A Lasting Impression

Recently I finished reading another book by one of my all-time favorite Christian authors, Tamera Alexander. As always when I read her books, I was again reminded of why she is one of my VERY favorite authors! A Lasting Impression is a wonderfully written historical novel set in a real place: The Belmont Mansion in Nashville, Tennessee. The story takes place after the Civil War, as the nation is still healing amidst reminders of the terrible war. Tamera Alexander has an amazing writing talent that makes the reader feel as if you're really there---walking among the characters of the story, and viewing the gorgeous Belmont Mansion with your very own eyes! ~ I don't want to give any details away, but if you're a fan of historical fiction, be sure and read A Lasting Impression. Now I'm eager to read the other books coming out in this series!

A New Year---and a New Word

It's already January 9th---this New Year needs to slow down! At the beginning of each new year, I used to write out a list of "My New Year Resolutions"---basically I was re-writing the same ones each year *sigh*. But several years ago I noticed that some folks had chosen a word (or the Lord had placed that specific word on their heart)---and that was their WORD for the year. So I decided to try that rather than a list of repeated resolutions. ~ Last year my word was PERSEVERANCE. And....overall that's what I did: I persevered with my physical therapy, home projects, etc. (not that I completed everything, though!). This year I honestly felt that the Lord has been nudging me towards SELF-DISCIPLINE. Because if I want to improve on my writing, I absolutely HAVE to be disciplined and WRITE!! Not just when I feel like writing, but times even when I'd rather be doing something else (such as playing with my cats---or being entertained by them *smile*). ~ Do you have a word or goal(s) for the New Year? I pray that this new year will be safe and healthy for us all. ~ Shew me thy ways, O Lord; teach me thy paths. Psalm 25:4