A few years ago we had the opportunity to see The Great Passion Play at Eureka Springs, Arkansas. If you’ve never seen it, you should. It’s a magnificent depiction of the last days of Jesus’s earthly ministry. I remember sitting spellbound throughout much of the play, especially during the crucifixion scene of Jesus. I recall thinking what was it like to …
Isn’t It Romantic?
Okay, today’s post is about something that is near and dear to my heart—romance! Anyone who knows me—really knows me—knows that I am a hopeless romantic. I tear up at Hallmark commercials, I appreciate gallantry, and I adore a handmade card with a heartfelt sentiment. I’m also deeply moved by… that tender kiss between those in love, handpicked wildflowers on a …
Got Church?
Ever wonder about folks who do/don’t attend church? Generally speaking, I think we judge folks too harshly when they don’t. I think, too, some of the finest Christians on this planet are not church-goers for myriad reasons—health issues, circumstances beyond their control, work conflicts, feelings of unworthiness, and a host of other things. Now, that being said, as Christians we’re to “assemble …
The Apple Doesn’t Fall Far From the Tree…
Do you ever wonder how much family influences us? Experts say that the first five years of a child’s life are key developmental years. We learn by example. The environment a child is raised in is crucial to self-worth. Social and emotional growth are determined by what we’re exposed to, and we thrive in a healthy climate or learn to adjust in …
Plots, Subplots, and Other Animals
In a previous post I talked about things I collect. Well, I have another one: old readers. I particularly love the classic Sally, Dick, and Jane series from the 1950’s-60’s. I’ve been blessed to pick up several of these old books at garage sales for a quarter a piece! At flea markets, I’ve seen some editions priced at more than $50! Also, …
Hope Springs Eternal
Years ago, when I began pursuing a publishing career, I remember there was often a little voice that would taunt Yeah, well hope springs eternal. It was the voice of discouragement, the voice of disbelief. I continued to plug away and tried to tamp down the ever-present rant going on in my head—the stream of negatives that played like a symphony …
Beauty In Simple Things
This morning as I focused on my WIP, I contemplated the beauty in simple things. The novels I write are about simple, ordinary people. I create everyday folks, but with complexities of their own. I write about small town life, day-to-day living, and the quest for happiness. My characters learn as I do, finding joy in quiet blessings, heartfelt prayer, and a relationship …
A Little Strange, A Little Unusual
For those of us who write, it can often be a solitary world. Our days are spent in front of a computer screen with only the silent voices of our fictional characters to keep us company. When I’m in my writing mode I enter my character’s worlds, playing out their conversations in my head and taking on their demeanors, their beliefs, …
Collections
I’m a collector of many things. My kitchen has an apple theme so I collect all things “apple.” Gingerbread men and women grace my laundry room in the borders and on the walls. I adore miniature teapots so I have several of those. I’m also a lover of vintage cookbooks, preferably circa 1950 and earlier. And my most cherished collection …
Writing Christian Fiction
For many people not familiar with Christian fiction there’s sometimes the preconceived notion that if it’s Christian it must be boring. I remember once being asked why I wanted to write for the Christian market rather than the secular one. “Well, a Christian is who I am,” I responded. “I think what I write would be best suited to that niche.” “Don’t you …