In light of some new trends (and recycled old ones) we’re seeing in social media, today I thought a refresher might be in order. Kick back. Relax. Sip some joe. Ready? Let’s talk turkey. In today’s brave, new world where endless memes and selfies are the order of the day, we’re seeing unprecedented over-the-top marketing. For instance—recently, I received an e-mail …
10 Reasons I’m Thankful
Happy, Blessed Thanksgiving to you, my friend! Yes, I realize I’m a day early, but today as we reflect on this season of thankfulness, I wanted to wish you and yours a joyous, stress-free, hope-filled holiday—one that brings a smile and a tender thought or two. Wouldn’t it be nice if we celebrated the state of Thanksgiving the whole year through? …
10 Ways Writers Give Thanks
As is often the case during holiday busyness, sometimes, gratitude gets shoved to the back burner as we power through shopping, cooking, chores, and ahh yes—writing. It’s one of those unintentional slights, ironic that it may be, given this season of thankfulness. We know, but we don’t do. Today I thought it fitting to share reminders—simple, heartfelt ways we, as writers, can bless other …
Don’t Let Fear Stop You ~ Dream Big
If you’ve followed this blog for a while, you know I’m a glass half-full thinker. I dream big. I weigh the realities and set goals within reason. I pray. I plan. I strategize. And then there’s this— I dream bigger. Over the years, I’ve often thought about dreams. In fact, I’ve blogged about them, too. Certainly, as a writer, my …
Thank You, Veterans (and Hard Truths)
While our nation is on the cusp of change, today I wanted to take a few minutes to thank our veterans for their service to our country. I salute you! I appreciate your time. Your service. Your sacrifice. Your loyalty to a nation whose freedoms we often taken for granted. As history rewrites itself, above all, we must remember those …
The Day After the 2016 Presidential Election
I rarely speak about my political beliefs. At the end of the day, it’s not about me, my party affiliation, or who won or who didn’t win the presidential election. And for the record: No, I’m not a fence-sitter, a wimp, or a lukewarm patriot. Who am I? A believer (Romans 10:9-10) A victor (1 Cor 15:57) A truth-seeker (John 4:24) …
Three Not-To-Miss Thoughts
Today as we enter wind-down mode, I wanted to share three not-to-miss thoughts. Thoughts worth considering as we seek downtime and restoration. The first is a brief synopsis of the newly released movie Hacksaw Ridge. This movie is based on the true story of World War II hero Desmond Doss, a man of courage and faith who shunned the limelight, …
When You Must Go Through the Forest to See Daylight
As a little girl, I was afraid of the dark. It’s still not one of my favorite things, but over the years, I’ve learned to adjust. (Aren’t nightlights wonderful?) I was thinking about “the dark” again recently and how fear, tension, and negativity affect our mindset and self-esteem. People who live in the dark sometimes do so willingly. Maybe it’s a subconscious …
Fall Blog Break ~ October 21st Through November 2nd
The weather turned sharply cooler in the Ozarks and it finally feels like fall. It’s time for quilts, sweaters, and chili. Maybe even some hot chocolate with flavored marshmallows. Mmm… As we move farther into the season, I find it’s also time for a fall blog break. I’ll hop on social media for brief spurts, but I’ll step away from …
Rise Above the Pettiness
A few years ago I told you about Jody.* Jody was a sweet girl. She had beautiful blue eyes, a kind smile, and a warm heart. She liked sugar cookies and the color green. We weren’t particularly close friends, though we often shared the same lunch table. One day, just as I set my tray down, another classmate tapped me …