Delayed gratification: wait for it
Out like a lion, in like a lamb. That’s what my husband, Bob and I had been hoping for as we bid farewell to March. But that’s not how it happened on the mountain where we live at 6,800 feet. And while we awaited the arrival of spring, we were also anticipating Bob’s hip replacement…
To improve is to change: figuring out what works best
Have you ever made changes to improve your well-being, and then wondered if it was worth it? For the past six months, I’ve been tacking on new goals to support a healthier lifestyle (see “Incremental changes that add up”). In addition to adding a new supplement to my diet and daily strength-training, I’ve also upped…
Set apart: shining your light before others
In the same way, let your light shine before others… ~ Matthew 5:16 The other morning, I approached the town’s postal clerk and asked, “What’s the good word?” “Obnoxious,” he replied, eyes twinkling. “And why is that?” He seemed to contemplate my question. “Because that’s what I am.” We laughed, then engaged in small talk…
Ordering our days: pause and pray
Recently I participated in a guest interview conducted by author Diana Leagh Matthews, and one of her questions was: What’s the biggest struggle you have as a writer? While I’ve always wrestled with limiting beliefs, if I had to choose one thing, I’d pick the elusive life-writing balance. As a full-time writer, I often get…
Showing up to the party: it’s a book birthday!
Today I’m thrilled to celebrate the launch of my Harlequin Love Inspired debut novel, A FATHER’S VOW—which has been 26 months in the making (see “Counting down…”)! I hope to see you on my Facebook Author Page—because what’s a party without guests? Throughout the day, I’ll be popping in with posts to introduce my new…
Asking the tough questions: how to best serve your life ‘story’
I worked with a writing coach a few years ago. As a “plotter,” I crave structure—a roadmap of sorts—before I begin a new writing project. But similar to what oftentimes happens in real life, stories are prone to get off track. To help combat that, my coach recommended reviewing my outline each week to confirm…
Forging or following: finding your own way
A couple weeks ago, I grabbed my trekking poles and followed a trail from our neighborhood into the national forest. Normally an easy route to navigate, deep snow rendered the path undetectable. With no human tracks to follow, I drew on past experience until a few familiar landmarks confirmed my location. And I started thinking…
Borrowing trouble from tomorrow: a reminder to focus on the present
During a recent trek through a fresh snowfall that blanketed our wooded neighborhood, my thoughts drifted to the many pressing matters that needed my attention in the days and weeks ahead—from medical appointments, to finagling schedules around contractors and winter driving conditions, to several writing commitments and a few road trips in the works. As…
Sharing the love: your next sweet read by author Nicole Lam
My newsletter this month was all about sharing the love through giveaways, a sneak peek at a new Guideposts book that features my family’s inspiring true story (stay tuned for more about that), as well as links to your favorite Harlequin Love Inspired books and authors—including yours truly. And with Valentine’s Day and Library Lover’s…