I read Jane Eyre and Tale of Two Cities every couple of years. I just can't get enough. The stories are great, but I keep learning from the masterful telling of tales. As writers, we should always be reading too. I'd like to hear from you. What are you reading right now? CarenAustenInk.com

Whoa! Isn't that the truth? When all feels right in our world, we go on our merry way without giving a thought to much except our own happiness as if it would continue forever. But, when pain hits, we cry out. We curse God and question Him, "Why me?" Funny that we never question Him when life is easy, as if that's what we deserve. Pain gets our attention. Pain stops us in our tracks and makes us consider our lives and our world. People who never prayed before begin to beg God

Sometimes just the right word for a sentence, the perfect turn of phrase or the best ideas, come at the worst times: you were just about to fall asleep or dinner is almost on the table or you're driving. Doesn't matter. Keep a notebook by your side or in your purse at all times or use your smart phone and record what just popped in your mind. It's often greatness and can lead to more inspired writing if you let it. However, promise yourself you'll remember and, you know as we