• Happy Anniversary


    We didn't see each other before the service, so pictures were taken after. . .

    ***Here is a repost of one of my favorites from the last Week of Love***

    When it came to choosing a person to do the scripture readings at our wedding, I didn’t hesitate–Lynn & RG Boeyink. That’s Charlie’s Mom and Dad.

    First, they’re awesome role models (married 43 years now!) Second, their faith continually astounds me. Third–well, there is no third, I just KNEW they were the people to do it.

    But when Lynn and RG made their way to the podium, I got a little nervous because I saw Lynn carrying a piece of paper.

    It was then that I knew she’d written something down.

    It was then that I knew, I would need Kleenx–lots of them.

    She just has a way with words . . . So, here is what she read.

    Not an eye was dry in the church.

    Enjoy, and be sure to stop by tomorrow, because my sweet hubby is breaking down his TOP TEN most favorite love songs. And he knows how to pick them, let me tell you.

    ~~~

    When was it Love?

    By Lynn Boeyink

    I wore my mom's wedding dress. My diamond is Charlie's mom's engagement diamond.

    Little did you two know that on the campus in Marshall, Minnesota, you would meet, eventually fall in love with, and today marry each other. As the months and years passed at Southwest State and the friendships came and went, you established yourselves there, chose your fields of study, worked and played, and the awareness of one another became more real.

    But when what is love?

    Was it a glimmer of in your smiles that set the world in fire or was it in the eyes that sparkle and light up a room?

    Perhaps there was something unique in that friendly manner and charm that seemed to be so natural. Or was it that confident style that told everyone you met that you could conquer any task or problem that came your way?

    Was it a sense of love on those first few dates when you were convinced that this is one very special person? Or, was it when the realization that your life goals and commitment to hard work were similar or when you realized that your enjoyment of the outdoors and sports were compatible?

    This is one of my favorite pictures of me and my dad on my wedding day

    Perhaps it was love when you learned of one another’s faith in Jesus Christ and that you both had a desire to be a part of the world around you but not to live by worldly standards. Maybe it grew to be real love as your time together became more and more cherished and your time apart more uncomfortable.

    It must have been true love when you looked into one another’s eyes and finally knew deep in your hearts that you wanted to be together forever.

    But you do know, don’t you, that it really was love long before you ever met, before your first date, even before you left home to venture out on your own to make your way in the world. Before you did any of these things—it was love!

    It was love because God says in his word, “Before I formed you in your mother’s womb, I knew you.” and He says, ‘I know the plans I have for you…plants to give you home and a future.”

    So you see, it was love for you when you committed to each other, but God loved you long before that, His love is eternal, and his plans for you stand firm forever.

    It was love for you before you were ever born, because God said so. He planned it that way. May you grow in this love for each other with time knowing always that your union is part of God’s divine plan for your lives.

    You may kiss the bride. Bonded for life now and happy to be.

    ~~~

    So, what’s your love story?

  • And so the story goes….


    We all know life has bumps along the way. If you’ve been following this blog for any length of time, you know I’m pretty up front about them, because I view each stumbling block as a chance to grow. Or a chance for another door to open. I’ve faced book contracts broken, unexpected unemployment, and literal bumps from bike crashes.

    This latest “bump” involves my agent–er–former agent. Yes. I’m sad to say Tribe Literary Agency is closing their doors. It was most unexpected. The week had started out rough when I woke to puddles of water soaking my living room carpet (leak in water system) on Monday. Tuesday was freaking awesome with the release of the Wasteland cover. Wednesday we received an email that TribeLit was no more. Thursday was a blur, but then each day got better and better.

    Sure, it’s been a rough week, but I share these things with you not to complain or seek sympathy, more to share with you something I hold near and dear to my heart: Faith. Now, whether you’re a Jesus follower or not, a life without Faith, Hope, or Love is just more difficult to navigate.

    I believe in the Faith, Hope, and Love so much, I had it tattooed on my arm a few months ago. I attribute it to the Bible, because that’s where I get my strength from.

    So, this post is meant to encourage you through the tough times. The stumbling blocks.

    Keep the faith and keep taking the next step.

    I’ve been asked by a few readers/fans if losing my agent will affect the release of my novel, Wasteland. It doesn’t at all. We are on schedule for a September release. I have fantastic editors at Crescent Moon Press who have stepped up and made me feel even more welcomed and wanted than they already have!

    Thanks to all my friends to sided up with me along this latest bump. I love you all.

    May you have a fantastic, fun, and safe Fourth of July!

  • This Writer’s Journey…


    Writing is a journey, one I truly love and enjoy, but it can sometimes feel rather lonely. Hour after hour, alone, at the computer, pouring your heart and soul into each word. But I’ve learned I’m not alone, in fact, I’ve been blessed to be in contact with some amazing people, both writers and non-writers.

    I want to share a bit of that with you. Each week I’ll be spotlighting someone I’ve come in contact with during my journey. Thanks for stepping along side of me-all of you-during this exciting time!

    ~~~~

    Ann Miller

    I first met Ann when I joined CWOW. It was the local chapter of the national group American Christian Fiction Writers.

    We started swapping chapters for critique, and I immediately fell in love with her writing. So smooth and engaging. Her characters were flawed and broken, yet endearing. I learned so much from her.

    Every writer needs a cheerleader, and let me tell you, she’s a great encourager.

    One thing that really stands out about Ann is her faith in God and compassion for people. She’s an amazing person and I’m glad to have met her!

  • This Writer’s Journey…


    Now, I usually do a little bit about someone I’ve met along my journey to publication (CLICK HERE for those I’ve written about so far), but today, I want to do something a little different.

    I want to hear about one person you’ve met along your journey. Whether it’s a journey toward publication or someone who’s come along side you in the journey of life.

    We’re not meant to walk alone in this world. I’ve been blessed enough to have come in contact with many people who have made me who I am today.

    But now, it’s your turn to share. If the person you list in the comments has a blog or website, put in the link, I’d love to go meet him/her!

    ~~~

    Have a fantastic Friday, everyone!

    ~~~

  • This Writer’s Journey . . .


    ~~~

    Writing is a journey, one I truly love and enjoy, but it can sometimes feel rather lonely. Hour after hour, alone, at the computer, pouring your heart and soul into each word. But I’ve learned I’m not alone, in fact, I’ve been blessed to be in contact with some amazing people, both writers and non-writers.

    I want to share a bit of that with you. Each week I’ll be spotlighting someone I’ve come in contact with during my journey. Thanks for stepping along side of me-all of you-during this exciting time!

    ~~~

    Lisa Kessler

    I met Lisa through the FF&P group. For those who don’t know what that is-it’s the Fantasy, Futuristic & Paranormal chapter of Romance Writers of America. I’ve met so many great people through that chapter.

    What drew me to Lisa was her never-ending optimism. She’s always so positive and encouraging. Her writing is fantastic. You should check out her blog. She’s got some sweet fiction posted on there.

    Thank you, Lisa for being a source of encouragement and optimism for all those you come in contact with. I’m glad to know you and hope to meet you in person some day!

  • This Writer’s Journey . . .


    Writing is a journey, one I truly love and enjoy, but it can sometimes feel rather lonely. Hour after hour, alone, at the computer, pouring your heart and soul into each word. But I’ve learned I’m not alone, in fact, I’ve been blessed to be in contact with some amazing people, both writers and non-writers.

    I want to share a bit of that with you. Each week I’ll be spotlighting someone I’ve come in contact with during my journey. Thanks for stepping along side of me-all of you-during this exciting time!

    ~~~

    Jill Williamson

    I met Jill through an online crit group while she was getting published with By Darkness Hid and To Darkness Fled. I even got to help with some of the critiques!

    Boy, she’s a great writer. I learned so much from her.

    What inspires me about Jill is her tenacity for young people, her dedication to the craft, and her tireless encouragement of other writers.

    She saw a couple of my early manuscripts when I was first starting out. And boy, they were ugly *blushes.* With patient, loving care and honesty, she helped me hone the craft a little more with each and every critique she gave me.

    Thanks, Jill.