Two months ago I walked around my block with the sun beaming down on me. Signs of spring were in the air. The lawns around my neighborhood were greening up. Crocus flowers bloomed in my neighbor's flower beds.
 
Then in May, snow flurries filled the air. The sky was gray, and the sunshine from April seemed like a dream. The thing is, I knew the snow flurries would not last forever. Eventually spring took over and winter was only a memory. Now summer is here, can you believe it? It's my favorite time of the year ... sunshine, family, fun!
 
Just as the seasons change, there are changes afoot with my writing and speaking life. You may have noticed the new look of my newsletter and website. As God's plans for me expand (s-t-r-e-t-c-h), my desire is to utilize the messages, stories, and voice God has given me to inspire and encourage others toward fulfilling extraordinary things in their lives. I've been praying for God to continuously improve my ability to serve in whatever capacity He opens before me. The new look and feel of my communication tools is a step on that path. Exciting stuff!  

Speaking of long winters and new life, I've been writing about that. For the past year I've been working on an autobiography of a young woman name Kristen Anderson. You can watch Kristen's story here. At the age of 17 Kristen lost her legs when attempting suicide. Depressed, Kristen had no hope. Yet three months later, she found hope in a new relationship with Jesus Christ. Her life is completely different now. Just being around her is like being greeted by a warm, spring day. The winter is past.
 
I think Kristen's story is one that can provide hope for all of us. I know I'm hopeful. I have hope because I have a God who loves me completely and who has good plans for my life. Thankfully, it's a lesson Kristen learned too.
 
Good changes are happening in my writing too. I've signed contracts to write two more books for Guideposts. I'm also going to be co-writing a novel with my friend Ocieanna Fleiss for Summerside Press. And soon I'll be announcing another book series with B&H. (Fun!) Good things await. Summer joy is here.
 
May God bless you this week with friends, sunshine and smiles ... just as He's blessed me.
 
Sincerely,