Cross Country Adventure - Day Eight

And so we come to my final entry. Three weeks - 8,000 miles. I can't  believe we drove so far and discovered so much in such a short period of time. I'm sad the reliving is done, just as I was nine years ago.

Time to see how it all turned out.


Sunday, October 22, 2006

We maneuvered the winding highway through the Shasta National Forest and anticipation filled me. When we stopped in the small mountain town of Weed my eagerness intensified. We were almost home!

While high in the Siskiyou Mountains we passed a sign that said, "Welcome to Oregon." We'd arrived in our home state and it felt good. Yet, the best was yet to come. We descended into a valley north of the Siskiyou Mountains where golden hills cast in shadows and surrounded by forests welcomed us.

We continued north,, navigating familiar mountains. The evergreens were taller, their girth greater, and the forests were dense with Douglas Fir and Cedar. The final few miles we traveled from Roseburg to Glide were a balm to my need for home. Sheep and cattle grazed on honey-colored hills and the colorful oak and dark thick forests shouted, HOME!

In spite of all the grandeur, beauty, and fascinating people and sites we've encountered the last three weeks, there's just no place like home. Fall arrived while we were gone. The air is cool and the smells of evergreen and overripe blackberries welcome me. Before leaving for church today, I stepped onto my front porch and savored the morning crispness and the mists hanging over the meadow in front of my house.

As I contemplate our journey it's clear that God favored us with His presence and His mercy throughout our adventure. He revealed to us so much of Himself and His creation. We felt His protection and took comfort in the prayers of our friends.

A cross country trip may seem a small thing to some (after all we didn't travel to the other side of the planet), but I'm changed. Travel isn't easy for me. My body sometimes betrays me and I can't push it too far. But every ache and pain was worth the insight, wonderment, pleasure and knowledge that I gained. God's hand is truly upon this country, and we are blessed too live here.

I learned many lessons on this trip and praise God for allowing me to go. I know better how much He loves me, just as I am. And my confidence in Him is greater than ever.

May you know the joy and wonderment our glorious God offers to each of us."


It's been fun to relive the journey. I had no idea then that it would take me nine years to find the time and the heart to write the book I traveled so far to research. But God's timing is perfect and I trust Him.

Of course only a little of what we saw could be posted this week, and I hope you'll read the book To Dance With Dolphins to experience more of our incredible journey and how it affected my characters and their story.


Today's Question:  What place to you call home?

Today's Gift:  I'm going to give away two gifts - a copy of my book, To Dance With Dolphins. After all, it is the reason for our journey. 

And with Christmas so close I want to include the beautiful holiday sounds of Mannheim Steamroller. There are no Christmas sounds quite like theirs.  

You still have time to visit the last eight blog entries and leave an answer and win gifts! I'll be drawing the winners names this Wednesday.


Grace and peace to you from God,

Bonnie

Steadfast - Guest Blogger, Teresa Pollard

Another Wednesday and another guest. It is my pleasure to welcome, Teresa Pollard.

Teresa Pollard is from Richmond, Virginia, and was saved at a young age.  She has a Masters degree in English and Creative Writing from Hollins College, and has served as a Sunday School teacher and children’s worker for most of the last forty years.

Married for forty years, she was devastated by divorce and the death of her youngest daughter, but God has blessed her with a new home and another grandson, and she now resides in Dacula, Georgia.  Her website is http://www.TeresaPollardWrites.com.
http://www.Teresatalkstaboo.Wordpress.com




The Breaks

Yet those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary.  Isaiah 40:31

“Give me a break.”  People have been using that expression all my life (long before they made Kit Kat bars).  But what does it mean? “Have mercy?” Or, “Forgive me?” Or, maybe  ... On the other hand, I’ve also heard all my life, “That’s the breaks,” meaning “Tough luck, you fool.”  

So which is it?  What is a “break”?

I suppose it’s both.  It’s a fork in the road where we have to make a choice.  Do we keep going along the same path we have been traveling or do we turn in a different direction?  Maybe the “big break” is straight ahead, waiting just around the bend where it can’t be seen yet.  But maybe it’s in that turn if we take the risk of making it.  

Sometimes we make the right choice. We find the “big break.”  Or maybe, what we found wasn’t what we were looking for at all, but for us, it’s even better.  

But what if we made the wrong choice?  What if we were supposed to make that turn a few miles back, and we missed it entirely. Are we just supposed to keep trudging on, putting one foot if front of the other? 

I don’t think so.  I think that’s exactly when we’re supposed to cry out to our Heavenly Father, “Abba, Daddy, please give me a break. I’ve lost my way, and I can’t find the path. 

Getting lost is always easy.  Until recently, I thought I was the most directionally challenged person on Earth.  Now I know better.  That “honor” belongs to my roommate!  Finding our way back to the right road is usually much more difficult. But God is good.  He’s merciful, and He has given us His Holy Spirit to help, comfort, and guide us.  

The only problem is we don’t always listen. It’s like we’re little children who babble, “I can do it myself” when we know, deep down, that we really can’t.  

But, maybe sometimes, the problem is that we aren’t lost at all. We’re actually right where He wants us to be, but we’re in a holding pattern (yes, I know I’m mixing my metaphors!) and 
we’re getting frustrated at the wait. We don’t know what lies ahead, and the temptation is to settle for something less than God’s best.  

My prayer is, “Lord, please help me to never again settle for less than Your best.”  

Not Guilty

It's 1974 and Carrie Shepherd, daughter of the minister at Windspree Community Church, is a college senior with plans to be a missionary in Africa. Raped by a masked assailant, Carrie is so traumatized she tells no one until she realizes  she's pregnant. Refusing to have an abortion, she must find the courage to face her family, her fiance, her friends, and a gossiping, angry congregation which m may include her attacker.

This book sounds great and Teresa is offering a free copy of Not Guilty or a copy of her soon to release, Not Ashamed. All you have to do for a chance to win is leave a comment. Make sure to include your email address so Teresa can contact you.

Grace and peace to you from God,

Bonnie

Guest Blogger - Preslaysa Williams

Ever wonder how to balance work and parenting? My guest this week has some helpful hints when it comes to the balancing act. Welcome Preslaysa Williams. 

Preslaysa Williams (pronounced press-lay-suh) is a novelist and expert multi-tasker. She writes and edits fiction while her children nap and reads novels during her (almost) daily walks.

A 2013 ACFW Genesis finalist and a 2014 ACFW Genesis semi-finalist, she writes inspirational romance and middle grade fiction of the happily ever after sort.

Visit her online at
www.preslaysa.com

10 Ways to Nurture a Mama-Writing Life

Life with small children comes with a multitude of challenges. There have been many times I've walked the grocery store aisle with my two energetic children wearing a dazed, deer-in-headlights mama look on my face. Well-meaning people have come up to me and said, “Oh these are the
best years of your life. Enjoy those little ones.” I’d think to myself: Umm, it’s kind of tough to enjoy anything right now when my son is wielding a breakable bottle of Kikkoman Soy Sauce and my daughter has maneuvered her way out of the child straps in the shopping cart.

But who am I to complain?

Aside from these (very frequent) moments, I enjoy being with my children. They are cute and funny and shockingly wise at times. I also enjoy writing. For me, these two activities have shaped the grown up version of me (Preslaysa: version 2.0). However, it’s a daily challenge to squeeze in mothering and writing in one day. When I awaken each morning an internal clock starts its countdown. This internal clock reminds me I have only so many hours to do the following:

• Fill my daily writing quota

• Fill my daily editing quota

• Do any social media/blog promotion tasks

• Do homeschool lessons with the children

• Read good storybooks to the children

• Oversee and assist my son’s violin practice

• Oversee and train my children to do a simple chore or two

• Manage the inevitable child tantrum(s) or sibling squabble(s).

• Do my daily chores

• Do my weekly chores

• Update the budget, pay bills, etc.

• Read a novel

• And oh yeah, take a shower, brush my teeth and get dressed or something...

I’m pretty sure you, Mama Writer, have a pretty full plate too. Here are 5 ways to ensure you thrive both as a mom and as a writer.

1) Have a dedicated writing space. As moms, we spend a lot of time in giving mode and very little time nurturing our creative spirit. Set aside a space in your home that is off limits to children. A “room of your own” to quote Virginia Woolf. It doesn’t have to be a full room. A small desk or table away from the main activity of the family will do. You don’t always have to write in that space, of course, but knowing it’s waiting for you provides a psychological boost. You are telling yourself that the work you do as a writer matters, regardless of whether you are published or pre-published.

2) Steal time. This is one of my favorite techniques for writing. When my children are playing or eating or napping, I take out my handy dandy notebook and start writing, or I’ll pull out a page from a rough draft and start editing. These little moments add up quickly.

3) Carry a notebook or index cards with you. Collect ideas for stories or blog posts, lines of dialogue, character snippets, and rough scene outlines for later use. This will help guard against that mythical idea called “writer’s block.” When you sit down to write, you’ll have a bunch of ideas ready to flesh out. If you use index cards, make sure they are attached to a ring binder for ease of use.

4) Use a Timer. I love timers. A timer keeps me on track during the day. I have two - one for upstairs and one for downstairs. I also have a timer on my wristwatch. (I’m a little obsessive about timers!) For 2015, I recently found a great Google Extension called Stay Focused which will block me out of social media sites after I fill my daily time limit quota on sites like Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, etc. I tell you, Stay Focused made me quickly prioritize
how I spend my time on social media! These tools alone have kept me more focused and less idle. They’ve empowered me to actually do the work that shapes my greater calling as a wife,

5) Use checklists. I am also a checklist person. It’s not because I am particularly organized; I am quite the opposite. Checklists are my taskmaster. I’ve created a checklist that maps out my normal morning, afternoon and evening routines. I don’t follow my checklists to a T, and that’s okay. I can go to bed with an unfinished checklist guilt free. I have another day to accomplish those tasks. However, if I didn’t have the checklist to remind me, I’d be all scrambled up! Checklists simply tell me to do what matters whenever I am prone to get lost in the World Wide Web. Checklists are a girl’s best friend.

There you have it: five easy ways to manage a writing life and motherhood. What have you done to manage this Great Balancing Act?


Preslaysa, when I first entered the world of writing I had young children. I well remember how difficult it was to balance my writing career and mothering. Thank you for these helpful guidelines.

Although Preslaysa doesn't yet have a book ready to purchase, she is hard at work. She's creating an inspirational romance set in Charleston, South Carolina while also writing a middle grade novel placed in New York, NY.

Cheering for you, Preslaysa!

It's Wednesday 

which means FREE books!

This week I'm giving away a complete series.

To qualify for the drawing, all you need to do is leave a comment. Make sure to include your email address so I can contact you.

Our winner from last week is Deanna Stevens!

Grace and peace to you from God,

Bonnie

Steadfast - Guest Blogger Cathy Elliott

It's my pleasure to have the delightful, Cathy Elliott as my guest today. We met many years ago at a writing conference. I've never forgotten her open, friendly personality and gentle spirit. Her story is special. I'm not surprised.  

Cathy Elliott is a full-time writer who lives in northern California. Her cozy mysteries reflect her personal interests from quilting and antique collecting to playing her fiddle with friends.
She also leads music at church and cherishes time with her grandchildren.

Cathy’s other plot-twisting works include Medals in the Attic and A Vase of Mistaken Identity.

Website & Occasional Blog - www.cathyelliottbooks.com
Pinterest - https://www.pinterest.com/cathyelliott10/
Facebook – Author Cathy Elliott cathyelliottbooks.com


Unexpected Healing:

When folks ask me, “Why do you write?” I tell them I write for joy.
     Now looking back, I can see another purpose for my writing. Yes, joy is a definite payback for every page of every story. But there is more.
     Thirteen years ago, my writing journey was new. I had just signed with an agent and was hard at work on my first novel, anticipating how God would bless my writer journey.
     A long weekend dawned and I had big plans. Mostly, plans to enjoy time off work while upping my word count ... after I slept late.
     At about 7:00 a.m. on Saturday morning, my phone rang, frightening me awake.
     “Hello?” I said, my voice groggy. Please let this be a wrong number!
     “Your dad won’t wake up. Can you come out?” My mother’s tone was tinged with desperation. “I don’t know what to do!”
     Thus began a very uncertain and emotional time for both of us. After a fall in the night that left him with a brain bleed, Daddy had to be hospitalized. We faced decisions about surgery, and later, witnessed a rehabilitation that didn’t take. It was a great deal for my mother to endure at her advanced age.
     Behind the scene, I fought my own selfish thoughts. Did this mean I must put aside my writing? How could I come alongside my mom when I was writing a book? All the doors that had opened for me seemed as if they must swing the opposite way now.
     After Daddy awoke from surgery, recognized me, and smiled his beautiful smile, I knew I could give up writing. My heart seemed to dance with the possibility of his return to health. Much might be required of me in this season, but I was so glad for more time with him. Whatever it took, I told myself, swallowing hard. I could do it!
     One day, I came home to a message flashing on my answering machine. “I have a publishing house interested in your manuscript. I know you were doing some rewrites, but can you finish fast?” my agent asked. “I want to send the proposal to them right away!”
     What? Interest from an editor in something I’d written? I knew then that God had not asked me to give up writing. I marveled at His kindness, wondering how quickly I could pull these rewrites together. I grabbed my computer to take with me and zoomed
out to pick up my mom for a visit with her sweetheart.
     After that, I took my laptop often when we went on our visits. I’d read emails to Daddy from family, then work a little on my book while he and Mother chatted together.
     Whenever we left the nursing home, we were overcome with sadness. Daddy seemed to be slipping backwards. To cope, mom read books I brought her from the library. I spent joyous time in Thea’s fictive world, writing my first book, A Vase of Mistaken Identity.
     And in the doing, I found healing.
     My dear Dad didn’t live long enough to see it published, but I mentioned him in the dedication, hoping he could see from heaven. I’m sure he had better things to do there, but I know he would have been proud, had he still been here.
     Years passed, I had another book published, and my mother became more and more frail, moving into an assisted living facility. Two years ago, she fell and broke her hip, starting her on a slow downward slide, never fully recovering. That October, her physician counseled me that it was time for Mother to go on hospice. She had lost that sparkle and wouldn’t eat, sleeping much of the time.
     I couldn’t bear the idea, but I knew the doctor was right. And so I filled out the paperwork and waited, trying to tempt her to eat, treasuring every moment in her company, and sad to my core.
     But God had a new plan. I got another call from my agent. The second adventure starring my dear little amateur sleuth, Thea James, had been sold to Abingdon Press as a part of their Quilts of Love series. I had another book to write. A sweet diversion to think
about and to enjoy as I walked alongside my mother in her final journey.
     Again, Thea made me laugh with her crazy antics as she pulled me into her world. I couldn’t stay sad for long. When Mother’s journey was so hard for us both, I could delight in Thea’s British War-Bride Gram and her bumbling ways. When my mom was
sleeping through our visits, I could have an inner chat with Thea and she with me. I plotted her adventures and devised how my clumsy protagonist might stumble out of another scrape. And again in the writing, there was healing for my wounded heart.
     Then, in the middle of what seemed our last days together, my mother began to awaken. She started to eat again, talk to the caregivers, and smile her beautiful, blessing of a smile. Her health returned and to everyone’s amazement, she graduated off hospice
and lived well enough for another two years.
     On this section of the journey, as before, God provided opportunities for me to write about Thea and company, in the form of a book contract. Then, while I found joy and healing in the doing of the thing, He gently healed Mother, too, giving her more time to
cast her sweetness about. And giving me more precious time with her.
     How glad I am that God gave me Thea and her stories to write during those difficult times. It truly gave me great joy. And the unexpected blessing of healing.

A Stitch in Crime

Free to one of you.

  Thea James thought working as co-chair for Larkindale's first quilt show extravaganza would be a natural extension of her antique business. But while organizing the busy week's premiere events would make anyone frayed, she doesn't expect a complete unraveling!
   At the opening soiree, local matriarch Mary-Alice Wentworth is knocked unconscious and robbed of her diamond brooch. Soon a rare quilt - the main attraction and a rumored key to great riches - goes missing. Those who signed up to help Thea are strangely no help at all. What more could possibly happen?

   Amid a cast of colorful characters and a tight schedule of garden galas, tea parties, and televised socials, everything is falling apart at the seams - and nothing is quite what it seems. Can Thea sew everything back together?


"...Fans of inspirational fiction will enjoy the funny, feel-good whodunit."
Publishers Weekly Review - November 7, 2014

“…There is mystery and laughter, and Elliott’s characters are strong, confident and
determined to make their mark….Fans will want to add this gem to their keeper shelf.”
RT 4-Star Review November 12, 2014

This sounds like a fun, fabulous story, Cathy! Thanks for being my guest.

If you'd like to be included in a drawing to win a FREE copy of A Stitch in Crime leave a comment. Please include your email address so Cathy can contact the winner.

Last week's winner of Nancy Mehl's book, Deadly Echoes is ...
Loraine Nunley! Congratulations!

Grace and peace to you from God,

Bonnie

  

Steadfast - Guest Blogger Nancy Mehl

Welcome to Nancy Mehl, this week's guest. Thanks for joining us, Nancy. It's wonderful to have you here.

Nancy Mehl lives in Festus, Missouri, with her husband, Norman, and her very active puggle, Watson. She’s authored twenty books and just finished a new series for Bethany House Publishing. The first book in her Finding Sanctuary series, “Gathering Shadows” was released in May of 2014. The second book, “Deadly Echoes” became available in February.  The third book, “Rising Darkness will release late in 2015. She is also working on an Amish cozy mystery series for Guideposts.

Readers can learn more about Nancy through her Web site: www.nancymehl.com. She is part of The Suspense Sisters: www.suspensesisters.blogspot.com, along with several other popular suspense authors. She is also very active on Facebook.


Secret Wounds

Some secrets reveal themselves as wonderful surprises. Like finding out your first grandchild is on the way, or walking into a surprise party planned by friends. But other secrets are cloaked in pain and hidden away, just like the secrets that are revealed in Deadly Echoes, the second book in my Finding Sanctuary series.

My main character, Sarah Miller, is confronted by the past when her sister, Hannah, is murdered. Her story is marked by a journey that not only brings physical danger, but also emotional challenges. Her story made me think about how many of us bury painful secrets in our hearts that need to be brought into the light.

As a child, I was unhappy when my parents divorced. My brother and I lived with my mother, who suffered from depression and anxiety. There was no one in my life to talk to about the insecurity I felt on an almost daily basis.

I learned to hide the pain, pushing it behind an emotional door where I wouldn’t have to face it. This trait followed me throughout my life until one day, during a difficult situation at my church, that door burst open.

God was faithful and walked me through a very dark valley until I was able to see the light again. From this painful experience, I learned that we’re not equipped to carry our burdens alone. That our secret wounds will only keep us in bondage. This is why Jesus tells us to cast our burdens on Him–to trade our sorrow for His joy.

Sarah will have to confront the past, just as I did. She will need to find the courage to face the truth – even though it hurts. But as Jesus promised, the truth has the power to set us free. Our healing will come from seeing ourselves through God’s eyes and believing His word over our pain.

One of my favorite scriptures is Jeremiah 29:11. God says: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” 

What a great promise! Looking forward to that future comes when we can finally break free from the chains of the past.

One of you will win a FREE copy 
of Nancy's new book.

After a youth filled with tragedy and upheaval, Sarah Miller's life is finally settled with all echoes of the past silent at last. She happily calls Sanctuary her home and spends her days teaching at the local school.

Sarah's joy at her recent reunion with her sister, Hannah, and meeting the niece she didn't know she had is too soon interrupted when Deputy Sheriff Paul Gleason informs Sarah her sister has been killed.

As she learns more about Hannah's death, the circumstances are eerily similar to their parents' murder. Sarah enlists Paul's help in digging deeper into the murders the police are dismissing as burglaries gone wrong. Paul's concern encourages Sarah's growing feelings for him, but as their investigation peels back the layers of lies almost twenty years old, they get close to uncovering the truth one person will do anything to hide--even if that means coming after the last remaining members of the Miller family.


Wow, Deadly Echoes sounds like one of those books that keeps a reader on the edge of her seat.

If you'd like a chance to win a free copy, just leave a comment. Please include your email address so Nancy can contact you.

And from last week, the winner of Paula Mowery's book, Legacy & Love, is Maxie! Congratulations!

Grace and peace to you from God,

Bonnie

Steadfast - Blogging Guest Carole Brown

It's hard to believe it's February already. And it's Wednesday. Welcome to Carol Brown, this week's guest. 

Brown not only has her award winning (Nominated for an Epic Award, RWA International Digital Awards finalist in Inspiration, Laurel Award finalist, Selah finalist; Genesis semi-finalist) debut novel, The Redemption of Caralynne Hayman, available for purchase now, but a companion book called West Virginia Scrapbook: From the Life of Caralynne Hayman, filled with tidbits of information about West Virginia, quotes, recipes from West Virginia and from Caralynne’s life, pictures and discussion questions for the novel.

November, 2013, the first book in her mystery series, Hog Insane, released. It’s a fun, lighthearted novel introducing the characters, Denton and Alex Davies. Look for the second book, Bat Crazy, late 2014 winter.

Released November 1, 2014, is the first book in a new WWII romantic suspense series: With Music In Their Hearts. Three red-headed sisters. Three spies. Three stories.

Besides being a member and active participant of many writing groups, Carole Brown enjoys mentoring beginning writers. She loves to weave suspense and tough topics into her books, along with a touch of romance and whimsy, and is always on the lookout for outstanding titles and catchy ideas. She and her husband reside in SE Ohio but have ministered and counseled nationally and internationally. Together, they enjoy their grandsons, traveling, gardening, good food, the simple life, and did she mention their grandsons?

Connect with her here:
Personal blog: http://sunnebnkwrtr.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CaroleBrown.author
Twitter:  https://twitter.com/browncarole212
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/sunnywrtr/boards/
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/5237997-carole-brown

Carole is also am part of several other blogs:
Stitches in Time:  http://stitchesthrutime.blogspot.com/
Barn Door Book Loft: http://www.barndoorbookloft.net/


Some good advice from Carole -

No, she couldn’t leave the boarding house to Papa and her sisters to run. She would have to stick it out. ~~from With Music in Their Hearts

Discontented? Discouraged? Facing more than you think you can handle?

I was feeling stressed out, tired and over anxious about nothing and everything. Snappish at the one person I adore in this world--my husband, offended at the slightest provocation at others’ supposed slights, and trying to hide the impatience I felt at my friend’s “unimportant” complaints. 

Couldn’t they see how overworked I was?
How could they ask me to do another task?
Why couldn’t I get this long list completed?

Ever feel like you were the proverbial camel eyeing that last straw a big hand was getting ready to lay on your back?

No matter whether you’re an author/writer or a fellow-laborer for the God we serve, at times we take on too much, we try to be super-human, when what we really need to do is:

• Say no. We are not the only person who can coordinate that needed project! Pick and choose what’s right for you, what interests you, and/or what will benefit you or you feel is really important. You will sometimes be made to feel you are failing because you won’t or can’t do the project being handed you. Don’t let anyone control you like that. When a project interferes with your happiness and peace, or your family time or God’s time, then it’s wrong for you. Say no.
• Remember that the list will still be here tomorrow. If you cross off one or two items, you’re an accomplished person. Lots of people ask more of themselves than they can reasonably accomplish. Don’t do that. Set accomplishable goals.
• Take time to relax.

This past weekend we took a few days to go camping with family and friends. We invited our two-year-old grandson to go along. There’s not a lot of things that can get me to relax as well as the presence of family and friends. Yes, I’ll have to admit I worked all the way down the interstate with occasional glances up to see the scenery my husband and son were pointing out and enjoying.

But once there, I turned off the laptop, saw I had NO reception to my cell phone, and gave in to a time of fun and laughter.  

How did it go?

I came away more relaxed. On the way home, I joined in with my husband and grandson as we worked to see who could find the next bridge or the next horse. My husband and I discussed and talked and laughed and snacked together all the way home. 

How to relax?

• Take a vacation. An hour, a day, a week. Whatever you can work into your budget--do it! Go to local amusements or parks or museums. (We took the grand boys to our local Airforce Museum--free, and good bonding time! And we‘ve also put down the deposit for our summer time at the beach!)
• Choose a hobby or something you’ve always wanted to do, and begin. Don’t put it off untill tomorrow for as the old saying goes, it never comes. Doesn’t matter whether you’re a master at it or not. If it gives you a sense of peace and satisfaction, it’s well worth it. (I’ve just recently picked up a new hobby: fairy gardens. Can’t wait to get started!)
• Spend time with those you love. Take a walk. Play with the kids or dogs. Do something really, really silly - ride down the slide, swing, skip, climb a tree. Take a day to pass out some extra hugs. (Feed the animals with the kids and watch their faces light up!)
• Soak in a bubble-filled tub. Read a book. Eat some chocolate or your favorite dessert. Splurge on a drink you love. (Hot tub time!)
• Invite a friend or your hubby out to dinner. Doesn’t have to be expensive. Relax and forget your problems. They’ll be there to solve later! (looking forward to hubby’s annual birthday dinner with his brother and his wife)
• Take time out for communion with God. Think. Pray. Study. It gives one a sense of strength and encouragement.

I’m sure you can find five minutes, thirty, or even an hour to squeeze in time to do something to pep your spirits! 

As the excerpt from my recently released novel says, Emma Jaine wanted to escape her problems, but realized she couldn’t. And we can’t always escape. But we can schedule a much-needed retreat for however long.

Jesus went up in the mountains to commune with God and become stronger. He and his disciples went out in the boat to get away for a bit. Don’t be afraid or ashamed to take needed time for yourself. For however long, for whenever, for whatever, do it! Your body -and your family and friends - will thank you!

Great advice, Carol. I needed to hear it.

Carol's New Book

Angry at being rejected for military service, Minister Tyrell Walker accepts the call to serve as a civilian spy within his own country. Across the river from Cincinnati, Ohio, a spy working for a foreign country is stealing secret plans for newly developed ammunition to be used in the war. According to his FBI cousin, this spy favors pink stationery giving strong indications that a woman is involved.

He’s instructed to obtain a room in the Rayner Boarding House run by the lovely, spunky red-haired Emma Jaine Rayner. Sparks of jealousy and love fly between them immediately even as they battle suspicions that one or the other is not on the up and up.

While Tyrell searches for the murdering spy who reaches even into the boarding home, Emma Jaine struggles with an annoying renter, a worried father (who could be involved in this spy thing), and two younger sisters who are very different but just as strong willed as she is.

As Tyrell works to keep his double life a secret and locate the traitor, he refuses to believe that Emma Jaine could be involved even when he sees a red-haired woman in the arms of another man. Could the handsome and svelte banker who’s also determined to win Emma Jaine’s hand for marriage, be the dangerous man he’s looking for? Is the trouble-making renter who hassles Emma Jaine serving as a flunky? Worse, is Papa Rayner so worried about his finances and keeping his girls in the style they’re used to, that he’ll stoop to espionage?

Will their love survive the danger and personal issues that arise to hinder the path of true love?


With Music in Their Heart
Kindle Link:   http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00OVFWA5S?pldnSite=1
Print Link:    http://www.amazon.com/Music-Their-Hearts-Spies-World/dp/1941622038/ref=sr_1_1_twi_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1415113865&sr=1-1&keywords=With+Music+in+Their+Hearts


You could win a FREE copy of Music in Their Heart. Just leave a comment and your email address and your name may be drawn. I'll announce the winner Wednesday, February 11th.

Our winner from last week is ... Ruth Ann Dell. Congratulations!

Grace and peace to you from God,

Bonnie Leon

Steadfast - Guest Blogger Sunni Jeffers

This Wednesday's guest blogger is Sunni Jeffers. Thank you for joining me in my little corner of the blogosphere. You have an incredible story to share.

Sunni Jeffers is the award-winning author of 15 books. Her life has taken many turns, from Navy wife and mother, to business owner and office manager, to rancher—all of this in partnership with her wonderful husband of 48 years. Now she writes as she and her husband travel the country most of the year, living in a motorhome. Visit her at http://www.sunnijeffers.com.


God Does Answer Prayer

I’m a Pollyanna sort of person. Not that life has always been rosy, but I tend to see the bright side of any situation. It’s nearly gotten us in trouble a few times. My husband is a bit of a risk-taker. I’m not. But if he says to me, “Do you think we could…?” my response is always, “Sure.” In truth, I’m not sure at all.

Back in the 1970s, after ten years in the Navy, my husband got out so we could move to Denver, Colorado. We had promised his parents we would come run the family business so they could retire. The business was only six years old. As neither of us had a business background, it was a leap of faith—or a jump into a pit without looking.

Our retail locksmith business sold and installed residential and commercial security. We had an expiring lease on a store in a strip mall, and several step-vans that did residential and commercial calls. When an old, small building and vacant lot came on the market across the street from our store, my husband said, “Do you suppose we could…?” and I said, “Sure!” Our banker was a lot like me and he said, “Sure, and we’ll lend you the money.” Oh boy, we were off and running.

We hired a contractor with a good recommendation (who ran out on us 2/3 way done, and he had not paid the subs, but that’s another story). Our landlord assured us that we could stay there on a month-to-month until our new shop was built. We tore into the old building, ripped it back to studs, and open three sides (leave one side and it’s a remodel). Then we started to build on a two-story addition. We’d just gotten started when the business owner next door came to tell us we had two weeks to get out, because she had leased our space.

We were devastated. Now what? It was the end of November. We had a dozen employees to pay, customers who counted on us, and Christmas was coming. We could not use the new store, as it was a construction zone and a hazard. We faced the impossible. We could keep our trucks operating out of the back of the unfinished building, but a big portion of our business relied on walk-in retail.
We prayed and asked our employees to pray. Some were believers, but others were not—yet. Then we pushed forward. Everyone worked overtime to move our merchandise and equipment into the basement of the old building and set up a makeshift work area against the one intact wall. We parked a step van in front of the new building, right next to a 2 Hour Parking sign. We put a locksmith and a space heater in the van, even while temperatures outside dipped into the teens, and ran a big extension cord from the shop to keep him operational. Another locksmith ran back and forth between the van and the shop to do work or deliver merchandise. Meanwhile, the other store employees worked days and evenings and weekends to get the old side of the building finished.
The local police departments and cities purchased locks and safes from us, and they would walk right by the 2 Hour Parking sign to do business in our van. For an entire month, until we were able to open the main part of the store, our only shop sales were done out of that van.

At the end of the month, I added up the sales totals. And re-added the totals. I couldn’t believe it. We had had one of our best months ever! Shop morale was at an all-time high. We’d survived and thrived during the impossible. And everyone—even our non-believers—gave credit to God. There was no other explanation. God heard our prayers and answered, working in and through us to accomplish the impossible.

This was not my first experience, nor my last of God intervening in my life and answering prayers. Some were painful situations or hard lessons that have shaped my character, deepened my faith, and given me life experiences that fill pages and characters in my books. This one was amazing and affirming.

Have you experienced something in your life that you know was God answering a prayer? I’d love to hear about it.

Sunni is offering a free copy of her new book!

Spiritual forces are at work to destroy mankind…

Dr Ellen Larson has heard myths of fallen angels, but she has no idea they exist—or that they’re after her. She has enough on her mind--her research and her own strange DNA, which she’s kept secret since she discovered a mutation in medical school that’s never been seen before.

Then the impossible happens. Two patients admitted to the University Medical Center—Rafe Zacharias and Homer Wilton--have the same genetic mutation! Without transfusions, the men will die. Ellen can’t withhold what may be their only hope: her blood. She has no choice…

Her secret must come out.

Unseen, a battle rages around them. A battle to bring an ancient curse to life. Ellen, Rafe and Homer are pawns in a war mankind can't afford to lose...

This sounds so good! I can't wait to read it!

If you'd like a chance to win a copy of this book just leave a comment and your email address. I love Sunni's question at the end of her story. Answered prayer anyone?

Last week's winner is Patti Iverson! Congratulations!

Grace and peace to you,

Bonnie

Steadfast - Guest Blogger Camille Eide

It's guest blogger Wednesday! And I have a treat for you! Camille Eide is  my guest. And she's giving away a copy of her debut novel, Like There's No Tomorrow. 

More about that later. First let's meet Camille.

Camille Eide writes heart-tugging tales of love, faith, and family. She lives in Oregon with her husband and is a mom, grammy, church office manager, bass guitarist, and a fan of muscle cars, tender romance, and Peanut M&Ms.







Camille’s Website: www.camilleeide.com
FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Camille-Eide-Author/134301859999367
Twitter: www.twitter.com/CamilleEide
Email: Camille@camilleeide.com for interview questions or other info
Book Trailer: http://youtu.be/ctXKoiwRvxY


Thoughts from Camille:

“Oh, that I had the wings of a dove!

I would fly away and be at rest.

I would flee far away

and stay in the desert;

I would hurry to my place of shelter,

far from the tempest and storm.”

Psalm 55:6-8

I have heard people say, “If I could just get over this health issue,” or “If only I had more money.” If only I had less stress, more help, less pain, more support, etc, etc.

Have you ever been there?

If only . . .

If I could just . . .

Behind these words is a cry for relief. Not only relief from difficult circumstances, but also from fear and hopelessness. What if I become so sick or anxious or overwhelmed or so deeply in debt that I can’t function? What if my circumstances never change? What if it gets worse?

Thanks to our Adamic inheritance, we live in a fallen world, full of sin, disease, dysfunction, injustice, abuse, brokenness—the list is endless. You may be dealing with something that could wreak more damage than a hurricane. Whether from external circumstances or inner struggles, the weight of constant suffering can be unbearable and make us hopeless for a way out, no end in sight. No hope for relief.

My pastor suffers terrible migraines. These are horribly painful to the point of making him physically sick. He can’t think or do anything but lie still in silent darkness. With a family and a loaded plate of pastoral responsibilities, he doesn’t have time to be sick, and yet he somehow presses on, with the diligence of a faithful, caring shepherd. He asks God for healing and asks others to pray, and yet the headaches continue. When a migraine strikes on a Sunday, we’ve seen God answer prayer many times by giving him enough strength and relief to deliver his sermon. What amazes me is that in spite of this suffering, this man is absolutely unwavering in his faith in Christ. His life is an inspiring example of steadfast confidence in and obedience to God. The fact that God has not yet healed him doesn’t stop him from serving the Lord with his whole heart, with truth and grace, every minute of every day.

He continues to ask God for healing. And we should keep asking God to relieve us and others of suffering. I know he can. And many times, he does. But what if immediate relief isn’t part of his plan for us right now? What if God has his reasons for our weathering a storm (or an entire hurricane season) instead of rescuing us from it?

The Apostle Paul talked about his “thorn in the flesh.” I think Paul came to terms with the fact that relief from this trial would not be soon coming. I also think that at some point, he became grateful for the thorn, because it drove him closer Jesus.

How does being close to Jesus help when we face difficult circumstances?

But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord,
whose confidence is in him.
They will be like a tree planted by the water
that sends out its roots by the stream.
It does not fear when heat comes;
its leaves are always green.
It has no worries in a year of drought
and never fails to bear fruit.

Jeremiah 17:7-8

So I’ll never fail to bear fruit. Awesome. But what good is a bunch of fruit when I’m suffering?

When we turn our lives over to Christ, his Spirit moves in and begins the work of making us more like him. God’s word and presence feed, sustain, and transform us. This transforming work is evident by spiritual “fruit” such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Not a pretense worn outwardly like a “goody-hoody,” but a God-kind of gentleness and peace that springs from the center of our soul where God, the Maker of the universe, lives and works in and through us. This fruit not only lets others see God in us, it’s presence in our lives reminds and assures us of his power and love. This assurance comes from experiencing God in a way that teaches us we can trust in his goodness, his provision, and his constant faithfulness.

If storms feel endless and unbearable, maybe we need to stretch our roots deeper into God’s stream. When we make him our daily Source, nothing can destroy us. No drought, famine, wildfire, (debt, depression, pain, cancer) can steal our love, joy and peace when we are nourished by The Stream.

Yes, storms may shred our bark, and our fruit might be knocked off and crushed, but we will never wither. We might be battered for a season, but God will be our strength and sustenance. If he is allowing us to go through difficulty, he will provide what we need. And he won’t let us weather a storm alone! He is a “friend who sticks closer than a brother” and will stay beside us all the way to the other side, whatever that may be. He will never leave or forsake us! We will sprout new leaves and blossom again. What tremendous hope we have!

Are you in a season of suffering? Can you share a time when circumstances felt too unbearable? Have you “reached your roots” into the stream of God’s daily provision and strength?

======================
Camille’s new contemporary novel, Like There’s No Tomorrow, (ow.ly/BKbm9) released Sept 30, 2014 from Ashberry Lane Publishing (www.ashberrylane.com). It’s a mildly amusing yet tender love story about two young, single caretakers, two quirky old Scottish sisters bent on reuniting, and too many agendas. It’s a love story with a tug-o-war over a daft old woman, family drama, faith testing, and the gift of each new day.

I love this story. You will too.

And you have a chance to win a free copy. All you need to do is leave a comment. Make sure to include your email address so we can contact you.

Book Links:
Kindle: ow.ly/BabHj
Paperback: ow.ly/BKbm9
Barnes & Noble: http://ow.ly/C3il1
Kobo: http://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/like-there-s-no-tomorrow-1
iTunes: http://ow.ly/C3ffA
Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/477970
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23173345-like-there-s-no-tomorrow

Camille blogs about God’s grace at Along the Banks
http://camilleeide.wordpress.com/


We have a piece of business from last week. The winner of Angela Strong's book, The Snowball Fight Professional.

And the winner is ...

Amy Davidson.

Congratulations!

Grace and peace to you from God,

Bonnie

Steadfast - Guest Blogger Allie Pleiter

Make sure to read to the bottom for a chance to win a FREE Book!

Life if filled with treasure, not just the monetary kind, but that which builds our spirits and nourishes our lives. Allie Pleiter, my guest blogger, has treasure to share. Please read on and become richer.

An avid knitter, BBC Television geek and French macaron enthusiast, Allie Pleiter writes both fiction and non-fiction.  The enthusiastic but slightly untidy mother of two, Allie spends her days writing books, buying yarn, and finding new ways to avoid housework.  

Allie hails from Connecticut, moved to the Midwest to attend Northwestern University, and currently lives outside Chicago, Illinois.  The “dare from a friend” to begin writing has produced two parenting books, twenty-two novels, and various national speaking engagements on faith, women’s issues, and writing.  

Visit her website at http://www.alliepleiter.com or her knitting blog at http://www.DestiKNITions.blogspot.com



Riches from Allie:

During my son’s four-year bout with multiple illnesses, I learned there are two types of adversity:  One is the full-scale calamity where you must surrender to your circumstances and exist in survival mode.  Those times offer lessons in grace, dependence, humility, and the extraordinary provision of our Lord.The other kind of adversity is a slow and weary trial that goes on for months, where you battle an eroding brand of normal. This trial must be fought by excavating blessings from amid the constant strain.  For that I used my “Fort of Fours.”

  Each morning I fought hard (some days really hard) to list four blessings.  Simple things like a warm cup of coffee, a kind hospital nurse, positive test results, anything that could teach my spirit to find the good even on a bad day.  Then, I allowed myself to list four prayers for only the coming 24 hours—even if that meant one of those prayers was not to freak out about something that could not be solved in 24 hours.  I went back each morning and put a check mark next to each prayer from the previous day that had been answered.  I collected a lot of check marks.

These eight items became my daily spiritual vitamins.  It allowed me to keep going, to carry a lightened workload, and to see my son through to his healing.  He’s fine now, but I still practice this every morning, and probably won’t ever stop.


These survival techniques are just what I need. Thank you, Allie.

Allie is offering a FREE BOOK to one of you. All you need to do to be included in the drawing is leave a comment. Make sure to include you email address so we can contact the winner. 

This sounds like a fun read. And just in time for Christmas.

Charlotte Taylor isn't good at playing it safe. Reeling from the sudden loss of her job and her beloved grandmother, Charlotte knows buying a dilapidated cottage in Gordon Falls isn't exactly practical. Especially since she just hired the one man who may love the property more than she does to help renovate it. Volunteer firefighter and part-time contractor Jesse Sykes can't stay mad at Charlotte for very long. Though she snatched up the home he'd planned on purchasing, Charlotte's dreams are big enough for both of them…if only she'd let him in. Charlotte promised she'd never fall for a first responder, but is it already too late?


I'll announce the winner of Saved by the Fireman next Wednesday.

Grace and peace to you from God,

Bonnie

Steadfast - Guest Bloggrer, Hannah Alexander

Wednesday means another book giveaway and another guest blogger.

Welcome Hannah Alexander. Thank you for being my guest.

 

Hannah Alexander is the pen name of an award-winning husband and wife writing team with over thirty published romantic medical suspense novels.

http://www.hannahalexander.com

When to press on and when to surrender is one of the toughest decisions we can make. But God is faithful to show us the way.

Hannah knows this well. Here is her story.


When I Quit

My writing career was doing well as I drove to my mother’s country house one day to check on her. I had just completed the first novel in a new series of trade paperbacks, and I was excited about it. I felt it was one of the best I’d written, and was planning the next in the series. Unfortunately, I had no idea how I was going to complete the other two novels.

Mom’s health was getting worse as she was battling breast cancer and knee surgery. Each time she went under general anesthesia it worsened her dementia.

I didn’t know how much longer I could leave her home alone, but she was one independent woman, determined to make her own way, with no idea the trouble she was in—or the trouble I was facing with her. Her physician recommended assisted living, and I toured the local facilities. I couldn't do it.

I was halfway to Mom’s one day when I received a phone call from my agent to inform me that the trade line I was writing for had been discontinued. I didn't have to bother finishing the series. The book I was so thrilled about was being orphaned, which meant sales would tank.

At the time I could only feel relief. I was gratified to learn that I wouldn't be forced to return the advance I’d received for signing the contract, and that allowed me to care for Mom without the distraction of yet another deadline—often the bane of every writer’s life. The writing stress, along with my income, was all taken away in one short call.

But Mom developed colon cancer. My caretaking days hit like a flash, and we brought Mom home to live with us for the last six months of her life.

Not long after she moved in I was asked to write a series of shorter novels with the same publisher that had discontinued my trade novels. I decided that with a less strenuous deadline I could help Mom and continue my writing career—at least keep my name out there.

It didn't work. Mom stayed up nights, wandering the house with sundowner's syndrome, and I had to follow her. I couldn't function enough to cook dinner, much less write. So I called my editor.

“Joan, my mother is on hospice care. I have no idea when I’ll be able to complete this novel.” I didn't tell her I wasn't sure if I’d ever write again. I felt as if my heart was being ripped to shreds as my mother failed before my eyes.

“You just worry about your mother,” Joan said. “I’m taking your book from its slot, so you don’t have a deadline.”

That was when I began to wonder if it was time to stop writing completely. But how could I stop? I’d been a writer for so many years. And yet, once a writer pauses, the readers begin to forget her. My career might be over. Life was pressing me down to the point I could barely breathe.

I continued to attempt to work on my book from time to time, but it was such a mess I couldn’t make sense of it. My mother’s mind wasn't the only one that had left us. Mind had, too.

My mother passed away in February. In August of that year, as I tried to force my way out of a state of profound grieving, I managed to complete my novel. The poor editor who had to take that mess of a book from an author who had always been known for clean copy, and turn it into something readable? She was an angel.

I get it now when people talk about the struggles of caretakers. I’m amazed by those who spend years caring for their loved ones.

I’m writing regularly again, but my genre has changed slightly. I write more romantic medical drama, less romantic suspense. Life changes, and we metamorphose whether we want to or not. Maybe my career isn't over yet. If it is, that decision is with God. And that’s the best place for it to be.

Hannah is giving away a copy of her brand new book

Dandelion Moon

In Book 2 of the Hallowed Halls series, when Dr. Myra Maxwell finds herself stumbling through the darkness of a cemetery on a cold winter night, she realizes she doesn't recognize a thing, and doesn't recall how she arrived here. As Christmas fireworks begin, they frighten her. She doesn't know who she is, where she is, or why she's here. She diagnoses herself as a patient in a fugue state, most likely from some horrible experience her mind is working to force her to forget. But why?

Weston Cline is frantic about the woman he loves. She left her psychiatry clinic in the middle of the day on Christmas Eve, and he's heard nothing from her since. When he makes a call to her hometown of Juliet, Missouri, he catches a word or two that convinces him she's retreated to the place she feels safest, and he is determined to drive there tonight and protect her. Unfortunately, her friends, Drs. Joy Gilbert and Zachary Travis are determined to keep Weston away from Myra. He's shown his true colors in outrageous ways in the past year, and they don't want to risk her emotional well-being with his presence. Too bad, because he's going anyway, and he will stand firm with her.

Set at Christmas, Dandelion Moon might well give holiday celebrants a 

chance to root for the true meaning of Christmas to show itself at least 

one more time, and to find that miracles really do happen.

Hannah, this sounds fabulous. I can't wait to read it.

One lucky person will win a copy of this book.

For a chance to win leave a comment

And don't forget to include your email address.

LAST WEEK'S WINNER 

IS

Katrina Epperson!

Grace and peace to you from God,

Bonnie