Last week I went to the Declare Conference, where I was surrounded by hundreds of smart, talented, creative blogger types. I came away inspired, full of ideas, and a little bit turtle-like, as I do believe I’ve used up all my extrovertedness until approximately 2024.
At breakfast on the first morning, when we were introducing ourselves to the other women at our table, someone asked what my blog was about. I said it was about grace . . . and promptly knocked my glass of ice water all over the table and onto my lap. Okay, so maybe I should clarify: my blog is about God’s grace, not so much my own physical grace. Glad I could clear that up once and for all.
I had the distinct privilege of being on a publishing panel on Saturday, where I joined a line-up of editors, agents, and writers to talk about some of my favorite things: books, writing, words, and more words! It was like Christmas (except for the part about how we were in Dallas and it was 110 degrees).
Another highlight was getting to hear my friend Lisa-Jo Baker talk about her new book, Surprised by Motherhood. She was brave and real as she shared stories about being a mom and loving well, and she made us cry and laugh in almost the same breath. (For the sake of full disclosure, I was also Lisa-Jo’s editor. You can thank her for the lyrical beauty of her words, but you can blame me if there’s an errant comma in there somewhere.)
In honor of Declare, I’m giving away a free copy of Lisa-Jo’s book. If you’ve ever had a mom or been a mom, I highly recommend this book. It’s a redemptive story about what God can do through the bond between a mother and a child—and how he reveals deeper parts of himself to us through that relationship.
To be eligible, write a comment below about a highlight of your summer so far. Ready? Go! Be sure to enter your comment by Thursday to be eligible to win!
Ooh, I’ve loved a couple of Lisa-Jo’s blog posts and have heard great things about her book 🙂 Highlight of the summer…probably taking my boys to the beach for the first time. Really fun family vacation.
Sounds like a fun family memory, Amy!
My highlight of the summer was most definitely attending Declare. It was life-giving and soul-healing; exactly what I need at just the right time. I was a writer first, pastor’s wife second and everyone understood my introversion in a way I’ve never know. I found my people! I was in the publishing panel session and I’m looking forward to reading your book!
Liz, it was wonderful to meet you at Declare! So glad you found your people there!
My favorite part of the summer was reconnecting with my husband Eric on our 10 year anniversary trip. But a close second favorite has been great time spent with family and friends who are like family that I love 🙂
Ten years! What a milestone. So glad you and Eric were able to celebrate.
I’ve heard wonderful things about The Declare Conference. Maybe next year I will break out of my introverted shell and take the leap. I attended Allume last year and felt much like you. I used it all. Everything. But it was good:). I’ve been wanting to read Lisa-Jo’s book. It’s on my list:).
Have a great day!
I recommend the Declare conference, Jennifer. It’s worth the effort!
favorite bit of summer so far; my son, who is biting his sisters one moment and singing “bless The Lord oh my soul” with a guitar made out of a wooden block the next.
Oh, I wish I could have heard your little man singing! Adorable.
Oh Stephanie, While I’m so sorry that most embarrassing moment happened to you, it couldn’t have happened to a more gracious person…at a more illustratable moment!
I would love to read this book; I have to admit being a bit surprised myself by motherhood. (Who knew I’d be the yelling type?!)
PS: If I haven’t already shared my most embarrassing moment with you, ask me about it next time we get together. It’s far too embarrassing to share in a public forum.
Luann, okay, we need to get together soon! I might need a reenactment.
My favorite part of summer this year was attending my little brother’s wedding!
I’m so glad you were able to be home for it, Sarah!
I have had many highlights of this summer of exploring beautiful places, but one was a moment of backing our truck down a boat launch successfully, then getting to stand-up paddle-board, and watching my kids try an succeed at paddle boarding, too 🙂
What a summer it has been for you and your family, Brooke!
Highlights for me included extended visits with both sides of the family – it’s so nice to be on our own schedule.
What a gift to be able to spend time with family. So many good memories!
I always love to read your writings and they are so inspirational in my walk with the Lord. A highlight of my summer has been my super special family time at the beach. Precious memories!
Tracy, there’s something special about the beach, isn’t there? Thanks for stopping by!
The highlight of my summer so far has been buying our second family home, with 2 little ones it’s much needed extra space! And also seeing my almost one yr old taking her first steps by herself, proud mummy moment 🙂
Oh wow, what a special mile marker to see her taking her first steps! So precious.
I read this and got excited that “I was there!” for the water spill story. It is fun know you, and I look forward to following along with your blog!
Yes! You were there…you may have even gotten wet! 🙂