BLESSED DiaBlog

One Million Arrows: Raising Your Children to Change the World by Julie Ferwerda

karenejordan@sbcglobal.net (Karen Jordan) — Sun, 07 Mar 2010 00:33:00 GMT

"Will the world change our children...or will our children change the world?" (Julie Ferwerda, One Million Arrows)

Christian author Julie Ferwerda inspired me to consider this question as I reviewed her newest book, One Million Arrows: Raising Your Children to Change the World. Ferwerda casts a vision for parents who want their family to live with purpose, passion, and to be counted among the heroes in the pages of "His Story." She also issues a timely call for Christian families to get involved in the care of orphaned children worldwide.

"ALL profits from the book go to international orphan care and ministry, including our personal work with orphans in Haiti!" (

Based on Psalm 127:3-5, where children are described as "arrows in the hands of a Mighty Warrior," this book inspires and creatively equips parents to raise "sharp arrows" who accept the mission to make Kingdom work a priority now and throughout their lives.

Testimonies. Using a generous supply of inspiring testimonies of both families and young people worldwide who are currently being used by God in mighty ways, author Julie Ferwerda offers three stages of raising kingdom-minded kids: gather, sharpen, and launch.

"Gather up the children—your own, others in your circle of influence and, if possible, broken children who need a family. Sharpen them in the Word, raising them as disciples of Jesus. Launch them into the world, ready to use their God-given gifts, talents, and resources in order to make a difference for the Kingdom" (Julie Ferwerda, OMA).

Missions. Interwoven throughout the book is also a call for families to get involved in the care and spiritual development of orphaned children worldwide who are being rescued, discipled, and spiritually trained to be launched back into their own countries with the life-changing Gospel.

"God has called His people to leave a legacy of godliness for the next generation. One Million Arrows picks up on that high calling and casts a God-sized vision for parents who long to see their children used by God in mighty ways. I believe it will motivate you to invest in the lives of orphans and it will challenge you to raise your children as ambassadors for Christ rather than casualties of the culture-war" (Dennis Rainey, President, FamilyLife).

Interview with author Julie Ferwerda

1. The title of your book is, One Million Arrows: What is that all about? The title originated with a man I met in India by the name of Dr. M.A. Thomas. He’s received many national awards in India such as the Mother Theresa Award and the Padma Shri for his humanitarian efforts, especially for his work with orphaned and abandoned children that he started in the 1970s. In the 90s, Dr. Thomas read a verse in the Bible that describes children as a gift and a reward, like sharp arrows in the hands of a mighty warrior (Psalm 127:3-5). He realized that all children, regardless of background and circumstances, should be seen as a gift and a legacy to society because they can make a significant and positive impact in the world if given the proper training and opportunities.

India has as many as 80 million orphans so he set a goal of rescuing one million orphaned and abandoned children, sharpening them with love, education, and spiritual nurturing, and launching them back into society to bring positive change through the power of the Good News about Jesus. To date he has raised over 16,000 orphaned and abandoned children who have become doctors, nurses, teachers, politicians, missionaries, and leaders, and he has planted over 21,000 churches in India and South Asia.

Relating to us…the arrow vision of raising children to be a gift and heritage to their society is for all parents, all countries. So many parents in our culture have lost their vision as to the incredible opportunity we’ve been given to shape—not just tomorrow’s leaders—but today’s leaders and shapers of their peer groups, schools, and communities. But this takes vision and deliberate investment and training. One Million Arrows casts a vision for parents to sharpen and launch our children right now to make a positive impact on society.

2. You mentioned the notion of parents investing in or training their children. Isn’t this what parents already do? Some parents do invest in and train their children to some degree, but there is also a lot of hands-off parenting in our society today, especially in training character development as well as teaching our children how to live for the big-picture—like what were they made to do in this world, what are their unique gifts and abilities, and how can they use them to make a difference now?

We have to train our children to serve others—it doesn’t come naturally. But for many of us, once our kids head into kindergarten, it’s easier to let someone else take over a lot of the training, or to allow our kids to fade into their entertainment-driven culture in their spare time. We need to see parenting as a much bigger opportunity and invitation than that!

I use an illustration in OMA from 9/11 about victims, bystanders, and firemen, the roles people take when lives are at stake. We must teach our children to see themselves as the firemen of this world…the heroes who are willing to set aside their own comforts in order to make a radical difference for others who are suffering or even in danger. There are so many in our world—whether the world around us or the world at large—who need our help and care in order to be saved from terrible circumstances.

I am so encouraged to see a great movement of young people in our world right now who are joining God in His work, coming back to historic levels of competence, purpose, and service for their fellow man. OMA emphasizes helping your kids find what they are passionate about and then training them to use it to serve and positively impact others.

3. Can you give us an example of kids who are using their talents and passions to serve others? Many of these kinds of young people are featured in the book, such as Chloe who is currently majoring in filmmaking in order to positively impact her culture by communicating truths that will spur her peers to make positive choices in life. She’s already received Film Festival awards for her work on the film, "The Enemy God" by (10X Productions), Ivan uses his love for extreme sports to hold events worldwide for sports enthusiasts where he shares a bold Gospel message and then plugs youth into local churches. My oldest daughter Dani uses her love for music and working with kids to impact hundreds of kids during the summer as a Christian camp counselor. These are just a few of many inspiring examples!

4. You have an emphasis in OMA for families to invest in taking care of international orphaned and abandoned children through established organizations. Why is that? Investing in other children is one of the best ways to get your kids hearts interested and engaged in serving and helping others. Also, there are so many children worldwide who are the truest victims and have no means to get out of the gutters of life without help. As mentioned, these kids are currently being rescued and shaped to become spiritual leaders and contributing citizens of their own countries. Our family can make a true difference in the world by impacting lives of these children, which will in turn impact whole villages and cities as they grow up. What a great investment of our time, talents, and money! Many organizations will even allow you to visit the orphanages and ministries you help support.

We love to make it known that all proceeds of OMA go to international orphan ministries.

5. Is this a "how to" parenting book? We do share many principles-based parenting tips from several successful arrow-raising families. But there are already many how-to books on the shelves and I’ve had publishers tell me that parents ask for them but then don’t buy them. That’s because parents need inspiration: "What’s possible through our family if I commit this kind of energy to deliberate parenting? Can our family make a true difference in the world?" The major emphasis in OMA is inspirational aspect of parenting—casting a vision of the exciting ways your family can plug in to make a difference.

6. Is there any place parents can go after reading the book for more inspiration and guidance? We are currently developing our website (OneMillionArrows.com) as a community where parents can share testimonies as well as spiritual training helps. We are also adding many resources on our site such as unique orphan ministries to consider getting involved in, suggested books and resources, daily spiritual training helps, and stories of young people around the world who are making a difference.

Julie Ferwerda is recognized for making the Bible exciting and relevant to everyday life through her writing and speaking. Her articles are featured in many Christian magazines and websites for both adults and teens, and she frequently volunteers her time and talents to international orphan ministry. Learn more at OneMillionArrows.com.

Photos/Julie Ferwerda

Other links

YouTube "One Million Arrows--Join the Movement"
Download Chapter One, One Million Arrows
How to order One Million Arrows
One Million Arrows vision
One Million Arrows Christian Parenting Blog

Special thanks to Julie Ferwerda for providing this interview, book synopsis, and a copy of her book One Million Arrows (WinePress Books) for review.

Scandalon: Running from Shame and Finding God's Scandalous Love - A Memoir by Susan Elaine Jenkins (Cladach Publishing)

karenejordan@sbcglobal.net (Karen Jordan) — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 22:30:00 GMT

Review. Running from scandal--in her family, church and community life--Susan moves from California to China. At first, the adventure of experiencing an exotic culture brings the escape she craves. Gradually, as the layers of mystery and reserve fall away, she gets to know her new Chinese friends on deeper levels. At the same time the self-protective layers around her own heart peel back painfully, exposing her inner brokenness.

In this vivid and transparent memoir, Susan takes us on a fascinating journey into the streets and homes of modern China. The travel memoir is interspersed with Susan's personal story of emotional and spiritual sabotage, shame, and shattered dreams. It all comes together as she opens her heart anew to God's love -- the most scandalous love of all.

Your heart will be warmed, afflicted and enticed as you journey across the great Pacific between Asia and America in a catharsis of tragedy and torment. This is a real story of betrayal and devastation. Some of it sizzles and shakes, but the intention is for healing -- perhaps yours.
~ David Spaite, from the Foreword

Interview. Susan Elaine Jenkins has lived in China for 11 years, teaching the performing arts in international schools. SCADALON is her provocative memoir which includes fascinating stories of people and life in the great country of China, which few of us have visited, but where God is working mightily. God has also worked mightily in Susan's personal life and she has an important story to share.

Q: First of all, tell us a bit about yourself.

Susan: I am a teacher. I was born into a family of preachers and teachers, and I always had a keen desire to teach. I began the first year out of college () and my career has taken me into the hearts and lives of many unforgettable students. Much of my time is occupied with continuing education and professional development opportunities, which opens up new areas of thinking and learning as I go.

After teaching in California private schools for 19 years, I moved to China, where I have focused on teaching performing arts in 3 different international schools. I am a seasoned foreign expatriate these days and yet, the daily adventures of living in Asia continue to surprise me.

Q: It seems that some parts of your book were passages right out of your journals through the years. Is that right? Is it hard to share these publicly, when you probably thought of yourself as the only audience at the time?

Yes, they were taken directly from my journals - especially the conversations between Dr. Travis and me. Those 3 difficult months were mind-numbing days. Writing everything that happened at the end of every confusing day helped me make more sense of it all.

Once I was in China, the conversations with Ouyang were important to me, as well, and I also kept detailed accounts. I knew I needed to have those talks recorded somewhere where I could retrieve them - they were too special to forget. The experiences I was having with my Chinese friends were very precious; China was rapidly developing and nothing would be the same again. I recently visited Tianjin and was stunned to see the progress made - the sleek commercial buildings and tall apartments that have replaced the ancient hutongs near the streets where I once lived and worked.

Yes, I assumed my journals were for my eyes only, and it has been difficult opening up these details to the public. There have been many starts and stops for me to this process and times when I wanted to forget the whole project.

Q: Was there any deciding factor that made you think you should try compiling your notes into a book and to try to get it published? What encouragement did you get along the way?

A friend from the UK convinced me to begin a blog. The idea of sharing my stories was inconceivable, at first, but as time went by, I got to know my readers. Little by little, I opened up the pages of my journals with them, interspersed with a few of the details of daily life in Asia. To my surprise, my online friends began commenting and sending me private letters filled with their own pain. I wanted to let them know that there really is healing and light ahead, that God’s promise really is authentic: He is a God who heals.

Q: Are there any character embellishments? Some people in your book seem almost larger than life!

No, the characters are written exactly as they are. Conversations are word for word, in most cases. I wanted to present the strong and good qualities of my former husband, Kyle, for example, as well as the perplexing reality of our marriage. The words of Dr. Travis (not his real name) were etched deeply into my memory, of course, as those were life-changing words of an experienced sexual predator - impossible to forget, much as I tried. And then the amazing friends I met in China were such distinctive people! I remember thinking: How can I tell the world about Mrs. Hua and her cozy dinner parties with fish swimming laps in the bathtub? How can I explain how marvelous Apple is, with her heart that simply listens to God as she finds her way around the French Riviera? I wanted to share the story of Angel's frustration at being 30 years old and single in the Chinese culture. These are incredibly real and strong people who desire the same things we do in America. They taught me so much.

Q: Why a book about China?

Well, this particular story began to be written in the summer of 1992. My friend, David, gave me the keys to his beach house in and it began pouring out, as I walked along the ocean and typed in his massive kitchen. At the end of the summer, I returned the rented computer, put all the pages into a plain cardboard box and shoved it into a closet. It wasn't until five years later, in 1997, that I realized the story was not going to rest quietly, just gathering dust. It was almost as if it had a life of its own, and refused to be forgotten...so I took the box to China with me and kept writing...for the next ten years. I wrote between classes, on long snowy northern Chinese weekends, on Chinese trains and sitting in plastic airport chairs. It seemed to evolve into a book that is really a combination of two lives: my life in California and my life in Asia; two very different worlds.

I think it seemed very natural at some point, to write of a remarkably poignant journey that met in a healing point while living in a crumbled country, broken by its own history. My life at that point seemed very much the same - broken, falling apart, and dark.

Q: You moved to China to get away from memories that were haunting you? At what point did China start feeling like "home" to you, and less like the completely foreign distraction it first was?

A great job offer came up, and yes, I was anxious to have a completely new start. Before I left for China, someone told me, "Susan, you can never get away from this. Sooner or later, you will need to face all that's happened in your life. You will need to go through the grieving process and admit that you have lost so much." He was right. I did have to face it, but that happened slowly, almost imperceptibly, over a long period of time. Being in China helped me gain perspective of what God wanted to do in me and through me.

I guess it was near the end of my first school year that I realized China had become a second home. I was walking along the hot, muggy streets with Ouyang, and I realized I was reluctant to go back to America. He said, "Do you have to go back? Why don't you just stay?" That possibility hadn't occurred to me until that point and I muttered something about it being too hot during the summer months to remain and that most of the teachers returned to their home countries for the holidays. Years later, I found I could stay for the summers and feel very much at home.

I think the idea of feeling at home in China has to do with the fact that I began feeling "at home" with God. And that, for me, involved a great spiritual healing and coming back to a point of rest within God's heart; being glad to be in His loving presence; knowing that all my sins are utterly forgiven and cast away; and, sensing His divine heart of grace. Home has literally - for me - become His own Heart.

Q. Where might we find out more about you and Scandalon?

Please my website at http://www.susanelainejenkins.com

Special thanks to Karen@ChristianSpeakerServices.com for Susan Elaine Jenkins' Scandalon blog tour. [A copy of Scandalon provided for review by Cladach Publishing.]

Free book giveaway. Leave a comment on this post (with your e-mail address) for your chance to win receive a free copy of the book Scandalon.

Exploring Camp Paron

karenejordan@sbcglobal.net (Karen Jordan) — Sun, 28 Feb 2010 03:52:00 GMT

Some of our grandkids took a trip to Camp Paron with Pop and their dads this Saturday. They met up with some friends and had a great time!

Adam, Zach, and Connor checking out the creek.

Zach exploring with his walking stick.

Zach, Connor, Katie, and Ethan. Watch out, Ethan! Don't fall in!!!

Adam and Ethan getting ready to explore some more sights.

Zach, Connor, Katie, and Ethan enjoying the ride.

Photos/Dan Jordan

What are some of your best memories of outdoor adventures with your kids or grandkids?

Updates: More DeGray pics and new BLESSED Journal post

karenejordan@sbcglobal.net (Karen Jordan) — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 04:44:00 GMT

Do you love to read poetry? Check out Linda Miller's poem, "February Folly," on the BLESSED Journal this week. Great pictures there, too!

Also, here's some animal pics from my trip to DeGray Lake this week. More to come! [I just LOVE my new camera! Can you tell?]

Surprised this doggy. I don't think they have a leash law there!

I called these cattle "oreos." But Dan told me they were called "Dutch Banded." [Whatever, I still think they look like oreo cookies.]

Photos/Karen Jordan

Do you have some interesting pics that you'd like to share with us? Send them to me at kj@karenjordan.net.

Fowl Shots from DeGray Lake

karenejordan@sbcglobal.net (Karen Jordan) — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 02:13:00 GMT

Here's some pics I shot today with my new camera at DeGray Lake in Bismarck, Arkansas.

Photos/Karen Jordan

Do you have any photography tips for a wanna-be photographer like me? Help!

Blog Tour and Giveaway: Never Say Never by Lisa Wingate

karenejordan@sbcglobal.net (Karen Jordan) — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 04:58:00 GMT

Settle into your saddle and join us as we mosey through some new Texas territory with Lisa Wingate's newest novel, Never Say Never. And don't forget to register (with your comment about Texas at the end of this blog) to win a Texas-size gift basket giveaway from this blog tour sponsored by Kathy Carlton Willis Communication (KCWC).

About the Book

Kai Miller floats through life like driftwood tossed by waves. She's never put down roots in any one place--and she doesn't plan to. But when a chaotic hurricane evacuation lands her in Daily, Texas, she begins to think twice about her wayfaring existence. And when she meets hometown-boy Kemp Eldridge, she can almost picture settling down in Daily--until she discovers he may be promised to someone else. Daily has always been a place of refuge for those the wind blows in, but for Kai, it looks like it will be just another place to leave behind. Then again, Daily always has a few surprises in store--especially when Aunt Donetta has cooked up a scheme.

Interview Questions

1. How did you develop the initial story idea/plot line for this book?

Some book ideas you search for, and some just blow in on the wind. For the past several years, dating back to Hurricane Katrina, we in Central Texas have been the recipients of massive hurricane evacuations. These massive exoduses of people, pets, and belongings are frightening, frustrating, challenging, and at times oddly wonderful. When so many are on the road seeking shelter, the worst, but also the best qualities of humanity come to the surface. Hurricane evacuations truly provide times when we ask the question, "Am I my brother’s keeper?" In answering that question, we’ve enjoyed amazing moments of friendship and fellowship, family reunions, and chances to share a food and space with strangers from other parts of the country. We’ve traded stories and recipies, laughter and tears.

One thing we’ve learned about hurricanes, living here, is that the paths are never predictable. Storms waver, hesitate, speed up, slow down, and sometimes change course unexpectedly. Evacuations needs can change and develop quickly. What better way for the beauty shop girls to find their inner strength and to show Daily hospitality, than for their cruise plans to land them smack in the middle of a sudden and chaotic hurricane evacuation?

2. Almost every author puts a little of themselves into their stories—what did you put of yourself into this one? (personality traits, life events/jobs, settings, characters based on people you know, likes/dislikes, etc.)

There’s a bit of me in the setting, of course. I love Texas, in all its variety of cultures and landscapes, but, living in a small town, I have a particular affection for little bergs like Daily, where the coffee’s always hot, and a good slide of pecan pie can cure most ills. Having watched our little town mobilize to take in hurricane evacuees several times now, I’ve been reminded that sometimes the worst things that can happen bring out the best in people. Given the opportunity and faced with the need, regular people can rise to the occasion in amazing ways, as do the citizens of Daily in the book.

Some members of the Wingate family might also claim to recognize themselves among the citizens of Daily, Texas. I would offer the disclaimer that any resemblances are completely unintentional, but that would be a bald-faced lie. When you come from a family of great storytellers and colorful characters, there’s nothing to do but make use of what you’ve got.

3. Did you encounter any interesting challenges while writing/researching for this book? Please explain if so.

The most difficult part of working on Never Say Never was researching and reliving the devastation left behind on the Texas gulf coast last year after Hurricane Ike. While interviewing family members about their experiences during the evacuation and return, we shared laughter and quite a few tears. For those who have lived in southeast Texas all their lives, talking about familiar landmarks, heirlooms, and old family places that were washed away forever, knowing some things will never be the same, is both difficult and devastating. For those of us who have so many memories of family gatherings and vacations there, it’s hard to believe we’ll never visit the old places again.

4. Why is this book/story relevant today?

Despite our best-laid plans, we all experience storms in life—whether those storms be of a weather-related nature, or due to an illness, death, or in recent months, job loss and financial misfortune. When the parameters of life and our ability to control fate suddenly change, we’re confronted with our own helplessness and need to rely on other people and God. In a culture that values independence and self-sufficiency, it’s important to remember that we all have a common need and a common responsibility for each other and that without faith we really are alone in the storm.

Paperback: 352 pgs
Publisher: Bethany House Release Date: Feb. 1, 2010
ISBN-10: 0764204920
ISBN-13: 978-0764204920
Retail: $12.95

Lisa Wingate is a popular inspirational speaker, magazine columnist, and national bestselling author of several books, including Tending Roses, Talk of the Town, Drenched in Light, A Thousand Voices, and A Month of Summer. Her work was recently honored by the Americans for More Civility for promoting greater kindness and civility in American life. Lisa and her family live in central Texas.

How to Talk Texan: Road Trip Tutorial

A couple dozen phrases that'll keep you from lookin' like you don't know gee from haw. You can hang your hat on it!

Hey, y’all!

If you’re planning a road trip across Texas, well, my friend, you’d better get your trottin’ harness on, I’ll tell you that right now.

This state’s wider than a woodcutter’s pile. You’ll be so busy here, you’ll think you’re twins. You might even meet yourself comin’ and goin’ or travel so fast you’ll catch up to yesterday.

One thing’s for sure--there won’t be any grass growin’ under your feet, especially if it’s summer, because it’ll be hot as a nanny goat in a pepper patch. Don’t let that trouble your mind, though.

Seeing the whole state might seem about as easy as tryin’ to saddle up house flies or put socks on the rooster, but here’re a few phrases that’ll make your trip just as smooth as a calf’s ear. You’ll find this little bit of Texan talk just as handy as a pocket on a shirt. With these phrases, you’ll be right at home in jig time, and happy as a pig in sunshine, I promise.

Folks’ll think you’re just as fine as frog hair split four ways. Why, you might even find yourself a Texas gal who’s cute as a bug’s ear or a fella who catches your eye like a tin roof at noonday. Even if you don’t find love here, you’ll run across lots of folks who’re so friendly, they’ll add a cup of water to the soup and tell you to get your sittin’ britches on.

Some of them might be full of wind as a corn-eatin’ horse, but you’ll be welcome ‘till whenever you figure it’s time to put the chairs in the wagon and turkey-tail it toward home.

When you do, we’ll keep a light on and a hitch out for ya, just in case you miss us like a west Texas farmer misses rain. You’re welcome to darken our door any old time. Long as we got a biscuit, my friend, you got half, and if that ain’t a fact, well, then I’m hip high to a horned toad.

Y’all come back now, y’hear!

--Lisa Wingate (and the REST of the folks in Daily, Texas, too!)

For stories with Texas flavor and fun, come see us at www.Lisawingate.com

Texas-size gift basket giveaway

Donetta and Imagene's Texas Road Trip Basket
(approximate total value over $150)

The Daily Texas Series by Lisa Wingate:
*Talk Of the Town
*Word Gets Around
*Never Say Never

The Blue Sky Hills Series by Lisa Wingate:
*A Month of Summer
*The Summer
*Kitchen

Beyond Summer (a special advance copy not available in stores until July 2010)

Road Trip Snacks (Straight from Texas, of course!)

Wrap it all up with a fuzzy, fleecy Texas throw blanket for those cold nights on the road (or curled up with your books!)

Take a Texas road trip, without ever leaving home!

What do you love (or hate) about Texas (or the South)?
Leave your comment to register for this Texas-size gift basket giveaway!

A special thanks to Kathy Carlton Willis Communication (KCWC) for Lisa Wingate's Never Say Never blog tour.

[A copy of this book was provided for review by KCWC]

Karen (native-Texan)
"All my exes live in Texas"

A “Thin Place” in My Life: “Welcome Miles!”

karenejordan@sbcglobal.net (Karen Jordan) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 21:45:00 GMT

Stillness calmed the room as the nurse placed my first grandson, Miles, on the stainless steel table, draped with hospital linens already soiled by his life fluids. Bright heat lamps illuminated his little wrinkled brow that refused to pose for the cameras--loud wails, shivering, shaking fists--then, muffled weeping. A strange silence swept over us as God visited this holy space, admiring His newest creation. Miles had arrived, and his God was with him.

When the doctor handed my daughter, Tara, her precious little boy, we forgot the anguish of her teen pregnancy. With his arrival came peace. Those who dared to observe his birth joined God in His beaming pleasure. Through Tara's travail, Miles drew his first shallow breath, all red and ruddy, as God's gift of promise. Mercy and grace, twin faces of hope, comforted all hearts, as his storm-dark, blue eyes greeted those who already loved the mystery concealed in this event.

The first glimpse of my grandson brought a moment of ecstasy. The doctor's butt-slap was loud applause, and Miles' screaming response was a misunderstood song of angels lauding his birth, giving glory to his Creator. All in Heaven pressed close, standing on their balconies with raised hands and voices, honoring God's newest earth-child, as God ushered this baby into our family with a command to all believers to "Welcome Miles!"

Just days earlier, this faceless little boy had been considered an interloper. He quickly progressed to intruder status; then, he burst forth on the scene as the hope for all creation--new life!

Photo/Dan Jordan (Miles and Tara)
Photo/Dan Jordan (Miles and his namesake)

Can you think of a "time when you experienced a 'thin place' in your life"? Mary Demuth, author of Thin Places: A Memoir, challenges the readers of her blog, “Tell us about a time you experienced a “thin place” in your life.” The winner of the Mary’s contest receives a Kindle--so, you might want to check out her blog tour.

Jessica Kirkland offers gluten-free recipes online

karenejordan@sbcglobal.net (Karen Jordan) — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 00:40:00 GMT

Need some gluten-free recipes or shopping tips?

Jessica Kirkland, Houston Gluten-Free Examiner, offers some great advice on her Examiner.com column and in her blog, Gluten Free Gab.

Jessica, "a wife, mother to triplets, and business owner...discovered the culprit behind her food-related illness: gluten sensitivity....(Now) Jessica offers...advice to help keep others safe from gluten exposure..." (Houston Gluten-Free Examiner).

This week, Jessica offers some great recipes for entertaining--"Beating the gluten blues on game day."

Cold Spaghetti Salad
Sweet BBQ Chicken Wings
Baked Potato Dip
Pan-fried Calamari
Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies

More online links by Jessica Kirkland

Houston Gluten Free Examiner

"Beating the gluten blues on game day"

"Chicken soup for the gluten-free soul"

"Peace of mind while dining out"

Gluten Free Gab

In The Details

Michael's Fitness

Thanks for the recipes, Jessica.

Keep writing!

Karen

Photos/Jessica Kirkland

Do you have any gluten-free recipes or tips?

Lost Your Confidence?

karenejordan@sbcglobal.net (Karen Jordan) — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 02:48:00 GMT

"So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised" (Hebrews 10:35-36).

Have you ever felt that you have thrown away your confidence? I'm not sure about throwing it away, but lately I've been going through a period of time when I had completely lost my confidence.

I hadn't really been able to put my finger on the problem—I just couldn't seem to go forward. Thoughts of fear, worry, anxiety, anger, depression, self-condemnation...have plagued my mind for months. Finally, I saw this truth--and I knew that I had lost my confidence, especially in my writing endeavors.

Now, I'm ready to take my stand and go forward. I hope to write more about my recent journey in the coming weeks and months.

But for now, I just wanted to report to you that I'm finally going forward. And I'm thankful for my friends and family who have prayed with me and for me during my journey.

Thanks a million for your prayers!

Blessings,

Karen

Can you think of a time in your life when you lost your confidence? What happened?

Photo/Dan Jordan (Mother, Karen, Miles)

Blogging 101: Hanging on!

karenejordan@sbcglobal.net (Karen Jordan) — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 20:15:00 GMT

Today, as I contemplate a topic to blog about, I really have to get over something to even to do this--to blog. And I've decided to "hang in there" with the bloggin' process.

As a writing instructor, I encourage my students to work through the complete writing process. And I discourage them from "ever" turning in their first drafts.

Anne Lamott describes first drafts well in her book Bird by Bird. But since I know Lamott's term for first drafts will offend some of my readers, I’ll just quote her explanation of these ****** first drafts, "All good writers write them. This is how they end up with good second drafts and terrific third drafts" (21).

In my writing classes, we explore the writing process with every assignment--from invention to editing to publishing. With blogging, you really don’t really take the time for the complete writing process. You just go from invention to publication in a matter of minutes.

Maybe it's my desire for perfection, but I've been tempted to lay this blogging business down just for that reason. I feel like I’m publishing my "freewriting" or "****** first drafts." When I check out other blogs, I see typos and random thoughts--some of which only the author can possibly follow.

Actually, that is what life looks like, isn't it? It's messy! And we rarely get a chance to get every detail just "so-so" before other people observe us. If they don't like me without my makeup, they're probably not going to like me anyway. And as my husband, Dan, once told me, "Karen, not everyone is gonna like you!"

After I scraped myself off the floor from that comment, I realized that Dan was right. And even though I would love to please everyone--now I know that's impossible.

Even though I've decided to continue to "hang in there" with my blogging, I'm not giving up on the editing process. I'll still hack away at my articles and other writing projects that I submit for publication. But as for blogging--I'll just cut, paste, and publish!

Keep bloggin'!

Karen

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My other weblinks and blogs

BLESSED Journal

Legacy WordBlog

Little Rock Christian Examiner

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More thoughts on blogging

BlogFast

Free-blogging

Confessions of a New Blogger

What are your thoughts on blogging? What is your writing process?

A Fishin' Tale

karenejordan@sbcglobal.net (Karen Jordan) — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 02:00:00 GMT

Wanna read a good fishin' tale? Check out "The Starter Rope" by Tommy Barnes in the BLESSED Journal this week!

Tommy Barnes captured a moment in time with his dad in "The Starter Rope." And I'm so glad he did, because "his" dad is "my" dad!

We pass our family stories down when we get together at special family events, such as the holidays, weddings, and especially funerals. We talk about the good ol' days, but many of our stories will not be written down for the generation.

I'm so grateful that my brother, Tommy, writes down some of his stories, especially since both of our parents are gone now. We're preserving a written legacy for the next generation.

I hope Tommy's story encourages you to write down some of your family stories. And we'd love to read them!

Just send your stories to me at kj@karenjordan.net, and I'll post them on our BLESSED Journal. [Be sure to send me some pictures to post with your stories!]

Blessings,

Karen

Photos/Barnes family (Dad, Uncle Bill, and Tommy--SE Texas Gulf Coast )

Photos/Barnes family (Cathy, Karen, Mother, Tommy, Dad, & Leslea)

Do you have a good fishin' story? What legacy do you hope to leave for the next generation?

Blog Tour: Interview with Christian Fiction Author, Virginia Smith, about Her Newest Book

karenejordan@sbcglobal.net (Karen Jordan) — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 13:28:00 GMT

BLESSED DiaBlog welcomes Kathy Carlton Willis Communication (KCWC)!

KCWC offers an interesting interview with award-winning author, Virginia Smith. Smith's newest book, Third Time’s a Charm, concludes her Sister-to-Sister series and "promises to give readers a fun, soul-searching, comical, and relatable read" (KCWC).

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Sisters, Shopping and a Search…

Third Time's a Charm

The Satisfying Conclusion of the Sister-to-Sister Series

About the Book

(Dual Residency: UT & KY) – There’s not too much in this world that a little retail therapy can’t fix--except maybe the empty hole in your heart from lost and undiscovered love. Tori Sanderson is no exception. Facing abandonment issues with her father, Tori sets out to find the real reason he left her. Along the way she discovers even deeper truths. Add in two matchmaking sisters plus a couple of attractive men vying for Tori's attention, as well as a tempting job promotion possibility, and you’ve got one confused sister. Through it all, Tori searches for the love she’s been missing all these years.

Author Virginia Smith, presents Third Time's a Charm, the third installment of the Sister-to-Sister Series. Page-turning humor surrounding the lives of three sisters will once again engage readers, while somber self-discovery will unveil Tori's struggles, and perhaps a few of your own. In a world with more than a few dysfunctional families, this story will ring true for many.

Interview Questions

1. This book is the third and final book in your Sister-to-Sister Series. How did you feel when you completed this last book?

I felt a little sad, because I have lived with the characters for three years, and they're very real to me. I'll miss them. Plus, I wanted to leave readers with a good impression, so I was anxious for the last scene to be strong. I prayed over that last line for a long time, and when the words finally came, I got chills. They were absolutely the perfect wrap-up for the whole series. I still get tears whenever I read them.

2. Which of the sisters in this trilogy do you relate to the most? Why?

That's a hard question to answer, because there is a piece of me in each of the Sanderson sisters. But I'd have to say I relate most closely with Tori, because she is professionally ambitious, and she struggles to balance her career and her personal life. I did that for over twenty years, so much of her conflict comes from my experiences.

3. You've been contracted to write 12 times in the last 4 years. To what do you attribute this success and how would you encourage others who are doing everything possible to get published?

Perseverance. I wrote for over twenty years before my first book, Just As I Am, was published. But I believed that the Lord gave me the desire to write, and even when my pile of rejections was growing (to an astounding 143 before my first publication!), I knew if He wanted me to write, I was going to keep writing. Even now - or maybe especially now - I trust Him for every story, every contract. Sometimes I still receive rejections, but I keep writing because He keeps giving me stories.

4. How is your relationship with your own sisters similar to Tori and her sisters? Did you pull from these sibling experiences when writing Third Time's a Charm? How?

I sure did! Actually, my sisters were the inspiration behind the whole Sister-to-Sister Series. They are the most incredible women in the world, and I wanted readers to glimpse the relationship we have. And they were excited to have starring roles in my stories. It was funny watching them try to identify themselves in the books, because I took characteristics from each of us and mixed them up to create each of the Sanderson sisters. Tori, for instance, is a career-minded person, like me. She's creative, like one of my sisters. And she's a big flirt, like the other sister. Uh… I’d better not identify who that is, or I'll start a family feud!

5. What's next for Virginia Smith?

In May of this year I have a new book coming out from Steeple Hill. Researching A Daughter’s Legacy was a lot of fun, because it is set in a zoo! It’s my first straight romance, and was something of an experiment for me to see if I liked writing the genre. I loved it, and have a few ideas germinating in my mind for future romance novels.

Then later in the year, Into the Deep will hit bookstores. That's a romantic suspense novel with a scuba diving theme. It takes place partly in Key West, and partly in Cozumel, Mexico. Can you tell I have a lot of fun researching my books?

Paperback: 336 pages

Publisher: Revell

Release: January 1, 2010

ISBN-10: 0800732340

ISBN-13: 978-0800732349

Retail: $14.99

The Inspiration Behind the Main Characters

I was watching a DVD when I first envisioned Tori Sanderson. In Sweet Home Alabama, Reese Witherspoon is chic, petite, and more than a little headstrong. Plus, she's ashamed of her upbringing, and therefore insecure even though she enjoys a successful career.

That's exactly how I pictured Tori as I wrote the first two books in the Sister-to-Sister Series. But Tori is several years younger than Reese, so as I wrote the opening chapter of Third Time's a Charm, I was struggling to come up with the perfect visual image.

One evening I saw an advertisement for Samantha Who, starring Christina Applegate. I jumped out of my chair and shouted, "That’s her! That’s Tori!" So I gave my character a curly perm to match Christina’s.

I Googled the show's cast and found Barry Watson, who became my model for the handsome handyman, Ryan Adams. And Mitch Jackson is modeled after Michael Weatherly, the gorgeous but suggestively inappropriate Tony DinNozzo on NCIS.

Sounds like I’m a television junkie, doesn't it? Not really, but I do like to have a visual image for characters as I write. It helps them come alive in my mind, and hopefully in the minds of my readers, too.

Virginia Smith recently contracted her twelfth book in four years. Previous books in the Sister-to-Sister series include: Stuck in the Middle and Age before Beauty. In 2008 she was named Writer-of-the-Year at Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference. Stuck in the Middle was a finalist for American Christian Fiction Writers’ 2009 Book of the Year Award. A Taste of Murder was a finalist for the 2009 Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Mystery/Suspense. Ginny and husband, Ted, divide their time between Lexington, Kentucky, and Salt Lake City, Utah, escaping as often as possible for diving trips to the Caribbean. Admittedly, her adventurous outings are often as much fun as they are “book research.”

For a more indepth look into the life of Virginia Smith visit the KCWC blog.

The Grand Prize will be awarded to one fortunate person who leaves a comment at one of the blog tours participating in the KCWC Third Time's A Charm blog tour. It includes:

The complete collection of Virginia Smith books, TEN in all (listed below), with a personal behind-the-scenes commentary written by the author - especially for this tour!

Sister-to-Sister Series, including: Stuck in the Middle, Age Before Beauty, and Third Time's A Charm.

Unforgettable Mayla Strong Books: Just As I Am and Sincerely Mayla.

Classical Trio Series from Love Inspired Suspense: A Taste of Murder, Murder at Eagle Summit, and Scent of Murder.

Murder By Mushroom

Bluegrass Peril

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Thank you, Kathy Carlton Willis Communication for bringing Virginia Smith's Third Time's a Charm 'blog tour to the BLESSED DiaBlog!

[A copy of this book was provided for review by KCWC]

Photos/KCWC

New Women's Bible Study at The Summit Church and online

karenejordan@sbcglobal.net (Karen Jordan) — Sun, 31 Jan 2010 22:05:00 GMT

Beginning on Wednesday (6:30-8:30 p.m), February 10, the Legacy Women at The Summit Church in North Little Rock, ArkansasThe Summit Church in North Little Rock, Arkansas, begin a 10-week study Bible study—Beth Moore’s Breaking Free (updated version): The Journey, the Stories.

"Breaking Free…by Beth Moore leads you through a study of the Scriptures to discover the transforming power of Christian freedom. Based on Isaiah 61:1-4, this in-depth Bible study draws parallels between the captive Israelites and today’s believers. Beth uses Scripture to help identify spiritual strongholds in your life, no matter how big or small. She explains that anything that hinders us from the benefits of knowing God is bondage. Breaking Free is Beth’s life message..." (lifeway.com).

The Summit Church
6600 Crystal Hill Road
North Little Rock, AR
Phone: 501-758-4822
Fax: 501-758-4863

Also the Legacy WordBlog offers an online resource for additional personal Bible study, stories, and insights from our Bible study participants. I hope you’ll join us in our Legacy WordStudies—at The Summit Church, on our Legacy WordBlog online, or both.

Looking forward to studying God’s Word with you!

Karen

Do you recall a meaningful Bible study experience--personal, one-on-one, or in a group)?

Frost Bite

karenejordan@sbcglobal.net (Karen Jordan) — Sat, 30 Jan 2010 17:13:00 GMT

Connecting with Frost

"Whose woods these are I think I know...

He will not see me stopping here
To watch his woods fill up with snow...

Between the woods and frozen lake...

The only other sound's the sweep
Of easy wind and downy flake...

The woods are lovely, dark and deep...

But I have promises to keep...

And miles to go before I sleep."

(Robert Frost, "Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening")

Tuck's Tales: "Mr. Johnson's Thumb

karenejordan@sbcglobal.net (Karen Jordan) — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 22:41:00 GMT

Read more of "Mr. Johnson's Thumb"Check out this week's post on the BLESSED Journal, "Mr. Johnson's Thumb" by Tuck Mantooth.

"Growing up next door to Mr. Johnson was fun. He was always nice to me, even when Mama ran me out of the house for fighting with one of my brothers. He didn't have much hair, but always pulled it over the top of his head. I asked him why he did that one time, and he said that if he didn’t, his head would get sunburned. I thought a hat would have looked better, but I didn’t tell him"(Read more of "Mr. Johnson's Thumb.")

"Mr. Johnson's Thumb" reminds me of my own grandfather, who we called Daddy Buck. I wrote a story about him a while back called "Smokin' with Daddy Buck." Daddy Buck lost some fingers while working for a sawmill in Southeast Texas.

Looking back, I don't know why Daddy Buck's missing fingers frightened me so much. But I see that Tuck was scared of Mr. Johnson's thumb, too. Thanks for the memory, Tuck!

Do you have a childhood memory that comes to mind as you read Tuck's tale?

Meemee's Breakfast Casserole

karenejordan@sbcglobal.net (Karen Jordan) — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 02:10:00 GMT

Here's another recipe from Meemee, and I think you'll love it. I know our family does...just ask our cooks!

My daughter, Tara, asked Meemee for her recipe when she married a few years ago. Now, Tara often prepares this breakfast casserole when she takes a dish to a brunch. Or she serves it to her family, when she wants to make a special breakfast for them.

I like this casserole because you can make it with sausage, bacon, or ham.

Enjoy!

Meemee's Breakfast Casserole

1 can crescent rolls
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
4 eggs
½ cup milk
½ tsp salt
Pepper (to taste)
1 lb cooked sausage, bacon, or ham

Preheat oven to 375*.
Spray 9 x 13 casserole dish with Pam.
Spread rolls to cover the bottom of the dish pinching edges together.
Mix eggs, milk, salt, & pepper and pour over dough.
Crumble meat on top, then...
Add cheese.
Bake 20 minutes.

Do you have a favorite breakfast or brunch recipe?

Photo/Jordan family cooks (Karen, Tara, and Jenni)

Basking in the Sunlight

karenejordan@sbcglobal.net (Karen Jordan) — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 14:44:00 GMT

As I opened the blinds in my den this morning, the sun beamed through the window into the shadows of my home. I wanted to bask in the sunlight, so I opened all the blinds.

I felt like I was letting Your Spirit into my home, although I knew You were already with me. But I felt the urge to do this as a gesture of welcoming You into my life once more.

I began to sing, "Holy Spirit, You are welcome in this place...."

Lord, You are welcome here. And I'm so grateful that You remind me to invite You into my life, and You promise to always be with me. You are ready to take my life to the next level, to heal my troubled mind and heart, and to show me You care deeply about my needs and the needs I see around me.

You know my sister's needs before I do. You are there with her, waiting for her to welcome You into her situation.

May I never forget this moment of welcoming You as I opened the blinds and felt the warmth of Your sunlight on my face. And as I observed the darkness around me dissipate with Your light.

"...that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light" (1 Peter 2:9).

Overwhelmed?

karenejordan@sbcglobal.net (Karen Jordan) — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 15:41:00 GMT

My friend, Sharon, wrote a post on her Sanewriter's Blog today called "Your First Reaction."

Problems. Sharon's words remind me of how often I try to approach problems in my own strength. I attempt to figure out the answers, and I try to conjure up the resources and motivation to tackle problems in my own strength. But recently I've been hitting a wall with my efforts.

Even the simplest of tasks seem overwhelming to me lately--like writing a blog post or planning a grocery list. Not long ago, I could listen quite attentively to the problems of my friends and family. But now, I seem to over-react to the smallest issue.

I can feel the stress building in my head as my blood pressure rises. And I tend to want to run from commitments and from heavy conversations. My mind refuses to consider organizational ideas--I'd rather watch a Hallmark movie.

Truth. Sharon's article reminded me of a truth that I need to hear again. The Lord never intended me to take on the burdens of others. He invites me to bring my burdens to Him. And He wants me to lead others to take their needs to Him, too.

My friend, Debbie, also encouraged me yesterday as she reminded me that I must let go of the self-condemning thoughts, when I can't live up to my own perfectionistic standards. I guess I put some fairly heavy burdens on myself that I can't bear.

Promise. Jesus said, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.

Thanks again for your article, Sharon.

And thanks, Debbie for your wise counsel.

Blessings,

Karen

Overlooking the Obvious

karenejordan@sbcglobal.net (Karen Jordan) — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 05:53:00 GMT

Last week, I picked up a couple of prescriptions at the drive-through pharmacy. I had to miss a dose of one of them; so, I pulled both bottles out of the shopping bag, retrieved my needed dose, and pitched both bottles into my purse. Then, I drove away and continued my errands.

Pills. The next day, I dug through my purse to get my daily doses, but I couldn't find one of the pill bottles. Where could that bottle be?

I retraced my steps from the previous day, beginning with my vehicle. It was way passed time to clean out my car; so, I even vacuumed out the cracker crumbs dropped over the last few weeks by my grandkids. But I found nothing but trash and a few coins.

Next, I asked my husband to check his car, since I'd been in his car the previous evening. I even requested that he check his car trunk, since I had placed my purse in there at one point. But no luck there either.

Where else did I take my purse? I had met my daughter and daughter-in-law for lunch at a local restaurant, where the grandkids could play on their indoor playground. So, I called the restaurant and asked if they had found my meds. The manager even checked the booth where I had been seated. Nothing.

Where could I have dropped that bottle? The other bottle was still safe at the bottom of my purse. Perhaps I left my purse unzipped at some point, and the other bottle dropped out. I even combed areas where I knew my chances were even slimmer for finding it--like in my office and in the kitchen. I finally gave up and called the pharmacy to request another bottle, knowing I'd have to pay full price, without insurance coverage this time.

When I picked up my meds again, I was grateful they only charged me the regular price that I normally paid for the pills. And when I put my bottle in my medicine basket, I continued to wonder, Where is that other bottle?

The next morning, when I stopped to refill my daily pill container, I pulled out my medicine bottles again. There with the rest of my meds was the missing bottle of pills. Where did it come from? Was it there all along, and I just overlooked it?

Direction. I immediately thought of an on-going prayer request of mine for direction for my future writing life. I get so confused with all the ideas and distractions that come my way. So, I've been begging the Lord for clear direction. Perhaps the Lord is telling me that the answer is right under my nose.

Shoes. Later that day, I did it again--I couldn't find the shoes I wanted to wear. The first place I looked was where they should have been--in my closet. But I couldn't see them when I looked. So, the search began--in my office, under my chair in the den, in the bathrom--but to no avail.

The searches were making me weary. I tend to misplace a lot of things these days--my glasses, my cell phone, my keys.... And most of the time I trace my steps right back to the first place I first looked and find them there. And once again, as I walked back into my closet looking for my shoes, they appeared right on the shelf where they belonged--in the first place that I had looked earlier.

Questions. What's the lesson here? Am I going crazy? Am I getting paid back for all the times I made fun of my husband for losing his things? Or is this a direct message to me to slow down and think through things before I jump to conclusions and panic? Can I trust that I'm hearing from the Lord correctly the first time I ask for direction?

Prayer. Lord, help me to remember that You are always with me. I can expect that You will hear me when I pray. And You promise to guide me in all of my ways. Help me to trust You. Amen. (Phillippians 4:4-7)

Omelet in a Bag

karenejordan@sbcglobal.net (Karen Jordan) — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 17:44:00 GMT

I hope you enjoy this recipe that my daughter, Tara, gave me recently. She got the idea from my daughter-in-law, Jenni, who has even prepared omelets like this for a group of her friends.

Ingredients and supplies
*Quart-sized freezer bags [Cooking more than one? Write name on bag with a permanent marker.]

*Large pan

*2 eggs

*Omelet goodies (such as cheese, veggies, or meat)

*Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

*Bring large pan of water to boil.

*Whisk ingredients (for each omelet) together.

*Pour omelet ingredients into a quart-sized, zip-lock freezer bag (for each omelet).

*Squeeze as much air out of the bag as possible, zipping the bag closed.

*Place bag with omelet ingredients in boiling water. [Can cook more than one omelet at a time.]

*Boil for 13 minutes.

*Remove omelet from bag and serve.

One website I checked out, Roadtrip America, has some helpful hints for this recipe. It warns that the bag might look like it will burst, but it won’t. Also, you don’t have to turn the bag over. And be sure the omelet mix is cold because the eggs won’t keep as long without their shells.

Rachael Ray has a video of someone cooking an “omelet in a bag” on her site.

Phyllis’ Recipes from Arkansas Outdoors on (AETN) has some other suggestions in her video on Arkansas Educations Television Network, such as serving the omelet in a flour tortilla or cooking these omelets outdoors or with the kids.

In fact, when I “googled” “omelet in a bag,” I was amazed at how many sites have this recipe. I’d never heard of it! But I plan to try it soon.

Let me know how your omelets turn out! [Especially if I left out a step or an ingredient here!]

Plus, I’d love to hear what “omelet goodies” you put in your bags with the eggs. So be sure to leave your comments below. Also, send your favorite recipes or stories for the BLESSED DiaBlog or BLESSED Journal to kj@karenjordan.net.

Blessings!

Karen

Do you have any unique recipes for cooking outdoors or cooking with kids? Where did you find them? Tell us about your favorite recipe discovery.