Look at the sidebars

I borrowed an idea from another blog and added a "books I'm writing sidebar." For those of you who are unpublished (or underpublished!) writers, check it out. It gives a week-by-week glimpse into the life of a working writer. I use the four book system first introduced to me by author Janice Thompson: the book I'm writing, the book I'm developing, the book going through the publication process at the publisher, and the book I'm marketing. So check it out for current and upcoming projects, as well as blogs where I am a guest (chance for FREE BOOKS!)

I also have a sidebar where I list the books I'm currently reading. When I'm done, I give my reaction to the book. It's easier than a full review, and it's a bit more personal . . .but it's a way to give credit to some fantastic authors! Both Christian and secular.

Especially happy to have finished Merry Christmas, With Love. One book out of three finished.

What I want - or what I need

I listened to two sermons this morning on television. Two different takes on very similar themes: how do I get what I want? One was full of scriptural references. The other was based on a contemporary parable, an anecdotal approach to a scriptural truth.

The first preacher (I didn't catch his name so I won't impune anyone) said, "If you just believe God's hand is upon you, even before you see any evidence, you will see wondrous things done." He based his sermon on Nehemiah, and then also mentioned Job who praised God when things were at their worst. (and later was rewarded).

The other preacher spoke of a man who had lost everything. One New Year's Day, he heard a voice: Until you're thankful for what you have, you'll never have what you want. The man went on to write a thank you every day that year, and in the process transformed his thinking. I don't recall him quoting scripture, but it resonated from start to finish with the admonition, "In everything give thanks." The pastor cleverly ended with a twist: Until you're thankful for what you have, you'll never have what matters.

Of the two, the second sermon resonated with me far more. I confess, I have never understood the "health and wealth" school of thought, because it feels so patently untrue. Are they accusing the apostle Paul of lack of faith, when God didn't heal his thorn in the flesh?

This year I face physical disabilities that threaten to make me a recluse. My hospital stay added debt equal to half of the mortgage on my house.

And this I know: Like Job, I must praise God and give thanks, in the everything that includes crippling disabilities and debt. For God has not changed, and He is good and He is faithful.

And in return, I expect to receive what matters: daily bread--and a steadfast focus on the eternal God.

Anything more than that is only icing that makes the cake sweeter.

P.S. Tim Tebow of the Denver Broncos didn't get what he wanted--a win against the Patriots. But after the game he said he had received what mattered (not in those exact words, but close to it!). Grace under pressure.

P.P.S.: I have my author copies of A Ranger's Trail! Woo hoo!

EXCITING NEWS!!

This has been a week of highlights. . .

Lone Star Trail is on the BEST SELLERS list in the latest catalog from Crossings Book Club!

Here is the cover design for my last Heartsong title (with the sad demise of the book club), a story set in Mesa Verde about the making of a silent film.








Also, Jaran's best friend since middle school passed through on his way back to Denver. It was great to catch up with Nuri--I often say that he's the kind of friend every mother wants their son to have. It turns out he's pursuing a career as an author as well . . . legal thrillers. I can't wait to see one!

Now it's time to see if the Broncos can win a post-season game . . .

CHRISTMAS RAMBLINGS

I've enjoyed this Christmas more than any since Jolene's death. It's been a quiet month, but I did the things that mattered most to me. Presents for my grandchildren. A small Christmas tree. Christmas Eve carol service.

The carol service was a special blessing. I played carols while the choir sang. Jaran was there with his entire family. Jordan observed me carefully when I joined the family later, and chose the hymnal from the rack as we sang carols together. I'm not sure which one of us was prouder, me of her, or her of me. (Jaran said she seemed quite impressed that Grandma was playing the piano. I had forgotten she hadn't seen me play before.)

Friends brought me welcome gifts. A daily planner. A comforter for my bed. A box of chocolates. Jaran brought me Christmas dinner and gifts today. :) A lovely, soft, deep purple shawl, and a wireless router so that hopefully I can have faster internet service.

I''ve watched a ton of Christmas movies this season. Two stood at as being exceptionally well told (IMO). In I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus, a young boy sees his mother kissing Santa Claus--and thinks his parents are getting a divorce, and tries to drive Santa Claus away by his bad behavior. Another was A Diva's Christmas, a retelling of A Christmas Carol starring Vanessa Williams. They updated the familiar story in thought-provoking ways, although the arrival of the three spirits was as unlikely as ever.

Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night. . .

GRANDMA TIME

Saturday I celebrated a first: I had my son and his family over to my house, and we had a birthday party for Jordan. (Where have three years gone?!)

Jordan felt it was necessary to introduce me to everyone, as if I didn't know Savannah or Shannon. She didn't mention Isaiah's name. And she proudly announced her own full name, Jordan Elizabeth Franklin. (Another J.E.F., just like my beloved Jolene Elizabeth). She showed me her backpack and couldn't wait to take her place (by me, of course) at the princess-themed table. (She LOVES the princesses).

I bought enough of Pizza Hut's meaty marinara and chicken alfredo for 6-8 people, and we cleaned most of it up. When Jaran told me Shannon thought she wouldn't like either dish, we both grinned at her three helpings of alfredo. My aide bought letter candles that spelled "Happy Birthday" (since the store wouldn't decorate the cake for us). Only problem was the first candle was almost half gone before the last candle was lit . . .

Jaran slipped in the DVD for Neverending Story (how wonderful to watch my grandbabies enjoy the same movies I first discovered with my own babies). When the horse died, I pretended to cry. Jordan took one look at me and said "Oh, Grandma." She was rolling her eyes at me . . .

I recorded a book for Jordan while she was there. Jaran told me that as soon as they got home, she took out that book and listened to it over and over, and called Isaiah over. "Bubba! It's Grandma!"

Even Talia took part in the festivities, staying with the seven of us in the living room, retreating to her "safe spot" between four chair legs when Isaiah got too close. It's fun to watch Jordan protecting Isaiah.

Precious memories. Hannukah starts tomorrow evening. More to come . . .

GIVEAWAY OF MAPLE NOTCH BRIDES

Stop by http://juliejwrites.blogspot.com/2011/12/giveaway-interview-with-my-friend.html for a chance to Maple Notch Brides. Julie is one of my OKC writing buddies and she asks some revealing questions in her interview!

BOOK GIVEAWAY

Check out my interview at http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com/2011/12/christmas-at-barncastle-inn-darlene.html for a chance to win a copy of Christmas at Barncastle Inn.