For many, today is bittersweet. While some will spend this Memorial Day visiting with friends and family, or perhaps, catching up on some household chores or some much-needed R and R, still others will make their annual trek to cemeteries near and far where their loved ones’ earthly remains are laid to rest. For some, the loss may be quite fresh and the grief almost …
Hook, Line, and Sinker
I’m not a fisherman (or fisherwoman, lest I offend anyone.) I just never developed an interest in it. The idea of sitting out in the blazing heat, rainy weather, or bone-chilling cold never held much appeal. And the concept of the perfect cast? Well, “artistry in motion” certainly didn’t describe ME. And a rod and reel? Aren’t they all the same? It’s …
10 Reasons Why I Write (Faith-based) Romance
As many of you know by now, if you’ve read this blog a bit, then you know that I write faith-based romance novels. The first book in my series is with my agent, and I’m continuing to work on book two. In my post Isn’t It Romantic? I shared with you my perception of romance. Today, I’d like to highlight a few more reasons …
Comfort During Trials
When people are touched by heartache, why is it that sometimes we’re at a loss for words? Is it because we don’t care? (I’m sure that’s not true.) Can’t empathize? (Perhaps not, but we can try.) Bogged down in complacency? (Possibly, because our own lives still go on.) I think, also, it must be because we are truly in awe of the circumstances; sometimes, there …
Splashes of Happy
I’m a very visual person and I firmly believe that what we surround ourselves with in our environment has incredible power over us. I love color (especially the color red), and since I’m a cheerful person, I enjoy having “splashes of happy” throughout our home. Yes, I realize things can’t make us happy and they shouldn’t determine our self-worth. What I’m …
Calm After the Storm
My heart is heavy as I write today’s brief post. Last evening, folks in nearby Joplin and the surrounding areas were hit by tornadoes and severe storms. You may have seen part of the television coverage if you’ve tuned in to your news this morning. Since our own little neck of the woods was hit twice within the last seven years, we’ve seen firsthand the …
Cookie Jars and Crayons
Many years ago, my husband’s beloved grandmother gave me a darling Red Wing antique cookie jar. He’s a happy, chubby fellow, and he’s always had a very prominent place in our kitchen. I’ve often wondered about the story behind the little chef and what kinds of cookies he might have held over the years before he took up residence in our home. Cookies weren’t all that The …
Fishing For the Write Words
For those of us who write, sometimes it can be difficult to come up with “just the right word” for our novel, a post, a letter, etc. Those of you who know me, know that I’m rarely at a loss for words. I love to talk, make new friends, and tap on the trusty keyboard. Occasionally, however, coming up with just the …
Berry Interesting…
If you saw the movie Julie and Julia then you know that this movie was based on the true life story of a young woman (an underdog in a dead-end job) named “Julie” whose kitchen idol was–who else–Julia Child, chef extraordinaire. Julie sets out on a mission to master the art of French cooking within a certain amount of time. …
Anyone Have a Flashlight?
A few years ago when we visited Eureka Springs, Arkansas, one of the places we toured was Onyx Cave—a small, but unique delight. The tour is self-guided and fairly easy to navigate, and the folks there are very helpful and courteous. Families with children and teens would enjoy it. Now, a word of caution. Don’t venture down inside this cave …