For me, it has never been about being a perfect writer.
For me, writing is a tool for something greater.
Pictured here are some of my favorite authors I have had the privilege to meet.  What sets them apart to me is, their mission was never to be a famous author - but to use the craft of writing to share the messages of their lives - the testimony of God in their lives. Each has honed their craft using language, story, humor, and imagination to  help readers understand for themselves the goodness of God. Each has influenced me to be brave in my sharing, and to take risks, trusting God with writing and life. I am very thankful for them and so many other authors who fill my early mornings with hope and inspiration.

I was in my twenties when I realized it was OK to be me. Up until then, I tried so hard to fit into the expectations of those I love. I trusted they really knew me; knew what was best; knew what I should do and how I should act and where I should live and what work I should do.

Rick and I had a musical weekend! Saturday we went to a "Brewgrass Festival"  in a popular Denver neighborhood. We enjoyed bluegrass music (our fav) along with thousands of others packed like sardines up close to the stage. Then Sunday, we were shopping for flowers at our local nursery. A fiddle player and drummer were there to entertain shoppers. (Brilliant!) When they played John Lennon's "Imagine," I couldn't help but sing along while picking out my Snapdragons.

My friend, Victoria, and I meet regularly at a local bookstore coffee shop and mentor each other about our dreams, new businesses, and writing. We often get so exuberant in our conversation that I am sure there must be eavesdroppers. We just cannot help it. Life is good when we meet with a friend. There is power in the relationship, and I believe we release joy and peace in the atmosphere around us. At least - I hope we do. We are in the last third of our lifespan - yet we are dreaming as if we were young women about to embark on our life's greatest adventure.

Funny thing about roses.  They actually love discipline. The more I prune them, the better they look and grow. The more I encourage the ones that haven't bloomed for awhile - the more likely they are to bloom profusely the next season. The more I sweet talk them, the prettier the flowers. The more I nourish them, the better they like me. Still - they are a thorn in my side for much of the season. But I WILL NOT give up! I love them!​