50 States of Pray

It’s been a very difficult year for me and I’m afraid I had let myself become worn down and bitter. Even a little depressed.  This month that has changed.  I’ve had too many examples of how blessed I truly am.   

Things can be hard, hopes and dreams may not be fulfilled.  But it doesn’t matter.  I am so very blessed in the life I have, in my family, in my home.  I’m so grateful for this season that reminds me of what’s important in life, and how lucky I am. 

I hope each of you are having a wonderful and blessed year end.

Merry Christmas everyone!

Happy Holidays!

Hey everyone! I'm going dark so I can finish up my class and spend the holidays with my family.  I wish you all a very Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, Festive New Year, or whatever other good wishes I can send your way.  I'll see you in the new year!

Book List

I need suggestions, and I know I’m asking the right crowd. 

 My brother and his wife have asked me to put together a list of books for their children.  They have two boys and two girls ranging in age from about 6 to 14.  They are all voracious readers and my brother and his wife can’t keep up with them. My kids are so much younger I don’t have a lot of experience with this age group. 

I’ve started a list, thanks to the middle grade Mondays and other promotions that you all do, but, since I don’t know what they’ve already read I want to get as many books on the list as possible.  Can any of you suggest books for them?  I know Fablehaven and Harry Potter were big hits if that helps.   

It’s always wonderful to see kids who like to read and I want to help keep them in books. 

Thanks everyone!

Wrap Up

The end of the year is upon us and I’ve been evaluating my year.  A lot has happened, much of it unexpected.  Many of the things, in writing and in life, that I hoped and expected to happen this year didn’t. Life is always a surprise isn’t it?  I guess that keeps it interesting.   Still, I’m not disappointed.  I’ve moved forward. I’m in a different place than this time last year. I’ve learned and grown and survived.  And that, after all, is my ultimate goal. 

A while ago I found this over on the blog of Sarah Eden.

As long as I keep going, no failure is ever final.

That’s the truth. And that’s why I keep going. It’s why I keep living.  What happens may not be what I planned, but it will be a fun ride, and as long as I can keep trying again, I’ll never fail.

How was your year?  Did your expectations come to pass?