Would You Marry in Order to Claim an Inheritance? Q&A with Author Dawn Crandall

The Hesitant Heiress Q & A with Author Dawn Crandall

Would you marry in order to claim an inheritance?

I guess it depends.

Author Dawn Crandall addresses that very question in her debut novel, The Hesitant Heiress. Written in a manner that would please Jane Austin herself, and any fan, but with a voice that is truly her own. The Hesitant Heiress is a read sure to please! Elegantly written, intriguing, a hint of suspense and description that throws you into the Victorian era. Dawn invites you to follow Amaryllis Brigham as she struggles through past hurt and rejection to find God’s place and plan for her life—a journey with which many of us can relate.

Today, we are fortunate enough to have Dawn as our guest! Dawn thank you for being here with us today!

Dawn: Thank you, Hannah! I’m so glad you chose to have our interview to take place on my first ever book release day! I’m probably at home right now freaking out… and trying to take care of my four month old… and doing a terrible job at that because I’m so distracted….

Me: I can only imagine! A first ever book release is something to get excited about! I’ve had the privilege of meeting you and chatting a bit, but there’s more I’d like to know about you, and I’m sure our readers could agree. When did you begin writing, and what do you love most about being an Author?

Dawn: I began writing The Hesitant Heiress (or back then, Amaryllis Brigham) in January of 2010. I’d been thinking about it for a few years while working full-time, but it wasn’t until we moved closer to my hometown that my husband encouraged me not to find a job, but to write. (Although I actually did work a little, I was a nanny for an infant of a friend of mine—writing during naptime on my laptop or iPod Touch).

What I like best about being an author is hearing from my readers. It’s amazing to learn what each reader pulls from the story.   

Read interview with author of the Cadence of Grace Series

Me: What inspired you to write The Hesitant Heiress?

Dawn: I honestly don’t know. I just started out that January with no plan (though I don’t always write like that now!) except to have fun with it. That was my primary goal. Not to be published, but to write a book that I would enjoy writing AND reading.

Me:  What was the easiest part about writing your novel? The hardest?  

Dawn: The easiest part was writing the awesome, intense “love and war” relationship between Amaryllis and Nathan Everstone. The hardest part was getting about three-fourths of the way through the book and not knowing how to get to the ending I had planned. 

Me: Well you succeeded! I'm keeping hush about the ending! The Hesitant Heiress has strong spiritual themes which I admire.  Your faith seems to have shaped your writing. Could you elaborate more on that observation

Dawn: Writing a spiritual journey arc into my main character’s beginning-to-end arc is one of my favorite parts of writing. I love figuring out and understanding the psychology of why people/characters do what they do. And then, if you throw in a spiritual journey in which God is also chasing after them, loving them and guiding them to where He wants them, or even where they can best find Him… What’s better than that? 

Me: I couldn't agree more, Dawn! God is good, even when we are crazy! Is there a book(s) and or author(s) that have influenced you in your writing and life?

Dawn: There are a lot of classics like Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë, Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier and Christy by Catherine Marshall—all books written from first person point of view… but that’s not all they have in common. It’s the refreshingly blunt honesty of the heroine as she tells her story that I’m so in love with.

Me: Many Authors use personal experiences in their writing. With that said, are there any instances or characters in the Hesitant Heiress in which you can relate to personally?

  Read interview with author of Catch a Falling Star

Dawn: Yes… not that this book is anywhere close based on any part of my life, there are times when Amaryllis goes through things that create the same kind of emotions I’ve felt in similar situations. But even in situations I’ve never been in, for some reason, I find it very easy to conjure up the correct emotions and so closely commiserate with what they might be feeling.

Me: What message do you hope readers receive from this captivating novel?

Dawn: That God does indeed know what He’s doing, and that He even works through our fumbling about as we’re trying to make sense of things.  

Me: Preach it, Dawn! I really loved Amaryllis Brigham’s character, and I’m not sure if it’s because I actually liked her personality or that your writing style made me feel like I was on this journey with her. Will her character appear in the other novels that I hear are coming out?



Book Two

Dawn: They do show up for the next book, but not as main players. I think you will all be pleased with seeing them again though. And oh, can I just say how very strange it was for me to write Amaryllis doing things in book two… but from Meredyth’s first person perspective? That was the weirdest thing ever! But I was sooooo into Meredyth, I really saw Amaryllis as Meredyth saw her! ……Okay, I’m done with the crazy-writer-talk now…..

Me: Haha, crazy-writer-talk! I completely understand! Okay, so, I adore history and all of the nitty gritty details. You impressed me with your ability to paint scenes so accurately to the time period. What kind of research did you use to help make your novel historically accurate?

Dawn: Thank you! I’m so glad you think I did a good job! I love writing descriptions—but the thing that I like best is writing them from where the main character is coming from. Everything anyone describes is always colored by where they are coming from.  

And really, I don’t really think of anything I ever do as research. I actually have so much fun finding out about history that it’s just something I’ve always done, even before I started writing.

Me: You’ve had a busy year! A new book, and a baby! You’re a first time Momma and Author! How are you adjusting, and how in the world are you finding time to write?

Dawn: Um, considering I just had my baby four months ago, and I’ve been pretty busy preparing for this book launch between diapers and bottles… I haven’t actually figured it out yet. I’ve tried a few different things… but I seriously have a very difficult time prying myself away from Mr. Adorable. I think I’m going to have to take a weekend away every once in a while.  

Me: Yes, you are totally going to have to get away! Come down to Tennessee with me for a writer's weekend! lol! Alright, let’s have a little fun getting to know you J

·       Favorite hobbies:

      Dawn: writing (well, it used to be a hobby!), reading, collecting photographs that go along with my characters and story-world [I was even doing this WAY before Pinterest!!]—which by the way, I have a Pinterest Board that goes along with The Hesitant Heiress—[www.pinterest.com/dawnwritesfirst/novel-1-the-hesitant-heiress-by-dawn-crandall-book]

      Me: LOVE the pinterest board!

·       Describe your “best day ever:”

      Dawn: I’m a very low-key celebrator...

      Me: Low key parties are sometimes the best!

·       Dessert you find impossible to say no to:

      Dawn: Chocolate Lava Cake. Yummmm!

      Me: Yes, YUMMM!

·       Dream vacation:

      Dawn: Spending forever on the rocky coast of Acadia National Park/Mount Desert Island, Maine—and yes, that’s why I wrote it into my book!

      Me: I've never been to Maine, but after checking out all the picks, it's on my list of places to visit now!

·        Three most important things in your life, in order of top priority:

       Dawn: God, my husband, my son… (I’m still not used to saying that!!!)

       Me: Amen to that! Any parting thoughts, comments, etc. you would like to add for your viewers?

Dawn: Don’t give up on your dreams—if it’s what you want more than anything, keep trying. I’d given up on having a baby a long time ago, and I’ve given up thinking this book—as different as it is from most—would ever be published so many times in the last few years. And now they’ve both become reality. At this time last year, I never would have imagined that this is how 2014 would turn out! 

Me: Thank you so much for being here today with us Dawn!! Hey sweet readers, please take a moment to comment below for a chance to win AMAZING prizes. Also, feel free to connect with Dawn and read more about The Hesitant Heiress via the info provided below.


{Connect With Dawn}
Facebook: facebook.com/DawnCrandallWritesFirst 
Book Review Blog: APassionforPages.blogspot.com 
GoodReads: www.goodreads.com/dawn_crandall
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/dawnwritesfirst
Email: dawncrandallwritesfirst@gmail.com
Twitter: @dawnwritesfirst

{About Dawn Crandall}

      A graduate of Taylor University with a degree in Christian Education, and a former bookseller at Barnes & Noble, Dawn Crandall didn’t begin writing until 2010 when her husband found out about her long-buried dream of writing a book. Without a doubt about someday becoming traditionally published, he encouraged her to quit working in order to focus on writing The Hesitant Heiress. It didn’t take her long to realize that writing books was what she was made to do. Dawn is represented by Joyce Hart of Hartline Literary.

Apart from writing books, Dawn is also a first-time mom to a precious little boy (born March 2014) and also serves with her husband in a pre-marriage mentor program at their local church in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Dawn is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers, secretary for the Indiana ACFW Chapter (Hoosier Ink), and associate member of the Great Lakes ACFW Chapter.

The Everstone Chronicles is Dawn’s first series with Whitaker House. All three books composing the series were semifinalists in ACFW’s prestigious Genesis Writing Contest, the third book going on to become a finalist in 2013.

{About The Hesitant Heiress}
             After being unjustly expelled from the Boston Conservatory of Music, Amaryllis Brigham sees her dreams of founding a music academy disappearing before her very eyes. Now the only way to achieve her goal comes with high stakes for someone set on avoiding men as much as possible: marry within the year to inherit her grandmother’s fortune. Amaryllis reluctantly takes part in her aunt’s society, intent on getting to the west coast on her own… and without a husband.

Despite her own misgivings, she soon finds herself falling in love with the most unlikely of men, Nathan Everstone, whose father not only had a part in her expulsion, but whose ominous presence has haunted her dreams for a decade since her mother’s tragic death. Nathan turns out to be much more than he seems and everything she never knew she wanted. But just as everything Amaryllis has recently hoped for comes to fruition, it all falls apart when she finds that the real culprit who has been managing her life isn't who she thought at all.

An interview with Beth Vogt, Author of Catch a Falling Star

An interview with Beth Vogt, Author of Catch a Falling Star 

Is there ever a point when you should let go of a dream? Shouldn’t you be content with what God has already given you, even if your life isn’t what society considers the norm? In Catch a Falling Star (Howard Books/May 7, 2013/ISBN 9781451660272/$14.99), Beth K. Vogt tells the story of Dr. Kendall Haynes, a successful family physician with a thriving practice, helping others just as she always planned. However, at age 36, her dream of a husband and family has not come true — at least not yet. 

Q: Is there a message you hope readers walk away with after finishing Catch a Falling Star?  
Everyone experiences life not going according to their plans — the outcomes range from humorous to tragic. What I’ve learned — what I hope readers discover as they turn the pages of Catch a Falling Star — is God is in the plans, the dreams that come true, and he’s also in the plans that elude us.  
Q: Kendall finds herself on her 36th birthday without the husband and family she longs for. Do think society sometimes adds undue pressure on our expectations and/or interferes with our faith in God’s timing?  
I certainly believe the church community can add unrealistic pressure on us when life doesn’t go according to plan — or some prescribed, “right” way to walk out the Christian life. Several years ago I read an article by a respected Christian leader who chastised Christian women for waiting so long to get married, reminding them they shouldn’t delay starting a family so they could have a career. He was assuming these women were turning down marriage proposals right and left. There are lots of reasons women are getting married later, and sometimes it’s because Mr. Right doesn’t show up when you’re 21 or 31. And then the question — the challenge for the church community — is: Where do older singles, both men and women, fit in the church?  

Q: What was the inspiration behind making your lead characters a little older than most couples in love stories?  
My stories are often sparked by some real-life circumstance, and this was the case for Catch a Falling Star. I had an eye-opening conversation with a friend who was in her mid-40s. She has a successful career, lots of friends, a very satisfying life in so many ways — and yet some of her dreams haven’t come true, including in the area of marriage and children. And she’s not the only person I know experiencing this. I wanted to examine this issue within the context of a contemporary romance novel because it’s relevant — and because I believe romance doesn’t just happen in your 20s.  

Q: Catch a Falling Star looks at more relationships than simply the traditional love story. How do the experiences of singleness, adoption and the loss of parents connect the characters together?  
All of these relationships fall under the umbrella of “life not going according to plan.” Relationships rarely do; they require hard work. Commitment. Trust. Prayer. Patience. Sacrifice. This is why I say there is more to happily ever after than the fairy tales tell us.  

Q: Your male lead is in the Air Force, much like your own husband was in the Air Force. Are there other parts of your life written into the story?  
Griffin Walker, the male lead, is an Air Force A-10 pilot who graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy. My husband graduated from the Academy with an astronautical engineering degree (Yes, I’m married to a rocket scientist!) and then went to medical school. I did inflict a particular medical condition on Griffin I’ve had to deal with. Poor guy. Kendall Haynes, the female lead, is a family physician in solo practice in Colorado Springs, just like my husband. The theme of adoption was developed because I’ve watched a close friend embrace the ministry of adoption in her life, and I do believe adoption is a God-given ministry. 

Q: One of your themes in Catch a Falling Star looks at how people respond differently to disappointment and unexpected circumstances. Which character do you most identify with in these situations and why?  
There’s a bit of me in Kendall. I can say things straight-up, but behind that character quality can be a heart that is unsure of my own worth. It’s something I wrestled with for many years . . . I hit my knees over and over again in prayer about who I am in God’s eyes. One of my favorite Scriptures that talks about how much God values us is “Behold I have inscribed you on the palms of My hands . . .” (Psalm 49:16a NASB).

 Q: Have you ever had to give up on a dream yourself?  
Yes. Everything from letting go of a nonfiction book idea I believed so strongly in because it helps strengthen mother-son relationships to having to realize I couldn’t resolve a long-standing relationship conflict, at least for now. I choose to trust that God is in both of these situations, that he is still working even when I can’t see it.  

Q: How has God surprised you in your life with plans of His own?  
I believe God’s best is often behind the door marked “Never.” My original life plans included never marrying anyone in the military and never marrying a doctor. Um . . . I married an Air Force physician. At one time I said I didn’t want to have children; we have four children, including our “caboose kiddo,” who was born 12-and-a- half years after our third (and supposedly last) child. And I also said I was never going to write fiction — but God turned a season of burnout into a bend in the road. I’m getting ready to turn in my third contemporary romance novel.  

Q: How was writing your second novel different than the first? Are there any lessons you learned the first time around?  
In some ways writing Catch a Falling Star was easier because I had learned the fundamentals of writing a novel. But in other ways it was more difficult because my mentor, author Rachel Hauck, challenged me on a daily basis to up my game, to push past my writing abilities. I also learned how important it is to lean into God as I walk the writing road so I can keep the right perspective on both the praise and the negative feedback. One of the things I do now is listen to the song “Lead Me to the Cross” by Hillsong each morning before I begin writing. 

Visit Beth Vogt’s website at www.bethvogt.com to learn more about her books, sign-up for her newsletter, and read her blog. Readers can also follow her adventures on Facebook (AuthorBethKVogt) and Twitter (@bethvogt). 

Summer Reading List: What's On Yours?

Oh Summer.

Pause for affectionate sigh.

Pools. Water balloons. Late nights catching lightening bugs, grilling out, and movies at the park.

Just feeling the sun against my face makes summer quite glorious, but reading--books on my beloved summer reading list--is like the cherry on top of this season.

This year I have some lofty reading goals, but hey, shoot high, right? The kids are even chiming in to create their own list--I'll share it too!

Not only am I aiming high, I'm shooting wide and seeking to read a variety of genres, and topics. This writer's got to be well rounded.

So without further ado, meet my new poolside friends....

1: Smart Money, Smart Kids by Dave Ramsey & Rachel Cruze /Nonfiction/Instructional

2: The Hesitant Heiress by Dawn Crandall (Releasing in August! Stay tuned for a Review!)/Historical Fiction

3: Bringing Up Girls by Dr. James Dobson /Nonfiction/Instructional

4: Wedded to War by Jocelyn Green/ Historical Fiction

5: Promise to Return by Elizabeth Byler Younts/ Historical Fiction

6: The Jewel Series Anthology by Hallee Bridgeman /Romance

7: Divergent by Veronica Roth /Young Adult/Scifi/Fantasy

8: Harry Potter & the Sorcerer’s Stone by JK Rowling /Young Adult/Fantasy (I have to re-peruse this book nearly every summer!!!)

9: Iscariot by Tosca Lee / Historical Fiction/Biblical Times

10:  Sisterchicks on the Loose by Robin Jones Gunn /Women’s Fiction/Comedy/Friendship

11: Home Maintenance for Dummies by James Carey & Morris Carey Jr. (Yeah, if this book doesn’t help me fix things, then it’s back to youtube instructional videos, lol).

WHEW…but wait, there’s more J ….

Books I will be diving into to continue to sharpen my writing skills:

1: Plot & Structure by James Scott Bell

2: Revision and Self-Editing for Publication by James Scott Bell

3: Plot Versus Character: A Balanced Approach to Writing Great Fiction by Jeff Gerke

Now For the Kids:

The kiddo's reading list is a bit different, more interactive, and filled with variety. It's more like a Creative Story Kids Summer Camp, lol. It includes books to read, movies to watch, book reports to write/draw/create, and stories to create.

Goal: Choose and complete 10 of the 15 items on the list before school starts.
1: Watch the Lion King & create a book report--drawn or written.
2: Research an animal or historical event of your topic & create a fact sheet from what you learned.
3: Cut out pictures from a magazine. Glue them on a sheet a paper, and make up a story using the images on your paper.
4: Read a book, magazine, or comic book of your choice
5: Pick a writing prompt from our 642 Things to Write About and fill a page with what you have to say.
6: Read a book, magazine, or comic book your choice
7: Watch: Honey I shrunk the Kids, because I LOVED that movie as a kid!
8: Watch Mary Poppins, just because it's fun.
9: Find a recipe for your favorite food. Plan a time to create this food. Eat it and discuss how it turned out...good? or bad? What could you have done differently?
10: Read: A book, magazine, or comic book of your choice
11: Watch Ratatouille, and spend time reading through recipes from around the world using the internet. Make a few if you're feeling up to it! ;)
12: Compare & Contrast two movies on this list. This can be done in written form, or diagram.
13: Read a book, magazine, or comic book of your choice
14: Watch the Parent Trap (the original with Haley Mills), and create a list of all the other tricks the twins could've done to the fiancé.
15: Read a book, magazine, or comic book of your choice

When creating a summer reading list for yourself or you kiddos, include both fiction and nonfiction books, movies & documentaries. Make it FUN, and give incentives along the way as they mark off their Summer Reading List, like popsicles, a crazy game they've been asking to play or stickers. Be creative! ;)

Asking yourself a couple of questions can help you create that perfect summer reading list. Questions like these:

1: What interests you/them?
Do you like mystery? Romance? Both? Do your kids like a certain cartoon character?
Letting kids pick books/magazines/comic books that interests them helps foster a love for reading. Being forced to read things is never fun. Ugh. Anyone remember how awful some of those books were in High School?
2: What would they/you like to know or what places would they/you like to go?
Often times picking up nonfiction books on how things are made, travel destinations, or a specific historical event can be a lot of fun for you and your kids. Remember, kids really do love to learn, especially when you're excited about it.

Hopefully, these tips help you create a list that's just right for you and your family, but if not, feel free to copy ours.

Fearless Faith: Lesson Learned from a 3 Year Old

Fearless Faith?

Isn't faith void of fear? Maybe for you, but for me, faith is more like looking down at a canyon bottom knowing the only way to cross is to jump, believing I can make it--if I can work up the courage, but so scared to try.

 

As I'm wrapping up my first novel, preparing for the final edits (if there really such a thing as final edits), and looking forward to publishing and all that entails, I find myself doing a lot of that whole fear thing again. It's pretty unattractive. I stand in the mirror, hair frazzled, coffee stains on my t-shirt, eyes wide. Can I do this? Who am I to write a novel? Why would God want to use me, and who in the world would ever read something I wrote? Then I start doing this weird deep breathing thing, and thank God my husband is at work so he doesn't have to see this. What if someone actually reads my novel, hates it, and writes a terrible amazon review? What if I completely fail and people use the pages of my book as toilet paper!? Or what if I succeed, and I can't respond to their emails in time, and tick off my readers, and they start badmouthing me all over the place? What if everyone starts thinking I'm like this super Christian that never messes up, and I completely blow it, fall off a pedestal they've put me on, and ruin the message of Christ for everyone!?

 

Wow. I really need to get it together. It's crazy how I'm afraid to fail and succeed!

 

My daughter, God bless that little free spirit, is fearless. She knows no bounds, and I deeply admire that characteristic. Just the other day, she was jumping from the swingset landing area--about 3 foot high--, and loving every minute of it.

 

I ran over to her. "Honey, don't do that. You'll get hurt."

 

She smiled, bobbing her head. "It's okay, Mommy. After I get hurt, I'll get better."

 

Her answer stunned me, cracked me up, and then hit me to the core. My child was speaking God's truth to me!

 

I've lost count of how many times God's Word says, "Don't be afraid," "Be courageous," "Do not fear." Apparently fear is a common theme throughout humanity. Ugh, it's tough being human. By the way, I still made my daughter get down from the landing--ain't got time for a trip the emergency room.

 

Here's the deal. It's okay if I fail, 'cause after I get hurt, I'll get better. And it's okay if I succeed; God will keep me...I'll ask Him to EVERY SINGLE DAY, pestering Him all of the time with my request to keep me from being a stumbling block to others in their Faith.

 

My conclusion?  This is what I will tell myself in the mirror when I start having a highly unattractive freak out moment:

1: I am a daughter of the King, and He says I have value no matter if a million people read my book or if no one reads it; no matter if people love it or hate.

2: God has given me a desire to write, and a story to share, so I'm gonna do just that.

3: I have faith, and even if I get hurt, it'll be okay 'cause I'll get better.

 

What about you? Ever had issues stepping out on Faith? I'd love to hear about it! :)

 

 

Fun Project Friday! Sea Salt Painting!

Sea Salt Sensations!

Getting Crafty with the kiddos!

It's been a consistent goal of mine to be more intentional with how I interact with my kiddos. It's so easy for me to stay busy with housework, writing and editing, and volunteering for one million things, that I sometimes...well...BIG CONFESSION here people, so no judging...I sometimes find myself saying "Mommy can't play right now," or "Just a few more minutes, and I'll be right there." I have to make myself wake up and realize my babies are growing up, so it's important for me to make the time to roll on the ground with them, do messy crafts, laugh and make silly faces. Being intentional works...setting mothering goals works, and so does this awesome craft below!!! LOVED doing this probably more than the kids.

Supplies:

• Construction Paper
• Glue (I'm an Elmer's gal)
• Sea Salt (Course works best, but I went with the find ground stuff we had on hand)
• Water Color Paints
• Paint Brushes
• Small Towel if your child is prone to beautiful messes like mine

Step 1: Use the glue to draw different designs and images on your construction paper. The kids had a great time helping to create their own designs. Yes, that's Yoda. I'm pretty proud of it. :)

Tip: Make SEVERAL images. I believe I made eight, four for each kiddo, thinking that would be plenty, BUT this craft goes fast, so if you want the fun to last, make more salty glue drawings.

Step 2: Shake salt over the glue, covering all of the glue image/design, and then shake off the excess salt over the trash can.

Step 3: Let the salty glue image dry. This typically takes 40mins to 1hr. If you're in a hurry, I suppose you could always use a hairdryer? We made cookies while we waited...well...more like, we ate the cookie dough, and made only a few cookies.

Step 4: Prep your water colors, and begin to paint the salty glue design! The salt absorbs the water, almost pulling the color from the tip of the paintbrush. Pretty magical. There were a lot of oooh's and aahh's.

 

Step 5: You're done!! The water color dries almost instantly! Hang those beauties' on the wall to show off to family and friends!

Tips:
Great idea for a Frozen themed Birthday Party
Excellent way to twist up crafts and drawings Military Children send to their deployed parent
Fun activity to use in a science class
Creative way to teach your preschooler to write his/her name, alphabet and numbers

Movie Review: Mom's Night Out

Moms' Night Out, Opening in Theaters May 9th! Mother's Day Weekend!

Skip the flowers, and chocolate this Mother's Day. Go see this movie instead! Well, don't feel like you have to jip on the flowers and chocolate, but do go see this movie!

Today I'm giving my movie review for Moms' Night Out, which will be releasing in a theater near you on May 9th. Before I begin, I would like to thank Emeals for sending me, and my husband to this premiere. We had an amazing evening! Emeals makes meal planning on a budget easy for any family. Check out emeals.com for a variety of meal options that include gluten free, paleo, vegan, and entire crockpot meal recipes. Nice, right?

So. Motherhood. It's...hard...fun...crazy...messy...amazing...tiring...full of self-sacrifice, but totally worth it.  Moms' Night Out, does an excellent job of portraying all the ups, downs, ins and outs of mom-life. In this film, a few stressed out Moms, in desperate need of a night off, away from their children, embark on a MNO (Moms' Night Out) that ends up TOTALLY opposite of the fun-filled, kid-free, relaxing evening they envisioned. Everything that could go wrong, goes wrong and everyone...husbands, wives, kids, and their "newly acquired friends," end up at the county jail to create what surely has to be the worst MNO EVER, with the best outcome! This film acknowledges the challenges mothers face, encourages them to embrace the beautiful-wonderful mess that motherhood can be, and affirms them in the importance of their God given roles as mothers with very life like scenarios that made me, and my husband, laugh, and even tear up at times (Note: I teared up, not him.). It's a Faith based film, action packed without crazy violence, no offensive or suggestive language, super funny, and definitely a movie to watch with the family. I give this movie my stamp of approval, and two thumbs up! 

For more ministry resources or information on group tickets for your church, Mom's group and or other organization, click here.

My first initial, sorta random thoughts about this movie:
"Um...am I the inspiration for this movie, 'cause I'm pretty sure this is a documentary of me...having crazy mom-moments?"
"Oh wow! They're talking about God!"
"Oh...it's a Faith based film! Hello Ministry opp!"
"Yes! Yes! This movie depicts motherhood in ways that words don't seem to justify! I feel like I need to hug the writers/producers or anyone on the production team that will let me hug them!"
"Hilarious! Bahahaha"
"Oh my word...the preacher's wife got tazed! Bless her heart. Bahahaha"
"No curse words! Score!"
"No crude humor...awesome-sauce...the kids can watch this!"

Enjoy the pics from our premiere experience!

Tried on 4 dresses, decided on the black one! Ready for my first movie premiere!

My poor hubby had to be pepper sprayed at work that day! Bahahaha! I know I have a sick sense of humor. Sorry.
His ear was still burning, but he held my door open!
What a Gentleman!

At the theater! We may have been just sorta slightly over dressed, but who cared?! It was awesome!!
And we had a nice, KID FREE, dinner after the movie! Win, Win!

They gave us a goody bag!! I LOVE FREE STUFF!

Score!!

http://momsnightoutmovie.com/

Freedom: Our Best and Worst Enemy

America will never be destroyed from the outside. If we falter and lose our freedoms, it will be because we destroyed ourselves.      ~ Abraham Lincoln

I couldn't help but throw in a historical quote. Sometimes it's better to let the historian in me get its way from time to time.

Lately I've been reading through the Old Testament and haven't been able to dismiss the numerous present day applications this ancient text contains. Stories of great faith, incredible courage, epic failures and triumphant comebacks spring from the pages and shout "Listen and Learn."

Over and over I read about God's people, who were given Freedom but chose bondage. Why? Because God's Freedom comes with guidelines. If God's people would obey His commands, and live their lives in ways meant for their own benefit, then they would remain free, but if they turned from God and lived in disobedience then they would find themselves in bondage. Oh, they would choose God's way, but then soon choose their own watered down, sad replacement version of Freedom. Their way always ended up in their emotional, physical and spiritual captivity.

How are we, the people of this nation and this world, any different from the Israelites of the Bible (God's people)? We want freedom on our own terms. We shake our fists at God's Word like temperamental toddlers telling him we're going to live the way we want because it makes us happy, or we can't help the way we are. The truth is, we just want our way. We want like-minded people to rally around us with affirmation for our life choices. The truth is, God loves us (John 3:16). He has a plan for our life (Jeremiah 29:11), and what better person to give us direction than the one who made us, and knows everything--past, present and future? It's a no brainer, but we still persist on living life on our own terms.

Some may say, "It's not true freedom if there are stipulations." You're right, but this world isn't equipped to handle true freedom and neither are we, hence the heinous nightly news reports. That's why God provides the way we should go, and even when He takes us through the mire of life, He shows us how to handle it.

Some may say, "It's not fair for God to discipline His people. That's cruelty, not love." I have to be honest and say that the Old Testament is FREAKY at times, but I've developed a healthy respect for God and I'm learning just how serious sin is. At the same time, this God who disciplines and allows bad things to happen is the same God who would rather pull in the reigns, and set guidelines in hopes that not one of His people would self-destruct. God wants to save us from ourselves as we live out our version of freedom.

Here's the thing: we all may think we're right; that our truth is true, that it's the choice we should make, and we're not hurting anyone else etc. But Proverbs 14:12 says "There is a path before each person that seems right, but it ends in death."

My husband fights for our country's freedom, as do many of my friend's spouses. It's worth fighting for, but it can be our best or worst enemy, so let's choose God's path and His stipulations for liberty.

Choosing Life: A Celebration Baby Shower at the Hope Pregnancy Center

The Feet of Those Who Were Given Life

As part of a Mom's group, I recently had the honor of taking part in hosting a Baby Shower for many mothers-to-be at the Hope Pregnancy Center here in Clarksville.

Months earlier, many of the women in attendance found themselves pregnant & scared. There were many who didn't want to be pregnant, didn't want the baby, and considered having an abortion.

But they changed their mind. Some will choose adoption for their baby, and bless a loving and deserving family. But all of these women chose life.


Thank You Chick-Fil-A for
Donating to the Shower!

I admire their courage. In the face of fear they sought help and guidance. So many people, myself included, find it difficult to reach out in a time of need. I don't want anyone to think I'm incompetent. Besides, I'm an Army Wife, and we can do it all, right? 



Sweet Treats!

Their bellies were large, and their feet were swollen as these lovely ladies neared the end of their pregnancy. Were they still scared? I never asked, but to some degree, I'm sure they were. We chatted about due dates, gender, baby names, nursery rhymes and shared labor stories--women want those details.



The "Don't say Baby" game!

Listening, watching, and socializing with these women, I realized that every expectant mother deserves a baby shower. All of the shower stuff. From the fabulous food to the fun, right of passage baby shower games (I never lost my clothes pin!). Every mother-to-be deserves to be celebrated, especially these Mommas, because they chose life when they didn't have to, when they thought it would be easier not to, when they knew their families would disapprove of their situation and possibly abandon them. Even then, they still chose life. Now that is something to throw a shower for!

Gifts for All the Mommas!

No matter the circumstance, right, wrong, whatever the reason these women found themselves pregnant and at a Pregnancy Center, they are still a child of God. They are beautiful, worthy, loved, special, and hand crafted by our Creator with a purpose. The child they carry is not a mistake. That baby was handcrafted for a purpose, he or she is beautiful, loved, special and worthy of the best life possible.

I know I'm speaking for our group, but I'm praying that we as the host were able to bless these expectant Momma's as much as they blessed us.

Being an Army Wife, I've kind of adopted the saying of "grow where you're planted." For me, that means making a Kingdom impact on the community where I currently live. What better way to make a difference than partnering with a local pregnancy center to speak words of life and encouragement to women who may have found themselves unexpectedly expecting? 

A Salute to Love: Valentine's Day Tips & Recipes from Special Guest Author Joanne Bischof

Hate it or love it, Valentine's Day is almost here!

I get it. It's easy to understand how this Holiday can cause a case of the glooms. Gooey, unrealistic, mushy love movies are disgustingly addicting, and create insane expectations for relationships. And all those red and pink hearts. Ugh. It's like people have never seen real heart, 'cause if they had, they would know that a REAL heart resembles nothing like those we see posted EVERYWHERE on Valentine's Day! And what's with cupid? Since when is it EVER okay for a baby to wield a weapon!? And why hasn't someone put some clothes on that kid? It's February, and baby cupid is flying around in a diaper shooting arrows at people. Geez. Talk about some seriously bad parenting.

So yes, Valentine's Day or Cupid's arrows, may cause people some sore spots, but you know what helps boo-boo's? Yes, kisses help, but CHOCOLATE kisses work better. Throw in a hearty meal full of your favorite comfort foods, and BAM,  the Valentine's Day glooms dissipate!

I'm here today, with my sweet friend and author, Joanne Bischof, to help you make the most of this holiday! Enjoy the following tips, ideas and recipes to make your Valentine's Day memorable.

1:  Remember that though Valentine's Day may be cheesy, love isn't, and love is ALWAYS worth celebrating.
2:  Sit down with your children and make cards and candies for family, friends, neighbors (or even your deployed spouse).
3:  Create a list of all the things you love about your spouse, children, loved one, and send it to him/her or read the list aloud.
4:  Make the night/day special by creating a nice sit down meal, or special dessert (recipes below!).
5:  If you have kids, have fun creating and eating heart shaped foods (Pizza works great! Jello too!).
6: Take a Bubble Bath...that's a must anytime of the week!
7:  Decorate your table or eating area. Want romantic? Turn off the lights and ad your own! Think lanterns, oil lamps, mason jars! Want fun? Think red, pink, white tissue balls hanging around, or glitter/confetti balloons. Think, a living room fort for the kids, table for two for you and your honey...or just join your kids in the living room fort.
8: Dessert is a must! Author Joanne Bischof has a couple of recipes she'd like to share from her cookbooklet Heartfelt Recipes: A Cookbooklet Inspired by the Cadence of Grace Series that are sure to make anyone's heart pitter patter! Let's see what Joanne has cooking for us!!

Moonshine Pecan Pie

Joanne: One of my most popular recipes, this little crowd pleaser is a fun one for family gatherings and special events. The notorious not-so-secret ingredient adds a depth of flavor and a nod to one of the most iconic products of the Appalachian region. Of course, if you don’t have moonshine, or would prefer to leave it out, the pie is just as tasty without it! The butterscotch adds an extra layer of richness that will have your friends and family asking to take that last slice home.

5 tablespoons butter

1 cup light brown sugar, packed

3/4 cup light corn syrup

1/2 teaspoon salt

3 eggs

2 teaspoons vanilla

1 1/2 tablespoons moonshine

2 cups pecans

1/2 cup butterscotch chips

You will need one piecrust, either store bought or homemade. I have a tried-and-true recipe that I like to turn to, and I bet you do too! Use whatever piecrust you like best.

For the filling, heat the butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt in a saucepan until bubbling. Allow to bubble rapidly for about a minute, stirring gently. Turn off the heat, and set the mixture aside to cool slightly. Meanwhile, in a separate bowl, beat together the eggs, vanilla, and moonshine.

It will be important to temper the egg mixture now. Add a few tablespoons of the warm sauce to the egg mixture, and stir quickly. Repeat, adding a few tablespoons of the sauce, several times and mixing rapidly. Then pour the remaining egg mixture into the saucepan, and mix well. Gently stir in the pecans and butterscotch chips. Pour the pie filling into the prepared (uncooked) shell. If you’re feeling festive, you can use small cookie cutters to cut any leftover dough into pretty shapes to decorate the top. Gently place the pie in the oven and bake at 350 degrees F for about one hour. Allow to cool and set, and it’s ready to serve!

Sweet Pea Moonshine

Joanne: I have a firm belief that all things taste better when sipped from a Mason jar. There’s just something about it that says “home.” My family calls this Sweet Pea “Moonshine,” and this nonalcoholic drink is a great way to beat the summer heat. It has a hint of zing, and is a bit healthier than popping open a can of soda. With its notorious name, but innocent contents, it’s a fun drink for parties and family gatherings.

1 quart Mason jar

Ice

Sparkling water

Sweetened grapefruit juice

Vanilla extract

Fill a Mason jar half full of ice, and add equal parts sparkling water and grapefruit juice. (For the juice, I use store bought which is sweetened. If you use fresh juice, you may want to add a bit of sugar to taste.) Stir in a small splash of vanilla. There are different kinds of vanilla out there, both alcohol and glycerin based. I’ve used both for this recipe but tend to reach for the glycerin base variety as it’s a bit syrupy and lends a nice taste to the drink.

 Thank you Joanne for being so kind to share recipes from Heartfelt Recipes!

Note to the Military Spouse: If your spouse will miss this Valentine's Day with you, I just want to say, hang in there. I understand.  It's okay to cry and feel down in the dumps, but don't stay there. Find a way to share this holiday with friends, family, etc. Take a bubble bath after you get the kids in bed, pop popcorn, watch a movie that will make you laugh. Make this day as special as possible for your spouse too. Send those cheesy heart covered packages, because it matters to you and to your spouse.