F.A.I.T.H. Girls

Inspiration and Fighting Self-Doubt

2012-01-26T03:00:00.000-05:00

Missy, here. Angie shared some amazing photos yesterday. Didn't you find yourself smiling as you looked at the one of her son and grand-baby? :)

It got me thinking about inspiration. And I thought I'd ask y'all and see what inspires you as you're on the last leg of a journey. And by journey, I'm talking more about finishing up a project. But I guess you could take me literally and think of a trip. :)

How do you push through on the last days of finishing a manuscript or a proposal, when you're making the final changes and read-through?

Are you like me, fretting that it's not good enough? Fretting that it'll be rejected? Or are you too excited just to think about getting the thing out the door? :) (If you're not a writer, then I'm sure you have projects at work or at home that come down to those finishing touches.)

How do you handle reaching the end of something?

I also thought I'd share a verse with you today. One that's helped me push through the fear and self-doubt.

Isaiah 40:30-31

New International Version (NIV)

³⁰ Even youths grow tired and weary,
   and young men stumble and fall;
³¹ but those who hope in the LORD
   will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
   they will run and not grow weary,
   they will walk and not be faint.

What Do You Find Really Beautiful?

2012-01-25T03:00:00.000-05:00

Angie here: Inspired by many vibrant images around me lately, I wondered if other people found them equally as beautiful. That leads me to wonder about the subjectivity of beauty. What do you find really beautiful?

I have a list a mile long, but here are a few that can stop my heart.

A father connecting with his child


Hoar frost when fog freezes on plants


The colors of creation in the fall from living plants and animals to the clouds and sky. Stunning.


Weather. Especially clouds and rain storms are particularly gorgeous to me.


Colorful favorite foods like orange rolls and blackberries.

Women who want to learn and grow in the Lord.

I know there are many, many more. I noticed nature and people tend to be most of my photos. But I'm interested in what you feel is beautiful and inspiring...

Bachelor Ben - Week Four Recap and More

2012-01-24T09:33:00.000-05:00

Mindy here, back in my regular Tuesday slot. Well, last night our bachelor and his bachelorettes went to Park City, Utah. Beautiful! Gorgeous fall color. Rachel got the first one-on-one date. She admitted to the camera that she had communication problems and that had damaged previous relationships. So she'd have to open up to Ben or be gone.

Naturally, everything the producers chose to show us was awkward conversation about the weather and the scenery. Rachel was definitely holding back. During a really cool dinner in the woods, she finally came clean with Ben. Our understanding hero, who'd done the same thing with Ashley last year, smiled, encouraged her to come out of her shell, kissed her and gave her the rose.

Meanwhile, back at the resort, Kacie B. (one of my top picks for Ben) is having a cozy little discussion with Monica about how her relationship with Ben is special, different, and how much it hurts to watch him go out with other women. Kacie, Kacie, Kacie.... First of all, you knew this would happen going into this. Second, why would you talk about your feeling s for him with your competition. Then again, they are women. We need that friend we can bond with.

The group date was fun. I wanted to go with them. Horseback riding through that beautiful country was right up Lindzi's alley. He couldn't have hand-picked a better date for her. She even loved the fly fishing. Unfortunately, it was the devious Courtney who caught a fish. She's such a player, once again saying everything Ben wants to hear.

Later, when everyone gets a moment to have Ben to themselves, Kacie B. enjoys a nice interlude with Ben. Samantha wasn't so lucky. Her continuous whining about not getting a one-on-one date had Ben sending her packing. He didn't see their relationship progressing and, frankly, I'm not sure why he kept her around this long.

And don't even get me started on his time with Courtney. Once again, she manipulates him into giving her the rose, which she gladly flaunts in front of the other women.

The next one-on-one date went to Jennifer, the second of my two top picks. Both she and Kacie B. are genuine and down-to-earth. Just the kind of girl Ben needs. Now how does this sound for a first date? You strip down to your swim suit in the chilly fall air, have a harness strapped between your legs, and you and your guy repel into a crater. Then, some ten or twelve feet above the surface of the water you're cut loose. No thank you. Scared as she was, though, Jennifer was a trooper.

Later they take a ski lift to dinner. It starts to rain. They run for cover and share a romantic evening. She get's the rose.

At the cocktail party, Emily tells Ben that one of the girls (Courtney) is very different around him than with the women. Courtney gets wind of this and the claws come out. However, when all is said and done, Ben chooses to keep Emily and sends Monica home. Just as well since I didn't see a connection there anyway.

Next week they're off to Puerto Rico where Courtney continues to lure Ben to the dark side. Tsk, tsk, tsk.... How is it that otherwise smart guys can allow themselves to be deceived by feminine wiles? Wake up and smell the expensive perfume, buddy!

Sigh.

Back in the real world, I must be getting spring fever or something. I've been acting like a pregnant woman about to pop. Cleaning things like a mad woman. I spent Sunday afternoon cleaning out my spice cabinet--tossing out of date stuff, labeling (complete with expiration dates), washing and reorganizing. Yesterday it was my office, right down to the drawers in my desk. How pathetic is that? The sense of accomplishment is worth it though. Decorating guru, Christopher Lowell, used to say a cluttered space is a mind. Yep, I'd have to agree with that one. Now if I could only figure out the easiest way to contain all that clutter. Any ideas?

Happy Tuesday, y'all.

Bachelor Week 4 And Glad to Be Back At The Weekly Gathering of Believers

2012-01-23T05:30:00.000-05:00

Lindi here.

Not sure where to start this week since I did the recap from Ben's Big Adventure last week. I think he's in a heap of something with all those women. he seems so genuine and I think there are a couple of genuine girls left--I just hope he picks the right girl for him-if there is one among the bunch.
Just a thought off the top of my head--Ben--don't pick someone who looks older than you. I'm not sure if Blakely is older than you or not, but she looks it. She doesn't look good on you. :) And she's a troublemaker.

Now, onto the other subject of the day. I was in Seattle the last 2 weekends and I missed the Sunday morning and night gathering of believers. And I didn't just miss it in the sense that I physically wasn't there, I missed it in my heart. I missed worshiping with others who believe. I missed seeing my friends and having conversations with them. I'm a gal who doesn't like skipping the weekly gathering of believers. I hate to call it church per say, because we are the church, but I think you get the drift.

What about you? What do you miss when you can't attend your church for a couple of weeks?

Lindi Peterson--Happy Endings Are Just The Beginning

A State of Rowdy Disorder

2012-01-20T06:21:00.002-05:00

A State of Rowdy Disorder.... That is one meaning of Mayhem.

Christy here, and I experienced some mayhem 6 days ago when I entered the world of Chuck E Cheese.

Back up a week before that... It's after Christmas. New Years has just come and gone, along with my mother's birthday... I am giving you this background to prepare you for what is next.... It is my son's birthday. He'll be 2.... He is adorable, and everyone thinks so, not just this proud Mama, but to put it in perspective, he hit his 2's about 6 months ago.

William on New Years Eve, Post-Cupcake

I don't like to call them Terrible Twos because he's not terrible. He's just busy.

Super Busy.

Bathtime is a job in itself. The jumping in the tub, spilling water out of the tub, the splashing, the bubble eating, the jumping out of the tub, sliding onto the floor, running away from Mommy to where all we see is a flash of nakedness running through the house!

You get the picture.

Back up to the Sunday before his birthday. The big day would fall on a Tuesday. Last year, for his big 1 year celebration, this was what my house and my whole town looked like:

North Georgia had to shut down. Snow in the South = Southerners think it's pretty but we don't know how to handle transportation.

Needless to say, William did not get a formal birthday party, aside from his parents and sister spending it with him and singing happy birthday while he devoured and destroyed his cake.

Back to the Sunday before William's Tuesday birthday.... I had to have it some place. 2 is a big deal, after all.... His sister had a birthday party, where we invited people and served food and cake, every year for her birth days. I couldn't allow Sweet William to have anything less. I'd been looking online and pondering possible party places.Chuck E Cheese was my selection. God Bless the company, they were able to schedule me a party the following Saturday. They do it all... I bring the cake. Perfect for this working mom who already feels stretched from one end to the other...

We invited 4 families. Everyone showed up. Sweet friends.

Now, to the party. William may have been overwhelmed. He wanted to stay where the games were. He wanted to climb up on the skee ball machine. He wanted to throw said skee ball whereever he could - DUCK!!

When it came time for pizza and the big show, William wanted to run off.

My husband and I made laps at separate times during a 2 hour period, chasing after William. The highlight of my time there... or low light, because it wasn't a "good" moment, but certainly memorable, was when William took off in a mad dash away from our table, through the throng of strangers and their kids, to an unoccupied booth. He promptly grabbed a drink from the table and TOOK A SIP!

Oh, NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!

Germ city!!!!

Sometime after that incident, the little stinker fell asleep in my arms... long before the party was over.

The party table with other parties happening around us - A State of Rowdy Disorder, but, Lots of Fun

We were supposed to open gifts... I think I was chasing William at that juncture.

Chuck E Cheese was a place of fun, of legalized mayhem. Poor Chuck E was assaulted right in front of me by some rowdy nine year old boy. Another little blonde girl followed him around with a glazed stare. For a moment, I thought I'd been caught up in someone else's nightmare.

Anywho, we survived.

My husband, who can sometimes be picky and a little critical - but always my hero, praised my choice of party places, saying, "Yeah, this was a great idea. Never Again."

Simple Forgotten Fixes

2012-01-19T03:00:00.000-05:00

Angie here:

Sometimes we go a little too far because we've lost the habits from past generations. Do you know how easy it is to make homemade cocoa? And let's just think about how much less expensive and how much more tasty scratch cocoa can be.

Recipe for cocoa from scratch

1 serving

1 tsp cocoa

2 tsp sugar

2 tsp water

Stir to mix

1 cup milk

(Skim makes it healthier and is still more rich tasting than a powdered envelope mixed with water)

Stir.

Microwave 2 minutes (I do stir at one minute to keep from foaming over.)

One 8 ounce cup of cocoa is about 135 very healthy calories with about 9 grams of protein and great antioxidants. The sugar is only 30 calories of the whole. No chemicals, no watery taste, and is an awesome snack option on a weight loss diet. So why would you buy expensive powder packets?

Sure you can use a low-cal sweetner. But in moderation, sugar is not bad unless your doctor has you avoiding it for diabetes or other severe health problem.

Now think about how easy it is to make brownies. Seriously, the amount of ingredients in brownies isn't hard to put together for a fraction of the cost. I never buy those boxes. (Same with liquid egg products. We pay a lot more than if we simply toss the yolk.)

So the moral to my blog post? Why did we allow ourselves to be trained to conveniences that really aren't conveniences and really do take advantage of us financially. The cost outweighs the literal seconds it takes to mix flour, sugar, and cocoa on your own rather than pour it out of a box and still have to add egg, oil, and possibly water depending on the mix. Think about it.

What is so convenient about paying much higer prices for flour, sugar, and cocoa when you can do it yourself for 60 seconds more and huge savings.?

My examples are food related. But there are other simple forgotten fixes generations before us knew and are now lost to common use.

What past common sense behavior, item, or recipe do you think we've gone overboard on in modern times?

Oh, and I really prefer to add mini marshmallows rather than put up with the powder packet kind.

Thoughts?

Subject Lines that Capture You

2012-01-18T00:12:00.000-05:00

Missy, here. I subscribe to several online newsletters from businesses and websites/magazines. I often delete them without reading. But there are a few that I at least open to see what articles might interest me. Over the last couple of months, I've been keeping a list of those that attract my attention enough to make me click the links. It hit me that it could be helpful in titling our blog posts and author newsletter. Could also help us make our Tweets and FB status more intriguing.

So what makes me click through?

Some of the subject lines would be too embarrassing to admit! (They do tend to use some shock value to get your attention!) LOL Here are a few from email subject lines that I thought I'd share:

How to keep your new hair color from fading too soon

3 Must Follow Food Rules

Curried chicken with cranberries

What are the signs of mold allergy?

Hostess gift ideas

A caffeine addict's guide to the world

Upgrade your meat (really had me curious. In case you're wondering, if you go to grass-fed beef, you can reduce your abdominal fat {the beef provides an essential fatty acid that helps reduce it}!)

Free shipping on all orders!

Seven things every writer must do

Our Super Holiday Sparkly Tote is here (Yes, I'm a sucker for the word sparkly!)

Want to Eat Less? Try This Trick. (It's to use a larger fork! Can you imagine?)

6-Week Fat Melting Breakthrough

The Best 5-Minute Breakfasts Ever

Ten Ways to Generate More Blog Traffic (One thing he mentions is creating a killer headline!) :)

Okay, so what similarities did you see? (Besides the fact I love to talk and read about food--and getting healthy and skinny.) :)

Most of these subject lines offered me something. Knowledge. A bargain. Answers to questions. Solutions to problems I've had. So I think, in a nutshell, we need to tailor our blogs and newsletters to offer something people are looking for online.

Of course, that makes sense. And I already knew that. But it was interesting to me to see "proof." So, the hard part, now? Deciding what I know about, what I can offer. For me, that's always been the toughest question.

Ruth Logan Herne and I started a food blog, and I'm loving that! It's right up my alley. But my personal blog is pretty much stagnant. I need to make some decisions on that one, figure out what I can offer my readers.

What do you think? What topics make you stand up and take notice? What can you offer on your blog or in your newsletters?

*****

Missy's newest release, A House Full of Hope, is now available in print and e-book at www.harlequin.com! Click here to read excerpt.

The Bachelor Week 3-And When A Hero Does The Right Thing

2012-01-17T07:26:00.011-05:00

Lindi here.

Okay--the quick run down!
First Ben goes on a one/one date with Emily. They have to climb the Golden Gate Bridge--something I would never do. They are both afraid of heights and this is a really steep climb--and they have to keep moving these clips along this rail to keep going--anyway, I would have passed out half-way up.
And she acted like she was about to, but then he kissed her--and somehow it made it all better and worth it and really?
They had a nice dinner and when they kissed fireworks went off.
The girls back in the hotel room can see the fireworks and somebody says "Oh, she so got the rose."
They were right.

Then, the group date went skiing on the hills of San Fran in their bathing suits. Yes, you read that right. (Missy!! Did some people you know watch a preview of the Bachelor? Ha!)
Anyway, the street, balcony and roof tops were lined with people watching. It was kind of painful to watch. Not as painful as the after-party, though. Courtney is really working Ben--and he's so SWEET! He tells Jennifer she's the best kisser--I think she needed a different dress. He kisses Rachel and gives her the group date rose Kacie was really wanting.

Then a date card arrives for Brittney--my fav! Brittney's not so excited though. The process is a little much for her and she packs and leaves. Ben doesn't really get it and now he thinks about how any girl could leave at any time. :(

So the one/one date goes to Lindzi. He seems to really like her and he takes her several places and she thought they were all 'very cool!' I"m not sure about Lindzi-what I like most about her is that she seems to really like Ben.

Cocktail party time--and Ben gets a visitor. Funeral director Shawntel from Brad's season.
What?
She shows up and this really brings out the meanness in the girls who have it in them. As Taylor Swift sings---"Why you gotta be so mean?"
Ben, who is completely surprised, chats with Shawntel. The girls are really upset at the 'Newcomer!' Turns out she's sticking around for the rose ceremony. A couple threaten if she gets a rose, they're out of there! Ha--too good to be true. :)

Ben's first rose goes to Courtney--:( The second to Kacie. :)
After that it's blurred until the 'final rose.'

Shawntel is left along with a blonde, (Ben really seems to prefer brunettes), and Erika, I believe. The pressure is too much and Erika tries to faint. I don't think she really does, but she gets a lot of attention. Unfortunately for her not the right kind of attention from Ben who chooses not to give out the last rose.

All three go home and Ben tells the remaining girls they are going to Park City, Utah next week.
Maybe they'll put some clothes on and go skiing!

I did like that Ben didn't give Shawntel the rose--and if he wasn't 'feeling' it for the other two it was fair to say goodbye.

Don't we love it when a guy does the right thing? he looked like such a hero in the girls eyes! And I think he was.

Don't you love it when guys do things that just make your heart squeeze with joy? Is there something your guy--or your hero in a book has done for you lately?

Lindi P. Happy Endings Are Just The Beginning

The Bachelor Week Three - Oh, the Drama

2012-01-16T02:00:00.000-05:00

Mindy here. No, that's not a typo. Lindi and I switched days this week, so tomorrow she'll be giving us her version of what really happened on tonight's episode of The Bachelor.

Well, from the previews, I gather that the drama continues to build. Or, at least, that's what the producers want us to think. Looks like somebody faints and they're leading us to believe that one of the girls decides to leave. We shall see.

In the meantime, have a great Monday. If you're lucky enough to have this Martin Luther King Jr. holiday off, enjoy some peace and rest. If you think that's impossible, spend a little time with Your Creator, The One Who said, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." I promise you, He will do it.

Happy Monday, y'all.

Your Favorite Magazines

2012-01-12T00:45:00.000-05:00

Missy, here. And I've had two nice surprises. Two new magazines have started being delivered to my home--anonymously!

Woman's Day.

And Reader's Digest.

What's strange, is that I thought the first Reader's Digest was a sample, them sending me one to try to reel me in. But now, I suddenly received a second magazine. I think someone bought me a gift subscription! Did it happen to be any of you? :)

Okay, so I did call my mom and dad and ask if they sent me the Woman's Day. And yes, they did. I have a feeling the magazine sent a letter announcing the gift subscription, and I tossed it, thinking it was junk mail. Maybe I should call my parents back and ask about the Reader's Digest. :)

I recently blogged about picking up a copy of Guideposts Magazine at the hair salon. I've decided to subscribe. I was very inspired by the articles.

Do you regularly read any print magazines? Are there any you read on a Nook, iPad or other e-reader?

The Bachelor, Week Two - Pucker Up

2012-01-10T09:50:00.000-05:00

Mindy here. Well, last night's episode of The Bachelor started off on a good note. Ben brought the eighteen remaining women back to Sonoma, and Kacie B, our resident southern belle, won the first one-on-one date. This had to be one of the sweetest dates ever. He wanted to show her his hometown, to see how she would fit in, and he wanted it to be personal. There seems to be a natural chemistry between the two as they stroll down main street. The conversation flows from one topic to the other. They're genuinely getting to know one another. I like this, as opposed to the usual conversations that focus on the other women, things at the house, or where you know the girl is saying everything she thinks Ben wants to hear.

The date culminated with a trip to a vintage movie theater where they watched old home movies of each other, getting a further glimpse of the person sitting next to them. By the time it was over, both Ben and Kacie had tears in their eyes. Ben, whose father passed away, admitted it was the first time he'd heard his father's voice in five years and Kacie feels his pain.

She gets the rose. Yay!

Then we had our first group date. UGH!! Blakeley is determined to stand out. Apparently showing a good portion of her breasts is how she plans to do it. Embarrassing to watch when you see that the date is to do a community theater play with a bunch of kids. Unimpressed by her cup size, the kids chose Blakeley to dress in a gingerbread man costume that covers everything but her face. Ha! Kids, you gotta love 'em.

The play was cheesy, performed in front of a full house that included some of Ben's closest friends. The women can't help noticing how much Ben likes kids and how comfortable he is with them, scoring him big brownie points.

From here, the date, and last night's show, continued in a downward spiral. The wrap party after the play was full of drama. Lots of kissing. However, it is interesting to watch some of the kisses. Who initiates them? Does Ben lean toward her or her toward him?

When all is said and done, Blakeley gets the rose. SHOOT ME NOW!

Courtney gets the next one-on-one date. I have not cared for this chick since she stepped out of the limo. She's just a little too into herself for my tastes. And as the date card arrived, it's evident that she's there to beat out every other girl, not to find love. Oh, and to further her modeling career.

When Ben brings his dog along on the date, I'm hopeful. Dogs are usually a good judge of character. Still, Scotch doesn't bite Courtney. Then again, he didn't snuggle next to her either. Good dog.

They take a tractor ride through the vineyards, sans the dog, before settling in for a nice candlelit dinner. Courtney says all the right things, everything she thinks Ben wants to hear. She gets the rose and can't wait to gloat about her victory to the other women.

Finally, it's cocktail party time before the rose ceremony. The mood is very tense. Even Ben notices it, commenting that he didn't expect the tension and drama to happen so quick. Well Ben, you're a good guy. You're there because you genuinely want to find someone to share your life. Some of the women though, not so much.

Blakeley and Jenna provide the night's drama, while others, like Brittney and Lindzi just try to stay out of it. When all is said and done, Shawn (who we saw nothing of last night) and Jenna are sent packing.

Yes, there are some really great girls on this season of The Bachelor. I'm just waiting for Ben to get rid of the few bad apples. Hubby swears the producers tell him to keep them. I hope so, because I'd hate to think Ben doesn't see them pulling the wool over is eyes.

Now about those kisses. If you write romance, how do you approach that all-important first kiss? Who initiates it? Do you make it quick or let the reader linger over the moment?

Happy Tuesday, y'all.

The Bachelor Week 2 and Theme Songs!

2012-01-09T05:30:00.002-05:00

Lindi here.
Starting off with a Batchelor Ben update. First off, I LOVE this picture of Ben. :) I love his smile-I love that his T looks a little wrinkly. Natural.

I must say there is one word that describes the first episode of The Bachelor.

Crazy.

Some of these women are unbelievable. You are probably reading this thinking--duh? But I use the word unbelievable with great meaning here. I don't think some of those girls are believable--their motives, their words. I think some want to be in front of the camera. That seems to be a theme in these shows lately. I think some just wanted a diversion from life.
Who knows?
There were a couple of girls that I thought were really out of their element. Those are my favorites.
And of course there is a resident drama queen, who I'm not spending time and energy typing about.

My fav by far is Britney. I also like Lindzi, Kacie, Nicki and another Casey. I think Ben is partial to brunettes, so we'll see how that turns out.
I'm one of the watchers that doesn't watch for the drama. Honestly, it's annoying to me. I usually DVR so I can fast forward through the stuff that gets on my nerves. I like the one on one time--and the group dates are very interesting depending on what they are doing.

So, that's my recap from last week. Stay tuned to see if my fav's return! Or to see if my fav's change.

Now on to this weeks other post.
Theme songs for your manuscripts. I know we've talked about this before but I love talking about it, and Christy posted a couple of videos and I wanted to continue in the same vein.

I'm working on a manuscript now that is the first book in a trilogy. I also know a whole lot about the second book. The third book, I don't know too much info yet. But it will come--and I'm not going to write it until I'm done with books one and two, so there's time.
But when I do start writing it, I will have a theme song for it. I have no idea now what it will be, but you know I'll share it here when I do.

My first manuscript, Rich in Love's theme song is Sparks Fly by Taylor Swift. Not only do the lyrics give me inspiration, but the whole fast-paced vibe of the song inspires as well. I love the whole idea of kissing in the rain, being captivated by someone,two different personality types trying to work it out. Love it all.

My second manuscript, Rich in Hope's theme song is Beautiful Things by Gungor. First, if you haven't heard this song I urge you to give a look-see.
Beautiful words.
Beautiful music.
Beautiful message.

All perfect for my book about someone who looses their physical beauty and has nothing on the inside to draw from.

What are some songs that inspire you? If you are a writer, do you usually have a theme song for a book? Maybe more than one. Maybe a whole CD. For my 2012 release Summer Song the whole Remedy CD by The David Crowder Band was what I listened to while writing the first draft.

Lindi P. Happy Endings Are Just The Beginning

Zoom, Zoom, Zoom!

2012-01-06T23:30:00.000-05:00

Christy here and Zoom, Zoom, Zoom is how 2011 ended and how 2012 is beginning for me.

On a personal note, I started a new job at work. It was a lateral move and was a blessing so that I did not have to move my family to a different town. We're studying and testing. I'm finding it hard to sit still. I'm trying to be interested in what I'm learning as I'll need it for my job and wondering how what I am learning could be applied to a future novel ;)

I love that the author in me never sleeps!

Writing wise, I've dusted off a manuscript that has been in a drawer, or an inactive computer file folder, for several months and I'm prepping it to submit and query it. My inactivity on the blog has been my desperation to get this book revised and ready to mail. It's an urgent feeling of NANOWRIMO all over again, but in revision mode. The story feels fresh to me and I'm excited about it.

I recently ordered 4 new books. One was for research purposes... the author wrote her book in the same year my historical takes place. The others were simply for entertainment!

By February I hope to start spotlighting authors and their books on Fridays. I love to do that, to spread the word about new, interesting books and I like to talk about books that have been around for a while. Let me know if there's an author you'd like to see get some exposure, or a book you've read that you'd like to help spread the word about. I'll follow up from there to have them on FAITH.

You all may know that I love music. Right now, I can't get enough of Bryan Adams...

And, Lindi will appreciate this, I've discovered my local Christian Radio station doesn't play near enough of David Crowder Band. I've decided my next purchase will have to be their CD... or some MP3 player thingy that I can download some tunes. Certain songs help get my mind in the groove to write and right now, these guys are my inspiration.

Enough about me.... what's happening with you? New music you're listening to? New books you've read? Wanna see someone on this blog? Is it you???

My One Word--Missy Tippens

2012-01-05T03:00:00.000-05:00

My One Word for 2012

by Missy Tippens

Last year at the beginning of January, I shared my one word for 2011: Truth.

I thought I'd share with you my word for 2012. I hadn't thought much about finding a word for this year. I briefly considered it, but like I do for so many things, I tucked it away in the back of my mind to deal with later. Then, this morning, I went to get my hair colored (gotta start the new year off with some highlights!). :) And while I was sitting there with the foils stacked on my head like a Rolodex, I picked up a magazine. The January issue of Guideposts Magazine.

The reason I chose it was because on the cover was a photo of Debbie Macomber. As it turned out, the article was about her choosing her one word for each year just like she's done for decades. I immediately knew that I needed a word for 2012. And I also what my word was. I'd actually had it niggling me there in the back of my mind all along.

Contentment.

I want to study and practice contentment this year. To learn to be content no matter the circumstances.

Philippians 4:11 (Amplified Bible)
Not that I am implying that I was in any personal want, for I have learned how to be content (satisfied to the point where I am not disturbed or disquieted) in whatever state I am.

So, what's your word for 2012? Is God nudging you toward working on something this year?

*******
By the way!! I'm excited that my new book, A House Full of Hope, is now available at the Harlequin website! Print and e-book. Click here to read an excerpt!

Getting on the bus

2012-01-04T11:32:00.002-05:00

Angie here: Are you ready to get on the bus headed for the future?

School bus ferried senior boys to special Senior Night--the beginning of their future.

Today is the day for prayer, for planning the journey. Time to sit down and take it to God. I'm not sure the direction He wants for me this year yet and so have not set specific goals. But I'm at the station ready to "buy my ticket". I'm packing, getting dressed, and ready for the journey. I've been praying, but now I will begin planning with God's guidance.

I don't do New Year's resolutions. I set big goals based on those prayers and then break them down into my daily schedule to make them achievable. I've found this is most helpful and productive for me. But I stay focused and on the journey because the tasks for my goals are in my every day planning.

A few years ago, my son's senior class (fairly small school) had the boys get ready for Senior Night over at our house. Then the the bus driver (another parent) picked them all up in the decorated school bus. They took off to pick up all the girls at a few other houses. The parents all gathered at the banquet. The bus arrived with all the seniors on board, dressed to the hilt. As each one got off the bus, we parents formed a reception line. Photo ops and red carpet treatment! Senior Night honored the work these kids and families did to arrive at their goal of graduation. We celebrated!

Thinking about our goals with the bus in mind...
We go to a special place to get ready. (Take the time to prepare.)
We pick up everyone along the way and everything we need for the journey.
We arrive at the destination because we took the journey.
We celebrate. (The feeling of achievement is undeniably THE most fun!)

Major point: We must get on the bus to reach the destination and stay on the bus without getting off at a stop along the way.

Prayer: Lord, You know Your plans for me. Please help me to see clearly the road You have set before me. Lead me in the steps to reach the goals You have placed on my heart. Help me to not deviate from Your direction. Where do I place my next step? I'm at the crossroads, searching. Show me the way to go and I will go in it.

In Jesus name,

Amen

The Bachelor Returns

2012-01-03T02:30:00.000-05:00

Mindy here. In the last season of The Bachelorette, Ben Flajnik was broken-hearted by Ashley. In his words, he felt humiliated, but he has no regrets. Now he's back for another chance to find love.

However, the prospect of 25 woman has poor Ben just a little nervous. So, with a bolstering breath, he awaits the first limo. I'm betting he can't hear the squealing woman like we can. And everyone wants to make an impression. From big hats to pageant sashes, horses and grandmas, the latest season of The Bachelor is off and running.

Finally, Ben walks into the mansion to a round of high-pitched screams. And was it my imagination, or were these woman cattier than usual?

So our bachelor endures his first cocktail party. Monica crushes on Blakeley. Weird. Jenna is drunk and assumes the role of drama queen. Ultimately, the first impression rose goes to Lindzie C. (no limo for her, she arrived on Levi the horse).

Some of my faves were Kacie B., Brittney (she brought her grandma), Lindzie C., and Shawn. Lindi says she likes Kacie and Brittney.

And so the saga begins. Will Ben find love? I hope so. He's a good guy. But then, this is "reality" TV. I guess we'll just have to wait and see.

Are you watching this season of The Bachelor? Who were your favorite ladies? Who did you detest? Who do you think will make it to the end?

Happy Tuesday, y'all.

New Year-New Bachelor! Ben Flajnik

2012-01-02T05:30:00.006-05:00

Lindi here.

2012 is barely a day old and already the drama is starting!

Ben Flajnik, who got his heart broken by Ashley in the 2011 Bachelorette season, is now, tonight, starting his search for love, true love.

Bachelorette Cheat Sheet!
No lie--there is a Cheat Sheet where you can see all the Bachelorettes--and they've even drawn little lines, you know, so you can take notes about them. Wow!

And I noticed there was a Lindzi and a Lindsie. Interesting.

I also saw a preview where there was a woman old enough to be MY grandma--she had a walker I believe--she said she'd been in love with Ben since he was on TV last year--or something like that.
I'm sure that was great fun for the Network--also I'm sure Ben's heart rate went up really fast when he saw her get out of the Limo. I was thankful to see she wasn't on the Cheat Sheet.

I think you guys are going to have to indulge Mindy and I this year on our TV Quest For Love via The Bachelor. I just always hopes it works out. Statistically it doesn't, but you never know.

What about you? Do you believe in love at first sight? Or in six weeks?

Lindi P.
Happy Endings Are Just The Beginnings

Looking Toward the New Year

2011-12-29T03:00:00.000-05:00

Missy, here. I'm posting this a week ahead of time (to enjoy time off with family). So I hope I don't duplicate what someone else has posted in the meantime. :)

Have you started thinking about new year's resolutions? Do you even make them? Resolutions or not, I think it's really important to sit down and write down goals for the upcoming year. It's good to figure out where we plan to head or else at the end of the year, we may find we're in the same place we started.

What are some goals you have for 2012? We'd love for you to share. We'll also be here to help you try to keep those resolutions and/or meet those goals!

Wishing you a happy new year!

2011-12-28T13:06:00.002-05:00

January's pure beauty starts our year

2011 in Review

2011-12-27T02:30:00.000-05:00

Mindy here, wondering if anyone else out there is wondering where this year has gone. I guess mine started out fairly normal. About mid-year things got a little crazy, then smoothed out a bit before unraveling all together long about September. Since mid-November, life has been a blur and I've pretty much been in seclusion. Not a bad time of year to do that.

2011 has taught me to keep my focus on what's important and cherish those I love. Because you just never know what tomorrow might hold.

How did your 2011 rate? Anything stand out in your mind/world?

Happy Tuesday, y'all. See ya next year.

A Little Late

2011-12-26T09:51:00.002-05:00

Lindi here--at ten minutes until 10.

I guess because it's the banking/business world holiday day for Christmas, I thought blogging was on holiday. :)

Not really. But I've been blessed with an amazing family and and amazingly big family, so we've been doing Christmas all weekend and are continuing today. Off to my dad's house for the traditional pancake/sausage breakfast, (which is served at lunch time!) and presents and dinner--and we might be taking in that Falcon/Saints game later this evening.
I'm looking forward to just hanging.

I hope your Christmas time was fun-filled and spirit filled--and joyous.

'See' you next year!

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T07:49:00.001-05:00

Merry Christmas!!!!

Treat Every Day Like Christmas

2011-12-23T07:00:00.000-05:00

Christy here, wishing you all a happy and safe Christmas weekend!

Picture from Sodahead.com

And in the wise words of Buddy the Elf: "Treat every day like Christmas."

(I had to include something from the movie ELF. During this time of year, I love to post Buddy the Elf Quotes on my Facebook page while watching the shows...

Along with quotes from A Christmas Story (You know, "You'll shoot your eye out, Kid!")

On a serious note, wouldn't it be wonderful if every day we lived with the same happy spirit of giving, of longing to be with each other, to celebrate the Lord's holy birth?I think if I made the attempt to do that every day, I could make a difference. This may be my resolution for today and in the future. Because to be honest, I forget to treat every day like Christmas. Sometimes, I'm just plain Bah-Humbug!

I wanted to find a song to share here today and while I don't know if it will suit everyone's taste, I liked the fact that this clip is from back in the day and two of my favorite songs are featured...

Silent Night and The Little Drummer Boy.

Merry Christmas!

What We Have to Offer

2011-12-22T11:25:00.002-05:00

Missy, here. Angie's post yesterday got me thinking. It reminded me of the Little Drummer Boy, one of my favorite Christmas songs. During this holiday season, as we celebrate the birth of Jesus, our Savior, I hope we'll all think about what we have to offer Him.

Here are the words...

Little Drummer Boy

Come they told me
Pa rum pum pum pum
A new born King to see,
Pa rum pum pum pum
Our finest gifts we bring
Pa rum pum pum pum
To lay before the King
Pa rum pum pum pum
Rum pum pum pum
Rum pum pum pum
So to honor Him
Pa rum pum pum pum,
When we come.

Little Baby
Pa rum pum pum pum
I am a poor boy too,
Pa rum pum pum pum
I have no gift to bring
Pa rum pum pum pum
That's fit to give our King
Pa rum pum pum pum
Rum pum pum pum
Rum pum pum pum
Shall I play for you!
Pa rum pum pum
On my drum.

Mary nodded
Pa rum pum pum pum
The ox and lamb kept time
Pa rum pum pum pum
I played my drum for Him
Pa rum pum pum
I played my best for Him
Pa rum pum pum pum
Rum pum pum pum
Rum pum pum pum
Then He smiled at me
Pa rum pum pum pum
Me and my drum.

The Coolest Christmas Present Ever!

2011-12-21T01:46:00.000-05:00

Angie here: A genuine joyful smile beamed back at me at the coolest Christmas present ever!

Dustin sits in a wheelchair and speaks a little slower than most folks. He has a tough time remembering names. In fact, he asks me for my name every Sunday. And I give it with a handshake and a smile each time. He's had a major head trauma. He attends our church and has for several years and knows I'm often up front at the altar. But I had this last week off so I sat in the pews near Dustin.

Dustin chatted at me several times during service. Toward the end he asked, "Do you get paid to do your assistant minister job?"

(Here's what I normally do at church.)

Angie performing assistant minister duties. I lead the liturgy, prayers of the people, and assist with communion.

I smiled and said, "No. I volunteer because I love doing it."

He responded, "Oh, that's nice. I wish I had a job at church."

My mind raced to something I thought Dustin would be very, very good at--ushering. He has a knack for getting people to slow down, smile, and share their name. It's just this ability that our church needs to warm up and get to know one another a little better. I thought about it as we finished the last hymn. What if people did slow down and talk to each other as they came in the door? What if Dustin's talent for befriending people could be a gentle gift to the church he loves and to Jesus? That would be the coolest Christmas present ever!

After service I caught our pastor and shared an idea. He looked a little surprised, but jumped at it with enthusiasm too. I ran back into the sanctuary.

"Dustin, how would you like to be an usher?"

His assistant looked a little surprised too. "What would that mean?"

"Dustin would hand out bulletins and greet people as they come in the door. He'd need to be here about 20 minutes before service. Do you think that would work?"

Dustin's entire body showed his excitement. "Yes, I would like that." He said slowly. He couldn't stop grinning and leaned so far forward he almost fell out of his chair. He beamed bright with a genuine smile that showed the highest level of joy I've ever seen.

His attendant confirmed she could help him be here (she drives him each Sunday). "This is going to be great. I wish we'd have thought of this before!"

"Me too. Me too!" I wish I could describe the zing of happiness, the airy lift in my spirit as I watched Dustin talk about his new job. Days later I still smile thinking about Dustin and the joy he expressed.

We all left the church together planning for Dustin to start his new duties as soon as he gets back from Christmas vacation with his family.

I thought I was giving Dustin a gift. He had a simple request to serve in his church. But as I danced out to my car with my own beaming smile, I realized I had been given THE coolest Christmas present ever and it had nothing to do with a wrapped package!

Please share your ideas about giving the gift of pure joy.

PS: I get to share a little more joy during Christmas this year.

I'm giving away two books on Goodreads if you'd like to enter. Just click the link :-)

Merry Christmas, Y'all

2011-12-20T10:52:00.001-05:00

Mindy here. Well, here we are, in the home-stretch, heading straight for one of my favorite days of the year--Christmas. As this holiday season winds down, I'll be finishing up my shopping. Lord willing, I'll be done by the end of the day. Then it's onto wrapping and baking, surrounded by those I hold most dear. That aspect, being with the ones I love, seems to be a little more precious this year. After the chaos and uncertainty of recent months, it's comforting to withdraw and focus on what's really important.

Our big festivities will kick off with a Christmas Eve church service. Then it's home for a party--lots of finger foods and sweet treats. Once we've had our fill, the kids will open one present and settle in for readings of the Christmas story from Luke, followed by The Night Before Christmas.

Christmas Day will, no doubt, arrive early. Why is it that teenagers can sleep in every other day of the year, but come Christmas, they're up before the sun? They'll see what Santa brought them, then we'll have a nice, leisurely breakfast before the grand kids arrive. Then it's round two of gift-giving, followed by games, cooking, laughter, the big meal, and maybe even a little dancing. You just never know around here.

What's on tap for Christmas in your world? Quiet or chaos? How do you celebrate?

In closing, I want to wish you all the merriest of Christmases. May the Lord bless you and keep you. May His face shine upon you and give you peace.

Happy Tuesday, y'all.

Crowder Surprise

2011-12-19T05:30:00.001-05:00

Lindi here. (Well, duh---who else on this blog is going to post a Crowder post?)

So, hubby, daughter-in-law and myself were sitting at Passion City Church yesterday morning. Chris Tomlin and his band opened up with amazing worship. Then Brad, the announcement guy :), came out and did his thing, then pastor Louie Giglio normally follows, but there was a bit of a delay. And a little more delay. I started whispering to my dil about New Years Eve when my husband elbowed me. I honestly thought he was going to tell me to quit talking, but he didn't. Instead he said, "Crowder."
I look on the stage, and sure enough, there sat David Crowder on a stool, holding his guitar. He played an awesome Oh Come Oh Come Emmanuel.

Merry Christmas to me.

Then we proceeded to hear an amazing message from Louie Giglio which had me in tears, had my dil in tears and my hubby in tears as well.

Jesus lived for us. Died for us.
His story is for us.
Live for Him, not just this week or Christmas day, but every day.
Merry Christmas!

Missionary Loren: Bring the Homeless Poor Into the House

2011-12-16T06:42:00.001-05:00

Christy here.
I wasn't going to post today, because I didn't have anything much to say.

Last night, my husband urged me to read a blog post a friend of ours posted. Because the kids were wild and I'd just gotten home from work, the house was in chaos, I didn't get the chance.

I forgot about my husband's request.

This morning, I received a text from my husband who'd already gone to work. He was asking me if I'd read Loren's post.
Loren is our friend and he used to be our pastor. Loren has since moved on to work for Helping Hands Foreign Missions.
Before he answered the calling to missions, Loren started reaching out to some people in our community. I want to share
Loren's post with you today about one special person.

Missionary Loren: Bring the Homeless Poor Into the House: “Is this not the fast which I choose, To loosen the bonds of wickedness, To undo the bands of the yoke, And to let the oppressed go...

Using YouTube Videos to Learn

2011-12-15T03:00:00.000-05:00

YouTube is an amazing resource for writers. And really, for everyone! In fact, my son decided to learn some card tricks yesterday. He's now got me totally stumped by what he can do. Plus, he's also mastered making a card disappear. All by watching videos.

I recently watched some videos on knitting for research for a book proposal. Just to find ways to describe the needle work (because it's been years since I knitted).

I've gone to YouTube when I wanted to see someone making kale chips (my new favorite snack!). I've gone to find recordings of some church music when I wanted to blog about it.

And, of course, I've often watched hilarious videos just for the fun of it. My favorites are the funny pet videos. I also enjoy inspirational ones. As a Christmas treat, I'll share one with you today. Have you visited YouTube often? What about for learning something?

Spice It Up

2011-12-14T01:35:00.000-05:00

Angie here:
Did you know spices are a huge help to your health?Many are being studied for raising metabolism, managing blood sugar (like cinnamon), and lessening inflamation. Going into the Christmas season, we all enjoy lovely treats. Make them a little better for you by raising the amount of spices you use and help your metabolism out.


Pear Banana Bread with triple shot of cinnamon spice

I love breads, cookies, cakes... 1/2-1 tsp. of some super spices will help us with getting huge servings of antioxidants. Hmm, now I'm not feeling so guilty since I do spice it up with triple the spices in my recipes like Pear Banana Bread, Pumpkin Bread, and a variety of muffins or cookies.

Up the spices and lower the salt. The food will be flavorful and less chance of overdoing the sodium level for fluid retension. So what are some of these super spices?

Cinnamon (helps regulate blood sugar and raise metabolism.)
Red pepper flakes or cayenne (has capsaicin to raise metabolism.)
Ginger (Helps with digestive system and may help lower pain.)
Turmeric (super spice for healing, lowering inflamation, and raising metabolism by breaking up fat.)

Here's a link to a couple of sites about Super Spices for Super Health. One more link for information:
Weightloss for all

Think heat. Some spices will even work with your metabolism for hours after a meal like red pepper flakes or ginger.

How do you spice it up in the kitchen?

Slow Going

2011-12-13T09:20:00.000-05:00

Mindy here. You know, I'm used to moving through life at a frenzied pace, trying to do all those things I think I need to do. Lately, though, things seem to be progressing at a snail's pace.

I firmly believe that God often throws things into our path that are intended to slow us down. Even bring us to a complete stop. Psalm 46:10 says, "Be still, and know that I am God." Yet I get so caught up in running the race of life I sometimes miss what's really important. And while I tend to be a Christmas over-achiever, this year I'm content to let things happen in God's timing. I refuse to stress out because I still have so many gifts to buy, the decorations aren't over the top, or that I have yet to start my holiday baking. Instead, I'm going to enjoy my family, laugh, watch Christmas movies we've seen countless times, and bask in God's abundant blessings.

Has God ever had to get your attention? Thrown something into your path that's brought you to a complete halt? What was it and how did you respond?

Happy Tuesday, y'all.

Where We Are

2011-12-12T05:30:00.000-05:00

Lindi here.

I recently heard about a blogger who posted a review of a book that wasn't favorable. I can appreciate honest opinions. I have no issues with reviews and this post isn't about that.
What this particular reviewer stated was that the author didn't dig deep enough and lightly touched on certain subjects.
This is what I wanted to address. Most authors I know dig deep inside them for the stories they write. What might be deep enough in someone's eyes isn't deep for someone else. And while this reviewer was disappointed in this aspect of the story, I'm sure the story was perfect for someone else. God knew who was going to read this book and so I know this book filled the purpose God had for it.

What I took away from reading about all this, the review and author's response was this-
As readers we must think of where we are when we read a book. We must think of the message it has for us at that time. I read Redeeming Love about 2 months ago. I've heard about that book for years, was told more than once I should read it. But I didn't forever. I know God knew when I should read that book. It touched me in ways I can't begin to tell you about.

So, again, this isn't about posting negative reviews or not liking a book, this is just to say think about where we are in our lives when we are reading.

What books have you read that really touched you? Do you think part of the reason it affected you so much had to do with the place you were in life? What you were going though?

Shout Out to Other Bloggers: Part Two

2011-12-09T05:37:00.001-05:00

Christy here and I'm really wishing I'd gotten my act in gear and interviewed some authors to talk about today. But I haven't, so hopefully we'll be spotlighting some authors as we celebrate the new year.

I thought I would piggy back on Lindi's post from Monday. What a great time to wave hello and thank other bloggers for keeping things interesting on the web. I'm going to share a few of the blogs I visit regularly and tell you why:

Julie Garmon's Blog - http://juliegarmon.com/blog/ - Southern Stories of Grit and Grace

I receive Julie's blog posts in my in box. She writes about her family, her friends and acquaintances. She's brought me to tears and made me giggle. Whether Julie is talking about her mom or her best friend, you feel like you're right there with her. A story about folding clothes made me cry, as did the one about her friend who was taking chemo and met another lady, an older lady than Julie's friend, who was taking chemo too, but she was too busy to concentrate on her own sorrow and was trying to liven every one else up. Oh, and that same story mentioned pink, or polka-dot boots. The visual was clear. I could see the boots. I could see those ladies, even through my own tears.

Redwood's Medical Edge - http://www.jordynredwood.com/- Medical Fact for your Fiction

I've been a fan of Jordyn Redwood's blog for some time now. I'm a lurker, only commenting few and far between. However, I look at this blog as a great source for research. Jordyn blogs about medical procedures from the past as well as present. I believe she once posted about administering CPR. Recently she posted about labor and delivery. She has guest bloggers on quite often who provide their knowledge about everything from nursing to pharmacutical practices. I always take away additional knowledge from Jordyn's blog and that was why I stopped by in the first place.

PJM's Old Picture of the Day - http://old-photos.blogspot.com/

I don't know PJM other than what he has on his bio that he's from West Texas. What I do know is that PJM shares some awesome, old pictures. Yesterday he posted a picture of New York in 1905. I ran across this blog in my research and promptly saved it as a favorite. This blogger has over two thousand followers, so you see I'm not the only one interested in yesteryear. Take a look at his photos, and let the photos take you back... oh, what stories could be told!

I invite you to share more of the interesting blogs you visit. Have a great weekend!

To Do Lists That Never Seem to End!

2011-12-08T03:00:00.000-05:00

Missy, here. We've started the decorating around our house this past weekend. But I admit, it's stalled. This is our tree with lights, no ornaments. And actually, this is the Pre-Missy version. These are the lights the kids slapped up, but I always go along behind them and rearrange. :) Yes, gaps in lights drive me crazy. And I, therefore, drive the kids crazy. They just roll their eyes and move on to the ornaments.

BUT...this year, we got sidetracked by other activities the day we put up the tree. Now it's going to the the weekend before we get back to it. You'll also notice the bare mantel. I guess that'll be done on the weekend as well. Plus, hanging the lights outside. (The wreath, at least, is up.)

This halfway job is bugging me. I have a list a mile long of things that need to be done, and I don't seem to have checked off anything.

Are you in the same boat? And if you're one of those who is totally ready for Christmas, I'll try not to be too jealous. But I might have to hate you just a little bit. ;) (Just kidding!)

Please share how your holiday prep is going. Also, if you're having a tough holiday this year because of loss, I hope you'll share that as well. We don't want to forget you in all the hustle and bustle.

Missy

Biblical Handwriting Analysis

2011-12-07T00:04:00.001-05:00

Angie here:

Did you know Paul used his handwriting to prove his identity? Would friends and family know how to identify you simply from the look of your handwriting?

Can you tell it's me by my handwriting?

2 Thessalonians 3: 17 "I, Paul, am writing this greeting with my own hand. This verifies that the letter is from me, as in every letter of mine." Paul's suggesting his letter be submitted for handwriting analysis. Look! See this is my handwriting to prove I wrote this letter. It's that important!

Have you noticed this verse before? I've read this book of the Bible, but never caught the significance of this statement. He's actually telling the Thessalonians to compare his handwriting to prove the letter is from him. (There's a great reason to send a handwritten note rather than an email!) In fact, he personally wrote every letter to the Thessalonians. He didn't use a scribe which was standard in those days. The messages he sent to these people were so important, Paul did not leave it to someone else to do. He wanted the recipients to know the letters were authentic so he started the first biblical handwriting analysis to provide the proof.

In fact in this chapter, Paul warns the people of falsehoods and to avoid believing things that aren't in keeping with what they've been told before. This is something we can do too. If new teaching doesn't match the blueprint, question it. Test the teaching against the foundation of the teaching.

How might this apply today?
How might this apply with new "enlightened" social mores?

Giving Thanks

2011-12-06T03:00:00.000-05:00

I'm baaaaaaack.... Yes, after being AWOL for the past three weeks, Mindy is finally returning to her routine. Or at least attempting.

Now the title of this post may seem a bit belated, but I am giving plenty of thanks these days.If you'll indulge me, I'd like to share what God has been doing in the lives of the Obenhaus clan. But let me say up front that I don't want to hear "I'm so sorry" from any of you. Instead, I want you to rejoice with me.

Our family has had an event-filled few months, starting with a wild fire that encroached on our ranch over Labor Day weekend. The following weekend, we returned to survey the damage. The house was intact, though we lost over a hundred acres of timberland. However, God designed nature to recover from the ugly scars fire can bring. From the ashes, we will soon see lush new growth.

Shortly before we were due to go home again, my husband fell trimming branches. At the small town emergency room they said (and I kid you not), "His back in broken and we fear the break is pressing on his spinal cord so we will need to CareFlight him to Houston for surgery. Oh, and there is also a mass on his kidney."

Ah, but God worked wonders during the flight to Methodist Hospital in Houston. Not only was the break not pressing on my husband's spinal cord, he did not require surgery. Instead, he wore a brace for seven weeks. Not pleasant, mind you, but way better than the alternative.

But what about the mass? We asked that question repeatedly. The doctors ran a second scan and initially told us it was nothing, just a gelatinous mass. About fifteen minutes later, the same doctor returned to say we should still probably have our regular doctor follow up on it and they would give us a copy of the scan to take with us. We took that scan with us when we went to visit our doctor several days later for a follow up. He too was not alarmed. Said a sonogram would be more conclusive and that could wait until Richard was out of the brace.

On October 31, Richard was freed from his "turtle shell," as we called it. The very next day, November 1, he had the sonogram. Three days later, they told us it was a solid mass and he would need to see his urologist right away. Five days later, we learned that my husband did indeed have kidney cancer. The doctor was optimistic, though, confident that it was confined to the tumor. Five long days after that meeting, November 14, Richard had his right kidney removed. Again, the doctor assured us that he saw no evidence the cancer had spread. We breathed a sigh of relief. Richard was on the road to recovery.

The day after his surgery, my husband started bloating. He was miserable, so distended he looked as though he was eight months pregnant. They threaded a nasal-gastric (NG) tube through his nose and into his stomach--not pleasant to watch, let alone endure--hoping to relieve some of the pressure. He was labeled as NPO, meaning he could have nothing by mouth. No food or drink.

All the while, nurses and doctors kept telling us this was normal. That sometimes it took longer for the intestines to wake up from the anesthesia and the E Leus, as they called it, would just have to work itself out. In the meantime, I watched my man grow increasingly more agitated. He was in so much pain. He couldn't breathe normally and developed chronic hiccups from the pressure on his diaphragm. Three days after he'd last eaten, he started vomiting. Think of the sewer backing up into your house. Yeah, that's what was going on with his body.

You know, it's really hard to hold yourself together when your husband looks at you and tells you he doesn't think he's going to live through the night. I told him I just couldn't believe God had brought him that far to take him now. After all, if he hadn't broken his back, we would never have know about the kidney cancer until it was too late. Yet, as I watched Richard sleep, his face pale, his breathing ragged, that little voice in the back of my mind said, "What if God does decide to take him?"

Rather than ignore the question, I pondered it. What if? What if I lost my best friend? What if I were suddenly a single mother? What if my worst fear came true? Then what?

Then God would get me through that as well.

As the E Leus lingered, the doctor ordered a CT scan, wanting to make sure they weren't dealing with a blockage. The next thing I knew, we were visited by a pulmonologist because while the scan did not show any signs of a blockage, it did reveal a pulmonary embolism.

God had done it again. You see, three Bible verses kept replaying across my mind:

Genesis 50:20 NIV "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done...."

Romans 8:28 KJV "... all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose."

Jeremiah 29:11 NIV "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

Everything that the enemy intended to harm my husband, God turned for good. If Richard hadn't fallen, we wouldn't have found the cancer, which pathology confirmed was indeed confined to the tumor. If he hadn't had the E Leus as long as he had, they would not have order the scan and wouldn't have discovered the blood clot on his lung.

God's ways are not our ways. We see the broken back. God sees the kidney cancer and finds a way to reveal it to us. So I thank God that Richard broke his back. I thank God for the E Leus. I thank God for his promises.

Well, our two to three day hospital stay ended up being ten days. I say we because I was there with him every day, every night. We came home on Thanksgiving Day to turkey and all the trimmings provided by my sons' Boy Scout troop. Talk about blessed.

Has life ever thrown you a curve ball? Have things not gone the way you planned? Yeah, it may not be pleasant. But if you are a child of God, it's all part of a plan that is bigger than anything we could dream or imagine. Cling to Jeremiah 29:11, put your hope in God, and trust Him with your future.

Happy Tuesday, y'all.

Shout Out To Other Bloggers

2011-12-05T05:30:00.002-05:00

Lindi here.
I thought today I'd give a SHOUT-OUT to some bloggers. These are blogs I enjoy visiting. I'm not including the F.A.I.T.H. girls in this post because they are a given and their blogs/websites are to the left on the side bar--you guys can hop over any time.
I've listed these blogs in no particular order.

Ciara Knight
First, Ciara is a good friend of mine. She's an amazing writer and has an amazing handle on blogging and the web-world out there. She's been such a help to me in so many ways. I've met other bloggers through her. She also started a feature Did I Notice Your Book in which every week she picks an unknown author and highlights his or her book. Then she sees if the author notices via all the social networking that Ciara has 'noticed' their book. Very clever and fun. (Let's see if Ciara finds out I posted about her here today!)

Kristin Billerbeck
First, I love Kristin's writing. Her Ashley Stockingdale novels started me on my journey to writing Her Best Catch. i like Kristin's blog because she posts several times a day, sometimes. Her posts are usually short, funny, and to the point. She doesn't sugar-coat life or the truth. I love her honesty. And I think the girl is as big of a David Crowder fan as I am. So, really? Could I not read her blog?

Seekerville
Talk about a blog where you can find out anything! Craft, industry, personal stories. Seekerville has it all! I mean you never know what sort of information you'll get on a daily basis from this extremely talented group of ladies and the guests they have on board on any given day. They are constantly having give-aways. Honestly, the post office has nothing to concern themselves over unless Seekerville shuts down. They started with a very clever concept about getting off Unpubbed Island. Now that they are all published, they've made a town. Missy and Ruth are running the Yankee-Belle Cafe where lots of good food is being talked about and tasted. Yum. Love this blog.

There are a few other blogs I really like, but I'll save those for another post. Are there certain blogs you like to visit everyday? What type of blogs interest you? We'd love to hear about them.

Lindi P. Encourage The Journey Mondays

Sharing a Bible Verse (Different Versions)

2011-12-01T03:00:00.000-05:00

Missy, here. I wanted to share some Bible verses with you. Yesterday, I was fine-tuning the premise of my wip and thinking about theme verses. I came across this very familiar passage. But for a different perspective, I clicked over to the same verses in The Message. The wording really brought the passage alive for me, and I thought it might for you, too. I'll post both the NIV and The Message. I'll also share a new translation which I like as well, The Common English Bible (Published in 2011). These are all pasted from Biblegateway.com.

1 Corinthians 13 (NIV)

¹ If I speak in the tongues^[a] of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. ² If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. ³ If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast,^[b] but do not have love, I gain nothing.

1 Corinthians 13 (CEB)

Love: the universal spiritual gift

¹ If I speak in tongues of human beings and of angels but I don’t have love, I’m a clanging gong or a clashing cymbal. ² If I have the gift of prophecy and I know all the mysteries and everything else, and if I have such complete faith that I can move mountains but I don’t have love, I’m nothing. ³ If I give away everything that I have and hand over my own body to feel good about what I’ve done but I don’t have love, I receive no benefit whatsoever.

1 Corinthians 13 (The Message)

The Way of Love

¹ If I speak with human eloquence and angelic ecstasy but don't love, I'm nothing but the creaking of a rusty gate. ²If I speak God's Word with power, revealing all his mysteries and making everything plain as day, and if I have faith that says to a mountain, "Jump," and it jumps, but I don't love, I'm nothing. ^3-7If I give everything I own to the poor and even go to the stake to be burned as a martyr, but I don't love, I've gotten nowhere. So, no matter what I say, what I believe, and what I do, I'm bankrupt without love.

So what do you think? What are your favorite translations/versions of the Bible?

Did You Nano? Goal Setting

2011-11-30T03:00:00.000-05:00

Angie here: Be sure to scroll down for the discount codes good on www.AngelaBreidenbach.com at the end of this post.

Did you nano? Nanowrimo participants set the goal of 50K words in a month. It's a tough one to do because in order to reach that goal, you have to write 1666 words a day. The problem comes in working, holidays, and little urgencies that pop up. It's a race against the clock.

One problem in goal setting is disappointment with failure to achieve.

Here's my question: Why would you be disappointed when you're so much closer? Confidence and success are built on small steps forward. Reaching a goal is a series of steps.

Look backward. How many more steps forward are you than you were when you started? This little exercise not only builds my confidence in my progress, but it builds hope and excitement that I'll really make it to my goal.

I did sign up and nano. I'm thrilled to report I am way ahead of where I started. No, I didn't reach 50K, but by the end of today I expect to be very close to 35K words. Am I disappointed? Not at all. I'm well over half way through my book and at the rate I'm going, I'll get Christmas off to spend with family. Because I posted my wordcount daily, I can see each step of the way. I can also see the days I had struggles. Excellent information for me for future planning. I can understand the patterns of my struggles and learn to overcome those patterns. That's a huge success for my future goal setting.

Did you nano or set a personal goal? How did you do?

Reaching a goal isn't because you magically hit it. It's because you keep shooting for it. My goal isn't really 50K words. It's to have a full edited manuscript to my publisher, Abingdon Press, by Feb. 15th. But I used Nanowrimo to kick start me in the right direction. I loved the daily reporting. I'm working on commercial fiction. I'm happy with where I'm headed because I set the goal and it feels reachable because I used the tools available to me.

Happy goal setting!
Angie
PS: This is the last day of the 25% off sale on my website for all my books. Here's the codes you'll need to plug in for those specials:
black25CCC for Creative Cooking for Colitis ebook
black25 for Gems of Wisdom: For a Treasure-filled Life
black25CS for Creative Cooking for Simple Elegance ebook
black25CSP for Creative Cooking for Simple Elegance paperback book

Use these codes to buy books and ebooks at: www.AngelaBreidenbach.com

Update on Mindy

2011-11-29T09:18:00.001-05:00

For some of you who may be wondering where Mindy has been lately, I thought I'd fill you in. Her husband had major surgery, so she's been occupied caring for him. He's home from the hospital now and improving day by day. I hope you'll keep them in your prayers!

Missy

Influencers and Endorsers

2011-11-28T05:30:00.002-05:00

Lindi here.

Have you ever been an influencer? Endorser?

I love doing both!

This is how I got involved. (It's my story--and I'm sticking to it!)

I saw on a loop that influencers were needed for Alice J. Wisler's book Hatteras girl. With a cover like that, who could resist? I hadn't been an influencer before, but I volunteered. Shortly after getting the appropriate people my address I received a copy of the novel in the mail. I read it, liked it, wrote reviews about it, did a blog post about it. And I told people about it. It was fun and I got to read a great book.

So then, on another loop I saw that endorsers were needed for Linda Windsor's second novel in The Brides of Alba series, Thief.

Well, I had read Linda's first novel in the Brides of Alba series, Healer. Absolutely LOVED the book, so I jumped at the chance to be an endorser of the book Thief.

I'm sure you notice the words influencer and endorser are two different words. But I read them to mean the same thing. So I sent an email to the appropriate people and was mortified when I realized that I had requested to be an endorser. Yikes--my novel hadn't even come out yet. But, the next thing I know I received an ARC for Thief! I was thrilled. I read the book then filled out a form and faxed it over with my 'endorsement.' A few months later I received a copy of the book---and it had my endorsement in the front with other authors who had endorsed the novel. I was thrilled!

So, when I saw that Alice J. Wisler needed influencers for her novel, The Wedding Invitation, I jumped at the chance. I mean really, look at this cover! How beautiful and intriguing! (I know I'm overdoing the exclamation points today--just go with it--this is exciting stuff to me!!)

I know the difference between influencer and endorser. I just need to make sure which one I'm signing up for. Now I'm addicted. I love doing both. I get great books to read, from great authors who write them. What's wrong with this picture?

Nothing!

Which brings me to a request--if you are reading this blog, and you haven't read my book, Her Best Catch, and you want to be an influencer, leave your email address in the comments section and I'll send you a book. I appreciate all those who've already read and put up great reviews for Her Best Catch. This business is tough--but if we all help out when and where we can, it's fun and beneficial!

Don't forget to visit my blog today---Encourage the Journey!

Lindi P. Happy Endings Are Just The Beginning

Scentsy Launch Party!!!!

2011-11-25T03:00:00.000-05:00

Christy here and if you are reading this post, you have either already gotten up super early to take advantage of the great deals because it is Black Friday, or, you aren't going out to the malls or any retail establishments today because you refuse to fight the crowds!

Thank the Lord for the Internet! Great deals available here, too!

I'm at home today, planning to get some organizing done and hang out with my little guy as my daughter is with grandma.

I'm also celebrating the launch of my Scentsy business!

Yes, yes, I'm still writing.

Yes, I'm still working my 9-5 job.

But a while back I was introduced to Scentsy wickless candles.

The Scentsy system is where you have a warmer that is a beautiful piece of pottery as you see in the photo to the right. You plug the warmer into a near by electric socket which lights a low-watt bulb. At the top of the warmer is where you put your wax. The scented wax heats and as it heats, puts out the most magnificent aroma. There are over 80 scents to choose from. The variety of scents is from clean scents to woodsy to masculine scents.

I love candles, but with young children, accidents happen. Sometimes, we adults are accident prone. The thing I like about Scentsy wickless candles is that the wax doesn't get too hot to touch. Even while the warmer is plugged in and the scent is being produced, I can still dip my finger into the wax. It feels like warm bath water. So, if my child accidentally knocks the warmer over, he won't get burned.

Also, using wickless candles doesn't blow black soot into your home like standard candles.

This is a picture of Scentsy's Silent Night plug in. These are just darling! Great to plug in a bathroom, for example. But you can plug them anywhere!

I love this product because you have a nice scent for the room plus a night light.

I had to share some of our Christmas products with the Silent Night Plug in shown above and the Gingerbread Full Size Warmer as shown to the right.

These are a fun way to decorate your house. Also, they're great as gifts! With Christmas coming, you'll need to buy for family members, friends, teachers, coaches. Why not by them a Scentsy System!?

Scentsy has a product for everyone. On the left, this is our Anti-bacterial Fragrance Foam. Black Raspberry Vanilla is one of my favorites, and a part of my personal collection.

Scentsy also has scent circles - I like to put these in my car. I also have one hanging in my children's room. The circle comes in purple as shown above, and has been dipped in the fragrant wax. It doesn't overpower the room or the car.

Above, I'm showing you a Combine and Save pack. Scentsy has some great deals with Combine and Save which was one deal I took part in when I made my first purchases. Here, you will get a Premium Full Size Warmer, a Full Size Warmer and 6 Scentsy Bars of your choice. In this combination, you are saving $15!

My launch party is going on now, on my Scentsy website. I'd love it if you did some of your Christmas shopping through my Scentsy Website and here's a link to the Fall/Winter Scentsy Catalog.

Leave a comment for me today and I'll pick three winners and send you a Scentsy Circle to show my appreciation to launch my new business!!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T03:00:00.000-05:00

All of us here on the F.A.I.T.H. blog wish you a happy Thanksgiving!

We're thankful to God that you hang out with us each day and that you share a bit of yourselves with us. We're blessed!

Black Friday Specials

2011-11-23T10:47:00.001-05:00

Angie here: In honor of the small section of population that would rather make gifts or buy online to avoid the crush and crowds, I'm going to offer some Black Friday Specials on my website.

So if you would like one of my books, visit http://www.angelabreidenbach.com and enter the codes: black25 for Gems of Wisdom
black25CCC for Creative Cooking for Colitis ebook
black25CS for Creative Cooking for Simple Elegance ebook
black25CSP for Creative Cooking for Simple Elegance paperback (there are only 5 or 6 of these left.)

You'll get a 25% discount off the cover price :) I've added it so you can go ahead and get a jump on your shopping. No crowds, no crush, no traffic. I hope these Black Friday Specials will be helpful to you and keep your holiday time less stressed and rushed.

Do tell me who you are buying it for and I'll autograph the books for you. There's a little message that should pop up to let you add comments to me.

Can you tell I don't like going out on Black Friday? How about you?

May your Thanksgiving be full of joy!

Angie

Did I Notice Your Book?

2011-11-21T05:30:00.003-05:00

Lindi here:

Every week author Ciara Knight hosts a fun deal on her blog. It's called Did I Notice Your Book? She picks a book with a great cover and interesting blurb. A lot of times it's a debut author--it's never a bestselling author. She posts the book cover, a blurb and the reason she chose the book. Then she sees if the author notices that Ciara has highlighted her book. It goes out on Twitter, FB and all other types of social media. It's fun to follow along and see if the author does come over and make a comment.

Next week, on Thursday December 1st, Ciara is hosting a Did I Notice Your Book blog hop. Christy and I are participating. I have the sweet romance category and Christy has the Inspirational Category. It should be lots of fun. Make sure you guys check out Ciara's blog and the other blogs like Christy's and mine that are participating.

Ciara has been a great friend to me in so many ways. She really is a great marketer and I've learned so much from her.

What kind of fun blog things have you guys heard of or done?

DEATH IN DAHLONEGA WINNER!!!!

2011-11-20T06:35:00.001-05:00

Congratulations, Anne Payne!

You are the winner of Death in Dahlonega,

debut novel from Deborah Malone!

Author Spotlight ~ Deborah Malone

2011-11-18T00:00:00.000-05:00

Christy here and I have been having so much fun hosting new authors here on FAITH. Today, please welcome Deborah Malone, a Cozy Mystery author who's first book has just released from Lamp Post Publishing!!

Bio:

Deborah has worked as a freelance writer and photographer,since 2001, for the historical magazine “Georgia Backroads.” She has had many articlesand photographs published during this time. Her writing is featured in “Talesof the Rails” edited by Olin Jackson. She has also had a showing of herphotographs at Floyd Medical Center Art Gallery as well as winning severalawards.
She is a current member of the Georgia Writers Association, and a member ofAmerican Christian Fiction Writers.

Christy again.... I just want to add that Deborah has a great blog where she is always reviewing books and does giveaways all the time. Deborah is graciously giving away her book Death in Dahlonega.

Leave a comment or ask a question if you'd like and we'll draw the winner this Sunday, November 20th!

So come pull up a chair and bring your nice, warm cup of tea or creamy-rich coffee - it's cold today, Y'all - and let's have a nice chat!

************************

How long have you been writing?

I remember as a child I tried towrite a mystery. Of course, I didn’t get past a few pages, but I’ve alwayswanted to write. I began to write seriously in 2001 when I started freelancingfor the magazine “Georgia Backroads.” I began writing my novel about five yearsago.

Do you have an agent? Share a little about your journey to publication.

I don’t have an agent. AfterI finished my first draft I set it aside for a couple of years to do otherthings in my life. Then I discovered “Christian Fiction” and I knew that iswhat I wanted for my books. I rewrote “Death in Dahlonega” as a Christian cozy.I joined ACFW and learned as much as I could about writing and editing. I hadalready been attending conferences, reading books, etc. I was stuck and didn’t know what I needed todo next. I discovered you can’t edit your own book as well as someone else. Ifound a cozy editor and had her (Candice Prentice) edit it for me. Then Ilearned how to write a proposal and started submitting it to Christianpublishers. I found out you need an agent for the bigger houses so I startedsubmitting to smaller ones. This paid off for me. Lamp Post Publishing offeredme a contract and I’ve been very happy to be part of their family. It tookabout six months working with their editors before “Death in Dahlonega” wasfinally published. As you can see it can be a long road to publication.

What’s the bestwriting advice you’ve been given? What’s the worst?

The best advice was tonever give up. And when you have done all you can to get a professional editorto edit your manuscript. The worst advice – I guess this would be somecritiques I’ve had. You can take five people and have them critique your workand it will all be different. Some will like it and others won’t. There is a point where you have to go withyour gut.

What inspires you towrite? Do you begin with your characters or the plot? I don’t really knowof anything that inspires me to write. I enjoy the researching and then thefinished product. The writing is the hard part. Sometimes I just have to makemyself sit down and do it. I came up with my main characters first. Thensecondary characters sort of evolved out of the plot.

Are you a plotter or aSOTP writer?

Well I kind of SOTP to start off with and as I get deeper intothe story I have to make an outline so I’ll know where I’m going. But I neverhave a detailed outline.

Where can your readersfind you on the web?

I would love to hear from readers and they can go to www.deborah-malone.comor they can visit my blog where I have giveaways atwww.deborahsbutterflyjourney.blogspot.com

About The Book:

A friendly adventure turns to murder and mayhem in the northGeorgia mountains. Historical writer Trixie Montgomery is asked to cover GoldRush Days in the picturesque Georgia mountain town, Dahlonega. Trixie seizesthe chance to mix business with pleasure and asks her best friend, Dee Dee totag along. Their well laid plans go awry when Dee Dee is discovered standingover the lifeless body of prominent citizen, John Tatum - the very man she'dhad a run in with earlier that day - holding a bloody pickax in her hands. CanTrixie find a way to finish her assignment and keep Dee Dee out of the slammer?

Winner in American Christian Fiction Writers' Category Five writing contest!

Deborah, Thank you so much for being here today!!

Showing vs Telling

2011-11-17T03:00:00.000-05:00

Missy, here. And first off, check out my new cover!! I love it. :) A House Full of Hope is coming in February (and can be pre-ordered now!).

Okay, thanks for letting me share. :) Now on to a topic that's been on my mind lately. I've been taking a fantastic online class with Shirley Jump (she's an amazing teacher), and this week, she's having us brush up on showing instead of telling. Since I've been focusing on improving this in my own wip, I thought I'd make up an example to help anyone who may be struggling with this as well.

Here's an obvious example of telling, although I'm sure I did this when I began writing...

The boy stood at the front door, obviously high, smiling.

John was so furious he was shaking. He told the obnoxious boy to get out of his way as he barreled through the door. He found his daughter on the couch, smoking a cigarette. Not wanting to give her a chance to argue, he just pointed and told her to go outside and get in the car.

She smirked and refused.

That was strictly telling, and it made it really passive. Here's a shot at doing a better job of showing...

The boy stood at the door, eyes bloodshot and half open. "Hey, man. Whaz up?" He staggered as he tried to hold his head up. The sickly sweet smell of pot radiated out of the house.

Flashes of light sparked behind John's eyes, blinding him. He clenched his fists until his arms shook as he fought the urge to knock the punk across the room. He took a deep breath to clear his vision. "Get out of my way."

He barreled through the door and found his daughter on the couch, smoking a cigarette.

She rolled her eyes. "Oh, man. What are you--"

"I don't want to hear it." He pointed at the front door. "Get in the car. Now."

After a long, deep draw on the cigarette, she blew out smoke rings. Five puffs of white that floated above her head. Then she lifted one side of her mouth in a hateful smile. "Make me."

Note: If you ever need to add to your word count, this is the trick for you! :)

Okay, so that was better. But I struggled with the flashes of light behind his eyes. I really wanted to say: Fury made flashes of light spark behind his eyes. But again, I'd be naming the emotion. And it's better to try not to name the emotion. Instead, show it. Showing is also a great method for adding description and dialogue. It makes everything much more active and engaging.

I'd love to have you share an example, just for fun. One of your own. Or, you can choose a writing exercise challenge. I'll give you a starter, and you improve on it. It'll be fun to see the different ways we do it.

Here's a starter:

Billy Bob heard someone bang on the front door. It nearly scared him to death. So he hollered to ask who it was.

The person didn't answer. Just banged again. Billy Bob wondered if it was the escaped prisoner he'd heard about on the television earlier that day.

"Who is it?" he yelled loudly, trying to sound mean. He thought he might throw up. Or cry. Neither would be good in front of Susie Q.

"Billy Bob, I'm scared," Susie Q whispered quietly.

He felt totally humiliated and wondered why she didn't feel safe with him. "It's okay, Susie Q. I'll take care of you."

She looked doubtful.

When the door started to open, he got so scared, he ran. Then he thought better of it and hurried back to grab Susie Q's hand.

Fear and anger warred on her face.

He just hoped that Susie Q could someday forgive him.

Okay, Missy again. I have to say I had entirely too much fun writing that. :) Now...have at it!

Hint: Shirley Jump has a really helpful article on her website. Click here if you'd like to read it before attempting to do the challenge.

So You Want to Write A Book?

2011-11-16T00:00:00.000-05:00

Angie here:
Sometimes the book we write is something so different than what we think it is. We think the story will race out of our brain onto the page. Mere weeks later, an astonishing tome appears. Uh huh.

So what do you do when you want to write a book, but it doesn't come like magic from your fingers?

My suggestion is to write, brainstorm with friends, write again, and pray for God to inspire you with His message. I think, like me, you'll be surprised at the outcome. And no, it isn't in the first draft.

Yes, we need to love our characters and our story but sometimes I believe it's about the verb (action) of love just like real life. We learn to love our spouse after the "in love" has worn off. We learn to live love as an action.

I've learned writing is the same. I have to act the love to learn the love to have the love and then the love will come. It's dedication and determination. Love will come as a result of the action.

PS It works that way with relationships too.

Do you have an example to share?

Getting Ready to Write Your Novel-:)

2011-11-14T00:01:00.013-05:00

Lindi here.

Today I'm bringing up the subject of how we get ready to write a novel. But this doesn't have to pertain to just writing a novel. Whenever you start something you usually prepare in some way.

Now, before you think--oh, this is going to be a post about research, I'm here to tell you it's not. Although research is important I'm not speaking about that kind of getting ready.

No, I'm talking about a different kind of preparation. I'm not sure if it's mental prep, or motivational prep, or what. But it's what I do before I write a new novel.

The first thing I do is buy a notebook. Yes, a plain white notebook. 1 inch binder with the three rings so I can add paper. Preferably colored paper. Colored paper and pens are so much fun to use when writing your notes. Right? Oh, and there needs to be a plastic sleeve on the front so you can insert a photo--you know, of your characters or whatever has inspired you to write this novel.

Here's the front of my notebook for my current wip--I've inserted the photo that inspired my story along with a picture of my heroine, Ann.

And here's the colored paper--Love me some color while working.

Here's what I see while I'm working. My inspirational gifts people have given me and a photo of my hero-Brett and heroine--Ann. And really, what other career lets a girl hang up pictures of amazing looking guys on their walls and hubby just knows it 'part of the job?'

So you can see I've done a lot of preparing. It's all visual preparation. That's what gets me motivated and inspired.

Meet my crazy bulletin board. The white paper has the words to Crowder's Trying To Make You Sing--Inspiration for my 2012 release Summer Song. The photo of the blond girl and guy came out of a catalogue. I love their attitude!

There's other things on there as well. Writing awards, writings of others, a photo of the cover of my 2011 release, Her Best Catch, and Britney--of course!

Oh--look!! My heroine-Jenny and hero-Steven from my next novel. No, they don't have their own notebook yet, but they will. When I type the end of my current wip--edit it and send it on to my cp's, then Jenny and Steven will have their own place to call home.

So you see how I prepare to write my novels. How about you? How do you prepare?

Lindi P. Happy Endings are Just The Beginning Check out Encourage The Journey

Winner! The Night Sky by Maria Sutton

2011-11-13T23:30:00.000-05:00

Congratulations, Squiresj! You are the winner of The Night Sky: A Memoir by Maria Sutton!

Sunday Something

2011-11-13T00:01:00.000-05:00

i tried up upload my Crowder video but blogger was being a bear and wouldn't do it. So, here are some Crowder pics.
Enjoy--and just run a song through your head like he is singing it!

Here we are with our friends before the show started.

Author Spotlight ~ Maria Sutton

2011-11-11T00:00:00.000-05:00

Christy here. Happy Friday, all. I'm excited to welcome debut author Maria Sutton to FAITH today! I love to read stories of a new author's journey to publication.

Give Maria a warm welcome and please leave a comment. We'll be drawing the winner of her book A Night Sky: A Journey from Dachau to Denver and Back. This book has received some fabulous reviews on Amazon and Goodreads. I'm thrilled to offer an opportunity for you to win a copy today. Thank you Maria!!!

About the Author:

Maria was born in the barracks of Germany’s former Wehrmacht commandcenter, which had been converted to house Europe’s Displaced Persons afterWWII.

In 1951, Maria, along with her Mother, Step-father, and sister immigratedto America and she has lived in the greater Denver metro area since thattime.

Her book, The Night Sky: A Journey from Dachau to Denver and Back is the culmination of her 43-year search for her biological father,who disappeared shortly after her birth in war-torn Germany. Without knowing the spelling or his name, norhis date and place of birth, Maria was able to find him – proving that withunwavering determination, anything is possible.

Maria graduated from the University of Colorado with a Bachelor ofScience in Finance and Accounting and has also attended the John F. KennedySchool of Government at Harvard University. She has been employed by the U. S. government in several capacitiesthroughout her Federal career, receiving many awards for her writing andinvestigative skills.

The above title is available from Johnson Books, an imprint of BigEarth Publishing. Her memoir will betranslated into several languages, including German, Polish, and Ukrainian.

Maria and her family reside in Golden, Colorado.

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Maria, how long have you beenwriting? Is The Night Sky your first book?

In a way, you could say I’ve been writing since the time Ifirst learned how to write, probably about the 2^nd or 3^rdgrade. One of my earliest memories of school is whenever a teacherannounced we would have an essay test, I could hear moans and groans from theother students, but I was delighted because I knew I would do well. Incollege, I wanted to major in English or Journalism, but one of my profs toldme I was already making more money than most writers and journalists, so Iswitched to Accounting because I knew I could always making a living as anaccountant. Writing helped me break through the glass ceiling forwomen. I began writing the monthly newsletter for my agency, and that ledto writing speeches for high-level federal government officials, pressreleases, etc. I attribute my writing skills to my promotion intomanagement.

The Night Sky is my first book and I wrote it because myfriends and family told me it was an important story that should be told. It could inspire other people to “Seek and Ye Shall Find.” The Psalmapplies to more than just finding people—it’s also important to findingwhatever it is you are searching for: A good marriage, career, education,and happiness, to name a few.

Do you have an agent?Can you share your journey to publication?

I was under contract with three prominent agents. Thefirst one I didn’t feel comfortable with after a telephone conversation; thesecond one bailed when the publisher bailed; and then I was under contract withthe last one for about 18 months before I decided it was taking too long. One of the things I’ve learned about agents is that they have a few publishersthat they work with, and, if those publishers don’t work out, they put yourbook on the back burner. My last agent informed me the big publishinghouses (Simon Schuster, Harper Collins) aren’t accepting memoirs unless theyare by a celebrity. The publishing industry is in turmoil and publishersdon’t want to take a chance on first-time authors. I wanted my book to bepublished while my Mother was still alive, and quickly found a regionalpublisher, Big Earth in Boulder, Colorado. They did a beautiful job onthe jacket design and layout. Unfortunately, my Mother passed away beforethe book was published, but I’m sure she’s smiling down on me because the bookis becoming successful. My Uncle Wasyl is still alive (age 90 now), andthe published book brought tears to his eyes.

What has been some ofthe best advice you’ve received during your publication journey? What’s some ofthe worst advice?

Without a doubt, the best advice I’ve received is toaggressively market the book. I spend about 2-3 hours every nightcontacting bloggers about my book, and this opportunity Christy gave me for aguest post is enormous! The worst advice I got was to put the book onAmazon Kindle and I would sell a million books automatically. Intuitively, I knew that wouldn’t happen, and after my friends and relatives(who had Kindles) bought the book, I made #8 in Kindle sales, but then salesstarted decreasing, so I knew I had to do something. I researched “how tomarket a book” and every website said key to selling books was throughbloggers. The big publishing houses have a huge internationaldistribution network, with thousands of sales staff that can “get the word out”on a book. With a small press, the author has to be a one-person salesforce.

What’s a fun quality orquirk you have that no one may know about?

I love this question. I guess a quirky thing about meis that I have an eye for symmetry and organization. I can tell, just byscanning a room, if something is out of place—and I automatically rearrangestuff until everything is symmetrical. Organization is my other quirk –as a writer, it’s easy to have stacks of paper and books all over the place. Not me! Every piece of paper is alphabetized in binders with tabs. Even the vegetables in my freezer, and the canned goods in my cupboard arealphabetized and in order. (Now I’m sounding like an eccentric.)

About the Book:

This extraordinary andunflinchingly honest memoir takes us on a riveting journey into the hearts andsouls of three enigmatic people whose destinies are forever changed by theevents of World War II. The secrets ofmisguided love and passions are revealed as the author journeys between thepast and the present to solve the mystery of a handsome Polish officer with piercingblue eyes and sun-colored hair. MariaSutton takes us to the dark green hills and valleys of the ancient CarpathianMountains in Ukraine, where the woody fragrance of birch trees and new-mown hayfills the fresh, crisp air after a heavy rain. Vicariously, we see a sunrise over Poland obscured by brightly coloredswastikas on warplanes and then we will be taken into suffocating cattle cars,lice-infested stalags, and to the Dachau death camp. Further down a country road, the heartylaughter and beer steins clinking with each salute to the Fuhrer’s astonishingvictories can be heard.

As Maria takes us onthis odyssey to solve a decades-long mystery, she learns the family secrets ofuntold heroism, quiet courage, and a mother’s love – and of tragedy,disillusionment and heartbreak. At theend of her long journey, Maria uncovers a shattering and painful truth. But the secret, however heartbreaking, wouldalso become the greatest gift she would receive.

Ultimately, the questto uncover a painful truth becomes an inspiring and absorbing journey of theheart.

Feel free to leave Maria a comment, ask questions. She'll be popping in as soon as she can today. We'll announce the winner on Sunday, November 13th!

Fall Decorating

2011-11-10T03:00:00.000-05:00

Missy, here. I know some of you (Mindy jumps first to my mind) are big on decorating. I'm not much of a decorator. Everything around our house is functional and lived in. But I enjoy doing a bit outside. Like pumpkins on the porch And flowers in my flower pots. I like to do mums or pansies, although I still haven't planted anything for fall.

This year, I grabbed up a beautiful wreath at Michael's when I saw them half price. I just love it! It has sunflowers and pine cones and berries. And gorgeous orange ribbon. I thought I'd share it with you.

Are you a decorator? Do you go all out for fall or Thanksgiving? (We can talk Christmas later.) :)

Freelancing Fun

2011-11-09T00:28:00.001-05:00

Angie here: Often I hear people say they don't know how to move toward their goals.After thinking about my goals of writing, I started responding "writers write" because gaining experience whether volunteering or in paid work within the field of your goal enriches and speeds you to reach that dream.

What if you named your goal and then acted on it in a general way to enrich, educate, and grow in the industry of your chosen dream?

Let me explain what "writers write" means to me. My goal is to be a full time writer the rest of my life. I also want to speak. In order to reach those goals, I need constant practice and experience honing my skills. So I choose to practice by writing and speaking on a regular basis. I'll be speaking this weekend at a writers workshop. I've spoken several times a month most of this year. But here's some other things I do to stay working on my writing goals daily.

Banana Pear Bread Recipe.jpg

The photo goes with a recipe I created and published in the Christian Fiction Online Magazine. It's in Angie's Place, a freelance feature column I write every month. Writing the column helps me meet my goals by practicing my craft as well as continual creativity in non-fiction. I hope to share attitude, lifestyle, and spiritual wisdom.

Blogging is also freelancing fun. We have the opportunity to express our feelings, thoughts, and opinions. Great practice and educational dealing with design and content.

Another place I have some freelancing fun is at www.InspireAFire.com because it helps me write in a missional style that supports my belief system. I hope to help others grow spiritually through these articles.

Recently I started writing and selling greeting card verses to Warner Press. This is a completely different style from anything else I do. I've learned to work hard at tuning into the nuances of the buyers. This is very different from the devotionals I've written for Guidepost or The Quiet Hour.

Then of course I write cookbooks, fiction, and non-fiction books too. When I look at the various ways I write, none stand out as more important than the other because each one allows me continual growth, experience, and a voice to bless others. The more I write, the better I get at my craft just like the more a musician practices or a weight builder pumps iron cements their skills.

I also join challenges like Nanowrimo and Book-in-a-Week races. With set goals over short periods of time, emotions and drive kick into gear and productivity becomes exponential.I feel confident that my writing is enriched by the well-rounded experience. It helps me to create fictional characters in fictional worlds when I research in other areas of my writing. I've actually used research from various freelance projects in my fiction AND in my devotionals.

I fully believe that writers write and freelancing is fun.

What goal do you have?

How can you daily grow in education and experience by working in the general arena of your goal?

Monster Dolls? Really?

2011-11-08T09:37:00.002-05:00

Mindy here. So Sunday I was perusing the plethora of sale circulars in the newspaper--including the toy ads, looking for gift idea for the grandkids--when I came across a series of Barbie-type dolls called Monster High. All girls, there was a Frankenstein (Frankie), a werewolf (Clawdeen), and a vampire (Draculaura).

Seriously? I wonder if this is because of the popularity of Twilight. Whatever the case, I just find this a bit disturbing. Whatever happened to little girls playing with baby dolls? Learning how to nurture and love. And despite what some people say about Barbie's figure, she's a go-getter. She been a teacher, an astronaut, a chef (I saw a cooking show Barbie the other day), a beauty queen, a mom, a big sister.... But monster dolls?

Okay, what do y'all think about this? Have you seen them?

I'm eager to hear your thoughts.

Happy Tuesday, y'all.

David Crowder and Making It Happen--Part 2

2011-11-07T00:01:00.002-05:00

Lindi here.

Crowder Concert: One word: Amazing!
As always the David Crowder Band praised the Lord with awesomeness. We ran into some people at church today who were there and one of them said to us "Hi. We worshiped together last night."
And that's what it was. Worshiping the King of Kings!
We were down front, no seats, standing right in front of the stage. I have a new computer and don't have my camera software loaded yet--but I did get some cool pictures!
And the meet and greet? We got to meet the members of the band and they were signing whatever you had for them to sign.
This is where I messed up. Well, not messed up really, but I didn't listen to that little nudge yesterday afternoon that told me to pull something off my bulletin board and take it with me. That something is the 8 1/2 x 11 sheet of paper with the words to the Crowder song Trying to Make You Sing. It's been on my bulletin board for a long time. The words to that song inspired the book that is coming out next fall.
When the little nudge told me to bring it with me I thought no way--what am I going to pull it out and show it to DC? Not! But it would have been very cool for the band to have signed it.
Instead I gave them my ticket.
Next time I'll listen to God, the nudge, no matter how crazy it seems!!

Making it Happen---well, I didn't make it totally happen. I didn't get the word count I aspired to, but I did write every day. Yes, you read that right. Every day. That's something that has been lacking lately. So, I'm a little off on the word count, but still rolling along.

Don't forget about Christy's Writing Challenge.

How about you? Have you ever felt the nudge to do something then didn't do it?

Lindi P. Happy Endings Are Just The Beginning

Sunday Something

2011-11-06T08:01:00.003-05:00

We all got an extra hour of sleep!

Did you enjoy? Wake up at the normal time? Or it doesn't affect you at all?

Fun Friday & Winner ~ Lakeside Reunion

2011-11-04T06:53:00.000-04:00

photo courtesy of http://www.cute-wallpaper.com/preview.asp?id=2059

Congratulations to KarenK, you are the winner of Lisa Jordan's Debut Novel, Lakeside Reunion!

And Nano is about to wrap up its first week in a couple of days...

Angie and I are working hard to reach our word count... If you are doing NaNoWriMo, please see some of the recipes the FAITH girls posted this week to get you through and not distract from writing time.

If you're like me and have a full time job, oh well. Can't help you there. We've all gotta work. I suppose there will be more early mornings and more late nights all around. Feel free to visit me on my blog and we'll help each other stay on track with our writing!

Happy Friday, y'all!

Another Quick Meal!

2011-11-03T03:00:00.000-04:00

Missy, here. Since Angie mentioned quick meals for any of you who are taking part in National Novel Writing Month, I thought I'd share one of my favorite lunches, a turkey wrap. I eat it several times a week! It's colorful and very healthy.

I shared the recipe and photos on another of my blogs, The Yankee-Belle Cafe. So I'll give you a link to hop over there for the recipe. I hope you enjoy it! (Click here to see the recipe.)

What's your favorite quick meal for a day when you're busy?

Nanowrimo Meal Planning (or) Fast Meals for Busy People

2011-11-02T10:40:00.000-04:00

Angie here with Fast meals for Busy People:

When we're in a rush to reach our goals, we need fast meals for busy people. But this month is special for writers all over the word who need Nanowrimo Meal Planning. Here's one quick meal (takes a total of 8 minutes). I'm also including a link to my ebook because it's FULL of fast meals for busy people.

Creative Cooking for Simple Elegance

Fast Meals for Busy People

Important note: You can get this in full color for $3.99 on my website or another version, Creative Cooking for Colitis. But on Kindle, Creative Cooking for Colitis is in black and white.

Here's a recipe that does more than one meal and all are super fast.

Spiced Roast Beef.jpg

TheBest SpicedRoast Beef Ever!

The easiest, mostfabulous roast you will ever, ever (did I say EVER?) eat! I learned it fromDiamond Bar Meats in Missoula, MT. I will be ever, ever (did I say EVER?)grateful!!

Spicecraft PrimeSteak & Beef Burger Seasoning

(This spice is madein Chicago.)

4-6 pound bonelessrib roast

In a baking dish, generously coatthe roast completely. I mean totally, completely coat it. Allow roast to setuntil all spice is saturated, about 15 minutes. Preheat oven to 325º. Bake uncoveredfor about 2 hours or until 160º with meat thermometer.

What? You thought there was more?

Insider Tip: Coatthe roast prior to freezing in a plastic freezer bag. As it thaws, the flavorsdeepen the final result.

Tip 2: Use left overs for French dip, Beef Orzo, or stroganoff. All recipesfound in Creative Cooking for Simple Elegance cookbook.

Other recipe ideas for left over roast could be red beans and rice, beef stew, or our favorite is to simply eat cold roast beef sandwiches.

To fill out a meal, I microwave baked potatoes and we top them with shredded cheese, non-fat Greek yogurt (because it tastes just like sour cream), and chives. Then I microwave fresh green beans.

All done!

Let the Traditions Begin

2011-11-01T10:31:00.001-04:00

Mindy here. Can you believe it's November already? I am so glad we've moved beyond the record-setting heat of this summer. Cooler days have finally arrived. I can throw open the windows and let the fresh air permeate the house.

For me, November signifies the start of the holiday season. No, I'm not putting Christmas decorations up yet, but I have started making lists--gift ideas, recipes, events....

My official first holiday tradition is baking pumpkin bread. I mean a BIG batch. One that will yield me a dozen or so small loaves. Why so many? I'll get to that in a bit, but first I'll share my most favorite pumpkin bread recipe.

Here's what you'll need:

2 1/4 cups (4 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter
1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon molasses
6 cups sugar
12 eggs
2 cups orange juice
6 cups pumpkin puree (I use 2-29 oz. cans of pumpkin, straight pumpkin, NOT pumpkin pie filling)
10 cups flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
2 tablespoons baking soda
1 1/2 tablespoons salt
1 tablespoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon ground cloves
3 cups raisins or currants

In a VERY large bowl, cream butter, molasses, and sugar until light and fluffy. (Note: this batch is too large for a Kitchen Aid mixer. I use a hand mixer) Beat in eggs, one at a time. Beat until light and lemon-colored. Add orange juice and pumpkin puree and mix well.

In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, soda, salt, and spices. Add to pumpkin mixture, stirring well with a wooden spoon (or whatever you might have, just lose the mixer at this point) to thoroughly combine all elements. Stir in raisins.

Spoon into buttered (I spray mine with Pam) loaf pans, whatever size you choose, and bake at 350 until toothpick inserted comes out clean. For large loaves this is about an hour. For smaller loaves, I usually start checking them after about 40 minutes and add time accordingly. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn onto racks to cool completely.

Once the loaves have cooled, I wrap them in plastic wrap, followed with a good layer of foil before I store them in the freezer. I don't know what it is about freezing them, but it makes them even more moist.

But why do I need so many? Gift giving. Hostess gift, teacher gift, you name it. I deliver loaves to neighbors and friends just before Thanksgiving. For a nice presentation, remove the foil only, and place plastic-wrapped loaf into a cellophane bag. Tie with raffia or a pretty ribbon and voila! And these stay fresh in the freezer for a good while, so you can even carry them over to Christmas time. Oh, but don't forget to save some for your own holiday table or even Thanksgiving or Christmas breakfast. It's great for teatime too.

What are of some of your holiday (Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years) traditions?

Happy Tuesday, y'all.

David Crowder and Making It Happen--Part 1

2011-10-31T00:01:00.001-04:00

Lindi here.

First a big HAPPY HALLOWEEN!! Don't scare too many people today!!

Looking at the title of this post are you thinking how many parts is this Crowder thing going to be?
Only 2.
Today and next Monday.
You see, next Saturday night DC will be at The Tabernacle in the ATL--and I will be there.

This picture--me, David Crowder and Mike Hogan was taken at a book signing. Yes, among everything else DC does, he's also an author.

Their book is titled Everybody Wants To Go To Heaven But Nobody Wants To Die.
Of course, I had to get the autograph!

Part 1 of this post is simply me telling you about this upcoming event. Not only is there a concert, but there is a Meet-N-Greet before the concert. And yes, I'll admit, I paid $ to attend. (not a lot of dollars, but dollars nonetheless!) I'll also admit I really don't know what the $ are going to get me. Face time with DC? A chat where I'll be a face in the crowd? That's where part 2 comes in handy.

Next week will be the tell-all regarding the pre-show M-N-G.

There's also another reason for this post--remember the title? The 'And Making It Happen' part? Well, that involves me working on my current ms.

Our ever encouraging Christy is still hosting her Writing Challenge. So this week I'm going to try and hit 35K on my manuscript--which will make me half-way to the finish. To get to said 35K I need to write approximately 920 words a day. What do you think? Can I do it?
Hop on over to Christy's challenge and take part in the encouragement!!

So you see, next week will be a total tell-all post. David Crowder and writing news. Does it get much better?

What are you looking forward to this week? If you want to, go on over to Christy's blog and join the challenge. Keep her/us accountable!

Lindi P.-Happy Endings Are Just The Beginning

Sunday Something-Contest Winner

2011-10-30T00:01:00.000-04:00

We have our winner for the beautiful ornament! Walt Mussell was our guest on Monday and his wife made this for our winner.

And our winner is Keena Kincaid!

Keena, please email me at lindipeterson at tds dot net.

Thanks to everyone who stopped by!