Random Thoughts
Fanning our gifts into flame: an ongoing effort
For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God…For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. ~ 1 Timothy 1:6a-7 I recently completed extensive revisions for my second Harlequin Love Inspired novel—THE FIRE CHIEF’S SURPRISE (July 2025)—a return to Northern…
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Embracing transition: holding on loosely
Times of transition are strenuous, but I love them. They are an opportunity to purge, rethink priorities, and be intentional about new habits… ~ Kristin Armstrong A week ago I attended a creative workshop facilitated by my mentor and former writing coach, Sage Adderley, that focused on the timely topic of embracing transitions. At the…
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A cloud of witnesses: running the race
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses…let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. ~ Hebrews 12:1-2 NIV This Bible verse compares the Christian life to running a race, or more accurately, a marathon. Which translates…
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Building in the non-negotiables: grounding your day the simple way
The other day I was listening to a craft-related podcast—Simply Write with Polly Campbell—which covered the topic of time management for writers, although I believe the methods highlighted can be applied to any vocation. One thing she discussed was the non-negotiables she builds into each day, which triggered a review of how I manage my…
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Learning how to be content: an attitude of the heart and mind
I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. ~ Philippians 4:11 Merriam-Webster defines contentment as freedom from worry or restlessness; peaceful satisfaction. Queue in the lyrics from the popular Rolling Stones’ song: “I can’t get no satisfaction.” This refrain suggests that contentment is elusive. Yet the Bible expounds on the definition by describing contentment…
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Hope deferred is not hope denied: good things come to those who wait
This summer, I’ve been busy writing proposals for a Guideposts’ imprint, submitting short stories to Woman’s World, and plotting a third Harlequin Love Inspired novel. In addition, I’m revising my second book under contract! THE FIRE CHIEF’S SURPRISE, a July 2025 release, has been more than a year in the making, my hopes deferred along…
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A hedge of protection: standing guard
Last year, I began the daily practice of prayer walks that include reciting scripture, petitioning the Lord, and praying for a “hedge of protection” around our property and community. When we first moved into our little cabin in the woods, we soon discovered we share our home with the forest wildlife that had come before…
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What happens in the kitchen: best kept secrets
When I was a little girl, my mom “tricked” me into eating her zucchini crisp by letting me think the (abnormally long) fruit slices were thinly sliced apples. And while the dessert tasted good, I couldn’t eat more once I learned the truth. Which proves that some secrets are best kept to ourselves—especially when they…
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Between the promise & the outcome: walking by faith
I’m believing in your promise, Lord. Several days after staking my claim (see Three more feet…), that had been my prayer. Yet I’d already become weary in that gap between the promise and the outcome. “Wait on the Lord.” While not audible, these words spoke to my spirit—reminding me that as believers, we walk by…
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Putting yourself out there: on the other side of self-doubt
Around the time my Harlequin Love Inspired debut novel—A FATHER’S VOW—released in April 2024, I’d heard about dozens of writing contests available for authors. At the time, I sat back and cheered on my fellow writers as they proceeded to walk away as finalists and award winners, while I was paralyzed by self-doubt. Once I…
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