Erica Vetsch's Blog, page 142
October 2, 2017
Buh-Bye Summer, Hello Autumn
About two seconds before Peter Pantook a dive into the water -- accidentally!Did anyone else catch a glimpse of summer as it went sprinting past? I barely did. But what a fun summer it was. I took a few weeks off of writing to play with the kiddos. We spent a lot of time in the in-laws swimming pool wrestling, launching water grenades, and sunning ourselves. CoCo insisted on helping me plot my third novel for Bethany House, so we spent hours naming characters, planning their quirks, and I seriously think I have a little blossoming psychologist on my hands.
"Beach combing" along the Flambeau RiverWe also took a family vacation to Northern Wisconsin. It's my husband's childhood stomping grounds and pretty much my favorite place on earth besides Rome. (So similar, eh?). It was great to rest and relax, especially after my stint in the hospital. We all snuggled, fished, swam, hiked, ate brownies, argued, cried, laughed . . . you know . . . all the things families do on vacation right?Funny how even the negative moments become precious in retrospect. Those struggles that last for a moment, but are ultimately conquered by love and family. Sometimes I sit back and watch my family as they interact and I can almost palpably feel the energy of the love they have for each other. CoCo and Peter Pan, Cap'n Hook to the kiddos, and then me included in the mix. It's a blessing I never want to take for granted but can only credit toward a lifetime of seeking the Lord with all of our hearts.
Heaven on a stick So . . . summer is full of pleasant memories. Good family times, traditions, stretching, and resting. Now we enter October with a flourish of fall leaves, chillier winds, sweaters, and of course, coffee. I'm so thankful for another season to pack away in my memory book I store in my heart.What memories are you storing away this year?
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Professional coffee drinker & ECPA/Publisher's Weekly best-selling author, Jaime Jo Wright resides in the hills of Wisconsin writing spirited turn-of-the-century romance stained with suspense. Coffee fuels her snarky personality. She lives in Neverland with her Cap’n Hook who stole her heart and will not give it back, their little fairy TinkerBell, and a very mischievous Peter Pan. The foursome embark on scores of adventure that only make her fall more wildly in love with romance and intrigue.Jaime lives in dreamland, exists in reality, and invites you to join her adventures atjaimejowright.com.
Web site: www.jaimejowright.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/jaimejowright
Twitter: www.twitter.com/jaimejowright
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/jaimejowright
Instagram: www.Instagram.com/jaimejowright
Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/author/show/13916081.Jaime_Jo_Wright
September 28, 2017
The Gift of My Twins + Giveaway!
Gabrielle Here:
This week I'm celebrating the arrival of my author copies for The Gift of Twins , my December Love Inspired Historical novel.
On Wednesday, I shared the dedication, which is written to four special friends, but today I thought I'd talk about the twins in the book, Levi and Zebulun Trask.
It's fun to use real people as inspiration for the characters in my novels, and that's just what I did in The Gift of Twins. The book features a set of fraternal twins and I used my own twin boys as a template, from their eye and hair color, to their personalities and mannerisms. I tried to imagine how they might react if they were placed in the same situations as the twins in my story, which was hard to do when life wasn't treating the Trask twins well. By using real people as inspiration for fictional characters, I hope to bring the story to life in a way that resonates with my readers.
The character of Zebulun Trask is inspired by my older twin who is sweet, silly, and compassionate.
The character of Levi Trask is inspired by my second twin who is curious, smart, and likes to be in control at all times.
My boys are now seven, but the twins in the book are five (these pictures were taken when my boys were five). If anyone knows my boys, they won't have a hard time figuring out which one is which in the story. :)
Here's more about the story:
Unexpected Holiday BlessingsFinding twin five-year-old boys on his doorstep isn’t the first surprise Reverend Benjamin Lahaye has faced lately. Emery Wilkes, the new schoolteacher the town has hired, turns out to be a very pretty woman—not the man they’d been expecting. And though the twins and Emmy are only boarding with Ben until Christmas, the arrangement feels all too natural.
Emmy has moved to Minnesota to put loss behind her. Marriage would mean forsaking her position and her purpose, and Ben is an honorable man who understands her refusal to wed. But as he gets closer to tracking down the little boys’ father, Emmy realizes just how much she wants their sweet temporary family to become permanent.
Your Turn: If you could write a story using real people from your life as templates, who would you use and how would you describe them?
Don't forget to enter the Rafflecopter for a chance to win a copy of The Gift of Twins!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Gabrielle Meyer lives in central Minnesota on the banks of the Mississippi River with her husband and four children. As an employee of the Minnesota Historical Society, she fell in love with the rich history of her state and enjoys writing fictional stories inspired by real people and events.
Find her on Facebook
Find her on Amazon
Find her on Goodreads
Find her on My Website
Sign up for Her Newsletter
September 26, 2017
Book Dedication to Four Special Ladies + Giveaway!
Gabrielle Here:
This week I received a special package in the mail! My December Love Inspired Historical novel, The Gift of Twins . It's a bittersweet moment to hold this book in my hands, because it's my last LIH book and the last in the Little Falls Legacy Series, but it's Ben's story and he finally gets his happily-ever-after!
It's also sweet, because this book is dedicated to four very special ladies. Beka Swisher (purple coat), Sarah Olson (pink coat), Lindsay LeClair (top row, far right), and Jessica Janski (green hat).
I met these ladies about eleven years ago, because all of them have children the same ages as mine and we became good friends during our years as MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) leaders. Five years ago, when I decided to pursue writing for publication, these ladies were some of the very first people I told. Not only did they cheer me on, they prayed for me, encouraged me, and supported me every step of the way. They were also the first people to read my very first novel, and their words of affirmation propelled me to keep going, even when the road looked daunting.
But what I remember the most is the night before I left for my first writers conference, when they gathered around me, prayed over me, and gave me an envelope filled with letters to read on my plane ride to Dallas, Texas, so I wouldn't have to go alone. I truly felt surrounded by their love and prayers that whole time I was in Texas, and those prayers have stayed with me ever since.
I've been looking forward to this dedication for a long time, and I'm so happy the day has finally arrived. I've already given each of them a copy and told them how much they mean to me--but I don't believe anything I could ever do would repay their greatest gift to me: their unwavering belief in my dream.
Thank you, ladies, for your friendship, love, and support. I hope you enjoy Ben's story as much as I have.
To celebrate, I'd love to give away an early copy of this book! Just fill out the Rafflecopter below!!
Here's more about the book:
Unexpected Holiday BlessingsFinding twin five-year-old boys on his doorstep isn’t the first surprise Reverend Benjamin Lahaye has faced lately. Emery Wilkes, the new schoolteacher the town has hired, turns out to be a very pretty woman—not the man they’d been expecting. And though the twins and Emmy are only boarding with Ben until Christmas, the arrangement feels all too natural.
Emmy has moved to Minnesota to put loss behind her. Marriage would mean forsaking her position and her purpose, and Ben is an honorable man who understands her refusal to wed. But as he gets closer to tracking down the little boys’ father, Emmy realizes just how much she wants their sweet temporary family to become permanent.
Your Turn: Do you have a special group of friends who have helped you believe in a dream? If you could dedicate a book to anyone, who would it be?
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Gabrielle Meyer lives in central Minnesota on the banks of the Mississippi River with her husband and four children. As an employee of the Minnesota Historical Society, she fell in love with the rich history of her state and enjoys writing fictional stories inspired by real people and events.
Find her on Facebook
Find her on Amazon
Find her on Goodreads
Find her on My Website
Sign up for Her Newsletter
Book Dedication to Four Special Ladies
Gabrielle Here:
This week I received a special package in the mail! My December Love Inspired Historical novel, The Gift of Twins . It's a bittersweet moment to hold this book in my hands, because it's my last LIH book and the last in the Little Falls Legacy Series, but it's Ben's story and he finally gets his happily-ever-after!
It's also sweet, because this book is dedicated to four very special ladies. Beka Swisher (purple coat), Sarah Olson (pink coat), Lindsay LeClair (top row, far right), and Jessica Janski (green hat).
I met these ladies about eleven years ago, because all of them have children the same ages as mine and we became good friends during our years as MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) leaders. Five years ago, when I decided to pursue writing for publication, these ladies were some of the very first people I told. Not only did they cheer me on, they prayed for me, encouraged me, and supported me every step of the way. They were also the first people to read my very first novel, and their words of affirmation propelled me to keep going, even when the road looked daunting.
But what I remember the most is the night before I left for my first writers conference, when they gathered around me, prayed over me, and gave me an envelope filled with letters to read on my plane ride to Dallas, Texas, so I wouldn't have to go alone. I truly felt surrounded by their love and prayers that whole time I was in Texas, and those prayers have stayed with me ever since.
I've been looking forward to this dedication for a long time, and I'm so happy the day has finally arrived. I've already given each of them a copy and told them how much they mean to me--but I don't believe anything I could ever do would repay their greatest gift to me: their unwavering belief in my dream.
Thank you, ladies, for your friendship, love, and support. I hope you enjoy Ben's story as much as I have.
To celebrate, I'd love to give away an early copy of this book! Just fill out the Rafflecopter below!!
Here's more about the book:
Unexpected Holiday BlessingsFinding twin five-year-old boys on his doorstep isn’t the first surprise Reverend Benjamin Lahaye has faced lately. Emery Wilkes, the new schoolteacher the town has hired, turns out to be a very pretty woman—not the man they’d been expecting. And though the twins and Emmy are only boarding with Ben until Christmas, the arrangement feels all too natural.
Emmy has moved to Minnesota to put loss behind her. Marriage would mean forsaking her position and her purpose, and Ben is an honorable man who understands her refusal to wed. But as he gets closer to tracking down the little boys’ father, Emmy realizes just how much she wants their sweet temporary family to become permanent.
Your Turn: Do you have a special group of friends who have helped you believe in a dream? If you could dedicate a book to anyone, who would it be?
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Gabrielle Meyer lives in central Minnesota on the banks of the Mississippi River with her husband and four children. As an employee of the Minnesota Historical Society, she fell in love with the rich history of her state and enjoys writing fictional stories inspired by real people and events.
Find her on Facebook
Find her on Amazon
Find her on Goodreads
Find her on My Website
Sign up for Her Newsletter
September 25, 2017
Lindbergh and the 1920's--Homeschool Style
Gabrielle Here:
Last week, my cousin invited me to talk about Charles A. Lindbergh at her local homeschool co-op. As a homeschool mom, and a former employee of the Charles A. Lindbergh Historic Site, it was a perfect fit.
The night before co-op, I drove the two hours to her house with my four children and we spent the night. Bright and early the next morning, we woke up to a raging thunderstorm! When I went out to my Suburban, we realized one of the kids had left the back hatch open and everything was wet--including my computer. Thankfully, it still worked, since my presentation was on the hard drive. All the supplies I had brought with for the project were damp, but still usable.
I spoke to three separate elementary classes that morning. The kids were respectful, well-behaved, and inquisitive. I had so much fun talking to them about Charles Lindbergh, his flight across the Atlantic in 1927, the craze that followed, as well as a brief overview of the 1920's, to give the children a place to anchor Lindbergh's story. After I spoke, we made Lindy Lids! A spoof off a popular hat women wore in 1927 after Lindbergh's flight.
I also talked about the 1920's and showed the kids what their life might have looked like if they had lived during the time when Charles made his flight.
We talked about how long it took people to cross the Atlantic Ocean in a ship, and how aviation changed the way people traveled. We also talked about the crazy competitions people participated in during the 1920's, like flagpole sitting and dance marathons, and how Lindbergh's flight was another one of those "crazy" competitions where a $25,000 prize was on the line and six men had died attempting to win.
At the end, we talked about Lindbergh's incredible fame, how millions flocked to see him wherever he went, and how people commercialized on his success.
Finally, we made our very own Lindy Lids.
We had a blast that day! I love teaching children (and adults!) about the things I'm passionate about. Charles Lindbergh fits right into my wheelhouse. :)
Your Turn: What do you love sharing with others? Do you teach? If you could teach one class, no matter the subject, what would it be?
Gabrielle Meyer lives in central Minnesota on the banks of the Mississippi River with her husband and four children. As an employee of the Minnesota Historical Society, she fell in love with the rich history of her state and enjoys writing fictional stories inspired by real people and events.
Find her on Facebook
Find her on Amazon
Find her on Goodreads
Find her on My Website
Sign up for Her Newsletter
Last week, my cousin invited me to talk about Charles A. Lindbergh at her local homeschool co-op. As a homeschool mom, and a former employee of the Charles A. Lindbergh Historic Site, it was a perfect fit.
The night before co-op, I drove the two hours to her house with my four children and we spent the night. Bright and early the next morning, we woke up to a raging thunderstorm! When I went out to my Suburban, we realized one of the kids had left the back hatch open and everything was wet--including my computer. Thankfully, it still worked, since my presentation was on the hard drive. All the supplies I had brought with for the project were damp, but still usable.
I spoke to three separate elementary classes that morning. The kids were respectful, well-behaved, and inquisitive. I had so much fun talking to them about Charles Lindbergh, his flight across the Atlantic in 1927, the craze that followed, as well as a brief overview of the 1920's, to give the children a place to anchor Lindbergh's story. After I spoke, we made Lindy Lids! A spoof off a popular hat women wore in 1927 after Lindbergh's flight.
I also talked about the 1920's and showed the kids what their life might have looked like if they had lived during the time when Charles made his flight.
We talked about how long it took people to cross the Atlantic Ocean in a ship, and how aviation changed the way people traveled. We also talked about the crazy competitions people participated in during the 1920's, like flagpole sitting and dance marathons, and how Lindbergh's flight was another one of those "crazy" competitions where a $25,000 prize was on the line and six men had died attempting to win.
At the end, we talked about Lindbergh's incredible fame, how millions flocked to see him wherever he went, and how people commercialized on his success.
Finally, we made our very own Lindy Lids.
We had a blast that day! I love teaching children (and adults!) about the things I'm passionate about. Charles Lindbergh fits right into my wheelhouse. :)
Your Turn: What do you love sharing with others? Do you teach? If you could teach one class, no matter the subject, what would it be?
Gabrielle Meyer lives in central Minnesota on the banks of the Mississippi River with her husband and four children. As an employee of the Minnesota Historical Society, she fell in love with the rich history of her state and enjoys writing fictional stories inspired by real people and events.
Find her on Facebook
Find her on Amazon
Find her on Goodreads
Find her on My Website
Sign up for Her Newsletter
September 22, 2017
September NEW READS!
We love bringing you new reads to check out!! This month, there's some wonderful one hitting the shelves!!! More in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website.
Contemporary Romance:
Planting Hope
by Brenda S. Anderson -- Jess Beaumont is trying to get her separated parents together again by restoring the family cabin gardens that helped them fall in love. Luke Harrison inherited his Gran’s candy store, but would rather have a Vice President position in his family’s land development business—a sure sign of his father’s approval. To get the promotion, he must acquire the land on both sides of his store within five months, including the Beaumont cabin. As Luke gets to know Jess, he realizes buying the Beaumont cabin and land will nip their blossoming romance in the bud. Even worse, it could end her parents’ marriage. But if he doesn’t succeed, he could be trading his corner office for the candy store counter…for good. Is their romance doomed? Or could the classic combination of chocolate and flowers solve everything? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)
An Amish Christmas Love by Amy Clipston, Kelly Irvin, Ruth Reid, and Beth Wiseman -- Fall in love this Christmas to the gentle pace of Amish courtship. In Winter Kisses by Beth Wiseman, six lonely hearts find healing in the Stoltzfus homestead basement while waiting out a Christmas Eve storm. In The Christmas Cat by Amy Clipston, a group of young people and a forbidden house cat bring reminders of love and hope to a grieving widow at Christmas. In Snow Angels by Kelly Irvin, A young woman’s prayer for a Christmas proposal is delayed by the appearance of her potential groom’s first love, whom me met on his rumspringa. In Home for Christmas by Ruth Reid, an Englisch woman thinks she’s breaking into the house her aenti left to her, only to discover she’s trespassing upon an Amish widower and his young daughter, whose quiet way of life tempts her to stay. (Contemporary Romance from HarperCollins Christian Publishing)
Magnolia Storms by Janet W. Ferguson --Maggie Marovich lost her father to Hurricane Katrina, so she’s dedicated her life to meteorology and plans never to return to the Mississippi Coast or the ship pilot she once loved—until a family crisis sends her running headlong into a storm. (Contemporary, Independently Published)
The Christmas Admirer
by Laura V. Hilton -- Susanna’s left with three options: one, go with Daed to his new home with a new mom; two, stay in Jamesport, Missouri, as an old maid; or, three, the best yet, flush out her mysterious secret admirer. But how could she be with anyone else when her heart is still with Benaiah? (Contemporary Romance from Whitaker House)
Finding Love in Friday Harbor, Washington by Annette Irby -- Professor Mikaela Rhoades has a plan: she’ll encourage her students’ marine biology research through an exclusive program while helping an old family friend’s whale touring business stay afloat. The challenge is the tour captain is her first love and ex-fiancé. Mikaela longs to help his family in the wake of his father’s death, but she’s keeping secrets. Captain Hunter Cahill has taken over the family touring business after his father’s death. Unfortunately, he’s drowning in grief and accumulated debt. To make matters more difficult, he’d promised his father to pursue Mikaela if she ever returned to the island single. But what will it cost him to spend the summer romancing Mikaela? (Contemporary Romance from Mountain Brook Ink)
Returning Home by Toni Shiloh -- Jo Ellen Baker is shocked to find out that the boy who teased her mercilessly throughout high school, has returned to their hometown of Freedom Lake, and he’s missing a leg. When his mother asks her to renovate their carriage house to give him a place to gain his independence back, she wants to say no. But one look at him brings a rush of forgotten feelings. Evan Carter can’t believe he has to return home and live with his parents. Every hope and dream he ever had dissipated in a car crash that cost him his leg. Stuck in a wheelchair, he’s forced to reexamine his relationship with God and the local carpenter, Jo Ellen Baker. Will renovating his home open the door for a mended relationship, or are some wounds too deep to heal from? (Contemporary, Independently Published)
All This Time by Melissa Tagg -- Ten years ago, Bear McKinley gave up everything—his freedom and his reputation—for his mess of a family. But after years of distance and too many attempts at starting over, he finally has a new life doing noble work in Brazil . . . until his past catches up to him. Raegan Walker is happy working a slew of part-time jobs, still living in her childhood bedroom and rarely venturing from her hometown. At least, that’s what she tells everyone . . . and herself. But she can’t help wondering what might’ve happened if she hadn’t abandoned her art so many years ago—and if Bear McKinley had never left. When Bear returns and she’s commissioned for a painting that just might revive her artistic ambition all in one week, it’s time to finally reach for more. But doing so means facing the fears that have held her back all this time, including admitting the secret she’s kept from Bear and her family. With her dream and her heart on the line, how much will Raegan have to risk to finally chase her happy ending? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)
Home All Along
by Beth Wiseman -- Charlotte has made a home for herself in Amish Country with Daniel. But unforeseen events rock their fragile world and may move them even further away from the life they long for. Charlotte, an Englisher, is living in Amish Country, and fallen in love with an Amish man. But just when she is considering a permanent conversion to the Amish way of life, her world crashes around her. An unexpected death and a mysterious visitor unsettle Charlotte, and she begins to question her faith and her choices. Will Charlotte and Daniel’s relationship succumb to the many pressures around them, or will their faith and community help them become strong enough to build a life together? (Contemporary Romance from HarperCollins Christian Publishing)
General Contemporary:
Mercy Triumphs
by Jana Kelley -- Mia, an American Christian, has lived in Sudan so long that persecution, harassment, and danger have become commonplace for her. Her tough outer shell threatens to harden her heart while her newly Christian friends, Halimah and Rania, former Muslims, are forced to live in exile outside Sudan. All three quickly discover that escaping danger in one place only means facing even greater challenges elsewhere. As God’s mercy becomes evident in their lives, they must choose whether or not to offer mercy to those who don’t deserve it. Based on real-life events, Mercy Triumphs reveals some of the struggles Christians face when living under Islamic law. (General from New Hope Publishers)
Life in Chapel Springs by Ane Mulligan -- Is it a midlife pregnancy or ... cancer? Claire will keep her secret until she’s sure but it isn’t easy. Neither is trying to buy a home pregnancy test without anyone finding out. Between her twins double wedding, the caterer cancelling, a looming nationwide art tour and her health, Claire s life is upside down. Meanwhile, shy Lacey Dawson faces the emotional effects of traumatic injuries requiring facial reconstruction, and rumors of gold in Chapel Springs have greedy investors clamoring to buy all the homes in town and mine the gold. Will life in Chapel Springs ever be the same? (General from Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas)
Historical:
A Conspiracy of Breath by Latayne C. Scott -- What would it have been like to be a woman, a Gentile, and someone onto whom the Holy Breath moved - to produce what became the mysterious Epistle to the Hebrews in the Bible? (Historical from TSU Press [Trinity Southwest University])
Queen of Sheba by Jill Eileen Smith -- King Solomon meets his equal in the Queen of Sheba and does his best to give her everything she seeks to find, but will he be able to give her the deepest longing of her heart? (Historical from Revell - A Division of Baker Publishing)
Historical Romance:
These Healing Hills
by Ann H. Gabhart -- When life takes an unexpected turn, Francine Howard finds work in the mountains as a midwife where healing and love await her. (Historical Romance from Revell - A Division of Baker Publishing)
12 Days at Bleakly Manor
by Michelle Griep -- Clara Chapman receives an intriguing invitation and is promised a sum of five hundred pounds if she will remain a guest at Bleakly Manor for the duration of a twelve-day Christmas celebration. Then she learns Benjamin Lane, who left her at the altar, is also in attendance. Imprisoned unjustly, Ben wants revenge on whomever stole his honor. Torn between money, revenge, and love, will Clara and Ben last the full twelve days at Bleakly Manor and learn what matters most at Christmas? (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)
Mystery:
When the Bishop Needs and Alibi
by Vannetta Chapman -- Amish bishop Henry Lapp eagerly awaits the annual arrival of 20,000 sandhill cranes to the San Luis Valley of Colorado. But his visit to the Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge reveals more than just a miracle of God's creation. Hidden among the bulrushes and cattails is the deceased body of a young woman. As the local authorities attempt to unravel the mystery, Henry feels God's calling to use his extraordinary talent to aid in the investigation. His ability to draw from memory in photographic detail could help solve this puzzling case. Henry's closest friend, Emma Fisher, has always urged him to embrace his gift. As their relationship deepens, Henry realizes his involvement could put him and those he loves in the direct path of a killer, one who is willing to do anything to cover up a brutal crime, including framing the bishop. (Mystery from Harvest House)
The House Next Door
by Susan Page Davis -- As Jennifer’s due date approaches, Harvey decides to invest in real estate, unaware of the terror this will cause his family. A hidden cupboard isn’t so bad—in fact, it’s almost fun to try to solve the little mystery inside it. But will any of their loved ones want to live next door after they learn what’s in the basement? (Mystery, Independently Published)
Solve by Christmas
by Amber Schamel -- Detective Jasper Hollock thought he wanted nothing more than a real case. But when the man who raised him stands on the brink of suicide and mysterious incidents sabotage the factory, Jasper has 24 days to unravel the malicious plot and convince his employer that life is worth living. (Mystery, Independently Published)
Romantic Suspense:
Justice Buried
by Patricia Bradley -- A security specialist is accused of murder and must clear her name or her career is over, but her investigation draws her into the path of a killer, and she finds herself fighting for her life. When a man from her past is called in to investigate, she may find that he's the biggest security threat yet . . . to her heart. (Romantic Suspense from Revell - A Division of Baker Publishing)
Rescued Hearts
by Hope Toler Dougherty -- An innocent bike ride leads to a hostage situation, jeopardizing an undercover mission and two stubborn hearts. (Romantic Suspense from Mantle Rock Publishing)
Deadly Proof
by Rachel Dylan -- A female attorney hires a former Army Ranger turned private investigator to help research an alleged pharmaceutical cover-up. As the case deepens, both hearts and lives become endangered. It appears someone is willing to risk everything--even murder--to keep the case from going to trial. (Romantic Suspense from Bethany House [Baker])
Uncharted Hope
by Keely Brooke Keith -- Sophia Ashton must prove herself in her new job while researching the gray leaf medicine and dealing with her toxic family. (Romantic Suspense from Edenbrooke Press)
Thriller/Suspense:
Crown of Souls
by Ronie Kendig -- Perhaps the only person as skilled as Cole "Tox" Russell is Alec King, a rogue Special Forces operator who vanished months ago. Now he’s back, and he's out for justice. Furious with orders that got his men killed, he intends to make those responsible pay. And he insists Tox join him, believing they are the same breed of soldier. Afraid his old friend could be right, Tox battles a growing darkness within himself as he and his team are forced into another deadly encounter with antiquity. It appears Alec is harnessing the power of a mysterious artifact, a crown that history has linked to some of the worst slaughters in humanity. Racing to stop Alec before his vengeance is unleashed, Tox must fight the monster without becoming one. (Military Suspense from Bethany House [Baker])
Witness Protection
by Carol Kinsey -- After four years in witness protection, Ty Westgate’s identity has been exposed - with the help of a struggling nurse, the ex-lawyer with a new faith must work to unravel the truth behind his adversaries before he’s silenced permanently. (Thriller/Suspense, Independently Published) Save Save Save
Contemporary Romance:
Planting Hope
by Brenda S. Anderson -- Jess Beaumont is trying to get her separated parents together again by restoring the family cabin gardens that helped them fall in love. Luke Harrison inherited his Gran’s candy store, but would rather have a Vice President position in his family’s land development business—a sure sign of his father’s approval. To get the promotion, he must acquire the land on both sides of his store within five months, including the Beaumont cabin. As Luke gets to know Jess, he realizes buying the Beaumont cabin and land will nip their blossoming romance in the bud. Even worse, it could end her parents’ marriage. But if he doesn’t succeed, he could be trading his corner office for the candy store counter…for good. Is their romance doomed? Or could the classic combination of chocolate and flowers solve everything? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)
An Amish Christmas Love by Amy Clipston, Kelly Irvin, Ruth Reid, and Beth Wiseman -- Fall in love this Christmas to the gentle pace of Amish courtship. In Winter Kisses by Beth Wiseman, six lonely hearts find healing in the Stoltzfus homestead basement while waiting out a Christmas Eve storm. In The Christmas Cat by Amy Clipston, a group of young people and a forbidden house cat bring reminders of love and hope to a grieving widow at Christmas. In Snow Angels by Kelly Irvin, A young woman’s prayer for a Christmas proposal is delayed by the appearance of her potential groom’s first love, whom me met on his rumspringa. In Home for Christmas by Ruth Reid, an Englisch woman thinks she’s breaking into the house her aenti left to her, only to discover she’s trespassing upon an Amish widower and his young daughter, whose quiet way of life tempts her to stay. (Contemporary Romance from HarperCollins Christian Publishing)
Magnolia Storms by Janet W. Ferguson --Maggie Marovich lost her father to Hurricane Katrina, so she’s dedicated her life to meteorology and plans never to return to the Mississippi Coast or the ship pilot she once loved—until a family crisis sends her running headlong into a storm. (Contemporary, Independently Published)
The Christmas Admirer
by Laura V. Hilton -- Susanna’s left with three options: one, go with Daed to his new home with a new mom; two, stay in Jamesport, Missouri, as an old maid; or, three, the best yet, flush out her mysterious secret admirer. But how could she be with anyone else when her heart is still with Benaiah? (Contemporary Romance from Whitaker House)
Finding Love in Friday Harbor, Washington by Annette Irby -- Professor Mikaela Rhoades has a plan: she’ll encourage her students’ marine biology research through an exclusive program while helping an old family friend’s whale touring business stay afloat. The challenge is the tour captain is her first love and ex-fiancé. Mikaela longs to help his family in the wake of his father’s death, but she’s keeping secrets. Captain Hunter Cahill has taken over the family touring business after his father’s death. Unfortunately, he’s drowning in grief and accumulated debt. To make matters more difficult, he’d promised his father to pursue Mikaela if she ever returned to the island single. But what will it cost him to spend the summer romancing Mikaela? (Contemporary Romance from Mountain Brook Ink)
Returning Home by Toni Shiloh -- Jo Ellen Baker is shocked to find out that the boy who teased her mercilessly throughout high school, has returned to their hometown of Freedom Lake, and he’s missing a leg. When his mother asks her to renovate their carriage house to give him a place to gain his independence back, she wants to say no. But one look at him brings a rush of forgotten feelings. Evan Carter can’t believe he has to return home and live with his parents. Every hope and dream he ever had dissipated in a car crash that cost him his leg. Stuck in a wheelchair, he’s forced to reexamine his relationship with God and the local carpenter, Jo Ellen Baker. Will renovating his home open the door for a mended relationship, or are some wounds too deep to heal from? (Contemporary, Independently Published)
All This Time by Melissa Tagg -- Ten years ago, Bear McKinley gave up everything—his freedom and his reputation—for his mess of a family. But after years of distance and too many attempts at starting over, he finally has a new life doing noble work in Brazil . . . until his past catches up to him. Raegan Walker is happy working a slew of part-time jobs, still living in her childhood bedroom and rarely venturing from her hometown. At least, that’s what she tells everyone . . . and herself. But she can’t help wondering what might’ve happened if she hadn’t abandoned her art so many years ago—and if Bear McKinley had never left. When Bear returns and she’s commissioned for a painting that just might revive her artistic ambition all in one week, it’s time to finally reach for more. But doing so means facing the fears that have held her back all this time, including admitting the secret she’s kept from Bear and her family. With her dream and her heart on the line, how much will Raegan have to risk to finally chase her happy ending? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)
Home All Along
by Beth Wiseman -- Charlotte has made a home for herself in Amish Country with Daniel. But unforeseen events rock their fragile world and may move them even further away from the life they long for. Charlotte, an Englisher, is living in Amish Country, and fallen in love with an Amish man. But just when she is considering a permanent conversion to the Amish way of life, her world crashes around her. An unexpected death and a mysterious visitor unsettle Charlotte, and she begins to question her faith and her choices. Will Charlotte and Daniel’s relationship succumb to the many pressures around them, or will their faith and community help them become strong enough to build a life together? (Contemporary Romance from HarperCollins Christian Publishing) General Contemporary:
Mercy Triumphs
by Jana Kelley -- Mia, an American Christian, has lived in Sudan so long that persecution, harassment, and danger have become commonplace for her. Her tough outer shell threatens to harden her heart while her newly Christian friends, Halimah and Rania, former Muslims, are forced to live in exile outside Sudan. All three quickly discover that escaping danger in one place only means facing even greater challenges elsewhere. As God’s mercy becomes evident in their lives, they must choose whether or not to offer mercy to those who don’t deserve it. Based on real-life events, Mercy Triumphs reveals some of the struggles Christians face when living under Islamic law. (General from New Hope Publishers)
Life in Chapel Springs by Ane Mulligan -- Is it a midlife pregnancy or ... cancer? Claire will keep her secret until she’s sure but it isn’t easy. Neither is trying to buy a home pregnancy test without anyone finding out. Between her twins double wedding, the caterer cancelling, a looming nationwide art tour and her health, Claire s life is upside down. Meanwhile, shy Lacey Dawson faces the emotional effects of traumatic injuries requiring facial reconstruction, and rumors of gold in Chapel Springs have greedy investors clamoring to buy all the homes in town and mine the gold. Will life in Chapel Springs ever be the same? (General from Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas) Historical:
A Conspiracy of Breath by Latayne C. Scott -- What would it have been like to be a woman, a Gentile, and someone onto whom the Holy Breath moved - to produce what became the mysterious Epistle to the Hebrews in the Bible? (Historical from TSU Press [Trinity Southwest University])
Queen of Sheba by Jill Eileen Smith -- King Solomon meets his equal in the Queen of Sheba and does his best to give her everything she seeks to find, but will he be able to give her the deepest longing of her heart? (Historical from Revell - A Division of Baker Publishing) Historical Romance:
These Healing Hills
by Ann H. Gabhart -- When life takes an unexpected turn, Francine Howard finds work in the mountains as a midwife where healing and love await her. (Historical Romance from Revell - A Division of Baker Publishing)
12 Days at Bleakly Manor
by Michelle Griep -- Clara Chapman receives an intriguing invitation and is promised a sum of five hundred pounds if she will remain a guest at Bleakly Manor for the duration of a twelve-day Christmas celebration. Then she learns Benjamin Lane, who left her at the altar, is also in attendance. Imprisoned unjustly, Ben wants revenge on whomever stole his honor. Torn between money, revenge, and love, will Clara and Ben last the full twelve days at Bleakly Manor and learn what matters most at Christmas? (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing) Mystery:
When the Bishop Needs and Alibi
by Vannetta Chapman -- Amish bishop Henry Lapp eagerly awaits the annual arrival of 20,000 sandhill cranes to the San Luis Valley of Colorado. But his visit to the Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge reveals more than just a miracle of God's creation. Hidden among the bulrushes and cattails is the deceased body of a young woman. As the local authorities attempt to unravel the mystery, Henry feels God's calling to use his extraordinary talent to aid in the investigation. His ability to draw from memory in photographic detail could help solve this puzzling case. Henry's closest friend, Emma Fisher, has always urged him to embrace his gift. As their relationship deepens, Henry realizes his involvement could put him and those he loves in the direct path of a killer, one who is willing to do anything to cover up a brutal crime, including framing the bishop. (Mystery from Harvest House)
The House Next Door
by Susan Page Davis -- As Jennifer’s due date approaches, Harvey decides to invest in real estate, unaware of the terror this will cause his family. A hidden cupboard isn’t so bad—in fact, it’s almost fun to try to solve the little mystery inside it. But will any of their loved ones want to live next door after they learn what’s in the basement? (Mystery, Independently Published)
Solve by Christmas
by Amber Schamel -- Detective Jasper Hollock thought he wanted nothing more than a real case. But when the man who raised him stands on the brink of suicide and mysterious incidents sabotage the factory, Jasper has 24 days to unravel the malicious plot and convince his employer that life is worth living. (Mystery, Independently Published) Romantic Suspense:
Justice Buried
by Patricia Bradley -- A security specialist is accused of murder and must clear her name or her career is over, but her investigation draws her into the path of a killer, and she finds herself fighting for her life. When a man from her past is called in to investigate, she may find that he's the biggest security threat yet . . . to her heart. (Romantic Suspense from Revell - A Division of Baker Publishing)
Rescued Hearts
by Hope Toler Dougherty -- An innocent bike ride leads to a hostage situation, jeopardizing an undercover mission and two stubborn hearts. (Romantic Suspense from Mantle Rock Publishing)
Deadly Proof
by Rachel Dylan -- A female attorney hires a former Army Ranger turned private investigator to help research an alleged pharmaceutical cover-up. As the case deepens, both hearts and lives become endangered. It appears someone is willing to risk everything--even murder--to keep the case from going to trial. (Romantic Suspense from Bethany House [Baker])
Uncharted Hope
by Keely Brooke Keith -- Sophia Ashton must prove herself in her new job while researching the gray leaf medicine and dealing with her toxic family. (Romantic Suspense from Edenbrooke Press) Thriller/Suspense:
Crown of Souls
by Ronie Kendig -- Perhaps the only person as skilled as Cole "Tox" Russell is Alec King, a rogue Special Forces operator who vanished months ago. Now he’s back, and he's out for justice. Furious with orders that got his men killed, he intends to make those responsible pay. And he insists Tox join him, believing they are the same breed of soldier. Afraid his old friend could be right, Tox battles a growing darkness within himself as he and his team are forced into another deadly encounter with antiquity. It appears Alec is harnessing the power of a mysterious artifact, a crown that history has linked to some of the worst slaughters in humanity. Racing to stop Alec before his vengeance is unleashed, Tox must fight the monster without becoming one. (Military Suspense from Bethany House [Baker])
Witness Protection
by Carol Kinsey -- After four years in witness protection, Ty Westgate’s identity has been exposed - with the help of a struggling nurse, the ex-lawyer with a new faith must work to unravel the truth behind his adversaries before he’s silenced permanently. (Thriller/Suspense, Independently Published) Save Save Save
September 20, 2017
Love Is...Doing Dishes With Me...
I'm reposting this old blogpost this week since we've been talking about joy on Monday.
How do you get your joy back if you've lost it?
Today's sermon was about love and joy.
The pastor put up a list of the love attributes from I Corinthians 13 love chapter. My husband whispered in my ear, "I could do better at number five." I whispered back, "I could do better at number four." He tightened his arm around my shoulder and grinned at me.
An honest confession.
We aren't perfect, oh no. Sometimes I take myself way too seriously. Seriously, I do.
Two weeks before while in line for the church potluck, someone passed us and asked if the Love's were in love. Well, we'd just spent most of the prior afternoon in a little spat. We looked at each other and answered honestly with a smile and wrinkled nose: "well, we love each other, but we don't much like each other today." The older coupler in front of us started to giggle and turned to say, "it's good to be honest." We all giggled.
And it was good to be honest.
Honest confession is a good thing. Sharing honestly helps break the spell of uber-entrenchment of taking sides--of digging in and insisting I'm right. It helps me laugh at myself. It helps me know "I'm not the only one." It lets love and joy spring up again.
And so when we got home from church today, Ted picked up a dish rag and sidled up beside me at the sink to help with dishes. And all my defenses melted away....
What do you do to get your joy back? Have you picked up a dish rag lately? Made some breakfast to serve in bed? Cleaned your son's room for him? Made a favorite meal? Made a little confession? Laughed at yourself?
I Corinthians 13: 4-7: Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Sometimes joy isn't only a choice, it's an action.
Start simple.
The rest will come if you are willing.
P. S. Don't you love the vintage pic of these two washing dishes?! :)
#ChooseJoy #ActOnIt
-------------Blog post by Anne Love-
Writer of Historical Romance inspired by her family roots.
Nurse Practitioner by day.
Wife, mother, writer by night.
Coffee drinker--any time.
Find me at: www.anneloveauthor.com
Find me on:Facebook
Find me on: PinterestFind me on: GoodreadsFind me on: TwitterFind me on: Instagram
September 18, 2017
Monday's Devo: #ChooseJoyWonderWomen
Anne here.
Ever learn a new word, then you see it absolutely everywhere?
Unbidden. Unsought. It's just every where.
"Holy Toledo!" Sunrise morning of #LProof17
Joy is that word this year.
When a friend simply shot out a prayer request on June 1, 2017 to five other friends...
We'd done that before countless times.
But this time was different.
The prayer thread of texts took on a life of it's own through the next three and a half months.
It wound through our own trials and those of our family's...
...a failed licensing exam, a son's first seizure, flea infestations for two kids, multiple car break-downs and a "worst weekend ever", the tragic premature loss of two brothers, waiting for work visas, two kids moving away--one an hour away, the other over the ocean, yet another awaiting missionary assignments to potentially unsafe places in the world, a dog bite and legal battles, a broken down truck on the interstate, a major leak and a moldy siege that shut down a business to await clean-up, an unexpected suddenly empty nest, job interviews for young adult children trying to find their way in life, a feverish night of sweats and tossing, bronchitis, back pain...
On and on the text prayers went out.
At some point along the way...we began to say--WHAT ON EARTH IS GOING ON HERE?
Scriptures of encouragement. Fasting. Songs of praise. Words of comfort.
And then...
The words. We choose joy.
Followed by some more texts about being each other's "spiritual wonder women."
Standing in the line July 13th, receiving friends and family at my brother-in-law's viewing two hours from home, and one of these wonder women walks in, slides a wrist band on my wrist that read:
#ChooseJoyWonderWomen
Tears. Hugs. And in that moment I know.
I know.
My God is Sovereign. He is rock under my feet. No matter the circumstance.
This joy is my strength.
As a group, they book a hotel and purchase tickets for a Beth Moore conference. I know I have to go.
But life happens and I keep forgetting to purchase my registration until two weeks before.
More joy sightings happen. In a sermon on Sunday morning. In the posture of "Amen" as I read Beth Guckenberger's Start with Amen. A conversation over coffee. A Facebook post.
Yet I'm so late signing up for Beth Moore, I don't receive a wrist band in the mail for admission.
My email says, don't worry. Just show up at "Will Call". Sure enough it's there. My name on the list.
Anne Love. There it is. And I slide the band next to my #ChooseJoyWonderWomen band.
Settling in, I wonder what the Lord will say and I prepare to take notes.
The weeks before the conference there are still more reasons to wonder about joy in tough circumstances: Hurricane Harvey floods Houston, Wildfires in the NorthWest, Earthquake in Mexico, Hurricane Irma pummels the Caribbean and Florida, even a meteorite lights the sky near Banff, rumors of war threats from North Korea. The worst of times some say...enough to make you ask, what on earth is going on here?!
I look out over the crowd of nearly 5,000 women. Hungry. Thirsty. Weary. I think of the crowd. The number hits me. 5,000. Then the words are whispered...."there is more than enough food to fill the multitude here today..." And she begins... "the worse of times... is the best timing..."
My God is Sovereign. He is food for my soul. No matter the journey. This joy is my strength.
We stand together to rock some awesome worship, then delve into Colossians.
She reminds us:
--"We are sojourners in a land of woundings & wonders."
--"Woundings pale in the wakefulness to His wonder."
--"God has unavoidable affinity for mystery."
--"Security in the mystery is knowing God's mystery revealed."
We dig deep into verses, truths about life, losing vision, trials, woundings.
And finally, she reminds us:
--"No mystery fascinates the unbeliever more than the believer's joy."
She challenges us to "get serious about fighting for our joy!"
Standing for the benediction she reads a simple verse from Song of Solomon, chapter 8, verse 5:
"Who is that coming up from the wilderness leaning on her beloved?"
"Woman, you are the wonder. Leaning on Him." You who sojourn with Him, your beloved. It's you.
And it's a mysterious wonder.
And there it is again.
#ChooseJoyWonderWomen
My joy in the Lord is my strength, not because I've never been wounded. Not because I've never lost a dear loved one. Not because I'm pretending to be happy. Not because I'm wishing for a better day ahead.
But because I know Who I am leaning on. Because I know He is rock to me. Because He is my beloved. Because He has sojourned with me, and because I choose to sojourn leaning on Him in every circumstance.
Readers:
How will you choose?
How will you travel this journey?
Leave your prayer requests this week.
Let's see where joy will strengthen us!
#ChooseJoyWonderWomen
#LProof17
#HolyToledoWonderWoman!
-------------Blog post by Anne Love-
Writer of Historical Romance inspired by her family roots.
Nurse Practitioner by day.
Wife, mother, writer by night.
Coffee drinker--any time.
Find me at: www.anneloveauthor.com
Find me on:FacebookFind me on: PinterestFind me on: GoodreadsFind me on: TwitterFind me on: Instagram
Ever learn a new word, then you see it absolutely everywhere?
Unbidden. Unsought. It's just every where.
"Holy Toledo!" Sunrise morning of #LProof17Joy is that word this year.
When a friend simply shot out a prayer request on June 1, 2017 to five other friends...
We'd done that before countless times.
But this time was different.
The prayer thread of texts took on a life of it's own through the next three and a half months.
It wound through our own trials and those of our family's...
...a failed licensing exam, a son's first seizure, flea infestations for two kids, multiple car break-downs and a "worst weekend ever", the tragic premature loss of two brothers, waiting for work visas, two kids moving away--one an hour away, the other over the ocean, yet another awaiting missionary assignments to potentially unsafe places in the world, a dog bite and legal battles, a broken down truck on the interstate, a major leak and a moldy siege that shut down a business to await clean-up, an unexpected suddenly empty nest, job interviews for young adult children trying to find their way in life, a feverish night of sweats and tossing, bronchitis, back pain...
On and on the text prayers went out.
At some point along the way...we began to say--WHAT ON EARTH IS GOING ON HERE?
Scriptures of encouragement. Fasting. Songs of praise. Words of comfort.
And then...
The words. We choose joy.
Followed by some more texts about being each other's "spiritual wonder women."
Standing in the line July 13th, receiving friends and family at my brother-in-law's viewing two hours from home, and one of these wonder women walks in, slides a wrist band on my wrist that read:
#ChooseJoyWonderWomen
Tears. Hugs. And in that moment I know.
I know.
My God is Sovereign. He is rock under my feet. No matter the circumstance.
This joy is my strength.
As a group, they book a hotel and purchase tickets for a Beth Moore conference. I know I have to go.
But life happens and I keep forgetting to purchase my registration until two weeks before.
More joy sightings happen. In a sermon on Sunday morning. In the posture of "Amen" as I read Beth Guckenberger's Start with Amen. A conversation over coffee. A Facebook post.
Yet I'm so late signing up for Beth Moore, I don't receive a wrist band in the mail for admission.
My email says, don't worry. Just show up at "Will Call". Sure enough it's there. My name on the list.
Anne Love. There it is. And I slide the band next to my #ChooseJoyWonderWomen band.
Settling in, I wonder what the Lord will say and I prepare to take notes.
The weeks before the conference there are still more reasons to wonder about joy in tough circumstances: Hurricane Harvey floods Houston, Wildfires in the NorthWest, Earthquake in Mexico, Hurricane Irma pummels the Caribbean and Florida, even a meteorite lights the sky near Banff, rumors of war threats from North Korea. The worst of times some say...enough to make you ask, what on earth is going on here?!
I look out over the crowd of nearly 5,000 women. Hungry. Thirsty. Weary. I think of the crowd. The number hits me. 5,000. Then the words are whispered...."there is more than enough food to fill the multitude here today..." And she begins... "the worse of times... is the best timing..."
My God is Sovereign. He is food for my soul. No matter the journey. This joy is my strength.
We stand together to rock some awesome worship, then delve into Colossians.
She reminds us:
--"We are sojourners in a land of woundings & wonders."
--"Woundings pale in the wakefulness to His wonder."
--"God has unavoidable affinity for mystery."
--"Security in the mystery is knowing God's mystery revealed."
We dig deep into verses, truths about life, losing vision, trials, woundings.
And finally, she reminds us:
--"No mystery fascinates the unbeliever more than the believer's joy."
She challenges us to "get serious about fighting for our joy!"
Standing for the benediction she reads a simple verse from Song of Solomon, chapter 8, verse 5:
"Who is that coming up from the wilderness leaning on her beloved?"
"Woman, you are the wonder. Leaning on Him." You who sojourn with Him, your beloved. It's you.
And it's a mysterious wonder.
And there it is again.
#ChooseJoyWonderWomen
My joy in the Lord is my strength, not because I've never been wounded. Not because I've never lost a dear loved one. Not because I'm pretending to be happy. Not because I'm wishing for a better day ahead.
But because I know Who I am leaning on. Because I know He is rock to me. Because He is my beloved. Because He has sojourned with me, and because I choose to sojourn leaning on Him in every circumstance.
Readers:
How will you choose?
How will you travel this journey?
Leave your prayer requests this week.
Let's see where joy will strengthen us!
#ChooseJoyWonderWomen
#LProof17
#HolyToledoWonderWoman!
-------------Blog post by Anne Love-
Writer of Historical Romance inspired by her family roots.
Nurse Practitioner by day.
Wife, mother, writer by night.
Coffee drinker--any time.
Find me at: www.anneloveauthor.com
Find me on:FacebookFind me on: PinterestFind me on: GoodreadsFind me on: TwitterFind me on: Instagram
September 13, 2017
The Craft Fair
This past weekend, I got to spend time with Gabrielle at the Little Falls Arts and Crafts Fair. We weren't shopping, though there were hundreds of vendors there. Nope, we were talking to folks about our books, meeting readers, and generally having a great time!
One of the nice things for us, is that the book sales are all handled by The Good Book, the Christian Bookstore in Little Falls. We don't have to handle any of the ordering, the inventory, the sales, etc. We just get to meet folks, talk about our stories, and sign the copies they buy.
This is my second year at the fair, and Gabe's third, and we've learned a few things along the way.
1. If you aren't on your feet, greeting people, engaging folks, making eye contact, most people will walk right on by.
2. A canopy is a wonderful bonus. Last year we were in the bright sunshine, and it was plenty hot! This year, we had a canopy tent, and it was so much nicer...and a bonus for when a few rain squalls went through on Sunday afternoon.
3. Readers are the best. There were several folks who came by this year who had purchased a book last year and were looking forward to reading something new from us. There were a couple of folks who drove to the craft fair expressly to see US! One sweet woman brought a bag full of books for us to sign, and purchased the newest titles that she didn't yet have. (That was so awesome!)
4. I need more bookmarks. I handed out nearly all my bookmarks on the first day. Next year, I will be better prepared!
Have you been to a craft fair? Would you think to buy books at a craft fair?
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September 11, 2017
Seasons
For years, this is what the beginning of September looked like for me. Our family room was the school room, and each of the kids had a desk right by mine. New curriculum, maps, alphabet charts, calendars.
Homeschool. Being the mom and the teacher, keeping the schedule, keeping everyone on task, keeping the ship headed in the right direction.
But my youngest graduated from high school several years ago. No more school room. No new curriculum (Though I still get the occasional catalog in the mail.) No new school supplies. No schedule to keep.
I thought life would slow down for me, and in some ways it has. No more running to basketball practices or games, no more piano lessons, no more swim club.
And yet, my time is still full. Now I sew more. I cross-stitch. I have more time to write, to read, to watch my newest passion - Rugby!
But this past weekend, as I was visiting Gabrielle for a book signing event, I saw her parts of speech posters, her homeschool chore and schoolwork charts, and all the new curriculum on the shelf, and a part of me really missed that time. It was challenging, and there were days when I didn't want to do it, but homeschooling went by way too fast.
How about you? Are you in a new season of life?
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