Heather Greer's Blog, page 23

Main Character Monday: Nicki Mayfield – Perfectly Arranged

Welcome to Main Character Monday. I’m excited to introduce you to Nicki Mayfield from Perfectly Arranged by Liana George. I spent some time with Nicki recently as she shared with me and the rest of the Perfectly Arranged Launch Team her exciting and unexpected journey. Thank you for joining me.

If you could choose only one thing to buy without money being an issue, what would you buy?

Since a shopping spree at my favorite place, The Container Store, would consist of a lot more than just one item, I’d have to say I’d buy a new car. My current ride, a 2009 Toyota Yaris, has a cracked windshield, a dented door, hubcaps zip tied to the wheels, and a front bumper held on with duct tape. It can be a little suspicious looking when I show up at clients’ homes, so it might be the best use of the money!

Wow! I think you may be right. It’s always good to put your best foot forward when dealing with clients. Besides, that doesn’t sound safe. Next question. The New Testament tells the story of two sisters who react to Jesus visiting in very different ways. Mary chooses to spend her time with him, while Martha chooses to see to the physical details of his visit. Are you more a Mary or Martha?

Oh, I’m definitely a Martha. As a professional organizer, I’m all about planning and details. They are essential for me to do a good job for my clients. However, God’s been showing me the peace and wisdom that comes from being more like Mary and sitting at Jesus’ feet, so I’m trying to lean into that these days.

Growth is rarely easy but always worth it. “And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” – Micah 6:8. How have you lived out this verse in your life? How has it made a difference?

Although I’m a new Christ-follower, I think I’m naturally someone who is merciful and seeks justice, especially for those who can’t help themselves or when a wrong needs to be righted. When I see those things happening, I can’t help but act or do what I can to assist, not for others’ approval but because my heart can’t handle seeing pain and suffering. Walking humbly has been a little harder since I like to take charge, make plans, and get the job done without seeking anyone’s guidance.  But I’m realizing that’s not what God wants us to do or be. He doesn’t need me to be in control and think more importantly of myself and my abilities. He wants me to be an obedient vessel He can use, a servant who walks with Him, not out on my own.

The gift of a tender heart is a wonderful one, although at times I’m sure it makes life more painful. What scripture verse would you claim as a life verse?

Probably Proverbs 16:9 – “We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps.”

As an organizer, I tend to make my own plans then ask God to join me on the journey. However, I’m learning that He has everything perfectly arranged and I need to follow rather than lead. I cling to this Scripture to keep me grounded.

A great reminder. If there was one message you could give those reading this interview, what would that be?

Things aren’t always what they seem, and we shouldn’t be rash to make judgments, especially about people. I’ve done that with my mother and Ms. O’Connor, and I was wrong on both counts. It’s a message I’m seriously taking to heart myself.

What one hobby/interest would you keep if you had to give every other hobby up?

I’d say traveling. Before meeting Ms. O’Connor and accompanying her to China, I’d never left the United States. Now that I’ve had experience engaging with other cultures and peoples, I’m fascinated about the rest of the world. I’m hoping it’s something I can keep doing on a regular basis – that is, if I don’t go crazy at The Container Store too often!

We’re almost done. But before you go, let me ask you a few rapid fire questions just for fun. 

Indoors or outdoors: Indoors

Reading or writing: Reading

Apples or pears: Apples

Early bird or night owl: Night owl

And our last question. Nicki, how would you describe Liana George?  Perfectionist, hard-working, kind

Thank you for joining us today. I’ve enjoyed the opportunity to get to know you better through the interview and through Perfectly Arranged. Readers, I encourage you to find out more about Liana and Nicki below. Then, use the link to purchase your copy of Perfectly Arranged. 

I hope to see you Wednesday when Liana takes over Wednesday in the Word. If you have questions for Liana or Nicki, leave them in the comments. I’m sure either of the ladies would be happy to answer them!

More about Liana George and Perfectly Arranged:

Liana George is a sought-after speaker, blogger, and author. Before pursuing a career in writing, she was a professional organizer and the former owner of By George Organizing Solutions in Houston, Texas. Her debut novel, Perfectly Arranged, was inspired by one of her eccentric clients and Liana’s love for China, where she lived for two and a half years. When she’s not putting things in order or scribbling away, you can find her reading, traveling, or playing tennis.

Connect with Liana at: www.lianageorge.com or through any of these social media platforms

https://www.facebook.com/LianaGWriter/

https://www.instagram.com/lianaygeorge/

https://www.pinterest.com/liana2404/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCB8n4ov17hQo9LN9fRRTTgQ or https://bit.ly/BGOSYTchannel (organizing videos) https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCf9yjXiFnOS_wTe3dVDKCkwor https://bit.ly/LGWriterYT (writer videos)

https://www.linkedin.com/in/liana-george/

Amazon Author page and where you can get your copy of Perfectly Arranged:

Goodreads Author page:

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/21850379.Liana_George

BookBub Author page:

https://www.bookbub.com/authors/liana-george-5a193403-457a-44f5-8e8b-3087edf455b6

Mailing List Landing Page:

https://mailchi.mp/c17c58aaf871/lianageorgelandingpage

 

 

The post Main Character Monday: Nicki Mayfield – Perfectly Arranged appeared first on Heather Greer.

On Tour with Celebrate Lit: Wonders of the Galaxy

About the Book

Book:  Wonders of the Galaxy

Author: Various Elk Lake Authors

Genre: Speculative Fiction

Release date: September 15, 2021

 

A series of space tales based on parables from the Holy Bible.

 

Click here to get your copy!

MY THOUGHTS:

I love the idea behind this book! With three teen/young adult boys, I’ve often felt like they missed out on having a Christian counterpart to the mainstream books, movies, games, and shows they enjoy. This book is a step in the right direction to filling that gap while keeping a strong faith-based message. Itt’s not the only one to do this, but it is more sci-fi than a lot of the other books I’ve seen for this age group.

I enjoyed many of the stories included in the collection. The re-imaginings of the parables teens may have heard a million times keep the spiritual messages fresh and entertaining. They did that for me, and I haven’t been a teen in quite a while. I enjoyed the characters and worlds these authors created as well.

There were a couple stories that pulled me out of the story though because they seemed like a thinly veiled warning about current situations we’re facing due to the pandemic. I may be wrong, as themes of government cover ups and lies and eradication of people due to differing beliefs are not new, but these stories seemed a little too on the nose to be coincidence.

I don’t read pandemic stories. Reading gets my mind away from all the mess. For me, the stories that did this instantly made it harder for me to stay in the stories, enjoy them, and take away the meaning the author wanted me to take away. I fully realize others many not have this reading preference. So, I give this collection 4 out of 5 stars.

 

About the Authors

Jason William Karpf is a multitalented actor, musician, professor, and Jeopardy champion whose writing runs the gamut from true crime to speculative fiction.

 

 

 

Aaron Gansky is an award-winning novelist and Dungeons and Dragonswhiz who lives for his children, coaching football, and watch Marvel movies.

 

 

 

Erica Marie Hogan’s books range from long ago historical dramas to frozen fantasies on faraway planets. Regardless of where the story originates, it comes from the heart—because Erica believes genres are transcendent.

 

 

 

Brett Heaston is the creator of the Message to Kings podcast and the author of The Resilience Awakening. He lives in the Pacific Northwest, a history nerd, and an adventure junkie.

 

 

 

Steve South is a traveler, a karaoke singer, and a profound believer in the power for stories to move people; his first novel, The Queen of Steel and Fire, won the 2019 Minnesota Author Project Award for YA fiction.

 

 

 

L.G. Westlake lives in the “Land of Enchantment,” but also lives a dream life in far-flung galaxies where she regularly charts the unknown; her previous novels have included award-winning fantasies and thrillers.

 

 

 

M B Dahl is a wife, mother, and award-winning author of dystopian adventures. She loves dressing up like a warrior and fighting dragons, imaginary or real.

 

 

 

T.E. Bradford is an international bestselling author, a Selah award finalist, and a self-proclaimed geek who believes her writing is “a little piece of magic” given to her by God.

 

 

 

Travis W. Inman has been a cowboy, a missionary, a soldier, and more in his multi-storied career, and his stories reflect his diverse background. In his spare time, he searches for hidden treasure, both financial and culinary.

 

 

 

More from the EditorWHY A CHRISTIAN SPACE OPERA?

“What do you like to read,” I asked my seventeen-year-old grandson.

When he said he likes Space Opera, I had to admit I was lost. I love Science Fiction but didn’t know Space Opera was different. After ordering him a book, I started doing some research. Phrases like, “wildly popular” spoke to me.

Christians use a variety of fiction genres to reach their audiences. I wondered if we were losing younger readers because we are not being relevant to what interests them. Could this genre be presented in a way to encourage young readers to see new truths in the Bible?

Space Opera is a subgenre of science fiction and usually emphasizes space warfare, melodramatic space adventures, or chivalric romance. These themes, while occurring in outer space, will feature such elements as faster-than-light travel, futuristic weapons, and sophisticated technology.

Not surprising this genre is popular with kids today whose lives evolve around the latest technological advancement.

The name is a takeoff from “soap opera” because of its melodramatic presentation. Space operas emerged in the 1930s and continue to be produced in literature, film, comics, television, and video games.

As I pondered these concepts, an idea developed to present a Space Opera anthology, aimed at high school level, to use the parables as inspiration behind the stories. When I presented the idea to my publisher, I received an enthusiastic nod of approval. And the rest is history.

We are confident young people will enjoy these highly imaginative stories penned by some of Elk Lake’s best authors. Each story contains a synopsis of the related parable and how the parable is used in the telling of the story. Additionally, each story has an engaging graphic to whet the imagination.

To our knowledge, this is new for Christian publishing. We look forward to our readers’ comments and to Wonders of the Galaxy II in 2022.

inda Wood Rondeau

Project Manager

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, October 18

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 18

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, October 19

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 20

Cats in the Cradle Blog, October 20

Texas Book-aholic, October 21

Inklings and notions, October 22

By the Book, October 22

A Reader’s Brain, October 23

For Him and My Family, October 24

April Hayman, Author, October 24

deb’s Book Review, October 25

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 26

Blogging With Carol, October 26

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, October 27

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, October 28

Blossoms and Blessings, October 28

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, October 29

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, October 30

Pause for Tales, October 30

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, October 31

Giveaway

To celebrate their tour, the Various Elk Lake Authors are giving away the grand prize package of a book from each author in the anthology!! (Format may vary for each book)

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/122a1/wonders-of-the-galaxy-celebration-tour-giveaway

The post On Tour with Celebrate Lit: Wonders of the Galaxy appeared first on Heather Greer.

Wednesday in the Word: Music to God’s Ears

Psalm 96:11-12 NKJV “Let the heavens rejoice, and let the earth be glad; Let the sea roar, and all its fullness; Let the field be joyful, and all that is in it. Then all the trees of the woods will rejoice before the LORD.”

As I write this, it is a nearly perfect autumn day. While the leaves haven’t changed yet, tiny pops of color are starting to show.  The blue sky is filled with white cotton clouds. And the cool breeze blowing across my front porch is relaxing and promises no more exhausting heat of summer will come my way. At least not for today.

The breeze is just strong enough to coax a song from the wind chimes hanging at the corner of my porch. The music they create is not the tinny sound some might associate with chimes. These are larger chimes made of heavier metal. The result is a rich, pleasant ringing as the wooden disc in the middle taps each individual chime.

Days like today remind me that even in its fallen state, nature recognizes and praises its Creator. With the praise of the breeze bringing it to life, even my wind chime joins in the melody. It’s a powerful song that we, too, can enjoy if we’re willing to sit and listen a while.

Nature holds nothing back in its praise. It offers it freely, without premeditation. Hurricanes don’t stop it. A forest fire can’t suffocate it. Tornadoes can’t blow it away. In fact, they have their own voices to add to the praise.

Too often, people discount the natural wonders around them. They use up what it offers without thought and destroy it completely when it gets in their way. But today, as I sit here listening to my wind chimes, I think I want to learn from what I see and feel around me.

I want to praise my Creator as freely and naturally as the rest of His creation. My worship should spring up inside me without thought. I want it to blow like a relaxing autumn breeze over those I come in contact with and make my life sweet music to God’s ears.

What about you? Is there something from nature that makes you feel close to God and fuels your praise?

 

The post Wednesday in the Word: Music to God’s Ears appeared first on Heather Greer.

On Tour with Celebrate Lit: A Heart’s Forever Home

About the Book

Book: A Heart’s Forever Home

Author: Lena Nelson Dooley

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: August 17, 2021

A single lawyer whose clients think he needs a wife.

A woman who needs a forever home…or a forever family…or a forever love.

Although Traesa Killdare is a grown woman now, the discovery that her adoption wasn’t finalized sends her reeling. Especially when her beloved grandmother dies and the only siblings she’s ever known exile her from the family property without a penny to her name.

Wilson Pollard works hard for the best interest of his law clients, even those who think a marriage would make him more “suitable” in his career. And when the beloved granddaughter of a recently deceased client comes to him for help, he knows he must do whatever necessary to make her situation better.

As each of their circumstances worsen, a marriage of convenience seems the only answer for both. Traesa can’t help but fall for her new husband—the man who’s given her both his home and his name. But what will it take for Wilson to realize he loves her? Will a not-so-natural disaster open his eyes and heart?

MY THOUGHTS:  Traesa Killdare is a character readers will be happy to love. She’s smart, kind, hard-working, and gives of herself to keep those she loves safe. The rest of the characters, with rare exception, are equally likable, though most have flaws to keep them realistic.

The plot of the story is an interesting one as well. I’ve read a few marriage of convenience type books, and I don’t recall this particular set up from any of them. To me, it seemed like a fresh twist on the idea.

I wanted to love this story so much, but it didn’t happen for me. I liked it. But I didn’t fall in love with it. I don’t think it’s because of the story though. I think the author’s style of story telling and mine as a reader simply didn’t mix. Die-hard historical romance, marriage of convenience readers would most likely not feel the same.

Since it is a likable story, with a good plot, that I can recommend to fans of this style and genre, I give this book 3 out of 5 stars.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Lena Nelson Dooley has been an author for 36 years. Her 51st book released in June 2020. Raised in Arkansas, she married a Texan 56 years ago. They have lived in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex for decades. She is an active member of ACFW and one of the founding members the DFW local chapter. She’s often been a speaker for other writers’ groups and conferences, both as a keynote speaker and a workshop teacher. Her fans love reading her books filled with characters who grip your heart.

 

More from Lena

I’ve been a lover of history for decades. In college and graduate school, all my elective courses were history. Of course, I chose the countries and eras I wanted to learn about. When I began writing novels, my first one was a contemporary story. After that at least 75% or more of my novels have been historical, all the way from 1805 through the early 20th century.

One of the hallmarks of my historical novels is the authenticity I write into the stories. Because of the amount of research I’ve done over the years, I’m kind of an expert in 19thcentury history. My characters and their stories are completely fictional, but the other things in the book are mostly true. I search until I find what I need to know or until I reach a complete dead end.

The history of the orphan trains has interested me since I first learned about them. One of them ended in Fort Worth where a pastor and his wife helped find the last orphans a home. A few didn’t get a home, so they took them in. In the 20th century that became an orphanage, then a home for unwed mothers.

A Heart’s Forever Home has three settings—Fort Worth, Texas; Waco, Texas; and New York City. It’s a Marriage of Convenience story and much more. This is another type of story I like to read and I like to write. Finding a different reason for the necessity of the marriage is interesting.

I’d found an event that occurred north of Waco in 1896. It was so bizarre I wanted to include it in a book. It was a perfect fit for this story and became an important catalyst in the story.

I’m what’s called in the industry a seat-of-the-pants author, more or less. I do have the complete outline of the story in my head. When I sit down to write, I know where I’m going, but I don’t have every single scene plotted out as some authors do. And I pray… a lot. During the time I’m writing a book, God drops ideas into my thought processes. Not just while I’m writing, but other times, too. That’s the exciting thing about writing. This keeps it fresh for me.

When you’ve finished reading this story, I hope you’ll let me know what you think of it. I really like getting reader feedback.

Blog Stops

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 12

Maureen’s Musings, October 12

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 13

The Book Chic Blog, October 13

Texas Book-aholic, October 14

deb’s Book Review, October 14

Bizwings Blog, October 15

Reviewingbooksplusmore, October 15

By the Book, October 16

Kathleen’s Book Review, October 16

lakesidelivingsite, October 17

For Him and My Family, October 17

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, October 18

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 19

Inklings and notions, October 19

Vicky Sluiter, October 20

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, October 20

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, October 21

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 22

Joanna Bair, October 22

Bigreadersite, October 23

Mary Hake, October 23

Connie’s History Classroom, October 24

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, October 24

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, October 25

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, October 25

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Lena is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/11fe3/a-heart-s-forever-home-celebration-tour-giveaway

 

The post On Tour with Celebrate Lit: A Heart’s Forever Home appeared first on Heather Greer.

On Tour with Celebrate Lit: The Heart of Christmas

About the Book

Book: The Heart of Christmas

Author: The Mosaic Collection

Genre: Faith-Based Christmas Fiction

Release date: October 6, 2021

“At Christmas, we always…” And thus a tradition is born. The rituals stay the same, but if betrayal, illness, unfaithfulness, or tragedy strike, can cherished traditions survive?

When unexpected twists throw life out of kilter for the people in these stories, will beloved, time-honored customs lead them back to the heart of Christmas?

MY THOUGHTS: Wow! I am so happy I got to be part of this tour. If not, I would have missed this wonderful collection of Christmas themed novellas.

The title of the book fits perfectly as each story reflects some aspect of the true heart of Christmas. And while that may make you think it’s going to be full of poignant, heart-touching stories, which it is, there are also many light-hearted moments that bring an easy smile as you read.

I originally wanted to include my favorite story from this collection as part of my review, but I can’t. The touching stories that made me cry were beautifully written. And the less serious stories balanced them out, lifting my mood with reminders of the joys of Christmas. This collection truly works together to make one complete book where losing any of the included stories would take away a vital part.

I give this collection 5 out of 5 stars and believe it should be on everyone’s list to help kick off the Christmas season.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Authors

The Mosaic Collection launched in 2018 as an international community of independently published authors who approach life, faith, and writing together. Some have vast writing experience, others are somewhat new to the journey. Under The Mosaic Collection’s banner, they’ve published more than 20 novels and four anthologies.

With over 150 years of collective writing experience, Mosaic’s award-winning and best-selling authors are active leaders and members in prominent writing organizations. The goal of The Mosaic Collection is to encourage and uplift readers worldwide, offer hope in story form, and share the unconditional love and forgiveness found in Jesus Christ.

 

More from The Mosaic Collection

The Mosaic Collection authors welcome you into our hearts, homes, and lives and offer you tiny glimpses into our families and our favorite traditions.

 

Janice L. Dick

Christmas is always a special time of year. I love the festive reds and greens, strings of colored lights and gift-giving, but there is much that distracts us from the real meaning of the season. How do we hang onto the genuine, historical truths of the Savior’s birth? One of the traditions in our family is to read the Christmas story before we open gifts, thus realigning our focus to the most precious gift God gave us in Jesus. Visualize a fire in the grate, family lounging on every available couch, chair, and floor space; and one of the youngest grandchildren reading from the Bible, his eyes following his finger across the page. Once again, the age-old story comes to life as we hear of angels, shepherds, and a young couple keeping watch over the Christ-child in the manger. Maybe this year we will come up with a new way to direct our thoughts to the greatest gift ever given. To the nativity.

 

Sara Davison

The word Christmas immediately conjures up warm memories of church services, family, gifts, and food for me. The traditions my family engages in every year infuse this celebration of Christ’s birth with nostalgia and meaning. For me, one of the most meaningful traditions is setting out the nativity scene. Although the location has changed from mantel to coffee table to windowsill as we have moved from house to house, the little figures—the wise men, kneeling shepherds, Mary and Joseph gazing down at the manger with adoring looks on their painted faces, the cows and sheep curled in the corner of the straw-strewn wooden stable, the angel hovering above, the tiny baby in the manger—have never changed. I take my time setting up the display, slowly unwrapping pieces that have become a little worn and chipped over the years of being lovingly handled or played with by tiny toddler fingers. Each piece calls to mind another aspect of the beloved story in Luke 2. The nativity scene is the focal point of my decorations. In the midst of all the crazy busyness that can be the Christmas season, it grounds me and reminds me what this time of year is truly about.

 

Stacy Monson

Christmas is all about family for me – my nuclear family, grandkids, and in-laws, my family of dear friends, and the family of believers who rejoice at the birth of Christ. We’ve hung onto some traditions and welcomed new ones. As life situations change, we try to adapt and make the best of it, because regardless of what the holiday ends up looking like, it’s being with family that counts. So for me, Christmas is about celebrating the Christ Child with love, laughter, food and fun. It is indeed a time for celebration.

 

Milla Holt

Our four children are still young, so my love for Christmas is quadrupled because of their enthusiasm. We begin the buildup with an Advent calendar starting on December 1st. Every morning until the 24th, they open the day’s box, read the little lesson, and do a treasure hunt.

More than any other holiday, Christmas lends itself so beautifully to teaching them about the loving all-powerful God who knows exactly what it means to be human. They understand and marvel at how Jesus, the creator and Lord of the universe, once needed a diaper and had to be

potty trained. He had to learn to read, write, and spell just like they do. I love the reminder that one of his names is Immanuel: God with us.

 

Deb Elkink

Mom (a visual artist and farm-girl cook) and Dad (an imaginative storyteller of deep enthusiasm) made Christmas a celebratory holiday every year! Thanks to Mom, the food not only tasted fantastic, but the table and tree and household decorations were gorgeous. Thanks to Dad, our days were full of the magic of wonder (he actually climbed onto the roof carrying bells on Christmas Eve to herald Santa’s arrival) and the mystery of the Incarnation (reading the Luke story about the Ultimate Gift before a single package was opened). We were diligent church-goers except on holidays—including Christmas—when we would focus on family time and not attend the special services. Instead, following an afternoon of snowmobiling, and then mugs of rich cocoa around the fireplace, we five kids would wear our hand-sewn PJs, sing carols, and snack on expensive delicacies: Halva and roasted nuts and cheeses from around the world.

 

Candace West

My favorite thing about Christmas is fellowship with family and friends. At the end of the year, we gather at our homes or church to celebrate the birth and life of Christ. Because He is at the heart of our love for one another, He is the One Who strengthens the bond of our fellowship. Whether we’re opening gifts, gathering around the table, sharing laughter over cups of cocoa, or playing board games, I feel His love abiding through and within my loved ones. And I feel the whisper of His promise that one day all Believers will be gathered around His table of fellowship for eternity. Christmas is only a foretaste of our glorious future with Him.

 

Lisa Renee

What I love about Christmas is seeing extended family come together in one place, sharing memories of the year over delicious food. Most of all, I love how the world stops to celebrate a significant event in history, our Savior’s birth.

 

Brenda S. Anderson

There’s so much to love about Christmas! Music, gifts, twinkling lights, snow, decorations, chocolate, family time. It’s all so bright and cheery, and the world is focused on Jesus. The world may not understand who Jesus is and what He did for us, but there’s no better opportunity to show Him to the world. The opportunities to serve are vast, and being God’s hands and feet is a beautiful way to shine His light. Really, showing other who Jesus is, apart from the trappings, is what I love most about Christmas.

 

Eleanor Bertin

When I was six years old and just learning to read, I unwrapped a package I’d received for Christmas but didn’t know what it was. Puzzling over it, my dad came alongside me. Slowly, painstakingly, I sounded out the word Slippers on the label. Patiently, so unlike his usual brusque way, my father helped me. I cherished the nearness of him, always fearful he would give up on me. But he didn’t. That is one of my most treasured memories of him. There are others, too, like the one eleven years later when after my rebellious stint, my heavenly Father patiently and painstakingly began a transformation in my heart. My dad responded with what I now realize was his best effort at encouragement. “I’m glad to see you’ve made some changes.”

Christmas is always precious to me because of the memories it holds of how the Word made flesh worked His Word in me. He has never given up on me despite my slowness of heart to trust and obey. In painful and pleasant ways, for over six decades, He has assured me of His bountiful forgiveness and lavish love.

 

Chautona Havig

Tree night in the Havig house is most definitely our family’s favorite tradition. Even our older children tend to come home for the annual trek to the lot, the annual argument over which tree, and the annual popcorn and cranberry stringing party. It all ends with the final decorating. You’ll hear, “Oh, here’s your train!” or “Where’s my baby’s first Christmas?” as everyone jostles to get their ornaments in just the right place.  It’s chaos with popcorn all over the floor, Christmas songs belting out in our tiny house, and laughter. Tons of laughter. My personal favorite moment is when everyone has gone to bed and it’s just me in my dimly lit living room. That beauty, the memories, that laughter… it’s what I consider the Lord’s gift to me. I just get it early and it lasts a whole month!

 

Lorna Seilstad

Whether your family celebrates the Christmas season with special foods, a colorful light display, or a tree handpicked from a farm, I’m sure you have your own treasured traditions. Christmas traditions are one of the things I like best about the season. Our traditions make our families unique, and in a world where everything constantly changes, they remind us some things remain the same. There’s comfort in honoring Christmas traditions. They keep us connected to our past, help us rediscover our families, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

 

Johnnie Alexander

My children’s Christmases were very different than the ones from my own childhood. Sleds and ice skates could be found under our Christmas tree, a baked ham on the dining table, and snow-covered hills outside our door. My kids, raised in Florida, never received “winter toys.” A roasted turkey usually graced our dining table but grilling out was also an option. Yet our Christmases were also similar. I passed along to my children the tradition of opening our stockings first—and everyone in the family has one. As adults, it seems they anticipate the goodies hiding inside their stockings even more than the gaily wrapped presents under their trees. Most important, though, is that my children are now sharing with their children the truth that my parents shared with my siblings and me—that the baby in the manger is our Lord Incarnate and Savior of the World.

 

Thank you for celebrating the release of The Heart of Christmas. We pray the stories within this anthology will fill you with love and joy and prepare your heart for the greatest celebration this season—remembering the birth of our Savior. What a sacrifice! What a gift!  What love.

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 8

CarpeDiem, October 8

For Him and My Family, October 9

deb’s Book Review, October 10

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 11

Joanne Markey, October 11

Texas Book-aholic, October 12

Inklings and notions, October 13

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, October 14

Splashes of Joy, October 14

By the Book, October 15

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, October 16

Older & Smarter?, October 17

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, October 17

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 18

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, October 19

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, October 20

Mary Hake, October 20

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, October 21

Giveaway

To celebrate their tour, The Mosaic Collection is giving away the grand prize package of a $30 Amazon gift card, two copies of The Heart of Christmas in paperback, and a $10 coupon to Mosaic’s Etsy shop!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/11fdf/the-heart-of-christmas-celebration-tour-giveaway

The post On Tour with Celebrate Lit: The Heart of Christmas appeared first on Heather Greer.

Wednesday in the Word: Unbroken

Ecclesiastes 4:12 NASB “And if one can overpower him who is alone, two can resist him. A cord of three stands is not quickly torn apart.”

The 2nd Annual Once Upon A Page Writers Retreat was held last week. I love getting together with Amy and Erin when we do our videos, and the retreat is an extra special time of camaraderie. This year, eleven other writers joined us for lessons, food, games, and a quiet place with plenty of time devoted to writing. That was fourteen people coming together to encourage each other in their writing!

There were a lot of laughs shared. We helped each other brainstorm problem areas in our stories. We even had a couple of impromptu story times as a couple authors shared what they’re working on. It was

a great time.

The best thing about writing retreats and conferences is coming away energized. I don’t think it matters if you’re an introvert or an extrovert. Though, if you’re an introvert like me, you might experience a deeper exhaustion physically after the event. But even with the need to take a nap and enjoy the silence driving me for a couple days after I return home, I still have a renewed energy for writing. The excitement for this ministry buoys inside me.

 

That’s the strength of connecting with other writers. Alone in my office, discouragement is hard to face. The bad review, the interrupted writing time, and even the occasional writer’s block (along with a myriad of other happenings) can cause my passion to wane.

When I add in my writing friends, discouragement cannot resist our combined defense. Together, we build
each other up. As a team united in our love of writing, we push each other to greater success, growth, and keeping a positive attitude.

But we have a third cord to strengthen us even more. We have faith. Our love of what we do unites us. So does our love of God and living the lives He has called us to. With the cord of faith tying us together, we don’t have to worry about our differences. Our passion for and call to write has come from Him, and that is a hard truth to defeat. When the enemy starts to steal our joy, we don’t simply remind each other that we love what we do. We tell each other to remember Who called us and that He is going to make our writing exactly what He wants it to be if we give it to Him.

Coming together in faith and in our love of writing, we help make each other unbreakable in the face of discouragement. Have you found a group like that in the ministries you work in?

The post Wednesday in the Word: Unbroken appeared first on Heather Greer.

Main Character Monday: Grace Bauer – Rose Harbor

Welcome to Main Character Monday. Today’s guest is Grace Bauer from Rose Harbor  by Pamela S. Meyers. Thank you for joining me. Let’s get right into the interview.

If you could visit any place in the world, where would you go?

I’m happy to be here, Heather. Thanks for having me.

Since I was a young girl and my dad took me up in his small plane, I yearned to not only see more of the United States but to see the world. That realization sparked my dream to become a pilot and eventually work for a commercial airline. Of course, during the infant beginnings of plane travel, the pilots were always male. But that didn’t stop me from my dream.

The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Which of these traits do you find easiest to display in your life? Which of them is the hardest to display?

Since I first surrendered my heart to the Lord He’s been working on me to grow in the fruits that are hardest for me to display. Faithfulness has always been the easiest. I have always been faithful to my family and my family’s heritage and to being the best representative of my family I can be. I worked hard to be faithful to God and my promise to follow him. By the time you step into my story as portrayed in Rose Harbor, I am struggling with that fruit quite a bit.

It does, at times, take hard life lessons in those areas that are difficult to make them come a little more naturally. What is your favorite story from the Old Testament?

There are so many to choose from. The one that has resonated with me a lot is the story about Hagar, Sarah’s maidservant. After she’d done as Sarah had asked of her, Sarah mistreated her terribly and Hagar and her son ended up being banished from the household. I love how after God came to her in the desert, she gave God a special name, El Roi, which means the God who sees me. I’m reminded of that a lot when going through tough times.

I, too, find that story a great reminder. Isn’t it wonderful to know that God sees us? What is your favorite book in the New Testament?

I can relate a lot to Peter, especially when after Jesus was crucified and Peter and the other disciples were mourning their loss, Peter and the disciples went fishing. Peter was still an emotional wreck after he’d denied Christ three times and Jesus showed up on the shore. He asked Peter three times if he loved Him. As many times as Peter had denied knowing Him! Peter said yes three times and Jesus asked him to “feed My sheep.” Wow! I love that even when we mess up big time, Jesus still loves us and after we repent, we are forgives and still given a job to do for Him.

It is a great comfort knowing while we want to be godly, God doesn’t proclaim us useless when we mess up. If you could leave us with one message, what would you want us to know?

If God gives you a dream, you can trust Him to fulfill that dream. It may not look exactly like how you imagined, but you can be sure it will be God’s best for you.

I love that thought. Now for a few more lighthearted questions. If you could have one exotic pet, what would you choose?

I’m really not into exotic animals. I’ve become rather attached to a couple of the chickens that Mac’s family has on their farm. He’s the hero in my story, by the way. When I was stationed in Texas and flying B-17s, an armadillo starting hanging out near our bunk house. He was a strange little creature. Marge, one of the other pilots, took a liking to him and collected insects to feed him. I’ll take a dog or cat any day.

Nothing wrong with that. And here are a few rapid fire questions. Just give me the first answer that pops into your head.

Sunrise or sunset?  Sunrise. There’s nothing like being up before dawn and heading out on Geneva Lake to see it rise over the treetops.

Pie or Cake?  Pie – especially cherry

Tulip or Iris?  Can I say Lilacs? They’re only around for a short while in the spring. But their fragrance is intoxicating.

Chocolate or Vanilla? Chocolate, hands down.

What three words would you use to describe Pamela S. Meyers?

Persistent, demanding, and faithful. In the middle of the pandemic, she disappeared. Not because she was sick, but because her muse stopped working. I wasn’t sure how I was going to get out of the predicament she left me in, but eventually she returned and with some help from some great editors finished my story.

Thank you Grace for visiting with me today. And thank you to Pamela S. Meyers for joining us. Here is a little more about Rose Harbor and Pamela S. Meyers. 

About Rose Harbor, book 4 of the Newport of the West Series:

All Grace Bauer has wanted to do since she was a child was to fly airplanes. When the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) organizes for female pilots to ferry new bomber aircraft to stateside military bases, Grace applies. She never tires of flying B-17s and other aircraft, and dreams of being one of the first females to pilot a commercial airliner after the war. A life-threatening illness clips her wings, and she finds herself back home in Wisconsin, thinking that God is punishing her for a past sin. Bored, she joins a ladies bowling league and meets Mac McAlister, a widowed school teacher who helps out at the bowling alley on league nights. He offers to help her restore the old family lakeshore estate, Safe Refuge—now called Rose Harbor and lost during the Crash of 1929—back to the family. She’s happy to have a good friend like Mac to help. But despite her efforts to keep their relationship platonic, Grace’s feelings for him grow. Before the relationship can move to the next level, she must tell him her secret, and when he hears it, he’ll want nothing more to do with her. She should end the relationship, but can’t imagine life without him. It is only with God’s blessing that she’ll be free to love Mac. But after what she’s done, she doubts God is willing to forgive her.

About Pamela Meyers, author of the Newport of the West Series, a 4-book historical series set in her hometown.

Pam grew up in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. She’s lived on both coasts of the U.S. After seven years in Southern California, she returned to the Midwest. She now lives with her two rescue cats, Jack and Meggie (who are named after the characters in one of her books) in northeastern Illinois. She’s only about an hour’s drive away from Lake Geneva, where she can often be found nosing around for story ideas and enjoying a Friday night fish fry.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pamela.meyers

Twitter: https://twitter.com/pamelameyers

Website: https://pamelasmeyers.com

Ordering Links: Amazon Author Page: http://amzn.to/2kqP5CC

Links to Amazon for the Three books in the series:

https://scrivenings.link/saferefuge

https://scrivenings.link/shelterbay

https://scrivenings.link/tranquilitypoint

The post Main Character Monday: Grace Bauer – Rose Harbor appeared first on Heather Greer.

On Tour with Celebrate Lit: The Weather Girls: Sunny

About the Book

Book: The Weather Girls: Sunny

Author: Jennifer Lynn Cary

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: September 6, 2021

She got stood up on Valentine’s Day…

…Then she lost her job

Could the legend of the cardinal change her luck?

With a disposition as bright as her name, Sunny shakes it off the worst day of her life and makes a new start. She’s got the brains that it takes, but she’s more than a little scared. It’s not just her reputation on the line.

Would this cockeyed adventure be the thing her siblings need too?

Pat only wants peace in the family and never dreamed doing a favor for his sister could drop him into so much hot water. Torn between what he’s always wanted and what is staring him in the face, someone is bound to get hurt.

Odds are it will be him.

But then, only the cardinal knows for sure.

Return to 1970 Indiana with Sunny, the first book in The Weather Girls series—get into the miniskirts, bell-bottoms, and Christian family values.

You’ll love Sunny for the music, the fashions, and the hilarious antics, because who can resist a romantic trip down memory lane?

 

Click here to get your copy!

MY THOUGHTS: I had such a good time reading this book! Jennifer Lynn Cary is a new to me author, but I plan on reading the rest in the series. The
Weather Girls: Sunny was a quick read and a fun story.

As an only daughter with two older brothers, I didn't experience growing up with sisters. This story made it seem like I missed out, and I love that theauthor made those relationships so relatable and enjoyable.

I also enjoyed the addition of the legend of the Cardinal. It's a sweet
enhancement to a story filled with characters readers will love spending
time with. I give this book four out of five stars.

 

About the Author

Jennifer Lynn Cary likes to say you can take the girl out of Indiana, but you can’t take the Hoosier out of the girl. Now transplanted to the Arizona desert, this direct descendant of Davy Crockett and her husband of forty years enjoy time with family where she shares tales of her small town heritage and family legacies with their grandchildren. She is the author of The Crockett Chronicles series and The Relentless series as well as the stand-alone novella Tales of the Hob Nob Annex Café and her recent split-time novel The Traveling Prayer Shawl.

 

More from Jennifer Lynn

I was born in the 50’s, grew up in the 60’s and 70’s, and married in 1980. I relate to K.T. Oslin’s song “80’s Ladies” a little too well.

Though we moved from Kokomo, Indiana in 1972, it always will be my hometown.

A few years ago my sister headed up a plan to have an annual Cousin’s Reunion in Kokomo. Two cousins came from Ohio and my sister and I came from the west to converge on our family who still call Kokomo home. Each trip back reminded me of how much I loved growing up there.

One day Bobby Hebb’s “Sunny” came on the Oldies station and caught my attention. Then I remembered the songs “Stormy” and “Windy” and wondered what it might be like for girls with that sort of name—especially if their surname was Day. Would their dispositions match their names? Why would their parents give them those names? The questions kept coming and I fell in love with the whole storyline.

The best part was putting the house I grew up in into the book(s). Yep, as you read the story, Hazel Day’s house is set up mostly like the one where I grew up only I added a den and an extra bedroom upstairs.

Ferguson House is based on the Seiberling Mansion—I love that place and tour it every chance I can when I get back to Kokomo. It’s amazing.

I also included favorite landmarks. Scotty’s Drive-In saw a lot of me in my early teen years. Great for grabbing a coke and not that far from either school or home.

The funny thing about memories is that they can blur and morph over time. Thankfully someone from my hometown has put together a Facebook page where I can ask questions and get more than enough answers.

Many locales I remember no longer exist, so writing about them helps them live on.

I hope you will check out Sunny and 1970 Kokomo and come back for the rest of The Weather Girls trilogy.

Abundant blessings!

Blog Stops

Blogging With Carol, October 6

CarpeDiem, October 6

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, October 7

By the Book, October 8

The space for grace, October 8

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 9

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 10

The Author Reads, October 10

Texas Book-aholic, October 11

Inklings and notions, October 12

Boondock Ramblings, October 12

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 13

Connie’s History Classroom, October 14

For Him and My Family, October 14

Batya’s Bits, October 15

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 16

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, October 16

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, October 17

deb’s Book Review, October 18

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, October 18

Vicky Sluiter, October 19

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, October 19

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Jennifer is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon card with signed copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/11fdc/the-weather-girls-sunny-celebration-tour-giveaway

The post On Tour with Celebrate Lit: The Weather Girls: Sunny appeared first on Heather Greer.

Wednesday in the Word: Look at the Clouds

Hebrews 12:1 NASB “Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us”

The other day, I was listening to the biography of a professional wrestler I like watching. At one point, he spoke about all the greats who came before him. He told of their influence on him professionally and personally. Looking back, he saw how they impacted his own journey in the business.

His words made me think of this verse in Hebrews in a different light. I’ve pictured it more like people who went before us watching like an audience. We run. Others watch. Those making up the audience have already run the race, and we can learn from their examples. But I’ve mostly pictured it in examples like Abraham, Paul, and other biblical examples of faith lived out in life.

They make up our cloud. And we should learn from their faithful lives. But they don’t make up the entire cloud. I think of Priscilla who was like a grandma in the church where I grew up. She made it clear faith and fun were not enemies.

I think of my grandma, grandpa, Bonnie, Ross, Betty, and so many others who gave their time, energy, and love to teenagers at camp each summer. They gave themselves so kids would know Jesus loves them.

As I direct camp each year and volunteers give a week of their vacation, we have these who served and have passed on as part of our cloud. They helped shape the ministry we now serve in. They shaped us as well.

Even though I know it’s what the verse refers to, I don’t think our cloud is made only of those who have already reached the end of their races. I can think of many who are still daily living their faith as an example.

Bonnie (a different one), DeAnn, Ramona, Ruby, Ralph, and Lee are a few of those making up my camp cloud of witnesses. They went before me. They served faithfully at camp and some still do. I wouldn’t be who I am without their testimony. And though it isn’t a visible thing, I believe they are in the stands cheering me on.

I think about my writing life too. I have many who have shaped me as a writer and speaker. People who have poured their wisdom and experience into me.

These aren’t great writers and speakers of the past who’ve passed on. These are great writers and speakers who are alive and writing today. Any list I made would fall short of the many men and women I’ve had the privilege to learn from at conferences. But there are a couple I’ve taken key lessons from in my life as a writer. Some of those lessons even move beyond the written page into other areas of my life.

Kristen Heitzmann’s presentation gave me the confidence I needed to write in the pantser style most comfortable to me. Discouragement was hounding me, because every other author I heard was pushing plotting as the way to make a great book. To do for others through my writing what her writing has done in my life is my goal as an author. Seeing that a great book can be written with a less planned out, methodical approach released me from what held me back.

Other lessons have shaped me as a writer and speaker in both physical and spiritual ways. Linda Goldfarb’s reminder not to chase the next best thing if it isn’t God’s next best thing for me has shaped how I choose what I add or remove from my list of things to do. And her encouragement to remember who I am and put me into all I write and speak gives me a gauge I can use to measure all I do.

These men and women make up my cloud of witnesses. They also give me a nice starting point for a praise filled prayer time!

What about you? Who makes up your cloud of witnesses?

The post Wednesday in the Word: Look at the Clouds appeared first on Heather Greer.

Main Character Monday: Mistletoe Make-believe

Welcome to Main Character Monday. Today, we continue meeting the characters of Candy Cane Wishes and Saltwater Dreams, the new novella collection from Scrivenings Press. Today’s guest is Samantha Arwine from “Mistletoe Make-believe” by Amy R Anguish. Thank you for joining me.

If you could visit any place in the world, where would you go?

Well, I’m actually there. You see, my muse needed a romantic location to see if I could … well, jumpstart my writing life. That last failed romance really killed my creativity. So, I picked the island where my parents honeymooned—St. Simons just off the coast of Georgia. And it’s even prettier than I imagined.

The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Which of these traits do you find easiest to display in your life? Which of them is the hardest to display?

Well, the hardest is obviously patience. I mean, why would I go chasing a story idea if I could stand to sit still and wait for it to come to me?

And the easiest? I’d like to think I exude joy. Maybe not, but I feel like I smile a lot. That counts, right?

Sure, we’ll count that. It’s a step in the right direction anyway, and that’s closer to joy than a lot of people I know. What is your favorite story from the Old Testament?

Ruth. I can’t help but love that God put a romance in the Bible. And someday, I’m going to find my Boaz, though maybe I won’t lay at his feet in the middle of the night.

 I think something must get lost in the historical traditions of the time! I can’t imagine doing that either. What is your favorite book in the New Testament?

I John. Sounds strange, huh? But it’s full of verses about love, and how can I, as a romance writer, not enjoy that?

Very true. How can you write love, if you don’t understand what it’s meant to be. If you could leave us with one message, what would you want us to know?

Be careful agreeing to a situation that involved deception and lies. Especially if it’s with a very handsome man. It might turn out okay in the end, but it might include quite a bit of heartbreak, too.

Hmm. Sounds like experience talking. My readers and I are going to have to check that out. And now, for a little fun. If you could have one exotic pet, what would you choose?

Are gerbils exotic? I don’t think I want anything more “exciting” than that. Birds are too noisy and messy. Lizards eat things I won’t touch. And I can’t imagine owning a monkey. No, I think I’ll stick with something small and cute, even if it’s not very exotic.

And let’s end with some rapid fire questions and answers.

Sunrise or sunset? Sunset. I’m not usually a morning person.

Pie or Cake? This is hard. Hmm. Pie, I guess, although I won’t turn down cake, either.

Tulip or Iris? Tulip.

Chocolate or Vanilla?  Chocolate, obviously.

What three words would you use to describe Amy Anguish?

Well, when she was writing my story, she was pushy, divisive, and slow. But don’t tell her I said that, because, as an author myself, I tend to be rather cruel to my characters, too.

I’d like to thank Samantha for joining me today and Amy for sharing “Mistletoe Make-believe” with us. If you have questions for Samantha or Amy, just drop them in the comments. Keep reading to learn more about Amy and Candy Cane Wishes and Saltwater Dreams. Then click on the link at the bottom of the page to get your copy!

More About “Mistletoe Make-believe”

Charlie Hill’s family thinks his daughter Hailey needs a mom—to the point they won’t get off his back until he finds her one. Desperate to be free from their nagging, he asks a stranger to pretend she’s his girlfriend during the holidays.

When romance author Samantha Arwine takes a working vacation to St. Simons Island over Christmas, she never dreamed she’d be involved in a real-life romance. Are the sparks between her and Charlie real? Or is it just her imagination?

More About Amy R Anguish
Author of An Unexpected Legacy, Faith and Hope, and Saving Grace
Amy R Anguish grew up a preacher’s kid, and in spite of having lived in seven different states that are all south of the Mason Dixon line, she is not a football fan. Currently, she resides in Tennessee with her husband, daughter, and son, and usually a bossy cat or two. Amy has an English degree from Freed-Hardeman University that she intends to use to glorify God, and she wants her stories to show that while Christians face real struggles, it can still work out for good.

Follow her at http://abitofanguish.weebly.com or http://www.facebook.com/amyanguishauthor

Or https://twitter.com/amy_r_anguish

Learn more about her books at https://www.pinterest.com/msguish/my-books/

And check out the YouTube channel she does with two other authors, Once Upon a Page (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEiu...)

The post Main Character Monday: Mistletoe Make-believe appeared first on Heather Greer.