Even in the busy time of the Christmas holiday season, "Primal-A Quest for the Lost Soul of Christianity" by Mark Batterson, was a book that I carved out time for. The question: "What would your Christianity look like if it was stripped down to the simplest, rawest, purest faith possible?" is one that my minister-son and I discussed at length about last week. Prayer without clich'es, awed silence, and "The Americanized Gospel" have stirred my spirit as well as my brain. I have recommended this book to many of my friends. I think it is a great study for people who want to get past the varnish and chrome and find the real basis for Faith in God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit.
Elaine Littau, author of Nan's Journey & Elk's Resolve
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Feeding the 5000
Feeding
the 5000
I was at a meeting last year where the subject was "Feeding the 5000". Perhaps you are an author wondering how you are going to get your book into the hands of the multitudes or you may be someone with a mountain of debt or some other insurmountable task. The speaker that night said that Jesus didn't just plunge in and start feeding everyone. He had the disciples divide the group into companies of 50s and 100s and also the women and children. Some estimates are that the crowd was really about 15, 000 people. They just counted the men. There were 5000 men. He said that when we have something we need to do we need to divide the task up into manageable pieces. The end result will be the same, but the process is a process of faithfulness.
Whether it is putting an extra $20 on each bill or setting your book sales to 10 to 20 books per month. The process is faithfulness. Today one of my author friends celebrated the sale of over 5000 books. (Not everyone is John Grissom so 5000 is huge!) All of the author friends rejoiced with her. She did it one book at a time. Faithfulness..Feeding the 5000!
Today my interview is with Tracey Marley. You will enjoy her story.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
Tracey Marley, author of Promise for Tomorrow
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
That I am real and that I face the same struggles, temptations and trials as the next woman. I am very much a work in progress and it is the through the power of God that I wrote this story and have been able to experience the blessing of watching it become a published reality.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
About seven days after I started my first book! I've always enjoyed journaling and such but when I dreamed the story of Promise for Tomorrow and started to write it down, I couldn't seem to stop. In seven months, I wrote it and the other four, possibly five, rough drafts for the remainder of the series as well as a separate stand alone title.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
Although I write fiction, I like to keep it real. I purposefully write situations and characters that are sometimes sticky and hard to deal with because that's what we face in reality. The Christian life isn't perfect nor will it be this side of Glory. I like to toss in a little humor to lighten things up, but in the end I want my readers to walk away with insights and truths that they can apply to their everyday life.
5. Are you a reader?
Yes. I love reading Christian romances as well as Bible Studies/Self Help books.
6. What are you reading right now?
This Present Darkness, a fiction novel, written in 1986 by Frank E. Peretti. It deals heavily with spiritual warfare which is something I deal with on a regular basis. There is no doubt as to why God kept putting it in front of me time and time again. I am also doing the study When Godly People Do Ungodly Things, by Beth Moore.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
Promise for Tomorrow is the first book in the Heritage House Series. Forgiveness for Yesterday, book two, is what I am currently trying to finish. Where book one teaches the beauty of hope, love and restoration to the broken hearted, book two will teach the cost, gift, and value of God’s forgiveness to the undeserving, and how He expects His children to mirror that forgiveness to others.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
Time is always a struggle because I'm not just a writer. I'm also a pastor's wife, a mom and a graphic designer. In addition to those demands, either right before I write or right after I write I will often go through what is sometimes intense spiritual warfare. Depression, anxiety, doubt, fear, temptation—you name it—can often leave me feeling sidetracked and overwhelmed. I battle against this by surrounding myself with the truth of God's word. The Bible tells me in Isaiah chapter 55, verses 10-11 that: "As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth; It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it." These verses remind me that God has given me a message to share through a story and that as long as I'm obedient to Him, He will bless me.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok) Promise for Tomorrow is the tale of a heart’s journey through the changing seasons of life and how God can bring something beautiful out of the ashes of loss and gives promise for the future—whatever it may bring.
Back cover copy:
Karen McMasters is tired of trying to convince everyone she is okay. It has been five years since the death of her beloved husband, Eric, and time still feels frozen in the past. The only cure for Karen and her children is to move away from the memories of what they have lost. Now living in Greensboro, North Carolina, Karen meets Amanda, a fun and vivacious spirit who dates Chris Lanning, the handsome bachelor with a past that offers more questions than answers. Chris offers an introduction to his best friend Bret Sears, allowing Karen to meet the first man whose Christian ideals match his striking good looks since Eric. Karen feels God’s spirit telling her it is okay to move on with her life, but what about her children and the memory of her loving late husband? As Amanda unearths more of Chris’ mysterious past, Karen searches for ways to minister to her friends while trying to figure out what God’s plan for her includes. What terrible injustice happened to Chris? Will temptation threaten to ruin Karen and Bret? Or will they rise above and seek the assurance God offers them if they listen to his Promise for Tomorrow?
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
My contact is traceymarley@embarqmail.com or traceymarley.tatepublishing.net. Books can be ordered through my website or anywhere books are sold.
It is great to get to know the writers. If you missed one of the past interviews of the talented authors I have been interviewing be sure to visit my blog and catch up. These are interesting people!
the 5000
I was at a meeting last year where the subject was "Feeding the 5000". Perhaps you are an author wondering how you are going to get your book into the hands of the multitudes or you may be someone with a mountain of debt or some other insurmountable task. The speaker that night said that Jesus didn't just plunge in and start feeding everyone. He had the disciples divide the group into companies of 50s and 100s and also the women and children. Some estimates are that the crowd was really about 15, 000 people. They just counted the men. There were 5000 men. He said that when we have something we need to do we need to divide the task up into manageable pieces. The end result will be the same, but the process is a process of faithfulness.
Whether it is putting an extra $20 on each bill or setting your book sales to 10 to 20 books per month. The process is faithfulness. Today one of my author friends celebrated the sale of over 5000 books. (Not everyone is John Grissom so 5000 is huge!) All of the author friends rejoiced with her. She did it one book at a time. Faithfulness..Feeding the 5000!
Today my interview is with Tracey Marley. You will enjoy her story.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
Tracey Marley, author of Promise for Tomorrow
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
That I am real and that I face the same struggles, temptations and trials as the next woman. I am very much a work in progress and it is the through the power of God that I wrote this story and have been able to experience the blessing of watching it become a published reality.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
About seven days after I started my first book! I've always enjoyed journaling and such but when I dreamed the story of Promise for Tomorrow and started to write it down, I couldn't seem to stop. In seven months, I wrote it and the other four, possibly five, rough drafts for the remainder of the series as well as a separate stand alone title.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
Although I write fiction, I like to keep it real. I purposefully write situations and characters that are sometimes sticky and hard to deal with because that's what we face in reality. The Christian life isn't perfect nor will it be this side of Glory. I like to toss in a little humor to lighten things up, but in the end I want my readers to walk away with insights and truths that they can apply to their everyday life.
5. Are you a reader?
Yes. I love reading Christian romances as well as Bible Studies/Self Help books.
6. What are you reading right now?
This Present Darkness, a fiction novel, written in 1986 by Frank E. Peretti. It deals heavily with spiritual warfare which is something I deal with on a regular basis. There is no doubt as to why God kept putting it in front of me time and time again. I am also doing the study When Godly People Do Ungodly Things, by Beth Moore.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
Promise for Tomorrow is the first book in the Heritage House Series. Forgiveness for Yesterday, book two, is what I am currently trying to finish. Where book one teaches the beauty of hope, love and restoration to the broken hearted, book two will teach the cost, gift, and value of God’s forgiveness to the undeserving, and how He expects His children to mirror that forgiveness to others.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
Time is always a struggle because I'm not just a writer. I'm also a pastor's wife, a mom and a graphic designer. In addition to those demands, either right before I write or right after I write I will often go through what is sometimes intense spiritual warfare. Depression, anxiety, doubt, fear, temptation—you name it—can often leave me feeling sidetracked and overwhelmed. I battle against this by surrounding myself with the truth of God's word. The Bible tells me in Isaiah chapter 55, verses 10-11 that: "As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth; It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it." These verses remind me that God has given me a message to share through a story and that as long as I'm obedient to Him, He will bless me.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok) Promise for Tomorrow is the tale of a heart’s journey through the changing seasons of life and how God can bring something beautiful out of the ashes of loss and gives promise for the future—whatever it may bring.
Back cover copy:
Karen McMasters is tired of trying to convince everyone she is okay. It has been five years since the death of her beloved husband, Eric, and time still feels frozen in the past. The only cure for Karen and her children is to move away from the memories of what they have lost. Now living in Greensboro, North Carolina, Karen meets Amanda, a fun and vivacious spirit who dates Chris Lanning, the handsome bachelor with a past that offers more questions than answers. Chris offers an introduction to his best friend Bret Sears, allowing Karen to meet the first man whose Christian ideals match his striking good looks since Eric. Karen feels God’s spirit telling her it is okay to move on with her life, but what about her children and the memory of her loving late husband? As Amanda unearths more of Chris’ mysterious past, Karen searches for ways to minister to her friends while trying to figure out what God’s plan for her includes. What terrible injustice happened to Chris? Will temptation threaten to ruin Karen and Bret? Or will they rise above and seek the assurance God offers them if they listen to his Promise for Tomorrow?
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
My contact is traceymarley@embarqmail.com or traceymarley.tatepublishing.net. Books can be ordered through my website or anywhere books are sold.
It is great to get to know the writers. If you missed one of the past interviews of the talented authors I have been interviewing be sure to visit my blog and catch up. These are interesting people!
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
My "Prown"
I am the sixth of six children in my family. (so is Terry) My brothers and sisters were mostly grown up when I came on the scene. My closest brother in age, Jim, was around 13 yrs older than me. He married young and I was the only child left at home. I had a lot of nieces and nephews to play with and I didn't mind that.
I don't know when my fastination with crowns started. I think it was from the old television show "Queen for a day." I LOVED that show. I didn't care that the lucky woman usually got a new refrigerator and washer. All I cared about was the crown. I also liked the robe, but the crown was the thing. I imagined myself with a crown and that was one of the reasons I was so interested in going to heaven. (I know... shallow ...but I was 4!)
One day, before he got married, Jim, came into our little house with something for me. He had gone to the corner drug store (the name of the store was Corner Drug.) and purchased the most beautiful crown you ever laid your eyes on! It had to have been the largest in the store because I still haven't seen one that size for sale at Walmart or anywhere. It had very nice rhinestones and was perfect. My heart skipped a few beats! He put it on my head and I danced like crazy. I called it my "prown". (Remember, I was 4.) There have been few gifts in my lifetime that have meant as much to me. My old walking doll, Mary, wears it now with jeans and a red top in the corner of my bedroom. My brother, Jim, is a dear friend to me still. We have the best conversations. I love him so much.
My other brother, Maynard, is so attentive to everyone in the family. He remembers birthdays and events. He calls often and gives me the gift of time. He is the greatest! I love him, too.
My sister, Geraldine, is my rock! She is someone I couldn't do without. I love her so much. We have lived in the same town my whole life. There have been few days that I haven't seen her or talked with her. She is so precious.
I have two sisters who have gone to be with the Lord. One, Wanda, left at age 35 in 1976. I still miss her every day. I am able to put my arms around her by holding onto her 5 children and loving on them. The other, Donna, passed away in 2001at age 69. She was always an encouragement. We used to talk a lot on the phone. I miss both of them so much but I can still hear their sweet voices and laughter. I could never forget their singing, laughter, stories and love.
One day I will see them again and I will get my crown. Then I will kneel at the feet of Jesus with all the others and place my crown at His feet because He is worthy of all praise and He is the King.
Today I want to introduce to you Shawna Blalock. She is also a Tate Publishing and Enterprises author. You will find this interview very sweet and interesting.
1. What is your name and the title of your book?
Shawna Blalock That Puppy Dog Took My Boots
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
Most people ask if I have always been good at writing and the answer is yes, they also ask if I always knew I wanted to be a writer and the answer is no.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
A couple of years ago I prayed for a platform to be able to spread God's word and after about 6 months the Lord showed me that writing children's books was how I could spread His word. I have two small children and he is using them to give me stories to write about.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
God has given me the ability to tell stories.(written or spoken)
5. Are you a reader? Somewhat
6. What are you reading right now?
I am reading Boy-Sterous Living by Jean Blackmer
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication?
Tell about it. I actually have 6 more stories written, they are all about my oldest son and the interesting things he says and does. Two or three of them are experiences involving teaching my oldest son about Jesus and that he lives in our hearts.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
For me my biggest obstacle is time. My two sons provide more than enough stories to write on but between being a stay at home mom, taking my oldest to Playschool and running after my 2 year old the day slips by. Oh did I mention housework and dinner for my husband 5 nights a week? I wouldn't change it for the world because I am doing what the Lord is telling me to.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
Jeston is upset! He can't find his favorite pair of cowboy boots. The neighbor's dog, Fred, always liked them too. Did he take them? Author Shawna Blalock brings the reader through Jeston's journey to find out in That Puppy Dog Took My Boots
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books?
My email address is thatpuppydogtookmyboots@netzero.net and you can purchase the book from www.tatepublishing.com or any major bookstore on-line. I also have a facebook fan page www.facebook.com/shawna.blalock and a blog at www.thatpuppydogtookmyboots.blogspot.com
Authors of Children's Books are amazing. If you missed one of the past interviews of the talented authors I have been interviewing be sure to visit my blog and catch up. These was interesting people!
I don't know when my fastination with crowns started. I think it was from the old television show "Queen for a day." I LOVED that show. I didn't care that the lucky woman usually got a new refrigerator and washer. All I cared about was the crown. I also liked the robe, but the crown was the thing. I imagined myself with a crown and that was one of the reasons I was so interested in going to heaven. (I know... shallow ...but I was 4!)
One day, before he got married, Jim, came into our little house with something for me. He had gone to the corner drug store (the name of the store was Corner Drug.) and purchased the most beautiful crown you ever laid your eyes on! It had to have been the largest in the store because I still haven't seen one that size for sale at Walmart or anywhere. It had very nice rhinestones and was perfect. My heart skipped a few beats! He put it on my head and I danced like crazy. I called it my "prown". (Remember, I was 4.) There have been few gifts in my lifetime that have meant as much to me. My old walking doll, Mary, wears it now with jeans and a red top in the corner of my bedroom. My brother, Jim, is a dear friend to me still. We have the best conversations. I love him so much.
My other brother, Maynard, is so attentive to everyone in the family. He remembers birthdays and events. He calls often and gives me the gift of time. He is the greatest! I love him, too.
My sister, Geraldine, is my rock! She is someone I couldn't do without. I love her so much. We have lived in the same town my whole life. There have been few days that I haven't seen her or talked with her. She is so precious.
I have two sisters who have gone to be with the Lord. One, Wanda, left at age 35 in 1976. I still miss her every day. I am able to put my arms around her by holding onto her 5 children and loving on them. The other, Donna, passed away in 2001at age 69. She was always an encouragement. We used to talk a lot on the phone. I miss both of them so much but I can still hear their sweet voices and laughter. I could never forget their singing, laughter, stories and love.
One day I will see them again and I will get my crown. Then I will kneel at the feet of Jesus with all the others and place my crown at His feet because He is worthy of all praise and He is the King.
Today I want to introduce to you Shawna Blalock. She is also a Tate Publishing and Enterprises author. You will find this interview very sweet and interesting.
1. What is your name and the title of your book?
Shawna Blalock That Puppy Dog Took My Boots
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
Most people ask if I have always been good at writing and the answer is yes, they also ask if I always knew I wanted to be a writer and the answer is no.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
A couple of years ago I prayed for a platform to be able to spread God's word and after about 6 months the Lord showed me that writing children's books was how I could spread His word. I have two small children and he is using them to give me stories to write about.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
God has given me the ability to tell stories.(written or spoken)
5. Are you a reader? Somewhat
6. What are you reading right now?
I am reading Boy-Sterous Living by Jean Blackmer
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication?
Tell about it. I actually have 6 more stories written, they are all about my oldest son and the interesting things he says and does. Two or three of them are experiences involving teaching my oldest son about Jesus and that he lives in our hearts.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
For me my biggest obstacle is time. My two sons provide more than enough stories to write on but between being a stay at home mom, taking my oldest to Playschool and running after my 2 year old the day slips by. Oh did I mention housework and dinner for my husband 5 nights a week? I wouldn't change it for the world because I am doing what the Lord is telling me to.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
Jeston is upset! He can't find his favorite pair of cowboy boots. The neighbor's dog, Fred, always liked them too. Did he take them? Author Shawna Blalock brings the reader through Jeston's journey to find out in That Puppy Dog Took My Boots
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books?
My email address is thatpuppydogtookmyboots@netzero.net and you can purchase the book from www.tatepublishing.com or any major bookstore on-line. I also have a facebook fan page www.facebook.com/shawna.blalock and a blog at www.thatpuppydogtookmyboots.blogspot.com
Authors of Children's Books are amazing. If you missed one of the past interviews of the talented authors I have been interviewing be sure to visit my blog and catch up. These was interesting people!
Monday, December 7, 2009
The Christmas Sweater by Glen Beck
The Christmas Sweater by Glen Beck is destined to become a classic. My brother-in-law warned me to be ready to read until the end when I opened the book. I grinned and told him that those kinds of books are my favorite. I have to say that I agree with him. I couldn't stop until I had finished it.
Viewing life from a young boy's perspective was very eye-opening. While some would say that a child is self-absorbed at Christmas time and doesn't appreciate the efforts behind the gifts given to him, I say that we are all like children in that way. Reading this book made me pause and think about the blessings in my life and the many things that I take for granted. I am ashamed to say that even in my adult life I have not appreciated the varied and unusual gifts given to me by my husband. He does try very hard, but seems to miss the mark often.
The Christmas Sweater is a textured story telling of the importance of family, including not only parents, but grandparents as well. Sometimes the message of the wisdom of grandparents gets lost in our day and time. While the story is thoughtful it is also one in which the reader becomes invested in the outcome. I would say that this book is a must read.
Viewing life from a young boy's perspective was very eye-opening. While some would say that a child is self-absorbed at Christmas time and doesn't appreciate the efforts behind the gifts given to him, I say that we are all like children in that way. Reading this book made me pause and think about the blessings in my life and the many things that I take for granted. I am ashamed to say that even in my adult life I have not appreciated the varied and unusual gifts given to me by my husband. He does try very hard, but seems to miss the mark often.
The Christmas Sweater is a textured story telling of the importance of family, including not only parents, but grandparents as well. Sometimes the message of the wisdom of grandparents gets lost in our day and time. While the story is thoughtful it is also one in which the reader becomes invested in the outcome. I would say that this book is a must read.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
The Best Gifts
The best gifts are ones that cannot be opened with your hands. I think that a heart full of love and forgiveness that Terry offers me is just the best gift that one human can give another. Of course the greatest Gift of all is our Lord Jesus.
Now I want to be a little less spiritual for a moment. I remember back when I was 4 yrs old Mother and Daddy gave me a life size "walking doll". She was exactly my size and could wear my clothes. Her official name was Patty Play Pal but I named her Mary. Mama and I didn't change her clothes many times because she wasn't very pliable. It usually turned into a wrestling match between Mama and Mary. Mama liked curly hair and Mary had hair that was as straight as a board. We put curlers in it many times and never made any kind of impact on her hair. I was very jealous of her the first week I had her because Mama and Daddy really seemed to like her a lot. (I felt more than me at times.) I was shy in front of her until it occurred to me that she wasn't real. I put her in bed with me but soon kicked her out because her cold plastic legs and arms never warmed up. They stayed cold. I reminded myself that she was NOT real, again. Would you believe that Mary stands in the corner of my bedroom next to some of the other favorite dolls, Sweetie Pie and Kitty (Yes, I was a Gunsmoke fan...Miss Kitty in particular.) Mary is wearing a little pair of jeans and a red shirt with a beautiful rhinestone crown that my brother bought for me. (That is another story.) I said all of that to say, "Some gifts are for Keeps."
Please read my interview with Emil Kirstein from South Africa.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
Thank you for this interview. My name is Emil Kirstein and I’m from South Africa. The name of my debut novel is Quest for Freedom, and it’s published by Tate Publishing & Enterprises.
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
Maybe the readers would like to know that I’ve got mileage on my odometer and overtime on my clock. Jokes aside, I write from my experiences and real-life lessons that I’ve learned. Though my stories are fiction, I strive for them to be real.
My experience stems from having been in business, a missionary, a Bible teacher and an English teacher in South Africa’s Western Cape Province, Malawi, and South Korea. Currently my wife, Lorna, and I are semi-retired. We focus on writing books and tutoring English, mostly to Koreans studying here in South Africa.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
Since primary school days I’ve been a storyteller, but had never considered sitting down and writing a novel. I felt that I was a missionary and teacher, full stop. I did write a lot of Bible school material and on a few occasions I did consider writing a book on some teachings—but that just never happened. Then about midway into 2006 I was reminded that the greatest teacher, Jesus, was a storyteller. He knew that the vast majority of people are more interested in listening to a story than listening to a teaching—even though a small minority prefers a teaching. Thus my novel was born.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I try to tell a story that’s true to life and has life-lessons embedded in it. I try to tell it simply, but I also try to use good language in the process of telling it. I try to skip the boring parts even though some boring parts are unfortunately necessary to fill in the background and set the scene. The readers will have to judge for themselves whether I’ve been successful in my goals.
5. Are you a reader?
Ironically, no! During my high school days I was an avid reader of Westerns. It took me about two hours to read a cowboy book. Nowadays I like reading study materials like encyclopedias and the like. Rather weird, wouldn’t you say?
6. What are you reading right now?
Please don’t laugh, but I’m busy brushing up on English grammar and South African history. As I said, please don’t laugh.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
Quest for Freedom was the first on the drawing board, and has by God’s grace progressed to the bookstore. From the beginning I’d envisaged a trilogy—continuing with Quest for Life and finishing with Quest for Truth.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
I’m one of those creatures who have difficulty in multitasking. So, when I write, I’d like to be marooned on an island, cut off from the world—but with all the benefits of civilization intact of course. However, that’s simply not possible. So, it’s start up, pause, step back, restart, pause… an endless cycle. I’m quite sure that I’m not the only writer on a quest—a quest for peace and quiet! Therefore, the best time for me to start writing is about 2am! You may check with my beloved wife if you don’t believe me.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
Quest for Freedom is a story about freedom, as the title suggests. It’s a story about relationships— relationships between people and relationship with God. The secondary title expounds on it a bit: Being free amidst life’s ups and downs. The back matter on the book cover reads thus:
Mike and Anne are about to get a divorce. Despite the love between them, the hardships in their lives might be too much for them to take. A fresh start could be the best thing for both of them. Paul and Claire Shaw have a different problem. Paul is a pastor, and Claire is a compassionate wife. After a series of tragedies, however, Paul’s faith in God is severely shaken. What do these couples have in common? They are on a Quest for Freedom from the secrets that have scarred their souls. They are looking for hope despite trauma and turmoil.
Enter Old Charles Young, a man who has a different kind of secret: he has found true freedom from the pain and darkness of his own secrets, trauma, and turmoil. Walk with these couples as they learn that they were made for freedom, regardless of the challenges life hands them.
Author Emil Kirstein’s easy, conversational style allows the reader to become a “fly on the wall” as each character unfolds his or her Quest for Freedom. The real-life lessons they’ve learned provide clues for the characters—and the reader—to find what they are seeking.
In his review, Jim Miller, Marketing Representative of Tate Publishing & Enterprises, said:
Quest for Freedom tells the story of two struggling couples who find hope in the wisdom of an old man they barely know. Emil Kirstein writes with the heart of a pastor and the insight of a counselor. This book is an enjoyable read, but it is also much more than that. It is useful as a companion to pastoral or Christian counseling, a gift for people who are seeking answers for the difficulties in life, and as edification for fellow believers in Christ. The best part about Emil’s writing style is that it is in no way heavy-handed or preachy.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
Readers can contact me at my website, http://kirsteinonline.com. There are links to email me, buy the book, read my blog, connect with me on Facebook, and the like. I welcome feedback from readers. It helps me keep my stories real.
This was a great interview. If you missed one of the past interviews of the talented authors I have been interviewing be sure to visit my blog and catch up. These was interesting people!
Now I want to be a little less spiritual for a moment. I remember back when I was 4 yrs old Mother and Daddy gave me a life size "walking doll". She was exactly my size and could wear my clothes. Her official name was Patty Play Pal but I named her Mary. Mama and I didn't change her clothes many times because she wasn't very pliable. It usually turned into a wrestling match between Mama and Mary. Mama liked curly hair and Mary had hair that was as straight as a board. We put curlers in it many times and never made any kind of impact on her hair. I was very jealous of her the first week I had her because Mama and Daddy really seemed to like her a lot. (I felt more than me at times.) I was shy in front of her until it occurred to me that she wasn't real. I put her in bed with me but soon kicked her out because her cold plastic legs and arms never warmed up. They stayed cold. I reminded myself that she was NOT real, again. Would you believe that Mary stands in the corner of my bedroom next to some of the other favorite dolls, Sweetie Pie and Kitty (Yes, I was a Gunsmoke fan...Miss Kitty in particular.) Mary is wearing a little pair of jeans and a red shirt with a beautiful rhinestone crown that my brother bought for me. (That is another story.) I said all of that to say, "Some gifts are for Keeps."
Please read my interview with Emil Kirstein from South Africa.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
Thank you for this interview. My name is Emil Kirstein and I’m from South Africa. The name of my debut novel is Quest for Freedom, and it’s published by Tate Publishing & Enterprises.
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
Maybe the readers would like to know that I’ve got mileage on my odometer and overtime on my clock. Jokes aside, I write from my experiences and real-life lessons that I’ve learned. Though my stories are fiction, I strive for them to be real.
My experience stems from having been in business, a missionary, a Bible teacher and an English teacher in South Africa’s Western Cape Province, Malawi, and South Korea. Currently my wife, Lorna, and I are semi-retired. We focus on writing books and tutoring English, mostly to Koreans studying here in South Africa.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
Since primary school days I’ve been a storyteller, but had never considered sitting down and writing a novel. I felt that I was a missionary and teacher, full stop. I did write a lot of Bible school material and on a few occasions I did consider writing a book on some teachings—but that just never happened. Then about midway into 2006 I was reminded that the greatest teacher, Jesus, was a storyteller. He knew that the vast majority of people are more interested in listening to a story than listening to a teaching—even though a small minority prefers a teaching. Thus my novel was born.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I try to tell a story that’s true to life and has life-lessons embedded in it. I try to tell it simply, but I also try to use good language in the process of telling it. I try to skip the boring parts even though some boring parts are unfortunately necessary to fill in the background and set the scene. The readers will have to judge for themselves whether I’ve been successful in my goals.
5. Are you a reader?
Ironically, no! During my high school days I was an avid reader of Westerns. It took me about two hours to read a cowboy book. Nowadays I like reading study materials like encyclopedias and the like. Rather weird, wouldn’t you say?
6. What are you reading right now?
Please don’t laugh, but I’m busy brushing up on English grammar and South African history. As I said, please don’t laugh.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
Quest for Freedom was the first on the drawing board, and has by God’s grace progressed to the bookstore. From the beginning I’d envisaged a trilogy—continuing with Quest for Life and finishing with Quest for Truth.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
I’m one of those creatures who have difficulty in multitasking. So, when I write, I’d like to be marooned on an island, cut off from the world—but with all the benefits of civilization intact of course. However, that’s simply not possible. So, it’s start up, pause, step back, restart, pause… an endless cycle. I’m quite sure that I’m not the only writer on a quest—a quest for peace and quiet! Therefore, the best time for me to start writing is about 2am! You may check with my beloved wife if you don’t believe me.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
Quest for Freedom is a story about freedom, as the title suggests. It’s a story about relationships— relationships between people and relationship with God. The secondary title expounds on it a bit: Being free amidst life’s ups and downs. The back matter on the book cover reads thus:
Mike and Anne are about to get a divorce. Despite the love between them, the hardships in their lives might be too much for them to take. A fresh start could be the best thing for both of them. Paul and Claire Shaw have a different problem. Paul is a pastor, and Claire is a compassionate wife. After a series of tragedies, however, Paul’s faith in God is severely shaken. What do these couples have in common? They are on a Quest for Freedom from the secrets that have scarred their souls. They are looking for hope despite trauma and turmoil.
Enter Old Charles Young, a man who has a different kind of secret: he has found true freedom from the pain and darkness of his own secrets, trauma, and turmoil. Walk with these couples as they learn that they were made for freedom, regardless of the challenges life hands them.
Author Emil Kirstein’s easy, conversational style allows the reader to become a “fly on the wall” as each character unfolds his or her Quest for Freedom. The real-life lessons they’ve learned provide clues for the characters—and the reader—to find what they are seeking.
In his review, Jim Miller, Marketing Representative of Tate Publishing & Enterprises, said:
Quest for Freedom tells the story of two struggling couples who find hope in the wisdom of an old man they barely know. Emil Kirstein writes with the heart of a pastor and the insight of a counselor. This book is an enjoyable read, but it is also much more than that. It is useful as a companion to pastoral or Christian counseling, a gift for people who are seeking answers for the difficulties in life, and as edification for fellow believers in Christ. The best part about Emil’s writing style is that it is in no way heavy-handed or preachy.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
Readers can contact me at my website, http://kirsteinonline.com. There are links to email me, buy the book, read my blog, connect with me on Facebook, and the like. I welcome feedback from readers. It helps me keep my stories real.
This was a great interview. If you missed one of the past interviews of the talented authors I have been interviewing be sure to visit my blog and catch up. These was interesting people!
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving
I know we have heard this over and over again. We need to be thankful for every day. This becomes reality when we realize that there are so many things we take for granted such as health, family, friends, freedom, and our Lord.
I have been attempting to treat people as if this might be the last time I see them. (minus the tears and clingy hugs) I ask myself, "Would I be glad these were my last words to my friend or loved one?" I have had too many of these last conversations. Happily, I haven't had any regrets. I want to be thankful for all the people in my life.
As far as my health. Thank God I have been living with many more painless days than I have in a very long time. I will never take pain-free days for granted again.
Freedom is always to be treasured. I am so grateful to the men and women in our past and present military for putting themselves on the line for me. Thank you so much.
Then there is my Lord, my Savior, Jesus Christ. I am so thankful for Him. He has been my best friend every since I was a little kid. I love Him so much.
Thankful, thankful, thankful...that is one thing I want to be remembered for.
Today I am sending you the interview I did with Matthew DeBettencourt . He has written a book that is exciting.
1. What is your name and the title of your book?
My name is Matthew DeBettencourt. My first published work is a juvenile fiction novel titled The Island of Time: The Journal of Randy Carr.
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
It usually impresses people to know I wrote this book in High School. It was dedicated to the three people in my English class my sophomore year, and my cousin, who read some of my work before anyone else, convincing me to keep writing.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
It's sounds silly, but keep in mind I'm from the second Nintendo generation. I used to write as early as second grade, with very short stories that were often accompanied by a single page drawing (my older brother would help me with), but what really got me into writing was a TV show. When I was home-schooled, my older brothers had to get ready for public high school, and every morning we'd watch the same show just before they left for the bus: "Pokemon". It was new to America at the time, and the story behind it just interested me. So my first "manuscript" (a complete rip-off of Pokemon--which will never be released) was about the same length as The Island of Time, filling four notebooks of paper. I completed it within a year and half (and I even stole some names from it for The Island of Time, like Joe Young). But that was how I got into writing fiction.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
My writing style has a lot of dialogue. I find myself describing more in the dialogue than I do in the paragraphs in between. Not sure if that's a strong point or a weakness, really.
5. Are you a reader?
I used to read a LOT when I was growing up. I don't make enough time for it right now, but I've gradually gotten back into reading for pleasure.
6. What are you reading right now?
I'm juggling a few books right now "The Stakes Are High" by Dennis R. Ray, and "Persuasion" by Jane Austen are among them.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I do, actually I'm very excited about a couple projects I have working, the continuation to The Island of Time included.
It's called The Island of Legends Past, and I don't feel inclined to reveal anything about it.
I'm also working on a project (as of yet untitled) about Big Brothers Big Sisters, and I'm working on getting support from the Hartford division "Nutmeg Big Brothers Big Sisters".
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
My biggest obstacle is making time to write when I have the desire to write. In high school, with The Island of Time, my most brilliant cure for this was Index Cards. I filled several stacks of index cards with paragraphs and quotes--"excerpts" of what would eventually be the book. Any time I got a great idea, usually in the form of dialogue or a good description of a person or place, it went on an index card, at home, in math class, at work, wherever I was. (My notebook went--and STILL goes with me--everywhere).
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
How do you determine the killer of a man who doesn't exist?
That's just the question Strawberry Sundae Investigations faces in Matt DeBettencourt's The Island of Time: The Journal of Randy Carr. This gripping tale follows Dawn and Taran, two lovers on important missions. Set in an age of hover cars and androids, Dawn, a detective, must help the Sundaes investigate the murder of a man found dead above an antique shop. Despite advanced methods of crime-solving, the Sundaes are unable to find the identity of the murder victim, who doesn't seem to exist on any governmental database.
Meanwhile, Dawn's fiancé, Taran, is working on a time-travel experiment for Karz Corporation. When a glitch in Taran's machine leaves him stranded on an island in the past, he begins to set up a new civilization by bringing people from the future to the island—setting in motion a chain of events with a suspiciously familiar outcome.
As events in the two times become intertwined, everyone will find that things are far more complicated than they realized.
Unlock the mystery when you travel to The Island of Time
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
Readers can find my book on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other online vendors.
They could go to the Tate Publishing website and order from there: http://www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore/book.php?w=978-1-60604-647-0
Or for a personalized copy from me, I can be contacted through Facebook, MySpace, or email.
F.B. http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Island-of-Time/75719674486
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/TheIslandofTime
email: md3b3tt@yahoo.com
If you missed one of the past interviews of the talented authors I have been interviewing be sure to visit my blog and catch up. These was interesting people!
http://nansjourney.blogspot.com
See you next week. I hope you enjoyed this newsletter. Tell your friends to subscribe at http://elainelittau.com
I know we have heard this over and over again. We need to be thankful for every day. This becomes reality when we realize that there are so many things we take for granted such as health, family, friends, freedom, and our Lord.
I have been attempting to treat people as if this might be the last time I see them. (minus the tears and clingy hugs) I ask myself, "Would I be glad these were my last words to my friend or loved one?" I have had too many of these last conversations. Happily, I haven't had any regrets. I want to be thankful for all the people in my life.
As far as my health. Thank God I have been living with many more painless days than I have in a very long time. I will never take pain-free days for granted again.
Freedom is always to be treasured. I am so grateful to the men and women in our past and present military for putting themselves on the line for me. Thank you so much.
Then there is my Lord, my Savior, Jesus Christ. I am so thankful for Him. He has been my best friend every since I was a little kid. I love Him so much.
Thankful, thankful, thankful...that is one thing I want to be remembered for.
Today I am sending you the interview I did with Matthew DeBettencourt . He has written a book that is exciting.
1. What is your name and the title of your book?
My name is Matthew DeBettencourt. My first published work is a juvenile fiction novel titled The Island of Time: The Journal of Randy Carr.
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
It usually impresses people to know I wrote this book in High School. It was dedicated to the three people in my English class my sophomore year, and my cousin, who read some of my work before anyone else, convincing me to keep writing.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
It's sounds silly, but keep in mind I'm from the second Nintendo generation. I used to write as early as second grade, with very short stories that were often accompanied by a single page drawing (my older brother would help me with), but what really got me into writing was a TV show. When I was home-schooled, my older brothers had to get ready for public high school, and every morning we'd watch the same show just before they left for the bus: "Pokemon". It was new to America at the time, and the story behind it just interested me. So my first "manuscript" (a complete rip-off of Pokemon--which will never be released) was about the same length as The Island of Time, filling four notebooks of paper. I completed it within a year and half (and I even stole some names from it for The Island of Time, like Joe Young). But that was how I got into writing fiction.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
My writing style has a lot of dialogue. I find myself describing more in the dialogue than I do in the paragraphs in between. Not sure if that's a strong point or a weakness, really.
5. Are you a reader?
I used to read a LOT when I was growing up. I don't make enough time for it right now, but I've gradually gotten back into reading for pleasure.
6. What are you reading right now?
I'm juggling a few books right now "The Stakes Are High" by Dennis R. Ray, and "Persuasion" by Jane Austen are among them.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I do, actually I'm very excited about a couple projects I have working, the continuation to The Island of Time included.
It's called The Island of Legends Past, and I don't feel inclined to reveal anything about it.
I'm also working on a project (as of yet untitled) about Big Brothers Big Sisters, and I'm working on getting support from the Hartford division "Nutmeg Big Brothers Big Sisters".
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
My biggest obstacle is making time to write when I have the desire to write. In high school, with The Island of Time, my most brilliant cure for this was Index Cards. I filled several stacks of index cards with paragraphs and quotes--"excerpts" of what would eventually be the book. Any time I got a great idea, usually in the form of dialogue or a good description of a person or place, it went on an index card, at home, in math class, at work, wherever I was. (My notebook went--and STILL goes with me--everywhere).
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
How do you determine the killer of a man who doesn't exist?
That's just the question Strawberry Sundae Investigations faces in Matt DeBettencourt's The Island of Time: The Journal of Randy Carr. This gripping tale follows Dawn and Taran, two lovers on important missions. Set in an age of hover cars and androids, Dawn, a detective, must help the Sundaes investigate the murder of a man found dead above an antique shop. Despite advanced methods of crime-solving, the Sundaes are unable to find the identity of the murder victim, who doesn't seem to exist on any governmental database.
Meanwhile, Dawn's fiancé, Taran, is working on a time-travel experiment for Karz Corporation. When a glitch in Taran's machine leaves him stranded on an island in the past, he begins to set up a new civilization by bringing people from the future to the island—setting in motion a chain of events with a suspiciously familiar outcome.
As events in the two times become intertwined, everyone will find that things are far more complicated than they realized.
Unlock the mystery when you travel to The Island of Time
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
Readers can find my book on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other online vendors.
They could go to the Tate Publishing website and order from there: http://www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore/book.php?w=978-1-60604-647-0
Or for a personalized copy from me, I can be contacted through Facebook, MySpace, or email.
F.B. http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Island-of-Time/75719674486
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/TheIslandofTime
email: md3b3tt@yahoo.com
If you missed one of the past interviews of the talented authors I have been interviewing be sure to visit my blog and catch up. These was interesting people!
http://nansjourney.blogspot.com
See you next week. I hope you enjoyed this newsletter. Tell your friends to subscribe at http://elainelittau.com
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
What Difference Do It Make? by Ron Hall, Denver Moore, and Lynn Vincent
What Difference Do It Make? by Ron Hall, Denver Moore, and Lynn Vincent follows the best-seller Same Kind of Difference as Me. It is a story that challenges deep seated beliefs about people and even places. The friendship between Ron Hall and Denver Moore is unexpected. Ron was a successful fine art dealer and Denver was homeless in Fort Worth, Texas. How could such a friendship be forged? In part, it was through the life and love of Ron's wife, Deborah. The other part was through the plans of God.
I found the parallel lives of Ron and Denver interesting. If things had occurred just a bit differently Ron would have been on the street with Denver. It amazes me that one or two decisions can make that much difference. However, the book is not about Ron's good decisions in providing for his life as much as it is to getting out of one's own skin and reaching out to someone else. Ron is very clear in voicing his doubts and reservations about helping the homeless. He admits what many of us refuse to admit, that most of us feel that it is okay to do something - just don't mess with my personal life.
In reaching out and developing his friendship with Denver, Ron is able to look at his father in a different light. He learns acceptance and how to express love. This is bound to be another best-seller.
Elaine Littau, author of Nan's Journey and Elk's Resolve
I found the parallel lives of Ron and Denver interesting. If things had occurred just a bit differently Ron would have been on the street with Denver. It amazes me that one or two decisions can make that much difference. However, the book is not about Ron's good decisions in providing for his life as much as it is to getting out of one's own skin and reaching out to someone else. Ron is very clear in voicing his doubts and reservations about helping the homeless. He admits what many of us refuse to admit, that most of us feel that it is okay to do something - just don't mess with my personal life.
In reaching out and developing his friendship with Denver, Ron is able to look at his father in a different light. He learns acceptance and how to express love. This is bound to be another best-seller.
Elaine Littau, author of Nan's Journey and Elk's Resolve
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Holiday Season
The Holiday Season is upon us. Soon Thanksgiving will be here and then Christmas. It is time for not only shopping, but reflection. How do we want our families to remember the holidays with us. Will they remember a frazzeled mother/grandmother, a stressed out dad/grandfather, laughter or arguments from the siblings and grandchildren. One thing I am going to attempt this year is not striving for perfection. My kids know I am not perfect and so do my sweet daughters-in-law. Don't tell the grandkids they aren't aware yet.
Let us remember the reason for the season...even the Thanksgiving season.
Today I am sending you the interview I did with Kimberly Thompson.
She has written a book that moves your heart.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
My name is Kimberly Thompson; the title of my book is Gypsy Phoenix: A Birthright of Hope.
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I think the one thing that readers might want to know, is that I overcame obstacles in my life which were purposed to destroy me, but only made me stronger - and that I believe everyone can do the same.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I've always written, ever since I learned how. I've written Haiku, poetry (rhyming and freeverse), short stories, and also have other books in the works. I've always wanted to write.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
My strongest points are that 1) I'm "brutally honest" about everything, including my own faults, 2) I make the reader feel as if they are sitting with me, listening to me tell my tale, and 3) I don't try to dazzle anyone with huge words that would have to be defined before reading more.
5. Are you a reader?
Oh yes! I'm definitely a reader! I have daily devotional time that I spend with the Lord in reading His Word, every day. Usually at night when I go to bed, it's with a book - whether it's poetry or fiction or history, I love to read!
6. What are you reading right now?
Right now, I'm reading "The Island of Time: The Journal of Randy Carr", published by Tate Publishing and authored by Matthew Debettencourt of Southbridge, MA. It's a fast-paced, futuristic science-fiction fantasy novel... very intriguing!
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
Yes, I have several. Actually, one is a children's book about adoption that I submitted as a contest entry a few years back. It wasn't chosen, so I just kept it. It's only about thirty pages long, and there are no illustrations, yet. The second one is a fantasy novel that I've been working on and tweaking since I was 18 years old. A friend and I started it, but never finished it. I'm thinking now, that it should be done in short-story form, for children. I also have numerous poems and Haikus written... but I've not decided to have them published... just yet. I have so many recipes that I've started typing them and printing them out. I have friends that ask for my recipes every time I cook for a special event, so I keep them on my computer and print them out when I need them - I'm thinking now, a cookbook may be in order!
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
My biggest obstacle to writing is time - I have very little of it. I work a full-time job, we have an orchard to care for, one child (of five) left at home, a house to run, I'm a "gg", and I'm also a Certified NRA Instructor for Basic Pistol classes - a handgun safety course. I overcome this obstacle by taking the time necessary - TAKING the time, not making the time. While clothes are washing, instead of dusting or vacuuming, I take the time to write, when I can. Things like that... I call it "stealing time". Sometimes I have to stay up late to write, but when the muse hits... well, you know how it is when you're on a roll!
9. Please put a description of each of your books here.
I only have one published at this time, so here it is. Gypsy Phoenix: A Birthright of Hope "It was a tiny scrap of paper, faded and yellow, with answers to my past written all over it. Why would she save this? 'We thought you might want to find her one day. She sent a message to you; she said to tell you that she loves you very much, and she didn't want to leave you.' Growing up with the broiling heat and frequently unpredictable tropical weather of Louisiana was the easy part; not knowing who she was or where she came from was the hard part. In Gypsy Phoenix, author Kimberly Thompson recalls her life-to-date through pain, tears, and ultimate joy. Relinquished at birth, Kimberly lived life into her thirties always lacking what she truly wished for—answers about her past. But afraid of hurting her adoptive parents, she waits thirty-two years before the embers that have been smoldering within ignite, threatening to devour her completely. Watch Kimberly's story unfold as she discovers unconditional love and forgiveness, which finally offer the freedom to take flight like a Gypsy Phoenix. Having spent many years in ignorance of her heritage, and without the gospel of truth to guide her life, she has finally come full circle to the revelation of who she is and where she began. Whether you have experienced adoption personally or just someone you know, this powerful story will speak to the lost and encourage those who have questions to continue seeking answers."
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
Readers can contact me on my FaceBook fan page to order... http://www.facebook.com/people/Kimberly-Thompson/100000290615969#/pages/Gypsy-Phoenix-A-Birthright-of-Hope/158557400129?ref=nf They can order directly from Tate Publishing... http://www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore/book.php?w=978-1-61566-192-3 And they can contact me at my email addresses: 1) ggzplace@yahoo.com2) boudica.rebels@gmail.com
If you missed one of the past interviews of the talented authors I have been interviewing be sure to visit my blog and catch up. These was interesting people!
Let us remember the reason for the season...even the Thanksgiving season.
Today I am sending you the interview I did with Kimberly Thompson.
She has written a book that moves your heart.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
My name is Kimberly Thompson; the title of my book is Gypsy Phoenix: A Birthright of Hope.
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I think the one thing that readers might want to know, is that I overcame obstacles in my life which were purposed to destroy me, but only made me stronger - and that I believe everyone can do the same.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I've always written, ever since I learned how. I've written Haiku, poetry (rhyming and freeverse), short stories, and also have other books in the works. I've always wanted to write.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
My strongest points are that 1) I'm "brutally honest" about everything, including my own faults, 2) I make the reader feel as if they are sitting with me, listening to me tell my tale, and 3) I don't try to dazzle anyone with huge words that would have to be defined before reading more.
5. Are you a reader?
Oh yes! I'm definitely a reader! I have daily devotional time that I spend with the Lord in reading His Word, every day. Usually at night when I go to bed, it's with a book - whether it's poetry or fiction or history, I love to read!
6. What are you reading right now?
Right now, I'm reading "The Island of Time: The Journal of Randy Carr", published by Tate Publishing and authored by Matthew Debettencourt of Southbridge, MA. It's a fast-paced, futuristic science-fiction fantasy novel... very intriguing!
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
Yes, I have several. Actually, one is a children's book about adoption that I submitted as a contest entry a few years back. It wasn't chosen, so I just kept it. It's only about thirty pages long, and there are no illustrations, yet. The second one is a fantasy novel that I've been working on and tweaking since I was 18 years old. A friend and I started it, but never finished it. I'm thinking now, that it should be done in short-story form, for children. I also have numerous poems and Haikus written... but I've not decided to have them published... just yet. I have so many recipes that I've started typing them and printing them out. I have friends that ask for my recipes every time I cook for a special event, so I keep them on my computer and print them out when I need them - I'm thinking now, a cookbook may be in order!
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
My biggest obstacle to writing is time - I have very little of it. I work a full-time job, we have an orchard to care for, one child (of five) left at home, a house to run, I'm a "gg", and I'm also a Certified NRA Instructor for Basic Pistol classes - a handgun safety course. I overcome this obstacle by taking the time necessary - TAKING the time, not making the time. While clothes are washing, instead of dusting or vacuuming, I take the time to write, when I can. Things like that... I call it "stealing time". Sometimes I have to stay up late to write, but when the muse hits... well, you know how it is when you're on a roll!
9. Please put a description of each of your books here.
I only have one published at this time, so here it is. Gypsy Phoenix: A Birthright of Hope "It was a tiny scrap of paper, faded and yellow, with answers to my past written all over it. Why would she save this? 'We thought you might want to find her one day. She sent a message to you; she said to tell you that she loves you very much, and she didn't want to leave you.' Growing up with the broiling heat and frequently unpredictable tropical weather of Louisiana was the easy part; not knowing who she was or where she came from was the hard part. In Gypsy Phoenix, author Kimberly Thompson recalls her life-to-date through pain, tears, and ultimate joy. Relinquished at birth, Kimberly lived life into her thirties always lacking what she truly wished for—answers about her past. But afraid of hurting her adoptive parents, she waits thirty-two years before the embers that have been smoldering within ignite, threatening to devour her completely. Watch Kimberly's story unfold as she discovers unconditional love and forgiveness, which finally offer the freedom to take flight like a Gypsy Phoenix. Having spent many years in ignorance of her heritage, and without the gospel of truth to guide her life, she has finally come full circle to the revelation of who she is and where she began. Whether you have experienced adoption personally or just someone you know, this powerful story will speak to the lost and encourage those who have questions to continue seeking answers."
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
Readers can contact me on my FaceBook fan page to order... http://www.facebook.com/people/Kimberly-Thompson/100000290615969#/pages/Gypsy-Phoenix-A-Birthright-of-Hope/158557400129?ref=nf They can order directly from Tate Publishing... http://www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore/book.php?w=978-1-61566-192-3 And they can contact me at my email addresses: 1) ggzplace@yahoo.com2) boudica.rebels@gmail.com
If you missed one of the past interviews of the talented authors I have been interviewing be sure to visit my blog and catch up. These was interesting people!
Monday, November 9, 2009
Gypsy Phoenix, A Birthright of Hope by Kimberly Thompson
Gypsy Phoenix, A Birthright of Hope by Kimberly Thompson is a true story about an American girl caught between two families. From her earliest years of life Kim had questions about her birth and adoption. Although her adoptive parents never hid the fact that she was adopted, the specific details were never given to her.
This is the story of one little girl growing up with mental and physical abuse and many questions. If it hadn't been for the love of her grandparents it is doubtful that she would have survived.
Her life as a young adult began on a downward spiral and it is remarkable that she emerged with a sane mind. After many years of searching she emerged with a love for God and finally the answers she looked for her entire life. It is a gripping story full of pain, loss, love, and hope.
Elaine Littau, author of Nan's Journey and Elk's Resolve
This is the story of one little girl growing up with mental and physical abuse and many questions. If it hadn't been for the love of her grandparents it is doubtful that she would have survived.
Her life as a young adult began on a downward spiral and it is remarkable that she emerged with a sane mind. After many years of searching she emerged with a love for God and finally the answers she looked for her entire life. It is a gripping story full of pain, loss, love, and hope.
Elaine Littau, author of Nan's Journey and Elk's Resolve
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Island of Time by Matthew DeBettencourt
Last night I finished reading the Juvenile Fiction, Fantasy and Magic work of Matthew DeBettencourt. "The Island of Time, The Journal of Randy Carr" was a real treat. Set in both the future and the past the story is full of imagination and intrigue. The main characters, Dawn and Taran, seem to be on different paths. I wondered why they were engaged. What did they have in common? Did Dawn understand Taran's mission? Why didn't Taran take Dawn's work seriously? As the story unfolds those questions are answered as the couple finds themselves in what would normally be a hopeless situation. The book is also a study on group dynamics and individual character development. Mr. DeBettencourt did a great job on this book.
Elaine Littau, author of Nan's Journey and Elk's Resolve
Elaine Littau, author of Nan's Journey and Elk's Resolve
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Encouragement
Encouragement
Have you ever thought of the value of encouragement? Webster's definition is:to give courage, hope, or confidence to: embolden, hearten.
Discourage is: to deprive of courage, hope, or confidence, dishearten.
How are we able to give courage? One way is to look at someone and tell them what you see in them. Sometimes people are so blind to their strengths that you need to be their mirror. Have you ever seen one of those plastic surgery shows where a beautiful girl comes in and is sure that her nose is awful? You look and can't figure out what is wrong but she has studied her "flaw" so long that she cannot see anything else.
I am amazed at the need for encouragement in our day and time. People that you would think have all the confidence in the world need encouragement. It is one thing that we can give that costs us nothing. I think that sometimes we withhold compliments and things of that nature to keep our friend from "getting the big head". The trouble with that is that it is much harder to obtain courage than discouragement.
John Maxwell was speaking with Joyce Meyer on her show about his father and mother moving to a retirement trailer park in Florida. John had asked his dad to slow down on travel so his dad decided to begin a ministry of encouragement. John asked him who had put him in charge of this. His dad said that no one else was doing it so he might as well. After some time had passed John went back to see his folks. Their phone was ringing off the hook. People were calling in for prayer. His dad kept his cell phone with him and made his rounds in a golf cart. He visited his neighbors and was overseeing encouragers in dozens of senior trailer parks in the area. God bless that man! His ministry is so needed. Look at where you are. What can you do?
Today I am sending you the interview I did with Jennifer A. Carle. She has written a book that I think we could all learn from.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
Jennifer A. Carle~ Finally Winsome;
Face of Prozac;
Becoming Waldo
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?I feel that if I have knowledge about something that I found particularly hard to deal with, it is my duty to share what I know so others don't have to go through what I have.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I don't think this is really my calling, but more of a path in the road to my final dream which is to create a foundation for injured domestic animals to be able to get proper medical care when the owners can't afford it. I don't think anyone should have to choose between caring for a pet or euthanizing it because of financial difficulties.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I write just like I speak. People who know me that read my books say they often feel as though they are sitting next me listening to one of my stories. I am very funny in an offbeat, self depreciating way which readers tend to identify with.
5. Are you a reader?
Yep!
6. What are you reading right now?
I'm doing research on Narcissistic Personality Disorder for book number 5. That stuff is so overwhelming and unsettling I need to unplug with trashy stuff like People magazine!
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication?
Tell about it. I just, this morning, submitted a manuscript idea for a book on breaking the cycle of Narcissistic Personality Disorder. It can go on for generations. Interestingly enough, the daughter of the narcissistic mother says that she'll never be like her mom. The daughter becomes a mother and becomes narcissistic because that's all she knows to do. Whether she behaves like her mother or not is not really relevant. Interesting and powerful stuff that surely will not make me the favorite of my family, but I'm pretty used to that by now.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
Facebook addiction; lack of motivation; kids downloading songs on my computer. Walk my dog around the neighborhood for a couple of miles until an idea hits me between the eyes (or go on facebook and write about my laziness on my wall!)
9. Please put a description of each of your books here.
My book Finally Winsome is about a dog that I adopted from the SPCA that I thought was charming and sweet because of how she looked in her cage. She was probably abused and was very distrusting of others and extremely protective of me. Winn becomes protective of the entire family, and as she gets older, she begins to relax and need protection from me. 100% of the proceeds from the sale of this book go to the Maryland SPCA or other shelters.
A Face of Prozac is about my journey through eating disorders, anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder which is like PMS x a billion. No one diagnosed me for years with PMDD. I finally snapped and was looking for an inpatient program for myself at a local mental hospital. WebMD popped up with a questionnaire, and lo and behold, I diagnosed myself and found a terrific psychiatrist. For all of my diagnoses and issues, Prozac was the only thing that saved me (and continues to) from myself.
Becoming Waldo is a book about my new dog that I adopted from the SPCA. He seemed so laid back and comfortable with himself. I thought I could be a better person if I became more like my dog. As it turns out, Waldo and I are more alike than we ever would have guessed. 100% of the proceeds from the sale of this book go to the Maryland SPCA or other shelters.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
My website and blog are a work in progress; so for right now, use my email address: jacimac618@aol.com and put that you are interested in my book in the subject matter. Alternatively, I am on facebook, but I have no idea what the address is.
Have you ever thought of the value of encouragement? Webster's definition is:to give courage, hope, or confidence to: embolden, hearten.
Discourage is: to deprive of courage, hope, or confidence, dishearten.
How are we able to give courage? One way is to look at someone and tell them what you see in them. Sometimes people are so blind to their strengths that you need to be their mirror. Have you ever seen one of those plastic surgery shows where a beautiful girl comes in and is sure that her nose is awful? You look and can't figure out what is wrong but she has studied her "flaw" so long that she cannot see anything else.
I am amazed at the need for encouragement in our day and time. People that you would think have all the confidence in the world need encouragement. It is one thing that we can give that costs us nothing. I think that sometimes we withhold compliments and things of that nature to keep our friend from "getting the big head". The trouble with that is that it is much harder to obtain courage than discouragement.
John Maxwell was speaking with Joyce Meyer on her show about his father and mother moving to a retirement trailer park in Florida. John had asked his dad to slow down on travel so his dad decided to begin a ministry of encouragement. John asked him who had put him in charge of this. His dad said that no one else was doing it so he might as well. After some time had passed John went back to see his folks. Their phone was ringing off the hook. People were calling in for prayer. His dad kept his cell phone with him and made his rounds in a golf cart. He visited his neighbors and was overseeing encouragers in dozens of senior trailer parks in the area. God bless that man! His ministry is so needed. Look at where you are. What can you do?
Today I am sending you the interview I did with Jennifer A. Carle. She has written a book that I think we could all learn from.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
Jennifer A. Carle~ Finally Winsome;
Face of Prozac;
Becoming Waldo
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?I feel that if I have knowledge about something that I found particularly hard to deal with, it is my duty to share what I know so others don't have to go through what I have.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I don't think this is really my calling, but more of a path in the road to my final dream which is to create a foundation for injured domestic animals to be able to get proper medical care when the owners can't afford it. I don't think anyone should have to choose between caring for a pet or euthanizing it because of financial difficulties.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I write just like I speak. People who know me that read my books say they often feel as though they are sitting next me listening to one of my stories. I am very funny in an offbeat, self depreciating way which readers tend to identify with.
5. Are you a reader?
Yep!
6. What are you reading right now?
I'm doing research on Narcissistic Personality Disorder for book number 5. That stuff is so overwhelming and unsettling I need to unplug with trashy stuff like People magazine!
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication?
Tell about it. I just, this morning, submitted a manuscript idea for a book on breaking the cycle of Narcissistic Personality Disorder. It can go on for generations. Interestingly enough, the daughter of the narcissistic mother says that she'll never be like her mom. The daughter becomes a mother and becomes narcissistic because that's all she knows to do. Whether she behaves like her mother or not is not really relevant. Interesting and powerful stuff that surely will not make me the favorite of my family, but I'm pretty used to that by now.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
Facebook addiction; lack of motivation; kids downloading songs on my computer. Walk my dog around the neighborhood for a couple of miles until an idea hits me between the eyes (or go on facebook and write about my laziness on my wall!)
9. Please put a description of each of your books here.
My book Finally Winsome is about a dog that I adopted from the SPCA that I thought was charming and sweet because of how she looked in her cage. She was probably abused and was very distrusting of others and extremely protective of me. Winn becomes protective of the entire family, and as she gets older, she begins to relax and need protection from me. 100% of the proceeds from the sale of this book go to the Maryland SPCA or other shelters.
A Face of Prozac is about my journey through eating disorders, anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder which is like PMS x a billion. No one diagnosed me for years with PMDD. I finally snapped and was looking for an inpatient program for myself at a local mental hospital. WebMD popped up with a questionnaire, and lo and behold, I diagnosed myself and found a terrific psychiatrist. For all of my diagnoses and issues, Prozac was the only thing that saved me (and continues to) from myself.
Becoming Waldo is a book about my new dog that I adopted from the SPCA. He seemed so laid back and comfortable with himself. I thought I could be a better person if I became more like my dog. As it turns out, Waldo and I are more alike than we ever would have guessed. 100% of the proceeds from the sale of this book go to the Maryland SPCA or other shelters.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
My website and blog are a work in progress; so for right now, use my email address: jacimac618@aol.com and put that you are interested in my book in the subject matter. Alternatively, I am on facebook, but I have no idea what the address is.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Baking Cookies With Sierra
My Daughter-in-law, Aimee, lets me know the cute things that my grandchildren do and say. (They are her and Stephen's children but that isn't the important part. The important part is that they are my grandkids.) Not long ago 4 yr old Sierra was baking cookies with her Grandma Baker, (Yes, there is another Grandma. I will deal with it. ha ha) Sierra told her other grandma Baker that Grandmalaine stirs up good cookies and lets her use a knife. (?)
Okay...I use slice and bake cookies for the grandkids. When I stirred up cookies from scratch, the kids got bored so I buy a good tasting short cut. I promise I didn't let the baby have a knife. She saw me cut them with a knife. I think she got confused. That's my story and I'm stickin' to it.
Please read this interview with new author, D.G. Flamand
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
My author name is D. G. Flamand
2. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I was 7 years old when I wrote my first short story. I realized then that I would like to do that full time. I submitted my first stories to a publishing house when I was 19 but that didn't go anywhere. Nonetheless, I kept writing for many years afterwards. I also became a fanatic of the game of chess and I played the game of chess at least 2,000 times. While playing the game of chess, my writings improved drastically. I conceived new ideas, new characters, new plots, and new stories. Today I'm brimming of ideas and projects to write. I'm 50 today.
3. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I think I can conceive interesting new characters, plots, story lines,
and stories.
4. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I have several writing projects that I'm working on. One series is called - Tommy and the Magic Dictionary Series. This is a series of books I will be writing. It is about a six-year old boy named Tommy. Tommy wants to learn everything and he envies grownups because they know so much. Then Tommy receives a dictionary for his sixth birthday from his grandpa. No one knew that it was a magic dictionary. His father placed the dictionary on his dresser in his bedroom when Tommy went to bed. But that night Tommy couldn't sleep. While staring at the ceiling when in his bed, Tommy spoke into the empty room. And without realizing it, he uttered the magic secret that brought the magic dictionary back to life! The Magic Dictionary contains all knowledge that exist and he wants to share his knowledge with everyone. Tommy wants to learn everything and right now! So Tommy and the Magic Dictionary become best friends. From that point on, every day the Magic Dictionary teaches new things to Tommy. The title of the first book is - Tommy and the Butterflies. So the Magic Dictionary teaches Tommy about butterflies. The second book of this series starts production in a few days - beginning of October. I have 5 manuscripts fully written and ready for publication and 8 others in progress. I will be writing numerous book for this series. This series is for juvenile but anyone would like to read this series. It is full of magic, new magic, new characters, new plots, and new stories. There is no destruction of any kind in my books. And they are very positive and kids will learn new things. The first book of my second series will be completed in about 6 weeks from now. The title of this series is - The Little Cloud Series. The title of the first book is - The Little Cloud and his New Friends. This series is about the smallest cloud in the sky who is being told by all the bigger clouds to be careful because there are big winds in the sky. The Little Cloud reassures all the big clouds that there are no worries that he can float in all kind of winds. But one day a big wind pushed the Little Cloud and the Little Cloud lost control of his floating. The Little Cloud was pushed down to earth near Tiny Town. And it is there that the Little Cloud met the kids of Tiny Town and they became friends. The Little Cloud promised all the kids that he will come visit them every day. From that point on the Little Cloud goes down to earth and plays with his friends of Tiny Town. I have 10 manuscripts fully completed for this series and ready for publication. I will right many books for his series - not as many as the Tommy and the Magic Dictionary Series but I will write at least 25 stories. This series is for children. I have submitted 4 more manuscripts to Tate Publishing of another series. That series too I will write about 25 stories. I will hear back soon on this submission and it is for children as well. I have other series for children in planning. I also have two novels in progress for grown-ups. One book I wrote about 500 pages so far and it will have about 700 pages when completed. The other book I wrote about 200pages so far.
5. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
Readers can buy my books from Tate Publishing. I do not have a website at this time.
It is great to get to know the writers. If you missed one of the past interviews of the talented authors I have been interviewing be sure to visit my blog and catch up. These was interesting people!
Okay...I use slice and bake cookies for the grandkids. When I stirred up cookies from scratch, the kids got bored so I buy a good tasting short cut. I promise I didn't let the baby have a knife. She saw me cut them with a knife. I think she got confused. That's my story and I'm stickin' to it.
Please read this interview with new author, D.G. Flamand
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
My author name is D. G. Flamand
2. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I was 7 years old when I wrote my first short story. I realized then that I would like to do that full time. I submitted my first stories to a publishing house when I was 19 but that didn't go anywhere. Nonetheless, I kept writing for many years afterwards. I also became a fanatic of the game of chess and I played the game of chess at least 2,000 times. While playing the game of chess, my writings improved drastically. I conceived new ideas, new characters, new plots, and new stories. Today I'm brimming of ideas and projects to write. I'm 50 today.
3. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I think I can conceive interesting new characters, plots, story lines,
and stories.
4. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I have several writing projects that I'm working on. One series is called - Tommy and the Magic Dictionary Series. This is a series of books I will be writing. It is about a six-year old boy named Tommy. Tommy wants to learn everything and he envies grownups because they know so much. Then Tommy receives a dictionary for his sixth birthday from his grandpa. No one knew that it was a magic dictionary. His father placed the dictionary on his dresser in his bedroom when Tommy went to bed. But that night Tommy couldn't sleep. While staring at the ceiling when in his bed, Tommy spoke into the empty room. And without realizing it, he uttered the magic secret that brought the magic dictionary back to life! The Magic Dictionary contains all knowledge that exist and he wants to share his knowledge with everyone. Tommy wants to learn everything and right now! So Tommy and the Magic Dictionary become best friends. From that point on, every day the Magic Dictionary teaches new things to Tommy. The title of the first book is - Tommy and the Butterflies. So the Magic Dictionary teaches Tommy about butterflies. The second book of this series starts production in a few days - beginning of October. I have 5 manuscripts fully written and ready for publication and 8 others in progress. I will be writing numerous book for this series. This series is for juvenile but anyone would like to read this series. It is full of magic, new magic, new characters, new plots, and new stories. There is no destruction of any kind in my books. And they are very positive and kids will learn new things. The first book of my second series will be completed in about 6 weeks from now. The title of this series is - The Little Cloud Series. The title of the first book is - The Little Cloud and his New Friends. This series is about the smallest cloud in the sky who is being told by all the bigger clouds to be careful because there are big winds in the sky. The Little Cloud reassures all the big clouds that there are no worries that he can float in all kind of winds. But one day a big wind pushed the Little Cloud and the Little Cloud lost control of his floating. The Little Cloud was pushed down to earth near Tiny Town. And it is there that the Little Cloud met the kids of Tiny Town and they became friends. The Little Cloud promised all the kids that he will come visit them every day. From that point on the Little Cloud goes down to earth and plays with his friends of Tiny Town. I have 10 manuscripts fully completed for this series and ready for publication. I will right many books for his series - not as many as the Tommy and the Magic Dictionary Series but I will write at least 25 stories. This series is for children. I have submitted 4 more manuscripts to Tate Publishing of another series. That series too I will write about 25 stories. I will hear back soon on this submission and it is for children as well. I have other series for children in planning. I also have two novels in progress for grown-ups. One book I wrote about 500 pages so far and it will have about 700 pages when completed. The other book I wrote about 200pages so far.
5. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
Readers can buy my books from Tate Publishing. I do not have a website at this time.
It is great to get to know the writers. If you missed one of the past interviews of the talented authors I have been interviewing be sure to visit my blog and catch up. These was interesting people!
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Chloe May:Daughter of the Dust Bowl by Grace Lundmark
I purchased Chloe May:Daughter of the Dust Bowl by Grace Lundmark because the things written on the back cover of the book sounded so much like the events of my own mother's life. When I opened the book to read it I found a book mark to use when I laid it down for the evening. The truth is, I never put it down until I finished it. I had to see how they survived the things they went through, or it they survived at all. I was familiar with the area where they lived because that is where my husband grew up and where my sweet 93 year old mother-in-law still lives. We live in the area and our part of Texas experienced the same things. I heard that a lot of land around here sold for $.25 and acre during those dark days. I know about the wind and how the dust would still be everywhere except that the farmers learned how to work with the unique conditions of living in our area. Mrs. Lundmark puts a personal face on the hardships of those times. Her characters were well-rounded people who lived through difficult situations with grace, honor, steadfastness, and a hard work ethic. They knew the power of family and the need for laughter in daily life. I was impressed with the father and mother in that they endeavored to make life as normal as possible for their children. I found it familiar in the experiences of the family moving from horses and wagons to the Model T. I have heard those stories all my life. It was good to hear from another family of their experiences. I would recommend this book because I think it is a time that is neglected in our history. Elaine Littau, author of Nan's Journey and Elk's Resolve
Shadow Government by Grant R. Jeffrey
Shadow Government-How the Global Elite Is Using Surveillance Against You by Grant R. Jeffrey is a very disturbing book. Every time I have read end time prophecies I have wondered how all of the things would fall into place. The details of this book are as current as today’s newspaper. Mr. Jeffrey brings to light things that have been done in secret all over the world. As time goes on the biblical prophecies unfold one by one and the current applications are astonishing. This book is a good read for anyone who is interested in the study of end-time prophecy. You can get Extraordinary at: http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/blogging-for-books/
Elaine Littau, author of Nan’s Journey and Elk’s Resolve
Elaine Littau, author of Nan’s Journey and Elk’s Resolve
Monday, October 26, 2009
Super Sticks by Lisa Newkirk
I remember being in the lunchroom in elementary school when a girl came into the room who was in a wheelchair. Somehow, I couldn't get past the wheelchair. Lisa Newkirk's book shows Deborah, a girl with Spina Bifida, as a super hero with her crutches. I think this book will lead children to know that even if someone has to use a wheelchair, crutches, or even a white cane, they can still be a fun friend to have. Thank you, Lisa, for filling this need.
Tommy and the Butterflies, D.G. Flamand
D.G.Flamand's first book in the Tommy and the Magic Dictionary Series is Tommy and the Butterflies. I was expecting a typical darling children's book but it is so much more than that. Within the 95 pages of the book, children and adults have opportunities for learning facts about butterflies of the world and sparking their imagination with the fun packed into the storyline. The illustrations are wonderful and the feel and look of the book is splendid.The premise of the book opens up many opportunities for more learning experiences and fun. I look forward to reading more of Mr. Flamand's work in the future. My grandkids are going to love this and my husband will too!
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Cloudy Days
Cloudy Days
In the 70's I loved The Carpenters. One of their hits was "Rainy Days and Mondays Always Get Me Down". It starts with the words: (If I can remember them) "Talkin' to myself and feelin' old. Sometimes I'd like to quit. Nothing even seem to fit. Hanging around nothin' to do but frown. Rainy days and Mondays always get me down."
Hmmmmmmmmmmmm that is upsetting. That seems to describe me. What with the talking to myself, feeling old, hanging around, frowning, rainy days, Mondays....Oh no!!!
Well, we are going from Fall to Winter...I better get used to it.
Please read this interview with new author, Delaine Swardstrom.
1. What is your name and the title of your book?
My name is Delaine Swardstrom and my book is THE PHOTOGRAPH
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about your?
The one thing that always captures everyone's attention is this - I spent twenty-five years in jail...................................
working as a nurse! I'm a registered nurse and I began working in the county jail in Olathe, Kansas in 1974. The first three years of those twenty-five I was a sheriff's deputy as well as a nurse. So as a deputy I attended the Police Academy where I earned the highest score on the shooting range when I qualified with the final day at the range!
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I think it started when I was in the Police Academy. We had a writing course which was supposed to help us in writing our police reports. The instructor had us do some descriptive writing and I surprised even myself with some of the things I wrote. I believe this is when I actually began thinking that I could write - and enjoyed it. However as I look back at some of the first stories I wrote I'm surprised that I've come this far.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
When I was going through the editing process with my book my editor told me more than once that "you're so good with description". So I think this is one of my strong points.
5. Are you a reader?YES,YES,YES!!!! I would read twenty-four hours a day if I could. I love to read. In fact, I'm sorry to say that I have let it keep me from getting my housework done on several occasions.
6. What are you reading right now?
At the present I'm not reading anything. My husband and I are trying to get some building and landscape projects done before winter sets in so I haven't found time to read anything for a while. I did read "First We Have Coffee" by Margret Jensen a couple of weeks ago, sneaking it in between outdoor projects.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication?
I do have a couple. I have another book that is basically ready to send to a publisher. It's about a young couple who found themselves becoming intimate in spite of the fact that they were both Christians. When she found herself pregnant he insisted she have an abortion. After the deed had been done they both regretted the decision they had made. The story describes the pain-filled days following and the difficult time she had in forgiving him for insisting she have the abortion. It's a fairly emotional book.I'm also working on a sequel to The Photograph after so many of my readers asked if there would be one. It isn't coming along as well as I would like.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
Like most people, time seems to be the biggest problem. Also a husband who keeps wanting me to help him with something when I get an idea flowing!! :) I also come up with a lot of good ideas when I'm supposed to be sleeping so I often just get out of bed and go to my computer. I know if I don't get it down while it's flowing in my head it will be lost by morning. Also, I'm likely to stay awake for hours developing the idea instead of sleeping if I don't go get it in the computer.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here.
Jennifer Mast has been forced to leave college after the untimely death of her parents to take over her father's successful picture framing shop in the small tourist town of Pine Bluff. The reputation of the frame shop, The Master's Shop, encourages Jennifer to keep up the family name and tradition. Despite missing her family she throws herself into her work, perfecting the matting and framing techniques her father taught her years earlier. Preparing for the tourist season leaves her little time to grieve or relax. When a new photographer in town, Brent Hamblin, walks in the first day she has reopened her shop after the death of her father, she can't believe how he impresses her. He notices the framed picture of a small cabin on the wall and Jennifer explains that it is the home where her great-grandfather lived. She goes there often to soak up the atmosphere of the old homestead up in the hills of the Smoky Mountains. Brent is eager to find out about Jennifer's ancestors and she shares the godly heritage handed down to her through the generations. Discovering that Brent does not share her Christian beliefs she wonders if she should continue keeping company with him. When the picture of the cabin comes up missing Jennifer wonders if she should have been so trusting of this man who wandered into her shop and insists on keeping company with her.The rest of the story you will have to read for yourself if you want to find out what happens. Some very unexpected things happen in the book and you might be pleasantly surprised as you read. There is some intrigue, some romance, and parts of the story tug at your emotions. If this is your kind of story then I know you will like The Photograph.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books?Check out my website - www.dswardstrom.com. The book is available through Tate Publishing, Amazon, Barnes & Nobel and Borders. If you have questions or comments you can contact me at deesbook@rap.midco.net.
This was a great interview. If you missed one of the past interviews of the talented authors I have been interviewing be sure to visit my blog and catch up. These was interesting people!
http://nansjourney.blogspot.com
See you next week. I hope you enjoyed this.
In the 70's I loved The Carpenters. One of their hits was "Rainy Days and Mondays Always Get Me Down". It starts with the words: (If I can remember them) "Talkin' to myself and feelin' old. Sometimes I'd like to quit. Nothing even seem to fit. Hanging around nothin' to do but frown. Rainy days and Mondays always get me down."
Hmmmmmmmmmmmm that is upsetting. That seems to describe me. What with the talking to myself, feeling old, hanging around, frowning, rainy days, Mondays....Oh no!!!
Well, we are going from Fall to Winter...I better get used to it.
Please read this interview with new author, Delaine Swardstrom.
1. What is your name and the title of your book?
My name is Delaine Swardstrom and my book is THE PHOTOGRAPH
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about your?
The one thing that always captures everyone's attention is this - I spent twenty-five years in jail...................................
working as a nurse! I'm a registered nurse and I began working in the county jail in Olathe, Kansas in 1974. The first three years of those twenty-five I was a sheriff's deputy as well as a nurse. So as a deputy I attended the Police Academy where I earned the highest score on the shooting range when I qualified with the final day at the range!
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I think it started when I was in the Police Academy. We had a writing course which was supposed to help us in writing our police reports. The instructor had us do some descriptive writing and I surprised even myself with some of the things I wrote. I believe this is when I actually began thinking that I could write - and enjoyed it. However as I look back at some of the first stories I wrote I'm surprised that I've come this far.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
When I was going through the editing process with my book my editor told me more than once that "you're so good with description". So I think this is one of my strong points.
5. Are you a reader?YES,YES,YES!!!! I would read twenty-four hours a day if I could. I love to read. In fact, I'm sorry to say that I have let it keep me from getting my housework done on several occasions.
6. What are you reading right now?
At the present I'm not reading anything. My husband and I are trying to get some building and landscape projects done before winter sets in so I haven't found time to read anything for a while. I did read "First We Have Coffee" by Margret Jensen a couple of weeks ago, sneaking it in between outdoor projects.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication?
I do have a couple. I have another book that is basically ready to send to a publisher. It's about a young couple who found themselves becoming intimate in spite of the fact that they were both Christians. When she found herself pregnant he insisted she have an abortion. After the deed had been done they both regretted the decision they had made. The story describes the pain-filled days following and the difficult time she had in forgiving him for insisting she have the abortion. It's a fairly emotional book.I'm also working on a sequel to The Photograph after so many of my readers asked if there would be one. It isn't coming along as well as I would like.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
Like most people, time seems to be the biggest problem. Also a husband who keeps wanting me to help him with something when I get an idea flowing!! :) I also come up with a lot of good ideas when I'm supposed to be sleeping so I often just get out of bed and go to my computer. I know if I don't get it down while it's flowing in my head it will be lost by morning. Also, I'm likely to stay awake for hours developing the idea instead of sleeping if I don't go get it in the computer.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here.
Jennifer Mast has been forced to leave college after the untimely death of her parents to take over her father's successful picture framing shop in the small tourist town of Pine Bluff. The reputation of the frame shop, The Master's Shop, encourages Jennifer to keep up the family name and tradition. Despite missing her family she throws herself into her work, perfecting the matting and framing techniques her father taught her years earlier. Preparing for the tourist season leaves her little time to grieve or relax. When a new photographer in town, Brent Hamblin, walks in the first day she has reopened her shop after the death of her father, she can't believe how he impresses her. He notices the framed picture of a small cabin on the wall and Jennifer explains that it is the home where her great-grandfather lived. She goes there often to soak up the atmosphere of the old homestead up in the hills of the Smoky Mountains. Brent is eager to find out about Jennifer's ancestors and she shares the godly heritage handed down to her through the generations. Discovering that Brent does not share her Christian beliefs she wonders if she should continue keeping company with him. When the picture of the cabin comes up missing Jennifer wonders if she should have been so trusting of this man who wandered into her shop and insists on keeping company with her.The rest of the story you will have to read for yourself if you want to find out what happens. Some very unexpected things happen in the book and you might be pleasantly surprised as you read. There is some intrigue, some romance, and parts of the story tug at your emotions. If this is your kind of story then I know you will like The Photograph.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books?Check out my website - www.dswardstrom.com. The book is available through Tate Publishing, Amazon, Barnes & Nobel and Borders. If you have questions or comments you can contact me at deesbook@rap.midco.net.
This was a great interview. If you missed one of the past interviews of the talented authors I have been interviewing be sure to visit my blog and catch up. These was interesting people!
http://nansjourney.blogspot.com
See you next week. I hope you enjoyed this.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Holding Hands
Holding Hands
I love the Scripture in Isaiah 41:13 that says that God will hold my hand. There have been many times in my life that I have needed Him to do just that. A lot of times I think God held my hand by using people who are near to hold me so that I can feel tangible support. My husband, mom, dad, sisters, brothers, kids, and friends have all extended that hand at various times in my life.
There are also people that I didn't know all that well at the time who have extended a hand of friendship and comfort to me. One person is my new friend that I see most weekday mornings at the post office. She makes the place shine while I go in and get my mail. It had been a few days since she had seen me and she had grown concerned. When I walked through the door, she put down her cleaning rag and put her arms around me. The tenderness and support from that gesture was priceless. Little did she know that I needed to feel the arms of God around me at that time.
There are also those who reach out to me with tender words in emails or cards. Those words literally feel like arms around my heart. They encourage me and tell me that I can do whatever I need to do and that they appreciate the things I have already done. You can't bottle stuff like that up for resale. That is a gift.
If you knew me when I was a kid through high school you would know a different person than the person I am today. I was afraid of everything. I was shy and wanted to pretty much be invisible. I could laugh and talk with close friends but meeting new people was a challenge. Now meeting new people is most of what I do! God has a sense of humor alright. I urge all of us to reach out and be the hands and arms of God to those around us.
Please read this interview with new author, Ren Royal. When I read it I was moved to tears. Her book sounds unbelievable.
1. What is your name and the title of your book?
Ren R. Royal – “Lost Faith to Living Faith”
2. What is one thing you think your readers would
like to know about you?
A bit of personal info: Author Ren R. Royal was a starving orphan from Seoul, Korea, was adopted into a Lutheran preacher’s family, and came to America, where she became a naturalized citizen. Ren pursues her passion for writing and poetry with the support of her church and family. Ren and her husband, Charlie, reside in Garland, Texas. Ren’s husband is a retired Detective with the Dallas Police, and has been awaiting his 2 retirement while working as Sr. Investigator with the State Bar of Texas. Ren is a full-time legal secretary, plus Author, is an Assisting Minster (or also called lay asst.) at her home church, Resurrection Lutheran, enjoys interior decorating, and helping others wherever possible.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become
a writer?
I have written all of my life, as a way of coping and because it was the only way I could
communicate with others. Writing just came
naturally. Adopted and became a naturalized
citizen of the United States, I experienced
racial prejudice and had no friends until the
age of 30. I had become so withdrawn from
life and society. Unable to break down the
walls and barriers within and around, writing
seemed to be the only thing to break down
those walls and barriers. I never even
imagined that I would have a book published.
Encouraged by others in my church, I started
writing and did not stop. I never really
thought of my writing as something good
enough to be accepted by a publisher due to
my education. I only submitted my manuscript
because I thought it would good for me to
receive rejection. However, instead of being
rejected, my manuscript was accepted to my
surprise. That was God’s way of telling me I
need to have this book published that it may
make a difference in the life of another. I had
dreamed of having a book published but I never thought it would be possible, and when I was not even trying, it happened. I feel very blessed to have this opportunity since only 4% of manuscripts are accepted.
Prayer:
Almighty God,
May the tears of pain and suffering throughout the world become
floods of peace in your holy embrace. May the tears of sorrow become tears of love. May the tears of the world become rivers of your overflowing grace, continually touching one soul after another.
In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
There are many in the world whose tears are left unseen and I hope that my voice can make a difference in those tears. I once was a woman who prayed for years to die, and my prayers have changed drastically. I thank God and embrace life now. My prayers are for the hopeless, the lost, the hurting, the suffering, the victims, those who have found some reason to stop attending church and believe in God, for PK’s who stopped attending church, for those who have been through hunger, homeless, cancer, and illnesses, physical,mental or spiritually.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style
or methods?
People seem to enjoy my poetry. Sometimes I
find poetry alone too boring, and my mix of prose and poetry flow together and that is what I have found people to like the most.
5. Are you a reader?
No
6. What are you reading right now?
It is amazing that I am a writer, because I don’t read very many books. At the library, I would rather look at pictures than sit down and read.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on
and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
Yes. I have written a second book titled, “Lost
Faith to Living Faith, Part II” It has been
submitted and accepted by Tate Publishing.
I am just awaiting the funds to put this book
into action and see how my first book does.
I believe if it is God’s will for this second book
to happen, then it will. It is just a matter of time and patience. In my 2 book, I want to go into a deeper faith, touching those who were raised with the faith, but left. This will include poetic reflections/prayers/stories of lives changed and transformed by God’s love, that faith is alive through Jesus Christ, our Lord. My first book revolved mostly about how I changed, but my 2 book will be more as a devotional with poetry, prose, poetic prayers, that others may too find or come back to the Lord! He does not leave us, we leave Him.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and
how do you overcome them?
My biggest obstacle is that I am not near as
educated as many other writers. I do not
have a college degree. I wasamazed that my book was accepted and not having that
amount of education is no longer a stumbling block to accomplishing one’s dreams.
I never thought it was possible to write a book. I only thought lawyers, doctors, preachers, etc. could write books. We all have stories of our lives, dreams, and aspirations within us, and with faith all things are possible! I am not a highly educated woman and I hope that this book inspires others in the world that regardless of education; if we can love, we can aspire, and if we can live, we can take action! I hope this will inspire other women to listen to their inner hearts – that they too have something to give to the world! They too can find their voice, whether a voice of writing, through music, through art, or whatever one’s talent, we women don’t have to aspire, we can inspire.
9. Please put a description of each of your books
here.
Have you been lost or hopeless and wanted to give up in life? Lost Faith to Living Faith is the true story of how Ren R. Royal overcame her struggles through loss, prejudice, rape, abuse, and depression by placing her faith in the God who is able to heal and restore. This is the inspiring story of Ren’s transformation from hopelessness into a life full of love and joy as she went from Lost Faith to Living Faith. This inspirational and uplifting testimony is for anyone who feels hopeless or has lost faith. See how God’s grace and love can take the most tragic of stories and turn them into something more precious than gold.
“It is so difficult for any of us to realize what it is like to be a person without a family and a home. The author has been there, and she tells both the good and the bad in such a way that makes it difficult to put the book down. Every person, young and old, will discover tremendous insights that will benefit them throughout all of life. Lost Faith to Living Faith is a must read for all.”
Pastor Donald C. Ofsdahl
There are books on people who have lived lives of faith throughout their lives. There are books on atheists or agnostics who have come to believe. How about those who were raised with the faith but lost faith? This is a reality in the world today. Millions and millions of people struggle with faith every day in the world, even preacher’s kids.
Many of us feel as if we are drowning in the sins of the world and we don’t even feel worthy of being saved. Have you known such hopelessness? This is not just about a lost faith, but rather, the faith I found. It is my story of finding hope in the midst of hopelessness, of finding faith while being faithless, of finding joy in the midst of sorrow, of finding meaning in love when nothing seems to have meaning in life. This is not a self-help book nor does it contain all the answers. Ultimately, this is a tale of hope.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase
your books? Please put your website or blog here.
http://www.tatepublishing.com/
bookstore/search.php?search=Lost+Faith+to+Living+Faith
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=565962532#/profile.php?id=100000177425583&ref=profile or look up facebook Ren Royal, and ask to be my friend.
I love the Scripture in Isaiah 41:13 that says that God will hold my hand. There have been many times in my life that I have needed Him to do just that. A lot of times I think God held my hand by using people who are near to hold me so that I can feel tangible support. My husband, mom, dad, sisters, brothers, kids, and friends have all extended that hand at various times in my life.
There are also people that I didn't know all that well at the time who have extended a hand of friendship and comfort to me. One person is my new friend that I see most weekday mornings at the post office. She makes the place shine while I go in and get my mail. It had been a few days since she had seen me and she had grown concerned. When I walked through the door, she put down her cleaning rag and put her arms around me. The tenderness and support from that gesture was priceless. Little did she know that I needed to feel the arms of God around me at that time.
There are also those who reach out to me with tender words in emails or cards. Those words literally feel like arms around my heart. They encourage me and tell me that I can do whatever I need to do and that they appreciate the things I have already done. You can't bottle stuff like that up for resale. That is a gift.
If you knew me when I was a kid through high school you would know a different person than the person I am today. I was afraid of everything. I was shy and wanted to pretty much be invisible. I could laugh and talk with close friends but meeting new people was a challenge. Now meeting new people is most of what I do! God has a sense of humor alright. I urge all of us to reach out and be the hands and arms of God to those around us.
Please read this interview with new author, Ren Royal. When I read it I was moved to tears. Her book sounds unbelievable.
1. What is your name and the title of your book?
Ren R. Royal – “Lost Faith to Living Faith”
2. What is one thing you think your readers would
like to know about you?
A bit of personal info: Author Ren R. Royal was a starving orphan from Seoul, Korea, was adopted into a Lutheran preacher’s family, and came to America, where she became a naturalized citizen. Ren pursues her passion for writing and poetry with the support of her church and family. Ren and her husband, Charlie, reside in Garland, Texas. Ren’s husband is a retired Detective with the Dallas Police, and has been awaiting his 2 retirement while working as Sr. Investigator with the State Bar of Texas. Ren is a full-time legal secretary, plus Author, is an Assisting Minster (or also called lay asst.) at her home church, Resurrection Lutheran, enjoys interior decorating, and helping others wherever possible.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become
a writer?
I have written all of my life, as a way of coping and because it was the only way I could
communicate with others. Writing just came
naturally. Adopted and became a naturalized
citizen of the United States, I experienced
racial prejudice and had no friends until the
age of 30. I had become so withdrawn from
life and society. Unable to break down the
walls and barriers within and around, writing
seemed to be the only thing to break down
those walls and barriers. I never even
imagined that I would have a book published.
Encouraged by others in my church, I started
writing and did not stop. I never really
thought of my writing as something good
enough to be accepted by a publisher due to
my education. I only submitted my manuscript
because I thought it would good for me to
receive rejection. However, instead of being
rejected, my manuscript was accepted to my
surprise. That was God’s way of telling me I
need to have this book published that it may
make a difference in the life of another. I had
dreamed of having a book published but I never thought it would be possible, and when I was not even trying, it happened. I feel very blessed to have this opportunity since only 4% of manuscripts are accepted.
Prayer:
Almighty God,
May the tears of pain and suffering throughout the world become
floods of peace in your holy embrace. May the tears of sorrow become tears of love. May the tears of the world become rivers of your overflowing grace, continually touching one soul after another.
In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
There are many in the world whose tears are left unseen and I hope that my voice can make a difference in those tears. I once was a woman who prayed for years to die, and my prayers have changed drastically. I thank God and embrace life now. My prayers are for the hopeless, the lost, the hurting, the suffering, the victims, those who have found some reason to stop attending church and believe in God, for PK’s who stopped attending church, for those who have been through hunger, homeless, cancer, and illnesses, physical,mental or spiritually.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style
or methods?
People seem to enjoy my poetry. Sometimes I
find poetry alone too boring, and my mix of prose and poetry flow together and that is what I have found people to like the most.
5. Are you a reader?
No
6. What are you reading right now?
It is amazing that I am a writer, because I don’t read very many books. At the library, I would rather look at pictures than sit down and read.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on
and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
Yes. I have written a second book titled, “Lost
Faith to Living Faith, Part II” It has been
submitted and accepted by Tate Publishing.
I am just awaiting the funds to put this book
into action and see how my first book does.
I believe if it is God’s will for this second book
to happen, then it will. It is just a matter of time and patience. In my 2 book, I want to go into a deeper faith, touching those who were raised with the faith, but left. This will include poetic reflections/prayers/stories of lives changed and transformed by God’s love, that faith is alive through Jesus Christ, our Lord. My first book revolved mostly about how I changed, but my 2 book will be more as a devotional with poetry, prose, poetic prayers, that others may too find or come back to the Lord! He does not leave us, we leave Him.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and
how do you overcome them?
My biggest obstacle is that I am not near as
educated as many other writers. I do not
have a college degree. I wasamazed that my book was accepted and not having that
amount of education is no longer a stumbling block to accomplishing one’s dreams.
I never thought it was possible to write a book. I only thought lawyers, doctors, preachers, etc. could write books. We all have stories of our lives, dreams, and aspirations within us, and with faith all things are possible! I am not a highly educated woman and I hope that this book inspires others in the world that regardless of education; if we can love, we can aspire, and if we can live, we can take action! I hope this will inspire other women to listen to their inner hearts – that they too have something to give to the world! They too can find their voice, whether a voice of writing, through music, through art, or whatever one’s talent, we women don’t have to aspire, we can inspire.
9. Please put a description of each of your books
here.
Have you been lost or hopeless and wanted to give up in life? Lost Faith to Living Faith is the true story of how Ren R. Royal overcame her struggles through loss, prejudice, rape, abuse, and depression by placing her faith in the God who is able to heal and restore. This is the inspiring story of Ren’s transformation from hopelessness into a life full of love and joy as she went from Lost Faith to Living Faith. This inspirational and uplifting testimony is for anyone who feels hopeless or has lost faith. See how God’s grace and love can take the most tragic of stories and turn them into something more precious than gold.
“It is so difficult for any of us to realize what it is like to be a person without a family and a home. The author has been there, and she tells both the good and the bad in such a way that makes it difficult to put the book down. Every person, young and old, will discover tremendous insights that will benefit them throughout all of life. Lost Faith to Living Faith is a must read for all.”
Pastor Donald C. Ofsdahl
There are books on people who have lived lives of faith throughout their lives. There are books on atheists or agnostics who have come to believe. How about those who were raised with the faith but lost faith? This is a reality in the world today. Millions and millions of people struggle with faith every day in the world, even preacher’s kids.
Many of us feel as if we are drowning in the sins of the world and we don’t even feel worthy of being saved. Have you known such hopelessness? This is not just about a lost faith, but rather, the faith I found. It is my story of finding hope in the midst of hopelessness, of finding faith while being faithless, of finding joy in the midst of sorrow, of finding meaning in love when nothing seems to have meaning in life. This is not a self-help book nor does it contain all the answers. Ultimately, this is a tale of hope.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase
your books? Please put your website or blog here.
http://www.tatepublishing.com/
bookstore/search.php?search=Lost+Faith+to+Living+Faith
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=565962532#/profile.php?id=100000177425583&ref=profile or look up facebook Ren Royal, and ask to be my friend.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Becoming More Than a Good Bible Study Girl
Tired of The Same Ole Bible Study Type Books?, October 12, 2009
By
Elaine Littau "author of Nan's Journey and El... (Texas Panhandle) - See all my reviewsAre you tired of the "same ole" type Bible Study books? I know I am. I have read a boat load of them. When I picked up this book to look at I wondered what it had that was different than all the other books in this genre that I have read. For one thing, Lysa Terkeurst and her book, Becoming More Than a Good Bible Study Girl, gives a fresh look at approaching a close relationship with God. It was refreshing to see that someone else was tired of the "spiritual check list/to do list" of being a "good Christian". Lysa opens her life up in ways that show the reader that hunger for God does not require a perfect life or perfect actions in order for God to fold you close to His heart. The tone is open. For example, a few of the chapter titles say it all: "But I Want What She Has", "Beyond Sunday Morning", "When I Feel That I Don't Measure Up"... These are real feelings that most of us have felt. You will not be sorry you read this book. It will cause you to look at your motives and your life in ways that most devotional books don't. Lysa, I would like to thank you for everything you have put into this work. God bless you. Elaine Littau author of Nan's Journey & Elk's Resolve
By
Elaine Littau "author of Nan's Journey and El... (Texas Panhandle) - See all my reviewsAre you tired of the "same ole" type Bible Study books? I know I am. I have read a boat load of them. When I picked up this book to look at I wondered what it had that was different than all the other books in this genre that I have read. For one thing, Lysa Terkeurst and her book, Becoming More Than a Good Bible Study Girl, gives a fresh look at approaching a close relationship with God. It was refreshing to see that someone else was tired of the "spiritual check list/to do list" of being a "good Christian". Lysa opens her life up in ways that show the reader that hunger for God does not require a perfect life or perfect actions in order for God to fold you close to His heart. The tone is open. For example, a few of the chapter titles say it all: "But I Want What She Has", "Beyond Sunday Morning", "When I Feel That I Don't Measure Up"... These are real feelings that most of us have felt. You will not be sorry you read this book. It will cause you to look at your motives and your life in ways that most devotional books don't. Lysa, I would like to thank you for everything you have put into this work. God bless you. Elaine Littau author of Nan's Journey & Elk's Resolve
The Sound of Sleigh Bells by Cindy Woodsmall
“The Sound of Sleigh Bells” by Cindy Woodsmall, New York Times Best-Selling Author of “When the Soul Mends” is an Amish tale of love and inspiration.
Maybe the reason I enjoy the Amish stories is that I am drawn to the old-time stories of the 1800s. It seems to be a close fit. The only thing is that I find myself having the same struggles with the setting as I did in childhood when I watched episodes of my beloved Roy Rogers when he and Dale rode up on their beautiful horses only to be met by the bad guys in a car. Maybe that is because I live in a part of the country where Amish communities do not live. I am not saying that I don’t respect their devotion. I do. It is just not something that I am accustomed to.
Cindy Woodsmall tells a great story that drew me in and held my attention. In fact, I had to make myself stop reading in the wee hours of the morning. It takes a good book to do that. The characters were believable and loveable. I was invested in them and how things turned out for them. I recommend this book. You can get this at http://www.randomhouse.com/catalog/display.pperl?isbn=9780307446534
Elaine Littau, author of “Nan’s Journey” and “Elk’s Resolve”
Maybe the reason I enjoy the Amish stories is that I am drawn to the old-time stories of the 1800s. It seems to be a close fit. The only thing is that I find myself having the same struggles with the setting as I did in childhood when I watched episodes of my beloved Roy Rogers when he and Dale rode up on their beautiful horses only to be met by the bad guys in a car. Maybe that is because I live in a part of the country where Amish communities do not live. I am not saying that I don’t respect their devotion. I do. It is just not something that I am accustomed to.
Cindy Woodsmall tells a great story that drew me in and held my attention. In fact, I had to make myself stop reading in the wee hours of the morning. It takes a good book to do that. The characters were believable and loveable. I was invested in them and how things turned out for them. I recommend this book. You can get this at http://www.randomhouse.com/catalog/display.pperl?isbn=9780307446534
Elaine Littau, author of “Nan’s Journey” and “Elk’s Resolve”
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Face Book Tate Authors Group
A few weeks ago I started a group on Face book for the authors of Tate Publishing and Enterprises. From doing the interviews with authors on this newsletter I have learned a little about each one of them who have contacted me about doing an interview. It started out with an email plea from me to them. Thank goodness most of them have wanted to share their vision for their books with me here.
Honestly, if you are interested in having your interview here, just go to my website and contact me. http://elainelittau.com I will email you the questions and schedule your interview. (clean books only)
If you are a book lover and not an author...yet, give us unknown authors a try. There are some very good books out there by people who are not house-hold names...yet. Tate does have a few authors who have movie contracts so it can happen.
This week I am interviewing Craig Gleerup:
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
My name is Craig Gleerup and I authored the book, “The Type of Marriage that Endures.”
2. What is the one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
Most people want to know how long I have been married. I guess they want to make sure I have enough experience to be able to write about a successful marriage. They can relax, I have been married for over 25 years. I am still passionately in love with my wife and we act as if we are still newlyweds.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I don’t know if I can pinpoint a time when I knew. I still struggle to call myself an author. I was never good in English classes in school and still struggle with diagramming sentences. It would have to be a God-thing for me to write. My dream is to write fiction as opposed to non-fiction. However, I will have to work on my creative writing skills to get that one down.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I work to make my book conversational in style. The topic I write about can be a little academic, but if I write it that way I will lose readers. So I work hard at making the book come across more conversational by using stories to illustrate points. I have always been called a storyteller.
5. Are you a reader?
Yes, most definitely! I have a mini library at home. I am running out of shelf space, but that won’t stop me. I generally read fiction. I seem to learn more from fiction than non-fiction. For example, I’ve learned more history from Jack Cavanaugh’s books than from text books.
6. What are you reading right now?
I just finished a Terri Blackstock novel. She’s one of my favorite authors. I am reading Road to Nowhere by Paul Robertson and Relentless by Robin Parrish.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn’t been submitted for publication?
Actually, I am working on a couple of books for the Christian market. They are taking subjects that we have let church tradition get in the way of truly understanding God’s purpose and plan.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them? Time in 2 different ways. One is just finding the time to write when life keeps getting in the way. The other is the amount of time actually spent on the book. I have to confess that after a while I begin to get tired of the book. After you spend so much time with the book and you have to keep reading it for each rewrite, it gets monotonous for me.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here.
I currently only have the one book and it’s best if I just give you the description from the Tate website. "The Type of Marriage that Endures will open up new avenues of insight on your spouse, as well as yourself. Based on the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, Craig Gleerup will guide you to understanding the wonderful gift of personality that God has given each of us. You will also develop the knowledge to understand God's gift of your spouse to a whole new level. Armed with this knowledge, The Type of Marriage that Endures will help you develop strategies that will build the type of marriage that endures a lifetime of challenges and leaves a legacy of love for our children to carry on."
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books?
They can purchase them through Tate and any online bookseller. They can also order them through any bookstore. Currently, many LifeWay stores have copies on the shelf. One of the cheapest ways to purchase is Christian Book Distributors. They have it listed for $3.00 off the list price. Here is the link: http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/product?item_no=67836&item_code=WW&netp_id=486237&event=ESRCN&view=covers
Honestly, if you are interested in having your interview here, just go to my website and contact me. http://elainelittau.com I will email you the questions and schedule your interview. (clean books only)
If you are a book lover and not an author...yet, give us unknown authors a try. There are some very good books out there by people who are not house-hold names...yet. Tate does have a few authors who have movie contracts so it can happen.
This week I am interviewing Craig Gleerup:
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
My name is Craig Gleerup and I authored the book, “The Type of Marriage that Endures.”
2. What is the one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
Most people want to know how long I have been married. I guess they want to make sure I have enough experience to be able to write about a successful marriage. They can relax, I have been married for over 25 years. I am still passionately in love with my wife and we act as if we are still newlyweds.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I don’t know if I can pinpoint a time when I knew. I still struggle to call myself an author. I was never good in English classes in school and still struggle with diagramming sentences. It would have to be a God-thing for me to write. My dream is to write fiction as opposed to non-fiction. However, I will have to work on my creative writing skills to get that one down.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I work to make my book conversational in style. The topic I write about can be a little academic, but if I write it that way I will lose readers. So I work hard at making the book come across more conversational by using stories to illustrate points. I have always been called a storyteller.
5. Are you a reader?
Yes, most definitely! I have a mini library at home. I am running out of shelf space, but that won’t stop me. I generally read fiction. I seem to learn more from fiction than non-fiction. For example, I’ve learned more history from Jack Cavanaugh’s books than from text books.
6. What are you reading right now?
I just finished a Terri Blackstock novel. She’s one of my favorite authors. I am reading Road to Nowhere by Paul Robertson and Relentless by Robin Parrish.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn’t been submitted for publication?
Actually, I am working on a couple of books for the Christian market. They are taking subjects that we have let church tradition get in the way of truly understanding God’s purpose and plan.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them? Time in 2 different ways. One is just finding the time to write when life keeps getting in the way. The other is the amount of time actually spent on the book. I have to confess that after a while I begin to get tired of the book. After you spend so much time with the book and you have to keep reading it for each rewrite, it gets monotonous for me.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here.
I currently only have the one book and it’s best if I just give you the description from the Tate website. "The Type of Marriage that Endures will open up new avenues of insight on your spouse, as well as yourself. Based on the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, Craig Gleerup will guide you to understanding the wonderful gift of personality that God has given each of us. You will also develop the knowledge to understand God's gift of your spouse to a whole new level. Armed with this knowledge, The Type of Marriage that Endures will help you develop strategies that will build the type of marriage that endures a lifetime of challenges and leaves a legacy of love for our children to carry on."
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books?
They can purchase them through Tate and any online bookseller. They can also order them through any bookstore. Currently, many LifeWay stores have copies on the shelf. One of the cheapest ways to purchase is Christian Book Distributors. They have it listed for $3.00 off the list price. Here is the link: http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/product?item_no=67836&item_code=WW&netp_id=486237&event=ESRCN&view=covers
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
The End Is Now by Rob Stennett
The End Is Now by Rob Stennett was a confusing book. It was interesting and I read it in two days, but when I finished it I still had questions. I don't know if the book was mocking the event of the Rapture or trying to start conversations about it.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Extraordinary by John Bevere
“Extraordinary- The Life You’re Meant to Live” by John Bevere, Best-Selling author of “The Bait of Satan” is about pursuing life above mediocrity. In this book Bevere says that greatness is within our grasp. The past few study books I have read are along those lines. I wondered if “there was anything new under the sun” when I sat down to read this book. Of course, a lot of the content has been said by many in many ways but if you are like me, it takes a lot of repetition to get a concept caught between the ears. Most of the time deeper thoughts seem to breeze through easily but this book built on the lessons of life that I have been struggling to learn and make part of my thinking.
The point I want to share with you is one that smacked me between the eyes…or should I say ears. He said that being extraordinary is not just for the very talented people in athletics, acting, and other high profile arenas of life. It is for the hairdresser, mother, businessman, trucker, secretary and all other walks of life too. He reminded me that the Christians of the New Testament were so amazing that one of their biggest problems was to keep other people from worshiping them as if they were superheroes. Let’s face it most of us Christians don’t have that problem.
“Extraordinary” will cause evaluation in motives, devotion, and trust in God. It is worth the time to read. You can get a copy at http://randomhouse.com.
Elaine Littau, author of “Nan’s Journey” and “Elk’s Resolve”
http://nansjourney.blogspot.com
The point I want to share with you is one that smacked me between the eyes…or should I say ears. He said that being extraordinary is not just for the very talented people in athletics, acting, and other high profile arenas of life. It is for the hairdresser, mother, businessman, trucker, secretary and all other walks of life too. He reminded me that the Christians of the New Testament were so amazing that one of their biggest problems was to keep other people from worshiping them as if they were superheroes. Let’s face it most of us Christians don’t have that problem.
“Extraordinary” will cause evaluation in motives, devotion, and trust in God. It is worth the time to read. You can get a copy at http://randomhouse.com.
Elaine Littau, author of “Nan’s Journey” and “Elk’s Resolve”
http://nansjourney.blogspot.com
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Life of Bud by Laura Eckroat
just finished reading a delightful children's book titled, "The Life of Bud" by Laura W. Eckroat. Even though it is a children's book, it has a message for all ages. Bud finds himself in all the seasons of life and wonders just what is happening to him. He learns to listen to the others who were a little farther along in life than him so that he could understand what was happening to him. He learned to embrace each season as it came. That lesson is one that is important for adults as well as children. We live in a world that worships youth and youthful things. Sometimes it is hard to find someone who is happy in the stage they are in and not longing for the earlier years. My 93 yr old Mother-in-law is one of those people. She lives each day as if it is her best. Maybe it is. I think she would agree with the message of "The Life of Bud". This book has a gentle way to open communication with children the topic of aging and death. Mrs. Eckroat skillfully approaches the subject and takes the fearfulness of talking about it away. "The Life of Bud" is beautifully illustrated and wonderfully written. It would be a "keeper" in any library. Another cool thing about it is that it has a companion coloring book. Thank you for addressing this subject Laura. Elaine Littau, author of "Nan's Journey" and "Elk's Resolve"
The Greenhouse Kids Dan Delion's Secret
The Greenhouse Kids 1st Mysterious Adventure Dan Delion's Secret by Shelley Awad was a book that I know my grandsons will enjoy. I certainly did. When I got it out of the package I liked the feel of the book in my hands. The illustrations were so cute and fit the story well. The story was inventive and fun. I can see that children everywhere will enjoy this book and look forward to the next adventures. Good job Shelley Awad! Elaine Littau, author of Nan's Journey and Elk's Resolve
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Scheduling
The past few weeks I have been hitting the marketing trail hard and scheduling events for the Fall season.However, the best events are the ones that occur when a coordinator of an event phones me and sets it up. I love that. No begging...no pleading...no sweating and getting up the nerve to call...I move heaven and earth to do those events.
Honestly, if you have need of someone to do a program for you group or company, I can do it. My needs are simple: I need to be able to have my books available for sale. That is it. Give me a call or contact me on my web page. http://elainelittau.com
This week I am interviewing Joy Bowser.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
Joy Bowser - A Wife and a Witness
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
That I am a real person with real problems and real struggles.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
Not sure, it just kind of happened.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I write like I talk. I'm straightforward and terribly honest, be it good or bad.
5. Are you a reader?
Yes!
6. What are you reading right now?
I like Inspirational Romances and I love history also.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication?Tell about it.
I'd like my next book to be A Mom and A Mentor but I'm still living that one!
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them? Time and study!
9. Please put a description of each of your books here.
But in all things we overwhelmingly conquer through him that loved us. Romans 8:37
Because she fell in love, Joy Bowser chose to marry a man who was not a Christian, and in the uplifting A Wife and a Witness, she provides insight for other Christian wives who face the same challenge. A Wife and a Witness is the story of one couple’s struggle to follow Christ together. Join Christian author Joy Bowser as she fearlessly shares her marital experiences in order that readers might be encouraged and inspired by her candid vulnerability. Whether you are a Christian whose husband isn’t a believer, or a wife desiring to improve your relationship with your spouse this book is for you! A Wife and a Witness outlines specific Biblical concepts to help build a stronger marriage especially if your spouse is not saved, and profound insight into what is necessary to keep your trust in the Lord, allowing him to work in your day- to- day life and in your home.
Joy Bowser is a Sunday school teacher, wife, mother and grandmother. Joy lives in Liberty Center, Ohio, with her husband, Bill. Bill and Joy have raised three daughters together. Joy has been a Brownie leader, softball coach, genealogy volunteer, and president of various organizations.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here. http://www.myspace.com/490969833
Thank you Joy. This was a great interview. If you missed one of the past interviews of the talented authors I have been interviewing be sure to visit my blog and catch up. These was interesting people!
Honestly, if you have need of someone to do a program for you group or company, I can do it. My needs are simple: I need to be able to have my books available for sale. That is it. Give me a call or contact me on my web page. http://elainelittau.com
This week I am interviewing Joy Bowser.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
Joy Bowser - A Wife and a Witness
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
That I am a real person with real problems and real struggles.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
Not sure, it just kind of happened.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I write like I talk. I'm straightforward and terribly honest, be it good or bad.
5. Are you a reader?
Yes!
6. What are you reading right now?
I like Inspirational Romances and I love history also.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication?Tell about it.
I'd like my next book to be A Mom and A Mentor but I'm still living that one!
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them? Time and study!
9. Please put a description of each of your books here.
But in all things we overwhelmingly conquer through him that loved us. Romans 8:37
Because she fell in love, Joy Bowser chose to marry a man who was not a Christian, and in the uplifting A Wife and a Witness, she provides insight for other Christian wives who face the same challenge. A Wife and a Witness is the story of one couple’s struggle to follow Christ together. Join Christian author Joy Bowser as she fearlessly shares her marital experiences in order that readers might be encouraged and inspired by her candid vulnerability. Whether you are a Christian whose husband isn’t a believer, or a wife desiring to improve your relationship with your spouse this book is for you! A Wife and a Witness outlines specific Biblical concepts to help build a stronger marriage especially if your spouse is not saved, and profound insight into what is necessary to keep your trust in the Lord, allowing him to work in your day- to- day life and in your home.
Joy Bowser is a Sunday school teacher, wife, mother and grandmother. Joy lives in Liberty Center, Ohio, with her husband, Bill. Bill and Joy have raised three daughters together. Joy has been a Brownie leader, softball coach, genealogy volunteer, and president of various organizations.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here. http://www.myspace.com/490969833
Thank you Joy. This was a great interview. If you missed one of the past interviews of the talented authors I have been interviewing be sure to visit my blog and catch up. These was interesting people!
Thursday, September 24, 2009
I Always Fall in Love in the Fall
I always fall in love in the Fall.
Thirty-five years ago I left my little house in my little Texas panhandle town and went to a little Bible College. The year was 1974. I drove to one of my good friend's house and picked her up along with her stuff and we headed to Baxter Springs, Kansas to the Apostolic Faith Bible College. We were very excited to be all grown up and on our own. When we registered we realized that we were in different dorms but we made the best of it.
I carried a basket full of her stuff to her dorm and the heel of my shoe got caught in a massive crack on the sidewalk. I fell with a great flourish of stuff and basket. Looking up to see if my grace was noticed by anyone, I saw Terry Littau sitting on the hood of his car with a very pretty girl named Priscilla. Boy was I embarrassed. They didn't say a word.
Picking myself up and realizing that my knee was scraped and bleeding, I smiled weakly and said, "I believe I met you last month at Camp meeting didn't I?"
Terry responded. "I don't remember you."
Can you imagine how I felt? "Oh well, I think school is going to be fun. See y'all later."
I went to my dorm room and swore I would never come out again. That is until I met a really sweet girl named Elva Lu. She told me to call her Lulu. She had the confidence that I lacked and we spent the rest of the month laughing the day away. The next month she had to go home to Hempstead, TX because she was ill. I will never forget her. I missed her like crazy.
Back to Terry...His memory got better. He took me out a couple of times and then asked me to marry him. Six months later we were married. Every year when the weather changes and the mornings air is brisk and sweet, I think of falling for my true love. Going to Bible College was one of the best things that ever happened to me.
Since we have been married Terry has learned that whenever there is an opportunity for someone to fall, that would usually be me. He declared that I am accident prone...He is right. I fell for him in the fall.
This week I am interviewing Angela Harris.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
Dance in the Rain: His Joy Comes in the Mourning
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
Its hard to pick one. I have a very fun and blessed life. I'm a twin. My best friend and I have known each other since kindergarten. My 12 yr old son has already scuba dived with sharks, and my 14 yr old daughter is in training to be a professional ballet dancer.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I don't know if there was ever a specific time. I've always loved writing. It became a dream to be published in 1998 after this book began pouring out of my heart.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I write from my heart. I'm not afraid to deal with hard topics or situations, in fact, they fuel me to dig deeper.
5. Are you a reader?
I read in phases. A lot or not at all. The Bible, always.
6. What are you reading right now?
Home school curriculum honestly. My husband and I home school, so I've been gearing up for the year. Have read some of my son's 7th grade required novel over the summer as a refresher.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I think every author has another book, we all have stories to tell. I am working on a novel, another bible study, and a book looking at specific behavior/belief trends in church attending men and women.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
Time. Also, I get bored and easily distracted. I haven't decided if working on more than one project is helpful or not. It helps with variety for sure but other than that, the jury is still out. I write a lot at night, when I should be sleeping, but it's when ideas flow. I try just to embrace it as it comes. I have a tape recorder by my bed because without fail as soon as I lay my head down, there is always a thought.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here.
Have you lost someone significant in your life?
Do you feel swallowed up by sorrow?
Are you trying to find the purpose and plan for your life so you can move forward?
Where is God now?
Why did He allow this to happen?
What if the person I love is not in heaven?
So many painful thoughts surround those hurting from a loss. Those in the midst of such pan-come. Journey with author Angela A Dockter-Harris as she guides you through the healing process.This book is a two part book. Part one is a journal which can be personalized to each loss or situation. Includes journal sections for: spouse, child, (infant, miscarriage, stillborn, toddler, or adult), grandparent, parent, sibling, friend.
Also includes a very special section for someone facing death--such as a terminal illness or perhaps a military member facing deployment and unsure of the future. A person can fill out this journal section as a gift to leave for a loved one.
The second half of the book is a bible study. The bible study looks in-depth at sorrow and suffering, anger, acceptance, making amends, letting go, finding purpose, discovering a personal story from the pain and moving forward. Discusses how to find God in the midst of such pain. The bible study also addresses concerns for people who believe in heaven and the concern of dealing with uncertainty of a loved ones eternal decision. This book focuses on making amends, so it can be used in the loss of strained or broken relationships, not just death. This book can be filled out and used/given as a gift, not just after death of a loved one, but to help in the death and dying process to bring open communication and healing. Great for mature teens (with adult guidance recommended) up through adult. Good tool for counselor, lay people, pastors, etc. You can experience hope and healing during mourning.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
I haven't been blogging for long-- and I write on a variety of topics that are different pieces of who I am. It surprises a lot of people who know just a specific part of me, but those who know me know that I'm all over the map so to speak. I've actually blogged very little about the book, which I even find ironic. angelaadockterharris.wordpress.com My book is available through Tate Publishing, Amazon, Barnes and Noble. etc....
Thirty-five years ago I left my little house in my little Texas panhandle town and went to a little Bible College. The year was 1974. I drove to one of my good friend's house and picked her up along with her stuff and we headed to Baxter Springs, Kansas to the Apostolic Faith Bible College. We were very excited to be all grown up and on our own. When we registered we realized that we were in different dorms but we made the best of it.
I carried a basket full of her stuff to her dorm and the heel of my shoe got caught in a massive crack on the sidewalk. I fell with a great flourish of stuff and basket. Looking up to see if my grace was noticed by anyone, I saw Terry Littau sitting on the hood of his car with a very pretty girl named Priscilla. Boy was I embarrassed. They didn't say a word.
Picking myself up and realizing that my knee was scraped and bleeding, I smiled weakly and said, "I believe I met you last month at Camp meeting didn't I?"
Terry responded. "I don't remember you."
Can you imagine how I felt? "Oh well, I think school is going to be fun. See y'all later."
I went to my dorm room and swore I would never come out again. That is until I met a really sweet girl named Elva Lu. She told me to call her Lulu. She had the confidence that I lacked and we spent the rest of the month laughing the day away. The next month she had to go home to Hempstead, TX because she was ill. I will never forget her. I missed her like crazy.
Back to Terry...His memory got better. He took me out a couple of times and then asked me to marry him. Six months later we were married. Every year when the weather changes and the mornings air is brisk and sweet, I think of falling for my true love. Going to Bible College was one of the best things that ever happened to me.
Since we have been married Terry has learned that whenever there is an opportunity for someone to fall, that would usually be me. He declared that I am accident prone...He is right. I fell for him in the fall.
This week I am interviewing Angela Harris.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
Dance in the Rain: His Joy Comes in the Mourning
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
Its hard to pick one. I have a very fun and blessed life. I'm a twin. My best friend and I have known each other since kindergarten. My 12 yr old son has already scuba dived with sharks, and my 14 yr old daughter is in training to be a professional ballet dancer.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I don't know if there was ever a specific time. I've always loved writing. It became a dream to be published in 1998 after this book began pouring out of my heart.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I write from my heart. I'm not afraid to deal with hard topics or situations, in fact, they fuel me to dig deeper.
5. Are you a reader?
I read in phases. A lot or not at all. The Bible, always.
6. What are you reading right now?
Home school curriculum honestly. My husband and I home school, so I've been gearing up for the year. Have read some of my son's 7th grade required novel over the summer as a refresher.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I think every author has another book, we all have stories to tell. I am working on a novel, another bible study, and a book looking at specific behavior/belief trends in church attending men and women.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
Time. Also, I get bored and easily distracted. I haven't decided if working on more than one project is helpful or not. It helps with variety for sure but other than that, the jury is still out. I write a lot at night, when I should be sleeping, but it's when ideas flow. I try just to embrace it as it comes. I have a tape recorder by my bed because without fail as soon as I lay my head down, there is always a thought.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here.
Have you lost someone significant in your life?
Do you feel swallowed up by sorrow?
Are you trying to find the purpose and plan for your life so you can move forward?
Where is God now?
Why did He allow this to happen?
What if the person I love is not in heaven?
So many painful thoughts surround those hurting from a loss. Those in the midst of such pan-come. Journey with author Angela A Dockter-Harris as she guides you through the healing process.This book is a two part book. Part one is a journal which can be personalized to each loss or situation. Includes journal sections for: spouse, child, (infant, miscarriage, stillborn, toddler, or adult), grandparent, parent, sibling, friend.
Also includes a very special section for someone facing death--such as a terminal illness or perhaps a military member facing deployment and unsure of the future. A person can fill out this journal section as a gift to leave for a loved one.
The second half of the book is a bible study. The bible study looks in-depth at sorrow and suffering, anger, acceptance, making amends, letting go, finding purpose, discovering a personal story from the pain and moving forward. Discusses how to find God in the midst of such pain. The bible study also addresses concerns for people who believe in heaven and the concern of dealing with uncertainty of a loved ones eternal decision. This book focuses on making amends, so it can be used in the loss of strained or broken relationships, not just death. This book can be filled out and used/given as a gift, not just after death of a loved one, but to help in the death and dying process to bring open communication and healing. Great for mature teens (with adult guidance recommended) up through adult. Good tool for counselor, lay people, pastors, etc. You can experience hope and healing during mourning.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
I haven't been blogging for long-- and I write on a variety of topics that are different pieces of who I am. It surprises a lot of people who know just a specific part of me, but those who know me know that I'm all over the map so to speak. I've actually blogged very little about the book, which I even find ironic. angelaadockterharris.wordpress.com My book is available through Tate Publishing, Amazon, Barnes and Noble. etc....
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
"Farraday Road" by Ace Collins
Farraday Road by Ace Collins is published by Zondervan. It is a fiction/Christian/suspense novel. When I got my box of books from Zondervan to read and review I looked through the titles and decided to begin with a fiction. My brain was too tired to learn from a Bible study book. I have to have a fresh mind to read instructional books else it is like a steel shield is held over my head to deflect any ideas that try to enter.
So much for that! I opened this book and was launched within the first pages into a murder on a muddy mountain road. It was supposed to be a double homicide, but the local attorney lived to solve the mystery of who his wife's killer was. The story line has as many twists and turns as an Arkansas mountain road. You have to stay on your toes to keep up. It was a good read and refreshing to my tired mind. (Notice I did not say feeble mind.)
You may purchase this book at http://ZONDERVAN.com
So much for that! I opened this book and was launched within the first pages into a murder on a muddy mountain road. It was supposed to be a double homicide, but the local attorney lived to solve the mystery of who his wife's killer was. The story line has as many twists and turns as an Arkansas mountain road. You have to stay on your toes to keep up. It was a good read and refreshing to my tired mind. (Notice I did not say feeble mind.)
You may purchase this book at http://ZONDERVAN.com
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Authors and Other Stuff
Mikey, my son, called and told us that he and Cari had been talking to Maci, our 2 yr old granddaughter. It went like this:
"Maci, do you know that you have a middle name?"
"No"
"Your name is Maci Hope."
"Maci ope?"
"Yes, Maci Hope Littau"
"Maci ope itta?"
They then had lunch the next day and Cari was sitting there. Mikey said to Maci,
"Maci, do you remember your whole name?"
"Maci ope itta." She declared.
Mikey said, "Yes, I am a Littau, Mommy is a Littau, Mee Mee and Pea Paw are Littau."
"OOOOOOh"
Cari said, "Mam ma and Paw paw are not Littau, they are Warren."
Maci grabbed her by the face. One palm on each cheek and said, "That's too much!"
I hope you are enjoying getting to know about the authors I have been interviewing. These people are inspiring to me.
I have "met" most of them through facebook and the Tate Publishing fan page. This week I am interviewing Esther LoPresto
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
My name is Esther LoPresto and my book is “Where’s My Other Sock?”
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I am usually a quiet person, but I can be very random. In addition to being a writer, I am a dancer, and a flutist. I graduated in 2007 and I am in community college working on my associate’s degree in accounting. With all these things going on, writing is a great stress reliever.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
Well, I have always enjoyed making up stories since I was about three years old. As time went on and others encouraged my writing, I dreamed of seeing my works published. In high school, I found that I liked accounting and decided to major in it in college. During my second year, I had a professor that made the concepts so difficult that I became discouraged. With only one class remaining for my degree, I plan to finish it, but the contract from Tate has encouraged me to write more than ever. I hope to write as long as the ideas come and as the King’s scribe, my only hope is to write the words He wants to be read.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?Much like the filming of a movie, I write out of sequence. Usually, I see an interesting scene in my head and start from there, molding the story around that point no matter where it winds up in the finished product. I’m also pretty picky about proper grammar and punctuation, etc. It bothers my friends, but editors seem to like it.
5. Are you a reader?
I think I love reading more than writing! My favorite categories would be fantasy and mystery, but I’ve been getting a little bit into thrillers too. Anything that puts me on the edge of my seat, or makes me think (or both) will find its way to my shelves.
6. What are you reading right now?At the moment, I’m in the middle of a Brandilyn Collins mystery.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I’m constantly making notes on various ideas that might make a good story and I have several works in progress. To explain them would take awhile and I’m pretty private about them until I feel I need an outside opinion. After awhile, you may notice that I use “legends” quite frequently in reference to myself or my stories. This is my biggest project. It is an allegorical fantasy trilogy about life’s trials and faith in the One True King..
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
Motivation and time. Ideas come to me at very obscure times: right before falling asleep; walking through a store; in the shower; while reading another book; listening to music, just to name a few. Also, in my last year as a teenager, I find myself using every excuse possible to procrastinate. Then, when I finally do sit down to write, and I get stuck, I feel like giving up. That’s where I am with my next story: stuck and not sure how to continue. But once that obstacle is defeated, I find out where the story is taking me and have a lot of fun with it.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here.
Two socks go into the washer, only one comes out of the dryer... Tori never could have imagined the cause of her missing socks. But one day, after finishing a load of laundry, she started hearing voices in the basement. The voices discussed stealing her family's socks! She knew she had to get to the bottom of this mystery. After her brother calls her crazy, Tori recruits the help of her friends, Sally and Suzie. Together, they learn of secret alliances and sinister plots taking place literally under their feet. The only way to uncover the truth is to send their faithful pets into an unknown world linked directly to the dryer. Join Tori and her friends on this journey to a strange place where they encounter the most unlikely creatures and ultimately answer the question “Where's my other sock?”
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
My book is still in the publishing process, but when it becomes available, information will be on my blog. Readers can email legends149@gmail.com and my blog is Ramblings of a Random wRiter found at http://legendsofxenos.blogspot.com
p://www.facebook.com/pages/Esther-LoPresto/127908277538
Enjoy!
To see other author interviews go to
http://nansjourney.blogspot.com
See you next week. I hope you enjoyed this.
"Maci, do you know that you have a middle name?"
"No"
"Your name is Maci Hope."
"Maci ope?"
"Yes, Maci Hope Littau"
"Maci ope itta?"
They then had lunch the next day and Cari was sitting there. Mikey said to Maci,
"Maci, do you remember your whole name?"
"Maci ope itta." She declared.
Mikey said, "Yes, I am a Littau, Mommy is a Littau, Mee Mee and Pea Paw are Littau."
"OOOOOOh"
Cari said, "Mam ma and Paw paw are not Littau, they are Warren."
Maci grabbed her by the face. One palm on each cheek and said, "That's too much!"
I hope you are enjoying getting to know about the authors I have been interviewing. These people are inspiring to me.
I have "met" most of them through facebook and the Tate Publishing fan page. This week I am interviewing Esther LoPresto
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
My name is Esther LoPresto and my book is “Where’s My Other Sock?”
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I am usually a quiet person, but I can be very random. In addition to being a writer, I am a dancer, and a flutist. I graduated in 2007 and I am in community college working on my associate’s degree in accounting. With all these things going on, writing is a great stress reliever.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
Well, I have always enjoyed making up stories since I was about three years old. As time went on and others encouraged my writing, I dreamed of seeing my works published. In high school, I found that I liked accounting and decided to major in it in college. During my second year, I had a professor that made the concepts so difficult that I became discouraged. With only one class remaining for my degree, I plan to finish it, but the contract from Tate has encouraged me to write more than ever. I hope to write as long as the ideas come and as the King’s scribe, my only hope is to write the words He wants to be read.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?Much like the filming of a movie, I write out of sequence. Usually, I see an interesting scene in my head and start from there, molding the story around that point no matter where it winds up in the finished product. I’m also pretty picky about proper grammar and punctuation, etc. It bothers my friends, but editors seem to like it.
5. Are you a reader?
I think I love reading more than writing! My favorite categories would be fantasy and mystery, but I’ve been getting a little bit into thrillers too. Anything that puts me on the edge of my seat, or makes me think (or both) will find its way to my shelves.
6. What are you reading right now?At the moment, I’m in the middle of a Brandilyn Collins mystery.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I’m constantly making notes on various ideas that might make a good story and I have several works in progress. To explain them would take awhile and I’m pretty private about them until I feel I need an outside opinion. After awhile, you may notice that I use “legends” quite frequently in reference to myself or my stories. This is my biggest project. It is an allegorical fantasy trilogy about life’s trials and faith in the One True King..
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
Motivation and time. Ideas come to me at very obscure times: right before falling asleep; walking through a store; in the shower; while reading another book; listening to music, just to name a few. Also, in my last year as a teenager, I find myself using every excuse possible to procrastinate. Then, when I finally do sit down to write, and I get stuck, I feel like giving up. That’s where I am with my next story: stuck and not sure how to continue. But once that obstacle is defeated, I find out where the story is taking me and have a lot of fun with it.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here.
Two socks go into the washer, only one comes out of the dryer... Tori never could have imagined the cause of her missing socks. But one day, after finishing a load of laundry, she started hearing voices in the basement. The voices discussed stealing her family's socks! She knew she had to get to the bottom of this mystery. After her brother calls her crazy, Tori recruits the help of her friends, Sally and Suzie. Together, they learn of secret alliances and sinister plots taking place literally under their feet. The only way to uncover the truth is to send their faithful pets into an unknown world linked directly to the dryer. Join Tori and her friends on this journey to a strange place where they encounter the most unlikely creatures and ultimately answer the question “Where's my other sock?”
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
My book is still in the publishing process, but when it becomes available, information will be on my blog. Readers can email legends149@gmail.com and my blog is Ramblings of a Random wRiter found at http://legendsofxenos.blogspot.com
p://www.facebook.com/pages/Esther-LoPresto/127908277538
Enjoy!
To see other author interviews go to
http://nansjourney.blogspot.com
See you next week. I hope you enjoyed this.
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Today's Wild Card author is:
and the book:
100 Ways to Simplify Your Life
Publisher: FaithWords; Lrg edition (November 12, 2008)
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
JOYCE MEYER is one of the world's leading practical Bible teachers. A #1 New York Times bestselling author, she has written more than seventy inspirational books, including The Confident Woman, Look Great, Feel Great, and the entire Battlefield of the Mindfamily of books. She has also released thousands of audio teachings as well as a complete video library. Joyce's Enjoying Everyday Life® radio and television programs are broadcast around the world, and she travels extensively conducting conferences. Joyce and her husband, Dave, are the parents of four grown children and make their home in St. Louis, Missouri.Visit the author's website.
Product Details:
List Price: $16.99
Paperback: 240 pages
Publisher: FaithWords; Lrg edition (November 12, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0446509396
ISBN-13: 978-0446509398
AND NOW...THE FIRST CHAPTER:
Introduction
Everyone has them: those days where nothing seems to get done, except maybe what you’ve added to your already lengthy to-do list. Are you tired most of the time? Are you spent? Do you find yourself wish- ing for a better day—a simpler day? Too many things compete for your limited resources of attention, energy, and time. You may be suffocat- ing and not even know it. If you feel like this, you’re not alone.
Most people today live complicated lives that leave them frustrated and confused, weary and worn out. But I have good news: your life does not have to be that way. You can choose a life of simplicity, fruitfulness, fulfillment, peace, and joy. I want to warn you, however, unless you are determined not to, you will do what everyone else does. You will get sucked up in the system and spend your life wishing things were different, never realizing you are, in fact, the only one who can change things. Unless we are resolute and remain undaunted in our quest for simplicity, we are destined for complication and frustration.
I recall a time when I was complaining to God about my schedule being absolutely insane. How could anyone be expected to do all I had in front of me? Then the realization hit me that I was the one who made my schedule and nobody could change it but me. You can spend your lives wishing things were different, but wishing won’t change anything. Smart decision making and decisive action is what changes things. If you picked up this book looking for change, are you willing to make a decision and follow it up with action?
I wasted many years hoping life would change and things would calm down until I finally realized life itself doesn’t change; in fact, it has the potential to get worse. I understood my only real option was to change my approach to life. I had to say no to another day of rushing around and feeling frustrated. I didn’t want the doctor giving me another pre- scription to mask another symptom of the real problem—stress.
In my search for simplicity, I have come to believe life can never be simple unless I learn to approach all things simply. It is my attitude toward each event in life that determines how easy or complex each situation will be. Perhaps life is complicated because people are compli- cated. Is it possible that life is not complicated, but rather, individuals complicate life in the way they approach it?
I discovered it wasn’t really life or circumstances or other people as much as it was me that needed to change. My problem wasn’t the problem—I was the problem! When you spend your life in frustration trying to change the world and everyone in it, you fail to realize it could be you just need to change your approach to life. It can be very easy for someone to live an entire lifetime and never entertain the notion that the way they do things is the real problem.
Have you ever attempted to have friends over for what you initially intended to be a simple afternoon of food, fellowship, and fun, but somehow, it turned into a complicated nightmare? I remember those days vividly. I’d be at church on Sunday and, without much forethought, invite three couples over for the following Sunday to a barbecue. My initial thought was hot dogs and hamburgers on the grill, baked beans, potato chips, and iced tea. My motive was fellowship and fun, but by the time the guests arrived, I didn’t even want them there. Fun was not going to happen, at least not for me. Why? I turned my simple get- together into a nightmare of preparation, expensive food, and fourteen people instead of the original six. My complicated approach to life and my complicated thought process convinced me hot dogs and hamburg- ers weren’t nice enough so I bought steaks we could not afford. My potato chips turned into a huge bowl of homemade potato salad. The simple baked beans became four side dishes I labored over.
Insecure and wanting to impress everyone, I had to spend the week cleaning and getting everything in the house to the point where I thought it would be impressive. Of course, the lawn chairs were old, so I bought new ones. I got angry at Dave because I thought he wasn’t help- ing me enough, and by the time our friends arrived, I resented them, wished they hadn’t come, and had a miserable day of pretending to be the happy hostess when in reality I was frustrated and miserable.
I could not figure out why I wasn’t able to enjoy much of anything in life until God revealed to me I was killing my joy with complication. For years, I prayed God would change the people and circumstances around me when, in reality, He wanted to change me and my approach to life. He wanted me to simplify so, ultimately, He could be glorified.
Let me share with you 100 ways to approach living that can simplify your life and, in turn, release and increase your joy. I believe they will dramatically improve the quality of your everyday experience if you incorporate them into the way you do things. Jesus said He came so we might have and enjoy our life in abundance (see John 10:10). His prin- ciples are simple. Faith is simple! Trusting God is simple! A childlike approach to Him is simple! The plan of salvation is simple!
Jesus offers us a “new way of living,” and I believe it is a simple, yet powerful way that enables us to enjoy everyday life. Are you ready to simplify your life? Are you ready to say good-bye to the complexities you’ve allowed to take over? Let’s get started.
Do One Thing at a Time
When we do things without truly focusing our minds on them, we immediately decrease our strength to do the work before us and do it well. By putting our hands to one thing and our mind to another, we divide the muscle behind our abilities and we make the task much more difficult. It’s like removing an egg yolk from the egg white—both can be used separately but the result isn’t as effective (or tasty) as it would be if we leave the egg whole. However, by directing all of our faculties to the one thing we are doing on a particular day, at that hour, at that moment, we find it much easier to do. The ability to concentrate and stay focused can only come from discipline.
The apostle Paul tells us in Philippians 4:6 to be anxious for nothing. Anxious people are always trying to live ahead of where they currently are. They spend today trying to figure out tomorrow and the result is the loss of simplicity. God expects us to trust Him with tomorrow just as He instructed the Israelites to do when they crossed the barren wil- derness, pressing toward the Promised Land.
Practice living one day at a time; give yourself—your thoughts, your conversation, your energies, every part of you—to the day at hand.
100 Ways to Simplify Your Life
1. Develop an ability to give yourself to what you are doing. You will sense an awareness enabling you to enjoy the current activity, instead of going through each day in a blur of activity and confusing thoughts which leave you drained and exhausted.
Do you fear you will not accomplish as much if you try to live this way? It’s true you may not do as much, but you will also enjoy what you do a whole lot more. One key to simplicity is realizing that quality is far superior to quantity.
Everyone has them: those days where nothing seems to get done, except maybe what you’ve added to your already lengthy to-do list. Are you tired most of the time? Are you spent? Do you find yourself wish- ing for a better day—a simpler day? Too many things compete for your limited resources of attention, energy, and time. You may be suffocat- ing and not even know it. If you feel like this, you’re not alone.
Most people today live complicated lives that leave them frustrated and confused, weary and worn out. But I have good news: your life does not have to be that way. You can choose a life of simplicity, fruitfulness, fulfillment, peace, and joy. I want to warn you, however, unless you are determined not to, you will do what everyone else does. You will get sucked up in the system and spend your life wishing things were different, never realizing you are, in fact, the only one who can change things. Unless we are resolute and remain undaunted in our quest for simplicity, we are destined for complication and frustration.
I recall a time when I was complaining to God about my schedule being absolutely insane. How could anyone be expected to do all I had in front of me? Then the realization hit me that I was the one who made my schedule and nobody could change it but me. You can spend your lives wishing things were different, but wishing won’t change anything. Smart decision making and decisive action is what changes things. If you picked up this book looking for change, are you willing to make a decision and follow it up with action?
I wasted many years hoping life would change and things would calm down until I finally realized life itself doesn’t change; in fact, it has the potential to get worse. I understood my only real option was to change my approach to life. I had to say no to another day of rushing around and feeling frustrated. I didn’t want the doctor giving me another pre- scription to mask another symptom of the real problem—stress.
In my search for simplicity, I have come to believe life can never be simple unless I learn to approach all things simply. It is my attitude toward each event in life that determines how easy or complex each situation will be. Perhaps life is complicated because people are compli- cated. Is it possible that life is not complicated, but rather, individuals complicate life in the way they approach it?
I discovered it wasn’t really life or circumstances or other people as much as it was me that needed to change. My problem wasn’t the problem—I was the problem! When you spend your life in frustration trying to change the world and everyone in it, you fail to realize it could be you just need to change your approach to life. It can be very easy for someone to live an entire lifetime and never entertain the notion that the way they do things is the real problem.
Have you ever attempted to have friends over for what you initially intended to be a simple afternoon of food, fellowship, and fun, but somehow, it turned into a complicated nightmare? I remember those days vividly. I’d be at church on Sunday and, without much forethought, invite three couples over for the following Sunday to a barbecue. My initial thought was hot dogs and hamburgers on the grill, baked beans, potato chips, and iced tea. My motive was fellowship and fun, but by the time the guests arrived, I didn’t even want them there. Fun was not going to happen, at least not for me. Why? I turned my simple get- together into a nightmare of preparation, expensive food, and fourteen people instead of the original six. My complicated approach to life and my complicated thought process convinced me hot dogs and hamburg- ers weren’t nice enough so I bought steaks we could not afford. My potato chips turned into a huge bowl of homemade potato salad. The simple baked beans became four side dishes I labored over.
Insecure and wanting to impress everyone, I had to spend the week cleaning and getting everything in the house to the point where I thought it would be impressive. Of course, the lawn chairs were old, so I bought new ones. I got angry at Dave because I thought he wasn’t help- ing me enough, and by the time our friends arrived, I resented them, wished they hadn’t come, and had a miserable day of pretending to be the happy hostess when in reality I was frustrated and miserable.
I could not figure out why I wasn’t able to enjoy much of anything in life until God revealed to me I was killing my joy with complication. For years, I prayed God would change the people and circumstances around me when, in reality, He wanted to change me and my approach to life. He wanted me to simplify so, ultimately, He could be glorified.
Let me share with you 100 ways to approach living that can simplify your life and, in turn, release and increase your joy. I believe they will dramatically improve the quality of your everyday experience if you incorporate them into the way you do things. Jesus said He came so we might have and enjoy our life in abundance (see John 10:10). His prin- ciples are simple. Faith is simple! Trusting God is simple! A childlike approach to Him is simple! The plan of salvation is simple!
Jesus offers us a “new way of living,” and I believe it is a simple, yet powerful way that enables us to enjoy everyday life. Are you ready to simplify your life? Are you ready to say good-bye to the complexities you’ve allowed to take over? Let’s get started.
Do One Thing at a Time
The feeling of being hurried is not usually the result of living a full life and having no time. It is, on the contrary, born of a vague fear that we are wasting our life. When we do not do the one thing we ought to do, we have no time for anything elseówe are the busiest people in the world.
ÓERIC HOFFER
Looking away [from all that will distract] to Jesus, Who is the Leader and the Source of our faith [giving the first incentive for our belief] and is also its Finisher [bringing it to maturity and perfection].
—Hebrews 12:2
When we do things without truly focusing our minds on them, we immediately decrease our strength to do the work before us and do it well. By putting our hands to one thing and our mind to another, we divide the muscle behind our abilities and we make the task much more difficult. It’s like removing an egg yolk from the egg white—both can be used separately but the result isn’t as effective (or tasty) as it would be if we leave the egg whole. However, by directing all of our faculties to the one thing we are doing on a particular day, at that hour, at that moment, we find it much easier to do. The ability to concentrate and stay focused can only come from discipline.
The apostle Paul tells us in Philippians 4:6 to be anxious for nothing. Anxious people are always trying to live ahead of where they currently are. They spend today trying to figure out tomorrow and the result is the loss of simplicity. God expects us to trust Him with tomorrow just as He instructed the Israelites to do when they crossed the barren wil- derness, pressing toward the Promised Land.
Practice living one day at a time; give yourself—your thoughts, your conversation, your energies, every part of you—to the day at hand.
100 Ways to Simplify Your Life
1. Develop an ability to give yourself to what you are doing. You will sense an awareness enabling you to enjoy the current activity, instead of going through each day in a blur of activity and confusing thoughts which leave you drained and exhausted.
Do you fear you will not accomplish as much if you try to live this way? It’s true you may not do as much, but you will also enjoy what you do a whole lot more. One key to simplicity is realizing that quality is far superior to quantity.
The Blog Tour for "Nan's Journey" Begins July 23
It is time to play a Wild Card! Every now and then, a book that I have chosen to read is going to pop up as a FIRST Wild Card Tour. Get dealt into the game! (Just click the button!) Wild Card Tours feature an author and his/her book's FIRST chapter!
You never know when I might play a wild card on you!
Today's Wild Card author is:
and his/her book:
Tate Publishing & Enterprises (January 2, 2008)
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Littau is a life-long resident of Perryton, TX. She met husband, Terry at the Apostolic Faith Bible College in Baxter Springs, Kansas in 1974. They married March 1, 1975 and reside on a small acreage near Perryton where they enjoy spending time with their family and friends. They raised three sons and now have three daughters-in-law and four grandchildren added to their family. They also enjoy visiting with their extended family located in Perryton, Clear Lake, Laverne, and Amarillo.
Author Elaine Littau is a busy woman who by profession is the church secretary for Harvest Time First Assembly of God Church in Perryton. Among other things she has led women’s groups and taught preschool, and was a mentor for the M.O.P.S. (Mothers of Preschoolers) group in her community. She has been active in Toastmasters and enjoys painting, crafts, and playing piano and organ. She was recently appointed to the Campus Education Improvement Committee for Wright Elementary in Perryton. She belongs to Christian Storytellers and Faith Writers writing groups.
“Nan’s Journey” was written over the course of several years. “A salvation message is at the core of the book.” Littau says. “If it weren’t for the Lord, I wouldn’t have been able to do this. I truly enjoy meeting new people.”
Littau is currently working on two other books that are continuations of “Nan’s Journey.” Book signings and speaking engagements are currently set up for venues in Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Colorado, and Oregon.
Visit the author's website.
Product Details:
List Price: $12.99
Paperback: 188 pages
Publisher: Tate Publishing & Enterprises (January 2, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1602478325
ISBN-13: 978-1602478329
AND NOW...THE FIRST CHAPTER:
Chapter One
It was late. The moon had risen and the night symphony was in full force. Crickets chirped at their rivals, the frogs, and dominated the night chorus. Only one sound in the forest was foreign—a whimper from under the ferns. At the base of the largest pine in the woods was a small form crying, moaning, and whimpering. Black hair, matted and dirty, hung in long ropes down the front of the tiny girl. She had been in this spot for hours. At least that is what it felt like to her. Stretching, she cried out in pain. The blood-covered welts burst open to bleed again. Her back was wet with blood, and her dress was torn and useless.
Why had she dared to speak to the woman that she was obliged to call mother in that way? She knew that talking was not allowed from children before chores were finished. The accusations being made by “Ma” were totally false and she could not let Elmer take the blame for something she herself had forgotten to do. She shut her eyes tight against the memory, but it intruded anyway.
She had just gotten up to take the water off the stove to make up dishwater for the supper dishes. Ma had stepped outside the room to turn down her bed and prepare for sleep. When she reappeared in the kitchen, she realized that the wood supply next to the stove was low. Elmer was standing next to the table gathering the plates for washing. “Elmer, where is the wood you were supposed to bring up to the house?” Before he could answer, a hand had slapped him across his face. Getting back onto his feet and standing as tall as a five year old can stand, he looked her in the eye and said, “Ma, I was sick today, ‘member?”
“So, Elmer, you’re going to play up that headache trick again. Nan, didn’t your good for nothing Mama teach you people how to work, or are you just lazy?”
“Our Mama was good! Don’t you say mean things about her!” Nan yelled as her heart raced at the assault against her real Mama’s character.
“What about it, Elmer, are you like your weakling Mama or what?” Elmer’s eyes became very large and filled with tears. He could barely remember his real Mama, but when he did, he remembered soft kisses and sweet singing and a beautiful face. “I’m sorry; I’ll get the wood now.”
“No, Elmer, don’t. I promised you I’d do it today when your head was hurting, but I forgot. I’ll get it after I do these dishes.”
“Listen here, Nan, I’m the boss around here and Elmer will do what I say, when I say, and you will respect me.”
Nan’s eyes widened.
“Don’t look at me like that, little girl.”
Nan held her breath.
“Well, I guess you will be making a trip to the wood shed…with me!” Ma had grabbed her by the arm and jerked her along behind the shed. The strap was hanging there, waiting. Whippings were becoming more and more frequent. After Ma’s husband left, they had taken on a more cruel form. The last whipping was more like a beating. It took days for the marks to scab over and heal. Little Elmer had come in that night and brought some horse medicine from the barn and applied it to the oozing marks.
The next afternoon when the schoolteacher came over, Ma had already formulated a story. “Mrs. Dewey, we missed Nan and Elmer today at school. Are they sick?” Ma lied the first time in her life and said, “Well Miss Sergeant, since Mr. Dewey is going to be gone for another four weeks, I need more help around here to get things done. I’m holding the kids out until he gets back.” Week after week went by, and Mr. Dewey still hadn’t come home. Everyday Ma grew more and more angry. It became more and more impossible to please her. When she began hitting Elmer, it was too much. Nan had to do something— right or wrong; things couldn’t stay the way they were.
The coolness of the earth had settled into Nan’s bones. She stood silently for a minute and carefully crept up to the farmhouse. As she opened the door, she saw that Elmer was in the pallet at the foot of the stove next to her bedroll. Ma was asleep in her room. The door held open with a rock. Slowly she began peeling off the dress and the dried blood stuck to it. She reached for the old shirt she normally wore over her wounds and under her dress. She had washed it today. It had bloodstains on it, but it would keep her from ruining another dress. She retrieved the old work dress that she wore when chores were messier than usual; it was the only one left. She put it on swiftly and shook Elmer awake with her hand over his mouth. “Baby, we must leave. Do you understand? Stay quiet and I will get some stuff to take with us.”
She found large old handkerchief and began looking for food supplies. There was one sourdough biscuit and about a cup of cold brown beans. She located her tin cup and another rag. She would probably need that. Three matches were in the cup on the stove. She would just take two. Suddenly she heard a sound from Ma’s room. A scampering sound… just a rat. Ma turned over. Her breathing became deep and regular. For once Nan wished that Ma snored. She tied the handkerchief in a knot over the meager food supplies, grabbed their bedrolls, and slowly opened the door.
“Come on, Elmer. Can you carry this food? I’ll get your bedding. That’s a good boy. We must hurry!”
The cold air bit at their faces, but they walked bravely on.
“Elmer, we must go tonight so we can get as far away as we can before Ma wakes up and sees that we are gone.”
For the next half hour the pair walked in silence through the familiar woods past the graves on the hill. In one, a mother dearly loved, in another, an infant who had died the same day as his mother, and the third, a father that only Nan had memory of. Elmer was only two years old when Pa died in the logging accident. Nan snapped out of her reverie and urged Elmer on. Molasses, Pa’s good old workhorse, stood in the pasture. He skidded the logs Pa cut with his axe. His legs hadn’t healed quite right, but Mama hadn’t let Mr. Dewey kill him because he was all she had left of the husband of her youth. Molasses was a faithful friend to Nan and Elmer. He stood there and waited for them to mount him.
“Molasses, take us to…” Nan realized then that they had nowhere to go. Mrs. Dewey had said that they were ungrateful little imps who didn’t realize she and Mr. Dewey were taking care of them out of kindness, and they could easily be put into an orphanage. Nan didn’t know anything about orphanages except what Mrs. Dewey…uh, Ma had told her. “Molasses, just take us out of here.”
Why had she dared to speak to the woman that she was obliged to call mother in that way? She knew that talking was not allowed from children before chores were finished. The accusations being made by “Ma” were totally false and she could not let Elmer take the blame for something she herself had forgotten to do. She shut her eyes tight against the memory, but it intruded anyway.
She had just gotten up to take the water off the stove to make up dishwater for the supper dishes. Ma had stepped outside the room to turn down her bed and prepare for sleep. When she reappeared in the kitchen, she realized that the wood supply next to the stove was low. Elmer was standing next to the table gathering the plates for washing. “Elmer, where is the wood you were supposed to bring up to the house?” Before he could answer, a hand had slapped him across his face. Getting back onto his feet and standing as tall as a five year old can stand, he looked her in the eye and said, “Ma, I was sick today, ‘member?”
“So, Elmer, you’re going to play up that headache trick again. Nan, didn’t your good for nothing Mama teach you people how to work, or are you just lazy?”
“Our Mama was good! Don’t you say mean things about her!” Nan yelled as her heart raced at the assault against her real Mama’s character.
“What about it, Elmer, are you like your weakling Mama or what?” Elmer’s eyes became very large and filled with tears. He could barely remember his real Mama, but when he did, he remembered soft kisses and sweet singing and a beautiful face. “I’m sorry; I’ll get the wood now.”
“No, Elmer, don’t. I promised you I’d do it today when your head was hurting, but I forgot. I’ll get it after I do these dishes.”
“Listen here, Nan, I’m the boss around here and Elmer will do what I say, when I say, and you will respect me.”
Nan’s eyes widened.
“Don’t look at me like that, little girl.”
Nan held her breath.
“Well, I guess you will be making a trip to the wood shed…with me!” Ma had grabbed her by the arm and jerked her along behind the shed. The strap was hanging there, waiting. Whippings were becoming more and more frequent. After Ma’s husband left, they had taken on a more cruel form. The last whipping was more like a beating. It took days for the marks to scab over and heal. Little Elmer had come in that night and brought some horse medicine from the barn and applied it to the oozing marks.
The next afternoon when the schoolteacher came over, Ma had already formulated a story. “Mrs. Dewey, we missed Nan and Elmer today at school. Are they sick?” Ma lied the first time in her life and said, “Well Miss Sergeant, since Mr. Dewey is going to be gone for another four weeks, I need more help around here to get things done. I’m holding the kids out until he gets back.” Week after week went by, and Mr. Dewey still hadn’t come home. Everyday Ma grew more and more angry. It became more and more impossible to please her. When she began hitting Elmer, it was too much. Nan had to do something— right or wrong; things couldn’t stay the way they were.
The coolness of the earth had settled into Nan’s bones. She stood silently for a minute and carefully crept up to the farmhouse. As she opened the door, she saw that Elmer was in the pallet at the foot of the stove next to her bedroll. Ma was asleep in her room. The door held open with a rock. Slowly she began peeling off the dress and the dried blood stuck to it. She reached for the old shirt she normally wore over her wounds and under her dress. She had washed it today. It had bloodstains on it, but it would keep her from ruining another dress. She retrieved the old work dress that she wore when chores were messier than usual; it was the only one left. She put it on swiftly and shook Elmer awake with her hand over his mouth. “Baby, we must leave. Do you understand? Stay quiet and I will get some stuff to take with us.”
She found large old handkerchief and began looking for food supplies. There was one sourdough biscuit and about a cup of cold brown beans. She located her tin cup and another rag. She would probably need that. Three matches were in the cup on the stove. She would just take two. Suddenly she heard a sound from Ma’s room. A scampering sound… just a rat. Ma turned over. Her breathing became deep and regular. For once Nan wished that Ma snored. She tied the handkerchief in a knot over the meager food supplies, grabbed their bedrolls, and slowly opened the door.
“Come on, Elmer. Can you carry this food? I’ll get your bedding. That’s a good boy. We must hurry!”
The cold air bit at their faces, but they walked bravely on.
“Elmer, we must go tonight so we can get as far away as we can before Ma wakes up and sees that we are gone.”
For the next half hour the pair walked in silence through the familiar woods past the graves on the hill. In one, a mother dearly loved, in another, an infant who had died the same day as his mother, and the third, a father that only Nan had memory of. Elmer was only two years old when Pa died in the logging accident. Nan snapped out of her reverie and urged Elmer on. Molasses, Pa’s good old workhorse, stood in the pasture. He skidded the logs Pa cut with his axe. His legs hadn’t healed quite right, but Mama hadn’t let Mr. Dewey kill him because he was all she had left of the husband of her youth. Molasses was a faithful friend to Nan and Elmer. He stood there and waited for them to mount him.
“Molasses, take us to…” Nan realized then that they had nowhere to go. Mrs. Dewey had said that they were ungrateful little imps who didn’t realize she and Mr. Dewey were taking care of them out of kindness, and they could easily be put into an orphanage. Nan didn’t know anything about orphanages except what Mrs. Dewey…uh, Ma had told her. “Molasses, just take us out of here.”
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