Lisa M. Buske's Blog, page 125

A Little Humor to Help Us Reflect...

What is the first thing that came to your mind 
after watching this video? Will you share your thoughts below?

Ode to the Indie Bookstore...

The Indie bookstore is more than shelves
of organized books and reading supplies

The Indie bookstore is another family
in your local community

You are greeted with a smile, hug, or handshake
and someone who truly cares to share

They know the recent releases and ones soon to come
so they rearrange the shelves and displays to keep us informed

Hometown authors, artists, and other creative talents
call the bookstore home and look forward to "keeping it local"

The Indie bookstore isn't just a building or a store of books
Its a feeling, a family, and a replica of America's past

The owners dedicate their days to serving you
and their staff does the same

There's no need for shopper's cards here since
your store's owners and staff care enough to remember

The atmosphere is quiet, warm, and welcoming
with a peace rarely found in our busy lives

Instead of heading to the mall or a larger store
this girl prefers the Indie bookstore 

Don't get me wrong, I love a deal
but the heart and love of our Indie bookstores

Keeps me coming back again and again
whether it is to buy or to sell

I'm thankful for my Indie family
dedicated to keeping it comfy, cozy, and community
~ Lisa M Buske ~

The above photo was taken April 3, 2013 at the 
River's End Bookstore, Oswego, New York. 
I stand with Bill & Mindy, our local Indie Bookstore owners. 

To visit their website - click on this photo. 
They are the only place in Oswego County at this time 
with signed copies of Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey in stock. 
They do special orders too.  Is there an Indie Bookstore in your neighborhood? 
What is your favorite thing about it? 
Will you share its name, location, & website?

Thankful for so much...

I might have a couple dents in my fender but this girl is celebrating and loving the new and improved version. I dreamed of being an author one day, only God knew the path I would travel to get to this point. I'm thankful for so much, beyond words this morning ~ what are you thankful for? Will you share?

I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, 
being rooted and established in love, may have power, 
together with all the Lord’s holy people, 
to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 
and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—
that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, 
according to his power that is at work within us, 
to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, 
for ever and ever! Amen.
Ephesians 3:16-21

Wonderful Wednesday...Week in Review

Prior to my book's release on April third, I knew my schedule was a bit ambitious and it would require God's strength and organization to share Where's Heidi? while working full-time. I am a "busy" person and enjoy it so many pray I use wisdom and discernment as I add book signings, speaking engagements, and days of rest to the calendar. For those who know me, sit down before you read the next sentence. 

Are you ready? I have told people "No" so as to keep my days of rest, just that. A couple of my declines were due to their times. I can't speak and share at a day conference or event during the school year. I'm blessed with a career that allows for personal time but these days have prior purposes - the Ride for Missing Children, our annual women's Spring retreat, and in case an emergency comes up. Thankfully, out of the organizations, only one didn't schedule for an evening or at a different date. Since April third, I've shared of my book's release in Albany, New York as part of New York State Missing Person's Day with the opportunity to share copies of Where's Heidi? with other siblings searching for a missing brother or sister. 

I was invited to sell and sign books as part of our town's 200th anniversary. This was a bittersweet day in itself as my Aunt Nancy was honored for her years of service as the town historian. The office was dedicated to her, with her predecessor doing a fabulous job of continuing my aunt's love of history and community. In addition to the opportunity to share copies of the book and visit with my New Haven family, I smiled as I watched Marie educate those in attendance of our fabulous town. In keeping with my love of keeping our community first, I held a private book sale and signing for the staff of the Mexico Academy and Central Schools. Some teachers came as friends to my Mom and aunts, others out of memories of teaching Heidi or myself, and some as my now friends and colleagues. It was a great afternoon with laughter, tears, and memories shared, I learned new things too, I love that.

My visit to the Pulaski Public Library proved to be another joyful event. We were welcomed with smiles and a beautiful set-up and area designated just for the book signing. It was a cozy setting where those coming for a book could sit, enjoy a cup of coffee and cookies, and visit. The first person there was a gentleman who has called and followed my writing progress since July 2010. He saved one dollar a month from his Social Security check to purchase my book. How sweet is that?

The weekend arrived and it was time to rest...NOT! Ed, Mags, and I traveled to Lagrangeville, New York so I could share with the women of the Crossroads Alliance Church and their neighboring churches. It was a fabulous turn out and an enjoyable time on the road with my family. We laughed, cried, and laughed a lot more. God is good!

This week I enjoyed an evening with my writers' group, scheduled a couple more speaking engagements, and prepare for a weekend of refreshing and retreating with the Alliance Women of the Northeastern District. One of my favorite weekends of the year. Some of the ladies have asked, "Will you have books at Refresh?" The answer is "YES!!" Yeah, a special thanks to Daisy and her team for allowing me this opportunity. While we are away, pray for Ed as he fends for himself while we are away. He is looking forward to some serious sports watching I think.

Upcoming speaking events and book signings are posted on the "Where's Heidi?" page of this website. They are also posted on the "Where's Heidi?" Facebook page - if you haven't liked the page yet, make sure you do so you can be notified when I'm in your neighborhood. 

Thank you all for your encouragement, prayers, and love. God blesses me through you. Are you enjoying life? I know we are...tragedy doesn't have to break us, it has potential to make us stronger! Thoughts?

T.O.P.'s Tuesday ~ Your Turn Today

Today is T.O.P.'s Tuesday! A day we have come to look forward to. Since I announced the release of Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey last summer, Tuesdays have been dedicated to remembering Heidi and highlighting the road to publication. 

Of course, Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey is available on Amazon.com and at the River's End Bookstore (Oswego, New York) yet the journey and joy of publication is only beginning. Six plus years of writing, editing, crying, praying, rewriting, and moving forward in faith have produced a book many are relating too.

Instead of boring you with how I think the book releases went, I thought I would share words from those reading or that have read Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey. Your comments, emails, and posts since April third continue to bless and encourage me.

Thank you! If you would like to share how Where's Heidi? touched your heart and life, please email, private message me on Facebook, or post directly to Facebook and you might see your words of hope to me, posted here on the blog. I've shared some below so those not on Facebook can read a few comments posted this week.

Click on the top photo, of a rose placed at the Heidi Allen Remembrance Garden on April 3, 2013, to read reviews of Where's Heidi? on Amazon.com. Feel free to leave one yourself too ~ each review equals an opportunity to share hope with someone deciding if this is the book he or she should invest money into. Words of Encouragement & Hope After Reading Where's Heidi?... "I just finished the book, wow thank you for sharing your story with us. I couldn't put it down. I was in Elementary school when this happened, and I remember it, and how I was so deeply affected by it. It changed my view of how even in small towns things can happy. In any event, thank you." Kelli

"This book is truly powerful. I cant stop reading I was having a very blah day and when I got home their it was waiting for me. I am almost done with it can't wait to get home and finish it so I can pass this special book to my sister and mom. Thanks for writing it." Carrielynn

"wow. just finished reading "Where's Heidi" by Lisa M Buske. For anyone searching for hope; read the book. What a journey for the Allen family to endure. Thank you for writing your story, Lisa. It took me back to those days when I prayed for Heidi's return and it reminded me of how faithful God is to heal the broken hearted." Kolleen

"Just finished the book in 2 sittings…I found myself not wanting to put it down and get to the end (which of course is really a beginning!!). I now will read it again much more reflectively using your discussion questions. Thank you, Lisa for sharing your story so honestly. It is heart-wrenching, emotionally raw, inspiring and soul searching. God bless!" Marcia


"I bought the book so I would have something to read when we go to NC....everytime I looked at it, it was staring back like go ahead and read me....Just 1 chapter won't hurt....so I did...needless to say I have to buy another book for the trip.....should never let a book stare at you LOL.....Great book read it in 2 days....You did a wonderful job Lisa.....I will never forget that day...." Diane


"Great job with your book, Lisa! I really enjoyed it..thanks!" Linda Please share how Where's Heidi? touched your heart too...

A Late Night Blog...

Photograph used with permission by Tricia LeBeau, thanks Tricia. I spent this evening with my writers' critique group, well, most of them. Due to church meetings, dance class, illness, and being busy women -- not everyone was able to attend but this doesn't stop our merry group of writers to keep writing and critique. It was an interesting evening since only two brought an actual piece of writing, with only one looking for a critique. This is one reason I love our group.

Of course I look forward to the opportunity to bring a new piece of writing with me each month as do my fellow writers but sometimes there are other things we need guidance, suggestions, or input with. Instead of writing this week, I brought news of celebration in light of the April 3, 2013 release of Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey. 

I wanted to shout it from the roof tops -- the excitement and joy in my heart for all that has happened the past two years leading up to Where's Heidi?'s release combined with the feedback from people like you just overwhelms my heart. I'm a blessed woman, this much I know. I'm thankful for my writers' group and their continued support, love, prayers, and friendships.
Before leaving my friend's house to return home I checked my phone and saw a post from Tricia LeBeau, with the photo above she said -- "Hey mom, what ya reading???" --with Lisa M. Buske. I smiled ear to ear and asked Tricia's permission to share this picture with you tonight. It is the posts like this that make my day.

Your comments, whether they be private or posted on Facebook and the blog are such an encouragement to me! Please don't underestimate the power of your words in the lives of those around you. Some tag me in their Facebook conversations about Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey. And then there are the short, sweet, and special quotes like Tricia's with this fabulous photo with it. 

Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! Tomorrow is T.O.P.'s Tuesday - do you have a comment or words to share that might encourage someone else debating if this is a book for them? If so, email them to me at lbuskewriter@aol.com or send me a private message on Facebook. If it's okay to share on the blog, let me know. I can use your name, initials, or anonymous ~ just leave a note saying "private" or "feel free to share".  Can you recommend Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey to others in two sentences or less? We'd love to hear from you...

Ways to help...easy as 1, 2, 3

I have heard from so many people in the past week. Your comments, feedback, and words are an encouragement to me and my entire family. Some continue to say, "If there is anything I can do to help, let me know." This is where I struggle.  

There are things people can do to help but it's difficult to ask without sounding too bold or self-promoting. Yet on the other hand, if I don't self-promote and share ways you can help me, then my books won't reach as many people as they can.

So today I share ways you can help me - would you share Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey and When the Waves Subside: There is Hope with your circle of family, friends, colleagues, and people? I appreciate your consideration of this.

Can you answer "yes" to any of the below questions?
*Have you read Where's Heidi? and/or When the Waves Subside?
*If you said yes - was there a Bible verse that stood out to you?
*Did you read a section and say, "Oh my gosh, I need to share this with ___"?
*Did you find yourself making notes in the sideline?
*Did you pray for the first time in years because of something you read?
*Was there a part of the book that touched you so deeply tears formed in your eyes?
*When you finished, did you have a renewed hope? Or maybe hope for the first time?

If you answered yes to any of the above questions - would you consider writing a review, tagging, posting, sharing, and recommending my book to your friends? 

Please know this isn't an attempt to make a million dollars because anyone who is familiar with the publishing world knows there are less than 5% of authors who make a living off their writing. 

Trust me, my hope and prayer is to share hope, healing, and the journey I traveled with others in hopes they can experience the same peace and joy. 

My reach is minimal but with the help of all of you - we could touch lives of people across the the world when we work together. Here are a few ways you can help. Amazon There are a couple ways to 
utilize Amazon to share 
Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey

1) Write a review on the Amazon website - I've read this is one of the BEST ways to promote a book - my goal 15 reviews by 4/30

2) Share the "Where's Heidi?" Amazon link with your friends and family. Click on the Amazon photo above for a direct link. Good Reads Ways to share Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey with your goodreads friends: (click on photo for link)

1) Post a review on goodreads

2) Add my book to your shelf: as reading, read, or going to read

3) Like my author/book page Your Blog Ways to introduce YOUR readers and followers to a new author and book:

1) Review Where's Heidi? One 
Sister's Journey on your blog

2) Mention the book in your blog posts

3) Include direct links to the 
author's blog and Amazon

4) Include how the book 
touched you personally Social Media Ways to use Social Media to introduce others to Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey and other great 
books/authors you know:

1) Twitter: Tweet about the book as you are reading it or when you are finished, share the author's link with a message

2) Facebook: Post comments, quotes, photos, and links of the book/author randomly to your friends and family. Be sure to share why/how the book touched you personally

3) LinkedIn: Mention the book/author when posting a new message

4) Tag the author when posting a comment so he/she can comment to you and your friends - to show we are real people too

5) Post links to Amazon with your recommendation so others know where to find the book for themselves. A special thanks for sharing hope & healing with the people in your circle of life! May God bless you in return.

More than a book...it's a message

Only God could have seen what was coming...
Only God could turn tragedy into triumph...
Only God is strong enough to hold me...

Today, I have the opportunity to travel with my family for a mere five hour car ride to share my story, my sister, and the hope I found through my relationship with Jesus in Lagrangeville, New York. I look forward to our time together in the car as we travel, for the wonderful women we will meet during the luncheon, and the ride home.

I'll bring Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey, When the Waves Subside ~ There is Hope, and a message to all who are there -- it is possible to experience triumph, even after tragedy. Join me in prayer for safe travels, open hearts, & joyful memories too. How has Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey spoke to you?
When all is quiet...what message do you feel in your heart?

Do you Ever Want To Escape?

Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey released last week on the nineteenth anniversary of my only sister's kidnapping. Heidi remains missing today. The first decade following her disappearance I hid from the world, and even from my family at times. It isn't healthy to hide or escape when life gets hard.

Pastor's new message series opened with the verses of James, we are challenged to rejoice in our suffering. Nineteen years ago, this would have made no sense to be and quite possibly it might have driven me farther from the Lord if someone told me, "Sorry your sister is missing but rejoice in this trial, God has something better coming." BUT thankfully, today, I can see the beauty in the midst of our tragedy.

The first draft of Where's Heidi? was written in 2006. Six and a half years later, it is now available on Amazon.com, at the River's End Bookstore (Oswego, NY), at book signings, and when I speak. 

At the start of this book writing journey and even in the final months leading up to the release I had moments of "Run, don't do it. You will be ridiculed. People don't care. You're not special, so who would read your book?" and other negative thoughts. I had choices to make. 

Do I believe the lies uttered and shouted at me by satan or do I lean harder on God? I had a choice - God gave us free will. 

Just like nineteen years ago, I ran to hide when the lies and attacks came at me BUT this time, I ran into the arms of Jesus as I read my Bible for verses to counter each lie tossed at me. I searched for verses to remind me of the hope only found in Jesus. I hid between the covers at night with my audio Bible lulling me to sleep. I choose to serve, share, write, and speak in obedience to God.

I hope you will join me and stop running away and escaping to the dark and often lonely places where no one can find us. Instead, run to the Light and give it all to Him. God loves you! God cares about you! God is waiting to hold you while you cry! God wants to me your Saving Grace? 

Because I am human, I still try to escape when life gets difficult yet instead of locking myself in my room behind closed blinds - I open the blinds, sit on the deck, and absorb all the Son has to offer through prayer, reading my Bible, getting together with other believers, and celebrating each moment God blesses me with.

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God,who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind." James 1:2-6

What drives you to your quiet place of escape?
 
Who do you escape to first - God or your best friend?

Do you have a favorite spot that helps you relax, clear your thoughts, refocus, and maintain a calm sense of living? Escape for quiet time with Jesus, you'll never be the same!

Learning to Fall...No Longer in the Dark

A special thanks to Mary Buske for creating the photo above 
to share the April 3, 2013 book release celebration with you! Have you ever been driving, cleaning the house, doing the dishes, working in the garage, or just enjoying the tunes on the radio when God plays a song "just for you"?

I don't listen to a lot of country but when I heard this song, the journey I started after Heidi disappeared nineteen years ago came to mind. With tears streaming down my cheeks as I drove, I was overwhelmed at how much God loves me. 

Martina McBride's song, "Learning to Fall" reminded me of the darkness and lack of hope I used to live in. I wore a mask so many didn't know I was falling apart on the inside. I saved most of the ugly for those closest to me. Isn't that the way it always works? She sings about "standing on a mountain of rubble that once was a wall". We need to break down the walls as we learn to trust and let people in, more importantly, to trust and let God in.

Pastor started a new series this past Sunday. We will spend the next few weeks learning from the book of James, in the New Testament. Our weekly Bible studies are based of Pastor's Scripture selections and his message from the Sunday prior. Last night as we responded to the discussion questions for this week -- there is a common theme and truth. Regardless of our trials, tribulations, and stress in life - GOD NEVER LEAVES US! God is always there, we just don't recognize it at the time.

Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey is a testament to this lesson. I walked away, turned my back, and hated God for taking my only sister from us. To look back, in spite of my temper-tantrums and false-misdirected anger -- God was always there. James writes and shares to rejoice in our suffering. 

This is a difficult and bizarre concept yet there isn't a day I don't miss my sister or live with loss yet thankfully, I can rejoice in my suffering because I have hope. A hope, God gifted me to share with you.

"Consider it pure joy, 
my brothers and sisters, 
whenever you face trials of many kinds, 
because you know that the testing 
of your faith produces perseverance." 
James 1:2

Do you rejoice in your suffering? Do you believe it's possible?