BLOG.BETHWISEMAN.NET

Follow the Amish to Colorado - New Series!

2010-03-07T22:48:00Z

I'm so excited to share about my new series! The first book - Seek Me with All Your Heart - will release in October 2010. Here's the press release I received from my publicist. What do you think? I love the cover!

BESTSELLING AUTHOR BETH WISEMAN FOLLOWS THE AMISH TO COLORADO WITH NEW FICTION SERIES.

In step with a real-life trend but ahead of the publishing curve, bestselling novelist Beth Wiseman heads West with her characters in a brand new series .

Launching this Fall:

NASHVILLE, TN--It's no secret that Amish culture--its fascinating simplicity--has captured the interest of America. ABC has devoted primetime television specials to Amish teens, and feature stories in publications like the Wall Street Journal have covered the wave of successful Amish novels published over the past several years, set in picturesque Lancaster County, Pennsylvania and other Eastern states. An Associated Press article published June 2009 marked a new development: a handful of Amish families migrating to Colorado to escape high land prices and overcrowding back East in more established communities. In step with the real-life trend but ahead of the publishing curve, bestselling novelist Beth Wiseman heads West with her characters in a brand new series launching this Fall.

"After visiting Monte Vista, Colorado, I knew this was the perfect setting for a new series--developing easily into the fictional town of Canaan. What an experience to take some of my key characters from the Daughters of the Promise series to Colorado, where they face the challenges of a new location and meet other Amish folks who have migrated to the area--somewhere much different than what they were used to in Lancaster County," said Wiseman.

The groundbreaking Land of Canaan series debuts with Seek Me With All Your Heart on October 2010 from Thomas Nelson, recently named the Christian retail industry's #1 fiction provider (2009 ECPA PubTrack data). In addition to the Colorado series, Wiseman will also continue penning her bestselling Daughters of the Promise series (alternating with Land of Canaan titles) and co-authored Amish novellas.

Fans of all things Amish, from books to recipes to tours of the beautiful communities, gather as a community and connect with the authors they love at AmishLiving.com.

Plain Paradise - CBD Bestseller!

2010-02-17T13:38:00Z

Wow. I'm super honored that Plain Paradise, book #4 in the Daughters of the Promise series, has hit the CBD Bestseller List weeks before the release date. Thank you SO much to all of you who have pre-ordered! Every book I write has a special place in my heart, for different reasons...so, I really shouldn't say this is my favorite. Psst....so don't tell anyone that it is!

Just in case you're new here or haven't seen the book trailer for Plain Paradise - please check it out. I can't wait for everyone to read it!

PLAIN PARADISE BOOK TRAILER - Click Here!

RELEASING IN TWO WEEKS!

Available for pre-order anywhere that books
are sold.

And this is just a fun little video that some of you might have already seen on other sites.

WHO IS BETH WISEMAN? Click here to watch the video!

Valentines Day Proposal On the Bridge

2010-02-15T13:41:00Z

Many of you followed the "Notes on the Bridge" story a while back. In case you weren't subscribed here then, I found an anonymous love letter on the bridge by my house several months ago. I never found out who wrote the note...it just disappeared one day. Since then, I've found lots of notes on the bridge - blessings to those who pass over the bridge, prayers for peace and contentment, prayers of thanks, prayers for loved ones who are sick or who have passed, and I even found a note for me and my husband - wishing us a happy anniversary. The bridge by my house has become a special place, and we go there often. This past Saturday night was very special on what I fondly refer to as "My Bridge." Before I explain, here's a couple of pics of the bridge. I've left many notes on this bridge myself.

	"My Bridge"
	We cross this bridge to get to our house.
	These are prayers that some of you sent for me to put on the bridge.
	Hubby helped!
	This is one that just showed up. I'll probably never know who put it there.
	The first note we found - an anonymous love letter.

Now, back to this past weekend. Many of you have also read about my best friend, Renee'. We've been friends for 30 years. On Nov. 22, her 23-year-old son, Brian, was hit by a drunk driver while changing a tire on the side of the road. Only by the Grace of God is he alive. Brian was in the hospital for over two months, lost all kidney function, continues to recover from multiple injuries, and...his baby was born during this time in another hospital. Do you believe in miracles? Renee' and I do. Brian went home from the hospital two weeks ago. He has a long road full of rehab, a kidney transplant in his future, and will have to learn to walk again and do many of the things we all take for granted. He has a loving wife and new baby, and his mother...my best friend...has been by his side constantly. Renee' is a gift from God for me - my angel on Earth. And these past few months have been the hardest of her life. SO, when her long-time boyfriend dropped to his knee this past weekend and proposed - there wasn't a dry eye on the bridge. He waited until just barely after midnight, so it would be Valentines Day, AND it was Renee's birthday. Patrick and I were invited along, and we captured this special moment.

	Awe. Look at her face. When he dropped to one knee, I'm pretty sure she knew it was coming!
	Look at his face as she managed to say 'yes'.
	Look over Renee's shoulder. See the note? Renee' thought we were just going to the bridge so she could leave a prayer for her son. Little did she know...

Renee' has been a single mom for a long time. She's been through something that we as mothers fear most - something happening to one of our children. She's now a grandma to Baby Braiden. Her son is at home and doing much better. And she has a great guy who
has vowed to love her for the rest of his life. I love happy endings.

Do you have a note or prayer you'd like me to put on my special bridge? If so, just send it to Beth Wiseman, P.O. Box 326, Fayetteville, TX 78940. I'll be happy to add your special prayer or note of encouragement or inspiration.

Blessings for a wonderful week!
Beth

Plain Paradise - First Chapter and Book Trailer

2010-02-02T22:31:00Z

Well, I'm not doing too good with my New Years Resolution - to blog more often. I'm so sorry! My intentions were good. There has been a lot going on, and I'm trying hard to stay on top of things...LOL.

Thanks to everyone for putting An Amish Gathering on the ECPA Bestseller List!

Plain Paradise, book #4 in the Daughters of the Promise series, will release in March, so if you would like to read the first chapter, click below:

Plain Paradise - Chapter One

To see the book trailer for Plain Paradise, click below:

Plain Paradise Book Trailer

Look forward to hearing what you think!

Many Blessings,
Beth

Plain Paradise - "Official" Back Cover Copy

2010-01-19T22:56:00Z

Hi Friends,

Plain Paradise, book #4 in the Daughters of the Promise series, goes to print on Friday, and today I received the 'final' back cover copy. What do you think?

Linda's Amish life seems like paradise. Until she finds out her family has been lying to her since the day of her birth.

Josie was just a frightened teenager when she left her baby in the care of an Old Order Amish couple in Lancaster County. Since then, seventeen years have passed and while many things have changed, one thing hasn't. Josie still longs to reconnect with her daughter Linda.

Linda is unaware of Josie--and is living an idyllic life within the Amish community. The bishop's grandson, Stephen, is courting her and she hopes that he will propose soon. But when her birth mother comes to Paradise, Linda finds herself drawn into the Englisch world. Meanwhile, her adoptive parents--and her Amish beau--are trying to understand how this interruption in Linda's life could possibly be God's will.

As new relationships begin and old ones are tested, no one's life will ever be the same. But in the process of losing and letting go--Linda realizes who's daughter she really is. As only God can do, something more powerful, and far more beautiful, is forged within the Daughters of the Promise community...hope.

Includes Reading Group Guide and Authentic Old Order Amish Recipes.

Visit BethWiseman.com and AmishLiving.com.

Beth Wiseman has a deep affection for the Amish and their simpler way of living. She is the author of the bestsellers, Plain Perfect, Plain Pursuit, and Plain Promise. She and her family live in Texas.

Releases in March. Waiting to find out if it
will release early!

Plain Pursuit Cover...Decision Made!

2010-01-09T14:46:00Z

Thanks to everyone who voted on whether or not to repackage book #2 in the Daughters of the Promise series - Plain Pursuit. The original cover won the vote by a large margin, so my publisher - Thomas Nelson - has decided not to repackage the book. I love the way Thomas Nelson allows readers to have opinion about my covers. My editor actually came to this site and read all of your comments. So - no changes to the cover!

Thanks everyone! It is 16 degrees at my house this morning - in South/Central Texas! Hasn't been this cold here in 14 years. Burr!!

Stay warm everyone!

And the winner is...the original cover!

CKNX Radio Interview

2010-01-07T18:20:00Z

Hi friends! We're bracing ourselves for some cold weather here in Texas. I know that many of you are having even colder temperatures, but when it drops into the teens and 20s in Texas, that's super cold for us!

Yesterday, I was interviewed live by Phil Main with CKNX AM920 in Canada. For a glimpse into my life, how I started writing Amish fiction, how I develop my stories, and my personal testimony about the power of prayer...here's the audio of the interview. Stay warm everyone!

CKNX Interview

A Milestone for Plain Perfect!

2010-01-06T22:30:00Z

Wow! My publisher just informed me that book #1 in the Daughters of the Promise series--Plain Perfect--has surpassed a milestone - over 109,000 units shipped thus far! A HUGE thank you to readers!

Plain Perfect was my first. It will always have a special
place in my heart!

Plain Pursuit (book #2 in the series) and Plain Promise (book #3) both just hit the ECPA Bestseller list for January, so another THANK YOU! And Plain Promise and An Amish Christmas are on the CBA Bestseller list. And, yes...another THANK YOU!

I'm overwhelmed by how well these books have been received. I hope and I pray that God will continue to bless me with stories to tell!

Did I say THANK YOU??

Choose the Cover for PLAIN PURSUIT!

2010-01-05T20:36:00Z

My publisher--Thomas Nelson--is considering a repackaged version of Plain Pursuit, book #2 in the Daughters of the Promise series. They would like for readers to vote! So, which cover captures your attention? Which one would you be tempted to grab off the shelf at the bookstore?

Thanks so much for participating, and thank you to Thomas Nelson for truly listening to readers. (Readers chose the cover for book #4 in the series, Plain Paradise.)

Here's the back cover copy to help you make a decision:

Carley has given up chasing her dreams. Now her dreams are chasing her.

Carley Marek experiences culture shock when she visits her friend Lillian's family on their farm deep in Amish country. She'll get an article out of the visit--and maybe some of Lillian's newfound peace will somehow rub off on her.

Just when Carley is getting used to the quiet nature of the Plain community, Lillian and Samuel's son falls ill. But the local doctor who can offer the most help has been shunned by the community and forbidden to intervene.

As David's condition deteriorates, Dr. Noah determines to do whatever it takes to save the boy's life. Carley is caught in the middle--drawn to Noah, wanting to be helpful in the crisis--and confused by all their talk about a God she neither knows nor trusts.

Carley must decide what in life is worth pursuing...and what to do when she's pursued by a love she never expected.

	The original cover... OR...
	The proposed cover...

Just leave a comment under this blog post!

Happy New Year...and the Winner Is...

2010-01-04T01:33:00Z

Happy New Year! Hope everyone had a great holiday. I'm a couple of days behind announcing the winner of the contest for one of my books. Sorry! Today is my birthday, and I went with my husband and son to lunch and to see the movie 'Avatar'. Not really my type of movie, but it was good, and the special affects were really awesome. I'm hoping to go see Blind Side soon. I've heard great things about that movie!

And the winner of one of my books is SHAYLA VILLINES!! Shayla, email me at author@bethwiseman.net with your address and which book you would like to have. Congrats!

Here's a couple of pics from our New Years celebration:

	Me and Patrick. We went to a local place on the town square for dinner.
	Me and best friend, Renee'. Her son is still in the hospital, but what a blessing that he was doing well enough for her to come spend New Years with us!

My son, Cory, asked me today what my New Years resolutions are. Two things are the same every year - eat less, exercise more...LOL. But I also told him I just want to focus on being a better person, more generous to those less fortunate, and I need to continue working on one specific thing that I write about in my books - FEAR. I worry way too much, and I'm fearful about so much - will my kids be ok, will I continue to write books people want to read, will my mom stay healthy, etc... I know in my heart that it's pointless. Things happen in God's time, and everything is His will...so worrying is futile, and it makes it harder to hear God. I'll be working on elimanting fear and stress this year.

Did you make any New Years resolutions? Would love to hear...

A Blessed Christmas...

2009-12-28T03:15:00Z

Thanks so much for all the great comments on my last post, about what you would like to see on this blog. I'll try to cover all of that, but I thought I would just share a few pics of our Christmas for now.

On Christmas Day, we went to my mom's house. It's the same house I grew up in, and I love going there for Christmas. I love my mom's cooking, and I can almost feel my dad there even though this Christmas it had been five years since he left for Heaven. I miss him the most this time of year. After watching me write for most of my life, he never saw my dream come true in the form of a published novel. I'd like to think he knows and is watching me from above, proud of the messages I'm trying to share with readers.

The day after Christmas, we had my husband's family at our home. Since we just moved in June, it was the first time to have everyone to our new house. It was a super special day - about twenty of us. Instead of the traditional turkey, dressing, etc., we had all kinds of appetizers - spinach dip, cheese dips, stuffed mushrooms, stuffed peppers, finger sandwiches, artichoke dip,shrimp dip, meatballs, potato soup, pickle trays, cheese trays, and tons of desserts.

Both our celebrations were wonderful. Hope you all had a blessed Christmas! Here are a few pics of my family:

	Me and Hubby Patrick
	This is my 25-year-old son, Eric. He wanted a fire pit since he is living on his own now. It's so cool for me that he opens his presents in the same living room that I opened my presents in the entire time I was growing up. Forty years ago, I was opening up Barbie presents, getting a bike, etc. in that same room.
	This is my baby boy, Cory. At eighteen, this was his first time to cut the turkey. My mom said he did a great job! I think he earned this job from now on....probably not what he intended...LOL.
	This is my nephew, Zackary. He helped my Lab, Chloe, open her present, then presented it to her!
	This is my mother-in-law, Pat. She's the greatest. She cooks for us twice a week since she knows I'm under some pretty heavy deadlines right now. The family gave her this portrait for Christmas. Some of you might remember all the blogs I wrote about the very special bridge by my house. Well, we took our family portrait on that bridge and gave Mom one for Christmas.
	This is me with my niece, Samantha, and my nephew, Zackary -- out in front of our house in the country!

I downloaded 62 pics, so too many to post here. Hope you enjoyed the few I shared, and hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas!

Blessings all,
Beth

Merry Christmas and a Giveaway!

2009-12-24T13:33:00Z

Happy holidays everyone. Once again, I am behind on this blog. Much to report again! An Amish Christmas and Plain Promise are both on the CBA and ECPA bestseller lists! Thanks so much to readers for putting them both on these lists. I'm super honored!

Plain Paradise, book #4 in the Daughters of the Promise series, will release in March. I can't wait for everyone to read this one. I think it's my best book yet. Hoping readers will agree!

Okay...my New Year's resolution (and I don't make many!) is to keep up with this blog on a regular basis. But, I want it to be interesting to those subscribed. What would you like to see here? Updates on my books? New Amish recipes I try for inclusion in the books? Some of my favorite books? More about my personal life? My writing life? Tips/advice for new writers? Let me know, and I'll really try to work towards your suggestions this next year!

Now, I'd like to give away a copy of one of my books. Just post a comment under this blog post, and I'll draw a winner on January 1. If chosen, you can choose any one of my books, and I'll mail you a signed copy!

	Plain Perfect - book #1 in the Daughters of the Promise series. CBD, CBA, and ECPA Bestseller
	Plain Pursuit - book #2 in the Daughters of the Promise series. CBA and ECPA Bestseller
	Plain Promise - book #3 in the Daughters of the Promise series. CBD, CBA, and ECPA Bestseller
	An Amish Christmas - a collection of novellas with co-authors Kathleen Fuller and Barbara Cameron. CBD, CBA, and ECPA Bestseller
	An Amish Gathering - a collection of novellas with co-authors Kathleen Fuller and Barbara Cameron. Newly released!

Have a Blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Amish Living - A New Site for Amish Fiction Fans

2009-11-20T15:27:00Z

Wow. It's been a while since I blogged here, so I have lots to report.

First of all, thanks to readers for putting An Amish Christmas on the CBA Bestseller List and Plain Promise on the ECPA Bestseller List. Super excited about that!

AND, An Amish Gathering is going to release early - on Nov. 25, instead of Dec. 29!! So, YAY about that too!

Ships next week!

My publisher has done an amazing thing. They have designed a site called Amish Living that officially launches today. This site features all things Amish, and is now open to the public. They asked me to invite my 'core group' first, and that is you! You can chat with authors, join in discussions, be up to date on book releases, find new recipes, places to stay in Amish Country, and tons more! So click on the link and join me there. I'm not even through setting up my page - that's how new it is.

And check this out. The Daughters of the Promise series is now available in a boxed gift set, perfect for Christmas. All three books in the series for $29.99. Should be available anywhere that books are sold.

And, for those looking for an inexpensive Christmas present - my publisher snagged a sweet deal for Plain Perfect! It's now available at 8400 Dollar General Stores (which I believe is all of them) for $2.99 per copy, and it includes a special "Letter to Readers" from me.

Hope everyone is gearing up and ready for the holidays! Christmas is my favorite time of the year!

Many blessings, friends!

Donny Osmond - Forever Mine!

2009-10-27T14:41:00Z

There is a lot of talk flying across the Internet about Donny Osmond. Ladies, I feel the need to clear some things up. I'm quite sure that when I was in elementary school, Donny was singing all those songs to me. I'm sorry.

And every Monday and Tuesday night, I fall in love with him all over again on Dancing With the Stars. Somewhere in a box buried in storage are my diaries. Inside my 5th grade diary is a baseball card of Donny which says, "The Young Star I Love." I can see the look on my sons' faces when they find that after I'm gone...lol.

Hubby Patrick...Honey...if you're reading this, I'm sorry. Donny was my first love!

And they called it...p u p py l o ve...

Can't you just hear him singing it?

And now...on Dancing With the Stars.

He has my vote!!

An Amish Gathering Receives Highest Ranking from Romantic Times Magazine

2009-10-22T16:18:00Z

An Amish Gathering, an anthology written by me, Kathleen Fuller, and Barbara Cameron has received the highest star rating from Romantic Times Magazine - a 4.5. We are super excited that the book is being so well-received before the release date in December. Special thanks to all those who have pre-ordered it. Here's what Romantic Times Magazine had to say:

While the Amish maintain a plain lifestyle, that doesn't mean they're strangers to love or loss. In this captivating anthology, the characters keep readers engaged. The stories are authentic, inspiring and positive. Also included are some Amish recipes and a handy glossary of words and phrases.

4.5 Stars
Romantic Times Magazine, Dec. 2009

Book Review - The Familiar Stranger by Christina Berry

2009-10-18T22:11:00Z

Wow! I can't believe how long it's been since I've blogged. Things have been crazy busy lately, but no complaints! The Lord continues to bless me in a ways that I'm sure I don't deserve. I want to share some information about a new Christian fiction author.

Meet Christina Berry! I had the pleasure of reviewing her debut novel, The Familiar Stranger. I met Christina at my first ACFW Conference in 2008 - actually at the airport. My first book, Plain Perfect, had just released, and I was on top of the world. Christina was very sweet, and she was still working to sell her first manuscript. Well, by the next conference that I attended (which was last month) - Christina's first novel had been published. Here's a little bit about Christina and my review of The Familiar Stranger. Best book I've read in a long time.

As a single mom and foster parent, Christina Berry carves time out of her busy schedule to write about the heart and soul of life. She lives with her family in rural Oregon.

Get to know her better at www.christinaberry.net.

Hi Christina! Tell me about your novel.

The Familiar Stranger—formerly known as Undiscovered—is about a couple going through a really rough patch in their marriage. When an accident incapacitates the husband, their relationship must be redefined. Which would be a lot easier to do if BIG secrets from his past didn’t raise their ugly heads. Despite the upheaval, the choices they make involving forgiveness and trust might allow a new beginning. Or … they might not.

You can see what other authors have said about The Familiar Stranger by going to http://www.christinaberry.net/books.aspx

How did you come up with the story?

In the summer of 2006, two stories appeared in the newspaper. One was a huge, national story; the other a smaller, local-interest item. I wondered what it might look like if those two stories conceived a child. Boom! I had the entire plot for The Familiar Stranger. It will be interesting to see if readers can figure out which stories inspired the book.

      What challenges do you face with your writing? What comes easy to you?

      As a single mother of young children, and currently serving as a foster parent, time is my biggest challenge.
      I have to make sure my family knows they come first, but to balance that with treating writing as a career.

Strength-wise, while the idea of writing or editing may seem hard, I usually get quite a lot done in a short amount of time once I start. An object in motion tends to stay in motion. That applies to our writing. A little momentum can go a long way!

      What surprised you about the publishing process after your novel was contracted?

      I knew that titles were frequently changed for publication, but I didn’t expect the title to change before the
      contract was officially signed. Also, I knew that editors move from house to house fairly often in this industry, but
      I didn’t expect to lose my dream editor two days after signing the contract. (Hi, Andy!)

      After getting over the shock of losing my editor, I was very surprised at how much Moody valued my input, how
      frequently they communicated with me, and how they lifted my family up in prayer. In fact, everyone from my
      editor to the marketing manager to the author liaison has been amazing!

      What takeaway value do you hope readers receive after reading your novel?

      The recent changes in my life—losing my husband, facing finding a “real” job, selling my home—have done
      nothing but solidify what I hope to be the theme of the book and my life: Live Transparently—      Forgive Extravagantly.     If reading The Familiar Stranger makes even one man or woman be more
      honest with his or her spouse or delve into trust issues in a healthy way, I’ll consider it a success. Maybe there’s a
      hurting heart that can find a new path to forgiveness because of the story.

From the back cover:

A FRESH START OR A DOUBLE-CROSS?

Why is Craig so cold and distant? Denise wonders. Is it his job? The family? Or is it me? Though she's poured her heart into her marriage, years of enduring his long hours, frequent times away, and short temper have left her with a deep sadness.

Then one morning in the middle of church her cell phone rings. Embarrassed, she heads to the lobby, takes the call...and is shocked by the news she hears. Craig's been in an accident.

So begins their fresh start. While keeping vigil by his bedside she wills herself to make their marriage work, whatever the cost. And when Craig finally regains consciousness, he appears to want the same thing -- except for one detail. He doesn't know who she is.

Nor does he remember anything about their life, their children, or why he was parked on the side of the freeway when the accident occurred. As he struggles to recall the past, he also shows a new love for Denise characterized by tender strength and consideration. So what is she to do when ugly betrayals emerge? Is it possible to forgive a man who thoroughly violated her trust? How many more lies and secrets are yet to be discovered?

And then, without warning, his memories come flooding back...

My review:

My deadlines are so tight, I don't have time to review as many books as I would like. However, Christina didn't hesitate to review Plain Perfect when it released, and I wanted to return the favor. The 'favor' resulted in a book that I couldn't put down and didn't want to end.  Several times while I was reading, I had to remind myself that this is Christina's debut novel. It doesn't read like a first book. The writing is tight and with just enough description not to bog down the reader. The characters are three-dimensional and left me thinking about them long after I closed the book. While my heart went out to Denise, I found myself most drawn to Craig -- a man with a past he can't remember, but yet he is drowning in grief about what he has supposedly done to his wife.

The Familiar Stranger is a book about forgiveness on many levels, full of twists and surprises. Several times, I wondered how Christina was going to wrap up the loose ends and make for a satisfying conclusion, but she does. This book will appeal to a wide range of readers, but particularly those who have been married for a long time.
Christina's original voice and a top-notch plot make for an exciting novel that I highly recommend. I'll be watching for her next book.

To order a copy of The Familiar Stranger, you can go to www.christianbook.com or www.amazon.com, or inquire anywhere that books are sold.

Thanks to Christina and Moody Publishing for sending me a copy of The Familiar Stranger for review.

New address for bookplates, letters

2009-09-29T20:44:00Z

Hi,

I wanted to let everyone know that I have a new P.O. Box. If you would like a bookplate to affix to one of my books that you already own, just mail a self-addressed, stamped envelope to Beth Wiseman, P.O. Box 326, Fayetteville, TX 78940. Or just drop me a letter, I love to hear from readers.

For those who have already sent mail to me, please update your records.

AND, today is the 'official' release of Plain Promise, so it should be available as of today anywhere that books are sold. Thanks to everyone who pre-ordered Plain Promise, putting it on the CBD bestseller list before it even released.!

Many Blessings!

A Friend in Australia!

2009-09-26T13:13:00Z

I guess we all have a routine. My routine in the morning is - first and before anything else, I start a pot of coffee. While it brews, I inject my 12-year-old diabetic cat with an insulin shot, then feed my dogs, take a pill for a non-threatening fast heartbeat that I have, tidy up a bit, then pour that cup of coffee and head outside to my porch, toting my laptop. For the next one to two hours, I have some quiet time with God, check and answer emails, respond to comments on Facebook, update blogs, check reviews, and prepare for my day - whether that will be writing, revisions, etc...

On many mornings, when I'm on Facebook, a little chat window pops up. It's my friend, Sarah, from Australia. She always brings a smile to my face, sometimes saying, "Good Morning, Lovely Lady." I can feel Sarah's bubbly personality, love for her beautiful son, and her faith in God from across the world. Hearing from her is always a wonderful start to my day. I asked Sarah if I could feature her on the blog. She was gracious enough to send me some information and a picture of her and her son. I blushed when I read her kind comments, but I want to share this with you. So many people ask me, "Why do you write these books?" Sarah is a perfect example.

Hi, I'm Sarah Elizabeth. I'm a 23-year-old devoted Christian, a mummy to a gorgeous little boy named Benjamin, and am currently living in Victoria Australia.

I absolutely love singing, horse riding, baking, taking walks and reading...which brings me to this incredible lady, Beth Wiseman! I started reading her novels because they are just as their titles suggest -- perfect! Beautifully written, inspired by God, giving hope and invoking a vivid imagination! They show love, honor, traditions, and most importantly, God. Whenever I can, I recommend Beth's books to be read. You can feel her stories through her words. Beth Wiseman is a wonderful lady, mentor, and truly gifted writer. I'm blessed to call her my friend!

Thanks to Sarah for sharing this! I'm incredibly blessed to call her my friend as well! See you on Facebook, Sarah.

Hope everyone has a blessed week!

ACFW Conference in Denver!

2009-09-19T20:59:00Z

Had a great time in Denver at the ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) Conference. Lots of eating, workshops, reconnecting with old friends, and making new ones!

	Me and my fabulous agent, Mary Sue Seymour.
	Allen Arnold, Senior Vice President and Publisher for Thomas Nelson Publishing, and best-selling authors Denise Hunter and Colleen Coble.
	Author Golden Keyes Parsons and her husband, whom we fondly refer to as "Mr. Golden."
	Authors Kimberly Cash Tate and Jenny B. Jones.
	Me and author Christina Berry. Christina's first book, The Familiar Stranger, just released. I met Christina last year at the ACFW Conference, and she wasn't published yet. I'm so happy for her, and I'll be reviewing her book on my blog in October.
	Keynote speaker author Debbie Macomber. Debbie has over 100 million copies of her books in print worldwide, and her novels are translated into twenty-three languages.

	Signing a copy of An Amish Christmas at the conference book signing.
	With fellow Texas author, Leanna Ellis.
	On day 1 with writer Mindy Obenhaus.
	Sat next to Golden at the book signing. Such a sweet lady! And I love her books!
	Dinner on Friday night with Thomas Nelson family - TN staff, authors, and agents. Unfortunately, several left early for appointments and aren't in the picture!
	This is Becky Monds - one of the fabulous editors at Thomas Nelson and a super sweet person!

I'm back home! Settling back into my routine. Hope everyone has a blessed week!

Arrived in Denver!

2009-09-17T20:48:44Z

I'm at the Marriott in Denver waiting for the ACFW Conference to kick off at 5:00, and I'm already running into old friends. I thought I'd share some pics from yesterday's adventures. My great hosts, Sherry and Tim, took me to Monte Vista to see the Amish community there, and we also went to the Great Sand Dunes. There were lots of stops along the way, and we had a fabulous time.

	I came at the perfect time of year - when the Aspens are turning.
	Me and my friend, Tim, the mountain man!
	Sherry took this great pic of the Aspens.
	This is Scooby and Charlie - they joined us for the day. These are the coolest dogs!
	This is the largest statue of Jesus in the United States. It is lit up at night on the side of a mountain not far from Bailey. I zoomed the camera in a lot to get this shot!
	My tour guides, Tim and Sherry. They were SO good to me! I wanted them to just adopt me.

	Monte Vista!
	This is a small Old Order Amish community in Monte Vista. Notice how the buggies are black, not gray like in Lancaster County.
	Check out those solar panels on the far right.
	We sure did want to visit this place, but it was Wednesday, and -- as you can see -- they weren't open. Where we were at is all flat farmland, but you can see the mountains in every direction.
	This house was being remodeled. The buggy on the left is a 'spring buggy', and the family buggy is on the right.
	I took this from a very long way off and zoomed in. Look how young these children are?

	I was looking at the sand dunes ahead of me and preparing to stroll upward. The air is thin here, and you seem to get winded easily. I was in no big hurry!
	Scooby and Charlie had lots more energy than the rest of us on the sand dunes.

It was 37 degrees when we left Baily this morning, even though it didn't feel like it to this Texas girl! A much drier cold here in Colorado. Right now, it's in the 70s and absolutely beautiful. Tomorrow I should have pics from the conference.