You guys. I cannot believe it's been two months since we last chatted! The spring is notoriously busy time (Maycember, anyone?), and the last several weeks have FLOWN by. Because it's been so busy, I have a LOT of fun things to share. Good news is the weather is ✨perfection✨ today, so grab your coffee, tea, lemonade - whatever! - and let's chat on the porch for a bit.

First things first

I've made you all wait long enough for the giveaway winner from my *ahem* March newsletter. I truly loved reading everyone's replies, sharing what had made them smile recently. Did you know that replying to an author's newsletter - even if it's a super short message - makes our day? You guys definitely gave me a reason to smile, so thank you.

The winner of a $10 Amazon gift card is Anise at [email protected]! Congrats, Anise! Be on the lookout for the gift card in your inbox.

More fun things

I've got some really fun writing related news to share! I am a member of ACFW, one of the largest (if not largest) organizations for Christian authors, and they hold a variety of contests each year, both for published and unpublished authors. At the beginning of the year, I entered the Genesis contest, and at the beginning of May, I learned that I am a semi-finalist in the romance category!

My immediate reaction was to laugh, because it seemed so unbelievable. But it's true! I'm in the top seven out of hundreds of entries.

My name, right there!

Six other friends of mine are also semi-finalists, so it's been super fun to rejoice with them. We will learn who the top three finalists are in each category at the ACFW conference in late August, and a couple of days later they will announce the winner of each category. Maybe I'll have more exciting news to share after that? Maybe, but even if this is the furthest I go, I'm incredibly honored!

Another year down

The school year just ended for us, so my three girls (and me!) are all on summer break. My oldest is officially a senior, my middle a sophomore, and my youngest a 7th grader. Our school has 6th grade graduation, marking the completion of elementary, so this week has been full of special and poignant moments. Instagram also keeps sending me posts to "parents of juniors," and you guys... they make me cry every time! As I told some friends of mine, I'm in this constant bittersweet state of being filled with immense pride while also desperately trying to hold on to the time we have left. The last 17 years have flown by, so I know the next year will happen in a flash.

Whether you are in a similar boat as me and getting closer and closer to launching your child into the world, have littles who still need you for what feels like every waking moment, are an empty nester, or don't have any kids, let's make the most of these next few months, shall we? There's nothing quite like the long days of summer. I pray you get to soak in each one.

Writing Update

More good news! I've finished edits on my novel! Right now, I am finishing up my book proposal (a document that goes to publishers to pitch my book) and then hope to send everything to my agent very soon. It's definitely an exciting stage, and I continue to covet your prayers as we get ready to send this work out. May God's will be done!

What I'm reading

I've not had tons of time for reading lately, but I did read the latest release from my friend, Jamie Ogle. Daughter of the Rebellion released a few weeks ago, and it's SO good. Jamie is an insta-buy author for me and her books just do not disappoint. If you love historical fiction that weaves in real people and real events, (of if you can't get enough of deep stories with characters that will challenge and encourage you) I cannot recommend Jamie's books enough.

I'm getting ready to dive in Remarkably Bright Creatures after hearing so many good things about it. I'll let you know what I think!

Author Spotlight

Each month I am highlighting a different author that is represented by the same literary agency that I am, and since I missed April, I've got TWO highlights for you today.

The first author spotlight this month is Caitlin Miller!

Caitlin can be found online at www.caitlinfaithmiller.com.

Sign up for Caitlin's newsletter and receive a FREE copy of her short story, The Gray Poet. You can sign up for her newsletter HERE.

A little bit about The Gray Poet...

During the Great Depression, Elliot Poet splits his time between Tennessee logging camps and local cemeteries, where he writes poems to escape the weight of his past. But everything changes when he finds a haunting poem about death with a blackbird signature and a chilling countdown. With only two days to unravel the poet’s identity, Elliot exchanges poems with the mysterious writer, which forces him to confront his inner demons. 

When an old flame returns to town, Elliot grapples with rekindled feelings and the urgency to save a stranger. 

With time running out, will Elliot be able to save a soul in despair—and, in the process, save himself, too? 

The second author spotlight this month is Charlsie Estess!

Charlsie worked in finance and strategic planning before tackling the full-time rearing of two strong-willed boys. Through professional and mission projects, she has been blessed to encounter and work with some unforgettable characters on five different continents, experiencing amazing adventures and also witnessing some heart-rendering scenes. Forever a wanderer at heart, Charlsie knows everyone needs inspiration, a friend who packs a punch, and escape from time to time. She prays her stories give voice to women who have not always had a voice.

Charlsie can be found online at charlsieestess.com.

Sign up for Charlsie's newsletter and receive a Girls' Night In Idea Sheet - A complement to her book, When the Ocean Roars. You can sign up for her newsletter HERE.

It was so nice to enjoy our time together, friend. I pray the upcoming month is full of wonderful things that bring constant smiles to your lovely face. Looking forward to chatting with you again soon.

Until next time,