Lydia Howe's Blog, page 51
December 17, 2014
*Where Dandelions Grow* - Where the Story Came From Part 1
Sometimes inspiration comes for a book in an instant and won't stop dancing around in my head until I get it out in writing. That's the way it was with Where Dandelions Grow.
It was one of the last days of May in 2012 and I was sitting out under a canopy at my cousin Alexa's high school graduation party watching another cousin, Aubrey, play her cello with her quartet, the Sorelle. As I listened to the viola, two violins and cello blend together perfectly, a story jumped into my brain and refused to leave. Complete with the names for the characters, which is totally unusual for me
Over the next few days I walked around saying the names over and over as the rest of the story fell into place. Kamryn, Lexie, Teal and Destiny. Kamryn, Lexie, Teal and Destiny.
Four cousins. Four fighting mothers. A dream childhood cut short by a family feud. Questions. Searching. Answers. Reconciliation. Taking the high road. Searching for peace. Dandelions.
My story was so uniquely different from anything else I'd ever written that I mildly freaked out. It was my first try at writing young adult fiction and my first time to tackle a story so removed from the happy, loved-filled acceptance I basked in from my family.
I was concerned my parents wouldn't understand. They might think I viewed my childhood the way Destiny did which is about as far from the truth as you can get. Or maybe I'd get it totally wrong and people would look down their noses at me for being so unrealistic. Or maybe..?
Silencing the the negativity with a stern lecture, I set to work, giving myself several guidelines to ensure my book continued and I wouldn't get lax on the project.
1. I was not allowed to go back through and re-read the book or do any editing until I was finished writing it2. I would write the story I had, not caring about what other people thought 3. No one else would see my project until I was finished with the first draft4. I wouldn't begin another book until this one was done5. I would aim for 50,000 words Which would make it the longest story I'd written
Part 2 Coming Soon to a Computer Near You!
It was one of the last days of May in 2012 and I was sitting out under a canopy at my cousin Alexa's high school graduation party watching another cousin, Aubrey, play her cello with her quartet, the Sorelle. As I listened to the viola, two violins and cello blend together perfectly, a story jumped into my brain and refused to leave. Complete with the names for the characters, which is totally unusual for me
Over the next few days I walked around saying the names over and over as the rest of the story fell into place. Kamryn, Lexie, Teal and Destiny. Kamryn, Lexie, Teal and Destiny.
Four cousins. Four fighting mothers. A dream childhood cut short by a family feud. Questions. Searching. Answers. Reconciliation. Taking the high road. Searching for peace. Dandelions.
My story was so uniquely different from anything else I'd ever written that I mildly freaked out. It was my first try at writing young adult fiction and my first time to tackle a story so removed from the happy, loved-filled acceptance I basked in from my family.
I was concerned my parents wouldn't understand. They might think I viewed my childhood the way Destiny did which is about as far from the truth as you can get. Or maybe I'd get it totally wrong and people would look down their noses at me for being so unrealistic. Or maybe..?
Silencing the the negativity with a stern lecture, I set to work, giving myself several guidelines to ensure my book continued and I wouldn't get lax on the project.
1. I was not allowed to go back through and re-read the book or do any editing until I was finished writing it2. I would write the story I had, not caring about what other people thought 3. No one else would see my project until I was finished with the first draft4. I wouldn't begin another book until this one was done5. I would aim for 50,000 words Which would make it the longest story I'd written
Part 2 Coming Soon to a Computer Near You!
December 16, 2014
Dandelions
Dandelions.
To me, they're magnificent little pieces of beauty. I know a lot of people view them as weeds, but to me they have a deep meaning that I find awe-inspiring.
Their durability and tenacity encourages me to keep going even when times get tough.
Their multiple layers remind me that people's emotions are complex and often times there's much more to a situation than what I'm seeing.
Their bright color makes me smile and prompts me to be a splash of sunshine to people I come in contact with.
Their ability to grow beautiful even in harsh conditions when everything around them is dying motivates me to take courage.
Mostly though it's the way that I see them that inspires me.
The knowledge that I can look at what most people see as weeds, as something worthless, and see a stunning masterpiece fills me with wonder and awe. It gives me a picture of how I think God sees us.
So many people feel worthless. They feel plain. They don't think they're good enough. They disappear into the shadows trying to blend in with an unkind world. They laugh with everyone else. They eat, they talk, they move. They appear to be ok; but they're not. The pain in their heart is too hard to hold on to any more. Deep down their whole being is crying out, begging for someone to show them love.
Often times we pass them by, just another weed in a sea of busyness. We don't mean to, but it's life. In reality we don't even notice them. They don't enter our sphere of consciousness.
But God sees something different. Something special. Something worth taking note of.
Each person is one of God's masterpieces. A durable, multi-layered, deep, beautiful being who He created in His image. Who He was willing to give His Son for.
Each one of us is unique. Each one of us has a future, a gift given to us from the King of Kings. Each one of us has purpose, a gift, a place in this world.
We are here because God, who spoke the galaxies, the oceans and the dandelions into existence, knit us together for a reason.
I want to look around the world and see people the way I see dandelions: Beautiful, bursting with potential, remarkable... A masterpiece from the hand of the Creator.
To me, they're magnificent little pieces of beauty. I know a lot of people view them as weeds, but to me they have a deep meaning that I find awe-inspiring.
Their durability and tenacity encourages me to keep going even when times get tough.
Their multiple layers remind me that people's emotions are complex and often times there's much more to a situation than what I'm seeing.
Their bright color makes me smile and prompts me to be a splash of sunshine to people I come in contact with.
Their ability to grow beautiful even in harsh conditions when everything around them is dying motivates me to take courage.
Mostly though it's the way that I see them that inspires me.
The knowledge that I can look at what most people see as weeds, as something worthless, and see a stunning masterpiece fills me with wonder and awe. It gives me a picture of how I think God sees us.
So many people feel worthless. They feel plain. They don't think they're good enough. They disappear into the shadows trying to blend in with an unkind world. They laugh with everyone else. They eat, they talk, they move. They appear to be ok; but they're not. The pain in their heart is too hard to hold on to any more. Deep down their whole being is crying out, begging for someone to show them love.
Often times we pass them by, just another weed in a sea of busyness. We don't mean to, but it's life. In reality we don't even notice them. They don't enter our sphere of consciousness.
But God sees something different. Something special. Something worth taking note of.
Each person is one of God's masterpieces. A durable, multi-layered, deep, beautiful being who He created in His image. Who He was willing to give His Son for.
Each one of us is unique. Each one of us has a future, a gift given to us from the King of Kings. Each one of us has purpose, a gift, a place in this world.
We are here because God, who spoke the galaxies, the oceans and the dandelions into existence, knit us together for a reason.
I want to look around the world and see people the way I see dandelions: Beautiful, bursting with potential, remarkable... A masterpiece from the hand of the Creator.
I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knowleth right well.Psalm 139:14
December 15, 2014
Current Project: Editing
Today I'm going to be working on editing, or at least that's the plan. Editing doesn't come nearly as easy to me as writing does ask my editor, he puts up with a lot from me but I am getting better and that makes it more fun.
Where Dandelions Grow is a book I wrote around May of 2012 and I have learned a lot in the past two and a half years so therefore I have a good amount of work that needs to take place in this manuscript. My editor has already gone through it once a while ago, actually; we had to set it aside to work on another project and now I'm working on incorporating the changes that he suggested and adding in some of the elements that I've learned.
As I've mentioned before I have trouble with giving my characters unique characteristics that set them apart, so I've been working on that in this book. The characters in WDG are much more distinct to me than the other books I've written because the four main characters are based loosely off of me, my sister and two of our cousins. That also makes this book a lot more fun to work on. It's crazy remembering different instances that I based certain scenes on and then thinking of how much times have changed.
I was taking a walk this morning, thinking about my characters of course, of course, what else would I think about while walking? and I realized that one of the girls, Destiny, is an introvert and another girl, Lexie, is an extravert. I'm was barely even familiar with those words when I wrote Where Dandelions Grow. I decided to explore the idea a little bit more while working on these edits to make each character a little bit more special. I'm excited about this 'revelation.' :)
I'm also working on adding things like smells, tastes, textures, sights and sounds. I don't generally see the same things most other people see, so I have to work a little extra on adding 'normal' details. (For instance: I walk into a room and I might zero in on the fact that there's a cute little stuffed animal sitting on the mantle but I'll totally zone out on the color of the room, if there's a fire in the fireplace, the type of furniture they have or what it smells like.)
Then of course I have the normal things like clearing up a few confusing parts, expounding on some elements, adding more details to make certain scenes easier to follow and cutting out unneeded scenes and words.
It's been a long process so far, but good, too. I'm excited about this book and looking forward to moving it to the next level.
* * *
What about you? What are you working on today?
Where Dandelions Grow is a book I wrote around May of 2012 and I have learned a lot in the past two and a half years so therefore I have a good amount of work that needs to take place in this manuscript. My editor has already gone through it once a while ago, actually; we had to set it aside to work on another project and now I'm working on incorporating the changes that he suggested and adding in some of the elements that I've learned.
As I've mentioned before I have trouble with giving my characters unique characteristics that set them apart, so I've been working on that in this book. The characters in WDG are much more distinct to me than the other books I've written because the four main characters are based loosely off of me, my sister and two of our cousins. That also makes this book a lot more fun to work on. It's crazy remembering different instances that I based certain scenes on and then thinking of how much times have changed.
I was taking a walk this morning, thinking about my characters of course, of course, what else would I think about while walking? and I realized that one of the girls, Destiny, is an introvert and another girl, Lexie, is an extravert. I'm was barely even familiar with those words when I wrote Where Dandelions Grow. I decided to explore the idea a little bit more while working on these edits to make each character a little bit more special. I'm excited about this 'revelation.' :)
I'm also working on adding things like smells, tastes, textures, sights and sounds. I don't generally see the same things most other people see, so I have to work a little extra on adding 'normal' details. (For instance: I walk into a room and I might zero in on the fact that there's a cute little stuffed animal sitting on the mantle but I'll totally zone out on the color of the room, if there's a fire in the fireplace, the type of furniture they have or what it smells like.)
Then of course I have the normal things like clearing up a few confusing parts, expounding on some elements, adding more details to make certain scenes easier to follow and cutting out unneeded scenes and words.
It's been a long process so far, but good, too. I'm excited about this book and looking forward to moving it to the next level.
* * *
What about you? What are you working on today?
December 12, 2014
When Life Hands You Lymes #50
Oh my word. I just had this crazy feeling. I totally forgot we were in December. I totally forgot we were so close to the end of the year. Then, I looked and I'm like "This is the 50th Friday of the year, how can that be? Aren't there only 52 weeks in the year?" So, I looked up how many Fridays there are in 2014, and it says52, so I'm thinking "How did I mess up on my count? How can that be?" Then I glanced at the top of my computer and it says "Thu Dec 11" (I'm writing this the night before) and I realize that WAIT A SECOND, it is almost the end of the year! and that feels really crazy.
Ok, that was an Aidyl Moment for yall. :)
Today, folks, I'm happy to present you with the 50th segment of my fictional story, When Life Hands You Lymes...
Dear Jason, Wow. Can you believe it? I’m actually emailing you instead of flooding you with text messages. I’m a pretty good little sister, right? Well, I try to be. I mean, I figured that since it’s after 2:00 am there (which, by the way, means it’s after 5:00 here and yeah, I’ve gotten like an hour of sleep), than you might be trying to sleep and text messages wouldn’t be welcome. (I know, I know, total run-on sentence there, but I figured you wouldn’t mind it like Mrs. Kame does.)
So, today (ahem, yesterday, I guess) was a pretty good day for me. I didn’t have much sleep, but I felt bright and chipper and in great spirits. I got a lot of practice time in and that of course made me even happier. I’m working on a rather difficult piece for the Ashburg Symphony but it’s fun, too. It’s a rhythm that I’m not used to but I think I’ve gotten it down pretty well. I’ve even found myself humming and tapping my fingers to it recently which I guess is a good sign.
Katie helped out with a kids “back to school” bash thingie last week. It was pretty fun seeing her all dressed up in a very un-Katie like manner. It was the highlight of my day, which just goes to show you that I wasn’t having the best of days or else I’ve gotten really shallow. ;)
As I’m writing this I’m listening to an amazing CD that Darrick just got for me. It has a lot of praise and worship music, but not the fluffy stuff that you normally here. These songs are deep and encouraging.
Everyone else in the family is still asleep although they’ll probably be getting up soon. I was able to sleep from around 2:00 until 3:00, but other than that I’ve been up all night. I really don’t know what’s going on with me but it’s kinda scary. I’ve never heard of thyroid problems making it so someone can’t sleep, but of course I’ve never studied anything even remotely related to anything medical.
Do you want to know the real and honest truth? Well, here it goes: I’m freaked out by everything right now. I don’t know why I feel like this. I don’t know how I got this way. I don’t know how to change. I feel so helpless and out of control. It’s like my body is taking over and I can’t do anything to stop it. I’ve really been struggling recently to keep a positive mindset and to focus on the good things in life. At times I am a grumpy grouch who doesn’t show any appreciation for the many blessings in my life. Well, ok, sometimes I forget I even have blessings. All I can see is the huge mountain in front of me that I have no clue how to get over. Just looking at it feels me with so much dread and completely and utterly overwhelmed me.
See, that ^ is so unlike cheery little (ok, not so little) me that I’m not even sure what to think. I’m used to being the life of the party, the bright spot, the optimistic girl that everyone loves. And I’m changing. I have to keep reminding myself to focus on God. To remember that He does have a plan. That He still loves me. That I can find my strength in Him.
Jason, please pray for me. I’m scared.
I love you, bro!
~Maddie
Ok, that was an Aidyl Moment for yall. :)
Today, folks, I'm happy to present you with the 50th segment of my fictional story, When Life Hands You Lymes...
Dear Jason, Wow. Can you believe it? I’m actually emailing you instead of flooding you with text messages. I’m a pretty good little sister, right? Well, I try to be. I mean, I figured that since it’s after 2:00 am there (which, by the way, means it’s after 5:00 here and yeah, I’ve gotten like an hour of sleep), than you might be trying to sleep and text messages wouldn’t be welcome. (I know, I know, total run-on sentence there, but I figured you wouldn’t mind it like Mrs. Kame does.)
So, today (ahem, yesterday, I guess) was a pretty good day for me. I didn’t have much sleep, but I felt bright and chipper and in great spirits. I got a lot of practice time in and that of course made me even happier. I’m working on a rather difficult piece for the Ashburg Symphony but it’s fun, too. It’s a rhythm that I’m not used to but I think I’ve gotten it down pretty well. I’ve even found myself humming and tapping my fingers to it recently which I guess is a good sign.
Katie helped out with a kids “back to school” bash thingie last week. It was pretty fun seeing her all dressed up in a very un-Katie like manner. It was the highlight of my day, which just goes to show you that I wasn’t having the best of days or else I’ve gotten really shallow. ;)
As I’m writing this I’m listening to an amazing CD that Darrick just got for me. It has a lot of praise and worship music, but not the fluffy stuff that you normally here. These songs are deep and encouraging.
Everyone else in the family is still asleep although they’ll probably be getting up soon. I was able to sleep from around 2:00 until 3:00, but other than that I’ve been up all night. I really don’t know what’s going on with me but it’s kinda scary. I’ve never heard of thyroid problems making it so someone can’t sleep, but of course I’ve never studied anything even remotely related to anything medical.
Do you want to know the real and honest truth? Well, here it goes: I’m freaked out by everything right now. I don’t know why I feel like this. I don’t know how I got this way. I don’t know how to change. I feel so helpless and out of control. It’s like my body is taking over and I can’t do anything to stop it. I’ve really been struggling recently to keep a positive mindset and to focus on the good things in life. At times I am a grumpy grouch who doesn’t show any appreciation for the many blessings in my life. Well, ok, sometimes I forget I even have blessings. All I can see is the huge mountain in front of me that I have no clue how to get over. Just looking at it feels me with so much dread and completely and utterly overwhelmed me.
See, that ^ is so unlike cheery little (ok, not so little) me that I’m not even sure what to think. I’m used to being the life of the party, the bright spot, the optimistic girl that everyone loves. And I’m changing. I have to keep reminding myself to focus on God. To remember that He does have a plan. That He still loves me. That I can find my strength in Him.
Jason, please pray for me. I’m scared.
I love you, bro!
~Maddie
December 10, 2014
Africa
Africa.
The word has filled so many people with wonder, curiosity, terror, amazement, dreams and excitement over the last several centuries.
The first book I read that featured Africa was probably a children's biography about David Livingstone. I remember being amazed by his life, his work there, his dedication. I subsequently read several more books about the man and was astonished at all the perils he braved and hardships he went through.
When I was introduced to Mary Slessor through another biography, I was shocked and horrified to read about how the African people where she lived believed that when twins were born one of them was an evil spirit. Since they couldn't figure out which child was the evil spirit and which was the baby, they'd leave both children out in the wild to die. Mary began saving these children and raising them, showing the people that they were both normal children after all.
Over the years I read many books that took place in Africa, both fiction and non-fiction. The world there seemed so different from my own. Filled with wonder and amazement, I'd gobble up the books and then look for more.
From my earliest years I can remember my parents reading to us about different missionaries, having prayer times for modern missionaries and learning as much as possible about them. We often went to churches where missionaries were speaking and attended conferences surrounding missions.
Any time we didn't like the food we'd been served, our parents would make us eat extra and tell us "It's good missionary training", when we had a hardship and wanted to complain, the words "Good missionary training" silenced us.
Every chance we got we'd invite missionaries into our home and treat them like royalty. My parents drilled the concept into our lives by their actions and their words "These people have given their lives to serve God, and this is our chance to serve them as a thank you."
Listening wide-eyed as our missionary friends talked about walking for dozens of miles, having their clothes devoured by an army of ants, eating cats, the difficulties of learning a new language and the stinging aloneness of having all their family and friends across the ocean gave me a somber appreciation for all they go through.
Over the years I've gotten to go on several short-term mission trips in South America and Asia and help out/encourage missionaries who have dedicated their lives to telling other's about God in far away countries. I've also gotten to visit with missionaries in Europe and right here in North America.
And now, I have the great privilege of doing the same in Africa.
I'm so excited to be traveling to that far-away continent a month from today (Lord willing) with my sister and cousin to help out/visit/encourage some missionary friends of ours for a couple of weeks. I'm amazed that it's actually working out and thrilled to see what God has in store for us.
If y'all think about it, you could pray that everything works out the way it should and that we'd be a big encouragement. Thanks, everyone!
The word has filled so many people with wonder, curiosity, terror, amazement, dreams and excitement over the last several centuries.
The first book I read that featured Africa was probably a children's biography about David Livingstone. I remember being amazed by his life, his work there, his dedication. I subsequently read several more books about the man and was astonished at all the perils he braved and hardships he went through.
When I was introduced to Mary Slessor through another biography, I was shocked and horrified to read about how the African people where she lived believed that when twins were born one of them was an evil spirit. Since they couldn't figure out which child was the evil spirit and which was the baby, they'd leave both children out in the wild to die. Mary began saving these children and raising them, showing the people that they were both normal children after all.
Over the years I read many books that took place in Africa, both fiction and non-fiction. The world there seemed so different from my own. Filled with wonder and amazement, I'd gobble up the books and then look for more.
From my earliest years I can remember my parents reading to us about different missionaries, having prayer times for modern missionaries and learning as much as possible about them. We often went to churches where missionaries were speaking and attended conferences surrounding missions.
Any time we didn't like the food we'd been served, our parents would make us eat extra and tell us "It's good missionary training", when we had a hardship and wanted to complain, the words "Good missionary training" silenced us.
Every chance we got we'd invite missionaries into our home and treat them like royalty. My parents drilled the concept into our lives by their actions and their words "These people have given their lives to serve God, and this is our chance to serve them as a thank you."
Listening wide-eyed as our missionary friends talked about walking for dozens of miles, having their clothes devoured by an army of ants, eating cats, the difficulties of learning a new language and the stinging aloneness of having all their family and friends across the ocean gave me a somber appreciation for all they go through.
Over the years I've gotten to go on several short-term mission trips in South America and Asia and help out/encourage missionaries who have dedicated their lives to telling other's about God in far away countries. I've also gotten to visit with missionaries in Europe and right here in North America.
And now, I have the great privilege of doing the same in Africa.
I'm so excited to be traveling to that far-away continent a month from today (Lord willing) with my sister and cousin to help out/visit/encourage some missionary friends of ours for a couple of weeks. I'm amazed that it's actually working out and thrilled to see what God has in store for us.
If y'all think about it, you could pray that everything works out the way it should and that we'd be a big encouragement. Thanks, everyone!
December 9, 2014
Inspiration
Inspiration. It's a delightful word; it even feels beautiful on my tongue. It's filled with wonder, with endless possibilities, with a thousand stories yet to be written.
As a writer, my job pivots on inspiration which is why I post about it on here so often.... Without at least a glimpse of the important element, my writing would be very stagnant indeed. When inspiration is flowing through my veins, it's as if a current of possibilities flows along with it into an ocean of excitement.
Inspiration is very important to me, but sometimes it's lacking.
I discovered early on that I can't sit around and wait for inspiration to come find me. I have to go searching for it like an ornery puppy dog who's escaped. Even after I've found it, it sometimes slips away when I'm in the middle of a project and I've found that I'm so much more productive when I'm working with inspiration by my side that sometimes not all the time it's worth it to stop what I'm doing and embark on the quest to bring it home.
How I get inspired:
*I take a walk (or swing) while listening to music and doing a lot of talking yes, talking out loud*I make a list of things I'm thankful for and take a few minutes to dwell on all the blessings I have*I make a list mental or physical of amazing things I've been able to do or places I've gone *I read old blog posts of mine sounds crazy, but it works*I look outside and take time to really notice the beauty *I pet my dog, rabbit, rat, or the goats*I imagine what life could be like in the future *I listen to music this is a REALLY big one!*I read other blog articles or sometimes go on Facebook or Google+ or my on-line writing group When I do that, I have to make sure I keep track of time and only use a few minutes; you know, being for real and not using it for procrastination *I read part of a book I really enjoy*I take a break and do something like laundry or cooking *I close my eyes and just imagine *I clean my office a dirty office stunts inspiration *I read through encouraging notes, comments and letters people have sent me *I do something unique like eating a fragment that fell off of a fossilized T-rex tooth *I read quotes by other authors*I set short-term goals for myself write 500 words in 15 minutes about going duck hunting*I make silly faces
***
What about you? How do you find inspiration? I'd be delighted to hear! :)
As a writer, my job pivots on inspiration which is why I post about it on here so often.... Without at least a glimpse of the important element, my writing would be very stagnant indeed. When inspiration is flowing through my veins, it's as if a current of possibilities flows along with it into an ocean of excitement.
Inspiration is very important to me, but sometimes it's lacking.
I discovered early on that I can't sit around and wait for inspiration to come find me. I have to go searching for it like an ornery puppy dog who's escaped. Even after I've found it, it sometimes slips away when I'm in the middle of a project and I've found that I'm so much more productive when I'm working with inspiration by my side that sometimes not all the time it's worth it to stop what I'm doing and embark on the quest to bring it home.
How I get inspired:
*I take a walk (or swing) while listening to music and doing a lot of talking yes, talking out loud*I make a list of things I'm thankful for and take a few minutes to dwell on all the blessings I have*I make a list mental or physical of amazing things I've been able to do or places I've gone *I read old blog posts of mine sounds crazy, but it works*I look outside and take time to really notice the beauty *I pet my dog, rabbit, rat, or the goats*I imagine what life could be like in the future *I listen to music this is a REALLY big one!*I read other blog articles or sometimes go on Facebook or Google+ or my on-line writing group When I do that, I have to make sure I keep track of time and only use a few minutes; you know, being for real and not using it for procrastination *I read part of a book I really enjoy*I take a break and do something like laundry or cooking *I close my eyes and just imagine *I clean my office a dirty office stunts inspiration *I read through encouraging notes, comments and letters people have sent me *I do something unique like eating a fragment that fell off of a fossilized T-rex tooth *I read quotes by other authors*I set short-term goals for myself write 500 words in 15 minutes about going duck hunting*I make silly faces
***
What about you? How do you find inspiration? I'd be delighted to hear! :)
December 8, 2014
I am Thankful
I am so thankful for my life. I am so very thankful for all I've gotten to do and experience and help with and work on. I'm happy for experiments and excitement and extra-craziness.
I'm filled with gratitude when I think of all the places I've gotten to go to. All the traveling I've done, the people I've met, and the dreams I've had come true.
I'm thrilled when I think of the children who have read my books and enjoyed them and learned something from their pages. I'm awed when I think of my books being able to effect people who I'll never even meet or know about. I'm simply amazed when I meet someone who has read my book and I hear about how they liked it.
I'm overwhelmed with the sense of having a special treasure when I think of my hearing and how I can listen to music for hours on end, the sweet voices of little friends telling me that they love me, birds singing and the swishing of the wind and rain.
My joy overflows when I stop and think about my eyes and all I can see. From the beautiful sunsets in Nebraska to breathtaking waterfalls in Asia, from mountain top views in Peru to fireflies blinking over a hay field here at home. From children's dirty faces to flowers blooming in abundance. From Christmas lights sparkling to food that I'm cooking. From the words that I spend hours reading to the words I spend hours writing.
My thankfulness goes up a notch when I think of all I can smell and taste. From the scent of a fresh morning to the tingling taste of a bite of tart fruit. From the lilacs in the spring to the evergreens in winter. From butter pecan ice cream to cotton candy. From the cool air in a cave to fresh, clean water. From holiday cooking to a sweet potato with butter and cinnamon and bursting with flavor.
The ability to feel is something I'll always be thankful for. From textures on fabric to hugs from my parents. From smooth food I'm preparing for lunch to the sharp stones beneath my feet. From the stinging awareness of cold water running over my hands to the ruffled fur on goats. From the glorious feeling of a small child's hands in around my neck to the happy sensation of a water fight.
I get filled with a squishy sense of joy when I think of my family and how much they mean to me and how much I mean to them. I'm filled-to-bursting when I think of my friends who I'm close to who I've been able to shower with love and be loved by. I'm excited when I think about friends who I'm just getting to know, or getting to know better, and all the adventures and memories we'll make in the future.
I am in awe when I think of the God of the universe, the Creator of all, taking an interest in my life. And not just a passing interest, either. He wants to be an intricate part of my every-day existence. He is what I live for. I am so thankful that He will never leave or give up on me. I'm amazed and thrilled and happy when I think of how He knows the beginning from the end, so even when I stumble and don't live like it sometimes, I never need to worry. My life is held by perfect Hands.
I'm mystified when I think of how this can actually be my life. The wonderful, the good, the bad, and the breathtaking. This is me. These are the memories I'll have to look back on when I'm a cute, little, old lady with white hair and a face transformed by happy wrinkles. These days when I struggle, these days when I rise above, these days when I'm not sure what I'm supposed to do next, or I do know but I'm utterly overwhelmed, these days make up my life. And my life is a gift. A gift that I've been given that I want to make the most of.
I am so thankful for my life. I'm thankful for the easy parts. I'm thankful for the hard parts. I'm thankful that I can take the seconds, minutes, hours, days, months and years that I've been given and turn them into something that will make a difference in eternity.
* * * What about you? What are some things that you're thankful for today? I'd be delighted to hear!
Oh, and don't forget to check out this music contest and vote for our friend, Aaron Smith. You can pass the word along, too, if you feel so inclined.
I'm filled with gratitude when I think of all the places I've gotten to go to. All the traveling I've done, the people I've met, and the dreams I've had come true.
I'm thrilled when I think of the children who have read my books and enjoyed them and learned something from their pages. I'm awed when I think of my books being able to effect people who I'll never even meet or know about. I'm simply amazed when I meet someone who has read my book and I hear about how they liked it.
I'm overwhelmed with the sense of having a special treasure when I think of my hearing and how I can listen to music for hours on end, the sweet voices of little friends telling me that they love me, birds singing and the swishing of the wind and rain.
My joy overflows when I stop and think about my eyes and all I can see. From the beautiful sunsets in Nebraska to breathtaking waterfalls in Asia, from mountain top views in Peru to fireflies blinking over a hay field here at home. From children's dirty faces to flowers blooming in abundance. From Christmas lights sparkling to food that I'm cooking. From the words that I spend hours reading to the words I spend hours writing.
My thankfulness goes up a notch when I think of all I can smell and taste. From the scent of a fresh morning to the tingling taste of a bite of tart fruit. From the lilacs in the spring to the evergreens in winter. From butter pecan ice cream to cotton candy. From the cool air in a cave to fresh, clean water. From holiday cooking to a sweet potato with butter and cinnamon and bursting with flavor.
The ability to feel is something I'll always be thankful for. From textures on fabric to hugs from my parents. From smooth food I'm preparing for lunch to the sharp stones beneath my feet. From the stinging awareness of cold water running over my hands to the ruffled fur on goats. From the glorious feeling of a small child's hands in around my neck to the happy sensation of a water fight.
I get filled with a squishy sense of joy when I think of my family and how much they mean to me and how much I mean to them. I'm filled-to-bursting when I think of my friends who I'm close to who I've been able to shower with love and be loved by. I'm excited when I think about friends who I'm just getting to know, or getting to know better, and all the adventures and memories we'll make in the future.
I am in awe when I think of the God of the universe, the Creator of all, taking an interest in my life. And not just a passing interest, either. He wants to be an intricate part of my every-day existence. He is what I live for. I am so thankful that He will never leave or give up on me. I'm amazed and thrilled and happy when I think of how He knows the beginning from the end, so even when I stumble and don't live like it sometimes, I never need to worry. My life is held by perfect Hands.
I'm mystified when I think of how this can actually be my life. The wonderful, the good, the bad, and the breathtaking. This is me. These are the memories I'll have to look back on when I'm a cute, little, old lady with white hair and a face transformed by happy wrinkles. These days when I struggle, these days when I rise above, these days when I'm not sure what I'm supposed to do next, or I do know but I'm utterly overwhelmed, these days make up my life. And my life is a gift. A gift that I've been given that I want to make the most of.
I am so thankful for my life. I'm thankful for the easy parts. I'm thankful for the hard parts. I'm thankful that I can take the seconds, minutes, hours, days, months and years that I've been given and turn them into something that will make a difference in eternity.
* * * What about you? What are some things that you're thankful for today? I'd be delighted to hear!
Oh, and don't forget to check out this music contest and vote for our friend, Aaron Smith. You can pass the word along, too, if you feel so inclined.
December 6, 2014
Giveaway Winner Announced
Alright people! It's time for the winner of this lovely giveaway to be announced! (This is from the Comment and Quote Game we played during the blog tour last month.)
And the winner (chosen randomly) is... Keturah Lamb!
Congratulations, Keturah! Please, email me at aidylewoh@gmail.com with the address that you'd like the prize to be sent to. Thank you!
And the winner (chosen randomly) is... Keturah Lamb!
Congratulations, Keturah! Please, email me at aidylewoh@gmail.com with the address that you'd like the prize to be sent to. Thank you!
December 5, 2014
Love Without Limits - Book Review
Love Without Limits
By Nick Vujicic with Kanae Vujicic
Find it on: Amazon
First PersonTwo points of viewNon-Fiction242 Pages
About the book:(From the back cover)
Even though he was born without arms or legs, Nick Vujicic created a “ridiculously good life.” But after dating disappointments and a failed relationship, he reached his mid-twenties worried that he would never find a woman to love him and share his life.
Then Nick met Kanae and everything changed. But even with undeniable chemistry, they would have to navigate twists and turns worthy of a romantic comedy before becoming "one" in marriage.
In Love Without Limits Nick and Kanae tell how they improbably found each other, fell in love, and then fought to overcome skepticism from others about their relationship. Filled with practical insights that will benefit any couple, this inspiring book describes a godly courtship and the early years of the Vujicics’ marriage and parenting journey.
Above all, Love Without Limits is an inspiring reminder that when Christ is at the center of a relationship--even with serious challenges--true love will triumph.
Why I chose the book:
Um, it was by Nick Vujicic and his wife. I didn't even read the backcover I was just like "YES!" and requested it. I mean, come on people! It's got to be good. :)
What I thought:
I guess maybe it would have been a good idea for me to read the backcover and at least get an idea about what the book was about but I think I would have requested it anyway because I really like the other stuff I've read, watched and heard by Nick Vujicic.
The book was centered around relationships. The first part of the book I was like "This is really good, it applies to pretty much everyone." As the book progressed though, it centered more on dating/engaged/married population of the world, which makes sense, because that's who the book was written for. That didn't resonate with me as much because that's not where I am in life, but it was still good. (Just a note: There were some parts that are for older audiences.)
Overall it was really good. I'm sure there were some things I don't agree with, but I can't recall anything at this moment. The whole book was chocked full of painfully real and extremely funny stories. I was amazed and blessed by how honest they were with us, their audience. There were times when I was just like Oh no, that's so sad! and other times when I seriously laughed out loud. Their story is pretty crazy.
Conclusion:
It was a great book. I would recommend it for people who are in a serious relationship, but I'm sure other people would enjoy it and learn from it as well.
Rating:
I'm giving it four stars.
I received this book from Blogging for Books in exchange for this review.
When Life Hands You Lymes #49
Happy, happy Friday, people!
Welcome to the 49th Friday of the year. That's right. We've already had 48 Fridays in 2014. Crazy, right? (I know, I know, I say that a lot about Fridays!) Anyway, I had fun writing the segment for today's episode of my fiction story, When Life Hands You Lymes and hope y'all will enjoy a little bit of light hearted fun after a few rather serious posts. As always, I'd be delighted to hear feedback. Enjoy!
“Do you think blue or pink works better?” Katie stood in my doorway, holding two bright tote bags, a frustrated expression her her face. I laughed, I couldn’t help it. “What in the world is going on?” I eyed the crazy getup she was in. “Hey! Where did get those sparkly socks? They’re cute.” “Blue or pink.” Katie’s eyes flashed, warning me to just answer her question, but by this time I was laughing so hard I couldn’t get the words out. “Turn around,” I was finally able to gasp out the words. I could tell she didn’t want to, but knowing I would hound her until I got my way, she complied. Seeing Katie all decked out in a half 80’s, half clownish outfit, complete with a tail tacked on made tears come. “Cut it out.” Katie tossed the blue bag at me, I ducked and then wrinkled my nose at her. “What’s going on?” Katie is, well, Katie is professional. She’s not the goofball that I can be by any means. “I think you might have gotten confused.” I gestured at the black dress I still had on from my rehearsal at the Ashburg Symphony. “You’re the one who’s supposed to look like this, I’m supposed to be looking like you right now.” “I know.” Katie leaned against the wall and covered her face with her hand. “I don’t know why I get myself into things like this.” Noticing the stickers on her fingernails, I choked, but didn’t comment about them. “Things like what?” I patted the bed next to me. If you get someone to sit down there’s a better chance they’ll stay and chat and I was having fun with my sister. “So.” Katie waved her hands in the air as if trying to find the right words as she came over and joined me at the side of my bed. “So, you know at church they kept telling us they needed more helpers for the kids program they have set up for tonight. I was free, so I thought, Why not?” Katie pointed at her clothes. “This is why not. I’m not going to have a shred of dignity left if I walk out the door looking like this. Goodness, I’m pretty sure I’m going to need sun glasses to conceal my identity.” I eyed her oversized black sweater with huge flowers pined onto it and then let my eyes trail down to her knee-length extra-full purple poke-doted skirt and then to the baggy pants that had stripes of all colors and sizes running up and down them. And of course the sparkly socks. “Where did you get your outfit?” I wondered if there was a way for me to take a picture without her noticing me, but gave up on the idea. “Abbie.” Now Katie glared at me for real. “Did you set this up with her? Because if you did...” I shook my head, unable to hold back my grin. “No, no. I had no clue.” I snapped my fingers. “I wish I could take some of the credit for it though.” “I wish I could take some of the credit for it though!” Katie mimicked me in a mocking tone, shaking her head back and forth as she went. “Madalyn, I’m pretty sure I’ll fall over dead if I go out in public like this.” “Why didn’t you take the clothes to church and put them on there?” I shrugged. “Madalyn Emerson, where are you when I need you!” Katie thumped her forehead with the heel of her hand. “It’s too late now, though.” “Just wear your long coat.” Katie grabbed me in a hug. “Thank you!” “Now, of course that could look weird since this is a ‘back-to-school’ bash, but really, who cares if people think they’re weird?” “I care.” Katie’s sigh was dejected. “I’ve pretty much shot myself with volunteering for this though, right? “Pretty much.” “You’re sympathetic.” “I’ve learned from the best.” I gave her shoulder a punch. “What are you going to be doing tonight, anyway?” “I’m in charge of the ring toss.” “Ring toss? Like the game that they have at the fair?” “That’s the idea.” Katie buried her head in her hands. “I can’t believe I’m doing this.” I laughed as I jumped up and pulled her off the bed. “Don’t worry, you’ll do fine. Oh, and I’m pretty sure you should carry both bags, they’ll add to your costume.”
Welcome to the 49th Friday of the year. That's right. We've already had 48 Fridays in 2014. Crazy, right? (I know, I know, I say that a lot about Fridays!) Anyway, I had fun writing the segment for today's episode of my fiction story, When Life Hands You Lymes and hope y'all will enjoy a little bit of light hearted fun after a few rather serious posts. As always, I'd be delighted to hear feedback. Enjoy!
“Do you think blue or pink works better?” Katie stood in my doorway, holding two bright tote bags, a frustrated expression her her face. I laughed, I couldn’t help it. “What in the world is going on?” I eyed the crazy getup she was in. “Hey! Where did get those sparkly socks? They’re cute.” “Blue or pink.” Katie’s eyes flashed, warning me to just answer her question, but by this time I was laughing so hard I couldn’t get the words out. “Turn around,” I was finally able to gasp out the words. I could tell she didn’t want to, but knowing I would hound her until I got my way, she complied. Seeing Katie all decked out in a half 80’s, half clownish outfit, complete with a tail tacked on made tears come. “Cut it out.” Katie tossed the blue bag at me, I ducked and then wrinkled my nose at her. “What’s going on?” Katie is, well, Katie is professional. She’s not the goofball that I can be by any means. “I think you might have gotten confused.” I gestured at the black dress I still had on from my rehearsal at the Ashburg Symphony. “You’re the one who’s supposed to look like this, I’m supposed to be looking like you right now.” “I know.” Katie leaned against the wall and covered her face with her hand. “I don’t know why I get myself into things like this.” Noticing the stickers on her fingernails, I choked, but didn’t comment about them. “Things like what?” I patted the bed next to me. If you get someone to sit down there’s a better chance they’ll stay and chat and I was having fun with my sister. “So.” Katie waved her hands in the air as if trying to find the right words as she came over and joined me at the side of my bed. “So, you know at church they kept telling us they needed more helpers for the kids program they have set up for tonight. I was free, so I thought, Why not?” Katie pointed at her clothes. “This is why not. I’m not going to have a shred of dignity left if I walk out the door looking like this. Goodness, I’m pretty sure I’m going to need sun glasses to conceal my identity.” I eyed her oversized black sweater with huge flowers pined onto it and then let my eyes trail down to her knee-length extra-full purple poke-doted skirt and then to the baggy pants that had stripes of all colors and sizes running up and down them. And of course the sparkly socks. “Where did you get your outfit?” I wondered if there was a way for me to take a picture without her noticing me, but gave up on the idea. “Abbie.” Now Katie glared at me for real. “Did you set this up with her? Because if you did...” I shook my head, unable to hold back my grin. “No, no. I had no clue.” I snapped my fingers. “I wish I could take some of the credit for it though.” “I wish I could take some of the credit for it though!” Katie mimicked me in a mocking tone, shaking her head back and forth as she went. “Madalyn, I’m pretty sure I’ll fall over dead if I go out in public like this.” “Why didn’t you take the clothes to church and put them on there?” I shrugged. “Madalyn Emerson, where are you when I need you!” Katie thumped her forehead with the heel of her hand. “It’s too late now, though.” “Just wear your long coat.” Katie grabbed me in a hug. “Thank you!” “Now, of course that could look weird since this is a ‘back-to-school’ bash, but really, who cares if people think they’re weird?” “I care.” Katie’s sigh was dejected. “I’ve pretty much shot myself with volunteering for this though, right? “Pretty much.” “You’re sympathetic.” “I’ve learned from the best.” I gave her shoulder a punch. “What are you going to be doing tonight, anyway?” “I’m in charge of the ring toss.” “Ring toss? Like the game that they have at the fair?” “That’s the idea.” Katie buried her head in her hands. “I can’t believe I’m doing this.” I laughed as I jumped up and pulled her off the bed. “Don’t worry, you’ll do fine. Oh, and I’m pretty sure you should carry both bags, they’ll add to your costume.”
