nettie-fudges-world

Tuesday, January 24, 2023

WHY DID I EVER WORRY?
(CLASS NEWS AND THE CHIEFS)

Brrrzy may not be in the dictionary, but I’m using it here. And this next sentence will sound like I’m whining, so excuse me for a moment. Yes, it’s January, but who knew that the lower part of Arizona received such nippy temperatures?

Okay, I’m done because I know that many of you are seeing single-digit temps and minus temperatures. So, I’ll be praying for you to make it through the colder-than-normal January.

WRITING NEWS:

Last month I told you I would share how my first Creative Writing class went. I won’t bore you with all the details, but it was a HUGE success. Why did I ever worry?

Ray (my helper and hubby) came to help me set up and see the classroom then he left. Soon my students filed in. Carrie, the Class Coordinator, joined us and introduced me to everyone. I’ll be honest with you, I was shaking in my boots, but it didn’t take me long to relax and enjoy the journey.

And with anything I do, there has to be a funny in the mix. This one involved a fainty-feeling sensation. Before you get concerned, I didn’t fall on my face in front of twenty-seven people, but I did take a seat and finished the lesson I’d prepared.

While seated, I also asked the class what everyone was interested in. Most of the students said: Memoirs. One gentleman, though, cracked us up when he said, “I’ve already tried pickleball and card games. I came to this class because it sounded interesting.”

After the laughter died down, I thanked him for his honesty. And I told him that I hoped he’d return to figure out what he wanted to write about. The class ended, and my assistant handed out the lesson I’d prepared. I also gave them their homework for the following week.

As they left, I thanked everyone for coming. One lady on her way out the door said, “I’m going to the office right now to get tickets for your next class.” My response was a resounding, “WOOHOO!!!”

I have my next class this coming Friday. I’ll guarantee I’ll have some nerves going on, but with one under my belt – I’ll settle in and do the best job I can do in teaching the attendees about creative writing.

OTHER NEWS:

The Kansas City Chiefs won on Sunday and will face the Cincinnati Bengals next week in the playoffs. But let’s not forget to continue praying for Damar Hamlin with the Buffalo Bills. What happened to him on Monday night should wake us up as to how quickly life can change. Yes, life is precious.

A CHANCE AT A FREE BOOK:

And if you’re interested, the homework assignment I gave my class, it was: “Write about a trip to the mountains, lake, or national park.” If you send me the story you wrote, I’ll enter you into a drawing for a free e-book of Rekindled for Christmas Eve. I’ll pick three winners.

PS: This week, I read Jason Feifer’s newsletter: How Do You Stay Relevant? Steal this tactic from one of the world’s strongest brands. He mentioned, “Taco Bell just nabbed #1in Entrepreneur’s annual Franchise 500, our definitive ranking of the strongest franchise brands. It’s their third consecutive time at the top spot, which only two other brands have ever achieved.”

You know I love Taco Bell!!!

Until next time…

Blessings!

Janetta Fudge Messmer - Author of Christian Comedy/Romances
“Turning Life Into Comedy”
E-mail: janettafudgemessmer@gmail.com
Website and sign up for the newsletter: http://janettafudgemessmer.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/janetta.fudge.messmer
Twitter: https://twitter.com/nettiefudge

Wednesday, December 21, 2022

A CHRISTMAS SURPRISE
(And a book review for the ages!)

You might remember that I received a keyboard for Christmas last year. I played on it for three or four months, but one day the sound coming from it was more of a gurgling noise than music filling the air.

So much for buying a musical instrument at a thrift store. Guess someone failed to disclose that it wasn’t in tip-top shape when they donated it. So, we pitched it, and I put my songbooks away in my closet.

That’s until a week ago when I received an early Christmas present. Ray surprised me with a brand-new keyboard. We rushed to storage to get my books, and once again, I’m playing a mean Silent Night.

I pray your Christmas is filled with joy, and as Facebook tells us – calories don’t exist the last ten days of December. I’m counting on it because Ray and I are some of those weirdos who LOVE fruitcake. We’re going to make one from www.outoftheboxbaking.com, and we can’t wait.

WRITING NEWS:
Over the years, I've received wonderful reviews from my readers, but this is one for the ages. I’m still smiling. Here is the Five Star Review for Rekindled for Christmas Eve:

Just in time for the holidays comes this cozy story by Janetta Fudge-Messmer.

It starts with a lost letter, catapults into more than one miracle, and culminates in a laugh-out-loud jolly good time with a terrific cast of characters.

Fudge-Messmer artfully weaves a tale that will have you clutching your heart one minute with her profound and beautifully written moments of faith, and then cackling like a fool the next as you marvel at the antics (and shenanigans) of these funny people.

Boots and Bangles. Uptown Funk. Pepto-Bismol colored cowboy hats. Simply fantastic! Made even better when wrapped in a powerful story of the human spirit.

I thank the Lord for this reader’s kindness. It definitely made my day, week, and year!!! If I haven’t mentioned before, reviews are what inspires a writer to write. And they are so much appreciated!!! REMINDER: Rekindled is .99 cents.

MORE WRITING NEWS:
I’ve completed all the lessons for my writing class that begins on January 13. If you think about it, please pray for me. I’ll let you know how the first day goes in next month’s newsletter. Knowing me, I’m sure it will include comedy of some kind.

We have new managers at the place we stay in the winter, and they are fabulous. So, we’re back to having parties for every occasion. The pictures above are of us dressed up at the Halloween and Thanksgiving dances.

The theme for Halloween was 1980. Looking up clothing in that era, I considered going as a workout queen but settled on a pink tutu, leggings, an MTV t-shirt, and a jeans jacket. I laughed when we came home. I hung the jacket in my closet to wear again—quite a find at Goodwill.

Next, for Thanksgiving, they picked Hillbilly as the theme. And I still cannot believe I went as Daisy Duke. Thank goodness I still had a pair of hose, or those legs wouldn’t have seen the light of day. And pay attention to my cowboy boots. We visited countless thrift stores to find them. Yee-haw!!!

"Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in strips of cloth and lying in a manger." Luke 2:11&12 (NIV)

Until next time…

Blessings!

Tuesday, November 22, 2022

Blessing Moment, Bunnies, and Book Sales

(Where’s the turkey in all this?)

My title doesn’t sound too much like Thanksgiving, but trust me, it’s in here. Let me explain. In 2020, I started to add BLESSING MOMENT to my journal entries. It seemed apropos with what was going on in the world at the time.

And I’ve continued. Each day, I add what has blessed me or how I’ve blessed someone. It’s become a habit, and I love to look back on my day and reflect on what has happened.

Did I have to stretch to find something to write down? Could I say I’d blessed another human being that day? If not, what could I do better tomorrow?

I’m not doing this to keep track of my good deeds, but by doing it, I’ve found it has made me a more grateful person. And what a perfect month to suggest that you try it out. It may surprise you, as well.

A Bunny Story:

You may wonder why I’m talking about bunnies in November. What about a turkey story? Nope! This month’s story is about my sister, Debbie, and her love for rabbits.

A few years ago, I had the privilege of celebrating my sister’s birthday with her. And unbeknownst to me – the gift I would give her was a doozer and one she couldn’t keep at the time I gave it to her.

Are you confused yet?

The year before, Ray and I started going to a whittling class. A few weeks in, I began to ask myself if I did this – would I end up cutting off one of my fingers? Steve, one of the instructors, assured me, “You’ll be fine, Janetta.”

We continued to go, and one week Steve showed me a bunny he’d carved. I fell in love and knew I had to make one for my sister. All I had to do was draw a depiction of the said bunny on the four sides of the wood piece. Secondly, as Steve put it, “Cut away all the wood off the piece that doesn’t look like the bunny.” Easy, for him to say.

By the end of the season, I was well on the way to carving a bunny…only problem…it looked more like a buffalo than a bunny. Again, Steve came to my rescue and stated, “You just need to remove more wood.”

At the last class of the year, I asked Steve if I could ‘kidnap’ his bunny. I wanted to work on mine during our travels. He agreed, and off we went.

This brings me to celebrating my sister’s birthday. I went out and bought decorations, but I struggled as to what to buy her. Then the idea hit me. Give her Steve’s bunny, but put a note that says, “This is not yours to keep.”

Next, I wrapped up my work in progress and wrote on another sticky note, “This ONE is yours, but I have to finish it. As you can see, it doesn’t look like the other one quite yet.”

When Debbie opened the two packages, laughter filled her living room. She gave me a big hug and thanked me for the bunny she would receive one day. Later she told me it was the best birthday she’d ever had. I’m glad I could make her BIG DAY extra special.

I’m happy to report – I finished her bunny and gave it to her the following year. She named her Haley, and the little bunny resides with my sis in Alabama.

Who knew a bunny could bless someone? It sure did in this case.

Writing News: My books are on Sale in time for Christmas!!!
Rekindled for Christmas Eve: www.amazon.com/dp/B0BD8ZGMZ5 - On sale for .99 cents
Early Birds Adventures (Book 1 thru 5): amzn.to/3tQY2WX - All 5 books for $1.99
Pigtails and a Tool Belt: amzn.to/2Xogown - On sale for .99 cents
Waltzing With a Grease Monkey: amzn.to/3hJfJAL - On Sale for .99 cents

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO EVERYONE. Thank you from sticking around and reading my ramblings each month. And for buying my books. You have no idea how much I appreciate each of you!!!

PS: If you want more deals on books just in time for Christmas, go to: https://sharingiscaringbookblog.wordpress.com/Christmas-book-share/.

Until next time…

Blessings!

Janetta Fudge Messmer - Author of Christian Comedy/Romance
“Turning Life Into Comedy”
E-mail: janettafudgemessmer@gmail.com
Website and sign up for the newsletter: http://janettafudgemessmer.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/janetta.fudge.messmer
Twitter: https://twitter.com/nettiefudge

Tuesday, October 25, 2022

MAGGIE (our pooch) KEEPS US SANE
(Because storage units are driving us nuts)

Our pooch has a new ride, and she loves it. A neighbor put a FREE sign on it, and we snatched it up. It’s hot here in Arizona, and we don’t want Maggie to burn her paws. But Ray and I hooted when we ventured outside the other night, and she was in it (see above). I caught another photo with her using it when it was folded up under our RV (see below).

Yes, she is our entertainment! And as my title said, "She keeps us sane."

WRITING NEWS:
Rekindled for Christmas Eve is officially out. And the e-book is .99 cents until the end of October. Since it’s so new, it needs some LOVE in the form of reviews. So, if (or when) you buy it, please go to Amazon, and leave a review. I’d so much appreciate it.

Here is the cover:

Also, the e-books of Chords of Love and Pigtails and a Tool Belt are .99 cents each the rest of this week. I’ve been a little lax in marketing, so I’m amping it up a bit. Just a suggestion – my book would make great gifts for Halloween, Thanksgiving, or Christmas. Or any holiday.

OTHER NEWS:
Ray is back to work at the grill. Unfortunately, he’s working every day because they’re shorthanded. So much for him retiring. If anyone wants a job in Arizona, come on down to Mesa. They’d happily put you to work.

While he’s gone, I’m busy putting my class notes together. I have a new appreciation for teachers. WOW!!! It’s a lot of work, but I’m so excited to help others tell their story. (If anyone didn’t ask me for the questions last month, write me, and I’ll send them to you.)

We’ve also been going through storage and getting rid of more stuff. Some things are easy to toss, but as I asked on Facebook the other day, “Can anyone give me ideas on how to get rid of memorabilia?”

The top answer I received on FB was, “I’m not ready to give it up yet.” What about you? What advice can you give me on this topic? The only one I’ve come up with is taking a picture of the items and then tossing them. I REALLY want to hear your suggestions. Please!

I did laugh the other day. It was like we rewound to nine years ago when we first hit the road. We actually rented TWO different storage units. Our reasoning: the second one, we’d put the stuff we’re keeping in it.

However…

A few days ago, we were at the storage place and discovered the second unit wouldn’t hold everything. Off Ray went to the office to get a third unit. I’m happy to report - we’re officially down to ONE unit again, and we have room for extra items from our RV.

There you have it. Until next time…

Oh, but wait…how would you like to read a short story I penned years ago? Click on the link: https://mcusercontent.com/97645f38333846bc6daf41e62/files/eff4af05-f30f-bd43-9cfb-3a3a418a9d9b/The_Perfect_Time_short_story_07_09_07.01.doc

Blessings!

Wednesday, September 28, 2022

ANNOUNCEMENTS APLENTY

Fall is in the air…but not in Arizona. It was 104 degrees yesterday in Mesa. Heaven forbid.

Okay, I’m done complaining. Let me get into my September newsletter. I’ve filled it with ANNOUNCEMENTS APLENTY.

FIRST ANNOUNCEMENT: We sold our home we purchased last year. Our reasoning: Why pay for a house when we’re not living in it for six months out of the year?

After much deliberation, Ray made a trip to Arizona in June to finish the work on the house and put it on the market. He also boxed up our belongings and stored everything. We’ve closed on the property, which makes us happy campers once again. Yes, we’ll miss the extra space. But the nomad life is what we enjoy. A sticks and bricks house will come later when we’re done RVing.

SECOND ANNOUNCEMENT: In writing news, you may remember that I presented my Tell Your Story Seminar at the Hill City Library last month. And boy, was I surprised when I got there. A reporter from the Hill City Prevailer News interviewed me (see picture above).

What a fun time, teaching and meeting lots of nice people. But one of the best parts happened in the parking lot while loading my car. One of the women from the class came up to me and said, “I didn’t have an apple to give the teacher, but I have this green pepper.” We both laughed, and I thought - as a comedy writer, what a perfect way to end the evening.

THIRD ANNOUNCEMENT: For the last three years, I’ve taught Tell Your Story at the resort where we live. But this year, it will be a little different. I’ve been hired to teach Creative Writing at their Lifestyle University. I’m excited and a little scared, but Ray keeps reminding me that I’m doing the same thing as I do in my classes – only on a bigger platform. I’d appreciate your prayers.

Phew!!! I’m tired just writing all of my stuff down. So, how are you doing? Let me know any big ANNOUNCEMENTS you have in your life.

PS: And I can't forget, please keep Florida in your prayers.

Until next time…

Blessings!

Tuesday, August 23, 2022

OUR FIRST GLIPSE OF STURGIS CRAZINESS
(I still hear the rumbling in my ears)

I’ve heard you’re not supposed to start out with a question, but I can’t help it. Is AUGUST almost over? Where has this year gone? I guess writing two books (and editing them) simultaneously will make the days slip by in a hurry.

And since it is August, the 82^nd Sturgis Rally began (8-5-2022) in Sturgis, South Dakota. It ran for a week. On the first day, we sat on a restaurant’s patio and watched as countless bikes drove by on their way to see the sights. You could ( hear the rumbling for miles.

We’d never been in the area while the rally was going on, so seeing all the different bikes impressed us. One day we headed into Hill City, and Harley Davidson had filled the parking lot with different kinds of bikes. The gentleman said, “You can take any of them for a free test drive.” We did. What fun!!! (See picture at the top)

We also made a trip to Sturgis…on the hottest day of the year (see above photo). Bikes of every make and model filled the downtown area. Other sights we saw are some I won’t soon forget. Who knew there were vendors where you could get your whole body painted? I didn’t. I need to get out more.

Do you have a motorcycle story or pictures to share? Send them, I'd love to see them.

AUGUST FUNNY:

Yes, that's me after I’ve fallen through one of our lawn chairs. I’d inspected it before I sat, but obviously not enough. I’m sitting there, and all of a sudden, I feel the canvas tearing under my behind. I turned to Ray, and there is nothing he could do because I’m slipping into oblivion. The sad (and funny) part my embarrassing moment happened at our Wednesday night dinner with twenty other people watching. Before anyone helped me up, I announced, “Go ahead and take a picture. I write comedy, so this is a perfect shot to put on Facebook.” Side Note: Ray did put it on FB and said I was praising the Lord.

WRITING NEWS:
On August 30, I’m going to present my Tell Your Story Seminar at the Hill City Library. I’m so excited to help others to write their stories. If you think about it, please pray for people to show up and for my presentation. Thank you!!!

OTHER WRITING NEWS:
While putting the finishing touches on Rekindled for Christmas Eve. A writer friend who is multi-published asked me to send her my short blurb and back cover copy.
I did. The next day I received an email, and she recommended I change a part to make it more believable. I had to agree and made the change. I also added a short scene to my novella to make it clearer. Thanks, DiAnn, for your help. I appreciate it.

Until next time...

Blessings!

Tuesday, July 26, 2022

THE STORY BEHIND THE STORY
(Twenty years in the making)

AND THE WINNER IS…Rekindled for Christmas Eve for the title of my novella coming out in October. Thanks to all who voted. I loved your notes as to why you chose the one you did. Honestly, the length of the title was the determining factor.

Because the story talks about the Naval Academy, I sought my brother’s expertise in all things Navy. I’m forever in his debt for helping me get the Naval ranks correct. After we finished talking, I said, “Stan, you can now check off your Bucket List that you’ve read a Contemporary Romance.” He laughed and said he’d enjoyed reading it. Phew!

Here is the short blurb for Rekindled for Christmas Eve:
Reese Solomon returns to Annapolis—the place where Madison broke his heart two decades before. He’s not in Maryland for a week and learns he has a daughter. But while on a jog to clear his head, he runs into her. Is it a miracle or happenstance? Reese finds out Madison is a widow and wants to rekindle their romance. But she wants nothing to do with him. Where was he when she needed him? Why believe him now? And the so-called miracles Reese and her family talk about are driving Maddie nuts. Will she continue to believe the lies others have told her, or will she allow the past to convince her of the truth and trust Reese and the Lord again?

What do you think of the story??? Please let me know.

A STORY BEHIND THE STORY: Years ago (2004), when I started to take writing seriously, I spent a few weeks with my two sisters. We sat down one night and started brainstorming this story. Debbie gave me great ideas, but Linda aimed for the stars and said, “When it’s made into a movie, Tom Selleck will be perfect for the part of Reese.”

I laughed at her optimism for my not-yet-written book and it making it to the big screen. However, for whatever reason, I put the story away and worked on other projects. Years later (2022), I picked it up again, and I’m thrilled at how the story turned out. I hope you will love it as well.

The longer I’m a writer, I find writing and life are similar. Not all the ideas that pop into my head will become a novel or novella. Or, in this case, this one needed more time to process to become a finished book. And, as with life, instead of jumping in with both feet when making decisions – we need to let our grand ideas simmer. If we do, we’ll have a much better outcome.

Concerning Rekindled for Christmas Eve becoming a movie – Mr. Selleck won’t play the main character, but he will make a perfect Captain Pointer. For Reese, I’m voting for Bradley Cooper. Just saying…

OTHER NEWS:
Over the years, I’ve written my journal out in long hand. I stopped when I got my first laptop and now do them on the computer. So, while we loaded the RV to hit the road this year, I brought along nine of my journals.

My plan was to go through them and type the important stuff into the new file for the particular year. I did, and I can verify – between 1984 and 1992, we ate out NUMEROUS times, consumed tons of ice cream/yogurt, took tons of weekend trips, and moved countless times. Even back then, I’d classify us as gypsies. Guess we’ll probably never change.

Until next time…

PS: And before I go, I have to say a big THANK YOU to my siblings. I couldn't have done the project without your help. Love ya bunches!!!

Blessings!

Thursday, June 30, 2022

TELL YOUR STORY

(you have plenty of them)

Before we talk about TELL YOUR STORY, I want to ask if you checked out Janice Hanna Thompson’s blog (www.outoftheboxbaking.com) from last month’s newsletter? So here’s another chance if you didn’t. She’s waiting to share recipes with you.

Now to my June newsletter. Stories, as any author would say, are a topic close to our hearts. As far back as I can remember, I’ve loved to write. Be it poems or short stories. Thoughts of becoming a New York Bestselling Author danced in my head.

But a short story I wrote in seventh grade almost derailed my writing career before it even began. Four of my friends decided we’d each write a ‘racy’ story and let the others read it when we finished it. This happened 1968/1969 timeframe. So, how spicy could it have been?

I wrote mine, and somehow, in passing it to one of my friends, it was intercepted by my teacher. Even though she promised to keep it to herself, I caught sight of my mother sitting in the principal’s office a few days later.

OH MY GOODNESS!!! I’M DEAD!!!

When I got home that afternoon, the only words my mom said to me after she came to my room were, “You’ll never do that again, will you?” At that moment, I would have agreed to anything to stop Mom’s wrath.

Oh, how I’d love to read that story today. The steamiest it got was kissing a boy, and I’m not sure I knew what I was talking about at such a young age. And even with my mom’s warning. I kept writing, which most of you are aware of.

And that’s enough about me and my love of storytelling. I want to talk about how YOU need to TELL YOUR STORY. I came up with this idea when I spent a month with my mom as she transitioned into a nursing home.

One day I started asking Mom random questions. Nothing earth-shattering. Basic questions about her childhood, siblings, parents, etc. At the end of our month together, I had over thirty-five pages of what I like to call: Mom’s Story. I’m glad I did it since my mom passed away two months later. (See picture above of the book I made for my siblings. They loved it.)

I don’t share this story to depress you, but to let you know you also have stories to tell. Memories from your past (and present). Stories that made you who you are today. Nuggets of gold your family wants to read about.

I can hear some of you murmuring. You’re saying what my mom said, “No one will want to read what I have to say.” But, people, take it from me. Your family is interested in the stories of your childhood and beyond.

One story I have to share from my mom is when she was in California around 1942. She would have been eighteen years old. I asked her about the war, and she said, “Oh, there were lots of good-looking soldiers on the train. I dated a man named Pickle.”

That’s right. I said, Pickle. After I quit laughing, I said, “Mom, you dated a Pickle and married a Fudge. What are the odds?” She smiled and added, “I never thought about that.”

My mother had plenty to say…once I got her going. But she wouldn’t have shared her stories if I hadn’t asked her the questions. And to help you get started in your quest to TELL YOUR STORY, I’ve compiled a list of questions to get you started. If you are interested in receiving the, emailed me and I will send you the file.

As a reminder, so you don’t get overwhelmed: You can answer the questions with a sentence, a paragraph, or write a page. There’s not a right or wrong way to do it. My advice to you is – Sit down and begin. Remember, YOU HAVE STORIES TO TELL.

QUOTE from Anne Lamott: “You own everything that happened to you. Tell your stories. If people wanted you to write warmly about them, they should have behaved better.”

WRITING NEWS:
I'm done with my novella. It's off to my editors. I have two titles, so I'll let YOU pick which one you like. 1) A SEASON OF UNDENIABLE MIRACLES or 2) REKINDLED FOR CHRISTMAS. Whichever one gets the most votes - is the winner. Please help. I like them both!!!

I’ll end with a poem I wrote, concerning Tell Your Story:

The words we pen are ours alone.
Pieces of our story are priceless.
Places in it are painful.
But most of all – it’s praiseworthy.
Our legacy within the pages.
Our journey mapped out.
Our life forever lived.

I hope I’ve helped you to begin your journey of telling your story. Don't forget to email me so I can send you the questions. AND vote for the best title. Thank you!!!

Until next time…

Blessings!

Tuesday, May 24, 2022

YES, I’M A GROUPIE

The title is true. For May’s newsletter I’m going to be a groupie. And I hope you become one as well after I tell you about Janice Hanna Thompson. She’s a writer, a mentor, a mom, a grandmother, and in her spare time – she directs plays.

And did I mention she’s a baker extraordinaire, which we will cover later? The picture above is one of her creations.

But first I have to tell you - my writing soared under her tutelage. She played a large part in all of my books, but my historical romance, Chords of Love, wouldn’t exist without her. She and I brainstormed a crazy idea and it’s now in print. And I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the cover.

As you can see, my friend means the world to me. And that is why she’s featured in my newsletter this month. Along with everything I mentioned above, she’s started a blog and it needs to get out for the world to see it. Go to: www.outoftheboxbaking.com.

I’ll wait while you click on it and peruse the delectable pictures. I so wish Janice could find a way to make her site scratch and sniff.

Okay, that’s enough time. Now if those photos didn’t awaken your taste buds, you better check your pulse ‘cause you are D.E.A.D. FYI: Ray made the Light and Fluffy biscuits (one ingredient is mayonnaise) and yummy is all we can say (picture below is our biscuit and gravy breakfast).

I owe Janice a huge THANK YOU for the help she’s given me over the years. And today is my turn to give back to her. Please go to her website and click the subscribe button (https://outoftheboxbaking.com/sign-up/).

There are two options: you can subscribe to her RSS feed to receive recipes as they drop or to her newsletter, where you can learn more about all of her antics. Oh, and while you’re at it – check out her fabulous books. Janice’s wit is infectious.

Also, here are some of Janice’s recommended posts:
Common Baking Substitutions (https://outoftheboxbaking.com/2022/05/13/common-baking-substitutions-best-tips-and-tricks/)

How to Doctor a Boxed Cake Mix (https://outoftheboxbaking.com/2022/02/02/how-to-doctor-a-boxed-cake-mix-the-ultimate-guide/)

Old-Fashioned Pound Cake with Whipping Cream (https://outoftheboxbaking.com/2022/05/06/old-fashioned-pound-cake-with-whipping-cream/)

Whether you like to bake cakes, cookies, cupcakes, or other sweet treats, there’s something on her blog for everyone to enjoy. And talk about tips and tricks! You’ll find a drop-down menu filled with baking hacks to make your time in the kitchen more enjoyable.

Here’s the full story on how this blog came to be: https://outoftheboxbaking.com/about/

Enjoy looking at photos of cakes and cookies? You’ll find a ton here: https://outoftheboxbaking.com/themed-party-ideas/ Here are a couple of examples of her fabulous cakes.

PS: Please share this information with your family and friends. Tell them how to subscribe. They’ll thank you for it. And let me know what recipes you make from the ones on her blog. And I’ll keep you posted on the ones Ray makes. Remember, he’s the chef in our family.

Until next time...oh, and before I forget - I'm working on finishing my novel and novella. News on them next month. Hugs to everyone!!!

Blessings!

Wednesday, April 27, 2022

FINDING FUNNIES IN THE FIASCOS

We’re officially OTRA (on the road again). And before I continue, the reason for the explanation – I have some new subscribers. WOOHOO!!! Thank you for joining us and to those who have been with me a while, I’m sending virtual hugs your way. Oh, how I appreciate all of you!!!

Since I mentioned we’re traveling, I have to tell you it hasn’t come without a few pitfalls. But you know me—I always find funnies in the fiascos.

Hubby found us a camping spot at the Junkyard on 66 Brewery. After fighting high winds, we pulled in and parked among junked vehicles. I told Ray, “I didn’t think it’d be a literal junkyard.” He laughed, and we ventured inside. BTW: Good food, beer, and we met a friendly couple.
We heard a loud noise going down the highway. A trucker motioned to the side of our RV. Ray stopped, and I started to pray. He returned and, in a calm voice, said, “One of the outside doors flew open. We lost our white plastic table, and it’s nowhere to be found.” (Side Note: We thanked the Lord and ate chicken fried steak at Cracker Barrel to calm down.)
We arrived at the campground in South Dakota, and Ray hooked up the water. Everything worked but the bathroom sink. After we both tried to solve the problem, a neighbor suggested we check the mesh screen on the faucet. Ray didn’t, but after another hour, he admitted defeat and unscrewed the end of the spout. He found it was clogged and rinsed it out. With the issue solved, he walked over to our neighbor and thanked her.

RVing is an adventure, and when it comes to Ray and me – we continue Turning Life into Comedy!!!

WRITING NEWS:
I’m in the editing phase on both books. I’ll finish the first run through this week on my novel and start on the edits on my novella in May.

WRITER’S CORNER:
This month I’m featuring one of my fellow authors from Winged Publications. Sherri Stewart has a new book and she wanted to tell you all about it.

The Everyday Heroine
By
Sherri Stewart

What does it take to make a heroine? I wish women didn’t have to share the word with a deadly narcotic! My answer to this question came as I wrote the book, A Song for Her Enemies. Prior to that book, if you’d have asked me what a female hero was, I’d have given you a list of examples: Florence Nightingale, Rosa Parks, Joan of Arc, Corrie ten Boom—women who rose to a challenge and did amazing things. But now I realize a heroine doesn’t have to slay dragons; she just has to do the little thing that’s required at the moment when life becomes difficult.

In the book, Tamar was a Jewish twenty-year-old singer in Haarlem when the Nazis took over the town and closed the opera house. She had no skills other than her voice, but she joined the Dutch Resistance as a messenger because her blond hair allowed her to walk past the Nazi guards to leave the ghetto she lived in. Here’s the first clue. Heroines have something to offer, even if it’s just hair color. On one of her walks, she entered a home full of refugees where one of them was in labor. The atmosphere was tense, so she was asked to sing a song to quiet the children. Here’s clue number two. Heroines never know when they’ll be called upon to do something heroic, even if it’s just singing a children’s song.

Sometimes the very thing that blesses others also causes unanticipated results. It was Tamar’s blond hair and her beautiful singing voice that caused a Nazi officer in the sequel that I’ve just finished writing—In Her Enemies’ House—to become obsessed with her. Clue number three—whatever God calls a heroine to do may have consequences she cannot control, still God calls us to be everyday heroines, to look for those little things that will bless someone else. That’s the definition of a heroine.

Blurb
After Nazi soldiers close the opera and destroy Tamar Kaplan’s dream of becoming a professional singer, she joins the Dutch Resistance, her fair coloring concealing her Jewish heritage. Tamar partners with Dr. Daniel Feldman, and they risk their lives to help escaping refugees. When they are forced to flee themselves, violinist Neelie Visser takes them into hiding.

Tamar’s love for Daniel flowers in hardship, but she struggles with the paradox that a loving God would allow the atrocities around her. When Tamar resists the advances of a Third Reich officer, he exacts his revenge by betraying the secrets hidden behind the walls of Neelie’s house. From a prison hospital to a Nazi celebration to a concentration camp, will the three of them survive to tell the world the secrets behind barbed wire? https://amzn.to/3NY2VXg

Bio
Sherri Stewart loves to write a clean novel, sprinkled with romance and a strong message that challenges her faith. She spends her working hours with books—either editing others’ manuscripts or writing her own. Her passion is traveling to the settings of her books, sampling the food, and visiting the sites. She loves the Netherlands, and she’s still learning Dutch, although she doesn’t need to since everyone seems to speak perfect English. A recent widow, Sherri lives in the Orlando area with her lazy dog, Lily, and her son, Joshua, who can fix anything. She shares recipes, tidbits of her books’ locations, and pix in her newsletter. Subscribe at http://eepurl.com/gZ-mv9
https://www.amazon.com/author/sherristewart
https://www.facebook.com/sherristewartauthor/

Thank you, Sherri. Reminder: You can find Sherri's books on Amazon.

Until next time...

Blessings!

Wednesday, March 30, 2022

DISTURBANCES AREN'T ALL BAD!

I’ll begin this month’s newsletter with WRITING NEWS. And it’s huge!!! I wrote THE END on my novella on Friday, and I’m surprised the seismologists in Arizona didn’t register an earthquake from my dancing around.

As I reported two months ago in my newsletter, computer problems stopped my forward motion with the book I was writing. But that’s not all—Covid knocked on our door too? I remember yelling, “Can I catch a break here? I need to finish this novella.”

Our symptoms consisted of aches and pains, a slight fever, and we averaged nine to ten hours of sleep a night. I am surprised Fitbit didn’t email us and ask if we’d given them to someone else or thrown them away. HA!!! And we never lost our smell or taste.

During our ten days of quarantine, we played Cribbage, watched way too much HGTV, took naps, AND I thought about this disturbance that took me away from writing.

In the end, I found out it worked in my favor. It gave me time to rest. Don’t we all need to refresh, take a breather, and have an adult version of time out occasionally to regroup?

Here are a few ideas I came up with to help you face those hectic days:

Remember to take a break. Say no. The world won’t end if we’re not participating for a day or two.
Relax and read a book (preferably one of mine – HA!!!).
Take a mini vacation, even if it’s for an hour in your living room. Let the worries of this world melt away. At the end of the time, leave your anxieties at the Lord’s feet…where they belong.

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. Matthew 11:28-30

PS: Please let me know how you plan to rest and relax. I’d love to hear your ideas!!!

Until next time...

Blessings!

Thursday, February 24, 2022

WAITING FOR NEWS FROM A DISTANT LAND

(and it was BIG)

This week’s homework for the class I teach was: Write about a time you won BIG!!! I told the participants that it could be about anything. I had a story in mind and got busy writing it.

Here’s my contribution:

I’d always dreamed of hitting it big in writing. When I started putting pen to paper—my favorite joke was that I’d have an article in Guideposts Magazine someday. “Yeah, right, Janetta. You write poems. That’ll happen when pigs fly.”

Yes, I talked to myself, but when we moved to the Houston area, I decided to pursue writing. And boy did I land in a goldmine. First, I found a writing group at Barnes and Noble on Monday night. And through them, I found a Christian writing group that met on Thursdays.

Each week I’d go to these meetings and read my stories. Some weeks the critiques curled my hair, but I learned valuable lessons from their questions about my story. I used their suggestions to polish my work in progress.

During this time, I also joined Toastmasters. One speech I wrote had to do with Ray and me owning an auto repair shop. It talked about our ups and downs as a couple, working together. I fine-tuned it and, on a whim, sent it to Guideposts.

From this point forward, I’ll have you read the speech I wrote about the experience:

WAITING FOR NEWS FROM A DISTANT LAND

I pressed the SEND button. Now I’d wait to hear whether they accepted or rejected the short story I sent.
            Madame Toastmaster, Fellow Toastmasters, and Honored Guests – I waited but knew the news from a distant land (New York) could take weeks before I heard anything.
            After dinner that night, Ray and I went into my office. Since we were in there, I told him to check my emails. I spied one from the place I'd sent to earlier in the day. Sure didn’t take them long to reject my story. I thought.
            I asked Ray to open it, and the words astounded me. “Thanks for sending your story. It’s not right as it is, but maybe there’s a story here about spouses working together. We’ll have one of our editors call and pick your brain.”
Sincerely,
Rick Hamlin
            I danced around my desk, stopping only to reread the note. “Someone to pick my brain. Ray, I can’t believe this.” He congratulated me, and I got right to work on my new-and-improved story. In a few days, with it polished to perfection, I sent it back to them.
Then I waited and waited and waited. Not a single word from Guideposts came. I all but gave up and decided to make a trip to see my folks.
            A week into my trip, Ray called and sounded a little too cheery. He told me to call home and get messages. Before I could say anything—he hung up.
            Toastmasters, I tried five different times, but I couldn’t remember how to check messages. Finally, I called Ray back and said, “Just tell me.”
            “Guideposts called, and they are going to publish your story. Congratulations, honey.”
            I hung up and turned to my folks, asking if they minded if I screamed. My 82-year-old mom and 90-year-old dad nodded. They had no clue the reason for my exuberance.
            I’m certain I yelled, but not as loud as if I’d been in my own house, but I did express my profound happiness.
            The following week I returned home and received the phone call in which the editor “picked my brain.” I shared countless stories of our time at Baseline Auto Service--certain not to forget the part where Ray fired me. This must have shocked him because I heard nothing on the other end of the line. Thought he might have hung up on me.
            He finally spoke and said he couldn’t believe Ray had fired me. I assured him it happened and, even with the tiny hiccup, remained happily married.
After we hung up, I again waited. And trust me—when they did call, we weren’t ready for what they proposed. Guideposts informed us they were sending out a photographer to take pictures of us. I reminded them we didn’t own the shop anymore. The woman on the other end of the line suggested we do something together – like plant something.
The photographer arrived, and she took pictures of us planting bushes. One shot, she had me put my arm around Ray while he patted the ground. It took every part of my being not to laugh because I couldn’t remember the last time we’d gotten romantic while digging in the dirt.
Then we moved inside – and changed clothes. The woman had us play peek-a-book with our chenille throw. Do you know how hard it is to frolic around when someone is pointing a camera at you? Relief flooded over me when she announced she was finished.
Now I waited, but this time, in the end, I’d hold the actual magazine in my hand. And once I held the publication in my hand, it was worth the wait. The Lord knew the perfect time.
Toastmasters, “Like cold water to a weary soul is good news from a distant land.” (Prov. 25:25)

PS: My winning BIG at the beginning of my writing career (in 2005) changed my life. And it spurred me on to write novels, which I never thought I even wanted to do. Thank you to my readers for your encouragement (and loyalty). It’s invaluable!!! Love ya!!!

Until next time...

Blessings!

Thursday, January 27, 2022

NOVEL or NOVELLA

(it’s taken on a mind of its own)

January has seemed to slip away without me noticing. The only excuses I can come up with for my delay in writing is my computer acting up. One day it worked. The next, hubby is checking online to purchase me a new machine.

From the living room, I yelled, “But I love this one. I’ve had it six years.”

“Dear, it’s outstayed its welcome. You’ll learn to love the new one too.”

After a visit with the Geeks, I’m happy to report I’m still using the original one. Who needs a new computer? Not me. And from this point forward, I’ll save my work. Don’t want to lose my work in progress.

And this brings me to a story about my WIP. It was supposed to be a novella (20,000-25,000 words) due October 1, 2022, and set at Christmas time. I started it and at the close of 2021 – I’d typed almost 43,000 words on it.

Yes, 43,000 words. I tried to shush my characters when I reached around 23,000 words, but they kept chattering. I finally had to admit that I’d written a novel. The next step was to turn my attention to writing another book (the novella) to fulfill my October deadline.

I started on it, and that’s when my computer died. This is the life of an author. Surprises at every turn. I don’t know when the novel will be published. Still have to edit it countless times, but I’ll keep you posted on a release date. And finish the other one. Help!!!

FAMILY/FRIENDS NEWS:
Our family and friends’ homes weren’t touched by the fires in Colorado, but please continue to lift the state in your prayers. The people who lost their homes find it almost impossible to locate new places.

We’ve all been touched by something difficult over the last two years, but this verse is what I cling to each day. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6

Until next time...

Blessings!

Wednesday, December 15, 2021

PEACE ON EARTH

(let it begin with me!)

From our home to yours: Merry Christmas to everyone. Ray and I hope your holiday gives you time to enjoy your family and friends. December can get hectic, but always remember the Reason for the Season: Jesus Christ the Lord.

As promised last month, this newsletter will be all about the Rusty Moose Bed and Breakfast we owned and operated from 1999 to 2001. Unfortunately, our beloved B&B ended too soon, but it’s all good. The wonderful memories from there live on.

We purchased the property (see above photo) in about four hours. On a drive outside of Montrose, Colorado, I spotted the barn-style house, and it was for sale. We called the realtor, and after a quick look-through, we bought it that day.

In our first year, most of our guests arrived at our doorstep when the hotels in Montrose filled up. Our philosophy: business is business. We opened our home to an array of interesting people. Some had never stayed at a B&B before, but we sold them on the concept.

Guests from England, Germany, the Middle East, Canada, and the United States came to stay at our place. One family, I remember, had four young girls. They entertained us with their songs after breakfast. The littlest one sang Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star, and brought the house down.

A couple stayed with us, and two months later, we received Rusty in the mail (above photo). The gentleman said, “This is what you look like after you’ve served all of your bed and breakfast guests.” And he wasn’t kidding. We were tuckered out but loved every minute of it.

Since our business was seasonal, we came up with different ideas to generate income in the slower months. I spoke to the quilt shop in town, and the owner decided to hold their weekend quilt retreat at our place. Another time, a group of massage therapists came to learn new techniques with stone therapy. I’m happy to report they gave Ray and me a massage. Amazing!

One of the funniest stories in the almost three years in business had to do with mini muffins. We’d served larger muffins but found people didn’t finish them. So to solve the issue of waste, Ray bought tiny muffin tins, and the smaller ones did the trick.

One weekend, this family stayed with us. They came down for breakfast the next morning, and Carol sat down and started eating the muffins. I didn’t pay attention to the amount she ate, but I overheard her tell her sister, “I’m not sure, but I think I ate 19 mini muffins.”

I acted like I didn’t hear anything and informed the cook (Ray) we’d need more muffins the following morning. And, as with any great chef, he followed directions and fixed a triple batch. Carol sat down and grabbed a muffin. In no time, she broke her previous record and came in at 24 mini muffins—this fact, she announced to everyone as she headed upstairs.

We’ve retold Carol’s story more than once, and it still makes us laugh. And did I mention she threw a few mini muffins across the table? We’re almost sure she wanted someone else to eat as many as she did. Such a fun time.

As you can see, we’ve got stories to tell, but I’ll end with the lesson we learned. Pursue your dreams. Our dream was to own a B&B, but we never intended to buy it in four hours. We’re glad we did, though, because we had the time of our lives meeting people from all walks of life.

For those few hours (or days), our guests stayed at the Moose – it was like nothing else mattered in their world. No one had an opinion about who voted for who or any other hot topic of the day. Guess you could say we had Peace on Earth.

Let’s all give peace, kindness, and love a try this Christmas season and into 2022.

“Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger.” Luke 2:10-11

PS: More pictures from the Moose!!!

Until next time…

Blessings!

Wednesday, November 17, 2021

IT ALL FITS!!!
(moving boxes, memorabilia, and moose)

All of us have moved sometime in our lives. Maybe across the country or around the block. With Ray and I, I’d wager we’d win the award for the most moves in forty years. Our biggie, though, is how many times we’ve put stuff in storage.

Until a few weeks ago, we had a unit in Florida, but it was time to go pick up our belongings. Hubby flew to the Sunshine State and drove a U-Haul back to Arizona with our possessions. I stayed home, trying to remember what we’d stored for almost three years ago.

When we unloaded, I knew I’d find Elvis tucked somewhere. Yes, his head cocks to one side, and he looks a little ratty, but I can’t part with him. I’d begged my parents for the brightly colored pooch, and they gave it to me at my surprise birthday party when I turned seven.

I have to share a cute story about Elvis and our neighbor. She watched our house while we’d gone on a cruise. After we returned, she showed me the above picture of her ‘walking’ Elvis. We laughed, and she told us, “I saw him in your spare bedroom, and he asked me to take him on a walk.” Priceless. See why I can’t get rid of him?

The above montage of moose is out of their box and on top of our dresser. Most are gifts from our guests at the bed and breakfast we owned. Ray bought me Rusty (see the second picture), and when we opened our bed and breakfast in 1999, we named it the Rusty Moose B&B.

We no longer have the bed and breakfast, and I promise to tell you all about it in a future newsletter. I do have to say since we’ve put the metal moose out at our new place in AZ – we’ve gotten some strange looks from people who walk by.

As I continued to unpack, I remembered Elvis and the variety of moose, but a wooden box filled with memorabilia from my dad stopped me. I had to check it out. I opened it and pictures from my father’s Navy days poured out.

He’d served on the U.S.S. Marblehead during World War II. The picture above is of my dad, his mother, and his father. He’s quite the dapper fellow in his uniform, don't you think? Oh, how I wish I’d taken the time to listen closer to Dad’s stories and written them down.

What creative ways have you handled your memorabilia? Let me know. I need ideas.

WRITING NEWS:
The novella I’m writing has more intrigue in it than I planned, but I’m loving it. My characters keep throwing me curveballs. Can anyone imagine a story that includes Africa, septic tanks, and a bed and breakfast? Stay tuned…

BTW: Wishing a HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY!!! May it be filled with grace, peace, and love!!! And before I go, I have to tell my readers I'm so thankful for you. You are the BEST!!!

Until next time…

Blessings!