 I remember standing in line outside the aluminum-framed glass doors of Midwestern Christian Academy, waiting to walk through the hallowed halls and into my 7th grade year. The day was cool and crisp. The leaves were turning shades of gold, orange and brilliant burgundy. There was a freshness in the air that mirrored my own musings. I loved new beginnings. My meticulously sharpened pencils and just purchased outfit and supplies readied me to begin this new educational chapter in my life. All was right with the world. My world. No mistakes or ugliness to cloud the day. I had the chance to begin again. With schoolwork, friends and attitude.
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 Have you ever assumed writers use their gift of words effortlessly? Are you a writer who is discouraged, or maybe in a rut? I want to challenge you to join Julie Hedlund and a host of picture book writers to make 2019 your best creative year yet. Click this link and c’mon over and join us — there’s still a couple of days left: http://www.juliehedlund.com/12days
 It took all the strength we could muster to stand up straight against the wind as we walked along the Portuguese shore; Cape Roca - the farthest point west jutting out into the Atlantic. One never really understands the fierce elements that has made this ocean a menace for centuries until you’ve battled it.
That’s perseverance. It’s different from endurance. Which is why I chose the former as my word for 2019.  “Words mean things” reminds my husband, when I’ve not clearly explained something, or use the wrong words in my conveyance of a concept. Since I’m an author, I know just how powerful words can be. And surprisingly, so are mere letters.
How many times do we let our minds wander, for no good purpose? Unfortunately, it commonly occurs while we are listening to a sermon. Or a lecture. Times when we need to be paying attention. Last Sunday, I was guilty of that very habit. But it lead me to a treasure to ponder. My mind went from wandering to pondering. And then, it ended in wonder. A perfect state to be caught in during the Christmas Season. From wandering to wondering. The letter “O” made all the difference. . .  I don’t know about you, but I have too much stuff — on the inside and outside. In my house. On my schedule. Swirling about in my head. I'm a Minimalist wanna be.
When I stopped in World Market the other day, I was bombarded with colors, shapes, scents and clutter. A good kind of clutter, but clutter none the less. Materialism at its best. Since my debut MG historical fiction, "The Heart Changer" releases in Spring of 2019, I'm capturing photos of hearts. This one above from the Market is an example.  In 2012, I was inspired to write, “Christmas Musings” as I pondered the reason for this season. Each cast of characters, each scene of the account tells a story of its own. So, since Christmas is traditionally about gifts, who were the first gift givers? Here’s a peek into their journey. . .
 Revisionist History is troubling for an author like me. How so? My passion is to make Scripture and history come alive for my readers. And I truly believe those who don’t learn from the past, are bound to make the same mistakes in the future. And I am a truth teller. And a lover of history. And most frustrating of all . . .
 As leaves fall and autumn turns towards winter, we are reminded to give thanks. To have a heart of gratitude. It’s so easy to complain rather than say thank you. Why is that?
Grumbling comes more naturally to us. Sometimes it even brings a sense of satisfaction. But then, after a while, discontent seeps in. The only way I have found to turn those dark complaining thoughts around is to be grateful. There is always someone who is less fortunate than us. When we bring them to mind, our situation doesn’t seem as hopeless.  The Four Types of Facebook Friends . . .After being on Facebook for a number of years, I’ve realized there are four types of ‘friends’. Do you see yourself among them?
 Yep!
These are the crazy dreams on my own bucket list. And they are all legit. Meaning, in the future, they are doable. For years, I’ve heard the term, but never really knew where it originated from. I imagined it was a place to keep all your hopes and dreams safe— in a bucket. Then I heard a few months back that such a checklist was to be accomplished before you, well— kicked the bucket. I think I prefer my own definition. So, I got to pondering (which I do quite often): why even have a bucket list? I thought of four reasons, but I’m sure there’s at least one more. |
Good News!My MG Biblical fiction "The Heart Changer" debuted in 2019 with Ambassador International. Categories
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