Dreams. We all have them. Whether we share them with friends or hide them deep in our heart. They exist.

Since Mary Connealy’s message last week, I’ve been thinking again about my dreams. I’ll share some of mine with the hope that you will join in and share yours – I’d really like to hear them.

• I dream…of a book finally published, with the connections God has prepared and in His timing.
  
• I dream…of a new home that does not need “plenty of TLC” but is in move-in condition. Not too big, not too small – with room for a real writerly office with a lovely view on several acres.
  
• I dream…of being closer to long distance friends and finding new ones along the way.
  
• I dream…of living near the ocean, not waterfront, but within reasonable driving distance.
  
• I dream…of God’s divine direction in our lives as a couple, in a new church close to our new home, where we can be effective in ministry and a help to leadership.  Wow – looks like most of the dreams involve re-location!
  

What are your dreams? They do feel more real when you put them in writing : )

Thank you! – for the wonderful show of support for Mary’s books last week. The winner of the autographed copy of “Petticoat Ranch” is Susan Snodgrass! Congrats! Please send me your mailing address.

Because we had so many comments, I am going out to buy another copy and the second winner of a book is Ginger Solomon!

Some writers are able to weave wonderful stories but don’t have the same talent when it comes to speaking skills. Not so with Mary – she excels at both writing and speaking. She did an awesome job today at the Clifton Park NY library, sharing her story, encouraging others to “Strive for their Dream.” It was interesting to hear how this Nebraska gal wrote for ten years without publication and now she has twenty seven books published! Hard work and a deep determination. She never gave up and now…she is living her dream.

Mary’s fun personality shone through her speech and the audience responded with a busy question and answer period, followed by a book signing. I admit I eavesdropped on visitor’s conversations after the session and am happy to report that all the comments were positive – way to go, Mary! Personally, it was an encouragement to hear of her writing journey and a motivation to continue to pursue the dream. I needed those words today.  Thank you, my friend! Following a few more pics from the event.

Mary anxiously...um...I meant eagerly, awaiting her time to speak.

I'm so happy to have a fellow ACFWer in NY!

If Mary’s success has encouraged you, leave a comment to enter a drawing to win an autographed copy of her book, “Petticoat Ranch.”

We reached the official first day of summer this week on June 21st and actually had….Sunshine! The summer days always pass in a blur of motion. The word balance comes to mind. How to balance accomplishing the necessary duties and still find time to enjoy times with friends and family. Perfect days by a lake, or better yet, sitting on an ocean beach, lulled to sleep by the rhythmic music of the waves.

How do you balance your time in the summer?

I’m balancing by taking my own advice from previous blog: if there is sun out there, I’m outside soaking it all in! I’m determined to spend more time outdoors while we have decent weather. I’ll catch up on other things later…

Where does your writing fit in?

My writing fits very nicely with a notebook and pen, in the gazebo in the yard, on the beach, or by a lake.

Where do you write in the summertime?

Thanks for the responses to a perfect summer day and the winner of Broken Trust is: Katie J.! Congrats, Katie! Please send me your mailing address.