As many of you know, if you’ve read my blog posts for very long, I’m a “see the glass as half-full” kind of gal. If life hands me lemons, I’ll make a pitcher of iced tea and use those lemons. Hard times? Well, like Scarlett once said, “Tomorrow IS another day.” Challenges, disappointment, rejection, or trials? Got it covered. My …
When Memories Collide with the Truth
Many months ago, I ran into an old friend. Talk about memories! It had been almost 11 years since we’d seen each other–since she’d moved about four states away to begin a new life. I didn’t even know she was back in the area. As I studied “Debbie” (not her real name) from across the store, I realized the years …
Revisiting Author Taglines
Several months ago I talked about author taglines. You may remember that my original tagline was Writing Heartfelt, Homespun Contemporary Christian Romance. Way too lengthy in my opinion. I felt that I needed something a bit shorter and more definitive, so eventually, my tagline became Dishing Hearth and Home on Plates of Love. Still a tad too long, but …
A Dose of Change, A Dollop of Sprinkles
It’s finally here! Like the summer bedspread that sorely needed changing, my web presence has needed a facelift. I’m happy to say my online home has been transformed and the linens refreshed. A lovely, new comforter has arrived! For the past several months, I’ve worked closely with the PulsePoint Design Team as they created a spacious, beautiful home for me to …
What’s Old is New
As a child, I spent a lot of time with my grandmother. We were a close-knit family, and many summers, weekends, and holidays, we would descend upon my Nana’s two-story abode where fun and adventure beckoned. Nana’s home was unique. Perched high atop a tree-shrouded hillside overlooking Route 66, the huge, native stone gem seemed almost surreal. With its cascade of thick, concrete …
Does Dozing in the Pigpen Really Make Us Happy?
Several weeks ago, I attended my college Homecoming. Prior to the start of the ballgame, as is tradition, morning activities included a dunking booth, alumni chatting areas, games for the kiddos, and various food and drink stations. Another big hit for those with youngsters was the petting exhibit. Adults, too, seemed drawn to the adorable, pink and black spotted piglets dozing …
Seasoning: It’s Not Just for Chili
(Today I’m continuing to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday with my family. This is a favorite of one of my previous posts. I pray your day is blessed!) ****** I think in life we all experience difficulties, hardships, and trials from time to time. Some folks may endure these struggles temporarily. For others, the season of suffering may seem never-ending. (I’ve …
Calling All Writers: 10 Ways to Give Thanks
In celebration of Thanksgiving tomorrow, I thought it might be fitting to share a few ways that we, as writers, could give thanks. Enjoy! 1. Remember where we got our start. Thank those who’ve been influential during our journey and extend a word of encouragement to others who may not be as far down the road. 2. Maintain a willing spirit and a servant’s …
Finding Your Prince and Kissing the Toads Goodbye
Gee whiz, is it just me or has society’s perception of romance become more than a bit skewed? I don’t know about you, but I’m worn out with television programing these days. Not to sound prudish, but when something is touted as a “romance” on T.V. I expect it to deliver; I don’t want to see unflattering portrayals of what …
Keeping Christ in Christian Fiction
In today’s world “politically correct” seems to be the hot buzz phrase. And if we’re Christians, heaven help us because that ups the ante. We certainly don’t want to share our beliefs too loudly. That might offend. We mustn’t be too bold, joyful, or overzealous in spreading the message of the Gospel. It might alienate. And we can talk about Christmas …