Books & Writing - Welcome Paula Mowery

It's a pleasure to have Paula Mowery as my guest today on Books & Writing. Welcome Paula.

Paula is a pastor's wife and former homeschool Mom. She has always been an avid reader of Christian fiction. She began writing first in the nonfiction genre, creating three Bible studies, which were self-published. However, she crafted fiction stories which she shared with friends and family. 

When one of her readers encouraged her to pursue publication, she joined American Christian Fiction Writers, where she learned more about the world of fiction. Her debut work The Blessing Seer is a novella published by Harbourlight, a division of Pelican Book Group. Paula is also an acquiring editor for Prism Book Group. 


It's nearly August - summer is winding down. Can you tell us what your favorite summer memory is?

I believe we made a summer memory this May when we traveled to Pensacola, Florida to see my daughter graduate with her homeschool class. We always said if we survived 12 years of school together, we would have to be involved in the graduation ceremonies. She graduated from ABeka Academy with 372 others from 48 of the states and 5 other countries. Her father and I joked that she would have to deal with the fact that her parents were on her Senior trip since we stayed at the beach that next week after the graduation. I will never forget the young woman I saw march across that stage. I was a proud mama.

Beautiful memory, indeed.


Paula, can you sum up your homeschooling experience in one sentence? And would you do it again?

I will forever be grateful that God allowed me to stay home to educate my child and raise her in His ways. Though it wasn't always easy, I would do it all again, seeing the person God has formed her to become.


You've written a number of articles, Bible studies and two novellas. Can you share a little about how you started your writing journey?

Before homeschooling my own daughter, I taught English in public school. I tried to set a good example by reading and writing in front of my students. I've always been an avid reader of Christian fiction since my mother began to bring home books from her job at a Christian bookstore. Mom also brought home journals which I would fill with stories and poems. God inspired me to write Bible studies and teach them at churches where my husband served as pastor. I always had that "secret" notebook where I was writing fiction. 

One day I ventured to share a novel with a friend who encouraged me to look into publishing. I joined ACFW and learned what writing for God and publishing was all about. Several authors suggested starting small, so I wrote some magazine articles, having two accepted by a national magazine. A couple of years ago, I laid out my fleece, asking God to give me a sign as to whether publishing was on the horizon for me. He answered and led me to Pelican Book Group and the publication of The Blessing Seer.

My writing journey has been a process of listening to God's direction and learning all I can about how to write.


You're not only a writer but an acquisitions editor as well. What is it like to wear both hats?

Yep, God really dropped the editor position right in my lap! One thing I've learned as an editor, I can see how to polish another manuscript, but with my own work I seem blinded. I joke that God has given me the editor position to feed that English teacher in me. But, don't worry, I don't "bleed" on the manuscripts. It is so exciting to help an aspiring writer achieve their dream of publication.

My only struggle is to balance my time between writing and editing. But the timing works out well. I no longer will be educating my daughter. She's moving on to college. I shouldn't be surprised how it all fell into place - God's timing is perfect.

Even after all my years of walking with God, I continue to be amazed at His timing. 

You have a sequel to your first novella, The Blessing Seer. The new book is called Be the Blessing. 

What a beautiful cover. Can you tell us a little about how you came up with the idea for this series of books?

The Blessing Seer came from a sermon illustration. As I went to bed one night, I was mulling over a story about a man who goes to heaven and sees a warehouse filled with unopened gifts. An angel tells him that those are all of the blessings God wants to give to people, but they haven't asked for. 

I  thought about how we receive blessings - some just given from God and others we receive only after obeying a directive. Then, I thought about how many blessings I must miss out on because I either don't ask or don't obey.

I had no sooner lay down and turned out the lamp, than God downloaded the complete outline for The Blessing Seer into my mind. I jumped back up and wrote it down as fast as my hands could write. After it was contracted and the edits had begun, my editor asked if I thought there would be a sequel. Well . . . my mind started cranking and the sequel was born. God let me know that the main character's story wasn't over. he still had plenty to say and teach me. Be the Blessing will be released soon.

I look forward to hearing more about Be the Blessing.


What's next? Are you working on a new project?

I wrote a story to be included in an anthology with three other authors. Brave New Century will be published through Prism Book Group. It is a collection of four historical romance stories. My story, Forgiven, is based on my paternal grandparents.

Also, I am in the midst of revising a story called The Prayer Shawl, which will be paired with another story called A Lamp Unto My Feet. These are both contemporary romance in which a grandmother had a godly influence.

I am also revising another romance called Inheritance per request of my editor.

You are staying busy. I'll be watching for upcoming books.

How can people contact you on the web?

Please connect with me on my blog (you can subscribe through your email) - www.paulamowery.blogspot.com and on my new author Facebook page found under pages and my name, Paula Mowery - please "Like" me there. 

You can also find me on the Prism submissions page -   www.prismbookgroup.com.

You can read my columns at  www.christianonlinemagazine.com.

·         

·       

·       

·         

·       

·      

·         

Quiet Moments With God - Do You Trust Me?

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     

I've been feeling melancholy today. I learned this week that someone I trust and love and very much admire in the faith has a starkly different perspective on eternal security than I do.

 I believe God has laid out a clear path to understanding whether or not our salvation is secure. In John He tells us several times that all we must do to be saved is to believe in the Son of God. Ephesians four reminds us that believers are sealed for all time.

When we believe we become brand new creations through Christ. We are regenerated and adopted as God's own children. And though a child may become disappointed, even angry with a parent they will always be His child. There are no give-backs. If one of my own children became so angry or disappointed in me that they felt they actually hated me and told me they would never have anything more to do with me, they would still be my child. We are bonded by blood, just as we are bonded with Christ by His blood. I would be heartbroken, but I would still be the mother of that child because the bond of blood cannot be broken.

Since my conversation with my Christian brother, I've spent many hours studying applicable scriptures. And I've been reassured that my salvation is secure. Though, I may lose heavenly rewards I will never lose my place in eternity with  my Father. Praise Him for his mercy!

So, what now? I've prayed. My husband has prayed. We wait.

Our Heavenly Father has whispered, "Seek me. Trust me - Do you trust me?"

"Yes! We trust you."

"All right then. This path is not too difficult for you. Remain in me and see what work I have for you to do."

We will do our best to follow God and His will for us. Each day, each step is about what He wants, not just for us but also from us. We ask for His wisdom about when to speak and when to be silent. And when it is time to speak, we seek guidance from the Holy Spirit in what we should and should not say.

Christians are never going to agree on all things. We're just people and that's okay. But, there are some lines we cannot cross. Those things that are stronger than personal convictions, the truths that come straight from God's Word. Those we must stand on. And we will stand . . . though with gentleness and in love.

Grace and peace to you from God,

Bonnie

Books & Writing - Top Ten Favorite Books

If I wasn't working as a writer I'd want to work in a book store or a library. I love books! All kinds of books. 

They take me places I've never been - open my mind to new ideas - draw me closer to God - give me courage to do more than I ever thought possible. The amazing thing is that I can do all that without leaving the safe haven of my comfy chair. I get to live out adventures, be carried along where I experience new times and places, and get to know the most interesting people. Sometimes, I even get to fall in love all over again. And there are books that renew my heart and mind, when I am given courage and hope.

I can't imagine a world without books. There was time when there was no written word and yet stories were handed down from generation to generation in the form of music, dance and the spoken word. I treasure story tellers.

My favorite genre is Women's Fiction and Historical Fiction, but it's always good to step out of one's typical read and try something new from time to time. I love books for all kinds of reasons. Sometimes it's a powerful writing voice. It can be the story or the characters I fall in love with. I don't fully comprehend the mystery of what clicks in my mind and heart about a book, but I do know that those I love most captivate me and they have characters I care about, people I cry and cheer with.

I'm excited about stories - can you tell? 

I've listed my top ten all-time favorites. Making these choices was excruciatingly difficult. I love so many. When I decided to list only ten that meant leaving off  many books I absolutely love, but there just isn't room to list them all. So, here are my top ten picks . . . at least for today.

I hedged a little. There are eleven books on this page. The Shape of Mercy is at the top.  :-)
  
If you haven't read some of these books yet you might want to try them. I'd love to know what your favorites are. Please share with the rest of us.

I hope you find a way to fill your life with great stories.

Grace and peace to you from God,

Bonnie

Quiet Moments With God - Grace

This morning began with outrage. I was furious - ready to pounce and make sure that a certain somebody knew how outraged I was. And then I read a beautiful devotion, given to me from a friend, but it's really from God. I know it's from Him because it was placed in front of my eyes at just the right moment and so gently reminded me of  God's  . . .

Grace.

Grace was given by God. I do not deserve it. He should be outraged with me. He could have pounced. He did not. He could have banished me to an eternity without Him. He did not. 

Instead he offered grace. 

"God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can't take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it. For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago."

Ephesians 2:8 - 10

Thank you Father for your mercy and love. Thank you for making me brand new. I don't deserve it. 


Grace and peace to you from God,

Bonnie

I recommend this link to any and all  - http://www.aholyexperience.com/2013/07/a-letter-to-kate-7-way-to-labor-deliver-your-best-life/

The Journey - Elderly Parents

My mother is eighty-eight years old and lives nearby in an assisted living home. A year and a half ago, after open heart surgery followed by a severe infection and the loss of her husband, Mom moved from the state of Washington to Roseburg, Oregon so she could be close to me and her grandchildren. She settled into an apartment in an assisted living center, and I was thrown into a whole new way of living. Our lives became intertwined.

We've been sharing life ever since, some of it has been sorrowful and some full of joy. I'm grateful for every day.

In the beginning Mom was grieving deeply over the loss of her husband, home and her health. Grief is still close at hand, but she has grown accustomed to her new home, even though she reminds me regularly it's really not home. She made friends and became active in her small community. She loves playing bingo and makes trips to local attractions and joins others who live in the center on drives to enjoy the beauty of Southern Oregon.

Mom is blessed, even though each day is a challenge. It's not easy to be old when your body and mind are giving out. And it's not easy being the daughter either. My heart breaks when I see her suffer, but the heartache doesn't strip away any of my gratitude about our being together. We relive memories, share our favorite books and movies and we celebrate holidays and anniversaries together. Whenever possible we get out and enjoy the wonder of nature.

The tough stuff - her health - is  something we also share. So much of our time is spent at doctor's offices and even the hospital from time to time. Yesterday she had a doctor's visit that was followed by a hospital visit. She's not feeling well, but she's still full of love and gratitude that spills over onto me. Yesterday while helping a technician with Mom's X-rays, the tech thanked me. I was close to tears as I looked at my precious mother trying to do all that was asked of her while coping with pain. I answered  the tech with, "Well, that's my mama." Mom's reply - "That's my daughter."

Her words were warm with love and appreciation. I can't count how many times she's told me how much she loves me and is thankful for me. When we look at each other, even when we're weary, we see how strong our love is for the other. Love is powerful. It is healing. And it makes life beautiful.

These days, like winter, can be sharp and cold, but I am grateful for every one, even those days spent in the hospital. My mother is a gift to her family, and God knew how much we needed her. She needs us too. God's design of family was pure genius - well He is God after all.

If the years are winding down for you or someone you love, make the most of every single day. Spend time together, even if it has to happen long distance. The time will come when earthly days end and we won't have the opportunity for another hug or an "I love you." At least not until heaven..

Don't  put off the opportunities for another day. You may not have any more.

Grace and peace to you from God,

Bonnie

Quiet Moments With God - In The Moment

This morning I glanced through my journal and discovered an entry from back in March. At that time, I was having a terrible flare up with my back and had poured my frustrations and anxieties onto the page. Part of what I'd written was about my uncertainty over the future and what it held for me, even though I wasn't there yet.

It is true, that in recent years my chronic pain has intensified. Most days I try not to go to the place of what if's, but sometimes they creep in and I end up in the wrong place - a state of worry over a time in the future, which I haven't reached yet.

The truth is there is almost always something we can worry about - How will we manage our finances - the illness of a loved one - finding time to complete a list of "must do's", and on it goes. We even waste time worrying about things that can't be changed and lots of stuff that just might happen. When I shine a light on all of that I wonder, "Why do I do this?"

This morning while reading God's Word and praying, God gently reminded me, once more, that all that worry isn't pleasing to Him, plus it keeps me from relishing the present moment that He's given me.  Each minute spent anxiously trying to figure out what is to come means I've missed the moment I'm in - the right now of living. And each of those moments are here and then gone, moments we cannot reclaim. 

Each is precious. 

What would our life look like if we refused to allow anxiety about our future rip into us and instead embraced the right now's and praised God for every one of them? We might enjoy all those extra glorious moments. This morning while praying I felt God's presence - powerful and full of grace. I wasn't thinking about tomorrow or the next day, only Him. With it came wonder and joy. 

Matthew speaks about worry in Matthew 6:25 - 27. He says, That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life - whether you have enough food and drink, or enough clothes to wear. Isn't life more than food, and your body more than clothing? Look at the birds. They don't plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren't you far more valuable to him than they are? Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?

I had to stop at the last line. The answer, of course is no. 

Let's try living just one day in the moment. I mean really try. Every time our mind wanders away from enjoying  the right now of living drag it back and think of the present circumstance. Even if it's not so pretty, at least it is just for the moment. 

Let me know if you try this. What did you discover? Wouldn't it be amazing if we could live every day like that?

Grace and peace to you from God,

Bonnie

The Journey - Scary Roads

Journeys oftentimes take us on scary roads (literally). I've always been afraid when driving narrow, winding cliff roads. 

Even when I was a kid, I'd get scared. We used to travel from Western Washington to Eastern Washington to see family. If the snow had melted enough we'd take a high mountain pass over the Cascade Mountains called Chinook Pass. It would scare the pants off me.

My mother loved that drive. She was fearless. She'd gaze out the window at mountains blanketed by deep-green forests with meadows buried in snow and admire the view. All the while, unaffected by the cliff that fell thousands of feet below us at the edge of the road. She'd say, "Oh Roy (that's my dad and he was driving), look at that." Inside I'd be screaming, "Don't look! Keep your eyes on the road!" I'd be gripping the edge of the seat so tightly my knuckles would be white.

My family used to have way too much fun at my expense. I was the only one terrified of cliff roads. And it seemed that every time I turned around we'd be going somewhere that called on me to be brave. Each September we'd travel high into the mountains to pick huckleberries. It required driving a road very similar to the one in the photo above. In most places the road was too narrow for two cars to pass. I remember on several occasions that my father had to back down to make room for another driver coming from the opposite direction. I really didn't like that.

I loved our time up there in the mountains. We'd pick berries and picnic. It was always a special family time. But the road terrified me.

I've traveled lots of scary roads while gripping the steering wheel and trying not to look at the cliff at the edge of my tires. In fact, I live on a road that's kind of like that. My first trip up I told my husband, "I can never drive this road." When we decided to buy the property Greg said glibly, "Don't worry. You'll be fine."

I didn't believe him, but as it turned out he was right. I've had a few scary moments in the ice and snow, but mostly  I love the road. It has spectacular views and every time I drive up or down I get to look at them. I hate to think of how many amazing experiences I'd have missed if I'd been too afraid to drive the road and didn't buy the property.

Life's journey is full of scary roads, literally and figuratively. 

Even when we're afraid, we need to drive them. They often lead us to the most amazing places where we can enjoy spectacular views.

Have you had scary road experiences? I'd love to know about the scariest road you've ever been on. Please share.

Enjoy the journey,

Bonnie

Books & Writing: Secrets to a Happy Life

I just read 
Secrets to a Happy Life
and I love it!

Before I talk about the book, I'd like to introduce the author, Bill Giovannetti. 

 

He says, "If we could share lattes at Starbucks, I'd introduce myself with a good amount of randomness."

And so he does.

• I'm into woodworking (I made my wife a grandfather clock, and I'm still banking on that leverage).
• Bass fishing calls out to me.
• Good Italian food - especially Chicago pizza - is my love language.
• My wife, Margi, is a bundle of living awesomeness. She's an attorney and teaches business law classes at Simpson University.
• I have two kids that blow my mind with brilliance, beauty, sweetness and fun.
• God is better to me than I deserve.
• I'm honored to teach at W.W. Tozer Theological Seminary and Simpson University. I  think I'm an easy grader.
• My first love is pastoring, and I am blessed beyond words to lead the incredible people called Neighborhood Church of Redding.
• We're home schoolers, mainly because I work on Saturdays and Sundays (church-wise), and our family needed to see me once in a while. By we, I mean my wife, who does an unspeakably excellent job of teaching our munchkins.
• When I first became a pastor, my first office was the birthplace of AWANA.

I've never met Bill, but making that happen is now officially included on my Bucket List. We share the same literary agency, Books & Such, so I think the meeting is within reach.

Now, about his book, Secrets to a Happy Life. When I finished reading I had to share. It is just so good.

About the book:

Can you really be happy in ANY situation?

YES!

Contrary to pupular belief, happy people aren't born happy. And they face difficulties as we all do. But they have discovered something the rest of us can learn - how to tap into a deep happiness that flows no matter the circumstance.

     Filled with practical advice and biblical wisdom, Secrets to a Happy Life shows how true satisfaction is anchored to the soul, safe from the disappointments and stresses at the surface of life. Drawing lessons from the remarkable life of Joseph, who was sold into slavery at a young age and endured much hardship, you will discover how to:

• See all the ways God is working for your joy.
• Get beyond the negative emotions that hold you back.
• Find rest in God's goodness and control.
• Create - and tap into - your own deep well of happiness.

Life will always have its ups and downs, but with the life-changing secrets in this book, you can amplify and sustain the joy already inside you.

My thoughts:  The minute I opened the pages of this book I knew it was special because I scrambled to find a pen so I could underline Bill's thoughts. I underlined, bracketed and drew circles around the life-changing words on the pages - words that spoke to my heart. I knew I'd be back to look at them again.

As I read, the Holy Spirit spoke to me. He used this book to shout out principles I already know, but badly needed to be reminded of.

Bill has done a quality job. He writes with passion, using humor, theology, creativity and down to earth talk to help readers grab hold of God's truth. He has designed us to be happy and to find joy in life. It is His gift to us. Happiness is for everyone, no matter the circumstances.

My husband and I are reading the book together and we will very likely lead a small group in the fall, using Secrets to a Happy Life as a tool. Bill includes questions at the end of each chapter that are thought provoking and great discussion starters. I can't wait to introduce it to people I love.

And I hope each person reading this will go out and get a copy today. Don't put it up on the shelf, thinking that one day you'll get to it. Read it. It can change your life.

Thank you Bill. Your hard work is a blessing to me.

Bill is available online at:

http://www.Bill Giovannetti.com

http://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti?fref=ts

And for more resources for this book go to http://www.secrettoahappylife.org.

The Journey - Celebrations

Celebrations are part of our journey together. They can be symbolic of something great or  meaningful or simply a fun activity. I like all kinds.

With the Fourth of July celebrations winding down I've been thinking about the family gatherings and special activities taking place across our nation. Summer get-togethers are especially fun because we usually do something outdoors - picnics, swimming, boating or playing games. And summertime foods are especially delicious.

For my family, the Fourth is usually kind of low key, although some years we've taken part in community celebrations, working alongside friends and family to reach out and celebrate our country's birthday with crowds of people. And I especially love Fourth of July parades. Most often, though, with us it's just family. We kind of hang out around home and enjoy one another's company. The younger folks play games while us "old" folks laugh and cheer them on. And there is always something interesting to talk about, especially when my brother Bruce is here (like this year). He's always full of Alaskan tales.

We have good food, with watermelon being a must have. Fireworks of some kind always top off the day. I love laying under a dark sky and watching a huge display of colors and sounds, but this year we decided to purchase our own and wait until the sun set to enjoy a  more conservative display right in our own front yard while the kids cheered and clapped. The littlest in our clan, Kadin, thought they were pretty cool. Next year he'll probably get to run around the yard with his own sparklers. This year he just watched wide eyed and smiling.

I have some warm and wonderful memories of past Fourths, spent with friends and family. One time, I was sick and my father wrapped me up in a blanket and carried me to a get together at our neighbors so I wouldn't miss out. I think it was one of my favorite Fourths ever because my dad made me feel special and loved by making sure I could be there. And then there was the time when me and my family attended a special fireworks display in our community. One of the fireworks fell back into the launching pad and set off all the fireworks at the same time. Everyone was diving behind cars to keep from getting hit by a flying fireball. I was little and don't remember, but I can imagine what it was like.

Do you have special Fourth of July memories? What did you do this year?

I  hope you all had a great time and didn't forget how blessed we are to live in the USA.

Quiet Moments With God - Tapestry of Life

A friend of ours died yesterday. Each time there is a death I think of life. Memories of good times and bad fill my mind. But inevitably my thoughts wander to my own life. Am I wasting the days I've been given or have I  made the most of them? 

The day we draw our first breath a clock begins ticking and continues until we draw our last.  Each day is designed and given by God. They are His gift to us. Gifts are meant to be cherished and used, not set high on a shelf where they are forgotten. 

Days slip by - weeks - months - years. When we look back what do we see? Have we reached out to others? Have we loved well? Have we enjoyed the gifts given and shared them with others? What about the time we've spent with friends and loved ones? Did we sing songs together - tell stories or play games? Have we enjoyed a good book or a good meal with someone we care about? Did we hold someone's hand during a hard time or when we prayed together or rejoiced together? Have we cherished this precious place called earth? Have we prepared for heaven and told others that heaven waits for them too? Did we tell people about Jesus? 

What have we done with our days?

There are only so many to live. They are numbered, a number known only by God. They may seem endless, but that is a deception. For one day we are here and then, like a mist, we are gone. When our day comes to say farewell will we be at rest, knowing we've cherished the moments? Or will we anguish over a life squandered? 

Each day is filled with promise. Treasure them. 

God walks alongside us. He knows the beginning and the end. And in the Master's hands our lives become a tapestry woven with brilliant reds, deep blues and vibrant greens that shimmer with the beauty of life.

Grace and peace to you from God,

Bonnie 

The Journey - Waiting & Mercy

In my post on Wednesday I asked, what is your hardest wait. I received numerous responses from people who had truly lived through some very painful circumstances. It got me to thinking about one of my most difficult waits. I'd like to share that story with you.

     My four-year-old daughter, Kristi, snuggled close while I read Whinny the Pooh to her. All of a sudden, she covered the page with her hand and looked at me. I brushed a soft, blonde curl off her face. "What is it, Kristi?"
     "Mommy, I had a dream." She looked down at her hands. "It was a long, long time ago. In my dream I was dying. I was so scared."
     My throat tightened and memories of a frantic trip to the hospital three and a half years before filled my thoughts. I knew this was not a dream, but a little girl's memory.

     That day had started out like any other, but by late afternoon, my eight-month-old's early morning crankiness had shifted to a full-fledged tirade. Although she was running a fever I was convinced it was nothing more than teething and lay her down for a nap.
     A short forty-five minutes later, Kristi's moaning and whimpering drew me to her crib. She thrashed at the bedding. I picked her up and knew right away that she was very sick. Heat radiated through her clothing and her breathing was shallow and rapid. I took her temperature - 105 degrees! 
     "Lord, help us," I prayed as I called my husband at work. When he answered, I choked back a sob. "Greg, we've got to get Kristi to the hospital! She's really sick!"
     I'd never felt such fear for one of my children. For some reason, this time was different. 
     "Calm down," I told myself. "It's just a fever. Kristi's had fevers before." But my anxiety wouldn't be quieted.
     Dread hung in the air while I waited for my husband. Holding my daughter close, I paced the room, moving from window to window, hoping to see his car.
     When he pulled into the driveway, I raced outside to meet him. Clutching Kristi to my chest I slid onto the seat beside him. "We've got to hurry!"
     We headed toward town, and I wanted to believe Kristi was all right, but as the green hills flashed by, fear pierced my heart. "Lord, I pleaded, I've always believed you would protect my children. I can't bear to lose my baby. Please help her."
     The emergency room was packed with sick patients. Pressed for time, the doctor made a hurried diagnosis. "She has a sinus infection. We'll get her on an antibiotic, and she should feel better by tomorrow."
     Greg and I returned home, relieved and a little embarrassed by our unreasonable alarm. But as the hours passed Kristi grew worse and my apprehension returned. Could the doctor have been wrong?
     Throughout the night, Kristi moaned and whimpered. When her temperature dropped I whispered a prayer of thanks. I didn't recognize that her cold, clammy skin signaled a decline in her condition. She was in shock and I had no idea.
     When I tried to hold Kristi, she whimpered and pushed against me as if my touch was painful to her. It was a long night of tears and prayers. By morning Kristi was quiet, her eyes open but not responsive. Her cries had become pitiful and monotone.
     As daylight stretched its cool fingers across my living room floor I roused my husband and we set off for the doctor's office.
     The nurse peeked at Kristi and her face blanched. She snatched my daughter from me and hurried to the back offices in search of the doctor.
     Greg and I followed, knowing something was terribly wrong.
     The doctor examined Kristi, then turned to us, his expression somber. He placed a hand on my shoulder. "Kristi has an infection of the central nervous system-spinal meningitis."
     My legs went weak and my heart pounded erratically. I reached for my husband's hand and held on tight while the doctor explained Kristi was in a critical condition and needed to be hospitalized.
     I stepped into the hospital entrance and the odor of disinfectants burned my nose. A nurse met us and took Kristi from me. As she walked away I wondered if I'd ever see my little girl again alive.
     Greg and I filled out paper work, then waited in stiff-backed chairs, feeling invisible amid the impersonal antiseptic world of the hospital.
     After performing a spinal tap on our little girl the doctor's prognosis was correct - spinal meningitis. She was comatose, in shock and septicemic. She'd be treated with powerful antibiotics and other lifesaving procedures.
     The doctor's words echoed through my mind. "If she's still alive after 72 hours, she might make it. Right now . . . she's crashing and burning."
     I stood outside the viewing window of Kristi's room. She was so tiny and helpless. Her hands were tied to the slats on a metal crib, tubes protruded from her body and the muscles in her neck had pulled her head so far back that it laid against her back. I longed to hold her.
     A nurse stood beside me and rested a hand on my arm. "She can't feel anything," she said kindly.
     Sobs choked me. I had to get away. I ran down the corridor, pushed through the doors at the end of the hall and stumbled into a deserted playroom.
     Deep sobs wrenched themselves from me. Pain, unlike any I'd known, pierced my heart.
     "God, this is too much! I can't bear it! Please save my little girl."
     Quietly, my husband came up behind me and pulled me into his arms. I felt his strength. For a long while we held each other, without sharing a word. And then Greg said, "I know she's going to be all right. God loves her. He'll take care of her."
     Leaning on each other, we returned to Kristi's room. After donning gowns and masks, we went to her side, caressed her hands and asked God to touch our baby with his healing power. We also released her to His care.
     And then peace, beyond my ability to understand, replaced my fear. I knew God would do what was best. He was faithful.
     Kristi made it through that first day and night and the next.
     When we arrived at the hospital the third morning, Kristi's nurse greeted us with a big smile. "She's awake!"
     Joy bubbled up inside me and I ran to her room.
     I was finally allowed to hold Kristi, something I feared might never happen. Amid a tangle of tubes, the nurse gently placed my little girl in my arms. The sickly sweet odor of antibiotics assaulted my senses, but all I cared about was that my daughter was nestled against me.
     Convinced Kristi would live, death was taken off the list of possibilities, but there was another list, side effects - blindness, paralysis, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, mental retardation, water on the brain and others.
     In the days that followed, we watched and waited, seeking further signs of recovery - a smile, recognition in her eyes, a response to sound. 
     Doctors discovered Kristi was unable to use her left leg and there was weakness on her left side as well as lack of coordination. They suspected cerebral palsy. A CT Scan was scheduled, then postponed when she improved. Then postponed again and finally it was decided she didn't need one because she was doing so well.
     Fourteen days after being admitted, Kristi left the hospital. We were gong home - together!

     Kristi tugged on my sleeve and smiled brightly. "Jesus came and hugged me," she said, talking about her dream. "He held me in his lap and I wasn't afraid anymore."
     I looked down at my four-year-old bundle of energy and thanked God for her and for a Savior who always has time to hold his children. We didn't see Him there with her . . . and yet He'd been there.



Kristi's illness happened many years ago. Though the meningitis left her with some neurological challenges, she is happy and healthy with a family of her own these days. I'm so thankful for a God of mercy who still creates miracles every day.

Grace and peace to you from God,

Bonnie



     


     
     
     

Books & Writing: Waiting

I've been a writer for a good many years and one thing I know is that I don't know it all. There's always something new that comes along, something I thought I understood but realize I really don't get. 

BUT one thing I do know for sure is that writing is all about waiting. We wait for story ideas to formulate in our minds. We wait for guidance from readers and writers, hoping for word back that the brilliant idea we have is truly story worthy. And once the writing begins there are long gaps of time filled with everything but writing and we wait for time to jump back into our story. 

After the writing is done we wait to hear from critique partners, agents and editors. Is the work worthy of publishing? Once it is ready to send off to a publisher there is the agonizing wait for word from the senior editor and then the committee (most story proposals are accepted or declined by committee). Upon acceptance there is the process of pounding out a contract, followed by the editorial journey, which can take several rounds of changes. While all this is taking place a cover is being created and a writer waits to get the first glimpse of the cover that will introduce their story to readers. And finally we wait for the release date. 

But that's not the end of it. We also wait for reviews and to hear from readers. Is it a smash hit or a dud?

I'm not good at waiting. It can be excruciating. And the most painful wait for me is the wait to hear from publishers. Do they like it or do they hate it? Do they want to publish it? Waiting through this phase is agony.

That's the place I am now. The clock is ticking. I'm waiting. 

I don't know how I'd manage these kinds of waits if not for my faith in God. He supports me, stands with. He knows the beginning and the end of all things. He even knows about my book, the one I'm waiting to hear about. 

He knows. 

He's in control.

And so, I take a deep breath, entrust my work to 
Him . .  and I wait.

What is the hardest waiting place for you? And how do you manage  the wait?

Grace and peace to you from God,

Bonnie

The Journey: A Spiritual Polyp?

While reading from one of my favorite devotionals (Streams in the Desert) this morning, I was told that I just might be a spiritual polyp. Ick! 

But there is more.

There are creatures, adult coral  invertebrates, known as polyps. These polyps work under water constructing coral reefs. All the while, they have no idea that they are helping create something spectacular. 

Sometimes God calls Christians to be spiritual polyps--doing the work they are called to without recognition from others, without knowing what the results of their work will be and without knowing what rewards await them in heaven.

I think the reason this struck a chord in me so strongly this morning is because the coming week offers possibilities of things I've worked hard for and hoped for, but with no promises of worldly success, which describes much of my writing career. And I fear that I may want it too much, when what I need to desire most is God's will. And to be content to be a spiritual polyp if that is His will.

It is okay to hope and dream. To find joy in possibilities, but no matter where God has called us to serve we should serve Him well and with devotion and joy.

The devotional included this:

Just where you stand in the conflict,

There is your place.

Just where you think you are useless,

Hide not your face.

God placed you there for a purpose,

What'er it be;

Think He has chosen you for it;

Work loyally.

Put on your armor! Be faithful

At toil and rest!

What're it be, never doubting

God's way is best.

Out in the fight or on lookout,

Stand firm and true;

This is the work that your Master

Gives you to do.

Resting in God today . . . as His servant.

Grace and peace to you from God,

Bonnie

Books & Reading: This Weeks Winner!

Thank you, Lorna Seilstad for being

my guest on Books & Writing

and

For giving away a copy of your new book!

The winner is . . .

Robyn Conners

Congratulations!

Lorna will be contacting you soon.

Quiet Moments With God -- Baggage

We just made another move. I'll save you the details, except to say it included my husband and I, and our two daughter's and their families. It was a lot of work. 

We've done this a number of times and you'd think we'd have the process down pat. And we do, pretty much. But one thing I've noticed each time is that after working ourselves silly to make sure our new place feels like home there is always something that doesn't find a place to live. 

Right now I have a bench seat that's sitting in front of the back door. I don't know where it belongs yet, but will soon. And this morning I noticed a microwave oven sitting on the wood stove hearth. It either needs to be donated, trashed or stored. No one in the family needs it right now, so there it sits.

When I walked by that microwave my first thought was why is that still hanging around? Everything else looks great--in it's proper place, and the house looks homey and tidy . . . all except for that microwave.

I remember when we first moved that microwave really bugged me. It needed a home. However, over the past week I've grown accustomed to it and barely notice it sitting there on the hearth. Isn't that a lot like our spiritual lives? We leave "stuff" out or carry it around . . . needlessly. And pretty soon we barely notice it, even though some of the "stuff" really hinders our spiritual walk.

I figure most of us can pretty quickly think of something we're carrying around in our spiritual house. And it's likely something we either refuse to deal with or that we've grown accustomed to and barely see.   

What is some of the baggage we refuse to discard? 

• Wounds we've been unable to forgive and release-bitterness is the result. 
• Unfulfilled expectations-are you disappointed or angry? 
• Unanswered prayers--God always answers, but sometimes He says wait or no. 
• What about personal guilt-I've got plenty of that, how about you?
• Unresolved sin-The Lord waits to hear from us. He's done it all, but we need to ask for forgiveness.

We have various types of baggage, but all of it damages our relationship with The Father. If we truly want to discard the baggage we need to look at it and see it for what it is. Only then can we let it go. Don't try this on your own. We don't have the power in ourselves to succeed at dumping spiritual baggage. But the Lord does and He will give us the wisdom and strength to do it. 

Dumping baggage is usually a journey and it doesn't happen over night. God will show us the way--seek Him and be patient. Have confidence in the Lord for He is the one who will carry us on the journey toward whole and healthy hearts. 

Grace and peace to you from God,

Bonnie

Books & Writing: We have a winner!

Many thanks to Laura Hilton for being my guest here on Books & Reading . . . and for offering a free copy of her new book, Surrendered Love, to one of you.

The Winner Is . . .

Tanya Warrington

(We need your email address!)

Congratulations!

Laura will be in touch soon and a book will be on its way.

Books & Writing -- Author Lorna Seilstad

Welcome Lorna Seilstad!

Lorna is the author of Making Waves, A Great Catch, and The Ride of Her Life. A former high school English and journalism teacher, she has won several online writing contests and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers. Lorna lives in Iowa with her husband. Find out more at www.lornaseilstad.com.

Lorna sat down with the hero (Lincoln Cole) and heroine (Hannah Gregory) who star in her new book, When Love Calls, and talked to them about their romance.

•  Lincoln, what's the most romantic thing you ever did for Hannah?

     I'm a romantic kind of guy. I like to show Hannah how I feel. I think the most romantic thing I did was take her to the top of the state capitol. She loves heights and the idea of flying, so it was the perfect spot.

• What's the most romantic thing you've done, Hannah?

     Hmmm. I'm not sure I've done anything in particular.

•  Where is the most romantic place you two have been?

     Hannah-Oddly enough, I think it was an aviary in a park. Lincoln has a way of turning even innocent bird names into flirtations. Oh, and I would have to say the trip to the dome of the state capitol. That's where he first told me he loved me.

• Do you two have a favorite romantic restaurant?

     Lincoln-I don't think we have a favorite, but I think we'd both agree our favorite food would be prepared by Hannah's sister, Charlotte. Boy, that girl can cook.

• How about a favorite song? Do you have one?

     Lincoln-No, I don't think so.

• Hannah, what's the most romantic gift Lincoln has ever given you?

     I never would have admitted this to Lincoln at the time, but including coffee beans in the groceries he had delivered to my sisters and me was a stroke of genius. I hadn't had any in weeks, and that first cup was perfect.

• How about you, Lincoln; what's the most romantic gift Hannah's given you?

     I'd have to say, sharing her sisters with me. The gift of a family has been a huge blessing.

• Hannah, what is Lincoln's favorite romantic vacation destination?

     I think Lincoln would love to travel the world. He's a man who loves knowledge and enjoys discovering new things. He likes challenges.

• Lincoln, what do you think would be Hannah's favorite romantic vacation destination?

     I think she'd love to visit the Wright brothers at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina because she's fascinated with flight. I'd love to take her there, but I'm not sure I could handle her actually flying one of those machines.

• What simple gesture does Lincoln do that melts you Hannah?

     All it takes is a touch from Lincoln to melt me and ignite me at the same time.

• Lincoln what is it that Hannah does that melts you every time?

     Hannah's smile. She is simply so beautiful.

• How soon after meeting Hannah did you know she was the one?

     I knew Hannah was the one way before she knew I was meant for her. You might say I grew on her.

• Hannah how long did it take for you to know Lincoln was the one for you?

  I didn't want Lincoln to be the one. He was the person the bank sent to tell me they were taking our home. It wasn't the best way to start a relationship.

• Who would you say is most romantic of the two of you?

     I'd say Lincoln is. He is very good at wooing people. He's good at reading them too, and he used both to win me.

• Hannah, what is the most caring thing Lincoln has ever done for you?

     He loved me and my sisters right from the start. He knew we were a package deal and accepted that.

• How about you, Lincoln?

     Hannah hid a truth from me because she was afraid it would hurt me. It caused problems for us, but I knew it came from her heart.

• Who said, "I love you" first?

     Lincoln did, and it was in the most romantic way.

• If you two end up married, where will you go on your honeymoon?

     Since I have two sisters to raise, our honeymoon couldn't be too long. I think we'd both enjoy a trip to the Grand Canyon.

If you'd like to know Lincoln and Hannah

better, pick up a copy of

When Love Calls.

     

Hannah Gregory is good at many things, but that list doesn't include following rules. So when she is forced to apply for a job as a telephone switchboard operator to support her two sisters, she knows it won't be easy. "Hello Girls" must conduct themselves according to strict-and often bewildering-rules. No talking to the other girls. No chatting with callers. No blowing your nose without first raising your hand. And absolutely no consorting with gentlemen while in training.

Meanwhile, young lawyer Lincoln Cole finds himself in the unfortunate position of having to enforce the bank's eviction of the three Gregory girls from their parents' home. He tries to soften the blow by supporting them in small ways as they settle into another home. But fiery Hannah refuses his overtures and insists on paying back every cent of his charity.

When one of Hannah's friends finds himself on the wrong side of a jail cell, Hannah is forced to look to Lincoln for help. Will it be her chance to return to her dreams of studying law? And could she be falling in love?

With historic details that bring to life the exciting first decade of the twentieth century, Lorna Seilstad weaves a charming tale of camaraderie and companionship that blossoms into love. Readers will get lost in this sweet romance and will eagerly look forward to championing each sister's dreams.

This sounds like a really fun read. 

And the cover is stunning!

For a chance to win a FREE copy of 

When Love Calls

all you have to do is leave a comment 

along with your email address.

I'll choose a winner one week from today.

Lorna can be found on the web at: 
www.lornaseilstad.com.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Lorna-Seilstads-Fan-Page/119754468040830?fref=ts