Primal-A Quest for the Lost Soul of Christianity by Mark Batterson

Even in the busy time of the Christmas holiday season, "Primal-A Quest for the Lost Soul of Christianity" by Mark Batterson, was a book that I carved out time for. The question: "What would your Christianity look like if it was stripped down to the simplest, rawest, purest faith possible?" is one that my minister-son and I discussed at length about last week. Prayer without clich'es, awed silence, and "The Americanized Gospel" have stirred my spirit as well as my brain. I have recommended this book to many of my friends. I think it is a great study for people who want to get past the varnish and chrome and find the real basis for Faith in God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit.
Elaine Littau, author of Nan's Journey & Elk's Resolve

Feeding the 5000

I was at a meeting last year where the subject was "Feeding the 5000". Perhaps you are an author wondering how you are going to get your book into the hands of the multitudes or you may be someone with a mountain of debt or some other insurmountable task. The speaker that night said that Jesus didn't just plunge in and start feeding everyone. He had the disciples divide the group into companies of 50s and 100s and also the women and children. Some estimates are that the crowd was really about 15, 000 people. They just counted the men. There were 5000 men. He said that when we have something we need to do we need to divide the task up into manageable pieces. The end result will be the same, but the process is a process of faithfulness.
Whether it is putting an extra $20 on each bill or setting your book sales to 10 to 20 books per month. The process is faithfulness. Today one of my author friends celebrated the sale of over 5000 books. (Not everyone is John Grissom so 5000 is huge!) All of the author friends rejoiced with her. She did it one book at a time. Faithfulness..Feeding the 5000!

Today my interview is with Tracey Marley. You will enjoy her story.



1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
Tracey Marley, author of Promise for Tomorrow

2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
That I am real and that I face the same struggles, temptations and trials as the next woman. I am very much a work in progress and it is the through the power of God that I wrote this story and have been able to experience the blessing of watching it become a published reality.

3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
About seven days after I started my first book! I've always enjoyed journaling and such but when I dreamed the story of Promise for Tomorrow and started to write it down, I couldn't seem to stop. In seven months, I wrote it and the other four, possibly five, rough drafts for the remainder of the series as well as a separate stand alone title.

4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
Although I write fiction, I like to keep it real. I purposefully write situations and characters that are sometimes sticky and hard to deal with because that's what we face in reality. The Christian life isn't perfect nor will it be this side of Glory. I like to toss in a little humor to lighten things up, but in the end I want my readers to walk away with insights and truths that they can apply to their everyday life.

5. Are you a reader?
Yes. I love reading Christian romances as well as Bible Studies/Self Help books.

6. What are you reading right now?
This Present Darkness, a fiction novel, written in 1986 by Frank E. Peretti. It deals heavily with spiritual warfare which is something I deal with on a regular basis. There is no doubt as to why God kept putting it in front of me time and time again. I am also doing the study When Godly People Do Ungodly Things, by Beth Moore.

7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
Promise for Tomorrow is the first book in the Heritage House Series. Forgiveness for Yesterday, book two, is what I am currently trying to finish. Where book one teaches the beauty of hope, love and restoration to the broken hearted, book two will teach the cost, gift, and value of God’s forgiveness to the undeserving, and how He expects His children to mirror that forgiveness to others.

8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
Time is always a struggle because I'm not just a writer. I'm also a pastor's wife, a mom and a graphic designer. In addition to those demands, either right before I write or right after I write I will often go through what is sometimes intense spiritual warfare. Depression, anxiety, doubt, fear, temptation—you name it—can often leave me feeling sidetracked and overwhelmed. I battle against this by surrounding myself with the truth of God's word. The Bible tells me in Isaiah chapter 55, verses 10-11 that: "As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth; It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it." These verses remind me that God has given me a message to share through a story and that as long as I'm obedient to Him, He will bless me.

9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok) Promise for Tomorrow is the tale of a heart’s journey through the changing seasons of life and how God can bring something beautiful out of the ashes of loss and gives promise for the future—whatever it may bring.

Back cover copy:
Karen McMasters is tired of trying to convince everyone she is okay. It has been five years since the death of her beloved husband, Eric, and time still feels frozen in the past. The only cure for Karen and her children is to move away from the memories of what they have lost. Now living in Greensboro, North Carolina, Karen meets Amanda, a fun and vivacious spirit who dates Chris Lanning, the handsome bachelor with a past that offers more questions than answers. Chris offers an introduction to his best friend Bret Sears, allowing Karen to meet the first man whose Christian ideals match his striking good looks since Eric. Karen feels God’s spirit telling her it is okay to move on with her life, but what about her children and the memory of her loving late husband? As Amanda unearths more of Chris’ mysterious past, Karen searches for ways to minister to her friends while trying to figure out what God’s plan for her includes. What terrible injustice happened to Chris? Will temptation threaten to ruin Karen and Bret? Or will they rise above and seek the assurance God offers them if they listen to his Promise for Tomorrow?

10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
My contact is traceymarley@embarqmail.com or traceymarley.tatepublishing.net. Books can be ordered through my website or anywhere books are sold.



It is great to get to know the writers. If you missed one of the past interviews of the talented authors I have been interviewing be sure to visit my blog and catch up. These are interesting people!

My "Prown"

I am the sixth of six children in my family. (so is Terry) My brothers and sisters were mostly grown up when I came on the scene. My closest brother in age, Jim, was around 13 yrs older than me. He married young and I was the only child left at home. I had a lot of nieces and nephews to play with and I didn't mind that.
I don't know when my fastination with crowns started. I think it was from the old television show "Queen for a day." I LOVED that show. I didn't care that the lucky woman usually got a new refrigerator and washer. All I cared about was the crown. I also liked the robe, but the crown was the thing. I imagined myself with a crown and that was one of the reasons I was so interested in going to heaven. (I know... shallow ...but I was 4!)
One day, before he got married, Jim, came into our little house with something for me. He had gone to the corner drug store (the name of the store was Corner Drug.) and purchased the most beautiful crown you ever laid your eyes on! It had to have been the largest in the store because I still haven't seen one that size for sale at Walmart or anywhere. It had very nice rhinestones and was perfect. My heart skipped a few beats! He put it on my head and I danced like crazy. I called it my "prown". (Remember, I was 4.) There have been few gifts in my lifetime that have meant as much to me. My old walking doll, Mary, wears it now with jeans and a red top in the corner of my bedroom. My brother, Jim, is a dear friend to me still. We have the best conversations. I love him so much.
My other brother, Maynard, is so attentive to everyone in the family. He remembers birthdays and events. He calls often and gives me the gift of time. He is the greatest! I love him, too.
My sister, Geraldine, is my rock! She is someone I couldn't do without. I love her so much. We have lived in the same town my whole life. There have been few days that I haven't seen her or talked with her. She is so precious.
I have two sisters who have gone to be with the Lord. One, Wanda, left at age 35 in 1976. I still miss her every day. I am able to put my arms around her by holding onto her 5 children and loving on them. The other, Donna, passed away in 2001at age 69. She was always an encouragement. We used to talk a lot on the phone. I miss both of them so much but I can still hear their sweet voices and laughter. I could never forget their singing, laughter, stories and love.
One day I will see them again and I will get my crown. Then I will kneel at the feet of Jesus with all the others and place my crown at His feet because He is worthy of all praise and He is the King.


Today I want to introduce to you Shawna Blalock. She is also a Tate Publishing and Enterprises author. You will find this interview very sweet and interesting.

1. What is your name and the title of your book?
Shawna Blalock That Puppy Dog Took My Boots

2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
Most people ask if I have always been good at writing and the answer is yes, they also ask if I always knew I wanted to be a writer and the answer is no.

3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
A couple of years ago I prayed for a platform to be able to spread God's word and after about 6 months the Lord showed me that writing children's books was how I could spread His word. I have two small children and he is using them to give me stories to write about.

4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
God has given me the ability to tell stories.(written or spoken)

5. Are you a reader? Somewhat

6. What are you reading right now?
I am reading Boy-Sterous Living by Jean Blackmer

7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication?
Tell about it. I actually have 6 more stories written, they are all about my oldest son and the interesting things he says and does. Two or three of them are experiences involving teaching my oldest son about Jesus and that he lives in our hearts.

8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
For me my biggest obstacle is time. My two sons provide more than enough stories to write on but between being a stay at home mom, taking my oldest to Playschool and running after my 2 year old the day slips by. Oh did I mention housework and dinner for my husband 5 nights a week? I wouldn't change it for the world because I am doing what the Lord is telling me to.

9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
Jeston is upset! He can't find his favorite pair of cowboy boots. The neighbor's dog, Fred, always liked them too. Did he take them? Author Shawna Blalock brings the reader through Jeston's journey to find out in That Puppy Dog Took My Boots

10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books?
My email address is thatpuppydogtookmyboots@netzero.net and you can purchase the book from www.tatepublishing.com or any major bookstore on-line. I also have a facebook fan page www.facebook.com/shawna.blalock and a blog at www.thatpuppydogtookmyboots.blogspot.com

Authors of Children's Books are amazing. If you missed one of the past interviews of the talented authors I have been interviewing be sure to visit my blog and catch up. These was interesting people!

http://nansjourney.blogspot.com

See you next week. I hope you enjoyed this.

The Best Gifts

The best gifts are ones that cannot be opened with your hands. I think that a heart full of love and forgiveness that Terry offers me is just the best gift that one human can give another. Of course the greatest Gift of all is our Lord Jesus.

Now I want to be a little less spiritual for a moment. I remember back when I was 4 yrs old Mother and Daddy gave me a life size "walking doll". She was exactly my size and could wear my clothes. Her official name was Patty Play Pal but I named her Mary. Mama and I didn't change her clothes many times because she wasn't very pliable. It usually turned into a wrestling match between Mama and Mary. Mama liked curly hair and Mary had hair that was as straight as a board. We put curlers in it many times and never made any kind of impact on her hair. I was very jealous of her the first week I had her because Mama and Daddy really seemed to like her a lot. (I felt more than me at times.) I was shy in front of her until it occurred to me that she wasn't real. I put her in bed with me but soon kicked her out because her cold plastic legs and arms never warmed up. They stayed cold. I reminded myself that she was NOT real, again. Would you believe that Mary stands in the corner of my bedroom next to some of the other favorite dolls, Sweetie Pie and Kitty (Yes, I was a Gunsmoke fan...Miss Kitty in particular.) Mary is wearing a little pair of jeans and a red shirt with a beautiful rhinestone crown that my brother bought for me. (That is another story.) I said all of that to say, "Some gifts are for Keeps."

Please read my interview with Emil Kirstein from South Africa.



1. 1.What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
Thank you for this interview. My name is Emil Kirstein and I’m from South Africa. The name of my debut novel is Quest for Freedom, and it’s published by Tate Publishing & Enterprises.

2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
Maybe the readers would like to know that I’ve got mileage on my odometer and overtime on my clock. Jokes aside, I write from my experiences and real-life lessons that I’ve learned. Though my stories are fiction, I strive for them to be real.
My experience stems from having been in business, a missionary, a Bible teacher and an English teacher in South Africa’s Western Cape Province, Malawi, and South Korea. Currently my wife, Lorna, and I are semi-retired. We focus on writing books and tutoring English, mostly to Koreans studying here in South Africa.

3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
Since primary school days I’ve been a storyteller, but had never considered sitting down and writing a novel. I felt that I was a missionary and teacher, full stop. I did write a lot of Bible school material and on a few occasions I did consider writing a book on some teachings—but that just never happened. Then about midway into 2006 I was reminded that the greatest teacher, Jesus, was a storyteller. He knew that the vast majority of people are more interested in listening to a story than listening to a teaching—even though a small minority prefers a teaching. Thus my novel was born.

4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I try to tell a story that’s true to life and has life-lessons embedded in it. I try to tell it simply, but I also try to use good language in the process of telling it. I try to skip the boring parts even though some boring parts are unfortunately necessary to fill in the background and set the scene. The readers will have to judge for themselves whether I’ve been successful in my goals.

5. Are you a reader?
Ironically, no! During my high school days I was an avid reader of Westerns. It took me about two hours to read a cowboy book. Nowadays I like reading study materials like encyclopedias and the like. Rather weird, wouldn’t you say?

6. What are you reading right now?
Please don’t laugh, but I’m busy brushing up on English grammar and South African history. As I said, please don’t laugh.

7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
Quest for Freedom was the first on the drawing board, and has by God’s grace progressed to the bookstore. From the beginning I’d envisaged a trilogy—continuing with Quest for Life and finishing with Quest for Truth.

8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
I’m one of those creatures who have difficulty in multitasking. So, when I write, I’d like to be marooned on an island, cut off from the world—but with all the benefits of civilization intact of course. However, that’s simply not possible. So, it’s start up, pause, step back, restart, pause… an endless cycle. I’m quite sure that I’m not the only writer on a quest—a quest for peace and quiet! Therefore, the best time for me to start writing is about 2am! You may check with my beloved wife if you don’t believe me.

9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
Quest for Freedom is a story about freedom, as the title suggests. It’s a story about relationships— relationships between people and relationship with God. The secondary title expounds on it a bit: Being free amidst life’s ups and downs. The back matter on the book cover reads thus:
Mike and Anne are about to get a divorce. Despite the love between them, the hardships in their lives might be too much for them to take. A fresh start could be the best thing for both of them. Paul and Claire Shaw have a different problem. Paul is a pastor, and Claire is a compassionate wife. After a series of tragedies, however, Paul’s faith in God is severely shaken. What do these couples have in common? They are on a Quest for Freedom from the secrets that have scarred their souls. They are looking for hope despite trauma and turmoil.
Enter Old Charles Young, a man who has a different kind of secret: he has found true freedom from the pain and darkness of his own secrets, trauma, and turmoil. Walk with these couples as they learn that they were made for freedom, regardless of the challenges life hands them.
Author Emil Kirstein’s easy, conversational style allows the reader to become a “fly on the wall” as each character unfolds his or her Quest for Freedom. The real-life lessons they’ve learned provide clues for the characters—and the reader—to find what they are seeking.
In his review, Jim Miller, Marketing Representative of Tate Publishing & Enterprises, said:
Quest for Freedom tells the story of two struggling couples who find hope in the wisdom of an old man they barely know. Emil Kirstein writes with the heart of a pastor and the insight of a counselor. This book is an enjoyable read, but it is also much more than that. It is useful as a companion to pastoral or Christian counseling, a gift for people who are seeking answers for the difficulties in life, and as edification for fellow believers in Christ. The best part about Emil’s writing style is that it is in no way heavy-handed or preachy.

10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
Readers can contact me at my website, http://kirsteinonline.com. There are links to email me, buy the book, read my blog, connect with me on Facebook, and the like. I welcome feedback from readers. It helps me keep my stories real.

This was a great interview. If you missed one of the past interviews of the talented authors I have been interviewing be sure to visit my blog and catch up. These was interesting people!

Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving
I know we have heard this over and over again. We need to be thankful for every day. This becomes reality when we realize that there are so many things we take for granted such as health, family, friends, freedom, and our Lord.

I have been attempting to treat people as if this might be the last time I see them. (minus the tears and clingy hugs) I ask myself, "Would I be glad these were my last words to my friend or loved one?" I have had too many of these last conversations. Happily, I haven't had any regrets. I want to be thankful for all the people in my life.

As far as my health. Thank God I have been living with many more painless days than I have in a very long time. I will never take pain-free days for granted again.

Freedom is always to be treasured. I am so grateful to the men and women in our past and present military for putting themselves on the line for me. Thank you so much.

Then there is my Lord, my Savior, Jesus Christ. I am so thankful for Him. He has been my best friend every since I was a little kid. I love Him so much.
Thankful, thankful, thankful...that is one thing I want to be remembered for.



Today I am sending you the interview I did with Matthew DeBettencourt . He has written a book that sounds exciting.

1. What is your name and the title of your book?
My name is Matthew DeBettencourt. My first published work is a juvenile fiction novel titled The Island of Time: The Journal of Randy Carr.

2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
It usually impresses people to know I wrote this book in High School. It was dedicated to the three people in my English class my sophomore year, and my cousin, who read some of my work before anyone else, convincing me to keep writing.

3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
It's sounds silly, but keep in mind I'm from the second Nintendo generation. I used to write as early as second grade, with very short stories that were often accompanied by a single page drawing (my older brother would help me with), but what really got me into writing was a TV show. When I was home-schooled, my older brothers had to get ready for public high school, and every morning we'd watch the same show just before they left for the bus: "Pokemon". It was new to America at the time, and the story behind it just interested me. So my first "manuscript" (a complete rip-off of Pokemon--which will never be released) was about the same length as The Island of Time, filling four notebooks of paper. I completed it within a year and half (and I even stole some names from it for The Island of Time, like Joe Young). But that was how I got into writing fiction.

4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
My writing style has a lot of dialogue. I find myself describing more in the dialogue than I do in the paragraphs in between. Not sure if that's a strong point or a weakness, really.

5. Are you a reader?
I used to read a LOT when I was growing up. I don't make enough time for it right now, but I've gradually gotten back into reading for pleasure.

6. What are you reading right now?
I'm juggling a few books right now "The Stakes Are High" by Dennis R. Ray, and "Persuasion" by Jane Austen are among them.

7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I do, actually I'm very excited about a couple projects I have working, the continuation to The Island of Time included.
It's called The Island of Legends Past, and I don't feel inclined to reveal anything about it.
I'm also working on a project (as of yet untitled) about Big Brothers Big Sisters, and I'm working on getting support from the Hartford division "Nutmeg Big Brothers Big Sisters".

8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
My biggest obstacle is making time to write when I have the desire to write. In high school, with The Island of Time, my most brilliant cure for this was Index Cards. I filled several stacks of index cards with paragraphs and quotes--"excerpts" of what would eventually be the book. Any time I got a great idea, usually in the form of dialogue or a good description of a person or place, it went on an index card, at home, in math class, at work, wherever I was. (My notebook went--and STILL goes with me--everywhere).

9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
How do you determine the killer of a man who doesn't exist?
That's just the question Strawberry Sundae Investigations faces in Matt DeBettencourt's The Island of Time: The Journal of Randy Carr. This gripping tale follows Dawn and Taran, two lovers on important missions. Set in an age of hover cars and androids, Dawn, a detective, must help the Sundaes investigate the murder of a man found dead above an antique shop. Despite advanced methods of crime-solving, the Sundaes are unable to find the identity of the murder victim, who doesn't seem to exist on any governmental database.
Meanwhile, Dawn's fiancé, Taran, is working on a time-travel experiment for Karz Corporation. When a glitch in Taran's machine leaves him stranded on an island in the past, he begins to set up a new civilization by bringing people from the future to the island—setting in motion a chain of events with a suspiciously familiar outcome.
As events in the two times become intertwined, everyone will find that things are far more complicated than they realized.
Unlock the mystery when you travel to The Island of Time

10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
Readers can find my book on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other online vendors.
They could go to the Tate Publishing website and order from there: http://www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore/book.php?w=978-1-60604-647-0
Or for a personalized copy from me, I can be contacted through Facebook, MySpace, or email.
F.B. http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Island-of-Time/75719674486
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/TheIslandofTime
email: md3b3tt@yahoo.com

If you missed one of the past interviews of the talented authors I have been interviewing be sure to visit my blog and catch up. These was interesting people!

http://nansjourney.blogspot.com

See you next week. I hope you enjoyed this newsletter. Tell your friends to subscribe at http://elainelittau.com

Holiday Season

Holiday Season

The Holiday Season is upon us. Soon Thanksgiving will be here and then Christmas. It is time for not only shopping, but reflection. How do we want our families to remember the holidays with us. Will they remember a frazzeled mother/grandmother, a stressed out dad/grandfather, laughter or arguments from the siblings and grandchildren. One thing I am going to attempt this year is not striving for perfection. My kids know I am not perfect and so do my sweet daughters-in-law. Don't tell the grandkids they aren't aware yet.
Let us remember the reason for the season...even the Thanksgiving season.

Today I am sending you the interview I did with Kimberly Thompson.
She has written a book that moves your heart.

1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
My name is Kimberly Thompson; the title of my book is Gypsy Phoenix: A Birthright of Hope.

2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I think the one thing that readers might want to know, is that I overcame obstacles in my life which were purposed to destroy me, but only made me stronger - and that I believe everyone can do the same.

3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I've always written, ever since I learned how. I've written Haiku, poetry (rhyming and freeverse), short stories, and also have other books in the works. I've always wanted to write.

4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
My strongest points are that 1) I'm "brutally honest" about everything, including my own faults, 2) I make the reader feel as if they are sitting with me, listening to me tell my tale, and 3) I don't try to dazzle anyone with huge words that would have to be defined before reading more.

5. Are you a reader?
Oh yes! I'm definitely a reader! I have daily devotional time that I spend with the Lord in reading His Word, every day. Usually at night when I go to bed, it's with a book - whether it's poetry or fiction or history, I love to read!

6. What are you reading right now?
Right now, I'm reading "The Island of Time: The Journal of Randy Carr", published by Tate Publishing and authored by Matthew Debettencourt of Southbridge, MA. It's a fast-paced, futuristic science-fiction fantasy novel... very intriguing!

7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
Yes, I have several. Actually, one is a children's book about adoption that I submitted as a contest entry a few years back. It wasn't chosen, so I just kept it. It's only about thirty pages long, and there are no illustrations, yet. The second one is a fantasy novel that I've been working on and tweaking since I was 18 years old. A friend and I started it, but never finished it. I'm thinking now, that it should be done in short-story form, for children. I also have numerous poems and Haikus written... but I've not decided to have them published... just yet. I have so many recipes that I've started typing them and printing them out. I have friends that ask for my recipes every time I cook for a special event, so I keep them on my computer and print them out when I need them - I'm thinking now, a cookbook may be in order!

8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
My biggest obstacle to writing is time - I have very little of it. I work a full-time job, we have an orchard to care for, one child (of five) left at home, a house to run, I'm a "gg", and I'm also a Certified NRA Instructor for Basic Pistol classes - a handgun safety course. I overcome this obstacle by taking the time necessary - TAKING the time, not making the time. While clothes are washing, instead of dusting or vacuuming, I take the time to write, when I can. Things like that... I call it "stealing time". Sometimes I have to stay up late to write, but when the muse hits... well, you know how it is when you're on a roll!

9. Please put a description of each of your books here.
I only have one published at this time, so here it is. Gypsy Phoenix: A Birthright of Hope "It was a tiny scrap of paper, faded and yellow, with answers to my past written all over it. Why would she save this? 'We thought you might want to find her one day. She sent a message to you; she said to tell you that she loves you very much, and she didn't want to leave you.' Growing up with the broiling heat and frequently unpredictable tropical weather of Louisiana was the easy part; not knowing who she was or where she came from was the hard part. In Gypsy Phoenix, author Kimberly Thompson recalls her life-to-date through pain, tears, and ultimate joy. Relinquished at birth, Kimberly lived life into her thirties always lacking what she truly wished for—answers about her past. But afraid of hurting her adoptive parents, she waits thirty-two years before the embers that have been smoldering within ignite, threatening to devour her completely. Watch Kimberly's story unfold as she discovers unconditional love and forgiveness, which finally offer the freedom to take flight like a Gypsy Phoenix. Having spent many years in ignorance of her heritage, and without the gospel of truth to guide her life, she has finally come full circle to the revelation of who she is and where she began. Whether you have experienced adoption personally or just someone you know, this powerful story will speak to the lost and encourage those who have questions to continue seeking answers."

10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
Readers can contact me on my FaceBook fan page to order... http://www.facebook.com/people/Kimberly-Thompson/100000290615969#/pages/Gypsy-Phoenix-A-Birthright-of-Hope/158557400129?ref=nf They can order directly from Tate Publishing... http://www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore/book.php?w=978-1-61566-192-3 And they can contact me at my email addresses: 1) ggzplace@yahoo.com2) boudica.rebels@gmail.com

If you missed one of the past interviews of the talented authors I have been interviewing be sure to visit my blog and catch up. These was interesting people!

Encouragement

Have you ever thought of the value of encouragement? Webster's definition is:to give courage, hope, or confidence to: embolden, hearten.
Discourage is: to deprive of courage, hope, or confidence, dishearten.How are we able to give courage? One way is to look at someone and tell them what you see in them. Sometimes people are so blind to their strengths that you need to be their mirror. Have you ever seen one of those plastic surgery shows where a beautiful girl comes in and is sure that her nose is awful? You look and can't figure out what is wrong but she has studied her "flaw" so long that she cannot see anything else.I am amazed at the need for encouragement in our day and time. People that you would think have all the confidence in the world need encouragement. It is one thing that we can give that costs us nothing. I think that sometimes we withhold compliments and things of that nature to keep our friend from "getting the big head". The trouble with that is that it is much harder to obtain courage than discouragement.

John Maxwell was speaking with Joyce Meyer on her show about his father and mother moving to a retirement trailer park in Florida. John had asked his dad to slow down on travel so his dad decided to begin a ministry of encouragement. John asked him who had put him in charge of this. His dad said that no one else was doing it so he might as well. After some time had passed John went back to see his folks. Their phone was ringing off the hook. People were calling in for prayer. His dad kept his cell phone with him and made his rounds in a golf cart. He visited his neighbors and was overseeing encouragers in dozens of senior trailer parks in the area. God bless that man! His ministry is so needed. Look at where you are. What can you do?

Today I am sending you the interview I did with Jennifer A. Carle. She has written a book that I think we could all learn from.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
Jennifer A. Carle~
Finally Winsome;
Face of Prozac;
Becoming Waldo

2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?I feel that if I have knowledge about something that I found particularly hard to deal with, it is my duty to share what I know so others don't have to go through what I have.

3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I don't think this is really my calling, but more of a path in the road to my final dream which is to create a foundation for injured domestic animals to be able to get proper medical care when the owners can't afford it. I don't think anyone should have to choose between caring for a pet or euthanizing it because of financial difficulties.

4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I write just like I speak. People who know me that read my books say they often feel as though they are sitting next me listening to one of my stories. I am very funny in an offbeat, self depreciating way which readers tend to identify with.

5. Are you a reader?
Yep!

6. What are you reading right now?
I'm doing research on Narcissistic Personality Disorder for book number 5. That stuff is so overwhelming and unsettling I need to unplug with trashy stuff like People magazine!

7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication?
Tell about it. I just, this morning, submitted a manuscript idea for a book on breaking the cycle of Narcissistic Personality Disorder. It can go on for generations. Interestingly enough, the daughter of the narcissistic mother says that she'll never be like her mom. The daughter becomes a mother and becomes narcissistic because that's all she knows to do. Whether she behaves like her mother or not is not really relevant. Interesting and powerful stuff that surely will not make me the favorite of my family, but I'm pretty used to that by now.

8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
Facebook addiction; lack of motivation; kids downloading songs on my computer. Walk my dog around the neighborhood for a couple of miles until an idea hits me between the eyes (or go on facebook and write about my laziness on my wall!)

9. Please put a description of each of your books here.
My book Finally Winsome is about a dog that I adopted from the SPCA that I thought was charming and sweet because of how she looked in her cage. She was probably abused and was very distrusting of others and extremely protective of me. Winn becomes protective of the entire family, and as she gets older, she begins to relax and need protection from me. 100% of the proceeds from the sale of this book go to the Maryland SPCA or other shelters.
A Face of Prozac is about my journey through eating disorders, anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder which is like PMS x a billion. No one diagnosed me for years with PMDD. I finally snapped and was looking for an inpatient program for myself at a local mental hospital. WebMD popped up with a questionnaire, and lo and behold, I diagnosed myself and found a terrific psychiatrist. For all of my diagnoses and issues, Prozac was the only thing that saved me (and continues to) from myself.
Becoming Waldo is a book about my new dog that I adopted from the SPCA. He seemed so laid back and comfortable with himself. I thought I could be a better person if I became more like my dog. As it turns out, Waldo and I are more alike than we ever would have guessed. 100% of the proceeds from the sale of this book go to the Maryland SPCA or other shelters.

10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
My website and blog are a work in progress; so for right now, use my email address: jacimac618@aol.com and put that you are interested in my book in the subject matter. Alternatively, I am on facebook, but I have no idea what the address is.

Baking Cookies With Sierra

My Daughter-in-law, Aimee, lets me know the cute things that my grandchildren do and say. (They are her and Stephen's children but that isn't the important part.) Not long ago 4 yr old Sierra was baking cookies with her Grandma Baker, (Yes, there is another Grandma. I will deal with it. ha ha) Sierra told her other grandma Baker that Grandmalaine stirs up good cookies and lets her use a knife. (?)
Okay...I use slice and bake cookies for the grandkids. When I stirred up cookies from scratch, the kids got bored so I buy a good tasting short cut. I promise I didn't let the baby have a knife. She saw me cut them with a knife. I think she got confused. That's my story and I'm stickin' to it.

Please read this interview with new author, D.G. Flamand

1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
My author name is D. G. Flamand

2. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I was 7 years old when I wrote my first short story. I realized then that I would like to do that full time. I submitted my first stories to a publishing house when I was 19 but that didn't go anywhere. Nonetheless, I kept writing for many years afterwards. I also became a fanatic of the game of chess and I played the game of chess at least 2,000 times. While playing the game of chess, my writings improved drastically. I conceived new ideas, new characters, new plots, and new stories. Today I'm brimming of ideas and projects to write. I'm 50 today.

3. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I think I can conceive interesting new characters, plots, story lines, and stories.

4. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I have several writing projects that I'm working on. One series is called - Tommy and the Magic Dictionary Series. This is a series of books I will be writing. It is about a six-year old boy named Tommy. Tommy wants to learn everything and he envies grownups because they know so much. Then Tommy receives a dictionary for his sixth birthday from his grandpa. No one knew that it was a magic dictionary. His father placed the dictionary on his dresser in his bedroom when Tommy went to bed. But that night Tommy couldn't sleep. While staring at the ceiling when in his bed, Tommy spoke into the empty room. And without realizing it, he uttered the magic secret that brought the magic dictionary back to life! The Magic Dictionary contains all knowledge that exist and he wants to share his knowledge with everyone. Tommy wants to learn everything and right now! So Tommy and the Magic Dictionary become best friends. From that point on, every day the Magic Dictionary teaches new things to Tommy. The title of the first book is - Tommy and the Butterflies. So the Magic Dictionary teaches Tommy about butterflies. The second book of this series starts production in a few days - beginning of October. I have 5 manuscripts fully written and ready for publication and 8 others in progress. I will be writing numerous book for this series. This series is for juvenile but anyone would like to read this series. It is full of magic, new magic, new characters, new plots, and new stories. There is no destruction of any kind in my books. And they are very positive and kids will learn new things. The first book of my second series will be completed in about 6 weeks from now. The title of this series is - The Little Cloud Series. The title of the first book is - The Little Cloud and his New Friends. This series is about the smallest cloud in the sky who is being told by all the bigger clouds to be careful because there are big winds in the sky. The Little Cloud reassures all the big clouds that there are no worries that he can float in all kind of winds. But one day a big wind pushed the Little Cloud and the Little Cloud lost control of his floating. The Little Cloud was pushed down to earth near Tiny Town. And it is there that the Little Cloud met the kids of Tiny Town and they became friends. The Little Cloud promised all the kids that he will come visit them every day. From that point on the Little Cloud goes down to earth and plays with his friends of Tiny Town. I have 10 manuscripts fully completed for this series and ready for publication. I will right many books for his series - not as many as the Tommy and the Magic Dictionary Series but I will write at least 25 stories. This series is for children. I have submitted 4 more manuscripts to Tate Publishing of another series. That series too I will write about 25 stories. I will hear back soon on this submission and it is for children as well. I have other series for children in planning. I also have two novels in progress for grown-ups. One book I wrote about 500 pages so far and it will have about 700 pages when completed. The other book I wrote about 200pages so far.


5. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.


Readers can buy my books from Tate Publishing. I do not have a website at this time.

It is great to get to know the writers. If you missed one of the past interviews of the talented authors I have been interviewing be sure to visit my blog and catch up. These was interesting people!

Review of Super Sticks by Lisa Newkirk

I remember being in the lunchroom in elementary school when a girl came into the room who was in a wheelchair. Somehow, I couldn't get past the wheelchair. Lisa Newkirk's book shows Deborah, a girl with Spina Bifida, as a super hero with her crutches. I think this book will lead children to know that even if someone has to use a wheelchair, crutches, or even a white cane, they can still be a fun friend to have. Thank you, Lisa, for filling this need.

Tommy and the Butterflies, D.G. Flamand

D.G.Flamand's first book in the Tommy and the Magic Dictionary Series is Tommy and the Butterflies. I was expecting a typical darling children's book but it is so much more than that. Within the 95 pages of the book, children and adults have opportunities for learning facts about butterflies of the world and sparking their imagination with the fun packed into the storyline. The illustrations are wonderful and the feel and look of the book is splendid.The premise of the book opens up many opportunities for more learning experiences and fun. I look forward to reading more of Mr. Flamand's work in the future. My grandkids are going to love this and my husband will too!

Cloudy Days

Cloudy Days
In the 70's I loved The Carpenters. One of their hits was "Rainy Days and Mondays Always Get Me Down". It starts with the words: (If I can remember them) "Talkin' to myself and feelin' old. Sometimes I'd like to quit. Nothing even seem to fit. Hanging around nothin' to do but frown. Rainy days and Mondays always get me down."
Hmmmmmmmmmmmm that is upsetting. That seems to describe me. What with the talking to myself, feeling old, hanging around, frowning, rainy days, Mondays....Oh no!!!
Well, we are going from Fall to Winter...I better get used to it.


Please read this interview with new author, Delaine Swardstrom.



1. What is your name and the title of your book?
My name is Delaine Swardstrom and my book is THE PHOTOGRAPH

2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about your?
The one thing that always captures everyone's attention is this - I spent twenty-five years in jail...................................
working as a nurse! I'm a registered nurse and I began working in the county jail in Olathe, Kansas in 1974. The first three years of those twenty-five I was a sheriff's deputy as well as a nurse. So as a deputy I attended the Police Academy where I earned the highest score on the shooting range when I qualified with the final day at the range!

3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I think it started when I was in the Police Academy. We had a writing course which was supposed to help us in writing our police reports. The instructor had us do some descriptive writing and I surprised even myself with some of the things I wrote. I believe this is when I actually began thinking that I could write - and enjoyed it. However as I look back at some of the first stories I wrote I'm surprised that I've come this far.

4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
When I was going through the editing process with my book my editor told me more than once that "you're so good with description". So I think this is one of my strong points.

5. Are you a reader?YES,YES,YES!!!! I would read twenty-four hours a day if I could. I love to read. In fact, I'm sorry to say that I have let it keep me from getting my housework done on several occasions.

6. What are you reading right now?
At the present I'm not reading anything. My husband and I are trying to get some building and landscape projects done before winter sets in so I haven't found time to read anything for a while. I did read "First We Have Coffee" by Margret Jensen a couple of weeks ago, sneaking it in between outdoor projects.

7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication?
I do have a couple. I have another book that is basically ready to send to a publisher. It's about a young couple who found themselves becoming intimate in spite of the fact that they were both Christians. When she found herself pregnant he insisted she have an abortion. After the deed had been done they both regretted the decision they had made. The story describes the pain-filled days following and the difficult time she had in forgiving him for insisting she have the abortion. It's a fairly emotional book.I'm also working on a sequel to The Photograph after so many of my readers asked if there would be one. It isn't coming along as well as I would like.

8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
Like most people, time seems to be the biggest problem. Also a husband who keeps wanting me to help him with something when I get an idea flowing!! :) I also come up with a lot of good ideas when I'm supposed to be sleeping so I often just get out of bed and go to my computer. I know if I don't get it down while it's flowing in my head it will be lost by morning. Also, I'm likely to stay awake for hours developing the idea instead of sleeping if I don't go get it in the computer.

9. Please put a description of each of your books here.
Jennifer Mast has been forced to leave college after the untimely death of her parents to take over her father's successful picture framing shop in the small tourist town of Pine Bluff. The reputation of the frame shop, The Master's Shop, encourages Jennifer to keep up the family name and tradition. Despite missing her family she throws herself into her work, perfecting the matting and framing techniques her father taught her years earlier. Preparing for the tourist season leaves her little time to grieve or relax. When a new photographer in town, Brent Hamblin, walks in the first day she has reopened her shop after the death of her father, she can't believe how he impresses her. He notices the framed picture of a small cabin on the wall and Jennifer explains that it is the home where her great-grandfather lived. She goes there often to soak up the atmosphere of the old homestead up in the hills of the Smoky Mountains. Brent is eager to find out about Jennifer's ancestors and she shares the godly heritage handed down to her through the generations. Discovering that Brent does not share her Christian beliefs she wonders if she should continue keeping company with him. When the picture of the cabin comes up missing Jennifer wonders if she should have been so trusting of this man who wandered into her shop and insists on keeping company with her.The rest of the story you will have to read for yourself if you want to find out what happens. Some very unexpected things happen in the book and you might be pleasantly surprised as you read. There is some intrigue, some romance, and parts of the story tug at your emotions. If this is your kind of story then I know you will like The Photograph.

10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books?Check out my website - www.dswardstrom.com. The book is available through Tate Publishing, Amazon, Barnes & Nobel and Borders. If you have questions or comments you can contact me at deesbook@rap.midco.net.


This was a great interview. If you missed one of the past interviews of the talented authors I have been interviewing be sure to visit my blog and catch up. These was interesting people!

http://nansjourney.blogspot.com

See you next week. I hope you enjoyed this.

Holding Hands

Holding Hands
I love the Scripture in Isaiah 41:13 that says that God will hold my hand. There have been many times in my life that I have needed Him to do just that. A lot of times I think God held my hand by using people who are near to hold me so that I can feel tangible support. My husband, mom, dad, sisters, brothers, kids, and friends have all extended that hand at various times in my life.

There are also people that I didn't know all that well at the time who have extended a hand of friendship and comfort to me. One person is my new friend that I see most weekday mornings at the post office. She makes the place shine while I go in and get my mail. It had been a few days since she had seen me and she had grown concerned. When I walked through the door, she put down her cleaning rag and put her arms around me. The tenderness and support from that gesture was priceless. Little did she know that I needed to feel the arms of God around me at that time.

There are also those who reach out to me with tender words in emails or cards. Those words literally feel like arms around my heart. They encourage me and tell me that I can do whatever I need to do and that they appreciate the things I have already done. You can't bottle stuff like that up for resale. That is a gift.

If you knew me when I was a kid through high school you would know a different person than the person I am today. I was afraid of everything. I was shy and wanted to pretty much be invisible. I could laugh and talk with close friends but meeting new people was a challenge. Now meeting new people is most of what I do! God has a sense of humor alright. I urge all of us to reach out and be the hands and arms of God to those around us.

Please read this interview with new author, Ren Royal. When I read it I was moved to tears. Her book sounds unbelievable.





1. What is your name and the title of your book?
Ren R. Royal – “Lost Faith to Living Faith”

2. What is one thing you think your readers would
like to know about you?
A bit of personal info: Author Ren R. Royal was a starving orphan from Seoul, Korea, was adopted into a Lutheran preacher’s family, and came to America, where she became a naturalized citizen. Ren pursues her passion for writing and poetry with the support of her church and family. Ren and her husband, Charlie, reside in Garland, Texas. Ren’s husband is a retired Detective with the Dallas Police, and has been awaiting his 2 retirement while working as Sr. Investigator with the State Bar of Texas. Ren is a full-time legal secretary, plus Author, is an Assisting Minster (or also called lay asst.) at her home church, Resurrection Lutheran, enjoys interior decorating, and helping others wherever possible.

3. When did you know that you wanted to become
a writer?
I have written all of my life, as a way of coping and because it was the only way I could
communicate with others. Writing just came
naturally. Adopted and became a naturalized
citizen of the United States, I experienced
racial prejudice and had no friends until the
age of 30. I had become so withdrawn from
life and society. Unable to break down the
walls and barriers within and around, writing
seemed to be the only thing to break down
those walls and barriers. I never even
imagined that I would have a book published.
Encouraged by others in my church, I started
writing and did not stop. I never really
thought of my writing as something good
enough to be accepted by a publisher due to
my education. I only submitted my manuscript
because I thought it would good for me to
receive rejection. However, instead of being
rejected, my manuscript was accepted to my
surprise. That was God’s way of telling me I
need to have this book published that it may
make a difference in the life of another. I had
dreamed of having a book published but I never thought it would be possible, and when I was not even trying, it happened. I feel very blessed to have this opportunity since only 4% of manuscripts are accepted.
Prayer:
Almighty God,
May the tears of pain and suffering throughout the world become
floods of peace in your holy embrace. May the tears of sorrow become tears of love. May the tears of the world become rivers of your overflowing grace, continually touching one soul after another.
In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

There are many in the world whose tears are left unseen and I hope that my voice can make a difference in those tears. I once was a woman who prayed for years to die, and my prayers have changed drastically. I thank God and embrace life now. My prayers are for the hopeless, the lost, the hurting, the suffering, the victims, those who have found some reason to stop attending church and believe in God, for PK’s who stopped attending church, for those who have been through hunger, homeless, cancer, and illnesses, physical,mental or spiritually.

4. What are your strong points in your writing style
or methods?
People seem to enjoy my poetry. Sometimes I
find poetry alone too boring, and my mix of prose and poetry flow together and that is what I have found people to like the most.

5. Are you a reader?
No

6. What are you reading right now?
It is amazing that I am a writer, because I don’t read very many books. At the library, I would rather look at pictures than sit down and read.

7. Do you have another book that you are working on
and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
Yes. I have written a second book titled, “Lost
Faith to Living Faith, Part II” It has been
submitted and accepted by Tate Publishing.
I am just awaiting the funds to put this book
into action and see how my first book does.
I believe if it is God’s will for this second book
to happen, then it will. It is just a matter of time and patience. In my 2 book, I want to go into a deeper faith, touching those who were raised with the faith, but left. This will include poetic reflections/prayers/stories of lives changed and transformed by God’s love, that faith is alive through Jesus Christ, our Lord. My first book revolved mostly about how I changed, but my 2 book will be more as a devotional with poetry, prose, poetic prayers, that others may too find or come back to the Lord! He does not leave us, we leave Him.

8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and
how do you overcome them?
My biggest obstacle is that I am not near as
educated as many other writers. I do not
have a college degree. I wasamazed that my book was accepted and not having that
amount of education is no longer a stumbling block to accomplishing one’s dreams.
I never thought it was possible to write a book. I only thought lawyers, doctors, preachers, etc. could write books. We all have stories of our lives, dreams, and aspirations within us, and with faith all things are possible! I am not a highly educated woman and I hope that this book inspires others in the world that regardless of education; if we can love, we can aspire, and if we can live, we can take action! I hope this will inspire other women to listen to their inner hearts – that they too have something to give to the world! They too can find their voice, whether a voice of writing, through music, through art, or whatever one’s talent, we women don’t have to aspire, we can inspire.

9. Please put a description of each of your books
here.
Have you been lost or hopeless and wanted to give up in life? Lost Faith to Living Faith is the true story of how Ren R. Royal overcame her struggles through loss, prejudice, rape, abuse, and depression by placing her faith in the God who is able to heal and restore. This is the inspiring story of Ren’s transformation from hopelessness into a life full of love and joy as she went from Lost Faith to Living Faith. This inspirational and uplifting testimony is for anyone who feels hopeless or has lost faith. See how God’s grace and love can take the most tragic of stories and turn them into something more precious than gold.

“It is so difficult for any of us to realize what it is like to be a person without a family and a home. The author has been there, and she tells both the good and the bad in such a way that makes it difficult to put the book down. Every person, young and old, will discover tremendous insights that will benefit them throughout all of life. Lost Faith to Living Faith is a must read for all.”
Pastor Donald C. Ofsdahl

There are books on people who have lived lives of faith throughout their lives. There are books on atheists or agnostics who have come to believe. How about those who were raised with the faith but lost faith? This is a reality in the world today. Millions and millions of people struggle with faith every day in the world, even preacher’s kids.
Many of us feel as if we are drowning in the sins of the world and we don’t even feel worthy of being saved. Have you known such hopelessness? This is not just about a lost faith, but rather, the faith I found. It is my story of finding hope in the midst of hopelessness, of finding faith while being faithless, of finding joy in the midst of sorrow, of finding meaning in love when nothing seems to have meaning in life. This is not a self-help book nor does it contain all the answers. Ultimately, this is a tale of hope.

10. How can readers contact you or purchase
your books? Please put your website or blog here.
http://www.tatepublishing.com/
bookstore/search.php?search=Lost+Faith+to+Living+Faith
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=565962532#/profile.php?id=100000177425583&ref=profile or look up facebook Ren Royal, and ask to be my friend.

Tired of the Same Ole Bible Study Type Books.

Tired of The Same Ole Bible Study Type Books?, October 12, 2009
By
Elaine Littau "author of Nan's Journey and El... (Texas Panhandle) - See all my reviewsAre you tired of the "same ole" type Bible Study books? I know I am. I have read a boat load of them. When I picked up this book to look at I wondered what it had that was different than all the other books in this genre that I have read. For one thing, Lysa Terkeurst and her book, Becoming More Than a Good Bible Study Girl, gives a fresh look at approaching a close relationship with God. It was refreshing to see that someone else was tired of the "spiritual check list/to do list" of being a "good Christian". Lysa opens her life up in ways that show the reader that hunger for God does not require a perfect life or perfect actions in order for God to fold you close to His heart. The tone is open. For example, a few of the chapter titles say it all: "But I Want What She Has", "Beyond Sunday Morning", "When I Feel That I Don't Measure Up"... These are real feelings that most of us have felt. You will not be sorry you read this book. It will cause you to look at your motives and your life in ways that most devotional books don't. Lysa, I would like to thank you for everything you have put into this work. God bless you. Elaine Littau author of Nan's Journey & Elk's Resolve

The Sound of Sleigh Bells by Cindy Woodsmall

“The Sound of Sleigh Bells” by Cindy Woodsmall, New York Times Best-Selling Author of “When the Soul Mends” is an Amish tale of love and inspiration. Maybe the reason I enjoy the Amish stories is that I am drawn to the old-time stories of the 1800s. It seems to be a close fit. The only thing is that I find myself having the same struggles with the setting as I did in childhood when I watched episodes of my beloved Roy Rogers when he and Dale rode up on their beautiful horses only to be met by the bad guys in a car. Maybe that is because I live in a part of the country where Amish communities do not live. I am not saying that I don’t respect their devotion. I do. It is just not something that I am accustomed to.
Cindy Woodsmall tells a great story that drew me in and held my attention. In fact, I had to make myself stop reading in the wee hours of the morning. It takes a good book to do that. The characters were believable and loveable. I was invested in them and how things turned out for them. I recommend this book. You can get this at http://www.randomhouse.com/catalog/display.pperl?isbn=9780307446534
Elaine Littau, author of “Nan’s Journey” and “Elk’s Resolve”

Face Book Tate Authors Group

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

Face Book Tate Authors Group
A few weeks ago I started a group on Face book for the authors of Tate Publishing and Enterprises. From doing the interviews with authors on this newsletter I have learned a little about each one of them who have contacted me about doing an interview. It started out with an email plea from me to them. Thank goodness most of them have wanted to share their vision for their books with me here.Honestly, if you are interested in having your interview here, just go to my website and contact me. http://elainelittau.com I will email you the questions and schedule your interview. (clean books only)

If you are a book lover and not an author...yet, give us unknown authors a try. There are some very good books out there by people who are not house-hold names...yet. Tate does have a few authors who have movie contracts so it can happen.

This week I am interviewing Craig Gleerup:
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
My name is Craig Gleerup and I authored the book, “The Type of Marriage that Endures.”

2. What is the one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
Most people want to know how long I have been married. I guess they want to make sure I have enough experience to be able to write about a successful marriage. They can relax, I have been married for over 25 years. I am still passionately in love with my wife and we act as if we are still newlyweds.

3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I don’t know if I can pinpoint a time when I knew. I still struggle to call myself an author. I was never good in English classes in school and still struggle with diagramming sentences. It would have to be a God-thing for me to write. My dream is to write fiction as opposed to non-fiction. However, I will have to work on my creative writing skills to get that one down.

4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I work to make my book conversational in style. The topic I write about can be a little academic, but if I write it that way I will lose readers. So I work hard at making the book come across more conversational by using stories to illustrate points. I have always been called a storyteller.

5. Are you a reader?
Yes, most definitely! I have a mini library at home. I am running out of shelf space, but that won’t stop me. I generally read fiction. I seem to learn more from fiction than non-fiction. For example, I’ve learned more history from Jack Cavanaugh’s books than from text books.

6. What are you reading right now?
I just finished a Terri Blackstock novel. She’s one of my favorite authors. I am reading Road to Nowhere by Paul Robertson and Relentless by Robin Parrish.

7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn’t been submitted for publication?Actually, I am working on a couple of books for the Christian market. They are taking subjects that we have let church tradition get in the way of truly understanding God’s purpose and plan.

8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
Time in 2 different ways. One is just finding the time to write when life keeps getting in the way. The other is the amount of time actually spent on the book. I have to confess that after a while I begin to get tired of the book. After you spend so much time with the book and you have to keep reading it for each rewrite, it gets monotonous for me.

9. Please put a description of each of your books here.
I currently only have the one book and it’s best if I just give you the description from the Tate website. "The Type of Marriage that Endures will open up new avenues of insight on your spouse, as well as yourself. Based on the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, Craig Gleerup will guide you to understanding the wonderful gift of personality that God has given each of us. You will also develop the knowledge to understand God's gift of your spouse to a whole new level. Armed with this knowledge, The Type of Marriage that Endures will help you develop strategies that will build the type of marriage that endures a lifetime of challenges and leaves a legacy of love for our children to carry on."

10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books?
They can purchase them through Tate and any online bookseller. They can also order them through any bookstore. Currently, many LifeWay stores have copies on the shelf. One of the cheapest ways to purchase is Christian Book Distributors. They have it listed for $3.00 off the list price. Here is the link: http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/product?item_no=67836&item_code=WW&netp_id=486237&event=ESRCN&view=covers

Extraordinary by John Bevere

“Extraordinary- The Life You’re Meant to Live” by John Bevere, Best-Selling author of “The Bait of Satan” is about pursuing life above mediocrity. In this book Bevere says that greatness is within our grasp. The past few study books I have read are along those lines. I wondered if “there was anything new under the sun” when I sat down to read this book. Of course, a lot of the content has been said by many in many ways but if you are like me, it takes a lot of repetition to get a concept caught between the ears. Most of the time deeper thoughts seem to breeze through easily but this book built on the lessons of life that I have been struggling to learn and make part of my thinking.
The point I want to share with you is one that smacked me between the eyes…or should I say ears. He said that being extraordinary is not just for the very talented people in athletics, acting, and other high profile arenas of life. It is for the hairdresser, mother, businessman, trucker, secretary and all other walks of life too. He reminded me that the Christians of the New Testament were so amazing that one of their biggest problems was to keep other people from worshiping them as if they were superheroes. Let’s face it most of us Christians don’t have that problem.
“Extraordinary” will cause evaluation in motives, devotion, and trust in God. It is worth the time to read. You can get a copy at http://randomhouse.com.
Elaine Littau, author of “Nan’s Journey” and “Elk’s Resolve”
http://nansjourney.blogspot.com

Scheduling

The past few weeks I have been hitting the marketing trail hard and scheduling events for the Fall season.However, the best events are the ones that occur when a coordinator of an event phones me and sets it up. I love that. No begging...no pleading...no sweating and getting up the nerve to call...I move heaven and earth to do those events.

Honestly, if you have need of someone to do a program for you group or company, I can do it. My needs are simple: I need to be able to have my books available for sale. That is it. Give me a call or contact me on my web page. http://elainelittau.com


This week I am interviewing Joy Bowser.



1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
Joy Bowser - A Wife and a Witness

2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
That I am a real person with real problems and real struggles.

3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
Not sure, it just kind of happened.

4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I write like I talk. I'm straightforward and terribly honest, be it good or bad.

5. Are you a reader?
Yes!

6. What are you reading right now?
I like Inspirational Romances and I love history also.

7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication?Tell about it.
I'd like my next book to be A Mom and A Mentor but I'm still living that one!

8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them? Time and study!

9. Please put a description of each of your books here.
But in all things we overwhelmingly conquer through him that loved us. Romans 8:37
Because she fell in love, Joy Bowser chose to marry a man who was not a Christian, and in the uplifting A Wife and a Witness, she provides insight for other Christian wives who face the same challenge. A Wife and a Witness is the story of one couple’s struggle to follow Christ together. Join Christian author Joy Bowser as she fearlessly shares her marital experiences in order that readers might be encouraged and inspired by her candid vulnerability. Whether you are a Christian whose husband isn’t a believer, or a wife desiring to improve your relationship with your spouse this book is for you! A Wife and a Witness outlines specific Biblical concepts to help build a stronger marriage especially if your spouse is not saved, and profound insight into what is necessary to keep your trust in the Lord, allowing him to work in your day- to- day life and in your home.


Joy Bowser is a Sunday school teacher, wife, mother and grandmother. Joy lives in Liberty Center, Ohio, with her husband, Bill. Bill and Joy have raised three daughters together. Joy has been a Brownie leader, softball coach, genealogy volunteer, and president of various organizations.

10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here. http://www.myspace.com/490969833

Thank you Joy. This was a great interview. If you missed one of the past interviews of the talented authors I have been interviewing be sure to visit my blog and catch up. These was interesting people!

I always fall in love in the Fall.
Thirty-five years ago I left my little house in my little Texas panhandle town and went to a little Bible College. The year was 1974. I drove to one of my good friend's house and picked her up along with her stuff and we headed to Baxter Springs, Kansas to the Apostolic Faith Bible College. We were very excited to be all grown up and on our own. When we registered we realized that we were in different dorms but we made the best of it.

I carried a basket full of her stuff to her dorm and the heel of my shoe got caught in a massive crack on the sidewalk. I fell with a great flourish of stuff and basket. Looking up to see if my grace was noticed by anyone, I saw Terry Littau sitting on the hood of his car with a very pretty girl named Priscilla. Boy was I embarrassed. They didn't say a word.

Picking myself up and realizing that my knee was scraped and bleeding, I smiled weakly and said, "I believe I met you last month at Camp meeting didn't I?"
Terry responded. "I don't remember you."
Can you imagine how I felt? "Oh well, I think school is going to be fun. See y'all later."

I went to my dorm room and swore I would never come out again. That is until I met a really sweet girl named Elva Lu. She told me to call her Lulu. She had the confidence that I lacked and we spent the rest of the month laughing the day away. The next month she had to go home to Hempstead, TX because she was ill. I will never forget her. I missed her like crazy.

Back to Terry...His memory got better. He took me out a couple of times and then asked me to marry him. Six months later we were married. Every year when the weather changes and the mornings air is brisk and sweet, I think of falling for my true love. Going to Bible College was one of the best things that ever happened to me.

Since we have been married Terry has learned that whenever there is an opportunity for someone to fall, that would usually be me. He declared that I am accident prone...He is right. I fell for him in the fall.

This week I am interviewing Angela Harris.

1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
Dance in the Rain: His Joy Comes in the Mourning
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
Its hard to pick one. I have a very fun and blessed life. I'm a twin. My best friend and I have known each other since kindergarten. My 12 yr old son has already scuba dived with sharks, and my 14 yr old daughter is in training to be a professional ballet dancer.

3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I don't know if there was ever a specific time. I've always loved writing. It became a dream to be published in 1998 after this book began pouring out of my heart.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I write from my heart. I'm not afraid to deal with hard topics or situations, in fact, they fuel me to dig deeper.
5. Are you a reader?
I read in phases. A lot or not at all. The Bible, always.
6. What are you reading right now?
Home school curriculum honestly. My husband and I home school, so I've been gearing up for the year. Have read some of my son's 7th grade required novel over the summer as a refresher.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I think every author has another book, we all have stories to tell. I am working on a novel, another bible study, and a book looking at specific behavior/belief trends in church attending men and women.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
Time. Also, I get bored and easily distracted. I haven't decided if working on more than one project is helpful or not. It helps with variety for sure but other than that, the jury is still out. I write a lot at night, when I should be sleeping, but it's when ideas flow. I try just to embrace it as it comes. I have a tape recorder by my bed because without fail as soon as I lay my head down, there is always a thought.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here.
Have you lost someone significant in your life?
Do you feel swallowed up by sorrow?
Are you trying to find the purpose and plan for your life so you can move forward?
Where is God now?
Why did He allow this to happen?
What if the person I love is not in heaven?

So many painful thoughts surround those hurting from a loss. Those in the midst of such pan-come. Journey with author Angela A Dockter-Harris as she guides you through the healing process.This book is a two part book. Part one is a journal which can be personalized to each loss or situation. Includes journal sections for: spouse, child, (infant, miscarriage, stillborn, toddler, or adult), grandparent, parent, sibling, friend.
Also includes a very special section for someone facing death--such as a terminal illness or perhaps a military member facing deployment and unsure of the future. A person can fill out this journal section as a gift to leave for a loved one.

The second half of the book is a bible study. The bible study looks in-depth at sorrow and suffering, anger, acceptance, making amends, letting go, finding purpose, discovering a personal story from the pain and moving forward. Discusses how to find God in the midst of such pain. The bible study also addresses concerns for people who believe in heaven and the concern of dealing with uncertainty of a loved ones eternal decision. This book focuses on making amends, so it can be used in the loss of strained or broken relationships, not just death. This book can be filled out and used/given as a gift, not just after death of a loved one, but to help in the death and dying process to bring open communication and healing. Great for mature teens (with adult guidance recommended) up through adult. Good tool for counselor, lay people, pastors, etc. You can experience hope and healing during mourning.

10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
I haven't been blogging for long-- and I write on a variety of topics that are different pieces of who I am. It surprises a lot of people who know just a specific part of me, but those who know me know that I'm all over the map so to speak. I've actually blogged very little about the book, which I even find ironic. angelaadockterharris.wordpress.com My book is available through Tate Publishing, Amazon, Barnes and Noble. etc....

Authors and Other Stuff

Mikey, my son, called and told us that he and Cari had been talking to Maci, our 2 yr old granddaughter. It went like this:
"Maci, do you know that you have a middle name?"
"No"
"Your name is Maci Hope."
"Maci ope?"
"Yes, Maci Hope Littau"
"Maci ope itta?"
They then had lunch the next day and Cari was sitting there. Mikey said to Maci,
"Maci, do you remember your whole name?"
"Maci ope itta." She declared.
Mikey said, "Yes, I am a Littau, Mommy is a Littau, Mee Mee and Pea Paw are Littau."
"OOOOOOh"
Cari said, "Mam ma and Paw paw are not Littau, they are Warren."
Maci grabbed her by the face. One palm on each cheek and said, "That's too much!"
I hope you are enjoying getting to know about the authors I have been interviewing. These people are inspiring to me.


I have "met" most of them through facebook and the Tate Publishing fan page. This week I am interviewing Esther LoPresto

1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
My name is Esther LoPresto and my book is “Where’s My Other Sock?”

2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I am usually a quiet person, but I can be very random. In addition to being a writer, I am a dancer, and a flutist. I graduated in 2007 and I am in community college working on my associate’s degree in accounting. With all these things going on, writing is a great stress reliever.

3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
Well, I have always enjoyed making up stories since I was about three years old. As time went on and others encouraged my writing, I dreamed of seeing my works published. In high school, I found that I liked accounting and decided to major in it in college. During my second year, I had a professor that made the concepts so difficult that I became discouraged. With only one class remaining for my degree, I plan to finish it, but the contract from Tate has encouraged me to write more than ever. I hope to write as long as the ideas come and as the King’s scribe, my only hope is to write the words He wants to be read.

4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?Much like the filming of a movie, I write out of sequence. Usually, I see an interesting scene in my head and start from there, molding the story around that point no matter where it winds up in the finished product. I’m also pretty picky about proper grammar and punctuation, etc. It bothers my friends, but editors seem to like it.

5. Are you a reader?
I think I love reading more than writing! My favorite categories would be fantasy and mystery, but I’ve been getting a little bit into thrillers too. Anything that puts me on the edge of my seat, or makes me think (or both) will find its way to my shelves.

6. What are you reading right now?At the moment, I’m in the middle of a Brandilyn Collins mystery.

7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I’m constantly making notes on various ideas that might make a good story and I have several works in progress. To explain them would take awhile and I’m pretty private about them until I feel I need an outside opinion. After awhile, you may notice that I use “legends” quite frequently in reference to myself or my stories. This is my biggest project. It is an allegorical fantasy trilogy about life’s trials and faith in the One True King..

8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
Motivation and time. Ideas come to me at very obscure times: right before falling asleep; walking through a store; in the shower; while reading another book; listening to music, just to name a few. Also, in my last year as a teenager, I find myself using every excuse possible to procrastinate. Then, when I finally do sit down to write, and I get stuck, I feel like giving up. That’s where I am with my next story: stuck and not sure how to continue. But once that obstacle is defeated, I find out where the story is taking me and have a lot of fun with it.

9. Please put a description of each of your books here.
Two socks go into the washer, only one comes out of the dryer... Tori never could have imagined the cause of her missing socks. But one day, after finishing a load of laundry, she started hearing voices in the basement. The voices discussed stealing her family's socks! She knew she had to get to the bottom of this mystery. After her brother calls her crazy, Tori recruits the help of her friends, Sally and Suzie. Together, they learn of secret alliances and sinister plots taking place literally under their feet. The only way to uncover the truth is to send their faithful pets into an unknown world linked directly to the dryer. Join Tori and her friends on this journey to a strange place where they encounter the most unlikely creatures and ultimately answer the question “Where's my other sock?”

10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
My book is still in the publishing process, but when it becomes available, information will be on my blog. Readers can email legends149@gmail.com and my blog is Ramblings of a Random wRiter found at http://legendsofxenos.blogspot.com

p://www.facebook.com/pages/Esther-LoPresto/127908277538
Enjoy!

To see other author interviews go to
http://nansjourney.blogspot.com

See you next week. I hope you enjoyed this.

Busy Season Begins

This Saturday I have a book signing at Liberal, Kansas at the Hastings Book store. September 12 from 1-3 p.m.
Hastings stores are very active stores so this is going to be fun.
As you see I have a few things scheduled and I am really happy about the events. I will always try to squeeze in more though.

I am continuing with featuring Tate Publishing and Enterprise Authors. I have "met" most of them through facebook and the Tate Publishing fan page. In the following weeks you will have the opportunity so see the dedication and heart each person puts in their writing. This week I am interviewing Richard Nance and Rhonda Roth.

1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
Richard Nance and Rhonda Roth, The Hidden World Chronicles Book 1, Journey of the Chosen

2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
Who or what we are and where did this book come from

3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
About 1963. Only realized I had the time after retirement.

4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
Keeping the reader going from page one to the last. Getting the readers to relate to the characters. The books are
like watching a good movie that you don't want to end.

5. Are you a reader?
Have been for sixty years. Many good books out there.

6. What are you reading right now?
Fireproof, having a hard time finishing it.

7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
Yes The Dragon Princess, which is book three in our series.

8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
I'm sorry but it comes easy to me. Only time is my biggest problem. The biggest thing is to know where you are going but not let the reader know, only give vague hints.

9. Please put a description of each of your books here.
BACK OF BOOK:
Richard Nance with the help of his youngest daughter Rhonda Roth has created a whole new genre of fiction. This unique work, The Hidden World Chronicles Book 1, Journey of the Chosen takes you on a breathtaking ride through all the secret and covert centers of our world. When Dr. Charles Jennings and his co-worker, Sarah Parker uncover a strange discovery in an obscure temple in Tibet, they are instantly whisked away to a government facility where they are sure they will be tossed into prison. What they find is an operation kept secret for centuries. These secrets eventuallly lead Dr. Charles Jennings and Dr. Sarah Parketr, along with three others, to a hidden world that some believed to only exist in myth or spiritual realms. These adventures were made known in a journal left in the faithful hands of a man named Gavin Graham, who has been chosen by Charles to carry on a mysterious legacy begun years ago. Gavin was inexorably drawn in to the complications of an epic battle between good and evil simply by touching the hand of Charles when he was a child when Charles first returned from the Hidden World. With a dazzling incorporation of numerous genres and a challenging mystery to be solved, don't be surprised if at the end of this book you will ask yourself just what your part will be in the saga of The Hidden World Chronicles.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
Journey of the Chosen can be found at all major book sellers or on the internet at Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com, Target.com, Borders.com, or directly from the publisher at tatepublishing.com. Signed copies can be purched directly from me through our web site below.
... www.thehiddenworldchronicles.com ...
Enjoy the web site and send us an e-mail from there. Don't forget to turn up the sound, it adds drama to the site. or e-mail us directly at nancechronicles@aol.com .

The Presence of God

In Sunday School one morning we were studying about the Presence of God. Psalms 91 was the Scripture verse. I don't know about you but most of the time when I think of the Presence of God I think of a calm and sweet experience. When you read the 91st Psalm you realize that it is set in the location of a battlefield. He covers us with His wings. He is our shield and buckler. He protects us from the terror by night and the arrow that flies by day.
We know that God is everywhere, but usually when I am going through tough times I find myself saying something dumb like, "Where are You?" He is in the battle with you!

I am continuing with featuring Tate Publishing and Enterprise Authors. I have "met" most of them through facebook and the Tate Publishing fan page. In the following weeks you will have the opportunity so see the dedication and heart each person puts in their writing. This week I am interviewing Tanya Chippone.

1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
My name is Tanya M Chiappone and the title of my book is The ABC's of the B-I-B-L-E

2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I have a deep passion forchildren and even more so - I want children to have a deep desire and passion for Christ.

3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I have always enjoyed writing butnever really considered putting it to work. I have been called to writing children's books for many reasons - to glorify God and advance His Kingdom, and to advance my own knowledge and understanding of the Word I stand firm upon.

4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
HAHA - I rhyme everything.

5. Are you a reader?
I do read. I read my Bible all the time. I also enjoy "detectivestyle" books (true stories about murder cases and how they were solved). Kind of a weird spectrum but I find investigations interesting.

6. What are you reading right now?
I just finished Final Truth by Donald "PeeWee" Gaskins.

7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I actually have one book already completed and another in process. One is about the Creation and the other is about the Ten Commandments. They are both part of a series that will share similar titles. At this time, only God knows how many books will be apart of this series.

8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
My biggest obstacles have been being a single mom and working. I have also recently become engaged and have decided to relocate over 700 miles away. Packing and planning have also had to take priority over my writing.

9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
My first book (that will be hitting the shelves by November - I hope) is a walk through the Bible - Old and New Testament. It highlights different events, people, and places. It is also educational in that it teaches the alphabet from A to Z.

10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
Right now they can reach me by sending me an email to diamond_0526@yahoo.com and placing ABC's of the Bible in the subject line. If they provide me with their name and email address I will add them to my address book and provide updates to them once I am further along in the publishing process. Myfacebook fan page is http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/pages/Tanya-Chiappone-childrens-book-author/240610360103?ref=ts As of right now, I am not yet sure of where or how to purchase.

Qualified Speaker, elainelittau, Harvest Time First Assembly of God Church

Qualified Speaker, elainelittau, Harvest Time First Assembly of God Church

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God is So Good!

I have to admit that I have been less than excited about Book IV on the Series. It seemed to have a dead end. Today the story line came alive to me. I am really excited about the development of this book. Keep on praying for me.
I am continuing with featuring Tate Publishing and Enterprise Authors. I have "met" most of them through facebook and the Tate Publishing fan page. In the following weeks you will have the opportunity so see the dedication and heart each person puts in their writing. This week I am interviewing Dee Dee Wike.

1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)? My name is Dee Dee Wike and my book is titled Good to the Last Drop: Refreshing Inspiration for Homeschool Moms & Other Busy Women (Tate Publishing, release date TBA -- currently in production)
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you? Gosh, that's a hard question. They might like to know how I came to write the book in the first place, but it's not important that they know about me -- I want them to know about God.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer? Many years ago when, as a teen, I was hooked on Christian romance novels.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods? I write clearly, concisely, and with a great command of the English language. My high school English instruction at St. Mary's Episcopal School helped hone my writing skills.
5. Are you a reader? Now that I am an adult and a homeschool teacher, I read every chance I get. The older I get, the more I appreciate knowledge and learning. I hardly ever read fiction.
6. What are you reading right now? Besides the Bible, The Money Answer Book by Dave Ramsey. The last book I completed was Scott Hamilton's The Great Eight: How to Be Happy (Even When You Have Every Reason to be Miserable).
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it. It is an untitled book of devotions which I expect to have completed by this time next year. I am also working on a book for teens and pre-teens based on the mistakes I have made that I hope others can learn from and not repeat. This will be dedicated to my two children, with whom I have these conversations often.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them? Like most, finding the time to write is a great challenge. I have found that blogging has unleashed the creative juices that were waiting to be released for so long. When I write in small spurts, I can usually find time to write every day. I am eating the elephant one bite at a time.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok) In Good to the Last Drop, author Dee Dee Wike offers encouragement and insight to busy women as she shares her thoughts on the difficulties of finding peace amidst the chaos of everyday life, the adventure of stepping out in faith and obedience to God’s call, and the joy of a lifelong relationship with the Lord. Written from the heart, her reflections on relationships, homeschool, anxiety, and the relevant issues of modern-day living are seasoned with hope, humor, and truths from God’s Word. Good to the Last Dropwill encourage and inspire you to live confidently and joyfully as you pursue the dream God has placed in your heart.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here. www.deedeewike.com and www.deedeewike.blogspot.com.