Happy New Year!!

From me and mine to you and yours ;)

I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas!!!

I'll be back after the holidays to my regular blogging schedule. Right now I'm in urgent get-rid-of-the-wrapping-paper-and-boxes-and-organize-the-presents-and-somehow-get-this-five-lbs-off-my-thighs mode ;)

Merry Christmas!!

Merry Christmas to you and yours...from me and mine :)

Have yourself a Lifetime Christmas...

So I totally succombed yesterday and watched a Lifetime Christmas movie. Usually I avoid these because they're SO predictable and corny and cheesy and all those other food words ;)

But this one was pretty cute. It starred Haylie Duff and was titled "All About Christmas Eve". The premise was Eve, a career-ladder climbing party planner, takes an assignment in Los Angeles for her shark-minded boss. If she pulls off this party, she gets the promotion she's always wanted. The story splits into two segments then, and shows what happens if she makes the plane, and what happens if she doesn't. Almost like a Choose Your Own Adventure book.

I bet it'd have been better as a book, actually.... ;)

Speaking of books...

Guess what? Got my cover art for my April 2013 Love Inspired release!! What do y'all think?

Scribble Chicks!

Visit me today on Scribble Chicks!

I'm only going to say this once more...

...and I'd love your comments/thoughts/opinions!

I posted this on FB the other day regarding the tragic news in Connecticut.

"I tried to say this on someone's picture but their privacy settings didn't allow it. So I'm coming here now. All these pics going around about the letter signed by God stating He isn't allowed in schools - this bothers me. At first I agreed and I still see the point - but its just not true. God hasn't forsaken government buildings. He IS still inside schools because the Holy Spirit resides inside the believers walking the halls. These pics to me give the unfortunate impression that God is either standing back with arms crossed in "I told you so" - inaccurate! Or worse, helpless. How in the world does anyone "allow" God to do anything? Also inaccurate impression. I think these pics are doing more harm than good. Personal opinion! It feels almost as if we're trying to make excuses for God by posting these things. He doesn't need our help in answering this. Its not our job to do that, we DON'T have answers. He does."

Within 24 hours after posting the above, it had 84 "likes". I had no idea so many people would agree with me, due to how many pictures I saw of that very thing I was "protesting". I had almost expected and braced for some backlash.

What do you think? Please be honest! :)

Silver linings

This past weekend Little Miss was sick - like, Velocity Care, 104 fever, vomiting, no appetite, coughing/congested/sneezing sick. And all I could think was "better this weekend than next, right before Christmas!"

There's always a silver lining, even in those "holding her hair back over the trashcan" moments :)

Hope your weekend was better than mine! ;)  Here's to a healthy, fun, pre-Christmas week!  What are your plans to celebrate the coming holiday?

A Time to Give...

I'm pleased to welcome author JILL WILLIAMSON here on my blog today. She's got a great post and an important announcement/cause you can contribute to if you'd like this holiday season.

Author Bio:

Jill Williamson is an author of all things weird. She grew up in Alaska with no electricity, an outhouse, and a lot of mosquitoes. Her Blood of Kings trilogy won two Christy Awards, and she recently released Replication, a science fiction teen novel from Zonderkidz. Jill lives in Oregon with her husband and two children and a whole lot of deer.

Guest post by Jill:

In case you haven’t noticed, it’s almost Christmas! I love Christmas. I wanted a Christmas wedding. I wanted to carry a bouquet of poinsettias, I wanted a Christmas tree where people could put the wedding gifts, I wanted hooded cloaks for me and my bridesmaids to wear, and I wanted to leave the reception in a one horse open sleigh.

Alas, I got married in June. But if I could travel back in time, I’d tell myself to do it anyway. Nothing better than Christmas in June, right?
Christmas makes me think of giving. I’m a writer. And writers have a unique opportunity in the giving department. Whenever a person opens one of our books, it’s like we’ve been invited into their home to speak to them. It’s precious. And humbling. Like Spiderman learns: “With great power comes great responsibility.” Writers are charged with doing our jobs well, and respecting the power we are given. And it’s a gift that publishers and readers give to us too. I’m thankful for that.
I recently learned that some dear friends of mine were trying to adopt a girl from Eastern Europe. Adoption is expensive, and until they raise over $40,000, little Sydney can’t come home. Just learning about their desire to adopt and the fact that they’ve been unable to have children of their own put tears in my eyes. I wanted to help. But I don’t have much extra money right now. Plus it’s Christmastime, and we wrecked our van hitting a cow. (We live in free range territory.) So what could I possibly give?

Sydney—soon to be—Haydon
Well, whoever said the only way to give was by donation?

So, I self-published an enovella, which means short ebook. It’s book length is 120 pages. Of course, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Kobo will keep their cut, but 100% of my proceeds will go toward Sydney’s adoption!

Many things had to fall into place for this to happen, and many have given to Sydney’s cause already. Jeff Gerke gave me permission to do this project when Marcher Lord Press holds the rights to my storyworld. In doing so, he also gave up his right to make money off the story. Kirk DouPonce donated a cover, and teens from his church volunteered to model. Rebecca LuElla Miller, the freelance editor I hired, gave me a big discount on editing. As did Kerry Nietz on ebook design. My agent, Amanda Luedeke, waived her right to her 15%. And Chris Kolmorgen had an hour-long, (midnight for me, 2:00 a.m. for him) brainstorming session with me, helping with some last-minute content editing.

The result is Chokepoint: Mini-Mission 1.5. This project is part of The Mission League series with Marcher Lord Press. It takes place after book one and before book two, but reads good on its own too. Here’s a little bit about the project:

Ever since I returned from Moscow, life is a full court press. Mission League field agents are everywhere. All the time. Watching. Waiting for me to fulfill a sixty-year-old prophecy. When some baddies try to guy-nap me, the field agents threaten to move me and Grandma Alice to some random hick town, to give us new fake identities until the prophecy is fulfilled.

Not going to happen.

I’ve got one chance to stay in Pilot Point. I have to prove to the agents that I can stay safe. Have to make this work. For basketball. For Kip. For Beth.

So, bring it, baddies. It’s game on.

100% OF THE PROCEEDS FROM THIS ENOVELLA GO TOWARD THE ADOPTION OF LITTLE SYNDEY FROM EASTERN EUROPE. PLEASE, HELP BRING SYDNEY HOME.

Chokepoint is $2.99 and is available on Kindle, Nook, or Kobo. All the proceeds go to Sydney’s adoption.

Click here to view Chokepoint: Mini-Mission 1.5 on Amazon Kindle

Click here to view Chokepoint: Mini-Mission 1.5 on B&N Nook

Click here to view Chokepoint: Mini-Mission 1.5 on Kobo

And click here to visit Kevin and Wendy’s blog Haydon Family Growing’s On. to learn more about their adoption adventure.

How about you? Do you do something to give to a cause each year? What are some other ways you give? Please share in the comments! :)

Making a list...checking it...three times? Four?

What's on your Christmas list? How many people do you buy for each year? How do you draw the line in where to stop? Do you set budgets for each person on your list?

It seems each year the list gets longer and longer, and therefore demands more and more money - but I've discovered homemade gifts go a long way toward friend-gift-exchanges. I did a bunch of modge podge crafts this year and had SO much fun doing it! I'll post some pics after Christmas when it won't be a spoiled surprise ;)    It's fun to make and so personalized - perfect for a friend you care deeply about but can't drop another $10-40 bucks on this season.

I'm down to needing to purchase ONE more gift card, and then - I'm officially done shopping. YAY!!!

Now to wrap...

(not to be confused with rap. ha)

Scribble Chicks

Visit me today at SCRIBBLE CHICKS and come talk about fiction craft writing :)
Us CHICKS are there to answer any questions you have about publishing, the fiction industry, writing, etc.

http://www.scribblechicks.blogspot.com

See ya there!

Giveaway palooza

Want to win a free autographed copy of ADDISON BLAKELY, CONFESSIONS OF A PK? Just in time for Christmas? :)

Enter to win:

http://christiswrite.blogspot.com/2012/12/interview-giveaway-with-betsy-st-amant.html

PS - this chick is fabulous. I had such a fun time with Tessa. The girl gives a great interview and her blog is inspiring, sweet, and fun  :)

The question that strikes fear....

This time of year, fewer things strike fear into the hearts of women (other than the scale, of course) than the following question:

Have you finished your Christmas shopping yet?

Dun dummm dummmmm...

I haven't. Have you? (I'm staying off the scale, too! ha!)

Girls, God and the Good Life!

Visit me today at GIRLS, GOD and the GOOD LIFE :)

http://www.girlsgodgoodlife.blogspot.com

I have to know...

...what is your favorite Starbucks holiday drink?

Gingerbread Latte

White Chocolate Mocha

Peppermint Mocha

Pumpkin Spice Latte

Caramel Brulee Latte

Eggnog Latte

(and are there any on the above list I should avoid? LOL I haven't tried them all yet. I just love my white chocolate mocha so, so much... I think the Caramel Brulee is next)   :)

Christmas tunes

What's your favorite Christmas song?

My Little Miss would vote for Frosty the Snowman, Jingle Bells, or I Want a Hippopotamus For Christmas.

I'm actually quite fond of the latter myself ;)

And if the Alvin and the Chipmunks song comes on the Christmas radio station, I don't change it. hehe.

But my favorite remains O Holy Night. It's one of those best sung while driving in the car or in the shower, where you can belt it full out, alone, and make that joyful noise. Thank goodness that's all the Bible requests ;)  The lyrics never fail to make me teary, year and year again.

What song moves you at Christmas? Or is your favorite lighthearted, fun song to enjoy while driving to work or wrapping gifts or baking cookies?

Are your characters in a box?

Visit me today at SCRIBBLE CHICKS. Are your characters in a box?

www.scribblechicks.blogspot.com

Modge Podge palooza

So I recently got into Modge Podge (a clear, sealant type of glue that is awesome for craft projects!) and have been making Christmas gifts like Martha Stewart fresh out of prison. Oh wait. ;)  That's probably not funny. But it made me snort.

Anyway.

Do you make Christmas gifts? Or do you purchase everything? Or do you do a little of both? What do you make, if so? I'd love more ideas, not that I have time (or talent) to do them. My modge podge projects are doing pretty well and I'm still holding my breath every time I start painting that glue. Crafty, I am not. But I've been impressed at how fun and easy it is! :)

Have you ever modge podged? (I especially love that its a verb now. hehe)

Tis the season to bake

Since it's December now (well, it's the excuse, anyway) I'm totally thinking of Christmas cookies.

What are some of your favorite recipes for this time of year? Share share share! I'm hosting our Sunday School Christmas party this weekend and would love some fresh ideas. (that are easy. Remember, my middle name is not Martha Stewart. It's not even Mary Smith or anything even close to Martha. ha)

Or... do you just store buy before the big party and head out? ;)

Just in case you forgot...

To review or not to review...

Question today for readers and other authors alike - do you post book reviews?

If so, do you post them for every book you read, or just the ones you love, or just the ones you hate? Do you post reviews in exchange for free books from a publisher? Or do you post reviews from books you purchase? Or both?

And where do you post reviews, if you do? Amazon, B&N, your personal blog, facebook? Why do you choose the site you choose?

I'm just curious and gaining data on the topic for today. I'd love any feedback at all! :)

Scribble Chick palooza

Visit us today at Scribble Chicks to learn more about the craft of writing! We're always taking questions by the way, so if you have a craft question or writer/writing related question at all, come on over and ask!

http://www.scribblechicks.blogspot.com

It's the most wonderful time of the year...but not for my pants

It might be the most wonderful time of the year, but my jeans are totally not agreeing!

Anyone have any tips for scaling down during the holiday dessert blitz? I'm a SUCKER for desserts/sweets during Thanksgiving/Christmas. If it's there, I want to eat it. It's like leftover Halloween candy - an evil, deplorable temptation that must be succumbed to or thrown away. "Flee the devil" and such ;)

I've read articles that gave tips like suggesting a contrasting color plate will help you eat less. And putting your back to the buffet line. And using a dessert plate for meals. (um, wouldn't this just make you go back 3 times instead? hehe) Anyone thinks these tips actually work? Or am I just going to have to get old fashioned with discipline and say "no, I really DON'T need 395 cookies after all, even if they do have sprinkles and icing?"

Help a gal out!

Free books over here!!!

I'm trying not to overly cross promote my two blogs, but I'd really like for you to come over today and see me at Confessions Behind the Mask (http://www.writergetsreal.blogspot.com) and get real with Liz Johnson, a fabulous author and godly woman who is giving away TWO novels. Just leave a comment to enter! Free Christmas gifts, folks. Free Christmas gifts. ;)   She also contributed a wonderful, inspiring post I know you'll relate to. Come see us and sign up to win!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy turkey day! And uh pumpkin pie day! And oh yeah cranberry sauce day! And green bean casserole day!! And my-mom's-famous-tea-cake-cookies-with-powdered-sugar-icing-that-we-only-get-on-holidays-because-they're-such-a-headache-to-make day!!! :)

YAY!!!!

And happy gratitude day :)

Scribble Chicks and pet peeves

Visit me today at http://www.scribblechicks.blogspot.com while we talk about our biggest pet peeves in writing!

Do you like hunky Navy Seals?

Hmmm. I think my subject title sounds a little like a SPAM email. HAHAHA. Oops ;)

Seriously though, Liz Johnson's newest Love Inspired Suspense, A PROMISE TO PROTECT, has a hunky Navy Seal and soooo much more - relatable, three dimensional characters you immediately connect with, a side of quirky, realistic side characters that move the story forward, an excellent suspenseful plot with surprises, and plenty of romance.

I loved how Liz incorporated the Navy Seal "lingo" so naturally into the story, but in a way us civilians could still understand. It really gave the book a unique and interesting edge and showed how much she did her research.

About the book:

Navy SEAL Matt Waterstone knows about keeping people safe. When his best friend's sister is attacked, Matt promises no harm will come to Ashley Sawyer—not on his watch. But Matt's not the only protective one. Ashley will do anything to safeguard the residents of the battered women's shelter she runs. She's sure she can handle the threats she gets in return. What she can't handle is the way Matt scales the walls around her heart. Yet when she falls prey to a crime web far more sinister than she'd realized, trusting Matt could be the only way to survive….

This is one great story you definitely don't want to miss :)  The official release date is November 27th and your local Wal-Mart just might have it on the shelf a day or two early as they're known to do. The perfect, affordable, holiday read for your own shelf or to add to a Christmas gift. :)

Liz is a friend of mine and a talented writer. Check out her back list too at her website!

http://www.lizjohnsonbooks.com/

Sophia the first

This week is Thanksgiving and I'm starting the week with an attitude of gratitude. :)

Many on Facebook are doing a countdown every day of November until Thanksgiving with things they are thankful for. I haven't done that to date but it has made me pause and think of my blessings more than usual.

Today, one of the many things I'm thankful for is Sophia the first - the adorable Disney movie that premiered last night that my daughter had been eagerly awaiting for a month! We got to snuggle in the chair in PJ's and watch it together, and I didn't take a single second of it for granted. She was enthralled and I was content and it was a great night. The kind of moments that slip past if we don't stop to take them in, especially with our kids....wow.

What are you thankful for?

Catch more lessons in gratitude over at http://www.writergetsreal.blogspot.com today :)

I'm featuring author Cathy West on my new blog today over at http://www.writergetsreal.blogspot.com
If you've ever dealt with rejection, in or outside the writing industry, you don't want to miss this post. Come get real with me and Cathy! :)

Grace & Politics

So yesterday I sort of got myself in trouble on Facebook because in a rare moment, I vented about something political/spiritual. Should have seen that coming! I learned my lesson - not necessarily that I shouldn't ever share my opinions or views, but that I need to get ALL the facts straight, and need to pray before posting even if I'm well versed on the topic.

Basically, I vented about the Hobby Lobby controversy - you know, how they're being forced (along with other Christian businesses) to increase their insurance policies to include the morning after pill for employees. I've read a lot about the morning after pill over the past few years, and believed it to be the equivalent of an abortion pill.

http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/lookout/hobby-lobby-sues-obama-administration-over-contraception-mandate-165356562.html

However, I was provided with a ton of info that actually contradicted that view. Some believe that to be true but medically/technically, the morning after pill is PREVENTATIVE. Not a "fix" if you're already pregnant from the night before. In essence, it's like a super big dose of a birth control pill.

Hobby Lobby said they were not opposed to birth control, but opposed to the morning after pill. They apparently see it differently. I guess it boils down to when you believe life is conceived.

Now there's FB sites dedicated to a Hobby Lobby boycott from upset women. I'm now wanting to spend ALL my money at Hobby Lobby because I'm so proud of them for standing up for their faith.

I'd love your opinions on this hairy topic! How do you see it?
(it's also really hard to trust 100% any news article you read on any topic lately, because it's so slanted)

Visit me today at Scribble Chicks!

Visit me today at Scribble Chicks and read some fiction craft tips on writing the opposite gender's POV (point of view) scenes.

www.scribblechicks.blogspot.com

Thanksgiving festivities

Apparently Thanksgiving is a big deal at preschool ;)

This week my Little Miss has a Thanksgiving feast, complete with wearing paper Pilgrim/Indian oufits (Are they still saying Indian in schools these days? Or is that not PC anymore? I guess it's Native Americans. Been really confusing trying to explain to her who Columbus is vs "but weren't the Indians there first?" Haha, leave it to the four year old to dive into the biggest debate in American history ::wink::), Turkey crafts, lessons in thankfulness, and...she got to disguise a turkey. 

Yep. They each had a turkey coloring page to design a disguise for, so the turkey wouldn't get gobbled up for Thanksgiving. It was hilarious. One student made hers into a Pinkalicious character (do you know those children stories?) another was a bat, and of course, Little Miss made hers into a Princess. It was quite glamorous. 

How fun! :)  I'm telling you, a week of "adult preschool" would probably bring world peace. I mean, really. Crafts. Snacks. Naps. Lessons in sharing and gratitude. Do you see my point?

What's your favorite part of Thanksgiving? Besides the pumpkin pie because that's just, like, a given ;)

Happy Veteran's Day!

On behalf of my Marine Granddaddy and a host of other friends in the military - 

HAPPY VETERAN'S DAY!!! 

God bless the troops :)

One of the best books I've ever read.

This was one of the best books I've ever read.

I know that's a bold statement, but seriously. I know part of it is due to the fact that Jim is a talented author, the story was suspenseful and driven and entertaining, and well written - but it was also largely due to the fact that I'm going through a personal storm right now that really related for me, so the content of this story is dear to my heart and urged me on in a way I needed - in a way God knew I needed. Such a blessing.

Let me assure you, God is using Jim Rubart in the fiction industry, and you really don't want to miss this story. I can't wait for the rest of the series. I hope you give it a chance, even if it's not your typical genre :)

Book Info

About Soul's Gate:    Book 1 in the Well Spring series. "Every now and then we get a break from reality. A glimpse into the other world that is more real than the reality we live in 99 percent of our days. The Bible is about a world of demons and angels and great evil and even greater glory." What if you could travel inside another person's soul? To battle for them. To be part of Jesus healing their deepest wounds. To help set them free to step boldly into their divinely designed future. Thirty years ago that's exactly what Reece Roth did. Until tragedy shattered his life and ripped away his future. Now God has drawn Reece out of the shadows to fulfill a prophecy spoken over him three decades ago. A prophecy about four warriors with the potential to change the world . . . if Reece will face his deepest regret and teach them what he has learned. They gather at a secluded and mysterious ranch deep in the mountains of Colorado, where they will learn to see the spiritual world around them with stunning clarity-and how to step into the supernatural. Their training is only the beginning. The four have a destiny to pursue a freedom even Reece doesn't fully fathom. But they have an enemy hell-bent on destroying them and he'll stop at nothing to keep them from their quest for true freedom and the coming battle of souls.   Link to buy the book: http://ow.ly/eGyGA   Meet Jim: James L. Rubart is a professional marketer, speaker, and writer. While being the owner of Barefoot Marketing certainly keeps him on his toes, his passion is writing fiction. Rubart is an ECPA best-selling author who has been positively reviewed by both Publisher's Weekly and Romantic Times. His first novel,Rooms, won a Best Books 2011 award from USA Book News, as well as a Romantic Times Book Reviews Reviewers Choice Award. His debut release was followed by Book of Days and The Chair. Soul's Gate is Rubart's fourth release. In addition to being an author, Rubart is also a photographer, guitarist, professional speaker, golfer and semi-pro magician. With all of this, he says that he barely sleeps. Rubart lives with his wife and sons in the Pacific Northwest. Find out more about Jim at http://jimrubart.com/.    ***To save the photos above to use on your blog, please right click on the photo and "save as".

Blog Tour Schedule

Landing page: http://litfusegroup.com/author/JRubart Win an iPad Mini from @JimRubart and RSVP for his Live Video Chat {11/13}! The first book in best-selling author Jim Rubart's new series, Soul's Gate, releases on November 6th! To celebrate, Jim has teamed up with his publisher, Thomas Nelson, for a virtual book tour, iPad Mini giveaway and a Live Video Author Chat {11/13}. Watch the video trailer for the book here.   One "soulful" winner will receive: A brand new iPad Mini Soul's Gate by Jim Rubart {Be caught up in this captivating series.} Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on November 12th. Winner will be announced at the "Soul's Gate Author Chat Party on 11/13. Connect with Jim for an evening of book chat, trivia, and a live video chat! There will also be a chance to win gift certificates, books, and other fun prizes! So grab your copy of Soul's Gate and join Jim on the evening of the November 13th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book - don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 13th!

WOW!

Please come read my big praise report on www.writergetsreal.blogspot.com today :)

Fall fun

Take this fall fun quiz here: http://www.blogthings.com/whatpumpkintreatareyouquiz/

My results: (Yeah pretty much....)

PUMPKIN LATTE (mmmmm)

You are energetic and fun loving. You get into the spirit of every season, but fall is definitely your favorite time. You are excited for the change of seasons, and you love the spirit and togetherness it brings. You love to do everything related to fall - whether it's celebrating Halloween and Thanksgiving or going to check out the changing leaves.You truly immerse yourself in the season. You always miss autumn when it's gone, but you make the most of it while it's here. 

What'd you get? Yay for Autumn!!!

Another winner from Bethany House

Book Info

About Courting Cate:  When This Couple Gets to Courting, Sparks Will Fly! In Paradise, Pennsylvania, Cate Miller is known more for her sharp tongue and fiery temper than her striking appearance. Her sweet and flirty sister, Betsy, on the other hand, seems to have attracted most of the bachelors in Lancaster County! But the sisters' wealthy father has made one hard-and-fast rule: older Cate must marry first, before younger Betsy can even start courting. Unfortunately, untamable Cate has driven away every suitor-until Pete Treger comes to town, that is. Prodded by the men of the area, Pete turns his attention to winning Cate's hand. But is his interest true or is there a scheme at play? Book 1 in The Courtships of Lancaster County series.  Link to buy the book: http://ow.ly/eSNfb  Meet Leslie:   Leslie Gould is the co-author, with Mindy Starns Clark, of the #1 bestselling The Amish Midwife and The Amish Nanny. She is also the author of numerous novels, including Garden of Dreams, Beyond the Blue (winner of the Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice for Best Inspirational Novel, 2006), and Scrap Everything. She holds an MFA in creative writing from Portland State University and has taught fiction writing at Multnomah University as an adjunct professor. She resides with her husband and four children in Portland, Oregon.  Learn more at www.lesliegould.com.

Blog Tour Schedule

Landing page: http://litfusegroup.com/author/LGould My review: This was like an Amish version of the movie 10 Things I Hate About You ;)  Remember that teen flick? hehe. Anyway, this was a really fun, insightful read that reveals a lot about a culture many of us still  view as a mystery. I admit I haven't been a huge fan of Amish fiction in the past but my thoughts there are changing, especially after novels like this one! :)   Leslie's fresh, realistic writing style, and her whimsical, intriguing dialogue make this a fast read! So give it a try - you won't be disappointed! **I received this book for free from the publisher  in exchange for an honest review ** BUT WAIT - there's more :) Kindle Fire Giveaway from @LeslieGould! RSVP for Facebook Party {11/20} POST CODE: A retelling of the Taming of the Shrew! Leslie Gould is celebrating the release of Courting Cate with a fun Kindle Fire Giveaway and a Facebook Author Chat Party (11/20)! One lucky winner will receive: A Kindle Fire Courting Cate by Leslie Gould Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on November 19th. Winner will be announced at the "Courting Cate" Author Chat Facebook Party on 11/20. Connect with Leslie, get a sneak peek of her next book, try your hand at an Amish trivia contest, and chat with readers just like you. There will also be gift certificates, books and a Book Club Prize Pack to be won (10 copies for your book club or small group)! So grab your copy of Courting Cate and join Leslie on the evening of the November 20th for a chance to connect with Leslie and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book - don't let that stop you from coming!) Don't miss a moment of the fun, RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 20th!

A day in the life of...

In case you were wondering...

This is the life of an author - I sit down to finally write today after voting, grocery shopping, preparing a crock pot dinner, and playing outside with Little Miss, and realize I've lost my thumb drive. 

After a half hour or more of mass panic, desperate searching, frantic phone calls, name calling (about myself) and Little Miss following me around speaking gloom ("I think its gone forever Mama") 

I finally find it in a random pocket of my purse. I look up in glee only to see Little Miss holding a glow-in-the-dark bracelet, purple sparkle gel smeared across forehead and clumped over her lip like a little Hitler mustache, standing atop glowing carpet. "Mama I think there's a leak." 

Why yes. I concur.

A few links to share :)

A few links to share this week:

First of all, I hope you'll visit me WEDNESDAY at Scribble Chicks. http://www.scribblechicks.blogspot.com

Also, my monthly column for Nicole O'Dell's Choose Now ministry is live NOW. View it here: http://nicoleodell.com/betsy-st-amant-on-good-girls/  (The Pressure's Off) I hope this topic is timely not just for teen girls for women everywhere (even men for that matter)

Also, I'll be posting again at GIRLS, GOD AND THE GOOD LIFE on the 10th of November :)  http://www.girlsgodgoodlife.blogspot.com

Don't forget my new blog, where my heart's content is going right now, is now launched, alive and well at http://www.writergetsreal.blogspot.com   :)

I know this is a lot of content and a lot of links, guys, but hopefully you'll take the time to glimpse the content before dismissing it. In today's busy time and culture, we simply can't read everything that crosses our path. I understand that and have to pick and choose myself. But keep an open mind and heart so that you will view the items God DOES have for you - whether that's mine or someone else's sites.

Blessings on your Monday!

Social media blur

Okay, social media is uh...available. I get that. But what sites do you find the most productive? The most helpful? The most entertaining? (and are your answers to those questions even the same?)

Between Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google Connect, Instagram, Shoutlife, Myspace (is that even still there? LOL) and blogs and Goodreads and the works, which do you utilize the most and why?

I've narrowed it down myself to Facebook and Twitter (mostly). I've found this more user friendly and quick.

What do you think?

Tis the season

So today I'm heading to shop. Christmas shop! Woot woot! Who's with me? ;)

No really. There's this awesome fair in Texas that is held once a month where vendors come and bring their homemade (or not) goodies, everything from home decor to snacks to kitchenware to purses and jewelry and wallets to clothing and scarves and wrapping paper and furniture and baby items and...giant corn dogs on a stick!!!!

It's a fried food/shopping lover's paradise. Come on. You know you're jealous ;)

Seriously - on the down side, it's going to be 85 degrees or hotter, and insanely crowded with other corn dog loving shoppers looking for bargains. But hey, I think it's worth the risk. And there's always some homemade salsa that's worth the "are you kidding me" price tag.

Do you have anything like that in your area of town? Have you started Christmas shopping yet? Do you shop online, out of town, or in town?

Update....

Hey friends!

I'm not abandoning this blog, I will still be doing book reviews and sporadic posts and fun quizzes, it just might not be every day as before. I hope you will come subscribe to my new blog as a follower though and keep up with my more indepth, personal posts there. That's where my heart will be.

http://www.writergetsreal.blogspot.com

There's already a lot going on over there including a giveaway! So come sign up for free books and get ready to get real with Jesus :)  Partner with me?

Visit me today....

....at SCRIBBLE CHICKS!

www.scribblechicks.blogspot.com

New blog launch

I've launched a new blog!

www.writergetsreal.blogspot.com

Halloween Week

So this time of year I always bring up quite a controversial topic - what do you do about Halloween as a Christian?

For my family, we go to the carnival at our church, wear a pretty (not scary) costume, and get enough candy to last until Thanksgiving :)

We do this for several reasons:

1. It's how I grew up. I grew up going to carnivals or trick or treating in my grandmother's neighborhood in a Minnie Mouse costume or something of the like, getting a pumpkin bucket full of candy, and then being hyper for the best part of the next two weeks ;)

2. It's fun. Truly, it's a fun time, and as a girl turned woman who STILL loves to dress up, it's a great excuse ;)

3. It lets my child participate in a secular event but still be different from the majority - and that's how I view my role as a Christian. We are to be IN the world but not OF it. For me, Halloween is an example. She wanted to be a witch at one point for her costume and I said no. I said that was scary and that we don't do Halloween that way, we don't glorify that element of it. Halloween wasn't about being scary or looking scary for us, it was about dressing up as something pretty and trick or treating, practicing manners (saying please and thank you for candy) and having fun playing games at the church. She readily accepted all that (even at 4 years old!) and chose a fairy costume. (We didn't go the Merida route because I'm not dealing with another wig after she was Tangled Rapunzel last year! haha)

4. I support my church's decision in that instead of avoiding the night altogether, we provide an alternative. Get kids off the street, offer something safe, show them Christians have fun too (wink), keep an eye out for a witnessing opportunity, and introduce them to our church. I see no downside there!

I know there are Christians out there though who feel that participating in Halloween in any form, even the above, is still celebrating a pagan practice and it's best to lay low. I totally respect that opinion! Everyone has to follow their own convictions for their family.

So what do YOU think?

In the storm...

I posted on Jesus's voice in the storm today on http://www.girlsgodgoodlife.blogspot.com
Come check it out if you think it might help you... :)

Another fun historical...

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Accidentally Amish Barbour Books (October 1, 2012) by Olivia Newport
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A Word From The Author:

I’m imagining you. You walk past as I water my front flowerbeds and we wave. You check the time as we both stand in a long line at the grocery store. You sit in front of me in church. I’m at my table in the coffee shop and you’re at yours.

We may smile politely and move on with our separate lives. Or one of us may speak, a simple invitation to conversation, and the words flow between us.

Here the adventure begins. When we meet someone new, we never know where it might lead.

I’ve been married for over thirty years and have two twenty-something kids. We live in stunning Colorado at the foot of the Rockies, where the day lilies in my back yard grow as tall as I am. (No short jokes, please.)

Not every piece of my life is pretty, though. Some days I want to throw out whole chunks. But I am living each day looking for the grace of God to me, in me, and through me. Having your companionship along the way will help uncover a lot of great stories.

Thanks for stopping by my site, where conversations and adventures begin with a click. I hope we’ll run into each other often.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Escape the helter-skelter of the modern culture and join software creator Annie Friesen, hiding at the home of an Amishman. With her high-tech career in jeopardy, Annie runs from fast-paced Colorado Springs—and straight into the hospitality of San Luis Valley’s Amish community. There she meets cabinetmaker Rufus Beiler, and the more time she spends with him, the more attracted she becomes. When Annie finds she shares a common ancestor with Rufus, she feels both cultures colliding within her. But is her love for Rufus strong enough for her to give up the only life she’s ever known?

If you would like to read the first chapter of Accidentally Amish, go HERE.




Purchase here: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1616267127 

Enough said...

Book Info

About At the Feet of Jesus:  You were made for more than serving God; you were made to know Him. Intimacy with God-to know Him and be known by Him. It is what our hearts desperately need, but somehow life conspires to keep us busy and distracted. For anyone who struggles when it comes to daily devotions, At the Feet of Jesus extends an irresistible invitation to set aside your duties and find the amazing peace and incredible joy that come from time alone with Him. Drawn from Joanna Weaver's beloved Bethany trilogy, each reading in this 365-day devotional includes a Bible reading passage and reflection question. All-new material and "Going Deeper" sidebars are also woven throughout. Discover for yourself the riches that come from spending a portion of each day alone with God. At the feet of Jesus-where true life begins! Includes a unique One-Year Bible Reading Guide. Link to buy the book: http://ow.ly/erC31 Meet Joanna: Joanna Weaver is known the world over for her transparent and life-changing books, Having A Mary Heart in a Martha World and Having a Mary Spirit. Joanna has appeared on a wide variety of nationally syndicated radio and television broadcasts. She is also a highly sought after speaker and shares her message at intimate gatherings and several high profile events each year. But Joanna's greatest joy is found in being a wife and mother and her role as a pastor's wife. Find out more about Joanna at http://www.joannaweaverbooks.com/.

Blog Tour Schedule

http://litfusegroup.com/author/jweaver  Win an iPad from Joanna Weaver and RSVP to her Live Webcast Event {11/8} Celebrate the release of At the Feet of Jesus with Joanna Weaver by entering to win an iPad and RSVPing for the "True Life" Webcast Event on 11/8! One blessed winner will receive: An iPad The Year in Bethany Trilogy (Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World, Having a Mary Spirit and Lazarus Awakening  At the Feet of Jesus for YOU and Five of your friends. Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on November 7th. Winner will be announced at the "True Life" Live Webcast Event on November 8th. Connect with author Joanna Weaver and her special guest for an evening of encouragement, laughter and a Q&A! There will also be gift certificates and books given away to participants. So grab your copy of At the Feet of Jesus (or one of Joanna's other books) and join Joanna on evening of November 8th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the books - don't let that stop you from coming!) Don't miss a moment of the fun, RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 8th!

Scribble Chicks

Visit me today at Scribble Chicks! www.scribblechicks.blogspot.com

Whew

Thanks to anyone and everyone who prayed for me yesterday :)

I met one deadline and am hard at work today on another. I also managed yesterday to catch up on laundry and dishes, spend snuggle time with my sick preschooler, tidy up the house and cook a homemade soup and a homemade apple cake for my hubby, who wasn't feeling great either.

I'm convinced God gives moms super immune systems. Everytime my hubby gets sick in any form, my daughter does too. And by the grace of God it skips me, because, well - who else would take care of them?

Thankfully Little Miss is back in school today despite a misadventure in the car on the way there (don't ask) and is excited about her show and tell day. Whew.

Better get back to the deadlines now. The end is in sight ;)

What are you doing today?

Head above water...

Today is a head above water day. Deadlines of various kinds loom, my emotions are low, and my Little Miss is home sick. Prayers appreciated as I tread water--and tread in God's promises.

One of Susie's best...

Susie's done it again. One of my favorite authors, showing up as always with a fabulous story for readers that never fails to touch, inspire, warm, and refresh. Sometimes I hate to rave about authors because I feel like it's going to go over your head or you'll brush it off as "oh yeah right, no one is that good" - but uh, Susie is :)

Check out the details below of her new read that's about a woman in the witness protection program. This story has some fabulous "what if's" that make you think hard about your own life and priorities--and the consequences of lies. Yikes. 

I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comment section if you've gotten to read this one already!!

Click here to purchase your copy!!!!
http://ow.ly/e6zml  

About the Book: 



A Deep Haven Novel

Sometimes the secrets we keep to protect ourselves can be our undoing.

To all who know her, Annalise Decker is a model wife and mother. She’s a permanent member of the PTA, never misses a sporting event, and is constantly campaigning for her husband’s mayoral race.

No one knows that Annalise was once Deidre O’Reilly, a troubled young woman whose testimony put a dangerous criminal behind bars. Relocated through the Witness Security Program to the quaint harbor town of Deep Haven, Deidre received a new identity and a fresh start, which began when she fell in love with local real estate agent Nathan Decker.

Twenty years later, Annalise couldn’t be more unprepared for her past to catch up with her. When Agent Frank Harrison arrives with news that the man she testified against is out on parole and out for revenge, Annalise is forced to face the consequences of her secrets. Will she run again, or will she finally find the courage to trust those she loves most with both her past and her future?

Meet Susan: 

Susan May Warren is the RITA award-winning novelist of over thirty novels. A five-time Christy award finalist, a two-time RITA Finalist, she’s also a multi-winner of the Inspirational Readers Choice award, and the ACFW Carol Award.

A seasoned women’s events speaker, she’s a popular writing teacher at conferences around the nation and the author of the beginning writer’s workbook: From the Inside-Out: discover, create and publish the novel in you!.

Find out more about Susan May at http://www.susanmaywarren.com/.

You Don’t Know Me by Susan May Warren | $200 Weekend Getaway Giveaway and Facebook Party {10/23}

Author: Susan May Warren <!--/entry-meta

Welcome to the campaign launch for Susan May Warren’s latest offering in her beloved Deep Haven series, You Don’t Know Me. Susan is celebrating with a $200 Weekend Getaway Giveaway and hosting a fun video Author Chat Party!



One fortunate winners will receive:

• A $200 Visa Gift Card (Use that to catch up with a loved one and “Get to Know” your spouse, friend, sister, mom…whoever!)
• The entire set of Deep Haven Books

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on October 22nd. Winner will be announced at the “You Don’t Know Me” Author Chat Facebook Party on 10/23. Connect with Susan for an evening of book chat, Deep Haven trivia, and a live video chat! There will also be a chance to win gift certificates, books, and other fun prizes!

So grab your copy of You Don’t Know Me and join Susan on the evening of the October 23rd for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven’t read the books – don’t let that stop you from coming!)

Don’t miss a moment of the fun, RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 23rd!

--> Blog Tour Schedule
http://litfusegroup.com/campaigns/you-dont-know-me-by-susan-may-warren-200-weekend-getaway-giveaway-and-facebook-party-1023

I was given this book free of charge by the publisher for an honest review**