Do You Have A Story To Tell?

New and Experienced Writers Invited to Participate In Contest

Following the lauded 2007 release of Quilting Patches of Life, Affirming Faith, a Christian organization based in Rochester Hills, Michigan, has announced its 2008 writing contest. This free contest, open to Christians of all denominations, invites beginning and experienced writers to offer personal stories for consideration in a new project. Winning entries will be included in a compilation book designed to uplift people in their faith walks.

Each entry should be 1,000-1,500 words and give a specific “life lesson” learned through a difficult circumstance, a high point in the writer’s life, or an everyday experience. Winning entries will receive a free copy of the completed work due out later this year and a certificate of award recognizing their achievement.

“We all have a story,” Affirming Faith founder Lori Wagner stated. “I can learn from your experiences and be encouraged, and I hope that I can encourage you with mine.”

Applications detailing submission guidelines and contest rules are available through the website at www.affirmingfaith.com, or can be mailed upon request by calling (248) 909-5735. All entries must be postmarked by July 31, 2008.

A new year . . . a new book!

I'm so excited! Yes, I say that in my blogs quite a bit, but that's because I don't usually post life's downers. I save the mulligrubs for my family . . . ha!

But seriously, after writing and re-writing the manuscript last year, then setting it aside for later evaluation and editing, Gateway of the Sun is now on the fast track to publication and should be available soon. Release date and ordering info will be posted as soon as it's available. Here's the annotation:

An unforgettable story
immersed in the culture and
conflict of the Inca Empire.

Gateway of the Sun is the compelling, coming-of-age tale of Huallpa, a 13-year-old Quechuan boy, who lives with his family outside the capitol of the Inca Empire. Following a smallpox epidemic’s tragic sweep through his village, Huallpa wakes from sickness to find himself head of his house and custodian of his 8-year-old sister. Emotionally unable to remain in their grief-filled village, Huallpa and Taruca decide to make a fresh start in the mystical city above the clouds, Machu Picchu .

For three days, brother and sister travel with their llamas up the Inca Trail through the mountains. Amidst breathtaking scenery and stunning architecture, adventures abound – including a run-in with a venomous pit viper. Meanwhile, bearded men in floating wooden houses approach from the coast, and small pox strikes again, this time targeting the reigning Inca. To gain protection from the gods, priests call for a special sacrifice. Who will be the chosen one?

Teacher recommended, Gateway of the Sun addresses harsh religious rituals and customs in a factual manner. The book reveals details of the culture of the South American natives and the toppling of their empire by Spanish conquistadors. Students and teachers alike will enjoy this book with its entertaining yet educational format. Complete with a glossary of Quechuan words, discussion questions, quotes from Pizarro’s secretary and authentic Inca poetry, Gateway of the Sun captures the interest and imaginations of readers of all ages.

Downriver Christian Womens Association - January Luncheon

What can I say . . . except, that was a GREAT luncheon. The ladies were so warm and welcoming, and the food was fantastic (all homemade).

Pictured with me at right is one of the board members of the association, Carole Fairall, who scheduled me to sing and speak at the monthly gathering in Trenton, Michigan. And that's the quilt my grandma made for me also pictured. Thankfully, after treacherous, snowy drives, we all arrived safely and enjoyed the time to share and fellowship.

The subject, Quilting Patches of Life, was well received. And ladies, if you're reading this, I have your prayer requests with me. God is able!

Happy New Year!

In the words of Edith Lovejoy Pierce, "We will open the book...called Opportunity and its first chapter is New Year's Day." And with that, I wish you a HAPPY NEW YEAR and may the book of your opportunities be filled with the wonderful provision and blessing of the Lord this year.

WATCHING: I've been privileged to be part of the Nightwatch prayer team who gather via conference call and "take back the night" with unified prayer across the nation. It's been awesome, and the Lord is truly showing Himself in new ways, meeting us in the nights of spiritual battle with fresh revelations of Himself.