Delayed gratification: wait for it

Out like a lion, in like a lamb. That’s what my husband, Bob and I had been hoping for as we bid farewell to March. But that’s not how it happened on the mountain where we live at 6,800 feet. And while we awaited the arrival of spring, we were also anticipating Bob’s hip replacement surgery and the blessed absence of chronic pain…[read more]

To improve is to change: figuring out what works best

Have you ever made changes to improve your well-being, and then wondered if it was worth it? For the past six months, I’ve been tacking on new goals to support a healthier lifestyle…[read more]

Set apart: shining your light before others

In the same way, let your light shine before others… ~ Matthew 5:16

The other morning, I approached the town’s postal clerk and asked, “What’s the good word?” “Obnoxious,” he replied, eyes twinkling. “And why is that?” He seemed to contemplate my question. “Because that’s what I am.” We laughed, then engaged in small talk as he…[read more]

Better late than never: pursuing our dreams

I consider myself a “late bloomer” as it pertains to chasing my dream of becoming a published author. Since I was a little girl, however, I’ve wanted to be a writer. I finally pursued this dream seriously when I…[read more]

Ordering our days: pause and pray

Recently I participated in a guest interview conducted by author Diana Leagh Matthews, and one of her questions was: What’s the biggest struggle you have as a writer? While I’ve always wrestled with…[read more]

Showing up to the party: it’s a book birthday!

Today I’m thrilled to celebrate the launch of my Harlequin Love Inspired debut novel, A FATHER’S VOW—which has been 26 months in the making (see “Counting down…”)! I hope to see you on my Facebook Author Page—because what’s a party without guests? Several times…[read more]

Asking the tough questions: how to best serve your life ‘story’

I worked with a writing coach a few years ago. As a “plotter,” I crave structure—a roadmap of sorts—before I begin a new writing project. But similar to what oftentimes happens in real life, stories are prone to get off track. To help combat that, my coach recommended…[read more]

Strong and courageous: readjusting expectations when answered prayers fall short

Recently I shared with Facebook readers and newsletter subscribers about “Strong and Courageous,” a new story of mine featured in Guideposts’ forthcoming book “Exploring God’s Promises: Hope,” which follows my family’s account of God’s promise fulfilled—in the midst of trauma and uncertainty—after my husband was hit by a drunk driver and resuscitated at the scene. Up until the past few months…[read more]

Counting down: growing a book from conception to release

Have you ever wondered how long it takes to grow a book from conception to launch? In my case, it’ll be 26 months since I conceived the idea for my debut novel—“A Father’s Vow”—until its March 26 release! For a behind-the-scenes scoop, stop by to read my recent Sunday Dinner interview…[read more]

Forging or following: finding your own way

A couple weeks ago, I grabbed my trekking poles and followed a trail from our neighborhood into the national forest. Normally an easy route to navigate, deep snow rendered the path undetectable. With no human tracks to follow, I drew on past experience until…[read more]