Julie Arduini's Blog, page 104
April 20, 2016
Book Review: The Amish Firefighter by Laura V. Hilton
The Amish Firefighter by Laura Hilton.
This is the second part of my Don’t Miss This feature. Yesterday I shared that Laura and I are in the same critique group, so I’m able to see her work firsthand. She’s such a master at Amish romance that what you read as a finished product is pretty much what I see in the critique group.
The Amish Firefighter is available for pre-order, and my review is based on my critique experience.
The Amish Firefighter
Can they overcome their past?
Abigail Stutzman’s life is about to change – whether she wants it to or not. Her mamm is getting remarried to a widower with a large family. Abigail is sent to live with her aenti and onkle in Jamesport because she and her new step-brother had dated and their parents anticipate problems. (Her step-brother is needed on the farm.) Abigail launches a full-scale plan to return home to her family—and Mark—when she finds herself in over her head…and heart. When Abigail and her new “wrong crowd” get into significant trouble, her punishment includes helping a collection of crazy old maids with housekeeping. In the midst of her atonement, Abigail uncovers family secrets that run deep, and realizes she’s not the only one with a pain-filled past. Abigail must decide if she’ll continue her messed-up legacy or embrace a new beginning with the man who’s stolen her heart.
Sam Miller has trouble of his own. When Sam and his close friend Ezra Weiss are in a drug/alcohol-related car accident in Pennsylvania, Ezra is killed. Though Sam survives, he is deeply affected by the tragedy and vows to help other victims. Now a new Christian, Sam is a volunteer firefighter and a college student working to earn his EMT and paramedic license. But Sam has a past. When it comes time to confess his crimes, he finds that the truth may set him free—but it might also land him in some uncomfortably hot water. Will Sam and Abigail be able to find a future together?
As always, Laura delivers a page turner of an Amish romance for readers. The Amish Firefighter is a standout to me thanks to Sam and Abigail’s chemistry. Their conflict starts immediately and between circumstances and attraction, they can’t stay away from each other. Yet, both have their issues that keep the two at arm’s length. I love how Sam calls Abigail “firebug,” and Abigail is a strong character in her own right. There is also the fire aspect, and that only adds to the page turning. All the dynamics are here for a satisfying read. I think this is a must read for summer.
Award winning author, Laura Hilton, her husband, Steve, and their five children make their home in Arkansas. She is a pastor’s wife, a stay-at-home mom and home-schools. Laura is also a breast cancer survivor.
Her publishing credits include three books in the Amish of Seymour series from Whitaker House: Patchwork Dreams, A Harvest of Hearts (winner of the 2012 Clash of the Titles Award in two categories), and Promised to Another. The Amish of Webster County series, Healing Love (finalist for the 2013 Christian Retail Awards). Surrendered Love and Awakened Love followed by her first Christmas novel, A White Christmas in Webster County, as well as the Amish of Jamesport series, The Snow Globe, The Postcard, and The Birdhouse. Other credits include Swept Away from Abingdon Press’ Quilts of Love series. Laura is contracted for another three
book Amish series set in the Jamesport area, with the first book, The Amish Firefighter releasing in May 2016, followed by two more Amish books and a Christmas story releasing in Fall 2016, Spring 2017 and Fall 2017 respectively.
She has self-published a Christmas novella, Christmas Mittens.
Laura is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and a professional book reviewer and blogs for Putting on the New and Seriously Write.
To Purchase:
Amazon
Tags: Amish romance, author, book review, book review the amish firefighter, Book Review: The Amish Firefighter by Laura V. Hilton, fiction, firebug, Julie Arduini, Laura V. Hilton, overcoming, secrets, summer readingDel.icio.us
Digg
StumbleUpon
Comments: 0 (Zero), Be the first to leave a reply!Take a look!
Confession Saturday: You're Invited Character Confession: A Divided Heart Sabbath Sunday: This Isn't Your Average Sunday Saturday Confession: He Knows My Voice Character Confession:How Would You Handle It?Copyright © Julie Arduini: Surrender Issues & Chocolate [Book Review: The Amish Firefighter by Laura V. Hilton], All Right Reserved. 2016.The post Book Review: The Amish Firefighter by Laura V. Hilton appeared first on Julie Arduini: Surrender Issues & Chocolate.
April 19, 2016
Don’t Miss This: The Amish Firefighter by Laura V. Hilton
Julie’s note:
I’m happy to introduce you to another author and book in my “Don’t Miss This” feature. This month I’m excited to highlight Laura Hilton. She’s best known for her Amish romances, and I’ve known her for a few years as we are in the same critique group. Her writing is always full of romance, conflict, and a dash of humor. Look for tomorrow’s post where I review Laura’s latest, The Amish Firefighter.
If you could have dinner with one person from today or history (except Jesus) who would it be? Why?
My mom. I’d like to ask her questions about things I don’t remember and ask her advice about things. I really miss her.
What is your favorite Bible verse?
I have so many favorite Bible verses, it is hard to pick just one. But for today, the one that is coming to my mind is “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” Psalm 46:10 (NIV)
What do you enjoy most about writing?
Almost everything. I love the creating process, getting to know new friends (in my mind) and learning their story.
What can your readers expect from you next? T
he Amish Firefighter is releasing in May and it will be followed by three more Amish books.
What can readers who enjoy your book do to help make it successful?
Review on your favorite online retail sites, tell your friends, libraries, and book clubs, and others about it. Word of mouth is the best way to support an author.
Please tell us a little about your novel, The Amish Firefighter .
The Amish Firefighter by Laura Hilton.
Can they overcome their past?
Abigail Stutzman’s life is about to change – whether she wants it to or not. Her mamm is getting remarried to a widower with a large family. Abigail is sent to live with her aenti and onkle in Jamesport because she and her new step-brother had dated and their parents anticipate problems. (Her step-brother is needed on the farm.) Abigail launches a full-scale plan to return home to her family—and Mark—when she finds herself in over her head…and heart. When Abigail and her new “wrong crowd” get into significant trouble, her punishment includes helping a collection of crazy old maids with housekeeping. In the midst of her atonement, Abigail uncovers family secrets that run deep, and realizes she’s not the only one with a pain-filled past. Abigail must decide if she’ll continue her messed-up legacy or embrace a new beginning with the man who’s stolen her heart.
Sam Miller has trouble of his own. When Sam and his close friend Ezra Weiss are in a drug/alcohol-related car accident in Pennsylvania, Ezra is killed. Though Sam survives, he is deeply affected by the tragedy and vows to help other victims. Now a new Christian, Sam is a volunteer firefighter and a college student working to earn his EMT and paramedic license. But Sam has a past. When it comes time to confess his crimes, he finds that the truth may set him free—but it might also land him in some uncomfortably hot water. Will Sam and Abigail be able to find a future together?
Where can readers find you online?
http://www.amazon.com/Laura-V.-Hilton/e/B004IRSM5Q
visit my blogs: http://lighthouse-academy.blogspot.com/ & http://lauravhilton.blogspot.com/
twitter: @Laura_V_Hilton
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Author-Laura-V-Hilton/161478847242512
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/vernetlh/
Where can readers purchase The Amish Firefighter?
Amazon http://www.amazon.com/Laura-V.-Hilton/e/B004IRSM5Q
Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/laura-hilton?store=allproducts&keyword=laura+hilton
Deeper Shopping http://www.deepershopping.com/index.php?query=laura+hilton&x=0&y=0&module=productsearch&_logmode=Y&querymodule=SPX
Award winning author, Laura Hilton, her husband, Steve, and their five children make their home in Arkansas. She is a pastor’s wife, a stay-at-home mom and home-schools. Laura is also a breast cancer survivor.
Her publishing credits include Patchwork Dreams, A Harvest of Hearts (winner of the 2012 Clash of the Titles Award in two categories), Promised to Another, Healing Love (finalist for the 2013 Christian Retail Awards), Surrendered Love and Awakened Love, A White Christmas in Webster County, The Snow Globe, The Postcard, The Birdhouse, Swept Away, Christmas Mittens, and The Amish Firefighter.
Laura is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, a professional book reviewer and blogs for Putting on the New and Seriously Write.
Tags: Amish romance, author, Don't Miss This: The Amish Firefighter by Laura V. Hilton, firebug, forgiveness, Julie Arduini, Laura V. Hilton, The Amish FirefighterDel.icio.us
Digg
StumbleUpon
Comments: 0 (Zero), Be the first to leave a reply!Take a look!
Sabbath Sunday: No Matter the Waves Book Review: Wounded by God's People by Anne Graham Lotz Thankful for Splickety The Uninspired Chronicles The Joy of Relationships by Staci StallingsCopyright © Julie Arduini: Surrender Issues & Chocolate [Don't Miss This: The Amish Firefighter by Laura V. Hilton], All Right Reserved. 2016.The post Don’t Miss This: The Amish Firefighter by Laura V. Hilton appeared first on Julie Arduini: Surrender Issues & Chocolate.
April 17, 2016
ENTANGLED: Surrendering the Past
So many of you were kind enough to read the original ENTRUSTED and have been so patient. You’ve asked when is the next book coming out? Well, hold on. We are so close to release.
Today, I give you the cover.
ENTANGLED: Surrendering the Past is coming soon!
ENTANGLED: Surrendering the Past is Carla’s story and I’m excited to share it with you. The story dropped in my lap as I prayed about the end of ENTRUSTED. It’s a theme I know well, and I think you might, too. Carla’s been given everything she could possibly want, but she feels she’s unworthy because of a rebellious choice she made years ago.
Carla’s been given her dream, to leave her job as sheriff and attend cosmetology school. The gift is so overwhelming that she struggles with feeling unworthy, especially since she still feels guilty for becoming a mom as a teenager. When Wayne Peterson reenters her and their son Noah’s life, Carla creates some tangles between her and her steadfast boyfriend, the flannel-wearing, truck driver Will Marshall. Can Carla release her past and create a future full of highlights, or, will she burn her options worse than a bad perm?
My hope is to have ENTANGLED available next month, along with the re release of ENTRUSTED: Surrendering the Present. ENGAGED: Surrendering the Future, Trish’s story, should be ready by year’s end.
The critique groups and beta readers who went through ENTANGLED had a hard time trying to guess the ending and how Carla would find freedom through surrender. There were definitely “Team Will” and “Team Wayne” fans, and I look forward to seeing what YOU think.
My hope is to release the ENTRUSTED e version for free for awhile and do so as ENTANGLED: Releasing the Past releases. Do me a favor and grab both copies. Read them, and if you enjoy them, leave a review on Amazon and Goodreads. Reviews are vital for authors, and I can’t encourage audiences to find freedom through surrender if they don’t know what resources I have for them. I truly believe through fiction readers will relate to characters and their surrender journey, and take that next step toward freedom for themselves. Partnering with me by spreading the word and leaving reviews will make all the difference.
FREE resources available now:
Surrender Issues and Chocolate: This is my monthly newsletter filled with encouragement, writing updates, recipes, Reader of the Month profiles, contests and more.
Sunday’s Surrender and Chocolate: This is a brief, weekly email designed to give you encouragement as you start your week. Each issue also includes a chocolate mention.
Surrendered Scribe Media Promotions: When I have a new release, discounts, or any other promotions, I’ll send an alert. This will only be sent when there is a need for you to know.
Tags: Adirondack Mountains, Christian author, contemporary romance, cosmetology, Entangled: Surrendering the Past, fiction, Julie Arduini, paramedic, Surrender Issues and Chocolate, Surrendering Time series, teen parents, truck driverDel.icio.us
Digg
StumbleUpon
Comments: 0 (Zero), Be the first to leave a reply!Take a look!
Second Verse Not Quite the Same as the First Character Confession: The Hidden Pain Confession Saturday: Kathie Lee Gifford's Return to Work Sabbath Sunday: The Windy Road Saturday Confession: When the Well is EmptyCopyright © Julie Arduini: Surrender Issues & Chocolate [ENTANGLED: Surrendering the Past], All Right Reserved. 2016.The post ENTANGLED: Surrendering the Past appeared first on Julie Arduini: Surrender Issues & Chocolate.
April 15, 2016
Entrusted: Surrendering the Present
Entrusted: Surrendering the Present will be re released soon along with Entangled: Surrendering the Past.
Yesterday I announced that Surrendered Scribe Media is now official. My first business related venture is re branding the Adirondack Surrender Romance series into Surrendering Time. Although readers might be familiar with Entrusted, I changed the cover and tweaked the title to reflect the series. So be on the lookout for ENTRUSTED: Surrendering the Present.
Jenna Anderson, sassy city-girl from Youngstown, Ohio, plows–literally–into Adirondack village, Speculator Falls, with a busted GPS and the goal to belong as she becomes the new senior center director. Town councilman Ben Regan is as broken as the flower box Jenna demolished. He’s grieving and wants to shut down the center before there’s too much change and heartbreak. They work on community projects and build a slow relationship, but the council needs to vote on the senior center’s future. Can Jenna show Ben both her and the center are worth trusting?
I love Ben and Jenna’s story because it tackles themes I think we can relate to. Fear. Change. Loss. Their story is over 20 years in the making and they are precious characters to me. Reviews for the original ENTRUSTED were very strong, and I need YOUR help to spread the word.
My hope is to release the e version for free for awhile and do so as ENTANGLED: Releasing the Past releases. Do me a favor and grab both copies. Read them, and if you enjoy them, leave a review on Amazon and Goodreads. Reviews are vital for authors, and I can’t encourage audiences to find freedom through surrender if they don’t know what resources I have for them. I truly believe through fiction readers will relate to characters and their surrender journey, and take that next step toward freedom for themselves. Partnering with me by spreading the word and leaving reviews will make all the difference.
FREE resources available now:
Surrender Issues and Chocolate: This is my monthly newsletter filled with encouragement, writing updates, recipes, Reader of the Month profiles, contests and more.
Sunday’s Surrender and Chocolate: This is a brief, weekly email designed to give you encouragement as you start your week. Each issue also includes a chocolate mention.
Surrendered Scribe Media Promotions: When I have a new release, discounts, or any other promotions, I’ll send an alert. This will only be sent when there is a need for you to know.
Tags: Adirondack romance, Ben and Jenna, Christian author, contemporary romance, Entrusted: Surrendering the Present, finding freedom through surrender, Julie Arduini, Surrender Issues and Chocolate, surrendering the present, Surrendering Time seriesDel.icio.us
Digg
StumbleUpon
Comments: 0 (Zero), Be the first to leave a reply!Take a look!
Character Confession: When God Says No and You Say Thanks COTT: Get a Head Start on Summer Reading Julie Arduini Interviews Ben Regan from Entrusted Speaking from the Heart---The Genuine Blogger Award Character Confession: I'd Drag My Feet but I'd Probably Have to File a ClaimCopyright © Julie Arduini: Surrender Issues & Chocolate [Entrusted: Surrendering the Present], All Right Reserved. 2016.The post Entrusted: Surrendering the Present appeared first on Julie Arduini: Surrender Issues & Chocolate.
Introducing Surrendered Scribe Media
Surrendered Scribe Media is the new journey God has placed me on.
What a year this has been already! I now see why my words for the year are fierce and perspective. It takes fierce determination to surrender my plans for God’s and move forward with them.
Through other transitions (namely my husband announcing his job change that allows him to work from home, something that has evolved from twice a week to every day,) I’ve pushed through fear, doubts and constant hisses from the true defeated one that I’ll never succeed. That I heard God wrong.
Yet, here I am. The state of Ohio now recognizes what I do as Surrendered Scribe Media. Any books I release will be under this name. The speaking I plan to market in the near future will fall under the SSM umbrella.
I went with the cupcake with a bite taken out because many relate to my tagline.
Encouraging you to surrender the good, the bad, and—maybe one day—the chocolate.
I’ll be cheering audiences on as they let go of good things—my writing journey was good but this year God asked me to change it, surrender what I was doing and change course. He’ll ask similar things of you. There’s the bad stuff to surrender—worry, gossip, toxic people/choices. But there’s also those things where you know down the road God will ask you to surrender something, but not today. And if you’re like me and chocolate, you’re happy about that.
Tomorrow I will share the cover for ENTRUSTED: SURRENDERING THE PRESENT, the re release of my first book in the re branded Surrendering Time series, followed by the NEW release, ENTANGLED: SURRENDERING THE PAST. The last book in the series is ENGAGED: SURRENDERING THE FUTURE. I will be including that cover in my bookmarks and business cards, so let me know if you’d like one so you can be one of the first in the know.
It’s a scary time, but it’s an exciting one. There’s nothing that feels better than knowing you are doing what God created you to do. I look forward to partnering with you as YOU find freedom through surrender. I hope the resources I will be offering will encourage you.
FREE resources available now:
Surrender Issues and Chocolate: This is my monthly newsletter filled with encouragement, writing updates, recipes, Reader of the Month profiles, contests and more.
Sunday’s Surrender and Chocolate: This is a brief, weekly email designed to give you encouragement as you start your week. Each issue also includes a chocolate mention.
Surrendered Scribe Media Promotions: When I have a new release, discounts, or any other promotions, I’ll send an alert. This will only be sent when there is a need for you to know.
Tags: author, chocolate, Christian author, DBA, , fierce, freedom, imprint, Julie Arduini, new business, Ohio, perspective, speaker, surrender, Surrendered Scribe MediaDel.icio.us
Digg
StumbleUpon
Comments: 2 comments on this itemTake a look!
Clash of the Titles Reveals Best Death Scene COTT: Chapel Springs Revival by Ane Mulligan Celebrating My Blog Anniversary with a Book Giveaway Sabbath Sunday: Be a Firework What We Do On Misfit IslandCopyright © Julie Arduini: Surrender Issues & Chocolate [Introducing Surrendered Scribe Media], All Right Reserved. 2016.The post Introducing Surrendered Scribe Media appeared first on Julie Arduini: Surrender Issues & Chocolate.
April 10, 2016
COTT: Salsa and Speed Bumps by Susan M. Baganz
One moment of sin leads to a path of pain . . . and unexpected
love.
Welcome to Stephanie and Roberto’s story! They have serious chemistry, but
how many hurdles can they overcome? Both fun and deeply moving, this book
will engage you from the start. Here’s what readers have to say:
Fantastic read. Riveting from cover to cover. Susan has great storytelling
skills that speak volumes. Although the book itself is fiction it did bring
to the forefront the reality and seriousness of human trafficking.
Althea Zamzow (Amazon Review)
This book skillfully handles many issues
in today’s society: date rape, addiction to pain killers, kidnapping, human
trafficking, and the mafia. The well-written story keeps the reader on the
edge of their seat and the book is hard to put down. How much more can
Robbie and Stephanie take before they’re broken apart by life’s
circumstances?
Victoria Pitts Caine (Amazon Review)
Listen in on a conversation from the book:
“Christmas is just around the corner.”
“Really? I hadn’t noticed.”
“Come on, dad and I didn’t do too bad getting a tree up and decorated.”
“You did a fine job. Much better than I could have managed with my bulging
belling getting in the way.”
“I happen to be fond of your bulging belly. Reminds me of Santa Claus.”
“Very funny.” She snuggled up to Robbie’s side. “If you had a wish for
Christmas, what would it be?”
“That forty years from now I would be as in love with you as I am
today.”
Stephanie smiled. “I like that.”
“Did you have Christmas wish?”
“Mine wasn’t big enough.”
“What was it?”
“Really? You will laugh at me.”
“Really, I want to know.”
“I want a puppy.”
“A puppy.”
“Yes, a puppy.”
“We may need to wait awhile for that one. Dogs are not allowed on our
lease.”
“I know, but you asked. Wishes don’t have to be realistic.”
“No, they don’t. But how about I lick your face and pant in your ear. Will
that do in the meantime?”
Stephanie grinned and gave her husband a kiss, “Oh, that will do.”
So where did this story come from?
Susan, can you tell us what inspired you to write Salsa and Speedbumps?
The title was suggested by a friend after I wrote the first draft of Pesto
& Potholes. I hadn’t really thought of writing a second novel but
figured Renata’s roommate, Stephanie, who seemed to have things all
together, might need to have her world shaken up a bit. I also knew someone
who had been a victim of a date rape but those were words not really used
much years ago. She kept the baby, met a great guy, became a Christian and
married after the child was born. He adopted the little girl. And Roberto .
. . well, I had to get some salsa in there somewhere so having a Hispanic
character seemed a good way to do that along with busting some stereotypes
about that culture in the process. Roberto’s back issues . . . well, I’ve
struggled some with that but have known people with far worse pain like
what he experiences . . . so he struggles with an issue many people have
but don’t talk about, intense pain while recovering from an addiction to
narcotics. The story became far more intense than I ever anticipated too
and the heat between Roberto and Stephanie starts to build pretty early in
the story.
The bigger question other than the issues was how does a Christian woman
and man stay true to their faith and have integrity when life throws
curveball after curveball their way. How do they navigate a relationship in
the midst of those trials as well? It was fun to explore.
About the book:
Salsa and Speedbumps by Susan M. Baganz
Stephanie’s life hits a speedbump in the wake of her boyfriend’s sin.
Splitting up with him, she faces a future of difficult choices shaded in
shame. She wants to do what is right but the new man in her life leaves her
fantasizing about a future that is now beyond her grasp.
Roberto finds his heart and professional world turned upside down by the
beautiful bombshell. He struggles with his own inner demons and past so
he’s not about to cast stones. When he is accused of immoral behavior, and
temptation haunts him from every side, can he stand true to the calling God
has given him?
Joining forces to face the future though comes at a high cost for them both
as their individual pasts rise up to destroy them and their relationship.
Integrity comes with a high price tag. With a deep faith in God and the
help of friends at Orchard Hill Church, can they find happiness and love
they long for?
Meet the author:Susan M. Baganz chases after three Hobbits and is a native of Wisconsin.
She is an Acquisitions Editor with Prism Book Group specializing in
bringing great romance novels and novellas to publication. Susan writes
adventurous historical and contemporary romances with a biblical
world-view.
Susan speaks, teaches, and encourages others to follow God in being all He
has created them to be. With her seminary degree in counseling psychology,
a background in the field of mental health, and years serving in church
ministry, she understands the complexities and pain of life as well as its
craziness. She serves behind-the-scenes in various capacities at her church
as well as on the board of the local ACFW (American Christian Fiction
Writer’s) chapter. Her favorite pastimes are lazy ones—snuggling with her
dog while reading a good book, or sitting with a friend chatting over a cup
of spiced chai latte.
You can learn more by following her blog www.susanbaganz.com, her twitter
feed @susanbaganz or her fan page, www.facebook.com/susanmbaganz/me
Tags: author, Clash of the Titles, COTT: Salsa and Speed Bumps by Susan M. Baganz, fiction, Julie Arduini, redemption, salsa and speedbumps, Susan M. BaganzDel.icio.us
Digg
StumbleUpon
Comments: 0 (Zero), Be the first to leave a reply!Take a look!
Video of the Week: Wild Mint Tea by Valerie Comer Memorial Day: The Old Geezer Sabbath Sunday: Waving a Flag but Not Living Free Titanic Reads WFW: Revelation 21:2-4 Welcome to Our Real HomeCopyright © Julie Arduini: Surrender Issues & Chocolate [COTT: Salsa and Speed Bumps by Susan M. Baganz], All Right Reserved. 2016.The post COTT: Salsa and Speed Bumps by Susan M. Baganz appeared first on Julie Arduini: Surrender Issues & Chocolate.
April 9, 2016
Surrendering the End Date
I’ve shared before that I’m a literal person. When I was pregnant with my first, I devoured the books and took the words to heart. When I was in the hospital at hour 17 and uttering, “I can’t do this anymore,” I got excited. To me it meant that I started transition, the 20-45 minute process before delivery marked by feeling you can’t go on.
My transition was nothing like the book. Three hours and an emergency c section later, I wrote my own story.
Our second delivery and her chapters were even more topsy turvy. A jaundiced baby, we had no idea she had congenital hypothyroidism. When the newborn screenings returned, we had her re tested in case of a false reading. Thing was, the diagnosis was real. The receptionist never called us nor looked at her inbox to see the prescription for our child. By the time we were all on the same page, our baby lost 8 weeks of critical medication.
Back then we were sat down and told to prepare for a life with not just developmental delays, but likely retardation. Hypothyroid babies tend to have speech delays. Then, she had setback after setback, so physical therapy started and we were prepared for all kinds of scenarios.
I wanted all the bad news to end.
I was still looking at an end date for her issues when this picture was taken.
Once she left that horrific first year, a lot of things stabilized. She had years of therapies, but when it was time to start kindergarten I remember the Special Ed rep for the local school district asking me what my goals were.
I listed for years that she would reach all these goals and be dismissed in a certain time frame.
We’ve seen such progress. She’s in a mainstream class where her grades are A’s and B’s. She sings and dances through ministries at church. But in the last year or so we’ve added specialists to the doctor cocktail with new diagnoses, treatments, and goals.
This year where we will sit down and talk strategy for middle school, I am finally ready to let go of something I held on with a fierce grip—an end date.
I struggled to define our situation because special needs to me meant there might be no mobility or verbal communication. Perhaps therapies and appointments were daily. That was a season for us. Yet, I also had to come to terms with the need to have an end date for everything. Even with progress, there are struggles. She has trouble on stairs. She can’t ride a bike. There are short term and sequencing issues, along with a lot of physical things we pay attention to. Daily medicines. I had to come to peace that puts us in a special needs umbrella, and that’s okay.
It’s still a challenge. I feel guilty because we are not a family in and out of the hospital or in daily therapies, yet I yearn for a day where there would be no medicines, watching out for things, having appointments and making plans. Unless God chooses to heal her, we will have these things on our plate.
No earthly end date.
And I’m finally okay admitting that.
Tags: Del.icio.us
Digg
StumbleUpon
Comments: 0 (Zero), Be the first to leave a reply!Take a look!
Bethany House Book Review: Kathryn Cushman's Another Dawn You're Invited: Share Your Surrender Story in 2016. COTT: Chapel Springs Revival by Ane Mulligan Character Confession: Why I Don't Stare Character Confession: A Divided Heart Copyright © Julie Arduini: Surrender Issues & Chocolate [Surrendering the End Date], All Right Reserved. 2016.The post Surrendering the End Date appeared first on Julie Arduini: Surrender Issues & Chocolate.
April 4, 2016
Book Review: Back in the Saddle by Ruth Logan Herne
Back in the Saddle by Ruth Logan Herne
The Prodigal Is Coming Home
It’s been a long time since Colt Stafford shrugged off his cowboy legacy for shiny Manhattan loafers and a promising career on Wall Street. But when stock market manipulations leave him financially strapped, the oldest son of legendary rancher Sam Stafford decides to return to the sprawling Double S ranch in Gray’s Glen, Washington. He’s broke, but not broken, and it’s time to check in with his ailing father, and get his legs back under him by climbing into the saddle again.
He doesn’t expect to come home to a stranger pointing a loaded gun at his chest— a tough yet beautiful woman that Sam hired as the house manager. Colt senses there’s more to Angelina Morales than meets the eye and he’s determined to find out what she’s hiding…and why.
Colt’s return brings new challenges. Younger brother Nick has been Sam’s right-hand man at the ranch for years and isn’t thrilled at having Colt insert himself into Double S affairs. And the ranch’s contentious relationship with the citizens of Gray’s Glen asks all the Stafford men to examine their hearts about what it truly means to be a neighbor. And as Wall Street recovers, will Colt succumb to the call of the financial district’s wealth and power—or finally the courage to stay in the saddle for good?
Ah, I’m a sucker for a cowboy romance and BACK IN THE SADDLE doesn’t disappoint. Colt comes back to the Double S ranch after a time away on Wall Street. He didn’t leave under the best of terms with his dad, and his dad isn’t the same. There’s talk about God, his dad isn’t feeling great, and there’s Angelina.
Angelina is the glue that keeps the ranch house running and the Stafford men in line. She has secrets of her own and is torn between where she used to be, and where she is now.
I loved that the author made all the characters strong, not just Colt and Angelina. I loved getting to know Sam, Nick, and the others. There’s a lot of hurt to explore, and I think BACK IN THE SADDLE does it justice. The chemistry between Colt and Angelina is on target, too. It didn’t take me long to read the book, I really enjoyed diving into the romance and the mystery between the characters.
Even if cowboy romances aren’t your thing, I still challenge you to give BACK IN THE SADDLE a try. I really enjoyed it, and I think you will, too.
To purchase BACK IN THE SADDLE, click here.
I received BACK IN THE SADDLE from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Tags: Back in the Saddle, book review, Book Review: Back in the Saddle by Ruth Logan Herne, Christian romance, cowboy romance, Double S Ranch, family, forgiveness, Julie Arduini, law enforcement, Ruth Logan Herne, single mom, Wall StreetDel.icio.us
Digg
StumbleUpon
Comments: 0 (Zero), Be the first to leave a reply!Take a look!
Character Confession: Justice Isn't Julie's, Saith the Lord Book Review: A Date with Death by Ace Collins The Ordinary Life by Leslie Umstattd Book Review: High-Stakes Holiday Reunion by Christy Barritt Hope for Children Who Seethe on Mother's DayCopyright © Julie Arduini: Surrender Issues & Chocolate [Book Review: Back in the Saddle by Ruth Logan Herne], All Right Reserved. 2016.The post Book Review: Back in the Saddle by Ruth Logan Herne appeared first on Julie Arduini: Surrender Issues & Chocolate.
April 3, 2016
COTT: Restored by Tanya Eavenson Wins Clash
Restored
by Tanya Eavanson
PURCHASE
Amazon
B&N
iTunes
About Restored:
Dr. Steven Moore is known nationally for saving lives. If only he could
save his own. Unable to deal with his cancer prognosis, he retreats to a
happier time in his past—to the woman who once stole his heart.
Four years after the death of her beloved husband, bookstore owner
Elizabeth Roberts still struggles to sustain her faith and joy in the Lord
as she raises her two sons. She strives to find a way through her family’s
grief, never suspecting a man from her past might offer hope for her
future.
But how can there be a future when he’s only come to kiss her and says
good-bye?
What COTT Voters Had to Say:
–Enjoy your books so much Tanya! Please continue writing. Such an
inspiration!
–I love the way God unfolded this story for you, Tanya Eavenson. You are
already a winner for sharing His message through your writing.
–What a great storyline, Tanya! Hope you win!
–“Restored” by Tanya Eavenson, is an uplifting and inspiring story that
can be appreciated by everyone, especially when facing a challenge or
struggle in life.
–Love you Tanya!!
–Tanya, enjoyed your first book and Looking forward to reading
“Restored”.
–I am enjoying your book, “Restored”, very much. Tanya Eavenson is a very
inspiring and creative writer. I look forward to reading more of her
books.
–Wonderful story Tanya
–Tanya Eavenson. You are the bomb! Love you!
–Your book is on my must read list Tanya Eavenson!
–All of these covers were beautiful. The premise behind Tanya Eavenson’s
novel is intriguing!
–Can’t wait to dig in to Tanya Eavenson’s newest!
Q&A with Tanya:
Q. Why do you feel inspired to write inspirational Christian
fiction?
A. I believe the Lord called me to write stories for Him. Several
years ago I was diagnosed with cancer and it was a defining moment, not
only dealing with my cancer prognosis, but asking the Lord if He truly
called me to write as I thought or was I mistaken. But through the fears
and searching for God’s direction, I learned He did indeed place this
desire to write on my heart and no matter what I was facing in my life,
that didn’t diminish His call. I’m inspired by the Lord to write
inspirational Christian fiction so people may know the love of Christ. To
know the depth He will go to have a relationship with us. And though we
struggle, He uses us, He uses people like me, the ordinary, to do out of
the ordinary things. Unexpected things—like writing.
Q. What do you hope readers will take away from your
story?
A. I hope readers will take away the fact that God is our hope, our
comfort, and our fortress. He is faithful–when those tough times come, and
they will, He will never leave us. He is the One who gives us hope, a
future, and a peace that transcends all understanding.
I dedicated RESTORED to those whose faith is shaken. To anyone who is
searching. To anyone who needs to believe in the impossible. For as Luke
1:37 says, “For with God nothing shall be impossible.”
About the Tanya:
Tanya Eavenson enjoys spending time with her husband, and their three
children. Her favorite
pastime is grabbing a cup of coffee, eating chocolate, and reading a good
book. Tanya is a
member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Word Weavers International,
and writes for
Christ to the World Ministries. You can find her at her website
http://www.tanyaeavenson.com/
on Facebook,
Twitter, Goodreads,
Google,
or on Amazon.
Tags: books to read, Clash of the Titles, COTT: Restored by Tanya Eavenson Wins Clash, fiction, Julie Arduini, Restored, Tanya EavensonDel.icio.us
Digg
StumbleUpon
Comments: 0 (Zero), Be the first to leave a reply!Take a look!
COTT: Plundered Christmas by Susan Lytekk Featured Video of the Week: Song of the Meadowlark by Sherri Wilson Johnson Thankful Guest Bloggers Needed Book Review: Lynda Schab's Mind Over Madi Sabbath Sunday: Unexpected Snow in SpringCopyright © Julie Arduini: Surrender Issues & Chocolate [COTT: Restored by Tanya Eavenson Wins Clash], All Right Reserved. 2016.The post COTT: Restored by Tanya Eavenson Wins Clash appeared first on Julie Arduini: Surrender Issues & Chocolate.
March 31, 2016
What 46 Looks Like on Me
Each birthday I bite my lip and lead the surrender charge by sharing the most vulnerable parts of my life. I reflect on what the new age looks like on me.
What 41 and 42 Look Like on Me
Well, hello, 46. What stings is for most of 2016, I was looking forward to turning 45. It hit me in March I already was that age, I was zooming to 46. That didn’t feel as fun. That’s closer to 50.
This is another transition season and whether I’m also in a place God has me battling for my destiny or if a mid life crisis is real, boy, has it been a struggle. To look at me, perhaps it’s not as visible. But battling negative mindsets and fighting off temptations that I know will set me back has been a tiresome time.
If you read here often you know earlier this year I felt God’s strong nudge to make a change with my writing and take things as an indie author and speaker. I’ve re branded what I do to include everything under Surrender Issues and Chocolate. Whatever I write will encourage audiences to find freedom through surrender. My fiction includes chocolate mentions, as do my weekly email and monthly newsletter. I’m close to unveiling the covers to my Surrendering Time series—ENTRUSTED: Surrendering the Present (re release,) ENTANGLED: Surrendering the Past, and ENGAGED: Surrendering the Future. I’m so excited to share these characters and their surrender stories with everyone. The next step will be marketing hard on the aspect that I’m available to encourage audiences through speaking. So my to-do list is daunting.
My husband also took on a new position where he no longer develops computer programming but teaches. He’s a natural teacher and loves it, but it also means he’s able to work from home. At first he was going to go in a few days a week. It’s changed so much that he is usually here every day. The adjustment has been seemless for him. Me? I have struggled. A textbook introvert, I crave space and quiet. I need it like air. And although hue has an office and is tucked away most of the day, I’ve had to adjust to his presence. I’d love to say 46 looks mature on me, but in transparency, I’ve had to fight selfishness to want “my” house back sometimes on an hourly basis.
Our son graduates in May and what a ride it has been. In December he was accepted to Kent State and he will be commuting as he studies education. He is on a quest for his own relationship with Christ, not just tagging along with what we believe. He pressed in prayer for a job and at the 11th hour when it looked like nothing was turning up, he received an offer that gives him steady hours. We still watch Vines and Jimmy Fallon but I was surprised at the grief I’m feeling. We are kindred spirits. He “gets” me and I cherish our chats. I realize from here on in, they won’t be as often.
On the other hand, I am enjoying more girl time with our daughter. She is a daddy’s girl and that bond was so strong it was actually an issue. These days she is balancing her time more, seeking me out when she has questions. But because I manage medicines and behavior, I still get the eye rolls. Her health has had changes and surprises, taking me back to basic faith where I lean hard on Jesus and trust He has our backs.
This year brings about our 20th wedding anniversary and my step-son’s wedding. He was ten when we married, so this is so surreal to me. Wasn’t I just 26??
What 46 looks like on me—a freefall in faith.
My body and mind say no. My back aches. My hair turns white two weeks after I color it. I forget names and what I was doing. I used to know cultural things to stay on top of what the kids might be into, but watching some teen award show, I had no idea who the acts are. My picture is from Snapchat, a social media app that teens dominate but the marketing I study says it is a great way to connect with readers. So here I am, trying to understand and be relevant. When every whisper at night says relevant is the last thing I am or do.
My 46 feels like two steps from a freefall, but I’m start enough to cling to the rock of Jesus and not the sand of the world.
Hey, 46. Let’s do this.
PS
If you’re on social media, find me @JulieArduini. I’d love to connect
Tags: family, Julie Arduini, middle age, reflection, snapchat, transition, What 46 Looks Like On MeDel.icio.us
Digg
StumbleUpon
Comments: 0 (Zero), Be the first to leave a reply!Take a look!
OAC: The 2015 John Avery Whittaker Award Hope for Children Who Seethe on Mother's Day COTT: Rebekah's Treasure by Sylvia Bambola Sabbath Sunday: New Roads Featured Video of the Week: Stranded by Dani PettreyCopyright © Julie Arduini: Surrender Issues & Chocolate [What 46 Looks Like on Me], All Right Reserved. 2016.The post What 46 Looks Like on Me appeared first on Julie Arduini: Surrender Issues & Chocolate.
