A Shift in Thinking

Not a day goes by that I don’t hear news anchors and commentators grumbling. I could turn off the television, and often do.  But the thoughts are there, lurking.  What if..?  If only…  Why, oh, why?  Some say worrying is a sign of intelligence.  God says it’s a lack of faith. What can I do …

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Sayings to Ponder

I’d love to know who said: Opportunity may knock once, but temptation bangs on the front door forever. Some minds are like concrete, thoroughly mixed up and permanently set. When you hit a wall, feel along it until you find a door. Never excuse in yourself what you accuse in others.  Don’t use a bazooka …

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Offensive Words

A report came out that the New York City Department of Education wants offensive words deleted from tests because they might make students uncomfortable.  Say what?  The fear is certain words might cause students to be distracted. Students might actually think about what the words mean, not just how to spell them.  The following is …

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Descriptive Writing

Her thoughts tumbled like sneakers in a dryer. Despite her college degree, she had a limited vocabulary, like, whatever, Dude. She hurled epitaphs at him as he went out the door.  She threw up her hands while he shoved his in his pockets trying to get ahold of himself.  He grew on her like a …

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Routine

Some people have asked what my normal day looks like.  Get up when I wake up, anywhere between 5 – 6:30 a.m.   Make the bed.  (Rick’s already been up for a couple of hours, reading in the living room.  Coffee is ready when I appear, bleary eyed.)   Read the One Year Bible.   Read …

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The Holy Spirit

I will spend my life learning about God, from His Word, from His creation, from teachers, and those who teach without even knowing it.  For me, writing is all about learning more about Him, what He wants from me personally, how I can live to please Him, and walking this life knowing there will be …

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Finding Inspiration

There are days when the creative juices just aren’t flowing.  I stare at the computer screen and wonder, “What now?  Where do I go from here?”  I just don’t know. The characters are having a hissy fit and not talking to me or each other.  I have an inkling of an idea, but can’t find …

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Working Wives

Hilary Rosen definitely stuck her foot in her mouth when she said Ann Romney isn’t qualified to discuss the economy because she “hasn’t worked a day in her life”.  Having stuck my foot in my mouth numerous times, I can imagine how Ms. Rosen feels.  In fact, there were years when I opened my mouth …

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Childhood Innocence

Someone wrote a letter to the editor about the innocence of a child.  In her view, every child is born perfect and innocent.  My first thought was she must not be a mother.  Before you misunderstand me, I love babies.  I’ve had three of my own.  I adore my five grandchildren.  But innocent?  There is …

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Sailing on High Seas

A couple of tall ships are visiting Bodega Bay.  I keep thinking about going out and standing on the dock to see them close up and maybe even get a tour. But then, I have work to do. Whenever I start a new novel, I feel like I’m treading water in the middle of the …

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