The Health Care Bill now lumbering across capital hill is not reform. Please know this.
One, the taxes and fees go into effect immediately BUT you and I will not see services for 2 plus years. I can't remember if it's 2 or 3, maybe more, but we will be paying into it! What? Would you sign up and pay for any service that you couldn't access immediately. What if you bought cable but the provider didn't turn it on for two years? Only the U.S. Government could think of such a thing and only those who have agendas would vote for it.
Two, this bill now includes government take over of all student loans? How is that Health Care?
Three, the government programs already in place are already going bankrupt. The first thing the government will do with Health Care gets in trouble, and it will, is look for ways to save money. That won't mean cutting spending in other government arenas, but taking from you and me. More taxes, less services. More intrusive laws to keep us "healthy."
They'll tell us what to eat, when and where. How to exercise. How many children we can't have. Does this sound like the land of the FREE and home of the BRAVE? Be free! WE must take care of our own family. We must be brave and pay our own bills. Sell our cares if we have to, cut cable, get rid of the smart phone. Stop eating out so much. Be BRAVE and manage our own lives and stop expecting others to do it for us.
In Florida, a state legislator introduced a bill whereas teens under eighteen need parental consent to visit a tanning bed. The parent must show up to sign the form. Teens under fourteen wouldn't be allow to go at all. Why? Because these beds cause higher risk of melanoma in teens. YET, if fourteen year old girl wants to have an abortion, parents are not allowed to know. Want an abortion? No questions asked.
Can you imagine? This tanning bed law is just a hint of what is to come. We won't be able to use hair color or certain detergents because some lame brain study will show it could cause cancer. And don't we know how those studies "change" over the years?
When I was growing up the '70s the fear was Global Cooling. Now it's Global Warming. In the '90s, caffeine was the ill of society until Starbucks became the rage. I've heard so many ill-fated diet and health scares -- it's multi-billion dollar industry -- I laugh when I see new studies. Some of them are just ludicrous. I'm amazed at what thinking, intelligent people buy into.
1 Corinthians 1:20 "Where is the wise man? Where is the scribe? Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world?"
The key to our success, even for minorities and the poor is to let each man see to his own house. Hand outs have not produced less poor. We've experimented with the Great Society for seventy years. It has only increased the welfare rolls.
If I eat too much fast food, never exercise and smoke like a chimney, that is not your responsibility. If you sleep around and get infected with any number of the hundreds of non curable diseases, that is NOT my responsibility. Even in the New Testament church, where they had all things in common, benefactors had to fit a certain criteria to receive aid.
Men had to work to provide for themselves or families. Paul encouraged the younger widows to marry. Only the truly poor and widows were served.
But do not be deceived, this bill is not about Health Care, it's about take over. It's about Marx and Mao, not Madison and Jefferson. The fundamental heart beat and structure of America is under assault.
I love my country. I love our freedoms. We are the greatest nation on earth. I don't want to go into my old age telling my nieces and nephews how it used to be, how it could've been.
It's been said by the core White House leaders and staff they want to fundamentally change America. Whether you voted for this president or not, I'm sure most of you do not want to fundamentally change America.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Monday, March 08, 2010
Once In A Blue Moon by Leanna Ellis
I met Leanna about four years ago, online, somehow, but we've become good friends. She's the kind who made me feel "at home" the first time we chatted in person. I'm so happy to have her on the site to showcase her new book! She's a great writer.Once in a Blue Moon from B&H Publishing!
About the book:
Faith is the first step to soaring. The day Armstrong stepped on the moon has special memories for most Americans, but not for Bryn Seymour. It’s the day her mother died. Despite death defying feats, guilt has always pulled Bryn down time and again. But a perfect love shows her taking a leap of faith is the first step to soaring. But it only happens … once in a blue moon.
Read an excerpt here.
About the author:"Leanna Ellis takes a back seat to no one," says Debbie Macomber. But Leanna hopes she allows God in the driver’s seat as she taxies her two children to and from all their activities, lets her menagerie of pets in and out … in and out ..., figures out what to cook for dinner (or where to order takeout), and at the same time keeps those quirky characters in her head from bothering others.
Winner of the National Readers Choice Award, Leanna writes quirky women's fiction with a splash of romance. From a long line of southerners and patriots, she lives with her family in Texas.
ONCE IN A BLUE MOON NOW!!!
FACELIFT September 2010
Thursday, March 04, 2010
Six Writing Myths YOU Should Know
Over on noveldoctor, Stephen Parolini blogged about Seven Writing Myth He Made Up So He Could Debunk Them.
This got me thinking about the writing myths I'm aware of so why not toss them out there. Thanks noveldoctor for the idea.
The Myth - Writer's make a lot of money.
The Truth - Hahahahahahahahahahahahaha. Oh, man, shew, good one.
The Myth - If I make the story weird, they'll buy it.
The Truth - Hahahahahahahahaha. . . okay, I guess I can't do that too many times. If you make your story or proposal weird in an effort to get attention, editors and agent will only think you're weird and you'll wind up on some, "you'll never believe what someone sent to me," list. I've shared good laughs with editors and agents over this one. In fact, it's writer conference chatter, "So, what's the weirdest proposal you've ever received?"
The Myth - Leading with "God told me to write this," will get me a contract.
The Truth - No. Neither will, "This is the best thing you'll ever read." Playing the God card or the Aren't-I-Bold card does not ingratiate any author with an editor or agent. God speaks to all of us and if God really told you to write a book and take it to Mr. Certain Agent, He's going to tell the agent you're coming. Most Christian authors seek God about their work, about their agent and publisher. So don't think you're the first and only.
Being overly bold sometimes works in the corporate world, but back fires in the publishing arena. Authors, especially new ones, MUST be humble and teachable. No one writes a perfect book no matter how engaging the story. There are a few exceptions for first time novelists hitting the market with a bang -- J.K. Rowling and Stephanie Myers -- but don't count on being in that class. Yippee if it happens to you, but don't expect it. If it does, sleep with your lights on. The rest of us will haunt you.
The Myth - My publisher will promote the heck out of my book.
The Truth - Not possible. Most publishers have a small team to promote their books and there is simply more work than people. Most publishers do a minimum for each book, but seasoned and long time authors get the bulk of attention and money. Rightfully so. Or a new "lead" author gets attention. And of course, anyone who writes Amish. ;)
Be prepared to toot your own horn. Get on Facebook and Twitter. Build a nice web site with a blog. Join writers groups for help and support. Tout other authors who might in turn tout you. But be sincere! Hire someone like LitFuse to put together a blog tour for you.
The Myth - Once you're published, you're in, on the road, fame is the only sun on your horizon.
The Truth - Being published is certainly a help in gaining more contracts, but once you are published many other factors come into play. Some you can help, some you cannot. At the end of the day, even if you have written great stories, you also have to sell decently. Getting your book in the hands of readers is not as easy as you'd think. A book buyer for Barnes and Noble might determine all the purchases for an entire region. If a previous book didn't sell well, they are less likely to take a chance on the author's second or third book. A new author has a better chance of getting picked up.
The Myth - There's a reason writers struggle with their weight.
The Truth - Yes! It's called my desk is thirty feet from my refrigerator and my in-house office is one mile from Publix, McDonalds, Burger King, Subway, Soprano's Pizza, Beef O'Brady's and 7-11.
The gym is fives miles away. Do the math. ;)
This got me thinking about the writing myths I'm aware of so why not toss them out there. Thanks noveldoctor for the idea.
The Myth - Writer's make a lot of money.
The Truth - Hahahahahahahahahahahahaha. Oh, man, shew, good one.
The Myth - If I make the story weird, they'll buy it.
The Truth - Hahahahahahahahaha. . . okay, I guess I can't do that too many times. If you make your story or proposal weird in an effort to get attention, editors and agent will only think you're weird and you'll wind up on some, "you'll never believe what someone sent to me," list. I've shared good laughs with editors and agents over this one. In fact, it's writer conference chatter, "So, what's the weirdest proposal you've ever received?"
The Myth - Leading with "God told me to write this," will get me a contract.
The Truth - No. Neither will, "This is the best thing you'll ever read." Playing the God card or the Aren't-I-Bold card does not ingratiate any author with an editor or agent. God speaks to all of us and if God really told you to write a book and take it to Mr. Certain Agent, He's going to tell the agent you're coming. Most Christian authors seek God about their work, about their agent and publisher. So don't think you're the first and only.
Being overly bold sometimes works in the corporate world, but back fires in the publishing arena. Authors, especially new ones, MUST be humble and teachable. No one writes a perfect book no matter how engaging the story. There are a few exceptions for first time novelists hitting the market with a bang -- J.K. Rowling and Stephanie Myers -- but don't count on being in that class. Yippee if it happens to you, but don't expect it. If it does, sleep with your lights on. The rest of us will haunt you.
The Myth - My publisher will promote the heck out of my book.
The Truth - Not possible. Most publishers have a small team to promote their books and there is simply more work than people. Most publishers do a minimum for each book, but seasoned and long time authors get the bulk of attention and money. Rightfully so. Or a new "lead" author gets attention. And of course, anyone who writes Amish. ;)
Be prepared to toot your own horn. Get on Facebook and Twitter. Build a nice web site with a blog. Join writers groups for help and support. Tout other authors who might in turn tout you. But be sincere! Hire someone like LitFuse to put together a blog tour for you.
The Myth - Once you're published, you're in, on the road, fame is the only sun on your horizon.
The Truth - Being published is certainly a help in gaining more contracts, but once you are published many other factors come into play. Some you can help, some you cannot. At the end of the day, even if you have written great stories, you also have to sell decently. Getting your book in the hands of readers is not as easy as you'd think. A book buyer for Barnes and Noble might determine all the purchases for an entire region. If a previous book didn't sell well, they are less likely to take a chance on the author's second or third book. A new author has a better chance of getting picked up.
The Myth - There's a reason writers struggle with their weight.
The Truth - Yes! It's called my desk is thirty feet from my refrigerator and my in-house office is one mile from Publix, McDonalds, Burger King, Subway, Soprano's Pizza, Beef O'Brady's and 7-11.
The gym is fives miles away. Do the math. ;)
Monday, March 01, 2010
Building your author brand online
Over on Michael Hyatt's blog, he talks about building your author brand online. Mike offers great advice -- from a CEO's chair.
With his genius in mind, I thought I'd write about building an author's brand online and managing social media from an author's point of view.
Just before my first Thomas Nelson book released, Lost In Nashvegas, I joined MySpace to keep up with kids in the youth church. Then I had a brain blip, "What if I use it to announce my books?"
And social media, which wasn't called social media in '05, came alive to me.
I hopped on Facebook the first moment it was opened to non college students. I have a Xanga and MyCCM account. I'm on Shoutlife, Goodreads, and BeenUp2. I have a Tumbr site.
I love Twitter. I blog here and on Faithchick.com.
I created all these accounts, signed up for blog rolls, to keep up with the public, generate buzz or interest in my books -- if possible -- but my real goal in life is to write great stories.
It is impossible to keep up with everything. I decided I had to pick the most traveled and popular cyber venues to concentrate my efforts. I casually keep up with the rest.
Concentration of efforts: Facebook and Twitter are my most active cyber spots. When I'm on deadline, it's easy to to tweet four or five times a day, link it to Facebook, than to keep up with blogging. Blogging becomes hard on deadline because I can't spare my creative brain power to write a comprehensive or slightly intelligent blog.
It's easy to respond to Facebook comments, Twitter replies and blog comments. And part of building an online presence is keeping up with dialog.
The giveaway concept: I'm just going to be honest here. This idea wears me out. One, I barely make enough money to help my household and keep up with business expenses, let alone give away books or gift baskets to keep readers interested and build an online presence. Giveaways has created a community of people who expect freebies. I've had folks sign up for my newsletter to get a chance to win. When they didn't, they removed their name.
I love giving away my author copies -- that's what they are for -- but so many authors are giving away big gifts like GPSs, iPods, gift baskets, and more. I'm not saying I won't ever do this again, but I've not found it to be productive. It's more discouraging than encouraging.
What do you think?
Building a street team or a tribe: This takes time. Little by little readers and fans begin to gather around and tell people about your work. This is the absolute best marketing. But writing books that make readers want to tell others about also takes time and energy. For me, this is my biggest focus and concern. I want to write great books. I believe the majority of my time and effort should be focused on my stories.
That is my continual gift to you. A great book.
For the release of The Sweet By and By, a street team member, April, created a Twitter account for the book. She gives away copies, tweets lines from the book, lets followers know what's up with Sara Evans or me. What a blessing she's been. She's part of our tribe.
You can't make a reader or fan create a Twitter for you, but sooner or later your fans will speak out!
Dialog with street team members is key, BTW.
But I'm not published yet: I recently spent a weekend with a bunch of writers. Between working on their craft, we talked about other things they can be doing to build their name and brand. Susie Warren and I encouraged them all to Twitter and blog.
Blogging is great for several reasons, but the key being to force you to write three, four, five times a week. Editing your blog posts trains you to write well. Blogging forces you to look at life and see beneath the surface. A good part of writing is about observing life and molding it into a story. If you can't observe enough to write a blog, you might not have enough texture and depth to write a compelling novel. Look for life's symbols and metaphors, blog about them. Figure out how to fold them into your characters.
Above all, be kind: If you're trying to build an online presence, and hope to one day see your work in print with your name on the cover, be kind to other authors! Don't blast their books. Don't snark at them in public, or private. Follow industry leaders like Michael Hyatt, Chip MacGregor, Rachelle Gardner, Steve Laube and others. Chime into conversations. If you disagree, do so intelligently. If you can't say anything nice... walk away from your computer. :)
Write reviews that edify. Write blogs that bring insight. I often blog about politics, but I try to do so in a constructive way because many of my fellow authors and readers might disagree with me.
Same with spiritual topics. My main goal is to edify Jesus. Not preach theology.
My sister blogs about her family and it's so funny. But she never puts any of them down in her posts.
What are your thoughts on building an online presence? Any additional advice? Any suggestions or thoughts?
With his genius in mind, I thought I'd write about building an author's brand online and managing social media from an author's point of view.
Just before my first Thomas Nelson book released, Lost In Nashvegas, I joined MySpace to keep up with kids in the youth church. Then I had a brain blip, "What if I use it to announce my books?"
And social media, which wasn't called social media in '05, came alive to me.
I hopped on Facebook the first moment it was opened to non college students. I have a Xanga and MyCCM account. I'm on Shoutlife, Goodreads, and BeenUp2. I have a Tumbr site.
I love Twitter. I blog here and on Faithchick.com.
I created all these accounts, signed up for blog rolls, to keep up with the public, generate buzz or interest in my books -- if possible -- but my real goal in life is to write great stories.
It is impossible to keep up with everything. I decided I had to pick the most traveled and popular cyber venues to concentrate my efforts. I casually keep up with the rest.
Concentration of efforts: Facebook and Twitter are my most active cyber spots. When I'm on deadline, it's easy to to tweet four or five times a day, link it to Facebook, than to keep up with blogging. Blogging becomes hard on deadline because I can't spare my creative brain power to write a comprehensive or slightly intelligent blog.
It's easy to respond to Facebook comments, Twitter replies and blog comments. And part of building an online presence is keeping up with dialog.
The giveaway concept: I'm just going to be honest here. This idea wears me out. One, I barely make enough money to help my household and keep up with business expenses, let alone give away books or gift baskets to keep readers interested and build an online presence. Giveaways has created a community of people who expect freebies. I've had folks sign up for my newsletter to get a chance to win. When they didn't, they removed their name.
I love giving away my author copies -- that's what they are for -- but so many authors are giving away big gifts like GPSs, iPods, gift baskets, and more. I'm not saying I won't ever do this again, but I've not found it to be productive. It's more discouraging than encouraging.
What do you think?
Building a street team or a tribe: This takes time. Little by little readers and fans begin to gather around and tell people about your work. This is the absolute best marketing. But writing books that make readers want to tell others about also takes time and energy. For me, this is my biggest focus and concern. I want to write great books. I believe the majority of my time and effort should be focused on my stories.
That is my continual gift to you. A great book.
For the release of The Sweet By and By, a street team member, April, created a Twitter account for the book. She gives away copies, tweets lines from the book, lets followers know what's up with Sara Evans or me. What a blessing she's been. She's part of our tribe.
You can't make a reader or fan create a Twitter for you, but sooner or later your fans will speak out!
Dialog with street team members is key, BTW.
But I'm not published yet: I recently spent a weekend with a bunch of writers. Between working on their craft, we talked about other things they can be doing to build their name and brand. Susie Warren and I encouraged them all to Twitter and blog.
Blogging is great for several reasons, but the key being to force you to write three, four, five times a week. Editing your blog posts trains you to write well. Blogging forces you to look at life and see beneath the surface. A good part of writing is about observing life and molding it into a story. If you can't observe enough to write a blog, you might not have enough texture and depth to write a compelling novel. Look for life's symbols and metaphors, blog about them. Figure out how to fold them into your characters.
Above all, be kind: If you're trying to build an online presence, and hope to one day see your work in print with your name on the cover, be kind to other authors! Don't blast their books. Don't snark at them in public, or private. Follow industry leaders like Michael Hyatt, Chip MacGregor, Rachelle Gardner, Steve Laube and others. Chime into conversations. If you disagree, do so intelligently. If you can't say anything nice... walk away from your computer. :)
Write reviews that edify. Write blogs that bring insight. I often blog about politics, but I try to do so in a constructive way because many of my fellow authors and readers might disagree with me.
Same with spiritual topics. My main goal is to edify Jesus. Not preach theology.
My sister blogs about her family and it's so funny. But she never puts any of them down in her posts.
What are your thoughts on building an online presence? Any additional advice? Any suggestions or thoughts?
Monday, February 22, 2010
Friday, February 19, 2010
I'm curling
We don't have TV at my house, but I've seen some of the Olympics here and there. Watching a bit of curling the other night in my Birmingham hotel.
I love watching how the players slide over the ice as they brushing the ice for the curling disk/ball. Do you think they wear special shoes?
Anyway, it looks so cool to slide over the ice.
That's me since Christmas. I've been writing and traveling, on the go pretty much since New Years.
But it's all good. Here's my curling summation.
Rewriting Dining With Joy, trip to Nashville for The Sweet By and By launch, more editing and rewriting of Joy, goal setting and fellowshipping day with Debbie Macomber, Roxanne St. Claire and Martha Powers, more editing and rewriting of Joy, finally turn in Joy and lead worship that night for our first MyHop.
Breathe, work on small changes for Songbird Novel 2, Softly and Tenderly. Fly to Birmingham to plan Songbird Novel 3 with Sara Evans and Ami McConnell, have dinner night before I leave with my lovely sorority big sis, (who is actually younger than me) Tish Stevning Patton. Home in time to clean house for arrival of Susan May Warren and Lisa Jordan.
Today, first day of My Book Therapy "Deep Thinkers" retreat.
And as I look into the future, the curling ice lane is very long! More activity to come. but God is good! How blessed I am.
I was so blessed to see Tish. It'd been 20 years since we last got together. I saw two of my best sorority buddies in the last two months. That's amazing.
We are discussing emotional layering tonight at the retreat. Follow my updates on Twitter. Otherwise, have a great weekend.
I love watching how the players slide over the ice as they brushing the ice for the curling disk/ball. Do you think they wear special shoes?
Anyway, it looks so cool to slide over the ice.
That's me since Christmas. I've been writing and traveling, on the go pretty much since New Years.
But it's all good. Here's my curling summation.
Rewriting Dining With Joy, trip to Nashville for The Sweet By and By launch, more editing and rewriting of Joy, goal setting and fellowshipping day with Debbie Macomber, Roxanne St. Claire and Martha Powers, more editing and rewriting of Joy, finally turn in Joy and lead worship that night for our first MyHop.
Breathe, work on small changes for Songbird Novel 2, Softly and Tenderly. Fly to Birmingham to plan Songbird Novel 3 with Sara Evans and Ami McConnell, have dinner night before I leave with my lovely sorority big sis, (who is actually younger than me) Tish Stevning Patton. Home in time to clean house for arrival of Susan May Warren and Lisa Jordan.
Today, first day of My Book Therapy "Deep Thinkers" retreat.
And as I look into the future, the curling ice lane is very long! More activity to come. but God is good! How blessed I am.
I was so blessed to see Tish. It'd been 20 years since we last got together. I saw two of my best sorority buddies in the last two months. That's amazing.
We are discussing emotional layering tonight at the retreat. Follow my updates on Twitter. Otherwise, have a great weekend.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Hold your breath!
I promise... new blog coming soon! Maybe tonight. But I was on another short deadline last week while recouping from Dining With Joy's deadline.
Dead. Line. Need I say more?
But I'm coming out of the mire.
Shouting all around.
Dead. Line. Need I say more?
But I'm coming out of the mire.
Shouting all around.
Sunday, February 07, 2010
Super Bowl Sunday
I love Super Bowl Sunday! We party at church with food and football. Hubby and I talked for the first time on Super Bowl Sunday. Twenty-two years ago! Love you babe!
Go Colts!
Go Colts!
Sunday, January 31, 2010
The Lyrics of our Heart
I'm digging the music and sound coming from The Jesus Culture these days. We did this song in worship this morning. It rocked our hearts.
I love it because the song is true. The lyrics reflect the truth of our hearts while drawing us into the truth of who He is!
His love never fails.
We have the same Spirit that raised Christ from the dead in us! Romans 8:11, Colossians 1:27. We don't have to be in the dark, be without joy, without comfort. In the midst of our darkest trial, He is with us.
Song lyrics reflect the heart of the songwriter. If I were to write a song it would say how in my darkest moments when I felt God was distant, He was there. How He came to me, spoke to me when I needed Him. How He delivered me from all my fears. His love never fails.
Tell me a few of the lyrics of your heart today.
I love it because the song is true. The lyrics reflect the truth of our hearts while drawing us into the truth of who He is!
His love never fails.
We have the same Spirit that raised Christ from the dead in us! Romans 8:11, Colossians 1:27. We don't have to be in the dark, be without joy, without comfort. In the midst of our darkest trial, He is with us.
Song lyrics reflect the heart of the songwriter. If I were to write a song it would say how in my darkest moments when I felt God was distant, He was there. How He came to me, spoke to me when I needed Him. How He delivered me from all my fears. His love never fails.
Tell me a few of the lyrics of your heart today.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Becca By The Book, by Laura Jensen Walker
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Born in Racine, Wisconsin (home of Western Printing and Johnson’s Wax—maker of your favorite floor care products) Laura moved to Phoenix, Arizona when she was in high school. But not being a fan of blazing heat and knowing that Uncle Sam was looking for a few good women, she enlisted in the United States Air Force shortly after graduation and spent the next five years flying a typewriter through Europe.
Her lifelong dream of writing fiction came true in Spring 2005 with the release of her first chick lit novel, Dreaming in Black & White which won the Contemporary Fiction Book of the Year from American Christian Fiction Writers. Her sophomore novel, Dreaming in Technicolor was published in Fall 2005.
Laura’s third novel, Reconstructing Natalie, chosen as the Women of Faith Novel of the Year for 2006, is the funny and poignant story of a young, single woman who gets breast cancer and how her life is reconstructed as a result. This book was born out of Laura’s cancer speaking engagements where she started meeting younger and younger women stricken with this disease—some whose husbands had left them, and others who wondered what breast cancer would do to their dating life. She wanted to write a novel that would give voice to those women. Something real. And honest. And funny.
Because although cancer isn’t funny, humor is healing.
To learn more about Laura’s latest novels, please check out her Books page.
A popular speaker and teacher at writing conferences, Laura has also been a guest on hundreds of radio and TV shows around the country including the ABC Weekend News, The 700 Club, and The Jay Thomas Morning Show.
She lives in Northern California with her Renaissance-man husband Michael, and Gracie, their piano playing dog.
ABOUT THE BOOK
At twenty-five, free-spirited Becca Daniels is still trying to figure out what she wants to be when she grows up. What Becca doesn’t want to be is bored. She craves the rush of a new experience, whether it’s an extreme sport, a shocking hair color, or a new guy. That’s why she quit her bookstore job, used her last bit of credit to go skydiving, and broke her leg.
And that’s why, grounded and grumpy, Becca bristles when teased by friends for being commitment-phobic. In response, Becca issues an outrageous wager—that she can sustain a three-month or twenty-five date relationship with the next guy who asks her out. When the guy turns out to be “churchy” Ben—definitely not Becca’s type—she gamely embarks on a hilarious series of dates that plunge her purple-haired, free-speaking, commitment-phobic self into the alien world of church potlucks and prayer meetings.
This irrepressible Getaway Girl will have you cheering her on as she “suffers” through her dates, gains perspective on her life’s purpose, and ultimately begins her greatest adventure of all.
If you'd like to read the first chapter of Becca By The Book, go HERE
Monday, January 25, 2010
The Supreme Court's Free Speech Decision
Over on Faithchick, I took a stab at explaining the Supreme Courts decision on free speech. Hop on over and take a read.
What do you think?
What do you think?
Friday, January 22, 2010
Of all gods, which one still speaks?
The Haiti earthquake. The Sir Lanka tsunami. The Florida hurricanes of '04. The Twin Towers bombing.
Disasters make us look up. Suddenly the God we ignore daily is accused, blamed and cursed. Cold, hard hearts become even more embittered at the idea of a loving God watching over us.
It's a gross misunderstanding of who He is, His plan and purpose for the universe. But there is no reason to be "in the dark."
There are 150 chapters in the Bible about the return of Jesus and the End of the Age. That's more than the entire New Testament. In Matthew 24, Jesus tells us the beginning of "birth pangs" is earthquakes, wars, rumors of wars, famine. . .
In John chapters 15, 16, 17 Jesus exhorts us about the love of the Father and to be aware and alert. He tells us what's going to happen THEN gives us the Spirit, "the Comforter" who will do what. . .
"Disclose to us ALL things."
Christian theologians paint God as silent far too often. Folks I'd consider mature believers tell me, "God doesn't speak to me."
But John 10 is clear, "My sheep hear My voice."
Let's put it into the practical. If there was a disaster in your home, and your child ran into you with wide, scared eyes, "Daddy, what happened?" You'd tell them! Maybe not every detail, but you'd say, "Baby, we had a storm and the electricity went out. But the electric company will fix it. Let's light candles."
Now she's comforted. She understands. She can boldly face the trial because she had a glimpse of what is to come.
Why would God not speak in the same manner to His Bride? He died for us! We disqualify the Cross if we say He won't speak to us, comfort us. We are Kings and Priest before Him. I don't get the thinking that "we can't know what God is up to."
I'm a Word person. I love the Word. All hearing begins in and with the Word. Don't go around speaking for God then claim you struggle in prayer and the Word. I've honed my own ear to Him by reading, praying and singing scripture.
Even more, the same Spirit that raised Christ from the dead lives in me. Romans 8:11. We can and must hear God. Yes, He is Holy, high above me, His ways are not mine, YET, He chooses me as His partner, to live in me. This is the mystery of the ages. Col 1:27. It's a divine paradox.
Our God lives and speaks. Muhammad is dead and doesn't speak. Buddah is dead and doesn't speak. Jesus is alive and speaks. His Word is living and active, sharper than a two edge sword. Heb 4:12
God speaks. If you're not hearing, ask Him to teach you. What is God saying to you?
Disasters make us look up. Suddenly the God we ignore daily is accused, blamed and cursed. Cold, hard hearts become even more embittered at the idea of a loving God watching over us.
It's a gross misunderstanding of who He is, His plan and purpose for the universe. But there is no reason to be "in the dark."
There are 150 chapters in the Bible about the return of Jesus and the End of the Age. That's more than the entire New Testament. In Matthew 24, Jesus tells us the beginning of "birth pangs" is earthquakes, wars, rumors of wars, famine. . .
In John chapters 15, 16, 17 Jesus exhorts us about the love of the Father and to be aware and alert. He tells us what's going to happen THEN gives us the Spirit, "the Comforter" who will do what. . .
"Disclose to us ALL things."
Christian theologians paint God as silent far too often. Folks I'd consider mature believers tell me, "God doesn't speak to me."
But John 10 is clear, "My sheep hear My voice."
Let's put it into the practical. If there was a disaster in your home, and your child ran into you with wide, scared eyes, "Daddy, what happened?" You'd tell them! Maybe not every detail, but you'd say, "Baby, we had a storm and the electricity went out. But the electric company will fix it. Let's light candles."
Now she's comforted. She understands. She can boldly face the trial because she had a glimpse of what is to come.
Why would God not speak in the same manner to His Bride? He died for us! We disqualify the Cross if we say He won't speak to us, comfort us. We are Kings and Priest before Him. I don't get the thinking that "we can't know what God is up to."
I'm a Word person. I love the Word. All hearing begins in and with the Word. Don't go around speaking for God then claim you struggle in prayer and the Word. I've honed my own ear to Him by reading, praying and singing scripture.
Even more, the same Spirit that raised Christ from the dead lives in me. Romans 8:11. We can and must hear God. Yes, He is Holy, high above me, His ways are not mine, YET, He chooses me as His partner, to live in me. This is the mystery of the ages. Col 1:27. It's a divine paradox.
Our God lives and speaks. Muhammad is dead and doesn't speak. Buddah is dead and doesn't speak. Jesus is alive and speaks. His Word is living and active, sharper than a two edge sword. Heb 4:12
God speaks. If you're not hearing, ask Him to teach you. What is God saying to you?
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
All the leaves are brown
I'm not sure I've ever seen this in central Florida. If I have, it's been a long time. All the leaves are brown and wilting. The grass is dead. My neighbors palm trees are slumping over.
The January cold snap with night after night dipping into freezing has turned our world brown. Plants are dying. In the spring, trees and bushes will have to be severely pruned for them to bloom again. If at all.
I can't help but think of how easily it is to allow our hearts to turn cold. Toward each other. Toward God.
Bitterness, busyness, selfish ambition, any number of things, laziness, can prevent us from keeping our hearts warm, open and yielded to the Spirit of God.
A frozen heart is a dead heart.
We must strive to keep before the flame of Jesus's love. Matthew 25 He reminds us to keep our lamps (souls) trimmed with oil (His Spirit.) Otherwise, in our hour of need, we will not be prepared.
We are all watching the outcome of the Haiti earthquake with pain and wonder. Boots on the ground in Haiti in the midst of an earthquake aftermath is not the time to cry out, "Oh, God, where are you?"
We must be crying out now, seeking His face, yielding to His will. We must be full of Him in the good times so that when and if crisis comes, we have oil remaining to burn.
Don't let your love grow cold. Don't find yourself only crying out to God in the midst of crisis. There will come a day when it will be too late.
The January cold snap with night after night dipping into freezing has turned our world brown. Plants are dying. In the spring, trees and bushes will have to be severely pruned for them to bloom again. If at all.
I can't help but think of how easily it is to allow our hearts to turn cold. Toward each other. Toward God.
Bitterness, busyness, selfish ambition, any number of things, laziness, can prevent us from keeping our hearts warm, open and yielded to the Spirit of God.
A frozen heart is a dead heart.
We must strive to keep before the flame of Jesus's love. Matthew 25 He reminds us to keep our lamps (souls) trimmed with oil (His Spirit.) Otherwise, in our hour of need, we will not be prepared.
We are all watching the outcome of the Haiti earthquake with pain and wonder. Boots on the ground in Haiti in the midst of an earthquake aftermath is not the time to cry out, "Oh, God, where are you?"
We must be crying out now, seeking His face, yielding to His will. We must be full of Him in the good times so that when and if crisis comes, we have oil remaining to burn.
Don't let your love grow cold. Don't find yourself only crying out to God in the midst of crisis. There will come a day when it will be too late.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
The Sweet By and By Launch party
Had a great time in Nashville at Davis-Kidd for The Sweet By and By launch party. Sara sang, answered questions, then we signed lots of books.I had a blast.
It was great to meet some of you I know on Facebook and Twitter, and Linda, the winner of the Fly Away contest and her friend Stephanie.
Me, April Schaffer, Sara Evans.
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Pondering
Pondering a few things today. Trying to make sense out of a situation. Believing Romans 8:28.
"You work all things together for my good!"
"You work all things together for my good!"
Saturday, January 09, 2010
A Soldier's Devotion by Cheryl Wyatt
Please welcome my friend and author, Cheryl Wyatt!A Soldiers Devotion
U.S. Air Force pararescue jumper Vince Reardon was headed to a lifesaving mission.
Until a too-pretty lawyer crashed her fancy car into his motorcycle—sidelining him for two weeks.
Vince can barely accept Valentina Russo's heartfelt apologies. Ever since his brother was wrongly convicted -- and killed in prison -- Vince has lost respect for lawyers.
But wait -- is that Val volunteering at his refuge for underprivileged kids? If Vince isn't careful, this lady of the law might just earn his respect and his heart.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Born Valentine’s Day on a naval base, Cheryl Wyatt writes military and rescue romance. Her Steeple Hill debuts earned RT Top Picks plus #1 and #4 on eHarlequin's Top 10 Most-Blogged- About-Books, lists including NYT Bestsellers. She is a Reviewers Choice Award Nominee. www.CherylWyatt. com
Amazon PURCHASE LINK
Thursday, January 07, 2010
Oh, the irony?
Is this your heart toward the Lord? Some days, I know it's mine. It makes me sad.
"Come fan the flame, Lord!"
Friday, January 01, 2010
Setting up for success over failure
I am a fan of goals. They are vital sign posts on our life road map. No goals, no plan leaves us in debt both physically and emotionally.
Far to often we let the tyranny of the urgent or the power of our weaknesses rule our lives. We want to live for the moment instead of living toward the overall plan. We let circumstances, the emotions and will of others dictate to us.
After high school I dated an FSU man (I know, what was I thinking?) who asked me to marry him. At nineteen, I wasn't ready for marriage even though I loved him. See, I had a plan. College. Career. Living on my own, becoming my own woman.
Marriage was for the "some day" the future would bring 'round. I always had this sense I would be older when I got married. Hubby proposed a few months before my (our) 31st birthday.
I made a lot of mistakes and wrong decisions in my life, but I honestly believe more bad decisions were thwarted by having plans, goals, and dreams.
As a Christian, I always consider the God factor. What is His will? What does He need and want me to do? His Kingdom come, His will be done. Yet, I'm convinced following and surrendering to God does not require me to be a limp rag, kind of muddling through life waiting for "God to speak."
God speaks way more often than we are willing to listen. But far too often, not as much as we'd want. Or in the manner we want. I don't stub my toe and ask, "God, what are you saying?" Beloved, we really need to learn to discern, be lead by the Spirit. Connect with the Spirit of God that lives inside you! Col 1:27.
For me, following God requires complete surrender, but surrender of specifics. My heart and mind, my desire for college, for marriage, for a writing career. I put it all at His feet.
I even surrendered my right to have children. He asked for it. I gave it. And in this life, He didn't return my surrender to Him like he did marriage or writing. But I'm going to live forever (Ecc 3:11) and I can't even imagine what He has in store for me in the realm of motherhood! Can't wait.
This life is a vapor. We can't get to wrapped around the axle of wealth and beauty, fame and acceptance or what others think because the age to come is beyond our comprehension. We need to live for the eternal not the temporal.
So back to goals. How can we make the most of this life so we are prepared for the next? Are you facing 2010 with a realistic view of yourself, of God? Are you like me, tend to want to do everything? After watching the One Thing Conference from Kansas City via the web, I was ready to be a full time intercessor-singer!
But God has called me to write as well as pray.
Most of our soulish eyes are bigger than our soulish stomachs. We bite off too much in January and by March are sliding down the mud hill of failure. I suggest we avoid that this year!
Here are my thoughts on setting goals for 2010.
1. Get before the Lord in prayer. Pray with your Bible open, reading and talking to God. Getting Divine inspiration from the Word.
2. Evaluate what's already on your heart. What do you love? What passions are humming beneath your skin? Answer this question: "Whenever I hear (x) my heart skips or I get glow of excitement." What's (x)? If you don't have the (x) factor, ask the Lord to awaken your heart.
3. Believe God has a destiny in Him for YOU. Believe He has called you, He loves you, He has good for you. If you don't believe it, say it, pray it until you do.
4. When you feel confident about a few things, write down your goals. One or two. I'd say no more than five major goals. Spread them out so you aren't starting all five at once. NOTE: I highly recommend you do not start dieting and exercising at the same time. If you are already doing one, sure, add the other. But if you are a couch potato intent on shedding a few pounds this year, choose one to start out: exercise or diet. Not both. You'll fail at one, then the other and quit. Unless you go on the Biggest Looser. Then you have no choice.
5. Share your goals with one or two other people for the purpose of accountability and encouragement. Cause sooner or later we all stumble along the trail.
So, what are some of your goals for 2010. Be specific. Last year, one of my goals was to complain less. I think I did pretty well. Not perfect. But I did repent a lot of complaining!
This year, I plan to be more intent about prayer and the Word. I am really focusing on being diligent with my time. I don't have TV, and we don't watch a bunch of movies so I have plenty of time to write, read and serve the Body of Christ but I seem to waste time on email and Facebook. Perhaps for me, I need a realistic plan about the part of my writing life that involves communication with readers and maintaining a cyber presence. Food for thought.
Well, there's one from me. What are you all doing?
Far to often we let the tyranny of the urgent or the power of our weaknesses rule our lives. We want to live for the moment instead of living toward the overall plan. We let circumstances, the emotions and will of others dictate to us.
After high school I dated an FSU man (I know, what was I thinking?) who asked me to marry him. At nineteen, I wasn't ready for marriage even though I loved him. See, I had a plan. College. Career. Living on my own, becoming my own woman.
Marriage was for the "some day" the future would bring 'round. I always had this sense I would be older when I got married. Hubby proposed a few months before my (our) 31st birthday.
I made a lot of mistakes and wrong decisions in my life, but I honestly believe more bad decisions were thwarted by having plans, goals, and dreams.
As a Christian, I always consider the God factor. What is His will? What does He need and want me to do? His Kingdom come, His will be done. Yet, I'm convinced following and surrendering to God does not require me to be a limp rag, kind of muddling through life waiting for "God to speak."
God speaks way more often than we are willing to listen. But far too often, not as much as we'd want. Or in the manner we want. I don't stub my toe and ask, "God, what are you saying?" Beloved, we really need to learn to discern, be lead by the Spirit. Connect with the Spirit of God that lives inside you! Col 1:27.
For me, following God requires complete surrender, but surrender of specifics. My heart and mind, my desire for college, for marriage, for a writing career. I put it all at His feet.
I even surrendered my right to have children. He asked for it. I gave it. And in this life, He didn't return my surrender to Him like he did marriage or writing. But I'm going to live forever (Ecc 3:11) and I can't even imagine what He has in store for me in the realm of motherhood! Can't wait.
This life is a vapor. We can't get to wrapped around the axle of wealth and beauty, fame and acceptance or what others think because the age to come is beyond our comprehension. We need to live for the eternal not the temporal.
So back to goals. How can we make the most of this life so we are prepared for the next? Are you facing 2010 with a realistic view of yourself, of God? Are you like me, tend to want to do everything? After watching the One Thing Conference from Kansas City via the web, I was ready to be a full time intercessor-singer!
But God has called me to write as well as pray.
Most of our soulish eyes are bigger than our soulish stomachs. We bite off too much in January and by March are sliding down the mud hill of failure. I suggest we avoid that this year!
Here are my thoughts on setting goals for 2010.
1. Get before the Lord in prayer. Pray with your Bible open, reading and talking to God. Getting Divine inspiration from the Word.
2. Evaluate what's already on your heart. What do you love? What passions are humming beneath your skin? Answer this question: "Whenever I hear (x) my heart skips or I get glow of excitement." What's (x)? If you don't have the (x) factor, ask the Lord to awaken your heart.
3. Believe God has a destiny in Him for YOU. Believe He has called you, He loves you, He has good for you. If you don't believe it, say it, pray it until you do.
4. When you feel confident about a few things, write down your goals. One or two. I'd say no more than five major goals. Spread them out so you aren't starting all five at once. NOTE: I highly recommend you do not start dieting and exercising at the same time. If you are already doing one, sure, add the other. But if you are a couch potato intent on shedding a few pounds this year, choose one to start out: exercise or diet. Not both. You'll fail at one, then the other and quit. Unless you go on the Biggest Looser. Then you have no choice.
5. Share your goals with one or two other people for the purpose of accountability and encouragement. Cause sooner or later we all stumble along the trail.
So, what are some of your goals for 2010. Be specific. Last year, one of my goals was to complain less. I think I did pretty well. Not perfect. But I did repent a lot of complaining!
This year, I plan to be more intent about prayer and the Word. I am really focusing on being diligent with my time. I don't have TV, and we don't watch a bunch of movies so I have plenty of time to write, read and serve the Body of Christ but I seem to waste time on email and Facebook. Perhaps for me, I need a realistic plan about the part of my writing life that involves communication with readers and maintaining a cyber presence. Food for thought.
Well, there's one from me. What are you all doing?
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Five "New" People who touched my life in 2009
Two days before Christmas, I met my college friend Suzanne Brubaker (nee Cantwell) at a Starbucks south of Indianapolis. We talked for 3.5 hours. Not having seen each other in 15 years or so, exchanging only Christmas and Birthday notes throughout the years, I was confident the young woman who impacted me during sorority rush 24 years ago would impact me that day.
She did. We had a blast. Meeting with her was some what of my Christmas present to myself. I looked forward to it about as much as Christmas morning. I was glad I took the time to contact her. Glad she could take the time from a busy Christmas schedule to meet me.
I felt full for the next day, having made a heart connection that had been ignored over the years. We talked about life, where we are now, what we want for the future. Spent only a few minutes rehashing college memories. It was good. One can only rehash college memories for so long.
Suzanne Brubaker touched my life in 2009.
***
Thomas Nelson contracted a new author I knew only via Twitter, Kimberly Cash Tate. We tweeted back and forth a bit before the Denver ACFW conference and I sensed a kindred spirit. I looked forward to meeting her. I was not disappointed. We hit it off, chatting while the servers cleared the lunch tables about politics and religion and the love of God. All those touchy subjects people tend to ignore.
Kim and I waded right in and flowed in the same stream. We both realized our idenity comes from Jesus and the Love He demonstrated by the Cross. Any differences in background, culture and history weren't all that magnified because we both found our core belief in Jesus. He is the one who brings up valleys and lowers mountains.
After meeting her, I was encouraged, edified and full. Kimberly Cash Tate touched my life in 2009.
***
I've known Chip MacGregor for several years through ACFW and my stints as president. Occassionally we'd exchange email barbs. He's an Oregon Ducks fan, I'm an Ohio State Buckeye. (The January 1st Rose Bowl will be the first real test in our relationship!)
In the middle of the year, the Lord began speaking to me about changes coming up in my career. Through a series of cool events, Chip became my agent in July. After a year and a half of off and on angst about my representation, walking in faith, trying to be bold and take chances, I could finally exhale in peace. I knew that I knew that I knew Chip MacGregor was my agent home.
Joy. Confidence. Rest. Simple. I felt full. Chip MacGregor touched my life in 2009.
***
Jenny B. Jones. What a cool name. An even cooler person. I'd know of Jenny through writerly circles and the fact she is another Thomas Nelson author, but it wasn't until we connected during the summer I really got to know her at any level. We chatted at the ACFW conference. We tweet back and forth. She's funny, clever and an all around unique individual that impressed me.
I was just laughing at some of her tweets and thought, "I'm glad to know her. She's brightened my life."
Jenny B. Jones touched my life in 2009.
***
RITA. Okay, so the RWA RITA Award is not technically a person. She's named after a person, but the Award is merely a gold statue. One I don't have on my shelf even though I was an award nominee. Accepting the award on behalf of my writing partner and great friend Susan May Warren was a highlight of my year. God answered my prayer to sincerely love and appreciate the winner. Yes, ladies and gents, I wanted to win. I prayed to win.
While I didn't take home the golden statue, I took home the winning of answered prayer. God deposited a joy in my heart that cannot be destroyed. Or gather dust. When I called Susie to tell her she won, the words, "I didn't win, you did," still bring tears to my eyes.
God specifically sent me to the conference by providing the money to go -- in a month! I registered in faith, feeling I was to attend. Then the money came.
If God provided for me to go, didn't that mean I was to win? Yes. But not the RITA. Something deeper in my heart that comes from genuine joy and love for the one who did win.
It's the scriptual admonition of esteeming others higher than oursevles. And God supernaturally brought me to a place I couldn't have achieved on my own. Yes! Amen.
The RITA Award touch my life in 2009.
***
Naturally others have touched my life this year. These are merely the new or reconnect ones.
My hubby continues to be a major force in my life. My writing partner and friend extraordinaire, Susie May. My editor, Ami McConnell continues to impact me. My Mom. My sister, Rebekah Gunter. My church family. The women of my Tuesday night Dream Team! Love you all. My Kansas City family: Stuart and Esther, and Cassie. My Melbourne/Palm Bay friends and family. My brothers! My writing friends! You know who y'all are.
Joan. The Gonda's. Carrie. My teenage best friend, Lorena Sikking. It was great to be in touch with her this year. My sorority "big" sister Tish Patton and I talked in January for over an hour!
Ack, if I start, I won't be able to stop.
I am blessed. How about you? Did you meet or reconnect with someone in 2009?
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Christmas Eve Eve
I'm in Indianapolis visiting family, waiting for the Big Day. I already know one present. Hubby had to ask my opinion.
I'm off to meet an old college friend for coffee, so more on that later, but what are some of your favorite Christmas memories or gifts.
Do you like to be surprised or do you prefer to help pick out your presents?
I'm off to meet an old college friend for coffee, so more on that later, but what are some of your favorite Christmas memories or gifts.
Do you like to be surprised or do you prefer to help pick out your presents?
Friday, December 11, 2009
Writing about food
I'm writing about a character who can't cook, but food is central to her world. It's challenging -- not only to write a sympathetic engaging character, but one who lives in the foodie world but does not feel apart.
In that way, Joy is very much like me. But how do I show it?
I don't get the foodie world. Watching the Food Network doesn't make me want to run to the kitchen and break out the pots and pans. Reading recipes only irritates me. Why does any dish need more than five or six ingredients?
I once tried a mac-n-cheese recipe from Pat Conroy's cookbook. Oh my gosh, what a mess. I dirties three pans, per his assembling instructions, never mind the mess on my counter. And I'm not a slob. I kept thinking, "all this for mac-n-cheese?" I never wanted to make it again. I stayed out of the kitchen for a week after that night.
I don't want to cook for cooking sake so don't ask me to add citron to a cake. I'm not going to do it. First, what is citron? Second, how is it going to enhance the chocolate taste I'm baking the cake for in the first place?
Asking me to grate a lemon rind equates to asking me to grate my own nerves.
One friend said to me, "It's like everyone is in on this great secret about food and not telling me."
Exactly!
I've read Molly Wizenberg, Judith Jones, Suzan Colon, and Julia Child memoirs with fascination. What makes their heart zing over recipes?
I love food. I love to eat. And maybe that's why I don't like cooking. Because I want to EAT what I've cooked. Weight and I are not friends. "It" wants to control me. And don't want "it" to control me.
Yet, I love the aromas of baking cakes, cookies and bread in a warmly lit fall or Christmastime house. It's comforting and homey. But whose going to eat the warm treats I bake?
Still, in the midst of it, I'd rather read or write than stand in the kitchen. I'd rather walk or bike, or frankly, I'm being honest here, I'd rather Drive-thru.
In the midst of my writing and research, I have yet to connect with the heart and love for food as those I've read. God didn't give me that gene. I understand what the writers are saying and I appreciate every fine detail, but my emotions are not moved.
Growing up, I was never fascinated with the kitchen or watching my mom or grandmothers cook. In fact, I avoided the kitchen at all cost fearful they'd put me to work. One cannot cook without dirtying a few pots and pans. I never liked doing dishes either until college. Now I'd rather clean than cook.
Lest you start the violin strings for my hubby, I do cook. I can't afford not to! But cooking must not involve a recipe. If it does, no more than six maybe seven ingredients and nothing that I cannot pronounce. It's just not worth it to me. I'm not "into" it.
I bake. I can make mean chocolate chip-peanut butter chip cookies. I have a few tricks for making a box cake that is yummy. However, I can eat the whole thing myself, so let's not go there.
My can opener is my number one tool and the Rachael Ray knife I use to cut onions. I do love onions.
So, back to my character. There's something about food she does love, something she is longing and looking for, and it will spill out on the pages. . . eventually.
What about you? Do you cook? Do you like to cook? What are your favorite food memories?
In that way, Joy is very much like me. But how do I show it?
I don't get the foodie world. Watching the Food Network doesn't make me want to run to the kitchen and break out the pots and pans. Reading recipes only irritates me. Why does any dish need more than five or six ingredients?
I once tried a mac-n-cheese recipe from Pat Conroy's cookbook. Oh my gosh, what a mess. I dirties three pans, per his assembling instructions, never mind the mess on my counter. And I'm not a slob. I kept thinking, "all this for mac-n-cheese?" I never wanted to make it again. I stayed out of the kitchen for a week after that night.
I don't want to cook for cooking sake so don't ask me to add citron to a cake. I'm not going to do it. First, what is citron? Second, how is it going to enhance the chocolate taste I'm baking the cake for in the first place?
Asking me to grate a lemon rind equates to asking me to grate my own nerves.
One friend said to me, "It's like everyone is in on this great secret about food and not telling me."
Exactly!
I've read Molly Wizenberg, Judith Jones, Suzan Colon, and Julia Child memoirs with fascination. What makes their heart zing over recipes?
I love food. I love to eat. And maybe that's why I don't like cooking. Because I want to EAT what I've cooked. Weight and I are not friends. "It" wants to control me. And don't want "it" to control me.
Yet, I love the aromas of baking cakes, cookies and bread in a warmly lit fall or Christmastime house. It's comforting and homey. But whose going to eat the warm treats I bake?
Still, in the midst of it, I'd rather read or write than stand in the kitchen. I'd rather walk or bike, or frankly, I'm being honest here, I'd rather Drive-thru.
In the midst of my writing and research, I have yet to connect with the heart and love for food as those I've read. God didn't give me that gene. I understand what the writers are saying and I appreciate every fine detail, but my emotions are not moved.
Growing up, I was never fascinated with the kitchen or watching my mom or grandmothers cook. In fact, I avoided the kitchen at all cost fearful they'd put me to work. One cannot cook without dirtying a few pots and pans. I never liked doing dishes either until college. Now I'd rather clean than cook.
Lest you start the violin strings for my hubby, I do cook. I can't afford not to! But cooking must not involve a recipe. If it does, no more than six maybe seven ingredients and nothing that I cannot pronounce. It's just not worth it to me. I'm not "into" it.
I bake. I can make mean chocolate chip-peanut butter chip cookies. I have a few tricks for making a box cake that is yummy. However, I can eat the whole thing myself, so let's not go there.
My can opener is my number one tool and the Rachael Ray knife I use to cut onions. I do love onions.
So, back to my character. There's something about food she does love, something she is longing and looking for, and it will spill out on the pages. . . eventually.
What about you? Do you cook? Do you like to cook? What are your favorite food memories?
Tuesday, December 08, 2009
Just how good is good?
The American Humanist society called for all who don't believe in God at Christmas not to worry. Just be "good for goodness sake." My hubby took the time to craft some thoughts in response. The floor is yours, babe.
I have a few questions. Can someone be good just for the sake of being good?
In an isolated circumstance, sure. Long term, I don’t think so. I know I can’t. But I don’t feel bad because the apostle Paul, whom Jesus appeared to and who was caught up into heaven, couldn’t be good either (Rom 7:19).
The question is how good do you have to be to be good? Who gets to define “good” in the absence of God?
Does the definition change with time, culture or circumstances? Is there one definition, or do we each get our own? At some point, does the discussion become meaningless in the absence of absolute standards?
So where would we find absolute standards to measure good? Jesus said, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God.” (Mk 10:18)
It’s self-evident. You can’t be good unless you know what good is, and only someone who is good can tell you.
By the way, why even bother to be good if being bad is more fun...unless of course we’ll be responsible at some point to someone who is good. Something to think about.
Bottom line; not only do I need God to be good, I need God to even want to be good.
P.S. This has nothing to do with getting to heaven. For that you have to be perfect.
Friday, December 04, 2009
Monterey Memories by Gail Martin
Please welcome my friend and ACFW Advisor, Gail Martin. Since I've been striving to become an author, Gail has been successfully publishing great romance novels. I'm happy to have her featured today!MONTEREY MEMORIES - is set in the beautiful Monterey area in the central coast of California. The Barbour anthology includes the novels And Baby Makes Five, Garlic and Roses and Butterfly Trees.
Book Description
Walk the streets and countryside of Monterey, California, with three couples who are surprised by love in the midst of their busy lives. Chad helps Felisa when she goes into labor in his lettuce field. Juli meets Alan while volunteering at a soup kitchen. Ross takes an overdue vacation at Alissa’s bed-and-breakfast. Can busy people slow down enough to realize the love God has brought into their lives?
Reviews from AMAZON
Monterey Memories, an anthology, is a must buy. I truly love this book. In each of the three novels, set in the central coast of California, Gail writes of God's love with such ease and weaves His love throughout each story.
We see how faith and growth in the Word affects every aspect of the characters lives. Everyday normal people with trials and decisions, which we too, can identify. From trust, or acceptance to forgiveness, each of the story's characters learn to lean on God through their faith.
I'm adding this book to my gift list for friends and family. Who wouldn't want to find this warm, engrossing book in their stocking at Christmas? Or simply a gift to share.
Reviewer Carolyn J. Devaney
About Gail:
Multi-award- winning novelist, Gail Gaymer Martin is the author of forty-three novels with three million books in print. Her novels have received seven national awards and was presented the Favorite Heartsong Presents Author Award for 2008. She writes for Steeple Hill, Barbour Publishing, and is the author of Writing the Christian Romance from Writers Digest. Gail is a co-founder of American Christian Fiction Writers and a popular keynote speaker and workshop presenter at conferences across the U.S. www.gailmartin. com.
Purchase the novel is bookstores everywhere or click this link to purchase on Amazon
Wednesday, December 02, 2009
I never did get this one
In '97, I was working at a software company as an product tester. The engineers built the software, I tested it.
In those days, WYSIWYG display was becoming imparitive for any program. "What You See Is What You Get." It was no longer acceptable to have plain text on the screen. Yet, the company's premier product I was working on, didn't have WYSIWYG.
The sales team hammered the table. "We need WYSIWYG. All our competitors have it."
Sometimes you have to wonder about engineers. They can be so line upon line, sequential, nervous to step outside the lines.
The Veep of Engineering just couldn't or wouldn't dedicate the resources to developing a WYSIWYG display. The engineers were elbow deep in other development aspects of the program. WYSIWYG wasn't getting done.
WYSIWYG meant that when a sales rep in the classified advertising department of a newspaper entered an ad for a customer, it would appear on her screen as it would in the paper. She could fax the ad to the customer. Spiffy.
But our slick ole product couldn't do that particular function. A few engineers hacked at WYSIWYG coding, but produced a sloppy product. Crashed the program. Made taking an ad incredibly slow.
So, the Veep of Engineering decided to hire someone to do the job. An former colleague who hadn't written code in several years. She didn't know the Mircosoft tools we used. She didn't know C++. She didn't know our product. Talk about disadvantage.
I have to tell you, it was painful to watch her work. She was lost. So very lost. And the product was a monster, I mean a monster of code.
But poor new-engineer worked faithfully. Accomplished very little. And within six months had another job.
One of the lead engineers took over coding for WYSIWYG and had something working and demonstrable within a few weeks.
It continues to baffle me why those in charge assigned a complete neophyte to such an important process. We need this function to sell the product. Yet, all the Veep could see was the schedule already set and she wasn't leaving her path.
I didn't get it. Still don't. But that's me.
In those days, WYSIWYG display was becoming imparitive for any program. "What You See Is What You Get." It was no longer acceptable to have plain text on the screen. Yet, the company's premier product I was working on, didn't have WYSIWYG.
The sales team hammered the table. "We need WYSIWYG. All our competitors have it."
Sometimes you have to wonder about engineers. They can be so line upon line, sequential, nervous to step outside the lines.
The Veep of Engineering just couldn't or wouldn't dedicate the resources to developing a WYSIWYG display. The engineers were elbow deep in other development aspects of the program. WYSIWYG wasn't getting done.
WYSIWYG meant that when a sales rep in the classified advertising department of a newspaper entered an ad for a customer, it would appear on her screen as it would in the paper. She could fax the ad to the customer. Spiffy.
But our slick ole product couldn't do that particular function. A few engineers hacked at WYSIWYG coding, but produced a sloppy product. Crashed the program. Made taking an ad incredibly slow.
So, the Veep of Engineering decided to hire someone to do the job. An former colleague who hadn't written code in several years. She didn't know the Mircosoft tools we used. She didn't know C++. She didn't know our product. Talk about disadvantage.
I have to tell you, it was painful to watch her work. She was lost. So very lost. And the product was a monster, I mean a monster of code.
But poor new-engineer worked faithfully. Accomplished very little. And within six months had another job.
One of the lead engineers took over coding for WYSIWYG and had something working and demonstrable within a few weeks.
It continues to baffle me why those in charge assigned a complete neophyte to such an important process. We need this function to sell the product. Yet, all the Veep could see was the schedule already set and she wasn't leaving her path.
I didn't get it. Still don't. But that's me.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Dancing with the Stars and Kellie Osbourne
In Kansas City, there's an awakening happening among the youth which has spread to students at Wheaton and Asbury.God is healing teens and twenty-somethings of self-hate, depression, breaking off shame and condemnation that took up residents as a result of sexual sin or abuse.
Awakening.
People who've known Jesus for years as Savior but never felt His love are experiencing His tangible embrace. Let it increase, Lord.
Yesterday I watched the finale of Dancing With the Stars online. As a long ago Donny Osmond fan... well, you know.
But the finalist who impacted me was Kelly Osbourne. I teared up during her flashback/diary scenes, or when she finished a dance and ran over to hug her father, Ozzie.
Even recounting what I felt to my Hubby, I teared up. What was God speaking to me through Kelly? What was His heart toward her? Does it relate to the awakening going on?
Kelly entered Dancing With The Stars as an unsure girl. She wasn't confident she could do it. Convinced she'd be outed on the first round. Making it to the end seemed impossible to her.
But as she grew in confidence, survived one elimination after another, her heart came alive. She began to shine. Her weak confidence took on a spark and bloomed toward strength.
If nothing else, Kelly realized SHE could do way more than she imagined. She discovered a part of herself she didn't believe existed.
The daughter of a rocker with fame and money at her disposal was locked down with insecurity. One would think she'd have every advantage to learn dancing, art, confidence and composure.
But here she was, as weak as each one of us.
As the love of her dance partner, the judges and the viewing audience embraced her, Kelly Osbourne came to KNOW she was much more than she ever imagined.
My tears, I think, reflected God's heart in that Kelly abounded in love and discovered it's power. He loved seeing her discover who she could become.
Philippians 1:9 - 10 Paul prays that we would abound in love so we could grow in knowledge and discernment.
Love is more than emotions and feelings. It's knowledge. Truth. Understanding. Make no mistake, in Kelly's moment of grace God's heart may have been moved, but she needs to know Jesus to enter into the fullness of God.
Should she live a happy, successful life as a result of her DWTS confidence, I'm happy for her. But her joy will end in this life. She must know Jesus for her joy to be complete.
Paul writes if we give all to the poor, give our bodies to be burned but don't have Love, don't have Jesus, it's a big honking, annoying noise. (1 Corinthians 13)
The poor need us. The poor in spirit, the poor in heart. They need our time and money, our aid and compassion, but above all, they need Jesus. How tragic for one to be desolate and poor in this life, then die and enter into eternity without knowing Jesus.
Love others, preach Christ.
Kelly Osbourne, I pray you come to know Jesus, the living Lord, the One who died for you, as your Savior. I pray this moment as a Star ignites your heart to seek true love. I pray your moment in the light brings you to true Light.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Eternity On Our Hearts
The summer I was fifteen, life opened up for me. I was no longer in the geeky, chubby young teen stage, but a lean, older, trying-to-be-confident teen.
I'd completed my first year as a cashier for Publix and finally, I was allowed to leave the Express Lane and work a big register. Woo hoo. You do not know how much this meant to me! I no longer worked 11 - 2pm but 5 - 9pm. I'd arrived.
I'd also caught the attention of two part-time stockman, Pete Ramirez and Kevin Rattigan. They flirted and winked, smiled and complimented. My unsure confidence about my potential beauty or lack there of, soared. Other started to notice me too. (Pretty funny stories ensued, but later.)
I'd kind of been dating my brother's friend (and mine) but when these older "men" turned their attention to me, the other guy didn't have quite the same appeal. Fickle are the emotions of a fifteen year old.
I fell pretty hard for the dark eyed, dark haired Pete with his amazing smile and muscular frame. And he played hard to get for a really long time. He'd lure me close, then push me away. The entire store was involved in our drama. From the manager on down. Pete liked me but never asked me out.
I've blogged about that ordeal on these pages before, so I won't bore you with the recap. But finally, I'd turned sixteen and after lo so many months, he asked me out. We had four months together before my family moved from south to north Florida.
But I thought I was in love, thought he was the one. Then he wasn't the one and I met someone else. And another someone else. I went to college and met lots of guys. Though I didn't think any of them were "the one" I was looking, waiting, wondering.
When I met Hubby, all the waiting and wondering stopped. Recurring dreams about running out of my wedding, ended.
Looking back, I'm so glad I didn't commit my life to my sixteen-year-old female emotions. I know it's worked for many, many couples, but life still had a journey for me.
At sixteen, that journey was hard to see, hard to imagine. Sometimes we commit to a person or a job, or a way of life because we just can't see beyond the moment.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 tells us God has written eternity on our hearts. In other words, it is within our very core to believe, know and trust that there is a life after this one. Eternity. In our hardest moment, on our toughest days, we can look up and believe God that an infinitely much better life is coming.
Based on the understanding I would one day be married to the man God had for me, I calculated my choices and my actions. I modified my behavior for the life I wanted to live not just in the moment, but five and ten years down the road.
I wanted a career, so I studied and went to college. I wanted to earn a good living, so I worked hard on my jobs.
We must apply the same to the Next Life. Don't live just for today, but for the era when this age will end and Jesus will come again, ushering in a new era, a new age, one that goes on for Eternity.
So what you're not rich in this life. You have all of eternity to become rich. So what you've given up a few meals for fasting, or a few television programs to be on your face before the Lord in prayer. Those heart motions will be rewarded by Jesus.
Hollywood will not take any of us into eternity. McDonalds, and y'all know I love McDonalds, will not fix my ills, or fix my place in the next life.
But a postured heart toward the Lord will. Look, I'm not saying go all religious and not live this life. Please. LIVE IT! I am. This life is my internship for the next. And frankly, I want a good showing.
I am not saved or justified by my works, no, no, hear me, it's all on Jesus and the work of the Cross. But what I do with my time, words, money and emotions IS on me. Those are the things I can "take with me."
I write because Jesus put it in my heart. I'm writing out of both love and obedience. I want to be a writer in the Kingdom, you know?
So, consider your thoughts and emotions? Are you too wrapped up in the "now" to consider the future? Are you in love with your "fifteen-year-old boyfriend" and truncating all your possibilities and potential?
Hear: fifteen year old boyfriend is a metaphor!
Pray to understand the beauty and value of eternity being written on your heart. Then walk in it.
I'd completed my first year as a cashier for Publix and finally, I was allowed to leave the Express Lane and work a big register. Woo hoo. You do not know how much this meant to me! I no longer worked 11 - 2pm but 5 - 9pm. I'd arrived.
I'd also caught the attention of two part-time stockman, Pete Ramirez and Kevin Rattigan. They flirted and winked, smiled and complimented. My unsure confidence about my potential beauty or lack there of, soared. Other started to notice me too. (Pretty funny stories ensued, but later.)
I'd kind of been dating my brother's friend (and mine) but when these older "men" turned their attention to me, the other guy didn't have quite the same appeal. Fickle are the emotions of a fifteen year old.
I fell pretty hard for the dark eyed, dark haired Pete with his amazing smile and muscular frame. And he played hard to get for a really long time. He'd lure me close, then push me away. The entire store was involved in our drama. From the manager on down. Pete liked me but never asked me out.
I've blogged about that ordeal on these pages before, so I won't bore you with the recap. But finally, I'd turned sixteen and after lo so many months, he asked me out. We had four months together before my family moved from south to north Florida.
But I thought I was in love, thought he was the one. Then he wasn't the one and I met someone else. And another someone else. I went to college and met lots of guys. Though I didn't think any of them were "the one" I was looking, waiting, wondering.
When I met Hubby, all the waiting and wondering stopped. Recurring dreams about running out of my wedding, ended.
Looking back, I'm so glad I didn't commit my life to my sixteen-year-old female emotions. I know it's worked for many, many couples, but life still had a journey for me.
At sixteen, that journey was hard to see, hard to imagine. Sometimes we commit to a person or a job, or a way of life because we just can't see beyond the moment.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 tells us God has written eternity on our hearts. In other words, it is within our very core to believe, know and trust that there is a life after this one. Eternity. In our hardest moment, on our toughest days, we can look up and believe God that an infinitely much better life is coming.
Based on the understanding I would one day be married to the man God had for me, I calculated my choices and my actions. I modified my behavior for the life I wanted to live not just in the moment, but five and ten years down the road.
I wanted a career, so I studied and went to college. I wanted to earn a good living, so I worked hard on my jobs.
We must apply the same to the Next Life. Don't live just for today, but for the era when this age will end and Jesus will come again, ushering in a new era, a new age, one that goes on for Eternity.
So what you're not rich in this life. You have all of eternity to become rich. So what you've given up a few meals for fasting, or a few television programs to be on your face before the Lord in prayer. Those heart motions will be rewarded by Jesus.
Hollywood will not take any of us into eternity. McDonalds, and y'all know I love McDonalds, will not fix my ills, or fix my place in the next life.
But a postured heart toward the Lord will. Look, I'm not saying go all religious and not live this life. Please. LIVE IT! I am. This life is my internship for the next. And frankly, I want a good showing.
I am not saved or justified by my works, no, no, hear me, it's all on Jesus and the work of the Cross. But what I do with my time, words, money and emotions IS on me. Those are the things I can "take with me."
I write because Jesus put it in my heart. I'm writing out of both love and obedience. I want to be a writer in the Kingdom, you know?
So, consider your thoughts and emotions? Are you too wrapped up in the "now" to consider the future? Are you in love with your "fifteen-year-old boyfriend" and truncating all your possibilities and potential?
Hear: fifteen year old boyfriend is a metaphor!
Pray to understand the beauty and value of eternity being written on your heart. Then walk in it.
Friday, November 20, 2009
The Great Christmas Bowl by Susan May Warren
Okay, let me tell you my version of how this book came about. A few Novembers ago were in Nashville to attend our friend Anne Horch's (nee Goldsmith) wedding.
Friday night, Susie tuned into her son's football game via the Internet. His team was in the championships. Saturday afternoon, as we got ready for the wedding, I watched the Ohio State-Michigan game.
Both my brother and husband texted me the score during the wedding. (Sorry, Anne, but it was a lovely, moving wedding! I loved being there!)
So, Suz and I were of a football mind. On the way to the wedding, we started brainstorming about a football mom. We yakked back and forth the rest of the night, turning to each other during the reception, "What if?" And argued on the way to my car to go back to our hotel who would write the book first.
"Whoever goes home and writes the book gets it," Susie said.
Well, I was doomed. I knew I was doomed. I only hoped she wouldn't really write it. She did. In two weeks. Amazing. But from the beginning, this was her story. She is the football Mom. I'm only the football fanatic.
This is a great book straight from Susie's heart with a fragrance of her real life. Please, buy this book for your friends, for the office gift party, the staff exchange. I think it will become a Christmas classic.
Here's a word from Susie about the book:
Friday night, Susie tuned into her son's football game via the Internet. His team was in the championships. Saturday afternoon, as we got ready for the wedding, I watched the Ohio State-Michigan game.
Both my brother and husband texted me the score during the wedding. (Sorry, Anne, but it was a lovely, moving wedding! I loved being there!)
So, Suz and I were of a football mind. On the way to the wedding, we started brainstorming about a football mom. We yakked back and forth the rest of the night, turning to each other during the reception, "What if?" And argued on the way to my car to go back to our hotel who would write the book first.
"Whoever goes home and writes the book gets it," Susie said.
Well, I was doomed. I knew I was doomed. I only hoped she wouldn't really write it. She did. In two weeks. Amazing. But from the beginning, this was her story. She is the football Mom. I'm only the football fanatic.
This is a great book straight from Susie's heart with a fragrance of her real life. Please, buy this book for your friends, for the office gift party, the staff exchange. I think it will become a Christmas classic.
Here's a word from Susie about the book:
Shoot...football season is over. I'm so sad....as we all know, I love Football...
So much so that I wrote a football story! Okay, it's not just about football. It's about Christmas. And small town life. And church Christmas Teas. And family....and traditions. And the crazy things we do for each other. Basically my favorite things about the season.
I love Christmas stories - and every year I read aloud to my kids (this year my college kid might be too old), the Greatest Christmas Pageant Ever. And recently Dave Barry's, The Shephard, the Angel and Walter the Christmas Miracle Dog. (sooo funny). I wanted to write my own Christmas Classic.
So, I did. Well, at least I HOPE it is a Christmas classic. Check it out HERE!
Are you in ministry? Want a cool bulletin insert--flyer for the GCB?
And don't forget the cool CONTEST we're running this fall! It's a recipe exchange!! Send us your favorite Christmas recipe and a cool story - we'll publish it on the blog, and sign you up to get a preview copy of my new book (a world war 2 epic!) And/or a cool Harry and David Gift basket!
Warren’s tender holiday novella invokes both laughter and some sweet tears. The vivid portrayal of family connections and football fervor will bring the Christmas spirit to everyone. (Romantic Times)
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Exciting things coming up!
Just got off the phone with the great marketing and promotions team at Thomas Nelson and they have some fun and exciting things lining up for the release of The Sweet By and By.
If any of you have a review blog or book blog, let me know, we might be able to give you an influencer copy of the book.
Also, keep an eye out for deets on my Fan Page Birthday Party where YOU my guest will have a chance to win prizes. Why not? All y'all bless me throughout the year.
Steadily working on my own book before diving back into book three with Sara. My protagonists, Joy and Spear, are taking shape and I'm hewing out their story.
Did you see The Proposal? Remember when Drew was at hacking away at the old canoe in the front yard after a argument with his dad? Yeah, that's me and this book.
I think the pressure is really internal. I'm nervous I won't write a good enough book. And need to just surrender it to Jesus.
Here's one of my favorite lines. And it so works. "Jesus, You have a book to write. What do You need me to do?"
Stay tuned for more exciting details here.
If any of you have a review blog or book blog, let me know, we might be able to give you an influencer copy of the book.
Also, keep an eye out for deets on my Fan Page Birthday Party where YOU my guest will have a chance to win prizes. Why not? All y'all bless me throughout the year.
Steadily working on my own book before diving back into book three with Sara. My protagonists, Joy and Spear, are taking shape and I'm hewing out their story.
Did you see The Proposal? Remember when Drew was at hacking away at the old canoe in the front yard after a argument with his dad? Yeah, that's me and this book.
I think the pressure is really internal. I'm nervous I won't write a good enough book. And need to just surrender it to Jesus.
Here's one of my favorite lines. And it so works. "Jesus, You have a book to write. What do You need me to do?"
Stay tuned for more exciting details here.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Thirty-five years ago in November
Thirty-five years ago this month, we moved from Lexington, KY to Homestead, FL. I was a few weeks from turning fourteen, a recent victim of the Blow Cut hair style, and a little overweight from an affinity for saltines and sweet tea.
November in Florida is beautiful as the heat and humidity wane and the holiday season rolls in. But thirty-five years ago it was odd, hot, and far away from my "world." I felt like I'd moved to the end of the earth.
I had culture shock going from a suburban Lexington Junior High to one all classes and races of kids. I had to learn their lingo and culture. I stood at the bus stop sweating in my pants and short sleeve top while my bus stop mates wore fur lined coats. It was the first time I'd ever been asked, "Where you stay at?"
My classes ran from noon to five p.m. The hallways were covered sidewalks or opened into courtyards.
Riding my bike this afternoon a scent on the breeze reminded me of those early days in Homestead. For a second I remembered how odd and weird it felt to be in a scene with so much green and sunshine when my setting should be cold, grey and pregnant with snow.
It was a long time ago. My parents were more than a decade younger than I am now. They loaded up five kids and moved to pursue their dreams.
Within a year of that move, I had a couple of best friends. I'd shed those extra pounds, exchanged octagon wire rims for contact lens and eventually got a job at Publix. I got a little bit prettier. Had a crush on a guy named Joe, then a guy named Pete. And had infinitely better hair. ;)
Looking out my front windows, soft breeze in the leaves, golden light on the lawn, I'm glad. I'm content. Life is good.
November in Florida is beautiful as the heat and humidity wane and the holiday season rolls in. But thirty-five years ago it was odd, hot, and far away from my "world." I felt like I'd moved to the end of the earth.
I had culture shock going from a suburban Lexington Junior High to one all classes and races of kids. I had to learn their lingo and culture. I stood at the bus stop sweating in my pants and short sleeve top while my bus stop mates wore fur lined coats. It was the first time I'd ever been asked, "Where you stay at?"
My classes ran from noon to five p.m. The hallways were covered sidewalks or opened into courtyards.
Riding my bike this afternoon a scent on the breeze reminded me of those early days in Homestead. For a second I remembered how odd and weird it felt to be in a scene with so much green and sunshine when my setting should be cold, grey and pregnant with snow.
It was a long time ago. My parents were more than a decade younger than I am now. They loaded up five kids and moved to pursue their dreams.
Within a year of that move, I had a couple of best friends. I'd shed those extra pounds, exchanged octagon wire rims for contact lens and eventually got a job at Publix. I got a little bit prettier. Had a crush on a guy named Joe, then a guy named Pete. And had infinitely better hair. ;)
Looking out my front windows, soft breeze in the leaves, golden light on the lawn, I'm glad. I'm content. Life is good.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
The lovely, gracious and talented Robin Lee Hatcher
FIT TO BE TIED by Robin Lee Hatcher"A master of lively historical romances, Hatcher demonstrates an expert ability to craft spunky, unlikely heroines who go against the tide of the times in which they live, making for fun, exciting stories. She also pays close attention to historical detail. This second series entry (after A Vote of Confidence) is highly recommended for readers of inspirational and historical romances and women's fiction." -- Library Journal
Who says a woman can’t do a man’s job?
Cleo Arlington dresses like a cowboy, is fearless and fun-loving, and can ride, rope, and wrangle a horse as well as any man. In 1916, however, those talents aren’t what most young women aspire to. But Cleo isn’t most women. Twenty-nine years old and single, Cleo loves life on her father’s Idaho ranch. Still, she hopes someday to marry and have children.
Enter Sherwood Statham, an English aristocrat whose father has sentenced him to a year of work in America to “straighten him out.” Sherwood, who expected a desk job at a posh spa, isn’t happy to be stuck on an Idaho ranch. And he has no idea how to handle Cleo, who’s been challenged with transforming this uptight playboy into a down-home cowboy.
Just about everything either of them says or does leaves the other, well, fit to be tied. And though Cleo believes God’s plan for her includes a husband, it couldn’t possibly be Sherwood Statham. Could it
About RobinBest-selling novelist Robin Lee Hatcher is known for her heartwarming and emotionally charged stories of faith, courage, and love. She makes her home in Idaho where she enjoys spending time with her family and her high-maintenance Papillon, Poppet.
A Note from Robin
The Sisters of Bethlehem Springs series sprang from the question: Who says a woman can't do a man's job? And I can't fully express just how much fun I've had looking for the answer through the eyes of my heroines in this series. Although I have no favorites among the novels I've written (each were special to me at the time I wrote them), I do have some favorite characters. Cleo Arlington is one of them. I love her for her strong faith, for her quirky turns of phrase, for her confidence with horses and her lack of confidence with men, even for her impatience with Sherwood, the English aristocrat that she's supposed to turn into a cowboy. I've been so delighted that readers have taken her into their hearts the way they have. I hope you'll feel the same way about her.
*****************************
View the book trailer here
Read an excerpt of FIT TO BE TIED
RH: I have the book at the top of my To Be Read pile. The opening chapter was engaging and fun. Another winner from Robin.
RH: I have the book at the top of my To Be Read pile. The opening chapter was engaging and fun. Another winner from Robin.
Friday, November 06, 2009
Just the two of us
In my house, it's just my Hubby and me. It's quite. Peaceful. Calm.
A few years ago, we had a couple of dogs that stirred up the atmosphere, but the older one died three years ago. Then his son died last August. Now we just have lovely little Lola, a mini Schnauzer and Red, a very old and loud cat.
My writer friends, my sister, my sister-in-law have family blogs, detailing things their children do that will have you rolling on the floor, laughing. Then there's the Pioneer Woman's blog. Puts us ALL to shame.
I don't have any life-at-home anecdotes. Seriously, do you want me to detail how Lola jumps in my lap every time we drive to a place she's never been (McDonalds is really old news to her now. And Publix.) and smashes my Diet Coke, spilling it into my console. I didn't think so.
I could tell you about a dream where a man I only knew by face entered the dream, began to pray in a way that sparked the song of the Lord in me and an entire room came to attention. I met him last week when I saw him in a book store in Kansas City. I recognized him from the back.
I could share how I can't even make an apple crumb dish from a PRE-MIXED package because I added too much butter. Hey, it melted when I tried to soften it in the oven. I had to add it or throw it away. Perfectly good butter. No can do.
Let's see. The carpets were cleaned today. True excitement there.
Got my hair done. Let's see. Ate warmed up Dominoes pizza for dinner. Am writing a book. Now you're talking. . . now you're talking.
A few years ago, we had a couple of dogs that stirred up the atmosphere, but the older one died three years ago. Then his son died last August. Now we just have lovely little Lola, a mini Schnauzer and Red, a very old and loud cat.
My writer friends, my sister, my sister-in-law have family blogs, detailing things their children do that will have you rolling on the floor, laughing. Then there's the Pioneer Woman's blog. Puts us ALL to shame.
I don't have any life-at-home anecdotes. Seriously, do you want me to detail how Lola jumps in my lap every time we drive to a place she's never been (McDonalds is really old news to her now. And Publix.) and smashes my Diet Coke, spilling it into my console. I didn't think so.
I could tell you about a dream where a man I only knew by face entered the dream, began to pray in a way that sparked the song of the Lord in me and an entire room came to attention. I met him last week when I saw him in a book store in Kansas City. I recognized him from the back.
I could share how I can't even make an apple crumb dish from a PRE-MIXED package because I added too much butter. Hey, it melted when I tried to soften it in the oven. I had to add it or throw it away. Perfectly good butter. No can do.
Let's see. The carpets were cleaned today. True excitement there.
Got my hair done. Let's see. Ate warmed up Dominoes pizza for dinner. Am writing a book. Now you're talking. . . now you're talking.
Sunday, November 01, 2009
Umph, climbing back up on the blogging band wagon
I fell off again. Thunk! Did you hear it?I was trying to be good, diligent, writing my next novel without distraction. I couldn't bring myself to give up words. And emotion.
Not that blogging is not worth my time, effort and good words, more like whenever I make a bit of head way on my story, I pop over to a blog or email and drain the emotional energy it takes to write.
I was in Kansas City last week. My great idea to write and prayer didn't turn out as I'd imagined.
In my mind's eye, I'd go to the prayer room in the morning, then write in the afternoons. But I was struggling with the story and decided to give the book my best and first-morning creativity.
Being in the prayer room required a different kind of emotion and energy. Between the worship and the prayers being offered corporately, I was pulled into the room to do what it was designed to do -- engage in intercession.
I felt guilty for not writing, then I felt guilty for not praying. So, I went to the coffee shop. Noisy. Naturally. All the held-in conversations from the prayer room were let loose in the coffee shop. I did get some writing done in there, but I also ran into folks I knew, (Hey Don and Alberto!) wanted to say a quick hello.
I holed up in Cassie's apartment one afternoon. Then locked down in Stuart and Esther's basement (a nice room down there) for a few nights. But, they are good friends and it'd been awhile since I'd seen them and conversation was impossible to avoid.
I was also story-STUCK. Very stuck. Not sure how to unscramble and put the plot back together. Susie May and I plotted Wednesday afternoon. Read more about it here.
Most of the time, I felt out of my element. I pushed, wrote, hated half of every word, and decided my experiment didn't work out as well as I'd hoped. No one's fault. Just a lesson learned.
I did love spending time with my friend Julia, my girl Cassie and dear ones, Stuart and Esther. Also caught up with the Foix's and Nayomi and her daughter. Got to say hello to one of my favorite worship leaders, Justin Rizzo, and sat in some amazing intercession sets.
On Friday just before retiring to Stu and Es's place for the night, and preparing to leave Saturday morning, Es and I went into the bookstore. Wanted to get a t-shirt for Tony. As I was heading to the check out, I saw a man I recognized but did not know.
A few months ago I had a dream about intercession at Church on the Rock. This man walked up the prayer mike, began praying with a clear, distinct sound. I began to sing the same kind of sound.
I didn't know who he was nor could I describe him in any way to those who might. But there he was in the bookstore! I asked his name then shared the dream. While I'm not sure all the Lord is doing with the dream, I was so blessed to meet the man who helped deliver such a clear sound of the Lord.
Saturday I flew home without incident. Spent time on the plane meditating on my story. Susie May suggested my life is too good of a place to relate to my heroine. She's right. I need to dig deep and understand where she's coming from and what's going on in her life, in her heart.
So, we are into fall. The nights grow darker earlier. It's cozy and peaceful. While I'm not sure of what my time in KC produced, or how God will use it, I'm confident He works all things together for good.
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