Julie Arduini's Blog, page 124
June 13, 2015
Sabbath Sunday: When You’re the Purple Tree
When I first saw this picture I focused on the colorful tree on the right. It looked like one of those inspirational quotes “If you can’t stand up, stand out.”
It also reminds me of a talk I had with my oldest years ago. He is a kid with a clear sense of right and wrong. He’s deeply grieved when he sees people choose wrong, especially when it is himself. He realized the name of his school had “Christian” in it, yet he wasn’t seeing the behavior in everyone. He really struggled.
I couldn’t completely remember the verse but I knew it was in 2 Timothy. I told him there’s going to be a time where he’s going to do the right thing.
And he’s going to stand alone.
All the green trees are going to follow the popular choices, the fun ones.
But him, that purple tree, is going to stand on a solid rock and proclaim truth. And even though it will feel like he’s standing alone, he won’t be.
The Lord will always be with him.
I’ve felt like that purple tree—standing out for Jesus—telling others how free it is to live for Him (not easy, free.) Guess what? I often stand alone.
I bet you’ve been there, too.
Guess what?
The Lord will always be with you.
For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. 4 They will reject the truth and chase after myths.
5 But you should keep a clear mind in every situation. Don’t be afraid of suffering for the Lord. Work at telling others the Good News, and fully carry out the ministry God has given you. 2 Timothy 4:3-5

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June 12, 2015
Saturday Confession: The Letter I Imagine Jesus Giving to the Defeated One
Don’t forget! Write Integrity is releasing chapters of Unlikely Merger. Here is Chapter Six plus other posts from the authors.
Saturday, June 13
Write Integrity Press: Unlikely Merger Chapter Six
Marji Laine: Yummy!
Carole Towriss: Talon’s Home Madison Alabama
***
Hey, Defeated One,
Yeah, I know you hate that name. That’s why during my special time with My daughter, Julie, I told her that’s your name. And that you hate it. And that I gave you that name. Because I want My Kids to know the truth.
You’ve been done for a long time.
And it won’t be long before the whole world knows how defeated you are.
But for now you have limited access, but I call the shots.
And one of the things I’ve done is tell my daughters, Julie for one, is that you are the true defeated one who is trying to pass that truth onto them instead. I let you try because when they realize they are not defeated, it’s a great time. For them.
For Me.
For My Kingdom that keeps growing.
You’ve been after my daughters and you’re getting desperate.
You love when people choose bitter over better.
When they refuse to forgive.
When they feel lost and empty and turn to things. Toxic things and people.
When people, even churches, especially churches, twist My Words.
And you love competition.
Families should be for each other.
Women should lift each other up but out of insecurity, you relish when they tear each other down.
But here’s the thing.
I know you have a target on Julie’s back. Remember? You had to ask my permission.
You’ve messed with her head.
Put situations in her path meant for her destruction.
When she’s been physically alone you’ve sent your worst agents to question where I was. If she mattered. If I cared. In that loneliness she has battled rejection, fear and fury. All because I said it was okay.
It’s not okay.
But I allowed it because I can see what you can’t.
I’m going to promote that girl to the next level.
I’m preparing her for things greater than she can imagine.
But you have a little hint, don’t you?
Because you’re that desperate.
You know she’s willing to do whatever I ask.
Her heart beats for Me.
And she’s going to take this season and grow from it.
Tell others about My faithfulness.
And make sure everyone who will listen know you are the defeated one.
Your access to her stops now because I said so.
Release every plan, person, word, curse, thought, agent from hell, idea you have against her and send all your destruction back with you never to rise up and go after her again. You will not be able to speak or move without my say so. Nor can anyone willing to listen to you be able to target her or her family. You and your minions get your hands off her writing, her ministry, her plans to give Me glory.
I’m going to prosper that girl. Her family. Friends. Church. Ministry. Writing. Home.
And it starts now.
—Jesus

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June 11, 2015
Unlikely Merger Authors: If I were the CEO…
Well, the first week of chapters have been released over at Write Integrity. What do you think? If you were Mercy, who would you choose? Remember, more chapters release next week, and then voting begins June 20th. UnIikely Merger releases on Amazon July 1-5 for FREE.
Here is Chapter FIVE PLUS other posts from the authors.
Friday, June 12
Write Integrity Press: Unlikely Merger Chapter Five
Marji Laine: Really, Daddy?
Carole Towriss: Gabe’s Home Space City USA
Fay Lamb: Meet the Heroes of Unlikely Merger: Gabriel “Gabe” Mann
To celebrate, I’ve been sharing posts from the authors regarding business questions. Today’s question is this:
Imagine you are the CEO of your own company. What’s the name, where would it be located, and what would the company provide?
Here’s my answer—Given Entrusted is based in the Adirondacks, that’s probably where I’d be. I love office supplies and journals so I’d have a little store called Surrendered Scribbles with journals, pens, paper, markers and of course books. My blog was Julie Arduini: The Surrendered Scribe, so that’s where I got the name of my imaginary business.
Carole Towriss:
I have no idea what I would provide, but I think it would have to be on a beach somewhere! How about tacos? That sounds good. Now I’m hungry…
Raelee Carpenter:
All I want to do is write, so that’s what my company would provide: my books and stuff. It would be located somewhere where Trader Joe’s stores pop up every mile or so, and the temperature is 68 degrees Fahrenheit year-round.
Marji Laine
Tough question: Mesc’ (pronounced Messy) Designs would be located in Santa Fe and would use local artisans to create silver one-of-a-kind jewelry with precious and semi-precious stones.
Phee Paradise:
My company would provide training in group processes and teambuilding to small organizations that are not looking for a business model. They could be churches, clubs or youth groups. It would be called Training with Paradise. It would be in Orlando and I don’t think I’d travel much.
Jennifer Hallmark:
I know it’s probably not the best decision financially, but I would like to own a chain of bookstores/coffee shops that encourages its customers and had a special section to promote new authors and self-published authors. Also a way to check out ebooks. A book with hot tea and a fresh baked pastry? What could be better? The first store would be in the nearby town of Moulton and would be called “Lattes in the Reader’s Loft.”
Betty Owens:
My imagination would like to put me someplace like Denver or San Diego. I’d like to help flip houses or stage houses for real estate. I’d call it something fun like DayZDoes or DayZCan.

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June 10, 2015
Unlikely Merger Authors: The “Madeline” in Our Lives
How are you enjoying Unlikely Merger so far? Any favorite heroes for Mercy yet? Don’t choose just yet, there are still more chapters to release (or catch up on) at Write Integrity. Remember, voting starts June 20 to choose which hero Mercy should choose. Unlikely Merger will be available on Amazon for FREE July 1-5.
Here is Chapter FOUR plus special posts from the other authors.
Thursday, June 11
Write Integrity Press: Unlikely Merger Chapter Four
Marji Laine: California Dream
Carole Towriss: Ric’s Home America’s Finest City
Fay Lamb: Meet the Heroes of Unlikely Merger: Ric Montoya
To celebrate, I’m taking this week to share thoughts from the authors when it comes to business. Today we talk about a beloved character from Unlikely Merger, Madeline.
Who is your “Madeline” in life? The one who is there with just what you need, gives you a little push when needed, etc…
I have a few Madelines. My family definitely fits the description. My husband and kids are great at lifting me up when I’m down, reminding me things, and jumping in when they know I’m overwhelmed. I have a prayer team that covers my writing and they are precious to me. I also have friends who fill the gaps for me. I’m not crafty, but my friends are. I’d be lost these Madelines.
Jennifer Hallmark:
Probably my daughter Mandy. She does my hair, helps me with clothes and makeup, and is a cheerleader for me to be all I can be.
Betty Owens:
My husband has always been the closest thing to a “Madeline” in my life. He steps in to help whenever I need it. If it’s writing related, I email Fay Lamb.
Marji Laine
I have 3 Madelines and all of them are my daughters. My precious redhead gives me godly advice. Glamour Girl makes sure I look good when I leave the house, and Spunky keeps me both grounded and encouraged at the same time.
Raelee Carpenter:
I have a couple of them, I think. Louise is the one who talks me into doing crazy things I don’t think I can do, and Ash is the one who makes sure I don’t back out just because I’m nervous.
Phee Paradise:
I don’t think I have a Madeline. My father was my cheerleader and Tracy pushes me in my writing career. In my teaching career, I push myself.
Carole Towriss:
I have a couple girlfriends who do that for me, who know when I need a little push and how far they can push me.

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June 7, 2015
Unlikely Merger: Authors Share their Corporate Experiences
Today’s the day! Hop on over to Write Integrity to read the first chapter in Unlikely Merger. We’re releasing a chapter a day and starting June 20, you vote for the hero you want to see win Mercy’s heart. Mercy was one of the women from The Love Boat Bachelor. Now we get to see her back at work on assignment, courtesy of her Dad and Uncle Thomas.
Once the ending is completed Unlikely Merger will be available on Kindle July 1-5 for FREE!
Can you tell we’re excited?
Here’s how to find Chapter One plus other special posts from the authors.
Monday, June 8
Write Integrity Press: Chapter One
Marji Laine: New Job, New Direction
Julie Arduini: Unlikely Merger Authors Share Their Corporate Experiences
Betty Thomason Owens: Introduction to Unlikely Merger
Carole Towriss: Mercy’s Home The Mile High City
Fay Lamb: Unlikely Merger: Behind the Scenes of the Newest Write Integrity Press Multi-Author Novella
I thought I’d join the fun by asking the authors if they ever worked for a corporation and what was the experience like. Mercy wants to please her father and they are a family that keeps Christ first, even above work. That’s not every experience…
Like mine.
I was a temp employee for a corporation that is no longer around where I used to live. At the time the future’s company was shaky and there were a lot of temp workers. I was hired to work in the corporate offices and I was privvy to some of the news that affected the company.
For example, my boss was in the know on what temps were staying or being let go. She said to motivate the factory workers because they weren’t true employees of the company they would tell them that if they did well, they would be hired permanently and receive benefits. Then, when their contract was near up, they would wait until they knew they’d get voicemail and call to announce they were done. The company saved money because they didn’t need benefits. The worker was crushed because most were family men who were depending on that job.
I felt sick when I heard this and even sicker when I walked in the very group calling—my voicemail to tell me I was done. I was single and already had a job so I was happy to leave. But for those families, that bothered me so much.
My other experience was the corporate divide. Because I worked in the Communication Office my boss felt I was white collar and that I should be untouchable to anyone she considered blue collar. Thing was, I had one friend, my dear friend’s husband, who worked in the factory. He was so kind to me and we enjoyed eating lunch together. The boss found out and reminded me I was to associate with my own kind. I ignored her.
I learned fast from that job I was not created for that kind of lifestyle. My husband works in the corporate world and although there are a lot of deadlines and pressure, they seem to treat each other well and care for another. As for me, I’m happy to be on the sidelines and cheer him on.
Here’s what the other Unlikely Merger authors said about their corporate experience:
Raelee Carptenter:
I have, and it was great for quite a well. When the economy went bad, things got a little too cutthroat for my tastes. I’m a lover, not a fighter. *winks*
Betty Owens:
I worked for an engineering firm that was officially a corporation, though not a large one. They bought and merged with our smaller company. I appreciated the new depth of knowledge they brought in, along with the excellent benefits and the raise in pay.
Jennifer Hallmark:
I’ve never worked directly for a corporation, but as chicken farmers, we were part of the Pilgrim’s Pride team. They supplied the chicks and food. We supplied the houses, water, light, heat, fans, etc. We made a good team for twenty years.
Carole Towriss:
I worked for Burger King and Jack-in-the-Box when I was in college, and I worked for a bank for a few years. (Other than that I’ve only worked for schools and churches.) The restaurants, though part of huge corporations, were of course locally owned franchises and quite nice to work in. The bank was also a single branch, family owned, but they played favorites (by department) quite a lot, and the atmosphere wasn’t quite as friendly.
Marji Laine:
Sure, Mary Kay and Close to My Heart, but I was a home office consultant for both.

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June 6, 2015
Sabbath Sunday: When You’re the Purple Tree
When I first saw this picture I focused on the colorful tree on the right. It looked like one of those inspirational quotes “If you can’t stand up, stand out.”
It also reminds me of a talk I had with my oldest years ago. He is a kid with a clear sense of right and wrong. He’s deeply grieved when he sees people choose wrong, especially when it is himself. He realized the name of his school had “Christian” in it, yet he wasn’t seeing the behavior in everyone. He really struggled.
I couldn’t completely remember the verse but I knew it was in 2 Timothy. I told him there’s going to be a time where he’s going to do the right thing.
And he’s going to stand alone.
All the green trees are going to follow the popular choices, the fun ones.
But him, that purple tree, is going to stand on a solid rock and proclaim truth. And even though it will feel like he’s standing alone, he won’t be.
The Lord will always be with him.
I’ve felt like that purple tree—standing out for Jesus—telling others how free it is to live for Him (not easy, free.) Guess what? I often stand alone.
I bet you’ve been there, too.
Guess what?
The Lord will always be with you.
For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. 4 They will reject the truth and chase after myths.
5 But you should keep a clear mind in every situation. Don’t be afraid of suffering for the Lord. Work at telling others the Good News, and fully carry out the ministry God has given you. 2 Timothy 4:3-5

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COTT: Pesto and Potholes by Susan M. Baganz
Poignant romance of two lost souls learning about the things that go
wrong, humanity’s fault lines and how to grow and love again despite the
potholes that inevitably crop up. Baganz manages to throw some laughter and
joy into desperate situations in this debut novel. Read Pesto and Potholes
for a crazy adventure that makes Italian food with a side of Ninja warriors
seem natural.
–Lisa Lickel
[image error]
Pesto & Potholes
by Susan M. Baganz
About the book:
Renata tries to escape her past and runs
straight into . . . love.
Renata Blake has moved to the Milwaukee area to leave behind a painful past
as a victim of abuse. She discovers a family like she’s never had before at
Orchard Hill Church and is drawn to handsome Packer fanatic, Antonio. After
all she’s suffered through, could she ever trust a man again?
Antonio DeLuca has a full life with his family, church and his job as chef
and manager at DeLuca’s Cucina. Having been betrayed in love, he is afraid
to trust a woman again. How would he fit her into his already full life
anyway?
As circumstances draw them together and attempt to tear them apart, life
becomes a combination of savory pesto and painful potholes as both Tony and
Renata learn that with God’s help, and the support of a faith community,
they can both learn to love again.
And maybe fight a few ninjas along the way.
PURCHASE
Amazon
Barnes
and Noble
What COTT Voters Had to Say:
–Susan, I feel so privileged to have had the opportunity to read your
book. Thank you for sharing your talent with us.
–Loving reading this, Susan Bagnanz.
–I’m so excited for you, Susan! Congratulations.
–Going to order this one today, Susan Baganz! Thank you for writing great
books!
–Great job, Susan. Way to go!
–Great cover and great story premise, Susan Baganz.
–Excited about Susan’s book. The title is so intriguing.
–Susan M. Baganz – I like the happy sound of this story!
–Sounds intriguing, Susan Baganz!
–Susan M. Baganz – You are doing great and your stories are so
captivating! Thanks for writing and sharing your gift with
others!
We don’t often get excerpts from
authors,
so enjoy this one from Pest and
Potholes!
Sunday was cold. The sun shined brightly, and Renata sat at church
surrounded by more of the De Luca clan. Tony winked at her, and they
worshipped together. She experienced such joy and freedom in the music and
lyrics. This was the new Renata. Free. Joyful. Loved. What a difference
from a year ago.
After church, she raced home to change into jeans, sneakers, a sweater and
coat. She pulled on knit gloves to keep her hands warm and found a matching
knit cap to put on her head.
Tony arrived to pick her up in his car and they went through the drive-thru
at Taco Bell for something to eat. Renata laughed when part of Tony’s
burrito dribbled onto his sweatshirt.
They arrived at Brown Deer
Park early, and Tony suggested they take a walk over by a small pond.
“This is such a peaceful place.” Reverent awe filled her voice as
she gazed about.
“Sure is, but watch out for the goose doo
doo.”
“Doo doo? Is that an Italian term for poop?”Tony laughed, “No,
that’s me trying to be more delicate since I am with a gorgeous woman in a
beautiful place.”
“Awww, Tony, you are sweet.” They walked side
by side, not touching. Renata could see their breath in the air.
“Edith agrees with you.”
“Edith? My neighbor?” Renata stopped
to stare at him.
“Yeah, the other night she gave me a kiss
because you had neglected to do it for her.”
Renata laughed. “Is
she my competition for your affections?”
“Are you seeking my
affections?” He looked at her with one eyebrow raised.
Renata
looked away. Her entire neck and head grew warm.
“You have no
competition. No one can compare to you.” His voice was seductive to her
ears when he used those words.
“Now you go too far, Tony. I’m
not as perfect as you think I am.” She had to reign this in. She didn’t
want to lead him on.
“Who said you were perfect? Surely not I.”
He placed his hand flat on his chest.
Renata laughed and gave
Tony a playful punch in the arm, but was quickly distracted. She pointed to
the pond. “Look at the geese coming in to land. They look like they are
waterskiing when they put their feet down.”
“Waterskiing geese.
Now I’ve seen everything. What will you think of next, Ren?”
“I
don’t know. I thought it was your turn to be absurd for a while.”
Tony reached out and tickled Renata. “Stop!” She laughed and started
tickling him back and took off running into the grass. Tony ran after her
and with his longer legs managed to catch her causing them both to fall on
the leaf-covered lawn. Renata grabbed a handful of leaves and tossed them
at Tony, and he returned the favor. Soon they lay there in the leaves
giggling and gasping for a breath.
“It is beautiful out here.”
Renata said. “It’s hard to believe this is Milwaukee.”
“It’s
hard for me to believe my good fortune to be sharing this with you.” Tony
looked over to Renata and reached to grab her hand to give it a squeeze.
Renata’s shoulder muscles seized at his touch. The touching, the
laughter, and the sense they were alone in the world without any past or
present or future to worry about, shook her. She needed him too much. No.
She wanted him. She desired him. She looked at his face, so close to hers
and imagined what it would feel like to kiss him. Stop. This has to stop.
No man will ever love you. No man will ever see you as more than a
plaything. The messages bombarded her.
The monsters were
back.
[image error]
About 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. Her favorite pastimes are lazy…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.

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June 5, 2015
Saturday Confession: But I Want the Bedbugs to Bite
Okay, so don’t take the title literally.
I’m thinking of the nighttime ritual I have spoken with the kids as a contest for over ten years. It started with our son, almost 17, and then our daughter, nearly 12.

Circa 2006
“Sweet dreams, don’t let the bedbugs bite, goodbye!”
That’s our thing. We would pray after tucking in, I would shut off the lights, and somehow it became a contest to see who could say this the fastest and first. Somewhere in the contest instead of goodnight someone, probably me, got confused and said goodbye. And there we were.
Night after night, week after week, month after month we said it. When he was on the threshold of teen years I could tell the game was winding down. And I was okay because his little sister was finally able to verbally join in. And the baton was hers.
Last week she was part of a ceremony where she was crowned for completing a three year program in girl’s ministry. She wore her hair in a bun, a fancy dress, got her crown and sash. She turned her head and it hit me.

Circa 2012
I was looking at a young lady.
And whether it was that night or soon after I heard her, exhausted, but still, just say, “Goodnight.”
No sweet dreams. No bedbugs. No goodbye. No contest.
And a part of me felt empty.
Since then she’s kept up with it but I know soon it won’t be the child I’m putting to bed, but our routine.
I’m not quite ready to say goodbye to the bedbugs that is our fun game.
Hey, did you know Write Integrity Press has a new magazine? It’s called Imaginate and it is for readers and writers. The first issue is out and the theme is travel. There is poetry, flash fiction, photography, writing tips and more. Check it out and spread the word!

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June 4, 2015
Michael W. Smith Sovereign CD Winner Announced!
Last week I shared the video for Michael W. Smith’s “Sky Spills Over.” Included in the post was a chance to win a copy of his latest CD, Sovereign!
The winner is…Cindy Regnier!
Cindy, I’m trying to track you down for your mailing address. If you happen to find this post first, contact me at juliearduini@juliearduini.com or message me on Facebook.
Congratulations!!
“Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.
Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win. Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

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June 3, 2015
Unlikely Merger Latest Book from Write Integrity Press Authors
You’ve been asking when the sequel to The Love Boat Bachelor is coming out.
Well, I have some answers. First, let’s admire the pretty cover. Because I’ve read all the chapters but the ending (because YOU get to vote for the hero you want to see in the end) I think it’s a perfect cover.
Okay, June 8th. That’s the day chapters start to release on Write Integrity Press. Follow the chapters AND all the extras that will be available on our pages throughout cyberspace. Tell others. Share links. We want to get a lot of people reading so we have a huge voting turnout. Voting will be later in the month.
THEN…Unlikely Merger will be available on Kindle for FREE July 1-5.Powered By the Tweet This PluginTweet This
We can’t do it without you. Thanks for reading, sharing, voting, and buying our books!

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