Hiking Columbine Trail

Fall

The trail wound too close to the edge of the mountain. My foot kicked a pebble loose, and it skittered over the side. I avoided watching it's wake, scared to lean over. We were the back group in a crew of thirty, the others racing to the top.

My camera remained a ready friend in my hand, capturing every moment of the beauty. Mountains rose all around us, a tribute to the strength of my King. We rounded a corner into the most beautiful crag in the rock, full of flora and fauna, perfect for exploring.

That's when it hit. A raindrop. Then another and another. We heard the group ahead of us begin to yell as the sky blackened and lightening flashed. A mountain is not the safest location in a Colorado thunderstorm. Our leader came sprinting down the trail, the others in her wake. Water wound down the red mud, sliding beneath her feet.

"Get off the mountain. Get off the Mountain. Lord, get all these students off the mountain safely," I heard her whispered prayer as she whipped past me. My friends and I began to run, now more concerned with the lightening than the proximity of the edge. Water ran like a stream between my feet, and I began to laugh, a rough year of college bleeding off with the refreshment of a summer storm and the adventure of a Colorado mountain hike. As the potential of falling off the cliff increased with the deluge, I had no fear.

I fell more in love with Jesus in that storm.

"Let us acknowledge the Lord; let us press on to acknowledge Him. As surely as the sun rises, He will appear; He will come to us like the winter rains, like the spring rains that water the earth." Hosea 6:3

Linking up with other writers at Lisa-Jo's for Five Minute Friday.

Journey to Publication

It's official!!! After months of staying quiet about a potential contract, I have officially signed, dated, and mailed my 3 book contract with Charisma House.

Looking back on this journey, it is truly marked with the fingerprints of God's faithfulness.

- Rejected from grad school (spring 2009)
- Spent a year subbing and reapplying
- Lord closed the doors
- Moved back to Dallas in May 2010
- Met a writer and began attending a monthly writing group in June 2010
- Signed up for a local writing conference
- Last person admitted to the Fiction Writing Clinic
- Had to have 3 chapters for clinic, so I picked a story idea and wrote 3 chapters which later turned into this book!!
- Invited to join the Christian Writer's Guild Craftsman program
- Last person admitted to class
- Began in December 2010 with my mentor, DiAnn Mills

- Went to a conference in February 2011 and met with interested agents and editors, including one from Charisma House (who later instigated this deal)
- Went to a residency with Jerry B. Jenkins, DiAnn Mills, and Doc Hensley in April 2011
- Finished the manuscript by September  2011 and began A LOT of edits
- Finished the class in December - the exact education I would have received in grad school with the benefit of a Christian mentor and author
- Went back to February conference in 2012. Met my agent and the editor from the previous conference
-Signed with Sarah Joy Freese through WordServe Literary Agency in Spring 2012
- Submitted A LOT of manuscripts
- Began talking to Charisma House at the end of October 2012
- Received a letter of intent from Charisma House in November
- Signed the contract for a 3 book deal on January 14, 2013
- First manuscript due on February 1, 2013!!!

There was a time at the end of 2009 where I really questioned the Lord's goodness and sovereignty. I was doing good things and involved and growing. Why didn't He choose to bless me according to my plans? Good grief, if I knew the journey He would take me on over the past 3 years, I never would have doubted. His ways are not my ways, and His thoughts are not mine. They are light years better!

Looking back at this journey, I cannot claim credit for ANY of it. He orchestrated every step! Over the course of the last few years, my life verse has become Psalm 46:10, "Be still and know that I am God, I will be exalted in the nations, I will be exalted in the earth." Being still didn't mean passively standing by. I constantly prayed that the Lord would align my heart with His, and then I moved forward in faith. He doesn't promise to give us what we want. He does promise to use us if we are obedient and faithful, and again, that isn't always in a way that is comfortable. But He gets so much glory!!

I pray that you stick with me as the Lord continues to craft my story here. I can't wait to share sneak peaks and updates as we move toward publication in January 2014!!

Thankful Heart Day 18 - A Church Home

Just over 2 years ago, I stumbled into Watermark Community Church, craving community, something familiar, and something stable. I had just moved home from college and needed a fresh start in my home city. I needed a place to spread my wings and grow.

It didn't take me long to feel at home in this place. I always leave challenged and encouraged. Many days, I leave frustrated because of the biblical accountability...which is how I know it's working.

Every week, without fail, I am either privileged to see lives changed or hear stories of life change from those around me.

I have seen broken people made into beautiful, confident warriors for Christ. And, I am so honored to call them friends and serve with them in ministry.

This place is home. These people are family. We disagree, but we are learning to love one another well. We challenge one another with the gospel message, and we push one another to share it. We pray for one another and pray God does BIG things in our city.

I know this isn't unique to my church. But, I can't help but think it is something special, simply because I get to see what God does using the people here every week. On this beautiful Sunday morning, I am thankful that I walked in those doors 2 years ago. And I'm thankful for how the Lord has changed my life in that time. He is so good!

Thankful Heart Day 15 - Music

I am a music lover. My life revolved around choir and band growing up. But I love all genres and styles of music.

Today, I am so thankful for the beautiful gift of music!

Music...

changes my mood
is a form of worship
makes me smile
comforts
connects
inspires
challenges
calms
motivates
teaches



The Lord tells us to make a joyful noise before Him. He created music to be a method of praising Him, something beautiful to His ears. We don't always use it correctly.

I think J.R.R Tolkien described God's intention for music beautifully in The Silmarillion. This book is known as "The Elven Bible" to Tolkien enthusiasts. It is the prequel to Lord of the Rings and basically describes the creation of Middle Earth and the elves. It is like the book of Genesis, complete with a God-figure and a devil-figure. In this book, the God-figure creates the world and the elves with music. So Melkor, this devil-figure, decides to use music to trump God's creation. I love the way the God-figure responds:

"And thou, Melkor, shalt see that no theme may be played that hath not its uttermost source in me, nor can any alter the music in my despite. For he that attempteth this shall prove but mine instrument in the devising of things more wonderful, which he himself hath not imagined.” 

Even music that is meant to dishonor the Lord is not as beautiful as the kind meant to praise Him. What an awesome promise!

Thankful Heart Day 14 - My Sis

Happy 21st birthday to my beautiful baby sister! I am so incredibly thankful for her! 

She has grown as a person so much since she left for college. I love the friends she has made. I love her creativity and passion for excellence. I love that she is developing the artistic gifts the Lord has given her, and I really love that she isn't afraid to figure out her own style. It's also fun that we are both Red Raiders. Wreck 'em Tech!

Her joy is contagious, and she never ceases to make me laugh. She is both competitive and compassionate. She roots for the underdog and is fiercely loyal to her family and friends. She never backs down from what she believes is right.

And, I must admit, she completed our family. I am so proud of how she has grown in the Lord and how she encourages others. And I'm even thankful for my very furry nephew, Duke. Though I'm convinced he is the sickest dog on the planet, he is a sweetheart.

Happy birthday, sis. I'm so thankful for 21 years with you!

Thankful Heart Day 13 - He is Sovereign

Work got crazy today. Actually, the coming craziness is what scares me. We are currently preparing for HUGE changes, and it will require all hands on deck.

Sitting in my meeting this morning, my head began to spin. How will I finish writing my book and be fully present to help me team here? How will I balance my schedule in the craziness if I'm struggling with that now?

Thank the Lord that He is so Sovereign when my brain skips five steps ahead.

He knows I want to do my best. He knows my desire to please and spend time with those in my life. He knows my heart to write stories that make an impact past my own backyard.

He knows. 

Remembering that brings an incredible measure of peace to my day. One day at a time. Do my best today and let tomorrow and next spring wait until they get here.  He is not the author of chaos or stress. He is the author of peace and good plans. 

My fear stems from my stupid idea that I can somehow fix or control the events. Nope. He will give me strength to meet the needs of today and strength to meet the needs of tomorrow. What an excellent reminder to rest and trust in Him today!

Now back to work.

Thankful Heart Day 12 - Countdown to Thanksgiving

It's almost Thanksgiving break!

The countdown has begun. In just a few short days, I will see my brother and sister, my furry niece and nephew, my grandparents, cousins, and aunts, and uncles.

And I'll have a couple days off work to unwind. I CANNOT wait! With all three of us spread out all over Texas, holidays are a sweet time and always over too soon. And...with three big dogs, our house is nothing short of entertaining.

I'm so thankful for the coming family time and the opportunity to rest and recharge.

Thankful Heart Day 11 - Fall

There is something comforting about being back in the city I grew up in, even though it is enormous. No matter where I go, there are people and places that hold memories.

This morning I had the incredible privilege of worshiping at the place I grew up while my current community worship across town.

Today, I'm thankful for fall weather, Sundays, the rain, and community, no matter what shape it takes.

Fall weather in Texas is creeping in and leaves are falling, tugging at my creative heart with their color. I love that each is unique. I love that I needed a jacket this morning. I love that the air smelled like rain. I loved lunch with my dad. I have loved this beautiful, fall, rainy day full of familiarity - old and new.

Thankful Heart Day 10 - Saturdays and the Arboretum

It's a beautiful Saturday, and there is so much to be thankful for. After a week of not feeling great, I feel much better today. The weather is cool and windy, perfect for a walk outside, which is exactly what I did. Thanks to a friend who works at the Dallas Arboretum, I was given a couple of free tickets.

Today, I'm thankful for a gorgeous, calm day to spend time with a friend and enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors.

Fall is definitely one of the best times to visit the Arboretum, a natural oasis in the heart of Dallas. Pumpkins of all shapes, sizes, and textures are EVERYWHERE. Fall flowers cover the landscape and the Chihuly exhibit is amazing! Colorful, blown glass is strategically placed in all the gardens.

I gotta be honest - it really triggered my creativity. So thankful for days like this with a friend I have known a long time. There was no need for extra energy, no need to entertain or do more than walk and talk. We could just BE. Such a blessing!

Thankful Heart Day 9 - Quiet

I'm learning the value of QUIET again. What does it really mean to unplug in a world that constantly bombards us with messages "needing" our immediate response?

Quiet from the chaos in my own head, telling me what I need to do and when.

Quiet from the constant tug to people please.

Quiet from the hum of machines and the "ding" of my email.

Quiet from the voices on TV that paint a sadly accurate portrait of a crumbling American morality.

Quiet from my own fears and worries.

Quiet from the opinions of others.

When I quiet my mind and heart, I hear a different voice, One that whispers "this is the way you should go, now walk in it."

I don't need a microphone to hear it. This voice is familiar to me, but too often I turn the volume of life up so loud that I drown Him out. Sometimes intentionally. Sometimes unintentionally.

Today, I'm so thankful for the QUIET, still small voice that speaks to me in the whirlwind and the storm. 

Nothing erases Him. The voice is constant and strong, giving me the courage to stand strong and turn the volume up on everything else enough to make an impact but still hear His counsel.

"In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength..." (Isaiah 30:15)

Linking up with Five Minute Friday today!

Thankful Heart Day 8 - Lunch Dates

Just call me firefighter or jack-of-all-trades. It really depends on the day. My job requires a fast pace, random deadlines, and the occasional need to put out a fire at the last minute. That job usually falls to my team.

Some days, it is just necessary to get out of the office and not talk about work. Some days, it's important to build relationships.

I'm thankful for lunch dates with coworkers. Today's lunch date was with my boss, Bethany, at Corner Bakery.

I'm so thankful for time away from the office to fellowship and be refreshed. The walk was beautiful and the change of scenery really recharged my creative juices. Gotta love adventures in downtown Dallas. Oh the story ideas.

Time to knock out more projects!

Thankful Heart Day 7 - Productivity

I'm learning a few things about productivity in this writing adventure...

• It's not about waiting for inspiration to strike...just get busy!
• It's NOT a feeling. 
• It doesn't help to over think the situation. Make a plan of attack, and then carry it out.
• Busyness does not equal productivity. 
• It isn't perfect execution. It's about getting something on paper and then working through it later. 
• Getting something done is better than getting nothing done.
• Simplify the list. Identify what needs to be accomplished, and eliminate everything else.
• Tackle the biggest project first. The little stuff adds up, but too often it exists to consume our time and limit finishing a task.

Today, I am so thankful for a meeting-free day and time to be productive.

“Times of great calamity and confusion have been productive for the greatest minds. The purest ore is produced from the hottest furnace. The brightest thunder-bolt is elicited from the darkest storm.” Charles Caleb Colton

Thankful Heart Day 6 - I Voted!

I voted! I actually voted a couple weekends ago.

But today, I'm thankful for the freedom to exercise my rights.

Everyone seems to have an opinion "based on facts," but the facts seem to discount one another. Get a grip, people. After a while, your emotional response gets annoying.

My pastor said something very wise this past Sunday: The only election of eternal significance is the election into God's family. 

I love what Daniel 2 says about my God, "He changes times and seasons; He sets up kings and deposes them. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning."

Pray for wisdom and discernment for our leaders. God is Sovereign over whoever wins, and no matter what comes, He will get glory. Pray. Vote for issues that align with the Bible. CHILL OUT. And let's see what God does.

"Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin condemns any people." (Proverbs 14:34) Vote for what's right and pleasing to God!

Thankful Heart Day 5 - The Little Things

Today, I'm thankful for the little things...

1. A misty morning with cool temperatures
2. No traffic
3. Encouraging texts/emails from coworkers and friends
4. A busy day
5. My office team
6. Hot tea
7. Sweet truths in my devotional this morning
8. A few, quiet minutes of down time to work on my writing
9. The changing colors
10. The coming holiday season

Thankful Heart Day 4 - Baking Cookies

Day 4 - I'm so thankful for...

Time with my mom and the simple pleasure of baking cookies.

Even when I mess up the recipe because I just don't feel like doing all the math, Mom is there for a bail out. This weekend has been a perfect time to spend time relaxing and getting crafty. 

Thank the Lord for the weekends - for rest before a crazy week, for a power outage that reminded me to spend quiet time with the Lord, and for time with my parents. I know this time is limited!

There's something to be said for completely unplugging. And there's something to be said for time with Mom in the kitchen and the smell of snickerdoodle cookies filling the house.

   

Thankful Heart Day 3 - Shoe Boxes

Today, I am thankful for shoe boxes.

More specifically, I am thankful for the incredible privilege to provide Christmas for a child I will never meet. The last few years, I've participated in Operation Christmas Child. You fill a shoebox with suggested goodies for a child in need, and the box is delivered to another country.

After spending time in Haiti, this shopping task had my heart fully engaged today. I kept thinking of the little girls I held - their lack of clothes and toys, the joy on their faces with a simple coloring page, the need for school supplies.

My arms and heart were full as I approached the checkout counter.  My box is overflowing. I just kept thinking about all the things this little girl might need. I pray the Lord uses this box in a special way. I pray it brings a smile and encouragement. I pray that it meets a need for school supplies and toys and a new shirt.

I only wish I could help distribute these gifts!

Thankful Heart Day 2 - Quiet Moments

Fridays are the new Monday at my office. Since I work at a church, many ministers take Fridays off so that they are equipped and rested to serve on Sunday. So a few of us hold down the fort. With several events going on this weekend here, it is all hands on deck.

Today, I've been running around like a chicken with my head cut off. Literally.

On day 2 of this thanksgiving month, I am so thankful for the quiet moments of rest and renewal in the midst of a hectic day. 

Every day, I start work with reading Jesus Calling and meditating on the recommended scripture. Since today started of with a BANG, this afternoon is better than nothing. I love the tender truths that I discover here.

The reminder today...

"A yielded heart does not whine or rebel when the going gets rough. It musters the courage to thank Me even during hard times. Yielding yourself to My will is ultimately an act of trust. In quietness and trust is your strength." (Jesus Calling, November 2, by Sarah Young)

In QUIETNESS and trust is my strength. I choose to abide in Him in the craziness and in the calm. What a beautiful truth! Happy Friday!

Thankful Heart Day 1 - Honest Friends

Last year, I spent the month of November concentrating on building a thankful heart. Too often, I fail to thank the Lord for His goodness in my life, regardless of the circumstances. This year, I would like to start this again...30 days of a Thankful Heart.

Today, I am so thankful for my community group...

"Faithful are the wounds of a friend;  profuse are the kisses of an enemy." (Proverbs 27:6)

I gotta be honest...accountability sucks. I mean, it is awful. And I'm not talking about accountability for something I'm doing wrong. I'm talking about accountability for something I want to do right. But, check that verse out:

Faithful are the WOUNDS of a friend. 

Not the hugs of a friend or the compliments or encouragements of a friend, although I like all that. Nope. That verse is incredibly clear about pain inflicted by a friend. But the shocker is that those wounds are not the result of a broken friendship but a faithful friend, one who loves you and wants your best. 

Community isn't comfortable. In fact, it is very uncomfortable. But, I am safe and loved in that uncomfortable feeling because I know these women are running hard after Jesus. Therefore, I can trust them. I would rather have women in my life who tell me the blunt truth and encourage me in the right way than those who are so worried about my initial defensive reaction that they coddle me.

Tough love is better than selfish, kind words. Day 1? So thankful for blunt honesty and unconditional love in community. I pray we continue to sharpen one another.

"As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another." (Proverbs 27:17)

Live Inspired - The Power of TEAM

"One man can be a crucial ingredient on a team, but one man cannot make a team."  Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

Did you know today is National Encouragement Day?

Nothing is more encouraging than the unity and passion of a team. You become like those you surround yourself with. I am part of several teams: family, work, community. But there is one that I am very thankful for today....

We affectionately call ourselves Team Sidewalk. Our team volunteers at our young adult service every Tuesday night. We have two jobs: host and welcome every person who enters before the service, and pray with, encourage, listen, and share the gospel with people after the service.

A couple of weekends ago, we took a 24-hour retreat and walked away stronger and encouraged. Encouragement is so key on a team. These people...

• are passionate about sharing the gospel
• love every person who enters our doors
• relentlessly challenge one another
• look for the best, forgive the worst, encourage change and growth
• speak the truth of God's word
• pursue people to show them Jesus
• are honest and authentic with themselves, our team, and those we speak with
• desire to honor the Lord in all we do
• desire to build unity on our team and make the most of every person's strengths
• realize that their stories are not their own
• practice servant leadership by humbling themselves, even in difficult moments

These people show me Christ. When I'm discouraged, they encourage. When I am confused, they point me to Christ. When I am worn out, they walk with me and help me persevere. When I'm excited, they celebrate with me. When I am broken, they pray for me.

Because of their encouragement and example, I learn weekly how to live more like Christ. The Lord didn't create us to live in isolation. We were meant to be part of a team, a community. Who is running with you and making you better? Who are you encouraging and challenging? Don't miss out on this beautiful journey with the people in your life!

"Then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose." Philippians 2:2

Day 30 - A Month of Gratitude

Day 30 in this month of 30 days to a thankful heart. How did you do? A friend who joined me in the challenge messaged me last night to tell me that her heart has been so much more joyful since she has been intentional in her gratitude. That's awesome!

And I have to agree with her.

Gratitude is a heart changer. It takes the moments and things we usually complain about, and refocuses us. When we realize how much we are blessed, how much we really don't need, and how much God is in control, our heart changes from one of negativity to one of gratitude.

Today, I'm thankful I took the challenge, but this challenge is far from over. I began this challenge with every intention of a permanent heart change. However, that will take intentionality on my part to continue to be thankful in all things. Jesus is about transformation, not temporary change. Just as a caterpillar enters a cocoon and emerges changed forever, so the Lord desires to do with us. He is worthy of our praise, and I don't credit Him nearly enough.

Habit builds character. I want my character to say that I have a joyful, thankful heart instead of constantly complaining and wanting that which I don't have. Let this month of thankfulness set the stage for a new beginning. Will you join me?