The Imperfectionist's Guide to Sorting Your Stuff by Lisa Lawmaster Hess

I'm excited to have Lisa visit again! We've been author friends for a long time, and it's a real privilege to enjoy reading this interview from her. Join in on the fun!

Thanks so much for joining me on Sunnybank Secrets, Lisa.

About Lisa:
Lisa Lawmaster Hess is a Jersey girl who moved to Pennsylvania for college, then stayed.

The author of three nonfiction books

• Acting Assertively, Diverse Divorce and Know Thyself 

and two novels

• Casting the First Stone and Chasing a Second Chance

Lisa has also written for online and print publications. Lisa blogs at The Porch Swing Chronicles and Organizing By STYLE and is a frequent contributor to CatholicMom.com, Teachers of Vision and Today’s Catholic Teacher. A retired elementary school counselor, Lisa is an adjunct professor of psychology at York College of Pennsylvania. Her latest book is Know Thyself: The Imperfectionist’s Guide to Sorting Your Stuff. 


NOW, on to the interview:

Is there a story behind your books?/What started you on your writing journey?

Know Thyself is my fifth book, but I’ve been working on novels, so it’s been over a decade between non-fiction books! This one (which took every bit of that decade to get from idea to completion) arose out of my own desire to get sustainably organized in a way that worked for me. An unexpected move that I didn’t initially want to make was the catalyst for working on my own organizational skills, and the ensuing research and journey led me to the conclusion that organization is not a one-size-fits-all proposition.


What kind of books do you enjoy reading? (Book recommendations very welcome!)

I enjoy a good novel but, lately, I’ve been reading a lot of non-fiction. Last summer, I downloaded Audible and I’ve found that I love listening to audiobooks even though my commute is short. My recent favorites include Becoming by Michelle Obama, Still Foolin’ ’Em by Billy Crystal and Jodi Piccoult’s Small Great Things. I’m currently reading Biased by Dr. Jennifer Eberhardt and listening to Gretchen Rubin’s Better Than Before. I’m also reading an advance copy of Clarice G. James’s The Girl He Knew. Think I can finish them all before the semester starts at the end of August??


Which character in your newest release most interested you while you wrote? Why?

Since Know Thyself is non-fiction, I’m going to take the liberty of changing the question a bit, and share the styles that best describe me. In Know Thyself, I share three personal styles (I need to see it, I love to be busy and I love stuff) and three organizational styles (cram and jam, drop and run and I know I put it somewhere) that influence our organizational success. I most identify with the I need to see it personal style and the drop and run organizational style, so I plan my organizational systems around those styles.


Why do you write in the genre you do?

I write both fiction and non-fiction. For fiction, the draw for me is the characters. I’m a total pantser, but I have to sketch out my characters and their backstories before I sit down to write. Once I know who the people are, I introduce them to each other and take it from there.

With non-fiction, I like that I can write about topics I find interesting and relevant. Know Thyself is my first non-fiction book with a spiritual aspect to it, written primarily for adults. Acting Assertively and Diverse Divorce were both written for the educational market and while the concepts transferred to adults, they were written for adults to use with children.


How much research do you do for each book?

Because I write contemporary fiction and my non-fiction is within my wheelhouse as a psychology instructor, I don’t usually do a lot of research. If I come up against a topic that’s important to the story that I want to know more about, that’s when I dig in. My goal is not to become an expert but, rather, to write accurately and knowledgeably about the topic.


Share a verse or Scripture passage with us that is special to you. (and why it's special)

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.” This verse hangs in a place of prominence in my office – in fact, I purchased a ceramic cross with this verse on it so I could see it daily. Seven years ago, I took advantage of an early retirement incentive and retired from my career as a school counselor. My daughter had just finished middle school and college loomed in four years. I knew the early retirement was the right choice – most days, anyway – but leaving behind a job with a great salary and benefits was a scary proposition. I read this verse a lot that first year until my next steps became clear and, to this day, it sustains me when things are hard.


About the book:
Know Thyself: The Imperfectionist’s Guide to Sorting Your Stuff, is meant for anyone who has ever struggled to get organized. So often, people who’ve struggled with this life skill have also lost faith in themselves, which is more demoralizing than any amount of clutter. Know Thyself takes a light-hearted approach to a serious topic, with the aim of building confidence alongside organizational skills by building on what we do naturally. This strengths-based approach helps readers to organize in a sustainable way, rather than merely clearing the clutter and hoping for the best.

Link to book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/2Jtx6aH

Lisa on social media: 

Facebook: Lisa Lawmaster Hess, Writer
Twitter: @orgbystyle
Instagram: lisalawmasterhess
Pinterest: Lisa Lawmaster Hess
Organizing by STYLE blog: www.orgbystyle.blogspot.com

Thanks for visiting, Lisa, and readers, check out her book on Amazon!

***

Both rebels in their own way, Josie and Jerry Patterson must figure out how to keep the other's love...and keep the German enemy at bay.

She has two loves—her skating and Jerry, her husband. But when he returns home looking like a skeleton trying to return to life, she's scared. What happened in Germany to change a man so much? Has another woman captured his heart?

Jerry has vowed to let Josie live her own glamorous life...especially after what happened in Germany. But when his wife's life is threatened, Jerry realizes he can't stand by and do nothing. Jerry has to risk all for the very soul and life of himself—Josie.

These two damaged, rebellious people learn the hard way that leaning on God instead of their own selves and abilities is the only true way to love and happiness.

Buy the Book:

https://www.amazon.com/Carole-Brown/e/B00EZV4RFY/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1492661357&sr=1-1

About Carole:

Besides being an active participant in many writing groups, Carole is an award-winning author and enjoys mentoring beginning writers. She loves to weave suspense, tough topics, romance, and whimsy into her books and is always on the lookout for outstanding titles and catchy ideas. She and her husband reside in SE Ohio but have ministered and counseled nationally and internationally. Together, they enjoy their grandsons, traveling, gardening, good food, the simple life, and did she mention their grandsons? 

Personal blog: http://sunnebnkwrtr.blogspot.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CaroleBrown.author

Amazon Author Page:  http://www.amazon.com/Carole-Brown/e/B00EZV4RFY/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1427898838&sr=8-1
BookBub:  https://www.bookbub.com/authors/carole-brown

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/browncarole212

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/sunnywrtr/boards/

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/5237997-carole-brown

Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/carole-brown-79b6951a?trk=nav_responsive_tab_profile

Stitches in Time:  http://stitchesthrutime.blogspot.com/

A Visit with George Cargill: In the Grip of God

Welcome, Author George Cargill. He is a new author friend, and I've truly enjoyed reading his interview below. 

What started you on your writing journey?

It was one of the worst days of my life that got me started on the road that ended up with a novel. I began the ministry of the gospel as a middle-aged man in a church that believed in redemption and ignored my past baggage. The people took me in, and I came to love them with all of my heart. Then they made me a pastor and I found my work as God’s servant in His kingdom. It was a shock when, after fifteen years, the Senior Pastor of the church let me go. I thought I would be a pastor there as long as I could walk and talk. I still have the image in my mind of the Pastor telling me it was over. I thought, “I am only sixty-two. It can’t be over.” I wasn’t prepared emotionally or financially for retirement. Bad day. But God and prayer carried me on. 

The Lord took care of all of my needs and provided opportunities and resources for ministry. In 2011 I founded Following the Book Ministries, an international online ministry for the advancement of faith and Biblical knowledge. I continued leading several Bible study groups and preaching from time to time. It was in studying the eighteenth chapter of Acts that I became fascinated with the Apostle Paul’s journey into Corinth. He wrote to the Corinthians, “I came to you in weakness and fear and much trembling.” I think those words were literal. Paul came into that great pagan metropolis alone, beaten down, and out of money. How did he find Aquilla and Priscilla? Who were the people of the household of Stephanas, the first converts in Corinth? Who was that mysterious man Titius Justus? I began writing a story about Paul and the people of Corinth, not just about what he did and the story of the redeemed people of Corinth but about the kind of man who could take on an impossible mission for Jesus. Three years later In the Grip of God: Journey into Corinth was published by Brimstone Fiction. I thank God for His providence and the people He sent to help me.

Which character in your newest release most interested you while you wrote? Why?

Of course, since the novel is about Paul, his character dominates the story. But I became interested in the women Paul mention in his letters. People such as Priscilla, Chole, Junia, Phoebe, Lydia and others whom Paul referred to as deacons, fellow workers and partners in ministry. The one that interested me the most was Priscilla. Her husband was named Aquila and together they were a ministry team of whom Paul said, “…for my life they risked their necks.” Romans 16:4 (NASB) I developed her character in the book as a godly woman who, though small in stature, could courageously break out of the role that the culture imposed on women in the first century.

Why do you write in the genre you do?

Historical fiction, whether the main character is historical or fictional, is the kind of book I like

to read. But I am also interested in the message that is presented in the New Testament by Jesus and His Apostles. I think a ripping good story set in the reality of history is the best vehicle to spread the message of redemption that the world needs.

How much research do you do for each book?

The history and culture of the Jews and of the Greek and Roman Empires in the five hundred years on either side of the time of Jesus has been a long-time interest of mine. I think most of the critical research that I did on the book was in fact-checking my writing. In the Grip of God: Journey into Corinth is not a history book or Scripture but has to be faithful to both to be believable. Solid research is critical when an author is presenting something that is a little different than the conventional understanding of history or the culture in which the character exists.

Share a verse or Scripture passage with us that is special to you.

Romans 8:31. This became one of my favorites when I was in Haiti. I saw this citation without the scripture painted on the top-top taxi trucks that are so colorful and ply the streets of Port-au-Prince. I did not have a Bible with me when I first saw it. Immediately the verse came to my mind, “…And we know that God causes all things to work together for good…” No, I thought, “that is Romans 8:28.” When I got my Bible and looked it up, I began weeping as I thought of all the horrible circumstances and problems of life in Haiti. The Christians in Haiti reply to these things with the inspired words of Paul, “What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who is against us?” (NASB)

In the Grip of God: Journey into Corinth

Alone, beaten down, out of money, and pursued by his enemies, Paul leaves wealth, power, and love to bring the gospel to the great pagan city of Corinth. Facing danger and death, he must

find a way to survive the laws of both the Jews and the Roman Empire itself. Soon, Paul finds himself no longer seeking God’s will but being inexorably carried along by Divine purpose.

BUY the book here:

Amazon

George Cargill is a fourth-generation pastor. His first novel, In the Grip of God: Journey into Corinth, chronicles the trials of the early Corinthian church through the eyes of the Apostle Paul. You can read more from Pastor George on his blog at georgecargill.com. Visit his ministry at https://followingthebook.org.

Follow George on Social Media

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GripofGod

Twitter: https://twitter.com/FollowingBook

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/george.cargill/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-cargill-407406123/

Thank you for joining me on Stitches Thru time, George. May God continue to bless your ministry!

Readers, do check out his books!

Thunder Dog: Book Review by Shirley Raye Redmond

Thunder Dog: The True Story of a Blind Man, His Guide Dog, and the Triumph of Trust

By Michael Hingson and Susan Flory
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
256 pages

Book Review By Shirley Raye Redmond

Everyone loves a good dog story about a canine hero. Rin Tin Tin, Lassie, Old Yeller, and the list goes on. Now you can add the name Roselle to that list. This incredible Seeing Eye dog—part golden retriever and part Labrador—calmly led her blind owner and one of his colleagues down 78 floors in one of the towers of the World Trade Center that eventually collapsed after a hijacked airplane crashed into it on September 11, 2001.

If you’re looking for a great story to inspire you in the New Year, this is it. It’s a story of faith and trust. You’ll also learn a lot about the intensive training that goes into producing a service dog like Roselle. This is a must-read for every dog lover.


Shirley Raye Redmond is the author of three inspirational novels, PRUDENCE PURSUED, VIPER’S NEST, and AMANDA’S BEAU, as well as two dozen children’s books, including the true story of THE DOG THAT DUG FOR DINOSAURS (Simon & Schuster). Touch bases at shirleyrayeredmond.com or Facebook

The Grimke Sisters - Similarities and Differences

Happy Tuesday everyone!

Tuesdays are my favorite day here on the STT blog because it's the historical tidbit day. :D

Sarah Grimke

Today I thought I would share a little bit about the Grimke sisters, a pair of ladies who fought for civil rights during the Victorian era. I studied them while writing 12 Sisters Who Changed History, and their lives fascinated me. They were the first female advocates of abolition and women's rights in America.

Sarah Grimke was much older than Angelina, however they always shared a special bond. Raised in South Carolina on a plantation, they witnessed slavery first hand and God ignited a fire in their hearts to abolish it. They were pivotal instruments in the anti-slavery movement in America. They even supported President Lincoln in his fight to end slavery during the Civil War.

Angelina Grimke

The two sisters were quite different in personality, and even differed greatly in their beliefs and exercise of faith, but that never drove them apart. This is one of the aspects of their lives that fascinated me the most. Sarah, for example, was very intent on finding the will of the Lord even in daily mundane tasks. She didn't trust her own judgement of such things, so she would fret and worry over whether or not she had made the right decision. Is it the Lord's will for me to sweep the house today, or should I do that tomorrow?

Angelina on the other hand, was confident in the Holy Spirit's influence and guidance in her decisions. She would pray over a matter, make a decision, and move forward trusting that the Lord would work it out.

However, despite this interesting contrast, the two sisters had the same passion, and used the same methods of oratory and writing to advocate for their cause. The work they accomplished together makes them heroines of the American culture.

I discuss the Grimke sisters and their influence on America in more detail in 12 Sisters Who Changed History.

Speaking of that book, I have an exciting announcement. 12 Sisters Who Changed History has been nominated for the Christian Indie Award! But this is a vote-driven contest, so if you feel 12 Sisters is worthy of the award, I'd love it if you'd take just a moment to click over and vote for us.

You'll find us under the NONFICTION - BIOGRAPHY/MEMOIR category. (You do not need to vote for every category if you don't want to.)

https://www.christianpublishers.net/19votes/

Grits and Gumbo for Church. Welcome, Martin Wiles!

I'm thrilled to introduce all of you to a new friend, Martin Wiles. Be sure to check out this nonfiction book and put it on your list to read. I'm sure you won't be sorry!

How long have you known that you were a writer?  Did you receive a clear “call?” Or have you just loved writing all your life?

I played around with writing a little when I was in college. For some reason, I began writing poetry. Poetry had never been a genre of literature I read earlier in my life, so I’m not quite sure why I was pulled in this direction. When my father died in 2009, I became serious about writing. How the two were connected, I’m not sure, but I believe I received a clear call at that moment. My father never wrote anything except the sermons he preached and the Bible studies he taught. Nor did he ever have anything published. Though I have written a few articles, most of my writing—which began at that point, is devotional in nature.

How do you spend your writing days?  Do you set goals to reach a certain number of words per day?  

My personal writing consists of five days each week: Monday through Friday. I think every writer needs a day or two off to refresh. My morning routine is to eat breakfast and then head to my computer. Since I’m a devotional writer, my goal is to write around 400 words each morning. I am also a freelance editor, so I spend a part of my day editing the devotions of other writers. I see this as my contribution to help writers succeed. Doing so keeps me sharp on my editing and proofing skills which in turn helps me become a better writer. 

You recently had another book published.  Would you take this time to describe it to us?  How and where can readers buy your books?

My most recent book—Grits, Gumbo, and Going to Church, was published by SonRise Devotionals, an imprint of Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas. This is a follow up to Grits and Grace and God, also published by LPC three years ago. Both books have a Southern theme. The most recent contains 30 devotions which have stories about my years growing up as a preacher’s kid—along with the practical spiritual application I learned. 

Readers can purchase the book from LPC (http://ow.ly/iXLi304EQV8), Amazon (http://ow.ly/UWqQ304ER0L), and Barnes and Noble (http://ow.ly/InlP304ERb8).

Where do you get ideas?  

My ideas come from real life and my personal experiences. I write short devotions because I believe more people will read something brief. Studies about our decreasing attention spans support my philosophy. God has taken me on a number of unpleasant journeys during my lifetime, but he has also taught me some important spiritual and life lessons along the way. I attempt to share these with readers who may be experiencing similar occurrences in their life. I also see spiritual lessons all around me every day through my life experiences and those of others. 

Do you ever feel like giving up?  Most people don’t understand the stress, the work, and the joy of being a writer.  How tenuous becoming a writer is. Do you care to share how it feels, what discouraging/encouraging times you’ve gone through?  Who’s inspired you the most?

• One of the most discouraging things about having my writing published is the editing process. Since I’m a freelance editor myself, I know how frustrating it can be for an author to please an editor. For me, once I’ve written what was on my heart, it’s difficult to change anything, but over the years I’ve learned to take an editor’s advice whether I enjoy it or not. The finished product is always better. 

• Another frustration is the rejections. They seem to mount up quicker than the acceptances do. This too just comes with the territory. 

• And I suppose the temptation to be jealous of other writers is also a frustration. Through the advice of sound Christian authors and editors, I’ve also learned to let go of the jealousy and instead to be glad about what God does for every author. 

The flip side of rejections is the challenge to find a publisher who will publish my book, accept my article, or publish one or more of my devotions. When the acceptance letters come or the contract arrives, the sweat of the creative process becomes worth it. 

Would you explain how you “chose” (or was chosen by) a publisher? Now, that you’re published, can you sit back and relax from the success you’ve experienced?

I had been affiliated with Christian Devotions for a couple of years by way of submitting devotions to their website and by attending their annual writer’s conference at The Cove. When Eddie Jones founded Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas, I approached him about the possibility of publishing one of my devotional books. He agreed and chose the Southern theme. My original book was a compilation of 365 devotions. Due to cost and sale ability, Eddie decided to divide it into three works. Grits and Grace and God was the first, and Grits, Gumbo, and Going to Church is the second. Whether the third will be published, I’m not sure. It may depend on sales.

I doubt I will ever sit back, relax, and be satisfied. My personality bucks against it. I will continue writing and posting to my website—whether another book is published or not. 

Would you give us your blog or webpage so everyone can check it out?   Anything else you’d like to share?  Promotional information?

Website:  http://www.lovelinesfromgod.com 

Social media links: 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/martinwilesgreenwoodsc 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/linesfromgod 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lovelinesfromgod 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martin-wiles-5a55b14a 

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/martinwiles 

About Martin:

Martin lives in Greenwood, SC. He and his wife, Michelle, are the founders of Love Lines from God (www.lovelinesfromgod.com). He is an author, minister, and freelance editor. His most recent book, Grits, Gumbo and Going to Church, is available on Amazon. He serves as Managing Editor for Christian Devotions (www.christiandevotions.us) and Assistant Editor for Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas (http://lighthousepublishingofthecarolinas.com) 

ABOUT CAROLE:

Besides being an active participant of many writing groups, Carole is an award winning author and enjoys mentoring beginning writers. She loves to weave suspense, tough topics, romance and whimsy into her books, and is always on the lookout for outstanding titles and catchy ideas. She and her husband reside in SE Ohio but have ministered and counseled nationally and internationally. Together, they enjoy their grandsons, traveling, gardening, good food, the simple life, and did she mention their grandsons? 

Personal blog: http://sunnebnkwrtr.blogspot.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CaroleBrown.author

Amazon Author Page:  http://www.amazon.com/Carole-Brown/e/B00EZV4RFY/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1427898838&sr=8-1

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/browncarole212

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/sunnywrtr/boards/

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/5237997-carole-brown

Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/carole-brown-79b6951a?trk=nav_responsive_tab_profile

Google+:    https://plus.google.com/u/0/113068871986311965415/posts

Word Sharpeners: https://wordsharpeners.wordpress.com/

Stitches in Time:  http://stitchesthrutime.blogspot.com/

God Called--He Needs Your Decision by Randy Kirk

Review:
Are you hungering for a closer walk with God? Do you realize that you need something more than what you have in your spiritual life? Then God Called by Randy Kirk is the book for you to read.

From the first chapter this book caught my attention. Filled with nuggets of wisdom and the instructions and encouragement to step out in faith for a fuller walk with God, this book carefully points out what it takes to go a little further in your daily life: to become a true disciple of Christ. Easy? Not at all. But for a very real sense of satisfaction in knowing you’re doing what you’re suppose to do at the right time in your life, becoming a disciple of Christ will give you a peace and fulfillment from a choice and decision that you must make. Excuses abound plentifully, no matter what age you are, to prevent one from praying the prayer of discipleship, and yet it all depends on your desire and willingness: are you willing to become humble and forsake all to follow Christ?

Kirk’s scriptures drive home his points and his knowledge in the topic is outstanding. His examples and quotes and expounding pinpoints the problems individuals have, the cost many will have, and the solutions to a life of happiness.

I heartily recommend this book for all serious Christians!



My Endorsement read as such:
When asked to read a copy of this book, I readily agreed, but was duly surprised at the impact the contents had on my own thinking and life. Being in an active ministry with my husband, I know what sacrifice and hard work means, and thought I knew what giving all to Christ meant. Yet I was convicted by the words that proved to me: to be a true disciple of Christ, one must be perfectly willing to do God’s will, to accept humbleness as part of their life and to choose to live this way with no strings attached. God’s will is my will.

I sincerely encouragement all Christians to read and act on Kirk’s book. Well, done, Mr. Kirk. You’ve given readers a powerful book.


Check out the book here:
http://bit.ly/GodCalled

Blessings!
Carole Brown

A Review of Teaching Diamonds in the Tough by Cleo Lampos

For all those who work with

and love children:

Back Cover:
Finding the potential in problematic students is challenging regardless of the setting: public school, private school, church clubs, youth groups, or Sunday school. In her book, Teaching Diamonds in the Tough, author Cleo Lampos reminds the reader on each page that every teacher possesses the power to shape a child s future.

Through illustrative episodes drawn from her teaching experiences, Lampos recreates the struggles, triumphs, and heartbreaks inherent in education. Undergirded with the belief that even the most incorrigible child can change if given affection, attention, and guidance, the author inspires educators with story, Scripture, quotes, and a suggested action plan. The challenge, according to Lampos, is to look beyond the rough exteriors of a student s attitude and behavior to their inner needs. Underneath may be a true Diamond in the Tough.

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My thoughts:
This book is a must-read for all those who love and work with children and youth. Cleo is a talented writer who knows her subject very well. Having come from a troubled home gives her the experinece to write a touching, excellent book that will stir you to action.

The stories are ones you can relate to if you've had experience dealing with the younger set. The discussion and action plans at the end of the chapters are good guides to go by.

No child is beyond hope. With love and earnest devotion, hopefully any and all children can be reached. Yes, it is tough to see below the rough exterior but love can crack that hard shell.

If you teach or work in programs that deal with children you'll want to grab a copy of this book! I just wish everyone could have this book to read, study, and encourage yourself. I highly recommend it.

Our children are the next generation!

Check it out here:
amazon

Blessings!