Words are Timeless

Close to Home-The January 23rd 2012 East Jefferson County Alabama Tornado

2012-01-24T09:50:00.001-06:00

In the dark hours of yesterday morning another tornado ripped through my state of Alabama. This time it hit home. The tornado was within a half mile of my house. It obliterated communities, destroyed homes and took the life of a 16 year old girl in my community.

This one was too close. My family and I huddled together in the downstairs closet. We survived. God had His hand on us(no other explanation). My husband is a weather watcher and he didn't go to bed the night before. He stayed awake to ensure our safety. Many families were not so lucky or blessed.

It's a tragedy once again in our state, but this time it was too close to home. It could have been my family, my house or our community. I praise God we are alive today. It saddens my heart and soul that others are picking up the pieces of their lives today. The painful memories of January 23rd, 2012 will never be erased.

East Jefferson County Alabama was almost wiped off the map(Clay, Centerpoint, Trussville and Pinson). The damage was mainly centered in Centerpoint (buildings and homes gone), Clay(subdivisons gone, one life lost) Trussville(homes gone) Pinson(businesses gone).

My grandson attends a Pinson school and today we are thankful and blessed his school is still standing(many aren't).

Please pray for the many victims of yesterday's devastation....

The American Way

2012-01-16T08:25:00.000-06:00

The American way....
Truth, justice, liberty for all?

Today many American's celebrate the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He had a dream, a dream that became a reality.

As an American Christian I also have a dream. My dream is not a reality as we forge into 2012. The American people still live divided among racial and cultural barriers.

When our founding fathers wrote The Declaration of Independence it was their goal that every one was to be created equal. "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness"

ALL MEN ARE CREATED EQUAL!

Today we not only celebrate a great man's legacy, but we celebrate our freedom, we celebrate all people...

We are not white, black or brown; we are the human race!

We are all children of God...do not let barriers divide you. Stand up for the American way!

Blogging from A to Z Challenge April 2012

2012-01-15T11:14:00.001-06:00

It's almost that time of year to sign up for the A-Z blogging challenge. It's fun and a great way to get your creative juices flowing. I participated last year and had great fun.
Sign up starts January 30, 2012. To find out more about the challenge click "What is blogging from A to Z"

Hope to see you there!

It's O.K. to Fail

2012-01-13T11:25:00.001-06:00

It's O.K. to fail...those words echoed in my head as I prepared to go back to school and earn my college degree. My parents were my champions. They taught me I could go as far as I wanted in life or education. Before I could write my room was filled with encyclopedias, medical and science books. I knew early in life what I wanted to be when I grew up. I wanted to be successful. I wanted to be somebody.

Unfortunately, my life took an unexpected turn down a one way, dead-end street. My father passed away, I dropped out of high school and became pregnant. My aspirations were put on the back burner,but my parents words still rang in the distance."It's O.K. to fail." I didn't understand what they meant. How was it O.K. to fail at something you worked your whole life to achieve? How could I live my dream if I failed?

What I didn't realize was the true meaning of my parents words. Its not they encouraged or wanted me to fail in whatever I chose to do with my life. They wanted me to know failure is a part of success. In order for me to succeed I first had to fail. I had to make mistakes. I had to go down dead-end streets.

It's O.K. to fail...when I made mistakes and took wrong turns toward my goal I learned valuable lessons. I learned I may not always succeed at my intended goal, but that's alright because I learned to never give up on the most important things.

Success cannot come without failure. Failure is the price I paid in order to become who I am. It is what makes me stronger in my convictions.

This is an essay I wrote. Please take the time to vote for me. Thank you.

Who Inspires You?

2012-01-11T08:40:00.001-06:00

Who inspires you?

I hadn't thought much about that question, until I sat down to work on my law school essay.

I am getting ready to enter college in the Fall and these three women have inspired me...

At fifty-one I am about to enter into the world of college freshmen. College will be a different avenue. For the last thirty-five years I have been raising a family and working, now I am about to realize my dream. A bachelors degree in criminal justice will be just three and a half years away.

I'm not in high school anymore. College will be different beast. I know I will feel as if I have gotten myself way in over my head. Long hours of studying and up all nights will start to take a toll on my mind. The underdog syndrome will take over. Determination and desire will fly out the window. I won't be able to see myself graduating. All I will see is failure. My courage was lost until I turned on the television.

Three women changed my life and those same three women inspired me to continue my education and not give up.

One of those women was Claire Danes in the biopic of Temple Grandin an autistic woman who struggles but goes on to graduate from several colleges with multiple degrees. I was inspired by Ms. Grandin's courage and determination. She was an underdog because of her disability, but she forged through, turned her life into ability and lived her dream.

Another inspirational woman from whom I drew strength and courage was Loretta Young as Swedish born Katrin Holstrom in The Farmer's Daughter. Katie was a naive girl from the farm who winds up in the city and becomes a congresswoman. Her life gets turned upside down when she involves herself in politics. I was encouraged by Katie. She showed me just because some people think a person is naïve doesn't mean anything. Katie showed everyone she had spunk and set out to fulfill her dream. She was an underdog who might have not accomplished anything if it had not been for spunk. Katie Holstrom inspired me to have spunk, without it I would have quit.

The last woman I drew inspiration from was Reese Witherspoon as Elle Woods in Legally Blonde. I have always wanted to become a lawyer, but when I saw Legally Blonde and the way Elle Woods didn't let any obstacle get in her way I knew the possibility could become a reality for myself. She was an underdog. Elle had to compete with highly intelligent people, but she did and proved because a person looks different doesn't make them any less smart. The inspiration I took away from Elle Woods was drive. The drive to succeed had always been there. I had just forgotten how to use it.

These three women were underdogs, like myself. They each taught me it takes strength, courage, spunk, determination and drive to make your dreams become a reality. It takes inspiration not to give up. I didn't. I will graduate with my degree in criminal justice and I will be very proud of that success and that part of my life. Without inspiration, strength, courage, determination, spunk and drive I would still be an underdog cowering in the corner.

The World is Brown

2012-01-07T16:20:00.000-06:00

The world is brown...
It's a sad fact that everyday we are turning our environment brown. Let's face it, our world is dying and we're not doing anything about it!

It's a brand new year and it should be a brand new world. In 2012 every person on this vast planet should do their part to "reduce, reuse, and recycle". I know I am!

My "change the world" initiative is to change the world from brown to green with the three r's. No, I don't intend to change the world with reading, writing and 'rithmatic but reduce, reuse and recycle!

I WANT TO LIVE ON A GREEN PLANET....

The first step I can take is teaching my family and myself how to reduce. I need to face the fact head on that we are a family of wasters.

REDUCE: Remember every destruction utilized causes erosion.

In order to have a plan to reduce what my family uses and wastes I came up with a simple solution. I had never really thought much about the destruction I was causing to the planet. I didn't realize every negative thing I was doing when I bought certain product packaging.

I had to reduce my family's wastefulness. It was my duty to turn my family into a green family who actually cared about the planet.

I began to utilize new product packaging. Just because a product is packaged in a smaller container doesn't mean I don't get the same results.

I looked for green packaging. Landfills are over capacity and my household was a contributing factor to the problem, not a solution.

Now instead of utilizing destructive purchasing behavior, my family now utilizes environmentally friendly products. We want to keep the Earth green and clean!

REUSE: Remember efficient use saves Earth.

It's hard for me to remember to reuse. It's also something I need to get into the habit of doing on a daily basis. I've got to learn it's efficient to reuse what I already have and it saves Earth.

Instead of paper or plastic I now use a reusable grocery bag. It's not only economical, but it can be used many times and not harm the planet and take up unwanted space in a landfill.

Many products have multiple uses. I hadn't thought about all the plastic jugs I threw away that could serve other purposes. I now use the jugs for bird feeders, plant containers and scooper's.

The possibilities are endless when it comes to reuses something lying around the house. My family now thinks twice before throwing anything away.

I want to be efficient not deficient with the products I buy. Tons of plastic, glass, aluminum and paper sit in landfills because someone like I used to be didn't reuse what they already had.

Earth is only borrowed, I want to make sure it's here tomorrow!

RECYCLE: Remember Earth cannot yield continuous lost energy.

Through reducing and reusing my resources I learned to recycle. Recycling is one of the most important factors in saving Earth. Earth is overloaded with junk. Junk depletes energy.

I don't want myself or my family to be the cause of energy depletion. We created a recycling station. It's a family affair. The family that recycles together saves the planet together.

Our family uses colored coded bins. It's a great system for my grandson to learn about recycling. Recycling not only teaches him values, but how important our planet really is.

To make recycling more interesting I also have special bins I use to make a point about the condition of Earth. I have a brown bin and a green bin.

During the week everything recyclable goes into the brown bin. It overflows by the end of the week. I point out to my grandson this is how Earth is. It becomes so full of garbage and becomes overcrowded.

On recycling day it's his job to sort the glass, plastic, aluminum and paper into the different bins. When he gets through everything is neat and in its place. The brown bin is empty and the green bins are full . He knows green means money, but I taught him it also means when we take all the stuff we collected throughout the week from the brown bin the Earth is happy and now because we chose to recycle the Earth is now a green planet!

TURN THE EARTH GREEN AGAIN!

The plan to turn the earth green is simple and it starts with you and me. I want to live on a green planet. I want my grandson to continue to live on a green planet.

Save the Earth
that's my motto;
we're about to hit
bottom.
Stop all the smog;
the drain is getting
clogged.
Save the Earth
plant a tree;
so we will be
pollution free.
Clean up the mess;
so we can be our
best.
Save the Earth
give it another chance;
it's time to
enhance.
Protect our resources;
join forces.
Save the Earth
do it today;
don't delay.

Take the first step. Become proactive....
Create a green world!

This post is part of the Castle Ink Paperless Scholarship. The theme is "reduce, reuse, recycle."
Castle Ink is a leading office supply store, specializing in printer ink cartridges and laser toner for most printer brands.

A New Years Quest

2012-01-05T06:12:00.000-06:00

Quest:The act or an instance of seeking or pursuing something; a search.

EAGERLY PURSUE and seek to acquire [this] love [make it your aim, your great quest]; and earnestly desire and cultivate the spiritual endowments (gifts), especially that you may prophesy (interpret the divine will and purpose in inspired preaching and teaching). 1 Corinthians 14:1 AMP

Making your ear attentive to skillful and godly Wisdom and inclining and directing your heart and mind to understanding [applying all your powers to the quest for it] Proverbs 2:2 AMP

During a new year many people seek things they cannot attain. I used to be one of those people. Every year I would make my resolution. I would seek something I already knew would be impossible to find. I kept failing my quest for perfection. I had to step back and realize I am not perfect, but I do have a different quest I must attain.

This year my quest will take me in a different direction, down a different path. This year I will seek the gifts God has for me. My quest may not be easy, but a quest is never easy.

This year I will eagerly pursue, seek and acquire love. Last year the love I had in my heart faltered and I lost it somewhere along the path to spirituality. I will earnestly desire and cultivate my spiritual gifts. I will make this my great quest!

I will make my ear attentive to skillful and godly wisdom. I will direct my heart and mind in the direction of understanding. I will apply all my powers to quest for these things this year!

What is your quest for the new year? Will your earnestly desire and apply all your powers to seek what you are searching for?

This post is part of January's Christian Writers Blog Chain. You can read more great post by clicking on the links to the right. The topic this month is quest.

The Greatest Gift

2011-12-27T06:49:00.002-06:00

This post is part of Decembers Christian Writers Blog Chain. You can read more great post by clicking on the links to the right. The topic this month is gift. It's a fitting topic for me because today I turn 51. I didn't receive any gifts because I have already received the greatest gift. Today I want to share my gift with you.

THE GREATEST GIFT

“...And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. Now all this was done , that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying , Behold , a virgin shall be with child , and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is , God with us...” Matthew 1:21-23 KJV

Christmas. When we think of Christmas the first thing that probably pops into our heads are presents. I know for my seven year old grandson presents are the first thing on his mind during the Christmas season. Unfortunately the true meaning of Christmas has become less focused on the Savior and more on commercialism.

For many Christians Christmas has become materialistic instead of spiritualistic. It is more about getting instead of giving. We tend to forget we've already received the greatest gift. On that first Christmas morning over two-thousand years ago we received a life-time gift from our Heavenly Father.

The Lord brought forth His greatest gift. Our gift was not wrapped in gold and silver, but in swaddling clothing. The tiny babe who lay in the manger was our gift of salvation. He didn't cost an exorbitant amount, but paid the ultimate price for being given to us.

Can you think of a better gift to receive on Christmas morning? I know I can't! That precious gift was delivered on Earth as a reminder. When God gave us Jesus He made a promise to always be with us.

The Lord gave us many gifts to show how much He loved us. He gave us the gift of life. He gave us the gift of peace. But the greatest gift He gave was his Son. When He placed his Son on Earth that long ago first Christmas He did knowing one day Jesus would pay for our sins. God loves us so much He gave his only begotten Son.

When you opened your presents on Christmas morning, did you think about what you might receive, instead of what you have already received. Did you think about the commercialism, instead of the spiritualism. Christmas is only about one price. It's about the price Jesus paid so we could live. It's about the greatest gift we could ever get. Christmas is about Emmanuel.

This Christmas Season when you celebrated with your family and friends what was your greatest gift?

I know the greatest gift I received on Christmas and today on my birthday was my Savior(God's Son) Jesus Christ....

Are You Standing on a Solid Rock or Sinking in Quicksand?

2011-12-19T07:28:00.000-06:00

Are you standing on a solid rock?

Are you sinking in quicksand?

This is the time of year many of us find ourselves sinking in quicksand instead of standing on a solid rock. Unfortunately it has become a constant struggle for myself as well. When I comitted to do as God commanded of me, I felt myself sinking into quicksand fast and felt there was no way out.

I sink in deep mire, where there is no standing: I am come into deep waters, where the floods overflow me. Psalms 69:2 KJV

It'a easy to give up and let yourself sink deeper and deeper to the point you can't climb out. Even Christian's tend to let themselves sink into quicksand.

The Lord will take you out of the quicksand. He will not let you sink. He will recue you only if you let Him.

Deliver me out of the mire, and let me not sink: let me be delivered from them that hate me, and out of the deep waters. Psalms 69:14 KJV

God does not want you to sink into quicksand. He wants you to stand on a solid rock of faith. How soon we forget the Lord is our rock.

The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower. Psalms 18:2 KJV

He is my rock and my fortress when I start to sink into the quicksand of life's woes and worries.

There is none holy as the LORD: for there is none beside thee: neither is there any rock like our God. I Samuel 2:12 KJV

There is no other that will rescue from the quicksand but the Lord. He is the only one that can save you from a life of destruction. He is the only one that is willing to throw you a lifeline and pull you out of the pit that will swallow you alive.

Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength: Isaiah 26:4 KJV

Trials Tribulation and Trust

2011-12-16T08:55:00.000-06:00

One of the first things we do in the middle of trials or tribulation is shut down. We let Satan win when we fail to trust in the Lord with all our heart.

Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. John 14:1 KJV

For me this past few days I've made some personal choices in my walk with the Lord. If you have read my blog you know that Monday and Tuesday were bad days for me. I prayed faithfully Tuesday night for the situation to change. God answered my prayers and on Wednesday the situation looked hopeful, but it would only be the beginning of Satan's destructive path.

Behold, ye trust in lying words, that cannot profit. Jeremiah 7:8 KJV

You see, I trusted not in my Heavenly Father, because I got caught up in the web of Satan's lies. I believed things had really changed, but Satan was determined to trap me and let me die spiritually in his web of deceit.

Blessed is the man that trusteth in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is. Jeremiah 17:7 KJV

I chose to walk away rather that stay and fight a battle I would lose. I knew I should not let Satan win. I trust in my Heavenly Father to know that He will provide what I, what my family needs.

Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the LORD JEHOVAH is my strength and my song; he also is become my salvation. Isaiah 12:2 KJV

When I made a commitment to be re-baptised and tithe as I was commanded I also knew I would battle forces beyond my control. Satan doesn't want to lose another soul to good. He wants to keep a spiritual soul in a dark pit with no way out.

The LORD is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him. Nahum 1:7 KJV

I put my trust in the Lord in my time of trials and tribulation because He is my Father, He is my Salvation, He is my Fortress, He is my Stronghold against all evil that will come against me to try and destroy my faith.

As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the LORD is tried: he is a buckler to all them that trust in him. II Samuel 22:31 KJV

Worship Wenesday: Jesus Loves You

2011-12-14T02:59:00.001-06:00

Jesus loves you! Those three simple words can change your life...

The past couple of days I've been stressed out to the point I let my blood pressure go sky high and let my secular self almost over-ride my Christian self. Let's just say I was having 'one of those days', until the Lord opened my eyes and revealed a very important message to me that He wants me to share with you.

I've sit at the same cubicle at work for almost three months and never noticed anything out of the ordinary until yesterday when I needed the Lord in my life(at that particular moment)to intervene. Have you ever noticed it's sometimes unasked prayers that get answered first. It's the prayers that weigh heavy on our hearts God answers with words rather than actions.

I sat down at my desk and tried to get ready for my day. I thought it would probably be an impossible task, because I had already set myself up for "come what may." I looked up and written in pen(never noticed before) were three words that turned probable disaster into possible dealings.
JESUS LOVE YOU...

I knew in my heart those words were not put there by a fellow co-worker, but by my Heavenly Father. He already knew what my day was going to be like, before I even got started. He knew I need those three simple words. He also knows that everyone of you needs this message.

When you despair, stress or forget you are most important don't ever forget JESUS LOVES YOU!
The bible is filled with many scriptures telling us of His great love for His children. When you forget or Satan takes hold of your mind, soul and heart pick up your bible. The message is as clear as the words that were written to me on an old painted white piece of wood.

If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies,Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind Philippians 2:1-2 KJV

God loves us so very much He sent His only son to die for us. Jesus loves us also that He was willing to die for us... Don't ever forget how much you are loved.

Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. 1 John 4:10 KJV

Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us. Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit. And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world. Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God. And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him. Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. We love him, because he first loved us. 1 John 4:7-19 KJV

Another great reminder of His love for us is a song I learned as a child:

Jesus Loves Me

Jesus loves me! this I know,
For the Bible tells me so.
Little ones to Him belong;
they are weak but He is strong.

Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me!
The Bible tells me so.

Jesus loves me! loves me still,
'tho I'm very weak and ill,
that I might from sin be free,
bled and died upon the tree.

Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me!
The Bible tells me so.

Jesus loves me! He who died
heaven's gate to open wide;
He will wash away my sin,
let His little child come in.

Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me!
The Bible tells me so.

Jesus loves me! He will stay
close beside me all the way.
Thou hast bled and died for me,
I will henceforth live for Thee.

Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me!
The Bible tells me so.

Jesus loves me when I'm good.
When I do the things I should.
Jesus loves me when I'm bad,
but it makes him oh so sad.

Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me!
The Bible tells me so.

YES, JESUS LOVES YOU MY FRIEND!

"Chicago marketing" Straight North $50 gift card give-a-way...AND THE WINNER IS....

2011-12-12T06:23:00.000-06:00

Congratulations to Myne. She won the $50 gift card from Straight North a Chicago marketing company. Thanks to Straight North a Chicago marketing company for providing the $50 gift card. The winner has been notified.

Carving Angels Blog Tour Meet Special Guest Author Diane Stringam Tolley

2011-12-10T06:46:00.000-06:00

A Message from the author:

Carving Angels - Behind the Wood Shavings

I love a background story.

Just as I love the secondary characters in a movie.

Each adds . . . substance.

And, let's face it, the lead story and the lead characters have all been done to death. The world is looking for something fresh and new.

But who says that fresh and new can't be siphoned off of the old and overdone?

Carving Angels came from just such an idea.

I was looking at a picture of Santa Claus, riding in his famous sleigh.

Pulled by his equally famous reindeer.

And the thought struck me - 'Huh. I wonder where he got his sleigh?' It is such an integral part of the whole 'Santa' story, but no one has ever explained where it came from.

Did he mail order it?

The number of stamps alone would be mind-boggling.

Visit 'Sleighs R Us' on one of his weekend getaways to New York or places south?

Possible, but doubtful. For one thing, I've never seen a 'Sleighs R Us' store.

Even in Edmonton.

I sincerely doubt that one could find a Sears or Costco at the North Pole.

The only other solutions seemed to be either union-made (elves), or non-union 'constructed in someone's shop' (also elves).

Bingo.

I had my premise.

Santa's sleigh was constructed by elves.

Or more particularly, by an elf.

A very gifted elf.

But what kind of gifts?

A metal worker/welder?

I'm sure they have them in abundance at the North Pole. After all, who else could construct the plethora of things metal that appear under our tree on Christmas morning?

Okay, that's one possibility.

Computer whiz.

Handy, especially when it came to interior bells and whistles.

But, let's face it, a virtual sleigh, though it might look good on the silver screen, really couldn't pass muster when it came to actually carrying the big guy and serving as a repository for the all-important toys and gifts.

Computer whizzes - out.

Wait. What about a wood carver?

We're talking about a night spent in an open sleigh in sub-zero temperatures.

Okay, yes, I know that many of Santa's deliveries are to tropical and sub-tropical locales, but we should plan for the frozen-est, rather than the warm-est, right?

Moving on . . .

Hmm. Wood vs. metal.

Wood is so much warmer than metal.

Anyone who has done the all important/stupid frozen metal-tongue test (and I'm not saying I have) knows that wood, even when frozen solid, simply does not have the sticking power of super-cooled metal.

A definite plus for the wood argument.

Let's go with that.

So. A wood-carving elf.

Now, how can we make him (or her) special.

And at the same time make his (all right, I've decided he's a guy) accomplishment just a bit . . . tougher. Harder to imagine.

Or believe.

We'll give him a handicap.

Something to overcome.

Something that will make his achievement that much more astounding.

Age?

Good.

Infirmity?

Better.

Blind?

Perfect.

And we'll drag in his tiny little granddaughter because she is so sweet and cute and because she is equally handicapped by age.

And because we need someone to help on the rare occasions when our carver actually needs to 'see'.

So now, all we need is a bit of background: A former career as Santa's chief carver, followed by ten years of despair.

And the story is set.

Carving Angels is born.

About the book:

Carving Angels

Book Details:
Publisher: Cedar Fort, Inc.
Published: September 2011
Genre: Children, ages 9-12
Format: hardcover
Price: $12.99
Buy Links: Amazon, Barnes&Noble.com

Blurb:
Papa Adam, an elderly elf and former chief carver for Santa, has given up. Blind, frail and useless, he counts the minutes in every day as he waits to die.

But a challenge to carve, given by his youngest granddaughter, reawakens Papa Adam. Helps him to realize that he is not finished. And definitely not useless.

The two of them, the 'marginal' oldest and youngest members of North Pole society, begin a remarkable project that will change their community forever. Prove that the most paralyzing thing you can do is underestimate or undervalue anyone, especially yourself.

And that with the right love and encouragement, anything is possible.

About the Author Diane Stringam Tolley:

Diane Stringam Tolley was born and raised on a ranch in Southern Alberta, Canada. Educated in Journalism, she is the author of countless articles and short stories and 4 e-books including a novel for young adults, Essence. She and her husband, Grant are the parents of six children and live in Beaumont, Alberta, Canada.

Connect with Diane:
Blog
Author Web Site
Book Web Site
Facebook
Twitter

"Chicago marketing" Straight North $50 gift card give-a-way...CONTEST CLOSED

2011-12-08T16:24:00.004-06:00

Just in time for Christmas Straight North a Chicago marketing company is giving one lucky reader a $50 a gift card redeemable for a gift card of your choice at icardgiftcard.com

Straight North is a Chicago-based internet marketing and web design company. They provide many services which include internet marketing, webites and branding. You can find them on FB and Twitter.

To be entered in the give-a-way follow Straight North on twitter or like on FB. Leave a comment telling me which one you did. Be sure to leave your email addy, FB name or Twitter handle. Contest opened to US residents 18 or older. Contest ends Sunday December 11th. Winner will receive the gift card redemption code from Straight North within two days after contest closes.

Disclosure: I received a $50 gift card from Straight North for hosting this give-a-way.

CONTEST CLOSED! WINNER WILL BE NOTIFIED AND ANNOUNCED LATER ON TODAY...THANKS TO ALL WHO ENTERED.

Friday Fiction: A SEASONS FOR MIRACLES

2011-12-02T05:03:00.002-06:00

This week I have the pleasure of hosting Friday Fiction.

This is part of a WIP

A SEASONS FOR MIRACLES

Maddie Pierce pulled her brown curls into a pony tail. She threw her hands up in the air.

“How could Pastor Fred just up and leave a week before Christmas?” She directed the rhetorical question toward her friend and colleague Rose.

“I...” Rose didn't get her sentence out before Maddie interrupted.

“Don't bother to answer the question Rose. We'll deal with what needs to be done.” Maddie was

exasperated. “How could Fred do this to the church, to me?”

Maddie flipped through the church directory. “There's got to be someone who can fill in

temporally,at least until the Baptist Association sends us a replacement.”

“Maddie, aren't you the Sunday school teacher?”

Maddie didn't like her friends tone.

“Yes, but Fred was suppose to help. I can't handle twenty preschoolers by myself!”

“Yes you can Maddie. If Jesus could feed the multitudes, you can handle twenty, out of control four and five year old's.” Rose let out a hearty laughter.

“Not funny Rose. Not funny.”

“Hey, I gotta run. I'm going to be late for my fitting.”

“Sure. See you later?”

“Of course. At dinner.”

“We'll talk then.”

She envied her friend. Rose was getting married in four weeks. Maddie knew she shouldn't, but she wished she was the one getting married.

****

She felt alone and in a lurch. With less than two weeks until Christmas, twenty screaming preschoolers and a church that was depending on her, Maddie needed a miracle.

She left her office and went into the decorated sanctuary. Huge live pine wreaths hung on the stained glass windows. Poinsettias lined the alter. Maddie stopped and took in all the beauty that surrounded her. The scent of Christmas floated in the air. She inhaled the sweet, strong smell of cinnamon.

Maddie made her way to the decorated alter. A feeling of sadness overwhelmed her. The tears

began fall. Maddie knelt on the alter steps. “Lord, I am at my wits end. I really need your help. I really need a miracle right now.”

She was deep in thought and didn't hear the door to the sanctuary open or the footsteps approaching the alter.

****

Joe pulled his car into the space reserved for the pastor. “Well Lord, I'm here. Now what?” He

turned off the ignition and exited the vehicle. The church was small, but not tiny. It looked old. Joe paused before entering the building.

He didn't see any other vehicles and was thankful. He wanted to get settled before meeting the

parishioners. Joe proceeded inside and stopped. His gaze locked onto a figure kneeling at the alter. He wasn't alone. Someone else was in the church.

****

Maddie blew out the candle and wiped her tears away. “Lord, I'm leaving it in your hands.”

A wonderful, peaceful feeling came over her. Maddie got up, turned around and almost ran into Joe.

Her face turned beet red. “Oh, I'm sorry,”she stammered. “I... thought I was alone.”

“No need to apologize,” Joe extended his hand. “I'm the new pastor, Joe Walker.”

“Pastor?”

“Yes. I'm filling in for Pastor Fred until after Christmas.”

Maddie felt awkward standing in front of a stranger, even if he was pastor.

“I'm Maddie Pierce, the Sunday school teacher.”

“Nice to meet you Maddie.”

“I didn't know Pastor Fred's replacement would be coming this soon?”

“I didn't know myself,”Joe laughed to ease the tension.

“Where are my manners? Let me show you to Pastor Fred's office. I mean your office.”

Maddie led Joe down the corridor to what would be his temporary home for the next five

weeks.

“This is it. It's not much. If you need anything I'll be in the Sunday school room down the hall

to the left.”

“Thank you Maddie. I think I can manage.”

“Oh, OK.”

What was she thinking, of course he could manage. He was a pastor.

****

Joe was left to settle into his new office and his new position. The office was cramped, not much moving

around room. It was decorated with elements of Christmas and the Lord's Supper hung behind the mahogany

desk. The office wasn't what he was used to, but it was where the Lord had led him.

He lit a cinnamon scented candle and sat down in the leather chair. “Lord, thank for this wonderful opportunity and blessings. Amen.” Joe examined Pastor Fred's sermon notes. The writing was illegible.

Joe tried to focus on the words the former pastor had written down, but his thoughts drifted to the pretty Sunday school teacher down the hall. He tossed the papers on the desk and made his way down the hall to the preschool classroom. Joe prayed Mattie wouldn't mind the intrusion.

****

Maddie stood in the middle of twenty hyper preschoolers all vying for her undivided attention.

Lord give me patience.

“Miss Mattie. Miss Mattie. Pick me. Pick me,” the young voices echoed.

“Knock knock.”

Mattie tensed at the sound of Joe's deep voice. The children quietened down when Joe entered

the room.

“Pastor Joe, what a pleasant surprise. Come in and meet the children.”

“I hope you don't mind? I wanted to meet our little ones.”

“Of course not. Children, let's show our new pastor what we've learned.”

The children settled down and formed a circle around Mattie.

Joe grabbed a nearby chair and waited for the children to begin.

Mattie was nervous. She twisted her ponytail. They had practiced at least a dozen times, but never performed in front of a stranger. She clapped her hands twice to get the children's attention.

“Alright children, let's begin.”

Mattie pressed the play button on the CD player and music filled the small Sunday school room. The preschoolers lined up in front of her and started to sing. Mattie's nerves calmed once the children began. Their squeaky voices rose above the music. Blessed baby Jesus. Blessed baby Jesus. Oh how we adore you. Oh how we love you. They repeated the tune twice before Mattie switched off the music.

Her faced beamed with joy. She was so proud of her little group.

“OK class, criss cross applesauce.” And with that direction the preschoolers sat cross-legged

on the stained-glass colored carpet.

Mattie walked over to where Joe was seated.

He embraced her.

“Amazing!”

“Thank you.”

“How do you get them to cooperate?”

Mattie fumbled her words. “I... I guess they just like me.”

“Well, of course they do and you're doing a wonderful job with them.”

Parents began to filter in and they didn't get a chance to finish their private conversation.

“Come on. I'll introduce you to the parents of our littlest members.”

****

Mattie watched Joe embrace each parent as if he'd known them forever. He was a handsome

man. Not too tall, maybe five nine. His dark brown hair was cut short and neat and his eyes...

His eyes were an incomprehensible shade of blue.

The parent's seemed to like him and the children gravitated toward him. Mattie had found

her assistant, Pastor Joe Walker. She would enlist his help with the pageant. Mattie prayed Joe

would accept the challenge.

****

After the parent's left with Mattie's little charges she and Joe were the only ones left in the

church. She busied herself and began to straighten up things.

“Here, let me help.”

“Thanks Pastor Joe.”

“Please call me Joe.”

“OK.”

They continued putting things away.

“Maddie if you don't mind me asking, how long have you been teaching the little ones?”

“No, of course not. I got my position right after Thanksgiving.”

“So, only a few weeks then?”

“Yes. I got hired right after Miss Peggy became ill.”

“Miss Peggy?”

“Pastor Fred's sister.”

“Oh, I'm sorry to hear that.”

“Huh?”

He laughed. “I meant I'm sorry to hear about Miss Peggy.”

“She became ill about a week before Thanksgiving and Pastor Fred ask me to take over.”

“I could see how much you enjoyed working with the preschoolers.”

Mattie's face lit up. “Oh yes! It's very fulfilling.”

“Mattie, I have another question. Where will I stay?”

“Stay?”

“Yes. I didn't see a parsonage.”

“There isn't one. Pastor Fred lived with his sister. There's never been a need.”

“I guess I could stay at the motel.”

Mattie shook her head. “There's not one. Sorry.”

“I guess I wasn't prepared.”

“I'm getting ready to head home. Why don't you join me and my folks for dinner?”

“Mattie, I couldn't impose.”

“It's not an imposition. My folks would love to meet the new pastor and we could figure out

where you could stay.”

“Are you sure?”

You can read more here

Touchdown Tuesday: Put Me In Coach

2011-11-29T16:28:00.000-06:00

In your relationships with one another, have the same attitude of mind Christ Jesus had: Philippians 2:5 NIV

Living in the South I happen to be a big college football fan. When I sit down today to write this post I wasn't sure where the Lord would take me. Well He led me to football. You may be wondering how is football related to Christianity?

Here's the game plan:

God is the head coach

Jesus is the quarterback

We are the players, the cheerleaders and spectators. Which are you?

The spectators watch all the action from the bleachers. Spectators love to watch the game. It's exciting, but they don't really want any of the action. Well, let me tell you spectator up in the stands God is the head coach and it's time to come down from the bleachers and get into the game of life. Your purpose is to be part of the game. It's not just a spectator sport. Your position is wherever God(the coach)places you , but your main job is to protect the quarterback.

The cheerleaders get all excited when the players score, but aren't really part of the action. Don't get me wrong it's OK to be a cheerleader for your team, but the coach expects more than a few cheers from the sidelines. Your main cheer should be "Way to go Jesus! Beat Satan!"

The players are involved in most of the action, but the quarterback is the key player and the team members are suppose to protect Him. You have to focus on the opposing team(Satan) and provide the extra protection your team captain needs. In order to win the game of Christianity you have to be able to work together as a team and if your mind isn't focused you will lose. God doesn't want you to lose. It's His job to make sure His entire team is focused on the plays. The defense protects. The offense directs.

Protect Jesus by providing the winning plays. You will need to wear your battle gear. Faith above all things can win the victory.

Direct your teammates to Jesus. Make sure they are running in the right direction toward the winning goal. You want them to score for your team. Christianity will come out the victor if you are a team player.

Don't sit in the bleachers, don't cheer from the sidelines....BE A TEAM PLAYER!

Manna Monday: The Five W's of Charity

2011-11-28T15:31:00.000-06:00

Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part But when completeness comes, what is in part disappears. When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me. For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love. 1 Corinthians 13:4-13 KJV

The "Love" verse has to be my favorite bible verse. It was read at my wedding, as it is at many weddings. I've never really thought about the verse on terms of charity. The KJV is the only bible to mention charity in place of love, but is it really?

I can remember my grandmother always told me "charity begins at home". I never thought about love and charity in the same thought. To me charity is giving to someone less deserving than myself, I didn't realize charity is actually a great act of love and kindness.

Yes, charity does begin at home, but it also begins with you!

I want to look at what I call the 5 W's of charity.

Who: Who does charity begin with? It begins with you. As a Christian you know your heart should be charitable. You know you should love everyone and be Christ-like. There should never be any doubt or deception in your heart. I Timothy 1:5-6 should be a verse you should carry with you daily. It is one of the most important verses you will need in order to be charitable. The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith. Some have departed from these and have turned to meaningless talk..I Timothy 1:5-6 KJV. Remember to have a pure heart, a good conscience and sincere faith and only then will you be able to give charity to those less deserving without reservation or question. Be of a charitable nature.

What: What is charity? Charity is love in its purest form. As a Christian you are to give it freely to those in need. Charity is one of the greatest gifts you were given. It is the bond of perfectness. You are to strive to be Christ-like,but you cannot if you do not share charity with those who are broken or lost. And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. Colossians 3:14 KJV. When you go out of your way to give charity you will receive charity. Be of a charitable spirit.

When: When do you give charity? This can be a difficult question to answer. Sometimes I find I am not always in a charitable mood. Of course it's not the Christian way, but I am human as we all are and some days being charitable is the last thing on our list. I know I don't always show the love to others as I should. And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. II Peter 1:7 KJV. This verse speaks volumes. It is the heart of your charity. It should speak to your heart when you don't feel very charitable or feel like "why should I even bother?" then turn to II Peter 1:7 for the answer. Be of a charitable kind.

Where: Where do you give charity? The answer is simple. EVERYWHERE! Wherever you go be of a charitable nature. Show goodwill toward your fellow man. Show your Christian faith. Show that you can be Christ-like. But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience...2 Timothy 3:10 KJV. You know as a Christian charity should be your manner of life. It is your main purpose. Charity is part of your faith. Jesus suffered for our sins, but God loved us so much He gave us His son. He was being charitable and expects no less from us. Be of a charitable manner.

Why: Why should you be charitable? I Peter 4:8 is your answer. And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins. Charity(love) covers it all. When Jesus died for our sins He had the most fervent charity as should we among our fellow mankind. Our sins were erased by the charity Jesus showed us. We need to show that same charity throughout our lives. Love is the greatest eraser of any sin. The why of charity is the most important w. It is the reason we are here today. It is our purpose. We must fulfill that purpose by showing the same charity. Be of a charitable conscience.

Sermon Sunday:To Tithe or Not to Tithe? This is the Question

2011-11-27T18:29:00.000-06:00

Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. Malachi 3:10 KJV

To tithe or not to tithe? That is the question many faithful, but struggling Christians are asking themselves in the current economical confusion.

For some 10% takes a big chunk from their income. For others their is nothing left to give. How can or do you justify giving ten percent of your "barely-can-make-ends-meet" income?

Three things happen when you tithe:

You increase in faith:
But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. Hebrews 11:6 KJV

Without faith in the Lord you cannot fulfill what is asked of you. When the Lord commands you to tithe you cannot do so with a unwilling spirit. You must give in faith. Trust in the Lord with the faith of the mustard seed. With faith nothing is impossible. See Matthew 17:20 KJV.

You increase in blessings:
And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work: 2 Corinthians 9:8 KJV

When you tithe as required the Lord will bless you in all you do. All His grace will abound toward you. You will have sufficiency in all things, whether great or small. Blessings come in many forms and when you tithe you will reap the harvest of what you have (put in) given to the Lord. See Galatians 6:9 KJV.

You increase in thanksgiving:

In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 KJV

You may ask yourself how you can increase in thanksgiving by tithing when you can barely make ends meet? This question leads back to the topic question: to tithe or not to tithe? When you live 'hand to mouth' it can be a very difficult and trying decision to give up 10% of your only means of support. I know I struggle with the aspect of "giving" even 10% because of my family's financial situation, but I know also the Lord commands I do so. I also know by tithing I will increase in my thanksgiving. In every circumstance I must be thankful. In every circumstance I must tithe because it is what is expected as a child of God. See II Corinthians 9:11 KJV

Three things to remember about tithing:

God commands it: Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come. I Corinthians 16:2 KJV
God expects it: Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase: So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine. Proverbs 3:9-10 KJV
God requires it: And keep the charge of the LORD thy God, to walk in his ways, to keep his statutes, and his commandments, and his judgments, and his testimonies, as it is written in the law of Moses, that thou mayest prosper in all that thou doest, and whithersoever thou turnest thyself: I Kings 2:3 KJV

God has given you specific instructions about tithing. All you have to do is pick up the bible and read the verses I've mentioned. If you doubt you should tithe, then ask the Lord. He has the answer to the question 'to tithe or not to tithe?'

Carving Angels Blog tour with Diane Tolley November 28th-Dec 10th

2011-11-27T02:04:00.004-06:00

Join Canadian author Diane Stringam Tolley on her virtual book tour as she talks about her book Carving Angels. Diane will be my special spotlight guest author December 10th. Be sure to stop by and join Diane.

Here is a brief description of the book:

Papa Adam, the North Pole’s oldest elf and Santa’s former chief carver, has given up. Blind, frail, and feeling useless, he counts the minutes in every day waiting for the end—until his youngest granddaughter challenges him to carve again. Together they prove that the most beautiful creations can come from the most unlikely sources and with the right love and encouragement, anything is possible.

Mama Liked the Roses

2011-11-21T07:42:00.000-06:00

After a few week's on hiatus I am back for the Indie Ink weekly challenge. For the IndieInk Writing Challenge this week, Mary Terrani challenged me with "Keep love in your heart. A life without it is like a sunless garden when the flowers are dead."Oscar Wilde and I challenged Daily Shorts with "More than minds comprehend".

Here is my challenge answer:

Mama Likes the Roses

My mama love two things in her life; Elvis Presley and roses. Every time I hear the song 'Mama Likes the Roses' by Elvis Presley my mind wanders to my childhood and my deep Southern roots.

I can still hear my mothers voice float through the brambles of her rose garden. "Darlin', keep love in your heart. A life without it is like a sunless garden when the flowers are dead."

I didn't understand what my mother meant until she was gone. I inherited her sense of beauty, but not her green thumb. Her beautiful rose garden stands barren and isolated. I haven't stepped inside the garden gates since she died. It's been too painful. Her beautiful roses have wilted and withered away like love in the winter.

When she died, her roses died. Love also died.

I no longer had love in my heart. It has withered like her beautiful roses. My heart is like a stone garden. It cannot be penetrated. My flowers are now dead. There is no more beauty within my garden walls. I am a sunless garden.

Darlin, keep love in your heart....

My Top Ten Reasons I Don't Finish NaNoWriMo

2011-11-14T06:22:00.001-06:00

Every year I sign up for NaNo and every year I never finish. It's not that I don't want to write a novel. I have three unfinished WIP's sitting collecting dust.

I have a top ten list why I never finish and collect my winner's badge:

10. I procrastinate.
9. Fear.
8. I always stop to edit.
7. I get bored with the current project.
6. My mind goes blank.
5. Life.
4. Laziness.
3. Doubt.
2. Consistency.

AND THE NUMBER 1 REASON:
Me!

I have to admit I'm my number one downfall when it comes to sticking with a writing goal. It's not that I don't want to write, it's I find excuses not to write. I have been writing something daily, but not on my WIP. I'm not sure why I sabotage myself? Is it a deep-seated proclivity? Probably. I suffer from fear of failure and fear of success.

My fear of failure stems from the many rejections I've received throughout my writing career. I realize rejection is part of the publishing game, but I can never wrap my senses around the fact I fail at something I love to do.

I also have a fear of success. I know, who doesn't want to be successful? I do, but then some days I don't. I guess it's part of my fear of failure. I freeze up when I start to talk about my publishing credits or I don't even talk about them at all. My family gives me more accolade's than I give myself.

My fears are real and tend to get worse every NaNo season. Will I ever complete the task? I don't know. I am too far behind in the race to catch up. I might finish my WIP, but not full speed ahead.

Look for me again next NaNoWriMo for I am a glutton for punishment!

Take the Hormel Country Crock "Side Dish Challenge" - Review & Giveaway Opportunity

2011-11-12T03:59:00.010-06:00

With the holiday's right around the corner preparing a meal for relatives can be hectic and time consuming. When I was contacted by Hormel Country Crock Brand's to participate in the "Take the Hormel Country Crock "Side Dish Challenge" - Review & Giveaway" I jumped at the opportunity. Anything to make cooking less of a chore.

I chose these side dishes:

Hormel Country Crock Side Dish Elbow Macaroni & Cheese.
This delicious side dish is just like homemade. It reminds me of my mom's mac & cheese. It a family favorite and a winner with my grandson!

Hormel Country Crock Side Dish Cinnamon Apples. This aromatic side dish reminds me homemade apple pie. The smells of cinnamon and apples filled my kitchen with a mouth-watering aroma. This dish is number 1 on my list as the perfect side dish to complement any holiday meal!

Hormel Country Crock Side Dish Cheddar Broccoli Rice. My grandson is not a broccoli eater, but with the delicious taste of cheddar mixed with rice and broccoli he digs in and always ask for seconds!

Hormel Country Crock Side Dish Loaded Mashed Potatoes. Being from the South my family loves homemade mashed potatoes. This side dish is a great way to get that homemade taste. We love these loaded mashed potatoes!

For the main course meat I chose a spiral cut ham. It's one of my family's favorite and Hormel Country Crock Side Dishes complemented the main course just right!

Here's my family enjoying our scrumptious meal Hormel Country Crock provided.

I am also giving one lucky reader a chance to win four (4) $3.50-off Hormel™ Country Crock® side dishes coupons to help make their holiday meals a cinch to prepare – valued at nearly $20!

Just leave a comment on what Hormel Country Crock Side Dish you want to try most or how it would help you make holidays easier. Contest US only. Ends November 30th.

Disclaimer: I did not receive any compensation for this review. Hormel provided (4) $3.50 off coupons to purchase my sides and a $25 American Express gift card to purchase the meat of my choice.

Friday Fiction: Change of Plans prologue page 1

2011-11-11T14:49:00.000-06:00

This week's FF is hosted over at Pod Tales

This is the prologue of my WIP

Positive. Zelda starred at the bright pink plus signed etched onto the store-bought pregnancy test. Pregnant. Her mind froze. She couldn't possibly be pregnant. She didn't feel pregnant. Didn't she and Howard always take precautionary measures?

Zelda double-checked the stick again. The pink plus sign was still there. She wrapped the unwanted evidence in tissue and tossed it into the waste basket. Pregnant. The word kept echoing in her confused mind. Zelda had to be sure. She grabbed her cell phone and punched in her gynecologist's number.

“Dr. Warren's office. Connie speaking, how may I help you?”

Connie Peters had always been aloof with Zelda although they had gone to high school together. She would thrive on the possibility Zelda might be pregnant.

“Hi Connie, this is Zelda Zimmerman. I need to schedule an appointment with Dr. Warren as soon as possible, please.”

“O.K. What's the nature of the visit?”

Zelda didn't want the words to escape her thoughts. Once she actually said them to someone else it might be true.

“Ms Zimmerman, are you still there?”

Zelda's mind went blank. She couldn't do it.

“Zelda?”

The sound of Connie's sweet syrupy voice brought Zelda back to reality.

“Yes, I'm still here Connie. I need to get a pregnancy test.”

Once the words were out of her mouth Zelda couldn't take them back. They were etched in stone. The words stung her tongue.

Connie didn't seem to hesitant on the other end.

“Dr. Warren can squeeze you in this afternoon around three o'clock”

This afternoon at three. What would Howard think if she were pregnant?

“That's fine Connie. I'll be there.”

Friday Fiction- Picture Book: Can You Guess What Animal I Am?

2011-11-05T12:04:00.000-05:00

This week's FF is hosted by Sara over at Fiction Fusion

CAN YOU GUESS WHAT ANIMAL I AM?

Debra Elliott

I have black and white stripes.