Comfortable. I even like the word. It makes me feel…well…comfortable. Just rolling that four-syllable-word around on my tongue conjures images of warm, fuzzy bedroom slippers and soft, cozy furniture. When we think of “comfortable,” rarely do we picture a cold, sterile environment such as a hospital or waiting room. But then again, I guess it depends on your perspective. For those who …
An Old-Fashioned Christmas
I grew up in a small town where no one knew a stranger. Often, a wave, a nod, or a handshake was our way of greeting each other on the sidewalk. If we meandered by a strange face, we’d stop, chat, and five minutes later we’d made a new friend. We knew your first, middle, and last name. We knew …
If Eyes Are Windows to the Soul, Then Why Are Our Blinds Closed?
I’m blessed to live in a beautiful area that I often refer to as “God’s Country.” Geographically, our region has it all: meandering hillsides, sparkling lakes, ever-changing seasons, and a diversified culture. For the most part, we have a laid-back approach to life, and rarely, do we meet a stranger. The cost of living is low in comparison to other areas. We …
Peanut Brittle-Making at Silver Dollar City (What it Taught Me)
I admit it. I’m a Pollyanna of sorts (by others’ definitions). I prefer to see the glass half-full instead of half-empty. If life rains on my parade, I’ll open an umbrella. Something not going my way? I’ll chalk it up to a lesson learned. Am I hopelessly happy when tough times come? Not really. But I know, too, that even …
Blending In or Standing Out? (A Word about Author Branding)
For newer authors just starting out, we may get so caught up in the whirlwind moments of writing that we neglect the one thing that will set us apart from other writers–our brand. Recently, I was privileged to hear Shannon Vannatter speak at a branding and marketing workshop while at the 2011 ACFW conference. Shannon is a talented inspirational romance author whose …
Indescribable Greatness
A few years ago, we visited Eureka Springs, Arkansas, a lovely, little gem surrounded by the beautiful Ozark mountains. (Eureka Springs is listed on the National Register for Historic Places.) I’ve talked about it on my blog before a few times, but you can also refer back to my post A Cure for What Ails Us if you’d like. While at Eureka Springs, we had the …
It's All About the View
A few years ago, we visited Eureka Springs, Arkansas, a beautiful, little gem cradled within the magnificent Ozark Mountains. During our trip, one of the most unusual and awe-inspiring places we stopped at was Thorncrown Chapel. Thorncrown is a 48-foot feet glass chapel ensconced within a lush, wooded setting, and it boasts over 425 windows and 6,000+ square feet of glass. It is, indeed, a sight to …
Earmarks of Greatness
Dreams big. Doesn’t settle for just a bite. Goes for the whole enchilada! Failure is not an option. Goofs, yes. Giving up, no. Recognizes talents and shares them. Realizes gifts and invites others to open them. 4. Ditches doubt and develops perseverance. Is passionate about a ministry and knows God will equip us with what’s needed to get the job done. …
Spinning Tales
For those who write, the wheels are always turning and it can be difficult to get our thoughts to “turn off.” Inspiration strikes when we least expect it–while driving, taking a shower, at family get-togethers, or even while dozing off at night. And if you’re blessed to live in a particularly beautiful neck of the woods like I am, spinning tales …
Sunny Days, Simple Ways
I think as writers, it’s only natural that we project a certain amount of ourselves into the stories we create. It’s what sets us apart from fellow authors. Some may refer to it as voice, writing style, or even vision. While I have many favorite authors I greatly admire, it’s important to me to stay true to myself and write what …