The girls and I were having a discussion around the table on Christmas night, and we started listing our all time very favorite things. I wasn't able to put mine in any priority order, but these are my favorites. What are yours?
Sharpie markers
Post-it note pads
Lindt Truffles (if you haven't tried these you should ...they are awesome!)
my new copy of the Oxford Dictionary & Thesaurus combination
Pay-at-the-pump
Potatoes (fried, chips, french fries, baked, scalloped, mashed...mmmmmm)
Peppermint Ice Cream
Big, old trees
Two-sided tape
hardware stores
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
Monday, December 17, 2007
Back To Original Programming
I realized that I'm mixing too many things on my blog, so I'm going back to the original intent...writing about ways I see God working in our lives. If you are interested in checking out the latest and greatest Christian fiction (and a few non-fiction) books, please go to http://hisreadinglist.blogspot.com.
I will be posting at least one new book per week there, and often I'll have free books to give away!
I will be posting at least one new book per week there, and often I'll have free books to give away!
Thursday, December 13, 2007
What Lies Within
This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing What Lies Within by Karen Ball (published by Multnomah Fiction ,November 20, 2007)
This book is actually the third in a series, so I was a little hesitant to read it before I'd finished the other two. It really didn't matter! I tried to guess what the first two books might have been about, but there really wasn't anything that wasn't well explained in the book so I didn't feel like I missed anything.
The prelude to this book catches your attention immediately, and I had a hard time putting it down until I finished. The mystery and intrigue in the book keep you wondering who the bad guy really is. It is interesting to see some of the ins and outs of the construction business, especially seen from the perspective of a female owner in a male-dominated world.
The book successfully links Marines, gang leaders, construction workers, and clergy in a way that gives you insight into each of these worlds. I can't wait to read the first two books. I'd definitely put this on in my 'must read' column.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Karen Ball , bestselling novelist, is also the editor behind several of today's bestselling Christian novels. Her love for words was passed down through her father and grandfather - both pastors who shared God's truth through sermons and storytelling. Blending humor, poignancy, and honesty, Karen's writing style is a powerful force for revealing God's truth. She lives in Oregon with her husband, Don, and their "kids," Bodhan, a mischief-making Siberian husky, and Dakota, an Aussie-terrier mix who should have been named "Destructo."
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Nothing’s going to stop Kyla…
until the ground crumbles beneath her feet.
Kyla Justice has arrived. Her company, Justice Construction, is one of the most critically acclaimed, commercially successful companies in the Pacific Northwest. And yet, something is missing. Not until she’s called on to build a center for inner-city kids does she realize what it is: her sense of purpose. Now nothing can stop her, not the low budget, not supply problems, not gang opposition, not her boyfriend’s suggestion that she sell her business and marry him–and most especially not that disagreeable Rafael Murphy.
Rafe Murphy understands battle. Wounded in action, this Force Recon Marine carries the scars–and the nightmares–to prove it. Though he can’t fight overseas any longer, he’s found his place as a warrior in the civilian world. So he soldiers on, trusting that one of these days, God will reveal to him why Rafe survived the ambush in Iraq. That day has arrived.
Kyla and Rafe both discover that determination alone won’t carry them through danger and challenges. When gang violence threatens their very foundations, there’s only one way to survive: rely on each other, be real–and surrender to God. In other words, risk everything…
You can get a copy of the book here!
Check out more of Karen's books or contact her at her website.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
A Shadow of Treason
As I mentioned a couple of days ago, I have a new favorite author, Tricia Goyer. I just finished reading book two of her Chronicles of the Spanish Civil War series, A Shadow of Treason. This book is fabulous! Throughout the series, Tricia has done a ton of research. Maybe one of the reasons I like this series so much is that I have been to Madrid, and her characterization of the city is very real. I even stayed in one of the hotels she talks about in the book, and she has the layout down pat.
I hadn't really remembered anything about a Spanish Civil War from school, so I wasn't sure how this would play out, but it is really a fascinating story of intrigue, action, and romance. Tricia's characters are very life-like, her style keeps you on the edge of your seat, and the story line makes you forget where you are. I highly recommend it! Read on for a synopsis of the book, an interview with Tricia, and more info on Tricia and her books.
If you would like to win a copy of A Shadow of Treason, leave a comment and I'll draw a name early next week. Please be sure to leave a way for me to contact you or I won't be able to let you know that you won.
Book 2 in the Chronicles of the Spanish Civil War series
Q and A with Tricia!
Q:
A Shadow of Treason follows A Valley of Betrayal. This is the first time you've written books as a series instead of stand alone. Which way do you like better?
A: I love writing in series. It was great to continue with the same characters. In my stand-alone books I fell in love with these people and then I had to say good-bye after one book. It was wonderful to be able to continue on.
Q: In A Shadow of Treason Sophie must return to the person who betrayed her in an effort to help the Spanish people. It makes the book hard to put down because the reader has to know how Sophie's heart will deal with it. Why did you decide to make this an element of the book?
A: There are very few of us who go through life without giving away a part of our hearts to someone who didn't deserve it. Even though Sophie had the best intentions, she gave away her heart and she was hurt-not only that she must revisit those emotions.
I wanted to include this element-to delve into the topic that emotions are sometimes as big of a trap as any physical cage. Emotions are real and they guide us -- even when we don't want to admit it. Poor Sophie, not only does she have to deal with a war around her -- she also has to deal with a war within herself. It's something I've battled, and mostly likely others have too.
Q: There is an interesting element that arises in this book and that is Spanish gold. I know you can't tell us what happens in this book, but can you give us a brief history of this gold?
A: Sure. When I was researching I came upon something interesting. The Spaniards, as we know, had taken much Aztec and Inca gold during the time of the conquistadors. Well, at the start of The Spanish Civil War much of this gold was still held in Madrid . In fact Spain had the fourth largest gold reserves in the world at that time. The Republican government was afraid Franco would take the city and the gold. They had to get it out of Madrid and this included transporting priceless artifacts. The element of gold does make its way into my story. It was great to include this little-known (and true!) element into my story.
Q: Another historical fact I learned about was the Nazi involvement during this time. Not only were the Germans active in Spain , but they had spy networks busy around the world. How did you find out about this?
A: I love reading tons of research books. Usually I find one little element that I dig out and turn into a plot line. This is what happened with my plot-line for the Nazi pilot, Ritter. I dug up this bit of research of Nazi involvement in Spain -- and the United States -- because a lot of people aren't aware of the Nazi involvement prior to WWII. The truth is they were busy at work getting the land, information, and resources they needed far before they threatened the nations around them. The Germans knew what they wanted and how to get it. And most of the time they succeeded!
Q: A Shadow of Treason is Book Two. When will Book Three be out? Can you give us a hint of how the story continues?
A: Book Three is A Whisper of Freedom. It will be out February 2008. The characters that we love are all still in the midst of danger at the end of Book Two. Book Three continues their stories as we follow their journeys in -- and (for a few) out -- of Spain . It's an exciting conclusion to the series!
Q: Wow, so we have a least one more fiction book to look forward to in the near future. Are you working on any non-fiction?
A: Yes, I have two non-fiction books that will be out the early part of 2008. Generation NeXt Marriage is a marriage book for today's couples. It talks about our marriage role models, our struggles, and what we're doing right as a generation. It also gives advice for holding it together.
I've also been privileged to work on the teen edition of Max Lucado's book 3:16. It was a great project to work on. What an honor!
Tricia's Bio
Tricia Goyer has published over 300 articles for national publications such as Today's Christian Woman, Guideposts for Kids, and Focus on the Family, and is the co-author of Meal Time Moments (Focus on the Family). She has led numerous Bible Studies, and her study notes appear in the Women of Faith Study Bible (Zondervan).
She has written seven novels for Moody Publishing:
From Dust and Ashes (2003)
Night Song (2004)
Dawn of a Thousand Nights (2005);
Arms of Deliverance (2006)
A Valley of Betrayal (2007)
A Shadow of Treason (Fall 2007)
A Whisper of Freedom (February 2008)
Night Song was awarded American Christian Fiction Writer's 2005 Book of the Year for Best Long Historical. Dawn of a Thousand Nights won the same award in 2006.
Tricia has also written Life Interrupted: The Scoop on Being a Young Mom (Zondervan, 2004), 10 Minutes to Showtime (Thomas Nelson, 2004), and Generation NeXt Parenting (Multnomah, 2006). Life Interrupted was a 2005 Gold Medallion finalist in the Youth Category.
Also, coming out in the next year are: My Life, Unscripted (Thomas Nelson, 2007), Generation NeXt Marriage (Multnomah, Spring 2008), and 3:16-the teen version of the a book by Max Lucado (Thomas Nelson, Spring 2008).
Tricia and her husband John live with their three children in Kalispell , Montana . Tricia's grandmother also lives with them, and Tricia volunteers mentoring teen moms and leading children's church. Although Tricia doesn't live on a farm, she can hit one with a rock by standing on her back porch and giving it a good throw.
Important Links!
First Chapter
Amazon Link
Book 1, A Valley of Betrayal
http://www.amazon.com/Valley-Betrayal-Chronicles-Spanish-Civil/dp/0802467679/
Tricia's Website
Tricia's blogs:
http://triciagoyer.blogspot.com
http://genxparents.blogspot.com
http://mywritingmentor.blogspot.com
http://www.myccm.org/triciagoyer
http://www.shoutlife.com/triciagoyer
I hadn't really remembered anything about a Spanish Civil War from school, so I wasn't sure how this would play out, but it is really a fascinating story of intrigue, action, and romance. Tricia's characters are very life-like, her style keeps you on the edge of your seat, and the story line makes you forget where you are. I highly recommend it! Read on for a synopsis of the book, an interview with Tricia, and more info on Tricia and her books.
If you would like to win a copy of A Shadow of Treason, leave a comment and I'll draw a name early next week. Please be sure to leave a way for me to contact you or I won't be able to let you know that you won.
Book 2 in the Chronicles of the Spanish Civil War series
Sophie discovers that nothing is as she first imagined. When Walt, the reporter who helped her over the border, shows up again after Guernica is bombed, Sophie is given an impossible mission. She must leave behind the man she's fallen in love with and return to the person who betrayed her. Another layer of the war in Spain is revealed as Sophie is drawn into the international espionage schemes that could turn the tide of the war and help protect the soldiers from the International Brigade ... she must find a way to get a critical piece of information to Walt in time.
Q and A with Tricia!
Q:
A Shadow of Treason follows A Valley of Betrayal. This is the first time you've written books as a series instead of stand alone. Which way do you like better?
A: I love writing in series. It was great to continue with the same characters. In my stand-alone books I fell in love with these people and then I had to say good-bye after one book. It was wonderful to be able to continue on.
Q: In A Shadow of Treason Sophie must return to the person who betrayed her in an effort to help the Spanish people. It makes the book hard to put down because the reader has to know how Sophie's heart will deal with it. Why did you decide to make this an element of the book?
A: There are very few of us who go through life without giving away a part of our hearts to someone who didn't deserve it. Even though Sophie had the best intentions, she gave away her heart and she was hurt-not only that she must revisit those emotions.
I wanted to include this element-to delve into the topic that emotions are sometimes as big of a trap as any physical cage. Emotions are real and they guide us -- even when we don't want to admit it. Poor Sophie, not only does she have to deal with a war around her -- she also has to deal with a war within herself. It's something I've battled, and mostly likely others have too.
Q: There is an interesting element that arises in this book and that is Spanish gold. I know you can't tell us what happens in this book, but can you give us a brief history of this gold?
A: Sure. When I was researching I came upon something interesting. The Spaniards, as we know, had taken much Aztec and Inca gold during the time of the conquistadors. Well, at the start of The Spanish Civil War much of this gold was still held in Madrid . In fact Spain had the fourth largest gold reserves in the world at that time. The Republican government was afraid Franco would take the city and the gold. They had to get it out of Madrid and this included transporting priceless artifacts. The element of gold does make its way into my story. It was great to include this little-known (and true!) element into my story.
Q: Another historical fact I learned about was the Nazi involvement during this time. Not only were the Germans active in Spain , but they had spy networks busy around the world. How did you find out about this?
A: I love reading tons of research books. Usually I find one little element that I dig out and turn into a plot line. This is what happened with my plot-line for the Nazi pilot, Ritter. I dug up this bit of research of Nazi involvement in Spain -- and the United States -- because a lot of people aren't aware of the Nazi involvement prior to WWII. The truth is they were busy at work getting the land, information, and resources they needed far before they threatened the nations around them. The Germans knew what they wanted and how to get it. And most of the time they succeeded!
Q: A Shadow of Treason is Book Two. When will Book Three be out? Can you give us a hint of how the story continues?
A: Book Three is A Whisper of Freedom. It will be out February 2008. The characters that we love are all still in the midst of danger at the end of Book Two. Book Three continues their stories as we follow their journeys in -- and (for a few) out -- of Spain . It's an exciting conclusion to the series!
Q: Wow, so we have a least one more fiction book to look forward to in the near future. Are you working on any non-fiction?
A: Yes, I have two non-fiction books that will be out the early part of 2008. Generation NeXt Marriage is a marriage book for today's couples. It talks about our marriage role models, our struggles, and what we're doing right as a generation. It also gives advice for holding it together.
I've also been privileged to work on the teen edition of Max Lucado's book 3:16. It was a great project to work on. What an honor!
Tricia's Bio
Tricia Goyer has published over 300 articles for national publications such as Today's Christian Woman, Guideposts for Kids, and Focus on the Family, and is the co-author of Meal Time Moments (Focus on the Family). She has led numerous Bible Studies, and her study notes appear in the Women of Faith Study Bible (Zondervan).
She has written seven novels for Moody Publishing:
From Dust and Ashes (2003)
Night Song (2004)
Dawn of a Thousand Nights (2005);
Arms of Deliverance (2006)
A Valley of Betrayal (2007)
A Shadow of Treason (Fall 2007)
A Whisper of Freedom (February 2008)
Night Song was awarded American Christian Fiction Writer's 2005 Book of the Year for Best Long Historical. Dawn of a Thousand Nights won the same award in 2006.
Tricia has also written Life Interrupted: The Scoop on Being a Young Mom (Zondervan, 2004), 10 Minutes to Showtime (Thomas Nelson, 2004), and Generation NeXt Parenting (Multnomah, 2006). Life Interrupted was a 2005 Gold Medallion finalist in the Youth Category.
Also, coming out in the next year are: My Life, Unscripted (Thomas Nelson, 2007), Generation NeXt Marriage (Multnomah, Spring 2008), and 3:16-the teen version of the a book by Max Lucado (Thomas Nelson, Spring 2008).
Tricia and her husband John live with their three children in Kalispell , Montana . Tricia's grandmother also lives with them, and Tricia volunteers mentoring teen moms and leading children's church. Although Tricia doesn't live on a farm, she can hit one with a rock by standing on her back porch and giving it a good throw.
Important Links!
First Chapter
Amazon Link
Book 1, A Valley of Betrayal
http://www.amazon.com/Valley-Betrayal-Chronicles-Spanish-Civil/dp/0802467679/
Tricia's Website
Tricia's blogs:
http://triciagoyer.blogspot.com
http://genxparents.blogspot.com
http://mywritingmentor.blogspot.com
http://www.myccm.org/triciagoyer
http://www.shoutlife.com/triciagoyer
Friday, December 07, 2007
Status and Other Stuff
Well, it's been an eventful week! Sammi has been in the hospital for five nights now, and we aren't sure when this will end. They have done an MRI and spinal tap, both were normal. Her headache is still hanging in there...it's almost as persistent as she is! I'm pretty tired, so I don't know how coherent this will be, but I know some of you are looking for an update.
They have changed her medication, so hopefully we'll get a breakthrough soon. The hospital has taken on the challenge of beating this thing...Sammi will be there until the headache ends.
Children's hospital is a wonderful place, and it's full of tired parents who stand by helplessly as their children fight for their lives. I almost feel guilty that we are only dealing with a short term issue when they have such huge diseases to fight. We are on the floor with most of the cancer patients.
I've seen a lot of love and patience in the nursing staff. I was passing by a room when I noticed a nurse teaching a young girl (maybe 12) how to tie a scarf over her head to hide the baldness. They were smiling and laughing -- I really appreciate nurses who can help children focus on something positive. I also saw an adorable little girl walking in front of me with her mom. She looked like she was in the final stages of losing her hair. She looked so cute in her little hospital gown and matching bottoms, and when she turned around she had a huge smile on her face and a large red clown ball on her nose! She was giggling and laughing and she was very proud of her nose.
There is a group of doctors who dress up as clowns and visit rooms. They have a comedy routine that even made Sammi laugh (and she doesn't particularly like clowns). I missed their visit, but she chattered away about it with energy and enthusiasm that I hadn't seen during the rest of her stay. God has really blessed the staff here with a true love for their patients.
God has once again reminded me that he is in control. I'm frustrated that we won't be able to get our basement finished before Alicia comes home for the holiday, the house is a mess, and I'm way behind on Christmas shopping. But I am so blessed by this opportunity to spend a lot of time with Sammi. She's such a busy girl that we hardly get a chance to connect anymore. I'm sorry that she is in pain, but I love spending time with her.
Since light hurts her eyes, I'm also learning to just be still. I always want to be doing something...reading, writing, working. It's hard to just sit...and I'm getting better at it! I think I miss out on a lot of valuable prayer time by always being busy, so I've been able to spend a lot more time with God, too!
As the holiday season approaches, I am focusing on the people in my life instead of the trappings of the holiday. God is here every day, and I want to be thankful on a daily basis that he came to earth for us -- not just during a season. God is good, he's always in control, and he wants what is best for each of us. He is holding each one of the children in the hospital in his hands, and regardless of their earthly prognosis, he will take good care of them. We are so blessed!
They have changed her medication, so hopefully we'll get a breakthrough soon. The hospital has taken on the challenge of beating this thing...Sammi will be there until the headache ends.
Children's hospital is a wonderful place, and it's full of tired parents who stand by helplessly as their children fight for their lives. I almost feel guilty that we are only dealing with a short term issue when they have such huge diseases to fight. We are on the floor with most of the cancer patients.
I've seen a lot of love and patience in the nursing staff. I was passing by a room when I noticed a nurse teaching a young girl (maybe 12) how to tie a scarf over her head to hide the baldness. They were smiling and laughing -- I really appreciate nurses who can help children focus on something positive. I also saw an adorable little girl walking in front of me with her mom. She looked like she was in the final stages of losing her hair. She looked so cute in her little hospital gown and matching bottoms, and when she turned around she had a huge smile on her face and a large red clown ball on her nose! She was giggling and laughing and she was very proud of her nose.
There is a group of doctors who dress up as clowns and visit rooms. They have a comedy routine that even made Sammi laugh (and she doesn't particularly like clowns). I missed their visit, but she chattered away about it with energy and enthusiasm that I hadn't seen during the rest of her stay. God has really blessed the staff here with a true love for their patients.
God has once again reminded me that he is in control. I'm frustrated that we won't be able to get our basement finished before Alicia comes home for the holiday, the house is a mess, and I'm way behind on Christmas shopping. But I am so blessed by this opportunity to spend a lot of time with Sammi. She's such a busy girl that we hardly get a chance to connect anymore. I'm sorry that she is in pain, but I love spending time with her.
Since light hurts her eyes, I'm also learning to just be still. I always want to be doing something...reading, writing, working. It's hard to just sit...and I'm getting better at it! I think I miss out on a lot of valuable prayer time by always being busy, so I've been able to spend a lot more time with God, too!
As the holiday season approaches, I am focusing on the people in my life instead of the trappings of the holiday. God is here every day, and I want to be thankful on a daily basis that he came to earth for us -- not just during a season. God is good, he's always in control, and he wants what is best for each of us. He is holding each one of the children in the hospital in his hands, and regardless of their earthly prognosis, he will take good care of them. We are so blessed!
Wednesday, December 05, 2007
Life Update
Our youngest daughter, Sammi, has been in the hospital with migraines since Sunday. We are waiting for the medicine to kick in...it seems to be taking a LONG time! Please keep her in your prayers.
I'll be posting two blogs next week about my two new favorite authors...I'm really excited about their books!
I'll be posting two blogs next week about my two new favorite authors...I'm really excited about their books!
Monday, November 26, 2007
Getting Inside the Head of Your Kid - Free Book!
"Who are you and what have you done with my child?" I have to honestly say that I have thought this about each of my children as they entered the teen years. At some point in their teens (usually during junior high), I've often wondered 'who' would be walking through the door after school. From day to day, and often hour to hour, their attitudes, actions, and preferences would swing from one extreme to another. Luckily, teens eventually discover who they are and what they want from the world and life settles down.
I just finished reading a book called For Parents Only -- Getting Inside the Head of Your Kid by Shaunti Feldhahn and Lisa Rice. I hope the things I've learned in this book will change the relationship I have with my teens (and improve the relationship I'll have with my boys when they become teens).
This is an easy-to-read book that is based on the input of hundreds of kids across the country. Some of the findings seem a little shocking at first until you think back to the time when you were a teen (regardless of how long ago that was), then you wonder if the authors had peeked at your diary! Other findings helped me realize that there are some things we are doing right.
At each stage of our lives we seek to stretch and grow. As babies we want to walk and communicate. As teens we want to learn who we are and how to function on our own in the world. More than anything, this book shows that teens crave freedom and they want to establish their own identity. Often our attempts to control our worlds as parents stifle the very things our teenagers need. Even though our teens may do stupid things with their freedom, they will do almost anything to gain more of it. Our job as parents during this time is to help the kids achieve independence and build responsibility without making reckless choices.
Many of the findings in the book helped me understand some of the attitudes and actions of my teens and their friends. While the information doesn't always make me comfortable, hearing the 'behind-the-scenes' thoughts and feelings that play out in everyday activities helps me gain perspective on what my teens are dealing with. The authors include a chapter that shows how boys and girls react differently to the difficulties of their teen years that really helps a parent deal with gender-unique interpretations of events.
Shaunti and Lisa provide an opportunity to look inside the heads of today's teenagers and give tangible actions parents can take to help their children grow into responsible adults. This would be a great gift for anyone who has a child entering or fully entrenched in the teen years!
Summary:
Shaunti Feldhahn is known for unlocking the mysteries of relationships for men and women. Now she turns to a parent’s relationship with a child, particularly a child of the opposite sex. Drawing on the results of a nationwide survey of kids and teenagers, she explores questions such as:
For Parents Only offers a unique look into a child’s mind and frees readers to communicate in healthier ways as they discover that understanding their kids may not be as complicated as they think.
Author Bio:
Shaunti Feldhahn is the author of For Women Only and numerous other books, with sales totaling nearly one million copies. A nationally syndicated newspaper columnist and public speaker, Feldhahn earned her master’s degree at Harvard University . She and her husband, Jeff, have two young children. Lisa A. Rice is the associate editor of Christian Living magazine, the mother of two teenage girls, and a screenwriter and producer.
You can find out more about the book and purchase it here, or you can go directly to the forparentsonlybook.com website for additional details about the book and some actual survey responses from teens. You can also get a workbook to go with it...this would make a great study for a small group of parents.
Leave a comment about this blog and I'll enter you into a drawing for a free copy of the book! Please be sure to leave an e-mail address or some other way for me to contact you.
I just finished reading a book called For Parents Only -- Getting Inside the Head of Your Kid by Shaunti Feldhahn and Lisa Rice. I hope the things I've learned in this book will change the relationship I have with my teens (and improve the relationship I'll have with my boys when they become teens).
This is an easy-to-read book that is based on the input of hundreds of kids across the country. Some of the findings seem a little shocking at first until you think back to the time when you were a teen (regardless of how long ago that was), then you wonder if the authors had peeked at your diary! Other findings helped me realize that there are some things we are doing right.
At each stage of our lives we seek to stretch and grow. As babies we want to walk and communicate. As teens we want to learn who we are and how to function on our own in the world. More than anything, this book shows that teens crave freedom and they want to establish their own identity. Often our attempts to control our worlds as parents stifle the very things our teenagers need. Even though our teens may do stupid things with their freedom, they will do almost anything to gain more of it. Our job as parents during this time is to help the kids achieve independence and build responsibility without making reckless choices.
Many of the findings in the book helped me understand some of the attitudes and actions of my teens and their friends. While the information doesn't always make me comfortable, hearing the 'behind-the-scenes' thoughts and feelings that play out in everyday activities helps me gain perspective on what my teens are dealing with. The authors include a chapter that shows how boys and girls react differently to the difficulties of their teen years that really helps a parent deal with gender-unique interpretations of events.
Shaunti and Lisa provide an opportunity to look inside the heads of today's teenagers and give tangible actions parents can take to help their children grow into responsible adults. This would be a great gift for anyone who has a child entering or fully entrenched in the teen years!Summary:
Shaunti Feldhahn is known for unlocking the mysteries of relationships for men and women. Now she turns to a parent’s relationship with a child, particularly a child of the opposite sex. Drawing on the results of a nationwide survey of kids and teenagers, she explores questions such as:
What do moms need to understand about the “tough and tender” boy who values respect over love?
What do dads need to understand about their daughter’s need for affirmation?
What are the six biggest pet peeves teens have about their parents?
Understanding the answers to these and other important questions can help parents make the holidays a time of celebration and unity, not strife and friction.
For Parents Only offers a unique look into a child’s mind and frees readers to communicate in healthier ways as they discover that understanding their kids may not be as complicated as they think.
Author Bio:
Shaunti Feldhahn is the author of For Women Only and numerous other books, with sales totaling nearly one million copies. A nationally syndicated newspaper columnist and public speaker, Feldhahn earned her master’s degree at Harvard University . She and her husband, Jeff, have two young children. Lisa A. Rice is the associate editor of Christian Living magazine, the mother of two teenage girls, and a screenwriter and producer.
You can find out more about the book and purchase it here, or you can go directly to the forparentsonlybook.com website for additional details about the book and some actual survey responses from teens. You can also get a workbook to go with it...this would make a great study for a small group of parents.
Leave a comment about this blog and I'll enter you into a drawing for a free copy of the book! Please be sure to leave an e-mail address or some other way for me to contact you.
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Quick -- Give Thanks and Move On
I read an article that talked about the increased number of stores that were opening on Thanksgiving. One quote was particularly disturbing to me:
Has our society lost the ability to connect with family and friends on a holiday? I remember many Thanksgivings where we spent most of the day playing games, talking, and watching football games with our extended family. We ate a large lunchtime meal together, and we stayed long enough to have turkey sandwiches and another round of desserts at dinnertime. I've always had a large portion of my family living locally, and we looked forward to any opportunity to play with cousins and reconnect even if it had only been a few weeks since we had been together.
This quote makes it seem like we should treat our holiday like a business interruption -- eat quickly and move on to the real work. We can't even take one day to relax and focus on our blessings. And, as a result, many of our friends and neighbors have to work on the holiday just so we can 'move on'.
It's a sad statement.
"Some people just can't wait until Friday," said Kirsten Whipple, a Sears spokeswoman. "Thanksgiving dinner is done and they have moved on."
Has our society lost the ability to connect with family and friends on a holiday? I remember many Thanksgivings where we spent most of the day playing games, talking, and watching football games with our extended family. We ate a large lunchtime meal together, and we stayed long enough to have turkey sandwiches and another round of desserts at dinnertime. I've always had a large portion of my family living locally, and we looked forward to any opportunity to play with cousins and reconnect even if it had only been a few weeks since we had been together.
This quote makes it seem like we should treat our holiday like a business interruption -- eat quickly and move on to the real work. We can't even take one day to relax and focus on our blessings. And, as a result, many of our friends and neighbors have to work on the holiday just so we can 'move on'.
It's a sad statement.
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Prayer for a Friend
My very good friend Maryn just received one of those calls we never want...the test results are back and it is cancer. This is her second round with the dreaded disease. She is a strong Christian woman, and I know her faith and her family will get her through this tough time.
I sent her this prayer, and I plan to pray it at least once each day. If you are reading this, would you take a moment to pray for her too?
I sent her this prayer, and I plan to pray it at least once each day. If you are reading this, would you take a moment to pray for her too?
Lord, I pray that you will heal Maryn completely and miraculously. Rid her body of all cancer cells and protect those cells that are healthy. If she must go through medical treatments, surround her with doctors who are caring and gentle to their patients and who are like warriors on a rampage toward the cancer. Guide their hands and minds as they develop the strategy that will result in total healing. Please provide Maryn the strength she needs to get through this tough situation. Minimize any pain or side effects while those bad cells are erradicated. Surround her and her family with tangible love and peace. Let them draw even closer to you and to each other in this time. Provide wonderful distractions to keep their minds away from negative thoughts. Fill their hearts with laughter and wonder, and bless this family beyond their wildest dreams. I pray in Jesus name, Amen
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
God Allows Suffering for a Reason
I have frequently heard Christian speakers talk about how God doesn't want us to live in pain or with depression. If we turn it all over to Him, he will heal us and make us whole. As if some of these illnesses are our own doing and we should just try harder to get closer to God. We must be doing something wrong if we aren't healed. Many people get more discouraged by this kind of talk, and some may even fall away because they believe the lie that they, themselves, are the true cause of the problem.
That is such a hurtful message to so many people. God often puts us in difficult situations, emotional and physical, so we can cling to him and help others. Yes, we often bring depression and stress-related illnesses on ourselves, but not always.
When Jesus was walking to the temple one day, he passed by the Pool of Bethesda. People believed that this pool was touched occasionally by the wings of angels, and that whomever could get into it first when the water was disturbed would be healed. John 5:3 says "Here a great number of disabled people used to lie -- the blind, the lame, the paralyzed." Jesus saw one man who had been an invalid for thirty-eight years, and he asked the man if he wanted to be healed. The man said yes, and Jesus told him to pick up his mat and go home. The man was cured at once.
Could you imagine being the person who was lying next to this man? Why had Jesus selected him and not someone else? Why did he not speak the words and heal every person at the pool? It's easy for us to give reasons such as 'they didn't believe enough' or 'they didn't deserve it'. But we weren't there, and John didn't give any explanation. Jesus healed this one to make a point, but that doesn't mean he didn't love or care about the others.
There are many great saints in God's kingdom who deal with physical and emotional disabilities. God doesn't heal their bodies, but he has healed their hearts and he's put them into situations where many can learn from their examples. They existed even in Biblical times; look at the injuries of Jacob, the thorn in Paul's side, the suffering of Job, and the depression of Jeremiah.
While God could heal them in a second, sometimes he choses not to. They will have whole and perfect bodies when they get to heaven.
If you don't have any physical or emotional ailments, or if you have been healed from them, please be thankful and praise God. But don't look down on others who suffer. They may be blessed with this 'gift' in order to be an example of faithfulness through adversity, and they may be just the example or help that someone else might need. Don't insult them by suggesting that they should just pray harder...you will be a clanging cymbal, just as Job's friends were.
That is such a hurtful message to so many people. God often puts us in difficult situations, emotional and physical, so we can cling to him and help others. Yes, we often bring depression and stress-related illnesses on ourselves, but not always.
When Jesus was walking to the temple one day, he passed by the Pool of Bethesda. People believed that this pool was touched occasionally by the wings of angels, and that whomever could get into it first when the water was disturbed would be healed. John 5:3 says "Here a great number of disabled people used to lie -- the blind, the lame, the paralyzed." Jesus saw one man who had been an invalid for thirty-eight years, and he asked the man if he wanted to be healed. The man said yes, and Jesus told him to pick up his mat and go home. The man was cured at once.
Could you imagine being the person who was lying next to this man? Why had Jesus selected him and not someone else? Why did he not speak the words and heal every person at the pool? It's easy for us to give reasons such as 'they didn't believe enough' or 'they didn't deserve it'. But we weren't there, and John didn't give any explanation. Jesus healed this one to make a point, but that doesn't mean he didn't love or care about the others.
There are many great saints in God's kingdom who deal with physical and emotional disabilities. God doesn't heal their bodies, but he has healed their hearts and he's put them into situations where many can learn from their examples. They existed even in Biblical times; look at the injuries of Jacob, the thorn in Paul's side, the suffering of Job, and the depression of Jeremiah.
While God could heal them in a second, sometimes he choses not to. They will have whole and perfect bodies when they get to heaven.
If you don't have any physical or emotional ailments, or if you have been healed from them, please be thankful and praise God. But don't look down on others who suffer. They may be blessed with this 'gift' in order to be an example of faithfulness through adversity, and they may be just the example or help that someone else might need. Don't insult them by suggesting that they should just pray harder...you will be a clanging cymbal, just as Job's friends were.
Monday, October 29, 2007
The Frost is on the Pumpkin
Today is the first frost for our area. The grass and the rooftops look like they've been sprinkled with powdered sugar and Jack Frost has decorated the windows of my car.
It's amazing how destructive something so pretty can be. In a flash, the impatiens that were bright and perky yesterday look like wilted spinach. Ick! This simple act of chill marks the end of one more summer and hints at the winter just around the bend.
What are the marks of change in our own lives? One day we seem satisfied with our accomplishments and on top of the world, the next we wonder if we are really making a difference and we question our direction. I watch my children grow into responsible adults (well a couple of them are still too young), and I see their struggles to find the right place in the world. It seems like only yesterday I was in that same position -- wondering if a single decision (like a particular college)will change the whole direction of my life in irreparable ways.
I think God gives us these crossroads to help us remember that he is in charge. We get overwhelmed with the choices and we turn to him for help. To facilitate our growth, he seldom provides a clear cut answer, but if we trust in him he always makes the best of our choices(even though it may take years for us to give him that chance).
Does this fall mark a key transition time in your life? Take it to the Father and ask his advice, seek guidance from godly counselors, and search your heart for the right direction. You will always be given choices, and if you turn it over to God as you move forward, he will bless your path or clearly tell you to take a different one. Even if you make a mistake, you can regroup and try again. The worst thing would be to get paralyzed with fear and miss out on the blessings that God can provide in any situation.
The frost marks an end of some things (hopefully mosquitoes), but it brings a promise of snowflakes, Christmas, and hot chocolate. Embrace this new season and snuggle close to God!
It's amazing how destructive something so pretty can be. In a flash, the impatiens that were bright and perky yesterday look like wilted spinach. Ick! This simple act of chill marks the end of one more summer and hints at the winter just around the bend.
What are the marks of change in our own lives? One day we seem satisfied with our accomplishments and on top of the world, the next we wonder if we are really making a difference and we question our direction. I watch my children grow into responsible adults (well a couple of them are still too young), and I see their struggles to find the right place in the world. It seems like only yesterday I was in that same position -- wondering if a single decision (like a particular college)will change the whole direction of my life in irreparable ways.
I think God gives us these crossroads to help us remember that he is in charge. We get overwhelmed with the choices and we turn to him for help. To facilitate our growth, he seldom provides a clear cut answer, but if we trust in him he always makes the best of our choices(even though it may take years for us to give him that chance).
Does this fall mark a key transition time in your life? Take it to the Father and ask his advice, seek guidance from godly counselors, and search your heart for the right direction. You will always be given choices, and if you turn it over to God as you move forward, he will bless your path or clearly tell you to take a different one. Even if you make a mistake, you can regroup and try again. The worst thing would be to get paralyzed with fear and miss out on the blessings that God can provide in any situation.
The frost marks an end of some things (hopefully mosquitoes), but it brings a promise of snowflakes, Christmas, and hot chocolate. Embrace this new season and snuggle close to God!
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Feeling Convicted...
15I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. 16And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good. 17As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, but it is sin living in me. 18I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature.[c] For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. 19For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing. 20Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it.
Why is it that we struggle so much to do the right thing? Why is it so easy to see what others could/should do to help their circumstances when often the advice we would give is advice that we, too, should take?
Our lives are so full of 'stuff' that we often lose the blessing. We think that the solution to our problems is more stuff, more storage for the stuff we have, more money to buy more stuff...it never ends. We spend so much time and energy wanting stuff, getting stuff, taking care of stuff, finding the stuff we lost. And we miss the whole point of life.
Our daughter, Becca, went on a mission trip to Ecuador this summer. She was never very materialistic to start with, but what she saw there really changed her focus. She understands that the things of this world are temporary and for the most part useless. She saw very large families living in one to two room huts with no air conditioning, no running water, no cell phones, computers, televisions, sofas, rugs, you name it. As I look around the room I'm in, they probably didn't have much that I have but the bed, and then it wasn't the nice soft one we have. She learned that for less than $10, she could actually save a childs life...and she did.
How often do I toss $10 around like it is worthless? Oh, I don't think I'm too wasteful, but honestly, I'll spend $10 on a few 12-packs of soda and think nothing of it.
I clutter my home with things that may be pretty or useful, but they are meaningless. And yet I get so attached to them that I rearrange my home to be sure that I have room to keep them -- I'll give up room to relax and enjoy my family, sometimes even room to walk freely, so that I don't have to give up some stuff. At the moment, we can't get our cars in the garage because it is full of useless stuff I can't seem to give away. And in the process I've given away my peace and I'm failing in my stewardship to God.
Excuse me -- I think I need to go declutter.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
It's All Perspective
When Becca and I visited a college last week, we met with several of her friends who just started at the school this fall. Each had a different perspective on the advantages and disadvantages of the school, and for the most part they were thrilled with their choices to attend.
One friend, however, was having a miserable time. She didn't get along well with her roommates, she was not very involved in any activities, and she was terribly homesick.
How is it that different people have such opposite perspectives on something? Yes, each of us has different needs and interests, but these girls were having totally different experiences. There are many factors that play into this particular situation, but it has ramifications for life as a whole.
Do you know people who are miserable all the time? No matter what life hands them, they act as if there is a great dark cloud over their heads. In addition, they seem to suck others into their sense of woe.
Others, who may have really terrible things happen, seem to find a bright spot or a way to cope in tough situations. They, too, seem to pull other people toward their point of view.
There is one thing that we can know -- we will have trouble in this world. Jesus himself told us that in John 16:33. He also tells us that he has overcome the world. A little earlier, John records these words of Jesus:
When we lean on Him, He shares his peace and helps us to cope with our daily problems. And, if we are reflecting Jesus to others, we will help them cope with their problems, too.
Which type of person are you?
One friend, however, was having a miserable time. She didn't get along well with her roommates, she was not very involved in any activities, and she was terribly homesick.
How is it that different people have such opposite perspectives on something? Yes, each of us has different needs and interests, but these girls were having totally different experiences. There are many factors that play into this particular situation, but it has ramifications for life as a whole.
Do you know people who are miserable all the time? No matter what life hands them, they act as if there is a great dark cloud over their heads. In addition, they seem to suck others into their sense of woe.
Others, who may have really terrible things happen, seem to find a bright spot or a way to cope in tough situations. They, too, seem to pull other people toward their point of view.
There is one thing that we can know -- we will have trouble in this world. Jesus himself told us that in John 16:33. He also tells us that he has overcome the world. A little earlier, John records these words of Jesus:
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
When we lean on Him, He shares his peace and helps us to cope with our daily problems. And, if we are reflecting Jesus to others, we will help them cope with their problems, too.
Which type of person are you?
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
What a Weekend!
We have had a whirlwind weekend! On Friday, Becca and I went to Missouri State University in Springfield with Kellee and her mother to check out the campus. Becca is having difficulty figuring out exactly what she needs to take to fulfill her dream of being a missionary who runs a children's home. She goes back and forth between elementary education and social work -- it seems that a double major in those things is almost impossible. The Bible colleges we have looked at require elementary ed students to co-enroll in a local state school. We are starting to look at some private Christian schools, too.
Saturday was Becca's 18th birthday! I remember the day of her birth like it was yesterday, and it's amazing to see what a fabulous young woman she has become. Becca has always had a soft heart for others and she's been our little social butterfly since the day she could stand. I am THRILLED that she has outgrown her temper tantrums (to those of you who have to suffer through a child with these, be assured that they can pass!). She can still slam her door with the best of them, but she hasn't thrown herself on the floor in a tizzy for at least 10 years! Becca is so grounded in her faith, and I love that we have great discussions about God. She comes home to eat lunch a few times a week before she goes to work at the grade school, and it's really nice to be able to talk with her without interruptions. I know she'll be ready to go off to school, but I'll really miss her! She went to the Rascal Flatts concert with several friends on her birthday, and she had a blast.
Saturday afternoon I drove 4 hours to Excelsior Springs to speak at a women's retreat. The women I met there were amazing! They were open and honest with each other and they desperately wanted to be more devoted to God. They were such a blessing to me in many ways, and I pray that their 'glow' from time away with God hasn't faded with the daily chores and their jobs.
Doug spent the weekend refinishing the dining room (aka computer room) floor, so I'm painting and staining moulding this week. We might have one floor of our house almost finished by the end of the week (lacking only a few rugs and a coffee table). We hope to have the basement completed in time for Thanksgiving.
The final quarter of the year is so crazy -- I pray that each of you can find some time to yourselves to find the peace of the season!
Saturday was Becca's 18th birthday! I remember the day of her birth like it was yesterday, and it's amazing to see what a fabulous young woman she has become. Becca has always had a soft heart for others and she's been our little social butterfly since the day she could stand. I am THRILLED that she has outgrown her temper tantrums (to those of you who have to suffer through a child with these, be assured that they can pass!). She can still slam her door with the best of them, but she hasn't thrown herself on the floor in a tizzy for at least 10 years! Becca is so grounded in her faith, and I love that we have great discussions about God. She comes home to eat lunch a few times a week before she goes to work at the grade school, and it's really nice to be able to talk with her without interruptions. I know she'll be ready to go off to school, but I'll really miss her! She went to the Rascal Flatts concert with several friends on her birthday, and she had a blast.
Saturday afternoon I drove 4 hours to Excelsior Springs to speak at a women's retreat. The women I met there were amazing! They were open and honest with each other and they desperately wanted to be more devoted to God. They were such a blessing to me in many ways, and I pray that their 'glow' from time away with God hasn't faded with the daily chores and their jobs.
Doug spent the weekend refinishing the dining room (aka computer room) floor, so I'm painting and staining moulding this week. We might have one floor of our house almost finished by the end of the week (lacking only a few rugs and a coffee table). We hope to have the basement completed in time for Thanksgiving.
The final quarter of the year is so crazy -- I pray that each of you can find some time to yourselves to find the peace of the season!
Saturday, October 06, 2007
Becca's Senior Pictures
Becca is a senior...hard to believe! She asked me to take her Senior pictures for her, so I've been practicing (and agonizing) with my new camera. We took 'practice' photos today at the park. I'd love your advice! Check them out at my photoblog.
Monday, October 01, 2007
An Interview With Lisa Tawn Bergren
In an earlier post I mentioned that I was reading the books 'The Begotten' and 'The Betrayed'. I love historical fiction, and these two books were really hard to put down! They are set in Italy in the 1300's, and the story revolves around several characters who discover they have been given special gifts by God. The heroine, Daria, is a healer, and she meets up with several others who have gifts of faith, prophecy, discernment, and wisdom.
In those days, the Church was much more of a political organization than a religious one, and they would stop at nothing to eliminate those who went against their philosophies. In addition, there was a powerful organization of evil seeking to silent "The Gifted" in any way possible. The story quickly becomes an exciting chase through Italy as the Gifted find each other and discover God's will for their lives. Check these books out – they are amazing!
I had the chance to interview the author, Lisa Tawn Bergren and the information I learned is printed below. I'd highly recommend these books to anyone who wants to be transported to another time in the midst of an exciting and dangerous controversy!
1. How did you get the inspiration for this series?
I read Da Vinci Code and stayed up all night reading it. In the end, I was grieved and angered at the heresy presented there. I set out to find a true biblical mystery, and two scholarly friends told me about the "lost letter(s) of Saint Paul," written to the Corinthians. At the same time, was profoundly influenced in watching the Lord of the Rings trilogy on film. So when Publishers Weekly referenced both Da Vinci Code and LOTR, and compared my book, The Begotten, favorably, I was thrilled!
2. What do you admire most about Daria?
Man, this girl has gone through misery, and look at her! She was handfasted to her longtime love, Marco, then abandoned because she couldn't get pregnant (vital for nobles in need of heirs, thus the Church-sanctioned "handfastings"--basically a try-out of marriage!), finds out she's a healer of amazing proportions, that her coming has been prophesied to come for centuries, and oh...forces of evil are likely on the hunt for her and hers. She's strong, she's faithful, she battles darkness. I want to BE her.
3. Which character was the most difficult to create and why?
I don't want to spoil the story--so suffice it to say a character who is hovering between the righteous life and the evil life. We see this character move and breathe, understand his pain, and catch a glimpse of why he might be tempted by the dark. But watching it unfold is painful. And real. It happens every day. I don't want to be THIS character.
4. What are some of the unusual things you discovered in your research?
Handfastings, mentioned above; that there were no gondolas in my era in Venice; that each region in Italy at that time spoke a different language/dialect; that Venice had the most envied maritime force in the world.
5. What is the most challenging part of writing a historical novel?
Getting it right. I'm always afraid that some history professor will come in, read my book, and send me UnFan Mail. I work hard at trying to get the big--and small--stuff right. And the thing that is really tough is getting your head into the characters, how they might see the world at that time, in that place, rather than simply applying my 21st Century American persona in a different body. That's true perspective, true Point of View, which is undoubtedly the most daunting of tasks.
6. How have these stories changed the way you look at the world?
I'm much more aware of light versus dark, that there is an unseen battle taking place that we largely ignore, when we are in fact called to don our armor and enter the fray. We can make a difference, hold evil at bay with God's help, but we have to recognize it first. I autograph my books to "One of God's gifted..." because we all are given spiritual gifts that God hopes we will make use of on his behalf. Our lives count!
7. What projects are you working on now? When can we expect your next book?
I'm working on book #3 in the Gifted, The Blessed. It's due in a couple of weeks! It will come out Fall, 2008. Then I'm on to concepting my next series and beginning the research. I'm considering another epic trilogy, set in the 18th century, and a Colorado 19th century series.
8. How did parts of the story change based on what you discovered in research? For example, did you add or delete any scenes that resulted in a major impact on the story line?
The Gifted are on a quest journey, covering some major territory. The biggest thing I discovered was that the papacy had been moved to Avignon, France, during my time period (rather than Rome). Since the Church is essentially a main character in my books, that caused a big, screeching halt, reorganization and rewriting. It could've been an excruciating post-pub "whoops." I'm shivering, thinking about it.
9. What question would you like to answer that I haven't asked?
"Lisa, did you get to go to Italy to research?"
Yes, yes, yes! (I got to go three times--once with my husband, once with my eldest daughter, and once with my folks and children--the whole gang.) And I can't wait to return. It's every bit as cool as everyone says. I would very much like to see the Amalfi Coast next...hmmm...maybe that could be the locale my next book!
Lisa Tawn Bergren is the author of 28 books, with over 1.3 million sold. She is a publishing consultant, writer, Bible study leader, mother and wife. Her hobbies include travel (mostly from an armchair), reading, watching movies, cooking and exploring with her family. Lisa's most recent books include The Begotten, The Betrayed, God Gave Us Heaven, What Women Want and The Busy Mom's Devotional. She resides in Colorado Springs, Colorado. To sign up for her monthly email (which includes a new, unpublished devotional) go to www.LisaTawnBergren.com and join her newsletter list.
Make sure to check out her website, there is a longer bio and more about her other books.
The Begotten
The Betrayed:
In those days, the Church was much more of a political organization than a religious one, and they would stop at nothing to eliminate those who went against their philosophies. In addition, there was a powerful organization of evil seeking to silent "The Gifted" in any way possible. The story quickly becomes an exciting chase through Italy as the Gifted find each other and discover God's will for their lives. Check these books out – they are amazing!
I had the chance to interview the author, Lisa Tawn Bergren and the information I learned is printed below. I'd highly recommend these books to anyone who wants to be transported to another time in the midst of an exciting and dangerous controversy!
1. How did you get the inspiration for this series?
I read Da Vinci Code and stayed up all night reading it. In the end, I was grieved and angered at the heresy presented there. I set out to find a true biblical mystery, and two scholarly friends told me about the "lost letter(s) of Saint Paul," written to the Corinthians. At the same time, was profoundly influenced in watching the Lord of the Rings trilogy on film. So when Publishers Weekly referenced both Da Vinci Code and LOTR, and compared my book, The Begotten, favorably, I was thrilled!
2. What do you admire most about Daria?
Man, this girl has gone through misery, and look at her! She was handfasted to her longtime love, Marco, then abandoned because she couldn't get pregnant (vital for nobles in need of heirs, thus the Church-sanctioned "handfastings"--basically a try-out of marriage!), finds out she's a healer of amazing proportions, that her coming has been prophesied to come for centuries, and oh...forces of evil are likely on the hunt for her and hers. She's strong, she's faithful, she battles darkness. I want to BE her.
3. Which character was the most difficult to create and why?
I don't want to spoil the story--so suffice it to say a character who is hovering between the righteous life and the evil life. We see this character move and breathe, understand his pain, and catch a glimpse of why he might be tempted by the dark. But watching it unfold is painful. And real. It happens every day. I don't want to be THIS character.
4. What are some of the unusual things you discovered in your research?
Handfastings, mentioned above; that there were no gondolas in my era in Venice; that each region in Italy at that time spoke a different language/dialect; that Venice had the most envied maritime force in the world.
5. What is the most challenging part of writing a historical novel?
Getting it right. I'm always afraid that some history professor will come in, read my book, and send me UnFan Mail. I work hard at trying to get the big--and small--stuff right. And the thing that is really tough is getting your head into the characters, how they might see the world at that time, in that place, rather than simply applying my 21st Century American persona in a different body. That's true perspective, true Point of View, which is undoubtedly the most daunting of tasks.
6. How have these stories changed the way you look at the world?
I'm much more aware of light versus dark, that there is an unseen battle taking place that we largely ignore, when we are in fact called to don our armor and enter the fray. We can make a difference, hold evil at bay with God's help, but we have to recognize it first. I autograph my books to "One of God's gifted..." because we all are given spiritual gifts that God hopes we will make use of on his behalf. Our lives count!
7. What projects are you working on now? When can we expect your next book?
I'm working on book #3 in the Gifted, The Blessed. It's due in a couple of weeks! It will come out Fall, 2008. Then I'm on to concepting my next series and beginning the research. I'm considering another epic trilogy, set in the 18th century, and a Colorado 19th century series.
8. How did parts of the story change based on what you discovered in research? For example, did you add or delete any scenes that resulted in a major impact on the story line?
The Gifted are on a quest journey, covering some major territory. The biggest thing I discovered was that the papacy had been moved to Avignon, France, during my time period (rather than Rome). Since the Church is essentially a main character in my books, that caused a big, screeching halt, reorganization and rewriting. It could've been an excruciating post-pub "whoops." I'm shivering, thinking about it.
9. What question would you like to answer that I haven't asked?
"Lisa, did you get to go to Italy to research?"
Yes, yes, yes! (I got to go three times--once with my husband, once with my eldest daughter, and once with my folks and children--the whole gang.) And I can't wait to return. It's every bit as cool as everyone says. I would very much like to see the Amalfi Coast next...hmmm...maybe that could be the locale my next book!
Lisa Tawn Bergren is the author of 28 books, with over 1.3 million sold. She is a publishing consultant, writer, Bible study leader, mother and wife. Her hobbies include travel (mostly from an armchair), reading, watching movies, cooking and exploring with her family. Lisa's most recent books include The Begotten, The Betrayed, God Gave Us Heaven, What Women Want and The Busy Mom's Devotional. She resides in Colorado Springs, Colorado. To sign up for her monthly email (which includes a new, unpublished devotional) go to www.LisaTawnBergren.com and join her newsletter list.
Make sure to check out her website, there is a longer bio and more about her other books.
The Begotten
The Betrayed:
Thursday, September 06, 2007
I'll Take What I Can Get
Chris and I had a rough day today. He's already decided that he doesn't like school this year so he whines and fights all morning until it's time to leave. It's interesting that he has always had a good day when we talk about it after school. I think it is just having to get ready on a schedule that causes him trouble...he's definitely not a morning person!
This morning it got pretty out of hand and I was frustrated for quite a while. He argued with everything I said and ended up screaming that he hated me (because I told him to put on his socks...I know, I'm cruel).
But tonight he asked me a very strange question. He wanted to know if I would trade my mother for a grape if someone asked me to. What???? After I asked him to repeat it because I was sure I'd heard incorrectly, I answered that of course not, I wouldn't trade my mother for anything.
Then he told Kevin that he would never trade me for a grape...he would be too lonely!It may not be a big hug and "I love you", but some days this is may be the best I can get.
After the disagreements this morning I was sure he'd give someone much more than a grape to take me away. I hope he doesn't change his mind tomorrow if we butt heads again!
This morning it got pretty out of hand and I was frustrated for quite a while. He argued with everything I said and ended up screaming that he hated me (because I told him to put on his socks...I know, I'm cruel).
But tonight he asked me a very strange question. He wanted to know if I would trade my mother for a grape if someone asked me to. What???? After I asked him to repeat it because I was sure I'd heard incorrectly, I answered that of course not, I wouldn't trade my mother for anything.
Then he told Kevin that he would never trade me for a grape...he would be too lonely!It may not be a big hug and "I love you", but some days this is may be the best I can get.
After the disagreements this morning I was sure he'd give someone much more than a grape to take me away. I hope he doesn't change his mind tomorrow if we butt heads again!
Tuesday, September 04, 2007
25 Years? Amazing!
Twenty-five years ago today I walked down the aisle and married my best friend Doug. I have been blessed more than I can imagine. The love he has shown me has helped me to understand how God can love us -- totally and unconditionally. Together we have learned how to focus on the things that matter and that by growing closer to God we can grow closer to each other.
Even though he tells me that he loves me every day, I would know without the words. He has allowed me to try new things and he's supported my crazy ideas regardless of their potential impact to him. He's encouraged me to accept challenging positions at work that resulted in a lot of travel, leaving him at home with three girls. He never complained, and he went out of his way to ensure that the girls had a fun time when I was gone...so much so that at times the girls couldn't wait for me to leave! He supported me in career moves that I had dreamed of and he's the cause of any success I've had.
He walked right beside me and never hesitated when I wanted to consider adoption. Although the original reason we considered adding to our family didn't work, he too felt the need to fill the empty seat(s) at our table and he was key in all the struggles we went through to adopt our boys. He had never complained about living in a house with all girls (well, he didn't really mean it...), and he'd even thought that another girl was what we wanted. I'll never forget the look on his face when he walked up and down the boy toy aisle and realized that he had a GOOD reason to play with light sabers now that we were adopting twin boys. He'd chosen to be so satisfied with our family that I don't think he realized how much he wanted a little more testosterone in the house!
With the same ease he was enthusiastic about my desire to come home to support our family and to try yet another new endeavor (writing). He took changes in income and my transition struggles in stride, never doubting that this new challenge would work. He even lets me bring cats home despite his intense dislike of them!
I could give a thousand example of his love and care, but one of my favorites is the way he wants to hold my hand whenever we stand or sit together.
Thank you, Doug, for every thing. For your love, your friendship, you abilities as a father and a husband. I look forward to holding your hand for at least 25 more years!
Even though he tells me that he loves me every day, I would know without the words. He has allowed me to try new things and he's supported my crazy ideas regardless of their potential impact to him. He's encouraged me to accept challenging positions at work that resulted in a lot of travel, leaving him at home with three girls. He never complained, and he went out of his way to ensure that the girls had a fun time when I was gone...so much so that at times the girls couldn't wait for me to leave! He supported me in career moves that I had dreamed of and he's the cause of any success I've had.
He walked right beside me and never hesitated when I wanted to consider adoption. Although the original reason we considered adding to our family didn't work, he too felt the need to fill the empty seat(s) at our table and he was key in all the struggles we went through to adopt our boys. He had never complained about living in a house with all girls (well, he didn't really mean it...), and he'd even thought that another girl was what we wanted. I'll never forget the look on his face when he walked up and down the boy toy aisle and realized that he had a GOOD reason to play with light sabers now that we were adopting twin boys. He'd chosen to be so satisfied with our family that I don't think he realized how much he wanted a little more testosterone in the house!
With the same ease he was enthusiastic about my desire to come home to support our family and to try yet another new endeavor (writing). He took changes in income and my transition struggles in stride, never doubting that this new challenge would work. He even lets me bring cats home despite his intense dislike of them!
I could give a thousand example of his love and care, but one of my favorites is the way he wants to hold my hand whenever we stand or sit together.
Thank you, Doug, for every thing. For your love, your friendship, you abilities as a father and a husband. I look forward to holding your hand for at least 25 more years!
What a Great Place!
I don't usually like to promote business establishments in my blog, but I just have to tell about ToysRUs's Birthday Club. This is the second year we have done it (see my original blog, Like a Kid in a Candy Store, from last year). The boys each received a birthday card with a $3.00 gift card. At the store each received a balloon and a birthday crown. Christopher put his on immediately and wore it the whole time...Kevin decided he was too old for that, but he carried the balloon around like a prize.
Then, as we started shopping, they announced over the loud speaker that the boys were doing their birthday shopping, and they asked everyone to congratulate them on turning eight. Several people stopped us to aske about their birthday and oohed and aahed over their toy selections. The boys had each received a gift card from us and some birthday money from their Aunt and Uncle, so they had a fortune to spend ($48.00 each).
We had a blast. Just like last year, Kevin decided what he wanted very quickly (a Hot Wheels toy, Hungry Hungry Hippos, and a remote controlled snake). He put them in the basket and then happily helped his brother shop. Christopher checked over every item. He was appalled at how much some things cost (what a good shopper!) and he didn't want to spend his money all in one place. He was such a frugal shopper. He eventually chose two $5.00 items and I was starting to wonder if we had time to finish shopping since the store closed in just six more hours...
Then he found the spy toys, and he chose to put his two small gifts back in order to purchase night vision goggles, a listening device, secret message pen, small lights that attach to your helmet for secret missions, and several other things. They carefully handed over their money and gift cards and proudly carried their gifts to the car.
We had free kid's meal certificates for a local restaurant because of their birthday, but they didn't want to stop anywhere that might postpone their playtime! Whose children are they and where did they take my fast food junkies????
It was fun to see that their basic personalities are gelling and their shopping techniques remained the same for a whole year. They are already talking about their shopping spree next year! I guess I don't have to agonize over gifts any more as long as they like ToysRUs.
Then, as we started shopping, they announced over the loud speaker that the boys were doing their birthday shopping, and they asked everyone to congratulate them on turning eight. Several people stopped us to aske about their birthday and oohed and aahed over their toy selections. The boys had each received a gift card from us and some birthday money from their Aunt and Uncle, so they had a fortune to spend ($48.00 each).
We had a blast. Just like last year, Kevin decided what he wanted very quickly (a Hot Wheels toy, Hungry Hungry Hippos, and a remote controlled snake). He put them in the basket and then happily helped his brother shop. Christopher checked over every item. He was appalled at how much some things cost (what a good shopper!) and he didn't want to spend his money all in one place. He was such a frugal shopper. He eventually chose two $5.00 items and I was starting to wonder if we had time to finish shopping since the store closed in just six more hours...
Then he found the spy toys, and he chose to put his two small gifts back in order to purchase night vision goggles, a listening device, secret message pen, small lights that attach to your helmet for secret missions, and several other things. They carefully handed over their money and gift cards and proudly carried their gifts to the car.
We had free kid's meal certificates for a local restaurant because of their birthday, but they didn't want to stop anywhere that might postpone their playtime! Whose children are they and where did they take my fast food junkies????
It was fun to see that their basic personalities are gelling and their shopping techniques remained the same for a whole year. They are already talking about their shopping spree next year! I guess I don't have to agonize over gifts any more as long as they like ToysRUs.
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