A New Year, A Stronger Faith

 Everyone I know would likely agree that the year 2020 was an unusual, chaotic, stress-filled year, filled with much heartache, sickness, and loss. Yes, the year certainly was filled with those negative traits - - but there were some positives too. Sometimes you just have to look for the hidden blessings. 

For me personally, the most wonderful event of 2020 was the birth of my second, precious, miracle grandbaby. A true blessing and gift from God! 💜  And I know others also had blessings that happened during this tumultous year. So it wasn't totally a bad year. 

My hope for all of us who experienced a heartbreaking loss this year (mine was losing a family member to Covid) is that maybe---just maybe---our faith and trust in God has grown stronger. After all, I've heard it said many times that the more trials a person endures, the stronger they can become. 

As we enter a brand-new, hopefully better new year, may we all look to the Lord for guidance and strength, and may we have a stronger faith, no matter what this coming year holds for us. 

Happy New Year, my friends! May you follow the Lord and be blessed each day of 2021. 

The Lord is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and He knoweth them that trust in Him.

                                                                                                             Nahum  1:7  

Author Laurie Wood

 I am thrilled to feature Author Laurie Wood on CatMom's Corner today. Laurie is a sweet friend and very talented author who lives in Canada---in polar bear country!  Her stories are amazing, and yes--they feature polar bears. Her newest book is Northern Protector, and I'm eager to read this one. Be sure and look for Laurie's books, and you can visit her website, and find her on Facebook and Twitter.  AND, because I'm so excited about Laurie's newest book, I'll gift one commenter with a Kindle copy! Just leave a comment on my blog, and mention you're interested in winning a copy for your Kindle.  Happy reading! 

 NORTHERN PROTECTOR Blurb:

Constable Ben Koper is still healing from the polar bear attack that almost killed him. Nine months after it happened, he returns to Churchill, Manitoba, a changed man—scarred more than just physically. PTSD is his new shadow, haunting his every step, and he can’t seem to kick the pain meds he shouldn’t need anymore. He’s determined to prove, to himself and his colleagues, that he’s still up to his job. Failure isn’t an option.

ER nurse Joy Gallagher spent the entire last winter texting with a healing Constable Koper. What started as friendly concern from this single mother has grown into full-fledged romantic feelings, and she’s eager to level up their friendship and introduce him to the idyllic comfort of small-town life. Until a teenager is murdered at a summer party. The crime is strikingly similar to the cold case murder of Joy’s foster sister, stirring old trauma Joy has never fully dealt with.

When another victim is snatched in town, Ben and Joy must confront their own demons, and join forces to track down an elusive killer. The race to rescue the next victim before it’s too late will test Ben and Joy to their limits. Can they survive their encounter with this heinous killer, or will the past destroy them.?

Buy Links:

Amazon.com: https://amzn.to/3femV6Y

Amazon.ca:    https://amzn.to/2KfyoYq

Anaiah Press: https://bit.ly/3pGPrD6 (Print copies)

Bio & Social Media Links:

Laurie Wood lives in Central Canada and writes inspirational romantic suspense with an edge of danger. She’s also a military wife who’s raised two wonderful special needs children to adulthood. They’ve lived all over Canada and are still on that journey. When she’s not writing she can be found at her spinning wheel, knitting, or hanging out with her dogs in the garden. She loves to hear from readers and always replies so feel free to get in touch with her.

Please visit her at https://www.lauriewoodauthor.com

Facebook:             https://www.facebook.com/lauriewoodauthor

Twitter:                 https://twitter.com/LaurieJeanWood

Thankful Even in the Rough Times

 Like so many others, I've been affected by many sad events during this year. Especially the death of a precious family member and three dear friends, not to mention the pandemic raging around us and the constant strife and turmoil that fills daily news reports. Not the happiest of times.

But even in this rough, heartbreaking year, there are blessings. Many blessings. So I will choose to be thankful---not just as I prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving Day tomorrow, but each and every day. Small blessings, such as having a warm home to live in, food in my kitchen, and countless other items that are often taken for granted. And then in April of this year, my most precious blessing arrived into the world: my second miracle grandbaby. Such a sweet gift from God! 💜

So as I continue mourning the loss of a loved one and missing sweet friends who've gone to Heaven, I will still be thankful for all the wonderful blessings in my life---so many that I couldn't count them all even if I tried. Having a thankful spirit is my choice---even in the rough times. 

It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord.   Psalm 92:1 

For the Love of Llamas

 My 5th novel released last week, and I am thrilled!   For the Love of Llamas is a contemporary romance set in Georgia, and features Claire, who learns she's inherited farmland in middle Georgia. She must decide if she should move from her upscale north Atlanta town of Fernwood to Peach Grove, a tiny, rural community two hours away.

The story also features Dexter, a wealthy realtor who is expected to take over his father's company in Fernwood upon his father's retirement. After Dexter attempts unsuccessfully to purchase Claire's land, he's still drawn

to the rural community of Peach Grove, which puzzles him--he's a city-dweller, not a country boy! 

When Dexter and Claire encounter each other repeatedly, an attraction develops and they soon begin dating. Yet Claire will be moving soon, so how could their relationship continue? Can she trust Dexter with her heart?

With trust and faith--and help from some adorable llamas--this story has a happy ending that I hope leaves my readers with a smile. 💚 

(My books are available on Amazon at Patti Jo Moore) 😍

September Smiles

My family's "Birthday Month" has arrived! 😊 As I turned my calendar to the month of September this morning, I had to smile. So many sweet memories come with this month, for me personally. The birth of my first and third children, my late mother's birthday, and yes---my own special day. Of course, I try to ignore my birthday, but my family and friends will not let me! 😄 

The season of Fall arrives this month, too - - and Fall is my very favorite. So many reasons to smile in September, but yet there are always reasons to smile. Sometimes we just have to look for them, but they're plentiful. Although 2020 has been a very rough year in so many ways (for all of us), I am choosing to focus on the positive - - the blessings in each day - - whether a birthday is being celebrated or not! There are always reasons to smile. 💜    

                     A merry heart doeth good like a medicine.   Proverbs 17:22  

CatMom Chats With Author J. Carol Nemeth

I am thrilled to chat with talented Author J. Carol Nemeth today! 😊 She's written lots of wonderful books that are available on Amazon, and she's also a very sweet lady. I recently finished reading MOUNTAIN OF PERIL and loved it! 

Welcome, Carol!  How long have you been writing?
CAROL:  Patti Jo, I started writing when I was in junior high school, but not seriously until after my son was born. Then I wrote an historical romantic suspense novel about the time my daughter was born in 1990. We were living in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, England at the time. It took over 26 years and a lot of rejections and revisions before Winged Publications took a chance on me and published it in 2016. The title of that book is YORKSHIRE LASS. It's a stand-alone novel that takes place at the end of WWI England.

Where do you usually write?
CAROL:  I have a craft room in my house that also houses my writing space.

Do you have a regular writing schedule, or do you grab writing time whenever you can?
CAROL:  I try to take time each weekday to get in my writing, but it doesn't always happen. When it does, I start in the morning about 9 am and work until late afternoon when I stop to fix supper. Some days when I have errands to run (I try to save all my errands for one day) I don't get in as much writing. I grab the time I can get. 

When you're not writing, what do you enjoy doing?
CAROL:  I enjoy crocheting, coloring adult color books, sewing, machine embroidery and quilting as well as reading. However, I don't get to do many of these since I was published.

Do you have any pets?
CAROL:  Yes, we have a black lab named Holly. She's 10 years old and when we had two German Shepherds, she was happy to be low girl on the totem pole. She was just happy to be with her buddies. Now that they have passed, she's alpha dog. By default, of course, but she doesn't care. She just loves being top girl now. 

Anything special you'd like readers to know about you? 😊 
CAROL:  My husband and I love to go RVing, as does Holly. I enjoy doing research for my books and we combine the two occasionally when I'm ready to do research. We went to Cape Hatteras a few years ago to research for two books, A BEACON OF LOVE, prequel to OCEAN OF FEAR, FAITH IN THE PARKS, Book 3 and then for OCEAN OF FEAR too. It was the year hurricane Maria hit the coast of NC. We had just come from the NC mountains and had only vaguely heard about the hurricane. We had to sit an hour inland for four days while Maria struck the NC coast. When we finally got the all clear to head to the campground near Hatteras, we found huge road equipment putting the sand dunes back where they belonged before Maria relocated them onto the roads. We hit the ground running to do research. Much of our research time had been used up waiting inland. But God blessed with meeting

the right people in the right places to send us to other right people to other right places. I came away with more information than I could use. He's good like that. 💜 

CATMOM:  I agree, Carol. He's so GOOD!  Thank you so much for chatting with me, and I encourage readers to look for Carol's books! 

Always in Control

With all that's been happening in our country recently (and in much of the world), it's easy to feel down and at times, helpless. As Christians, we're heartbroken over all the lives lost due to the horrible virus pandemic, followed by much turmoil, protests, and violence involving citizens and police. If we watch television news reports, we are appalled and disheartened at the actions of many. I think it's important to be aware of what's happening in our communities and our world, but after a while, it's best to turn off the news and move our focus to something---or better yet---SOMEONE else. I know, as a follower of Christ, that He is still in control. He always has been, and always will be. Period. 

He is not surprised by the events in our world. But at times, I cannot help thinking that God must be shaking His head at how His children are acting. So what can I do, as only one person? First and foremost, pray. I have been and will continue praying for the safety and health of others---not only my loved ones and friends, but people I don't know. I pray for those I see on television to have softened hearts and turn to the Lord. 

We must also stand for what we know is right, asking the Lord to guide our words, thoughts, and actions. For me personally, reading my Bible regularly helps keep my mind (and as a result, my words and actions) in line with what God desires for my life. I am His child, after all. So as disease and turmoil may continue around us, we need to remember that SOMEONE greater than all the world is always in control. That's something that never, ever changes. 💙

      God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.   Psalm 46:1  

Laughter Really IS the Best Medicine

Without boring you with the statistics from experts that detail the positive effects laughter has on our health, I will just say that I wholeheartedly agree. 😀 I'm certainly no scientist or researcher, but I know how much better I feel after a visit with friends (or family) when we've shared lots of laughs. I've even read that laughter burns calories. Who knew?

With the current state of our world--mainly the global pandemic--the news has offered the sobering statistics of those affected by the horrible Covid virus. Not to mention the fact that we all have had our lives impacted by this in a major way. So without dismissing the seriousness of what's

going on around us, I decided to do a post on laughter. 

When was the last time you heard a really funny joke and laughed so hard you had tears? Or maybe you viewed a silly video on your computer and almost tumbled out of your chair from laughing? If you haven't done that recently, then you're overdue! Even if you're a busy mom with young children, or a businessperson working from home, you still need time for laughter. We ALL do! 

So go ahead and give yourself permission to view a video of people trying to walk on icy surfaces. The ones I've seen are hilarious, and of course no one actually gets hurt (except for their pride!).  Or read some jokes that tickle your funny bone--whatever makes you laugh. Ideally you'd be able to gather with some friends and share funny stories, but with "social distancing" that might not be possible for a while. But you can phone a friend or two, and share a funny story with them. You might even make someone's day by inserting some laughter into their not-so-funny daily routine.  😏 

                   A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance.  Proverbs 15:13

Always Trusting

                                                     

In the midst of a global pandemic, the world around us is a much different place in so many ways. Terms such as "social distancing" are being used on a daily basis, and many folks say they feel they're living in a fog. On social media posts, people joke about not knowing what day of the week it is, and dressing up to take out their garbage or check their mailbox. We don't just hop in our cars to run errands as we used to do, and countless businesses have sadly suffered, many going out of business. Strange, scary times.

Yet there are many who are trying to remain positive, and reminding everyone that this situation is temporary. Others wonder if things will ever return to "normal"---many people doubtful that it will. This has been a learning experience for us all, I'm sure we'd agree.

But through all of this - - I've tried to focus on trusting the Lord, because no matter how frightening this situation is, HE is still in control. He always has been and always will be. Now I'll admit that some days my trusting nature is stronger than other days. But if I can remain focused on WHO is truly in control, and trust HIM, then I'll keep a much better attitude about this entire situation. 

I hope that whatever your personal situation is like at the moment, you will be able to trust in the one true God, who loves you and watches over you.

And although much has changed in our world, how nice that some things remain the same. I go outside in my yard and the breeze still blows, the birds still sing, and the sun still shines. Reminders that the Lord is still in control. And that helps me to keep trusting.  

     Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. 
                                                                                                     

Proverbs 3:5

Be Strong and Courageous

                                                BE  STRONG  AND  COURAGEOUS

With the horrible virus in the news right now, it seems everyone has been affected. News reports are warning that it will likely become worse before it slacks off; elderly folks and those with compromised immune systems and other health issues are being cautioned to stay home and not venture out. Stores have pretty much been wiped out of many items, and many churches have cancelled services and other activities. Some Christians have wondered if we're seeing the end times.

But with all of the uncertainty, bad news, and gloom and doom forecasts, we can be sure of certain truths. God is in control, and He always will be. Yes, this is a scary time for many of us, and we worry about our loved ones and the future. Yet as a Christian, I cling to the One I can depend on---no matter what happens. Jesus Christ is my Lord, and I know He is with me. 

 I've limited how much news I view on the television. Yes, it's important to be aware of what's going on, but eventually we need a break from the repetition of discouraging news and updates. For me personally, I love looking in my Bible for reminders that uplift me. My Bible has so many wonderful verses that offer comfort and hope, so I thought I'd list a few of them below. Take heart, my friends! This too, shall pass. Just cling to the hope that only our Lord can give.  

     Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord.
                                                                                                               Psalm 31:24


     Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.       Joshua 1:9  



     Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea I will help thee; yea I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.   
                                                                                                                           Isaiah 41:10  💙



   

CatMom Chats With Author Jackie Layton

                CATMOM  CHATS  WITH......AUTHOR  JACKIE  LAYTON 


I'm so happy to be chatting with my sweet friend Jackie Layton today! Jackie's wonderful book, BITE THE DUST, has recently released. I'm reading it now and loving it!  It can be ordered on Amazon, and I highly recommend this cozy mystery. 😊 

Welcome, Jackie!
How long have you been writing?
   Jackie:  I've been writing around ten years. I'm definitely not an overnight success, but I've learned so much along the way. I've learned to trust God's timing, and I've made a lot of good friends. 

Where do you usually write?  
   Jackie: I have an office at home, and I mostly write there. I have been known to visit a coffee store or the library when I get distracted by laundry or my dog.  

Do you have a regular writing schedule, or do you grab writing time whenever you can?
   Jackie: I try to stick to a schedule, and morning is my best time to write. Nights are also good, but afternoons are terrible for me.  

When you're not writing, what do you enjoy doing?  
   Jackie: I love to take Heinz for walks and walking on the beach is the best. I enjoy photography and of course reading. 

Do you have any pets? 
   Jackie: When my youngest son went to college, I inherited Heinz full-time. He's a Westie and keeps me company when I write. He also makes sure I don't sit for too long at a time. 

Anything special you'd like readers to know about you? 😊 
   Jackie: I enjoy watching sports with my husband. Raising sons, I spent most of my adult life watching soccer, baseball, basketball, and tennis. We watch SEC football and basketball games on TV, and most Saturdays we have Game Day on TV.  

 Thank you, Jackie! I enjoyed learning more about you, and think it's wonderful you live so close to a beach.  Congratulations again on your book!  

CatMom Chats with Author Tanya Agler

               CATMOM   CHATS   WITH .........AUTHOR TANYA  AGLER 😊   

I am thrilled to chat with Author Tanya Agler, a sweet friend and fellow Georgia girl whose debut novel recently released!!  Published by Harlequin Heartwarming, THE SHERIFF'S SECOND CHANCE is a delightful story that I read earlier this month and highly recommend! 

Tanya:  Thank you so much for hosting me today on your blog, Patti Jo!  

1. How long have you been writing?
   Tanya: The short answer is "all my life." The long asnswer is a little more complicated than that. I started writing in high school, but it wasn't until my older son was in kindergarten that I realized writing was a part of me that I needed to accomplish every day. I was writing my second book when my husband and I received the wonderful news I was pregnant. I thought I can write while holding a baby. Then we found out we were expecting twins. So, I kept that story in the back of my mind and when the twins entered Mother's Morning Out, I became serious about writing every day, starting to learn about the craft of writing, and pursued my dream of someday becoming a published author.

2. Where do you usually write? 
   Tanya: I usually write at Panera Bread or at a local library. When the twins were in preschool, there was a Panera nearby and it was easier to go there than drive home where laundry and our dog were waiting. 

3. When you're not writing, what do you enjoy doing?
   Tanya: Spending time with my family, watching classic movies, reading, walking. I'm the mom of four and they usually keep me busy. I live in Georgia, and I love taking them to different scenic areas in north Georgia. Amicalola Falls and Cloudland Canyon are two of my favorite places to go. I also love walking on a treadmill for story ideas and exercise. At night, I love to either watch a movie or a television show or read. I started watching The Office for the first time, and I've watched the first five seasons over the past 4 months. I'm also a huge classic movie fan and love Jimmy Stewart and Cary Grant movies.

4.  Do you have any pets?
  Tanya: Vera the Basset hound adopted us. We went to an adoption day sponsored by the Basset Rescue of Georgia, and she walked over to our family and wouldn't leave our side. We celebrated 5 years with her last month. She's a sweetie, and her age is estimated to be around 13.  Last Christmas, we gave her an orthopedic dog bed. Out of the entire family, I think she enjoyed that present the most. 

5.  I'm always interested in "Favorites" - - so, what is your:
     Favorite color?   Green

     Favorite food?   That's so hard! I have such a sweet tooth. Chocolate chip cheesecake or chocolate chip ice cream. I can't decide!  

     Dream Vacation?   This is also so hard! We're in the process of planning a family trip to Prince Edward Island, which is one of my dream vacations as I'm a huge Anne of Green Gables fan! The reason this one is hard is the mom in me says family vacation to Europe, and the wife in me is looking forward to a trip to Europe with my husband once all 4 have graduated high school.

6.  Anything special you'd like readers to know about you? 😊
   Tanya:  I went to 12 different schools before I attended the University of Georgia---Go Dawgs! Also, I love watching tennis on television (I'm a huge Simona Halep and Novak Djokovic fan, and also love the Big Three and Serena).   Thanks so much for hosting me today.

CatMom:  It was my pleasure, Tanya!  I loved learning more about you, and wanted to add that a trip to Prince Edward Island is on my dream vacation list too. When you go, please share photos!  And I hope those who haven't gotten your book yet will order it - - such an entertaining story! 💚