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Kaylene Powell Answers Your Writing Questions

Photo by Leeloo The First on Pexels.com

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*Kaylene Powell shares insights on maintaining writing focus amidst life’s busyness. She encourages self-reflection on time management and prioritizing writing, suggesting that consistent writing varies by life stages. By reevaluating commitments and defining “consistent” based on personal circumstances, writers can carve out time for their passion.

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Question: With the busyness that life throws at you, how do you consistently stay focused on writing?

Kaylene’s answer: Well…here’s a humdinger of a question! And here are a few reflective thoughts.

First, am I really as busy as I think I am? Perhaps, if I were to do some of my regular activities more efficiently or organize my tasks on a calendar more effectively, I might find that I have short or long pockets of hidden time to redeem–and I could assign writing to several of those slots.

Second, why am I this busy? Perhaps I’m in a season of life where I have to work a “regular” (non-writing) job, be a main caretaker for family members, etc. Or perhaps I do not have as many responsibilities towards other people, but I have filled up my days with all kinds of activities, service opportunities, and other hobbies. In any season, it’s possible and easy to use my busyness to put off the writing I know deep down I am meant to do. AND it’s good to regularly consider if there are certain things I might say “no” to OR other things I might delegate so that writing can still have a place in my life on a regular basis.

Third, what does the word “consistently” mean? Back to the previously mentioned seasons of life, I need to remember that hourly, daily, weekly, monthly, and quarterly are all consistent, or regular, intervals of time. For example, there was a time when I was able to journal every morning and draft a few pages every evening; now, I’m satisfied and thankful for the consistent production of some writing on a weekly basis. And that’s okay–it is still consistent.

In summary: consider regularly and prayerfully reassessing priorities in how you spend your time…and then consider (gracefully and realistically) what “consistent” can look like for you in each season of your own life.Kaylene (Powell) Sasse is a former ESL and English instructor who is published across genres, including curriculum, academic non-fiction, fiction, memoir, and poetry. She loves spending time with her beloved husband and spunky dog. You can read more about her writing at kaylenepowell.com. Send your questions to Kaylene at begladintoday@gmail.com.

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*The opinions given belong to the author (or guest authors) and don’t necessarily reflect the opinions of the WS support team or Wordsowers as a whole. Take what you like and leave the rest.

We’re Desire Your Ideas and Input

Photo by Nubia Navarro (nubikini) on Pexels.com

WS Christmas Party Planning Meeting

You’re invited to attend the WS Christmas Party Planning Meeting. We value your ideas and suggestions, so please join the WS Support Team to help plan the party. If you can’t attend the meeting but would like to give some input, please email Lollie Hofer at lolliehofer@yahoo.com or leave a comment on the WS Facebook page at Facebook. You can also respond by replying directly in the comments below.

The meeting is on Thursday, October 15th at 1:00 p.m. The location is Stories Coffee at 15526 Spaulding Street, #100, Omaha, NE 68116.

Attendees Were Encourage and Inspired

Wordsowers Retreat
Don’t Write in Isolation

It would take pages to share everything that took place at this year’s Wordsowers Retreat. On Saturday, September 19th, eleven authors gathered together at Mahoney State Park to further enhance their writing. Although encouraged and inspired, they came away with so much more. They discovered they needed not only God in their writing endeavors but each other as well.

The day began with breakfast, games, and laughter. Who knew some folks are highly opinionated about pencils? Kaylene Sasse shared her beautiful singing voice by leading the group in some hymns from way back in the day. Singing together felt holy and inspirational. 

Ashley Shannon shared a devotional, and everyone agreed she heard from God with a timely message that impacted their lives. Using the story of Job, Ashley shared a Job moment from her life. Here are some things she learned from her experience:

-Don’t write in isolation. We need each other.
-Seek wise counsel.
-Satan doesn’t want us to share our words.

She concluded with a powerful quote from Flannery O’Conner: “When a book leaves your hands, it belongs to God. He may use it to save a few souls or to try a few others, but I think that for the writer to worry is to take over God’s business.”

Although lots of writing took place, some of the sweetest moments came from fellowship and praying for each other. Again, there isn’t enough space to share all that the Lord did in the hearts of those in attendance, but the fruit of it will be evident in their writings. 

A HUGEMONGOUS THANK YOU to Amy Stanley for coming up with the retreat idea and for all the work she put in to make it a reality and a success. Amy, you rock!
 

Great Time of Fellowship and Selling

Wordsowers went to market – the Bellevue Farmer’s Market, actually. The weather was perfect, and folks showed up eager to spend their money. Since we were the only book table at the market, our authors had a successful morning selling their wares. Plus, we spent a glorious morning hanging out together.

Thank you, Amy Stanley, for organizing the outing. Thank you to Dwayne, Rene, Casey, and Lollie for joining us. We’ll keep you posted concerning our next adventure to the Farmer’s Market.

Controversial Subject: Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence — Is it Evil, Good, or Both?
 Kaylene Sasse Will Address This Hot Topic at the May Meeting
Thursday, May 28th at 7:00 p.m.

The meeting location is at LifeSpring Church
13904 S. 36th Street
Bellevue, NE 68123

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming part of daily life, in our general activities and technology-based assistants. What does this potentially mean for us as writers (and for our readers)? Should we lean into the current state of affairs and any additional developments to come? Or should we resist the urge to incorporate AI tools and sources into our writing and publishing process steps? What practical, legal, and ethical/moral considerations in the AI arena should Christian writers pay attention to and pray about?

Kaylene Sasse will touch on these points when she speaks at our May meeting. She’ll share from her own thoughts, experiences, and research (also drawing from conversations she’s had with her techy husband). In addition, she’ll present a question-rooted handout for attendees to mull over together. If you plan to attend, consider bringing a list of AI tools and processes you’ve heard of or already use (if applicable) to reference during our discussion.

Kaylene (who publishes under her maiden name, Kaylene Powell), enjoys a writing process that is as little influenced by AI as possible, when she can help it. Visit her website, (Apt Words to Light the World) to view her books and read writing samples on her blog page. Three of Kaylene’s books are available on Amazon: 1) Amazon.com: The Voice of Melody eBook : Powell, Kaylene: Books; 2) Bamboo in Mist: An Exploratory Understanding of Chinese Spirituality; and 3) Heaven Help Me: How One Abuse Survivor Overcame Terror and Learned to Trust Again. She will also bring book copies to the May meeting, in case anyone wants to purchase a signed copy.

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Reminder: This month, Wordsowers will not meet at Omaha Christian Center.

Artistic Write-in with Theresa Graeve

A Splash of Color: Sent with Love
A Write-in with Theresa Graeve

Where watercolors will lead to an inspiring story

March 26, 2026, at 7:00 p.m.
Omaha Christian Center

Theresa’s done it before and will do it again. Using an artistic approach, she’ll inspire us as writers. (Ask Kaylene. She had an idea for a book, and thanks to Theresa’s inspiration, the first chapter is now written.) After painting postcards with watercolors, the creative juices will “send our writing to the next level.” (That’s a Theresa quote.)

Obviously, we’re going to have fun. Theresa will provide the watercolors, postcards, pens, and paper needed. Feel free to bring your laptops as well. Snacks and water will be served.

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Omaha Christian Center is located at 4215 N. 92nd Street, Omaha, NE 68134. The meetings are held in the church’s fellowship hall. Park in the south parking lot, enter through the main door, and follow the signs.

Dwayne Straw: The Importance of Research

The Importance of Research

Join us at our next Wordsowers meeting:
February 26, 2026, at 7:00 p.m.
Omaha Christian Center
4215 N. 92nd Street
Omaha, NE 68134

Please note: We no longer offer Zoom as an option for our monthly meetings.

Wordsowers is proud to announce that our very own Dwayne Straw will share about the importance of thorough research for both fiction and nonfiction writers. Some of the topics he’ll cover are: 1) What is the definition of research? 2) Does your story need research? 3) How does research impact your work, and we might add, your credibility? 4) Where do you search for information? 5) What pitfalls should you watch for?

Dwayne has been a part of Wordsowers for many years, way back when Kat Crawford conducted critique meetings in her home. He attended the meetings along with Jeanie, Angela, the Williamsons, Karen, and many others. (What an incredible legacy those names represent.) We’re encouraging you, whether an oldie-but-goodie or a newbie, to honor Dwayne for his years of faithfulness by attending this meeting.

Dwayne is a self-published author of four books that are a part of a fictional series set in World War Two, The Dane Shaw Series. Dwayne wants folks to know Dane Shaw’s name has no bearing on his own name. And yes, this editor (Lollie) asked him that question.  I have also read all four books and can vouch for his excellence in research, not to mention his strong character development, and powerful verbiage. His books are available on Amazon:  Dane Shaw Adventure (4 book series) Kindle Edition.

After Dwayne’s presentation and the Q&A session, if time allows, we’ll spend a few minutes addressing additional questions related to writing, publishing, formatting, editing, and more. Index cards will be available for you to jot down your questions, and one card will be selected to discuss.

Beginning in March, keep an eye out for our new WS newsletter feature, “Because You Asked,” where we’ll share answers to some of your submitted questions.

(The meetings are held in the church’s fellowship hall. Park in the south parking lot, enter through the main door, and follow the signs.)

Please Honor Us With YOUR Presence

Wordsowers Annual Christmas Party
The Gift that Keeps on Giving

Saturday, December 6th
10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

You and a guest are invited to the WS Annual Christmas Party. It will be held at Amy Stanley’s home located at 18814 Alder Drive, Omaha, NE 68136.

There’ll be a short devotion on the theme of “The Gift that Keeps on Giving,” as well as Christmas carols, brunch, fellowship time, games, and door prizes.

For brunch, we’re asking people with last names beginning in A-M to bring a “savory” dish such as eggs, bacon, sausage, or casseroles. We’re asking people with last names beginning in N-Z to bring a “sweet” dish, such as cinnamon rolls, muffins, bagels, or fruit. Beverages will be provided.

You won’t want to miss our always-entertaining White Elephant gift exchange. In keeping with the theme, “The Gift that Keeps on Giving,” bring something you already have at home, ideally a present you’ve received but never quite found a use for. Wrap it up and bring it to the party. (Please don’t purchase a gift.) Let’s keep it lighthearted and have some laughs together.

You’ll need to RSVP for the Christmas party no later than Tuesday, December 2nd. To RSVP, send an email to Debbie Crom at debbie_crom@yahoo.com or text her at 402-238-2188 (or you can reply to this WS newsletter email). In the email or text, be sure to tell Debbie how many will attend and what specific brunch dish you are bringing.

Guest Speaker: Cheryl Paden

Guest Speaker: Cheryl Paden
Writing from Life

Thursday, September 25th, at 7:00 p.m.

In-Person Meeting location:
*Omaha Christian Center
4215 N. 92nd Avenue
Omaha, NE 68134
(Zoom is also available. See details below.)


Go now, write it on a tablet for them, inscribe it on a scroll, that for the days to come it may be an everlasting witness. Isaiah 30:8 (NIV) 

God has given each of us specific and individual life experiences. When writing, what better place to draw from than our own lives? In this workshop, Cheryl Paden will discuss collecting and perfecting life stories to create literature. Discover how writing from your own life can become your most powerful form of expression. Whether you write nonfiction, fiction, essays, or poetry, there are myriad ways to implement your life experiences into your stories.

Cheryl Paden is a nonfiction writer with a passion for crafting inspirational, devotional, and memoir pieces. Her portfolio boasts of over 100 published works, including magazine articles, anthologies, newspaper columns, and devotional books. Her current literary endeavors include an Advent devotional, a nonfiction book on seeking a balanced lifestyle, and a Sacred Balance Journal.

She has facilitated spiritual and writing retreats, women’s ministry workshops, and Bible studies. As a previous instructor at Metro Community College, Cheryl has taught an eight-week course on “Writing for Life” and does a one-hour summary presentation at writing workshops.

An active member of several writing communities including Wordsowers, Cheryl is affiliated with HACWN, The Jerry Jenkins Writers Guild, Compel Pro Writer Training, and “My Thoughts Exactly,” (a local writer’s group). Her diverse background includes professional roles as a registered nurse, an apartment manager and bookkeeper, and a local pastor in the United Methodist Church.

To stay connected with Cheryl and explore her work, visit her website at Seeking Balance by Cheryl and follow her on Facebook at seekingbalancebycheryl. If you are interested in a prayer journal designed to inspire and encourage daily conversation with God, go to Sacred Balance: A Prayer Journal: Discovering Sacred Balance in an Out-of-Balance World.: Paden, Cheryl A.: 9781733260909: Amazon.com: Books.

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Zoom: To join the meeting via Zoom, click on the following link: Wordsowers Christian Writers Group Meetups | Facebook. It is a closed group so if you haven’t joined the group yet, click on “Invite.” Answer the questions, agree to the guidelines, and an administrator will let you into the group. Please do this prior to 4:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting.

Parking: Park in the lot on the south side of the church and enter through the main doors. Follow the signs to the fellowship hall.


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*Wordsowers is not affiliated with Omaha Christian Center. They graciously allow us to use their facilities for the meetings.

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Kaylene Sasse Will Speak on a Powerful Topic

August Wordsowers Meeting

Guest Speaker: Kaylene Powell
Made for This: When the Lord Uses Our Shaping for the Edification of Others

Thursday, August 28th, at 7:00 p.m.

In-Person Meeting location:
*Omaha Christian Center
4215 N. 92nd Avenue
Omaha, NE 68134
(Zoom is also available. See details below.)


Come and hear about how both natural wiring and personal experiences shaped the heart, outlook, and output of one cross-genre writer. Reading of book excerpts and reflective exercises (for your own use afterwards) will be included. 

Kaylene Sasse (who writes under her maiden name, Powell) has published multiple language learning curricula and academic essay papers, as well as a novel, an academic nonfiction volume, a poetry collection, and a memoir. She has also written a second novel, three novellas, and several children’s stories that she would like to publish in the future. You can read more about Kaylene and enjoy her blog posts via www.kaylenepowell.com and follow her on Facebook (Kaylene Powell, Author). Kaylene lives in Bellevue with her beloved husband and sweet Maltese puppy.

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Zoom: To join the meeting via Zoom, click on the following link: Wordsowers Christian Writers Group Meetups | Facebook. It is a closed group so if you haven’t joined the group yet, click on “Invite.” Answer the questions, agree to the guidelines, and an administrator will let you into the group. Please do this prior to 4:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting.

Please note: The church is experiencing internet issues. We apologize if you’re not able to connect via Zoom. The church is working on the issue and we’re praying Zoom will be available for the May meeting with Angie Hanson.

Parking: Park in the lot on the south side of the church and enter through the main doors. Follow the signs to the fellowship hall.


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*Wordsowers is not affiliated with Omaha Christian Center. They graciously allow us to use their facilities for the meetings.

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“Refresh Your Purpose” Retreat
RSVP by Saturday, June 7th


Refresh your spirit and your call.

Sonlit Acres
Waterloo, NE
Saturday, June 14th
9:00-5:00 p.m.

Mark your calendar for this life-inspiring event at Sonlit Acres in Waterloo, NE. You’ll spend time together with others in God’s Word and in worship, as well as have alone time where you can reflect on God’s purpose for your life. You’ll also have opportunities to write, share, and fellowship. At the end of the day may you be refreshed and inspired to walk out God’s call for your life as a writer. The cost for the retreat is $25.00, which includes a light lunch of deli meats, cheeses, bread, fruits, and veggies. Water will be provided. (Feel free to bring your own snacks/beverages to eat/drink throughout the day.)

To RSVP, contact Amy Stanley at amystanleyauthor@gmail.com or respond to the newsletter’s email address. We need to hear from you by Saturday, June 7th, if you’re interested in attending the retreat. You can pay two ways – 1) bring $25.00 CASH with you to the retreat , or 2) send a check to Lollie in the name of Eleanor Hofer no later than Monday, June 9th. Her address is 12927 Chandler Street, Omaha, NE 68138.

Some folks are spending Friday night at Sonlit Acres. If you’re interested in spending the night, reserve a room directly through them. Here is their website: HOME | Sonlit Retreats. Contact Amy to receive a discount code to spend the night or if you have any questions about the retreat.

Location for the retreat is 2304 Campanile Road Waterloo, NE 68069. 

Please note, we will not have critique group or the regular monthly meeting in June.

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Powerful Message of Grace and Hope for Writers

May Wordsowers Meeting

Speaker: Angie Hanson
Navigating Grief with Grace and Hope

Thursday, May 22nd, at 7:00 p.m.

In-Person Meeting location:
*Omaha Christian Center
4215 N. 92nd Avenue
Omaha, NE 68134
(Zoom is also available. See details below.)

Wordsowers is thrilled to announce our May speaker, Angie Hanson. She will share how the Lord of grace and hope walked with her as she experienced a series of horrific tragedies in her life. She’ll encourage writers to use their life experiences to minister to and encourage others facing difficult situations.

Angie Hanson is a grief educator, certified grief coach, and the founder of Butterflies + Halos, a grief-focused stationary and support brand. As a multi-time author, she shares her personal experiences of love, loss, and resilience to help others navigate grief with grace and hope.

She is the author of Chapters of a Resilient Heart, a deeply personal memoir on grief and healing, and a contributing author in Resilient A.F.: Stories of Resilience, Volume 2. She is also releasing in May 2025, two more co-authored books, Grace & Grit: Stories of Overcoming Life’s Hardest Challenges with Resilience, and the upcoming Stories of Family & Friends Lost anthology, where she honors the legacy of her late husband. Through her writing, speaking engagements, and grief coaching, she creates space for healing, connection, and the power of resilience.

Find Angie and her offerings at: Butterflies & Halos Homepage – Butterflies and Halos. Follow her on socials at Instagram or FB: Facebook.

You can purchase her book on her website or you can go to Amazon to purchase or if you like the kindle version, it is also available at: https://a.co/d/8KC5GF8.

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Zoom: To join the meeting via Zoom, click on the following link: Wordsowers Christian Writers Group Meetups | Facebook. It is a closed group so if you haven’t joined the group yet, click on “Invite.” Answer the questions, agree to the guidelines and an administrator will let you into the group. Please do this by 4:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting.

Parking: Park in the lot on the south side of the church and enter through the main doors. Follow the signs to the fellowship hall.


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*Wordsowers is not affiliated with Omaha Christian Center. They graciously allow us to use their facilities for the meetings.