Imagination is a fascinating thing and it’s something that writers use quite liberally. We love to create! Regardless of our profession or creative leanings, God’s gifted each of us with the drive to do something. We may explore different paths or pursue unique talents, but at the heart of our quests is God’s ever-present prodding. Too, He nudges us to …
A Scattering of Thoughts via Taylor Bennett
Today we welcome my blog guest Taylor Bennett, teen author and my new friend, as she shares “a scattering of thoughts” and favorite quotes that have touched her life. Take it away, Taylor! Words are some of my favorite things in the world—a single strand of them, a mere sentence, has the power to transform a day, a week, …
Chasing Dreams via Kimberly Rose Johnson
Today please welcome author Kimberly Rose Johnson. In addition to writing, Kimberly and I share some common interests—specifically, coffee and dark chocolate. (Those alone can kick-start any relationship, right?) Please sit back, settle in, and soak up the encouragement. For a few moments, turn off the noise and dream BIG. Take it away, Kimberly! Have you ever had a …
How Three Sentences Made Me a Writer via Author Linda Thompson
Today we welcome my new friend Linda Thompson to the blog. I remember the evening Linda won the 2016 ACFW Genesis award (I was a finalist that year in a different category) and I was impressed by her acceptance speech. I couldn’t wait to one day read The Plum Blooms in Winter. From the seed of an idea to a …
What the Worst Year of My Life Taught Me via Author Laurie Wood
Today we welcome the fabulous Laurie Wood to the blog. Laurie is an author who has persevered and triumphed over hardship and circumstance, and I’m blessed to call her “friend.” I will tell you now—before you read further, grab your tissues. Her story and heartfelt message will coax a tear…AND a smile. (Seriously… SO good!) Take it away, Laurie! The …
The Contract That Almost Wasn’t via Patricia Lee
Today we welcome author Patricia Lee to the blog as she shares her publishing journey and tells us about the contract that almost wasn’t. Take it away, Patricia! My Story… In 2016 I planned to attend the Oregon Christian Writers summer conference in Portland, Oregon. Like most conferences, authors were invited to pre-submit a manuscript for consideration by an editor …
ACFW 2016 Recap
Wow. I can’t believe ACFW 2016 has come and gone. This year’s American Christian Fiction Writers’ conference, in particular, was a thrilling ride. While this conference marked the fourth one I’d attended, it was my first ACFW conference as a Genesis double-finalist. I didn’t win in my categories, but I was so blessed and honored to have my work recognized …
ACFW Conference Prep
Today, we’re approximately five and a half weeks out from the annual American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) conference. I’m excited! While there have been some highs and lows this summer, I’m so grateful for God’s watchcare and provision. As always, I’m reminded of blessings I sometimes take for granted. Like for instance—reliable transportation, a comfortable home, good health, and a …
Yes, There Still is Beauty
Hello, my friend. I had a different post planned today as I jumped back into the blogging saddle, but I scrapped it in favor of something else—beauty. And a few thoughts on the recent event that rocked our world yet again. Often, there’s a fine line after such things. The tricky negotiation of should I or shouldn’t I? Should I …
Welcome to My Website Redesign
Welcome to my website redesign! I’m thrilled you stopped by! Cyber coffee for everyone! (Yes—three exclamation points. Please don’t hold it against me.) I’m so excited to share my new online home with you today. You may remember I mentioned a website refresh some time ago. While I adored my previous site, after almost five years and 600+ blog posts …