For seven or eight years I had a story incubating in my mind. I even visualized the scenes and the characters. You may not think that so unusual, but I'd never had an interest in writing--much less a romance. End time prophesies intrigued me. I read every single one of the Left Behind Series.
All this retired school teacher wanted to do was travel in an RV with her husband, doing all the touristy things. But God had a different plan. In November of 2009, I told my daughter about the story. She made a remark which was the spark the Lord used. "Why don't you write it, Mom?"
I went home that day and knew my life had changed forever. I got a new Toshiba laptop, a Sprint air card, and a printer. My husband and I set out on our latest RV adventure on January 1, 2010. My dear spouse took the couch out of the RV and replaced it with a writing table and file cabinets. I purchased every "how to" book I could get my hands on, and I joined American Christian Fiction Writers and its critique group, Scribes.
I think at first, my husband scratched his head and figured I was going through a "phase," a post-midlife crisis. But when I continued to pound the keys of my computer, he became convinced. And supportive. He helps me considerably with facts, details, and even plot ideas.
Now the Lord has blessed me with publication of five of my six novels. The first one, the story that lurked for so long, is not published yet. But I'm praying for God's open doors.
I think the reason I'm so thankful for this is the assurance that God does intervene in our lives. And when He wants to take us in the opposite direction from the way we were going, He gives us the grace to do it. He is sovereign.
Give Us This Day – February 1, 2012
As We Forgive – September 1, 2012
Deliver Us – April 1, 2013
A Hometown Fourth of July – July 1, 2012
Available from WhiteFire Publishing in 2014: Ryan's Father 2014
4 comments:
Anne, Thank you so much for allowing me to tell my story. You're a blessing.
I agree--God opened doors for me to do this, too. It just has to be the right time! It's neat to hear your story. :)
What a sweetie your husband is for being so supportive. I'm glad you followed God's plan for you, perhaps selfishly, since I enjoy your books. :-)
Patty, thanks so much for your comments. I love sharing that story because it had to be all God.
Laurel, Your words are too kind. I have prayed so hard that the Lord will use my stories for His glory.
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