Happy Valentine's Day everyone! In this season we find ourselves thinking about love. Some of us give it a fleeting thought while others of us contemplate the real meaning. Some thoughts may go along this line:
Am I missing out on 'real love'?
Does the one I love love me as much as I love him?
or her
Do I matter?
What is love, anyway?
In my opinion, to understand love, you have to get out of your own skin. The Bible has a whole passage about love. It talks about what love is and what it isn't. That passage is difficult for us to live up to, but it is the pattern we are to follow.
The pattern came from Jesus and His perfect love for us. He fullfilled all the points of the love chapter of the Bible.
It is a passage that is often read at weddings. While we stand at the altar making out vows to love and honor as long as we both shall live, the feelings are flowing and we don't think it will be difficult.
Then comes day to day life...
It is hard to put someone else first.
It is hard to believe all things...bear all things...think only the best of...
After all, we are just flesh and blood.
The longer I live, the more I realize that I can only love other people as the Lord God gives me ability. It is something that ebbs and flows in my own strength. I must depend on him.
The real meaning of love? God. God IS love. God help me love others as You have loved me.
I would like to introduce you to an author friend of mine names Linda Robinson. This is an interview I did with her and your will find it very interesting.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
Thank you, Elaine, for interviewing me. My name is Linda Robinson. I am the author of a published Christian novel, When Love Abounds.
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I love God, my life, my family, nature, animals, music, reading, and writing. (Sorry the list is so long. Maybe I should have just said, "I Love!")
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
About three years ago when I asked the Lord to reveal a talent he had given me that I wasn't using. He led me to write a story that depicts his love, protection, and provisions. By the time I finished the novel, I was completely hooked on writing. Just this month I retired from my outside job, and I plan to "write" out the rest of my life! :)
4 . What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I'm a modest person, but I guess I would have to say I can be descriptive (sometimes to a fault), so I love to paint pictures with words.
5. Are you a reader?
A resounding YES! I'm an AVID reader--since the day I began to learn how.
6. What are you reading right now?
I just finished Daddy's Little Girl, one of Mary Higgins Clark's earlier books, and I'm ready to start reading Love on Assignment by Cara Lynn James.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on, which hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
Yes, I'm writing a manuscript now, but it's only in the embryo stage--without a title.
I do, however, have another novel that just started the production process this month titled, The Longest Road Home, which will be available this summer. It is the second novel in what I refer to as my Love Abounds series.
It is not a sequel, but I took the character, Nathan, from the novel When Love Abounds, and let him lead the reader all over the continent in the historical '50's and '60's via various modes of transportation, as he searched for life's meaning and purpose.
It's filled with the twists and turns of Nathan's life--not just those in the roads.(The protagonist of the "embryo" manuscript I'm writing now is an "offspring" of Nathan's in The Longest Road Home.)
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
My biggest obstacle has to be that I work better and more productively alone, with no interruptions. That's hard to accomplish when you have a retired, wonderful, loving husband who loves to talk and eat a few good, home-cooked meals now and then! :)I often keep quite late hours in order to achieve my goals.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
When Love Abounds - Published 12/2010
When Love Abounds is a fictional novel set deep in the Heart of Dixie. Lou Ellen’s life as a wife, mother, and grandmother is filled with luxuries, comfort, and love. She should be happy.
So why is she left with indefinable feelings that something is left unfinished? In search of the key to her contentment, Lou Ellen sifts through memories of her past to uncover hidden and deeply painful events, as well as humorous and sweet moments. But can she find forgiveness, purpose, and fulfillment?
Her long journey back into her childhood in the historical '40's, '50s and '60's leads her to discover that When Love Abounds, there’s always hope for the future.
Coming soon (Summer 2012)
The Longest Road Home
Seventeen year old Nathan Hudson dreamed of escape. When he managed to do just that, to sneak out and hitch a ride to the next town, he vowed he’d never go home again.
All alone, with no money, no possessions, and barely an elementary level education, he set out on a lengthy journey that would take him back and forth across the continent time after time, as he searched for happiness.
As a runaway teen, hobo, migrant worker, and common laborer, he traveled the scenic miles, enjoying the view and excitement, yet secretly searching for contentment and unconditional love. Finally, irresponsibility, jealousy, and deep-seated, uncontrolled anger led him to lose the best thing that had ever happened to him.
Near destruction, he finally came to the end of himself—only to find that the answer to his purpose and peace had been within his grasp all along.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
http://whenloveabounds.tateauthor.com
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Thursday, February 9, 2012
The Classic Valentine Fight of 1975 & Interview with Amy Litzelman
Love is in the air...or not. It depends on how things look after Valentines Day. Am I right? In the past I have measured my happiness by how a sweetheart behaved toward me on this 'most important' holiday.
I have to tell you a funny story. While Terry and I were engaged, the society lady of our small town newspaper asked us to be the 'sweetheart' couple in the local interest section of the paper.
We were two weeks away from saying our vows and very strapped for money. (How many of you know that to a 19-yr-old girl, Valentines Day is much more important than silly old money?) Mrs. Mahood asked that we bring a Valentine Candy heart with us for the photo shoot.
I was intending to be sarcastic when I told Terry that we could use the old heart my ex-boyfriend had given to me some three years earlier. (Actually, I was hoping for a jealous reaction.) He said, "Great! That will save us some money!!!"
Can you believe that I fumed all the way to the newspaper office. I was ready to call off the wedding. (almost) I couldn't believe that he didn't understand the significance of the 'all important' Valentines box...but...he was thinking of our future.
We got through that photo shoot and managed to look like we were in love. (By the time I got through letting Terry know how I felt about his non-jealous moment, he was equally angry with me.) It was a very nice write up in the paper.
We have made it through 37 Valentine's Days. He has never forgotten to get a card or something sweet for Valentine's Day. He still isn't jealous of anyone. He is very secure in my love so he doesn't see the need. He is, after all, he is my Valentine.
I would like to introduce you to a new author friend of mine.
Amy Layne Litzelman
Christian Non-fiction, Devotional, Christian Life
This Beloved Road: A Journey of Revelation and Worship
http://AmyLayneLitzelman.com
1. How long have you been an author and when did the desire to write (the writing bug) bite?
This Beloved Road is my first book, but writing has been an important part of my life for as long as I can remember. I started out as a young girl filling stacks of journals, but soon expanded to newspaper work and earning a Journalism degree with a minor in English Education from the University of Wyoming. Growing up with a very gifted father also planted in me a deep-rooted love for music. Over the past 15 years I have written/composed over 75 songs and recorded four CDs. I started a blog in 2002 while leading a band and music ministry, and continue to share writings through that venue, as well as working on a second book and posting an occasional guest blog.
2. Why did you choose the genre you write in? Are there plans to write in another genre
My daily walk with the Holy Spirit is central to all of who I am and what I do. It constantly fills my heart, mind, and writing, so Christian non-fiction has become a natural outlet. I dabbled in fiction and children's literature when younger, so they may overlap with my writing again someday.
3. Please tell about each title here:
This Beloved Road is a snapshot of my pursuit to know God. To really know Him. It is about taking faith beyond believing that God is out there, somewhere, but not really involved too much in my life.
It records my ever-expanding realization that He is more powerful and magnificent than one could imagine, yet more personal than we could hope for. It is about recognizing His voice and believing His words.My goal is to stimulate the idea that a relationship with God is more than theology; it is a daily, growing friendship like all others – and yet so far above all others.
Can we know God? Yes, more intimately than imagined. We are meant to have a friendship full of laughter and tears, questions and answers, and like any relationship it takes time and effort over many years to cultivate. Through 80 essays and songs, I discuss numerous topics, including faith, trust, forgiveness, perseverance, peace, purpose, grace, and love.This book is not age, race, or location specific. Rather, it is for anyone with a spiritual longing.
It is intended to spark desire in those who don’t yet know Jesus, but hope that He is more than just religious duty. It is also for those who have a relationship with God, but long to go deeper in hearing His voice and understanding His ways.
This Beloved Road is also for the faithful for whom the journey deep into their Father’s heart has been long, and now need encouragement to persevere. This Beloved Road is meant to give a taste of the sweetness of God’s friendship and the vastness of His power.
My desire is that you, the reader, will be strengthened and encouraged. I want to share aspects of God that you may have never considered. I hope to open a window and let you see something that will motivate you to walk outside and experience it for yourself.
4. Do you do speaking engagements? Tell about your subject matter.
Yes, I have traveled across the United States and to the Philippines and China to lead worship and teach. Whether leading small groups in a home, training worship leaders and teams, or speaking in churches or at conferences, I love to share biblical truths that bring hope, wisdom, and freedom, and help us learn to see from God's perspective. My favorite topics center around knowing God and living a life of worship.
5. What has been your most rewarding experience as an author?
Three things come to mind: First, writing always takes me deeper in my relationship with God. It challenges me in ways I never could have imagined, but then encourages me to keep going. The process of writing and compiling This Beloved Road was no different. It opened doors to reveal much more beauty and truth about the One I believe in and made me hunger to go yet deeper in Him. This process never ceases to amaze me.
Second, I love that the Holy Spirit can take words on a page and use them to drastically change the lives of others for the better. I have received numerous letters and notes saying that specific pieces of my writing described exactly what that person had already experienced or needed to hear in order to continue on. I've also been leading a study using This Beloved Road for the last few months and am so blessed to see these ladies changing right before my eyes as they apply what they are learning. What an amazing God to put all of these pieces together.
Third, it is very rewarding, very encouraging, to be able to go back and re-read words that I wrote and have read dozens of times before and have them still minister truth and hope to me.
6. Where can your books be purchased?
Several purchasing links are listed on my website
(http://amylaynelitzelman.com/ ):
•signed copies
•eBook download
•Amazon
•Barnes & Noble
•Tate Publishing
Locally: Valley Bookstore and The Cottage Bookstore (Jackson, WY), and Barnes & Noble (Idaho Falls, ID).
Numerous other outlets can be found through Google.
7. How can readers reach you through twitter? through facebook? through your blog? through your website?
Facebook: http://facebook.com/AmyLitzelman
Website: http://AmyLayneLitzelman.com
Blog: http://AmyLayneLitzelman.com/blog
LinkedIn:
Goodreads:
8. We all know that writing can be a lonely occupation, what do your family and friends do to lift you up when you are down?
I have a wonderful family and am surrounded by very encouraging friends who pray for me and remind me that God uses this gift for His purposes in my own life and the lives of others. But mostly, my greatest encouragement and strength comes from the Holy Spirit, Himself. I have learned not to try to get from people what only God can give. He alone releases in us the flow of Life and fills us with the courage and ability we need to obey. Without a constant diet of His presence, my writing and my life become empty and weak.
9. What was your favorite toy as a child?
Most of my younger years were spent on a farm in Montana. Toys were limited, but our imaginations were free to run wild. My very favorite thing to do was build forts - in the woods, in a haystack, in a snowbank, in the bushes or garden - anywhere we could find. And to this day, I can't walk past the bushes in my yard or hike in the woods without thinking, "Oh, that would be a great fort!"
Books by Elaine Littau:
Some Happy Day is the first book in the series I have just begun writing. Rescued...A Series of Hope follows the Nan's Heritage Series. It is being released this month. For the whole month of February 2012, I am offering "Some Happy Day" for a lower price. After February, the price will go up.
Your book will be sent to you as soon as they arrive at my house.
I am selling all 5 of the books in the Nan's Journey Series:
Nan's Journey
Elk's Resolve
Luke's Legacy
The Eyes of a Stranger
Timothy's Home
Print versions for $55.
Love is in the air...or not. It depends on how things look after Valentines Day. Am I right? In the past I have measured my happiness by how a sweetheart behaved toward me on this 'most important' holiday.
I have to tell you a funny story. While Terry and I were engaged, the society lady of our small town newspaper asked us to be the 'sweetheart' couple in the local interest section of the paper.
We were two weeks away from saying our vows and very strapped for money. (How many of you know that to a 19-yr-old girl, Valentines Day is much more important than silly old money?) Mrs. Mahood asked that we bring a Valentine Candy heart with us for the photo shoot.
I was intending to be sarcastic when I told Terry that we could use the old heart my ex-boyfriend had given to me some three years earlier. (Actually, I was hoping for a jealous reaction.) He said, "Great! That will save us some money!!!"
Can you believe that I fumed all the way to the newspaper office. I was ready to call off the wedding. (almost) I couldn't believe that he didn't understand the significance of the 'all important' Valentines box...but...he was thinking of our future.
We got through that photo shoot and managed to look like we were in love. (By the time I got through letting Terry know how I felt about his non-jealous moment, he was equally angry with me.) It was a very nice write up in the paper.
We have made it through 37 Valentine's Days. He has never forgotten to get a card or something sweet for Valentine's Day. He still isn't jealous of anyone. He is very secure in my love so he doesn't see the need. He is, after all, he is my Valentine.
I would like to introduce you to a new author friend of mine.
Amy Layne Litzelman
Christian Non-fiction, Devotional, Christian Life
This Beloved Road: A Journey of Revelation and Worship
http://AmyLayneLitzelman.com
1. How long have you been an author and when did the desire to write (the writing bug) bite?
This Beloved Road is my first book, but writing has been an important part of my life for as long as I can remember. I started out as a young girl filling stacks of journals, but soon expanded to newspaper work and earning a Journalism degree with a minor in English Education from the University of Wyoming. Growing up with a very gifted father also planted in me a deep-rooted love for music. Over the past 15 years I have written/composed over 75 songs and recorded four CDs. I started a blog in 2002 while leading a band and music ministry, and continue to share writings through that venue, as well as working on a second book and posting an occasional guest blog.
2. Why did you choose the genre you write in? Are there plans to write in another genre
My daily walk with the Holy Spirit is central to all of who I am and what I do. It constantly fills my heart, mind, and writing, so Christian non-fiction has become a natural outlet. I dabbled in fiction and children's literature when younger, so they may overlap with my writing again someday.
3. Please tell about each title here:
This Beloved Road is a snapshot of my pursuit to know God. To really know Him. It is about taking faith beyond believing that God is out there, somewhere, but not really involved too much in my life.
It records my ever-expanding realization that He is more powerful and magnificent than one could imagine, yet more personal than we could hope for. It is about recognizing His voice and believing His words.My goal is to stimulate the idea that a relationship with God is more than theology; it is a daily, growing friendship like all others – and yet so far above all others.
Can we know God? Yes, more intimately than imagined. We are meant to have a friendship full of laughter and tears, questions and answers, and like any relationship it takes time and effort over many years to cultivate. Through 80 essays and songs, I discuss numerous topics, including faith, trust, forgiveness, perseverance, peace, purpose, grace, and love.This book is not age, race, or location specific. Rather, it is for anyone with a spiritual longing.
It is intended to spark desire in those who don’t yet know Jesus, but hope that He is more than just religious duty. It is also for those who have a relationship with God, but long to go deeper in hearing His voice and understanding His ways.
This Beloved Road is also for the faithful for whom the journey deep into their Father’s heart has been long, and now need encouragement to persevere. This Beloved Road is meant to give a taste of the sweetness of God’s friendship and the vastness of His power.
My desire is that you, the reader, will be strengthened and encouraged. I want to share aspects of God that you may have never considered. I hope to open a window and let you see something that will motivate you to walk outside and experience it for yourself.
4. Do you do speaking engagements? Tell about your subject matter.
Yes, I have traveled across the United States and to the Philippines and China to lead worship and teach. Whether leading small groups in a home, training worship leaders and teams, or speaking in churches or at conferences, I love to share biblical truths that bring hope, wisdom, and freedom, and help us learn to see from God's perspective. My favorite topics center around knowing God and living a life of worship.
5. What has been your most rewarding experience as an author?
Three things come to mind: First, writing always takes me deeper in my relationship with God. It challenges me in ways I never could have imagined, but then encourages me to keep going. The process of writing and compiling This Beloved Road was no different. It opened doors to reveal much more beauty and truth about the One I believe in and made me hunger to go yet deeper in Him. This process never ceases to amaze me.
Second, I love that the Holy Spirit can take words on a page and use them to drastically change the lives of others for the better. I have received numerous letters and notes saying that specific pieces of my writing described exactly what that person had already experienced or needed to hear in order to continue on. I've also been leading a study using This Beloved Road for the last few months and am so blessed to see these ladies changing right before my eyes as they apply what they are learning. What an amazing God to put all of these pieces together.
Third, it is very rewarding, very encouraging, to be able to go back and re-read words that I wrote and have read dozens of times before and have them still minister truth and hope to me.
6. Where can your books be purchased?
Several purchasing links are listed on my website
(http://amylaynelitzelman.com/ ):
•signed copies
•eBook download
•Amazon
•Barnes & Noble
•Tate Publishing
Locally: Valley Bookstore and The Cottage Bookstore (Jackson, WY), and Barnes & Noble (Idaho Falls, ID).
Numerous other outlets can be found through Google.
7. How can readers reach you through twitter? through facebook? through your blog? through your website?
Facebook: http://facebook.com/AmyLitzelman
Website: http://AmyLayneLitzelman.com
Blog: http://AmyLayneLitzelman.com/blog
LinkedIn:
Goodreads:
8. We all know that writing can be a lonely occupation, what do your family and friends do to lift you up when you are down?
I have a wonderful family and am surrounded by very encouraging friends who pray for me and remind me that God uses this gift for His purposes in my own life and the lives of others. But mostly, my greatest encouragement and strength comes from the Holy Spirit, Himself. I have learned not to try to get from people what only God can give. He alone releases in us the flow of Life and fills us with the courage and ability we need to obey. Without a constant diet of His presence, my writing and my life become empty and weak.
9. What was your favorite toy as a child?
Most of my younger years were spent on a farm in Montana. Toys were limited, but our imaginations were free to run wild. My very favorite thing to do was build forts - in the woods, in a haystack, in a snowbank, in the bushes or garden - anywhere we could find. And to this day, I can't walk past the bushes in my yard or hike in the woods without thinking, "Oh, that would be a great fort!"
Books by Elaine Littau:
Some Happy Day is the first book in the series I have just begun writing. Rescued...A Series of Hope follows the Nan's Heritage Series. It is being released this month. For the whole month of February 2012, I am offering "Some Happy Day" for a lower price. After February, the price will go up.
Your book will be sent to you as soon as they arrive at my house.
I am selling all 5 of the books in the Nan's Journey Series:
Nan's Journey
Elk's Resolve
Luke's Legacy
The Eyes of a Stranger
Timothy's Home
Print versions for $55.
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Interview with Jim Hughes and update on "Some Happy Day"
Some Happy Day Update
Some Happy Day is the first book in the series I have just begun writing. Rescued...A Series of Hope follows the Nan's Heritage Series. It is being released this month. For the whole month of February 2012, I am offering "Some Happy Day" for a lower price which includes tax and shipping. After February, the price will go up.
If you want to pre-order, please go to elainelittau.com to get in on the lower price. Your book will be sent to you as soon as they arrive at my house. Thank you.
I would like to introduce you to my friend, Jim Hughes. He is an encourager and prayer warrior as well as an inspiration to many.
1. I need you to tell me your name as seen on your books, your genre, and your title(s), and your website address.
My name is Jim Hughes. I write mainly non-fiction. My book is, C Through Marriage. My website is: www.cthroughmarriage.com.
2. How long have you been an author and when did the desire to write (the writing bug) bite?
My book was published in May, 2009. I never had any inclinations to being an author. I often wrote things down for my own benefit as a part of my pastoral ministry.
3. Why did you choose the genre you write in? Are there plans to write in another genre?
The Lord planned it. I was concerned about the many divorces happening in the church and thought I would put down some thoughts I had on what might help to make stronger marriages. It was never my intention to make it into a book. I have written a study guide for my book and I also have another book on Christian marriages written, but not published yet.
4. Please tell about each title here:
The title of “C Through Marriage” stems from the fact I cover 48 different topics relating to marriage, all beginning with the letter C.
5. Do you do speaking engagements? Tell about your subject matter.
I am a preacher so I do a lot of speaking. I rarely have about my book, although I hope to get that opportunity along the way.
6. What has been your most rewarding experience as an author?
The opportunities to do good and minister to people’s needs. I have been able to reach a lot more people with the Gospel because I am an author than I did as a pastor.
7. Where can your books be purchased? Through most Christian book outlets, both online and in stores. Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Tate Publishing & Enterprises are just some of the online sites where it is available.
7. How can readers reach you through twitter? through facebook? through your blog? through your website?I tweet at 4248. I have a C Through Marriage facebook page. My blog is listed at www.cthroughmarriage.blogspot.com. My website is www.cthroughmarriage.com.
8. What was your biggest surprise at being an author?
I am still amazed at how well my book is being received by those who have read it. I have been surprised at all that is involved in the marketing end of being an author and the commitment it takes.
9. We all know that writing can be a lonely occupation, what do your family and friends do to lift you up when you are down?
They take an interest in what I am doing. They are supportive of my efforts, even when it involves so much of my time. They understand that writing is a ministry to me.
10. What is your favorite hobby besides reading or writing?I enjoy sports. I am a couch potato sports enthusiast. I also like to connect with people on the net.
Thank you so much for the great interview, Jim.
I am selling all 5 of my books:
Nan's Journey
Elk's Resolve
Luke's Legacy
The Eyes of a Stranger
Timothy's Home
Print versions for $55
Some Happy Day is the first book in the series I have just begun writing. Rescued...A Series of Hope follows the Nan's Heritage Series. It is being released this month. For the whole month of February 2012, I am offering "Some Happy Day" for a lower price which includes tax and shipping. After February, the price will go up.
If you want to pre-order, please go to elainelittau.com to get in on the lower price. Your book will be sent to you as soon as they arrive at my house. Thank you.
I would like to introduce you to my friend, Jim Hughes. He is an encourager and prayer warrior as well as an inspiration to many.
1. I need you to tell me your name as seen on your books, your genre, and your title(s), and your website address.
My name is Jim Hughes. I write mainly non-fiction. My book is, C Through Marriage. My website is: www.cthroughmarriage.com.
2. How long have you been an author and when did the desire to write (the writing bug) bite?
My book was published in May, 2009. I never had any inclinations to being an author. I often wrote things down for my own benefit as a part of my pastoral ministry.
3. Why did you choose the genre you write in? Are there plans to write in another genre?
The Lord planned it. I was concerned about the many divorces happening in the church and thought I would put down some thoughts I had on what might help to make stronger marriages. It was never my intention to make it into a book. I have written a study guide for my book and I also have another book on Christian marriages written, but not published yet.
4. Please tell about each title here:
The title of “C Through Marriage” stems from the fact I cover 48 different topics relating to marriage, all beginning with the letter C.
5. Do you do speaking engagements? Tell about your subject matter.
I am a preacher so I do a lot of speaking. I rarely have about my book, although I hope to get that opportunity along the way.
6. What has been your most rewarding experience as an author?
The opportunities to do good and minister to people’s needs. I have been able to reach a lot more people with the Gospel because I am an author than I did as a pastor.
7. Where can your books be purchased? Through most Christian book outlets, both online and in stores. Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Tate Publishing & Enterprises are just some of the online sites where it is available.
7. How can readers reach you through twitter? through facebook? through your blog? through your website?I tweet at 4248. I have a C Through Marriage facebook page. My blog is listed at www.cthroughmarriage.blogspot.com. My website is www.cthroughmarriage.com.
8. What was your biggest surprise at being an author?
I am still amazed at how well my book is being received by those who have read it. I have been surprised at all that is involved in the marketing end of being an author and the commitment it takes.
9. We all know that writing can be a lonely occupation, what do your family and friends do to lift you up when you are down?
They take an interest in what I am doing. They are supportive of my efforts, even when it involves so much of my time. They understand that writing is a ministry to me.
10. What is your favorite hobby besides reading or writing?I enjoy sports. I am a couch potato sports enthusiast. I also like to connect with people on the net.
Thank you so much for the great interview, Jim.
I am selling all 5 of my books:
Nan's Journey
Elk's Resolve
Luke's Legacy
The Eyes of a Stranger
Timothy's Home
Print versions for $55
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Review for Nan's Journey by Gailya Keller
Nan's Journey written by Author Elaine Littau
Join Nan as she finds escape for herself and her little brother from a horrible situation. Nan and her brother Elmer grab your heart and take it with them. You will want to gather them up and let them know it will be ok. They manage to start a new, wonderful life thanks to a special couple. They have wonderful adventures and more heartache as they attempt to heal. Nan finds true love as she learns to trust others and to trust God. Life comes full circle in the appearance of an unexpected person which causes her to question God and His Will. Travel on her Journey and share all the heartaches and wonderful blessings and grow your own faith in God.
Gailya Keller
Review by Author, The Secret of Smiley’s Woods
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Never Too Close
There are many times when I think about my family and friends who mean so much to me. I tend to hold them close to my heart.
My little boys would pull away from me when they were toddlers and feel that I was holding them too close. I just wanted to keep on squeezing them and breathing in their 'little boy sweetness/toughness'. There was nothing like it.
I had to release them and let them go on their way to their next adventure as well as let them grow up. As a mother, it is challenging to allow the kiddos to grow up. The hardest part is that sometimes they grow away as they grow up and move on.
The hope is that when they come home for visits, they find love, home, and happy memories. I hope they find a mother and daddy full of the love of God.
I pray that they see that love pulls them into our heart from their first breath and after it is planted, it never goes away. It doesn't matter how many miles or ideas separate us.
I have to admit that I still feel like that young mother who wanted to squeeze tightly and make them submit to my will. Only now, I have to watch as they don't just toddle off to their adventures, but as they make decisions that affect their eternal destiny.
May they always realize that my heart has never let go and my prayers are squeezing them closer. My love is strong, but God's is stronger.
Today I would like to introduce you to another author friend of mine. Meet Aileen Stewart. She has written a delightful children's book that reminds me of the Uncle Wiggley series my boys loved reading years ago.
Aileen Stewart ~ Children’s Author ~ Fern Valley ~ http://aileenw4bobbyg.tripod.com
1. How long have you been an author and when did the desire to write (the writing bug) bite?
I had my first taste of writing when I was in fourth grade and won honorable mention in a poetry contest. This and the fact that my father was a freelance writer for hunting and fishing magazines and both my parents were great story tellers helped form my love of reading and writing. I spent many years writing poems and short stories, which I occasionally entered in contests, before I actually became serious about writing. It was while watching cartoons based on books, with my daughter, that I imagined myself writing a book. My husband was instrumental in encouraging me to follow my dream and FernValley-A Collection of Short Stories was born.
2. Why did you choose the genre you write in? Are there plans to write in another genre?
Basically I never outgrew my enjoyment of children and young adult books, so it seemed natural for me to choose to write a children’s book. To me there is something fresh, innocent, and joyful about writing for children. It is also a way to revisit my childhood and the memories I have from that time and incorporate them into modern day stories.
3. Please tell about each title here:
Let children discover Fern Valley, and they will step back in time to a place where a nineteen fifties small town feel brings a sense of peace and security. A place where no one locks their doors and everyone knows everyone else. A place where above all, the characters know they are loved and supported by their families, friends, and even the surrounding community.
Told through the eyes of youthful farm animals, this work is a series of short stories about children, their feelings, and how they deal with life. Characters such as Roberta and Mildred Cornstalk, two ordinary but imaginative chickens living on a small farm with their parents and brother, display the resiliency of children even when faced with issues such as the loss of a loved one.
A plethora of other colorful characters from goats to rabbits are sure to entertain with their antics and insights. As the readers find out what happens to Roberta and Mildred’s brother Edward when he goes fishing, what birthday surprise is in store for Betsy Woolrich, or what lesson Kimmy Curlytail learns when she keeps something that is not hers, they will be drawn in as surely as if they themselves were present.
4. Do you do speaking engagements? Tell about your subject matter.
I speak at schools, libraries, or clubs to which I am invited. With children, I speak about my book, reading, and writing. With adults, I generally speak about the writing process and my publishing experiences.
5. What has been your most rewarding experience as an author?
I did a book signing at the local Barnes and Noble in my area and shortly thereafter, I received a call stating that they had a mailing tube for me that someone had dropped off at the store. I stopped by the next day to see what it contained and was pleasantly surprised to find a large pencil sketch of my daughter sitting on my lap reading out of my book. With the sketch was a letter from a retired grocery worker who was also an amateur artist. He stated that he had seen a picture of me and my daughter in the news paper and had decided to use it for sketch material. He went on to say that his father had written many books but had never been published and he wished me much success.
I also received letters from two young girls who had read and enjoyed my book. These pieces of fan mail are so special and most humbling. I still have a hard time believing that people are sending “ME” fan mail.
6. Where can your books be purchased?
My books can be purchased almost anywhere online:
Amazonhttp://amzn.com/1617395277
Barnes and Noblehttp://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/fern-valley-aileen-stewart/1100074715
Parable Christian Bookshttp://www.parable.com/i.Fern-Valley-A-Collection-of-Short-Stories-Stewart-Aileen.9781617395277
Tate Publishing http://www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore/book.php?w=978-1-61739-527-7
7. How can readers reach you through twitter? through facebook? through your blog? through your website?
My website is “Fun For Kids” @ http://aileenw4bobbyg.tripod.com
I blog @ http://www.AileenWStewart.blogspot.com
My FB Fan Page can be found @ http://www.facebook.com/pages/Fern-Valley/109736815756550
My Twitter Name is @AileenWStewart
8. What was your biggest surprise at being an author?
Although I have a degree in Business and a Certificate in Sales and Marketing, I think the biggest surprise authorhood has brought me is the realization of how difficult marketing really is in practical application.
9. We all know that writing can be a lonely occupation, what do your family and friends do to lift you up when you are down?
Generally speaking, I am an optimistic sort of a person and don’t get down too often; but when I do, my family reminds me of how far the Lord has already brought me in the writing process. Looking back, I can definitely see a pattern of the Lord blessing what I put my hand to and this is usually enough to cause me to shake off any doldrums and be encouraged once again.
10. What was your favorite toy as a child?
I’m not sure that I actually had a favorite toy, but some of my most memorable toys were my Barbies, my Holly Hobby Colorform Country Store, and my Light Bright Set. Not only did my brother and I love our Light Bright, but our cat did as well. She would take a peg and carry it to the top of our staircase and drop it, watching it roll all the way to the bottom. She would then run down, collect the peg, and start all over. Watching her play was very entertaining. When it came to outside toys, I would have to say that the sandbox my dad made out of an old tractor tire was number one on the list of fun toys.
My little boys would pull away from me when they were toddlers and feel that I was holding them too close. I just wanted to keep on squeezing them and breathing in their 'little boy sweetness/toughness'. There was nothing like it.
I had to release them and let them go on their way to their next adventure as well as let them grow up. As a mother, it is challenging to allow the kiddos to grow up. The hardest part is that sometimes they grow away as they grow up and move on.
The hope is that when they come home for visits, they find love, home, and happy memories. I hope they find a mother and daddy full of the love of God.
I pray that they see that love pulls them into our heart from their first breath and after it is planted, it never goes away. It doesn't matter how many miles or ideas separate us.
I have to admit that I still feel like that young mother who wanted to squeeze tightly and make them submit to my will. Only now, I have to watch as they don't just toddle off to their adventures, but as they make decisions that affect their eternal destiny.
May they always realize that my heart has never let go and my prayers are squeezing them closer. My love is strong, but God's is stronger.
Today I would like to introduce you to another author friend of mine. Meet Aileen Stewart. She has written a delightful children's book that reminds me of the Uncle Wiggley series my boys loved reading years ago.
Aileen Stewart ~ Children’s Author ~ Fern Valley ~ http://aileenw4bobbyg.tripod.com
1. How long have you been an author and when did the desire to write (the writing bug) bite?
I had my first taste of writing when I was in fourth grade and won honorable mention in a poetry contest. This and the fact that my father was a freelance writer for hunting and fishing magazines and both my parents were great story tellers helped form my love of reading and writing. I spent many years writing poems and short stories, which I occasionally entered in contests, before I actually became serious about writing. It was while watching cartoons based on books, with my daughter, that I imagined myself writing a book. My husband was instrumental in encouraging me to follow my dream and FernValley-A Collection of Short Stories was born.
2. Why did you choose the genre you write in? Are there plans to write in another genre?
Basically I never outgrew my enjoyment of children and young adult books, so it seemed natural for me to choose to write a children’s book. To me there is something fresh, innocent, and joyful about writing for children. It is also a way to revisit my childhood and the memories I have from that time and incorporate them into modern day stories.
3. Please tell about each title here:
Let children discover Fern Valley, and they will step back in time to a place where a nineteen fifties small town feel brings a sense of peace and security. A place where no one locks their doors and everyone knows everyone else. A place where above all, the characters know they are loved and supported by their families, friends, and even the surrounding community.
Told through the eyes of youthful farm animals, this work is a series of short stories about children, their feelings, and how they deal with life. Characters such as Roberta and Mildred Cornstalk, two ordinary but imaginative chickens living on a small farm with their parents and brother, display the resiliency of children even when faced with issues such as the loss of a loved one.
A plethora of other colorful characters from goats to rabbits are sure to entertain with their antics and insights. As the readers find out what happens to Roberta and Mildred’s brother Edward when he goes fishing, what birthday surprise is in store for Betsy Woolrich, or what lesson Kimmy Curlytail learns when she keeps something that is not hers, they will be drawn in as surely as if they themselves were present.
4. Do you do speaking engagements? Tell about your subject matter.
I speak at schools, libraries, or clubs to which I am invited. With children, I speak about my book, reading, and writing. With adults, I generally speak about the writing process and my publishing experiences.
5. What has been your most rewarding experience as an author?
I did a book signing at the local Barnes and Noble in my area and shortly thereafter, I received a call stating that they had a mailing tube for me that someone had dropped off at the store. I stopped by the next day to see what it contained and was pleasantly surprised to find a large pencil sketch of my daughter sitting on my lap reading out of my book. With the sketch was a letter from a retired grocery worker who was also an amateur artist. He stated that he had seen a picture of me and my daughter in the news paper and had decided to use it for sketch material. He went on to say that his father had written many books but had never been published and he wished me much success.
I also received letters from two young girls who had read and enjoyed my book. These pieces of fan mail are so special and most humbling. I still have a hard time believing that people are sending “ME” fan mail.
6. Where can your books be purchased?
My books can be purchased almost anywhere online:
Amazonhttp://amzn.com/1617395277
Barnes and Noblehttp://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/fern-valley-aileen-stewart/1100074715
Parable Christian Bookshttp://www.parable.com/i.Fern-Valley-A-Collection-of-Short-Stories-Stewart-Aileen.9781617395277
Tate Publishing http://www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore/book.php?w=978-1-61739-527-7
7. How can readers reach you through twitter? through facebook? through your blog? through your website?
My website is “Fun For Kids” @ http://aileenw4bobbyg.tripod.com
I blog @ http://www.AileenWStewart.blogspot.com
My FB Fan Page can be found @ http://www.facebook.com/pages/Fern-Valley/109736815756550
My Twitter Name is @AileenWStewart
8. What was your biggest surprise at being an author?
Although I have a degree in Business and a Certificate in Sales and Marketing, I think the biggest surprise authorhood has brought me is the realization of how difficult marketing really is in practical application.
9. We all know that writing can be a lonely occupation, what do your family and friends do to lift you up when you are down?
Generally speaking, I am an optimistic sort of a person and don’t get down too often; but when I do, my family reminds me of how far the Lord has already brought me in the writing process. Looking back, I can definitely see a pattern of the Lord blessing what I put my hand to and this is usually enough to cause me to shake off any doldrums and be encouraged once again.
10. What was your favorite toy as a child?
I’m not sure that I actually had a favorite toy, but some of my most memorable toys were my Barbies, my Holly Hobby Colorform Country Store, and my Light Bright Set. Not only did my brother and I love our Light Bright, but our cat did as well. She would take a peg and carry it to the top of our staircase and drop it, watching it roll all the way to the bottom. She would then run down, collect the peg, and start all over. Watching her play was very entertaining. When it came to outside toys, I would have to say that the sandbox my dad made out of an old tractor tire was number one on the list of fun toys.
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Sounds of Comfort
It is almost Christmas and I have awakened early for the day. It is easy at this time of year to be flooded with memories of days gone by. Triggers to those memories come in many different forms.
I live in a house that was built in the 1920s. It is far from perfect. It reminds me of a mother in the way that it offers comfort and character but is not perfect. That is the kind of mother I had as well as the kind of mother I am.
One small thing brought me back to age three or four this morning. I had enjoyed two cups of coffee and was headed for the kitchen for my third when stepping across the old hardwood floors, I heard a creak and then another.
The sound wrapped it's imperfect arms around me and took me to the 'dime store' Mama and I frequented when I was little. It was huge! It had creaky old board floors and smelled like roasted peanuts.
McClellan's was the name of the place. We called it the "Old Dime Store" because Woolworth came to our little Texas town when the Wheatheart Shopping Center was build. We referred to is as the "New Dime Store."
The new place had a charm of its own. It was more like a cousin than a mother. It was new and modern while the old place was creaky and comfortable to me.
One specific memory of the place was when my brother, Jim, who is thirteen years older than me, took me there. He had already told me "no" to riding the big plastic coin operated horse in the front of the store. We were headed to the back where the toys and 'good stuff' was when I saw the dress of my dreams.
There is was...purple with black pin stripes and black velvet ribbon down the sleeves from the shoulder to the wrist. The buttons had real diamonds down the front. (rhinestones) It had crinoline sewed as an underskirt, (a painful addition, I might insert here.) and my four-year-old heart fell in love with it!
I pleaded with my then sixteen-year-old brother to please get it for me. I don't know how it happened, but he bought it. That was a big surprise to me because I was a real bother to him. He was trying to be grown up and I was trying to make him play with me. It caused many little conflicts. On this day he was my hero. (I have that dress displayed in my bedroom and see it every day.)
Every time I went into that store, that memory came to my mind. This morning, in hearing the creak of the floor, the feeling of love from my brother flooded me once again.
I wouldn't have heard it if the house hadn't been quiet. The creak of a floor, tick of an old-time clock, memories of Mama singing "Away in a Manger", the crisp rattle of onion skin paper turning to the next page in the Bible and the sound of the stout winds take me back.
Mama used to sing "Away in a Manger" year round. I think the reason was that it was one of my favorite songs. She told me the Christmas story and some of the terms confused me. The one thing that stands out is that Mary and Joseph slept in the straw. In my mind's eye, I saw a huge drinking straw and them climbing into it. Never had I seen that element in a Nativity set. I remember asking how they got in the straw. Mama just said, "They climbed into it." In my head, they slept in a big clear tube while baby Jesus slept in the manger with hay. (Can you tell I wasn't a country girl?)
I need to remember to turn off the background noises of the television, radio, and other distractions to listen to the sounds of comfort. To me, when you peel away all the outside stuff, you find the things that really matter.
The "Old Dime Store" as well as the "New Dime Store" are gone now, but the memories of creaky floors, fresh roasted peanuts, crisp crinoline, and the big plastic coin operated horse will live forever in my mind.
I live in a house that was built in the 1920s. It is far from perfect. It reminds me of a mother in the way that it offers comfort and character but is not perfect. That is the kind of mother I had as well as the kind of mother I am.
One small thing brought me back to age three or four this morning. I had enjoyed two cups of coffee and was headed for the kitchen for my third when stepping across the old hardwood floors, I heard a creak and then another.
The sound wrapped it's imperfect arms around me and took me to the 'dime store' Mama and I frequented when I was little. It was huge! It had creaky old board floors and smelled like roasted peanuts.
McClellan's was the name of the place. We called it the "Old Dime Store" because Woolworth came to our little Texas town when the Wheatheart Shopping Center was build. We referred to is as the "New Dime Store."
The new place had a charm of its own. It was more like a cousin than a mother. It was new and modern while the old place was creaky and comfortable to me.
One specific memory of the place was when my brother, Jim, who is thirteen years older than me, took me there. He had already told me "no" to riding the big plastic coin operated horse in the front of the store. We were headed to the back where the toys and 'good stuff' was when I saw the dress of my dreams.
There is was...purple with black pin stripes and black velvet ribbon down the sleeves from the shoulder to the wrist. The buttons had real diamonds down the front. (rhinestones) It had crinoline sewed as an underskirt, (a painful addition, I might insert here.) and my four-year-old heart fell in love with it!
I pleaded with my then sixteen-year-old brother to please get it for me. I don't know how it happened, but he bought it. That was a big surprise to me because I was a real bother to him. He was trying to be grown up and I was trying to make him play with me. It caused many little conflicts. On this day he was my hero. (I have that dress displayed in my bedroom and see it every day.)
Every time I went into that store, that memory came to my mind. This morning, in hearing the creak of the floor, the feeling of love from my brother flooded me once again.
I wouldn't have heard it if the house hadn't been quiet. The creak of a floor, tick of an old-time clock, memories of Mama singing "Away in a Manger", the crisp rattle of onion skin paper turning to the next page in the Bible and the sound of the stout winds take me back.
Mama used to sing "Away in a Manger" year round. I think the reason was that it was one of my favorite songs. She told me the Christmas story and some of the terms confused me. The one thing that stands out is that Mary and Joseph slept in the straw. In my mind's eye, I saw a huge drinking straw and them climbing into it. Never had I seen that element in a Nativity set. I remember asking how they got in the straw. Mama just said, "They climbed into it." In my head, they slept in a big clear tube while baby Jesus slept in the manger with hay. (Can you tell I wasn't a country girl?)
I need to remember to turn off the background noises of the television, radio, and other distractions to listen to the sounds of comfort. To me, when you peel away all the outside stuff, you find the things that really matter.
The "Old Dime Store" as well as the "New Dime Store" are gone now, but the memories of creaky floors, fresh roasted peanuts, crisp crinoline, and the big plastic coin operated horse will live forever in my mind.
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Revamping This Blog
When I began blogging, I thought that I would create a blog for each book that I write. I had no idea that I would have the opportunity to write as much as I have been. In February of 2012 I hope to release my sixth book which will be the first book of the new series.
The new series is RESCUED...A SERIES OF HOPE. This series intersects the books of the Nan's Heritage Series. It focuses on the girls who were rescued by the Young family in the first series.
I took the National Novel Writing Month challenge in November of 2011 and wrote the rough draft of the first book in this series, "Some Happy Day". I am very pleased with the way it has turned out so far. I am in the middle of edits. The story is filling out nicely.
Because I am hoping to write many books in the future, I have changed the name to the names of the series that I am writing. You will see the name change with added series in the future.
I appreciate every one of you who takes the time to look at my blogs and also comment. It is my desire to do a good job at this. Merry Christmas and Happy 2012. God bless you richly.
The new series is RESCUED...A SERIES OF HOPE. This series intersects the books of the Nan's Heritage Series. It focuses on the girls who were rescued by the Young family in the first series.
I took the National Novel Writing Month challenge in November of 2011 and wrote the rough draft of the first book in this series, "Some Happy Day". I am very pleased with the way it has turned out so far. I am in the middle of edits. The story is filling out nicely.
Because I am hoping to write many books in the future, I have changed the name to the names of the series that I am writing. You will see the name change with added series in the future.
I appreciate every one of you who takes the time to look at my blogs and also comment. It is my desire to do a good job at this. Merry Christmas and Happy 2012. God bless you richly.
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