God is many things, but He is not silent.

His followers cannot see Him, but all they see around them is evidence of Him. His voice does not echo in their ears; instead it resonates in the hearts of those who pause to listen.

Our God approaches,
      and he is not silent.
   Fire devours everything in his way,
      and a great storm rages around him. 
Psalm 50:3 NLT

For many years I tried to ignore God. I wanted to do my own thing. I'd grown up going to church so I knew He was out there. Like a toddler with her fingers in her ears, I didn't want to pay attention. It took me sinking far enough: ending up pregnant at 17, losing my boyfriend and friends, and facing depressions that I paused and listened. And what was God trying to whisper to my heart? "I love you, Tricia. I have good plans for you. Come to me. Trust me."

Photo credit

So many times we don't want to pause and listen to God. We know we're doing something we shouldn't and we expect condemnation from our Creator. Yes, God will speak to us about our sanctification--about getting our lives and spirit right with Him--but every time I've come to Him in defeat, the first thing I feel around me is His arms of love.

Do you feel uneasy in your soul? That's God speaking to you, telling you to come to Him.
Do you have guilt over a sin you don't want to walk away from? That's God speaking to you, telling you to come to Him.
Do you have a sense there is more to life than what you've been experiencing? That's God speaking to you, telling you to come to Him.

Sit before Him.
Expect a stirring within.
Open His Word.
Read His truth.
Know the words of the Bible are for you.

photo credit

When you seek God there may be a time of fire and storm--or at least that's how it seems. But know that when He speaks Your life will be transformed, for beyond the storm there is a gentle voice, "I love you. I have good plans for you. Come to me. Trust me."

Teens and Their Supernatural Pursuits

Guest post by Melody Carlson


Have you even wondered why some teens are drawn toward things like Ouija boards or psychics? Or why séances are still popular at sleepovers? Does it just have to do with Halloween and that spine-chilling need for a good scare? Or could it be something more? And, as a Christian, should you be concerned?

Those questions, as well as some confused reader letters, prompted me to tackle the “supernatural” in one of my teen novels (Moon White, TrueColors, Nav Press). And whenever I write an issues-based novel, I’m forced to research—and often in some dark places. So I began scouring websites, learning more about Wicca and the occult, trying to grasp what was really going on with today’s teens—and how I could write about it in a helpful and relevant way.

But, as usual, when I write a teen book, I go back to my own adolescence...trying to connect with my inner teen...and I suddenly remembered a short era when a friend and I got very interested in witchcraft. I had honestly forgotten about this time and was fascinated to recall how we scoured some witchcraft stores on a local campus—I think we even purchased a few things. Fortunately, this interest was short-lived and I became a Christian not long afterward.

However, as I reconnected with my inner teen, I had to ask myself—why had I looked into witchcraft back then? Why do teens dabble with it now? Suddenly the answer became crystal clear. I was searching. I’d been calling myself an atheist for several years by then, but I was spiritually hungry—starving in fact. Consequently I was looking for spiritual answers—something that would fill that empty void within me. I wanted a supernatural force in my life and I didn’t even care where it came from. I needed something bigger than me, more powerful than me, something to hold onto. I had no idea at the time that I was really searching for God.

This realization changed the way I viewed my research. Instead of feeling disgusted and dismayed by the witchcraft/Wicca sites (which are not particularly enjoyable) I began to recognize that these people (mostly girls) were simply searching too. They wanted a power source in their lives just like I wanted one in mine. They just hadn’t found God yet.

This led to another discovery. A girl who’s attracted to a religion like Wicca is usually seeking to gain some control over her life. Something is wrong and she wants to change it. To do so, she’s often enticed to purchase something—like “magical herbs”—to create a potion that will give her some control over her situation. Unfortunately, she doesn’t even realize she’s being tricked.

But think about it, wouldn’t you love to have control over a bad situation sometimes? Wouldn’t you love to be able to change the circumstances that make your life unpleasant? So what if someone offered you the “power” to do just that? Perhaps if you’re fifteen, you wouldn’t see that person as a charlatan and you would fall for it.

Which brings me to another important factor in understanding this generation’s attraction to the supernatural. Follow the money. The more I researched, the more it became painfully obvious that Wicca and witchcraft and the occult are money-making enterprises. Thanks to the internet, these savvy distributors sell anything imaginable—and many things you can’t. That leads to some serious motivation—these marketers want to hook their unsuspecting young customers and reel them in. Of course, these potions and trinkets and how-to books don’t come with a money back guaranty. Nor are they approved by the FDA. Yet they are a multi-million dollar industry.

So, in a way, it’s a perfect storm. Teens that are insecure, lost, unhappy, and searching...meet up with an unregulated industry that offers supernatural answers and power and control...for a price. And, oh yeah, I never even mentioned how this opens a door for Satan to slip in and wreak havoc. For that...you’ll have to read the book.

More about Melody: Melody Carlson is the best-selling author of more than one hundred books, including the TRUECOLORS series. She has two grown sons and enjoys an active lifestyle of hiking, skiing, and biking. Melody lives in the beautiful Oregon Cascade Mountains with her husband and Labrador retriever. 


Visit her website for more: www.melodycarlson.com. 

Mornings with Jesus

Reposted from Guideposts

The seven Mornings with Jesus writers reflect on their relationship with Jesus—how it grew and changed as they delved into Scripture and wrote the devotions for the book—and what they learned about Him.

Many of the Mornings with Jesus writers felt connected to the Old Testament as they researched passages for their devotions.

As Camy Tang was writing, she said that God seemed to be drawing her toward the Old Testament verses.  “Writing the devotions,” she wrote, “made me realize that Jesus’ love for me is as fierce as the love of God for the Israelites in the Old Testament.” A book Keri Wyatt Kent wrote—about the Old Testament—right before writing for Mornings with Jesus changed Keri’s understanding of Jesus. “Writing that book really showed me how much of the Old Testament, even the laws, sacrifices, etc., all point to Jesus,” she said.

Erin Keeley Marshall, like Camy and Keri, also felt drawn to the Old Testament as she was writing. As she explains it, “Oftentimes that 2/3 of the Bible is pushed to the background, and God is seen as distant and angry throughout. It's true that the New Testament is about the age of grace that Jesus ushered in. However, when we realize that way back in the first chapter of Genesis, God foretold his plan to send a Savior for us, we can look at the Old Testament story as one of supreme grace, mercy and love.”

Whether their emphasis was the Old or New Testament, all of the writers felt connected to the person of Jesus in all his different facets—as son of God, as Savior, as friend and lover of our souls. Sharon Hinck reflects, “I love finding the hints of Jesus woven throughout the Old Testament, as well as the direct experiences of those who walked with Him in the Gospels or described Him in the Epistles. I learned that Jesus has so many names and descriptions to encompass the many needs we have that He meets.”

Some of the writers were surprised by their writing process and how God led them to certain passages of Scripture. When Tricia Goyer first heard the title Mornings with Jesus, she thought the writers would be focusing on the Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. But as she says, “The more I started praying and digging into God's Word, the more He reminded me that the whole Bible is about Christ. He was there from Genesis 1 as The Word and His message is on every page. The study of Christ is the best study because it reminds me I don't need to learn about Him, He is with me at every moment. Our relationship continues to grow! I started out drawn by the New Testament ... until Jesus reminded me to ‘look around’ and that He had more to share from His heart.”

All seven writers were drawn to reflect on the life of Jesus and the time He spent on earth. Gwen Ford Faulkenberry says it beautifully, “I wanted to walk with Him like one of the disciples, feel the dust on my feet, see the lines on His face. [Writing for Mornings with Jesus]was definitely an intimate experience.”

May spending your Mornings with Jesus bring that same intimacy to you, as well.

Download some sample devotions here.

Rebecca Maker is the book editor and developer of Mornings with Jesus.

Thursday on Living Inspired: Amanda Bennett!

To listen to the interview: go here and click on the player in the upper right corner of the screen. Thursday at 3:00 pm Central.


Don't miss this week's interview with the amazing Amanda Bennett! We'll be talking about homeschooling, curriculum, Veteran's Day and catching up with Amanda and what's she's been up to since she was on last on Living Inspired.

For a chance to win one of Amanda's great new unit studies, leave a comment {HERE}.

More About Amanda:
Take one mechanical engineer, add three bright and busy children and a loving husband, and you have the formula for Amanda Bennett, best-selling author and popular homeschool speaker. Amanda has more than 90 books and two college graduates to her credit (one with a degree in veterinary medicine, the other a business degree). Her third child just began his college adventure in the fall of 2011.

Amanda’s love of life and zest for learning infuse her work with well-known passion and energy that make her a leader in the homeschool arena. She relishes her role as the “ultimate encourager,” answering questions, sharing personal anecdotes, and giving others the skills and confidence to help children fall in love with learning. From lost pants to melted aluminum pots, Amanda’s stories keep readers and audiences laughing as she teaches about life, academics, and developing the God-given talents of every child.

Amanda brings her encouraging words and wisdom to audiences across the United States. She is a popular and highly demanded speaker on the homeschool circuit, and also appears at online conferences. Her lectures attract both national and international attention.

Over the past eighteen years, Amanda has spoken before tens of thousands of parents and professionals, encouraging, entertaining, and equipping them to teach with confidence.

Amanda lives on a tree farm in the Appalachian Mountains of Tennessee with her husband of 32 years. Together they enjoy the view and life’s ever-changing seasons. She is an avid photographer, wannabe quilter, and voracious reader, as well as a forgetful cook with a top-of-the-line smoke detector. Most of all, Amanda is a follower of Jesus Christ – forgiven, loved, and infinitely grateful.

More about Amanda's new Unit Studies:


Veteran's Day
Veterans Day--what does it mean to you? The history of this holiday is important; it exists because of the strength and conviction of past generations that we should always remember our veterans and their sacrifices for our peace and protection. This week-long study guides students to become familiar with veterans, their sacrifices and their courage. Let's bring out the flag and applaud our veterans. Let's teach these things to our children, so that we never take our freedom and liberty for granted. For more information or to purchase, go here:http://www.unitstudy.com/Veterans_Day.html

Passport United Kingdom

Pack up and get ready to travel to the United Kingdom with Amanda Bennett’s new Passport Geography series! This one-week unit study has been developed to provide your student with a virtual tour of the United Kingdom, covering the geography of this nation, as well as some of its history, art & literature, landmarks, and
interesting people. You will see and hear the sights and sounds of cities and villages, people, daily life, tourist spots, and historical places, all from the comfort of home–no passport required, other than your Passport series unit study! For more information or to purchase, go here, http://www.unitstudy.com/PassportUnitedKingdom.html 

What's most important?

Last week I was the guest blogger over at my friend Joanna Weaver's (author of Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World and two other fabulous titles) blog. She's running A Year With Oswald series. Check it out and sign up to receive the series and join the discussion. I'm inspired by her authenticity and friendship.


VERSE: Jesus answered, "My kingdom is not of this world--" John 18:36

OSWALD: "The great enemy of the Lord Jesus Christ today is the idea of practical work that has no basis in the New Testament but comes from the systems of the world. This world insists upon endless energy and activities, but no private life with God. The emphasis is on the wrong thing. Jesus said, 'The kingdom of God does not come with observation...For indeed, the kingdom of God is within you...If You waste your time in overactivity, instead of being immersed in the great fundamental truths of God's redemption, then you will snap when the stress and strain do come. But if this time of soaking before God is being spent in getting rooted and grounded in Him, which may appear to be impractical, then you will remain true to Him whatever happens." (October 19)

MY THOUGHT: This post almost didn't get written today. That is the truth. I've been pretty busy lately, you see. I work full-time writing Christian books--books that I hope will share God's hope through story. I blog, too, because I know there are a lot of people out there who need encouragement. Last week, I dedicated myself to my family and we went on a family vacation. I never want them to feel as if my work and service are more important to me than them. We have three older kids, and an adopted baby. My 82-year-old Grandma lives with us. Why? Because the Bible says to care for the orphans and the widows. I should mention I run a week support group for teen moms, because they need to hear the good news of Jesus too? Oh, yes, and I can't forget, as of last night we have five more people in our home. A young  couple with three kids needed a place to stay for a while. Of course we opened our doors. How could we not?

All that seems pretty important right? It's not.

Yes, it's good to care and love and serve. I do feel called to write and to evangelize, and there should always be time in my schedule to help with the needy and spend time loving those God put into my life, but none of those things should take the place of God. Of spending time with Him. Of thanking Him for my salvation. Of filling up with His Presence.

I've been feeling weary and overwhelmed lately, and Oswald reminded me that I need to soak in God for a while. I need to immerse myself once again in the great fundamental truths of God's redemption. In life there will always be stress, strain, things to do and people to help, but I'll only be able to handle it when I'm rooted in Jesus and filled up with Him. Then His love can pour out to others through me, instead of me depending on my own strength, which never works.

So, yes, I'm glad I got this post written. Out of all the things on my to-do list today it's reminded me where my focus needs to be. I'm off to soak in Him for a while.

Patchwork of Hope Contest!

While I'm toodling about the Amish countryside on the Along Wooded Paths book tour, I thought I'd tell you about my AWESOME NEW AMISH CONTEST!!!! All the details below - and if you want to help spread the word and add my contest button to you blog, just copy and paste that code in my sidebar! Thanks ------->

In Along Wooded Paths, the brand new novel in Tricia's Big Sky Amish series, young Marianna Sommer finds life in Montana is a tumbled patchwork that's not as easily arranged as her quilt squares!

When the man she intended to marry travels from Indiana to see her, and the Englischer she's come to admire makes his interest clear, the fabric of her heart--and her dreams--is pulled in two very different directions.

To celebrate Marianna's story of love and faith, we're offering one Grand Prize winner a $300 Amish Artistry prize package sure to wrap you in delight.

The Grand Prize Winner of our PATCHWORK OF HOPE Contest will receive:

A gorgeous, handmade Amish quilt, featuring embroidered scenes from Amish life. This carefully detailed quilt measures 4 ft. wide by 5 ft. high, perfect for a daybed or living room throw.

Four original Amish art drawings, featuring characters from the Big Sky series. Characters featured are: Aaron Zook, Jebadiah Beiler, and Sarah Shelter. Each piece of art is matted and custom-framed, and measures 10.5 in. wide by 12 in. high.

Click here to see photos!

To enter, simply click the Enter Now button below, fill out the entry form, then tell five (5) or more friends about the contest! The more people you tell, the higher your chances to win, so be sure to share the fun.

We'll select the winner on Monday, November 7th, and we'll announce the name on Tuesday, November 8th right here on the web site.

Thursday on Living Inspired: Get {w}hole with Lisa Whittle!

To listen to the interview: go here and click on the player in the upper right corner of the screen. Thursday at 3:00 pm Central.



Don't miss my interview with Lisa Whittle lives in North Caroline where she is a busy wife and mother of three. She is also a author, speaker, an advocate for Compassion International. In addition to writing her own books, she also writes for writing Women of Faith, Proverbs 31, and guest posting on blogs like Michael Hyatt along with numerous other publications. But, Lisa is not all work. Her other passions include chocolate macadamia nuts, home decorating, and her growing ministry community. She loves conversations that dip below the surface, uniqueness in people, and her Jesus who makes all things well. Bundle all of that up and you're in for a real treat on Thursday between 3-4 PM Central. Join us.

For a chance to win a copy of Lisa's latest book {w}hole - leave a comment [HERE]. Winner will be notified next week via email.

More about Lisa:
Author and Speaker, Lisa Whittle is a natural leader and bold thinker. As the first solo female author to originally launch under the popular Barna Group, her third and latest release, {w}hole comes out this month.

Taking on the task of writing the most grueling project of her life, Lisa says of this process, “It’s been a difficult and divine experience and I’ve left my carcass in it’s pages.”

Exposing the holes in her life, she shares her story that will both compel and inspire, opening up and offering her own feelings about the church, her standoff with failures, and the scandal that nearly sent her pastor-father to prison, which she has never publicly commented on before.

Her refreshing and contemplative voice is drawing in audiences of men and women, both believers and non-believers, and inviting deeper conversation within and between those in the church and whom it seeks to reach. She is a wife and mother of three, an advocate for Compassion International, a coordinator for the Proverbs 31 20-something ministry division, and she currently resides North Carolina.

Previous literary works include: The 7 Hardest Things God Asks a Woman to Do and Behind Those Eyes: What's Really Going on Inside the Souls of Women.  Lisa has written for Catalyst, Michael Hyatt, Women of Faith, and numerous other publications.

For more about Lisa visit her website: http://lisawhittle.com

More about {w}hole:
How to get past whatever’s holding you back—and start living a whole new story


We all have holes in our lives—those things we lament about ourselves. Those things we allow to define us in ways we don’t like. Those things that keep us from living the life God wants for us.

But what if you discovered that the holes in your life are really the things that will ultimately make you . . . well, whole?

Author and communicator Lisa Whittle knows this all too well. When her world was rocked to the core in a very public way, her faith and whole reason for living were challenged like never before. In that moment, Lisa was confronted by the holes in her spiritual life. And what she learned not only changed her life, but could bring great possibilities to yours.

In Whole, Lisa calls you to take an honest look at your holes, discover how to fill them with God’s presence, and get to a real and vibrant place of wholeness instead. In her trademark bold, compassionate, and relatable voice, Lisa takes you on a transformational journey of understanding who you really are . . . and what you were born to be and do.

Insider's Peek

Now that I just finished my 4th Amish novel, I started working on Love Finds You in Glacier Bay, Alaska. I'm co-writing it with my friend Ocieanna Fleiss and we just traveled up to Glacier Bay last month for research! You can find photos here. This is the snippet so far, but since it's still a work-in-progress things might change. I just thought you--my friends--would want the inside scoop!

Description:

Ginny Marshall is on the verge of having her dreams realized. She's one signature away from signing a major recording contract and she's peaked the interest of Danny Kingston, her agent and one of the most influential men in pop music. Yet something deep inside tells her not to sign. Knowing she needs someone to talk to—someone who'd be interested in her best interest and not just in her notoriety, she travels to Glacier Bay, Alaska to find her ex-fiance Brett Miller.


As soon as Ginny is shuttled to Glacier Bay she has a good feeling about coming. The tidewater glaciers, snow-capped mountain ranges, ocean coastlines, deep fjords, and freshwater rivers and lakes reconnect her with God in a way she hadn't experienced in a while. She finds her way to the address Brett had given her, but discovers he isn't home. A neighbor gives Ginny directions to Brett's grandmother's cabin, surely Granny M. will know where he is.


Granny M. welcomes Ginny with open arms. “So, you're the Ginny I've heard so much about.” Granny M. starts telling Ginny about some letters, when Ginny interrupts and asks where Brett is. Unfortunately he's on a week long kayaking trip with is father and brother. Ginny just missed him.


Staying with Granny M., Ginny reads the letters sent from Glacier Bay, Alaska Territory, 1929. The first letter is from a Mr. Claiborn Maibe asking his friend Rev. Hal Wakeland to choose a bride for him—someone of pleasing companionship and a fine moral conduct who will be a good mother to Clairborne's two children. Ginny is intrigued. Would a man honestly send for a wife and marry the woman who arrived ... without question?


Through the letters—and the new friends she meets at Glacier Bay—Ginny remembers what a relationship with God is all about. She also discovers what—and who—her heart desires most. 

How does that sound to you, friends?!

Winners announced from Tricia Goyer's Along Wooded Paths Facebook Party and Live Author Chat!

First of all - thank you all so much for coming. What fun. If you're looking for the answers to the trivia contest - those are below. :)

Also - be sure to visit the contest page of my website to find out all about the new Patchwork of Hope Contest!

Here is the list of every one who won something at the party tonight:

Congratulations to Mindy Brenner! You've won a copy of Along Wooded Paths! Email your mailing address to amy@litfusegroup.com!

Congratulations to Carri Schutter! You've won a copy of Along Wooded Paths! Email your mailing address to amy@litfusegroup.com!

Congratulations to Karla Hanns! You've won an Advanced Reader Copy of Book Three, Beyond Hope's Valley. Email your mailing address to amy@litfusegroup.com!

Congratulations to Melanie Schmenaski! You've won a copy of Along Wooded Paths! Email your mailing address to amy@litfusegroup.com!

Congratulations to Kim Amaral! You've won a copy of Along Wooded Paths! Email your mailing address to amy@litfusegroup.com!

Congratulations to Kristine Morgan! You've won a copy of Along Wooded Paths! Email your mailing address to amy@litfusegroup.com!

Congratulations to Kym! You've won an Advanced Reader Copy of Book Three, Beyond Hope's Valley. Email your mailing address to amy@litfusegroup.com!

Congratulations to Kristine Morgan! You've won the book club prize pack. You'll receive 10 copies of either Beside Still Waters or Along Wooded Paths for your book club or small group. Email your mailing address and choice to amy@litfusegroup.com!

Congrats to all the winners - please email your mailing address to amy@litfusegroup.com!

TRIVIA QUESTIONS - ANSWERED!


1. Only women write Amish circle letters.

False.

A circle letter is formed by a group of people—both men and women. Each person adds a letter to a pack of letters that goes around and around a circle of around a dozen people, each adding his own and sending it on. There is also the Ohio-to-Ontario ‘Andy Mast Circle Letter’–consisting of 14 Amish with the same name. Reference: http://amishamerica.com/amish_folks_lik/

2. Amish speak English and Pennsylvania Dutch only.

False.

They speak English at school, Pennsylvania Dutch (a dialect of German) at home, and High German when worshipping.

3. The Amish have settled in 24 states.

True.

The Amish have settled in as many as twenty-four states, Canada, and Central America, though about 80% are located in Pennsylvania, Ohio and Indiana.

4. The largest Amish settlement is in Ohio.
True.

The greatest concentration of Amish is in Holmes County and adjoining counties in northeast Ohio, about 100 miles from Pittsburgh.

5. The Old Order Amish are the most conservative

False.

The Old Order Amish are the largest group and the Swartzentruber Amish, an offshoot of the Old Order, are the most conservative.

BONUS Super Duper Trivia Questions 

1 What are the first names of all the people living in Tricia's house.
(John, Tricia, Dolores, Leslie, Nathan, Alyssa)

2 What was Tricia's first book in print
(Mealtime Moments)

Will I SEE you tonight?

I'm super excited about Facebook Party and Live Author Chat Webcast event tonight (10/18). I do hope you can join me.

First we'll be hanging out on Facebook for a meet and greet - I'll be hosting a fun trivia contest, sharing the story behind Along Wooded Paths and a sneak peek at Book Three, Beyond Hope's Valley, and giving away tons of fun stuff.

Then we'll head over to my website where I've got a great new Web Cast feature. You'll be able to sign in to the event and chat with me live. There will be two ways to chat - type a question and send it in OR if you have a camera - you can ask your question live in a face-to-face chat! Can't wait.

Just Click this icon for all the info! Email the team at Litfuse with any questions!

Would you like to be an influencer for my new books?

Hello Friends,

Many of you have asked about being an influencer for my books. Here are some ways YOU can influence the success of these books. I’m convinced that word of mouth is what sells novels, so I’m excited about your chatter!

Some creative ideas:

Post a review on Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com, Shelfari.com, Goodreads.com, Epinions.com, Libarything.com, and/or CBD.com.

Post your thoughts about the book on your blog, Facebook, or Twitter feed. Offer a giveaway to your online community. (If you need a book for a giveaway contact amy@triciagoyer.com)

Make influencing into a cool, giving game. Give the book to someone who’d like it, then say, “If you like it, would you be willing to buy another copy to pass onto a friend?” If your friend doesn’t like it, he/she can return the book to you and you can lend/give it again.

Start a book-sharing revolution. Register your book at www.bookcrossing.com. And then leave it somewhere! Bookcrossing will track its adventures.

Recommend the book to your local book club. I'm available to do a LIVE video chat with your group. Find out the information here: http://www.triciagoyer.com/videochats.html

Ask your local bookstore or library to stock the book.

Donate your book to a local prison ministry or women’s shelter.

Share the book trailer. You can watch my trailers and videos: http://www.triciagoyer.com/media.html

Give your book to a person of influence (pastor, ministry leader, counselor, radio host).

Thank you for your willingness reading my books and, being instrumental in its ministry success.

I appreciate you!
Tricia Goyer

P.S. For a complete listing of all my books go to: www.triciagoyer.com … I have over 30 books in print now!

Pick up the Beside Still Waters eBook for ONLY $3.99!

Have you heard? The first book in the Big Sky series, Beside Still Waters, is ONLY $3.99 (eBook version only)! It will be available from 10/11-10/17. Don't miss this great opportunity to see how it all began for Marianna.

Read what the reviewers are about Along Wooded Paths here.

AND SAVE THE DATE!

Join me on October 18th at 5:00 PM PST (6:00 MST, 7:00 CST, 8:00 EST) at my Facebook Author Page. I'll be giving away prizes and a sneak peak at the next book in the Big Sky series. Then during the second half of the party I'll be hosting a LIVE AUTHOR CHAT on my website and announcing something BIG! CLICK the button (below) to RSVP for the party - then go here to sign up for the Live Author Chat.

More about Along Wooded Paths:

Although proud of living apart from the world, Marianna Sommer's newly relocated Amish family is discovering that life in the remote mountains of Montana requires working together with the Englisch.

As Marianna pours her life into helping those around her-and receiving their help-her heart further considers two directions. She's torn between the Amish man from Indiana whom she has long planned on marrying and the friendly Englischer who models a close walk with God like she’s never seen before.

Who should have young Marianna's heart? What is God asking of her through ongoing family struggles and this romantic and spiritual tension? The answer is found along the wooded paths.

Order this Book

Read an Excerpt

Thursday on Living Inspired: Hear the real life story behind Along Wooded Paths!

To listen to the interview: go here and click on the player in the upper right corner of the screen. Thursday at 3:00 pm Central.


This week on Living Inspired hear the true story behing my Amish Big Sky series. Don't miss the encore presentation of my interview with my dear friends Ora Jay and Irene Eash. This three book series (Along Wooded Paths and Beside Still Waters are available now) is loosely based on events from the Eash's lives. Be sure to tune in to Thursday's show - we talk about the stories behind the story, the Amish community in Montana, and their Amish heritage.

I'll be giving away a few copies of Along Wooded Paths, so be sure to leave a comment {HERE} for a chance to win one. Winner will be notified next week via email.

And be sure to catch Suzanne Woods Fisher's podcast interview with me and the Eash's on her show, Amish Wisdom. She interviewed all of us about the book, what it was like working together, and what we learned in the process.


About Along Wooded Paths: Although proud of living apart from the world, Marianna Sommer's newly relocated Amish family is discovering that life in the remote mountains of Montana requires working together with the Englisch.

As Marianna pours her life into helping those around her-and receiving their help-her heart further considers two directions. She's torn between the Amish man from Indiana whom she has long planned on marrying and the friendly Englischer who models a close walk with God like she’s never seen before.

Who should have young Marianna's heart? What is God asking of her through ongoing family struggles and this romantic and spiritual tension? The answer is found along the wooded paths.

About Beside Still Waters: Marianna Sommer believes she knows where her life is headed. Nineteen years old and Amish, her plan is to get baptized into the church, marry Aaron Zook, and live in the only community she's ever known.

When Marianna's family moves from Indiana to Montana she discovers life and faith will never be the same. As she builds an easy friendship with local guy, Ben Stone, Ben not only draws her heart, he also gets her thinking about what loving God and living in community is all about.

As Marianna struggles to find "home", she also encounters God in intimate ways.

Meet the Eash's:

THEN:

NOW:

My prayer and encouragement for my fellow Christian writers:

Ephesians 6:13
Be prepared. You're up against far more than you can handle on your own. Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued, so that when it's all over but the shouting you'll still be on your feet. Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation are more than words. Learn how to apply them. You'll need them throughout your life. God's Word is an indispensable weapon. In the same way, prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other's spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out.

What does homeschooling look like?

Good question! For every season it looks different.

Homeschooling changes as kids grow. Here is how our homeschooling world changed over time:

Elmo
Board books
Play food
Cherrios
Playdough
Magnetic Letters
Wooden Blocks
Storybooks
Crayons
Counting
Safety Scissors
Legos
Chores
Bible Stories
Nature Walks
Library Trips
Addition Flash Cards
Puzzles
Worksheets
Skits
Zoo Visits
First Readers
Blanket forts
Making Mac n Cheese
Museum Visits
Chapter Books
Science Videos
Music Lessons
Glue Sticks
Craft Foam
Crochet hooks
Unit Studies
Typing Games
Missionary Biographies
Scripture Memory
Chapter Books
C.S. Lewis
Rocket Ships
Bible Study
Paints and Paper
Volunteering
Multiplication Tables
Timelines
Science projects
Baseball
Menu Planning
Gardening
Co-Op
Babystiting
Theater
Soccer
On-line Classes
Creative Writing
Mission Trips
Sign Language
Internships
Travel
Algebra
Government Study
College Classes
Graduation

As you can see, Homeschooling has changed over time. I've graduated two kids from homeschool and my third is a high school Senior ... but with a 1-year-old we're starting on the same path again.

Elmo
Board books
Play food
Cherrios
Playdough
Magnetic Letters
Wooden Blocks ...

You get the picture!

Went I think back over my 17 years of homeschooling joys I don't think about my favorite curriculum or my to-do lists. I think about my children growing and changing and us enjoying learning together.

My adult kids love to learn, and I think that's the greatest gift I gave them as a homeschooling mom.

Homeschooling isn't about what you "do." It's about the path of learning to love life ... and living a life that loves learning!! If you do that you can succeed as a homeschooling parent!

Along Wooded Paths - Save the Date!

I'm celebrating the release of Along Wooded Paths with a Fabulous Facebook Party and Live Author Chat! This is the second book in my Amish Big Sky series with B&H. Along Wooded Paths picks up where Beside Still Waters left off and follows Marianna Sommers as her heart contemplates two directions.

Read what the reviewers are saying here.

So join me on October 18th at 5:00 PM PST (6:00 MST, 7:00 CST, 8:00 EST) at my Facebook Author Page. I'll be giving away prizes and a sneak peak at the next book in the Big Sky series. Then during the second half of the party I'll be hosting a LIVE AUTHOR CHAT on my website and announcing something BIG! CLICK the button (below) to RSVP for the party - then go here to sign up for the Live Author Chat.

More about Along Wooded Paths:

Although proud of living apart from the world, Marianna Sommer's newly relocated Amish family is discovering that life in the remote mountains of Montana requires working together with the Englisch.

As Marianna pours her life into helping those around her-and receiving their help-her heart further considers two directions. She's torn between the Amish man from Indiana whom she has long planned on marrying and the friendly Englischer who models a close walk with God like she’s never seen before.

Who should have young Marianna's heart? What is God asking of her through ongoing family struggles and this romantic and spiritual tension? The answer is found along the wooded paths.

Order this Book

Read an Excerpt

Thursday on Living Inspired: Patricia Mauro & Rosslyn Elliott

To listen to the interview: go here and click on the player in the upper right corner of the screen. Thursday at 3:00 pm Central.


Don't miss my guests on Thursday's Living Inspired. The first half hour we'll hear from Patricia Miller Mauro who will share her truly inspiring, deeply personal story of perseverance in the face of unimaginable hardships. She chronicled her journey in her recently released, Safe From the Past. Then during the second half of the show we'll meet debut author Rosslyn Elliott. Rosslyn has arrived on the scene with critical acclaim and quickly won over historical fiction readers with, Fairer Than Morning. Don't miss this week's show.

For a chance to win a copy of both author's books, leave a comment {HERE}. Winner's will be notified next week via email.


More about Patricia: Patricia worked in New York City's financial district for thirteen years in the field ofsecurities operations. At that time, she went on to obtain an MBA from New York University. She and her husband moved to Dallas, TX in 2001 where they are raising their two children.

During her time in NY, Patricia wrote an article entitled "A Tribute To My Mother" which was published in "The Recovery Journal" in 1999. Her book is a continuation of that tribute and serves to spread the message to those in similar situations that good news is on its way to children considering a higher education but who are afraid to dream. For more information please visit, www.patriciamaurobooks.com.  

More about Safe From the Past: A kidnapping, the divorce of her parents, the loss of her father, temporary abandonment and extreme poverty are just some of the issues the author dealt with as a young child.


Her mother finally tells her she must go to college so she can break out of this cycle of poverty and hopelessness. But how can she when she has no money and absolutely no confidence or self esteem?
Read this true story to discover what hope, faith and determination can do to change a life. A truly inspiring, deeply personal tale of perseverance in the face of unimaginable hardships, Safe from the Past makes clear the restorative power of an education.

Told in an open, honest voice with the deepest sincerity, the author’s life story serves as a rousing inspiration to those with the desire to create a better life than the one they are currently living. No matter how helpless you feel, everyone has the power to shape their own life.

More about Rosslyn: As the child of a career military man, Rosslyn Elliott lived in four states and two foreign countries before she graduated from high school. She attended Yale University, where she earned her BA in English and Theater Studies. After five years working first in corporate New York City, then as a schoolteacher, she entered the Ph.D. program in English at Emory University and finished her dissertation in 2006.

Her study of American literature spurred her to pursue her lifelong dream of writing fiction.

Rosslyn lives with her husband and daughter in the southwestern United States.

Visit www.rosslynelliott.com for more information.


More about Fairer Than Morning: Ann dreams of a marriage proposal from her poetic suitor, Eli-until Will Hanby shows her that nobility is more than fine words.

Ann travels to Pittsburgh, accompanying her father on business. There she meets Will Hanby, a saddle-maker's apprentice. Will has spent years eking out an existence under a cruel master and his spirit is nearly broken. But Ann's compassion lights a long-dark part of his soul. Through his encounters with Ann's father, a master saddler, Will discovers new hope and courage in the midst of tremendous adversity.

When the Millers must return to Ohio and their ministry there, Will resolves to find them, at any cost. If Will can make it back to Ann, will she be waiting?

Secrets from the Writer's Chair: I wrote my first novel but I'm having a hard time editing it.

Here is a question from a friend that I received by email. I thought her answer would be helpful to your aspiring writers out there. Cheryl* asked:

I wrote my first novel but I'm having a hard time editing it. I mean, I wrote it the way I like it, hehe. I have been through the book several times but trying read and learn how to edit is hard for me. Did you self-edit your first books? I'm thinking about saving up so I can have someone do it for me? What do you think of that. Did you self-edit your first books? How long does it usually take to edit a book? Don't get me wrong--I don't mind working hard and doing things myself--I just feel that I will only be messing up and making things sound worse.

These are great questions, Cheryl!

Editing is hard, but really it's not so much getting one manuscript ready to be published. It's about understanding the writing world. To have a manuscript ready for publication means you need to be a writing professional. You need to know the difference between passive and active sentences, you need to know about dialogue, narration, point-of-view, theme, direct thoughts and tons more. You also need to understand the business side of writing. You need to know about conferences, publishers, professional writers and editors, the CBA and ABA--it's a ton of stuff. If you want to become a successful published author, it's just like studying to understand any other business. The difference is that in this business a college degree isn't necessary. Yes, it does help a lot if you go to college and get a Creative Writing degree. Your professors would probably help you with a lot of these things, but that's not totally necessary.

There's a good side to that and a bad side to not needed a degree. The good side is that someone like me (who only has a high school diploma and some college classes) can become a successfully published author with a lot of initiate and hard work. My "launch" into the publishing world was attending local writer's groups, and then I attended Mt. Hermon Writer's Conference nearly every year for fourteen years. After that I read magazines and books. Writer's Digest Magazine is one I highly recommend. They have a website, too, where you can read lots of articles for free. I have larger list of other resoureces I recommend below.

The bad side to that is that unlike become a doctor or a lawyer or a beautician, there is no one to test you before you go into business. Most people don't know how much they don't know about the craft and the publishing world until they get started. I started sending out articles before I read one book on writing articles and it wasn't too successful. (I got one article published in three years!) After I took a class at Mt. Hermon on article writing, and read some books on it, I started to understand why I wasn't getting published. The next year I sold over 30 articles, most to national publications.

I can't just say, "Do these three things" for a novel, or for a children's book, or articles and they you'll get published. What you really need to do is start reading a lot of articles, books, and blogs on writing and getting to know everything there is to know about the craft. Put aside your novel for a while. (Or article ideas or children's book ideas.) Instead, just gain knowledge about being a writer and what is needed in a good novel. Once you start to gain this knowledge, then going back to your manuscript will be much easier. You'll be able to see things for yourself, instead of me trying to explain things to you.

Just so you know what to expect, I've heard it said it takes about 10 years from the time you start writing (and studying fiction) before you have a published novel on the shelf. It was about 9 years for me. Getting articles published, of course, can happen a lot more quickly, but you have to be diligent about reading the books on article writing and following the steps.

So basically it's not about your one book ... it's about being a knowledgeable writer. Think of it this way, if you want to get your book published then it needs to be great to get the notice of an acquisitions editor. And when he or she takes it to publishing committee they will be comparing it to other books that they are interested in publishing. Some of those projects may be from new writers like you. Others may be from writers who already have books published. They're not only going to just look at how much they like that one book, but they're going to think long-term. "Who is this person? Is she just a one-hit wonder? Can she produce another book in a short amount of time? Is she knowledgable about the industry? Is she going to be easy to work with? Can she work at a professional level? Can she be interviewed by the press and sound knowledgable? Can she represent our company well?"

They are asking these questions because the publishing company will invest $50,000 - $100,000 in your book if they decide to publish it. As a new author you may only get around $5,000 as an advance (which is an advance on your future sales), but they invest in their editors, their marketing, in the cover, in the printing, in the salesmen, in the advertising, etc. Are you knowledgable enough about writing and the publishing world for someone to put that type of investment into you?

So that's a REALLY long way to answer your question, but yes, I self-edit all my books. They need to be in GREAT condition when I send them into my publishing house. If they weren't I wouldn't get another contract. Once they are at the publishing house there are additional editors who go over my manuscripts, but I have to turn in a great book to start.

I don't recommend hiring anyone to do your editing for you because you really need to understand it all. I haven't read your manuscript but my guess is that in addition to just editing of the sentences and paragraphs there will need to be editing of the chapters, the theme, the conflict, etc. There usually ALWAYS is in first novels.

Because I'm a professional writer now (after A TON OF WORK and study) I know a lot of the things I need to do as I write, so there is less time in editing. I know what works and what doesn't as I write, but after I write a chapter I go over it 4-5 times to make sure it works, sounds great, and is edited to the best of my ability. After my manuscript is sent in to the publisher I then work with an in-house editor for at least another month. (You don't need to worry about that part now. All you need to do is get your book as great as it can be.)

Here's more:

Here is a link to my "Tips for New Writers" on my website.
There is a large list of books and blogs and things to do.

Here are a few more resources that I'll be putting up on my website soon!

Lyn Cote, Strong Women, Brave Stories
http://www.LynCote.net
A current listing of Christian fiction publishers and submission guidelines and two brochures: one on avoiding publishing scams and one on the three ways to publish: traditional, POD and ebook

Jill Williamson, Helping Young Writers Thrive
www.TeenageAuthors.com
There are plenty of websites out there with information to help adult writers, but this one is just for teens.

Mary DeMuth
http://www.thewritingspa.com
editorial and mentoring services

Susan May Warren
www.mybooktherapy.com
Award-winning novelist teaches on writing and offers editing and critique. Also, offers writer's retreats.

Randy Ingermanson "the Snowflake Guy", America's Mad Professor of Fiction Writing
http://www.AdvancedFictionWriting.com
Award-winning novelist Randy Ingermanson teaches on the art of writing fiction, getting it published, and helping your publisher market your work.

Nancy Moser, historical and contemporary fiction
www.nancymoser.com
On my Writing Tips page I otips on Weaving Characters Together, How Christian Fiction Works, and Inspirational Verses for Writers.

Nancy Moser, historical fiction
http://footnotesfromhistory.blogspot.com/
Writers and readers of historical fiction will find interesting tidbits discovered during my writing research

Links to resources:
The 11 Secrets of Getting Published

Fiction proposal tutorial

Nonfiction proposal tutorial

Writing Fiction for Dummies

On Adoption...

 With the addition to Alyssa to our family, adoption is close to my heart. When I tell people she's adopted they are usually surprised because she looks just like our family. (And is starting to act like us!) They also want to know about her birth mom. We just say she's an amazing woman who gave us a great gift. No one needs to know all the details.

I've had people ask if it's an open adoption. Yes.

Some have said they would hide the truth and not tell her she was adopted. Personally, I don't agree with that idea. I know Alyssa will benefit from knowing her birth mom and birth sister. We are a loving family unit and when we adopted Alyssa it didn't just grow by one, but by three.

Recently I had Gayle Roper on my radio show, and we talked about the adoption of her (now grown) sons. You'll want to listen to the whole program here, but here is a glimpse into our discussion.

Tell me about this important event in your life and how did it affect you?

Gayle: Adopting our kids was one of our defining moments as a family. We got Chip when he was 2 months old and Jeff when he was 4 months old. It was an adoption through our county agency, and it made us a family in the truest sense.

Meeting Chip’s biological parents has been quite an interesting situation too. “I met my birth father and mother,” Chip said about four year sago. “I’d like you to have them to dinner.” So we did. Very nice people. Very nice evening.

What was the saddest moment?

Gayle: Perhaps the saddest moment was realizing we’d never have any biological kids due to my being surgically sterile (endometriosis and cancer). I almost write never have any kids of our own, but Chip and Jeff are our own as surely as if they’d been born to us.

What was the happiest moment?

Gayle: There are multiple happy moments through the years, but getting the kids was at the tops of the list. Bringing these little guys home was very special.

Also happy was the meeting of Richard and Barbara, knowing they were going to have the chance to know Chip and his family.

How did you experience God during this event?

Gayle: We had always told our boys that when they were 18 we would help them find their birth families if this is what they wanted to do. We determined never to put ourselves in competition with these people. Everyone loses that way. And we owed our family to these unknown people.

We knew as believers that God’s love stretches to include the world. It stretched to caring enough for us to send Jesus to die for us. The least our love could do was expand to allow our kids to care for others besides us. Love is like that: it grows without lessening the affection that’s already there.

I acknowledge that Chip is fortunate in that his parents were a good find. Not all situations are this good. Some kids find family that is disappointing or hurtful. Of course he wasn’t looking; it came to him. And he wasn’t expecting these people to fill all the holes in his life. That’s putting too much expectation on anyone. Only the Lord can fill the holes in us.

What hope or encouragement do you have for others who may be facing the same situation?

Gayle: Everyone in the adoption triangle is hurting in some way. They wouldn’t be involved in adoption if they weren’t. It’s important to acknowledge this fact.

It’s also important to acknowledge that finding a birth family or a child given up for adoption will not fix all problems. Questions may be answered—or not. You may find people to love—or not. You may find a place you belong—or not. You may find new worries or problems—or not.

Thank you, Gayle! It's wonderful how God has blessed your family through adoption. 

You can listen to the rest of Gayle's story—and hear about her new novel!--here.

How do you spend time with God

I gave some good advice on having personal quiet time here, but the truth is that doesn't always work.

There are days I don't wake up before everyone else.
There are days when I do sit down to "just write one email" and end up sidetracked and distracted.
There are days I have to run out the door early, or I'm traveling, or the baby wakes up in a cranky mood.

Should I just forget time with God?

No.

I pray as I shower.
I pray as I drive.
I read Scripture verses as I cook dinner.
I look up an inspirational blog.
I pray (desperately) when the baby is still in a cranky mood at noon.
I sit down with my Bible, journal, and Bible Study book while my little one watches Clifford the Dog (which is what I'm doing THIS very moment).

I'm in love and I want to spend time with my Savior.

When John and I were dating I wanted to spend every free moment with Him. That's how I feel about God. I look for ways to spend time with Him ... in quiet mornings and all through the day.

This is what Henry Blackaby has to say about that:

You will learn much about God, His Word, His purposes, and His ways as you spend time with Him. You will come to know Him during the day as you experience Him working in and through your life. Learning about Him is not, however, why you should want to have a quiet time with Him. The more you know Him and experience His unrelenting love, the more you will love him ... You will want time alone with God because you love Him and enjoy His fellowship. p. 50 Experiencing God workbook

When, where, how do you spend time with God?

How My Quiet Time Works

Years ago I made it my quiet-time goal to get to know Jesus better. I thought this meant I'd be focusing on the Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. But the more I started praying and digging into God's Word, He reminded me again that the WHOLE BIBLE is about Christ. Jesus was there from Genesis 1 as The Word, and His message is on every page. The study of Christ is the best study because it reminds me I just don't need to learn about Him, He is with me every moment. Our relationship continues to grow as I spend time with Him!

When I first started having daily quiet time I thought the goal was to learn the most about God as I could. I read commentaries and studied books. Then one day I felt God whispering to my heart, "You know ABOUT Me, but take a moment and just love me. I'm right here." I still study and dig deep, but I also make sure to just spend time in Jesus' presence.

As a mom with kids-at-home nearly every day for the last 22 years, finding "quiet" time has been the hardest part. I've solved this by waking up before anyone else. Currently, with my husband, a college student, a teenager, my grandma, and a 1-year-old that's the ONLY time it's quiet. In addition to sitting down with my Bible and journal, sometimes I read while I'm on my recumbent bicycle. I'll read Scriptures and then close my eyes and pray for various concerns.

Other times, I sit on my couch with my Bible, a journal, and a few devotional books. My all time favorite "study" book is Experiencing God by Henry Blackaby. (You can read about how Experiencing God changed my writing life here: http://www.triciagoyer.com/onwriting.html). I usually write in my journal what God is speaking to my heart, or I write out my prayer requests. It's great to look back over old journals and see how God answered prayers!

For me, it ONLY works if I grab my Bible as soon as I'm awake. If I "just send one email" or "throw in a load of laundry" I usually get distracted and off course. When I sit down I pray and ask God to open my mind and my heart. I ask Him to lead me to the Bible passage He has for me. I also don't try to rush through just to get it done. God's revelations don't come in perfect, 10-minute time slots.

The result? I grow closer to God each day and He gives me the peace and strength that I need for every moment.