I’ve been blessed in this bloggy community by so many amazing and encouraging friends, but one that continues to bless and encourage me is, Linda Stoll of Creekside Ministries. Not only do we have a lot in common {both life-coaches} but we share the same heartbeat in ministry and writing. So I was thrilled when she invited me to participate in a special blog hop—sharing about my own writing, and highlighting a few of my favorite bloggers {Eek! There are too many good ones to pick from!}. So here goes …

What am I writing or working on?

First of all, I’ve been busy working on two e-books this summer. One is a compilation of the posts I did on forgiveness from last October to April. It’s not quite finished, and since I’m something of a perfectionist, it’s slow going! But I hope to have it done at least by Messy Marriage’s fourth anniversary in early October. I’ll be giving this e-book as a complimentary copy to all of my current and future subscribers!

I’m also working on an e-book that’s finished, but needs one final check-over before I publish it. This e-book contains the format that my marriage prayer group has been using each week since March 3, 2014. The e-book contains 16 weeks worth of themes with corresponding Bible verses, prayers for ourselves as wives, and prayers for our husbands, along with a “marriage challenge” or two for each week.

I also have my old Messy Marriage manuscript that’s gathering dust and cobwebs! I’ve been working on that here and there for well over six years! You’d think in that time I could have written six Messy Marriage books! Sadly, that’s not the case for me!

You see, this manuscript is full of very personal struggles that my husband and I went through and, quite honestly, is painful to return to. Also, the idea of sharing it with others fills me with complete dread and self-consciousness! Oh no! So pray for me, dear friends, to push past the trepidation I feel regarding this very important project.

How does my work differ from others of its genre?

I think one way is how I’ve focused on the “messy” in marriage and life—something that’s not always popular to do! But I’m thankful that God has taken my messes and redeemed them, so I can share His hope-filled message with others. I see that same authenticity and openness in many who link up here. That’s why our Wedded Wednesday link up Rocks—being “Real, Raw and Redemptive!” Woot, woot!

Why do I write what I write?

I desperately want to help and give hope to others who are slogging through life’s injustices, losses, longings, and brokenness by sharing how Christ has refined me and my husband through this sacred trust called “marriage.” We’ve walked through some major marriage messes as a couple. I know what it feels like to be discouraged and broken. But thankfully, that’s exactly where Christ does His best work—in and through our weaknesses!

How does my writing process work?

I feel like God is always challenging me in my prayer and Bible study times. I know that ultimately the insights I’m gleaning from Him can help others in their lives and marriages. So I keep a running list of ideas for blog posts—which is currently topped out at 131—to refer to. I’ll probably never write about all of them, but they are my pool of inspiration that I dip in regularly and splash around.

Now I’d like to introduce you to some lovely friends who have amazing blogs that strengthen marriages and point to Christ. Each one of them has been such an encouragement to me that I know they’ll encourage you as well. So check them out …

Joe Pote – “Loyal, Compassionate, Intentional, Protective, Discerning, Witty”

Somewhere between his full-time career as a structural engineer, acting as stable-hand and chief-cheer-leader for his 13-yr-old step-son’s rodeo athletics and teaching a Sunday school class, Joe Pote usually manages to fit in a few hours blogging each week.  On his blog, Redeemed! Joe discusses a variety of topics related to Christian living, often focusing on God’s heart of redemption toward His children who have experienced (or are facing) divorce.  Joe has also authored a book titled, So You are a Believer Who has been through Divorce

Ugochi Jolomi – “Imperfect, Shy, Loyal, Caring, Thoughtful, Resilient”

Ugochi is a follower of Christ with an unquestionable zeal for God. A graduate of Banking and Finance serving in ministry with her husband of over 12 years Benson, and her three sons Joshua, Joseph and Josiah. She blogs at Teshuva where she ministers to many as she shares on a variety of practical subjects from everyday life, encouraging everyone to live life in the truth, peace and joy that come from God and knowing Him.

Becky Kopitzke – “Flawed, Faithful, Grateful, Loving, Encouraging, Introspective”

Becky is a freelance writer, speaker, singer, dreamer, lunch packer, snowman builder and recovering perfectionist. She lives with her handsome husband and their two young daughters in northeast Wisconsin, where a pink indoor trampoline fills half the once formal living room. Becky believes parenting is one of God’s greatest tools for building our faith, character, and strength—and it’s not always pretty. On her blog, Time Out: Devotions for Moms, she offers weekly encouragement for fellow imperfect moms, pointing our weaknesses, blessings, and victories to God. For more mom-to-mom devotions, connect with Becky on Facebook and Pinterest.

What “messes” has God redeemed in your life and how has He redeemed them?

 As you might’ve guessed, I’m back from my sabbatical. However, I’m still limited on my time this week to respond or read other blogs. My husband and I are taking our youngest to college late in the day on Wednesday. I’ll try to make it to those who link up early, but may not make it very far down the list. But know that you are ALL loved and appreciated deeply!

Joining  with  Works for Me Wednesday,  Whimsical Wednesday, Wholehearted Wednesday, So Much at Home and Essential Fridays.

Now it’s time for Wedded Wednesday!
Grab our WW Button Code here!

And don’t forget to include a link back here, because the easier people can find Wedded Wednesday, the more traffic I can send your way!

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