Photo Quests: Adding The Irises

Intro: I was outside in the warm sun taking pictures. I seem to do that a lot. So, while I was out, I scoped out the irises. I knew there were a couple blooms, so I added them to my own collection (my photos). They're always so beautiful, and I'm pleased that I preserved them.

    

    

    

     

Quest Ending: Every spring is a wonderful season when the irises bloom. They're one of those constant flowers that come back, bringing with them a sense of hope. That's kind of how I feel about the irises, and I'm so glad that I could preserve their life in my photos. 

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Author Interview: Laura L. Morgan

                                                         

Laura L. Morgan is a middle school English Language Arts teacher in Lewiston, Idaho. She has been married to her fellow adventurer, Trent, for thirty-three years, and has three daughters, three sons-in-law, and six grandchildren. She loves family adventures in God's beautiful creation: hiking, boating, hunting, camping, and fishing. Her hobbies include reading, writing, and photography. She lives on a semi-farm with many animals, rabbits being her favorite, and enjoys the time she is able to spend in the last frontier of Alaska.

Author Laura L. Morgan is on my blog today for an interview.


Welcome to my blog, Laura!

Could you tell us a little about yourself?

 I am a high school English teacher and have been in education for thirty-six years. My husband and fellow adventurer, Trent, and I have been married for thirty-seven years. We have three married daughters and nine grandchildren. We just found out another is on the way! My favorite activities are reading and writing, but I also really enjoy photography. We live on a semi-farm and rabbits are my favorite pets. Seeing whales in Alaska makes my day. Being active in ministry is something important to us. I grew up in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado and love adventures and the outdoors.

What do you enjoy most about writing?

I love the creative process and holding my very own book in my hands is an amazing experience. I also love alluding to some fun or tough events from my family’s experiences in my stories. I have had a lot of fun meeting people from all over the country through my book events.

How did you first pursue writing as a whole?

I have loved reading and writing for as long as I can remember. As a child, I wrote stories and made my own books. I journaled extensively and penned many poems as well as a few short stories. I had the idea for the plot of my first novel for many years. I started writing it four or five times, but it was never what I wanted it to be. Then, while teaching realistic fiction to my seventh graders, I wrote a scene in one semester and another the next semester. Lightbulb moment! These became two chapters. I then went back and started writing the story from the beginning. It all finally came together!

You’re the author of a series called, The Adventures of Rogan Chaffey. How did it all come together? Could you describe the writing process and story inspiration for the series?

 I realized I wanted to set my stories on an island in southeast Alaska. We had been visiting there for about fifteen years and my oldest daughter met her husband there, married, and had kids. We built a cabin next to their house and visit every summer. It is such a unique lifestyle up there and I felt it was perfect for adventure novels. My next task was to come up with the theme. I wrestled with this but settled on, “Why does God allow bad things to happen?” for the first novel. I felt it was a universal question, and it helped me work through my mother’s death after a long and painful battle with cancer. I have trouble coming up with perfect names for my characters— probably because I am a teacher and have pre-conceived ideas about names and their connected personalities.

What is your newest book #3 about in the series?

Truth at Crossbones Pass deals with how important truth is in our lives. There’s a lot of relativity out there and the implications of believing a lie are consequential. Of course, my main character, Rogan, and his friends have all kinds of Alaskan adventures along the way.

Can you share any details surrounding your next project?

Book #4 in the Adventures of Rogan Chaffey series is at the swirling-around-in-my-head-while- life-is-too-busy stage. I’ve started doing some initial research. The theme will be about God’s promises and provisions. I’m centering it around my favorite Bible verse, John 14:27 and the idea of peace. Rogan will have to wrestle with his lack of peace and his challenged trust in God.

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

Hebrews 10:35-39 is significant to me. “So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised…But we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who believe and are saved.” God is always faithful, and even when we feel like life is too hard or things aren’t working out the way they should, God is in complete control.

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

I hope writing isn’t a dying art, especially with AI now on the scene. I would encourage anyone with interest in it to be a lifelong learner, use the creative brain you were gifted with, and write! Develop that writing muscle. Not everything will be your favorite piece of work, but it will be a glittering tile in the mosaic you create.

Randomly Fun Questions:

What is your most favorite color and why?

Blue! Not sure why- maybe growing up under a Colorado Rocky Mountain blue sky.

Would you rather go to outer space or the bottom of the ocean?

The bottom of the ocean- except for the fact of being under all that water, ha ha. Under the water is very peaceful and calm, and I love the beauty of the plants and animals. Trent and I are certified scuba divers and enjoyed diving when we were younger.

If you could sit down with any author, who would it be?

That’s a tough one. I like Gary Paulsen’s style of writing. My debut into reading Christian romantic suspense was Dee Henderson with the O’Malley series. Those would probably be my top two picks.

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lauramorganauthor/  https://www.facebook.com/laural.morganauthor/ 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauralmorganauthor/ 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@laural.morganauthor3709 
Website: https://www.lauralmorganauthor.com/ 
Email: LauraLMorganAuthor@gmail.com

Thank you for stopping by, Laura! 


Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Wordless Wednesday: So Many Daisies

Devotional: Care For Your Animals

Animals are a part of our lives. Whether you have a pet, or you help rescue them, they're a constant friend. One might even walk into your life and into your home. No matter how we come across them, they require our care. Some more than others. If you have a pet in your home, you can attest to how much joy and love they bring into our hearts. I'm no different. I have a cat. His name is Kenji. He's my baby. I may spoil him a bunch, but he's well-looked after. I care for him each day. He gets his breakfast in the mornings, his Temptations treats throughout the day, and some catnip in the evenings. I always look forward to seeing him and spending time with him after work. I make sure we have lots of time together. 💓

Now, God gave us animals, and I'm sure He enjoys them, as well. How could He not? He created them, after all. For us, we were meant to have dominion over them. I'm not talking about control, power, or ruthlessness. We're supposed to watch the earth and its inhabitants - this includes all creatures. And sad to say, I don't think we've done a good job. We've messed things up. Some animals have gone extinct because of overhunting. I can list a couple that have. Not to mention, how the cruel have treated our domesticated animals. They're all meant to be protected. God gave us this duty. Remember, He made them. How could we not want to take care of His creation? We've got to do better for them - for Him.

If you have the power, you can help animals in need. There's so many ways we can get involved to make a difference. Volunteer at an animal shelter, donate money, purchase much-needed food, and volunteer to help spay/neuter cats. You can also train dogs, clean out horse stalls, and get the word out there. Don't forget to care for your own animals, too. I spend time with my cat each day, playing and giving him treats. I do it because I love spending time with him, and also because he enjoys it. He looks forward to this time together. Of course, we always have night-time cuddles, too. Contrary to what people believe, cats do like to interact. So, don't forget to spend time with them. They'll like it, and you'll treasure the memories made. Animals are a crucial part of our lives! 🐱

God loves His animals, but He gave us the job to look after them. It's our duty. It says in scripture that God knows when a sparrow falls. He knows when one of His creations dies or is hurt. But He gave us the responsibility to look after them. It's an important job. We can't take it lightly. I wish there was more protection out there for life. Surely, we could come together. But often than not, this doesn't happen. If only. If only we could actually watch over this world and its inhabitants. The interesting thing is it wasn't supposed to be this way. We were all meant to coexist, and someday we will with His creation. I look forward to this. In fact, I can't wait. There will finally be peace, love, and protection over all living things. Someday. It will happen, but until then, we care for His creation - our animals.

Care for your animals. Care for His world.

"A righteous person has regard for the life of his animal, but even the compassion of the wicked is cruel." - Proverbs 12:10 NASB

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Memorial Day: Freedom Poem

Freedom
by Grace Thorson

Freedom is a treasure,
That we must protect,
From haters of freedom,
Who don't understand its measure.

Freedom is always just,
That we must treat everyone equal,
Otherwise, we would lose freedom,
And crumble into dust.

Freedom is a gift,
That we must use truthfully,
If it's not, then we will be dealt with severely,
Because, otherwise, judgment is often swift.

Today, I pray that we remember the soldiers that gave their lives for our freedom. Because of that, we must protect freedom. It's a precious gift bought by many. And if we don't use it truthfully, we must be careful. It's not a thing to throw away or use with recklessness. May we always treasure our freedom. And let's also extend it to those who need it. Ultimately, thank you to the soldiers that gave everything. You're true heroes and forever will be.

Poem is from my book, Butterfly Wings. You can find it at andbookstooonline.com or on Amazon in both paperback and kindle. Thank you and may everyone remember. 💓

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Restaurant Spotlights: Koi Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi

I first tried Koi Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi last year with my Mom. It was for Mother's Day. We both really enjoyed the food. I got the Yaki Soba with beef. (we also got the Gyoza - which is my favorite appetizer). Since that first meal, I've been wanting to go back. So, I recently set up lunch with my friend Cheryl. She hadn't tried their food yet, but she was excited about it. And I just couldn't wait to eat there again. I already knew what I was getting. It was the same thing as last year - the Yaki Soba with beef. Just so good! 💓

On that day, I got there first and secured a booth. I was super hungry, and I couldn't wait for food. I knew that my friend was coming soon, so I ordered an appetizer - which was the Gyoza. My friend arrived soon after. We both shared the Gyoza. After that, we ordered our meals. She got the fried shrimp Tempura, and I got my Yaki Soba with beef. We didn't have to wait long as the food came quickly. I gobbled up my food, or rather ate half of it, since there was a lot. I knew I'd have it later for dinner. My friend liked hers and was pleased!

We saved what was left of our meals and put them in some to-go-boxes. My friend, Cheryl, is a great encourager and friend. She followed my blog on here as well as on my Facebook page. I hope we can eat at some more restaurants as I review them for my blog. 💙 After spotlighting Koi Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi, I definitely recommend trying their food. I plan on going back and getting their Udon. I'll make sure to write about my next experience there. When you try out their food, be sure to try their Gyoza and Yaki Soba (Oh, and the Mochi ice-cream, too!). To be honest, I'm sure I'll be back soon! It's my new favorite place!

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Book Spotlights: A Poem From Butterfly Wings

Today, I thought I'd share a poem from my book. Butterfly Wings is a personal collection of 30 poems and devotions. It's my first book. At this moment, I had an idea to offer a poem to my readers on this blog. I hope you enjoy the poem! There's 29 more within the book. All different themes to them. The book itself is a project born out of sorrow and joy. I felt like I needed to write it for anyone that needed hope. And I really enjoyed putting it together. 💙 This is kind of a secret, but I may write a second one. I'm going to pray about it first!

No Fear

I used to live in fear,
Would often shed a tear,
But no more this year.

No fear, I have rest,
Not from me, only the best,
From Heaven - this is a test.

No fear, He has me,
I already know, can see,
That I just have to be.

No fear, I'm loved,
But it's from high above,
Didnt' have to force it - shoved.

Finally, the quiet is here,
No more fear, not even a tear,
Peace - see, breathe, and hear.

I'm done, it's all over,
Clean from this; perfectly sober,
From the pain - no more, Grace

If you'd like to read the rest of my book, you can find it at the bookstore ...And Books, Too! It's also available on Amazon in paperback and kindle. Plus, if you'd like to learn more, you can visit my pages for my book and my ministry. Thank you! Really appreciate your support.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Photo Quests: Admiring The Lilacs

Intro: I had taken photos outside with my camera. I was looking for flowers, and I definitely found some at home. The lilacs were some of the ones I discovered. They're beautiful, and smell wonderful, too. I was excited to see the bush in full bloom.

Quest Ending: I'll never forget the scent that Lilacs have. They may be one of my favorite plants. Of course, I find it extremely hard to not like any plant. I'm just so grateful that I'm close to so many of them. It's truly a magical spring. Like, always. Thank you, Lord.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Book Spotlights: Song In The Night

Synopsis: Song in the Night

As a young Christian, Kevin Thorson was a normal, healthy 19-year-old. Music was his life, and he planned to play his guitar and use his talents for God. Abruptly, all seemed to end July 11, 1997.

His recalls the words from that dreaded phone call: Pam, you need to sit down... Kevin has been in an accident... paralyzed... ventilator... hospital... She could only comprehend the bits in between those horrifying words. Kevin was lying paralyzed on a ventilator in a foreign country with a broken neck.

Pam Thorson, with painful openness, recounts the true story of her family's nightmare as they struggled to live out their faith in the face of impossible odds. Song in the night traces the journey of her family to find peace in the midst of so much darkness.

You can find this book on Amazon in hardcover and kindle.

Author: Pam Thorson

I kept waiting for the happy ending to arrive... but I finally took the advice of a dear friend: Write the pain.

So Pam Thorson finally writes about her teenage son's tragic accident. From those first agonizing days to the surprising interventions of God that brought Kevin back from the brink of death, he earned the nickname Miracle in the Making.

Song in the Night is a story of their long suffering and God's tender grace; it is a story of assurance that the family is moving upward and onward. Pam insists that it is not about us. It is about our God... Who delights at the sound of His beloved children singing especially during that long, cold night before the dawn.

 About: Pam Thorson

Pam Thorson is a nurse, full-time caregiver, speaker, and author of four books: Song in the Night; Out from the Shadows: 31 Devotions for the Weary Caregiver; Arrow: the History and People of an Idaho Community, and Blood Falls. She is a regular contributor for the Christian music website CMADDICT.com. Pam lives in the Northwest with her family. You can also find her on Facebook and her website bloodfalls.net. 

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Wordless Wednesday: Surrounded By Flowers

Devotional: His Abundant Blessings

We don't always receive good things. Sometimes life is difficult. I know what these days are like. I've faced many of them. Life can also be back and forth. There will be hard days and easy days. There will even be a mix of both. I've discovered for myself that there's usually some kind of blessing in a day no matter how hard it is. This isn't always the case, however. I know that life can get unbearable. But know this, there can be blessings. If we're given some rest and peace, we can then see the gifts of that day. When we can see them, it brightens our day like nothing else. It's a wonderful blessing from God.

God's blessings can be anything, I believe. He can make our day brighter through someone else. That person could be led to bless you. He can bless you with what seem to be simple gifts, but in turn, become the biggest blessings. I love it when my cat gets to cuddle with me. I'm reminded of the gift that I have a wonderful cat that provides me with comfort. And God created my cat! How awesome! We can experience God's blessings through prayer, too, which is one of the reasons why it's so important. Keep praying. You never know what could happen through talking with God. Don't give up, please. Together, we can keep at it.

We can receive God's blessings through almost anyone. Even you could be that blessing for someone. If you specifically feel led by God, He might just use you to help a person you know, and a stranger. It's so important to learn how to listen to God. He might be moving your heart to touch another heart out there. You can bless people by giving, helping, encouraging, or assisting them. It's limitless, and I wish more people would be open to it. We can become so engrossed in our own lives that we forget. But if we truly open our hearts, wonderful things can happen. With God, we can help change someone's life. 

Only with Him, can we experience His blessings. And He gives them out. I hope you find some of His blessings today and throughout. So, I pray, may His blessings flow abundantly to you when you need them. His gifts are many, and He is a generous God. Now, I don't mean He's going to make you rich with money. But He'll make you rich in His love, faith, and hope. And I pray you'll be gifted with much of those and are able to share them with others. He loves you so much. I'm sure He'll bless you in some way. So, take His blessings and offer them freely to others. You might just change a heart or two for His Kingdom.

His abundant blessings. 

"May He grant you your heart's desire and fulfill your whole plan!" - Psalm 20:4 NASB

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Restaurant Spotlights: Rooster's Waterfront Restaurant

Recently, my Mom and I visited Rooster's Waterfront Restaurant. We had planned for a while to have lunch there. A day opened up and we excitedly went. We've been to Rooster's before, so it wasn't new (we just keep going back). It's become a favorite place for me and my family. We've had so many celebrations there. This particular day was free to go, so we dropped by. I was looking forward to eating there with my Mom. I also knew that we would have to eat some clam chowder. I thought I'd like the mushroom burger, too, but later changed my mind. Both were tempting, especially the clam chowder. I just had to.

When we entered, we were welcomed by a friendly waitress. While we followed her to a booth, I enjoyed looking at the decor. It's so fun inside. Outside was super windy! I'm just glad it didn't rain that day, but our hair was crazy. We sat down at our booth and ordered our drinks. I chose a Mountain Dew, and my Mom selected a coffee. She said that Rooster's has some of the best coffee for a sit-down restaurant. I haven't tried it, but I should next time. We then ordered a cup of clam chowder. I have to be honest; I can be picky with clam chowder. It's the clams. But when they gave us our cups of chowder, I was elated.

Oh. my. word. The clam chowder was creamy. The clams were great, and the potatoes were soft. The flavor was absolutely the best. I really don't know if there's any other place locally that does clam chowder, but Rooster's chowder is amazing. I would go back just for the clam chowder. Once I slurped up the chowder, they came by with our halibut and chips. We both got the same dishes. Yum! The crust on the fish was crunchy. The fish itself was so good! I dunked the fish in the tartar sauce, and the fries in the fry sauce. Together, they were wonderful. I've had this meal before, and it's always an awesome choice. 💓

The meal was just what I expected - perfect! After we were done with our food, we headed out. I stopped to take a picture of the river on our way to the car. Another thing that I like about Rooster's is the river. When you're seated, you can get a view of the river from where you're at. The river is so big, that it makes me think it's the ocean. It's not, obviously, but it's a nice comparison since I always miss the ocean. If you haven't tried Rooster's yet, I highly recommend that you do! It's one of my favorite places to eat at. I hope to go many more times to enjoy their food and atmosphere. I'll be going again soon, I'm sure. 💙

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson