Wednesday Worship 2/29

Who are you?

A popular TV show's theme song says this, "Who, who are you?" My pastor asked this question recently.

What do you say when someone asks, "Who are you?" or "What do you do?"

I can answer with a few different things:

• Ginger
• Mom
• wife
• home school teacher
• writer
• Christian
• blah, blah, blah

But are these descriptions really who I am? Are these adjectives how I want people to think of me? A more important question-is this how God sees me?

Other than Christian, the rest are dependent on other people in my life. My name (a nickname) was given me by my parents. My last name changed when I got married, and wife was added to the mix. Mom came a short time later with the birth of our first child. Teacher came also at this time. It wasn't a formal teaching position, but I taught my child long before he started learning his 123's or ABC's. Writer is a recent addition, but the desire has been growing for a while.  

All of these things could easily be stripped from me. They don't really define WHO I am. They define some of the things I DO.

So who am I? How do I want to be seen by others and by God?

I want to be seen as:

• a helper
• loving
• a servant of God
• a child of God
• gracious

If you come up to me today and ask, I might list some of the things further up, but I think my main answer from now on to the question 'Who are you?' will be, "I am a servant of the Most High God."

Who are you?

A2Z-take 2 "H"

Horses

I could not pass up the opportunity to tell you about my horses, AGAIN.  LOL

Coco is the solid brown mare. Her 'official' coloring is black. She is my alpha horse. Many animals have a 'pecking' order and between our two, she is the dominant one.

Angel is the paint (color, not breed). Officially, she is a tobiano - black and white. She is my laid-back, sure-whatever-you-want mare.

They are half-sisters; Coco being six months younger.

For four weeks in February they were 'in training.' We took them to a professional trainer to work out some of their kinks. We got them back Saturday. They are much improved and a joy to ride, which we plan to do often.

Do you enjoy riding? Tell me about a memorable experience you've had.

Review: "Gypsy's Game" by Delia Latham

Delia Latham has done it again. This third installment in the Solomon's Gate Series lives up to the previous stories. Gypsy's Game was well written and sent me on the highs and lows that I expect from a good book. Both Gypsy and Jal went into the relationship with ulterior motives, but God had bigger plans. Both are fortunate (or would that be unfortunate) enough to encounter Solomon--the bigger than life angel that leads soul-mates together. They find answers to the questions Gypsy has been asking all her life about her father, whose will started her search for a temporary husband.

This is a stand-alone book, but if you have opportunity to read Destiny's Dream and Kylie's Kiss first, I would suggest doing so.

Blurb:

Gypsy Lovell stands to inherit an enormous amount of money from a father who never gave her anything but a ridiculous name. Even now, he doesn’t make it easy. A stipulation in the man’s will demands that Gypsy be married in order to claim what is hers. Desperate for the monetary windfall that could save her ailing mother’s life, Gypsy visits a Christian dating agency, hoping to find a temporary husband. Someone easy to handle for the required six months, and easy to get rid of when she no longer needs him. Jal Garridan is neither of those things, but he's willing to take on the challenge presented by the beautiful stranger—on his own terms. What Gypsy doesn’t know is that Solomon’s Gate is a dating agency with a Divine connection. What she finds there may save more than her mother’s life. It may save Gypsy’s soul.

Kudos to Ms. Latham for another excellent inspirational romance.

Blessings,
Ginger

Review: "To Dance Once More" by Sherri Wilson Johnson

This is my first experience reading a book by Sherri Wilson Johnson. I loved it and will look forward to her books in the future. While this book isn't a suspense, it had enough twists and turns to keep me guessing until the final chapter. I enjoyed reading about Lydia's life, her heartaches, her desires, and her walk outside the norm of society. Her character was real and believable.

I've always wondered what it would have been like to live in the late 1800's. Now I know, at least in part. Ms. Johnson did a wonderful job of showing me Lydia's life, as well as that of the other characters, without taking me out of the story.

My take from this story: Sometimes the right thing doesn't feel right, but God works everything out in His time.

Blurb:

April 1886

Debutante Lydia Jane Barrington lives a carefree, protected existence on Live Oaks Plantation in Florida. But while her sisters happily learn the traditional tasks of women and talk of courting, Lydia dreams of adventure and independence. Even her friendship with handsome Hamilton Scarbrough isn’t enough to hold her back.

Then one day Hamilton opens Lydia’s eyes and her heart to love. But before they can receive permission to court, Lydia overhears a secret conversation about an unscrupulous business deal. Worse, it has everything to do with her and her future. Now she’s faced with the biggest decision of her life—to concede or to fight. Either choice will require great sacrifice…and, perhaps, countless rewards.

Watch the trailer.

Thanks for reading...
blessings,
Ginger

Wednesday Worship 2/22/12

I wasn't going to post this morning, but in my quiet time, I read a verse that stuck out to me and I wanted to share it with you.

First, a little back story: I finished reading Hosea today. It's an unusual look into God's perspective of Israel and their affairs with other idols (idolatry). In the last chapter Hosea, speaking for God, straight out tells Israel to return to God. Their calamity is because of their sin. Hosea even tells them what to say so that God will turn His anger away from Israel.

God said that if they repented, He would make them grow and blossom, among other things.

The last verse of chapter 14 is what struck me this morning. Verse 9 says, "Who is wise, that he may understand these things? Prudent, that he may know them? For the ways of the Lord are right and the [uncompromisingly] just shall walk in them, but transgressors shall stumble and fall in them." (AMP)

I could expound, and maybe even wax eloquent, about what I believe this verse says, but I'm going to let you think about words, and let the Lord work in your heart.

Father, may Your words not return void. May they bring understanding to our hearts and minds, and repentance to our spirits. Let Your love shine through us today, for we can not truly love others without You. Amen.

SELAH (pause and meditate)

Now that you've had a moment, what do YOU think the above verse is saying?

Blessings,
Ginger

A2Z-take 2 "G"

I couldn't resist using my own name today.  :-)

But...there are a few other things that start with ginger:

• gingerbread
• ginger ale
• gingersnap
• ginger root 

My kids think it's amusing that I don't like the taste of ginger. I don't eat gingerbread or gingersnaps, nor do I drink gingerale.

I remember when I was pregnant and nauseous all day long, my sweet m-i-l (mother-in-love) suggested candied ginger. Yuuuccckkkk! That stuff was SO incredibly disgusting to me.

I know that Chinese food includes ginger root and because there are so many bold flavors, I don't mind that hint of ginger.

What other things do you know that are laced with ginger?

Review: "A Man to Trust" by Carrie Turansky

A photographer and a flutist thrown together at, of all places, a book store. As we look in on Adrie and Ross, we see two people struggling with past mistakes, and the future they see for themselves. Neither are looking for love, but love finds them. In true Love Inspired fashion, Carrie Turansky takes us to the town of Fairhaven where love blooms between the unsuspecting as God looks on, laughing at the struggles humans put themselves through.

Ms. Turansky's excellent writing and storytelling draw the reader into the lives of Adrie and Ross. In the end we understand what true love is all about, sacrificing one's self for the good of the one you love. This is a great Sunday afternoon getaway.

If you would like to purchase this book, please click here to help support this blog.

Blessings,
Ginger

Interview - Linda Rondeau, author of "The Other Side of Darkness"

Welcome Linda. Is there a story behind this book?

On June 21, 2000 I felt a definite call from the Lord to start writing professionally. I had no idea where the journey would take, so I sat down and wrote a poem of dedication to the Lord’s call, The Song of Peace. The poem has a line, “there is light on the other side of darkness.” Many times, I thought about giving up. Whenever hit by looming doubt, I revisited God’s call and that poem. I kept moving forward, studying my craft and networking, occasionally publishing an article or story and obtaining an agent. On June 21, 2011 I received a call from my agent that Harbourlights wanted to offer me a contract and I accepted. Unaware of my poem, the editor changed the title from the working draft, Dawn’s Hope, to The Other Side of Darkness. I am humbled in all things to realize that God knew what the title of my first published book would be even before I fashioned the idea. This debut novel is my ninth. 

We certainly serve a wonderful God, who happens to have a sense of humor. Share a verse or Scripture passage with us that is special to you (and why it's special). 

John 10:10b(NIV), “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” This verse comforts me in times of turmoil to remember that nothing can happen to me here without God’s permission. If He permits it, it is for His glory and/or my ultimate benefit.

What a wonderful verse. Are there spiritual themes you like to write about?

I worked for nearly thirty years in human services as a social worker, caseworker, and counselor. My writing deals mainly with relationships and how our early years influence our later ones. Always, God uses the cracks and disappointments of our lives to fashion something beautiful.

This is so true? Why did you choose a moose for Samantha Knowles to hit?

The moose began as a plot device. I needed her to hit something larger than a deer that would total her car. I saw pictures of a moose accident and the whole scene took shape. Before the story was completed, I had a near run in with one. A writer friend thought the incident prophetic.

Scary, I certainly wouldn't want to be confronted with a moose in the road. What would you say was the major theme of The Other Side of Darkness?

The story is about forgiveness…not just for the wrong done to us by others but forgiving ourselves. Sadie Golden talks about a backpack of guilt we strap on ourselves, guilt that God has already forgiven us for and buried in the sea of His forgetfulness. Secondarily, the book is about finding good from the pain of our lives.

Beauty for ashes, and the oil of joy for mourning, as Isaiah says. Can you tell us a little about yourself?

What can I say? My life is in a whirlwind at the moment. Several months ago, I packed up what I could fit in my little Ford Focus and headed to Jacksonville, Fl. I didn’t know for how long. But, we sold our house in Malone and bought a house here. Now all that’s missing is my husband who can’t retire until June. It has been a growth experience for sure. I’ve been challenged in ways I never thought possible. Everything has become new…and God threw a book contract into the mix.

That certainly does sound like a whirlwind. You are the founder of Pentalk. Can you tell us what inspired you to start this particular group?

When talking to a writer friend at a local writer conference, I was hit with the concept of a mixed group. There are so many groups that are geared to a particular aspect of writing, such as marketing or craft development, genre, or religious or general market. Some groups deal more with critique or information. I wanted to develop a group where writers could support one another as well as learn about the craft, a place not only to “brag” or post their accomplishments, but a place to ask questions and receive guidance from writers who have traveled a little farther on the road. I thought of Walmart…a store that is a one-stop shopping place. I wanted to develop a writer group with that in mind. A place where writers can have it all. 

What advice would you give to a new author?

The best piece of advice I can give to a new author is . .

Be patient. Give yourself time to develop your voice and style. Too often new writers are in a hurry to get published. It’s like eating green bananas. Give yourself some time in the sun before you rush to get an agent or self-publish.

Wonderful words of wisdom. How do your faith and spiritual life play into the picture and affect your storytelling?

A friend, who does not profess Christianity, told me that who you are will subconsciously roar through what you write. I need to guard against making writing an idol, yet, at the same time, I worship when I write. I ask God to show me where He wants my stories to go. Sometimes, that direction is vastly different than my initial conception.

Thank you for joining us today, Linda, and giving us a small glimpse into your life.

You can find out more about Linda at her website: http://www.lindarondeau.com/index.html and if you're interested in Pentalk, you can find it here: http://pentalkcommunity.blogspot.com/.

To purchase The Other Side of Darkness, visit a bookstore near you, or click here and help support this blog.

Blessings,

Ginger

ah me...and the journey

Every week I come back saying, "It's a journey" and it is, but oh I wish it would go faster. "Are we there yet?" crosses my mind often. "Can't we go faster?" is another question I ask God sometimes.

But I know I'm not there yet, nor will it go any faster. Why? Because I am dragging my feet. God will not take me anywhere I am not willing to go, but...and it is a BIG but...He will also not take me anywhere I don't need to go. He waits patiently for me to get on the right path and follow Him.

What does this have to do with weight loss? I've fallen off the wagon, if you will. I need to climb back aboard and get back on the right path.

No weight gained, but none lost either. I can't get skinnier and more fit, if I don't exercise and eat right. It's so hard though. Soda and chocolate are my friends, but really they're more like enemies. They're killing me from the inside out. But I'm letting them do it.

ACK!

One day at a time, but I have to start today, not tomorrow because tomorrow never comes.

If you're on a journey, even if it's not about weight loss, tell us how you're doing. We'll encourage one another.

Blessings,
Ginger

A2Z-take 2 "F"

Friends

Not the show, the people-the people in your life that you can turn to, trust in, and rely on in good times and bad. Do you have one, two, more?

What about a best friend? That one person you think of when life gets you down, or whose name forms on your lips when you feel on top of the world.

I had a best friend a very long time ago. Her name was Tammy. She lived next door to me until I was around eight. We did everything together. This is us > (I'm on the left.)

We lost contact a year or so after she moved, but I've never forgotten her.

Since that time, I've struggled with the need for a "best friend." I've prayed about it, arguing and pleading with God for a female friend that I could talk stuff out with.

To my great disappointment, He has not seen fit to say yes to my requests. Instead, I have had to rely on God. I would like to say I go to Him first when things are bad or when something exciting has happened, but I don't. Sometimes I forget He's there for me whenever I need Him. No voice-mail messages, e-mails or call backs. He's always available to listen.

My problem lies in the fact that I like feedback-an audible voice that fusses if I'm sounding stupid, consoles if I'm down, or rejoices if something exciting has happened. God does speak to me, in my spirit and through His Word (even through others), but sometimes I get confused and fail to listen. 

I don't know where I'm going with this, but maybe it's just a reminder to you, that if you have a best friend (someone besides your spouse) say an extra prayer of thanks today and go the extra step and give her/him a call and express your thanks for all she/he has done for you.

And when your phone call is done, comment and tell me how much your best friend means to you.

Blessings,

Ginger

Review: "The Other Side of Darkness" by Linda Wood Rondeau

The Other Side of Darkness sounds sinister and evil, but in reality it is a very inspirational suspense story because on "the other side of darkness" is "a place where hope" dwells and that hope can only be found in Jesus.

Sometimes, you know you like a book, but can't quite put your finger on the exact reason, or reasons. That's where I am. I enjoyed every moment of reading the story. I didn't find it frightening, but definitely eye-opening. Haven sounded like a wonderful place to hide and recover and I, too, love the smell of hyacinths. It reminded me of my childhood home.

If you like suspense, with just a touch of romance, you will like The Other Side of Darkness.

The book blurb:

A Manhattan prosecutor is stranded in a remote Adirondack village and is drawn to the ancestral home of the town’s founding father as well as its brooding heir, a landscape artist. Is the estate cursed as legend says? Something she’d like to investigate if an escaped convicted murderer, bent on revenge, were not heading her way.

See the trailer:

Click here to purchase this excellent book and support this blog at the same time.

Blessings,
Ginger

Proof, See the Evidence - Interview

Today I have the special privilege of having not one, but three incredible ladies on my blog today. In a moment they are going to tell you about their new blog, Proof, See the Evidence. Before we get to the interview, however, let me take a moment to tell you about these ladies.


Becky Dean works in state politics for pay, and writes novels for fun. Not that politics isn’t fun. Just that writing doesn’t pay. She especially enjoys young adult sci fi and fantasy, and serves as president of her local chapter of American Christian Fiction Writers. Becky grew up in Southern California and now lives in Austin, Texas, where she misses the beach, but loves the BBQ. She met her husband at Baylor University. (Sic ‘em, Bears!)

Tanya Eavenson grew up in a non-Christian home, catching a bus to attend church as a child. She accepted Christ at a young age after walking down the reddest carpet she’d ever seen. At sixteen, she received her first Bible for Christmas. Never in her wildest dreams did she think God would use her to reach others for Him. But that is exactly what she’s been doing since God called her and her husband into the ministry. Tanya is also writer for Christ to the World Ministries, has written for Novel Editions Reviews, Reflections In Hindsight, and The Bookshelf Newsletter. She is a member of ACFW and was a semi-finalist in the 2011 Genesis contest.




Shellie Neumeier holds a degree in Secondary Education from the University of Wisconsin, Madison, with a minor in Psychology, Sociology and Social Studies. A devoted mother of four, Shellie previously worked on staff with Northbrook Church as the King’s Kids ministry assistant (serving children in grades 2nd through 5th). Shellie’s YA novel, Driven (Risen Fiction) and A Summer in Oakville (Black Lyon Publising) are available online and at your local bookstores. Her middle grade chapter book The Wishing Ring will release February 2012. She is an active member of ACFW as well as a contributing author for various blogs. Shellie is located in southwestern Ohio.

Now let's get to the interview. Welcome, ladies.

What is Proof, see the evidence?

Tanya: Proof, see the evidence is a website focused on teens, challenging them to live their lives differently than the world. What does that mean exactly? Well, to one teen it might mean to share the gospel for the first time or to go on a mission trip. For another, it could mean to stand up for those who are unable to stand up for themselves. Really, it’s about following in Christ’s footsteps.

Sounds great. Why target teens and not adults?

Becky: All three of us have a passion for reaching teens, and God really brought us together at the right time to do just that. The teen years are when people really discover who they are, who God wants them to be. One thing we want to do through Proof is look for creative ways to help teens in this process, whether through websites, or online chats, or novels, or music. We want to provide another way for them to explore faith issues, to seek, and to find answers.

How is Proof different than other teen websites?

Shellie: Proof is designed to share the best of many worlds with teens while providing a safe community for them to interact. We’ll host band and author interviews, hear from teens on tough subjects, and hopefully, enjoy a few youtube videos that’ll make us all smile. It’s informative. It’s interactive. It’s fun.

What will teens find on Proof, see the evidence?

Tanya: If you visit our site you will see a range of things. Interviews from authors, bands, and athletes, mission adventures, reviews on some of the hottest books, and topical discussions relating to what teens face today. We’ll also have devotions that hit the crux of the matter, even crazy contests. Next week we plan to start a flash mob contest. And that is something you won’t want to miss. =)

I'll make sure to see it. How is Proof different than traditional youth groups?

Becky: In a traditional youth group, teens are face to face. This can be intimidating for someone who is searching, who looks or talks different, who wants to seek in their own way or time. With Proof, teens can remain anonymous if they want. Or, we hope to provide lots of ways for them to get involved if that’s their style. Teens are the top users of new technologies, so we want to take advantage of that to address important issues in a format that appeals to them.

If you had one Bible verse to share with a teen, which Bible verse would you quote and why?

Shellie: Definitely 1Timothy 4:12: “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.” I’ve met amazing young adults in my life. Teens that go to foreign countries to serve people they’ve never met with no thought to personal gain. Teens that dedicate hours to small group studies and retreats when it costs them time on the job and time with their school work. Teens that have no shame in sharing what they know about Jesus. Just because they are young, doesn’t mean they aren’t to be heard. If anything, may we as adults listen to what they have to say, a little more often.

Well said. Thank you for coming and telling us about Proof, See the Evidence.

 Thank you, Ginger for having us on today. This is such an exciting time because tomorrow on the 11^th , we officially launch our blog. Melanie Dickerson and the group Disowning Kaleb will be with us “live” to answer questions or comments teens may have. And for those who do leave a comment, they will be automatically entered to win prizes given away that night. So tell the teens you know to stop by and leave a comment. 

Here is a link to our to the blog Proof, See the Evidence  and to our Facebook page.

We look forward to seeing you there! 

Blessings,

Ginger

Wednesday Worship & Weight loss Journey

Just like the above photograph, the whole picture of our lives is obscured from view. That's been frustrating me lately. I want to see into the future, not a long way, but far enough so I know what to do NOW.

I didn't write yesterday's Wednesday Worship because I'm just running out of time. I need to schedule myself better, or drop a few things. This blog is low on the list at the moment, so if you don't see me post according to my self-made schedule, it's because I've gotten behind again.

Of course getting behind is a vicious cycle and hard to break. I'm supposed to be exercising now (weight-loss journey, right). I haven't exercised in a week for various reasons, some of which are actually valid. I'm not even going to report on my weight; it's a nightmare.

I know sodas(Coke and Dr. Pepper, mainly) are my weak point, and yet, I can't seem to resist. Three days in a row this week I had one. It doesn't sound so bad, but, for me, soda means added weight. I don't know. Sometimes I think I only have to look at one and add a pound or two for every second of visual connection.

Well, time to move on to today and do the best I can TODAY.

What is your weak point? Is it chocolate or sodas or something else? Please tell me that you have one, so I don't feel all alone in this fight with my flesh. :)

Blessings to you and yours,
Ginger

A2Z-take 2 "E"

Here comes another story. I can't help it; it's dying to be told.  :-)

Eli the Elephant

Eli knew he was a very large elephant. Everyone told him so at least once, and, well, even his father couldn't compare in size. Lots of his friends said he was scary and they didn't want to play with him anymore. He didn't mean to be scary. He couldn't help how big he was. He kept his head lowered so he wouldn't seem so big, but it didn't help. Of all the elephants in his herd, only his mother spoke with him as though he were normal. He spent most days alone, though, because he didn't want the others to think he was a baby, always hanging around with his mom.

One day his grandmother approached him and told him that he was grown enough to leave and join his father's herd. This made Eli sad because the other bachelor elephants didn't accept him either. He walked away, after saying goodbye to his mother, with tears in his eyes. 

He didn't know where he was going, but knew he would be alone for the rest of his life. None of the females he'd ever met would talk to him, even when he got enough nerve to say, "hi." 

Somewhere, a long way from his former herd, he found a watering hole. He stepped close and took a long drink. The longer he stood there, the quieter his surroundings became. He lifted his head and looked around. He moved his ears, listening. He didn't see or hear anything. He ducked his head once more and took another drink. His long walk had made him very thirsty.

He lifted his head again. Something wasn't right. He took a step back. He heard a howl. He lifted his foot, and twisted around as fast as he could. Behind him stood a lioness, licking her paw.

"I'm sorry. I didn't know you were back there."

She growled at him. He lowered his head and walked away. She limped to his side. "You really didn't do it on purpose?"

"No."

"Why aren't you scared of me? I could kill you."

Eli laughed at the lioness. Her eyes blazed. He stopped laughing. "I don't think you could kill me, but even if you did, no one would care. Everyone thinks I'm too big anyway. Maybe I would be enough to feed your whole family."

The lioness looked away. "I don't have a family," she whispered. "They think I'm strange because I like to attack big animals and really small animals. I won't chase antelope or zebra. It's no fun."

He looked at her closely. She didn't look hungry. "You must be doing okay by yourself."

"Yeah, but I'm lonely."

"Me, too. Do you want to hang out with me? I don't have any friends either. You just have to promise not to eat me." He giggled at his joke.

She giggled too. "Sure, my name is Ellie."

"I'm Eli. Ellie and Eli. Funny."

Ellie and Eli walked into the woods to take a nap and they stayed friends for the rest of their lives.

Blessings,

Ginger

Review: "An Amish Family Reunion" by Mary Ellis

As an accomplished author, Mary Ellis knows the ins and outs of writing a really good book. An Amish Family Reunion exemplifies this well. 

Phoebe Miller is an artist at heart, and shy. She refuses to attend the singings, and such that are normal for Amish youth.With one exception. She manages to talk her father into a trip to Niagara Falls. On this trip, she meets Eli Riehl, a young Amish man who spins an exceptional story. Together they plan a business venture to produce a book with Eli's story and Phoebe's illustrations. 

Somewhere along the way, Eli and Phoebe grow to love one another. But when tragedy strikes on the Riehl farm, Eli has to give up his dream and care for the family's farm. He's not willing, however, to give up on Phoebe. As shy as she, he takes a step beyond his comfort zone and pursues her at every opportunity.

This book is preceded by several others: A Widow's Hope, Never Far From Home, and The Way to a Man's Heart. It is not necessary, however, to have read these in order to enjoy An Amish Family Reunion. 

I enjoyed this novel a great deal, as I had the others that I have read by Ms. Ellis. I look forward to more books from her in the future.

If you are interested in purchasing this book, please click here and help support this blog.

Blessings,
Ginger

Mary Ellis Interview

Let’s talk about your new book An Amish Family Reunion (Harvest House, February 1, 2012). Please tell us about it.

Julia Miller misses her children. They are grown and have families of their own now, but her mother’s heart yearns for a houseful of laughter and joy once again. She plans to gather her chicks together in a summer celebration to remember. At the farm next door, Julia’s niece, Phoebe, meets Eli Riehl, a young man who charms her—and everyone else—with his exceptional storytelling ability on a rumschpringe trip to Niagara Falls. When Phoebe sketches scenes to illustrate one of his tales, Eli encourages her incredible talent, and together they embark on a lofty and unlikely business venture for two young Amish people—writing and illustrating a children’s book.  Eli’s kindness and appeal extend beyond his knack for words to reach inside Phoebe’s shy heart. But he is an only son with five sisters, and when tragedy strikes at home, Eli gives up his writing to assume responsibility on the farm. Though willing to abandon his dream of becoming an author, he won’t give up his beloved Phoebe.  Can their love for a good story develop into something that lasts forever, or will memories of the past stand in their way?

What do you hope readers will take away from it?

I hope my readers will learn that the Amish aren’t much different from other Christian denominations. We all struggle to balance our daily lives with our walks of faith. Life isn’t easy; it’s not supposed to be. There is only One who can lighten our load.

That's so true. What’s next for you? What are you working on?

I am putting the finishing touches on the first of my New Beginnings series, Living in Harmony, and then starting book two, Living in Paradise right afterward. With three books due within the year, I won’t need any other reason to stay in the chair in front of my computer.

Sounds daunting. God bless you as you write. Tell us something about yourself:

I grew up near an Amish settlement and fell in love with their agrarian lifestyle. I have now written eight novels set in their peaceful communities. When not writing I enjoy gardening, bicycling, swimming and traveling with my college sweetheart, my husband of many years. Before "retiring" to write full-time, I taught middle school and worked as a sales rep for Hershey Chocolate--a job with amazingly sweet fringe benefits. My debut Christian book, A Widow's Hope, was a finalist for the 2010 ACFW Carol Awards.

I would like some of those sweet benefits about now.
For more information about Mary, visit her new website at www.maryellis.net or her blog at www.maryeellis.wordpress.com, or her Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Mary-Ellis/126995058236

Come back on Monday when I will review Mary's book, "An Amish Family Reunion."

Weightloss journey

Down a pound from last week. Continuing on the journey, one day at a time.

I pray you are doing better than I am.

Ginger

Wednesday Worship

It's a rainy day outside and I honestly can't think of a thing to write today, so I thought I would treat ya'll to some youtube videos.  :)

Some are funny, some my favorite, and some just allow you to worship. Enjoy.

Blessings,
Ginger