From the Desk of Kayleen Reusser

Moving On

2009-06-18T03:41:00.000-07:00

I’ve not written for a while, due to starting a new job. Much has happened here over the past several months, most of it good. Currently, my world-traveler daughter is home for a month from Indonesia and we’re loving it. She is happy teaching high school English at a Christian school in Indo so we’re happy for her, even though we miss her a lot when she’s gone.

I’ve had to cut back on my preaching about the need for more grandkids in this world, though. People (my kids) are getting tired of hearing it. Instead, I’m planning to adopt grandkids. Its the easiest way of getting them at this point, other than kidnapping.

We’ve had some difficult times in the last several months. My husband’s place of work – Taylor University-Ft Wayne – closed. That left him without a job. But thanks be to God, they called him back to resume his work as a maintenance worker. This was unexpected and a huge relief. It is a temporary position until the campus sells, but it is something with a pay check. We’re grateful.

It was hard to imagine with the current economy that any job were available. Please pray for the other employees who are now searching for jobs that they will find them.

I’ve been reading the book of Philippians in the Bible to stay encouraged. Among the many wonderful verses there I especially like these from the third chapter:

12Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 13Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

We can be angry that so many people are out of work or that such a Christ-centered institution closed its doors. But that part of it is over and we need to look forward to see where God places those people in new positions. It may mean moving to a new location or changing professions. With God’s help it will be done.

How has the economy affected you? Are you having to make personal changes to accommodate the economy?

2008-10-29T04:51:00.000-07:00

As of a couple of weeks ago, my husband and I will join the ranks of those being told their place of work is closing. Taylor University Fort Wayne, formerly Fort Wayne Bible College and Summit Christian College, will discontinue classes as of May 31, 2009. My husband works in maintenance at the campus and has a steady work history there. We have faith God will lead him and me, as I look for a job, to other jobs.
http://fw.taylor.edu/home/news/news_detail.shtml?inode=77392

I read these verses today and they really spoke to me about the Taylor University Fort Wayne situation:

Jer 24: 4 Then the word of the LORD came to me:

5 "This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: 'Like these good figs, I regard as good the exiles from Judah, whom I sent away from this place to the land of the Babylonians.

6 My eyes will watch over them for their good, and I will bring them back to this land. I will build them up and not tear them down; I will plant them and not uproot them.

7 I will give them a heart to know me, that I am the LORD. They will be my people, and I will be their God, for they will return to me with all their heart.

The most important thing is for us to have a heart to know God and to turn to Him with all of our heart. Sometimes life doesn't go the way we want. But we can trust Him with our future.

I’m praying everyone at Taylor University Fort Wayne – students, staff, and faculty -- makes the transition well.

The election is Tuesday! Pray about all of these things! God’s will be done. Amen.

Labor that Satisfies

2008-10-09T03:43:00.000-07:00

A friend pointed out that I had not posted a blog for a while. She’s right. Time got away and for a while I didn't feel inspired to share my thoughts. A daughter has moved overseas to teach in a school and that has taken some getting used to.

At the same time, I’ve been conscious, as have many Americans, of the affect the downturn in the economy has taken on lives. I know we’ve cut way down on our car trips to save money on gas. Back and forth to work and some occasional educational trips to a neighboring city have been the extent of our travels. We’re also gearing up for higher energy costs this winter. Oh joy.

Today I read verses in the Bible that seemed to apply to this national situation of tightening budgets. In Isaiah 55 the prophet wrote "Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost.”

That sounds great! Who would not want free food? I interviewed a director of a local food bank recently and she laments how the extra demands of customers this year has emptied her shelves. “For the first time in the 12 years I’ve been here I wonder if we will have enough money to get us through the winter,” she told me.

Food and drink – the necessities of life. How are you faring? Are you doing well enough to offer help to someone else?

The next words from the prophet project this, “Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy?” (1-2)

I think he’s saying to think carefully before spending your dollars. Will you really want that Vera Bradley bag in one month? Or could you use it to sponsor a child for six months in another country who is struggling to find money to go to school?

That is labor that satisfies.

I’ve been volunteering my labor in crocheting free caps for people who lose hair from cancer, burns and other illness through a group I helped to found called Stitches of Hope. You can find out more about how to help these people at our website: http://www.stitchesofhope.com/

We’ve received glowing thanks from hospitals and patients. There’s so much we can do to help others.

What help can you contribute to others during this challenging time? you won't regret it.

The unfolding of your words

2008-08-05T11:01:00.000-07:00

“The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.”- Psalm 119:130

It seems to me this should be the goal of every writer – that the unfolding or laying out of our words would give light to the reader. The words would illuminate someone’s life journey. Our written thoughts would offer a simple explanation to the issues that are confusing and complex.

How are you doing with your writing? Are you attempting to keep it all simple and easily understood? Look at your pronouns. Is it always understood to the reader what you are referring to? After I’m done with an article, I read back through it, looking for areas that seem ambiguous, then inserting the subject’s name several more times. I figure it’s always better to be too clear than not enough.

Of course this can also apply to the words we speak, whether in a speech or conversation. My husband often has to ask me what I’m talking about, especially if I’ve changed subjects in mid-conversation (which really isn't much of a conversation!). All of the “hims”, “hers”, and “its” make for some confusion in my speech. Go figure!

Sometimes it seems tedious to have to back everything up and fill in the blanks. But it will lead to better “light” and understanding if you do.

Think about it.

Saying Good-Bye to Mandy

2008-07-31T16:40:00.000-07:00

Mt 19:14 Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."

Today is a momentous day in our family’s history. Our oldest daughter left today to teach high school English in Indonesia. It is a 2 year commitment. She says she’ll come home next summer. That seems like a long time.

I’ve not cried after leaving the airport. I’m not sure when it will hit me that she’s gone. I’m going to avoid looking at her computer desk and bedroom for several days. But several pieces of mail came for her today. I opened them slowly. This was not something we had remembered to discuss. We knew to talk about passwords, transfer of car keys, phone numbers, car insurance. I’m not forwarding hardly anything as I’ve been told it takes forever for mail to arrive. That makes her seem very far away, which she is.

She’s called once to say she’s already had delays in departures leaving our local airport and then in Chicago.
Her trip halfway across the world will take 2-3 days. That’s a long time to be traveling alone in a strange country. I worry about her being tired and carrying a new laptop, a passport, some cash for meals. Somebody could steal them easily when she dozes in between flights.

I know she can take care of herself, but that’s if everyone else behaves themselves. Still, I can't worry or I’ll be too upset to do anything else.

She's always been a child of God -- when we took her to church weekly all during her growing up years and now as a beautiful young woman. She has chosen to stay close to God and honor Him in her life. She believes it's His will for her to go to Indonesia. We support her in that decision.

Still, it is difficult.

We will miss you greatly, Mandy. We pray for you constantly. Love you, Mom

Create for Others

2008-07-08T03:29:00.000-07:00

“I will bow down toward your holy temple and will praise your name for your love and your faithfulness, for you have exalted above all things your name and your word.”- Psalm 138:2

**
I’m involved in a new ministry and can't wait to tell about it.

This summer, my friend, Marissa Whitesell, and I have begun a fiber arts club among the women at our church. Last winter Marissa began telling me about her interest in crocheting and how much fun it was. I found a book on teaching yourself to crochet and it worked!

I’m by no means now an accomplished crocheter, but I do know the basics and am enjoying the opportunity to make something with my hands. I began knitting years ago and have resumed that also, due to another friend’s influence (see below).

Marissa has been sharing her crocheting talents via dozens of darling chemo caps for people who have lost their hair to illness.

She has also made baby blankets for friends, squares for afghans, and smaller projects for nursing home residents. Her energy and enthusiasm for helping people through this craft are limitless!

This summer we formed a group of fiber artists at our church, the First Church of Christ, in Bluffton, Indiana. Anyone who wants to crochet or knit can come together one hour a week to chat, learn new techniques, share patterns, etc. Marissa has put together packets of information to get people started. She’s so organized!

It’s been a fun way to meet people and become more familiar with ways our fingers and hearts can help others.

I took some pics of our projects to show here. Aren’t these chemo caps beautiful and professional looking? They were made by several of the ladies in our group. Marissa has sent out several caps to organizations around the country that need them for patients. We pray these will raise the spirits of those who are experiencing difficult times.

There are many national organizations that collect fiber arts items for the needy.

That leads me to pass on another inspiration for my recent interest in fiber arts. Since 1991, I’ve read novels by Debbie Macomber. She is an admitted knit-o-holic, and her passion for knitting provided the inspiration for five New York Times bestselling novels, beginning with THE SHOP ON BLOSSOM STREET in 2004.

Each book talks about knitting projects as part of the plot and each book also includes a pattern for a project mentioned in the book. In May 2008 Debbie’s newest novel in this series, 20 WISHES, lists even more projects.

As a result of her interest in knitting, Debbie has become involved with Warm Up America!, the knitting industry charity that provides homemade afghans and clothing to those in need, even joining their Board of Directors in 2005.

When the opportunity arose to lend her name, Debbie has donated all of her proceeds from a series of pattern books to charity. To date, she has personally donated more than $44,000 to various charities and she has earmarked the proceeds from 20 WISHES for three of her favorites.

Here are some of her favorite charities and ones I would recommend:

Warm Up America!: This is my personal favorite way to help because it uses leftover yarn to knit or crochet 7” x 9” squares, which can be joined into afghans and donated to men, women and children in need. For more information and complete instructions, go to http://www.warmupamerica.org/.

Project Linus (provides security through blankets): “Blanketeers” provide new, handmade, washable blankets to be given as gifts to seriously ill and traumatized children, ages 0 -18. All sizes are accepted, depending on the needs of the local chapters. For more information and suggested patterns, go to http://www.projectlinus.org/.

Guideposts Knit for Kids: A volunteer effort that connects individuals from all over the world through Guideposts Magazine. Supporters knit or crochet a Knit for Kids sweater in any color or size using one of the patterns provided online. Guideposts clothes needy children in America and around the world in places like Romania, Turkey, Azerbaijan and Kosovo. For more information and patterns, go to http://www.knitforkids.org/.

This spring I was able to meet and interview Debbie for a local book signing and it was a real thrill. She’s my favorite author, as well as my mom’s. We’ve read nearly all of her 80+ books.

I’m sharing details with you here in hopes it will encourage you to provide handmade items for needy people.

We’re inviting all who read this to become part of our goal to help others through handmade crafts. There are so many ways you can help others by creative efforts.

If quilting is your specialty, then consider donating a quilt to a fundraiser.
If you make woodcrafts, build some for kids to paint and then donate them (the birdhouses, not the kids) to a nursing home. The idea is to give of yourself through your creative talents. In doing so you will bless so many people.

If you’d like to share information about you or your group’s fiber arts projects, drop me a line or send a pic. We’re always looking for ways to encourage interest and promote generosity in the talents God has given us.

Take care,

A Meeting with Debbie Macomber!

2008-06-19T07:00:00.000-07:00

Ps. 126:3 "The LORD has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy."

This week I had the privilege of meeting one of America’s best women’s fiction writers – Debbie Macomber. She was at a book signing in our area. My mother, Joan Brewer, and I have read over 60 of her books and enjoyed each one.

Mom and I arrived a couple of hours before the book signing and saw we were not the first ones there! Some women had showed up 4 hours early! It was held at a large department store so we were able to lunch and shop while there. That was helpful, but another bonus was meeting other readers who like Debbie’s books as much as we do.

One of them was Karen Pettyjohn, a reader from Ohio. She chatted with us for a while and agreed to take our photo. Thanks, Karen! Debbie is dressed in white. I am standing beside her.

My editor at the Fort Wayne News-Sentinel newspaper agreed to let me write an article about Debbie for a column. We tied in the interview I did with Debbie to a Fort Wayne book club that won a national contest as part of Debbie’s book tour. This book club submitted their name to the contest and won! The prize? A dinner out with Debbie! How fun would that be?

I was not part of the dinner, but I did interview the woman who was in the club and she and her friends were excited about meeting and dining with Debbie. This same woman was involved with a prayer shawl ministry, which Debbie mentions in her Blossom Street books.

If you knit or crochet, I encourage you to read these books. They will inspire you to use your skills to help others. If you have not knitted in a while, as was my case (20 years), they will encourage you to get started. I’ve done this and started a small knitting/crocheting club at a local coffee house. Anyone can attend. We are at all levels and are willing to share experience and patterns. It is a relaxing hour and most of us are using it to make items for others – baby blankets, chemo caps, and afghans.

Here is Debbie’s website for more information on her and organizations that can benefit from knitting talents:

http://www.debbiemacomber.com/

And here is a link to the story I wrote about Debbie and the book club that won a dinner with her recently.
Depending on when you read this, it may not be available:
http://www.news-sentinel.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080611/NEWS01/806110330

Let me know if you decide to start knitting or have another connection with this fun hobby. Even if you don't have access to a teacher, don't give up. Last winter, I taught myself to crochet using a Dummies book!

If I can do it, you can do it.

Take care,

Jonathan and David -- Finding Strength in God

2008-05-21T16:36:00.000-07:00

I Sam 23: 16 “And Saul's son Jonathan went to David at Horesh and helped him find strength in God.”

I found this beautiful verse about friendship today in my daily Bible reading.

Wow! Isn't that a beautiful word picture of what a friend does?

I have several Jonathan friends in my life. They spend time with me and express encouragement for my attempts to serve God through writing and other ways.

I also hope to be a Jonathan to my friends. It’s not always easy.

David and Jonathan were having problems with Jonathan’s father who was jealous of David. Jonathan could have sided with his father and demanded the throne go to him after Saul’s death. But he recognized David as God’s anointed and stepped aside to allow God’s plan.

Do you have a Jonathan in your life – someone who wants the best for you, will support you and stand up to those who don't?

And a better question – are you a Jonathan? Do you stand up for your friends and do you support them when they need it?

Try to extend a Jonathan-hand today to someone in your life who needs it. In doing so, you’ll help him or her find strength in God. Your day of life will have purpose.

Take care,

My dad's birthday

2008-05-12T08:55:00.000-07:00

"I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile. 17For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: "The righteous will live by faith." Rom. 1:16-17

Today was my dad’s birthday. He’s been gone a couple of years from complications due to surgery and we miss him greatly.

At this time of graduation, it brings back some regrets at his passing. I so wish he could have seen my kids graduate from college and my youngest from high school. He would be so proud of them. He loved them and all of us in the family unconditionally. I always knew I could go to my dad with any problem and he would listen and try to help.

I tried not to take advantage of that as I got older, but it was tempting to look to someone for help who always wanted to fix my problems.

Dad loved people so much. Whenever I see a certain guy at church, I think of how Dad counseled him and offered friendship when the guy had legal problems.

His own dad died when dad was a young man, which meant he was now the man of the house. That was a challenge with a large family to feed.

But Dad worked hard and learned to be a businessman on his own. Without going to college, he developed three businesses during his lifetime that profited him well.

He liked to work with his hands. He always had a great workshop. I have two large bookcases and a beautiful cedar chest he made for me, as he did for each of my sisters. If I had asked him to make anything for me out of wood, he would have done so.

Now it is tomato-planting time and that also makes me think of Dad as “once a farmer, always a farmer.” He moved in to town with Mom the last decade of his life, but he had a big backyard and lots of room to grow things like flowers and plants. He was still experimenting that last summer with new tomato plants that were supposed to be huge!

Dad was a back to nature kind of guy, but he liked the latest gadgets too. I remember the first microwave we had – it was huge!! We could have put all of our plates for our family inside at once to be warmed.

One memory I have is the number of men he would employ to work for him. I didn't know it at the time, but some of them had been released from jail and couldn't find another job.

Dad took a chance with them, as these guys could have stolen his expensive tools. But as far as I know, that never happened. Now I write a newsletter for a jail chaplaincy group and I think of Dad whenever I read about an inmate who can't find a job. He needs someone like my dad in his life to give him a boost.

Dad, we miss you, but we know you’re in a wonderful place and we can't wait to join you some day.
Love, Your daughter, Kay

A Tribute to Mother's Day

2008-05-09T05:12:00.000-07:00

" But Ruth replied, "Don't urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go, I will go, and where you stay, I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. 17 Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried. May the LORD deal with me, be it ever so severely, if anything but death separates you and me." 18 When Naomi realized that Ruth was determined to go with her, she stopped urging her. Ruth

I was reading the book of Ruth today in the Bible and ran across this beautiful passage. Naomi’s husband and two sons (one was Ruth’s husband) have all died. Naomi is telling her daughters in law to return to their own people and start new lives. But Ruth refuses.

Most people who I have heard quote this do it from a viewpoint of a man and woman who love each other and want to be married forever.

But it is actually the words of a young woman who has a beloved mother in law and doesn't want to see her suffer more by being alone.

In tribute to Mother’s Day which is coming up, I want to say what a terrific mother in law I had for 19 years. Jane was helpful, friendly, talented, happy, and hard-working. She didn't offer advice when it was not wanted, nor was she critical of decisions we did make. She loved our children and they loved her. When we lost her to cancer in 1999, it was one of the saddest days of my life. I loved her second only to my own mom of the women in my life.

My mother is still living and has all of the above attributes. She lost my dad a few years ago but has done well at managing that grief and yet still chooses to get up each day and look at the world as a good place. We are very proud of her.

She lives close to me and if I have anything to say about it, always will. I know people who live across the country from their elderly parents and that is not a choice I would make. I want to be with my mom through everything and I know she feels the same about our family.

My husband and children have been blessed with terrific, god-fearing mothers and grandmothers and we know that is worth more to us than money in the bank. Thank you, God, for giving us these wonderful ladies. And Thanks, Mom, for loving us so much.

Today is the National Day of Prayer

2008-05-01T14:21:00.000-07:00

Today is the National Day of Prayer.

Pray without ceasing – I Thessalonians 5:17

In honor of this day I’ve sent out an email to all of my friends, asking for prayer requests. I’ve been amazed at the severity of prayer requests I heard. Cancer fears, divorce, family problems. Not all were that bad, but I prayed for each one, no matter the severity.

If you believe in prayer, I encourage you to touch base with your friends and find out their prayer needs. It’s a good way to let people know you care about them.

Our country was established on the belief in and power of prayer. One of the best ways we can support our troops is to pray for them. Several people asked me to pray for our soldiers’ safety and mental health. I did so, of course. They are never far from my thoughts.

Take a moment now to pray for our nation, families, government leaders, and soldiers. Don't forget to pray for yourself. You have to love yourself before you can love others.

National Day of Prayer is coming up

2008-04-30T04:33:00.000-07:00

Ps 15:1 LORD, who may dwell in your sanctuary? Who may live on your holy hill?
2 He whose walk is blameless and who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from his heart
3 and has no slander on his tongue, who does his neighbor no wrong and casts no slur on his fellowman,
4 who despises a vile man but honors those who fear the LORD, who keeps his oath even when it hurts,
5 who lends his money without usury and does not accept a bribe against the innocent. He who does these things will never be shaken.

Tomorrow is the National Day of Prayer. Since I have a dentist appointment and other engagements tomorrow, I may not get to post then so I’m mentioning it now. This is a significant day in our nation, a day when people can put aside differences and ask God to forgive them and bless them according to His grace.

Psalm 15 gives us a good example of someone who God will honor when that person comes before him with petitions. I fail at most of these regularly, but I still strive to please God in everything I do.

Do you need a prayer said for you today? If so, let me know. I’ll be glad to lift your name before the Father and ask him to take care of you.

Keep praying,

Spring Break in Key West

2008-04-25T04:40:00.000-07:00

“To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. We proclaim him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ.”- Colossians 1:27-28

**

This spring my husband and I went to Florida to visit our daughter. We drove to Key West and visited there for one day. This is our second trip there and it was just as fun the second time. We visited the Ernest Hemingway house which was really interesting.

We also had Key Lime Pie and it was delicious! In fact, the funny thing is, we stopped to eat somewhere almost every hour! Of course it was hot (80 degrees) and we were not used to walking around in such heat so we reasoned we had to take breaks.

We also visited the Mel Fisher Museum. He has brought up dozens of finds from shipwrecks around the state. It was a nice cool place to take a break (without eating!).

I trekked up the lighthouse – my quads hurt for days afterward!

Another food stop was the very informal B.O. Fish Wagon – if you’ve never been there, you will think it is a junk yard but you won't believe how good the food is. This was the seventh food stop so we mainly stopped there for old time’s sake since we had eaten here 10 years ago and gotten a kick out of it. It was just as good now as then.

The next day, my husband and daughter took a ride on the glass bottom boat at the John Pennekamp State Park. The waves that day were so high they recommended everyone take a Dramamine! I of course declined from such a tummy-tumbling episode and sat in the sun and read mystery magazines for 2 hours. It was great. The ride was not too bad for my husband and daughter so they enjoyed it.

We also stopped at Key Largo and saw the boat used in the African Queen.

If you’ve never been to Key West and the rest of the Keys, we recommend it. In fact, we plan to go back again someday and spend more time there.

Did you have a good spring break trip? Let me know about it. I love to hear about good places to go. Gas prices don't have to dictate our choice of fun.

Positive thinking from an unexpected source

2008-03-05T12:36:00.000-08:00

The Master Mind group I’m in has had trouble meeting this winter, due to weather and illness. But we plan to get together very soon and make up for our long separation.

I almost felt like I was meeting with my inspirational partners yesterday in church when my pastor, Larry Sprinkle from the First Church of Christ, started talking about Expecting the Best out of life.

He based his sermon on the Bible verse: Ephesians 3:20

“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us.”

We can take 2 approaches to life:

1. Pessimistic. Job said, “What I always feared has happened to me, what I dreaded has come true.” Job 3:25

2. Or we can take the Optimistic approach.

The Apostle Paul was in prison for his belief in Jesus Christ as the Messiah, yet he wrote to the believers in Philippi:
“I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.” Philippians 1:20

Paul believed that his beliefs would not be disappointed, even though he might have been what some might call “Down on his luck.”

My preacher also said, “Faith is a muscle. Exercise it.”

He then listed some ways for us to stay optimistic and exercise that muscle:

1. Start your day with faith.
We can do this by reading our Bibles each day. I do this through http://www.biblegateway.com/. It makes it handy and its large print is easier for these old eyes to see! Here’s a verse to remind us of starting the day out right:
“In the morning, O LORD, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation.” Psalm 5:3

2. Then we should look for good in every situation.
This is based on Romans 8:28, my favorite verse since I was a teen:
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

This can be difficult, but our thoughts are not God’s thoughts as it says in Psalms. Who knows what good can come from the tricky situation?

Other points my pastor made were to give our problems to God (2 Corinthians 1: 9-11); eliminate negative words (Ephesians 4:29), associate with positive people (Ephesians 4:29), and to remember our future! (I Corinthians 2:9)

I hope these words will strengthen your desire to make something of yourself and to see that life can be one opportunity after another if we put our priorities in order.

Take care.

Join The Writers View

2008-03-01T05:33:00.000-08:00

"Great peace have they who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble."
Psalm 119:165

It’s been a while since I’ve posted. I’m still writing full-time and battled a sinus problem in most of January. The good thing is, in January I finished writing a children’s biography on a popular country music star. When I mean popular, I mean at the top! I could barely keep up with this girl’s numbers of record sales, TV interviews, and guest appearances. She is a great role model and when the book is ready to be released, I’ll let you know the name so you can be sure to get a copy for your favorite tween! It will be marketed to 8-12 year olds.

I’m thrilled with this opportunity to break into the children’s markets and look forward to working on my next assignments with the same publisher. Thankfully, the subjects of those books are not living so they won't be setting new records. J

One thing I have found helpful in my freelance writing career is to be a member of The Writer’s View, an online writing forum. It is made up of new and professional writers who post daily in response to questions brought up by the moderator.

If you want to know more about writing and meet some great people who will respond to questions, I encourage you to sign up for The Writers View.

Here is the “webfomercial”:

If you're an aspiring writer and want to get a writers conference in yourinbox, consider joining The Writer View. It's free. It's amazing. You'll learn everything you'd learn at a writer's conference sans meeting cool people face to face. And you don't have to pay airfare!How they work: Each Monday and Thursday a panelist poses a question aboutthe publishing industry, the craft of writing, or anything related to thewriting journey.

These panelists are agents, editors, writers who are well known in the Christian writing industry. Then, panelists and members write posts about the question raised. I still learn new things every week. It's a moderated loop, so there's no blatant self promotion. Word counts are limited to 250 per post.For beginning to intermediate writers, the group to join is TWV 2. Clickhe<http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TWV2/> .For advanced, published writers, join The Writers View. Click here<http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TheWritersView/> .You will be asked to fill out an application that you then send to thegroup's leadership. You'll receive an email letting you know whether you'vebeen accepted.

It’s a great opportunity to learn a lot of information on a daily basis. Let me know if you sign up. I’ll look for your post!

Empty Nest Thoughts

2008-01-12T15:30:00.000-08:00

You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”- Galatians 3:26-28

**
It was a good day today. I finally cleaned up our bedroom which had been filled with crates of family momentos that have been stationed there since last fall. For some strange reason last fall I decided to clean out the attic for the first time in 15 years. There was an incredible amount of stuff in there, most of which I didn't know what to do with but I didn't want it back up in the attic. Hence, it sat in the bedroom until after the holidays.

Looking at the mess for four months was getting to me. Even though I really hate to clean and sort, I knew the mess could not sit there any longer. Plus, I needed a break from the book I’m writing. So I set aside a few hours and set to work.

The stuff was mostly a combination of photos of our family and items my kids have made over the years, none of which I can throw away. I’m not a scrapbooker, just a sentimentalist, so most of the stuff went back into containers which will go back into the attic. But I did get rid of a considerable amount of stuff, so it was a good feeling to be able to see the floor of the attic and know what was in each box up there—not junk, but stuff I’ll again deal with at a later date.

As we are empty nesters now and two of our kids live across the country, it was sometimes painful to look at the items, as it brought back a lot of memories and made me miss them. They’ve only been gone a couple of weeks and it will be months before we see them again.

But they’re doing well so that’s what’s important. This may be a downer to read, but it is a part of mothering that’s real. I’m learning we don't stop mothering just because the kids are over 18 and out of the house. We help our kids by listening to them make decisions about their lives, sending notes to cheer them and let them know they're not forgotten, and keep them informed about hometown news.

How do you deal with your empty nest? Do you have hints of things to do to mother adult single children?

Happy (Belated) New Year!

2008-01-11T13:08:00.000-08:00

“In my anguish I cried to the LORD, and he answered by setting me free. The LORD is with me; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?”- Psalm 118:5-6

**
A new year! I’ve been remiss in keeping this up during the holiday season, partly due to a heavy work load from a business magazine I write for that is putting out an anniversary issue in February and had an unusually large number of profiles to get done in December. Of course, I’m not complaining, but it was tricky contacting the jewelry business owner whose busiest season is at Christmas!

Still it was a good season – all 3 of our kids came home. Two are living on their own now across the country so we were thrilled the weather stayed calm. Our youngest has started college. They are their own individuals and we could not be prouder of them. We had a great time together and it was a lot of fun having them around. But they are back to being a teacher, student, and USAFA pilot-in-training so we don't want to hold them back.

As for goals for the new year, I’ve set a few. I’d like to double my writing income, mainly so I can tithe more of it to a children’s home in Mexico that I believe strongly in and have known about all of my life.

It is run by a Christian couple – Dave and Sheri DeBolt -- and is one of the most honorable missions I’ve ever heard of. Not one dollar goes to waste there. It is called Casa de Ninos in San Lois Potosi. For more information contact Dave at Cdnfamily@aol.com.

That is where I’ve tithed my writing income in 2007. Hopefully it paid for a lot of tortillas! Seriously, some of the children at the school are approaching college-age and want to go to better themselves. The home could use additional funds for this and also to add a set of houseparents to help the DeBolts.

Since I graduated from college, worked at one for nine years and have sent all three of our kids to college, along with my husband, I definitely believe in this goal. I’m committed to working harder to help these students get to college.

I also reached a goal of reading through the Bible in a year – my first time since I was a teen! It’s helpful to read it online at www.biblegateway.com. Try it!

Did you set goals this year? If so, what are they and how do you plan to reach them? It’s not too late, if you’ve not created any yet.

Thanks to the US Military

2007-11-23T06:35:00.000-08:00

“Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.”- Psalm 100:4-5

I’m a day late in expressing my personal thanks to the men and women in the US military. I was thinking of many of them yesterday as I spent the day with family minus a son who is in the Air Force and stationed across the country. He was with extended family members so that made the absence a little easier. My daughter is also living across the country but was able to spend time with her grandpa for Thanksgiving.

But for those in the military who were separated from their families for Thanksgiving and may have to be separated for Christmas, please know my family and nearly all of the people at my church and in my Midwestern community support you and your efforts to bring peace and stability to so many areas of the world.

We know you’re not perfect, but you are willing to go places most of us would be afraid to venture to and you’re willing to give up time with families which most of us don’t want to do.

Thanks from the bottom of our hearts for your courage and strength and willingness to help. You are a tremendous asset to our nation.

God bless. We’re praying for you.

Thanks, Vets!

2007-11-12T15:25:00.000-08:00

“For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding.”- Colossians 1:9

Yesterday was Veterans Day. I didn’t have my computer on so I couldn’t post a comment for all of the veterans so this is it today.

I didn’t grow up in a military family and didn’t know anyone who was in any branch of the service. Then I married a man who was in the Air Force. He created the love for flying in our son who is now a graduate of the United States Air Force Academy and planning to enter flight training soon. I’m proud of both of them and know my outlook has changed from having military members for loved ones.

Yesterday I watched an hour-long documentary on the D-Day invasion. Several survivors of that day were interviewed. Their remembrances from 60 years later – guilt from surviving, horrific pics in their minds from scenes of buddies dying on Omaha Beach that still ply them with nightmares – were heart-wrenching.

By the end of the hour, my waste basket was full of used tissues. I kept thinking, they were the same age or even younger than my son. What were they doing there? Why did they have to go through that?

Having family members in the military has made me more sensitive to this type of program. But hopefully even if I had never had a loved one in the military I would still respect each person who has ever served and continue to pray for them daily.

Thanks to each person who has ever served for our country and to their families who give up a lot to help our country. You are not forgotten. You are loved and respected deeply.

Our church is planning to send Christmas cheer boxes to military people at Christmas. What could you do to help a member of the military this Christmas?

I love hymns!

2007-11-10T07:21:00.000-08:00

Day and night they never stop saying, "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty . . ." Revelation 4:8

As a 40s-something with 3 adult children, I look forward to the time when my kids will yearn for hymns as my husband and I do in worship at church and at home. I played them often at home and hope some of the words soaked into my children’s minds before they moved out.

Hymns are like meat of spirituality – they fill me in the depths of my being. Almost the minute I hear the beginning chords of a hymn, my spirit starts to soar, my heart constricts and tears rush to my eyes as I think of my sin and unworthiness when standing before God. Then a verse comes up that tells how God saved us and I’m at peace again.

I’m sorry, but few modern-day songs have that effect on me.

Most contemporary Christian songs are God-filled, but the repetition and simple lyrics seem like whipped cream – light and fluffy.

Yet, more churches seem to be catering to young people by conducting separate worship services with contemporary choruses. We attended a church recently that had 2 worship services going on simultaneously – one was hymns, another contemporary choruses.

Ultimately, music should not be used to separate believers, but bring them together. Which service would Jesus have chosen?

What do you think about hymns and contemporary Christian music? Should churches have separate services for each? Which do you prefer?

Here’s one of my favorites, 'Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus. It is in public domain, but I found the lyrics at www.hymnsite.com. This is a handy site for reviewing the words to your favorite hymn. You can even hear it being played on piano, organ or bells. Cool!

'Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus,
and to take him at his word;
just to rest upon his promise,
and to know, "Thus saith the Lord."
Refrain: Jesus, Jesus, how I trust him!
How I've proved him o'er and o'er!
Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus!
O for grace to trust him more!

2. O how sweet to trust in Jesus,
just to trust his cleansing blood;
and in simple faith to plunge me
neath the healing, cleansing flood!

(Refrain)

3. Yes, 'tis sweet to trust in Jesus,
just from sin and self to cease;
just from Jesus simply taking
life and rest, and joy and peace.

(Refrain)

4. I'm so glad I learned to trust thee,
precious Jesus, Savior, friend;
and I know that thou art with me,
wilt be with me to the end.

(Refrain)

Redeeming Love

2007-11-09T03:51:00.000-08:00

Sow for yourselves righteousness, reap the fruit of unfailing love, and break up your unplowed ground; for it is time to seek the LORD, until he comes and showers righteousness on you. Hosea 10:12

Isn’t this a beautiful verse? It is from the book of Hosea from the Bible which I admit I may never have read before. It is the same book that the talented author, Francine Rivers, studied and came up with the idea of writing a novel based on the premise of the book. Rivers’ book is called Redeeming Love. It is a wonderful account of how a man loved a woman, despite her waywardness, and how she came to love him as a faithful wife. The Bible story tells about how the people of God turned away from him and how He showed compassion on them.

It is inspiring to think how creativity can help writers come up with ideas and carry them out. This biblical story had sat under the noses of people for 1000s of years. Yet it took the heart and mind and hard work of Rivers to portray it in novel form.

What story is sitting under your nose that could be inspiration for a devotion, poem, short story, or even novel? Sometimes all it takes is looking at something at a certain angle. Try to see things from a new point of view and pray that inspiration will strike as it did for Francine Rivers.

Take care,

Forming a MasterMind group

2007-10-12T04:49:00.000-07:00

“Listen to advice and accept instruction, and in the end you will be wise. Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails.”- Proverbs 19:20-21

I don’t think I’ve talked much here about my involvement with a Master Mind group during the past year. A Master Mind group was something I first heard about a year ago when a member of my Toastmasters group gave a speech on the book, Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill.

It was an interesting speech. Later, I checked the book out of my public library to read. In the book Hill, a writer from the early 20th century, mentions the important of forming a Master Mind group for success in life. This is a group of like-minded people who are willing and committed to work together on individual goals for their lives and careers.

As a writer, it is sometimes a lonely lifestyle, working on projects by myself all of the time. Most of the time I love being by myself and having quiet around me. But I do enjoy talking with people. I also needed a boost in my motivation and knowledge of how to grow my writing career.

So at the next writing meeting I attended, I looked around at the other people there and wondered if some of them might be interested in forming a group. A couple of women had been friendly with me before and after the meetings. Neither was a full-time writer. One was a lawyer and the other, a therapist. They wanted to know more about writing for side projects and possible future careers.

When I talked to them about the idea of meeting monthly for discussions about how to get our careers jumpstarted through a Master Mind group, they enthusiastically embraced the idea. Both read Hill’s book and understood what we may be able to accomplish by working together.

Since January 2007, we have met monthly to update each other on our progress and goals. No doubt this has been a significant year for all of us, due to our Master Mind group. My friends have both initiated new businesses with products they created. While they are continuing their regular careers, they are actively pursuing other avenues of income and learning much about the process of marketing and selling. I’m proud of them and enjoy our meetings together.

On my end my writing has been elevated several notches through their encouragement and practical advice. By their willingness to meet to listen and suggest ideas of story ideas, I’ve been in new magazines this year, including Indianapolis Monthly (3 stories!), Outdoor Indiana, cover stories for Business People Magazine and Fort Wayne Magazine, and 2 Chicken Soup books. This is besides my regular assignments in other publications.

Also, as a result of having formed a Master Mind group and writing about it in this blog, I was asked to contribute monthly to a great blog created by Evan Carmichael.
(http://www.evancarmichael.com/Mastermind-Group/labels/kayleen%20reusser.html). This is an informative and exciting website for entrepreneurs. I encourage you, no matter what field of endeavor you are pursuing, to go to this site and study it. There’s something there for everyone.

While we have read that an ideal Master Mind group is between 6-8 people, the three of us are content growing our group slowly to ensure that the people who join will be committed and willing to help others. We all have profited from joining a Master Mind group in 2007 and I encourage you to think about doing the same in 2008.

It may take a while to find people who are interested and you will want to allow time to do some reading on the subject to be prepared for goal-setting, adjustments in your thinking, etc. It has made 100% difference in my thinking and way of life. It’s exciting stuff!

Other helpful authors are Jack Canfield (The Success Principles), Anthony Robbins, Zig Ziglar, and Mark Victor Hansen.

Let me know your thoughts on this subject, especially if you are already in a Master Mind group. How has it made a difference in your life?

Take care and have a good weekend!

Written a Good Book Lately?

2007-10-03T06:06:00.000-07:00

“Praise to God for a Living Hope, Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,”- 1 Peter 1:3

For years I’ve struggled with the idea of writing a book. I’ve always loved writing magazine articles – the research was fun, but when it was done after a few days, I was ready to move on.

I’ve done fairly well in this area with 1,500 published stories in nearly 100 publications, including three Chicken Soup books -- for the Christian Soul 2, Coffee Lover's Soul, and Christmas Soul. The last 2 are being released in fall 2007. The other was released in 2006.

Yet it seemed writers were better off if they wrote books. Every time I went to a writer’s conference that’s all the people there were talking about – writing books.

The problem is, I’ve never wanted to write a book, even though I read dozens each year—mostly fiction. I admire fiction writers for their ability to create plots and dialog and characters. It really amazes me how it all comes together!

All right, I told myself recently, I’ll at least think about it. I'm even praying, asking God if He has a book for me to write. It would have to be non-fiction as my mind does not come up with plots.

Thus far, nothing has come to mind, so I'm not pushing it. I figure better no book than a bad one.

But I'm reading about how to put a book proposal together at least so when it comes time, I'll be ready. It’s Terry Whalin’s

Book Proposals That Sell: 21 Secrets to Speed Your Success (Write Now Publications).

I dreaded picking it up, thinking it would be like learning another language and that I would not understand it at all.

But having read Whalin’s blog (http://terrywhalin.blogspot.com/) for several years and profited from it as a writer, I was willing to try. He is a great writer and very easy to understand.

Glory be, at least within the first few pages, I was thrilled to see I knew much of the information! Perhaps that comes from studying the craft of writing for 15 years. (Maybe this is a clue I’m closer to writing a book than I had thought!). Whalin's book held additional information that was new to me and valuable.

Now I’ll read the rest of the book and think seriously about this project of writing a book. I know the work is not over when the book is published. That is when I have to be available for marketing it. But if I’m excited about the book and believe in it, it makes sense that I would want to promote it, right?

That means book signings, radio, print and possibly TV interviews, and a multitude of other guest appearances.

Thankfully, with my involvement in Toastmasters within the past year, my fear of public speaking has nearly dissipated. Recently I’ve stood and introduced myself to networking groups, given an impromptu speech, and volunteered to lead a Bible Study. Those are all activities that would not have appealed to me, or been as easy, one year ago before I started in Toastmasters.

So I’m growing and learning in all of these good areas and have to believe it will all come together when I do decide to write a book.

Have you thought of writing a book? Fiction or non-fiction? If you’ve already started, how far along with it are you?

Any thoughts you want to share about this would be welcome.

Take care,

Finding Time for Marketing

2007-09-26T03:29:00.000-07:00

And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus. Phillippians 4:19.

I met with a writing friend yesterday. We talked about how a writing career demands a certain amount of marketing be done to sustain the writing. She had heard at a writing conference that for every one hour of writing you must put in one hour of marketing.

I concurred. “But I don’t have that much time to do both!” she cried. “I barely have enough time to write an hour a day during the week.”

“What we’re doing right now can be considered marketing,” I told her. “Talking about writing over coffee while learning about people to contact or new magazines at the library or a change in editors – all of that can be considered marketing. Browsing through magazines at the doctor’s office or while standing in line at the check-out or while waiting on your child to finish his piano lesson. That can all be marketing time.”

She looked relieved. It would be hard to squeeze 5 extra hours of marketing into an already busy schedule for someone who manages 5 hours of writing per week. But if you look at it as squeezing those hours into time you already have and using it constructively, it isn’t so hard to do.

How have you worked in your marketing time to your schedule? Has it been a challenge to find time to do it? Or have you found niches of time to expand your writing horizons?

Write and let me know your newest marketing strategy. I’m always looking for ideas in this area. Take care,

Jesse Owens -- one of America's greatest athletes

2007-09-13T08:53:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, September 12, was the birthday of Jesse Owens, one of the greatest track stars ever to be born in the US. He was born in 1913, the son of sharecroppers in Oakville AL. After many years of training diligently in running and jumping, Jesse Owens, an African-American, competed in the 1936 Olympics in Berlin. There, in front of Hitler who despised African-Americans and 100,000 other Germans, Jesse Owens won four gold medals, as well as setting Olympic and world records. His record in the long jump stood for 24 years.

The story of Jesse Owens’s rise to fame is simple – it was based on plain, hard work. He didn’t have money or influence to push him to the front of the Olympic team. He just had a desire to win and listened to his coaches’ advice.

I am working on a big story for a major magazine about the friendship that developed between Jesse Owens and Luz Long, his German competitor for the broad jump in the 1936 Olympics. It should be a good article, as it represents a supreme example of sportsmanship on the part of Luz Long and a willingness to communicate with someone of a different race on the part of Mr. Owens.

There's not a lot of data on Luz Long, but it appears he may have been the first winner of the Pierre de Coubertin medal for sportsmanship. These are rarely awarded so it is a big thing. Pierre was the man who organized the Olympics in 1896.

Now that the research is nearly completion, it’s time for the writing. I like to learn things during research but the writing is what benefits the reader and pleases the editor. I’ll post when the article is published – it may be several months from now. Hopefully, readers will find it inspiring and worthwhile of publication.

I encourage everyone reading this to study more about the life of Jesse Owens. Several books have been written about him, including The Legend of Jesse Owens by Hank Nuwer and Jesse Owens : an American Life by William J. Baker.

Jesse Owens also wrote 2 books: Blackthink and I Have Changed. He talks about Luz Long in his books and equates Long’s actions to him that day as some of the best that ever happened to him.

There is a Jesse Owens Foundation that provides scholarships for students. Here’s the website:

http://www.jesse-owens.org/about1.html

You can learn more about Jesse Owens there and at your local library. Write and let me know what you think about this athlete after doing some of your own research.

Take care,

Adventures Await!

2007-09-11T03:51:00.000-07:00

It’s been a while since I’ve posted here. Explanation: at the end of July we moved a son and daughter to opposite ends of the country to begin new jobs and careers. They are doing well and learning much about their new cultures and the people who live there. We’re happy for them and pray for them daily.

Then in August we said good-bye to our youngest who headed off to college. That leaves us empty nesters. It is a funny feeling to not have to pay attention to the radio to check for fog delays or think of school supplies or back to school nights or homework or a myriad of other school-related activities.

Instead, my husband and I are getting to know each other again. We have time to take care of the lawn when it needs it, go to the library for ourselves and join mid-week Bible Studies. It is quiet around here and a lot less dishes and laundry.

We’ve heard from all three kids regularly and they are seemingly happy. It will probably be several months before they all feel comfortable where they are, especially since none of them knew anyone in their new cities.

But we’re proud of them for venturing out and being excited and courageous enough to want to see a new part of the world. That is better than staying in your hometown all of your life. We chose to come back to our hometown after living in a busy metropolitan area because of the quality of life for our kids. Schools were saner here and there was family.

But now they have no attachments and are able to make their own decisions without considering anyone else. They are free and unencumbered. Who knows how long that will last? They should enjoy it while they can.

Each day I try to send them a verse from the Bible as encouragement. Today’s from www.biblegateway.com is very appropriate:

“I lift up my eyes to the hills— where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.”- Psalm 121:1-2

I hope they will always look to God for their hope and help. There is none other that is worth relying on.

What do you put your faith in? I hope it is the same Source.

Have you been adventurous lately? If so, let me know. I’d like to hear about it.

Take care,

Trip to Hocking Hills

2007-07-17T05:10:00.000-07:00

This is a photo I took at the top of a crevass in Hocking Hills State Park in Ohio. Can you spot the 2 kids near the water?

Verse for the day:

“He who pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity and honor.” Prov 21:21

&&&&&&&&

My family loves to travel. One of our newest favorite places to visit is Hocking Hills OH. They have 8 state parks in Hocking County -- if that’s not enough trees for you, something’s wrong!

Here’s some information about the place you may find helpful, should you decide to go:

Ohio does not charge an admittance fee to any of its state parks. Nearly four million people visit the 2,000-acre Hocking Hills State Park annually.

If you’re one of them, be sure to visit Old Man’s Cave, named after a Civil War-era hermit, Richard Howe, who lived in one of the park’s caves. The cave is situated in the middle of tall trees that form a cool canopy above the heads of hikers and researchers (the park has several rare species). The scenery is gorgeous, though in the middle of a dry summer, the much-anticipated waterfalls were down to a disappointing trickle. Rock climbers and birders don’t mind the weather; both rock climbing and birding are popular events in Hocking Hills State Park.

After an afternoon of hiking, head to The Inn at Cedar Falls. Opened in 1987, The Inn at Cedar Falls consists of quality-built cabins, cottages with hot tubs, and a lodge that provides comfortable accommodations.

The cabins are positioned in the midst of trees, though all are within walking distance of the Inn’s restaurant, which offers three daily meals prepared by a sous chef. A handicap accessible cabin and cottage are available with plans to build more.

Go to these websites for more information:

Hocking Hills State Park

19852 St. Rt. 664 South
Logan, Ohio 43138
866.644.6727 for cottage, camping,
and getaway rental reservations

http://www.hockinghillspark.com/

The Inn at Cedar Falls
21190 State Route 374

Logan, Ohio (OH) | 43138
800.65.FALLS

740.385.7489

info@innatcedarfalls.com

www.innatcedarfalls.com

If you do visit these places, let me know what you think. I’m always curious to hear about other people’s travel experiences – what they like and didn’t like about a place.

Take care,

Thunderbirds Demo at Air Force Academy Graduation May 2007

2007-07-16T04:55:00.000-07:00

Part of the graduation ceremonies at the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs was a demonstration at the end by the Thunderbird Delta Formation. This is a team of amazing pilots who go around the country showing what AF pilots are capable of through performing complicated and death-defying (at least it looks that way to me!) acts with their jets and the others in the group.

The demonstration came after the cadets had received their diplomas. For approximately 20 minutes the 6 demonstration pilots, each in their own aircraft, performed curls, drops, and other maneuvers that made me glad I was not their mother! They would fly straight at each other and then veer off at the last minute. Wow! If you can ever see a demonstration by the AF Thunderbirds, do it! It’s fabulous and will make you very proud of our young people who are willing to undergo the training to do this special skill that translates over into war maneuvers.

I had the privilege of meeting the executive officer of the Thunderbirds in the Denver airport. Capt. Amy Glisson looks far too small and feminine to be in charge of this unit. But she does it and does it well. She was patient as we took this shot and very humble as people complimented her on her job.

Thanks to all of the Thunderbird pilots who staged this performance for the families and friends at the 2007 US Air Force Academy graduation. It was something we’ll never forget!

There are photos of the Thunderbirds at http://www.nellis.af.mil/photos/index.asp?galleryID=1568.

***

“For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, and you have been given fullness in Christ, who is the head over every power and authority.”- Colossians 2:9-10

Writing Advice from the Proverbs

2007-07-12T06:21:00.000-07:00

Here are some of the books my stories have been published in.

Prov 13: 10 Pride only breeds quarrels,
but wisdom is found in those who take advice.

11 Dishonest money dwindles away,
but he who gathers money little by little makes it grow.

12 Hope deferred makes the heart sick,
but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.

Writers are a special breed. It doesn’t take much to keep our hopes up that the mother lode is coming soon – that screenplay I’ve written will find a producer; the book idea falls into the right lap, the magazine article is just what the editor wanted for the next issue.

I’m a full-time freelance writer and love every minute of the process, even staying up until midnight to phone a soldier in Iraq who is 8 hours ahead to get an interview.

It was not always so.

When I was first starting out, I didn’t know the mechanics of submitting a story to a magazine. So when I saw an ad in a Sunday school take-home paper called The Lookout, asking for submissions of 200-word stories about Sunday school teachers that had made an impression on readers’ lives, I decided to send in a story about my daughter’s kindergarten teacher, Betty Nutter. Betty taught the kids scriptures from the Bible and the books of the New Testament in song. She also took them out to McDonalds for their birthdays and had them over to her home for the afternoon, then took them home.

Betty was a widow and one of the long-attending members of our church. It was so exciting when the editor of The Lookout notified me that the article would be published! They even paid me $20!

I’ve published 1,500+ articles in books, magazines and newspapers. Yet, I still remember the excitement and pride of that first tiny story.

These memories cause me to think all 3 of these verses apply to writers. Here’s how I see it:

Verse 12: We need advice at any stage of our career. I’m studying now how to write a book proposal. I’ve never written a book or submitted a book proposal, which is what a publisher wants to see to determine if the idea is one she will want to look at.

I know -- from hearing literary agents and publishers talk – that if a proposal is not done correctly, my book idea will be discarded – no matter how well I might write. Therefore, I’m reading books about how to write a book proposal and asking for advice.

Verse 13: As for gathering money “little by little”, I know what that means too! Yet, I’m not complaining. Even though my freelance checks may come in less frequently than I’d like, at night I can lay my head down and sleep well, knowing I have not created copy about anyone or anything that is less than truthful.

Verse 14: Hope deferred – I have to admit, for years I struggled to be able to get much published. At first it was just a few things a year. Now, it is a couple times each week that something I’ve written is published.

Still, I remember those first years and think how I almost gave up. Then another article would come out and I’d feel so proud. ‘Someone likes to read what I’ve written!’ I’d say to myself, over and over.

Today, I look back and think how far I’ve come. That gives me encouragement to keep pressing on. With God’s help I know I can only get better!

What are you writing today?

Take care,

Dreaming makes life exciting and challenging

2007-07-09T11:01:00.000-07:00

Here’s a pic of our family at our son’s Graduation Ball at the US Air Force Academy in May.

“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.”- Ephesians 3:20-21

This verse from the Bible sums up how my husband and I feel about our kids and their lives. First, they are so much more as young people than we could ever imagine. Sure, we’ve had times when we’ve yelled at them for something they’ve done we didn’t agree with and sometimes they yelled back (rarely).

But we have never hit them or made fun of them or called them names or demeaned them in any way. We have always tried to tell them they can do anything they want to do. Sometimes it’s hard as humans to get around restrictions, either physical (money obligations) or mental (I can’t be a writer! No one in my family has ever written anything!).

But we’ve learned the hard way that you have to believe in yourself before you can convince anyone else of your goals. If you want to be a pilot, go for it. Study hard, work hard, and then put a plan in place to get there.

If you want to be a teacher, get good grades and get your resume out there. Volunteer for local events and network.

If you want to major in international business, be prepared to meet all kinds of people and spend a semester or two overseas.

We also emphasized putting God first in every plan. It will all happen in His timing.

Dreaming makes life exciting and challenging. What is your dream in life?

Happy 4th of July

2007-07-04T05:20:00.000-07:00

“Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people he chose for his inheritance.”- Psalm 33:12

It has been a long time since I’ve posted. That is because our family has been so busy with summer activities, including two graduations, hosting a graduation party in which 120+ people attended, attending a niece’s open house in another city, and 2 reunions. Whew! We were thankful for a quiet weekend at home finally.

Today is our nation’s birthday and it is a good day to begin my posts again, I think, since our family is proud of our nation and what it stands for – freedom, opportunities to make something of yourself, and helping others. We are proud to support our military forces and pray for them regularly.

Here is a photo of our son’s commissioning as a Second Lieutenant into the Air Force this past May in Colorado Springs. His graduation from the US Air Force Academy was the next day. It was a very special time for us and the other family members who attended. We are proud of him and all of the other cadets who are now Second Lieutenants and ready to put their education into practice around the world.

This can be an example to all of us of what can happen when we let our kids dream. His ultimate goal is to be a fighter pilot. Who knows what God has planned? We're saying, Let God Guide your ways and anything can happen.

I hope you have a Happy 4^th of July and never forget those who sacrificed to make it a free one for you.

Take care,

Getting Ready to Graduate

2007-05-24T05:01:00.000-07:00

I try every day to send my kids a scripture verse. I usually pull it from www.biblegateway.com. I copy their verse for the day and paste it into the email. Then I try to give them a brief application of how that verse works in our lives. It is always a good reminder about the importance of God in our lives.

Today’s note is special because we are just about ready to see two of our three kids graduate. Our youngest daughter will graduate from high school. She has done extremely well, pushing herself to achieve great grades, while being a cheerleader and then a member of the marching band color guard. She is graceful, thoughtful of others, loves people, and a hard worker. She plans to attend college to major in business. We know she will carry her Christian principles she has been taught with her.

Our son graduates from the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs. He has been accepted into the pilot training program and will begin in 2008. He has had some challenging times in this rigorous environment, but he has made it and we are proud of him for that. He will be home with us most of the summer and we’re looking forward to seeing his feet on the table and dirty dishes in the sink. Kidding! (I have all kinds of tasks ready for him when he gets home—he just doesn’t know it yet!)

Here’s my note to them. Warning – it’s a tear jerker, at least to me:

This is one of the last days before we're all together again for 2 months! Wow! We have not had that in 4 years.

Here's today's verse:
“Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.”- Romans 12:10

We'll be honoring each other in different ways in the next few weeks, helping each other with tasks and recognizing achievements. We are SO proud of all of you. We said in Sunday School last week that our lives are so much better with all of you. We would not have wanted to go through life without you as our children.

We love you and look forward to a busy, noisy house this summer! Love, Mom

Seeking God's Face-- Part 4

2007-05-22T03:41:00.000-07:00

I hope you were able to see some real tulips this spring. They are one of my favorite flowers!

“Woe is me for I am a man of unclean lips and am living among a people of unclean lips for my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts.” Isaiah 6:5

During King Uzziah’s reign, Isaiah had used him for a spiritual measuring stick. But after Uzziah’s death, Isaiah turned to God. Only then did he become aware of sin in his life.

“Then one of the seraphim flew to me, with a burning coal in his hand which he had taken from the altar with tongs. And he touched my mouth with it and said, ‘Behold, this has touched your lips; and your iniquity is taken away and your sin is forgiven.’”

After seeing his sin, Isaiah confessed it. No sooner had he made his confession of uncleanness than there came to him cleansing at the hand of God.

It is still true today that “if we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to clean us from all unrighteousness.” I John 1:9

When we seek God’s face for a heightened sense of sin and grace, He rewards us by cleansing us and bringing us closer to Him.

That's reassuring, isn't it?

We'll wrap up this subject next time.

Have a great day!

Seeking God's Face-- Part 3

2007-05-16T03:55:00.000-07:00

Welcome!

I've been hearing that my photos are cheering people. Here's another. I hope you enjoy it!

We've been thinking about what it means to 'seek God's face.' If you've just joined this blog, you'll want to jump back a couple to read the introductory thoughts about this topic. Here's the third section:

3. We seek God’s face as an act of obedience.

“When Thou didst say, “Seek My face,” my heart said to Thee, “Thy face, O Lord, I shall seek.” Psalm 27:8.

Growing up, my mother told me to brush my teeth twice a day. If I wavered, she would say, “It’s for your own good!”

It didn’t benefit her if I brushed my teeth (except for possibly lower dental bills!). My mother wanted me to brush my teeth so I wouldn’t experience pain from tooth decay.

God wants us to seek His face so we will be pure and not experience decay – sin -- in our lives. Seeking God’s face is His idea, so we, His followers, must obey. In doing so, we will reap benefits.

Are you seeking God's face today? You will never regret doing so.

If you’ve got any thoughts on this subject, let me know. This is an important subject to me as I value my relationship with God highly and want to do everything I can to please Him. Therefore, I will continue to ‘seek His face.’

In the next section we will talk about ‘seeking God’s face for a heightened sense of sin and grace.’ Please join me to learn how seeking God’s face can bring spiritual cleansing and forgiveness into our lives.

Until next time,

Kayleen

Seeking God's Face-- Part 2

2007-05-08T03:03:00.000-07:00

2. We seek God’s face as an act of thanksgiving

“Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his face continually.” I Chronicles 16:11; Psalm 105:4.

After the Israelites safely delivered the Ark of the Covenant to the city of Jerusalem, King David wrote a psalm of thanksgiving to the Lord. He gave the words to the Levite ministers and told them to sing it at the victory celebration, which they did. Later, those words became a psalm.

Notice that those words are smack dab in the middle of that thanksgiving psalm. All around them are words of praise and adoration to God. Why did David take the focus off of the Lord at this point? A possible answer can be found in an episode from the Civil War.

In Sept. 1862, the North was taking a beating in Virginia. No one knew how to stop the defeated Union troops from retreating. Then Lincoln had an idea. Against the recommendations of his highest advisers, Lincoln commanded Gen. George McClellan to head towards the battle and lead the troops to victory.

That’s just what McClellan did. He rode into the midst of his discouraged soldiers on his great black horse and encouraged them to persevere.

That was all. He didn’t try to do their job or offer additional supplies. He simply got in their midst so they could see his face and hear his words of encouragement. Civil War historians agree that this was the turning point of the War, in favor of the North.

Every leader knows that people need to see their leader. The closer the people get to their leader, the more excitement they feel. The Yankee soldiers were inspired to persevere because they had seen their leader’s face.

David knew that, in order for his people to survive and their praise to flourish, they needed to be close to God. In the same way we need to continually look to God for strength and wisdom in the midst of our praise. When we do, we will see God’s face in our lives through blessings that could only come from the Lord.

In Part 3 we will learn how to gain our identity through seeking God's face.
Have a great day! Here's more tulips to brighten your day.

Seeking God's Face-- Part 1

2007-05-04T04:22:00.000-07:00

“I saw the Lord sitting on a throne, high and lifted up, and the train of his robe filled the temple. Isaiah 6:1

Imagine you’re at the mall with a friend and the two of you become separated. You begin walking around, trying to find her. Do you look for your friend’s elbow in order to find her? Do you look for her knuckle as a way of finding her? Do you look for the soles of her feet, shins, or ribs in order to find her?

No. What you look for is your friend’s face.

The words to a lot of choruses used during worship services in churches today often talk about “seeking God’s face.”

What does it mean, to seek God’s face? Is this merely a phrase that’s popular and used so often that it’s become glib? Or is seeking God’s face something that has the potential to deepen our walk with Christ?

The Old Testament uses the phrase “seek God’s face” in several places. A look at some of these verses will show us what God wants us to know about seeking His face.

1. We seek God’s face in order to know Him.

When God tells us to seek His face, He’s saying, “Seek my unmistakable, personal presence. Gaze at me. Behold. Know me intimately.” God wants us to seek His face so we can have closer communion with Him.

The face is what we use to recognize someone. God designed us so that, except for multiples, we all look different from each other. We each have a unique combination of eyes, nose, mouth, chin, forehead, eyebrows, and cheeks. By learning to recognize those combinations, we can pick out a friend’s face from every other in the world.

Are you seeking God's face today? Are you looking to make sure that what you're doing, thinking and feeling are from Him? Ask Him for help in this. He will come through for you.

More about Seeking God's Face in the next entry!

Have a good weekend!

Lost and Alone on Some Forgotten Highway...

2007-04-27T08:10:00.000-07:00

“For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost.”- Luke 19:10

I hate being lost. Even more, I hate being alone and lost in a car. I didn’t know this about myself until last fall as I traveled to Baltimore to attend a writer’s conference. I had to fly in, then rent a car and drive to the conference which was an hour away.

I’m married and my husband loves to drive and study maps, so normally he does all the driving and knows with an unerring sense of direction how to get to our destination.

All was fine until I got in the airport courtesy van to go to the rental car facility. It was ½ hour from the airport. The directions I had gotten from the conference told me how to get there from the airport. I asked for new directions at the rental car facility.

The road to get to the conference was a State Road with the same number as a federal highway. I didn't know this at the time.

Guess which road I took.

I was almost in another state before I realized I was going the wrong way. I didn’t know why I was going the wrong way until someone pointed out that I was on the Federal road and needed to be on the State Road. I still don’t know how that happened.

In case you don’t know it already, it’s really, really, really difficult to read a road map while you’re driving on a road you’ve never been on, driving a car you’ve never ridden in. I wouldn't advise it, especially on a 4-lane highway with lots of other cars.

So, after several tears, 3 stops to ask for directions, and a fear-inducing trip across a bridge that was as wide as Ohio, I made it to the conference. You can bet I was praying during the whole 3 hours it took me to get there. It should have been a 1-hour trip.

After I arrived, I didn’t feel much better. Why? because I knew I would have to go back the same way in just a few days! That would be worse because the directions I went would all be backwards and I would be tired after several long days at the conference. Ugh!

But God truly watched over me because at the end of the conference they asked for drivers to take editors to the airport in Baltimore. I volunteered, thinking at least I would not have to ride by myself and someone else could hold the map.

Two people needed rides. When I saw who they were, I knew God wanted to bless me. One lady I had just met at the conference and sat in on her class about developing a web presence. Peggie Bohannon has a terrific ministry through, Peggie's Place, her website. She strongly believes in God, smiling and chocolate.

The other lady, Susan King, was someone whom I had met at Mt. Hermon Christian Writer’s Conference in CA in 2004. We had hit it off then and talked much during the conference about families, old movies, etc.

Susan is an editor at The Upper Room, a devotional book that is read by millions of people around the world. She teaches at several writing conferences around the country each year about how to write devotionals. We renewed our friendship immediately at the Baltimore conference and took up from where we left off two years ago!

So, not only were my riders people I knew, but they were people I knew well and loved to be around. So, even if we did get lost, I would be with other people who could keep my spirits up.

Peggie and Susan knew each other from the conference so when we piled our gear into the car I had rented and took off, we all started talking about how we had enjoyed the conference, what we had learned, whom we had met, blah, blah.

Susan read the map while Peggie helped me navigate lanes of traffic. It was so nice to have helpers!

Those girls kept my mind so busy, I didn't have time to get nervous. Before I knew it, we were at the car rental facility and then the airport.

I said good-bye to my friends there, but it was a relief to be safely at the airport. My fear all week of having to navigate by myself back to BMI had disappeared. Thank you, God, for watching out for all of us on that ride and always.

We’re all lost from God in one way or another. But when we accept Jesus into our lives, He forms a way for us to get to God that is safe, reliable and non-threatening. He will never leave us.

He’s never failed me yet.

Take care and always remember to praise Him,

Signs of Spring

2007-04-25T03:44:00.000-07:00

Spring is my favorite time of year. The air is comfortable for walking and spending time outside. We feel a mental release from winter. Most of all, the flowers burst out of the ground. I love tulips especially. I used to work near a park that had a profusion of red, yellow, white, dark purple, orange, lavender tulips in several areas. They also had multi-colored tulips, ones with jagged edges, and those tinted two colors. Marvelous!

Every time I took a walk at lunch I would see them. They cheered me considerably during my time away from work.

Here’s a photo of some of those tulips. The gardeners there do a fantastic job. I wish I had their knowledge of gardening.

I’m still waiting to see lilac bushes burst into bloom in my neighbor’s yard. That makes a walk around our addition really a pleasure when I smell their aroma. No perfume smells half as good!

I’m growing my own tulips this year. They are right outside our front door. The yellow ones look translucent. Red are my favorites. I’ve never thought I had a green thumb but these convinced me I can grow something and not kill it. J

I’ve also heard the melodic song of a bird outside on our patio. I have no idea what it is, but it is so clear and strong. If it is a male, he would convince me to join him on his side of the fence! J

Another feast for the eyes is our cherry tree which is blooming now. The wind is tearing off some of the tiny white blossoms, but it is still a gorgeous site.

What signs of spring have you seen where you live? What’s your favorite sign of spring?

Here are a few verses from the Psalms that talk about signs of spring:

Psalm 84

1 How lovely is your dwelling place,
O LORD Almighty!

2 My soul yearns, even faints,
for the courts of the LORD;
my heart and my flesh cry out
for the living God.

3 Even the sparrow has found a home,
and the swallow a nest for herself,
where she may have her young—
a place near your altar,
O LORD Almighty, my King and my God.

4 Blessed are those who dwell in your house;
they are ever praising you.
Selah

May you find blessings in the signs of Spring around you.
Amen.

Keep Your Mouth Clean for Health's Sake

2007-04-18T03:52:00.000-07:00

“If you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved.”- Romans 10:9-10

I'm off to the dentist this a.m.
Our family has made it a practice to see our dentist twice a year for cleanings and X-rays. We also brush regularly and eat foods that are good for our teeth, such as milk and cheese. In that respect, we have maintained good dental health with a minimum of cavities or dental work. This, in turn, affects our overall body health. Studies have shown that dental health affects other parts of the body, including the heart and circulation.

It is vital to keep our mouths clean. It is just as important to keep what comes out of our mouths clean.

When we let God have control of our mouth, He not only cleans up our talk, but our lives, as well. That helps us maintain healthy lifestyles. When we let Him control our talk, we don't criticize people which extends friendships. When we let Him control our talk, we keep tabs on our temper which can help marriages and careers. When we let Him control our urge to curse, we sweeten our talk with more appropriate words that have meaning and significance to the conversation.

It may not sound possible to let God have control of our mouths, but the next time you feel like yelling at someone, ask God to let only holy words come out instead. He will be glad to do so and you'll be glad you asked Him for help. So will the person you were yelling at.

Take care.

Blessed Be Your Name

2007-04-11T12:03:00.000-07:00

I’m discouraged about a few things, but I read these verses today in Ps. 69:29 and they pepped me up:

29 I am in pain and distress;
may your salvation, O God, protect me.

30 I will praise God's name in song
and glorify him with thanksgiving.

31 This will please the LORD more than an ox,
more than a bull with its horns and hoofs.

32 The poor will see and be glad—
you who seek God, may your hearts live!

33 The LORD hears the needy
and does not despise his captive people."

Do you hear the overall theme? We are to praise God, no matter what happens to us. God will hear us and take care of us.

This reminds me of lines in the beautiful song, “Blessed Be Your Name” by Matt Redman:

“Blessed Be Your Name,

On the road marked with suffering,

when there’s pain in the offering,

Blessed Be Your Name.”

These words always make me cry because I know what it is like to not understand why something bad happens for no apparent reason. Yet, we are told to offer thanks to God. That’s hard to do – sometimes downright impossible!

Go to Matt’s website and read about the origins of this song (www.mattredman.com). Better yet, get a copy of it. The complete lyrics are available at http://www.christianlyricsonline.com/artists/tree63/blessed-be-your-name.html.

When my dad died unexpectedly a couple of years ago, that seemed cruel and just ridiculous. He was a loving father, husband, and grandfather. Yet, I tried to obey the verses in this psalm. I remember going to church after his funeral and trying to sing, as much as I could through my grief. I know God saw my hurt and didn’t mind that no words actually came out of my mouth.

Recently a woman my age at my church lost her husband to a brain aneurism. They have four boys. I can’t help but ask, Why would God allow a man with four sons to be taken away from his children and wife?

It doesn’t make any sense.

Several years ago, a good friend lost her husband. They had several daughters at home. I know how much my friend struggled over the years. Why would God have those girls grow up without a dad and have my friend endure years of loneliness and worry about finances on a single income?

That didn’t make sense either, but one thing I do know -- a life without God makes even less sense. There is no purpose to life without God.

Even when the questions come at you like darts and you can’t avoid them, that is still a safer place to be than not having anyone to ask the questions to at all.

God is always there. We may never know the answers to life’s hard questions this side of heaven, but when we get there after living a life for God, we’ll either find out the answers then or, ideally, they won’t matter. At all.

Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.

God is the author of our Faith

2007-04-03T03:31:00.000-07:00

I've been on vacation. I'm back to reading the Bible online at www.Biblegateway.com. Here's the verse of the day, which I always send to my kids by email:

“Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”- Hebrews 12:2

This is a beautiful verse. I never thought of God as an author. It says He created my faith. He even perfected my faith! Does that mean I have a perfect faith? It doesn't seem like it at times. I tend to doubt why painful things happen.

But with faith this verse says I can be like Jesus and endure whatever problems I have, knowing it will someday all be explained with joy at the throne of God.

That makes it all worth it, doesn't it? Life just doesn't make sense without God. What questions do you have about your faith? Take them to Jesus in prayer. He'll be happy to show you the way to God.

Take care,
Kayleen

Drinking Spiritual Milk

2007-03-20T16:00:00.000-07:00

“Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, now that you have tasted that the Lord is good.”- 1 Peter 2:2-3

The only way a baby grows is to drink milk and later eat food. But if a baby didn’t like the milk offered to him, he wouldn't want to drink it.

So it’s wonderful when we realize God is good. It makes us want more of Him and to be more like Him. We can do that by drinking pure spiritual milk.

That means filling our minds with loving thoughts of others, thinking of ways we can please God by helping them and studying God's word, the Bible, to understand God better.

I'm working my way through the book of I Samuel in the Bible's Old Testament. It's easy to read on www.biblegateway.com.

I might even drink some milk while I read. All that talk of drinking made me thirsty.

Take care,

Kayleen

Have a good day!

Everlasting Spring

2007-03-19T05:02:00.000-07:00

“You will go forth and skip about like calves from the stall.” Malachi 4:2

The coming of spring causes everyone to get excited, but none more than farmers. When my husband was a farmer, he couldn’t wait for spring’s first signs around our farm--softened ground, small tufts of green grass in the pastures, and most welcome of all, a warm, gentle breeze.

Our dairy cows appeared just as anxious for spring. Standing at the edge of the dry cement lot, they lifted their noses to smell the sweet clover in the fields. When we removed the barbed-wire fence surrounding the lot, their clumsy bodies bumped each other in an intense desire to escape.

Then, they were off! The scene reminded me of a Boston marathon for cows. Old and young alike leaped into the air in their eagerness to be free.

Malachi prophesied that on the day of the Lord’s coming those who feared Him would skip about jubilantly. I can’t wait to kick up my feet in welcome of the end of life’s long struggle. It gives me courage to press on.

God, help me remember through life’s struggles that it isn’t long until You’ll come for me and I’ll be carefree and happy.

Will you be happy when the Lord returns again?

Take care,
Kayleen Reusser

Peter Knew How to Sling Words Together

2007-03-15T13:54:00.000-07:00

“Then know this, you and all the people of Israel: It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed. Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.”- Acts 4:10,12

Peter really knew how to sling words together, didn't he? That direct approach might not work for all of us, but we know God was with him. We're studying evangelism styles in our Bible Study. I ranked highest in Serving. Lowest in Direct Approach.

I hope you can serve someone today or approach them as Peter did and show them Jesus either way.

Take care,

Kayleen

Mercy for a Murderer

2007-02-24T04:12:00.001-08:00

“For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”- Jeremiah 29:11-13

Here are some of my favorite verses in the Bible. I didn’t know them well until I interviewed a lady for a story in Today’s Christian Woman and she used them. The verses seemed to apply to her situation and I’ve always thought of her when other people quote them.

Her name is Maggie Troyer. You can read her story. It is a powerful example of how God can take someone who has been a murderer, prostitute, drug user, alcoholic, neglectful mother, and turn them into something beautiful.

Maggie today struggles with cancer. She is still living for her Lord and will never turn her back on Him. Her husband supports her in her belief and together they cling to promises like this one. I encourage you to read this story and see how someone found peace with God when there seemed to be no hope. You can contact her at Setonefree@aol.com.

I don’t say this often because it sounds boastful, but I’m proud of this story because it points readers to God. Praise Him.

Take care,
Kayleen

A Psalm to Wake Up to Each Morning

2007-02-21T08:50:00.000-08:00

The LORD is my strength and my shield;
my heart trusts in him, and I am helped.
My heart leaps for joy
and I will give thanks to him in song. (Ps 28:7)

Every morning when I wake up, I spend a few minutes in prayer going over the words to this psalm. First, I thank God for everything in my life. I’m thankful for my family and our health. I’m thankful for our house. I’m thankful for my marriage. I’m thankful for my church and extended family. I’m thankful for my work and my husband’s job.

Then I pray for situations and people who need help and God’s help and guidance.

When it comes down to it, the words to this verse form the basis for what I say:

“The LORD is my strength and my shield”

God protects me from everything. Whatever comes into my life has gone through His hands first.

“my heart trusts in him, and I am helped.”

He is the only thing I put any stock in. If it wasn’t for God, I wouldn't have any purpose in life.

“My heart leaps for joy”

Because of my belief in God and His faithfulness, I am thrilled my life counts for something.

“and I will give thanks to him in song.”

I love to sing hymns to God out of thankfulness and adoration for how He has redeemed my soul from nothing to something.

--Four brief lines of thought and it sums up exactly how I feel about God and try to live my life.

The psalms don’t always express positive thoughts. Some of the psalm writers question why God allows things to happen.

That’s part of a healthy relationship – being honest and expressing feelings. God gave us feelings for a reason.

But even when we don’t want to believe God would allow something bad to happen to us or someone we love, we have to continue to love Him. It is the only way life will ever make sense.

If He only allowed good things to happen to people who said they loved Him, then people might be tempted to say they love God, just so they wouldn't be hurt in life.

How sincere of a faith is that?

I think God allows bad things to happen to us because He wants us to see that He will never forsake us or leave us. We can see God in bad situations, if we look for him.

I’ve definitely had bad things happen in my life. My dad died unexpectedly during a surgery. My mother-in-law died following a lingering bout of cancer. We have faced unemployment and health issues in our family. But as I heard someone say 20+ years ago, I’ve decided that I’ve come too far to give up on God now.

Is there a psalm or part of a psalm that sums up your feelings about God?

Take care,

The Greatest of These is...

2007-02-14T15:13:00.000-08:00

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” (John 13:34-35)

“And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” (I Corinthians 13:13)

Today is Valentine’s Day. I almost had to spend it without my Sweetie because he had to do snow removal at work after 12 inches were dumped on our area yesterday. But he finally made it home late today, only to take a shower and head to bed.

I might not be with him physically, but I'm with him emotionally and spiritually. John has always been a hard worker and someone I could be proud of in his work ethics and relationships.

My husband has never been rude and I’ve never had occasion in 26 years of marriage to fear he would hurt me. Lots of women would think those attributes alone are enough, but wait—there’s more!

John is patient and puts up with my bad habits like not hanging up my clothes. He came from a generation where the women did the dishes, but he doesn’t complain about this task when it falls to him. Plus, he always tells me he loves me, which is really great since a lot of times I don't feel I deserve it.

So even though we’re not celebrating together in a romantic restaurant with roses and dim lights, I’m thrilled just to still be married to this guy and spending a quiet night at home. I don’t take that for granted and never will, especially since I just read that couples who have been married for decades are getting divorced now in greater numbers.

How are you celebrating Valentine’s Day? I hope it’s with someone you love and who is a blessing to you.

Take care,

Love is Like a Wind Chime

2007-02-13T06:46:00.000-08:00

1 Cor 13:1-3: "If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing."

***
Before I fall asleep on windy nights, I can hear my neighbor’s wind chimes on her front porch. They sound tinkly and gentle. I’m so glad she doesn’t have a big gong so every time the wind blew, it made a BONG! BONG! sound.

That would be so irritating!

Paul is telling his readers that talent, wisdom, even faith and sacrifice, without love are like a gong – irritating and worthless. It would be like someone sacrificing his life for his own benefit. No one would be helped. What good is that?

If we’re going to improve the world, let’s do it for love and not for ourselves. Let’s be like my neighbor’s wind chimes and do it gently, not irritating people with selfishness we try to disguise as love.

*******

We’re currently getting blasted with a terrible snowstorm which may produce 12 in. of snow.

I hope everyone reading this is safe.

Take care,
Kayleen

Love does not delight in evil

2007-02-12T17:52:00.000-08:00

“Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”- 1 Corinthians 13: 6-7

I’m focusing on the subject of love for this entry because Valentine’s Day is coming up. This verse from “the Love Chapter” of 1 Cor. 13 is huge.

“Love does not delight in evil”– that means we don’t get excited when someone we love messes up. That makes sense, but it also may mean confronting the person we love to tell them they did something wrong.

Some people call this "tough love." It’s difficult to stand up to someone you love who has taken a wrong path and try to point it out to them. They may not want to hear it or believe you would “judge” them.

Perhaps that’s why the Apostle Paul who wrote these words also put “love always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres” right afterward. He knew people who mess up need other people to hang with them through thick and thin.

Of course, this doesn’t mean staying in an abusive situation or enabling someone to become emotionally dependent on you. It may be the best thing to do for someone is leave them alone to figure out a situation.

Is there someone in your life that needs you to point out a problem he’s been ignoring? He may also need you to stick by him to try to remedy the situation. Be a Valentine and show your love by sticking by him.

It’s what Jesus would do.

Take care,

Kayleen

The Love Chapter

2007-02-11T04:00:00.000-08:00

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”- 1 Corinthians 13:4-5

The 13th chapter of 1 Corinthians is often read at weddings. It’s called “The Love Chapter” because of its focus on love. But I’m pretty sure the writer, Paul, never meant for his words to only apply to married couples. They are words that can apply to any relationship, be it in the work place, with extended family, or even strangers.

As for economy, Paul knew how to combine words to pack a punch. He doesn’t expound on them because he used simple, mostly one-syllable words so his readers would have no problem understanding his meaning.

This is a good example for a writer or anyone who wants to communicate. It reminds me of the acronym KISS: Keep It Simple Stupid.

Challenge: Think of someone in your life presently whom you have trouble dealing with. Try to show them one loving action today on your part. They may not reciprocate or even realize what you did. But you’ll know and God will know. That’s enough.

Take care and stay warm!

Kayleen

Master Mind Group watches "The Secret"

2007-02-09T13:00:00.000-08:00

The Master Mind group that two other friends and I started in 2007 is going well. Weather and jobs have not interfered too much, so we’ve been able to meet several times to help us get to know each other better and become friends.

We met each other for the first time last summer at a writer’s club and quickly hit it off at the monthly meetings. Then we decided to start this Master Mind group and I think we’ve already made strides in reaching our goals.

Since it is recommended that 4-8 people be in a Master Mind, we’ve asked other people to join the Master Mind group, but thus far, we haven't found anyone who can make it. So we’re moving on and enjoying each other’s company as we share our personal and career goals with each other.

Our writing interests vary, but our passion for success is similar. We all want to see our dreams come true. We plan to work hard and help each other by sharing advice and resources.

Recently, we met at Tammy’s office and watched “The Secret,” which Laurie had purchased and already viewed it and read the book. She believed it was worth our time together to view it. Tammy and I agreed.

You can read more about my Master Mind group in a blog which I’ve been asked to contribute to on a monthly basis by Evan Carmichael. I’ve checked out Mr. Carmichael’s website and think it looks informative and worthy of some more research.

Thanks to Evan Carmichael for asking me to join his Master Mind blogging group. My first entry there will be posted soon.

My entry will discuss “The Secret”, which is a DVD describing how a person can begin changing his or her life for the better. It features Jack Canfield (Chicken Soup fame) and others who teach about what the secret is that will help people live happier lives.

I watched Oprah’s show on February 8, 2007, as the people involved with “The Secret” talked about it. It was nice to know I had already begun using the principles from “The Secret” for years. In fact, I think most of the same principles are referred to in the Bible in Philippians 4:8: “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

Thinking good thoughts is always a good rule and has helped me stay positive in difficult situations.

You can find a copy of “The Secret” online. Watch it and read Philippians. I guarantee you’ll be a happier person if you put these principles into effect.
Take care and keep warm!

Kayleen

Are you the Vapor of 2007?

2007-01-22T17:39:00.000-08:00

Every week I attend church services at the First Church of Christ with my family. Our preacher, Larry Sprinkle, is an amazing man. He memorizes his sermons and always presents them well without notes or any aids. I don’t know how he does it.

The sermons are always filled with meaning and pertinent to our present-day lives. He ties in scripture verses to help us see how the Bible is relevant to our daily living. I often get tapes of his sermons to transcribe and read back over again.

Not long ago, he was talking about how our lives are insignificant without God. He referred to Psalm 90:10: “The length of our days is seventy years— or eighty, if we have the strength; yet their span is but trouble and sorrow, for they quickly pass, and we fly away.”

“After a person dies, the world forgets about them,” he said. “Life goes on.”

He said we are like a vapor or fog. “Think about fog. It impedes our progress for a short time, then it moves on.”

Then he said, “We’ve all heard of the Flood of 1937, the Chicago fire, and the San Francisco Earthquake. But who has ever heard of the Fog of 1996? Or the Vapor of St. Louis?

“Nobody has heard of them because they are not significant.”

Then he added, “But God gives meaning to our lives and makes our lives valuable.”

I know I could not live a day without God. He is a part of everything I do and has been a part of my life for over 35 years. I’ve had a happy, satisfying life with Him and wouldn't trade it for anything.

How about you? Is He a part of your life? If He isn’t and you’d like Him to be or you have questions about this, let me know. If I don’t know the answer to your question, I’ll find someone who does.

This is too important of a subject to not address. Don’t let your life become the Vapor of 2007.

Take care,

Kayleen

Persevering through disappointment

2007-01-20T04:29:00.000-08:00

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.” James 1:2-3

It’s hard to be joyful and thankful when things don’t work out the way we want them to. Whenever I get a rejection letter from an editor for a proposed article, I’m disappointed. “That would have moved my career ahead so much!” I lament to myself.

At those times I think of the words Christian singer Twila Paris said to me during an interview for Power for Living Magazine a few years ago. This singer/songwriter has written tunes that for over two decades have been widely recognized for their unique worshipful quality, underscoring her reputation as a modern- day psalmist.

It could be easy for someone of Twila’s stature to be sidetracked by pride, but with the Lord’s help she has kept her focus where it ought to be—on the Lord and on ministering to his people. More than two decades after her first recording her sense of mission remains strong.

“One of the most meaningful things to me—way beyond whether an album sells or whether a song goes to number one on the charts—is when people take a song that God has given me and returns it to Him in worship,” she says. “Then it’s being used for its ultimate purpose—to return worship back to the One who gave it in the first place. That’s incredible.”

Genuine, heartfelt worship is the chord that runs through all of Twila’s music. Since the beginning of her career, she has drawn strength from the poeticism of the psalms and other verses that exalt the Lord’s name. She finds instruction for worship in Romans 11:36: “For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever. Amen.” (NAS)

“For years, whenever I read that Scripture, I pictured a cycle of giving,” says Twila. “My particular gifts and everyone’s gifts are all good things that come from God. When those things are offered back to Him, I feel like our lives are properly aligned.”

From this I remember that my writing is my gift to God. As long as I keep that firmly in place, He will honor it in His time and place. When I get discouraged, I remember He is developing perseverance in me to help me get through life by depending on Him.

What encourages you to keep trying as a writer or towards any goal you’ve set for yourself?

Take care,
KR

Live for the Spirit

2007-01-16T03:26:00.000-08:00

So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature.”- Galatians 5:16

I’ve been reading a series of books which has a romance in it. The girl and guy seem to be hitting it off. But she also is interested in another guy, even though the first guy says he loves her and she thinks she loves him.

The problems begin when she starts fantasizing about Second Guy. Eventually, she is unfaithful to First Guy with Second Guy and doesn’t seem to regret it.

No doubt, she was living to gratify the desires of her sinful nature so she got what she wanted, but how can it turn out well? If this were true in real life, I wonder how much of her relationship with First Guy who loved her would be affected if he found out what she had done. I had a friend who was promiscuous and when she finally met a guy who she wanted to marry, he had a problem with her background and broke it off.

I know some people might say he didn't love her enough. Whatever it was, he had his reasons and it kept them apart because she had not been willing to keep her relationship with her future husband pure.

I’m not reading the books in the series any further to find out what happens to Girl and First Guy. I’m too disgusted to delve into her personal life any more. If she couldn’t be faithful to him now before they’re married, who’s to say she will be after they are married? I'm not even a guy, but I see the distrust that could build up in a marriage. Of course, I mean this for both sides -- men and women should be loyal and faithful to each other.

Something to think about in your own lives. Be faithful. Look and live for the Spirit. You won't regret it.

Take care.

KR

Interview with Jeremy Camp

2007-01-13T04:18:00.000-08:00

I interviewed Christian Singer, Jeremy Camp today as part of an assignment for the Ft Wayne News-Sentinel newspaper on Winter Jam 2007, coming to our area soon.

That was my first interview with Jeremy Camp. He was courteous and apologized for calling four minutes late, due to another interview just before us. I thanked him for that.

Jeremy is just one of several celebs I’ve interviewed in the past few years while writing the Ticket! column for the Ft Wayne News-Sentinel newspaper and other assignments.

Other interviews have included Steven Curtis Chapman, various band members of Audio Adrenaline, Newsboys, NewSong, The Afters, Hawk Nelson, Michael W. Smith (a backstage picture of this guy and my friend Aimee and me is posted at my website), tobyMac and Michael Tait from dc talk, Dick Smothers, and actors of traveling theater troupes coming to the area.

These are always fun, but challenging, interviews. For one thing, I have to be available for them to call me. This means looking at my schedule for a time that would work (a challenge when working full-time!), staying by the phone, possibly for a good part of a day, waiting for a call.

Sometimes there’s a problem with the time change. I always emphasize to whomever I make the interview appointment with what time it is where I live and ask what time it is where they live. That way, hopefully, they will translate the difference to the person I’ll interview.

Then there’s the challenge of not being nervous. I admit, I still get nervous when I know I’ll be speaking to someone famous, even if they are half my age, but as soon as I pick up the phone, I’m calm and collected (at least I think I am). It’s strange.

The third thing that is a challenge is trying to think of questions that are not the same old hash for the interview subject. The answers can sound rehearsed for typical questions. I start out by asking them where they are calling from and move into the questions I’ve prepared that will make them think.

Yes, despite having done hundreds of interviews, I still research and write down my questions for each subject and fall back on them if the conversation lags. Usually I’m allotted just 15 minutes so that isn’t enough time for conversation to lag, but the questions are there, just the same.

I love to interview celebs, especially ones who are polite and considerate of my time and effort. Thanks to Jeremy for making the interview a real pleasure. I look forward to writing this article. It will be published on February 1, 2007, in Ticket! in the Ft Wayne News-Sentinel newspaper.

Check out Jeremy Camp’s website and listen to his music posted there. It’s deep stuff and very soul-full. He’s young but definitely has his head on straight. www.jeremycamp.com

Take care,

“That God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men's sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God.”- 2 Corinthians 5:19-20

Forming a MasterMind group

2007-01-12T05:36:00.000-08:00

I’m in the midst of forming a MasterMind group. This is a new venture for me. I’ve never been in a MasterMind group and had never heard of it until someone in my Toastmasters group gave a speech on Napoleon Hill’s book, Think and Grow Rich . The speaker said the book, written in the early 1900s, had helped him focus on his goals as a lawyer. These were not just career goals, but personal, spiritual, and relationship goals.

Mr. Hill mentioned the importance of meeting with people around you who are in a similar mind-set with their lives. He calls these MasterMind groups. They have certain directions they want to head in and things they want to do in their lives. Getting together with people like that on a regular basis to share dreams and work towards them together, offering encouragement and advice, should help your goals be reached, according to Mr. Hill. Plus, the group will hold us to be accountable to striving toward our goals.

So I checked the book out of the library and am currently reading it. But because that may take a while, due to writing assignments, and since it is the beginning of a new year and everyone is talking about goal-setting, I figured it would be good to get a MasterMind group going, even before I had finished reading the book.

A couple of people from a writer’s workshop I started attending last year have agreed to be in a MasterMind group with me. We’ve already begun to meet. It is a challenge finding a time to meet, but at least the mild winter weather is not a problem.

We’re meeting about once a week for a few weeks to share notes and information we’ve found about goal-setting, then we’ll settle into a monthly meeting.

I’m excited about the possibilities with this MasterMind group. Already we’ve contacted a couple of other people to join. The ideal size is 4-8 people. More than that can cause people to stagnate, I’ve read.

What about you? What plans have you set in motion to reach toward some goals in 2007? You can read Think and Grow Rich online at http://www.sacred-texts.com/nth/tgr/index.htm.

It’s never too late to start reaching for your goals. What are you waiting for?

Here’s a gracious promise from God to help us on our way:
Jeremiah 29:11: For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Take care.

A Mother's Pondering

2007-01-03T07:09:00.000-08:00

Though I may have said it before, I hope you had a great Christmas and New Year. Ours was splendid.

Now we are back to work and school and the sun is shining so it is a good day. Yesterday my son, daughter, and I took a 4-mile walk along the river in our town. It was brisk but beautiful.

I treasure such times with my family. We are all busy so when 2-3 of us are available and interested in similar pursuits, it warms my heart. I know such times won’t always be possible. I even wonder how many of my kids will be home next Christmas. Several of my friends were separated from their children this year, due to jobs and other commitments.

It says in Luke 2 in the Bible that when the shepherds arrived at the stable to worship Baby Jesus, Mary pondered those things in her heart:

Luke 2:10-20 (New International Version)
10 But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."
13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
14 "Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."
15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about."
16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

I don’t think mothers ever stop pondering things in their hearts when it comes to their families. We want them to be healthy, strong, faithful, ambitious, gentle, loyal. We always wonder if we’ve done our jobs right. Yet, in the end, it is their personal decisions that will affect their lives. All we can do is pray for them.

Before Christmas, I met one mother who was separated from her child over Christmas and surely pondered grievous thoughts about the separation, but still relied on God to see her through.

I edit a jail chaplaincy newsletter and am invited each December to tag along with the volunteer jail chaplains when they go caroling at the jail. I’ve done it several times and it is very moving to see how much our singing and distributing of cookies means to the men and women imprisoned.

One of the female volunteers told me she was not a chaplain, but her son was in that very jail and she wanted to carol there to let him know she supported him. She could not carol on his cell block, but she was OK with that. She said he had gotten his life straightened out with God just before he was sentenced (we have a terrific jail chaplaincy program. Contact me if you’d like to know more about this program).

Her son would be leaving the jail to go to serve his sentence at a major prison soon, possibly before Christmas. The rules of transporting prisoners would keep this woman and her husband from knowing where their son was being taken for a few weeks and from corresponding with him over Christmas.

That must have been such pain for this mother! I couldn't imagine going through this experience. (She didn’t share what he had been convicted of and I didn’t ask). But she shared how she relied on her faith in God to help her through. She attends church regularly and helps women who have been released from jail to get adjusted back into regular lives.

During the three hours we caroled, she went up to each window and pressed her hand up on the glass and mouthed “I love you.” (the windows were tiny so all we could see were the heads of the individuals inside). Many of the inmates placed their hands over hers on the other side. Some sang along and others shouted “Thank you” after we were done.

This woman didn’t know any of the men and women we visited, but her mother’s heart ached for them and I’m sure for their mothers as well.

Mary didn’t stop pondering about Jesus after the Wise Men left. She continued to ponder about Him and His life and death on the cross and afterward until she took her last breath. That’s a mother’s prerogative and challenge.

What relationships do you ponder about in life? I suggest strongly that you call on God to help you with the troubled relationships. He can change hearts and souls as he did this mother’s son who went caroling in the jail. I’m praying for her and will pray for you.

Take care,

Kayleen Reusser

Benefits of following God

2006-12-27T05:51:00.000-08:00

“[Of David.] Praise the LORD, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name. Praise the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits-”- Psalm 103:1-2

If I were to list the benefits I’ve noticed from being a child of God’s, I wouldn't have enough room here or on any piece of paper. He means everything to me and I couldn't live one day without him. To keep things simple, here’s a few of the benefits I know are in my life because of my personal relationship with Jesus Christ:

1. Peace of mind. When I was 13, I started asking questions about life. Why are we here? What is life about? If it was just to accumulate things, in my opinion, it wasn’t worth it.

Then, I went to church camp and someone explained that God created us to serve Him. We are made in His image and if we accept His son as our Savior and live for God on Earth, we will go to Heaven after we die and our souls will live in Paradise.

It was like a light bulb going off! I accepted Jesus Christ as my personal savior and that answered all of my questions about my purpose in life. I knew I was here to praise Him.

My purpose was to tell other people about Jesus Christ and how he died to save them from their sins. I might have a job and family, but that was my main purpose in life.

Since then, I’ve tried to live my life with that purpose in mind. I have never questioned my existence and I know each day what God wants me to do for Him. He wants me to serve Him and other people.

That is peace that I see lacking in most people who don’t know Jesus Christ as their savior. It is so sad.

2. Of course, this peace carries over into having a healthy mind and body. Because Jesus Christ has control of my life, that includes my physical body. I don’t abuse my body with drugs or alcohol. I exercise regularly and try to eat right. Hopefully, I’ve spread this knowledge to the rest of my family so they will understand the importance of caring for their bodies to do God’s work.

3. A fulfilling career. For many years, I stayed at home to care for our children. I found that very satisfying, knowing I was giving my kids the foundation of a safe, happy childhood.

Then I worked at a Christian university where it was fulfilling to help young people prepare for their careers and life’s work as Christians.

Now, I’m writing full-time and find it very exciting. I can’t wait to get up in the mornings and start something new. I dedicate my writing to God each morning before I begin writing. I ask for His blessings and words to flow through my fingers.

I know I can’t do any good writing on my own, so it is only through His blessing that I can write anything publishable. I don’t write anything that would be an offense to Him and I only try to write for publications that seem to have the same standards.

I don’t write for just Christian publications, but those that are clean and have high standards for excellence in publishing.

These are just a few of my benefits that I’ve realized are part of my relationship with Jesus Christ.

I’ll say it again. I couldn't live one day without Him.
He means everything to me.

I hope He does for you too. What benefits have you found in your relationship with Jesus Christ?

Take care,

Kayleen

Christmas can be funny!

2006-12-26T04:53:00.000-08:00

Christmas 2006 is over and I hope it was a good one for you. Our family spent the day together and had a great time.

The funniest part was when we all sat down to eat a Christmas brunch and my husband and I (Forever shutterbugs!) thought it would be fun to take a photo of our family with the decorated table, complete with red tablecloth, folded napkins, cinnamon rolls, eggs and sausage, and coffee, all served on the family china.

To get everyone in the photo we had to position the camera on a tripod. Then we figured we had to place the camera high to get in the table. So the tripod was placed on a chair, an open drawer and counter (one leg on each item).

Of course, by the time we had it all figured out, the food was cold. But John put the camera on self-timer and we got a great shot.

What we didn’t know was that it was set up to take two shots. The second shot has us all in motion, mostly reaching for food, so it is quite funny.

Before we ate, we said something we were thankful for and then we each prayed holding hands. It was a great moment.

I’m very proud of my husband and kids and think they are the best. None of us are perfect, but that’s OK. We’re all learning from each other and willing to be kind to each other in the process.

Then we opened presents. I confess, every year, I want to spend so much more money on my family than we can afford. I can’t get around that, but since they’ve grown up with restraints in gift-giving, they are happy with what they get and they give considerate gifts to each other and us.

Love is more valuable than money, no doubt, and we have plenty of love in our home.

What was your favorite memory this Christmas season?

Take care,

Kayleen Reusser

Christmas Eve Service from the 19th Century

2006-12-24T17:30:00.000-08:00

Tonight, after celebrating Christmas with our extended family, my daughter and I attended a Christmas Eve service German-style in a century-old church in Berne, IN. It was in the Baumgartner Church in Swiss Heritage Village and turned out to be a very cultural experience.

We arrived early which was good, since the tiny 1860's building was nearly full. About 80 people were seated on 10 wooden pews; we were given folding chairs to set along the sides of the rows. A pot-bellied stove kept us warm durin the hour-long service. Hanging lanterns and candles in the bare windows provided light.

We had read in our local newspaper about the service which would be modeled after a typical Christmas Eve Service in the Berne area. Some of the service would be spoken in English, some in German. The German was spoken by two high school girls who read Luke 2 from the Bible-- the story of Jesus' birth. Another youth also read it in English. A local pastor gave a great message on the book of Phillipians, saying it was Paul's Christmas Carol of how God humbled himself through Jesus to come to earth to save us.

A couple of women played the pump organ and violin. A college student sang two Christmas songs a capella. The rest of us also sang a variety of Christmas carols without accompaniment.

Everyone was friendly and it was a relaxing way to bring the day before Christ's birth to a close. At the end we all lit candles and held them while singing "Silent Night."

We're glad we went.
I hope you have a great Christmas Eve. How did you celebrate this day?

Take care and Merry Christmas!

Kayleen

Shopping at Christmas—Bah, Humbug!

2006-12-13T05:01:00.000-08:00

Does anyone else hate to shop?

I know a few of us out there would rather go to the dentist for a cleaning than walk through a mall. (I specified a cleaning since even I am not crazy enough to prefer getting a tooth filled over walking through a department store!).

The Christmas decorations inside a mall all look so fake to me. They’re supposed to look pretty and enticing, but I prefer being outside, seeing God’s natural beauty on the trees. Even people’s efforts at fixing up their homes for the holidays with lights and corny yard decorations appeal to me more than glittery items inside a mall.

The problem is, I know the mall decorations are put there to encourage me to spend money and I don’t like being manipulated.

A lot of people like to gather in stores and malls to look for sales and to find the perfect gifts for their friends and loved ones. If they enjoy shopping at Christmas, that’s great. I just wish there was an alternative for people like me who avoid malls like the flu (more pertinent this year than the plague).

Luck was with me last year when an acquaintance sold restaurant and department store gift cards for her school’s music program. A percentage of the sales went to the school. The store must have made up the difference because I paid for a $20 gift card and got a $20 gift card.

I stuck 5 in each of my kids’ stockings. Voila! My job was done. No wrapping! No shopping! No searching for a parking spot in a messy lot! No needing to find a place to hide the gifts since they fit in my sock drawer!

The kids loved them and I was thrilled at this method of escape for another year.

No such luck this year. The school is not selling the cards. That means with only 12 days left to shop, I’d better be hustling to buy something for somebody.

My attitude may sound sour, but I promise if we meet, you won’t see my true feelings showing. Instead, a smile will be on my face because I’m doing my best to pretend the mall is just the spot I want to be in at that moment in time.

In the meantime, I’ll check Ebay to see if they’re selling department store gift cards. It’s worth a try, even if I have to pay to have them overnighted.

Here’s a verse leading up to the wonderful day of Christ’s birth: “When he had called together all the people's chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Christ was to be born. "In Bethlehem in Judea," they replied, "for this is what the prophet has written: " 'But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will be the shepherd of my people Israel.”- Matthew 2:4-6

Take care.

Kayleen J. Reusser
Kjreusser@adamswells.com
www.KayleenR.com

Do you ever speak words of prophecy?

2006-12-06T06:01:00.000-08:00

Today I ran across a verse of prophesy in my Bible reading. I’m reading the book of Isaiah since it tells of Jesus Christ’s coming centuries before He came to earth. Since we’re close to Christmas, I like to hear what was told about his birth by the prophets.

In Isaiah 7:14 I read the familiar passage: “Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.”

The funny thing is, this tender verse is in the middle of a pep talk between God and Ahaz about how Ahaz should go into battle for the Lord and how he should not fear. The Prophet Isaiah is there and in the middle of the discussion he plops down this verse into the midst of their battle plan.

It seems strangely out of place to have these words of prophesy spoken when they’re talking about destruction and conquering other nations.

And yet I believe Isaiah spoke with God’s words in his mouth.

It makes me wonder—how often do we hear other people give us words of godly instruction and wisdom and we don’t recognize them for what they are because we’re in the middle of some situation that we think takes our concentration?

Even more mind-boggling: Do we ever allow God to use us to speak words of wisdom to others?

It’s something to think about as we approach the Christmas season and the day we celebrate as Christ’s birth. Throughout the stress of the next few weeks, try to allow God’s peace and assurance invade your soul so all you relay to others is His peace.

Quite a task -- but God is up to it.
Take care.

Kayleen Reusser
Kjreusser@adamswells.com
www.KayleenR.com

Mandy's birthday

2006-12-01T06:35:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was a golden day. It was my eldest daughter’s birthday and the first one we would celebrate with her since she went to college in 2000. But she was in play production for "A Christmas Carol” at Warren Pulse Opera House. They had 3 shows that day, including 2 for school classes. So she planned to leave at 7 am and return at 11:30 pm.

Since she was only ½ hour from home and I was not booked up with commitments, I ordered a birthday cake for her and took that and ice cream to the playhouse at noon to surprise Mandy and share the goodies with her and the rest of the cast. My mom went along and we had a great time. The cast is a wonderful bunch of people, including kids and adults. Mandy was so surprised and delighted to see us. She looked beautiful in her excitement.

Later, Mom and I visited Mom’s 88-year-old sister at a nearby nursing home. The cast from Mandy’s play came to carol in costume. They sang “We Wish You A Merry Christmas.” Tiny Tim even chimed in his famous line, “God Bless us, everyone.”

It was raining all day, but still one of the nicest days I can remember with lots of good will and cheer everywhere to usher in the Christmas season.

Happy Birthday, Mandy! We love you!

“[The Word Became Flesh] In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.”- John 1:1-2, 14

Kayleen Reusser
Kjreusser@adamswells.com
www.KayleenR.com

Broken Dreams

2006-11-28T04:52:00.000-08:00

Do you ever wish your dreams would come true?

I watched the season finale last night of “The Bachelor” with my daughter. Two young women were vying for the love and adoration of one man. He had to choose between them before the show ended.

When he told the one girl he loved the other girl and not her, we could see the runner-up’s composure slip a little, but she didn’t burst into tears. Instead, she told him she wanted the best for him and for him to be happy.

That would have changed my mind right then, if I were the guy, but he stuck to his guns and went with his first choice.

My thoughts today are with the girl who was turned down. She said she loved the Prince (from Italy?) and had thought he loved her. She didn’t know what had gone wrong.

It can be heartbreaking when dreams don’t come true. Lost dreams can forge great bitterness. All of us mourn shattered hopes. Regrets, emptiness.

Hagar in the Old Testament saw her cherished dreams of her son, Ishmael, becoming Abraham’s heir ruined, when Sarah conceived and bore Abraham a son. When she was cast into the wilderness by Abraham at Sarah’s bidding, Hagar must have thought herself absolutely alone with no dreams left for her life. She thought herself utterly abandoned and forgotten. She was ready to end her life. Then Hagar heard a voice.

“What ails you, Hagar?” (Genesis 21:17)

Hagar suddenly found herself questioned by One at whose hands she had expected no consideration.

It might seem mocking to ask such a question. The question might have filled Hagar, who felt greatly wronged, with rage.

But that wasn't God’s purpose in asking the question. God’s question was meant to show Hagar that He had not lost her. He knew where she was. She had wandered until she had no idea where she was. She hardly knew east from west. She did not know the way to any springs, the path back to Abraham’s tents or any road that offered the least promise of help or safety. She was hopelessly lost.

God knows our disappointments. Just as he spoke to this poor bewildered woman to indicate his watchfulness of her future, He watches over us. Hagar had suffered a stunning blow, but she was not beyond his knowledge or beyond His presence. We are just as watched and protected.

God helped Hagar out of her dilemma and He will help you out of your quandary. Don’t give up. God loves you and wants to care for you.

Take care.

Kayleen Reusser
Kjreusser@adamswells.com
www.KayleenR.com

Reflections of Thanksgiving Day

2006-11-24T06:51:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was Thanksgiving Day. It was a good day for us spent with extended family. Everyone was well (not sick) and that was helpful. Our daughter begins performances tonight for a 10-run play version of “A Christmas Carol” so it was a good day of rest for her after a rigorous week of dress rehearsals.

Our son in college was skiing in CO and didn’t call home. We hope he had a good day and good food. He probably won’t be with us at Thanksgiving for a long time since he’s in the military and will most likely be across the country or world each holiday season. At least he’s safe for now.

We had turkey for Thanksgiving. My eyes were opened last year when we visited a friend in New Mexico who lives on a ranch and she said they serve only beef for holidays. It’s neat how different people celebrate holidays.

This year each of us carried in dishes we’re known for in the family. In my case it is sweet potato casserole with brown sugar and corn flake topping. We also take 7-layer salad which is great for fiber—lettuce, peas, celery along with bacon, cheese, and dressing. There was also mashed potatoes, noodles, cranberry salad, green bean casserole, stuffing, and butterscotch and pumpkin pies.

I also found some homemade chocolates in Mom’s stash cupboard and took care of those in the afternoon after a good walk. :)

My youngest daughter says Thanksgiving is her favorite holiday. With the relaxed atmosphere surrounding it, I can see why it is perhaps more peaceful to her than Christmas, even though Christmas carries the message of the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. As long as we keep that message in mind as basic to Christmas, we’ll be OK with the stress of the holiday.

What do you take to your family get-togethers? What’s your favorite tradition with Thanksgiving?

“So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.”- Colossians 2:6-7

Take care.

Kayleen Reusser
Freelance writer
Kjreusser@adamswells.com
http://www.KayleenR.com

Speaking at the National Missionary Convention

2006-11-22T08:14:00.000-08:00

When is the last time you have stretched yourself?
Last Saturday I led a workshop at the National Missionary Convention in Indianapolis. The workshop was entitled “So You Want to be a Writer.” This was my first major speaking engagement. I was just a teensy bit nervous!

In the workshop I spoke about how beginners can get published fairly quickly by writing how-to and personal essay articles. I also spoke about how we can minister through our writing to readers, editors, and other writers.

There were more attendees than I had anticipated – around 75 people. Most received the 3-page handouts; the rest I have emailed it as an attachment.

I asked them if they would like to be added to my email mailing list that I send to friends about four times a year about my writing. I include information on learning more about the writing craft.

We also had a book giveaway at the end. I gave away a copy of Chicken Soup for the Christian Soul 2 book which has one of my stories in it ("A Purpose in Death"). Also Sally Stuart donated a copy of her 2006 Christian Writer's Market Guide.

Several people came up and asked me to autograph the Chicken Soup books. That was fun! Others had questions which was fun to address. It was a great experience!

If anyone reading this would like to be added to my list – I only send it out 4x/year and I don’t sell the names to anyone! – let me know. My next mailing – the last one of 2006 – will go out in a few weeks. Hard to believe the year is almost over!

In the meantime, I encourage you to start writing -- anything, even a Christmas letter will do when you're starting out! Visit my website to see some examples of where research for writing can take you. I’ll be updating the site soon with additional photos so refer back to it again soon.

If you have any questions about writing, please let me know. If I don’t know the answer, I’ll try to find someone who can address it.

I pray all of you will find the courage to write and feel God’s blessings on you as you do it for Him!

Don't give up!
Take care.

Kayleen Reusser
www.KayleenR.com

A Day of Qiviut, Debbie Macomber, and Hawk Nelson

2006-11-15T03:35:00.000-08:00

Some days are unbelievably good.

Yesterday was one of those. First, I got an email from the romance novelist Debbie Macomber (www.debbiemacomber.com)! I had emailed her about qiviut, the wool from musk ox that is 8x warmer than sheep’s wool. She writes about knitting all the time and I thought she’d like to know about it. I sent it on her website’s comment box and didn’t even expect an answer. At the most, a form letter.

But it came directly from her and I wrote back and then she wrote again, saying she had ordered some of the qiviut from the Musk Ox Farm in AK (www.muskoxfarm.org). She also complimented me on my website and personal ambition. Wow. She’s the one that has written 60+ books when I haven't written any. But I appreciated her opinion. I was amazed.

Then I interviewed a member of the Christian rock band Hawk Nelson (www.hawknelson.com) for a Winter Wonder Slam tour assignment and my daughter who plays their music all the time was here, so I asked if he could say hello to her.

I normally wouldn't do this but he was 1.5 hours late in calling me and had apologized so I took advantage of him and asked him to do this. She was THRILLED! They talked for a minute or so. He was very sweet. She wanted me to ask if he was married, but I didn’t.

I also heard from three editors who heard from readers who liked my stories. That was great affirmation.

I also heard from 2 editors who want to use my stories.

I was feeling so good by the time I arrived at my Toastmasters meeting last night that I volunteered to give a speech – no notes, or aids of any kind with me!

The assigned speakers didn’t show up, so since I had been preparing for my 45 minute speech to be given this Saturday in Indianapolis for the National Missionary Convention (http://www.nmc-windows.org/nmc/home_), I figured I’d just give them an abbreviated version, which I did.

The group is so supportive and they said I’m much better than I used to be. I highly recomment Toastmasters as an organization that strives to help people improve with public speaking skills. Everyone in my group is very kind and all working towards helping each other and themselves in this area.

Overall, it was a super day, even if I didn’t get a check in the mail.

Here's my blessing on all of you today:

May the LORD make you increase,
both you and your children.
May you be blessed by the LORD,
the Maker of heaven and earth.
Psalm 115:14-15

Take care.
Kayleen Reusser
Kjreusser@adamswells.com
www.KayleenR.com

A reminder six months after the Taylor University traffic accident that claimed five lives

2006-10-28T05:32:00.000-07:00

It has been 6 months since the dreadful traffic crash that claimed the lives of four Taylor University-Upland students and one staff member.

During Friday Chapel at the campus, Dr. Gregory Poland, a doctor at the Mayo Clinic and father of one of the campus' current students, spoke on this topic. It was so encouraging, I wanted to post the link here so you could access his message online.

http://www.taylor.edu/experience/chapel.shtml

In his message entitled "God is Here Today." Dr. Poland quoted from Brennan Manning’s book, Ruthless Trust, and other books and authors.

It was a stunning message and made us question the strength of our faith. Do we only trust in God when things are going good?

Dr. Poland also pointed us all towards the fact that no matter how much we doubt God’s love and faithfulness, He’s still going to be there for us.

Here was the clincher for me: He said, “If we can only be thankful for the good things in our life, then we aren’t truly thankful.”

I’ve had times when life is a struggle and I tell God, “You know, that didn’t have to happen to me. I was doing fairly well in my journey without that.”

But God knows “fairly well” isn’t good enough for us. He loves us and wants us to grow so, no matter what happens to us, we can get through it with Him.

Take a few minutes to listen to Dr. Poland. The passion is in his voice and truth in his words. You won’t be sorry.

Take care.

Kayleen Reusser
Kjreusser@adamswells.com
www.KayleenR.com

A Chocolatey Day

2006-10-19T16:51:00.000-07:00

“Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart.”- Psalm 37:4

I go to www.BibleGateway.com daily to see what their Bible verse is and I then send it to my children by email. Today’s verse, as is so often what happens, really applies to me! I had written the story below about my day today before looking up the verse. That goes to show God wants to give us good things!

Some days as a writer are better than others. Today was one of the better days. A friend of mine who is a food preparer invited me to sit in on a chocolate recipe contest judging for the magazine she cooks for. Of course, I had to think about it and look at my calendar to see if I was busy. Right!

I did make the out-of-town drive worth the cost of gas when I ran it past my editor and he OK’d me to interview my friend and the food stylist to write an article about what it’s like to do their jobs. It must be difficult but it didn’t look like it to me!

My friend created 10 chocolate recipes among the entries the editor had selected as sounding the best of all she received (over 100!). Then I, along with several other volunteer tasters, sampled each one and reported our four favorites. The top four entries among the taste-testers were voted the best recipes and their creators were awarded $100.

I knew without tasting the cheesecake with chocolate chips melted on top and chocolate crust that it would be one of my four favorites. Yum! Then there was a muffin that tasted more like a brownie. Wow! I also chose a shortbread cookie dipped in dark chocolate at one end and white chocolate at the other. They were so pretty!

My favorite was the gooey, messy, and oh-so-chocholaty cake-like mixture made in a crockpot. It was warm and had a deep rich flavor, reminding me of a fudge cake Mom used to make.

I left the taste testing after giving one of the judges my four favorites. My head felt a little woozy from all of the heavenly sugar and fat, so I came home and ate cheese to let my system know I still had some control.

Obviously, not every day is that much fun, but when those days do come along, I’m grateful!

Have a blessed day!

Kayleen Reusser

http://www.KayleenR.com

Waiting on God

2006-10-13T04:42:00.000-07:00

Sometimes it is easy to understand people once you’ve been in a circumstance like theirs. When Sarai in the Bible’s Old Testament book of Genesis couldn't conceive a child with her husband, Abram, she didn’t understand it. God had promised her and Abram that his descendents would come from Abram’s body and would cover a great land (Genesis 15:4-5; 18-21). But for many years, no son was born. Check these verses out at BibleGateway.com.

So Sarai took matters into her own hands. She wasn't getting any younger and she knew she couldn't wait much longer to carry a baby. So Sarai told Abram she would send for her maid, Hagar, and give her to Abram as his wife to bear a child. I’ll have to say—I’ve never been this desperate for anything in my life!

But Sarai wanted a son more than anything. As Abram’s wife, she had been promised a son by God, and yet for many years, she never conceived. Sarai must have thought something was wrong with her and Abram’s hearing. After all, they were getting on in years when God spoke to them—Sarai near 90 and Abram almost a century in years.

So Sarai took matters into her own hands. She figured if she gave her Egyptian maid, Hagar, to Abram, and Hagar conceived, the son would belong to Sarai and she could claim him as her own. (Genesis 16:2). This arrangement was common in that day, according to long-standing custom.

When Sarai did that, what a mess ensued! The relationship between Sarai and Abram became strained because Sarai was jealous of Hagar’s ability to conceive. Hagar lorded it over her mistress, which infuriated Sarai. To make matters worse, Abram didn’t seem like much of a leader or husband through the whole incident. He just seemed to go along with whatever Sarai told him to do. Perhaps he wanted a son as much as Sarai.

I’ve been in a similar situation like Sarai’s several times in my life. I’ve wanted to see instant action and get results in a reasonable amount of time. When I don’t see results of something I think God has promised me, I want to alter the waiting time to fit my expectations. ‘I should be at a certain weight by now.’ ‘I should have written several books by now, instead of just magazine articles.’ ‘I should have risen in my career further than I am by now.’

And sometimes I have tried to push myself to where I think I should be. Unequivocably, the result is chaos. Like Sarah’s life, mine is no better off for my manipulation. In fact, like hers, it is often in worse shape when I have tried to fix something.

My favorite verse in the Bible is Romans 8:28: “And we know that all things work together to those who love God and those who are called according to His purpose.” I learned this as a young teen at church camp at Lake James Christian Assembly and it has stuck with me ever since.

This verse means it doesn’t take our human manipulation to “fix” something we think God has forgotten or done badly. We need to pray about the matter and ask Him to give us patience and eyes to see His will in whatever situation we’re in.

Waiting is a tough situation to be in, but God is a good one to spend the time with.
Take care.

www.KayleenR.com
Kayleen Reusser

Skeptic’s Confession

2006-09-26T04:31:00.000-07:00

John 1:43-51

“...under the fig tree, I saw you.” (v 48)

Nathanael trudged along behind his friend Phillip. Philip had begged Nathanael to meet a man named Jesus whom Philip believed was the Messiah. Nathanael didn’t believe for a minute the man could be the Messiah. After all, he was from Nazareth! Nathanael wished Philip would use more logic before making decisions. His jaw tightened with irritation.

They approached a group of people standing near the side of the road. One man separated himself from the others and watched Nathanael and Philip approach. Nathanael guessed this ordinary-looking individual was Jesus. Nothing about him stood out. Nathanael shook his head. ‘How could Philip be so taken in?’ he wondered.

Then Jesus called out to Nathanael, “Behold, an Israelite in whom there is no guile!” (v 47) Nathanael’s footsteps faltered. “How do you know me?” he asked. Jesus said that before Philip had called him, He had seen Nathanael under the fig tree (v 48).

Nathanael was taken aback. Jesus’ statement confounded reason, which Nathanael lived by. Then Nathanael did something out of character. He confessed Jesus as the Messiah (v 49).

Is something in your character-- skepticism, distrust, arrogance-- keeping you from believing in Jesus? Jesus knows and understands you. Give Him your heart and He will bring meaning into your life.

PRAYER: O Creator, thank you for loving me in spite of my faults. I will trust you. Amen.

Kayleen Reusser
www.KayleenR.com

In the Midst of Fear

2006-09-15T12:21:00.000-07:00

Several years ago, while backpacking alone through Europe, my friend Sharon, an American, had to board a boat in Northern Ireland that would take her to Scotland.

Hostile glances from the other passengers came her way as she stood in line to pay her fare.

Sharon realized that, because she was a stranger and traveling by herself, the people in the war-torn country saw her as a threat. For the first time on her 21-day journey, she began to feel afraid.

An urgent plea was sent heavenward. “Lord, please take care of me in this place full of strangers. Show me You are beside me, watching over me.’

It came time to pay her fare. “Where’re you headed, Miss?” the white-haired captain asked.

“Scotland,” she replied.

“That would be the third stop for you, Miss.” Sharon nodded and moved to the side.

Once at sea, the boat’s engine made a deep chug-chugging sound that filled the air around them and carried out over the waves. Even so, the captain’s deep voice could be heard clearly above the noise: “If you’re a-wantin’ Scotland, it’s the third stop. Ya’ don’t be a-wantin’ the first or second stop, but the third stop for Scotland.”

Every few minutes, he repeated the announcement, looking around at all the passengers and smiling in a friendly manner.

After two or three similar announcements, Sharon caught on. As the only American on board, she was obviously the only one who needed a reminder. She tried to maintain an outward look of calm, even though her nerves felt frayed. Would the other passengers grow angry with the captain’ attention?

When she took a look around, the faces of the crowd surprised her. Instead of frowns, people now smiled at her, albeit indulgently. A few people chuckled aloud as they swiveled their heads between her and the captain.

Sharon relaxed, more relieved than she wanted to admit, that the earlier tension was gone, dissolved under the captain’s care.

Once the boat arrived in Scotland, Sharon gathered her belongings and stood in line to disembark. When it came time to do so, she thanked the elderly captain for his help. His ruddy face revealed gentle understanding as he wished her a safe trip.

Sharon also thanked God or His help; she would never again doubt His care for her in a tension-filled situation.

“And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him.”- 1 John 4:16

Kayleen Reusser
www.KayleenR.com

Heavenly Words

2006-08-30T03:40:00.000-07:00

Matthew 1:20
“… Do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit.” (NKJV)

The day after we were married, my husband and I were headed for O’Hare Airport when we were hit head-on by a car on the Dan Ryan Expressway. We were taken to a hospital and released three hours later with only headaches. But it was now evening, our car had been towed, and the bus lines were closed. An expensive taxi ride would eat into our savings.

A man in the waiting room offered us a ride to the airport. Tired and shook up, we knew it was risky, but we accepted his offer.

“I was in a car accident myself a few months ago,” the stranger said. He would always walk with a limp, but he was thankful to be alive. As he dropped us off at the airport terminal, he gave us $10 and said, “Buy yourselves a good breakfast.”

Even though that accident could have been a blight on our first days together, it became one of the best days of our shared lives because a stranger offered to help us and he did so magnificently with his words.

The angel was a stranger to Joseph and yet he had good news for Joseph.

Who can you help today with encouraging words and actions?

Kayleen Reusser
www.KayleenR.com

God is our refuge and strength

2006-08-29T04:30:00.000-07:00

Psalm 46: 1: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”

When my mother-in-law was in the last stages of liver cancer, she and her husband chose hospice care to ease her toward the end of life. That gave her eight children and their spouses opportunities to nurse her at home.

Dozens of people helped us survive those three months. Hospice employees and volunteers taught nursing skills. Neighbors shoveled the driveway so her doctor could come for treatments. Church friends brought meals and cards arrived. Friends from several states phoned in concern.

Danish hymnwriter, Nikolai Frederik Grundtvig, wrote in an 1855 sermon, “We will not be fearful or despondent in the great transition period from darkness to light, from death to life... for... God’s children... shall not fear evil as they walk through the valley of the shadow of death.”

God, thank you for the help we receive from Christian brothers and sisters. Show us how to help others in their need.

The End

Kayleen Reusser
www.KayleenR.com

A Tribute to My Dad

2006-08-25T08:09:00.000-07:00

One year ago today my dad died from complications due to surgery to fix an aortic aneurysm. It was unexpected and hard to hear that his various systems were shutting down.

But in the end, we knew it was best for him to be gone and not trying to live with limited capacity. The doctor had said he would be paralyzed from the waist down. That would have been a hard thing for my dad who was always active, either farming, building things in his shop, taking care of dogs, or playing with grandkids.

He loved Mom and they had just celebrated 47 years together a few days before.

We will spend time today as a family remembering Dad. I think he would be proud to see where we all are today. One grandchild graduated from college this year and he would have been thrilled with that since he didn’t go to college.

But even with his lack of education, Dad worked hard and provided for his family in a great way. We never did without, but we didn’t grow up spoiled either. We went to church and Dad went when he wasn't gone on the railroad. He was happiest with his family and people. Dad had a lot of friends, including some young guys who he was like a mentor with.

He also believed in giving people a second chance. If a guy came to Dad who had served time in jail, Dad would give him a job. I was always amazed that he would allow this person to work in his shop when he was gone. As far as I know, nothing was ever stolen.

I think this is why I have stayed in the position as editor of the Allen Co Jail Chaplaincy newsletter since 2000. I figure if Dad could see the worth in a person who had made a mistake, I wanted to be a part of that too. In each issue we do an interview with an inmate who has been brought to Christ through the jail chaplaincy. I always hope that when they get out, someone will give them a chance to work like my dad did with the other guys.

Another way Dad has influenced me through my writing was during this past year when I wrote a play as part of a playwriting group. I introduced a Grandpa and young man in it that, I didn’t realize until after the play was written, reflects what I saw in the relationship between my dad and my son. They were close and Dad always had time to talk to my son.

The play’s cold reading will be in a few weeks and I’m wishing Dad was here to see it. I know he would get a kick out of seeing something I’ve written – he always made a fuss about anything I had published. That meant a lot.

So even though Dad won’t be there, I’ll be thinking of him and thanking him for such a great life and example to us. We loved him and can’t wait to see him again someday in Heaven.

Kayleen Reusser
Freelance writer
http://www.KayleenR.com

Watching our Words

2006-08-23T04:59:00.001-07:00

Ps 15:3 “He does not evil to his neighbor...”

Our Ladies Bible Study had concluded and Helen slipped into the ladies’ room. As we gathered our purses and Bibles, Alexa asked, “Has anyone seen Tom Mitchell’s house recently?”

Several of us who knew the man with a slovenly yard shook our heads. Alexa continued, “He’s brought in more old cars, probably to salvage parts from. I swear that man has more trash at his place than a junkyard!”

We all laughed and turned to leave--then froze at the look on Helen’s face. She stood outside the bathroom, staring at us. Her face was white and her eyes wide with disbelief. Without a word, Helen snatched up her Bible and purse and hurried out of the church building.

Helen’s appearance and unexplained departure concerned me and I hurried after her. “Helen, wait!” Her keys were in the ignition by the time I caught up with her. “What’s wrong?”

“I overheard your remarks,” she burst out. “Everyone thinks Tom Mitchell is trash, but he is my father and it hurt me to hear all of you talking about him like that!” Tears spilling down her cheeks, Helen drove away.

I still remember the incident though it happened years ago. But I can’t remember what our lesson was about that day– could it have been love?

God, help me to watch every word that comes out of my mouth, especially judgments made in jest. It is evil and most definitely hurts. Help me to be an instrument of your peace.

Kayleen Reusser
Kjreusser@adamswells.com
www.KayleenR.com

We Preach Christ Crucified

2006-08-21T18:06:00.000-07:00

1 Corinthians 1:18-24

“We preach Christ crucified…” verse 23

As a writer, I admire the Apostle Paul. He knew how to sling words together to create an explosion.

When he referred to Jesus as the “crucified Christ”, he coupled words that would have really angered his listeners. Jews could see Roman crosses erected in Palestine and recalled the curse instituted by God upon anyone hanged on a tree (Deuteronomy 21:23).

The Greeks and Romans reasoned that God’s Chosen One would never be treated as a rebellious slave on anything so utterly offensive and undignified as a cross!

Paul knew that Christ had suffered a particularly cruel and shameful death. He knew it was considered foolishness to his readers to speak of a “crucified Christ”.

Yet, under the inspiration and courage of the Holy Spirit, Paul used the two words that best conveyed his meaning.

Throughout the centuries, the cross has become a sign of salvation and victory. In a strange twist of irony, the church now sees the former symbol of humility and shame as the path to life and salvation.

To those responding to God’s call of love and obedience, the cross makes available the power of God to overcome sin. It reveals the wisdom of God in offering men the only effective scheme for their salvation.

God, thank you for giving Your Son to die on the cross so that we might have life.

Kayleen Reusser
www.KayleenR.com

A Tribute to My Parents' Marriage

2006-08-16T18:35:00.000-07:00

Today would have been my parents’ 48th wedding anniversary. Dad died last year from complications following surgery. We miss him, but we know he is better off in Heaven than in a nursing home as he most likely would have been.

Dad was a builder. On my mantle sits a wooden wishing well filled with flowers. Dad made around 60 of these and gave them away to people he liked. In the corner of the living room sits a cedar chest he also made for each of us girls. He also made me book shelves at my request.

Those items were in his spare time. He also formed a company that made utility trailers, which he ran for many years, as well as farming and working on the railroad.

Dad worked hard, and he made things to last. I’m glad one of them was his marriage. His family benefited from his commitment to his wife, family, church, and friends.

Thanks, Dad, for being a good husband to our mother for 47 years. We love you and look forward to giving you a hug and kiss again someday.

“For we know that all things work together for those that love God and are called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28

Kayleen Reusser
http://www.KayleenR.com

Stories of Hope

2006-08-14T16:54:00.000-07:00

I Timothy 1:12-17.

“Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, among whom I am foremost of all.” (vs 15)

As a writer, I love to publish stories of how God has worked in people’s lives. Donna and Thad divorced and later remarried when they allowed God to become central in their marriage.

Joe didn’t believe God loved poor kids and became a tough individual until an evangelistic crusade preacher showed him God’s care in his life.

Each of these people cried, when telling me their stories, overcome by the wrongness of their past actions.

In this passage Paul called himself “the worst of sinners”-- not once, but two times (v.15,16)

Earlier he referred to himself as a “blasphemer”, “persecutor”, and “violent aggressor.” I wonder if after writing these words Paul also cried with remorse. If so, he didn’t allow his thoughts to dwell on the past.

He stated twice that he was shown mercy by God (v 13,16), adding that he knew his life story could be used by God to win people to Him.

Donna, Thad, Joe, and Paul let their lives be used as an example to win others to Christ.

Does someone need to hear your story today?

Lord, help me to share my story of how You saved me. I will always love and trust you. Amen.

Kayleen Reusser
Freelance writer
www.KayleenR.com

Appearance Isn’t Everything

2006-08-13T20:34:00.000-07:00

Ps 48:1-8
v. 2: It is beautiful in its loftiness, the joy of the whole earth.” NIV

He was born in an agricultural community and learned the trade of tinkering from his father. John led a dissolute life until given a Bible. The tinsmith devoured the contents and began preaching, but he was arrested for preaching without a license and the tinker spent the next 12 years in jail.

John used the time to teach the Bible to fellow prisoners. Jailed a second time in 1675, John Bunyan completed a magnificent allegorical manuscript about Heaven. “The Pilgrim’s Progress” (1678) attained such enormous popularity that, together with the Bible, it was almost the sole reading matter for many centuries.

Jerusalem was not impressive in size. Mount Olives to the East was higher. Yet, God had declared this city holy. The Psalmist believed it represented the idea of God’s place above the world, where God met Man, and holiness & sinner were bridged.

Physical appearance impresses everyone, but God. He sees only what can be, with His help.

God, help us not to judge on appearance or manmade standards. You are the supreme Authority on what is good and acceptable and perfect. Help us to measure with Your ruler. Amen.

Kayleen Reusser
Freelance writer
http://www.KayleenR.com

A New Start

2006-08-10T18:06:00.000-07:00

Zechariah 8:1-6
v 3: This is what the Lord says: “I will return to Zion and dwell in Jerusalem. Then Jerusalem will be called the City of Truth…” NIV

My friend Maggie Troyer used to be a drop-out, drug-dependent and a prostitute. She knew she was living selfishly, but she didn’t want to change.

Then Maggie married Richard, also a drug-user. Maggie and Richard knew their marriage wouldn’t survive their bad habits so they began going to church and reading the Bible.

When Maggie and Richard asked Jesus Christ to be their Savior, they rejoiced! The decision gave them strength to stop taking drugs and start marital counseling. Today Maggie and Richard serve God in the Midwest.

Jerusalem, the holy city of God, had rebelled against His laws. It was considered “unclean” (Lamentations 1:8-17), a “harlot” and murderer” (Isaiah 1:21).

Yet, Zechariah prophesied that God would return to dwell there. It would become an honest place and the city would be set apart for true service to God.

Rebellion towards God doesn’t have to be permanent. Each person who turns aside from doing wrong can know His forgiveness and love and receive a new start in life.

I struggle against rebellion towards God daily – wanting to be critical, worrying, eating too much. It’s so great to know God knows about my struggles and He loves me anyway.

He loves you too – struggles and all.

You can read more about Maggie and her amazing story of deliverance at http://www.christianitytoday.com/tcw/2004/003/15.24.html.

Contact Maggie for speaking appearances at Setonefree@aol.com.

Take care.

Kayleen Reusser

http://www.KayleenR.com

Spoons vs Forks

2006-08-09T19:32:00.000-07:00

Acts 20:17-35
It is more blessed to give than to receive. (v. 35)

My seven-year-old daughter, Lindsay, was helping me set the table. “I’m glad I’m not a fork,” she suddenly announced.

‘What’s wrong with forks?” I asked.

“Forks like to stab things, trying to get everything for themselves. It’s like they say, ‘Gimme, gimme’ all the time.”

I held up a knife. “What about these?”

Lindsay shook her head. “Too bossy. Knives always want to change things to fit themselves.”

“But spoons are like your friends,” she said, cradling one in her palm. “They seem to say, ‘Here, let me help you.’”

What utensil would people use to describe you?

God, it is tempting to take when we should give. Help us to always see the blessing in giving.

The End

Kayleen Reusser
Freelance writer
http://www.KayleenR.com

A Tribute to My Husband

2006-08-08T04:15:00.000-07:00

My husband and I recently celebrated our 26th wedding anniversary. I missed posting this on the actual day (Aug 2), but I didn’t forget about the day or the man whom I married. John has been a terrific husband. He’s stuck by me through some hard times, like when I had back surgery and couldn't get up or down from a chair without pain. He’s also helped care for our three children and always worked hard to provide for us. It hasn't been easy. But we’ve always found something to laugh at and that’s probably been the glue that held us together, as well as our faith in God. He’s always been a church-going guy and that’s been a source of pride for me. He’s interested in the Bible and knowing what God wants out of Him and he strives for it daily.

To sum it up: John, you’re a peach. I wouldn't trade you for any other man in the world. I hope we have another 26 years together. Love you.

Kayleen
www.KayleenR.com

I'm Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair...

2006-08-04T17:46:00.000-07:00

Psalm 51:1-10
Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity…” v 2

I've been swimming a lot during this hot weather and realized I've forgotten to buy shampoo designed for swimmers. As a result, my hair is slightly brittle at this stage and nearing bird's nest status. At least it isn't green-- yet. :)

Whenever I spend a lot of time washing my hair as I am now, I think of the scene in the movie, “South Pacific” when Mitzi Gaynor sings, “I’m gonna wash that man right outa my hair.”

The analogy of cleaning her life of romance with soap and water is cute.

Ironically, David wasn’t kidding around at all when he used a similar concept in describing his bad behavior with Bathsheba.

After the prophet Nathan confronted David about his sinful behavior with Bathsheba, David confessed his wrongdoing and Nathan declared his forgiveness. Still, David couldn’t rest until a full and heartfelt confession was made.

He used cleaning terms to show the seriousness of how he felt about his past actions --“blot out my transgressions”, “wash me thoroughyly from my iniquity”, “cleanse me from my sin”, “purify me with hyssop.”

The latter refers to a plant used to apply the blood of a sacrifice (Exodus 12:22).

David wanted to remove every trace of blight from his life to the point of offering himself as a sacrifice.

We don’t have to use hyssop today to have our sin removed from God’s sight. Jesus became our sacrifice and hyssop branch so that any sin we confess to God is wiped clean.

David might have sung Mitzi’s song, with a twist of lyrics, “God’s gonna wash that sin right outa my life.”

God, help me to see my sin for what it is—a tragedy against You, others, and myself.

What do you think about this subject of sin and forgiveness? Do you believe we need to rid ourselves of it by bringing God into it? Why or why not?

Take care.

Kayleen
www.KayleenR.com

Travel Writing is a Vacation

2006-07-30T15:26:00.000-07:00

I’ve been on vacation for the past week, and being a travel writer, it was a working vacation since I was researching travel stories for the newspaper I write for, the Fort Wayne New-Sentinel (www.news-sentinel.com).

My husband, son, and I went to Hocking County of Ohio, southeast of Columbus. The area is called Hocking Hills because – guess what? -- it is hilly!

It was a great week for weather, fun, and finding unusual places and people. There are 8 state parks in Hocking County so we saw a lot of greenery which is always something we look for on any vacation. It is soothing to be around trees and no crowds. We recommend this area as a travel spot for a soothing vacation. Keep an eye out at www.News-sentinel.com for my story about Hocking Hills.

For more about my interest in travel writing, essays and profiles, go to my website at www.KayleenR.com. I’ll be updating the site with pics from our trip in the next few weeks.

** Note for Writers: An article I wrote about how to get started in travel writing is posted at http://www.freelancewriting.com/content/detail-writing_world_newsletter_(may_2006)-2008-157.html.

Moira Allen is the editor of Writing-world.com, an ezine for writers. This is an excellent site for writers. It’s a part of my regular perusing of the Web.

I love travel writing and have written articles about places in Alaska, Florida, Montana, Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio. My dream is to someday pursue travel writing full-time, including overseas -- hopefully before retirement!

As a travel writer, I’m always interested in hearing about great spots to visit and write about. If you’ve gone to a great place that you’d recommend, write and tell me about it. It just might be profiled in an upcoming News-Sentinel Travel story, especially if it is in the Midwest.

Happy travels!

Kayleen Reusser
Kjreusser@adamswells.com
www.KayleenR.com

Cowboy Camp

2006-07-20T10:41:00.000-07:00

This weekend my friend, Bonnie Long, is helping to host a “Cowboy Camp”
at the ranch where she works and lives, The Bell Ranch, in northeastern NM.

I met Bonnie at the 2004 Mt. Hermon Christian Writer’s Conference in CA.
She has a passion for ministering to people, particularly a children’s home in
Kenya. Bonnie has been to the home several times and taken people from her
church to help add on to the home and establish a well.

She and her husband, Keith, plan to go back to Kenya this fall to help
the home establish a garden area where the large family of mostly AIDS orphans,
who have been brought together by a widow and her son to take care of, can grow
their own food.

But this weekend, Bonnie is working with other ranchers from her church
to host a revival at their ranch. They call it a “Cowboy Camp.” There will be
preachers and lots of singing and much of the food is cooked and served by Bonnie
and her friends. They also foot the bill for the food. People can camp on the
ranch and the services will take place under a big tent.

I wish I was there. It sounds like so much fun to have people excited
about being together to learn more about God. I admire Bonnie and her friends,
who are attempting to bring people together and present the Word of God to them
in this simple, but effective, manner. The group may number 50, but I’m not sure
about that.

My husband, son, and I visited Bonnie & Keith last year and met several
people from her church. They were friendly and very interested in studying the
Bible and talking about God. My prayers are with them this weekend as they
throw open their arms and welcome cowboys and their families to the 2006 Cowboy
Camp at The Bell Ranch.

Keep 'Em Laughing

2006-07-18T05:51:00.000-07:00

I wondered if my brain had ceased to function.

My two daughters and I were playing the game “ASAP” in which cards from two groups, alphabetical and subject, are turned up simultaneously. The first person to come up with a common denominator between the groups shouts it out and wins the point.

Mandy had 10 points; Lindsay, six. I had yet to score a point.

Not wanting my girls to think I was totally inept, I gritted my teeth and resolved to win the next point.

Mandy turned up “T”. Lindsay flipped up the letter “TV show”.

“'Tell It to Your Mom!'” I shouted.

"What’s that?” Mandy asked, eyeing me suspiciously.

Shuffling the cards, I said, “It was a TV show that aired when I was your age. A boy or girl sat on one side of a screen and three women sat on the other. Neither side could see around the screen. The child asked the women questions about how they would handle certain parenting situations. The woman with the best answers, according to the child, was picked as the winner and the child went home to live with her. She also got a new washer and dryer.”

Mandy and Lindsay burst into laughter. I did, too -- loudly. I was glad the coffeehouse was nearly empty!

Nowadays, with all of the reality shows, I wonder if my girls would believe me if I told the same story.

In his book Home, Where Life Makes Up Its Mind Chuck Swindoll wrote, “Laughter is the most beautiful and beneficial therapy God ever granted humanity.”

The Bible says “A merry heart doeth good like medicine.” (Proverbs 17:22)

Mental health professionals know that people who laugh at their mistakes recover faster from illness than perfectionists. In the scenario above, I cared more about being with my daughters and having fun than winning.

For the next few weeks I’ve got all my chicks under one roof. My son came home from his school across the country and we’ve already laughed a lot, glad to be together.
We plan to do a lot more.

Take time to laugh today. You’ll feel better for it.

Take care

www.KayleenR.com

Pie Crust Promises

2006-07-15T16:23:00.000-07:00

I love the movie “Mary Poppins.” In it, two lonely children become enthralled with their new nursemaid, Mary Poppins, who we could say without a doubt, is a little different.

She brings excitement to the children who are ignored by their parents. One night, after a particularly exciting day, they implore Mary Poppins, “Promise you’ll never leave us!”

For all of her zany actions, Mary Poppins replies wisely, “That’s a pie crust promise -- easily made, easily broken.” She knew she couldn't always be there for the children and wouldn't promise them otherwise.

People crave stability. We want to be assured that someone will make everything all right in our world. Unfortunately, most of us have to deal with vows that falter : a business partner absconds with company funds; a spouse decides he/she is happier living with someone else. Even the government seems to renege on its laws.

Christians can rest assured that God’s promises won’t “fall apart.” His Word tells us He will never desert us (Hebrews 13:5). His lovingkindness is everlasting (Psalm 107:1).

Memorize Psalm 117. Then, when you’re given a "pie crust" promise, you can say with the psalmist: “Praise the Lord, all nations: Laud Him, all peoples! For his lovingkindness is great toward us. And the truth of the Lord is everlasting. Praise the Lord!”

Take care.

Kayleen
www.KayleenR.com

Waking Up with Hope

2006-07-14T17:11:00.000-07:00

Do you feel full of gratitude upon awaking in the morning or do you wonder how you will get through the day?

My friend, Shirley, didn’t like hearing the birds sing in the morning. She knew if birds were singing, she had gotten drunk during the night. Shirley was an alcoholic. When a jail chaplain introduced Shirley to Jesus Christ, she accepted Him as her Savior.

Shirley attended Bible studies and drug and alcohol classes, eventually kicking her substance-abuse habits. After her release, Shirley found a job where she has been promoted twice. In May 2001, Shirley received an award from her church for excelling in active participation.

Now, instead of hating to hear the birds sing, Shirley feels like singing with them. “I wake up to a new life in Jesus,” she says.

In Ps.57:8 the Psalmist awakens his soul and instruments, that they in turn may awaken the morning and the world may be filled with testimony.

“Awake, my soul! Awake, harp and lyre, I will awaken the dawn!” NIV

Ask God to make each day a fresh experience in trusting Him.

Take care.

Ramparts of Faith

2006-07-13T19:14:00.000-07:00

In biblical times the best cities were built on hills with thick walls around them. The walls were called ramparts. To enter the city, a marauder needed to ascend the steep hillside, then fight his way through the rampart, a formidable task.

In Ps. 48:13 the Psalmist encourages worshippers to leave the protection of the city, perhaps after a battle and walk around, meditating on God’s protection and spreading the word of His faithfulness.

“Consider well her ramparts, view her citadels, that you may tell of them to the next generation.” New International Version

My husband and I have experienced many “ramparts” of God’s love and protection during our marriage. When we didn’t have jobs at Christmas, our church gave us food, toys and a Christmas tree.

Another time friends helped us milk cows because my husband had the flu.

When my mother-in-law lay dying, people brought food, shoveled walks, sent cards, and prayed.

I have preserved these “ramparts” to our family’s faith by writing them down and telling them to our family. Hopefully, they will remind our children and future grandchildren of God’s goodness through difficult times.

What are the ramparts in your life? Does anyone know about them?

Take care.

www.KayleenR.com

Recycling makes cents

2006-07-12T18:18:00.000-07:00

Tonight at my public speaking class, I gave a talk on the importance of humor in raising a family. A few years ago, I sold a story on a similar topic to a local lifestyle magazine. A part of this story was also published in a college alumni publication.

This is called “recycling” story ideas. You have an idea about a subject, do some research on it, then find ways to use it over and over again. This is not illegal or wrong. No one says you can only use a piece you’ve written one time. A lot of writers have learned it is smarter not to sell “All Rights”. Instead, they sell only One-Time rights and continue to have control of the material for possible future sales.

One Christmas story I wrote has been published 22 times. This is perfectly legal since I have never given away All Rights to this story. I can publish it as long as I want in its original form.

So the next time you research a writing or speaking topic, think about how you might be able to recycle your material, thus saving you time and effort. Recycling makes cents!

Take care

Three Allies

2006-07-11T18:25:00.000-07:00

While recently reading the book Make Your Contacts Count by Anne Baber and Lynne Waymon (Amacom 2002 – ISBN: 0814470939), I came across a section that hit home. The authors discuss the types of contacts readers should strive to make to extend their careers and how the contacts hopefully evolve into deeper relationships. The highest relationship they refer to as “Allies.” These are, according to the authors, “people who are experts on you, your business, your career, your needs, your aspirations, and your vision. They can talk about you in detail. They know where you’ve been and where you’re headed and they want to help you get there. They are your senior advisers and you are theirs.”

There’s more about Allies in the book, but as I read this, I realized I had three “Allies” in my writing life. They are Crystal Miller (www.Crystal-Miller.com), Cathy Shouse (www.CathyShouse.com) and Jim Langham, a prolific writer for three newspapers in OH and IN. These three have been friends of mine for several years, but this spring they have been particularly helpful as I dealt with some personal issues, not all related to writing. They listened while I poured out my story. Their subsequent advice was always supportive, yet they helped me to see the other perspective.

I appreciate the time they spend on me and hope that I’ll be able to give them just as valuable counsel when they need it.

I recommend you go to their websites to see their quality of work and get to know them as talented individuals who have achieved a balance of family and ambition. I’m proud to call them my Allies.

Thanks, friends. You’re all godsends.

I hope everyone has a good day.

http://www.KayleenR.com

A Future with Hope

2006-07-10T14:31:00.000-07:00

Personal thought for today:

Recently, I walked past the former home of my friend Lisa. I say former home because Lisa died a few years ago from Hodgkin's Disease. She struggled with health problems for 20 years. In 1999 Lisa went into respiratory failure and had a tracheotomy put in. On February 13, 2002, Lisa’s body fought its last battle.

It made me sad to see her house and think of the fun times we had there chatting.
Her life might have been tragic, if Lisa hadn’t believed in a better day with the Lord she loved.

I asked Lisa once how she felt about having cancer. She replied: “Getting cancer made me think about my life. It resulted in me giving my life to Christ. This walk I am on with Him gets pretty lonely at times, but I'll never give up and He has promised us all that He will never leave or forsake us. AMEN!”

God revealed through the prophet Zechariah that great and marvelous things were ahead for His children.

v.19: “…The fasts … will become joyful and glad occasions and happy festivals…”
Zechariah 8:18-24 NIV

So we should be doubly determined to live for Him now. Life is not fair or easy, but we can trust God to carry us through to the other side.

Take care.

www.KayleenR.com

It Can Be A Challenge for Writers to Foster Friendships with other Writers

2006-07-09T03:42:00.000-07:00

Someone who read my blog asked me to mention how helpful the checks were that I mentioned a few days ago, which I found when I cleaned my office. Good news! The checks were not too old to cash and while not wanting to give the exact amount they added up to, let’s just say they allowed me to fill up my gas tank several times over!

Filing has never been a strong point of mine, but I do it because I know it is worth it. For instance, last week while chatting with another writer, I realized I had information in my files that might help him with a story idea. I went home and immediately pulled the information out that he needed, which I then emailed to him. I don’t know yet if he’ll be able to use it, but I figure I did my part in networking and establishing camaraderie between us that I hope continues.

This brings up another point I’ve found is true -- It isn’t easy to keep up with friendships as a writer. Every time I start to write an email to a friend, I think, ‘You should get back to that story that’s due tomorrow.’ So, for the most part, I limit my emails and the number of people I include in my circle of friends.

But last week I did write to another writer whose articles in Christian Communicator have intrigued me. They are well-written and observant. She wrote back and said she had been hoping to establish a friendship with another writer in her area (we live 90 miles apart). She thought I might be a possibility. We have shared information on a couple of occasions. I’m hoping, if possible, maybe we can meet yet this summer.

Is there someone you can include in your circle of friends and/or contacts? I read recently that people feel more isolated from other people than ever before. Let’s do our part to make people we meet feel glad they did so.

Take care.

Learning to let go of worry

2006-07-08T06:48:00.000-07:00

It’s a beautiful morning and I’m outside with my laptop on our patio. The sun is shining and I’ve already taken a walk around our neighborhood. I couldn't ask for a better way to start the weekend.

I woke up feeling a little down, however. Few paying writing projects are in the hopper right now.

Some big bills have come in lately and without some freelance money to look forward to, I’m wondering what will happen. At times like this, I always remember the story of Charles Dickens and how he came to write “A Christmas Carol.” Dickens had little money coming in and big bills to pay. He may have also had a sick family member to care for – I can’t remember.

It was nearing the Christmas holiday and Dickens knew he had to have money to heat his home for his family. So he supposedly sat down and penned “A Christmas Carol,” not out of a great need to spread the message of hope and love at this sacred time of year, but because of financial need.

He must have had some desire to encourage people to hope at that time of year, else he could have written something more along the lines of Frankenstein. But at least he was a practical man and did think about money too.

I also remember the words of the Apostle Paul in the Bible: “I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.” Philippians 4:12 (New International Version)

So I’m practicing contentment today. I’m also going to start writing the screenplay I’ve been researching for months. And when I’m tempted to worry, I’ll just say to myself, ‘I’m not going to think about that financial situation anymore.’

Instead I’m going to do what Paul suggests: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7.

I know this will be a challenge because I’ll want to take on that worry, but I’ll just ask God to help me with it and I know He will.

If you’ve got something pressing on you today, I encourage you to memorize these verses and use them in your own life. And ask God to help you. He will.

Take care.

2006-07-05T09:20:00.000-07:00

If you've been wondering what I found when I did clean my office after being motivated by Jack Canfield's teleconference call a week ago to get rid of clutter to free up my mind for creativity, it was checks! Four checks, to be exact!

That was a painful lesson to learn about not keeping house in a better manner. No more of that for me! I'll put 5 min. into housekeeping my office each day to keep track of essentials.

I also recommend going to Jackcanfield.com and signing up for his email newsletter. It is helpful and doesn't come too often. I've checked out Canfield's books from the library, too, since I believe he is full of good advice.

What are you doing to stretch yourself this summer? Summer can be a time to "let go" of good habits, but don't let it happen. If you've always read a devotion to get your day started, keep it up. Better yet, start a new good habit. I've resolved to read two self-improvement books/month during the summer. I can't keep it up once school starts, but now I've got an excuse to sit on the lounger and relax at night after work.

Let me know what good habit you have that helps you improve your life/career/family.
Take care.

2006-06-26T07:47:00.000-07:00

I experienced several things this weekend that were beneficial for my writing career and I'd like to share them with you. If you're not a writer, you still might find something of help here, so I encourage you to keep reading.

First, last week at Shirley Jump's (http://shirleyjump.com/dynamic/default.aspx -- she's a terrific romance writer!) writing club meeting in Ft Wayne, another writer shared that she had signed up for Jack Canfield's email newsletter called Success Strategies (http://www.jackcanfield.com/). This is one of the men who started Chicken Soup for the Soul products. I went to the site and read in the newsletter that he was offering readers the chance to listen to an upcoming motivational teleconference. I signed and up and am glad I took the time on Fri night to call in and hear what he had to say to encourage listeners to increase their self-esteem, creativity, and output.

It was an hour long and, best of all -- FREE! I encourage you to sign up for this ezine and heed the advice Mr Canfield provides free of charge. I also plan to read his book, The Principles of Success.

I like Chicken Soup books. I've bought several for friends as gifts. Chicken Soup for the Soul even published one of my stories January 2006. My as-told-to story, "A Purpose in Death" was published in Chicken Soup for the Christian Soul 2. This provided the opportunity for me to be interviewed on three different radio broadcasts. NPR even asked me to read my story on the air! (My website lists other books with my stories in them: www.KayleenR.com).

Getting back to the teleconference: I encourage you to take advantage of free opportunities to learn from the Masters. Mr Canfield has been around a long time and gives motivational speeches around the world every year. He also offers learning opps that cost $$ which he describes on his website. If you have the chance to embark on one of these adventures, write to me and let me know how it benefited you and/or what you learned. They are not all for writers, but could pertain to many types of people who want to get ahead in their lives, either career-wise or personally.

Tomorrow I'll share a financial benefit to me that came from listening to Mr Canfield. I'll also report on the cold reading I participated in on Sunday night as a playwright with a playwriting workshop I joined in January. It's my first play and having trained actors read my dialogue and comment on it felt like sending my first child to Kindergarten -- scary but exciting!
Take care.

Welcome!

2006-06-22T09:56:00.000-07:00

Welcome!

I'm glad you've stopped by. Let me introduce myself.
I'm a freelance writer who has published 1,000 stories in approximately 75 publications. Most of my articles are interviews with people because I love to talk to people and record their thoughts. As a Psychology major in college, I always wanted to know 'why' someone did something unusual. Back then, it was part of a course I had to pay for. Now I ask and get paid for it!

During my 15 years of writing, I've interviewed hundreds of people, including celebrities like Steven Curtis Chapman, Janette Oke, Gilbert Morris, Bill Myers, Jack Cavanaugh, Davis Bunn, and Marvin Hamlisch. My articles have appeared in Ft Wayne Magazine, Today's Christian Woman, Ft Wayne News-Sentinel, Decision, Business People, Seek, Purpose, Ft Wayne Living, Cowboys and Country, Grit, Country America, and dozens of other publications.

I've also been a contributor to a dozen books, including Chicken Soup for the Christian Soul 2 and God's Way at Christmas. My website (www.KayleenR.com) has more information about me.

I plan to use this Blog to talk about writing and what I'm learning and hopefully share some useful information with readers about that subject. I welcome interaction, so if you have some comments about one of my posts, please let me know.

I also plan to keep the blogs short. I will try to post regularly (several times a week), so stop by often.

If you have any questions about writing, please let me know. I'll try to answer them.
Take care.
I look forward to hearing from you!