1const e=[{slug:"when-it-s-all-about-the-food-y-all",title:"When itâs all about the food, yâall",date:"2015-11-17",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"When Mom passed away in 2009, my sweet sister-in-law, Jackie, and I divided her cookbooks between us, and I even shared some with Momâs friends. Mom had a ton of cookbooks! Which was only fitting. June Gattis loved toâ¦",content:`<p>When Mom passed away in 2009, my sweet sister-in-law, Jackie, and I divided her cookbooks between us, and I even shared some with Mom’s friends. Mom had a ton of cookbooks! Which was only fitting. June Gattis <em>loved</em> to cook.</p> 2<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/MomandMeWedding.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-7675" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/MomandMeWedding-736x750.jpg?resize=500%2C509" alt="MomandMeWedding" width="500" height="509" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/MomandMeWedding.jpg?resize=736%2C750&ssl=1 736w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/MomandMeWedding.jpg?resize=245%2C250&ssl=1 245w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/MomandMeWedding.jpg?w=1000&
2ssl=1 1000w" sizes="(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" loading="lazy" /></a></p> 3<p style="text-align: center;">Me and mom on my wedding day<br /> 4December 15, 1984</p> 5<p>While I enjoy cooking, I <em>really</em> love to bake. That’s my passion.</p> 6<p>With Thanksgiving just around the corner, I’ve been flipping back through recipes, finalizing the menu, and have enjoyed running across recipes I’ve gathered from family and friends through the years. I especially treasure the ones written in that loved one’s own hand.</p> 7<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/MomsSourCreamPoundCake.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-7676" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/MomsSourCreamPoundCake-563x750.jpg?resize=500%2C667" alt="MomsSourCreamPoundCake" width="500" height="667" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/MomsSourCreamPoundCake.jpg?resize=563%2C750&ssl=1 563w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/MomsSourCreamPoundCake.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/MomsSourCreamPoundCake.jpg?w=1000&
7ssl=1 1000w" sizes="(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" loading="lazy" /></a></p> 8<p style="text-align: center;">Mom’s Sour Cream Pound Cake<br /> 9<em>De-li-cious!</em></p> 10<p>These handwritten recipes grow even more special once that person has passed from the Shadowlands and has been “swallowed up by life!”</p> 11<p>Don’t you love how II Corinthians 5:4 describes that transition: “While we live in these earthly bodies, we groan and sigh, but itâs not that we want to die and get rid of these bodies that clothe us. Rather, we want to put on our new bodies so that these dying bodies will be <strong>swallowed up by life.” </strong>What a way to phrase it. And don’t those who belong to Christ have so much to look forward to!)</p> 12<p><em>Oops</em>! I almost started preaching there for a minute! <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f642.png" alt="ð" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" loading="lazy" /> Now back to the food.</p> 13<p>Here are a few more of my family’s favorite recipes that I’ve made through the years. Some of which I’ll be making next week. And NOTE: These are actual pics of recipes I keep on my phone so I’ll have them handy when I’m at Publix and remember I needed to bring the recipe! So forgive the poor quality of some of them.</p> 14<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/ApplePieSueScott.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-7673" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/ApplePieSueScott-563x750.jpg?resize=563%2C750" alt="ApplePieSueScott" width="563" height="750" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/ApplePieSueScott.jpg?resize=563%2C750&ssl=1 563w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/ApplePieSueScott.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/ApplePieSueScott.jpg?w=1000&ssl=1 1000w" sizes="(max-width: 563px) 100vw, 563px" loading="lazy" /></a></p> 15<p style="text-align: center;">Sue Scott’s Apple Pie from Colorado days. So simple, <em>sooo</em> good!</p> 16<p> </p> 17<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/MarilynLewis1.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-7677" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/MarilynLewis1-750x563.jpg?resize=750%2C563" alt="MarilynLewis1" width="750" height="563" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/MarilynLewis1.jpg?resize=750%2C563&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/MarilynLewis1.jpg?resize=250%2C188&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/MarilynLewis1.jpg?w=1000&ssl=1 1000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" /></a></p> 18<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/MarilynLewis2.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-7678" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/MarilynLewis2-750x563.jpg?resize=750%2C563" alt="MarilynLewis2" width="750" height="563" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/MarilynLewis2.jpg?resize=750%2C563&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/MarilynLewis2.jpg?resize=250%2C188&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/MarilynLewis2.jpg?w=1000&ssl=1 1000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" /></a></p> 19<p style="text-align: center;">Marilyn Lewis’s Dallas Dip is the BEST!</p> 20<p style="text-align: center;"> 21<p style="text-align: center;">
21<a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/MarilynChocDessert1.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-7681" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/MarilynChocDessert1-750x563.jpg?resize=750%2C563" alt="MarilynChocDessert1" width="750" height="563" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/MarilynChocDessert1.jpg?resize=750%2C563&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/MarilynChocDessert1.jpg?resize=250%2C188&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/MarilynChocDessert1.jpg?w=1000&ssl=1 1000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" /></a></p> 22<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/MarilynChocDessert2.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-7680" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/MarilynChocDessert2-750x563.jpg?resize=750%2C563" alt="MarilynChocDessert2" width="750" height="563" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/MarilynChocDessert2.jpg?resize=750%2C563&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/MarilynChocDessert2.jpg?resize=250%2C188&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/MarilynChocDessert2.jpg?w=1000&ssl=1 1000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" /></a></p> 23<p style="text-align: center;">Marilyn is a fabulous cook, so she gets <em>two</em> entries! I’ve heard this dessert referred to by many names, but any way you slice it, it’s fabulous!</p> 24<p> </p> 25<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/whitewinechicken.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-7682" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/whitewinechicken-750x533.jpg?resize=750%2C533" alt="whitewinechicken" width="750" height="533" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/whitewinechicken.jpg?resize=750%2C533&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/whitewinechicken.jpg?resize=250%2C178&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/whitewinechicken.jpg?w=1000&ssl=1 1000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" /></a></p> 26<p style="text-align: center;">Mom’s scrumptious White Wine Chickenâor “Creamy Baked Chicken” since this recipe was included in a church cookbook! : )<br /> 27I love Mom’s note just beneath the title. And she was/is still right. Her White Wine Chicken is still a company “go to” for me.<br /> 28Do you have those kind of main dishes you reach for?</p> 29<p>And lastly…</p> 30<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/KelseyChocCake.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-7672" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/KelseyChocCake-563x750.jpg?resize=500%2C667" alt="KelseyChocCake" width="500" height="667" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/KelseyChocCake.jpg?resize=563%2C750&ssl=1 563w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/KelseyChocCake.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/KelseyChocCake.jpg?w=1000&
30ssl=1 1000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></a></p> 31<p style="text-align: center;">Kelsey in Abilene, Texas years ago, sneaking into the kitchen and getting her little paws into a chocolate cake I was supposed to take somewhere. Little urchin!</p> 32<h4><span style="color: #0000ff;">Do you have treasured recipes you’ve kept and made through the years? What are some of your “family favorite” recipes? Please share! And if you’re game, share the recipe with us, too. And <em>please</em> tell me someone else keeps pics of recipes on their cell phone!</span></h4> 33<p>Blessings on your Tuesday, friends,</p> 34<p>Tammy</p> 35<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>** JACK CAM **</strong></p> 36<p style="text-align: center;">My buddy, Dana Corkern, walked down to see me yesterday, and Jack was keeping watch for herâ¦in very relaxed fashion.</p> 37<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/FullSizeRender.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-7679" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/FullSizeRender.jpg?resize=494%2C640" alt="FullSizeRender" width="494" height="640" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/FullSizeRender.jpg?w=494&ssl=1 494w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/FullSizeRender.jpg?resize=193%2C250&ssl=1 193w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 494px) 100vw, 494px" /></a></p> 38`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/MomandMeWedding-736x750.jpg?resize=500%2C509",tags:["Family","Recipes"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/when-its-all-about-the-food-yall/"},{slug:"a-more-grateful-heart",title:"A more grateful heart",date:"2015-11-03",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"Perhaps itâs the time of year with the holidays almost upon us (can you even believe it!), but lately Iâve been far more aware of how incredibly blessed I am. Iâm currently in BSF (Bible Study Fellowship) and weâreâ¦",content:`<p style="text-align: left;">Perhaps it’s the time of year with the holidays almost upon us (can you even believe it!), but lately I’ve been far more aware of how incredibly blessed I am.</p> 39<p style="text-align: left;">I’m currently in BSF (Bible Study Fellowship) and we’re studying the book of Revelation, and each week I find my gratitude for God’s Word deepening, same as my thirst for it.</p> 40<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/IMG_7859.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-7538" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/IMG_7859-423x750.jpg?resize=250%2C444" alt="IMG_7859" width="250" height="444" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/IMG_7859.jpg?resize=423%2C750&ssl=1 423w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/IMG_7859.jpg?resize=141%2C250&ssl=1 141w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/IMG_7859.jpg?w=640&ssl=1 640w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 250px) 100vw, 250px" /></a></p> 41<p style="text-align: center;">I love the <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/shereadstruth/phone-lock-screens/" target="_blank">screen savers available at SheReadsTruth.com</a>.<br /> 42In addition to using them on my phone, I print them out and stick them around the house as reminders of His Truth. Are you familiar with She Reads Truth?</p> 43<p style="text-align: left;">Yes, I love drinking Diet Pepsi and iced tea from wine glasses, as you know. But I especially love these wine glasses because they were a gift from author and friend Judy Miller.</p> 44<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/IMG_7889.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-7540 aligncenter" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/w
44p-content/uploads/2015/11/IMG_7889-e1446528657873-563x750.jpg?resize=300%2C400" alt="IMG_7889" width="300" height="400" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/IMG_7889-e1446528657873.jpg?resize=563%2C750&ssl=1 563w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/IMG_7889-e1446528657873.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/IMG_7889-e1446528657873.jpg?w=1512&ssl=1 1512w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a></p> 45<p style="text-align: center;">So every time I drink from them, I think of snarky Miss Judy and the sweet friendship we share.</p> 46<p>I’m grateful for Jackâand was reminded last week about how much I love this little guy. First, when I took him to the vet. And second, when he got stung by a wasp while we were walking. <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f641.png" alt="ð" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" loading="lazy" /></p> 47<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/IMG_7780-e1446528894411.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-7543" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/IMG_7780-e1446528894411-563x750.jpg?resize=300%2C400" alt="IMG_7780" width="300" height="400" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/IMG_7780-e1446528894411.jpg?resize=563%2C750&ssl=1 563w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/IMG_7780-e1446528894411.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/IMG_7780-e1446528894411.jpg?w=1224&ssl=1 1224w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a></p> 48<p style="text-align: left;">I took him to the vet so that Dr. Wood (SO appreciate you, Dr. Wood!) could check his leg (that she operated on last December), and I got good newsâ¦and bad news. Good newsâJack’s leg is doing great. Bad newsâhe has a condition known as “tracheal collapse.” A condition in which the cartilage in the trachea begins to fail, leading to breathing problems. While there’s no cure, there are optionsâso grateful!âand I’m headed back to the vet today to explore those more fully.</p> 49<p style="text-align: left;">I’ve also been blessed so much by reader friends…</p> 50<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/IMG_77591.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-7546 aligncenter" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/IMG_77591.jpg?resize=450%2C358" alt="IMG_7759" width="450" height="358" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/IMG_77591.jpg?w=600&ssl=1 600w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/IMG_77591.jpg?resize=250%2C199&
50ssl=1 250w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px" /></a></p> 51<p style="text-align: center;">One of them (waving to you, Teresa!) sent me this gorgeous antique looking handkerchief, and I told her it’s so pretty it needs to go into a book! (So watch for that addition in a book soon.)</p> 52<p style="text-align: left;">I walked into a grocery store the other day andâin a very unexpected momentâwas overwhelmed with the abundance of food available to me. It’s everywhere. Meat, fruit, cereal, cheese, bread. Right there at my fingertips. Stocked on shelf after shelf, clean, neat. I don’t have to raise it, grow it, kill it, or knead it. (Although I <em>do</em> love kneading dough!) Have you ever had a moment like this when entering a Kroger or Publix, or your neighborhood store?</p> 53<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/IMG_7787-e1446528855593.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-7542 aligncenter" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/IMG_7787-e1446528855593-563x750.jpg?resize=350%2C467" alt="IMG_7787" width="350" height="467" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/IMG_7787-e1446528855593.jpg?resize=563%2C750&ssl=1 563w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/IMG_7787-e1446528855593.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/IMG_7787-e1446528855593.jpg?w=1224&ssl=1 1224w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 350px) 100vw, 350px" /></a></p> 54<p style="text-align: center;">I happened upon this luscious treat that same day.<br /> 55Have you tried it yet? I love yogurt and am grateful for the plentitude of healthy choices available to me. Now to choose them more consistently!</p> 56<p style="text-align: left;">Lastly, I’m so grateful for my writing critique partner, Deb Raney, whoâand I mean thisâI would NOT want to write a book without. Deb, thanks, friend, for making my stories so much better than they would be on my own (including the one you’re reading now).</p> 57<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/DebTamPolkaDotSM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-7537 aligncenter" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/DebTamPolkaDotSM.png?resize=450%2C304" alt="DebTamPolkaDotSM" width="450" height="304" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/DebTamPolkaDotSM.png?w=450&ssl=1 450w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/DebTamPolkaDotSM.png?resize=250%2C169&
57ssl=1 250w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px" /></a></p> 58<p style="text-align: center;">Deb, you rock! Even though you <em>are</em> a cat lover.</p> 59<p style="text-align: left;">Lastly, I’m grateful for YOU and the community we share here at <em>Inspired By Life and Fiction </em>and am celebrating by giving away Deb’s newest book, <em>Another Way Home.</em> Fabulous story! If you love(d) Parenthood, you will adore this book (and series)! Family drama, infertility, and adoption are woven together masterfully by Ms. Raney in <em>Another Way Home.</em></p> 60<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/IMG_7892-e1446530189492.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-7545" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/IMG_7892-e1446530189492.jpg?resize=250%2C333" alt="IMG_7892" width="250" height="333" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/IMG_7892-e1446530189492.jpg?w=480&ssl=1 480w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/IMG_7892-e1446530189492.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 250px) 100vw, 250px" /></a></p> 61<p style="text-align: center;"><em>“Another hard-to-put-down family drama from Deborah Raney.” </em><br /> 62~ RT Book Reviews</p> 63<p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="color: #ff0000;">ENTER TO WIN…</span></strong><br /> 64<strong><span style="color: #ff0000;">Simply leave a comment on </span><em style="color: #ff0000;">this</em><span style="color: #ff0000;"> post</span><span style="color: #0000ff;"> TODAY by 10PM Central</span><span style="color: #ff0000;"> sharing at least one thing you’re grateful for (U.S. Mailing addresses only, please).  And if you have a prayer request, please leave that too. Because we’re here for each other. And aren’t we grateful?</span></strong></p> 65<p style="text-align: left;">Blessings on your Tuesday,</p> 66<p style="text-align: left;">Tammy</p> 67<h3 style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #0000ff;">CONGRATS to NANCY GRIGGS!! who won Deb’s book in the drawing! </span></strong><br /> 68<a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Screen-Shot-2015-11-06-at-10.52.19-AM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-7572" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Screen-Shot-2015-11-06-at-10.52.19-AM-750x233.png?resize=750%2C233" alt="Screen Shot 2015-11-06 at 10.52.19 AM" width="750" height="233" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Screen-Shot-2015-11-06-at-10.52.19-AM.png?resize=750%2C233&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Screen-Shot-2015-11-06-at-10.52.19-AM.png?resize=250%2C78&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Screen-Shot-2015-11-06-at-10.52.19-AM.png?w=844&ssl=1 844w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" /></a></h3> 69<p style="text-align: center;">Nancy, send me your snail mail address (<a href="http://www.tameraalexander.com/contact.html" target="_blank">send me an email</a>), and I’ll get your book in the mail to you!</p> 70`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/IMG_7859-423x750.jpg?resize=250%2C444",tags:["Assorted & Sundry"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/amoregratefulheart/"},{slug:"guess-the-movie-from-the-dialogue",title:"Guess the movie from the dialogue",date:"2015-10-20",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"Are you a movie lover like me? I love, love playing trivia games. So⦠Iâm going to list some quotes from movies, and letâs see if you can guess them. The answers are below, but donât peek! Keep track of how many you getâ¦",content:`<div id="attachment_7366" style="width: 285px" class="wp-caption alignright">
70<a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Screen-Shot-2015-10-19-at-11.15.33-PM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-7366" class="wp-image-7366" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Screen-Shot-2015-10-19-at-11.15.33-PM-750x678.png?resize=275%2C249" alt="Screen Shot 2015-10-19 at 11.15.33 PM" width="275" height="249" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Screen-Shot-2015-10-19-at-11.15.33-PM.png?resize=750%2C678&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Screen-Shot-2015-10-19-at-11.15.33-PM.png?resize=250%2C226&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Screen-Shot-2015-10-19-at-11.15.33-PM.png?w=1064&ssl=1 1064w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 275px) 100vw, 275px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-7366" class="wp-caption-text">Are you a movie lover like me?</p></div> 71<p>I love, love playing trivia games. So…</p> 72<p>I’m going to list some quotes from movies, and let’s see if you can guess them. The answers are below, but don’t peek!</p> 73<p>Keep track of how many you get right and then let me know in the comments!</p> 74<p>Ready?</p> 75<p>Here goes:</p> 76<p><span style="color: #0000ff;">Movie #1:</span><br /> 77âSo itâs not gonna be easy. Itâs gonna be really hard. Weâre gonna have to work at this every day, but I want to do that because I want you. I want all of you, for ever, you and me, every day.â</p> 78<p><span style="color: #0000ff;">Movie #2:</span><br /> 79âI love you. Youâre my only reason to stay alive⦠if thatâs what I am.â</p> 80<p><span style="color: #0000ff;">Movie #3:</span><br /> 81âListen to me, mister. Youâre my knight in shining armor. Donât you forget it.â</p> 82<p><span style="color: #0000ff;">Movie #4:</span><br /> 83âDonât forget Iâm just a girl, standing in front of a boy, asking him to love her.â</p> 84<div id="attachment_7367" style="width: 260px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Screen-Shot-2015-10-19-at-11.16.08-PM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-7367" class="wp-image-7367" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Screen-Shot-2015-10-19-at-11.16.08-PM.png?resize=250%2C248" alt="Screen Shot 2015-10-19 at 11.16.08 PM" width="250" height="248" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Screen-Shot-2015-10-19-at-11.16.08-PM.png?w=514&ssl=1 514w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Screen-Shot-2015-10-19-at-11.16.08-PM.png?resize=150%2C150&ssl=1 150w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Screen-Shot-2015-10-19-at-11.16.08-PM.png?resize=250%2C248&ssl=1 250w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 250px) 100vw, 250px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-7367" class="wp-caption-text">I admit it… Watching movies is one of my favorite ‘treats’ after long stints of writing.</p></div> 85<p><span style="color: #0000ff;">Movie #5:</span><br /> 86âNo, I donât think I will kiss you, although you need kissing, badly. Thatâs whatâs wrong with you. You should be kissed and often, and by someone who knows how.â</p> 87<p><span style="color: #0000ff;">Movie #6:</span><br /> 88âAs you wish.â</p> 89<p><span style="color: #0000ff;">Movie #7:</span><br /> 90“I came here tonight because when you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible.â</p> 91<p><span style="color: #0000ff;">Movie #8:</span><br /> 92âMy heart is, and always will be, yours.â</p> 93<p>So, how’d you do?</p> 94<p>What makes a quote so memorable, do you think? Or a piece of narrativeâ”For who could ever learn to love…a beast”âso vivid in our memory?</p> 95<p>When I read a novel, I tend to underline sections much like a textbook. Because I want to be able to go back to those scenes and experience those emotions again. It’s the same reason we watch a movie we’ve already seen over and over again.</p> 96<p><span style="color: #0000ff;"><strong>What movie or novel do you find “quotable?” Perhaps it’s a scene you remember or a section of dialogue from the book.</strong></span></p> 97<p>A novel quote for me is from <em>A Voice in the Wind</em> by Francine Rivers:</p> 98<p>âRather than remain a sealed jar, she sought only to pour herself out to others. Everything she did mirrored her faith. It was as though every waking hour of the day she was devoted to pleasing her God by serving others. This God that she worshiped consumed her. It didn’t ask for a brief visit to a temple, or a small votive offering of food or coin, or a few prayers every now and then. This God wanted all of her.â</p> 99<p><strong><span style="color: #0000ff;">Now it’
99s your turn to share. Can’t wait to see how many of the movie quotes you knew!</span></strong></p> 100<p>Blessings on your Tuesday,<br /> 101Tamera</p> 102<h5>ANSWERS to movie quotes:</h5> 103<h6>#1 The Notebook (This is a love/hate movie for me <g>)<br /> 104#2 Twilight (Yes, I read the books and watched the movies. Sue me.)<br /> 105#3 On Golden Pond (Such a great movie. #Henry&HepburnRockedIt)<br /> 106#4 Notting Hill (Love the final scene on the park bench, and the song that’s playing. <em>Sigh</em>…)<br /> 107#5 Gone With the Wind (Don’t particularly like this movie? Frankly, my dear⦠Well, you know.)<br /> 108#6 The Princess Bride (Such. A. Fabulous. Movie.)<br /> 109#7 When Harry Met Sally (So many quotable lines from this flick. The main one? “I’ll have what she’s having.” LOL. <em>So good</em>!)<br /> 110#8 Sense and Sensibility (You knew I’d put this movie on the list, right? I’ve watched this countless times; Kelsey and I can practically quote the whole script)</h6> 111`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Screen-Shot-2015-10-19-at-11.15.33-PM-750x678.png?resize=275%2C249",tags:["Assorted & Sundry"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/guess-the-movie-from-the-dialogue/"},{slug:"recent-favs-what-are-yours",title:"Recent favs⦠What are yours?",date:"2015-10-06",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"What are some of your recent âfavorite things?â Here are a few of mine. Do we have any in common? Anyone recognize the name on the side of this old crate? If you do, then youâre likely a fan of Fixer Upper with Chip &â¦",content:`<p>What are some of your recent “favorite things?”</p> 112<p>Here are a few of mine. Do we have any in common?</p> 113<p> </p> 114<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/IMG_7608.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-7196" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/IMG_7608-750x716.jpg?resize=500%2C478" alt="IMG_7608" width="500" height="478" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/IMG_7608.jpg?resize=750%2C716&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/IMG_7608.jpg?resize=250%2C239&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/IMG_7608.jpg?w=1656&
114ssl=1 1656w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></a></p> 115<p style="text-align: center;">Anyone recognize the name on the side of this old crate?</p> 116<p>If you do, then you’re likely a fan of Fixer Upper with Chip & Joanna Gaines. I LOVE THIS SHOW! My daughter got me started, and I’m hooked.</p> 117<p>For those of you who watch Fixer Upper, what’s your favorite thing about the show? For me, I’m flat enamored with how Joanna can just see things as they can be. My creative bent only goes so far, and I have a hard time visualizing decor and renovations. Plus I just love that woman’s style and how she decorates. I saw this old crate and before I knew it, it was coming to live at my house. <a href="http://www.hgtv.com/shows/fixer-upper" target="_blank">Check out some cute bloopers with  Joanna and her husband, Chip.</a></p> 118<p><strong><span style="color: #0000ff;">Next recent favorite thingâ¦</span></strong></p> 119<p>This sunset on a recent walk with Jack. So gorgeous.</p> 120<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/IMG_7633.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-7197" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/IMG_7633-750x464.jpg?resize=500%2C309" alt="IMG_7633" width="500" height="309" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/IMG_7633.jpg?resize=750%2C464&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/IMG_7633.jpg?resize=250%2C155&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/IMG_7633.jpg?w=1944&
120ssl=1 1944w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></a></p> 121<p>And to think, the Creator of the Universe, the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End, the Great I AM who painted this dusky sky is the same Most Holy One who loves you and me endlessly and who wants his best for our lives. Not just “the” best. But <em>his</em> best. That’s like the best of the best on steroids!</p> 122<p><strong><span style="color: #0000ff;">Next recent favorite thingâ¦</span></strong></p> 123<p>Anything from Chick-fil-A! But especially their kids meal with the ice dream cones. Be still my beating heartâ¦</p> 124<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/IMG_7637.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-7199" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/IMG_7637-563x750.jpg?resize=450%2C600" alt="IMG_7637" width="450" height="600" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/w
124p-content/uploads/2015/10/IMG_7637.jpg?resize=563%2C750&ssl=1 563w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/IMG_7637.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/IMG_7637.jpg?w=1440&ssl=1 1440w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px" /></a></p> 125<p style="text-align: center;">Thanks to the sweet friend (you know who you are!) who gave me this. I’ve got $1.46 left and am relatively certain it’s going to be spent on a kid’s cone….tomorrow!</p> 126<p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="color: #0000ff;">Next recent favorite thingâ¦</span></strong></p> 127<p style="text-align: left;">A sign I picked up at <a href="http://www.antiquesatthefactoryfranklintn.com" target="_blank">Antiques at the Factory in Franklin</a>. LOVE Antiques at the Factory, and love the meaning behind this sign.</p> 128<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/IMG_7550.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-7200" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/IMG_7550-563x750.jpg?resize=450%2C600" alt="IMG_7550" width="450" height="600" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/IMG_7550.jpg?resize=563%2C750&ssl=1 563w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/IMG_7550.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/IMG_7550.jpg?w=1008&
128ssl=1 1008w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px" /></a></p> 129<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/tamera.alexander/photos/a.165308380222600.43565.142700165816755/913162552103842/?type=3&theater" target="_blank">Read more about this sign and how it’s encouraging me in my BSF study of Revelation this year</a></p> 130<p>Lastly, a <span style="color: #0000ff;"><strong>giveaway</strong></span> with books and a CD from some of your favorite authorsâ¦</p> 131<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/FullSizeRender-1.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-7198" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/FullSizeRender-1-750x458.jpg?resize=500%2C305" alt="FullSizeRender-1" width="500" height="305" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/FullSizeRender-1.jpg?resize=750%2C458&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/FullSizeRender-1.jpg?resize=250%2C153&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/FullSizeRender-1.jpg?w=1520&
131ssl=1 1520w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></a></p> 132<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #0000ff;">Plus I’ll throw in a copy of <em><a href="http://www.tameraalexander.com/upcomingreleases.html" target="_blank">To Win Her Favor</a></em> OR <a href="http://www.tameraalexander.com/upcomingreleases.html" target="_blank"><em>Among the Fair Magnolias</em> </a>too! Winner’s choice!</span></strong></p> 133<p><strong><span style="color: #ff0000;">How do you enter to win? </span></strong></p> 134<p><strong>Simply leave a comment on this post TODAY, Tuesday, October 6th, before 9PM Centralâ</strong> (<em>can you believe it’s already October!! where has the year gone, friends!</em>) and tell me a recent fav of yours, can be anythingâ¦favorite picture, decorative home item, song, novel, perfume, TV show, candy, pie, cake, cookie, turnover, cobbler, cupcake, ice-cream, dishtowel, exercise or whatever (figured we might need some exercise after all that food)â<strong>and you’re entered to win these five books and CD. </strong>U.S. Mailing addresses only please.</p> 135<p><strong><span style="color: #0000ff;">Now let me hear from you about <em>your</em> recent favorite thing!</span></strong></p> 136<p>Much love,</p> 137<p>Tamera</p> 138<p> </p> 139<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #ff0000;"><strong>AND THE WINNER IS . . . </strong></span></p> 140<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #ff0000;">LUCY REYNOLDS<br /> 141(who’s so creative!)<br /> 142</span></p> 143<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Screen-Shot-2015-10-19-at-10.21.52-PM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-7362" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Screen-Shot-2015-10-19-at-10.21.52-PM-750x404.png?resize=750%2C404" alt="Screen Shot 2015-10-19 at 10.21.52 PM" width="750" height="404" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Screen-Shot-2015-10-19-at-10.21.52-PM.png?resize=750%2C404&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Screen-Shot-2015-10-19-at-10.21.52-PM.png?resize=250%2C135&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Screen-Shot-2015-10-19-at-10.21.52-PM.png?w=1200&ssl=1 1200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" /></a></p> 144<p><em>Lucy, write me <a href="http://www.tameraalexander.com/contact.html" target="_blank">HERE</a> and send your snail mail address so we can get your books in the mail!</em></p> 145<p> </p> 146`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/IMG_7608-750x716.jpg?resize=500%2C478",tags:["Assorted & Sundry"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/recent-favs-what-are-yours/"},{slug:"everything-old-is-new-again",title:"Everything old is new again",date:"2015-09-15",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"Iâve been looking for an old farm table that I could use for a desk in my office, and I finally found one! Only, it didnât look like the picture below when we got it. I thought Iâd taken a before picture but, for theâ¦",content:`<p>I’ve been looking for an old farm table that I could use for a desk in my office, and I finally found one!</p> 147<p>Only, it didn’t look like the picture below when we got it. I thought I’d taken a before picture but, for the life of me, I can’t find it. So just use your imagination, okay?</p> 148<p>The top of the farm table was dry and cracked in places and had obviously been used as a cutting board somewhere along the way. The wood was gray and rough and hadn’t been conditioned in years.</p> 149<p>Got that mental image?</p> 150<p>You sure?</p> 151<p><em>Good</em>.</p> 152<p>Then my husband got a hold of said table and sanded down the top, smoothing the rough spots and taking off the old finish that still clung to the wood in places. Then we refinished it and voila!</p> 153<p>
153<a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/IMG_7505.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-6967 size-large aligncenter" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/IMG_7505-e1442317972820-563x750.jpg?resize=563%2C750" alt="IMG_7505" width="563" height="750" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/IMG_7505-e1442317972820.jpg?resize=563%2C750&ssl=1 563w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/IMG_7505-e1442317972820.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/IMG_7505-e1442317972820.jpg?w=2000&ssl=1 2000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 563px) 100vw, 563px" /></a></p> 154<p style="text-align: center;">Isn’t it pretty?</p> 155<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/IMG_7506.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-6968 size-large" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/IMG_7506-e1442318029312-563x750.jpg?resize=563%2C750" alt="IMG_7506" width="563" height="750" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/IMG_7506-e1442318029312.jpg?resize=563%2C750&ssl=1 563w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/IMG_7506-e1442318029312.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/IMG_7506-e1442318029312.jpg?w=2000&ssl=1 2000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 563px) 100vw, 563px" /></a></p> 156<p style="text-align: center;">The drawers aren’t in yet in this picture (I was still cleaning them).</p> 157<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/IMG_7507.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-6969 size-large" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/IMG_7507-e1442318106688-563x750.jpg?resize=563%2C750" alt="IMG_7507" width="563" height="750" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/IMG_7507-e1442318106688.jpg?resize=563%2C750&ssl=1 563w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/IMG_7507-e1442318106688.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/IMG_7507-e1442318106688.jpg?w=2000&ssl=1 2000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 563px) 100vw, 563px" /></a>I love the legs, too. Gives the table a little <em>umph</em> in the style department!</p> 158<p style="text-align: left;">I’ll share another picture once I’ve got my office organized and up and running again, which will be a few days. I’m writing pretty much 24/7 (when I’m not refinishing tables) on the third Belmont Mansion book. Adelicia Acklen, the mistress of Belmont Mansion in the 1800s, had three special “loves” in her life: art, nature, and music.</p> 159<p style="text-align: left;">In <em>A Lasting Impression</em>, we explore her love of art. In <em>A Beauty So Rare</em>, we delve into her love affair with nature. And in <em>“Title Yet To Be Confirmed,</em>” we learn all about her adoration of music. I’m loving the characters in this story and the journey they’re taking, and hope you will too.</p> 160<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/AdeliciaIssacALIABSR.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-6972" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/AdeliciaIssacALIABSR-750x578.png?resize=500%2C385" alt="AdeliciaIssacALIABSR" width="500" height="385" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/AdeliciaIssacALIABSR.png?resize=750%2C578&
160ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/AdeliciaIssacALIABSR.png?resize=250%2C193&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/AdeliciaIssacALIABSR.png?w=1186&ssl=1 1186w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></a></p> 161<p style="text-align: left;">In refinishing this old farm table, I couldn’t help but think about what Christ has accomplished for us through his death, burial, and resurrection. How he’s given us new life, fresh hope, and a transformed eternal perspective.</p> 162<p style="text-align: center;">“This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life has gone, a new life has begun!” (2 Corinthians 5:17)</p> 163<p style="text-align: left;">I don’t know about you, but I cherish fresh starts in life. I stumble and fall so often in my faith. So it’s an especially sweet reminder to know that Christ in us means <em>regenerated</em> life! There’s nothing he can’t make new either. He’s the Master Restorer. And aren’t we grateful!</p> 164<p style="text-align: left;">So, all you DIYers out there…</p> 165<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff;"><strong>Have you ever saved an older piece of furniture and given it new life? Please share! I’d love to hear your story.</strong></span></p> 166<p style="text-align: left;">Blessings on your day, friends,</p> 167<p style="text-align: left;">Tammy</p> 168<p style="text-align: center;">Something Joe shared with me earlier this week. Love it!<br /> 169Granted, we love sarcasm in our family, so…</p> 170<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/IMG_1098.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-6973" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/IMG_1098-250x250.jpg?resize=250%2C250" alt="IMG_1098" width="250" height="250" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/IMG_1098.jpg?resize=250%2C250&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/IMG_1098.jpg?resize=150%2C150&ssl=1 150w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/IMG_1098.jpg?resize=747%2C750&ssl=1 747w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/IMG_1098.jpg?resize=350%2C350&ssl=1 350w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/IMG_1098.jpg?w=750&ssl=1 750w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 250px) 100vw, 250px" /></a></p> 171`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/IMG_7505-e1442317972820-563x750.jpg?resize=563%2C750",tags:["Assorted & Sundry"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/everything-old-is-new-again/"},{slug:"southern-fried-things-i-collect",title:"âSouthern Friedâ things I collect",date:"2015-09-01",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"I collect kitchen towels. I donât remember when it started really, only that I began picking them up here and thereâand now I canât stop. I think it started because I realized I had way too much stuff sitting on tablesâ¦",content:`<p>I collect kitchen towels. I don’t remember when it started really, only that I began picking them up here and thereâand now I can’t stop.</p> 172<p>I think it started because I realized I had way too much <em>stuff</em> sitting on tables and shelves, so when I went somewhere I didn’t want to bring home something else “pretty” that would just take up space. I wanted something practical.</p> 173<p>So…kitchen towels.</p> 174<p>They’re nothing if not practical, and they’re handy. They don’t last forever so it’s an item with a built-in life cycle. Plus every time I use a towel I remember that specific trip, who I was with, what we did, etc… They’re nice memory keepers.</p> 175<p>Here’s one from a trip to Paris a couple of years ago…</p> 176<p>
176<a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7370.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-6840" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7370-750x563.jpg?resize=750%2C563" alt="IMG_7370" width="750" height="563" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7370.jpg?resize=750%2C563&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7370.jpg?resize=250%2C188&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7370.jpg?w=1656&ssl=1 1656w" sizes="(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" loading="lazy" /></a></p> 177<p> </p> 178<p>Here’s another from a Saturday morning when Kels and I took a cooking class centered around food from the novel (and movie) <em>The Help</em>…</p> 179<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7366.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-6836" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7366-563x750.jpg?resize=563%2C750" alt="IMG_7366" width="563" height="750" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7366.jpg?resize=563%2C750&ssl=1 563w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7366.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7366.jpg?w=864&ssl=1 864w" sizes="(max-width: 563px) 100vw, 563px" loading="lazy" /></a></p> 180<p> </p> 181<p>Here are a few others I grabbed a while back at Belle Meade Plantation here in Nashville (setting of my Belle Meade Plantation novels)…</p> 182<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7369.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-6839" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7369-563x750.jpg?resize=563%2C750" alt="IMG_7369" width="563" height="750" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7369.jpg?resize=563%2C750&ssl=1 563w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7369.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7369.jpg?w=1152&ssl=1 1152w" sizes="(max-width: 563px) 100vw, 563px" loading="lazy" /></a></p> 183<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7368.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-6838" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7368-563x750.jpg?resize=563%2C750" alt="IMG_7368" width="563" height="750" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7368.jpg?resize=563%2C750&ssl=1 563w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7368.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7368.jpg?w=1080&ssl=1 1080w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 563px) 100vw, 563px" /></a></p> 184<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7367.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-6837" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7367-563x750.jpg?resize=563%2C750" alt="IMG_7367" width="563" height="750" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7367.jpg?resize=563%2C750&ssl=1 563w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7367.jpg?resize=188%2C250&
184ssl=1 188w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7367.jpg?w=1080&ssl=1 1080w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 563px) 100vw, 563px" /></a><em>These have been well used, can you tell? </em></p> 185<p>And finallyâ¦</p> 186<p>Last Friday Kelsey (my daughter) and I made a quick trip to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BellaVintageMarketplace" target="_blank">Bella Vintage Marketplace in Franklin</a> to check out all the booths. It was such fun (always is, hanging with Kels), and I <em>loved</em> this one particular booth that hadâyou guessed itâbeautiful Southern inspired kitchen towels.</p> 187<p>I wanted five of them but decided on <em>one</em>. I need to keep this fetish under control, after all. And this is the one I chose…</p> 188<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7365.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-6835" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7365-563x750.jpg?resize=563%2C750" alt="IMG_7365" width="563" height="750" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7365.jpg?resize=563%2C750&ssl=1 563w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7365.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7365.jpg?w=1080&ssl=1 1080w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 563px) 100vw, 563px" /></a></p> 189<p style="text-align: center;"><em>Isn’t he cute! </em></p> 190<p style="text-align: center;">The booth was <a href="http://www.southernfrieddesign.com" target="_blank">Southern Fried Design Barn</a> (waving to you, Amy), and oh…what fabulous stuff she has! Everything from kitchen towels to gift cards to notepads to prints to napkins. All so prettyâ¦and practical. Great for gift giving too.<a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Screen-Shot-2015-08-31-at-11.15.59-PM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-6845" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Screen-Shot-2015-08-31-at-11.15.59-PM.png?resize=720%2C508" alt="Screen Shot 2015-08-31 at 11.15.59 PM" width="720" height="508" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Screen-Shot-2015-08-31-at-11.15.59-PM.png?w=720&ssl=1 720w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Screen-Shot-2015-08-31-at-11.15.59-PM.png?resize=250%2C176&ssl=1 250w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px" /></a><a href="http://www.southernfrieddesign.com" target="_blank">Check out Southern Fried Design Barn website</a></p> 191<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://shop.southernfrieddesign.com/kitchen-towels/" target="_blank">And the kitchen towels</a></p> 192<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #119fc2;"><strong>What’s something <em>you</em> collect? It can be practical…or not! : )</strong></span></h3> 193<p style="text-align: left;">Can’t wait to hear from you!</p> 194<p style="text-align: left;">Tamera</p> 195<p style="text-align: center;">In case you want to order something from <a href="http://shop.southernfrieddesign.com" target="_blank">Southern Fried Design Barn</a>,<br /> 196here’s a code for 10% off. <em>And be sure and tell Amy that Tamera sent you!</em></p> 197<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7377.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-6844" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7377-563x750.jpg?resize=563%2C750" alt="IMG_7377" width="563" height="750" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7377.jpg?resize=563%2C750&
197ssl=1 563w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7377.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7377.jpg?w=1080&ssl=1 1080w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 563px) 100vw, 563px" /></a></p> 198`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7370-750x563.jpg?resize=750%2C563",tags:["Assorted & Sundry","House and home"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/southern-fried-things-i-collect/"},{slug:"the-creative-process",title:"The Creative Process",date:"2015-08-18",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"My family got this plaque for me recently, and I couldnât help but laugh when I read the last stage in the process. âDo all the work while crying.â Oh so funnyâeven if a tad bit true. Writing a novel is a dauntingâ¦",content:`<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/CreativeProcess-copy.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-6585" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/CreativeProcess-copy-750x282.jpg?resize=598%2C225" alt="CreativeProcess copy" width="598" height="225" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/CreativeProcess-copy.jpg?resize=750%2C282&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/CreativeProcess-copy.jpg?resize=250%2C94&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/CreativeProcess-copy.jpg?w=1440&ssl=1 1440w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 598px) 100vw, 598px" /></a></p> 199<p> </p> 200<p>My family got this plaque for me recently, and I couldn’t help but laugh when I read the last stage in the process. “Do all the work while crying.”</p> 201<p>Oh so funnyâeven if a tad bit true.</p> 202<p>Writing a novel is a daunting process. I’m currently working on my thirteenth book and the process has only gotten harder with each project. Which doesn’t make sense because you’d think that once you’ve done something so many times, the “assembly” might get easier. I mean, I’ve made my mother’s Coconut Cake recipe so many times I could practically whip it up in my sleep.</p> 203<p>But writing a novel? <em>Oy</em>…</p> 204<p>No matter how much I’ve learned along the way, I continue to discover that there’s <em>so</em> much more to learn. I’ll always be an apprentice to this craft. Which keeps the writing journey fresh and exciting (as Lynn referenced so beautifully in her blog yesterday), while also providing ample opportunities for frustration andâ¦well, some crying too, LOL. Especially toward the end when you’re certain the book you’re writing is your worst yet, and you’d swear you can hear your editor turning on her shredder.</p> 205<p>I’m currently working to finish the third (and final) book in the Belmont series (following <em>A Lasting Impression</em> and <em>A Beauty So Rare</em>), and while I’m enjoying writing this book (it definitely has a different feel from the last four or five novels I’ve written), I also find myself hesitant to bring it to a close. Because I’m going to miss these people. Not only the male and female protagonist in the story but the secondary characters who’ve populated all of the Belmont Mansion novelsâand my heartâfor the past four years.</p> 206<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Screen-Shot-2015-08-17-at-11.33.06-PM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-6587" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Screen-Shot-2015-08-17-at-11.33.06-PM.png?resize=432%2C403" alt="Screen Shot 2015-08-17 at 11.33.06 PM" width="432" height="403" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/w
206p-content/uploads/2015/08/Screen-Shot-2015-08-17-at-11.33.06-PM.png?w=432&ssl=1 432w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Screen-Shot-2015-08-17-at-11.33.06-PM.png?resize=250%2C233&ssl=1 250w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 432px) 100vw, 432px" /></a></p> 207<p>They’re dear friends whom I’ve grown to love, even while wanting to slap them upside the head on numerous occasions. <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f642.png" alt="ð" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" loading="lazy" /></p> 208<p><strong>Are you a creative person at heart? Does any part of the process outlined in the plaque above resonant with you? Is there something you really enjoy doing that sometimes nearly drives you to drink?! </strong></p> 209<p>I’d love to know.</p> 210<p>Blessings on your Tuesday,</p> 211<p>Tammy</p> 212<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nashville’s “Owl” Tree</strong></p> 213<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/OwlTree2.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-6586" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/OwlTree2.jpg?resize=640%2C480" alt="OwlTree2" width="640" height="480" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/OwlTree2.jpg?w=640&ssl=1 640w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/OwlTree2.jpg?resize=250%2C188&ssl=1 250w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /></a></p> 214<p>My daughter Kelsey and I were running errands on Sunday when I spotted this historical marker and had to stop. I didn’t know this tree existed until this past weekend but oh, what a treasure! It’s been calculated that this gorgeous old oak tree has been providing shade and beauty to this site for over 200 years. Local history records that it’s sheltered uncounted generations of owls in its branches since at least 1864 when Confederate troops reportedly camped here. If only this tree could talk!</p> 215<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>What scenes do <em>you</em> imagine when looking at this magnificent old tree?</strong></p> 216`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/CreativeProcess-copy-750x282.jpg?resize=598%2C225",tags:["Assorted & Sundry","Writing"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/the-creative-process/"},{slug:"good-times-with-good-friends",title:"Good times with good friends",date:"2015-08-04",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"This past weekend, we had the pleasure of hosting some dear friends from our Colorado days. Only, Jeff and Donna Crane live in Oklahoma now. We had such a wonderful time. Jeff, Donna, Tamera, Joe Even though we havenâtâ¦",content:`<p>This past weekend, we had the pleasure of hosting some dear friends from our Colorado days. Only, Jeff and Donna Crane live in Oklahoma now. We had such a wonderful time.</p> 217<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7090.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-6460" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7090.jpg?resize=450%2C338" alt="IMG_7090" width="450" height="338" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7090.jpg?w=1368&ssl=1 1368w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7090.jpg?resize=250%2C188&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7090.jpg?resize=750%2C563&
217ssl=1 750w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px" /></a>Jeff, Donna, Tamera, Joe</p> 218<p>Even though we haven’t seen them in years, we’ve stayed in touch. So we picked up right where we left off. Don’t you <em>love</em> friendships like that?</p> 219<p> </p> 220<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7094.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-6461" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7094.jpg?resize=500%2C375" alt="IMG_7094" width="500" height="375" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7094.jpg?w=1440&ssl=1 1440w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7094.jpg?resize=250%2C188&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7094.jpg?resize=750%2C563&ssl=1 750w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 500px) 100v
220w, 500px" /></a>Jeff and Donna Crane, Kelsey and Kurt</p> 221<p style="text-align: left;">It’s hard to believe we’ve been in Nashville for eight years since moving from Greeley, Colorado. Gracious, the years are flying by. I’m so thankful for friendships, both the old and the new.</p> 222<p style="text-align: left;">There’s a poem by <a href="http://www.amazon.com/God-Fool-Lois-Cheney-Ph-D-ebook/dp/B006N6TZVU/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=" target="_blank">Lois Cheney from a book entitled <em>God is No Fool</em> </a>that’s resonated with me for years. It begins…</p> 223<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff;">People important to you, people unimportant to you, cross your life, touch it with love and carelessness, and move on. There are people that leave you, and you breathe a sigh of relief, and you wonder why you ever came in contact with them. There are people who leave, and you breathe a sigh of remorse, and wonder why they had to go and leave such a gaping hole. </span></p> 224<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff;">Children leave parents, friends leave friends, acquaintances move on. You think on the many who have moved into your life with hazy memory. You look on those present and wonder.</span></p> 225<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff;">I believe in Godâs master plan for our lives.</span></p> 226<p style="text-align: left;">I believe in God’s master plan in our lives too. And leaving Jeff and Donna behind in Colorado definitely left a gaping hole. So I’m especially grateful for their visit this weekend and that God purposed our lives to cross paths all those years ago.</p> 227<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7099.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-6462" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7099-587x750.jpg?resize=350%2C447" alt="IMG_7099" width="350" height="447" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7099.jpg?resize=587%2C750&ssl=1 587w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7099.jpg?resize=196%2C250&ssl=1 196w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7099.jpg?w=959&ssl=1 959w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 350px) 100vw, 350px" /></a>Donna and Kelsey (they’re fun together!)</p> 228<p style="text-align: left;">I recently made some new friends too in Rick Probst and Dan Ratcliffe from FaithTalk Live in Atlanta. I’ve done many interviews in the past few years which have been fun! But when Rick and Dan welcome me to their Atlanta radio show, it feels like I’m sitting down with friends. Much <em>older</em> friends. : )</p> 229<p> </p> 230<p><a href="https://soundcloud.com/faithtalklive" target="_blank"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-6463" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Screen-Shot-2015-08-04-at-7.27.05-AM-750x338.png?resize=500%2C225" alt="Screen Shot 2015-08-04 at 7.27.05 AM" width="500" height="225" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Screen-Shot-2015-08-04-at-7.27.05-AM.png?resize=750%2C338&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Screen-Shot-2015-08-04-at-7.27.05-AM.png?resize=250%2C113&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Screen-Shot-2015-08-04-at-7.27.05-AM.png?w=1120&
230ssl=1 1120w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></a></p> 231<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/faithtalklive" target="_blank">Click to listen</a></p> 232<p style="text-align: left;">Yesterday as we chatted, Rick and Dan asked me to put them in an upcoming book, and the thoughts are already spinning as to how that might play out. These guys are such fun. We laugh (a lot), chat about life, kids, careers, families, and every other topic that comes to mind.</p> 233<p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="color: #0000ff;">What’s a characteristic about a dear friend that you love most? Is it the ability they have to make you laugh? To see God’s hand in your life? To say just the right thing at the right time? Or maybe it’s that they lovingly confront you and hold you accountable (that’s a prized attribute indeed).</span></strong></p> 234<p style="text-align: left;">I always look forward to hearing from youâand I’m thanking God right now for the blessing <em>you</em> are in my life.</p> 235<p style="text-align: left;">Tamera</p> 236<p style="text-align: center;">In case you haven’t heard of Jen Hatmaker yet… Oh my word, love her! Her upcoming release, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00QL9LFCG/tameralexa-20" target="_blank"><em>For the Love</em></a>, is hysterical too. It’s full of grins and humorous reminders of what’s most important in life. Don’t miss it! It feels like she’s sitting right across the table from you chatting.</p> 237<p><iframe loading="lazy" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/O47HASywXnU" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> 238`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/IMG_7090.jpg?resize=450%2C338",tags:["Assorted & Sundry","Family","Friendship"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/good-times-with-good-friends/"},{slug:"novel-quotes-and-words-that-last",title:"Novel quotes and words that last",date:"2015-07-31",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"Published 2006 with Bethany House (my first published novel) A reader, Paula, wrote me earlier this week and asked a question: âI just finished Rekindled , and want to remember a direct quote from the book. However,â¦",content:`<div id="attachment_6401" style="width: 238px" class="wp-caption alignright"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00B5J4XGM/tameralexa-20" target="_blank"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-6401" class="wp-image-6401 size-full" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Rekindled-SM.jpeg?resize=228%2C346" alt="Rekindled_Cover" width="228" height="346" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Rekindled-SM.jpeg?w=228&ssl=1 228w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Rekindled-SM.jpeg?resize=165%2C250&ssl=1 165w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 228px) 100vw, 228px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-6401" class="wp-caption-text">Published 2006 with Bethany House (my first published novel)</p></div> 239<p>A reader, Paula, wrote me earlier this week and asked a question:</p> 240<p><span style="color: #0000ff;">“I just finished <em>Rekindled</em>, and want to remember a direct quote from the book. However, when looking back through, I can’t locate it. It’s the one about forgiveness being the only gift that we can only keep by giving it away. I know it’s an imposition, but could you possibly send me the exact quote? I would appreciate it so very much. <em>Rekindled</em> is my favorite so far!”</span></p> 241<p>So I went digging into the files on my laptop, back to the final copy edited version of <em><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00B5J4XGM/tameralexa-20" target="_blank">Rekindled</a>. </em>I searched for forgiveness, and found this:</p> 242<h5 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #000000;">Thankful for the darkness and the noise of the wagon wheels over the prairie, Larson searched the night sky. Forgiveness was a strange gift. One that had to be shared in order to be kept. He might not understand everything the Bible said, but Godâs Word was clear on that point. </span></h5> 243<p>I wrote Paula back and shared the location of the passage (Ch 22, pg 263 in the original version of the book, but there have been 10+ reprints since so another person’s copy may vary). But her note absolutely made my day!</p> 244<p>
244It means so much that that specific passage meant so much to her. It did to me, too, as I wrote it. And it still does. Because the powerâand accompanying obligationâof forgiveness is something God continues to impress on my heart.</p> 245<p>Another thing I noticed as I looked up the passage was the date on the fileâAugust 16, 2005. Almost <em>ten years</em> have passed since I turned in my first edited manuscript. Hard to believe.</p> 246<p>I feel like I’m a slow writer (and I <em>am</em> by usual standards, let’s face it), but it’s encouraging to look back and see what God’s done in that time period. Eleven novels [some of them really l-o-n-g, LOL] and one novella. I never dreamed in younger years that I’d ever be a writer, so I’m especially grateful that Jesus guided my steps to this path. Because it led me to share stories of faith and hope. And it led me to you and to the connections we share, which are so precious.</p> 247<p>So tell meâ¦</p> 248<p><strong><span style="color: #0000ff;">Is there a quote from any novel that’s stood out in your memory as you’ve read through the years? Snatches of either narrative or dialogue from a character that really resonated with you? If so, I’d love to hear it. And if you would include the novel and author, that’d be great!</span></strong></p> 249<p>Can’t wait to see if we share some favorite passages and character memories!</p> 250<p>Tamera</p> 251<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://litfusegroup.com/campaigns/among-the-fair-magnolias" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ff0000;"><strong>Southern Hearts Kindle FIRE Giveaway<br /> 252</strong></span><span style="color: #ff0000;"><strong>Have you entered to win yet? </strong></span></a></p> 253<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/magnolias-400.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-6403" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/magnolias-400-250x188.png?resize=250%2C188" alt="magnolias-400" width="250" height="188" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/magnolias-400.png?resize=250%2C188&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/magnolias-400.png?w=400&ssl=1 400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 250px) 100vw, 250px" /></a></p> 254`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Rekindled-SM.jpeg?resize=228%2C346",tags:["Assorted & Sundry","Writing"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/novel-quotes-and-words-that-last/"},{slug:"girl-time-and-among-the-fair-magnolias-winners-announced",title:"Girl time & and Among the Fair Magnolias winners announced",date:"2015-07-30",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"Think of a weekend away with some of your favorite girlfriends thatâs full to overflowing with laughter, love, sharing, great food, more laughter, singing, more great food. And now add the dynamic that all those galsâ¦",content:`<p>Think of a weekend away with some of your favorite girlfriends that’s full to overflowing with laughter, love, sharing, great food, more laughter, singing, more great food. And now add the dynamic that all those gals are sisters in Christâand all are writers.</p> 255<p>Can you say <em>a bit of heaven?</em>!</p> 256<p>This past weekend I attended an annual writers retreat that started back in 2003 (I can hardly believe this was our 13th year), and it’s a weekend I look forward to all year long.</p> 257<p> </p> 258<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/CdA2015Group.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-6388" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/CdA2015Group-750x632.jpg?resize=750%2C632" alt="CdA2015Group" width="750" height="632" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/w
258p-content/uploads/2015/07/CdA2015Group.jpg?resize=750%2C632&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/CdA2015Group.jpg?resize=250%2C211&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/CdA2015Group.jpg?w=978&ssl=1 978w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" /></a>From L to R: (back row) Sandy Sheppard, Sharon Dunn, Francine Rivers,<br /> 259(2nd row) Gayle DeSalles, Robin Lee Hatcher, Sunni Jeffers, Brandilyn Collins,<br /> 260(front trio) Karen Ball, Janet Ulbright, and Tamera Alexander</p> 261<p>The ten of us met for the weekend to PLOT, PLAY, and PRAY (missing our sweet Tricia Goyer who couldn’t make it this year, love you Tricia!).</p> 262<p>We <strong>plot</strong> each others’ next books. We <strong>play</strong> on the lake, watch movies, take walks. And we <strong>pray</strong>âstarting each day by focusing on God’s Word and lifting our praises to Him, and asking his blessing on our time together. To be honest, I went fairly empty and weary. And left full to overflowing and so encouraged! While still a little tired. LOL!</p> 263<p>Do you have times of refreshment like this with girlfriends, too? I sure hope you do. Makes all the difference in the world.</p> 264<p>And nowâ¦</p> 265<p><span style="color: #0000ff;"><strong>Winners announced from last week’s giveaway, plus <em>another</em> giveaway!</strong></span></p> 266<p> </p> 267<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Screen-Shot-2015-07-29-at-9.55.09-PM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-6392" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Screen-Shot-2015-07-29-at-9.55.09-PM-750x100.png?resize=750%2C100" alt="Screen Shot 2015-07-29 at 9.55.09 PM" width="750" height="100" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Screen-Shot-2015-07-29-at-9.55.09-PM.png?resize=750%2C100&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Screen-Shot-2015-07-29-at-9.55.09-PM.png?resize=250%2C33&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Screen-Shot-2015-07-29-at-9.55.09-PM.png?w=948&ssl=1 948w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" /></a></p> 268<p> </p> 269<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #ff0000;"><em>Sonja, you won the MP3 version of Among the Fair Magnolias!</em></span></p> 270<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Screen-Shot-2015-07-29-at-9.55.24-PM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-6393" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Screen-Shot-2015-07-29-at-9.55.24-PM-750x99.png?resize=750%2C99" alt="Screen Shot 2015-07-29 at 9.55.24 PM" width="750" height="99" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Screen-Shot-2015-07-29-at-9.55.24-PM.png?resize=750%2C99&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Screen-Shot-2015-07-29-at-9.55.24-PM.png?resize=250%2C33&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Screen-Shot-2015-07-29-at-9.55.24-PM.png?w=928&ssl=1 928w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" /></a></p> 271<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #ff0000;"><em>Trixi, you won the PRINT version of Among the Fair Magnolias!</em></span></p> 272<p> </p> 273<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.tameraalexander.com/contact.html" target="_blank">Click here to email me your snail mail addresses, Sonja and Trixi, </a><br /> 274<a href="http://www.tameraalexander.com/contact.html" target="_blank">and we’ll get your copies in the mail!</a></p> 275<p> </p> 276<p>And now the giveawayâ¦</p> 277<p> </p> 278<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff;"><strong><a href="http://litfusegroup.com/campaigns/among-the-fair-magnolias" target="_blank">A chance to win a Kindle FIRE</a></strong></span></p> 279<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://litfusegroup.com/campaigns/among-the-fair-magnolias" target="_blank"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-6390" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/w
279p-content/uploads/2015/07/magnolias-pinterest-SM.png?resize=399%2C633" alt="magnolias-pinterest SM" width="399" height="633" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/magnolias-pinterest-SM.png?w=399&ssl=1 399w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/magnolias-pinterest-SM.png?resize=158%2C250&ssl=1 158w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 399px) 100vw, 399px" /></a></p> 280<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://litfusegroup.com/campaigns/among-the-fair-magnolias" target="_blank">Enter the Southern Hearts Kindle FIRE Giveaway</a></p> 281<p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="color: #0000ff;">What’s a favorite girls’ getaway or retreat you’ve attended in the past? Do you have a special</span><span style="color: #0000ff;"> memory you can share? Sweet or embarrassing, whichever you prefer! ; )</span></strong></p> 282<p style="text-align: left;">Blessings on your Wednesday, friends,</p> 283<p style="text-align: left;">Tamera</p> 284`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/CdA2015Group-750x632.jpg?resize=750%2C632",tags:["Assorted & Sundry","Friendship","Writing"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/girl-time-and-among-the-fair-magnolias-winners-announced/"},{slug:"southern-through-and-through",title:"Southern through and through",date:"2015-07-21",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"ENTER TO WIN by midnight Central, Tuesday, July 28 I love the South. Iâm Southern by birth and appreciate the food, the people, the history, the literature, and all most (LOL) of the idiosyncrasies that come with beingâ¦",content:`<div id="attachment_6323" style="width: 220px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-6323" class="wp-image-6323" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/ATFMGiveaway.png?resize=210%2C230" alt="ATFMGiveaway" width="210" height="230" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/ATFMGiveaway.png?w=432&ssl=1 432w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/ATFMGiveaway.png?resize=228%2C250&ssl=1 228w" sizes="(max-width: 210px) 100vw, 210px" loading="lazy" /><p id="caption-attachment-6323" class="wp-caption-text">ENTER TO WIN by midnight Central, Tuesday, July 28</p></div> 285<p>I love the South. I’m Southern by birth and appreciate the food, the people, the history, the literature, and <del>all</del> most (LOL) of the idiosyncrasies that come with being Southern.</p> 286<p>So when I was approached about writing yet another Southern love storyâthis time a novellaâI said, “Where and when?”</p> 287<p>And writing with author friends Shelley Shepard Gray, Dorothy Love, and Elizabeth Musser only made the experience sweeter. Fabulous women all, and I so enjoyed working with them on these stories in <em>Among the Fair Magnolias.</em></p> 288<h5 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/ATFMAuthorRowSM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-6317" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/ATFMAuthorRowSM.png?resize=400%2C159" alt="ATFMAuthorRowSM" width="400" height="159" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/ATFMAuthorRowSM.png?w=691&ssl=1 691w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/ATFMAuthorRowSM.png?resize=250%2C99&ssl=1 250w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px" loading="lazy" /></a></h5> 289<p>To celebrate the release this month, we made a video sharing how we each came to write our story, and in it we each reveal at least two <span style="color: #0000ff;">#LittleKnownAuthorFacts</span> that you may (or may not) know about each of us.</p> 290<p>HINT: Get ready, those of you who <em>think</em> you know Ms. Dorothy Love. I’m just sayin’…<br /> 291<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/uYbxyH1k1MM" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> 292<p>And now, a giveaway! But this giveaway is a little different.</p> 293<p>I’m giving away <em>two</em> books, but <strong>one is a print edition</strong> and <strong>the other is an MP3</strong>. Feel free to state which version you’re interested in winning. [If you don’t state a choice, you’ll be entered to win either.]</p> 294<p><span style="color: #000000;">How do you enter to win?</span></p> 295<p>1) Simply leave a comment on <em>this</em> blog post by midnight central, Tuesday, July 28, sharing one of the <span style="color: #0000ff;">#LittleKnownAuthorFacts</span> you didn’t know about one of the authors, and why you chose that fact (do you have something in common with them perhaps?).</p> 296<p>2) <span style="color: #ff0000;">To earn two extra chances to win</span>, <span style="color: #ff0000;"><strong>SHARE</strong></span> the video above on either your Facebook page, blog, in a tweet, or on Pinterest, and include the URL (where you shared it) in your comment as well, then your name will be added to the hat twice more (for a total of three times).</p> 297<p><span style="color: #0000ff;"><strong>Tell me, are you Southern by birth? Or maybe by <em>transplant</em>? What do you love most about the South? Or if you don’t love anything about it, well then⦠<em>Bless your heart and have a nice day!</em></strong></span></p> 298<p><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f642.png" alt="ð" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" loading="lazy" /></p> 299<p>Tamera</p> 300`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/w
300p-content/uploads/2015/07/ATFMGiveaway.png?resize=210%2C230",tags:["Assorted & Sundry","Recipes"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/southern-through-and-through/"},{slug:"delayed-promises",title:"Delayed Promises",date:"2015-07-07",category:"Devotional Reflections",excerpt:"âGodâs promises, even though delayed, are not endangered. Danger and doubt donât change his promises.â I jotted that note down a few weeks ago in church when one of our pastors was sharing from the Word, and Iâveâ¦",content:`<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800080;"><strong><em>“God’s promises, even though delayed, are not endangered.<br /> 301</em></strong><strong><em>Danger and doubt don’t change his promises.”</em></strong></span></p> 302<p>I jotted that note down a few weeks ago in church when one of our pastors was sharing from the Word, and I’ve thought of it several times since. The fact that God doesn’t change, that Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow has long been a comfort to meâand it’s becoming more so all the time.</p> 303<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Screen-Shot-2015-07-06-at-10.17.39-PM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-6125" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Screen-Shot-2015-07-06-at-10.17.39-PM-515x750.png?resize=350%2C510" alt="Screen Shot 2015-07-06 at 10.17.39 PM" width="350" height="510" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Screen-Shot-2015-07-06-at-10.17.39-PM.png?resize=515%2C750&ssl=1 515w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Screen-Shot-2015-07-06-at-10.17.39-PM.png?resize=172%2C250&ssl=1 172w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Screen-Shot-2015-07-06-at-10.17.39-PM.png?w=560&ssl=1 560w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 350px) 100vw, 350px" /></a></p> 304<p>On a flight to Orlando last weekend, I was drawn to the book of Revelation and I poured over the first few chapters, making notes (and getting ready for BSF this fall!). The phrase “patient endurance” stood out to me (Rev 1:9 and 2:2), as did Jesus’s admonition to the church in Smyrna in 2:10…</p> 305<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333;"><em>“Don’t be afraid of what you are about to suffer. The devil will throw some of you into prison to test you. You will suffer for ten days. But if you remain faithful even when facing death, </em><em>I will give you the crown of life.” </em></span></p> 306<p>What amazing comfort and encouragement to know that Jesus <em>sees</em> all, <em>knows</em> all, is <em>in control</em> of all.</p> 307<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/ICor2-91.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-6129" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/ICor2-91.jpg?resize=350%2C267" alt="ICor2 9" width="350" height="267" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/ICor2-91.jpg?w=488&ssl=1 488w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/ICor2-91.jpg?resize=250%2C191&ssl=1 250w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 350px) 100vw, 350px" /></a></p> 308<p>So much of what God communicates in those chapters seems tailor made for our times. And yet, there’s strange comfort in realizing that mankind hasn’t changed through the years. Those words given by God over 2,000 years ago described the hearts of people in the world then, and now.</p> 309<p>He promises to be with us, to give us the strength to remain faithful, and that a crown of life awaits for the faithful. What assurance. Assurance we can trust. Because his promises, even though delayed, are never endangered. Danger and doubt don’t change his promises. And aren’t we thankful!</p> 310<p><span style="color: #333333;"><strong><span style="color: #800080;">Is there a scriptureâor certain truth, encouragementâthe Lord has laid on your heart in recent days? Or perhaps a delayed promise you’re still trusting in that we could join in prayer about for you? </span><span style="color: #800080;">Also, are there any other <em>BSF buddies</em> who are looking forward to Revelation this fall like me? </span></strong></span></p> 311<p>Tammy</p> 312<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media.harpercollinschristian.com/page/fairmagnoliastreasury/" target="_blank">Thanks to everyone who shared and tweeted<br /> 313and met the magic number so the exclusive material<br /> 314for <em>Among the Fair Magnolias</em> could be shared!</a></p> 315<p><a href="http://media.harpercollinschristian.com/page/fairmagnoliastreasury/" target="_blank"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-6126" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/w
315p-content/uploads/2015/07/AmongtheFairMagnoliasSM-492x750.jpeg?resize=350%2C533" alt="Among the Fair Magnolias_3.indd" width="350" height="533" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/AmongtheFairMagnoliasSM.jpeg?resize=492%2C750&ssl=1 492w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/AmongtheFairMagnoliasSM.jpeg?resize=164%2C250&ssl=1 164w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/AmongtheFairMagnoliasSM.jpeg?w=720&ssl=1 720w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 350px) 100vw, 350px" /></a></p> 316<p> </p> 317<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><a href="http://media.harpercollinschristian.com/page/fairmagnoliastreasury/" target="_blank">Releases July 14</a></strong></p> 318<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #ff0000;"><em><a style="color: #ff0000; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://media.harpercollinschristian.com/page/fairmagnoliastreasury/" target="_blank">Click for exclusive content</a></em></span></p> 319`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Screen-Shot-2015-07-06-at-10.17.39-PM-515x750.png?resize=350%2C510",tags:["Assorted & Sundry","Faith"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/delayed-promises/"},{slug:"through-the-gates-of-splendor-indeed",title:"Through the Gates of Splendor, indeed",date:"2015-06-16",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"As Iâm sure youâve heard, Elisabeth Elliot passed into glory yesterday morning. Through the Gates of Splendor, indeed. Bless you, Elisabeth Elliot, for enriching our lives and deepening our longing for Home, and forâ¦",content:`<p>As I’m sure you’ve heard, Elisabeth Elliot passed into glory yesterday morning. Through the<img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-5899 alignright" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Screen-Shot-2015-06-15-at-11.15.15-PM.png?resize=279%2C209" alt="Screen Shot 2015-06-15 at 11.15.15 PM" width="279" height="209" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Screen-Shot-2015-06-15-at-11.15.15-PM.png?w=390&ssl=1 390w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Screen-Shot-2015-06-15-at-11.15.15-PM.png?resize=250%2C187&ssl=1 250w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 279px) 100vw, 279px" /> Gates of Splendor, indeed. <em>Bless you, Elisabeth Elliot, for enriching our lives and deepening our longing for Home, and for challenging us to trust in God even when trusting seems next to impossible.</em></p> 320<p>Can you imagine what that homecoming must have been like? Elisabeth finally seeing her Lord face to face, and then seeing her first husband Jim again after his tragic passing in 1956 when he was killed during their brief but legendary mission work in Ecuador.</p> 321<p>Do you have a favorite quote from one of her books?</p> 322<p>A favorite book of mine she wrote is <a href="http://www.christianbook.com/through-gates-of-splendor/elisabeth-elliot/9780842371520/pd/71524?kw=21904556532&mt=b&dv=c&event=PPCSRC&p=1018818&gclid=CNqk04uhk8YCFVM8gQod0q4A8w" target="_blank"><em>Through the Gates of Splendor.</em></a> I read it years ago and occasionally pick it back up and leaf through it, reading underlined passages. Those kind of books are like old friends, aren’t they?</p> 323<p>Some of my favorite quotes:</p> 324<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff;">âI have one desire now – to live a life of reckless abandon for the Lord, </span><span style="color: #0000ff;">putting all my energy and strength into it.â </span></p> 325<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff;">âGod is God. I dethrone Him in my heart if I demand that He act in ways that satisfy my idea of justice.</span><span style="color: #0000ff;">â </span></p> 326<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff;">âGod withholds blessing only in wisdom, </span><br /> 327<span style="color: #0000ff;">never in spite or aloofness.â </span></p> 328<p>I read the following in an article on her life yesterdayâa poem she wrote when college ageâand again glimpsed her enduring faith and love shining through even at that youthful time in her life.</p> 329<p style="text-align: center;">‘Perhaps some future day, Lord,<br />
330Thy strong hand will lead me to the place<br /> 331Where I must stand utterly alone;<br /> 332Alone, Oh gracious Lover, but for Thee.</p> 333<p style="text-align: center;">I shall be satisfied if I can see Jesus only.<br /> 334I do not know Thy plan for years to come.<br /> 335My spirit finds in Thee its perfect home: sufficiency.<br /> 336Lord, all my desire is before Thee now.<br /> 337Lead on no matter where, no matter how,<br /> 338I trust in Thee…’ “</p> 339<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Screen-Shot-2015-06-15-at-11.12.05-PM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-5898" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Screen-Shot-2015-06-15-at-11.12.05-PM.png?resize=408%2C298" alt="Screen Shot 2015-06-15 at 11.12.05 PM" width="408" height="298" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Screen-Shot-2015-06-15-at-11.12.05-PM.png?w=673&ssl=1 673w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Screen-Shot-2015-06-15-at-11.12.05-PM.png?resize=250%2C183&ssl=1 250w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 408px) 100vw, 408px" /></a></p> 340<h3 style="text-align: left;"><em><span style="color: #0000ff;">Have you read any of Elisabeth’s books? Do do you have a favorite quote from her?<br /> 341</span></em></h3> 342<p style="text-align: left;">Tammy</p> 343<hr /> 344<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/among-the-fair-magnolias/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>** Winners of <em>Among the Fair Magnolias from my post t</em>wo weeks ago **</strong></span></a></p> 345<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/ATFMRTReviewSM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class=" wp-image-5681 alignright" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/ATFMRTReviewSM.png?resize=257%2C463" alt="ATFMRTReviewSM" width="257" height="463" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/ATFMRTReviewSM.png?w=358&ssl=1 358w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/ATFMRTReviewSM.png?resize=139%2C250&ssl=1 139w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 257px) 100vw, 257px" /></a></em></strong><br /> 346<span style="color: #ff0000;"><em><a href="http://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/among-the-fair-magnolias/" target="_blank">Deanna and Betti</a>, I’m still waiting to hear from you!</em></span></p> 347<p><a href="http://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/among-the-fair-magnolias/"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-5894" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Screen-Shot-2015-06-15-at-9.59.56-PM.png?resize=338%2C268" alt="Screen Shot 2015-06-15 at 9.59.56 PM" width="338" height="268" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Screen-Shot-2015-06-15-at-9.59.56-PM.png?w=487&ssl=1 487w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Screen-Shot-2015-06-15-at-9.59.56-PM.png?resize=250%2C198&ssl=1 250w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 338px) 100vw, 338px" /></a></p> 348`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Screen-Shot-2015-06-15-at-11.15.15-PM.png?resize=279%2C209",tags:["Assorted & Sundry"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/through-the-gates-of-splendor-indeed/"},{slug:"among-the-fair-magnolias",title:"Among the Fair Magnolias",date:"2015-06-02",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"I had the pleasure earlier this year of writing my first novella, which was quite a feat for meâtelling an entire story in 26,000 words. But I had a blast doing it and really learned a lot about pacing and sticking toâ¦",content:`<p>I had the pleasure earlier this year of writing my first novella, which was quite a feat for meâtelling an entire story in 26,000 words. But I had a blast doing it and really learned a lot about pacing and sticking to the action in the process. To Mend a Dream is part of the Southern novella collection <em><a href="http://www.tameraalexander.com/upcomingreleases.html" target="_blank">Among the Fair Magnolias</a>.</em></p> 349<p><a href="http://www.tameraalexander.com/upcomingreleases.html" target="_blank"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5682" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/w
349p-content/uploads/2015/06/ATFMRTReviewSMSize.png?resize=330%2C594" alt="ATFMRTReviewSMSize" width="330" height="594" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/ATFMRTReviewSMSize.png?w=330&ssl=1 330w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/ATFMRTReviewSMSize.png?resize=139%2C250&ssl=1 139w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 330px) 100vw, 330px" /></a></p> 350<p>What made the experience of writing this novella so enjoyableâsame for its upcoming July releaseâis partnering with the other authors in the collection. Shelley, Dorothy, and Elizabeth are a joy to collaborate with.</p> 351<p>The novellas are “standalone” storiesâmeaning they’re not linked to one another other than the Southern genreâand take place in Tennessee (that’s the Belle Meade story), Georgia, Texas, and South Carolina. Each novella has a yummy Southern recipe included in the story too, along with discussion questions for reading groups.</p> 352<p><strong>About <em>Among the Fair Magnolias</em>:<br /> 353</strong>In the most turbulent decade of our nationâs history, four Southern womenâdestinies forged by birth, hearts steeled by warâface near impossible choices on their journeys in life . . . and in love.</p> 354<p><span style="color: #800000;"><i>To Mend a Dream</i> by Tamera Alexander</span><br /> 355(a Belle Meade Plantation novella)<br /> 356Savannah Darby would do almost anything to revisit her family home. So when new owner, Aidan Bedford, a Boston attorney and former Union soldier, seeks to redecorate the house for his fiancée, Savannah jumps at the opportunity. But the clock is ticking. Can she find the box her father supposedly hid there during the war before her assignment is completed? And before she sees yet another battle lost on the home front. This time, one of the heart.</p> 357<p><span style="color: #800000;"><i>An Outlaw’s Heart</i> by Shelley Shepard Gray</span><br /> 358When Russell Stark returns to Fort Worth, he’s determined to begin a new life. But when he arrives at his mother’s homestead, he discovers she’s very ill, and the woman he loved is still as beautiful and sweet as he remembered. With time running out, Russell must come to terms with both his future and his past.</p> 359<p><span style="color: #800000;"><i>A Heart So True</i> by Dorothy Love</span><br /> 360Abigail knows all too well what is expected of her: to marry her distant cousin Charles and take her place in society. But her heart belongs to another. A terrible incident forces Abby to choose between love and duty.</p> 361<p><span style="color: #800000;"><i>Love Beyond Limits</i> by Elizabeth Musser</span><br /> 362Emily has a secret: She’s in love with one of the freedmen on her family’s plantation. Meanwhile, another man declares his love for her. Emily realizes some things are not as they seem and secrets must be kept in order to keep those she loves safe.</p> 363<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff;"><strong>If you’d like to win 1 of 2 advance reader copies of <em>Among the Fair Magnolias</em>,<br /> 364</strong><strong>simply leave a comment on this post <span style="text-decoration: underline;">by midnight tonight</span><br /> 365(Central time) and you’ll be entered.</strong></span></p> 366<p>One last tidbit about To Mend a Dream, my novella in the collectionâ¦<br /> 367If you’ve read <em>To Win Her Favor</em>, then you’ve already met Savannah Darby, the heroine. Savannah’s a secondary character in <em>To Win Her Favor</em> whose story is wrapped up at the end<em>. </em>Yet I quickly discovered there was more to be told, and I’m grateful for the chance to tell it.</p> 368<p><strong>Speaking of secondary characters⦠Who’s one of the most memorable secondary characters you’ve read? Share the book title and author, if you can. It’ll be fun to see if we have any in common. </strong></p> 369<p>Tammy</p> 370<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://acjeffcott.blogspot.com/2015/05/books-and-baking-with-tamera-alexander.html" target="_blank">Check out Aunt Issy’s Lemon Cookies from <em>To Win Her Favor<br /> 371</em>on Angela Jeffcoot’s blog (isn’t her daughter adorable!)</a></p> 372<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://acjeffcott.blogspot.com/2015/05/books-and-baking-with-tamera-alexander.html" target="_blank"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5684" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/w
372p-content/uploads/2015/06/AuntIssysLemonCookies.png?resize=329%2C739" alt="AuntIssysLemonCookies" width="329" height="739" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/AuntIssysLemonCookies.png?w=329&ssl=1 329w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/AuntIssysLemonCookies.png?resize=111%2C250&ssl=1 111w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 329px) 100vw, 329px" /></a></p> 373<p style="text-align: center;"> 374<p style="text-align: center;"> 375<hr /> 376<p> </p> 377<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff;">The winners of the two ARCs (advance reader copies)<br /> 378</span><span style="color: #0000ff;">of <em>Among the Fair Magnolias</em> are…</span></h3> 379<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Screen-Shot-2015-06-03-at-12.27.58-AM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-5705" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Screen-Shot-2015-06-03-at-12.27.58-AM.png?resize=310%2C124" alt="Screen Shot 2015-06-03 at 12.27.58 AM" width="310" height="124" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Screen-Shot-2015-06-03-at-12.27.58-AM.png?w=456&ssl=1 456w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Screen-Shot-2015-06-03-at-12.27.58-AM.png?resize=250%2C100&ssl=1 250w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 310px) 100vw, 310px" /></a></p> 380<p> </p> 381<h2 style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="color: #0000ff;">&</span></em><br /> 382<a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Screen-Shot-2015-06-03-at-12.28.27-AM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-5706" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Screen-Shot-2015-06-03-at-12.28.27-AM.png?resize=361%2C134" alt="Screen Shot 2015-06-03 at 12.28.27 AM" width="361" height="134" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Screen-Shot-2015-06-03-at-12.28.27-AM.png?w=538&ssl=1 538w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Screen-Shot-2015-06-03-at-12.28.27-AM.png?resize=250%2C93&ssl=1 250w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 361px) 100vw, 361px" /></a></h2> 383<p><span style="color: #0000ff;">Congrats, <strong>Deanna</strong> and <strong>Betti</strong>! If you’ll each click <span style="color: #ff0000;"><a style="color: #ff0000;" href="http://www.tameraalexander.com/contact.html" target="_blank"><strong>HERE</strong></a></span> then scroll down to “Send Tamera an email” and send me your snail mail address, we’ll get your ARC of <em>Among the Fair Magnolias</em> in the mail to you. </span></p> 384<p><span style="color: #0000ff;">To everyone else, thanks so much for entering and for the kind words. So grateful we’re on this journey together.</span></p> 385`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/ATFMRTReviewSMSize.png?resize=330%2C594",tags:["Assorted & Sundry","Reading","Recipes"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/among-the-fair-magnolias/"},{slug:"crazy-fun-at-rt2015-in-dallas",title:"Crazy fun at RT2015 in Dallas",date:"2015-05-19",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"Thirty-plus Inspy authors descended upon Dallas last week attending the 2015 Romantic Times Booklovers Convention. What is the RT Convention, you ask? The RT Convention is a massive conference dedicated to romanceâ¦",content:`<p>Thirty-plus Inspy authors descended upon Dallas last week attending the 2015 Romantic Times Booklovers Convention. What is the RT Convention, you ask?</p> 386<p>The<a href="https://www.rtconvention.com/"> RT Convention</a> is a massive conference dedicated to romance readers of all genres. It’s largely a secular conference, meaning that the majority of authors in attendance write secular romance across a variety of genres, including new adult and erotica.</p> 387<div id="attachment_5540" style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter">
387<a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/IBL_RTBkSigning.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-5540" class="wp-image-5540" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/IBL_RTBkSigning.png?resize=500%2C589" alt="IBL_RTBkSigning" width="500" height="589" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/IBL_RTBkSigning.png?w=618&ssl=1 618w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/IBL_RTBkSigning.png?resize=212%2C250&ssl=1 212w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-5540" class="wp-caption-text">Meeting with readers is always such a blessing, and RT2015 held a HUGE one!</p></div> 388<p> </p> 389<p>I’m already hearing the question forming in some of your minds⦠<em>Why are Inspy authors attending a secular conference?</em></p> 390<p>Quite simply, because romance readers who read and enjoy secular writers (as I do) also read and love inspirational writers. And we love <i>them, </i>in return. And since spending time with readers is always a blast, RT is a fabulous space for writers to be.</p> 391<div id="attachment_5538" style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/IBL_BHPChocFountain.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-5538" class="wp-image-5538" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/IBL_BHPChocFountain.png?resize=500%2C496" alt="IBL_BHPChocFountain" width="500" height="496" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/IBL_BHPChocFountain.png?w=653&ssl=1 653w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/IBL_BHPChocFountain.png?resize=150%2C150&ssl=1 150w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/IBL_BHPChocFountain.png?resize=250%2C248&
391ssl=1 250w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-5538" class="wp-caption-text">Bethany House and Revell Publishers hosted a delectable chocolate fountain event where the authors each signed 100 books for readers while they enjoyed these scrumptious delights.</p></div> 392<p> </p> 393<p>This is the third year Inspy authors have attended RT and, in short, we had an absolute blast! We played Pictionary at an author-sponsored event for readers complete with lots of chocolate and, of course, surprise dance offs! Let me tell you, some of your favorite inspy writers have some <em>really</em> great moves (LOL).</p> 394<div id="attachment_5539" style="width: 543px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/IBL_InspyFan.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-5539" class="wp-image-5539 size-full" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/IBL_InspyFan.png?resize=533%2C710" alt="IBL_InspyFan" width="533" height="710" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/IBL_InspyFan.png?w=533&ssl=1 533w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/IBL_InspyFan.png?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 533px) 100vw, 533px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-5539" class="wp-caption-text">This was just one of the gifts Inspy authors gave to readers at the conference, along with Kindle Fires, gift certificates, and more. #FunTimes</p></div> 395<p> </p> 396<p> </p> 397<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/tamera.alexander/posts/849477811805650" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #ff0000;">Click for more pics of RT2015 Dallas</span></strong></a></p> 398<p>Next year the <a href="http://www.rtbookreviews.com/blog/82391/2016-rt-booklovers-convention-will-be-las-vegas" target="_blank">RT Convention is in Las Vegas</a> (April 12-17, 2016) and if you live nearby, I hope you’ll consider attending. I promise it will be an experience you won’t soon forget. But mostly, it will be an amazing opportunity to share the hope we have in Christ through the stories we read and write.</p> 399<p>So tell meâ¦</p> 400<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/IBL_Question.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-5543" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/IBL_Question.png?resize=500%2C174" alt="IBL_Question" width="500" height="174" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/IBL_Question.png?w=678&ssl=1 678w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/IBL_Question.png?resize=250%2C87&
400ssl=1 250w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></a></p> 401<p>Tammy</p> 402<p style="text-align: center;">Love the ‘<em>feel all the feels</em>‘ comment below. Made me smile!</p> 403<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/ATFMRTReviewSM.png" target="_blank" rel="http://www.tameraalexander.com/upcomingreleases.html"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-5542 size-full" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/ATFMRTReviewSM.png?resize=358%2C644" alt="ATFMRTReviewSM" width="358" height="644" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/ATFMRTReviewSM.png?w=358&ssl=1 358w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/ATFMRTReviewSM.png?resize=139%2C250&ssl=1 139w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 358px) 100vw, 358px" /></a></p> 404<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.tameraalexander.com/upcomingreleases.html" target="_blank">Writing this collection with these gals was a great experience.</a><br /> 405<a href="http://www.tameraalexander.com/upcomingreleases.html" target="_blank">I hope you’ll check out these four Southern love stories </a><br /> 406<a href="http://www.tameraalexander.com/upcomingreleases.html" target="_blank">in <em>Among the Fair Magnolias</em></a>.</p> 407`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/IBL_RTBkSigning.png?resize=500%2C589",tags:["Assorted & Sundry","Friendship"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/crazy-fun-at-rt2015-in-dallas/"},{slug:"a-chance-to-win-to-win-her-favor-and-a-kindle-fire",title:"A chance to win To Win Her Favorâ¦and a Kindle Fire",date:"2015-05-05",category:"Behind the Story",excerpt:"Morning friends, Iâm out the door to Bowling Green, Kentucky soon and am eager to see those of you who are gathering at the Bob Kirby Branch of the Warren County Public Libraries tonight. Weâre going to have fun. Butâ¦",content:`<p>Morning friends,</p> 408<p>I’m out the door to Bowling Green, Kentucky soon and am eager to see those of you who are gathering at the Bob Kirby Branch of the Warren County Public Libraries tonight. We’re going to have fun.</p> 409<p>But first, a giveaway!</p> 410<p><a href="http://litfusegroup.com/campaigns/to-win-her-favor-tamera-alexander" target="_blank"><img data-recalc-dims="1" fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5406" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Screen-Shot-2015-05-05-at-9.15.29-AM.png?resize=496%2C616" alt="Screen Shot 2015-05-05 at 9.15.29 AM" width="496" height="616" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Screen-Shot-2015-05-05-at-9.15.29-AM.png?w=496&ssl=1 496w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Screen-Shot-2015-05-05-at-9.15.29-AM.png?resize=201%2C250&ssl=1 201w" sizes="(max-width: 496px) 100vw, 496px" loading="lazy" /></a></p> 411<p> </p> 412<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://litfusegroup.com/campaigns/to-win-her-favor-tamera-alexander" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ff6600;"><strong>Enter to win a Kindle FIRE and my newest release</strong></span></a></p> 413<p> </p> 414<p>Born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, Iâve long held a strong connection with Southern history. And what historical event defines the South as much as the War Between the States? Family homes became headquarters for troops, churches and schoolrooms became hospitals for the wounded, and the hills thick with pine and meadows lush with grass became hallowed ground with the blood of the dead and dying.</p> 415<p>The years of Reconstruction forged a steel in the hearts of surviving men and women for a new life, a new country. I find myself fascinated by what they accomplished in the face of overwhelming odds. And remember, ultimately, so much good came from this time of immense suffering in our history too. So many advances in medicine, botany, mental health and social justice, to name a few.</p> 416<p>All of this is what inspired me to write <em>To Win Her Favorâ</em>along with the magnificent thoroughbred history of Belle Meade Plantation, and a handsome Irishman who strolled into my imagination one day. : )</p> 417<p><strong><span style="color: #ff6600;">What’s a favorite time in history <em>you</em> like to read about or study? </span></strong></p> 418<p style="text-align: left;">Tammy</p> 419<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://warrenpl.org" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ff6600;">Warren County, I’m coming your way tonight!</span></a><br /> 420<a href="http://warrenpl.org" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ff6600;">Click for more details</span></a></p> 421<p style="text-align: left;">
421<a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/IBL-TWHF-Litfuse.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5405" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/IBL-TWHF-Litfuse.png?resize=427%2C496" alt="IBL TWHF Litfuse" width="427" height="496" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/IBL-TWHF-Litfuse.png?w=427&ssl=1 427w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/IBL-TWHF-Litfuse.png?resize=215%2C250&ssl=1 215w" sizes="(max-width: 427px) 100vw, 427px" loading="lazy" /></a></p> 422`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Screen-Shot-2015-05-05-at-9.15.29-AM.png?resize=496%2C616",tags:["History"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/a-chance-to-win-to-win-her-favor-and-a-kindle-fire/"},{slug:"pie-safes-and-other-vanishing-treasures",title:"Pie safes and other vanishing treasures",date:"2015-04-21",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"Are your pies safe? Are you sure ? Have you checked them lately? The only way to be completely certain, of course, is put them inâ¦a pie safe. Donât you just love that someone crafted a piece of furniture to keep piesâ¦",content:`<p>Are your pies safe? Are you <em>sure</em>? Have you checked them lately?</p> 423<p><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" class=" wp-image-5185 size-medium alignright" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Screen-Shot-2015-04-14-at-11.29.04-AM-189x250.png?resize=189%2C250" alt="Screen Shot 2015-04-14 at 11.29.04 AM" width="189" height="250" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Screen-Shot-2015-04-14-at-11.29.04-AM.png?resize=189%2C250&ssl=1 189w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Screen-Shot-2015-04-14-at-11.29.04-AM.png?w=266&ssl=1 266w" sizes="(max-width: 189px) 100vw, 189px" loading="lazy" /></p> 424<p>The  only way to be completely certain, of course, is put them inâ¦a pie safe.</p> 425<p>Don’t you just love that someone crafted a piece of furniture to keep pies <em>safe</em>? I wish I had one of these lovely pieces of furniture. The one to the right is a reproduction made by an Amish gentleman.</p> 426<p>Below are pie safes from the 1800s. Be still my beating heart…</p> 427<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Screen-Shot-2015-04-14-at-11.29.14-AM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-5186" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Screen-Shot-2015-04-14-at-11.29.14-AM-750x155.png?resize=500%2C103" alt="Screen Shot 2015-04-14 at 11.29.14 AM" width="500" height="103" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Screen-Shot-2015-04-14-at-11.29.14-AM.png?resize=750%2C155&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Screen-Shot-2015-04-14-at-11.29.14-AM.png?resize=250%2C52&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Screen-Shot-2015-04-14-at-11.29.14-AM.png?w=986&
427ssl=1 986w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></a></p> 428<p>I love the detail work on the tin panels.</p> 429<p>Here are some quick historical facts on pie safes:</p> 430<ul> 431<li>Long before refrigerators and ice boxes, pie safes stored baked goods, flour and other kitchen items.</li> 432<li>Pie safes are constructed of wood native to that area of the country (pine was particularly popular in the South, of course), and they vary insize and shape. But they all have holes or shelves with small air holes.</li> 433<li>The pie cabinet (or safe) most likely originated in 16th century Europe and was introduced to the U.S. by German immigrants who came to Pennsylvania in the 1800s and soon became known as the Pennsylvania Dutch. 434<p><div id="attachment_5187" style="width: 369px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-5187" class="wp-image-5187" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Screen-Shot-2015-04-14-at-11.29.25-AM.png?resize=359%2C424" alt="Screen Shot 2015-04-14 at 11.29.25 AM" width="359" height="424" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Screen-Shot-2015-04-14-at-11.29.25-AM.png?w=477&ssl=1 477w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Screen-Shot-2015-04-14-at-11.29.25-AM.png?resize=211%2C250&ssl=1 211w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 359px) 100vw, 359px" /><p id="caption-attachment-5187" class="wp-caption-text">circa 1850</p></div></li> 435<li>The pie safe was generally kept as far from the wood stove as possible to keep the food safe from too much heat. In some homes, it might have been kept on the back porch next to the dry sink (to benefit from the cooler air circulating).</li> 436<li>Pie safes have screening or punched tin designs in the top, sides, doors, or a combination of these. The screen allowed the baked goods to have ventilation while keeping rodents, flies, and hungry Judy Millers at bay. The ventilation also helped the food stay cooler and kept it from molding as easily.</li> 437</ul> 438<div id="attachment_5188" style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Screen-Shot-2015-04-14-at-11.29.35-AM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-5188" class="wp-image-5188" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Screen-Shot-2015-04-14-at-11.29.35-AM-750x200.png?resize=500%2C133" alt="Screen Shot 2015-04-14 at 11.29.35 AM" width="500" height="133" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Screen-Shot-2015-04-14-at-11.29.35-AM.png?resize=750%2C200&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Screen-Shot-2015-04-14-at-11.29.35-AM.png?resize=250%2C67&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Screen-Shot-2015-04-14-at-11.29.35-AM.png?w=1011&
438ssl=1 1011w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-5188" class="wp-caption-text">I wish this could live at my house.</p></div> 439<p> </p> 440<ul> 441<li>The punched tin started with each hole being punched by the craftsman individually, then moved to nails put in boards in certain patterns and used to punch the holes, then on to “punching the tin” mechanically, all at one time.</li> 442<li>Some of the “tin patterns” were fashioned in the likeness of well known people at the time, such as presidents of the countryââor a beloved favorite author (not really).</li> 443<li>Some kitchen safes have tops that open upward while others have a combination of doors and drawers.</li> 444</ul> 445<p>Owning an antique pie safe can mean rolling out some major dough (you knew that was coming, right, Patti Jo?), but there are many places that sell reproductions for much less.</p> 446<p>And now…what would a post about pie safes be without a <em>pie</em>?</p> 447<p>Here’s a pie I made recently, along with the recipe. Hope you enjoy! Let me know if you make it.</p> 448<p> </p> 449<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Screen-Shot-2015-04-14-at-11.29.48-AM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-5189" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Screen-Shot-2015-04-14-at-11.29.48-AM-750x513.png?resize=425%2C291" alt="Screen Shot 2015-04-14 at 11.29.48 AM" width="425" height="291" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Screen-Shot-2015-04-14-at-11.29.48-AM.png?resize=750%2C513&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Screen-Shot-2015-04-14-at-11.29.48-AM.png?resize=250%2C171&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Screen-Shot-2015-04-14-at-11.29.48-AM.png?resize=350%2C240&ssl=1 350w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Screen-Shot-2015-04-14-at-11.29.48-AM.png?w=981&ssl=1 981w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 425px) 100vw, 425px" /></a></p> 450<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Old-Fashioned Chocolate Cream Pie<br /> 451</strong>(oh, so good!)</p> 452<p>1 baked 9-inch Pie Crust<br /> 4531 Cup Sugar<br /> 4544 Tablespoons plain flour<br /> 455Dash of Salt<br /> 4563 Tablespoons Baking Cocoa<br /> 4572 Cups Milk<br /> 4581/3 cup Milk<br /> 4593 Eggs, Separated (yolks well beaten, keep the whites for the meringue)<br /> 4601 Tsp Vanilla<br /> 4611 Tablespoon Butter</p> 462<p>Bake pie crust till golden brown (according to your recipe or instructions on the package). Prick the bottom and sides (and use pie weights, if you want) to keep the crust from shrinking.</p> 463<p>Heat 2 cups milk to almost boiling. Mix sugar, flour, salt, and cocoa. Stir dry mixture into 1/3 cup cold milk until moistened. Add beaten egg yolks. Add entire mixture to hot milk and cook until thickened, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and add the vanilla and the butter. Remove from burner and let cool while you prepare the meringue. Oh yum! Honestly, this pudding is good enough to eat right now. Straight from the pan!</p> 464<p>Basic Meringue:<br /> 4653 egg whites (from above)<br /> 466Dash of salt<br /> 4671/4 tsp cream of tartar<br /> 4686 Tablespoons sugar</p> 469<p>Beat egg whites, salt and cream of tartar until stiff but not dry. Gradually add sugar; beat after each addition until sugar is partially dissolved. Add pudding to cooled pie shell and top with meringue making sure the meringue touches the sides of the pie crust to prevent shrinking. Broil in 325 degree oven until lightly golden brown (5-10 minutes).</p> 470<p>I also baked two <a href="https://www.facebook.com/tamera.alexander/photos/a.165308380222600.43565.142700165816755/832786176808147/?type=1&theater" target="_blank">Buttermilk Pies</a> for my son’s birthday recently. Oh, I love making that pie. Pure comfort and joy with every stir.</p> 471<p><span style="color: #0000ff;"><strong>So tell me, do you own a pie safe? I’d love to hear about it. And see it (<a style="color: #0000ff;" href="https://www.facebook.com/tamera.alexander?ref=hl" target="_blank">please post a pic on my FB page</a>). What’s the last kind of pie you ate and/or baked? Have a favorite?</strong></span></p> 472<p>Tammy</p> 473<p> </p> 474<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/giveaway/show/130770-to-win-her-favor" target="_blank">Win 1 of 10 copies of </a><em><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/giveaway/show/130770-to-win-her-favor" target="_blank">To Win Her Favor</a><br /> 475</em>the second standalone novel in the Belle Meade Plantation series<br /> 476Releases May 12</p> 477<p><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/giveaway/show/130770-to-win-her-favor" target="_blank"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5260" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/w
477p-content/uploads/2015/04/TWHFGoodreadsGiveaway-copy.png?resize=576%2C396" alt="TWHFGoodreadsGiveaway copy" width="576" height="396" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/TWHFGoodreadsGiveaway-copy.png?w=576&ssl=1 576w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/TWHFGoodreadsGiveaway-copy.png?resize=250%2C172&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/TWHFGoodreadsGiveaway-copy.png?resize=350%2C240&ssl=1 350w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 576px) 100vw, 576px" /></a></p> 478`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Screen-Shot-2015-04-14-at-11.29.04-AM-189x250.png?resize=189%2C250",tags:["Assorted & Sundry"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/pie-safes-and-other-vanishing-treasures/"},{slug:"crashing-can-be-such-fun-much-like-giveaways",title:"Crashing can be such fun (much like giveaways)!",date:"2015-04-07",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"I crashed a book club last week, and oh what fun it was! I was supposed to Skype with this group of sweet gals at 7PM but since the hostess didnât live that far from me, I decided to surprise them instead. So I parkedâ¦",content:`<p>I crashed a book club last week, and oh what fun it was!</p> 479<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Screen-Shot-2015-04-06-at-10.39.32-PM.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5048" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Screen-Shot-2015-04-06-at-10.39.32-PM.jpg?resize=640%2C513" alt="Screen Shot 2015-04-06 at 10.39.32 PM" width="640" height="513" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Screen-Shot-2015-04-06-at-10.39.32-PM.jpg?w=640&ssl=1 640w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Screen-Shot-2015-04-06-at-10.39.32-PM.jpg?resize=250%2C200&ssl=1 250w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /></a></p> 480<p>I was supposed to Skype with this group of sweet gals at 7PM but since the hostess didn’t live that far from me, I decided to surprise them instead. So I parked down the street and called in at 7PM as plannedâas I was walking up the sidewalk to the house.</p> 481<p>The husband answered the door, and I put my hand over the phone and asked him if a book club was meeting there. He eyed me a little funny and said, “Yes…” When I told him I was the author of the book they were discussing, he quickly joined in the fun and let me in. So I walked around the corner to the group while still speaking with them on the phone. What fun!</p> 482<p><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-5049" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Screen-Shot-2015-04-06-at-10.47.35-PM.jpg?resize=316%2C640" alt="Screen Shot 2015-04-06 at 10.47.35 PM" width="316" height="640" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Screen-Shot-2015-04-06-at-10.47.35-PM.jpg?w=316&ssl=1 316w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Screen-Shot-2015-04-06-at-10.47.35-PM.jpg?resize=123%2C250&ssl=1 123w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 316px) 100vw, 316px" /></p> 483<p style="text-align: center;"><em>I have NO idea what I was doing with my hands. </em><br /> 484<em>But I’m fairly sure I couldn’t talk if they were tied.</em></p> 485<p><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class=" wp-image-5051 alignright" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/ABeautySoRareSM.jpg?resize=178%2C275" alt="ABeautySoRareSM" width="178" height="275" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/ABeautySoRareSM.jpg?w=415&ssl=1 415w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/ABeautySoRareSM.jpg?resize=162%2C250&ssl=1 162w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 178px) 100vw, 178px" /></p> 486<p>It was such a joy to meet with these ladies, to hear their thoughts on <em>A Beauty So Rare</em>, to laugh and get to know each other, and to share our love for the Lord Jesus. <em>Thank you, Melody Moore and the rest of you sweet ladies, for welcoming me so warmly to your meeting last week.</em></p> 487<p>I also loved that everyone was wearing pink in honor of Eleanor, the heroine in <em>A Beauty So Rare</em>. And all the recipes from the book that Melody (the hostess) made…delicious! Totally made my week.</p> 488<p><strong><span style="color: #333399;">When’s the last time someone really surprised <em>you</em>? And what fun activities does your book club participate in? Do you ever Skype with authors?</span></strong></p> 489<p>Tammy</p> 490<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/giveaway/show/130770-to-win-her-favor" target="_blank">Click for a chance to win my new release</a></p> 491<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/giveaway/show/130770-to-win-her-favor" target="_blank"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-5056" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/w
491p-content/uploads/2015/04/Screen-Shot-2015-04-06-at-11.18.08-PM.jpg?resize=254%2C406" alt="Screen Shot 2015-04-06 at 11.18.08 PM" width="254" height="406" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Screen-Shot-2015-04-06-at-11.18.08-PM.jpg?w=400&ssl=1 400w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Screen-Shot-2015-04-06-at-11.18.08-PM.jpg?resize=156%2C250&ssl=1 156w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 254px) 100vw, 254px" /></a></p> 492<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333399;"><a href="http://www.tameraalexander.com/upcomingreleases.html" target="_blank"><strong>Find out more about </strong><em><strong>To Win Her Favor</strong><br /> 493</em><strong>Releases May 12</strong></a></span></p> 494`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Screen-Shot-2015-04-06-at-10.39.32-PM.jpg?resize=640%2C513",tags:["Assorted & Sundry"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/crashing-can-be-such-fun-much-like-giveaways/"},{slug:"lovely-budapest-hungary-vienna-austria",title:"Lovely Budapest, Hungary & Vienna, Austria",date:"2015-03-17",category:"Behind the Story",excerpt:"Last week, my husband and I had the wonderful opportunity to travel to Budapest and Vienna with 29 Belmont MBA students. It was a funâand mostly enjoyable (more on that below)âweek. Here are some glimpses⦠The firstâ¦",content:`<p>Last week, my husband and I had the wonderful opportunity to travel to Budapest and Vienna with 29 Belmont MBA students. It was a funâand <em>mostly</em> enjoyable (more on that below)âweek.</p> 495<p>Here are some glimpses…</p> 496<p><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4802" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5455.jpg?resize=640%2C480" alt="IMG_5455" width="640" height="480" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5455.jpg?w=640&ssl=1 640w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5455.jpg?resize=250%2C188&ssl=1 250w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /></p> 497<p style="text-align: center;">The first evening upon our arrival, we enjoyed a delicious dinner cruise on the Danube River. Isn’t the Hungarian Parliament Building (circa 1904) stunning at night?</p> 498<p> </p> 499<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5511.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4804" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5511.jpg?resize=585%2C640" alt="IMG_5511" width="585" height="640" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5511.jpg?w=585&ssl=1 585w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5511.jpg?resize=229%2C250&ssl=1 229w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 585px) 100vw, 585px" /></a></p> 500<p style="text-align: center;">The next day, we explored the breathtaking city of Budapest. See the same building behind us (from the night before)?</p> 501<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5520.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4805" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5520.jpg?resize=454%2C640" alt="IMG_5520" width="454" height="640" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5520.jpg?w=454&ssl=1 454w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5520.jpg?resize=177%2C250&ssl=1 177w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 454px) 100vw, 454px" /></a></p> 502<p style="text-align: center;">I love doors! I snapped this pic (and the next ones) while strolling through Budapest.</p> 503<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5523.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4806" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/w
503p-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5523.jpg?resize=502%2C640" alt="IMG_5523" width="502" height="640" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5523.jpg?w=502&ssl=1 502w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5523.jpg?resize=196%2C250&ssl=1 196w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 502px) 100vw, 502px" /></a></p> 504<p> </p> 505<p style="text-align: center;">I always wonder about all the people who’ve walked through these doors. Their lives, their pursuits…</p> 506<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5524.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4807" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5524.jpg?resize=515%2C640" alt="IMG_5524" width="515" height="640" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5524.jpg?w=515&ssl=1 515w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5524.jpg?resize=201%2C250&ssl=1 201w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 515px) 100vw, 515px" /></a></p> 507<p> </p> 508<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5527.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4808" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5527.jpg?resize=491%2C640" alt="IMG_5527" width="491" height="640" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5527.jpg?w=491&ssl=1 491w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5527.jpg?resize=192%2C250&ssl=1 192w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 491px) 100vw, 491px" /></a></p> 509<p>My main “souvenir” when traveling these days is taking pictures of doors and then framing them in those multiple picture frames. It’s a great way to remember a trip. Are you a door lover, too?</p> 510<p>Next, some of the food…</p> 511<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5550_2.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4810" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5550_2.jpg?resize=480%2C640" alt="IMG_5550_2" width="480" height="640" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5550_2.jpg?w=480&ssl=1 480w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5550_2.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" /></a></p> 512<p>What trip to Hungary would be complete without traditional Hungarian goulash? Don’t you love the little “bread hats” the goulash is served with?</p> 513<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5553.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4811" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5553.jpg?resize=480%2C640" alt="IMG_5553" width="480" height="640" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5553.jpg?w=480&ssl=1 480w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5553.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" /></a></p> 514<p style="text-align: center;"> Talk about comfort food. So delicious!</p> 515<p style="text-align: left;">But wait! The best is yet to come…</p> 516<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5554.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4812" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5554.jpg?resize=480%2C640" alt="IMG_5554" width="480" height="640" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/w
516p-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5554.jpg?w=480&ssl=1 480w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5554.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" /></a></p> 517<p>We didn’t happen upon this little treasure of a restaurant by chance. I follow <a href="http://www.kevinandamanda.com" target="_blank">Kevin and Amanda’s blog</a> (do you?), and when Amanda recently visited Budapest, she blogged about this little gemâGelarto Rosa. So…</p> 518<p>We scouted it out and oh, was it ever worth it!</p> 519<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5560.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4813" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5560.jpg?resize=480%2C640" alt="IMG_5560" width="480" height="640" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5560.jpg?w=480&ssl=1 480w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5560.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" /></a></p> 520<p style="text-align: center;">The gelato is shaped beautifully, don’t you think? Almost too pretty to eat. Somehow, though, we managed. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/GelartoRosa?rf=224605200888990" target="_blank">Gelarto Rosa</a> is located at the corner of St. Stephenâs Basilica. So if ever you’re in Budapest . . .</p> 521<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5562.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4814" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5562.jpg?resize=480%2C640" alt="IMG_5562" width="480" height="640" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5562.jpg?w=480&ssl=1 480w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5562.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" /></a></p> 522<p style="text-align: center;">A traveling buddy, Francis Daniel, stuck with good ol’ plain chocolate and said it was good ol’ plain <em>delicious</em>.</p> 523<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5574.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4817" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5574.jpg?resize=640%2C480" alt="IMG_5574" width="640" height="480" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5574.jpg?w=640&ssl=1 640w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5574.jpg?resize=250%2C188&ssl=1 250w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /></a></p> 524<p style="text-align: center;">After Budapest, we visited Vienna, Austria for four days. This city is nothing short of spectacular!</p> 525<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5577.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4818" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5577.jpg?resize=640%2C480" alt="IMG_5577" width="640" height="480" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5577.jpg?w=640&ssl=1 640w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5577.jpg?resize=250%2C188&ssl=1 250w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /></a></p> 526<p style="text-align: center;">Our first evening, we did a walking tour of the city, and I think the buildings were even more beautiful all lit up!</p> 527<p style="text-align: center;">
527<a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5592.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4815" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5592.jpg?resize=640%2C480" alt="IMG_5592" width="640" height="480" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5592.jpg?w=640&ssl=1 640w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5592.jpg?resize=250%2C188&ssl=1 250w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /></a>Here we are (Joe, Francis Daniel and me) at Hotel Sacher in Vienna enjoying their famous Sacher Torte. It’s very good but you <em>must</em> eat it with cream (as we were told). Because if you don’t, it can be a tad dry. Still, none of us look like we’re complaining, do we? ; }</p> 528<p style="text-align: left;">It was a great trip all in all, as I said above, butâ¦</p> 529<p style="text-align: left;">One “less than enjoyable” incident was when Joe woke up early one morning in Vienna with excruciating pain. When the pain wouldn’t subside, I called an ambulance. Long story short, he has kidney stones and was admitted to the hospital for two days. Not exactly part of our plan, but we’re so grateful for the medical attention he received. (He already visited our doctor here in Nashville yesterday and will be undergoing further treatment soon. But he sure feels a lot better than he did last week.)</p> 530<p style="text-align: left;">I enjoy traveling but it was <em>especially</em> nice to get back home late Sunday evening. To paraphrase Dorothy from Kansas, there’s no place like it.</p> 531<p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="color: #0000ff;">What’s a place you’ve always dreamed of visiting? Or perhaps a place you’ve <em>already</em>
531 visited that holds special memories? Did your trip have any “unexpected” incidents? </span></strong></p> 532<p style="text-align: left;">Happy St. Patrick’s Day, btw. <em><span style="color: #008000;">Hope you’re wearing green!</span></em></p> 533<p style="text-align: left;">Tammy</p> 534<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #ff0000;"><a style="color: #ff0000;" href="http://tameraalexander.blogspot.com/2015/03/library-builder-giveaway-20-books-and.html" target="_blank"><strong>Want to win 20+ books? Enter today!</strong></a></span></p> 535<div id="attachment_4852" style="width: 648px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://tameraalexander.blogspot.com/2015/03/library-builder-giveaway-20-books-and.html"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-4852" class="wp-image-4852" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/LibraryBuilderGiveawayMar20151-750x568.png?resize=638%2C483" alt="LibraryBuilderGiveawayMar2015" width="638" height="483" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/LibraryBuilderGiveawayMar20151.png?resize=750%2C568&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/LibraryBuilderGiveawayMar20151.png?resize=250%2C189&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/LibraryBuilderGiveawayMar20151.png?w=1598&ssl=1 1598w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 638px) 100vw, 638px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-4852" class="wp-caption-text">Click to see the list of all the books by title and author</p></div> 536<p style="text-align: center;"> 537<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><a href="http://tameraalexander.blogspot.com/2015/03/library-builder-giveaway-20-books-and.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ff0000;">Enter to win</span></a></strong></p> 538<p style="text-align: center;">We so wanted to see the Lipizzaner Stallions at the Spanish Riding School of Vienna while there, but they weren’t out. You can catch a glimpse of them here. Spectacular! Don’t you love how they jump and kick!</p> 539<p><iframe loading="lazy" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gogIZALj7WY" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> 540`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_5455.jpg?resize=640%2C480",tags:["Assorted & Sundry","History"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/lovely-budapest-hungary-vienna-austria/"},{slug:"don-t-judge-a-book-by-its",title:"Donât judge a book by its . . .",date:"2015-03-03",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"Coverâ¦right? But donât we do just that? Of course we do. Thatâs why publishers spend so much time and money attempting to design a cover that will grab the reader. That will entice us to pick up the book and take aâ¦",content:`<p>Cover…right? But don’t we do just that? <a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Poster1.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignright wp-image-4688" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Poster1.png?resize=297%2C463" alt="Poster1" width="297" height="463" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Poster1.png?w=394&ssl=1 394w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Poster1.png?resize=160%2C250&ssl=1 160w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 297px) 100vw, 297px" /></a></p> 541<p>Of course we do.</p> 542<p>That’s why publishers spend <em>so</em> much time and money attempting to design a cover that will grab the reader. That will entice us to pick up the book and take a look.</p> 543<p>I’ve got three books coming out this year. Two here in the U.S. and one in Germany. And one of them is a novella, which I really enjoyed writing.</p> 544<p><a href="http://www.tameraalexander.com/upcomingreleases.html" target="_blank"><em>To Mend a Dream</em></a> (the novella) is part of a Southern collection with fellow authors Shelley Shepard Gray, Dorothy Love, and Elizabeth Musser. Have you read any of their books yet? Marvelous writers, all.</p> 545<p>Here’s the cover for our Southern novella collection (July 2015) that’s complete with scrumptious Southern desserts straight from the stories…</p> 546<p> </p> 547<p style="text-align: center;"> 548<p style="text-align: center;">
548<a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/ATFM1.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-4683" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/ATFM1-499x750.png?resize=258%2C387" alt="ATFM1" width="258" height="387" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/ATFM1.png?resize=499%2C750&ssl=1 499w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/ATFM1.png?resize=166%2C250&ssl=1 166w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/ATFM1.png?w=500&ssl=1 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 258px) 100vw, 258px" /></a><em><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00PWOH8S6/tameralexa-20" target="_blank">Among the Fair Magnolias</a> final cover</em></p> 549<p style="text-align: left;">If you click on the title link above, you’ll see one of the earlier versions of this cover. Similar to this one, but the final cover (pictured above) has far more detail. And also has magnolias, which is a nice tie-in with the title.</p> 550<p style="text-align: left;">I’m a fan of path pictures, per se, so I really liked the concept for<em> Among the Fair Magnolias</em>. The dress is a tad too Cinderella-esque for me, personally, but the final touches that were added (and also the removal of some <em>squigglies</em> by her head) help draw the eye to the path and gives the cover movement, which is also nice.</p> 551<p><em>From a Distance</em> releases this month in Germany, and I love the cover that Christian Heinritz (art designer with Francke, my German publisher) designed. Perfect for that audience.</p> 552<p> </p> 553<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/GermanFAD1.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-4686" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/GermanFAD1.png?resize=284%2C426" alt="GermanFAD1" width="284" height="426" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/GermanFAD1.png?w=369&ssl=1 369w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/GermanFAD1.png?resize=167%2C250&ssl=1 167w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 284px) 100vw, 284px" /></a></p> 554<p style="text-align: center;"><em>The Photo of my Life<br /> 555(From a Distance</em> in German)</p> 556<p style="text-align: center;">The original cover in the U.S.</p> 557<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/FAD-cover1.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-4685" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/FAD-cover1.png?resize=264%2C401" alt="FAD cover1" width="264" height="401" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/FAD-cover1.png?w=310&ssl=1 310w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/FAD-cover1.png?resize=165%2C250&ssl=1 165w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 264px) 100vw, 264px" /></a></p> 558<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Which do you prefer? Don’t be shy. You can be honest. <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f642.png" alt="ð" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" loading="lazy" /></strong></p> 559<p style="text-align: left;">Here I am with Christian last summer in Germany. We’re holding <em>The Inheritance</em> (German edition) with the cover he also designed. I <em>adore</em> that cover. He’s one talented man. (And quite entertaining, huh, Lynn?)</p> 560<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Christian1.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-4684" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Christian1.png?resize=263%2C349" alt="Christian1" width="263" height="349" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/w
560p-content/uploads/2015/03/Christian1.png?w=365&ssl=1 365w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Christian1.png?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 263px) 100vw, 263px" /></a></p> 561<p style="text-align: left;">Finally, here’s the front and back cover of<a href="http://www.tameraalexander.com/upcomingreleases.html" target="_blank"><em> To Win Her Favor</em></a>, my May release and the second Belle Meade Plantation novel.</p> 562<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/TWHF-backfront-ebook-presale1.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-4689" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/TWHF-backfront-ebook-presale1.png?resize=599%2C430" alt="TWHF backfront ebook presale1" width="599" height="430" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/TWHF-backfront-ebook-presale1.png?w=655&ssl=1 655w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/TWHF-backfront-ebook-presale1.png?resize=250%2C179&ssl=1 250w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, 599px" /></a></p> 563<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800000;"><em><strong>Cover trivia:<br /> 564</strong></em></span>The model on <em>To Win Her Favor</em> is also a horse trainer herself. And the horse on the coverâ¦is hers!</p> 565<p>I appreciate the warmth of this cover and am so grateful to HCCP for the “painterly effect” they added. Horses play a prominent role in the Belle Meade Plantation novels, and especially in <em><a href="http://www.tameraalexander.com/upcomingreleases.html" target="_blank">To Win Her Favor</a>. </em>And I’m thrilled that Bourbon Belle, the heroine’s horse in the novel, is pictured on the cover.</p> 566<p>So, while we’re taught at a young age <em>not</em> to judge a book by its cover, I think for the most part that lesson falls on deaf ears, don’t you? And with good reason. After all, we’re visual. We love to “see” a story as well as read one.</p> 567<p><span style="color: #0000ff;"><strong>Have you ever chosen to start reading a book based solely on the cover? Do you remember which book that was and what drew you to pick it up? What’s your favorite kind of cover? Landscape scenes? Characters? Characters shown with only partial faces? Characters shown only from the back? Heroes? Heroines? Both? Do tell!</strong></span></p> 568<p>Tammy</p> 569<p> </p> 570<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #ff0000;"><strong><a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.goodreads.com/giveaway/show/125881-a-lasting-impression" target="_blank">Enter to win my Goodreads Giveaway</a></strong></span></p> 571<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Goodreads1.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-4687" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Goodreads1-750x474.png?resize=460%2C291" alt="Goodreads1" width="460" height="291" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Goodreads1.png?resize=750%2C474&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Goodreads1.png?resize=250%2C158&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Goodreads1.png?w=988&ssl=1 988w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 460px) 100vw, 460px" /></a></p> 572<p> </p> 573`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Poster1.png?resize=297%2C463",tags:["Assorted & Sundry"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/dont-judge-a-book-by-its/"},{slug:"moments-that-stay-with-you",title:"Moments that stay with you",date:"2015-02-17",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"Think about one of your favorite moments from a movie, TV show, or novel. Got it? Hold onto it for just a second. Why is it a favorite, do you think? Most likely, itâs because itâs evocative. It makes you laugh. Or cry.â¦",content:`<p>Think about one of your favorite moments from a movie, TV show, or novel. Got it? Hold onto it for just a second.</p> 574<p><em>Why</em> is it a favorite, do you think?</p> 575<p>Most likely, it’s because it’s evocative. It makes you laugh. Or cry. Or recall a memorable event in your life. Or maybe someone special to you.</p> 576<p>These moments touch us because they tap into universal truths. A truth that applies to you no matter who you are. A truth that reaches to your core. Such asâ¦</p> 577<p><em><span style="color: #3366ff;"> The need to be loved.</span></em></p> 578<p><em><span style="color: #3366ff;"> The desire to feel special.</span></em></p> 579<p><em><span style="color: #3366ff;"> The longing to be accepted.</span></em></p> 580<p><em><span style="color: #3366ff;"> The instinct to avoid pain or embarrassment.</span></em></p> 581<p><em><span style="color: #3366ff;"> The desire for connection.</span></em></p> 582<p>Here are a handful of my favorite moments from different mediums. Do we have any in common?</p> 583<p><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nEJKLKKO0uY" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> 584<p>The look on Willoughby’s face when he sees Marianne before she sees him is heartbreaking. Then the way the light fades from Marianne’s eyes when she realizes whatever there was between them is now gone. I feel her rejection. I identify with the sting of being the one <em>not</em> chosen. Both as a young girl and as a grown up.</p> 585<p>Next, I adore the humor in this scene!</p> 586<p><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yRPwDJWhqis" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> 587<p>The way he’s known who she is and yet she’s been in the dark about his real identity. We know she’s going to find out, but we keep watching to see how she does it, and then how she’s going to react. The looks they give each other, the subtle vulnerability and longing. Ah… So good.</p> 588<p>Next, I laughed out loud at this movie so many times…<br /> 589(This is a long clip. Feel free to stop after the first couple of minutes. Or not.)</p> 590<p><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/D0HFaG-5DSE" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> 591<p>I. Love. That. Horse! And the hero with the horse. Their competition. Their shared terror. LOL. I love the innocence of the heroine, her excitement about experiencing something new and different. Yet I relate to her fear of the unknown too. Such a great movie!</p> 592<p>And lastly, here’s a snippet from a favorite novel. I bet you’ll recognize it.</p> 593<p><span style="color: #3366ff;">“…and she came walking in with a very queer expression of countenance, for there was a mixture of fun and fear, satisfaction and regret in it, which puzzled the family as much as did the roll of bills she laid before her mother, saying with a little choke in her voice, ‘That’s my contribution toward making Father comfortable and bringing him home!’</span></p> 594<p><span style="color: #3366ff;">‘My dear, where did you get it? Twenty-five dollars! Jo, I hope you haven’t done anything rash?’</span></p> 595<p><span style="color: #3366ff;">‘No, it’s mine honestly. I didn’t beg, borrow or steal it. I earned it, and I don’t think you’ll blame me, for I only sold what was my own.</span></p> 596<p><span style="color: #3366ff;">As she spoke, Jo took off her bonnet, and a general outcry arose, for all her abundant hair was cut short.</sp
596an></p> 597<p><span style="color: #3366ff;">‘Your hair! Your beautiful hair!’ ‘Oh, Jo, how could you? Your one beauty.'”</span></p> 598<p>For you movie lovers, here’s the 7-second clip:</p> 599<p><iframe loading="lazy" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/comb9TOnuBc" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> 600<p>Oh, the bond those sisters shared in <em>Little Women</em> by Louisa May Alcott. The way they fought yet were always “for” each other.</p> 601<p>And who can forget the scene <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=akDdVBb73zs" target="_blank">when Beth dies</a>? The pain of saying goodbye to those we love (deep universal truth). And how Beth says, “I don’t like being left behind.” Rip my heart out! Yet who among us can’t identify with that? The moment between Jo and Beth is so preciousâand shapes the rest of the sisters’ journeys.</p> 602<p>Just as these moments in our lives shape ours.</p> 603<p>Watching these snippets again brings a flood of emotion, even though I know what’s coming. Because universal truths resonate within us long after the story or novel is done.</p> 604<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Screen-Shot-2015-02-17-at-12.26.41-AM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class=" wp-image-4477 aligncenter" src="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Screen-Shot-2015-02-17-at-12.26.41-AM.png?resize=599%2C149" alt="Screen Shot 2015-02-17 at 12.26.41 AM" width="599" height="149" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Screen-Shot-2015-02-17-at-12.26.41-AM.png?w=1320&ssl=1 1320w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Screen-Shot-2015-02-17-at-12.26.41-AM.png?resize=250%2C62&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Screen-Shot-2015-02-17-at-12.26.41-AM.png?resize=750%2C186&ssl=1 750w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, 599px" /></a></p> 605<p style="text-align: left;">Tammy</p> 606<p>P.S. Another favorite moment, when you have the time, is <a href="<iframe%20width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cWZNZjSJco0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>" target="_blank">the last scene from Toy Story 3. </a>Oh, so poignant. Absolutely <em>perfect</em>. Did you cry like I did? <em>Sniff, sniff…</em></p> 607`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Screen-Shot-2015-02-17-at-12.26.41-AM.png?resize=599%2C149",tags:["Assorted & Sundry"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/moments-that-stay-with-you/"},{slug:"shutterbuggin",title:"Shutterbugginâ",date:"2015-02-03",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"â¦about the first woman photojournalist in Colorado Does it ever amaze you how quickly and painlessly we take pictures these days? Not that long ago it took fragile glass plates, tons of chemicals, and patience andâ¦",content:`<div id="attachment_4313" style="width: 220px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-4313" class="wp-image-4313" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/FromADistanceCover.jpg?resize=210%2C320" alt="From A Distance.indd" width="210" height="320" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/FromADistanceCover.jpg?w=289&ssl=1 289w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/FromADistanceCover.jpg?resize=164%2C250&ssl=1 164w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 210px) 100vw, 210px" /><p id="caption-attachment-4313" class="wp-caption-text">…about the first woman photojournalist in Colorado</p></div> 608<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>Does it ever amaze you how quickly and painlessly we take pictures these days? </strong></span></p> 609<p>Not that long ago it took fragile glass plates, tons of chemicals, and patience and courage galore just to capture one single photograph.</p> 610<p>I wrote about that painstaking process in<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.tameraalexander.com/books.html" target="_blank"> <i>From a Distance</i></a></span>. And sometimes, when Iâm snapping away with my phone, capturing pic after pic after pic with hardly a breath much less energy expended, Iâm reminded of all that Elizabeth Westbrook (the heroine in the novel) went through to capture just <em>one</em> single photograph.</p> 611<p>So quick! With deepest gratitude for all the photography pioneers who helped give us our current day phone camerasâ¦</p> 612<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>What are the last five pics youâve taken with your phone (or camera)? </strong></span></p> 613<p>Iâll share first:</p> 614<p><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-4307" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/w
614p-content/uploads/2015/02/IMG_5015-563x750.jpg?resize=400%2C533" alt="IMG_5015" width="400" height="533" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/IMG_5015.jpg?resize=563%2C750&ssl=1 563w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/IMG_5015.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/IMG_5015.jpg?w=2000&ssl=1 2000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px" /></p> 615<p>This was taken last week. I’m with sweet Sara Scott Camp, my “sister” from my college girl’s club. I haven’t seen Sara in over 30 years! I was about to get out of my car the other day to run into Starbucks, it was raining, when I turned and saw a couple racing to get into the car next to me. I waved for them to go first, and the next thing I know the woman is knocking on my window asking me, “Are you Tammy?” LOL! How Sara recognized me after all these years, I have no clue (but she looks just the same!). How wonderful it was to catch up with her again.</p> 616<p>I love how God weaves us in and out of each others’ lives, don’t you?</p> 617<p> </p> 618<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/IMG_4991.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-4308" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/IMG_4991-563x750.jpg?resize=400%2C533" alt="IMG_4991" width="400" height="533" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/IMG_4991.jpg?resize=563%2C750&ssl=1 563w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/IMG_4991.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/IMG_4991.jpg?w=2000&ssl=1 2000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px" /></a></p> 619<p>Also taken last week⦠I’m with Deanie Graves at Belle Meade Plantation. Deanie coordinated an event for 150 ladies from the annual National Sweet Potato Convention and asked me to come speak. It was such fun! Great group of ladies. And getting to know Deanie better (after emailing back and forth several times) was a special treat. (Thanks again, Deanie! That sweet potato sampler platter was awesome!)</p> 620<p> </p> 621<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/IMG_5011.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-4309" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/IMG_5011-563x750.jpg?resize=400%2C533" alt="IMG_5011" width="400" height="533" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/IMG_5011.jpg?resize=563%2C750&ssl=1 563w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/IMG_5011.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/IMG_5011.jpg?w=2000&ssl=1 2000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px" /></a></p> 622<p>This one’s weird, I know. But we had some work done on the dormer windows and I wanted to show Joe the progress. : }</p> 623<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/IMG_5022.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-4310" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/IMG_5022-563x750.jpg?resize=400%2C533" alt="IMG_5022" width="400" height="533" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/IMG_5022.jpg?resize=563%2C750&ssl=1 563w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/IMG_5022.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/IMG_5022.jpg?w=2000&
623ssl=1 2000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px" /></a></p> 624<p>The other night Kels and I went to see a late showing of Into the Woods (enjoyed it!), and the 9:30PM showing was totally packed. NOT! Everyone else apparently had enough sense to be home in bed at that hour.</p> 625<p> </p> 626<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/IMG_4989.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-4311" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/IMG_4989-563x750.jpg?resize=400%2C533" alt="IMG_4989" width="400" height="533" /></a>Finally, this is the desert served at the National Sweet Potato luncheon at Belle Meade the other day (see the pic with Deanie Graves above). Yummy Southern biscuits nestled with strawberries and cream. Oh. My. Goodness. SOOO yummy. I wanted to lick the bowl but somehow refrained.</p> 627<p>So tell me…</p> 628<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>What are the last five pictures <em>you’ve</em> taken? </strong></span></p> 629<p>Tammy</p> 630<h1 style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #0000ff;"><em>Free</em> Coffee<br /> 631Gotta love Chick-fil-A!</span></strong></h1> 632<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Screen-Shot-2015-02-02-at-10.51.21-PM.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-4312" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Screen-Shot-2015-02-02-at-10.51.21-PM-750x285.jpg?resize=400%2C152" alt="Screen Shot 2015-02-02 at 10.51.21 PM" width="400" height="152" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Screen-Shot-2015-02-02-at-10.51.21-PM.jpg?resize=750%2C285&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Screen-Shot-2015-02-02-at-10.51.21-PM.jpg?resize=250%2C95&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Screen-Shot-2015-02-02-at-10.51.21-PM.jpg?w=834&ssl=1 834w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px" /></a></p> 633<p> </p> 634<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #ff0000;"><a style="color: #ff0000;" href="http://chickfila.tumblr.com" target="_blank"><strong>Click for details</strong></a></span></p> 635<p style="text-align: center;">Have you tried their iced vanilla coffee yet? Be still my heart. Totally delicious.</p> 636<p style="text-align: center;">Let me know if you go!</p> 637<h3 style="text-align: center;">#goodmornings</h3> 638`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/FromADistanceCover.jpg?resize=210%2C320",tags:["Assorted & Sundry"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/shutterbuggin/"},{slug:"lightening-the-load",title:"Lightening the load",date:"2015-01-20",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"Joe and I spent this past weekend cleaning out the garage, going through boxes and boxes of precious memories and also lots of stuff collected through the years. It was both fun (especially when the kids joined us) andâ¦",content:`<p>Joe and I spent this past weekend cleaning out the garage, going through boxes and boxes of precious memories and also lots of <em>stuff</em> collected through the years. It was both fun (especially when the kids joined us) and exhausting. Then yesterday we took an Expedition-load to Good Will and it felt <em>sooooo</em> good.</p> 639<p>In our commitment to “lighten up,” I came across a box of items I packed shortly after Mom passed. Items from her bathroom drawers. Her makeup and hair products. I remember packing this box and even kept out several items at the time and used them. Then the rest I tucked away, knowing I shouldn’t keep it all yet not ready to throw it away.</p> 640<p>I came across thisâ¦</p> 641<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/image.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-4185" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/w
641p-content/uploads/2015/01/image-563x750.jpg?resize=450%2C600" alt="image" width="450" height="600" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/image.jpg?resize=563%2C750&ssl=1 563w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/image.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/image.jpg?w=2000&ssl=1 2000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px" /></a></p> 642<p>A little pill box…filled with Tic Tacs. <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f642.png" alt="ð" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" loading="lazy" /></p> 643<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/image1.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-4186" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/image1-563x750.jpg?resize=450%2C600" alt="image" width="450" height="600" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/image1.jpg?resize=563%2C750&ssl=1 563w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/image1.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/image1.jpg?w=2000&
643ssl=1 2000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px" /></a></p> 644<p>My mom always kept Tic Tacs nearby. Over the past five years, I’ve found them tucked in the side pockets of purses she used. But this is a little treasure I’ll keep on my bathroom vanity from now on. But um…if you’re ever in my bathroom and need a Tic Tac, don’t eat these. They might be a tad hard. ; )</p> 645<p>I also came across my old Monkees lunch box…</p> 646<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/image2.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-4187" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/image2-563x750.jpg?resize=450%2C600" alt="image" width="450" height="600" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/image2.jpg?resize=563%2C750&ssl=1 563w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/image2.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/image2.jpg?w=2000&
646ssl=1 2000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px" /></a></p> 647<p>No telling how many peanut butter and jelly sandwiches this lunchbox has seen. I wish I still had my favorite lunch box from elementary years⦠A Julia lunchbox. Does anybody else remember that TV show? I loved that show.</p> 648<p>Next, I found a picture of Gran (Joe’s Mom) with the kids (circa 1993)…</p> 649<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/image3.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-4188" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/image3-750x563.jpg?resize=450%2C338" alt="image" width="450" height="338" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/image3.jpg?resize=750%2C563&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/image3.jpg?resize=250%2C188&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/image3.jpg?w=2017&
649ssl=1 2017w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px" /></a></p> 650<p>Claudette died suddenly of a brain aneurysm in 1995. She was 58. So beautiful and so young (younger feeling now than it did to me back then, for sure). Hard to believe it’ll be 20 years ago this year since she left for Home.</p> 651<p>Last thing I’ll shareâ¦</p> 652<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/image4-e1421762293824.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-4189" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/image4-e1421762293824-563x750.jpg?resize=450%2C600" alt="image" width="450" height="600" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/image4-e1421762293824.jpg?resize=563%2C750&ssl=1 563w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/image4-e1421762293824.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/image4-e1421762293824.jpg?w=2000&
652ssl=1 2000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px" /></a></p> 653<p> </p> 654<p>Me with my older brother, Doug, circa 1966. Gotta love that bang action. And the bow tie is an especially nice touch, Doug.</p> 655<p>It’s fun looking back through the years but it’s also sobering. Not only to realize how swiftly the years fly, but also to see how quickly we accumulate stuff. Some of it precious, for sure. But still…stuff. Stuff that we’ll leave behind in a blink when we head Home. And Joe and I have more than our fair share. We’re working to change that, though. We’re working to lighten the load. And it feels good!</p> 656<p><b>What precious treasure have you found while cleaning out boxes or going through closets? Something from your childhood? From a loved one gone on? Something someone gave you that you forgot about? I’d love to know.</b></p> 657<p>Now to write for a while then finish going through a few more boxes…as I work to lighten the load.</p> 658<p>Blessings on your Tuesday,</p> 659<p>Tammy</p> 660`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/image-563x750.jpg?resize=450%2C600",tags:["Assorted & Sundry"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/lightening-the-load/"},{slug:"do-you-have-a-word-for-2015",title:"Do you have a word for 2015?",date:"2015-01-06",category:"Devotional Reflections",excerpt:"Have you ever asked God to give you a âwordâ for the year? I hadnât until I started meeting with a group of writers several years ago (Iâm waving to you, Robin!) and a few of them had done it. Ever since, weâve prayedâ¦",content:`<p><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignright wp-image-4058 " src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/Screen-Shot-2015-01-06-at-2.33.49-AM-250x177.png?resize=301%2C213" alt="Screen Shot 2015-01-06 at 2.33.49 AM" width="301" height="213" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/Screen-Shot-2015-01-06-at-2.33.49-AM.png?resize=250%2C177&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/Screen-Shot-2015-01-06-at-2.33.49-AM.png?resize=750%2C532&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/Screen-Shot-2015-01-06-at-2.33.49-AM.png?w=1086&ssl=1 1086w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 301px) 100vw, 301px" /><strong>Have you ever asked God to give you a “word” for the year?</strong></p> 661<p>I hadn’t until I started meeting with a group of writers several years ago (I’m waving to you, Robin!) and a few of them had done it. Ever since, we’ve prayed together asking the Lord to show us something specific he wants each of us to focus on for the year.</p> 662<p>I’ll be the first to admit that some years February has rolled around and I still haven’t heard anything. Maybe it’s that I’m not listening well enough (wouldn’t be the first time) or maybe God’s teaching me patience (again, not a first), but in recent days I’ve felt my focus being continually pulled back to eternity. I’ve felt the definite nudge to see situations, every aspect of my life, the decisions I make, the words I utter, in light of heaven, the believer’s forever home.</p> 663<p>So my word(s) for 2015 are <em>eternal perspective.</em></p> 664<p>As is the case every year, I <em>think</em> I have an idea of what God is saying to me and what he’ll teach me in coming months. But in the same breath, I also know how wrong I’ve been about guessing this in the past. Because God is so much bigger than I am. His love is so much wider and deeper. His presence is steadfast, unshakeable. And He sees my life from beginning to end. He resides in the moment of my birth just as certainly as he resides in the moment when I’ll breath my last here on earth. He’s Alpha and Omega. The beginning and the end. Untethered by time.</p> 665<p>So as 2015 unfolds, my renewed commitment is to see my life, this world and its people and events, through the lens of eternity. I want to love like Jesus loves. I want to thirst for Him in a way I haven’t before. I realize that in asking this I’m likely asking for trials and trouble. After all, those bring growth and maturity, right?</p> 666<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800000;">We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment.<br /> 667(Romans 5:3,4 NLT)</span></p> 668<p style="text-align: left;">I love that. Trials lead to <span style="color: #0000ff;">endurance</span>. Endurance to <span style="color: #0000ff;">character</span>. And character to <span style="color: #0000ff;">hope of salvation.</span> Which <span style="color: #0000ff;">doesn’t disappoint</span>.</p> 669<p style="text-align: left;">So while, yes, I’m determined to lose weight this year, to be more consistent in my Bible study, to be more disciplined, to write faster and better, to be a better wife and mother, along with numerous other goals, my continual prayer for this year will be for the Holy Spirit to give me more of an eternal perspective so that perhaps I’ll <em>this</em> life more to its fullestâ¦by viewing it more clearly through the lens of the next.</p> 670<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #0000ff;"><strong>Do you have a word for 2015? Is this concept new to you? </strong></span></p> 671<p style="text-align: left;">I know this runs more toward the personal, but I so look forward to you sharing.</p> 672<p style="text-align: left;">Much love,</p> 673<p style="text-align: left;">Tammy</p> 674<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B007JK5EVY/tameralexa-20" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #0000ff;"><em>To Whisper Her Name </em></span></strong></a><br /> 675<a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B007JK5EVY/tameralexa-20" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #0000ff;">$1.99 e-book </span></strong></a></p> 676<p style="text-align: center;">
676<a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/Screen-Shot-2015-01-06-at-2.22.40-AM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-4057" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/Screen-Shot-2015-01-06-at-2.22.40-AM-750x679.png?resize=450%2C407" alt="Screen Shot 2015-01-06 at 2.22.40 AM" width="450" height="407" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/Screen-Shot-2015-01-06-at-2.22.40-AM.png?resize=750%2C679&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/Screen-Shot-2015-01-06-at-2.22.40-AM.png?resize=250%2C226&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/Screen-Shot-2015-01-06-at-2.22.40-AM.png?w=1376&ssl=1 1376w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px" /></a></p> 677`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/Screen-Shot-2015-01-06-at-2.33.49-AM-250x177.png?resize=301%2C213",tags:["Faith"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/do-you-have-a-word-for-2015/"},{slug:"what-s-the-last-e-book-you-ve-downloaded",title:"Whatâs the last e-book youâve downloaded?",date:"2014-12-30",category:"Reader Community",excerpt:"Did you get a new e-reader for Christmas? If yes, what kind did you get? Me? Iâve still got my trusty Kindle PaperWhite, which I love and use nearly every day. Yes, I still love holding a ârealâ book. But theâ¦",content:`<p><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignright wp-image-3985" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/KindlePaperWhite-750x482.png?resize=291%2C187" alt="KindlePaperWhite" width="291" height="187" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/KindlePaperWhite.png?resize=750%2C482&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/KindlePaperWhite.png?resize=250%2C161&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/KindlePaperWhite.png?w=1306&ssl=1 1306w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 291px) 100vw, 291px" />Did you get a new e-reader for Christmas? If yes, what kind did you get?</p> 678<p>Me? I’ve still got my trusty Kindle PaperWhite, which I love and use nearly every day. Yes, I still love holding a “real” book. But the convenience of having so many books in the palm of your hand is just flat intoxicating and more than a little heady. : )</p> 679<p><strong>Just for fun, would you shareâ¦</strong></p> 680<p><span style="color: #0000ff;">The name of the last book you’ve downloaded? </span></p> 681<p><span style="color: #0000ff;">The author?</span></p> 682<p><span style="color: #0000ff;">Whether the book was free or discounted (the marketer in me is dying to know)?</span></p> 683<p><span style="color: #0000ff;">What prompted you to download the book? </span></p> 684<p><span style="color: #0000ff;">And finally, how many book you have on your e-reader.</span></p> 685<p>If you’re looking for some great discounted reads,<a href="http://r.harpercollinschristian.com/ebook-sale/fiction.html" target="_blank"> check out this fabulous sale on over 170 ebooks:</a></p> 686<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Screen-Shot-2014-12-16-at-12.43.56-AM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-3903" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Screen-Shot-2014-12-16-at-12.43.56-AM-750x447.png?resize=550%2C328" alt="Screen Shot 2014-12-16 at 12.43.56 AM" width="550" height="328" /></a><a href="http://r.harpercollinschristian.com/ebook-sale/fiction.html" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #ff0000;">Click for more</span></strong></a></p> 687<p>You’ll see several books from the authors of <em>Inspired by Life and Fiction </em>for $2.99 or less. I’ve already downloaded my fair share and can’t wait to dive in.</p> 688<p>Also, if you’re looking for a delicious New Year’s Eve dip recipe, look no further. This stuff is fabulous! It’s <a href="http://bellbucklecompanystore.com/pages/recipes" target="_blank">Captain Rodney’s Cheese Bake. </a></p> 689<p style="text-align: center;">
689<a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Screen-Shot-2014-12-29-at-11.28.27-PM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-3987" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Screen-Shot-2014-12-29-at-11.28.27-PM-600x750.png?resize=400%2C500" alt="Screen Shot 2014-12-29 at 11.28.27 PM" width="400" height="500" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Screen-Shot-2014-12-29-at-11.28.27-PM.png?resize=600%2C750&ssl=1 600w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Screen-Shot-2014-12-29-at-11.28.27-PM.png?resize=200%2C250&ssl=1 200w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Screen-Shot-2014-12-29-at-11.28.27-PM.png?w=1064&ssl=1 1064w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px" /></a>This is after we’d already started eating it, sorry. Should have taken a before pic but well… I forgot. It’s <em>so</em> good! <a href="http://bellbucklecompanystore.com/pages/recipes" target="_blank">Click for the recipe.</a></p> 690<p style="text-align: left;">If you have a favorite New Year’s Eve recipe (sweet or savory), I’d love to know. I’m a sucker for a new recipe.</p> 691<p style="text-align: left;">Blessings on your New Year’s Eve,</p> 692<p style="text-align: left;">Tammy</p> 693`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/KindlePaperWhite-750x482.png?resize=291%2C187",tags:["Assorted & Sundry","Reading","eBooks","eReaders"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/whats-the-last-e-book-youve-downloaded/"},{slug:"surgery-and-surprises",title:"Surgery and Surprises",date:"2014-12-16",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"A couple of life events occurred in the Alexander home recently⦠Last Friday, we experienced our first time to have a pet undergo surgery. Our sweet little Jack (12-lb silky terrier) is recuperating from a completelyâ¦",content:`<p><span style="color: #000080;"><strong>A couple of life events occurred in the Alexander home recently…</strong></span></p> 694<p>Last Friday, we experienced our first time to have a pet undergo surgery. Our sweet little Jack (12-lb silky terrier) is recuperating from a completely detached ACL, bless him. He has to wear the cone (yes, “of shame”) for two weeks with very limited movement/walking during that time, and after two weeks only gradual walking. He can’t run or jump for another ei<span class="text_exposed_show">ght weeks (!!). </span></p> 695<p><span class="text_exposed_show">After trying to barricade him in with pillows and other household objects, we broke down andâokay, I’m <em>slightly</em> embarrassed admitting thisâbought a playpen, the cheapest one we could find, to keep him corralled for the duration. And oh, is it a lifesaver!</span></p> 696<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/JackTornACL.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-3893" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/JackTornACL-750x450.png?resize=500%2C300" alt="JackTornACL" width="500" height="300" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/JackTornACL.png?resize=750%2C450&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/JackTornACL.png?resize=250%2C150&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/JackTornACL.png?w=1440&
696ssl=1 1440w" sizes="(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" loading="lazy" /></a></p> 697<p>He’s never stayed in a kennel and usually has “run of the house,” so a kennel would have added major anxiety for him on top of the pain. So this is a compromise of sorts, and a very new and unwelcome change for him. But he’s adjusting, sweet little guy.</p> 698<p>I’m so grateful for Dr. Mirae Wood and this surgery. Otherwise, Jack would have gone lame and eventually lost his right hind leg. <i class="_4-k1 img sp_towR99zc0gP sx_f35600"></i> We were playing ball on partial carpet/wood floor and he slipped and tore the ligament completely. <a class="_58cn" href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/feelsobad" data-ft="{"tn":"*N","type":104}">#FeelSOBad</a></p> 699<p>Lesson: Play ball ONLY on fully carpeted area. <em>Sigh</em>…</p> 700<p><span style="color: #333399;"><strong>Second life eventâ¦Â </strong></span></p> 701<p>Joe and I celebrated 30 years of marriage yesterday! And we were especially celebrating the “in sickness” part of our vows because we’re both a bit under the weather. Nothing serious, just a virus or cold or something. But we pretty much stayed in and watched TV and chatted and took care of Jack. It wasn’t half bad… <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f642.png" alt="ð" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" loading="lazy" /></p> 702<p>Then our kids, Kelsey and Kurt, brought over dinner for us. So sweet. And this after they threw us a SURPRISE 30th Wedding Anniversary party two weeks ago. It was such fun. Here are some glimpses with friends and family…</p> 703<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/AnniversaryPartyCollage1.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-3894" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/AnniversaryPartyCollage1-750x498.png?resize=682%2C453" alt="AnniversaryPartyCollage1" width="682" height="453" loading="lazy" /></a></p> 704<p>Kelsey put together a slide show of pictures through the years, so that’s what we’re watching in the bottom right pic above.</p> 705<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/AnniversaryPartyCollage2.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-3895" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/AnniversaryPartyCollage2-750x537.png?resize=639%2C458" alt="AnniversaryPartyCollage2" width="639" height="458" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/AnniversaryPartyCollage2.png?resize=750%2C537&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/AnniversaryPartyCollage2.png?resize=250%2C179&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/AnniversaryPartyCollage2.png?w=1924&ssl=1 1924w" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, 639px" loading="lazy" /></a></p> 706<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/AnniversaryPartyCollage3.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-3896" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/AnniversaryPartyCollage3-750x529.png?resize=659%2C465" alt="AnniversaryPartyCollage3" width="659" height="465" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/AnniversaryPartyCollage3.png?resize=750%2C529&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/AnniversaryPartyCollage3.png?resize=250%2C176&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/AnniversaryPartyCollage3.png?w=1684&ssl=1 1684w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 659px) 100vw, 659px" /></a></p> 707<p> </p> 708<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Party10.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-3898" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/w
708p-content/uploads/2014/12/Party10-750x499.png?resize=524%2C349" alt="Party10" width="524" height="349" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Party10.png?resize=750%2C499&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Party10.png?resize=250%2C166&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Party10.png?w=2014&ssl=1 2014w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 524px) 100vw, 524px" /></a></p> 709<p style="text-align: center;">With Kurt, Kelsey, & Joe at Granite City<br /> 710(one of my favorite restaurants and where the party was held)</p> 711<p>The party was a complete surprise to me and Joeâand such a sweet gift from our kids. One we’ll treasure, along with the many cards and emails and notes they gathered from friends and family. We’re incredibly blessed!</p> 712<p><span style="color: #333399;"><strong>When’s the last time you’ve been completely surprised by someone? Either by an event or some kindness done? And if you’ve ever had a pet undergo surgery and have advice for help in healing, I’d love to know!</strong></span></p> 713<p>Tammy</p> 714<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://r.harpercollinschristian.com/ebook-sale/fiction.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ff0000;"><strong> Up to 80% off on over 170 e-books</strong></span></a><br /> 715<a href="http://r.harpercollinschristian.com/ebook-sale/fiction.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ff0000;"><strong>Click for more</strong></span></a></p> 716<p><a href="http://r.harpercollinschristian.com/ebook-sale/fiction.html"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-3903 size-large" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Screen-Shot-2014-12-16-at-12.43.56-AM-750x447.png?resize=750%2C447" alt="Screen Shot 2014-12-16 at 12.43.56 AM" width="750" height="447" /></a></p> 717`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/JackTornACL-750x450.png?resize=500%2C300",tags:["Assorted & Sundry","Family"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/surgery-and-surprises/"},{slug:"heavenly-currency",title:"Heavenly Currency",date:"2014-12-02",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"Ever had one of those moments when the veil between this world and the next seems to lift ever so slightly, and you feel a âhugâ from the other side? That happened to me recently. And with a $20 bill, of all things. Iâ¦",content:`<p><span style="color: #000000;">Ever had one of those moments when the veil between this world and the next seems to lift ever so slightly, and you feel a “hug” from the other side? That happened to me recently. And with a $20 bill, of all things.</span></p> 718<p><span style="color: #000000;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Moms20dollarbill.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-3732 aligncenter" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Moms20dollarbill-750x562.jpg?resize=750%2C562" alt="Moms20dollarbill" width="750" height="562" /></a> </span></p> 719<p><span style="color: #000000;">I was out running errands. Nothing huge, just Target, then Costco, then grabbed an Ice Dream cone from Chick-fil-A (an errand staple, of course), then ran by the bank, all while missing Mom. </span></p> 720<p><span style="color: #000000;">I was thinking about how she worked in a bank for so many years, and how we used to laugh and have such fun together while shopping and running around town. Then… As I was counting my money, I noticed a twenty dollar bill that looked distinct from the others. </span></p> 721<p><span style="color: #000000;">Different print. And it was older. I looked at the date on the bill and teared up. 1934. The year Mom was born. </span></p> 722<p><span style="color: #000000;">Don’t you <em>love</em> it when God gives you those special moments? When the Creator of time and space and everything that exists cares enough to reach down into the routine day of a saved sinner and let her know that he hears, he sees…everything. </span></p> 723<p><strong><span style="color: #000000;">When was your last “hug moment” from the Lord? I’d love to know.</span></strong></p> 724<p>Blessings on your Tuesday,</p> 725<p>Tammy</p> 726<p style="text-align: center;">My sweet mom, June, and Joe’s precious mom, Claudette (circa 1985)<br /> 727They’re both already Home now and, oh, how grateful I am that God blessed me with these special ladies for as long as he did</p> 728<p>
728<a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/IMG_4014.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-3734" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/IMG_4014-750x534.jpg?resize=750%2C534" alt="IMG_4014" width="750" height="534" /></a></p> 729`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Moms20dollarbill-750x562.jpg?resize=750%2C562",tags:["Assorted & Sundry"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/heavenly-currency/"},{slug:"the-sacrifice-of-time",title:"The Sacrifice of Time",date:"2014-11-18",category:"Devotional Reflections",excerpt:"In the ever popular Jesus Calling (by Sarah Young), it reads: BRING ME THE SACRIFICE of your time: a most precious commodity. In this action-addicted world, few of My children take time to sit quietly in My Presence.â¦",content:`<p>In the ever popular <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Calling-Enjoying-Peace-Presence/dp/1596447370?ie=UTF8&tag=widgetsamazon-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969"><i>Jesus Calling</i></a> (by Sarah Young), it reads:<a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Screen-Shot-2014-11-18-at-7.24.29-AM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignright wp-image-3579" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Screen-Shot-2014-11-18-at-7.24.29-AM.png?resize=200%2C281" alt="Screen Shot 2014-11-18 at 7.24.29 AM" width="200" height="281" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Screen-Shot-2014-11-18-at-7.24.29-AM.png?w=400&ssl=1 400w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Screen-Shot-2014-11-18-at-7.24.29-AM.png?resize=178%2C250&ssl=1 178w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px" /></a></p> 730<p><span style="color: #0000ff;">BRING ME THE SACRIFICE of your time: a most precious commodity. In this action-addicted world, few of My children take time to sit quietly in My Presence. But for those who do, blessings flow like streams of living water. I, the One from whom all blessings flow, am also blessed by our time together. This is a deep mystery; do not try to fathom it. Instead, glorify Me by delighting in Me. Enjoy Me now and forever!</span></p> 731<p><span style="color: #000000;">I love how Sarah Young phrases these vignettes in Jesus’ point-of-view. Time truly <i>is</i> a precious commodity, and time with Him is too.</span></p> 732<p>A friend and I were commenting recently that the days seem to be flying by! I can hardly believe Thanksgiving is almost here. Before we know it, Christmas and New Years will be on the doorstep, followed swiftly by another new year.</p> 733<p>On a walk the other night, Joe and I discussed this very thing. We started talking about these verses in chapter four…</p> 734<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #ff0000;">“Look here, you who say, âToday or tomorrow we are going to a certain town and will stay there a year. We will do business there and make a profit.â How do you know what your life will be like tomorrow? Your life is like the morning fogâitâs here a little while, then itâs gone.”</span></p> 735<p>We agreed that this is exactly how each day feels right now. Like morning fog. Here and gone. These verses serve as a reminder to me that only what we do for God will last. Everything else fades to nothing.</p> 736<p>I was also reminded to <i>slow down</i>, and to cherish more time spent with loved ones. Yes, there’s always work that needs to be done, and we need to work as though we’re working for the Lord, not for people (<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Colossians+3:23&version=NLT">Colossians 3:23</a>), but we also need to take “Sabbath time.” Time to refresh our souls, and to cherish family and friends.</p> 737<p>I did some of that this weekend with some writing buddies…</p> 738<p>
738<a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/FullSizeRender2.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-3580 aligncenter" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/FullSizeRender2-750x576.jpg?resize=339%2C260" alt="FullSizeRender" width="339" height="260" /></a></p> 739<p style="text-align: center;">With Brandilyn Collins and Sunni Jeffers</p> 740<p> </p> 741<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/IMG_4120.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-3581 aligncenter" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/IMG_4120-750x502.jpg?resize=469%2C314" alt="IMG_4120" width="469" height="314" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/IMG_4120.jpg?resize=750%2C502&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/IMG_4120.jpg?resize=250%2C167&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/IMG_4120.jpg?w=2000&ssl=1 2000w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/IMG_4120.jpg?w=3000&ssl=1 3000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 469px) 100vw, 469px" /></a></p> 742<p style="text-align: center;">With Janet Bly, Gayle Roper, Terri Blackstock, Sunni  Jeffers, Brandilyn Collins</p> 743<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/IMG_4103.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-3582 aligncenter" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/IMG_4103-750x572.jpg?resize=441%2C336" alt="IMG_4103" width="441" height="336" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/IMG_4103.jpg?resize=750%2C572&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/IMG_4103.jpg?resize=250%2C191&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/IMG_4103.jpg?w=2000&ssl=1 2000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 441px) 100vw, 441px" /></a></p> 744<p style="text-align: center;"> With Jill Eileen Smith, Kathleen Fuller, and Maureen Larson</p> 745<p>As I “bring Christ the sacrifice of my time” today (however odd that sounds to me, as if time with Him is <i>ever</i> a sacrifice on my part), I’m praying that you, too, will pause to dwell in His presenceâto delight in Himâperhaps more consciously than you normally do amidst the hustle and bustle of the coming holiday season.</p> 746<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>What’s your favorite way to slow down and <em>be</em> with the Eternal One? A walk? Reading the Word? Prayer? Biking? Baking/cooking for others?</strong></span></p> 747<p>Glad we’re on this journey together,</p> 748<p>Tammy</p> 749`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Screen-Shot-2014-11-18-at-7.24.29-AM.png?resize=200%2C281",tags:["Assorted & Sundry","Faith","Friendship"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/the-sacrifice-of-time/"},{slug:"heaven-s-strain-guest-interview-giveaway",title:"Heavenâs Strain | Guest Interview & Giveaway",date:"2014-11-04",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"Ever have people in your life who you just look at and think, âNo way can they really be that sweet.â Well, thatâs how I feel about friend and fellow author Sunni Jeffers, and Iâm excited sheâs with us today. So letâsâ¦",content:`<p><strong>Ever have people in your life who you just look at and think, “No way can they really be that sweet.”</strong></p> 750<p><strong><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Screen-Shot-2014-11-04-at-2.57.42-AM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-3420 alignright" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Screen-Shot-2014-11-04-at-2.57.42-AM-750x537.png?resize=354%2C254" alt="Screen Shot 2014-11-04 at 2.57.42 AM" width="354" height="254" /></a></strong></p> 751<p>Well, that’s how I feel about friend and fellow author Sunni Jeffers, and I’m excited she’s with us today. So let’s get started!</p> 752<p>A quick heads up: She’s giving away a copy of her brand new book, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Heavens-Strain-Sunni-Jeffers/dp/1502917572/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1415035812&sr=1-1" target="_blank">Heaven’s Strain</a>, on the blog today, so be sure and enter to win. <em>Details below.</em></p> 753<p>But first, a quick chatâ¦</p> 754<p><b><i>What’s the new book about? </i></b></p> 755<p>Heavenâs Strain is a âWhat ifâ¦â bookâa story that will take you on a fascinating ride with characters who will grab hold of your heart and insist you come along. Heavenâs Strain is suspense with angels, genetic engineering, and a love story with impossible odds.</p> 756<p> </p> 757<p><b><i>How on earth did you think of such a cool concept? </i></b></p> 758<p>I find story ideas in many ways and places, but in this case, it came from a Bible verse that has fascinated me for a long time. I had to explore the possibilities. It took me into the amazing realm of genetics, and kept opening more and more questions. The
758n I began meeting the cast of characters that inhabit this story world, and they insisted I tell their story.</p> 759<p>Hereâs the verse: <i>â</i><i>And it came to pass, when men began to multiply on the face of the earth, and daughters were born unto them, that the sons of God saw the daughters of men that they were fair; and they took them wives of all which they chose.â¦There were giants in the earth in those days; and also after that, when the sons of God came in unto the daughters of men, and they bare children to them, the same became mighty men which were of old, men of renown.â</i><i> </i>Genesis 6:1-4, KJV</p> 760<p>What if those sons of God <i>were </i>fallen angels, as legend claims and as some people believe? How would it effect the gene pool? And with todayâs advances in the realm of genetics, what possibilities and problems could exist.</p> 761<p> </p> 762<p><b><i>What about the characters? What are they like? </i></b></p> 763<p>A story has to be about someone. When I asked âWhat ifâ about the Bible verses, Phanuel, a Prince of Guardian angels, and Amaliah, a beautiful Hebrew girl, introduced themselves to me and immediately won my sympathy. I wanted to know their story, but they wouldnât tell me. I had to meet the lovely geneticist, Dr. Ellen Larson to find out more. Then Rafe Zacharias, a burned-out LA policeman, burst onto the scene, demanding his role in the story, and Homer Wilton, a very sick old man, claimed a place in my heart.</p> 764<p> </p> 765<p><b><i>Have a favorite character in this book? </i></b></p> 766<p>I adore Ellen and Homer, but Rafe is my favorite. Heâs so human and struggles deeply with honor and justice, yet feels unworthy of either.</p> 767<p> </p> 768<p><b><i>What’s brewing on the back burner?</i></b></p> 769<p>A sequel. I fell in love with the characters and canât say goodbye, so Iâm starting work on another book. This summer, my amazing brainstorming friends helped me plot the bones of two more books to follow this one.</p> 770<p> </p> 771<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/HeavensStrain_Front-cover-draft2-copy-2.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-3417" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/HeavensStrain_Front-cover-draft2-copy-2.jpg?resize=300%2C459" alt="HeavensStrain_Front cover draft2 copy 2" width="300" height="459" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/HeavensStrain_Front-cover-draft2-copy-2.jpg?w=300&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/HeavensStrain_Front-cover-draft2-copy-2.jpg?resize=163%2C250&ssl=1 163w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a></p> 772<p style="text-align: center;"> <b><i><a style="color: #ff0000;" href="http://www.amazon.com/Heavens-Strain-Sunni-Jeffers/dp/1502917572/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1415035812&sr=1-1" target="_blank">BUY it in print<br /> 773</a></i></b><b><i><a style="color: #ff0000;" href="http://www.amazon.com/Heavens-Strain-Sunni-Jeffers-ebook/dp/B00OO7Y00G/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=1-1&qid=1415035812" target="_blank">BUY it in e-book</a></i></b></p> 774<p style="text-align: left;"><strong><i><br /> 775Spiritual forces are at work to destroy mankindâ¦</i></strong></p> 776<p>Dr Ellen Larson has heard myths of fallen angels, but she has no idea they existâor that theyâre after her. She has enough on her mindâher research and her own strange DNA, which sheâs kept secret since she discovered a mutation in medical school thatâs never been seen before.</p> 777<p>Then the impossible happens. Two patients admitted to the University Medical CenterâRafe Zacharias and Homer Wiltonâhave the same genetic mutation! Without transfusions, the men will die. Ellen canât withhold what may be their only hope: her blood. She has no choiceâ¦</p> 778<p>Her secret must come out.</p> 779<p>Unseen, a battle rages around them. A battle to bring an ancient curse to life. Ellen, Rafe and Homer are pawns in a war mankind can’t afford to loseâ¦</p> 780<p> </p> 781<hr /> 782<p><span style="color: #0000ff;"><strong>GIVEAWAY</strong></span></p> 783<p>Sunni is giving a book to a lucky reader who leaves a comment on this blog today. Just tell us:</p> 784<p><b>If you have a favorite genre OR if you’re an “all over the map” reader?  And what’s your all-time favorite novelâ¦of all time? <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f642.png" alt="ð" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" loading="lazy" /> </b></p> 785<p><span style="color: #ff0000;">Only US and Canada mailing addresses are eligible for a print book. If outside North America, it’ll be an e-book.</span></p> 786<p> </p> 787<hr /> 788<p> </p> 789<p><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignright wp-image-3416 size-medium" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/w
789p-content/uploads/2014/11/Sunni-Author-Photo-for-Blog-241x250.jpeg?resize=241%2C250" alt="Sunni Author Photo for Blog" width="241" height="250" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Sunni-Author-Photo-for-Blog.jpeg?resize=241%2C250&ssl=1 241w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Sunni-Author-Photo-for-Blog.jpeg?w=300&ssl=1 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 241px) 100vw, 241px" />Sunni Jeffers is the award-winning author of 15 books. Her life has taken many turns, from Navy wife and mother, to security business owner and office manager, to cattle rancherâall of this in partnership with her wonderful husband of 48 years. She began writing after her kids left home, during the transition from business owner to rancher. Now she writes as she and her husband travel the country most of the year, living in their home-on-wheels.</p> 790<p>Connect with Sunni on:<br /> 791<a href="http://www.sunnijeffers.com" target="_blank">Her Website</a><br /> 792<a href="https://www.facebook.com/sunni.jeffers" target="_blank">Facebook</a><br /> 793<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/sunnijeffers/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a><br /> 794<a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/105418508393364981728/posts" target="_blank">Google+</a><br /> 795<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1067817.Sunni_Jeffers" target="_blank">Goodreads</a></p> 796<p> </p> 797<p> </p> 798<p> </p> 799<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Screen-Shot-2014-11-05-at-2.19.03-PM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-3443" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Screen-Shot-2014-11-05-at-2.19.03-PM-750x685.png?resize=400%2C366" alt="Screen Shot 2014-11-05 at 2.19.03 PM" width="400" height="366" /></a></p> 800`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Screen-Shot-2014-11-04-at-2.57.42-AM-750x537.png?resize=354%2C254",tags:["Writing"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/heavens-strain-guest-interview-giveaway/"},{slug:"favorite-fall-recipes-and-pie-safes",title:"Favorite Fall Recipesâ¦and pie safes",date:"2014-10-31",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"Here are a couple of my favorite fall recipes. What are some of yours? The first is pumpkin bread. Itâs impossible to mess this up, and itâs sooo yummy! Pumpkin Bread 3 cups plain flour 3 cups white sugar* ½ tsp bakingâ¦",content:`<p><strong><span style="color: #993300;">Here are a couple of my favorite fall recipes. What are some of yours? </span></strong></p> 801<p>The first is pumpkin bread. It’s impossible to mess this up, and it’s sooo yummy!</p> 802<p> </p> 803<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-31-at-12.19.15-AM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-3353" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-31-at-12.19.15-AM-750x643.png?resize=350%2C300" alt="Screen Shot 2014-10-31 at 12.19.15 AM" width="350" height="300" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-31-at-12.19.15-AM.png?resize=750%2C643&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-31-at-12.19.15-AM.png?resize=250%2C214&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-31-at-12.19.15-AM.png?w=800&ssl=1 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 350px) 100vw, 350px" /></a></p> 804<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #993300;"><b>Pumpkin Bread</b></span></p> 805<p style="text-align: center;">3 cups plain flour<br /> 8063 cups white sugar*<br /> 807½ tsp baking powder<br /> 8081 ½ tsp salt<br /> 8092 tsp baking soda<br /> 8101 tsp each cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg<br /> 8111 cup oil<br /> 8121 cup water<br /> 8131 15-ounce can pumpkin<br /> 8144 eggs<br /> 8151 cup chopped nuts</p> 816<p style="text-align: left;">Mix dry ingredients first, then blend in the rest. Bake in two greased and floured loaf pans for 50 minutes at 350. Check for doneness. Donât overbake. *I bake with Xylitol, which is a naturally occurring sugar substitute found in most plant sugar substitute, and it bakes like a dream! Great for diabetics and if youâre looking to lower calories.</p> 817<p style="text-align: left;">
817<a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/PumpkinBread.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-3357" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/PumpkinBread-562x750.jpg?resize=335%2C447" alt="PumpkinBread" width="335" height="447" /></a></p> 818<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #993300;">Seriously, a fabulous way to get fall veggies in your diet <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f642.png" alt="ð" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" loading="lazy" /></span></strong></p> 819<p style="text-align: left;">The next is <strong><span style="color: #993300;">Creamy Praline Pecan Pie</span></strong> from my cousin, Gay Hall (waving to you, Gay!) in Winchester, TN. I LOVE this pie, and it’s a sure fire hit every time I make it. And that has nothing to do with me. That’s the doin’ of the cream cheese, sugar, butter, and pecans. They take all the credit, and deservedly so.</p> 820<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-31-at-12.20.32-AM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-3354" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-31-at-12.20.32-AM.png?resize=375%2C280" alt="Screen Shot 2014-10-31 at 12.20.32 AM" width="375" height="280" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-31-at-12.20.32-AM.png?w=640&ssl=1 640w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-31-at-12.20.32-AM.png?resize=250%2C187&ssl=1 250w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 375px) 100vw, 375px" /></a></p> 821<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #993300;">Creamy Praline Pecan Pie</span></strong></p> 822<p style="text-align: center;">8 oz Cream Cheese<br /> 8238 oz Cool Whip<br /> 8241 cup powdered sugar<br /> 8252 cups pecans, coarsely chopped (I left some of my whole as you can see below)<br /> 8261 cup coconut (from the bag, not frozen)<br /> 8271/2 cup butter, melted<br /> 828Caramel Syrup (like you use on ice cream)<br /> 8291 <em>Baked</em> Pie Shell</p> 830<p style="text-align: left;">For the pie filling:<br /> 831Blend the first three ingredients (cream cheese, cool whip and powdered sugar) well with a mixer, then chill as your baked pie shell is cooling.</p> 832<p style="text-align: left;">For the pie topping:<br /> 833Stir the pecans, coconut, and butter together, spread on a slightly greased cookie sheet, then drizzle liberally with Caramel Sauce. Did I say liberally? (It warrants saying it again.) Put the cookie sheet in the oven and bake the topping at 350 for 15-20 minutes or until brown (watch, so it doesn’t burn).</p> 834<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-31-at-12.33.24-AM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-3355" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-31-at-12.33.24-AM-750x564.png?resize=350%2C263" alt="Screen Shot 2014-10-31 at 12.33.24 AM" width="350" height="263" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-31-at-12.33.24-AM.png?resize=750%2C564&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-31-at-12.33.24-AM.png?resize=250%2C188&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-31-at-12.33.24-AM.png?w=954&ssl=1 954w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 350px) 100vw, 350px" /></a></p> 835<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #993300;">The topping ready to bake. Oh. My.Word. This stuff is fabulous!</span></strong></p> 836<p style="text-align: left;">Some people who shall not be named (<em>Linda Rivers Attaway</em>) add chocolate syrup to this recipe. And while I adore chocolate and would marry it if it wore pants, I think adding chocolate to this pie is a sin. But if you must sin, let it be with chocolate. And let it be on your own head. Orâ¦pie.</p> 837<p>
837As the pecan topping cools after baking, take your cream cheese mixture from the fridge and spread that into your pie crust…</p> 838<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-31-at-12.33.36-AM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-3356" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-31-at-12.33.36-AM-750x664.png?resize=350%2C310" alt="Screen Shot 2014-10-31 at 12.33.36 AM" width="350" height="310" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-31-at-12.33.36-AM.png?resize=750%2C664&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-31-at-12.33.36-AM.png?resize=250%2C221&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-31-at-12.33.36-AM.png?w=942&ssl=1 942w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 350px) 100vw, 350px" /></a></p> 839<p style="text-align: center;">Here’s the pie filling ready to be covered in that luscious topping. <em>Come to Mama!</em></p> 840<p>Simply spoon the cooled pecan/coconut topping over the cream cheese, drizzle more Caramel Sauce on the top (can you have too much caramel? I don’t think so), and you’re done! Keep pie refrigerated until ready to eat. Truly one of my favorite pies. To make <i>and</i> eat.</p> 841<p style="text-align: center;"><em> <span style="color: #993300;"><br /> 842<strong>Be sure and let me know if you bake either of these recipes. We’ll be recipe soulmates.</strong></span></em></p> 843<p style="text-align: center;"> 844<p style="text-align: left;">By the way, do any of you own an antique pie safe? Please tell me if you do, so I can envy you before promptly repenting.</p> 845<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/1840s-pie-safe.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-3358" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/1840s-pie-safe.jpg?resize=350%2C413" alt="1840s pie safe" width="350" height="413" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/1840s-pie-safe.jpg?w=481&ssl=1 481w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/1840s-pie-safe.jpg?resize=212%2C250&ssl=1 212w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 350px) 100vw, 350px" /></a></p> 846<p style="text-align: center;">I’ve been looking for an affordable antique pie safe for years.<br /> 847Let me know if you have one you want to bring to my house.<br /> 848I really need to lock up my pies.</p> 849<p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="color: #993300;"><br /> 850So, those are two of my favorite fall desserts. What are <em>yours</em>? </span></strong></p> 851<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #ff6600;"><strong>BONUS QUESTION: </strong></span><br /> 852<span style="color: #ff6600;"><strong>How many of you are frantically sewing last minute sequins and finishes to Halloween costumes today? Tell me what you’re sewing, please, and what your little munchkins are dressing up as.</strong></span></p> 853<p style="text-align: left;">So grateful for our community here.</p> 854<p style="text-align: left;">Love you gals!</p> 855<p style="text-align: left;">Tammy</p> 856<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff;"><strong>Cutest video of a little boy as a Minion!</strong></span></p> 857<p><iframe loading="lazy" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/0efg6w-X5ow" width="420" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> 858<p> </p> 859<p> </p> 860`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-31-at-12.19.15-AM-750x643.png?resize=350%2C300",tags:["Recipes"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/favorite-fall-recipes-and-pie-safes/"},{slug:"critics-don-t-always-have-the-last-word",title:"Critics donât always have the last word",date:"2014-10-30",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"Are you a creative? Or struggling to find your niche? History is rife with stories such as Albert Bierstadtâs (below), but I always love happening across them. When I was writing my Colorado Territory fiction, I hadâ¦",content:`<div data-blogger-escaped-style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;"> 861<p><strong>Are you a creative? Or struggling to find your niche? </strong></p> 862</div> 863<div data-blogger-escaped-style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;"> 864<p>History is rife with stories such as Albert Bierstadt’s (below), but I always love happening across them. When I was writing my Colorado Territory fiction, I had images of Bierstadt’s paintings scrolling by on my second monitor. So inspiring.</p> 865</div> 866<div data-blogger-escaped-style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;"></div> 867<div data-blogger-escaped-style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;"></div> 868<div data-blogger-escaped-style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="//images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-v4NfYcMUZZE%2FVE_HYQf60sI%2FAAAAAAAAMd8%2FCnNvd422FKw%2Fs1600%2FScreen%252BShot%252B2014-10-28%252Bat%252B11.37.52%252BAM.png&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" alt="" width="419" height="640" border="0" data-orig-src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v4NfYcMUZZE/VE_HYQf60sI/AAAAAAAAMd8/CnNvd422FKw/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2014-10-28%2Bat%2B11.37.52%2BAM.png" loading="lazy" /></div> 869<div data-blogger-escaped-style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;"></div> 870<div data-blogger-escaped-style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;"> 871<hr /> 872</div> 873<div data-blogger-escaped-style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; min-height: 13px;"></div> 874<div data-blogger-escaped-style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; min-height: 13px;">His storyâ¦</div> 875<div data-blogger-escaped-style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;"> 876<p>Albert Bierstadt (1830-1902), was a member of the Hudson River School. Bierstadt’s use of light, often referred to as âluminism,â is his trademark. Known primarily for his depictions of the American West, Bierstadt was the leading painter of the ever-expanding frontier during the 19th century. Today, the few Bierstadt works that become available at auction continue to bring in ever increasing prices.</p> 877</div> 878<div data-blogger-escaped-style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; min-height: 13px;"></div> 879<div data-blogger-escaped-style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; min-height: 13px;"> 880<p>Born in Solingen, Germany, Bierstadtâs family moved to Massachusetts when he was just two years old. In 1853, his blossoming interest in art lead him to formal study at the Düsseldorf School in Germany.<
880/p> 881</div> 882<div data-blogger-escaped-style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; min-height: 13px;"></div> 883<div data-blogger-escaped-style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; min-height: 13px;"></div> 884<div data-blogger-escaped-style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; min-height: 13px;"> 885<p>Upon his return to the United States, the artistâs subjects concentrated mainly on the New England area, until 1859, when he accompanied a land surveyor for the U.S. government to the western frontier. The sketches Bierstadt returned with became finished works that garnered him much financial success. Officially finding his niche, he would make numerous trips to the West throughout his career, creating paintings that detailed the bountiful beauty of the vast landscapes he encountered.</p> 886</div> 887<div data-blogger-escaped-style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; min-height: 13px;"></div> 888<div data-blogger-escaped-style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; min-height: 13px;"></div> 889<div data-blogger-escaped-style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; min-height: 13px;">In the critical art circles of his day, Bierstadt did not fare well. Despite his commercial success, opponents of his work often considered his use of large canvases, light and romantic subject matter to be out of style and inappropriate with the tastes of the time. With the rise of Impressionism and the Boston School, public tastes also moved away from his highly detailed landscapes. Bierstadt eventually declared bankruptcy in 1895. (Text of the story excerpted from: www.rauantiques.com)</div> 890<div data-blogger-escaped-style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; min-height: 13px;"></div> 891<div data-blogger-escaped-style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; min-height: 13px;"> 892<hr /> 893</div> 894<div data-blogger-escaped-style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; min-height: 13px;"></div> 895<div data-blogger-escaped-style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; min-height: 13px;"> 896<p>What a gifted painter he was, despite the disparaging opinions of critics of his day. So all you creatives, keep creating!</p> 897</div> 898<div data-blogger-escaped-style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; min-height: 13px;"></div> 899<div data-blogger-escaped-style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; min-height: 13px;"> 900<p>And do it for the glory of the Giver of the gift, not for recognition of the gift.</p> 901</div> 902<div data-blogger-escaped-style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: center;"> 903<div></div> 904<div> 905<p><strong>Are you a creative? What’s your creative outlet? What other “triumphing over critics” stories have you heard?</strong></p> 906</div> 907<p>Continued blessings,</p> 908</div> 909<div> 910<p>Tamera</p> 911</div> 912<div data-blogger-escaped-style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;"></div> 913<div style="text-align: center;" data-blogger-escaped-style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; min-height: 13px;"> <a href="http://www.albertbierstadt.org" target="_blank"> See more of Albert Bierstadt’s work</a></div> 914<p><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IFfjt8whHyA/VE_Hz4XkmrI/AAAAAAAAMeE/ZBdgK8_2vR4/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2014-10-28%2Bat%2B11.24.48%2BAM.png"><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="//images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-IFfjt8whHyA%2FVE_Hz4XkmrI%2FAAAAAAAAMeE%2FZBdgK8_2vR4%2Fs1600%2FScreen%252BShot%252B2014-10-28%252Bat%252B11.24.48%252BAM.png&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" alt="" width="400" height="308" border="0" data-orig-src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IFfjt8whHyA/VE_Hz4XkmrI/AAAAAAAAMeE/ZBdgK8_2vR4/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2014-10-28%2Bat%2B11.24.48%2BAM.png" loading="lazy" /></a></p> 915`,featuredImage:"http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v4NfYcMUZZE/VE_HYQf60sI/AAAAAAAAMd8/CnNvd422FKw/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2014-10-28%2Bat%2B11.37.52%2BAM.png",tags:["Assorted & Sundry","Writing","Creatives","Critics"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/critics-dont-always-have-the-last-word/"},{slug:"what-are-you-reading-2",title:"What are you reading?",date:"2014-10-21",category:"Devotional Reflections",excerpt:"What are you reading right now? Are you loving it? Is it changing you? If yes, Iâd appreciate you sharing the title and author. I recently read a book that touched me in a deep place. Wrestling with Wonder: Aâ¦",content:`<p><span style="color: #993300;"><strong>What are you reading right now? Are you loving it? Is it changing you? If yes, I’d appreciate you sharing the title and author.</strong></span></p> 916<p><span style="color: #000000;">I recently read a book that touched me in a deep place. <a style="color: #000000;" href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00J1UEADI/tameralexa-20" target="_blank"><em>Wrestling with Wonder: A Transformational Journey Through the Life of Mary</em></a> by Marlo Schlaskey is a phenomenal book about the nature of God and how we struggle to understand him. To make sense of things. Just as Mary did. </span></p> 917<p> </p> 918<p>
918<a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-20-at-8.53.03-PM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-3223" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-20-at-8.53.03-PM-544x750.png?resize=325%2C448" alt="Screen Shot 2014-10-20 at 8.53.03 PM" width="325" height="448" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-20-at-8.53.03-PM.png?resize=544%2C750&ssl=1 544w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-20-at-8.53.03-PM.png?resize=181%2C250&ssl=1 181w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-20-at-8.53.03-PM.png?w=968&ssl=1 968w" sizes="(max-width: 325px) 100vw, 325px" loading="lazy" /></a></p> 919<p> </p> 920<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.marloschalesky.com/books/nonfiction/" target="_blank"><strong>Read a sample</strong></a></p> 921<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00J1UEADI/tameralexa-20" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ff0000;"><strong>Buy the book</strong></span></a></p> 922<p style="text-align: left;">Here are some passages that really resonated with me. Maybe they will with you, too.</p> 923<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-20-at-9.03.44-PM1.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-3225" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-20-at-9.03.44-PM1-750x480.png?resize=500%2C320" alt="Screen Shot 2014-10-20 at 9.03.44 PM" width="500" height="320" /></a></p> 924<p style="text-align: left;">Marlo has a masterful way of weaving eternal, unyielding truth with the human condition. I was both convicted and encouraged beyond words as I read.</p> 925<p style="text-align: left;">Here’s another passage that touched meâ¦</p> 926<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-20-at-9.10.45-PM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-3226" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-20-at-9.10.45-PM-750x308.png?resize=550%2C226" alt="Screen Shot 2014-10-20 at 9.10.45 PM" width="550" height="226" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-20-at-9.10.45-PM.png?resize=750%2C308&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-20-at-9.10.45-PM.png?resize=250%2C103&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-20-at-9.10.45-PM.png?w=1596&ssl=1 1596w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 550px) 100vw, 550px" /></a></p> 927<p style="text-align: left;"><em>A love that defies expectationsâ¦</em></p> 928<p style="text-align: left;">Have you ever played the expectation game with God? The “if I do this (and obey)” then “You’ll do that” (give me what I want because I <em>did</em> obey) game. But our obedience doesn’t earn us the right to escape the suffering that Jesus went through, and that he <em>promises</em> we’ll go through as well.<span style="color: #993300;"><em> In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart, I’ve overcome the world!</em></span> (John 16:33)</p> 929<p style="text-align: left;">Marlo takes us deep into the heart of Maryâand what perfect timing as Christmas swiftly approachesâand pens with such tenderness and unforgiving reality what it must have been like for the mother of Christ.</p> 930<p style="text-align: left;">One last passageâ¦</p> 931<p style="text-align: left;">
931<a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-20-at-9.17.35-PM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-3227" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-20-at-9.17.35-PM-750x500.png?resize=559%2C373" alt="Screen Shot 2014-10-20 at 9.17.35 PM" width="559" height="373" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-20-at-9.17.35-PM.png?resize=750%2C500&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-20-at-9.17.35-PM.png?resize=250%2C167&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-20-at-9.17.35-PM.png?w=1508&ssl=1 1508w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 559px) 100vw, 559px" /></a></p> 932<p style="text-align: left;">As I said in my endorsement for this book, I started underlining and then realized I was underlining nearly every sentence on the page!</p> 933<p style="text-align: left;">If you’ve ever felt broken, disappointed, confused at what God is doing in your life, and desire God’s wisdom and discernment to shed fresh light into all that⦠I highly recommend <a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00J1UEADI/tameralexa-20" target="_blank"><em>Wresting with Wonder.</em></a> Mary’s journeyâand Marlo’sâwill be an incredible gift of encouragement to you.</p> 934<p style="text-align: left;">And maybeâ¦a great gift for someone else at Christmas, too!</p> 935<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #993300;"><strong>So tell me, what have <em>you</em> been reading lately?</strong></span></p> 936<p style="text-align: left;">Tammy</p> 937<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-20-at-9.23.18-PM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-3228" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-20-at-9.23.18-PM-350x750.png?resize=350%2C750" alt="Screen Shot 2014-10-20 at 9.23.18 PM" width="350" height="750" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-20-at-9.23.18-PM.png?resize=350%2C750&ssl=1 350w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-20-at-9.23.18-PM.png?resize=117%2C250&ssl=1 117w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-20-at-9.23.18-PM.png?w=624&ssl=1 624w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 350px) 100vw, 350px" /></a></p> 938<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #993300;">If you’re in or near Franklin, TN this weekend (about 25 minutes from downtown Nashville), I hope you’ll drop me to see me from 12PM-2PM at Landmark Booksellers during the Franklin Pumpkinfest. I’ll be watching for you!</span></p> 939<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><a href="http://www.historicfranklin.com/pumpkinfest" target="_blank"> More about the Franklin Pumpkinfest</a></strong></p> 940`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-20-at-8.53.03-PM-544x750.png?resize=325%2C448",tags:["Faith","Reading","Marlo Schalesky","Wrestling with Wonder"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/what-are-you-reading/"},{slug:"cooking-up-fiction",title:"Cooking up Fiction",date:"2014-10-07",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"I love to cook. Or more rightly, bake. So as Iâm writing my novelsâespecially the Southern onesâitâs a natural thing for my heroines or secondary characters to be cooking up some scrumptious entrees and desserts. Hereâ¦",content:`<p>I love to cook. Or more rightly, bake.</p> 941<p>So as I’m writing my novelsâespecially the Southern onesâit’s a natural thing for my heroines or secondary characters to be cooking up some scrumptious entrees and desserts. Here are just a few:</p> 942<p style="text-align: center;"><em>Click each of the images for the recipe</em></p> 943<p><a href="http://www.tameraalexander.com/recipes.html" target="_blank"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="http://www.tameraalexander.com/recipes.html aligncenter wp-image-3052 size-full" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/w
943p-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-06-at-9.52.45-PM.png?resize=424%2C506" alt="Screen Shot 2014-10-06 at 9.52.45 PM" width="424" height="506" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-06-at-9.52.45-PM.png?w=424&ssl=1 424w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-06-at-9.52.45-PM.png?resize=209%2C250&ssl=1 209w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 424px) 100vw, 424px" /></a></p> 944<p style="text-align: left;">Ever had Buttermilk Pie?  This is a recipe that’s been in my family for years. I bet you I’ve made this pie at least 200 times. Yum! It’s one of those one bowl pies that you cannot mess up. <em>Really</em>.</p> 945<p> </p> 946<p><a href="http://www.tameraalexander.com/recipes.html" target="_blank"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="http://www.tameraalexander.com/recipes.html aligncenter wp-image-3053 size-full" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-06-at-9.52.56-PM.png?resize=425%2C571" alt="Screen Shot 2014-10-06 at 9.52.56 PM" width="425" height="571" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-06-at-9.52.56-PM.png?w=425&ssl=1 425w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-06-at-9.52.56-PM.png?resize=186%2C250&ssl=1 186w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 425px) 100vw, 425px" /></a></p> 947<p>What about quiche? Are you a fan of this luscious egg and cheeseâand oh this ol’ timey crustâdish? This crust really is one of the best I’ve ever had. And so easy. I always make two crusts. One to use then and one to freeze for next time!</p> 948<p> </p> 949<p><a href="http://www.tameraalexander.com/recipes.html" target="_blank"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="http://www.tameraalexander.com/recipes.html aligncenter wp-image-3054 size-full" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-06-at-9.53.12-PM.png?resize=402%2C457" alt="Screen Shot 2014-10-06 at 9.53.12 PM" width="402" height="457" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-06-at-9.53.12-PM.png?w=402&ssl=1 402w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-06-at-9.53.12-PM.png?resize=220%2C250&ssl=1 220w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 402px) 100vw, 402px" /></a></p> 950<p>What Southern novel would be complete without a pound cake? But not just any pound cake. A pound cake recipe dating back to the 1860s. I love eating food from yesteryear. Do you?</p> 951<p> </p> 952<p><a href="http://www.tameraalexander.com/recipes.html" target="_blank"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="http://www.tameraalexander.com/recipes.html aligncenter wp-image-3055 size-full" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-06-at-9.53.20-PM.png?resize=351%2C351" alt="Screen Shot 2014-10-06 at 9.53.20 PM" width="351" height="351" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-06-at-9.53.20-PM.png?w=351&ssl=1 351w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-06-at-9.53.20-PM.png?resize=150%2C150&ssl=1 150w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-06-at-9.53.20-PM.png?resize=250%2C250&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-06-at-9.53.20-PM.png?resize=350%2C350&ssl=1 350w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 351px) 100vw, 351px" /></a></p> 953<p>The Belle Meade Carrot Cake is a reader fav, for sure. And I love it that it was a favorite of the Harding family’s too. Veggies have never tasted so good!</p> 954<p> </p> 955<p><a href="http://www.tameraalexander.com/recipes.html" target="_blank"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="http://www.tameraalexander.com/recipes.html aligncenter wp-image-3056 size-full" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/w
955p-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-06-at-9.53.29-PM.png?resize=421%2C341" alt="Screen Shot 2014-10-06 at 9.53.29 PM" width="421" height="341" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-06-at-9.53.29-PM.png?w=421&ssl=1 421w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-06-at-9.53.29-PM.png?resize=250%2C202&ssl=1 250w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 421px) 100vw, 421px" /></a></p> 956<p>And last but not leastâ¦Syllabub. This one is of the lemon variety. It’s made with wine and sugar and whipping cream and need I say more? So light and delicious. And this really was served at Belle Meade as far back as the early 1800s.</p> 957<p>In fact, Susannah Harding served syllabub to Davy Crockett in the Old Harding Cabin featured in the video below (filmed on location at Belle Meade in Nashville). When asked if he liked the dessert, Mr. Crockett replied, <em>“Well, I donât know. I took a snap or two at it but I reckon I missed it!â â</em></p> 958<p> </p> 959<p><iframe loading="lazy" title="(The Old Harding Cabin, Belle Meade Plantation) To Whisper Her Name By Tamera Alexander" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ozThfaGfDk0?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p> 960<p style="text-align: left;">Do you have a favorite food from yesteryear? Or perhaps a family recipe that’s been passed down for generations? Or have you made any of these recipes before?</p> 961<p style="text-align: left;">Happy baking,</p> 962<p style="text-align: left;">Tammy</p> 963<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.tameraalexander.com/recipes.html" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #000080;">View all the recipes from my novels</span></strong></a></p> 964<p> </p> 965`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Screen-Shot-2014-10-06-at-9.52.45-PM.png?resize=424%2C506",tags:["Assorted & Sundry"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/cooking-up-fiction/"},{slug:"loose-threads",title:"Loose Threads",date:"2014-09-16",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"Thanks to the ladies of Northside Baptist Church in Murfreesboro, TN for inviting me to speak this past Saturday morning and for giving me such a warm welcome. What a fabulous group! One of the ladies, Lynn Bollesâ¦",content:`<p id="id_5417d77db303b7252124572" class="text_exposed_root text_exposed">Thanks to the ladies of Northside Baptist Church in Murfreesboro, TN for inviting me to speak this past Saturday morning and for giving me such a warm welcome. What a fabulous group! One of the ladies, Lynn Bolles Drewry, grew up in Fayetteville, TN and <span class="text_exposed_show">went to high school with my sweet dad (Lynn and I figured this out a few months ago when she attended a book signing at the Belmont Mansion). </span></p> 966<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed"></div> 967<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/IMG_3565.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-2816" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/IMG_3565-562x750.jpg?resize=352%2C470" alt="IMG_3565" width="352" height="470" /></a></div> 968<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed"></div> 969<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="text-align: center;">Lynn brought her 1950s yearbook that <em>my</em> dad had signed. LOL!</div> 970<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="text-align: center;">Small world indeed…</div> 971<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="text-align: center;"></div> 972<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="text-align: center;"></div> 973<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="text-align: left;">And if that’s not enough, Lynn is the aunt of Sandy Lundy (waving to you, Sweet Sandy) who was my boss close to 30 years ago when Joe and I were living in Memphis, TN, and I was working at a communications company there. This second connection was discovered when Lynn told her niece (Sandy) about a book she’d read by a Tamera Alexander, and Sandy thought, “Wait a minute…”</div> 974<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed"></div> 975<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed">Don’t you love how God weaves our lives together? Just imagine what all we’ll learn once we’re looking back on this life from eternity.</div> 976<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed"></div> 977<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed"> 978<div id="attachment_2818" style="width: 386px" class="wp-caption aligncenter">
978<a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/IMG_3559.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2818" class="wp-image-2818" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/IMG_3559-684x750.jpg?resize=376%2C412" alt="IMG_3559" width="376" height="412" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-2818" class="wp-caption-text">My dad is bottom right (Wayne Gattis)</p></div> 979</div> 980<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="text-align: center;"></div> 981<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="text-align: center;"></div> 982<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed"></div> 983<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed"></div> 984<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed"> 985<div id="attachment_2819" style="width: 342px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/IMG_3561.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2819" class="wp-image-2819" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/IMG_3561-562x750.jpg?resize=332%2C443" alt="IMG_3561" width="332" height="443" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-2819" class="wp-caption-text">And this is Lynn (Bolles Drewry) as a teenager. Love it!</p></div> 986</div> 987<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="text-align: center;"></div> 988<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed"></div> 989<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed"></div> 990<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed"></div> 991<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed"> 992<div id="attachment_2820" style="width: 378px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/IMG_3569.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2820" class="wp-image-2820" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/IMG_3569-646x750.jpg?resize=368%2C427" alt="IMG_3569" width="368" height="427" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/IMG_3569.jpg?resize=646%2C750&ssl=1 646w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/IMG_3569.jpg?resize=215%2C250&ssl=1 215w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/IMG_3569.jpg?w=2000&ssl=1 2000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 368px) 100vw, 368px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-2820" class="wp-caption-text">With some of the sweet ladies from Northside Baptist Church. Thank you, Nancy (left), for inviting me!</p></div> 993</div> 994<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="text-align: center;"></div> 995<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="text-align: center;"></div> 996<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed"></div> 997<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed"></div> 998<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="text-align: center;"> 999<div id="attachment_2821" style="width: 369px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/IMG_3591.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2821" class="wp-image-2821" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/IMG_3591-591x750.jpg?resize=359%2C455" alt="IMG_3591" width="359" height="455" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-2821" class="wp-caption-text">With Erica Tudor Reed (doesn’t she look great in turquoise!)</p></div> 1000</div> 1001<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="text-align: center;"></div> 1002<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="text-align: center;"></div> 1003<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #993366;"><strong>What’s the latest thread God has revealed to you as he’s weaving your life with others?  </strong></span></div> 1004<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="text-align: left;"></div> 1005<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="text-align: left;"></div> 1006<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="text-align: left;">Blessings on your Tuesday,</div> 1007<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="text-align: left;">Tamera</div> 1008<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="text-align: left;"></div> 1009<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="text-align: left;">
1009<a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/IMG_3373.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-2822" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/IMG_3373-750x422.png?resize=570%2C321" alt="IMG_3373" width="570" height="321" /></a></div> 1010`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/IMG_3565-562x750.jpg?resize=352%2C470",tags:["Family","Friendship","Author Events","God Steps"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/loosethreads/"},{slug:"finding-inspiration-guest-blogger-laura-frantz",title:"Finding Inspiration | Guest blogger Laura Frantz",date:"2014-09-02",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"Nothing like a summer ride up into the woods and mountains of Washington State. Hereâs my dear friend, Linda, and I preparing to go. Since my next hero is a horseman, among other things, Iâm rehearsing the role, so toâ¦",content:`<p style="color: #323333;">Nothing like a summer ride up into the woods and mountains of Washington State. Here’s my dear friend, Linda, and I preparing to go. Since my next hero is a horseman, among other things, I’m rehearsing the role, so to speak <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f642.png" alt="ð" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" loading="lazy" /></p> 1011<p style="color: #0433ff;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Major-Picture-1.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-2620" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Major-Picture-1-750x598.jpg?resize=500%2C399" alt="Major Picture 1" width="500" height="399" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Major-Picture-1.jpg?resize=750%2C598&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Major-Picture-1.jpg?resize=250%2C199&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Major-Picture-1.jpg?w=835&
1011ssl=1 835w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></a></p> 1012<p style="color: #323333;">The woods were so cool despite the 80 degree day and so lovely with the sunlight filtering through the trees…</p> 1013<p style="color: #0433ff;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Major-Picture-2.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-2621" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Major-Picture-2-750x562.jpg?resize=500%2C375" alt="Major Picture 2" width="500" height="375" /></a></p> 1014<p style="color: #323333;">My favorite summer flower here is the wild rose but the fireweed and avalanche lilies and other blooms are in abundance…</p> 1015<p style="color: #0433ff;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Major-Picture-3.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-2622" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Major-Picture-3-750x750.jpg?resize=500%2C500" alt="Major Picture 3" width="500" height="500" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Major-Picture-3.jpg?resize=750%2C750&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Major-Picture-3.jpg?resize=150%2C150&ssl=1 150w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Major-Picture-3.jpg?resize=250%2C250&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Major-Picture-3.jpg?resize=350%2C350&ssl=1 350w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Major-Picture-3.jpg?w=2000&
1015ssl=1 2000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></a></p> 1016<p style="color: #323333;">After taking some switchbacks, we were up on the ridge behind my house with an inspiring view of the water blanketed with mist…</p> 1017<p style="color: #0433ff;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Major-Picture-4-2.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-2623" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Major-Picture-4-2-750x560.jpg?resize=500%2C373" alt="Major Picture 4 (2)" width="500" height="373" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Major-Picture-4-2.jpg?resize=750%2C560&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Major-Picture-4-2.jpg?resize=250%2C187&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Major-Picture-4-2.jpg?w=2000&ssl=1 2000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 500px) 100v
1017w, 500px" /></a></p> 1018<p style="color: #323333;">The same view at twilight, taken by Linda’s photographer husband, Roger, who captures such unforgettable images wherever he roams. He even snapped these pics of Linda and me without my knowing! His <a href="https://www.facebook.com/RogerMosleyPhotography?ref=br_tf"><span style="color: #0433ff;">Facebook</span></a> photography page is full of inspiration if you want to take a lookâ¦</p> 1019<p style="color: #0433ff;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Major-Picture-5-2.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-2624" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Major-Picture-5-2-750x493.jpg?resize=500%2C329" alt="Major Picture 5 (2)" width="500" height="329" /></a></p> 1020<p style="color: #323333;">I rode Major, a Tennessee Walker, who has lots of personality! We’d be tearing down the trail and he’d snatch a big ol’  helping of salmonberry brush without missing a beat. Lindaâs little collie followed us all the way…</p> 1021<p style="color: #1f4e79;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Major-Picture-6.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-2625" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Major-Picture-6-750x557.jpg?resize=500%2C372" alt="Major Picture 6" width="500" height="372" /></a></p> 1022<p style="color: #323333;">An unforgettable day with God’s glory on display!</p> 1023<p style="color: #323333;"><span style="color: #0000ff;"><strong><i>Any other horse lovers out there? What do </i><i>you</i><i> do for inspiration?</i></strong></span></p> 1024<p style="color: #323333;">~Laura Frantz</p> 1025<p style="color: #323333;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/lauramontereybest.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft wp-image-2632 size-thumbnail" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/lauramontereybest-150x150.jpg?resize=150%2C150" alt="lauramontereybest!" width="150" height="150" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/lauramontereybest.jpg?resize=150%2C150&ssl=1 150w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/lauramontereybest.jpg?resize=350%2C350&ssl=1 350w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/lauramontereybest.jpg?zoom=2&resize=150%2C150&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/lauramontereybest.jpg?zoom=3&resize=150%2C150&ssl=1 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 150px) 100vw, 150px" /></a></p> 1026<p style="color: #323333;"><a href="http://laurafrantz.net" target="_blank">Check out Laura’s website</a></p> 1027<p style="color: #323333;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Screen-Shot-2014-09-02-at-7.50.44-AM.png" target="_blank" rel="http://laurafrantz.net"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="http://laurafrantz.net aligncenter wp-image-2626" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Screen-Shot-2014-09-02-at-7.50.44-AM-750x531.png?resize=500%2C354" alt="Love's Fortune, September 2014" width="500" height="354" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Screen-Shot-2014-09-02-at-7.50.44-AM.png?resize=750%2C531&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Screen-Shot-2014-09-02-at-7.50.44-AM.png?resize=250%2C177&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Screen-Shot-2014-09-02-at-7.50.44-AM.png?w=858&
1027ssl=1 858w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></a></p> 1028<p style="color: #323333; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6-pqeyQoN9Y" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #323333;">Click to view the trailer that gives a fabulous inside glimpse of the photo shoot for this novel with the author</span></strong></a></p> 1029<p style="color: #323333; text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Screen-Shot-2014-09-02-at-10.09.19-AM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-2634" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Screen-Shot-2014-09-02-at-10.09.19-AM-750x431.png?resize=400%2C230" alt="Screen Shot 2014-09-02 at 10.09.19 AM" width="400" height="230" /></a></p> 1030<p style="color: #323333; text-align: center;"> 1031<p style="color: #323333; text-align: center;"> 1032<p style="color: #323333; text-align: center;"><a title="Excerpt Love's Fortune by Laura Frantz" href="http://assets.bakerpublishinggroup.com/processed/book-resources/files/Excerpt_9780800720438.pdf?1405087251" target="_blank"><strong>Read an Excerpt from Love’s Fortune </strong></a></p> 1033<p style="color: #323333; text-align: center;"> 1034`,featuredImage:"https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f642.png",tags:["Assorted & Sundry"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/finding-inspiration-guest-blogger-laura-frantz/"},{slug:"belmont-mansion-as-adelicia-knew-it",title:"Belmont Mansion as Adelicia knew it",date:"2014-08-29",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"The Belmont Mansion in N
1034ashville, Tennessee, the setting for A Lasting Impression and A Beauty So Rare , is a special place to me. Not only because of its significance in Southern history, but because of the love andâ¦",content:`<p>The Belmont Mansion in Nashville, Tennessee, the setting for <em>A Lasting Impression</em> and <em>A Beauty So Rare</em>, is a special place to me. Not only because of its significance in Southern history, but because of the love and care the Belmont Mansion staff and curators continue to give the Italianate summer villa that Joseph and Adelicia Acklen constructed in 1853.</p> 1035<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/BelmontMansionBlueSkies.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-2591" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/BelmontMansionBlueSkies-750x590.jpg?resize=450%2C354" alt="BelmontMansionBlueSkies" width="450" height="354" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/BelmontMansionBlueSkies.jpg?resize=750%2C590&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/BelmontMansionBlueSkies.jpg?resize=250%2C197&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/BelmontMansionBlueSkies.jpg?w=2000&
1035ssl=1 2000w" sizes="(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px" loading="lazy" /></a></p> 1036<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://belmontmansion.com" target="_blank">Belmont Mansion, Nashville, TN</a></p> 1037<p> </p> 1038<p>One of the projects they’re currently working on is the columns on the second floor landing where the family bedrooms are located. In Adelicia’s day, the capitals of the columns were tipped in a mixture containing <em>real</em> gold. So Belmont Mansion is restoring them to their original luster and beauty using a similar process. And a very expensive paint!</p> 1039<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3267.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-2578" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3267-562x750.jpg?resize=438%2C585" alt="IMG_3267" width="438" height="585" loading="lazy" /></a></p> 1040<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3268.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-2579" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3268-562x750.jpg?resize=436%2C582" alt="IMG_3268" width="436" height="582" loading="lazy" /></a></p> 1041<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.tameraalexander.com/belmontmansionnovels.html" target="_blank">Click for more views inside the Belmont Mansion</a></p> 1042<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3269.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-2580" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3269-562x750.jpg?resize=492%2C657" alt="IMG_3269" width="492" height="657" /></a></p> 1043<p style="text-align: center;">Love the details that the gold brings out.</p> 1044<p> </p> 1045<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3270.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-2581" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3270-750x562.jpg?resize=491%2C368" alt="IMG_3270" width="491" height="368" /></a></p> 1046<p style="text-align: center;">Here you can see the pictures (some of them enlarged to show the detail) that Jerry Trescott (historical architect at Belmont Mansion) is using to get the details exactly right. Also notice the black and white checkered floor in the picture. That’s also Jerry’s artistry and devotion at work. This is how the wooden floors looked in Adelicia’s day. She had them painted to resemble marble. Lovely!</p> 1047<p style="text-align: center;"> 1048<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3271.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-2582" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3271-750x602.jpg?resize=472%2C379" alt="IMG_3271" width="472" height="379" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3271.jpg?resize=750%2C602&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3271.jpg?resize=250%2C201&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3271.jpg?w=2000&ssl=1 2000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 472px) 100vw, 472px" /></a></p> 1049<p style="text-align: center;">Jerry (Trescott) and I snapped a quick picture in the foyer of the Belmont Mansion that day. He was working on painting the capitals, and I was delivering “Thank you Krispy Kreme doughnuts” and signing all of my books in stock in the Belmont Mansion gift shop.</p> 1050<p style="text-align: center;"> 1051<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3266.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-2577" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/w
1051p-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3266-750x562.jpg?resize=524%2C392" alt="IMG_3266" width="524" height="392" /></a></p> 1052<p style="text-align: center;">More period beds the Belmont Mansion recently acquired. The blue settee in the foreground is an original piece that Adelicia owned.</p> 1053<p style="text-align: center;"> 1054<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3265.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2576" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3265-562x750.jpg?resize=562%2C750" alt="IMG_3265" width="562" height="750" /></a></p> 1055<p style="text-align: center;">A half tester bed newly acquired and displayed in the children’s nursery at Belmont Mansion.</p> 1056<p style="text-align: center;"> 1057<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>History fascinates me. Does it you? Do you have a particular home or setting from history that you enjoy visiting? Have you been to the Belmont Mansion yet? If not, I’d love to show it to you!</strong></p> 1058<p style="text-align: left;">Tammy</p> 1059<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.tameraalexander.com/belmontmansionnovels.html" target="_blank"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-2584" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Screen-Shot-2014-08-29-at-12.31.07-PM-750x604.png?resize=407%2C328" alt="Screen Shot 2014-08-29 at 12.31.07 PM" width="407" height="328" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Screen-Shot-2014-08-29-at-12.31.07-PM.png?resize=750%2C604&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Screen-Shot-2014-08-29-at-12.31.07-PM.png?resize=250%2C201&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Screen-Shot-2014-08-29-at-12.31.07-PM.png?w=1400&ssl=1 1400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 407px) 100vw, 407px" /></a><em>Click to pic to learn more</em></p> 1060`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/BelmontMansionBlueSkies-750x590.jpg?resize=450%2C354",tags:["Assorted & Sundry"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/belmont-mansion-as-adelicia-knew-it/"},{slug:"epitaphs-and-having-the-last-word",title:"Epitaphs, and having the last word",date:"2014-08-19",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"My sweet Dad and I at Georgia National Cemetery this past Sunday visiting Momâs grave Iâve always loved cemeteries. Their quiet. Their shadows. Their reminder of the brevity of this life. This past Sunday, my Dad, hisâ¦",content:`<div id="attachment_2440" style="width: 188px" class="wp-caption alignright"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3257-Version-2.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2440" class="wp-image-2440" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3257-Version-2-436x750.jpg?resize=178%2C307" alt="IMG_3257 - Version 2" width="178" height="307" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-2440" class="wp-caption-text">My sweet Dad and I at Georgia National Cemetery this past Sunday visiting Mom’s grave</p></div> 1061<p>I’ve always loved cemeteries. Their quiet. Their shadows. Their reminder of the brevity of this life.</p> 1062<p>This past Sunday, my Dad, his wife, Esta, and my daughter Kelsey and I visited Georgia National Cemetery in Canton where my mom’s earthly body is buried.</p> 1063<p>I know we often say where “so and so is buried” when we refer to someone’s grave. But the clearer heaven becomes to me from studying God’s Wordâand the closer I get to my forever home (which is code for getting old)âI’m more aware of how I view things in this life. <em>And</em> in the next. And while that’s where we buried Mom’
1063s body, Mom certainly isn’t <em>there</em>.</p> 1064<p>And I’m so grateful.</p> 1065<p> </p> 1066<div id="attachment_2434" style="width: 323px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3247.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2434" class="wp-image-2434" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3247-750x750.jpg?resize=313%2C313" alt="IMG_3247" width="313" height="313" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3247.jpg?resize=750%2C750&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3247.jpg?resize=150%2C150&ssl=1 150w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3247.jpg?resize=250%2C250&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3247.jpg?resize=350%2C350&ssl=1 350w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3247.jpg?w=2000&ssl=1 2000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 313px) 100vw, 313px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-2434" class="wp-caption-text">Hard to believe five years have passed already. I’m even more grateful for her now than I was then.</p></div> 1067<p>Dad chose “My Best Friend” because that’s what he and Mom were after 56+ years. That, and much more.</p> 1068<p>As I usually do when given time to wander cemeteries, I studied the graves, noting names and dates, the lifespan of the departed, and their epitaphs. Some tugged at my heartstrings while others made me smile big time.</p> 1069<p>Here are just a few…</p> 1070<p> </p> 1071<div id="attachment_2437" style="width: 460px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3251.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2437" class="wp-image-2437" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3251-750x750.jpg?resize=450%2C450" alt="IMG_3251" width="450" height="450" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3251.jpg?resize=750%2C750&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3251.jpg?resize=150%2C150&ssl=1 150w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3251.jpg?resize=250%2C250&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3251.jpg?resize=350%2C350&ssl=1 350w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3251.jpg?w=2000&
1071ssl=1 2000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-2437" class="wp-caption-text">“I fought a good fight.” What poignant, eternal words.</p></div> 1072<div id="attachment_2438" style="width: 460px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3252.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2438" class="wp-image-2438" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3252-750x750.jpg?resize=450%2C450" alt="IMG_3252" width="450" height="450" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3252.jpg?resize=750%2C750&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3252.jpg?resize=150%2C150&ssl=1 150w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3252.jpg?resize=250%2C250&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3252.jpg?resize=350%2C350&ssl=1 350w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3252.jpg?w=2000&
1072ssl=1 2000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-2438" class="wp-caption-text">Is there a more precious thought?</p></div> 1073<p> </p> 1074<div id="attachment_2439" style="width: 460px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3254.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2439" class="wp-image-2439" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3254-750x750.jpg?resize=450%2C450" alt="IMG_3254" width="450" height="450" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3254.jpg?resize=750%2C750&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3254.jpg?resize=150%2C150&ssl=1 150w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3254.jpg?resize=250%2C250&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3254.jpg?resize=350%2C350&ssl=1 350w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3254.jpg?w=2000&
1074ssl=1 2000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-2439" class="wp-caption-text">The words to the song flood the mind, don’t they?</p></div> 1075<p> </p> 1076<p style="text-align: center;">And lastly, a favorite…</p> 1077<div id="attachment_2436" style="width: 460px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3250.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2436" class="wp-image-2436" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3250-750x750.jpg?resize=450%2C450" alt="IMG_3250" width="450" height="450" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3250.jpg?resize=750%2C750&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3250.jpg?resize=150%2C150&ssl=1 150w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3250.jpg?resize=250%2C250&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3250.jpg?resize=350%2C350&ssl=1 350w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3250.jpg?w=2000&
1077ssl=1 2000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-2436" class="wp-caption-text">What a great sense of humor. In a cemetery, no less.</p></div> 1078<p> </p> 1079<p style="text-align: left;">And why shouldn’t there be humor there? As I commented to Dad on Sunday, the Georgia National Cemetery, situated high on a Georgia mountain top, feels like a stepping stone to heaven. And it is, for those who’ve trusted Christ.</p> 1080<p style="text-align: left;">Seeing those epitaphs got me to wonderingâ¦</p> 1081<p style="text-align: left;">What would I want written on my gravestone? “I <em>told</em> you I was sick!” is what James Dobson always kidded about his mother requesting. Again, that humor.</p> 1082<p style="text-align: left;">If I had to choose right this moment, I think I’d choose “<em>Finally</em> enjoying a heavenly body.” LOL. Or perhaps what would be better, “Swallowed up by life,” taken from <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=II+Cor+5%3A4&version=NLT" target="_blank">II Corinthians 5:4</a> which is nestled in a favorite passage of mine.</p> 1083<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #993300;">“While we live in these earthly bodies, we groan and sigh, but itâs not that we want to die and get rid of these bodies that clothe us. Rather, we want to put on our new bodies so that these dying bodies will be <strong>swallowed up by life.”</strong></span></p> 1084<p style="text-align: left;">What brief epitaph would <em>you</em> choose today? A personal question, I know, and certainly a thought-provoking one. But I’d love to know. Now if only we were strolling through a cemetery for ambiance… Do you love cemeteries too?</p> 1085<p style="text-align: left;">Tammy</p> 1086<p style="text-align: left;">P.S. Note on the featured picture in the header⦠That’s the last picture Mom and I had taken together. We were on a family cruise just a handful of weeks before she passed. What a fabulous time we had!</p> 1087<p style="text-align: left;"> 1088<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Editor Cam</strong></p> 1089<div id="attachment_2441" style="width: 310px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3132.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2441" class="wp-image-2441" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3132-562x750.jpg?resize=300%2C400" alt="IMG_3132" width="300" height="400" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-2441" class="wp-caption-text">With Karen Schurrer, my Bethany House editor, who visited Nashville last weekend with her husband, Jeff. Love them both. The four of us (husbands included) met for brunch one morning at the Egg & I.</p></div> 1090<p> </p> 1091`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_3257-Version-2-436x750.jpg?resize=178%2C307",tags:["Assorted & Sundry","Family"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/epitaphs-and-having-the-last-word/"},{slug:"diagnoses-driving-and-dads",title:"Diagnoses, Driving, and Dads",date:"2014-08-05",category:"News & Updates",excerpt:"So grateful for my dad You might remember that I was in Atlanta with my dad when I posted a month ago, and Iâm back here again. Iâve been with Dad and Esta for about week now, staying with them as Dadâs been strugglingâ¦",content:`<div id="attachment_2190" style="width: 214px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2190" class="wp-image-2190 size-medium" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/DadandmeChristmas2011-204x250.jpg?resize=204%2C250" alt="DadandmeChristmas2011" width="204" height="250" /><p id="caption-attachment-2190" class="wp-caption-text">So grateful for my dad</p></div> 1092<p>You might remember that I was in Atlanta with my dad when I posted a month ago, and I’m back here again. I’ve been with Dad and Esta for about week now, staying with them as Dad’s been struggling with continuing nausea and sickness following a stroke and subsequent gallbladder surgery.</p> 1093<p>Dad had an upper GI last Thursday, and the doctor called us Friday saying the results were in but that she preferred to share them with us <em>in person</em> at our appointment originally scheduled for today. Admittedly, news like that makes your heart skip a tiny beat. But we were able to get an office visit yesterday and I’m so grateful.</p> 1094<p><span style="color: #333399;"><strong>Waiting is so hard, isn’t it? Especially when someone you love is hurting.</strong></span></p> 1095<p>What we learned is that there’s <span style="color: #000000;">a stricture in his esophagus. It’s serious, but fixable, with a slight increased risk of another stroke since a patient has to go off of blood thinners for surgery. But the risk of <em>not</em> fixing the stricture is far greater (he’s lost 15 lbs in the past three weeks due to inability to eat or keep food down), so the procedure will take place next week, providing all pre-op tests go well. </span></p> 1096<p><span style="color: #000000;">I’m so grateful to know what’s going on and to have a plan of attack. And am equally grateful for your prayers. Y’all are the best!</span></p> 1097<p>On a writing note, I recently shared the cover of my next book on my<a title="Tamera Alexander's Facebook Page" href="http://www.Facebook.com/TameraAlexander" target="_blank"> Facebook Page</a> and want to share it here too. I really appreciate Harper Collins Christian Publishing for taking my vision for <em>To Win Her Favor, </em>the second standalone Belle Meade Plantation novel, and bringing it to life! They captured Maggie and her gorgeous thoroughbred Bourbon Belle so perfectly. I really love the <em>painterly</em> effect they used, too. What do you think?</p> 1098<p>
1098<a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/TWHFCoverReveal.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-2188" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/TWHFCoverReveal-433x750.png?resize=301%2C521" alt="TWHFCoverReveal" width="301" height="521" /></a></p> 1099<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00L0SEH1O/tameralexa-20" target="_blank"><em> </em></a><strong><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00L0SEH1O/tameralexa-20" target="_blank"><em>To Win Her Favor</em> </a>is the second standalone novel </strong><strong>in the Belle Meade Plantation series<br /> 1100<a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B007JK5EVY/tameralexa-20" target="_blank"><em>To Whisper Her Name</em></a> is the first</strong></p> 1101<p> </p> 1102<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #993300;">About <em>To Win Her Favor: </em></span></p> 1103<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #993300;"><strong>A gifted rider in a world where <em>ladies</em> never race, Maggie Linden is determined that her horse be a champion. But the one man who can help her has vowed to stay away from thoroughbred racing for good.</strong></span><br /> 1104<span style="color: #993300;">  </span><br /> 1105<span style="color: #993300;"> An Irishborn son far from home, Cullen McGrath left a once prosperous life in England because of a horse racing scandal that nearly ruined him. Heâs come to Nashville for a fresh start, hoping to buy land and start a farm. Yet starting over proves harder than heâd wagered, especially when Maggie Lindenâs father makes him an offer he doesnât dare accept. Yet, cannot possibly refuse.</span></p> 1106<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #993300;">Maggie is certain that her mare, Bourbon Belle, can take the top purse in the annual Peyton Stakes at Nashvilleâs racetrackâthe richest race run in America. Maggie only needs the chance to prove it. To give her that chance, and to save Linden Downs from being sold to the highest bidder, Maggieâs fatherâaging, yet wily as everâmakes a barter. His agreement includes one tiny, troublesome detailâMaggie must marry a man sheâs never met. A man she never would have chosen for herself.</span></p> 1107<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #993300;">Cullen and Maggie need each other in order to achieve their dreams. But their stubborn, wounded heartsâand the escalating violence from a “secret society” responsible for lynchings and midnight raidsâmay prove too much for even two such determined souls.</span></p> 1108<p><span style="color: #333399;"><strong>Jack and I are headed back to Nashville todayâ¦</strong></span></p> 1109<p>I’m looking forward to the drive, and the time to pray for Dad. <span style="color: #333399;"><strong>Do you enjoy driving by yourself? If you were traveling with me today, would you choose an iced caramel latte (like me at the moment) or a slushy cold Diet DP? And more importantly, is there something you’re waiting to receive an answer to in your life? If so, please share. I’d be honored to pray for you in return.</strong></span></p> 1110<p>Much love and wish you were in the car with me,</p> 1111<p>Tammy</p> 1112<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/BTM_WMH199ebookAmazon.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-2189" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/BTM_WMH199ebookAmazon-750x662.png?resize=397%2C351" alt="BTM_WMH199ebookAmazon" width="397" height="351" /></a></p> 1113<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #ff0000;"> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00914PCUO/tameralexa-20" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ff0000;"><em>Beyond This Moment</em></span></a></span></strong></p> 1114<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #ff0000;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00914FHTK/tameralexa-20" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ff0000;"><em>Within My Heart</em></span></a></span></strong></p> 1115<p style="text-align: center;"> Yesterday, a reader alerted me to these two e-books currently being on sale at Amazon. It must be a sale Amazon is running alone, so who knows when it will end. But the e-books are discounted for now!</p> 1116`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/w
1116p-content/uploads/2014/08/DadandmeChristmas2011-204x250.jpg?resize=204%2C250",tags:["Assorted & Sundry","Family","Upcoming Releases"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/diagnoses-driving-and-dads/"},{slug:"for-better-or-for-worse-an-e-book-and-a-hallmark-movie",title:"For Better or For Worse, an e-bookâ¦and a Hallmark Movie",date:"2014-07-15",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"In celebration of Diann Huntâs upcoming Hallmark movie (airing this Saturday, July 19) her book For Better or For Worse is available digitally for only $2.99 for the next week (ends 7/21.) Di was a precious friend toâ¦",content:`<p><strong>In celebration of <a href="http://diannhunt.com/my-life/" target="_blank">Diann Hunt’s</a> upcoming <a href="http://www.hallmarkchannel.com/forbetterorforworse" target="_blank">Hallmark movie</a> (airing <em>this</em> Saturday, July 19) her book <em>For Better or For Worse</em> is </strong><strong>available digitally for only $2.99 for the next week (ends 7/21.)</strong></p> 1117<p>Di was a precious friend to many of us on <em>Inspired By Life and Fiction</em>, and all of us who loved her would appreciate it so much<span class="text_exposed_show"> if you would share this special deal with your friends and family! Can you help us spread this far and wide?</span></p> 1118<p> </p> 1119<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/541956_1_ftc_dp.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-1997" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/541956_1_ftc_dp.jpg?resize=300%2C469" alt="541956_1_ftc_dp" width="300" height="469" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/541956_1_ftc_dp.jpg?w=459&ssl=1 459w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/541956_1_ftc_dp.jpg?resize=160%2C250&ssl=1 160w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a></p> 1120<p> </p> 1121<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><a href="http://www.christianbook.com/for-better-or-worse/diann-hunt/9781595541956/pd/541956" target="_blank">Click for more on <em>For Better or For Worse</em> $2.99 e-book sale</a></strong></p> 1122<p><span class="text_exposed_show"><strong>About the book: </strong><br /> 1123She’s a wedding coordinator. He’s a divorce attorney. She begins marriages. He ends them. How could these two possibly find common ground?</span></p> 1124<p>Wendy Hartline is finally starting to settle into the single life. After a difficult season of grief following her husband’s death, she’s taken over the family business of coordinating memorable weddings. Life has become . . . comfortable. Then the charming and incredibly frustrating Marco Amorini opens a legal practice–specializing in divorces–right next to her wedding chapel and stirs up everything.</p> 1125<p>Wendy learns that perhaps there is such a thing as second chances in this hilarious story of the pleasures and pains of new love in midlife.</p> 1126<p> </p> 1127<p><strong>About the movie:</strong></p> 1128<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Screen-Shot-2014-07-15-at-7.21.03-AM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-1998" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Screen-Shot-2014-07-15-at-7.21.03-AM.png?resize=500%2C379" alt="Screen Shot 2014-07-15 at 7.21.03 AM" width="500" height="379" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Screen-Shot-2014-07-15-at-7.21.03-AM.png?w=1142&ssl=1 1142w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Screen-Shot-2014-07-15-at-7.21.03-AM.png?resize=250%2C190&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Screen-Shot-2014-07-15-at-7.21.03-AM.png?resize=750%2C569&
1128ssl=1 750w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></a></p> 1129<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.hallmarkchannel.com/forbetterorforworse/video/Preview/ForBetterorForWorse" target="_blank"><strong>Watch the video about the movie that airs THIS SATURDAY</strong></a></p> 1130<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>About our sweet Diann:</strong></p> 1131<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Screen-Shot-2014-07-15-at-7.24.09-AM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-1999" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Screen-Shot-2014-07-15-at-7.24.09-AM.png?resize=500%2C335" alt="Screen Shot 2014-07-15 at 7.24.09 AM" width="500" height="335" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Screen-Shot-2014-07-15-at-7.24.09-AM.png?w=1142&ssl=1 1142w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Screen-Shot-2014-07-15-at-7.24.09-AM.png?resize=250%2C168&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Screen-Shot-2014-07-15-at-7.24.09-AM.png?resize=750%2C503&
1131ssl=1 750w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></a></p> 1132<p style="text-align: left;">I hope you’ll buy Di’s e-book this week and enjoy her love of laughter and her flair for writing a fabulous story, and that you’ll grab a friend on Saturday and watch the movie! I’ll be reading and watching this week too.</p> 1133<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Have you read one of Di’s books? Are you Hallmark Movie lover? One of my favorite Hallmark movies ever is Grace & Glory. Do you remember that one? Do you have a Hallmark <strong>favorite</strong>?</strong></p> 1134<p style="text-align: left;">Blessings on your Tuesday,</p> 1135<p style="text-align: left;">Tammy</p> 1136`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/541956_1_ftc_dp.jpg?resize=300%2C469",tags:["Friendship","Movies & TV"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/for-better-or-for-worse-an-ebook-and-a-hallmark-movie/"},{slug:"jesus-in-the-flesh-people-in-your-life",title:"âJesus in the fleshâ people in your life",date:"2014-07-01",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"Hey friends, Iâm writing from Atlanta. I drove down on Sunday to be with my sweet dad whoâs been suffering from TIAs (mini-strokes) and other related issues. Itâs so hard to see those you love hurting. On Sunday when Iâ¦",content:`<p><strong>Hey friends, I’m writing from Atlanta.</strong> I drove down on Sunday to be with my sweet dad who’s been suffering from TIAs (mini-strokes) and other related issues. It’s so hard to see those you love hurting.</p> 1137<p>On Sunday when I arrived, he was not doing well at all, but what a difference the past 24 hours and YOUR PRAYERS have made! <strong>Thank you for offering prayers for his strength and healing. </strong></p> 1138<p>The TIAs seem to have stopped (though, as many of you know, there’s really no way to stop them completely, they’re the body’s warning sign of blood clots), and his issues of dizziness, nausea, and splitting headaches are subsiding as well. He’s actually eating again and took three shorts walks yesterday. His balance and mobility are improving each time. He might be coming home today, we’ll see.</p> 1139<p> </p> 1140<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/DadHospital.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-1819" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/DadHospital.jpg?resize=507%2C349" alt="DadHospital" width="507" height="349" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/DadHospital.jpg?w=1218&ssl=1 1218w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/DadHospital.jpg?resize=250%2C172&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/DadHospital.jpg?resize=750%2C516&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/DadHospital.jpg?resize=350%2C240&ssl=1 350w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 507px) 100vw, 507px" /></a></p> 1141<p style="text-align: left;">This pic is of him on Monday afternoon talking on the phone with a fellow retiree and former co-worker from Life of Georgia (where Dad worked for 36 years). I love that he still has these friendships in his life all these years later. Doesn’t he look great for what he’s been through in recent days?</p> 1142<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/DadEstaMeHospitalJun14.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-1834" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/DadEstaMeHospitalJun14.jpg?resize=250%2C188" alt="DadEstaMeHospitalJun14" width="250" height="188" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/DadEstaMeHospitalJun14.jpg?w=1280&
1142ssl=1 1280w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/DadEstaMeHospitalJun14.jpg?resize=250%2C188&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/DadEstaMeHospitalJun14.jpg?resize=750%2C563&ssl=1 750w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 250px) 100vw, 250px" /></a></p> 1143<p style="text-align: center;">The three of us last night before I went back to their house</p> 1144<p style="text-align: left;">I’ll likely head back to Nashville today. Esta (Dad’s sweet wife) will take excellent care of him, I know. I have a first draft due next Friday and can hear the clock <em>majorly</em> ticking inside me. But I’m so grateful to have had this precious time with my dad. I’ve thanked my Heavenly Father repeatedly for giving me an earthly father who looks so much like him. It’s made such a difference in my faith walk to have had Godly parents. I’m so grateful.</p> 1145<p>I’m also grateful, friends, that (as Eleanor says in <em>A Beauty So Rare</em>) our together forever started here. I appreciate you!</p> 1146<p><strong>Who in your life has been a reflection of God the father and of Jesus for you? </strong></p> 1147<p>Tammy</p> 1148<p> </p> 1149<p style="text-align: center;"><strong></p> 1150<hr /> 1151<p><em>Rekindled by @TameraAlexander is free on ebook for a limited time. http://tameraalexander.blogspot.de/2014/06/want-free-e-book.html</em><br /><a href='https://twitter.com/share?text=Rekindled+by+%40TameraAlexander+is+free+on+ebook+for+a+limited+time.+http%3A%2F%2Ftameraalexander.blogspot.de%2F2014%2F06%2Fwant-free-e-book.html&url=https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/jesusintheflesh/' target='_blank'>Click To Tweet</a></p> 1152<hr /> 1153<p></strong></p> 1154<p style="text-align: center;">Would you tweet this out for me? I’m grateful for your help in spreading the word.</p> 1155<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/RekindledFREEebook.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1395" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/RekindledFREEebook.png?resize=287%2C480" alt="RekindledFREEebook" width="287" height="480" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/RekindledFREEebook.png?w=287&ssl=1 287w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/RekindledFREEebook.png?resize=149%2C250&ssl=1 149w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 287px) 100vw, 287px" /></a></p> 1156`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/DadHospital.jpg?resize=507%2C349",tags:["Family"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/jesusintheflesh/"},{slug:"from-germany-with-love",title:"From Germany With Love",date:"2014-06-17",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"Hello friends, Iâm writing a quick note on Monday morning from Schwäbisch Gmünd, Germany where weâre having a wonderful time on our book tour with Francke, our German publisher. Iâm with friends Lynn Austin andâ¦",content:`<p><strong>Hello friends,</strong></p> 1157<p><strong>I’m writing a quick note on Monday morning from Schwäbisch Gmünd, Germany where we’re having a wonderful time on our book tour with Francke, our German publisher.</strong></p> 1158<p> </p> 1159<p><img data-recalc-dims="1" fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" class="wp-image-1594 aligncenter" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_0231.jpg?resize=480%2C360" alt="IMG_0231" width="480" height="360" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_0231.jpg?w=3264&ssl=1 3264w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_0231.jpg?resize=250%2C188&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_0231.jpg?resize=750%2C563&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_0231.jpg?w=2000&
1159ssl=1 2000w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_0231.jpg?w=3000&ssl=1 3000w" sizes="(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" loading="lazy" /></p> 1160<p style="text-align: center;">I’m with friends Lynn Austin and Elizabeth Musser and we’re spending our days laughing<br /> 1161<span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">hysterically while trying not to be too “American.” Essentially an impossible feat for us.</span></p> 1162<p style="text-align: center;"> 1163<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_02291.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" class="wp-image-1622" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_02291.jpg?resize=548%2C411" alt="IMG_0229" width="548" height="411" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_02291.jpg?w=1440&ssl=1 1440w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_02291.jpg?resize=250%2C188&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_02291.jpg?resize=750%2C563&ssl=1 750w" sizes="(max-width: 548px) 100vw, 548px" loading="lazy" /></a></p> 1164<p style="text-align: center;"> 1165<p style="text-align: center;">The first night on the book tour.</p> 1166<p style="text-align: center;"> 1167<p style="text-align: center;"> 1168<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2432.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" class="wp-image-1608" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2432.jpg?resize=543%2C461" alt="IMG_2432" width="543" height="461" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2432.jpg?resize=250%2C213&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2432.jpg?zoom=2&resize=543%2C461&ssl=1 1086w" sizes="(max-width: 543px) 100vw, 543px" loading="lazy" /></a></p> 1169<p style="text-align: center;"> 1170<p style="text-align: center;">With Lynn and the lovely gals from Love Letter, a German Magazine with readers who adore romance.</p> 1171<p style="text-align: center;"> 1172<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_02431.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class=" wp-image-1623" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_02431.jpg?resize=440%2C588" alt="IMG_0243" width="440" height="588" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_02431.jpg?w=1440&ssl=1 1440w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_02431.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 440px) 100vw, 440px" /></a></p> 1173<p style="text-align: center;">With Christian Heinritz, the wonderful marketing executive with Francke who designed the German cover for <em>The Inheritance. (Shhhh….</em>but I actually like my German cover for this book far better than my American cover. Do you?)</p> 1174<p style="text-align: center;"> 1175<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2397.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-1606" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2397.jpg?resize=535%2C714" alt="IMG_2397" width="535" height="714" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2397.jpg?w=1440&ssl=1 1440w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2397.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2397.jpg?resize=563%2C750&ssl=1 563w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 535px) 100vw, 535px" /></a></p> 1176<p style="text-align: center;"> 1177<p style="text-align: center;"> 1178<p style="text-align: center;">Lynn needing an <em>entire</em> table just for her breakfast alone! ; ) The German food is delicious, especially the bread. My treadmill is going to majorly groan when I get home. My Spanx are already crying.</p> 1179<p style="text-align: center;"> 1180<p style="text-align: center;">
1180<a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2378.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-1605" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2378.jpg?resize=617%2C824" alt="IMG_2378" width="617" height="824" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2378.jpg?w=1440&ssl=1 1440w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2378.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 617px) 100vw, 617px" /></a></p> 1181<p style="text-align: center;">Toasting with “ice,” as Germans call ice cream. Delicious.</p> 1182<p style="text-align: center;"> 1183<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2352.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-1604" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2352.jpg?resize=593%2C445" alt="IMG_2352" width="593" height="445" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2352.jpg?w=1440&ssl=1 1440w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2352.jpg?resize=250%2C188&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2352.jpg?resize=750%2C563&ssl=1 750w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 593px) 100vw, 593px" /></a></p> 1184<p style="text-align: center;">Gorgeous flowers in bloom.</p> 1185<p style="text-align: center;"> 1186<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2336.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-1603" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2336.jpg?resize=673%2C898" alt="IMG_2336" width="673" height="898" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2336.jpg?w=1440&ssl=1 1440w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2336.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2336.jpg?resize=563%2C750&ssl=1 563w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 673px) 100vw, 673px" /></a></p> 1187<p style="text-align: center;">Kelsey, my daughter, and I are loving the doors in Germany. They have such character. She’s taken tons of pictures which I’ll post on Facebook once I return. Internet (and time) and limited here. They keep us running with events, sometimes two per day. But we are LOVING every minute!</p> 1188<p style="text-align: center;"> 1189<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2320.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-1602" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2320.jpg?resize=600%2C800" alt="IMG_2320" width="600" height="800" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2320.jpg?w=1440&ssl=1 1440w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2320.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2320.jpg?resize=563%2C750&ssl=1 563w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" /></a></p> 1190<p style="text-align: center;">Kelsey and Lynn in Marburg. These two are getting into <em>such</em> trouble together.</p> 1191<p style="text-align: center;"> 1192<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2403.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-1607" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2403.jpg?resize=715%2C260" alt="IMG_2403" width="715" height="260" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/w
1192p-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2403.jpg?resize=250%2C92&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2403.jpg?zoom=2&resize=715%2C260&ssl=1 1430w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 715px) 100vw, 715px" /></a></p> 1193<p style="text-align: center;"> 1194<p style="text-align: center;">One of the beautiful palaces we’ve visited while here. America really is such a young country!</p> 1195<p style="text-align: center;"> 1196<p style="text-align: center;"> 1197<p style="text-align: center;"> 1198<p style="text-align: center;"> 1199<p style="text-align: center;"> 1200<p style="text-align: center;"> 1201<p style="text-align: center;"> 1202<p style="text-align: center;"> 1203<p style="text-align: center;"> 1204<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_0505.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-1595" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_0505.jpg?resize=465%2C348" alt="IMG_0505" width="465" height="348" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_0505.jpg?w=3264&ssl=1 3264w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_0505.jpg?resize=250%2C188&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_0505.jpg?resize=750%2C563&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_0505.jpg?w=2000&ssl=1 2000w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_0505.jpg?w=3000&ssl=1 3000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 465px) 100vw, 465px" /></a></p> 1205<p style="text-align: center;">Me with a sweet reader friend. I’m so grateful to Francke from translating my books into German. Being here and meeting with these readers is such a blessing.</p> 1206<p style="text-align: center;"> 1207<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_0482.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-1600" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_0482.jpg?resize=410%2C307" alt="IMG_0482" width="410" height="307" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_0482.jpg?w=1440&ssl=1 1440w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_0482.jpg?resize=250%2C188&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_0482.jpg?resize=750%2C563&ssl=1 750w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 410px) 100vw, 410px" /></a></p> 1208<p style="text-align: center;"> 1209<p style="text-align: center;">One night we all got homemade booties as gifts! So nice!</p> 1210<p style="text-align: center;"> 1211<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/BootieFriend.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-1627" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/BootieFriend.jpg?resize=350%2C263" alt="BootieFriend" width="350" height="263" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/BootieFriend.jpg?w=3264&ssl=1 3264w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/BootieFriend.jpg?resize=250%2C188&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/BootieFriend.jpg?resize=750%2C563&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/BootieFriend.jpg?w=2000&ssl=1 2000w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/BootieFriend.jpg?w=3000&ssl=1 3000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 350px) 100vw, 350px" /></a></p> 1212<p style="text-align: center;">The sweet lady who made the booties for us.</p> 1213<p style="text-align: center;"> 1214<p style="text-align: center;"> 1215<p style="text-align: center;"> 1216<p style="text-align: center;"> 1217<p style="text-align: center;"> 1218<p style="text-align: center;"> 1219<p style="text-align: center;">
1219<a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/photo-2-3.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-1624 " src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/photo-2-3.jpg?resize=529%2C397" alt="photo 2-3" width="529" height="397" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/photo-2-3.jpg?w=1280&ssl=1 1280w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/photo-2-3.jpg?resize=250%2C188&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/photo-2-3.jpg?resize=750%2C563&ssl=1 750w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 529px) 100vw, 529px" /></a></p> 1220<p style="text-align: center;">Us with our lovely hosts in Hille, Germany and with Anne-Ruth (far right), the publisher at Francke. Anne-Ruth is fabulous. Such a gracious lady with a heart for publishing fiction that points other to Christ.</p> 1221<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Adoring-fan.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-1626" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Adoring-fan.jpg?resize=350%2C467" alt="Adoring fan" width="350" height="467" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Adoring-fan.jpg?w=2448&ssl=1 2448w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Adoring-fan.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Adoring-fan.jpg?resize=563%2C750&ssl=1 563w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Adoring-fan.jpg?w=2000&ssl=1 2000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 350px) 100vw, 350px" /></a></p> 1222<p style="text-align: center;">Just another adoring fan (as our daughter Kelsey said as she snapped this picture of the sound tech during one of our presentations one evening, ROFLOL!) Hey, just keepin’ it real!</p> 1223<p style="text-align: left;"> 1224<p style="text-align: left;">One night as several of us were chatting, we commented on how grateful we are that American-German relations are what they are today, instead of what they were some 75 years ago. At heart, we are all the same. God created each of us and instilled within us the desire to be loved by Him, to seek His face, and to share this incredible journey called life.</p> 1225<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Have you ever been to Germany? Or to Europe? If yes, I’d love to hear about your trip. And also what food you enjoyed the most while there.</strong></p> 1226<p style="text-align: left;">Blessings on your Tuesday, friends.</p> 1227<p style="text-align: left;">Tammy</p> 1228`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_0231.jpg?resize=480%2C360",tags:["Assorted & Sundry"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/from-germany-with-love/"},{slug:"belmont-mansion-returning-treasures",title:"Belmont Mansion Returning Treasures",date:"2014-06-03",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"Belmont Mansion, Nashville, TN The Belmont Mansion here in Nashville, Tennessee recently acquired over 200 new pieces that belonged to Adelicia Acklen, the mistress of Belmont Mansion, the setting of A Lastingâ¦",content:`<div id="attachment_1396" style="width: 249px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1396" class="wp-image-1396" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2085.jpg?resize=239%2C317" alt="IMG_2085" width="239" height="317" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2085.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2085.jpg?resize=563%2C750&
1228ssl=1 563w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2085.jpg?zoom=2&resize=239%2C317&ssl=1 478w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 239px) 100vw, 239px" /><p id="caption-attachment-1396" class="wp-caption-text">Belmont Mansion, Nashville, TN</p></div> 1229<p>The Belmont Mansion here in Nashville, Tennessee recently acquired over 200 <em>new</em> pieces that belonged to Adelicia Acklen, the mistress of Belmont Mansion, the setting of <em>A Lasting Impression</em> and <em>A Beauty So Rare</em>.</p> 1230<p>These items have been in the Acklen family since being removed from the Belmont Mansion in the 1880s. But as you can imagine, the curator and staff of the mansion are welcoming them back with open arms, grateful to the Acklen family for their generosity.</p> 1231<p><strong>Here’s a glimpse at some of the returning treasuresâ¦</strong></p> 1232<p> </p> 1233<p> </p> 1234<div id="attachment_1402" style="width: 291px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2095.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1402" class="wp-image-1402" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2095.jpg?resize=281%2C375" alt="IMG_2095" width="281" height="375" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2095.jpg?w=360&ssl=1 360w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2095.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 281px) 100vw, 281px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1402" class="wp-caption-text">One of two vases, French Porcelain (Old Paris) 1850</p></div> 1235<p> </p> 1236<div id="attachment_1404" style="width: 398px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_20991.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1404" class="wp-image-1404" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_20991.jpg?resize=388%2C517" alt="Adelicia Acklen" width="388" height="517" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_20991.jpg?w=1440&ssl=1 1440w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_20991.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_20991.jpg?resize=563%2C750&ssl=1 563w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 388px) 100vw, 388px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1404" class="wp-caption-text">Adelicia Hayes Franklin Acklen Cheatham (1817-1887) ca. 1840</p></div> 1237<p> </p> 1238<div id="attachment_1406" style="width: 408px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2101.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1406" class="wp-image-1406" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2101.jpg?resize=398%2C530" alt="Pauline Acklen Lockett" width="398" height="530" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2101.jpg?w=576&ssl=1 576w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2101.jpg?resize=188%2C250&ssl=1 188w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2101.jpg?resize=563%2C750&ssl=1 563w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 398px) 100vw, 398px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1406" class="wp-caption-text">Pauline Acklen Lockett (1859-1931) ca. 1875 (Adelicia’s daughter)</p></div> 1239<p> </p> 1240<div id="attachment_1407" style="width: 400px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2127.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1407" class="wp-image-1407" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/w
1240p-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2127.jpg?resize=390%2C390" alt="IMG_2127" width="390" height="390" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2127.jpg?w=1080&ssl=1 1080w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2127.jpg?resize=150%2C150&ssl=1 150w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2127.jpg?resize=250%2C250&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2127.jpg?resize=750%2C750&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2127.jpg?resize=350%2C350&ssl=1 350w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 390px) 100vw, 390px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-1407" class="wp-caption-text">Resignation (Parian) Purchased on Adelicia’s Grand Tour of Europe 1865</p></div> 1241<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.652328424853924.1073741842.142700165816755&type=1" target="_blank"><span style="color: #993300;"><strong> Click to see more items from the collection</strong></span></a></p> 1242<p>These are all pieces that belonged to Adelicia who is a prominent secondary character in my Belmont Mansion novels. I couldn’t begin to write these novels with such historical detail and accuracy if not for the staff at the Belmont Mansion. They’re fabulous! <em>(Jerry Trescott, thanks for the personal tour of these returning treasures.)</em></p> 1243<p>The next time you’re in Nashville, I hope you’ll stop by the mansion for a visit. Or better yet, grab your book club and plan a girl’s weekend out. I’m often in the mansion and run into readers there. I hope to see you soon!</p> 1244<p><strong>What’s the last museum or art show you’ve attended? And which do you enjoy perusing more? Pretty portraits or porcelain pretties?</strong></p> 1245<p>Tammy</p> 1246<p style="text-align: center;"><a title="Rekindled Free ebook" href="http://tameraalexander.blogspot.com/2014/06/rekindled-free-ebook-limited-time.html" target="_blank"></p> 1247<hr /> 1248<p><em>Rekindled #FREEebook by USA Today Bestselling Author Tamera Alexander http://tinyurl.com/ndeebu9 </em><br /><a href='https://twitter.com/share?text=Rekindled+%23FREEebook+by+USA+Today+Bestselling+Author+Tamera+Alexander%C2%A0http%3A%2F%2Ftinyurl.com%2Fndeebu9+&url=https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/belmontmansioncollections/' target='_blank'>Click To Tweet</a></p> 1249<hr /> 1250<p></a><a title="Rekindled Free ebook" href="http://tameraalexander.blogspot.com/2014/06/rekindled-free-ebook-limited-time.html" target="_blank"><br /> 1251<img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-1395 aligncenter" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/RekindledFREEebook.png?resize=287%2C480" alt="RekindledFREEebook" width="287" height="480" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/RekindledFREEebook.png?w=287&ssl=1 287w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/RekindledFREEebook.png?resize=149%2C250&ssl=1 149w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 287px) 100vw, 287px" /></a></p> 1252`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_2085.jpg?resize=239%2C317",tags:["Assorted & Sundry"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/belmontmansioncollections/"},{slug:"when-inspiration-strikes-guest-blogger-margaret-brownley",title:"When Inspiration Strikes (Guest Blogger: Margaret Brownley)",date:"2014-05-29",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"Several years ago, I drove to Santa Barbara unaware that a truck had dumped a load of nails onto the 101 freeway. By the time I spotted the scattered cargo it was too late. I ended up with fourâyes four!âflat tires. Asâ¦",content:`<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/sign.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignright wp-image-1278 size-medium" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/w
1252p-content/uploads/2014/05/sign-250x151.jpg?resize=250%2C151" alt="sign" width="250" height="151" /></a>Several years ago, I drove to Santa Barbara unaware that a truck had dumped a load of nails onto the 101 freeway. By the time I spotted the scattered cargo it was too late. I ended up with fourâyes four!âflat tires. As my son and I waited on the side of the road for the Auto Club he asked, “Mom, are you going to use this in a book?</p> 1253<p><strong>Ah, inspiration. It can hit anytime, anywhere</strong> and sometimes when you least expect it. Boom. Bang. Fireworks! That’s part of the fun and delight of being a writer. No matter what happens good or bad there’s always the possibility that a story will pop out of it. That goes double for vacations.</p> 1254<p>During a trip to Paris, my husband and I enjoyed a moonlight cruise along the Seine. It was a scene right out of a Harlequin novel. That is until disaster struck. As we emerged from beneath a bridge, a bunch of hooligans dumped barrels of motor oil on our boat, creating havoc.</p> 1255<p>Fortunately, no one was seriously hurt, but what a mess! The fun began when the boat docked. Irate travelers stormed onto shore screaming in what seemed like fifty different languages at the befuddled ownerâan enormous Asian man who arrived on a mini-cycle.</p> 1256<p><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignright wp-image-1311" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-Shot-2014-05-23-at-10.20.51-PM-316x750.png?resize=203%2C482" alt="Screen Shot 2014-05-23 at 10.20.51 PM" width="203" height="482" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-Shot-2014-05-23-at-10.20.51-PM.png?resize=316%2C750&ssl=1 316w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-Shot-2014-05-23-at-10.20.51-PM.png?resize=105%2C250&ssl=1 105w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-Shot-2014-05-23-at-10.20.51-PM.png?w=500&ssl=1 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 203px) 100vw, 203px" />Now, I ask you. What better place for a writer than Paris at midnight surrounded by a mob of enraged foreigners? While the others ranted and raved about ruined clothes, I stood reveling in a new story idea. At one point my husband pulled me aside and told me to stop smiling. He worried that the others would think I’d planned the whole affair.</p> 1257<p> </p> 1258<p><strong>Not all inspiration can be found in the form of disaster.<br /> 1259</strong></p> 1260<p>A chance remark by a friend over lunch gave me the basis for a story about a woman who regained her hearing after twenty-five years. A visit to the dentist helped me work out a plot problem by way of an article in an old magazine. A group of children playing in the park gave me an idea for a pivotal scene.</p> 1261<p>An early dictionary defined the word inspiration as an immediate influence of God. The word also means to breath in, inhale. If what Thomas Merton said is true about <strong>“Every moment and every event of every man’s life on earth planting something in his soul,”</strong> then even mundane happenings can be turned into poems, books, music, art and even scientific discoveries.</p> 1262<p><strong>All we have to do is pay attention and breathe.<br /> 1263</strong></p> 1264<p>Of course, as every creative person well knows, a light bulb moment is only the beginning. Sir Isaac Newton’s inspiration came from an apple falling from a tree, but it took a lifetime to fully develop the science of mechanics which explains the force of gravity.</p> 1265<p>Inspiration is nothing more than an idea that hasn’t been put to work. Once an idea is in hand a writer must then go after the story, sometimes with a sledgehammer. Thatâs what Rod Serling called the bleeding part.</p> 1266<p>Who knows? One day I might even hammer out a story from those four flat tires.</p> 1267<p><strong><span style="color: #1f497d;"> Do you have a favorite âlight bulbâ moment? </span><span style="color: #1f497d;"> </span><span style="color: #1f497d;">If not, where do you get your best ideas?</span></strong></p> 1268<p>Margaret</p> 1269<p>
1269<a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Margaret.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft wp-image-1277 size-thumbnail" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Margaret-150x150.jpg?resize=150%2C150" alt="Margaret" width="150" height="150" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Margaret.jpg?resize=150%2C150&ssl=1 150w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Margaret.jpg?zoom=2&resize=150%2C150&ssl=1 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 150px) 100vw, 150px" /></a>N.Y. Times bestselling author Margaret Brownley has published more than thirty books and is a former Romance Writers of America RITA© finalist. She also wrote for a daytime soap and currently has a story in the Four Weddings and a Kiss collection. A Nutcracker Bride will be published in October followed by Book one in her Undercover Ladies series, Petticoat Bride. Not bad for someone who flunked eighth grade English. Just don’t ask her to diagram a sentence.</p> 1270<p><span style="color: #993300;"><strong><a href="www.margaret-brownley.com\u2028" target="_blank">Visit Margaret’s website</a></strong></span></p> 1271<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/4WedKiss_final_slider_675.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1316" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/4WedKiss_final_slider_675.png?resize=675%2C302" alt="4WedKiss_final_slider_675" width="675" height="302" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/4WedKiss_final_slider_675.png?w=675&ssl=1 675w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/4WedKiss_final_slider_675.png?resize=250%2C112&ssl=1 250w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 675px) 100vw, 675px" /></a></p> 1272<p> </p> 1273<p> </p> 1274<p> </p> 1275<p><span style="color: #ff0000;"><strong>And the winner is⦠Dianna Auton!</strong></span></p> 1276<p><strong><span style="color: #ff0000;">Dianna, if you’ll send Margaret your snail mail address <a href="http://www.margaret-brownley.com/contact/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ff0000;">through this contact link</span></a>, she’ll send you your autographed copy of the book!</span></strong></p> 1277<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-Shot-2014-05-30-at-9.01.19-PM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-1368 aligncenter" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-Shot-2014-05-30-at-9.01.19-PM.png?resize=575%2C138" alt="Screen Shot 2014-05-30 at 9.01.19 PM" width="575" height="138" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-Shot-2014-05-30-at-9.01.19-PM.png?w=1592&ssl=1 1592w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-Shot-2014-05-30-at-9.01.19-PM.png?resize=250%2C60&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-Shot-2014-05-30-at-9.01.19-PM.png?resize=750%2C180&ssl=1 750w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 575px) 100vw, 575px" /></a></p> 1278<p> </p> 1279`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/sign-250x151.jpg?resize=250%2C151",tags:["Assorted & Sundry"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/when-inspiration-strikes/"},{slug:"favorite-quotes-from-christian-novels",title:"Favorite Quotes from Christian Novels",date:"2014-05-20",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"I recently had the awesome experience of working with a launch team for A Beauty So Rare, the second standalone novel in the Belmont Mansion series. And oh, what fun it was! Iâm honored that the nearly 60 bloggers wereâ¦",content:`<p><strong><span style="color: #800080;">I recently had the awesome experience of working with a launch team for </span><em style="color: #800080;">A Beauty So Rare, </em><span style="color: #800080;">the second standalone novel in the Belmont Mansion series. And oh, what fun it was!</span></strong></p> 1280<p><strong><span style="color: #800080;"><em><a href="http://www.tameraalexander.com/books.html" target="_blank"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignright wp-image-1067" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/w
1280p-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-Shot-2014-05-08-at-10.47.21-AM1-589x750.png?resize=266%2C339" alt="Screen Shot 2014-05-08 at 10.47.21 AM" width="266" height="339" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-Shot-2014-05-08-at-10.47.21-AM1.png?resize=589%2C750&ssl=1 589w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-Shot-2014-05-08-at-10.47.21-AM1.png?resize=196%2C250&ssl=1 196w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-Shot-2014-05-08-at-10.47.21-AM1.png?w=908&ssl=1 908w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 266px) 100vw, 266px" /></a></em></span></strong></p> 1281<p>I’m honored that the nearly 60 bloggers were interested in partnering with me to help get the word out about this novel, and I enjoyed each minute of our chatting and sharing.</p> 1282<p>As part of the process, I created a private Facebook group where we could post, comment, upload shareable files, etc…</p> 1283<p>It was so encouraging to see how eager they were to help each other and to promote each other’s blogs. And talk about great blogs! These gals do such a great job of introducing new fiction to their readers with freshness and without spoiling the plot or fictive dream.</p> 1284<p>One of the launch team’s “calls-to-action” was to share a quote from<em> A Beauty So Rare</em> that stood out to them as they read. And, in true stellar fashion, these bloggers really went above and beyond.</p> 1285<p><span style="color: #800080;"><strong>They shared not only their favorite quotesââseveral of them more than oneââbut they made Pinterest pins for them. I’m so grateful.</strong></span></p> 1286<p> </p> 1287<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/a_beauty_so_rare_quote.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-1062" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/a_beauty_so_rare_quote-750x750.png?resize=515%2C515" alt="a_beauty_so_rare_quote" width="515" height="515" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/a_beauty_so_rare_quote.png?resize=750%2C750&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/a_beauty_so_rare_quote.png?resize=150%2C150&ssl=1 150w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/a_beauty_so_rare_quote.png?resize=250%2C250&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/a_beauty_so_rare_quote.png?resize=350%2C350&ssl=1 350w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/a_beauty_so_rare_quote.png?w=1600&ssl=1 1600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 515px) 100vw, 515px" /></a></p> 1288<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/1510664_735710579812510_3944413837751430283_n.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-1061" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/1510664_735710579812510_3944413837751430283_n-750x571.jpg?resize=525%2C400" alt="1510664_735710579812510_3944413837751430283_n" width="525" height="400" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/1510664_735710579812510_3944413837751430283_n.jpg?resize=750%2C571&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/1510664_735710579812510_3944413837751430283_n.jpg?resize=250%2C190&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/1510664_735710579812510_3944413837751430283_n.jpg?w=960&ssl=1 960w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 525px) 100vw, 525px" /></a></p> 1289<p> </p> 1290<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/A_Beauty_So_Rare_Share_Square_1.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-1063" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/w
1290p-content/uploads/2014/05/A_Beauty_So_Rare_Share_Square_1-750x750.jpg?resize=501%2C501" alt="A_Beauty_So_Rare_Share_Square_1" width="501" height="501" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/A_Beauty_So_Rare_Share_Square_1.jpg?resize=750%2C750&ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/A_Beauty_So_Rare_Share_Square_1.jpg?resize=150%2C150&ssl=1 150w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/A_Beauty_So_Rare_Share_Square_1.jpg?resize=250%2C250&ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/A_Beauty_So_Rare_Share_Square_1.jpg?resize=350%2C350&ssl=1 350w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/A_Beauty_So_Rare_Share_Square_1.jpg?w=900&ssl=1 900w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 501px) 100vw, 501px" /></a></p> 1291<p> </p> 1292<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.tameraalexander.com/upcomingreleases.html" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #800080;">Click to view all the pins</span></strong></a></p> 1293<p> </p> 1294<p>If you’re looking for blogs that give honest, unbiased reviews of Christian fiction, <a href="http://www.tameraalexander.com/upcomingreleases.html" target="_blank">then check out these bloggers</a>. You won’t be disappointed.</p> 1295<p><strong><span style="color: #800080;">And now, a chance for <em>you</em> to share!</span></strong></p> 1296<p><span style="color: #800080;"><strong>Would you grab the novel you’re reading now (or a recent read) and share a sentence that struck a chord with you as you read (<em>careful</em>, no spoilers!)?</strong> </span>Or perhaps share a sentence you underlined as you lingered over a passage? (Yes, I underline in my novels, both in print and on my Kindle PaperWhite, <em>don’t you</em>?) : )  Please be sure to include the title of the book and the author.</p> 1297<p>I’ve often picked up a novel I’ve never heard of before based solely on someone sharing a passage like this. Who knows, you might discover a new read!</p> 1298<p>Tammy</p> 1299<p> </p> 1300<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-Shot-2014-05-08-at-10.23.42-AM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft wp-image-1055" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-Shot-2014-05-08-at-10.23.42-AM-250x86.png?resize=207%2C71" alt="Screen Shot 2014-05-08 at 10.23.42 AM" width="207" height="71" /></a></p> 1301<p>Are you interested in being part of Bethany House’s Blogger Review Program? <a href="http://bakerpublishinggroup.com/bethanyhouse/bookreviewers" target="_blank">Click for details on joining.</a></p> 1302<p> </p> 1303<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/tameraauthor/favorite-quotes-from-christian-fiction/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #800080;">Check out this Pinterest board that’s dedicated to favorite lines from Christian novels</span></strong></a></p> 1304<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/PinterestFavQuotesChristianFic.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-1057" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/PinterestFavQuotesChristianFic-750x697.jpg?resize=649%2C603" alt="PinterestFavQuotesChristianFic" width="649" height="603" /></a></p> 1305`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-Shot-2014-05-08-at-10.47.21-AM1-589x750.png?resize=266%2C339",tags:["Assorted & Sundry","Reading"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/favoritequotesfromchristiannovels/"},{slug:"author-event-tamera-alexander-10-25-14",title:"Author Event: Tamera Alexander (10/25/14)",date:"2014-05-06",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"Saturday, October 25, 2014 Franklin Pumpkinfest Landmark Booksellers 12PM â 2PM Franklin, TN (20 mins from downtown Nashville) Donât miss the fabulou
1305s Pumpkinfest in downtown Franklin, TN. Iâll be there signing copiesâ¦",content:`<h1 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #ff6600;">Saturday, October 25, 2014</span></h1> 1306<h1 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #ff6600;">Franklin <em>Pumpkinfest</em></span></h1> 1307<h1 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #ff6600;">Landmark Booksellers</span></h1> 1308<h1 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #ff6600;">12PM – 2PM </span></h1> 1309<h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #ff6600;">Franklin, TN (20 mins from downtown Nashville)</span></h2> 1310<p> </p> 1311<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #ffe09f;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-Shot-2014-05-06-at-2.40.42-PM1.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-1030" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-Shot-2014-05-06-at-2.40.42-PM1-750x561.png?resize=553%2C413" alt="Screen Shot 2014-05-06 at 2.40.42 PM" width="553" height="413" /></a></span></h3> 1312<h4><span style="color: #993300;">Don’t miss the fabulous Pumpkinfest in downtown Franklin, TN. I’ll be there signing copies of my Southern mansion novels at <a style="font-weight: bold; color: #ffecc5;" href="http://landmarkbooksellers.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #993300;">Landmark Booksellers</span></a> and will be giving away some of Eleanor Braddock’s favorite recipes from<em> A Beauty So Rare. </em>It’d be a great weekend to see the Belmont Mansion and Belle Meade Plantation, too.</span></h4> 1313`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-Shot-2014-05-06-at-2.40.42-PM1-750x561.png?resize=553%2C413",tags:["Past E&G"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/author-event-tamera-alexander-102514/"},{slug:"author-event-tamera-alexander-9-13-14",title:"Author Event: Tamera Alexander (9/13/14)",date:"2014-05-06",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"Saturday, September 13, 2014 Speaking and Book Signing Event Murfreesboro, TN Location being confirmed 10:00AM â 11:30AM Iâm looking forward to being with readers in Murfreesboro, TN (about 30 minutes south ofâ¦",content:`<p style="color: #000000; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #993366;"><strong>Saturday, September 13, 2014<br /> 1314Speaking and Book Signing Event<br /> 1315Murfreesboro, TN<br /> 1316Location being confirmed<br /> 1317</strong><strong>10:00AM – 11:30AM</strong></span></p> 1318<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-Shot-2014-05-06-at-2.33.33-PM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-1025" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-Shot-2014-05-06-at-2.33.33-PM.png?resize=317%2C209" alt="Screen Shot 2014-05-06 at 2.33.33 PM" width="317" height="209" loading="lazy" /></a></p> 1319<p style="color: #ffe09f;"><span style="color: #000000;">I’m looking forward to being with readers in Murfreesboro, TN (about 30 minutes south of Nashville) for a morning of talking writing, Nashville history, and all things related to story. The presentation will be followed by a book signing. Feel free to bring your own books, and books will also be available for sale. </span><span style="color: #000000;">More details forthcoming about the event and location. </span></p> 1320`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-Shot-2014-05-06-at-2.33.33-PM.png?resize=317%2C209",tags:["Past E&G"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/author-event-tamera-alexander-61314/"},{slug:"an-unexpected-blessing",title:"An unexpected blessing",date:"2014-05-06",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"Quick! Whatâs an unexpected blessing in your life right now? A blessing you didnât foresee. Maybe something you thought was going to be really good, but then it turned out to be even better than you ever dreamed! Orâ¦",content:`<p><span style="color: #800080;"> <strong>Quick! What’s an <em>unexpected</em> blessing in your life right now? </strong></span></p> 1321<p>A blessing you didn’t foresee. Maybe something you thought was going to be really good, but then it turned out to be even better than you ever dreamed! Or perhaps it’s something you didn’t even dream of, and now you marvel at what a gift God has given you.</p> 1322<p>That’s how I feel about <em>you</em>!</p> 1323<p>When I first started writing, I was just concentrating on trying to give God my best and just get the story done. Little did I realize what a magnificent blessing and encouragement my relationships with reader friends would be.</p> 1324<p>Recently, Landmark Booksellers, a beautiful antique book store in downtown Franklin (a quaint, historic town just 20 minutes from Nashville) invited me to sign books at the Franklin Main Street Festival, an event that draws over 100,000 people to the town over the course of the weekend, and oh… I had an absolutely blast! I was supposed to stay for about an hour and stayed for nearly four!</p> 1325<p>
1325<a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-Shot-2014-05-05-at-11.01.29-AM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-975" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-Shot-2014-05-05-at-11.01.29-AM-750x716.png?resize=513%2C490" alt="Screen Shot 2014-05-05 at 11.01.29 AM" width="513" height="490" loading="lazy" /></a></p> 1326<p> </p> 1327<p>People kept stopping by, some just to chat and find out what the books were about. Others wanted to know if the novels were really about “the real Belmont Mansion and Belle Meade Plantation in Nashville.” (Answer: <em>Yes</em>!) We talked history, heritage, iced cold lemonade, kettle corn warm and delicious from the kettle, and so many other things.</p> 1328<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-Shot-2014-05-05-at-11.01.00-AM3.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-981" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-Shot-2014-05-05-at-11.01.00-AM3-656x750.png?resize=514%2C587" alt="Screen Shot 2014-05-05 at 11.01.00 AM" width="514" height="587" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-Shot-2014-05-05-at-11.01.00-AM3.png?resize=656%2C750&ssl=1 656w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-Shot-2014-05-05-at-11.01.00-AM3.png?resize=219%2C250&ssl=1 219w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-Shot-2014-05-05-at-11.01.00-AM3.png?w=1064&ssl=1 1064w" sizes="(max-width: 514px) 100vw, 514px" loading="lazy" /></a></p> 1329<p> </p> 1330<p>When I left that afternoon, I felt so full inside. So blessed by those who came. And I feel that way when we share here online, or when I see you in a local restaurant, or at a conference, or at one of the mansions when I’m dropping something off.</p> 1331<p><span style="color: #800080;"><strong>The relationships we share are an unexpected blessing from my writing career. Andâ¦I thank you!</strong></span></p> 1332<p><span style="color: #800080;"><strong>Now tell me⦠What’s an unexpected blessing in your life? </strong></span></p> 1333<p>Tammy</p> 1334<p>P.S. I spoke in Henderson, TN at Freed-Hardeman last night so am currently on my way back to Nashville. Prayers for safe travel appreciated, and I’ll check in later this afternoon once I’m back.</p> 1335<p>In case you missed it, here’s a recipe you don’t want to miss!</p> 1336<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800080;"><a title="Eleanor Braddock's Buttermilk Pie" href="http://tameraalexander.blogspot.com/2014/04/buttermilk-pie-from-beauty-so-rare.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #800080;"><strong>Eleanor Braddock’s Southern Buttermilk Pie</strong></span></a></span></p> 1337<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-Shot-2014-05-05-at-10.50.10-AM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-982" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-Shot-2014-05-05-at-10.50.10-AM-633x750.png?resize=487%2C577" alt="Screen Shot 2014-05-05 at 10.50.10 AM" width="487" height="577" /></a></p> 1338<p> </p> 1339<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.tameraalexander.com/recipes.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ff0000;"><strong>Grab more delicious recipes from my novels</strong></span></a></p> 1340<p> </p> 1341<p style="text-align: center;">If you make this, be sure and send me a picture or post it on my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/tamera.alexander?ref=hl" target="_blank">Facebook page</a>. And yes, Patti Jo, that means you! ; )</p> 1342`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Screen-Shot-2014-05-05-at-11.01.29-AM-750x716.png?resize=513%2C490",tags:["Assorted & Sundry","Recipes"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/unexpected-blessing/"},{slug:"reflections-on-an-empty-page-guest-blogger-janice-thompson",title:"Reflections on an Empty Page (Guest blogger Janice Thompson)",date:"2014-04-30",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"As I sit with pen in hand, ready to face the stark, white reality of the empty page, I find myself
1342consumed with thoughts that pull me away from my task. âAm I writing out of passion?â I wonder, âor am I writing to fillâ¦",content:`<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Janice2-247x300.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignright size-thumbnail wp-image-901" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Janice2-247x300-150x150.jpg?resize=150%2C150" alt="Janice2-247x300" width="150" height="150" /></a></p> 1343<p>As I sit with pen in hand, ready to face the stark, white reality of the empty page, I find myself consumed with thoughts that pull me away from my task. âAm I writing out of passion?â I wonder, âor am I writing to fill a need?â</p> 1344<p>The question brings instantaneous guilt. It also sends my mind off in a thousand different directions.</p> 1345<p>I canât help but think of <span style="color: #000080;">Laura Ingalls Wilder</span> in her prairie home, eyes darting across the rough pages as her crude pen scribbles and scratches, and I feel like a traitor. My fingers tiptoe across near-silent keys as I write.</p> 1346<p>My mind roams to <span style="color: #000080;">Thoreau</span>, strolling in blissful silence through the sanctuary of his wilderness homeâbreathing in, giving outâand I realize that I havenât even stepped outside to check the mail yet today.</p> 1347<p>I drift to <span style="color: #000080;">Louisa May Alcott</span>, that adventurous soul, who dared to imagine that her ink-stained hands could push open doors in a manâs world, and I glance down at my finely manicured nails, completely clean, yet completely stained with guilt.</p> 1348<p>My mind gravitates toward <span style="color: #000080;">George Orwell,</span> who sought to change his world by writing something so bold, so unique that readers for generations to come would study the complexities of its simplicity, and I am forced to admit that I am out of touch with the world around me.</p> 1349<p>I imagine <span style="color: #000080;">Shakespeare</span> acting out his plays in his head as he scribbles, scribbles, scribbles away. Enter Puck, Stage Left. Enter Hermia, Stage Right. I recognize that my own characters havenât spoken to me in quite some time.</p> 1350<p>I recall the story of <span style="color: #000080;">Emily Dickinson</span>, so withdrawn, so melancholy, and yet so full of verse that she would flip the world of poetry up on its ear, and I realize that Iâve never graduated beyond the simplest of poetic forms.</p> 1351<p>I ponder the writings of <span style="color: #000080;">Herman Melville</span>, a man tormented by allegorical beast, tossing and turning on the sea of life, and must admit that I havenât used an educated adjective in days.</p> 1352<p>I wonder at the imagination of a <span style="color: #000080;">Franz Kafka</span>, in whose clever characters I often find myself hidden, and recognize that my creative juices are in much need of a spin around the juicer.</p> 1353<p>It is in these moments, as the paper moves from stark white to blur, that I thank God for placing the desire to write in me. Guilt shifts. Reality convenes. I am a writer. I am passionate. I am fanning the flame. I am so grateful to be counted among those who, in touching pen to paper, hope to impact their world.</p> 1354<p>My fingers begin to dance across the keys, silent no more. The race has begun. Yes, others have run that race before me. They have cast a shimmer of light on the road that I now travel. For that, I am forever grateful. But there is plenty of road ahead for one like me.</p> 1355<p><span style="color: #000080;"><strong>When you see a blank piece of paper, what do you feel compelled to do?</strong></span></p> 1356<p>Janice</p> 1357<p><strong>About Janice:<a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/book-the-dream-dress-194x300.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-902" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/book-the-dream-dress-194x300-161x250.jpg?resize=161%2C250" alt="book-the-dream-dress-194x300" width="161" height="250" /></a><br /> 1358</strong>Award-winning author Janice Thompson also writes under the pseudonym Janice Hanna. She got her start in the industry writing screenplays and musical comedies for the stage. Janice has published over one hundred books for the Christian market, crossing genre lines to write cozy mysteries, historicals, romances, nonfiction books, devotionals, childrenâs books and more. She particularly enjoys writing light-hearted, comedic tales because she enjoys making readers laugh. In addition, she enjoys public speaking and mentoring young writers.</p> 1359<p>Janice is passionate about her faith and does all she can to share the joy of the Lord with others, which is why she particularly enjoys writing. Her tagline, âLove, Laughter, and Happily Ever Afters!â sums up her take on life.<br /> 1360She lives in Spring, Texas, where she leads a rich life with her family, a host of writing friends, and two mischievous dachshunds. She does her best to keep the Lord at the center of it all. <a href="www.janiceathompson.com%20" target="_blank">Learn more about Janice</a>.</p> 1361<p><em>Thanks for joining us today, Janice!</em></p> 1362`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/w
1362p-content/uploads/2014/04/Janice2-247x300-150x150.jpg?resize=150%2C150",tags:["Assorted & Sundry"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/reflections-empty-page-guest-blogger-janice-thompson/"},{slug:"if-this-writing-gig-doesn-t-pan-out-guest-blogger-regina-jennings",title:"If this Writing Gig Doesnât Pan Out⦠(Guest Blogger, Regina Jennings)",date:"2014-04-29",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"Author Regina Jennings Every adult needs a skill set that makes them valuable and employable. Sure, I love being an author, but there are no guarantees in this business. If this doesnât last I must have something toâ¦",content:`<div id="attachment_575" style="width: 160px" class="wp-caption alignright"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Twitter-Profile-682x1024-2.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-575" class="size-thumbnail wp-image-575 " src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/w
1362p-content/uploads/2014/04/Twitter-Profile-682x1024-2-150x150.jpg?resize=150%2C150" alt="Twitter Profile (682x1024) (2)" width="150" height="150" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Twitter-Profile-682x1024-2.jpg?resize=150%2C150&ssl=1 150w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Twitter-Profile-682x1024-2.jpg?resize=350%2C350&ssl=1 350w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Twitter-Profile-682x1024-2.jpg?zoom=2&resize=150%2C150&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Twitter-Profile-682x1024-2.jpg?zoom=3&resize=150%2C150&ssl=1 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 150px) 100vw, 150px" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-575" class="wp-caption-text">Author Regina Jennings</p></div> 1363<p>Every adult needs a skill set that makes them valuable and employable. Sure, I love being an author, but there are no guarantees in this business. If this doesnât last I must have something to fall back on, some skill I can rely on to contribute to the family coffers. Thatâs why I keep my training current so Iâm prepared to, in an emergency, go back to the lucrative career of…weighing pigs.</p> 1364<p>This is my dad. My whole life he’s been a livestock order-buyer. When the kids were small <span style="line-height: 1.5em;">and before homeschooling became a full-time job, I worked three mornings a week with him at the stockyards. The industry has changed over the years with fewer small farmers and more corporate customers, but every spring finds him in desperate need of help, and I answer the call.</span></p> 1365<div id="attachment_578" style="width: 260px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Dad-at-Stockyards.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-578" class="size-medium wp-image-578 " src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Dad-at-Stockyards-250x187.jpg?resize=250%2C187" alt="Dad at Stockyards" width="250" height="187" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-578" class="wp-caption-text">Dad at the Stockyards</p></div> 1366<p>You see, Dad isnât a farmer or a butcher. He’s the one who brings them together. Packing houses specialize in certain cuts of meat, but a farmer has pigs of every size, gender and condition. Order buyers get orders from the packing house for a precise number of animals of a preferred size. Then they have to find those animals to fill their order. Sometimes there are more animals than orders. Sometimes they have to search for animals to fill the trucks. Supply and demand – the literal “Stock Market”.</p> 1367<p>Pigs (as well as most livestock) are bought and sold <span style="line-height: 1.5em;">by the pound, so we have to know what they weigh.</span></p> 1368<div id="attachment_581" style="width: 260px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/ONSY-scales.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-581" class="size-medium wp-image-581" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/ONSY-scales-250x187.jpg?resize=250%2C187" alt="ONSY scales" width="250" height="187" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-581" class="wp-caption-text">ONSY Scales</p></div> 1369<p>This is my station when I’m helping Dad. Iâm the Weighmaster. It might sound like an exercise device sold by Suzanne Somers, but the weighmaster is responsible for paying the farmers a fair amount. The scale must be kept balanced and the weight tickets must be filled out correctly so the farmers are paid for their hogs – and no one else’s.</p> 1370<div id="attachment_580" style="width: 260px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Gina-at-Stockyards.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-580" class="size-medium wp-image-580 " src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/w
1370p-content/uploads/2014/04/Gina-at-Stockyards-250x187.jpg?resize=250%2C187" alt="Gina at Stockyards" width="250" height="187" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-580" class="wp-caption-text">So I ask my dad to take a picture of me at work and do you know what he says? “Don’t you think you should’ve put on some make-up and done your hair?”<br />Excuse me? To work at the Stockyards?</p></div> 1371<p><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">This is my keyboard…</span></p> 1372<div id="attachment_579" style="width: 260px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Dirty-Keyboard.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-579" class="size-medium wp-image-579" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Dirty-Keyboard-250x187.jpg?resize=250%2C187" alt="Dirty Keyboard" width="250" height="187" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-579" class="wp-caption-text">I’m afraid if I used this keyboard to write I’d end up with a dirty book. Ha, ha! OK, no more corny jokes.</p></div> 1373<p><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">This is my walkway to the office…
1373</span></p> 1374<div id="attachment_577" style="width: 260px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Catwalk.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-577" class="size-medium wp-image-577" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Catwalk-250x187.jpg?resize=250%2C187" alt="Catwalk" width="250" height="187" /></a><p id="caption-attachment-577" class="wp-caption-text">That’s not confetti on the catwalk. It’s pigeon decoration.</p></div> 1375<p style="text-align: left;"> <span style="line-height: 1.5em;">So forgive me if I didn’t dress up enough for this post. At least the pictures aren’t scratch and sniff.</span></p> 1376<p>Thanks for letting me share my second career choice with you. Do you have any secret skill or unique career youâd like to tell us about?</p> 1377<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Pigs.jpg"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-582" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Pigs-250x119.jpg?resize=250%2C119" alt="Pigs" width="250" height="119" /></a></p> 1378<p> </p> 1379<p>~Regina</p> 1380<p><a title="Author Regina Jennings" href="http://www.reginajennings.com" target="_blank">Connect with Regina on her website</a><em> (And thanks, Regina, for this hysterical â and heartwarming â post)</em></p> 1381<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Screen-Shot-2014-04-05-at-9.20.01-PM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-572" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Screen-Shot-2014-04-05-at-9.20.01-PM-750x255.png?resize=450%2C153" alt="Regina Jennings Books" width="450" height="153" /></a></p> 1382`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Twitter-Profile-682x1024-2-150x150.jpg?resize=150%2C150",tags:["Assorted & Sundry"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/writing-gig-doesnt-pan-guest-blogger-regina-jennings/"},{slug:"winner-of-the-inspired-by-life-and-fiction-giveaway",title:"Winner of the Inspired by Lifeâ¦and Fiction Giveaway",date:"2014-04-16",category:"Author Life",excerpt:"Thanks to everyone who entered the Inspired by Lifeâ¦and Fiction giveaway during the past week. Weâre so grateful youâre all a part of the community here. We love sharing life with you! And nowâ¦for the winner of thisâ¦",content:`<p>Thanks to everyone who entered the <em>Inspired by Lifeâ¦and Fiction</em> giveaway during the past week. We’re so grateful you’re all a part of the community here. We <em>love</em> sharing life with you!</p> 1383<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #ff0000;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">And nowâ¦for the winner of this giveaway, scroll down.</span></strong></span></p> 1384<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Screen-Shot-2014-04-15-at-10.30.50-PM1.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-676" alt="Screen Shot 2014-04-15 at 10.30.50 PM" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Screen-Shot-2014-04-15-at-10.30.50-PM1.png?resize=328%2C452" width="328" height="452" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Screen-Shot-2014-04-15-at-10.30.50-PM1.png?w=547&ssl=1 547w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Screen-Shot-2014-04-15-at-10.30.50-PM1.png?resize=182%2C250&ssl=1 182w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Screen-Shot-2014-04-15-at-10.30.50-PM1.png?resize=545%2C750&ssl=1 545w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 328px) 100vw, 328px" /></a></p> 1385<p><em><strong><span style="line-height: 1.5em;"> </span></strong></em></p> 1386<p style="text-align: left;">
1386<a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Screen-Shot-2014-04-15-at-11.44.33-PM.png"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-677" alt="Screen Shot 2014-04-15 at 11.44.33 PM" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Screen-Shot-2014-04-15-at-11.44.33-PM.png?resize=461%2C362" width="461" height="362" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Screen-Shot-2014-04-15-at-11.44.33-PM.png?w=659&ssl=1 659w, https://i0.wp.com/inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Screen-Shot-2014-04-15-at-11.44.33-PM.png?resize=250%2C196&ssl=1 250w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 461px) 100vw, 461px" /></a><br /> 1387Cynthia, please let me hear from you quickly (I just sent you an email, so simply respond to that), and we’ll coordinate getting your books to you.</p> 1388<p style="text-align: left;">Thanks again to everyone for enteringââand for reading!</p> 1389<p style="text-align: left;">Tamera</p> 1390`,featuredImage:"https://i0.wp.com/www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Screen-Shot-2014-04-15-at-10.30.50-PM1.png?resize=328%2C452",tags:["Past E&G"],originalLink:"https://inspiredbylifeandfiction.com/winner-inspired-lifeand-fiction-giveaway/"}];export{e as default};
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