A friend on Shoutlife tagged me with this top ten game and I thought it'd be a great way to explain where I've been lately. Not only that, but to share some GREAT news. ;-)
10 things about me:
1. I just finished writing Enduring Justice (book 3 in the Defenders of Hope series)!!!! Can you hear me woo-hooing?! This is one of two pieces of good news to share...
2. My hubby presented me with some Godiva chocolate to celebrate finishing the DOH series.
3. My kiddos and I have been sick with one thing after another. Today I actually had to take a sick day. Haven't had one of those in years.
4. My family and I joined an amazing church in October last year and are loving the worship and community there. It's very cool to be active in growing relationships again.
5. I completed a Christmas scrapbook over the Christmas break. This has nothing to do with my lack of blogging, but I'm pretty proud of doing something with my scrapbooks. ;-)
6. My husband and I went out of town for a Valentine's Day marriage retreat, something we've never done before. It was WONDERFUL! The catching up from being offline....not so much.
7. I finished physical therapy for shoulder surgery and am doing better, but still having some issues with certain movements.
8. We're planning to redecorate the first floor of our home this summer and have been pouring over books and colors and enough options to make our heads swim.
9. We're going to DC next month and I'm SOOOO excited. Partly for research (the DOH series is set in DC) and partly because I love the city and it will be the first time taking our children there. Please pray I don't find some "duh" way to see the inside of the Hoover building. ;-)
10. And lastly, here's the other piece of good news.... I am holding copies of Healing Promises!!! Praise God for the birth of my second book baby! And it's just as cool an experience as the first time.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Wednesday, March 05, 2008
Truffles by the Sea
This week I have a super fun beach-lit book with a super yummy cover and an awesome story to share with you. And not only will I tell you about the story, but I also have a copy to give away!
So read on and leave me a note in the comments for your chance to win a book that combines a great escape with deep faith, good chocolate and loads of laughs.
Bethany House (February 1, 2008)
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Julie Carobini is an award-winning writer whose stories often spotlight her family, the sea, and God's timely work in the lives of those around her. She lives with her husband, Dan, and their three children in Ventura Beach, California.
She also likes to blog! Visit her at Waves of Grace~ a beautiful piece of the beach~ and learn more about a very special message for you and how you can enter to win a copy of Truffles by the Sea AND a 1/2 lb. box of yummy truffles. Can't miss a chance to win chocolate! :-)
ABOUT THE BOOK:
If you read, Julie's first book, Chocolate Beach, then you might remember
Gaby as Bri’s dramatic, lovesick best friend. Unfortunately, things get worse—much worse—for her before they get…well, best not to give it away.
Sometimes all a girl has left is chocolate...
Gaby Flores has a penchant for drama and an unfortunate knack for dating Mr. So Wrong. After breaking off yet another relationship, watching her apartment building burn to the ground, and discovering that her dippy delivery guy has run off with most of her business, Gaby decides it’s time to turn things around.
So she moves to a tiny waterfront loft and takes on a new motto: “Be gullible no more!” With help from her friends, she works to rebuild her flower shop—and her life. But when legal troubles and quirky neighbors and two surprising romances enter her beachy world, Gaby’s motto and fledgling faith are put to the test.
Can a young woman prone to disaster in both work and love finally find happily ever after?
So read on and leave me a note in the comments for your chance to win a book that combines a great escape with deep faith, good chocolate and loads of laughs.
This week, the
Bethany House (February 1, 2008)
Julie Carobini is an award-winning writer whose stories often spotlight her family, the sea, and God's timely work in the lives of those around her. She lives with her husband, Dan, and their three children in Ventura Beach, California.
She also likes to blog! Visit her at Waves of Grace~ a beautiful piece of the beach~ and learn more about a very special message for you and how you can enter to win a copy of Truffles by the Sea AND a 1/2 lb. box of yummy truffles. Can't miss a chance to win chocolate! :-)
ABOUT THE BOOK:
If you read, Julie's first book, Chocolate Beach, then you might remember
Gaby as Bri’s dramatic, lovesick best friend. Unfortunately, things get worse—much worse—for her before they get…well, best not to give it away.Sometimes all a girl has left is chocolate...
Gaby Flores has a penchant for drama and an unfortunate knack for dating Mr. So Wrong. After breaking off yet another relationship, watching her apartment building burn to the ground, and discovering that her dippy delivery guy has run off with most of her business, Gaby decides it’s time to turn things around.
So she moves to a tiny waterfront loft and takes on a new motto: “Be gullible no more!” With help from her friends, she works to rebuild her flower shop—and her life. But when legal troubles and quirky neighbors and two surprising romances enter her beachy world, Gaby’s motto and fledgling faith are put to the test.
Can a young woman prone to disaster in both work and love finally find happily ever after?
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Opened Eyes
It's been a long time since I've heart blogged and I'm feeling it. Sometimes it's because I have nothing worth saying. Most of the time, it's because God is still working in me and I don't have the words to explain.
But today God opened my eyes once again to a truth I've been struggling with for years. Today I have words express a little of what He's doing in me.
I can sum it up in a short statement: I've wasted a lot of life by living disrespectfully. From not calling my dad "Sir" when I knew that's what he wanted to being ugly in my attitude, tone of voice, and words to anyone and everyone who offended me.
It's doubtful most people who know me have seen any of this. I kept almost all of it inside. Buried it deep in my heart.
Until I got married. Then my husband got the full force of years of hurt. Some he created. A lot he didn't.
All of it disobedience to the Lord.
Deep inside, I knew my disrespectful attitude and actions were wrong. But I grew up believing love was supposed to be unconditional and respect had to be earned. I didn't know how to change those knee-jerk reactions.
Thankfully, God does.
It's taken years of sermons, books and talking with wise believers for me to willingly look up and ask God if respect was an issue I really needed schooling in.
I started doing that months ago.
And I do believe God laughed.
Not to be mean. But more along the lines of joy at knowing that I'm listening. And maybe a little humor at the enormous understatement of me thinking I "might" need to learn a bit about respect.
God has been faithful to open my eyes, break my pride and provide plenty of opportunities for me to exercise respect.
Let me just say very little of this path has been fun.
Then again, the benefits have been beyond compare. One of the best has been sensing God's smile as I react differently, especially to my family.
Another has been a far more peaceful and quiet heart. I'm spending less time thinking up sarcastic zingers and more time praying.
It's weird, but today I was working with one of the kids on a task that before has brought tears to both of us. And the words that flew out of my mouth this morning stunned me.
Then I smiled.
So did my little one.
Because the words weren't harsh, they were smiling and encouraging. And I had to laugh and look up again.
I know God smiled. Because the words were His. And my heart filled with awe at what He's doing and will continue to do.
It still amazes me what a difference a word spoken with kindness and respect can do. To the heart of the one speaking and to each of the hearers.
I pray my children are able to see the difference. I know their eyes are wide open to the lessons I'm teaching with every action and word. That used to frighten me. Now, I'm learning to keep my eyes open too. And fixed on the only perfect example.
The One who smiles when we look up. And who is ever willing to show us what we need to best reflect His love— the love He pours over us each and every day.
But today God opened my eyes once again to a truth I've been struggling with for years. Today I have words express a little of what He's doing in me.
I can sum it up in a short statement: I've wasted a lot of life by living disrespectfully. From not calling my dad "Sir" when I knew that's what he wanted to being ugly in my attitude, tone of voice, and words to anyone and everyone who offended me.
It's doubtful most people who know me have seen any of this. I kept almost all of it inside. Buried it deep in my heart.
Until I got married. Then my husband got the full force of years of hurt. Some he created. A lot he didn't.
All of it disobedience to the Lord.
Deep inside, I knew my disrespectful attitude and actions were wrong. But I grew up believing love was supposed to be unconditional and respect had to be earned. I didn't know how to change those knee-jerk reactions.
Thankfully, God does.
It's taken years of sermons, books and talking with wise believers for me to willingly look up and ask God if respect was an issue I really needed schooling in.
I started doing that months ago.
And I do believe God laughed.
Not to be mean. But more along the lines of joy at knowing that I'm listening. And maybe a little humor at the enormous understatement of me thinking I "might" need to learn a bit about respect.
God has been faithful to open my eyes, break my pride and provide plenty of opportunities for me to exercise respect.
Let me just say very little of this path has been fun.
Then again, the benefits have been beyond compare. One of the best has been sensing God's smile as I react differently, especially to my family.
Another has been a far more peaceful and quiet heart. I'm spending less time thinking up sarcastic zingers and more time praying.
It's weird, but today I was working with one of the kids on a task that before has brought tears to both of us. And the words that flew out of my mouth this morning stunned me.
Then I smiled.
So did my little one.
Because the words weren't harsh, they were smiling and encouraging. And I had to laugh and look up again.
I know God smiled. Because the words were His. And my heart filled with awe at what He's doing and will continue to do.
It still amazes me what a difference a word spoken with kindness and respect can do. To the heart of the one speaking and to each of the hearers.
I pray my children are able to see the difference. I know their eyes are wide open to the lessons I'm teaching with every action and word. That used to frighten me. Now, I'm learning to keep my eyes open too. And fixed on the only perfect example.
The One who smiles when we look up. And who is ever willing to show us what we need to best reflect His love— the love He pours over us each and every day.
Monday, February 25, 2008
What's in a line?
I've been tagged by Trish Perry about the book I'm currently reading. Like many folks, I'm reading a couple books right now. But I'll use the one that's making me laugh out loud...The "tag" says to turn to page 123 of the book, go to the fifth sentence and post the next three! Then tag five more people.
"I think about this. In the last few days, two men have offered me keys to their homes, and more importantly, access to their plasma widescreens. My pandering to their sense of chivalry has, apparently, worked flawlessly."
These lines are from Truffles by the Sea by Julie Carobini. Beach lit fun at its best!
As for tagging, if you'd like to play along...come join the fun and leave a comment. This is a great way to check out some potential reads!
Monday, February 18, 2008
Symphony of Secrets
For fans of great fiction, I have a book to personally recommend with the highest amount of stars possible!Symphony of Secrets is an amazing novel by my all-time favorite author, Sharon Hinck! This is a story full of beautiful music, a touch of mystery and romance all tied together in an engaging story about a concert flutist mom and her cheerleader daughter. This is a story about dreams come true, and what happens when the truth behind the fantasy is revealed.
Beyond the incredible insider's glimpse at the beauty of music, the heart of this story is God's never ending, always loving pursuit of us~ even when we refuse to listen.
So pour yourself a cup of hot tea, sit back and relax. This story will awaken your senses, touch your heart and leave you clapping for an encore.
Book Description:
Talented flutist Amy Johnson's dreams come true when she wins a spot with the Minneapolis Symphony. But this amateur sleuth has trouble concentrating on the notes as she begins to see devious motives behind her fellow musicians' many mishaps.
Meanwhile, her musically talented daughter wants to give it all up for (gasp) the cheerleading squad! What's a musical mom to do?
Can Amy fine-tune her investigation before the symphony is forced to close and she loses not only her dream job but her promising new relationship with the conductor?
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Heart Chocolate anyone?
Happy Valentine's Day!!!On this most special and chocolaty day, there's a new HEART CHOCOLATE place on the web just for you! Please come check it out and let me know what you think.
Personally, I believe my awesome webmaster hubby did an AMAZING job! :-)
In addition to the new fun and interactive site, we've added the first chapter of Healing Promises for your reading pleasure. It's in a very cool book reader format that I hope you'll enjoy.
One last treat to share... there's still time to sign up for our once-a-year, extra yummy giveaway just for Dark Chocolate Suspense newsletter subscribers. All you need to do is visit HEART CHOCOLATE and click on the POS/ computer screen or the hidden mug for the newsletter sign-up. We'll announce the winner February 29th. Here's what someone will win....
A Healing Promises gift pack including a Healing Promises mug, a Starbucks giftcard, a box of Godiva Chocolates and a signed copy of Healing Promises, book 2 in the Defenders of Hope series.
In addition to savoring some chocolate fun online, I hope you'll spend this day enjoying laughter, love, and lots of great chocolate! :-)
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
A few big firsts for me!
Since I've mentioned my very first TV interview a few times (not super excited about it or anything LOL), I thought I'd go ahead and share it with you.
Oh, and one more fun new first.... I'm now a monthly columnist for Writer...Interrupted. My first post goes live tomorrow. Talk about a great day to debut! My post is all about what speaks love to a writer and has a special message for those who are juggling parenthood and writing.
Enjoy!
Oh, and one more fun new first.... I'm now a monthly columnist for Writer...Interrupted. My first post goes live tomorrow. Talk about a great day to debut! My post is all about what speaks love to a writer and has a special message for those who are juggling parenthood and writing.
Enjoy!
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
My Most Memorable Valentine's Day Memory
Valentine's Day. You either love it or hate it!
As a kick-starter for ideas, here's a Title Trakk article where 14 popular Christian authors share with you their most memorable memories of this special day.
http://www.titletrakk.com/valentines_memories_authors.html
Enjoy!
And Happy (early) Valentine's Day!
As a kick-starter for ideas, here's a Title Trakk article where 14 popular Christian authors share with you their most memorable memories of this special day.
http://www.titletrakk.com/valentines_memories_authors.html
Enjoy!
And Happy (early) Valentine's Day!
Monday, February 11, 2008
Heart Music
Music touches my heart in a way that few other things can. That's why I listen to it every morning as I get ready. And I often write songs into my books because that's one big way God speaks past my mind and straight into my soul.
This morning three songs opened my eyes and set me to worshiping before I was even fully awake. I love days like that!
Here are some of the lines that grabbed my attention...
Somewhere in the Middle by Casting Crowns
Just how close can I get, Lord, to my surrender without losing all control
Fearless warriors in a picket fence
Reckless abandon wrapped in common sense
Deep water faith in the shallow end and we are caught in the middle
With eyes wide open to the differences, the God we want and the God who is
But will we trade our dreams for His
Or are we caught in the middle
Lord, I feel You in this place and I know You're by my side
Loving me even on these nights when I'm caught in the middle
What hit the hardest for me was the reality that way too often I'm willing to surrender, but only as long as I don't lose all control. Which is, in reality, not surrender. Then the lines about how God loves us even when we're caught in the middle stole my breath.
God loves us no matter what.
Thank You, Lord, that after twenty-two years, I haven't grown used to that six-word reality. Your mercies are new each morning and Your love is always ours.
Every Man by Casting Crowns
My life is scarred and my dreams unraveled
Now I'm scared to take the leap
If I could find someone to follow who knows my pain and feels the weight
The uncertainty of my tomorrow, the guilt and pain of yesterday
There is hope for every man
A solid place where we can stand
In this dry and weary land
There is hope for every man
There is Love that never dies
There is peace in troubled times
Will we help them understand?
There is hope for every man
I've lived a lot of my life with unraveled dreams, being scared to take the leap again. And I'm not alone. But God is an amazing heart healer and dream redeemer!
This song reminded me today that as long as we have breath, we have hope for tomorrow and today. Hope that never fails because its foundation is Jesus.
I Am by Nichole Nordeman
You saw my mistakes
And watched my heart break
Heard when I swore I'd never love again
And when I was weak, unable to speak
Still I could call You by name
And I said, Heartache Healer, Secret Keeper
Be my best friend
And You said, I Am
This song has long been a favorite. If you have a minute, here's a more detailed look at how deep this song is rooted in my heart: Stones of Remembrance
My favorite name for God is "I AM." Always in the present, always everything I need. That's a truth I can't wrap my mind around, but God has wrapped around me.
There are many ways God speaks to us. The top three ways I hear Him best are: the sound of water, music, and my children’s prayers.
What about you all? In this month many focus on love, what are the ways God speaks His love over you?
This morning three songs opened my eyes and set me to worshiping before I was even fully awake. I love days like that!
Here are some of the lines that grabbed my attention...
Somewhere in the Middle by Casting Crowns
Just how close can I get, Lord, to my surrender without losing all control
Fearless warriors in a picket fence
Reckless abandon wrapped in common sense
Deep water faith in the shallow end and we are caught in the middle
With eyes wide open to the differences, the God we want and the God who is
But will we trade our dreams for His
Or are we caught in the middle
Lord, I feel You in this place and I know You're by my side
Loving me even on these nights when I'm caught in the middle
What hit the hardest for me was the reality that way too often I'm willing to surrender, but only as long as I don't lose all control. Which is, in reality, not surrender. Then the lines about how God loves us even when we're caught in the middle stole my breath.
God loves us no matter what.
Thank You, Lord, that after twenty-two years, I haven't grown used to that six-word reality. Your mercies are new each morning and Your love is always ours.
Every Man by Casting Crowns
My life is scarred and my dreams unraveled
Now I'm scared to take the leap
If I could find someone to follow who knows my pain and feels the weight
The uncertainty of my tomorrow, the guilt and pain of yesterday
There is hope for every man
A solid place where we can stand
In this dry and weary land
There is hope for every man
There is Love that never dies
There is peace in troubled times
Will we help them understand?
There is hope for every man
I've lived a lot of my life with unraveled dreams, being scared to take the leap again. And I'm not alone. But God is an amazing heart healer and dream redeemer!
This song reminded me today that as long as we have breath, we have hope for tomorrow and today. Hope that never fails because its foundation is Jesus.
I Am by Nichole Nordeman
You saw my mistakes
And watched my heart break
Heard when I swore I'd never love again
And when I was weak, unable to speak
Still I could call You by name
And I said, Heartache Healer, Secret Keeper
Be my best friend
And You said, I Am
This song has long been a favorite. If you have a minute, here's a more detailed look at how deep this song is rooted in my heart: Stones of Remembrance
My favorite name for God is "I AM." Always in the present, always everything I need. That's a truth I can't wrap my mind around, but God has wrapped around me.
There are many ways God speaks to us. The top three ways I hear Him best are: the sound of water, music, and my children’s prayers.
What about you all? In this month many focus on love, what are the ways God speaks His love over you?
Thursday, February 07, 2008
An early Valentine's thought
This morning, God stopped me from my usual bleary-eyed preparations and highlighted a few thoughts in Psalm 95.
I typically read through the Psalms when life hurts and for the last half of 2007, that's where I camped out. The passion and devotion expressed in this book helped me through January too.
But today I was awakened again to the reality that I have so very much to be thankful for and a God who loves me more than I can even comprehend.
So move over Hallmark... God just sent the perfect early Valentine greeting.
Here are the snippets from Psalm 95 I wrote in my journal this morning...
Come, let us sing for joy to the LORD; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song. For the LORD is the great God... Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the LORD our Maker; for he is our God and we are the flock under his care.
Realizing how little I've taken time to physically and emotionally kneel before God, I started with confession and continued on into tearful words of thanks and amazement at how awesome God's gifts are in my life.
But even more how awesome and incredible and breathtaking He is.
This God who loves us when we praise Him, and when we forget to open our Bible. When we sing for joy or weep without words. He receives us, no matter what.
Here are some things I sniffled and smiled to God about...
My husband~ we've begun to enjoy the fruits from all the heart work God has been doing in our lives recently, and it's been incredible. Not only that, but my hubby is an AMAZING web genius who's working hard to make the super fun ideas we created as a family for my new website into reality.
My daughters~ homeschool and life aren't always rose-colored, but my kiddos remind me daily that forgiveness is a word away and love is never in short supply here.
My church~ even with all the loss and sorrow we've experienced already this year, our church is the home we've longed for and the community we'd hoped existed. Now we know and love belonging in such a God-present place.
My friends~ both the writers and "normals" (non-writers) who love me are gifts so precious they brought tears to my eyes this morning. Recalling heart chocolate emails and phone calls, visits and cards, I can't but praise the Lord for getting to share this journey with such wonderful people.
Writing~ there was a time I wrote out of sheer obedience and it felt like shedding blood to do this work. But recently God has renewed a passion in me and I'm experiencing once again His smile as I write, dream, and look ahead at "what's next" and what is right now.
Knowing that God is the Author and Word made flesh sent me down another path of praise too. How good God is all the time. And all the time, He is good.
Whether weeping without words or in a season or praise, I hope you'll ponder today how near God is and how much He loves you...
He calls you by name.
He holds you in the palm of His hand.
He addresses you as His beloved child.
He loves you with an everlasting love that nothing on this earth can alter.
He smiles with every thought of you~ thoughts that outnumber the sand on the shore.
He adores you on Valentine's Day and every other day of the year, and (as we like to say in the Wallace home) TO INFINITY AND BEYOND! ;-)
I pray you'll enjoy a little knee-time today as you look up and see God smiling right beside you or weeping with you. He is there. Always.
I typically read through the Psalms when life hurts and for the last half of 2007, that's where I camped out. The passion and devotion expressed in this book helped me through January too.
But today I was awakened again to the reality that I have so very much to be thankful for and a God who loves me more than I can even comprehend.
So move over Hallmark... God just sent the perfect early Valentine greeting.
Here are the snippets from Psalm 95 I wrote in my journal this morning...
Come, let us sing for joy to the LORD; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song. For the LORD is the great God... Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the LORD our Maker; for he is our God and we are the flock under his care.
Realizing how little I've taken time to physically and emotionally kneel before God, I started with confession and continued on into tearful words of thanks and amazement at how awesome God's gifts are in my life.
But even more how awesome and incredible and breathtaking He is.
This God who loves us when we praise Him, and when we forget to open our Bible. When we sing for joy or weep without words. He receives us, no matter what.
Here are some things I sniffled and smiled to God about...
My husband~ we've begun to enjoy the fruits from all the heart work God has been doing in our lives recently, and it's been incredible. Not only that, but my hubby is an AMAZING web genius who's working hard to make the super fun ideas we created as a family for my new website into reality.
My daughters~ homeschool and life aren't always rose-colored, but my kiddos remind me daily that forgiveness is a word away and love is never in short supply here.
My church~ even with all the loss and sorrow we've experienced already this year, our church is the home we've longed for and the community we'd hoped existed. Now we know and love belonging in such a God-present place.
My friends~ both the writers and "normals" (non-writers) who love me are gifts so precious they brought tears to my eyes this morning. Recalling heart chocolate emails and phone calls, visits and cards, I can't but praise the Lord for getting to share this journey with such wonderful people.
Writing~ there was a time I wrote out of sheer obedience and it felt like shedding blood to do this work. But recently God has renewed a passion in me and I'm experiencing once again His smile as I write, dream, and look ahead at "what's next" and what is right now.
Knowing that God is the Author and Word made flesh sent me down another path of praise too. How good God is all the time. And all the time, He is good.
Whether weeping without words or in a season or praise, I hope you'll ponder today how near God is and how much He loves you...
He calls you by name.
He holds you in the palm of His hand.
He addresses you as His beloved child.
He loves you with an everlasting love that nothing on this earth can alter.
He smiles with every thought of you~ thoughts that outnumber the sand on the shore.
He adores you on Valentine's Day and every other day of the year, and (as we like to say in the Wallace home) TO INFINITY AND BEYOND! ;-)
I pray you'll enjoy a little knee-time today as you look up and see God smiling right beside you or weeping with you. He is there. Always.
Tuesday, February 05, 2008
A Time to Weep
January was a difficult month. There were many deaths in my church and homeschool group as well as the anniversary of my Gram's death.
Grief is such a strange thing.
My Gram died in 1999, but there are still days I've gone to the phone and started dialing her number to retell some exciting kid-related event or book news.
My pastor shared the following story in our church newsletter. I pray it encourages you like it has my family as we walk through a time of weeping with those who weep.
The New Doll
A little girl had gone to play with a neighbor who had a new porcelain doll. The girl was late coming home, and her mother was quite disturbed when her daughter finally arrived.
She asked her daughter why she was so late. The little girl replied that her friend had dropped her new doll on the sidewalk.
The mother said, "Oh, so you were helping her pick up the pieces?"
"No, Mom," the little girl replied. "I was helping her cry."
Grief is such a strange thing.
My Gram died in 1999, but there are still days I've gone to the phone and started dialing her number to retell some exciting kid-related event or book news.
My pastor shared the following story in our church newsletter. I pray it encourages you like it has my family as we walk through a time of weeping with those who weep.
The New Doll
A little girl had gone to play with a neighbor who had a new porcelain doll. The girl was late coming home, and her mother was quite disturbed when her daughter finally arrived.
She asked her daughter why she was so late. The little girl replied that her friend had dropped her new doll on the sidewalk.
The mother said, "Oh, so you were helping her pick up the pieces?"
"No, Mom," the little girl replied. "I was helping her cry."
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Sprechen Sie Deutsch? Or maybe Dutch?
Just wanted to share a very exciting thing that appeared on my doorstep yesterday.If you'll take a look at the cover on the right, you might notice that it's the cover for Ransomed Dreams. But this isn't a misprinted copy.
It's in Dutch!
My family and I thought it was German the first time we read the cover, but a nifty certificate accompanying these cool new books says that Gospel Literature International and Multnomah present this new edition of Ransomed Dreams in Dutch.
I'm so excited and honored that Ransomed Dreams is now reaching another language!
And I was able to share this fun news and enjoy my very first TV interview on Family Net's Mornings show today! Thanks so much for your prayers!!! God was there and I had a blast.
If you check out this Family Net link in the upcoming week, you should be able to see the audio and video of the interview.
Not only did I have a great time, but my awesome hubby put in a special guest appearance. It was super wonderful to share this exciting time with him.
When you check out the video, would you let me know what you think? Being my first time on TV, I'm sure some of you great folks have a few pointers and tips for how to improve. I'd really appreciate them!
Thank you again for your prayers!
Abundant grace and lots of heart chocolate joy from me to you!
Hot Chocolate
Here's a story I hope will warm you inside out and all the way from your toes to your heart...
Hot Chocolate
A group of graduates, well established in their careers, were talking at a reunion and decided to go visit their old university professor, now retired. During their visit, the conversation turned to complaints about stress in their work and lives.
Offering his guests some refreshment, the professor went into the kitchen and returned with a large pot of hot chocolate and an assortment of cups - porcelain, glass, crystal, some plain looking, some expensive, some exquisite - telling them to help themselves to the hot chocolate.
When they all had a cup of hot chocolate in hand, the professor said, "Notice that all the nice looking, expensive cups were taken, leaving behind the plain and cheap ones. While it is normal for you to want only the best for yourselves, that is the source of your problems and stress.
"The cup that you're drinking from adds nothing to the quality of the hot chocolate.
"In most cases it is just more expensive and in some cases even hides what we drink. What all of you really wanted was hot chocolate, not the cup; but you consciously went for the best cups. And then you began eyeing each other's cups.
"Now consider this: Life is the hot chocolate. Your job, money and position in society are the cups. They are just tools to hold and contain life. The cup you have does not define the quality of life you have. But sometimes, by concentrating only on the cup, we fail to enjoy the hot chocolate God has provided us.
"God makes the hot chocolate, man chooses the cups. The happiest people don't have the best of everything. They just make the best of everything that they have."
Live simply. Love generously. Care deeply. Speak kindly.
And enjoy your hot chocolate.
Hot Chocolate
A group of graduates, well established in their careers, were talking at a reunion and decided to go visit their old university professor, now retired. During their visit, the conversation turned to complaints about stress in their work and lives.
Offering his guests some refreshment, the professor went into the kitchen and returned with a large pot of hot chocolate and an assortment of cups - porcelain, glass, crystal, some plain looking, some expensive, some exquisite - telling them to help themselves to the hot chocolate.
When they all had a cup of hot chocolate in hand, the professor said, "Notice that all the nice looking, expensive cups were taken, leaving behind the plain and cheap ones. While it is normal for you to want only the best for yourselves, that is the source of your problems and stress.
"The cup that you're drinking from adds nothing to the quality of the hot chocolate.
"In most cases it is just more expensive and in some cases even hides what we drink. What all of you really wanted was hot chocolate, not the cup; but you consciously went for the best cups. And then you began eyeing each other's cups.
"Now consider this: Life is the hot chocolate. Your job, money and position in society are the cups. They are just tools to hold and contain life. The cup you have does not define the quality of life you have. But sometimes, by concentrating only on the cup, we fail to enjoy the hot chocolate God has provided us.
"God makes the hot chocolate, man chooses the cups. The happiest people don't have the best of everything. They just make the best of everything that they have."
Live simply. Love generously. Care deeply. Speak kindly.
And enjoy your hot chocolate.
Monday, January 28, 2008
Reluctant Smuggler
Ready for another great read? Here's a recommendation especially for romantic suspense fans: Jill Elizabeth Nelson's third To Catch a Thief novel, Reluctant Smuggler.
If you've followed Desi and Tony's story of art , antiquities, and great FBI action like I have, then this book will capture your heart as well. Full of toe-curling romance and a fascinating FBI story, Reluctant Smuggler is sure to please.
Story summary:
Looting of archaeological sites is big business in a thriving art and antiquities black market. When a desperate foreign government hires Desiree Jacobs’s security company to stop the hemorrhage, she runs afoul of a deadly art-for-drugs operation. Tony Lucano risks his rising career in the FBI to dive into the international underworld after her. Before either of them can come up for air, they must navigate through a deepening murk of ruthless looters, hair-trigger DEA agents, crooked government agents, and innocent bystanders caught up in an illegal trade beyond their understanding. Even if a miracle delivers Desi and Tony from evil, will their love survive the test?
Complete with a reader’s guide, this third book in the To Catch a Thief series explores the power of hope in the darkest of circumstances.
Author Bio:
Jill Elizabeth Nelson graduated with a degree in literature and creative writing from Southwest State University in Marshall, Minnesota. She served for three years as the senior inspirational reviewer for Romantic Times BOOKclub magazine and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Christian Writers Group, and Christian Authors Network. In 2004, she served as a Christy Award judge in the romance category. Nelson and her husband have four children and live in Madison, Minnesota.
If you've followed Desi and Tony's story of art , antiquities, and great FBI action like I have, then this book will capture your heart as well. Full of toe-curling romance and a fascinating FBI story, Reluctant Smuggler is sure to please.
Story summary:
Looting of archaeological sites is big business in a thriving art and antiquities black market. When a desperate foreign government hires Desiree Jacobs’s security company to stop the hemorrhage, she runs afoul of a deadly art-for-drugs operation. Tony Lucano risks his rising career in the FBI to dive into the international underworld after her. Before either of them can come up for air, they must navigate through a deepening murk of ruthless looters, hair-trigger DEA agents, crooked government agents, and innocent bystanders caught up in an illegal trade beyond their understanding. Even if a miracle delivers Desi and Tony from evil, will their love survive the test?
Complete with a reader’s guide, this third book in the To Catch a Thief series explores the power of hope in the darkest of circumstances.
Jill Elizabeth Nelson graduated with a degree in literature and creative writing from Southwest State University in Marshall, Minnesota. She served for three years as the senior inspirational reviewer for Romantic Times BOOKclub magazine and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Christian Writers Group, and Christian Authors Network. In 2004, she served as a Christy Award judge in the romance category. Nelson and her husband have four children and live in Madison, Minnesota.
Friday, January 25, 2008
Something new
I'm giving a shout out today to my incredibly talented hubby for an amazing website design, and sharing this very cool site for Family Net. This cable TV and radio network has a new look for their place on the web where you can find information about fun and informative live programming and classic family-values entertainment.Please check out the awesome Family Net website! And be sure to look for the station in your area~ especially this coming Wednesday at 8 AM! I'll be doing my first live TV interview for the Mornings show and I'm super excited. I'd love to know some friendly faces are watching!
Thursday, January 17, 2008
What kind of writer are you?
Just about everyone has a story in them. What type do you have inside?
| You Should Be a Film Writer |
 You don't just create compelling stories, you see them as clearly as a movie in your mind. You have a knack for details and dialogue. You can really make a character come to life. Chances are, you enjoy creating all types of stories. The joy is in the storytelling. And nothing would please you more than millions of people seeing your story on the big screen! |
Getting to know you
Well, it's the middle of January and I have little deep and philosophical to say, so I thought I'd share some quizzes that I enjoyed.
So jump into the fun and find out a little more about yourself. ;-)
Here's a very important quiz to take! ;-)
So jump into the fun and find out a little more about yourself. ;-)
| You Are a Banana Split |
 Fruity, flavorful, and diverse. Who can beat a true superstar? |
Here's a very important quiz to take! ;-)
| You are Milk Chocolate |
 A total dreamer, you spend most of your time with your head in the clouds. You often think of the future, and you are always working toward your ideal life. Also nostalgic, you rarely forget a meaningful moment... even those from long ago. |
Friday, January 11, 2008
Happily Even After
Mary is my awesome mentor who has taught me to bleed into my work all that God has done in my heart. She's also a mom I admire and a beloved friend. I'm excited to share with you a great book, the third in the Sassy Sistahood Series: Happily Even After.One thing I will say of Mary's characters, when they pray I'm in the presence of the Lord, feeling Him at work in my heart. Not only that, Mary's writing is beautiful, funny, and full of heart and soul.
Do your heart, mind, and spirit a favor and pick up a Marilynn Griffith novel today!
Happily Even After (#3 - Sassy Sistahood Series) by Marilynn Griffith
This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Happily Even After (#3 - Sassy Sistahood Series)
(Steeple Hill January 1, 2008)
by
Marilynn Griffith
This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Happily Even After (#3 - Sassy Sistahood Series)
(Steeple Hill January 1, 2008)
by
Marilynn Griffith
Marilynn Griffith is mom to a tribe, wife to a deacon and proof that God gives second chances. While best known for her colorful novels about friendship, family and faith, Marilynn is also a speaker and nonfiction writer.
Her nonfiction has been included in CHICKEN SOUP FOR THE CHRISTIAN WOMAN'S SOUL and several other devotionals and magazines. Currently, Marilynn is editor of the SISTAHFAITH:BELIEVING BEYOND SHAME anthology. She is also the founder of Faithchick.com, a blog for faith fiction readers.
Marilynn is the author of six novels dealing with issues such as teen pregnancy, AIDS, abstinence, stress relief, single parenting and marriage. Her recent fiction titles include TANGERINE and IF THE SHOE FITS.
Marilynn has served as Vice President and Publicity Officer of American Christian Fiction Writers. She speaks to youth, women and writers about believing beyond boundaries and daring to reach dreams.
Marilynn lives in Florida with her husband and seven children whom she taught at home for seven years. When not chasing toddlers, helping with homework or trying to find her husband a clean shirt, she can be found scribbling furiously on her next novel.
To book Marilynn for media interviews, speaking engagements, Serious Fun fiction parties or book club call-ins, please contact her thru her WEBSITE.
Superwoman doesn't live here!
I marry a gorgeous executive, have a baby, lose all the weight (most of it), and move to a fine house in the suburbs with a welcoming new church. Wait...did I say welcoming?
One teeny waaah! and new mothers and their crying babies are exiled to a separate room. At least there's some enlightening conversation. Like about my husband and issues I didn't even know about!
And then there's my aptly named mother-in-law, Queen Elizabeth, who can't stand me.
I'm about to lose my mind! So it's high time for a visit to the Sassy Sistahood for some much-needed advice about men, marriage and motherhood!
The Sassy Sistahood: They get by with a little help from their friends.
Thursday, January 10, 2008
What kind of coffee are you?
Since coffee and chocolate are the mainstays of a writer's life, I thought this was a pretty cool quiz...
Let me know what kind of coffee you are in the comments!
Let me know what kind of coffee you are in the comments!
| You Are a Cappuccino |
 You're fun, outgoing, and you love to try anything new. However, you tend to have strong opinions on what you like. You are a total girly girly at heart - and prefer your coffee with good conversation. You're the type that seems complex to outsiders, but in reality, you are easy to please |
Wednesday, January 09, 2008
Best of 2007?
There's been tons of lists for folk's favorites of 2007. I was thrilled to be among a few of those lists for favorite books.But today my awesome agent passed on a link I hope you all will check out. It's the ChristianMusicPlanet.com's link for their first CMP Fan Awards. It includes four BOOK categories -- FICTION author/book, and NON-FICTION author/book.
So if you have a favorite book of 2007 (It'd be super awesome if Ransomed Dreams comes to mind as you fill out your CMP Fan Award ballot.) stop by http://tinyurl.com/2sa9e4 and cast your vote.
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