The Craftie Ladies of Love Inspired Romance

The Plot Thickens

2012-02-02T00:01:00.000-08:00

Sandra Orchard here to help kick off romantic suspense month.

Ahh, February…romance is in the air!

Once friends find out I write for “Harlequin”, they like to tease my hubby with questions such as: So what’s it like to be married to a romance writer? ~Elbow. Elbow. Wink. Wink.~

Well, let me tell you. It’s not all fun and games. Sure hubby’s happy to help inspire me when I need to experiment with a kiss to get all the details right.

But I’m an inspirational writer so it never gets any further than that, much to my hubby’s disappointment I’m sure.

Besides, I’m not really a romance writer. I’m a romantic suspense writer.

So more often than not, I’m contemplating means of killing people, and more importantly, how to get away with it.

This can be quite uncomfortable for my family. Especially if they happen to notice my book of poisons sitting on the counter as they sit down to dinner.

Did you know that too much…?

Hmm, never mind, I’d better not reveal that. I’m planning to use the tidbit in my next book.

My family has learned to take my quirky ways in stride. My hubby is quick to assure people that it’s not him I’m planning to do away with when after I ask, “How could someone in your profession get away with murder?”

Most of the time, people warm right up to the subject. After all, be honest, how many of you have never contemplated how you might kill someone?

I’ve had a lot of fun with this line of questioning.

One time on the way to the airport following a writer’s conference, I shared a cab with a forensic pathologist. I was working on a mystery in which I killed someone by… hmm, won’t give that one away either.

Let’s just say by an ingenious means.

So I asked him, “If I killed someone by such and such a means, would you be able to detect that?”

The cabbie’s gaze shot to the rearview mirror. After the pathologist said, “No,” and I rubbed my hands in glee, I think the cabbie spent more time eyeing the rearview mirror than the road.

We made it to the airport in record time.

Then in the plane, I sat beside an aviation inspector. This was a divine meeting since I’d written a plane crash story that I wanted to tweak, and I had a two-hour flight to pick this guy’s brain about the myriad of reasons a plane might go down, and how.

Let me tell you, if you knew this stuff, you’d think twice before you got on a plane. I’m pretty sure the woman in front of us clutching her armrests was.

I could go and on with examples of ideas that have blossomed from the most innocuous situations.

Of course, there are drawbacks to having such an active imagination. It makes relaxing difficult.

This past summer while kayaking with the family, I couldn’t help but notice how easy it would be to sneak up on someone’s house from the water. My daughter who is also a writer locked right onto the idea and before you knew it we were spinning a tale of mystery and mayhem, and eyeing suspiciously every person who paddled by.

Of course, while I have a lot of fun writing my heroes and heroines into the worst situations imaginable, in the end, with the love of God and a good woman, the good guys triumph.

Check out how much trouble I get my characters into in my March LIS release now available on Harlequin.

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Do You Love Weddings?

2012-02-01T10:25:00.000-08:00

Victoria Bylin here . . . I thought I’d share a little bit about the LIH Spring Wedding anthology that’s coming out in April. Novellas are a blast to write. They’re short and sweet, but they offer all the fun of a full novel. Here’s the back cover blurb . . .

Josie's Wedding Dress by Victoria Bylin

Desperate for someone to help her save her ranch, Josie Bright makes a deal with Ty Donner. Now the man who'd left her waiting at the altar is making her hope for things she had long stopped wishing for.

Last Minute Bride by Janet Dean

Elise Langley was stung to the quick when her would-be suitor suddenly left town. But when David Wellman returns and they are thrown together organizing their friends' wedding, can she open her heart again?

Her Ideal Husband by Pamela Nissen

As a girl, Lydia Townsend hoped to marry Jebediah Gentry—until his rejection spoiled her dreams. When family duty brings her home, it's Jeb's chance to show Lydia that now is the time for her wedding dreams to come true.

We have three weddings for the price of one . . . How awesome is that? Hope you all enjoy!

Films Celebrate the Human Spirit

2012-01-31T03:10:00.000-08:00

I’m a huge movie buff. Talk for me for five minutes and you’d pretty much figure that out. With all the awards shows cramming our TV schedules, I thought I’d share an observation that really makes me smile.

As I looked at the list of movies up for awards this year, it struck me how most of the movies are celebratory in nature. They celebrate the human spirit.

For instance, in The Help, The Artist, The Descendants, Hugo, Midnight in Paris, and Moneyball, the protagonists are struggling with a major conflict regarding personal survival. They’re headed into a battle and hope to come out the other side as better people. They do. And we get to join them on this journey, feel their pain, their passion, their loss, and their victory.

I especially loved The Artist. I know, I know, you’re thinking, “You didn’t pick Midnight in Paris as your number one? A writer gets to go back in time and meet his novelist heroes!” Don’t get me wrong. I enjoyed Midnight in Paris very much. But The Artist demanded I participate in the movie-going experience in a different, and deeper way.

At first the lack of sound freaked me out. I’m sitting there thinking, “My kid (23) is going to hate it! My husband is fidgeting. Why is that lady’s popcorn bag so loud?” Then something amazing happened: I fell headlong into story in a way I never have before. I was captivated. It was a lovely, entertaining story, without sex or violence. How refreshing!

I think that’s one of the reasons the Love Inspired line is so popular. I enjoy a bit of mystery and suspense with my reading, so I’m really excited about upcoming titles: Dangerous Imposter by Virginia Smith, Protecting the Princess by Rachelle McCalla, The Rookie’s Assignment by Valerie Hansen, and Shattered Identity by Sandra Robbins.

Between making a dent in my TBR pile, and writing my own books, I’ll keep busy until Oscar night, Sunday, February 26^th. What are you reading these days? And which film do you think will win the coveted Best Picture honor?

Peace,

Hope White

www.hopewhiteauthor.com

Hanging in there...

2012-01-30T07:47:00.000-08:00

Missy Tippens, here. For many of us, the weather has been extremely cold. Here in Georgia, we've had a bit of really cold weather--in the 20's. So I've been amazed at some flowers that have hung in there in pots on my porch. They got planted really late.

Late in the summer, my daughter found some little bulbs she'd bought for a fundraiser, and my husband decided to just toss them in the pots to see what happened. Well, they've been blooming since about November! And they've survived the frost, I guess because they're on the edge of the porch.

Those cute little flowers (I don't even know what kind they are) have taught me about persistence. I thought I'd share. :)

Small-Town Sweethearts Interview

2012-01-29T01:00:00.000-08:00

How exciting to have Emily Hazard the heroine from Small-Town Sweethearts by Jean C. Gordon a January release from Love Inspired Romance.

1. Emily, tell me the most interesting thing about you.

You might find this interesting. Everyone here in Hazardtown seems to. I’m somewhat of a jinx. Although since I left my Adirondack Mountains hometown on Paradox Lake, NY, for college and my job in New York City, I’ve been able to control this interesting thing.

2. What do you do for fun?

Between trying to handle my work as an assistant art director for an agency in New York City from here on Paradox Lake and supervising my 17-year-old niece while her father is deployed in Afghanistan, I don’t have a lot of time for fun. I do enjoy the little family tradition my niece and I have of going out for soft ice cream to celebrate our various triumphs large and small. And I love the annual Essex County Fair, although I haven’t been there since high school.

3. What do you put off doing because you dread it?

Although I love them dearly, I put off visiting my family or, more specifically, returning to Paradox Lake because of unpleasant memories I have of being a misfit there. But since my brother asked me to be my niece’s guardian while he’s out of country so she can finish her senior year of high school with her friends at Schroon Lake Central — my alma mater — I’m back here for the next few months.

4. What are you afraid of most in life?

Being pulled into the everybody-knows-everybody’s-business, small-town atmosphere of Paradox Lake and Hazardtown Community Church while I’m here with my niece and turning back into the Jinx Hazard I was growing up. That person who never fit in anywhere. A lot of people here still even call me Jinx. I’ve worked hard to develop a distanced professional persona. In fact, one of the reasons I like my church in New York is that the people in the congregation let each other worship privately. None of that touchy feely, we’re all in this together stuff that makes you feel guilty if you don’t volunteer for everything like Mom and Dad. Not that they don’t really seem to enjoy it. It’s just not for me.

5. What do you want out of life?

I thought what I wanted out of life was to become art director at a large New York City ad agency. My plan was that, once I’d achieved that, I could think about other things like marriage and kids. Now that Drew Stacey has arrived on my scene, I’m not so sure what I want, except it’s not to settle down permanently on Paradox Lake.

6. What is the most important thing to you?

I know it shouldn’t matter, but I’d like to fit in and to have people like me for myself, not for what I can do for them, like my boss and everyone else at the agency where I work do. And, don’t let this out, but I’d like to find a man who will love me just as I am, even if I slip into Jinx mode.

7. Do you read? If so, what is your favorite type of book to read?

I like coffee table books, the ones that have lots of photography. I get good ideas for work from them. But, that’s not really reading. If I had more time, I’d indulge myself in historical novels, with or without romance.

8. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

To be more graceful and athletic.

9. Do you have a pet? If so, what is it and why that pet?

I don’t have a pet. My apartment in New York is too small, and I work too many hours to give a pet the attention it should have.

10. If you could travel back in time, where would you go and why?

I’d go back to the early nineteenth century when my ancestors were settling the hamlet of Hazardtown, here on Paradox Lake. It would be fun to see where I came from, if I maybe take after one of them since I’m so different from the rest of my family. Of course, being early settlers and loggers, they were probably all rugged outdoor types like my family.

FEATURED BOOK: SMALL-TOWN SWEETHEARTS BY JEAN C. GORDON

2012-01-28T06:06:00.000-08:00

Summoned as temporary guardian for her teenage niece, Emily Hazard returns to Paradox Lake. On one condition—she won't let herself think about staying. Emily always felt like a misfit in her tiny hometown.But she doesn't count on falling for handsome Drew Stacey, a former Wall Streeter who's getting the town church camp ready. Though he surprises Emily with his handiness with tools, understanding of teenagers and his steady faith, she'll soon head back to New York. Unless her small-town sweetheart asks her to stay forever.

Ask Elnora--About Pain??? Lenora Worth

2012-01-27T05:43:00.000-08:00

Hello, my darlings. Elnora is grumpy today. My bad back is not happy. Not sure what I did (no high heels, no late night dancing, not even a shopping spree) but my back has slipped its dripper, so to speak. I'm in agony. I can't get my much-needed beauty sleep and sitting at my desk is not pleasant, either. Actually, it's a temporary desk until my real one can be installed at our "retirement condo". But Elnora isn't ready to retire just yet and Bad Back, take warning. I will fight you!! Sigh. Anyway, after another sleepless night I got to wondering--how do you cope with pain? Pills, acupuncture, massages??? All of those sound divine to me right about now. And do you find that doctors tend to pat you on the head and tell you to learn how to deal with stress??? I'll show them stress! Elnora with a bad back is not pretty. So ... let's talk about coping with physcial pain even when we have to (as Elvis, bless his heart, would say) take care of business. No pity party here. Just a discussion on how it seems to me a lot of writers suffer from back problems and other physical ailments. But you know what Elnora says-- "As long as my fingers can walk me through a plot, I will stay with this keyboard!" Even if I'm in a hunka, hunka burning pain!

Ready for some fun? Word Search with the Historical Ladies

2012-01-26T05:18:00.000-08:00

The oh-so-creative Winnie Griggs put together this word search for your playing enjoyment. Below there are 16 Love Inspired Historical Authors listed. Look through the Wednesday posts to see if you can find us all. I'll post the answer later today. If you find the names, post in the comments and I'll pull one commenter for a copy of my new book Cherry Blossom Capers (non-LI). Have fun! Cara

Give it up for the Redheads!

2012-01-25T00:05:00.000-08:00

Patty Smith Hall here, and I was tickled to get a sneak peek at the cover of my July 2012 release, Hearts in Hiding, last week. It’s always a thrill to get a look at the art department’s conception of your book and trust me when I say, the artists at Love Inspired Historical out did themselves!

I’m particularly thrilled with my hero, Beau Daniels and his mane of dark auburn hair. A lot of folks asked me after my last book, Hearts in Flight, why I chose to feature a family made of predominately redheads in my story. I guess the answer would be I love uniqueness, and titan hair is as unique as they come, making up on 1-2% of the population. People with red hair usually have fair skin, light colored eyes and a smattering of freckles--the perfect start for any hero or heroine!

The sad part is that there are a great many misconceptions about redheads or ‘gingers,‘ and different cultures look at them with anything from admiration to scorn. Their hair often coupled

with a fiery temper and a sharp tongue as noted in Anne of Green Gables when Anne was said to have a ‘temper to match her (red) hair.' In the Medieval Age, people thought red hair was a sign of moral degeneration and went so far as to kill them for being witches, werewolves or vampires. In the modern age, gingers have been targeted by cartoons and comedians alike, and in Great Britain, ‘Gingerism‘ is compared in the same vein as racism.

All this fuss over of two recessive genes!

An yet, history provides us with a number of redheads who have and continue to influence art, literature, history and science even hundreds of years after their deaths:

Thomas Jefferson--one of our founding fathers and third president of the United States.

Ron Howard--I mean, come on! Who in their right mind would have a problem with little Opie, not to mention good guy Richie Cuninngham from ‘Happy Days!’

Prince Harry--one of the world’s most eligible men and a cutie pie to boot!

Galileo--one of the fathers of the Scientific Revolution, he introduced the idea of earth revolving around the sun.

Emma Stone--I first noticed how beautiful this talent actress was in Zombieland but she blew me away with her turn as a writer opening the door to Civil Rights in 1950's Mississippi in The Help.

Emily Dickerson--American poet who’s works, not released until after her death, are considered some of the most significant poetry in American Literature.

Queen Elizabeth the First--after surviving four stepmothers, she fought off death at the hands of a couple of Marys(one queen of England, the other, queen of the Scots) to rule over forty years during one of the most prolific times in English history.

Carol Burnett--A master comedian. I still think her take on Gone with the Wind is one of the funniest skits I’ve ever seen.

Vincent Van Gogh--Dutch post-impressionist painter who’s work influenced the world of art throughout the Twentieth century.

King David--Writer, Warrior, King of Israel and one of God’s most beloved.

And the list goes on.

Of course, I’ve always known how adventurous and fun gingers are because God blessed me with a family full of redheads, including my husband of 28 years and my youngest daughter! So now it's your turn--tell me about any of the wonderful redheads in your life!

Research in Rome!

2012-01-24T00:00:00.000-08:00

Debby at the Colosseum. The Forum is to the right. The Arch
of Constantine to the left.

Debby Giusti here! Hubby and I had a wonderful time visiting

Italy

earlier this month. We went with a groupof folks from our church, which was such a blessing. We took the prayer intentions from ourcongregation and prayed for all their needs at the churches we visited. All ofyou were covered in prayer, as well.

Folks asked if this trip wouldappear in a future book. I’m not sure atthis point, but I do know that being in Italyhelped me see beyond my own life and embrace another culture and the wonderfulpeople we met in Italy.

Saint Peter's Basilica

My husband and I had lived in

Germany

for three years andtraveled to

Italy

during that time. This tour brought back so many memories, and seeing everything anew, after all these years, made the sights even more meaningful.

Florence

I’m ready to travel again,but first, I need to finish the next book in my Military Investigations series,THE GENERAL’S SECRETARY. In my spare time, I’ll brainstorm new ideasabout a military CID agent who goes to

Italy

. Wonder what type of suspense story he’ll uncoverduring his travels?

Assisi

Wishing you abundantblessings!

Debby throws a coin in the Trevi Fountain so she'll
return to Rome.

Ciao!

Debby Giusti

www.DebbyGiusti.com

www.seekerville.blogspot.com

Not So Secret Sisters

2012-01-23T03:02:00.000-08:00

See if you can guess and name the following famous sisters.

1. These Two Solve Mysteries in Children’s Books

2. These Two Wrote Books

3. These Three Are Cartoon Characters

4. These Two Play Tennis

5. This One Sings; This One Acts

6. These Two Wrote Advice Columns

7. These Three Were Harmony Singing Group Whose Career Spanned the 1920s through the 1960’s.

8. These Two Sisters Lived in a Full House on Television

Ashley
LaVerne
Brittany
Charlotte
Ann
Mary-Kate
Maxene
Patty
Eleanor
Nan
Wynonna
Venus
Abby
Jeanette
Ashley
Serena
Flossie
Emily

Pamela Tracy put together this game for the Secret Sister unveiling party at her church. See if you can guess the pairs. I'll be checking in and out through-out the day and will let you know when someone gets them correct :)

BTW, I have one sister. Her name is Roxanne.

My next book, Love Finds You in Sunflower, Kansas, has a heroine with two sisters, one younger and one older.

BTW, I put two games together for the Secret Sister revealing party at my church. The other one is Famous Secrets. It over of the LI blog, today. Try that one, too. http://www.loveinspiredauthors.com/

Montana Match Interview

2012-01-22T01:00:00.000-08:00

How exciting to have Parker Watson the hero from Montana Match written by Merrillee Whren a January 2012 release from Love Inspired Romance.

1. Parker Watson, tell me the most interesting thing about you.

I like to invent stuff. My current project involves turning the waste from my ranch into

fuel. It’s a work in progress. I’ve been studying some of the methods used by other people

and trying to make something that will operate on my ranch.

2. What do you do for fun?

I love to snow ski, but I don’t do it very often because my work keeps me too busy. At

home, I like to watch movies with my girls.

3. What do you put off doing because you dread it?

I dread leaving the ranch and going into town because the people there don’t like me much.

4. What are you afraid of most in life?

I’m most afraid of confronting the people who believed the worst about me when I was

falsely accused of misconduct with one of my students.

5. What is the most important thing to you?

The most important thing to me is giving my girls the best life possible. They mean

everything to me. They keep me going, even when life doesn’t seem fair.

6. Do you read books? If so, what is your favorite type of book?

Most of the books I read are non-fiction. I work as a medical writer, and I do a lot of scientific

research for my work and my inventions. I don’t do much pleasure reading.

7. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

I would learn how to better deal with the people who hurt me. I don’t know what to say to

them anymore.

8. Do you have a pet? If so, what is it and why that pet?

I don’t have a pet myself, but there are lots of animals on the ranch. I recently gave our nanny

a dog for her birthday. It was my girls’ idea, and I thought it would be a great gift since she

has always wanted a dog of her own.

9. If you could travel back in time, where would you go and why?

Sometimes, I wish I could go back to the time when my life was simple and I was a respected

teacher in my community rather than an outcast. But then, my girls, Rose and Jasmine,

wouldn’t be a part of my life. There is no going back, so I have to accept the way things are.

FEATURED BOOK: MONTANA MATCH MERRILLEE WHREN

2012-01-21T06:05:00.000-08:00

Nanny to six-year-old twin girls isn't exactly the position Brittany Gorman is looking for. But she needs a job. And the twins' struggling single dad, rancher Parker Watson, needs all the help he can get. Soon Brittany is not only assisting with the girls, but also helping Parker make peace with his past. It seems Brittany's finally found a place to belong. And with two little matchmakers on the loose, there's no telling what the future holds. As her time on the ranch runs out, can Brittany and Parker find the strength to face that future—together?

Let's Discuss Elnora Today!

2012-01-20T06:08:00.000-08:00

I'm sorry to say Elnora isn't feeling well and couldn't post today. So I thought we could all take a lesson from her book and practice going into diva mode. Let's talk about how we deserve to be pampered when we're sick!

I imagine Big Daddy takes good care of Elnora when she's under the weather. Can't you just imagine her demanding it? :) What do y'all think? And are you lucky enough to have someone to give you all the sympathy and TLC you need when you get a migraine or the flu or even a pesky cold?

Let's chat!

Prayers for Our Readers

2012-01-19T06:30:00.000-08:00

This week we wanted to share some prayers for our readers in the New Year. Many blessings to all of you.

To our wonderful readers I wish the most blessed 2012. Without you, our stories don't come alive and our characters don't have the chance to tell their stories. May this new year bring you much joy, much love, and the perfect happy ending.

Christine Johnson

My prayer for my readers is simple. May God bless you with health, peace of mind, and prosperity. That covers just about everything, especially "peace of mind." It's a joy to write Christian fiction, and I hope others are as blessed as I've been by the wealth of inspiring stories.

Victoria Bylin

I pray that each reader gets exactly what she needs from my books. I ask God to open her eyes and heart to the message He has prepared individually for her, and that it will bear much fruit. I thank God for the many readers who have been blessings to me...encouragers, grateful hearts, and uplifters who have gone out of their way to let me know my work blesses them.
--Allie Pleiter

Handling Disappointment -- how do you do it?

2012-01-18T05:02:00.000-08:00

Cara Putman here. We had an interesting week at the beginning of the month in the Putman household. First, I had disappointing news from a publisher, then my eldest had a disappointing gymnastics meet.

Disappointment is terrible. Especially when you've worked as hard as you know how to work and hear that your efforts aren't quite there. They don't reach the level needed. Yet there's no clear direction on how to improve.

I cried out to God that I would do the work, I just don't know what that work is. For my daughter she can't feel the pike on her vault. How can you fix something you can't feel?

I'm such a doer. I want the four step plan, so we can take action, do something to move closer to the goal. Yet I get the sense that's not really an option this go around. I'm trying to pray. To circle the dreams with prayer and praise as Mark Batterson puts it in his new book The Circle Maker. I appreciate how God prepared me to handle these disappointments by reading this book and other things.

And as I've prayed about these disappointments, God has met me. First through a friend. He kept dropping her name in my mind, so I emailed her asking for help. She gave me an amazing gift of her time and talent by going through my synopsis and helping me identify all the good pieces I had in there and digging deeper to the elements that were missing. Then at practice I've watched my daughter put together elements and skills that have eluded her all year. She has to do the work, but that effort is being honored.

Here's what I know. Disappointment can push me to work harder, to go deeper as I chase my dreams. Disappointment can also push me away from my dreams. It's a choice I make. So I'm pushing deeper, checking that my dreams are the right ones, and committing to the extra work. What about you? What happens when you face disappointment? Do you have strategies for handling it?

Oregon covered SNOW

2012-01-17T07:15:00.000-08:00

Hi, Terri Reed here. We have a rare occurrence today in my part of the world. SNOW. And its sticking. At least it was. We haven't had snow stick to the ground where we live in two years.

What about where you live? Do you have snow?

A Shocking Revelation

Finding out she is heir to a fortune shocks Caroline Tully to her core. And to “qualify” for the inheritance, she just has to visit her newfound grandfather’s Mississippi home from Christmas to New Year’s. Adopted as a baby, Caroline knows nothing about her mother’s family...and doesn’t realize they can’t be trusted. When attempts are made on her life, there’s only one man who can protect her. Donovan Cavanaugh—a man who made her lonely heart want to love again. Posing as her fiancé, Don promises to find the would-be killer. But will his protection-and his love-be enough to keep her safe?

Protection Specialists: Guarding the innocent.

Cold Weather Fun

2012-01-16T05:45:00.000-08:00

This is Merrillee, and I'm wondering what you like to do for fun when the weather is cold. I live in Florida, so cold to me is anything below fifty-five degrees. Here is what my winter looks like. We have sand dunes instead of snowdrifts.

But I wasn't always a weather wimp. I lived in Montana and South Dakota when I was younger, so I know what cold is. I spent a few hours in Fargo, ND, one winter when it was fifty below zero without any wind chill. Now that is cold. I don't think there is anything fun about that kind of cold.

The setting for my latest book is Montana because I intend to write at least one book set in every state where I have lived. I remember Montana winters with lots and lots of snow. I walked to school dressed in so many clothes that I probably looked like the Michelin Man.

I made angels in the snow.

I built snowmen and ice skated until my feet felt like bricks.

I used these and other memories to depict winter fun for my hero's twin daughters.

My hero and heroine go snow skiing--something I never did until I was much older and not living in Montana.

Of course, Montana has some beautiful scenery, which is depicted well on the cover of my book, Montana Match, which is out this month.

So what do you like to do when the weather is cold, or do you prefer your weather warm?

Escape from the Badlands Interview

2012-01-15T01:00:00.000-08:00

Today we're welcoming Shane Mason, the hero of Escape from the Badlands, by Dana Mentink, a January release by Love Inspired Suspense

Wow, you've just had quite an adventure.

1.Tell us a little about yourself and how you came to be in the midst of such suspense. My brother was convicted of murdering his wife, but he is innocent. I know the person responsible is connected with the Desert Quest endurance race that passed by my brother’s ranch before his wife was killed. I figured my last chance to help clear my brother was to enter the race and find the truth myself.

2. So, during the book you met Kelly Cloudman. Tell us a bit about her. What was your first impression? When did you know it was love? Truth is, Kelly was not a stranger to me. I proposed marriage to her years before but circumstances separated us. In fact, it was my own scars that caused me to leave her. When I entered the race, I was floored to find out Kelly was the race medic. She’s tough and determined, and she won’t let anything happen to her adopted nephew Charlie. Neither will I.

3. What strengths/skills do you have? What is your greatest weakness? I’m athletic and good with horses. I love the outdoors and the rugged Badlands don’t scare me at all.

4. The only thing that scares me would be a repeat of what happened to my little brother, when he died on my watch. I don’t ever want to be responsible for a child again.

5. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? I would be the kind of person who can share their feelings easily. That’s just not me.

6. Where are you in your faith at the start of your story? I’m angry at God for what happened to my brother. I don’t want to depend on a God who would allow that to happen to a child.

7. Where are you in your faith at the end of the story? Opening up my heart, embracing forgiveness and moving on to finish the race God appointed me to run.

8. You've got a scripture at the beginning of the story. Tell us why this scripture is significant. Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance, and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews, 12:1-2

It’s a reminder that we need to keep our eyes on the prize we have in Jesus, not the difficulties of the race we find ourselves running. Keep running towards the Savior. He’s waiting at the finish line, no matter how difficult the journey.

9. If you could be a dessert what would you be and why? Never been asked that question before. Guess I’d say apple pie. Good old, all American dessert. Nothing fancy, but the kind of treat you keep coming back to.

FEATURED BOOK: ESCAPE FROM TH BADLANDS BY DANA MENTINK

2012-01-14T06:01:00.000-08:00

After his brother is convicted of murder, Shane Mason will do anything to clear his name. But when his investigations lead him to enter South Dakota's Desert Quest extreme race, Shane is fl oored by the surprise waiting for him. Kelly Cloudman—the woman he can't let himself love—is the race's medic…and the killer's next target. A painful memory from his past divided Shane from Kelly, but he's not going to let her out of his sight again. Even if it means revealing his secrets, Shane won't stop until he's found the truth—and kept the murderer from striking again.

Ask Elnora--About My Office??? Lenora Worth

2012-01-13T03:00:00.000-08:00

Hello, beautiful bloggers. I'm sitting in a fold-up chair in what will soon be my new office in what will soon be my new home. I have to admit it seems a bit strange for Elnora to be in an empty room with only an old computer desk and a chair. Oh, and a few books in the closet. Had to bring some books along. I have my book bag full of research sources, flash drives and two spiral notebooks with my scribblings all over them (that's what I call research notes.)But I also have to admit I kind of like the "quietness" of this little room. I love my office back at home, even though it's a mess and needs a major overhaul. I do an overhaul every few months and straighten it between books, but alas, what with all the NEW books I buy, the catalogues I must search and the manuscripts and mailings I receive, it's hard to keep that office tidy. I'm sure once I've decorated this one and settled in, it will become the same way. But this got me to thinking. What do you require in your office? What are some of the must-have things you keep around you. I have research books, how-to books, the books of my favorite writers--some dear friends, some who don't even know I exist, I have quotes and quote books, Bibles, dictionaries and pictures of friends. I have a special card that was sent to me when I first published by my dear friend Suzannah Davis. Suzannah passed away a few years ago, but I've never quite gotten over losing her. She was a mentor and a friend and she helped me to realize my writing dream. I look at that card just about every day and say a little prayer of thanks. I have Bible verses that hold special memories for me. My office is a special place because it's my place. Elnora has to have that room with a view. And I think we all need an Upper Room, where we can go and be close to Christ without any fanfare or attention. Yes, even Elnora needs her quiet time with the Lord. Anyway, my quiet little office has a nice window where I can see the sky and it has enough space to hold me and a few books. It will take some adjusting, being in a different writing space. But luckily, my imagination can travel with me. And from where I'm sitting now, I can see new adventures on the horizon. So, let's discuss our work spaces? Do you love yours? Hate it? Or do we need to encourage you to find your own space and let your imagination run wild there? There is nothing like a blank canvas. It just begs for adventure and embellishment. Elnora so believes in those two things. Tell me about your special place!

We've got resolutions...do you?

2012-01-12T04:54:00.000-08:00

Cara Putman here with the Ladies of Love Inspired Historicals. With a New Year come resolutions. You know, those desires we commit to in hopes of changing or improving.

The Craftie Ladies of LI Historicals have some of the following resolutions.

I've made three resolutions to improve my:
Body: To get back on my diet. Lost 25 lbs. last year, then let birthday, Thanksgiving, and Christmas sidetracked me. Have already gotten back on track.
Mind: To be more disciplined about my writing (to avoid deadline panic) and play spider solitaire less often.
Spirit: To be closer to the Lord, to know Him better, and to let Him work through me to be kinder and more thoughtful of others, especially my students.
--Louise Gouge

I don't make resolutions, but I do set goals. These include very specific writing goals, personal goals (like cutting back on sugar and exercising more), and spiritual goals, like spending more time listening during my prayer time. I recently read that a relationship requires both talking and listening, and our relationship with God is no different. To be honest, I'd been doing most of the talking, so this year I have a goal to stop, sit quietly, and listen.

--Christine Johnson

My resolution this year is to focus on one thing at a time. Sometimes I get so many balls in the air it is hard to juggle everything, but if I can focus on just one thing, give that one thing my full attention, I can get it done and move on (and get everything done).

--Lacy J. Williams

First and always is to dedicate myself to a deeper understanding of God and faith.

Secondly, my New Year's resolution is to choose discomfort over resentment. Instead of agreeing to tasks that I will later resent for taking my time (the usual c&c's - committees and cookies) I will choose the momentary discomfort of saying, "I can't at this time," -- rather than committing and feeling resentful later.

--Sherri Shackelford

In 2012, my primary goals are to be consistent in my daily Bible reading, participate in a ladies Bible study, manage my time more efficiently, and trust God's leading. This year will bring many changes, as my husband is transitioning out of the military. Our heart's desire is to move back home to Tennessee, to live once again near family and friends, but we will have to wait and see where God leads.

-- Karen Kirst

Learn how to rest and wait. I tend to fill my schedule to the max — because I know it maximizes my effectiveness. But in writing in particular I’m going to try to learn to let ideas germinate awhile. I also want to start hosting more people at our house as a way to deepen friendships beyond the surface.
--Cara C. Putman

Now, it's your turn. We'd love to know what your resolutions are as you embrace 2012.

Treasures from the Past

2012-01-11T02:07:00.000-08:00

Christine Johnson here to talk about journaling in the midst of a busy month. I have one Love Inspired Historical out and another due to my editor in a couple weeks. It's good to take a break with all of you today. Grab a cup of coffee, and let's settle in for a chat.

Readers often ask me why I chose to write in the post-WWI era. I love how that time had one foot in the horse-and-buggy era and one foot in the modern age of the automobile and airplane. It's also a fabulous period to research since many resources from that time are still available in print or online. As someone who used to write medieval romance, I truly appreciate that!

I'm also blessed that my grandparents grew up in the 1920s and left behind stories and journals of their experiences. My grandmother wrote about her excitement going from the farm to the big city for the first time. Her observations came in handy in All Roads Lead Home, my new release, when small-town girl Anna Simmons makes her first trip to Chicago.

Likewise, my grandfather drove across the country in the 1920s. Though his "journal" wasn't nearly as detailed as my grandmother's, he noted every breakdown - and there were many - as well as how much he spent on every little item. What a great resource for this month's book where Mariah Meeks decides to drive to Montana to rescue an orphan. My grandfather was a mechanic. Mariah is not. That means she needs to find a mechanic to go along. The only one willing is the man she jilted two years before. Add in his little sister, and it's bound to be a pretty rocky two thousand miles.

What a treasure my grandparents left for me! I've tried my hand at a lot of different journals, from travel to daily to devotional, though I'm not yet sure I want the next generation to read my meandering and often immature musings. I suspect they're not much different from prior generations. I could relate to my grandmother's feelings when she saw skyscrapers for the first time or worried over which gentleman would call on her. Some things stay very much the same.

Let's chat about journals and other memory-keepers like photographs. Did anyone in your family leave such treasures behind? If so, which do you value most and from what era? Do you keep a journal? Do you ever wonder if anyone will read it years from now?

Many blessings,

Christine

All Roads Lead Home

Love Inspired Historical, January 2012

Oh, those winter blues...

2012-01-10T08:47:00.000-08:00

Barbara Phinney here. Recently, I noticed that some people were a little crabby. It was on a loop, and they were quite testy. Last week, a woman rammed my grocery cart and yelled at me because I was in her way. Last night, I learned that my pastor's mother was feeling a little blue, and another woman felt her mother was also.

It's a tough time of year. Regardless of the fact that most of us have enjoyed a nice winter so far, the lack of sunlight, and mounting debts can bring to a grinding halt even the most bubbly of personalities. And with flu season here, and children generously spreading their germs around us, we can succumb in more ways than one.

What can we do? We all don't have access to light therapy, or a chance to fly off to sunnier and warmer places. Here are some tips I have gathered to help us all out.

Keep moving. Get up and exercise. Yup, I hate it too. And if you're already doing that, good for you! But why not encourage someone else? Break out the Wii and challenge someone to bowling or golf. Did you know that Wii will kick you off a golf course if you get a high enough score? Learned that the hard way.

Host a dinner/movie/fun night. Or attend one. Bring popcorn and tissues if necessary. Plan a dinner for a few friends. We did that the other day and played that game Apples to Apples. Everyone had a blast.

Get outside. Check out the sun on your face. Take your vitamins, Eat porridge and lentils and spinach and avocado. Maybe not all at once, though. But these food help mood.

Volunteer. Anywhere, but have fun. Spend time doing something fun, smiling all the time, and just relax. And when it's all done, get plenty of sleep.

Do you have any hints on how to get through this season?

Barbara writes inspirational romantic suspense. Check out her books here.
http://www.amazon.com/Barbara-Phinney/e/B001HPFZ16/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_1
or
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/c/barbara-phinney

What's Your Story?

2012-01-09T01:00:00.000-08:00

Jean Gordon here,having an exciting month so far as a debut Love Inspired author. I’ve been toall of my local stores to see which ones have stocked Small-Town Sweetheartsand put Local Author stickers on all of the copies. An unexpected perk of my“celebrity” was a photo of me holding my book in my day job's employee newsletter. It got me lots of congratulations and a common question from many ofthe well-wishers: Where do you find ideas for your stories. The short answer iseverywhere.

I got the idea for Small-Town Sweethearts when a family member told me she liked hernew church because the members were more standoffish and private. From that conversation, the story evolved: With the help of God and the love of Drew Stacey, a down-sizedWall Street analyst turned church camp manager, NYC assistant art director andformer town misfit Emily, ne Jinx, Hazard finds the thing she wants most in theplace she least wants to be — Paradox Lake. Through having to be responsiblefor her niece, interaction with the towns’ people, and falling in love withDrew, she learns the meaning of Christian fellowship.

The idea for the book I’mjust finishing came from my daughter. She’s gone back to graduateschool to become a Nurse Practitioner/Midwife, and when she started she wasconcerned about finishing college herself before her daughter is old enough togo to college. She’ll make it by three and a half years. So, I have a35-year-old single-father (Emily’s brother from Small-Town Sweethearts) who’sstarting college himself now that his daughter is in college. He wants to recapture the life he lost by choosing to raisehis now-college-age daughter alone. But a woman from the past, Anne Howard, anda precocious toddler interfere and show him that God has another plan for themall. I’m calling thebook Small-Town Dad.

My very firstbook Bachelor Father from Avalon Books (which I expect to have out as an ebookthis year) is very loosely based on a situation another adoptive family was facing when we wereadopting our son from Korea. The Korean adoption agency limited adoptions tomarried couples. Sadly, the mother in a local adoption died of cancer beforethe adoption was finalized and the father was fighting to keep his child.

The idea for mysecond Avalon Book Love Undercover (which I also expect to have out as an ebookthis year) came from an article the The Wall Street Journal that I read whiledoing research at work. The article was about a financial planner who was scammingelderly people. In my story, the hero is investigating a scam against hisgrandmother and the heroine appears to have been involved.

So, what’s yourstory?

The States We're Visiting in January

2012-01-08T07:49:00.000-08:00

A Love Inspired Romance landed in Montana today, probably at a book store, grocery store, or box store near you. Hmmmm, what's not to love about Montana Match. Set in present day, Montana, Author Merrillee Whren has this to say:

Montana is the fourth largest state in the US, but it is the third least populated state. The state has seven American Indian reservations. I chose Montana for the setting of Montana Match because I lived there when I was a child, and my goal is to set at least one of my novels in every state where I have lived. I also have twin girls in the story who are part Crow Indian. One of my best friends in fourth grade was a girl named Rose who was a Crow Indian. She inspired the little girls in the story.

We have two Montana books bumping up against each other at the stores this month! Christine Johnson wanted to make sure we really understand Montana, so in her book All Roads Lead Home, she goes back in time to 1922. Here's her offering:

Since All Roads Lead Home is a road trip story, it covers states from Michigan to Montana. I chose to end the trip in northwest Montana because I love the way the Rocky Mountains rise out of the plains like a snow-dusted wall. Glacier National Park, which was founded in 1910, hugs the border with Canada and is part of the first International Peace Park with Waterton National Park in Alberta. At the time of All Roads Lead Home (1922), you could drive west to the park and drive north along the eastern edge, but much of the travel inside the park was on horseback. Backcountry chalets provided overnight accomodations along the trails. People especially loved to see the glaciers, for which the park is named, but those glaciers are rapidly melting away. In 1922, trains ran across the southern boundary of the park through Marias Pass, but a car could not drive across the park. The Going-to-the-Sun Road across the park was completed in 1933. I've driven it many times...always with white knuckles!

We wave goodbye to Montana and head clear across the U.S. (Really, we can go no farther) to New York. Jean C. Gordon's comtemporary romance Small Town Sweethearts is an eye opening for those of you who can only imagine Manhattan. Really, New York is so much more. Go ahead, Jean, tell us how much more:

For the many people who think New York State is New York City: Upstate NY, where Small-Town Sweethearts is set, is quite different from the Downstate New York City area. Upstate we have dairy farms, mountains, lakes, orchards, and lots of villages and hamlets with fewer than 5,000 people that aren’t near any major cities. Wyoming County in Western New York, where I grew up, is the number one diary county in the state and has about the same number of milk cows as people (40,000).

If you're still in the mood for states, you can drop down to Mississippe and read Terri Reed's January release. In Mississippi, there's a taste of suspense.

The Fifty States and the Craftie Ladies

2012-01-07T07:02:00.000-08:00

Alabama
Alaska
Arizona - LI, And Father Makes Three, by Kim Watters, July 2012
Arkansas
California
Colorado - LIS Christmas Stalking, Margaret Daley, Nov. 2012
Connecticut
Delaware
Florida
Georgia - LIH, Hearts in Hiding by Patty Smith Hall, July 2012; LIS The Colonel’s Daughter by Debby Giusti, Aug; LI, A House Full of Hope by Missy Tippens, Feb. 2012.
Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois –LI, Falling for the Fireman, by Allie Pleiter, Feb 2012; LIS The Doctor's Defender, by Terri Reed, Oct 2012
Indiana
Iowa - LI, Once Upon a Christmas, by Pamela Tracy, December 2012
Kansas - LIH, Winning the Widow's Heart by Sherri Shackelford June 2012
Kentucky
Louisiana – LI Sweetheart Reunion-,April, LIS The Diamond Secret—September, byLenora Worth
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts - LIH, A Baby Between Them, by Winnie Griggs, June 2012; LIS The Deputy' s Duty by Terri Reed Jun 2012 ; LIS The Black Sheep's Redemption by Lynette Eason
Michigan - LIH, Legacy of Love by Christine Johnson, Nov 2012
Minnesota
Mississippi - LI, A Love Rekindled, by Margaret Daley, April 2012; LIS The Secret Heiress by Terri Reed Jan 2012
Missouri
Montana – LI Montana Match, by Merrillee Whren, Jan. 2012
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico – LI Redemption Ranch, April & LI Fresh Start Ranch, October by Leann Harris
New York – LI Small-town Sweethearts by Jean C. Gordon
North Carolina - LIS - Danger on the Mountain by Lynette Eason, Oct 2012
North Dakota
Ohio - LI, A Home for Hannah, by Patricia Davids, August 2012
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina - LIH Homefront Hero by Allie Pleiter, May 2012
South Dakota - LIH, All Roads Lead Home by Christine Johnson, Jan 2012
Tennessee - LIH The Bridal Swap (Smoky Mountain Matches) March 2012by Karen Kirst; LIH novella Smoky Mountain Christmas 2012 Karen Kirst
Texas - Her Rodeo Cowboy-April, Her Homecoming Cowboy-August Debra Clopton
Utah
Vermont
Virginia
Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin - LIH Their Frontier Family Nov 2012 Lyn Cote
Wyoming - LIH, The Homesteader’s Secret, May 2012, by Lacy Williams

Ask Elnora--About Words??? Lenora Worth

2012-01-06T03:00:00.000-08:00

Hello, beautiful friends. We've been talking about words. That makes sense, because we are writers. Writers love words. Elnora discovered words at a young age. I learned how to spell my name because my older sister kept drilling it into my head. Then I learned I could actually make up stories in my head and talk to people who weren't really there. I learned I had a vivid imagination that was filled with words. Then one of my older sisters (Glenda, who died in 1991 because of a drunk driver) took me to the library and got me a library card. I'll never forget the smell of the Carnegie Library. It smelled a bit old and musty but it also smelled pleasant and safe. It smelled like words--fresh and stuffy, new and old, tired and energized, happy and sad. The rows and rows of books looked like rows and rows of all things bright and exciting. I couldn't decide which books to pick first.I attended story hour each Saturday and we got to take home books and bring them back the next week. I couldn't believe I could actually take the books home and hold them and read them. It was such a gift. Somewhere in all of that excitement, I found a certain comfort in having books around me. Elnora learned so much from all those books--how to dream, how to express myself, how to dress, and how to act (or not act). I cried with "Charlotte's Web" and "Ol' Yellow" and "Sounder". I became an amateur detective with "The Hardy Boys" and "Nancy Drew". I went back in time with "Anne of Green Gables." And ... wonder of wonders ... I survived the war with Scarlett in "Gone With the Wind." So the word comfort always comes to mind when I think of books. I have books all over my office. On shelves, in cubbyholes and corners, stacked high against the wall. I have books on my nightstand and on the floor by my bed. Sometimes, I just hold a book and marvel that I actually know the writer. Then I giggle because I have books with my name on the cover. It's a delightful joy that never gets old. I have a closet full of clothes and shoes, and I enjoy shopping. But my books--those are my true treasures. Elnora learned as the youngest of seven, you are never really alone when you have a book in your hand. My word for this year is LOVE. But the one true word that makes me feel safe and happy and loved is ... comfort. Books bring me comfort. So that's the question. Why do we love books so much? Why do we love words so much? And aren't we blessed to be able to sit underneath a tree and read? Or sit by the fire and read? Or ride a bus and read? Or to hold a slim electronic contraption in our hands and hit buy and wait a few minutes and then, like magic, have a book right there in our hand?Words bring me comfort. How about you?

What's Your Word for the Year?

2012-01-05T05:15:00.000-08:00

It's a New Year...and with it thoughts turn to resolutions and desires to change.

Today the CRAFTIE ladies of historical fiction offer a few thoughts of a different nature. You see, one of the things I (Cara) have done in recent years was to ask God for a word for the year. That then becomes something of a direction for the year. One year that word was TRUST. Boy, did God have some healing He needed to do in my life in that area. Another year it was BELIEVE.

Now the historical (not hysterical) gals share a few of their words with you. And let us know what your word or verse is! We'd love to know.

My word for this year is "in His time." I've been too focused on rushing forward without taking time to dwell, to listen, and to hear His voice. This year, I need to slow down and let go of my time-table so I'm not getting in His way.

Christine Johnson

All Roads Lead Home - Love Inspired Historical (Jan 2012)

The Matrimony Plan - Love Inspired Historical (Aug 2011)

God has given me the word "connect" this year. Connecting is a level beyond communicating. I'm a good communicator, but I could be a better connector. I could benefit from staying more connected to friends and family. It's a year to see the connections between each of the things I do--how they could work together, support each other--and to see where connections are broken. I also need to stay a vine on the branch...connected to my God as the source of strength and purpose.

Allie Pleiter

My word for the year is Relationship. I know God is calling me to focus on a deeper walk/relationship with Him. I also want to deepen my relationship with my spouse and with the people around me. Too many of my close friends are people I only see a couple times a year at most. I feel a challenge from God to maintain those but also add an emphasis to friendships that have depth in my local community.

Cara Putman

"Rejoice! Again I say rejoice!" REJOICE is my word for the year (x2). I can't say it just once, and neither did the Apostle Paul when he wrote to the Philipians. I chose "rejoice" when a particular Christmas carol got stuck in my head and wouldn't leave. The peculiar thing about "Rejoice" is that it's just as much of a challenge as a word like "Serve" or "Obey." I don't know what 2012 holds, but it's a safe guess that it will have challenges, losses, and some heartache . . . as well as blessings, adventure and triumphs. In the midst of it all, I'm going to be saying, "Rejoice! Again I say rejoice!"

Victoria Bylin
Author of "The Women of Swan's Nest" series

My word is Time. God wants more of my time. Time in His word, time in prayer and time focusing on what He wants me to accomplish in this next coming year. I plan to focus on being a better steward of my time this year.

Rhonda Gibson

New Year...New Tagline

2012-01-04T02:00:00.000-08:00

I always find myselfpretty introspective this time of year, with all the talk of resolutions anddiets and self-improvement. You too?

One of the changes I’ve decided to make this year is my tagline.What I’m going with is:

Love that overcomes.

What do you think?

I chose this phrase because I really *really* love readingand writing stories where one of the main characters has to overcome seemingly insurmountableobstacles. It can be something from their past, or an obstacle that comes upduring the book, but the bigger or deeper the problem, the more I love thestory. Especially if it involves a big sacrifice at the end.

Here are some of my favorites:

PRIDE AND PREJUDICE (Austen): Darcy has to overcome Lizzie’sobjections, save her family’s reputation and conquer his pride to win herheart.

THE TWILIGHT SAGE (Stephenie Meyers): Bella has to overcomeher bad luck and clumsiness along with Edward’s need to control everything.

LONGING FOR HOME (Kathryn Springer): Alex has to overcome hisneed to be in charge of everything and the deeper fears of abandonment to beable to accept Kate’s love.

THE CHRISTMAS CHILD (Linda Goodnight): Kade has to overcomethe demons of his past before he can allow himself to trust Sophie’s love.

And in my upcoming release THE HOMESTEADER’S SWEETHEART(May), hero Jonas White has already overcome big obstacles, including his past,a scandal, and making a home out on the harsh Wyoming plains. But can he conquerPenny’s heart when they come from such different worlds?

I’m going to do a drawing from all the commenters today. Thewinner will receive an advance reader copy of THE HOMESTEADER’S SWEETHEART inPDF format. I’ll notify the winner by email so make sure your email is in yourcomment!

Are You Having a Holiday Today?

2012-01-02T06:09:00.000-08:00

Missy, here. I know a good many people have today off for the new year since it fell on a Sunday. Happy 2012 to all of you, our wonderful readers! Are you off today? If so, do you have anything special you usually do for New Year's Day?

In our family, we usually spend the day doing a budget. Yeah, I know. NOT FUN! But alas, it has to be done. :) We also usually take down the Christmas tree. This year, our tree is still fresh and beautiful. I just hate to take it down! I'm thinking of putting it off for just a few days, maybe until we celebrate Epiphany.

Here's a somewhat blurry photo of our tree. I was trying to catch the beauty of the lights, but they just look kind of strange. :)

So, what are you doing today??? :) Any resolutions you'd like to share with us?

Hello 2012

2012-01-01T01:00:00.000-08:00

The Craftie Ladies wish you a blessed New Year.

Wishing everyone a blessed time with family and friends, and great things in the year ahead. Naomi Rawlings.

Happy New Year. May you all have many blessings in 2012.

Merrillee Whren

To everyone reading this, I wish you a new year filled with unexpected blessing, challenges that stretch but not defeat you and joy in the knowledge that you are loved.

Winnie Griggs Small Towns, Big Hearts, Amazing Grace

I wish all of you a wonderful, blessed 2012!! May God fill your lives with love and happiness.

Missy Tippens

In 2012, may all your needs be met and all your dreams take wing. Blessings!Regina Scott

Last year was all the things it should have been: brilliant, tragic, spiritual, heartbreaking, exhausting, exhilarating, surprising, bewildering, dazzling and wondrous. I can only hope this year will be the same.

Sherri Shackelford, Winning the Widow's Heart, June 2012

Terri Reed here on this new day of 2012. I wish you all a wonderful and blessed new year. I have a new release out this month, the second book in my Protecting the Specialists series. The Secret Heiress hits the shelves on January 3rd. I'm doing a blog tour to celebrate the new release. Click here if you'd like the dates and links to the blogs. One commenter during the tour will be drawn to receive a ten dollar gift card.

What Are You Doing Today

2011-12-31T06:31:00.000-08:00

Pamela Tracy here on the last day of 2011. It's a Saturday, early, and we're loading up the quads to go on a ride :) We'll be home in time to join the neighborhood block party.

What are you doing today, the last day of 2011, a Saturday?

Ask Elnora--About Starting Over? Lenora Worth

2011-12-30T03:00:00.000-08:00

Hello, lovely end-of-the-year friends. Elnora doesn't make New Year's Resolutions. Elnora is resolved on a lot of things already.But I do so believe in starting over. I think the hip term these days is a "do-over." Sometimes, it's the only way to make things right, right?? For example, Elnora loves pie. Chocolate pie, coconut pie, pecan pie, and sweet potato pie. In fact, I've had sweet potato pie for breakfast all week long (and yes, I know it's off the charts on Weight Watchers points.) But ... there is something so comforting about a piece of pie and a good cup of coffee. Comfort food--it wraps us in memories like an old quilt. With each bite I take, I remember my mother making home-made pies. She'd stand at an actual pie safe (does anyone else know what one of those is??) and roll out the pie dough on the big enamel counter. The smell of a home-made sweet potato pie is like nectar from heaven. So I kind of feel that with each bite of that sweet pie, I get a nice do-over of some good childhood memories. Now, Elnora trying to bake her own--that might turn into a nightmare. I attempted gingerbread cookies last week, as some might recall. I have a big container of them sitting on my counter. They turned out pretty good, except one must dip the little brats in coffee in order to soften them for proper eating. I call them my biscotti gingerbread cookies. Not bad with a latte, let me tell you.I might need a do-over on how to bake cookies, too. But I digress. On to the new year and fresh, new perspectives. There is something enchanting and enticing about a blank calendar. There are no mistakes to white out. We have a whole new twelve months to get things right or discover something new and challenging. We'll have plenty of time to explore all the possibilities that stretch over months and months of pure white just begging us to pencil something in. Some people pick a new word for each new year. Some people decide they will finally do that one thing they've secretly wanted to do and oh, joy, they have a whole year to follow their bliss. A new year offers everyone a second chance or a first adventure. So let's discuss. What will you do with the next twelve months? I hope we can all fill that white space with lots of notes and exclamation points so when those twelve months are up, we can look back and nod and say "That was a good day" or "I'm so glad I tried that and succeeded."Are you ready for new beginnings and a few do-overs? After all, it should be as easy as pie, right?

So What Did You Get?

2011-12-29T01:57:00.000-08:00

What books did you get for Christmas? Anyone get a book they'd been longing for?

Before Christmas, I was wanting to read another Christmas themed book and found at Walmart Mail Order Christmas Brides by Jillian Hart and Janet Tronstad. It was a wonderful book and I enjoyed both stories. I think that book made the USA today extended list. Ladies, am I right?

Musings on the matter of New Year’s resolutions

2011-12-28T00:00:00.000-08:00

The presents are all unwrapped and put away (or returned to the store for a better fit), the leftovers are eaten, and all the relatives have headed home. Now my thoughts turn to the New Year and the resolutions I should make.

What is it about this season that makes us think of improving ourselves? I know I’m not the only one to feel that this is the perfect time to stop some bad habits and start some good habits. I guess January 1, or any given Monday in the year, is a great time for new beginnings. We say “This will be my year/week to: start my diet, be more disciplined at (fill in the blank here), be kinder to coworkers/children/spouse” or, in my case, my students. And did I mention … start my diet.

According to a news report I heard (can’t recall the particulars of when or where), dieting is the number one resolution people make every January 1. I did it last year and for the first time in my life kept going until my birthday in October. Then came Thanksgiving and Christmas. (Okay, let’s talk about holiday overeating. Is it a worse mistake/error/sin to overeat on these special days OR to refuse a second helping of old Aunt Sally’s special, delicious mincemeat pie that she made with arthritic hands and love in her heart? I generally opt for showing love back to Aunt Sally.) So it’s back to the old treadmill for me.

And since I did so well on last year’s resolution, I think I’ll add another couple of things to my list of self-improvements. I have a writing deadline, so being more disciplined in my writing habits is a must. Must stop playing spider solitaire and watching television talk shows. Must instead sit myself in the desk chair and write my book. One of my creative writing teachers used to say “Few people like to write. Many people like to have written.” I think he had something there. So I resolve to shut off the television and maybe even delete the spider solitaire program from my computer so I won’t be scrambling the week before my deadline.

But while these are both important resolutions, I think the one thing the Lord seems to be challenging me with these days is to be kinder to others: The Walmart checkout girl, the harried postal clerk, other drivers, that certain someone with whom I have a private grievance. I’m sure you have your own list.

And maybe, just maybe, in 2012, I can go beyond my birthday and Thanksgiving and Christmas … and have fewer regrets next year at this time.

What resolutions are you making this year? Please share with us and maybe add a word or two about successes of the past. Or ways you hope to improve.

Blessings to you all in 2012!
Louise M. Gouge

Recuperating!

2011-12-26T03:00:00.000-08:00

Missy, here. I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas! And I hope you're not experiencing post-holiday letdown. Sometimes it can be tough after all the build up and the excitement. But now it's time to move on and look toward the new year!

So what did you get for Christmas? Did you receive any books? We'd love to hear about your holiday!

Merry Christmas to all our readers!

2011-12-25T01:01:00.000-08:00

Like many of you, The Craftie Ladies are at home with family and friends celebrating this joyous Christmas day. We want to thank all our readers for giving us your time and participation on this blog and by reading our books. We've put together a Christmas "card" of wishes for all of you. Enjoy your holiday. Many wishes for a blessed Christmas and New Years. Lisa Mondello

Linda Goodnight with her two youngest daughters wishing you all a very Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas to all our readers. Louise Gouge

Wishing all of our readers a blessed and joyous day. And prayers for a prosperous New Year. Leann Harris

Since my husband and I travel a great deal to see family over the holidays, we seldom have a Christmas tree, but we always have our Swedish Christmas tree. My father-in-law made this for our first Christmas, and it holds a special place in our hearts. I wish you the deep joy of Our Savior's birth wherever you may be. Christine Johnson

Merry Christmas and a Joyous and Prosperous New Years to you and yours. Jean Gordon

Missy Tippens: Greetings from the Tippens's house to yours! We pray you have a very merry, love-filled Christmas celebrating the birth of our Savior.

May Christmas fill you with wonder, for like the shepherds in the fields, you have received tidings of great joy. Unto us the Son of God has been born. Patricia Davids

And I wish for everyone--Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, Happy New Year and Peach on Earth !!!!! Lenora Worth

Wishing you a Merry Christmas from the wintery world of Northern Michigan.
Naomi Rawlings

Merry Christmas to all our readers! I hope you enjoy the season and eat lots of great food and spend time with those you love. God bless. -Lacy Williams

Lisa Mondello: May the season of Christmas remind you all of the importance of family and good friends. May you be rich in both.

Wishing all our readers a blessed Christmas time, filled with family and friends, as we celebrate God's most precious gift to us. May you experience His love in a special way this season. Sandra Orchard

Merry Christmas and have a Blessed New Year. Kim Watters

Hi, Terri Reed here. I hope this finds you wrapped in the love of our savior, surrounded by family and friends and full of the spirit of the season. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

"I wish our readers a very blessed holiday and a new year filled with true love." Lyn Cote

As of the date I sent this in I hadn't put up my 'big tree' yet, so I thought I'd send a picture of this tabletop version. It's very pretty, especially in a darkened room, and was made for me many years ago by a very dear friend so I have a special attachment to it.
To each of you who visit here, I wish you a very joy-filled and blessed Christmas, surrounded by family, friends and warm memories.

Merry Christmas to all the Craftie Ladies and our readers. May the joy of Christ be in your hearts today and in the coming New Year. Merrillee Whren

This Christmas Eve

2011-12-24T07:08:00.000-08:00

We're writers

We're readers

We're bloggers

We're friends

Bookworms of the world UNITE.

Merry Christmas.

Ask Elnora--About Christmas stories? Lenora Worth

2011-12-23T03:00:00.000-08:00

Hello and Merry, Merry Christmas. Only a couple of days away. Elnora loves when Christmas is on a Sunday. It's like a double blessing or a double scoop of the best ice cream in the world. Down here, that would be Blue Bell Pralines and Cream. Why is it that all I can think about is food? Right now, I'm letting my gingerbread cookie dough "set" so I can make some gingerbread cookies. I haven't done this in years and I almost didn't get to do it tonight. That's because I have one of those big powerful mixers. You know the kind that weighs more than a kitchen sink and whirls like a helicopter when you hit go. Well, I lifted mine up onto the counter but the cord got stuck under the base. So I held the mixer steady with one hand and tugged on the cord with the other. But I forgot to lock the top part down. It fell on my thumb! And pretty much crushed it. I screamed in pain but my husband was at work and my son upstairs playing loud music. Couldn't even get the cat to show me any sympathy. So I stood over the sink, dizzy, and watched as my thumb starting bleeding. Then I cried. Because it hurt like all get-out. Then my son came downstairs to get a refill of coffee and heard me whimpering and finally got me a bandage. He asked me what I was doing and I said, "Trying to make some cookies! And I am going to make those darn cookies, even with a throbbing left thumb." I did make them, but put in the wrong amount of molasses. After I finally figured that out, I added more and the dough looked like it might be turned into cookies. I have to wait two hours according to the recipe. I have several sizes of gingerbread cutters. Let's hope I don't cut a finger off trying to make those cookies. Right now, my thumb is still throbbing but luckily I don't need it that much to type. (Does it seems to you all that I have a lot of strange accidents? Falling in NY and cutting my head open?? Bad medicine in Orlando and swelling up twice my size? Back going out in Washington when I was--yes--trying to fasten my shoe?) I tell you, these cookies better be worth it! But that got me to thinking about Christmas stories. You know the kind that get passed down from generation to generation. I'm thinking we all have those kind of stories (like my favorite Christmas movie "Christmas Vacation!!!") I'm sure the "crushed thumb" story will go down in history. My favorite one is when Big Daddy and I had only been married a year or so and he bought me a new dining room set, table, chairs and a hutch. We lived in an apartment in Atlanta, GA. It was Christmas Eve and we had his cousin over visiting. (He lived in the same complex). Big D went outside and I waited and waited to see what was going on. Then it started raining. Hard. I heard a banging on the patio doors. It was my sweet husband and the whole dining room set. He'd planned to leave it on the patio and sneak it in later, but the rain changed all of that. The cousin and I helped him bring in my surprise. I still have that dining room set but I don't think it will go to Florida with us. One of our children will inherit it. So, let's talk funny Christmas stories. Do you have some of those?? Let's discuss. And Merry Christmas to all of you and God bless us everyone!

One of my favorite readers-- from Lenora Worth

2011-12-22T03:00:00.000-08:00

One of the things I love about being a writer is how I get to "meet" people from all over the world. Right here on our blog, I have made friends with several of our readers. AusJenny is one! We love you, Jenny from down under. But the one fan and reader I'd like to talk about today lives many, many miles from me. Olufisayo Alabi lives in Nigeria. She came across our blog a few months ago and she was so excited to find us. She reads the online short stories we sometimes write at eharlequin. And she wants to write her own love story. Olufisayo and I have been e-mailing back and forth since the day she made a comment on the blog. (And I'm editing one of her stories for her.) She is 34 and has two beautiful sons. Her husband is a minister. She loves shoes almost as much as I do. Which is why I sent her two pairs recently. I also sent her several books because she can't find the full length books where she lives. We are learning so many interesting things about each other. She prays for my family and I pray for her family. She started her own website and hopes to one day help others publish their work, too. She calls me MUM and I call her DAUGHTER. I truly believe the Lord puts people in our path at just the right time. Olufisayo has prayed me through some tough days, let me tell you. She is beautiful in spirit and in her kind words to me each day. If any of you would like to send her books, e-mail me and I will give you her address. Be aware, it costs a small fortune and takes weeks and weeks for her to receive packages. But it was well worth it to me to be able to share my books and some "kicking" shoes with her. Olufisayo, I hope you are reading this and that you will respond and tell my writing buddies and our bloggers more about yourself. I thank you for reading our short stories and for talking to us on the blog. This is part of the reason we love to write. We love and appreciate our readers the world over. Thank you so much, DAUGHTER!!!

THE 12 SHIRTS OF CHRISTMAS

2011-12-21T00:09:00.000-08:00

Hello, Winnie Griggs here. Today I thought I’d post something of a light hearted nature. I’m usually fairly conservative when it comes to wardrobe choices, but the holidays bring out the child in me in a number of ways, one of them fashion. I never can resist the impulse to get a new themed shirt when the holidays roll around. Over the years I’ve amassed quite a collection, but as you know, there is only about a 3-4 week period each year when one can wear these. The down side of this is that a large bit of closet real estate is devoted to clothing that doesn’t get much usage. The up side (I think) is that these items seldom wear out.

Anyway, I’m going to share a few of my personal favorites with you, complete with photos.

There are, of course, the obligatory Santa themed shirts, such as these two.

Then, for the blatantly mercenary, there are the gift themed shirts.

More tastefully decorated are the floral themed shirts with poinsettias and holly.

And for the pet lovers we have cats and dogs sporting seasonal accessories.

There are more, but I’ll spare you the rest.

Of course, there are times where one wants to give a more subtle nod to the season, and one way to do this is to take a nice outfit and accessorize with fun bits of seasonal jewelry. I have quite a number of these pieces as well. Below is a picture of some of them I picked out for their sentimental value. Most of them are pieces that my children gave me when they were younger and for that reason I cherish them. The brooch of the Santa carrying a sack is one that belonged to my grandmother and I think of her every time I wear it.

So what about you? Do you have any fun or sentimental clothes or accessories you wear this time of year?

And, on a more serious note, I want to wish each and every one of you a very joy-filled and blessed Christmas.

A Wonderful Christmas Time

2011-12-20T06:37:00.000-08:00

Hi, this is Margaret Daley. I hope that all of you are having a wonderful Christmas time (I'm listening to that song right now as I write), but I do know that this time of year isn't always a time of happiness for everyone. It would be great if it was, but life happens and tragedy occurs in December just like the other eleven months of the year.

I don't know about you but right now my life is so busy with too much to do and not enough time. Then you add in all the extra stuff we do at this time of year and I can become overwhelmed pretty fast. So what do you do at this time of year to preserve your sanity? How do you slow down and really appreciate what Christmas means: the birth of Jesus, our Saviour?

I'm keeping my focus on the Lord. I'm taking each day as it comes. I'm prioritizing what I need to get done and what can be let go until after Christmas. I'm making sure I have time for family and friends even if that means my house isn't as clean as I like or I just let a few things go. I'm taking the time to really listen to the words of some of the Christmas music I love like Mary, Did You Know. What about you? How do you deal with the craziness of the season?

I do know one thing. I wish all of you a blessed Christmas of peace and love.

Christmas Story FUN! Round Robin

2011-12-19T00:35:00.000-08:00

Hello from Lisa Mondello! It's been a while and I'm so happy to be here today to kick off what I hope will be a lot of fun for the Craftie Ladies AND for our Readers! Yes, that's you!! We get so much response from our readers about how much they love our short stories here on the Craftie Ladies blog. Here's a secret...WE have a blast writing them too. And this go around we want to share the fun with all of you.

If you checked Elnora's blog post from Friday, then you got a hint of what we're doing here today. We are doing a 1 DAY short story where the Craftie Ladies and our readers can each write a 140 character addition to a short holiday story that I will start at the end of this blogpost.

As Elnora posted, the premise is based on Twitter. (It's okay if you've never been on Twitter before. You'll catch on REALLY fast.) I will start the story. YOU will read my post and whoever it is that posts IN THE COMMENTS AREA and pick up the story from there. Don't be shy. Take the story in whichever direction you want to take it. This will go on ALL DAY TODAY (And into the wee hours if you're posting from around the world) and by the end we'll have an entire story.

So...

1. Read the posts at the bottom of this blog AND in the comments area.

2. Add a few sentences about what happens next.

3. Keep coming back to see what everyone else adds so you get the whole story.

4. No comments, just additions to the story so we call can read the story straight down until the end.

5. At the end of it all, we can comment about how much fun we had.

It's meant to be fun. It's meant to make us all laugh in between all the hustle and bustle of Christmas shopping and decorating. Please join in. All are welcome!

So without further ado...

There were 3 days until Christmas. I put the last present under the tree and noticed a present I didn't put there. I looked at the tag curiously and gasped!

The Christmas Quilt by Patricia Davids

2011-12-18T01:00:00.000-08:00

How exciting to have Gideon Troyer with us, the hero from The Christmas Quilt, by Patricia Davids, a December 2011 release from Love Inspired Romance.

Gideon, tell me the most interesting thing about you.

I’m a pilot. Most people find that interesting, but I’m also ex-Amish. I left my Amish community and my family when I was 21. I left behind the girl I loved, too. When she turned down my proposal, I knew I couldn’t stay.

What do you do for fun?

Are you kidding? I fly. I do it for fun, I do it for work, I’d do it in my sleep if I could.

What do you put off doing because you dread it?

Now you’re getting to the sore point in of my life. I’ve never been back to see my family. When I left after being baptized into the faith, I knew my family would shun me. I should go, my parents are getting older, but I dread it.

What are you afraid of most in life?

Having the engine cut out at four thousand feet and finding out I don’t have a parachute.

Other than that, I’m afraid something important is missing in my life and I’m not sure what it is.

What do you want out of life?

Two things. I want to help Rebecca Beachy earn enough money to have the surgery that might restore her sight and I want to know why she turned down my offer of marriage all those years ago. That question haunts me.

What is the most important thing to you?

I guess I would have to say a strong work ethic and friends.

Do you read books? If so, what is your favorite type of book?

I love books about flight pioneers. I’m not into fiction. I like to read about things that actually happened.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

If I could change one thing? Just one? I guess it would be the amount of time I spend trying to make a success of my air charter service. I should take care of myself and maybe get back into going to church. I miss the strong sense of faith I once had. I’m not sure why I let that slip away. Sometimes, not going to church is easier than facing what you’ve done wrong.

Do you have a pet? If so, what is it and why that pet?

No pets for me. I don’t have time for one.

If you could travel back in time, where would you go and why?

I’d go back to the day Rebecca Beachy told me she didn’t love me anymore. I wouldn’t leave until I had my answer.

FEATURED BOOK: THE CHRISTMAS QUILT BY PATRICIA DAVIDS

2011-12-17T03:00:00.000-08:00

Years ago, Rebecca Beachy kept her reasons for rejecting Gideon Troyer's marriage proposal a secret. Then Gideon left their Amish community. Now, Rebecca crafts quilts to raise money to cure her blindness. She's also busy guarding her heart against love. Until Gideon returns, at risk of being shunned, to make the winning bid on one of her exquisite quilts. Will the quilt—a patchwork promise of rediscovered love—bring Gideon and Rebecca back together again?

Ask Elnora--About a few of my favorite things?? Lenora Worth

2011-12-16T03:00:00.000-08:00

Fa, la, la, la, la, my little elves! My house is ready for Christmas. Well, almost. I still have some things in the garage to sort through but for the most part, Elnora is in the spirit of the season. I have my little shoe tree up in the power room. It's tiny so it fits on the counter. It is truly one of my favorite things--a tiny Christmas tree with tiny shoe ornaments. A good friend gave Elnora a Barbie shoe tree and it is very tiny. I have sitting next to the bigger tree. As I was decorating and rediscovering all the ornaments I've collected over the years, I got to wondering--what are a few of your favorite things? Now I have that song in my head and I can see Julie Andrews in "The Sound of Music" twirling around on that mountain top!So here is a list of some of my favorite things: (Please share yours, too!)Red Velvet CakeHot chocolate on a cold nightFriends who help finish decorating the Christmas tree when they arrive for a party at my house!A husband who remembers to buy my latest favorite thing--those yummy Newton Fruit Thin cookies--without me reminding him!A good rich cup of strong dark roast coffee in a pretty white Corning Ware cup (from the set of vintage Christmas cups a friend gave me because she knew I liked them).ChocolateKitten heel pumpsDresses from the fifties and early sixties, with shimmering white pearls.Christmas songs that make me stop and think of Christ.Saying "Merry Christmas" and knowing I have the freedom to do that.Writing books that allow me to share my faith.All of you!Let's discuss favorite things. What are some of yours?And .... we are giving our readers a special Christmas treat on Monday, December 19th. We are going to have some fun by asking all of our authors and our friends who post to help us write a story. The premise is based on Twitter. One of our authors will start the story with a couple of sentences. Then we ask the next person who posts to pick up the thread and write a couple of sentences, and then our authors will stop by to help and so on and so on, all day long. Remember, no comments! Just write to continue the story thread. It will be like that game of gossip we played as children. It will be a Christmas story, of course. But we want you to participate by helping us, line by line, to write this story. Want that be so delightful and fun?? I can't wait to see what everyone writes. I know we have some stars out there, waiting to shine. Hope you'll return on Monday to have some fun with us!

Hurry, Christmas is almost here!

2011-12-15T04:05:00.000-08:00

Pat Davids here.
Christmas is fast approaching. Everywhere people are rushing to get things done. Rushing to shop and wrap the prefect gifts. Rushing to bake goodies. Rushing to clean and decorate the house. The world is in a rush to make it all perfect before Christmas Day. Hurry, hurry, hurry, there are only ten days left!

Whoa.

Stop a moment.

Take a breath.

Take another breath.

Take one more. Make it deep this time. Breathe in…in…in as deep as you can. Now blow it all out…out…out for as long as you can.

Good. Do it again. Take a deep breath. Blow it out.

Your blood pressure has just gone down by ten points - my gift to you this holiday season. The madness of this time of the year is part of the fun, it really is, but don’t let it become a source of stress. Take care of yourself. Remember to slow down and just breathe.

If you need a little longer down time, I suggest you mix up a cup of hot chocolate and curl up with a good Love Inspired book. Like The Christmas Quilt by me. (Shameless self-promotion here.) This Amish story of a second chance at love will give you the opportunity to forget for a few hours about the rush and ruckus our lives have become and slip into a simpler, kinder world. Your blood pressure will go down another ten points.

Here is my Christmas wish for you.
May the holidays find you Merry and Bright at the end and sorry to see them go.

The True Meaning of Christmas

2011-12-14T06:09:00.000-08:00

I don’t know aboutyou, but each year I struggle to stay focused on the true meaning ofChristmas-the celebration of Christ’s birth and His perfect gift to us. I get distracted by the superficial traditions,fretting over finding those perfect gifts and worrying my boys won’t haveenough or won’t like what they’re given. I make lists for each child, checking them more than twice to make sureeveryone gets an equal amount. Don’t get me wrong, I really enjoy giving gifts! But I worry the truemeaning will lose out to the quest for more stuff.

In order to combatthis, we try to incorporate traditions that put the focus back on Jesus. On Christmas Eve, the boys and I bake abirthday cake for Jesus. Thispicture is of my oldest son, Jacob, and the cake he helped decorate. We read children’s books like God Gave Us Christmas by Lisa TawnBergren and others that explain that, while cookies and decorated trees andpresents are wonderful, Jesus is the reason for our celebration. We watch the movie, The Nativity, with our oldest son, andwe all go as a family to see our living nativity at our church. Recently, our pastor suggested thatwhen we see Christmas lights, we think of Jesus, the Light of the World. I explained this to my boys, and nowwhenever we see lights, my six-year-old says, “Look! I see Jesus!” Brings tearsto my eyes and a smile to my face.

I’m always lookingfor new ideas. How about you? How do you and your family celebrateJesus?

Karen Kirst

The Reluctant Outlaw, LIH September 2011 Smoky Mountain Matches

The Bridal Swap, LIH March 2012 Smoky Mountain Matches

Smoky Mountain Christmas, LIH novella Christmas 2012

www.karenkirst.com

Remembering...

2011-12-13T06:21:00.000-08:00

Are you a collector?

I used to collect stamps and coins and every other imaginable thing a child finds to collect. But I have one collection (besides books) that I still cherish and add to every year—my Christmas ornaments.

Some of the ornaments were lovingly crafted by my children. Some commemorate births and anniversaries. Some I crafted. But most were gifts.

Why am I telling you this?!

Because one of those ornaments, the dove photographed below, became an important symbol in my debut Love Inspired Suspense, Deep Cover (September 2011).

The undercover cop hero had given the dove to the heroine when they’d dated previously, saying, A soaring dove to remind you God is watching over you when I can’t be. She hung it from her rearview mirror. After the hero left her, it became a reminder that she needed to lean on God alone.

Later after the heroine’s world has crashed around her, and quite literally around the dove in the car, the hero sets out to rescue and return the gift as a symbol of God’s protection where he failed.

As I opened my box of Christmas ornaments this year and pulled out that dove, I was reminded of the story thread it inspired, and more importantly of the truth behind it. That God is watching over each one of us. We may not always feel that He is, but if we’ve surrendered our hearts to him, He has promised to never leave us.

My prayer is that each one of you will experience His love in a richer way this season.

As a special gift to my readers, I’ve generated some novel “Extras”. Think DVD extras, except for a novel. Things like deleted scenes, bloopers etc. You are all invited to hop over to my website and check them out. There are also two free recipe books you can download, and for my newsletter subscribers, a bonus Christmas story.

Your turn: Do you have an interesting or unusual collections?

Tis the Season for Folly

2011-12-12T00:24:00.000-08:00

Last week I baby-sat my two youngest granddaughters (ages 2 and 4) for a few hours. I thought we could do a Christmas project together. I picked an ambitious one--building a gingerbread house. That actually might not have been a bad idea if I had made one before Friday. I hadn't so that was my first problem. As you can see from the above picture, I had several problems. It was a house for about ten minutes then began falling apart.

My second problem was how do you get a 2 and 4 year old not to eat the icing or piece of candy while trying to make the gingerbread house? By the time they were through they were on a sugar high. While I was helping one, the other one was stealing a lick of the icing.

Third problem: I didn't plan for how messy two little girls could get. Right after we made the house or should I say tried to make the house, I had to take my four year old to pre-K. Not only did I have to clean the girls up, but myself and my kitchen table. I still have frosting on the glass table. Not easy to clean up. And then that sugar high kicked in and they were not cooperating on getting ready to leave so I could take my granddaughter to school. What kind of projects have you done with your child or grandchild that didn't quite turn out how you expected?

With all that said, doing things with your family makes Christmas special and I had so much fun doing the gingerbread house (sent it home with them to eat). This is what I try to portray in my Love Inspired book for December called His Holiday Family. This is the first story in the series called A Town Called Hope about a town that recovers from a hurricane and comes together to rebuild.

Blurb for His Holiday Family:

When Hurricane Naomi tears through a small Mississippi town, a daring rescue unites two heroes. Nurse Kathleen Hart is a single mom racked by guilt over her husband's death. Firefighter Gideon O'Brien—orphaned as a young boy—has lost too many people he cared for. To rise above the storm's devastation, Gideon helps Kathleen and her sons rebuild their home. As Christmas approaches, they discover that even the strongest of storms can't destroy a romance built on the foundation of faith.

Duty to Protect by Roxanne Rustand

2011-12-11T01:00:00.000-08:00

Today we're welcoming Emma White, the heroine of DUTY TO PROTECT, by Roxanne Rustand, a December, 2011 Love Inspired Suspense. Wow, you've just had quite an adventure.

1. Tell us a little about yourself and how you came to be in the midst of such suspense.

Honestly? my whole life has meant living on the edge. From when I was orphaned as a kid, to when I was adopted by an older couple. They were never warm and doting people, but they gave me security--until they landed in a witness protection program. From then on we all lived in fear that was sure justified--my adoptive mom was killed in a suspicious accident, and just recently, my dad was murdered in a grocery store parking lot. After that, I had to run for my life.

2. So, during the book you met Jake Kincaid. Tell us a bit about him/her. What was your first impression? I used to love watching old westerns on the TV. The idea of good conquering evil, the guys in the white hats prevailing, filled me with longing for justice and safety in my own life. I never thought I'd meet a cowboy hero of my own, but there he was--I was on the run, and he swooped in to save a little boy from being hit by a drunk driver who'd pulled in way too fast in a parking lot. With my pursuers closing in I had to find a way to escape, and I took a chance with Jake. I used to think that God had forgotten about me. But that night? I know it was more than mere chance that I ran into Jake Kincaid.

3. What strengths/skills do you have? What is your greatest weakness? I think all of us have a strong will to live, but my background taught me a lot of about developing survival skills, and as tough as it was, it did make me strong and determined. My weakness? Definitely, a lack of trust.

4. What scares you? Anyone I don't know--because the drug cartel that wanted to wipe out my family was both wealthy and resourceful. They could hire anyone to come after me. Someone I didn't recognize could show up out of the blue.

5. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? I'm working on it. I would love to be able to lose that instinctive shiver of dread when I encounter someone new…or see a suspicious looking stranger across the street. My first response is to turn tail and run, but that is no longer necessary…I hope.

6. Where are you in your faith at the start of your story?

As I said before, I was sure God had forgotten about me. Losing my biological and adoptive parents was pretty devastating. How many people face those kinds of losses, along with the absence of any kind of stable home? I never had friends, either, because in a life on the wrong it's hard to get close to anyone. I thought I was all alone in the world.

7. Where are you in your faith at the end of the story?

I came to realize that God had been with me every step of my journey--keeping me safe,ultimately guiding me to the one man in this world who is so perfect for me. My faith is deepening every day now, and I feel like a different person.

8. You've got a scripture at the beginning of the story. Tell us why this scripture is significant.

When I first read this verse, it was as if God was speaking directly to me. I wish I'd had it to hold close to my heart since I was a child.

It is: "Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for what he has done. If you do this, you will experience God's peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Jesus Christ." Philippians 4: 6-7.

9. If you could be a dessert what would you be and why?

I'm finally living out my dreams, now. With a secure and happy home, and people who love me. And what's more evocative of that than apple pie ala mode?

FEATURED BOOK: DUTY TO PROTECT BY ROXANNE RUSTAND

2011-12-10T04:58:00.000-08:00

After nearly a lifetime in witness protection, Emma Graves depends on the anonymity of her false identity. But when her parents die under suspicious circumstances, and Emma is framed for murder, all security is gone. There's nothing to do but run.Cop-turned-rancher Jake Kincaid is an unlikely defender. Why would an ex-cop believe an accused killer? Still, Jake makes Emma feel safe. With his drive to protect, she knows staying on his ranch endangers them both—yet now that her heart's engaged, she's not sure she can walk away.

Ask Elnora--About Coupons??? Lenora Worth

2011-12-09T06:34:00.001-08:00

Good morning, my little elves. Elnora is blurry eyed today. I got really brave yesterday and ventured out to shop! Before I went into the fray I had a nice time visiting a library open house with my friend Judy Christie (Author of the new YA novel Wreath, by the way). The lovely staff at the darling Stonewall Library had prepared great food--a chocolate cake to die for--and other wonderful munchies. So we sat a spell and chatted with Miss Nell and the other book lovers. Then we headed downtown and shopped at a very hip place called artspace. (No caps.) Elnora bought a lovely mirror for the Florida home. It's decorated in buttons and jewelry. Very Blingy! We had more chocolate in the cafe there. We shared a giant whoopie pie. Yummy!!! After Judy and parted, I went to the post office and then decided since I was out and all chocolated up, I'd get some more shopping done. I had a purse full of store coupons, so I figured I'd save money. I did. But in order to save money, one has to spend money, right? I bought various presents for various people. I can't say what I bought because some of them actually read this blog! But I had coupons. Of course, the coupons I had in my purse were expired. Still, everything I found was marked down and I hit a good time of the day--more mark downs! I had Kohl's cash and Target deals. So all in all, not a bad experience. The other shoppers were even nice. They must have had two rounds of chocolate, too! Anyway, I got home and checked my e-mail and there I found another Kohl's coupon for twenty extra percent off. Of course, I had my phone with me in the store, but didn't know I could have pulled up the e-mail and used that code, too!! Drat on that! I'm not so sure I want to load all that stuff up and go back into the danger zone. My day will be shot. But that's the thing about coupons. Even when you have a purse full, there is still a better deal lurking out there somewhere. So I ask--What's the deal with coupons? Do you use them, love them, hoard them? Or do you just go about your merry way? Let's discuss while Elnora brews a big pot of coffee!!!!

I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas

2011-12-08T02:00:00.000-08:00

Debra Clopton here in Texas wishing you all a wonderful, blessed Christmas season! I wanted to put a picture of my Christmas tree here for you to see but LOL I'm on deadline and haven't had a chance to think about getting my tree up yet. So I looked through my photos and came across this shot. It's was taken December of last year on my birthday when Chuck and I were crossing Pennsylvania during a blizzard! It was a very white Christmas season for me and looking at the picture reminded me of how fun it was. It reminds me of my favorite Christmas movie, White Christmas with Bing Crosby. I love that old movie. I can remember watching it as a young girl and just loving the scenes with the snow and wondering what that would be like to see snow like that. As a kid living in Texas where I'd never really seen snow that really stuck to the ground I truly had to dream of a white Christmas because where I lived and still do, you certainly never got one.

As you can tell, I've grown up since then and have seen snow as thick and white as that from my favorite movie. Though I've experienced the wonder of what I dreamed of back them I still love the movie and I the snow scenes. The movie still connects me to the dreams I had watching it as a little girl.

What is your favorite Christmas movie or book as a child and what did it make you dream of?

I pray you'll all have a joyous and blessed Christmas!

Debra Clopton

Bringing History To Life!

2011-12-07T00:01:00.000-08:00

Don’t you just love stumbling onto something wonderfully unexpected?

On a recent trip I had the pleasure of doing just that. We were taking an elevator up from a parking garage to a restaurant when the doors opened and we were in the middle of a marketplace. It was fabulous. But what made it even more special was spotting a mannequin dressed in traditional Scots clothing in a store window. This Celtic store had it all: clan mementos, quilts, books, porcelain and china, basically a ton of imports from Scotland. But the best of all was the jewelry. Excuse me while I fan myself.

In my debut novel Highland Hearts I wrote about an antique brooch called a Luckenbooth. The brooch was usually given to a woman upon her betrothal, much like we give engagement rings nowadays. It usually had the engaged couples wedding day engraved on it and the woman would wear it on special occasions for the rest of her life, such as her wedding day, while giving birth, etc. You can guess my delight when the saleswoman said she had one in stock. You can also guess I’ll be wearing it at my book signing. J How fun to be able to bring something from my book into real life.

Have you ever wanted to bring something from a book or from history into your life? Please share. I’d love to hear from you!

When the Holidays aren't Happy

2011-12-05T06:28:00.000-08:00

Pat Davids here,

I want to wish everyone a very Happy Holiday season, but I know that for some people the holidays aren't a happy time. This year, I lost my husband, and I'm facing my first Christmas without him. I'm trying to keep a happy face on for my family. I spent way to much money on decorations and they abound in my home, but the heart of the holiday is missing, and I know I'm not alone in this.

All around the world, people have lost children, spouses, parents and dear friends. As we face holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years, we are bombarded with images of happiness, families gathered together and searching out a present for that special someone in our lives. Many people, like me, will keep the television off to avoid the sappy, happy shows, but I can't go to the store or to work without being reminded that this is a joyous time of the year. Sometimes, I think I must be the only sad person on the planet. I know that's not true, but that's how it feels.

Last night, I was thinking about Mary, the mother of Jesus, and how she must have felt at the very first Christmas. Yes, she must have been overjoyed to have given birth to the Son of God, but how much trepidation must have tempered her joy. She knew, better than anyone, that her son would not lead a normal, happy life. Yet, because she accepted the burden God laid before her, I shall see my husband again when I go to stand before the Throne. I'm going to give that woman a big hug when I see her.

If you are suffering from a loss this holiday season, you have my deepest condolences. If you know someone who is facing a less than happy season, take a few minutes out of your day to give them a call. Don't ask, "How are you doing?" Most of us lie and say we're doing okay. Say, "I was thinking of you and how hard the holidays must be this year." Then, just listen. You will help more than you know by showing them you understand and you care.

His Holiday Family by Margaret Daley

2011-12-04T01:00:00.000-08:00

How exciting to have Gideon O'Brien, the hero from His Holiday Family, Margaret Daley, a December 2012 release from Love Inspired Romance.

1. Gideon O'Brien, tell me the most interesting thing about you.

Absolutely nothing--I'm just a guy who goes to work and enjoys some free time with his friends.

2. What do you do for fun?

I like to play basketball with friends and boating.

3. What do you put off doing because you dread it?

Housework--I'm a single guy who has to take care of his own house. Not my favorite thing.

4. What are you afraid of most in life?

Falling in love--I've avoided long term relationships most of my life.

5. What do you want out of life?

To help others--that's why I became a fire fighter.

6. What is the most important thing to you?

The Lord--He is the one I could count on when I could count on no one else.

7. Do you read books? If so, what is your favorite type of book?

Nah, not much. I work a lot.

8. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

That I wouldn't be afraid to get close to another.

9. Do you have a pet? If so, what is it and why that pet?

I have a dog. I love animals and he needed a home. I know what that is like.

10. If you could travel back in time, where would you go and why?

To before my father and mother died to stop it from happening.

FEATURED BOOK: HIS HOLIDAY FAMILY BY MARGARET DALEY

2011-12-03T04:55:00.000-08:00

When Hurricane Naomi tears through a small Mississippi town, a daring rescue unites two heroes. Nurse Kathleen Hart is a single mom racked by guilt over her husband's death. Firefighter Gideon O'Brien—orphaned as a young boy—has lost too many people he cared for. To rise above the storm's devastation, Gideon helps Kathleen and her sons rebuild their home. As Christmas approaches, they discover that even the strongest of storms can't destroy a romance built on the foundation of faith.

Ask Elnora--About Christmas Memories--Lenora Worth

2011-12-02T03:00:00.000-08:00

Thanks for the memories ....Happy December, my lovelies! Only December 2nd and already my charge card is tired. I've bought lots of presents, mostly for me, of course! Just teasing. I've put a big dent in my shopping list and only bought myself a bracelet, some earrings, some jeans and a sweater. That's a whole outfit! No shoes yet. Oh, wait. Yes, I did buy shoes when I drove across the state line to visit two of my best writing buddies. Oops. I forget Big Daddy reads my blog. Busted. Oh, well, a girl can't help but buy a few baubles during the Christmas season. Everything is so pretty and bright in all the shops and malls. But I digress. I really wanted to talk about something less materialistic. Yes, I can be practical at times. After reading Merrilee's blog from yesterday, I got to wondering about Christmas memories. I have a favorite one and I'd like to hear some of yours, too.My favorite Christmas memory happened when I was a little girl back on the farm in Georgia. I had longed for a new bicycle, but we didn't have a lot of money so my older sister bought me a used red bicycle. I loved that bike, but it got old and worn out (probably because I rode it up and down the county line road, spinning stories in my head as fast as I pushed those pedals.) Anyway, it broke. I was so devastated. So I really wanted a new bike for Christmas. Then I caught a nasty cold and felt awful, but Christmas was coming so I soldiered on and prayed I'd get a new bike. My sister (the same one who'd bought me the used bike) came and picked me up on Christmas Eve. She said she has some last minute shopping to do and I could ride along. So, sniffing and miserable, but ever hopeful, I went into town with her. When we got back, I got out of the car thinking I was going to bed. I was sick and tired and fretful that I wouldn't get a new bike. Then I looked up and my daddy was standing on the back porch with a shiny new blue bicycle by his side. I looked at my smiling sister and then I looked at my mama, and then finally I looked at my daddy and then I burst into tears. My daddy, shocked, said, "Santa Claus brought this bike early--just for you. Don't you like it?""Like it?" I loved it. I bobbed my head and rushed up the steps and quickly took possession of that bright new bike. I forgot about being sick. I forgot about being miserable. I rode off into the cold sunset with a warm heart and the perfect contentment of a happy child. I rode and rode until my hands were numb, until my mama called me in to supper. And I got up the next day and rode some more, still spinning my stories. I think I rode that bike until I got my first car. That was the best Christmas ever! Because that beautiful blue bike was the same color as my daddy's sweet eyes. Let's discuss special Christmas memories!!!

Christmas favorites

2011-12-01T04:57:00.000-08:00

Today is December 1, and this is Merrillee who is starting the countdown to Christmas. One of the best things about being a writer is connecting with our readers. So I'm going to ask you to share with us some Christmas favorites.

What is your favorite Christmas book?
What is your favorite Christmas movie?
What is your favorite Christmas song?
What is your favorite Christmas cookie?
What is your favorite Christmas candy?
What is your favorite Christmas decoration?

And I have two final questions. Do you like to get books for Christmas? If you don't have an e-reader, would you like to get one for Christmas?

Merry Christmas to all of our wonderful readers.

Black Friday bonanza

2011-11-28T03:00:00.000-08:00

Kim Watters here. I finally did it. I bought a Kindle. I wasn't planning on it when I went shopping on Black Friday. I mean, who would have thought Target would still have any in stock at 10:00 in the morning. I may be crazy enough to go shopping on that day, but I draw the line at waking up way too early, or not going to sleep at all. Trust me people, at my age, I need my beauty sleep.

Anyway, kids in tow, yes, I brought them along, too. (didn't matter because I'd already finished my Christmas shopping-shall I mention my cards and Chirstmas letter are done along with the Christmas portraits? Oh and we put up the tree and decorations yesterday.What can I say, I'm an organized Virgo!) And I just can't resist a sale.

The kids actually found the Kindle first. "Come on, Mom. Just think of how much we'll read now."

"Really?" Hooked, bait, line and sinker.

"Of course." As my youngest is playing a game on the Fire.

"Well...."

"Paleeze." They both whine.

Well, they were majorly on sale (a regular Kindle not the Fire) and still there so maybe it was time to get one since they still had five in stock and my kids are the computer literate generation and can probably teach me how to operate it. "Fine."

So, that's how it happened along with the GPS system, (so Mom doesn't get lost anymore) and the portable DVD player ( to keep my kids from killing each other on those long drive). My kids are determined to ring me into their computer world.

Next year though, I'm going out alone!

So who else ventured out on Friday and waht did you get?