My car's in the shop, thus I've been thrust into the Dunkin Donuts next door to wait and work.
So far, resisting donuts has been easy. I do love a good donut, but hate the fat-and-I'm-still-hungry feeling that follows. All. Day.
Tomorrow I take off for Tennessee to see my mom, youngest brother and youngest sister and their broods. I had a screw in my left side tires -- front and back -- and am so grateful for the discovery before I took off up I-75. Can you imagine?
Remember the flat tire trip of September 6, 2009?
Hubby is teaching so he can't go along, but Lola will be riding shot gun. Traveling with my dog. When did I get this age?
Thinking a lot lately about God's goodness. Just feeling and sensing His faithfulness. It's amazing to raise my hand in church on Sunday when the preacher asked, "Who's living out their destiny?"
Me.
But you know, not every thing has turned out like I'd imagined, growing up, a girl with dreams. I never pictured myself barren, childless. I never imagined I'd only get to see family once a year. Never pictured my dad in a coffin three months before his 69th birthday.
I am at peace with it all. Mostly because I some how knew by the grace of God if I didn't surrender it all to Him, ask for His plan and purpose to be manifest in my life, I'd never be content.
When I moved to central Florida 23 years ago, I did not have an agenda. I prayed, "Lord, whatever You want."
I had dreams, of course. I wanted to be successful. Have a good job, be a career woman. I wanted to marry a Godly man, have a family, and yes, even then, write books.
Having dreams and goals is not a sin. Far from it. Too often we don't have enough goals or plans. But putting our worth in them can lead us astray.
I had to walk through the painful surrender and pray, "Lord, if you want, I'll be single for You." I gave up who and what I thought Rachel Hayes should be and put on the Lord Jesus Christ, in whatever weak and subpar manner I could.
It started with prayer. A bit of fasting. It started because He first loved me.
What about you? Are you struggling to prop up your dreams, you ideals? Who and what you want and it's just not working? Surrender. Start with prayer. Know He first loved you!
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Intervention by Terri Blackstock
Terri Blackstock's new book Intervention was inspired by her personal experiences with her daughter's addictions.
Six years ago she became aware that her daughter (then in her early twenties) had a severe prescription pill addiction that was killing her, and she hired an interventionist to convince her daughter to go to treatment.
After a grueling few hours, her daughter agreed to go. As Terri put her on the plane with the interventionist, she was hit with the crushing feeling that her daughter was in the hands of a stranger, and anything could happen. That's when this book was born.
Six years ago she became aware that her daughter (then in her early twenties) had a severe prescription pill addiction that was killing her, and she hired an interventionist to convince her daughter to go to treatment.
After a grueling few hours, her daughter agreed to go. As Terri put her on the plane with the interventionist, she was hit with the crushing feeling that her daughter was in the hands of a stranger, and anything could happen. That's when this book was born.
Over the past few years, Terri's family has been in a tornado of relapses and rehabs, with one emergency after another, and grace upon grace. But through all this, God has taught her to pray as never before, and he's shown her how many other families are experiencing the same thing. He's also shown her that many blessings can come from crises such as this.
Terri has tried to fold all of those experiences into this suspense novel of desperation and hope. She's also added a page to her web site: "Hope for Families of Addicts," (http://www.terriblackstock.com/hope-for-families-of-addicts/ ) which has tips on dealing with a loved one who has addictions.
Terri has tried to fold all of those experiences into this suspense novel of desperation and hope. She's also added a page to her web site: "Hope for Families of Addicts," (http://www.terriblackstock.com/hope-for-families-of-addicts/ ) which has tips on dealing with a loved one who has addictions.
Though the book is fiction, Terri poured much of herself into Barbara, the mother who's desperate to save her daughter. And Terri's own daughter has given her blessings for Terri to talk about this, in hopes of helping other hurting families and raise awareness about the perils of addiction.
To see/hear Terri share her personal story about Intervention, don't miss her interviews on American Family Radio's "Today's Issues" on September 24, Moody Radio's "Chris Fabry Live on September 25, and "The 700 Club" on September 29.
"It was her last hope -- and the beginning of a new nightmare.Barbara Covington has one more chance to save her daughter from a devastating addiction, by staging an intervention. But when eighteen-year-old Emily disappears on the way to drug treatment—and her interventionist is found dead at the airport—Barbara enters her darkest nightmare of all.Barbara and her son set out to find Emily before Detective Kent Harlan arrests her for a crime he is sure she committed.
Fearing for Emily’s life, Barbara maintains her daughter’s innocence. But does she really know her anymore? Meanwhile, Kent has questions of his own. His gut tells him that this is a case of an addict killing for drugs, but as he gets to know Barbara, he begins to hope he’s wrong about Emily.The mysteries intensify as everyone’s panic grows: Did Emily’s obsession with drugs lead her to commit murder—or is she another victim of a cold-blooded killer?In this gripping novel of intrigue and suspense, bestselling author Terri Blackstock delivers the page-turning drama that readers around the world have come to expect from her.
Watch the Intervention video trailer at www.youtube.com/terriblackstock
Order Intervention at http://www.terriblackstock.com/books/coming-soon/
To see/hear Terri share her personal story about Intervention, don't miss her interviews on American Family Radio's "Today's Issues" on September 24, Moody Radio's "Chris Fabry Live on September 25, and "The 700 Club" on September 29.
"It was her last hope -- and the beginning of a new nightmare.Barbara Covington has one more chance to save her daughter from a devastating addiction, by staging an intervention. But when eighteen-year-old Emily disappears on the way to drug treatment—and her interventionist is found dead at the airport—Barbara enters her darkest nightmare of all.Barbara and her son set out to find Emily before Detective Kent Harlan arrests her for a crime he is sure she committed.
Fearing for Emily’s life, Barbara maintains her daughter’s innocence. But does she really know her anymore? Meanwhile, Kent has questions of his own. His gut tells him that this is a case of an addict killing for drugs, but as he gets to know Barbara, he begins to hope he’s wrong about Emily.The mysteries intensify as everyone’s panic grows: Did Emily’s obsession with drugs lead her to commit murder—or is she another victim of a cold-blooded killer?In this gripping novel of intrigue and suspense, bestselling author Terri Blackstock delivers the page-turning drama that readers around the world have come to expect from her.
Watch the Intervention video trailer at www.youtube.com/terriblackstock
Order Intervention at http://www.terriblackstock.com/books/coming-soon/
College Game Day
It's college football season -- a whole four months of "holidays" for me. I love this time of year. Love college football.
We don't have a TV with Dish or cable hookup, so I miss watching games at random, having the TV on all day, so we have to select our time to go out and watch games. Usually, Ohio State, of course.
Not having television has disadvantages, but the advantages outweigh them. It's just too easy to flip on the telly.
Instead we watch DVDs, read, umm, write books. Well, I do. Tony writes vicariously.
I talked last night to our church women about prayer. Prayer is the aqueduct in which the Spirit flows in and through us. But if we have so many distractions we cannot settle down and focus.
And if it's not TV, it's the internet, or sheesh, iPhones and Blackberries.
I can see the Lord of Heaven waving His hand over the earth. "Silence!"
Then immediately following. "OH-IO!"
We don't have a TV with Dish or cable hookup, so I miss watching games at random, having the TV on all day, so we have to select our time to go out and watch games. Usually, Ohio State, of course.
Not having television has disadvantages, but the advantages outweigh them. It's just too easy to flip on the telly.
Instead we watch DVDs, read, umm, write books. Well, I do. Tony writes vicariously.
I talked last night to our church women about prayer. Prayer is the aqueduct in which the Spirit flows in and through us. But if we have so many distractions we cannot settle down and focus.
And if it's not TV, it's the internet, or sheesh, iPhones and Blackberries.
I can see the Lord of Heaven waving His hand over the earth. "Silence!"
Then immediately following. "OH-IO!"
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Real thank you speech
Caught in a swirl of busyness between teaching a continuing ed class at ACFW and leading worship, I didn't think much about the Book of the Year Award. Probably, a bit of that on purpose so I wouldn't focus on winning or losing.
Saturday night, I wasn't prepared to hear my name and book called. I'd not prepared a speech, nor had I really thought much about what I would say or who I would thank should I win.
I blush now at my lack of preparedness. So, here's what I would've done and said HAD I been wise enough to prepare.
First, walk in stage singing Sweet Caroline and get the audience to sing, "bump, bump, bump." All together now. . . Sweet Caroline, bump, bump, bump... good times never seemed so good.
Then, I would have said:
On the Sunday before the book was due on Thursday, I was up at four a.m. trying to come up with a subplot. I'd been told the book "lacked" something and a subplot would be just the ticket.
But it's impossible to come up with a subplot at 4:00 a.m. I went to church a zombie, convinced my career was over. Thomas Nelson would see the light and cut me loose before they embarrassed themselves with any more of my drivel.
I might have called my editor or agent to talk it out, but I was sure they'd confirm my lack of talent and well, why not just put the bad new off as long as possible? I had four days to salvage my writing reputation.
I sat in the chairs during worship, begging God to down load a story to me, or just snatch me up to Heaven and allow me to borrow from the library there in order to fix poor Caroline's story.
I begged people to pray for me. One well meaning friend said, "Maybe this won't be your best book." Ahhhhh, don't say that! My conviction is I should always improve, producer better stories with each book. Why? God lives in me!
Exhausted and restless, I called Susie Warren. "Help." My dear friend, on her own deadline, took my first chapter and rewrote it for me. What a life saver. She gave me hope, pointed me in the right direction, and prayed for me. Thank you so much! I rewrote her rewrite and finally, Caroline came alive to me.
Christine Lynxwiler provided constant support during the writing of Sweet Caroline.
But Tuesday when my editor emailed and said they'd extended my deadline, I knew God had heard me and answered my prayer!
I rewrote the book and with Leslie Peterson's wise insight, Sweet Caroline became a book I could be proud of. Thanks to Ami McConnell who believed in me and trust me all along. She was out on maternity leave those rewrite months, but I felt her heart.
Thanks to Kristin Billerbeck who inspired me to write chick lit. To Colleen Coble who cheered me on in my early writing days. Thank you so very much.
Thank you to Karen Solem who agented Sweet Caroline and encouraged me. And to Chip MacGregor who knows how to play the glockenspiel.
To my husband who puts up with deadline craziness. To Jesus, who gave me the desire of my heart and leads me in paths of righteousness!
And to ACFW for opening so many doors!
Saturday night, I wasn't prepared to hear my name and book called. I'd not prepared a speech, nor had I really thought much about what I would say or who I would thank should I win.
I blush now at my lack of preparedness. So, here's what I would've done and said HAD I been wise enough to prepare.
First, walk in stage singing Sweet Caroline and get the audience to sing, "bump, bump, bump." All together now. . . Sweet Caroline, bump, bump, bump... good times never seemed so good.
Then, I would have said:
On the Sunday before the book was due on Thursday, I was up at four a.m. trying to come up with a subplot. I'd been told the book "lacked" something and a subplot would be just the ticket.
But it's impossible to come up with a subplot at 4:00 a.m. I went to church a zombie, convinced my career was over. Thomas Nelson would see the light and cut me loose before they embarrassed themselves with any more of my drivel.
I might have called my editor or agent to talk it out, but I was sure they'd confirm my lack of talent and well, why not just put the bad new off as long as possible? I had four days to salvage my writing reputation.
I sat in the chairs during worship, begging God to down load a story to me, or just snatch me up to Heaven and allow me to borrow from the library there in order to fix poor Caroline's story.
I begged people to pray for me. One well meaning friend said, "Maybe this won't be your best book." Ahhhhh, don't say that! My conviction is I should always improve, producer better stories with each book. Why? God lives in me!
Exhausted and restless, I called Susie Warren. "Help." My dear friend, on her own deadline, took my first chapter and rewrote it for me. What a life saver. She gave me hope, pointed me in the right direction, and prayed for me. Thank you so much! I rewrote her rewrite and finally, Caroline came alive to me.
Christine Lynxwiler provided constant support during the writing of Sweet Caroline.
But Tuesday when my editor emailed and said they'd extended my deadline, I knew God had heard me and answered my prayer!
I rewrote the book and with Leslie Peterson's wise insight, Sweet Caroline became a book I could be proud of. Thanks to Ami McConnell who believed in me and trust me all along. She was out on maternity leave those rewrite months, but I felt her heart.
Thanks to Kristin Billerbeck who inspired me to write chick lit. To Colleen Coble who cheered me on in my early writing days. Thank you so very much.
Thank you to Karen Solem who agented Sweet Caroline and encouraged me. And to Chip MacGregor who knows how to play the glockenspiel.
To my husband who puts up with deadline craziness. To Jesus, who gave me the desire of my heart and leads me in paths of righteousness!
And to ACFW for opening so many doors!
Monday, September 21, 2009
Sweet Caroline wins!
How's that for a heading. . .Sweet Caroline won Best Lit in the American Christian Fiction Writer's Book of the Year. Very thrilled to have won! What an honor.
I wasn't prepared to win so I didn't have any cute stories, and I forgot to thank Christine Lynxwiler and Susan May Warren who saved my bacon four days before the book was due. But the Lord was the one who really intervened.
More later on what my speech should've been and thoughts on the ACFW conference. But for now, this is the news.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Women of Faith Book Club and Sweet Caroline
Good news! Sweet Caroline was picked for September's Women of Faith book club! For information and to read an interview with your's truy, click here!
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Between You and Me by Jenny B. Jones
Please welcome my good buddy and fellow Thomas Nelson author, Jenny B. Jones. I started this book and it's divine! Jenny writes a poignant, funny, and engaging story!
This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Just Between You And Me
Thomas Nelson (September 1, 2009)
by
Jenny B. Jones
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
I write Christian fiction with a few giggles, quite a bit of sass, and lots of crazy. My novels include the Katie Parker Production series and So Not Happening. I would also like to take credit for Twilight , but somewhere I think I read you’re not supposed to lie.
When I’m not typing my heart out (or checking email), I teach at a super-sized high school in Arkansas.
My students are constantly telling me how my teaching changes their lives and turned them away from drugs, gangs, and C-SPAN.
Okay, that’s not exactly true.
Since my current job leaves me with very little free time, I believe in spending my spare hours in meaningful, intellectual pursuits such as:
-watching E!
-updating my status on Facebook
-catching Will Ferrell on YouTube and
-writing my name in the dust on my furniture
I’d love to hear about you, so drop me a note. Or check me out on Facebook.
ABOUT THE BOOK
The only thing scarier than living on the edge is stepping off it.
Maggie Montgomery lives a life of adventure. Her job as a cinematographer takes her from one exotic locale to the next. When Maggie's not working, she loves to rappel off cliffs or go skydiving. Nothing frightens her.
Nothing, that is, except Ivy, Texas, where a family emergency pulls her back home to a town full of bad memories, painful secrets, and people Maggie left far behind . . . for a reason.
Forced to stay longer than she intended, Maggie finds her family a complete mess, including the niece her sister has abandoned. Ten-year-old Riley is struggling in school and out of control at home. The only person who can really handle the pint-sized troublemaker is Conner, the local vet and Ivy's most eligible bachelor. But Conner and Maggie keep butting heads--he's suspicious of her and, well, she doesn't rely on anyone but herself.
As Maggie humorously fumbles her way from one mishap to another, she realizes she's going to need to ask for help from the one person who scares her the most.
To save one little girl--and herself--can Maggie let go of her fears and just trust God?
If you would like to read the first chapter of Just Between You And Me, go HERE
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
I write Christian fiction with a few giggles, quite a bit of sass, and lots of crazy. My novels include the Katie Parker Production series and So Not Happening. I would also like to take credit for Twilight , but somewhere I think I read you’re not supposed to lie.When I’m not typing my heart out (or checking email), I teach at a super-sized high school in Arkansas.
My students are constantly telling me how my teaching changes their lives and turned them away from drugs, gangs, and C-SPAN.
Okay, that’s not exactly true.
Since my current job leaves me with very little free time, I believe in spending my spare hours in meaningful, intellectual pursuits such as:
-watching E!
-updating my status on Facebook
-catching Will Ferrell on YouTube and
-writing my name in the dust on my furniture
I’d love to hear about you, so drop me a note. Or check me out on Facebook.
ABOUT THE BOOK
The only thing scarier than living on the edge is stepping off it.Maggie Montgomery lives a life of adventure. Her job as a cinematographer takes her from one exotic locale to the next. When Maggie's not working, she loves to rappel off cliffs or go skydiving. Nothing frightens her.
Nothing, that is, except Ivy, Texas, where a family emergency pulls her back home to a town full of bad memories, painful secrets, and people Maggie left far behind . . . for a reason.
Forced to stay longer than she intended, Maggie finds her family a complete mess, including the niece her sister has abandoned. Ten-year-old Riley is struggling in school and out of control at home. The only person who can really handle the pint-sized troublemaker is Conner, the local vet and Ivy's most eligible bachelor. But Conner and Maggie keep butting heads--he's suspicious of her and, well, she doesn't rely on anyone but herself.
As Maggie humorously fumbles her way from one mishap to another, she realizes she's going to need to ask for help from the one person who scares her the most.
To save one little girl--and herself--can Maggie let go of her fears and just trust God?
If you would like to read the first chapter of Just Between You And Me, go HERE
Wednesday, September 09, 2009
Wilderness
Ever feel like your heart is alone? Encapsulated in it's own silence, feed only by the springs of your own soul and spirit?
I've been feeling that way lately. As if my heart is not connected or in-touch with others -- my husband the exception.
I can think of people I know and love -- friends and family -- but there's a yearning going on that requires more than people. It requires Jesus.
The wilderness is where we learn to lean. The wilderness is where we discover our own barrenness. I feel sort of like He's calling me to the wilderness. I'm hungry and thirsty for something I can't define, that people cannot supply.
Song of Solomon 8:5 -- "Who is this coming up from the wilderness leaning on her Beloved?"
Me.
I've been feeling that way lately. As if my heart is not connected or in-touch with others -- my husband the exception.
I can think of people I know and love -- friends and family -- but there's a yearning going on that requires more than people. It requires Jesus.
The wilderness is where we learn to lean. The wilderness is where we discover our own barrenness. I feel sort of like He's calling me to the wilderness. I'm hungry and thirsty for something I can't define, that people cannot supply.
Song of Solomon 8:5 -- "Who is this coming up from the wilderness leaning on her Beloved?"
Me.
Friday, September 04, 2009
Interview with Thomas Nelson Sr. Editor, Ami McConnell
My Book Therapy is chatting with Thomas Nelson's Sr. Acquisitions editor, Ami McConnell today. Great interview. Check it out.
Tuesday, September 01, 2009
How do I love Thee
Sunday during the service, I was privileged to be among the congregation and not up stage leading worship.
All I could sense in my heart and mind, "Jesus, I don't love you enough. How can I love you more?" I cut these lines from the stanza of Elizabeth Barrett Browning:
It may just be that we cannot know the width, length, height and depth of His love in this life. Paul writes we "see through a glass dimly." We don't have the fullness of God's love and beauty. Not in this life. But in the next. . . but in the next.
I want to love Him more. But I'm weak. I'm selfish and concerned about my fleshly comforts. I'm easily distracted and interrupted. I wish I could turn my chest inside out and just. . . "HERE! Take it all!"
In my mind's eye, I'm a fierce warrioress. I'm quick, swift, and agile. I'm ready at any moment to run at the Lord's command. Like, yeah, you don't want to mess with me! :) But in reality, I'm a frumpy house frau with visions of spiritual heights. I'm Achilles in Troy. (Not the naked Brad Pitt version, but you know what I mean.) But it takes spiritual discipline and training to get there. My emotions and affections must be changed.
Love is the change agent. Understanding His love for me. And loving Him more, and more. There is no limit to His willingness for us to love Him more. And there is no force more powerful than a loved woman!
I want to be vigilant, even violent in my soul for Him. Warring against my own flesh and sin to be so single focused on Him. I don't want religion or platitudes. I want Jesus. Religion gets in the way. Platitudes make us feel holy when in fact we are not.
All I could sense in my heart and mind, "Jesus, I don't love you enough. How can I love you more?" I cut these lines from the stanza of Elizabeth Barrett Browning:
With my lost saints, --- I love thee with the breath,
Smiles, tears, of all my life! --- and, if God choose,
I shall but love thee better after death.
Smiles, tears, of all my life! --- and, if God choose,
I shall but love thee better after death.
It may just be that we cannot know the width, length, height and depth of His love in this life. Paul writes we "see through a glass dimly." We don't have the fullness of God's love and beauty. Not in this life. But in the next. . . but in the next.
I want to love Him more. But I'm weak. I'm selfish and concerned about my fleshly comforts. I'm easily distracted and interrupted. I wish I could turn my chest inside out and just. . . "HERE! Take it all!"
In my mind's eye, I'm a fierce warrioress. I'm quick, swift, and agile. I'm ready at any moment to run at the Lord's command. Like, yeah, you don't want to mess with me! :) But in reality, I'm a frumpy house frau with visions of spiritual heights. I'm Achilles in Troy. (Not the naked Brad Pitt version, but you know what I mean.) But it takes spiritual discipline and training to get there. My emotions and affections must be changed.
Love is the change agent. Understanding His love for me. And loving Him more, and more. There is no limit to His willingness for us to love Him more. And there is no force more powerful than a loved woman!
I want to be vigilant, even violent in my soul for Him. Warring against my own flesh and sin to be so single focused on Him. I don't want religion or platitudes. I want Jesus. Religion gets in the way. Platitudes make us feel holy when in fact we are not.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Gone to Green by Judy Christie
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Judy Pace Christie, after working as a journalist for twenty-five years, left the daily news business to open a consulting firm that works with individuals, businesses, and churches on strategies for meaningful life and work, including goal-setting, living fully, and balancing personal and professional lives. She is the author of Hurry Less, Worry Less; Hurry Less, Worry Less at Christmastime; and co-author of Awesome Altars. Judy and her husband live in northwest Louisiana.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Lois goes from being a corporate journalist at a large paper in the Midwest to the owner of The Green News-Item, a small twice-weekly newspaper in rural North Louisiana. The paper was an unexpected inheritance from a close colleague, and Lois must keep it for at least a year, bringing a host of challenges, lessons, and blessings into her life.When Lois pulls into Green on New Year’s Day, she expects a charming little town full of smiling people. She quickly realizes her mistake. After settling into a loaned house out on Route 2, she finds herself battling town prejudices and inner doubts and making friends with the most surprising people: troubled teenager Katy, good-looking catfish farmer Chris, wise and feisty Aunt Helen, and a female African-American physician named Kevin.
Whether fighting a greedy, deceitful politician or rescuing a dog she fears, Lois notices the headlines in her life have definitely improved. She learns how to provide small-town news in a big-hearted way and realizes that life is full of newsworthy moments. When she encounters racial prejudice and financial corruption, Lois also discovers more about the goodness of real people and the importance of being part of a community.
While secretly preparing the paper for a sale, Lois begins to realize that God might indeed have a plan for her life and that perhaps the allure of city life and career ambition are not what she wants after all.
If you would like to read the first chapter of Gone To Green, go HERE
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Nevertheless, a man has died
Working out on an elliptical trainer at the gym this morning, I caught a few scenes from Ted Kennedy's funeral.
The camera paused on a man, maybe his son, visibly moved by Kennedy's death. While most eyes were dry, this man's were not and I was touched by his display of sorrow.
I've already shared I didn't have any respect for the Senator Kennedy from Massachusetts, but today I was reminded of his humanity as a husband and father, brother, uncle, a man who was loved.
When I saw the one man's face, I was challenged to wonder how Jesus would perceive people and situations.
Jesus died for all. Those we love, those we despise, those we disagree with, and those who disagree with us. As a Christ follower, my leader Jesus reminds me in Matthew 5 that I will be hated and reviled for believing in Him. It's a hard reality to swallow.
Even more so when I consider Jesus died for the Mother Teresa's of the world as well as the Hitler's. And some where in between is me. And you.
We like to qualify things. Compare. If "this" is evil, then "that" is most certainly evil. We want a fair scale. And the truth is, only One commands the scale. Only One decides what's fair.
I am sorrowful for those who buried a man they knew and loved today. Death is never easy. They will miss the Kennedy most of us never knew.
I still disagree with the political Kennedy's stand on abortion, on socialism and expanding government. But nevertheless, a man has died. I think Jesus weeps in a way we can't understand.
I want to partner with Him, share His heart no matter what I think and believe in the natural. I have a ways to go on my journey. To love Jesus, to love truth. We must love truth.
Come Lord Jesus, come.
The camera paused on a man, maybe his son, visibly moved by Kennedy's death. While most eyes were dry, this man's were not and I was touched by his display of sorrow.
I've already shared I didn't have any respect for the Senator Kennedy from Massachusetts, but today I was reminded of his humanity as a husband and father, brother, uncle, a man who was loved.
When I saw the one man's face, I was challenged to wonder how Jesus would perceive people and situations.
Jesus died for all. Those we love, those we despise, those we disagree with, and those who disagree with us. As a Christ follower, my leader Jesus reminds me in Matthew 5 that I will be hated and reviled for believing in Him. It's a hard reality to swallow.
Even more so when I consider Jesus died for the Mother Teresa's of the world as well as the Hitler's. And some where in between is me. And you.
We like to qualify things. Compare. If "this" is evil, then "that" is most certainly evil. We want a fair scale. And the truth is, only One commands the scale. Only One decides what's fair.
I am sorrowful for those who buried a man they knew and loved today. Death is never easy. They will miss the Kennedy most of us never knew.
I still disagree with the political Kennedy's stand on abortion, on socialism and expanding government. But nevertheless, a man has died. I think Jesus weeps in a way we can't understand.
I want to partner with Him, share His heart no matter what I think and believe in the natural. I have a ways to go on my journey. To love Jesus, to love truth. We must love truth.
Come Lord Jesus, come.
Friday, August 28, 2009
The end of the Kennedy era
I've watched with fascination the media's response to the passing of Ted Kennedy. He's treated like a demi-god.
He was a liar. A womanizer. The stories of his antics with women are legendary as well as documented. Above all, he was a murderer. All his years in the Senate, where he lived like pseudo royalty feigning to care about the little man and the oppressed, does not pay the price for murder.
Ed Klein, former foreign editor of Newsweek and editor-in-chief of The New York Times Magazine, recalling on an episode of The Diane Rehm Show that Ted Kennedy liked to joke about Chappaquiddick. Here's what he said to guest host Katy Kay.
"I don't know if you know this or not, but one of his favorite topics of humor was indeed Chappaquiddick itself. And he would ask people, "have you heard any new jokes about Chappaquiddick?" That is just the most amazing thing. It's not that he didn't feel remorse about the death of Mary Jo Kopechne, but that he still always saw the other side of everything and the ridiculous side of things, too."
He joked? About killing a woman? "He saw the other side of everything and the ridiculous?" Ed Klein finds this endearing? Please, tell me, what is "the ridiculous" about letting a woman die? It's not like Ted spilled mustard on his shirt during a Senate session. The blog goes on to say how the producers tried to backpedal from Klein's comments.
I don't think Mary Jo and her family find her death amusing. Nor see Ted Kennedy a devout servant, a man to be honored. Neither do I. A leader should make one feel safe. I would have never felt safe under his leadership. Would've never wanted to follow him into battle. Would've never wanted him in the Oval office on a day like September 11th.
I pray Ted Kennedy stood before the Father covered in the blood of Jesus. I pray we stop honoring adulterers and murderers in this nation. No matter who they are, or where they came from.
America wake up. May the fear of the Lord falls on us.
He was a liar. A womanizer. The stories of his antics with women are legendary as well as documented. Above all, he was a murderer. All his years in the Senate, where he lived like pseudo royalty feigning to care about the little man and the oppressed, does not pay the price for murder.
Ed Klein, former foreign editor of Newsweek and editor-in-chief of The New York Times Magazine, recalling on an episode of The Diane Rehm Show that Ted Kennedy liked to joke about Chappaquiddick. Here's what he said to guest host Katy Kay.
"I don't know if you know this or not, but one of his favorite topics of humor was indeed Chappaquiddick itself. And he would ask people, "have you heard any new jokes about Chappaquiddick?" That is just the most amazing thing. It's not that he didn't feel remorse about the death of Mary Jo Kopechne, but that he still always saw the other side of everything and the ridiculous side of things, too."
He joked? About killing a woman? "He saw the other side of everything and the ridiculous?" Ed Klein finds this endearing? Please, tell me, what is "the ridiculous" about letting a woman die? It's not like Ted spilled mustard on his shirt during a Senate session. The blog goes on to say how the producers tried to backpedal from Klein's comments.
I don't think Mary Jo and her family find her death amusing. Nor see Ted Kennedy a devout servant, a man to be honored. Neither do I. A leader should make one feel safe. I would have never felt safe under his leadership. Would've never wanted to follow him into battle. Would've never wanted him in the Oval office on a day like September 11th.
I pray Ted Kennedy stood before the Father covered in the blood of Jesus. I pray we stop honoring adulterers and murderers in this nation. No matter who they are, or where they came from.
America wake up. May the fear of the Lord falls on us.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Look to the East by Maureen Lang
Please welcome my friend and author, Maureen Lang! Girl, you're up.Greetings! I'm eager to share the news about my newest book release. Have you ever wondered how many love stories have one war or another for a backdrop?
Rather than counting, I decided to plunge ahead and add a few more titles. Look to the East is the first in a three book series, each one linked by a European, First World War settingóbut little else, since each one is an independent story.
So come along for a glimpse back, circa early 1900's, rural France . . .
Look To The East
A village under siege. A love under fire.
France 1914
At the dawn of the First World War, the French village of Briecourt is isolated
from the battles, but the century-old feud between the Toussaints and the de
Colvilles still rages in the streets. When the German army sweeps in to occupy
the town, families on both sides of the feud are forced to work together to
protect stragglers caught behind enemy lines.
Julitte Toussaint may have been adopted from a faraway island, but she feels the
scorn of the de Colvilles as much as anyone born a Toussaint. So when she falls
in love with one of the stragglersóa wealthy and handsome Belgian entrepreneur --she knows she's playing with fire. Charles Lassone hides in the cellar of the Briecourt church, safe from the Germans for the moment. But if he's discovered, it will bring danger to the entire village and could cost Charles his life.
A note from Maureen:This book was one of those stories that just needed to be told. Inspired by actual events in a small town in France, it was a dream come true for me to travel there for research and to absorb the atmosphere. Although my book takes place nearly one hundred years ago, the same area today is similar in many ways:
picturesque little villages surrounded by a lovely rural landscape. Thankfully, there were no rumbles of battle in the distance when I was there . . .
My prayer is that the events of the past won't be forgotten, so we'll never again make the same mistakes.
About Maureen Lang:
Maureen lives with her family (her husband, three kids and their lovable lab) in
Illinois. She spends her days dreaming up people in faraway places, characters
who live far more exciting lives than she does within the safety of her happy
home. Look to the East is Maureen's ninth novel.
Happy Reading!
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Is the Lord's touch unfamiliar to us?
Yesterday a good friend and I were talking about those uncomfortable places in God. Those times when a comment from a friend or pastor, a story you've read, a song lyric that challenges our comfort zones and belief system.
He said, "The Lords touch is so unfamiliar to many. Including His people."
Have you been in that place where you were uncomfortable? Even felt a panic or a fear. I have. I was hanging with some big-gun friends, ministers who, you know, get visits from Jesus or who have been snatched into heaven a time or two, fast on a regular basis, are continually in the Word and prayer, and they were talking about the End Times.
Man, I wanted to jump out of the car. And I was driving. Panic gripped my heart. Since I'd struggled with that in the past, and overcame, I started praying, rebuking, quoting Scripture. Looking back, it's pretty funny because I was more than likely rebuking God.
What was going on? In the midst of their conversation, God came and His presence made me uncomfortable. The entire weekend, all I'd experience was joy and exhortation, charged up and ready to stay in the game and run the race for Jesus with endurance.
Suddenly, I can't sleep. I'm anxious. I'm bothered. I'm being challenged by the Holy Spirit to leave my comfort zone. I'd said "Yes" in my heart to the Lord to walk in a new place, to be wholehearted and that weekend He tapped a place in my heart and said, "This. I want to change this."
When Jesus appears, He will be both glorious and terrifying. We can't stay in a comfortable, thus-far-no-more place in Jesus if we want to be Kingdom minded, ready to stand with Him to the End of the Age.
Is there a part of your life that God is touching so it makes you feel uncomfortable. Is He confronting a belief system that you cling to because it's where you want to be. Even if it's a good spiritual place, not one of sin. But you know He's challenging?
God's touch can be so unfamiliar, yet we need to be in a place of communion and confidence with Him. We want to be like John, the Beloved, leaning our head against His breast, hearing His heart beat.
Next time you feel "uncomfortable" in a worship service or conversation, maybe while praying and being in the Word, ask for understanding and stay in that place until the Lord has completed His good work.
He said, "The Lords touch is so unfamiliar to many. Including His people."
Have you been in that place where you were uncomfortable? Even felt a panic or a fear. I have. I was hanging with some big-gun friends, ministers who, you know, get visits from Jesus or who have been snatched into heaven a time or two, fast on a regular basis, are continually in the Word and prayer, and they were talking about the End Times.
Man, I wanted to jump out of the car. And I was driving. Panic gripped my heart. Since I'd struggled with that in the past, and overcame, I started praying, rebuking, quoting Scripture. Looking back, it's pretty funny because I was more than likely rebuking God.
What was going on? In the midst of their conversation, God came and His presence made me uncomfortable. The entire weekend, all I'd experience was joy and exhortation, charged up and ready to stay in the game and run the race for Jesus with endurance.
Suddenly, I can't sleep. I'm anxious. I'm bothered. I'm being challenged by the Holy Spirit to leave my comfort zone. I'd said "Yes" in my heart to the Lord to walk in a new place, to be wholehearted and that weekend He tapped a place in my heart and said, "This. I want to change this."
When Jesus appears, He will be both glorious and terrifying. We can't stay in a comfortable, thus-far-no-more place in Jesus if we want to be Kingdom minded, ready to stand with Him to the End of the Age.
Is there a part of your life that God is touching so it makes you feel uncomfortable. Is He confronting a belief system that you cling to because it's where you want to be. Even if it's a good spiritual place, not one of sin. But you know He's challenging?
God's touch can be so unfamiliar, yet we need to be in a place of communion and confidence with Him. We want to be like John, the Beloved, leaning our head against His breast, hearing His heart beat.
Next time you feel "uncomfortable" in a worship service or conversation, maybe while praying and being in the Word, ask for understanding and stay in that place until the Lord has completed His good work.
Monday, August 17, 2009
Crit Groups: Should I be in one?
From my post over on My Book Therapy.
The other night during the Voices forum chat, Susie and I were asked about crit groups -- if we believed they were valuable, and what advice would we give. Here's the summation of our collective advice.
Should I be in a crit group?
If you are new to writing fiction, or struggling in your writing, join a crit group. American Christian Fiction Writers has established groups that are waiting for an author to join. I was in Crit group seven my first few years in ACFW.
Crit groups do not have to be your best friends. In fact, I recommend not pairing with your friends if you are starting out. It's too easy to be nice to each other. You like the other's work too much. Join up with people who are going to challenge you. Not knowing them is a great advantage. But do know if they are accomplished critiquers. That should really be your only requirement. If they are published, all the better.
Often we see crit partners like girlswriteout and we believe that's what we all want and need. Those woman started out just like all of us -- looking for input on their stories and they became best friends.
If that happens with your crit group, great. If not, it's still a valuable tool. I do think over time crit partners who become friends can be more forthright with input and not worry about hurting feelings.
Crit Group Pitfalls
I had input on a few of my manuscripts, but over the long haul, crit groups didn't work for me. I didn't have time to review five people's input on the same chapter. It became tedious. Constant chapter exchange can be overwhelming. Set up a workable guideline for your group's members.
Crit groups often turn into nothing more than line edits. Make sure your crit, or the ones you're receiving, are more about craft and the story than correcting a misspelled word, an awkward sentence, a missing question mark.
A crit group should focus on the story! Does the story work? Is the dialog realistic and snappy? Does it deliver the story? Is there a balance of narrative and action? Too much internal thinking? Is the hero and heroine likable? Is their character acting consistently. Are their goals obvious and planned out? Tension, where's the tension? I could go on. But you get where I'm going. Is this story working? Is it too cliche, too sweet, too dark?
Children with Pebbles
Often new writers armed with a handful of writing rules are like children standing on the side of the road with a fistful of pebbles. They have ammo but no idea how and when to use it, even if they should use them. Instead of helping a crit partner, they damage them. "This is telling," when it's not. Or, "you shouldn't use the word was." (My personal favorite.) At the same time, they lack understanding of how to use more mature writing techniques that would help you advance -- like recognizing metaphors or themes.
Most of all, immature crit partners throw pebbles at your voice. The biggest hurdle for any writer is to find her/his voice. You don't want a perfectionistic line editing crit partner adding or deleting words or phrases that define your style. You want a crit partner to read your work with a somewhat artistic eye. She should highlight a line and note: THIS is your voice.
In the end. . .
The hardest part for a writer is to show their work. The second hardest is to let someone give you feedback. You need a crit group, even a weak one, for that purpose alone if you're starting out. Let someone read your work. Not your spouse or best friend, or mother. They will hear you in the story and love it. Let another reader or writer who is not familiar or close with you read it. Ask for an honest opinion.
I'll admit it. I've lied to new writers before. I said I liked something when I didn't because I knew if I told them the truth -- both the good and the bad -- it would crush them. I didn't feel they were in a place where it mattered if I held back a bit. But if you're serious about writing, get honest, helpful feedback. If you don't get the response you want, email the critiquer and ask questions.
Once an author read my synopsis and said she loved it. When I asked more specific questions, I found out she didn't like the heroine's profession very much which made her not like the heroine. Well, gee, now you tell me. :)
Conference Critiques
Please, sign up for conference critiques. They are a big help.
Later, we'll talk about the dynamic of brainstorming partners.
The other night during the Voices forum chat, Susie and I were asked about crit groups -- if we believed they were valuable, and what advice would we give. Here's the summation of our collective advice.
Should I be in a crit group?
If you are new to writing fiction, or struggling in your writing, join a crit group. American Christian Fiction Writers has established groups that are waiting for an author to join. I was in Crit group seven my first few years in ACFW.
Crit groups do not have to be your best friends. In fact, I recommend not pairing with your friends if you are starting out. It's too easy to be nice to each other. You like the other's work too much. Join up with people who are going to challenge you. Not knowing them is a great advantage. But do know if they are accomplished critiquers. That should really be your only requirement. If they are published, all the better.
Often we see crit partners like girlswriteout and we believe that's what we all want and need. Those woman started out just like all of us -- looking for input on their stories and they became best friends.
If that happens with your crit group, great. If not, it's still a valuable tool. I do think over time crit partners who become friends can be more forthright with input and not worry about hurting feelings.
Crit Group Pitfalls
I had input on a few of my manuscripts, but over the long haul, crit groups didn't work for me. I didn't have time to review five people's input on the same chapter. It became tedious. Constant chapter exchange can be overwhelming. Set up a workable guideline for your group's members.
Crit groups often turn into nothing more than line edits. Make sure your crit, or the ones you're receiving, are more about craft and the story than correcting a misspelled word, an awkward sentence, a missing question mark.
A crit group should focus on the story! Does the story work? Is the dialog realistic and snappy? Does it deliver the story? Is there a balance of narrative and action? Too much internal thinking? Is the hero and heroine likable? Is their character acting consistently. Are their goals obvious and planned out? Tension, where's the tension? I could go on. But you get where I'm going. Is this story working? Is it too cliche, too sweet, too dark?
Children with Pebbles
Often new writers armed with a handful of writing rules are like children standing on the side of the road with a fistful of pebbles. They have ammo but no idea how and when to use it, even if they should use them. Instead of helping a crit partner, they damage them. "This is telling," when it's not. Or, "you shouldn't use the word was." (My personal favorite.) At the same time, they lack understanding of how to use more mature writing techniques that would help you advance -- like recognizing metaphors or themes.
Most of all, immature crit partners throw pebbles at your voice. The biggest hurdle for any writer is to find her/his voice. You don't want a perfectionistic line editing crit partner adding or deleting words or phrases that define your style. You want a crit partner to read your work with a somewhat artistic eye. She should highlight a line and note: THIS is your voice.
In the end. . .
The hardest part for a writer is to show their work. The second hardest is to let someone give you feedback. You need a crit group, even a weak one, for that purpose alone if you're starting out. Let someone read your work. Not your spouse or best friend, or mother. They will hear you in the story and love it. Let another reader or writer who is not familiar or close with you read it. Ask for an honest opinion.
I'll admit it. I've lied to new writers before. I said I liked something when I didn't because I knew if I told them the truth -- both the good and the bad -- it would crush them. I didn't feel they were in a place where it mattered if I held back a bit. But if you're serious about writing, get honest, helpful feedback. If you don't get the response you want, email the critiquer and ask questions.
Once an author read my synopsis and said she loved it. When I asked more specific questions, I found out she didn't like the heroine's profession very much which made her not like the heroine. Well, gee, now you tell me. :)
Conference Critiques
Please, sign up for conference critiques. They are a big help.
Later, we'll talk about the dynamic of brainstorming partners.
Friday, August 14, 2009
Looking for an agent
Over on My Book Therapy, I blogged about my journey with agents and offer some advice to writers looking or wondering.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
The Hope of Refuge by Cindy Woodsmall
Please welcome my dear friend and proud-to-say, New York Times Best Selling author, Cindy Woodsmall.The Hope of Refuge
Raised in foster care and now the widowed mother of a little girl, Cara Moore struggles against poverty, fear, and a relentless stalker. When a trail of memories leads Cara and Lori out of New York City toward an Amish community, she follows every lead, eager for answers and a fresh start. She discovers that long-held secrets about her family history ripple beneath the surface of Dry Lake, Pennsylvania, and it’s no place for an outsider. But one Amish man, Ephraim Mast, dares to fulfill the command he believes that he received from God–"Be me to her"– despite how it threatens his way of life.
Completely opposite of the hard, untrusting Cara, Ephraim's sister Deborah also finds her dreams crumbling when the man she has pledged to build a life with begins withdrawing from Deborah and his community, including his mother, Ada Stoltzfus. Can the run-down house that Ada envisions transforming unite them toward a common purpose–or push Mahlon away forever? While Ephraim is trying to do what he believes is right, will he be shunned and lose everything–including the guarded single mother who simply longs for a better life?
About the author -Cindy Woodsmall is the author of When the Heart Cries, and the New York Times best-sellers When the Morning Comes and When the Soul Mends. Her ability to authentically capture the heart of her characters comes from her real-life connections with Amish Mennonite and Old Order Amish families. A mother of three sons and two daughters-in-law, Cindy lives in Georgia with her husband of more than thirty years.
What others are saying -
"Cindy Woodsmall's The Hope of Refuge takes the reader on an emotional journey into the heart of Amish country and the heart of a very human heroine. A compelling novel. . ."
-Karen Harper, New York Times bestselling author of Deep Down
"I'm not a huge fan of Amish books, but Cindy Woodsmall's novels are in a class by themselves. The Hope of Refuge is one of my top picks for 2009. Novel Reviews and I highly recommend it. A 5-star read."
-Ane Mulligan of Novel Reviews
"What a beautiful story of hope and renewal! Cindy Woodsmall's The Hope of Refuge is an honest and moving portrayal that rings with authenticity."
–Marlo Schalesky, award-winning author of If Tomorrow Never Comes and Beyond the Night
"This book [The Hope of Refuge] was excellent! It was so good that I couldn't put it down. . .
-author Cecelia Dowdy
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Spiritual Warfare: In a word or two
A friend lent me the Ted Dekker book, Adam. While talking with another friend, I absently flipped through the back of Ted's book to the printed conversation he had with author and speaker, John Eldredge, about spiritual warfare.
This sentences arrested my heart and pinged with deep level truth. I know what Eldredge is saying, I've lived it, but his expression brought all my understanding and experiences into focus.
The question was: What is the bottom line on spiritual warfare?
JE: The battle is not the point. Evil is not the point. The point is the love story. We live in a love story that is set in the midst of war. When you understand those two things, you will suddenly understand Christianity, and you will understand your own life.
This concise truth blows me away. Eldredge is exactly right. What's going on now is a battle for our affections. Satan wants your affection to draw you away from the greatest love you'll ever know. From healing, intense, deep, passionate, perfect, personal love.
He's created all kinds of "bling" to keep us fascinated, like babies, with elementary values and principles of his world. Money, sex, career, status, entertainment, things, friendships and family, our personal identity even can rob us of our affection (who we think we are.) He makes his trinkets easy to obtain and for the most part, fun.
But Jesus draws us to a deeper love with jewels and gifts that cannot be matched. We must mine for them, be disciplined, draw ourselves away from all the things that so easily capture our affection.
Does food, or a certain television show, or sport, or person ignite your affection? You can feel the exhale, or released, when you know you're going to sit down to a program or with certain food? Or spend time with someone?
Fast food is fun. It's easy. It's temporarily filling. But well-cooked, prepared food like we learn to do on some of the cooking shows takes time. The flavors can be endless, the food nutricious, adding value.
What we can't be is fast food, easy love Believers. We must be aware that Satan is out to steal our affection. Guard your heart and mind with all you have. Give Jesus your affection. Remove those things which get in the way.
He is so worth it!
This sentences arrested my heart and pinged with deep level truth. I know what Eldredge is saying, I've lived it, but his expression brought all my understanding and experiences into focus.
The question was: What is the bottom line on spiritual warfare?
JE: The battle is not the point. Evil is not the point. The point is the love story. We live in a love story that is set in the midst of war. When you understand those two things, you will suddenly understand Christianity, and you will understand your own life.
This concise truth blows me away. Eldredge is exactly right. What's going on now is a battle for our affections. Satan wants your affection to draw you away from the greatest love you'll ever know. From healing, intense, deep, passionate, perfect, personal love.
He's created all kinds of "bling" to keep us fascinated, like babies, with elementary values and principles of his world. Money, sex, career, status, entertainment, things, friendships and family, our personal identity even can rob us of our affection (who we think we are.) He makes his trinkets easy to obtain and for the most part, fun.
But Jesus draws us to a deeper love with jewels and gifts that cannot be matched. We must mine for them, be disciplined, draw ourselves away from all the things that so easily capture our affection.
Does food, or a certain television show, or sport, or person ignite your affection? You can feel the exhale, or released, when you know you're going to sit down to a program or with certain food? Or spend time with someone?
Fast food is fun. It's easy. It's temporarily filling. But well-cooked, prepared food like we learn to do on some of the cooking shows takes time. The flavors can be endless, the food nutricious, adding value.
What we can't be is fast food, easy love Believers. We must be aware that Satan is out to steal our affection. Guard your heart and mind with all you have. Give Jesus your affection. Remove those things which get in the way.
He is so worth it!
Sunday, August 09, 2009
It's been awhile
Bump! Did you hear that? It's the echo of me falling of the blogging band wagon last week. Ouch. I landed hard.
But I chased 'er down and climbed aboard. Whoo-woo, whoo-woo.
I'm working on the second book with Sara Evans, incorporating ideas from our editor. Good stuff, but I'll be heads down for the next two weeks. I'm also teach a course for ACFW, "Your Write Like A Girl -- Honing the Male Perspective." So far, we've had good discussion on the course loop.
Tony has been prepping all week to return to teaching. First time to be in a classroom in 22 years, but he's really excited about it. He'll be at school until noon, then head over to Church On The Rock to get work done there. Between ministry and working with teens again, he feels like he's back into his passions again.
Handing youth ministry over to Matt and Jodi was the right thing -- we'd stopped being effective with young teens -- but the classroom setting feels perfect for Tony.
He's been prepping math classes all weekend. Alegebra, Alegebra 2 and Geometry. And that's just for the first week.
In other news. . . isn't that cool. "In other news. . ." They used to say that on Hee Haw. In other news. . . there is no other news. Getting excited about Sara and my book coming out in late December. The official release is 12.30.09. So save some Christmas money for a good New Year's Read.
May God richly bless you.
But I chased 'er down and climbed aboard. Whoo-woo, whoo-woo.
I'm working on the second book with Sara Evans, incorporating ideas from our editor. Good stuff, but I'll be heads down for the next two weeks. I'm also teach a course for ACFW, "Your Write Like A Girl -- Honing the Male Perspective." So far, we've had good discussion on the course loop.
Tony has been prepping all week to return to teaching. First time to be in a classroom in 22 years, but he's really excited about it. He'll be at school until noon, then head over to Church On The Rock to get work done there. Between ministry and working with teens again, he feels like he's back into his passions again.
Handing youth ministry over to Matt and Jodi was the right thing -- we'd stopped being effective with young teens -- but the classroom setting feels perfect for Tony.
He's been prepping math classes all weekend. Alegebra, Alegebra 2 and Geometry. And that's just for the first week.
In other news. . . isn't that cool. "In other news. . ." They used to say that on Hee Haw. In other news. . . there is no other news. Getting excited about Sara and my book coming out in late December. The official release is 12.30.09. So save some Christmas money for a good New Year's Read.
May God richly bless you.
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