Oh Christmas Tree

I’m sitting here in pajamas, admiring my tree for the last time, and pondering 2010.

2010 has been a Year of New Opportunities.

Sisters in Stitches

A 2009 Christmas gift from my youngest son inspired me to kick off a new knitting ministry in our church. Our group started out small, but in the last twelve months, we’ve evolved from knitting into a group of knitters, crocheters, quilters, & embroiderers. Our group size doubled, students are now teachers, and we changed our name to Sisters in Stitches. This group ranges in ages 12 to 83. I’m so blessed by each of the women in our ministry.

The Ponderers Go to Florida!

In February, I attended the My Book Therapy Deep Thinkers Retreat in Florida. Getting there was an adventure, but once I did, God reaffirmed my Ponderer friendships and added more wonderful women to our group. These girls are my prayer warriors, encouragers, and closest friends! My writing wouldn’t be where it is today without Susan May Warren’s & Rachel Hauck’s incredible teachings and the encourage and prayers of The Ponderers.

In March, I submitted my completed manuscript, Draw Me Close, to Rachelle Gardner, and received an offer of representation a week later. No, this is NOT the norm. I cried, happy danged (no, not a typo) with my family and friends, and then wondered if it was real. Rachelle reassured me there had been no mistake. She’s a fabulous agent, and I’m so blessed. Oh, and I turned 41 in March, but that didn’t bother me a bit.

In April, we lost a beloved member of Hubby’s family who battled cancer. I’m praying she’s dancing with angels today. Rachelle submitted my novel to Tina James at Steeple Hill who had requested it at the 2009 ACFW conference.

The summer was spent working, writing, crafting with friends, helping with Vacation Bible School and anticipating “The Call.”

In September, I attended the 2010 ACFW conference where I laughed, cried, and shimmied with my Ponderers. We cheered our hearts out when Susan May Warren won ACFW’s Mentor of the Year. I met with Tina James about my second novel and received permission to send the full manuscript when it was completed. Talking with my sweet agent reaffirmed she had not made a mistake in representing me. 🙂

Rachelle & Lisa

The Ponderers

In October, we learned my first novel, Draw Me Close, had not been received by Tina, so Rachelle sent it again, and I settled in for a new round of waiting. No worries, though, because I had another book to finish. Hubby and I also celebrated 21 years of marriage.

In November, my hubby graduated summa cum laude with his degree in Business Management, Marketing, & Administration. We celebrated Thanksgiving with family and appreciated our blessings.

December swept in with more snow than our area had seen in years. Hubby and our youngest son spent a lot of hours shoveling. Christmas came way too fast, as usual, but I was so blessed to be woken up by my seventeen-year-old son with the enthusiasm as a three-year-old. We spent the morning laughing and celebrating together.

Winter Wonderland

Christmas blessings!

As I look back over the past year, one thing remained constant–God’s unfailing faithfulness. When I worried, he tsked tsked and reminded me He had everything under control. When I lacked grace, He refilled my well from His unending supply. When my heart broke, He filled in those cracks. When I rejoiced, He danced with me.

Every year I pray and ask what God wants me to cling to for the upcoming year. 2009 was the Year of Change. 2010 was the Year of New Opportunities. 2011 will be the Year of Hope.

As you ring in the new year, what is God laying on your heart for 2011? Whatever it is, be sure to keep Him at the forefront of your plans.

Happy New Year!