Lisa M. Buske's Blog, page 111

TOP's Tuesday: The Birthday Bash Winds Down

This month has moved quite swiftly, don't you agree? I love how quickly returning to the routine of going to school each day is. As most of you know I am working for the same school district but in a new building this year. I was nervous prior to the first day of school because of the unknown. I want to tell you, a mere three weeks in, and I'M LOVING IT!

Change is not always a bad thing. Change can be scary, stressful, and sometimes even dreaded yet when we accept the change and move forward with it, instead of fighting it ~ only wonderful things can result. The teacher I'm working with has been a friend for years, and was a dear friend to my sister too. This helped my transition because I knew who I would be working with outside of the classroom so we just needed to figure each other out as educators for a cohesive classroom.

I figured it would take a couple weeks, I'm happy to say I was wrong. After a couple days, the laughter and finishing each other's projects and thoughts began. It has been a joyful, fun, and amazing few weeks. I look forward to the year ahead. Not only am I making oodles of new friends, meeting new families, and enjoying being "in town" daily ~ I cherish the time spent getting to know a friend a lot better. She has already been such an encouragement to me, more than she might know. As I reflect on the past few weeks I am grateful for much. In some respects, the drive to school with Mags as company and my new school family greeting me each day has toughened me up. It has been an emotional month.

Thanks to the change I've enjoyed conversation about high school, life, and girl talk each morning on the way to school instead of shedding tears. On the days prior to Heidi's birthday, instead of grieving the day to come, I shared memories and highlights of things to come with my family and friends.

I found myself missing my Gram and Aunt Nancy more than normal this month. I'm not sure why, maybe it was reading some of my aunt's notes in preparation for a community event (which we didn't make it to due to being sick), or because we've been going through pictures again for upcoming blogs. Whatever the reason, I'm thankful for the memories. My book, Encourage Others: One Day at a Time, is inspired by these two woman and their dedication to send cards, notes, and goodies to others on the special days in their lives. For more information on this book, click on the picture of my Gram and I above.

With less than a week left to enter for your chance to win a FREE book ~ be sure to enter. There are two ways to enter: 1) Write a review on Amazon.com for any (or all) of my three books. Each review enters you for a chance to win - so you could actually have 3 entries. 2) With your copy of any of my books, or with the cover showing on your Kindle - take a picture of you reading the book, the book displayed somewhere at your house or office, or whatever creative way you choose and then post the picture on the "Where's Heidi?" Facebook page. My parents are going to pick their favorite pic - so far, no one has entered so if you do it this week, the odds are in your favor.

Other than that - enjoy your family and friends, cherishing each memory. And don't forget there is another day like Heidi's birthday coming on the day double her birthdate. Hint, hint!

A woman who downloaded Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey posted this on the Where's Heidi? Facebook Page today: "I just wanted to thank you for the free kindle download of your book. I lost my little sister just over seven years ago. All though it was to domestic violence and not kidnapping it was still helpful to read about someone else who felt and
continues to feel the same feelings. Thank you Lisa and god bless you. I pray someday Heidi comes home to you and your family."  E.L.B Click on any of the below photos for a direct link... Write a Review on Amazon for a chance to win a FREE book! Post a creative picture with one of my books in
it to Facebook -
tag me so I know you posted! My parents are picking the winner! Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey & When the Waves Subside: There is Hope are on sale for $4.99 on Kindle What is your favorite aspect of my blog? TOP's Tuesday?

Dr. Mary Starr - Total Wellness Doc & Mom Visits Again!

I could write a formal introduction for Dr. Mary but I decided not to for a couple reasons. First, she isn't new to the blog and she is more than a doctor...she is my friend. Another reason, she might not be new to One Sister's Journey but  you might be, so she deserves an introduction. Mary and I met the first time through my sister, Heidi M Allen. Only God knew the unexpected and different paths we would each travel from the halls of Bishop Cunningham and the volleyball court to today.

Our relationship started with Heidi as the common denominator yet transitioned years later, and even years after Heidi's abduction. My friend Laurie introduced me to Young Living Essential Oils. I started with Peppermint Essential Oil for my headaches, then Thieves Essential Oil to keep me healthy, and then the Ningxia Red Juice and so much more. I decided to sign up as a distributor so I could get these life changing products at a reduced cost. The more I experienced the benefits of them, the easier it was to share with others and I started to train under Dr. Mary's to be an active distributor.

I learned so much from Dr. Mary about the oils, health, wellness, business, and marketing. Many of these skills and organizational strategies I continue to incorporate in my writing and speaking because she trained me to be a successful business woman, not just a Young Living Essential Oil distributor. After a couple years though I felt God calling me to write and finish Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey. I explained this to Dr. Mary and she gave me her love, prayers, and support as I moved forward to reach this dream and help others.

It was during the mentorship our relationship transformed into friendship and this bond lasts today, even though we both are on different, yet similar journeys. I still use Young Living products daily and believe in them.

If you are interested, visit their website: https://www.youngliving.org/ If you decide these are products you are interested in to help with a healthier living, you can sign up as a "retail customer" or an "independent distributor". Can I ask you a favor, if you decide to sign up, would you enter #799780 as your sponsor ID? This will give me a little credit and a chance to earn some free product. I apologize if this promo offends anyone, this is never my intent, but thought I'd share in case someone is interested.

Even though I don't utilize my distributorship as a business, I maintain it so I can purchase my products at a reduced cost. Dr. Mary is the expert and go to person, she has a Facebook page too so people can access her knowledge and help live: https://www.facebook.com/TheTotalWellnessDocandMom 

The greatest attribute of Mary is her heart. She consistently gives of herself to help others be the best woman, man, or child they can be. Initially when she mentored me with the essential oils, neither of us were believers. Since then, we've both realized the need for God in our lives and the relationship with Jesus that is necessary to get through the day. The last time we got together, to tape the video below -- we laughed, cried, and shared testimonies. God is so cool. Although walking in different directions, our lives were actually on a parallel path - something only God could orchestrate.

Please visit Dr. Mary's site to read her blog today:

Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey, When the Waves Subside: There is Hope, and Encourage Others: One Day at a Time. All 3 books are available through Amazon.com - Where's Heidi? and When the Waves Subside are also on Kindle for $4.99. Starting in October, the Kindle versions will be available at an even more reduced price when you purchase the print copy too, as part of Amazon's "Matchbook" program. Dr. Mary Starr is a Chiropractor and Essential oil Expert. For more than a decade she has helped women and children find better health naturally. She specializes in Nutrition and Essential oils and has helped thousands improve or regain their health with simple solutions.

In 2005 she retired from a full time practice and created a portable business allowing her to travel all over the United States sharing about Nature's healing medicine Young Living Essential Oils. Today she works with more than 40 Part time and Full time associates who serve over 3000 clients across the world.

At 35 she had her first son Joshua and transitioned her portable business to her home and online. In 2011 she became a Mommy Blogger and shares her expertise in natural health, weight loss, stress relief and the highs and lows of parenthood in her bi-weekly newsletter and blogs. Because she has worked with women, moms, and children for over a decade and has struggled with her own issues of infertility, food allergies, and weight management you will find the blogs and content on her website down to earth and filled with hope. 

She is happily married to Jay Carter a genius, and owner of  http://www.starrhost.com who loves her failed attempts at making the perfect healthy cookie and lets her win in tennis.

To visit Dr. Mary's site: click on the photo of she and I through the video camera

To read Dr. Mary's first blog about Where's Heidi?: Click on the top photo of us

To read today's blog - Click on the Where's Heidi? cover photo or copy and paste this link:

One Sister's Journey Lisa M Buske Voice of the Missing from Dr Mary Starr Carter on Vimeo.

What is one new thing you learned from reading
Dr. Mary's blog today?

Did you leave a comment o
n her site too?

3 Aspects of Health: Part II ~ Your Spiritual Health

Yesterday we talked about our physical health and three things necessary to be physically fit, things we need in our toolbox to be successful – an accountability partner, a determined heart and mind, and an ability to persevere. Today I want to build from these aspects of physical health & their relationship to our spiritual health.

First and foremost, “What do I mean by ‘spiritual health’?” If our physical health is about the health and wellbeing of our body then our spiritual health logically focuses on our heart and soul. The inner part of us that strengthens and fuels our motivation and ability to model Christ-like behaviors, thoughts, and living.

“Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.”  1 Corinthians 6:19-20

Have you ever stopped to think about this fact? Not only did God create the world and all in it, He created you and me! Psalm 139 tells us how God not only formed us in our mother’s wombs but did so that we are each unique. This is a miracle in itself.

My sister and I were similar yet very different. My husband has seven siblings – each very different. I find this to be so cool, don’t you?

So don’t question why you are the way you are, instead thank God that there is no one else like you and you have a purpose and mission in this life, unique to you and your situations. This is exciting stuff! Then to make things even better, when we acknowledge God and invite Him to be a part of our life, the Holy Spirit replaces our Jiminy Cricket of the world. We now have the Spirit of God living within us.

If God dwells in our heart, then shouldn’t we desire and strive to maintain our spiritual health? Of course we should. This is not always easy yet it’s possible. Here are three steps to help us be successful in keeping our hearts clean, pure, and most important…healthy.

“…train yourself to be godly. For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.”
1 Timothy 4:7b – 8 1st: STAY CONNECTED to your Accountability Partner
This isn’t necessarily the same person you count on for your physical health, but then again, sometimes it is. This person is the one you go to when your faith is struggling, for spiritual guidance. It’s also the same one God uses to call you out on the hard things in life you might not want to deal with, like the sin and poor choices you might be making. 

God is the Ultimate Accountability Partner but since we don’t always listen, He uses other people in our life to deliver His rebuke, encouragement, message or whatever it is we need to keep moving forward. In order to make good choices and recognize where God is leading you, you need to be listening for His voice. The only way you can do this is to carve out time in your schedule to stop, listen, and learn. Turn the television, phone, and computer off in order to keep your connection with God the strongest one in your life. 

Do you know what the fancy word for staying connected is...PRAYER…and all prayer is…is talking and listening to God. 2nd: READ DAILY to fuel your ability to persevere
So now you have set time aside at least once a day, if not throughout the day to talk with God and listen for His direction.

Your connection is there, but is the lines clear? How do you decipher if the thoughts you have are your own, God’s, or of the enemy? What Book do you think you need to read to help you with this?

If you answered, “The BIBLE!” then you are closer than you might have thought to a healthy spiritual life. The Bible is God’s Word – His words for us. When we read the Bible daily, we are able to discern Truth from the lies we “hear” in our thought processes. 

You can start in Genesis and read through Revelation each year, read the book or verses you need to help you through the day after looking up a topic in the concordance, or simply open the Bible and start reading. We don’t want to be reading the Bible “to get something out of it” yet at the same time, I know when I started to read mine – this was the only way I knew how or that kept my attention. This summer I found a Chronological Bible at a lawn sale for $.50 and this is helping me to read through the Bible versus reading with the purpose to get something out of it. One thing I do know is this, when thoughts cross my mind and I’m unsure if it something God is asking of me or if it’s something of the opposite – I will go to my concordance and look up whatever it  is in a few spots to make sure I’m not reading more into a thought. Often, it is my own pride or goals. Be sure to keep yourself in check and when in doubt, compare it to the One Book, and God, that doesn’t lie. 3rd: Worship & Fellowship strengthen your ability to persevere “Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well.” 3 John 2

A third way you can ensure a healthy and happy heart is to never give up on meeting together. We all face times when we don’t want to gather with others, especially joyful Christians worshipping the Lord BUT these are the times we need to be there the most. My goodness, this morning I awoke early with anticipation for church but as I started puttering around the house and sipping my coffee I thought, “It would be nice to call it a jammy day.”

I told my husband and as soon as I said the words aloud I knew deep in my heart that I HAD to get to church. I’ve come to learn the times when I really want to stay home are the days I need to be there the most. Today was no different, Mike Shea preached from the pulpit this morning and as I listened thought, “Thank you God”, because Mike was touching on some of the same things I’m working through for this series. I love it when that happens. If I stayed home, I would of wasted time for the words, verses, or ideas to pull it all together. 

God is faithful and He deserves our time, praise, and thanksgiving. There is ALWAYS SOMETHING TO BE THANKFUL for! Some days, weeks, months, and even years might be more difficult to see the Light yet when we incorporate prayer, reading our Bible and gathering with others who believe in God and the Truth of the Bible – health is the only possibility. 
 
I encourage you on the days when you think “I can’t do this anymore”, instead of sharing this frustration with your friend or diary – pick up your Bible and read as you fall on your knees to communicate with the One who will NEVER LET YOU DOWN or leave you.

You are never alone and the greatest of health issues you will face in life is not disease but one of hopeless heart. Don’t lose hope – Hope is eternal! If you don’t believe me, read, Where’s Heidi? One Sister’s Journey. I gave up on God; He didn’t give up on me. It is never too late. Never isn’t a word in God’s dictionary. Click on any photo for a link to Amazon to purchase your copy.

Above all else, guard your heart,
for it is the wellspring of life.
Proverbs 4:23

Click on above photo
for a direct link to
Part I of this series What are you doing daily
to maintain a
healthy spiritual life?

Not so healthy?
No worries...God's been
waiting for you to ask.

What will be your first
step to making a change?

3 Aspects of Health: Part I - Your Physical Health

In life we have various aspects of our health we need to give proper attention to. There are three, did you know that? I must admit, until about 2004, I wasn’t aware we not only need to take care of our physical and emotional health, there is something called our spiritual health and wellbeing, who knew? Not me, but now that I do, they are physical, emotional, and spiritual. This is the first of a three part series, focusing on our health. Today we will discuss our physical health, tomorrow our spiritual health, and conclude with a blog on emotional health later next week.

This morning I joined over two hundred people in the heart of Mexico, Mexico, New York that is for the annual 5K Cider Run/Walk. Although this was the 23rd time our community came together for this event, it was my first time participating. Why now? Simple, a friend and I started walking this summer and one day while enjoying our daily walk, one of us said “We should do the 5K Cider Walk” in jest. Well…after a little discussion we decided this was both a good idea and great incentive to stay focused and on task with our daily walking routine. 

I must say it worked. There were days to follow that we both said, “I don’t want to get out today” or “It’s too hot” or “It’s raining” but in the end, until school started anyway, we maintained our daily walk. Sometimes earlier in the morning before the kids woke up and our hubbies left for work and other times later at night after the sun started to set and the temperature dropped too. Yes, there are days we had to forego the walks because we are Mom’s and wives too but for the most part, we rocked it.

Do you know why we rocked it?

Here are the three basic reasons I think we succeeded and not only set a goal but also reached it. Are you ready? 1st: An Accountability Partners
I could not have accomplished the goal “To run in the annual 5K Cider Run/Walk” without these people. Who are they you ask? I must start within the walls of my own home – Ed and Mary! Without Ed and Mary helping with the jobs around the house, I wouldn’t have the extra hour or two to exercise daily. And of course, my walking buddy, Lisa. Without her texts, calls, and fun time of fellowship while we walk – I know I would have pulled the cover over my head many mornings rather than walk. Thank you all! (Thanks for taking our picture Kim!) 2nd: A Determined Heart and Mind
To reach any goal, we need to be determined! Yet, some goals only require the mind to be involved. For me, to walk and now add the running, I need something more than “completing the walk” as a motivation. This is where my heart comes into play. As I finished the last mile solo with nothing but the wind and my own thoughts as company I found myself thinking of Heidi. My sister loved to run and always tried to get me to go with her. She would say, “It’s exhilarating, come on. You’ll like it once you try.” I never believed her but she was so right. I finished today’s 5K with thoughts of my sister flooding my heart and mind, then, they transitioned to the Rochester area where the family of Brian Sullivan and others joined Laurie Travis for the annual Ride for the Missing. Not only did I finish but I tried to run the last quarter a mile on the track to cross the finish line in memory of our missing and their families. The next goal is a half marathon in March. This one, I’ll run (or maybe walk) in memory of a friend, who is free from cancer and celebrating her life in heaven now.
(This photo is at mile marker 2 but I didn't have someone to take my picture so this is the best I could do. teehee Thanks Shelly, hope your timer started working again!) 3rd: An Ability to Persevere
Why perseverance? Easy…when we strive to reach a goal we will inevitably face obstacles trying to stop us from reaching this goal. My friend Lisa and I had a choice this summer. We could have slept in, stayed inside when the weather was too hot or just opted not to try but instead we recognized our need to be healthy and supported, motivated, and encouraged each other to push through the weather, busy schedules, and negative attitudes because we knew something better was to come. We were so excited to cross the finish line today. Our husbands joined us for the day so it was like a double date at the 5K. How cool is that? I know, right? Awesome.

To read the ending stats and award winners, click on the top photo or any of the photos with the mile markers for a link Auyer Racetiming website for more details. Thanks to “playing” with a former student, I placed 1st overall for the women in the walking division. God must have loved my laughter when I realized they were calling my name. Too much fun today! (This is me finishing the race and off in the distance on the road are my walking buddies today, I was playing with children so ran ahead, go figure. lol)

Thank you everyone for supporting the library and a special thanks to the volunteers, Oswego County Sheriffs, and Mexico Fire Department for keeping us all safe today. It's as easy as 1, 2, 3....Get Fit!
What is your first goal?

Social Media Guru Blogs About "Where's Heidi?"

Do you see the smile on Debbie's face? I only met Debbie this summer while doing an interview with Dr. Mary Starr, the Total Wellness Doc & Mom ( http://www.thetotalwellnessdoc.com/ ). The first thing I noticed immediately was Debbie's smile! She is always smile and has such joy in her walk, conversation, and being - it just oozes from her and you can't help but smile from ear to ear yourself when you are in her company. For that matter, just looking at the pictures and my cheeks hurt from smiling. Maybe it's just me, but I don't think so.

I've had the pleasure of seeing Debbie a couple times since our initial meeting when she "saved the day" on a different occasion this summer. We ran out of Balance Complete (the protein shake my daughter and I drink daily) and I didn't want to go almost a week without it while waiting for my order to come in so I contacted Dr. Mary, she put out an email to her contacts and Debbie responded within moments. By the end of the day, we had our shake and then I replaced it when my order came. Both times, Debbie's smile and joy just warmed my heart. She is one sweet person.

As if all this good stuff isn't enough, Debbie uses her powers for good. Debbie runs, "Social Media Content Management Services", http://www.debbietwomey.com/ , among other things. If you are looking for someone to help you get your social media off the ground, expand your reach, or grow your business - then you need to contact Debbie. She is ingenious and helping many reach their goals and more. I think one of the best part about this particular aspect of Debbie's business, are her hours, 5 p.m. - 10 p.m. This is when I tend to do most my writing and speaking work, since I work full-time teaching the kiddos in our area. You rock Debbie!

To learn more about Debbie and read her blog about Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey, click on the photo above or use this URL:
http://www.debbietwomey.com/heidi-allens-sister-shares-her-story  Debbie Twomey has dedicated her life to the care and welfare of children across the U.S. and the journey has been a growing and learning experience that she feels privileged to share with others. She not only incorporates her professional experience, but her personal trial and errors to allow you to understand that the evolution of parenting is not always without its speed bumps.

Debbie implements imagination, education and experience to bring her unique wisdom simply and efficiently by addressing the specific needs of parent’s world-wide. She blends functional and worthwhile pointers that can save you time and money. Her pointers withstand vigorous and energetic kids, are practical and easy to apply and pretty straightforward.  Are there questions you need answered or stories you'd love to hear regarding parenting? 
    
Social Media is a new direction in Debbie's life as a result of her work as a Virtual Assistant. Debbie is passionate about children and social media offers insights and tips for blogging and offers her services as your personal social media manager. She is now training with Sandi Krakowski as a Social Media Manager who will assist parents who blog to manage their social media platforms and increase their REACH. Thanks Again Debbie ~ Be Sure to Visit Debbie's site to read
her blog about Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey

TOP's Tuesday: One Question Leaks A Surprise

TOP's Tuesday is a day set aside to keep everyone updated with upcoming speaking events, book signings, and of course any publishing news. Although every weekend is booked this month, with the exception of the New Haven Farmer's Markets on Monday evenings, they're either family functions or aren't a public event.

Looking ahead though, there are opportunities to get your copy of any of my three books, have a book you ordered online signed, and to hear me speak:

??Saturday, October 5th ?? 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Craft Show Near Mexico High School Football Field, to benefit Mexico's Pop Warner (unconfirmed at this time, waiting to see what the weather is like, this is an outside craft/vendor fair - and I do have books so want to make a wise choice)

Saturday, October 26th 11 a.m. at the Lowville Public Library - speaking & book signing

Saturday, November 9th Craft Show at New Haven Town Hall

Sunday, November 24th Speaking at the First Baptist Church of Baldwinsville during the morning service with the pastor and then doing my "Tragedy to Triumph" presentation afterward the service and lunch

Saturday, November 30th Pulaski Kinney's book signing

December Praying for a specific event in December - God introduced an amazing possibility to me for a weekend in December. The non profit organization is interested in having me and I'm honored to be asked, nothing is confirmed as of yet because they need to raise the funds to cover my travel expenses. Thrilled they thought of me and asked, now praying God provides the way to get there. Mags is praying they not only raise enough for my travel but for my PR gal (daughter) to travel with me. Love that kid, she is excited and enjoys sharing hope with other families too. We'll see...

Scheduling for the Fall and into Spring of 2014: lbuskewriter@aol.com

Was asked while checking out the other day, a store associate asked,
"So when is the next book coming out?"
I smiled, looked at my daughter, back to the clerk and said, "Christmas".
Her expression was priceless...then she asked, "What is it about?"
I told her I couldn't tell because it is a gift for my parents.
Her response, "I just got goose bumps, I can't wait."
Guess the secrets out...I can't lie, my smirk gave it away.

Mags and I smiled as we walked out of the store because of this conversation. The obvious reason is because she enjoyed Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey enough to inquire about another book. The less obvious, my inability to keep a secret.

Instead of saying, "I'm always writing something." I let the secret out of the bag. I wasn't going to announce I hoped to release something new around Christmas until a couple weeks before since it's a gift for my parents BUT...since I leaked it out, I might as well shout it.

Yes, I am working on a book to be released on or after Christmas. What is the title? I'm not telling. What is it about? I'm not telling. What type of book is it? I'm not sharing that either. The first people to learn the title, subject, and see the cover will be my parents. My target date is December 24th, 2013. This is a goal, still a lot of work to be done to reach that point - it may be only my parents who see the proof copy on Christmas, depending on the progress made in the next couple months.

I'm always writing and have a few ideas floating around in my head but right now I'm working on a book for my parents - their Christmas gift. A story I hope children and adults alike will enjoy reading together. With that being said, I better go before I reveal too many clues and my Mom or Dad figure out what the book is about or the genre. I know they will smile, laugh, and say "You got us again!". What do you think the
December 2013 release is about?

"Cache a Predator" Author Blogs About "Where's Heidi?"

It is time for another guest to join us for Heidi's "Birthday Bash" this September. Today, Michelle Weidenbenner joins us again. Michelle  shared a review of Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey this spring as part of the book release promotion yet something has changed since her last visit. Since then, she released her book, Cache a Predator.

I found this book amazing and couldn't put it down. I continue to recommend it to others but want to forewarn you there is some (not much) cursing and the topic is a bit intense BUT Michelle's writing is so fabulous, I was never offended or grossed out. The storyline weaves beautifully and I read until I couldn't keep my eyes open a couple nights. I even read it aloud on the deck one night when we had friends over and they had to get their own copy. It is that good.

Anyway, leave a comment to congratulate Michelle on her release when to visit too. It has already won an award, how cool is that? But today Michelle isn't here to talk about her fabulous new release, she joins us to share about my book, or maybe books. To read Michelle's blog - click on the photo above or use the link at the end of today's blog. Thank you again for following, reading, and sharing. Remember, the Kindle version of my two available on Kindle, are now only $4.99. I’m Michelle, an ordinary lady (and animal lover), and a full time employee of the Kingdom of God. My ministry in His Kingdom is to write novels and teach adults and teens what I’ve learned along my ten-year journey. If you’re an adult or teen looking for a writing resource center, you’ve come to the right place. If you love to write like I do I hope you’ll find handy tools here that will improve your stories. If you’re not a writer, that’s okay.

Everyone is welcome and maybe you have a good story to tell. Since my writing toolbox is over-flowing, I’ve decided to spring clean, dump out a few gadgets, and give some of them away. If you’ve come here to learn, please browse for a while. I hope you find the tool you’re looking for–even if it’s random.

What you’ll find here:  Tuesdays I share a writing tooltip, Friday are my favorite days–not only because it’s the weekend, but because I share teen’s writing and am THEIR fan–encouraging them in their writing journey. (Please contact me if you’d like to share your story.) And one day a week I teach RANDOM writing skills. I love to dissect movies and books and call it MOVIE/BOOK BIOLOGY. Please subscribe and share my blog with others.

Can’t find the tool you need? Knock at my door and ask. (Or shoot me an email.) I’ll scrounge around until I find it - mail to: mweidenbenner@comcast.net

Author of CACHE a PREDATOR, a mystery/crime novel with a GEOCACHING theme. My other wips include: Willow, Love is Just a Word, Kelly’s Story, Eclair, and The Vision in a Kiss. I’ve been published in Adoptive Families, Brio Magazine, Splickety Magazine, Kyria, The Writer’s Digest and have won contests in both The Writer’s Journal and The Writer’s Digest. Love is Just a Word was a bronze medalist is the 2010 Frasier Contest, and a 2011 semi-finalist in the ACFW Genesis Contest. To Visit Michelle at her website, click on her photo or copy and paste this URL: http://randomwritingrants.com/

To Read Michelle's blog about Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey, click on the first photo or copy and paste this URL:
http://randomwritingrants.com/2013/09/16/wheres-heidi-a-kidnapped-girl-and-her-sister-lisa-buske/ Be sure to click on either photo above to visit
Michelle's website and check out today's blog post
about Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey

Drum Roll Please...How Many FREE Downloads You Ask?

An aspect of having a book available on Kindle is the option to offer your book as a free download. Many authors, myself included, question this concept because after all, to give away your book can mean money lost. This is true but the majority of authors aren't writing for the money, and those that do, learn quickly they are in the wrong business. I write for a few reasons and none of which are to get rich.

I write first and foremost because I simply enjoy it. To write is a release for me. Sometimes the writing expresses much joy and other times the grief having a missing loved one can weigh on your heart. I write to encourage others so they know they aren't alone and there is hope. I write because it is one way to use my gifts and talents to help others to keep moving forward. Sometimes there are leaps forward but usually, it is one day at a time. The main thing is to see it's possible to move forward and survive after tragedy and loss.

So back to the initial question, "Why do authors offer their books as a free download when they don't make any money from the "sale"?" Easy, we write so others can read what we've written. How can I encourage, inspire, or relate how I found it possible to survive the loss of my sister if you don't read my book? Simple, unless you hear me speak, I can't. I can't speak for all authors out there but for me, to offer either of my books as a free Kindle download makes it possible for most to read the book or share it with a friend that might need it. During yesterday's FREE download, Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey was ranked #2 for Nonfiction/Religion & Spirituality/Inspirational Free downloads!

Oh my gosh, I was so excited, out of millions of books available, it was #2. Today, it is ranked #9 for paid Kindle books which means people are downloading the book still today. Thank you so much!!

We've decided to leave the cost of the Kindle download at $4.99 for now on, even past September to show our appreciation for your outpouring of support on Heidi's birthday yesterday with 619 copies of Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey downloaded for FREE. Keep sharing the hope with your friends and family - the cost of the Kindle version will remain $4.99 for now on. There is a direct link to Amazon when you click on the photo of the book above.

When you are at Amazon, be sure to check out my other books too. When the Waves Subside: There is Hope is also available on Kindle for $4.99. All three books are available in print form, my newest release is Encourage Others: One Day at a Time, this is an organization tool to remember the important people and dates associated with them throughout the year. Thank you again. An exciting announcement later this week ~ the Christmas decorations out at the stores today motivated me to start teasing my parents, and all of you, of something to come in December. As of 7 p.m. tonight - ranked #9 out of all Kindle Nonfiction/Religion & Spirituality/Inspirational books! If you already have the print copy of Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey, why did you also download the Kindle version? How many people did you share the opportunity with and why?

Happy Birthday Heidi M Allen ~ Always Remembered & Loved

Happy Saturday everyone! Initially today was going to be a buy day but this has changed dramatically. Instead of joining other women in Oswego County for the Fall "Wings of Grace" event in Sandy Creek and then spending the afternoon playing a distant relative, Rhoda Green Searles, for a community walk through history...I am spending it at home. Instead of absorbing a good message and sharing history, ginger ale and crackers are my nutrient, and rest is quiet is all I have to give.

BUT this  is not going to stop the birthday fun I already planned. Have you read Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey yet? Have you bought the print copy but would like a copy to bring with you? If so, then today is your lucky day.
Where's Heidi?
One Sister's Journey is a FREE KINDLE DOWNLOAD TODAY!!


This is my birthday gift to all of you.
In addition - When the Waves Subside: There is Hope is NOW ONLY
$4.99 on Kindle!

...encouragement for the grieving parent. This is the sign my
parents made in 1994... Oh, we had so much
fun together! Thank you for remembering Heidi...back to bed for me!

How do you relax on the weekend?

The phrase TGIF is used frequently here in the United States. If you are unfamiliar with this, let me introduce you to its meaning. TGIF stands for "Thank Goodness It's Friday!" I thought about researching the origin and the countries that use it but decided not to waste time on Friday afternoon and evening absorbed in research and working. I might still investigate a little further but for today, I'm going to revel in the fact, it is Friday!

The first payday of the school year, and at least until next week, there is money in my checking account again. My address should read, Buske's - Old Mother Hubbard Lane. So instead of computer time, we are getting groceries and enjoying some family time this evening. Tomorrow is an event-filled day, then Sunday, the Sabbath is full with church and a chicken-n-biscuit dinner afterwards. In addition to all this exciting stuff, tomorrow is my beautiful sister's birthday, she would have been thirty-eight years old if she hadn't been kidnapped nearly twenty years ago.

There will be a special blog tomorrow, a special FREE download, and who knows what else. I don't! I generally have Heidi's birthday tribute, devotion, activity, or whatever you want to call it planned out weeks in advance and finalize the days prior. This year I committed myself to a couple things so the day is not only my sister's birthday, but a day to join other Christian women in the county at Wings of Grace followed by a community event. A weekend of family, fun, fellowship, and enjoying life.

So until tomorrow's special blog and announcement, answer the following question - I hope you'll leave a comment. Who knows, you might have a great idea another family could try or know of an event others have been looking for. Have a wonderful night! ~ Relax ~ A ~ Work ~ B ~ Family Time ~ C How will you spend your weekend?