YELLOW ROSE CONTEST

Writing News:

Covenant SEAL came in third place. First time I've placed third, and though it feels like I came in last for the world to see, last year I didn't final at all in this contest. So I should just stop sulking. LOL!

I had a wonderful phone conversation with my agent yesterday, and I just want to say how thankful I am for her. She's so supportive and one of my biggest cheerleaders.

Visit her agency at

www.hartlineliterary.com

And her author website at www.tamelahancockmurray.com

In addition to being a stellar agent, she's a wonderful author. I especially like her historical romances.

My friend, Camy Tang, just got a three book contract with Zondervan. Check out her website and congratulate her. www.camytang.com. Camy amazes me with all she does.

My friend Pamela James is finishing up her story this month and getting ready to submit. She's been so diligent in polishing that story and I pray her efforts are rewarded. http://www.pamela-james.com/home.html

My friend Heather is so close to finishing her ms that she could sneeze and hit The End. I'm so proud of her. She builds excellent blogs and hopefully websites soon. www.outthereauthorservices.com

We make up the Fab Four of FabFourBookPicks.blogspot.com

Check out our reviews!

Personal News:

My surgery has been moved to July 31st, so I have a couple mroe weeks to lose weight. I'm kind of bummed because that means I probably could have gone to RWA but I trust that God knows what He's doing.

I've grafted myself back in my home church after hibernating for a couple of years. It feels good to be obedient.

I had a wonderful and surprising phone call from one of the OB employees I used to work with. She said, "I get so lonely for you sometimes." And I cried the rest of the day thinking of how special her words were and how she touched my heart. I miss the people and confess I've not done a very good job of keeping in touch. I tend to neglect my friendships and I am cutting back on stuff so I can focus more on people instead of things. I just want my life to matter. I just want the love of God to reach through me and my talents and touch deeply and irrevokably the hearts of others. I want God's will and purpose to be fulfilled in me and through me. Mostly,

I want people to know Him. I want quality stories with impact. I want everything I spend time doing to matter. Even if it's taking a drink of water to a child. That's where I am right now. And it matters. It matters to them and it matters to God. I love the freedom that comes with a relationship with Him. I love His forgiveness and grace, and that as much as I don't want to look back at my life with regret, He doesn't want that for me either. So I love how He keeps me in line by gentle nudges when I get off track. Okay and when I get waaaay off track, his nudges are a tad more jarring. But I'm thankful for a soft heart that longs to hear and obey. He is good. And I can't wait to see what He has in store.

Squirrel