accessibility, caregiver, family, freelance, relationships

Celebrating 26 Years of Marriage…in a Pandemic

July 16, 2020

2 Comments

Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with…

accessibility, caregiver, disability awareness, pandemic

Accessibility and COVID-19 (Part 2)

T.R. Knight

June 12, 2020

4 Comments

COVID-19 is not being discussed in the news as much recently and many of you are able to relax your guard some, but I wanted to return to a discussion I had earlier regarding Accessibility and COVID-19. Most states and…

accessibility, caregiver, disability awareness, family, multiple sclerosis

Accessible Gaming Advocates

T.R. Knight

March 27, 2020

No Comments

As we close out Disability Awareness Month 2020, you may not realize how many people enjoy the gaming hobby and have disability-related challenges. As a caregiver, I experience it and am sensitive to the need for accessible games. So, if…

accessibility, caregiver, disability awareness, freelance, multiple sclerosis, relationships

Accessibility and COVID-19

T.R. Knight

March 20, 2020

1 Comment

COVID-19 is all over the news. It is impacting people all over the world. Businesses are shutting down. Schools and universities are moving to virtual course delivery. Events are canceling or moving online. Bars and restaurants have closed dining and…

accessibility, Angie's Perspective, caregiver, disability awareness, family, freelance, multiple sclerosis, relationships

National Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week 2020

T.R. Knight

March 13, 2020

No Comments

March 8 to 14 this year is National Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week, which is a good time to update you on my wife’s disability. Angie was diagnosed with Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis in July 1997. Over the years this has required us to adjust our…

« Previous

Dan L Fuller Country Writer
NextGenKent
Invisible Issues
Freelance Knight
MEEMAW MEMORIES
FairWriter
Rachael O. Phillips
Romance in TIME
Jody Stinson
Linda Taylor: Writer, Editor, Speaker
PeggySue Wells | Inspirational Speaker and Best-Selling Author

On Eagles’ Wings

I, like many people, am fascinated with eagles. Especially bald eagles. They are majestic and beautiful in flight. I have been blessed to see them a number of times in the wild. A friend once lead my wife and me by canoe to a nest on the Manistee River. We got to see a pair in their … Continue reading On Eagles’ Wings [...]

Looking to the Heavens

I am always amazed when looking at a clear night sky. It makes me feel small to realize that I am just one speck on one tiny planet in one large galaxy among a huge sea of millions of galaxies in a vast, limitless space. I have observed it from my yard, from campgrounds and mountains and … Continue reading Looking to the Heavens [...]

The Whale Guy

I am fascinated by whales. During my one visit to Hawai, I was amazed to see a group (pod) of them swim by as I stood on the balcony of my hotel room. That makes me think of Jonah. You know, the whale guy in the Bible. As the story goes, God told him to … Continue reading The Whale Guy [...]

The Name

It was a beautiful morning. The night’s chill warming away with the rising of the sun over the Judean hills. A myriad of birds sang their awakening songs. Flowers sprinkled the edges of the path. But the young woman trudging up the road noticed none of these. She was absorbed in her own sorrow. Grief was … Continue reading The Name [...]

The Artistry of Birds

I enjoy watching birds come to the feeder outside our picture window. They seem to enjoy their free meal. In a single morning I can see brown sparrows, gold finches, black and white chickadees, gray titmice, and nuthatches that can hang upside down from the post. Sometimes there are colorful blue jays and bright red cardinals … Continue reading The Artistry of Birds [...]

Blue Snow

Sometimes, after a fresh snow, there is a magic time just before sunrise. The hour before the sun appears over the horizon, the snow looks blue. It is beautiful in a soft solemn way. It is an interesting time to take a walk outside. There is a sense of mystery as the trees are still dark in shadow. … Continue reading Blue Snow [...]

The Manger Under the Tree

For some years it has been a custom in our home to place a small Nativity scene at the base of the Christmas tree. There it reminds us of that special gift sent to earth on the first Noel. As I look into that tiny manger with the Christ Child warmed in the soft glow … Continue reading The Manger Under the Tree [...]

Trials and Blessings

A few weeks ago I took my grandson canoeing and fishing on a secluded lake. It was fun. However, we did not catch a fish. We didn’t even get a nibble. I reminded him of the old saying, “A bad day fishing is better than a good day at work.” Later we came across another … Continue reading Trials and Blessings [...]

Greetings and Information

To my readers, you may have noticed that I have not written for a while. A number of things have occurred. I have spent several hours a day going over edits from my publisher. The holidays were also hectic. A family member was in the hospital but is home, doing better. Life happens. I’ve missed … Continue reading Greetings and Information [...]

Racoons

I enjoy seeing racoons in the wild. They are cute, looking down from tree limbs. Their movements and dexterity are fun to watch. The black patches around their eyes that look like masks add to their charm. That mask is prophetic, however. They are bandits. They enjoy nothing better than slipping in and stealing food from … Continue reading Racoons [...]

Wishing Love Was More

There are several things worthy of reflection today but I want to gloat and bloat on a conversation I had with my daughter ... in my head.My daughter and I are very similar in several ways, at least I can see that. I can own up to it where there are weaknesses and definitely do in her strengths. My daughter came to me for advice on spiritual matters, which is not uncommon for her. I began my response to her with, "I love you, daughter, I love you so much it hurts; I wish at times my love for you… [...]

Praying for Revival Will Bring You to Reconciliation

I am continuing to chew on something one of my ABF (Adult Bible Fellowship):What if in our praying for revival it has actually brought us to a sphere of where reconciliation must be exercised? I see this is a wonderful discovery and in my heart I hear, DO NOT MISS THE TWO! They are part of each other. friends said about revival and reconciliation, which has brought me to ask: Revival and Reconciliation. Let me dig into this more with something simple: a triangle. There are three points to every triangle, but if you have it flat side down, two points go… [...]

The “Refusing to See” kind of blindness.

My devotional today from Ravi Zacharias stated, “The blindness to the sacred is the cause of all evil.”I see that as blindness to Christ of course. After all, he is the light of all. Spiritual blindness is the refusal to see the glory of God our Creator for what it is—in its truth and love. The pride of humanity doesn’t want to be shown what it doesn’t know and that it doesn’t know. After all our forefathers and mothers have tasted the fruit from the tree of Knowledge of good AND evil. What is there not to know?That is where our… [...]

The Fine Art of Self-Deception

I am going off script today and basically ... just rambling. BUT I think there is a pattern of thought:Contemplation #1: Lately I have been pondering the facts of life and how the power of self deception is subtle yet so powerfully enslaving. I watch AFV from time to time and on one episode, a woman had a VR headset on, pointed screamed, ducked and fell down. Whatever she saw in the video headset caused her reality to shift and she no longer saw the video for what it was, but mistook it as reality and responded. How does this… [...]

On the Knowledge of God

The knowledge of God is a vital part of the well-being of your life--spiritually and otherwiseGod desires for you to know Him, but even more, God desires to reveal Himself to you. The knowledge of God is hidden--you cannot just expect to gain it. You need to especially understand that many will say they have it when in fact they do not. However, those who truly know God have very specific things in common.The Word of God reveals to us the knowledge of God, but it isn’t the only place our knowledge of Him comes from. However, every other place… [...]

What a Bad Stain on Your Carpet Does

My daughter worked on her graduation display after I went to bed at 10:30pm. At 12:15am, she spoke into my bedroom, "Dad, I need your help with something. I spilled some paint on the carpet."My grogginess soon dissipated when I walked into the living room and saw an eight-inch circle of deep black. She had reached for something and turned over a pint full of tempera paint and had already attempted cleaning it up. "This happened in your bedroom once before ... and why we told you to have plenty of newspaper down..." No speech would help her (or the… [...]

Countering Any Plot Against You

I have been in a place for the past week or so that feels like there is a plot against me. I cannot explain ALL, just that I feel a "dark cloud" over me, my spirit is agitated, I cannot connect with God, my wife, my kids, my friends--anyone. All of my words seem dampened and my mind and my heart seem to be too.In my spiritual journey, I have become more aware of times like these and others that effect me negatively, and have learned to pause, reflect and pray--even fast if goaded to do so. I continue to… [...]

Send me your kids who want to have fun and I'll send you my kids who want to learn.

Re-Imagining Youth Ministry :a blog mentorship experimentYesterday I was visiting with a Senior Pastor and Youth Pastor of a church here in a small town in Oklahoma. I am coaching them and will be working with them to train some of their youth workers. These folks desire to be church B. They have a missional approach to ministry that to some, feels less flashy than the average youth ministry.So the youth pastor (let's call him Nate) was talking to the youth pastor down the street, who is in his 50's. As Nate was describing his ministry to this older youth pastor… [...]

I'm Kickin' It with Spiritual Gifts

If you have read anything about spiritual gifts, you probably know everything there is to know about them. Today I just want to go through a few passages to remind you what spiritual gifts really are all about. The kicker: When each part is working properly, the body grows, built up in love.There are three major passages that give the listings of not just spiritual gifts, but gifts, services, and activities of the Godhead in a believer's life: 1 Corinthians 12 (and lesser 14), Romans 12, and Ephesians 4.Number 1: The gifts (services and activities) are SPIRITUAL, which means they come from another… [...]

What Could Be Better In My Life?

What would you say is one thing you wish was better about your life? Things on the other side of the fence hold an attraction to us--are temptations for us. It is part of our human nature. Some of that nature helps us to search for God. Most of it betrays us.The temptation is for us to become covetous, greedy, self-absorbed, selfishly ambitious, and hold on to the belief that the good we have is the best--for anyone and everyone. One way we respond when we think something good we have is losing its street cred is by pretending that it is better than… [...]

Making Lemonade

Earlier this month, I received a lovely card from my cousin Carolyn. We don’t see each other often, but she frequently sends cards with thoughtful, hand-written messages. This one was perfect. Someday (after we say, “strange, uncertain, and unprecedented” a hundred more times), hopefully we can look back and see some silver linings and rainbows. … Continue reading "Making Lemonade" [...]

MS Awareness Week 2020

Sorry I’ve been quiet for so many months! I have a lot of catching up to do, as many changes have come over that time. But this is a week I had to step in. As I prepared to write an article to submit to our area newspaper, I thought of different angles I could … Continue reading "MS Awareness Week 2020" [...]

a late poem… for my Knight/Charioteer

My Knight (tacking on even though National Poetry Month has passed) By Angela Knight A “knight in shining armor” is who the stories say will ride atop a charging steed to chase my fears away. But what if his armor loses shine, is dented on its ride, if he slips from his mount as it … Continue reading "a late poem… for my Knight/Charioteer" [...]

Poetry of Disability

As Disability, MS, and other similar Awareness Months draw to a close, I thought this would be an appropriate time to share a in a different way. Describing how MS really affects me can prove difficult, outside of a list of concrete symptoms. So how does one communicate this? How about poetry? National Poetry Month begins … Continue reading "Poetry of Disability" [...]

“That week”…

What am I talking about? Well, “MS Awareness Week,” March 10-16 2019, officially marked that week, though it seems repetitive to me. Every day, week, month I face symptoms of what has become my continuing journey. (Even though I managed to post this one day after the week ended, my daily awareness level hasn’t changed. … Continue reading "“That week”…" [...]

That’s how I Knoll

And no, I am not talking about the grassy knoll or other small hills in the area. I am talking about the process of arranging objects in parallel and 90 degree angles as a method of organization. I first heard… The post That’s how I Knoll appeared first on Freelance Knight. [...]

Fifty turns around the sun

Today marks the half-century mark for me…in the midst of a pandemic. We had a small, socially distanced, celebration in our garage with immediate family earlier this week. With all the social distancing and self-isolation my wife and I have… The post Fifty turns around the sun appeared first on Freelance Knight. [...]

On My Shelf: Refractions of Glasston

The feelings that flood over you when you open the box for your first published book, that you worked on from idea genesis to publication, are like no other. Pulling it out of the box and holding the book in… The post On My Shelf: Refractions of Glasston appeared first on Freelance Knight. [...]

Feels good to be freelancing again

As of this week, I am officially back to freelancing, proofreading sections of Hellboy: The Roleplaying Game for Red Scar Publishing. It has been so long, I had forgotten how much I enjoy proofreading RPGs. The meticulous nature of the… The post Feels good to be freelancing again appeared first on Freelance Knight. [...]

Dealing (or not) with my pandemic burnout

In dealing with those who are undergoing great suffering, if you feel “burnout” setting in, if you feel demoralized and exhausted, it is best, for the sake of everyone, to withdraw and restore yourself. The point is to have a… The post Dealing (or not) with my pandemic burnout appeared first on Freelance Knight. [...]

Outdoor Fun

Cousin Karin says her flowers are waning but we'll enjoy them as long as possible. The vanilla strawberry hydrangeas are turning pink and a few zinnias linger.This week was Fall Break for some of our Muncie kids. Sam planned a getaway for them as a couple and the boys were with us from Monday to Wednesday. When they were dropped off here around noon, they all went down to see another sleeping option, the new pull out couch. They tried it out for a silly family photo. That afternoon, Elijah helped grandpa with cutting and stacking wood for winter. Meanwhile the… [...]

Birthdays and more camping

Karin´s weekly pic tells me the leaves are turning in Tennessee also, even though her flowers are more muted pastels. In our area, we had the most colorful week thus far--fleeting autumn beauty. We are making the most of the lovely weather for both work and play. Michael is steadily cutting and gathering wood for the winter. There is a plentiful supply of dead trees in our woods.My research material is growing almost at the same rate as the wood pile. This week a friend in Argentina, who is also working on the history of the mission, heard of my interest… [...]

Week 40

I wonder how long cousin Karin is able to provide a Sunday bouquet for her church? In our area there was a frost advisory early on in the week so I began to bring in the many plants. Relocating them, finding the right spot for each one, is a challenge each year as they grow and multiply throughout the summer. This is the beginning of the houseplant migration.Sunday, September 27, marked a milestone in our youngest grandson's life. Jude will be eight years-old next week. His heart has been tender toward the things of God. From the time he invited Jesus… [...]

Week 39

Cousin Karin's Sunday bouquet features her one dahlia blossom, 7" in diameter, as its centerpiece.The beautiful early autumn weather allowed for concerts in the park, camping, and another picnic.The Marion Philharmonic Orchestra had to cancel their planned season events, Instead they are offering free outdoor concerts: September, string ensemble; October, marimba. The first one was in our very own Upland Depot Park on a beautiful Sunday afternoon. Monday after Leah's radiation treatment, we stopped by Skye and Destiny's new home and loved seeing the boy and his dog adjusting to their new environment. Kalani is well loved and cared for by his… [...]

A Fun Week--#38

Even though I often forget to take pictures I seem to end up with more than enough to remember and record the happenings of the week. The memorable moments I've overlooked can be described with words. This looking back to recall, reflect, and summarize is a good antiaging exercise, so I have read.At our age, not a week goes by without news of another passing. Sunday morning I read of Joene Cover's death. She was one of the three veteran missionary ladies that sat at the same table with Mother. I always enjoyed talking to her even though at this… [...]

Festival and Getaway

Another lovely Tennessee bouquet to open this weekly blog and bring us all some cheer from the Creator via Cousin Karin's skillful arrangement.The two major events of the week were the Upland Labor Day festivities, and our getaway for Diane's birthday.The town's three day festival included a variety of events: yard sales, music, food vendors, carnival rides, ice cream socials, a spectacular fireworks display Sunday night, a 5k competitive run/walk Monday and then the parade like the grand finale. ATVs are allowed all around town, so the kids borrow ours and enjoy it all weekend. I try to do the 5k each… [...]

Week 36

Cousin Karin says, "Here is another glad to make your heart glad. It is one of the prettier ones I have had, and notice the frilly edges.There are also two orangish-red ones in the center front."The daily trips to Oncology for Leah's radiation treatments continue. We are grateful that the side effects have not been worse. Tiredness is the main one. I enjoy little visits with Kalani, especially when he smiles for me. And during our rides I get to hear about all the things he can do now.Kayla keeps very busy at her part-time library job and loves it! Tuesday I… [...]

Flowers, food, friends, and family

Another Sunday bouquet from cousin Karin in Tennessee--delicate muted colors this time.On the home front, another surprise gladiolus! Monday evenings, at Stephan and Karen's, I've enjoyed the fragrant welcome of these hostas.When I gathered my photos for the weekly blog post, I was chagrined that there were so few and only of blooms and food. Of all the fellowship opportunities, not one photo to add to the sweet memories.I will have to use word pictures instead.We enjoyed John Tuggy's visit. He shared in church in the God is at Work segment, and also joined us at Monday Night Dinner. Stephan and… [...]

New Beginnings

Thanks again, Karin, for brightening the opening to this weekly photo-journal.These blooms provide a cheery welcome to Monday Night Dinner.Karen's cute new hairdo was a fun surprise as well. Tuesday, Moriah moved back in after five months. We enjoyed reconnecting with her but failed to get a photo.I noticed another move that day. Michael's recumbent bike hangs where the tandem used to be. He is grateful for the good health he is experiencing which allows him to ride his regular road bike. His total for the week exceeded 200 miles this time!Wednesday was Leah's first daily appointment at oncology. Actual radiation… [...]

Challenges

A colorful bouquet from Tennessee-cousin Karin to cheer us these days.Picking up from after the wedding last Sunday. . . We were already in Anderson, and it was the last opportunity to pick up the plastic sheets needed for making the deadline--to finish the 100 table dividers by Monday, the day before students' first day of school. Team Roboto in Anderson was given a thousand-pound roll of heavy plastic, which they use to make face shields, and they also share with PhyXTGears for their projects. A few team members joined us that evening at their place to help cut the… [...]

Ugly Ear

Propaganda

In case of a fire, do not use the elevator.In case of rejection, don't run to your father.In case of being lost, don't go somewhere you can be found.In case you lie, don't steal.In case you need a remedy, don't believe.There is news coverage in America that Jesus calls propaganda.Don't follow me. [...]

An Adulteress's Dream

I have a lullaby for an adulteress.Rest your head, but not next to your husband.Close your eyes and imagine yourself under different sheets.Listen to comforting music while you contemplate your sin.Remember your mother's breast as she whispered you to sleep.And hold onto your pillow while you avoid an accusation from a stone. [...]

Pregnant

Copyright 2017 Tamara PeachyI am naut pregnant.I just have an extended belly from late night popcorn, chewed all alone.I am not having a baby.I just look like I carried a burden for nine months.I am not seeking out a midwife because I don't want to know about pain.I am not taking prenatals because I just have an empty uterus that bleeds randomly.I am not dating because I understand responsibility. [...]

I Can't

Copyright 2017I was not made to save the black man.I was not old enough to save the Indian.I can't break down a wall, guarded by intensity, so the Mexicans are no more.I can't let Syrian refugees into my country because such fighters would get bored.I can't stand up for the Irish because I don't drink.I can't heal the sick because we are all going to die.I am a free American, and I can even lie. [...]

Only Hope

There is only hope in this,no mistake.This foundation is sure.There is only hope in this.Every promise true,all glory revealed.If we wait longer, the same end will come.There is only hope in this. [...]

I Will

I will His pleasure be.The luscious holiness of His gaze will silence my armies.My cruel boredom and apathy will fall asleep, waking pleasantly as a lifted voiceof desire for wholeness.I will His pleasure be.Crawling out of the mudto dress in royal white as a bridal song.Leaving everything that had me boundto carry His weight till His kingdom more fully come. [...]

Today

The swirl of the cutting knife...the slash of the open wound...heals in body and in soul.The day I look towardcomes sooner than the pain.If I remember to lift my face above the beamof flooding water.Will this day be always as beautifulor will another slice bring me to bleed?It matters not now.It matters that todayis a good day,not a death. [...]

Suddenly

Suddenly, I have no more past.The hand reaching for more than it can grasp,and suddenly touch.Suddenly, I have all I needto forbid everything I want.Suddenly, the world is straight,not slant.If I wait longer, I will arrive somewhere else.I long to stay, so suddenly I will rest. [...]

Coming

He's coming after me.Reigning on the earth.A Spirit of wisdom and revelation.He is searching the earth to find a faithful girl.A girl with a child's laughand a mother's affection.He's coming after me.To ransom me from the enemy.Zeal in His eyesand joy sealed on His heart.His presence is a warning and a hope.The Spirit of wisdom and revelation.The culmination. [...]

A Plunker’s Piano Lessons

I started piano lessons at five. I stopped at the ripe old age of nine. Statistics indicate I’m not alone; 6,761,141,370 of the world’s 6,761,141,379 people have taken — and quit — piano lessons. I blame my parents. Neither had musical training, yet Dad’s big hands overran the keyboard like a spring storm. Mom, though […] [...]

OMG, It’s Monday! Prayer: Definitely Outclassed

O Lord, thank You for grandsons whose energy output could light Chicago. You know that not too long ago, I easily outraced them. Now, however, my slow legs and weighty derriere always bring up the rear. OMG, even the two-year-old — especially, the two-year-old! — leaves me in the dust. [...]

Life with a View

A cushy chair faces a wall. A rear-paralyzing seat looks toward a captivating view. I always choose the latter. My brain, tethered to computer screens for hours, needs one-minute vacations — or five-minute — or fifteen-minute bits of visual refreshment to help me remember my name by day’s end. Even my claustrophobia bows to passion […] [...]

OMG, It’s Monday! Prayer: For Me, Remembering is a Miracle

O Lord, reading about Your feeding 5,000 people with a little bread and fish, I’m amazed by Your kindness. Your miracles. Yet, an ordinary mom or grandma probably baked those loaves. OMG, aren’t You glad she didn’t forget and let them rise way too long, unlike … um, some people You know? [...]

Mad About Camping

“You initiated an end-of-the-season campout,” my husband insisted. “To celebrate your completing a novel.” Crazy. I would never— Wait. After months in the writers’ cave, I do recall blurting something about an October campout. Exactly what a weary writer needed — extra laundry. Debates whether to pack heavy coats or light. How could I jam […] [...]

OMG, It’s Monday! Prayer: I’m in the Mood for … Pizza

O Lord, You know that for millennia, singers and writers have celebrated Your moon’s romantic beauty. Others, though, likened it to cheese, croissants, and cookies. 1950s singer Dean Martin even viewed the moon as a “big pizza pie.” OMG, it’s difficult for a dieter to stay starry-eyed when her stomach’s growling. … [...]

Top 10 Things about Fall

Nobody feels neutral about autumn’s advent. Mention fall, and you trigger one of two reactions: “No-o-o-o-o (weeping, wailing and gnashing of teeth)!” Or, “Ye-e-s-s-s (double fist pump)!” The first response typifies skinny beach bums and bunnies who evolved without sweat glands. They play tennis on boiling blacktop and Frisbee on 500-degree sand. My scientific theory: […] [...]

OMG, It’s Monday! Prayer: Marching to the Blessed Drummer

O Lord, with the COVID-19 crisis, my oldest grandchildren have practiced and marched in their bedrooms so they could perform for family and friends. OMG, if I followed You as carefully as they follow their directors, perhaps I, too, might help create something beautiful. And I probably wouldn’t collide with as many tubas. [...]

Growing Fat, Er, Fit with You

“I want to grow old with you.” A romantic line whose meaning gets lost in the translation. I thought “growing old with you” meant “growing fat with you.” Not that my husband and I don’t try to stay fit. We walk, hike, and bike. On a class reunion scale of one to 10, Hubby and […] [...]

OMG, It’s Monday! Prayer

[...]

Tips for Planning your UK Vacation, Part 2

In my previous post, I discussed making arrangements for travel to the UK and pointed out several reasons why I prefer to make my own reservations rather than booking through a travel agent or with a pre-planned group excursion. In this post, I will share my thoughts on how to make those reservations and list…Read more Tips for Planning your UK Vacation, Part 2 [...]

Where Fancy Wanders, Feet Should Follow

A Castle Old And Grey by Alexander Anderson, Scottish Poet I never see a castle That is gaunt and grey and grim, But my thoughts at once go backward To the past so misty and dim. To the time when tower and turret, Kept watch far over the vale; And along the…Read more Where Fancy Wanders, Feet Should Follow [...]

Tamara Leigh: One of My Favorite Authors

There are so many good books out there that rarely do I spend my precious time reading any of them twice. One author whose books I have read more than twice is Tamara Leigh. Tamara writes contemporary and medieval romance, and if you know me, you know I think there’s nothing better than a guy…Read more Tamara Leigh: One of My Favorite Authors [...]

Y2K. The Mayan Calendar. The Nibiru Cataclysm. The End of the World?

Today is Friday the 13th, so I suppose I rather expected my social media accounts to contain more than the usual cargo of wacky warnings about black cats, planet alignment and dire doomsday predictions. Sure enough, some group is claiming the biblical rapture will happen on April 23 because of a fictional planet known as…Read more Y2K. The Mayan Calendar. The Nibiru Cataclysm. The End of the World? [...]

Medieval mongrels…

On Saturday, I’ll be taking my doggie to intermediate puppy obedience class at AlphK9U in Fishers, IN (here’s a shout-out to an excellent dog obedience and sports facility). It’s a chance for my pup to socialize with other dogs, run-around and get some exercise, and swim (yep). I’ve always loved dogs and have owned a…Read more Medieval mongrels… [...]

Taylor University Professional Writing conference 2017

Taylor University Professional Writing Conference 2017 The second annual Taylor University Professional Writing Conference was held on the beautiful campus of Taylor University this past Friday and Saturday. The value of concentrated and intentional time spent in the company of other writers cannot be overrated – it is invaluable. I now find myself wandering…Read more Taylor University Professional Writing conference 2017 [...]

Of Power and Potties

The power was out today. According to the electric company, it was out for 30,000 people. My daughter, a high school sophomore, was delighted to get out of school early. I don’t know how the other 29,998 people felt about it, but I took the opportunity to ponder life before internet, electric lights and flush…Read more Of Power and Potties [...]

Taylor University Professional Writing Conference 2016

It has been just over a week since the conclusion of the first annual Taylor University Professional Writing Conference, hosted by the Taylor University Professional Writing Program. Kudos to Linda Taylor, Doc (Dennis) Hensley and their capable student staff for a first rate conference that didn’t break my bank. The two-day event featured guest speakers…Read more Taylor University Professional Writing Conference 2016 [...]

Maid to be a Bride

Out now! When Lady Daphne Battencourt’s uncle arranges for her to marry a wealthy, but vulgar, tradesman, she is resigned to her fate as the token wife of a heartless man. But after she realizes she would rather spend her life in service than marry without love, she finds herself in the role of lady’s…Read more Maid to be a Bride [...]

Sword of the Fairvern

My full length medieval time travel romance is finally available on Amazon.com! Available in digital and paperback format! Sword of the Fairvern Time can be good or bad, depending on whether you’re going forward or backward… Chevelle Delamar was known in the 21st century as the girl who shouldn’t have lived. Colwyn, Lord Beaumarche, is…Read more Sword of the Fairvern [...]

Interview, Review, and Giveaway

I met Jen Turano a few years ago at a writing conference. She took me to coffee and told me about how she started as a writer and asked me about my own projects. I am very excited to have the opportunity to interview her about her latest book, Storing Up Trouble. Make sure you… Continue reading Interview, Review, and Giveaway [...]

Sweets and Stress

I am not entirely sure who first pointed out that stressed was desserts spelled backward. Anyone with a sweet tooth can point to this unsub (yes, I have been watching mystery shows during quarantine) and say thank you for providing us all with the perfect excuse for eating cakes, cookies, and everything else most likely… Continue reading Sweets and Stress [...]

Of Names and Mysteries

Delbert. Who was he? I didn’t know much about him or the other people whose names graced the pages of the books that weigh more than my cat. She, ahem, is not particularly slim. As a title-abstractor-in-training, I am growing accustomed to all that it is involved in tracing a piece of property’s history. The… Continue reading Of Names and Mysteries [...]

The Word Not Chosen

Like most people, I am starting 2020 with multiple plans to start the new year right — and a plethora of highly silly jokes about having perfect vision because it is the year 2020. Sadly, I still need glasses and life doesn’t come with a ten-step program of the exact correct thing to do. One… Continue reading The Word Not Chosen [...]

Happy New Year!

[...]

Merry Christmas

Wishing you and yours a blessed Christmas as you celebrate the Savior’s birth! A Short Devotional When God selected those who would be mentioned as the visitors to His newborn Son, He could not have chosen two more different groups. First, He chose the shepherds. “And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in… Continue reading Merry Christmas [...]

No Title

[...]

A Child’s Guide to Paying a Compliment

They (those mysterious purveyors of all opinions) say to write what you know. Writers will agree that real life situations inspire them. Listening to conversations improves your dialogue-writing skills. Only, it is very important to consider the source of inspiration. As he approached, the butterflies in her stomach gave up fluttering and adopted clog dancing… Continue reading A Child’s Guide to Paying a Compliment [...]

E-bikes and Me-Powered Bikes

I have recently discovered that I am a biker chick. No, I am not revving the engine of a motorcycle and dressed in black leather. My one attempt to ride a motorcycle ended with a broken mirror and me miraculously not hurt…but that is another story. I prefer a regular old bicycle — fitted out… Continue reading E-bikes and Me-Powered Bikes [...]

Exhaustion and Dining Companions

Moving is exhausting. Writing conferences are exhausting. Vacations are exhausting. So, of course, it made sense to pack them as close together as pickles in a jar. In the last few weeks, I moved from the house I lived in for ten years, prepared and left for a writing conference in San Antonio, and decided… Continue reading Exhaustion and Dining Companions [...]

In Love with God’s Word: Because It’s a Love Letter

I’m guessing that the Bible is probably one of the world’s most misunderstood books. It’s also one of the most owned but unread books. How many people sitting in the pews of our churches, or claiming the Christian faith, or attending Christian universities have read through the entire Bible, let alone taken time to truly […] [...]

6 Masks I’ve Worn This Week: Pros & Cons

It’s a brand new school year and a brand new way of thinking and teaching. If I thought that going completely online with my classes last March was a challenge, I’m now trying to teach in masks. Below are pics of me trying these various masks and the pros and cons of each. I’m only a […] [...]

Good Old Summertime: Or Why I Got Nothing Done and I’m Okay with It

I truly tried. I had a list. I had a schedule. I had good intentions. I was going to GET STUFF DONE. Write some articles. Work with writing prompts. Submit. Start a more vigorous exercise program. Learn InDesign and Google Analytics. Write some letters. Instead, you know what I did? Not that. I rested. I […] [...]

6 Things I Learned Being an Online Prof

It’s been since March, the 18th to be exact, when our classrooms went dark, when tearful goodbyes were said (especially by seniors), when all of the faculty at Taylor University looked around at first with a sense of odd horror. Spring break had begun three days early, and that gave us about 12 days to […] [...]

6 Tips for Parents to Help Their Kids Survive as Virtual College Students

Last week’s post about surviving as a virtual college student offered some basic info for many students heading home to finish their semester. I (and all my colleagues at Taylor University and teachers pretty much everywhere) have been trying to comfort students and rework courses so we can deliver the desired learning outcomes in an […] [...]

6 Tips for Surviving as a Virtual College Student

With the current closing and moving to online classes of many schools and universities (including mine), I’ve realized the challenge that many of my students will be facing and want to offer some pieces of advice. (1) Remember that you’re still “in school” As you head away from campus — whether you’re going home or […] [...]

An Ode to My Typewriter

Sitting here typing away on my laptop has become second nature. There are moments, however, when I fondly recall my old Smith-Corona typewriter. What a treat it was to carry it to college in its snazzy case — my first electric typewriter. Toggle the on button, listen for the whir, insert bright white paper, roll down […] [...]

Close Reading — It’s Good for You

Back in June of 2015, I wrote a post about how excited I was to teach a class in our Professional Writing major called The Writer’s Craft. As it turns out, I’m teaching the same class again this spring semester, five years later. I have enjoyed recasting this class with some new writing to explore, […] [...]

In Love with God’s Word: Bible Reading Plans

The Bible is a funny book. Imagine if publishers today were trying to consider various books of the Bible on their own terms and whether or not to publish them: Gospel of John: “Really too much like three other books already on the market. And a bit too esoteric compared to the biographical and chronological […] [...]

In Love with God’s Word: Scripture Engagement & Journaling

I have a strange problem. As much as I love God’s Word and as important as I know it is for me in my daily life (and as much as I talk and write about that), I have struggled with my daily quiet time with God. Here’s the thing. I’ve been deep in the Bible […] [...]

Two for One Books

It’s two for one books! Preorder and receive a second book FREE! Releasing November 17, preorder The Ten Best Decisions A Single Mom Can Make and get two books for the price of one! Pre-order Gift for You Here’s how it works. 1) Preorder The Ten Best Decisions A Single Mom Can Make for you or someone who will enjoy it. […] The post Two for One Books appeared first on PeggySue Wells | Inspirational Speaker and Best-Selling Author. [...]

N.A. Noel

N.A. Noel has been a favorite artist since I first saw her work. Meeting her proved that her heart and character were as elegant as her work. Later, N.A. Noel was my guest on the radio talk show, gracious and generous with her story. A beauty dimmed, a spark quenched, Nancy Anne Noel left her […] The post N.A. Noel appeared first on PeggySue Wells | Inspirational Speaker and Best-Selling Author. [...]

Live An Intentional Life: Here’s How

Are You Living an Intentional Life? In these crazy times, it is easy to focus on the lack of control we feel in many areas of our lives. Yet, it is possible to live an intentional life – intentionally. Revive & Thrive: Live An Intentional Life online conference for women shows you how. It’s essential […] The post Live An Intentional Life: Here’s How appeared first on PeggySue Wells | Inspirational Speaker and Best-Selling Author. [...]

The Magic of Dogs

The Magic of Dogs, a heartwarming collection of true stories about dogs, releases this week. The magic of dogs is that these four-legged family members love sacrificially, wholeheartedly, and unconditionally. The magic of dogs is found in how they brighten our days, act as our therapists, and become our best friends—without saying one word. And […] The post The Magic of Dogs appeared first on PeggySue Wells | Inspirational Speaker and Best-Selling Author. [...]

What Does An Author Read for Research?

What does an author read for research? Gotta say, I was delighted when C. Kevin Thompson contacted me. “I have the book, The Slave Across the Street, and used it as research for my Blake Meyer Thriller Series along with a bunch of other human trafficking books,” the author said. “I donate well over ten percent of […] The post What Does An Author Read for Research? appeared first on PeggySue Wells | Inspirational Speaker and Best-Selling Author. [...]

The Girl Who Wore Freedom

Danielle Patrix is the girl who wore freedom. In America, we are privileged to wear freedom as a lifestyle, and on July 4 we celebrate the great gift of liberty. America has invested in the freedom of other nations, as well. Danielle Patrix was five-years-old on June 6, 1944, when American troops liberated her village of Sainte […] The post The Girl Who Wore Freedom appeared first on PeggySue Wells | Inspirational Speaker and Best-Selling Author. [...]

Peaceful Parenting

Peaceful parenting is the natural result of Bonding With Your Child Through Boundaries. Families thrive when children know what to do and parents have systems in place that relieve the need to nag. “Gabe, you left your skateboard in the driveway. If you choose not to put it away at the end of the day, […] The post Peaceful Parenting appeared first on PeggySue Wells | Inspirational Speaker and Best-Selling Author. [...]

Write Right Now! Begin or Finish Your Novel

Do you want to write a book right now? As the bestselling author of 29 titles and founder of Write Way, LLC, people contact me all the time, wanting to know how to write the story they want to share with the world. Having taught writing at conferences, at universities, and in schools, I’m teaching […] The post Write Right Now! Begin or Finish Your Novel appeared first on PeggySue Wells | Inspirational Speaker and Best-Selling Author. [...]

Make Father’s Day Less Awkward

Fathers Day can be awkward. Stats tell us that one in four homes is single parent led, and those are primarily single moms. That’s a lot of women and kids with an empty place where a dad is designed to be. “Writing a book to benefit others seemed as if I was digging in nasty […] The post Make Father’s Day Less Awkward appeared first on PeggySue Wells | Inspirational Speaker and Best-Selling Author. [...]

Remembering the Fallen on Memorial Day

Remembering the fallen on Memorial Day always reminds me of my grandfather who I never met. On July 6, 1944, a troop train transporting 1000 freshly minted soldiers, left Indianapolis bound for the Carolinas. From there they would be sent to the European theater of WW2. At sunset, a 16-year-old teen watching the train pass […] The post Remembering the Fallen on Memorial Day appeared first on PeggySue Wells | Inspirational Speaker and Best-Selling Author. [...]

October 2020
S	M	T	W	T	F	S
« Sep
				1	2	3
4	5	6	7	8	9	10
11	12	13	14	15	16	17
18	19	20	21	22	23	24
25	26	27	28	29	30	31