A Letter to my Readers

Dear Readers,

This is my 50th post.  How amazing is that?!  I would have never imagined one year ago that in less than nine months I would have my own blog with 36 subscribers (not counting subscribers by email!) and such wonderful, new friendships!  God has given me a huge blessing by allowing me to get to know every single one of you.  And 7,050+ page views?!?  CRAZY.

None of this would be possible without you, my dedicated readers!  I am so very thankful that God has led our paths together!  You have been an encouragement to me in my writing and walk with God as I write each post with you in mind.

Almost two years ago a blogging friend of mine told me, "You should start a blog! It's actually super fun to share writing like that..."  I replied that I had no idea what I would even write about!  And yet, God miraculously put it into my heart to start Having a Heart Like His.

I was praying and trying to find out His will for me one day as I did devotions.  Suddenly, I remembered that God reveals Himself through His Word.  Of course, I always knew that...but I didn't often live it out.  Thus, I flipped open my Bible and up popped Psalms 77:12.

"I will also meditate on all Your work, and talk of Your deeds." 

 There was my answer!  If I started my own blog, then in my own way I could talk of HIS deeds!  I could share His love with others around me.  And I could reach out to those that I would not be able to otherwise.  This opened up a huge door to share my faith with people of all ages, nationalities, and personalities.

A friend generously helped me as I began the tedious work of starting a blog.  For someone who never touched Blogger before, it looks impossible.  And it really would have been without her help.  But as I needed it, God has led me through every hurdle that came my way and has helped me overcome them.

And now, nine months later, I am astounded!  Without God, none of this would have been possible.  And yet, without YOU, dear reader, my blog would sit here, the words unread.  Thank you SO much for following my blog and encouraging me in my writing.

My blog has two goals.  The first is to honor God with everything and encourage you in His love.  I want my posts to bring you (and me as I write them!) closer to His heart.  I want us to have a heart like His.  And I want to spread His love to everyone around me.  The second is to grow in my writing skills and learn to use my gifts in a God-honoring way.  You have helped by encouraging me in my writing and giving me feedback through your wonderful comments. =)

Maybe this quote will explain my thoughts.  Unfortunately, I do not know the author of this piece.

"I need you to imagine a purple zebra wearing a sombrero.

You saw it didn't you. It was almost involuntary. One second you weren't thinking of a purple zebra sporting a sombrero, the next second you were. Oooo. There it is again!

What changed? The act of you reading my words. That's because my words have power. I have the power to put images in people's heads with my words. I have the power to make someone feel wonderful or to make them feel unworthy. With my words I can make or break a person or I could inspire, release love, and offer encouragement.

And guess what? Your words have power too. Use it well."

I want my words to encourage, inspire, and love.  And I hope through my blog you have grown closer to God.  Thank you again, dear readers.

With thankfulness in my heart,

P.S.  As a thank you gift, I am lowering the kindle price of my novel to $.99 for one week!  I hope this proves to be a blessing to you.  Feel free to share with your friends/family/readers!  =)  And a review on goodreads/amazon is appreciated, but not required. =)

The Mystery of the Midnight Trespasser