Random Thoughts
Planning for a new year: incremental changes that add up
As I planned for the new year, I considered how to set myself up for a successful 2024. For those armed with big “resolutions,” I applaud you. But for the majority of Americans who make resolutions, researchers noted in an article published by Ohio State University suggest that only 9% complete them. Further, 23% of…
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When the going gets tough: committing to the life you want
Recently I stumbled across a quote that struck a nerve in one of those classic “truth hurts” moments. Simply stated, the struggles we encounter serve as tests to see if we’re committed to the lives we say we want. At that moment, I realized I’d been silently casting blame on others and/or my circumstances for…
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The launch of something new: calling all lovers of inspirational romance
With the advent of the new year still brand new, I figured what better time than to step out of my comfort zone? Although I’m new to the book launch scene, I thought it’d be fun to launch my very first influencer team for my Harlequin Love Inspired debut novel—“A Father’s Vow”—which releases March 26.…
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Christmas every day: approaching life with childlike wonder
Another Christmas in the books means the advent of a clean slate. For some, it’s “same old same old;” for others, each day is a new beginning filled with childlike wonder. I don’t know about you, dear reader, but I want to celebrate Christmas every day. And we should. Because on that first Christmas two…
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What happens next: saying ‘yes’ to you in 2024
The shopping has long been done, we’re all partied out, the gifts have been unwrapped (and a few returned), the cookies are now crumbs, the decorations sparkle a bit less—which can also be said of many of us. It’s that time of year, much like within the world of a good book, when we reach…
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Just do it: reflections on another birthday in the books
For as long as I can remember, I’ve enjoyed making a big deal out of my birthday. But this year, the date snuck up on me and it came and passed with little fanfare. In fact, it felt like any other day on the calendar—except for the customary princess tiara I donned for the occasion.…
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The 12 days of Christmas: a twist on the classic
When I was writing today’s post, I did a little research and discovered that the origin of the classic 12 Days of Christmas song involves theological significance. You can read more about that here. But in my version of the classic, I tweaked it so the recipient becomes the giver of an intangible gift. As…
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Improving the human condition: harness your superpower
What if I told you that everyone has at least one superpower? Does your mind automatically think of a popular masked comic book hero sporting colorful tights, an awesome skill and a flashy sidekick? Or do you liken a superpower to your God-given strengths and/or talents? Whichever camp you’re in, superpowers might be directly observable,…
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When life is out of control: taking ownership
Over the past year and a half, I’ve felt out of control in several areas of my life—from the contractors working on our cabin who operate on “mountain time,” to changes in my health, to my daughter’s recent major household move (it’s all good), to the ever-changing publishing industry. I’ve come to realize, however, that…
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Every story has already been told: bringing something fresh to the table
Today I’m talking about my latest five-minute romance featured in Woman’s World magazine’s Nov. 6 issue (on sale now!). The idea for A Surprise Invitation was sparked not long after our neighbors joined my husband and me for dinner earlier this fall. As I brainstormed ideas, I thought: What if a couple invites their widowed…
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