Happy Birthday Honey!

While today's not my wedding anniversary, it is my awesome hubby's birthday! And I need your help to complete a special something that's happening over at the Life with Missy blog!

So please visit Missy Tippen's home on the web and put on your poetry hat for a chance to win a fun Healing Promises gift pack!

And as a special incentive...if anyone can tell me where the posted poem came from as well as where it appears in Healing Promises, I'll give away an extra gift pack.

So hop over to Missy's blog and join the fun!

And please leave my handsome hubby a special birthday note either here or at Missy's place. Thanks!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAVID!!!

I LOVE YOU TO INFINITY...AND BEYOND!

My Soul to Keep

If you're a fan of reading well into the night, My Soul to Keep is a story for you! But be sure to keep the lights on all throughout the house.

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

My Soul To Keep

(Multnomah Books - February 5, 2008)

by

Melanie Wells

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A native of the Texas panhandle and the child of musicians, Melanie Wells attended Southern Methodist University on a music scholarship (she's a fiddle player), and later completed graduate degrees in counseling psychology and Biblical studies at Our Lady of the Lake University and Dallas Theological Seminary.

She has taught at the graduate level at both OLLU and DTS, and has been in private practice as a counselor since 1992. She is the founder and director of LifeWorks counseling associates in Dallas, Texas, a collaborative community of creative therapists.

When the Day of Evil Comes is her first published work of fiction, and the first of a three-book series. The second work, The Soul Hunter was released in May, 2006. Melanie lives and writes in Dallas.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

As nasty as I knew Peter Terry to be, I never expected him to start kidnapping kids. Much less a sweet, funny little boy with nothing to protect him but a few knock-kneed women, two rabbits and a staple gun…

It’s psychology professor Dylan Foster’s favorite day of the academic year…graduation day. And her little friend Christine Zocci’s sixth birthday. But the joyful summer afternoon goes south when a little boy is snatched from a neighborhood park, setting off a chain of events that seem to lead nowhere.

The police are baffled, but Christine’s eerie connection with the kidnapped child sends Dylan on a chilling investigation of her own. Is the pasty, elusive stranger Peter Terry to blame? Exploding light bulbs, the deadly buzz of a Texas rattlesnake, and the vivid, disturbing dreams of a little girl are just pieces of a long trail of tantalizing clues leading Dylan in her dogged search for the truth.


“Like water rising to a boil, My soul To Keep’s suspense sneaks up on you…before you know it, you’re in the thick if a frightening drama…Superbly crafted.”
---ROBERT LIPARULO, author of Deadfall, Germ, and Comes A Horseman


“Written with passion, a good dose of humor and, dare I say it, soul, this novel reminds us that we all, with grace and good fortune, bumble our way toward salvation.”
---K. L. COOK, author of Late Call and The Girl From Charmelle

New books to introduce to you

Chapter-a-Week is a great way to meet new authors and visit with established favorites as you enjoy reading a chapter and chatting about the stories. Here are the novels highlighted this week...

A Bride So Fair

Book Three in A Fair to Remember

by Carol Cox

A young woman searching for independence and adventure.

A handsome Columbian Guard striving to protect and defend.

A little boy caught in a web of intrigue and deceit.

Emily Ralston is delighted when she lands a job at the Children's
Building at the Chicago World's Fair. And the White City seems to be
living up to its promise of excitement when she meets Stephen Bridger, a
handsome Columbian guardsman. Surely Emily isn't the only one to
sense the spark of electricity between them?

When Stephen finds a lost boy, he delivers him to the Children's
Building to be cared for until his mother is located. But when a dead
body believed to be little Adam's mother is found, a mystery begins
to unfold. While unraveling the truth, Emily and Stephen are drawn
deeper into danger and closer to each other.

"Carol Cox has skillfully woven a heart-tugging romance and
page-turning intrigue around a fascinating historical setting, bringing
all three to life." --Linda Windsor, author of Wedding Bell Blues
and For Pete's Sake

"This talented author's sweet and charming love story—set
during the Chicago World's Fair of 1893—is a delightful
diversion." --Romantic Times BOOKReviews

Death of a Six-Foot Teddy Bear

Book Two in the Bargain Hunters mysteries

By Sharon Dunn

"A quirky `who done it,' Death of a Six-Foot Teddy Bear is
the perfect mystery for women who love bargains and surprise
endings." --Melanie Dobson, author of Together for Good and Going for Broke

"If you enjoy whimsy, humor, and fun characters with your mystery,
Death of a Six-Foot Teddy Bear is for you! But beware! Under the
laughs are buried strong spiritual truths. A delightful, thoughtful
read." --Gayle Roper, award-winning author of Fatal Deduction

"The bargain hunter gals are at it again! Dunn's riotous romp
seamlessly tucks in truth and light and leaves us in stitches. A
must-read for those who think living by faith is boring." --Lois
Richer, author of Healing Tides

Ginger and her bargain hunter friends head down the Wind-Up
Hotel in Calamity, Nevada to outlet shop, attend the world's largest
garage sale and help Ginger's husband Earl get his invention off the
ground at the Inventor's Expo. But their girlfriend time vacation
doesn't go quite how they had planned…

To read an excerpt of these new titles go to Chapter-a-Week
and to join our deeper discussion go to our new site Chapter-a-Week Chat

where authors and readers discuss new titles together.

Healing Promises blog tour!

It's finally here!!! Come join me April 7th through 30th as I travel all across the blogsphere and even to parts Down Under!

There will be Healing Promises gift pack giveaways and other chances to win a signed copy of Healing Promises. Along the way I hope you'll learn lots, laugh much, and be inspired to trust that God is good, even when things don't go the way we pray.

April 7
Jennifer Allee

April 8
Jill Nelson

April 9
Sally Datria

April 10
Nora St. Laurent

April 11
Lindi Peterson

April 12
Rel Mollet, David Wallace

April 14
Tricia Goyer

April 15
Dineen Miller

April 16
Novel Journey

April 17
Cindy Woodsmall

April 18
Sharon Hinck

April 19
Gina Conroy

April 21
Keep Me In Suspense

April 22
Book Lover's News, Mary A.

April 23
Missy Tippens

April 24
Laurel Wreath, Danica

April 25
FAITH blog

April 26
Christy Smith

April 28
Christa Allan

April 29
Tiff Colter

April 30
Tiff Miller

Your Know You're a Writer When...

"You can take criticism gracefully from anybody but a relative, a friend, an acquaintance, or a stranger."

HA! That's me some days. ;-) Hopefully not most.

This and some other great quotes are from the book You Know You're a Writer When... by Adair Lara.

Here's one more for your funny bone...

"You like everything about writing...except the paperwork."

I totally resemble that remark.

Other than Ms. Lara's great quips about writing, I thought of one way I realized I'd "arrived" in the writing world.

It's not the voices in my head... though I have had that problem from time to time.

It's not the plethora of sticky notes, index cards or folders of research... though my desk would trumpet the reality that I keep paper makers in business.

No, I realized I was a writer when I received my first email from someone whose heart had been touched through a story with my name on it.

And I realized I was a much loved writer when my name and book cover showed up in my church's newsletter inviting everyone to come to my next book launch. Maybe that seems like a little thing to you. But it's HUGE to me. It's a paper hug that speaks support, encouragement and prayers that my church family is sending my way. It's also a God kiss that reminds me He's close and has everything, even my writing safe in His hand.

Hope you receive this weekend a special God kiss that reminds you He's there and loves you abundantly, extravagantly more than you can imagine!

6 random things

I don't know what I'd do without tags from friends to make me blog. ;-) A very sweet friend drew me out from under an avalanche of emails with the tag below. Thanks, Tori!

I have to tell you 6 unimportant things about myself, then tag 6 others to do the same and provide links to them and the original tagger.

1. I totally dig Godiva dark chocolate mint medallions.

2. I still have a teddy bear collection, including some bears from East Berlin.

3. I'm eating a gluten and dairy free diet and have found some foods that actually taste really good. ;-)

4. Blue is my favorite color.

5. My favorite place in the world is the beach.

6. I'm learning the joys of homemade chai instead of Starbucks.

Now, the six people I have tagged are: you! ;-) This is an if-you-want-to-play-along tag. So join the fun and leave a note in the comments.

Calling all writers

ACFW Writers of Remarkable Design invites you to join us, Saturday, April 26, 2008 for a hands-on workshop with award-winning author Anna DeStefano!

Anna will present two of her popular workshops, Plotting Through Character and Planning and Rewriting.

OPEN TO PUBLIC!

This event will be held at Sugar Hill United Methodist Church from 10 AM to 2 PM. Cost for ACFW local group members is $8, nonmembers $10. Price includes Chick-fil-A lunch. For directions: http://www.acfwword.com

Please RSVP via e-mail to: treasurer@acfwword.com Email reservations must be received by April 14 and payment received by April 18 to assure lunch reservation. Late reservations and walk-ins are welcome, however lunch will not be provided. (Sorry, no refunds after April 18.)

We look forward to having you join us!

Talk about an answer to prayer!

So many of you have shared this wild ride of the writing life with me and prayed for me often. Today I wanted to shout out about a surprise blessing and say THANK YOU for praying!!!

But first, a story...

Many of you know I spend my morning and early afternoon homeschooling my kiddos. During this time I don't answer the phone. So when it rings, we all typically ignore it.

Well...yesterday, I couldn't ignore the phone ringing off the hook. Six times. All before lunch.

I didn't pick it up, choosing to mutter about annoying telemarketers instead.

Then, the wonderful hour of quiet time arrived and my children were all in their rooms when the phone rang. AGAIN.

This time I picked it up, ready to blast the telemarketer.

Good thing I didn't. She wasn't a telemarketer at all. Nope. This very gracious lady was calling to inform me that I finaled in an RWA contest.

Red-faced and very thankful for no visual phones, I thanked her abundantly and hung up. Then I went to a WORD meeting (local ACFW writer's group) still not really knowing what in the world the lady on the phone was talking about.

I shared my telemarketer story with the group and one of my friends nearly jumped out of her seat with excitement, telling me I'd finaled in the RITA! As she proceeded to explain this awesome writing contest, I wished yet again I'd been nicer on the phone.

Today has been filled with phone calls of congrats and lots of wonderful emails. And I've been much nicer in answering. See, I'm learning. :-)

Here's the list of 2008 RITA for Inspirational Romance Finalists

A Touch of Grace by Linda Goodnight
Harlequin Enterprises, Steeple Hill Love Inspired - (978-0-373-87426-2)
Allison Lyons, editor

Autumn Blue by Karen Harter
Center Street, - (1-931722-61-7)
Christina Boys, editor

Pursuit of Justice by Pamela Tracy
Harlequin Enterprises, Steeple Hill Love Inspired Suspense - (978 0 373 44236)
Krista Stroever, editor

Rainbow's End by Irene Hannon
Harlequin Enterprises, Steeple Hill Love Inspired - (0-373-87415-4)
Melissa Endlich, editor

Ransomed Dreams by Amy Wallace
Random House Publishing, WaterBrook Multnomah - (9781590527474)
Julee Schwarzburg, editor

Splitting Harriet by Tamara Leigh
Random House Publishing, WaterBrook Multnomah - (1590529286)
Julee Schwarzburg, editor

Taming Rafe by Susan May Warren
Tyndale House Publishers, - (1414310188)
Karen Watson, editor

When the Morning Comes by Cindy Woodsmall
Random House Publishing, WaterBrook Multnomah - (9781400072934)
Shannon Hill, editor

THANK YOU again for all your prayers for my writing and for Ransomed Dreams to reach the hands and hearts of many folks. I sooooo appreciate you!

For Pete's Sake

I have another wonderful book to share! Linda Windsor has long been an author whose books I look forward to reading. She tells beautiful stories packed with breathing characters you'd like to invite over for coffee. Not only that, she can make you laugh out loud and learn something soul deep.

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing

For Pete's Sake
Book Two of the Piper Cove Chronicles
(Avon Inspire - April 1, 2008)

by
Linda Windsor

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Maryland author Linda Windsor has written some twenty-nine historical and contemporary novels for both the secular and inspirational markets, but she is most noted for delivering “The Lift of Laughter and Spirit” in her modern inspirational romances.

A Christy finalist and winner of numerous industry awards, Linda has written for Multnomah Publishing (historical fiction and contemporary romances), Barbour Publishing (romcom novella), and Westbow Press (the Moonstruck romantic comedy trilogy). Wedding Bell Blues the first book in her new The Piper Cove Chronicles series, is featured on Avon Inspire's launch list.

In addition to writing and doing fiction-writing workshops at conferences across the country, Linda continues a music and lay speaking ministry started by her and her late husband, and she is a part-time financial analyst. She also works on “as desperately needed” home improvement projects on the 18th-century-plus house that she and her husband began restoring in 1986. Wallpaper and paint are definitely in her near future.


ABOUT THE BOOK:


For Pete's Sake is a remarkable story about the unlikely love between a grown-up tomboy and the millionaire next door.

Ellen Brittingham isn’t sure true live exists until she contracts to do the landscaping of the estate of the sophisticated widower next door, Adrian Sinclair. Adrian has it all—at least on the surface. He’s engaged to a beautiful woman who helped him build a successful business and he’ll soon have a mom for his troubled son Pete.

Yet, from the moment Ellen rescues a stranded Adrian on her Harley, his well-ordered world turns upside down, cracking his thin façade of happiness and revealing the void of faith and love behind it. Even more, his son seems to have his own sites set on Ellen – as his new mom.

As Ellen’s friendship grows with Pete, she realizes that his father is about to marry the wrong woman for the right reasons. And despite her resolve to remain “neighbors only” with the dad, the precocious boy works his way into her heart, drawing Ellen and Adrian closer. Close enough for heartbreak, for Pete’s sake!

But how can her heart think that Adrian Sinclair is the one when he’s engaged to a sophisticated beauty who is everything Ellen isn’t. When Ellen’s three best friends see she’s been bitten by the love bug, they jump into action and submit her to a makeover that reveals the woman underneath her rough exterior and puts her in contention for Adrian’s love.

But Ellen must ask herself whether she’s ready to risk the heart that she’s always held close. Will Ellen be able to trust that God brought this family into her life for a reason? Or will her fear of getting hurt cause her to turn away from God’s plan and her one true chance at love?

Two Cups

Reading with my kiddos this week has brought me to tears many times. It's not like this is an unusual occurrence. We read tons of amazing books that we end up biting our nails to see how it ends and lifting up teary cheers in the end.

But the stories this week have been violent ones.

Ones about death.

And not the suspense genre kind.

Of these historical stories, the one that most deeply affected me was the one today called Two Cups.

It started with a simple meal, shared among friends. One cup, a symbol for what would take place starting later that night.

But the other cup symbolized a willingness to take part in an act that would mean death. Destruction. Hell in a very literal sense.

The first cup held wine and was blessed by Jesus and given to the disciples.

The second He drank in the garden of Gethsemane.

It's that cup which has brought me to tears this week. Not only did Jesus endure excruciating physical pain, but He became sin and experienced seperation from the Father.

So we wouldn't have to.

I can't begin to comprehend it. But it does something to my heart when I try. When I see the whip lashes and rough cross. When I listen to His last words.

When I realize He did all that for me.

As my children and I were talking about this, I said something that continues to reverberate in my soul~ I wonder if we really thought about what Jesus did on the cross, would it be so easy to sin?

For me, when I really contemplate the cross, it breaks my heart how easy it is for me to walk away and forget. To sin.

But that is one of the beautiful things about Easter. It's a time to remember. The cups Jesus drank. The cross where He died. The Empy Tomb.

To lift our eyes once again and give thanks, surrounded by other believers, watched by the angels and smiled on by God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit.

Because the cross declares our freedom from sin, the punishment paid. My life and yours redeemed.

And the Garden of Gethsemane reminds me of the two cups. Jesus offered one to do in remembrance of the new covenant. He drank from the second cup, willingly accepting the Father's plan. He took on suffering, sin and separation so that we could experience salvation. Abundant Life. Freedom.

I pray this Easter is one of remembrance. Of cup drinking. Of tasting and seeing that the Lord is good. And taking the cup willingly, receiving His good plan for us~ bitter along with sweet.

God is good all the time. And all the time, He is good. May this Good Friday and Easter Sunday be eyes-open days, full of light.

Drink deep and worship.

Can I ask a favor?

My amazing hubby and I are doing a "new" thing in terms of spreading the news about the Defenders of Hope series. This idea is by no means truly new, but we've had some great results so far and are hoping you all will join us.

What we're doing is visiting local bookstores to introduce ourselves and ask if they're planning to carry Healing Promises. We've also offered complimentary copies of the book to review and postcards for them to give customers.

So far the managers have been wonderful! Some are even planning to display Healing Promises at the Customer Service counter. Great exposure to new readers.

As a thank you, we're adding bookstores that carry Ransomed Dreams and Healing Promises to our website.

And that's where you all come in. If you know of bookstores in your area that carry the Defenders of Hope books, will you please let me know the store name and address? We'll add those to the Heart Chocolate site so people all over the US can see where to find the books.

If your local stores don't yet carry the Defenders of Hope books, would you ask them to order a copy (or two) to put on their shelves? Please feel free to let the managers know we’ll be adding their store to our website. Most have been very excited to hear that! And I'd be happy to send you some postcards or bag stuffers to offer the managers as well.

Thanks for helping me spread the word!

What's in a name?

Apparently, not only is there much to be said for having a good name, but also for having a popular name. ;-)

HowManyOfMe.com

There are 555 people with my name in the U.S.A. How many have your name?

Pet sins

I don't know about you, but there are areas I know well how weak I am. There are also some places in my heart and attitude I try to ignore.

Kind of like I try to ignore my kids repeated request to have a pet.

See, I'm now out of the diaper stage of parenting and the last thing I want is a puppy whimpering for a walk at 2 AM or the other odious tasks involved in pet care.

It's not that I dislike animals. I'm just living on the slow boil setting where one more daily task will turn the heat up to a Mount St. Helen's eruption in my brain.

Anyone relate?

Well, God seems to have the same view of my "pet sins" as I do of pets. Not that He can't handle them, but He knows I'm the one who can't handle those sins I'd rather ignore. Because they hurt me. And those I love.

But it's easier to feed these "pet sins" with words like, "They're not so bad" or lots of age-old excuses about my upbringing or life stage or so many things on my plate.

I'm always amused when folks give me these answers when we talk about "pet sins" like "frustration" or "chocoholism."

Ouch. That last one hurts.

And I'm not saying that the consumption of chocolate is a sin or that feeling frustrated is a sin. But for me, I know these two areas by other names...

Anger and gluttony.

And they are two "pet sins" God is opening me eyes to how much I feed them in my thoughts and actions.

It's not a pretty picture.

What frees me from dissolving into self-destructive thought patterns and the fast spiral downward is simple.

Not easy.

It's looking these "pet sins" in the mirror and calling them what they are.

Then, once I see them clearly, I can confess and throw myself in my heavenly Daddy's arms and admit I have no idea how to "fix" it.

I can't help but think He smiles when I do that.

He knows full well I can't fix it and He's never asked me to do that. What He asks is that I run to Him, depend on Him, and more than all the rest... love Him.

It helps that I know from experience He's far more filling and fulfilling than a piece of chocolate.

It also helps to remember the verses my kids and I read this morning.... nothing separates us from the love of God.

Not trials, pain or "pet sins."

Nothing.

So instead of eating that tempting piece of chocolate or letting Mount St. Helen's erupt in my brain, I think I'll go do a mirror check.

And trust that our heavenly Daddy is looking in there with me, eyes filled with love.

Calling all readers....

Introducing some very cool reads just for you...and a sweet deal for book lovers.

Chapter-a-Week gives readers the opportunity to read sample excerpts from a broad range of Christian fiction every week without having to pay a cent!

Plus it's a great way to discover new authors you might not have found otherwise.

Chapter-a-Week won't fill your inbox with needless emails either. Only one email per week is all it takes to discover great new titles.

Founded in February 2002 by beloved novelists Jane Orcutt and Angela Hunt, Chapter-a-Week has a steadily growing readership.

In honor of our 1000th member, Chapter-a-Week is giving away autographed books by your favorite Christian novelists! A box of books will be sent to our 1000th member, and if they mention that you recommended them, you'll receive two free books to your snail mail address too!

Chapter-a-Week is a Yahoo! Group, so simply sign on to be a subscriber of the list and you'll start receiving your excerpts every Friday. Just go to: Chapter-a-Week and click "join this group."

So come join the fun and meet some great authors via their exciting first chapters!

Sweet Caroline

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Sweet Caroline
(Thomas Nelson February 12, 2008)
by
Rachel Hauck

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:


I graduated from Ohio State University (Go Buckeyes!) with a degree in Journalism. As a member of Phi Mu sorority, I partied my way though the last few years of college.


But, the truth is, and always will be, I belong to Jesus. At the age of six, I knelt at the altar of a Tulsa Methodist church and gave my life to the One who loves me.


After graduation, hired on at Harris Publishing as a software trainer, determined to see the world. And I did it without a laptop, a cell phone, an IPod or portable DVD player. Those were hard times.


But, I traveled to Ireland, Spain, Venezuela, Mexico, Australia, Canada and the U.S. from California to Maine. But, life on the road is difficult. Working twelve to fourteen hour days, one doesn't get to see many of the sites. In Ireland, our company's distributor drove me around at night so I could see something of Dublin.


I met Tony, my husband, in '87, at church, of all places. We got married in '92. Tony has been a pastor for twenty years. I've worked with him in eighteen of those twenty. Our heart is to see teens and adults passionate, radical and whole hearted for Jesus.


Tony and I don't have any children of our own, lots of kids-in-the-Lord and we love them all. However, we do have a very spoiled dog, and an even more spoiled cat.


I've always wanted to be a writer. My dad used to tell me, "You're a writer." I have letters he wrote me post college, exhorting me to write. In this, I believe he had the heart of God.


In '93, I started an epic WW2 novel with two plots. It was well rejected. After that ordeal, I took a break and put efforts into my job as a software project manager. But, I missed writing and in late ' 99, I took up the craft again.


With a little help from my friends, my first book was published in ' 04, Lambert's Pride, a romance novel. I love writing chick lit and romance. I love writing. What an honor.


Rachel has several other books that have been received with great praise, including Diva Nash Vegas and Lost In Nash Vegas.


You can purchase copies of Rachel's books, signed personally for you, at this site: Signed by the Author.com



ABOUT THE BOOK:


When a Southern waitress inherits the Lowcountry cafe where she works, she suddenly has to balance more than just her next food order.


Caroline Sweeney has always done the right thing--the responsible, dependable thing--unlike her mother who abandoned her family. But when her best friend challenges her to accept an exciting job adventure in Barcelona, Spain, Caroline says "yes" to destiny.


Then, without warning, ownership of the run-down cafe where she's been waitressing falls right into Caroline's lap. While she's trying to determine the cafe's future, handsome Deputy Sheriff J.D. Rand captures Caroline's heart.

But when her first love, Mitch O'Neal, comes back to town, fresh from the heat of his newly-found fame as a country music singer in Nashville, Caroline must make some hard choices about love and the pursuit of the sweet life.

Truffles by the Sea Winner

Drum roll please.....

The winner of a very yummy copy of Julie Carobini's Truffles by the Sea is CINDI! Chocolate congrats!

Top ten reasons I haven't blogged lately...

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.

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.

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing

Truffles by the Sea

Bethany House (February 1, 2008)

by
Julie Carobini

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?

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.

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!

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?

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! :-)

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!

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!

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?

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.

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."

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.

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.

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!

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!

What Type of Writer Should You Be?

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. ;-)

You Are a Banana Split

Fruity, flavorful, and diverse. Who can beat a true superstar?

What Kind of Sundae Are You?

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.

What Kind of Chocolate Are You?

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

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

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.

ABOUT THE BOOKS:

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.

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!

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

What Kind of Coffee Girl Are You?

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.

Happy 13th Anniversary!

Happy 13th anniversary to my hubby David and my best friend Jen and her husband David!!!

Yep, we were married one hour apart on December 31, 1994.

And in honor of this big day, here are thirteen reasons why I still do...

To David: Thirteen reasons why I’d say “I Do” all over again


1) Besides the fact that you are as good-looking as you were on our wedding day, you still believe I’m beautiful and you say so, even when I step off the scale scowling.

2) You do the work God gave you to do, and you’re awesome at it. You not only provide well for our family, but you also encourage me to pursue my dreams~ even when that lands a huge load of extra work on your shoulders.

3) You believe in me.

4) You tell silly stories that make our girls laugh. They’re right when they say they have a great daddy. You love them and it shows.

5) You pray for us each and every night.

6) You have never really given up. You keep trying. God sees that and I’m beginning to as well.

7) You're serious about being the man God made you to be. I see you growing more each day and it's awesome.

8) Only you know all the inside jokes. Ping pong games, body chocolate, what happens with Christmas tree lights, why there are four hand squeezes to a good hand-holding time, and why we love—to infinity and beyond!

9) We can talk about books and movies and learn more about the stories and each other in the process.

10) You give me chocolate. ;-)

11) I can beat you in marbles.

12) You team up with God to push, pray, and cheer me on this writing journey.

14) You put up with all my many quirks and still think I’m the only best one for you. ;-)

Happy Anniversary Honey! I love you to infinity and beyond~ no matter what.

What's in a Word?

December is a contemplative month. Especially when the holiday hustle leaves us feeling like crumpled wrapping paper.

But instead of giving in to the post-holiday blahs, I spend the last week of the year thinking over the past twelve months and then looking ahead to the next.

One of the best ways I’ve found to do that in a hopeful light is to consider the power of a word and everything wrapped up in it.

For a few years now I’ve joined with a good friend and fellow blogger, Mary Griffith, seeking the Lord for a word that summarizes what He has in store for the coming year. It’s become an exercise of prayer and faith.

One that’s been very good for my heart.

Looking back...

In 2006 I looked forward to the word God whispered to my spirit~ ENJOY.

But I learned early in 2006, ENJOY didn't mean live it up and party. For twelve long months it meant learning to ENJOY God when there was little in life that would traditionally lead to experiencing joy.

Here's the link to read the vision God put before me and the rush of “have tos” and lies that nearly destroyed my joy : A Word for the heart

The word for 2007 was REST. And let me tell you, God had a lot to teach me about how wrong my ideas on rest really were.

It's been another challenging year, and yet God was there in the midst of every circumstance. A phrase from my post on a Word for the Year jumped out at me...

"A year wiser, I’m looking forward to the lessons of 2007 knowing there will be hard fought battles, tear filled circumstances, and quiet times of refreshing."

And so it was.

The battles were bloodier than I’d imagined, the tears more like heaving sobs, and the times of refreshing even more life-giving than I dreamed.

But instead of recounting the bad, I’d like to say some thank-yous for the amazing good that God brought out of the challenges and for the people who God used to show my heart how to rest.

Thank you to an amazing group of prayer warriors who held me up and spurred me on, even when I wanted nothing more than to lay down and let my dreams die. Your friendship, emails, cards, and phone calls were and are the best kind of heart chocolate!

Thank you to Sally and Heather and Laurie and Amy who came from afar to cheer my heart and celebrate April 17th. You made the launch party a much loved memory and high point of the year.

To my mom, sister, and in-laws: your presence at author events and prayers this year have strengthened and encouraged me so much!

To Elizabeth Medlin: thanks for late nights, lots of coffee, and a friendship that I treasure.

A huge thanks goes to my journey buddy, Sharon Hinck. My friend, you have cried with, laughed with, encouraged, and inspired me. Your writing is a gift from God and your friendship even more so. You walked a similar path and reminded me often to look to the Lord not the storm. I can’t wait to watch your face in heaven when you see all the amazing good you have done on this earth just by being you.

To my best friend, Jen Keithley, who never believed I would really quit: thanks for loving me well and letting me blow off steam on far too many occasions. And then reminding me to get back to work because God has called me and He will do even more than we can ask or imagine.

So much thanks goes to an awesome group of folks who have welcomed my family into their loving arms. To the Anchor family: you have given us a place to belong, grow, love and be loved. Thanks for being a glimpse of heaven for our weary souls.

More thanks than I can ever say goes to my three princesses. Not only do they love me to infinity and beyond, but their being proud of me salves my wounded heart when life and sales figures batter.

To my beloved hubby: we survived! :-) And God is up to some big things. Thank you for your forgiveness, for never giving up completely, for believing in me when I didn’t, and for making a way for me to see God. Also for enjoying Christmas tree lights~ those were a highlight of my holiday season.

More than anything, thank you Daddy for still being on Your throne. Because You are in control and are so very good, I can rest. You have given and taken away, but never left me to face the fallout alone. Blessed be Your Name. Always.

Looking ahead...

Now for this year’s word(s): EXPECTANT HOPE.

Beyond the other words God has given me, this phrase both terrifies and excites me. I’ve spent a lot of years being afraid to HOPE. Afraid to live in a state of EXPECTANCY because all too often life has dashed my hopes on harsh reality.

But along with these two powerful words came a reminder: My HOPE is in God. My EXPECTANCY is toward Him.

People don’t tend to handle expectations well. We sometimes feel pressure, fear, and helplessness from work and relational demands. But God longs for us to live in the wonder of EXPECTANCY like Simeon (Luke 2:25-32).

An EXPECTANCY that both looks and reaches up to receive what has been promised.

EXPECTANCY that believes God with a childlike faith. That reaches for Him and receives not only the sunshine and gifts, but also the storms and losses as coming from His hand. For our good. For His glory.

I pray you’ll join me in looking back to see what God has done in 2007. And then look ahead to what 2008 holds.

Even more, I pray you’ll step into the future holding the Lord’s hand and know that no matter what’s ahead your heavenly Daddy is holding you.

Dream big. Pray hard. Love well.

Happy New Year!