This year has been a lot of little lessons. I’ve enjoyed a few and I’ve been hit over the head with a couple.
I learned the lesson of making time for me when I went on the cruise trip. It was so peaceful just focusing on me for a change. I’m forever mama, wife, SORMAG editor, government worker. I’d forgotten who LaShaunda is. What are my likes, what are my dislikes?
I reconnected with me and it was great.
I learned the lesson of making time for friends. I missed hanging out with my girls. The road trip to Miami showed me I missed talking with other women. I do a lot of talking online, but it doesn’t beat talking face to face. I truly missed that. I want to make more time for my friends.
I decided to try the critique group again. I was ready to step out and let others read my stories. I’m part of the ACFW so I sent out a feeler to see if anyone would be interested in joining me for a critique group. I got a few feedbacks and had our first official meeting in June and its been going well. I’ve met some nice people who can write and they have been very helpful in helping me improve my writing.
I also decided to try a new genre, young adult fiction. I started a story that has been in my head for a while. I thought my daughter and I would write it together, but I think she chickened out when she realized it takes time and effort to write a book.
It has been a fun adventure coming up with new chapters for the story and I’m enjoying myself as I write.
As I write this post I realize that I have a lot I learned this year, so I’m going to break them into a couple of posts, so you don’t have to run screaming from the blog, because your eyes are tired of reading.
What lessons have you learned this year?
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Wednesday, December 01, 2010
I Wish You Enough
I wish you enough sun to keep your attitude bright no matter how gray the day may appear.
I wish you enough rain to appreciate the sun even more.
I wish you enough happiness to keep your spirit alive and everlasting.
I wish you enough pain so that even the smallest of joys in life may appear bigger.
I wish you enough gain to satisfy your wanting.
I wish you enough loss to appreciate all that you possess..
I wish you enough hellos to get you through the final good-bye.
I wish you enough rain to appreciate the sun even more.
I wish you enough happiness to keep your spirit alive and everlasting.
I wish you enough pain so that even the smallest of joys in life may appear bigger.
I wish you enough gain to satisfy your wanting.
I wish you enough loss to appreciate all that you possess..
I wish you enough hellos to get you through the final good-bye.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
CFBA: Emily of Deep Valley
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
That's a good question. I've been trying to figure it out myself, spending most of my life crossing borders.
I was born Mitali Bose in Kolkata (Calcutta), India, and always tried to live up to my name—which means “friendly” in the Bangla language. I had to! Because my family moved so much, it was the only way I could make new friends.
By the time I was 11, I'd lived in Ghana, Cameroon, London, New York and Mexico before settling in California just in time for middle school. Yep, I was the new kid again, in seventh grade, the year everybody barely makes it through.
My biggest lifeline during those early years was story. Books were my rock, my stability, my safe place as I navigated the border between California suburbia and the Bengali culture of my traditional home.
After studying political science at Stanford and public policy at U.C. Berkeley, I taught in middle school, high school and college. When I began to write fiction, my protagonists were often—not surprisingly—strong female characters trying to bridge different cultures.
Mitali Perkins is the author of several books for young people, including SECRET KEEPER (Random House), MONSOON SUMMER (Random House), RICKSHAW GIRL (Charlesbridge), and the FIRST DAUGHTER books (Dutton).
ABOUT THE BOOK
Emily Webster, an orphan living with her grandfather, is not like the other girls her age in Deep Valley, Minnesota. The gulf between Emily and her classmates widens even more when they graduate from Deep Valley High School in 1912. Emily longs to go off to college with everyone else, but she can’t leave her grandfather. Emily resigns herself to facing a “lost winter,” but soon decides to stop feeling sorry for herself. And with a new program of study, a growing interest in the Syrian community, and a handsome new teacher at the high school to fill her days, Emily gains more than she ever dreamed...
In addition to her beloved Betsy-Tacy books, Maud Hart Lovelace wrote three more stories set in the fictional town of Deep Valley: Winona’s Pony Cart, Carney’s House Party and Emily of Deep Valley. Longtime fans and new readers alike will be delighted to find the Deep Valley books available again for the first time in many years.
If you would like to browse inside Emily of Deep Valley, go HERE.
Monday, November 29, 2010
CFBA: Divine Appointments
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Charlene says: For over two decades of writing and speaking, my passionate pursuit to entertain and rejuvenate using humor (I love to laugh-especially at myself), uncommon wisdom, and passionate insights has been affirmed through countless calls, letters, and evaluation sheets. A reader recently e-mailed, "There is so much depression and sadness in this world. I applaud you for reminding all of us to treasure the moments in our lives, and for encouraging us to find joy in the little things. What you do helps so many to rise above the heaviness of life and live, and laugh, and face another day, so thanks!!!!" That is exactly why I keep doing what I do.
I am a firm believer in the power of story (short or book-length, funny or insightful, real or fiction, on stage or page) to accomplish my purpose, which is to remind you: Don't Miss Your Life! Whether you're tuning into me live or in print, fasten your seatbelt. I promise you a wild, fun, provocative, heart-warming ride.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Josie Brooks, at the age of 47, thought she was leading an enviable single life. A successful consultant, she calls her own shots, goes where the money is, and never needs to compromise. But her precisely managed world begins to falter during a Chicago contract when an economic downturn, a bleeding heart boss, and the loyalty and kindness between endangered employees ding her coat of armor.
Throw in hot flashes, a dose of loneliness, a peculiar longing for intimacy, an
unquenchable thirst—not to mention a mysterious snow globe with a serene landscape, complete with a flowing river and lush greenery that seems to be beckoning her in—and Josie’s buttoned-up life is on the verge of coming completely undone.
Maybe her solitary existence isn’t as fulfilling as she has convinced herself to believe. It will take a few new friends, a mystical encounter, and an unexpected journey to set Josie on her own path to “right-sizing” and making the life changes that really matter. Filled with laugh-out loud moments and a gentle dash of inspiration, Divine Appointments is another heartwarming charmer from a master storyteller.
If you would like to read the first chapter of Divine Appointments, go HERE.
Monday, November 22, 2010
CFBA: The Lightkeeper's Bride by Colleen Coble
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Author Colleen Coble’s thirty-five novels and novellas have won or finaled in awards ranging from the Romance Writers of America prestigious RITA, the Holt Medallion, the ACFW Book of the Year, the Daphne du Maurier, National Readers’ Choice, the Booksellers Best, and the 2009 Best Books of Indiana-Fiction award. She writes romantic mysteries because she loves to see justice prevail and love begin with a happy ending.
A word from Colleen: God has been faithful, though the path has not been easy. Nothing worth doing is ever easy. God wouldn’t let me give up, and I like to think the struggle made me stronger. God has given me so much in my life, most importantly my great family, a loving church family at New Life Baptist Church, and my wonderful publishing family at Nelson Books.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Central Operator Katie Russell's inquisitive ways have just uncovered her parents' plan for her marriage to wealthy bachelor Bartholomew Foster. Her heart is unmoved, but she knows the match will bring her family status and respectability.
Then Katie overhears a phone conversation that makes her uneasy and asks authorities to investigate. But the caller is nowhere to be found. Mysterious connections arise between the caller and a ship lost at sea.
Against propriety, Katie questions the new lighthouse keeper, Will Jesperson. Then a smallpox epidemic forces their quarantine in his lighthouse. Though of low social status, Will's bravery and kindness remove Katie's suspicion and win her love. Katie and Will together work to solve the mystery of the missing girl and the lost ship as God gives the couple the desire of their hearts.
If you would like to read the first chapter of The Lightkeeper's Bride, go HERE.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Fred Moment
Today I read a blog post about The Fred Factor.
Here’s the link if you want to read for yourself.
It had me thinking about my own Fred moments and lessons I’ve learned in the work environment.
1. Everyone makes a difference
2. Everything is built on relationships.
3. You must continually create value for others.
4. You can reinvent yourself regularly.
When I first joined the Navy, my first official job was on a cleaning detail. I couldn’t believe I’d joined the Navy to clean toilets. My supervisor told me it didn’t matter what job I had to do the best you can do and that will always make the position shine because what you do can make a difference.
I hated cleaning but I believed in his words and I made sure my toilets and floors shined. Our base received the Best base award and part of that recognition was because of the cleaning details. We made our base shine.
I’ve carried that advice with me with every job I’ve had. It might not be something I wanted to do, but I did my best to make it shine because every job makes a difference.
My Fred moment is trying to make a difference in other’s lives. Be it by sharing a title of a book, introducing a new writer or setting up a conference call that was cancelled because they couldn’t figure out the system.
I think we can bless others everyday if we try. Just because your day is long and hard doesn’t mean you have to take it out on others. Be thankful for your day and share something with someone else.
What’s your Fred Moment?
Here’s the link if you want to read for yourself.
It had me thinking about my own Fred moments and lessons I’ve learned in the work environment.
1. Everyone makes a difference
2. Everything is built on relationships.
3. You must continually create value for others.
4. You can reinvent yourself regularly.
When I first joined the Navy, my first official job was on a cleaning detail. I couldn’t believe I’d joined the Navy to clean toilets. My supervisor told me it didn’t matter what job I had to do the best you can do and that will always make the position shine because what you do can make a difference.
I hated cleaning but I believed in his words and I made sure my toilets and floors shined. Our base received the Best base award and part of that recognition was because of the cleaning details. We made our base shine.
I’ve carried that advice with me with every job I’ve had. It might not be something I wanted to do, but I did my best to make it shine because every job makes a difference.
My Fred moment is trying to make a difference in other’s lives. Be it by sharing a title of a book, introducing a new writer or setting up a conference call that was cancelled because they couldn’t figure out the system.
I think we can bless others everyday if we try. Just because your day is long and hard doesn’t mean you have to take it out on others. Be thankful for your day and share something with someone else.
What’s your Fred Moment?
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
CFBA: The Silent Order
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Prior to launching Dobson Media Group in 1999, Melanie was the corporate publicity manager at Focus on the Family where she was responsible for the publicity of events, products, films, and TV specials. Melanie received her undergraduate degree in journalism from Liberty University and her master's degree in communication from Regent University. She has worked in the fields of publicity and journalism for fifteen years including two years as a publicist for The Family Channel.
Melanie and her husband, Jon, met in Colorado Springs in 1997 at Vanguard Church. Jon works in the field of computer animation. Since they've been married, the Dobsons have relocated numerous times including stints in Virginia, Tennessee, North Carolina, Colorado, Berlin, and Southern California. These days they are enjoying their new home in the Pacific Northwest.
Jon and Melanie have adopted their two daughters —Karly (6) and Kinzel (5). When Melanie isn't writing or entertaining their girls, she enjoys exploring ghost towns and dusty back roads, traveling, hiking, line dancing, and reading inspirational fiction.
ABOUT THE BOOK
collaborating with Cleveland’s notorious mob. While Rollin searches for answers to his partner’s death, he befriends an elusive young Amish woman named Katie and her young son. As Rollin learns about Katie’s past, he’s shocked at the secret Katie is hiding - a secret that has haunted Rollin for eight years.
If you would like to read the first chapter of The Silent Order, go HERE.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Sisters
I enjoy being a sister it’s a gift I treasure. I’ve told you about my search for my younger sister and finding her on facebook. This weekend I will meet her in person. If you can’t tell, I’m totally excited about the possibility. It’s almost like your parents bringing home the new baby. Only this baby will be able to talk to me instead of staring at me like I’m an alien.
If she doesn’t mind I plan on taking tons of pictures and posting this experience. My hope is for others to continue in their search for their love ones.
I want to thank Tricia Goyer for sharing her experience in meeting her sisters for the first time. It encouraged me to look for my sister again.
Have you found a love one on face book?
If she doesn’t mind I plan on taking tons of pictures and posting this experience. My hope is for others to continue in their search for their love ones.
I want to thank Tricia Goyer for sharing her experience in meeting her sisters for the first time. It encouraged me to look for my sister again.
Have you found a love one on face book?
Monday, November 15, 2010
CFBA: Long Time Coming
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Vanessa has been writing since she was a young child. When she wasn’t writing poetry, short stories, stage plays and novels, reading great books consumed her free time. However, it wasn’t until she committed her life to the Lord in 1994 that she realized all gifts and anointing come from God. She then set out to write redemption stories that glorify God.
To date, Vanessa has completed the Rain and Storm Series. She is currently working on the Forsaken series, Second Chance at Love series and a single title, Long Time Coming. Vanessa believes that each book will touch readers across the country in a special way. It is, after all, her God-given destiny to write and produce plays and novels that bring deliverance to God’s people. These books have received rave reviews, winning Best Christian Fiction Awards and topping numerous Bestseller’s lists.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Faithful Christian Deidre Clark-Morris is a professional career-minded woman with a loving husband, but no children. Kenisha Smalls has lived in poverty all her life. She has three children by three different men and has just been diagnosed with inoperable cervical cancer.
While the meeting between these two women appears accidental, it becomes their catalyst of hope. Neither woman expects the blessing that God has in store for her. While Deidre will guide Kenisha on the path to eternal life with Jesus Christ, Kenisha will teach Deidre how to stand strong against the hard-knocks of life.
If you would like to read the first chapter of Long Time Coming, go HERE
Watch the book video:
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
CFBA: Amy Inspired by Bethany Pierce
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
ABOUT THE BOOK
Amy Gallagher is an aspiring writer who, after countless rejections, has settled for a career as an English professor in small-town Ohio just to pay the bills. All her dreams suddenly start to unravel as rejections pile up--both from publishers and her boyfriend.
But just as Amy fears her life is stuck in a holding pattern, she meets the mysterious, attractive, and unavailable Eli. She struggles to walk the fine line between friendship and something more with Eli, even as staying true to her faith becomes unexpectedly complicated.
When secrets, tragedy, and poor decisions cause rifts in Amy's relationships, she must come to terms with who she's become, her unrealized aspirations for her life, and the state of her faith. Can she dare to hope that she will find love and fulfillment despite it all?
If you would like to read the first chapter of Amy Inspired, go HERE.
Tuesday, November 09, 2010
CFBA: Hatteras Girl by Alice Wisler
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Alice J. Wisler is an author, public speaker, advocate, and fundraiser. She has been a guest on several radio and TV programs to promote her self-published cookbooks, Slices of Sunlight and Down the Cereal Aisle. She graduated from Eastern Mennonite University and has traveled the country in jobs that minister to people. Alice was raised in Japan and currently resides in Durham, North Carolina.
Facts about Alice
* Born in Osaka, Japan and lived in Japan for 18 years
* Went to Kyoto International School and Canadian Academy
* Majored in Social Work and graduated in 1983 from Eastern Mennonite University
* Worked at a group home for disadvantaged kids outside of Philadelphia
* Taught English and Culture Orientation at a refugee camp in the Philippines
* Taught English as a Second Language in Japan
* Speaks and teaches on Writing the Heartache
* Has three kids on earth, and one in Heaven
* Recently got married to Carl on 2/7/09
ABOUT THE BOOK
There's one specific property Jackie dreams of purchasing: the Bailey Place, a fabulous old home where Jackie spent many happy childhood afternoons, a place that has now fallen into disrepair because of its outrageous price tag.
When Jackie meets handsome Davis Erickson, who holds the key to the Bailey Place, Jackie is sure God has answered both her prayers. But as Jackie learns some disturbing details about Davis's past, she begins to question her own motivation. Will she risk her long-held dreams to find out the truth?
If you would like to read the first chapter of Hatteras Girl, go HERE.
Monday, November 08, 2010
CFBA: Grace by Shelley Shepard Gray
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Shelley Shepard Gray is the beloved author of the Sisters of the Heart series, including Hidden, Wanted, and Forgiven. Before writing, she was a teacher in both Texas and Colorado. She now writes full time and lives in southern Ohio with her husband and two children. When not writing, Shelley volunteers at church, reads, and enjoys walking her miniature dachshund on her town's scenic bike trail.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Anna and Henry will be celebrating their first Christmas as a married couple, and for Katie and Jonathan Lundy, it's their first Christmas with baby Stefan. Winnie and Samuel Miller plan to stop by as well for a wonderful two weeks of family and rest.
But when two unexpected visitors show up, hoping to stay for Christmas, the family must test their commitment to hospitality. Levi is a widower who lost his wife four years ago and can't bear the thought of another Christmas alone. And Melody is a young pregnant woman who won't open up about how she ended up on her own at Christmas at almost nine months pregnant.
Anna, who knows a thing or two about keeping secrets, doesn't trust her, and strives to find out the truth about these two strangers who have disrupted their holiday. But as the Christmas spirit descends on them all, as well as snow that traps them in the inn, a healing and hopefulness takes over, allowing new relationships to be built, and the boundaries of family to be extended.
If you'd like to read the first chapter of Grace, go HERE.
Thursday, November 04, 2010
CFBA: Head in the Clouds by Karen Witemeyer
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
After growing up in California, Karen moved to Texas to attend Abilene Christian University where she earned bachelor and master's degrees in Psychology. It was also there that she met and married her own Texas hero. He roped her in good, for she has lived in Texas ever since. In fact, she fell so in love with this rugged land of sweeping sunsets and enduring pioneer spirit, that she incorporates it into the pages of her novels, setting her stories in the small towns of a state that burgeoned into greatness in the mid-to-late 1800s.
Karen is living her dream by writing Christian historical romance novels for Bethany House. When she visited her publisher back in January of 2010, she was interviewed by the staff. If you'd like a behind-the-scenes glimpse into how she develops her story ideas and a description of her bumpy journey to publication, go to her website to listen to a podcast of that interview.
ABOUT THE BOOK
When Gideon Westcott left his privileged life in England to make a name for himself in America's wool industry, he never expected to become a father overnight. And five-year-old Isabella hasn't uttered a word since she lost her mother. The unconventionality of the new governess concerns Gideon--and intrigues him at the same time. But he can't afford distractions. He has a ranch to run, a shearing to oversee, and a suspicious fence-cutting to investigate.
When Isabella's uncle comes to claim the child--and her inheritance--Gideon and Adelaide must work together to protect Isabella from the man's evil schemes. And soon neither can deny their growing attraction. But after so many heartbreaks, will Adelaide be willing to get her head out of the clouds and put her heart on the line?
If you would like to read the first chapter of Head in the Clouds, go HERE.
Monday, November 01, 2010
CFBA TOUR: The Preacher's Bride
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
ABOUT THE BOOK
If you would like to read the first chapter of The Preacher's Bride, go HERE.
Tuesday, October 05, 2010
AT THE MOVIES: Life As We Know It
Holly and Messer have a hate/hate relationship. They can’t believe of all people their friends picked them, when they can’t stand each other. How in the world can they make a family for Sophie?
Neither have a clue about raising a child or sharing a home. It is not as easy as they thought it would be. The neighbors step in an offer a few tips to help them get a little balance in their lives.
They find scheduling their lives on a calendar works until last minute changes forces them to see being a parent is serious business. Messer is the first to cave, he’s the play boy of the year and being a dad doesn’t look good for his single hood. He’s not use to being on a schedule, giving up his motorcycle and love life is wearing him down. He doesn’t know if he’s ready for this type of commitment.
Holly is trying to make the changes work, but financially it’s a lot more than she thought. She has to put off a few changes in her career, but she’s willing to do this for Sophie.
The social worker assigned to their case, doesn’t believe they can make it as a family. She wants to see some type of commitment before she can recommend them for full custody.
Holly and Messer move past the hate for each other and realize they are actually attracted to each other, but is it enough to build a family on? Messer receives a job offer in another city and he has to decide if he should take it or stick with his commitment to Sophie?
Life As We Know it is a romantic comedy. I really enjoyed this movie. It is a great date night or girl’s night out movie. You get your comedy, romance and family fun all rolled up in one. I definitely will be adding it to my DVD collection.
I attended a complimentary screening of this movie to facilitate my review and received a gift card from Mom Central as a thank you for my time.
Monday, September 20, 2010
A Hope Undaunted Blog Tour
“Available September 2010 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”
MY REVIEW:
As a fan of Julie Lessman, I look forward to the continuing saga of the O’Connor family. She never disappoints as she spins the next tale. Katie is the baby girl of the family and probably the most headstrong. She doesn’t like her father running her life and wants her freedom to do as she pleases.
One night she misses curfew and her father decides her punishment will be a summer without her sweetheart, Jack and her volunteering at the local orphanage, a decision that would change her life forever.
Katie is not thrilled at the idea of volunteering or working for her worse enemy, child hood friend, Luke McGee. The man she loves to hate. Their child hood rivalry has grown into an attraction that Katie refuses to acknowledge.
I enjoy Ms. Lessman’s style of writing. She introduces history into the story without overwhelming you. It was fun learning about the roaring twenties and different historical figures during this time. Katie keeps you on your toes as you read about her different antics. Will she choose the man who fits all her criterias or will she choose the man who flips her heart?
This book was provided for review by Revell.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Jazz, Java and Jesus Blog Tour
Aleysha, tell us about Jazz, Java & Jesus.
Jazz, Java & Jesus is twenty-four Christian devotions and puzzles about jazz, java and Jesus. It’s the perfect book to take to a coffee or tea house, or anywhere, and meditate on the promises of God. After reading each devotional, you'll see the hand of God throughout the ages and KNOW that He's able to help you successfully get through whatever you're facing.
How did you come up with ideas for this book?
This particular book is the result of me writing devotions for an online Bible study group over an 18 month period.
Did you have to do quite a bit of research for your book?
Yes and No. Yes, because I did do research for each devotion (24 of them) and no because I already know the Word of God so a lot of the information was already innate.
What do you hope readers will learn/discover from reading Jazz, Java & Jesus?
I hope that the readers will learn that NO MATTER what they’re going through that God is able to deliver them out of everything!
Okay, a not-so-fun question. How important are reviews to you as a writer?
Reviews are good for other readers. As the writer, I’m incredibly inspired when a reader tells me that they were inspired, or their faith has been increased, after reading my books.
Twenty-four Christian devotions and puzzles about jazz, java and Jesus. The perfect book to take to a coffee or tea house, or anywhere, and meditate on the promises of God.
Jazz, Java and Jesus Twitter Party
Chat with Aleysha LIVE on Twitter on September 20, 2010 at 8:00 pm EST
Follow Aleysha at http://twitter.com/AleyshaProctor
Follow the moderator Tywebbin Blog Tours at http://twitter.com/tcblogtours
GIVEAWAYS INCLUDE:
• (4) signed copies of “Jazz, Java & Jesus” by Aleysha Proctor
• (4) copies of “Everyday With Jesus: Daily Devotional” by TBN (Trinity Broadcast Network)
• $25 Target gift card
• $25 Starbucks gift card courtesy of Tywebbin.com
Use the following Twitter Hashtags to be eligible for winning a prize.
#AleyshaProctor #JazzJavaJesus #Aleyshasbooktour
Book Trailer
Podcast
Purchase the Book Online at:
• Amazon - http://www.amazon.com/Jazz-Java-Jesus-Aleysha-Proctor/dp/1441574352/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1281223302&sr=8-2
• BarnesandNoble – http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Jazz-Java-Jesus/Aleysha-R-Proctor/e/9781441574350/?itm=2&USRI=aleysha+proctor
• Books A Million – http://www.booksamillion.com/product/9781441574350?id=4715246323067
For More Information
• Visit Aleysha online at http://www.aleyshaproctor.com/.
• View the blog tour schedule at http://bit.ly/JazzJavaandJesusTour
Monday, August 23, 2010
I Need A Hero
As a teenager I found my first hero in Bo Brady (Peter Reckel) from Days of Our Lives. Not only was he gorgeous with his hairy chest and full beard. He had a body to match. I loved that he was a bad boy with a little good in him. He would kick butt then kiss you senseless. He was romantic and believed in making a living. When he road his motorcycle you wanted to be behind him squeezing tight. For years I compared guys I dated to Bo. Most didn’t live up to this hero, but that was OK because I had hope that I would find my own hero.
As a writer I find myself picturing the heroes I create. Are they similar to Bo? Sometimes, but most times not. I think I’ve out grown Bo, but I still like his qualities in an hero.
What do you like in a hero?
Thursday, August 19, 2010
10000 Steps
A few years ago my office participated in the 10,000 steps program. You have to walk 10,000 steps a day. 10,000 steps are close to 5 miles. I usually ended up with 7000 – 8000 steps per day.
I decided to try this again for the rest of the year. My blood pressure has been off the charts lately, so I’m watching what I eat and trying to get my exercise in by doing this 10,000 steps program.
I found I like to walk more than I like exercising. I also found that I will talk myself out of exercising but you’re walking constantly so, if I get in 2000 steps, that means I’m moving around more.
How are you staying in shape this year?
I decided to try this again for the rest of the year. My blood pressure has been off the charts lately, so I’m watching what I eat and trying to get my exercise in by doing this 10,000 steps program.
I found I like to walk more than I like exercising. I also found that I will talk myself out of exercising but you’re walking constantly so, if I get in 2000 steps, that means I’m moving around more.
How are you staying in shape this year?
Thursday, August 05, 2010
My name is Rose
A friend sent this to me and I thought I would share.
The first day of school our professor introduced himself and challenged us to get to know someone we didn't already know. I stood up to look around when a gentle hand touched my shoulder.
I turned around to find a wrinkled, little old lady beaming up at me with a smile that lit up her entire being..
She said, 'Hi handsome. My name is Rose. I'm eighty-seven years old. Can I give you a hug?'
I laughed and enthusiastically responded, 'Of course you may!' and she gave me a giant squeeze..
'Why are you in college at such a young, innocent age?' I asked.
She jokingly replied, 'I'm here to meet a rich husband, get married, and have a couple of kids...'
'No seriously,' I asked. I was curious what may have motivated her to be taking on this challenge at her age.
'I always dreamed of having a college education and now I'm getting one!' she told me.
After class we walked to the student union building and shared a chocolate milkshake.
We became instant friends. Every day for the next three months we would leave class together and talk nonstop. I was always mesmerized listening to this 'time machine' as she shared her wisdom and experience with me..
Over the course of the year, Rose became a campus icon and she easily made friends wherever she went. She loved to dress up and she reveled in the attention bestowed upon her from the other students. She was living it up.
At the end of the semester we invited Rose to speak at our football banquet. I'll never forget what she taught us. She was introduced and stepped up to the podium. As she began to deliver her prepared speech, she dropped her three by five cards on the floor.
Frustrated and a little embarrassed she leaned into the microphone and simply said, 'I'm sorry I'm so jittery. I gave up beer for Lent and this whiskey is killing me! I'll never get my speech back in order so let me just tell you what I know.'
As we laughed she cleared her throat and began, ' We do not stop playing because we are old; we grow old because we stop playing.
There are only four secrets to staying young, being happy, and achieving success. You have to laugh and find humor every day. You've got to have a dream. When you lose your dreams, you die.
We have so many people walking around who are dead and don't even know it!
There is a huge difference between growing older and growing up.
If you are nineteen years old and lie in bed for one full year and don't do one productive thing, you will turn twenty years old. If I am eighty-seven years old and stay in bed for a year and never do anything I will turn eighty-eight.
Anybody! Can grow older. That doesn't take any talent or ability. The idea is to grow up by always finding opportunity in change. Have no regrets.
The elderly usually don't have regrets for what we did, but rather for things we did not do. The only people who fear death are those with regrets..'
She concluded her speech by courageously singing 'The Rose.'
She challenged each of us to study the lyrics and live them out in our daily lives. At the year's end Rose finished the college degree she had begun all those months ago.
One week after graduation Rose died peacefully in her sleep.
Over two thousand college students attended her funeral in tribute to the wonderful woman who taught by example that it's never too late to be all you can possibly be.
When you finish reading this, please send this peaceful word of advice to your friends and family, they'll really enjoy it!
These words have been passed along in loving memory of ROSE.
REMEMBER, GROWING OLDER IS MANDATORY. GROWING UP IS OPTIONAL. We make a Living by what we get. We make a Life by what we give.
God promises a safe landing, not a calm passage. If God brings you to it, He will bring you through it.
The first day of school our professor introduced himself and challenged us to get to know someone we didn't already know. I stood up to look around when a gentle hand touched my shoulder.
I turned around to find a wrinkled, little old lady beaming up at me with a smile that lit up her entire being..
She said, 'Hi handsome. My name is Rose. I'm eighty-seven years old. Can I give you a hug?'
I laughed and enthusiastically responded, 'Of course you may!' and she gave me a giant squeeze..
'Why are you in college at such a young, innocent age?' I asked.
She jokingly replied, 'I'm here to meet a rich husband, get married, and have a couple of kids...'
'No seriously,' I asked. I was curious what may have motivated her to be taking on this challenge at her age.
'I always dreamed of having a college education and now I'm getting one!' she told me.
After class we walked to the student union building and shared a chocolate milkshake.
We became instant friends. Every day for the next three months we would leave class together and talk nonstop. I was always mesmerized listening to this 'time machine' as she shared her wisdom and experience with me..
Over the course of the year, Rose became a campus icon and she easily made friends wherever she went. She loved to dress up and she reveled in the attention bestowed upon her from the other students. She was living it up.
At the end of the semester we invited Rose to speak at our football banquet. I'll never forget what she taught us. She was introduced and stepped up to the podium. As she began to deliver her prepared speech, she dropped her three by five cards on the floor.
Frustrated and a little embarrassed she leaned into the microphone and simply said, 'I'm sorry I'm so jittery. I gave up beer for Lent and this whiskey is killing me! I'll never get my speech back in order so let me just tell you what I know.'
As we laughed she cleared her throat and began, ' We do not stop playing because we are old; we grow old because we stop playing.
There are only four secrets to staying young, being happy, and achieving success. You have to laugh and find humor every day. You've got to have a dream. When you lose your dreams, you die.
We have so many people walking around who are dead and don't even know it!
There is a huge difference between growing older and growing up.
If you are nineteen years old and lie in bed for one full year and don't do one productive thing, you will turn twenty years old. If I am eighty-seven years old and stay in bed for a year and never do anything I will turn eighty-eight.
Anybody! Can grow older. That doesn't take any talent or ability. The idea is to grow up by always finding opportunity in change. Have no regrets.
The elderly usually don't have regrets for what we did, but rather for things we did not do. The only people who fear death are those with regrets..'
She concluded her speech by courageously singing 'The Rose.'
She challenged each of us to study the lyrics and live them out in our daily lives. At the year's end Rose finished the college degree she had begun all those months ago.
One week after graduation Rose died peacefully in her sleep.
Over two thousand college students attended her funeral in tribute to the wonderful woman who taught by example that it's never too late to be all you can possibly be.
When you finish reading this, please send this peaceful word of advice to your friends and family, they'll really enjoy it!
These words have been passed along in loving memory of ROSE.
REMEMBER, GROWING OLDER IS MANDATORY. GROWING UP IS OPTIONAL. We make a Living by what we get. We make a Life by what we give.
God promises a safe landing, not a calm passage. If God brings you to it, He will bring you through it.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Are You On The Net? July Online Promotional Tips
My first column on online promotion is up today at -SORMAG's Blog.
Stop by and see what I have to share.
Sunday, July 25, 2010
CFBA: Stars In The Night by Cara Putman
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
I graduated from high school at sixteen, college at 20, and completed my law degree when I was 27.
My writing journey started in 2005 when I decided to write my first novel. Now I have eleven books published with more on the way.
People say I've accomplished a lot and that I must have life by the proverbial tail. Hardly! I grew up as a home schooled kid when home schoolers were misunderstood and oddities.
I struggle with balancing my writing and law career, plus being a good mom and wife.
I often fear people won't like my books.
I've walked through the deep pain of miscarriage.
Really, I'm just like you – I don't have it all together and have gone through tough times. But in His strength, I've discovered a strength I never knew I had. A strength I want you to discover, too.
In the end I'm just an ordinary mom who has seen God do some wonderful things as I've been obedient to step into the calling He's led me into.
Stars in the Night Background
Stars in the Night was an idea that had begun to percolate in my mind. I’d written two World War II series and was actively looking for my next setting. My husband, a huge World War II history buff, and I were kicking ideas around, and I’d decided Hollywood was probably the next place for me. I’d gone to the library and gotten a stack of research books when I got the call. An editor I knew but had never worked with wanted to know if I might be interested in a new line they were starting. As we talked, I got so excited. And then she emailed me their guidelines, which listed that Hollywood was a location they were interested in setting books.
Only God could have known ahead of time. But because I followed His prompting I was ready to run with an idea. Stars in the Night is the result.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Any day Audra might have been flattered by the friendly overtures of Robert Garfield, a real-life movie star. But on the flight from Indianapolis to Hollywood, Audra can think of little else than finding her missing sister. When Audra arrives in the city of glitz and glamour, and stars, and learns her rising starlet sister has been murdered, all thoughts of romance fly away.
Determined to bring the killer to justice, Audra takes a job with the second Hollywood Victory Caravan.
Together with Robert Garfield and other stars, she crisscrosses the southern United States in a campaign to sell war bonds. When two other women are found dead on the train, Audra knows the deaths are tied to that of her sister.
Could the killer be the man with whom she's falling in love?
If you'd like to read an excerpt of Chapter 1 of Stars In The Night, go HERE.
Contest: Lots of opportunities to win and great prizes, and the grand prize contains some of Cara's favorite classic movies as well as all of her WWII novels: Launch Contest!
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Blog Tour: Shades of Morning by Marlo Schalesky
Shades of Morning by Marlo Schalesky
Marnie Wittier has life just where she wants it. Quiet. Peaceful. No drama. A long way away from her past. In the privacy of her home, she fills a box with slips of paper, scribbled with her regrets, sins, and sorrows. But that’s nobody else’s business. Her bookstore/coffee shop patrons, her employees, her friends from church—they all think she’s the very model of compassion and kindness.
Then Marnie’s past creeps into her present when her estranged sister dies and makes Marnie guardian of her fifteen-year-old son—a boy Marnie never knew existed. And when Emmit arrives, she discovers he has Down syndrome—and that she’s woefully unprepared to care for him. What’s worse, she has to deal with Taylor Cole, her sister’s attorney, a man Marnie once loved—and abandoned. As Emmit (and Taylor) work their way into her heart, Marnie begins to heal. But when pieces of her dismal past surface again, she must at last face the scripts of paper in her box, all the regrets and sorrows. Can she do it? Or will she run again?
Marlo Schalesky is the author of several books, including Beyond the Night and Empty Womb, Aching Heart. A graduate of Stanford University , Marlo also has a masters of theology with an emphasis in biblical studies from Fuller Theological Seminary. Married over twenty years, she lives with her husband, Bryan, and their five children in California
Then Marnie’s past creeps into her present when her estranged sister dies and makes Marnie guardian of her fifteen-year-old son—a boy Marnie never knew existed. And when Emmit arrives, she discovers he has Down syndrome—and that she’s woefully unprepared to care for him. What’s worse, she has to deal with Taylor Cole, her sister’s attorney, a man Marnie once loved—and abandoned. As Emmit (and Taylor) work their way into her heart, Marnie begins to heal. But when pieces of her dismal past surface again, she must at last face the scripts of paper in her box, all the regrets and sorrows. Can she do it? Or will she run again?
Marlo Schalesky is the author of several books, including Beyond the Night and Empty Womb, Aching Heart. A graduate of Stanford University , Marlo also has a masters of theology with an emphasis in biblical studies from Fuller Theological Seminary. Married over twenty years, she lives with her husband, Bryan, and their five children in California
Thursday, July 08, 2010
I Am Not My Hair: PRODUCTS
I’m learning so much about natural hair while on the no perm journey. I’ve talked about coloring my hair to hide the gray and I continue to look for a color that doesn’t dry my hair out. If you know of one, please share.
I’ve found that when I color my hair I have a different grade of hair each time. The first time the hair was super hard and dry. The products I used to moisturize it didn’t help much. I found a gel that was perfect and it worked for three colors then decided it wouldn’t work either.
I don't care for the hard dry hair, so I’m always on the moisturizer search, trying new products. Trying new products is not a cheap thing. What I don’t like is buying something and finding out it was a waste of money. I do like the sample products because I’m not spending a ton of money for product if it doesn’t work.
I’ve tried Carol Daughters and I must say I like the product, however the price keeps me from reordering.
I’ve tried Ms. Jessie and Curlz they did nothing for my hair.
I’ve noticed that what works for you might not work for me, which makes it hard to try products because you don’t know what results you’ll get when you put it on your hair.
How is your natural hair journey going? Share your experiences.
I’ve found that when I color my hair I have a different grade of hair each time. The first time the hair was super hard and dry. The products I used to moisturize it didn’t help much. I found a gel that was perfect and it worked for three colors then decided it wouldn’t work either.
I don't care for the hard dry hair, so I’m always on the moisturizer search, trying new products. Trying new products is not a cheap thing. What I don’t like is buying something and finding out it was a waste of money. I do like the sample products because I’m not spending a ton of money for product if it doesn’t work.
I’ve tried Carol Daughters and I must say I like the product, however the price keeps me from reordering.
I’ve tried Ms. Jessie and Curlz they did nothing for my hair.
I’ve noticed that what works for you might not work for me, which makes it hard to try products because you don’t know what results you’ll get when you put it on your hair.
How is your natural hair journey going? Share your experiences.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
CFBA: Refuge on Crescent Hill by Melanie Dobson
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Prior to launching Dobson Media Group in 1999, Melanie was the corporate publicity manager at Focus on the Family where she was responsible for the publicity of events, products, films, and TV specials. Melanie received her undergraduate degree in journalism from Liberty University and her master's degree in communication from Regent University. She has worked in the fields of publicity and journalism for fifteen years including two years as a publicist for The Family Channel.
Melanie and her husband, Jon, met in Colorado Springs in 1997 at Vanguard Church. Jon works in the field of computer animation. Since they've been married, the Dobsons have relocated numerous times including stints in Virginia, Tennessee, North Carolina, Colorado, Berlin, and Southern California. These days they are enjoying their new home in the Pacific Northwest.
Jon and Melanie have adopted their two daughters —Karly (6) and Kinzel (5). When Melanie isn't writing or entertaining their girls, she enjoys exploring ghost towns and dusty back roads, traveling, hiking, line dancing, and reading inspirational fiction.
ABOUT THE BOOK
THE HOMECOMING WASN’T WHAT SHE EXPECTED…
Jobless, homeless, and broke, Camden Bristow decides to visit the grandmother she hasn’t seen in years. But when Camden arrives in Etherton, Ohio, she discovers that her grandmother has passed away, leaving her the 150-year-old mansion on Crescent Hill. The site of her happiest summers as a child, the run-down mansion is now her only refuge.
When Camden finds evidence that she may not be the mansion’s only occupant, memories of Grandma Rosalie’s bedtime stories about secret passageways and runaway slaves fuel her imagination. What really happened at Crescent Hill? Who can she turn to for answers in this town full of strangers? And what motivates the handsome local Alex Yates to offer his help? As she works to uncover the past and present mysteries harbored in her home, Camdem uncovers deep family secrets within the mansion’s walls that could change her life─and the entire town─forever.
If you would like to read the first chapter of Refuge on Crescent Hill, go HERE.
Monday, June 28, 2010
CFBA: Simple Secrets byNancy Mehl
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
All of Nancy’s novels have an added touch – something for your spirit as well as your soul. “I welcome the opportunity to share my faith through my writing,” Nancy says. “It’s a part of me and of everything I think or do. God is number one in my life. I wouldn’t be writing at all if I didn’t believe that this is what He’s called me to do. I hope everyone who reads my books will walk away with the most important message I can give them: God is good, and He loves you more than you can imagine. He has a good plan especially for your life, and there is nothing you can’t overcome with His help.”
CREATING FICTION FULL OF FAITH, HOPE AND HEART…
Nancy Mehl is a mystery writer who loves to set her novels in her home state of Kansas. Her three-in-one book, COZY IN KANSAS, contains the first three Ivy Towers’s mysteries: IN THE DEAD OF WINTER, BYE BYE BERTIE, and FOR WHOM THE WEDDING BELL TOLLS which was nominated for the 2009 American Christian Fiction Writers Book of the Year Award in mystery.
She and her husband attend Believer’s Tabernacle in Wichita.
ABOUT THE BOOK
But Gracie Temple's uncle left her a house in a rural Mennonite community. She soon learns he secluded himself for years to protect a secret about her own father. Now it's up to Gracie to decide if she'll keep the secret or if she can afford to expose it.
Sam Goodrich loves his fruit farm in Harmony, Kansas. But when he meets city-girl Gracie, he begins to wonder if he could leave it behind for a woman who makes him feel things he's never felt before.
When someone tries to keep Gracie from discovering the truth behind the town's collection of secrets, will Sam and Gracie cling to their faith to help them decide what's most important...before it's too late?
If you would like to read the first chapter of Simple Secrets, go HERE.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
CFBA: Chasing Lilacs
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
FROM CARLA:
I grew up in the Texas Panhandle with two younger sisters and loving parents. Small town school. Great neighbors. Today, those small-town, fundamental things resonate within me -- the twang in people's voices, the art of being neighborly and just being a decent human being.
Growing up, I preferred the company of books over TV and playing outdoors. I imagined myself in many different careers, but given my down-to-earth raising, I settled on nursing. I didn't faint at the sight of blood and did well in science, so it seemed a natural choice.
I worked as a registered nurse off and on through the years, but primarily I stayed home with my four rambunctious boys and dreamed of the day when I could write the novels I loved to read. When our youngest son was in high school, I quit my job as a nursing instructor and settled in to pen my first novel. It's been quite a journey. One I wouldn't trade for anything.
I'm committed to writing the stories of my heart and am truly thankful to Jesus, my Savior, for allowing me this freedom. May all the glory be His.
Chasing Lilacs is her first book!
ABOUT THE BOOK
When her mother commits suicide and a not-so-favorite aunt arrives, Sammie has to choose who to trust with her deepest fears: Her best friend who has an opinion about everything, the mysterious kid from California whose own troubles plague him, or her round-faced neighbor with gentle advice and strong shoulders to cry on. Then there's the elderly widower who seems nice but has his own dark past.
Trusting is one thing, but accepting the truth may be the hardest thing Sammie has ever done.
If you would like to read the first chapter of Chasing Lilacs, go HERE.
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