Ruth O'Neil's Blog
July 26, 2020
Ivy Introspective
Please welcome Kellyn Roth to the blog today. She has a new book out and was kind enough to share it with us.
What inspired you to write this book?
I always knew I was going to write a story about Alice's sister, Ivy. So I did. I'd somewhat impulsively said she'd had mental issues in book 1 (darned little 14-year-old me!) - so I had to do the research. And once I did, I realized writing a story about her was going to be challenging at the least!
[image error]
However, I was determined to do so - and more than that, to help her. Because it's not easy having any minor learning disability or anxiety or anything of the sort even in today's world. In the Victorian era, it was more like a death sentence. [image error] Click the cover
to go to Amazon
So, slowly, I found a way to help! And that's the story I wrote.
Is there a message in your book you want people to walk away with?
That they have worth no matter who they are or what they've done, and they are not too far gone for God. It doesn't matter who you are - God loves you. He loves you all the more for your faults because they show how much you need Him. But not only does He love you even in your sin ... but He won't just leave you there. He'll make you into something better!Is there anything in your book and/or books based on real life experiences?
In this particular one, not really. I've drawn elements from people in real life for all my books (Jordy McAllen is basically my best friend, Bailey, in male form!). Some of my books over the years have been influenced by life events, but my most recent ones haven't.
What books and/or writers have influenced you the most?
My list includes Jane Austen, Charlotte Bronte, Maud Hart Lovelace, Gene Stratton Porter, Kristi Ann Hunter, Roseanna M. White, Sarah Sundin, Tamera Alexander, Karen Witemeyer, and Regina Jennings. It is sorta a random list, but I've drawn inspiration from all of these lovely ladies!
What has been your greatest challenge when writing?
Editing! Gah, who invented it? :P I guess necessity. But that doesn't mean I have to like it!
Are you working on anything new?
Always! Of course I've got books 2 and 3 in the works, as well as a series based on Jordy McAllen's siblings (as adults). It's super fun! I'm also developing a historical mystery novel in the same vein as Rebecca and some of Joanna Davidson Politano's books, and a couple historical romantic comedies.
What have you learned from writing and do you have any advice for other authors?
To keep writing. :P That's generally what I learn from my writing projects - because every single one is individually challenging. Yet I've got to keep on keeping on!
Advice for authors? Make extra sure you understand the writing craft! Dive into character building, story structure, themes - read countless articles and books - listen to all the podcasts - and most of all, write.
I always advise people who are thinking of publishing soon to make sure they've written a lot and read about writing a lot and then applied what they've read to still more writing! And, of course, got lots of feedback from people who know what they're talking about.
Thanks so much for hosting me on your blog today!
Ivy Knight lives her life in a blur of confusion as the world passes her by in a tumultuous melody. She isn’t the perfect daughter or student, but as long as she can be with her family, she doesn’t mind watching rather than living.
Mrs. Chattoway treasures both of her granddaughters now that they’re reunited. When Ivy’s parents enroll her in a Scottish school for unique children, she’s happy to chaperone.
In a new place with a new guardian, Ivy discovers a special talent that helps her see the blurred world in a new way. There’s a light at the end of the tunnel, and Ivy becomes determined to find it—and help others do the same.
About the Author:
Kellyn Roth is a Christian historical women’s fiction & romance author from North-Eastern Oregon who loves border collies. A ranch girl with a love for storytelling, she’s been writing since she was seven and published since she was fourteen.
Kell lives in the country outside a small town in North-Eastern Oregon with her family, cat, and three puppy-dogs. When not writing, she teaches writing and talks about writing, but she also enjoys other things. She just can’t think of any right now.
Author Links:
Website & Blog: http://kellynrothauthor.com/
Email List: http://kellynrothauthor.com/newsletter/
Facebook: https://facebook.com/kellynrothauthor/
Instagram: https://instagram.com/kellynrothauthor/
What inspired you to write this book?
I always knew I was going to write a story about Alice's sister, Ivy. So I did. I'd somewhat impulsively said she'd had mental issues in book 1 (darned little 14-year-old me!) - so I had to do the research. And once I did, I realized writing a story about her was going to be challenging at the least!
[image error]
However, I was determined to do so - and more than that, to help her. Because it's not easy having any minor learning disability or anxiety or anything of the sort even in today's world. In the Victorian era, it was more like a death sentence. [image error] Click the cover
to go to Amazon
So, slowly, I found a way to help! And that's the story I wrote.
Is there a message in your book you want people to walk away with?
That they have worth no matter who they are or what they've done, and they are not too far gone for God. It doesn't matter who you are - God loves you. He loves you all the more for your faults because they show how much you need Him. But not only does He love you even in your sin ... but He won't just leave you there. He'll make you into something better!Is there anything in your book and/or books based on real life experiences?
In this particular one, not really. I've drawn elements from people in real life for all my books (Jordy McAllen is basically my best friend, Bailey, in male form!). Some of my books over the years have been influenced by life events, but my most recent ones haven't.
What books and/or writers have influenced you the most?
My list includes Jane Austen, Charlotte Bronte, Maud Hart Lovelace, Gene Stratton Porter, Kristi Ann Hunter, Roseanna M. White, Sarah Sundin, Tamera Alexander, Karen Witemeyer, and Regina Jennings. It is sorta a random list, but I've drawn inspiration from all of these lovely ladies!
What has been your greatest challenge when writing?
Editing! Gah, who invented it? :P I guess necessity. But that doesn't mean I have to like it!
Are you working on anything new?
Always! Of course I've got books 2 and 3 in the works, as well as a series based on Jordy McAllen's siblings (as adults). It's super fun! I'm also developing a historical mystery novel in the same vein as Rebecca and some of Joanna Davidson Politano's books, and a couple historical romantic comedies.
What have you learned from writing and do you have any advice for other authors?
To keep writing. :P That's generally what I learn from my writing projects - because every single one is individually challenging. Yet I've got to keep on keeping on!
Advice for authors? Make extra sure you understand the writing craft! Dive into character building, story structure, themes - read countless articles and books - listen to all the podcasts - and most of all, write.
I always advise people who are thinking of publishing soon to make sure they've written a lot and read about writing a lot and then applied what they've read to still more writing! And, of course, got lots of feedback from people who know what they're talking about.
Thanks so much for hosting me on your blog today!
Ivy Knight lives her life in a blur of confusion as the world passes her by in a tumultuous melody. She isn’t the perfect daughter or student, but as long as she can be with her family, she doesn’t mind watching rather than living.
Mrs. Chattoway treasures both of her granddaughters now that they’re reunited. When Ivy’s parents enroll her in a Scottish school for unique children, she’s happy to chaperone.
In a new place with a new guardian, Ivy discovers a special talent that helps her see the blurred world in a new way. There’s a light at the end of the tunnel, and Ivy becomes determined to find it—and help others do the same.
About the Author:
Kellyn Roth is a Christian historical women’s fiction & romance author from North-Eastern Oregon who loves border collies. A ranch girl with a love for storytelling, she’s been writing since she was seven and published since she was fourteen.
Kell lives in the country outside a small town in North-Eastern Oregon with her family, cat, and three puppy-dogs. When not writing, she teaches writing and talks about writing, but she also enjoys other things. She just can’t think of any right now.
Author Links:
Website & Blog: http://kellynrothauthor.com/
Email List: http://kellynrothauthor.com/newsletter/
Facebook: https://facebook.com/kellynrothauthor/
Instagram: https://instagram.com/kellynrothauthor/
July 21, 2020
9 Authors, 9 Books, 9 Weeks of Summer, ¢.99
How about that title!
Summer has definitely arrived in my neck of the woods. It's been 90* or above for the last couple weeks, and it doesn't look like it's going to change any time soon. That means the weather is only good for reading by the pool, at the lake, or on the beach. Fortunately, a few writing friends and I have teamed up to offer you some great deals. Here is a list of books that are all only ¢.99. But you need to grab them quickly. Just like summer, these HOT deals won't last long. Click the covers to purchase from Amazon.
[image error] THE GREEN VEIL by Naomi Musch: Set your summer reading for a gripping family saga! In book one of the Empire in the Pines series, lumberman’s Colette Palmer has always loved timber cruiser Manason Kade, but during the summer of 1841, she leaves him behind to travel across Lake Michigan and settle with her family in the heart of the Wisconsin wilderness. Growing into womanhood, she eventually makes her vow to another. The day finally comes, however, when Manason plants roots of his own in Wisconsin Territory, and Colette’s husband will stop at nothing to ruin him. Logging enterprises collide as the territory nears statehood. In the midst of turmoil, Manason and Colette meet again. Now, she will have to choose between her first love and her commitment to her marriage vows, while her dreams, her faith, and an empire in pine hang in the balance. The Red Fury (book two) and The Black Rose (book three) continue this three-generation, historical romance series.
[image error] YESTERDAY’S POISON by Carol McClain ~ What could be a greater summertime indulgence than hours on the beach? The answer: Hours lolling in the sun with an unforgettable book that immerses you in the world of forgiveness and friendship. One that will rivet your attention from the first word until the last. Heartbreak catapults Torie Sullivan into the care of paramedic Adam Benedict when she crashes her car in a drunken frenzy. In middle school she and her cronies had bullied him mercilessly. Now he’s tasked with saving her life. Each character drinks yesterday’s poison. Their friendships intertwine their lives and expose their toxic pasts. They must learn to forgive the unpardonable.
[image error] COURTING DANGER (A Katerina “Kat” Andruko/Dimitri Garmonin Novel, Book 1) by Nike N. Chillemi ~ The temperatures are steamy. Florida hurricane season is coming! A murderer is terrorizing young women in Pelican Beach and so is the first storm of the season. A newly installed detective, Kat feels she knows the murderer but can’t place him, and it’s tearing at her. Her first suspect is debonair profiler Dimitri Garmonin who finds her intriguing. An excellent summer read. But also check out all the other contemporary detective novels/mysteries for any season on Nike N. Chillemi’s author page. Fast paced, taut suspense, action packed, sweet romance, quirky secondary characters, wry humor.
[image error]
[image error] LUNCH LADIES (What a Difference a Year Makes, Book 3) by Ruth O’Neil ~ “Everyone rattled off their offerings for the Fourth of July feast and the fun that would follow. Besides an enormous amount of food, there would be water balloons, water guns, yard games, pool fun, crafts, and of course fireworks. It really was the event of the summer that everyone looked forward to.” Cookouts, parades, picnics, swimming, camping. Whatever your summer activities, you’ll want to take this novel with you. These seven women will make your summer one to remember as you follow them through thick and thin. They’re best friends who stick together through storms and sunny days, sharing each sorrow and blessing. You’ll wish you were a part of their circle. Or maybe you’ll be encouraged to create a close-knit circle of friends with whom you can enjoy the highs and lows of this journey called life. Look for other books in Ruth O’Neil’s series What a Difference a Year Make.
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[image error] NATE’S HEALING (The Florida Irish Series, Book 6) by Suzanne D. Williams ~ Nate Sawyer has suffered a devastating illness when he meets his parent’s new neighbor, Georgianna Smith. Their attraction for each other sparks immediately. She’s funny and caring and a great cook. Yet a secret she carries grows larger and larger in her mind, and it could be he isn’t strong enough to accept it. Curl up by the pool or in your favorite chair and travel back to a simpler time this summer. Often lighthearted, the budding feelings of Nate and Georgianna are also frustrating and incredibly heartwarming. Take a glimpse at a cast of characters from The Florida Irish series in this short, 99 cent, historical romance novella, then check out more of this author’s book catalog.
[image error]
[image error] SHE’S MINE by Tammy Doherty ~ This summer is going to be explosive for Caitlin Harrington and Sean Taggart. Caitlin dreams of a quiet life teaching math at her hometown middle school. Except someone is leaving ominous notes on her door. It could be her ex-boyfriend or someone else who doesn’t want her back in town. Sean Taggart thinks Caitlin is beautiful…and possibly crazy. When he finds out the truth, Sean wants to help. Can he save Caitlin before the stalker turns to murder? If you take this book to the beach, be sure to slather on the sunscreen because you’ll be captivated and unable to stop reading until the end. As one reviewer says, “Fantastic read. Poured through this book because I couldn’t put it down! The storyline kept me guessing. There is a masterful plot twist, that I didn’t see coming – and I loved it!!
[image error]
[image error] KNIGHT IN SHINING APRON (Appleton, WV Romantic Mystery Series, Book 2) by Carole Brown ~ Come spend your summer in Appleton, WV where everyone knows everyone and there’s always another mystery going on. Friends are loyal, and the foes are determined to win. Romance is swoony-worthy and the mystery is intriguing. Meet friends like a professor-turned-author, a knighted chef from England, a restaurant owner who can’t cook, an Italian carpenter, a brother and sister who co-own an antique/junk/collectible shop and more. Help discover who the villains are. Whether you’re at the beach, the mountains, or at home, these books will transport you to a world that will make you year to visit or live in Appleton. Don’t just settle for one book. Check all the books in this Appleton, WV Romantic Mystery series, with more coming.
[image error]
[image error] JUSTICE FOR ELIZABETH (Detective Carhill Mystery Book 2) by Mary Vee ~ Sipping sweet iced tea on the veranda of a Manhattan mansion seems divine, unless you are Elizabeth Alexander, wife of the man on trial for embezzlement. A speedy trial, the best lawyer money can buy backs away, and circumstantial evidence feeds the gossipers and threatens the Alexander family name. Elizabeth hires Detective Carhill, PI, to find the one who set up her husband. Murder, romance, kidnapping, shopping. Sweet ingredients to a summer read you’re sure to love.
[image error]
[image error] WITHIN GOLDEN BANDS (A Home for My Heart Book 2) by Norma Gail ~ Take a summer vacation in Scotland without leaving home! Within Golden Bands: A Home for My Heart Book Two offers a tender love story and edgy romantic suspense all rolled into one. Newly married Bonny MacDonell finds the transition from American college professor to Scottish sheep farmer’s wife more difficult than she expected. When her miracle pregnancy ends in a devastating miscarriage, she fears her husband’s reaction will hurt more than the loss of their child. But Kieran never shows up at the hospital. When found, he is beaten and unconscious. The only memory of his attacker is the words, “Get off my land.” Reeling from the threats and the loss of their child, they struggle to hold her marriage together. Will faith and love be enough? And don’t miss Book One, Land of My Dreams, a sweet, Christian romance set in Scotland and New Mexico.
[image error] [image error][image error]
Summer has definitely arrived in my neck of the woods. It's been 90* or above for the last couple weeks, and it doesn't look like it's going to change any time soon. That means the weather is only good for reading by the pool, at the lake, or on the beach. Fortunately, a few writing friends and I have teamed up to offer you some great deals. Here is a list of books that are all only ¢.99. But you need to grab them quickly. Just like summer, these HOT deals won't last long. Click the covers to purchase from Amazon.
[image error] THE GREEN VEIL by Naomi Musch: Set your summer reading for a gripping family saga! In book one of the Empire in the Pines series, lumberman’s Colette Palmer has always loved timber cruiser Manason Kade, but during the summer of 1841, she leaves him behind to travel across Lake Michigan and settle with her family in the heart of the Wisconsin wilderness. Growing into womanhood, she eventually makes her vow to another. The day finally comes, however, when Manason plants roots of his own in Wisconsin Territory, and Colette’s husband will stop at nothing to ruin him. Logging enterprises collide as the territory nears statehood. In the midst of turmoil, Manason and Colette meet again. Now, she will have to choose between her first love and her commitment to her marriage vows, while her dreams, her faith, and an empire in pine hang in the balance. The Red Fury (book two) and The Black Rose (book three) continue this three-generation, historical romance series.
[image error] YESTERDAY’S POISON by Carol McClain ~ What could be a greater summertime indulgence than hours on the beach? The answer: Hours lolling in the sun with an unforgettable book that immerses you in the world of forgiveness and friendship. One that will rivet your attention from the first word until the last. Heartbreak catapults Torie Sullivan into the care of paramedic Adam Benedict when she crashes her car in a drunken frenzy. In middle school she and her cronies had bullied him mercilessly. Now he’s tasked with saving her life. Each character drinks yesterday’s poison. Their friendships intertwine their lives and expose their toxic pasts. They must learn to forgive the unpardonable.
[image error] COURTING DANGER (A Katerina “Kat” Andruko/Dimitri Garmonin Novel, Book 1) by Nike N. Chillemi ~ The temperatures are steamy. Florida hurricane season is coming! A murderer is terrorizing young women in Pelican Beach and so is the first storm of the season. A newly installed detective, Kat feels she knows the murderer but can’t place him, and it’s tearing at her. Her first suspect is debonair profiler Dimitri Garmonin who finds her intriguing. An excellent summer read. But also check out all the other contemporary detective novels/mysteries for any season on Nike N. Chillemi’s author page. Fast paced, taut suspense, action packed, sweet romance, quirky secondary characters, wry humor.
[image error]
[image error] LUNCH LADIES (What a Difference a Year Makes, Book 3) by Ruth O’Neil ~ “Everyone rattled off their offerings for the Fourth of July feast and the fun that would follow. Besides an enormous amount of food, there would be water balloons, water guns, yard games, pool fun, crafts, and of course fireworks. It really was the event of the summer that everyone looked forward to.” Cookouts, parades, picnics, swimming, camping. Whatever your summer activities, you’ll want to take this novel with you. These seven women will make your summer one to remember as you follow them through thick and thin. They’re best friends who stick together through storms and sunny days, sharing each sorrow and blessing. You’ll wish you were a part of their circle. Or maybe you’ll be encouraged to create a close-knit circle of friends with whom you can enjoy the highs and lows of this journey called life. Look for other books in Ruth O’Neil’s series What a Difference a Year Make.
[image error]
[image error] NATE’S HEALING (The Florida Irish Series, Book 6) by Suzanne D. Williams ~ Nate Sawyer has suffered a devastating illness when he meets his parent’s new neighbor, Georgianna Smith. Their attraction for each other sparks immediately. She’s funny and caring and a great cook. Yet a secret she carries grows larger and larger in her mind, and it could be he isn’t strong enough to accept it. Curl up by the pool or in your favorite chair and travel back to a simpler time this summer. Often lighthearted, the budding feelings of Nate and Georgianna are also frustrating and incredibly heartwarming. Take a glimpse at a cast of characters from The Florida Irish series in this short, 99 cent, historical romance novella, then check out more of this author’s book catalog.
[image error]
[image error] SHE’S MINE by Tammy Doherty ~ This summer is going to be explosive for Caitlin Harrington and Sean Taggart. Caitlin dreams of a quiet life teaching math at her hometown middle school. Except someone is leaving ominous notes on her door. It could be her ex-boyfriend or someone else who doesn’t want her back in town. Sean Taggart thinks Caitlin is beautiful…and possibly crazy. When he finds out the truth, Sean wants to help. Can he save Caitlin before the stalker turns to murder? If you take this book to the beach, be sure to slather on the sunscreen because you’ll be captivated and unable to stop reading until the end. As one reviewer says, “Fantastic read. Poured through this book because I couldn’t put it down! The storyline kept me guessing. There is a masterful plot twist, that I didn’t see coming – and I loved it!!
[image error]
[image error] KNIGHT IN SHINING APRON (Appleton, WV Romantic Mystery Series, Book 2) by Carole Brown ~ Come spend your summer in Appleton, WV where everyone knows everyone and there’s always another mystery going on. Friends are loyal, and the foes are determined to win. Romance is swoony-worthy and the mystery is intriguing. Meet friends like a professor-turned-author, a knighted chef from England, a restaurant owner who can’t cook, an Italian carpenter, a brother and sister who co-own an antique/junk/collectible shop and more. Help discover who the villains are. Whether you’re at the beach, the mountains, or at home, these books will transport you to a world that will make you year to visit or live in Appleton. Don’t just settle for one book. Check all the books in this Appleton, WV Romantic Mystery series, with more coming.
[image error]
[image error] JUSTICE FOR ELIZABETH (Detective Carhill Mystery Book 2) by Mary Vee ~ Sipping sweet iced tea on the veranda of a Manhattan mansion seems divine, unless you are Elizabeth Alexander, wife of the man on trial for embezzlement. A speedy trial, the best lawyer money can buy backs away, and circumstantial evidence feeds the gossipers and threatens the Alexander family name. Elizabeth hires Detective Carhill, PI, to find the one who set up her husband. Murder, romance, kidnapping, shopping. Sweet ingredients to a summer read you’re sure to love.
[image error]
[image error] WITHIN GOLDEN BANDS (A Home for My Heart Book 2) by Norma Gail ~ Take a summer vacation in Scotland without leaving home! Within Golden Bands: A Home for My Heart Book Two offers a tender love story and edgy romantic suspense all rolled into one. Newly married Bonny MacDonell finds the transition from American college professor to Scottish sheep farmer’s wife more difficult than she expected. When her miracle pregnancy ends in a devastating miscarriage, she fears her husband’s reaction will hurt more than the loss of their child. But Kieran never shows up at the hospital. When found, he is beaten and unconscious. The only memory of his attacker is the words, “Get off my land.” Reeling from the threats and the loss of their child, they struggle to hold her marriage together. Will faith and love be enough? And don’t miss Book One, Land of My Dreams, a sweet, Christian romance set in Scotland and New Mexico.
[image error] [image error][image error]
July 13, 2020
Small Boats and Big Waves – with Giveaway
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Please welcome Leeann Betts to the blog today!
Small boats—and the thought of drowning, terrify me. This fear paralyzed me and caused me to miss out on numerous things—until God helped me see the bigger picture.
We went to Peru on a mission trip with my church. We arrive at a collection of tiny structures in the middle of nowhere, providing food and supplies for weary travelers. We slip, slide, and scramble down a muddy bank to the water’s edge where our sailing craft awaits. I look upstream. Nothing but a couple of canoes. I look downstream. A metal boat about ten feet long, its canvas covering long rotted—a tiny outboard putt-putting to life under the tentative ministrations of a teenage boy.
My hubby helps me clamber in, and I sit in the middle of the middle seat, clinging to the edges of the warped board. The rest of the team is chatting, laughing, leaning against the side, ignoring me, for which I’m thankful. I think, “Okay, God, I can do this. I just have to do this one more time, on Sunday, when we leave.”
I ask about crocodiles, and they laugh and say there aren’t any. Phew! “But keep your hands out of the water,” somebody says. “There are piranha.”
Oh, nice.
When will this be over?
Then the Lord showed me the riverbanks, which in some places looked like sculpted sand. He reminded me that the river didn’t carve these banks, because although we’re at the headwaters of the Amazon, the water is slow-moving.
God pointed out the wake of the boat nudging up against the riverbank, and told me that the hundreds of boats that ply these waters daily made the contours in the riverbank.
[image error] Click the cover
to go to Amazon“You are like the waves,” He said. “A little touch here. A nudge there. Your presence changes the lives of people, just like the wake changes the shoreline.”
In Risk Management, Carly learns that her life makes a difference. She must make decisions about a future she doesn’t want. And while the Peru connection isn’t where we find her, it, too, makes a difference.
Question for readers: How has God spoken to you recently about making a difference?We will draw randomly from all comments left for a free ebook copy of Risk Management.
About Leeann:Leeann Betts writes contemporary romantic suspense, while her real-life persona, Donna Schlachter, pens historical romantic suspense. Risk Management is the 12th and final story in her cozy mystery series, “By the Numbers”. Watch for a segue novella in September that weaves Carly’s story with the upcoming new cozy mystery series, “Mysterious Ink Bookstore Mysteries”, with its first title releasing in December 2020. Together she and Donna have published more than 30 novellas, devotionals, and full-length novels. They ghostwrite, judge writing contests, edit, facilitate a critique group, and are members of American Christian Fiction Writers, Writers on the Rock, Christian Authors Network, Pikes Peak Writers, and Sisters in Crime. Leeann travels extensively to research her stories, and is proud to be represented by Terrie Wolf of AKA Literary LLC.
Website: www.LeeannBetts.comStay connected so you learn about new releases, preorders, and presales, as well as check out featured authors, book reviews, and a little corner of peace. Plus: Receive a free ebook simply for signing up for our free newsletter!Bonanza Books-in-a-Flash:order autographed print copies of books that are shipped directly from the author.Blog: www.AllBettsAreOff.wordpress.comFacebook: http://bit.ly/1pQSOqVTwitter: http://bit.ly/1qmqvB6Books: Amazon http://amzn.to/2dHfgCE and Smashwords: http://bit.ly/2z5ecP8 What Can Be Online University: online courses on the craft of writingEtsy online shop of original artwork, book folding art, and gift items
Please welcome Leeann Betts to the blog today!
Small boats—and the thought of drowning, terrify me. This fear paralyzed me and caused me to miss out on numerous things—until God helped me see the bigger picture.
We went to Peru on a mission trip with my church. We arrive at a collection of tiny structures in the middle of nowhere, providing food and supplies for weary travelers. We slip, slide, and scramble down a muddy bank to the water’s edge where our sailing craft awaits. I look upstream. Nothing but a couple of canoes. I look downstream. A metal boat about ten feet long, its canvas covering long rotted—a tiny outboard putt-putting to life under the tentative ministrations of a teenage boy.
My hubby helps me clamber in, and I sit in the middle of the middle seat, clinging to the edges of the warped board. The rest of the team is chatting, laughing, leaning against the side, ignoring me, for which I’m thankful. I think, “Okay, God, I can do this. I just have to do this one more time, on Sunday, when we leave.”
I ask about crocodiles, and they laugh and say there aren’t any. Phew! “But keep your hands out of the water,” somebody says. “There are piranha.”
Oh, nice.
When will this be over?
Then the Lord showed me the riverbanks, which in some places looked like sculpted sand. He reminded me that the river didn’t carve these banks, because although we’re at the headwaters of the Amazon, the water is slow-moving.
God pointed out the wake of the boat nudging up against the riverbank, and told me that the hundreds of boats that ply these waters daily made the contours in the riverbank.
[image error] Click the cover
to go to Amazon“You are like the waves,” He said. “A little touch here. A nudge there. Your presence changes the lives of people, just like the wake changes the shoreline.”
In Risk Management, Carly learns that her life makes a difference. She must make decisions about a future she doesn’t want. And while the Peru connection isn’t where we find her, it, too, makes a difference.
Question for readers: How has God spoken to you recently about making a difference?We will draw randomly from all comments left for a free ebook copy of Risk Management.
About Leeann:Leeann Betts writes contemporary romantic suspense, while her real-life persona, Donna Schlachter, pens historical romantic suspense. Risk Management is the 12th and final story in her cozy mystery series, “By the Numbers”. Watch for a segue novella in September that weaves Carly’s story with the upcoming new cozy mystery series, “Mysterious Ink Bookstore Mysteries”, with its first title releasing in December 2020. Together she and Donna have published more than 30 novellas, devotionals, and full-length novels. They ghostwrite, judge writing contests, edit, facilitate a critique group, and are members of American Christian Fiction Writers, Writers on the Rock, Christian Authors Network, Pikes Peak Writers, and Sisters in Crime. Leeann travels extensively to research her stories, and is proud to be represented by Terrie Wolf of AKA Literary LLC.
Website: www.LeeannBetts.comStay connected so you learn about new releases, preorders, and presales, as well as check out featured authors, book reviews, and a little corner of peace. Plus: Receive a free ebook simply for signing up for our free newsletter!Bonanza Books-in-a-Flash:order autographed print copies of books that are shipped directly from the author.Blog: www.AllBettsAreOff.wordpress.comFacebook: http://bit.ly/1pQSOqVTwitter: http://bit.ly/1qmqvB6Books: Amazon http://amzn.to/2dHfgCE and Smashwords: http://bit.ly/2z5ecP8 What Can Be Online University: online courses on the craft of writingEtsy online shop of original artwork, book folding art, and gift items
June 8, 2020
Rice Pilaf
You might think this is going to be another food blog, but it isn't. Well, sort of, but not really. Rice pilaf. It's such a little thing. Yet, it's such a big thing. You see, last year I fixed a meal for an older couple at our church. The wife was undergoing chemotherapy and several of us were taking them meals. I made grilled chicken, grilled vegetables, and rice pilaf. An hour after I dropped that meal off, I received a phone call from the husband."That was the best meal anyone's ever cooked for us. Especially that rice pilaf. That's my favorite."
It made me happy to think that such a simple little thing could make someone's day.
Recently, after a time of remission, the wife's cancer came back.
"Is there anything I can do for you?" I asked the husband when I saw him.
"Are you making rice pilaf anytime soon?"
I laughed. "When do you want some?"
"Saturday night?"
"You got it."
After the second rice pilaf (with grilled teriyaki pork chops and corn) delivery, I got a text. I'm not posting that because it's a little embarrassing with his over the top praise.
My whole point is that during these times of difficulty, look for the little things you can do for someone. Does an elderly neighbor who is afraid to go out need groceries? Deliver flowers to a shut-in. Take your kids to visit with someone who is not able to leave the house. (Little kids are great for lifting people's spirits!) Drop off homemade cookies or cake to a friend. Send handwritten cards to long distance friends and relatives. Find that little thing that you can do to show you miss someone or are thinking about them even during these times of social distancing.
Don’t stay holed up in your house. Get out there and do some small thing for another person. It will improve their day and yours.
May 11, 2020
Canning Chicken Tortilla Soup
Lately, I've put a lot of time into canning. I love walking down to my basement and seeing shelves full of healthy, prepared foods. I think I've been on a canning kick since quarantine has been keeping me at home, my shelves were a little depleted from this past winter's use, and the weather has been unseasonably cool. The canning helps warm the house up some without having to load up the wood stove. We really should be done with heating our homes by now, right?
Anyway, I shared a picture of one of my canning projects on Facebook last week and received a lot of requests for the recipe. I thought it might be a good idea to share it here as well. I started canning years ago when my kids started working and weren't home as often. It didn't matter how many people ended up home for dinner, I could open as many or as few jars as I needed. Home canned food is also much healthier than store bought canned food. Take a look at the ingredients and then look at the sodium content on some of the packaging. It's astonishing! And sometimes kind of gross.
I realize not everyone cans food, so I created the recipe for one batch. For canning, I double or triple the batch. Also, when I'm canning it, I use all fresh peppers and tomatoes. I also use dried beans as they get less mushy when canning. If you decide to make it, I'd love to see your pictures and hear your thoughts on how it tastes. It really couldn't be any easier to make.
The good stuff!
Chicken Tortilla Soup
½ cup diced onion
1 garlic clove, chopped
2 15 oz. cans black beans, drained
1 4.5 oz. can diced green chili peppers
1 14.5 oz. can of diced tomatoes
2 ½ cups chicken broth
1 cup fresh corn
1 Tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon cayenne
2 chicken breasts, cut into 1-2 inch pieces (raw is fine)
1 teaspoon salt
1.4 teaspoon pepper
1 bay leaf
Cilantro – keep separate
Dump everything, except the cilantro, in the crockpot. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Top with fresh chopped cilantro. (If you don't want to use a crock pot, you can also cook this on the stove top. Simmer for about an hour. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your family's preferences.)
(Canning directions: Cook the chicken to make the broth. Place the chicken in a stock pot and barely cover with water. It isn't necessary to add seasonings since you'll be adding that later. Simmer for about 30 minutes until chicken is cooked through. In a very large bowl, mix everything together except the broth but including one chopped bunch of cilantro. Mix it up really well and divide up between jars. Top off the jars with the broth to within an inch of the top. I usually fill the jar to just up under the rings. Wipe the rims with a vinegar soaked paper towel to remove any oil residue. Follow the manufacturer's directions for your pressure canner and process for 90 minutes for quart jars and 60 minutes for pint jars.)
When quadrupling the batch, I ended up with 10 quarts and 1 half pint.
May 7, 2020
Reintroduction
I had to step away from the blog posts for a little bit as life was overwhelming. Not bad. Nothing was wrong, just incredibly busy. I had to find a few things to drop and the blog was one of them. But, I feel now is the perfect time to pick it back up. Working on week 7 of quarantine here, I think I'm finally caught up and ready to begin again. It's funny how sometimes God knows how much you need a break and gives one to the entire world as well. I for one have been thankful for the downtime.So, what I have been doing during under house arrest? Working on some house projects. You know all those things that you walk past every day and say, "I need to take care of that," only you keep on walking? Yup. Got a bunch of those done. There's still a lot I want to do but I need a little help. Fortunately, my husband has been an essential worker so I haven't wanted to pester him with silly things.
All those little triangles are made up of 2-inch scrapsAnother thing I've been doing is working on ways to save money – repurpose, recycle. My mom was a great proponent of waste not, want not. I think I've managed to take that to a whole new level! The quilts I sew have become waste not the littlest pieces of fabric; instead, find an appropriate pattern with which to use them.
I have also put that attitude into my cooking. I love cooking food. I love canning food. I love eating food. Recently, I have discovered several recipes that put that waste-not-want-not mantra into practice. You know all those new subscriptions you can get for boxes of imperfect produce? I think it's a good idea. It's just one that has been standard in my home since I was a child. We had a garden growing up, and not every vegetable that came out of it was perfect. Did we throw it away? Absolutely not! You couldn't tell how ugly a green bean was once you cut it up!
So, I hope you'll stick with me along the way. I'll be posting about all the things I love: family, food, books, and quilts. Maybe you'll learn something from me, and maybe I'll learn something from you. Looking forward to what's ahead.
December 22, 2019
Monday Meditations - Nativity
Nativity
But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Philippians 2:7-8
When we think of nativity, Christmas automatically comes to mind. A nativity is simply the place, condition, and circumstances surrounding a birth. The Nativity is the place, conditions, and circumstances surrounding the birth of Christ.
The Place – Jesus was born in Bethlehem, which fulfilled prophecy. What a lowly place for the King to be born. Herod, evil as he was, was used by God as a tool. He was taking a census of the people, requiring them to return to the city of their birth. So Joseph packed up himself and a very pregnant Mary, to go to Bethlehem, thus fulfilling one prophesy of Jesus being born in Bethlehem.
The Conditions – While most of us were born in the sanitary conditions of a hospital, Jesus was born in a stable. If you’ve ever been in a barn, you know that it is anything but sanitary and not the most comfortable place to give birth. I'm sure a stable was not exactly what Mary had in mind.
The Circumstances – There is a lot of prophecy surrounding Christ’s birth. Just being born He fulfilled a number of prophesies. The only reason God came to earth in the form of a man was because of us. If it wasn't for our decisions to lead sinful lives, Jesus would have stayed in the comfort of His heavenly home.
If it wasn't for us, He would not have come.
[image error] If you enjoyed this post today, it is an excerpt from The 25 Days of Christmas Family Devotional. You can grab a copy for your family by clicking the cover to go to Amazon.
December 15, 2019
Monday Meditations - Rejoice
Rejoice
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Philippians 4:4
Rejoice – to take joy in, give joy to, take possession of
When an angel appeared to Mary and told her that she would bear a child – out of wedlock – how did she respond? She rejoiced. That would probably not be the response of most young women today had they had the same experience. They would probably scream, holler, cry, etc., but not Mary. Mary rejoiced.
Mary knew the Scriptures, as is evident in her song. Here she quotes the Old Testament 15 times. She rejoiced because God was giving her a gift, not only a gift just for her, but for the entire human race - past, present, and future. She rejoiced that she was the vessel God chose to use. While she was proud of this fact, she was not conceited. On the contrary, she was very humble. Mary was spending time with her cousin Elizabeth when she sang this song. I can't help but wonder if she needed a little bit of time to escape and soak up everything that God was doing for her and for the world.
We all have gifts God has given us. We should rejoice in those gifts and use them accordingly. But, be careful not to be jealous of another’s gift. One of the Ten Commandments says, “Do not covet.” That applies not only to physical things, but to spiritual things as well.
Rejoice that God has sent the Savior. Rejoice in the gift He has given you to help you share the love of the Savior.
[image error] [image error] If you enjoyed this post today, it is an excerpt from The 25 Days of Christmas Family Devotional. You can grab a copy for your family by clicking the cover to go to Amazon.
December 8, 2019
Monday Meditations - Emmanuel
Emmanuel
Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel. Matthew 1:23
This story, like many stories I tell, was taken from a real-life scenario from a friend of mine:
While our son Kev was being wheeled into surgery, he just kept crying for his bear he had named Baby Jesus. Although Evie was only getting tubes, Kevin was having a more serious surgery. To be honest, that bear that had been dragged through the mud, into stores, many doctor visits, and finally into the hospital, had unknowingly become my security blanket that day.
I remember the empty feeling I felt as the nurse took Baby Jesus from me and took him off to the operating room to comfort my own baby. I know, it was an inanimate object, but just the feel of Kev’s ugly, scrawny, yet loved bear was somehow giving me comfort when I didn’t have my own baby in my arms.
I sat there in the waiting room for a few minutes feeling empty and alone when suddenly I remembered my Emmanuel. My “God with us!” While Kev needed that bear to give him comfort in his childlike belief of Baby Jesus, I had the real-life version of a Savior who came on Christmas morning. Born to die so that on the morning of my son’s surgery, Kev, in his childlike faith could cling to a bear named Baby Jesus and I could be filled with the presence of the now arisen King who knew my suffering mama’s heart and comforted me like no other person or object can.
The Hebrew "Immanuel" literally means “with us is God!” Can you imagine? No matter what we have to face, a tough class at school, a bully who will not leave us alone, a surgery we are dreading, a fear we just can’t get past; it doesn’t matter, God is with us!
One of my favorite Christmas songs. Hope you enjoy!
[image error] [image error]If you enjoyed this post today, it is an excerpt from The 25 Days of Christmas Family Devotional. You can grab a copy for your family by clicking the cover to go to Amazon.
December 1, 2019
Monday Meditations - Ornament
Ornament
They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor, their righteousness endures forever. Psalm 112:9a
Each year our trees look more and more beautiful as we place ornaments all over them. One year, while bringing home our Christmas tree on a very windy day, the tree blew off the top of the car, damaging the top portion of the tree. Once we placed the tree in its stand at home, we had to do a little doctoring to make that tree even somewhat presentable. Some strategically placed ornaments helped as well. Other people may not have noticed, if they didn't look too closely, but our family knew the truth behind it all.
Sometimes people are the same way. We dress ourselves up in nice clothes and put on a little make-up to improve our appearance, but all that preparation does nothing for what's on the inside. We may think we're fooling people, and we may be, but we can never fool God. He knows all about us, inside and out.
This Christmas season let's not jump to conclusions about how someone looks on the outside. Deep down inside we all want love. We want someone to care about us, even if we are only given a word or a smile.
God created us all. He loves us all. We need to love others unconditionally as He does.
[image error] If you enjoyed this post today, it is an excerpt from The 25 Days of Christmas Family Devotional. You can grab a copy for your family by clicking the cover to go to Amazon.
