Married to the Massey Man

Today my husband and I sat side by side, starting up his own blog.

Here's a link to my hubby's blog about his tractor adventures. He buys 'em, fixes 'em, and drives 'em.

Check out my man, 'The Massey Man'

Celebrating Evidence

“I have great news! A well-known local musician has come on board for your book tour!” I can hear her smile over the phone. Stunned, I simply say, “Wow!” We both become silent as we consider how the musician’s reputation and career dwarf my own. It changes everything. She seems to be thinking the same thing. “I guess you need to decide what the purpose of the tour is,” she says carefully, “…is it to promote your book, or is it to raise as much as possible for Gospel for Asia?”

I knew the ‘right answer’, but still had to pause. I was suddenly aware that, even though I was planning this whole thing out of obedience, I also had self promotion in mind. (Reminds me of King Saul adding his own idea to God’s plan…) I was thinking about raising funds, but also about building readership. God has something better in mind and it requires my willingness to set my own plans aside.

And I’m celebrating! That moment was full of evidence – of God’s work in my heart, of growth! For one thing, I was willing to change – and quickly! It didn’t take days or weeks (like my stubborn heart often does). Woo! I’m thankful.

I’ve prayed that I would become obedient – that when God asks me to do something, I would jump and do it right away. And I did it! “It is God working in you giving you the desire to obey, and the power to do what pleases Him.” He’s changing this heart!!

I’ve prayed for humility. That I was able to quickly shift gears and drop my plans is evidence that God has worked some humility into my heart. Thank you Lord!

I’ve prayed for invisibility (because recognition and praise have gone to my head in the past). This moment of stepping back so God can have center stage is another answer to that sincere request.

Oh yes. I love evidence of His hand on my life. How can I gauge spiritual growth? Evidence. Yes! Fruit!! Love it. I don’t care if it’s just a flower promising fruit, I’m celebrating! I can’t wait for the harvest!!

Thank you Lord, that your word is true. You are the author and finisher of my faith. It is you who began a good work in me and will bring it to completion. You are the one who gives me the desire to obey and the power to do what pleases you. Thank you for training me and loving me and showering me with amazing, incomprehensible grace. I don’t understand, but I want more! Thank you for whatever you’re doing in my heart, my life, and with this tour. I can’t wait to see the fruit you produce through it. Please open my eyes to see it! I don’t want to miss it. I can’t wait! Woo!

Announcing ... My First Book!!

I'm excited to announce the release of my first book!

Here's the back cover synopsis:

Glimpse a soul exposed, explore truth and observe heart secrets. And somewhere between cigarettes, germs and baby toes, as we examine this soul open before us, 

we see in ourselves the need for "Beauty In Darkness"

Check out these endorsements of "Beauty In Darkness":

"Intriguing. Beautiful. An invitation to journey from dark to light, condemned to free. A privilege to read."

-Pastor Colin Plett of CFC (Steinbach, MB) 

"I don't read poetry, but it pulled me in   -I couldn't put it down!" 

-Violet Moore, Author of "Whimsical Edna" 

"It made me laugh and brought tears to my eyes - I really enjoyed reading it! I'd highly recommend it - especially to moms."

-John Neufeld, Focused On Marriage Counselor and Speaker

"This collection celebrates the healing and peace that comes to the poet's soul, and it warms the heart."

-Marianne Curtis, Dawson Trail Dispatch, 

author of "Finding Gloria"

"Beauty in Darkness is a collection of free verse poetry that is very accessible to all readers, even those who seldom read poetry. The author's personal reflections on everyday experiences will resonate with those involved in feeding children, shopping in city malls, visiting hospitals and making perogies - and that's all of us."

-Doris Penner, journalist and author

I'm honored to share a book launch event with Violet Moore, author of Whimsical Edna, and Sabrina Mae, who will release her children's book.

Here's info on the book launch

October 20th 7:30pm
Jake Epp Library
255 Elmdale Drive
Steinbach, MB

Marketing in progress ... Stay tuned for contests, prizes, sales, special events ... AND a list of where you can purchase a copy too!