Author: Carlton Hughes - Lighter Look at Writer's Life

Carlton Hughes wears many hats. By day, he’s a professor of communication at Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he does object lessons and songs with motions as Children’s Pastor of Lynch Church of God. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer whose work has appeared in numerous publications, including Chicken Soup for the Soul and several devotional books from Worthy Publishing—Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. Carlton and his wife Kathy have two sons, Noah and Ethan, both of whom recently flew out of the nest, and a daughter-in-law, Kersyn. He is on the planning committee for Kentucky Christian Writers Conference and is a year-round volunteer for Operation Christmas Child. He is represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary Agency. His book Adventures in Fatherhood, a 60-day devotional co-authored with Holland Webb, will release in April 2020 from Worthy/Ellie Claire.

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

‘Tis the Season of Thankfulness

lighter look at a writer's life

Even though Christmas items have been up in stores for what seems like forever, ’tis the season of . . . thankfulness! Lest we skip over Thanksgiving for the season of holly, mistletoe, and Christmas nougats (my favorite), I decided to make a list of reasons writers need to be thankful. So, here’s the list, and feel free to check it twice (Sorry, I couldn’t resist).

1. Writers can be thankful for the gift and talent of writing.

Some people are talented at singing, while others are gifted in working with their hands, like woodworking, mechanical tasks. Those are worthwhile things, but God made writers a special breed, wired to share His story on the page. It’s a wondrous gift and a serious responsibility.

2. Writers can be thankful for technology.

Even though it drives us absolutely CRAZY sometimes, technology makes writing easier in this day and age. Personally, I’m thankful I don’t have to fire up an oil lamp, write everything out in longhand, and then “snail-mail” huge manuscripts to prospective publishers. I’ve been a teacher so long that you probably could not read my handwriting anyway.

3. Writers can be thankful for websites like this one.

With a few clicks, we can get top-notch instruction on everything from where the commas go to how to write travel pieces. Speaking of commas, we can even read endless debates about whether to Oxford comma or not (For the record, I am firmly in the Team Oxford Camp).

4. Writers can be thankful for other writers.

I don’t know about you, but I found my “tribe” or “squad” or whatever you want to call it through writing. Our fellowship is unique, as we relate to the struggles, commiserate the rejections, and celebrate the successes. Bonus thankfulness for writers conferences, where we gather to consume caffeine while we are talking, laughing, and eating way too many sweets. Oh, yeah, we also take classes and discuss writing (most of the time . . . well, some of the time . . . well . . . ).

5. Writers can be thankful for readers.

Where would we writers be without our readers? You are the reason we do what we do. Your support and feedback are invaluable

Now you know my thankful list—what’s on yours?

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

At the Finish Line

lighter look at a writer's life

As I write this post, I am nearing the finish line.

I am not a runner—not by any means. If you see me running, you’d better run as well, because it probably means something big and mean is chasing me.

As far as I know, I’m fairly healthy and not nearing THAT finish line (Good Lord willing).

I am nearing the “Journal Finish Line.” A year or so ago in this space, I mentioned I was journaling. I found a “Three Year, Three Questions a Day Journal” in September 2019, purchased it on a whim, and started recording my thoughts every day.

Throughout my life, I have STARTED journaling projects but have NEVER EVER finished them. My shelves are lined with journals with a week or two of entries and then nothing else. I can look back at those and see TINY glimpses of life, but I never had the follow through to finish anything beyond a brief period of time.

 Now, I am nearly finished with a three-year record of my life. THREE YEARS?! I can’t believe it myself. And, oh, what a three-year period it was!

A couple of months after I started the journal, I had a major injury and was bedfast for months. Three weeks after I was mobile again and able to go back to work, the pandemic hit, with the lockdowns and fear. I finally had a book published . . . smack-dab In the middle of the pandemic.

With this nearly-completed journal, I have a record of my life during an interesting (sometmes agonizing?) period of history, something I can pass down to future generations. I can also say, “I finally DID IT!” That’s a great feeling for someone who tends to procrastinate and gets distracted easily.

What’s next? I have already purchased another journal, and I hope I can continue this practice. It is good to exercise my writing muscles and to release my thoughts and ideas on a daily basis.

Check back in three to five years to see if I am successful once again. For now, I am going to enjoy the view from the finish line.

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

Let’s Get Serious (For Once)

lighter look at a writer's life

I hope you, loyal readers of Almost An Author, will bear with me as I get serious this month.

I know it’s a big change. I’m not the most serious person in the world, either in person or on paper (on screen, for you techie people). I love to laugh and to make people laugh. Things are just different this month.

Right after I submitted last month’s blog post at the end of July, my region of Eastern Kentucky was hit with a devastating flood. The immediate area where I currently live was spared, but the neighboring county, where I grew up and where many family and friends live, got hit extremely hard.

People are calling it a 1,000-year flood. I call it a tragedy of epic proportions.

Lives were lost. Homes, businesses, and vehicles were washed away in a blink of an eye. Many schools were heavily damaged or outright destroyed. My college has a campus in the affected area, and one of our buildings was ravaged by the waters.

I have seen decimated places that I never, in my lifetime, thought would ever flood. I have driven by schools that were once vibrant places of learning but are now in ruins, with destroyed desks and equipment piled up in a muddy mess. At least one public library, a relatively new facility, was practically wiped out.

My heart goes out to these people—MY people.

My “teacher heart” aches for my fellow educators who had their classrooms decorated, stocked, and ready for students. Many now have no idea when they will be back in their schools and how they will replace what is lost. I could go on and on.

I know readers of this blog are more than “almost authors.” You are true writers, actual authors, and good, compassionate people. I treasure this community, as I do my hurting community back home.

As for a call to action, I ask, if you are a praying person, that you pray for these people and communities who have experienced unspeakable losses. God knows the situation, and He will restore . . . in His way, in His timing.

There are collection drives for books and supplies to restock schools and libraries in the affected areas. If you are so led to help, feel free to contact me at carltonwhughes@gmail.com, and I can connect you with the right organizations. Please do not feel obligated—only if you want to help.

Bubbly, funny Carlton will return next month. Stay tuned.

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

An Ode to ______ship

lighter look at a writer's life

Summer is ending, and that means teachers like me (and maybe you) are getting ready to go back to full-time work. To help me forget the impending return and to have some fun, let’s play a game of “Song Title Fill in the Blank.” After all, I love to include these types of questions when I prepare tests for my students. I will add I don’t own the rights to these songs and/or lyrics, and I’m not even sure I own the rights to my own name anymore. Here goes—try your best:

“I get by with a little help from my ___________________.”

“You gotta have ______________________.”

“___________________ are __________________ forever.”

“You’ve got a ___________________.”

“Thank you for being a ______________________.”

“People, let me tell you about my best ________________________.”

What’s the answer? Beagles? Robots? Chimpanzees?

Nope. It’s . . . wait for it . . .

Friends.

Yay, you got it! What does this have to do with writing? Well, everything. Where would I be without my writer friends? I am thankful for all my friends, but my writer friends hold a special place in my heart, as they can identify with a lot of different things I go through:

–They share the feeling that, when I have a deadline, I want to do anything (vacuum, wash dishes, build an addition onto the house) but write.

–They know the emotions that come when I write something that seems so bad, I want to throw the laptop in the road.

–They understand the feeling of revising a piece over and over, clicking “send,” and then realizing 15 more things I want to change.

–They remain friends even when I go into the “cocoon” to write for a big project with a looming deadline (or when I avoid the deadline by vacuuming, washing dishes, or building an addition onto the house).

–They cheer me on in my writing victories and commiserate with me in the rejections and failures.

–They attend writers conferences with me and hang out with me at the coffee shop even though I don’t drink coffee, laugh with me, and help me storm the lunch line in search of chocolate macaroon cookies (Oh, and attend classes with me—guess I should include that).

–They pray for me when I need help or when I am ready to quit.

So, thanks to all my writer friends—past, present, and future. If you see me at a writers conference, feel free to be my friend, but don’t expect me to drink coffee with you. Why don’t we do smoothies instead? Or chocolate macaroons?

After all, that’s what _____________ are for.            

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

Are You Missing Number Six?

lighter look at a writer's life

My daughter and I recently visited a discount bookstore–a writer’s happy place. It became even happier when we discovered that they were having a sale, all the books you could fit in a tote bag for one price.

We quickly made our way to the children’s section. I love writing for children and my daughter is a preschool teacher, searching for books for her classroom. We also had a third reason for making a bee line to the kiddy side of the store. I have a beautiful little fifteen-month-old grandniece, Janie, whom I love to spoil with books. So, we compiled our books, filled our bag, paid for our purchase and longingly sighed as we walked out of our happy place.

A few weeks later, we were going to visit Janie and we went through the books to choose a couple to take to her. One of them was a counting book with bright colors and cute illustrations, but, as I read the book, I realized that number six was gone. The page had been torn out, evidently ripped out by the previous owner who was not as civilized as my wonderful little grandniece. So, now we were faced with a decision. Do we discard the book or give it to her with the number six missing? We decided that the book was just too cute to discard, and, although Janie was too young to miss six now, in all her brilliance she would soon be able to instinctively know it was there.

Do you ever look at your writing and think your number six is missing? As you reread, your latest masterpiece, there is just something not right. I wonder how many unfinished stories, articles, manuscripts, or wonderful ideas are discarded because one small part was missing.

I’m not saying that the number six isn’t important. It’s just as important as all the others, but don’t abandon ship just yet because of one missing element.

One tip I use to find my missing number six is reading my writing aloud. Pretend you are reading to your target audience or that they are reading it. I also have someone else read my piece, if possible, and then read it aloud to me. This is also where writer buddies and critique groups come in. They are on the job of telling you how to fix that unaccounted for six.

The second tip is to ask your readers what is missing from your writing. They have an opinion, I promise you, and it just might be one that you could agree with and find helpful.

If we had discarded the counting book, we wouldn’t have seen Janie’s eyes light up when we gave it to her. Don’t let a missing number six keep you from lighting up someone’s world with your writing.

Sue Davis Potts is a freelance writer from Huntingdon, Tennessee. She is mother to her beautiful adult daughter, Jessa. She enjoys writing for both children and adults. Sue worked for years as a preschool teacher but feels most at home these days with other writers who speak her language. She has been published in local magazines, anthologies, Ideals, Southern Writer’s Magazine and Focus on the Family’s children’s magazines Clubhouse and Clubhouse, Jr.

She authored a children’s library book.  She is the author of a book of short motivations 101 Life Lessons From Uno (The One-Legged Duck) and coauthored The Priceless Life (The Diane Price Story). Both books are available on Amazon. Sue can be found on her website, www.suedavispotts.com.

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

Syrup, Anyone?

lighter look at a writer's life

One thing I always tell budding writers, both in my classes at school and in my role as a mentor:

Know the basics.

You cannot escape punctuation and grammar. Simple mistakes in these areas will mark you as an amateur and will probably land you in the trash pile.

I recently found an example of a time when I learned the importance of good spelling.

I cleaned out my old house when we moved to our current one a couple of years ago and stacked up some picture frames in a small nook (or was it a cranny? Not sure.). One of those frames featured multiple “openings” to display different pictures. When I moved it the other day, some of the pictures slipped out of place, and I noticed there was a document underneath the photos. Upon further inspection, I realized it was a certificate from my school days:

Jenkins Middle/High School Spelling Bee, Finalist: Carlton Hughes

It also had a date, which I won’t reveal on the grounds that I am very old and yet don’t want you to think I’m older than I really am.

ANYWAY, my mind drifted back . . . A LOT of years to that fateful night. I made it through several rounds, taking out fellow students from various grades, and was one of three contestants in the finals. It was a big deal! I had always prided myself on being a good speller, making A’s on every spelling test. You might say I was born for this moment. Being the BMOC 7th grader I was, I felt confident going into that last round—nervous but confident.

(NOTE: when I say I was a BMOC (big man on campus), I mean I was big in terms of WEIGHT and HEIGHT, not in COOLNESS.)

I was called to the podium, and the announcer gave me my word. I still remember to this day, after . . . A LOT of years.

“Carlton, your word is  . . . syrup.”

A-ha! Here’s a familiar word. At the time, I had waffles or pancakes for breakfast five or six days a week.

The happy ending would have been that I spelled the word correctly, placed first, won some money, and moved on to regional competition. My mother would maybe even make me my favorite homemade pancakes to celebrate, which I would drown in . . . you got it . . . SYRUP.

Instead, my answer went something like this: “Syrup . . . S-R-Y-U-P.”

Cue the loser sound effect. WAH WAH.

I was crushed. My mother came up to me afterwards and said, “you eat syrup nearly everyday for breakfast!” Yes, I knew that–didn’t know the spelling but knew about my morning food choices.

Good spelling is an important part of good writing; readers should be able to follow our plots and our flow without being distracted by a misspelled word. Personally, I tend to notice typos, grammar issues, and misspellings in books and in other publications, and it often draws me away from the story.

My ultimate advice: learn how to spell, and, when it doubt, look it up or leave it out. Now, pass the SYRUP.

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

Ready for Camp?

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Writers conference season is upon us, and I have all the feels. I’m excited about seeing old friends, nervous about pitching my work, and salivating at the thought of the food (especially the Blue Ridge Macaroons, which I have written about in this space before).

Here’s my theory: going to a writers conference is a lot like going to summer camp.

For a variety of reasons, I never went to camp as a child, but I have lived the experience through these adult events. I have drawn some parallels between camps and conferences, so here’s what you can look forward to:

  1. You make “fast friends” in a short amount of time. It’s amazing how deep the relationships get in a matter of days. I have made lifelong friends and prayer partners at various events, and I’m anxious to see who I will meet next.
  2. You have plenty of activity time. At writers conferences, we do not make friendship bracelets and birdhouses (Wouldn’t that be interesting, though?), but we do bond over shared classes, learning new things about our craft.
  3. You share meals together. I have never drunk “bug juice” at a writers conference, but tater tots do make the menu occasionally (just like camp). Even so, there is something special about “breaking bread” together, when we share stories, writing advice, and lots of great food (especially the aforementioned macaroons).
  4. You don’t sleep much. Not only are you in a new environment, but you are around like-minded people 24/7 for several days, making you want to spend as much time together as possible. Sleep is what the week after a conference or camp is for.

I could probably draw many more comparisons, but these are the highlights. I hope to see you at a conference/camp soon; step up and say “howdy” if you see me at one. We currently don’t have a secret handshake, but maybe we can work on that.

At least we don’t wear matching t-shirts. Oh, wait a minute . . .  

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

Win Friends, Impress People, Choke Up

lighter look at a writer's life

In this space before, I have mentioned the importance of meeting new people and developing new relationships at writers conferences. Where else can you find people like you—grownups who listen to the voices in their heads, write down what they say, and then try to publish it? You want to get to know these people, right? Or should that be write? 

First impressions are important but are seldom 100% accurate. After all, many of us try to “put on the dog” to impress people at these events. Trust me, that doesn’t work.

Several years ago, I attended a “Meet and Greet” at a conference. There were many friends in attendance, as well as guest speakers, editors, and faculty members. Definitely a place to put your best foot forward, and definitely not a place to embarrass yourself.

Well, I am always going to be . . .  me.

The event was held in a huge meeting room. One side featured tables and couches for “fellowship,” with the bookstore on the other side. A snack table full of finger foods and other goodies was located in the middle.

I first looked for bargains at the book tables, as my “mad book money” was extremely limited. One book that looked interesting was only $3—practically the only thing in my price range. The author had a box on his table for a giveaway of the book, so I entered my name, although, in these situations, I either (1) don’t win anything or (2) win something but I’m in the hallway talking and miss my name being called. I’m talented like that.

I made my way to the “fellowship” area and divided my time between groups of friends and editors and the publishers I wanted to impress. I looked over to the bookstore area and noticed people at the table with the book I wanted, so I figured I had better “seize the day” and push people out of the way to get my bargain. Not really, but, hey, I needed to get my book. I passed the snack table on my way and had to stop.

I’ve never been able to walk by a snack table and not partake of the treats. I scooped some peanuts onto one of the tiny plates and started munching as someone got on the P.A. system to announce the winner of the book giveaway. As a name was drawn, I started choking on a peanut.

I was hacking and coughing so hard a fellow nearby asked if I needed the Heimlich. I waved him off, right at the moment the winner was announced.

“Carlton Hughes!” I had finally won something, was finally present to hear my name—while I was coughing up a lung.

I walked (and hacked) to the makeshift stage to get my book and returned to the garbage can near the snack table, thinking that lung might come up any time. Someone told the book’s author I was a college professor, which was also the author’s profession, so he came over to ask numerous questions about my work. The conversation went something like this:

Him: “What courses do you teach?”

Me: “(Cough) Communications (Hack) and journalism.”

Him: “How long have you been teaching?”

Me: “(Hack) Over (Cough) 20 (Hack) years.”

Somehow, I don’t think I impressed him.

Some wise advice I learned the hard way: in writing or at writers conferences, don’t work so hard to impress others. Be yourself, have fun, and avoid the peanuts.

And you must be present to win.

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

Lest We Forget . . .

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I am Almost an Author “original member,” writing for this blog since it began; I am not even sure how many years have passed. From almost the beginning, my pieces have posted on the sixth of the month, reliable as Old Faithful.

An important part of blogging is promotion. Obviously, if you write something—that you are proud of, that took a lot of time and thought, that features a message you think should be heard—you want people to read it. The last thing you want is for that piece to float in cyberspace, with no one noticing it.

You would think, with me having a post on the sixth of the month for what seems like forever, I would remember to share and to promote it. You would think I would have it marked on the calendar and ingrained in my psyche. You would think that. You would be wrong.

I tend to forget the post nearly every month. When I remember, I share and share and share, but, by then, the post has already been floating out there, as mentioned above, for days, left to fend for itself with no boost from its author.

Take last month, for example. Like clockwork, my post was up on the sixth of the month, to which I was oblivious. Like sand in the hourglass, the days passed (Yes, I was raised with a grandmother who watched her stories every day). On the morning of the thirteenth, I woke up, and, out of the blue, it hit me: I had a post published LAST WEEK!

I got up, grabbed my laptop, and found my post. I shared it on all of my social media, and, much to surprise, it got a great response with many comments and shares. Imagine how much better it would have been if I had, you know—REMEMBERED THE DAY IT ACTUALLY POSTS.

Promotion is important, but I like to think God watches out for people with poor memories like mine. If He wants people to see a certain message, He will make it happen, even if it is a few days (or a week) late.

You might be reading this post on the sixth, or you might be reading it whenever I remember to share it. Either way, I hope you are blessed by it.

Now, where did I leave my keys?

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

MIstaken Identity

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The other day, I was reading a book from reputable publisher and noticed a mistake—a misspelling of a fairly simple word.

It was like nails on a chalkboard.

I got my start in copyediting and still serve as a student newspaper adviser, so I tend to notice EVERYTHING—a missing comma, a misplaced modifier, a misspelled word. These issues “stick out like a sore thumb,” as we like to say here in the mountains of Kentucky.

One of my favorite quotes is,

“Learn from the mistakes of others; you can never live long enough to make them all yourself.”

I would give you some attribution, but no one, not even Google, seems to know who said it. According to the “experts,” it could have been Groucho Marx, Eleanor Roosevelt, or Woody Allen. Wouldn’t that make a fine dinner party?

For years, I have taught the “new attendees” class at our statewide writers conference, and my main objective is to be transparent and to discuss my mistakes. And, oh, have I made mistakes!

Sometimes I think I am the “King of Writer Mistakes.” Here are some highlights:

  1. I have submitted things that weren’t ready for other eyes. I arrived at my first writers conference with a printed copy of what I thought was the next red-hot bestseller. I figured someone would offer me a contract by supper on the first day of the conference, and I would return to the event the next year as the keynote speaker, with my published book in tow. Well, that STILL hasn’t happened. I finally realized I needed more training and more information about the industry. Many, many years after that first conference, I am still learning.
  2. I have approached editors/publishers/agents without a proper pitch and plan. At my first big-time conference, I made appointments and had no idea what to do during them. I had no one-sheet and no planned pitch. I’m sure those people look back and chuckle. With many conferences under my belt now, I realize the importance of pitch and planning (Hey, that sounds like a book—don’t steal my idea!).
  3. I have chosen not to follow up on offers to send in my work. Yes, I have been one of those people, who got an invitation to send samples to an editor but didn’t follow through. I’m still kicking myself. I have allowed fear and a sense of unworthiness keep me from connecting. One particular (unnamed) person intimidated me so much I almost quit writing. I have realized editors, agents, and publishers won’t actually eat you, and rejection won’t kill you.
  4. Speaking of rejection, I have let it keep me from pursuing my goals. One year I had a promising “bite” from an editor. I submitted my work and almost immediately received a stinging rejection. I didn’t write for months after that. I  have learned rejection is part of a writer’s life, and I can’t let it get me down.

So learn from my mistakes, and keep writing and pressing on toward your goal.

God’s strength is made perfect in our weaknesses, and I am certainly living proof.

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

Glass Half Full or Half Empty?

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Several years ago, I noticed the trend of people having a “word for the year.” Especially in Christian writing circles, people would use this word to guide their goals and interactions for the year.

I have tried coming up with an official word of the year (even praying for one), with mixed results. One year I felt, deep in my heart, my word was “connection,” and then I ended up staying home most of the year with health problems and other issues. I did connect with the tv remote and lots of chocolate, though.

Recently (as I write this post toward the end of December 2021), I have been reviewing the past year and thinking about the next one. I am not saying it’s my OFFICIAL WORD OF THE YEAR, but here is what I have been pondering: perspective.

The definition of perspective is “a point of view, a particular attitude toward or way of regarding something.” That hits me in the gut.

A few days ago, I was getting something out of one of my kitchen cabinets. A can of food came falling out, and I felt frustrated. Two years ago, my wife and I moved to a much smaller home with a lot less storage. Why do I have to cram everything in like this? Why do I have more room?

I had a catch in my spirit. I live in Eastern Kentucky, and, right before Christmas, a devastating tornado rolled through the Western part of our state. Many people lost their homes and all their possessions. Those folks would probably love to have a house like mine, small as it is.

Right there at the kitchen counter, I repented and thanked God for a roof over my head and abundant food in my cabinets. It is all about perspective.

What does this have to do with writing? EVERYTHING. How often do we lament that we aren’t making more progress, not getting those big contracts and assignments? What if we chose to be thankful for the things we do get to write? Even for the small, seemingly inconsequential pieces? Even if a smaller piece touches one person, it is worth it.

Changing perspective often encourages thankfulness. Did I sign a big book contract in 2021? No. Did I make some valuable connections and write some smaller pieces for different outlets? Yes. I’m truly thankful for the opportunities I was given in 2021 and look forward to what’s in store for 2022. I’m trying not to lament over the things that didn’t happen.

Perspective. Could it be THE word of the year? I guess time will tell.

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

Ordinary People, Extraordinary Callings

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“Why me, Lord?”

This question was something I often asked when I first felt called to write, and I still ask that question from time to time. Why would God call ME to write for Him when he made Max Lucado, Rick Warren, Karen Kingsbury, and countless others who are WAY more talented than me?

I am a fairly ordinary guy. I’m middle aged . . . ish . . . with the gut that comes along with that. But I like cookies more than broccoli, so whatever. I go to work, eat, watch TV, sleep. I find typos in books, on signs, and on social media posts and get aggravated about them (oops, that means I’m a writer).

In studying for my children’s church lesson for this week, I had an “A-HA” moment: God specializes in using ordinary people to do extraordinary things to fulfill His purposes.

Take Mary, for example. By all accounts, she was just a normal girl, dedicated to serving God and pledged to marry a regular guy, yet God sent a messenger from Heaven to tell her she was THE chosen one to be the mother of His Son. Mary was quite flabbergasted at first but accepted her calling, saying “let it be to me according to Your word.”

An ordinary girl doing an extraordinary thing for the Lord.

Then there was Joseph. Can you imagine what this carpenter felt when his fiancé told him what was happening? He wanted to “put Mary away” until God sent His messenger to clarify Joseph’s mission as Jesus’ earthly father.

A simple man with an extraordinary calling from God.

You may feel God is calling you to write something extraordinary, to step out of your comfort zone. The key is to say “Yes” like Mary and Joseph did. A few years ago, I felt God calling me to write devotions.

Who me? I’m not a devotional writer! I have never written anything like that! I eventually said “Yes,” and look what God has done! A book and several other featured devotionals later, I can reflect on how God has used me in this area.

An ordinary guy writing stuff with an extraordinary purpose for God.

Feeling ordinary today? Just say “Yes” to the One who designed you for extraordinary things. Like Mary, when God calls, respond with “let it be to me according to Your word.”

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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Pray and Submit

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The text came while my wife and I were traveling home from an out-of-town doctor’s appointment.

“I’m doing a new book, and, for the first time, I am open to submissions from men. Submit something!”

My friend has edited a series of books about “Warrior Women,” focusing on various aspects of Christian life. I had heard about them and seen pictures of the covers but had never considered writing for one of the books, as the previous editions had been stories about women, by women.

My friend proceeded to give me the theme and the deadline, and I told her I would think and pray about it and try to submit something. Over the next few weeks, I got caught up in the busyness of life—work, church commitments, etc.—and forgot about the project.

I finally remembered . . . on deadline day. I got home from a long, hard day at my job and thought about how I would word a message to my friend, telling her I was not going to be able to submit anything. I hate disappointing people, but I did not see any other choice. How could I put something together this late in the process? When I need to do some serious thinking or praying, I take a walk in my neighborhood.

I set off on the windy country road and started talking to God. As I walked and talked, an idea came to mind, like an instant download from above. By the time I reached the end of the road and turned around to head home, the ideas were firmly in my mind. I hurried home, grabbed my laptop, and hammered out a story with the “Warrior Woman” theme.

Like most any writer would do, I finished and then walked away for a while, letting the story stew in my mind, going back to it for a quick revision after a while. At the zero hour, I clicked “send” on the submission to my friend. She was thrilled and even asked for photos to accompany the story.

The moral to the story? Never say never on a project until you talk to God. Prayer sharpened my focus and gave me the final push for an idea and to finish the piece. Is prayer a “magic pill” or a “free pass” to writing? Absolutely not. But, if I am pursuing God and talking to Him regularly, my writing will flow from that communication.

Carlton

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate–all chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul; The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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You Never Know

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I love writing conferences. If you have been reading this blog for very long, you already know that, because I have written about them many, many times.

I love the camaraderie of those with like minds. I love learning new things about writing and the publishing industry. I love eating in the cafeteria and pretending it is summer camp with all my friends.

Today I am thinking about the opportunities provided during the one-on-one appointments with editors, publishers, and the like. I love those, too, for you never know what’s going to happen and when God is going to open a door from a seemingly random encounter.

At the conference I attended this year, I signed up for two appointments with people I really wanted to talk to. SCORE! The rule with this conference states you’re allowed two appointments during the initial sign-up period—which is a free-for-all, by the way. It’s a good thing it’s a Christian conference, or else there would be pushing, shoving, and cage matches.

After that initial wrestling match—er, signup period—you are allowed to go back the next morning for additional appointments if there are open slots left. Not one to ignore an extra opportunity, I always go back to check the appointment sheets. This year, I signed up for my third appointment with a writer/editor I didn’t really know, but, when she introduced herself at the group meeting, she said she was looking for parenting articles.

I recently co-authored a devotional book, Adventures in Fatherhood, about . . . PARENTING, so I thought, why not talk to this person?

It turned out to be a divine appointment. At our meeting, she grabbed my book and screamed “I LOVE IT!” We discussed her editorial needs, and she suggested I send copies of the book to contacts at an organization she once worked for and still does some consulting. I won’t mention the name of the organization, but they do have a keen focus.

Back home, I stood in the valley of decision. Did I really want to send someone a book out of the blue? Wouldn’t that seem a bit weird? Have I ever denied that I am weird? Don’t answer that last question.

I took the plunge and sent the books, because you never know. That phrase has become my theme for seeking writing opportunities: it just might be a God-thing. You never know unless you try.

After I put the copies in the mail, my school year started, and my schedule was full. I had forgotten I had sent the books until, a few weeks later, I got an email from a representative of the organization. He and his staff LOVED the book and wanted to discuss freelance opportunities with me and my co-author.

Say what? A person gets a random book and likes it? And wants me to write some more? DOUBLE SCORE!

Lesson learned: take the opportunity. Try, even it seems random. After all, nothing is random with God.

You never know.

Carlton

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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Read All About It

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I had a post due today, but I was reading.

I mean, for a writer, isn’t that a good excuse? If we are going to be good writers and hone our craft, shouldn’t we be reading? Isn’t that the point?

I know . . . it is just an excuse, but it is a good one. A friend of mine recently released a book, and I dug into it this weekend. Today is Saturday. I read from the evening into the night on Thursday and Friday. I did not get to read during the daytime hours because of that little thing called MY DAY JOB. If I could have taken the book with me on those days, I would have (Shhhh, do not tell my boss.).

I have read most of the day today and am almost finished with the book (which is wonderful, by the way). I decided to take a break to rest my eyes. In a quiet moment, I thought, Oh, I have a post due.

What to write about? Reading! After all, as a kid, I learned READING IS FUNDAMENTAL. What I would really like to talk about is reading to support a friend.

I know what it’s like to be a writer, to open that vein and release everything on paper. I know what it’s like to be a published writer, to wonder (1) if anyone is reading the book and (2) if anyone is enjoying the book.

The writing community, especially the Christian writing community, is a big family, and family members support each other. When family members face rejection and have a hard time, we need to be there to cheer them up or to be a shoulder to cry on. When family members experience success and get published, we need to celebrate with them . . . and read their stuff.

I cannot say I am perfect in doing this. Like many of you, my “To-Be-Read” pile threatens to overtake my bedstand, and many of those titles are books from my friends. Slowly but surely, I am making my way through them and will even try to leave reviews online, if possible. More importantly, I will reach out to them to let them know (1) I read their books and (2) I enjoyed their work (My friends are great writers, I just know it).

That’s the least a friend—no, family member—can do.

(I just wrote that line hours after I wrote the rest of this post; hey, I had to finish the book!)

Carlton

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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Conferences over, Now What?

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I’ve been to two writers conferences (one in-person, one virtual) in the last few weeks, and, boy, is my brain tired.

The in-person conference was literally a breath of fresh air, as I emerged from the quarantine/lockdown cocoon into my true form as a social butterfly. It was great seeing so many friends in one place and catching up after a long two years away. Oh yeah, there were classes and appointments as well, which were all valuable.

I didn’t get to participate in all of the sessions of the online conference due to some different concerns, but what I did get to hear was extremely helpful. I got practical tips for continuing my writing journey and inspiration for what lies ahead.

Now comes the FUN part: the conference follow-ups. I’m SO excited and SO ambitious about the work ahead. I believe I have mentioned before that sarcasm is my love language . . . along with chocolate, but that’s another blog post.

I always have good intentions: return those emails; write those new proposals; respond to those invitations to write blogs, articles, etc. But then life happens. There’s stuff to do for my day job; housework; people to help in my own backyard. Plus, all those games of Spider Solitaire and Word Crossy aren’t going to play themselves, you know.

In the past, I have been the King of Procrastination, but I am making progress. I have already made email contact for a prospective blog writing assignment (Shhhhh, don’t tell the A3 people!) and worked on two different proposals. I once heard that editors don’t hear back from over half of the people they meet at conferences, and I don’t want to be in that number. I want to be that one who makes contact and follows through, even if it means rejection. I won’t know until I try, right?

I’m setting aside tomorrow to finish those proposals and to make some more email contacts. Right after the Andy Griffith Show marathon.

Old habits die hard, people.

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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Over-Preparing?

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As I write this, I’m getting ready to attend my first in-person writers conference in two years. I have been so busy planning and packing, I nearly forgot to write this post. I am thankful for social media reminders!

I feel a bit like an alien, preparing to land on a new planet. Can anyone relate? It has been so long since I have been able to gather with others and socialize, I don’t quite know how to act.

When I started packing, I selected enough clothes to spend about two weeks away (Did I mention I’ll be gone for three days?). After I weeded down the clothes, I started thinking about the additional things I would need, like notepads, pens, my computer, and, of course, snacks. Again, I over-thought everything, so I needed to cut down to a manageable number of items. At the rate I was going, I would have looked like the Beverly Hillbillies trucking down the highway with all sorts of things hanging off the vehicle.

Finally, I thought about those minor details—one sheets, writing samples, business cards. Actually, those are IMPORTANT things! Like I said, it’s been a looonnng time since I have attended such an event, so I’m bit rusty.

The more I have thought about this conference, the more I realize the truth of what I tell first-time attendees when I teach the “Newbie” class at another event. The most important thing about a writers conference: the people.

The relationships you make with the people at a conference are vital, everlasting. Book projects come and go, but your friendships will last much longer. I found my agent by hanging out during breaks (we were friends long before I became his client). I have bonded over cookies in the cafeteria. I have spent nights laughing and catching up over ice cream. (Yes, most of my special moments include food). I met the co-author of my book in the appointment sign-up room. I wish I could list all of the friends I have made at writers conferences, but there isn’t enough space.

These friends not only understand what it’s like to be a writer (and to struggle at times), but they have stood by me through the ups and downs of life.

So, I am not going to worry so much about the clothes, the electronics, and the writing stuff (though those things are important) as I prepare for the conference. I am going to anticipate hugs (!) and special times with my friends.

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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What Do You Write?

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It’s almost SWCS, or Summer Writers Conference Season, for those of you who don’t know. I attended my first writers conference years ago and have attended many of them since. At that first one, I learned something right away.

When you sit down next to anyone at a writers conference, there will always be a basic first question.  You might think it would be, “What is your name?” Not so, because you’re most likely going to be wearing some form of ungainly nametag, so that information will be clear.

No, the first question will be: “What do you write?”

I have been asked that question when I sat down for meals, classes, and for a break outside. New friends, old friends, famous authors, and not-so-famous authors have inquired this information from me. I have probably even been asked this question in the bathroom, although I don’t remember a specific instance (Plus, men’s rooms at writers conference tend to be less populated than ladies rooms).

Last year, I taught at the virtual Kentucky Christian Writers Conference, and I was amazed at the discussions in the chat feature. Attendees interacted much as they would have at a live conference, and people still constantly asked . . . you got it . . . “What do you write?”

As I gear up to attend such events this year (one virtual, one live), I have thought of some creative, off-the-wall answers to the classic question, just to spice things up a bit. So here goes.

“What do you write?”…

“Feline nonfiction novels.”

“Amish speculative fiction. Watch out, Martha, there’s something in the butter!”

Look around suspiciously and whisper, “I can’t talk about it in public.”

“Your Best Quarantine Life Now: Changing Your Pajama Pants More Than Twice a Week.”

“Amish romantic suspense. Watch thy back, Levi.”

“A new devotional book, 365 Days with Teenagers. 100 stories about sleeping in, 100 stories about not cleaning your room, 100 stories about junk food. I don’t know about the other 65—I’ll do that tomorrow. Or someday.”

“A Quarantine Cookbook: Making Meals Out of Butter Crackers, Cheese, Peanut Butter, and Old Chocolate Chips Found in the Cabinet.”

“Amish Dystopian Teenage Romance: No Hunger Games with MY Bread, Sarah.”

“I don’t want to tell, because I’m afraid someone will steal my idea. But I have printed out my work in three hardback notebooks and have them with me.”

Hopefully you can tell my tongue is firmly in my cheek. On a serious note, if you do attend a writers conference and are asked this question, be yourself and talk confidently about your work.

Martha and Levi would not want it any other way.

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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Are You Ready for Success?

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I read an article recently about actors that are great at what they do but not so great at being a successful person. They let their fame go to their head; they became entitled, hard to work with, and rude. More than likely, success found them before they were ready.

So, how will you be when you are successful?

Have you ever thought about it? If not, why?

You have prayed to be successful, haven’t you? If you have prayed for success, have faith that it’s going to happen. Be like the little boy who prayed for rain and went home to get his umbrella. Make sure you are ready when it comes.

I have had the honor of meeting quite a few successful writers, and I discovered that they are some of the nicest, most unselfish people in the world. They are willing to share their time and knowledge to help others on their writing journey. They love to sign autographs and talk to their fans about their books. They know how to win joyfully and lose gracefully. They celebrate the accomplishment of others even when that person wins an award they were up for too.

So, are you ready for success? You don’t have to wait until you reach the big time to find out. Are you helping others on the way? There will always be a newbie at a conference looking for a friendly face or someone who needs encouragement to keep plugging away.

You may not be where you want to be, but you might be the most successful writer someone knows. I was recently contacted by a lady who lives in my town because she saw my picture on the back of a book I co-authored. She said she had been praying for a writer to talk to about a project she was working on. She received the book as a gift, and when she looked at the back, there I was, a real writer in her own hometown.

I spent a few minutes on the phone with her, answering questions. When I realized that I didn’t have all the answers she needed, I contacted a writer friend and found the answers for her.

Writing is looking ahead for new opportunities and reaching back to help others when you are successful. After all, isn’t doing what you love and lending a helping hand a good definition of success?

Sue Davis Potts is a freelance writer from Huntingdon, Tennessee. She is mother to her beautiful adult daughter, Jessa.

Sue enjoys writing for both children and adults. She worked for years as a preschool teacher but feels most at home these days with other writers who speak her language. She has been published in local magazines, anthologies, Ideals, Southern Writer’s Magazine and Focus on the Family’s children’s magazines Clubhouse and Clubhouse, Jr.

She authored a children’s library book and her book of short motivations 101 Life Lessons from Uno (The One-Legged Duck) and the book she co-authored The Priceless Life: The Diane Price Story is available on Amazon. Sue can be found on Facebook and her website, www.suedavispotts.com

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Dream Fulfilled . . . Now What?

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Several years ago, God placed a dream in my heart to write. I have always considered myself a good writer, dating back to eighth grade when my English teacher noticed my talent and asked me to be a reporter for the high school newspaper.

Do you know what an ego boost it was for a chubby, awkward 13-year-old being asked to join the “big leagues” of the Jenkins High School Review? HUGE.

From that point, the ink was in my blood. I became editor of that paper as a sophomore, continued through high school, and majored in journalism in college. I then took my first detour.

With no major market newspapers or tv stations lining up at my door after my college graduation, I went to graduate school and began the path to becoming a college professor. I don’t regret that decision, and the massive volumes of research writing certainly sharpened my skills.

In my teaching career, I have been a newspaper adviser, mentoring young writers. When I moved to a new college in the early 90s, I even resurrected my own writing and became a newspaper columnist. That lasted for a while, until life happened–another detour.

Several years later, after I became a Christian, God called me to write and planted that aforementioned dream—specifically, a dream to have my own book published. At times, it seemed like a pipe dream, but, after many false starts and rejection letters, I finally got an agent and had a book traditionally published, with my co-author Holland Webb.

After years of anticipation of seeing my name on the cover of the book, it was a surreal experience to hold that book in my hands. IT FINALLY HAPPENED!

Then the pandemic hit, with quarantines and lockdowns one-month before the release date. My co-author and I faced many challenges, but we adjusted and learned the ins and outs of marketing a book during a once-in-a-lifetime national medical emergency.

It’s been nearly a year since the dream came true, so now what? What is one to do once the dream is fulfilled and the book is in hand? Continue writing, of course.

Is it really that easy? Yes.

I love watching basketball and following my favorite teams. It’s such a thrill when one of my teams wins a big game, such a great feeling. But then the coach has to bring the players back down to earth to get ready for the next game. It’s the same in writing. The thrill of seeing a book published is an awesome feeling, but then it’s time to get back to work on the next project.

So, it’s time for to gear up for the next game, to get back on the horse, jump back in the ring.

Hmm . . . maybe my next book can be about cliches . . . stay tuned.

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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What to Write?

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It was Sunday. I woke up fairly early (that’s 8 or 8:30 for me) and looked at the date. January 24.

What a minute—what? I was shaken fully awake by the realization that the next day, January 25, was Almost An Author Blog Post Deadline Day.

Cue the music . . . duh-duh-duh!

What am I going to do? What I am going to write about? Will they fire me by ending a sentence with preposition?

I got up and wrote a thrilling, deep post.

Okay, that’s not true. I got up, got dressed, ate breakfast, headed off to church. The mysterious, “what’s it gonna be” post was in the back of my mind, but I concentrated on the worship and the message. The thought that I had a blog post due in 24 hours drifted away.

I came home, ate lunch, and settled in my recliner. That’s when the thought came back.

Oh, no, A3 deadline next day. WHAT AM I GOING TO WRITE ABOUT?

I didn’t grab my laptop to punch out perfect prose. I did what I usually do when I am at a loss for words and ideas: I took a walk. As I strolled down my country road, I felt led to look up.

Some background: I live in the mountains of Eastern Kentucky, one of the most beautiful places on earth, but I often take it for granted. On this particular day, it was a bit chilly and overcast, not ideal for scenery with the barren winter, but I looked up.

That’s when I saw it, a glimpse of God’s amazing beauty. The mountains were there above me in all their majesty, still snowcapped from a weather system earlier in the week. The scene was framed by  pine trees that were full along with some of the bare trees mixed in, intertwining to highlight the artistry.

I drank in the scene for a few minutes, and, of course, took a picture with my phone (Yes, I am THAT person). I continued my walk and felt a catch in my spirit—something to write about (There’s that preposition thing again).

My advice to you, writer stuck for words and ideas, is to look up. Sometimes, stepping away from the work and looking up to see the beauty around us are what we need. For many of us that can be hard to do, but the reward is great.

God’s beauty is there if we seek it, making it possible to share with others, whether it be through a painting, a photo, or words on the page.

It may even be through a blog post that was almost late.

Editor’s Note: Wonderful advice, but I’ll be watching for those prepositions! (Actually, it’s perfectly acceptable grammar to end a sentence with a preposition. So don’t worry.)

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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What Was Your Childhood Dream?

lighter look at a writer's life

“God hears and remembers your childhood dreams.”

I read this phrase on a social media post by author Angela Hunt, and it resonated with me. The more I think about it, “story” has been a part of my life since childhood.

I was an only child, so, when my cousins weren’t around, I had to entertain myself. I would spend hours in my room alone, acting out stories with my stuffed animals and action figures. I loved comic books and would often finish one and then dream up scenarios to continue the plotline. When my cousins were around, I often led our pretend adventures (one that involved us using my closet as the Batcave didn’t end well, but that’s a long, complicated story for another time).

My storytelling tendencies continued into my middle and high school years, as, when I was an eighth grader, I was asked to join the high school newspaper staff. I became editor as a sophomore and continued through to graduation. I also appeared in some plays along the way, as my outgoing (a.k.a. loud) nature did not go unnoticed.

When it came time for college, I decided to double-major in radio-tv broadcasting and print journalism. I already had a lot of experience with print, and I figured television would be a good outlet for my dramatic tendencies and storytelling. I was active with the college station, hosting talk shows, doing news reports, and serving as the weatherman. I still can’t tell a cold front from a cold snap, but it was fun at the time.

College graduation day came, and tv stations did not beat down my door. The audacity! Dan Rather had nothing to worry about.

I ended up going to graduate school and eventually became a college professor. Not the path I had planned, but, looking back, God knew what He was doing. The subjects I teach—Interpersonal Communication, Basic Public Speaking, Journalism—allow a “ham” like me to be the center of attention to tell lots of stories as they relate to the curriculum. Engaging with students through story has been a joy from day one.

God wasn’t quite through yet, though. Several years ago, He called me to write for Him, to tell His story in my unique, often wacky, way. Then, during the darker days of 2020 pandemic lockdown (during which my first book was published, by the way), God birthed something new, harking back to the dreams of my childhood and formative years. Since I couldn’t connect in person with the kids in my children’s ministry, I started doing videos and posting them on social media.

I developed some truly crazy characters who tell the stories of Scripture in their own unique way. I initially shared the videos on our church’s social media pages, but one day I shared one on my personal page. The response was phenomenal, something only God could do. My stories now reach as many adults as children, and my childhood “story dreams” have come true, in a totally different way than what I had planned.

God didn’t forget that only child with the overactive imagination. He hasn’t forgotten you, either. Just don’t use your closet as the Batcave.

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

National (What?) Month

lighter look at a writer's life

As you are reading this, it is December, the last month in the slog that has been 2020. Many of you have just finished Nanowrimo, or National Novel Writing Month (for those of you who have eluded this illustrious event).

Writers around the country commit to writing an ENTIRE NOVEL during the month of November. There’s even a website, an accountability program, and more. Writing can be stressful, especially in these times, but, hey, let’s write a book in an entire month!

November is typically a hectic month for me, which I’ll discuss below, and that’s why I have never participated in Nanowrimo. Until this year. Sort of.

I have written some fiction, but my current focus has been devotional writing. I have been kicking around some ideas for new devotional books, so I decided to work on one of those during November. I guess you could call it “Nadevowrimo.” Has a certain ring to it, don’t you think? Seriously, I don’t think I’ll be starting a new trend any time soon, but it worked for me, for a while.

I figured if I wrote one devotion every day except Sunday (I need rest, y’all!), I’d have a good start on a new book by the end of November. The commitment of writing one piece a day would certainly help my discipline, wouldn’t it?

I am a teacher, and November tends to be “crunch time” as we barrel toward the end of the fall semester. Add virus concerns to that mix, and it has been even more intense, as my administration encouraged teachers to finish as much of our class work as we could by Thanksgiving break.

I am the Operation Christmas Child (OCC) coordinator at my church and one of the county coordinators in my area. At the beginning of November, I supervise the packing of a ton of shoeboxes, and then, the week before Thanksgiving, I oversee a drop-off center, where other churches, groups, and individuals bring their boxes to us. My fellow church members and I are then responsible for collecting them and transporting them to the Regional Drop-Off Center an hour away.

So, I wrote religiously for the first two weeks of November. Then OCC Week hit simultaneously with the new guidelines for wrapping up my semester at school, and what happened to Nadevowrimo? It flew out the window.

You know what? That’s okay.

For two weeks, I was disciplined. For two weeks, I got a lot of writing done. As I write this post, there is a week and a half left in the month, and I plan to “climb back on the horse” next week. Instead of beating myself up about missing some days, I’m celebrating what I did accomplish and looking forward.

Another thing about this experiment: I didn’t particularly like the stuff I wrote. There were times I wanted to close up the laptop, quit writing, and eat a package of cookies. Then I realized: programs like Nanowrimo are all about FIRST DRAFTING, getting the thoughts out of the mind and on the page. For me, it wasn’t about quality or even quantity. It was about roughing out those ideas to give me plenty to work with when I am ready to complete the project.

Now, I still want to eat an entire package of cookies, but only for fuel to give the strength to keep writing.

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

Journaling, Journaling Through the Year

lighter look at a writer's life

Happy Journalversary to me!

Yes, I made up a word, but, as I write this post, it’s a very special occasion.

One year ago today, my wife and I were in Morehead, Kentucky for the Cave Run Storytelling Festival, an event I love (and missed this year). During one of the breaks, we drove into town—which is my old stomping grounds, where I attended college—to shop at CoffeeTree Books. This store brings back many memories, as it is located in a redesigned movie theater, where I saw film after film as a college student. So I enjoyed two of my favorite things: shopping for books and reminiscing about the Big ‘80s.

Anyway, I browsed book after book, and one caught my eye—One List a Day, A Three-Year Listography Journal. I looked through it and was intrigued. One question a day, asking you to list three things. That first day was “three decisions you have recently made.”

I could do this.

I checked the price and put the journal down to look at other areas of the store, but I kept going back to it. I finally decided to take the plunge and buy it before I changed my mind.

Back at the hotel, I answered that first question. The next morning, the second. And on and on. For the last year, I have kept up with the journal. Sure, I have a missed a few days here and there, but I have always caught up. THIS IS HUGE.

Now, during this period, I was laid up with an injury for two months and lived through the “COVID/Quarantine” experience. But that doesn’t dampen my achievement: I, Carlton Hughes, have journaled for ONE YEAR.

I have started and stopped countless journals through the years. I would normally follow a familiar routine: buy a neat-looking journal. Get a fancy pen. Get up each morning for one to two weeks to write in the journal. Get busy with life. Wake up late a few days. Rush to get to work/meet church obligations/do things with family. Forget the journal and eventually relegate it to the back of a bookshelf, never to be opened again.

I have quite a collection.

With my current venture, I learned that journaling, even this simple one with only three things each day, keeps creative juices flowing. I realized I had set the bar too high in previous attempts, thinking I had to write a novella of my life each day.

Plus, since I’m into the second year, it’s interesting (albeit a bit scary) to look back at how I was thinking a year ago. So far this year, my answers have reflected the current crazy world situation, so, though it is not fun now, it will be fun to look back on it in several years.

So, in the tradition of my one list a day journal, I will ask you a question: what three things come to mind when you think about journaling? Go ahead . . . I’ll wait.

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.

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A Lighter Look at the Writer's Life

Write What You Know

lighter look at a writer's life

They say to write what you know.

Have you ever wondered who they are? I think they are the same people who tell us to eat our vegetables, to use signal lights, and to not wear white after Labor Day.

Anyway, whoever they are, writing what you know is good advice. If it is a subject in which you have experience, you are more likely to be confident in your work, and your audience will likely trust you more.

For example, I could never be the author of Basic Car Repair or Technical Stuff and You. I am totally inept when it comes to such things, but, if you need advice on tools or repairs, ask my wife. I can write you a book with funny remarks in it; she can build you something. It’s how we roll.

I have been thinking of writing about what I know in these current weird times in which we are living. Some possible titles might include:

Herding Cats: Teaching Virtual Classes to High School and College Students

The Spider Solitaire King

Tubbo: An Easy Guide to Gaining Weight During a Pandemic

Oh, I Wanna Hug Somebody

Procrastination, How I Love Thee, Let Me Count the Ways . . . Tomorrow

Just One More Zoom Meeting

Sweatin’ Under My Mask

Amish Alien Abductions

(I actually made that last one up. Seriously. I know nothing.)

On a semi-serious note, writing what you know can be an effective way to reach a specific audience by sharing your experiences and knowledge. I recently co-authored a devotional, Adventures in Fatherhood, with my friend Holland Webb. We wrote stories about rearing our children and what God taught us along the way. The book has two unique perspectives.

I approached the stories from the point of view of a married man who raised his two sons alongside his wife; Holland is an adoptive single father. I could not write about raising kids on my own, as I know nothing about that, while Holland doesn’t know any other way. Hopefully different people can relate to “what we know.”

I recently received a 30-Year Service Award at the college where I teach. It will come as no surprise that I am “stewing over” ideas for a devotional about . . . you got it, teaching. It’s what I know.

So, if you are stuck about what to write, look around you. What experiences do you have that can speak to others’ lives? You might be impressed at the ideas that come.

Now, I need to get back to work. I have stories to write and classes to teach, and those Solitaire games are not going to play themselves.

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate–all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.