Nestled in the Woods

A new book is on its way.  “Soar Above the Yesterdays” is a sequel to “All Things”.  The rough draft is complete and in the hands of a first reader.  The next step will be an editor, and then the difficult task of re-working the story into a book we can all enjoy. Hopefully, it will be in print by the end of 2009 or before.

“Soar Above the Yesterdays” is the continuing story of Susanna Elder, her twins, and her friends and family.  Whereas “All Things” is a story about the dilemma of unanticipated pregnancy, “Soar Above the Yesterdays” works through the problems following a young woman who has normal feelings, wants a normal life of romance, career, and hope for the future.  Although the concept of “secondary virginity” is the primary focus of the book, a bit of mystery combined with romance and career decisions carry the focus to its logical conclusion.

Many of the same characters carry Susanna’s story through 1956, both in Grassy Branch and Kenbridge.  Carly Rose, Duncan, Grandpa, Aunt Sarah, Jim Bob and many others play important roles in her life.  You will meet many new faces, as well.

I’m looking forward to sharing with you the conclusion to Susanna’s story.

Hope is Just Around the Corner

 After a long, cold winter we hope for Spring.  I’ve got good news: spring’s hope is just around the corner.  I could see it in the yellowing of the willows and the reddening of the maples, and the increase of the bird population.  It wasn’t official, however, until I saw the first wild flowers blooming in the lane.  Today I was surprised (as I am every year) to see my patch of coltsfoot lifting their bright yellow faces to the sun.  Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara) is the first real wild flower to show itself in our hollow.  Notwithstanding, there are always a few dandelions that are foolish enough to bloom in the dead of winter…they don’t count.

Spring is a metaphor for hope.  I’m neither an optimist nor a pessimist.  I’m somewhat pragmatic without subscribing to pragmatism, but I believe in hope.  I believe that no matter how long and cold the winter of our existence may be all things will work out for God’s glory and our good.

War, death, dysfunctional families, foolish choices…the list could go on…all contribute to our wintery outlook.  Yet peace, eternal life, perfect union in God’s family with his perfect guidance throughout eternity is the hope of the Christian.  As we celebrate Easter we are encouraged for the Hope our own newness of life.  “Even so, come, Lord Jesus!” (St. John).