"Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." (1 Thes. 5:16-18)
Tuesday, November 21, 2023
A SEASON OF THANKFULNESS
I mentioned last month that we’re back in Arizona. The spot we picked this year is perfect, and we love our neighbors. Ray officially returned to his bartending job November 1, and I’ve been promoting my latest book, An Unexpected Christmas Gift.
As I said in my last newsletter, my book released on November 1. The pre-order was a success, selling over 100 copies. YEAH!!! If you’ve bought a copy, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. I adore my loyal fans. And please leave a REVIEW, if you haven’t already.
OTHER WRITING NEWS: If you’re interested to hear about how my last two books came to be. Click on the link to a podcast where I talk to Jennifer Sienes about Rekindled for Christmas Eve and An Unexpected Christmas Gift. It lasts a little over thirty minutes. https://sites.libsyn.com/441480/author-janetta-fudge-messmer
You may wonder why I put the 49ers logo up instead of the Chiefs. I have an interesting story to tell about their quarterback, Brock Purdy. As some of you know, this young man took over as the starting quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers after Jimmy Garoppolo and his backup (Trey Lance) got injured. Because of Brock’s draft pick (261 players were picked before him), he was called “Mr. Irrelevant.” But as the saying goes, “Never underestimate anyone.” He stepped into the quarterback job and took the 49ers to one win away from going to the Super Bowl this past February.
Unfortunately, Brock got hurt, and the 49ers lost the game – but his story continues. He has returned from his injury (earlier than expected) and is an inspiration to everyone. What I love is that his parents are at the games, rooting him on. Joy is written on their faces.
A few weeks ago, I must have paid extra attention to the announcers when I heard that Brock’s parents own a hot tub place in Mesa, Arizona. Well, isn’t that interesting? We’re in Mesa in the winter. What would be the chances we’d ever meet Brock’s dad in such a large area?
It happened!
We rounded the corner at the flea market, and there was a hot tub place. I said to Ray, “I wonder if that’s Brock Purdy’s parents’ place?” Then, I spotted a mug on the counter. IT HAD A 49er STICKER ON IT. Being the shy person I am, I stated, “I’m going over to talk to him. He looks like the guy on the jumbotron.”
And I did. We shook hands, and I told him I loved his son and thought he was a fantastic quarterback. His dad smiled and said, “Brock always wanted to be a quarterback in the NFL from when he was a little boy.” I told him to tell him that I was a huge fan.
We talked for a few more minutes, then I walked back and met up with Ray and our friends. I’m glad I was brave enough to step out of my comfort zone. Sometimes it’s worth it. You never know how much it may brighten someone’s (and your own) day.
Happy Thanksgiving to everyone. It is truly a season of thankfulness. I hope your coming days are filled with a generous helping of your favorite fare and a grateful heart. We are truly blessed. Love you all!!!
Until next time…
Janetta Fudge Messmer- Author of Christian Comedy/Romances
