Ahh… Spring. The perfect time to shift gears and shake off the dust. After recent rain and flooding in the Ozarks, I’m speaking figuratively about the dust, but the month of March always brings a sense of relief. Winter’s almost behind us (*fingers crossed*) and we’re a hair’s breath away from all things green and glorious. (My condolences if you’re …
Five Things to Encourage You in Your Journey
From the moment we’re born, encouragement takes root. Mom and Dad cheer as we try and succeed at new things. Friends motivate us with kind words and recognition. Our influential sphere—confidantes and colleagues—inspire us to persevere and think beyond the comfortable. During our life journey, as we mature, we realize the value of encouragement. It buoys us during life-stretching seasons. …
Why I Still Write When Bad Things Happen
I have to admit, this has been a tough week for this see-the-glass-half-full gal. I’m knee-deep in revisions on my upcoming release, as well as working on additional projects. It wasn’t the work. Writing is my balm. It was the news. The devastating news of yet another national tragedy. I couldn’t fathom how, once again, something of this magnitude had …
After the Contract
Well, after a whirlwind January and now well into February, the excitement over my recent book (series) contract has eased into more of a lingering thrill. I’ve shared and celebrated, and now, I’ve settled into a new routine. Which, by the way, you’ve heard it before— The contract offer is only the beginning. After the contract is when the real …
So… What Next?
For a writer, there’s nothing quite as thrilling as landing your first book deal. Toss in a three-book deal and the series of your heart and you’re convinced you’ve just been showered with fairy dust. From the moment your agent delivers the news that an editor loves your project and has made an offer, to signing your name on the dotted …
Baby, It’s Cold Outside…But I Have Great News!
Brrr. Here in my little corner of the world, it’s cold! Though we’ve started a slow warming trend, for the past week or so, winter’s locked us in the deep freeze. I’m a born-and-raised Ozarks gal, but I’m not a fan of cold weather. Never have been, never will be. The good thing? It can’t last forever! And despite the …
My ONE WORD for 2018
Wow. 2018. That doesn’t seem possible. Even though we’re twelve days into the new year, I’m still adjusting. (Good gracious! Someone, please hide those leftover Christmas cookies and sweet treats!) As we enter a new season, I hope you are well and refreshed. I hope, too, this finds you with renewed vision and focus. When I consider those words—vision and …
Happy 2018 ~ A New Year’s Eve Greeting
Greetings Friend ~ Happy New Year’s Eve! As 2017 draws to a close, I wanted to take a moment to share a few thoughts. Can you believe the new year is but a breath away? How is it even possible that 2018 arrives tomorrow? It’s so true the older we get, the years seem to fly by a little faster. …
Merry Christmas from My Home to Yours ~
Three days until Christmas. Three days. How is it that the holiday’s almost here? Maybe you’re like me—so immersed in the busyness of the season that time’s slipped by quickly, leaving a trail of (happy) exhaustion in its wake. Over our way, we’ve shopped, baked, and visited. We’ve watched movies. We’ve viewed pretty lights and attended holiday musicals. We’ve soaked …
Yes. You CAN Have a Nicer, Gentler Holiday Season.
Is it just me or have the naysayers run amok? Granted, the holiday season is a tough time for many. Job loss. Illness. Hardship. The list is wide and far-reaching. And let me just say—today’s thoughts are not in any way meant to diminish terrible circumstances or life’s realities. For those touched by sadness and upheaval, may we always uplift …