Blog Archives - ONE SISTER'S JOURNEY KEEPING IT REAL

Do you know who sings over you?

9/30/2012

The Lord your God is with you,
    the Mighty Warrior who saves.
He will take great delight in you;
    in his love he will no longer rebuke you,
    but will rejoice over you with singing.”

Zephaniah 3:17 NIV

Happy Sunday everyone!

Take a moment to listen to this song. A powerful way to worship God on this last day of September.

Enjoy your Sabbath with your family!

Two Authors, Two Sets of Sisters, Two different endings

9/29/2012

This summer I met Karen Beaudin as she traveled through New York on her way home. The weather resembled something from the opening in the The Wizard of Oz but she persevered and arrived safely.

We enjoy dinner, prayer, laughter, and much conversation. Karen and I have something in common, both are sisters were kidnapped. The endings are different though. My sister, Heidi Allen remains missing while Karen's sister, Kathy was found brutally murdered. Two sets of sisters sharing the bond of kidnapping and the hope of seeing our beloved sisters again in heaven.

After Heidi's disappearance I searched for a book written to encourage, inspire, heal, and uplift the sister's heart. I found books written for the parents of a missing child or the child of a missing adult (which these are still too few), and some for the grandparents but the sibling had yet to be written.

Please don't misunderstand, I found a few books written for a sister but they were of anger, hate, and rage. I didn't need to be filled with more negative emotions. I needed to know I wasn't alone. I needed to know I was loved. I needed to know there was hope.

In 2010 I researched more intensely for books written by other sisters of the missing. I only found a few. Two stand out, a booklet written and developed by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) and a book written by my (now) friend, Karen Beaudin. I read Karen's book over a weekend and cried to know someone else understood. Sisters have a common bond, one only a sister could explain or understand.

NCMEC's booklet, What About Me? and Karen Beaudin's book, A Child is Missing are valuable resources for the sibling left behind after the kidnapping of their brother or sister. I am pleased to know my first book, Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey will be another resource to the hurting, grieving, and struggling sibling searching for something to believe in, to trust, and to hope for as they continue their search for their lost brother or sister. The sibling's who have buried their found sibling struggle daily and need to the same things. The siblings reunited with a lost sibling also require the same knowledge.

We all need to know we are not alone and that someone cares. God cares and loves each of us. Thank goodness.

Two sisters with a common bond finally meet. Laughter, tears, and prayer filled our evening together. Words on paper share our stories with all of you.

To learn more about Karen's book, visit her website at: (you may also click on any of the photographs with her book cover on it for a direct link)
http://www.karenbeaudin.com/

To learn more about my book, visit my "Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey" page on this website or click on the photo of my book cover for a direct link.

To access a free download of of NCMEC's "What About me?" copy and paste the below link or click on the photo of my sister, Heidi M Allen in the bottom right for a direct link.
http://www.missingkids.com/missingkids/servlet/ResourceServlet?LanguageCountry=en_US&PageId=3462

Thank you everyone! How do you see these types of publications benefiting you personally?

Do you like to wait?

9/27/2012

I imagine your response was "No", as most people in today's society do not enjoy waiting. If you don't believe me, count the number of fast food restaurants and ATM machines in your town, city block, or village.

Within a twenty minute drive from our house, there are probably more than two dozen different fast food restaurants or coffee shops we could drive through for a quick dinner.

Okay, I am digressing. The point of such an introduction is merely to prove how much society thrives on instant access and fulfillment.

The first hours of Heidi's disappearance were terrible. In 2006, I met other families of missing children. I listened as one woman said she had been searching for over ten years for her child. I remember thinking "I don't have the stamina to wait and search for a decade." Of course I was correct, I couldn't do it. Not on my own anyway.

Funny though it was the ten year mark I didn't think I could make it to and it was at the ten year mark when God touched my heart and wrapped His arms around me with His love and strength to wait.

The Bible doesn't call us to give up and throw in the towel but instead to "wait" and be blessed. What are you waiting for?

A mid-week reflection

9/26/2012

Can you believe it is Wednesday already? I can't.

As we move forward in anticipation of Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey's release in April 2013, I am reminded daily to be thankful. There have been many people who have helped to make this dream a reality. There have been many "God-instances" since 2006 when I wrote the first draft until today. I have met so many wonderful people ~ fellow writers and authors, speakers, editors, publishers, journalists, women, and sisters-in-Christ.

It has been an amazing journey and I look forward to the days and months. I could not do this alone. Of course I have an amazing, loving, and supportive family on my team with God leading the way. We are enjoying the planning, preparation, and the entire publishing process together. I could not ask for a better team to work with than my family and friends.

Can you think of at least one amazing thing happening in your life right now?

Next, can you remember back to when this amazing thing was merely an idea or notion?

How did you feel when you realized this was something you were going to do and/or were called to do?

As you reflect, what are some things you are thankful for in the process as this amazing thing transitioned from notion to reality?

Will you share your amazing thing? How you felt when you first realized you were to be doing this? Or a few of the things you are thankful for from then to now?

I look forward to hearing how God has blessed you and your life!

T.0.P.'s Tuesday: "Service With A Smile"

9/25/2012

Welcome back to another T.O.P.'s Tuesday. I had a suggestion from a new blog follower last week to explain where the "T.O.P.'s Tuesday" came from. Great idea!

Welcome to our first weekly blog posting, T.O.P.'s Tuesday to inform you of updates about the release of Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey. My family and I are so blessed by your support, prayers, and encouragement since we announced my first book will be released in April 2013. Thank you.

T.0.P.'s Tuesday and will provide you with information relating to the release of Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey. It might be an upcoming speaking engagement, the cover, an excerpt, or bizarre tidbits about the publishing process you may not be aware of.

Why is is called T.O.P.'s Tuesday? Great question! Heidi played volleyball for the Bishop Cunningham Jr./Sr. High School until it closed in 1992. On February 14th, 1992 the Palladium Times (an Oswego, New York newspaper) named my sister, Heidi M. Allen athlete of the week. This was exciting and we were all proud of her but it was the name they gave her that stirred the most attention, "Tower of Power".

Each Tuesday we will remember Heidi, Bishop Cunningham's "Tower of Power" (T.O.P.) as we move forward in this publishing journey. God is the ultimate Tower of Power for us all but Heidi was her friend's T.O.P. on the court.

In honor of Heidi - Let the T.O.P.'s Tuesday's begin.

News to report:
* I am busy at work making suggested changes and modifications, along with some others I noticed as I read through on my own.

* This past weekend's presentation with the North Eastern District's Alliance Women at their annual Fall Refocus was amazing and the stories and hugs following my time of sharing encouraged and inspired me. Thank you ladies!

*I continue to pray and prepare to deliver the Sunday morning message at Meridian Baptist this coming weekend. Thanks again to Larry at Tughill Antiques (County Route 6, New Haven, NY) I have the visual aids I was looking for.

* Posted a challenge on Facebook for 1,000 "likes" by the end of September in honor of Heidi's birthday this month. Less than twenty-one to go. You are amazing!

*Once the edits are done, moving on to the next step in the publication process, unless I send it to the editor one more time.

Is there something you would like to know, learn, or ask for one of our T.O.P.'s Tuesday blogs? Feel free to ask below or email me at lbuskewriter@aol.com. I look forward to hearing from you.

Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written:
‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’ ”

Matthew 4:10

What are you waiting for?

9/24/2012

“So do not throw away this confident trust in the Lord. Remember the great reward it brings you!
Patient endurance is what you need now,
so that you will continue to do God’s will.
Then you will receive all that he has promised.”
Hebrews 10:35-36 NLT

We all have times in our life when we need "patient endurance".
Is there a time in your life your when you found yourself saying aloud, " I can't do or handle one more thing Lord."

I know I have. The Bible tells us though, God won't give us more than we can handle. Before you start throwing tomatoes at the computer screen or poking me on Facebook, here me out.

The Bible doesn't lie yet at times we each reach a point when all we want to do is throw in the towel. Sometimes this can be the most important moment in the midst of the trouble and darkness we are in. It is (sometimes) only at this point that we call out to God.

He won't give us more than we can handle when we are leaning on HIM for support instead the various crutches we pick up.

If you are still in the darkness and feeling overwhelmed, call out to Jesus to help you through it. If you have already been through a time and remember the relief and sweet sleep you were blessed with after giving it to God, will you share?

You never know when your story might be the encouragement and hope another needs. Have a great week everyone!

A picture is worth twenty minutes

9/23/2012

As you know from yesterday's blog, this weekend's speaking event went well. God provided the words and Scriptures I prayed for that would share Heidi, my story, and hope with the ladies in attendance. I pray they were as blessed as I am.

The stories, hugs, and words expressed following my presentation and throughout the rest of the day filled my heart with hope, sadness, and thanks all at the same time.

I shared from my heart and prayed to touch others with a hurt. I'm thankful to have met so many wonderful ladies this weekend. I pray the words shared by all the speakers touched their hearts. The various speakers each shared with such passion and concluded with a challenge. Not only did I speak, I listened. A great mixture for success, health, and healing.

I sifted through the folders of photographs on my computer for today's blog. When I saw this one I said aloud, "Yes! This is it!" Ed laughed and asked "What's it?" The photo doesn't really have anything to do with today's blog but then it does.

This Sunday, September 30, I will be sharing with the Meridian Baptist Church in Meridian, New York during their morning worship service. They provided the morning Scripture reading and left the rest up to me and God. I have prayed on it and look forward to this week's preparation and finalizing of the message. I had my general direction but when I saw this photo, the "A-ha" hit me. I love how God works.

I wonder if Mom and Dad will let me borrow their fountain? Hmm...

If you were in attendance at this weekend's N.E. District's Alliance Women's Fall Refocus, would you like to share an aspect of the weekend that stood out to you? A speaker? A quote? A challenge? A thought? A motivation to do....?

Fall Refocus...a success

9/22/2012

We have all arrived safely home from the annual "Fall Refocus" with the women of the Northeastern District's Alliance Women at the Delta Lake Bible Conference Center. We laughed, cried, learned, were inspired, motivated, and came home with much to think about. Many of the speakers challenged us to do and be the best woman of God we can be.

One of the speakers was yours truly. I spoke on being a "Light in the Midst of Darkness" after the kidnapping of my only sister, Heidi Allen. I had months to prepare and then changed my initial plan a couple weeks ago after much prayer. God knew what He was doing with the new presentation.

I met a lot of wonderful people and learned oodles. My mind and heart are exhausted. Going to spend some time with my family and to bed early so I don't look like a zombie in church tomorrow morning.

Have a great night everyone! More tomorrow.

A special thanks to the Alliance Women executive team and leaders for another AMAZING women's retreat weekend.
(Bottom photos taken by Diane Estrella, thanks Diane!)

TGIF...Retreating to Refocus

9/21/2012

As you approach the weekend I encourage you to slow down and take a break. We all need one. With a busy few weeks behind me I am attending a two-day retreat with some of the ladies and teens from church. My daughter is joining the fall fun for the first time, yeah.

In addition to a time of rest and refocusing, I will be sharing my story as part of the conference on Saturday morning. If you think of me, would you pray for me to share my story and have people leave talking about God and not about me.

After a fabulous day of work, nothing but laughter, fun, and fellowship with my girlfriends as we escape to the lake to be refreshed and refocused with the other ladies of the Alliance.

Have a great Friday everyone!

Tomorrow's blog will be posted in the evening.

Today's top photo makes me smile. My Gram and Aunt Nancy had a huge blackboard in the kitchen. It was used to leave notes to each other, develop lists, and of course to play school or whatever else us kids could think of. I love the wig on top of my head the best.
So as I speak this weekend, today's blog photo is a reminder that God knew where I would be today or he wouldn't have had me giving speeches in Gram's kitchen. teehee

A Book Review: Hanging On by the Scratch Marks My Nails Left Behind (Raw Faith)

9/20/2012

About the Author:
Elizabeth Chalker is still in the furnace of lifes' calamities and fighting the good fight of faith and endurance, keeping her eyes on the prize of heaven. Before serious, physical illness devastated her body, Elizabeth was on the fast track as a successful psychologist and addictions specialist, working with violent juvenile offenders and their families, near completion of her third graduate degree. Her life is a testimony of faith that is steadfast and remains no matter the seemingly dark, unjust, and treacherous circumstances of life. She resides in Lighthouse Point, Florida. Elizabeth continues to minister to those in need and aspires to show God's glory through every breath she takes.

About the book:
"This is no ordinary book about personal loss, crisis, physical illness, and shattered ambitions. The message here runs much deeper. What I discovered— being mirrored back to me—were my own responses to life’s disappointments. Somewhere, Elizabeth disappeared and I saw myself struggling with personal issues that needed fixing. Many were issues I did not know were there. At that point, I realized the book had a “surface” message and a deeper, heart message. As you read, allow the book to read you. Let Elizabeth’s cries of the heart and spirit uncover what is sequestered in your own heart. Let Elizabeth’s words lead you on a journey beyond her illness and life tragedies to its conclusion— where you will emerge challenged and even strangely comforted by your own life struggles, knowing that you too can have access to this pure faith, realize the bigger purpose for your life, and “come forth as gold!" Pastor Charles

My Review: Elizabeth's book is powerful and will tear at your heart. She writes with raw, intense, and heart breaking honest emotion. I found myself having to stop and pray. I prayed for Elizabeth's health then thanked God for my own health. After the intense and honest sharing, Elizabeth's calm, hopeful, and compassion shine through. I found this to be an emotional roller coaster of life's ups and downs with Elizabeth's strong and devoted faith in God as her only strength.

"Though I have a limited view and lack severely even beginning to understand His ways; though my circumstances are seemingly pitch black with not even so much as a pin dot of light shining through as a result of the depths of travesty of circumstance; God's promises, His enduring/abiding love, His Word, His sovereignty, His faithfulness and mercy; more unfeigned and constant than the utter-hell-impact of the diseases, and all that goes along with them, affecting every area of my being and my life as a whole." Elizabeth Chalker

It is this type of faith and heart tugging that will keep you reading.

"In the fire I remain. He's here. Even when I do not trust Him, see Him, feel Him, or hear Him. Even when I do not like Him and cannot accept what He allows -- He abides with me still. He is with you in your fire. He is Love, therefore must exude love. Thereto, He does love us, all of us, all of the time. Even when we step out on our own, get ahead of Him, or do what we "feel" is best, He is here still. Like with Abraham, God will keep His promises to us. Moreover, no matter what mistakes we make or how unfaithful to Him we may be, He is faithful still. He has no choice if we are His." Elizabeth Chalker

I commend you Elizabeth. Your courage, willingness, and outlook are inspiring. May others seek the Lord like you and trust Him with all things. I pray this book brought healing to you and to others who before reading this book might have thought they were alone.

To Visit Elizabeth's site:www.helpelizabeth.net (or click on her picture above)

To visit Elizabeth's book website:
www.elizabethchalker.org (or click on the book cover above)

On Twitter: http://twitter.com/@purplebu77terfly

To purchase the book - click on her book jacket photo

To Read other blog reviews of this book:
WEEK ONE SEPT 10- 14, 2012

Monday, Sept, 10
Written Voices Blog
http://writtenvoicesblog.com/

Monday, Sept 10
Empowered to Prosper
http://www.pauletteharper.blogspot.com/

Tuesday, Sept 11
All That Buzz Reviews
http://allthebuzzreviews.com

Tuesday, Sept 11
Yvonne Wright Blog
http://www.spicetoeternity.co.uk/guests.html

Wednesday, Sept 12
Thought Provoking Perspective
http://thoughtprovokingperspectives.wordpress.com/

Wednesday, Sept 12
Writers and Authors Blogspot
http://writersandauthors.blogspot.com/

Wednesday, Sept 12
HeartFeltDevotionals
http://heartfeltdevotionals.com/

Friday, Sept 14
Mission Possible Blog
http://www.godmissionpossible.blogspot.com/

Friday, Sept 14
Authors & Readers Book Corner
Blog: http://www.arbookcorner.com/

WEEK TWO SEPT 17-21,2012

Monday, Sept 17
Sinde Reading Blogspot
http://sidnereading.blogspot.com

Tuesday, Sept 18
The Literary Lady
http://lwtheauthorshideaway.blogspot.com

Tuesday, Sept 18
Holly Michaels Writing Straight Blog
http://writingstraight.com/

Wednesday, Sept 19
Fashion Passion Faith
http://fashionpassionfaith.blogspot.com

Wednesday, Sept 19
The Back Road
www.charread09.wordpress

Thursday Sept 20
Lisa Writes Blog
http://lisabuske.weebly.com/blog.html

Friday, Sept 21
Books for Book Lovers
http://kimpayne.wordpress.com/

Friday, Sept 21
Nita Bee’s Buzzing Web Blog
http://nitabee.com

"Where's Heidi?" has its first debut

9/20/2012

A friend, fellow blogger, and writer has shared Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey with her readers today on her blog. To read the interview and a few words from Diane, click on either photo or copy and paste the below link.
http://dianeestrella.com/wheres-heidi-one-sisters-journey-by-lisa-m-buske/

"Where’s Heidi? One Sister’s Journey is written by a sister for other siblings grieving the loss of their brother or sister. If you have lost your sibling, your journey will have similarities to mine yet because we are both individuals, our stories are different.

The journey without Heidi started on April 3, 1994. The journey to write this book started in September 2006. Six years later, there is only one way to go. FORWARD!

You can follow Lisa on her journey here: her blog, with Facebook, or on Twitter."

A special thanks to Diane Estrella over at "That's What I Am Here For" for sharing my first book with her readers. In addition to Diane's fabulous and informative blog, Diane writes for children.

Typical woman, she is doing it all!

More than a rainbow...it is a reminder

9/19/2012

Hello everyone! The rush from last week's press conference and the reveal of the book cover have settled down yet the list continues to grow. God is amazing and blessing me with more speaking engagements, emails, posts, comments, notes, and love than one woman deserves. Yet in spite of all this, my human side has run amuck and is trying to push the hope, thankfulness, praise, and appreciation of His blessings to the side.

I listened to a teaching yesterday morning and the next part of it this morning as I got ready for school. I stopped mid curl and listened as the teacher shared "When God has good things planned for you, when He plans to use you to grow His Kingdom, or is calling you to step out for His glory. Satan will step in and do his best to distract us from God's plan." She (I think it was Joyce Meyer but I am not sure) then listed a few Scripture verses which I mindlessly did NOT write down. (UGH!)

I am not trying to be "all that and a bag of chips" or anything like that but simply want others to understand life isn't always a bed of roses, just because God is in your life and you trust yours to Him. It means that when the ick and ughs of life come at you, there is Someone strong, willing, loving, and all-knowing ready and willing to help you through it.

So as I move forward with Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey and the publication process, speaking to share my testimony, and working full-time to help pay the bills ~ I will trust Him. What does any of this have to do with the rainbow? Yesterday was a DIFFICULT day at work. I questioned myself, why I do what I do, and if it was worth it to continue. This morning I awoke with the same sadness, anger, and frustration heavy on my heart.

As the clock ticked and I calculated what time I would need to leave in order to arrive on time after a visit with my Dad over coffee before going to school. THEN the phone rang, it was my Dad. "Lisa, there are two rainbows. When are you coming down?" I could have cried. I felt so beaten and defeated but to hear my Daddy call to say God painted a double rainbow in the sky for me this morning was the hope, strength, and reminder I needed.

I wish I could tell you I arrived at work with an all new attitude and joy in my heart but I didn't. The thought of the rainbow and the promises in Scripture eased my heart as I meditated on them each time satan attempted to magnify my frustration. It is all in God's hands and what is meant to be will be. I need only to my job and trust HE sees the bigger picture. I am merely one tiny part of this earth and instead of dwelling on the things that are wrong, I need to focus on the positive and Who is in control.

It isn't me and never will be. Thank goodness!

Have you ever had a day or few days that seemed to run you over like a Mack truck? What turned your attitude around? What does the rainbow represent to you?

I hope you will share with us below in a comment.

And God said, “I will give you something to prove that I made this promise to you. It will continue forever to show that I have made an agreement with you and every living thing on earth. I am putting a rainbow in the clouds as proof of the agreement between me and the earth. When I bring clouds over the earth, you will see the rainbow in the clouds. When I see this rainbow, I will remember the agreement between me and you and every living thing on the earth. This agreement says that a flood will never again destroy all life on the earth. When I look and see the rainbow in the clouds, I will remember the agreement that continues forever. I will remember the agreement between me and every living thing on the earth.”

So God said to Noah, “This rainbow is proof of the agreement that I made with all living things on earth.”
Genesis 9:12 - 17 ERV

T.0.P.'s Tuesday: Different schools, still friends

9/18/2012

Heidi and I are both Bishop Cunningham Crusaders and Mexico Tigers. As Mags and I browsed the microfilm we found this great article that talked about both schools.

It talks about some of her best friends from both our home district, Mexico, and our Alma Mater, Bishop Cunningham.

This blog is dedicated to all of Heidi's friends and fellow volley ball team mates ~ in both Mexico and B.C.

News to report:
* I received my second read through back from the editor so I am busy at work making her suggested changes and modifications, along with some others I noticed as I read through.

* My first press conference this past Friday was a success. The cover was unveiled in with family, friends, and our wonderful community there. It was a blessed day to say the least.

* Practicing my presentation for this weekend's presentation with the North Eastern District's Alliance Women at their annual Fall Refocus.

*The event in Meridian is coming together and thanks to Larry at Tughill Antiques (County Route 6, New Haven, NY) I have the visual aids I was looking for. Thanks Larry!

* Posted a challenge on Facebook for 1,000 "likes" by the end of September in honor of Heidi's birthday this month. Less than two-hundred to go. You are amazing!

*Once the edits are done, moving on to the next step in the publication process, unless I send it to the editor one more time.

Palladium Times articles used with their permission.
Written by Mike LeBouef and Frank Direnna
Published November 29, 1991

How do you feel today?

9/17/2012

It has been a very busy couple of weeks with the start of a new school year and preparations for my first press conference to reveal my first book's cover. Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey is scheduled for an April 3, 2013 release.

This is exciting but Friday's press conference was a reminder for everyone, Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey is more than a book. It is a mission, passion, and evidence of both God's working in my life and the impact our wonderful community.

I wanted to take a moment today to say thank you. Thanks to each person who has helped, prayed, reached out, or thought of Heidi and her family over the past eighteen plus years. Thank you to those who have (and continue to) help, pray, reach out, encourage, and support me, personally, as I stretch my wings to write and speak. Thank you to each of you reading this blog, following the "Where's Heidi? book page" on Facebook, and for your time.

Have a great week everyone! It was busy and emotional for the family leading up to and following the press conference and the cover reveal. We knew what the cover looked like and what it stands for but we were still overwhelmed with emotion.

Did the cover and/or the press conference touch you or trigger emotions within your heart? Would you share with us?

Worry weighs a person down;
an encouraging word cheers a person up.

Proverbs 12:25

A little spice...

9/16/2012

The conversation I am going to share with you takes me back to my wedding day. If you have been married or are planning to be married then you understand the effort and stress that can go into finding the "perfect" photographer. When Ed and I were planning for our wedding we decided it would be a fun day and no stress so the first photographer recommended was it and he did a fabulous job BUT our favorite pictures were not the ones taken by him.

Our favorite shots that captured Ed and I in our most relaxed and natural fashion were those of family and friends as they snapped without our knowledge. What does this have to do with this weekend's big cover reveal? A lot. Over nineteen years ago when I was married and still today, if I am hosting a celebration I want everyone to have fun and enjoy themselves and I want to do the same. Our best photos were the ones we didn't realize were happening. My favorite conversation from Friday is one that no one could have orchestrated. I loved it. My family laughed so hard I thought I might have to call Mary Poppins with her magic to stop them and return their feet to the floor.

Mom, Dad, Ed, Mary, and I were determined to have the cover reveal for my first book, Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey a fun and festive event. Anyone can hold a press conference but we wanted it to be more. It was about remembering Heidi on her birthday, celebrating something good happening in our lives, and sharing it with our friends. So it wasn't your average press conference and we think everyone there had fun.

I hope you enjoy the conversation below as much as my best (and oldest) friend in the entire world did after the press conference. I have since learned who it was that had this conversation and they are okay with me using it on the blog.

Enjoy your Sunday everyone! A day of rest. One I really need.

A friend sent me this via a Facebook message Friday evening.

"Overheard at your press conf. today.... made me smile...
Guy: That's what I love about Lisa. She adds spice to life!
Gal: Yeah....she's the allspice!
Guy: Nah....she's the Montreal Steak seasoning.... you never know what flavor you're going to get!
lol.... so true"

God made me the "Montreal Steak seasoning" so I will embrace it.

For you created my inmost being;
    you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
    your works are wonderful,
    I know that full well.

Psalm 139:13-14

"Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey" Four themes illustrated in the cover

9/15/2012

Someone said, “I know it has Heidi’s picture on it, but which one?”

Heidi’s photograph is not on the cover of the book. Not because we don’t love and miss her each day of our lives but instead so that others will be able to relate in a more personal way to my book

As I prayed about the cover, common themes kept repeating themselves.

I want the cover to reflect:
*Community
*Hope
*Remembrance
*God’s working in my life

I believe this cover illustrates all four.

Community: this “remembrance garden” is here because our community is a family and when the going gets tough, we pull together, what better way to thank and illustrate a sense of community than with the very garden you all helped to build

Hope: The focal point of the cover is the white and pink rose. This rose bloomed on April 3rd this year, on the 18th anniversary of Heidi’s disappearance a "bleeding heart" rose bloomed in CNY. Heidi was 18 when she disappeared and has been missing the same number of years, making this past anniversary the most difficult yet for me until I saw this rose. A reminder from God, He was right there with me and not to give up.

Remembrance: The garden ties into the “remembrance” piece yet the store building in the background is a constant reminder of Heidi’s kidnapping and disappearance. I will never forget my sister and neither will this community. This building represents the day our town changed, rallied, and united. Doors are locked, bonds are tighter, and none of you have forgotten.

God’s working in my life: I want to be complete honest with you. When this garden was first built I didn’t appreciate its importance and fear I may have reflected this in my attitude. I apologize to any I may have offended or feelings I hurt. Thank you for this wonderful garden. There are days I drive past just for the reminder ~ Heidi is never forgotten and the love of this community. Transformation in God’s time. I didn’t see it then but I do now. There have been many things I took for granted or glanced over in the past that God has shown me to be blessings in disguise when I look back. I am a work in process, waiting to bloom to my full potential too.

"Instead of viewing this as a place of tragedy, let the store fade into the background and focus on the hope in front of you. Only God could bloom a rose on the very day, 18 years prior, that it snowed."
Lisa M. Buske, Author of Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey

Some of the media coverage from yesterday's press conference are posted on my "Media" page on this website. You will have to click on the "More" button (located at the top right) and then select "Media" from the drop down box.

You can also copy and paste the below link into a new window.
http://www.lisambuske.com/media-coverage.html

"Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey" COVER REVEALED

9/14/2012

Photo taken April 3, 2012. Used with permission from property owner.

My book opens with a phone call. The answering machine picks up and records my aunt’s voice as she utters words I’ll never forget, “Heidi is missing!” The beginning of the book focuses on the first minutes, hours, and days following that ominous phone call. A flashback to the last evening we spent together introduces the reader to the cheerful and optimistic eighteen year old before she is ripped from our lives. April 3, 2013 will mark the 19th anniversary of my sister’s kidnapping with the same three words still reigning true today…Heidi is missing.

It took me years to realize Heidi was forever gone. It took me years to realize I was not alone, and only through expressing my feelings would I begin to heal. where’s Heidi? The search begins is written to release the brother or sister trapped within themselves “going through the motions” of life from unneeded years of pain and loneliness.

This is my story...to be released tentatively on April 3rd, 2013

We pray you like the cover.

I took this picture on April 3rd, 2012. Only God could bloom roses on an April day in Upstate New York. I shared this with the store manager when I obtained permission from the property owner and he said, "My mom's bleeding heart bloomed this April too." God is good. A bleeding heart and a rose of hope for Heidi.

Does it bring about emotions, memories,
or a thought you would like to share?

It is REVEAL day! Blog 1 of 2 today

9/13/2012

My heart was torn this morning as I look forward to this afternoon's 4:30 p.m. press conference at the very intersection Heidi disappeared from over eighteen years ago. Why is my heart torn you might ask. Let me tell you. We have been looking forward to sharing the cover will all of you since early August. The anticipation is sweet.

Originally the cover was to be revealed at 12:01 a.m. but then the press conference was scheduled so we could share it with some of you in person. I know many of you can't be there yet as a thank you to our community and each of you, a public reveal was scheduled so I can't post a picture of the cover until after the press conference.

BUT I can't wait until after 6 p.m., if not 7 p.m. EST to touch base with all of you. Please know you are all in our thoughts and if I am home earlier, BIG REVEAL will be posted sooner.

Thank you for your encouragement, prayers, and love!

As if today was not exciting enough, my wonderful editor returned my manuscript to me. I can't wait to get to work on it. I did do some already, I couldn't help myself but it had to move lower on the list until after tomorrow's birthday celebration for Heidi and the book cover reveal. So much fun...April seems so far away yet I know it will be here before I know it.

Remember - this is 1 of 2 blogs today!

Today's second blog revealing the cover on the blog will be posted after this afternoon's press conference, most likely after 6 p.m. EST.
Thank you everyone!

Guess what is under the cover? It is the cover!

9/13/2012

I can't even begin to tell you how excited we are for tomorrow's big cover reveal of Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey.

Balloons, a table to leave a note for the family, cupcakes, and possibly a video will greet you as you arrive to the Heidi Allen Remembrance Garden on Friday (9/14) afternoon.

Press Conference starts at 4:30 p.m.

A time of fellowship and refreshments to follow.

After Dad and I finish placing the blue and pink material over the banner of my cover, we realize body guards might be needed to keep the cover secure until the reveal tomorrow afternoon.

The material colors chosen are in honor of all cyclist for the Ride for Missing children. If you are in the Mexico area, watch for them. They are doing a training ride in our neck of the woods.

A birthday gift to Heidi if you ask me. :)

No
peeking Mom!

Or
you
Mags!

Teamwork...

Dad built the stand.

Mom found the material
and made the bow.

Mags snapped pictures
of the process.

Ed ran the errands and narrowed down my to-do-list so I could get right to work when I got home.

And me...
I stood to hold the material in place while it was tacked and thought "Oh my gosh, this is real!"

A community gathering and time of celebration.
A beautiful way to spend my sister's birthday this Friday.
I hope you will join us.

Finally HUMP DAY

9/12/2012

This week's "hump day" is full of excitement and anticipation. Since Heidi's disappearance the days leading up to Heidi's birthday have created sadness and left me missing her beyond words. This year has been different. Of course I still miss my sister and think of her yet the overall tone and outlook is far more positive and hopeful.

A friend shared of an upcoming visit to the "Cackleberry Pumpkin Farm", memories flooded my brain and ached my heart. This fabulous place was an annual tradition in our family, so much so that even as teenagers Heidi and I went on our own. The last time we went together, Heidi's friend Tracy joined us. Many goofy pics from there. Maybe I'll blog about that in October.

Two days behind and two in front of us for this week. Today is traditionally known as hump day because we are in the middle of the work week. I wonder if there could be something called "hump month" or "hump year" or "hump journey"?

Stay with me for a moment. The purpose of the "hump day" analogy is usually brought up when the first two days have been a challenge. A reminder something better is yet to come.

Hump day might also represent the midway point to an exciting event on the weekend. Like a book cover reveal celebration and press conference at the Heidi Allen Remembrance Garden (Intersection of Route 104 and 104b in New Haven, New York) on Friday at 4:30 p.m., for instance. Or whatever exciting event you might have like a birthday. Heidi would have celebrated her 37th birthday this Friday but instead we will remember her as we reveal the book cover. Heidi is never forgotten!

Back to my "hump month, year, and journey" theory. If we look at our current struggles, trials, or stressors as a "hump" in life, do you think it would change our outlook? If you are have a difficult start to a month, declare the middle as your "hump month" and make a change in your attitude.

We can't change our circumstances all the time (sometimes we can, so if you can ~ just do it) but there might still be a need for a change. A change in attitude. If you grumble, your "hump" might become years of unnecessary pain and suffering.

What if you had a positive and hopeful attitude about your current situation? How do you think it would change tomorrow's outlook? What do you have going on in your life that you are declaring a "hump day" for? A change of attitude can take us a long way.

p.s. This is directed to me too. I need to practice what I write. lol

Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.

Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life. And then I will be able to boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain. But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. So you too should be glad and rejoice with me.
Philippians 2:12 - 18