Joyce Livingston (Author) & Friends

QUILT BLOCK - Spiced prints!

2006-07-26T08:09:00.000-07:00

Spriced Prints! How's that for the name of a quilt block? Being an author of fiction, with a vivid imagination, I'd probably change it to SPICED PRINCE!

I come today - almost dreading what I am about to say. Doing this blog has been great fun. As you've probably noticed, I haven't tried to teach you some great writing secrets I've learned on my way to the publication of nearly 30 fiction books now......I haven't tried to give you long speels to try to get you to buy my books. Nor have I bored you with a whole lot of other things. I love color. To me, it sets the mood for the day when I jump out of bed in the morning. I must have color surrounding me at all times - for excitement, challenge, and an all over good feeling. That's why I decided to use the colored quilt blocks on my blog, as well as a few of the pics of the Tatouage I'm using in my home, AND the purse cookie jars. I hoped the seeing of those colorful items would set the mood for your day, too!

Well, while this has all been fun, it has been time-consuming too (when I should have been writing *sold* books). SO _ _ _ this blog is going on a *Summertime* hiatus. I hope to have it up and running again in the fall. IF you would like to be notified when I get it started again....email me: joyce@joycelivingston.com or leave a comment here on this blog. Otherwise, I do hope you will check back to see when I do start it again. What will I be putting on that blog? Who knows? I guess you'll have to come and see. I haven't fully decided myself.

It's been great having you visit. Meantime, I do hope you'll come by www.joycelivingston.com. No guest book for you to sign, so you won't have to feel like you need to leave a message. Have a great *what is left of summer*! See you in the fall, probably about the last of Sept.

Much love, and thanks for stopping by,
Joyce Livingston, author

Today's QUILT BLOCK - Mariner's Compass

2006-07-22T07:06:00.000-07:00

AH, one of the most popular block patterns ever! But an absolute Nightmare to create. Points, points, points, plus getting that perfect unpuckered center! A real challenge, sometimes, even for the advanced quilter. But, thanks to someone inventing *paper-piecing* and other simplier techniques, blocks like this one are now more *doable* than they were years ago, probably when this old block was made by someone's loving heart and hands. Try to visualize it in an entire quilt of blocks, or in the colors you like best. What would we ever do without our imagination?

Did I ever mention I try to put at least a mention of a quilt in my women's fiction books, as well as my Heartsong novels? Some of my published books are even centered around quilts, such as Lucy's Quilt (an Historical), The Baby Quilt, and others. Both of the books titles I mention were voted #1 Book of the Year by the Heartsong readers. Everyone loves quilts!

Have a wonderful Saturday (and weekend).
Hope to see you back again soon!

Joyce Livingston, author

Quilt Block Lone Star and Cookie Jars

2006-07-21T08:35:00.000-07:00

Hi, again!
At the left, you will see one of the pics I had hoped to share each day with those who visit my blog. It is a pic of just a few (4 and one half of the 5th if you look closely) of my *purse* cookie jar collection. I had planned to show you one each day, as well as other pics of my condo as I am redecorating it. In the works is a major bathroom renovation which will be happening over the next month or so. BUT - - - so far, only 6 people have emailed me that they are interested in home decorating and would like to see the pics. SOOOOOOO - I have decided not to do it. But - - to give you an idea of what I had in mind, I put up this cookie jar pic. I have found most folks have never heard of these cookie jar purses before, but everyone who comes in my house goes gaga over them. 'Nuff said!

Today's quilt block is Lone Star, a very popular block long ago, as well as now. Isn't it beautiful? It's fairly hard to piece, for a beginner, but if you are careful, it can be done. The results are well worth the effort.

Thanks for stopping by - - - hope you'll stop back soon!
Joyce Livingston, Author

MY amazing MIRACLE! plus Quilt block---

2006-07-18T07:11:00.000-07:00

Isn't this a great block? Not for beginners though. The piecing is fairly complex. But, if you're brave enough to try it, it would look beautiful in just about any color combination. It's called LANCASTER.

Okay - - now for my miracle story!

A little over a week ago, I was rounding the corner, running as usual, ready to go downstairs to check the email on my desk computer. But as I turned the corner, I also reached down to pick up the new bottle of Windex I'd planned to carry down to my furnace room, BUT - - - as I did all of this, something happened that happens probably only 3 or 4 times a year. I SNEEZED!!!!! BIG TIME!!!!!

I couldn't straighten up - at all! That has only happened to me one other time in my life, many years ago, and the circumstances were just about the same. That time, it lasted nearly a week. "Oh, no! I don't have time for this!" I cried out to God. But - I stayed that way inspite of my cry - for 3 days! I had to either be upright on my feet, or lying flat in bed. And getting up or down - was miserable! I even tried tilting my laptop up against my knees when lying down so I could work on my current WIP (work in progress to you non-writers), and that didn't work at all. There isn't much you can do lying down. It was difficult to even read. And standing? That was even worse. Every step I tried to take sent a shiver of pain coursing through my back muscles. BUT-----

FINALLY-----The Lord healed me! How? I was doing nearly the same thing again, but this time in a very slow motion, and painfully. Turning to go down my stairs to check my email, WHEN - - I sneezed again! Big time!

KABOOM! The pain was gone! Immediately! All that was left was the tiniest twinge when I twisted to one side, and that was very slight. I laughed outloud. Only God could have thought to heal with the very thing that had sent me into pain and isolation in the first place. A SNEEZE! Like I said, that has been over a week ago and I'm fine! No pain or aches whatsoever. But I'll tell you one thing - if I ever feel a sneeze coming on - I'm going to stop deadstill in my tracks, face forward, and let her rip! No bending! I don't want to go through that again. Each time I think of what had happened and how I was healed, I have to laugh and look upward, praising God. Does God have a sense of humor or what? I LOVED WHAT HE DID! Don't you?

Thanks for stopping by! And don't forget, if you are interested in seeing the redorating pics of my home, leave me a message on this blog or email me at: www.joycelivingston.com. Otherwise, I won't post them.

Joyce Livingston (who daily praises God for his blessings)

I"M B A C K!!!!!!

2006-07-17T06:36:00.000-07:00

I'm finally back! I'm sorry for not blogging for several weeks but LIFE happened! VBG! You know about that, don't you? We all have LIFE happen and change our schedules. After visiting with my son and his family at our cabin on the lake, I came back home, took one look at the walls I wanted to paint and went for it! I knew if I plowed right back into blogging and my writing committments, I'd never get it done, and those walls were bugging me, to the point of distraction.

In fact, I've had so much fun decorating my condo (been in it for about 7 months or so now), that I'm considering adding pictures of what I've done to this blog. SO . . . . . if you'd be interested in seeing what this eccentric romance writer has done to the first 3 rooms she's redecorated, just leave me a message. I'm doing my home in *slightly Victorian* and I LOVE IT! And I have a number of photographs I've taken of it. I even added a HUGE mosaic marble tile floor to my kitchen. It has such tiny pieces you'll be amazed! And ... I bought it on Ebay!

Okay, now for the old quilt block of today. It's called Navajo tulips, Isn't that a great name? Makes you wonder who thought it up! Love the colors, how about you?

Tomorrow's blog will feature a miracle that happened to me last week! A true miracle from God, and it really shows He has a sense of humor. Do stop by!

Joyce Livingston (who is embarrassed about being gone so long from this blog!)
My women's fiction book, THE WIDOWS' CLUB is still in stores and I have another book out this month, SAN DIEGO! Check it out! Both should be in stores everywhere, as well as a few of my Heartsong novels .

BE BACK IN A COUPLE OF DAYS!

2006-07-03T13:25:00.000-07:00

Sorry, no blogs until probably Thursday, July 6th. All because of my birthday which is Wed, the 5th. I've gone out of town to spend some time with my youngest son and family.....which is another of my birthday presents! My official birthday celebration began last Saturday and is still going on. That's the nice part about having a birthday fall each year so close to a holiday! It goes on and on and on! The pic was taken on a Hawaiian cruise.....love the dress but never get to wear it! Couldn't resist adding the pic!

See you Thursday with another quilt block and another Tatouage!
Have a good and safe 4th!

Joyce Livingston, author

Quilt Block #27 and more Tatouage

2006-06-30T07:06:00.000-07:00

Yes, this is Tatouage. Sorry the pic didn't come out as large or clear as I'd like. This is actually about a 7' tree. Of course you put it up in sections, but what a great addition to a plain wall. And the nice part? You don't have to dust it or clean it like a silk tree. Get tired of it? Paint over it and you'll never know it was there.

Today's old quilt block is KANSAS DUGOUT. A little more difficult to piece but not really that hard, especially if you've learned the newer techniques crafty quilters have come up with. Short cuts, if you will. Great color combination, don't you agree?

I hope you're enjoying the old quilt blocks and the pics of Tatouage I've placed here.

Stop back tomorrow for more additions!

Joyce Livingston, author
Latest book, THE WIDOWS' CLUB in stores now.

QUILT BLOCK #26 & more TATOUAGE

2006-06-29T07:16:00.000-07:00

This old quilt block is called - - can you guess? JOY! Wouldn't this be great in a Christmas Quilt? There are patterns available where you can spell out just about any name you want by piecing pieces together such as the quilt maker did here. Great block? Don't you agree?

This Tatouage pattern is one of my favorites, although I haven't used it on my walls yet. It has several companion pieces, such as corners and straight borders. Of course, you can cut any pattern up and place it in whatever pattern sequence you choose, which gives you the option of being creative. On the arch (you may have seen several days earlier on this blog) you will note that I had cut the roses, leaves, and stems in many different ways to make them look more realistic.

Another quilt block and more Tatouage tomorrow!

Joyce Livingston, author

Tatouage and another Quilt Block

2006-06-28T10:30:00.000-07:00

Today's old quilt block is called *Hovering Hawks*. Great name for it. With a little imagination, you can almost see those hawks!

Since so many expressed interest in the pics of Tatouage I'd done in my own home, I decided to add another pic each day for several days.

These new ones are NOT pictures taken from my home, but other Tatouage possibilities from patterns that are available.

And, NO, I am not selling anything! I have just enjoyed doing Tatouage and like to share a good thing when I see it.

Thanks for stopping by. Tomorrow, I'll post another quilt block and nother Tatouage pattern.

Joyce Livingston, author
My latest book, THE WIDOWS' CLUB, is in stores and available on the Internet now.

Another Quilt BLOCK & another TATOUAGE

2006-06-27T06:59:00.000-07:00

This is HONEYBEE! Good name for it, don't you think? And I love the color combination....could it be because there is a touch of black in it? This wouldn't be a hard block for beginnners, if they look at it as a simple 9-patch with simple rectangles and squares added as a border, then the *petals* appliqued onto the finished block. Note the blanket stitching used to anchor the petals. Neat, huh? Gives it that *made long ago* touch.

Now for the Tatouage I promised I'd add today. I've inserted the picture, then added a brief instruction paragraph for you. It's quite simple to do...just a bit time consuming, and it truly looks like you have painted it yourself. You can even see the brush strokes. But it actually takes very little time when you consider the results. Of course, smaller pieces don't take nearly as long to complete. I seem to gravitate toward the larger ones. Actually, this vase/flower wall isn't completed yet. I plan to add an actual fancy white wood frame around to create a border, to make it look like a real framed painting, then continue the burgandy paint color up to the edge of the frame. That will be the icing on the cake! Then when the small lamp beneath is lit, it will shine up onto the Tataouge.

Okay, here are the instructions:
What is Tatouage?
Tatouage designs are highly detailed dry-rub transfers that can be applied to almost any hard surface. Tatouage can give your décor the look hand-painted borders, murals or trompe d’oeil effects. Carefully place your Tatouage transfer, remove the protective backing and rub on the entire design, using the supplied Tatouage tool. As you rub, you can peel back the paper and watch while the Tatouage design transfers. There is no paint, glue, water or fumes involved with the Tatouage transfer process.

See how simple this is? But the results are fabulous! Whatcha think of it?

Joyce Livingston, author
My latest book, THE WIDOWS' CLUB, a woman's fiction novel is in stores now.

QUILT BLOCK #24 and TATOUAGE

2006-06-26T14:34:00.000-07:00

Here's the block. It is called Greek Cross.

Okay, I had promised I would put a picture of my latest TATOUAGE project on my blog, for those who have no idea what TATOUAGE is! This is it! And I did it myself! Amazing, huh?

I had used Tatouage in our cabin and loved it. So did everyone who saw it. It looks like you have painted it yourself, or had someone in to do it for you. So - - when I moved into my condo - - I could hardly wait to paint the walls with fresh paint so I could a add this arch. I love Victorian-type things, as you'd see if I showed you the rest of my house. Or at least the part I have redecorated since moving in about 5 months ago. Of course, there is more to come but for now, it's back to writing!

If you are interested in TATOUAGE and leave a comment or email me telling me you are, I'll post a second picture tomorrow of the other project I've done with Tatouage. It's a gorgeous bouquet of colorful flowers in a cobalt blue vase - - one of my favorite Tatouage pieces and fairly large. And believe me - if I can do this - anyone can! VBG!

Now about the quilt block. I know - - I missed adding one Sunday, but Sunday was a very busy day, like I'm sure it was for all of you, however, I did manage to put the final touches on that Tatouage arch late Sunday afternoon, so I was all finished! What a feeling to see it finally up on my wall.

Joyce Livingston, author

QUILT BLOCK # 22 Grandma's Favorite

2006-06-23T07:43:00.001-07:00

Well, one of yesterday's blocks was Grandmother's Fan . . . today, this one is Grandma's Favorite. Makes me wonder whose Grandma?

I love this simple block. In fact, I have a piece of the fabric in my fabric stash right now. I didn't notice until this minute, this block is upside down! See the letter C? Each block in that fabric has a different letter. But I'm working against a deadline for a book so don't have time to go into my paint program and flip it! Sorry! Needless to say, the J and the L are cut out of my fabric. I've already used those! I do love the idea of fabric with letters in them that you can incorporate into your quilts to personalize them. What a great idea . . . wonder why more manufacturers don't do it. Of course your remaining fabric looks like a piece of Swiss cheese once you've cut out the ones that fit you or your family. Could be that's the reason why?

Speaking of stashs . . . I seem to harbour way more than fabric. I know computers were supposed to save paper and keep clutter from your office area and home . . . but I seem to keep files on my computer AND print things out. My file cabinets are full! I'll bet I could throw away 90% of that stuff and never miss it. My house is always clean and uncluttered but don't look in my file cabinets or desk drawers. I also hate to throw away depleted ballpoint pens. So many have my author friend's names on them. But what use am I ever going to get from a *spent* pen?

Am I the only one like this? I'll betcha I'm not. I'll bet you're that way too! What do you hoard away that is absolutely useless?

Joyce Livingston, author

QUILT BLOCKS #20 & 21 Goose in the Pond and Grandma's Fan

2006-06-22T08:27:00.000-07:00

HOW ABOUT A DOUBLE WHAMMY TODAY? Two blocks, since I had to miss posting yesterday? For some reason, I lost my Internet connection, and since I was so busy writing, I didn't take the time to call the tech and set it up again. Goose in the pond is a great block but, of the two, I have to admit Grandma's fan is my fav! Several years ago I made a really gorgeous quilt using shades of cream, powder blue and peach together with the powder blue sashes and bindings. I even appliqued a huge powder blue bow on the pillow area. Someday, if I have a chance to get it out and photograph it, I'll post it here. Great blocks, aren't they?

A little off the subject but, in my scripture reading today, I read how Jesus was rejected twice in his early ministry by those in his hometown - thus the scripture (and the words quoted so often by so many) a prophet has no honor in his own country. As an author, I immediately thought about the letters of rejection we often receive, and how we have to suck it up and keep on keeping on, or we'll never reach success.

How about the rejections in your life? How do you handle them? Do they come from your family and close friends? Which rejections hurt you the most? Food for thought.

Joyce Livingston, author

QUILT BLOCK #19 Friendship Star

2006-06-20T08:50:00.000-07:00

Wow! Are these colors ever subtle! Pale, but nice, right? Friendship Star. What a neat name for a block, especially since so many of the early quilts were made by friends - for one another. I've never had a friend like that, have you? If you have, you are indeed blessed. Making a quilt, though enjoyable, is a lot of work. To make it for a friend - well, it's amazing that someone would put that kind of work into something and then give it away. Why? Because friendships can disolve overnight. I think we've all seen incidences of that. And - there goes your precious quilt. BUT, some friendships last a lifetime, so what a tribute to make out of honor for that friendship. Like we so often hear - you can pick your friends, but you can't pick your relatives! So - the moral of this story is - choose your friends wisely so they'll be there for you year after year after year - and you for them!

Have a blessed day and write or email a friend you haven't seen for a long time.

Joyce Livingston, author

QUILT BLOCK #18 Exquisite!

2006-06-19T07:36:00.000-07:00

Yep, that's the name shown for this old block - EXQUISITE - and I'm inclined to agree. I like it! I think it has zing. What a simple block to make. Perfect for beginners, and a great way to use up those tiny odd scraps. Look at the very center of the block and you'll see a lopsided star. See it? Isn't that neat? Look at it by tilting your head to the left and you'll see tiny bow ties. The imagery is what makes so many blocks special.

Speaking of imagery (how's that for a lead-in?), I visited another church last night for their Sunday evening service. The speaker, Diane Bishop's son (the Diane Bishop who does the SISTERS program on inspirational channels on TV and had spoken there herself the night before) talked about imagery using a scripture from Ezekiel. What a powerful message...made me do some real soul-searching. It wasn't exactly a Father's Day message but could certainly apply to fathers as well as the rest of us. He used humor to illustrate his points which really made them memorable.

Did you have a good service at your church yesterday? I love the praise music in the Sunday services. Really reves me up and prepares me for whatever will be *laid* on me the following week. So - bring it on...I'm ready! Isn't the Lord good?

Joyce Livingston, author

QUILT BLOCK #17 Dresden Plate, and Father's Day

2006-06-18T14:28:00.000-07:00

Ah, ha! I think most of us know this old familiar block's name - - Dresden Plate. You can tell the fabrics are old in this one - - maybe made from old dresses or shirts. Even the patterns look *old*. None of my relatives ever pieced or quilted quilts. I'm the first one, and of course I went overboard, like I do with everything I tackle. Whole hog - - that's me! Can you imagine what it must have been like during the depression days, when both money and fabric was hard to come by. I can just see mothers who had no money to spend, cutting up dresses and shirts to make something pretty, as well as useful, for their homes. Many of those old quilts are still around - - and priceless. Ever try to buy on of them at an auction? Amazing how much they go for. Nothing is as *comfort-ing* (pun, intended!) as a quilt.

Well, today is Father's Day. We had a wonderful service for Fathers in both my Sunday school class and the morning worship service. But I admit I shed a few tears as I gazed at the empty place beside me on the pew, where my dear husband should have been. He was the perfect father, because he was a godly father who wanted to do what God wanted him to - as a father. Our children were truly blessed to be able to call him Dad. We miss him so much - on Father's Day - and every other day of the year. How I long to be able to kiss his sweet face and say, "Happy Father's Day, sweetheart."

Joyce Livingston, author

QUILT BLOCK #16 Double T

2006-06-17T09:28:00.000-07:00

Okay, I really like the block but the blandness of the colors turn me off. Is it just me? Or do you like the colors?

Actually, I'm not too keen on anything bland - from eggs to someone who is personalityless (is that word?). I love color! It makes my heart sing to see it.

What color (if any) makes your heart sing? Are you a colorful person? In both your likes and your personality?

Tomorrow is Father's Day. My father passed away well over 20 years ago, so I no longer have him with me. My precious husband passed away 20 months ago, so my children no longer have their father to tell I love you. Father's Day is really hard for me. My husband Don was a wonderful father. A perfect example of what I always thought a father should be. I really, really, really miss him! Sorry for waxing nostalgic but holidays always bring that side of me out - now that he is no longer with me.

Kiss and hug your father (and husband) if he is with you, or at least call him on the phone. If your family doesn't normally tell one another you love them....try it! It'll make you both feel better!

Joyce Livingston, author

QUILT BLOCK #16 Diamond Lily

2006-06-16T08:22:00.000-07:00

Though this block in titled Diamond Lily, I have also seen it as Carolina Lily. I've used this same block in several of my quilts and love it. Its appearance changes so much with each color change, and it is a fairly simple block to construct. Picture it in shades of blue. Ah, that would be so pretty, with maybe a soft grey or white background. Just the thought makes me wish I had time to do quilting like I used to have - - BEFORE I became a published author. But, even if I made a new quilt, where would I store it? My closet shelves are already crammed with the 18 bedsized (mostly king!) quilts I've already made and hand-quilted! But there is nothing like sitting in your easy chair, listening to music or watching TV while your fingers work away rythmically at hand-quilting.

I hope your day is going well. Mine is - - so far. This week, I have actually written 23 new pages of manuscript on my second book in the Widows' series - - this one is THE INVASION OF THE WIDOWS' CLUB. I'm having a blast writing it. I adore these characters - - and I should put the emphasis on the word Characters - - for they have their own quirkiness - - which leads to lots of drama, fun, and adventure. Well - - speaking of my characters - - they are calling my name, shouting for me to come and finish the book! S0....I gotta go!

Thanks for looking in. More quilt blocks yet to come!

Joyce Livingston, author
Latest book, THE WIDOWS' CLUB, a women's fiction novel in stores now.

QUILT BLOCK #15 Devil's Claw

2006-06-15T07:40:00.000-07:00

Love this block - but I am not so sure about the name. Devil's Claw? Surely the maker could have thought of a more charming name for this charming block. Um...let's see...what else could we call it? Got any suggestions? How about Pointed Cross? Or Sandburr? Or - - - my creative mind is coming up blank. Let me hear your suggestions.

I did a strange thing this morning. Read through Chronicles in the Bible - yep - all those geneologies! But it was amazing! I can't believe how interesting it was. I'd only intended to read a chapter - but ended up reading the entire thing! How much do you know about your background? How far back can you trace it? Isn't it astounding that someone would take all that time to record generation after generation after generation? But, by knowing that, we can see the linage of Christ, and how important is was that the bloodline was preserved and recorded. I don't know if you mark your Bible up, but I sure do mine. Each time I read it through, I try to use a different color pen to make my markings. It's always surprising to see what things jump out at me one year that I'd not even noted the year before. Yeah for those who took the time to write and record History for us!

Joyce Livingston, Author

QUILT BLOCK #14 and FLAG DAY!

2006-06-14T07:48:00.000-07:00

Do you know what today is? It's not a holiday, but it is an important day in U.S. history.

It's National Flag Day. On this day back in 1777, the U.S. flag was adopted by the Second Continental Congress. Flag Day was declared in 1916 by President Woodrow Wilson.

Today's block isn't of the traditional red, white, and blue colors I would have liked to use on Flag Day, but it is close. I don't have its name but I like the way the paisley fabric has been used with the plaid and the marbelized background. What fun it is to pull scraps together into something as beautiful as a quilt block.

Enjoy FLAG DAY! Isn't it great to be an American?

Joyce Livingston, author

QUILT BLOCK #13 Bradford's Beauty

2006-06-13T09:09:00.000-07:00

Bradford's Beauty? I like that name. Sounds like a good title for a romance novel, doesn't it? And - I truly love this block. The shape, the form, and the colors! Do you like it?

As women, many of us love to do needlework and craft type things. But many of us also like to do other things that do not fall into those lines. I've become a real tool nut! No not the needles, pins, hoops type tools, but the tool-tools. Hammers, pliers, snippers, levels, stud-finders, saw horses, cordless drill - that type of tools. Where my precious husband (who is now at home with the Lord) used to do all the handyman type things and had his set of tools, I now find I am the *handywoman* and those jobs are now mine. That - or I can spend my savings having someone else do them. My sons and daughters are great about doing things for me - but I find I enjoy doing them myself. I even treated myself recently to the purchase of an electric mitresaw with laser! And a cordless nailer that will shoot 2" nails! I haven't used either of them yet (just got them) but plan to soon. I also plan to build my own workbench in my garage and add a wall of pegboard so I can organize my tools (you know-make them look pretty hanging on the wall!) Sorry, can't help it - I'm still a girly-girl at heart, even if I love power tools and what I can do with them.

Do you like power tools? Come on - tell me I'm not the only one! VBG!

Joyce Livingston, author (who should be writing right now!)

QUILT BLOCK BONUS DAY!!!!!

2006-06-12T15:10:00.000-07:00

OKAY.....life got in the way and prevented me from blogging for the past several days! Sorry about that! To make up for it, I've added 4 quilt blocks to this blog. Enjoy them!

I had asked about doing articles and info on my blog about House Flipping, but since I got only a few responses saying they were interested, I've decided not to do it. Takes too much time if so few are interested. Just wanted those of you to know who were kind enough to express your interest. If you enter: House Flipping in the blog search area at the top of this page - you will be shown several sites. I can't say I was too impressed by them, but they do have a small bit of correct information you might find useful.

Have a great day! In addition to painting the interior of my home this past week and this week, I may not be able to blog regularly. Besides painting....I have a writing deadline to meet so I need to plant my seat in my chair and write! Praise God for contracts and writing deadlines!

Joyce Livingston. author

QUILT BLOCK #8 Arrowroot

2006-06-08T07:08:00.000-07:00

Another great old block! This one is Arrowroot. Don't you love the appliqued leaves and the embrodiered stems? And that blast of yellow in the center - really gives this block the *WOW* factor.

The *WOW* factor. When is the last time you've had a *WOW* factor in your life? Like a quilt block, life is kinda what we make it. If we come to a new day with zest, a smile, an anticipation of what that day may hold, it'll probably be a good day - even if trouble comes your way. It's kind of like taking an early morning walk to get your juices flowing, a chance to let your creative mind work.

Or - do y0u have to drag yourself out of bed, ho-humming your way through the day, expecting the worst to happen.

Which kind of person do you want to be? What would be the *WOW* factor in your life that would turn you on? I have a suggestion. Start the day with scripture reading, even if it is only one small chapter. It'll do wonders for you. Could be that *WOW* factor you've been searching for.

Joyce Livingston, Author
My newest book, THE WIDOWS' CLUB, a women's fiction novel is in stores now.

QUILT BLOCK #7 CRAZY SAMPLER

2006-06-07T06:33:00.000-07:00

Wow! Does this block have color or what? I like the mix - it reminds me of a stained glass window. Though it looks hard to make, I'll bet you could make it really simply by doing the 4-patch center block first, then just start on one side and keep adding patches all around the edge until you get it a bit larger than the size you want - then trim it to the exact size. Sounds like fun, doesn't it? Like a puzzle! What a great way to use up all those small scraps you have been saving. As the title above says, this block is known as CRAZY SAMPLER. Don't know who gave it that name, but it fits. Doesn't it?

Also, don't you like the chainstitch handle on the basket? Those small touches really make this block shine.

Kinda like life, huh? Basically routine - but it is those little unexpected happy things God adds to embellish our daily routine - that make life worth while - and make it shine.

Any good things like that happen to you lately?

Joyce Livingston, author

QUILT BLOCK # 6 and FLIPPING HOUSES!

2006-06-06T06:53:00.000-07:00

Hey! Hello again!

Today's quilt block is Annie's Choice. I don't know who gave it that name, but that's the way I received it. Now these colors I like. No--I love them. But I'm a fan of red, pink, rose, burgundy - you get the idea!
If you were doing it, what colors would you choose?

I never see a quilt block but what I think about its creator. How old were they? How long had they been sewing? Was this their very first quilt block. Did they hand piece it because they couldn't afford a sewing maching? Or because they simply love to handpiece? Was it the only block they ever made? Was it intended to be placed in a quilt but the person never had the time, or was unable to complete an entire quilt? Was it handed down to them by a relative? So many questions fill my mind when I am fortunate enough to find one at a flea market, garage sale, GoodWill, etc.

Do you have any precious single quilt blocks in your posession? Did you make them? Did your mother? An aunt?

On one of the quilts I made - a large one to hang over our sofa - I decided to try a new process (new when I made it, that is) of printing scriptures directly onto the fabric in large, bold print that you could see from a distance across the room. It worked out beautifully, and everyone who sees it comments on it. What a way to have the scriptures before your eyes every day!

I've had several write me and say they are interested in hearing more about *flipping houses*. I'd like to hear from more bloggers about this - so if you're interested - let me know! I don't want to post if there isn't enough interest in it - so - if you want to hear about *flippping* - be sure and leave a comment!

Joyce Livingston, author

QUILT BLOCK #5

2006-06-05T06:10:00.000-07:00

I love anything with hearts! Could that be because I am such a romantic at heart? VBG!

I don't know the name of this block, but it is apparent that it has been pieced and then hand-appliqued. Though I wouldn't necessarily have chosen the background colors, I really like them. Just goes to show - you never know something until you try it

Which reminds me....a friend of ours lived in Texas for awhile. One of the radio stations there, KIX, ran a contest asking, "What would you do for KIX (get it? Kicks?). She was one of the finalist. I think her answer was that she would stand on top of their building all day, shouting the same question to the passersby. I don't remember what her prize was, but I've so often thought of that question. So - - I am posing it to you. 'WHAT WOULD YOU DO FOR KICKS?"

So often, people do things that harm them for *kicks*. Others, though not harmful to the body, can get them in real trouble. Think *toiletpapering* someone's trees and yard! We learned at our church service yesterday, a group of teenaged vandals did a truly unpatriotic act over the Memorial Day weekend. Our church proudly flies 100 LARGE American flags across the front of the church property every holiday. Well, that weekend, in the dead of the night, they destroyed 21 of those flags and the flag poles. It's going to cost over $1000 to replace them. Fortunately, the people who lived across the street from the church, woke up and heard the noise, went outside to check on it, saw what they were doing, and recognized them as some of their neighbor's children. So - at least we know who did it! But think of the trouble those kids are in, not to mention all the cost and work to repair the damage!

Amazing, what some folks will do for kicks, isn't it?

Joyce Livingston, author

QUILT BLOCK #4 Amish Diamond

2006-06-04T10:50:00.000-07:00

Most of the time, I have received these blocks without name, however, this one is called Amish Diamond. Of course, I like anything red, so I like this block. But try to imagine what it would look like done exclusively in blue. Or maybe blue and black. That's part of the beauty of being a quilter. You can make your quilt any color you want. Oh, the satisfaction when you can step back, take a look at it, and say with pride, "I did that! I actually made a quilt!"

In church this morning, the pastor was talking about Moses and the time of his birth. How his mother fashioned a basket for him, no doubt lining it with something that would be comfortable for a 3 month old baby. Ah ha! As a quilter, I began to wonder what she might have used. Do you suppose it was a baby quilt? One she made herself. Or maybe Moses' sister helped make. I know...you're going to say....probably not. But who knows? Food for thought.

Joyce Livingston, author
My latest book, THE WIDOWS' CLUB, in stores now.
www.joycelivingston.com

QUILT BLOCK #3

2006-06-03T14:21:00.000-07:00

How do you like this old block? I love the block but I would prefer different colors. But - someone liked it. Maybe it's in your colors. Funny how we each have our personal likes and dislikes that can be so different from one another - yet each is just right for that person.

Well, it's Saturday and I am sorry I am so late in posting this. I was helping my youngest daughter with a project and the time just whizzed by. But how fun it was to work side by side with her. We were cleaning up a mess! I bought a condo to clean up and sell, but it ends up my daughter wants to buy it from me to rent out as income. OH _ _ _ the grunge! This single man had lived it it for less than 2 years and I doubt he had ever cleaned the sinks in either the kitchen or the bathroom. The tub! I can't even describe it! YUK!!!!! I don't know if he even owned a sweeper. The carpet was new when he moved it....but not now!!!! And the windows? NEVER ever washed them or the mirrors. Fortunately, since he didn't want to clean it up himself, he paid my daughter to do it for him. Which worked out great. She'll (with my help) do a much better job than he ever could. BUT - - I am not complaining - - that was one of the reasons I was able to purchase it at an amazingly low price. We're far from through cleaning but she put a *for rent* sign in the window anyway, and in less than an hour, she got a call on it. A call that sounds quite promising.

I purchased it as an investment - a gret one, I think! Once we have it rented, my daughter is going to buy it from me and I'll be off looking for the next one. This will be the second little condo I have flipped in the past 8 weeks. I'm really into this *flipping* thing. I think it's going to be a great way to make a little extra money. I'd like to flip at least 2 little condos a year.

In case you're interested in *flipping*, I'll be covering it in more detail next week!
Have a great LORD'S day tomorrow.

Joyce Livingston, author

QUILT BLOCK #2 - - -

2006-06-02T06:24:00.000-07:00

ANOTHER QUILT BLOCK!

You can tell this one has been hand-pieced and, by the fabric, it looks like it could be years old. Someone put a lot of work into this block. Makes you wonder if the full quilt was ever made.

How many *unfinished* projects to you have stashed away, waiting for the *time* to complete them? No hands raised, please! We all have those, from tiny rips in a seam we intend to sew up to, perhaps, a whole house that needs painting. It sure is easy to put things off, isn't it?

Um - - what's that old saying we hear so often these days? God's not finished with me yet. Looks like even God has unfinished projects! Are you one of them? I sure am!!!! VBG!

Joyce Livingston, author
My newest book, THE WIDOWS' CLUB, is in stores now.
Read an excerpt on www.christianbook.com or amazon.com.
www.joycelivingston.com

QUILT BLOCKS - - -

2006-06-01T07:06:00.000-07:00

Don't you love old quilt blocks? This one is a real oldie! I love the way the person's name is embroidered across it, don't you?

For a number of years, I traveled the country, lecturing on quilting, doing programs, and teaching the art of quilting through workshops and classes. What an experience. There are no finer, more caring people than quilters.

Before I began lecturing (over about a six year period), I made and handquilted 18 quilts, most of them kingsized, and dozens of wallhangings. After that, I began to design, construct, and quilt clothing, mostly jackets. Those were my most popular classes and programs. I made 137 jackets! Yep, that's right. I became known as the jacket lady! The 137 jackets were divided into 2 separate programs that ran a little over an hour each, as I took ladies from the audience and had them model my jackets as I talked about the special features and techniques I'd used in making the jackets. I actually produced and sold a line of jacket patterns! What a great time we had. I quit doing that when my first Christian novel was published! But - - I still have all those quilts, and all those jackets, and may do it again sometime. Who knows?

Actually, quilting was the way I got into novel writing. I was asked to do an article for a magazine about quilting. After that, I sold many other magazine articles on a variety of subjects. Those published articles not only gave me some publishing credits, they also gave me to courage to try to sell my fiction work. So - - praise the Lord for quilting!

I'll be featuring a new quilt block on my blog each day. Come back and check them out daily!

Are you a quilter? Have you ever tried quilting? Is there a treasured quilt somewhere in your past? Let's hear about it. Leave a comment!

Joyce Livingston, author
My newest book, THE WIDOWS' CLUB, is in bookstores now.

Not today!

2006-05-31T07:29:00.000-07:00

Sorry...*crunchtime* today with book revisions....look for more tomorrow!

OH, THE MESS AFTER A HOLIDAY!

2006-05-30T07:08:00.000-07:00

IF A MAN'S HOME IS HIS CASTLE, SHOULDN'T HE HELP CLEAN IT?

This may be a good idea, but how do you enforce it?

On Saturday, 48 people came to my house to spend the day and share wonderful food (some I fixed, but mosty what they brought!). Yep, it was part of my family. My kids and their kids, and we even had another 10 who couldn't make it. WE ARE A BIG FAMILY and I LOVE IT! It was windy outside, but since I live on a lake, that wind didn't bother the kids. They spent most of the day in the water, coming out only long enough to eat, go to the bathroom, and track in sand from the beach. But within an hour after the last ones left yesterday, the place was cleaned up, the final dishes happily washing in the dishwasher, the beds all laden once again with clean sheets, and you couldn't even tell anyone had been there.

What really makes it nice is that everyone, even the little kids, pitch in and clean up before they leave. I'd like to take all the credit for raising them like that, but most of that credit goes to my precious husband. As many know, he passed away with a brain tumor 19 months ago, but his wonderful, sweet, godly, fatherly ways, and the training he gave our children, linger on, and will linger on, for many years to come. Our home was our castle. He built every stick of it himself, and he was right there to help clean up when needed. I no longer live in that home since I've moved to be nearer my children, but I still own it and one of my sons and his family are using it. (It's a cabin on another lake 100 miles from here).

So, my questions is...if you have a man in your life...does HE help clean up your castle?

Joyce Livingston, author
My latest book, THE WIDOWS' CLUB, is in bookstores now.

MEMORIAL DAY MUSINGS

2006-05-29T11:12:00.000-07:00

I have so enjoyed all the wonderful tributes to those who are serving, or have served, in the service of our amazing country, to protect us and make a better, safer world. The sacrifice of so many of them - well, it overwhelms me. The NEWS today, since it is Memorial Day, is filled with stories of such brave men and women.

Then my mind goes to those who are left at home. The wives who long to have their husbands back home where they belong. The children who need their father. The moms and dads who hold their breath each time the news of some crisis or catastrophe in Irag and other countries comes on the TV. And my heart goes out to them, and the other members of their families and friends. We as Americans, whether we agree with those who are in charge or not, need to support our troops. THEY DESERVE IT!

Like perhaps you, I have a loved on serving in Irag. One of my grandsons, who is a husband and father to 3 darling little girls, is there now. Another grandson, just returned a few months ago and is finally at home for good. He also left his wife and 3 adorable daughters to go over there for us. And my son, who flies the King Air for the Kentucky National Guard, just returned 3 weeks ago from his second one-year tour in Germany.

We need to constantly hold these service men and women up in prayer, and let them know how much we appreciate them.

GOD BLESS THE USA!

Joyce Livingston, author
My latest book, THE WIDOWS' CLUB, a women's fiction novel is in stores now!

POWER SURGES

2006-05-27T09:00:00.000-07:00

REAL WOMEN DON'T HAVE HOT FLASHES, THEY HAVE POWER SURGES!

We could all use a power surge now and then...right?

Growing old doesn't have to be the *pits*, although sometimes it seems like it is mandatory. But - how many of us grow old before our time because of our attitude?

As many know, for the past 11 years I have worked as a parttime tour escort, which means I have taken MANY trips, mostly on buses, but also many flying (who would want to take a bus to Europe, Australia, and New Zealand?). As the escort, many times when our driver is busy, I pitch in and assist our passengers as they get off the bus. And you know what? A lot of those people (both men and women) are YEARS younger than me but they are old mentally. Their attitude is old. They *think* they are old. Sometimes, I think they actually want to be old! Others, in their late 80's and even 90's, literally jump off the bus, needing no help at all. And it isn't just because of health reasons either.

Attitude! Finding joy in life. Looking forward to jumping out of bed in the morning. Facing life with gusto. Wow, how much better than to drag through life with no purpose.

How are you facing life? With a smile? A frown? A grumpy attitude? Again, food for thought.

Joyce Livingston, author
My latest book, THE WIDOWS' CLUB, at bookstores everywhere.

ON DIETING!

2006-05-26T08:10:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year when most of us are either dieting, or cutting down on consumption, or counting calories, fat grams, or carbs.

The question I ask myself - - - - WHY DIDN'T I START THIS IN JANUARY?

And have you noticed? The things we SHOULD be eating - like fresh vegetables and fruit - are getting to be the highest priced!
Ain't there no justice? Between fruit and vegetable prices - and gas prices -what's a girl to do?

Oh, what I would give right now for a DAIRY QUEEN cherry-chocolate blizzard! Yum, yum!

Instead, I reach for my daily half of a banana - - - - ho hum!

Joyce Livingston, author
My newest book, THE WIDOWS' CLUB, a womens fiction novel is out now.
www.joycelivingston.com

ANSWERING EMAILS THAT UPSET YOU!

2006-05-25T07:12:00.000-07:00

If you are on a group email loop (and who isn't), more than likely, one or several people on that loop constantly post things you totally disagree with, or feel they do NOT have the knowledge or experience to post their unqualified ramblings (like they know what they're talking about when, most times, they haven't a clue).

So - - -

What do you do about it?

1. Suck up your anger and politely ignore the email

2. Walk around the block to calm down

3. Write a very nice, "Sorry, but I disagree, and here are the reasons why," personal email directly back to them and not to the group

4. Pray for that person

5. Or do you LETOUT YOUR RAGE BY RESPONDING TO THEIR EMAIL IN UPPERCASE?

More food for thought.

Joyce Livingston (who rarely shouts at anyone. Does that make me a wimp?)
My latest book, THE WIDOWS' CLUB, a women's fiction novel in stores now
www.joycelivingston.com

OUCH!

2006-05-24T06:54:00.000-07:00

Someone said, "My bra is now a more of a cross-your-waist bra." Ouch!

I look at those adorable, bra-less young girls in their bikinis or sheer knit shirts and think, Enjoy it while you can. Your DAY is coming!

And then I remember our trip to Australia's outback, and the Aboriginese women who entertained us with their dancing (nothing from waist up but a toothless, expressionless face), and I shudder to think they would go out in public like that. For some reason, naive tourists that we were, we hadn't expected to be *treated* to such a view! Let me tell you - we all gasped when they appeared out of the tall grass and trees and began their *performance*. What an experience. I've never seen so many ---- Um, how can I say this ---- *things* that have gone south and swung to and fro like a clock's pendulum at the sound of the beat of the drum as I witnessed that day.

My final wonder was this - - something quite profound - - When Eve got older, did her ******* go south like the women of our day? Or did God give her a special dispensation because she was the premeir woman?

Something to ponder today!

Have a great one!

Joyce Livingston, author
My latest book, THE WIDOWS' CLUB is in bookstores now!

Grrrrr! Grumble, grumble, grumble!

2006-05-23T08:51:00.000-07:00

I love the character Maxine! She's the symbol of the extreme! I have a brightly colored *fabric* stuffed Maxine, wearing a house coat and fuzzy slippers sitting on the ledge above my kitchen range, with one of her hands resting on the toothpick container. I get a smile on my face everytime I look at her

BUT - - - -

I'm hoping most of us aren't really like Maxine - - with a mouth that easily either gets us into trouble or carelessly causes hard feelings. Our words are like arrows and can pierce even the toughest - - and - - even though those wounds may heal - - they leave scars.

Have you or I intentionally wounded someone lately with our words? Ummm....food for thought.

Joyce Livingston, author
My newest book, THE WIDOWS' CLUB, in bookstores and on the internet now!

HOW DO WE KNOW IF WHAT WE ARE DOING IS RIGHT?

2006-05-22T10:23:00.000-07:00

The gentleman you see pictured here is Dale Lewis. He and his wife, Judy, co-teach the Motivator's Sunday school class of which I am an active part. We average around 150 in attendance each Sunday, many times even more, due to the talent and willingnes of these two marvelous people.

I always enjoy Dale's and Judy's lessons, but I especially enjoyed the one Dale taught yesterday, AM I A BALANCED CHRISTIAN - WHAT'S RIGHT & WRONG? (for me as a Christian). I know many of you (like me) struggle with this question. We don't want to be a stumbling block to anyone. I can't give you the entire lesson, which was basically from 1st Corinthians 8-10 and Galations 5 & 6, but I wanted to share the questions (and a few answers) Dale had printed in our SS bulletin. I hope they will help provide the answers we all seek. Our biggest concern should not be with what people think but what God thinks.

The things listed below are thought-starters. Let me give you an example. You occasionally like to have a beer, yet you know others around you, perhaps newborn Christians, are looking to you as an example - would you have that beer in front of them? This is merely an example. What is right for one person, may not be right for another. This is something only you and I (through prayer and reading God's Word) can decide.

Questions to grow by:
1. What should I give up or stop doing?
(Whatever you cannot do with a clear conscience)
2. How do I maintain a balance?
(There will always be someone who will object)
a. Is the critic growing in the Lord or on the sidelines finding fault?
b. How many people are being affected by what I do?
3. How do I handle the legalistic person?
a. Ignore them
b. Get them aside and tell them where you stand with the scripture
c. Go right on doing what I know is right in God's eyes
4. If no one is looking, can I do whatever I please?
(Not out of simple pleasure to please self, but as you have a clear conscience, offending no one
5. If I am in public and I want to enjoy it, should I?
(If attention is called to you, no. It is better never to risk it.)

Would love to hear your comments - - -
Joyce Livingston, author
My newest book, THE WIDOWS' CLUB, a women's fiction novel is out now.

Spring and flowers!

2006-05-21T10:47:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love spring? As I came out of church this morning it began to rain big drops on those of us rushing out into the parking lot. You know the kind I mean - - big drops, but spaced far apart. And the fragrance? Oh my! I couldn't even begin to describe that fresh - it's raining - scent that filled the air. And as I drank it in, I thought to myself...."Ummm, that means I don't have to water today! My heavenly father has already done it for me."

Isn't it amazing how we take the rains, the sunshine, the clouds, the moon....all of it for granted? Each appears right at the time it should, and we rarely take a moment to think this is all in God's plan. And we are His children! The maker and creator of all those things. I'm sure glad He is in control, aren't you? And that He loves us - despite ourselves

Enjoy this beautiful Lord's Day!

Joyce Livingston, Author
Womens fiction novel, THE WIDOWS' CLUB, out now.

DO YOU KNOW WHAT TODAY IS? ARMED FORCES DAY!

2006-05-20T07:01:00.000-07:00

Surprise! For those who aren't aware of it, or have forgotten, today is ARMED FORCES DAY! On August 31, 1949, Secretary of Defense Louis Johnson announced the creation of an Armed Forces Day to replace separate Army, Navy and Air Force Days. The single-day celebration stemmed from the unification of the Armed Forces under one department -- the Department of Defense.

Isn't it amazing how many of our sons and daughers are serving in other countries - basically, to protect US from the turmoil that is going on over there? I have a grandson serving in our Army in Iraq--much too close to where the action is. He is a young man with a beautiful wife and three precious little girls. I can't even begin to imagine what it is like for him to be over there - where you never know what is going to happen the next minute - see your buddies maimed or killed - and know you could be next. My oldest son just returned from a National Guard tour in Germany (praise the Lord he was away from the fighting), and another grandson returned home several months ago from his tour in Iraq as a Guardsman. He, too, had to leave his family and go.

On this day, even if you don't have a loved one serving overseas, we, as a grateful nation, need to remember those who serve by praying God will protect them. As Americans - we are truly blessed - but as a nation, we are turning our backs on God. Most of us can't go and serve, but we can pray these men's sacrifice won't be in vain, and that our Lord will protect them.

I'm proud to be an American, aren't you? Leave your comment.

Joyce Livingston, author
THE WIDOWS' CLUB, a women's fiction novel, is out now.

Heeeerrrreeeesssss Rebecca!

2006-05-19T06:49:00.000-07:00

Many of you know, have met, or have seen Rebecca Germany, my Senior Editor at Barbour. This is Becky in her office at Barbour Publishing. It was my privilege, along with 11 other authors to visit Barbour a couple of years ago, and was I impressed! I realized a lot happened to my manuscript after I finished with it, but I had no idea how MUCH happened. The writing of a book is only a portion of what goes into the finished product. I don't envy Becky's job. She's a wonder! Yet, she smiles through it all. I highly respect her.

Hopefully, if you are published (or about to be), you have a good relationship with your editor. I've heard horror stories but we won't go there. Your editor is out to produce the best book possible. Sometimes, that requires many changes (revisions) in your manuscript and you'll labor over it long and hard (hopefully not grumblng), but when you get that finished book in your hands and read the improvements that have been made....that's when you have that *Ah ha!* moment. At least that's the way it happens for me. That's when I realize WHY I was asked to do those revisions/edits when maybe before....I didn't have a clue. I liked it the way it was! (Pride?)

Anyway, I thought you would like to see a picture of Rebecca in her office, since many who write for Heartsong and Barbour may have not had a chance to *see* her in her everyday habitat!

Do you have a great association with your editor?
If not. Why not? Food for thought.
Comment...we'd like to hear your experience.

Joyce Livingston, author
Latest book, THE WIDOWS' CLUB, in stores now.
www.joycelivingston.com

I enjoy being a girl!

2006-05-18T06:04:00.000-07:00

I heard a great line yesterday. I've decided to make it my mantra. This is it:

The power of a woman lies in her femininity!

Don't you just love it? Isn't that great? Now I understand you may not agree with me - - but, hey, it's worked for me all these years. I love being a woman! I like looking like a woman. Smelling like a woman. The whole works! And I'm certainly not opposed to the benefits it brings me.

Come on now. Tell me the truth. Haven't you ever used your femaleness to its best advantage? I don't mean outright flirting (unless it is with your husband). I'm talking about the way you smile at a man who offers to change your flat tire for you. Or the way you dress. Or even the way you walk. Otherwise, why would we women punish ourselves by wearing those pointed-toed shoes? You never saw a man in those things (as if their feet would fit). Of course, now that I think of it, I did see men in spike-heeled sandals in the lobby of a fashionable San Francisco hotel. It's amazing what we can get our husbands to do with a few sweet words and the batt of our eyes.

For me, the truth is, I LIKE GIRLY things (as you can see in the pic which was taken while on a cruise to Hawaii). My husband bought me this gorgeous white mumu and then insisted I had to have a flower lei and a flower for my hair. Oh, how I loved that guy! He was Tarzan and I was Jane, though I never tried that swinging through the trees thing with him. I love to surround myself with flowers, candles, potpouri, all those wonderful romantic things. Maybe that's why I love a hint of Victorian in my home decor.

Okay, you've heard my piece. Now let me hear yours? Do you enjoy being a girl? Or if you are a guy, do you want your gal to be feminine? Leave a comment, please!

Joyce Livingston, author
Newest book, THE WIDOWS' CLUB, a women's fiction novel, in bookstores now

2006-05-17T13:28:00.000-07:00

MEET MY KIDS!

2006-05-17T08:46:00.000-07:00

Here is my most prized *possession* - - my six kids. I love them dearly and wouldn't have survived the illness and loss of my precious husband Don if they hadn't *circled their wagons around me* and upheld me during that awful time, and still continue to hold me up. What a great bunch of kids. Very little trouble to *raise* and always had such a sweet spirit. The oldest four were all kindergarten age or under at the same time. I was 19 when the oldest (daughter Dawn in lower left hand corner) was born and 37 when the baby (middle lower) was born. Each has been so special in my life.

Now get this...the boys are named Matthew (upper left) Mark (upper right) Luke (lower middle) and Don (upper middle). Yep...Matthew, Mark, Luke and (haha!) DON! Instead of John. He was the first born son and named for his father. Girls - Dawn on the left and Dari on the right. These are the six children who have given me 25 (Yes, I said 25) grandchildren! (with 3 more on the way). Dari, the youngest, is the mother of 12 and has home-schooled them all.

Though many long for riches, fame, success and other things.....God has blessed me with riches far above those.....by giving me this blessed family. I am a happy, content woman because of them, and because of God's willingness to intrust them into mine and Don's care. And the best part of all? Even if I had those riches, I couldn't take them to heaven with me. But I'll see my kids in heaven, along with their sweet spouses and my grandchildren, because of God's faithfulness. I even have a granddaughter named Heaven! Honest!

Please leave a comment and tell me about your family!

Joyce Livingston, author
THE WIDOWS' CLUB, a women's fiction novel, is in stores everywhere.
www.joycelivingston.com

It's Tuesday already?

2006-05-16T06:53:00.000-07:00

When I got out of bed this morning , gazed out my window (my condo is the one right behind the boat dock by the light, just left of the taller tree and that's one of my DILs in the pic), and thought over the things I'd planned to get done today, I thought - - - IMPOSSIBLE! But - the problem is - I love everything I have on my to-do list, which, of course, is always topped (after reading my Bible) with getting as much writing done on INVASION OF THE WIDOWS' CLUB (the second book in the WIDOW'S CLUB series) as soon as possible, since I always set my own personal deadline at least one month ahead of the one my publisher sets! And, I need to replant the flowers that the two horrific hail storms we had recently shredded and nearly killed out. And do this blog. And check out the ACFW blog site (wouldn't want to miss anything!). And I should go to the store and replenish my low-cal, low-fat foods or this present 8 pounds I've lost in the past 6 weeks will find their way back to whichever part of my body they came from. And---well, you don't want to know the other projects I should take care of.

Do you ever have a day when you get out of bed and ask yourself, "Well, let's see. I have this whole day ahead of me with nothing that needs to be done. What shall I do?" I don't think I've ever had one...not even when I was five years old. My personality type has to have a project going, has to succeed at something. Which actually helps now that I am a published author and have to discipline myself to plunk my bottom in that chair and write, even if there are other things I'd like to do at that moment....like BLOG!

If you could do whatever you wish today----with no feelings of quilt for taking time from the things that NEED to be done----what would you do? I've love to know.

Have a GREAT day!

Joyce Livingston, author
My newest book, THE WIDOWS' CLUB, a women's ficiton, is out now!
www.joycelivingston.com

MOTHER'S DAY - what a wonderful day!

2006-05-14T11:54:00.000-07:00

I had a wonderful Mother's Day, or should I say week? It seems each day this week has brought a phone call, email, visit, cards, flowers, plants, and on and on. Last night I was treated to dinner-out at a fancy restaurant with one of my sons and his wife. It was very special. Today has been just as wonderful as I took part in my Sunday school class by explaining What It Means To Me To Be a Mother, then attended a fabulous morning service at my church, and am currently spending time with most of my other children and grandchildren, then I am going to attend a Mother's Day Program later this afternoon at one of my daughter's church, where 8 of my grandchildren will be performing. What a joy!

But as I realize how truly blessed I am as a mother, I have to stop and think about those who are not mothers. Many not by choice, and my heart goes out to them. Some prefer to remain childless, but many long for motherhood, but it is not to be. I wish I could tell you why God chooses to leave them childless, but I don't have any magical answers. We have to remember He has promised never to fail us or leave us. We can't see the end, but we know He is in control. All I can say is - - - I am so sorry, and encourage all who are childless and who wanted children - - share that love with others. A niece or nephew, neighbor's child, a child in your church, any place else where there are children. You have so much to share. Share that love and it will come back to you one hundred fold.

I'd love to hear from about your Mother's Day. Won't you please leave a comment?

Joyce Livingston, Author of Women's Fiction

THE WIDOWS' CLUB, a Christian Novel out this month

The Day Before Mother's Day

2006-05-12T15:49:00.000-07:00

Last Mother's Day, the book you see here, a Christian romance novel, was released by Barbour Publishing. Apparently it touched a lot of hearts because I got a number of letters and email from readers. I thought showing the cover of my book here would be appropriate since this weekend is Mother's Day. Though it came out a year ago, it can still be ordered Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Chritianbook.com and probably even Ebay.

Here is an excerpt from Chapter 1

MOTHER’S DAY by Joyce Livingston (me!)

Chuck O’Connor stormed through the door of the house on Victor Lane, slamming it behind him and tossing his set of keys onto the highly polished hall table with a loud thud.

Mindy, who was sorting through the day’s mail, spun around to face her husband, ready to scold him for his careless act. But the look on his face told her something was radically wrong. Although she had seen his angry side many times during their troublesome fourteen-year marriage, she’d never seen his hands tremble or his face so flushed. She hurriedly placed the mail on the coffee table and rushed toward him. “What’s wrong?”

Chuck yanked off his coat, tossed it on a chair instead of hanging it in the closet as was his usual behavior, and pushed past her with a grunt.
She planted her balled fists on her hips. “Chuck! Are you going to tell me or sulk all by yourself?”

He snatched up the mail and began sorting through it, dropping several envelopes on the floor in the process.

Her patience wearing thin, Mindy crossed the room and yanked on his sleeve, her own anger rising. “All right, don’t tell me then,” she told him in a stern voice, holding up her palms between them with a frown of frustration.

Tossing the mail back on the table, Chuck plopped his lanky body onto the sofa, fixing his elbows on his knees and cradling his head in his hands. “Jake suspended me.”

Thinking surely she had misunderstood his barely audible words, Mindy sat down beside him, placing a hand on his shoulder. “Jake suspended you? I find that hard to believe. You do everything by the book. You’re always the top one in sales. Why would he suspend you?”

Chuck sat stone still and didn’t respond, his head still resting in his hands, but his rapid breathing told her his anger had not subsided.

“Chuck?” she said softly, gently rotating her fingers across his tense shoulders. “Don’t shut me out. I’m your wife. You know you can tell me anything. Why did your boss suspend you?”

Swallowing hard, he slowly lifted his face to meet hers. “You may not want to be my wife when I tell you.”

She gave him a puzzled look. Whatever could he mean? They’d had some pretty rocky years, come close to divorce more times than she cared to remember, but they’d str
uggled through each problem and stayed together. What could be worse than anything they’d faced in the past?

“I’ve—“ He paused, still covering his face and pressing his fingertips against his lowered eyelids. “I’ve been accused of molesting someone.”
Mindy stared at him. “What? You? Molesting someone? That doesn’t make any sense.” She scooted closer, her hand still resting on his back, her fingers splayed. “Who accused you?”

Slowly, Chuck pulled his hands away and with misty eyes, turned to face her. “Jake called me into his office and told me. It—it was one of the women employees. Michelle Stevens.”

Mindy tried hard to put a face to the name. Had she met this woman at the company Christmas party? “Is that the little bimbo in the accounting department? The one with the bleach blond pony tail and the false fingernails?”

He shook his head. “No, Michelle is nothing like that. She’s—plain. Kinda ordinary. Has short brown hair and wears glasses.”

“Why would she do such a thing? I don’t even remember you mentioning her name.”
Chuck leaned back and locked his hands behind his head, staring off in space. “I—I never did.”

“Chuck? Why?” Mindy’s heart sank. “Was there something going on between you two?”
His brows quickly furrowing, he glared at her. “Of course not! How can you even ask me that?”

She shrugged then let out a sigh. “Something must have happened between the two of you to get Jake that riled up. Why else would she make such a statement?”

Though Chuck only lifted his shoulders in response, there was something about the look on his face that gave her cause for alarm. In all the years they’d been married they’d had problems—many problems, but infidelity had never been one of them. Surely not now—not when their life had finally settled down into a compatible routine.

“Chuck! I asked you a question. I think I deserve an explanation. What did Jake say?”

“It’s not true, Mindy. I swear it! It’s not true.”

She grabbed tightly onto his wrist. “Are you going to tell me what Jake said, or am I going to have to call and ask him myself? I will, you know.”
His long fingers clamped her hand. They felt warm. Almost feverish.

“Okay. Let me start at the beginning.” He pulled his hand away, rose, and began pacing slowly about the room. “Jake called me into his office and we talked for over half an hour about business, his family, my family, where we planned to go on vacation this year, all sorts of things that really didn’t matter. I could tell he had something on his mind, but I had no idea what. Finally, he leaned across his desk and pointed his finger in my face and asked, pointblank, if I was having an affair with Michelle.”

She blanched at his words. “What did you say? Are you?”

He rammed his fist into the palm of his other hand, glaring at her. “No!” I answered an unequivocal ‘No’! Of course, I wasn’t having an affair with Michelle! I told him that.”

“Apparently, he didn’t believe you. He suspended you!” she shot back, half wishing she’d kept her silence until he finished his story.

His eyes flashed. “Hey, where’s the trust a wife’s supposed to have for her husband? You haven’t even heard me out and you’re already finding me guilty,” he countered, his voice rising.

“I never said—“

“But you implied it. That’s just as bad.” He lowered himself into a chair opposite her and, gripping the arm rests, bent toward her, his face contorted with anger.

“Now, do you want to hear the whole story or not?”

Her heart pounding, and feeling annoyed by his patronizing behavior, she nodded. “Yes, I’m sorry. Go on.”

“It appears that Dixie, one of the secretaries in the sales department, was in a stall in the ladies restroom when Michelle came in and called someone on her cell phone, not realizing Dixie was there. She told whoever she was talking to that she had a new boyfriend and mentioned his name was Chuck, but cautioned them to keep it quiet because the man was married. Then, when she discovered Dixie was there, she begged her not to tell anyone about the conversation she’d overhead.”
Mindy couldn’t help letting out a gasp but kept her silence when Chuck frowned.
“I guess Dixie told everyone.”

“Did Dixie or anyone else tell Jake what she’d heard?” Mindy asked cautiously.

“No. Not then. Not until after he talked to Michelle.”

Mindy frowned. If Dixie hadn’t told Jake, why would Jake talk to Michelle about it?

“I guess I’m not making myself clear.” Chuck gave her a weak smile. “This thing has me so upset I’m not thinking straight.” He gave his head a frustrated shake, then continued. “Michelle went to Jake early this morning and told him I’d molested her. That’s what this is all about.”

“Why would she say such a thing?”

“I don’t know.”

“She had to have said something convincing enough for him to suspend you.”

“The sad thing is, he put me on suspension but let her keep her job! Some justice, huh?” The two sat silently staring at one another. There was so much Mindy wanted to know but she refrained from asking, sure her questions would only throw Chuck into a tirade. If he was innocent, he had every right to some righteous indignation. If he was guilty, any words she hurled at him would only fan the flames.
Finally, Chuck turned to face her again, taking her hands in his. “I didn’t do it, Mindy. I know, at times, I have a hot temper and I let it get the best of me, but I’d never hurt a woman in any way. You know that. Over the years we’ve been together, you’ve angered me to the boiling point a number of times, but I’ve never struck you or laid a hand on you.”

“Are—are you saying she accused you of hitting her? That kind of molesting?”

Chuck gave a sad shake of his head. “No, the other kind.”

“Chuck! This is like a bad dream! Why would she accuse you of something like that, if it weren’t true?”

He glowered at her, his face flushed and his fists clenched. “So you believe it, too, eh?”

“I—I didn’t say that.”

“You didn’t? It sounded that way to me!”

Mindy bit her tongue, trapping the words that nearly slipped from her mouth, a retort that would have angered him even more.

“I never—let me repeat—I never molested that woman—in any way!”

“I—I can’t imagine that you would. Tell me the rest. What happened after Jake asked you about her?” Mindy prodded gently.

“According to her story, I had come on to her, invited her to drive up to Providence and have dinner with me a few times, and things got pretty heavy between us. She even claimed I’d told her you and I were getting a divorce.”

“A divorce? We haven’t talked about a divorce for three or four years!”

He patted her hand. “I know. She went on to say that she had decided to break things off between us. She also said that, one night after we’d been to dinner in Providence and went back to her apartment, she told me she was calling it quits and I got really mad. She claims—“ He paused and pursed his lips. “She claims I slapped her around, then made advances on her and when she refused, I—I raped her.”
Mindy’s hands flew to cover her face. “Oh, no, no, no, no, no! I can’t believe this is happening!” The room began to swirl about, making her dizzy. Though Mindy had never fainted in her life, she was sure this was going to be the first time.
Chuck grabbed onto her arms so tightly she squealed in pain. “I didn’t, Mindy. I swear it! None of this ever happened.”

Mindy felt sick to her stomach. “You never drove that woman to Providence like she said?”

He shook his head vehemently. “Not one time!”

“Then, why, Chuck? Why?”

“That’s the same thing Jake asked me.”
Fighting back a stream of tears and feeling light-headed, Mindy sucked in a cleansing breath of air. “I find it difficult to believe she would make up a story like this, and then just waltz into Jake’s office and tell him!”

Chuck braced an elbow on one knee, cupping his chin in his hand. “Jake said he had a hard time believing it, too, and, although he wasn’t completely convinced she was telling the truth, he said he had no choice but to put me on suspension until her accusations could be proven or disproven. It’s a serious charge. I’m well aware of that. To make things worse, Dixie verified the restroom cell phone conversation.”

Mindy dropped to her knees in front of Chuck, lifting her face to his and gripping his hands. “Look me in the eye, Chuck, and tell me none of this is true.”
Her husband of fourteen years trembled. Finally, his eyes filling with tears and his voice breaking, he answered. “Some—some of it is sort of true.”

Musings on Mothering--in honor of Mother's Day

2006-05-12T06:09:00.000-07:00

Last night, quite late, I was watching TBN. A panel of five mothers, probably all in their 30-40s, were discussing what it was to be a mother. I was impressed with everything they said, especially one point. They all agreed, even though their children got out of hand at times, and even though the mothers often times threw their hands up in the air out of frustration and a feeling of inadequacy as mother, when God picked them to mother these children, He picked them because He knew they were the perfect woman for the job. NO ONE could do it better! What a revelation!

Did you ever feel you didn't have what it takes to raise one of your children? Maybe the rebel of the family? I think we all feel that way at times....even if our kids are little angels! Ha! Is there really a child who is a little angel - - ALL the time?

As the mother of six, I've learned that my children are exactly alike - - yet completely different. Does that make sense? Probably not, but it is true. And if you have ever read or heard Dr. Kevin Lehman - - you know there are certain traits each child has because of their birth order - - their position in the family. Each of my children has a soft caring side. Each is mild-mannered. Each extremely responsible. They are all slow to anger (even when they were kids). Like to please. Great parents to their own children. Yet - - some are stronger and more able to cope that the others. Some are happy and upbeat all the time, taking things in stride without missing a beat, while others are more melancoly, more easily discouraged, not as quick to bounce back. That's what I mean by different.

The great thing is - - if you are a mother - - and you love the Lord - - you have been called to raise that child. Never fear - - God is near.

As we look forward to Mother's Day this Sunday, let us take a look at ourselves. Are we living up to the role we have been called to? Are we a godly example to our children? When we are old will they call us 'blessed'? And more importantly, when we stand by our Maker, will He say, "Well, done, thou good and faithful servant?

I don't know about you but I loved (with the amazing help of my husband, their father) raising my children. I loved every age, including the terrible twos and the tumultuous teens. Today, those kids are my best friends. What more could a mother ask?

Happy Mother's Day,

Joyce Livingston

Well, I did it!

2006-05-11T16:17:00.000-07:00

I've been bitten by the blogging bug! Thanks for coming by. In the future I'll try to add some things of interest to both those who write -- and -- those who -- read!

As a published author, I've learned a lot on the way to publication and I'd like to share that info with you -- so that -- if you are an aspiring author -- you maybe be spared from experiencing a number of things I've learned the hard way.

In addition to being an author of Christian Romance and Women's Fiction, I feel I have been called of God to be an encourager of women. I'll be posting some bloggs that I hope will be an encouragement to you (if you're a woman) and educational to you (if you're a man)!

In addition to my own musings, I hope to have my author and agent friends offer their tidbits on publishing.

So, give me a few days to get my *blogging* feet on the ground and I'll be off and running!

Your *new* Blogg friend... and true romantic at heart...

Joyce Livingston
Author of THE WIDOWS' CLUB
released this month to bookstores everywhere