CARLA’S WRITING CAFÉ

A Time to Play

2012-01-25T22:46:00.000-06:00

I'm always a little flummoxed when it comes time to share about the Pulpwood Queens Girlfriend Weekend. So many emotions intertwine over the course of three days that it's difficult to sum it up in a few words. With this year's circus theme, though, every time my mind drifts back to that little town in East Texas, I can't help but smile. We did have fun, didn't we? So rather than tell you about it, I'll let you judge for yourself.

Authors Eleanor Brown and Stephanie McAfee

Authors Carolyn Leavitt, Margaret Dilloway, & Karen Harrington

Lovely Book Club members from Mr. Pleasant, TX

Jenny Wingfield of MAN IN THE MOON fame!

Courtney Walsh painted this picture for me to put in the Silent Auction which benefitted the Dolly Parton Imagination Library. THANKS, Courtney!!!!


Housemates from the DELTA STREET INN ready to head to the circus.

Book Signing with fellow panelists. Stephanie McAfee, Eleanor Brown, Me, Rebecca Rasmussen

PROM night! Karen Harrington is an amazing lady and author!

Fabulous Authors Nicole Seitz, Shellie Rushing Tomlinson, Lisa Wingate, and Marybeth Whalen

Comparing footware with Marcia Fine - the coolest gal from Arizona you'll ever meet!

HEAD Pulpwood Queen Kathy Patrick - lovely as always.

Fun Times at the Circus!

Aren't these the cutest clowns you've ever seen?

The Purple Leopard Clowns - so fun!

The group from Eureka, Kansas

Author group that won FIRST Place for their portrayal of THE NIGHT CIRCUS


New friends from Dallas area.

Can you see my dilemma? Too many things to describe and this is only a tiny portion of the weekend! There were 50 authors, 300 bookclub members, a bookstore, a former soap opera star, Hollywood peeps, more than a few NYT Best Selling authors, and more.

One of the more poignant parts of the weekend was the emphasis on literacy and the fantastic job Kathy Patrick does in generating enthusiasm among the 525 Pulpwood Queen Book Clubs to promote literacy and books. But that's a post for another time.

We had joy. We had fun. We acted silly. We went to the circus.

When was the last time you did something silly? Or laughed until you cried? If it's been awhile, then maybe you need to think about going to Girlfriend Weekend in Jefferson, Texas next year! See you there!

Don Reid of The Statler Brothers has new book - THE MULLIGANS OF MT. JEFFERSON

2012-01-19T23:24:00.000-06:00

I've been a fan of the Statler Brothers ever since "Flowers on the Wall" and have been to a LOT of their concerts. I've grown older right along with them. A couple of years ago I learned that Don was writing books, and I did a little cheer - I feel like we've both pursued our writing passions when our other obligations have come to an end. He, too, writes about the mysteries of life and how God shines through some people more than others. Good going, Don!

This has nothing to do with his new book, which is featured below, but I found this on YouTube and thought you might enjoy it. It's my all-time favorite Statler Brother song, and this particular recording is with the original tenor, Lew DeWitt.

And now the book information:

The Mulligans of Mt Jefferson

David C. Cook (January 1, 2012) by Don Reid

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Don is one of the original members of the STATLER BROTHERS, the most award-winning act in the history of country music. He and his brother and two friends began singing in their hometown of Staunton, Virginia when Don was only fourteen years old. Working all over their home and neighboring states as a part time group, they were discovered in 1964 by Johnny Cash and given their first record contract. By the time Don was 20 years old, the STATLERS had their first major, world-wide hit record with FLOWERS ON THE WALL, which started a string of hits that generated a career in the music industry that lasted for four decades. The STATLERS have been recipients of multiple industry awards:

It wasn’t until the STATLER BROTHERS decided to retire from traveling in 2002 that Don pursued his writing career to another level. Having songwriting and scriptwriting under his belt, the next obvious step was to write a book. And that book was the scripture based HEROES AND OUTLAWS OF THE BIBLE published in June of 2002 by New Leaf Press. He has since written two other non-fiction books and in 2008 saw another dream come true for Don when he released his first novel, O LITTLE TOWN. Novel number two came in the form of ONE LANE BRIDGE, and THE MULLIGANS OF MT. JEFFERSON, is a sequel to O LITTLE TOWN.

Don is the father of two sons. Debo and his wife, Julie, and daughters Sela Mae and Adra, live within a stone’s throw. You may have seen Debo’s name on many songs written with Don on albums over the years.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Cal, Harlan, and Buddy grow up together in a small Virginia town in the years before the second World War. United by age, proximity, and temperament, they get into—and out of—all the trouble that boys manage to find. They even earn a nickname from a local restaurateur who gives the boys their first jobs and plenty of friendly advice. “Uncle” Vic calls them the Mulligans, because they always seem to find a way through a thicket of trouble—family problems, girls, college, war—to success. Cal and Harlan and Buddy have been blessed with second chances.

Now it’s 1959, and police lieutenant Buddy receives an early-morning phone call: his friend Harlan, a store owner, has been shot in a break-in. Cal, now a preacher, meets Buddy at the hospital, and together, as professionals and as friends, they begin to unravel what might have happened to Harlan.

If you would like to read the first chapter of The Mulligans of Mt Jefferson, go HERE.

I'm running away with the circus!

2012-01-11T18:13:00.001-06:00

The lure of the bigtop awaits. The lights! The colors! The carny barkers and wild animal acts. The strange. The beautiful. The magnificent. I'm so excited I'm about to pop!

THE GREATEST BOOK SHOW ON EARTH in Jefferson, Texas kicks off tomorrow with the Clown Alley Author Dinner. The annual Pulpwood Queens Girlfriend Weekend is hosted by Kathy Patrick - the queen of books, hair, literacy efforts, and now - THE CIRCUS!

The official program of Girlfriend Weekend 2012.

This is the twelvth anniversary of Girlfriend Weekend, but only my second year to attend. I've been looking forward to it since the drive home last year. Some of the highlights on the program this year:

Tina Sloan (long running star of The Guiding Light) presenting part of her one-woman show Changing Shoes.

Deeanne Gist will be doing her BOTTOMS UP show featuring an intimate look at a Victorian woman's undergarments.

Keynote Speaker John Berendt, author of My Baby Blue Jays and Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.

Jenny Wingfield, author and film and television writer of The Man in the Moon fame.

Elaine Clark, radio voice-over star who will speak on There's Money Where Your Mouth Is.

In addition, a slew of fantastic authors will speak on panels all day Friday and Saturday with evening shows unparalleled on this side of the earth - Pretty in Pink Prom Night and The Great Big Ball of Hair with live music and more fun than is legal in the great state of Texas.

The real stars, though, are the book club members who hail from all over the US - delightful readers who've become friends.

Author Servers at the 2011 Author Dinner to kick things off on Thursday evening.

Don't you wish you were running away with me???? My costumes are ready, and I can't wait. I'll be back next week with loads of pics and the full report.

Dale Cramer up on CFBA with The Captive Heart

2012-01-09T10:47:00.001-06:00

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing The Captive Heart Bethany House (January 1, 2012) by Dale Cramer

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Dale Cramer spent his formative years traveling the world as an Army brat, then settled in Georgia at the age of fifteen when his father retired.

After high school he became an electrician, a job that took him to places as diverse as power plants, stadia, airports, high-rise office buildings and a hard-rock mining operation.

Twenty-five years of experiences in the trades provided him with the wealth of characters, stories and insights that populate his novels.

When he married his childhood friend, Pam, in 1975 he had no way of knowing they would not have children until fifteen years later.

In his early forties, when Dale left his job to become a stay-at-home dad, he suddenly found himself with time on his hands, so he pursued a lifelong dream and taught himself to write.

Using an online writer’s forum as a training ground, he wrote his first short stories in 1996. As his writing skills improved he turned to novels, publishing his first book, Sutter’s Cross, in 2003.

Since then, Dale has published four more novels and garnered a measure of critical acclaim with two Christy Awards, a listing among Publisher’s Weekly’s Best Books of 2004 and numerous other Best lists. Dale and his wife Pam live in Georgia with their two sons.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Bandit troubles intensify as Caleb Bender's family tries to settle into their new life in 1920s Paradise Valley. When El Pantera kidnaps Rachel and leaves her brother, Aaron, for dead, Jake Weaver and the Mexican native Domingo pursue the bandit leader to his mountain stronghold in a hopeless rescue attempt. Jake and Domingo manage to escape with Rachel, with the bandits hot on their trail. In a desperate attempt to avoid recapture, Domingo puts himself squarely in harm's way, giving Jake and Rachel time to get away. This is not the quiet life Caleb Bender envisioned when he led his family out of Ohio. What is a father to make of his daughter's obvious affection for a man outside the fold? And how will a pacifist Amishman like Caleb respond to the events that threaten his family and their way of life?

If you would like to read the first chapter of The Captive Heart, go HERE

BONUS: My friend Camille Eide did a four part, in-depth interview with Dale Cramer. To learn more about his Amish background, the writing of this series, and get a glimpse of his wonderful sense of humor, please visit the Word Serve Water Cooler.
Part One
Part Two
Part Three
Part Four
You can also read Camille's review of The Captive Heart here.

My Reading List for 2012

2012-01-03T22:28:00.000-06:00

When I was a kid, when we put more on our plate than we could eat, my dad would say, "Guess your eyes are bigger than your stomach." That's the way I feel when I survey my bookshelf and plan what books to move to the top of my reading list. I want to read them ALL! And I want to re-read my favorites. So making a list is an exercise in delusions of grandeur. Although I desperately want to devour them all, I have to narrow it down to a few dozen choices, knowing that there will be new releases and "hot" books hitting the bookstore shelves again this year. And that one-click button on Amazon is sooooo easy.

So this list is a loose outline of what I hope to read in the next twelve months, words that will nourish my spirit, give me a laugh or two, and prod me to be a better writer myself.

When Sparrows Fall by Meg Moseley (I've already started this one and am loving it)

The Bungalow by Sarah Jio

Half Broke Horses by Jeannette Walls (on last year's list - didn't get to it)

There You'll Find Me by Jenny B. Jones

From This Day Forward by Margaret Daley

Forgotten Garden by Kate Morton (also one I didn't get to last year)

The Girl Who Chased The Moon and Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen (recommended by a friend whose literary taste I trust)

Mother of Pearl by Kellie Gilbert (will have to wait as this is a September release)

Lilacs in Bloom and The Daughter's Walk by Jane Kirkpatrick

These are the books I have or know about. Charles Martin has a new one coming out and will likely move to the top of the pile the minute I get my hands on it. I also have three of Elizabeth Berg's books that I want to sink into - I love her voice and lovely stories.

I also want to revisit my Anne Tyler collection - I'm thinking The Accidental Tourist and Back When We Were Grownups. It's been too long since I've enjoyed one of her books.

Now for a fun surprise:

What books were on the NYT Bestsellers List on this week in January, 1952?

No. 1 - The Caine Mutiny by Herman Wouk
No. 8 - From Here to Eternity by James Jones
No. 12 - The Catcher in the Rye by JD Salinger

Sixty years and these are still beloved. Classics, I suppose, by now. I'll think I'll add The Catcher in the Rye to my 2012 list.

How do you choose what books you want to read? Friend recommendations? Best-seller lists? Classics? Do you ever read books more than once?

2012 is off to a great start! What's the first book you want to read?

The Best Reads of 2011

2011-12-29T23:45:00.001-06:00

What a great year for books! Unfortunately, it wasn't a great year for time to read all the books I wanted. The year started off with my going to the Pulpwood Queens Girlfriend Weekend in Jefferson, TX. There I was introduced to many new (to me) authors which added to my already leaning pile of books-I-want-to-read-before-I-die.

Writing, editing, and marketing took a big chunk of my reading time in the middle part of the year, but I've finished strong and read some darned good books the last few month. Before I get to that, I have to tell you about a new and interesting twist to my author life - I was asked to read a number of books for endorsement - that pithy little blurb that appears sometimes on the cover or in the flyleaf at the front of a book. What an honor . . . and a responsibility. You can either gush and sound really silly or try out some sixty-four dollar words and sound stuffy or you can give a brief but lively blurb that pulls out the strengths of the book. Luckily, for me, this was easy as all the books I was asked to read only added to my literary enjoyment this year.

So to start things off, these are the authors and their books that I've endorsed this year:

When All My Dreams Come True by Janelle Mowery
Reinventing Leona by Lynne Gentry
Reclaiming Lily by Patti Lacy
Savanna's Gift by Camille Eide
Wish You Were Here by Beth K. Vogt (2012 release)
A Sweethaven Summer by Courtney Walsh (2012 release)
The Mother Road by Jennifer AlLee (2012 release)

Such a privilege to read these heart-warming stories. The one thing they all had in common was the unique voice that each author brought to the book.

Now, on to the Best of List. I sometimes do a top five in two or three categories, but this year my reading took me far and wide so I'm going to do like they do on the televised awards shows and invent categories to suit my needs.

Best Memoir:

In the Sanctuary of Outcasts by Neil White

Best Novel Set in England:

Major Pettigrew's Last Stand by Helen Simonson

Best Novel Set in the South:

Georgia Bottoms by Mark Childress - Absurd and Hilarious!

Best Literary Novel:

The Violets of March by Sarah Jio

Best Novel from CBA (Christian Booksellers Association):

The Sweetest Thing by Elizabeth Musser

Two-Way Tie for Second Place:
Blue Skies Tomorrow by Sarah Sundin
A Sound Among the Trees by Susan Meissner

Best Christan Debut:

Wings of a Dream by Anne Mateer

OVERALL BEST BOOK: Remember what I said about that huge pile of books. The best book I read this year is one that's been gathering dust for a couple of years, the one I'd heard great things about but never seemed to pull out and read. Although it has a 2007 pub date, 2011 was the year I discovered it, and everything I've ever heard about this book was true. Gritty. Mesmerizing. Heart-wrenching. The writing is unlike anything you've ever read. The characters and the story will wind around your heart and squeeze until you think you can't breathe. The impression will not go easily away. A teaser: I will never see or hear an accordion again without thinking of my choice for Best Book of 2011 - The Book Thief by Markus Zusak.

It will most likely be read again in 2012.

How about you? Are you familiar with these authors or these books? See anything interesting? It was an eclectic year for me, and that's just the way I like it!

Happy New Year! I'll be back next week to tell you about the books I'm looking forward to in 2012.

Giveaways and Christmas Wisdom You Can Use

2011-12-09T23:29:00.000-06:00

Writing friends are amazing! Today I'm sending you to a couple of hot spots on the web so you can judge for yourself.

Courtney and I with "our" agent in the middle

Dear, dear friend, Courtney Walsh, is giving away stuff, and I mean LOTS of stuff on her blog this week and next. Today is a multi-gift giveaway for the creative soul, and she's giving away Broken Wings and a jazzy 3 CD-set of Harry Connick, Jr. and several scrapbooking lovers items, including the scrapbooking book she authored. Like I said, very cool. Look for her other giveaways coming up too!

Courtney's Blog

My friend Judy Christie is a prolific novelists AND writes non-fiction AND she has the most wonderful sense of humor. She's a joy to be around and has some great advice from her new book Hurry Less, Worry Less, at Christmas which she shared on Inspire A Fire. You'll love this!

I'm trying to be more intentional this year and did a minimal amount of decorating, but I did set out the nativity sets. I love the simplicity of this one.

Have a great weekend!

Book Giveaway Winners

2011-12-04T22:46:00.000-06:00

Thank you, readers for the many comments on the posts for Alice Wisler's A Wedding Invitation and for my "thank you" giveaway for the choice of either of my books.

Ta-Da! The winner of A Wedding Invitation is Deb's Desk. Enjoy!

Cheryl Barker and Seashore Mary (love that name!) were the lucky winners of my post and have both chosen to receive Broken Wings.

Much appreciation to all of you for stopping by. If you didn't win, there's still time to get copies of all three books for Christmas giving. Click on title to take you to the spot where you can do that.

Chasing Lilacs

Broken Wings

A Wedding Invitation

In other news, this lovely review of Broken Wings from TheDabblingMum came to my attention last week. There are no words for the gratitude that comes when someone takes the time to express such poignant feelings about a book. Thank you, Alyice, for the review, and thank you readers for making what I do such a pleasure.

Thirty Days of Thanksgiving - Day 30

2011-11-30T01:03:00.000-06:00

Day 30.

It's been a fun month, hasn't it? I've enjoyed spending time each day thinking of things for which I'm thankful. Family, friends, writing colleagues, and you, my readers. Thanks for sharing the journey with me.

As the month closes, it's time to look ahead, not back, so I'm heading into December with anticipation of the greatest birthday the world has known.

"Come, Immanuel, Come."

Thirty Days of Thanksgiving - Day 29

2011-11-29T00:05:00.004-06:00

Day 29. A Sweet Deal for You.

While writing is a solitary endeavor, many people are involved into the process of a completed novel – agents, editors, copy editors, art departments, publicists, and one of the most crucial in my opinion – critique partners. These are the brave souls who see the ugly parts of our stories, all the dangling participles, misplaced modifiers, goofy and illogical ideas, and atrocious spelling. Finding critique partners who understand your vision and are able to slap you around one minute and offer cyber hugs the next are more precious than rubies. They must be tough on the outside and marshmallowy on the inside.

I’ve been fortunate to have a few critique partners who’ve shaped my work and encouraged me along the way. I’m eternally grateful as these ladies have also become dear friends. But the joy of being a crit buddy is that we are also able to celebrate the successes of one another.

One of my best critique buddies is Camille Eide. She's smart, savvy, and funny, and I’m as proud as a new momma that her first novella is releasing in just four days! It’s a lovely story (I’ve had the pleasure of reading and endorsing this enchanted Christmas tale). So for today I’m going to send you over to Camille’s blog where she has some fun things going on – a Christmas cookie recipe exchange and a chance to win a copy of her “baby” – Savanna’s Gift – an e-book just in time for Christmas. And you’ll get to meet Camille, too, who’s as lovely and witty as her blog.

See you tomorrow for Day 30 of Thanksgiving.

Thirty Days of Thanksgiving - Day 28

2011-11-28T00:05:00.002-06:00

Day 28.

A frost is in the air. Most of the turkey is gone. ALL of the pie is gone (thank goodness for that!). The house is quiet. All is calm. And I’m thankful for the relaxed Thanksgiving we've had with two of our sons and their families. We enjoyed eating (of course), watching football, playing cards in the kitchen, and doing a jigsaw puzzle in the dining room.

I’d forgotten how much I enjoyed sitting around a table, sorting puzzle pieces by color, elbowing each other looking for just the right piece. It’s a sort of being together that we don’t do much of anymore, and you know I’ve missed that. With our iPads and data phones and laptops, I wonder if we’ve forgotten how to just “be” with one another. No agenda. No volume controls. No clock to watch. And you can get up from the table and meander off to do something else for awhile or stretch your legs. And when you come back with a cuppa something warm, someone will have added a few new pieces and you settle in for another session, heads together, bent over looking for an elusive piece or giving a little hoo-rah when you find it. And always toward the end, the pieces start flying into place and you joke about who will get to put in the last piece. Being the grownups we were, we let one of the grandkids have the esteemed honor.

I’m thankful for the reminder of simpler times, of the pleasure of doing a jigsaw puzzle. And because I enjoyed it so much, I’ve added “get a new puzzle” to the Christmas list. Actually, I can’t wait.

How about you? Were there any reminders of the past from your Thanksgiving weekend? What family activities did your family enjoy?

2011-11-27T00:05:00.001-06:00

Day 27. The Letter Z.

Today I’m thankful for the one who is my constant muse and companion. She gives unconditional love with no strings attached, unless you count the daily ritual of an after-dinner treat. I’m never lonely or truly alone with my faithful pup at my side. I can’t imagine a world without animals or my home without this sweet girl – Zelda.

As a puppy almost 8 years ago

Zelda today, still loved and adored.

Thirty Days of Thanksgiving - Day 26

2011-11-26T00:05:00.002-06:00

Day 26. The Letter Y for You, my readers!

If you have read one of my books, thank you.

If you have attended one of my book launches or book signings, I appreciate the time you took from your busy life to celebrate with me.

If you have written a review and posted it on your blog or online, thank you for sharing your insights and your gift of words.

If you’ve read my blog, been friends with me on Facebook, have liked my Facebook author page, or followed me on Twitter, thanks for hanging out and spending your days with me.

If you’ve said a prayer or given me a word of encouragement, you’ve blessed me in ways you can’t imagine.

If you’ve written me a note, an email, or messaged me, thanks for the sacrifice of your time.

If you’ve shared my books with others or recommended them to a friend, you are a treasure above all things.

To all of you, my gratitude overflows. Because of you, I search for the perfect word, that special turn of phrase, the spark that will make my stories come alive. It’s for you I write.

As a very small way of saying thanks, I’m giving away two of my books in a drawing. I’ll be drawing two names on Dec. 3, and winners may choose either Chasing Lilacs or Broken Wings. To be entered in the drawing, please leave a comment WITH YOUR CONTACT INFORMATION telling me how you first found out about my blog or my books. Even if you already own one or both books, you’re welcome to enter. I’d be honored if you won and gave my book to your church or local library or gave it as a gift. If you’re a first-time reader, my hope is that you will like what you read and tell others.

Thanks for your support and joining this adventure with me!

Note: These are my personal books. Chances of winning dependent on number of entries. Void where prohibited. Open to North American residents only.

Thirty Days of Thanksgiving - Day 25

2011-11-25T00:05:00.002-06:00

Day 25 – The Letter X

Today’s letter is the tricky little X, which can serve as a legal signature if you’re unable to write your name. It’s also the unknown in math – the number to be found that will make an equation true. It’s also the symbol that indicates the crossing of two objects or things to come up with something totally different and new.

That said, I have a question for you today:

What happens when you cross a best-selling non-fiction author with a Christy award winning novelist? Since it’s Black Friday and I don’t want to slow down your pursuit of the “perfect” deal, I won’t keep you in suspense.

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing A Marriage Carol Moody Publishers (September 1, 2011) by Chris Fabry and Gary Chapman

ABOUT THE AUTHORS:

CHRIS FABRY is a graduate of W. Page Pitt School of Journalism at Marshall University and Moody bible Institute's Advanced Studies Program. Chris can be heard daily on Love Worth Finding, featuring the teaching of the late Dr. Adrian Rogers. He received the 2008 "Talk Personality of the Year" Award from the National Religious Broadcasters. He has published more than 60 books since 1995, many of them fiction for younger readers. Chris collaborated with Jerry B. Jenkins and Dr. Tim LaHaye on the children's series Left Behind: The Kids. His two novels for adults, Dogwood and June Bug, are published by Tyndale House Publishers. Chris is married to his wife Andrea and they have five daughters and four sons.

GARY CHAPMAN is the author of the bestselling Five Love Languages series and the director of Marriage and Family Life Consultants, Inc. Gary travels the world presenting seminars, and his radio program airs on more than 400 stations.

ABOUT THE BOOK

On Christmas Eve twenty years earlier, Marlee and Jacob were married in a snowstorm. This Christmas Eve, they are ready to quit, divorce is imminent. Their relationship is as icy as the road they’re traveling and as blocked with troubles as the piling snow. They take a shortcut to get to the lawyer’s office, on a slippery, no-fault path. She thinks they need to stay on the main road. He disagrees. They fight. Story of their lives and they slam into a bank of snow , spinning, drifting, falling, out of control. Just like their lives. Reluctantly, freezing cold, hungry, scared, she trudges up the hill. Paul is nowhere to be found. Her ears frozen, fingers and hands red, she comes to a house on the hillside, built like a Bed and Breakfast, a green wreath on the red door and the door-knocker is in the shape of a wedding ring.

The red door opens and the first thing she notices is the fire in the room, blazing hot, a warm, inviting, friendly place and the voice of an old man welcomes her in. There are three golden pots on the hearth, shining, glimmering things. The old man claims that they are used to restore marriages. She laughs—and begins a journey through her past, present, and future that will test how she views her lifelong love. There are two futures available. Which will she choose?

If you would like to read the first chapter excerpt of A Marriage Carol, go HERE.

Thirty Days of Thanksgiving - Day 24

2011-11-24T00:05:00.002-06:00

Day 24. Happy Thanksgiving!

Departing from the alphabet today to celebrate Thanksgiving. Hope your day is blessed and filled with all the things you love – turkey and the trimmings, big screen football, sweet reminisces, and barrels of laughter. Love on your family. Have a second helping of dressing and a whole piece (or two) of pumpkin pie. Jump in the leaves. Hug a child. And in everything, give thanks.

You are loved!

Have a safe and glorious day!

Thirty Days of Thanksgiving - Day 23

2011-11-23T00:05:00.002-06:00

Day 23. The Letter W.

Today is a grab bag of things that I’m thankful for that begin with the letter “W”, and at the end of the post, a special surprise for you.

Words: No secret here – I’m in love with words. I’m in love with Writing words. I love it when I think about it for two days and find the exact perfect word for a scene that I’m working on. I know it’s a quirk, but it does give rise to another thing for which I’m thankful – the community of Writers. Thankfully, people in this weird tribe understand what I’m talking about.

One of my writing pals – who is a doll and not weird at all – is Alice Wisler, a two-time Christy award nominee. She writes tender love stories with fun, quirky characters who have a touch of southern sass AND Alice always includes recipes in her books. I love that about her, and I think you’ll like her latest release:

A Wedding Invitation.

After returning home from teaching English at a refugee camp in the Philippines, Samantha Bravencourt enjoys her quiet life working at her mother's clothing boutique in Falls Church, Virginia. When she receives an invitation to a wedding in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, she looks forward to reconnecting with her college friend. Instead her life collides with Carson, a fellow teacher and the man who broke her heart, and a young Amerasian refugee named Lien who needs Samantha and Carson's help to find her mother before Lien's own wedding. When the search for Lien's mother reveals surprising secrets from the past, Samantha must reevaluate her own memories and decide whether to continue to play it safe or take a risk that could change her life.

If you would like to read the first chapter of A Wedding Invitation, go HERE.

Now, the fun for you. I’ll be giving away a copy of A Wedding Invitation on Saturday, Dec. 3. To get your name in the hat for the drawing, please leave a comment WITH YOUR CONTACT INFO on this post and tell me what you are most grateful for this Thanksgiving. I’ve done enough talking this month, it’s your turn!

Disclosure: This book was provided by Bethany House. Contest void where prohibited. Chances of winning dependent on number of entries.

Thirty Days of Thanksgiving - Day 22

2011-11-22T00:05:00.001-06:00

Day 22. The Letter V for Dream Vacation.

Last May, Max and I had the trip of a lifetime – a week in Maui. We had not really intended to plan such a trip even though “everyone” said we should. Then, to our surprise, Max found out his company wanted him to attend a leadership conference in Maui – on their nickel. This was not rocket science. Of course we went.

Even now, six months later, when I close my eyes, I see glorious sunsets and remember my first glimpse of lipstick trees (which are much more vivid in person than in this photo!) and the rocky cliffs along the twisty road to Hana. Apparently we “just missed” seeing George Lopez, Sir Anthony Hopkins, and Steven Tyler, but it wasn’t the celebrities I went for. What I remember most was walking on the beach in the moonlight, sipping MaiTais in an open air café jutting out over the Pacific, and the sweet indulgence of Maui gold pineapple. It was like “everyone” said – paradise on earth – the handiwork of God at its finest.

What a special gift. My heart is full with the memories. And lest the images grow dim, I still have 650 digital photographs to remind me. Here are a couple you might like.

What is your dream vacation? What are you waiting for?

Thirty Days of Thanksgiving - Day 21

2011-11-21T00:05:00.001-06:00

Day 21. The letter U for Unicorn.

When my boys were young, Roger Whittaker made a children's album – fun, silly songs like Google Eye, Boa Constrictor, Puff The Magic Dragon, Winken, Blinken and Nod, and my personal favorite – The Unicorn Song. The kids loved it, and truthfully, so did we (We still have the album!). Today I’m thankful for those magical songs – the moments of whimsy when for a little while you can almost imagine the possibility of being swallowed whole by a boa constrictor or that once upon a time Unicorns roamed the earth and that they were the loveliest of all creation – those silly unicorns.

Here’s the Irish Rovers rendition of The Unicorn Song – I think you’ll agree a touch of whimsy once in a while is a very good thing.

Thirty Days of Thanksgiving - Day 20

2011-11-20T00:05:00.000-06:00

Day 20. The Letter T.

It’s no secret that I have a special attachment to the little state south of the one where I now live. Although I’m a Sooner born and bred and proud of my Oklahoma roots, I moved to Texas when I was two and grew up there. Max and I honeymooned in Dallas and later lived many wonderful years there. Two of our boys were born in Texas as well as two of my grandsons. And I do admit that when I cross the Red River, a small part of me sighs – Home.

So today I’m grateful for the privilege of being a Texan a few times in my life, for the sweet memories, and for the friends who still live there. You know who you are.

Thirty Days of Thanksgiving - Day 19

2011-11-19T00:05:00.001-06:00

Day 19. The Letter S.

Today I’m thankful for my son Scott. He came twenty-four tension-filled minutes after his twin brother, Brett. Their differences were apparent from the beginning, being fraternal for one thing, but I’m amazed at how early in each of our boys’ lives their personalities became evident. Scott has always—ALWAYS—been a competitor and understood the concept of numbers.

He figured out multiplication in kindergarten (stunning his teacher) and by the time he was seven years old, he read the sports section every morning with his Cocoa Pebbles and began memorizing the baseball stats of his favorite players. He spent hours every day shooting baskets in the driveway. Rain or shine. Summer or winter. He took breaks by throwing a baseball against a pitchback.

It didn’t surprise us when he chose to major in math in college and went on to get a Master’s in statistics. Scott thinks in percentages and can probably tell you the odds of how often a fraternal twin becomes the father of identical twins. What goes around comes around, and he now has the pleasure (and challenge) of raising twins.

He and Denice get bonus points, though, for presenting us with our first grandgirl four years ago. I’m 100% certain she’s the cutest girl on the planet, and I’m 95% sure that Scott can still give you the lifetime stats of his all-time favorite baseball player, Reuben Sierra.

I’m a lucky mom. My heart overflows with thankfulness for these fine young men. Selfishly, I’m also a wee bit thankful for the solitude of my life now. Can you relate?

Thirty Days of Thanksgiving - Day 18

2011-11-18T00:05:00.001-06:00

Day 18. The Letter R for Random.

Some random things I’m thankful for today. Here goes:

My iPad!

My awesome new hairdresser!

My friend Debbie remains cancer free after her latest checkup (along with my sis and my cousin) - Yay!!!

I love elastic waists . . . . and spandex.

My mammo came back A-OK.

I am my dog’s favorite person (my sweet hubby just

told me this, but I already knew it).

Foreman grills.

My friend Glo is Grammy again for the third time.

This year’s Thanksgiving turkey is already in the freezer.

The foliage this year was in Technicolor.

We survived our first earthquake! (Along with 3.75 million other people in my state)

FREEDOM!

Two of my best writing buddies have debut books hitting the market soon!

I could go on and on, but the thing I’m most grateful for on “random” day is that it wasn’t random at all that Jesus came to earth, that he lived and died for me, that my days were planned before the foundations of the earth. The joy of belonging to Jesus and the hope of eternity lifts me to the heavens every day.

I’m not worthy. But I am thankful.

Thirty Days of Thanksgiving - Day 17

2011-11-17T00:05:00.003-06:00

Day 17. The letter Q for Quilts.

We’ve been having an on-again/off-again start to autumn. The leaves are falling at a steady (frantic) pace, and some days are sweater days, some aren’t. Today was a chilled-to-the bone curl-up-in-my-favorite-quilt kind of day. I brewed a cup of green tea, crawled under my favorite throw, and logged on my computer to check email and catch up with latest on FB and Twitter. Of course I’m thankful for all those ways to stay connected with friends and family – you are the best!

But this time of year when the first really cold blasts come, I’m also reminded of how much I love quilts. I’m thankful that many of the ones I have connect me to my past, one as far back as my great-grandmother. A few were made just for me which makes them all the more special. And a few I’ve rescued from yard sales, sad that the owners would turn loose of a piece of who they are because the color was no longer in style or they didn’t value the hours and love that goes into stitching together a quilt. I’m honored to have the ones I have. They are treasured. Here’s a peek at a couple of them.

Wishing you lots of cozy quilt days with your favorite cuppa this Thanksgiving!

Thirty Days of Thanksgiving - Day 16

2011-11-16T00:05:00.002-06:00

Day 16. The Letter P for Pumpkin.

I can’t remember a time when I didn’t love pumpkin pie. It was one of my mom’s favorites, and she made yummy ones every Thanksgiving. I’m happy to say that today I still use her recipe – the one straight off the side of the Libby’s ® can. It’s smooth and rich, has just the right balance of spice that suits me, and with a dollop of whipped cream or Cool Whip ® on top, it’s just about perfection.

So today, I’m thankful for whoever the first person was who decided to cut the top off a pumpkin and was brave enough to scoop out that mess of stringy goo and slick seeds to find out what lay beyond. Perhaps the first pumpkins were roasted and served as a veggie, with a shake of salt and pepper. Or perhaps the meaty part was cut in chunks and thrown in some broth as part of an autumn soup. Pure conjecture here on my part. But it did make me wonder whether or not the harvest table at Plymouth Rock had pumpkin pie on that first Thanksgiving. The only thing I feel certain about is that in circa 1621 they didn’t have Cool Whip ®.

But I did a little investigating and found this article about what the probable menu was on that first Thanksgiving feast. The feast itself lasted three days, and I’m not in favor of reverting back to that. One day of being stuffed to the gills is enough.

More than likely they served deer and wildfowl (turkey perhaps?) but no bread-based stuffing. They may have used herbs or nuts to stuff the bird, however. And they laid the table with native fruits (yay for cranberries!) and local vegetables like leeks, carrots, and turnips. No mention of pumpkin. It’s a fascinating article so head on over there for a little history lesson.

For you today, though, my mom’s recipe for pumpkin pie – a la Libby’s.

LIBBY’S ® Famous Pumpkin Pie Recipe

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

• 2 large eggs

• 1 can (15 oz.) LIBBY'S® 100% Pure Pumpkin

• 1 can (12 fl. oz.) NESTLÉ® CARNATION® Evaporated Milk

• 1 unbaked 9-inch (4-cup volume) deep-dish pie shell

• Whipped cream (optional)

Directions

MIX sugar, cinnamon, salt, ginger and cloves in small bowl. Beat eggs in large bowl. Stir in pumpkin and sugar-spice mixture. Gradually stir in evaporated milk.

POUR into pie shell.

BAKE in preheated 425° F oven for 15 minutes. Reduce temperature to 350° F; bake for 40 to 50 minutes or until knife inserted near center comes out clean. Cool on wire rack for 2 hours. Serve immediately or refrigerate. Top with whipped cream before serving.

What are you looking forward to at Thanksgiving? Any special desserts or family recipes that you can't live without?

PS: Bonus: Libby's invented this recipe and started putting it on the side of the can in what year?

Thirty Days of Thanksgiving - Day 15

2011-11-15T00:05:00.001-06:00

Day 15. The Letter O for Opportunity.

As Thanksgiving Day draws near, I’m glad that I’ve set aside a few minutes each day to reflect on specific people and things for which I’m grateful. To be honest, I don’t always feel like doing it. I have a lot of projects going on; I made a trip in the early part of the month; and I’m trying to get a few pages done each day on my next novel. But this has been a good exercise for me to be a disciplined writer and reflect on things that matter most.

As we reach the halfway mark, you guessed it – today’s word is opportunity. How blessed we are to live in a land of boundless opportunities – the freedom to choose what we want to wear, whether we want to live in a house or an apartment, whether or not to go to college, whom we will marry, even if we want to have children. Obviously we took several opportunities to explore that option at one time or another and have four sons, who have turned into pretty cool young men, to show for it.

I’m sure I’ve missed a few golden opportunities along the way – haven’t we all? But Thanksgiving is a good time to take the opportunity to make someone’s life brighter or easier by hearing a kind word, receiving a thoughtful note, or being invited to lunch.

And while we’re on the subject of opportunity, I want to remind you that you have until this Saturday to claim your “coupon code” for Novel Morsels (See button on right side of this blog and click to read about it or check out this post). Leave a comment with your contact info and I’ll zip the code right out to you. It’s an opportunity you don’t want to miss!

See you tomorrow!

Thirty Days of Thanksgiving - Day 14

2011-11-14T00:05:00.004-06:00

Day 14. The letter N for Nostalgia.

Time for a blast from the past. Today I'm thankful for YouTube to take us back to the Good Old Days!

Enjoy!

Any golden oldie memories you want to share? I'm listening.

Thirty Days of Thanksgiving - Day 13

2011-11-13T00:05:00.000-06:00

Day 13. The letter M for Max.

Today, I’ve been married to the love of my life, my best friend for 39 years, 5 months, and 18 days. It seems like yesterday when my dad walked me down the aisle and handed me off to Max. We had stars in our eyes and no earthly idea what we were doing. But, by the grace of God and his mercies which are new every morning, here we are. I’m thankful every day for Max, and just as I promised those many years ago to love, honor, and cherish, I’d marry him again in a heartbeat.

I love you, honey. Thank you for being the rock that I need, understanding all my wacky ways, and still loving me.

Thirty Days of Thanksgiving - Day 12

2011-11-12T00:10:00.000-06:00

Day 12. The Letter L for Legacy.

I was honored recently to sit in my pastor’s study and learn more about the legacy of our church. He was kind enough to write an article about the time capsule that was found during a reconstruction project and how First Baptist Tulsa has impacted our city for more than one hundred years. I’d love for you to read Deron Spoo’s inspiring story on Inspire a Fire.
Talking with Deron made me think more about the concept of legacy, and I think it’s something to ponder during this month of Thanksgiving.

What sort of legacy will you leave for future generations? What will be your personal mark on the world? For some, it might be building an empire, getting your name on a plaque on the side of the building, or having a vaccine that eradicated a terrible disease named after you. The majority of us leave a mark that is far less grandiose and yet, in the big scheme, every bit as important. Raising a child, enduring a debilitating disease, teaching a classroom of students to read, holding the hand of a parent who’s just lost a child. When others observe you in action, an impression is made, and over the course of a lifetime, many small impressions become your legacy.

From my parents, I learned about Jesus and faith, the importance of being honest, and gained confidence that I could accomplish whatever I put my hand to. From my grandparents, I have the examples of strong family loyalty and the value of hard work that led them to survive the Great Depression. During this Thanksgiving season, I’m grateful for a strong heritage, for the fact that I knew all of my grandparents and several of my great grandparents.

And now I’m a grandparent myself. It doesn’t seem possible, but life passes at such warp speed that it makes me dizzy, and I wonder what possible impact I’m having on the world and on my family. I’m nearly certain that I won’t be remembered in future generations as a scholar or writer who changed the world. A few people may be blessed by my books, but the greater scope will probably be passed down through the family. When it’s all said and done, I pray my legacy is positive and that people say I wasn’t afraid to look life in the eye and accept new challenges, that I gave it my all, that I spoke up when I needed to, and that I shared the love of Jesus. I’ve been a miserable failure many times with those very things, but at the end of my life, I would feel honored to have the epitaph on my tombstone read, “She tried.”

What sort of legacy are you leaving? How do you want people to remember you?

Thirty Days of Thanksgiving - Day 11

2011-11-11T00:05:00.001-06:00

Day 11. The Letter K.

I’ve always had a fascination with Koala Bears, those fuzzy marsupials from Down Under with lighter colored tufts coming out of their ears and sparkly little eyes. They look intelligent and thoughtful like they have loads of great thoughts they’d love to share with you. I’ve only had the pleasure of seeing them "in person" once – a few years ago at the San Diego zoo, and seeing the mama koala with a baby on her back lumber along at a sloth’s pace was worth the price of admission.

Then, a couple of years ago, I started getting comments on my blog from someone named Koala Bear Writer. Since then, I’ve learned she is from Canada, a fellow writer, and we’ve become cyber friends. So in honor of Koala Bear Writer, I’m thankful today for those who’ve made my life richer through cyberspace. Here are a few of my favorite blog stops: an even dozen for your reading pleasure. When you visit, be sure and say I sent you!

Rel is a real girl from Down Under, so hats off to her today, too, on Koala Day!!

And an added thanks to all the veterans who've sacrificed their time and lives for our country, especially to my dad who served in Korea and to my son, Brett, who is on active duty now with the US Coast Guard. I'm proud of you and appreciate you. God Bless America!

Thirty Days of Thanksgiving - Day Ten

2011-11-10T00:05:00.002-06:00

Day 10. The Letter J.

Today I’m thankful for my son James – the “baby” of the family.

By the time your fourth child comes along, you think you know the drill and what to expect. Granted, it had been eight years since I’d given birth to the twins and the Big 3-0 had sailed past in a blur. But just about the time I got cozy with having all my boys in school, you guessed it – baby fever hit. Max and I prayed about whether this was a good idea or not, but after a couple of months, we knew we wanted to have another child.

The entire pregnancy I had a weird skin condition and at one point had ankles the size of tree trunks. I was miserable, but thought it might be a sign that this time we’d have a girl. God had other plans. Not quite a year after we’d been stricken by the baby bug, boy number four arrived. One month early. Adorable with loads of silky black hair and three brothers who doted on him from the beginning. And in the end, God knew James was just what we needed to complete our family.

Poor kid. We dragged him to soccer games and school plays and craft shows from the time he was a month old. We were definitely more relaxed with this late comer, and it showed in his easy disposition. He was easily entertained and entertaining to have around. And he really couldn’t get by with anything because, as parents, we’d learned a few tricks of our own via the antics of his big brothers.

Still, James has always exuded a certain confidence and seemed to know what he wanted and worked hard to achieve it. He’s earned a lot of honors through 4-H, FFA, high school, and in college and made us proud parents, but his greatest feat was in finding Allison. There’s no doubt they were made for each other, and three years ago it was our pleasure to be part of their fairy tale wedding (see picture).

Today, they’re the proud parents of two girls – Tempe and Scout – their Siberian huskies.

Max and I are blessed by all of our boys and their families. Sometimes it’s more than our hearts can hold, and this season of thanksgiving is a good time to ponder just how incredible the gift of parenthood is. And, of course, we’re especially grateful that we’ve lived to tell about it!

Thirty Days of Thanksgiving - Day Nine

2011-11-09T00:05:00.001-06:00

Day 9. The Letter I.

Today I’m thankful for Inspiration.

WRITER’S MYTH: If you just wait for inspiration, it will come, and the words will flow like molten lava onto the page, igniting the world with your brilliance.

Oh, if only that were so. The truth is writing is 90% perspiration and 10% inspiration. It’s hard work. And sometimes grueling. As nice as it would be, an author doesn’t have the luxury of waiting for inspiration to strike. The writing chair and keyboard await. Deadlines lurk. Books (and blog posts!) don’t write themselves. There are, however, some things that just by nature are inspiring or which I’ve found helpful to jumpstart my brain. Oddly enough, these ten things are also things which bring me joy and contentment.

Maui, June 2011

1. Books – Reading great novels not only satisfies my need to be drawn into fictitious story worlds, but also challenges me to be a better writer.

2. Music – Jazz, doo-wop, gospel, and golden oldies are regular choices for me. I can’t imagine a world without music.

3. Sunsets – There is nothing quite so breathtaking as a sunset on the prairie, especially the shifting colors as evening slips into night. The ones in Maui are pretty incredible too.

4. The smell of new rain – I never tire of this smell, and coupled with it, the patter of rain on the roof as I settle in with my computer to write plays its own kind of music.

5. Coffee – Oh sweet Sumatra, vivacious Verona, eloquent Espresso, friendly Folgers, capricious Columbian. You make my mornings brighter and my heart happy.

6. Laughter – Grandkid giggles. Belly laughing that makes tears run down my cheeks. The world needs more laughter.

7. Change of scenery – Weekend getaways. Exotic vacations. Visits with friends. All are inspiring in their own way.

8. Reading the inspirational stories of others – I’m a Guideposts reader and happy to be part of a new website that brings inspirational stories every day.

9. Prayer – A day bathed in prayer makes all the difference in my outlook and my writing output.

10. God’s Word – So many scriptures inspire me, but here’s one that helps me keep my focus as I’m writing: May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer. Psalm 19:14 (NIV)

I’m feeling inspired – how about you? Do you have any special places or rituals that help stir inspiration in you?

Thirty Days of Thanksgiving - Day Eight

2011-11-08T00:05:00.003-06:00

Day 8. The letter H.

Today I'm thankful for hard times. And hope.

Last weekend I had the opportunity to spend time with a group of writers. My heart came away full with learning new things, catching up with some of my favorite pals, and meeting new friends.

Over a shared stuffed pizza – Chicago style – one of my new friends told me how the last year had gone by in a blur. Her debut novel was set to release, but in the midst of preparing for that, she was blind-sided by a personal injury, prolonged medical treatment, and was then called to another state to help care for her mother in hospice. Her emotions were frayed, her supply of energy depleted. She’s coming out from a hard year, and as we talked, I couldn’t help but think of the valleys I’ve been through in my own life. Dark valleys where I didn’t know what tomorrow would bring and was almost afraid to wake up because I knew new challenges were nearly certain.

We’ve all had them. Family crises. Deaths of dear ones. Job upheaval. Serious illnesses. Redirecting our lives. And yet, during those times, even when I didn’t know what to pray, I’ve cried out for wisdom and strength and provision. And it’s only when I look back at the hard times that I see them for what they are – treasures that have made my life richer. They are the places in my road of life where I’ve learned the most about who I am and grown the most in my walk with God.

I know it’s a bit of a paradox to be thankful for hard times during this season of thanksgiving. The valleys of despair can seem endless and unbearable, but even when we aren't aware of his presence, God walks beside us. The valleys are rich and fertile, filled with streams of hope to water our weary hearts. It's a hope not only for tomorrow, but for all eternity. And that is worthy of celebration. Worthy of thanksgiving.

Thirty Days of Thanksgiving - Day Seven

2011-11-07T00:05:00.024-06:00

How do I love thee? Let me count the ways. Are grandkids the best thing since the hula hoop or what? And what a sense of humor God has! He gave us four sons, then bam! Five grandsons!

Ha. Ha. I’ve loved them everyone in turn. Perfection in miniature! Then, finally . . . FINALLY . . . a grandgirl! The first girl born on my side of the family in 52 years! Thankful, indeed.

It would be impossible to list all of the endearing, superior, divine qualities of my grandchildren – a problem I’m sure none of you other Mimis and Papas out there have. Let’s just say, I’m grateful and blessed.

Waving to Jeremy who doesn't live close enough to get into these family photos - we love you kiddo!

Thirty Days of Thanksgiving - Day Six

2011-11-06T00:05:00.002-06:00

Day 6. The letter F.

The holidays always make me thankful for the family God chose to give me—one where faith and love went hand in hand with learning the value of an education, hard work, and cherishing each other. Max and I have tried to instill those same values in our own family. Here are a few of my favorite family photos.

My dad's grandsons and great-grands.

A family vacation to Breckenridge

Thanksgiving in Tulsa

Same dinner - This is the VIP table!

Our traditional Christmas Eve in Guymon

Max's mom enjoying a holiday visit

More holiday fun with Max's mom

The annual photo of "the girls" - Best sisters in the world!

Family. Wow! I've been blessed! My apologies if you're a part of our family and didn't get your picture in here. Going through thousands of pictures has worn me out.

Do you get together with family on holidays? How about reunions? Vacation together? What are your family plans this Thanksgiving?

Thirty Days of Thanksgiving - Day Five

2011-11-05T00:05:00.002-06:00

Day 5. The letter E.

I could chose eclectic or éclairs or elephants to be thankful for today. I could, but I didn’t. The first thing that popped in my head was Ecclesiastes, a nifty little book right in the heart of the Old Testament. There is something so lasting, so anchoring in reading about the people in the days of old and knowing they endured the same temptations, the same hardships, and they made the same excuses and whines that we do today.

Ecclesiastes probably came to mind because it has two of my favorite passages in all of scripture. And I love that even though the author, Solomon, lead a less than perfect life, God granted him great wisdom. Allow me to share some of that wisdom with you today.

Ecclesiastes 3:
1 There is a time for everything,
and a season for every activity under the heavens:
2 a time to be born and a time to die,
a time to plant and a time to uproot,
3 a time to kill and a time to heal,
a time to tear down and a time to build,
4 a time to weep and a time to laugh,
a time to mourn and a time to dance,
5 a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing,
6 a time to search and a time to give up,
a time to keep and a time to throw away,
7 a time to tear and a time to mend,
a time to be silent and a time to speak,
8 a time to love and a time to hate,
a time for war and a time for peace.

Ecclesiastes 4:
9 Two are better than one,
because they have a good return for their labor:
10 If either of them falls down,
one can help the other up.
But pity anyone who falls
and has no one to help them up.
11 Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm.
But how can one keep warm alone?
12 Though one may be overpowered,
two can defend themselves.
A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.

I don’t think I can improve on anything that’s not already said in these precious passages. They’re a pretty good prescription for life. Reading these beloved words again during this season of Thanksgiving renews my spirit. I hope it does the same for you.

Thirty Days of Thanksgiving - Day Four

2011-11-04T00:05:00.002-06:00

Day 4. The Letter D.

The annual picture of Daddy and "the girls"

“In the game of pitch, you can shoot the moon with only an ace and a deuce – providing it’s the first hand of a new game.” This is the kind of wisdom I learned from Daddy – the object of today’s thirty days of gratitude. Home-spun truths with one foot in the real world and one in the legendary world of tall tales—a realm in which my dad holds the degree of “master spinner.”

My sisters and I weren’t thinking of tall tales, though, last February when Daddy had to take an unexpected helicopter ride to Amarillo following a minor heart attack during a stress test. As a matter of fact, the angiogram in Amarillo revealed major blockage that required a minimum of four bypasses. And the unspoken prognosis: At his age, anything could happen.

My two sisters and I got there as fast as we could, relieved when we found him stabilized. The surgeon, though, wanted to give his body time to recover from the two days of tests before she performed the bypasses. So we had a whole day to wait. No tests. No agenda. Just bed rest and monitoring in ICU.

Daddy was in high spirits—“fine as frog hair,” as he was fond of saying. Donna, Marsha, and I didn’t let on about our fears, either—the tangible reality that this might be the last day this side of heaven we had to spend with our dad. A dad who was definitely one-of-a-kind. When we were kids, he was just as comfortable combing our hair into pony tails as he was making us mow the grass or pull nails out of boards. He often loaded us up in his pick-up and took us off on horse-trading expeditions or a day of cherry picking in Granny’s orchard. He waited into the wee hours of night waiting for us to get home from band trips and didn’t mind telling us to “keep your noses clean and to the grindstone.”

All of those things and more riddled our thoughts as Daddy rested in the hospital bed, the blood-thinning heparin drip keeping him safe until they sawed his chest open and put him on the heart-lung machine so they could “fix” what they could. Daddy didn’t raise a trio of whiny, mopey girls, though. So after the morning routine, Marsha pulled out a deck of cards. Time for a game of pitch.


Playing Pitch in the Hospital

We positioned the bedside table, cranked up the head of Daddy’s bed and spent the day doing what he liked best – playing cards and telling stories. It didn’t take a lot of encouragement on our part to get him started, and we talked and laughed until tears ran down our cheeks. If it was to be his last day on this earth, we’d made the best of it—a day we could look back on without regret.

It wasn’t his last day, though. The repairs were made and he came through just fine. I won’t say the aftermath was pleasant—certainly not as much fun as four-handed pitch, but two weeks later we took Daddy home, and he continued the road to recovery. He’s back to restoring buggies, being head usher at church, and spinning more stories. My own gratitude overflows. How blessed I’ve been to have a dad who taught me about Jesus, who’s been an anchor and influence in my life, and who taught me that you can shoot the moon in a game of pitch with an ace and a deuce – providing it’s the first hand of a new game.

Sometimes it’s the little things. Sometimes the huge ones. Sometimes it’s hard to tell the difference. Here’s the truth, though. Next time we gather around the oak table in Daddy’s kitchen and the cards are shuffled, I’ll say a prayer of Thanksgiving. I might even try to shoot the moon.

Thirty Days of Thanksgiving - Day Three

2011-11-03T00:05:00.004-06:00

Day 3. The letter C.

Have I got a surprise for you today! But first – a little thanksgiving dance for my favorite “C” word – coffee!

Anyone who has known me for more than five minutes knows I LOVE coffee, the nectar of heaven. Thank you, Jesus, for that little burst of caffeine that gets me going in the morning, that keeps me percolating through the day, and is the perfect benediction to a great dinner with family or friends. AND a highly recommended accompaniment to any of the recipes in the just-released, greatly anticipated, first annual Novel Morsels: Your Favorite Authors Bringing Recipes to Life.

Isn’t this a tempting cover? This e-book is the brainchild of Nicole O’Dell, writer, radio host, and teen advocate. And now Cook Book Editor! Sixty-three Christian Fiction authors contributed to this collection of more than 120 recipes. Some are found between the covers of our books and have our character’s fingerprints on them. Some are from authors who cope with the rigors of writing by escaping into the kitchen. I can’t wait to try some of them myself, and I know you’ll love it, too.

Novel Morsels is available on Nicole’s site now at the low price of $2.99 and will soon be available for the Kindle, Nook, and iPad. HOWEVER . . . as a thank you to the faithful readers of this blog, I will send a *coupon code* to anyone who leaves a comment on this post for the next two weeks and you will get the cook book FREE! Zero dollars. Please include your contact information so I can send the code to your inbox.

Read the complete list of contributing authors here.

That's it. My surprise for you today. I’m thankful for writing friends who journey with me, love and support one another, and do fun things like putting together a cook book. A special thanks to Nicole O’Dell for the magic that pulled it all together. All the credit is hers. Enjoy!

So, what is it? Coffee, tea, or ??? Remember - comment for the coupon code!

Thirty Days of Thanksgiving - Day Two

2011-11-01T23:36:00.000-06:00

Day Two. The letter B.

Brett, happy at sea

As fate would have it, on the second day of thankfulness, our second-born son’s name appears in the alphabet. Brett. He’s one-half of a matched set – twins born nineteen months after our first son. Can you say harried mom? Scott, his other half will have to wait until his turn in the alphabet, for today I’m grateful for Brett.

Oh, how wondrous are the ways of the Lord. And uniquely made is every part of his creation. Brett, from an early age, had a tender heart for critters (rabbits, hamsters, pups, cats) and set out to ask not why, but how? Always curious, he explored, took things apart (buckets of wires, cords, springs, and the makings of clocks that would never tick again). He wanted to know how things worked and was happier on a tractor than in an English or Math class. Little did we know that the chef hat, Happy Face Pots and Pans and Coast Guard Legos from his childhood were prophetic of the life he would someday lead.

Brett and Cindy

At nineteen, Brett joined the US Coast Guard, became a cook, and has traveled the world for a decade and a half. Russia, China, Indonesia, Panama, Costa Rica, Jordan, Bahrain, and countless other ports-of-call—we’ve been there vicariously through Brett and his travels.

And when he’s stateside with his wife, Cindy, and stepson, Jeremy, we enjoy hearing about his ventures both abroad and at home where he still has a penchant for God’s creatures—four pups that keep Cindy company while he sails the world.

For Brett and all of the men and women who serve our country, I’m grateful. Thank you. You make me proud to be an American. And a mom.

Thirty Days of Thanksgiving - Day One

2011-11-01T00:05:00.004-06:00

Today I'm starting something new here at the Cafe - Thirty days of being thankful. If you’re anything like me, you’re thankful every day for God’s gifts and His blessings. Mine tend to be generic more often than not, so as I’ve seen others do, I’m devoting November – the month of Thanksgiving – to being intentionally thankful every day. For small things and those that are unspeakably grand.

To keep things straight – and because it’s the sort of thing I would do – I’ll be going through the alphabet for the first twenty-six days. Then who knows? The last four days may be a surprise even to me as I keep my heart open to abundant gratitude. Join me, okay?

Day One. The letter A.

Andy and Amy with the boys

Appropriately on the first day, I’m thankful for my firstborn child – Andrew – always Andy to us. Imaginative, creative, and the one who would test my mettle in more ways than I can count (teen-age years anyone?). But thirty-seven years ago, when the gravity of having a little person who was totally dependent on his inept parents dawned on me, I thought all the answers could be found in a book. I found out soon enough the parenting experts hadn’t met Andy.

Enter: the delight of raising a child who asked why of everything, had an imaginary friend named Larry (whose mother let him do all the things I wouldn’t), could spell encyclopedia in the first grade, invented his own utopia and called it Andy-Land, and gave us two amazing grandsons as a reward for our feeble efforts at raising him. His tears when he held his first-born brought full-circle the joy and thankfulness that I’ve had in being Andy’s mom – both then and now.

More adventures in parenting waited in the wings. Journey with me along the road of gratitude this month.
Have you had any surprises as a parent? What are you thankful for today?

Pulpwood Queens Girlfriend Weekend Coming in January

2011-10-24T13:00:00.000-05:00

Today I'm the guest blogger on The Pulpwood Queens Blog. With over 500 chapters, this bookclub rocks! And nothing is more fun than spending a weekend with readers. Check out the details and schedule for Girlfriend Weekend - January 12 - 15, 2012.


2011 Author Dinner

Inspire a Fire Update

2011-10-23T11:46:00.000-05:00

Inspire a Fire has been up and running several weeks now. I hope you've been able to read some of the inspirational posts there. Some have made me cry, others have given me goosebumps, all have given me determination to be a better person, to pursue with greater fervor my walk with Christ. I'm really glad for the small part I've had in bringing a couple of those stories to readers.

The truth is, I'm blessed by knowing some incredible people, people who've touched me and been great examples of service, of hope, of encouragement. So those are the people I've asked in this first month to share their stories.

Elsie Cowan is the mother-in-law of one of my best friends. She's the epitome of giving to others. I've never seen her when she didn't have a smile on her face. If you missed it, here's the story about making quilts for Boys Ranch - Quilted With Love.

Miranda and Jesse Lewis live in a small town outside Oklahoma City. We've known Jesse and his family for years and years, though, and we grieved along with others about the loss of their home in a tornado last May. Miranda tells of her experience in What The Wind Blew In.

Inspiring stories everyday. That's what our goal is at Inspire a Fire.

We believe one person has the power to make a huge difference in the world and eternity. Sometimes it only takes one match, one spark, to ignite an inferno of change.

Hope you'll stop by and be inspired, too!

Wonderland Creek by Lynn Austin on CFBA

2011-10-20T20:56:00.000-05:00

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Wonderland Creek Bethany House (October 1, 2011) by Lynn Austin

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

For many years, Lynn Austin nurtured a desire to write but frequent travels and the demands of her growing family postponed her career. When her husband's work took Lynn to Bogota, Colombia, for two years, she used the B.A. she'd earned at Southern Connecticut State University to become a teacher. After returning to the U.S., the Austins moved to Anderson, Indiana, Thunder Bay, Ontario, and later to Winnipeg, Manitoba.

It was during the long Canadian winters at home with her children that Lynn made progress on her dream to write, carving out a few hours of writing time each day while her children napped. Lynn credits her early experience of learning to write amid the chaos of family life for her ability to be a productive writer while making sure her family remains her top priority.

Extended family is also very important to Austin, and it was a lively discussion between Lynn, her mother, grandmother (age 98), and daughter concerning the change in women's roles through the generations that sparked the inspiration for her novel Eve's Daughters.

Along with reading, two of Lynn's lifelong passions are history and archaeology. While researching her Biblical fiction series, Chronicles of the Kings, these two interests led her to pursue graduate studies in Biblical Backgrounds and Archaeology through Southwestern Theological Seminary. She and her son traveled to Israel during the summer of 1989 to take part in an archaeological dig at the ancient city of Timnah. This experience contributed to the inspiration for her novel Wings of Refuge.

Lynn resigned from teaching to write full-time in 1992. Since then she has published twelve novels. Five of her historical novels have won Christy Awards in 2002, 2003, 2004, 2008, and 2009 for excellence in Christian Fiction. And two of her inspirational fiction books were chosen by Library Journal for their top picks in 2003, and 2005. One of Lynn's novels has been made into a movie for the Hallmark Channel, starring actress Shirley Jones. Ms Jones received a 2006 Emmy Award nomination for her portrayal of Aunt Batty in the film.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Alice Grace Ripley lives in a dream world, her nose stuck in a book. But happily-ever-after life she's planned on suddenly falls apart when her boyfriend, Gordon, breaks up with her, accusing her of living in a world of fiction instead of the real world. Then to top it off, Alice loses her beloved job at the library because of cutbacks due to the Great Depression.

Fleeing small-town gossip, Alice heads to the mountains of eastern Kentucky to deliver five boxes of donated books to the library in the tiny coal-mining village of Acorn. Dropped off by her relatives, Alice volunteers to stay for two weeks to help the librarian, Leslie McDougal.

But the librarian turns out to be far different than she anticipated--not to mention the four lady librarians who travel to the remote homes to deliver the much-desired books. While Alice is trapped in Acorn against her will, she soon finds that real-life adventure and myster--and especially romance--are far better than her humble dreams could have imagined.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Wonderland Creek, go HERE.

Love on the Line by Deeanne Gist on CFBA

2011-10-17T16:22:00.000-05:00

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Love on the Line Bethany House (October 1, 2011) by Deeanne Gist

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

After a short career in elementary education, Deeanne Gist retired to raise her four children. Over the course of the next fifteen years, she ran a home accessory and antique business, became a member of the press, wrote freelance journalism for national publications such as People, Parents, Parenting, Family Fun, Houston Chronicle and Orlando Sentinel, and acted as CFO for her husband’s small engineering firm--all from the comforts of home.

Squeezed betwixt-and-between all this, she read romance novels by the truckload and even wrote a couple of her own. While those unpublished manuscripts rested on the shelf, she founded a publishing corporation for the purpose of developing, producing and marketing products that would reinforce family values, teach children responsibility and provide character building activities.

After a few short months of running her publishing company, Gist quickly discovered being a "corporate executive" was not where her gifts and talents lie. In answer to Gist’s fervent prayers, God sent a mainstream publisher to her door who licensed her parenting I Did It!® product line and committed to publish the next generation of her system, thus freeing Gist to return to her writing.

Eight months later, she sold A Bride Most Begrudging to Bethany House Publishers. Since that debut, her very original, very fun romances have rocketed up the bestseller lists and captured readers everywhere. Add to this two consecutive Christy Awards, three RITA nominations, rave reviews, and a growing loyal fan base, and you’ve got one recipe for success.

Her latest releases, Beguiled, Maid To Match, and Love on the Line are now available.

Gist lives in Texas with her husband of twenty-eight years and their border collie. They have four grown children. Click here to find out the most up-to-the-minute news about Dee.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Rural switchboard operator Georgie Gail is proud of her independence in a man's world ... which makes it twice as vexing when the telephone company sends a man to look over her shoulder.

Dashing Luke Palmer is more than he appears though. He's a Texas Ranger working undercover to infiltrate a notorious gang of train robbers. Repairing telephones and tangling with this tempestuous woman is the last thing he wants to do. But when his stakeout puts Georgie in peril, he realizes more than his job is on the line.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Love on the Line, go HERE.

Reclaiming Lily by Patti Lacy on CFBA

2011-10-14T08:30:00.001-05:00

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Reclaiming Lily Bethany House (October 1, 2011) by Patti Lacy

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Patti Lacy, Baylor graduate, taught community college humanities until God called her to span seas and secrets in her novels, An Irishwoman's Tale and What the Bayou Saw.

The secrets women keep and why they keep them continue to enliven Patti's gray matter. A third book, The Rhythm of Secrets, released in January of 2011. Patti's, Reclaiming Lily, documents a tug-of-war between a Harvard-educated doctor and an American pastor and his wife for a precious child and explores adoption issues, China's "One Child" policy, and both Christian and secular views of sacrifice.

Patti also facilitates writing seminars in schools, libraries, and at conferences and has been called to present her testimony, "All the Broken Pieces," at women's retreats. She also leads a Beth Moore Bible study at her beloved Grace Church and has had a blast planning the September 2009 wedding of her firstborn, Sarah.

Patti and her husband Alan, an Illinois State faculty member, live in Normal with their handsome son Thomas, who attends Heartland Community College. On sunny evenings, you can catch the three strolling the streets of Normal with their dog Laura, whom they've dubbed a "Worchestershire Terrier" for her "little dab of this breed, a little dab of that breed."

ABOUT THE BOOK

A storm the size of Texas brews when Gloria Powell and Kai Chang meet in a Dallas hotel. They have come to discuss the future of Lily, the daughter Gloria adopted from China and the sister Kai hopes to reclaim. Kai is a doctor who had to give up her little sister during the Cultural Revolution and has since discovered that an inherited genetic defect may be waiting to fatally strike Lily.

Gloria's relationship with her daughter is tattered and strained, and the arrival of Kai, despite the woman's apparent good intentions, makes Gloria fearful. Gloria longs to restore her relationship with Lily, but in the wake of this potentially devastating diagnosis, is Kai an answer to prayer...or will her arrival force Gloria to sacrifice more than she ever imagined?

If you would like to read the first chapter of reclaiming Lily, go HERE.

MY ENDORSEMENT: I was thrilled to be asked to read this book for endorsement. It makes me feel smart to know that I read it before the masses. Here's what I wrote then:

The bonds of maternal love and whispered promises are held to a flame and tested in this redemptive story of sacrifice. Patti Lacy’s vibrant prose and endearing characters will capture your heart. Bravo!

Enjoy!

An Evening at the Harwelden

2011-10-13T14:37:00.000-05:00

The Harwelden mansion is home to the Tulsa Arts and Humanities Council and is lovely. Rich wood and great slabs of stone in this Collegiate Gothic-English Tudor home speak in hushed tones of a grand era. Indeed, the home is located on the famed Black Gold Row among rolling hills, lush greenery, and overlooks the Arkansas River. It's one of the popular spots for literary and music events in Tulsa.


Local Authors with Pianist for the evening

This year, the Oklahoma Center for Poets and Writers chose Anna Quindlen, Pulitzer prize-winning writer, as the Tulsa Reads author for her work as a columnist, essayist, and novelist. She made a recent trip to Tulsa for several events. Sadly, I was out of town, but was honored to be asked to participate in an event where local authors responded to Anna's works. I read a selection from Anna's 1998 novel, Black and Blue, and then read a selection from my newest novel, Broken Wings.

One of the more interesting things that I learned was that Anna didn't set out to write a story about domestic abuse, but rather to live inside her "Frannie" character for a time and just tell her story. This resonated with me at a deep level. I didn't really want to write about the ugliness of abuse, either, but through the eyes of two unlikely friends in Broken Wings, I was honor bound to tell the truth of their stories - what connected Mitzi Steiner and Brooke Woodson. In doing so, I was also compelled to offer hope to those whose lives are tarnished by abuse and Alzheimer's.

This is what I shared with the audience at the Harwelden on the most gentle of evenings. Wonderful time spent with friends and authors. A little slice of heaven on earth.

Layton Isaacs, the coordinator of the event, had this to say in her examiner.com article. Thanks, Layton! And thank you, Tulsa, for being a city that supports the arts. I'm honored. I'm blessed.

A Wedding Invitation by Alice Wisler on CFBA

2011-10-11T21:17:00.000-05:00

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing A Wedding Invitation Bethany House (October 1, 2011) by Alice Wisler

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Alice was born in Osaka, Japan in the sixties. Her parents were Presbyterian career missionaries. As a young child, Alice loved to walk down to the local stationer's store to buy notebooks, pencils and scented erasers. In her room, she created stories. The desire to be a published famous author has never left her. Well, two out of three isn't bad. She's the author of Rain Song, How Sweet It Is, Hatteras Girl and A Wedding Invitation (all published by Bethany House).

Alice went to Eastern Mennonite University after graduating from Canadian Academy, an international high school in Kobe, Japan. She majored in social work and has worked across the U.S. in that field. She taught ESL (English as a Second Language) in Japan and at a refugee camp in the Philippines. She also studied Spanish at a language institute in San Jose, Costa Rica.

She has four children--Rachel, Daniel, Benjamin and Elizabeth. Daniel died on 2/2/97 from cancer treatments at the age of four. Since then, Alice founded Daniel's House Publications in her son's memory. This organization reaches out to others who have also lost a child to death. In 2000 and 2003, Alice compiled recipes and memories of children across the world to publish two memorial cookbooks, Slices of Sunlight and Down the Cereal Aisle.

ABOUT THE BOOK

STARDUST ~ Coming in May, 2012

2011-10-09T22:42:00.000-05:00

Thrilled to share with you at last ~ my next novel, coming in May, 2012.

STARDUST: A Novel

Shortly after burying her unfaithful husband, Georgia Peyton unexpectedly inherits the derelict Stardust motel from a distant relative. Despite doubts from the community and the aunt who raised her, she is determined to breathe new life into it. But the guests who arrive aren't what Georgia expects: Her gin-loving mother-in-law; her dead husband's mistress; an attractive but down-on-his-luck drifter who's tired of the endless road; and an aging Vaudeville entertainer with a disturbing link to Georgia's past.

Can Georgia find the courage to forgive those who've betrayed her, the grace to shelter those who need her, and the moxie to face the future? And will her dream of a new life under the flickering neon of the STARDUST ever come true?

Here are a couple of the early endorsements:

"A reverence for the past and a keen eye for interesting characters make Stardust as bright and magical as a twinkling neon sign on a dark, lonely two-lane. You'll love the journey as much as the final destination. Another winner from an author with a uniquely beautiful talent!" (Lisa Wingate, National Bestselling and Award-winning Author of Dandelion Summer and Blue Moon Bay)

"Carla Stewart is one of the best at slicing out a piece of Americana and serving it to the reader in a delicious story. STARDUST is a smooth, inviting, well told story that will stick with you long after you read the last line and close the book. A worthy read." (Rachel Hauck, award winning author of Dining with Joy)

This was a fun book to write, although I didn't whip it out as fast as I would've liked. As you all know, life intervenes, and during the months when I was writing, a lot was going on. Somehow it all came together just in time. And I can't say enough about the talented, creative cover art team at FaithWords. It was love at first sight when I got my first glimpse of this one. You'll hear more in coming months about the writing and the setting, but for now, another book is in the embryo, hankering to be written stage, AND it's on a deadline, so I'll be carving out some writing time the next few months.

Have I mentioned that I LOVE this writing thing? And for all of you - I cherish your support, your cheering from the sidelines, and hearing from you. We're in this together!

And with that said, perhaps I should ask - what would YOU like for me to write a story about? Any burning topics that fall in the "nostalgic" realm? I'd love to hear your ideas.

Heiress by Susan May Warren - FABULOUS GIVEAWAY

2011-10-02T22:55:00.001-05:00

About the book: Heiress

They can buy anything they want—fame, power, beauty, even loyalty.

But they can’t buy love.

The beautiful and wealthy heiress daughters of August Price can buy everything their hearts desire. But what if their desire is to be loved, without an enormous price tag attached? When one sister betrays another for the sake of love, will she find happiness? And what happens when the other sets out across the still untamed frontier to find it—will she discover she’s left it behind in the glamorous world of the New York gilded society? What price will each woman pay for being an heiress?

Set in the opulent world of the Gilded Age, two women discover that being an heiress just might cost them everything they love.

Read an excerpt here.

About Susan: Susan May Warren is an award-winning, best-selling author of over twenty-five novels, many of which have won the Inspirational Readers Choice Award, the ACFW Book of the Year award, the Rita Award, and have been Christy finalists. After serving as a missionary for eight years in Russia, Susan returned home to a small town on Minnesota’s beautiful Lake Superior shore where she, her four children, and her husband are active in their local church.

Susan's larger than life characters and layered plots have won her acclaim with readers and reviewers alike. A seasoned women’s events and retreats speaker, she’s a popular writing teacher at conferences around the nation and the author of the beginning writer’s workbook: From the Inside-Out: discover, create and publish the novel in you!. She is also the founder of www.MyBookTherapy.com, a story-crafting service that helps authors discover their voice.

Susan makes her home in northern Minnesota, where she is busy cheering on her two sons in football, and her daughter in local theater productions (and desperately missing her college-age son!)

Susan May Warren is thrilled to announce the release of her latest historical book, Heiress!

Find out what the reviewers are saying here!

Heiress, a richly complex historical romance, is the first in Susan's three book Daughters of Fortune series. In honor of Heiress’ debut, Susan is hosting a FABULOUS Gilded Age Giveaway and giving away an opulent prize pack fit for an heiress!

One grand prize winner will receive:

A $100 gift certificate to ModCloth.com
A sleek silver iPod™ Shuffle
A beautiful strand of Pearls
Titanic DVD
Speakeasy Compilation Music CD from Starbucks™
Heiress by Susan May Warren

Click one of the icons below to enter. But do so soon - this giveaway ends 10/5/11. The winner will be announced Thursday, October 6 on Susan’s blog.

Inspire a Fire Website goes LIVE today

2011-10-01T10:22:00.000-05:00

Today's the day! Months have gone into planning, praying, and assembling a team to bring you Inspire a Fire - a website that will tug at your heartstrings as you read stories about real people who've had tremendous struggles or feel compelled to step out into the world and make a difference.

We believe one person has the power to make a huge difference in the world and eternity. Sometimes it only takes one match, one spark, to ignite an inferno of change.

Brought to you by the creators of Novel Rocket (formerly Novel Journey), an entire team has pulled together for this endeavor. I'm excited about the possibilities and being a part. I will post on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month.

We'd love for you to check us out now. And please, click on the Submissions tab at the very top if you know someone in your community who has a great story or is doing something extraordinary. And go to the Make a Difference tab to see how can be involved in your own community.

We're very excited about this website and hope to see you there! Please stop by and leave a comment.

Dangerous Mercy by Kathy Herman on CFBA

2011-09-30T12:02:00.001-05:00

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Dangerous Mercy David C. Cook (October 1, 2011) by Kathy Herman

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Suspense novelist Kathy Herman is very much at home in the Christian book industry, having worked five years on staff at the Christian Booksellers Association (CBA) in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and eleven years at Better Books Christian Center in Tyler, Texas, as product buyer/manager for the children’s department, and eventually as director of human resources.

She has conducted numerous educational seminars on children’s books at CBA Conventions in the U.S. and Canada, served a preliminary judge for the Gold Medallion Book Awards of the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association , and worked as an independent product/marketing consultant to the CBA market.

Since her first novel, Tested by Fire, debuted in 2001 as a CBA national bestseller, she's added sixteen more titles to her credit, including four bestsellers: All Things Hidden, The Real Enemy, The Last Word, and The Right Call.

Kathy's husband Paul is her manager and most ardent supporter, and the former manager of the LifeWay Christian Store in Tyler, Texas. They have three grown children, five almost-perfect grandchildren, a cat named Samantha. They enjoy cruising, deep sea fishing, and birdwatching—sometimes incorporating these hobbies into one big adventure.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. —Matthew 5:7

When eighty-five-year-old Adele Woodmore moves to Les Barbes to be near the Broussards—and her namesake, their daughter—she wants nothing more than a comfortable, quiet life. Employing men from Father Vince’s halfway house for the homeless to do odd jobs and landscaping, she delights in the casual conversation she has with them, the fledgling friendships, and the idea that she is helping them get back on their feet.

A series of murders in Les Barbes has cast a pall over the town and, in fact, one of Adele’s handymen becomes a person of interest to the police. But Adele cares for these young men, she knows them, and continues to show them kindness in spite of her friends’ concern. And then one day a murderer walks through Adele’s defenses, sits down at her kitchen table...and they begin to talk...

If you would like to read the first chapter of Dangerous Mercy, go HERE.

ACFW Conference, Part II, Genesis Winners

2011-09-29T23:00:00.001-05:00

St. Louis, 2011 ACFW Conference

It's always a little difficult for me to encapsulate what the ACFW conference is all about. Yes, it's a professional organization dedicated to benefit the members by instructing, providing services and a community of like-minded people - people who want to write books with an eye toward publication. It does all that, and every year it expands not only in numbers but also in the scope of what it does. And every September we stream in from all over the globe to laugh, learn, and overdose on Starbucks.

ACFW has become an extension of who I am - a believer who writes books that I hope inspire and instill hope in others. ACFW is part of me, and after my sixth conference, I know that even if I never went to another one, the friends I've made along the way will be part of my life as long as I draw breath. We invest time, energy, and large doses of laughter and encouragement in one another. I've benefited not only from the rich learning environment, but also feasted on some of the best fiction in today's market.

Mary DeMuth (I owe her the world) and D'Ann Mateer

Many people befriended and encouraged me before I had an agent. Or a contract. Or any clue of what I was doing. They still do. Some have walked the pre-published path with me and have become soul mates, cheerleaders, advisers, prodders, and encouragers. They dole out the bitter with the sweet and share in the joy and the tears. And I return the favor :-)) That's just how it works. We give back because others have given so freely to us. And for most of us, ACFW has had a large part in that.

Since I started by going backwards with these posts from this year's conference, I'll continue. Today, the Genesis winners. This is a contest for unpublished writers. It's very competitive and is considered one of the top contests in the world of Christian publishing. Editors and agents pay attention to the finalists and the winners. Other writers strive to make the cut every year, and it wouldn't surprise me to see some of these author's names on the cover of a book in the next year or two.

Camille Eide ~ Genesis Winner ~ Friend Extraordinaire

That said, I'm very proud of two special people on this list. Camille Eide, my critique partner who has tirelessly been the "iron that sharpens iron" for me the past two years was in the winner's circle. I'm not sure who was happier - her or me. She's talented, dedicated, and deserving. Way to go, Camille!

Matt Jones, the president of our local ACFW group, also won his category. Sadly, he wasn't there to accept the honor, but we brought the beautiful plaque home for him and are very proud just the same! Not only is he a great writer, but also very savvy in graphics and website development.

Genesis winners and their categories:

Contemporary Fiction
Katy Pistole

Contemporary Romance
Mary Curry

Historical Fiction
Johnnie Alexander Donley

Historical Romance
Sarah Ladd

Mystery/Suspense/Thriller
Dianna T. Benson

Romantic Suspense
Renee Ann Smith

Speculative Fiction
Matt Jones

Women’s Fiction
Camille Eide

Young Adult
Nicole Quigley

Congrats to all the winners!

ACFW Conference, Part I, Carol Award Winners

2011-09-26T23:05:00.000-05:00

I'm just back from the annual ACFW Conference and will be sharing this week some of the highlights and lists of winners. I'm still getting organized so to get the wheels spinning, let's start off with the last event of the conference - the Awards Gala and the Carol Award Winners. I must admit I'm partial to some of the people on this list because they're dear friends, but they are all deserving - the best of the best!

A special shout out, though, to Hillary Manton Lodge who was a finalist in the Long Contemporary Romance category. Her Amish romance, Plain Jayne, didn't take home the trophy, but Hillary's an amazing, sharp-witted writer who has a bright future, and I'm sure one day she'll be in the winner's circle.

Hillary and Danny Lodge

Hillary with her editor, Kim Moore (Harvest House)

Hillary and me with our agent, Sandra Bishop

Now for that list of winners:

Debut Author

Crossing Oceans by Gina Holmes (Tyndale Publishers - Kathryn Olson, editor)

Long Contemporary

Never Say Never by Lisa Wingate (Bethany House Publishers, a division of Baker Publishing Group - Dave Long, editor)

Long Contemporary Romance

Plain Paradise by Beth Wiseman (Thomas Nelson - Natalie Hanemann, editor)

Long Historical

Sons of Thunder by Susan May Warren (Summerside Press - Susan Downs, editor)

Long Historical Romance

Love Finds You in Homestead Iowa by Melanie Dobson (Summerside Press - Rachel Meisel/Connie Troyer, editors)

Mystery

The Camera Never Lies by Elizabeth Goddard (Barbour Publishing - Rebecca Germany, editor)

Novella

A Trusting Heart by Carrie Turansky (Barbour Publishing - Rebecca Germany, editor)

Romantic Suspense

The Silent Order by Melanie Dobson (Summerside Press - Rachel Meisel/Susan Downs/Ellen Tarver, editors)

Short Contemporary

A Father for Zach by Irene Hannon (Love Inspired - Melissa Endlich, editor)

Short Contemporary Suspense

Night Prey by Sharon Dunn (Love Inspired Suspense - Emily Rodmell, editor)

Short Historical

Her Healing Ways by Lyn Cote (Love Inspired Historical - Tina James, editor)

Speculative Fiction

König’s Fire by Marc Schooley (Marcher Lord Press - Jeff Gerke, editor)

Suspense/Thriller

Predator by Terri Blackstock (Zondervan - Sue Brower/Dave Lambert, editors)

Women’s Fiction

Beaded Hope by Cathy Liggett (Tyndale Publishers - Jan Stob/Lorie Popp, editors)

Young Adult

Anything But Normal by Melody Carlson (Revell Books, a division of Baker Publishing Group - Lonnie Hull Dupont, editor)

Do you see any of your favorites here?

Here's to Friends by Melody Carlson on CFBA

2011-09-20T23:00:00.001-05:00

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Here’s to Friends David C. Cook (September 1, 2011) by Melody Carlson

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Over the years, Melody Carlson has worn many hats, from pre-school teacher to youth counselor to political activist to senior editor. But most of all, she loves to write! Currently she freelances from her home. In the past eight years, she has published over ninety books for children, teens, and adults--with sales totaling more than two million and many titles appearing on the ECPA Bestsellers List. Several of her books have been finalists for, and winners of, various writing awards. And her "Diary of a Teenage Girl" series has received great reviews and a large box of fan mail

She has two grown sons and lives in Central Oregon with her husband and chocolate lab retriever. They enjoy skiing, hiking, gardening, camping and biking in the beautiful Cascade Mountains.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Once upon a time in a little town on the Oregon coast lived four Lindas—all in the same first-grade classroom. So they decided to go by their middle names. And form a club. And be friends forever.

Decades later, they're all back home in Clifden and reinventing their lives, but the holidays bring a whole new set of challenges. Abby’s new B&B is getting bad reviews and husband Paul is acting strange. Still grieving for her mom, Caroline is remodeling the family home, but boyfriend Mitch keeps pressuring her to go away with him. Artist Marley, distracted by a friend's family drama (and a touch of jealousy), can't find her creative groove. And Janie’s drug-addicted daughter has just appeared up on her doorstep! When a long-planned New Year's cruise turns into a bumpy ride, they learn once again that, in your fifties, friends aren’t just for fun—they're a necessity!

If you would like to read the first chapter of Here’s to Friends, go HERE.

W I N N E R S !

2011-09-20T18:23:00.000-05:00

Congrats to the winners of recent giveaways here at the Cafe!

Aly Logan is the winner of Sarah Sundin's Blue Skies Tomorrow.

Sandee61 is the winner of Anne Mateer's Wings of a Dream.

Enjoy!

I'm off to the American Christian Fiction Writers Conference in St. Louis this week. I'll come back with the smell of the Mississippi clinging to my clothes and be a whole lot richer in spirit for having been with 700 of the smartest, nicest, most talented people in America - See you next week!

WINGS OF A DREAM by Anne Mateer - Review and Giveaway

2011-09-12T09:46:00.000-05:00

Please welcome my friend, Anne Mateer, today. I'm delighted with her first book and have shared my review at the end of this post. There you'll find a sweet surprise as well.

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Wings of A Dream Bethany House (September 1, 2011) by Anne Mateer

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

While I have been writing for what feels like my whole life, I began seriously studying the craft in 2000. Since then I have completed five novels, had several pieces published in local periodicals, attended six writing conferences and managed to final in ACFW's Genesis contest in 2006, 2008, and 2009. My first historical novel, Wings of a Dream, will be released in September 2011, with another historical novel to follow in 2012. But writing is only a piece of my life.

I am mostly just a woman trying to live her life in a manner pleasing to the Lord. That involves being a wife to Jeff and a mother to my three teenagers--neither role coming easily but both roles stretching me, requiring me to press in closer to Jesus. And because of this, Jesus has taken an insecure, fearful, sometimes angry girl and is turning her into a more trusting, peaceful, grace-filled woman. At least some of the time. There is still such a long way to go!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Rebekah Hendricks dreams of a life far beyond her family's farm in Oklahoma, and when dashing aviator Arthur Samson promised adventure in the big city, she is quick to believe he's the man she's meant to marry. While she waits for the Great War to end and Arthur to return to her so they can pursue all their plans, her mother's sister falls ill. Rebekah seizes the opportunity to travel to Texas to care for Aunt Adabelle, seeing this chance to be closer to Arthur's training camp as God's approval of her plans.

But the Spanish flue epidemic changes everything. Faced with her aunt's death, Arthur's indecisiveness, and four children who have no one else to care for them, Rebekah is torn between the desire to escape the type of life she's always led and the unexpected love that just might change the dream of her heart.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Wings of A Dream, go HERE.

MY REVIEW:

In Wings of a Dream, Rebekah Hendricks, a small-town Oklahoma girl, dreams of an adventurous life . . . and escaping from her controlling mother. When she’s called to Texas to care for an ailing aunt, she’s certain that God has granted her desire and that adventure is just around the corner. Set at the end of WWI against the backdrop of the Spanish flu epidemic, debut author Anne Mateer, gently guides the reader through one surprising twist after another. It reminded me of the old adage to be careful what you pray for . . . you just might get it.

Anne did a great job of keeping me guessing on which of the three possible heroes Rebekah would choose—the handsome pilot whose promises she wants to believe, the sheriff who can’t stop “dropping in” for a visit, or the rather distant father of four children who need a mother. There’s a lot at stake in this book, and I think you’ll be swept away with this warm, engaging story. I know I was.

Intrigued? Have you heard of the Spanish Flu? Please leave a comment with your contact information to be entered in a drawing for this book. I'll draw for the winner on Monday, Sept. 19.

Disclosure: This book was provided by the publisher for my honest review. Void where prohibited. Chances of winning dependent on number of entries.

BLUE SKIES TOMORROW by Sarah Sundin - PART 2

2011-09-08T00:01:00.002-05:00

Welcome Back! This is Day 2 of the blog tour for Sarah Sundin, celebrating the release of the third installment of her Wings of Glory Series - BLUE SKIES TOMORROW. If you're just joining us, please visit yesterday's post for the special giveaway. Hurry, though, as the Grand Prize contest ends this Saturday!

If you're a regular visitor to my blog, you will know how much I admire Sarah's work and am fortunate to have her as a friend. We met at Mount Hermon in California several years ago and had the distinction of being "debut" authors together last year. Enough about that. Please read to the end - I have a special surprise for one lucky reader.

MY REVIEW of BLUE SKIES TOMORROW:

Blue Skies Tomorrow is a stunning conclusion to Sarah Sundin’s Wings of Glory Series. Lt. Raymond Novak steps to the forefront in this one, but unlike his hero brothers, he really wants only to be a pastor and feels his stateside job as a flight training officer doesn’t measure up to the sacrifice and courage of those who’ve gone into combat. A job change that he views as a demotion brings Ray back to his home area in California. There he reconnects with a childhood friend, Helen Carlisle, who is now widowed and has a small child. As a romance begins to kindle, Helen confesses a dark secret to Ray, and in a panic, tells him she never wants to see him again. Defeated even in love, Ray volunteers for flight duty in England.

What I love about Sarah’s books is that her characters are flawed or have great obstacles to overcome, but falling in love doesn’t erase those problems and often highlights them. She brings her characters through the fire of their shortcomings, and as the romance develops, so does trust, accountability, and even being willing to let go of the other person if it benefits him or her more. Ray and Helen’s story was, for me, the most heart wrenching in the Wings of Glory Series. Helen’s character as a childhood polio victim and then a victim of another kind as an adult had me hoping desperately she would find courage and happiness. The ending tied all the stories together beautifully. Please don’t miss out on this great series.

Now for the surprise. In the comments section, tell me your favorite genre and favorite setting for a book, past or present. Also, you'll need to leave your contact information so I can notify the winner. At noon on Sept 15, I will draw for the winner of Blue Skies Tomorrow. Chat away!

Disclosure: This book was provided by the publisher for my honest review. Void where prohibited. Chances of winning dependent on number of entries.

BLUE SKIES TOMORROW by Sarah Sundin - Kindle Giveaway

2011-09-07T00:01:00.005-05:00

Special two-day post: Today, the blog tour giveaway information! Contest entries must be in by this SATURDAY, Sept. 10. Hurry. Hurry.

Tomorrow, my review PLUS my giveaway of Sarah's book.

To celebrate the release of Blue Skies Tomorrow, the final installment of the Wings of Glory series, Sarah is giving one lucky winner A Vintage Kindle Prize Package!

ABOUT SARAH: Sarah Sundin received the 2011 Writer of the Year Award from the Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference, and her second novel A Memory Between Us is a finalist for an Inspirational Readers' Choice Award. Her stories are inspired by her great-uncle who flew with the U.S. Eighth Air Force in England during World War II.

Sarah lives in California with her husband and three children. Visit with Sarah online at www.sarahsundin.com.

ABOUT THE BOOK: Lt. Raymond Novak prefers the pulpit to the cockpit, but at least his stateside job training B-17 pilots allows him the luxury of a personal life. As he courts Helen Carlisle, a young war widow and mother who conceals her pain under a frenzy of volunteer work, the sparks of their romance set a fire that flings them both into peril. After Ray leaves to fly a combat mission at the peak of the air war over Europe, Helen takes a job in a dangerous munitions yard and confronts an even graver menace in her own home. Will they find the courage to face their challenges? And can their young love survive until blue skies return?

Read what the reviewers are saying here.

One winner will receive:

* Kindle with Wi-Fi

* Handmade vintage apron for you and a friend (see a photo here)

* Blue Skies Tomorrow (for Kindle)

To enter just click one of the icons below. But, hurry, giveaway ends on 9/10. Winner will be announced on 9/12 at Sarah Sundin's blog. Details and official rules can be found when entering the contest.

Website Woes

2011-08-25T16:14:00.000-05:00

Just a note for you, dear readers. . . If you've tried to visit my website recently, you've noticed that it is down. I hope to have it reinstated or revamped very soon. Thanks for your patience.

Good news! You've not missed anything. You can see my upcoming schedule on the sidebar on the right, and I'll let you know here the latest news. You can also find me on Facebook on my author page where we chat about my books and others that I'm reading.

In the meantime . . . hope you're having a wonderful week and enjoying these the last of these lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer. All apply here, especially the crazy. I'll post soon the wonderful pics of our vacation to Colorado.

Where I'm From

2011-08-17T22:07:00.001-05:00

“Where I’m From”

I am from endless sky, long hot summers, Rainbow bread and rabbit-eared television. From Nehi orange and cinnamon rolls hot from the oven.

I am from a cracker box house, gray-shingled, single bathroom, and three sisters giggling as the breeze riffles the bedroom curtains. From prairie grass bent in the wind, horny toads, and rainbows after a hailstorm.

I am from hopscotch on sidewalks, skate keys, and limbo under the broom handle. From lilac bushes, fingers black from cherry picking, baby chicks and playing nursemaid to orphaned bunnies.

I am from the land of pump jacks nodding against a purple and scarlet sunset, the noonday whistle, daddy leaving for the graveyard shift.

I am from Mike and Pat, supper at six o’clock, Avon calling, and pennies saved for a spinet. From German prayers at Thanksgiving, Grandpa’s whiskey jug, and Granny’s rice pudding.

I am from second pew on the right, Easter bonnets, Just As I Am, and baptismal waters.

I am from No Man’s Land, long stretches of time in the state of the Alamo, from Boomer Sooner and a college parchment stamped with RN.

I am from keep your nose clean and to the grindstone, laughter around the oak dining table, the snap of playing cards shuffled, and a family of storytellers. From elbow grease and belief in the American dream. I am blessed and rich in family and love and grace.

What I am not is a poet, but when I saw this writing prompt on one of the loops I frequent, I was mesmerized by the music in the simple words of this poet form and knew I had to write my own “Where I’m From”. Even more, it made me realize how wonderfully crafted and uniquely made we are and how our experiences have shaped us. We all have rich stories springing from the basic elements of our pasts—the concrete facts, the hurts, the victories, the sensory details that give texture to our lives and wings to our words.

I’m reminded all over again of the tremendous responsibility it is to string together words that edify and heal and bring laughter to the lips of readers. What a glorious privilege!

You can craft your own “Where I’m From” using the template of George Ella Lyon here.

Chasing Lilacs Goes Dutch

2011-07-31T22:17:00.000-05:00

Fun tidbit today: Chasing Lilacs is now available in Dutch! I'm thrilled with this cover, seen side by side by the US cover!

Opportunity Knocks

2011-07-26T09:56:00.000-05:00

Just a quick post to tell you about some terrific opportunities for free books right now.

My friend Lynne Gentry's debut novel, Reinventing Leona, which I told you about here is available for a limited time for FREE on Kindle. Don't miss out.

And two blogs are currently featuring giveaways of my book Broken Wings. Check out my interview on Susan Meissner's blog, Edgewise, for details. And visit Dragonflies 'n Daydreams - the cyber home of Lesley Peck. This is a really cute blog that also has a short review. Both drawings end soon, so if you've not gotten a copy of Broken Wings yet, this might be the opportunity you've been waiting for.

And of course, it's always available for purchase - - -

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE at ACFW Conference

2011-07-12T00:01:00.006-05:00

In just two months, ACFW descends on St. Louis, for the annual conference. This will be my sixth year to attend, and I can’t imagine being a writer in the Christian market and NOT attending. It’s one of the highlights of my year!

One of the many things I love about ACFW is how it has grown to meet the needs of both novice and seasoned authors alike. The first time I went, I was definitely an aspiring novelist. Yes, I’d written a couple of books which weren’t published, but I wasn’t sure how what I wrote fit into the inspirational market, so I went with some hesitation. Wow. Blown away by the experience only begins to describe what transpired during that four days. And each successive conference has brought new (and equally wonderful experiences).

So what makes ACFW so fantastic? I’m glad you asked. No matter what level you are in your writing, there’s a spot for you. And opportunities. Here’s a partial list of things you might expect from attending an ACFW conference.

Newcomer’s orientation – You’ll learn how to get the most out of the conference and have the opportunity to ask questions about how things work.

Continuing ed classes and workshops—these instructional hours are the “meat” of the conference. These vary from beginning level writer to multi-published, so there’s something for everyone. Confession: I still take a beginning level class once in a while, and I always learn something new or am reminded of a great writing concept that I need to work on.

Bonus early bird session with a national speaker. This year Dr. Stanley Williams will present his teaching on The Moral Premise. This promises to be a great session for every level of writer.

Appointments with editors and agents. Goes without saying how valuable to your writing career these are, but to make the most of your time and theirs, do your research ahead of time to see who might be the best fit for you and what you write.

For published writers: Media training and other media opportunities. This was a new and exciting part of ACFW last year as published authors had the opportunity to connect with publicists and/or staff from Christian Retailing Magazine (Strang Publications) and RT Book Reviews.

Awards Banquet—this is the “dessert” of the conference. The fun, gala evening when the best of ACFW is recognized—Genesis winners for the unpublished contest and Carol winners for published books. Plus Editor of the Year, Mentor of the Year, and Agent of the Year. Last year was particularly memorable for me as my agent won the coveted Agent of the Year award.

What do all these things have in common? Connections. Renewing acquaintances and catching up with those you see once a year. Rubbing shoulders with authors, editors, and agents. If it’s your first time and you only know ten people like I did when I attended my first conference, you’ll be surprised at how friendly and helpful ACFW is. To keep track of those you meet, it’s helpful to exchange biz cards.

Connection opportunities abound at ACFW – you’ll have many opportunities for casual meetings with people. The hotel lobby, the conference bookstore, meals, waiting for appointments, and after hours. A prayer room is open for private contemplation or if you want someone to pray with you, volunteers are there. I’ve discovered every year, there are divine connections to be made, sometimes when you least expect it. Come with a heart open for learning and worship, and God will meet you where you are.

See you in St. Louis!

Carla Stewart

Broken Wings, June 2011 (FaithWords)
Chasing Lilacs, 2010 (FaithWords), Oklahoma Book Award Finalist, 2011 OWFI Best Book of Fiction, Inspirational Reader’s Choice Awards, 2nd Place (Women’s Fiction)
www.carlastewart.com

REINVENTING LEONA by Lynne Gentry

2011-07-11T00:29:00.000-05:00

Today I'd like for you to meet a friend of mine, Lynne Gentry. The first time I saw her was several years ago at an ACFW conference when Sarah Palin was the Vice-Presidential candidate. Lynne sat a couple of rows ahead of me in the workshop we were both attending and had her dark hair pulled up and was wearing cute glasses. The resemblance to Sarah Palin was uncanny, and when someone mentioned it, Lynne laughed and said something clever. At the time I thought she was someone I would like to know.

As fate would have it, we ended up with the same agent, and a year later, we did get acquainted. Since then I've learned that she is gracious and more witty than I even imagined, and I'm honored to have her for a friend. I was thrilled to learn that her debut book was coming out with Tyndale's Digital First line of novels and am hoping that you'll all discover for yourselves what I've learned - Lynne Gentry is also a fabulous writer!

Here's a bit about her:

Lynne Gentry knew marrying a preacher might change her plans. She didn’t know how ministry would change her life. This author of numerous short stories and dramatic works travels the country as a professional acting coach and inspirational speaker. Lynne lives in Dallas with her husband Lonnie and counts spending time with her two grown children and their families her greatest joy.

And her debut novel, Reinventing Leona, is about . . . are you ready for this? A pastor's wife.

Leona Harper loves being a pastor's wife. Her impressive resume touts thirty years of coaxing hot water from rusty parsonage plumbing, planning church potlucks, and standing beside her husband while members take potshots at his sermons. Except for the little tiff with her grown children, Leona feels her life is right on track with the wishes of the Almighty . . . until her husband drops dead in the pulpit.

When the church board decides to fill the Reverend's vacated position, Leona is forced to find a paying job, mend her fractured family, and tackle her fears. With life spiraling out of control, Leona might find the church members' antics comical if she weren't so completely panicked. Can the faith of an overwhelmed widow withstand the added heartache of two resentful children and several underhanded church members? If Leona can't trust God, how will she learn to trust herself?

To learn more about Lynne and learn how to get a copy of her debut novel, please visit her website. I loved this book and am thrilled to give it the following endorsement:

Reinventing Leona is a delightful read that will have you laughing one minute, pondering the next, and then reaching for the tissues as the words dance from the pages. Lynne Gentry's voice sparkles with originality as she draws you into Leona's world. Highly recommended. Bravo!

LAZY, HAZY, CRAZY DAYS OF SUMMER

2011-07-08T11:25:00.000-05:00

They're here - those lazy, hazy days. I know we're only a month in, but already it feels like these hot, hot days will never end! It's not like when you were a kid and could run through the sprinkler to cool off. And these days, who has a window swamp cooler that you can stand in front of, lift up your shirt, and get a quick cool-off?

I do admit, thought, that the slower days are nice. Here are some of my favorite things about summer:
Snowcones - not the ones in a pointy cup that leak everywhere, but mounds of shaved ice in a cup, best eaten with a spoon. Strawberry is my favorite.

Watermelon - ice cold, eaten with a fork and a salt shaker nearby.

Movies - something about a dark, air-conditioned theater with the latest comedy or Pixar release just shouts summer to me.

Fireflies - Smart little bugs who only come out at dusk when the thermometer has dipped below triple digits. Nice to sit on the patio and watch the sparkle in the shrubs and flowers.

Lemonade Pie - One 3 oz. cream cheese. One small can frozen lemonade. Large container cool whip. Graham cracker crust. Blend softened cream cheese and lemonade, adding a bit of the lemonade at a time to make a smoother blend. Add cool whip and pile into graham cracker crust. Freeze. Simple and it makes my mouth happy to bite into the cold, tartness.

Books - There's never enough time to read all that I want, but I've started The Book Thief - not the typical summer read, but I'm sprinkling in a few fun reads as I go. I'll be telling you about one of those delights next time.

Most favorite thing about summer - Grandkids. We try to have each of the five grandkids who live nearby for a stay, and it usually is in the summer. The two from Texas are coming this afternoon. I'm thinking watermelon, movies, and watching fireflies. Who knows? We might even run through the sprinkler.

Stay cool! And as my favorite coffee guy down at the Quik Trip says, "See ya next time!"

So what are you doing this summer? Vacation? Pool parties? Please share.

2011 Faith-Hope-Love Inspirational Reader's Choice Award Winners

2011-06-28T21:11:00.000-05:00

Today at their annual meeting, the Faith-Hope-Love Chapter of RWA announced the 2011 Inspirational Reader’s Choice Award Winners. My only regret is that I wasn't in NYC to celebrate with this great group of authors! I'm honored to be among them.

Women’s Fiction

1) Plain Paradise by Beth Wiseman (Thomas Nelson)

2) Chasing Lilacs by Carla Stewart (FaithWords)

3) The House on Sugar Plum Lane by Judy Duarte (Kensington)

Long Contemporary

1) Crossing Oceans by Gina Holmes (Tyndale)

2) Love Finds You in Sugarcreek, Ohio by Serena Miller (Summerside)

3) The Six-Liter Club by Harry Kraus (Howard)

Short Contemporary

1) White Roses by Shannon Taylor Vannatter (Barbour – Heartsong Presents)

2) Rodeo Redemption by Teri Wilson (White Rose)

3) Tender Mercies by Mary Manners (White Rose)

Long Historical

1) The Preacher’s Bride by Jody Hedlund (Bethany House)

2) A Memory Between Us by Sarah Sundin (Revell)

3) Abbie Ann by Sharlene MacLaren (Whitaker House)

Short Historical

1) A Matter of Character by Robin Lee Hatcher (Zondervan)

2) Walker’s Wedding by Lori Copeland (Harvest)

3) The Substitute Bride by Janet Dean (Steeple Hill)

Romantic Suspense

1) Too Close to Home by Lynette Eason (Revell)

2) Forget Me Not by Vicki Hinze (Waterbrook)

3) Nightshade by Ronie Kendig (Barbour)

Novella

1) Once Upon a Christmas Eve by Anita Higman (Summerside)

2) A Bodine Family Christmas by Marta Perry (Steeple Hill)

3) The Snowflake by Jamie Carie (Broadman and Holman)

SHE MAKES IT LOOK EASY By Marybeth Whalen - CFBA

2011-06-24T14:34:00.001-05:00

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing She Makes It Look Easy David C. Cook (June 1, 2011) by Marybeth Whalen

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Marybeth Whalen is the wife of Curt and mom of six children. The family lives outside Charlotte, NC. Marybeth is a member of the Proverbs 31 Ministries writing team and a regular contributor to their daily devotions. Her first novel,The Mailbox was released in June 2010. Her next novel, She Makes It Look Easy, will be released in June 2011. Additionally, she serves as director of She Reads, Proverbs 31 Ministries' fiction division.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Ariel Baxter has just moved into the neighborhood of her dreams. The chaos of domestic life and the loneliness of motherhood, however, moved with her. Then she meets her neighbor, Justine Miller. Justine ushers Ariel into a world of clutter-free houses, fresh-baked bread, homemade crafts, neighborhood play dates, and organization techniques designed to make marriage better and parenting manageable.

Soon Ariel realizes there is hope for peace, friendship, and clean kitchen counters. But when rumors start to circulate about Justine’s real home life, Ariel must choose whether to believe the best about the friend she admires or consider the possibility that “perfection” isn’t always what it seems to be.

If you would like to read an excerpt of She Makes It Look Easy, go HERE.

My Review:

Marybeth Whalen’s second book intrigued me from the moment I learned of the premise: Women who compare their lives to other women. It’s human nature at its most basic level, at least for suburban housewives today and perhaps it’s always been so. Ariel has three sons, a husband who travels, and has just moved into the home of her dreams in an upscale neighborhood. Between the antics of her sons and running a home, she can’t even seem to get the unpacking done.

When her neighbor Justine—practically perfect in every way—enters her life, Ariel latches onto her in hopes that she can learn to be like Justine—efficient, organized, and flawless. What becomes apparent rather soon, though, is that Justine is not who and what she seems.

She Makes It Look Easy is a light, quick read—perfect for summertime reading—but don’t let the easy going writing style fool you. This book will make you think about your own life and friendships. It’s uncannily “real” and may make you uncomfortable, especially with the unresolved ending. That bit of irresolution, though, may prompt you to take a closer look at your relationships and decide if you’re doing the right thing by ignoring obvious breaches of conduct and morality if they exist.

I applaud Marybeth for tackling this uncomfortable subject and keeping it real. Well done.

Potpourri

2011-06-22T22:57:00.000-05:00


Maui Book Signing

It's that time again - the time when I'm going to throw a bit of this and that at you. If you follow me on FaceBook (and you should), then you'll know that Broken Wings has been launched. And what a launch it was. We kicked off with a Twitter party and a book signing on June 3. Max and I were in Maui for his company's leadership conference (thank you IHS for the fabulous time!) so the signing was held on the terrace of the beautiful Fairmont Kea Loni hotel. I don't claim to be an expert on marketing, but it seems to me that if an opportunity arises, one should take advantage. Since almost everyone at the conference was a stranger to me, I decided to give my books away to people who loved to read. I hoped to tap into a new audience and - here's the brilliant part - they would be getting the book two days before boarding planes destined for places like Germany, Spain, UK, Canada, and dozens of US cities. I don't know about you, but when I travel I notice what people are reading whether by the pool or in the airport, so hopefully a few folks will have flashed Broken Wings to ~~nosy~~ curious travelers. There's no way to evaluate the results, but for me, it seems like a win-win deal.

Sunsets in Maui were glorious!

Now that Maui sunsets are a distant memory, I've had book signings in Tulsa and two in Perryton, Texas. A quick story about the Tulsa signing - I put a reminder on FaceBook that morning and right away got a response "We're on the way!" Our good friends, Blair and Diana, came from Allen, TX! They definitely get the prize for coming the farthest! Full disclosure here: They were on the way to Chicago and just made this one of their stops. Very fun!

Two lovely signings in Perryton, TX, which is our old stomping ground. The wonderful thing about these events is that people come and pull up a chair, visit with their neighbors and sip iced tea. I love the feeling of community that we have at these events.

Michael, Cindy, and Jerry lend their support

Pam and Don - Pam loves books. Don and Max talked golf.

Diana and Blair - Prize for coming the farthest! Thanks, friends.

Every author's dream - a line of people waiting to get their books signed!

My assistant, Nash, drew Carol's name for the gift basket.

Media is part of a book campaign, and I've been blessed with two events that are new to me - a TV spot on our local FOX channel and a podcast on Shellie Rushing Tomlinson's "All Things Southern" where we had a virtual chat on her front porch. I'm NOT a fan of seeing myself in videos or hearing my voice, but people have told me these were both successful appearances. I'll take their word for it. One thing I can testify to was that the FOX TV folks and Shellie were fabulous hosts and made me feel comfortable and welcome. And you should check out Shellie's writing - she's one funny lady. Thanks all!

I don't know about you, but I'm weary. Summer is breathing down our necks, and when those muggy days roll in, I'm glad to stay at home and sit under the fan. Thankfully, I'll be able to do that for a while. That's not to say I'll be loafing. I've opened the file for the next book and am busy working on Sweet Dreams, coming in 2013! The cover art for next summer's release, Stardust, should be coming soon. Keep an eye out.

What's up for your summer? I'd love to hear about the places you've been and where you're off to. Safe travels.

THE SWEETEST THING by Elizabeth Musser

2011-06-13T12:44:00.000-05:00

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing The Sweetest Thing • Bethany House (June 1, 2011) by Elizabeth Musser

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Elizabeth Musser, an Atlanta native, studied English and French literature at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee. While at Vanderbilt, I had the opportunity to spend a semester in Aix-en-Provence,

France. During her Senior year at Vanderbilt, she attended a five-day missions conference for students and discovered an amazing thing: God had missionaries in France, and she felt God calling her there. After graduation, she spent eight months training for the mission field in Chicago, Illinois and then two years serving in a tiny Protestant church in Eastern France where she met her future husband.

Elizabeth lives in southern France with her husband and their two sons. She find her work as a mother, wife, author and missionary filled with challenges and chances to see God’s hand at work daily in her life. Inspiration for her novels come both from her experiences growing up in Atlanta as well as through the people she meets in her work in France. Many conversations within her novels are inspired from real-life conversations with skeptics and seekers alike.

Her acclaimed novel, The Swan House, was a Book Sense bestseller list in the Southeast and was selected as one of the top Christian books for 2001 by Amazon's editors. Searching for Eternity is her sixth novel.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Compelling Southern Novel Explores Atlanta Society in the 1930s.

The Singleton family’s fortunes seem unaffected by the Great Depression, and Perri—along with the other girls at Atlanta’s elite Washington Seminary—lives a life of tea dances with college boys and matinees at the cinema. When tragedy strikes, Perri is confronted with a world far different from the one she has always known.

At the insistence of her parents, Mary ‘Dobbs’ Dillard, the daughter of an itinerant preacher, is sent from inner-city Chicago to live with her aunt and attend Washington Seminary. Dobbs, passionate, fiercely individualistic and deeply religious, enters Washington Seminary as a bull in a china shop and shocks the girls with her frank talk about poverty and her stories of revival on the road. Her arrival intersects at the point of Perri’s ultimate crisis, and the tragedy forges an unlikely friendship.

The Sweetest Thing tells the story of two remarkable young women—opposites in every way—fighting for the same goal: surviving tumultuous change. Just as the Great Depression collides disastrously with Perri's well-ordered life, friendship blossoms--a friendship that will be tested by jealousy, betrayal, and family secrets...

If you would like to read the first chapter of The Sweetest Thing, go HERE.

MY REVIEW:
This was my first book by this author, and what a sweet read it was. It's a book about friendship, the kind that you need to read slowly so you can savor each word. It starts off with a bang, but then unfolds gently and kept me enthralled with these characters from Depression Era Atlanta. I loved the ebb and flow of friendship developing and moving through the crises of Dobbs and Perri until the final surprising, but satisfying conclusion. Well done, Elizabeth!

A couple of corrections

2011-06-08T00:33:00.000-05:00

I'm always nervous when I pre-post something here about events before they actually happen. And since I was in Maui last week, I wanted to dig my toes in the sand and sip Mai Tais on the beach and stay as far away from the computer as possible. I should have paid better attention to my calendar and taken better care of you, my readers.

So, here is the revised list of spots where Broken Wings can be found today.

Still have a giveaway going on over at Trish Perry's blog, True Love, Real Laughs, Pure Fiction. Lovely blog.
Janalyn Voigt's blog has moved!!! She's now at Novel Books and has a giveaway going on the rest of the week. There I've written a letter to readers, so please stop by and say hi.

I'll also be on the RT Book Reviews Inspirational spotlight and at SouthernBelleView this week, but I'll wait until I have those links so I'm not sending you skipping all over the galaxy. And next week, there are some other stops so please stay tuned. Several copies of Broken Wings are still up for grabs around the bloggy world - I'll try to help you track them down.

Have a wonderful Wednesday!

BROKEN WINGS Giveaways - Sightings around the Blogosphere

2011-06-06T00:15:00.009-05:00

I must say, I'm overwhelmed at all the support from the Twitter party and the blog tour last week. Such good times and a warm welcome for Broken Wings. If you missed it, there's still time to get in the action! I've done some fun interviews and there will be giveaways on blogs off and on this month. I'll post these once or twice a week so you'll know where to visit and leave a comment.

MONDAY, June 6: Trish Perry's blog: True Love, Real Laughs, Pure Fiction. This is a gorgeous blog and Trish had a lot of great questions! She's also taking comments for a giveaway of Broken Wings.

Also on Monday - Janalyn Voigt invited me to write a letter to her readers. While you're there, read a bit about Janalyn - I love her wisdom and the easy writing style she has. Giveaway on Janalyn's site, too.

Finally, all this week, I'll be on Casey Herrignshaw's Encourage an Author site. She has fun things planned each day. Casey has such a heart for encouragement - I'm very blessed by her, and I think you will be too. Giveaway scheduled - not sure which day.

So, this week is off to a great start. There are two more VERY EXCITING things coming up later in the week - exciting as in - I think I might "faint" because . . . well, I'll just have to tell you later.

In the meantime, stay cool - S U M M E R has arrived!

You're Invited to the Party!

2011-06-02T08:30:00.003-05:00

Broken Wings releases Friday! Come for the send off by joining the Twitter Party!

WHEN: Friday, June 3, 2011 - All day.
WHERE: Wherever you are.
HOW TO FIND THE PARTY: Follow @Chasing Lilacs (that's me) and @FaithWords (they're throwing the party) on Twitter. Use the hashtag #brokenwings and join in the conversation!
LIVE Q &A from noon to 1pm Central time! Chime in with your questions, and I'll do my best to answer.

A "birdie" told me there might be giveaways!!

I like parties. I love chatting it up with readers and other writers. What I don't like is selling. Even so, Broken Wings is available here and here and here. You might also find it at your library or your favorite book store. I appreciate your support.

See you on the Tweet Deck!

Blog Tour Links

2011-06-01T18:03:00.000-05:00

Hmmmm. It seems the first three links for the Broken Wings Blog Tour are not working as they should - I'll try to set those up for you again -

Dragonflies 'n Daydreams
Books in the Burbs
Celtic Lady's Reviews

These sweet bloggers haven't posted yet, so don't worry - you've not missed anything yet.

Happy Wednesday!

BROKEN WINGS Blog Tour

2011-05-31T21:00:00.002-05:00

Broken Wings is getting ready to try her wings!! June 3 is the official release day although there've been sightings already at Barnes and Noble, and Amazon shipped the books early but not the Kindle version. Some of you have already read it! THANK YOU! There'll be a month-long hoopla with blogs, book signings and sightings, and the last two weeks of June - a HUGE contest right here at the Cafe. I hope you'll stay tuned for we're just getting started!

For today, though, Sarah Reck, the FaithWords web publicist has set up a blog tour at some lovely sites. I've sneaked over and taken a peek at some of them, and you're in for a treat. Some of the sites are offering giveaways (I'm sorry, I don't know which ones), and you'll be introduced to some very fun people out in cyberspace.

The following blogs will post sometime between June 1 and June 3. Stop by and say hello, okay?

Dragonflies and Daydreams

Books in the Burbs

Celtic Lady's Reviews

Book Nook Club

The Review Stew

My Reading Room

Heaven is a Bookstore

A Cozy Reader's Corner Reviews

A Musing Reviews

Jen's RAC (Recently Asked Questions)

ReadAllOver Reviews

A Peek at My Bookshelf

Next up, I'll tell you about a great way to start your summer - a Twitter party - Broken Wings takes flight on June 3!

Faith-Hope-Love Inspirational Reader's Choice Award Finalists for 2011

2011-05-24T22:00:00.000-05:00

FROM THE FAITH, HOPE, & LOVE WEBSITE:

On behalf of the IRCA Contest coordinator, Nancy J. Farrier,
we are pleased to announce the 2011 IRCA Finalists

Long Contemporary

Crossing Oceans by Gina Holmes (Tyndale)
The Six-Liter Club by Harry Kraus (Howard)
Love Finds You in Sugarcreek, Ohio by Serena Miller (Summerside)

Short Contemporary

Tender Mercies by Mary Manners (White Rose)
White Roses by Shannon Taylor Vannatter (Barbour)
Rodeo Redemption by Teri Wilson (White Rose)

Long Historical

The Preacher's Bride by Jody Hedlund (Bethany House)
Abbie Ann by Sharlene MacLaren (Whitaker House)
A Memory Between Us by Sarah Sundin (Revell)

Short Historical

Walker's Wedding by Lori Copeland (Harvest)
The Substitute Bride by Janet Dean (Steeple Hill)
A Matter of Character by Robin Lee Hatcher (Zondervan)

Women's Fiction

The House on Sugar Plum Lane by Judy Duarte (Kensington)

Chasing Lilacs by Carla Stewart (FaithWords)

Plain Paradise by Beth Wiseman (Thomas Nelson)

Romantic Suspense

Too Close to Home by Lynette Eason (Revell)
Forget Me Not by Vicki Hinze (Waterbrook)
Nightshade by Ronie Kendig (Barbour)

Novella

The Snowflake by Jamie Carrie (Broadman and Holman)
Once Upon a Christmas Eve by Anita Higman (Summerside)
A Bodine Family Christmas by Marta Perry (Steeple Hill)

Congratulations to the finalists!

I'm thrilled to be among friends on this list. Waving to fellow debut authors Sarah Sundin, Gina Holmes, Serena Miller, Ronie Kendig, and Jody Hedlund. It doesn't seem that long ago that Sarah and I were bemoaning the fact that we might never be published. I'm so proud to be walking this publishing journey with her. All of these authors are top drawer - Need a book to read??? Lots of good picks right here!

Friendship on my Mind

2011-05-18T23:51:00.000-05:00

"A friend is someone who knows the song in your heart, and can sing it back to you when you have forgotten the words."

Isn't that beautiful? I want to be that kind of friend - to be there when disappointments and trials come. To wipe the tears from the eyes of my friend as my own cheeks moisten. To celebrate small moments and big with whoops of joy and to listen with an open heart. I want to be dependable and encouraging and honest and grateful. Often, I fail. Perhaps it's a sign of growing older, but in the past few years, I've become more aware of the priceless treasure that friendship is. I want to savor it more.

That was part of the reason I wrote Broken Wings. To celebrate friendship, especially the friendships of women. To show that it's a give and take. That sometimes you're the one down and need a hand up. Or sometimes you're the comforter your friend needs. Or the kick in the pants. Friends come in all ages and sizes. For the next few weeks, I'm going to share stories about some of my friends (no worries - I'm honor bound to get your deep dark secrets) and tell you why they're so special.

Yours truly with early childhood friends

In the meantime, I've heard from some of you that your copy of Broken Wings has already winged its way to your mailbox via Amazon. THANK YOU so much for pre-ordering the book! I hope you love it as much as I loved telling the story of Mitzi and Brooke.

I also have a new "author" page on FaceBook. I'd thought about having a party there to launch Broken Wings and give away some cool prizes. Wouldn't you know? The same day I put up my page, the FaceBook guidelines changed and contests can no longer be held on FaceBook itself. But I will be able to direct people here to the Cafe for some fun partying and a grand prize that I think will make you drool. So, stay tuned. And please "like" my author page here.

Now, for a fun quote about friends:

A true friend is someone who thinks you are a good egg even though he knows that you are slightly cracked. ~ Bernard Meltzer

Can you name three friends from your grade school days? Did you have a best friend? Please share!

Stringing Together a Novel

2011-04-28T00:21:00.000-05:00

For some people, novels arrive fully formed in their brains, via a dream or a story the author has been nursing for years. Broken Wings was more like a pebble here, a pearl there, a flicker of an idea that wasn't quite flesh and bones. It actually had its origins in the stories my mother-in-law and dad told me about living through the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl days.

You see, when I first started writing, I went to a conference and learned they have contests! I was fascinated by that and went home and wrote a short story. For eight months I wrote, researched, and polished my entry which I called "Sand Plum Summer." It took place during the Depression and was about a young girl who prayed for a baby brother. On Black Sunday, a dust storm whipped through this farm family's corner of Oklahoma. The next day, three children were found in a shack. Their mother, out picking sand plums, perished in the storm, and the children (yes, a baby brother!) were taken in by the farm family. I loved this story, entered it in the contest, and much to my surprise, it won 1st place and was the first money I ever earned as a writer.

I thought of the characters off and on over the next few years, and it kept coming back to me that the oldest of those three orphans surely had a story to tell. Why were they stranded? What did she remember? At some point I knew her mother was fleeing an abusive husband. But was there a story there?

Then one day I read an article in the Tulsa paper about the possible renovation of the Big Ten Ballroom which had hosted jazz greats back in the forties and fifties. Maybe this orphaned girl grew up and became a jazz singer. She would, of course, be old now so perhaps she needed to tell her story.

About that time I'd also read a couple of "framed" stories where an older narrator tells a fascinating story of his or her youth (Water for Elephants, The Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet). I began stringing the pearls I'd gathered together, but still didn't have a real story.

When my first novel was accepted, the editor (bless her heart) asked what else I had. My agent sent her a completed young adult story I'd just written. It was rejected. Do you have something else?

Well . . . there's this jazz singer.

After that, things went into high gear as my agent and I brainstormed how the story could be told using the fragments I had. We had to have current conflict and situations. I knew the singer would be telling her story to a younger person and came up with a young professional woman in need of a friend - a woman who's being abused by her fiance. Abuse became the silk cord that held the beads in place and united the two characters. We added a few more beads, discarded some that didn't work out. In a four day period, I wrote a synopsis (summary) of the story and three chapters. My agent submitted it, and a few days later, I was offered a two-book contract.

Broken Wings is a story of friendship, perseverance, and loss, but there is great hope in the characters. And I'm nearly certain the jazz tunes I played non-stop while writing the story seeped into the pages. In five short weeks, the book will be on bookstore shelves. I hope you'll pick one up and give it a home. Already I'm thrilled at this early review. It's a scary, but thrilling, thing to put one of your babies out there. I'll be hosting some contests here and on FaceBook in the next few months so I hope to see you there.

I'm off to gather some more pearls to string together for a new story. Maybe I'll stumble upon some gems!

He is Risen!

2011-04-23T22:37:00.000-05:00

He is Risen!

Duststorms Then and Now

2011-04-19T13:06:00.000-05:00

This has been a horrible year for folks out in western Oklahoma and much of west Texas. Rainfall is measure in one-hundredths of an inch and every precious drop is welcomed. The drought and high winds have birthed many dust-filled days and wildfires. Thousands (maybe millions) of acres of land have burned along with many homes. More and more people are talking about how this must've been what the "dirty thirties" were like when dust storms came one upon another during the Great Depression.

I have family and friends in the "dustbowl" of Texas and Oklahoma and ventured out there last week to celebrate a birthday, visit, and give a couple of talks. The first full day there was glorious - bright blue skies, wide open spaces that made me want to lift my face to the sky and inhale the beauty of it. Two days later, while I was at my dad's, the wind woke me up at 4 am. Fierce. Howling. Daddy and I stood at the picture window and watched the yellow sky, the wind whipping at everything in its path, stirring up dust. We pointed out a tree line in the distance, its form dark, barely distinguishable. By noon, the trees were no longer visible, the sky just a continuous brown smudge.

Daddy lived through the dust bowl on a farm less than ten miles from where we stood watching the wind blow. It didn't take much encouragement from me for Daddy to tell me about those days. Here are his random memories.

Phyllis, Dall, LaRue, Mike (my dad), Evain

"My daddy went to bed and cried every night, wondering how he and Mother were going to feed and care for five kids. We had milk cows, but we couldn't afford to feed them and times were bad for all of us so the government shot all but one of the cows. They let us keep the one so us kids would have milk. The dirt was so bad, though, that it caked up all over her body and crusted over, clogging all her pores. She couldn't breathe, and got sick. We locked her in the milking stanchion and poured water on her, tried to scrub the built-up dirt off, but it didn't help. Our one milk cow died."

We refilled our coffee cups, grateful for storm windows and the secure house. There were no such luxuries in the thirties.

"We hung sheets and blankets over the doors when the dirt was blowing. Daddy caulked all around the windows so even on nice days we couldn't open the windows and get fresh air. Even sealed up, the windows leaked dust, and us boys would take our little tractors and plow the dirt that settled on the window sills." He ran his finger along the sill, his chin quivering.

"We had a dog named Jack. Just a non-descript mutt about so high." He pointed to his knee. "We couldn't feed him, so my brothers and I caught rabbits. You could walk right up to them and pick them up. So much grit had blown in their eyes, they couldn't see. We slammed them against the oak wagon wheels and threw them over to Jack so he wouldn't starve."

In better times

"I think I remember Black Sunday. For some reason, a lot of the storms came on a Sunday, but if it's the one I'm thinking of, there was just a black line on the horizon to the north, extending to the west. It got wider and wider and as it got closer, birds started flapping overhead, flying higher and higher trying to get above the dirt cloud. The sky was black with the clouds and what seemed like millions of flapping birds trying to escape the storm. The birds were just about as spooky as the dust storm."

Around four o'clock Daddy and I traced our steps back to the picture window. The tree line in the distance had come back in view, the sky now just dull and tired looking. Daddy pulled on a jacket, covered his mouth with the silk kerchief he wore to keep out the elements. "Time to feed the colt." I watched as he walked to the barn, his body hunkered into the wind which was still pretty gusty. A short time later he returned and pulled two chicken eggs from his pocket - the daily offering from the two hens who'd gone about their business, wind and dirt or not.

And I think that's the way it is. Life does indeed go on for most of us. And on reflection, I'm thankful for a dad who still remembers the storms of life, that he and others have survived to share their stories. I'm thankful for a praying grandfather who saw his prayers answered and lived to see better times. And I'm thankful to you, my readers, for sharing time with me.

Do you like to hear stories of your parents and grandparents? How do you think events of the past shape who we are today? While I didn't grow up during the Depression, I grew up hearing stories of it. It has shaped who I am and what I write. I hope you'll join me next time as I tell you how those stories have infused my writing. Until then, be safe.

OKLAHOMA BOOK AWARDS

2011-04-11T16:24:00.001-05:00

Saturday night was the annual Oklahoma Book Awards Celebration presented by the Oklahoma Center for the Book. I was honored that Chasing Lilacs was a finalist for the Fiction category. So many great authors and illustrators come from my state, it's hard not to feel a teensy bit proud. And while my book didn't win, I was glad when the author who sat next to me at the book signing event did take home the medal. Congrats to David Gerard for his book God's Acres!

David Gerard, Winner of the Fiction Award

These kinds of events both scare me and thrill me somehow. Several judges came by and talked to me about my book and how relevant it was to life in the fifties. Others chatted with Max and made him feel welcome. Oklahomans are like that - good people who take you in and make you feel special. An unexpected treat was meeting Kitty Pittman who reviewed my book on her Okie Reads blog. Here's her summation of the Book Award evening. What she failed to mention was that she - Kitty Pittman - received the Glenda Carlile Distinguished Service Award. Kudos!

Kitty Pittman - as lovely in person as she is on her blog

My favorite date, as always!

Former Oklahoma Lieutenant Governor, Jari Askins, was the master of ceremonies and shared about her lifelong love of books and memories of trips to the library as a child. Rilla Askew, a beloved Oklahoma author received the lifetime achievement award.

Our good friend Jingyau

Sounds of the harp filled the background as we enjoyed a scrumptious dinner, good fellowship, and added another page to the scrapbook of lovely memories. Have I mentioned lately that I LOVE books? I love to read them, write them, talk about them, and most of all celebrate them.

Thanks Oklahoma Center for the Book for making the celebration a night to remember!!

It's All Good

2011-03-25T23:18:00.001-06:00

Hello, lovely readers! I've been a little incog lately. Life has snowballed on me in the last few months. I wish I could blame it on something other than:
a) lack of organization
b) wasting too much time
c) overcommitment
d) laziness
e) being easily distracted
f) bad weather

It's actually a combination of all those things. I'm not a multi-tasker and yet it may be time to take some juggling lessons.

So, winter's behind us, the daffodils are blooming, and I'm back. Hopefully, you'll hear more from me.

Most immediate, I have a couple of things to share with you.

The WINNER of When All My Dreams Come True by Janelle Mowery is CARA PUTMAN!!!!

This is a terrific book with so many twists and turns you have to be careful not to get whiplash. And cute cowboys, too!! Enjoy the book, Cara.

AND NOW, another bit of fantastic news. I've signed a new two-book contract with FaithWords (Hachette Book Group). And that, basically, is why I've been snowed under. While I was enjoying the thrill of being a debut author last year with book signings, interviews, and generally lapping up the attention, I let my writing slip a little. Yes, BROKEN WINGS is on schedule and will come out this June. It's available for pre-order now.

BUT, I didn't get nearly enough done on my next book so I've been in my writing closet for a couple of months, hammering away at the keyboard. If you are counting, that's three books that I'm either promoting, fixin' to promote (yay!), and writing. Plus brainstorming for new ideas in my spare time. This is the life I dreamed about, and I must say, it's both different and more wonderful than I ever imagined. You have all been so supportive, and that's been one of the cool things about being a writer - connecting with all of you.

Okay, off track a little there (see item "e" above). Now that I've signed the contract, I can share with you that the next book (Summer, 2012) is called STARDUST. Here's the short version of the story:
STARDUST is the story of an East Texas widow who sets her dreams on running the Stardust Tourist Court, but when her dead husband's mistress arrives with a child in tow and polio strikes, she finds her original dreams are crippled.

I've had so much fun researching for this book (THREE trips to East Texas) and trying to pull it all together. I'm still doing some fine tuning before I turn it into my editor ONE WEEK from today. Yikes! What a fun and glorious life I lead.

Tell me, how do you juggle the many facets of writing/marketing/home if you're a writer?
If you're not a writer, do you struggle with kids/hubby/work/home, and how do you give them all the proper attention they deserve?

Complete disclosure here: This is my breakfast table a couple of weeks ago. It's not much better today.

Hope to see more of you now!

The Art of Brainstorming

2011-03-16T22:50:00.000-06:00

I'm so excited about this event! Perfect timing as I'm choosing my next book project.

Some details and links for you:

The seminar will be held Saturday, April 2, from 9:00 AM until 4:30 PM at Fellowship Lutheran Church, 6727 S Sheridan Rd, Tulsa OK, 74133. Registration is open now: $35 (including lunch) for the general public, $25 for members of ACFW.

Register online here.

If you prefer, you may download the registration form and mail it with your payment to W.I.N., PO Box 724, Jenks OK 74037. Registration closes March 26th, so sign up today!

About our guest speaker:

Rachel Hauck has been writing full-time for seven years. She’s published more than thirteen novels, including the acclaimed Songbird Novels with country music artist Sara Evans. She is a writing mentor and teacher, an advisor for American Christian Fiction Writers, the My Book Therapy therapist (see mybooktherapy.com), and an avid Buckeyes football fan."

If this sounds like a commercial, it is. But it's also a great opportunity to hear and learn from a seasoned novelist. Rachel is a talented teacher, and the Tulsa WIN chapter is fortunate to have her. Interested? Don't delay: DEADLINE to register is March 26!

In Good Company

2011-02-28T22:53:00.001-06:00

One of the scariest aspects of writing (and there are many) is allowing your work to stand against other writers and books. It would be easy to simply say, "Okay, I have a book published; it's lovely to hold and look at; people are saying nice things," and just let it go at that. And yet, there is this tiny part of a writer's heart that says, "Yeah, but how does it compare to other books?"

There are numerous places to submit published works. Conference contests. National book awards. Regional prizes. Genre contests named after famous authors like Agatha or Bram Stoker. Either the author or publisher has to submit to these contests, and it is time sensitive in that most awards given in 2011 are for books published in the previous calendar year.

Like I said, it's a scary business, and yes, I've thrown my debut book, Chasing Lilacs, out there with a few prayers. The Oklahoma Center for the Book is the organization that presents the premiere Oklahoma Book Awards, choosing winners from finalists in five published categories. The criteria is specific: books must be set in Oklahoma or the author must be an Oklahoma native or resident. And as you might have guessed by now, this Oklahoma girl's Chasing Lilacs is a finalist in the fiction category along with five others. I'm honored and humbled.

How will my little coming-of-age story stack up against the others? I have no idea. I did check out the other finalists in fiction. The stories all sound fascinating and it makes me a little nervous. I think the competition will be tough, but come what may, I'm already honored to just be a finalist.

You may see a list of all the finalists here or here. Also I found this new review at Okie Reads last week.

The award ceremony is April 9 in Oklahoma City. Will I be scared? Probably.

But I'm glad I entered.

Love and Laughter in SAVE THE DATE by Jenny B. Jones

2011-02-22T22:10:00.000-06:00

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Save The Date Thomas Nelson (February 1, 2011) by Jenny B. Jones
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

I write Christian fiction with a few giggles, quite a bit of sass, and lots of crazy. My novels include the Katie Parker Production series and So Not Happening. I would also like to take credit for Twilight , but somewhere I think I read you’re not supposed to lie.

When I’m not typing my heart out (or checking email), I teach at a super-sized high school in Arkansas.

My students are constantly telling me how my teaching changes their lives and turned them away from drugs, gangs, and C-SPAN.

Okay, that’s not exactly true.

Some facts that are true include:

I've always been refined!

A. I got my camera confiscated by big boys with guns at the American Embassy in Europe this past summer. O la la!

B. I once worked in a seed mill office and cleaned out mice on a regular basis. Ew.

C. I’m a former drama teacher.

D. I didn’t pass my drivers test the first time. Or the second…

E. I attract stray animals like a magnet.

F. I used to assemble and test paint ball guns for a local factory...

Since my current job leaves me with very little free time, I believe in spending my spare hours in meaningful, intellectual pursuits such as:

-watching E!

-updating my status on Facebook

-catching Will Ferrell on YouTube and

-writing my name in the dust on my furniture

I’d love to hear about you, so drop me a note. Or check me out on Facebook.

ABOUT THE BOOK

You’re invited to the engagement of the most unlikely couple of the year.

When the funding for Lucy’s non-profit job is pulled, she is determined to find out why. Enter Alex Sinclair, former professional football star and heir of Sinclair Enterprises—the primary donor to Lucy’s Saving Grace organization. Alex Sinclair has it all . . . except for the votes he needs to win his bid for Congress. Both Lucy and Alex have something the other wants. Despite their mutual dislike, Alex makes Lucy a proposition: pose as his fiancée in return for the money she desperately needs. Bound to a man who isn’t quite what he seems, Lucy finds her heart – and her future – on the line.

Save the Date is a spunky romance that will have readers laughing out loud as this dubious pair try to save their careers, their dreams . . . and maybe even a date.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Save The Date, go HERE

Calling All Teen Writers

2011-02-14T11:46:00.000-06:00

If you're under 25 years old and want to have a ton of fun with your writing, Stephanie Morrill at Go Teen Writers is running a contest this year. Every other week you get a writing prompt to get you started and can submit up to 100 words. The judges rotate with each round of competition. Yours truly will be judging this round, and I'm looking forward to reading your submissions.

Complete rules here -

This week's prompt here. I'm so excited that I will be judging for Valentine's week. Hurry on over and get writing.

Happy Valentine's Day everyone! Hope your day is filled with all the things you love!

Heady Stuff - Pulpwood Queens' Bestseller List for January 2011

2011-02-10T22:24:00.000-06:00

The first best-seller list for Chasing Lilacs!! I'm thrilled and hats off to Kathy Patrick, Tiara wearing and Book sharing founder of the Pulpwood Queens and Timber Guys Book Clubs: the largest “meeting and discussing book club in the WORLD”! What I really love about Kathy is her non-stop efforts at bringing authors and readers together and her heart for stamping out illiteracy. Woo-Hoo!

Take a close look at this list - they are ALL amazing books - novels, memoir, non-fiction. I think I met all but one or two at the Girlfriend Weekend last month and I LOVE these authors. I think you will too!

TOP TWENTY COUNTDOWN FOR JANUARY 2011

PULPWOOD QUEENS' BESTSELLER LIST OF HITS!!!!

1) My Reading Life by Pat Conroy

2) I Still Dream About You by Fannie Flagg

3) The Sanctuary of Outcasts by Neil White

4) Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand by Helen Simonson

5) Half-Broke Horses by Jeannette Walls

6) The Pulpwood Queens’ Tiara Wearing, Book Sharing Guide to Life by Kathy L. Patrick

7) My Orange Duffel Bag by Sam Bracken and Echo Garrett

8) They Came to Nashville by Marshall Chapman

9) as the sycamore grows by Jennie Helderman

10) Don’t Quit Your Day Job Edited by Sonny Brewer

11) The Miracle of Mercy Land by River Jordan

12) My Night with Saddam by Dr. Mark Green

13) Miss Hildreth Wore Brown by Olivia DeBelle Byrd

14) Write That Book Already by Sam Barry and Kathi Kamen Goldmark

15) Walking in the Deep End by Susan Parker

16) If Holden Caufield Where in my Classroom by Bernie Schein

17) Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet Jamie Ford

18) Scout, Atticus, and Boo: A Celebration of 50 Years of “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Mary Murphy

19) The Mailbox by Mary Beth Whelan

20) Chasing Lilacs by Carla Stewart

How many of these have you read? Are any of them on your reading list for 2011?