Lydia Howe's Blog, page 36
July 21, 2015
Writing Quotes
Today seemed like a beautiful day to share some quotes, therefore I decided to do the logical thing and share some quotes on my blog. (I know, crazy, right?)
“One should use common words to say uncommon things.” -Arthur Schopenhauer
“Read a thousand books, and your words will flow like a river.” -Lisa See
“If you show someone something you've written, you give them a sharpened stake, lie down in your coffin, and say, ‘When you’re ready’.” - David Mitchell
“There is something delicious about writing the first words of a story. You never quite know where they'll take you.” - Beatrix Potter
“I know I was writing stories when I was five. I don't know what I did before that. Just loafed, I suppose.” - P.G. Wodehouse
“My most important piece of advice to all you would-be writers: When you write, try to leave out all the parts readers skip.” -Elmore Leonard
“People always ask me if I’m into sports, and I say, “Well, isn’t writing a sport? If you’re doing it right, and you have a deadline, you should be sweating.” - Jarod Kintz
“The beautiful part of writing is that you don't have to get it right the first time, unlike, say, a brain surgeon.” - Robert Conmier
“One should use common words to say uncommon things.” -Arthur Schopenhauer
“Read a thousand books, and your words will flow like a river.” -Lisa See
“If you show someone something you've written, you give them a sharpened stake, lie down in your coffin, and say, ‘When you’re ready’.” - David Mitchell
“There is something delicious about writing the first words of a story. You never quite know where they'll take you.” - Beatrix Potter
“I know I was writing stories when I was five. I don't know what I did before that. Just loafed, I suppose.” - P.G. Wodehouse
“My most important piece of advice to all you would-be writers: When you write, try to leave out all the parts readers skip.” -Elmore Leonard
“People always ask me if I’m into sports, and I say, “Well, isn’t writing a sport? If you’re doing it right, and you have a deadline, you should be sweating.” - Jarod Kintz
“The beautiful part of writing is that you don't have to get it right the first time, unlike, say, a brain surgeon.” - Robert Conmier
July 20, 2015
Hand of Providence - Book Review
Hand of Providence By Mary Beth Brown
Find it on: Amazon Goodreads
Third person Various points of views (from quotes, etc...)Non-fiction 240 pages
About the Book(Backcover blurb)
According to recent opinion polls, Ronald Reagan is the most popular of modern presidents, and yet to most biographers the man is still an enigma. This is because, as Brown explains, no one has ever focused on this great man's faith.
This book explores the life and personality of Ronald Reagan by focusing on his deep-felt Christian beliefs and showing how faith guided him along his distinguished career and led him to his unprecedented success. With the support of Ronald Reagan's own words and writings and first-hand interviews of Ronald Reagan's family, friends, and co-workers, Brown weaves a magnificent story of Reagan's strong devotion to God that will not only inspire Christians to enter public service and allow their faith to motivate all their actions but also help point others to the Cross of Jesus Christ-a cause that was near and dear to President Reagan's heart.
Why I Choose this Book
My mom recommended this book so highly that she gave it to each family member for Christmas last year. How could I not want to read it?
What I Thought
I love history and I found this book to be brimming with a story that was so engaging that it sucked me in and left me wanting to share bits and pieces of the adventure with everyone else. In fact, I read most of it while on a longish car ride and brought my car-mates to laughter many times when I would randomly blurt out stuff like "Did you know Ronald Reagan oldest son was adopted?" or "Did you know Ronald Reagan had a fan write to him when he was an actor and they were pen-pals for the next 51 years and he wrote her 275 letters?" (then of course we had to average out how often he wrote to her) or "Did you know that during his presidency Ronald Reagan stopped going to church after someone tried to assassinate him because he didn't want to put people at church in danger?" or
"Did you know that communists tried to take over Hollywood?" And my list went on and on.
Hand of Providence was not only interesting and engaging, but it was also inspiring. It was encouraging to see how wholly one of the former leaders of our country relied on God and was not remiss in giving Him the glory and honor that is due Him.
Conclusion
Of course Mr. Reagan's life wasn't perfect and the book doesn't portray it as such, but it did make me want to reach for higher levels and strive to become more.
There are a few scenes that might be traumatic to youngish children.
Rating
I'm giving Hand of Providence five stars and I would recommend this book to anyone.
Find it on: Amazon Goodreads
Third person Various points of views (from quotes, etc...)Non-fiction 240 pages
About the Book(Backcover blurb)
According to recent opinion polls, Ronald Reagan is the most popular of modern presidents, and yet to most biographers the man is still an enigma. This is because, as Brown explains, no one has ever focused on this great man's faith.
This book explores the life and personality of Ronald Reagan by focusing on his deep-felt Christian beliefs and showing how faith guided him along his distinguished career and led him to his unprecedented success. With the support of Ronald Reagan's own words and writings and first-hand interviews of Ronald Reagan's family, friends, and co-workers, Brown weaves a magnificent story of Reagan's strong devotion to God that will not only inspire Christians to enter public service and allow their faith to motivate all their actions but also help point others to the Cross of Jesus Christ-a cause that was near and dear to President Reagan's heart.
Why I Choose this Book
My mom recommended this book so highly that she gave it to each family member for Christmas last year. How could I not want to read it?
What I Thought
I love history and I found this book to be brimming with a story that was so engaging that it sucked me in and left me wanting to share bits and pieces of the adventure with everyone else. In fact, I read most of it while on a longish car ride and brought my car-mates to laughter many times when I would randomly blurt out stuff like "Did you know Ronald Reagan oldest son was adopted?" or "Did you know Ronald Reagan had a fan write to him when he was an actor and they were pen-pals for the next 51 years and he wrote her 275 letters?" (then of course we had to average out how often he wrote to her) or "Did you know that during his presidency Ronald Reagan stopped going to church after someone tried to assassinate him because he didn't want to put people at church in danger?" or
"Did you know that communists tried to take over Hollywood?" And my list went on and on.
Hand of Providence was not only interesting and engaging, but it was also inspiring. It was encouraging to see how wholly one of the former leaders of our country relied on God and was not remiss in giving Him the glory and honor that is due Him.
Conclusion
Of course Mr. Reagan's life wasn't perfect and the book doesn't portray it as such, but it did make me want to reach for higher levels and strive to become more.
There are a few scenes that might be traumatic to youngish children.
Rating
I'm giving Hand of Providence five stars and I would recommend this book to anyone.
July 17, 2015
When Life Hands You Lymes #79
Hey everyone! After a great day of work at my non-writing job I'm finally sitting down and getting the 79th segment of my fictional story, When Life Hands You Lymes posted for today. I hope y'all enjoy!
I’m awoken the next morning by Mom as she gives me my morning medicine. “Time to get up, Madalyn.” I yawn and look around. “What time is it?” “Ten a.m. We have company coming. Remember me telling you about the Jennings family spending a couple of days here?” Mom holds out a couple of vitamins and I dutifully swallow them. I feel like such a baby how Mom has to help me with everything and remind me about our company. “Ok. I’m getting up.” We’ve known the Jennings for longer than I can remember. They live in South Carolina though so we don’t get to see them very often. I had remembered that they were coming for a visit, I had just forgotten when the visit was. “Dad, Darrick and I are going to pick them up at the airport. Would you like to come along with us? We’re leaving early so we can check up on how everything is going.” I rub my forehead while thinking of the previous visits we’ve had with our friends. Emily Jennings and I don’t do a ton throughout the year, but whenever we visit we have a total blast. Right now though I’m feeling anything but social. “I’ll wait here.” “Alright. Do you need me to get you anything else before I go?” Mom is halfway across the room and I know she’s in a hurry. “I’m fine.” I drag myself out of bed and look out the window that overlooks our driveway. About five minutes later I see the family drive away. “I hate it, I hate it, I hate it!” I pound my fist against the wall. “Oh I hate it!” I scream the words and then bury my face in my hands. At lunch time it takes all of my willpower to hold back my urge to hyperventilate as I go downstairs and pull on a cheerful face as I greet our guests. After hugs and pleasantries are exchanged I fall to the back of the group as they head into the dinning room. At the last minute a panicky feeling overwhelms me and I slip away from the group and run upstairs where I slam my door shut and then lean against it, my breath coming in gasps. “People, so many people.” I gasp out as I take in short little breaths and let them out in puffs. I can feel my heart racing and it feels like I just barely missed some grand calamity. Are you going to eat lunch with us? Mom’s text makes me close my eyes and shake my head, even though she can’t see me. No, I’m sorry. I’m not feeling up to it. I am hungry though. Do you think Darrick or Carter could bring me something to eat? Ugg. I am such a sissy. The thought of going down and facing people though makes me feel all shaky. Ok. Mom’s short reply makes me hit my head against the door. I realize she has company and texting isn’t exactly a polite thing to do, but I’m feeling so utterly lonely and I don’t feel like cutting off all communication with the human race just yet, even though I don’t feel like seeing them in person.
How’s it going? I send a quick text to Julia and then head into my music studio. Weariness overtakes me again though, so instead of practicing I lie down on the couch to rest. I pull up Jason’s number Doing anything fun this Saturday? I send the text then scroll through my contacts, wondering if there’s anyone else I can try and make contact with. I don’t have very many people I contact on a regular basis, so I don’t come up with many. A simple Hey is sent to Katie, if she wants to text she’ll ask what’s up. I was just admiring my curtains again. Thank you for making them, is what I send to Abbie. Then I set my phone on my stomach and wait. And wait. My phone is silent. My door is silent. My life is silent. I can’t hold back the feeling of being cut off from the rest of the world.
I’m awoken the next morning by Mom as she gives me my morning medicine. “Time to get up, Madalyn.” I yawn and look around. “What time is it?” “Ten a.m. We have company coming. Remember me telling you about the Jennings family spending a couple of days here?” Mom holds out a couple of vitamins and I dutifully swallow them. I feel like such a baby how Mom has to help me with everything and remind me about our company. “Ok. I’m getting up.” We’ve known the Jennings for longer than I can remember. They live in South Carolina though so we don’t get to see them very often. I had remembered that they were coming for a visit, I had just forgotten when the visit was. “Dad, Darrick and I are going to pick them up at the airport. Would you like to come along with us? We’re leaving early so we can check up on how everything is going.” I rub my forehead while thinking of the previous visits we’ve had with our friends. Emily Jennings and I don’t do a ton throughout the year, but whenever we visit we have a total blast. Right now though I’m feeling anything but social. “I’ll wait here.” “Alright. Do you need me to get you anything else before I go?” Mom is halfway across the room and I know she’s in a hurry. “I’m fine.” I drag myself out of bed and look out the window that overlooks our driveway. About five minutes later I see the family drive away. “I hate it, I hate it, I hate it!” I pound my fist against the wall. “Oh I hate it!” I scream the words and then bury my face in my hands. At lunch time it takes all of my willpower to hold back my urge to hyperventilate as I go downstairs and pull on a cheerful face as I greet our guests. After hugs and pleasantries are exchanged I fall to the back of the group as they head into the dinning room. At the last minute a panicky feeling overwhelms me and I slip away from the group and run upstairs where I slam my door shut and then lean against it, my breath coming in gasps. “People, so many people.” I gasp out as I take in short little breaths and let them out in puffs. I can feel my heart racing and it feels like I just barely missed some grand calamity. Are you going to eat lunch with us? Mom’s text makes me close my eyes and shake my head, even though she can’t see me. No, I’m sorry. I’m not feeling up to it. I am hungry though. Do you think Darrick or Carter could bring me something to eat? Ugg. I am such a sissy. The thought of going down and facing people though makes me feel all shaky. Ok. Mom’s short reply makes me hit my head against the door. I realize she has company and texting isn’t exactly a polite thing to do, but I’m feeling so utterly lonely and I don’t feel like cutting off all communication with the human race just yet, even though I don’t feel like seeing them in person.
How’s it going? I send a quick text to Julia and then head into my music studio. Weariness overtakes me again though, so instead of practicing I lie down on the couch to rest. I pull up Jason’s number Doing anything fun this Saturday? I send the text then scroll through my contacts, wondering if there’s anyone else I can try and make contact with. I don’t have very many people I contact on a regular basis, so I don’t come up with many. A simple Hey is sent to Katie, if she wants to text she’ll ask what’s up. I was just admiring my curtains again. Thank you for making them, is what I send to Abbie. Then I set my phone on my stomach and wait. And wait. My phone is silent. My door is silent. My life is silent. I can’t hold back the feeling of being cut off from the rest of the world.
July 16, 2015
500 Things I'm Thankful For
One of my birthday challenges was to write a list of 500 things that I'm thankful for, and I decided today was a good day to focus on thankfulness, so I wrote my list. And, although I don't expect anyone to read it all, I thought I'd share it on here. The list is in totally random order, written down as the "thankful thought" popped into my head.
This list only took me about 80 minutes to write and it reminded me again of how very much I have to be thankful for! What are some things that you're thankful for today?
I’m thankful for my familyI’m thankful that I get to live near my cousinsI’m thankful that we have a family businessI’m thankful that we have a family ministryI’m thankful that I get to live close to my best friendI’m thankful that our family eats togetherI’m thankful for my adopted parentsI’m thankful for fun texting conversations with my adopted parentsI’m thankful for the friends I get to work withI’m thankful for living out in the countryI’m thankful for living on a gravel roadI’m thankful for getting to cut grassI’m thankful for musicI’m thankful for noise canceling head-sets for when I’m cutting grassI’m thankful for my swing set I’m thankful for my iPhone I’m thankful for my officeI’m thankful that I get to sleep on the floorI’m thankful for fuzzy blanketsI’m thankful for my stuffed animalsI’m thankful for my library I’m thankful for the Bible I’m thankful for freedom to read the BibleI’m Thankful for prayerI’m thankful for the times I get to spend each day reading the Bible and prayingI’m thankful for Jesus dying to save us I’m thankful that God loves uI’m thankful for forgiveness I’m thankful for hopeI’m thankful for faithI’m thankful for graceI’m thankful for loveI’m thankful for wordsI’m thankful for mapsI’m thankful for travelingI’m thankful for bloggingI’m thankful for listsI’m thankful for long conversationsI’m thankful for laughterI’m thankful for friends getting marriedI’m thankful for free ebooksI’m thankful for the ability to readI’m thankful I was homeschooledI’m thankful that I grew up knowing loveI’m thankful I can change the lives around meI’m thankful for good examplesI’m thankful that I can learn and growI’m thankful for encouragement I’m thankful for my dogI’m thankful for my catI’m thankful for my ratI’m thankful for my rabbitI’m thankful for the blankets I’ve gotten to make this yearI’m thankful for my writing groupI’m thankful for crafts I can do with my hands I’m thankful for understanding family members I’m thankful for sleepI’m thankful for vitamins I’m thankful for healthy foodI’m thankful for fruitI’m thankful for cucumbersI’m thankful for the beautiful colors on the walls in my officeI’m thankful that I get to have so many windowsI’m thankful for bright sunlightI’m thankful for windI’m thankful for summerI’m thankful for WinterI’m thankful for autumn I’m thankful for spring I’m thankful for changing seasons I’m thankful I live in a place with all four seasons I’m thankful that I get to go so many places and see seasons in different areasI’m thankful for sweaters I’m thankful for cute socksI’m thankful for nice clothes I’m thankful for freedomI’m thankful for lifeI’m thankful for people who have fought to keep us freeI’m thankful for mercyI’m thankful for historyI’m thankful we can learn from historyI’m thankful for school I’m thankful for EnglishI’m thankful for being taught to love readingI’m thankful I can read so muchI’m thankful for libraries I’m thankful for bookshelvesI’m thankful for old booksI’m Thankful for memories I’m thankful for books I bought in EuropeI’m Thankful for my coffee maker I’m thankful for generous giftsI’m thankful for echoesI’m thankful for my friends that I have scattered all over the worldI’m thankful for flowers I’m thankful for bluebells and how much Aubrey and I used to love them I’m thankful for lilacs and how nice they smellI’m thankful for daffodils and how they are a sign of spring hereI’m thankful for dandelions and how hardy they are I’m thankful for dreams I’m thankful that my family encourages me to run toward my dreams I’m thankful for getting to sign books I’m thankful that I have books published I’m thankful for the people who read my books I’m thankful for everyone who supports me with my writing I’m thankful for inspiration I’m thankful for being ok with setting aside writing when I need to I’m thankful for my writing group I’m thankful that my writing group stayed open I’m thankful for the people who care enough about young writers to help them I’m thankful for all the people who read my blog I’m thankful that I’m allowed to and able to blog I’m thankful that I learned how to type I’m thankful for the skills of being able to write I’m thankful for all the authors who inspired me when I was a kid I’m thankful for peaceful nights I’m thankful for when everything is under control I’m thankful for stars I’m thankful for people who study nature so we can learn more about it I’m thankful that God created everything with such beauty that even after the fall it’s still so nice I’m thankful for my hair and how easy it is to take care of I’m thankful for my teeth and my parents paying for braces I’m thankful for chatting with Hosanna I’m thankful for my glasses I’m thankful for Clara I’m thankful that Clara lives so close to us so we get to see her so much I’m thankful for health I’m thankful that I’m learning to be happy all the time I’m thankful for how helpful my kitchen crew is I’m thankful for our neighbors I’m thankful for the red Jeep I’m thankful for answered prayers I’m thankful for birds singing I’m thankful for the colorful butterflies I’m thankful that I can see beauty I’m thankful that I can hear I’m thankful for watching fireflies I’m thankful for pictures I’m thankful for being able to buy pictures for not too much when they are on sale I’m thankful for the ability to own so many books I’m thankful for printing presses and that they were invented I’m thankful for rocks and how pretty they are I’m thankful for caving I’m thankful for hope-filled Bible verses I’m thankful for catchy tunes I’m thankful for shelter I’m thankful for our barns I’m thankful for our farm animals I’m thankful I got to raise goats when I was younger I’m thankful I don’t raise goats any more I’m thankful for numbers I’m thankful for Aunt Becca helping me with school years ago I’m thankful for BJU I’m thankful I was able to travel through Europe I’m thankful for all the books I read that took place in Europe I’m thankful to have known people who fought in WW2 I’m thankful for us winning the war I’m thankful for everyone who sacrificed so we could win the war I’m thankful for living in the USA I’m thankful for studying American History I’m thankful that I was taught the importance of history I’m thankful that I can read historical fiction I’m thankful for helpful parents I’m thankful for Johanna being so good at writing letters I’m thankful for Mariah and all she does to keep the house running smoothly I’m thankful for Moses and his sweet attitude I’m thankful for how helpful Moses is I’m thankful for David and what a great example he is I’m thankful for Logan and how he is such a servant I’m thankful for Helena and her crazy good business skills I’m thankful for Helena and how she and I grew up being close I’m thankful for Mom and her organizational skills I’m thankful for Dad and his generosity I’m thankful that my family is giving I’m thankful for pizza I’m thankful for yummy food I’m thankful for people who have gardens and share their food I’m thankful for not having a garden this year I’m thankful I was able to go to Peru twice I’m thankful I was able to go to Ghana I’m thankful I was able to go Asia I’m thankful I was able to go to Austria I’m Thankful I was able to go to France I’m thankful I was able to go to Switzerland I’m thankful I was able to sit under the Swiss Alps and read a book I’m Thankful for the books I read that took place in Switzerland I’m Thankful that I could go to England I’m thankful I could see where my dad used to stay over there I’m thankful for the friends we have in England I’m Thankful for going to Holland I’m thankful for the books I got to read while in Holland that took place in Holland I’m thankful for Brother Andrew I’m thankful for Corrie ten Boom I’m thankful we got to visit The Hiding Place I’m thankful we got to visit Anne Franks house I’m thankful for the friends we have in Holland I’m thankful we got to go to Germany I’m thankful for the castles we visited in Germany I’m thankful we got to visit Belgium I’m thankful for the yummy food we got to eat in Belgium I’m thankful for traveling with my family I’m thankful that I got to visit Aruba this year with my family I’m thankful for future traveling plans I’m thankful that I’ve gotten to visit about half of the states I’m thankful for people who have artistic abilities I’m thankful for musicians I’m thankful that Aubrey plays the cello I’m thankful that I have friends who can draw I’m thankful for people who are kind I’m thankful for my ability to be thankful I’m thankful for pickles I’m thankful for skunks I’m thankful for the ocean I’m thankful for mountains I’m thankful for family vacation s I’m thankful for every day life I’m thankful for children I’m thankful when people are thankful I’m thankful for my computer I’m thankful for Howe Insurance Services I’m thankful that we have a retreat going on right now I’m thankful that I’m 22 I’m thankful that I have a bright hope and future I’m thankful for stacking Russian dolls I’m thankful for my shelf of special things I’m thankful that I’m not sick for this retreat I’m thankful for gmail I’m thankful for medicine I’m thankful for water I’m thankful that I really like to drink water I’m thankful for berries I’m thankful for rice I’m thankful for quinoa I’m thankful for little things that have special meanings to me I’m thankful for hugs I’m thankful for little cousins I’m thankful for driving with the windows down I’m thankful for brisk winds I’m thankful for descriptive words I’m thankful for stickers I’m thankful for photo albums I’m thankful for cracking whips I’m thankful for the Creation museum I’m thankful for everyone who works for AiG I’m thankful for the people to are helping me learn to defend my faith I’m thankful for true science I’m thankful for my cool old-looking trunk I’m thankful I have a closet I’m thankful for my couch I’m thankful I get to write on my chair I’m thankful for the ability to go swimming I’m thankful I’ve gotten to sleep in caves I’m thankful that I can travel by plane I’m thankful for blue skies I’m thankful for bare feet I’m thankful for my filing cabinets I’m thankful that I can learn to extend mercy I’m thankful for my grandparents I’m thankful for my aunts I’m thankful for my uncles I’m thankful for my nieces I’m thankful for my nephews I’m thankful that today is my sister’s birthday I’m thankful for cute coffee mugs I’m thankful for directions I’m thankful for fans to cool down the house I’m thankful for shade I’m thankful for the beauty of hay fields I’m thankful for horses I’m thankful I get to ride my adopted dad’s horse I’m thankful for olives I’m thankful for sweet food I’m thankful for honey I’m thankful for trees I’m thankful that I don’t live above the tree line I’m thankful for exploring woods I’m thankful for all the fun I and growing up and exploring with David and Helena I’m thankful that Sarah can be a wife and mom I’m thankful that Sarah can write poems I’m thankful that we have so many wild flowers I’m thankful that I can read on my phone I’m thankful for learning and growing I’m thankful to be who I am I’m thankful to find such joy in typing I’m thankful for being able to share my life with others I’m thankful for the three books of mine that are out there, ready to entertain children I’m thankful for learning to trust I’m thankful that I am finished with the first draft of When Life Hands You Lymes I’m thankful for the cool title I thought up for that ^ book I’m thankful for friends who have helped me with my writing I’m thankful I was able to take a break from writing when I needed to I’m thankful that I’ve been able to help my adopted parents with making DVDs I’m thankful that there is Alaska and that maybe one day I’ll visit I’m thankful for Jesus saving my soul I’m thankful that I can live for Jesus now I’m thankful that I’m not called to be perfect on my own I’m thankful that Jesus is forgiving I’m thankful that I can learn and grow and become closer to who Jesus wants me to be I’m thankful for cool ideas I’m thankful for my ability to walk I’m thankful for seat belts I’m thankful for safety I’m thankful for things going smoothly I’m thankful I can take long walks I’m thankful for hills I’m thankful for living in a place with lots of woods I’m thankful for hedgehogs I’m thankful for goats milk for babies who need it I’m thankful for plenty of water I’m thankful for systems that work I’m thankful for fast hands I’m thankful for good lawn mowers I’m thankful for folding towels I’m thankful for spell check I’m thankful for notebooks I’m thankful for cool pens I’m thankful for beautiful paintings I’m thankful for talent I’m thankful that we are different from each other I’m thankful for my future I’m thankful for what God has done in my life I’m thankful for what God will do in my life I’m thankful for a nice kitchen I’m thankful for internet I’m thankful for connecting with people I’m thankful for John Maxwell I’m thankful for people who are changing the world for the better I’m thankful for positive people I’m thankful for juice I’m thankful for kids who are learning how to read I’m thankful that I’m not in pain all the time I’m thankful for whoever invented the computer I’m thankful for cute pictures of kids I’m thankful for funny things I’m thankful for help with being me I’m thankful that I’m unique I’m thankful that I lived in a barn for a while I’m thankful that I get to sleep on the floor I’m thankful for my blanket that I travel everywhere with I’m thankful for book reports I’m thankful for the books I get free in exchange for reviews I’m thankful that we can express thoughts and ideas with words I’m thankful for fires I’m thankful for the way nature works I’m thankful for clean water to drink I’m thankful that we don’t have to haul our water I’m thankful that I can take time to relax each day I’m thankful for the life that I live I’m thankful that I got to help my little siblings and cousins learn about Gods amazing creation I’m thankful that God created the world and put me in it I’m thankful for outer space I’m thankful for plants I’m thankful for all the different kinds of animals there are I’m thankful for Jonathan Park I’m thankful for the idea of audio adventures I’m thankful that I could turn one of my books into an audio book I’m thankful for the ability to talk I’m thankful for my vocal cords I’m thankful for the Gaither Vocal Band I’m thankful for uplifting songs I’m thankful for our church I’m thankful for our pastor I’m thankful for people who really want to spread God’s truth and love I’m thankful for N and getting to work with her I’m thankful that N is getting married and that she’ll be a beautiful bride I’m thankful that Alexa is getting married I’m thankful that Helena can be such a great friend to so many people I’m thankful for gum I’m thankful for how yummy different flavors are I’m thankful for whatever my future is going to be and knowing that God holds it I’m thankful for knowing about love languages I’m thankful that I know about personality tests I’m thankful for Inca Cola I’m thankful for Marta and that she could live with our family for a while I’m thankful for Aubrey and all the time she’s stayed with our family I’m thankful that I got to have a tipi for a little while I’m thankful for all the story ideas I have I’m thankful that I’m creative I’m thankful for my books I’m hoping to work on soon I’m thankful that God loves me and that I can learn to love, too I’m thankful for pets I’m thankful for the ability to go shopping I’m thankful for the book Love Does I’m thankful for Bob Goff I’m thankful for learning to see life from different perspectives I’m thankful that I can expand my vocabulary by reading a lot I’m thankful for devices that make reading easy I’m thankful for everyone who writes good books I’m thankful for writing rules that I’ve learned I’m thankful for donuts I’m thankful that I got to go to Nashville I’m thankful that I can have a unique room I’m thankful that I’m a skunk I’m thankful for things that bring joy to people I’m thankful that my middle name is Joy I’m thankful that I like names so much I’m Thankful for the Name Game I’m thankful for the list of names I’ve made over the years that I can use for characters I’m thankful for name books I’m thankful for the Go Teen Writer Book I’m thankful for challenges I’m thankful for goals I’m thankful that I’m a goal oriented person I’m thankful that I have a dad who is, too I’m thankful for the Golden Nuggets I’m thankful that I was placed in the perfect family to help me learn and grow I’m thankful for my iPhone cord I’m thankful for electricity I’m thankful for my Grandma Liston loving God I’m thankful for the legacy that I had passed down to me I’m thankful for how close I am with so much of my cousins/aunts/uncles/grandparents I’m thankful that I get to go visit my grandparents soon I’m thankful for my Dad’s job I’m thankful for my nieces and nephews living within a days travel I’m thankful for cool hats I’m thankful for quotes I’m thankful for Zig Ziglar I’m Thankful for A. L. Williams I’m thankful for Doug Carter I’m thankful for Ken Ham I’m thankful for Steve Ham I’m thankful for Cathrine Farnes I’m thankful for Steve Golden I’m thankful for Charlie Wetzle I’m thankful for Bruce Wilkinson I’m thankful for Franklin Graham I’m thankful for the people I grew up going to church with I’m thankful for Su and all she does to help here I’m thankful for people who change and become more happy and wonderful I’m thankful for the blogs that I follow I’m thankful for people who I get inspired by I’m thankful for everyone who I have been able to inspire I’m thankful for everyone who is taking an active part in my life I’m thankful for Annie and how sweet she is I’m Thankful for Abbie and how she makes me laugh I’m thankful for Zebb and how he is quick and helpful I’m thankful for Zeke and how he’s funny and helpful I’m thankful for Zion and how he’s such a good reader I’m thankful for Uncle Zane and all he does to help out I’m thankful for Aunt Denise and what she does I’m thankful for Dakota and his willingness to step in and help out I’m Thankful for helpful people in general I’m thankful for fabric I’m thankful for my Audio Adrenaline I’m Thankful for Casting Crowns I’m thankful for Newsboys I’m thankful for Francesca Battistelli I’m thankful for Chris Tomlin I’m thankful for being able to delegate I’m thankful for Brandon Heath I’m Thankful for Hillsong I’m thankful for Buddy Davis music I’m thankful for my song that my adopted dad wrote for me I’m thankful that I was just able to spend a week at the Creation Museum I’m thankful for all the behind the scenes things I get to do I’m thankful for all the amazing experiences I’ve gotten to have I’m thankful that my life is my life and I get to live it I’m thankful for the ability to think and reason I’m thankful that God loved me enough to send His Son to die for me I’m thankful that God offers His love to everyone I’m thankful that I can learn to love people, too I’m thankful that I don’t freak out all the time I’m thankful that I can run I’m thankful for holidays I’m thankful for all the memories that surround different times of the year I’m thankful for storms when no one gets hurt I’m thankful for late night reading times I’m thankful for editing in the middle of the night when everything else is quiet I’m thankful for when I’m discouraged and I see light at the end of the tunnel I’m thankful for what I can accomplish I’m thankful that my identity comes from Jesus, not from what I can do I’m thankful for camping I’m thankful for being outside I’m thankful for campfires I’m thankful for cooking outside I’m thankful that I am a country girl I’m thankful for all my parents did so they could raise their kids out in the country I’m thankful for how many siblings I have I’m thankful that I wasn’t the youngest I’m thankful that I get to make special memories with my siblings I’m thankful for road trips I’m thankful that we got to go to Canada when I was little I’m thankful I could be a flower girl in my sister’s wedding I’m thankful I could be the maid of honor in my brother’s wedding I’m thankful I could make memories at the other weddings I’ve gone to I’m thankful for the beauty all around me that I get to drink in I’m thankful for apple cider I’m thankful for egg nog I’m thankful for hot tea I’m thankful for green beans and cheese I’m thankful for our golf cart that makes work easier I’m thankful for birthday celebrations I’m thankful that we were taught that sometimes waiting makes something better I’m thankful for cousin-related memories I’m thankful for being able to look and see the beauty in objects I’m thankful for loving people I’m thankful that I can memories Bible verses I’m thankful for God’s never ending faithfulness I’m thankful for my family’s ambitions I’m thankful for thankfulness
This list only took me about 80 minutes to write and it reminded me again of how very much I have to be thankful for! What are some things that you're thankful for today?
I’m thankful for my familyI’m thankful that I get to live near my cousinsI’m thankful that we have a family businessI’m thankful that we have a family ministryI’m thankful that I get to live close to my best friendI’m thankful that our family eats togetherI’m thankful for my adopted parentsI’m thankful for fun texting conversations with my adopted parentsI’m thankful for the friends I get to work withI’m thankful for living out in the countryI’m thankful for living on a gravel roadI’m thankful for getting to cut grassI’m thankful for musicI’m thankful for noise canceling head-sets for when I’m cutting grassI’m thankful for my swing set I’m thankful for my iPhone I’m thankful for my officeI’m thankful that I get to sleep on the floorI’m thankful for fuzzy blanketsI’m thankful for my stuffed animalsI’m thankful for my library I’m thankful for the Bible I’m thankful for freedom to read the BibleI’m Thankful for prayerI’m thankful for the times I get to spend each day reading the Bible and prayingI’m thankful for Jesus dying to save us I’m thankful that God loves uI’m thankful for forgiveness I’m thankful for hopeI’m thankful for faithI’m thankful for graceI’m thankful for loveI’m thankful for wordsI’m thankful for mapsI’m thankful for travelingI’m thankful for bloggingI’m thankful for listsI’m thankful for long conversationsI’m thankful for laughterI’m thankful for friends getting marriedI’m thankful for free ebooksI’m thankful for the ability to readI’m thankful I was homeschooledI’m thankful that I grew up knowing loveI’m thankful I can change the lives around meI’m thankful for good examplesI’m thankful that I can learn and growI’m thankful for encouragement I’m thankful for my dogI’m thankful for my catI’m thankful for my ratI’m thankful for my rabbitI’m thankful for the blankets I’ve gotten to make this yearI’m thankful for my writing groupI’m thankful for crafts I can do with my hands I’m thankful for understanding family members I’m thankful for sleepI’m thankful for vitamins I’m thankful for healthy foodI’m thankful for fruitI’m thankful for cucumbersI’m thankful for the beautiful colors on the walls in my officeI’m thankful that I get to have so many windowsI’m thankful for bright sunlightI’m thankful for windI’m thankful for summerI’m thankful for WinterI’m thankful for autumn I’m thankful for spring I’m thankful for changing seasons I’m thankful I live in a place with all four seasons I’m thankful that I get to go so many places and see seasons in different areasI’m thankful for sweaters I’m thankful for cute socksI’m thankful for nice clothes I’m thankful for freedomI’m thankful for lifeI’m thankful for people who have fought to keep us freeI’m thankful for mercyI’m thankful for historyI’m thankful we can learn from historyI’m thankful for school I’m thankful for EnglishI’m thankful for being taught to love readingI’m thankful I can read so muchI’m thankful for libraries I’m thankful for bookshelvesI’m thankful for old booksI’m Thankful for memories I’m thankful for books I bought in EuropeI’m Thankful for my coffee maker I’m thankful for generous giftsI’m thankful for echoesI’m thankful for my friends that I have scattered all over the worldI’m thankful for flowers I’m thankful for bluebells and how much Aubrey and I used to love them I’m thankful for lilacs and how nice they smellI’m thankful for daffodils and how they are a sign of spring hereI’m thankful for dandelions and how hardy they are I’m thankful for dreams I’m thankful that my family encourages me to run toward my dreams I’m thankful for getting to sign books I’m thankful that I have books published I’m thankful for the people who read my books I’m thankful for everyone who supports me with my writing I’m thankful for inspiration I’m thankful for being ok with setting aside writing when I need to I’m thankful for my writing group I’m thankful that my writing group stayed open I’m thankful for the people who care enough about young writers to help them I’m thankful for all the people who read my blog I’m thankful that I’m allowed to and able to blog I’m thankful that I learned how to type I’m thankful for the skills of being able to write I’m thankful for all the authors who inspired me when I was a kid I’m thankful for peaceful nights I’m thankful for when everything is under control I’m thankful for stars I’m thankful for people who study nature so we can learn more about it I’m thankful that God created everything with such beauty that even after the fall it’s still so nice I’m thankful for my hair and how easy it is to take care of I’m thankful for my teeth and my parents paying for braces I’m thankful for chatting with Hosanna I’m thankful for my glasses I’m thankful for Clara I’m thankful that Clara lives so close to us so we get to see her so much I’m thankful for health I’m thankful that I’m learning to be happy all the time I’m thankful for how helpful my kitchen crew is I’m thankful for our neighbors I’m thankful for the red Jeep I’m thankful for answered prayers I’m thankful for birds singing I’m thankful for the colorful butterflies I’m thankful that I can see beauty I’m thankful that I can hear I’m thankful for watching fireflies I’m thankful for pictures I’m thankful for being able to buy pictures for not too much when they are on sale I’m thankful for the ability to own so many books I’m thankful for printing presses and that they were invented I’m thankful for rocks and how pretty they are I’m thankful for caving I’m thankful for hope-filled Bible verses I’m thankful for catchy tunes I’m thankful for shelter I’m thankful for our barns I’m thankful for our farm animals I’m thankful I got to raise goats when I was younger I’m thankful I don’t raise goats any more I’m thankful for numbers I’m thankful for Aunt Becca helping me with school years ago I’m thankful for BJU I’m thankful I was able to travel through Europe I’m thankful for all the books I read that took place in Europe I’m thankful to have known people who fought in WW2 I’m thankful for us winning the war I’m thankful for everyone who sacrificed so we could win the war I’m thankful for living in the USA I’m thankful for studying American History I’m thankful that I was taught the importance of history I’m thankful that I can read historical fiction I’m thankful for helpful parents I’m thankful for Johanna being so good at writing letters I’m thankful for Mariah and all she does to keep the house running smoothly I’m thankful for Moses and his sweet attitude I’m thankful for how helpful Moses is I’m thankful for David and what a great example he is I’m thankful for Logan and how he is such a servant I’m thankful for Helena and her crazy good business skills I’m thankful for Helena and how she and I grew up being close I’m thankful for Mom and her organizational skills I’m thankful for Dad and his generosity I’m thankful that my family is giving I’m thankful for pizza I’m thankful for yummy food I’m thankful for people who have gardens and share their food I’m thankful for not having a garden this year I’m thankful I was able to go to Peru twice I’m thankful I was able to go to Ghana I’m thankful I was able to go Asia I’m thankful I was able to go to Austria I’m Thankful I was able to go to France I’m thankful I was able to go to Switzerland I’m thankful I was able to sit under the Swiss Alps and read a book I’m Thankful for the books I read that took place in Switzerland I’m Thankful that I could go to England I’m thankful I could see where my dad used to stay over there I’m thankful for the friends we have in England I’m Thankful for going to Holland I’m thankful for the books I got to read while in Holland that took place in Holland I’m thankful for Brother Andrew I’m thankful for Corrie ten Boom I’m thankful we got to visit The Hiding Place I’m thankful we got to visit Anne Franks house I’m thankful for the friends we have in Holland I’m thankful we got to go to Germany I’m thankful for the castles we visited in Germany I’m thankful we got to visit Belgium I’m thankful for the yummy food we got to eat in Belgium I’m thankful for traveling with my family I’m thankful that I got to visit Aruba this year with my family I’m thankful for future traveling plans I’m thankful that I’ve gotten to visit about half of the states I’m thankful for people who have artistic abilities I’m thankful for musicians I’m thankful that Aubrey plays the cello I’m thankful that I have friends who can draw I’m thankful for people who are kind I’m thankful for my ability to be thankful I’m thankful for pickles I’m thankful for skunks I’m thankful for the ocean I’m thankful for mountains I’m thankful for family vacation s I’m thankful for every day life I’m thankful for children I’m thankful when people are thankful I’m thankful for my computer I’m thankful for Howe Insurance Services I’m thankful that we have a retreat going on right now I’m thankful that I’m 22 I’m thankful that I have a bright hope and future I’m thankful for stacking Russian dolls I’m thankful for my shelf of special things I’m thankful that I’m not sick for this retreat I’m thankful for gmail I’m thankful for medicine I’m thankful for water I’m thankful that I really like to drink water I’m thankful for berries I’m thankful for rice I’m thankful for quinoa I’m thankful for little things that have special meanings to me I’m thankful for hugs I’m thankful for little cousins I’m thankful for driving with the windows down I’m thankful for brisk winds I’m thankful for descriptive words I’m thankful for stickers I’m thankful for photo albums I’m thankful for cracking whips I’m thankful for the Creation museum I’m thankful for everyone who works for AiG I’m thankful for the people to are helping me learn to defend my faith I’m thankful for true science I’m thankful for my cool old-looking trunk I’m thankful I have a closet I’m thankful for my couch I’m thankful I get to write on my chair I’m thankful for the ability to go swimming I’m thankful I’ve gotten to sleep in caves I’m thankful that I can travel by plane I’m thankful for blue skies I’m thankful for bare feet I’m thankful for my filing cabinets I’m thankful that I can learn to extend mercy I’m thankful for my grandparents I’m thankful for my aunts I’m thankful for my uncles I’m thankful for my nieces I’m thankful for my nephews I’m thankful that today is my sister’s birthday I’m thankful for cute coffee mugs I’m thankful for directions I’m thankful for fans to cool down the house I’m thankful for shade I’m thankful for the beauty of hay fields I’m thankful for horses I’m thankful I get to ride my adopted dad’s horse I’m thankful for olives I’m thankful for sweet food I’m thankful for honey I’m thankful for trees I’m thankful that I don’t live above the tree line I’m thankful for exploring woods I’m thankful for all the fun I and growing up and exploring with David and Helena I’m thankful that Sarah can be a wife and mom I’m thankful that Sarah can write poems I’m thankful that we have so many wild flowers I’m thankful that I can read on my phone I’m thankful for learning and growing I’m thankful to be who I am I’m thankful to find such joy in typing I’m thankful for being able to share my life with others I’m thankful for the three books of mine that are out there, ready to entertain children I’m thankful for learning to trust I’m thankful that I am finished with the first draft of When Life Hands You Lymes I’m thankful for the cool title I thought up for that ^ book I’m thankful for friends who have helped me with my writing I’m thankful I was able to take a break from writing when I needed to I’m thankful that I’ve been able to help my adopted parents with making DVDs I’m thankful that there is Alaska and that maybe one day I’ll visit I’m thankful for Jesus saving my soul I’m thankful that I can live for Jesus now I’m thankful that I’m not called to be perfect on my own I’m thankful that Jesus is forgiving I’m thankful that I can learn and grow and become closer to who Jesus wants me to be I’m thankful for cool ideas I’m thankful for my ability to walk I’m thankful for seat belts I’m thankful for safety I’m thankful for things going smoothly I’m thankful I can take long walks I’m thankful for hills I’m thankful for living in a place with lots of woods I’m thankful for hedgehogs I’m thankful for goats milk for babies who need it I’m thankful for plenty of water I’m thankful for systems that work I’m thankful for fast hands I’m thankful for good lawn mowers I’m thankful for folding towels I’m thankful for spell check I’m thankful for notebooks I’m thankful for cool pens I’m thankful for beautiful paintings I’m thankful for talent I’m thankful that we are different from each other I’m thankful for my future I’m thankful for what God has done in my life I’m thankful for what God will do in my life I’m thankful for a nice kitchen I’m thankful for internet I’m thankful for connecting with people I’m thankful for John Maxwell I’m thankful for people who are changing the world for the better I’m thankful for positive people I’m thankful for juice I’m thankful for kids who are learning how to read I’m thankful that I’m not in pain all the time I’m thankful for whoever invented the computer I’m thankful for cute pictures of kids I’m thankful for funny things I’m thankful for help with being me I’m thankful that I’m unique I’m thankful that I lived in a barn for a while I’m thankful that I get to sleep on the floor I’m thankful for my blanket that I travel everywhere with I’m thankful for book reports I’m thankful for the books I get free in exchange for reviews I’m thankful that we can express thoughts and ideas with words I’m thankful for fires I’m thankful for the way nature works I’m thankful for clean water to drink I’m thankful that we don’t have to haul our water I’m thankful that I can take time to relax each day I’m thankful for the life that I live I’m thankful that I got to help my little siblings and cousins learn about Gods amazing creation I’m thankful that God created the world and put me in it I’m thankful for outer space I’m thankful for plants I’m thankful for all the different kinds of animals there are I’m thankful for Jonathan Park I’m thankful for the idea of audio adventures I’m thankful that I could turn one of my books into an audio book I’m thankful for the ability to talk I’m thankful for my vocal cords I’m thankful for the Gaither Vocal Band I’m thankful for uplifting songs I’m thankful for our church I’m thankful for our pastor I’m thankful for people who really want to spread God’s truth and love I’m thankful for N and getting to work with her I’m thankful that N is getting married and that she’ll be a beautiful bride I’m thankful that Alexa is getting married I’m thankful that Helena can be such a great friend to so many people I’m thankful for gum I’m thankful for how yummy different flavors are I’m thankful for whatever my future is going to be and knowing that God holds it I’m thankful for knowing about love languages I’m thankful that I know about personality tests I’m thankful for Inca Cola I’m thankful for Marta and that she could live with our family for a while I’m thankful for Aubrey and all the time she’s stayed with our family I’m thankful that I got to have a tipi for a little while I’m thankful for all the story ideas I have I’m thankful that I’m creative I’m thankful for my books I’m hoping to work on soon I’m thankful that God loves me and that I can learn to love, too I’m thankful for pets I’m thankful for the ability to go shopping I’m thankful for the book Love Does I’m thankful for Bob Goff I’m thankful for learning to see life from different perspectives I’m thankful that I can expand my vocabulary by reading a lot I’m thankful for devices that make reading easy I’m thankful for everyone who writes good books I’m thankful for writing rules that I’ve learned I’m thankful for donuts I’m thankful that I got to go to Nashville I’m thankful that I can have a unique room I’m thankful that I’m a skunk I’m thankful for things that bring joy to people I’m thankful that my middle name is Joy I’m thankful that I like names so much I’m Thankful for the Name Game I’m thankful for the list of names I’ve made over the years that I can use for characters I’m thankful for name books I’m thankful for the Go Teen Writer Book I’m thankful for challenges I’m thankful for goals I’m thankful that I’m a goal oriented person I’m thankful that I have a dad who is, too I’m thankful for the Golden Nuggets I’m thankful that I was placed in the perfect family to help me learn and grow I’m thankful for my iPhone cord I’m thankful for electricity I’m thankful for my Grandma Liston loving God I’m thankful for the legacy that I had passed down to me I’m thankful for how close I am with so much of my cousins/aunts/uncles/grandparents I’m thankful that I get to go visit my grandparents soon I’m thankful for my Dad’s job I’m thankful for my nieces and nephews living within a days travel I’m thankful for cool hats I’m thankful for quotes I’m thankful for Zig Ziglar I’m Thankful for A. L. Williams I’m thankful for Doug Carter I’m thankful for Ken Ham I’m thankful for Steve Ham I’m thankful for Cathrine Farnes I’m thankful for Steve Golden I’m thankful for Charlie Wetzle I’m thankful for Bruce Wilkinson I’m thankful for Franklin Graham I’m thankful for the people I grew up going to church with I’m thankful for Su and all she does to help here I’m thankful for people who change and become more happy and wonderful I’m thankful for the blogs that I follow I’m thankful for people who I get inspired by I’m thankful for everyone who I have been able to inspire I’m thankful for everyone who is taking an active part in my life I’m thankful for Annie and how sweet she is I’m Thankful for Abbie and how she makes me laugh I’m thankful for Zebb and how he is quick and helpful I’m thankful for Zeke and how he’s funny and helpful I’m thankful for Zion and how he’s such a good reader I’m thankful for Uncle Zane and all he does to help out I’m thankful for Aunt Denise and what she does I’m thankful for Dakota and his willingness to step in and help out I’m Thankful for helpful people in general I’m thankful for fabric I’m thankful for my Audio Adrenaline I’m Thankful for Casting Crowns I’m thankful for Newsboys I’m thankful for Francesca Battistelli I’m thankful for Chris Tomlin I’m thankful for being able to delegate I’m thankful for Brandon Heath I’m Thankful for Hillsong I’m thankful for Buddy Davis music I’m thankful for my song that my adopted dad wrote for me I’m thankful that I was just able to spend a week at the Creation Museum I’m thankful for all the behind the scenes things I get to do I’m thankful for all the amazing experiences I’ve gotten to have I’m thankful that my life is my life and I get to live it I’m thankful for the ability to think and reason I’m thankful that God loved me enough to send His Son to die for me I’m thankful that God offers His love to everyone I’m thankful that I can learn to love people, too I’m thankful that I don’t freak out all the time I’m thankful that I can run I’m thankful for holidays I’m thankful for all the memories that surround different times of the year I’m thankful for storms when no one gets hurt I’m thankful for late night reading times I’m thankful for editing in the middle of the night when everything else is quiet I’m thankful for when I’m discouraged and I see light at the end of the tunnel I’m thankful for what I can accomplish I’m thankful that my identity comes from Jesus, not from what I can do I’m thankful for camping I’m thankful for being outside I’m thankful for campfires I’m thankful for cooking outside I’m thankful that I am a country girl I’m thankful for all my parents did so they could raise their kids out in the country I’m thankful for how many siblings I have I’m thankful that I wasn’t the youngest I’m thankful that I get to make special memories with my siblings I’m thankful for road trips I’m thankful that we got to go to Canada when I was little I’m thankful I could be a flower girl in my sister’s wedding I’m thankful I could be the maid of honor in my brother’s wedding I’m thankful I could make memories at the other weddings I’ve gone to I’m thankful for the beauty all around me that I get to drink in I’m thankful for apple cider I’m thankful for egg nog I’m thankful for hot tea I’m thankful for green beans and cheese I’m thankful for our golf cart that makes work easier I’m thankful for birthday celebrations I’m thankful that we were taught that sometimes waiting makes something better I’m thankful for cousin-related memories I’m thankful for being able to look and see the beauty in objects I’m thankful for loving people I’m thankful that I can memories Bible verses I’m thankful for God’s never ending faithfulness I’m thankful for my family’s ambitions I’m thankful for thankfulness
July 15, 2015
Sharing a Snippet
Hey y'all! It's been a while since I did my last writing/editing update so I figured I would post one today. The problem is I haven't been doing a lot with my writing/editing recently. Sure, I've been moseying along but not really getting anywhere. What I have been trying to do though is edit
When Life Hands You Lymes
. Therefore, I thought I'd share a little segment with y'all that I really like. It's one that I added in later on and pretty much would give a big hug to if it were possible. Enjoy!
Setting: The four siblings having a picnic by the ocean on Prince Edward Island.
We slipped and slid down the red earthen bank, bubbles of joy danced around my heart. I closed my eyes and felt the luscious sea wind blowing on me, tugging my hair that framed my face and tickling my nose. I opened my eyes when I felt someone tuck their arm through mine. “This feels like a movie, doesn’t it?” Katie asked. Her voice is relaxed, happy. I nodded as I felt the beauty enveloping my soul. “Are you two coming?” Jason waved at us from down closer to the beach. “The water’s refreshing, come join us!” Darrick extended the invitation. “Refreshing?” Katie cupped one hand around her mouth to shout at them. “Don’t you mean freezing?” Katie and I skipped toward the swelling waves.
* * *
“Darrick, what are you thinking?” Katie nudged him with her foot. “I’m just being quiet like normal.” Darrick shrugged. “Ha!” Katie scooted to the edge of the picnic blanket. “Any time you’re being quiet means you’re planning something mischievous.” “Where’s your faith in humankind?” Darrick grumbled as he held out his hands in a show of innocence. “It dissipated a little over twenty years ago when I became a big sister.” Katie glared and crossed her arms over her chest. “I don’t think you realize what you’ve put me through over the years.” “She’s turning into a cynical old lady.” Darrick shook his head sadly and stole one of Jason’s carrot sticks, crunching it loudly. “Sorry, I have to side with her on this one.” Jason tossed another carrot stick at him. “Do you remember the time I had friends over and you lured us outside and plastered mud all over us and when we went inside to clean up you’d turned off all the hot water and turned up the AC? And this was in November!” “Or the time I had friends over,” Katie jumped in, “and you came downstairs to our theater and convinced us you were sleep walking and talking and you told all sorts of embarrassing stories from when I was younger?” “Or what all the times you poured stake sauce, soy sauce or whatever in my iced tea when we’d go out to eat?” Jason grimaced just thinking about it. “And you told me that applesauce came from a hole drilled in an apple tree.” Katie looked disgusted. “I got in trouble for those holes you know.”
Darrick laughed gleefully, “You’re older than me. You’re supposed to know better than that.” “Hey, I’m older than you, too, but somehow you got me to believe that if someone was born left-handed it meant they were allergic to tree nuts.” Jason rummaged in the picnic basket and pulled out a package of nuts and began munching on them. “Which I later found has absolutely no validity.” “What about you, Madds? Surely our dear brother’s tricked you at some time.” “One time he convinced me that it would taste like candy if I licked a battery.” Darrick hooted with laughter at my words. “Oh yeah, he tried that one on me, too.” Katie shivered. “Thankfully I knew the truth.” “It was a rather shocking experience, you’ve got to admit.” Darrick looked smug at his pun usage. “Hardy ha ha.” Katie was not impressed. “If I remember correctly you’re not without fault in the younger sibling arena,” Jason grinned at Katie then threw an almond up in the air and caught it in his mouth. “I have lots of stories I could tell if I cared to.” “I guess I’m the only perfect older sibling here,” I gave myself a pat on my back. “Which isn’t hard to understand.” “Duh since you’re the youngest.” Katie stuck her tongue out at me producing gales of laughter from our brothers. “Here you act so old then pull a trick like sticking out your tongue, that is so kindergarden.” Jason flicked at nut at me. “You might not have been an ornery big sister to anyone, but you were enough trouble as a kid that I began bargaining with Mom to do anything other than baby sit you.” “Oh yeah!” Katie and Darrick pounce on this train of thought like cats on a mouse.
Setting: The four siblings having a picnic by the ocean on Prince Edward Island.
We slipped and slid down the red earthen bank, bubbles of joy danced around my heart. I closed my eyes and felt the luscious sea wind blowing on me, tugging my hair that framed my face and tickling my nose. I opened my eyes when I felt someone tuck their arm through mine. “This feels like a movie, doesn’t it?” Katie asked. Her voice is relaxed, happy. I nodded as I felt the beauty enveloping my soul. “Are you two coming?” Jason waved at us from down closer to the beach. “The water’s refreshing, come join us!” Darrick extended the invitation. “Refreshing?” Katie cupped one hand around her mouth to shout at them. “Don’t you mean freezing?” Katie and I skipped toward the swelling waves.
* * *
“Darrick, what are you thinking?” Katie nudged him with her foot. “I’m just being quiet like normal.” Darrick shrugged. “Ha!” Katie scooted to the edge of the picnic blanket. “Any time you’re being quiet means you’re planning something mischievous.” “Where’s your faith in humankind?” Darrick grumbled as he held out his hands in a show of innocence. “It dissipated a little over twenty years ago when I became a big sister.” Katie glared and crossed her arms over her chest. “I don’t think you realize what you’ve put me through over the years.” “She’s turning into a cynical old lady.” Darrick shook his head sadly and stole one of Jason’s carrot sticks, crunching it loudly. “Sorry, I have to side with her on this one.” Jason tossed another carrot stick at him. “Do you remember the time I had friends over and you lured us outside and plastered mud all over us and when we went inside to clean up you’d turned off all the hot water and turned up the AC? And this was in November!” “Or the time I had friends over,” Katie jumped in, “and you came downstairs to our theater and convinced us you were sleep walking and talking and you told all sorts of embarrassing stories from when I was younger?” “Or what all the times you poured stake sauce, soy sauce or whatever in my iced tea when we’d go out to eat?” Jason grimaced just thinking about it. “And you told me that applesauce came from a hole drilled in an apple tree.” Katie looked disgusted. “I got in trouble for those holes you know.”
Darrick laughed gleefully, “You’re older than me. You’re supposed to know better than that.” “Hey, I’m older than you, too, but somehow you got me to believe that if someone was born left-handed it meant they were allergic to tree nuts.” Jason rummaged in the picnic basket and pulled out a package of nuts and began munching on them. “Which I later found has absolutely no validity.” “What about you, Madds? Surely our dear brother’s tricked you at some time.” “One time he convinced me that it would taste like candy if I licked a battery.” Darrick hooted with laughter at my words. “Oh yeah, he tried that one on me, too.” Katie shivered. “Thankfully I knew the truth.” “It was a rather shocking experience, you’ve got to admit.” Darrick looked smug at his pun usage. “Hardy ha ha.” Katie was not impressed. “If I remember correctly you’re not without fault in the younger sibling arena,” Jason grinned at Katie then threw an almond up in the air and caught it in his mouth. “I have lots of stories I could tell if I cared to.” “I guess I’m the only perfect older sibling here,” I gave myself a pat on my back. “Which isn’t hard to understand.” “Duh since you’re the youngest.” Katie stuck her tongue out at me producing gales of laughter from our brothers. “Here you act so old then pull a trick like sticking out your tongue, that is so kindergarden.” Jason flicked at nut at me. “You might not have been an ornery big sister to anyone, but you were enough trouble as a kid that I began bargaining with Mom to do anything other than baby sit you.” “Oh yeah!” Katie and Darrick pounce on this train of thought like cats on a mouse.
July 14, 2015
This Thing Called Life
If I were to welcome you into my world right now, you'd probably be surprised. You'd see me sitting up at my best friend's house, wearing a pair of her socks and sipping peach tea as I flit around the house rocking her baby, cooking, helping out, enjoying pleasant conversation and sitting down to blog when I have a moment to grab.
Or if you'd stop by an hour from now you'd see me sitting at work with my co-workers around a table as we iron out the details for business meetings that are starting tomorrow. You'd hear a lot about job distribution, keeping things flowing smoothly, menus and schedules.
Tomorrow you'd stumble upon gales of laughter, sanity checks and rushing about the kitchen as we try to keep on top of everything. You'd hear lots of "What should I do?" and "Don't you think we should have the green beans cooking by now if we want to have them ready for supper?" and "Oh, dear, someone turned off the oven!" You'd probably have a completely different view of yours truly if you saw me during the ten minutes before a meal was supposed to be served. It's a scary sight.
If you stopped by you'd also hear about an encouraging conversation I had recently that made me realize I wasn't spending focused time with God each day like I should. You'd see how that conversation helped me put my life back in perspective and how I've been a lot more at peace since I've been focusing on God and His promises instead of all the problems I see around me.
If you were sitting next to me I'd share with you the verse I'm choosing to focus on today and how I'm ok with not being as amazing as I wish I were, because I'm not called to be amazing, I'm called to be thankful and at peace.
If you were here with me you'd know that my life isn't all that I had imagined or dreamed of. My plans have been pulled out from under me, but that's ok. My plans aren't the ones that matter. It's His plans that are the best.
Or if you'd stop by an hour from now you'd see me sitting at work with my co-workers around a table as we iron out the details for business meetings that are starting tomorrow. You'd hear a lot about job distribution, keeping things flowing smoothly, menus and schedules.
Tomorrow you'd stumble upon gales of laughter, sanity checks and rushing about the kitchen as we try to keep on top of everything. You'd hear lots of "What should I do?" and "Don't you think we should have the green beans cooking by now if we want to have them ready for supper?" and "Oh, dear, someone turned off the oven!" You'd probably have a completely different view of yours truly if you saw me during the ten minutes before a meal was supposed to be served. It's a scary sight.
If you stopped by you'd also hear about an encouraging conversation I had recently that made me realize I wasn't spending focused time with God each day like I should. You'd see how that conversation helped me put my life back in perspective and how I've been a lot more at peace since I've been focusing on God and His promises instead of all the problems I see around me.
If you were sitting next to me I'd share with you the verse I'm choosing to focus on today and how I'm ok with not being as amazing as I wish I were, because I'm not called to be amazing, I'm called to be thankful and at peace.
If you were here with me you'd know that my life isn't all that I had imagined or dreamed of. My plans have been pulled out from under me, but that's ok. My plans aren't the ones that matter. It's His plans that are the best.
July 13, 2015
Big Picture People - Book Review
Big Picture People By Doug Carter
Find it on:Amazon Goodreads
First personOne point of view Non-Fiction118 pages
About the Book
The job is too big. The resources are too small. It's just too easy. It's just too difficult.
Naysayers are never in short supply! Tackle a job seemingly behind your abilities, and you'll find them in every direction. But God's people learn to disregard negativism and see beyond the obvious. They focus their vision on God Himself, His higher purposes, His never failing strength. In short, they've learned to see the big picture.
Why I Choose this Book
I've actually already read this book at least once, probably several times, over the past few years. Our family has become friends with the author and his life, and his book, are inspiring. Big Picture People is a quick and easy read (probably three hours at the most) and it's encouraging and uplifting.
What I Thought
I really wish more people would read books like this. It talks about how many people go through life with a 'knothole view' instead of stepping back and seeing the big picture. Learning to see the big picture is truly a life changing experience.
God has a huge plan for each of His children's lives. When we give our lives over to Him and really start to seek Him and follow Him then our lives become so much more than they could ever be on our own.
This book helps us see better who God is and who we are and how God can use us.
Conclusion
This book has a bunch of quotes, Bible verses, personal stories and practical insight and is put together in such a way that it's really easy to read and enjoyable and inspiring all at the same time. I would happily give this book to a ten-year-old and thirty-year-old and ninety-year-old and expect them to all learn and grow from it.
Rating
I'm giving Big Picture People five stars and I would recommend it to anyone.
Praise for Big Picture People:
"In [Big Picture People] Doug shares vital keys to experiencing intimacy with Christ and making a maximum difference in His kingdom. Filled with wit and wisdom, this book is an easy read, but will profoundly change your life." -John Maxwell, founder of INJOY Group
"With refreshing style, Doug Carter has written a wonderful book for Christians who want to press beyond mediocrity and rise to excellence in their faith. [It is] full of practical insights for those who are eager to grow as disciples of Christ." -Bill McCartney, founder and president of Promise Keepers
Find it on:Amazon Goodreads
First personOne point of view Non-Fiction118 pages
About the Book
The job is too big. The resources are too small. It's just too easy. It's just too difficult.
Naysayers are never in short supply! Tackle a job seemingly behind your abilities, and you'll find them in every direction. But God's people learn to disregard negativism and see beyond the obvious. They focus their vision on God Himself, His higher purposes, His never failing strength. In short, they've learned to see the big picture.
Why I Choose this Book
I've actually already read this book at least once, probably several times, over the past few years. Our family has become friends with the author and his life, and his book, are inspiring. Big Picture People is a quick and easy read (probably three hours at the most) and it's encouraging and uplifting.
What I Thought
I really wish more people would read books like this. It talks about how many people go through life with a 'knothole view' instead of stepping back and seeing the big picture. Learning to see the big picture is truly a life changing experience.
God has a huge plan for each of His children's lives. When we give our lives over to Him and really start to seek Him and follow Him then our lives become so much more than they could ever be on our own.
This book helps us see better who God is and who we are and how God can use us.
Conclusion
This book has a bunch of quotes, Bible verses, personal stories and practical insight and is put together in such a way that it's really easy to read and enjoyable and inspiring all at the same time. I would happily give this book to a ten-year-old and thirty-year-old and ninety-year-old and expect them to all learn and grow from it.
Rating
I'm giving Big Picture People five stars and I would recommend it to anyone.
Praise for Big Picture People:
"In [Big Picture People] Doug shares vital keys to experiencing intimacy with Christ and making a maximum difference in His kingdom. Filled with wit and wisdom, this book is an easy read, but will profoundly change your life." -John Maxwell, founder of INJOY Group
"With refreshing style, Doug Carter has written a wonderful book for Christians who want to press beyond mediocrity and rise to excellence in their faith. [It is] full of practical insights for those who are eager to grow as disciples of Christ." -Bill McCartney, founder and president of Promise Keepers
July 10, 2015
When Life Hands You Lymes #78
Hey folks! It's time for the 78th segment of my fictional story
When Life Hands You Lymes
. I hope y'all enjoy it!
I reached over and fingered the carrot sticks that were on my nightstand. Carter had brought me a whole tray of food earlier that day but I hadn’t eaten much. “One. I’m thankful for my family.” They really did love and support me. Even Katie although sometimes we didn’t see eye to eye and that hurt. “Two. My music.” Music had brought me so much peace and comfort during the last couple years of my life and I couldn’t even begin to imagine what life would have been like if I hadn’t had it. “Three. Julia moving in. Four. That we know I have Lyme disease and I’m on the road to recovery. Five. That some day I will be all better and have wonderful health. Six. That I have happy memories from my childhood. Seven. That I have the ability to talk. And that I can hear. And that I can see. Eight. That my stomach aches have been slacking off. Nine. That I can be thankful.” Somewhere I here a clock chiming eleven pm and I realize that Dad must have left my hall door open when he left. I push the covers back and tentatively sit up. After a moment I swing my legs off the bed and stand up. “Ten. I’m thankful for the blessing of having medicine that I can take to help me get better. Eleven. That I have beautiful views from my windows. Twelve. That I met Amber. Thirteen. For Emerson Airlines. Fourteen. That my parents accept my dream of music instead of me growing up to work with Emerson Airlines. Fifteen. That I can count and add and subtract and do math in general. Sixteen. For hot water and cleanliness.” I limp into my dressing room and grab some clothes before heading toward the shower. “Seventeen. For food that I enjoy that’s on my diet. Eighteen. That I actually like Dr. Shay. Nineteen. That I’ve been able to do so much traveling in my life. Twenty. For how close Darrick and I have grown to each other. Twenty-one. That we don’t have any yippy little animals.” I shake my head when I think of my dream where Mom decided to raise poodles. It had been a disaster. “Twenty-two. That I’m pretty. At least when I haven’t just climbed out of bed. Twenty-three. For God’s grace. Twenty-four. For the knowledge that God has a perfect plan for my life.” When my shower was done I had been planning on going to my studio to practice but ended up lying back down. I wasn’t sleepy, but my energy level was low enough I knew I wouldn’t be able to do anything productive. And the silence. It was getting to me. I longed for human interaction but since everyone I knew was probably asleep, I was alone.
I flip open my computer and click on Youtube. After looking around for a couple of minutes I choose an old Andy Griffith and enter the world of Mayberry. They residents there keep me company for the next few hours as I work on addressing envelopes for Mom’s latest charity project and work up the energy to go to my music studio.
I reached over and fingered the carrot sticks that were on my nightstand. Carter had brought me a whole tray of food earlier that day but I hadn’t eaten much. “One. I’m thankful for my family.” They really did love and support me. Even Katie although sometimes we didn’t see eye to eye and that hurt. “Two. My music.” Music had brought me so much peace and comfort during the last couple years of my life and I couldn’t even begin to imagine what life would have been like if I hadn’t had it. “Three. Julia moving in. Four. That we know I have Lyme disease and I’m on the road to recovery. Five. That some day I will be all better and have wonderful health. Six. That I have happy memories from my childhood. Seven. That I have the ability to talk. And that I can hear. And that I can see. Eight. That my stomach aches have been slacking off. Nine. That I can be thankful.” Somewhere I here a clock chiming eleven pm and I realize that Dad must have left my hall door open when he left. I push the covers back and tentatively sit up. After a moment I swing my legs off the bed and stand up. “Ten. I’m thankful for the blessing of having medicine that I can take to help me get better. Eleven. That I have beautiful views from my windows. Twelve. That I met Amber. Thirteen. For Emerson Airlines. Fourteen. That my parents accept my dream of music instead of me growing up to work with Emerson Airlines. Fifteen. That I can count and add and subtract and do math in general. Sixteen. For hot water and cleanliness.” I limp into my dressing room and grab some clothes before heading toward the shower. “Seventeen. For food that I enjoy that’s on my diet. Eighteen. That I actually like Dr. Shay. Nineteen. That I’ve been able to do so much traveling in my life. Twenty. For how close Darrick and I have grown to each other. Twenty-one. That we don’t have any yippy little animals.” I shake my head when I think of my dream where Mom decided to raise poodles. It had been a disaster. “Twenty-two. That I’m pretty. At least when I haven’t just climbed out of bed. Twenty-three. For God’s grace. Twenty-four. For the knowledge that God has a perfect plan for my life.” When my shower was done I had been planning on going to my studio to practice but ended up lying back down. I wasn’t sleepy, but my energy level was low enough I knew I wouldn’t be able to do anything productive. And the silence. It was getting to me. I longed for human interaction but since everyone I knew was probably asleep, I was alone.
I flip open my computer and click on Youtube. After looking around for a couple of minutes I choose an old Andy Griffith and enter the world of Mayberry. They residents there keep me company for the next few hours as I work on addressing envelopes for Mom’s latest charity project and work up the energy to go to my music studio.
July 8, 2015
A Happy Little Milestone
There are days when I'm really not entirely thrilled about being a writer. The work that I spend on my writing seems to be way more taxing then the payoff justifies and my heart sometimes takes a nosedive.
But I continue on and keep working on my writing because do you know what? Writing is a gift. Words are a gift. Being able to craft a story is a gift. And I feel honored to have been given this gift and want to make sure I use it to the best of my ability.
You see the second part of Luke 12:48 says From everyone who has been given much, much will be required; and to whom they entrusted much, of him they will ask all the more. All of us have gifts that we've been given and each one of those gifts are special. Our job is to take the talents and gifts that God has given us and hone and shape them to bring Him honor.
Then there are days when I can actually see results with my writing and my world grows a rosy hue and I feel like dancing around and hugging everyone and celebrating.
Yesterday was the first time I signed one of my Cool Critters of the Ice Age book which is a notable milestone. Having a new book out and seeing people interested in it and buying it makes my little heart happy. It's as if I'm getting to share a special part of my world with someone else and that is a honor.
I grew up loving to read and pouring over books for hours at a time. I would dream of one day meeting an author or, gasp, even being one. And now I have that spectacular privilege of meeting children who love to read, too.
These happy times help me to keep my focus during the long hours of writing and editing and remind me that what I am doing really does make a difference.
* * *
What about you? What is one way you encourage yourself to keep going?
I'm at the Creation Museum this week, y'all, so if you're in the area you should really stop by!
But I continue on and keep working on my writing because do you know what? Writing is a gift. Words are a gift. Being able to craft a story is a gift. And I feel honored to have been given this gift and want to make sure I use it to the best of my ability.
You see the second part of Luke 12:48 says From everyone who has been given much, much will be required; and to whom they entrusted much, of him they will ask all the more. All of us have gifts that we've been given and each one of those gifts are special. Our job is to take the talents and gifts that God has given us and hone and shape them to bring Him honor.
Then there are days when I can actually see results with my writing and my world grows a rosy hue and I feel like dancing around and hugging everyone and celebrating.
Yesterday was the first time I signed one of my Cool Critters of the Ice Age book which is a notable milestone. Having a new book out and seeing people interested in it and buying it makes my little heart happy. It's as if I'm getting to share a special part of my world with someone else and that is a honor.
I grew up loving to read and pouring over books for hours at a time. I would dream of one day meeting an author or, gasp, even being one. And now I have that spectacular privilege of meeting children who love to read, too.
These happy times help me to keep my focus during the long hours of writing and editing and remind me that what I am doing really does make a difference.
* * *
What about you? What is one way you encourage yourself to keep going?
I'm at the Creation Museum this week, y'all, so if you're in the area you should really stop by!
July 6, 2015
A Week at the Creation Museum
I'm excited to be spending this week at the Creation Museum. It's always so much fun being here and hanging out with my adopted parents and friends and of course meet new people. Plus, this is the first time I got to see my newest book, Cool Critters of the Ice Age, in a book store, so that was a special experience.
I plan on being here through Friday, so if any of y'all are around I hope I get to see you! I will most likely be down in the Legacy Hall Bookstore after my adopted dad's concerts each day when he signs books (Because, crazy as it seems, sometimes people like me to sign the books too! *cue happy dance*)
And as always I'm looking forward to coming up with new story ideas and writing inspiration. The Creation Museum is a perfect place to have a flood of ideas descend on me. I've had the plot line for the second Creation Quest book spinning around in my mind for almost two years now, but I've never written it. I look forward to tackling that project soon.
***
What about you? Have you ever been to the Creation Museum?
I plan on being here through Friday, so if any of y'all are around I hope I get to see you! I will most likely be down in the Legacy Hall Bookstore after my adopted dad's concerts each day when he signs books (Because, crazy as it seems, sometimes people like me to sign the books too! *cue happy dance*)
And as always I'm looking forward to coming up with new story ideas and writing inspiration. The Creation Museum is a perfect place to have a flood of ideas descend on me. I've had the plot line for the second Creation Quest book spinning around in my mind for almost two years now, but I've never written it. I look forward to tackling that project soon.
***
What about you? Have you ever been to the Creation Museum?
