Audra Harders

Are you ready??

2012-02-23T05:41:00.000-08:00

Come join the fun in Seekerville as we host our first annual Seekerville Speed Book, affectionately known as Speedbo.

Much along the conceptual vein of NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month), Speedbo will offer encouragement and praise (and of course, prizes!!) as we slug through rough drafts.

The goal is to write as many words as possible.

They won't be pretty

They may not make sense.

But there will be a lot of them : )

Questions? Let me know and I'll do my best to answer them.

It's going to be a great month!

It's the end of January already!

2012-01-30T05:46:00.000-08:00

How embarassinging is this? I haven't posted since the old year...

Okay, gotta remedy this. I'm back on track on and ready to dive into writing for the new year.

I have a couple of projects mulling through my brain. As I continue to write about my favorite cowboys, ranchers and small towns, I'm also becoming one with the historical chambers of my heart. Yes, for years I dabbled in British historic romance featuring noblemen and gypsies and all the unique characters God placed on this earth for variety : ) It's fun to go back in time for a spot 'o tea, now and then.

I'm excited to see where 2012 will lead us all. There are plenty of irons in the fire!

Do you have any you'd like to share?

Join The Party!

2011-12-28T18:37:00.000-08:00

Join Seekerville on Saturday, December 31st, 2011 from midnight to midnight as we usher in 2012 with a full 24 hours of incredible giveaways for readers and writers. We'll be reviewing the past year and sharing our predictions for the 2012 New Year. No party is complete without our friends. No matter what your time zone we'll have a party in full swing at www.seekerville.net.

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-23T20:39:00.000-08:00

Dear friends,

As the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ approaches, I want to give special thanks to all who helped fan the flames of my joy over the past year.

I've been richly blessed by the outpouring of love and encouragement by family and friends as I muddled my way through my first year as a published author. What a ride! I wouldn't have wanted to go down that path without you!

My Seeker sisters who have shared all the good times and bad with me, offering a plethora of words of wisdom no matter the situation. I am so blessed to have you in my life. We started out as 15 unpublished writers and after 6 years, all of us now claim ISBN numbers. What a miracle!

Thank you to all the kind hearted readers who took the time to share their thoughts and stories with me. I cherish each and every one of you! Your sweet words live in my heart -- and on gorgeous stationary in a file in my computer which I pull up each time I need a reminder of why I need to press on and finish my next book.

God bless you all and I pray you enjoy a very Merry Christmas and a joyous New Year.

Saturday Stories: The Apothecary's Daughter

2011-12-03T00:01:00.000-08:00

I am a new reader of Ms. Klassen’s books, and I daresay I’m hooked for life. As I read The Apothecary's Daugher, I was enchanted by the cover, enticed by the setting and absolutely sold as the words of this love story unfolded before me. At each turn, I thought I had figured out the suitor to win Lilly’s heart. But as I rounded the bend, uncertainty once again clouded my mind and I read on to see which lucky man would win the fair Lillian Haswell’s heart.

Lilly Haswell dreams of travelling the world. She sits atop the bridge and studies the narrowboats carrying passengers up and down the canal, daydreaming of places far away and maybe someday finding her mother who left the family a few years earlier and had not been heard from since. She is restless at home with her disabled brother and her lonely father as she helps in the apothecary’s shop, longing for a life beyond her simple village. An opportunity to make her dreams come true arrives in the form of her aunt and uncle who offer to take Lilly to London and bestow a season upon her. Lilly jumps at the chance. Along the journey from Bedsley Priors to London and back, Lilly finds dreams may not be all they’re dressed up to be. She snatches bits and pieces of news of her mother, information that only muddles Lilly’s already confused feelings and heart. When illness strikes and she makes the decision to return to Bedsley Priors, Lilly finds the quest of the heart may not be the adventure she once thought it to be.

An absolutely wonderful story that drew me in from word one. I must confess, I received The Apothecary’s Daughter as a free download from Kindle. If you ever wonder if “free” promotions do any good for the author, know that I’m an now a firm fan of Ms. Klassen’s and plan to purchase her books as they become available.

Sandi Rog is my guest

2011-11-30T20:10:00.000-08:00

in Seekerville tomorrow! If you want to know the ins and outs of freelance editing, or if you're shopping for an editor to review your work but don't know anything about it, stop in tomorrow and ask all the questions you'd like.

Sandi has been an editor for over 10 years and works with Inspiration For Writers, Inc, a group of freelance editors who have your best interests at heart.

Sandi is also battling cancer. To follow her story, please go to her blog and be amazed by the heart and humor of this dear, sweet, courageous lady as she battles this despicable disease. Fundraising efforts have been arranged to help defray medical costs. Please visit Alison Strobel's site for more information.

So pop by Seekerville tomorrow, Thurs Dec 1, and say hi to Sandi! Show your support by leaving a comment and you may win one of three prizes!

See you there!

Saturday Stories: The Merchant's Daughter

2011-11-26T00:01:00.000-08:00

Melanie Dickerson has done it again. After her debut book, The Healer's Apprentice, I didn't think fairy tales could get any better. Well, she proved me wrong. The Merchant's Daughter is the perfect book to grab along with a mug of hot chocolate and wile away a snowy December afternoon.

What a keeper.

Melanie Dickerson’s inspirational rendition of Beauty and the Beast is unforgettable. With style and grace, she has created wounded characters scarred so deeply, I feared she’d never be able to heal and redeem them. But save them she does in a most masterful, yet poignant manner.

Annabel Chapman is beautiful inside and out, yet plagued with the insecurity of her own human-ness to the point where she distrusts her own logic and faith. Ranulf le Wyse is a man scarred through heroism and unable to see his own valor or honor through the pain and torment of his anger. A more deserving couple in need of God’s healing forgiveness and love I’ve not seen in ages.

Set in Medieval England, The Merchant’s Daughter wraps you within the cloak of simpler days, among simpler people, basking in a simple English countryside. Though the setting may whisper simple, the characters are far from simple. Complex and deeply injured, Annabel and Ranulf fight through their worst fears and learn trust in the Lord who loves them and protects them beyond compare.

Keep a box of tissues beside you. The raw honesty that touches the pages of The Merchant’s Daughter will leave you dabbing at tears filled with emotion. I await the next book from this author!

Watch the trailer and peek into the beautiful story world created!

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T00:01:00.000-08:00

We've been given so much to be thankful for as we live in the "land of the free and home of the brave." May God continue to shower blessings and His favor on our nation. And may we always remember it is more blessed to give than to receive.

I pray this day finds you among family and friends. And if all who you love are far away, still know that you are never alone.

Coming Soon: Saturday Stories

2011-11-22T13:24:00.000-08:00

I'd like to start something fun I'm calling Saturday Stories. On Saturdays, I'll post a review of the book I've read over the week. There are so many great books and great authors, how can folks make a choice where to spend their hard earned pennies? Blog reviews are not a new thing, but maybe I'll come across a book or author you're not familiar with and offer a peek into my version of Calgon, take me away : )

Check back on Saturday for my debut : )

Vacation!

2011-11-19T05:29:00.000-08:00

It's Saturday! Not only the first day of a glorious weekend, but also the first day of an entire week off from the day job! Don't get me wrong, I love my job, it's just sometimes -- when all you want to do is write your heart out because you've imagined this wonderful scene for your book and you don't want to lose the essence of the excitement -- there are other things I'd like to do : )

Speaking of exciting essenses of writing, if you haven't visited Casey Herringshaw's 2nd Blogaversary party yet, what are you waiting for? Melanie Dickerson is Casey's guest today. Melanie writes the most amazing Medieval romances full of suspense, detailed descriptions, to-die-for heros (and heroines, LOL) and heart warming happily ever afters. Her latest masterpiece, The Merchant's Daughter, is available now. And while you're at it, check out The Healer's Apprentice. Both are beautifully crafted stories guaranteed to stay on your mind long after The End.

I'm a life-long fan of Melanie Dickerson. Her books definitely bring out the historical voice in me and make me want to scribble many a 'twas and 'twere in my manuscripts -- now won't that confuse the cowboys down on the ranch, LOL!

Fun Filled Thursday

2011-11-16T19:17:00.000-08:00

Ever had one of those weeks where nothing happens on first few days -- I mean nothing -- and then you have one day packed to the gills? Well that's my Thursday! All week, writing has been slow, day job has been very quiet, even my husband and I haven't had that much to talk about, LOL! Lots of stuff vying for attention tomorrow though so I hope you can join the fun!

First, join me in Seekerville where I'll be expounding on the concept of "Would he really do that?" If there's anything I've learned over my years of writing is that there is always something new to learn. Stop by Seekerville and find out about my latest discovery. Leave a comment and you'll have a chance to win a book on the subject : )

After grabbing a snack and chit chatting in Seekerville, mozy on over to Writing for Christ where Casey is throwing an awesome week long party in honor of her 2nd Blogaversary!! Casey runs a class act and has interviewed some of the most fascinating authors in Christian fiction. I'll be sharing the party venue on Thursday with the most wonderful Lisa Jordan and spectactular Jessica Nelson. What do the three of us have in common (other than adoring Casey?)...we're all First Sale authors! Come join the fun!

If you really want to, you can then follow me to the day job where I'll spend my day working with member and volunteer enrollments for another fun-filled year of 4-H...the best experience opportunity for kids, bar none!!

I am truly blessed.

I get to write novels weaving the love of Christ in the everyday world of ordinary characters,
I hobnob, blog and call the great bunch of authors in Seekerville my dear friends,
the friends I've made in the Christian romance industry are the best ever!
my day job is a joy and a blessing
love my family...and they love me!!

Stop by the parties tomorrow. You won't be sorry!

Play Time!

2011-11-14T10:52:00.000-08:00

I decided to play with my blog template. What do you think? This one is only temporary as I explore Christmas themes, but I kind of like it : )

Personally, I tend to fall into a rut in an effort to remain constant. Does that make sense? You're told you have to stick with your brand, people need to recognize you for the author you are, become an Internet icon.

Hmmm, I do believe all that advice is well and good, but also, I think we need to constantly work on our creativity. God poured more than the standard measure of creativity into my little pea brain. I could daydream for hours if left to my own devices. And it served me well in my childhood when I struggled with painful shyness. I created worlds and characters in my head that kept me company and accepted me for the quiet, reserve kid I was.

Then hormones hit the scene and well, a curious teenager emerged from her shell on the first day of junior high. LOL. I'll bet my folks longed for the days when they worried over how much I talked to myself!! Maturity, marriage and children of my own have tempered my ways, but I still retain the tendency to slip into creative lapses and rearrange the furniture for no reason at all or buy a new scented candle or ...

Or change the wallpaper on my blog : )

Stay tuned, I'm searching for just the right Christmas essence to welcome in the holiday season : )

Query Letters Needed!!

2011-10-08T07:42:00.000-07:00

Query Letter Contest! Don't miss this opportunity!!

Enter your one-page query letter and the last page of an
unpublished and completed manuscript targeted at Love Inspired, Love Inspired
Historical or Love Inspired Suspense. Deadline is Monday at Midnight. The top
five finalists will then go to Love Inspired Senior Editor Melissa Endlich for
judging. The winner will be announced on December 4, 2011 in Seekerville's
Weekend Edition.

The winner will have an opportunity to avoid the slush pile and submit
their first three chapters and synopsis to Senior Editor Melissa Endlich by
snail mail.

http://seekerville.blogspot.com/p/seekerville-love-inspired-read-me-query.html

And best of all. This contest is kind to your budget. It's FREE!!

Check This Out

2011-09-02T19:36:00.000-07:00

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!WHOO-HOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

FREE DOWNLOAD OF TONS OF

E-BOOKS INCLUDING:

Julie Lessman (A Hope Undaunted),

Laura Frantz (The Frontiersman's Daughter)

and Maggie Brendan (No Place for a Lady)

SO CHECK IT OUT!!!

Just found out that A Hope Undaunted, book 1 in the Winds of Change series is FREE for download almost everywhere, and you do NOT need a Kindle, Nook or e-reader to download it — you can download e-books on ANYTHING, including PCs, Macs, iPads, iPhones, Cloud Readers, Androids, Blackberrys and Windows Phone 7, you name it!

Go to any of the online bookseller sights and look for their free e-books for A Hope Undaunted, The Frontiersman's Daughter and No Place for a Lady.

Or here are the links to A Hope Undaunted:

CBD.com:
http://www.christianbook.com/hope-undaunted-a-novel-ebook/julie-lessman/9781441213105/pd/4389EB?item_code=WW&netp_id=840937&event=ESRCN&view=details
Amazon.com:
http://www.amazon.com/Hope-Undaunted-Winds-Change-ebook/dp/B004A9063S/ref=tmm_kin_title_0?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2&qid=1281558222&sr=8-1
Barnes & Noble:
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/hope-undaunted-julie-lessman/1020663421?ean=9780800734152&itm=1&usri=a%2Bhope%2Bundaunted%2Ba%2Bnovel#CustomerReviews
Sony e-Reader:
http://ebookstore.sony.com/ebook/julie-lessman/a-hope-undaunted/_/R-400000000000000279440

Happy Reading!

Orphans

2011-07-25T00:05:00.000-07:00

When you raise livestock, there are times when the unexpected happens. My daughter had given me a call at the office and asked if I'd bring home an incubator. Red flags flashed all around me.

"Why do we need an incubator?"
"Because I found a nest of Rouen eggs. Our hen is gone. I'm going to hatch them out."
"Are you sure you want to do that? It's a little late in the season."
"I can't just leave them here. They'll die."
At this point, not knowing how long the nest had been unattended, I think, hmm, I doubt they'll survive the journey to the house, much less the incubation. "Did you ask Dad?"
"He said fine."
Ooookay. 30 days of drama, about to unfold.

We set the eggs up in the incubator and faithfully turned them, sprayed them, watched them with a skeptical eye. One Saturday before daughter left for work, she came bounding in and announced she'd heard peeping. The eggs were about to hatch.

Okay, call me a non-believer. I never once thought the eggs stood a chance. But, lo and behold, by the end of the weekend, we were the proud foster family of 7 -- count'em SEVEN ducklings out of 11 eggs.

Wow.

Even out Corgi is amazed.

Life is just filled with miracles. We had no idea how long our Rouen hen had left the nest. No idea how long she'd been sitting on them ( you need to stop turning the eggs in the incubator a few days before anticipated hatching ). No idea if they were even fertile.

But God knew. We lost one hen and now have 7 little lives to replace her.

Isn't life grand??

The Future of Bookstores

2011-07-20T21:02:00.000-07:00

Borders will be closing all their stores...soon.

That's mega sad. The end of an era. Probably the very threshold of a change I don't know I like.

While I can't say I've always known I wanted to be a writer, I do know I've always loved to read. Libraries were my favorite hangouts all through school, the Dewey Decimal System enabling to me to find volumes of information in a snap, and leading me to genres I never thought about investigating. All through high school I was an avid Ray Bradbury fan. Or I thought I was until a friend loaned me a copy of Shanna by Kathleen Woodiwiss and I discovered my reading passion had little to do with alien planets, LOL!

But really, let's save that for another post!!

Back to brick and mortar stores. I love the feel of them; the smell of them; the kid-in-a-candystore giddiness that overcomes me when I step through the doors. I'm such an impulse buyer, I'll always walk out with a volume of something -- usually a cookbook. My husband still shakes his head over that. My dedication to cooking flew out the window when I went back to work full time!

Still, there's nothing more satisfying than strolling the aisles and running a finger down spines of novels, wishing one of them bore my name. Now that I have a book on the shelves, the thrill is compounded by the fact I can run my finger down the spine of MY book. Wow. This may be completely selfish, but I don't want to ever lose that thrill because cyber stores and ebooks are the wave of the future.

I do have a Kindle, and I love it. I love buying friends books as soon as they're available. I love having an entire library in my purse for all the times I'm waiting for appointments and meetings. The Kindle, the Nook, all eReaders are nice, but...

They're not books.

If you do anything this week, go out and support your local bookstore. Walk in, grab a cup of coffee, thumb through a magazine (and then buy it). Drink in the atmosphere. Enjoy while you can.

The priviledge may be gone before we know it.

The Carol Award Finalists Announced!

2011-07-12T20:16:00.000-07:00

American Christian Fiction Writers announced the finalists for the Carol Award for published writers:

Debut Novel:
The Preacher’s Bride by Jody Hedlund (Bethany House - Dave Long/Sharon Asmus, Editors)
Crossing Oceans by Gina Holmes (Tyndale Publishers - Kathryn Olson, Editor)
Rooms by James L. Rubart (B&H Publishing - Julee Schwarzburg, Editor)

Long Contemporary:
The Choice by Suzanne Woods Fisher (Revell - Andrea Doering, Editor)
Red Ink by Kathi Macias (New Hope Publishers - Randy Bishop, Editor)
Never Say Never by Lisa Wingate (Bethany House - Dave Long, Editor)

Long Contemporary Romance:
Plain Jayne by Hilary Manton Lodge (Harvest House - Kim Moore, Editor)
Anna’s Return by Marta Perry (Berkley - Ellen Edwards, Editor)
Plain Paradise by Beth Wiseman (Thomas Nelson - Natalie Hanemann, Editor)

Long Historical:
Here Burns My Candle by Liz Curtis Higgs (Waterbrook Press - Laura Barker, Editor)
Petra: City in Stone by T.L. Higley (B&H Publishing - Karen Ball, Editor)
Sons of Thunder by Susan May Warren (Summerside Press – Susan Downs, Editor)

Long Historical Romance:
The Husband Tree by Mary Connealy (Barbour - Rebecca Germany, Editor)
Love Finds You In Homestead, Iowa by Melanie Dobson (Summerside - Rachel Meisel/Connie Troyer, Editors)
Courting Morrow Little by Laura Frantz (Revell - Andrea Doering, Editor)

Mystery:
Mirrored Image by Alice K. Arenz (Sheaf House - Joan M. Shoup, Editor)
Muslin Mystery by Vera Dodge (Guideposts - Beth Adams, Editor)
The Camera Never Lies by Elizabeth Goddard (Barbour – Rebecca Germany, Editor)

Novellas:
The Prodigal Groom by Vickie McDonough (Barbour – Rebecca Germany, Editor)
Ride With Me Into Christmas by Rachael Phillips (Barbour – Rebecca Germany, Editor)
A Trusting Heart by Carrie Turansky (Barbour – Rebecca Germany, Editor)

Romantic Suspense:
The Silent Order by Melanie Dobson (Summerside Press - Rachel Meisel/Susan Downs, Editors)
Don’t Look Back by Lynette Eason (Revell - Andrea Doering, Editor)
Pursuit of Justice by DiAnn Mills (Tyndale Publishers - Karen Watson, Editor)

Short Contemporary:
The Wedding Garden by Linda Goodnight (Love Inspired - Allison Lyons)
A Father for Zach by Irene Hannon (Love Inspired - Melissa Endlich, Editor)
Winter’s End by Ruth Logan Herne (Love Inspired - Melissa Endlich, Editor)

Short Contemporary Suspense:
Night Prey by Sharon Dunn (Love Inspired Suspense - Emily Rodmell, Editor)
Legacy of Lies by Jill Elizabeth Nelson (Love Inspired Suspense - Emily Rodmell, Editor)
Firestorm by Kelly Ann Riley (Love Inspired Suspense - Tina James, Editor)

Short Historical:
Her Healing Ways by Lyn Cote (Love Inspired Historical - Tina James, Editor)
Promise of Tomorrow by S. Dionne Moore (Barbour - JoAnne Simmons, Editor)
The Columns of Cottonwood by Sandra Robbins (Barbour - JoAnne Simmons, Editor)

Speculative Fiction:
The Wolf of Tebron by C. S. Lakin (AMG Publishers - Rick Steele, Editor)
Rooms by James L. Rubart (B&H Publishing - Julee Schwarzburg, Editor)
König’s Fire by Marc Schooley (Marcher Lord Press – Jeff Gerke, Editor)

Suspense/Thriller:
Predator by Terri Blackstock (Zondervan - Sue Brower/Dave Lambert, Editors)
Fear No Evil by Robin Caroll (B&H Publishing – Karen Ball, Editor)
Medical Error by Richard L. Mabry (Abingdon Press – Barbara Scott, Editor)

Women’s Fiction:
Beaded Hope by Cathy Liggett (Tyndale Publishers - Jan Stob/Lorie Popp, Editors)
They Almost Always Come Home by Cynthia Ruchti (Abingdon – Barbara Scott, Editor)
Beyond Summer by Lisa Wingate (NAL - Ellen Edwards, Editor)

Young Adult:
Anything But Normal by Melody Carlson (Revell - Lonnie Hull Dupont, Editor)
Healer’s Apprentice by Melanie Dickerson (Zonderkidz - Jacque Alberta, Editor)
Katy’s New World by Kim Vogel Sawyer (Zonderkidz - Jacque Alberta, Editor)

I judged a panel for this contest and have to say, the quality of published work was superb. I can't imagine choosing only 3 finalists for each category. Really? They're all winners to me!!

Congratulations, finalists!! Especially Mary Connealy and Ruth Logan Herne! Cheering loudly for Melanie Dickerson, Kim Vogel Sawyer, Laura Frantz, too!!Your stars shine brightly and I can't wait to cheer for you in St. Louis!!

American Christian Fiction Writers Conference, September 22-25, 2011, St. Louis, MO

Let's Talk In-y and Out-y

2011-07-07T00:05:00.000-07:00

I know -- belly buttons come to mind, but honestly, it's workspace technique I'm talking about here.

Come join the fun in Seekerville as I talk about how I organize my writing necessaries and then the rest of the Seekers chime in with their favorite methods.

How can you miss an opportunity like this to crawl into the inner workings of a writer's mind? Spooky prospect, but well worth peeking into, LOL!

Golden Heart and Rita Awards Ceremony

2011-07-01T16:40:00.000-07:00

Couldn't make it to New York City for the RWA Conference, but I can follow fun at the awards ceremony on Twitter! Go to #rwa11 and cheer your loudest for your favorite finalist!

YAY - Pam Hillman!! Finalist for Inspirational Romance,

Golden Heart

Stealing Jake

YAY - Mary Connealy!! Finalist for Inspirational Romance,

Rita

Doctor in Petticoats - Barbour Publishing

I'm rootin' for you here in Colorado!!

WOOOOOHOOOOOO!!

Putting Life Back into Perspective

2011-06-29T00:35:00.000-07:00

Life tends to get hectic, doesn't it though? I know I'm not the only one to feel overwhelmed when I look around and think, "how in the world am I ever going to get all this work done?" May and June were especially difficult months with kids returning home from college, revising and polishing my msc for my editor, plans to build a house, preparation for our County Fair,...the list goes on and on.

You'd think I'd have time to just write a few words here to let y'all know I'm still alive. LOL!!

Well, I am and I'm finally coming up for air. Manuscript is sent off, kids are settled back in the nest and at work, house has a foundation and septic system (both very necessary entities!). Whew, and before the Fair really takes off, I thought I'd better catch up with the important elements in life.

Reading.
Writing.
Friends.

Life is shorter than we all realize. We need to make the most of whatever time the good Lord gives us. I hope I've put my time to good use, but as anyone who REALLY knows me can testify, I'm very easily distracted. Which can be taken as a good thing : ) As long as I remember to return to original tasks and complete them : )

So, I'm cleaning my office -- and the rest of my house -- clearing away the clutter. I want to spend time with you here on my blog. I want to spend some summertime moments out on our deck just looking out over God's handiwork, because really, is there any place more beautiful than home? I want to live in the moment and give thanks for all the blessings in my life.

Before I sign off for the day, let me invite you to view a YouTube clip compiled by my friend, Theresa Rizzo. Theresa has nailed the writing journey for what it is...when we keep it in perspective. Thanks for taking the time to put this together, Theresa! And yes, there will come a time when pigs fly for all of us!

Theresa Rizzo's Writing Journey

Booksigning in Cheyenne

2011-06-27T20:40:00.000-07:00

Cheyenne, WY is known for Cheyenne Frontier Days

Yep, it's late, but I wanted to share my booksigning with you. I drove up to Cheyenne, WY on June 4 and spent the day with Amanda Cabot and Penny Zeller signing books at two bookstores. Amanda and I have been friends for a while having first met at our RWA chapter, Colorado Romance Writers, years ago. Most recently though, Amanda leads Front Range Christian Fiction Writers, a group of Christian writers writing various works as the Lord puts on our hearts. Nice mix of folks.

I had the pleasure of meeting Penny at our first booksigning. Wonderful, warm, friendly -- I'm blessed to call her friend. Penny and her family had this booksigning thing down pat -- each member of the family had a specific duty whether arranging books, setting up the computer slide show, or just being cute and attracting customers. LOL! What a fun group!

First stop, Cornerstone Christian Supply. What an amazing, warm reception we received from staff and customers alike. Trisha and her staff set this trio of authors up right next to the register area, no one could miss us. The patrons stopped and chatted, asked about our books, and grabbed butterscotch buttons and chocolates as they investigated their book choices. It was a blast!

Amanda, Audra, Penny at Cornerstone Christian Supply

Audra, Amanda, Trisha, Penny at Cornerstone Christian Supply

Next, we went to the Barnes and Noble store. Again we received a warm welcome including beautiful posters arrranged around the store announcing our event. A constant stream of chatter across the PA system reminded customers to stop by our table and meet the authors. What fun! We talked with fans, discussed the market with aspiring authors, and in general chit-chatted our way through the afternoon.

We even sold books!

Amanda, Audra, Penny at Barnes & Noble

At the end of the day, I drove the hour and a half home with a smile on my face. The generosity of readers continues to astound me. Folks just opened up and treated us kindness and support.

Here's to you, Cheyenne, Wyoming! You sure know how to make a girl feel welcome!

Celebration in Seekerville!!

2011-05-23T00:01:00.000-07:00

I'm back! I've missed everyone terribly, but life got so hectic, my poor head almost exploded!
Yuck, what a mess, LOL!
Nevermind me, though. I've got spectacular news to share...

Do not miss today in Seekerville. There are fireworks on Unpubbed Island

24/7 today to celebrate the BIG FIFTEEN!

Seeker and debut Tyndale author Pam Hillman is your hostess--and she's got more than her 2011 Golden Heart final to share with you.

We'll have a total of 15 prizes--gift cards and books to give away all day long as we celebrate and celebrate...AND CELEBRATE!~!!!

Barbara Vey in Seekerville

2011-04-15T19:34:00.000-07:00

How did Barbara Vey go from a ho-hum job in the insurance industry to being Publishers Weekly’s spokesperson for romance? Read her story on Seekerville (http://www.seekerville.blogspot.com/), Wed, April 20. Learn what readers tell Barbara about the books they love to buy and how to get your story reviewed on Barbara’s Beyond Her Book blog, where she recently attracted more than 22,000 visitors in one week. Stop by Seekerville on April 20 to chat with Barbara and win one of 23 prizes given away throughout the day!

Romance? It's about time

2011-02-11T05:27:00.000-08:00

Funny how folks think if you're a romance author, you know about, well, romance. Silly people, LOL! I can't say my life is a typical romance, but I wouldn't trade it for the world!

Check out my interview in the Denver Post. My interviewer said right up front, she wanted a fun article to offer guys who might be clueless over how to romance their gals.

What do you think? How did I do?

RITA judging

2011-02-08T05:50:00.000-08:00

As it is over most of the United States, Colorado's temperature for the day is frigid...again.

I was hoping I'd get a snow day from work, but no such luck. I am thankful though that I only drive about 5 minutes to get there instead of a commutes of 30 minutes and more! Though I love road trips, a daily drive of dodging traffic is not my idea of a great start to a day!

This is the first year I'm eligible to judge the RITAs. I received 8 books -- 8 books! -- to ready by March 9. Wow. I have a difficult time sneaking in moments to read the books I want to read much less 8 books assigned for my opinion.

Still, I have to admit, reading outside my writing genre is proving entertaining and relaxing. I've finished 3 books written by authors I never would have known about and am thrilled to say I've enjoyed them. I still have 5 more books to read. May the good Lord grant me time, patience and little eye-strain as I hole up in my office with a hot cup of coffee and finish my judging assignment!

Have a great day all and stay warm!

Blog of the Week pick!

2011-02-04T05:22:00.000-08:00

Had a great day of booksigning memories yesterday over in Seekerville. Jillian Kent named Are You Ready For Your Book Signing as a her choice of blog of the week! Isn't that too cool! Take a minute and visit her blogs. Lots of great stuff there.

Drop by Seekerville

2011-02-03T00:05:00.000-08:00

Drop by Seekerville today where I offer all my wisdom on preparing for a booksigning. LOL! You say, She's had one booksigning and thinks she's an expert, right? Well, no expert here, but the entire event is really fresh in my mind...that should account for something!

Anyway, drop by and leave a comment. Two books are up for grabs!!

Booksigning, Part II

2011-01-30T19:19:00.000-08:00

My very first booksigning was a blast! And to give credit where credit is due, I have to start by thanking Amanda Cabot. Amanda is my amazing friend and gracious leader of our writers group, Front Range Christian Fiction Writers which meets the 4th Saturday of each month at the Barnes and Noble located in The Promenade Shops at Centerra in Loveland, CO. She told Vivian at Barnes and Noble about my sale who then set the date for January 2011.

Vivian is a promotional diva extrordinaire. She took care of ordering books, setting up a table right at the front door, ordering fantastic promo posters, and even keeping me supplied with water. She was wonderful.

Leslie Ann is the best!

Next, the entire day would not have run smoothly if my fellow writer and best friend Le slie Ann Sartor hadn't been by my side assuring me all would be fine. She made a check list of things to take, arranged the signing table with all the goodies and was the most amazing hostess!! She directed folks to the guest book and offered them an opportunity to win one of two baskets if they put their name in a drawing. She even took care of getting the winners to Vivian so she would announce the winners. My day would NOT have been as good, as memorable, as exciting if Leslie had not been there with me.

My family!

Gotta make a plug for my family. My son drove down from school and was the first guest there. Then husband and daughter showed up. They were so gracious and entertaining. I love them for all the support they give me -- always.

I couldn't ask to work with a better
group of gals

And then of course, the guests. Oh my word, did we have a crowd! All my cohorts from work showed up with family and friends in tow. They all had a hand in dressing me. Kim provided the boots, Lisa the jacket and skirt, and Amy the opinions. I'm humbled that they gave up a Saturday afternoon to come and support me at my signing. Hmmm, maybe the promise of chocolate for all had more pull than I thought, LOL! The biggest surprise came with a couple of friends showed up that I had worked with 25 years ago and hadn't seen since. Wow. The fact that Merilee and Craig drove to Denver from Pueblo and Manitou Springs almost made me cry.

I could go on and on, but really, that would just be me blubbering in my joy. Saturday, January 22 was such a blessing to me. I'm wondering if maybe the angels God sent to supervise the day didn't have a good time, too. And maybe, just maybe they snatched a chocolate or two...

Thank you everyone for your prayers and support.

There'll never again be a first booksigning!!

Incredible review

2011-01-28T04:49:00.000-08:00

Learning to juggle my time between debut book launching, full time job, family AND finishing book two to send to editor, at times, I don't know which way to turn! Please be patient with me as I learn to shuffle all the pieces of my life in place AND have time left over for an occasional episode of NCIS!

LOL!

I promise I'll have pic of my booksigning up this weekend.

In the meantime, please check out Andrea's Take, a wonderful blog with tips and insights you don't want to miss. She reviewed Rocky Mountain Hero and left me speechless! Thanks Andrea!

Booksigning, Part 1

2011-01-23T08:33:00.000-08:00

What a great day at Barnes & Noble!

My very first ever booksigning was the best experience ever.

AND it was made the best by all the friends, family and readers who stopped by to visit!!

More on the booksigning coming, but right now, I want to announce the winners of my hourly drawings:

Dena Netherton

and

Brooke Hageman

Dena, Brooke - thanks for joining the fun! I'll be contacting you!

Booksigning!

2011-01-20T05:43:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it's been a year since I received The Call!

Now I'm getting ready for my very first BOOKSIGNING!

WooHoo!!

Come join the fun at Barnes and Noble

located in

The Promenade Shops at Centerra, Loveland CO

Saturday, January 22, 2011
1:00 - 3:00 pm

For directions, please visit my website
http://www.audraharders.com/

Chocolates will be provided along with a drawing for a special prize!

See you there!

Christmas break ends

2011-01-18T05:38:00.000-08:00

It's been a hectic couple of weeks. As Christmas break wound down for my kids, so their to-do lists wound up. All the things they wanted to do as break stretched before them, became a mass confusion of completion at the end.

Ha! Nice to know some things never change : )

The kids are back up at college now where they belong and our house is quiet. Maybe too quiet. We might have to take in a boarder or two just to liven things up.

I'm in the final round of my tweaks of this manuscript before I send it to my editor. It's been a long haul, but a great learning experience. I've been writing romance for YEARS. Who would've thought turning in a second book to my editor would be so angst-ridden??

If you have any spare prayers, they would be greatly appreciated!!

Book Sighting!!

2011-01-09T09:43:00.000-08:00

Check this out!

Dear friend of mine and Seekerville's has located

Rocky Mountain Hero (Audra Harders) and

The Rancher's Reunion (Tina Radcliffe) in California!!

I just love going national!!

Thanks Keli!!

Making Choices

2011-01-06T00:10:00.000-08:00

Come join me in Seekerville today where I talk about the difficult time I have making Choices. Aren't there times you just want it all?? It's too painful to pick one over another?

It's the timeless problem I deal with as life spreads a buffet of choices before me each day.

What's a girl to do?

And if you share a comment, you might win a copy of Rocky Mountain Hero or A Rancher's Reunion!

Sharing

2011-01-03T19:20:00.000-08:00

My husband is a very generous fellow. And usually, I love him for it. Except this weekend when he shared his indefinable illness with the rest of the family. Aches, pains and fuzzy head have dogged me for the last two days. Even had to take today off from work so I wouldn't spread the cheer. Can you believe that? Call in sick the day after New Year's weekend. Can't wait to see the ribbing I get when I go in tomorrow, LOL!

Is this any way to begin the New Year? I mean, really? Well, I guess if you're checking off items accomplished, I can scratch *getting sick* off my to-do list for 2011 now. Wouldn't that be great? Ha, in my Nyquil sustained dreams : )

May your year start out better than mine everyone! And if by some chance I DON'T get sick again in 2011, look for my New Year's eve post telling the world of my incredible discovery!!!

Blessings!!!

Happy New Year!!

2011-01-01T20:02:00.000-08:00

Welcome 2011! Can you believe it? 2011? I remember all the nail biting and disaster foraging for 2000 just like it was yesterday. We've come a long way. No longer are we worried about the Y2K bug getting us~~now we wonder, day to day, what staple in the world is going to change next. LOL! Don't blink. You'll miss out on something!

I'll be the first to admit I haven't been very faithful in posting my journey through life along with tidbits of cleverness from others. I'm sorry.

If you visit Seekerville on December 30 -- waaaaay back last year -- you'll find an incredibly invigorating and thought provoking post by Tina Radcliffe on chosing the One Word for your life. Read this post. Completely makes you rethink the whole notion of New Year's Revolutions - or resolutions - as folks are fond of saying : )

As Tina says, "The concept of My One Word is to pick one word and allow God to use that word to mold and shape you in 2011."

One word. One. How in the world is a writer, or any avid reader for that matter, supposed to choose just one word?

Well, after long hard study of my personality and what I really need God's help with in my life, I've chosen the word:

Choices.

As in making them. If I've learned one thing about me over my lifetime, it's that I'm not good at making choices.

Not to be confused with making bad choices. Please.

More like making choices, period. Choosing between one activity and another. One event. One project. One hobby.

A very wise friend once told me, "Time does not expand to encompass all you want to do. You must choose the best use of your time."

Wow. What a concept. And that's exactly what I'm going to do in 2011. Believe me, this is not going to be easy.

Plan ahead. Schedule. Say no.

I'm posting reminders already. I'm scribbling down goals, then reassessing them for importance. Is it a necessity or a desire? Through the early stages of these decisions, necessity will win out.

With some leeway time for Emergencies.

Have you chosen a One Word yet? Try it. It's not as easy as it looks. Well worth it though.

Happy New Year!!

Shipping now!

2010-12-21T04:45:00.000-08:00

News flash!

Amazon is shipping Rocky Mountain Hero.

NOW.

EARLY.

What a Christmas present, LOL!

Available in paperback and Kindle editions!

You can download it to your Kindle in moments!!

Thanks Steeple Hill!

Visit me at...

2010-12-16T00:39:00.000-08:00

Join me at Petticoats and Pistols today. Of course my topic is Rocky Mountain Hero. Leave a comment and you might win a copy!

The fillies over there are the greatest.

Harlequin Open House

2010-12-14T00:01:00.000-08:00

Drop in during Harlequin's Open House for the Holidays.

I'll be chatting as I can, since of course, my day job boss wouldn't understand my taking a day off for someone else's party, LOL! Still, the day is long and who doesn't want to talk cowboy.

I mean, really!!

Lots of authors will be there. Come and join the fun!

Are things any different now?

2010-12-13T00:10:00.000-08:00

December, 2 BC (Give or take a couple years)
Bethlehem: The streets are bustling with activity. All around, merchants and innkeepers are doing a brisk business for a census has been decreed and all must comply to registration, each to his own city.

December, 2002 AD (Give or take a couple years)

Big City, USA: The streets are bustling with activity. All around, mega-malls and convention centers are packed with travelers and residents alike, each conducting their own business, each off to their appointed city.

2 BC

At the time of Christ’s birth, the angels announced, the shepherds praised and sang, the wise men bore gifts, yet all across the land, the people lived their lives oblivious to the miracle which had come into this world.

2010 AD

At the time of Christ’s birthday, the preachers proclaim, the believers sing praise, congregations worship, yet all across the metropolitan area, people live their lives oblivious to the salvation offered to this world.

Some things just don’t change, do they?

What can we do to bring Christ back into Christmas? An overwhelming task to say the least, but every road is paved one brick at a time. How about this Christmas you choose an "oblivious" friend or relative and make a special effort to show them the joy of Christmas beyond the tinsel and paper. Spread Christ’s salvation by giving a special ornament or book containing the message of salvation. Send cards that speak of the true meaning of Christmas.

Or hey, how about this. . .bring a friend to a Children’s Christmas program!

Be creative in your encouragement, pray the Spirit helps you, and smile with the joy that fills your heart knowing you’re giving Christ the best present of all for His birthday.

And the angel said to them, "Be not afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy which will come to all the people; for to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. Luke 2:10-11 RSV.

Blessings to all!

Novel Writing Made Easy

2010-12-02T00:30:00.000-08:00

Join me today in Seekerville where I claim I have the secret to Novel Writing Made Easy. Really, there is no such thing, but I found a awesome tool on the Internet that I think will help you out.

Plus, I'll be giving away a copy of Rocky Mountain Hero to a lucky commentor who completed the 50K word challenge last month for NaNoWriMo AND I'll be giving away another copy just because, LOL!

Ahh, the Christmas spirit. Ain't it grand??

See you in Seekerville!

NaNoWriMo ~~ YAY!

2010-11-29T14:00:00.000-08:00

Friends and family help me celebrate! I finished the NaNoWriMo challenge on November 27 with 52,634 words. Wow. The writing isn't pretty, but it gives me something to fix : )

National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) is every November. The concept challenges novelist and writers of any sort, to push themselves and their creativity. 50,000 words written in one month. If you're looking at writing a rough draft, it's pretty sweet.

You don't have time to edit.

You don't have time to plot.

You just write.

Frankly, I have a terrible time plotting out books. I spend too much time thinking and then my characters make unwise choices. NaNoWriMo gives your mind the freedom to write, to listen to your characters and let them show the direction they want to move in.

For me, my rough draft makes sense.

Like I said, my rough draft is not pretty, but I can clean it up. It's getting the book out of my head and on to the screen that's the hard part. Now that the journey is behind me, I work on the landscaping, the relationships and the roadblocks.

It's all good : )

Mark your calendars. November 2011. NaNoWriMo. Accept the challenge!

2010-11-25T11:33:00.000-08:00

Enjoy a happy and blessed Thanksgiving! May we always remember to give thanks for all the blessings God has poured on our nation. May we keep them in mind now more than ever and remember the visions our founding fathers embraced. Blessings to you! ~~ audra

A Thanksgiving Proclamation

October 3, 1789

Whereas it is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favor; and Whereas both Houses of Congress have, by their joint committee, requested me to recommend to the people of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer, to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many and signal favors of Almighty God, especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness:

Now, therefore, I do recommend and assign Thursday, the 26th day of November next, to be devoted by the people of these States to the service of that great and glorious Being who is the beneficent author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be; that we may then all unite in rendering unto Him our sincere and humble thanks for His kind care and protection of the people of this country previous to their becoming a nation; for the signal and manifold mercies and the favorable interpositions of His providence in the course and conclusion of the late war; for the great degree of tranquility, union, and plenty which we have since enjoyed; for the peaceable and rational manner in which we have been enable to establish constitutions of government for our safety and happiness, and particularly the national one now lately instituted for the civil and religious liberty with which we are blessed, and the means we have of acquiring and diffusing useful knowledge; and, in general, for all the great and various favors which He has been pleased to confer upon us.

And also that we may then unite in most humbly offering our prayers and supplications to the great Lord and Ruler of Nations and beseech Him to pardon our national and other transgressions; to enable us all, whether in public or private stations, to perform our several and relative duties properly and punctually; to render our National Government a blessing to all the people by constantly being a Government of wise, just, and constitutional laws, discreetly and faithfully executed and obeyed; to protect and guide all sovereigns and nations (especially such as have shown kindness to us), and to bless them with good governments, peace, and concord; to promote the knowledge and practice of true religion and virtue, and the increase of science among them and us; and, generally to grant unto all mankind such a degree of temporal prosperity as He alone knows to be best.

Given under my hand, at the city of New York, the 3rd day of October, A.D. 1789.

~~ George Washington ~~

Congratulations, Donnell!!

2010-11-06T12:41:00.000-07:00

I'm so pleased to announce my friend and fellow Scribe Donnell Ann Bell has sold her 2007 Golden Heart finaling book, Walk Away, Joe to Bell Bridge Books!!

For more on her amazing sale, drop in at Five Scribes and congratulate her!!

YAY!!

DONNELL!!

So You Think You Can Write

2010-11-02T07:52:00.000-07:00

Ever dreamed of becoming a writer? The editors at Harlequin want to make those dreams a reality! All this week they're offering insights and activities to help you hone your skills.

Come join the fun start making your dreams come true!

Ready...Set...Write!!

2010-11-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

NaNoWriMo starts TODAY!!

Are you signed up?

Ready to write 50,000 words in 30 days??

Let's go!!

You can do it...

...NaNoWriMo can help!!

2010-10-30T08:53:00.000-07:00

Look what just landed in our field. Isn't this too cool??

We've had balloons land across the street and down a few fields, but never land this close.

What fun for a Saturday morning.

More fun than cartoons!!

2010-10-20T20:48:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I can finally show off my cover for Rocky Mountain Hero! The cover artist captured the essence of my fictional Circle D Ranch and did a beautiful job with Gabe!

Rocky Mountain Hero is my debut book with Steeple Hill Love Inspired.

Look for it January 2011.

Rocky Mountain Hero is available for preorder!!

Don't wait! Order your copy now!

Birthday Party in Seekerville!

2010-10-01T10:59:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone!

Today kicks off the 3rd Birthday Bash in Seekerville.

Prizes!!

Special Guests!!

Food!!

Did I mention Prizes??!!

Stop by and comment and be popped into the drawing for some really cool stuff.

Stop by especially today because I'M hosting! One lucky recipient will walk aaway with a B & N gift card, an IOU for my Steeple Hill Love Inspired, January 2011 debut book Rocky Mountain Hero, a CD of Chris LeDoux Greatest Hits, and of course, chocolate!!

2010-09-30T13:22:00.000-07:00

SO ... WHAT'S BETTER THAN READING

A JULIE LESSMAN NOVEL?????

WINNING ONE!!! ALONG WITH PRIZES GALORE, INCLUDING A KINDLE PRE-LOADED WITH A HOPE UNDAUNTED, AMAZON.COM, STARBUCKS AND NETFLIX GIFT CARDS AND MUCH MORE!!!

Julie's "Technology and Romance" Giveaway contest is going on NOW in celebration of the release of A Hope Undaunted, so don't miss out!! You'll find all the details on Julie's website at: http://www.julielessman.com/contest/.

THEN ... on THURSDAY, OCTOBER 7 at 7:00 PM CST, join Julie at her Facebook party to CHAT WITH HER AND WIN prizes given away every ten minutes for a solid hour!! The winners will be announced at the party, so here's to a win!!

DON'T FORGET TO MARK YOUR CALENDERS!!! HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!!!

ACFW Conference Pics!!

2010-09-28T19:32:00.000-07:00

Seekers at play before the kick off of the conference.Janet's daughter graciously allowed us use of her gorgeous house outside of Indianapolis for our party that included burgers, cake and conversation!! From left: Myra Johnson, Janet Dean, Debby Giusti, Audra Harders, Missy Tippens, Mary Connealy

Lucky me! I got to hang out with Pepper Basham and Angie Dickens -- two up and coming stars who had fabulous pitches prepared for their chosen editors and agents. These two ladies came prepared!

I can't begin to tell you how well we were fed! And the artistic design of each meal -- to die for!

Julie Lessman, Anita Mae Draper and Myra Johnson

Sara Richardson and Wendy Paine Miller show off their great taste in bags : )

How lucky was I to share a lunch with Cynthia Ruchti, ACFW President?

Seems like all you do is smile, LOL!

Erica Vetsch and Mary Connealy

Look at all the ribbons attached to Kim's name tag!

Audra Harders and Kim Vogel Sawyer

Emily Rodmell, my editor, Audra Harders, and Tina James, editor of Steeple Hill Love Inspired, LI Suspense, and LI Historical

I have plenty of pictures left. Don't want to use them all in one post!!

2010-09-26T00:11:00.000-07:00

The Seekerville party schedule is now up. Our birthday bash is October 1-31. We have an awesome line up of guests...Steeple Hill Assistant Editor Emily Rodmell, Bob Mayer, Stanley D. Williams, Patty Hall, Nancy Kress, Debra Dixon, Caroline Tolley, Jeff Gerke, and the Usual Suspects. Don’t forget our pre-party guests, Avalon Editor Lia Brown, authors Angi Morgan, Sara Mitchell & Barbara White Daille and our exciting post-party guests include authors Alicia Rasley, and Cat Shield. Stop by for a chance to win CRITIQUES, GIFT CARDS, BOOKS and the GRAND BIRTHDAY PRESENT--a Kindle loaded with Seeker books.

Review - A Hope Undaunted

2010-09-25T09:49:00.000-07:00

A beautiful, rich, spoiled brat and a handsome lawyer with street roots. Hmm, how much more opposite can you get?? Heh, heh, heh -- but it works.

Julie Lessman does it again with A Hope Undaunted, the first book of her Winds of Change series. As the back blurb states:

The 1920's are drawing to a close, and feisty Katie O'Connor is the epitome of the new woman -- smart and sassy with goals for her future that include the perfect husband and a challenging career in law. Her boyfriend Jack fits all of her criteria for a husband -- good-looking, well-connected, wealthy, and eating out of her hand. But when she is forced to spend the summer of 1929 with Luke McGee, the bane of her childhood existence, Katie comes face-to-face with a choice. Will she follow her well-laid plans to marry Jack? Or will she fall for the man she swore to despise forever?

A story cann't get much better than that, can it? Rich with emotion, description and romance, Ms. Lessman gives us a glimpse into the grown-up characters of Katie O'Connor and Luke McGee - or you might remember him as Cluny McGee - from her outrageously popular Daughters of Boston series. The family saga lives on as Faith, Charity, Lizzie and all the rest pop in and out of the pages of Katie and Luke's journey of discovery, faith and love.

Ms. Lessman polishes her own facet on the diamond of inspirational romance to a brilliant shine. Known for her edgy romances, she's gifted us with another slice of nostalgia sure to live on in our hearts long after the last page turns.

To say the least, I cracked open the book and couldn't put it down until I finished. Romance at its finest!

Review - Made To Order Family

2010-09-24T10:14:00.000-07:00

How can a woman betrayed so thoroughly by her late husband ever think of loving a man who once again keeps his own thoughts and secrets steadfastly to himself? Made To Order Family showcases love and forgiveness, and the occasional boot-in-the-pants, with flair.

Here's a peek at the back cover:

Single mom Rita Slocum wants to get her life back on track. Taking things one day at a time seems doable -- especially with Brooks Harriman at her side. Brooks has been there for her through good times and bad. But she's always been leery of getting too close to the broad-shouldered woodworker who keep his past locked away. Now that Rita's opening her own bakery, she needs him more than ever. If only Brooks would open up his life -- and his heart -- to Rita.

Doesn't that just make you sigh? From page one, Ruth Logan Herne draws you into a life that could mirror any typical person, only the lives of Rita and Brooks reflect unique from the get go. Both are recovering alcoholics, learning to take one day at a time. Only Rita's life includes three children with issues of their own, and Brooks struggles to deal with a past filled with betrayal and deception.

The story that unfolds on the pages of this book will simmer in your heart way after you read The End.

Neither of them are looking for love -- really, they hold anything resembling love at arms length. At times, you really don't see a viable resolution. Don't let that fool you, though. Ms Herne delivers a book filled with heart and hope...and a very satisfying ending.

Happy Birthday, Seekerville!!

2010-09-19T11:02:00.000-07:00

Come join the fun all month long.

Stop in Friday, October 1st when I host the celebration!

http://www.seekerville.blogspot.com/

WooHoo

2010 ACFW Conference in Indianapolis

2010-09-18T12:30:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone! The weather is sunny and bright here in Indianapolis where I’m attending the 2010 ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) conference. Well, I think it’s sunny…I haven’t really left the hotel complex since noon yesterday.

To be honest, a hurricane could be barreling our way and I’d never know….

Myra, Janet, Debby, me, Missy, Mary at Janet's daughter's house having a pre-conference party. WooHoo!

The conference kicked off at 3:00pm on Friday with an opening and general session of all the attendees. This year’s conference is hosting 620 attendees -- the total number more if you count friends and spouses who join us for meals. It’s fun to see and meet all my Internet friends who are just as delightful in person as their words are scrolling across my screen.

me, Patti, Julie Sara, Laura, Wendy enjoying the terrific food at a great Mexican restaurant

Our keynote speaker this year is Tim Downs. An incredible man whose interests are as diversified as his writing. I look forward to hearing him speak again.

Also of note, James Scott Bell hosted an early bird session before the conference kicked off. Unfortunately, this was not in my budget and I was unable to attend, but those who did came away with pages of notes and almost all his Plot and Structure books are gone from the bookstore.

On a personal high, I attended the Steeple Hill editor meet and greet last night. Okay, I’ll admit it, I had newbie written all over my face as I participated in an event hosted for their authors only. Wow. Tina James and Emily Rodmell gave us an overview of the changes and new ideas for the lines. Love Inspired (my line!) releases 6 books a month, Love Inspired Suspense offers 4, and in January 2011, Love Inspired Historical will increase their monthly offering to 4.

Cheryl Wyatt, Janet Dean, Missy Tippens, me, Emily Rodmell, Debby Guisti, Glynna Sirpless, Myra Johnson at the Steeple Hill Spotlight

If you have an inspirational concept with romance the primary plot point, send your query in to Steeple Hill! They are actively acquiring for all three lines and you don’t need an agent to submit to them.

Late night activities included the Seekerville (another blog I belong to) tradition of hosting our informal gathering each night in the lounge area. 12 of our 15 Seekers are in attendance this year and we welcome all to come and enjoy with us. Our mission? NO ONE is to feel left out. You’re always among friends in Seekerville.

Okay, have to get back to workshops. More updates come soon!

Join Me In Seekerville

2010-09-02T00:10:00.000-07:00

TODAY!

With the 2010 American Christian Fiction Writers just around the corner, I'm posting about Conference Survival. Stop by and leave a comment. You might end up with a gift certificate to Starbucks!!

See you there!

Photo Anyone?

2010-08-20T07:30:00.000-07:00

The official ACFW Conference photographer for the 2010 conference, Amber

Zimmerman, of The Clik Chick Photography will be taking appointments for a

photo session with authors in Indianapolis. Seekerville is thrilled to offer

you the opportunity to meet Amber on Monday, August 23rd at

www.seekerville.blogspot.com

And that's not all!

Amber has graciously offered a free photo session to one lucky person

attending the ACFW conference. To be eligible, you must be registered to

attend the 2010 ACFW Conference in Indianapolis, Indiana. The winner will be

chosen from visitors who comment on Amber's blog post before midnight August

23rd, 2010.

Mark your calendar and drop by to say hi to Amber at

www.seekerville.blogspot.com, and for a chance to win your very own photo

shoot.

To learn more about Amber, visit www.theclikchick.com

Friendship

2010-08-11T10:27:00.000-07:00

A dear friend sent this to me and I just couldn't help but pass it on. I wish I knew who originally wrote it to give them credit.

ALL VITAL THREADS

A mouse looked through the crack in the wall to see the farmer and his wife open a package. "What food might this contain?", the mouse wondered. He was devastated to discover it was a mousetrap.

Retreating to the farmyard, the mouse proclaimed this warning : "There is a mousetrap in the house!

The chicken clucked and scratched, raised her head and said, "Mr. Mouse, I can tell this is a grave concern to you, but it is of no consequence to me. I cannot be bothered by it."

The mouse turned to the pig and told him, "There is a mousetrap in the house!

The pig sympathized, but said, "I am so very sorry, Mr. Mouse, but there is nothing I can do about it but pray. Be assured you are in my prayers."

The mouse turned to the cow and said, "There is a mousetrap in the house!

The cow said, "Wow, Mr. Mouse. I'm sorry for you, but it's no skin off my nose."

So, the mouse returned to the house, head down and dejected, to face the farmer's mousetrap alone.

That very night a sound was heard throughout the house -- the sound of a mousetrap catching its prey. The farmer's wife rushed to see what was caught. In the darkness, she did not see it was a venomous snake whose tail was caught in the trap.

The snake bit the farmer's wife. The farmer rushed her to the hospital. When she returned home she still had a fever. Everyone knows you treat a fever with fresh chicken soup. So the farmer took his hatchet to the farmyard for the soup's main ingredient.

But his wife's sickness continued. Friends and neighbors came to sit with her around the clock. To feed them, the farmer butchered the pig.

But, alas, the farmer's wife did not get well. She died.

So many people came for her funeral that the farmer had the cow slaughtered to provide enough meat for all of them for the funeral luncheon.

And the mouse looked upon it all from his crack in the wall with great sadness.

So, the next time you hear someone is facing a problem and you think it doesn't concern you, remember --- When one of us is threatened, we are all at risk. We are all involved in this journey called life. We must keep an eye out for one another and make an extra effort to encourage one another.

EACH OF US IS A VITAL THREAD IN ANOTHER PERSON'S TAPESTRY. OUR LIVES ARE WOVEN TOGETHER FOR A REASON. And one of the best things to hold onto in this world is a FRIEND.

2010-08-05T00:01:00.000-07:00

Join us in Seekerville today as I host Keli Gwyn, 2010 Golden Heart finalist.Keli is the investigative reporter/hostess of Romance Writer on the Journey and a shining example of talent and spirit. Here's a little bit about Keli:

Award-winning novelist Keli Gwyn was a 2010 Golden Heart® finalist who finaled in 2008 as well. Her inspirational historicals are set in the heart of California’s Gold Country. She’s represented by Rachelle Gardner of WordServe Literary.

Keli lives in the Sierra Foothills of California in the historic town of Placerville with her British sports car enthusiast husband and their two skitty kitties, who run for cover every time she happy dances. A recent Empty Nester, she learned to text in order to keep in touch with her college daughter. Keli earned a degree in Mass Communication with the print journalism option. In her pre-motherhood days, she worked as an assistant editor for a small special education textbook publishing company.

When Keli returns from her time-travels to the 1870s, she enjoys taking walks past the Victorian homes in her small town or hiking with her hubby on a local rails-to-trails path that crosses a century-old railroad trestle. She loves to drool her way through the Coach outlet store, inhale the scent of new leather handbags, and dream of adding another one to her wardrobe. A total Taco Bell addict, most of the staff at the restaurant in her hometown knows her order by heart.

Keli is offering a give away of RWA National goodies. Drop by Seekerville, join the fun and leave a comment!

2010-07-30T00:01:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday, Kara!

Wow.

How the years have flown.

You've made life an adventure for all of us to enjoy. We love you, babe!!

God bless you always!

Ruthy does it again!

2010-07-29T20:43:00.000-07:00

Check out the latest book by Ruth Logan Herne! Romantic Times gives her another 4.5 star review! My review will follow soon, but in the meantime, check out the blurb and run to the store for a copy!

Single mom Rita Slocum wants to get her life back on track. Taking things one day at a time seems doable—especially with Brooks Harriman at her side. Brooks has been there for her through good times and bad. But she's always been leery of getting too close to the broad-shouldered woodworker who keeps his past locked away. Now that Rita's opening her own bakery, she needs him more than ever. If only Brooks would open up his life—and his heart—to Rita.

RWA in Orlando!

2010-07-28T20:03:00.000-07:00

This year, the Romance Writers of America is hosting the annual conference in Orlando, Florida. What a hoot! Two thousand romance writers - published and aspiring - cruising around Disney World. Ahh, the mouse will never be the same again.

If you've never been to a RWA conference, you're missing the experience of a lifetime. Endless workshops to help hone your craft, celebrity authors mingling with the mutlitude over chocolates and coffee, book give aways galore. It's as close to heaven on earth as this inspirational author can get : )

Am I there?

No.

Not this year.

But friends are emailing and blogging about their adventures helping me feel right there in all the action. Almost.

Oh well, there's always next year : )

Blessings.

County Fair prep

2010-07-27T05:32:00.000-07:00

I love what I do.

Not only my writing career, although that is tops on my list.

But also my day job as our county 4-H secretary.

I mention this because our office is heading into the most hectic time of the year...the week before the County Fair. So much preparation depends on this week to make the Fair go smoothly for everyone involved and all who visit.

This is the week I prepare all the materials used for judging day -- the culmination of the hard work and efforts of our intrepid 4-H'ers who have spent a year honing skills on selected projects and are ready to display them to the public.

Along with the verbal interview with a judge, of course : )

Ribbons are all waiting to be awarded.

Display racks are being set up as we speak.

Ahhhh, the Fair is just around the corner. I can hardly wait!!

Come join us if you're anywhere near Longmont, CO Aug 3-7th. We'd be happy to see you!!

ACFW finalists announced

2010-07-20T05:22:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to all the finalists! Awards will be announced at the ACFW Awards ceremony in Indianapolis on September 19th!!

**come visit this author in Seekerville!

2010 Carol Award Finalists

Debut Author

Talking to the Dead - Bonnie Grove (David C. Cook Publishing, Nicci Hubert - Editor)

The Kidnapping of Kenzie Thorn - Liz Johnson (Steeple Hill, Elizabeth Mazer - Editor)

Eternity Falls - Kirk Outerbridge (Marcher Lord Press, Jeff Gerke - Editor)

Michal - Jill Eileen Smith (Revell, Lonnie Hull DuPont - Editor)

The Unfinished Gift - Dan Walsh (Revell, Andrea Doering - Editor)

Contemporary Novella - 6 Finalists due to a tie

One Child - Barbara Cameron (Thomas Nelson, Natalie Hanemann - Editor)

When Winter Comes - Barbara Cameron (Thomas Nelson, Natalie Hanemann - Editor)

A Mule Hollow Match - Debra Clopton (Steeple Hill, Krista Stroever - Editor)

The Great Christmas Bowl - Susan May Warren (Tyndale House, Karen Watson - Editor)

A Change of Heart - Beth Wiseman (Thomas Nelson, Natalie Hanemann - Editor)

A Choice to Forgive - Beth Wiseman (Thomas Nelson, Natalie Hanemann- Editor)

Historical Novella

Home Again - Victoria Bylin (Steeple Hill, Emily Rodmell - Editor)

A Breed Apart - Vickie McDonough (Heartsong Presents, JoAnne Simmons - Editor)

Beloved Enemy - Vickie McDonough (Heartsong Presents, JoAnne Simmons - Editor)

Christmas Bells for Dry Creek - Janet Tronstad (Steeple Hill, Tina James - Editor)

A Shelter in the Storm - Carrie Turansky (Barbour Publishing, Rebecca Germany - Editor)

Long Contemporary - 6 Finalists due to a tie

The Familiar Stranger - Christina Berry (Moody Publishers, Paul Santhouse - Editor)

A Widow's Hope - Mary Ellis (Harvest House Publishers, Betty Fletcher - Editor)

The Prayers of Agnes Sparrow - Joyce Magnin (Abingdon Press, Barbara Scott - Editor)

White Picket Fences - Susan Meissner (Waterbrook Press, Shannon Marchese - Editor)

If Tomorrow Never Comes - Marlo Schalesky (Multnomah, Julee Schwarzburg - Editor)

Nothing But Trouble - Susan May Warren (Tyndale House, Karen Watson - Editor)

Long Contemporary Romance

Critical Care - Candace Calvert (Tyndale House, Jan Stob/Lorie Popp - Editors)

Seaside Letters - Denise Hunter (Thomas Nelson, Ami McConnell/Jessica Alvarez - Editors)

Just Between You and Me - Jenny B. Jones (Thomas Nelson, Natalie Hanemann/Jamie Chavez - Editors)

Plain Promise - Beth Wiseman (Thomas Nelson, Natalie Hanemann - Editor)

The Hope of Refuge - Cindy Woodsmall (Waterbrook Press, Shannon Marchese - Editor)

Mystery

The Case of the Mystified M.D. - A.K. Arenz (Sheaf House, Joan M. Shoup - Editor)

Under the Cajun Moon - Mindy Starns Clark (Harvest House Publishers, Kim Moore - Editor)

A String of Murders - Darlene Franklin (Heartsong Mysteries, Susan Downs - Editor)

Polly Dent Loses Grip - S. Dionne Moore (Heartsong Mysteries, Susan Downs - Editor)

Pushing up Daisies - Janice Thompson writing as Janice Hanna (Heartsong Mysteries, Susan Downs - Editor)

Long Historical

A Bride in the Bargain - Deeanne Gist (Bethany House, David Long/Julie Klassen - Editors)

Fit To Be Tied - Robin Lee Hatcher (Zondervan, Sue Brower/Leslie Peterson - Editors)

Look to the East - Maureen Lang (Tyndale House, Stephanie Broene - Editor)

Love's Pursuit - Siri Mitchell (Bethany House, Dave & Sarah Long - Editors)

Stealing Home - Allison Pittman (Multnomah, Alice Crider - Editor)

Long Historical Romance - 8 Finalists due to a tie

Paper Roses - Amanda Cabot (Revell, Vicki Crumpton - Editor)

**Cowboy Christmas - Mary Connealy (Barbour Publishing, Rebecca Germany - Editor)

**Montana Rose - Mary Connealy (Barbour Publishing, Rebecca Germany - Editor)

The Frontiersman's Daughter - Laura Frantz (Revell, Andrea Doering - Editor)

The Believer - Ann Gabhart (Revell, Lonnie Hull DuPont - Editor)

**A Passion Denied - Julie Lessman (Revell, Lonnie Hall DuPont - Editor)

Love Finds You in Poetry, Texas - Janice Thompson writing as Janice Hanna (Summerside Press, Rachel Meisel - Editor)

The Confidential Life of Eugenia Cooper - Kathleen Y’Barbo (Waterbrook Press, Jessica Barnes - Editor)

Short Contemporary

His Cowgirl Bride - Debra Clopton (Steeple Hill, Krista Stroever - Editor)

**Autumn Rains - Myra Johnson (Heartsong Presents, JoAnne Simmons - Editor)

A Wagonload of Trouble - Vickie McDonough (Heartsong Presents, JoAnne Simmons - Editor)

A Texas Ranger's Family - Mae Nunn (Steeple Hill, Melissa Endlich - Editor)

**Dreaming of Home - Glynna Sirpless writing as Glynna Kaye (Steeple Hill, Melissa Endlich - Editor)

Short Contemporary Suspense - 6 Finalists due to a tie

Evidence of Murder - Jill Elizabeth Nelson (Steeple Hill, Emily Rodmell - Editor)

Final Warning - Sandra Robbins (Steeple Hill, Tina James - Editor)

Murder at Eagle Summit - Virginia Smith (Steeple Hill, Krista Stroever - Editor)

Scent of Murder - Virginia Smith (Steeple Hill, Krista Stroever/Tina James - Editors)

Double Take - Jenness Walker (Steeple Hill, Emily Rodmell - Editor)

Code of Honor - Lenora Worth (Steeple Hill, Patience Smith/Tina James - Editors)

Short Historical

Her Patchwork Family - Lyn Cote (Steeple Hill, Tina James - Editor)

The Glassblower - Laurie Alice Eakes (Heartsong Presents, JoAnne Simmons - Editor)

The Outlaw's Lady - Laurie Kingery (Steeple Hill, Melissa Endlich - Editor)

All That Glitters - Lynette Sowell (Heartsong Presents, JoAnne Simmons - Editor)

The Unfinished Gift - Dan Walsh (Revell, Andrea Doering)

Speculative (includes Science Fiction, Fantasy, Allegory) - 6 Finalists due to a tie

Eternity Falls - Kirk Outerbridge (Marcher Lord Press, Jeff Gerke - Editor)

The Vanishing Sculptor - Donita K. Paul (Waterbrook Press, Shannon Marchese - Editor)

The Word Reclaimed - Steve Rzasa (Marcher Lord Press, Jeff Gerke - Editor)

Starfire - Stuart Vaughn Stockton (Marcher Lord Press, Jeff Gerke - Editor)

The Muse - Fred Warren (Splashdown Books, Grace Bridges - Editor)

By Darkness Hid - Jill Williamson (Marcher Lord Press, Jeff Gerke - Editor)

Suspense/Thriller

Intervention - Terri Blackstock (Zondervan, Sue Brower/Dave Lambert - Editors)

Lonestar Secrets - Colleen Coble (Thomas Nelson, Ami McConnell - Editor)

Exposure - Brandilyn Collins (Zondervan, Rachelle Gardner/Sue Brower - Editors)

Salty Like Blood - Harry Kraus (Howard/Simon & Schuster, David Lambert - Editor)

Breach of Trust - DiAnn Mills (Tyndale House, Karen Watson - Editor)

Women’s Fiction - 7 Finalists due to a tie

Sweet Waters - Julie Carobini (B&H Publishing, Karen Ball - Editor)

Leaving Yesterday - Kathryn Cushman (Bethany House, Dave Long - Editor)

Sweet By and By - Sara Evans & Rachel Hauck (Thomas Nelson, Ami McConnell - Editor)

Never the Bride - Rene Gutteridge & Cheryl McKay (Waterbrook Press, Shannon Marchese - Editor)

Yesterday's Embers - Deborah Raney (Howard/Simon & Schuster, David Lambert - Editor)

Above All Things - Deborah Raney (Steeple Hill, Krista Stroever - Editor)

The Summer Kitchen - Lisa Wingate (New American Library/Penguin, Ellen Edwards - Editor)

Young Adult

Who Made You a Princess? - Shelley Adina (Hachette FaithWords, Anne Goldsmith Horch - Editor)

Always Watching - Brandilyn & Amberly Collins (Zondervan, Barbara Scott - Editor)

I'm So Sure - Jenny B. Jones (Thomas Nelson, Natalie Hanemann/Jamie Chavez - Editors)

So Not Happening - Jenny B. Jones (Thomas Nelson, Amanda Bostic/Jamie Chavez - Editors)

Unsigned Hype - Booker T. Mattison (Revell, Andrea Doering - Editor)

Set Sail Off Unpubbed Island!

2010-07-10T08:27:00.000-07:00

Sandra and Myra at Denver ACFW 2009

WooHoo!

Come join the fun in Seekerville as we celebrate the another sale...

Sandra LeeSmith got the call!!!

Join in the celebration!

Blog Interview

2010-06-09T20:35:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

Come join the fun on Romance Writers on the Journey where I'm the featured author! This is my first lengthy interview since my first sale and I really don't know what at expect, LOL! Keli Gwyn is my hostess and being the kind and gracious lady that she is, I have no fears of the unexpected.

Leave your email addy for a chance of winning chocolate from the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory : )

Next Week In Seekerville

2010-06-05T14:49:00.000-07:00

Monday: Join Barbour author Mary Connealy for part four of her five part series on revising a completed manuscript. Don't miss, Tag You're It. She'll also be giving away a copy of Doctor in Petticoats.

Tuesday:Faith Words debut author Carla Stewart is our guest. Carla will be giving away a copy of her debut release, Chasing Lilacs. Chasing Lilacs is a Publisher's Weekly starred review and a 4 1/2 star review from Romantic Times Book Reviews.

Wednesday: Seekerville is delighted to welcome New York Times best-selling author Cindy Woodsmall. Cindy has two current series out, both with Amish settings available from WaterBrook Press.

Thursday: Love Inspired author Winnie Griggs shares, Crafting Effective Scenes. Stop by for a chance to win a copy of her new release, The Heart's Song. (This is Winnie's first contemporary novel for Love Inspired and it received a 4 1/2 star TOP PICK from Romantic Times Book Reviews.)

Friday: And somewhere in the world there is a Derek Jeter sighting. None-the-less, Steeple Hill Love Inspired author, Ruth Logan Herne is your hostess today.

Graduation in the air

2010-05-23T16:48:00.000-07:00

I despise paying bills. Anyone else feel the same way??

I just finished paying the last bill for the month and, hallelujah!! There's money left in the checking account : ) This is such a tight economy, every penny left over is celebrated.

But that joy won't last long.

We have a high school senior who is chomping at the bit to graduate. This coming Saturday. We're all dancing with excitement in the Harders' household, including my daughter who just graduated from junior college two weeks ago. And to think, I remember them starting preschool like it was yesterday...

I digress : )

Back to graduation and our budget. All is not gloom and doom!! I've prayed for breathing space in the bank account for special occasions, and guess what? After shopping for party fare prudently, ordering graduation gifts when they were on sale, and cleaning up stored deck furniture in lieu of new, I do believe we have the special occasion signed, sealed and paid for -- IN ADVANCE!!

Now THAT'S a miracle, LOL!

Congratulations to all the graduates looking forward to their special days no matter your age, school or degree. I applaud your achievements and wish you all much success!!

Welcome to a new chapter of your life!

Coming Up In Seekerville

2010-05-22T19:18:00.000-07:00

Monday: 2010 Genesis Finalist and Seeker Pam Hillman is posting today.

Tuesday:Steeple Hill Love Inspired author Ruth Logan Herne is your hostess today. Her post is called, "Love With the Perfect Stranger... For Research Purposes ONLY, of course..." Ruth will be giving away a copy of Waiting Out the Storm and Courage-building Chocolate for approaching unknown writing industry professionals. Two winners.

Wednesday: Steeple Hill Love Inspired author Glynna Kaye will be here. Her post is "A Word From Your Inner Critic. " And she'll be giving away a copy of Dreaming of Home.

Thursday: Thomas Nelson debut author Cara Lynn James shares today. Cara is giving away a copy of the first book in The Ladies of Summerhill series: Love On a Dime!

Friday: Steeple Hill Love Inspired debut author Tina Radcliffe will be taking you for a stroll down Memory Lane with her post, "The First Time." Stop by for a little reminiscing and a special give away.

Seekerville Happenings

2010-05-17T05:15:00.000-07:00

Look what's happening in Seekerville this week!

Monday: Revell and Steeple Hill Love Inspired author (and RITA finalist) Irene Hannon is our special guest. She'll be giving away one of her books too!

Tuesday: Steeple Hill Love Inspired author, Cheryl Wyatt will post on, Getting into (TOO MUCH) Character. She'll give away a copy of Brandilyn Collins' Getting Into Character, a craft book that Joan Marlow Golan recommended. She'll be talking about characterization pitfalls and how ancillary characters differ from secondaries and the significance of each.

Wednesday: Steeple Hill Suspense author Debby Giusti shares today and she's giving away a winner's choice book prize.

Thursday: Zondervan and Steeple Hill Suspense author Camy Tang will be giving everyone a chance to practice their one-sentence hook! And she'll provide feedback if you dare to post yours.

Friday: We're excited to welcome back Revell author Maggie Brendan today.

The Art of Layering

2010-05-04T08:09:00.000-07:00

Check out the posts in Seekerville today...and yesterday! Renee Ryan is blogging on layering your manuscript. You'll want to print off copies of both days and share!

This Week In Seekerville

2010-05-03T00:07:00.000-07:00

Seekerville is kicking May off right! Look at this line up for the week.

Monday & Tuesday we have an all day workshop delivered in two days of posts with Steeple Hill Historical author Renee Ryan . Join us for The Art of Layering. Not only is Renee presenting but she is she's giving away two books plus a Series collection.

Wednesday: Seekerville will be commemorating Executive Editor, Joan Marlow Golan's visit with a 9-5 giveaway. We'll mark the hours with drawings for all kinds of lovely Seekerville friendly prizes. Our 9-5 will be East and West Coast inclusive. So if you are in PST we will be giving away prizes until it is five p.m. there also.

That's actually 12 hours of giveaways. Don't miss the fun.

Food courtesy of the Knights of Columbus Annual Spring Fish Fry, featuring their broiled or fried seafood platter complete with a fresh fruit bar and a dessert melange hosted by Ruthy and the Westside Sisters Bakery. Carrot cake courtesy of Mary Connealy. Coffee bar courtesy of Starbuck's.

Thursday: We are thrilled to have writer Theresa Rizzo with us today sharing about the Crested Butte Writers Conference.

Friday: Heartsong Presents author Shannon Vannatter sharing with, Where My School of Hard Knocks Collided with Contests. And she's giving away a copy or her release, White Roses.

Wish I Would've Known

2010-04-09T20:21:00.000-07:00

How about a stroll down memory lane?

Today in Seekerville, the rescued Seekers reflect on What I Wish I Knew Before I Sold A Book.

I got my couple of paragraphs in. Can you guess which ones??

2010-04-03T08:03:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter!

I pray you enjoy this holy weekend with warmth and sunshine!

SOTP and other thoughts

2010-04-01T00:06:00.000-07:00

Happy April Fool's Day!!

I'm blogging in Seekerville today. Topic is Seat Of The Pants writing, or learning to write a novel without a 1GB of revisions.

Come join the fun! Leave a comment and you could be the proud recipient of a bag of chocolate : )

See you there!

Francine Rivers

2010-03-30T08:53:00.000-07:00

Don't miss the fabulous interview with Francine Rivers in Seekerville! Quite a lady. God gave the publishing world a tremendous blessing when He called Francine to write for Him : )

Rita and Golden Heart Nominees Are...

2010-03-28T18:59:00.000-07:00

Romance Writers of America announced the long awaited finalists for the 2010 Rita and Golden Heart contests. Over 100 finalists in a multitude of categories will be on the edge of their seats in Nashville, TN this July 31st when the winners will be announced. Good luck, everyone!

Harlequin received 34 nominations for the Rita! Is that great, or what? And a special shout out to Steeple Hill Love Inspired Historical author, Carla Capshaw whose book The Gladiator received TWO nominations, Inspirational Romance and Best First Book. What an awesome first year!

And let us not forget our friends of Seekerville and friends of Five Scribes who have finaled in the Golden Heart. You guys rock!

Of course our special congratulations go out to Donnell Ann Bell. Deadly Recall is a Golden Heart finalist in the Romantic Suspense category!! Donnell has MANY reasons for wanting to attend the RWA Nationals, now she's racked up one more!! Way to go, girlfriend!!

Best to all the nominees

This week in Seekerville

2010-02-27T20:39:00.000-08:00

Go check out the line up in Seekerville next week! Especially mark you calendars, I'll be blogging on writing and fitness on Thursday!

Monday: Join Barbour author, Mary Connealy as she discusses consistency in your writing. She'll also be giving away a copy of Black Hills Blessing.

Tuesday: Putting Your Baby To Bed, with Love Inspired debut author, Tina Radcliffe. And a surprise giveaway!

Wednesday: Revell author, Laura Frantz is our special guest.

Thursday: Love Inspired debut author, Audra Harders is your hostess today.

Friday:March Contest Update. The prize vault will be open.

Plotting the trail

2010-02-25T05:18:00.000-08:00

Manuscript revisions - check.

Sent to editor - check.

Ideas for new books - check.

Organized thoughts - screeching halt.

I don't know about you, but my mind tends to work like an air hockey table with all the discs hovering around with no direction when I'm brainstorming and plotting. Everything sounds good. But without a central theme, my proverbial Alice In Wonderland of goals, motivations and conflicts only serve to muddle up my mind and stiffle my creativity.

A train wreck waiting to happen.

Over the next few days, I plan on identifying the writing peak I'm going to climb and investigate all the paths and trails that will lead my characters to the summit.

In a coherent fashion.

Tough. Rugged.

Very few Sherpas allowed.

Push that story forward!!

Revisions

2010-02-21T19:36:00.001-08:00

I finished the revisions to Rocky Mountain Hero this evening! What a relief!

For the last two weeks, I've been coming home from work, eating with family and other little things, then off to my office from 7 pm to 9 pm. Weekends, I've been burrowed away from the light of day. Of course, this weekend, we've had snow floating down, so mega easy to stay in where it's warm : )

I'm so excited to see Rocky Mountain Hero (formerly Rough and Ready) come together. My editor has a great eye for detail and plot. All of her suggestions for revisions have only made the story stronger.

Okay, time to switch gears now and get mentally ready for day job tomorrow. I like playing 4-H all day, but I like writing inspirational romantic fiction better : )

Author vs Athelete?

2010-02-16T05:52:00.000-08:00

The 2010 Olympics are well on their way! Have you taken time to watch? Sadly, I'm not able to view as much as I'd like, but the moments I have stolen I've absolutely loved.

And sat in awe marvelling at the time, talent, and sacrifice these folks have invested in their dream.

I know, a favorite topic of novelist bloggers right now is comparing writing to the Olympics. In my mind, I don't have any where near the fortitude these focused atheletes do, but I'm dedicated to my craft nonetheless.

Back in one of my prior lifetimes, I lived in Colorado Springs, Colorado, home of the US Olympic Complex and the US Olympic Training Center.

Colorado Springs is also home to the United States Air Force Academy, NORAD, Focus on the Family and a host of other private, corporate and governmental entities--not to mention a campus of the University of Colorado.

Needless to say, I was surrounded by dedicated people doing the most for their dreams. Focus is the featured element in many outstanding professions, including novel writing.

What can we learn from the examples set by the extraordinary atheletes we watch with anticipation over these two weeks? If your heart's desire is big enough for you to dream, it's big enough to sacrifice what it takes to make that dream come true. Don't get discouraged because potholes develope along the path. Either skirt them or repair them, but don't let them derail you.

What doesn't kill you only makes you stronger.

Heh, heh, heh, I pray it doesn't come to that, but you never know what life has in mind : )

Start today to make your dreams come true:

Set your goals.

Work your hardest.

Give it your BEST effort.

Pray.

Gold is within your reach. Recognize it when you see it.

Blessing to all!

Up before dawn

2010-02-06T05:31:00.001-08:00

Saturday morning and I can't sleep.

I should be able to, I've lost enough sleep over that past week still flying high on the excitment of selling my book : )

But here I sit. Saturday morning. Drinking coffee. Catching up on emails.

And more than prepared to resume work on the revisions to my book, Rocky Mountain Hero. So much to do and so little time to do it. Ahhh, don't we all work better under pressure, LOL!!

My daughter is driving home from college to spend the weekend. Can you believe we took her up to school just two weeks ago and she's homesick already? And this isn't even her first year of college : )

We miss her, too. My carnivorous child is ready to fill up on meat, meat, and more meat before she goes back on Sunday and faces whatever canned food is sitting in the cupboards.

College life. What a kick.

I changed the background of my blog. Don't know if I like it yet. Gotta wear it a while...break it in...see if it fits.

Oh My Goodness. I've got to work on my website, too.

And finish some judging panels.

And compile our taxes.

So really? Who has time to sleep?

The Morning After

2010-01-31T07:30:00.000-08:00

Wow. What a wild party!

Seekerville hosted a First Sale party for me yesterday on the Island. It was a wild time! I got to talk to friends I hadn't seen in years. Got to rub shoulders with those faithful followers of Seekerville and Five Scribes. And I met folks who just enjoyed coming to a good party : )

Our highlights? Well, we had a Conga line going all day long. Mercy! You should have seen the length of that thing, LOL!! Thanks Tina for getting that going just a few minutes after midnight : ) Cap'n Jack Sparrow held his post all day beneath the palm trees serving refreshments and yes, chasing a few flip-flops around the island : ) Madame Zelda made an appearance at the end of the day to pass out a some *I told you so's*.

The pig roasted up deliciously and thanks to all who proved the endless dessert table : )

Marshmallows were aflame come nightfall when the bonfire whooshed to life and folks settled down around the warmth and reminisced over the day, the year, the years...

All keys to Ski Jets, motorboats and yachts were confiscated at the shore upon arrival and when the party drew to a close, we all pulled up a hammock, a cot, sleeping bag, or just a plot of sand and said goodnight to a memorable day. Can you believe the island natives clean up while we slept? Awesome!

I'll cherish the memory forever.

Thanks go out to Tina, Ruthy, Mary, Camy, Cheryl, Missy, Cara, Sandra, Myra, Janet, Glynna, Debby, Pam and Julie for sticking with me through the years, thick and thin. You guys know how to throw a swinging party!

And now, if you want to know more about how to Monkey Around, visit Seekerville for a peek into all the happenings of the coming week!!

First Sale!!!

2010-01-27T20:07:00.000-08:00

Saturday

January 30, 2010

Seekerville

2010-01-17T00:58:00.000-08:00

Make sure you watch for these up coming releases:

Janet Dean offers another warm and witty historical romance from Steeple Hill Books. The Substitute Bride features a mistaken identity bride and a hidden identity groom each grappling with their own dilemmas as husband and wife until faith and trust weave together a union made in heaven.

Another winner from Janet Dean!

Steeple Hill, Love Inspired Books

February 2010

Hot on the heels of her amazing Christmas novella, Yule Die featured in Christmas Peril with Merry Mayhem by Margaret Daley, Debby Giusti is back with another Love Inspired Suspense, Killer Headline.

Steeple Hill, Love Inspired Suspense

February 2010

Watch for the long awaited debut novel, Winter's End, by Ruth Logan Herne. Ruth has a commanding style and voice that will keep you laughing, crying and waiting as happily ever after puts a smile on your face.

Steeple Hill, Love Inspired Books

March 2010

2010 Handbook

2010-01-15T00:07:00.000-08:00

My good, good friend Leslie sent this to me at work today. It was such a great pick-me-up, I wanted to share it. My only disappointment is not knowing the original author of such an amazing list. Thank you Unknown, where ever you are!

Great rules to follow in 2010 and beyond!!

Health:

1. Drink plenty of water.
2.. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a beggar.
3. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less food that is manufactured in plants...
4. Live with the 3 E's -- Energy, Enthusiasm and Empathy.
5. Make time to pray.
6. Play more games.
7. Read more books than you did in 2009.
8. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day.
9. Sleep for 7 hours.
10. Take a 10-30 minute walk daily. And while you walk, smile.

Personality:

11. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
12 Don't have negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead invest your energy in the positive present moment.
13. Don't over do. Keep your limits.
14. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does..
15. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip.
16. Dream more while you are awake.
17. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
18. Forget issues of the past. Don't remind your partner with his/her mistakes of the past. That will ruin your present happiness.
19. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone. Don't hate others.
20. Make peace with your past so it won't spoil the present.
21. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.
22. Realize that life is a school and you are here to learn. Problems are simply part of the curriculum that appear and fade away like algebra class but the lessons you learn will last a lifetime.
23. Smile and laugh more.
24. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.

Society:

25. Call your family often.
26. Each day give something good to others.
27. Forgive everyone for everything.
28. Spend time w/ people over the age of 70 & under the age of 6.
29. Try to make at least three people smile each day.
30. What other people think of you is none of your business.
31. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch.

Life:

32. Do the right thing!
33. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
34. God heals everything.
35. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
36. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
37. The best is yet to come.
38. When you awake alive in the morning, be thankful for it.
39. Your Inner most is always happy. So, be happy.

Are you ready for that First Sale??

2010-01-13T01:00:00.000-08:00

A good friend of mine, Tina Radcliffe, just sold her first book to Steeple Hill Love Inspired. Oh, the partying and celebration that went on in Seekerville in her honor! After years of perseverance, the dream is now firmly in her grasp. All her family and friends are so happy and proud of her.

So the party decorations are all cleaned up, the last guest bid adieu, and the door closes on the thrill that is the First Sale.

Now what?

Writers that strive for years for their first sale sometimes aren’t prepared for the change in chores that now lie ahead. Speaking as one who has seen a number of friends sell their first books over the past two years, I can give a little insight.

Be prepared to jump into action quickly. Not saying I know how all publishing houses operate, but when you sell a book to Steeple Hill, they have a pub date ready for you in the same breath in which they utter the longed for words – We’d like to buy your book and work with you.

Don’t be a diva. Now that your dream has come true, don’t buck the system. Very few books are sold and published without revisions of some sort. Trust your editor. Of course you can discuss changes that rub you the wrong way. Just don’t earn the label of being difficult right off the bat. Your long awaited career might come to a grinding halt.

Schedules are crucial. Looking at my own writing habits, I’m a pretty firm seat-of-my-pants writer which means I write what and when the mood strikes me. Since watching my friends sell their books, I’ve been working on structure. I set small goals for myself and make certain I achieve them. There are masses of details that need to be attended to, and they all need to meet your publishers’ deadlines. Be prepared!

Have a loose idea of title and cover art. I say loose because, really, the editors have been at this a long time. They know what works and what doesn’t for their lines. If you insist on a title or whine when they change it, number one, your editor will probably say sorry if they’re so inclined; number two, you’re headed toward that difficult label again. Remember, discussion is fine, just handle it courteously and professionally.

Finally, KEEP WRITING!! Keep churning out those stories! Publishers invest a lot of time, effort and money in you to create a name and a brand of your own. Don’t be a one hit wonder! Be enthusiastic about your next project, or better yet, have completed manuscripts to offer. Put a smile on that editor’s face and develop a relationship that keeps your name in the forefront of all of the others.

There are so many details and responsibilities that come along with selling your first novel. Hopefully, I’ll be able to fill you in as a published author soon : ) In the mean time, I’m working on more books, keeping my eye out for cover art, schedules are always at hand….

First Sale Celebration

2010-01-08T22:07:00.000-08:00

Check out the party in Seekerville!

We announce the first sale of

Tina Russo Radcliffe!!

Read about her amazing journey through the maze that is Unpubbedness : )

Yay, Tina!! We're all so proud of you!!

WooHoo!!

Welcome 2010

2010-01-01T18:01:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! May 2010 put a smile of your face all year long.

Traditionally, January 1st is the day for resolutions for the new year. I tend to go a step further and make revolutions (doesn't it take a revolution to make a change??) with the best of intentions at heart.

Not this year.

Nope.

If I want to be perfectly honest, I'm still trying to nail down the revolutions I"ve been making over the last decade. Why add more beans to the proverbial pot when I haven't perfected the original blend of herbs and spices?

This year, I want to concentrate on making the most of the gifts I've been given.

I have a day job that I love and I plan to serve my community the best I know how.

I have a hut on Unpubbed Island that I'm just dying to move out of and that will never happen if I don't sit my butt down in my chair and continue to write Inspirational Romances, drawing strength and emotion from every romantic fiber reaching deep down to my core.

I have an awesome family that will soon fragment as children tend to do as they mature and leave in search of happiness beyond the nest. Oh, I don't feel I'm losing them. No. It's just a change every healthy family goes through when the spirit of adventure calls.

I embrace the awesome power of prayer and firmly believe the Lord is in control. So what's the point of prayer? To remind me the Lord has everything under control : )

I am blessed with the love and support of friends spanning the nation. How great is that??

I have a wish and a prayer for all my friends and family: find your happiness and live in contentment in this upcoming year of 2010.

Blessing to you all!

December 31, 2009

2009-12-31T17:11:00.000-08:00

Can you believe the year is almost over? Seems like each year, the time goes by just a mite faster. Maybe I should just Christmas shop now for next year and be all set by the time Thanksgiving comes rolling around in just a few weeks : )

Tomorrow is the day for revolutions.

Today is the day to give thanks.

I'm thankful for:

...my family and our health. This year has seen some crazy things happen from kidney infections to hernias to dog-bitten fingers. Through it all, we kept our sense of humor along with countless prayers heavenward.
...my daughter who lives life to the fullest. Her motto: you can rest when you're dead. She has a heart of gold and a 1000-watt smile to go with it.
...my son who lives up to his nickname of Minimum Bud, even though he's the first to lend a hand fixing equipment, moving furniture or chauffeuring his friends where they want to go. Now if we can just come up with enough money to support his food budget...
...good friends to laugh and cry with and who always know just what to say whether it's consolation or a smack up side of the head. Best friends don't let best friends wallow or do stupid things.
...my job that brings me endless enjoyment and the opportunity to give back to the 4-H community for all the support and love they've shown our family. Special thanks to this incredible village of families that helped raise my children and me!
...my Five Scribes buddies for creating a blogging venue so diversified, visitors learn all about romantic suspense, womens' fiction, urban fantasy, screenwriting, along with my contribution of inspirational romance depending on the day they visit. The guest interviews are fantastic and the book reviews enlightening. Thank you my good friends for joining me on this adventure into the next year.
...my Seekerville sisters. I can't say enough about this incredible group of women who bonded together out of our competition against each other in writing contests. No joy, problem or sorrow is too big or too small for the ladies who serve up fun and laughter, along with delicious treats in Seekerville each day. Life in fiction writing land would be so lonely without you guys! Empty the island by 2011!!
...the honor of living in this great nation. More specifically, I love living in Colorado where the sun shines 300 days out of the year and everything you might want to do is but hours away. Our friends and neighbors are quick with a smile or a helping hand and a blessing no matter what time of year. Oh and don't let me forget the cowboys, ranchers and farmers who inspire my stories by simply being who they are.
...a relationship with my Lord Jesus Christ, my God who accompanies me on my journey through life, always with me, always protecting me, always loving me. May my life reflect His love through this coming year.

This is just the tip of the iceberg. I'm thankful for so much that if I tried to list them all, I'd spend the next year writing about all the blessings in my life over the last year : )

I'm hoping your year was filled with memorable events. Good, bad, or ugly (had to toss in a little Clint Eastwood), 2009 will live in our hearts forever.

May 2010 fill you with adventure!

Blessings to you all!

Nothing Left But The Smiles

2009-12-26T19:12:00.000-08:00

Christmas has come and gone. For some reason, this Christmas season seemed to stretch on way beyond the few weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Each year I vow to start all my shopping, cards, decorating, etc earlier, and each year I shake my head and say, *next year, yada,yada.*

Despite all the Saturdays spent baking and weeknights spent wrapping presents, Christmas this year was fun. Traditionally, we spend Christmas Eve with my aunt and cousins in Boulder. Very festive evening. Good food, good fun, good fellowship. After the presents were opened and the last bite of cake and coffee consumed, we drove back to Longmont in time for the Candlelight Service at church. We sang holiday tradition and listened to the timeless message of the birth of salvation. Beautiful reminder of what this season of joy and giving is all about.

Christmas morning finds the Harders' family preparing for the holiday meal before opening the presents. This year, a lamb and pork roast went in the oven and a turkey breast in the slow cooker. Ahh, the smells that filled the house made our mouths water : )

Presents were appreciated by one and all, but I especially appreciated the presents MADE by my husband. Gary made all the gifts he gave this year. He is a master of creation with scrap wood. Kara and Bud and many of their friends received duck calls handcrafted by Gary. Yes, yes, yes, we listened his *testing for tone* all December long. Along with the duck calls, Kara and number of the female friends received earring presented within handcrafted acorns.

Christmas afternoon found the Harders' side of the family at our house. A buffet for 13 lined the wall of my dining room and kitchen. Everyone ate well and we still had abundant leftovers to send home. The little kids tore into presents and the adults laughed with the excitment.

My presents were the best of all. Gary and the kids know how I love receiving office supplies and gadgets any time of year. The kids fed this hunger with post-its, oversized push-pins and paper clips, and various notepads. Gary crafted a storage box for all the little supplies and a paper clip holder with a magnet set in the lid. I love them!! I love the time he took to make each gift special for the person receiving it : )

Christmas evening wound down with the wrapping paper all thrown away, the table collapsed to its normal size and the kitchen clean. By 7:00, I was ready to turn off the lights and head for bed.

What a wonderful, blessed Christmas. God is so generous, I feel incredibly blessed surrounded by the special people I call family and friends.

I pray your Christmas warmed your hearts and may the joy of the birth of our Savior live on in your hearts all year long.

Merry Christmas!

Joy To The World!!

2009-12-25T00:01:00.000-08:00

Joy to the world! The Lord is come;
Let earth receive her King;
Let every heart prepare him room,
And heav’n and nature sing,
And heav’n and nature sing,
And heav’n and heav’n, and nature sing.

Joy to the earth! The Savior reigns;
Let men their songs employ;
While fields and floods, rocks, hills and plains.
Repeat the sounding joy,
Repeat the sounding joy,
Repeat, repeat, the sounding joy.

No more let sins and sorrows grow,
Nor thorns infest the ground;
He comes to make His blessings flow.
Far as the curse is found,
Far as the curse is found,
Far as, far as the curse is found.

He rules the world, with truth and grace;
And makes the nations prove.
The glories of His righteousness.
And wonders of His love,
And wonders of His Love,
And wonders and wonders of His love.

Timeless Story

2009-12-24T00:12:00.000-08:00

In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be enrolled. This was the first enrollment when Quirinius was governor of Syria. And all went to be enrolled, each to his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be enrolled with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. And while they were there, the time came for her to be delivered. And she gave birth to her first born son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths, and laid him in a manger, becasue there was no place for them in the inn.

And in that region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with fear. And the angel said to them, "Be not afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy which will come to all the people; for to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a babe wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger." And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased."

When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened which the Lord has made known to us."

And they went with haste, and found Mary and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. And when they saw it they made known the saying which had been told them concerning this child and all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them. But Mary kept all these things, pondering them in her heart. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.

Merry Christmas!
Glory To Jesus!

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-23T08:24:00.000-08:00

The snow is flying here in Longmont! What a beautiful setting to celebrate the upcoming festivities of Christmas!

Most of my shopping is complete. Don't you just hate that nagging suspicion you've forgotten someone important on your list? Well, that's what I'm going through. I just know I'll remember too late to do anything about it.

Presents are all wrapped and under the tree. My family has made a conscious effort this year to shop conservatively, to consider the wants and needs of each other and to search thrift shops and flea markets to get the best deals. I certainly don't mind gently used!! My husband has MADE all his Christmas gifts! He says he's created something very tempting for the writer side of me. It's hard not to go peek...

In case life gets hectic and I don't post again, I want to wish everyone a very blessed Christmas! Keep Christ first in the days ahead and remember without birth of Jesus, we wouldn't have anything to celebrate!!

God's most richest blessing be to all!!

Merrry Christmas!

Caroling Classics

2009-12-16T00:45:00.000-08:00

A Holly Jolly Christmas

Have a holly, jolly christmas,

It's the best time of the year.

I don't know if there'll be snow

But have a cup of cheer.

Have a holly, jolly Christmas,

and when you walk down the street,

Say hello to friends you know

And everyone you meet.

Oh, ho, the mistletoe

Hung where you can see.

Somebody waits for you,

Kiss her once for me.

Have a holly, Jolly christmas,

And in case you didn't hear

Oh, be golly have a holly jolly

Christmas, this year!

BC or AD...Is there a difference?

2009-12-15T00:49:00.000-08:00

December, 2 BC (Give or take a couple years)

Bethlehem: The streets are bustling with activity. All around, merchants and innkeepers are doing a brisk business for a census has been decreed and all must comply to registration, each to his own city.

December, 2002 AD (Give or take a couple years)
Longmont: The streets are bustling with activity. All around, mega-malls and convention centers are packed with travelers and residents alike, each conducting their own business, each off to their appointed city.

2 BC
At the time of Christ’s birth, the angels announced, the shepherds praised and sang, the wise men bore gifts, yet all across the land, the people lived their lives oblivious to the miracle which had come into this world.

2009 AD
At the time of Christ’s birthday, the preachers proclaim, the believers sing praise, congregations worship, yet all across the metropolitan area, people live their lives oblivious to the salvation offered to this world.

Some things just don’t change, do they?

Or hey, how about this. . .bring a friend to a Children’s Christmas program!

Be creative in your encouragement, pray the Spirit helps you, and smile with the joy that fills your heart knowing you’re giving Christ the best present of all for His birthday.

Blessings to all!

Holiday Panic? No! How about Fun!

2009-12-12T17:18:00.000-08:00

Where has the month gone? Last time I looked it was Thanksgiving and now it's Saturday, December 12th! I know I'm not alone in my holiday panic, but I still have shopping, cards, baking--deep breath--and writing! Why oh why can't I just take the month of December off from my day job to do all the important things in life, LOL!!?

I'm not letting myself go totally crazy though. This weekend, I'm sitting down with books from my keep shelf and revisiting old friends. I'm thumbing through:

Love Bites AND Joe's Girl by Margaret St. George (aka Maggie Osborne)

Sands of Time AND Sheep's Clothing by Susan May Warren

Letters From a Stranger by Connie Rinehold

Flowers on the Storm AND Uncertain Magic by Laura Kinsale

Take note, these books are not in my writing genre. They are books that captivated me long before I thought to write love stories about cowboys and unsuspecting heroines who needed a touch of God's love to help them find their way : ) The titles above offer characters that dug into my heart and intend to reside for years to come.

If you have a second, share your favorite book(s) with me. I hearing about authors that have left deep, lasting impressions on tender hearts : )

Okay, on to other things...

Have you been to Seekerville lately? You'll not want to miss the great line up of posts this week:

Monday: Love Inspired Historical author Janet Dean is our hostess today and she's giving away a copy of her February release, The Substitute Bride.

Tuesday: Love Inspired author Cheryl Wyatt shares today.

Wednesday: Our guest is multi-published Love Inspired and Love Inspired Suspense author, Margaret Daley.

Thursday: Love Inspired Suspense Suspense and Zondervan author, Camy Tang leads the fun.

Friday: Love Inspired debut author, Ruth Logan Herne is your blogging and baking hostess.

Enjoy the Christmas cheer and make the most of the holiday spirit!

Happy Hanukkah, too!

Blessings to all : )

Random Thoughts

2009-12-09T08:47:00.000-08:00

A friend sent this list of random thoughts...haven't we all scratched our heads over one or two of these ideas??

I think part of a best friend's job should be to immediately clear your computer history if you die.

Nothing is worse than that moment during an argument when you realize you're wrong.

I totally take back all those times I didn't want to nap when I was younger.

There is great need for a sarcasm font.

How the heck are you supposed to fold a fitted sheet?

Was learning cursive really necessary?

Map Quest really needs to start their directions on #5. I'm pretty sure I know how to get out of my neighborhood.

Obituaries would be a lot more interesting if they told you how the person died.

I can't remember the last time I wasn't at least kind of tired.

Bad decisions make good stories.

You never know when it will strike, but there comes a moment at work when you know that you just aren't going to do anything productive for the rest of the day.

Can we all just agree to ignore whatever comes after Blue Ray? I don't want to have to restart my collection...again.

I'm always slightly terrified when I exit out of Word and it asks me if I want to save any changes to my ten-page research paper that I swear I did not make any changes to.

"Do not machine wash or tumble dry" means I will never wash this thing I have-- ever.

I hate when I just miss a call by the last ring (Hello? Hello? Darn it!), but when I immediately call back, it rings nine times and goes to voicemail. What'd you do after I didn't answer? Drop the phone and run away?

No one can convince me that lifting a coffee cup isn't exercise.

What do you think? Can you add more??