Wordless Wednesday: Trying To Blend In

Blog Update: Taking A Few Days Off

I'm taking a few days off. Kind of like a break. I just won't be on as much until things settle in my life. To get more into detail, a family member is having surgery. I want to be present to help them out, and not have to worry about blogging. There'll still be a post for this Wednesday, because it's an easy one to do. I also won't be posting anything on Facebook except a link to my blog post for today and Wednesday. This won't mean, however, that I'll not be writing or coming up with ideas. It's just that I won't be doing much in the time being. Once the surgery is completed, and my family member is healing well, I'll be back.

While I help my family, I'll still be working on my book. I don't want to stop writing, as I have my own deadline set for it. I find time to write 500 words each day. I usually enjoy a cup of coffee or tea while I write. A lit candle usually is by my side, as well. My ultimate plan for the book is to be finished with the rough draft before Christmas. It's a discipline that I want to keep up. I feel like I need to write this book. It's called Wandering with Grace. I already blogged about it and what it's focus is. You can read more on it here. 

The book, Wandering with Grace, is going well. I'm writing stories, the history behind my photos, and placing a gallery that would be within the middle of the book. I'm hoping to have it self-published next year. Any spare time that I have, I'm also working on my other project - which is the White Heron. I don't know if both will be finished next year, but that would be awesome if it came true. I have many ideas that can't get finished soon enough. But I tell myself, they'll get done. I just have to be consistent. My next project after the Wandering with Grace and White Heron, is another book. Imagine that! But I don't want to give out too much info on what's next on the horizon. It's just really exciting.

Thanks for being a reader of my blog. I enjoy sharing my life journey with everyone. I don't know if people like it, but I look forward to writing my excitement for things. I just don't want anyone to get tired of reading about the books I'm working on. I'm eager, and I hope people are somewhat that way, too. I have to be patient, however, and that's a tough one for me. I want to finish my books now, but it takes discipline, hard work, and a strong focus to get them all done. I honestly don't know what's down the road from here, but I'm so determined and stubborn to get my projects completed. So, yeah, there's much to do in the next months ahead. Within that time, I pray that my writing encourages, inspires, and brings a sense of love to you. Thank you so much! (Could you pray for my family member?)

Many blessings,

- Grace Thorson

Photo Quests: From The Darkness

 Photo Quests: From The Darkness

Intro: I know I've done it before, but I had the idea to do it again. To be honest,
you can't really just quit doing photos in black and white. There's always room for fun in
experimenting with different textures and objects. So, that's what I did.

Quest Ending: This won't be the last time I take photos like this. Because there's a bit
of mystery to them, and that mystery is always begging to be understood. It provokes a
need for emotion, curiosity, and deep thinking. Yes, indeed. There will be more.

Wordless Wednesday: A River View

Surviving The Gwen Fire of 2024

I woke up on July 25th getting ready to go for a fun outing with my Big Sis and Mom. It was going to be a chance to hang out with my sister who had come for a visit. We noticed that there was some smoke developing a couple of hills from us. We thought maybe it wouldn't be an issue at first. But it continued to grow, as were our fears. As we watched it all, the smoke spread out and continued on a path among the hills. There was even one across the river. Some of my family started packing important things. I stood there mesmerized by the sight, not fully realizing that it was getting worse. That it might be dangerous.

I watched in horror as the fire across the river came close to a house. I couldn't believe it. The whole thing felt unreal, like it was a movie, or a news segment. Was this really, truly happening? I stood next to my brother and took pictures of the fire. It was titled the Gwen Fire. As my family packed, I kept watch. I just couldn't imagine that the fire would be a problem for us. I couldn't see our house being destroyed. But the fire on the other side of the river (near us) built up a heavier smoke cloud. It was getting serious. I ran into my place and stuffed a backpack (that I had bought specifically for an emergency) with my phone charger, a few clothes, and important papers. Thankful for the chance.

There were so many helicopters and planes that flew past us to help with the fires. Ones that I hadn't ever seen before. It was awesome to see them work. A few of the planes kept watch, the helicopters deployed fire retardant and dropped buckets of water. Once again, everything felt strange. I had a backpack that was stuffed and ready, although I could've easily grabbed more. The police had stopped traffic from driving up the road to where the fires were at. Everyone was working together. I can't thank the people enough that served to assist us and our neighbors. They're true heroes to me, and my family.

The fire that was on our side of the hills had quickly spread. It was nearing our much-loved canyon. Thoughts went surging through my mind. I needed to pack much more. I then did everything I could to pack stuff for my family. We shoved boxes filled with whatever we could grab into our cars. It was getting late, and we needed to make a decision. We had been warned that the fire could be here within five minutes if it hit the dry weeds next to our house. That wouldn't be enough time. We knew we had to leave now.

It was all so stressful, but we got everyone loaded up. I grabbed my cat, more things, and hopped into my car. The drive was eerie. It was dark with the glow of fires behind me. The roads almost deserted. I drove into town and helped my family get adjusted into a hotel. After that, I stopped at my Grandma's. It was around midnight. I couldn't sleep that night. Thought for sure my home and everything was gone. I dreaded what tomorrow would bring.

Our house had remained untouched. The fire had come into our canyon but stopped. They had done a burn back to keep the fire from reaching our home. They also had deployed some fire retardant. One of our neighbors created a huge line in the dirt in front of our house. It spanned it lengthwise. I had spent a few days with my Grandma, because the roads were still closed. But once it was clear, I got all my things and my cat and headed out. When I got there, I took photos. I immediately unpacked all my bags and boxes. My cat was so happy to be back, and so was I. I was truly grateful. I couldn't believe it. 

Fires have come close to our house in the past, so I've experienced this type of disaster before. We've had to evacuate once a long time ago and came close again during another fire. When summer comes, this is something we have to look out for. One of the reasons why I don't look forward to summer. I wish it wouldn't get so dry, because it's a major problem for people in this area of Idaho. But I'm so glad that here we have such amazing firefighters. I know some people lost their homes during the Gwen Fire, and I'm really comforted by the fact that others have been so generous and loving to them. It's awesome that our communities came together to offer assistance in many different ways.

I want to thank our family, friends, neighbors, firefighters, and anyone else that helped. Your eagerness to assist us filled my heart with gladness. I can't thank you all enough. It was a comfort just knowing that our place was being watched, and I'm eternally grateful. Once again, thank you from my heart. I pray your lives are guarded and filled with blessings for your selfless compassion. I also want to thank God for guiding us through this event in our lives this year. We all survived the Gwen Fire of July 2024. Much love.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

An Arboretum Adventure: Part 2

Part 2 of the Arboretum Adventure is late, and I'm sorry for that. Life has been busy in a lot of ways, and I didn't get this post finished as early as I wanted to. On our last post, we had just left the arboretum. We stepped into my friend's car, and we took off from the parking lot. We drove down a well-worn, but paved road. It was quite the drive, and I had no idea where we were at. This road was an adventure itself. I loved that mystery about it. Coming across some canola fields to our side, we stopped the car. Jolene asked if I wanted to take photos of them. Yes, they were beautiful. We got out of the car, and I took a few photos of the fields. Jolene got one of me. After that, we continued our journey.

We arrived at Stratton's Cutting Garden. It's a place that you can pick your own flowers to create a bouquet. I had never heard of this hidden gem. We got out of our mode of trusted transportation and walked up to a huge garden. There were so many flowers everywhere. We weren't sure, however, if we should pick some. Either we were too early for flowers, or if too many had been picked over, since there wasn't much. We decided against it, but I got some lovely photos. We also sat down on a bench and had a deep talk about life. It was so peaceful. There's just something about nature that speaks to our souls. 

Before we sat down, we explored the garden. We chatted with the owner/gardener as she sat in the shade. Admiring the landscape, Jolene mentioned a shed that was sitting off to the side. It looked quaint as it sat there. I took a photo of it, and we walked some more among the many wonderful specimens around us. I couldn't name most of them. I knew they had names, and wished I was more experienced with their identification. Perhaps someday, I'll be a wizard of plants. I love them so much, although, I'm sure you've already noticed that. I'm surrounded by plant lovers, as well. They understand.

I stayed a little, and then said goodbye to the pleasant woman. We both got into the car and took off down the gravel road. I hadn't gotten a picture of the sign (the photo up above), so I hopped out and took one. We proceeded down the road and couldn't help noticing an amazing barn. Such a building to find in what seemed to be in the middle of nowhere. It definitely stood out. We pulled aside, and I got out with my Canon camera. Unfortunately, I didn't have my other lens with me, so I couldn't zoom in as far. I did get a decent photo of it, and I may need to be back for more. I'm hoping to find more barns.

We drove away from the barn and followed the road back to Moscow. It was a nice drive past fields and farmhouses. When we got to town, Jolene got me an iced coffee. My friend is incredibly kind. With the coffee in my hand, we headed to her place. I had never seen it, so that was very welcoming of her. I met a friend of hers, and we chatted at Jolene's place. The coffee and company were so enjoyable. Some time passed, and it was then time to leave. I said goodbye to Jolene and got into my car. Ate lunch at A&W before my drive back home - which the food was super yummy. Looking back on my visit, it was so encouraging. I felt like life seemed a bit more normal again - which made my heart soar.

I drove towards home and stopped at a pull-off on the hill that I was driving down. The view was spectacular as it usually was. I got some satisfactory photos of it and went on my way. When I got home, I rested from the adventure I had that day. Posted some photos, and just relaxed. It was a memorable trip, and I hope to have more adventures with my friend. Thank you, Jolene, for showing me around Moscow! I hope for another visit really soon. 

Hello, Reader. Be sure to check out the arboretum yourself, and the Stratton's Cutting Garden up in Moscow, Idaho. Both were fun, and I highly recommend them.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Devotional: You Have An Enemy

We all have this one thing in common. We fight the same enemy; most are unaware of it. We go through our days, completely oblivious to the hidden danger. I mean, if we can't see this enemy, then it's not a problem, right? Some might even laugh at the thought. This is no laughing matter, however. The enemy we're up against has a name. It's Satan. He's the world's worst nightmare, and he moves through all our lives, fully present. We may not be able to see him, but we can see the destruction he causes. It's everywhere.

I want you to think of the worst problems we face today. I can think of many instances where evil is constant and seeming to grow rapidly. When we hear on the news a story that is truly heartbreaking, we can see the darkness at work. It will only spread, because Satan preys on all of us. It doesn't matter if you're a Christian or not. At some point in your life, you've most likely seen what he can do. I also feel that Satan likes to prey on the innocent the most, like children and animals. He causes as much pain as possible.

Yes, he's vile. He'll go after anything or anyone to cause havoc. We, of course, are not completely powerless against our adversary. To lessen his hold on us, we can pray, spread kindness, and just make this world a somewhat habitable place for everyone. However, humans are selfish, and we give in to the temptations of Satan. The most worst thoughts imaginable become reality in this harsh environment. The one thing I don't understand is how we can blame God for any of this. Satan is to blame.

I've become more aware of the spiritual side - which is why I'm writing about this today. Life is a daily battle. My own battle is that I have horrible thoughts about myself. I can't always seem to get rid of them. One day, during these thoughts, a powerful line came into my mind, "You would be the first into battle." It gave me chills, and I knew it was the Holy Spirit. It gave me courage to face the daily battles I go through, and I hope this devo encourages you to never stop fighting our enemy. But, don't worry. In the end, we win.

Keep fighting.

"For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places." - Ephesians 6:12 NASB

Do you need prayer? Leave a comment, and I'll pray for you.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

New Book In The Works: Wandering With Grace

I'm working on a new book. I know that I mentioned another project - the White Heron. But, I feel like I should pursue this project right now. This doesn't mean I won't be working on the White Heron, I will be, just not as much. I kind of want to take my time with the White Heron. I plan on perfecting it, so while that goes slowly, I'll be on my new project. What is this new project? It's Wandering With Grace. The same title as my blog. 

The idea of Wandering With Grace will be a book with stories/reflections and some of my photography. I'm super excited about it, and I think it's going to be a good thing. It won't be a devo like my first book, Butterfly Wings (you can find this book on Amazon or at ...And Books, Too! But, it's a project that I hope to have finished soon. When? I don't know exactly, but it shouldn't take too long to write. It will, however, be next year sometime.

What to expect? The project will be focused on my journey, stories, and photos. It won't be a coffee table book, but it will most likely be paperback. A photo will be included with each chapter, too. That's what I'm thinking, anyways. My plan is to compile all of these together to make one cohesive book. My purpose will be to encourage, inspire, and bring a sense of wonder. Life is to be celebrated. Even when things are hard, there's goodness.

Those are my plans; however, I don't know what the future holds. Life has become unpredictable, I think, for everyone. The next months could be crazy on a global front. Next year might be a disaster. Fear seems to run rampant. I just know that I'm going to hold onto hope, because it's all I have. I'll continue to find joy in anything I can, and I'll try to shine a light for everyone. If I can help just one person, I'll have accomplished my goal.

For the end of this summer, to fall, and then to winter, I'll be blogging and writing. I feel the need to write, so I'm pursuing that wholeheartedly. In my heart, I long for happiness, and I want to express my love for others. I also pray that these months for everyone will be life-changing, and in a beautiful way. If you need prayer, send me an e-mail (contact form on right sidebar), or leave a comment. Thank you for stopping by today. If you want to stay updated on my writing, be sure to like my Facebook page, and follow my blog (on sidebar).

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Photo Quests: Hunting For Bugs

 Photo Quests: Hunting For Bugs

Intro: I stepped outside with my camera fully intent to take some pictures. 
What I didn't expect was to spot a robin looking for bugs. I quietly sat down
on a bench and watched the bird. It was fun following this bug hunt.

Quest Ending: The robin was done. I enjoyed watching the bird doing 
what it does naturally - to hunt bugs. I don't know where the robin is at now,
but I hope it has a great family and is still looking for those pesky little critters.

Author Interview: Janet Chester Bly

Janet Chester Bly is the author of fifteen nonfiction and fiction books. She also coauthored twenty books with author Stephen Bly. Her newest book Grace Spilling Over is a devotional. It's available on her site at blybooks.com, on Amazon, or at the bookstore ...And Books, Too! She is currently working on a story for another book.

Author Janet Chester Bly stopped by my blog to do an interview with me today. 

Welcome, Janet!

First question. What do you love most about writing?

Grace, thanks so much for inviting me to do this feature on your new blog. And congratulations on your book release of poems and devotions, Butterfly Wings.

As to the fun things about writing for me... I love receiving correspondence from fans. Also, it’s a delight to meet readers of our books in person. I got to do that recently when I was a guest author for a creative writing class at Sacajawea Middle School in Lewiston, Idaho. Some of the students as well as the teacher had read our children’s books.

I love that nothing in life is wasted for a writer. No matter what happens--good, bad, or messy--it’s potential material for a speaking or writing project. And I never get over the sense of accomplishment when a book projects finally completed. Seeing my name on the cover never gets old! Or on a royalty check!

What steps do you usually go through when it comes to writing and perfecting a story?

It's a bit different every time, depending on the project and life circumstances. However, the basic process begins with finding a topic, a theme, or any kernel of an idea. Then, I flush out some rough sentences or paragraphs as a brainstorming starter. At this point some kind of research will happen—looking for information and inspiration. This may include a road trip. In fact, travel for both my late husband and me always incited our best writing flow. I did a lot of hours of note taking while he drove umpteen miles down the highways and dirt off ramps of every western state. Perfecting first and second draft stories happened with editing, by each other, and professionals.

How did you become an author?

After my husband graduated from Fuller Theological Seminary and got called to serve as a pastor of a Presbyterian church in Woodlake, California, I got stirred up to discover what my own God-given ministry might be. That began a long journey of several years getting involved in a variety of church and community activities, as well as academic and cooking, sewing, crafting classes. While I enjoyed some of these pursuits, none seemed to zing as a prime spiritual gifting.

Then one day a friend handed me a brochure for a Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference in Santa Cruz, California. I decided to go. What an exciting experience meeting writers, editors, publishers, and agents, and attending classes on the how-to of the writing profession. I went right home and pulled out the poetry I had written over the years. Then I wrote some more, including short, inspirational sidebars. I sent them out to magazines like they explained to do at the conference. And after some months, I received some acceptances.

But it wasn’t until I got husband Stephen interested in writing, too, that our full-fledged partnership developed, for our mutual benefit. That proved to be the key. He nurtured most of the ideas and they flowed all messy on his computer. I could edit him and me. We made a dynamic team.

Over the years, we influenced and enlarged one another’s gifts. I got more creative. He handed me cleaner manuscripts. And with the continuing aid of our contacts at the writer’s conference, we produced more than short stories and articles. The first book released in 1982, Radical Discipleship with Moody Press Publishing. In time, Stephen became best known as an award-winning western novelist. As of today—his, mine, and ours--we’ve published about 120 books, fiction and nonfiction for adults, teens, and kids (8-12 years old).

You can find out more about how I found God’s will for my life, and how you can too, in my book, Managing Your Restless Search/Finding Your Place of Service in God’s Plan. Available here: https://www.blybooks.com/books/serving-god/

With your newest book, Grace Spilling Over, what motivated you to write it?

Grace Spilling Over evolved from several resources. First, a desire of mine to answer the question, “Is God really good all the time?” when faced with the tragedies and evil that invade our lives and the world. And second, I began to collect numerous stories I heard at the churches, conferences, and retreats where I spoke or attended. I put the theme and the life events together.

In what way do you hope readers will be inspired by Grace Spilling Over?

This book reveals God’s tender mercies as people struggle to trust Him with many “Why?” concerns. They wonder at God’s delays to help them. No easy answers here. No flinching from facing life’s unfairness and cruelty. Yet hope and grace shine through as we see God prepares His children for what He knows lies ahead. My goal is for the reader to experience deep and abiding comfort in the goodness of their heavenly Father. Available here: https://www.blybooks.com/genre/inspirational-family-life/

Are you currently working on a book? If so, can you share a little bit about it?

My present project is an anthology of short stories, co-authored with fourteen other published authors who belong to a private online Christian fiction writers’ group. Each of us has been challenged to create a story of about 4,000 words or less around a piece of jewelry. The story can be set in any era with a choice of gem and genre. The prologue frame story will be about a contemporary jeweler who secretly hoards precious gems over the years. He plans to create a Christmas tree wall hanging of them with enough great value to establish his reputation alongside Tiffany and Fabergé. The stories tell the history of the pieces. And the search to fill a missing space.

I’ve completed a draft of my story, “Beneath a Turquoise Sky,” which is set in 1991. In it I use a couple characters from my latest cowgirl mystery romance series, The Trails of Reba Cahill. *My jewelry piece is a gold and turquoise squash blossom necklace. The working title of this book is The Jewel Project and has a late fall release date, in time for Christmas. All proceeds will go to a chosen ministry, to be determined.

*The Trails of Reba Cahill 3-book series available here: https://www.blybooks.com/genre/contemporary-fiction/

There are many great Bible verses and quotes out there, but which of these apply to your journey in life?

My life verse is Ephesians 2:10 and has been the guiding light for discovering what God made me to be and do: “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”

Janet, have any closing thoughts, writing tips, or advice to share with us?

Whether you consider yourself a writer or not, everyone should record the highlights (and maybe lowlights) of your life, including as much history you know and remember about your family, as far back as possible. Even if it never goes further than a personal journal, those words will have value for someone.  

Randomly Fun Questions:

What are some of your favorite hobbies?

I co-lead several different exercise classes for seniors and like playing around with silk flower arrangements for bouquets and wreaths.

Do you prefer tea or coffee?

I enjoy any flavor tea, but only drink low-fat or non-dairy lattes for coffee with occasional sugar-free flavoring.

Are you an early bird or a night owl?

I get to bed about 12:00-1:00 a.m. and rise in time for morning exercise or Bible study class.

How can my readers best get in contact with you or follow you on social media?

Email: janet@blybooks.com
Website: www.BlyBooks.com
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/BlyBooks/
Facebook Personal: https://www.facebook.com/janetchesterbly/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janetchesterbly/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BlyBooks
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/janetcbly/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/269265.Janet_Chester_Bly

Thank you for doing this interview with me, Janet.

*Note* Click here to read my review of Janet's book, Grace Spilling Over.

Many blessings
- Grace Thorson

Wordless Wednesday: Softly In Pink