Splashes of Serenity

Life Lessons Learned From My Grandchildren

2012-02-10T17:25:00.000-05:00

The house is now quiet. Six of my eight grandchildren visited me this week. Oh, how I miss them. Grandchildren are like a splash of serenity in a world where all else is chaos. God tells us in Matthew 18:3, to "become like little children." So, I make a practice of observing little children and learning how to behave.

This week I learned:

Children aren't afraid to fall

But they watch where they are going.

They love without expecting anything in return.

When your hat is on backwards, you are still beautiful.

It's okay to lay down on the bowling alley coaxing your ball to knock down more pins.

It's more fun holding hands than going solo.

Letting someone else go first makes you happy.

Really happy!!!

It's the simple things like a good old dog named Fudge that make you smile.

Life is short. Grandchildren grow too fast. Treasure each moment because before long they are taller than you.

Children are God's Splashes of Serenity in a world filled with sadness. Take time to enjoy them and observe how they live and love.

Treasuring each of you today,

Elaine

We All Married Idiots: Three Things You'll Never Change About Your Marriage and Ten Things You Can

2012-02-08T09:24:00.000-05:00

I'm so excited to share my book cover with you. Even more excited to think of the marriages that will be helped and saved through it. Makes my heart pound. It really does.

So where did I come up with that title? Do I really think my husband is an idiot? Well, read the back cover for those answers:

"I married an idiot—and so did my spouse. The word "idiot" is derived from the Greek word meaning "common man." Aren't we all common man? In fact, there is only One who was uncommon man—Jesus Christ. Elaine W. Miller encourages couples to keep their eyes fixed on Jesus and run a marriage marathon like an idiot, but not like a fool. An idiot stumbles. An idiot falls. A fool runs the wrong way.

We All Married Idiots teaches husbands and wives to stop concentrating on the three things you will never change in your marriage and begin focusing on the ten things you can. Then, you will esteem your mate not as an idiot to tolerate, but as a gift to treasure."

Available in April! May this book be a splash of serenity to every husband and wife who reads it!

Yep! I married an idiot and so did my spouse!

Elaine

The Greatest Gift a Husband Can Give His Wife on Valentine's Day

2012-02-06T12:29:00.001-05:00

"Spend time with me. Laugh with me. Listen to me. Pray with me." is the heart cry of many a wife.

Which is why I wrote my second book, titled, Bedtime Meditations for Husbands and Wives.
I wanted a book married couples would read together in bed
before sleep. A book that would make them laugh and cry and pray together before their heads hit the pillow.

My publisher had other plans and renamed the book Splashes of Serenity: Bathtime Reflections for Drained Wives. It's the same book; just the pronouns have been changed. I suggest it could be the sweetest gift you ever gave your sweetheart on Valentine's Day.

Present it with a promise to read one of the thirty reflections with her each night for the next 30 days. You won't be sorry. You'll laugh. You may cry. You might even make love! For sure, you'll bless your Valentine.

You can order on this blog, or contact me at SplashesofSerenity@yahoo.com. Orders must be received by Thursday, February 9 to assure a Valentine's Day delivery.

Happy Valentine's Day! May yours be splashed with love and serenity,

Elaine

The Blessings of Writing and Leaving a Legacy

2012-02-01T09:29:00.002-05:00

I hit the "send" button. My book, We All Married Idiots: Three Things You'll Never Change About Your Marriage and Ten Things You Can, is in the hands of dear Anna, who is incorporating 30 pages of edits into the manuscript and making it all into a book we hope will impact lives.

Today, I rest and recover and reflect, thankful for all who prayed and encouraged and sacrificed. Was it worth it? Oh, yes! This letter from my 7-year old granddaughter tells it all.

Gracie writes,

"Grandma,

... You mean alot to me! I would give you 3 wishes if I could. Thank you for teaching me how to write a book, now I can pass it down to my kids when I grow up!

Love,

Gracie & family"

Reminds me of why we sacrifice hours and days and years to write. This is why: "Let this be written for a future generation, that a people not yet created may praise the Lord." Psalm 102:18

Has God placed a book in your heart? Write it down so future generations can praise the Lord. Be that Splash of Serenity in their lives.

Thanking God for words and books and friends and granddaughters who will create future generations to praise the Lord!

Elaine

Pushing—The End of the Book Birthing Process!

2012-01-27T07:49:00.007-05:00

It's almost here! My third book, We All Married Idiots: Three Things You'll Never Change About Your Marriage and Ten Things You Can is about to be born. Which means, I am in my final phase of labor. So, all else in my life is coming to a halt as I push this baby out.

Sorry, the blog series about publishing my first book is on hold until I finish the edits on my Idiots book. A girl's gotta do what she's gotta do to get that baby birthed.

Here is a look at my labor room and what keeps me breathing as I transition from a manuscript to a book:

A hope-filled romantic, I always light a candle to calm me down, clear my head, and remind me of the One I write for—the Light of the world.

My manuscript has been read approximately 20 times and I'm still finding ways to make it Zing!

My book almost ready for birth, yet still making those changes. It's not quite knit together as the Creator wants it knit. Each word and then each sentence and then each paragraph is dissected to determine if THE best word, sentence, and paragraph has been constructed. It's grueling and it's fun!

My Bible keeps me focused and inspired and is the best resource to find truth on any subject.

My well-read Concordance makes looking up verses regarding my writing topic a breeze.

My Thesauraus keeps my writing fun! I love finding the most power-filled words possible to convey my message.

What would I do without my sticky notes! Each one represents a word I need to look up or change or a sentence I need to make stronger.

My tea. Oh, how I thank God for tea.

My prayer team. I thank God for them and their prayers for me. I have about 50 people praying for my ministry. Would you like to join them? If so, please let me know and I'll send updates via e-mail when I need special prayer.

So, pray for me please. I won't be blogging again until I send these edits to my publisher. Thanking Eddie Jones and Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas for their patience with me and their resolve to work hard to make my words shine.

Praying my new book brings a splash of serenity to marriages in turmoil,

Elaine

Writing Friends are Cheerleaders on Your Way To Publication

2012-01-24T09:53:00.005-05:00

"Publish his glorious deeds among the nations. Tell everyone about the amazing things He does." Psalm 96:3

Diane Estrella read these verses to our writing group last night and encouraged us that we aren't just to write. We are to "Publish."

Writer's groups will encourage you on your publishing road. Often called critique groups—I prefer calling my group "writers" because critique sounds too, well, critical.

Here's how the one I attend works: We meet once a month. Every participant is given 15 minutes to do whatever they wish. Some ask writing questions or share something they've learned. Most bring a writing project they are working on, distribute copies to everyone, read it, and listen while the rest of us give praise and suggest ways to improve what was read.

Having other eyes read what you wrote reveals mistakes you've missed. My 3rd book, We All Married Idiots: Three Things You'll Never Change About Your Marriage and Ten Things You Can, has been read and critiqued about 20 times. I'm in the final edits and still finding errors we all missed. It's critical to have your manuscript critiqued by others before you send it to a publisher and many more times before it is published. Typos, unclear sentences, bad grammar, etc., can distract your reader from the message you are hoping they receive.

When writers gather there is so much laughter and creativity and energy in one room, it is invigorating. Wish I had pictures of my writing friends in Horseheads, NY, where I lived when my first book was published. They are treasures who walked an amazing journey with me, cheering me on. When my husband's job required we move, every person in the Horseheads' group was a published writer.

When we moved to Rome, NY, one of my first priorities was finding writers to meet with monthly. The Lord sent me amazing, gifted, loving encouragers for my journey to book three:

Here are some random shots and fun from last night's writing group:

On the right is the lovely Diane Estrella. I call her God's gift sent to me. We actually met on facebook. She is a blogger extaordinaire at www.DianeEstrella.com. Diane is writing a series of children's books that are sensational.

On the left is Paula Davis—a woman with Godly wisdom, she keeps us centered on Christ. I don't know if she wants this shared, but publicity is good, Paula. She completed a touching book of Christmas advent devotionals she hopes to be published soon. Her blog is www.PaulaDavispeace.com

On the right is the energetic and full-of-Christ and full-of-fun Lisa Buske. Lisa and I connected the moment we met at the Upstate NY Christian Writer's Gathering. Her book, Where's Heidi? The Search Begins, tells the story of her sister Heidi's abduction and the work God did in her life through the pain. Where's Heidi? is being considered by several publishers. She is a fabulous speaker and writer and advocate for missing children. Visit her website for more information at www.LisaBuske.weebly.com.

On the left is Melissa Rottenberry--a poet whose writings touch hearts. Since coming to our writer's group, she has been published in a Christian periodical.

In the middle is Jody Zilske. An English professor who dots our i's and crosses our t's, Jody is one of the best writers I have ever read. When reading her work, I am in awe and sense I am in the presence of one of the greatest. Literally, it's like C.S. Lewis is sitting in the room. She writes for children and for adults and everyone in between. Prolific? She defines that word. You can "like" Jody's facebook page, Deep Calls to Deep.

On the right is Amy Quonce whose book Sometimes The Wind Blows Sideways: Our Lives With A Special Needs Child, was published in December 2011. She has a painful and joyful story that the world needs to read. Check out her website at www.windingroadbook.weebly.com.

Of course, we couldn't end our delightful evening without a Bananagrams game. As Jody said while we met, "Oh, isn't it fun to play with words!" That's what writer's do. We play with words. It is fun.

May God splash some serenity on your writing as you publish His glorious deeds!

Elaine

The Dreaded "R" Word—Rejection. My Writing Journey--Part 5

2012-01-23T07:58:00.000-05:00

Rejected—my manuscript slipped back into the file to be read another day—over my dead body, literally.

Too many gifted writers give up too soon because they fear rejection. They write, are rejected, and then give up. Words that could change someone's life and sentences that God wants someone to read—are stuffed in a drawer never to see or be the light.

You don't write a book so that no one will every read it. If you want to be published I urge you to accept rejection, keep polishing your manuscript, and keep submitting to publishers.

Writing books and writing conferences will help you along your way. A book you should read and keep as a reference is Dave Fessenden's, From Concept to Contract.

Last week, I was honored to be the guest blogger on Dave Fessenden's blog, http://www.fromconcepttocontract.com I wrote the following about that dreaded "R" word—Rejection:

It's a fact, as a writer, you will be rejected—not everyone will like your writing. Why? Well, because readers are all different. A writing style that entices one publisher will not appeal to another.

It happened to me. In 30 minutes I had two appointments with two different publishers. One read my work, put the paper down, and said she couldn't read it. That was not my hoped-for response. Fifteen minutes later a different publisher read the same words and said "This is great! I'd love to publish it."

Rejection is a part of the writing life. Please realize you are not alone. Perhaps these facts from Chicken Soup for the Writer's Soul will encourage you:

Dr. Seuss' book, And to Think That I Saw It on Mulberry Street, was rejected by 27 publishers before Vanguard Press accepted it. It sold six million copies.

Pearl Buck's The Good Earth was rejected 14 times and went on to win a Pulitzer Prize.

Mary Higgins Clark was rejected 40 times before selling her first story. More than 30 million copies of her books are in print.

John Grisham's first novel, A Time to Kill, was turned down by 15 publishers and 30 agents. More than 60 million of his books are in print.

Star Wars was rejected by every movie studio in Hollywood before 20th Century Fox finally produced it.

Rudyard Kipling received the following rejection from the San Francisco Examiner: "I'm sorry, Mr. Kipling, but you just don't know how to use the English language."

What lesson can a writer learn from this? Don't give up. Keep writing. Keep learning. Keep submitting your work.

It's sad when the work of a gifted writer goes unpublished because they can't handle the rejection. Keep your eyes fixed on the One Who received the ultimate rejection. Jesus died for you. I hope you write for Him.

Today I blogged about the rejection. Tomorrow I'll share how my first book went from being a concept to being a contract. Woo Hoo!!!

May God bless your writing with Splashes of Serenity!

Elaine

The Road to Writing a Book. My Journey--Part 4

2012-01-21T08:28:00.001-05:00

So continues my great adventure on the road to writing a book. Enjoy!

Leaving Montrose Christian Writer's Conference in 2002 with the goal to write what I was passionate about--my bath and being a mom--I spent much of the next year in the bathtub.

Really, I did. Pen and paper in hand, I was like this man writing much of my manuscript while soaking in the suds and the serenity of a quiet bathroom. I'm glad I never took a picture--I'd be tempted to post it.

I remember one devotional written the night before my youngest went to college. Like most mothers who are saying good-by to their babies, I ran to the bathroom, turned on the faucet and cried my aching heart away. Consoling myself in the water, I wrote "No Room In The Tub for Me."

The next summer I arrived (quite pruney) at Montrose with a finished book proposal and a manuscript for a book I titled, Cleanse My Heart: Bathtime Meditations for Moms (that title won over Pass the Loofah, Lord!). Meeting with four publishers, I again stopped breathing when all four asked me to send them my complete manuscript.

The editor of Salvation Army War Cry Magazine was there as well. We had a God-ordained (in the secular world that's called "chance") meeting. Showing her, "No Room in the Tub for Me" I asked if she had any advice. Her response thrilled me, "I want it. I'll buy it from you right now." For the first time, I received payment for my writing. Not that I was hungry for money, but the realization that someone paid for what I wrote, gave me confidence that I might be a writer afterall.

I left Montrose hopeful, clicking my writing fingers (er, I mean heels). While waiting to receive word from one of those four publishers, I continued building my resume with speaking engagements and another magazine article:

Woo Hoo!!! became Boo Hoo as over the next months, I received my first four rejections. All right with that, perhaps even relieved, I put my proposal and my manuscript for Cleanse My Heart into my files with the thought that someday when I'm dead, my children and grandchildren will read this. It blesses me to think that I wrote a book for them. That must have been God's plan for my writing.

That was the end of my story, but it wasn't the end of God's plan for my writing. In my next post, you'll read how Cleanse My Heart became Splashes of Serenity, my first book.

Today's publishing tip: Build your resume with magazine articles and speaking engagements. Publishers look at your work differently when they hear you have an audience in place. It's one of the first questions they'll ask you.

Have a beautiful Sabbath of Serenity!

Elaine

Write What You are Passionate About--My Writing Journey, Part 3

2012-01-20T07:41:00.001-05:00

Part 3 of my writing journey continues with this wanna-be-obedient-to-God writer enthralled by the speakers at Montrose Christian Writer's Conference.

Two dozen devotions in hand with no idea how or if they will become a book, I listened intently to each presenter.

"Write what you are passionate about." the author/teacher at Montrose said.

Ha! I'm passionate about a lot of things. Let's see. I'm passionate about my bath, I chuckled out loud at my own silliness. More seriously, I realized, I'm passionate about being a mom! And so I wrote, Splashes of Serenity: Bathtime Reflections for Drained Moms

Oh, if only it was that easy. The book came four years later, but that first writing seminar is where the direction came for my first book.

My advice to you: Write what you are passionate about. It worked for me and, I hope, it will keep you from hitting your own head hoping words and illustrations and titles fall into your brain. If you are passionate about a subject, that's what God has for you to write.

Most writers don't leave their first writer's conference with a book contract in hand. Publishers want to see your writing in print other places before they'll risk printing the book of an unknown writer. You need to start building a resume.

At Montrose Christian Writer's Conference, and most other writing conferences, attendees are granted 15 minute appointments with authors, editors, agents, and publishers of their choosing. These people will read your work and give you their professional opinion. A word of encouragement: Not all publishers will like what you write. So, if one publisher isn't positive about your writing, don't give up because of one opinion.

That first conference, I was too intimidated to meet with a publisher, but I did want someone to read my devotions and tell me honestly whether I could write or not. In the gazebo, I met with Gloria Clover who published a compilation of devotionals in her books, Penned From the Heart.

So nervous, I handed my work to Gloria. Quietly, she read a few, looked up and said, "How many of these can I have? I want to put them in my book." My heart stopped--at least it felt like it.

I was now a published writer. For the next two years my devotionals appeared in Penned From the Heart. My resume building had begun.

What did I learn that can help you?

~~Write what you are passionate about.

~~Begin building a resume by being published in a smaller market.

~~Learn how to write a book proposal and a query letter.

~~Attend a writer's conference where you will learn the business and meet people who will help you on your writing way.

I left Montrose resolved to return the following year with a book proposal and a manuscript of bathtime devotions for mothers. Stay tuned for more tomorrow.

Meanwhile, I suggest a hot bath so you can soak all this in. It worked for me!

Elaine

Called to Write, But How Do I Become Published?

2012-01-19T08:33:00.006-05:00

Good morning friends. This blog post is a continuation from yesterday's post as I continue to share how I became a published author. Enjoy!

God called me to write a book. So, I wrote. Not certain what I was to write--I just wrote. As my writing progressed, it seemed that short stories and devotional writing were what flowed best from my heart to my pen.

If you want to be a writer, you need to write--a lot. It is a craft that improves with practice. A newpaper columnist advised me to write every day. I told him I didn't have time to write every day. He said, "Do you have an hour? Then write for an hour." I took up his challenge.

People prayed for me as I shared with them that God called me to write a book. If you are a Christian writer, please surround yourself with people who will pray for you. Writing is a hard, lonely business. You may lose friends who don't understand that you need to sit at your desk and write instead of join them for coffee. That was sometimes painful. I am thankful for friends who understood and prayed.

So, there I was with a stack of writing and no idea what to do next. I wasn't concerned about publishing it. I felt God would open that door when the time was right. He did just that.

In those days, Dan and I were leading marriage retreats at Montrose Bible Conference in Montrose, PA. Arriving for the conference, I spotted the brochure advertising the Montrose Christian Writer's Conference. Who ever heard of a conference for writers? Well, God did and He led me to this lovely place overflowing with creative minds, publishers, agents, and invaluable teaching.

Having no idea what was ahead, not knowing what to bring, the following summer I returned to Montrose armed with a stack of my devotional writings.

What a beautiful place and a worthwhile conference. I attended what I called the Getting Published 101 daily class where I learned the ins and outs of publishing and how to write a book proposal to send to publishers.

This year Montrose Christian Writers Conference will be July 22-27, 2012. More information can be found at http://www.montrosebible.org/writers.

The number one writing tip I give a writer is to go to a writer's conference. You'll meet people who become treasures of advice and love and encouragement as your journey continues.

In my opinion, if you are serious about your writing career, you need to write, you may need to give up some pleasures so you have time to write, it is good to have people support you in prayer, and going to a writer's conference is essential.

Tomorrow, I'll share more about what happened at Montrose.

Hoping these writing and publishing tips lead you to splash into the writing pool. Enjoy the swim! It's worth it.

Splashes of Serenity,

Elaine

God's Call to Write

2012-01-18T14:01:00.003-05:00

Many desire to write a book. Not me. It wasn't on my radar or my "to do" list. Writing takes discipline and many hours staring at a computer screen. I liked partying with people and I hoped to never own a computer.

In my wildest thoughts, I never envisioned that one day I'd be signing books at Barnes & Nobel. But God had a plan for me that I had never imagined.

For most of my adult life, I enjoyed writing in my journals. I wrote about my life, my thoughts, my faith, my family, and all things I wanted my grandchildren to know after I was dead. Placing those journals in my file cabinet, I had one hope: One day when I am gone, my family will find them and learn about my life. But God had other plans for them.

One Sunday I went to church. Well, actually, I go to church every Sunday. This Sunday my husband preached on the parable of the talents. In that parable God is angry with the lazy servant for burying his talent. To my surprise (perhaps "to my horror" is more accurate), God spoke to my heart during that service. He said, "What good are those writings doing buried in your file cabinet if no one reads them?"

I knew God was calling me to write. But I didn't have a clue how to write a book or how to get it published.

Do you? Is God calling you to write? If so, check back for more of this story in my next blog.

Hoping you have a splash of serenity from God as He reveals to you His plan for your life. I hope you are listening!

"'For I know the plans I have for you,'declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future...'" Jeremiah 29:11

Be blessed,
Elaine

My Take on Tim Tebow

2012-01-14T10:02:00.000-05:00

I sat watching the Steeler/Bronco's game wearing my Polamalou T-shirt and Steeler flannel pants. My head resting on my Steeler pillow, I sipped soda from my Steeler mug and cheered for the Bronco's! I couldn't help it. "Your father would be turning in his grave." Dan laughed.

I admire Tim Tebow, because I am thrilled to see a Christian love Jesus without shame or apology. We should be like him. It's a lot easier to hide our light. Yet, Jesus says we are to shine His light. We live in a world where we are afraid to do so. Good for Tim Tebow. He's not afraid.

My granddaughter's school had a parade where the students brought their favorite book and dressed like a character in that book. She dressed as an angel and carried her Bible. Some wondered if Gracie would get into trouble. She didn't.

The response to Tim Tebow is overwhelming. People are Tebowing all over the world. Many for the wrong reasons. That's all right. Others are now more bold about their faith and that is good.

In a world where we fear a seven-year old carrying her Bible in a school parade, I heard John 3:16 read on prime-time network news. Wow! May His Word not return void.

Tim Tebow invites a family who is critically ill to each football game. He pays their way. After each game he doesn't join the team doing what they do, he joins the family of the sick and celebrates with them. Now that's a role model our children need.

Please join me in prayer for Tim Tebow. You know the world and satan would love to see him fall.

Whether the Bronco's win or lose today, Tim Tebow is a winner and a splash of serenity and hope in a world that drains us and has us believing we better not mention Jesus. Thanks, Tim! You're not God, but you are a believer who inspires! May God use you.

Getting ready for the game!

Elaine

A Christian Writer Must Cling to the Cross

2012-01-13T10:36:00.001-05:00

I was asked this week, "What part does God play in my writing career?" My answer gave me cause for reflection:

God doesn't play a role in my career. God is my writing career.

As writers, our words are being read by the world. People from over 27 countries have read this blog. I've received emails from Christians in Pakistan thanking me and telling me the encouragement Splashes of Serenity is to them.

Words are powerful. We influence with words. Our words come from our hearts and our minds onto paper and then out to the world. For me, it is essential that my mind and my heart are pure and holy so that satan (I never capitalize his name) will have no entrance to my life, my pen, or my computer.

So, daily learning from His Word,and praying to Him are essential for me and for my writing and speaking. When my heart and my mind are empty of all else but Christ, the words flow. If the words aren't flowing, I get on my knees asking God to reveal sin in my heart that is keeping me from Him. I pray that all Christian writers have pure hearts so we can impact the world for Christ.

Writing is power. May we use the gift of words to tell the world of the hope of Christ. I encourage you to cling to the cross and write for Him. May we all hear from readers that our words brought them closer to Christ.

Clinging to the cross,

Elaine

Indescribable Gifts are Always the Right Size.

2012-01-06T15:22:00.002-05:00

It's not the presents under the tree that I remember this Christmas. It's all the rest--the indescribable things that make Christmas so grand!

Thanking God today for the indescribable gifts He gave to me this Christmas:

For our new grandson, Isaac Samuel, born December 27.

For the love in Garrett's heart. When I said to Garrett, "Isn't Isaac sweet." He replied, "No Grandma. He's more than sweet. Hmmmm. there are no words."

For cousin love and Christmas soup.

For Grandpa reading the Christmas story as soon as the sun is up.

For dear daughters and Christmas cookies.

For the miracle of love and birth and family.

For a cow coming to greet the newborn baby.

For a grandson in a grandpa's arms.

For a daughter playing with her mama's hair.

For a surprise visit from our son Sam.

For a hat and afghan made with love by a mama to her baby.

For Grandma love.

For a Winter hike.

For an unexpected New Year's Day dinner with my 90-year-old mother and my sister.

For Isaac's first smile.

Welcome to the world, Isaac Samuel! May you learn early that God has given you an indescribable gift--Jesus Christ. He was born to be your Savior and your Lord. "Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!" 2 Cor. 9:15.

What indescribable gift did God give to you this Christmas?

Mine were a splash of serenity to me!

May 2012 be filled with moments that are beyond description!

Elaine

Warning: Don't Promote Your Book in an Ambulance!

2011-12-21T07:26:00.002-05:00

Here's what not to do in an ambulance: Don't tell the EMT the name of my new book, We All Married Idiots, while he's inserting an IV. The dear man cracked up and I have three needle pokes to prove it.
It was comforting for my husband riding in the car behind observing everyone laughing in the ambulance. He figured I hadn't died. Phew!

Entering the ER, the EMT announced to the world, "She wrote a book and guess what it's called? We All Married Idiots!" It's pretty cool when your book is marketed in the emergency room by a kind EMT. I thank God for his compassion towards me and his passion for a book about idiots. (BTW, the EMTs were wonderful and skilled. My teeny veins were the issue.)

Don't worry. I'm all right. But for 15 minutes I thought my days on earth were done. Sudden and severe chest pain prompted a 911 call. My goal to never ride in an ambulance was laid to rest. A day in the ER laughing and crying through Marley and Me, while being poked by needles and skinned alive by the tape adhering a dozen heart monitor stickers to my body ended with the diagnosis of an esophogal spasm--an uncommon event that has the same symptoms as a heart attack (and should be treated like a heart attack--because it might be one).

I'm fine and I'm thankful. Thankful for John 3:16, "For God loved the world so much that He gave His one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish, but have eternal life."

Do you believe that? I do. And that belief and faith gives me assurance that had today been the day this idiot left earth, I'd be alive in Heaven celebrating Christmas with Jesus. What a blessed thought! It really is a splash of serenity to be ready to die.

Are you ready? That chest pain was sudden. It came with no warning. One day it will happen to each of us. Our life on earth will end.

In my book, We All Married Idiots, I make the case that we really are all idiots, but we don't have to be fools. Psalm 14:1 says "A fool says in his heart, 'There is no God.'" It's all right to be an idiot, but don't be a fool.

Tests proved my heart is physically healthy. My belief in Jesus assures my heart is spiritually healthy. I'll continue an abundant life on earth knowing eternal life awaits!

I hope you have the best Christmas of your life and believe in the Baby in the Manger. He was no idiot. He is God. And on the cross He took the punishment for our sins so we idiots could be reconciled to God. Thanking God for His care and His great love for me and for you.

Merry Christmas!

Elaine

JOYful Christmas Letter

2011-12-10T09:47:00.001-05:00

JOY! wished for you this Christmas!

JOY! We welcome the Baby Jesus this Christmas. Because of Him, our sins are forgiven, we are reconciled to God, we have eternal life in Heaven and abundant life on earth. So many reasons to celebrate Christmas with JOY!

JOY! Dan and I continue serving as District Superintendent and wife of the C&MA Northeastern District. We pray our encouragement and prayers bring JOY! to Pastors and wives and congregants of nearly 80 churches. Our annual trips to Bosnia as Pastoral Care Couple are times we receive and prayerfully give JOY! to International Workers there.

JOY! I received a publishing contract for my third book, We All Married Idiots: Three Things You'll Never Change About Your Marriage and Ten Things You Can to be released April 1, 2012. JOY! My speaking and writing ministry continues to grow. You can catch up with me and my ministry on Facebook, twitter, my website, www.SplashesofSerenity.com or my blog, www.ElaineWMiller.blogspot.com.

JOY! Joanna and Bob continue their work as a reading teacher and the News Director with the Family Life Network. Gracie and Ryan fill their home with daily bounces of JOY!

JOY! Elizabeth and Joe will welcome their sixth child due December 27.

JOY! Joe and Elizabeth started a business making goat milk soaps, lotions, salves, scrubs and more. Check out their website, www.DandelionsAcre.com. Homeschooling, nursing, window cleaning, and rearing JOY!ful kids gives them reason to celebrate daily the JOY! of life.

JOY! Sam and Katie enJOY! the beaches of Florida in their new assignment with the U.S. Air Force JAG. JOY! We are thankful Sam is spending another Christmas on this side of the Atlantic.

JOY! We celebrated my mother's 90th birthday. JOY! She beats me at Bananagrams, and that is an accomplishment.

JOY! We hope you received God's gift of JOY! He sent to you that first Christmas when the Angels proclaimed, "I bring you Good News that will bring great JOY! to all people. The Savior--yes, the Messiah, the Lord--has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David!" Without Christ, there would be no Christmas and no JOY!

Praying for you a Christmas filled with JOY! and Splashes of Serenity!
Elaine

Serenity Came Down at Christmas

2011-12-09T12:30:00.000-05:00

Today I welcome the man who has splashed me with serenity and love for 41 years. Recopied from the C&MA Northeastern District newsletter, may its truth give us cause for pause.

Another Advent season is upon us and with it the joyful
expectation of, and preparation for, the celebration of our Savior’s
birth. This Christmas day as Elaine and I are gratefully recalling the birth
of baby Jesus, we will also be excitedly awaiting the birth of baby Isaac, our eighth grandchild who is due to arrive December 27th. As have our other
grandkids, we know Isaac will light up our lives in wonderful ways.

The light a newborn brings to his family is dazzling but it pales in comparison to the light that came into the world with the birth of Jesus Christ. Though not often regarded as a Christmas hymn, P.P. Bliss’ “The Light of The World” conveys a powerful Christmas message:

The whole world was lost in the darkness of sin;
The light of the world is Jesus;
Like sunshine at noonday His glory shone in,
The light of the world is Jesus.

The darkness of our sinful world is pervasive. Every day reminders of that
truth come to us through our newspapers, televisions, computers, and smart
phones. Just when we think sin has hit us with its best (worst) shot, some
new headline or news thread reminds us that Satan is as active as ever. He
still prowls around like a lion, looking for someone to devour. Every
depressing, even disgusting, account of his successful attacks reveals how
desperately people need to come from the darkness of their sin into the light of God’s love and mercy through Jesus Christ.

As we all move through this precious season of the year, may our eyes,
minds, and hearts be fixed on Jesus, the light of the world. May our lives and our churches shine the brilliant light of our Savior into the darkness of our world as we remember these darkness-piercing words from Dwight Hall’s
song, “Lord, in This Urgent Hour.”

Millions are lost from Thee,
Great God of Majesty,
Oh, Savior, set them free,
Great God of love.

Lord, let your light shine through us,
Dan

The Funny Things (and God-Appointments)That Happen at a Writer's Conference

2011-12-08T07:12:00.001-05:00

God brings friends together in hilarious ways.

"You, with the beautiful hair, do you know the answer?"

Surely, she doesn't mean me. Attending the Greater Philadelphia Christian Writer's Conference, I had slipped into Patricia Durgin's marketing class a little late.

"You, you, the one with the beautiful hair, do you know the answer?" she pointed right at me.

"You mean me?"

"Yes, you. You, with the beautiful hair."

Blushing and feeling quite lovely, I answered her question.

Later, I saw Patricia Durgin in the hallway. Fluffing my beautiful hair, I went straight to her to thank her for her compliment. Before opening my mouth, my eyes spotted the badge proclaiming loudly from her jacket, "VISUALLY IMPAIRED."

Laughter arose from my gut and within minutes the lady with the beautiful hair and the seeing-impaired teacher bonded.

Today, I'd like to introduce you to Patricia Durgin, my friend with the beautiful eyes. She is beginning a new season of coaching women to discover what God created you to be and do. Titled "His Purple Thread--Detecting God's Pattern in Your Life," Patricia's ministry coaches each of us to discover the purple thread God weaves through our individual lives so we can know and fulfill God's plan.

This afternoon, 12/8/2011, at 1:00 won't you join us in a teleconference call and discover if His Purple Thread is just what you've been seeking as you desire to know what God created you to do and how to do it with excellence.

For more information:

Patricia Durgin's website is http://tiptracy.com/

An overview of His Purple Thread can be seen at http://tiptracy.com/hispurplethread/

Connect to the teleconference at http://tiptracy.com/liveteleconferenceinstgructions/

I'll be on the call and hope to talk to you!

His Purple Thread may be just what you need to bring splashes of serenity to your life!

Blessings,

Elaine

Christmas Depression

2011-12-05T20:19:00.002-05:00

If ever there is a season where people are prone to depression, psychologists agree Christmas brings it on. Why is this so and what can we do about it?

A widow shared with me recently, "I can hardly bear the thought of Christmas since my husband died. Christmas is painful--so much of the celebration is about family." Well, what a wonderful time to welcome the suffering into your family! After all, didn't the Baby Jesus come "...to bring good news to the poor.... to bind up the brokenhearted .... to comfort all who mourn...." (Is. 61:1-2)?

This Christmas let's remember those whose hurts hurt more during December. Invite the poor and broken hearted to share the day with you. Buy gifts for children of the unemployed. Bake cookies and deliver them to the home of a shut-in.

One of my most joyous Christmas memories was a surprise visit to the widow and invalid who lived across the street. Dan played his trumpet and we sang our Christmas card to her. She burst into tears, joined in the singing, and said, "This is my best Christmas ever!" We received cookies and a Christmas memory of our own.

This Christmas be blessed as you bless those depressed at Christmastime. "...bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair." (Is. 61:3). It will be a splash of serenity you'll never forget and give you your best Christmas ever!

What will you do for someone who hurts this Christmas?

Blessed Christmas season to all,

Elaine

I'm Dreaming of an Organized Christmas!

2011-11-30T20:57:00.005-05:00

Are you like me--a disorganized mess in December? Somehow, with God's help, I manage to get it all together and by Christmas the house is decorated, the grandchildren are excited, and the gifts are under the tree. But at what cost?

I find my time with the Lord is less in December than any other month. That breaks my heart. It must break God's too. This year I will try again to set my priorities and know peace and joy through the entire month of December not just Christmas morn.

Marnie Swedberg posted a "beat-the-date" deadline list for Christmas 2011 on her blog, http://marnieswedberg.wordpress.com. I found it helpful. I've revised it a bit, but I hope this organization will give you a lot more splashes of serenity in your December:

1. Begin Advent devotions. Sing "Deck the Halls" and begin decorating house--interior.

2. Sing "I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus" as you finalize Christmas gift list and budget. Kiss your honey!

3. Sing "It's Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas" and finish inside and decorate house-exterior.

4. Sunday. Enjoy the Sabbath. Go to Church. Rest. Sing "O Come, O Come Emmanuel."

5. Create the Christmas weekend agenda. Sing "The 12 Days of Christmas."

6. Send invitations or confirmations for Christmas events.

7. Determine baking roster and create shopping list. Go for a good walk and sing "Silver Bells."

8. Write Christmas letter. Listen to Handel's "Messiah."

9. Grocery shop for baking supplies. Say "Merry Christmas" to everyone you meet!

10. Do Christmas baking. Take baked goodies to your neighbors.

11. Sunday. Go to church. Rest. Celebrate. Sing your favorite carols.

12. Address and sign Christmas cards. Sing "I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas."

13. Mail Christmas cards, letters, and gifts. Pray that each recipient will be blessed.

14. Prepare holiday menus and shopping list. Better get some exercise!

15-17. Finish Christmas shopping and wrapping. Pray! Pray! Pray! And say "Merry Christmas" to everyone you meet!

18. Sunday. Take a break! Rest! Celebrate! Take your family Christmas carolling around the neighborhood.

19. Grocery shop for weekend meals.

20-22. Pre-cook anything you can. Take a nap.

23. Clean like a crazy woman. Not really. Afterall, remember what it all looks like at 9:00 a.m. Christmas morn.

24-25. Enjoy Christmas!

Reading that list helped me feel more organized. We'll see if it works. Whatever you do in December, don't forget our Savior Baby Jesus came simply. He didn't arrive all decorated and smelling good. What I'd really like to do this December is retreat with my God and just know Him better than I did in November. Now that's a goal that should be on everyone's to-do list.

Merry Christmas blessings, friends,

Elaine

The Best Christmas Gift Ever

2011-11-29T10:24:00.002-05:00

Are you already tired of the Christmas hustle and bustle? Are you ready for a Christmas splash of serenity? Bring your girlfriends and relax and laugh and cry and leave the world behind as we open The Best Christmas Gift Ever!

I'd love to celebrate Christmas with you at the following events where I will be speaking in December:

December 6, "A Christmas Sweeter Than Chocolate" at Delta Lake Bible Conference Center, Rome, NY, 6:00 p.m. Cost: $8.50. Please make reservations by calling Dawn Smith at 315-336-3483.

December 10, Christmas Dinner at Clearview C&MA Church, Schodack, NY. Please call the church at 518-758-6529 for information.

December 12, "The Best Christmas Ever" Christian Women's Connection lunch, Holiday Inn, Johnstown, NY, 11:30 a.m. Call Debbie at 518-637-5274 for reservations.

December 13, "The Best Christmas Ever" Saratoga Christian Women's Connection lunch at Longfellow's, Noon, Saratoga Springs, NY. Call Ellie at 518-584-3779 for reservations.

December 14, "The Best Christmas Ever" at The Guilderland Elks Lodge, Guilderland, NY, 11:30 a.m. Call Nancy at 869-0642 for reservations.

What joy for me to see you and your carload of girlfriends!

Merry Christmas hugs,

Elaine

Thanksgiving Day! Poem by my Granddaughter, Gracie

2011-11-24T08:14:00.000-05:00

A writer reads books and observes life and writes about it. My Granddaughter, Gracie, seven years old, wrote this Thanksgiving poem on Thanksgiving Eve:

Thanksgiving Day!

It is Thanksgiving Day.
Grandma and Mommy bake the corn casserole for our fine feast.
My Aunt gave the good turkey who was on a farm.
And now the turkey is as bald as can be.
My mom eyes the boxes as she looks for yummy treats
For this fine Thanksgiving Day!!!

by Gracie Price ~ seven years old.

My grandchildren are all here! I'm surrounded with splashes of joy and wonder on this fine Thanksgiving Day!

Be blessed,

Elaine

It's Thanksgiving! But, are We Really Thankful?

2011-11-20T13:50:00.000-05:00

My daughter and son-in-law raised this bird for our Thanksgiving dinner. All 29 pounds of him will, hopefully, fit in our oven and feed the smiles of family gathered around our table. I'm excited to thank God for His blessings.

But am I really thankful? I am commanded to be ALWAYS thankful for ALL things, yet some days I'm guilty of hanging my head low and murmuring words of misery to God and the world. Are you guilty as well?

My quest to stop belly aching and start obeying and commence living a life of continual thankfulness to God took me to Ann Voskamp's book, one thousand gifts. Wow! Her words pierced my heart.

I share from my journal Ann's thoughts regarding our unthankfulness and God's commands to give thanks for everything:

"I enter the world like every person born enters the world: with clenched fists."

"Is the height of my... joy dependent on the depths of my ... thanks?"

"Thanksgiving is the evidence of our acceptance of whatever He gives. Thanksgiving is the manifestation of our Yes! to His grace."

"... I was saved and had said my yes to God, but was really living the no....Because I wasn't taking everything in my life and returning to Jesus, falling at His feet and thanking Him...."

"How in the world, for the sake of my joy, do I learn to ... overcome my ... ugly and self-destructive habit of ingratitude ... with the saving habit of gratitude--that would lead me back to deep God-communion."

"With an expiration of less than twelve hours, what does Jesus count as all most important? 'And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them...'" (Luke 22:19).

I hope Ann's thoughts give you pause this Thanksgiving as you break bread and thank God for it. It's easy to thank Him when our tummys are full and our Thanksgiving turkey is stuffed. On days not so plentiful, may we remember to fall at His feet and thank Him.

Blessed Thanksgiving, dear friends! May each day be a splash of serenity to you. I do thank God for you!

Elaine

It Was The Best of Times--It was the Worst of Times

2011-11-15T09:11:00.001-05:00

My book Splashes of Serenity: Bathtime Reflections for Drained Moms relates true stories of people dear to my life. In celebration of its 3rd printing, I hope readers enjoy an update on the lives of some written about in my book, Splashes of Serenity: Bathtime Reflections for Drained Moms.

My baby brother's story and an excerpt from "It was the Worst of Times--It was the Best of Times" follows:

"This was only his second Christmas, and it was to be his last. My baby brother's cancer was diagnosed when he was nine months old. Six months to live was the hope we were given. It was the worst of times....

I hurt. I suffered the pain of losing my...brother....

My life changed at age sixteen. I realized a bad hair day no longer meant the world was ending.... People became more important than possessions.
Looking back now, I realize the blessings of this experience.

What would I be like today if I had been spared this suffering? I suspect shallower, less compassionate,.... God used the worst time of my life...it became the best thing that ever happened to me. My life has been better because of the pain.

And the best is last: God performed a miracle. My brother lives!"

Today, November 15, is my brother's birthday. I'm with him in Colorado celebrating the precious gift God gave to me when He gave me a baby brother and when that brother had cancer. I'm a better person because of the pain.

What a splash of serenity to know whatever happens in life, I can look forward to the lessons learned from suffering.

For more on my brother and "The Gift of Suffering" please see http://www.FancyLittleThings.com today. I'm their guest blogger.

Happy Birthday to Tyler!

Elaine

The War That Changed My Husband's Life

2011-11-10T09:01:00.001-05:00

Viet Nam, July 31, 1969,--A day my husband doesn't talk about. His med-evac helicopter was shot down in the middle of a battle in the dark of the night. Ignoring life-threatening injuries of his own, my husband carried three men up a steep ravine to safety. While mortar and small-arms fire continued their attempt to bring Dan and others down, he returned to the the fire-swept ravine to treat the injured.

Dan saved men's lives; but for others he was too late. They died in his arms. Dan held those men to his heart and wondered, Why am I alive and they are dead? He didn't have an answer.

But he did make an oath to the men who died that night: I don't know why I'm still living, but I promise you I'll make my life count in your honor.

Dan never forgot that vow. He lives it every day.

The Silver Star was awarded for his heroism. He shakes his head and says, "I was just at the wrong place at the wrong time." No, Dan. You were right where God wanted you.

God has a plan for our days. Let us make each one count. Never forget some die so we can live.

There was another who bled and and gave His life for us--Jesus Christ. May we live each day aware of that fact and vow that our lives will count for God's Glory and Honor.

Thank you, Jesus; thank you, Dan; thank you all who serve and all who die so we might live. You splash us with serenity with every breath we take!

Happy Veteran's Day,

Elaine

Letting Jesus Lead Your Marriage Dance

2011-11-07T11:32:00.000-05:00

Jenny proclaimed "Amen!" when my husband pronounced that she and our nephew, Jeff, were now "husband and wife." What a perky bride! It was a joy for Dan to marry two who really wanted to be married to each other.

As I witnessed the sacredness and participated in the fun of their wedding day, I remembered the truth that nothing will separate them from the love of God and I prayed nothing would separate them from loving each other.

It occurred to me that is what many married people do. They stop dancing together and they "let" things separate them. It's not a happy dance when we step on God's toes and His Plan for marriage by allowing material goods or friends or family or jobs or play or children or money or pride or selfishness to become more important than our spouses.

Jeff and Jenny, let nothing separate you from loving each other. As you dance through life, cling to each other and cling to God. Hold His Hands, and let Jesus lead. He loves you and He'll never let you go. Afterall, He joined you together as husband and wife. He pronounced an "Amen" along with you, Jenny!

Enjoy the dance Jesus planned for you! Hold His hands. Never let go! Don't step on His toes, but follow His lead.

Your wedding was a splash of serenity to me as I experienced the beauty of God's love through the beauty of your love for each other.

I love you,

Aunt Elaine

There's More to Writing a Book Than Writing a Book

2011-11-01T06:56:00.000-04:00

With a HUGE sigh, "The End!" is typed. The last page is done. Your book is finished. You laugh, you jump up and down, and then you cry from exhaustion and exhilaration.

Then you wait. And wait. And wait some more. Centuries later an e-mail arrives from your agent with the subject, "Congratulations!" In awe of this hard-worked-for moment, it sinks in that a publishing contract is on its way.

The contract signed, sealed, and sent back to the publisher it all hits you again as you realize typing "The End" was only the beginning.

So, you pray and pray and pray some more asking God for direction and strength and wisdom and an absolutely pure heart as you begin thinking about the dreaded M word--Marketing!

I'm told that writing is 90 percent marketing and 10 percent writing. So, let the marketing begin! Batter's up! I'm ready to round the publishing plate and place my book, We All Married Idiots: Three Things You'll Never Change About Your Marriage and Ten Things You Can in front of many eyes.

How? Well, here's just the beginning:

Seek endorsers and reviewers. God amazed me and gave me well-respected and well-known authors agreeing to endorse my book. Thank you God and friends!

Write a hook for the back cover that a reader can't resist.

Work with the publisher to design the cover.

Work with the publisher to produce a book trailer.

Plan a blog tour. Still working on this. Anyone out there have a blog and want to know why I wrote We All Married Idiots? I'll make your audience laugh--promise. Or, maybe cry. But that's good for ratings too!

Plan a facebook release party. This should be fun! Will you please come?

Develop a We All Married Idiots facebook page (for the release party and to interact with readers). Like Me! Like Me! Please!

Plan an in-house book release party. Refreshments served that won't be available at my facebook party. Sorry facebook friends.

Contact media for interviews. Two already contacted me! That was easy!

Write a press release.

Redesign both my website and my blog. Help needed here! Any volunteers?

Order book marks and postcards to send to every person I've ever smiled at my entire life. Oh yes, I've lived 12 places. That's a lot of smiles.

Read the three pages my agent sent me of things I need to do now that the contract is signed.

And last but not least, while the busyness of marketing is going on, God's been busy putting the next book idea in my head. It is time to start writing book number 4.

My mind is spinning because through it all I'm laughing, jumping up and down, and then crying in exhaustion and exhilaration! It really is a Splashes of Serenity kind of a feeling.

Thanks for hearing my heart. My only goal each day is to be in God's will and make Him smile at me. That's better than a publishing contract any day.

Love to all who pray for me and read my books! You're the best!

Elaine

A Tribute to the Pastor's Wife

2011-10-27T07:59:00.000-04:00

Dan and I celebrated 25 years of ministry this year. This photo was taken the night of Dan's installation as District Superintendent in the Christian and Missionary Alliance. That night I changed roles from being a Pastor's wife to being a Pastor's wife to Pastors' wives.

I love the women who serve so sacrificially with their husbands. I pray for them because I know what a wonderful blessing it is to be called by God and yet....

I know what it is like to cry with your man. There are nights you don’t sleep because your Pastor husband beside you is tossing and turning and sweating in agony over unresolved church conflict. There are times you pray for your children until you have no words left. I know you have trouble and you feel all alone unable to share your heart with anyone. Those are the dark days in the parsonage....

I also know there are days when SON shines through the Parsonage windows. Who can fathom the joy of lost sheep being found when your husband preaches a life-saving message? How awesome of God to provide for your needs over and above what you asked or imagined. What satisfaction knowing God uses you and your husband to care for His Flock, to weep with those who weep and to rejoice with those who rejoice. Could anything be more meaningful than leading the lost to eternity? It’s worth it. Your life and your ministry matter.

I found this poem which I felt describes life in the parsonage pretty well. On this Clergy Appreciation Month, I honor Pastors' wives and thank you for your obedience to God's call.

THE PASTOR’S WIFE

There is one person in our Church
Who knows our Pastor’s life.
Who weeps and smiles and prays with Him,
And that’s the Pastor’s wife!

The crowd has seen him in his strength,
While bearing God’s Sharp Sword
As underneath God’s banner’s folds
He faced the devil’s horde.

But deep within her heart she knows
That scarce an hour before
She helped him pray the glory down
Behind the closet door!

She heard him groaning in his soul
When bitter raged the strife.
As, hand in hand she knelt with him,
For she’s the Pastor’s Wife.

You tell your tales of Preachers brave
Who marched across the world
And changed the course of history
By burning words they hurled

And I will tell how back of each
Some woman lived her life
Who wept with him and smiled with him,
She was the Pastor’s Wife!

~Author Unknown

Praying not for a Splash of Serenity, but a sweet-flowing Stream of Serenity as you serve God, your husband, your family, your church, and your world.

Elaine

Oh The Silly Places Books are Born!

2011-10-25T10:03:00.007-04:00

Last night at my writer's group, we writers got a good laugh as we shared notes of the silly places we write our books.

Those who write know that God gives you great stories at the most inconvenient times--like in the middle of the night or in the middle of a shower!

One writer keeps her Ipad next to her bed, so she can write her thoughts without rising. If she gets out of bed, she knows it will be difficult to get back into sleep.

Personally, I keep a paper and pen by my bed for the same reason. But, I have been found writing in the wee hours when the house is still and God speaks to my mind, which is half asleep and empty of the distractions of sun-rise "to do" lists.

Another announced, "I write my books in the shower!" How does she do that without getting the paper wet? Well, she has a pad of paper and pen on the bathroom counter. Her best writing thoughts happen while she is showering, so she jumps out of the shower, writes them down, and jumps back into the shower hoping for more inspiration.

"I write in the shower too! I take bathtub crayons and write my thoughts on the shower wall. On one wall is my book, on the other I write the scripture I am memorizing that week" shared another writing friend. What a great idea! Fill those shower walls with scripture and bless others taking a shower. Plus, you might get some good editing done by fellow family showerers.

This all tickled me, especially since I write bath books and wrote many of my "Splashes of Serenity" reflections while resting in the tub. Hopefully, I didn't resemble the man in the picture, but I did relax in a bubbly brew with pad and pen in hand.

The bathtub--where writers go for inspiration and splashes of serenity. Who knows, there might be a good book in you just waiting for a water birth!

Splashes of Serenity on your day!

Elaine

A Splash That Won't Bring Serenity!

2011-10-18T07:40:00.004-04:00

Would you jump in this lake? Nope!

Dan and I took a hike to Felix Lake in Florida with our son and his wife. Sam and Katie wanted to shock us, I think, and show us the dangers that await so close to their home.

Danger signs are to be obeyed. We wouldn't swim in this lake, but do we splash and play in other waters that cause death?

"Have nothing to do with sexual immorality, impurity, lust, and evil desires.... Because of these sins, the anger of God is coming." Colossians 3:5-6

Whoa! Everybody out of the pool! I don't want to tangle with an alligator or an angry God. Do you?

God says "Have NOTHING to do with sexual immorality..." What part of that verse do we not understand? It's a WARNING sign we need to obey, because that swim not only kills marriages, it chews on our children for dessert!

Want a splash of serenity? Obey Colossians 3.

Blessings as we swim around those thoughts!

Elaine

Announcing the April 1, 2012 Birth of My Next Book!!!

2011-10-13T09:39:00.000-04:00

"I can't believe you are sitting in my living room in your pajamas negotiating a book contract with your agent!" My daughter-in-law's reaction to the call telling me a publisher was sending a contract for my next book made us both laugh. Woo Hoo! If I had known, I would have dressed for the occasion.

Celebrate and pray with me as we plan the April 1 release of We All Married Idiots: Three Things You'll Never Change About Your Marriage and Ten Things You Can.

Martin Luther said, "If you want to change the world, pick up your pen." My prayer is that the words from my pen will change marriages and, thus, change the world. Afterall, that is why I write.

Have you considered picking up a pen? Perhaps you like the world the way it is, but I doubt it.

Thank you, everyone, for your daily encouragement to me. You are splashes of serenity to my soul!

Elaine

Happy Birthday to My Hubby

2011-10-09T01:00:00.006-04:00

To my wonderful man,

I just want to ROAR
I'm so happy you're 64!
Life with you is never a bore.

My love for you goes to my core.
You make me laugh til my tummy's sore.
Your kisses take my feet off the floor.
I love you deeply, that's for sure.

You know, we still have lots to explore.
Hawaii to tour.
Airplanes to soar.
Yummy food--give me more!
Greens to yell, "Fore!"
Fly-fish a Montana shore.
Let's go to Italy and "amore!"

Grandbabies to adore.
God keeps giving us more and more!

I thank Him for you with a big High Five
Knowing it will be even better when you're 65.

Thanking God for the splash of serenity He gave me when He gave me you,

Your Elaine

God Doesn't Play Games!

2011-10-05T10:37:00.000-04:00

Loved this photo of my husband playing Hide-and-Go-Seek with our grandchildren. I looked at it and thought:

I can't really play hide and seek with God. He knows exactly where I am and what I am doing. In fact, He promises He'll never leave me.

So, if you are playing games with God and, you think He doesn't know where you are every minute of every day, remember, He is right there beside you. He's holding on to you and He'll never let go.

That brings me comfort and a splash of serenity in these days.
Hope it does to you as well. I'd love to hear from you how God showed up when you thought He was missing.

Blessings,

Elaine

My Birthday Poem to Me

2011-10-01T01:00:00.004-04:00

With a big "Yippee!"
And a Happy Birthday to me!
I'm thankful to say I'm 63!

I feel so free!
Finally figured out God's will for me.
Don't feel bad, I plea.
I'm glad to be alive, you see.

And so much more to be!
Oh my, still haven't snorkeled the Caribean sea!
More grandbabies to hold on my knee.
Lots of meals to eat at the Senior's fee.
No problem putting a golf ball on its tee.
Still lovin' my hubby--hee, hee, hee!

I thank God for thee
Who have walked roads with me.
Thanks for your prayers and cups of tea.
You are all so special--golly!
I'm blessed by your love unconditionally.

Life is all just Splashes of Serenity!

Looking forward with glee
To 12 months more
When I can announce I'm 64!

Happy Birthday to me!

Elaine

Please Get Squished and Squeezed--PLEASE!

2011-09-27T17:53:00.001-04:00

Today I got squished. I wasn't looking forward to it, but breast cancer is a killer. I know. Too many women dear to me died of breast cancer--young.
Several left earth before 40--the age we are advised to get our first mammogram.

So girls, just because you are younger than 40, don't think you are safe. If there is no cancer in your family, don't be sure you are blessed with good genes. Some of my friends passed away with their healthy mothers and grandmothers grieving by their bedsides. Please check your breasts and see a doctor immediately if you feel a lump. I beg you to do this so your name doesn't appear on my heart as one who died too soon.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. We can do a lot to raise awareness: people run races for the cure, writers blog about being squished, pink is everywhere, women wear pink bracelets, pink nail polish, have pink parties in October. It's all good.

The most important thing you can do is not talk, but act. Go get that mammogram and then announce it to the world with your pretty pink toes.

If you live in Rome, NY, treat yourself to a pink pedicure at Shear Image on Turin Road. During October they are donating half the price of each pedicure to Breast Cancer Research. Good for them!!!

Love you, girlfriends. I want to have you around a long time. Be a splash of serenity to me and comment on this post that "Yes, indeed, I had a mammogram this month."

Remembering my special friends now in Heaven. I write this for them and I write this for you,

Elaine

A Year That Could Change Your Life

2011-09-23T08:26:00.002-04:00

This photo reminds me of me 31 years ago. Great with child, I accepted Christ as my Savior. I've never been the same.

For years I read stuff. Starving for truth I decided that year I would read nothing but the Bible. No TV, newspapers, magazines--only the Bible. I devoted one year to filling myself with what I hungered for--God and His Word to me. It was the best year of my life.

So good, I decided to do the same for a second year.

What did this mean to my family? I told my friend this story. As I told her about the Baby born in my heart, I continued telling her about the baby born from my womb. Gentle, kind, and loving he rarely gave us trouble. An extraordinary son, for sure. I take no parenting credit. All I was doing was reading the Bible.

My friend responded, "Well look what his mother was doing for the first two years--the most formative years--of his life? Think about the tranquility that must have been in your home when you left the world behind and only sought God?"

Reading God's Word can change your life. At the end of those two years God called us into full-time ministry. I often wonder if I would have heard that call had I been reading the newspaper instead of the Bible.

We read so much junk. Please, read His Word and see the difference a regular devotional time with Him makes in your life and the lives of your family. Perhaps you'll take my challenge to read nothing but the Bible for a year. I guarantee more than a splash of serenity--a deluge is more like it.

Blessings,

Elaine

You Can Learn A Lot About Life in a Cemetery

2011-09-20T16:53:00.001-04:00

Walking through the local cemetery is peaceful. It's quiet. It gives me reason to contemplate life.

Today, I looked at the tombstones and wondered if each person fulfilled the potential God had for them. Or, were they distracted by worldy pleasures, financial endeavors, or the next good time. How little those things matter when your head is layed to rest.

Rebuked, I realized I'm not responsible for a deceased being's good or bad works. I'm responsible for me.

So, what did I learn in the cemetery?

1. A lot of tombstones have "Mom" written on them. Not one says, "Super Model."

2. Some die young. That doesn't mean they didn't fulfill God's plan for them.

3. Some die old. That doesn't mean they did fulfill God's plan for them.

4. The largest monuments can appear cold and barren.

5. The smallest grave can be filled with bouquets.

At the end of my days, I hope my great-grandchildren dance on my tombstone as God welcomes me Home with a "Well Done!"

Today, I thank God for life and pray for obedience to accomplish His plan for me on this earth. That's all I want. That's enough. It's a Splash of Serenity that just keeps on splashing to the next generation!

Looking forward to Heaven when my work is done on earth,

Elaine

A Fork and Forgiveness

2011-09-14T20:01:00.002-04:00

Do I dare admit I sat down to dinner, placed my fork on my lap, and attempted to eat with my napkin. When we realized what I had done, Dan and I laughed and laughed. Beats crying.

I am convinced this was not a Senior moment, but a Heavenly one. So, I asked God what I was to learn from this. Here's what He told me:

Oops! In a moment, I made a mistake. I didn't plan to put my fork on my lap. When I woke up in the morning, it wasn't my goal to make a fool of myself. But I did. It happened so fast. It was funny and harmless.

Not all mistakes are funny or harmless. Some hurt. Yet the Bible says "All of us make a lot of mistakes...." James 3:2 (GWT). A lot of mistakes require a lot of forgiveness. Whether putting your fork on your lap or your foot in your mouth, be ready to ask forgiveness and extend forgiveness. The people in your world don't get up with thoughts of making you miserable. Yet, it happens. When it does, please forgive--as Christ forgave you.

A simple thing like forgiveness will fill this world and your life with splashes of serenity.

BTW, I learned from my mistake. My napkin sat nicely on my lap tonight. There's a lesson there too.

Love ya,

Elaine

Keep Those Wedding Anniversaries Coming!

2011-09-13T10:06:00.002-04:00

Dan and I enjoyed a special weekend away celebrating our 41st anniversary at the Miller family camp in the Adirondack Mountains. I'm a simple girl. There's no place I'd rather be than cozied up with my honey in the woods.

I smiled when I woke our first morning away. My love rose early and picked wild flowers for me. He knows they are my favorites! My wedding bouquet was all daisies.

I laughed when I saw our unity candle on the table. Immediately, I flashed back 41 years to my wedding day when that candle (which has burned for 41 anniversaries) was about 1/4 inch from catching my wedding veil on fire. Witnesses simultaneously gasped, "Your veil!" Funny now to remember.

Marriage can be difficult. On those days, it's good to remember events can be bloopers, but your marriage is not. It is ordained by God. Treasure it. Keep those candles burning and flowers blooming.

So, what's your wedding blooper? I'd love a good laugh today.

Splashes of Serenity to you as you remember that special day in your life when God joined you as one. It's not always an easy road, but so worth it!

Elaine

The Secret of Serenity--A Glimpse Into my Journal

2011-09-06T14:51:00.001-04:00

For one who proclaims "Splashes of Serenity," I confess my life is not always serene. I don't like that, and so for the past two weeks I've been in the mountains seeking God. Hallelujah! I found Him!

The first and last days of my vacation journal tell the secret of serenity God revealed to me.

Day 1: I wrote, "I want all of God--all of Him. I don't want to die not becoming all He has for me--to know Him--to impact the world for Christ. What must I do to be all, to know all, to live all for Christ?

Why fill my mind with the mindless? He has given me a mind He wants to fill with Himself.

Clutter--I must rid myself of clutter--those Christ-less things that shoo God out of my heart and mind."

I sat in church the last Sunday away and sang, "Crown Him Lord of All." Tears dropped on my cheeks as I realized the answer to my seeking prayers. I wrote in my journal:

Day 17: "Crown Him Lord of ALL! What does that mean? Lord of my television. Lord of my time. Lord of my mind. Lord of my day. Lord of my money. Lord of my marriage. Lord of my pen. Lord of my tongue. Lord of my body. Lord of my thoughts. Lord of my heart. Lord of interruptions. Lord of my disappointments and Lord of my sorrows. Lord of ALL!

And then serenity won't be a splash, but a beautiful, sweet, and pure ever-flowing stream."

That's my secret to serenity. Crown Him Lord of ALL!

A funny thing happened while writing this post. A water pipe under my sink burst flooding my bathroom, the hall, and seeping an inch of water into my basement. I looked at that pipe gushing water and had no idea how to stop it. Fortunately, Dan was home for lunch. He turned off the water and is presently wet vacuuming our house.

Sometimes serenity comes quietly and sometimes it bursts the pipes. As I cleaned the mess under my sink, I realized how clean my cupboard was after being hosed down by a water pipe. It needed cleaning--just like I did two weeks ago. When God bursts our pipes, remember He's cleaning us out so He can fill us with Himself.

As for me, I want all of Him and pray I give all to Him. Bring on the water, Lord! Fill me! Clean Me! Wipe me up! Use me!

May your Splashes of Serenity be a never-ending flow of His grace!

Elaine

Don't Miss The Little Things That Make Life Big

2011-08-20T06:54:00.001-04:00

My daughter, Elizabeth, lives life to the full! See for yourself on her blog, www.DandelionsAcre.blogspot.com
She came for a visit carrying her six children (the youngest still being knit), and the book, 1,000 Gifts by Ann Voskamp.

Intrigued by this New York Times Bestseller, I read a few pages, put it down, and ordered my own copy to soak in every word during my vacation.

Because I don't want to miss anything in life, I go on vacation taking my hubby, my Bible, my journal, our kayaks, s'more swords, Bananagrams, and 1000 Gifts. Looking forward to holding my kids and grandkids and creating more than 1,000 memories that won't be forgotten. Praising God and expecting a great splash of serenity!

Please watch the above You-tube. Don't miss the serenity in the splashes of your life,

Elaine

Christians and Sex

2011-08-17T12:07:00.001-04:00

Not a fan of "The View," but I turned it on this morning (while ironing) to hear Whoppi say some psychologist has decided atheists have better sex than Christians. The conversation deteriorated from there.

I disagree with this psychologist, but if he or she is right, then I am sad that the world view of sex has entered the Christian bedroom.

Hollywood did not invent sex. God did.

Hear what God says: "The husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband. The wife's body does not belong to her alone but also to her husband. In the same way, the husband's body does not belong to him alone but also to his wife. Do not deprive each other except by mutual consent and for a time, so that you may devote yourselves to prayer. Then come together again...." 1 Cor 7:3-6 (NIV)

Here the apostle Paul instructs married couples to pray together after making love. Then after prayer, go back to making love!

Woo Hoo, God! His intent is clear. Intimacy with our spouse is a physical and a spiritual blessing from Him. One that an atheist knows little about.

What are your thoughts?

Portions of this blog were taken from my book, Splashes of Serenity: Bathtime Reflections for Drained Wives. Ten percent of this book deals with sexual intimacy. It's obviously a Hot Topic!

May there be Splashes of Serenity in your marriage today!

Elaine

Prayer That Transforms Your Marriage and Your Family

2011-08-17T08:54:00.001-04:00

The world is a mess! Marriages are crumbling and families are falling apart. Governments are collapsing while citizens die in the streets they called "home." Whose to blame for this? Well, if you listen to politicians or to a domestic dispute; it's, most likely, "the other guy."

People are so quick to point the finger at someone else instead of asking God to point the finger at them.

The Psalmist David got it right when he wrote Psalm 139: "Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life."

As we ask God to search us, know us, test us, point out what offends, and lead us, we'll change and so will our marriages, our families, and our world. Now, that's a splash of serenity we could all use! Thanks, David. Thanks, God.

I'm speaking on "Prayer that Transforms Your Marriage" and "Prayer that Transforms Your Family" at the Prayer That Transforms Conference in Batavia, NY, September 9 and 10, 2011. Dave Butts (Chairman of the National Prayer Committee) and Jonathan Graf (President of the Church Prayer Leaders Network) are the keynote speakers. For more information, please call 1-800-217-5200. I'd love to meet you there.

Do you know a prayer that transforms or have a testimony of how prayer transformed your marriage or family? Please share what God did for you. I'd love to use it in my seminars. Thanks.

Splashes of Serenity prayed for your day!

Elaine

Why Do I Write?

2011-08-14T15:50:00.000-04:00

My head is spinning, my heart is soaring, my spirit is thankful. Here are some of the splashes of serenity God gave me at last week's Greater Philadelphia Christian Writer's Conference.

1. A conferee said, "My child has Downs Syndrome. You wouldn't believe the discouraging things people have said to me. I read your book and thought, This author gets it. She understands. Your 'Drained Moms' book gave me hope and I just want to thank you." We both cried and hugged and I prayed for her child and for her.

2. Another conferee caught up with me in the cafeteria saying, "I gave your book for 'Drained Wives' to my niece who was leaving her husband. She read your book and decided to stay with her husband. Hallelujah and thank you!" I couldn't even eat my lunch after that splash!

3. Four publishers are interested in publishing my next book. If you are led, please pray for me and the publishers to know God's will. Thank you.

Why do I write? I write to change lives and lead people to their only hope--Jesus Christ. Last week God confirmed my call to write His Answer. Perhaps God is calling you? Is he? Let me know. I'll pray for you.

Thanking God for my readers--the sweetest splashes of serenity of all.

Elaine

Overcoming the Fear of Public Speaking

2011-08-09T06:22:00.002-04:00

Eighty percent of people suffer from stage fright. Why? Well, perhaps because "We get it wrong nearly every time we open our mouths..." James 3:2 (The Message). I laugh when I read that verse. God knows us so well.

I was one of those 80 percent. Going to a PTA meeting where I might be asked my opinion brought on anxiety attacks. I physically could not open my mouth. Those who know me now, find that hard to believe!

When my husband entered the ministry, all of that changed. Our first church asked me to speak at their Mother/Daughter banquet. I had never spoken in public--ever. 330 women were in the audience. That is 660 eyes looking at me and 660 ears listening to me. Panic!

My sweet mother-in-law settled me down with the words, "Remember, every person out there loves you." I calmed my nerves with her words and my thoughts that every person out there is thanking God they aren't the person holding this microphone.

My mother-in-law was correct. They laughed at my jokes and wiped their tears right on cue. The night was life-changing for me. I've been speaking ever since and loving it!

This week at the Greater Philadelphia Christian Writer's Conference I have the joy of teaching, "A Writer Speaks." My seminar handouts and a CD of "A Writer Speaks" is available to purchase. If interested, please e-mail me at SplashesofSerenity@yahoo.com. Cost is $5 plus $2.50 S&H.

If you are asked to speak (and most of us will be), remember that every person out there loves you. And if they don't; well, God loves you, and He already knows we get it wrong nearly every time we open our mouths. LOL! He can help us get over those jitters as we trust Him to get it right in people's hearts.

Thanks for your prayers for me this week. I'll be meeting with publishers and editors and hoping for a bite on my next book.

You are a splash of serenity and a huge encouragement in my life,

Elaine

God Never Says "Oops!"

2011-08-05T11:11:00.008-04:00

AT his birth we didn't know if Garrett would survive. Today he is ten! Born with facial and other deformities that doctors didn't understand and could not fix, Garrett's birth has been an adventure we would not have missed. Why? Because Garrett is a treasure that touched our world.

This big 10 year old has taught me more about Jesus, than any other human.
The love in his heart exceeds any other heart I have ever known.
Thank You, God, for this extraordinary gift named Garrett.

I wrote about the day of his birth in, Splashes of Serenity: Bathtime Reflections for Drained Moms.

"What was God doing the day He knit Garrett in his mother's womb? Was He so busy solving other problems that he missed a few stitches? How easy for God to correct such a simple mistake. Perhaps God was preoccupied putting extra stitches in Garrett's beautiful heart....

My grandson was born with a cleft lip and palate. (Later, we learned of other medical concerns.) Everyone was surprised. The ultrasound did not show it; the doctors and nurses even missed it at Garrett's delivery. His mother was the first to notice as she attempted to nurse her son. Her hungry boy could not suck. As she gazed at her precious child, she was assured that God knit him perfectly in her womb. God did not say, 'Oops! I missed a stitch.'"

You can see the peace in Elizabeth's and Joe's faces as they hold their new-born gift. How? Why? Because they knew without a doubt that God was not surprised. God knit Garrett perfectly the way God wanted Garrett knit. He didn't say, "Oops! I missed a stitch."

Today, I thank God for Garrett's life. And I wonder how many Garrett's have been aborted? How many Garrett's are gone because someone thought God made a mistake. No, God never says "Oops!"

May the truth that God never says "Oops!" be a splash of serenity to you today.

Elaine

Africa--Where God Took My Heart and Enlarged It.

2011-08-03T10:51:00.000-04:00

Ten years ago today I left the comforts of the USA and flew to Gabon, Africa. Thanking God for the work He did in me on that trip, I write this post.

Africa was my dream. I hoped to serve God there, but those doors closed. My dream became reality when I was invited to Gabon to teach Vacation Bible School. I was there two weeks. It changed my life.

I enjoyed monkeys and exotic birds, the lush rain forest and exquisite coast. Riding an airplane with no seatbelts and a pig walking down the aisle as we landed on a dirt runway, was unforgettable.

I loved it all, but what I loved most is what God etched in my heart. I hope the following gives you pause to ponder:

1. When you possess very little, there is little to distract you from loving God.

2. Having one dress and one pair of shoes, gives you less time to consider what you will wear and more time to serve God.

3. People who have only scraps of food will prepare a feast for you.

4. Worship in a simple structure with a dirt floor can be more powerful than in a grand cathedral.

5. Jesus is present in the simple as well as the elegant.

6. The mere mention of the Name, "Jesus" brings smiles of peace and joy and hope to those who know suffering.

7. Never again will I walk into my closet and think I have nothing to wear or walk into my pantry and say, "There's nothing to eat."

8. Having very little can mean having very much.

May simple things bring you serenity today,

Elaine

Drowning in Despair? Here is a Splash of Serenity for You!

2011-08-02T09:55:00.001-04:00

Need some serenity as you take the heat? Feel like you are drowning in the despair of the day? Going through deep waters and barely keeping afloat?

News Splash! God's Hand is holding yours and He won't let go!

This photo of my friend's baby and husband taken at Ithaca Falls brought to mind a favorite scripture for when I need a Splash of Serenity. I pray it encourages you.

"But now, this is what the Lord says--
'Fear not,
I have summoned you by name;
you are mine.
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;
and when you pass through the rivers,
they will not sweep over you....
Since you are precious and honored in my sight, and because I love you,....
Do not be afraid, for I am with you;...
No one can deliver out of my hand....'" Isaiah 43:1- (NIV)

Ahh! Refreshing! I feel better all ready. Don't you?

Fill your day with God's Splashes of Serenity. He never met us to be overwhelmed with problems. He holds us up. He is our life preserver--He is all we need to keep afloat.

So splash! Don't let today's troubles overtake you. You are HIS! So grab God's Hand, jump in and enjoy a swim with Jesus.

What gives you a splash of serenity on a difficult day? I'd love to know. Let us encourage each other.

Elaine

Be Careful What You Let In Your Pants--You Could Really Get Stung!

2011-07-28T18:20:00.003-04:00

A funny thing happened on my way to dine finely. Lunching on the terrace over looking the lake, enjoying the good company of friends, and fine food, I was aghast when a bug flew down my blouse. Being Elaine, I made matters worse by jumping up and down and flailing my arms. Proud of myself that I did not scream; although, I did notice annoying looks from well- dressed people whose lunch had been disrupted. The bug seemed to disappear and I sat down with apologies to all.

Standing to depart, I realized that the bug had somehow squirmed its way out of my blouse and was now inside my pants. A bug in one's blouse is one issue, a pest in one's pants takes this to a whole new level. I still did not scream--I think I was too terrified of what was crawling around my undergarments. Calmly, hoping no one would notice, I put my hand down my pants and retrieved Mr. Japanese beetle himself. Don't ask me why I didn't go to the ladies room to do this. I didn't think of it. I reacted. I wanted the bug out of my britches.

Now that the insect is far away, I laugh at the day's event. Being a writer, I know God lets these things happen to me so I can write about them and make a spiritual application. On my bike ride it came to me.

Please listen young people, it is a fast track from point A to point B. A hand down a blouse becomes a hand down one's pants before you have time to react. How quickly your life can change and you find yourself in a position you never expected to be in when your day began. Be aware. Don't go there. Be prepared to flail your arms and scream, "no" before you do something you'll regret for the rest of your life.

I know this. When you stand at the altar to marry the love of your life, you'll wish there were no hands who had ever touched you but your husband's. The same goes for the guys. How special your bride will feel knowing she will be the first and the only. It's a decision you will not regret.

Pre-marital sex can seem like a splash of serenity. But it's only a splash. Within seconds the splash is gone and so is the serenity. Be careful what you let in your pants. You could really get stung.

Love you teens. Praying for you,

Elaine

Getting a Book Published 101

2011-07-26T17:21:00.002-04:00

Every writer dreams of a book signing at Barnes & Nobel with strangers standing in line for an autographed copy. Please don't wake me up! Today you sit at a computer with an idea in hopes that one day you'll sit in a book store signing your book? How do you get from here to there? I've blogged about this before, so check my previous posts. Today I give some more thoughts because last week I was asked twice, "How do I get my book published?"

1. Go to a Writer's Conference. They are all over the USA, so google and find the one that best meets your needs.

2. Learn how to write a query letter and a book proposal. The best place to learn this is guess where? Right! A Writer's Conference. You can also learn this online. www.MichaelHyatt.com is a great resource for learning the publishing business.

3. Get an agent. How? Go to a writer's conference or mail your query and your proposal to an agent. But, at a writer's conference the agent meets you face to face, realizes you aren't a serial killer, and your opportunities for a contract increase. Plus, attending a writer's conference demonstrates your commitment to invest in your career. Red flag any agent who wants you to pay them. A legitimate agent receives a percentage of your advance and your royalties. They receive nothing until they sell your book to a publisher. If an agent asks for money upfront, please flee.

4. Get published in a magazine or in a book compilation. Book publishers want to see some sort of resume. Start with articles. How do you do that? Well, you'll never guess. I sold my first article to "Salvation Army War Cry" and had 8 small devotionals published in Penned From the Heart
when I met the editors at Montrose Christian Writer's Conference. Am I making a point?

5. Obtain a copy of "Writer's Market." This is a thick book published each year with lists of magazines, book publishers, and other markets where you can sell your writing. All libraries should have it, so take a look.

6. Read, read, read. Read books in your genre. Read books on writing. Two books I try to read every year are: "On Writing Well" by William Zinsser, and "The Elements of Style" by Strunk and White. "Bird by Bird" by Anne Lamott and "Run With the Horses" by Eugene H. Peterson are great encouragers to writers--and we all need encouraging. This is not an easy business.

7. Write, write, write. Write everyday and, thereby, hone your craft. You don't have time? Do you have an hour? Write an hour a day. Or, write a page a day. The average book has 120 pages. Your first draft is finished in 120 days if you write only one page a day.

8. Develop a platform. Publishers want writers who can sell their product. Start speaking on the subject of your book. Blog. Create a website. Become an expert in social networking. Just today I listened to a radio interview, made a comment on facebook about the interview, and the person being interviewed wrote back asking to interview me. Networking sells books. Publishers like authors who can sell books.

9. Educate yourself. The internet is filled with tips for writers. I try to read something every day that will make me a better writer.

10. Join a Writer's Group. The creative energy in a room full of writers is contagious. They will see things in your writing that you missed. I blogged about this previously.

"Marketing Your Ministry" and "A Writer Speaks" are two classes I teach at writer's conferences. For $5 each plus $2.50 shipping, I'll send you a CD and email you the notes that went with the class. That could be your first step in educating yourself. Comment below or send an email to SplashesofSerenity@yahoo.com if you would like to purchase a CD.

Remember, writing is not about ego. Writing is a calling. If God wants your book in print, it will happen. Our job is to do it as unto the Lord and put forth our best writing and the greatest product so lives will be transformed.

Enjoy your journey! It's hard work. Some days are discouraging. But, the first e-mail that arrives saying your book changed a life makes it all worth it. I hope to see you at Barnes & Noble--I'll be first in line!

Any questions? Please ask. I'd love to help you.

I'm also interested in any books you've read that have helped you become a better writer. Let me know please.

That's my Splash of Serenity for writers today.

Elaine

What Will Your Children Remember on Your 90th Birthday?

2011-06-30T14:27:00.002-04:00

What do you give your mother on her 90th birthday? My five siblings and I compiled a book of the lifetime memories that meant the most to us. Looking over the 188 events that were unforgettable, I was surprised at the simple things, the little things, that shaped our lives. Here are a few:

Watching Mom and Dad plant marigolds all around the little side patio.

Sitting on Dad's lap watching TV.

Peeling apples with mom on the back porch.

Aunt Velma's jokes and fried pies.

Hot fudge sundaes after every doctor's appointment.

Sharing a hymnbook with Dad singing, "What A Friend We Have in Jesus."

Lilacs ouside the kitchen window and lily of the valley in front of the porch.

Sunday night Charades.

Mom drying underwear inside the oven.

Combing Dad's and Mom's hair and making them look silly.

Mom scrubbing the dark blue linoleum on her hands and knees.

Getting up early with Dad to have coffee with dunk bread.

Weeding the garden.

Dad frying his home grown egg plant.

Standing on the sofa, looking out the window, waiting for Dad to come home.

Picking bing cherries and selling them.

Tent camping.

Swinging on the Maple Tree swing.

Roller skating in the basement.

Watching Grandma Wolford stoke the wood stove, so she could make Mothers Oats.

Melting Hershey bars for hot fudge sundaes.

Mom delivering pie to Mrs. Snuth.

Riding up and down the dental chair at Grandad Wolford's house.

Cold, snowy nights. The comfort and peace of the house.

Saying bedtime prayers with Mom.

Parents today work hard to give their children the best in life. My parents did too. But the best in life comes from the simple things that splash us with serenity when we don't even realize it. Then 90th birthdays arrive and we remember, and we say, "Thanks, Mom and Dad, for our wonderful life. We were blessed by you."

What's your unforgettable childhood memory? I suspect it came unexpectedly, perhaps unplanned, and it didn't cost a dime.

Keep life simple! That's my Splash of Serenity to you today.

Elaine

Why I Love Delta Lake Family Camp!

2011-06-22T10:05:00.000-04:00

Splash! Tubing on Delta Lake is fun and refreshing. It gives a whole new perspective to a hot day. I'm looking forward to enjoying Delta Lake and the Bible Conference Center in my back yard. Won't you enjoy it too at Family Camp, July 1-9! Here are just a few things I look forward to during Delta Lake Bible Conference Center's Family Camp:

Dr. John Stumbo will immerse us in God's Word as our evening speaker. After hearing Dr.Stumbo speak at Council in Kansas City, I’m hungry to hear more of the awesome truths God is teaching him through his healing process. If you’ve missed John’s blog, you’ve missed a blessing. Check it out at www.JohnStumbo.org.

Alliance Women’s Summer Renew Celebration on July 3 at 3:00 has me eager to hear from the many International Workers I love and pray for! We welcome Becky Dyke from the Dominican Republic, Becky Mindek from Black Forest Academy and Macedonia, Kathy Eikost from Bosnia/Herzegovina, Sue Stern from Argentina, and Missy Davis from Dalat School. Woo Hoo!!! This is going to be good.

I look forward to welcoming Pastors’ Wives and Women Official Workers to my home at 8933 Lakeview Drive for tea on Tuesday, July 5 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. This annual event is a highlight for me. Come and fellowship together and hear Kathy Eikost share from her heart especially to women in ministry.

The Second Annual Upstate New York Christian Writers’ Gathering is happening July 7-8! I look forward to the line up of speakers as well as teaching a seminar myself on “A Writer Speaks.” Last year’s Gathering bore much fruit for God's Kingdom. Writers came out of their shells and are winning the race toward publication for the glory of God. For information on this Gathering, please contact Debbie Tuthill at dtuthill@hotmail.com or call her at 607-829-8531.

And to top it all off, what would Family Camp be without my grandchildren! You’ll hear them, I’m sure. Bring it on!!! Tubing, here we come!

There is so much more happening. Don’t miss the fun, the teaching, the campfires, the 4th of July celebration, the worship of our King! I thank God for Delta Lake and it’s ministry to our District Family and to me personally. July 1 – 9 are days at Delta you won’t want to miss. For more information please see www.Deltalake.org.

I'd love to hear why you love Delta Lake.

A blessed summer to you,
Elaine

Are you a writer? Then You Need a Group!

2011-06-21T11:34:00.001-04:00

Diane Estrella and I at the Upstate New York Christian Writers' Gathering. Diane was the first member of our writer's group. See her website at www.DianeEstrella.com. She is an amazing writer and friend.

Words are powerful. As writers of books or blogs or facebook comments or tweets, what we say influences the world. Our thoughts matter and we need to write our best to make our points clear.

Writers are warned not to publish without allowing other eyes to read what they wrote. Eyes you trust; eyes that will be honest and not flatter. Beware of family members who may be a bit biased about your story.

I am blessed by my writer's group. We call ourselves a group because we admit to needing therapy--counselling, encouragement, and a safe place to voice our frustrations and our joys. We don't like the word, "critique" because we want to encourage each other without being critical.

After last year's Upstate New York Christian Writers' Gathering held at Delta Lake Bible Conference Center, I put the word out that I would like to meet with other writers. Our group has grown from four to eight and is one of the highlights of my month. Two travel 1 1/2 hours to attend.

A lot of talent and energy fill my family room during our meeting. The stories written are heart-wrenching tales the world needs to read. For 2 1/2 hours we laugh, cry, pray, suggest, correct, edit, praise, and marvel at each other's work.

If you are a writer, it is essential you find or start a group. Here's how to keep it simple:

1. Invite writers! They are out there and they have friends who write.

2. Adopt an easy format:

Our evening begins with 30 minutes of coffee and conversation. Announcements are made regarding rejections, submissions, anything learned since last month regarding the publishing industry, any good or bad news regarding your writing, etc.

Afterwards, each person is given 15 minutes to use as they choose. (I'm the official time keeper, otherwise known as, "Sarge.")

During the 15 minutes, someone else may read aloud what you are writing and then edits, comments, suggestions, corrections, and praises are discussed. It is helpful if every person has a copy of your work in hand while it is being read.

Or, you can use your 1/4 of an hour to ask questions. One used her time to ask how to set up a blog. We all helped her and now her blog is up and running.

If you want to pass on your 15 minutes, you can give it to the person of your choosing.

3. Watch the publications begin! I was in a writer's group in Horseheads, NY. After three years every person attending was a published author. In my Rome group,in one year we have seen some published because of contacts made and suggestions given at our Writer's group.

I thank God for the gift of writing. I thank Him for the stories He gave to us all. No one can write your story, but you. Won't you consider writing? Won't you use your pen to reach the world for Christ?

I'll be teaching "A Writer Speaks!" at two writer's conferences this summer. The Upstate New York Christian Writers' Gathering at Delta Lake Bible Conference Center, Rome, NY, July 7-8. Contact Debbie Tuthill for details and registration: dtuthill@hotmail.com or telephone at 607-829-8531. And on August 10-13 at the Greater Philadelphia Christian Writer's Conference. See www.writehisanswer.com for more info. Hope to see you there!

Writing is a Splash of Serenity to the writer's and the reader's soul!

Elaine

The Greatest Gift a Father Gives to His Children

2011-06-13T11:46:00.001-04:00

When your parenting journey is over, how will your children remember you?

My father's influence in my life was huge! Dad loved to laugh and play, and we did. He listened to me, cried with me, guided me, and loved me when I was good and when I was naughty. He disciplined me (usually with a smile since he seemed to enjoy my antics), but he never made me feel bad about myself. He built me up when others put me down. I loved my dad and he loved me.

The day he died, I held his motionless hand and heard his last breath. It was a beautiful moment in a hospital room filled with family and Jesus. I grieved and realized There was not one second of my life that I didn't know my father loved me. What a gift Dad gave to me--the greatest gift of all--his unconditional love.

Seconds into my sad reality of life without my dear, fun, sweet dad, God zapped a warm message to my heart: Elaine, you still have a Father--and there's not a second of your life I have not loved you. What a blessing God gave to me when He comforted my sorrow with that beautiful truth.

Miss you, Dad. Miss your love, Dad. Miss our talks and walks and hugs. Just miss YOU!!! Thankful for a Heavenly Father Who continues to love and guide and give advice and hugs and laughs with me. I am blessed.

Fathers, what will your little girls remember about you? Be a splash of serenity to your children. Don't let one second of their lives go by without them knowing you love them.

"Three things will last forever--faith, hope, and love--and the greatest of these is love." ~ 1 Corinthians 13:13 (NLT)

Love is the greatest gift a dad and The Father gives His children.

Thanking God for my earthly father and my Heavenly Father on this Father's Day and feeling very loved!

Elaine

Writing a Book? Want it Published? Here's How.

2011-06-07T14:27:00.005-04:00

"I want to write a book. How do I get it published? What do I do next?" I asked those questions years ago when I wanted to write a book. Now, as an author, those are the questions I am most frequently asked. My answer, "Go to a Writer's Conference. You will learn the basics of the writing and publishing business; meet editors, publishers, agents, and authors; and get a good dose of laughter and inspiration rubbing shoulders with fellow writers."

Here are three I attended and I recommend:

MONTROSE CHRISTIAN WRITER'S CONFERENCE, Montrose, PA, July 24-29, 2011. This is where I got my start, sold my first article which became the first chapter of my first book, taught my first writer's classes, and met authors who became dear friends. The above You Tube was taken at Montrose last summer. I entered beautiful Dreyer Hall hungry for dinner and met James Willis, a fellow faculty member, hankering for an interview. Montrose Christian Writer's Conference is a fun and a beautiful place to take the next step on your writing journey. www.Montrosebible.org/writers.htm

UPSTATE NEW YORK CHRISTIAN WRITERS' GATHERING, Delta Lake Bible Conference, Rome, NY, July 7-8. This Gathering is held literally in my back yard on the shores of beautiful Delta Lake. Three years ago David Fessenden and Debbie Tuthill approached me separately (they had never met) with the vision of having a writer's conference at Delta Lake. God's Hand was on this. The response to this gathering exceeded our expectations and we look forward to our Second Annual Gathering next month. http://fromconcepttocontract.com/wp-content

GREATER PHILADELPHIA CHRISTIAN WRITERS CONFERENCE, Philadelphia Biblical University, Langhorne, PA, August 10-13. A larger conference with publishers, editors, agents, and authors galore. This is where I met my agent, Diana Flegal from Hartline Literary Agency. More information at www.writehisanswer.com/Philadelphia

This summer I am teaching at the Upstate New York Christian Writers Gathering and at the Greater Philadelphia Christian Writers Conference. I'd love to meet you there.

God has placed a passion in my heart to encourage Christian writers to write and to be published. Afterall, if Christians stop writing, what is left for people to read? Only you can tell your story and your story can help others live their stories in victory.

If you have any questions about writing or about these conferences, please ask. I'd love to be a Splash of Serenity to your writing dreams.

Keep Writing!

Elaine

Encouragement, Support, and Inspiration for Military Families! "Called to Serve" Book Give Away!

2011-06-01T15:29:00.002-04:00

Are there any families who have it harder than our military families? I don't think so. Deployments, moves, transitions, fear, loneliness, grief, injuries, disabilities, and post-traumatic stress disorder are only a few of the jolts our military families call reality.

Called to Serve written by Lt. Col. Tony and Penny Monetti is a must read for every military family. As the wife of a former Navy officer and the mother of an Air Force JAG, I am aware of the need of this book in the hands and minds of those who sacrifice everything for our freedom.

Lt. Col. Tony Monetti and Penny Monetti know military life. Tony was one of those husbands who came home at night announcing to his Penny and three young children that he must leave in the morning. "I can't tell you where I'll be or how long I'll be gone. It could be a year." Can you imagine getting that eight-hour notice?

Can we who are not in the military even conceive the unique stress our military families endure daily? We can't, but Penny and Tony Monetti can. They've lived it and write about it in their powerful book, Called to Serve. The book ends with 18 pages of resources where our military families can receive further help. What a blessing to every military family!

These men and women sacrifice everything for us. Called to Serve is the Splash of Serenity they'll need to win the war against the destruction of their families. Thank you for helping get this word out. Please repost on your blog or facebook or twitter.

Fantastic Penny and Tony! You have gripped my heart and my prayers for our military families.

If you love our military, please purchase a copy for each military family you know. You can purchase a copy at www.PennyMonetti.com or on www.Amazon.com.

If you would like to enter a book give away to receive a free copy of Called to Serve, please comment to this blog. You can just leave your name, but I'd love to hear who you would like to receive the book and why. A name will be chosen out of my husband's Navy hat. This give away ends on Wednesday, June 8, and will be announced on my blog, June 9, 2011.

CONGRATULATIONS TO ANNE PAYNE--THE WINNER OF THE CALLED TO SERVE GIVEAWAY! May God bless all who read this great book of encouragement for military families.

God bless America and God bless our troops! We love you men and women of the Armed Forces!

Elaine

"Splashes of Serenity: Bathtime Reflections for Drained Wives" Book Giveaway

2011-05-20T14:46:00.000-04:00

CONGRATULATIONS TO AMY BO WHO HAS BEEN CHOSEN TO RECEIVE A FREE COPY OF SPLASHES OF SERENITY: BATHTIME REFLECTIONS FOR DRAINED WIVES! THANKS FOR PARTICIPATING IN THE GIVE AWAY, AMY. BE BLESSED BY THIS BOOK.
What a thrill when Danielle Peters (who heard me speak several years ago) asked permission to quote me in her blog. www.Fancylittlethings.com.

The following quote from my book, Splashes of Serenity: Bathtime Reflections for Drained Wives, spoke to her heart:

"God's Word says 'Examine yourself.' It does not say, 'Examine your spouse.' We are not the Holy Spirit sent to make over our spouses. We're off the hook because that's God's job."

Danielle and I are offering a book giveaway this week of my book, Splashes of Serenity: Bathtime Reflections for Drained Wives.

If you would like opportunity to receive a free copy, keep reading Danielle's challenging words to wives.

Posted by Danielle Peters. Encouraging Our Husbands to Be Leaders {Giveaway Included!}

Dear Danielle…I want my husband to be the spiritual leader in our marriage and family. He didn’t have an example in his own family and doesn’t understand that this is a role God has called him to do or where to start with it. How can I encourage him as his wife to take on this leadership role?

I can tell from the wording of this question that this wife has a heart to encourage her husband. Not to change him, not to nag him, but to be God-honoring in her approach to see her husband embrace his leadership role in the home. That is the first step in this process. If you don’t feel your heart is line with this attitude to encourage, start with some prayer and soul searching. As my friend, Elaine W. Miller wrote in her book Splashes of Serenity: Bathtime Reflections for Drained Wives, “God’s Word says ‘Examine yourself…’. It does not say ‘Examine your spouse’. We are not the Holy Spirit sent to make over our spouses. We’re off the hook because that’s God’s job.” (Earn a chance to win Elaine’s book! See details below!)

Last week’s post had some good examples of what NOT to do. Here I’ll offer some thoughts on ways to encourage our husbands to be leaders in our homes, whether spiritual, financial or other.

• Prayer: There is no more powerful tool that we have to stimulate positive change in our husbands than prayer. Not sure how to pray for your husband? A great resource is The Power of a Praying Wife by Stormie Omartian. Plus, it allows God to continue to speak to us on our attitudes and the steps He may call us to take to help them.

• Affirm Him: Say “thank you” to your husband: for being a provider for your family, for taking care of that little fix-it problem, for leading in the areas he already does. Let him know how much your family needs him and appreciates him. When he knows he is appreciated for what he does do, he will be more motivated to do more for you and the family.

• Make Way: A man will not step into a leadership role that is already being filled. You need to make way for your man to lead. This doesn’t mean just drop the responsibilities you’ve taken on and let them remain neglected until he takes over. What this does mean is that you can draw him into the role and show him his rightful place. Working on finances? Ask him to a little financial meeting to set some family financial goals…and honor his ideas and decisions. Want him to lead family devotional? Begin my initiating them first and then once everyone is involved, take a backseat and allow him to lead the discussion. He may not know where to start, but you can help him.

• Teach Yourself: Do you really understand the roles that God created men to fill? Are your expectations in line with the man God designed your husband to be? Do you understand the ways God made their hearts to come alive? A book that really opened my eyes to understanding men was Wild at Heart by John Eldredge. I truly believe every wife and especially a mother of boys should read this book. And when you finish, maybe it happens to strategically land in a newly cleaned out magazine rack next to “the john”.

Win your own copy of Elaine’s Book, Splashes of Serenity: Bathtime Reflections for a Drained Wife!

Here is how you can win… {each entry requires a separate comment!}

~Mandatory~

1 ~ Follow our blog www.Fancylittlethings.com by submitting your e-mail in the sidebar or adding us to your feed, then come back & comment.

2~ Follow Elaine’s blog, www.ElaineWMiller.blogspot.com by submitting your e-mail in the sidebar or adding her to your feed, then come back & comment.

~Extra~

3~ Follow FancyLittleThings.com on Facebook & share our profile with your friends, then come back & comment.

4~ Follow Elaine W. Miller on Facebook & share our profile with your friends, then come back & comment.

5~ Feature this giveaway on your blog or website and then leave a comment with your website address and we’ll contact you right away!

6~ Leave a comment here answering “What are some successful ways you’ve encouraged your husband to be the leader God called him to be?”

6 entries = 6 comments

Rules: This giveaway will be closed on Wednesday, May 18th at Midnight and the winner will be posted on Thursday, May 19th. You must check the website to win. If the winner chosen does not contact us at danielle@fancylittlethings.com within 24 hours, a new winner will be chosen!

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Carol Kent's Speak Up Seminars--the Most Valuable Week of My Life

2011-05-18T09:43:00.003-04:00

CAROL JUST INFORMED ME THEY HAVE A FEW PARTIAL SCHOLARSHIPS LEFT. IF YOU WANT TO SPEAK YOUR BEST FOR THE LORD, CONTACT, www.CarolKent.org today!

If you ever have a microphone staring at your face, you'll stare back with confidence after attending Carol Kent's Speak Up Seminars.

After the publication of my first book, Splashes of Serenity: Bathtime Reflections for Drained Moms, my speaking invitations increased. Wanting to be the best speaker I could be, I flew to Oregon and attended Carol Kent's Speak Up Seminars. The original and the advanced seminars are held the same week--go to both! It's worth it.

What a week! Carol Kent and her staff taught, critiqued, loved, and prayed me through. I was thrilled to make Carol laugh and cry in each of my three-minute presentations. Of course, that's not too difficult. Carol has a tender and a fun heart.

An added bonus was Carol asking if she could include me as a speaker in her Speak Up Speaker Services. Carol refuses numerous speaking requests each week because of her packed schedule. I thank God that Carol saw the need to train speakers to communicate Christ's message with clarity and power and that she felt my story worthy of Speak Up Speaker Services.

Speak Up will change you. You won't be a speaker--you'll be a communicator. You won't fear an audience--you'll embrace your audience. You won't tell people about Christ--you'll lead people to Christ.

Speak Up is changing lives. I encourage anyone who speaks or who is called by God to speak to attend a Speak Up Seminar. The next one is June 22-25, 2011 in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Please see www.CarolKent.org and hit the Speak Up Seminars tab. Scholarships are available.

I promise. Your confidence in your speaking abilities will change from feeling like someone just dumped a bucket of water over your head to a Splash of Serenity, of course.

Blessings to all who desire to speak God's Word with excellence and for His glory! Go for it!

Elaine

My Mother's Day Dreams Come True

2011-05-02T11:28:00.002-04:00

All I ever wanted was to be a mom. As a child, my Christmas list consisted of one item--a baby doll. No career aspirations for me--I wanted to get married and have babies.

At age 19, having some female issues, I found myself sitting in an OB-GYN office. As though he was telling me "it's raining outside" the doctor gave his matter-of-fact diagnosis: "You'll never be able to have a baby."

Stunned, speechless, numb, I didn't catch the bus to my apartment. I just walked with no destination in mind. Seeing a telephone booth ahead, I entered this private shelter in a public place. Shutting the door, I crouched down, and cried and cried and cried from the most gut-wrenching pain I had ever felt. When I stopped crying, I called my mother, told her the news, and felt her pain and her hugs across the telephone line as she bore this anguish with me. Thank God for Mothers.

Better yet, thank God for God. The doctor was not God. God is God. And God had a better plan for me. God creates our babies in our wombs, He knows the plans He has for me. God's plan for me was to bless me--to give me three gifts--three babies.

I rejoice on Mother's Day that in God's sovereignty, He allowed me to be a Mom. I don't take that lightly. Many don't have this blessing. I, according to that doctor and the second opinion I also received, was not to have babies. What is impossible for a human body (and in the brains of two doctors), is possible for God. Nothing is impossible for Him.

I thank God for my three wonderful children, Joanna, Elizabeth, and Sam--my three treasures--my three surprise gifts. They exceed any expectations I had of the joys of motherhood. Thank You, God, for allowing me the privilege of bearing them and the fun of loving them and enjoying life with each one now grown to adulthood. Thank You, God, for the thousands of kisses and hugs and sweet love they've given back to me. Children truly are a gift to be treasured from You.

Happy Mother's Day, dear Moms. Treasure the blessing of Motherhood God has given to you.

Splashes of Serenity,

Elaine

Splashes of Serenity: Bathtime Reflections for Drained Moms

2011-04-25T08:27:00.004-04:00

This book give away is now closed. And the winner is Mary Jane Russell!!! Congratulations, Mary Jane! Have a SPLASH on Mother's Day!!!

My friend, Diane Estrella reads a reflection from Splashes of Serenity: Bathtime Reflections for Drained Moms.

Please leave a comment on her blog, www.DianeEstrella.com and receive an opportunity for a free book in time for Mother's Day

Have a Splashes of Serenity Day!

Elaine

Easter Just Boggles My Mind

2011-04-20T07:00:00.008-04:00

LENT. Jesus gave His life for me. How could giving up desserts for Him compare? I know my weakness. I'd stuff my tummy full on Ash Wednesday and yearn for Easter Monday when I could do it all over again. Giving up something in hopes that it will please God or help me understand the sacrifice Jesus made for me didn't work at my house. Jesus wants all of me--not just my appetite.

PALM SUNDAY. Branches wave! People praise! Hosanna to the Highest! Where am I in that crowd? Oh, I'd be leading the pack, certainly I would. How I love my Jesus.

THE LAST SUPPER. Solemn. Precious last moments with Jesus. I'd be right there resting my head on Jesus' heart, taking in every last word from His lips. Surely, Lord, I would never leave you.

THE GARDEN. So weak. I'm sure I'd be the first to sleep, and to disappoint, and to let Jesus sweat and pray.

THE CRUCIFIXION. Absolutely, I would not have followed the crowd. I am not ashamed of the Gospel. I'd defend Him. Proclaim Him as my Savior and my God! I would not have yelled, "Crucify Him!" I'm sure, aren't I?

THE RESURRECTION. He's not dead? He's alive! I'm beginning to understand. My mind is a turmoil of emotions and love and commitment and THANKSGIVING to God for His great Salvation Plan.

THE APPEARANCE. Elaine, do you love Me? Elaine, do you truly love Me? Elaine, do you love me more than you love your husband, or your children, or your comforts, or your home, or your wealth, or your position, or your life?

I love You, Lord. I truly love You. Forgive me for all the times I say "I love You" with my lips and disprove it with my thoughts and actions.

I give my whole heart to You knowing that serenity comes from a life crucified with Christ.

Oh Blessed Resurrection Day!

Elaine

My Sin Nailed My Love to a Cross

2011-04-16T23:23:00.003-04:00

The up and down emotions of this Easter week, leave me sad. I can't bear the thought of the One I love most being nailed to a cross. I believe and I rejoice at Jesus' Resurrection, but my sin nailed my Love to a cross. It breaks my heart.

Had I lived in those days, where would I have been that week?

The day He rode a donkey into town, I suspect I would have led the parade of followers celebrating Jesus as the King. The Messiah. The Savior. The One Who came in the Name of the Lord.

And I ask myself, What would I have been doing the following Friday when the crowd shouted, "Crucify Him!"

People cheered Him one week and crucified Him the next. Many who loved Him, abandoned Him. They abandoned Him.

It's unthinkable, but would I have denied Him too? Absolutely not! But isn't that what I do each time I sin? I forget about HIM. I abandon Him. I deny Him. Forgive me, Lord.

I am so sad Jesus had to die, but I am filled with joy! His death led me to God. "For Christ died for sins...to bring you to God." (1Peter 3:18). Hallelujah to my Savior! My King! My Messiah. My Jesus!!!

Jesus is not a splash of serenity. Jesus is my Serenity. Is He yours?

Elaine

Keeping Your Marriage Fresh

2011-04-16T08:00:00.027-04:00

In the busyness of each day it is easy to lose touch with the most important person in your life. Don't let it happen.

An excited husband thanked me for writing an article encouraging married couples to plan a date where their eyes and their thoughts are only on each other. Children, work, church, politics, chores, any bad news will not be topics of conversation. This night is for you! He was all smiles in anticipation of his date night with the love of his life and the attention he would give and receive.

I'm thrilled for this couple and I'm taking my own advice. Tomorrow Dan and I are going on a date. We won't talk about the church, our children, the wall that needs painted, the grass that needs planted, our busy schedules. We'll only focus on each other.

Let me tell you, I have one excited husband on my hands and this one is mine.

Give your marriage a splash of serenity and plan a date night where you refuse to talk about anything but your love and the God Who brought you together. Go ahead--have some fun. As my lawyer son would say, "It's legal!"

Splashes of Serenity prayed for your marriage,

Elaine

A Teenage Pregnancy Wake-up Call

2011-03-24T13:49:00.011-04:00

What do you think of when you hear of unwed teen moms? I confess I haven't given that subject much thought since I breathed a sigh of relief when my own three children walked down the aisle without babies in arms. My opinion changed last week when I spoke to Teen MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers).

Listening to their stories, hearing their concerns, and watching their pain-filled tears, I realized I had it all wrong when it came to teen pregnancy. These girls were precious. They loved their babies and lived to do the right thing. Some were abused by their parents. One found her father dead when she was four years old. Most didn't have nice things to say about the men who fathered their babies or the schools that rejected them or their peers who mocked them by deliberately pushing heavy objects into their blossoming bellies.

These girls sought love and found pain. Society's opinion of them lowered their already low self esteem. These young girls care for their little ones, look into their infant's eyes and pray their child will be free from the pain they feel.

What about us? What can we do to bring a splash of serenity into their impossible-to-imagine young lives? I applaud TeenMOPS and Pregnancy Care Centers who reach out and help. As Christians and as churches let's love these girls and their babies like Jesus loves them--unconditionally.

May the person who is without sin cast that first stone. Afterall, except by the grace of God go I. Praying for hurting girls whose greatest sin is their desire to be loved. May they find that love in us because Jesus lives in our hearts.

Splashes of Serenity,

Elaine

Hold On To Your Marriage! Don't Let Go!

2011-03-24T09:41:00.021-04:00

Elizabeth Taylor was a woman of passion. She married eight times--twice to Richard Burton. She claims Michael Todd and Richard Burton were the loves of her life. Sad that Michael Todd died. Unfortunate that she and Richard just couldn't get along. It's tragic that this great woman of passion searched over and over again for happiness in marriage and she never found it. Asked, if she would marry again, she proclaimed, "Oh no!..."

I'm a little like Elizabeth Taylor. I don't have her talent or her beauty, but I do have her passion for love and for marriage. Today, I thank God that the first and the tenth year of my marriage when I wanted to run, I stayed. I shudder to think what my life would have been had I successfully thrown away this dear man I adore.

Thank you God, for my one husband who I love with all my heart. He still sends tingles down my spine, butterflies in my tummy, and tears of gratitude in my eyes at just the thought of him.

It isn't always so. But we hold on during the difficult times, we grow closer as we work out our differences. Our love blossoms as we dig in and commit to make our marriage grow stronger and longer.

This I know: Many say if they had worked as hard at their first marriage as they worked at their second, there would not have been a second marriage. Too many give up too soon for too little reason.

How about you? Are you at the end of your rope? Hold on. Don't let go. I thank God He held Dan and I together when I wanted us apart. We needed a miracle and we trusted in a miracle-working God. What He did for us, He can do for you. Cling to Him when your marriage seems hopeless. Remember that nothing is impossible for God.

To me, Elizabeth Taylor was a delicate child desperate to love and to be loved. I wonder if she ever knew how deeply Jesus loved her and how desperately He wanted her to love Him. In Jesus, she would have found what she was searching for in husbands. For He alone can satisfy the needs a man can never fulfill.

Praying your marriage is a splash of serenity that keeps on splashing!

Elaine

The Church Should Be a Glimpse of Heaven

2011-03-20T12:51:00.014-04:00

Pinch me! Was I just served shrimp while flying economy class on Lufthansa Airlines to Bosnia? Yes, it is shrimp. Jumbo shrimp! Did three flight attendants dote on me for the seven-hour plane ride? "Anything you want?" "You need anything? I will get it for you."

This is like Heaven! At first I thought so, but then realized no one will need to ask me what I want in Heaven--I'll already have it!

"These people are well trained," I whispered to Dan. "I want to fly Lufthansa again."

Are the airlines doing a better job than our churches in making people feel loved? That's a sad thought. Perhaps Christians would benefit from the training Lufthansa Airlines offers its employees. I don't think so. What Christians need is to put into practice the training they already have through the Holy Spirit.

We have the Ultimate Instructor when the Holy Spirit controls our lives. Then, we see people the way Jesus sees them. We love them, as Jesus loves them. We discern needs and ask the right questions and see that the strangers entering our churches are comfortable, accepted, loved, and tended to.

Landing in Germany, we were greeted by a large sign reading "MUNICH LOVES YOU!" Munich doesn't love me, but Jesus does. People should sense "JESUS LOVES YOU!" when they enter our church halls. Let's care for the strangers walking through our church doors. Greet them. Ask if they need anything. Direct them to restrooms, or the nursery, or a Sunday School class. Make them feel comfortable, loved, and cared about and they might decide your church is a little like Heaven and they want to fly with you every Sunday.

I'd benefit from further comments on this topic. Let's learn from each other how we can minister to those who seek Him.

May we be a Splash of Serenity to a world that thirsts for the love only Jesus offers.

Blessings on your day!

Elaine

Goat Milk Soaps and Salves for Sale

2011-03-17T14:10:00.037-04:00

Goat milk? My daughter, Elizabeth Sliwa, has plenty and enjoys the splashes of serenity it brings to her family. She'd love to share some of that serenity with you. Dandelion's Acre Goat's Milk Soaps and Salves is now available to you. You'll love it! One bath and my skin was softer. One application of "Breathe Better Balm" and you'll sleep sounder.

My favorites are Lavender Vanilla with Almonds, Wild Peppermint, and Rustic Rose. Of course the sWEEt Bottoms Balm for Baby is the best for the sweet cheeks living in your house!

Check it out on her blog, http://www.dandelionsacre.blogspot.com or email her at jsliwa@stny.rr.com

Happy Bathing and Splashes of Serenity to YOU!

Elaine

I Am Not Responsible for What Happens in Your Bathtub!

2011-03-15T08:42:00.006-04:00

One of the joys of being an author is hearing from your readers. Often their stories are amusing. Such was the case last week, when I was told of two bath time adventures! Although different circumstances, both suggested my books should come with CAUTIONS!

One woman drew a hot, bubbly bath, immersed herself for some Splashes of Serenity, literally. Enjoying my book in the bathtub, she relaxed to the point of dropping it in the water. WARNING: Although Splashes of Serenity: Bathtime Reflections... will give you hours of Bathtime fun, it is not waterproof! I'm happy she loves the book and ordered a replacement, even without the WARNING.

Another woman laughed that she gave her pregnant daughter Splashes of Serenity: Bathtime Reflections for Drained Moms. She reported her daughter didn't make it to the hospital, but gave birth in the bathroom. I'm pleased my book is such a page turner you can't stop reading it, even when in labor. WARNING: If having a baby while reading this book, please stop reading immediately, and get thee to the hospital!

These stories brought a smile to my face. Hope they did to yours as well.

Have a Splash of Serenity today, but take note of all WARNINGS! I can't be held responsible for what happens in your bath tub!

Hugs,

Elaine

My Mom's Health and Beauty Secrets

2011-03-14T06:01:00.013-04:00

We called her Mary "Webster" because she loved reading the dictionary. Every day she discovered a new word and used it appropriately whether scolding or loving us. The truth is, we often didn't know what she was talking about. My five siblings and I rolled our eyes at mom's antics.

Mom cared for her mind, and her body. Up early, she and Jack LaLanne had a daily appointment. LaLanne must have produced the first exercise program on TV and mom rarely missed bending and stretching with Jack. As a preschooler, I remember doing jumping jacks along with her on our living room floor.

Mom cared about her appearance. She was a natural beauty, and worked at keeping herself lovely. I remember her making oatmeal facials at home before you could buy them in a store.

She ate healthy. Fruits and vegetables abounded. Dessert was rare. Cereal sweetened with honey and raisins tasted great, until mom sprinkled wheat germ on top. I didn't like the wheat germ. She said it was good for me.

Mother knew laughter was the best medicine and filled our home with it. A great practical joker, she invested in delicacies like chocolate-covered ants. I can still feel those little buggers in my teeth. I shudder and I smile. She created a great memory when she splurged on that chocolate ordered from some strange catalogue in the 1950's. (I write about it in Splashes of Serenity: Bathtime Reflections for Drained Moms, "Sweet Surprises" p. 14.)

This year she will celebrate her 90th birthday. Today, she reads 3 to 5 books a week, beats me at Bananagrams, has beautiful skin, and a sweet smile on her face. I look at her life and her longevity and realize Mary "Webster" was a wise woman after all. Love you, Mom!

Special times with my mother bring a splash of serenity to my life. I am blessed to still have her here. I'd love to hear about times or memories of your mother.

Be blessed this day with health and beauty!

Elaine

Dandelion's Acre Farm Marm: Hello and Goodbye

2011-02-28T07:18:00.002-05:00

My daughter gave me a splash of Serenity today on her blog. Thank you, sweet Lizzy for all of your love.
Dandelion's Acre Farm Marm: Hello and Goodbye: "As usual my parents' visit this weekend went way too quickly. Sometimes I get discouraged that our time goes so fast especially when th..."

A Splash of Serenity in Sarajevo

2011-02-25T10:22:00.016-05:00

Imagine living in Sarajevo during the Bosnian Civil War from 1992-1996. You remember gorgeous mountains hugging beautiful Sarajevo resting in a peaceful valley. No more. Now artillery fills those mountains surrounding your hometown. They aim and shoot at you and all those you love and life as you know it. Your family and friends are massacred. Men you love are herded into prison camps to be executed, beaten, and tortured. Twenty thousand girlfriends are systematically raped. You watch your children being slung under the tracks of advancing tanks. Half your world is dead. There's no electricity, no gas, no running water for 3 1/2 years. How could anyone survive this?

Imagine living in Sarajevo today. It's a history-rich city being rebuilt. Yet 40% remain unemployed. You may be a Bosnian war widow eking out a living making handcrafts. Perhaps your children are the ones begging on the streets hoping for a meal. You love Bosnia but you hate the memories there. The people are warm and loving, but they carry deep pain in their minds and scars that penetrate their hearts.

Dan and I rejoice at the opportunity we have to bring hope and encouragement to the people who live there and the International Workers who serve them. We just returned from our 5th trip to the Balkans. There is so much to say, but this poem printed from a Covenant House Christmas card in Leslie Vernick's book, Lord, I Just Want To Be Happy, says most of it.

On the street I saw a small girl
cold and shivering in a thin dress,
with little hope of a decent meal.
I became angry and said to God:
"Why did you permit this?
Why don't you do
something about it?"

For a while God said nothing.
That night He replied
quite suddenly:
"I certainly did something about it--
I made you.'"

Won't you be a Splash of Serenity in some one's life today? Perhaps that is why God made you.

Blessed to be used by God in any way to bring a splash of serenity to a hurting world,

Elaine

Switzerland Serenity

2011-02-16T07:38:00.010-05:00

You aren't seeing things. Look again. This church is above the clouds. Riding in a large, enclosed gondola to the top of a Swiss Alp near Luzerne, Switzerland, we lost our breath at the beauty of it all--the mountains and the church. I have no idea who attends here or how they get there, but God spoke to my heart just at the sight of it.

God reminded me that He loves the whole world. He will build His Church and neither the gates of Hell nor the icey slopes of Switzerland will prevail against it. We will never escape God and He will never forget us. He's there in the bombed-out buildings of Bosnia and He's there in the snow-covered splendor of Switzerland. He loves us and we are in His Hands. Wherever you are, may you know His sweet serenity today.

What does this photo say to you? I'd love to hear.

Sending Splashes of Serenity from snowy and serene Switzerland,

Elaine

Celebrating 40 Valentine's Days

2011-02-08T20:09:00.002-05:00

We've got something to celebrate! Forty years of Valentine's Days and we're more in love than ever. Why did our love grow? How did we last 40 years? What lessons have we learned that we can pass on to others?

Marriage takes commitment. For us it began in the bathtub. I write about it in "My Wedding Began in a Church--My Marriage Began in the Bathtub." (See the first reflection in Splashes of Serenity: Bathtime Reflections for Drained Wives). Forty years ago I packed Dan's bags with every intention of throwing in the towel. He was in the bathtub (we had no shower) with his feet dangling out the bathroom window (you need to read my book to find out why). Looking up at me he said simple words, "Elaine, I'm committed to you for a lifetime." That statement changed our marriage.

Dan meant it. I'm not easy to live with. Fellow writers understand why. But Dan committed to me for a lifetime. He proved it 20 years ago when I faced surgery that could altar our lives and disfigure my body. Dan's reaction, "Well, I'll just have to love you even more." What a gem of a guy. And to think, I almost threw him away with the bath water.

Committing to lasting love changes things. In the early days, we fought fiercely and had trouble making up. Now, we rarely argue and love making up. Why? Because after 40years we know each other so well. Now we understand what upsets the other and we don't do it. We've learned what to say and when and how to say it.

As time passes and love grows, we realize we can't even remember why we fought the battles that nearly knocked us out of the marriage ring. Of course, there are issues that need to be discussed and behaviors that need changed. But the majority of our marital disagreements are silly and not worth the energy.

Too many marriages give up too soon for too little reason and the consequences are felt for generations. Hold on young lovers. Sometimes you just have to stick your feet out the bathroom window and commit!

What about your marriage? Are you committed to last 40 years and more? I hope so. It is worth it.

Make a Splash on Valentine's Day! It might just bring you some serenity!

Elaine

Better than Superbowl Sunday

2011-02-06T09:19:00.000-05:00

I grew up in western Pennsylvania. You know what that means? I'm a football fan. People in Pittsburgh follow football like some follow a religion.

My father loved football. He'd watch two games at once while listening to another one on the radio. When his team scored, He was out of his seat cheering with every bit of passion within him. When his team lost, he had lots to say about it. Watching dad watch football was entertainment in itself.

I'm passionate like my father. I love the Steelers, but I love God more. Once when Dad and I had one of our spiritual conversations, he chastised me for being too passionate about my religion. We both laughed at my response to him, "Hey, dad, have you ever watched yourself watch football? If you can get that excited about a game, I think it is all right for me to get excited about God." He didn't dispute my statement.

Funny, how things change when you meet God face-to-face. Football becomes frivolous and God becomes fundamental. Dad received two weeks notice of his death. I suppose you could call it his two-minute warning. He didn't talk about football--he talked about Jesus. Before he died his eyes twinkled, he smiled, and he boldly lifted his hands to Heaven. Sort of reminded me of referees calling a "touchdown!" Jesus threw him a pass, Dad ran for the goal, and scored his eternal victory! Heaven has Steeler Nation beat and that is something to jump up and shout about.

A Splash of Serenity in Bosnia

2011-01-28T10:38:00.007-05:00

In ten days Dan and I fly to Bosnia. We carry with us a suitcase filled with yarn and a heart filled with love. We'll return with a suitcase filled with lace and a heart filled with hope for the people of this war-torn country.

The Bosnian Lace Project is one of the ways the Christian and Missionary Alliance is helping in practical ways. I wish you could see some of the toothless grins of these dear women who trust the Lord and our sales will bring them dinner tonight. Won't you help bring a splash of serenity to their valuable lives? Please read the following article by clicking "share" and ask yourself what you can do.

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The Most Valuable Lesson Learned as a Writer/Speaker

2011-01-21T08:41:00.009-05:00

It's official! I've been in"duck"ted into the Odd Duck Society. We're a growing group of authors who embrace the fact that writers are odd ducks and that is okay. This month I am their featured author answering the question, "What was your most valuable lesson as a writer/speaker?"

I hope you don't quack up at my answer:

GOD USES ODD DUCKS

It’s amazing how God uses odd ducks. He puts a passion in our hearts which becomes a thought in our brains. That thought travels through our fingers, arrives on a printed page, is read by a stranger, and changes their life. Now that’s something to quack about!

We may be odd ducks, but our words do influence people. If you are a Christian writer or speaker, the world is reading, listening, and watching you to see what Jesus is like and learn how Christianity works. We can write great books, prepare entertaining talks, be articulate Bible scholars; but unless our audience sees Jesus in us, unless they sense love in our hearts, our words are only resounding gongs or, if you’re a duck—annoying quacks. What we say, write, and do draws people toward Christ or away from Him. As representatives of Jesus, we’d better have all our ducks in a row.

The most valuable lesson I have learned as a Christian communicator is to examine my heart so no sin keeps my audience from seeing Jesus or hinders me from hearing God. As Luke 6:45 says, “What you say flows from what is in your heart.” I believe all Christians (and especially odd ducks) should examine what is filling our hearts because it is sure to eventually flow out of our mouths.

We need covered in prayer.

Pray for yourself. Pray for a pure heart, so you will not be deceived and distort His Truth. Ask Jesus to give you His Mind, His Heart, and His Eyes so you will love people as He loves them. Be so filled with Jesus that He shines through your life, your speaking, and your writing. Living a holy life means a daily surrender to God.

Pray for your audience. God is aware of people’s troubles. He knows what happened to them this week and what they face in the days ahead. Ask Him to guide you to the words your audience needs to hear.

Pray for your ministry. The world is not ashamed to promote evil. Christians should not hesitate to proclaim Christ. When asked if I was uncomfortable marketing my books, I responded, “No. God gave them to me. I would feel disobedient if I didn’t do all I could to get them into readers’ hands.” Pray for boldness in your message knowing that you are not promoting yourself—you are promoting your Lord.

If I have any doubts that God uses odd ducks, I remember the woman at a Barnes & Nobel book signing, reading Splashes of Serenity: Bathtime Reflections for Drained Wives. She read for about 10 minutes before making eye contact with me. Looking up, she said, “I have every intention of leaving my husband, but first I will read this book.”

Or the wife who decided on the spot not to divorce her husband after opening the same book and reading “…Don’t seek a divorce.” (1 Corinthians 7:27).

There was the mother who wrote to me after reading Splashes of Serenity: Bathtime Reflections for Drained Moms. Overwhelmed with concerns for her children, she was unable to sleep. Thanking me for my book, she said she had slept through the night for the first time in months.

I’ll not forget the mom who walked by my book table and spotted the chapter title “God Never Says, ‘Oops!’” With tears she told me her story. For years she got through her days repeating the phrase, God never says “Oops!” while caring for her brain-damaged son. She said, “Seeing those words in print, was like God sending her a message.”

We may be odd ducks, but we’re God’s ducks, and He desires to use our words to bring a lost world to Him. I hope we quack for Him for as long as He allows us to waddle. May we do so with grace and love and Christ-filled hearts.

You can read more about odd ducks on their website, http:www.OddDuckSociety.org. Enjoy us! We're pretty quacked!

S.O.S. (Splashes of Serenity): Bathtime Reflections for Drained Moms, written by Elaine W. Miller, was released in April 2005, by Green Key Books. In these 30 five-minute meditations, Miller restores sanity with Scripture and shares poignant, often amusing vignettes to encourage mothers along their journey.

S.O.S. (Splashes of Serenity): Bathtime Reflections for Drained Wives, written by Elaine W. Miller, was released in October 2006, by Green Key Books. This book offers refreshment to wives with 30 five-minute vignettes and S.O.S. prayers to encourage them to give their vows, for better or for worse, another look when they feel like throwing in the towel.

Elaine would love to send you an autographed copy of her books. Please e-mail her at SplashesofSerenity@yahoo.com
with your order. Cost is $13.99 each.

Baby Steps or Possibly a Leap Towards a Better Marriage

2011-01-18T08:35:00.000-05:00

Marriages are fragmenting. This most important of human relationships--the basis of our families, the glue that holds our children together is falling apart. Why is this happening? What's wrong with us?

Looking back at my 40 years of marriage, I remember the best advice I ever received: "If you want a marriage that keeps getting better, read a book on marriage once a month." That's a lot of marriage books.

The sad truth is that publishers tell me books on marriage don't sell well. It's heartbreaking that we swarm to books about vampires, politicians, wizards and such; yet ignore reading anything that will improve the foundation--the core--of our families. We choose to live in fantasyland or a reality show, instead of facing the truth of our hopeless state of matrimony.

Will reading books on marriage change your marriage? Maybe not dramatically. My goal in reading each book is to make one change, take one baby step toward a better marriage. If I read 12 books a year, that's 12 baby steps, which in my mind constitutes a LEAP! There is no doubt my marriage is better because of my passion for reading books on marriage.

Am I trying to sell my book? Yes indeed! Why? Because I know marriages will be helped by it. Maybe not a leap towards a better marriage, but certainly a baby step. Please contact me at SplashesofSerenity@yahoo.com to order a copy of Splashes of Serenity: Bathtime Reflections For Drained Wives. A great Valentine's Day gift!

Please order before February as I will be leaving the country and celebrating Valentine's Day with my love.

So, what is your favorite marriage book? What has helped you take a baby step or a leap towards a better marriage? I'd love hearing from you.

May your home be filled with love, splashes of serenity, and books on marriage,

Elaine

Stop, Learn, and Do!

2011-01-06T16:29:00.031-05:00

When I saw this tree on my walk today, I chuckled and thought, that's the way I feel about my life sometimes. So many places to go, demands to be met, needs to fulfill. Life can be so busy we don't sense the serenity of this tree, but the entanglement of its branches.

That's why I like to ask God how to spend my days. His plan for me is peace. He would not desire that I flail my arms about in every direction. He knows before I wake up what issues I will face that day. He is aware of my days and He knows my years.

So, each January I ask God for a verse--one that will help me be more like Him and feel less entangled in the ways of this world.

Isaiah is one of my favorite Books of the Bible, so in seeking a 2011 scripture, I started there. Voila! There it was. The words jumped out at me as though printed in bold by God's Himself. "Stop bringing me your meaningless offerings!" Isaiah 1:13. It was the "Stop" and the "!" that got my attention. If God says "Stop" and ends with an exclamation point, He wants the reader to take note. Don't you think?

So, what is a meaningless offering? Oh my, the list could get long. Worry, grumbling, and resentment are just the beginning of my list.

For me, it's all about time. How I spend each hour is either a meaningless or a meaningful offering to God. Time is a gift God gives to each of us. How we use that time is our gift back to Him.

I'm not making New Year's resolutions this year, but I am thinking about what I do with the time God gives me. Later in Isaiah 1, I read another "Stop" and noticed another exclamation point. "...Stop doing wrong, learn to do right!" Isaiah 1:16-17. So simple. It isn't difficult to understand how to please God. Just "Stop, learn, and do!"

Isaiah 1:28-30 says that rebels and sinners will be "like a garden without water." That doesn't sound like a splash of serenity to me. May my life in 2011 and forever be filled with meaningful offerings to God as I learn to do right and resist rebellion against His plan for me for 2011.

I don't want to be like that tree lifting empty and cold branches up to God. May my limbs be lush with fruit as God teaches me to do right and I make the most of His offering of time to me. Won't you join me on this quest?

Happy New Year!

Elaine

A New Verse for a New Year

2010-12-31T13:01:00.028-05:00

Every January I ask God to give me a scripture verse. These annual verses have taught me valuable life lessons.

"Fix your eyes on Jesus" is my favorite verse. That year I took my eyes off myself and my plans and other people and their plans for me. Instead, I fixed my eyes on Jesus, His Will, and His Sovereignty. It was life changing. I haven't looked back. I just keep looking UP!

"Practice hospitality" brought a chuckle. That was the year I was in a cast for three months and learned to receive hospitality more than to practice it. God taught me that He has a sense of humor and that hospitality has little to do with a clean and welcoming house and much to do with a clean and welcoming heart.

"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up" helped me through exhausting years of caring for little children. Don't grow weary, don't give up, I repeated on difficult days, trusting God for a great harvest. He delivered as He promised and I realized no matter how tiresome the day, this too will pass. Those babies grow up too fast to worry about being weary.

By far the most convicting verse was "Examine yourself." OUCH! I think I was afraid to ask God for another verse, so the following January and the one that followed that, and the one after that... I just kept examining myself. How often we examine everybody else, yet fail to examine ourselves. I'm still pulling the plank out of my eye and daily reminding myself that nowhere in the Bible does God say, examine your neighbor or worse, examine your husband.

This year, God gave me a new verse. I love it and I'll share it with you in a future post.

Have you asked God for a verse for 2011? I'd love to hear about it!

May 2011 be filled with Splashes of Serenity for each of us!

Elaine

Merry Christmas Letter

2010-12-14T19:10:00.009-05:00

Dear Friends,

Merry Christmas to you. At this sweet season, I love to remember that the Baby Jesus came to earth over 2,000 years ago and He is still with us. Emmanuel--God with us. Whatever life brings, God is with us. What a comforting thought. I thank God for His presence in my life and the lives of my family--His presence that will never go or pass away.

In 2010 Dan and I celebrated 40 years of marriage. Through good and not-so-good days, Jesus has been with us. We thank Him for a deep and ever-growing love in our hearts.

It is a joy for us to be partners in marriage as well as in ministry. In August Dan began a second term as District Superintendent of the Northeastern District of the Christian and Missionary Alliance. We're on the road together most weekends visiting and, hopefully, encouraging the 80 churches in this District. What joy knowing God is in every church and filling every heart who believes in Him.

My writing and speaking continues to bring a Splash of Serenity to a world that needs to know that God is with us. I continue hearing, almost daily, from readers whose lives have been touched and changed by something God gave me to say or to write. Wanting to encourage others to write, I taught seminars at two writers conferences this past year. What fun to see the enthusiasm and the passion of younger writers eager to tell their stories to a world that doesn't know that God is with them.

God was with us when He took Dan's dad to Heaven February 5, 2010. What a glorious morning taking him for a ride around town, to church, out to his fav restaurant, and then home to sit in his chair, where he closed his eyes and entered his final rest. We are so thankful God allowed us to be with dad on his final day on earth.

God is with Joanna and Bob as they balance careers (Bob as News Director for the Family Life Network and Joanna as a reading specialist) and parent two amazing children--Gracie and Ryan--a future swim star and a tractor driver, respectively.

God is with Elizabeth and Joe as He blessed them with baby number 5. Charlotte Grace joins Connor, Garrett, Ava, and Brenna as the cutest and liveliest kids on the planet. Joe continues with Fish Window cleaning, building goat barns, and remodeling their house. Elizabeth's time away happens at Arnot Ogden Hospital where she is a labor and delivery nurse.

I am so thankful God is with Sam and Katie. Sam spent much of last year in Iraq. They are now nicely settled in Newport News, VA where Sam serves as a JAG lawyer. Katie and I prayed through Sam's and Dan's dream fly-fishing trip to Montana last summer. Blessed to know God gave them a grand time.

All of our 7 grandchildren and 3 married children and their spouses will gather around our Christmas tree this year. God will be there too. Emmanuel--God with us. And He shall reign forever and ever. Hallelujah! May you know the serenity that comes from the truth in your heart that Jesus is--Emmanuel--God with us.

Serenity Christmas!

Elaine

This December I Changed My "To Do" List to a "To Be" List

2010-12-01T21:11:00.013-05:00

Life gets so busy in December, I find myself panting to keep up, stressing to find the perfect gift, pressuring myself to get the baking done, the house cleaned and decorated, the tree up. To be honest, I'm so busy in December, I find it is the month I spend the least time with the Lord and the most time in the world. I suspect Jesus looks at me, shakes His Head, and wonders why He wasn't invited to His own birthday party. Shame on me.

This December instead of do, do, do, I resolve to be, be, be.

To be focused on Christ.

To be diligent in my advent devotions and prayer time.

To be sensitive to those who hurt at Christmas.

To be intentional in sharing my faith.

To be alert to worldly Christmas celebrations that lure me away from Christ.

To be disciplined in my December spending.

To be generous to those in need.

To be careful to sleep well, eat healthy, and exercise regularly so I have the energy to enjoy (not just survive) this Holy month.

To be joyful so that the world will see Jesus is the reason for the season.

To be at peace knowing Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, lives in me. Jesus is all that matters and He is enough.

To be in awe of the greatest Christmas Gift ever given--and God gave Him to me!

To be blessed by the simple things of this Holy Season.

To be like a child and see the Baby Jesus with childlike wonder.

To be more in love with Christ than with anyone or anything.

Won't you join me? Take a deep breath and Be. Be His. Be Christmas.

I'd love to hear what you resolve "to be" this Advent Season. Please share.

May we all know the blessings of serenity as we celebrate Christ's birth.

BElessed December!

Elaine

A Kick in the Bucket List

2010-11-23T10:05:00.011-05:00

Flying First Class. Check that one off my bucket list.

What's on your bucket list--the things you desire to do before you kick the bucket?

Flying First Class was on mine. Of course, I didn't plan on paying for it. I wanted bumped into it. Last Saturday it happened. A delayed flight caused United to reroute me to another airplane. The only seats available were First Class.

I sank into the cushy leather, sipped OJ, didn't feel fat because I wasn't wedged into a seat that (from the width of it) had to have been made in China to fit the size of an average Chinese rump. My arms and legs were not glued to my sides in fear that I might brush against the stranger beside me. There was lots of room.

My flight was comfortable and restful. It was not satisfying.

I scratched "Flying First Class" off my bucket list and reflected on the things in life that never made my bucket list, but should have:

Being with my dad, giving him his last hair comb, feeding him his last meal, holding his hand when God took him to Heaven.

Knowing the warmth of grandchildren's arms wrapped around my neck.

Peeling apples with my mother on the back porch.

Seeing my son's feet touch American soil after a tour in Iraq.

Growing old with the love of my life.

Writing books that change lives.

Pushing my mother in her wheelchair on a Spring Day, thanking God that she didn't die young.

Comforting a crying baby in the middle of an African jungle.

Singing Christmas carols and crying around a Christmas Eve dinner with a 90-year old widow.

Holding my new-born babies.

Treasuring the special place grandchildren hold in my heart.

Praying with hurting women and watching Jesus take their pain away.

Feeling a new-born's cheeks against mine.

Surrendering my life to God and accepting Jesus Christ as my Lord and my Savior.

Telling as many as I can that Jesus is the way, the truth, the life.

These are the things that bring a Splash of Serenity to life. What's on your bucket list?

This Thanksgiving may we be thankful for the things that really matter.

Thanksgiving blessings with a Splash of Serenity,

Elaine

From the Heart: The Importance of Writing and Speaking Guest Inter...

2010-11-15T09:34:00.000-05:00

From the Heart: The Importance of Writing and Speaking Guest Inter...: "Author Elaine W. Miller was recently interviewed by Shona of Step Up, a writing and speaking service blog.The following interview is a..."

A Tribute to My Hero on Veteran's Day

2010-11-10T13:31:00.021-05:00

Few know what happened on that July day in 1969. Dan doesn't talk about it. He passes it off as being at the wrong place at the wrong time.

A Silver Star, a Purple Heart, and other medals rest in Dan's desk drawer along with this newspaper account of a day in the life of my soldier:

"Petty Officer Miller was serving as a corpsman aboard a transport helicopter on a medical evacuation mission near the Demilitarized Zone. The Marines gave this report:

"After the casualties were picked up, as the helicopter lifted, a rocket-propelled grenade hit the cabin, seriously wounding Miller.... The helicopter was forced to make an emergency landing in the bottom of a ravine.

Although coming under mortar and small-arms fire from the enemy, Miller disembarked the casualties and, despite his own wounds, carried them up a steep hill to a friendly position.

Throughout the night, the Marines came under concentrated fire and numerous ground attacks, but Miller, disregarding his own safety, moved through the fire-swept area to treat injured men.

He carried the casualties back down the slope to an alternate location for medical evacuation the next morning.

'His heroic and determined action inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in saving the lives of several Marines. By his courage, bold initiative and selfless devotion to duty in the face of grave personal danger, Petty Officer Miller upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.'"

Today I thank all veterans and their families for the great sacrifices they make so that we can be free. You are all heroes.

Not everyone comes home. Thank You, God, for bringing my Dan home to me.

Praying for all who serve,

Elaine

Quilts are a Lot Like People

2010-11-09T14:03:00.024-05:00

Last weekend I entered a quilter's paradise--three days of non-stop sewing (except for meals, a few hours of sleep, and two sessions to listen to the speaker, yours truly).

One hundred and thirty women gathered on the grounds of Montrose Bible Conference to make more than 130 quilts. I saw Proverbs 31 women in action. They quilted well into the night, dozed for a few hours, and were at it again early--like 4:00 a.m. I tried sneaking to the lobby in my jammies in the middle of the night for a cup of tea. I was not alone--there was a whole lot of quiltin' goin' on. They took Proverbs 31:22 very seriously, "She makes her own bedspreads."

My heart was touched by these women who came with their daughters and mothers and sisters and friends. Some made quilts for Pregnancy Care Centers; others made quilts for neo-natal hospital units. One was making a Nittany Lion quilt for her pastor for Clergy Appreciation day. I laughed at the lady who was making a quilt for her cleaning lady. You see, quilters (like writers) aren't known for their clean houses. She's smart to hire a cleaning lady to clean so she can quilt.

I learned alot about quilting last weekend. Each quilt has three sections. The face (the pretty top), the back (a fabric which complements the face) and the batting (the stuffing).

Quilts are beautiful and they are a lot like people. We can have a pretty face, but if our batting is rotten, we won't be very cuddly.

We surely do make our own bedspreads. When our feet come out from under our quilts and our toes hit the ground running, we determine by our batting (our actions and our words and our attitudes) what the quilt of our lives will look like that day.

Choose wisely your fabric and your pattern and how you stitch it all together. We do reap what we sew. And for all the times I miss a stitch, I am thankful for the Great Comforter who sews me all back together again.

Praying you sew some serenity into your quilt today!

Elaine

Remembering My Girlfriends Who Died of Cancer

2010-10-21T15:22:00.015-04:00

Pink! It's everywhere--football cleats, baseball hats, facebook pages. But it's more than a breast-cancer awareness campaign. Pretty pink ribbons represent my friends who battled cancer and won--the true survivors--living in Heaven with their Savior. Each one touched my life and grew me up in Christ. I thank God for them as I remember the better person I am because they lived.

Cindy Chetnick and I carried babies in our wombs when me met. There's a bond when girlfriends share pregnancies. Only, it was different for Cindy. She had breast cancer. Devoted to her older children, thrilled to have a new baby, she didn't talk about the cancer that took her away before her baby boy celebrated a birthday. Cindy taught me about hope and joy and faith and perseverance and sacrifice. She never gave up. I never saw her stop smiling. I thank God for Cindy's life. She taught me to embrace whatever my life brings, to treasure each day, to be joyful in affliction, and never give up hope. She taught me that in the worst of circumstances, a person can still smile and be a positive influence in this world.

Pam Cordes sang like an angel. I still listen to her on recordings and treasure the memory of the last time I heard her sing, "You are Standing on Holy Ground." She sang a song with the lyrics, "When they laid my Jesus on that old cross, the devil danced around with glee." Pam didn't let the devil dance around with glee when her breast cancer was diagnosed. She sang to the very end, not wanting to miss any opportunity to share her faith with an audience. She showed me the importance of embracing life and living it to the fullest. Pam taught me to find what God wants me to do with my talents and to have the courage to do it. Thanks, Pam. You are one of the reasons I write and speak--to carry on the message you sang.

Helen Bell had Heaven in her eyes. Her smile, her beauty, her gentleness, and her kindness filled every room she entered. She rested in Jesus' arms awaiting the glorious day she would meet her beloved Savior. So sure of the glories of Heaven, she showed no anxiousness or fear. Thank you Helen, for teaching me to trust God with every moment of my life. Thank you for showing me how to smile through pain and to love eternal life more than this earthly existence.

Linda Douglass sang at my daughter's wedding. She honored me with a request that I be there when it was her time to leave this earth. One day, while hanging clean curtains in my son's room, I felt the urgent need to go to her. I read scripture and prayed, her husband held her hands, and Jesus took her to Heaven. God used Linda to teach me to pray. This dear home-schooling mom of five had advanced breast cancer. I never told her how God woke me in the night and lead me to pray for her until morning. Many nights I poured my heart out to God for Linda's life. He answered. He gave her eternal life. He answered by caring for her children and for her husband. I remember her telling me, "Marty is a great father, but he'll be a lousy mother." Well, Marty did all right and God seems to have made up for what Marty lacked in femininity. You are missed, Linda. I thank God for your life and for the lives of your children. I still pray for each of them and marvel at how God places people in their paths to love them with a mother's love.

Shirley Brinkerhoff taught me the writing business. I thank God for her commitment to teach Christian writers how to write. She is a lot of the reason why I am now an author. She is the inspiration behind my desire to teach at writer's conferences and to encourage writers through critique groups. I thank God for Shirley who opened up the world of Christian writing to me. Her sweet smile, her resolve to keep teaching through her pain, her excitement to answer and to help me when I asked her any question are examples of passion and professionalism I want to follow as a Christian writer.

Courtney Chetnick New is Cindy's daughter. She was about nine years old when her mother died. I drove her to swim lessons and girl scouts. This sweet girl's courage and faith at such a tender age touched my heart. She talked about her mother often as though she was still alive. Because she was--she lived in Courtney's heart. What a beautiful young lady. We moved to a different town and I lost contact with Courtney. I feel bad about that. I hear she had a strong faith. I'm not surprised. God was with her when she was nine and I'm sure God was with her when she also died of cancer before her 30th birthday. I thank God for Courtney. She taught me that I have nothing to fear. God is always with me and will walk with me through the darkest of days.

Sara Woodward was one of the most amazing women I have ever had the joy of knowing. She abounded with spiritual gifts--hospitality, giving, mercy, administration, faith. Sara had the ability to make every person in her presence feel special. She loved everyone from deep within her heart. She cared for people physically, spiritually, emotionally, financially. She just gave and gave and gave and did it all with abundant joy. Oh, I miss this dear one who really taught me what Jesus looks like. She lived the Christian life and lived it to the hilt. Putting people's needs above her own came to her without thought. She just did it. I have so many memories of Sara and each one would be of how she blessed me. I feel bad that I never blessed her back, yet I know blessing me was a blessing to her. I thank God for Sara and her love and care and concern for me for so many years. Wow, I miss you, girlfriend.

I won't forget my friends during this breast cancer awareness month. Lord, thank you for their lives and their impact on my life. They were a splash of serenity to me. Wrap your arms around their loved ones and hold them tight. Thank you, Jesus, for the gift of friendship each of these women gave to me. I am blessed because they lived. May I make a difference as they made a difference to me. And Lord Jesus, we pray that a cure would be found for this awful disease. Thank You.

Readers, I'd love to hear about your girlfriends and how they impacted your life.

Each day is a gift. Treasure it.
Elaine

He Cleaned Up My Mess!

2010-10-16T08:44:00.015-04:00

Last month I was smashed. This month I was flushed. The mammogram was easy. The colonoscopy was not.

Most of us know to prep for a colonoscopy, we drink a gallon of laxative and experience a glorious cleansing of everything not securely attached to our innards. I picture my poor liver holding on for dear life while the torrent of liquid washes away every trace of onion. Enough of that picture.

But it gets worse. My body has trouble with medicine. I mean Nyquil keeps me awake. My 5 foot 1 inch frame didn't know which end was up and my flushing also became my vomiting. Violent vomiting--that landed me in a hospital bed with an IV. Without being too graphic (because that is not the point of this blog), let's just say my dear hubby rushed me to the hospital after I baptized our beautiful white bathroom from both ends.

Lying in the hospital, IV pumping my dehydrated and delirious body with nutrients, I thought about my bathroom. I love my bathroom. That's why I write bathroom books. At that moment I knew the floors and perhaps walls of my bathtime sanctuary were a mess.

Babette, my nurse, made me feel better with her physical and verbal comfort. "I can tell your husband really loves you," she said. "How?" I asked. "By the way he looks at you." Let me tell you, I've probably never looked worse. He really does love me.

Hours later my body settled, colonoscopy performed, no polyps found, my hubby returned me to our home and tucked me into bed. When I awoke, the reality of it all hit me. Oh dear, I've got to clean that bathroom. It's a mess.

Walking into the scene of the crime, I was overwhelmed at the sight. The bathroom sparkled. Dan had cleaned up my mess. What an awful job for a husband, who considered it a privilege. Never have I felt so loved.

The Bible says husbands are to love their wives as Christ loved the church. That's how Dan loves me. He cleans up my mess. Just like Jesus, Who died to clean up all our messes. It doesn't matter how dirty and smelly and gross is your mess. Jesus really loves you and He'll clean it up. Let Jesus wrap his arms around you, whisper sweet comfort in your ears, and clean up your mess. You'll never be more loved.

Splashes of Serenity,

Elaine

Why I Love My Birthday!

2010-10-01T12:41:00.006-04:00

I love my birthday! Too many of my friends died young and never saw their son graduate from Law School, planned their daughters' weddings, held their new-born grandbabies, took long walks with older grandchildren, laughed themselves silly with their girlfriends, grew old with the love of their life. God gave me a gift when I was born--LIFE--I intend to live it to the hilt.

I celebrate by writing myself a birthday poem each year. Trust me, it is the only day I write poetry. Read it and enjoy the gift of life God gave to YOU.

Yes, it's true
Today I am sixty-two.
I won't "boo hoo"
Or yet say, "Toodle-oo!"

I am sixty-two
But I'm not blue
There's still lots to do:
Unseen places to view,

Memories to accrue,
Grandbabies to "peek-a-boo!"
A hubby who needs me too.
I'd love to have tea with you.

I still hope to write a book or two!
New exotic foods I have yet to chew.
Like to hike, golf, and kayak--to name a few!
At the end of my days, hoping to say, "Phew!"

This I know is true:
I am sixty-two
And happy as can be
That I'm not yet sixty-three!

Praying I keep shining through all my days and splashing the world with His Serenity!

Elaine

A Widow for a Week

2010-09-29T08:10:00.008-04:00

I've been a widow for a week. My marriage bed is empty. I now hug his pillow. The house isn't as dirty. Laundry is less. I've lost two pounds because meat and potatoes aren't on my menu. The remote is in my hands. The toilet seat is down. My heart aches for the man I've shared life with for 40 years.

I'm not alone. Many women live through the reality of the death of a spouse. For those going through the difficult and lonely days of widowhood, I recommend my dear friend Ferree Hardy's blog http://www.WidowsChristianPlace.com. Ferree survived the early and sudden death of her husband. Her heart's passion is to help others through the most difficult times of their lives.

My widowhood ends tomorrow as Dan returns from a Montana fly-fishing trip with our son--a trip they dreamed about for years. I'll welcome my man home, sleep in his arms, realize how precious is the smell of his dirty laundry, cook some meat and potatoes, and hand him the remote. Each day with him is a gift to treasure for we never know when that gift may be taken away.

I'm thankful for people like Ferree who knows suffering and uses her pain to help others and glorify God. If you aren't a widow, I suspect you know a widow. Please bless her by directing her to Ferree's blog. http://www.WidowsChristianPlace.com.

May we be a splash of serenity to our husbands each day of their lives,

Elaine

Carol Kent's, "Between a Rock and a Grace Place" Blog Tour

2010-09-27T01:00:00.003-04:00

It is my joy to host a blog tour for my friend, Carol Kent. Her book, Between a Rock and a Grace Place releases today. You won't want to miss this amazing story of God taking Carol and her family from a rock and a hard place to A Rock and a Grace Place.

Question: Tell us about the Christmas gift you received. How did it help you to find grace in the middle of a seemingly hopeless situation?

Carol: Two weeks before Christmas our doorbell rang at 9:15 p.m. It was dark outside and by the time my husband, Gene, joined me at the front door, we were surprised to find no one there. It was already dark, but my eyes fell on a large, exquisitely wrapped gift. The card on top said, “Mom.” Initially, it felt like a bad joke.

Nine years earlier our son, a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy had been arrested for murdering his wife’s first husband and he was in prison serving a life-without-the-possibility-of-parole sentence. However, I am a “Mom” and the package was left on my doorstep, so I opened it. The note appeared to be in my son’s unique handwriting. The note expressed his deep love for me and his gratefulness for what I had done to help him since his arrest. He said a “friend” had helped him deliver the surprise.

Opening the box, I discovered a gorgeous russet-colored silk jacket—and it fit me perfectly. That night I discovered something new about God and something I had forgotten about myself. He loves to interject divine surprises into our lives. His timing is always perfect, but it had been a while since I had been surprised by joy, wonder, and grace in the middle of one of the tight spots of life.

Question: What are “grace places,” and how can hurting people in need find them?

Carol: All of us experience tight spots when life turns out differently from our dream. When we face the overwhelming obstacles of life, we can experience the last thing we ever expect—the sweet spot of grace. Grace places have a variety of forms, but some include:

•Receiving love when we don’t deserve it
•Finding safety in the middle of a fearful and uncertain experience
•Being comforted by friends and family (people who are extensions of God’s love)
•Experiencing the embrace of God when we have run out of strength and courage “Grace means the free, unmerited, unexpected love of God, and all the benefits, delights, and comforts which flow from it.” (R.P.C. Hanson)

Question: How important are contentment and gratitude in finding grace and peace?

Carol: My son, Jason, is teaching me that I need to choose contentment and thanksgiving in all things. As an inmate in a maximum-security prison, all of his personal items must fit in one small one-foot-high and one-and a half-feet-deep and two-and-a half feet long steel lockbox. He has learned to live comfortably with very little, which brings him a surprising sense of peace.

When I was visiting him one weekend I asked how he holds on to hope in the middle of a life-without-the-possibility-of-parole sentence. He said, “Mom, I have a gratitude list. Whenever the clouds of depression try to discouragement, I get out a piece of paper and write down everything I have to be thankful for. I’m thankful I have two parents who will be my advocates for as long as they live. The average number of years a lifer gets visits is five years and then no one comes anymore. I’m also thankful I can be a missionary on a compound that houses up to 1,700 men.”

I’m learning from Jason that I find contentment when I choose to be thankful and when I invest my time in helping other people.

Question: What are some unexpected gestures of kindness you’ve received in the past, and how did they help you through difficult times?

Carol: A couple of years ago Jason’s appendix ruptured and he was rushed from the prison to a civilian hospital. Gene and I were not allowed to know where he was and I prayed for someone to care for him as a mother would. He had two armed guards in his room at all times. Nurse Betty was assigned to Jason’s care. She treated him with respect and extraordinary care—and I knew she was a direct answer to my prayers.

A group of people who called themselves our “Stretcher Bearers” received an e-mailed monthly update on how to help with our needs. We were blessed with meals, cards, and financial gifts, often just before we needed extra funds for the next legal payment. These amazing people waited with us for two and a half years through seven postponements of the trial.

Question: How has your definition of adventure changed over the years, and why is it important to retain adventure in your life, despite your situation?

Carol: True adventure is seeing the potential of living for things that matter in the middle of your current circumstances. We had the adventure of launching a nonprofit organization that helps to empower our son to facilitate classes by having books and DVD teaching series sent to the prison. We also have the adventure of reaching out to other people who are in crisis, which brings purpose and deep meaning to our lives.

Question: There is a theme of surprise throughout the book. What is one of the greatest surprises you’ve had?

Carol: The powerful story of Tammy Wilson and Matthew Ben Rodriguez is in this book. Tammy contacted me after I spoke at an event she attended because my son is incarcerated in the same prison where Matt, the man who killed her mother thirteen years ago is incarcerated. She had been praying for someone to lead Matt to Christ and asked if Jason would try to meet him. It turned out that Jason and Matt were already friends and this amazing story is one of forgiveness, redemption, and restoration that can only be explained in the supernatural dimension.

Question: Between a Rock and a Grace Place releases 10 years after your son, Jason, was sentenced to life in a maximum security prison and includes excerpts from Jason’s letters. Can you tell us how he’s doing now?

Carol: He has just taken his 8th group of men through Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University Course and he will be facilitating a biblical counseling class on marriage and family this fall. He has a prayer group of twelve inmates who fast and pray for the needs of each other and their families. Prison is a depressing, dark, and sad place, but Jason is living for things that will outlast him.

Question: When you received news about Jason’s clemency hearing being denied, how did you respond?

Carol: I wailed like a baby, sobbed, felt angry, hurt, and disappointed in God. Then we saw Jason a day after this devastating news. He was calm and very much at peace. He hugged me as I wept and said, “Mom, this case isn’t about having the best attorney or about having the favor of Florida’s top executive political leaders. If I am ever allowed to walk in freedom in this lifetime, it will be because God miraculously opened a door that was closed.” My son helps me to develop an eternal perspective and that day he comforted me.

Question: What advice do you have for those who are stuck between a rock and a grace place?

Carol: In the middle of your own hurt reach out to someone else who needs help worse than you do. When you involve yourself in meeting the needs of others, you discover an unexpected freedom on the inside. Corrie ten Boom once said, “What did you do today that only a Christian would have done?”

Question: As a result of your journey, you and your husband have founded the nonprofit organization Speak Up for Hope. What are the goals of the organization, and how can people get involved?

Carol: Our vision: To help inmates and their families adjust to their new normal. Our mission: We exist to provide hope to inmates and their families through encouragement and resources. Please go to www.speakupforhope.org for a list of practical ways individuals, churches, and organizations can help with specific projects. Our goal is to live out the truth of Prov. 31:8-9: “Speak up for the people who have no voice, for the rights of all the down-and-outers. Speak out for justice. Stand up for the poor and destitute!” Where may we connect with you further or to purchase a copy of Between a Rock and a Grace Place? I would love for you to visit my web site at www.CarolKent.org, browse through the various events and other resources available. You may also join me on my Facebook page, please click here. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------Between a Rock and a Grace Place by Carol Kent (Zondervan) From bestselling author Carol Kent comes a riveting journey of facing the impassible obstacles of life and discovering the last thing ever expected—the sweet spot of grace.

Carol Kent and her husband, Gene, are now living what some would call a heartbreaking life—their son, Jason, a young man who initially had so much promise, is now living out a life sentence for murder in a maximum security prison. All their appeals have been exhausted at both the state and federal levels—humanly speaking, they have run out of options. But despite their hopeless situation, Carol and her husband live a life full of grace.

Kent reveals how life’s problems become fruitful affliction where we discover the very best divine surprises, including peace, compassion, freedom, and adventure. Through the Kent’s remarkable ongoing journey, Jason’s riveting letters from behind bars, and true “grace place” stories from the lives of others, Between a Rock and a Grace Place. Grace Place reveals that when seemingly insurmountable challenges crash into our lives, we can be transformed as we discover God at work in ways we never imagined.

With vulnerable openness, irrepressible hope, restored joy, and a sense of humor, Carol Kent helps readers to find God’s “grace places” in the middle of their worst moments.

About the Author: Carol Kent is the bestselling author of When I Lay My Isaac Down and A New Kind of Normal. Carol is an expert on public speaking, writing, and on encouraging people to hold on to hope when life’s circumstances turn out differently from their dreams. She lives in Florida with her husband Gene. Carol Kent is a popular international public speaker best known for being dynamic, humorous, encouraging, and biblical. She is a former radio show co-host and has often been a guest on Focus on the Family and a featured speaker at Time Out for Women and Heritage Keepers arena events. She has spoken at The Praise Gathering for Believers and at Vision New England’s Congress. She is also a frequent speaker at Women of Virtue events across the country.

Here's your opportunity to receive a free copy of Between a Rock and a Grace Place. Please check out these Christian Speaker Service giveaways: at: http://www.facebook.com/CSSVBT.CarolKent.BetweenaRockandaGracePlace and http://christianspeakerservices1.wordpress.com/blog/

A complimentary copy of this book was provided to me as a blog tour host by Zondervan in exchange for posting this interview on my blog. Please visit Christian Speaker Services at www.ChristianSpeakerServices.com for more information about blog tour management services.

God gives Splashes of Serenity in the most awful of circumstances. I recommend you read Between a Rock and a Grace Place and let God and Carol guide you from a hard place to a Grace Place.

Elaine

"A Writer Speaks" CD Boosts Your Speaking Ministry

2010-09-22T09:12:00.012-04:00

Do you have a story to tell but you are afraid to tell it? You are not alone. If you are a writer, you will be asked to speak. There are worldly tongues who teach untruth with excellence. They have mastered marketing. As Christians who hold the truth in our hearts, shouldn't we do all we can and take every opportunity to communicate Christ?

I taught "A Writer Speaks" and "Marketing Your Ministry" last summer at Montrose Christian Writer's Conference. According to Patti Souder (Conference Director) both seminars received "rave reviews." They are available for purchase for $5.00 each plus $2.50 postage. Please contact me to order. Thank you. I'll send a copy of my handouts via email as a bonus.

Congratulations to Carol Harrison whose name was chosen by StepUP Writing and Speaking to receive the CD of my seminar entitled, "A Writer Speaks." Be blessed, Carol, as you Step UP and write and speak for Jesus.

Let us be a splash of serenity in someone's life today.

Blessings,
Elaine

Splashes of Serenity: A Writer Speaks

2010-09-18T07:58:00.000-04:00

Splashes of Serenity: A Writer Speaks: "The Importance of Both Writing and Speaking is discussed in Shona Neff's (www.StepUPWritingandSpeaking.com) interview with Elaine W. Miller...."

A Writer Speaks

2010-09-17T16:51:00.021-04:00

The Importance of Both Writing and Speaking is discussed in Shona Neff's (www.StepUPWritingandSpeaking.com) interview with Elaine W. Miller. Thanks for the interview, Shona and StepUP Writing and Speaking

Shona Neff recently had the pleasure of interviewing Elaine W. Miller. She provides some wonderful and helpful information for aspiring writers and speakers. She has generously provided a CD recording of a workshop she led on the topic of writers becoming speakers. If you'd like to have your name entered in this free drawing, leave a comment on this post before Sunday, September 19, 2010, by 10:00pm EST. The recipient will be announced the following Monday morning, September 20.

Shona: When Shonda and I give presentations and coach clients, we emphasize how important it is for Christian communicators to both write and speak. People who feel more comfortable speaking try to avoid writing. And, sometimes gifted writers would rather share their message only through the pages of a book or magazine rather than stand on the stage with all eyes on them.

Tell us your story, and why you started teaching workshops on writers becoming speakers.

Elaine: Years ago I pondered the question, “Are you a writer who speaks or a speaker who writes?” I believe we need to be both because as writers, we will be asked to speak. Writers have tales to tell or we wouldn’t write. No one else knows our stories, and we need to share them on the written page as well as on a stage.

Being a writer or a speaker was not on my life’s “to do” list. But God had other plans. Over 25 years ago, to my surprise and horror, I received my first speaking invitation. I had never spoken in public and rarely voiced my opinion in private. But there I was behind a podium with 660 eyes looking at me. My mother-in-law encouraged me with, “Remember, everyone out there loves you.” I cheered myself on by realizing, most of the women listening to me are very glad I am the speaker and they are not. I spoke and, to my surprise, I didn’t die nor did anyone else. In fact, it went well, and doors opened to other invitations to speak.

In 2005 my first book, Splashes of Serenity: Bathtime Reflections for Drained Moms was published. When you become an author, some people consider you an authority. I remember my first radio interview. I was introduced as “an authority on parenting.” I gasped and replied, “I am not an authority on anything, but I know Someone Who is, and He’s written a Book. The Bible is the only authority.” The point is, whether you like it or not, becoming an author opens wide the speaking doors. You are considered an authority, or at least someone who has an opinion. Now you have a voice on radio, television, the newspapers, and at speaking events.

Colossians 3:23-24 says, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart…. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” When I wanted to write a book, I attended Montrose Christian Writer's Conference so I could learn the publishing business and how to write with excellence. After my book was published and requests for speaking increased, I decided to attend Carol Kent’s Speak Up With Confidence speaker’s training. It was life changing. Carol’s teaching took my speaking to another level. She taught me to speak with all my heart because it is the Lord Christ I am serving.

I started teaching workshops on writers becoming speakers, because I have a passion to lead people to Christ and to lead Christians into a deeper relationship with Him. Writers have opportunities to impact the world for Christ through their books and from behind a microphone. I teach to encourage writers to tell their stories. We have a platform that can change a person’s life. We need to run to those speaking opportunities and not run away from them.

If we don’t speak, what will people listen to? If we stop writing, what will our children read? Browsing at the magazines gracing the grocery store check out counter is incentive for me to not just write, but to speak whenever given the opportunity.

Shona: What are the benefits to someone who both writes and speaks when it comes to their audiences?

Elaine: What a relief to get away from the glare of my computer and look into the eyes of real people—the ones whom God brought to hear the Good News. Speaking encourages me to keep writing when I meet people face to face, pray with them, and hear them say, “God used your book [or your talk] to change me.”

Of course, there is also the benefit of selling books. When people meet you, they see your heart, and they want to buy your books. I don’t think any writer goes through the hours of labor to birth a book so no one will read it. We want our books to be read—to matter—to make a difference in lives. Speaking gets our books into the hands of people who otherwise might not read them.

Shona: What are the benefits when it comes to working with publishing houses and print media?

Elaine: Every time I pitch a book to a publisher, I am asked “Do you speak on the subject of your book? How many times a year do you speak? How large is your audience?” Plus, those are standard questions we answer in our book proposals. The bottom line is: speakers sell books, and publishers are looking for authors who sell books. If you speak, you increase the possibility of seeing your book in a reader’s hands.

Shona: Do you have any advice for a writer who is struggling with the thought of having to develop their speaking skills?

Elaine: Oh, yes! I struggled with speaking. I read that 80 percent of the population fears speaking, so you are not alone.

Go to the Lord. Daily surrender your life to God and commit to being obedient to speak and to write for Him.

Surround yourself with a prayer team who will faithfully pray for you and your ministry.

Please know that not everyone is an energetic and entertaining communicator, but that doesn’t mean God won’t use you. I attended a retreat where the speaker was not dynamic, but she was sincere. She spoke from her heart, and her heart was filled with Jesus. All weekend I heard testimony of how God used her words to minister to the needs of the audience.

It is good to remember that we are not divas—we are servants. A servant leads people to Christ with her Christ-filled heart. Speak from your heart and allow God to do the rest.

Last, please attend a speaker’s conference where you will receive the training and the confidence to speak with excellence. There are many to choose from and they are worth the cost.

Shona: Are there any closing thoughts you’d like to share?

Elaine: We can write great books, prepare amazing talks, be articulate Bible scholars; but unless our audiences see love in our lives, unless they see Jesus in us, we are only resounding gongs. No one wants to be a resounding gong. The key to effective speaking and writing is Jesus living in us and filling our minds and our hearts until God’s love overflows from our tongues, our pens, and our lives into the hearts of people.

Prayer is another key. Pray, pray, pray, and pray some more. God knows the hearts of your audience. He knows what happened to them this week. He knows their doubts and their fears. Ask Him to reveal that to you and guide you to speak what the audience needs to hear.

Concentrate on ministering—not on performing—and speaking will become a joy to you. I know it has to me.

Thank you, Shona. It’s been fun sharing these thoughts with you. If anyone would like to contact me, I would love hearing from you.

~~~

Elaine W. Miller is an author and speaker who loves sharing the hope of Christ with her audience. A member of the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, she is author of two books: Splashes of Serenity: Bathtime Reflections for Drained Moms and Bathtime Reflections for Drained Wives. She has been a featured guest on radio and TV and on faculty of the Montrose Christian Writer's Conference and the Upstate New York Christian Writers' Gathering. Elaine live in Rome, NY with her husband, Dan. They are blessed with three adult children and seven lively grandchildren. To learn more about Elaine, please see her website, www.SplashesofSerenity.com or her blog at http://www.ElaineWMiller.blogspot.com. She would love to connect with you on Facebook or Twitter @ Elaine W. Miller.

My Reflections on Writing Bathtime Reflections for Drained Wives

2010-08-23T00:01:00.040-04:00

"No one is going to read this!" I assured myself as my fingers pounded out our secrets on my keyboard. My picture-perfect marriage was being exposed with the fact that we had flaws--big ones. No one knew I packed Dan's bags three times the first year we were married. I continued typing knowing if I was going to write a book that would help husbands and wives, I had to be real. I could not have the attitude, My marriage is perfect! Why isn't yours?

When a book contract arrived for Splashes of Serenity: Bathtime Reflections for Drained Wives, I cried--loudly--and wondered if my Pastor husband would lose his job or if my teenage children would forgive me for being in their minds the "Christian Dr. Ruth." All the while, thoughts of if this book helps one marriage, it will be worth it filled my heart.

Months later a stranger approached me and said, "I just want you to know your book saved my marriage." It was worth it. I hope it is worth it to you as well.

Would you like to read it? Diane Estrella is offering a book give away of Splashes of Serenity: Bathtime Reflections for Drained Wives. Leave a comment on her blog, http://www.DianeEstrella.com, and your name will be entered for a drawing. Winner to be announced on August 30, 2010. I hope it is you.

Dan and I celebrate 40 years of marriage this year. How thankful we are that when life was draining, we held on to God and we held on to each other. Now I pray that everyone reads this book. It is worth it.

May you and your beloved be filled with splashes of fun and serenity as you grow together in love,

Elaine

The Blessings of Suffering

2010-08-11T18:00:00.002-04:00

It was a perfect wedding; yet, all was not perfect. What a mixture of emotions and senses. His lovely daughter's wedding canopied amongst the beautiful trees his own lovely bride planted 25 years earlier. Smiles of joy shown on our faces while silent tears of sorrow wept in our hearts.

No tuxedo for this loving dad. He wore a red shirt sewn from red hot chili pepper fabric his wife made for him on a day when her body was not wracked with multiple sclerosis.

He and his beloved raised two precious girls to adulthood. Now on their eldest's wedding day, he walked the aisle alone in body, but together in spirit with his wife now hospitalized--too ill to enjoy the beauty she had planted in the lawn and in the hearts of her family.

"Your daughters are so lovely." I said in honesty. "Yes, they are. They are just like their mother." He replied. "My neighbor told me when my wife was diagnosed with MS that my children will be better people because of it. He was right." Living in a home where a loved one is chronically ill gives everyone a right perspective on what is truly important in this life.

I remember my own little brother being diagnosed with cancer when I was a teenager. God taught me lessons when I was 16 that I might never have learned otherwise--such as, people are more important than possessions and a bad hair day is not the end of the world.

We parents want to shelter our children from the pain of life. But it could be the best thing that ever happens to them. Praying today for this dear dad, his lovely bride, the newlyweds, and their other precious daughter. May you know a splash of serenity from our Father today.

With love and prayers,
Elaine

Blogging Won't Kill Me, Will It?

2010-08-10T16:18:00.019-04:00

Splash! I thought I was diving into the blogging pool last November when I posted my first blog. Turns out I didn't jump at all. I stuck my little toe in, found it uncomfortable, withdrew, and reluctantly returned as little as possible to this stream called the blog.

Voila! Appears my blogging coach--Diane Estrella. Sent from God--we met on facebook--via a blog post--that's got to be God. Right? She is fun and precious and filled with knowledge and a huge amount of patience! She cheered me on with, "You can do it, Elaine. Show your humor. Let the walls down and let people into your real life. Hey, why don't you ask God what He wants you to write." So, this morning I did ask God and now here I sit writing for Him.

I love water. Growing up, I swam in the Beaver, PA swimming pool every day the sun popped up. Too frightened to go off the high diving board I repeated "This won't kill me. I'm not going to die" as my foot touched each of the 12 steps to the top. Walking to the end of the board, looking down at the water, I soon retreated back down the ladder. One day I did it. I jumped. Wow! My battle with the diving board was over and I won. It was exhilarating!

I'm hoping for the same kind of satisfaction as I go ankle deep and then thigh high into the blogging ocean. I suspect it won't be long before the water covers my heart and head and you have all of me. Thanks for your encouragement, Diane Estrella. I know this won't kill me and I hope to give and to receive refreshment and splashes of serenity along my way.

What about you? Is fear keeping you from doing what God wants you to do? He says, "Do not be afraid. I am with you." I hope His Words, "Fear not!" give you freedom to jump into the waters called life, to know and do His will, and to enjoy it to the max.

What does He want you to do today? Why not ask Him?

Splashes of Serenity prayed for your day,
Elaine

My You Tube Debut

2010-08-02T09:50:00.007-04:00

Tummy hungry, brain overloaded, body weary, I strolled into Dreyer Lodge at the Montrose Christian Writer's Conference with hopes of filling my tummy, de-stressing my brain, and relaxing my body. Up jumps Jim Willis, fellow faculty member, blogger and marketer extraordinaire, asking for an interview. Too tired to be serious, I'm a bit giddy in my You Tube debut. I admit to not sleeping well the night after this was taken with thoughts of "My career is over!" running through my head. I share it with you so you can have a giggle too, and hoping there really is no such thing as bad publicity.

Thanks for the interview, Jim Willis. You are a great marketer. Thank you for marketing moi!

Splashes of Serenity on this summer day,
Elaine

The Last Walk

2010-06-16T13:48:00.012-04:00

My dad and I took great walks together. When I was a little girl, we walked in his garden. The corn stalks grew way over my head and my dad protected me. "Don't move!" he commanded. Stopped in my tracks, I looked down to see a big black snake at my feet. Walks in the garden weren't so fun once I realized a snake resided there. In the winter we would walk up snowy hills and ride down on the old wooden Flexible Flyer sled. Dad would lie on his tummy and I would lie on top of him holding on for dear life as we sped down icy slopes. What fun! As we grew older we had longer walks and talks about life and unseen snakes and lions that prowl around seeking to devour naive young girls.

I have a picture to commemorate one of our best treks. On Dad's 87th birthday we walked 27 holes of golf and Dad shot the best score of his life--two over par. Now that was a memorable day as shown from the ear-to-ear grin on Dad's sweet face photographed, framed, and placed predominately on my piano.

It was only a few months later Dad became sick. We sat together in stillness knowing our days together would soon end. The twinkle in his eye sparkled as his mouth looked up in a grin. "Let's take a walk," he suggested. I think in Dad's heart he pushed himself for one last walk with his daughter. We shuffled down the hospital corridor. With one hand he held onto me. With the other, he held the IV pole. We talked about all the walks we had taken. I said the best walk had been the 27 holes of golf on his 87th birthday. He disagreed, saying the best walk was walking me down the church aisle to marry my husband. Our eyes were wet then as they were now. I made a joke about his wanting me married so he wouldn't have to pay my dental bills. But we both knew Dad was giving his blessing and approval of the man we both loved--my husband.

Dan and I treasure our long walks. Walking together is a priority to keep our bodies and our marriage in good shape. Our hands and hearts touch as we walk and talk about life--how good it has been, and how blessed we are by our love. Sometimes, we encourage each other by pointing out lions and snakes the other might be missing. We leave nothing unsaid, for we never know which walk will be our last.

Death can come at any time. It came quickly for my Dad. The walk down the hospital hall was our last walk together. Shortly after, Dad was peacefully ushered to Heaven by God.

Must be God likes walks too. "I will walk among you and be your God." He says in Leviticus 26:12 (NIV). God walked in the garden with Adam and warned him of snakes. I don't think God ever meant us to take a step without Him. He knows what lies ahead on our trail and he desires to talk to us, bless us, and protect us from lions and serpents. Sometimes He'll pick us up and carry us when we grow weary on the journey. Most important, I don't think there will be any disagreement that the best walk will be that last walk when He ushers His followers to Heaven.

If your dad is still on earth--enjoy a walk with him this Father's Day. Time is too precious to miss out on those memories.

Why Attend a Writer's Conference

2010-05-21T11:33:00.025-04:00

If Christians stop writing, what choices will people have at the bookstore and the super market check-out aisle? Trips to the grocery store are enough to spur me on to write and to encourage Christians to publish their stories.

"Get thee to a writer's conference" is my first suggestion to anyone who asks how to get their book published. At Montrose Christian Writer's Conference I sold my first article and learned to write a proposal that became my first book. At Greater Philadelphia Christian Writer's Conference I met my sweet agent, Diana Flegal. My writing world expanded as fellow scribes became precious friends at writer's conferences. Not to mention, you'll laugh yourself silly. Fill a room with writers and let the wit roll. It's worth it just for that dose of medicine.

Last summer during Family Bible Conference at Delta Lake Bible Conference Center, I was approached by two people who share my passion for writing. Debbie Tuthill, a student enrolled in the Christian Writer's Guild, and Dave Fessenden, managing editor for CLC Publications, both came to me within hours of each other with the same thought: Delta Lake would be a great place to have a Writer's Conference. That afternoon Debbie, Dave, and I met under a maple tree. It was apparent this was God's plan for Upstate New York and Delta Lake Bible Conference Center.

The fruit of that meeting grew into the first Upstate New York Christian Writers' Gathering being held at Delta Lake Bible Conference Center in Rome, New York, on July 8-9, 2010. Please consider joining us for two high-energy afternoons. Six seminars covering fiction, non-fiction, writing for adults and for children, and dramatic scripts are offered for a total cost of $25. That's a deal! Faculty include Jon Graf, founding editor of Pray! magazine and the author of six books; Dave Fessenden, managing editor for CLC Publications and the author of four books; Hope Marston, author of numerous children's books; Jim Bogoniewski, writer of over 120 plays; and yours truly, Elaine W. Miller, author of two books. Bring your family and enjoy the added atmosphere of Family Bible Conference with programs for all ages. For more information, please contact me or www.DeltaLake.org under the tab, "Family Camp."

My passion to encourage writers won't end at Delta Lake this summer. I am thrilled to join many authors, editors, and publishers on the faculty at Montrose Christian Writer's Conference in Montrose, PA, July 25-30, 2010. Montrose holds a special place in my heart as this is where my dream and God's call to be a writer was realized. I'll be leading two workshops: "Marketing Your Ministry" and "A Writer Speaks." For more information please see WWW.MONTROSEBIBLE.ORG.

You are the only one who can write your story. Please don't let what God has done in your life remain in your computer or your brain, never to be read by a world hungry for God. Write it and write it well. Learn how at a Christian Writer's Conference. Hope to see you there. Introduce yourself to me. I'd love to share some wit and some splashes of serenity with you.

Blessings on your writing,

Elaine W. Miller
Author/Speaker
www.SplashesofSerenity.com
SplashesofSerenity@yahoo.com

For Those Who Hurt on Mother's Day

2010-05-03T09:35:00.005-04:00

On Mother's Day, not everyone is celebrating. Some are remembering children who send them flowers from Heaven. I've had the awesome privilege of sitting with mothers as their babies died. It's a sacred place where the presence of God is so evident--I felt I might touch Him. The loving arms of Jesus surround these dear parents as they let go and place their precious one back into the arms of The Precious One. In the most awful of life's imaginings, Peace that defies human understanding and could only come from God is experienced.

Why do babies die? Why do some live to be 94? I do not know. I do know we need not fear, because God ministers comfort we cannot understand.

This past winter, Reverend W. Emerson Ackerman went to live with Jesus. He was 94. He joins a baby named Beverly Maxine, gone to Heaven many years ago when she was two days old. Reverend Ackerman sat with Dr. and Mrs. David Reese as their beautiful blessing named Beverly returned to her Creator. He wrote a poem for Beverly's funeral. It touched my heart and I hope it will touch yours.

"We like to feel those infant cheeks,
Tho' ne'er to be by earthly mother caressed.
Yet, better still...
E'en now are nestled 'gainst our Savior's breast.

The tiny hands,
Tho' destined not for use in time's employ,
Yet, better still...
Do clap at each sinner's repentance with joy.

That unspoken voice,
Tho' not in earth's hue and cry to raise,
Yet, better still...
Will learn in Heaven our Lord's blest Name to praise.

We like to feel--yet because it's real
And our beloved Lord has willed it--to say,
'Tis not better...
It's best!'"

--Reverend W. Emerson Ackerman

I pray today for women who hurt: For those whose heart's desire for a child lies hollow in a barren womb, may Jesus fill your life with love and joy and contentment. For those suffering from their decision to abort an unborn, may you know that Jesus will forgive you and make you whole again. For moms whose children are estranged from them, may Jesus restore your relationship. For moms whose children walk in the ways of darkness, may Jesus grab hold of these children and place them on a straight path. For mothers who know the sting of the death of a child, may Jesus fill your empty heart with His comfort and peace.

Thank You for our children, Lord. I know they really belong to You, and You can take them back at any moment. May we not live in fear of that truth, but in trust. You assure us that if the worst happens, Your loving arms will carry us through difficult days. Everything under Heaven belongs to you. There couldn't be a better parent and that brings me peace.

May Jesus fill your days with His Serenity,

Elaine