Estes Park Conference

Home safe and sound. The conference was great with so much learning. I was reacquainted with old friends and made many new ones. A publishing house is interested in seeing my manuscript. But, as I was warned by a new friend--wait and see, don't jump ahead. I'm excited that I had opportunity to meet with a couple suspense writers. Other seeds came from the conference and I hope to watch them grow as well.
Blessings,
Jackie

Preparation

The writers’ conference in Estes Park is closing in on me and preparations are coming along—slowly, but they are coming. Two chapters of a novel are completed, a one-page book synopsis, 500-word of the first chapter for the Nangie part of the conference, and an 18-chapter synopsis. I hope to get a book proposal done within the next few days. Then, about six hard copies on 24-lb paper for editors and agents. CD discs will accompany the hard copies along with a photo business card. Thank you notes will be tucked away for those authors, editors and agents I will meet.
What to wear?! Oh yes, jeans are a must have for the casual times in the mountains. But, time had to be set aside to coordinate outfits, jewelry, purses, etc. Can’t forget about marketing, can I? I need to think hard about a bio and platform as well.
Sound like a busy time? That’s preparation. As I meditated on preparation and what that word means, I found a great definition—to make ready beforehand for some approaching event or need. Jesus is doing that for us now. He told us so much in John 14:2, “In My Father's house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you.”
When I prepare for something, I am constantly thinking on the matter—like the writers’ conference. I want all the details in place. Not only does Jesus put all the details in place for us, he reveals them to us. 1 Corinthians 2:9 & 10—but just as it is written, “Things which eye has not seen and ear has not heard, and which have not entered the heart of man, all that God has prepared for those who love Him. “For to us God revealed them through the Spirit; for the Spirit searches all things, even the depths of God.
The next time you sit with your Bible and a nice cup of tea, why not do a topical study of prepare? His Spirit will reveal things to your heart—because you love him!

Ravishing Saturday

Today looks to be quite ravishing with the Son as the sine qua non that will create a real beauty. Though the temps here in Monument are a cool 25 to 27 degrees, the day will heat up quickly as others and myself pound the pavement to petition our Congressman onto the ballot. If you are in El Paso Country and are a registered Republican, please call me :-)
The writers' conference at Estes Park is crouching up on those of us who are going. Thinking about looking at laptops this afternoon. Any suggestions where I might get a good one for a decent price?
I hope you all have a very blessed day and enjoy the sun. Get out, breathe and take a walk!
Blessings,
Jackie

Hidden

Friends often ask me if I have any pointers of good vacation spots in Colorado. My photo albums capture everything from the most majestic snow-capped mountain ranges in The Rocky Mountain National Forest to the tiniest chipmunks on the tundra. The undisturbed forest is at its best in the cool evenings. Fresh morning dew permeates the air and awakens visitors as Humming Birds dance outside their windows. My favorites photos are the ones like the Elk among the Aspens in Autumn. Drive ever so slowly through the Rocky Mountains--feel every bump. After all, that is what makes them mountains! A small stirring in the forest may reveal Elk hidden in their natural habitat. They know they are protected and fear nothing.
The body of Christ is to be the same. We are hidden. We are protected. And, we should fear nothing. So, the next time you are confused or a bit fearful, close your eyes and allow your mind to drift to the Elk who are hidden here. Picture yourself hidden with Christ in God...
...Colossians 3:2-4 ~~Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth. For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, is revealed, then you also will be revealed with Him in glory.