I'm one of those mamas that has turned to my local pharmacies and discount stores for less expensive versions of name brand products.

I especially do this in the medicinal arena. So, rather than tell my child to go get name brand "X", I'll say go get the anti-itch cream.

The other day one of my children was complaining of multi-site itching.

She was scratching uncontrollably, so I directed her to where I keep the tubes of assorted medicinal creams, naming it "anti-itch" cream. I was pretty sure I had some generic cortisone cream in the cubby in the bathroom.

She found it, applied it liberally, and then put it on the table next to me. I looked down, saw anti-itch cream in large black letters . . . then I read the small print in the upper right hand corner of the tube:

Labels: funnies

Somehow the beginning of a school year ushers in new beginnings to all walks of life. In our little Peachy Keen Homeschool Academy school doesn't ever really end, so school is not "officially" beginning this week.

Yet, my DP is on his way out the door even as I type. Teachers report today. Students report to the new beginning Friday. There is a freshness, an anticipation that hangs in the very air around us.

Advertisements all around us proclaim the "BIGGEST Back -to-School" sales of the season!! New binders, folders, pencils, pens, and glue sticks are being purchased by the gross. Whether excitement or dread be the order of the day . . . a new beginning is upon us. We can't deny it any more than we can avoid January 1st on each year's calendar.

The new beginning around here is multi-fold. See, as well as embarking on a new school year, we are also in the midst of a time of changes for our church. We had an inspiring message from our interim pastor yesterday that left me with hope for my future as well as for the future of this church body. (I'm not just sayin' that because he now reads this little blog o' mine)

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

Jeremiah 29:11

Again, in my time with my Lord this morning, I was reminded He has plans for me. He made me specifically for a relationship with Him. Stasi and John Eldredge put it this way in Captivating:

"Our God is a tenderhearted God who yearns for relationship with us. If you have any doubt about that, simply look at the message He sent us in Woman.

Amazing. Not only does God long for us, but He longs to be loved by us . . . He wants us to love Him. To seek Him with all our hearts."

So, today, as much as I am capable, I plan to seek Him with all my heart. I purpose to adore Him, to desire a relationship with Him and with those He's put in my path.

Today, that begins with my children, and they are calling . . . even as I type. I'm off!

Have a great day seeking relationship with Him! He longs to be loved by you, too!!

Labels: beginnings, blessings, God's Word, relationship

Labels: God's Word, ocean, photos, power, truth

This has been a fabulous week of visiting blogs, bookmarking, and entering for all sorts of giveaways. I have had a blast, and I hope all of you have, too.

Here are my winners:

For the "Too Terrific Tags" Stampin' Up! Stamp set, the winner is:

Labels: blogging, celebrations, contest, friends, giveaways

***Doggy Days of Summer Participants***: Scroll down for the first two winners. All other winners will be announced by 9pm today Eastern time.

“You block your dream when you allow your fear to grow bigger than your faith.”

Mary Manin Morrissey

“Love is what we were born with. Fear is what we learned here.” Anonymous

" And you and your children and grandchildren must fear the Lord your God as long as you live. If you obey all his decrees and commands, you will enjoy a long life." Deuteronomy 6:2 (NLT)

I pray for myself today for all of you who read that we would be more likely to follow the truth of God's Word than "what we learn here."

Walk forth without fear today, for as Jesus told His disciples:

"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." John 16:33 (NIV)

Labels: brave, faith, fearless friday

This week sure has been a whirlwind of activity around here.

So, I thought it appropriate to slow down and take time to re-direct my focus this morning. I need to remind myself of my priorities as I halt my frenetic pace of entering giveaways to be grateful for what I've been given.

This week I am thankful for:

1. My DP (Darling Prince): Though I have been acting like I am tired of having him home this summer (he's a teacher), I am really going to be sad to see him go back to work on Monday. He has pampered me, talked with me, and made me laugh more than I ever do when he's not here. He has also had the time to do fun "Daddy" dates with all of our children.

2. New Contacts/Potential Friends: This carnival that became Shannon's enormous brain child this week has "enlarged my bloggy borders" and helped me to see that I had barely scratched the surface of who could be a blogging friend. I look forward to coming back and visiting many of you after the carnival is over.

3. Peanut Butter and Jelly: I have made hundreds of these simple sandwiches over the past decade or so. Yet, I have rarely taken the opportunity to share in them. This week has been a re-discovery of a simple pleasure -- especially with homemade strawberry jam. Yum!

4. Crafting: I set myself up, but needing to have cards to give away has been a wonderful motivator for getting those creative juices flowing. I am having a blast making those cards.

5. Snuggles: I've chosen not to walk in the mornings this week, and I have been rewarded by lots of snuggles from the ones who usually sleep while I walk. Being the mama is grand!

6. Cooking: I know this seems silly, but I've not been doing much of it this summer. So last night's meal was a real treat. It wasn't anything special, but it turned out to be the best "homemade" pasta sauce we've had in months.

7. Healing: For those who have been praying, Sweetcheeks is on the homestretch of her injury. She is still wearing a brace for a couple weeks, but she's been released from physical therapy and has full motion in her wrist.

8. Playing: I'm not real good at remembering to play, but I look forward to going to the park with our kids today. Mamas need to play, too!

9. Storms: I love to hear the thunder crashing outside when I am all cozy and snug in my bed inside. I woke up this morning to the rumbling of thunder.

10. Sleeping in: Keeping our kids up late yields its own rewards. Everyone in our house slept in until 9 am today. How much more blessed can a girl get!

Now it's your turn! Comment on God's goodness here or take the Thanks tank button to your site and make your own list. Either way, I would love to be in on the way God is filling your tank!

Ok, business at hand! Ladies, we have a winner, and I couldn't keep the news a secret until tomorrow. The winner of the first set of 12 All Occasion cards is:

Labels: gratitude, inspiration, thanks tank

Ok, by now, y'all probably are completely bug-eyed at all the giveaways around this place . . . not to mention the HUNDREDS of free things spilling from here.

Yet, I, being the crazy and generous sort that I am . . . I have another offer for you.

Most of these giveaways we've all been speedily visiting and frantically entering with our names and pertinent information are items we can currently use and will receive very soon after the giveaway is over.

What I am offering you is a set of 24 handmade Christmas cards . . . again an assortment, because I detest making the same card over and over again. It just stunts my creativity and puts me in a box . . . creates one more need for therapy, and who has the money for that! I am giving this stuff away, remember!?!

I have no photo right now of any Christmas card, but I may post one before the end of the week : ) I know you may not be able to tell with this dark photo, but the card stock in this particular example is hunter green with an ivory fleck on the inside. There is also verse on the inside, but I couldn't get that photo to cooperate this morning.


Anyway, back to the giveaway. I will choose a winner from anyone who comments by 5 pm, Friday, July 27.

However, the clincher is . . . you will not receive the cards from me any time before September 1. If you're like me, you won't be filling out Christmas cards before Thanksgiving anyway, so this shouldn't put you in a bind to wait until Sept. to get these.

Now, to make this a little more fun than just putting . . . "Enter me, please!" . . . I would like for you to tell me your favorite Christmas song (religious or secular) and tell me why it is your favorite.

I'll get things started. I love, love, love Christmas music and listen to it every month of the year except January.

My all-time favorite is Silent Night. When I became a mommy the first time, I had such a small repertoire of songs to sing for my new baby that I resorted to singing Silent Night every night for the first year. It just continued with all of my babies until it became the most requested at our house, no matter what time of year.

My new fave is this song by Third Day. It touches my heart and reminds me of a desire God laid on my heart five years ago.

So, now it's your turn. Tell me your favorite Christmas Song and why it's your favorite!

Labels: blogging, carnival, Christmas, contest, giveaways, summer fun

So, by now, many of y'all have been tooling around the land 'o blog like leprechauns in search of a pot of gold.

I figured, after all the excitement generated today, I would just sweeten the pot, so to speak. As many of you know from this post, I recently got to meet some fantastic authors of some wonderful books. I received one in particular that might be of interest to any of you who love this author as much as I do.

I currently hold two signed copies of Karen Kingsbury's newest release, Sunrise.

I will be happy to give away one of them, considering I am still holding the other for my dearest friend.

Like with all the other giveaways this week, please enter your comments by . . . oh, let's say 5 pm Friday. I'll announce this winner with the others by Midnight Friday, the 27th.

Same rules apply as all the others. Please leave an email or a valid registered blogger id. This contest is open to all commenters, regardless of your nation of habitation currently.

Now, go on leprechauns . . . keep searching for that pot of gold. Have a great time. I know I will!

Update -- Oh, and here's another cool contest over at 5 Minutes for Mom. We love Horizons Milk and Dairy Products around here, and this is a fabulous giveaway . . . simply fabulous I tell you!

Labels: blogging, carnival, contest, giveaways, summer fun

Winner #1 is dallimomma
Winner #2 is Mandy
Still two more giveaways up for grabs here. I'll be closing comments at 5 pm Eastern Friday. Congratulations, Ladies!!!


I didn't even think I'd take part in this giveaway thingy, because I guess I just figured I wouldn't have anything to give away that anyone would want.

Yet, the Holy Spirit has hounded me all week long . . . which I thought was quite appropriate considering it is "The Dog Days of Summer" giveaway carnival.

So, welcome to Without Fear where I am fearlessly joining Shannon from Rocks in My Dryer and a host of others to give away something fun and exciting . . .

I love to make cards. I've been stamping for years. I love to share my craftiness with others.

Yet, I rarely make two cards exactly the same. I'm just a rebel that way : )



So, my giveaway is two sets of 12 assorted all-occasion hand made cards. Here is another example of one you may receive:
I will randomly choose two winners -- the first winner will come from those who comment before midnight on Wednesday and the second winner will come from those who comment before midnight Thursday. I will announce those winners Friday morning at 9 am Eastern time!

Then I will choose two other winners from the entire week of commenters who respond by 5pm Eastern Friday. Those grand prize winners will be announced before 9pm Friday from all commenters throughout the week, and those two lucky people will win one of the two stamp sets pictured below:

So, you'll actually have four chances to win here at Without Fear this week! After each drawing, you will be re-entered if you didn't win in the first round. You will also have a chance to win, even if you don't make it here until Wednesday, Thursday or Friday. So join in, and we'll have a great week of giveaways!!

Thanks so much for joining me in the bloggy carnival. I'll be out and about commenting my share this week, too, so maybe we'll bump into each other along the way! Grab a cookie while you're here and browse some of my older posts.

If this is your first time at Without Fear, WELCOME!! I'm glad you're here. If you're an old friend, I'm glad you're back again. This is a haven for me, and I hope it will be the same for you.

You must provide a valid e-mail address, but you do not have to have a blog. All duplicate comments will be deleted. Oh! Before I forget, I am opening this giveaway to all commenters, so feel free to join in you international friends : )

***UPDATE: Ladies, please leave a way to contact you if you win. If you leave no email or site at which to contact you -- I cannot find you to give you a prize!!

Labels: blogging, carnival, giveaways, summer fun

Labels: God's Word, inspiration, truth

***UPDATE-- I received this wonderful CD in the mail yesterday, talk about a quick pony -- and it is wonderful. I am listening to it right now, and it is definitely a "happy" in my day!

I love gifts.
I love music.
I love the gift of music.

Even better than the gift of music is the gift of FREE music! BooMama posted this link to receive a free CD from Monk & Neagle.

Their latest CD "The Twenty-First Time" is set to hit stores September 18th.
I've been listening to some of the songs from the album and have been really thrilled with what I've heard. I'm looking forward to receiving the CD in the mail in the next few weeks. A big thank you to Provident Music for sharing great Christian music with those of us in Bloggityville!

Go check out these guys! They are definitely worth a listen.

Labels: free, music, summer fun

I don't know about you, but I get really comfortable with sameness.

I go to the same stores to shop.

I travel the same roads just about every time I have somewhere to go in my town.

I rarely step out of the norm or my comfort zone to do anything wild and fearless.

Yet, my heart longs for it. I am wired for adventure.

I think that is why God throws me a curve ball or two, here and there. He wants to remind me regularly that I am "On His Adventure" ~ not just as some cutesy signature, but for real, for life.

I've been re-reading Captivating over the past couple of days, and what the Eldredge's so eloquently communicate is this:

Every woman in her heart longs for three things: to be romanced, *to play an irreplaceable role in a great adventure, and to unveil beauty. That's what makes a woman come alive.
*emphasis mine.

I am one of those women. You (with the exception of the two guys that read this blog) are one of those women, too.

So, how do we become more like that in our everyday lives? How do we "play that irreplaceable role?"

The detailed answers to those questions are for another post indeed, but I think the following verse gives us a place to start:

"For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God . . . For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline." 2 Timothy 1: 6,7 (NIV)

God did not give the gifts mentioned above only to some believers. He gave them to all of us. The version of His Word that I usually read replaces "self-discipline" with a "sound mind", but I like this version better for this particular illustration.

If we discipline ourselves to "stepping out" fearlessly, regardless of the size of the task or its seeming magnitude in our lives -- how much more will we be relying on God's spirit of power, and of love. We can make a difference in our days and our ability to access that adventure we so long to be a part of, if we follow the Word of our Heavenly Father -- who sets an adventure before us each and every day.

The question is: "Am I ready to join Him in the adventure?"

Are you?

Labels: adventure, brave, fearless friday, stepping out

This tank is always filled with blessings. I am just going to list them a little differently this week, following the lead of Heather, who inspires me daily as she valiantly fights the battle set before her.

I am thankful this week that:

• I am alive.
• I live in a home that is warm in winter, cool in summer, and keeps out the wind and rains (except for that six foot wet spot in my garage).
  
• I have my DP who dearly loves me, tells me so often, and carries the load even when I decide to check out.
• I have three wonderful, healthy, and wise children (sometimes wisecrackers, but always wise).
  
• I am both gifted as a singer and a writer, both of which God has me using currently. (though you can't hear me sing, you can read what I write . . . hee, hee.) You'll have to trust me on the singing part.
  
• I have several dear friends who know my heart and stick with me even on the not so thankful days. (Thanks, Kate)
• I have an incredible church that preaches God's truth, reaches out to the lost, and encourages the believers so that they may continue the ministry.
  
• I know my Savior loves me, even in my darkest times.
• I have come to realize though I thought I knew Him way back when, I will spend each day longing to know Him more.
  
• I have the freedom to homeschool my children.
• I have fibromyalgia, but it doesn't have me. No, it doesn't have me. It is not cancer, and it will not kill me. It cannot steal my joy forever.
• I can have a cup of chai just about any time, and it will most certainly warm me from within.
  
• I can paint my toenails red. I know this is tiny, but I get a "happy" when my nails are bright and pretty.
  
• I get to greet another morning in the quiet of my home, meeting with the God of the Universe. What better way to begin my day.
• I have been blessed with a free pet that has consumed my three sweeties' attention for hours. Her name is Trixie, and she is a box turtle we "rescued" yesterday from the street that enters our subdivision.
  
• I know that my Savior never gives up on me, even when I think I cannot move forward one more step -- 2 Corinthians 12:9,10.
• I have understanding friends who roll with the unforeseen changes that come about in my life.
• I have this place to unleash my creativity, express my gratitude, walk fearlessly, entertain friends, and strengthen my perspective of myself.
  

Thank you for hanging in there with me. I am grateful for each of you who come back for more each week.

Now it's your turn! What makes you take notice of God's hand this week? Take it to your site with the little header. Direct me to your Thankful Thursday if you do that instead, or just leave me a comment. Share your joy and it will double. I'd love to hear how God is working in your life and your heart this week. Have a great day!

Labels: blessings, blogging, gratitude, thanks tank

I haven't participated in WFMW in such a long time I had to scrape the dust off the WFMW header in my photo file.

My tip for today is a quick and easy one. I like to keep a "gift box" in my closet and try to add to it throughout the year. This box is designated as the place to find future gifts, gifts for unexpected kindnesses bestowed, or that inevitable birthday party invitation that could catch the mama off guard if the "gift box" did not exist.

Some great places to add to your "gift box":
TJ Maxx (great toy and book clearances)
Bath and Body Works (just "cleaned" up last month on a killer sale.)
Dollar Tree, or the Target Dollar Spot (especially when they are doing seasonal clearance and the $ stuff goes to 50 cents or a quarter) ***Update -- just heard Target is doing away with their Dollar Spot (boo, hiss) : )
Any toy store clearance table

So, I would encourage y'all to keep a "gift box" hidden in your closet, too. I say hidden because my kids never know when something from the "gift box" may show up as a special treat for one of them!

Have a super-de-duper day and check out more tips with Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer.

In the past couple of weeks I have seen this cute button all over the blogworld. Last week I received it from my friend, Niki, who was so kind to bestow it upon me. I was honored by her thinking of me and remembering me for such a sweet recognition. I love anything pink, and this award sure fits the requirements.

Then, lo and behold, I was strolling around bloggityville last night and come to find out our dear Morning Glory had honored me once again with this "rockin'" award! Her words about me were so thoughtful and precious, they almost made me blush as pink as this here button.

Anyway, the rules of the award indicate I have a responsibility to pass it on to others, but just about everyone I would have awarded has already received it herself. So, I pass it on to my friend, Kelly, at Come What May. She is a rockin' mama and is becoming quite the blogger, too. So, I honor her today. Go visit her blog and pray for her precious Jonathan and the rest of her family.

Rock on, Internets!

1" Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me, for in you my soul takes refuge. I will take refuge in the shadow of your wings until the disaster has passed.

2 I cry out to God Most High,
to God, who fulfills {his purpose} for me.

3 He sends from heaven and saves me,
rebuking those who hotly pursue me;
Selah
God sends his love and his faithfulness."

Psalm 57:1-3

Labels: God's Word, inspiration

Sometimes it takes an extra measure of fearlessness to be different in the midst of a field of sameness.

I am the dandelion in the midst of all these daisies.

I am fearless and a bit impulsive.

I am the strong and tough "weed" that keeps coming back after being pulled and re-moved over and over again.

I am hearty.

I am resilient.

My roots grow deep, when I find where I want to be.

Yet, my fluff can be blown carelessly by the wind when I am all used up.

I have learned that many are put off by the presence of a dandelion, but many are also drawn to its brightness.

Children pluck me and carry me around in sweaty, grimy fists. They present me like a trophy to their waiting mamas.

Mamas can't refuse me, for I am the symbol of all that is pure and innocent and summery.

I am fearless. I am wild. I am sunshiny bright and ever-present.

I am who He made me to be.

"But now, this is what the LORD says— he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine." Isaiah 43:1

Labels: brave, fearless friday, unafraid

I'll get to the regular "filling up" in a few minutes, but I need to finish off my ICRS visit first. Part one is here.

Just to let you know what a fun day it turned out to be, I also had the privilege of meeting and talking with this lovely, new artist, who was genuine and as down-to-earth as the girl next door. She and I chatted for a moment while I told her how much her testimony and perspective on true beauty meant to me as I try to teach my own girls the value of what is inside being more important:We will continue to pray for Mandisa as she begins her journey as a frontline music artist in such a public arena. She was the one who caused quite the "stir" in our house. My girls have played her "mini" CD over and over again, continually gazing at the autograph that certifies her "famous" hand actually touched the case!

Rather than bore you with all the details of the others I either saw or met, I'll just hit the highlights and link to those who have sites. You can check them out for yourselves:

• Beverly Lewis -- Great woman. Love her books. Definitely in my top 10 authors list
• Francine Rivers -- Did not talk with her, but she is also one of my favorites. Especially this book. A must-read.
• Terri Blackstock -- Not an avid reader of her work yet, but after the book she gave me -- I could be persuaded.
  
• Dennis Rainey -- Again, did not have a chance to talk, but his ministry and his books are dear to my heart. God has used him mightily in my life and my marriage.
• Casting Crowns -- The ministry this group shares with so many has personally touched my life in a myriad of ways. I was especially moved by one member of the band recently as his life impacted my Libbyline's in a significant fashion. I am reminded by the actions of these fellow believers that we are all ministers . . . some are just more visible than others.
• Crawford Loritts -- I was able to minister alongside this godly man years ago in a land far away. He was as genuine, sincere, and winsome when I saw him Monday as he'd been almost 15 years ago when we briefly worked together. Another blessing.
• Jump 5 -- Cute kids that "WOW" my girls, but I just felt old and frumpy next to their fresh faces and sleek figures. Bringing home a signed photograph for each daughter tho' earned me a lusty scream and choruses of thank you's! The Hawk Nelson foam finger and the autograph from Anthony Evans . . . not so much.
  
• Last but certainly not least by any means!!
  
• Sandy -- I interrupted her and her dashing husband for a moment as they were headed to another meeting, and for that I am quite sorry. I wish we'd had time for tea and a muffin. She is sweet and quite southern-looking, which is especially interesting considering she's coming from the Northwest. I read her blog regularly and would encourage y'all to do the same. She is a wise and practical kindred spirit that I hope will have lots more to tell us all in the near future.

I've belabored my foray into the publishing and bookselling arena long enough. Time for filling up that tank. I am thankful for:

1. Friends: Especially ones who don't tire too easily of gushing. My dearest friend probably had to hold the phone at arm's length Monday as I cackled and cawed about all the people I met and saw.

2. Awards: A bloggy friend bestowed this award on me, and though I've not tagged anybody -- I am grateful to have received it.

3. Stampin' Up! Catalog: My dearest friend in the whole world is a demonstrator of this great product, and I am always thrilled to receive mine. Maybe you'd like one, too? I can getcha' one, if the price is right!

4. Books: How I love new books! I love old ones, too, but the feel and smell of a new one . . . that can't be duplicated. I received a stack of new ones at the show Monday. Maybe I'll have to take a picture of all the reading I'll be doing in the coming weeks and months.

5. Books in the Mail: I have a friend on the other side of the country who cares enough about my health and well-being to send me a book that will help me take better care of myself. What a sweetheart!

6. Magnifying Mirrors: I like mine for a variety of reasons, but I just thought about this the other day while applying my make-up. When I am up against 5x magnification, how common is that in my real life? Looking in that mirror reminds me that no one sees me like that with the exception of Jesus. He's the only One who can see me up close and personal, flaws and all. He alone can turn the mirror back and let me see what He sees.

7. Cast off: Sweetcheeks was thrilled beyond belief at getting her cast removed today. She still has to wear a splint, but she can take it off for showering and washing her hands. Tonight as we were sending everyone to bed she erupted into gales of giggles and squeals. She kept saying over and over, "This has been the most wonderful day of my entire life!"

8. Soccer Camp: Yes, my JD is gone all week from 9am-3pm. Need I say more?

9. Rest: The early part of my week was strenuous for little, old me. So, I've been thankful for extra rest gleaned here and there.

10. My Precious DP: He missed out on several great book signings in order to make sure I got to meet my favorites. I adore this man. Sure wish he could have gotten Tony Dungy's new book though. Oh well, maybe that'll be a gift idea.

As always, please join me by sharing how God has filled up your tank this week. I'd love to hear about your blessings in the comments or at your own site. Take the header and start filling up that tank yourself. You'll be amazed at how much you overlook unless you're intentional. Have a blessed day!

Labels: books, celebrities, joy, thanks tank

Rarely do I ever have a chance to just gush over the events in my daily life. Most days I have little of extraordinary consequence take place. Not that I don't have anything ever happen to me, just little of earth-shattering proportions.

Monday was an exception. Monday I had the privilege to leave my routine and dream a little bit (Who am I kidding here, I dreamed a lot!). This day I was surrounded by people who do daily what I only dream of one day doing.

A dear friend of mine provided an opportunity for me and DP to attend the International Christian Retail Show (ICRS) in Atlanta. According to its site description:

The International Christian Retail Show, the largest event designed for
Christian store owners and operators, has one goal: to enable you to
succeed. With its inspirational speakers, informed presenters, leading
suppliers, artists and musicians, and thousands of fellow Christian retailers,
the International Christian Retail Show is a source of nearly unlimited
value you simply cannot find anywhere else in the world.

I came away from my day at ICRS having brushed up against that mission statement. The value to me personally was immeasurable.

Let me explain:

I have a list of favorite authors. I read voraciously. I am an aspiring writer as well. So, imagine my delight in finding that three of my absolute favorites are present at the show . . . all signing books Monday while I was there!

Let me backtrack just a bit. DP and I left our three, precious blessings (who did NOT need to be on the floor at this show) with a babysitter and headed for Atlanta. We arrived at the World Congress Center, parked, got our appropriate identification badges and headed to the main floor to scope out the "people of note", ie. those authors I absolutely adore reading. In my humble opinion, these women are some of the very best at what they do.

So, amidst the crowds and elbowing for space, we quickly located and stalked/arrived at the booth of my first favorite just as she was finishing up -- Liz Curtis Higgs. Liz greeted me warmly like we had just seen one another the day before, signed a copy of her most recent release, Slightly Bad Girls of the Bible, and shared that her next book will be out in the spring -- another set in Scotland, of course. I can't wait! She is funny, sweet and just like I thought she'd be. What a God thing! I even had a chance to be photographed for another blog while I was there. Now to find the business card with their blog address . . .

Then we quickly sped over to another book signing just as it was beginning to wrap up. I'm standing in line and one of the assistants hands me the last book this author has available. It is a devotional for women by Robin Jones Gunn and one of her dearest "sisterchick" friends, Cindy Hannan.

Robin has written several books in the Sisterchicks series, and I have thoroughly enjoyed each and every one of them. Though at this time I was more interested in the two series she's written for young girls, Christy Miller and Sierra Jensen. Robin was all too gracious and shared her insights as to the books in those two series being appropriate for an 11 year old, as well as giving me some sage advice in regards to my own writing. I just soaked in all she had to say.

I was pleasantly surprised at Robin's genuine interest and willingness to take time to chat with the likes of me. A true blessing.

So, after more wandering, more gathering of goodies (where was my rolling carry-on when I needed it most?), and scanning nametag badges for someone I recognized, we met up with my friend and a former colleague of his for a meeting regarding a business venture we are pursuing together. After some positive feedback and encouraging conversation, all while surreptitiously scanning my watch over and over, we finally came to a pleasant and timely close to our meeting.

I had somewhere I had to be. Someone to meet to complete my day of female fiction author fawning. I would not be impeded. Nothing was getting in my way of shaking this woman's hand!

Who could that be? I've only mentioned her numerous times throughout the summer as I have immersed myself in more of her books than any other author I've read in a very long time. I have read so much of her work in such a short time that I have been known to dream about the characters in the book as if they were real people from my own life's experiences. Here is the pinnacle of my day, my one shining moment with my favorite author of Christian fiction, Karen Kingsbury:

Not that we really got a chance to do more than exchange pleasantries, but it sure was a blast to be able to let her know how much her work has ministered to my heart and to the hearts of others I know who also read her novels.

Now, my day would have been complete without anything else added to it. I was thrilled to have met the three favorites. I was especially thrilled to not have made a bumbling idiot of myself with any of them.

Three favorites, three successful meetings without any toes being mashed or finding out I had something in my teeth AFTER I had already shaken their hands. I wasn't even going to post myself in the photos with them, but it really does make more of a statement if you see my silly face with each of these precious women.

So, I know this has dragged on long enough for one post. However, I will share the rest of my brushes with greatness tomorrow. Suffice it to say . . . my children were thrilled with my interactions with "famous" people.

So much so, that Sweetcheeks said today, "She touched this! You mean her famous hand was on this very thing!" I'll let you know next time whose hand caused such a "stir." at my house today.

I am off to dreamland now, exhausted but happy!

God is Good all the time!

Labels: celebrities, joy, writing

"You are my lamp, O LORD;
the LORD turns my darkness into light."

2 Samuel 22:29

In my mind, I've always associated feats like the one at left with fearlessness. I've even made a list at different times in my life with all kinds of wild and "fearless" acts I'd like to perform: skydiving, deep sea diving, hang gliding, etc.

You know, the kinds of things you want to do before you die.

Well, as I get older (and boy, am I feeling it today, chalk it up to Tony Horton and the Ab Ripper 100), I have begun to think of fearlessness in a whole different realm.

Ways I find myself more fearless now than in years past:

1. I trust God with the lives of my children.
2. I believe God is Who He says He is.
3. I worry far less about how others perceive me.
4. I let go and let God far more frequently.
5. I no longer feel like I need to do heroic acts in order to appear fearless.

“Courage is resistance to fear, mastery of fear - not absence of fear.”

Mark Twain

Labels: fearless friday

A little slow on the filling of the tank this morning, but I have gone walking, eaten a delicious two-cheese omelet, done two loads of laundry, had a quiet time, and completed Tony Horton's Ab Crunch 100. So I guess I'm ok.

Lots of thanks to share, so let's get to it:

1. New Life: I'm always thrilled to hear of God's working, and Barb shared yesterday about her new grandbaby coming in March. I don't know much that supercedes the joy of celebrating a coming new life. Congratulations Barb!

2. Photo Safe Albums: I have been scrapbooking for about seven or eight years, but with a busy family I have found the task of putting photos in scrapbooks less and less possible. The photos kept piling up and I got more and more discouraged -- figuring my scrapbooking might really take off when my three all go off to college. So, I bought some of these and put almost two year's worth of photos in them in one day. I feel a burden lifted!

3. Funnies: I went looking for something else entirely and stumbled upon several people who make me laugh: Anita Renfroe, Chonda Pierce, Ken Davis, and Mark Lowry. If you're feeling down, check these out! Just bring your kleenex and cross your legs, 'cause, Honey, they are that funny!!

4. Free Days: Considering I had a migraine yesterday, I was thrilled to have a free day with no obligations. We rested. We went and saw fireworks. That was enough for me.

5. Cool Breezes: This morning's walk was accompanied by the coolest breeze fluffing my newly shorn hair do. I walk better when my hair is fluffing, don't you?

6. New Hair Do: I think I mentioned that I found a new guy to do my hair. Well, I love this man -- not in a way that frightens my DP. For when this man makes me feel good about how I look, my DP says it's all good, it's all real good.

7. The Right Socks: You know, I never thought what I wore on my feet mattered when going for a walk, but it really does. So, I went to my local Sam's and stocked up on a bunch of low cut cushiony socks that keep me from having unsightly blisters when later I want to slip into some slinky sandals (not that I have any of those, but it sounded good).

8. Fruit Salad: No, not the song these guys sing (now the song is going through your head, too), but a delicious concoction of all that is fresh and easily accessible this time of year. I combined strawberries, bananas, apples, grapes, blueberries, and mandarin oranges and covered it all with Sprite to keep those apples and bananas from turning brown. Delicious.

***You know, I've had nothing but interruptions in trying to get this posted today. So, I am cutting my list short this week so I can go tame the natives at my house. The kicks to the unmentionable areas and repeated slaps of siblings needs the Mama's attention. Just not sure at this point if they are ready for the attention coming to them.

Anyway, I am always thrilled to hear how God is working in your life. Please don't hesitate to share your own blessings of the week in the comments or take the header and the idea to your own site and let me know. I'll come visit.

Have a great day and pray for my children!

TO THE FOUNDING FATHERS


Your light still lingers in our distant morning,
A star that we perceive across the void.
We chart our passage by your words, still burning
Long after your bright core has been destroyed.
No longer do we speak of "natural" rights,
Nor can we think that Reason guides our will.
We've been through far too many gruesome nights
To hope we have reduced our lust to kill.
Yet hope remains the engine of our fire,
Hope that someday all of us will be
Happy in the least that we require:
Well-fed, well-housed, safe, secure, and free.
This dream we still pursue. Though darkness come,
Your wisdom, hope, and courage through us run.

Happy Independence Day!!

I was listening to "MomSense" recently, which is the radio nugget from MOPS International (Mothers of Preschoolers). Elisa Morgan was talking about how a little 3-year-old girl was emulating the actions of her mother. She mentioned how "powerful" we are as mothers. We have the power to shape the way our children do things. We have power to influence them for good or for evil. What they see us do in public and in private will make an indelible mark on their little lives. The way they are treated will ultimately be the way they treat others.

That got me to thinking . . . How does what I do influence the three blessings God has brought into my life?

My quiet times have been sporadic and irregular at best through many of these past eleven years of motherhood. I have had seasons of true communion and intimacy with Jesus, and I have had times of true wilderness and dusty, dry moments. I have felt God as close as my skin, and I have felt like an orphan out in the cold that He's completely forgotten.

Yet, what never ceases to amaze me is that when my children see me spending time with Jesus -- it always encourages them to do the same. If my girls see me in the Word, they run to their rooms and get their own Bibles and devotionals so that they may "meet with Jesus" too. They know if it is important to me, then they want to do it as well. My son is also starting to get into the act with his own "learn to read" Bible -- how that warms this mama's heart.

Now, I can let these moments go by, or I can use them to teach my children how valuable it is to devote time each day to build my relationship with the Creator of the universe. We are working through a devotional during school each day that is taking us through the days of creation. The kids have all been amazed at what God was able to accomplish in one day. What we accomplish comes far short of God's creation, yet we are entrusted with each day for its given purpose. Beginning the day with God's purposes on my heart certainly increases my chances of accomplishing them.

My prayer for my family, as well as for yours is to set out to accomplish only what God would have for us on this day. He has plans for each of our days, and He already knows what we will do. May we be about His business today!

This post was originally published in Oct. 2005 and tweaked for viewing today.

***This post is one of my first from August 2005. We've been having a few "thunder boomers" around here lately, but nothing like what I experienced on the coast. I love the power God exerts over His creation via the storms He allows us to witness.

We had the coolest thing happen the other night. We live in a town that gets more than the average share of lightning and thunder. I've never seen a place that lights up like this one. So, while my DH was out running errands during a storm -- it was only thunder and lightning, no rain -- I gathered all three kids, and we watched the storm.

Libbyline was fascinated by all the colors that were illuminated by the flashes of lightning. Sweetcheeks was caught up in the cloud formations, and John Deere Green had a grand time trying to outdo the claps of thunder that seemed to shake our windows silly.

I am a writer by trade, but have joked that I've been suffering from a 10-year writer's block. I seemed to have used up all my creative, journalistic brain cells in making babies -- leaving very few for any current or future epics. So, when I got a burst of creativity during this storm, I jumped on it and wrote it down in a spiral notebook in the dark. I did it in the dark by the light of the storm so as to not spoil the moment. Here's what I came up with:

Flashes lighting up the sky
Thunder rumbles--
Sky so bright.
Dark and brooding-
'Tis really night?
Thunder crashes--
Sky so bright.
Lightning crackles
Blinking and winking
Across the sky.
Songs played out
Among dancing lights.

Flashes now slight,
Moving away,
Dark the night.
Raindrops dot the sky --
Sky so bright.
Thunder rumbles--
Returns to night.

Day break comes.
Dawning light
Washed with dew.
Gone the night.
Fresh from storms
Desperate night.
Welcome morning,
Welcome light.

It's far from Shakespeare or John Donne, but it captured what we were watching and experiencing at the time. I love storms--especially when I know we're inside and relatively safe. We found out later on our local news that our area had over 500 strikes of lightning in a less than two hour period. I was thrilled to have been privy to it!! God has a way of letting us in on His majesty, and I hope I take the time to truly enjoy it and include my children in it.

Have a great Monday!

"My soul, wait silently for God alone, For my expectation is from Him." Psalm 62:5 (NKJV)