​I stared at an empty computer screen for a long time today, wracking my brain for something to write. Usually, a quote will inspire me or a verse will leap off the pages of my Bible and I'll know just what to write about. 
Not today. 
But sitting here, staring at an empty page, I realized something.
It's okay to be speechless. 
It's okay to be afraid. 
It's okay to stumble.
Sometimes that's what it takes to bring me to my knees.
It's okay to be still.
​Realizing just how weak and small I am is terrifying -- until I am reminded just how strong God is. In my inadequacy, his glory shines the brightest. He uses the broken, the humble, and the speechless. 
Dear Speechless: Maybe He was only waiting for the quiet, so that He could say something for a change. 

"Be still, and know that I am God..." - Psalm 46:10

For the last two months, every word of my writing has gone towards one thing: preparing to attend the Northwestern Christian Writer's conference. 

It. Was. Amazing. 

​My parents decided to drive me halfway across the state to St. Paul MN for my "senior trip". Now that I am officially graduated from high school, I am diving headfirst into as much more learning as I can. ;)

My six-month-old little brother tagged along as well.. <3​

​I can honestly say that I have never been more nervous than I was when I first set foot in doorway of the conference center. I was about to come face-to-face with hundreds of other writers, authors, editors, and a few friends that I had never met in person before. 

But if there is one thing that I've learned in my 18 years of existence, it's to do hard things that scare me. I always walk away glad that I did. 
​

Best of all, I not only had an incredible time at the conference, but I got to spend a lot of time with my parents. It was so fun getting to explore (or get lost...) in the Twin Cities - and I needed someone to rant to when I arrived at the conference almost sick with fear and left walking on air. Some of my favorite memories of the trip were just of being with them.

​Despite all of my dreams and thrilling expectations for the conference, I was still surprised and completely blown away. I was expecting to be encouraged and hopefully propelled a little further along my writing journey. 

Instead, I was set on fire for the gospel. 

It didn't matter where I went, I was inspired to become the best writer I can possibly be, not for the sake of "fame and fortune", but so that I can glorify God. 

He is the reason I write.

Hello Readers! I know, I have been sadly absent over the last couple of months. With summer here, I find it difficult to spend the kind of time writing that I do in the winter - there is too much work and fun to be had. ;) Besides riding and training horses, working a summer job, anticipating haying season, and chasing loose sheep, I also have a few very exciting updates!

You just have to wait until next week to find out what they are - so stay tuned!!
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I took a break from the busyness for a moment, however, to announce the release of a podcast - one geared specifically for YA readers and writers!! 

"The Hope Prose podcast is dedicated to YA Christian books - the authors who write them and the readers they inspire. We upload new episodes once every two weeks and hope to leave our listens with sparks that ignite their own stories--whether their own or fictional. We want our podcast to be a place that inspires you to live a life of creative purpose through reading, writing or maybe even singing. Words are kinda our thing, and communication is one of the most powerful gifts God has given us and we want to stoke the fire in your own faith and creative journey."

I love​ listening to podcasts - especially ones geared towards Christian readers and writers. What about you? What podcasts do you enjoy? I can't wait to hear from you!

   As always, blessings,

I was nominated by the lovely Olivia from Studio Liv to participate in the Liebster Blogger Award! For those who don't know, this award is a fun way to interact with other bloggers, explore new sites, and meet new friends. 

The Rules

1. Thank the blogger who nominated you.
2. Display your award.
3. Answer the questions you were asked. 
4. Nominate 5 other bloggers.
5. Ask 6 new questions. 
6. Let our nominees know they were nominated and give them a link to your post.

My Questions from Olivia

1. What inspired you to start blogging?
When I began, it was a way to share my love of stories and writing with friends and family. Not a whole lot has changed, yet I realize now that my sole inspiration for blogging is simply to encourage others. I want them to walk away from my blog, devotions, or mini newsletters refreshed and inspired!

2. What is your favorite instrument to listen to?
I love listening to any of the instruments that I play... haha! Piano and violin are a couple of my favorites. However, I have always loved listening to the harp and I would love to learn to play it someday. 

3. What is your favorite sport to watch?
I never watch sports!! I'm always playing them. Haha! Volleyball is my favorite. ;)

4. What is your favorite season and why?
Spring or Fall. Why? Because I love the smell of change that fills the air. Both seasons are incredibly fresh and promising. 

5. What is your favorite flower?
Right now, wildflowers, especially prairie roses. They are so delicate and such lovely surprises - like a little smile from God tucked inside the grasslands of North Dakota. On a more formal note - you can never go wrong with roses!

6. If you could have any animal as a pet what would it be an why?
Hmmm... the only answer I could come up with for this is a horse. And I have one. Five actually. They are such powerful yet graceful animals, and they make wonderful friends. ;) Training and riding our horses is always an adventure and they teach me something new every day.​

     Until then, blessings,

   Before I jump into announcing exactly what a cover reveal is (and why YOU should be excited about it) let me say one thing:
​
   Self-publishing is not for the faint of heart. 

   I know. I've done it more than once. But when you are willing to pour the time, effort, and love into your book that it deserves, amazing things can happen. 

   Faith and Kaitlyn are two young authors that I am so thrilled to call my friends! <3 Each girl is a very talented writer, and both will be releasing their latest works this year!!

   A little of what to expect:

You know the old saying, "don't judge a book by its cover?" It's a good one, but it isn't put into practice very often when it comes to actual books. 

Luckily, Faith and Kaitlyn are ready to wow the world of readers.

Are you ready?!
​

Aren't they beautiful?! I personally cannot wait for both books to be officially released this September. 

Check out Faith and Kaitlyn's personal blogs to learn more about them and their books, Freedom and Beloved. If you love encouragement, a little adventure, and inspiration from a couple of Jesus-loving gals, I know you won't be disappointed. ;)

​
​What do you think of the book covers of Beloved and Freedom? Have you ever self-published? What is your favorite genre? I would love to hear about it!

    
​     Until then, blessings,