Farix-Forever

Catching Up

2009-11-16T21:13:00.003-05:00

So...I've been gone for just shy of forever. It became very obvious to me that before I start posting like I used to, I should probably find out what has been going on with everyone this past year. So, without further ado, I present

THE QUESTIONNAIRE OF DOOM!!!!!!

I will put my answers in parentheses, but in the comment section, I would like you all to answer for yourselves. I know it's just a start, but I've been gone for so long we can't possibly cover everything in one post! =3

1. How old did you turn on your last birthday? What grade/year of high school/college are you in this school year? (I turned 15 back in March, and I'm a sophomore in high school this year.)

2. What did you do over this past summer? (I went to Outer Banks, NC with my mom and brother, went up to Northern Virginia to visit my boyfriend, spent 12 days living on the campus of UVA for a gifted learning camp [my favorite part of summer!], moved, and did some writing.)

3. If you are a writer, what project/goal are you currently working on? Are you working on more than one thing? (I'm working on three things at once. My original novel is finished but still needs a little editing, I have a trilogy started, and I also started another standalone novel. Lots of work but very worth it!!)

4. How is the YCF doing? If you are a new member, tell me a little about yourself! I'd love to get to know you! (I can't answer this question for myself...)

5. Read any good books lately? (I've been a little short on things to read lately. Recently read the Gemma Doyle Trilogy...good but a little strange. I read this book called Daughter of the Forest awhile back...that one is now on my favorites list. It's really, really great! Well written, excellent plot yet unpredictable. Props to the author of that one!)

6. What has God been doing in your life in the past year? (Well, I don't know how many of you I've told about the trouble I'd been having with my dad since my parents divorced, but God at last delivered me from that dark valley on December 5th, 2008. Almost a year later, I am so humbly happy to say that he has healed me up from a lot of that and I am now in a place where I'm starting to forgive him. Now that I don't have to focus primarily on just staying emotionally stable enough to live another day, I have been able to look at my life in a whole new way. With God's help, I have become a better person...I now take the expression "trial by fire" very literally. If you are in a hard time in your life, remember that God's ways are always better than ours and that we experience trials to refine our faith like gold! Coming out of this trial, I feel like someone who has been trapped in a cave all their life and is being led outside into the light for the first time--it's a little overwhelming, but it's so beautiful. I have been able to make new friends, get more involved in church, grow closer to the Lord, and devote more of myself to my family. Thank you Jesus for my freedom!!)

7. What is the best thing that has happened to you in the past year? (Aside from being granted my freedom, I met (summer '08) and fell in love with (summer '09) the most loving, caring, brilliant, selfless, pure young man on the face of the earth. [Okay, so I might be a little biased, but he is in my opinion =)] The Lord has really given me a blessing in my boyfriend. He has been really, really good to me and for me, and has done nothing but build me up, encourage me, and be there for me no matter what. I thank God for him every single day.)

8. What is the most interesting/insane thing you've done in the past year? (I climbed a 150 foot lighthouse!!!! It was breathtaking, and I'm not just talking about the 214 stairs!)

9. Anybody moved in the past year? Moved schools? Moved into a new house? Moved out of state? (I moved into a new house this past summer. I didn't move very far though, just 20 minutes or so. We moved the day after I got back from my twelve day camp at UVA. I have two words to describe that experience. Utter. Torture. Imagine getting home after being away for that long only to find out that you can't even sleep in your own bed! We made it through though, and the new house is great.)

10. What would be the first thing to pop into your head if I said, "Say something random!" (colored ink cartridges are headache-inducing!)

Well, there you have my questionnaire of doom! Enjoy!
Never Alone,
Shelby Marie

Not All Those Who Wander Are Lost...

2009-10-31T23:54:00.002-04:00

This post is for the entire YCF to see should they want to, but I would mainly like to address Araken, Sapphira, Ian, Elliot, and Flinn.
First of all, it has been a year and four months since I last posted, and I will not blame any of you if you don't even bother to check my blog anymore. Even I would have given up on me by now. I am so very sorry that I've been gone this long. When I said I didn't know how long it would be until I got Internet again, I definitely wasn't expecting my absence to be this extended.
Secondly, I've looked around for the past few days, and I want to say that I am really, really proud of how far the YCF has come since I lost my Internet nearly a year and a half ago. So many members! We started out with just the six of us, and by the grace and blessing of our God, the Young Christian Force has caught and spread like a wildfire, just like we prayed it would in the very beginning. Thank you for being an example and letting your lights shine for Christ!
Finally...this past summer (July '09), we moved into a new house, and I now have full access to high speed Internet there. If you five are willing to accept me again, I would love to get re-involved in the YCF and have a chance to rebuild our friendships.
I love you all, and I have missed you more than I can say.
Never Alone,
Shelby Marie

2008-06-30T15:08:00.000-04:00

Greetings!
I do not have much time, but I'm at the library and just had to drop in for a few moments and say hi to everybody!
How has everyone been doing?
How's the writing coming?
How is the YCF?
Tell Me!
Things have gone well for me so far. I got to take the best Myrtle Beach vacation ever with my mom and brother...so much fun! I am nearing 300 pages in my book and shall be done soon, I think...my story has been taking several wild, unexpected twists on me, so I'm pretty much just going with the flow.
I will be leaving on Sunday, the 6th of July to go to UVA for a twelve day camp---I have never been away from home for that long and will not know anyone there. Pray that I will be a good Christian example for the people I meet as it is not a Christian camp.
Write On! Never Alone!
Love in Christ,
Shelby Marie

Prayer for the Summer

2008-05-28T09:34:00.000-04:00

Hey guys, I am soooooo sorry I have been gone...again. I have been taking exams and will be finished with school on Friday. I will be scarce seen after that until I have my Internet back at my house....=( I will try to check the blog at the library, but I need you guys to pray that I get the Internet back soon.
What will I do without you guys? Pray for me again...I'll be finishing up my book during this time too. This is both ridiculously exciting and unbelievably scary at the same time...it has been a long but wonderful adventure.
As for the YCF...so many new members!! I must update my link list...
I will sign off for now...I'm going to go visit our new members' sites!
Write On!!!
Shelby Marie

Prince Caspian at Last!!!

2008-05-19T09:45:00.000-04:00

Yes! Caspian is here at last, and I got to see it on Friday after school! Oh, it was sooooo good! Definitely worth the SIX MONTHS of waiting! I'm gonna go see it about five more times....and then buy it when it comes out on DVD...
So, what did you guys think of it? Or have you seen it yet?
Write On!!!
Shelby Marie

Lost in You

2008-05-12T09:25:00.000-04:00

Hail and well met, blogging friends!
I apologize for being gone for so long...my teacher was not at school, so we weren't allowed to use the computers...
Anyway, to get to the point of this post...I've been recently introduced to a band called Red. (thanks Christian!!) I would like to share with you the words to one of their songs. I know you're probably getting tired of all the poetry and lyrics, but anyway, here it goes.

Lost in You

Can I be dreaming once again?
I'm reaching, helpless I descend
You lead me deeper through this maze
I'm not afraid, I'm

Lost in You
Everywhere I run
Everywhere I turn
I'm finding something new
Lost in You
Something I can't fight
I cannot escape
I could spend my life
Lost in You
Lost in You

Your whispers fill these empty halls
I'm searching for You as You call
I'm bracing, chasing after You
I need You more, I'm

Lost in You
Everywhere I run
Everywhere I turn
I'm finding something new
Lost in You
Something I can't fight
I cannot escape
I could spend my life
Lost in You

I can never be the same
It's something that I never could erase
I can never look away, I've
Lost myself in You
And it's all over now

There you have it. It's such a beautiful song...I hope you like the lyrics! Anyone heard it before?
Spend some time and lose yourself in Christ today!
Write On!!!
Shelby Marie

To Follow the Trend...

2008-04-30T09:48:00.000-04:00

Hey guys,
Well, I tried to post something yesterday...but for some reason it didn't work. I don't know why...it was a really good post too. I'll try to rewrite it some other time, but since everyone else is giving random facts about themselves, I suppose I'll play along.

I have two dogs--a short, fat beagle named Bagel and a sharpei mix named Rogue (Rogue has lots of wrinkles and is very funny looking)

I have two cats--Newman, who is about fourteen years old and has a very strange personality, and Tiger, who is about five years old and is approximately 30 pounds!

I only have one sibling, my younger brother Daniel.

I have dark brown hair. It's long, perhaps halfway down my back.

I have blue eyes, and have never worn glasses or contacts.

My favorite soda--Cream Soda, all the way!!

My favorite food is spaghetti--oh, great, now I'm hungry...

I am a member of the Door Within Forum...I'm actually one of the moderators.

I am an avid reader of almost everything, especially fantasy, and I am currently writing two books.

I am currently reading Father of Dragons, by L.B. Graham. Anybody else read the Binding of the Blade series? Sad, but very, very good books.

I like to sit on the roof of my house and read.

I am currently sitting in my school's computer lab. The walls are painted blue, but you didn't really need to know that...

Ok, I think that's about it for now...I have to go to algebra class in about ten minutes...I don't really want to, but I must.
Goodbye for now,
Write On!!!
Shelby Marie

A Quick Prayer Request and A Verse of Poetry

2008-04-25T09:42:00.000-04:00

Hey guys, I just wanted to ask for prayer for myself today. I'll be leaving in just a few minutes to go compete in the ACSI Math Olympics for the last time. I'm kinda nervous, but excited, too. Just pray that I do well and that God will hold me up while I'm there.

I'd like to leave you with this little verse that I thought up yesterday.

Song of Life

Arise, arise, arise
Come back, come back, to Adonai
Forge ahead, back to life
Cast off the shadow, return to light.

There you have it!
Thanks for your prayers and comments...
Write On!!!
Shelby Marie

Sorry!

2008-04-22T09:33:00.000-04:00

Hello, friends!
I am truly sorry for not posting for so long...firstly, I have no Internet access on weekends. Then we had three days of standardized testing at school...leaving me once again deprived of Internet access. =(
Then came another weekend, and then when I wanted to post yesterday, I didn't know what to post about!
However, I'm back today with some awesome Scripture for you! Check this out...

Psalm 111: 1-10 (you can all tell I really like Psalms, can't you...)

(1) Praise the Lord!
I will extol the Lord with all my heart in the council of the upright and in the assembly.
(2) Great are the works of the Lord; they are pondered by those who delight in them.
(3) Glorious and majestic are His deeds, and His righteousness endures forever.
(4) He has caused His wonders to be remembered; the Lord is gracious and compassionate.
(5) He provides food for those who fear Him; He remembers His covenant forever.
(6) He has shown His people the power of His works, giving them the lands of other nations.
(7) The works of His hands are faithful and just; all His precepts are trustworthy.
(8) They are steadfast for ever and ever, done in faithfulness and uprightness.
(9) He provided redemption for His people; He ordained His covenant forever--holy and awesome is His name.
(10) The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow His precepts have good understanding. To Him belongs eternal praise.

God is pretty awesome, isn't He?
Write On!!!
Shelby Marie

Sidetracked

2008-04-10T09:32:00.000-04:00

Okay, so I've been on a bit of a poetry kick for the past few days...I just wrote a poem for my other book(the one I'm almost done with) last night, and I thought I'd post it now. I'll post the other form of "Oh Rise up and Come" eventually...

The Wanderer's Plea

Oh, wary is the way
I walk this day
Oh, guard my steps
That my life may not end

Oh, while in dark I walk
Keep my sword sharp
Oh, while I run
Your will always be done

When enemies assail
May I prevail
Though I am weak
Your strength, it is complete

My King, make me stronger
As I wander
So that I might
Ever uphold Your light

Like it? Pray, tell!
Write On!!!
Shelby Marie

Oh Rise up and Come

2008-04-04T09:38:00.000-04:00

Since everyone seemed to like my last poem, I shall post the other two.
Let me explain that they are nearly the same, sort of one poem in two forms, and I'd like you all to tell me which form you like best. I'm only going to post one of them today, though.
This one, I think, is my favorite...

Oh Rise up and Come

Oh, the times are dark
In our suffering hearts

Worn, weary are we
From press of tyranny

Remnant of the day
That death-sting had its way

Look on that day in sorrow

Oh, rise up and come
Though I know you are numb

We must try again
Though Iverna will rend

For if we succeed,
We at last shall be free

And break the ever-dark tomorrow

Well, there you have it. You'll have to excuse the repetition of the phrase "ever-dark tomorrow"---it is a sort of trademark for Aidelahd. This poem/song/thing is a call for the Draedenai of all seven Kingdoms to gather together and try once more to overthrow the Dictator.
I'll post the other form tomorrow.
Write On!!!
Shelby Marie

Poetry and Explanations...

2008-04-02T09:35:00.000-04:00

Hello, all!
Before I post this poem, allow me to introduce you all to Aidelahd. He is a newer character of mine, a minstrel as a matter of fact. I did not plan him at all, he just showed up and started singing to me. Turns out he will play a very important role. In the book, Aidelahd is the author of this poem, which is called The Uprising.
Now, I must define a few things, or you might be confused a bit...
The Uprising- the period of time in Iverna when fifteen warriors, led by one called Veltorin, rallied men to them and rebelled against the King and Queen. There was desolation for months, and in the end, Veltoring overthrew the King and Queen and took the throne.
Iverna- my otherworld...the one Remedy gets pulled to(pronounced ee-Vair-nah)
Veltorin- leader of the rebellion, Dictator of Iverna
Adonai- my God-figure
Draedenai- the fighting men and women of Iverna(pronounced DRAY-den-eye)

Alright, then, I guess I'll shut up and post the poem now...haha!

The Uprising

Iverna once walked in Adonai's will
The King and the Queen His trusted friends
Draedenai pledged that for good or for ill
They would fight for Him to ev'ry end

But alas! Darkness stirred in hearts of men
They sought to bring about faith's demise
Fifteen warriors rallied men to them
And they rebelled against Adonai

Month after month, the blood flowed unhindered
The armies clashed, and during that time
Rebellion's leader trained elite killers
To make the Royal famly die

All through the Kingdoms cruel darkness was spread
And pain of death, our Draedenai took
Until Veltorin's opposition was dead
And bright of hope, Iverna forsook

The King and Queen were murdered in despair
When the ruthless killers were released
They left our Kingdoms lacking rightful heir
The Traitor's plan, it was now appeased

Years later, we still look back in sorrow
At Veltorin's heartless devising
And think of our ever-dark tomorrow
That began during the Uprising

Well, now that I've sufficiently bored you with an Iverna history lesson, please tell me what you think. I have two more, if you'd like to see them?

Write On!!!
Shelby Marie

One More Thought

2008-03-29T16:23:00.000-04:00

Alright, I know I'm posting twice in one day, but I didn't get to post on Easter. I saw this little skit thing at church that went to that "Arise, My Love" song, and I just really like the chorus, so I shall put it on here for all to see!

Arise, my love
Arise, my love
The grave no longer has a hold on You
No more death-sting
No more suffering
Arise
Arise

Think of it as the Father speaking to His Son... that is the way the song was written, I believe.
Write On!!!
Shelby Marie

2008-03-29T15:32:00.000-04:00

Hey guys,
Just a quick post to say hi to everyone and update y'all about my writing. I'm in the library right now and couldn't resist the chance to check on everyone.
Spring break has been lovely, and I wrote alot. A whole lot. In fact, I stayed up until two in the morning the other night furiously rewriting the middle of my latest chapter. It turned out really well in the end though. However, the morning after that, yesterday morning, my dog, Rogue, had a seizure. It was really scary, but he is alright now. Please pray he doesn't have any more.
Anyway, I'm off to check the YCF blogs now!
See you all on Monday!
Write On!!!
Shelby Marie

Just to Let You Know...

2008-03-20T09:47:00.000-04:00

Hello, dear friends of mine.
I just wanted to tell you guys that spring break starts tomorrow...which is good because I'll have time to write and bad because I won't have access to the Internet. That means no blogging and talking to my Internet family for a whole week! I am going to miss you all tremendously, and I promise I'll post the second I get back to school and the Internet.
Oh, one thing. I would ask you all to pray for me as I write this week. I'm drawing nearer to the end of my book, which means a lot of exciting and frightening writing sessions in the middle of the night. Just pray that God would guide me, as I will pray for you.
Much love and blessings,
Shelby Marie

Character Building, Part Two

2008-03-19T09:29:00.000-04:00

Here are a few more tips on character building...

(1) Don't make your characters perfect. They have to have a flaw. The story will be too unrealistic if your characters are perfect. For example, I have a character named Honor. He's captain of the guard(called Draedenai in my book), and he is great at making strategies...but...he has this habit of constantly twirling his dagger around and around in his hand. Now, I had no intention of this habit showing up, but nevertheless, Honor won't quit spinning his dagger around, and in the end, it stuck with him.
(2)Start simple--perhaps you've thought of a cool name--write out a short description and maybe one prominent character trait...then let he/she/it develop as they want to.
(3)A character must grow, change, and mature--I guarantee it--no character you create will stay the way they started.

Now, this goes along with my first point. It is a quote by Madeleine L'Engle...
"The hero has great flaws, and the villain has a heart."
Quite cool to think about, isn't it?

Write On!!!
Shelby Marie

What is a Christian?

2008-03-17T09:48:00.000-04:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day everyone!

Alright, so yesterday was St. Patrick's Day, and I tried to post something, but ran out of time. I really wanted to post, especially since yesterday was my fourteenth birthday, which I am rather excited about. God has so blessed me in my short life so far...I only wonder what great things are to come.

Now, on a more serious note, dcf has started a chain of posts about what it means to be a Christian. {To see his post, click on the link on my sidebar(My Life As...), and go to the post entitled "A Christian Who Is Hurt."} In this post, he asked all the YCF to post about Christianity. I know I'm probably the last of us to do it, but better late than never.

So, what is it to be a Christian? What is a Christian? Who is God?

God is love, life, freedom, peace, satisfaction, and salvation. He is all-powerful, ever-present, all-knowing, eternal, and absolutely perfect.
A Christian is one who believes the above as well as that Jesus came to earth as a baby, lived a sinless life, died a humiliating death on the cross, and then rose from the dead three days later! My Redeemer lives!!!
Not only does a Christian love God, but they also love others. No matter what horrible things they have done to you or anyone, you are to love that person. Why? Because GOD LOVES THEM AS MUCH AS HE LOVES YOU!
A Christian also seeks after God and strives to be more like Him, through His power. A Christian pursues that relationship ardently.

So, YCF, did I use my sword well?
Write On!!!
Shelby Marie

Character Building, Part One

2008-03-14T09:36:00.000-04:00

Hola, Hello, and Good Day,
The Writer's Guild discussed Character Building in the last meeting. We took so many notes that I have decided to post a few at a time and eventually get through them all in the next few days.

First of all, one must reveal things about a character rather than telling. Slowly reveal things about the character as you go throughout your story. Don't try to give their whole life story and personality upon introducing them.

It takes time to get to know a character, whether he/she/it is yours or not.

Don't put your character in a box--don't claim to know more about them than your readers. Sometimes you just have to let the characters do what they're going to do. I can give an example from my own writing. I recently started another book, which I intend to turn into a trilogy. Anyway, this girl named Remedy gets pulled into another world by the wind. As soon as the wind let her go, I was going to have another character native to this otherworld find her, but instead, the following dialogue flowed from my fingertips.

"...Ah, a newcomer."

"Welcome, welcome, welcome."

"Adonai gives freedom, freedom, freedom, tortured daughter."

Remedy ran forward, away from the voices, shouting, "Who's there? Leave me alone!" She ran for quite awhile, but the voices did not cease. "Stop!" she yelled. "Stop following me!"

"Sad, sad, sad, she will not listen."

"She is scared, scared, scared."

"We should be silent awhile."

"Why, why, why?"

-----------------------

Before you know it, I've got talking trees in my next book. Funny, isn't it? Turns out the trees are source of the wind that pulled Remedy into the otherworld, which is called Iverna, by the way. (pronounced ee-VAIR-nah)

Maybe I'll post my entire first chapter. Should I?

By the way, I'd like you YCF people to know that I will do a post about false Christianity soon...It seems you all have beat me to it, but I didn't want you to think I wasn't going to fight this battle with you!

Write On!!!

Shelby Marie

The Wondrous Cross

2008-03-11T09:42:00.000-04:00

Good day!
Sorry I haven't posted anything for awhile--I've been rather busy.
I bought the Narnia soundtrack yesterday! The music is absolutely beautiful. I can just lose myself in good music sometimes.
Anyway, I was in church on Sunday and we sang one of my favorite hymns--"When I Survey the Wondrous Cross." I really, really like the words to that song and I wrote them down on the bulletin while we sang so that I could post them here.

When I survey the wondrous cross
On which the Prince of Glory died
My richest gain, I count but loss
And pour contempt on all my pride.

See, from His head, His hands, His feet
Sorrow and love flow mingled down
Did e'er such love and sorrow meet?
Or thorns compose so rich a crown?

Were the whole realm of nature mine
That were and offering far too small
Love so amazing, so divine
Demands my soul, my life, my all.

Beautiful, is it not? The writer explains G0d's sacrifice so poetically...it just touches me.
What do you think? Do you have a favorite Christian song/hymn?
Just a thought,
Write On!!!
Shelby Marie

My March

2008-03-05T09:47:00.000-05:00

Hey guys, guess what? It's March!!! I absolutely adore springtime...the weather is usually really nice and all the flowers are blooming again...it's like all of God's creation coming to life again. It reminds me of how He brings us to life when we submit ourselved to Him. Just a little something to think about. What season do you like the most?
March is going to be rather busy for me. My birthday is coming up, as well as my mother's. We shall be turning fourteen and thirty-eight, respectively. I will also be attending two school events this month. The ACSI Spelling Bee will be held this Friday, and I'm going to that. The ACSI Math Olympics comes sometime at the end of the month...I just found out yesterday that I'm going to that one too. Then, in the midst of all that, there is soccer practice four days a week, soccer games, and The Writer's Guild!!
However, if I am patient, I'll make it through, for spring break is also at the end of the month!! Huzzah! Vacation with my mom!! Peace and quiet and time to write!! Huzzah again!! What are you guys doing for spring break??
As for my verse of the week, I just wanted to say that I have finished memorizing the rest of the chapter. Check it out (Proverbs 3)---It's got a lot of cool stuff in it.
Well, there you have it. My March. What will yours be like?

Write On!!!
Shelby Marie

When All Around Me Is Unstable

2008-02-29T09:28:00.000-05:00

Hey guys,
Here's a little 2-verse poem I composed yesterday while thinking about what happened at the college a few days ago.

When all around me is unstable;
It tilts, tips and threatens to fall,
I drop to my knees in the chaos
And to the Holy One I call.

Screams and voices echo everywhere,
Worried questions about our fate.
I'm weeping, desperate for an answer,
He whispers, "I will not forsake."

What do you think of it. It's meant as a picture of how God gives us gentle reminders of His power when we're struggling or panicking. Does anyone have an experience like that to share?

Write On!!!
Shelby Marie

Thoughts at Random

2008-02-28T09:41:00.000-05:00

Hello friends,
First off, I just finished reading The Restorer's Journey a few moments ago. It was really, really good, but to agree with Flinn, there should definitely be another one. When I go back to my mom's house tomorrow, I'll start reading it aloud to her and my brother. I've been thinking about how much I treasure that time...the three of us just feel so close when we're reading together. Most of the time we're in the car when I read aloud to them, but sometimes we curl up on the couch or on my mom's bed to read. It's a really neat feeling. When I'm reading to them, or Mom's reading to us, I can't help thinking how much I love them both, and how glad I am that God put me on this earth with them.
Secondly, I was just lying in bed the other night and I got to thinking about what it would be like for all of my Young Christian Force friends to meet...then I realized something. I will meet you someday. It may not be until we're all in Heaven together, but I will meet you. This may not sound like anything special to some of you, but it just hit me really hard. Now I look forward to that day more than ever. Once I realized that, this warm feeling curled in around me. It was reassuring, comforting, wonderful. I will see you all one day. I can't wait.
Well guys, thanks for listening to my random ramblings.

Write On!!!
Shelby Marie

Update

2008-02-27T09:27:00.000-05:00

Hey guys, I've a few updates on the school shooting thing.
First of all, there was a guy with a gun at the school, but he didn't fire any shots.
There were at least three hundred policemen at the college, and they were on lockdown all day, along with all the surrounding schools, including mine.
However, they still have not caught him...No one was killed or injured, which is good.
Thank you all for praying. It really means a lot.

Write On!!!
Shelby Marie

Prayer Request

2008-02-26T09:44:00.000-05:00

Hey guys, I have something I need you all to pray about.
There's been a shooting at a school about fifteen minutes away from mine. We don't know how many are dead or if the shooter is still alive. Please pray for the families of those who were killed, and pray for my school as well. If anyone here is feeling like me right now, they're probably a little scared. We're actually on lockdown right now, or are about to be.

Thanks for listening,
Shelby Marie

If It Be Your Will...

2008-02-22T11:20:00.000-05:00

Perhaps you are getting tired of my poetry? Too bad, because, I have another one for you!

If it be Your will
If it pleases Thee,
I will go
Where You send me.

M'lord, I'll follow
Where You lead;
Just say the word
And I will leave.

I have desires
I have dreams,
And I offer them
Up to Thee.

If it be your will,
Make them so;
But if not
Then let me know.

For I want to do
The good, the right;
And if I must
I'll sacrifice.

What do you think?
Write On!!!
Shelby Marie

To Become A Writer...

2008-02-21T09:29:00.000-05:00

Well, we had another meeting of The Writer's Guild on Tuesday, and had quite an interesting time editing a children's story that my friend is writing...but that is a tale for another day.
While in our meeting, we also discussed a few tips about writing in general. Here they are...

TO BECOME A WRITER:
1. Think of yourself as a writer--this one is first and foremost.
2. Write what you are passionate about! It will turn out much better when you write about that which you love.
3. Study--this one is self explanatory.
4. Practice! Write every day!!--Look, I know it's hard, but TRY! Take a few minutes out of your day and write anything, everything, whatever's on your mind!
5. Write at a regular place and at a regular time each day--whenever and wherever you feel most comfortable. For me, this is late at night up in the loft at my mom's house. When and where is your very favorite place to write?(that is, if you're a writer...)
6. Set a deadline for yourself--I tried to do this with the book I'm writing...I gave myself a year, beginning on my thirteenth birthday and ending on my fourteenth. Guess what? My fourteenth birthday is in about three weeks, and sadly...I won't be meeting my deadline. My lesson in telling you all that random stuff about it? Don't rush yourself too much! Be reasonable in setting your deadline.
7. Last but not least--Pick your subject and your audience...in other words, pick what you're writing about and who you're writing for.

Well, I hope those tips help the writers who see this...I know there are at least a few!
In other news, Kailani (sp?) has joined the Young Christian Force! Welcome, friend!!!
God go with you all,
Write On!!!
Shelby Marie

Valentine's Day

2008-02-15T09:55:00.000-05:00

Hello, and Happy Day-After-Valentine's-Day!
Here is a poem that I recently composed...I thought it was kind of fitting for Valentine's.

Crying in the dark,
Mist creeping like a wraith.
Despair seeping quickly
Through my thin and wavering faith.

Aching in my heart,
Hopelessness setting in.
All my life's broken pieces
Too many to pick up again.

He enfolds me in His wings
His love my soul surrounds
Again my lips can sing
I was lost; now I'm found.

He picks up all my broken pieces
Puts me back together again.
My heart, in grateful praising, says,
"How I love thee, Heaven-sent!"

Well, what do you think? Pray, tell!

Write On!!!
Shelby Marie

Random News

2008-02-12T09:33:00.000-05:00

Hello, everyone!
First of all, I want to welcome ***Flinn-fan-of-the-twins*** to the Young Christian Force! Yay, Flinn!!
Secondly, I would like to recommend that everyone try out the brand new Door Within Forum. However, if you haven't read the books...well, you may not want to join. Read the books, then join!!! Anyway, here's how you register: go to http://s1.zetaboards.com/TheDoorWithinForums/register/
The rest is self explanatory.
Lastly, there's a Writer's Guild meeting today! We're just going to have a free write, which is really good because I am at a slow point and need some time to sit down and work it out.
Well, now that I've given you all my random news tidbits...what's up with you guys? What's on your mind?

Write On!!!
Shelby Marie

Welcome, Elliot!

2008-02-09T17:02:00.001-05:00

I just wanted to welcome Elliot Reed to The Young Christian Force! I am so very excited about where this little group can take us and about how much we can grow! May the hand of God be upon us all.
Write On!!!
Shelby Marie

An Idea For The Young Christian Force

2008-02-08T09:58:00.000-05:00

Hey all!
Araken, I noticed that you had the words "A Young Christian Force Blog" on the header of your blog. I really, really like that idea and just added the same to my header. Sapphira and Ian, if you see this, do the same to yours. Araken, I hope you don't mind?
Write On!!!
Shelby Marie

Second Meeting

2008-02-06T09:25:00.000-05:00

Writer's Block? No problem!
Check out these tips and advice on Writer's Block that we discussed yesterday afternoon at the Writer's Guild.

1. Keep your pen/fingers moving--write something else, skip to a different scene, write a poem, a Bible verse, anything!
2. Pray--it always helps.
3. If you are working on something long, like a book, take a different scene and do a little editing.
4. Physical stimulus--play some music that fits what you're trying to write, and keep objects that create the mood of your current work nearby.
5. Keep pen and paper handy--ideas can come when you least expect it.
6. Try visualizing the scene as a movie in your head.
7. If all else fails, walk away for awhile, but don't give up. Take a walk, pray, ask advice from family and friends, and then get to work again.

Good luck and write on!!!
Shelby Marie

Happy Birthday, Araken!

2008-02-05T09:45:00.000-05:00

Hey guys,
I know I'm a little late on this, but I just wanted to personally wish Araken a happy birthday! (I read your post on Akiane, by the way...awesome!!!) My birthday is actually next month on St. Patrick's Day...Sapphira, if you see this, when's your b-day?
Anyway, I haven't much else to say...I emptied all my random thoughts yesterday on Wayne Thomas Batson's blog...y'all should check out that random thought post if you haven't yet.
Anyway, Happy B-day again, Araken! Sorry I'm late in saying it...my Internet's been down since we moved.

Write On!!!
Shelby Marie

Another Prayer Request

2008-01-31T10:02:00.000-05:00

Hello, all!
I just wanted to ask all of you who see this to pray hard for my friend Sapphira. She's just received some difficult news--please pray.
Sapphira, if you see this, know that you are surrounded by your friends.

Thanks,
Shelby Marie

Treasured Objects

2008-01-25T09:46:00.000-05:00

Ok, so I have this dagger...It's got a green sheath and irridiscent silver blade. I love the thing. But anyway, my English class has entered a contest that Writing magazine is having. You're supposed to write a poem, essay, or story about your most treasured object. I thought about what I would pick for awhile, but soon decided on my dagger and wrote the following poem.

Blade of silver, sheath like emerald
A blend of danger and serenity.
Its weight is comfortable in my hand;
It is of highest value to me.

Elegant curve, sharp edge;
Carvings of lions
And gems of red
Holding such intricate design.

I am at ease with it at my side;
I look at it and let my thoughts wander
To realms unseen, horizons bright
And on these things I ponder.

I think of what it means to me,
Representing all that I love:
Courage, strength, and yearning fierce,
Passion given from above.

Some may think it odd or strange
That I should value such as treasure;
But it matters not what they say,
I shall keep my blade, my dagger.

Well, there you have it. What do you think of it? What is your most treasured object?
Write On!!!
Shelby Marie

Prayer Request

2008-01-23T09:52:00.000-05:00

Hello, friends!
I'm sorry I haven't posted for awhile--I've been horribly busy because I just learned last week that I'm moving. It isn't very far--just seven miles from where I live now! Our new house has three bedrooms, a very nice kitchen, dining area, and great room, but the best part for me is the loft. It makes up the whole second story of the house and we've decided to put the computer up there---it'll be such a great place for me to get away and write! I'm so excited about it! Please pray for me and my family as we finish packing and all...we only have a week and a day to get out of our current house!
Anyway, thanks for listening to my excited ramble.
Know that you are all in my prayers!
Write On!!!
Shelby Marie

Psalm 45:1

2008-01-10T09:54:00.000-05:00

Psalm 45:1 (NIV)
My heart is stirred by a noble theme as I recite my verses for the King; my tongue is the pen of a skillfull writer.

This is rather random, but the above is my favorite Bible verse. What do you think of it? What's your favorite verse?

First Meeting

2008-01-09T09:39:00.000-05:00

The Writer's Guild held its first meeting yesterday, and it went very well. There were six or seven people there, and I think we will all share a very intimate friendship. We spoke mostly of what we wanted to accomplish through this group and we told each other what we were most comfortable writing. It has been decided that next week, we will tackle ways to get rid of -gasp- WRITER'S BLOCK!!! That should be interesting...lol. Anyway, this is a wonderful way to begin the new year, in my opinion. I'm very excited about where this group will go and what kind of accomplishments we will make together in the next few years.

The Writer's Guild is a Go!

2008-01-03T09:57:00.000-05:00

This just in:
The Writer's Guild will hold its first meeting on Tuesday at 3:15!
I don't know how I can express my excitement over this! All I can do is continue to praise God and give Him the credit for it. I'm really looking forward to getting together with other writers at my school and sharing our work and comparing ideas. My English teacher says that it will also be a fun way to learn new things about writing. This is going to be great!

Back to School

2008-01-02T09:41:00.001-05:00

Hello, my friends! I'm sorry that I haven't been able to post anything lately. My internet has been having problems. I just wanted to wish everyone a happy new year and to let you know that I am praying for all of my viewers. It is my first day back at school. It's sad to think that Christmas break is over, but I am very happy to see all of my friends again. My best friend gave me a really awesome gift today as well. Thank you, Emily!

Remembering Adam Spencer

2007-12-15T11:30:00.000-05:00

Just a little more than two years ago, a senior at my school died in a freak car accident. Now this was no ordinary senior. Adam Spencer was a guy who was completely sold out for God. He was the best Christian testimony I've ever witnessed. His deepest desire was to see others come to know God, to truly know God. His death impacted every student at my school in one way or another.
Yesterday, each and every student and teacher gathered around a small birch sapling that had been planted in Adam's honor. Two of my teachers shared a few things about Adam, and though I never knew him, I felt stabs of pain in my heart for his family. My very best friend was his cousin...her mom his aunt...both were standing right next to me. And as I watched the tears run down their faces, I couldn't help but cry myself. It was as if I could feel their pain just as deeply as they did. And so I locked my friend and her mom in a compassionate embrace.
Today, two years after Adam Spencer's death, his testimony is still being spread. In fact, I am glad to say that his testimony has been shared on every continent. And hope remains, for one day, I will get to meet Adam Spencer in person. His family and friends will get to be with him again. I can't wait.

Answered Prayer

2007-12-13T09:47:00.000-05:00

Unbelievable! My English teacher pulled me out of class two days ago along with another of my writing friends and says, "I've been thinking. We should put together a writer's club. Are you interested?"
My mouth dropped open and I said, "Of course! I was just going to talk to you about that today!"
I'm so happy! Thank you Jesus!!!

Writing and Such...

2007-12-10T15:49:00.000-05:00

I've only recently become aware of just how many people at my school are attempting to write books. There are several in my small class, and many more schoolwide, even a teacher or two. It would be wonderful to have a writer's group at my school. We just need someone to take the initiative and get it started.
I want to be that person. I want to step out and begin The Writer's Guild. I want a set time and place where aspiring novelists, poets, and journalists can get together and just write. To share our work, to brainstorm, to talk, to support, to just be.
In my opinion, writing a book is such a bold venture, traversing a long, adventurous path. Why not share it with others that are going down the same path?
What do you think?

2007-12-09T15:06:00.000-05:00

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First Post

2007-12-09T13:15:00.000-05:00

I had such a ridiculously hard time creating this blog. I knew what to do, but Google wouldn't accept my password. I tried and tried to reset it, but two of the links it gave me did not work. Finally, one day and a million tries later, here I am.
Praise God it finally worked!