A Trip to Remember – Memorial Day Weekend 2012

We never talked much when I was a teenager back in the seventies. Truthfully we never talked at all—yet he always intrigued me. He, being a wild game hunter, professional writer, and childless, had no familiarity with the mind of an adolescent.  But this Memorial Day, on some strange level, we seemed to connect.

My family made the four hour drive to Ingram, Texas to visit my eighty-five year old aunt and uncle at their sixty-five acre piece of heaven etched into the side of a hill. Twenty years of improvements have turned the rocky hillside into a paradise for man and beast alike. The house, an homage to guns, knives and big game mounts from around the world is a feast for the eyes. My aunt, as feisty as ever, offers her home to us to use as our own.

The ravages of old age have reduced the once virile hunter to a man dependent on an oxygen tank for every breath. As we sat on the veranda overlooking Johnson Creek I talked to my uncle about writing…his favorite subject. He told stories about writing for such hunting magazine giants as Sports Afield and Guns and Ammo back in the heyday of the fifties and sixties. He said he once walked into the offices of one of the largest magazine publishers in New York and was able to meet with three of their editors. He laughed at the idea of doing something as audacious as that nowadays.

My uncle admitted that even though he’d written the top selling book on hunting white tail deer (of all time); he had never been able to write fiction. I felt for a moment to have one up on the old man as fiction is my specialty. He said that with the surplus of great fiction authors in the business it’s next to impossible to get a novel published. I wanted to disagree with that, but my part in the conversation was more of a listener than a contributor.

The visit to Ingram turned out to be a very good thing. The kids participated in activities that are impossible in our part of the world. They caught bass from the pond and ate them that night. They saw a heard of axis deer with their young. And they spent a lot of time talking to their great aunt and uncle learning things that can’t be obtained at any university.

I hope to go back and see my aunt and uncle again. I hope to have the opportunity to learn more from the man my kids have nicknamed, The Most Interesting Man Alive. But I’ll have to do it soon…because time is running out.

Lord God Creator!

My precious husband had many interesting jobs as a young man. Once he even worked in a pet store. His primary job was “fish-man.” For that reason, I have always been blessed to have beautiful saltwater aquariums in my living room. Marine fish, in my opinion, are perhaps the most glorious and curious creatures in all of God’s creation. The magnificent colors and shapes of these fish are a sight to behold.

Yahweh Borey is powerful name for God that means...Lord Creator

“Have you not known? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the creator of the ends of the earth.” Isaiah 40:28

My all-time favorite marine fish in called the Mandarin Goby. The picture above can’t possibly do it justice. It’s as though God crossed a fish with a tropical frog and then crossed that with a Chinese kite! I am truly in awe when I gaze upon the beauty of this fish.

Just to think that God in all His glory took the time to create each and every fish in His own unique way is practically mind boggling. There are only five different species of fish in my aquarium at this time. My imagination can’t fathom how God in His magnificence, created thousands upon thousands more; each one a masterpiece to behold.

“In His hand are the depths of the earth; the heights of the mountains are his also. The sea is His, for He made it, and His hands formed the dry land.” Psalm 95:4-5

Take time today to praise the Creator of all…Yahweh Borey!

Interview With Janice Hannah Thompson

I recently learned that many of my reader friends are fans of comedic Christian author, Janice Hanna Thompson. Janice, I'm happy to say, is also a very good friend of mine! It is my pleasure to share this interview with Janice, telling what's currently going on in this writer's life. Did you know Janice has a brand new book coming out on May 1, 2012? (Available now in E-book format) Read on and find out all about it!

Who (or what) influenced you to become a writer?

From the time I was a little girl, I always had a creative bent. I loved to sing and dance. I got involved with drama in high school and ended up writing a little play, which we performed. In the late 70s my father moved our family to Los Angeles so that he could get into the movie business, (as a producer). He encouraged me to co-author a screenplay, which I did. In fact, I joined the screenwriter’s guild at age 18. Quite an honor! After I got married and had my children, they showed an interest in theater, too, so I ended up directing and writing musicals for Curtain Call Café (a Christian theater group). From there, my interests spread to books, and I started publishing fiction for the Christian market. I’ve now published over 80 books, everything from inspirational romance to non-fiction devotionals. I would have to say that my father was a huge influence. He passed away in ’06, but did a lot of writing in his lifetime (both screenplays and lyrics to country songs).

Janice, can you tell us about your latest book project?

Yes, I’m so tickled to share the news about my comedic historical, WEDDING BELLES, which is releasing on May 1st. Most of my readers know that I love to write light-hearted tales, and this one is no different!

What is the story behind this book?

I received a call from editor Susan Downs, who shared an idea she had for a series of books titled “Belles and Whistles.” The books in this series, she explained, must be historical, set in the west, with funny, quirky female characters. Because I write romantic comedy, she thought I would be perfect. I quickly put together a proposal for six books and two were picked up right away: WEDDING BELLES and SLEIGH BELLES. I was commissioned to write WEDDING BELLES first and had a blast doing so! The basic premise for the book was developed before I started writing, but something significant happened along the way to change my plans drastically. I needed a sneaky reason for Lottie Sanders (my heroine) to bring a group of women to Estes Park Colorado as potential brides for the town’s men. About a week after I got the contract for this book I went to a local restaurant that happened to be hosting a melodrama during the dinner hour. As I watched the drama take place, I realized this was my answer! Lottie would write and direct a melodrama to raise funds for Parker Lodge (owned by the young man she secretly loves). Out of that came the rest of this fun, melodramatic tale!

Can you share the “official” synopsis?

Lottie Sanders would do just about anything for the man she secretly loves. When Gilbert Parker suggests they put on a play to draw people to his family’s lodge, he begs Lottie to direct it. Lottie agrees to help, but is also worried if they cannot pull this off, Gilbert and his family will lose the lodge — and she will lose him. When the local single men look at this as an opportunity to catch a bride, they secretly hatch their own drama to win the hearts and hands of the actresses.

Why did you choose to write this book under the name Janice Hanna, instead of Janice Thompson?

Ooo, great question! I write most of my contemporary novels (like the WEDDINGS BY BELLA series) under Thompson and historicals (like the LOVE FINDS YOU books) under Hanna. My maiden name is Hanna, and I love to write under that name to honor my father, who passed away in ’06. I think he would have been very proud of this particular book.

Is there any connection between the WEDDINGS BY BELLA series and this one?

Nope. None whatsoever. Just an interesting coincidence with the titles/names.

What’s the deal with the wedding stories? Why do you write so many books with wedding themes?

My four daughters (all in their late 20s/early 30s) got married within four years of each other. Talk about wedding chaos! At writer’s conferences I’ve been told to “write what you know” and I certainly know weddings. I worked for a short while as a wedding coordinator and have catered many a wedding and/or bridal shower. It just makes sense to keep my writing wedding-themed, as much as possible!

What are Reviewers saying about WEDDING BELLES?

I just found out that Romantic Times gave the book a four-star rating. Woo-hoo! Here’s what the reviewer said:

Hanna’s Belles and Whistles series launch is filled with mayhem, drama and, of course, romance. The characters are engaging, witty and willing to do what they need to get what they want. Hanna’s magical touch ensures the book brims with laughter, charm and style.

Reviewed By: Patsy Glans

What outside interests do you have?

People might be surprised to hear this, but I bake cakes. Wedding cakes. Shower cakes. Birthday cakes. You name it, I bake it. In fact, I was once asked by a local restaurant to bake cakes for them.

Cute cover! What’s the story behind it?

My heroine, Lottie, is a tomboy. She’s not much for dresses. In fact, she wears pants most of the time. The men in Estes Park make it their mission to get Lottie “gussied up and lookin’ like a lady” as the story progresses. Of course, she’s still pretty attached to her cowgirl boots, so giving those up isn’t an option. I love the cover, because it merges the boots with the wedding dress.

How much research went into this story?

I drove to Estes Park while working on this book. Even though I had been many times before, I needed to see the area again so that I could envision it through Lottie’s eyes. The wonderful people at the Estes Park Museum spent a great deal of time with me, talking about the history of the area and pointing me to just the right research books to write. So, I would like to think I’ve got most of the historical elements right. I added the Stanley Hotel, of course, and the Stanley Steamer. But the setting for my story is Parker Lodge (which is completely fictional). Because I’m passionate about photography, I took dozens of pictures of the area. I particularly enjoy my trek up into Rocky Mountain National Park, where I did my best to absorb all I could about the scenery.

What are some of the most interesting things you found about this subject that you weren’t able to use in the story?

I learned a lot about the health benefits of living in Colorado! Did you know that Freelan Stanley (the man who designed/built the Stanley Hotel) came to Colorado at his doctor’s recommendation because he had tuberculosis? His health improved dramatically while in Estes Park.

What inspired and surprised you while you were writing the book?

I was directly inspired by the team of actors and actresses (here in Texas) who performed the melodrama. That little “spark” of inspiration completely changed the layout of my story and allowed me to tap into one of my strengths: directing. Many people don’t know that I spend part of my time working as a director at a local Christian theater and I love anything and everything about putting on shows.

What do you hope the reader takes away from the story?

Two things: I hope they see Lottie as the precious girl she is. I also hope they learn that perceptions are just that. . .perceptions. They’re not fact. Sometimes we look at situations and think we’ve got them figured out. When we give them a second look (and a third) we realize we were dead wrong.

What is the next project you’re working on?

I’m currently writing a novel titled LET THEM EAT CAKE, which is part of the new WEDDINGS BY DESIGN series from Revell Publishing. Many of my readers know me as the “Bella” author (from the WEDDINGS BY BELLA series). In this new series, readers can catch up with Bella, DJ and the whole gang!

What do you do when you have to get away from the story for a while?

I spend time with my grandbabies. I have six darling grandbabies with number seven on the way.

God has really been moving in your writing life. What do you see on the horizon?

I feel so incredibly blessed at this particular season in my life. I’ve been through several hard things over the past several years, but through it all, God has been right there, walking me through one book project, then another. He has used the writing to bring healing in so many areas, and I’m so grateful for that! I’ve made Ephesians 3:20 – 21 my life verse:  Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. God IS able to do so much more than I could ask or think, and He keeps proving that to me. In spite of any weakness on my part (and there’s plenty, trust me), He entrusts me with this gift (writing). I will use it to His glory as long as He allows.

Please give us the first page of the book.

A Reckoning in the Rockies

Estes Park, prepare to be razzle-dazzled! Parker Lodge, located on the beautiful Fall River, continues to offer the best entertainment in town. This month’s event is certainly no exception. Join us this coming Friday evening, April 27, for a rousing performance by local musician Jeb Otis, who will play several well-known ballads and folk tunes on his saw. Otis, who hails from the Estes Valley region, will be appear- ing at the lodge for one night only, performing before a packed house. C’mon out and share in an evening of fine food, rousing entertain- ment, and heartfelt fellowship. Front-row seating for the first ten guests to arrive. —Your friends at Parker Lodge

Estes Park, Colorado, 1912

“Jeb Otis says he’s going to jump off Longs Peak and end it all.” “What?” Lottie Sanders looked up from the rippling waters of Fall River into her boss’s worried eyes. “He’s going to end it all? Why-ever would he do that?”


“Oh, you know how he is.” Gilbert Parker plopped down next to her and sighed. “Melodramatic. Always wanting attention. Just like the other men in this town. He’s frustrated because the Widow Baker won’t give him the time of day, so I guess this is how he plans to remedy the problem.”

“He’s going to remedy the problem by taking his life?” Lottie swallowed hard. “Won’t that defeat the purpose?”

“Who knows?” Gilbert offered a little shrug, and a hint of a smile turned up the edges of his lips. “But if it’s any consolation, I reminded him that he’s got a concert coming up this Friday evening, so maybe he’ll wait till after then to do himself in.”

“One can hope.” Lottie thought about the many times Jeb and the other fellas who frequented the lodge had posed such ludicrous threats. How weary she’d grown of their antics. “What’s it going to take to convince Jeb that he and Althea Baker are as different as night from day, anyway?” she asked. “They would make a terrible match. I’m surprised he can’t see that for himself.”

“True.” Gilbert released a sigh. “But I guess it’s true what they say—love is blind.”

“Mm-hmm.” It’s blind, all right.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

My website: www.janicehannathompson.com

Facebook: Janice Hanna Thompson

Twitter: booksbyjanice

My online courses: www.freelancewritingcourses.com

Where can readers buy this book?

They can email me for an autographed copy: booksbyjanice@aol.com. They can also purchase online at Amazon, Barnes and Noble or Christianbook.com

The Little Things In Life That Matter

Today I welcome guest blogger, Jane Lyles; an educator, a Christian, a friend.

On Saturday, my daughter and I went out shopping. It was just our usual trip not looking for anything in particular and not really looking for anything special just getting out spending a little time together.

One of our stops was the Family Christian Store and as we were looking at some things we heard a mom say to her daughters, " Leave those bracelets on the table." As they laid them on the table another lady walked to the table and said, "It's okay mom I paid for them," and she quietly walked away. The two young ladies with their mom's permission ran to the other lady and hugged her and as they were leaving their mom told the other lady to have a blessed day.

Ash and I were speechless. Dear Ash was saying, "Don't cry mom if you cry mom I'll cry mom and I'm about to.” So, I just wiped my tears away and then we had one of those sweet conversations in the car about the kindness of strangers and how we are called to serve and bless others we may not know.

Just have to say "Isn't God Good!" and isn't that how His love is. He paid for our sins without expecting anything in return. Putting your faith in Him will change you and as my son once told me if you were the only person on earth Jesus would have died just for you.

Well, today is Palm Sunday and what a wonderful day in worship and in God's House. Although I had a devotional prepared today for children's choir that's not the path we followed during our weekly time in class. It began with Bucky telling me how much he enjoyed the music this morning and I asked if he had a favorite song and he said no I liked them all and I said me too. From there we discussed what the songs were about and Hannah said Jesus dying on the cross. We discussed what the kids could see on the power point and how it looked like wine on the slide that Jesus's lips were being wiped with and from there Mrs. Pam explained that it was vinegar and that was to hurt Jesus with and make him more thirsty. We discussed that because of his death on the cross we have hope and how to have that hope. Hannah explained that we just have to pray and explained how we pray. We also discussed how because of Jesus’ death we do not have to bring animal sacrifices to church. We discussed how the sacrifices were perfect and without blemish. Mrs. Pam explained the details in such a way that everyone could understand. We discussed how Jesus was the sacrifice for our sin. We also discussed what things would be like without his death, burial, and resurrection. Lillie said this world would be filled with all bad people and then we said we would have no hope. Jesus sacrificed his life, so that we have hope. It is my prayer that you have that hope and that you chose to worship our Savior each day that He blesses us with. Have a blessed Easter time as you reflect on the death and resurrection of Jesus, our Lord.

Photo Courtesy of: Paul M. McRae

What’s In A Name – The Names of God – RACHUM VE-CHANUN

Rachum Ve-Chanun is the name of God that means merciful and gracious.

            “The Lord, the Lord, a God merciful and gracious.” Exodus 34:6

My beloved pastor Don Harms had a saying he used time and again that I will never forget and will always love. The saying was his answer to what all people really deserve. It was, “Death, hell and the grave!”
I have to admit, I’ve used this phrase numerous times on my children whenever they tell me what they deserve.

God, on the other hand, doesn’t always give us what we deserve:

·         If He did, the Israelites would never have made it to the Promised Land
·         If He did, the 12 disciples might have changed after the first week
·         If He did, there would be a lot less grumbling and complaining
·         If He did, we would think twice before talking behind a friend’s back
·         If He did, most of us would probably have been taken out of this world a loooong time ago

But that’s not our God. Our God is Rachum Ve-Chanun; merciful and gracious. That’s why instead of giving us what we deserve, He gave us Jesus, His one and only Son.

“Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” Hebrews 4:16

What’s In A Name – The Names of God – ELOHIM

The name Elohim means God-Mighty, Strong, Prominent One

“Then Moses and the children of Israel sang this song to the Lord, and spoke, saying: ‘I will sing to the Lord, for He has triumphed gloriously! The horse and it’s rider He has thrown into the sea! The Lord is my strength and song and He has become my salvation; He is my God and I will praise Him; my father’s God, and I will exalt Him.’” Exodus 15:1-2

“Who is like You O Lord (ELOHIM), among the gods? Who is like You, glorious in holiness, fearful in praises, doing wonders?” Exodus 15:11

What an awesome tribute to the Lord. After all, He had just parted the Red Sea, led the children of Israel through on DRY ground, coaxed the entire Egyptian army in after them and if that wasn’t enough, He caused the waters to crash down killing most of Pharaoh’s army!

That’s my God, mighty, strong, the Prominent One! It makes my heart feel good that the children of Israel saw that great and mighty wonder and followed God, unquestioning for the rest of their journey into the Promised Land. Oh…wait…what does this say here in verse 23 and 24 of the same chapter?

            “Now when they came to Marah, they could not drink the waters of Marah, for they were bitter. Therefor the name of it was called Marah. And the people complained against Moses saying ‘What shall we drink?’”

And the people complained… Isn’t that the way it goes sometimes. We see the Lord work in our lives in some amazing way. We praise Him and give Him the glory for the great thing He’s done and in the next breath we’re complaining about some small thing that didn’t go our way.

“For the LORD your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great, the mighty, and the awesome God.” Deuteronomy 10:17

Lord, God Elohim, it is my prayer that I would always keep your great and mighty works in mind especially whenever I start to complain about the little things. Amen

Red sea photo courtesy of: http://www.flickr.com/photos/ammadoux/

What’s In A Name – The Names of God – RAV-CHESED

The name, Rav-Chesed, means Abounding in Love. The Hebrew word chesed means kindness or loving-kindness.

“And the Lord passed before him and proclaimed, ‘The Lord, the Lord God, merciful and gracious, long-suffering, and abounding in goodness and truth.’” Exodus 34:6

Way back in 1964 the Righteous Brothers sang about bringing back that loving feeling. I’m relatively sure they weren’t talking about the ‘chesed’ type love that comes from God Almighty. Chesed is love that suggests loyalty, faithfulness, a pledge or promise. Our God is abounding in love. He loves us with a greater purpose. And here’s the most amazing part…His love doesn’t require our love in return.

            “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! His faithful love endures forever.” Psalm 106:1

A songwriter by the name of Billy James Foote penned the song, Amazing love, You Are My King. This song reminds me of the boundless love of God when it says:

Amazing love
How can it be
That You, my King, should die for me?
Amazing love,
I know it’s true.
It’s my joy to honor You,
In all I do, I honor You.

“How precious is Your steadfast love, O God! The children of mankind take refuge in the shadow of your wings.” Psalm 36:7

Thank you Father, Rav-Chesed for Your unfailing love. The undeserving of this world continue to flourish and prosper, but You are unchanging in your constant, steadfast love for Your children. All praise and glory I give to You. Amen

Picture Courtesy of: Paul McRae