Draft One Completed! -- Booya

I am thrilled to announce that as of March 13, 2024, at precisely 16:40, I have completed the first draft of my book, currently titled “The Battle, God’s Armor, and Wonderful Freedom.” Such a journey!

To say I’m happy would be an understatement. The process of writing this book has been like embarking on an unforeseen adventure with out a map.  Particularly, the completion of a chapter that I had initially believed would be straightforward became my Everest. This chapter, not the last in the sequence but certainly the most daunting, required not one, not two, but five attempts since early January. The struggle was real, yet, here I am, filled with relief and a sense of accomplishment, for I have finally crafted it in a way that flows perfectly with the rest of the book.

My immediate plan is to bask in this achievement and share my joy with my daughter and her YWAM SBS team while they are in town. After their departure, I will embark on the journey of refining this draft, a process I approach with equal parts excitement and determination.

In preparation for the second draft, I’ve already begun compiling notes on word choices, themes, and the overarching narrative arc. The aim is to weave a tighter, more cohesive message, one that leaves a lasting impact. Now that I can view the manuscript in its entirety, from the raw beginnings to its rough conclusion, I am more attuned to the nuances that need attention.

As I close this chapter (pun intended) and look ahead to the next phase of revision and refinement, I am filled with a sense of relief and joy. Here’s to the journey ahead, filled with more learning, growth, and joy as the pages of my book continue to come into shape. Thank you for being part of this incredible journey. Onward to the next chapter!

One more chapter...

Hello friends!

Another week another step closer! I am just one chapter away from completing the first rough draft of my very first book! It's been a whirlwind of thoughts, prayers, writing on my days off and in-between times, but here we are, on the cusp of something new and exciting.

What comes next, you ask?

Well, I've been giving that a lot of thought lately. My plan, as it stands, is to move through the next stages with the same faith and flexibility that has brought me this far. Once the first draft is complete, I'll dive into the second draft. This is where the real fun begins—adding content, cutting the fluff, cleaning up my thoughts, and ensuring everything flows consistently. It's like sculpting, starting with a rough block of marble and chiselling away until something special begins to emerge.

After that, a third draft will focus on the finer details: grammar, spelling, and perhaps refining my choice of words. It's all about polishing and preparing it to shine.

But I know that a book, especially one intended impact lives, cannot be born in isolation. That's why I'll be looking for 3-5 keen-eyed readers to provide honest, constructive feedback. If you're interested, stay tuned for how you can be a part of this journey.

Based on the feedback, I'll make adjustments and then... it's off to the publishers! This is where the path may fork—will it lead to traditional publishing, or will I venture into the world of self-publishing? Time will tell, and I'm open to where this adventure leads.

I'm charting this course as I go, friends. I have no roadmap for the path I'm on, but that's part of what makes it so exciting. Your encouragements mean the world to me, and I can't wait to share each step of this journey with you.

Happy Birthday Dad!

My sister sent me this old picture of my dad holding me as a baby.

Was I the original inspiration for 'The Elf on the Shelf?'

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First off, a huge Happy 73rd Birthday shoutout to my incredible dad! Your unwavering love and support have been amazing.

I'm excited to share that I’ve reached another milestone – 75% completion of the first draft of my book. The finish line for the first draft is now set for March 15th, ambitiously timed to coincide with the arrival of my daughter and her missions team to Scotland.

However, this goal does come amidst a whirlwind of commitments. This Sunday, I’ll be concluding my teaching series on Abraham at Re:Hope Church. It's been a powerful journey, and I'm gearing up for a seamless transition into a series of special teachings as we move closer to Easter.

Additionally, the calendar is marked for March 12th, when I’ll have the privilege of teaching the book of James at the Scotland Bible School. (Coincidentally, my sister’s birthday.)

With a bustling schedule ahead, I'm leaning into the challenge with gratitude for the support network surrounding me – from my family to my church community and everyone in between. Your encouragement fuels my determination to meet these goals head-on, balancing the demands of teaching, writing, and all the things.

I’m calling on your continued support and prayers as we venture through this packed season together. Every message of encouragement, every prayer, and every bit of support adds strength to my journey.

Pray for me that all will go well, and as I study, write, and speak that God will help me in the most obvious ways.