Blog Archives

Sixty Symbols of Love...Just Because He Loves Her

6/30/2013

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"And now these three remain:
faith, hope and love.
But the greatest of these is love."
1 Corinthians 13:13

"And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony."
Colossians 3:14

"We love because
He first loved us."
1 John 4:19

A rose is a sign of love...
Who gave you, your first rose?

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Did you know the "Vine" is more than a plant?

6/29/2013

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In today's fast-paced, and every changing, computer age it's hard to keep up. Earlier in the week I received an email introducing me to "The Vine", now available on Twitter. I shook my head and saved the email for a different day.

After spending time with an old friend and discussing the value of social media to promote God, my writing, speaking, and books, I decided to revisit the email. Within minutes I was downloading the "Vine" App to my phone and creating my first video. It automatically posted to Twitter ~ how sweet is that.

My goal is to post at least one short clip on the "Vine" daily. The first two introduce you to each of my books ~ important information for those just "finding" me.
Speaking of "finding me", if you would like to follow me on the Vine - I'm listed as "Lisa M Buske", just like my Twitter, Linked In, and Facebook accounts.

What is the "Vine"? Basically, if you are familiar with Twittter - short and sweet messages, limited to one-hundred forty characters. Characters, not words - so this includes punctuation and spaces. The Vine is a short video that posts to your Twitter account. Short, sweet, and to the point! Maybe this will help me tighten my writing a little more?

~ Today we have a social media vine ~
How will you share the One True Vine on the Vine today?

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In times of weakness...where is your strength?

6/28/2013

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On April 3, 1994 my only sister, Heidi M Allen, was kidnapped while working alone at the local convenience store. She remains missing today. I believed in God when she disappeared but I didn't have a relationship with Jesus so when tragedy struck, I was weak. I did my best to stay strong for my parents, my Gram, the community, my husband, and the list could go on and on.

Instead of reaching out for help from the people in my life or fro God, I let the pressure and stress wear me down slowly the decade following Heidi's kidnapping. Thankfully one child told me what I needed to hear, "Mrs. Buske, You need Jesus." and invited me to church the following Sunday.

It was at this point I started to move forward in God's strength, not my own. And you know what, I realized no one expected me to be strong. A good and healthy cry every now and then is still beneficial because this is when I give all the stress, doubt, fear, sadness, and ick of life over to God.

His shoulders are bigger and stronger. When we are weak, we truly are strong when trusting God to get through. Through, is the key word.

I pray you find strength in the Lord too.

"For the sake of Christ, then, I am content
with weaknesses, insults, hardships,
persecutions, and calamities.
For when I am weak, then I am strong."
2 Corinthians 12:10

When was your weakest moment, where did you find strength?

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Take it One Step at a Time

6/27/2013

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Last year my parents gifted us a deck. Dad designed it, and with the help of my husband, brother-in-law, and a couple friends - it was completed. Mom helped to seal it and shopped for the patio furniture. We only had the new furniture for a week when the wind came up and smashed the new glass table into shards.

This was devastating at first but I couldn't let a broken table ruin my summer so I shared and idea with my Dad. Within a few days he added plywood to the table frame. We all sifted through family pictures and made a collage on top the wood - it was a beautiful table top of memories for the summer. Sadly, it didn't fair well in the sun and rain. It was a faded and torn but a remembrance of a family time spent.

"Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen. He named it Ebenezer, saying, “Thus far the Lord has helped us.”
1 Samuel 7:12

This spring I found a great wrought iron patio set for an amazing price, so the tattered table was stripped of the remaining photos and placed on the side of the road. A family took it to do the same thing ~ isn't that cool, our family idea passed along to another. As I stepped off the deck to flip the burgers the other night I said, "I wish I didn't have to put shoes on to get to the grill, or that I wasn't such a wimp about stepping on the little rocks." We all laughed but this gave me an idea.

We have lake stones around our fire pit and in the flower gardens, or should I say, "We did." Now they reside on top of the pea stones between the deck and the grill. Guess what, I placed a few stones between and thought, "Wow, that looks good." and a couple trips to the lake as a family created this beautiful addition to our back deck and my writing escape.

"Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers,
but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit."
Ephesians 2:19-22

I'm thankful for parents who listen. My dream is to one day own a writer's cottage by the water. Instead of waiting for "someday" to come, my parents used their love as fuel to make this dream come true now, rather than later. A crick runs by our house so I now have a writer's cottage by the water in my back yard - the lake stones were the cherry on top of a great gift. One that keeps on giving. Thank you Mom and Dad!

"Whether we see a roadblock or a
bridge depends on our view on life. With a positive outlook, we can turn any obstacle into a stepping stone."
~ Kemmy Nola ~

Don't focus on the wrong turns, celebrate the steps taken!

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Highlighters and Stick Notes...Oh My!

6/26/2013

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Are you a creative person? Which side of the brain do you use more - that analytical or creative portion? Or possibly both? In my younger years, both sides of my brain had equal opportunities to exercise their gifts. The more I write, create words, and move forward with my writing and speaking ~ I've learned my creative side is not quite as organized as I like.

Some who read this, those who remember me when, are probably laughing so hard coffee came out their nose. Why all the laughter? Great question. If there are things that drive me crazy, then flighty, disorganized, and late are at the top of the list. I am becoming an example of these same things when I get "in the groove" of transpiring and idea from my brain to paper, or computer.

I strive to be organized, on time, and clear in all that I do yet when an idea takes my thoughts captive ~ watch out because I'm no longer on the world's time but on Gods. During the school year I set an alarm to end my quiet time with the Lord, and an alarm to stop working on my blog, the next book, or an upcoming speaking engagement.

Why an alarm...because this is the only thing to pull me away from spending time with God or spending time doing what you are the most passionate about. To seek His face, write, and speak represent things that toss my pet peeves out the window.

Another way I stay organized and on task is the use of sticky notes. Assorted colors, sizes, and varieties are common in my work space, each of my bags, and even in my car. They are accompanied with a color assortment of markers, pens, and sometime pencils. One of my favorite pencils are the scented ones, my friend Aimee introduced these to me.

I'm an eclectic writer and like to surround myself with tools so when the opportunity to write arrives, I'm ready. Oh, and don't forget the one subject notebooks and steno pads, or a lap top. Have ideas, will write them down. And thanks to vacation, I have time too. Life is good...

What supplies do you keep within reach when creating?

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T.O.P.'s Tuesday ~ Balloons of Hope

6/25/2013

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Photo used with permission: Thank you Emilie Huxley...

It's been six weeks since the Ride for Missing Children in the Mohawk Valley. As part of the ride there was a balloon release - the white represent the hope we have for our missing children to be found. I hope you'll take 2:22 minutes to watch the video because you'll realize there is a lot of hope, more hope than missing children. The colored balloons represent the missing children remembered at this year's ride, fallen law enforcement, and Sara Ann Wood.

Awhile back I shared the song, "Somewhere Out There" and its significance to Heidi and I. This is the same song the school's chorus sang for the balloon release. A powerful, positive, and perfectly beautiful remembrance. Thank you RMC/MV! Our missing will never be forgotten, your efforts throughout the year encourage the families of the missing more than you may know. May each of you be doubly blessed.

Have a great day everyone!

How will you share a little hope today?

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Let Summer Vacation Begin...

6/24/2013

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Yesterday was a true day of rest. Our pastor preached his last message at Community Alliance Church in New Haven, New York. He, and his family, depart to start pastoring their new church, the Amherst Alliance Church in Amherst, New York. It might only be a few hours away but in the grand scheme of busy and crazy schedules, it feels like further.

I'm excited for their new journey and ours, as the Community Alliance Church. Pastor didn't preach a depressing last message but instead encouraged us, the church, to pray for the journey before all of us. Two churches and many families starting new adventures this week, may God be glorified through it all.

Typically the last day of school is exciting and busy. Once I arrive home from school, I organize the ten-month tornado within our home, get ready for graduation, and then join the community for the graduation ceremony. Afterwards, I return to our humble abode to finish the organization and cleaning. I wake up on Saturday to a house ready for a few weeks of vacation, company, and writing.

This year was very different. Instead of cleaning, we enjoyed time visiting with my parents and then went to graduation. Saturday, for the most part, was spent taking Motrin for a really bad headache, and resting. Saturday evening we went to one of the four graduation parties we were invited too, visited with friends for a bit, and then returned home to a good night's sleep. Sunday was church, "Until we meet agains", and more graduation parties. This morning, mission organization went into full throttle.

Almost time for supper, a list for Lowes waiting to be purchased, flat rocks to be collected, and I'm contemplating "What is for dinner?". I love summer - today is officially the first day of summer vacation and I look forward to the days ahead. As soon as the house is finished tonight, this author and speaker is getting to work.

Well maybe after sitting on the deck for a couple hours of listening to the crickets and wind rustling leaves again, like we did last night. Happy summer everyone!

What rituals do you have before vacation kicks off?

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The Facebook "Where's Heidi? Book Party" Was a Success

6/22/2013

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I tried something new last night. One thing we, my family and I, have strived for is to keep the mood upbeat and positive since the journey to publication started. We want to model the possibility of surviving and thriving in this lifetime, especially after a tragedy or loss.

I wasn't sure how an online book party worked but I went into with only two goals:
1) To have fun
2) To give away a couple books

Both goals were accomplished! Thank you all so much for showing up. Some left comments, asked questions, and private messaged encouraging words. I was overwhelmed with your kindness and remembrance of Heidi.

It was a learning experience. At first I thought I was alone but then realized I needed to refresh my Facebook page every so often. Once I did this, the mad typing started and at twenty after ten, I stopped. If my daughter and I didn't have a "Madness Sale" date at the local thrift store, we would have continued.

If you want to read some of the questions, comments, or watch some of the videos I posted ~ visit my "Where's Heidi?" Facebook page to see what you missed. Click on either photograph for a direct link. A huge thank you to all of you for the constant support, prayers, and encouragement. And a special thanks to Mags for the photo creations you see here and last night. A team effort with God leading the way.

Congratulations
Cindy Dunphy Knight
Melissa Dunn
Amy Hibbert Gracey!!

What was your favorite part aspect of last night's online party?
Is there something you didn't get to ask or say?

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You're Invited to my 1st Facebook Book Party - TONIGHT at 9 p.m.

6/21/2013

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A few weeks ago I was invited to a "Facebook Book Party" by author Steena Holmes for her newest release of Emma's Secret. I thought, "Well, that could be fun." and started to brainstorm ideas. I wasn't able to make Steena's party due to another commitment yet a little research and creative thinking - the party is tonight!!

After we return home from graduation I plan to sit at the computer, log on to Facebook, and "get this party started". Are you asking, "Lisa, what is a Facebook book party?" Wonder no more. In the new age of digital technologies - this is a way for readers to connect with authors in an intimate way from across the country, if not the world. I will share tidbits about writing the book, respond to questions, possibly share some video responses, and no book party is complete without a giveaway or two!

For an hour on the "Where's Heidi?" Facebook page, you an expect the following:

1) Tidbits shared about writing both books
2) Question & Answer time pertaining to the book, my writing, and speaking. (I will not answer questions about the criminal case)
3) Giveaways!!
4) Video responses (if I can figure it out)

Will you be joining the party? I hope you will.

Share this blog and Facebook post with all your friends and family. Let's get the word out - 9 p.m. tonight on the "Where's Heidi?" Facebook page I am hosting my first online book party. I look forward to "meeting" you all there. If you haven't liked the "Where's Heidi?" page yet, it's not too late.

When you see this logo - you will know there is a give away around the corner. Copies of Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey and When the Waves Subside: There is Hope are on the list to be given away. I have another thought too but don't want to reveal all the excitement now.

Everyone's Invited ~ 9 p.m. on the "Where's Heidi?" Facebook Page
See you tonight on the net!

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"Sissy's Song" ~ Missing My Sister

6/20/2013

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An aspect of my speaking some might not know is the flood of emotions that follow. Last night, my friend Mary Jane and I traveled to Fulton so I could share in Fulton at the CNY Art's Center, as part of their "Author Spotlight". This monthly event is organized by Jim Farfaglia ~ a gentleman with a heart to promote local authors and the arts. His introduction of "who" I was and his response to reading Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey touched my heart to say the least. Thank you Jim and Nancy for the invite and a beautiful evening.

It was an intimate group and I found myself sharing things I don't normally. One thing I've learned through this process is to trust God when He places something on my heart to share. Each time I've shared an unplanned tidbit, God brings someone forward to share how that exact part helped them. God is very cool like that, He knows what we all need, when we need it, and how we need to hear it.

While last night wasn't the first time I've spoken or had a book signing, it was the first time I was asked to "read" my book aloud and talk about it. This was difficult because as I read the memories, emotions, and sadness overcame me. I found myself fighting back tears more than normal. To read Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey takes me back to 1994 in an instant, a feature that is usually the first one complimented by readers, yet as the sister living this journey ~ it triggers the memories.

I'm thankful for my friend Vie's encouragement to write Where's Heidi? in the present tense. She was correct, it made for a more enjoyable read, for you, the reader. My friend Laurie shared this song with me via Facebook this week and as I listened, I just cried. This is such a beautiful song. I don't know how long its been out but I've heard it for the first time this week. A powerful song, to say the least.

This weekend we'll be having a "Book Party" on the "Where's Heidi?" Facebook page. If you haven't liked the page yet, be sure to do so. Tomorrow's blog will have information about the party and how it will work. This will be an interactive, fun, and modern way to share Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey, ask the author questions, and meet others who have read or are reading my books.

Thank you all for remembering Heidi!!

Don't Worry... When do you need this reminder?

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Another First...A Public Reading of both my books TONIGHT

6/19/2013

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Posted on June 5, 2013 by Contributor
FULTON, NY – The CNY Arts Center of Fulton announces its next Author’s Spotlight, a monthly program that introduces local writers and their recently published works to the community.

On June 19 at 7 p.m., author Lisa Buske will offer a presentation and reading from her book, Where’s Heidi?, One Sister’s Journey.

To read the remainder of this article - click on the photo above.

CNY Arts Center
357 State St.
Fulton, New York 13069
315-592-3373
http://www.cnyartscenter.com

Will you be joining us for the reading tonight? I hope so!

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T.O.P.'s Tuesday - Mixing It Up

6/18/2013

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It's that time of week again to bring everyone up to speed on current events as they pertain to my writing and speaking. If you are in the Fulton area tomorrow, Wednesday, June 19th at 7 pm, stop by the Central New York Art Center. I will be reading "When the Waves Subside" and reading from "Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey" with a Q & A at the end. I'll have copies if both books available for sale too.

The CNY Art Center is located at 357 State Street, Fulton, New York. For more information, visit their website at: http://cnyArtscenter.com and their is a news article link below too.

Next week I will be hosting my first "Facebook Book Party" on the "Where's Heidi?" Facebook page. The date and times wil be announced this weekend.

http://oswegocountytoday.com/?p=11898

There are a couple exciting book announcements coming too, it looks to be a fun and exciting summer.

Many changes for my family and me yet all exciting and we hope to give God the glory in the end. May we reflect Him, and may you do the same.

What do you hope the announcement is?

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Do You Celebrate Each Day or Wait For a Reminder

6/17/2013

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"Look, the winter is past, and the rains are over and gone.
The flowers are springing up, the season of singing bird has come,
and the cooing of turtledoves fills the air."
Song of Solomon 2:11-12

I spent yesterday with my Dad. In a sense, it wasn't any different than a typical Sunday afternoon but to most it was a special day, Father's Day. Please don't misunderstand me, "Father's Day" is an important day each year because our fathers deserve recognition.

I love my Dad so much and thank God daily for the relationship I have with both my parents. For those who don't have this positive and beautiful bond with your Dad or Mom, I pray you've come to experience it through your relationship with Jesus ~ God is a loving, compassionate, and Heavenly Father, ready to shower you with an eternal love you'll never forget. I'm blessed with the love and bond of both. Doubly blessed, I feel a song coming on. lol

Seriously though, why do so many people wait until Father's Day to recognize their dads? A favorite Sunday memory of my childhood was the time spent at my Gram's for dinner. Once we were old enough, we were able to help set up and it was a family day. This is a tradition we've continued with my parents. The gathering is much smaller yet the love is just as abundant. Yes it was Father's Day yesterday but we didn't spend the day together because the calendar told us it was appropriate. Why would we wait for a Sunday in June to express our love for each other.

My father and I worked together to prepare dinner for us all as my Mom and Mary chilled in the other room. Dad and I walked the yard taking pictures of the flowers and garden. We all sat around the kitchen table to enjoy dinner once Ed arrived from a long day at work.

I spent the entire day with my father but never thought to wish him "Happy Father's Day!" until we had been there three hours, left to get groceries for my Mom, and returned. I walked in and said, "Oh my gosh, Happy Father's Day." We all laughed. Everyday is Mother's and Father's day in our family. Only God knows what tomorrow brings so we don't wait for the calendar to remind us to honor, love, and spend time with our loved ones. It's a daily celebration, the celebration of life.

Do you celebrate your loved ones on a daily basis?
Are you waiting for the calendar to remind you?
Cherish each moment...

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What do you do when the rains stop?

6/16/2013

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This is a question we should all be able to answer after this past week's constant rain. I challenged you last week to think of the rain as God showering you with His love.

Did this concept help you appreciate the precipitation's benefits more? I'm thankful for God using another's devotion to change my perspective on the flooding rains - flooded with God's love.

On a lighter note, what have you done to brighten and fill your days while the rains fell? Have you started your first book? Finished one? Read a book? Cleaned the house? Snuggled in for a movie with the kids? Walked the mall? Slept in? Went for a run? Nothing at all?

With rainy days ahead again this week - how will you spread a little Son and joy to those around you?

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One Winds Down and the Other Picks Up

6/14/2013

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Happy Flag Day! This is one of my favorite days of the school year ~ to see the fourth graders stand in front of the school and lead us in a medley of patriotic songs and writings. In eleven years, I've yet to keep from tearing up. A beautiful representation of our country, children, and future. Another reason this touches my heart so much, it reminds me our school year is coming to an end.

Of course I love summer vacation and look forward to the busyness summer offers. No worries Mom, Dad, Auntie M, and Ed ~ the schedule includes scheduled "vacations", "days off", and beach-work days. I'm not one to sit around doing nothing for too long so to be busy doing the things I enjoy with the people I love are joyful opportunities.

With only five days left of this school year and a mere eight weeks before we return to a new term, my schedule transitions from a 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. job to a fun and exciting 10 a.m. - 2 a.m. adventure of writing, resting, and sharing.

This summer is different than last because instead of sharing Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey at book signings and speaking engagements, I was in the final stages of editing and revision ~ working with a couple editors to release the best book possible as a first time author. Graduation is next Friday, June 21st, and my first scheduled writing-related happening is the following week. On the 28th I'll join an old and dear friend to catch up and share our testimonies before heading to Delta Lake for the Alliance Women's "Summer Renew" with my girlfriends from church.

On July 1st from 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. I'll be selling and signing books at the New Haven Town Farmer's Market located on Route 104 in New Haven, New York. I look forward to joining a host of vendors for this weekly community event. If you are a local author looking for an opportunity to reach others in the area with your book, contact Deb Allen at the New Haven Town Hall, (315)963-3900 for more information. A special thanks to Deb and the town for the opportunity to kick-off the "Guest Author" table.

A couple weeks later I join the ladies of a local church to talk about Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey. They are reading the book, using the discussion questions in the back, and invited me to come and share with them. I'm honored and humbled to know a women's Bible study selected my book. If you are doing the same thing, I'd love to hear from you.

If you have a small group, Bible study, or women's group looking for a guest author, inspirational speaker, or opportunity to meet the author ~ drop me a note.

I also look forward to visiting as many public libraries as I can this summer to share a little hope and Where's Heidi?

Do you know of any libraries, book stores, Christian shops, or coffee shops looking for a guest author? Feel free to share my name and information or send me their name and contact information. Who knows when I'll be in your neighborhood. See you soon!

The game of life...up and down and always a journey!

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Let's All Praise The Lord

6/13/2013

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The "th" in Thursday reminds me to be thankful each week. Today I am thankful for the love, healing, forgiveness, provision, grace, mercy, patience, endurance, perseverance, and overwhelming blessings in my life. All possible because God chooses to bless me. I don't deserve any of it yet God "chooses" to bless. Is that not cool or what?

As graduation approaches and summer vacation is close enough to touch my heart is focused. Relay for life is tomorrow, an annual reminder of cancer's impact on our society. While this event weighs the loss of family, and this year, my dear friend LMD on my heart...it also encourages me. God is the Great Physician and Healer. The Bible tells us our days are already written and determined, only God knows when we will take our last breath. Instead of focusing on the loss, I choose to turn my eyes upward and trust Him and celebrate life.

There might not be a cure for cancer, yet. Children and adults remain missing, for now. Death is a part of life yet when you have a relationship with Jesus, acknowledge you're a sinner, repent of your sins, and give it all to God to carry. You have the promise and hope of eternity in heaven, eternal life.

I don't know what tomorrow, or even five minutes from now brings BUT I know who is in charge of it all, so I choose to praise God for it all. There is so much good in this world, sometimes we just need a reminder to focus on the positive with our eyes focused above instead of inward.

What can you celebrate and thank God for today?

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Loving the Indie Life...Meet Some of my Indie Friends

6/12/2013

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It's that time of the month again! You know it, nothing is sacred on the blog. You guessed it, it's the "Indie Life" monthly post. What were you thinking? Oh, you silly, silly, reader. There are some things you don't put on the blog. TeeHee

Anyway, let's celebrate the life of the Indie author. Some of you might be asking, "What is the Indie Life?" This is a great question so I'll start here. An "indie author" is one that opts to take control of their writing and publishing by self-publishing. This is a risky, time consuming, and more involved process than most understand YET it is also very rewarding and worth every second of effort.

I spent a couple years developing and revising my book proposal. I submitted to multiple publishers and a couple agencies for representation. I learned a lot about myself, my book, and the writing for publication process as I worked through this necessary step to have a book published in the traditional manner.

There is a part of me who still dreams of having a big publishing house offer me a contract and then the bigger dream, to hear from Hollywood to transform Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey into a movie to raise awareness for the siblings left behind after their brother or sister disappears. I'm still a little girl at heart with big dreams but the grown-up and realist recognizes some things just happen in the movies.

I'm glad I decided to self-publish. This allowed me to release Where's Heidi? on the nineteenth anniversary of my sister's kidnapping. Heidi remains missing today yet our hope is constant. Another reason I chose the
Indie life was to maintain control of my scheduling. As an Indie author I have the freedom to do book signings when and where my schedule allows instead
of following the publisher's timeline. This allows me to continue my weekdays as teacher's assistant, with my evenings and weekends as author and speaker.

The Indie Life isn't designed for wimps or those unwilling to sacrifice a little to reach a goal. If you have a story to tell but desire to maintain control of your schedule, release date, or marketing then take a deep break, pray, and start the path to making your name and platform known to others as the newest Indie author. I have two books out, both available on Amazon.com (direct link on book cover). Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey and When the Waves Subside ~ There is Hope are available as a print book or on Kindle.

Thanks for visiting today - come again! Something new each day...

Do you aspire to be an indie author? What's stopping you?

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T.O.P.'s Tuesday - Missing My Sister...Embracing My Sista's

6/11/2013

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No it isn't Friday!! Okay, some of you are wondering if I've fell off my rocker but I haven't. I'm just relishing the thought of my parents and a few friends cracking up as they read the first couple lines. A few times in the past month I've missed Tuesday. Yes, a day of the week is skipped over like the third chorus of a song.

Sometimes I post later in the week, call it "T.O.P.'s Tuesday" and believe it's Tuesday only to realize it's Wednesday. BUT since the blog is already posted, I let it ride. A couple times I posted a T.O.P.'s Tuesday on Wednesday, with an apology because it was late, but at least it was posted.

An ongoing joke that creates rolling laughter at the kitchen table is the statement, "I'm waiting for you to post T.O.P.'s Tuesday on Friday." and they just laugh. I think the hysteria is because they are half expecting me to do it on accident and the other half, because with my current schedule, they are just counting down the days until I miss the boat completely. Don't think ill of my family and friends, we enjoy a good laugh and my repeated 'missing of Tuesday" has become something to bring much joy.

T.O.P.'s Tuesday was birthed last summer as a weekly check-in for upcoming book news. Recently I've used it to share upcoming book signings, speaking engagements, and television and radio appearances. My hope is to have more television and radio appearances in the future. I'm working on a "Share Where's Heidi? and hope ~ LIVE"

I have a few book ideas running through my head, with two of them in outline form and another transitioning from idea to document. I love meeting people at book signings and sharing a hope, inspiration, and encouragement with others.

The school year winds down in a couple weeks and my full time author, speaker, and writer hats return. We have a couple family escapes planned, Mags is auditioning for the local theater, and our nephew gets married in September. Summer is going to be relaxing yet fun. Busy yet relaxing. A vicious circle of living life to the fullest and enjoying every moment with the those I love the most.

What do you treat like a third chorus of a song? Will you share?

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It's More Than Rain Falling From the Sky

6/10/2013

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I spent the weekend with a few of America's Baptist Women and I'll never be the same. Just kidding, well, partially. There hasn't been a time I've gone away for a women's retreat that I've returned home unchallenged. This weekend was no different. God spoke to me with such love and clarity while at Delta Lake. I shared with the women how much I love time spent at the Delta Lake Bible Conference Center, the main reason being...I always hear God speak to me in black and white.

I know God is speaks to me when I'm home and everywhere I go, so why is Delta Lake any different? Do you have a guess to the reason? It might be different for each of us but I know the reason I personally am more connected. Plain and simple ~ I slow down, listen, listen some more, respond, and listen again. The ride home almost always involves tears ~ of reflection and humble realization (again) of how much God loves me. There is something special about this place, God's presence encompasses you.

About half way home though the tears transition into laughter, and yes this happens when I'm flying solo too. The laughter then moves into a silent, thought provoking, and purposeful mission. The task...to determine how I can apply and put into action all I heard God tell me. The first of which regarded another book. Yesterday afternoon I wrote the introduction for Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey's sequel.

Saturday morning we gathered in the main lodge for a time of devotion. The woman leading the devotional offered a new perspective as it pertains to the rain. This is my summary of her beautiful devotion. Instead of viewing the rain as a hindrance, we should think of it as a shower from heaven.

The Bible refers to Jesus as the Living Water, so why not look at the rain showers as a reminder of how much God loves us. He showers His love, grace, mercy, forgiveness, compassion, provision, and strength daily - sometimes we just feel the moisture.

So let the rains and storms of life come because this girl plans to dance in the rain.

Will you dance in the rain or hide under the umbrella?

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"Oh the Places I'll Go" is more than a Dr. Seuss Book

6/9/2013

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Hello my wonderful friends, family, and followers in the blogosphere! You might think I abandoned you yesterday but know you weren't forgotten, just on hold until today. As the school year winds down in Central New York, it seems my list and the things to be done grows. Lists I look forward to tackling, enjoying, and sharing in the weeks ahead. Summer vacation from school is a mere eight weeks, if that. Once you figure in summer trainings and planning days, it is less.

This year I incorporate book signings, speaking engagements, and prayerfully two writers' conferences. A busy, productive and fun summer ahead. BUT for the next couple weeks, busyness and a lot of change. Change is always a challenge yet I've learned God uses change (especially ones that break our hearts) to grow, strengthen, and mold us into the independent men and women of God He designed us to be, leaning on Him versus the friends, family, and security of jobs and careers we settle our security with.

We were not created or designed to settle for anything. God has big and amazing things in store for each of us when we keep our eyes fixed on Him and seek His direction and path in life.

I spent the past two days with the American Baptist Women as their keynote speaker for their annual June conference. It was held at my favorite escape and get-away ~ the Delta Lake Bible Conference Center.

Their theme this year was "Designed to Serve" and they blessed me with the opportunity to speak on being "Designed to Inspire" and "Designed to Encourage" as fuel for their, no our, serving God. I opened our time together with a confession, "I'm not a Baptist Woman." This brought laughter, smiles, and hearts ready to hear the message God gave me to share with them.

My premise for this weekend's message, "God placed the First Domino" ~ Jesus Christ. We had fun exploring some Scriptures to emphasize God first inspired and encouraged and we are called to share this same encouragement and inspiration with the people we meet in our life. A neon backdrop highlighted the cross we "played" on over the course of the weekend. Can you guess the game we played?

Of course, we played Dominoes. Jesus was the first domino and God initiated the game. The Bible contains verse after verse to help us play this game we call life.

I can't speak for the women in attendance but I know I left inspired, encouraged, and ready to serve God in the capacity He is calling me to. I think the greatest inspiration motivating me on my return home is to start transitioning the notes, drafts, and Bible verses for the sequel to Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey (now available on Kindle) to an editor-ready manuscript.

I drafted the introduction this morning and other ideas are flooding my brain on ways to mold things together. I went to grab my "Sequel" bin off the shelf but couldn't reach it because there is an old mattress and box spring blocking it. I thought about interrupting Ed's day of rest to move these heavy items out of my way but then decided to take this as a sign to wait.

Do you remember I said there is a lot of change before me? Well, instead wasting time moving things out of my way, I plan to cross items off the list that have time constraints. Two weeks ago our church received bittersweet news. Our pastor and his family are moving to pastor the Amherst Alliance Church near Rochester, New York. This is great news for Amherst but devastating news to our small church. On June twenty-third, our pastor preaches his last message in New Haven, New York and within a couple days will pack the last item and leave to start their new journey.

Not only are we losing our pastor, we say "see you later" to dear friends. The beauty of living and worshipping in a small town is we are all part of one family. Change isn't easy, especially when you say good-bye to those you love. The good news is we have an excuse to take a road trip, and a place to stop for lunch while we're there. I don't know when a new pastor will start at our church or even the process but I know he, and his family, will b welcomed with open arms and hearts for the messages God's given him to share with us.

It's never easy to say good-bye yet with the opportunity to travel and to make new friends on the horizon, life is good. Another change in the near future is my building assignment for school. For a decade I've worked at the New Haven Elementary school, with a couple years split between two buildings but my main stay always New Haven. This coming September I'll work with new people, in a new building, and have the opportunity to listen to audio books while driving. I'm going to miss my New Haven family but know they are only a phone call, email, and a stop away if I need them.

Another change is my attitude towards life. The preparation for this weekend's message, "Designed to Serve, Inspire, and Encourage" reminded me of WHO I am and WHAT I'm gifted and designed to do. One of the breakout speakers talked about how sometimes we have a time of pruning in order to grow. I think this past year school year and these summer months are meant to prune me. God reminded me I don't NEED people, I NEED HIM.

The song during this morning's worship cemented this message in my heart and mind. I pray you are blessed by it to. A side note to the women I met this weekend at the retreat, if you have pictures you would like to share, please "tag me" if you post them on Facebook or feel free to email them to me too at lbuskewriter@aol.com. I never thought to ask someone to capture a few pictures with my camera for me. Thank you!

Looking forward to the journey ahead...change is a challenge to build and establish our character! Time to enjoy the ride...

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Will you be joining us for the reading tonight? I hope so!

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What can you celebrate and thank God for today?

Do you aspire to be an indie author? What's stopping you?

What do you treat like a third chorus of a song? Will you share?

Will you dance in the rain or hide under the umbrella?

Looking forward to the journey ahead...change is a challenge to build and establish our character! Time to enjoy the ride...

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A rose is a sign of love...
Who gave you, your first rose?

~ Today we have a social media vine ~
How will you share the One True Vine on the Vine today?

What was your favorite part aspect of last night's online party?
Is there something you didn't get to ask or say?

Everyone's Invited ~ 9 p.m. on the "Where's Heidi?" Facebook Page
See you tonight on the net!

Do you celebrate your loved ones on a daily basis?
Are you waiting for the calendar to remind you?
Cherish each moment...