Pamela S. Thibodeaux's Blog, page 48
September 15, 2018
#SaturdaySpotlight is on....Me and my upcoming release!
Good Morning Friends,
My scheduled guest couldn't make it today so I'm taking advantage of the rare opportunity to showcase one of my own books, only this one isn't out yet.
In fact, it's not even up for pre-order.
However, I recently received the cover and I wanted to share it with you!
Love in Season is a collection of short romantic stories from Pelican Book Group. It contains 5 previously published stories (Cathy's Angel, Choices, A Hero for Jessica, Winter Madness & In His Sight), Review of Love (which was a free read through PBG but has been edited and expanded AND 2 brand new, never before published stories!
The Big Catch is about a couple who've found some uncommon ground....Fishing! Jeffery loves to be out on the water, casting a line and reeling in a keeper. Karla loves the outdoors and being on the water but just can't seem to muster enthusiasm for the sport. Will their separate views cause a backlash in their relationship?
After a few short years Sandi and Brett have succumbed to the pressure of trying to build a marriage on a relationship that began outside of God's will and competes with Brett's love of football. Can these two grow into the people God created them to be and have a successful life together? Find out in Lilies for Sandi .
I look forward to sharing more about this upcoming collection in the future, but for now, THANKS for stopping by! I hope you'll continue to check back for Tuesday Treasures, Thursday Thoughts and Saturday Spotlight.
Until next time take care and God bless.
PamT
My scheduled guest couldn't make it today so I'm taking advantage of the rare opportunity to showcase one of my own books, only this one isn't out yet.
In fact, it's not even up for pre-order.
However, I recently received the cover and I wanted to share it with you!
Love in Season is a collection of short romantic stories from Pelican Book Group. It contains 5 previously published stories (Cathy's Angel, Choices, A Hero for Jessica, Winter Madness & In His Sight), Review of Love (which was a free read through PBG but has been edited and expanded AND 2 brand new, never before published stories!
The Big Catch is about a couple who've found some uncommon ground....Fishing! Jeffery loves to be out on the water, casting a line and reeling in a keeper. Karla loves the outdoors and being on the water but just can't seem to muster enthusiasm for the sport. Will their separate views cause a backlash in their relationship?
After a few short years Sandi and Brett have succumbed to the pressure of trying to build a marriage on a relationship that began outside of God's will and competes with Brett's love of football. Can these two grow into the people God created them to be and have a successful life together? Find out in Lilies for Sandi .
I look forward to sharing more about this upcoming collection in the future, but for now, THANKS for stopping by! I hope you'll continue to check back for Tuesday Treasures, Thursday Thoughts and Saturday Spotlight.
Until next time take care and God bless.
PamT
September 13, 2018
#ThursdayThoughts with Matt Mikalatos
Good Morning Friends!
Whew! I finally feel as though I'm catching up after my Alaska vacation (8/12-21) and subsequent move into a new place. But enough about me...
Last month I introduced you to Tyndale author, Matt Mikalatos when he shared treasures with us. Please welcome Matt back as he shares some thoughts with us.
Take it away, Matt.....
It’s common in stories with teenagers to have them be brooding, angry creatures who hate each other and the world. I was thinking about this the other day while I was barbecuing in my back yard.
I have two teenaged daughters, and while they certainly have moments where they are upset, angry, or broody, I don’t think it’s any more often than my nine-year-old or, for that matter, their 40-something parents. In fact, when I look at my kids I can’t help but notice that their main motivation in life seems to be to do the right thing. Sure, they miss cues and are lacking life experience in certain areas, but the fact is whether it’s at school or in extra-curricular activities, at home or in the culture at large, my kids want to do the right thing, and they want good things for the people around them. They want their friends to be well and cared for. They’re typically kind to strangers.
Sure, I understand that might not make for compelling fiction a lot of times, which may be part of the reason we end up with snarky, angry characters in so many novels. Personally, I get a little tired of the cranky, overwrought teens in some YA books.
In my novel, The Crescent Stone, I wanted something different. In this book, the teen characters are passionate about doing the right thing, and taking care of each other. When Madeline Oliver faints in chemistry class, her friend Jason Wu jumps into action to help her. No complaints, no eye rolling, no hesitation.
When Madeline is promised a healing of her terminal illness in exchange for a year of service in a fantasy land, Jason says he’s going with her to keep her safe, no arguments. When Madeline discovers injustice in the fantasy world, she sets out to fix it, regardless of the cost.
Throughout the book the teen characters work for justice, are kind to each other, are generous in their relationships, and show loyalty and love for each other. They don’t only love their boyfriends or girlfriends, they love their friends, too, and with a deep commitment to friendship.
That’s something we could use a lot more in this world, and it was, frankly, a relief to write a book where the strength of teen friendships is put front and center as a virtue, not a conflict.
You are so right, Matt! We need to focus on the positive and the good our teenagers do and are capable of instead of their bad or negative behavior!
About Matt: Matt Mikalatos writes books (surprise!). In the past, Matt worked as a high school teacher and a comic book clerk, but currently focuses on nonprofit work devoted to helping people love one another despite their differences. He lives in Portland, Oregon, with his wife, three daughters, two unicorns, a gryphon, a dragon, and three brine shrimp.
His latest book, The Crescent Stone can be purchased at Amazon and Tyndale.
Hope you enjoyed today's post and that you'll check back regularly for Tuesday Treasures, Thursday Thoughts and Saturday Spotlight.
Until next time take care and God bless.
PamT
Whew! I finally feel as though I'm catching up after my Alaska vacation (8/12-21) and subsequent move into a new place. But enough about me...
Last month I introduced you to Tyndale author, Matt Mikalatos when he shared treasures with us. Please welcome Matt back as he shares some thoughts with us.
Take it away, Matt.....
It’s common in stories with teenagers to have them be brooding, angry creatures who hate each other and the world. I was thinking about this the other day while I was barbecuing in my back yard. I have two teenaged daughters, and while they certainly have moments where they are upset, angry, or broody, I don’t think it’s any more often than my nine-year-old or, for that matter, their 40-something parents. In fact, when I look at my kids I can’t help but notice that their main motivation in life seems to be to do the right thing. Sure, they miss cues and are lacking life experience in certain areas, but the fact is whether it’s at school or in extra-curricular activities, at home or in the culture at large, my kids want to do the right thing, and they want good things for the people around them. They want their friends to be well and cared for. They’re typically kind to strangers.
Sure, I understand that might not make for compelling fiction a lot of times, which may be part of the reason we end up with snarky, angry characters in so many novels. Personally, I get a little tired of the cranky, overwrought teens in some YA books.
In my novel, The Crescent Stone, I wanted something different. In this book, the teen characters are passionate about doing the right thing, and taking care of each other. When Madeline Oliver faints in chemistry class, her friend Jason Wu jumps into action to help her. No complaints, no eye rolling, no hesitation.
When Madeline is promised a healing of her terminal illness in exchange for a year of service in a fantasy land, Jason says he’s going with her to keep her safe, no arguments. When Madeline discovers injustice in the fantasy world, she sets out to fix it, regardless of the cost.
Throughout the book the teen characters work for justice, are kind to each other, are generous in their relationships, and show loyalty and love for each other. They don’t only love their boyfriends or girlfriends, they love their friends, too, and with a deep commitment to friendship.
That’s something we could use a lot more in this world, and it was, frankly, a relief to write a book where the strength of teen friendships is put front and center as a virtue, not a conflict.
You are so right, Matt! We need to focus on the positive and the good our teenagers do and are capable of instead of their bad or negative behavior!
About Matt: Matt Mikalatos writes books (surprise!). In the past, Matt worked as a high school teacher and a comic book clerk, but currently focuses on nonprofit work devoted to helping people love one another despite their differences. He lives in Portland, Oregon, with his wife, three daughters, two unicorns, a gryphon, a dragon, and three brine shrimp.
His latest book, The Crescent Stone can be purchased at Amazon and Tyndale.
Hope you enjoyed today's post and that you'll check back regularly for Tuesday Treasures, Thursday Thoughts and Saturday Spotlight.
Until next time take care and God bless.
PamT
September 8, 2018
#SaturdaySpotlight is on James Austin McCormick & Prisoner Valathia!
Good Morning and Welcome to another edition of Saturday Spotlight!
Today I'm pleased to bring to your attention another new-to-me author brought to us by Class Act Books.
James Austin McCormick is a college lecturer from Manchester, England and in his free time enjoys writing speculative fiction, mostly science fiction, horror and a little sword and sorcery fantasy. He is also a particular fan of classic Gothic and Victorian horror tales and is currently in the process of writing updated versions of these with a science fiction spin.
His novels include the trilogy Dragon (Dragon, Dragon: Smuggler Tales, Dragon: The Tower of Tamerlane), The Last Synn, a sword-and-sorcery story, a SciFi novel, Sunfall, and a horror novel, Balec. All are available from Class Act Books.
Find out more about James Austin McCormick at:
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AuthorJamesAustinMcCormick/
Twitter https://twitter.com/jimbomcc69
Goodreads http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/9860555.James_Austin_McCormick
Amazon https://www.amazon.com/James-McCormick/e/B00F3F9SGY
Class Act Books http://www.classactbooks.com/index.php/our-authors/manufacturers/james-austin-mccormick
Very nice to meet you, James! Please share with us your newest release....
The Prisoner of Valathia is a continuation of James Austin McCormick’s DRAGON space opera series and the fourth entry in the continuing story of Sillow Low, the elf-like Sylvan, con man, and Agency spy.The Prisoner of Valathia takes place after Sillow’s escape from Yamerlane, a hi-tech prison, where Darius Drake's apocalyptic plans for the humanoid home-worlds are defeated. Now, Sillow has a new partner…Titanya the Pirate Queen.
The brash pirate queen, and the cowardly, chain-smoking elf take on their first official mission together: investigate the hijack of a prototype military stealth craft and its connection to the mysterious owner of a small mining operation.
What begins as a simple undercover mission soon becomes something far more sinister as they find themselves faceing one man’s obsession with ancient forces powerful enough to destroy them all. The Prisoner of Valathia explores Sillow’s personal demons, self-questioning, and existential angst. Love, duty and an obsessive desire for belonging pull Sillow in different directions and it is up to him alone to navigate his way along this tortuous maturational path.
EXCERPT:Tall, raven haired, with her femininely muscular frame squeezed into a red cocktail dress, Titanya turned every male head as she made her way through the swarm of elite guests. Many tried to think of ways they might meet this amazon and find out just who she was. Even the artificial ruby eye and the silver strip across the cheek just below merely added to her allure. These admirers, however, would have been more than a little surprised to learn the object of their interest was once a “pirate queen,” and the scourge of big corporation haulers everywhere. They would have been equally shocked to discover she was also a fearsome hand-to-hand fighter and one of the long gloves she wore covered a cybernetic arm powerful enough to punch through solid steel.Few noticed her companion. Like most of the Sylvan race, Sillow was of smallish stature with elfin features making him appear somewhat childlike compared to other humanoid races. In contrast to Titanya’s easy grace, he looked awkward and faintly ridiculous wearing a tuxedo a couple of sizes too big for him.There was a scowl on his light green features.“This was really the best you could do?” he complained, rolling his jacket cuffs up as he hurried to keep up with the woman’s swaying strides.Titanya smiled. “It was the smallest they had.”Sillow’s emerald eyes swept the area. “This place makes me nervous.”“Lots of things make you nervous,” the woman told him.The Sylvan snatched up a couple of champagne glasses from a passing waiter and drank each one down before replacing them. “Listen,” he protested, “these events are packed with high price assassins. It’s the perfect chance for the elite psychopaths who come to these events to settle scores with each other.”“So, why do you care?” the woman asked.“Why? Because sometimes things get out of hand and all hell breaks loose.”Titanya stopped, hands on her shapely hips. “Really, that could happen, could it? High class parties can just end up as shooting galleries?”Sillow nodded. “Yep.”“Give me one example, date, and place.”Sillow pulled at one of his pointed ears.“You can’t, can you?” Titanya challenged.“I heard stories.”The woman gave a derisive snort. “Yeah, in a low-life bar or casino.”“Well, actually, it was in the pleasure quarters on Salem Tae when—”“I don’t want to know,” his companion stopped him. “Why are you even an agent anyway? I never met anyone as easily spooked as you.”The Sylvan threw her an irritated look. “Hey, I don’t ask for these missions.”“So why do they send you?”“Because I’m the best pilot in known space, and I do sneaky well.” He gave a shrug. “What can I say? It’s a gift.” He snatched up another couple of drinks from a tray. This time he held one out to his companion. “Here, it helps the nerves.”
Titanya took the glass. “My nerves are fine, pipsqueak, but I do like champagne.”
Wow...sounds intriguing! Where can we find Prisoner Valatia?
DRAGON: The Prisoner of Valathia is available at amazon.com: https://www.amazon.com/Dragon-Prisoner-James-Austin-McCormick-ebook/dp/B0721RR55Q/
Paperback edition available exclusively from www.classactbooks.com
Thanks so much James for sharing your book with us. We certainly wish you the best of luck and God's blessings with it and your series.
I hope you enjoyed today's guest, friends and that you'll check back regularly for Tuesday Treasures, Thursday Thoughts and more Saturday Spotlights.
Until next time, take care and God bless. PamT
Today I'm pleased to bring to your attention another new-to-me author brought to us by Class Act Books.
James Austin McCormick is a college lecturer from Manchester, England and in his free time enjoys writing speculative fiction, mostly science fiction, horror and a little sword and sorcery fantasy. He is also a particular fan of classic Gothic and Victorian horror tales and is currently in the process of writing updated versions of these with a science fiction spin.His novels include the trilogy Dragon (Dragon, Dragon: Smuggler Tales, Dragon: The Tower of Tamerlane), The Last Synn, a sword-and-sorcery story, a SciFi novel, Sunfall, and a horror novel, Balec. All are available from Class Act Books.
Find out more about James Austin McCormick at:
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AuthorJamesAustinMcCormick/
Twitter https://twitter.com/jimbomcc69
Goodreads http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/9860555.James_Austin_McCormick
Amazon https://www.amazon.com/James-McCormick/e/B00F3F9SGY
Class Act Books http://www.classactbooks.com/index.php/our-authors/manufacturers/james-austin-mccormick
Very nice to meet you, James! Please share with us your newest release....
The Prisoner of Valathia is a continuation of James Austin McCormick’s DRAGON space opera series and the fourth entry in the continuing story of Sillow Low, the elf-like Sylvan, con man, and Agency spy.The Prisoner of Valathia takes place after Sillow’s escape from Yamerlane, a hi-tech prison, where Darius Drake's apocalyptic plans for the humanoid home-worlds are defeated. Now, Sillow has a new partner…Titanya the Pirate Queen.The brash pirate queen, and the cowardly, chain-smoking elf take on their first official mission together: investigate the hijack of a prototype military stealth craft and its connection to the mysterious owner of a small mining operation.
What begins as a simple undercover mission soon becomes something far more sinister as they find themselves faceing one man’s obsession with ancient forces powerful enough to destroy them all. The Prisoner of Valathia explores Sillow’s personal demons, self-questioning, and existential angst. Love, duty and an obsessive desire for belonging pull Sillow in different directions and it is up to him alone to navigate his way along this tortuous maturational path.
EXCERPT:Tall, raven haired, with her femininely muscular frame squeezed into a red cocktail dress, Titanya turned every male head as she made her way through the swarm of elite guests. Many tried to think of ways they might meet this amazon and find out just who she was. Even the artificial ruby eye and the silver strip across the cheek just below merely added to her allure. These admirers, however, would have been more than a little surprised to learn the object of their interest was once a “pirate queen,” and the scourge of big corporation haulers everywhere. They would have been equally shocked to discover she was also a fearsome hand-to-hand fighter and one of the long gloves she wore covered a cybernetic arm powerful enough to punch through solid steel.Few noticed her companion. Like most of the Sylvan race, Sillow was of smallish stature with elfin features making him appear somewhat childlike compared to other humanoid races. In contrast to Titanya’s easy grace, he looked awkward and faintly ridiculous wearing a tuxedo a couple of sizes too big for him.There was a scowl on his light green features.“This was really the best you could do?” he complained, rolling his jacket cuffs up as he hurried to keep up with the woman’s swaying strides.Titanya smiled. “It was the smallest they had.”Sillow’s emerald eyes swept the area. “This place makes me nervous.”“Lots of things make you nervous,” the woman told him.The Sylvan snatched up a couple of champagne glasses from a passing waiter and drank each one down before replacing them. “Listen,” he protested, “these events are packed with high price assassins. It’s the perfect chance for the elite psychopaths who come to these events to settle scores with each other.”“So, why do you care?” the woman asked.“Why? Because sometimes things get out of hand and all hell breaks loose.”Titanya stopped, hands on her shapely hips. “Really, that could happen, could it? High class parties can just end up as shooting galleries?”Sillow nodded. “Yep.”“Give me one example, date, and place.”Sillow pulled at one of his pointed ears.“You can’t, can you?” Titanya challenged.“I heard stories.”The woman gave a derisive snort. “Yeah, in a low-life bar or casino.”“Well, actually, it was in the pleasure quarters on Salem Tae when—”“I don’t want to know,” his companion stopped him. “Why are you even an agent anyway? I never met anyone as easily spooked as you.”The Sylvan threw her an irritated look. “Hey, I don’t ask for these missions.”“So why do they send you?”“Because I’m the best pilot in known space, and I do sneaky well.” He gave a shrug. “What can I say? It’s a gift.” He snatched up another couple of drinks from a tray. This time he held one out to his companion. “Here, it helps the nerves.”
Titanya took the glass. “My nerves are fine, pipsqueak, but I do like champagne.”
Wow...sounds intriguing! Where can we find Prisoner Valatia?
DRAGON: The Prisoner of Valathia is available at amazon.com: https://www.amazon.com/Dragon-Prisoner-James-Austin-McCormick-ebook/dp/B0721RR55Q/
Paperback edition available exclusively from www.classactbooks.com
Thanks so much James for sharing your book with us. We certainly wish you the best of luck and God's blessings with it and your series.
I hope you enjoyed today's guest, friends and that you'll check back regularly for Tuesday Treasures, Thursday Thoughts and more Saturday Spotlights.
Until next time, take care and God bless. PamT
September 6, 2018
#ThursdayThoughts with Melanie Dobson
Good Morning Friends!
Well, here we are on the first Thursday of September and it is a GREAT pleasure to introduce today's guest brought to us by Tyndale House Publishing, so PLEASE welcome...Melanie Dobson!
Influence of Children’s Literature (or)
Helping Kids Choose Great Books
Some of my best childhood friends were books. I learned from their pages as I embarked on treacherous journeys, traveled back in time, and helped my favorite characters solve countless mysteries (as if they needed my help…). Books helped me understand the world, and as I grew older, they slowly began to do something else—they inspired me to write adventures of my own.
Forty years later, I still love to read, and when my husband and I adopted our daughters, we wanted to pass along this love of story to them. We’ve spent many sweet hours snuggled around a book as a family, exploring the world together through its magical pages.
When my girls were in preschool, I began taking them to the library to choose books for themselves, and I was shocked to discover what was now available in the children’s and youth sections. I quickly realized that not only did I want to encourage my daughters to love a great story, I needed to help them develop tools to critique a book’s content before they embarked on their own adventures.
In my latest novel, Hidden Among the Stars, the protagonist co-owns a children’s bookstore. Callie, nicknamed Story Girl, explains how a well-written children’s book can mold and shape its readers. It can be a refuge for the mind or it can open the door to a frightening, hostile place. Through Callie’s character, I wanted to communicate my passion for great children’s literature as well as share some of what I’ve learned as a mom who wants to teach children how to choose books wisely.
Hidden Among the Stars is about children’s literature, but it’s also about the dangers of banning books, particularly during World War II. I’m not encouraging a book ban, but I’m a huge proponent of media education as we help our kids make great, healthy choices for what they consume.
As my daughters grew into avid readers, we developed a critique system of sorts that we all understand, dividing books into three different categories for our brains:
Nutrition
The healthy books we search for at the library are ones that fuel our minds, just like good food fuels our bodies. The fruits and vegetables of literature, they offer the best in nutrition for growing the intellect and imagination.
Compelling novels with depth and purpose are a great choice for children, developing their critical thinking skills as they enter a story world very different from their own. Biographies about remarkable people and the many resources explaining how things work help them learn. Poetry and parables expand their minds, challenge their thinking, and often portray God in a fresh, memorable way.
Some of these books taste like berries, others may seem more like brussels sprouts, but they are packed with powerful nutrition to inspire and educate the mind.
Brain Candy
These are the books we read for pure entertainment, the cotton candy of literature. They are super fun and meant to be enjoyed. I love reading brain candy books with my girls, laughing together as we stumble over silly words or take a journey to a faraway land, but like overloading a body on sugar, our brains start to go numb if we gorge them with entertainment.
For most of us, there’s nothing wrong with enjoying a few pieces of candy, but too much of a sweet thing can induce a sugar coma. Our brains begin to starve if we don’t feed them something with substance.
Poison
Some people believe that children should read whatever they’d like, as long as they are reading, but I think this is a dangerous philosophy. It’s like telling my daughters they can eat whatever they’d like, staying silent instead of warning them if something is riddled with poison. No loving parent is going to allow their son or daughter to eat salmonella-tainted meat, even if this child is craving chicken. They are going to teach them how to recognize and avoid poisoned food.
What constitutes “poison” is different for every parent, but just like salmonella can kill a young person, some of the material in children’s books can slowly kill a mind. Or it can kill the hope that flickers inside.
Books, like movies or music, are not meaningless entertainment. The stories and information inside the covers often begin to define their readers, and I, for one, want my girls to grow strong and healthy in both body and mind, learning to critique their options before deciding what’s best for their brains.
Author Bio: Writing fiction is Melanie Dobson’s excuse to explore abandoned houses, travel to unique places, and spend hours reading old books and journals. The award-winning author of almost twenty books, Melanie enjoys stitching together both time-slip and historical novels including Hidden Among the Stars, Chateau of Secrets, and Catching the Wind. More information about Melanie’s journey is available at www.melaniedobson.com
Hidden Among the Stars can be purchased at Tyndale, Amazon and wherever books are sold!
Hope you enjoyed today's post and that you'll check back for more Tuesday Treasures, Thursday Thoughts and Saturday Spotlight.
Until next time take care and God bless.
PamT
Well, here we are on the first Thursday of September and it is a GREAT pleasure to introduce today's guest brought to us by Tyndale House Publishing, so PLEASE welcome...Melanie Dobson!
Influence of Children’s Literature (or)Helping Kids Choose Great Books
Some of my best childhood friends were books. I learned from their pages as I embarked on treacherous journeys, traveled back in time, and helped my favorite characters solve countless mysteries (as if they needed my help…). Books helped me understand the world, and as I grew older, they slowly began to do something else—they inspired me to write adventures of my own.
Forty years later, I still love to read, and when my husband and I adopted our daughters, we wanted to pass along this love of story to them. We’ve spent many sweet hours snuggled around a book as a family, exploring the world together through its magical pages.
When my girls were in preschool, I began taking them to the library to choose books for themselves, and I was shocked to discover what was now available in the children’s and youth sections. I quickly realized that not only did I want to encourage my daughters to love a great story, I needed to help them develop tools to critique a book’s content before they embarked on their own adventures.
In my latest novel, Hidden Among the Stars, the protagonist co-owns a children’s bookstore. Callie, nicknamed Story Girl, explains how a well-written children’s book can mold and shape its readers. It can be a refuge for the mind or it can open the door to a frightening, hostile place. Through Callie’s character, I wanted to communicate my passion for great children’s literature as well as share some of what I’ve learned as a mom who wants to teach children how to choose books wisely.
Hidden Among the Stars is about children’s literature, but it’s also about the dangers of banning books, particularly during World War II. I’m not encouraging a book ban, but I’m a huge proponent of media education as we help our kids make great, healthy choices for what they consume.
As my daughters grew into avid readers, we developed a critique system of sorts that we all understand, dividing books into three different categories for our brains:
Nutrition
The healthy books we search for at the library are ones that fuel our minds, just like good food fuels our bodies. The fruits and vegetables of literature, they offer the best in nutrition for growing the intellect and imagination.
Compelling novels with depth and purpose are a great choice for children, developing their critical thinking skills as they enter a story world very different from their own. Biographies about remarkable people and the many resources explaining how things work help them learn. Poetry and parables expand their minds, challenge their thinking, and often portray God in a fresh, memorable way.
Some of these books taste like berries, others may seem more like brussels sprouts, but they are packed with powerful nutrition to inspire and educate the mind.
Brain Candy
These are the books we read for pure entertainment, the cotton candy of literature. They are super fun and meant to be enjoyed. I love reading brain candy books with my girls, laughing together as we stumble over silly words or take a journey to a faraway land, but like overloading a body on sugar, our brains start to go numb if we gorge them with entertainment.
For most of us, there’s nothing wrong with enjoying a few pieces of candy, but too much of a sweet thing can induce a sugar coma. Our brains begin to starve if we don’t feed them something with substance.
Poison
Some people believe that children should read whatever they’d like, as long as they are reading, but I think this is a dangerous philosophy. It’s like telling my daughters they can eat whatever they’d like, staying silent instead of warning them if something is riddled with poison. No loving parent is going to allow their son or daughter to eat salmonella-tainted meat, even if this child is craving chicken. They are going to teach them how to recognize and avoid poisoned food.
What constitutes “poison” is different for every parent, but just like salmonella can kill a young person, some of the material in children’s books can slowly kill a mind. Or it can kill the hope that flickers inside.
Books, like movies or music, are not meaningless entertainment. The stories and information inside the covers often begin to define their readers, and I, for one, want my girls to grow strong and healthy in both body and mind, learning to critique their options before deciding what’s best for their brains.
Author Bio: Writing fiction is Melanie Dobson’s excuse to explore abandoned houses, travel to unique places, and spend hours reading old books and journals. The award-winning author of almost twenty books, Melanie enjoys stitching together both time-slip and historical novels including Hidden Among the Stars, Chateau of Secrets, and Catching the Wind. More information about Melanie’s journey is available at www.melaniedobson.com
Hidden Among the Stars can be purchased at Tyndale, Amazon and wherever books are sold!
Hope you enjoyed today's post and that you'll check back for more Tuesday Treasures, Thursday Thoughts and Saturday Spotlight.
Until next time take care and God bless.
PamT
August 30, 2018
#ThursdayThoughts with Kathy Bailey
Good Morning!
Been a crazy few weeks for me. On the 12th my dad and I flew to AK to visit my brother and his family including a brand new grandbaby (for him, great for dad and great niece for me). We returned on the 21st and on the 22nd I embarked on moving. Hopefully, September will be somewhat quieter LOL!
As you well know it is always a pleasure to bring you a brand new author and today is no exception!
Kathy Bailey is a newly contracted author with Pelican Book Group. Her upcoming novel, an Oregon Trail romance with a reunion & secret baby will be out sometime next year, meanwhile, please give her a great big welcome as she shares some thoughts with us on doubt....
I have always loved the story of the Apostle Thomas, maybe too much. You remember Tom, the follower of Jesus who didn’t believe the breathless, glowing reports from the Empty Tomb. Who had to touch the nail prints and put his own hand against Jesus’s shattered side before he believed. But when he did, that was that and he went on to win a portion of the known world to his Lord. I’m a little bit of a skeptic, I like to touch and see and hear and smell, and so Thomas’s story always connects with me. It’s easy to doubt in the current literary climate. Publishing houses merging, lines and imprints closing, and the dreaded “platform” requirements. (I was scared of “platform” until someone explained to me that it’s basically talking to people on line about what I love, which is writing.) While self-publishing has shed its stigma and smaller boutique publishers are filling a niche, writing fiction is still one of life’s riskier propositions. Ten editors can say “no” without drawing blood once, but do you really want to face an eleventh?Here are some times when I doubt:
1. When I receive a rejection.
2. When I receive contest feedback that doesn't "get" the story. I'm usually pretty good about contests and taking my lumps, but occasionally the judge and I are not on the same page. Possibly not on the same planet.
3. When I'm away from the keyboard for too long and I let the doubts take over because I have nothing else to think about. IF I’m writing, there is always hope.
4. When I read something that is much, much better than I could have done, at least at this stage of my career.
5. Used to be, when an online or physical friend signed with an agent or publishing house that I hadn't had success with, or when someone got published in a relatively short amount of time. I've grown out of that, I realize that in today's market a success for one is a success for the rest of us. A metaphorical rising tide lifts all Christian fiction boats.
6. Whenever I try to do it myself instead of depending on the Lord, and His timing.I'm contracted now but still feel doubts. Am I a one-trick pony? Am I a pony at all? We'll see.My husband is an ordained elder in our denomination, and has served several churches in various capacities. He often quotes his first pastor and mentor who told him, “Be very certain of your call. There will be times when it’s all you’ve got.” The same can be said of the call to write. The world will knock you down, if it notices you at all. You’ll deal with unfair business decisions, such as a line closing the week after you sell to them, and the whims and idiosyncrasies of others. It’s a subjective business. It’s a crazy business. It’s an inexact science. And if you’re called to write Christian fiction, it’s your business.There will be times you doubt, and each of us has his or her own way of overcoming doubt. For me, nothing works better than powering my way through. Write something. Write anything. Cull out what was good, and write it again. Keep an encouragement file with a record of your sales, contest finals or anything else that gives you hope. Get on your knees, then get back to the keyboard.The Apostle Thomas went on to preach in Greece and India, founding a Christian sect in India that continues to this day. He gave his life for his faith in 72 AD. He overcame his doubts, gloriously, and fulfilled his call.
Wow, Kathy we all go through doubt...great thoughts!
Now, here's a little more about Kathy in her own word....
I’m a freelance writer with 35 years’ experience in the nonfiction, newspaper and inspirational fields. Born in 1951, I was a child in the 50s, a teen in the 60s, a young adult in the 70s, and a young mom in the 80s. It’s been a turbulent, colorful time to grow up, and I’ve enjoyed every minute of it and written about most of it. I spent 35 years in print journalism, magazines and newspapers, before semi-retiring to pursue my first love, Christian fiction. My debut novel, an Oregon Trail romance not yet titled, will release Sept. 20, 2019 with Pelican/White Rose Publishing. I’ve finaled in the 2014 Unpublished Maggies, 2015Tara Awards (first in my category), 2015 Lone Star Awards, semi-finaled in the 2015 Genesis Awards, was the overall winner in the 2016 Phoenix Rattler contest, finaled in the 2017 Phoenix Rattler and Indiana Golden Opportunity, and am a finalist in this year’s Genesis contest. I can be reached at ampie86@comcast.net; through my Web site, www.kathleendbailey.weebly.com, through Facebook or LinkedIn. Hope you enjoyed today's post and you'll check back often for Tuesday Treasures, Thursday Thoughts and Saturday Spotlight.Until next time, take care and God bless. PamT
Been a crazy few weeks for me. On the 12th my dad and I flew to AK to visit my brother and his family including a brand new grandbaby (for him, great for dad and great niece for me). We returned on the 21st and on the 22nd I embarked on moving. Hopefully, September will be somewhat quieter LOL!
As you well know it is always a pleasure to bring you a brand new author and today is no exception!
Kathy Bailey is a newly contracted author with Pelican Book Group. Her upcoming novel, an Oregon Trail romance with a reunion & secret baby will be out sometime next year, meanwhile, please give her a great big welcome as she shares some thoughts with us on doubt....
I have always loved the story of the Apostle Thomas, maybe too much. You remember Tom, the follower of Jesus who didn’t believe the breathless, glowing reports from the Empty Tomb. Who had to touch the nail prints and put his own hand against Jesus’s shattered side before he believed. But when he did, that was that and he went on to win a portion of the known world to his Lord. I’m a little bit of a skeptic, I like to touch and see and hear and smell, and so Thomas’s story always connects with me. It’s easy to doubt in the current literary climate. Publishing houses merging, lines and imprints closing, and the dreaded “platform” requirements. (I was scared of “platform” until someone explained to me that it’s basically talking to people on line about what I love, which is writing.) While self-publishing has shed its stigma and smaller boutique publishers are filling a niche, writing fiction is still one of life’s riskier propositions. Ten editors can say “no” without drawing blood once, but do you really want to face an eleventh?Here are some times when I doubt:
1. When I receive a rejection.
2. When I receive contest feedback that doesn't "get" the story. I'm usually pretty good about contests and taking my lumps, but occasionally the judge and I are not on the same page. Possibly not on the same planet.
3. When I'm away from the keyboard for too long and I let the doubts take over because I have nothing else to think about. IF I’m writing, there is always hope.
4. When I read something that is much, much better than I could have done, at least at this stage of my career.
5. Used to be, when an online or physical friend signed with an agent or publishing house that I hadn't had success with, or when someone got published in a relatively short amount of time. I've grown out of that, I realize that in today's market a success for one is a success for the rest of us. A metaphorical rising tide lifts all Christian fiction boats.
6. Whenever I try to do it myself instead of depending on the Lord, and His timing.I'm contracted now but still feel doubts. Am I a one-trick pony? Am I a pony at all? We'll see.My husband is an ordained elder in our denomination, and has served several churches in various capacities. He often quotes his first pastor and mentor who told him, “Be very certain of your call. There will be times when it’s all you’ve got.” The same can be said of the call to write. The world will knock you down, if it notices you at all. You’ll deal with unfair business decisions, such as a line closing the week after you sell to them, and the whims and idiosyncrasies of others. It’s a subjective business. It’s a crazy business. It’s an inexact science. And if you’re called to write Christian fiction, it’s your business.There will be times you doubt, and each of us has his or her own way of overcoming doubt. For me, nothing works better than powering my way through. Write something. Write anything. Cull out what was good, and write it again. Keep an encouragement file with a record of your sales, contest finals or anything else that gives you hope. Get on your knees, then get back to the keyboard.The Apostle Thomas went on to preach in Greece and India, founding a Christian sect in India that continues to this day. He gave his life for his faith in 72 AD. He overcame his doubts, gloriously, and fulfilled his call.
Wow, Kathy we all go through doubt...great thoughts!
Now, here's a little more about Kathy in her own word....
I’m a freelance writer with 35 years’ experience in the nonfiction, newspaper and inspirational fields. Born in 1951, I was a child in the 50s, a teen in the 60s, a young adult in the 70s, and a young mom in the 80s. It’s been a turbulent, colorful time to grow up, and I’ve enjoyed every minute of it and written about most of it. I spent 35 years in print journalism, magazines and newspapers, before semi-retiring to pursue my first love, Christian fiction. My debut novel, an Oregon Trail romance not yet titled, will release Sept. 20, 2019 with Pelican/White Rose Publishing. I’ve finaled in the 2014 Unpublished Maggies, 2015Tara Awards (first in my category), 2015 Lone Star Awards, semi-finaled in the 2015 Genesis Awards, was the overall winner in the 2016 Phoenix Rattler contest, finaled in the 2017 Phoenix Rattler and Indiana Golden Opportunity, and am a finalist in this year’s Genesis contest. I can be reached at ampie86@comcast.net; through my Web site, www.kathleendbailey.weebly.com, through Facebook or LinkedIn. Hope you enjoyed today's post and you'll check back often for Tuesday Treasures, Thursday Thoughts and Saturday Spotlight.Until next time, take care and God bless. PamT
August 25, 2018
#SaturdaySpotlight is on Robb T White
Good Morning!
Well I returned from my Alaska vacation and am trying to get caught up and back in business. Today's guest is new to me and our blog and brought to us from Class Act Books so please give Mr. Robb T White a huge welcome!
Under the names Terry White, Robert White, and Robb T. White, Robert White has published dozens of crime, noir, and hardboiled short stories, and three hardboiled private-eye novels. A lifelong reader of crime fiction, he published his first story in Gary Lovisi's Hardboiled magazine. Since then, he has published several dozen crime stories, and a collection of mainstream stories in 2013. An ebook crime novel, "Special Collections," won the New Rivers Electronic Book Competition in 2014.
White was born, raised, and continues to live in Ashtabula, Ohio.
Weaker sex? Not hardly!The female is definitely deadlier than the mail. Short stories about ladies who can hold their own.
Excerpt:
Be careful what you wish for, Regina.Her mother’s words. Sometimes she could hear her mother’s voice in the house.The Vindicator piece on Bodycomb’s death was two paragraphs. He was found floating in Lake Milton, a popular summer resort area for fisherman seventeen miles east of Austintown just off the Interstate 80 overpass. Shot by a small-caliber weapon in the back of the head. The important information was in the second paragraph: Bodycomb, it noted, was running a dog-fighting network among three states: Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia for a loose-knit West Virginia crime family connected to the Pittsburgh LaRizzo family. Damn you, Leo. She was blowing through caution lights, ignoring the honking of cars, as she beelined for the office on Market.Like a script from a cheap thriller, he was there, wearing the same clothes and unshaven, big jowls dark with stubble, pong of body odor in the overheated single room.“You promised me full disclosure, total honesty,” she said.She threw the paper across his desk.“Here it is in case you missed it.”Be calm, Regina, she told herself. She wasn’t going to lose her temper and a new job in that order.“I did and I meant it, Baby,” Leo said.He glanced at the paper sideways and pushed it back to her. He’d obviously read it.“You asked me—no, you demanded I call somebody. I did,” he said.He disgusted her with those wagging jowls and big stomach. She noticed his belt was undone and a patch of curly belly hair exposed. Probably jerking off in here, the freak.“I suppose you’ll tell me when the mood strikes.”“I meant the secondcase—your next case,” Leo said. “Full disclosure, just like you want.”Her indignation petered out at the prospect. “So tell me about it,” she said.Bodycomb was moving in on Donnie Bracca’s territory with his dog-fighting, Leo said.“He can kill all the dogs he wants in West Virginia,” Leo said. “But Donnie B. controls gambling around here.”“Donnie Bracca was your real client all the time,” Baby said.“It’s like this, kid. They don’t blow each other up in cars no more. Gentlemen’s agreements, all nice and polite. But rules have to be followed. Bodycomb went rogue.”She bit back a retort: You mean, like your own father?Leo went on, waxing large, a hopeless Mafioso lover, although a real mafia man, a made man, could see Leo couldn’t be trusted. But even the Aryan Brotherhood used outside associates to get things done. Leo could be useful if you couldn’t buy a cop or scare off an investigative reporter snooping in shady politics or business deals.She didn’t feel bad about Bodycomb’s death. After all, she'd wanted to kill the guy herself.“Damn it, Leo,” she said. “You should have told me this in the beginning.”Baby moved in the direction Bodycomb’s vehicle had taken. After A couple of hundred yards through meadow grass up to her knees, she stopped and listened. Moving on, she dodged stunted bushes that popped up out of nowhere to snag her clothing. The foliage grew less dense. She found the parallel ruts of the Road Runner’s tracks and kept moving, straining her eyes to see light ahead. If Bodycomb was hiding assets from his soon-to-be ex-wife, he was taking a lot of trouble over it. After five minutes of faster walking in the grooves, she heard barking coming from the right. She saw the first glimmer of light in the distance. The terrain was sparse but small slopes refracted the light source so it appeared and disappeared with every rise of the ground. A single dog barking became two, then three and finally a pack. Beneath their howls, men’s voices. When she got close enough to make out words, she lay flat on her belly and put the binoculars on a cluster of men beside a ramshackle barn surrounded by cages of dogs in the beds of trucks beside a squared string of light bulbs a dozen feet from the ground. It looked like a crude boxing ring for backyard brawlers. Its purpose became clear in the next few minutes. It was a dog-fighting pit.
Dangerous Women is available for Kindle and in Paperback!
Hope you enjoyed today's post and that you'll check back often for Tuesday Treasures, Thursday Thoughts and Saturday Spotlight.
Until next time, take care and God bless. PamT
Well I returned from my Alaska vacation and am trying to get caught up and back in business. Today's guest is new to me and our blog and brought to us from Class Act Books so please give Mr. Robb T White a huge welcome!
Under the names Terry White, Robert White, and Robb T. White, Robert White has published dozens of crime, noir, and hardboiled short stories, and three hardboiled private-eye novels. A lifelong reader of crime fiction, he published his first story in Gary Lovisi's Hardboiled magazine. Since then, he has published several dozen crime stories, and a collection of mainstream stories in 2013. An ebook crime novel, "Special Collections," won the New Rivers Electronic Book Competition in 2014.
White was born, raised, and continues to live in Ashtabula, Ohio.
Weaker sex? Not hardly!The female is definitely deadlier than the mail. Short stories about ladies who can hold their own.Excerpt:
Be careful what you wish for, Regina.Her mother’s words. Sometimes she could hear her mother’s voice in the house.The Vindicator piece on Bodycomb’s death was two paragraphs. He was found floating in Lake Milton, a popular summer resort area for fisherman seventeen miles east of Austintown just off the Interstate 80 overpass. Shot by a small-caliber weapon in the back of the head. The important information was in the second paragraph: Bodycomb, it noted, was running a dog-fighting network among three states: Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia for a loose-knit West Virginia crime family connected to the Pittsburgh LaRizzo family. Damn you, Leo. She was blowing through caution lights, ignoring the honking of cars, as she beelined for the office on Market.Like a script from a cheap thriller, he was there, wearing the same clothes and unshaven, big jowls dark with stubble, pong of body odor in the overheated single room.“You promised me full disclosure, total honesty,” she said.She threw the paper across his desk.“Here it is in case you missed it.”Be calm, Regina, she told herself. She wasn’t going to lose her temper and a new job in that order.“I did and I meant it, Baby,” Leo said.He glanced at the paper sideways and pushed it back to her. He’d obviously read it.“You asked me—no, you demanded I call somebody. I did,” he said.He disgusted her with those wagging jowls and big stomach. She noticed his belt was undone and a patch of curly belly hair exposed. Probably jerking off in here, the freak.“I suppose you’ll tell me when the mood strikes.”“I meant the secondcase—your next case,” Leo said. “Full disclosure, just like you want.”Her indignation petered out at the prospect. “So tell me about it,” she said.Bodycomb was moving in on Donnie Bracca’s territory with his dog-fighting, Leo said.“He can kill all the dogs he wants in West Virginia,” Leo said. “But Donnie B. controls gambling around here.”“Donnie Bracca was your real client all the time,” Baby said.“It’s like this, kid. They don’t blow each other up in cars no more. Gentlemen’s agreements, all nice and polite. But rules have to be followed. Bodycomb went rogue.”She bit back a retort: You mean, like your own father?Leo went on, waxing large, a hopeless Mafioso lover, although a real mafia man, a made man, could see Leo couldn’t be trusted. But even the Aryan Brotherhood used outside associates to get things done. Leo could be useful if you couldn’t buy a cop or scare off an investigative reporter snooping in shady politics or business deals.She didn’t feel bad about Bodycomb’s death. After all, she'd wanted to kill the guy herself.“Damn it, Leo,” she said. “You should have told me this in the beginning.”Baby moved in the direction Bodycomb’s vehicle had taken. After A couple of hundred yards through meadow grass up to her knees, she stopped and listened. Moving on, she dodged stunted bushes that popped up out of nowhere to snag her clothing. The foliage grew less dense. She found the parallel ruts of the Road Runner’s tracks and kept moving, straining her eyes to see light ahead. If Bodycomb was hiding assets from his soon-to-be ex-wife, he was taking a lot of trouble over it. After five minutes of faster walking in the grooves, she heard barking coming from the right. She saw the first glimmer of light in the distance. The terrain was sparse but small slopes refracted the light source so it appeared and disappeared with every rise of the ground. A single dog barking became two, then three and finally a pack. Beneath their howls, men’s voices. When she got close enough to make out words, she lay flat on her belly and put the binoculars on a cluster of men beside a ramshackle barn surrounded by cages of dogs in the beds of trucks beside a squared string of light bulbs a dozen feet from the ground. It looked like a crude boxing ring for backyard brawlers. Its purpose became clear in the next few minutes. It was a dog-fighting pit.
Dangerous Women is available for Kindle and in Paperback!
Hope you enjoyed today's post and that you'll check back often for Tuesday Treasures, Thursday Thoughts and Saturday Spotlight.
Until next time, take care and God bless. PamT
August 23, 2018
#ThursdayThoughts with Tessa Afshar
Good Morning!
We arrived home late last night from Alaska so you still may not hear too much from me until I recover and catch up after 10 full days with little/no computer access LOL!
No worries though, I've got a very special guest today.... Tyndale author Tessa Afshar shares some thoughts and her new release with us.
Welcome Tesa!
Love Never Fails
If you have ever attended a wedding in a church, chances are you have heard someone read 1 Corinthians 13. It is such a familiar passage that we sometimes forget to listen to it. But the words in that passage are remarkable. At the end of the section, Paul makes the most extraordinary claim of all: “Love never fails” 1 Corinthians 13: 8 (NIV).
But those of us who have been touched by the wounds of wrecked relationships, strained marriages, broken friendships, divorce, and repeated disappointments have had a different experience. Love does fail. In spectacular, heart-wrenching ways. What are we to do with this discrepancy?
This is the lesson that Ariadne, my new heroine in Thief of Corinth, has to learn. Ariadne lives in first century Corinth. After the wreckage of her parents’ divorce, she is very aware that other people’s love fails. By the end of the book, she becomes aware that her own love has failed as well. In the process of this transformation, of recognizing her own fractured love rather than focusing on how other people have failed her, she comes face to face with her need for God. She learns an important lesson.
God covers our gaps.
In his letter to the church in Ephesus, Paul prays something striking. He prays that the followers of Christ may have power “to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ” (Ephesians 3:18-19).
He prays for believers to have supernatural power, the Spirit’s power, in order to grasp the love of Christ. In other words, we need supernatural help from the Holy Spirit to receive love and hold on to it. Need the Spirit’s power merely to experience love. The kind of love God wants us to taste requires a move of God.
The flesh that has never tasted such a love in this world is incapable of grasping it. We cannot live like beloved sons and daughters because we don’t know what the Father’s perfect love, offered to us through Christ, really feels like.
But in Christ, we can learn to experience boundless love. And to give it.
We will still fail to love perfectly. But like Ariadne, we learn two lessons: clinging to Jesus will mean we fail less often, and when we do, God’s perfect love covers our failures.
One of the first things I learned about my husband was that he was an early morning person. By 9 PM his eyelids started growing heavy. While we were dating, I noticed a sweet tendency in him. He hated to say goodbye. Even though it was long past his bedtime, he would linger for one more word. One more minute with me. We didn’t spend the extra time on any life-shattering discussions or important chores. We merely enjoyed one another’s presence.
He was willing to pay the price of sleeplessness, exhaustion, and mounting tasks left undone, just so he could be with me a little while longer. Now that I know him better, I realize how much those late nights cost him and am amazed by the sacrifice. It remains one of the sweetest memories of our courtship.
I have come to realize that we need to linger with Jesus in the same way. To pay the price of staying with Him just a bit longer. Linger to enjoy one more moment with Him. To grasp how wide and long and high and deep His love really goes. His love never fails.
What a lovely thing Tesa....certainly some thoughts for us to ponder today. Thanks for sharing!
Tessa Afshar is the award-winning author of Bread of Angels, Land of Silence, and several other historical novels. Land of Silence won an Inspy Award in the general fiction category and was voted by Library Journal as one of the top five Christian fiction titles of 2016. Harvest of Gold won the prestigious Christy Award in the historical romance category, and Harvest of Rubies was a finalist for the 2013 ECPA Christian Book Award for fiction. In 2011, after publishing her first novel, Pearl in the Sand, Tessa was named New Author of the Year by the FamilyFiction-sponsored Reader's Choice Awards.
Tessa was born in Iran and lived there for the first fourteen years of her life. She then moved to England, where she survived boarding school for girls and fell in love with Jane Austen and Charlotte Bronte, before moving to the United States permanently. Her conversion to Christianity in her twenties changed the course of her life forever. Tessa holds an MDiv from Yale Divinity School, where she served as co-chair of the Evangelical Fellowship. She serves part-time on the staff of one of the oldest churches in America. But that has not cured her from being exceptionally fond of chocolate. Visit her online at www.tessaafshar.com. Her newest release, Thief of Corinth can be found at Tyndale and at Amazon.
Hope you enjoyed today's post and that you'll check back regularly for Tuesday Treasures, Thursday Thoughts and Saturday Spotlight.
Until next time take care and God bless.
PamT
We arrived home late last night from Alaska so you still may not hear too much from me until I recover and catch up after 10 full days with little/no computer access LOL!
No worries though, I've got a very special guest today.... Tyndale author Tessa Afshar shares some thoughts and her new release with us.
Welcome Tesa!
Love Never Fails
If you have ever attended a wedding in a church, chances are you have heard someone read 1 Corinthians 13. It is such a familiar passage that we sometimes forget to listen to it. But the words in that passage are remarkable. At the end of the section, Paul makes the most extraordinary claim of all: “Love never fails” 1 Corinthians 13: 8 (NIV).
But those of us who have been touched by the wounds of wrecked relationships, strained marriages, broken friendships, divorce, and repeated disappointments have had a different experience. Love does fail. In spectacular, heart-wrenching ways. What are we to do with this discrepancy?
This is the lesson that Ariadne, my new heroine in Thief of Corinth, has to learn. Ariadne lives in first century Corinth. After the wreckage of her parents’ divorce, she is very aware that other people’s love fails. By the end of the book, she becomes aware that her own love has failed as well. In the process of this transformation, of recognizing her own fractured love rather than focusing on how other people have failed her, she comes face to face with her need for God. She learns an important lesson.
God covers our gaps.
In his letter to the church in Ephesus, Paul prays something striking. He prays that the followers of Christ may have power “to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ” (Ephesians 3:18-19).
He prays for believers to have supernatural power, the Spirit’s power, in order to grasp the love of Christ. In other words, we need supernatural help from the Holy Spirit to receive love and hold on to it. Need the Spirit’s power merely to experience love. The kind of love God wants us to taste requires a move of God.
The flesh that has never tasted such a love in this world is incapable of grasping it. We cannot live like beloved sons and daughters because we don’t know what the Father’s perfect love, offered to us through Christ, really feels like.
But in Christ, we can learn to experience boundless love. And to give it.
We will still fail to love perfectly. But like Ariadne, we learn two lessons: clinging to Jesus will mean we fail less often, and when we do, God’s perfect love covers our failures.
One of the first things I learned about my husband was that he was an early morning person. By 9 PM his eyelids started growing heavy. While we were dating, I noticed a sweet tendency in him. He hated to say goodbye. Even though it was long past his bedtime, he would linger for one more word. One more minute with me. We didn’t spend the extra time on any life-shattering discussions or important chores. We merely enjoyed one another’s presence.
He was willing to pay the price of sleeplessness, exhaustion, and mounting tasks left undone, just so he could be with me a little while longer. Now that I know him better, I realize how much those late nights cost him and am amazed by the sacrifice. It remains one of the sweetest memories of our courtship.
I have come to realize that we need to linger with Jesus in the same way. To pay the price of staying with Him just a bit longer. Linger to enjoy one more moment with Him. To grasp how wide and long and high and deep His love really goes. His love never fails.
What a lovely thing Tesa....certainly some thoughts for us to ponder today. Thanks for sharing!
Tessa Afshar is the award-winning author of Bread of Angels, Land of Silence, and several other historical novels. Land of Silence won an Inspy Award in the general fiction category and was voted by Library Journal as one of the top five Christian fiction titles of 2016. Harvest of Gold won the prestigious Christy Award in the historical romance category, and Harvest of Rubies was a finalist for the 2013 ECPA Christian Book Award for fiction. In 2011, after publishing her first novel, Pearl in the Sand, Tessa was named New Author of the Year by the FamilyFiction-sponsored Reader's Choice Awards.Tessa was born in Iran and lived there for the first fourteen years of her life. She then moved to England, where she survived boarding school for girls and fell in love with Jane Austen and Charlotte Bronte, before moving to the United States permanently. Her conversion to Christianity in her twenties changed the course of her life forever. Tessa holds an MDiv from Yale Divinity School, where she served as co-chair of the Evangelical Fellowship. She serves part-time on the staff of one of the oldest churches in America. But that has not cured her from being exceptionally fond of chocolate. Visit her online at www.tessaafshar.com. Her newest release, Thief of Corinth can be found at Tyndale and at Amazon.
Hope you enjoyed today's post and that you'll check back regularly for Tuesday Treasures, Thursday Thoughts and Saturday Spotlight.
Until next time take care and God bless.
PamT
August 18, 2018
#SaturdaySpotlight is on Bishop Ken & Pastor Sheila Giles
Good Morning Friends!
Our guests today have visited with us before....Bishop Ken & Pastor Sheila Giles have shared treasures and thoughts with us so please welcome them back.....
A Word from the Author
Prayer will become the highest priority in the lives of those who read this book. Especially, to those considering marriage, currently married and responsible for children. The book further communicates how God has created, through the covenant relationship of marriage, leadership roles that are established in spiritual unity. Also, this book highlights how the proper working of the husband and wife in their leadership roles secures the blessings of the Lord in the marriage, family and broader society.
The Leadership roles of the husband and wife are paramount to God's plan of blessings in the marriage, family, generations and broader society. Therefore, obedience to God and His word establishes God's order and facilitates the proper working and functioning of the marriage and family. Thus, establishing the peace, joy and increase the Lord has purposed in and through the marriage and family. Learn more in the newly released book: Prayer, Marriage and the Leadership Roles of the Husband and Wife , which can be obtained HERE.
Bishop Ken Giles and his wife Pastor Sheila Giles have decades of combined experience in Ministry and Christian Counseling. They both did undergraduate work at Prairie View A&M University Texas and were active in evangelistic work. Pastor Sheila Giles has served in church leadership for over two decades. She has a Master of Divinity from Houston Graduate School of Theology and is in the process of completing her Master of Business Administration (MBA) at Texas Woman's University.
Bishop Ken Giles began full-time ministry in 1993 as an inner-city Missions Leader in Dallas, Texas, while at Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship under Dr. Tony Evans. He later served there as Assistant Executive Director of their nonprofit corporation. In 1998, he returned to his hometown of Beaumont, Texas, and served as Pastor of Outreach at Cathedral of Faith Baptist Church and Executive Director of their nonprofit corporation. In 2000, Lincoln Bible Church was planted in the Beaumont/Port Arthur area and is now located in the Greater Houston Texas area where Bishop Ken Giles and his wife, Pastor Sheila Giles provide servant leadership.
Bishop Giles has a Master of Education Administration from Prairie View A&M University and a Master of Theology from Southeast Texas Theological Seminary. He is in the process of completing a dual doctorate in Christian Education and Theology from Kingsway Theological Seminary.
Hope you enjoyed today's post, friends and that you'll drop by each week for Tuesday Treasures, Thursday Thoughts and Saturday Spotlight.
Until next time, take care and God Bless.
PamT
Our guests today have visited with us before....Bishop Ken & Pastor Sheila Giles have shared treasures and thoughts with us so please welcome them back.....
A Word from the Author
Prayer will become the highest priority in the lives of those who read this book. Especially, to those considering marriage, currently married and responsible for children. The book further communicates how God has created, through the covenant relationship of marriage, leadership roles that are established in spiritual unity. Also, this book highlights how the proper working of the husband and wife in their leadership roles secures the blessings of the Lord in the marriage, family and broader society.The Leadership roles of the husband and wife are paramount to God's plan of blessings in the marriage, family, generations and broader society. Therefore, obedience to God and His word establishes God's order and facilitates the proper working and functioning of the marriage and family. Thus, establishing the peace, joy and increase the Lord has purposed in and through the marriage and family. Learn more in the newly released book: Prayer, Marriage and the Leadership Roles of the Husband and Wife , which can be obtained HERE.
Bishop Ken Giles and his wife Pastor Sheila Giles have decades of combined experience in Ministry and Christian Counseling. They both did undergraduate work at Prairie View A&M University Texas and were active in evangelistic work. Pastor Sheila Giles has served in church leadership for over two decades. She has a Master of Divinity from Houston Graduate School of Theology and is in the process of completing her Master of Business Administration (MBA) at Texas Woman's University.Bishop Ken Giles began full-time ministry in 1993 as an inner-city Missions Leader in Dallas, Texas, while at Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship under Dr. Tony Evans. He later served there as Assistant Executive Director of their nonprofit corporation. In 1998, he returned to his hometown of Beaumont, Texas, and served as Pastor of Outreach at Cathedral of Faith Baptist Church and Executive Director of their nonprofit corporation. In 2000, Lincoln Bible Church was planted in the Beaumont/Port Arthur area and is now located in the Greater Houston Texas area where Bishop Ken Giles and his wife, Pastor Sheila Giles provide servant leadership.
Bishop Giles has a Master of Education Administration from Prairie View A&M University and a Master of Theology from Southeast Texas Theological Seminary. He is in the process of completing a dual doctorate in Christian Education and Theology from Kingsway Theological Seminary.
Hope you enjoyed today's post, friends and that you'll drop by each week for Tuesday Treasures, Thursday Thoughts and Saturday Spotlight.
Until next time, take care and God Bless.
PamT
August 16, 2018
#ThursdayThoughts with Diane Burton
Good Morning!
It is always a pleasure to bring back a previous guest. Diane Burton has shared treasures and been in our spotlight so please welcome her as she shares some thoughts with us today....
Thanks so much, Pam, for inviting me to your blog today.
When someone says write about anything, I’m overwhelmed. So many thoughts. How do I choose? I try to narrow down the choices. What’s important to me? That’s easy. Family. Five years ago, we moved to be close to our only (at the time) two grandchildren. Last summer, my son and his family moved close to us. After twenty-some years, my whole family is close by. I can see all the grandkids (now there are 5) any time. And they can visit.
Not growing up with grandparents close by, I didn’t realize the importance. Now, as a grandparent myself, I do. I can share my experiences. I can tell them stories about their mother/father. Show them pictures of their mommy/daddy when they were little. We play games like “who’s this?” with family pictures. I can tell them about my parents (now deceased) and my grandparents. Family history can be passed on.
I know I’m blessed to have family close.
In my new release, NUMBERS NEVER LIE, a romantic suspense, Maggie loses her brother in a car accident. With her parents deceased, she’s lost her whole family. Devastating. That loss becomes an impetus for her to discover if it really was an accident.
NUMBERS NEVER LIE
A Romantic Suspense
By Diane Burton
Release Date: July 9, 2018
Length: approx. 80,000 words
Available at Amazon http://a.co/gUmO9wZ
Free with Kindle Unlimited
A shocking secret brings danger to Jack Sinclair and his sister Maggie.
As kids, they were the fearless threesome. As adults, Jack's an accountant; Drew, a lawyer; Maggie, a teacher and camping troop leader. Upon returning from a weekend camping trip, Maggie receives horrifying news. She refuses to believe her brother Jack’s fatal car crash was an accident. If the police won’t investigate, she’ll do it herself. Convincing Drew Campbell to help is her only recourse.
Drew Campbell was too busy to return his best friend’s phone call. Too busy to attend a camping meeting important to his teen daughter. Too busy to stay in touch with Jack. Logic and reason indicate Jack’s accident was just that--an accident caused by fatigue and fog. Prodded by guilt, he’ll help Maggie even if he thinks she’s wrong.
A break-in at Jack’s condo convinces Maggie she’s right. Then her home is searched. What did Jack do that puts Maggie in danger?
Excerpt:
“Ms. Sinclair?” the sheriff deputy said. “I’m calling about your brother, Jack Sinclair.”
Alarm shot through Maggie’s veins. She heard bits and pieces through the roar in her ears. “Regret to inform you . . . accident . . . early yesterday morning—”
She slid to the floor, the kitchen cupboard at her back. The phone clattered on the white vinyl.
“Ma’am?” the man on the phone said. “Can we call someone for you? Ma’am?”
Maggie pressed her forehead against her knees and shook.
“Maggie? What is it?” Drew picked up the phone.
She could still hear the deputy. “Ma’am? Are you all right?”
When she didn’t answer either of them, Drew talked to the deputy. She barely heard his words. After he replaced the receiver, she raised her head. “Jack is dead.”
His face reflected the anguish crawling through her. “I know.”
Numbers Never Lie is available at Amazon.
About the Author:
Diane Burton combines her love of mystery, adventure, science fiction and romance into writing romantic fiction. Besides writing science fiction romance, she writes romantic suspense, and cozy mysteries. Diane and her husband live in West Michigan. They have two children and five grandchildren.
For more info and excerpts from her books, visit Diane’s website: http://www.dianeburton.com
Connect with Diane Burton online
Blog: http://dianeburton.blogspot.com/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/dmburton72
Facebook: http://facebook.com/dianeburtonauthor
Goodreads: Diane Burton Author
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/dmburton72/
Sign up for Diane’s new release alert: http://eepurl.com/bdHtYf
Wow...sounds like another great read, Diane! We certainly wish you the best of luck and God's blessings with your new book.
Hope you enjoyed today's post, friends, and that you'll check back regularly for Tuesday Treasures, Thursday Thoughts and Saturday Spotlight.
Until next time, take care and God bless.
PamT
It is always a pleasure to bring back a previous guest. Diane Burton has shared treasures and been in our spotlight so please welcome her as she shares some thoughts with us today....
Thanks so much, Pam, for inviting me to your blog today.
When someone says write about anything, I’m overwhelmed. So many thoughts. How do I choose? I try to narrow down the choices. What’s important to me? That’s easy. Family. Five years ago, we moved to be close to our only (at the time) two grandchildren. Last summer, my son and his family moved close to us. After twenty-some years, my whole family is close by. I can see all the grandkids (now there are 5) any time. And they can visit.
Not growing up with grandparents close by, I didn’t realize the importance. Now, as a grandparent myself, I do. I can share my experiences. I can tell them stories about their mother/father. Show them pictures of their mommy/daddy when they were little. We play games like “who’s this?” with family pictures. I can tell them about my parents (now deceased) and my grandparents. Family history can be passed on.
I know I’m blessed to have family close.
In my new release, NUMBERS NEVER LIE, a romantic suspense, Maggie loses her brother in a car accident. With her parents deceased, she’s lost her whole family. Devastating. That loss becomes an impetus for her to discover if it really was an accident.
NUMBERS NEVER LIEA Romantic Suspense
By Diane Burton
Release Date: July 9, 2018
Length: approx. 80,000 words
Available at Amazon http://a.co/gUmO9wZ
Free with Kindle Unlimited
A shocking secret brings danger to Jack Sinclair and his sister Maggie.
As kids, they were the fearless threesome. As adults, Jack's an accountant; Drew, a lawyer; Maggie, a teacher and camping troop leader. Upon returning from a weekend camping trip, Maggie receives horrifying news. She refuses to believe her brother Jack’s fatal car crash was an accident. If the police won’t investigate, she’ll do it herself. Convincing Drew Campbell to help is her only recourse.
Drew Campbell was too busy to return his best friend’s phone call. Too busy to attend a camping meeting important to his teen daughter. Too busy to stay in touch with Jack. Logic and reason indicate Jack’s accident was just that--an accident caused by fatigue and fog. Prodded by guilt, he’ll help Maggie even if he thinks she’s wrong.
A break-in at Jack’s condo convinces Maggie she’s right. Then her home is searched. What did Jack do that puts Maggie in danger?
Excerpt:
“Ms. Sinclair?” the sheriff deputy said. “I’m calling about your brother, Jack Sinclair.”
Alarm shot through Maggie’s veins. She heard bits and pieces through the roar in her ears. “Regret to inform you . . . accident . . . early yesterday morning—”
She slid to the floor, the kitchen cupboard at her back. The phone clattered on the white vinyl.
“Ma’am?” the man on the phone said. “Can we call someone for you? Ma’am?”
Maggie pressed her forehead against her knees and shook.
“Maggie? What is it?” Drew picked up the phone.
She could still hear the deputy. “Ma’am? Are you all right?”
When she didn’t answer either of them, Drew talked to the deputy. She barely heard his words. After he replaced the receiver, she raised her head. “Jack is dead.”
His face reflected the anguish crawling through her. “I know.”
Numbers Never Lie is available at Amazon.
About the Author:Diane Burton combines her love of mystery, adventure, science fiction and romance into writing romantic fiction. Besides writing science fiction romance, she writes romantic suspense, and cozy mysteries. Diane and her husband live in West Michigan. They have two children and five grandchildren.
For more info and excerpts from her books, visit Diane’s website: http://www.dianeburton.com
Connect with Diane Burton online
Blog: http://dianeburton.blogspot.com/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/dmburton72
Facebook: http://facebook.com/dianeburtonauthor
Goodreads: Diane Burton Author
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/dmburton72/
Sign up for Diane’s new release alert: http://eepurl.com/bdHtYf
Wow...sounds like another great read, Diane! We certainly wish you the best of luck and God's blessings with your new book.
Hope you enjoyed today's post, friends, and that you'll check back regularly for Tuesday Treasures, Thursday Thoughts and Saturday Spotlight.
Until next time, take care and God bless.
PamT
August 14, 2018
#TuesdayTreasures with Rebecca Wetzler
Good Morning from Alaska!
My dad and I flew up here on Sunday (12th) and will return to Louisiana on the 22nd. I am unplugging (no computer, writing longhand...) while on this vacation, but never fear, I've scheduled our guests posts for the duration.
Today's guest was introduced to you last month when she shared some thoughts with us so please welcome Rebecca Wetzler back to share something she treasures....
TREASURE YOUR FAITH
What is faith? Webster defines it as ‘allegiance to duty or a person; firm belief in something for which there is no proof; complete trust, something that is believed especially with strong conviction.’ What do you have faith in? We can have faith in ourselves, in our innate abilities, in family loyalty, in the education system, in the country’s ideals, in those in leadership roles, or in a ‘Higher Power.’ There are things we have faith in that we take for granted. We have faith in gravity to keep our feet on the ground; we believe the sun will come up in the morning, we know wind is a powerful force though we cannot see it.
Why do we need faith? The faith pendulum swings from what we take for granted to what we need to survive. Unless a person knows what and why they believe, they can be swayed to follow the latest trend. It’s not a big deal if we are talking about fashion sense, but it is critical to know what you believe to have a solid sense of self. Everyone needs a sense of purpose and meaning for life. Without faith in reliable truths, we can drift through life without direction, without achieving our God-given potential, and end up being persuaded to go places and do things we never intended. Also, it is key we believe in reliable truths, not ones that will eventually deceive and fail us.
How can we grow faith? I believe to have a sense of self a person needs to be nurtured spiritually. My spiritual faith comes from the Lord, it is one of my greatest treasures. He provides the true foundation upon which I base the essentials of my character, my morals, my ethics, and he governs how I treat others. My faith grows continually through circumstances where he proves over and over I can trust him. While, for example, I can trust the education system to impart knowledge, I do not necessarily have faith it will produce wisdom. I can trust my wages pay on my bills, although I do not have faith money brings happiness. With God, however, I can trust that the end result of spiritual faith in him will bring growth in all areas of my life. When we lose faith in others, in ourselves, in things around us, that’s when our faith in God can grow. He sustains my hope while I struggle in the valley of disappointments, and he celebrates my victories when I am on the mountaintop of success. When life is not going my way, I know where to look for continual encouragement and direction; when life is going well, I know who deserves my thanks and trust.
So again, what is faith? I like the Hebrews 11:1 definition: ‘Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.’ Substance implies materiality, something of weighty importance. Evidence attests reality, something actually exists. Spiritual faith is of utmost importance, a treasure worth so much more than anything of earthly material value. It’s unfortunate that sometimes I reach rock bottom before I observe his outstretched hand patiently waiting, waiting for me to find a little faith, even faith as small as mustard seed, to take hold of his promises. Once I chose to believe, spiritual faith wells up from deep within my soul, it spreads a warm glow of hope throughout my being and re-establishes the tone of complete trust in the Lord. Faith makes all the difference in my life, the difference to believe there is unseen evidence that he is at work for my good regardless of my circumstances. By treasuring faith, I have learned to find blessing in brokenness, joy after a night of mourning, peace while the storms of life rage. I live by faith in God because I can sense his presence with every fiber of my being. May your soul find and treasure such faith to bring more meaning into your life.
Rebecca Wetzler, originally a California girl, has lived in Alaska since she was eight years old. The oldest of five children, she was often needed in the surrogate mother role; therefore, she matured quickly. From early in life she was an avid reader, and subsequently developed an interest in someday writing her own books. Her favorite school subject was English writing assignments. To support her two children, she completed an accounting degree, towing her interest in writing along by minoring in English. Her successful career included advancing from an accounts payable clerk to a financial analyst—a far cry from the Christian author of her heartfelt dreams.
She has been a believer from her earliest memories as a small child in Sunday School asking Jesus into her heart. As her life progressed, Rebecca has realized her faith gives her a steady spiritual regrounding to weather the drama of real life, and she wants to share the spiritual truths with others so they may also follow God’s light past the world’s darkness. Bread Box for the Broken is her first book, and she has ideas for more devotionals, some Bible studies, maybe Christian romance fiction with mystery and suspense. It is important for her to share that faith in Christ is her foundation for challenging and purposefully overcoming life-long struggles with loneliness, self-esteem, depression, chronic pain from migraines and a permanently injured neck, and finally unexplained heart failure. Forced to early retire, she really doesn’t know what the future holds, but she knows Who holds her future.
Rebecca J Wetzlerwww.rebeccawetzler.net Holy Spirit Dove bloghttps://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-j-wetzler-7b763a49/https://www.facebook.com/authorrebeccajwetzler/?ref=bookmarkshttps://twitter.com/rdove1919
Hope you enjoyed the post friends and that you'll check back weekly for Tuesday Treasures, Thursday Thoughts and Saturday Spotlight.
Meanwhile, Rebecca's book, Breadbox for the Broken can be purchased at her website in print and Ebook as well as Amazon for Kindle and in print also!
Until next time, take care and God Bless.
PamT
My dad and I flew up here on Sunday (12th) and will return to Louisiana on the 22nd. I am unplugging (no computer, writing longhand...) while on this vacation, but never fear, I've scheduled our guests posts for the duration.
Today's guest was introduced to you last month when she shared some thoughts with us so please welcome Rebecca Wetzler back to share something she treasures....
TREASURE YOUR FAITH
What is faith? Webster defines it as ‘allegiance to duty or a person; firm belief in something for which there is no proof; complete trust, something that is believed especially with strong conviction.’ What do you have faith in? We can have faith in ourselves, in our innate abilities, in family loyalty, in the education system, in the country’s ideals, in those in leadership roles, or in a ‘Higher Power.’ There are things we have faith in that we take for granted. We have faith in gravity to keep our feet on the ground; we believe the sun will come up in the morning, we know wind is a powerful force though we cannot see it.
Why do we need faith? The faith pendulum swings from what we take for granted to what we need to survive. Unless a person knows what and why they believe, they can be swayed to follow the latest trend. It’s not a big deal if we are talking about fashion sense, but it is critical to know what you believe to have a solid sense of self. Everyone needs a sense of purpose and meaning for life. Without faith in reliable truths, we can drift through life without direction, without achieving our God-given potential, and end up being persuaded to go places and do things we never intended. Also, it is key we believe in reliable truths, not ones that will eventually deceive and fail us.How can we grow faith? I believe to have a sense of self a person needs to be nurtured spiritually. My spiritual faith comes from the Lord, it is one of my greatest treasures. He provides the true foundation upon which I base the essentials of my character, my morals, my ethics, and he governs how I treat others. My faith grows continually through circumstances where he proves over and over I can trust him. While, for example, I can trust the education system to impart knowledge, I do not necessarily have faith it will produce wisdom. I can trust my wages pay on my bills, although I do not have faith money brings happiness. With God, however, I can trust that the end result of spiritual faith in him will bring growth in all areas of my life. When we lose faith in others, in ourselves, in things around us, that’s when our faith in God can grow. He sustains my hope while I struggle in the valley of disappointments, and he celebrates my victories when I am on the mountaintop of success. When life is not going my way, I know where to look for continual encouragement and direction; when life is going well, I know who deserves my thanks and trust.
So again, what is faith? I like the Hebrews 11:1 definition: ‘Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.’ Substance implies materiality, something of weighty importance. Evidence attests reality, something actually exists. Spiritual faith is of utmost importance, a treasure worth so much more than anything of earthly material value. It’s unfortunate that sometimes I reach rock bottom before I observe his outstretched hand patiently waiting, waiting for me to find a little faith, even faith as small as mustard seed, to take hold of his promises. Once I chose to believe, spiritual faith wells up from deep within my soul, it spreads a warm glow of hope throughout my being and re-establishes the tone of complete trust in the Lord. Faith makes all the difference in my life, the difference to believe there is unseen evidence that he is at work for my good regardless of my circumstances. By treasuring faith, I have learned to find blessing in brokenness, joy after a night of mourning, peace while the storms of life rage. I live by faith in God because I can sense his presence with every fiber of my being. May your soul find and treasure such faith to bring more meaning into your life.
Rebecca Wetzler, originally a California girl, has lived in Alaska since she was eight years old. The oldest of five children, she was often needed in the surrogate mother role; therefore, she matured quickly. From early in life she was an avid reader, and subsequently developed an interest in someday writing her own books. Her favorite school subject was English writing assignments. To support her two children, she completed an accounting degree, towing her interest in writing along by minoring in English. Her successful career included advancing from an accounts payable clerk to a financial analyst—a far cry from the Christian author of her heartfelt dreams. She has been a believer from her earliest memories as a small child in Sunday School asking Jesus into her heart. As her life progressed, Rebecca has realized her faith gives her a steady spiritual regrounding to weather the drama of real life, and she wants to share the spiritual truths with others so they may also follow God’s light past the world’s darkness. Bread Box for the Broken is her first book, and she has ideas for more devotionals, some Bible studies, maybe Christian romance fiction with mystery and suspense. It is important for her to share that faith in Christ is her foundation for challenging and purposefully overcoming life-long struggles with loneliness, self-esteem, depression, chronic pain from migraines and a permanently injured neck, and finally unexplained heart failure. Forced to early retire, she really doesn’t know what the future holds, but she knows Who holds her future.
Rebecca J Wetzlerwww.rebeccawetzler.net Holy Spirit Dove bloghttps://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-j-wetzler-7b763a49/https://www.facebook.com/authorrebeccajwetzler/?ref=bookmarkshttps://twitter.com/rdove1919
Hope you enjoyed the post friends and that you'll check back weekly for Tuesday Treasures, Thursday Thoughts and Saturday Spotlight.Meanwhile, Rebecca's book, Breadbox for the Broken can be purchased at her website in print and Ebook as well as Amazon for Kindle and in print also!
Until next time, take care and God Bless.
PamT
