Today we welcome Julia Kay to the blog. Julia is a talented writer and a wonderful friend. I met Julia several years ago through our local ACFW chapter, and since then, we’ve shared many wonderful adventures. Julia writes women’s fiction and she is a 2016 ACFW Genesis semi-finalist. So happy to have you, Julia! You grab the mugs and I’ll pour …
I Can Only Imagine: 10 Things I Loved About the Movie
From the moment the movie trailer started circulating last year, I knew I wanted to see I Can Only Imagine. I loved the song (by the same name) and I was familiar with a bit of the backstory. The movie is based on Bart Millard’s turbulent childhood with his abusive father. (Bart, as you probably know, is lead singer for …
Why You Need At Least One of These in Your Life
Today I wanted to broach a delicate subject. Something we don’t like to talk about, but it’s ohh so important. What would you guess that is? Well, I’m sure you’ve noticed we’re not in Kansas anymore. In fact, some days it feels like we’re not even on the map. It’s a tough gig for positive people just now. In the …
March… Spring Cleaning and an Update
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 …
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. …