Here in the Ozarks we’re blessed. Ours is a slower-paced way of life, though, that doesn’t mean we’re entirely immune to busyness. We simply approach it a little differently, and perhaps, on our own terms. Say, after three cups of coffee and a morning chat with Neighbor Nelly or Preacher Bill. Some folks resist change and cling to old ways and …
Courage to Hang Tough
Sometimes, in light of world events, we find it necessary to pause—to step back from the craziness of evil and process the senselessness of it all. Some people rail and bemoan injustice while others seek solitude and retreat to their quiet places. Because we’re human, each of us grieves differently. We act and react in ways that are, perhaps, inherent to our …
In Celebration of Mothers
Recently, a memory surfaced as I watched a little girl tug her mother’s hand. Nothing out of the ordinary, really, but something about the bond between mother and daughter moved me. Blue eyes, bright with adoration, lingered on Mom. Mom laughed and the pair shared a knowing look—one of those silent, happy exchanges between parent and child. A love language uniquely …
Good News Calls for Chocolate
Ohh, my goodness. After the torrential downpours and record flooding the Ozarks had over the past week, it’s time for some good news. Combine good news with chocolate cake and we have a party! You may remember, I scaled back on blogging over the past month, as I craved some much-needed R&R. I continued writing during that time, too, so …
Our Friends… For a Reason, a Season, or a Lifetime
Friends. The word makes me smile. Besides family, friends are life’s greatest blessings. Sometimes, friendships are borne out of mutual circumstance—for a reason. Sometimes, friendships are brief, but no less meaningful, and last for a season. Still, other friendships—those that begin as tiny, fragile seeds only to burst forth in full bloom—hijack our hearts for a lifetime. Whether they exist for a reason, a …
The Stories That Move Us
Last week I met a friend for lunch. We talked writing, stories, and ordinary life. That’s the great thing about friendship. We can bounce around all over the map and our friends still “get us.” Take Julia, for instance. Julia’s a fun soul. God’s girl and a deep thinker, she rattles my comfort zones. As in—challenges me to step beyond …
Knowing When to Shift Our Priorities
One of the hardest things a writer faces is knowing when to say “no.” We may try to temper it with “I’d love to, but I can’t just now.” Or “I’m sorry, I’m afraid I’ll have to pass.” Whatever lingo we use, saying no requires conscious effort and commitment. It doesn’t mean we’re insensitive to others’ needs or that we have …
10 Reasons To Do Sunday Brunch at The Keeter Center
As promised, today I have a delightful treat for you. Be forewarned: eye-candy feast ahead. It *may* induce coveting…and hunger pangs. Belly up to your laptop screen or smartphone annnd let’s go! As you know, one of our family’s all-time favorite restaurants is the award-winning Dobyns Dining Room at the oh-so-amazing Keeter Center (located at my beloved alma mater, College of the …
The Perfect Imperfection of a Writer’s World
You might think because I write Heartfelt, Homespun Fiction my story worlds are a delightful Sunday-Go-to-Meeting escape. Well, I can’t fib. That’s somewhat true…to a point. However— As a conscientious writer whose goal is to share a great story, I strive to balance the delightful with reality-based conflict in a heartfelt, homespun way. Today’s readers want meat-and-potatoes stories that resonate. …
April Newsletter Prep
My apologies for missing a recent blog post. I usually mention it beforehand if I find it necessary to step away, but sometimes unscheduled breaks happen. Thanks so much for your patience. This month has been particularly busy as I complete a few projects before deadline. I’m also working on another story, as well as finishing my April newsletter. As you know, …