Kathy Carlton Willis Communications

GUEST POST: Poppy Smith

2011-12-20T06:00:00.000-06:00

Eight Ways to Beat the Blues at Christmas

By Poppy Smith

Instead of a houseful of kids and their little ones running around laughing, crying, playing with toys and sneaking treats, this year my husband, Jim, and I will be home alone for Christmas. My automatic reaction is to feel sad—but I am glad that all of them will be celebrating the coming of Jesus with their in-laws. After all, we are usually the ones who get that privilege!

But—it’s easy to be sucked down into a “poor me” mindset and play the blues, unless we decide tochange our perspective. So here are eight simple ways to help you enjoy the holidays whether you’re physically or emotionally alone. Why not join me and let’s beat those blues which aren’t where God wants us at this special time of the year—or at any time!

Sing. Play music. Listen to the words and join in praising God. Singing is a guaranteed mood lifter and perspective changer. “Sing for joy to God our strength” Ps.81:1.
Smile. Smile at little children. Their harried moms. The older shoppers who are trying to find just the right present. Make smiling your chosen expression (not through gritted teeth, however!). It will make you feel so much better and maybe lift up another lonely soul.
Invite. Is there someone you haven’t had time for this past year? Could you suggest meeting for coffee, lunch, or even over to your home? Perfection isn’t needed—only a loving heart that looks beyond it’s own world.
Rest. Remember all those too early mornings when you longed to just stay in bed? Now’s your chance. Take time to read a book of the Bible or several psalms. Choose a special book, magazine, or television program. Make or buy some once in a year yummy treats and ENJOY this gift of time!
Give gifts to others. Go online and look for simple Christmas recipes. Make peppermint candy or a cranberry loaf and go drop it off at a homeless shelter or place that serves those without a home. Change your perspective from looking inward to looking outward—as God our Savior did when He gave us the most amazing gift of love any one can receive.
Write a list of your blessings. Think back over this past year. Even if it has been one of the most difficult you’ve experienced, ask God’s Spirit to show you where He was present, loving and supporting and guiding you through. He will show you something and lift your heart.
Go to a Christmas Eve Service. Even if you’re by yourself, don’t miss the presence of God amidst the beauty of this celebration. Let your senses feast on the beauty, your ears delight in the music, your heart be moved to new heights of gratitude and love.
Pray about your dreams for 2012. What do you want to see happen in the coming year? Have you thought about changes you want to make? New paths to walk? Write out what comes to mind when you think of taking better care of yourself physically, intellectually, emotionally and spiritually. (See my video: Take Care of Yourself, …….. or check my website on the media clips page).

May your “Home Alone” Christmas fill you with joy and a fresh awareness that Christ is with you, whether you’re surrounded by people or peacefully alone.

Poppy Smith

With her fun personality and passion for communicating life-changing truths, Poppy Smith inspires believers to thrive spiritually and personally. Poppy’s practical how-to messages

(in print or in person) uses colorful examples from her own struggles to be more like Jesus. She encourages women (and men, at times) to grow

in every kind of situation—whether joyful or painful! Poppy is British, married to an American, and has lived in many countries. She brings an international flair seasoned with humorous honesty as she illustrates Bible truths. A former Bible Study Fellowship Lecturer, Poppy’s teaching challenges women to look at their choices, attitudes and

self-talk. As a result, God’s speaks, changing hearts, changing minds, and changing lives.

http://www.poppysmith.com/newsletters.htm

The Sounds of Night Blog Tour Winner

2011-12-19T09:00:00.000-06:00

$75 Best Buy Gift Card

The Winner of The Sounds of Night

Grand Prize Giveaway is

Doreen

who left a comment at
joyeverafter.blogspot.com

Benny's Angel Blog Tour Winner

2011-12-12T09:17:00.001-06:00

The Winner of the Benny's Angel

Grand Prize Giveaway is

GrandaMa Carol B

who left a comment at
myheartbelongs2books.blogspot.com

GUEST ARTICLE: Dr. Charles W. Page

2011-12-09T09:58:00.001-06:00

Surrendered Sleep

He Sees You When You’re Sleepin’...

By Dr. Charles W. Page

Do you recall trying to sleep on Christmas Eve while waiting for Santa to come to town? The anticipation of Saint Nicolas and all his goodies was just too much—who could sleep? The lyrics of Santa Claus is Coming to Town taunted me. “He sees you when you’re sleeping—he knows when you’re awake…” I tossed and turned trying to fall asleep, fearful I’d miss out on Santa’s visit if he caught me awake. I never doubted Santa’s ability to be aware of my wakefulness.

Unfortunately, as adults, the issues that keep us awake during the Christmas season are more complicated than those we experienced as kids. Financial burdens, strained relationships, difficult decisions, brooding regrets and fretful thoughts race through our minds and hinder our rest.

There is someone who “sees you when you’re sleeping and knows when you’re awake.” It’s not Santa Claus. The Bible reminds us, God’s eyes never close. Perhaps this truth can tuck us in for the night.

“He will not allow your foot to be moved; He who keeps you will not slumber.
Behold, He who keeps Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep.” (Psalm 121:3-4)

We erroneously think that as we “turn in” that God somehow “turns off” or moves on to do more important things. But God doesn’t wait for us to wake up before He returns to work. God is just as active during our sleep—or sleeplessness. Believers can rest assured knowing God is awake guarding our lives.

What does God do as we slumber? Psalm 127:1-2 reminds us that God gives to those that He loves as they sleep. What does God give? Understanding God’s generous nature, one rendering would be that God gives to the believer whatever is needed at the time. God can give you wisdom and direction with decisions as you “sleep on it” overnight (Psalm 16:7, James 1:5). Maybe there is a financial need. The scriptures are filled with examples of how God provided for the physical needs of those He loved as they rested (I Kings 19:1-8; Exodus 16:1-8).

God’s gifts are good, perfect (James 1:17), eternal (Ephesians 1:3) and purposeful (Galatians 5:22-25). They do not require batteries, warranties and cannot be purchased in stores. But they are available 24/7/365—not limited to one night each year. God’s greatest gift did not arrive under a tree but on a tree (John 3:16). “He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him freely give us all things?” (Romans 8:32)

It’s plain to see, God has our back as we sleep. Try this Christmas recipe for rest.

Repent—in areas where we are aware of our transgressions. “A clean conscience
makes a soft pillow.”
Release—control of problems you’re facing and give them over to God.
Relate—connect with God through prayer and meditation while in bed.
Rest—allow God to do what you cannot do for yourself as you sleep.
Receive—God’s unmerited forgiveness, grace and blessings while you sleep.

An English proverb reminds us, “As you make your bed so you must lie in it.” The truth of God’s Word helps us face our situations. Although we cannot change the failures of our past, we can rest with a clean conscience based on God’s gift of forgiveness. Our current circumstances may appear overwhelming, but God gives His presence and His guidance in our hour of need. Our future is secure and hopeful when God’s greatest gift—His Son—is kept in view. A life supported by a vibrant, healthy relationship with the Shepherd of Sleep makes the most comfortable mattress. In childlike faith learn to trust Him as you lie down to sleep and remember: “He sees you when you’re sleeping.”

Charles W. Page, M.D. is a sleep-deprived surgeon who completed medical school and residency at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas. Dr. Page is currently a rural surgeon and has taken numerous medical mission trips to South America and the Middle East. He and his wife Joanna live in Texas with their five children. He is the author of Surrendered Sleep: A Biblical Perspective. You can find more information at surrenderedsleep.com.

Surrendered Sleep

A Biblical Perspective

by Dr. Charles W. Page

PUBLISHER: Camino Real Publishers

ISBN-10: 0983138109
ISBN-13: 978-0983138105

PRICE: Paperback: $14.95; Ebook: $10.95

Available at:

Amazon or Surrendered Sleep

FBC Brenham Christmas Musical

2011-12-08T08:42:00.001-06:00

Brenham's First Baptist Church

presents

The Night Before Christmas

December 10th & 11th

7:00 PM

Russ and Kathy Willis will both be a part of their local church's Christmas musical The Night Before Christmas. Kathy is in the choir's alto section, Russ in the tenor section and the soloist on "Orphans of God." First Baptist Church is located at 304 North Market Street, Brenham, Texas. If you are in the area, we would love to have you join us!

GUEST ARTICLE: Linda Rondeau

2011-12-05T08:08:00.001-06:00

The Other Side of Darkness Trailer
CLICK HERE

Close Encounters of the Moose Kind

By Linda Rondeau

I gasped as the gigantic mound stepped from the woods into our path, heads taller than our compact car. My husband swerved and we missed the animal by inches. “Was that a moose?” my husband asked.

I laughed.

“What’s so funny?”

“My heroine’s life is changed when she runs into a moose.”

We both giggled over God’s sense of humor.

That we found ourselves on the back roads of Franklin County at four in the morning was in and of itself God’s doing. I hadn’t planned on attending the ACFW Writers Conference in Minneapolis. “If I final in the contest then I’ll go,” I told my husband.

I did final, and my words haunted me. And so once again God changed my plans to fit into His. In rural upstate New York, flight connections often require a pre-dawn departure, and we had taken the country road to save time.

I shared my moose tale with a writer friend who laughed her prophecy. “That moose was a smile from God. He has plans for this manuscript.”

As time went on, God continued to smile affirmation after affirmation even through a dramatic relocation to Florida. Then, eleven years from the day that I felt God’s call to write professionally, my agent called with the news—a publisher had offered a contract. “It’s for Dawn’s Hope, but the editor wants to change the title to The Other Side of Darkness,” she said.

I did agree the alternate title sounded better and trusted the editor’s choice.

Yet, it wasn’t until later that God revealed His hand had been in the making of the book long before the first words were typed, long before I imagined my character’s accident, long before He sent a moose to confirm He would soon fulfill a promise made to me over a decade ago.

During a speaking engagement at a local women’s meeting, I shared my journey from call to call, reading a poem I wrote that very day God pulled me from one life to set me on another, one undefined and uncertain. I had obeyed His leading and He immediately gave me a poem, “The Song of Peace.” As I shared the poem with the women’s group, my eyes misted when I read the line, “Praise the Lord when Hope seems foolish…There is light on the other side of darkness.”

Could it be that even then, God was smiling on a book not yet imagined? I believe He did.

Author Bio

Award-winning author, LINDA RONDEAU, writes for the reader who enjoys a little bit of everything. Her stories of redemption and God’s mercies include romance, suspense, the ethereal, and a little bit of history into the mix, always served with a slice of humor. Walk with her unforgettable characters as they journey paths not unlike our own. After a long career in human services, mother of three and wife of one very patient man, Linda now resides in Florida where she is active in her church and community. Readers may visit her web site at www.lindarondeau.com.

The Other Side of Darkness

by Linda Rondeau

PUBLISHER: Harbourlight Books

ISBN-10: 161116138X

ISBN-13: 978-1611161380

PRICE: Paperback: $16.99, Kindle: $5.99

Available at:

Pelican Book Group

Amazon

KCWC BLOG TOUR: The Sound of Night

2011-12-01T13:29:00.001-06:00

The Sounds of Night

Company name: Christian Apps 4 Kids
Founder: Jessica Kirkland
Type of App: Book app
Target Audience: Children ages 2-8 years
Availability: iPad, iPhone, iPod touch,

and all Android phones and tablets.

Price: Apple App Store: $5.99

Android Marketplace: $2:99

The Sounds of Night

App Blog Tour

December 5-9

DESCRIPTION: The Sounds of Night is a book app that helps put a child's mind at ease when the lights go out at bedtime. This book addresses one of the primary feelings young children face; fear. The Sounds of Night reinforces the principle that God is the Creator of every creature. Since God makes all the animals that scurry and screech at night, children can lie down and sleep in peace.

FEATURES: The Sounds of Night has over 75 touch points/interactions. It has rich illustrations and 4 Bible verses on fear that kids can learn with their parents and share with their friends.

DEVELOPMENT: Jessica Kirkland is a member of Moms with Apps. She recently launched Christian Apps 4 Kids, which seeks to draw kids closer to Christ one app at a time. Her inaugural app is a result of the fear that was such a part of her life:

In every season of life, the Enemy would whisper the lie that I would “never make it” to the next. I believed it. Time and time again, I thought his words held power. As a young child, I never thought I would live to see my school years. Once I entered school, I never thought I would live to see the next day, next grade, or milestone in life. I listened to a very real enemy, even though I didn’t want to. Even though I came from a strong, Christian family, I felt powerless to stop the lies. Fear gripped me, stole from me, and taunted every careful step I took.

Jessica believes the only way to be free from fear, as an adult or child, is to replace fearful thoughts with God's Word. Her desire for each book project is that they not only build character, but help set kids free.

The book app was developed in partnership with ROAR.

LINKS:

Promotional Video

QR Code Flyer (print poster to help spread the word)

The Sounds of Night in Apple iTunes

The Sounds of Night in Android Marketplace

Jessica Kirkland

Jessica Kirkland lives in Southeast Texas with her husband, Robb, and five-year-old triplets. She is an author and speaker whose greatest passion in life is to see young families grow deeper in their walk with God. Jessica's newest adventure includes launching Christian Apps 4 Kids, which seeks to draw kids closer to Christ one app at a time. A recent release is a book app that addresses fear and scary nighttime sounds called The Sounds of Night, designed for kids ages 2-8. When Jessica isn't writing, you can find her cheering her boys on at the soccer field, or watching her little girl at the dance studio.

To find out more about her current writing projects,

connect with her at:www.christianapps4kids.com

or on her personal blog: www.jessicakirkland.com

GRAND PRIZE GIVEAWAY

$75 Best Buy Gift Card
To enter the giveaway,
leave a comment at any
of the blog tour hosts
listed to the left.

Deadline for entry is 12/16/11.

BLOG TOUR HOSTS

Monday, December 5th

Tuesday, December 6th

Wednesday, December 7th

3 Stairs

Real Life Deals

Grow Where You're Planted

Dawn's New Day

Rethinking My Thinking

Thursday, December 8th

Victoria's Voice

Friday, December 9th

Blessed Legacy Stories

Live and Dream a Little Dream

Joy Ever After

Other Hosts:

Novel Books

Booknook Club

Creative Madness Mama

Mama Kautz

KCWC APP BLOG TOUR: Coming December 5-9

2011-11-22T08:59:00.001-06:00

The Sounds of Night

App Blog Tour

December 5-9

Company name: Christian Apps 4 Kids

Founder: Jessica Kirkland

Type of App: Book app

Target Audience: Children ages 2-8 years

Promotional Video

Availability: iPad, iPhone, iPod touch, and all Android phones and tablets.

Price: Apple App Store: $5.99; Android Marketplace: $2:99

App at Apple iTunes

App for Android Marketplace

KCWC BLOG TOUR: November 28 - December 2

2011-11-22T07:55:00.014-06:00

Benny's Angel

A God's Secret Garden Adventure

by Laura Allen Nonemaker

Tate Publishing

ISBN-13: 978-1-61346-009-2

Paperback: 24 pages

Retail: $8.99

Release: November 8, 2011

Meet The Characters

Video Trailer

Benny's Angel Blog Tour

November 28 - December 2

Book Summary

Who stole the flowers in God’s Secret Garden?

When Ella Eagle discovers that the flowers in God’s Secret Garden have wilted, she alerts Mayor Benny Bunny. The main suspect in the case is evil Count Slime, who is jealous of the joy the animals have in the garden. Mayor Benny calls in Oliver Owl, the captain of the Owl Force Wisdom Watchers, but the owls have not seen Count Slime during their patrols of the garden. Mayor Benny suggests the animals pray for an answer. God hears their prayer and sends Marietta the angel to help them solve the mystery.

This delightful tale uses animals, nature, and a visit from an angel to teach children the importance of prayer and the value of trusting God.

Author Bio

Laura Allen

Nonemaker

Laura Allen Nonemaker’s desire to write took root as a child in Bermuda. Since then, Laura has written in a variety of genres and her work has appeared in EssenceTreasury: Celebrating the Season, Alive! and Kentucky Monthly Magazine.

Laura has been involved in short-term missions, including trips to Russia, Poland, and the University of the Nations in Kailua Kona, Hawaii. Three years ago, her interest in the arts motivated her to join the planning team for Artful Missions, which conducts juried art shows and donates to outreaches in the U.S. and India to rescue women and children from human trafficking.

Grand Prize Giveaway

$85.87 Value

1 Vivitar Camcorder with Camera and 2X Zoom
1 Benny's Angel Picture Book
1 Benny's Angel 3-D Book
1 Benny's Angel Coloring Book
1 Benny's Angel Audio Book
1 Benny's Angel T Shirt
1 Benny Christmas Ornament
1 Marietta Christmas Ornament
1 96-Count Crayola Crayons

Visit one or more of the following Blog Tour Hosts and leave a comment to be eligible for the Grand Prize Giveaway:

Monday, November 28th

A Candle in the Dark

Alive in Spirit
In the Pages
Life As a Mom CEO
Living with Chronic Illness
Practical Frugality
Sarah's Blog of Fun

Tuesday, November 29th

Be Your Best Mom
Come Meet Aus Jenny
Granny's Perspective
Hanging Off the Wire
Knitting and Sundries
Lighthouse Academy
Real Life Deals
The Joy of Writing

Wednesday, November 30th
Corn Huskers Academy
My Heart Belongs to Books
Thursday, December 1st
Book Journey
Dragonflies 'n Daydreams
Ellis Reviews and Life
From His Heart to Yours
Pam's Wild Rose
PS Mom Reviews
Reviews by Molly
Shop Annies
The Nurse Mommy
The Touchstones
Friday, December 2nd
Blessed Legacy Stories
Janey's Muse
Live and Dream Little Dream
Loving Heart Mommy
Radiant Light
Mozi Esme

BLOG TOUR: Reflecting Him

2011-09-26T15:04:00.002-05:00

Life is not about me, but all about Him!

REFLECTING HIM

Blog Tour: September 26-30

DO YOU SEE JESUS

IN YOUR DAILY ACTIVITIES

OR SAVE HIM FOR EMERGENCIES?

God longs for you to spend your day with Him. Reflecting Him helps you pulls back the veil so you can see how a true relationship with the Lord changes your life. As Jesus becomes a part of everything you do, you will soon be reflecting Him to those around you.

In ten weeks, through Reflecting Him, you will:

Realize life is not about me, but all about Him.
See daily applications for lessons learned from scripture.
Understand how God is directing your life—often without you knowing it.
Learn the importance of prayer in your everyday activities.
Discover the joyful intimacy of a life filled with Jesus.
Realize how your personal relationship with Jesus changes when you make Him part of everything you do.

The study comes in small enough bites to digest, but deep enough content to stimulate change and growth. Carla McDougal’s refreshing authenticity and humorous style lifts you up and encourages you to dig deeper into the Word.

CARLA MCDOUGAL is founder of Reflective Life Ministries headquartered in the Houston, Texas area. Her true passion for her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, shines brightly, whether she is speaking or writing. She shares experiences from her own life to encourage women to live every day for Him. God is sending Carla around the world to speak to women from all walks of life—those living in the best of circumstances to those who have hit rock bottom.

Carla’s book, Reflecting Him: Living for Jesus and Loving It, is a 10-week study that encourages you to open your eyes to God’s daily life lessons. The more you ask God to be in your life, the more you will recognize His hand on everything you do. For more information on a growing number of products from Reflective Life Ministries, and to see about booking Carla for an event or interview, go to www.reflectivelifeministries.org.

Grand Prize Giveaway:

Reflective Life Ministries

Instant Leader Kit:

Video Teaching Series

Bible Study Book
Leader Guide
Music CD

To enter the giveaway leave a comment at any of these blogs:

Starting Monday. 9/26/11

Starting Tuesday, 9/27/11

Starting Wednesday, 9/28/11

Bless Their Hearts Mom

Pam's Wild Rose

Candle in the Dark

His Heart my Desire

Starting Thursday, 9/29/11

Bring on the Books

Faith Creativity Life

Hill Country Thoughts

She Sparkles

Stay in the Car Mom

Starting Friday, 9/30/11

Blessed Diablog

Live and Dream Little Dream

My Heart Belongs to Books

Should be Reading

Why Didn't You Warn Me

Grettajohns

Nanathena

Saved Sister

The Koala Bear Writer

How NOT to Get Published!

2011-09-23T09:14:00.000-05:00

Want to make sure you make a good first impression as a writer trying to pitch your writing project? Watch this hilarious video clip. It will show you pretty much every bad first impression a writer has made with me and other industry professionals like literary agents and acquisitions editors with publishing houses.

This video is sponsored by CLASS Christian Writers Conference. They're running a special registration right now for the conference—save $100 if you register before October 1st. Go to their website for more information: CLASS CWC

You Can Have a New Byline! - Guest Blogger Linda Gilden

2011-09-22T10:15:00.000-05:00

NOTE: Register by October 1st to save $100!

The Path to Publication

The straightest path to getting published these days is to learn the craft of writing and learn it well. Competition is stiff and editors and publishers are looking for writers who know how to write well.

At the CLASS Christian Writers Conference November 2-6, 2011, at the Ghost Ranch in Abiquiu, NM, you can learn to write well. Editors, publishers, and professional writers will be there to instruct, guide, and inspire. CLASS CWC is a great conference but what makes it unique?

One of the things that makes CLASS Christian Writers Conference different from others is that you can walk on to the campus of the CLASS conference unpublished and leave as a published author! How can that be?

One of the unique features of the conference is that during the four days, a book is created. Attendees bring an article to the conference. Those who attend are divided into groups of three with a mentor who is an editor, publisher, agent, or professional writer. These critique groups meet for one hour every day and every person with the help of the others works to polish his or her article for inclusion in the book. On the last day, all articles are given to the general editor of the book and she compiles them, edits them for clarity and flow, and gets them ready for the printer. Once the book reaches the printer and is typeset, it is bound into a lovely coffee table-type book and mailed to those who ordered copies. You do not have to purchase copies to participate. The books are mailed to contributors in time for Christmas gift-giving.

Last year’s book was called Out of the Overflow. The theme for the 2011 volume will be transformation. These subjects give attendees plenty of space to write personal experience stories that show how God is at work in their lives. Guidelines for this year’s book are at www.classeminars.org.

Says one Out of the Overflow author, “Receiving the books was so exciting! We got ours on the afternoon of Christmas Eve so I wrapped one up for our son; he read it to our family on Christmas morning. I am very much enjoying reading everyone's story and putting a face with the storyteller on many that I've read. There is a very high caliber of writing represented in this book and I will be happy to share my copies with family, friends and those who buy them when I speak at different venues.”

Would you like to take a giant step on your path to publication? Would you like to be a published author by the end of 2011? Why not join us at the CLASS Christian Writers Conference in November. For more information or to register go to www.classeminars.org and click on writing events, the writers conference, and conference book project.

Linda Gilden is Director of the CLASS Christian Writers Conference and enjoys helping others on the path to publication. For more about Linda and her writing and speaking go to www.lindagilden.com.

GUEST POST: Balin Jam

2011-09-20T08:00:00.000-05:00

SurrenderedSleep

ABiblical Perspective

By Charles W. Page, M.D.

Below is the final chapter of Dr. Page's book. This is bonus material that is included with the Surrendered Sleep Blog Tour.

CHAPTER 17

Balin Jam

Balin jam (“may you passyour night in peace”)—it’s how the Fulani people of western Africa say goodbye.This Fulani expression best captures the message of this book. Passing yournight in peace, from a biblical perspective, involves a whole lot more thansleeping well. It encompasses surrendering every aspect of sleep to God. Theprerequisite for having peace as we lay down to sleep is a growing, vibrantrelationship with God. Everything in our lives, including sleep, flows out ofour pursuit of our loving Father in Heaven. The ability to sleep is amultifaceted gift given by God, who likewise pursues a love relationship withevery individual on this planet.

FromGod’s perspective, sleep (or its absence) is a tool designed to help fulfillHis agenda in our lives and in His world. Our response should be twofold. Firstwe must transfer our focus off our personal sleep issues and onto the Shepherdof sleep. We must fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.Second, we need to relinquish control of sleep and allow God to shape ourhearts into His image. In so doing, we may find that we sleep better.

“Thereis an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event underheaven.” A life of surrendered sleep is characterized by the ability to discernthe time and seasons that God has prepared for us, and respond with a heart ofthankfulness and obedience.

Attimes we may experience peaceful sleep because we are pursuing a wise heart.Let it propel us on to greater heights of service. When we encounter stormsthat threaten to steal our sleep, let us cling to God’s presence and promiseswith a calm heart. If disobedience presents itself in our sleep patterns, wemust return to the One who removes our sin as far as the east is from the west.If God interrupts our sleep to call, instruct or intervene in our lives, ourhearts must respond in obedience.

Similarly,there are times when we must offer up to God a sacrifice of our sleep. Andlast, if we suffer intractable insomnia and unrest, let us move forward with apeace that passes all understanding. For an enduring and expectant heart knowsthat our reward and perfection is waiting just around the bend.

Surrenderyour heart to the One whose eyes never close. Allow Him to keep you and helpyou to “pass your nights in peace.”

Balin jam!

BLOG TOUR: Surrendered Sleep

2011-09-19T11:02:00.000-05:00

zzzzzzzz...Are you struggling with sleep?

God is just as active during your sleep (or sleeplessness)

as during your wakeful hours

Surrendered Sleep

Blog Tour — September 19-23

Book Summary

Sleep Clinics. Sleeping Pills. Sleep Systems. With all the focus on sleep, it’s obvious to anyone breathing (or not—in the case of sleep apnea) that sleep disorders are on everyone’s minds. Can’t fall asleep. Can’t stay asleep. So many problems, but so few zzzs.

Dr. Charles W. Page has been plagued with sleep deprivation his entire adult life. Whether from the rigorous unpredictable lifestyle of a general surgeon or dealing with obstructive sleep apnea, Dr. Page sees sleep as a precious commodity. Many of his surgical patients also report sleep problems on their medical histories. It’s certainly a widespread problem.

Although there is extensive medical literature regarding sleep, insomnia and sleep disorders, there is little instruction about these issues from a Christian worldview. Sleep was God’s idea—why shouldn’t we go to the One who created rest in the first place for answers to our sleep problems. One of the reasons Dr. Page wrote Surrendered Sleep was to heighten people’s awareness of the spiritual side of sleep issues, which often goes neglected in health and medical literature.

Author Bio

Dr. Charles W. Page is a sleep-deprived surgeon. He completed medical school and residency at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas and serves as surgeon in rural Texas. Dr. Page is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons and the Christian Medical and Dental Association. In addition to his involvement in the teaching ministry of his local church, he has participated in medical mission trips to Cameroon, Pakistan, Milawe, Niger, Mexico, Honduras and Nicaragua. He and his wife Joanna live in Texas with their five children.

Grand Prize Giveaway:

Surrendered Sleep Products
- Surrendered Sleep - Book
- Surrendered Sleep - 8-Volume DVD Series
- Sleep Songs - CD of music from Fletch Wiley

SLEEP - Lavender Vanilla Aromatherapy from Bath & BodyWorks

Pillow Mist (4 oz)
Body Wash & Foam Bath (2 oz)
Lotion (2 oz)
Candle (1.6 oz)

Tour Participants:

Visit any of the following sites to enter Grand Prize Giveaway:

Starting MONDAY, September 19, 2011

Starting TUESDAY, September 20, 2011

Stuff Smart

Starting WEDNESDAY, September 21, 2011

Starting THURSDAY, September 22, 2011

A Sandy Path Book Reviews

Starting FRIDAY, September 23, 2011

BLOG TOUR: Stress-Free Believer

2011-09-13T11:09:00.001-05:00

Feeling the Pressure?

Do you keep a clear head during times of stress?

Turn Worry into Faith,

Turmoil into Peace

Book Summary

Stress-Free Believers helps you dethrone the stress bully that is often caused by loss of employment, marital conflict, credit card debt, and countless other pressure points. Here is the battle plan you need to get harmful stress off your back so you can manage the tough times with composure.

You’ll learn how to:

Convert your thoughts from worry to faith.
Develop patience in the midst of chaos.
Take control of your thinking, emotions, and commitments.
Identify the tools God has given you to overcome stress.
Recognize the part you play in God’s comprehensive plan.
Allow God to work in your life as He did in the life of Jesus.

This step-by-step guide shows how to reduce unhealthy levels of stress in each area of daily living. The objective is not just to overcome our ordeals but to do so without anxiety.

Author Bio

Harold Metzel, a 30-year veteran as pastor, missionary, Bible College president and VP of a large charitable foundation in San Diego, currently coaches individuals and pastoral staff on ways to become even better stewards of what God has given. When visiting churches across the nation, he demonstrates ways to avoid unnecessary taxation, increase income using current assets, and provide a more effective inheritance. After counseling with many stressed-out believers, he now offers practical steps to bring stress back to a healthy level. For more information see: www.haroldmetzel.com or www.stressfreebelievers.com.

Grand Prize Giveaway

Stress-Free Believers Survival Kit

Stress-Free Believers Book
Stress-Free Believers Group Study DVD
Stress-Free Believers 5-CD Audio Book
Stress Relief Aromatherapy from Bath & Body Works
- 1.6 oz Filled Candle
- Travel-Size Body Wash & Foam Bath
- Travel-Size Body Lotion

Visit any of the following sites to enter the Grand Prize Giveaway:
Starts Monday, 9/12/11

Starts Tuesday, 9/13/11

Starts Wednesday, 9/14/11

Starts Thursday, 9/15/11

Friday, 9/16/11

GUEST POST: Sharen Pearson

2011-08-29T08:20:00.000-05:00

Simple Gifts

by Sharen Pearson

As a mother of five and now grandmother of seven, I’ve planned my share of Birthday events. I am a creative person, so my problem is “going over the top.” My expectations supersede those of the birthday child. So, I have to step back and say “who’s birthday is the anyway?” And, therein lies the key to a successful birthday party.

I recently assisted with my grandson, Waylon’s party. He was reaching that big-boy age of 5 years. He knew what theme he wanted: Herbie the Love Bug. He wanted a backyard campfire and a cake with Herbie on it. Simple—Herbie, campfire, cake. Got it! My daughter complied. She invited a few families from church that Waylon knew well and was comfortable around. Since entire families were represented, parents were there to help with crowd control. Bowls of chips and dip provided a place to gather around as people arrived. Children scattered to play in the back yard, parents grouped to watch and chat. Easy, huh? Daddy lit a small fire in the campfire ring in the yard. More talk, more easy playing. The cake was a simple giant chocolate chip cookie with a frosting “Herbie.” Waylon thought it was wonderful.

Mommy announced that it was gift-opening time and everyone pulled up lawn chairs and sat in family groups. Waylon sat in the middle of the circle on the grass and guests watched as he opened each gift and thanked the giver. He received many nice gifts, but to everyone’s delight, a small, inexpensive VW bug toy car was his favorite. He opened it, raised it above his head as if it were a trophy and yelled in delight. Waylon slept with his “Herbie;” woke up and greeted it; placed it on the edge of the tub so he could see it. He had the birthday he wanted. Simple party, simple gift, simple fun!

Some suggestions to consider when planning your party:

If your child is old enough to have input, allow it.
For ages 1-5 years, simple is best. Simple decorations, simple food, simple games.
Invite only one party guest per age of the child. Young children are very intimidated by many children of the same age. Remember, “Whose birthday is it?”
If guests include family/friends with older children, add activities especially for them.
Home is the best place for children ages 5 and under. Big party venues are confusing, scary and do not position the “birthday child” as the center of attention as he should be.

Some traps that parents fall into:

Making the party so complicated that you, as the parent, no longer enjoy it. (Been there, done that.)
Allowing young party guests to get close to and grab for gifts as as the birthday child is opening them. (Admit it, you’ve seen this haven’t you?)
Spending too much money. (Guilty as charged.)
Preparing food for adults and not age-appropriate to the guests. (The only thing to show off today is your wonderful child)
Engaging in sleepover parties before the age of 9 years. (Children younger than 9 or 10 years often find sleeping at someone else’s home frightening and uncomfortable.)

Sharen Pearson’s Goof & Giggle classes and materials continue to provide a quality Mom/Tot interaction. Widely popular, Goof & Giggle’s child-focused play plans are offered in various Arizona communities. She’s also created a variety of Goof Juice DVDs and filmed episodes of Baby D.I.Y. and written workbooks for BabyFirstTV. Arizona Midday (NBC) tapes monthly segments with Sharen to provide their audience with a variety of original and creative “easy to do” activities for babies and preschoolers. Sharen’s creativity reaches a combined audience over 200 million viewers worldwide. Goof & Giggle classes and products encourage green living, repurposing materials from around the house into affordable objects for play and learning. Learn more at: http://sharenpearson.com/

GUEST POST: Carla McDougal

2011-08-17T08:01:00.000-05:00

Back to School ... Pray!

By Carla McDougal

Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up.

Deuteronomy 6:5,7

Excitement’s in the air! Anticipation rises. It’s that time of year when the kids go back to school.

Who can forget watching your child go to "big school" for the first time? I remember those bittersweet moments as each of my four children kissed me good-bye. I always knew that day would arrive, but nothing prepared me for the moment.

Elementary school seemed to fly by and almost overnight they were in junior high and then high school. And in a blink of an eye, they were off to college. Where did the years go?

I learned early on that when my children were away from home, praying for them comforted me. By turning them over to God I experienced a calm peace. Year after year my prayers intensified, yet remained the same…

Elementary School – Will he make a friend? Will he eat all his lunch, or just the cookies and chips? God help him to love You with all his heart.
Junior/Senior High –Will he make the right friends? Is he paying attention to the teacher? God, help him love You with all his soul.
College - Will he make some forever friends? Is he making the right life decisions? God, help him to love You with all his strength.

Just as our children face challenges, we as moms face our own set of challenges…

To pray over our children no matter where they are in life.
To be on our knees for those God entrusted to us.
To ultimately pray for each child to love Jesus with all his heart, soul, and mind!
Finally, to let them know we are praying for them each day! What a blessing it is to pray for our children.

I ask you to take advantage of this new season too. Do you need a fresh start? Where are you in your relationship with God? In my Bible study, Reflecting Him – Living for Jesus and Loving It, I encourage you to find Jesus in your everyday activities. He is there for us 24 hours a day, and He wants to hear our everyday prayers!

Author Bio

CARLA MCDOUGAL is founder of Reflective Life Ministries headquartered in the Houston, Texas area. Her true passion for her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, shines brightly, whether she is speaking or writing. She shares experiences from her own life to encourage women to live every day for Him. God is sending Carla around the world to speak to women from all walks of life—those living in the best of circumstances to those who have hit rock bottom.

National Relaxation Day

2011-08-15T14:50:00.000-05:00

Often we ask someone we’re getting to know, “What do you enjoy doing in your free time?” The common response is to laugh and ask back, “What free time?” That’s the number one struggle we face today, not being able to relax. It’s such an epidemic that Monday, August 15th has been declared National Relaxation Day.

Tim Hansel wrote the book, When I Relax, I Feel Guilty, back in 1979. Yet here we are, decades later, fighting the same struggle. Is relaxation a part of God’s plan? And if so, why is it so hard for Christians to live in a state of rest, peace and contentment?

Dr. Charles W. Page, author of Surrendered Sleep: A Biblical Perspective, explains, “Relaxation happens as we understand that God provides for our needs (even as we sleep) if we obey His will for our lives on a daily basis. Being still and trusting God typically defies our logic and reasoning. Like drowning in quicksand, we think trying harder to get out will help. However, our pointless struggling only serves to suck us down deeper in the mire. We must learn to relax and allow God to deliver us.”

Let’s all make it a point to celebrate National Relaxation Day by taking something off our calendar, not cramming something extra into our busy day. Sometimes we need to give ourselves permission to relax. Relaxation is the key to reducing stress, and enjoying fewer sleep disorders.

Stress and financial concerns contribute to the inability to relax. Harold Metzel discussed this issue in his new book, Stress-Free Believers. He said, “Economic deterioration in this country, extending now throughout the whole world, has created a stress-producing engine which has given birth to near panic, even for Christians. When we add to that the “normal” stress we face in all other areas of life, we can feel crushed. That’s not God’s plan for those who walk with Him. Not only is it possible to live the abundant life that Jesus promised, it’s also within reach.”

According to the Relaxation Report survey, 74 percent of Americans said a lack of relaxation negatively impacts their physical and mental health. Relaxing is as necessary to balanced health as sleep and nutrition.

First we need to switch our mindset. Let’s not say we’re indulging in our “guilty pleasure.” We need to reframe our mind to see relaxation as a healthy activity, not something to send us on a guilt trip. When we determine to put away our multi-tasking projects every so often, we can learn to savor the moment. And isn’t that yet another form of praising God, to appreciate the blessings all around us?

Recruiting Avid Reader & Frequent Bloggers!

2011-08-12T09:30:00.000-05:00

We get jazzed providing great content from our clients (writers and speakers) to bloggers. We share opportunities for bloggers to participate in blog tours, book reviews, host guest bloggers and post free article content.

If you enjoy doing double duty as an avid reader and frequent blogger, you may want to consider being part of the KCWC blogger team. Here are some of the benefits:

FREE Books!
Helping other writers, who will often help you when it’s your turn
More writing credits if you write reviews
A vacation from writing on your blog for the day
Free article content
Assistance from KCWC to drive traffic to your site

When it comes time to tell you about specific blog opportunities, KCWC will send out newsy e-blasts inviting you to be a part of our blog tours and book reviews, as well as providing you with guest blogger articles for your site. If you want to participate, respond to the contact person mentioned in the e-blast and follow the directions outlined in the e-blast. If you do not want to participate in that particular opportunity, just disregard/delete. There is never any obligation—no automatic shipments, no minimum or maximum KCWC expects you to fulfill.

Here's what KCWC looks for in our bloggers:

A following. Do you show a good number on your follower list?
Good interaction. Does the comments section show good reader/blogger interaction?
Activity. Are there new posts at least 4 times each month? We prefer 12 times per month.
Social networking. Do you plug your blog post links on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, or to your mailing lists?
Diversity. Do you provide good content on your non-blog tour days, motivating your readers to visit frequently?
Personalization. Do you personalize blog tours to make them fit your readership?
Book Reviews. Besides your blog activity, are you willing to post a review at one of the online bookstores such as Amazon?
Quality Content. Do your views represent a Christian worldview? We look for well-written posts, well thought-out opinions, and wholesome conduct on your blog.

If you want to be considered for this opportunity, send us an email with your blog address.

Russ@kathycarltonwillis.com

Here are some links to a few articles about blog tours:

KCW Speaks about Blog Tours

What Are Blog Tours?

Book Promotion Via Blogs Part 1

Book Promotion Via Blogs Part 2

Setting and Straying from Your Brand

2011-07-20T09:01:00.000-05:00

Branding is even more about defining the essence of a writer than it is defining the niche or genre. We all leave an imprint on others—some of us do this in a strategic way while others leave a message without meaning to. So why not be intentional?

Why is it some can write different types of books and be consistent to their brand and others seem to be disloyal to their readers by branching out? It all depends on voice. Does the voice match the brand?

For example: Liz Curtis Higgs. I just talked with her at ICRS and told her “I use you as an example in my marketing classes. I own a publicity firm and teach branding. I explain that writers don’t have to declare a niche but they have to be true to their writing essence. Even though you write fiction, nonfiction, Bible Studies and children’s books, your voice is consistent in each work. I see and hear Liz Curtis Higgs in every piece I read by you. You have no idea what a relief that is to writers who are so confused by the industry push to get branded into just one little box.” We had a good discussion about this topic. Then I told her, “When you are true to your voice, that’s the best brand of all, because it’s the imprint God wants you to leave.”

But then there’s John Grisham. His readers expect legal suspense. And he’s good at it. Made his money with this point of view. Any time he veers from this identity, some of his loyal readers feel betrayed. They don’t get what they are looking for in between the covers. They find a confused voice. Others have loved it. Is it worth it to take the risk? He can get away with it because if only 25% of his loyal readers buy his books when he strays from his brand, that’s still a big seller, but can a regular writer afford to only sell 25% of their normal book sales if they depart from their brand?

My advice to writers setting up a brand is to create a think tank or wisdom team and conduct a survey. Make sure it’s a variety of people who know you well (in the industry, in ministry, from your target audience, family and friends). Ask them to give you some key words that best describe your essence (as a person, in your writing, in your speaking, in your ministry, etc.). Pay attention to the words that pop up on several lists. Try to capture those descriptor words in your brand, and also make sure it has a “deliverable” quality to it. Those paying attention to your brand have a WII-FM mentality (What’s In It For Me). For me, the words “light” and “shine” kept popping up for what I bring through KCW Communications, as well as my writing and speaking. So I’ve created my taglines and brand around that impression. That way, people know my voice, and know what I bring to the table when they connect with me.

Brand combines voice, style, audience, content, tagline, logo, style, colors, and more. It’s that overall impression you make (strategic) or leave (accidental).

The industry DOES want your brand—your voice—to speak to certain groups. It’s easier to sell to niche markets than to general markets. It’s better to categorize you as a certain TYPE of writer, and then set you up as a go-to-writer in those genres or categories. Once you are established, and you think you can be true to your voice, then you can branch out. Let your brand be your filter so you know what projects are a good fit, and which ones to pass up.

Shine On!
Kathy Carlton Willis (KCW Communications)
Someone to Shine the Light on You
www.kathycarltonwillis.com

GUEST POST: Carol Topp

2011-07-04T06:00:00.002-05:00

Carol Topp

Celebrate Independence:

Start a Micro Business!

By Carol Topp, CPA

The Fourth of July is a time to celebrate our country's independence and appreciate our freedoms as Americans to follow our dreams. This is a great time to encourage our children, especially teenagers, to cherish their freedoms. Not every country in the world allows a teenager to have as many freedoms and opportunities as the United States. One important area of freedom that our children probably take for granted is the freedom to become whatever they want to be, which includes starting a business.

My 16 year old daughter, Sarah, was introduced to a man who grew up in East Germany. He described his youth where he had no choice in what he would study in high school or what career he would have. He was assigned to a technical high school where he learned science and math. There was no consideration of his abilities or talents. Sarah began to appreciate her country in a new way. She has an artistic bent and would have hated being forced into a math and science-oriented high school. Instead, she has been allowed to purse her love of art and photography.

Sarah celebrated her independence by starting a micro business. She used her interest in photography to take senior pictures of a few friends. More friends saw her work and hired her for their senior pictures. She was kept quite busy for several weeks and grew in her skills and business knowledge. It is quite easy for a teenager to start a very small business—a micro business—and learn a lot while making some money.

A teenage micro business owner will learn business skills such as marketing, customer service and salesmanship, but they will learn also life skills such as time management, planning and careful use of money. As a parent you will see them develop confidence, responsibility and the ability to overcome fear as they face new challenges in running a business.

We should encourage any spark of entrepreneurial spirit we see in our children because it helps them grow in many ways, but it is also good for our country. Small business ownership is the backbone of our economy, paying 44% of the total US private payroll.[1] But not only are small businesses responsible for America's wealth, they encourage free enterprise, responsibility and leadership.

The GrasshopperGroup has produced a short video, “Entrepreneurs Can Change The World,” that inspires us to remember the entrepreneurial spirit on which our country was built. You can view the video at YouTube and it says, in part:

“In case you haven't noticed, we live in a place where one individual can make a difference. Want proof? Just look at the people who built our country: our parents, grandparents, our aunts, our uncles. They were immigrants, newcomers ready to make their mark. Maybe they came with very little; or perhaps they didn't own anything except a single brilliant idea. These people were thinkers, doers and innovators until they came up with the name entrepreneurs.”[2]

Remember the freedoms we have in America this Fourth of July, and especially the precious freedom to work for ourselves, start a business and follow a dream. Encourage your teenager to exercise their freedom by starting a micro business.

[1] Consortium for Entrepreneurship Education http://Entre-Ed.org

[2] http://www.youtube.com/user/GetGrasshopper

Carol Topp, CPA advises teenage business owners though her Micro Business for Teens book series. Carol’s day job is accountant to business owners, and she enjoys teaching teenagers to succeed beyond their dreams. Students appreciate how she shares what they need to know in clear and helpful lessons. Her website is MicroBusinessForTeens.com

GUEST POST: Anita Agers-Brooks

2011-07-01T07:24:00.001-05:00

I Look Like My Daddy

by Anita Agers-Brooks

I am illegitimate, but I am not an accident. And no matter how you came to exist, neither are you.

I was forty-six years old, when through a dramatic series of events, I found out Dad, the man who raised me, isn’t my biological father. My identity is surrounded by mystery, but I know exactly who I am.

In the grief-drenched days, after I received DNA results confirming Dad isn’t my birth-father, I went to the Bible for comfort. My tears stained the pages when I read, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart.” (Jeremiah 1:5). I sobbed over God’s promise to be, “A father to the fatherless.” (Psalm 68:5).

A dear friend said in response to my story. “God sure must have wanted you. He went to a lot of trouble to create you especially who you are.”

I’ve learned she is right. I am not an accident.

There are six powerful things I discovered while the mystery unraveled:

1. I belong to God, no matter how I was conceived.

2. I exist to glorify Him by becoming the person I was meant to be.

3. I can go to His Word, and His people, to get more information.

4. I found my life’s purpose by asking Him to reveal my unique destiny.

5. I decided in a single moment never to give up.

6. I started by taking one step. Then one more. And another, and then another.

God knitted me together on purpose, with purpose, to fulfill a purpose. My unique DNA combination makes me especially qualified to do the work He planned for me before I was even born. I am wanted, because my Daddy-God adopted me. I am beautiful, because I look like my Daddy-God. I am the daughter of the King of Kings, which makes me a princess. I am secure in my identity, which is found in Christ alone.

But my story isn’t all about me. My story is also about you.

No matter how you started, or where you are today, you are meant for abundant life. You can live the dream God planted in your heart when He set you in the soil of your mother’s womb. You are not an accident. You know who you are. You look like your Daddy.

Anita Agers-Brooks is on a mission to find her biological father. On her journey, she shares God’s message as a Communications Specialist, Certified Personality Trainer, public speaker, and writer. Anita lives in Missouri with her husband Ricky. Contact her via website www.freshstartfreshfaith.org or email anita.freshfaith@gmail.com

GUEST POST: Carla McDougal

2011-06-23T06:00:00.001-05:00

Carla McDougal

Today is National

"Let It Go" Day!

LETTING GO

By Carla McDougal

Do you remember the last time you opened the door to your junk closet? You know, the place where you put things you don’t want left out in the open. Maybe an item is old and worn out, so you throw it in this closet. Or, possibly it’s broken, and you don’t know what to do with it.

In my Bible Study, Reflecting Him, I invite readers to take a guided tour through various rooms in our homes, and compare these areas to our spiritual lives. The first day of the tour focuses on the closet—that hidden, dark place no one enters but you. “Out of sight, out of mind” might describe those items tucked away in that small space; but couldn’t the phrase also depict the things we hide in the backs of our minds and hearts? Broken, worn out, or sinful thoughts weigh heavily on our souls, and we need to let go, so they can be replaced by God’s light of love, grace and mercy. June 23rd is National “Let It Go” Day. I encourage you to find something in your spiritual “junk closet” and let it go.

Do you harbor bitterness for past hurts against you? Does sin linger in the crevices of your heart and mind? Are you in need of God’s forgiveness? We are all sinners, but we can be free from the closet of sin if we confess and ask for His forgiveness. Let go, and let God shine His light on you.

Just like cleaning out the junk closet, once you let go of those spiritual messes in your life, you’ll be left with room for the new. God’s all about making things new. A new heart. A new life. A new you. It all starts with letting go of those things that fall short of His plan.

When you organize a junk closet, you might choose to use special organizers or aids to make it all work together better. Or perhaps you even hire a professional organizer. In your spiritual closet, don’t forget that you can find all the assistance you’ll ever need through the help of the Holy Spirit and God’s Word.

Are you ready to let God take the tour through the various rooms of your spiritual “house”? When you open the closet, what mess falls out? Give it to Him and see what happens!

CARLA MCDOUGAL is founder of Reflective Life Ministries headquartered in the Houston, Texas area. Her true passion for her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, shines brightly, whether she is speaking or writing. She shares experiences from her own life to encourage women to live every day for Him. God is sending Carla around the world to speak to women from all walks of life—those living in the best of circumstances to those who have hit rock bottom. Carla’s book, Reflecting Him: Living for Jesus and Loving It, pulls back the veil so you can see yourself and your Lord more clearly and reflect Him with transparency when interacting with others. This 10-week study exposes the dark corners of your life, opening your eyes and heart to what Jesus wants you to see. Carla’s refreshing authenticity and humorous style will lift you up from a heaviness you didn’t even know weighed you down.

GUEST POST: Carol Topp

2011-06-21T06:00:00.001-05:00

Carol Tipp

Today is the First Day of Summer!

Is Your Teenager Wasting His Summer?

by Carol Topp

Summer is a great time for a teenager to earn some money working a temporary job, but most jobs are a waste of time. Summer jobs are usually low-skill jobs with tedious tasks like running a cash register or cleaning up bits of paper at an amusement park. These jobs pay poorly and do not usually offer any paths to advance or grow. They do nothing to help a teenager develop his gifts or prepare him for a future career. The best that can be said about a summer job is that it keeps a teenager busy and pays him a bit of money.

What if there was a way for your teenager to make some money, learn a lot and test a future career this summer? It would be a much better use of his time. What if your teenager learned time management, practiced math and writing skills, and grew in confidence and responsibility? That would be a very rewarding summer.

Instead of telling your teenager to get a job, encourage him to start a micro business. A micro business is a one-person business that can be started easily, usually without any up-front cash, using what a teenager already owns. Micro businesses are usually home-based and very flexible so a busy student can keep up with other interests, sports and a social life.

Teenagers can use their skills to develop businesses such as teaching guitar lessons, doing web design or caring for children. Some teenagers have started micro businesses by offering services such as house cleaning, pet care, and lawn mowing. One easy-to-start micro business is tutoring. Students can tutor math, Spanish, computer programs or any subject that they are good at.

The quickest way to get your teenager started is to look for a need he can fill such as teaching a subject he knows well. Edgar is bi-lingual, since his family speaks Spanish in their home. He is tutoring another student in Spanish as a micro business.

Other teenagers can turn their interests into a micro business. Kristin combined her love of reading and childcare. She assembled a small group of children one morning a week and in a two hour block of time read them a story, planned a craft, and fed them a snack. She charged $5 per child per week and conducted a six-week mini-camp one summer. It was so popular, she offered an afternoon reading camp as well.

One benefit of running a micro business during the summer over working a job is that a teenager can try out an idea and see if they want to pursue it as a career. Joel has a talent for computer web design. He is teaching himself software like InDesign and makes money by creating buttons and banners for websites. His web design micro business will help Joel determine if her wants to be a full time graphic designer. Meanwhile he is learning time management and customer service skills while getting paid.

So don't saddle your teenager with another summer of working a boring, tedious job that offers no challenges or opportunities for growth. Instead, encourage him to have his best summer yet by starting a micro business.

Carol Topp, CPA advises teenage business owners though her Micro Business for Teens book series. Carol’s day job is accountant to business owners, and she enjoys teaching teenagers to succeed beyond their dreams. Students appreciate how she shares what they need to know in clear and helpful lessons. Her website is MicroBusinessForTeens.com.

GUEST POST: Dr. Charles W. Page

2011-06-17T06:00:00.006-05:00

Dr. Charles W. Page

Do Dads Ever Sleep?

Considering the pace of our modern world—dads probably shouldn’t sleep. Who’s got time?

Unpaid bills.
Undone tasks.
Unrealistic deadlines.
Untimely interruptions.

Even when fathers prepare for rest there are too many thoughts racing through a dad’s mind:

Unkept promises.
Unfamiliar circumstances.
Unpredictable people.
Unforgotten failures.

Sometimes in sleepless desperation dads can feel like throwing in the towel—wondering if they will ever be good enough to meet the challenge of living in our nanosecond culture.

Instead of looking around at the challenges facing them or within at their own inadequacies, dads must learn to look up. When we look up toward our Heavenly Father, the whole equation changes:

Unchanging God.
Unsearchable wisdom.
Undeserving grace.
Unfathomable love.

Christian dads can sleep because God’s got their back. Dads who understand that God’s eyes never close can rest in calm assurance as they lie down to sleep (Psalm 121:1-6). God’s got your back, Dad and He never slumbers or sleeps. And if God’s staying up anyway there’s no reason why you should miss out on rest. As we look up to God our helper we are reminded of several truths that give our hearts calm assurance as we lay our heads on our pillows.

Trust in God’s providence as we lie down to sleep.
Whatever circumstances we face—they pass through the hands of a loving, all knowing God.
Trust in God’s provision as we lie down to sleep.
For most dads the greatest challenge is the “to do” lists that burden our minds as we lie down for rest. As dads we must learn to trust God to finish the things left undone in His way and in His time.
Trust in God’s protection as we lie down to sleep.
Dad, you can rely on God to surround you and your family with a hedge of protection as you rest. Psalm 121 reminds us that God is watching or guarding our lives—day and night. The one who never slumbers or sleeps has your back while you close your eyes for rest.

Your Heavenly Father always knows best, allowing you to rest in the truth of the verse “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). As you close your eyes for sleep, you can trust in God’s providence, provision and protection. Allow God to do for you what you cannot do for yourself while awake. The One whose eyes never close in slumber created you to surrender. Fall to sleep in His arms.

Dr. Charles Page is a sleep-deprived surgeon who completed medical school and residency at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas. He and his wife Joanna live in Texas with their five children. He is the author of Surrendered Sleep: A Biblical Perspective, which releases later this summer. When the project goes live, you can find more information at www.surrenderedsleep.com.

Patchwork Dreams Tour Sites

2011-06-08T06:00:00.001-05:00

Patchwork Dreams

Blog Tour - June 6-10

The following bloggers are participating in the Patchwork Dreams Blog Tour:

Broken Teepee
Confessions of a Psychotic Housewife
Real Heart Prints
Reviews by Molly
A Path of Joy
Acting Balanced
Ziggy's Blogs
Giveaway Gal
Ashley's Bookshelf
Real Life Deals
The Life and Times of a PWNMOM
Faith Creativity Life
A Candle in the Dark
Arms of a Sister
Heart2Heart
My Heart Belongs to Books
A Room Without Books Is Empty
Why Didn't You Warn Me
Getting All My Ducks in a Row
Reflections in Hindsight
Sarah's Blog of Fun
PS Mom Reviews
Farming on Faith
My Red Apron
Practical Frugality

BLOG TOUR: Patchwork Dreams

2011-06-07T11:54:00.000-05:00

Patchwork Dreams

Author: Laura V. Hilton

Publisher: Whitaker House

ISBN-10: 1603742557

ISBN-13: 978-1603742559

Release Date: April 5, 2011

Paperback: 144 pages

Retail: $6.99

Book Summary

Becky Troyer has committed the ultimate sin, and finds herself on the edge of her Amish community. Jacob Miller believes he was sent to the Old Order Community in Missouri to help out a distant cousin. Instead, he discovers he was part of an arranged swap—sending men from his Pennsylvania district to the Missouri district to bring new blood into the Amish community. Becky dreams of marriage, but doesn't dare hope that anyone would choose her—not with her history. Can God use the lies that have affected Becky and Jacob to bring them together? Or will Jacob rebel and head home to his first love?

Author Bio
Laura Hilton graduated with a business degree from Ozarka Technical College in Melbourne, Arkansas. A member of the American Christian Fiction Writers, she is a professional book reviewer for the Christian market, with more than a thousand reviews published on the Web. Prior to Patchwork Dreams, she published two novels with Treble Heart Books: Hot Chocolate and Shadows of the Past, as well as several devotionals. Laura and her husband, Steve, have five children, whom Laura homeschools. The family makes their home in Arkansas. To learn more about Laura, read her reviews, and find out about her upcoming releases, visit her blog at http://lighthouse–academy.blogspot.com/.

An Interview With Laura:

How has being published changed your life?
Well there’s a lot of administrative stuff that I didn’t know about beforehand. And a lot of things that take me out of my comfort zone. I’m naturally a shy quiet and private person, and suddenly I have to be more willing to talk about what I’m doing.

What is your current work in progress?
I am starting the third book in the Amish of Seymour series, which will be Becky’s friend, Annie’s story.

What would be your dream vacation?
Oh, well, I would love to spend a month or two in Michigan (our whole family loves Michigan and we missed it when we moved away) and just poke around the lighthouses, waterfalls, etc. that make the state great. Also, if I ever have a chance to go overseas, I would love to see Big Ben and visit some of the European castles. Also, I’d love an extended stay at an Amish bed and breakfast.

How do you choose your settings for each book?
Well, most Amish books are set in Ohio and Pennsylvania because that is where the largest communities are. I chose to set mine in Seymour, Missouri, because there is an Amish community there. Missouri is an untapped setting for Amish stories, and it was close enough for me to drive up there for research.

If you could spend an evening with one person who is currently alive, who would it be and why?
Oh, Beverly Lewis. When I grow up I want to write like her. I’d love to talk writing with her.

What is your most difficult writing obstacle, and how do you overcome it?
My most difficult obstacle was trying to write in the living room with five children! I’ve gotten pretty good at blocking out noises though. Unless the children are fighting or crying I can work through it.

GRAND PRIZE

GIVEAWAY

Amish Gift Set

$50 Value

* 1 apple mug
* 1 apple scented candle in decorative tin
* 1 small packet of Starbucks coffee
* Amish made rose petal soap
* Beverly Lewis' Amish Cookbook
* Simple Joys of the Amish Life by Mindy Starns Clark
* $5.00 McDonald's Gift Card
* Amish Popcorn

* Autographed copy of Patchwork Dreams

To enter the giveaway, leave a comment at any tour participants blog by June 17, 2011—full list will appear tomorrow (6/8/11).

NOTE: Comments left at the KCWC company blog are not eligible for prize.

Interview with Author Eddie "Davey" Jones

2011-05-26T06:00:00.029-05:00

Eddie Jones won the Selah award at Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference, May 2011, in the YA Fiction category for The Curse of Captain LaFoote.

Tell us about The Curse of Captain LaFoote.

EDDIE: When my boys were young, I'd tell pirate stores on the bow of our sailboat. The lead character was Captain Stinky Foot. Captain Stinky Foot was named after my youngest son. If you've ever spent any time on a boat in August with a crew of unwashed young males then this needs no further explanation. I've always been fascinated by the stories of boys snatched away from London and Bristol and forced to serve before the mast. Seems to me life at sea was more fun than peeling potatoes. And more dangerous.

So The Curse of Captain LaFoote is a pirate tale awash in buried treasure, romance and dead men's bones. The truth is, this book and the ones that follow in the Caribbean Chronicle series are love stories. For Ricky Bradshaw, the hero of the book, the story is a quest to find his father, soul mate, and purpose in life.

What is your lead’s wound?

EDDIE: A friend suggested that I let my lead have epilepsy. She said when she has an episode she sort of zones out—like daydreaming except she can’t stop it. She also said she knows when it’s about to happen. That she smells something like burning wires. So I gave Ricky epilepsy and finished the story.

It wasn’t until much later that I realized the book had a larger purpose. I met another woman at a writer’s conference whose son has epilepsy. During the conference, her son suffered a seizure — the first one he’d ever had without his mother present. The look on her face that morning convinced me that Ricky Bradshaw could be a champion for those suffering from epilepsy.

It’s not cancer or heart disease but over three million Americans live with epilepsy. If the sale of this book can raise awareness, then the book has done its job. For each book sold, the publisher and I will donate “a few pieces of eight” — half a sandy dollar — to the foundation’s Heroes Among Us program. Our goal is to raise ten thousand dollars in honor of Ricky Bradshaw.

What is the spiritual message in your book?

EDDIE: That courage cost. Near the end of the book Ricky has the chance to go back to his old life. We get to do the same thing, go back to our old way of doing things. But Christ says there is a cost for doing the right thing. Ricky faces that choice.

What takeaway value do you hope readers receive after reading this novel?

EDDIE: There are a lot of other deep and important themes explored in the book too. Things like what the poop deck is and why cruise ships no longer use them, the secrets inside Davy Jones' locker, and why you shouldn't walk downwind of a pirate who's just eaten turtle soup.

Seriously, my goal in writing this book was to spur the imagination of young readers. Boys especially. I wanted to create within them a desire to read and set sail for a life of adventure, wherever that journey may take them. Even now I can see Ricky standing on the sugar-white sands of that island just south of Hispaniola. I am that boy. And so are a lot of other boys.

The Curse of Captain LaFoote Video Trailer

2011-05-25T06:00:00.001-05:00

Yesterday, I posted our current KCWC Blog Tour—The Curse of Captain LaFoote. The video trailer for the book is definitely worth a look:

BLOG TOUR: The Curse of Captain LaFoote

2011-05-24T11:10:00.000-05:00

If you drowned and the sea spit you out,

thrusting you back into an age of pirates,

buried treasure and beauty beyond belief…

would you stay?

Take the Adventure...

If You Dare!

Captain LaFoote Blog Tour

May 23-27

The Curse of Captain LaFoote

A Young Adult/Tween novel

Port Yonder Press

ISBN-10: 1935600044

ISBN-13: 978-1935600046

Paperback - 266 pages

Retail: $9.95

RICKY BRADSHAW has never sailed the Caribbean Sea, searched for buried treasure or battled pirates on the deck of a Spanish Galleon. He’s never fallen through the floor of Davy Jones’ locker or watched an old fisherman morph into a porpoise. All Ricky knows is his lonely life with his widowed mom in a tiny apartment overlooking the Chesapeake Bay. But all that changes on a snowy Christmas Eve when Ricky’s apartment building burns down and he suffers a seizure, falling into the chilly waters. Suddenly Ricky finds himself thrust into a world where there is surprising beauty on every island, danger around every corner and great honor and glory ahead of him—if only Ricky can summon the courage to survive the curse of Captain LaFoote.

Author Bio

EDDIE JONES has authored four non-fiction books, one young adult novel, and written over a hundred articles that have appeared in over 20 different publications. He is co-founder of Christian Devotions Ministries and a contributing writer for, CBN.com, Common Ground Christian News, The Ocracoke Observer, and Living Aboard Magazine. He’s a three-time winner of the Delaware Christian Writers Conference and a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers and Boating Writers International. Eddie sails, surfs and writes in North Carolina. For more information see: http://www.captainlafoote.com/.

Grand Prize Giveaway

All you need for a PIRATE PARTY

8 invitations
8 - 9" party plates
8 - 9-oz. cups
16 luncheon napkins
16 pc. blue cutlery set
1 red plastic table cover
2 rolls of streamers, 1 blue and 1 red
12 each of blue and red balloons
2 pkgs. of confetti, 1 blue and 1 orange
4 yds. deluxe creepy cloth
12 pirate swords with eye patch
72 pirate tattoos
8 dessert plates
16 beverage napkins
8 treasure chest-shaped filled treat boxes
1 10 ft. pennant
12 child-size pirate hats
1 photo door banner
1 piñata and toy & candy asst.
ENTER THE GIVEAWAY AT ONE OF THE FOLLOWING TOUR LOCATIONS:

Alas 3 Lads
Come Meet Aus Jenny
Mustard Seed Book Reviews
Over a Cuppa Tea
Proverbs 31 Living
The Daily Grind
A Path of Joy
Adventurous Living
Be Your Best Mom
Carly Bird's Home
Growing for Christ
Lynn Dove's Journey Thoughts
Real Life Deals
Sky High Views
Jendi's Journal
My Handmade Life
Homeschool Reviews and More
In the Pages
Lighthouse Academy
Mama's Money Savers
Sherrie's Books
Scamp's Place
Getting All My Ducks in a Row
PS Mom Reviews
The Life (an Lies) of an Inanimate Object
The Writer's Tool
Heart of a Bookworm
My Heart Belongs 2 Books
Pinprick of Light
Seize the Book
The Law, Books and Life
The Life and Times of a PWN Mom

New Ministry Partnership Expands Possibilities

2011-05-11T06:26:00.000-05:00

(Brenham, TX — May 5, 2011) Christian Devotions Ministries and Kathy Carlton Willis Communications join forces to provide new opportunities for Christian writers. We aim to make sure the message is clear through our devotions, radio programs and books. And now KCWC is getting the word out so the ministry touches even more people.

The mission of Christian Devotions is two-fold: First, to provide personal and relatable devotions for those who may not otherwise be exposed to the Word of God. Second, to promote Christian writing, publishing and reading. Our writers include famous authors as well as new writers with a voice, message and passion for tithing their talents.

Kathy Carlton Willis Communications will come alongside of CDM to get the word out about each endeavor. KCWC is donating $7,250 of in-kind services per year, including radio programming, social networking, training, and six blog tours per year to CDM’s book publishing wing, Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas.

CDM co-founder, Eddie Jones, said, "For years we've prayed for a marketing partner to come alongside Christian Devotions and help us spread the news of our ministry. The staff and board of directors at Christian Devotions feels Kathy is a true God-send. Her skill, connections and servant's heart is a perfect fit for our mission and we strive to expand our reach and enlarge our territory for Him. Kathy's help is priceless and eternal."  

Kathy shares, “KCWC is dedicated to serve-it-forward by assisting ministries we believe in through donating in-kind services. We’ve observed Christian Devotions Ministries for a couple of years now and wanted to be a part of it. Eddie e-mailed me on a different subject and I asked if his group could use some volunteer promotional assistance. They’d been praying for God to send them a marketing pro. One of those unions made in heaven.”

Bringing Kathy Carlton Willis Communications and Christian Devotions Ministries together combines the strengths of two business-ministries to accomplish great things for the Kingdom of God. The hearts of both CDM and KCWC beat with the intent to reach and disciple this generation using the tools and technology available today.

To learn more about Christian Devotions Ministries, visit www.ChristianDevotions.us.

Goof and Giggle

2011-05-04T07:28:00.000-05:00

LOOKING FOR A LITTLE HELP WITH

Children's Ministry? Sunday School?

Mother's Day Out? MOPS?

Daycare? Preschool?

Pastor's wife Sharen Pearson offers a unique perspective to church ministries looking to expand or enhance their children's programs. Her widely popular Good & Giggle classes and materials are offered in various Arizona communities. She’s also created a variety of Goof Juice DVDs and filmed episodes of Baby D.I.Y. and written workbooks for BabyFirstTV. Arizona Midday (NBC) tapes monthly segments with Sharen to provide their audience with a variety of original and creative “easy to do” activities for babies and preschoolers. She’s presented workshops and programs for such venues as: children’s museums, malls, early childhood conferences, mother’s groups, and “Prevent Child Abuse” trainings. Groups are booking her for training, inspirational messages and consultations. She coaches volunteers and paid staff on working with children, and offers interactive programs for parents with their children. You will find her approach refreshing, practical and affordable. In fact, many of the props she uses for teaching tools are repurposed or recycled from everyday materials. If you are interested in learning more about Sharen's programs and products, you can view Sharen's one sheet HERE or contact KCWC.

Work, Pray, Sleep

2011-05-03T12:34:00.000-05:00

KCWC is currently offering books for review with the theme WORK, PRAY, SLEEP. If you would like to be part of our review team, email Russ.

WORK with Carol Topp

Starting a Micro Business will help teenagers earn money while learning how to start their own business. This book offers ideas, a business plan, starting with no debt, pitfalls to avoid and resources to get a teenager started making money running their own micro business.

Running a Micro Business will help teenagers successfully manage their own micro business. It discusses sales, marketing, customer services, record keeping, bookkeeping, insurance & time management.

PRAY with Carla McDougal
Reflecting Him: Living for Jesus and Loving It is a ten-week Bible study that encourages women to see God's life lesson throughout their day. A detailed look at a potter and his wheel gives new insights to the creation of man. Open your eyes to see how God uses daily, mundane experiences to teach spiritual truths. As Jesus becomes part of eveything you do, you will be reflecting Him in ways you never dreamed possible.

SLEEP with Dr. Charles Page
Surrendered Sleep approaches insomnia from a biblical perspective and exposes several heart attitudes you may experience in your journey for rest. These attitudes may not only affect the way you sleep but also the way you relate to God. Dr. Page will challenge you to wrap your mind around the concept of a God who is just as active during your sleep—or sleeplessness as during your wakeful hours.

KCWC Blog Tours

2011-04-28T10:34:00.000-05:00

Below are two upcoming KCWC Blog Tours. They are both full, but you may enjoy adding them to your stack of books to read.

Captain LaFoote Blog Tour - May 23-27

Patchwork Dreams - June 6-10

A New Responsibility - Blogging

2011-04-20T06:00:00.012-05:00

Fresh off three sessions on blogging taught by Michelle Rayburn at the Quad Cities Christian Writers Conference in Eldridge, Iowa, I am taking over the responsibility of the KCWC company blog. There won't be much change in content—we will continue to feature authors, books and instructional articles for writers. You may notice more frequent posts as I do the "grunt work" of transferring Kathy's love of writing and writers to the blogging world. The ride may be a little bumpy at first, but hopefully I will get the hang of it quickly and it will be worth your stopping by for a browse.

Russ

The last two days, we have featured author Carol Topp. We just finished her blog tour and will announce the winner of her grand prize on Monday, April 25—she is offering the complete set of her Micro Business for Teens Series.

If you have not entered and would like to do so, simply leave a comment on one of the blog tour hosts sites:

ausjenny.blogspot.com
berlysue.blogspot.com
beyourbestmom.blogspot.com
cleffairy.com
favchristianbooks.com
giveawaygal.blogspot.com
giveuadaisyaday.blogspot.com
godusesbrokenvessels.blogspot.com
heidi-strawser.blogspot.com
homeschoolblogger.com/kristenph
homeschoolblogger.com/OhioSarah
homeschoolducks.blogspot.com
ladyd-books.blogspot.com
lighthouse-academy.blogspot.com
myheartbelongs2books.blogspot.com
proverbs31living.blogspot.com
reallifedeals.com
reflectionsinhindsight.wordpress.com
seizethebookblog.blogspot.com
spelloutloud.com
torconbooks.com
ourbusyhomeschool.blogspot.com
xaivierchia.blogspot.com

Spring Cleaning: A Time for a Teenagers to Make Money by Carol Topp

2011-04-19T06:00:00.103-05:00

Most people see spring as a time to declutter, clean out and recycle our unneeded stuff—but it is also a great opportunity for a teenager to make some money. There are several micro businesses a teenager can start by helping people with spring cleaning.

A micro business is a one-person business that can be started easily, usually without any up-front cash, using equipment that a teenager already owns. Micro businesses are usually very flexible so a busy student can keep up with homework, sports, and a social life while still earning some extra money. They may be temporary, only lasting a few weeks. On top of that, micro businesses are easy to start and easy to close down.

Here are some ideas for a micro business a teenager can start this spring:

House cleaning: Offer to tackle large jobs like washing windows, moving furniture, etc. Many people are grateful for a young, strong teenager to help them with heavy lifting. What is easy for you might be very difficult for them, especially if they are an older person.
Routine house cleaning: Some customers need regular house cleaning and may hire you on a weekly or monthly basis. Don't wait for them to ask: offer to come weekly or twice a month and see what they say.
Attic cleaning: Offer to help people do a job that they put off, such as cleaning an attic.
Garage cleaning: A big job that can earn you big bucks!
Yard cleanup: Offer to trim bushes, pull weeds, plant flowers and spread mulch to spruce up a yard.
Car and van cleaning: People spend a lot of time in their automobiles and their cars and vans need frequent cleaning. Melissa gladly paid to get her van cleaned inside and out every week because her four children could really make a mess in it. You can make some cash by offering to clean a van inside and out.
Organize: Organize a house, playroom or garage. Charge the customer for any bins, tubs and labels that you purchase for them and then add on the value of your time. Take before and after photos to use on your advertising fliers.
Declutter: Do you love HGTV shows on organization? You might be able to find someone to hire you to declutter their house like you see on TV.
Garage sales: Advertise, organize and run a garage sale for your neighbors. Get several neighbors to participate together and really earn the bucks!
eBay sales: Offer to sell your neighbors' stuff on eBay and take a cut for yourself. Combine the decluttering, garage sale and eBay tasks into a full package to help your customers profit from their excess stuff.

Do not be too hasty to reject some of these ideas. No one likes any job that has the word “cleaning” in it, but you will not be doing it for the rest of your life. A micro business based on spring cleaning does not have to last long—a lot of money can be earned in a few weeks. It may take a bit of planning to be ready to work when the first signs of spring start.

TIPS TO GET STARTED:

Choose what you will offer: cleaning, decluttering, full packages, etc.
Who will be your customers? Think of places that people gather and see them as potential customers. Focus on your neighborhood, your church, or families from your sports team. Make a list of neighbors, friends, teachers, your parents' friends, etc.
Conduct a market survey. Start by asking a few potential customers if they need your service and what price they are willing to pay.
Decide on a price. From the market survey, you should be able to set a fair price. You may get your first customers by undercharging the competition. One teenager charged half what other house cleaners were paid and quickly had several customers.
Volunteer to do a few jobs for free to practice your skills and to build a reputation. Use recommendations from these jobs in your advertising.
Launch your first advertising campaign. Try to use free advertising such as emails, on-line forums, Facebook posts, and handing out fliers to friends and neighbors. Be sure to include several ways to contact you, including email and phone numbers.

Many people are very happy to hire teenagers for spring cleaning jobs. Start advertising your micro business services now and be ready when spring arrives.

Starting a Micro Business for Teens

2011-04-18T16:51:00.015-05:00

(Cincinnati, OH) With unemployment rates high, the teen population is finding it harder and harder to find work. Adults are competing for the same minimum wage jobs. But there’s an alternative—starting a micro business. What is a micro business? It is a very small, one-person business that you can start easily and quickly with what you already know or own. No money needed, low risk and no debt! Students can spend as much time running a micro business as they wish and can even close it down during busy times. The best advantage for teens to own a micro business is that it not only brings in extra cash (often more than imagined), but students end up learning a great deal about business, money and themselves. It may lead to an entrepreneurial life or at the very least, prepare students for higher learning opportunities.

Starting a Micro Business will help teenagers earn money while learning how to start their own business. A micro business is simple to start, usually home-based, low risk, educational and easy for a busy student to run. This book offers ideas, a business plan, starting with no debt, pitfalls to avoid and resources to get a teenager started making money running their own micro business.

Carol Topp, CPA advises teenage business owners though her Micro Business for Teens book series. Carol’s day job is accountant to business owners, and she enjoys teaching teenagers to succeed beyond their dreams. Students appreciate how she shares what they need to know in clear and helpful lessons. Her website is MicroBusinessForTeens.com

Kick Start Your Dreams By Kathi Lipp

2011-02-21T20:14:00.000-06:00

Three Super-Simple Kick Starts
To Living Your Dreams
– in the next 15 minutes

by Kathi Lipp

Is there a dream that God has given you, but you are waiting until the kids are grown and you have money in the bank before you get started?

You may not be able to enroll in a month long pastry making class or take a week off of work to get started on your novel, but today you can take three little baby steps to making your dream a day-to-day reality.

1. Go Public with It

It’s a little scary to tell the world what you want to do when you grow up—but this is one little step could get you closer to living your dream than almost any other. Plus—it takes very little time and you don’t have to raid your kid’s college fund to make it happen.

When you gather up all your courage and tell your best friend, “I want to learn how to paint,” suddenly she remembers an old art book she has laying around she would love to give you, or her friend from church who teaches art classes. The people you know and love want to be a resource. Give them the privilege of being a part of making your dream happen.

2. Join an Online Group

This is one of the simplest—and cheapest—ways to start exploring your passion. Find out who else is talking about restoring antiques and listen to their conversation. Start by Googling your interest along with the term “online groups.” You will be amazed with the number of people who want to talk about the proper way to care for 1950’s lunchboxes as much as you do.

3. Don’t be Afraid to Pray

I remember the first time I put an offer in on a house—I wanted it more than I had wanted almost anything else in my life. While I knew that I had dozens of other people praying on my behalf, I was too scared to pray.

I didn’t want God to tell me no. I was afraid to pray until my co-worker Kim asked me (in a loving, kind way), why I didn’t believe that God wanted His best for me. Don’t be afraid to pray—as with anything amazing in my life, the path is never what I expected, but it has always been obvious that God’s hand has been on it the whole way.

Kathi Lipp is a busy conference and retreat speaker, currently speaking each year to thousands of women throughout the United States. She is the author of The Me Project, The Husband Project and The Marriage Project, and more. Kathi and her husband, Roger, live in California and are the parents of four teenagers and young adults. For more information visit her website: www.kathilipp.com

BLOG TOUR: The Me Project

2011-02-20T17:32:00.000-06:00

The Me Project
21 Days to Living the Life  You’ve Always Wanted
Publisher: Harvest House Publishers
ISBN-10: 0736929665, ISBN-13: 978-0736929660
Release Date: February 1, 2011
Paperback: 224 pages, Retail: $12.99

Book Summary

(San Jose, CA) Has that rush to make (and break) New Year’s resolutions already waned? According to Daniel Pink, author of  Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us, taking small steps every day will not only help you stay committed to your goal,  but will also help you ultimately achieve that goal when obstacles come up. Author Kathi Lipp wants you and your friends to live out those dreams—and have some fun along the way.

As women, we forget the goals and dreams of our younger years. The busyness of everyday life gets  in the way. To-do lists replace goals. The Me Project provides women with fun and creative ways to bring back the sense of purpose and vitality that comes with living out the plans and dreams God has planted in our hearts. Kathi Lipp’s warm tone and laugh-out-loud humor motivates women to take daily steps toward intentional goals. The end result? We get back our lives and enjoy living in the confidence of a purposeful life in spite of our chaotic schedules.

This handy guide coaches women to do one simple thing toward achieving our goals each day for three weeks. A woman experiencing the exhilaration of a rediscovered life offers more as a wife, mother, friend, volunteer, career woman.

Finding the balance between living day-to-day with purpose while pursuing the passions God has placed in our hearts is a delicate pursuit. In this refreshing, insightful book,  Kathi lays out a doable plan that makes sense and helps make our God-given dreams  a reality. Never stop dreaming, because women who dare to dream do make the world  a better place.

—Jean Blackmer
author of MomSense: A Common Sense Guide to Confident Mothering
Publishing Manager, MOPS International www.MOPS.org

Author Bio

Kathi Lipp is a busy conference and retreat speaker, currently speaking each year to thousands of women throughout the United States. She is the author of The Husband Project and The Marriage Project, serves as food writer for Nickelodeon, and has had articles published in several magazines, including Today’s Christian Woman and Discipleship Journal. Kathi and her husband, Roger, live in California and are the parents of four teenagers and young adults. For more information visit her website: www.kathilipp.com

Grand Prize Giveaway:
Deluxe Starbucks Coffee Gift Basket

Three 2.5-oz. bags of Starbucks coffee
(Sumatra, House Blend, and French Roast)
Tazo black tea
Starbucks marshmallow cocoa
Almond roca
Almond roca buttercrunch toffee cookies
White chocolate and raspberry cookies
2 Starbucks mugs
Keepsake black bamboo basket

$62 value

Thanks to our
Blog Hosts:

Monday February 21^st

Growing for Christ

She Sparkles

Christina Will Review It

House Queen

Three Peas in a Pod

Xtreme Team Duty

Ellis Reviews and Life

Jennfaulk.com

Bonhomie Jewels

Mom 2 Mom Connection

Deborah's Butterfly Journey

Mommy's Memorandum

Practical Frugality

Cara's Musings

Farming on Faith

Journaling Gina

Sick of MG

Over A Cuppa Tea

Edna-My Favorite Things

Tuesday, February 22^nd

Be Your Best Mom

My Heart Belongs to Books

Confessions of an Over-worked Mom

Some Things Cookin

Fairfield Corner Academy

In the Dailies:

From His Heart to Yours

Crazy Bout Coffee

Shoofly Pie and Grits

Christian Mama's Guide

Miss Mouthy

A Path of Joy

Chocolate Covered Daydreams

Fresh Brewed Writer

Heidi's Reviews & Reflections

Real Life Deals

Growing a Baby Reviews

Wednesday, February 23^rd

Unfettered Designs

The Journey of Writer Danica Favorite

Grettajohns

Amusing Mom Speaks

The Radical Write

Sometimes I Feel Like a Piece..

They Say I'm Nuts

A Candle in the Dark

Thursday, February 24^th

Pinay Mommy A Dreamer

Wendi's Book Corner

Stay in the Car Mom

Diapers and Diecuts

You Never Let Go

Deb's Book Bag

Deena's Books

Secret Dream World of a Bookaholic

Faith Creativity Life

The Rempels 4

Loving Heart Mommy

Getting All My Ducks in a Row

Homeschool Ducks

His Reading List

Little Ms Blogger

Friday, February 25^th

Fina Moon

In the Pages

Mom Wants Another

Chatty Kelly

I'm No Superstar

Bring on the Books

Ramblings by Nicole Renee

Lighthouse Academy

The Life and Times of a PWN MOM

Scrambled Dregs

One So Blessed

Staying Focused

Dineenmiller

Thoughts That Move

Libs Library

Martipieper

Why Didn't You Warn Me

Audrasilva

Mustard Seed Book Reviews

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS: White Rose Publishing

2011-02-10T09:59:00.000-06:00

White Rose Publishing is seeking manuscripts to fill a special 2011 holiday release extravaganza. We are currently seeking novelette to novella length stories (between 15,000 and 25,000 words) to fill twenty-four special slots. Stories must have a Christmas theme and submissions must be received on or before 1 May 2011.

Stories must be Christian romance, may be contemporary or historical, and may fall under any subgenre (e.g. romantic suspense) To submit, please use the submission form found on our website. (http://www.whiterosepublishing.com/pages/Submission-Form) Be sure to include: CHRISTMAS SUBMISSION: Title of Story in the subject line of your submission.

In addition, White Rose is always open to general submissions. Full submission guidelines may be found at http://www.whiterosepublishing.com/pages/Submission-Guidelines

For more information about White Rose Publishing please visit our website at http://www.whiterosepublishing.com or read some of our titles. Our books are available local and online retailers such as Amazon, ARe, Apple, Barnes and Noble, Christian Book Distributors, Sony.

50+ Tips for Blowing Past Writer's Block

2011-02-07T17:34:00.000-06:00

I contributed to the think tank for this post (you'll find me at #17). Take a look and see if some of these ideas will help you if you are drawing a blank when it's time to write. -Kathy

50+ Tips for Blowing Past Writer’s Block

When you write for a living, or at least part of your living, there will be times when you hit a dry spell, and your brain feels like it’s on empty. Facing writer’s block can be scary, but panicking about it will only make it worse. Last week I wanted to hear from the experts on this topic and asked:

If you maintain a blog, you have a commitment to churn out valuable information on a regular basis. On those occasions when your words just won’t flow, what’s your best strategy for breaking free from writer’s block?

Here's the rest of the article—click on this link:

http://blog.drshannonreece.com/2011/02/07/50-tips-for-blowing-past-writers-block/

What are YOUR block-busting tips? Leave a comment below!

Radio for Book Sales or to Communicate the Message?

2011-02-03T11:08:00.000-06:00

One thing I tell my clients is that we need to change our motives for radio exposure, for it to work.

When many of us first started writing, one of our goals was to find a way to get on radio for ministry opportunities. We didn’t want to sponsor our own segments, due to money limitations, but we felt God leading us to share the message He placed on our hearts to a bigger circle of listeners than our local group (church, organization, etc.).

Becoming an expert on something, especially as a book author, gives us the avenue to be booked on radio. Now we have our opportunity to share that “heart-core” message God’s given us. But by the time we make it to radio, many of us have changed our motives and priorities. Now we want to sell books.

And it shows.

Listeners can sense when a guest is on to sell books, or if their motive is to deliver a “value-added” segment helpful to the audience. When an author’s primary goal is book sales, their answers become more stilted, more like “infomercials.” Teasers force listeners to buy the book to learn more, rather than giving them information right then to use. These same listeners end up turning the channel before the interview is over.

So, if your main goal for radio is to sell books, you will probably be disappointed. But if your main goal for radio is to expose your message to new audiences, THEN you’ve found your niche!

Also, you must seriously evaluate whether you have a radio presence. Not everyone is gifted for radio. Don’t force it to happen if it’s not your “thang.”

As far as publicity, radio is still one “touch” or “reach” to marketing books. But it takes more than one touch to stimulate sales. Many consumers must hear of a product multiple times before they decide to purchase the book. Radio is just one element in the marketing plan.

Another side of the radio situation goes beyond selling ONE book title. Radio helps legitimize you as an expert in your field. Now I know, our humility cringes when we say the word “expert.” So substitute the word “passionate” and you’ll feel more comfortable. What are your passion topics? That’s your area of expertise. If you deliver the goods, audiences will warm up to you and you have just grown your tribe—your circle of influence—your reach. You are broadening platform, imprinting your brand—all the good things that help establish you as a career writer. This goes way beyond one book title.

Hope these ideas help as you wrap your head around radio opportunities.

Kathy Carlton Willis, 2011

Social Networking Tips—Great Ideas!

2011-02-01T11:27:00.000-06:00

Check out these five tips for smarter social networking from Harvard Biz Review Blog. Try implementing or ramping up at least one of these approaches this week. Leave a comment here and report in what your experience has been with social networking as you focus on improving your serve. How do you build community? How do you get more interaction going? When do you find others are more likely to retweet your tweets on twitter or link to your comments on facebook? And most of all, how do you avoid hype and make sure, as Christians, that your status updates encourage genuine connectivity with the goal of fellowship and edification rather than "sales"?
Here's the link:
http://tinyurl.com/6e2d7mg

New Christian Publishing House Debuts

2011-01-25T10:42:00.000-06:00

Byron Williamson

New Christian Publishing House Debuts

Click on the above link to learn more about the newest Christian publishing house on the scene—Worthy Publishing. Looks like their catalog will contain a wide array of categories and genres. Veterans from the publishing world fill the staff. For me, this will be one to watch!