Sunday, December 23, 2012

Merry CHRISTmas


As I finish preparing for Christmas and all of the festivities before and after, I am reminded that there is only ONE reason for this celebration and that is to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

These past many days have brought with them many changes to our world, and to our lives personally.

On December 9th Jeff's dad, Jim Reiser passed away at the age of 86. Jeff had the opportunity to go to Michigan and visit with him during his last good hours. It was good for both of them and Jeff felt God urging the visit. It had been many years since Jeff has seen his father because of Jim moving to Northern Michigan. So glad he made the effort as it was rewarded. We will be having a private memorial service to celebrate his life this coming week.

Everyone in this nation was affected by the horrible death of the 26 people in Newtown Connecticut. My heart hurt so badly for those children, and their parents as well as the adults that died protecting those babies. The only consolation I am able to find in my heart is that I know those children are safe in the arms of God. I tend to forget that evil is so rampant in this world. I get busy with "life" that I don't think about how tragedy occurs daily. Yes, our family was struck with this twelve and a half years ago with the abduction and murder of our daughter, Liz.

I guess I close myself off from things to help hold grief at bay. It's so difficult knowing that my life will never be the same as it was. I miss Liz so much. I miss her giggle. I miss her perfume. I miss her excitement about life. I miss her hugs. I am looking forward to seeing her again in Heaven.

I grieve for those parents that lost children. My heart hurts for them. I wish as most of us do that there was something I could do to help them. I wish my book was published so I could share our story and perhaps it could help someone deal with their loss.

OK. I am done being melancholy.

I need to focus on the blessings that we do have. Our family, our new home and the love of good friends.

I have children coming home in the next two days so I must close this post for now. Merry, Merry Christmas.

I pray that you all have a Christ filled Christmas, and a healthy and Happy New Year.


Thursday, November 22, 2012

Giving Thanks

Happy Thanksgiving to you all! There is so much to be thankful for. Today, at this moment, I have all three of my son's sleeping under our "new" roof. Jordan's unscheduled arrival on Monday has been wonderful. Micah and Christopher were planning on being here, and yesterday Christopher arrived after his classes ended at U of A. The tradition of my hubby, Jeff and our "boys" going rabbit hunting on Thanksgiving morning took place a few hours early since we thought that Jordan was going to have to  leave to go back to Indiana to work today. Apparently he is going to leave later or will be able to stay through Friday. Let's hope for the latter.

My guys love Thanksgiving. I do too. Last night they were working on getting Jeff's old Lionel train set to work. It hasn't run for over 35 years and they worked on it till it ran. It is now happily nestled under our Christmas tree that we put up on Tuesday night. Yes, I have my tree up before Thanksgiving. Trust me this is huge. Jordan wanted to put it up before he had to go back home. We thought he would have to leave yesterday. So, I am pretty tickled that not only Jordan helped without complaint0, but Micah was in there assembling the tree and stringing lights too. It's been fourteen Christmases ago that I had this much help putting up the tree. Liz loved Christmas and she always lent a hand or two.

Our lives have had such a change since our move last month. We love our little home. It is only two bedrooms (down from four) but so homey. I think that it is part of the reason that the boys (men) are home for this holiday. It was important for them to be here.

Micah will be leading worship this Sunday morning at the Uhrichsville Christian Fellowship and this momma will be one happy momma listening to that.

Our family will celebrate with Jeff's mother and sister and family today and tomorrow we will celebrate with my sister and family. Lots of good food (which I better get busy on) and lots of good family time.

Happy Thanksgiving to you all, and may God bless you.

Tuesday, November 6, 2012

My world has changed and so has my address.

Wow, my last post was July 25...a lifetime ago. So much has happened! On October 27 we moved  into our new home. It's not a new house, but it is fully remodeled and redecorated. We have downsized. I pitched tons of stuff, and still have more to get rid of.

My last post talked about NOT being a hoarder...ummm, yeah about that. Perhaps I was on the verge (my hubby and sons would say I was) of living that way mostly in the basement. Well I have a nice basement here, and I still have a lot of stuff, but beginning next week, I will be organizing it before the holidays. Most stuff is in boxes and totes--easy to move and organize, and see what I REALLY need and what I DON'T.

I loved the time we lived on the farm, but I am already loving our little brick ranch house. It's so homey. I like new beginnings and redecorating. Updating and so on.

I have promised myself that if I buy something new, I MUST get rid of something old.

In the world of publishing, there is nothing happening. I was not accepted as a client with the literary agency I hoped, and with the move it has all been put on hold. After I am settled I will have to begin my search once again and pray that He will lead me to the right one.

I must press forward, and I will.

I will attempt to blog more often, and post a few photos.

Wednesday, July 25, 2012

Be surprised

Yes, be surprised-very surprised. It is still the month of July and I am posting again.

I could bemoan the fact that I find it difficult to find time to write, but that wouldn't be all together true. I do have time. Now.

Sort of. I am waiting to hear back from the literary agency that I queried last week. I am not patient. I am rather fearful.

I am also up to my neck in mess. I cannot say that I am a hoarder, I just am a pack rat. I am currently (well not at the moment) cleaning my basement. I had tackled two of the three rooms about six weeks ago. I began the third and final room on Monday. I now know why I left this room for last. It was/is by far the worst. I think I knew that there were things in that room that I didn't want to look at. I had a huge meltdown at one point yesterday. I opened a shoe box that had been on one of the shelves for almost ten years.  When I opened it, and saw that is was a box of socks, and saw a certain pair I instantly fell apart. They belonged to my daughter, Liz.

She has been gone for over twelve years, and you would think that I would be further along than falling to pieces. It didn't last long, but it certainly came from the very depths of my being. I sobbed so loud and so hard it hurt.

I am glad that I know it is okay to have those kind of moments, otherwise I would have been scared. I was ambushed by grief, more by the shock of seeing something like the socks that Liz loved and had worn only a day or two before she died. Those cow spot socks that she loved and giggled every time she wore them. Our dog Buzz was a puppy at the time, not even a year old and he LOVED to chew socks. Liz got pretty mad when she saw that he had chewed holes in her favorite socks. Yet, she still wore them. Whew.

I have three huge boxes that I have to go through today. I am NOT looking forward to going through them, but I am looking forward to having a cleaned up basement. I MUST tackle this giant.

I will come up for air...




Monday, July 16, 2012

Hello?

Is anyone still out there reading this poorly neglected blog?

I have been so busy with edits from my editor to get Through My Tears ready to send out to agents and publishers that I have neglected quite a few things.

Sorry.

We are in the process of making some major decisions and that too has claimed my brain. Prayers for wisdom in these decisions are GREATLY appreciated.

I wish I could tell you more, but I don't have a lot to tell. I have been dieting yet again. I have not lost a lot of weight. About seven pounds in a month, but I am losing inches. I have about sixty (yes 60) pounds to lose...yes another small child's worth of weight. I guess I am working toward another "sister". Wandering around out there are at least three of me (enough weight to make three more of me). I am feeling better when I stick to the life style change. I typically eat fresh foods only. Very little if any meat. Lots of beans for the protein. I am noticing that the aching in my hands is lessening when I don't eat breads. ( I LOVE my bread too) I feel less sluggish. I do still have a lot of pain in my feet but most everything else feels better. I have slept without my wrist supports and my hands/arms aren't falling asleep, and waking me up. Soooooo, that is good.

I am so ready to be done working on this book. I need to get busy on the other two I have started. Well actually three. Whew. I tend to do that in my life, start several things and not get anything completed. Oh well.

I did get a great start in my basement. I got two of the three rooms  cleaned up. Still a lot of junk down there, but soon it will all be done. I've gotta use wisdom.

I guess I just wanted to let everyone know I am still kicking. I have spent time on facebook but if we aren't fb friends you have no idea what I have been up to. I will attempt to update this a bot more often.

Be back soon--bye!

Thursday, April 26, 2012

Another huge step

I just arrived home after dropping off my manuscript at the post office. I have been working on Through My Tears for many years, and it is now on it's way to my editor, then after corrections, shipping it off to agents/publishers to see if anyone is interested.


WHEW!


It has been a l-o-n-g time coming. I was pretty nervous. I had already sent the digital copy to her, but to actually have 302 pages of printed words in hand (envelope) and to put it in the mail....oh my.


I hope there won't too many things that she thinks need cut. Anyway, I just wanted to let all of you know what is going on. I am relieved, and now am craving something terribly gooey and chocolaty. Any suggestions. Oh, it has to have NO CALORIES, since I am trying to watch (yeah sure I am).


Last weekend I had the awesome opportunity to speak at the Women's ACT Conference in Tiffin, Ohio.  Top photo is of Lisa Troyer leading us in worship, second is Cindi Ferrini, she turned her head just as I clicked... and the third is as the women started arriving. There were about 325 women there.

Believe me when I say awesome! I was the "special feature speaker" but the main speaker was Cindi Ferrini from Cleveland.  Wow she knocked it outta the park for sure! My dear friend Lisa Troyer was the special music and worship gal. God is using that woman so much. She loves God, and flows in her worship/music and in the spirit and also in spontaneity.

I just love when I can spend time with ladies that love God! So, thanks to all of you ladies that attended the conference, you were a great audience, and very kind.

So, my friends, please be praying for the right publisher and agent to want to work with me. Also be praying as more speaking events are popping up for me. I love doing them, and want God to be glorified!

Saturday, April 7, 2012

Blog Tour with Jocelyn Hamsher



Do These Jeans Make Me Look Fat?
Breaking the Cultural Mirror


By Jocelyn Hamsher

The average fourth grader in the U.S. is on a diet. Four out of five women in the U.S. are dissatisfied with the way they look. The average woman is 5’4”, 140 pounds. Twenty-five years ago, models weighed eight percent less than the average woman. Today, models weigh twenty-three percent less. God has made various body types – only one of those is the tiny frame we have dubbed the prototype supermodel. She makes up five percent of the population, yet young women are literally dying to look like her. They are dying to be someone they can’t – somebody they weren’t made to be.

Do These Jeans Make Me Look Fat? Seizes the opportunity to proclaim truth to women and girls everywhere about genuine beauty. As believers in Jesus Christ, we have been given a bigger picture – a picture that far supersedes the lies of this world and the attack on our identity in Christ! In a world where body image and the world’s standards for acceptance and beauty have been thrown in our faces continually, we can begin to believe and uphold something false. But our bodies were made for more than what the world says about them, than what we have given them credit for, than the lies we’ve embraced.

As women we have the privilege to pass on the truth of God’s Word to the next generation, to protect and nurture those who come after us, to teach, model and lead by faith and love. Even if we haven’t been pleased with our body shape or like the changes that gravity brings, we can see our bodies with a different perspective. When we see ourselves in a true light, we may see the need for healthy changes. We may realize what we need to let go of or that which we need to embrace. We may learn to appreciate our bodies, we may even like them! Imagine what we could be if we embrace who He made us to be! Oh yes, Jesus changes everything. Pass on the bigger picture!

See Trailer below:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=IUxG0e_wwiw


A Fresh Perspective on Culture and Body Image—for Women of All Ages
From Jocelyn Hamsher, Circle of Friends Ministries Author and Speaker
Uhrichsville, OH—Offering a fresh perspective on culture and body image, Do These Jeans Make Me Look Fat?. . . Breaking the Cultural Mirror provides biblical encouragement that will inspire a new outlook, as you begin to see yourself through the Creator’s eyes. Releasing January 2012, Jocelyn Hamsher’s new title will encourage and motivate women of all ages.

Do These Jeans Make Me Look Fat?. . . Breaking the Cultural Mirror is filled with short, easy-to-read chapters that offer an inspiring new perspective for women. Perfect for personal and small group use, this first in the Women Living Life...Together! series focuses on an issue close to women’s hearts— beauty—and gives them the opportunity to walk in the freedom of who God created them to be.



About the Author:

Jocelyn Hamsher lives in Sugarcreek, Ohio with her husband, Bruce and three sons. She has served in women’s ministry for the last thirteen years teaching Bible studies, speaking, and mentoring. She enjoys leading character development classes in area businesses and finds some of the most rewarding ministry to be listening to and encouraging women over a cup of coffee. Partnering with Circle of Friends Ministries, Jocelyn has authored Meet Me at the Well Bible Study and the recently released, Do These Jeans Make Me Look Fat? Breaking the Cultural Mirror (Barbour Publishing). Can You Tell this is a Knock-Off? Finding Your True Identity in Christ (Barbour) written with co-author, Missy Horsfall, is due to be released this fall. Jocelyn is a contributing author for the Circle of Friends devotional series as well as a contributing writer for the Logos Women’s Blog. Jocelyn is a Registered Nurse, licensed chaplain, certified biblical counselor and is currently pursuing her masters in ministry degree.

www.netgalley.com or click on this link: http://bit.ly/pJmkP0.



Publication Information
Do These Jeans Make Me Look Fat?. . . Breaking the Cultural Mirror by Jocelyn Hamsher / Women Living Life...Together! Series January 2012 / $9.99 / 176 Pages * Paperback ISBN: 978-1-61626-549-6

Praise for Do These Jeans Make Me Look Fat?. . . Breaking the Cultural Mirror

"I love this book, and I love this gal! Jocelyn Hamsher is a new voice for women who want to run the race of faith with honesty, humor, and honor. Wish I’d had this decades ago!"
- Virelle Kidder, conference speaker and author of Meet Me at the Well and The Best Life Ain’t Easy

"Writing with warmth and humor, Jocelyn communicates God’s love, grace, and truth on an issue that is too often a source of frustration and even self-contempt for women. This book makes an important contribution for any woman who is struggling to accept and make peace with her body."
- Janice Hershberger, professional clinical counselor

“Jocelyn Hamsher has scored a hit with her new book, Do These Jeans Make Me Look Fat? She speaks wisdom, encouragement, and great hope into the soul of every woman (no matter her age) who is willing to embrace her very wise words. May you read this authentic, practical work with great joy."
- Jan Silvious, author of Same Life, New Story

"Jocelyn Hamsher captures the heart of every woman in Do These Jeans Make Me Look Fat? We wish we were spiritual enough to quit focusing on our body image and embrace the One who loves us just the way we are, but it’s hard to break the mold of self-criticism when our culture demands perfection. Jocelyn skillfully reminds us to see ourselves through the mirror of God’s Word. I highly recommend this book for personal and small group study."
- Carol Kent, speaker and author of Between a Rock and a Grace Place

“. . .a quick and delightful read, this book should be in the tool belt of every parent and mentor that has opportunity to invest in the lives of women, young and not so young. Jocelyn’s incredible gift of storytelling shines through.”
- Lisa Troyer, Circle of Friends Ministries

". . .a must-read for women of all ages. Jocelyn Hamsher takes a look into this serious subject with
hilarious stories and a realness that is refreshing."
- Wilma Mast, pastor and clinical counselor

Do These Jeans Make Me Look Fat?. . . Breaking the Cultural Mirror is part of a new series called Women Living Life...Together!

What topics or issues will this series introduce to female readers?

Topics in the Living Life Together series will include body image and genuine beauty, grace, choosing a peaceful heart in an anxious world, our identity in Christ, relationships, prayer, blessings and the sweetness of God’s Word.

It is mentioned that this book can be used for personal and small group use. Can you elaborate on that?

This book as well as each book in the series is designed for the individual or for small group study. Following each chapter are discussion questions to guide the facilitator through the material discussed in that chapter. They are meant as discussion starters so with practical, every day topics like these, very meaningful and insightful discussion can take place. Not only can women discuss what was offered in the chapter, but it serves as a powerful learning time for each individual as they listen to others share their hearts, wisdom from God’s Word and experiences of how God has taught them in the past and what He’s doing in their lives today.

What message or lesson do you want readers to take from this book?

I want women and girls to see truth and believe it. The world has so much to say about acceptance, about what’s important, about what’s beautiful. We’ve been hard wired as women with a desire to be affirmed and significant, to feel beautiful and wanted. But when we measure ourselves by how the world has defined these things or when we compare ourselves to others, we are continuing to strive for a false sense of security. We were created uniquely as God’s, not to look like everybody else, not to be like everybody else. We were created to be satisfied by Him. He has made our bodies fearfully and wonderfully and for His purposes, not the purposes of the world. Knowing who we are in Christ enables us to stand in the security of His embrace so we can take an honest look at ourselves – not only accepting and appreciating who He made us to be, but also asking for eyes to see what needs to be transformed – because we are His. Many times that calls for much needed adjustments in our hearts, our attitudes, our relationships, our self-care, our character or other areas of life. But when we know we are loved and accepted in Christ we discover a safe place and the courage to take steps toward change, inviting the Holy Spirit to lead the way. With this topic and many others, we as believing women have an opportunity and a responsibility to be vessels of God’s truth, not only embracing it ourselves but passing it on to the next generation.

What makes Do These Jeans Make Me Look Fat?. . . Breaking the Cultural Mirror different from other titles that discuss body image and support women’s self-esteem?

This book comes at body image from a holistic perspective – emotional, physical, mental and spiritual. From statistics to stories, from tears to laughter, addressing the present and the eternal, this book attempts to cast a bigger picture not only for the women of today but for the women of tomorrow. It is written in an easy to read, easy to understand style so that all can grasp it – the teenager to the golden ager. It’s truth to be passed on.

Do you have any future projects in the making?

My friend and accountability partner, COF author and speaker Missy Horsfall, have written a book due to be released this fall in the Living Life Together series entitled, “Can You Tell This is a Knock-Off? Finding our True Identity in Christ.” Discovering my identity in Christ changed my life, along with the gift of God’s grace. I would be utterly lost without Jesus. He truly does change everything.

CONTACT: Kelsey Keller kkeller@barbourbooks.com 740.922.6045 X 108 Author Available for Interview!

Product Description

* Are you down on yourself because you can't fit into the latest fashion fad? Hamsher says not so fast! Offering a humorous perspective on our culture's obsession with body image, she shares Bible-based encouragement and wise insights to help you see yourself the way God sees you---with love, acceptance, and appreciation. 176 pages, softcover from Barbour.
Publisher's Description

Do These Jeans Make Me Look Fat?. . . Breaking the Cultural Mirror offers a fresh perspective on culture and body image. Short, easy-to-read chapters—overflowing with humor and insightful Bible-based encouragement—will inspire a new outlook, as you begin to see yourself through the Creator’s eyes.

Editorial Reviews

This was such an easy and nice book to read. I totally loved it! I must admit I recognized myself on many occasions. My obsession to look good, to satisfy God knows what criteria. Well, this book did open my eyes a bit. I won't go that far in saying it will tell you something you don't already know, but the way the author puts it - it becomes too clear!
Product Reviews
100%customers would recommend this product to a friend.

This review is from Do These Jeans Make Me Look Fat? Breaking the Cultural Mirror.

Amelia R "Amelia" (Michigan) says:


This review is from: Do These Jeans Make Me Look Fat?: Breaking the Cultural Mirror (Circle of Friends) (Paperback) This book was so encouraging and uplifting. I found myself laughing and agreeing as I could relate to so many of the issues she addressed. It was as though one of my girlfriends and I were having a heart-to-heart conversation and she was reminding me how beautiful and valuable my body is, no matter what size I am. The chapters were easy to read, filled with personal and often humorous stories. Each chapter ends with 5-10 discussion questions making it perfect to do as a book study with friends.

A group of us in Michigan are going through Jocelyn Hamsher's book "Do These Jeans Make Me Look Fat?" With all the swimsuits out in stores now, I can't think of a better book or better topic for a spring study! If you haven't read it yet, you will enjoy the inspiring and encouraging message! - Amelia

5.0 out of 5 stars Do These Jeans..., March 26, 2012

lw6 says:

This review is from: Do These Jeans Make Me Look Fat?: Breaking the Cultural Mirror (Circle of Friends) (Paperback)

This book invites you to be yourself. The truths expressed within hug the reader with the love and acceptance of God. I loved the warmth, humor, and transparency this author uses to communicate a very sensitive topic. Gems of wisdom are written on every page and we are invited to live "real" before God and others. The overall message came through loud and clear: we are miraculously made and loved by God, our bodies and our lives are uniquely His, and we have divine purpose, every day, in Him.... no matter what our age.

Delightful and Encouraging, March 24, 2012

ktroyer says:

This review is from: Do These Jeans Make Me Look Fat?: Breaking the Cultural Mirror (Circle of Friends) (Paperback)

I couldn't wait some mornings for the kids to get off to school so I could read this book. It was like having "girl time" right in the middle of my living room, with my pajamas on! This book had me laughing out loud at some points, and at other times seeking quiet time with the Lord in prayer.

When I first picked up this book, I thought it was going to be solely about body image. What a surprise. It was about body image PLUS a whole lot more! It dug deeper into the focus of my body being God's dwelling place and dismissing the focus on the approval from others. This book taught me my body was "gifted to me to us to bless the Lord and others," and to love and appreciate it. It also teaches how your body is to be used to "accomplish the great purposes the Lord has called us to do."

As an R.N. I liked the information on our aging bodies and the advice on how to mentally and physically prepare for this. The information was right on! Being 41 years old, it also showed me I am not alone in fighting this battle of my aging body.

I recommend every teen/woman read this book. Us woman need to learn to value our bodies, love, and appreciate them. This book reveals that we should not compare our bodies to one another, and use our bodies in the way Christ intended them to be used. It is a MUST read!
5.0 out of 5 stars Do These Jeans Make Me Look Fat - Amazon.com, March 21, 2012

Wtail says:

This review is from: Do These Jeans Make Me Look Fat?: Breaking the Cultural Mirror (Circle of Friends) (Paperback)

What an awesome book! I recommend this book to all women/teens who struggle with body image of any type. It's an easy read & it will help raise any woman's self esteem!
5.0 out of 5 stars So do they make me look fat?, January 26, 2012

This review is from: Do These Jeans Make Me Look Fat?: Breaking the Cultural Mirror (Circle of Friends) (Paperback)

Irene says:
-

Do These Jeans Make Me Look Fat?: Breaking the Cultural Mirror (Circle of Friends) (Paperback)
Do These Jeans Make Me Look Fat? An interesting title for an interesting book. Author, Jocelyn Hamsher, is trying to get you away from depending on others opinions to find peace about your bodies and instead look to your Creator.

Using examples from her life and stories from friends she walks us through the steps to stop comparing ourselves to what the world says is a worthy woman to what the Bible says is a worthy woman. Knowing who you are in Christ and what He expects of us while we live in these earthly bodies will lead you in the right direction. Waking up and looking up instead of in the mirror can really change your outlook for the day.

Not only does this book teach you about not comparing yourself to others but it also goes to great lengths to teach you how your body changes over the years. Citing numerous statistics and surveys you will learn much about how the woman's body will change. You will better understand that getting older is not something you will do alone but is something you will have to accept! I liked the funny stories shared but also got a little discouraged by all the negative things that happen to your body. Of all the things shared there were really no solutions given except to just know the changes were coming and get mentally prepared for them.

Overall I thought the book was very educational as well as thoughtfully written. Even with taking my spirits down a bit with all the body aging information I still gave this book a 5/5 stars. I did this because the information shared is very informative and worth at least one read!

I would like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for the copy of this book I enjoyed reading. I gave an honest
review based on my opinion of what I read.


Becki says:

This book hit's the nail on the head!
March 31, 2012

I felt as though Jocelyn was reading from my own journal. She was writing from the position of truly knowing and understanding the barriers that women feel about their bodies. More importantly she wrote with the Biblical truths that we tend to think don't apply to us, it's for that other woman. We are not perfect, and this book tells us that none of us are. It strongly encourages us that you don't have to be perfect to be loved by God.

I fall into the category of the men-o-pausal woman so I could certainly relate to so much of the "what we have to look forward to" portion of the book. And after reading it I still am looking forward to it. I had to laugh, because I could relate to so much of it.

We live in a world that is always full of comparisons, and this book addresses the things that most women battle.
I highly recommend this for every woman that has ever felt "less than perfect!"



Product Information
Format: Paperback
Number of Pages: 176
Vendor: Barbour Publishing ISBN-13: 9781616265496
Availability: In Stock
Series: Circle of Friends

Wednesday, March 7, 2012

Shocking...

I have been shocked by what I watched. I want to make a difference. Please take the time to watch this YouTube video.

As a parent of an abducted child, this hits home. Now, it is time to do something about it. The man that murdered my daughter has been stopped, let's STOP KONY!


www.kony2012

Monday, March 5, 2012

Oh my goodness

Well, it seems that I apologize about posting more than I post. I cannot believe that it has been nearly two months since I posted anything.

My time has been busy. My dear 84 year old mother-in-law fell the day after Christmas and had a concussion and serious bruises, She spent a couple of days in the hospital and then two months in the nursing home. Last Thursday she was able to come home! We are so grateful that she didn't break any bones. It was a long stay for her, and more so for her husband that was home alone. My sister-in-law and I took turns taking care of him until we were able to get home health care to come in to help him. Whew... glad we are beyond that.

My mother-in-law is still pretty weak, and doesn't move to fast, but she is glad to be home. It's tough getting older and not having good health. I am thankful that she is getting help from home health care and also from a friend. My sister-in-law and I are helping some as well.

I have also been very vigilant in working on my book Through My Tears. It is nearing completion. Prayers appreciated!

I am also trying to clean out closets and purge drawers and catch all's. I have yet to do the basement, but eventually it will get done. So, now you can see what has suffered.

I am so sure you get tired of looking on here to see if I have posted anything. Thanks for being patient. I will try to do better.

Have a great first week of March.

Monday, January 16, 2012

Ohhh another wonderful book and give away!

My friend, Suzanne Woods Fisher, has yet another book about to be released and here is a fabulous give away to go with it! Be sure to RSVP today because the give away is tomorrow!

A " Honey" of an iPad Giveaway

Prize Details

A “Honey” of a Giveaway from Suzanne Woods Fisher!

Suzanne is thrilled to announce the release of The Keeper!

Full of the plot twists and surprises her fans love, The Keeper is the first in a new series by bestselling author Suzanne Woods Fisher.

“Packed with romance, secrets, betrayal, and forgiveness—Fisher knows her Amish history and stays true to their beliefs and way of life.”
—RT Book Reviews, 4 Stars


Follow the blog tour and see what the reviewers are saying!. Many of the bloggers are giving away copies of the book.

The Keeper is in stores now and to celebrate Suzanne is hosting a “Honey” of a Giveaway and a fabulous FB Party (1/17).

*During the giveaway one Grand Prize Winner will receive a Prize Pack (valued at $600):

* A brand new 16 KB iPad 2 with Wi-Fi

* A $25 gift certificate to iTunes

* A copy of The Keeper

Then on 1/17 join Suzanne for The Keeper FB Party at 5:00 PM PST (6:00 MST, 7:00 CST, 8:00 EST)!

During the party Suzanne will announce the winner of the “Honey” of an iPad Giveaway and host a fun book chat and give away some fun “honey” inspired prizes – It’ll be ’sweet"! RSVP early and tell your friends!
_____________________________________

About The Keeper:

Can Julia secure the future she’s always dreamed of? Or does God have something else in mind? 4 Stars from Romantic Times, “The Stoney Ridge Season starts off with characters who are trying to make the right choices, but sometimes with unexpected results. Fisher always brings freshness to her Amish novels. The Amish culture is interesting to read and learn about, but there is also a message: God has plans and those plans may vary greatly from the plans you have”.


Meet Suzanne:

Suzanne has a great admiration for the Plain people and believes they provide wonderful examples to the world. In both her fiction and non-fiction books, she has an underlying theme: You don’t have to “go Amish” to incorporate many of their principles—simplicity, living with less, appreciating nature, forgiving others more readily— into your life.
When Suzanne isn’t writing or bragging to her friends about her first new grandbaby (!), she is raising puppies for Guide Dogs for the Blind. To Suzanne’s way of thinking, you just can’t take life too seriously when a puppy is tearing through your house with someone’s underwear in its mouth. Suzanne can be found on-line at: www.suzannewoodsfisher.com.

Prize Eligibility
Only persons residing in Australia, Canada, and United States who are at least 18 years of age can enter.
Sweepstakes Starts
January 03, 2012 @ 12:00 am (PST)
Sweepstakes Ends
January 17, 2012 @ 12:59 pm (PST)
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Sunday, January 1, 2012

2012

Happy New Year to one and all!

Every year for the past five years or so I have decided to not have a New Year's resolution. Instead of resolutions which I tend to "break" after a very short amount of time. I decided to pray in the months before the end of the year about a "theme" that God wants to speak to me throughout the year. Some of the themes of the past years have been:

*Fasten your seat belt, God is moving fast
*Help me to look for God in unexpected places
*You (God) take my heart by surprise
*Be still and know
*Let me see others through God's eyes

This year I think I may have a double word. The first one being: "For such a time as this" and the second is: " Lift your vision higher, for without a progressive vision we run aimlessly."

So, what has God been speaking to you?