Blogging

Yesterday, I had a discussion with a friend who asked me what "blogging" was all about and I explained to her that it was like writing your thoughts in diary-form for the World Wide Web to read.

She asked me, "Why would anyone want to do such a thing?"

Umm...

Then I realized I've been doing this blogging thing for a while, not consistently, but long enough. And I blog on other sites as well, including Boomer Babes.

Blogging has become a powerful source in connecting with others. In fact, some of us may have more virtual friends than flesh and blood friends. The Internet is not going away and will continue to become an important part of our friendship network.

I will be hosting Allison Bottke's new book, Setting Boundaries, on April 30th and will be offering a free book at that time. If you would like to read more about this powerful new topic, check out Allison's website.

How powerful is the Internet in the book industry?

The following are some of the reasons why people buy and read books. Let me know if this rings true with you.

1. Previous familiarity with the author - 99.1%

2. Recommendation of a friend - 91.2%

3. Reading about a book on another person's blog or website - 80.3% (That explains the blog tour phenomenon!).

4. Reading about a book on the author's website - 62.6%

And I would like to add a fifth reason why people read a book--interest in the subject!

If you know anyone who has enabled their adult child (and who doesn't), then grab a copy of Allison's new book: Setting Boundaries with Your Adult Children.

Bless you on your blogging journey!

Out of Place?

Today I'm blogging on Boomer Babes about feeling out of place? It happens quite often and sometimes it's where I least expect it. I'll let you read for yourself and maybe you have some experiences you'd like to share.

But today, I thought I would answer a mentoring question posed to me in an e-mail about writing. This is where I feel "out of place" because I believe that writing is a gift...for some of us it comes naturally and for others it is a craft that continues to evolve. There's no one set way to get into writing. I never even intended to be a writer, but a cancer diagnosis changed the way I looked at life. I knew absolutely nothing about writing, publishers, editors, but I do remember attending one event in Nashville (I thought it was a writer's conference!); it was NOT. It was a publisher's conference and it was scary! The first editor I met said, "You're not blonde, rich or famous so why do I care?" That was my first introduction into the writing world. I went home and in two months I wrote Trading Ashes for Roses, number 17 on my passionate to-do list (I guess now we can call it the "Bucket List" made popular by the movie!).

Here's my advice to new writers:

1. Make sure you love to write because you will be spending a lot of time in front of the computer screen. Ask other writers how they plan their day and what drew them into writing (you might be surprised at the answers). Don't quit your day job yet!

2. Writer's Groups. That's a hard one. I just recently joined one (sort of). I'm one of those writers that flys by the seat of her pants. I write, revise (only once), and then submit! I know other authors who have to go to a writer's group, get their piece critiqued, sit on it for months, and then eventually hit the send button. There's no right or wrong way. My advice: Just do it! Writer's groups aren't for everyone. If you feel that you need the input of others to stay focused, encouraged, and enlightened, then by all means join one.

3. Writer's Conferences. This is where I'm going to get into some real hot water, so I'm going to share my thoughts cautiously. This is where you have an opportunity to meet editors one on one. In the writing industry, it's not what you know, but who you know. So I know authors who gallop from one conference to another to rub elbows with editors (sometimes jumping over barricades to shake hands and give a pitch). If this is you, then go for it. There are some great workshops, a time to network, have your work reviewed, and possibly even land a book contract. I have only been to one writer's conference where I was presenting a compilation book and I do teach at writer's conferences. Something to consider: They are expensive, so find out what your needs are first. Ask yourselves these questions: Do you want a quiet, intimate setting with more one on one mentoring or do you like the highly charged, 350 editors and authors in one place with hundreds of workshops to choose from? Just Google "Christian Writer's Conferences" and you'll find one that will fit your needs.

4. Why do you want to write a book? This is a question I ask everyone first. You would be surprised at the answers I receive. "I want to be rich and famous!" Wrong answer. Unless you are in the top ten best seller's list of the NY Times, you will not get rich writing a book. Certainly, it does open doors that otherwise wouldn't be opened for you, but unless you have about six or seven books under your belt, you may be surprised at those royalty checks. Why? Books are sold by proposal, which is 80% marketing, which means you need a platform (what is it that makes you the right one to write the book; do you have big name endorsements; do you have a large e-mail list; do you have a unique message with a hook and slant?). Think of it in these terms: Every book has already been written ("there's nothing new under the sun"--you just have to come up with a different slant and twist!).

5. Submit, submit, submit. Start small and work up. I did it backwards. I wrote my book first and then submitted to magazines and compilation books. Write for Chicken Soup, Cup of Comfort, and God Allows U-Turns. There are a lot of compilation books out there. Building writing credits is important; it gives you credibility and it also allows you to find your "voice" in writing. Most editors will tell you that the "voice" of a writer is one of the most important things they consider when reviewing book proposals. Don't try to write like other authors...that's their voice, not yours. I hear young writers say, "I wish I could write like...(fill in the blank)." My reponse is, "Why would you want to do that?" That's their handprint...no two writers are the same and all of us would approach the same subject in different ways. I know authors who tab pages of books, underline phrases, and try to "copy" another author's approach, but that's not really writing is it?

6. The last and most important question is, "What is your message?" Do you have a unique story to tell? Then don't wait for the right time, start writing and do it every day. Don't wait for inspiration...just write! Find a place that's comfortable for you: I write in hotel lobbies on paper napkins!

7. I wanted to end with a perfect "odd" number, but realized I would let you determine what #7 is for you!

Wherever your writing career takes you, I pray it's one that is a blessing to you! When you've identified what makes writing a "blessing" to you, you'll never feel out of place as a writer!

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My Sister...My Twin!

Do you have a sister or a mentor who has made a difference in your life?

Today I’m blogging on Boomer Babes Rock about my sister, who is also my “twin.” We are so much alike in many ways and like all sisters, we differ on many things. We don’t dress alike anymore, except accidentally and we don’t “fight” like we used to, but what we do more than anything is cherish the few times that we have together. My sister, Sheryl, lives 3,000 miles away and so spending time with her on a day-to-day basis isn’t possible, but we make up for it in concentrated snippets of time while I’m home.

The remainder of the month of February I’m collecting stories of mentors who made a difference in your life. It could be a sister, a neighbor, a teacher, a friend…someone who made an impact that left a lasting impression.
At the end of the month, I will post the story and the winner will receive the One Year Life Verse Devotional by Tyndale House Publishers.

Enjoy the joys of a mentoring relationship!

Passion for Meeting People!

I love meeting new people; in fact, it's my passion! As a writer, I spend most of my days at the keyboard pounding out words into sentences that hopefully someone will read. And then there's the other part of my life where I emerge from my office and speak, which is another passion of mine. Then, occasionally, the words that I make into sentences appear in books! Imagine that? That's when you actually get to call yourself an author. The best part of that is you get to meet the people who read what you wrote! Now I know that some authors detest book signings because after all some authors are introverts; they just like to hide behind their words. Not me! I'm a sanguine personality and I'm energized by being with people, which makes the people that are introverts hide from people like me. So author events are fun, like the one I had this Saturday, January 12th at Barnes & Noble in Lancaster, PA with Susan Kelly Skitt, Michele C. Scott and myself. Of course, these events just don't happen...there is some leg work that takes place beforehand.

But in our case, Ken Ebert, CRM of Barnes & Noble is the best at what he does. There were fresh flowers on the table, posters all over the store with hourly updates, and the book table was graced with every need at our disposal: CHOCOLATE, pens (in all varieties from sharpies to ballpoints), notepads, Kleenex, ice water and cups, books neatly stacked, and a tablecloth that matched the book cover). What more could an author ask for? And still, Ken asked, "Can I get you anything else?" Having all that done in advance, frees us up to talk to people--my passion.

After the event, we usually go out to dinner (and that's fun too!). This was a combined author event for the One Year Life Verse Devotional by Tyndale House and joining me were: Susan Kelly Skitt, Michele C. Scott, and myself. You can view the slide show by clicking here.

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All I Want for Christmas is my Car Keys!

Do you tend to lose things...important things...vital things like car keys? When I'm at home, I have a special place for them and I always know where to find them, but when I'm out and about shopping with a million things on my mind, they tend to wander into different places. But I have to admit, this time I really did it! I mailed my car keys to Harrisonburg, Virginia (by accident of course).

Today, I'm blogging on Boomer Babes, so you can read all about it. If you have done something "crazy" like mailing your car keys or maybe something more embarrassing, let me know...I'd love to hear about it.

My son arrives home from college today, so I'm out to stock the refrigerator! He's passionate about FOOD and I don't want to hear the words, "There's nothing to eat here!"

Happy Shopping Everyone (and don't forget your car keys!).

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Christmas Giving!

Yesterday I got back from the mall and thought, Now I know why I do my Christmas shopping in October! I got shoved, bumped, and tripped. And all I wanted to buy was a pair of fuzzy warm socks...you know the kind? They are microfiber and feel like a scarf on your feet. I bought the confetti ones (they look as good as they feel)!.

When I emerged from the chaos inside the mall, I thought I was home free, except I couldn't find my car (a few hundred more cars moved into all the little slots where I thought my car should have been). I wandered aimlessly pointing my key chain "gizmo" to every white-colored car (do you know how many people have white cars?). As I pointed and clicked, I prayed that somewhere out there, my car's headlights would "wink" back at me. No such luck! I finally had to stop at Starbucks to receive "nourishment" before I continued on my journey!

To help lessen your burden, so you don't get shoved, bumped, tripped or bruised at the shopping mall, I'm offering my holiday gift package to you: Five FREE books and a Josh Groban CD. I started a ShoutLife page and all the details are there. So here's what I'm giving away:

Chicken Soup for the Coffee Lover's Soul (strange huh? Soup in your coffee?)

Living The Serenity Prayer by Adams Media

The One Year Life Verse Devotional by Tyndale House

God Allows U-Turns for Women by Bethany House

A Cup of Comfort Devotional For Mothers by Adams Media

CD: Noel by Josh Groban (if I have the courage to part with it!). Thankfully, it's all wrapped up!

(Just let me know if you want the books autographed!)

Go to http://www.womensmentoringministries.com/ and sign up for my free newsletter and you will be entered into the contest. Deadline: High Noon on Saturday, December 15, 2007 (EST). Under the "Contact Us" link (type in book bundle giveaway!). That's it!

Happy "Shopping"!

P.S. I know what I'm asking for Christmas...a GPS device (one for inside the car and the other on my key chain!).

Friendship!

Today I spoke at Cedar Grove United Methodist Church on the subject of friendship at their Ladies' Day Retreat!

The scenery on the way to Deale, Maryland was breathtaking. Several times I swerved off the side of the road or rolled down the window to take a picture. Everywhere I turned there was another photo grabbing for my attention.

After the reatreat one of the ladies, Sharon, took me on a tour of Deale. If you ever get a chance, don't miss this gem of a town. With a view of the Chesapeake and quaint shops and cottages surrounding the yacht clubs, it's a haven of rest for the weary soul.

I stopped off at charming coffee shop on the drive home and almost stayed; it was the best cappuccino I ever tasted. I ended up giving one of my books away: "Chicken Soup for the Coffee Lover's Soul" for the best brew in town!

Who can beat a good cup of java and friends? Click here to view the slide show.

Fall Splendor

I had the privilege of being the retreat speaker this past weekend at the Traber Center. Fall came a little late to the East Coast, but arrived in its full splendor the weekend of Nov. 2-4. Although I missed the morning walks at 7:00 a.m., I found the retreat leader, Terry Ferguson, enjoyed my passion for photography. We snuck away for an afternoon photo shoot. Walking over a suspension bridge provided the perfect view of the river, lakes and ponds that painted a canvas of God's magnificent creation.

The food was awesome! Chef Mark prepared some of the most amazing meals I have ever tasted. One night for dessert we had ice cream with two types of homemade sauces: chocolate with cayenne pepper and butterscotch with walnuts. My personal favorite was the chocolate: spicy hot and sweet!

But the laughter during the weekend burned off any calories we might have gained, and the fellowship was tremendous. The ladies of First Baptist Church of Phillipsburg in New Jersey are an awesome group. I spoke on "Living the Passionate Life" and many found their passion that weekend and are taking steps to make them become a reality.

I came home renewed and refreshed because of the rich fellowship and the pictures found in nature that surrounded the Traber Center.

Click here to view a slide show.

Laughter is the Best Medicine

I had the prilvilege of being the keynote speaker at Bensalem Country Club this week addressing breast cancer survivors. As I looked out at the sea of pink, I realized just how courageous these women are; in fact, they are warriors. All the ladies were laughing and having a great time looking through their gift bag of goodies.

Eleven years ago, I sat at my first breast cancer survivor luncheon and wondered just how many more times I would get to attend. It was a feeling of joy to know I had made it a year, but it was mingled with nagging fears of what lie ahead.

But laughter is what got me through (along with a lot of prayer!). Today I'm blogging on Boomer Babes about a funny thing that happened to me on errand day (yesterday). Laughter and tears cleanse the soul and can de-stress even the most difficult days.

When I heard the ripples of laughter among the cancer survivors on Monday, I knew they were well on their way to healing.

Laugher truly is the best medicine!

Life-Changing Words

I just got back from a speaking event in Hagerstown, MD and it was supposed to be a Women’s Conference, and that evening I was the keynote speaker on “Living the Passionate Life” geared just for women. And since it was Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I combined my “Touched by An Angel Story” in the new Chicken Soup book. When I got to the Four Points Sheraton, I saw men in the conference room—thinking they were there to set up. No, there were “men” in the audience and my speech was geared strictly for women. I quickly poured over my speech and wondered what I would need to change. Suddenly, my “passion” started to fade and I thought, “Lord, help me, this is not the target audience I was intending to speak to—I thought it was going to be ‘all’ women.” As I got up to the podium, I realized that all of us have to be ready in and out of season and that it’s never me speaking anyway, it’s God who speaks through me. After my speech a man came up to me and said, “My wife and mother both have breast cancer and I needed to hear what you had to say tonight!” With tears in his eyes, he shook my hand and said, “I wasn’t going to come this evening, but now I know I was meant to be here.” How many times have you been in a situation where you thought, Oh no, now what do I do? This wasn’t what I was expecting, but God worked it out for good!

When I came home, I received my author copy of the book, The One Year Life Verse Devotional by Tyndale House Publishers. My story is titled, “Passing the Tests.” My life verse is Phil. 4:13, “I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.” I didn’t have the time or the strength to re-do a speech in five minutes to be appropriate for my new target audience of “men,” so I used what I had prepared and God went before me and used it for “good.”

We will never know the impact of our words in the lives of others, and yet sometimes we are fortunate enough to get a small glimpse into lives changed by Christ through our words. That's the miracle of it all!

Angels Among Us?

Today I'm blogging on Boomer Babes about an experience I had 11 years ago that convinced me that angels keep watch over us!

My "Touched by a Coffee-Loving Angel" story is featured in the newly released book, Chicken Soup for the Coffee-Lover's Soul. It will stir you to think about the times in your life when you were protected and saved from harm's way because angels were sent to guide and protect you!

Tune into Inspire Radio to hear my interview with Carolyn Gross at 1:00 PM EST; 12:00 CST, and 10:00 AM PST on Wednesday, October 17, 2007.

If you have an angel story that you would like to share, I would love to hear it!

Blessings to you all!

High Mill Retreat - Sept. 7-9, 2007

This past weekend, I had the great pleasure of being the women's retreat speaker for High Mill Church at Beulah Beach, Ohio (right on Lake Erie). The Lord blessed our time together and knit our hearts together as one. What a blessing to minister to such a great group of women.



To view the slide show, click here.



Blessings and Joy,

Connie

Interview with Allison Bottke

As promised, I have Allison Bottke with me today discussing her new novel One Little Secret, so grab a hot cup of something, and join us as we find out some secrets behind the scenes of this boomer-lit novel with an attitude!

Allison, welcome to Living Life Passionately. I finished One Little Secret in one sitting; I just couldn’t put it down. For those of you who don’t know by now, One Little Secret is about no ordinary housewife and mom who is surprised by an opportunity to pursue her passion. It was such a fun read with unexpected humor and tears. Was this a dream come true for you and what prompted you to write this book now?

Thanks, Connie, it’s great to be here with my boomer sister. You probably already know part of the background for this book, but the original idea was for a movie screenplay. I had the cast of characters—especially the lead actress already plotted in my mind. Then, when Bethany House requested a second novel as a follow up for A Stitch in Time—my debut novel—I dusted off the unfinished screenplay and the rest is history. Of course, I had to add a few more subplots and think how each scene would play out in a movie—so there was more creativity involved—but it was all a dream come true!

I have to say, Allison, I loved your first novel, A Stitch in Time, but I fell in love with One Little Secret. There’s a clear message that resonates throughout the entire book—that we as boomer women have all felt at one time—that our dreams aren’t taken seriously! What do you have to say about that?

Yes, you’re absolutely right, Connie! So many “boomer babes” are complacent about living out their dreams. They have held them under a bushel along with their God-given talents. We have taught our children to strive to be the best they can be—right? We have told our children they can be whatever they want to be when they grow up—correct? Yet, when it comes time for us to pursue our dreams and passions, we hold back. I think the healthiest thing we can do as parents is to allow our children to see us working toward our dreams. When those we love see us fulfill life-long passions and desires of the heart, we will be taken seriously!

Allison, tell me a little bit about the author behind One Little Secret. What things do you love to do when you’re not writing and what’s the one quality you hold most dear in a friend?

As you may know, I’m quite the homebody—I love being home, working in my garden or spending time with my husband. One of my favorite pastimes is, of course, reading and watching movies. I could stay all day at the cinema—starting when the doors open and watch back-to-back movies until midnight. As for friendships, unquestionably it would have to be loyalty and confidentiality. Privacy is extremely important to me!

Allison, you and I have never “officially” met; however, my story “Living the Passionate Life,” was published in God Allows U-turns for Women. Later I blogged for one week on the U-Turns blogsite, and then you asked if I would like to take part in the “Boomer Babes Rock” blogsite. It’s been quite a ride! Can you tell me what makes you so passionate about the U-Turns ministry?

Wow, Connie, that’s a loaded question! The only reason why I’m here is because of God’s amazing mercy and grace in my life. Never in my wildest dreams did I ever believe that my life could make a U-Turn. I was 35 years old when I finally came to the end of myself and willingly gave my heart over to a relationship with Jesus. I’ve never looked back. My purpose is to share with others who are lost and searching how they can fill that God-shaped void in their life. As my friend Michelle says, “Every test is a testimony and every mess is a ministry.” My life has been filled with so many tests and messes that I have to believe that God wants me to use my testimony as a life ministry.

It’s been such a great pleasure to have you on Living Life Passionately. Is there anything else you’d like to share with my readers that I haven’t asked you about?

I guess one of the main things I’d like to ask is that your readers please pick up a copy of One Little Secret and read it—and then let me know what they thought of it. I really want to grow as a writer and obtaining reader feedback is vital for that to happen. Also vital is the word-of-mouth recommendations readers can make about books they enjoy. If your readers like One Little Secret, I pray they will share it with others—and encourage their local bookstores to carry my work. I’d also like to invite your readers to visit my web sites where they can sign up for our free monthly Dream-zine, see my Blog Tour schedule, and read the Writer’s Guidelines for the next volumes in the God Allows U-Turns series. Here are the web site URL’s: http://www.allisonbottke.com/ , http://www.godallowsuturns.com/ and http://www.boomerbabesrock.com/

However, more important than that is my final word of the day…and that is for your readers to take the risk and reach for their dreams! God has placed a desire in your heart—He has given you special gifts—and he wants you to use them. No matter how old we are—there is still time to discover God’s purpose for our life—and to make the choices that will change the story of our life.

Thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to interview here at Living Life Passionately. And be sure to check out my review of One Little Secret at Amazon.com.

Thanks so much for having me!

FREE GIFT: The first person to post a comment on Living Life Passionately wins a copy of One Little Secret, And if you’ve always wanted to win a free trip to Hollywood, be sure to check out the One Little Secret Casting Call Contest. Click here: http://www.boomerbabesrock.com/onelittlesecret_castingcall.htm

Breast Cancer Awareness

Today I'm blogging on Boomer Babes Rock about the "Pay-Off" which has absolutely nothing to do with what I'm about to say.

I am passionate about a cure for breast cancer. Why you ask? Because I'm a survivor of 11 years and I know how devastating this disease can be and what it can do to a family. So how can you help?

Today Jan Parrish made a comment to my post on Boomer Babes and I checked out her blog (best thing I ever did!). She has a great idea that combines friends, coffee, chocolate and mammograms--not necessarily in that order! To find out more about Jan's brilliant idea, log on to her site at: http://www.janparrish.blogspot.com/

Remember: October is breast cancer awareness month! My story, "Touched by a Coffee-Loving Angel" appears in the Chicken Soup for the Coffee-Lover's Soul coming out November 2007. It's really my breast cancer story rolled up into a coffee bean.

If you'd like to know more about being a breast cancer friend, check out Jan's site.

Crossing Bridges

Yesterday I crossed over a bridge…I celebrated my 52nd birthday…one I thought I would never see. After a cancer diagnosis at age 40, I have learned to celebrate the preciousness of life. While my peers lament the fact that they are growing older, more out of shape, and counting gray hairs and wrinkles, I’m profoundly thankful to be alive and pursuing my passion.

One of the things I’m most passionate about is speaking to cancer survivors because they “get it.” We understand what’s important in life, we cherish the moments in between birthdays, and we pray for many more.

Yesterday, my husband asked me what I wanted to do on my birthday and my response was to “LIVE THIS THING CALLED LIFE.” I can’t do it alone—I need God, my friends, and my family.

Read more of my thoughts on Boomer Babes Rock about “This Thing Called LIFE!”

P.S. A great birthday gift came from Dotsie Bregel, founder of NABBW (National Association of Boomer Babe Women), who reviewed my book Trading Ashes for Roses: From Pain to Passion in her monthly newsletter. You can read about it here.

Reviewed by Dotsie Bregel, www.nabbw.com. Connie carefully traipses you through her cancer storm with honesty and a deep sense of spirituality that immediately makes you want her as your role model should you ever be diagnosed with cancer. While it must have been a horrendous venture, she gently unravels the bad and the good in a way that makes you trust you'd have the courage to follow in her footsteps if ever necessary. Should you know someone with a cancer diagnosis, this is the book for both you and them. In addition to sharing her perspective of what it's like to be the patient, she genuinely offers appropriate suggestions for caregivers to understand suitable ways of treating their loved ones with a similar diagnosis. She offers an attitude that may allow them to approach the disease from a healthy perspective while telling you the best actions and words to offer them. Connie also sells lovely baskets jam packed with goodies of hope for cancer survivors and caregivers at most reasonable prices and ships anywhere in the country. Each basket contains all kinds of pleasantries that any woman will appreciate. I've already sent two and the recipients were most grateful. I highly recommend anyone with a cancer diagnosis, or a loved one with the same, to visit Connie online at www.conniepombo.com . I have a feeling you'll make a new friend.

World of Messages

Do you ever feel like you're in your own little world when you're at the computer?

Sometimes I lose all track of time--like this week--when I have deadlines pressing in from all angles. It all gets done, but this week I received a clear message about how and when I should be doing my work.

I'm blogging on Boomer Babes Rock today and I'll share the message that rocked my world and made me realize...get out from behind the computer and smell the roses!

Thoughts?

Today I'm blogging on Boomer Babes Rock about "Pen-Less Thoughts." For some reason, I can't think unless I have a pen in my hand. I've been known to grab someone else's pen to write down my thoughts and others have been known to grab my pen to write their thoughts as well (I share one such experience!).

The comptuer is great...we can get our thoughts down faster (sometimes!), but I still love the pen to paper experience. For this writer, it's essential that my thoughts first flow from pen to paper and then to my computer.

Speaking of writing, Allison Bottke is starting her International Blog Tour for ONE LITTLE SECRET and you can catch one of 40 interviews this month. Today she's on Randy Ingermanson's Blog: http://www.advancedfictionwriting.com/blog/ I'll be blogging on Monday, August 27 (right here!). Don't miss it!
If you have some "secrets" to writing your thoughts, feel free to share them.

God Encounters

Did you ever have an experience that touched your heart so deeply that you were a changed person. You look back on that day as one that changed your life? I had such an experience last week...I got a new pair of "God eyes." It was so significant that I wrote the date in my Bible. You can read about it on Boomer Babes Rock--I'm blogging there today.

I believe "God Encounters" happen for a purpose. If you have one you would like to share, I would love to hear about it!

Living Life Passionately,

Connie

Empty-Nest Vacation

Today I'm blogging on Boomer Babes Rock, so hop on over and check it out. I'm talking about the joys and sorrows of an empty-nest vacation. Yes, we have come to that phase in life where our "boys" take their own vacations and report back (via cell phone) just how great it is. There's joy and sorrow mixed together: we're not paying for it, but we're missing all the fun!

Life is bittersweet. When they're growing up, you wish they would hurry up and grow up. When they're gone, you wish they were back. So what we're left with are precious memories of vacations we took every year of their lives: trips to Acadia National Park, Yosemite, Disney World, the California Coast, Virginia Beach and Colonial Williamsburg, and my favorite--Bar Harbor. There are Creative Memory albums filled with precious photos and when I need a vacation, I pore over the pictures and re-live the God-given moments that come only once in a lifetime.

The empty-nest vacation is one of the best vacations I've been given--knowing that we left memories with our "boys" to travel the journey of life and hopefully carry on the tradtion with their families.

Living Passionately,

Connie

Chicken Soup for the Coffee Lover's Soul

I just heard that I was accepted into Chicken Soup for the Coffee-Lover's Soul.

Everyone who knows me, realizes I'm passionate about coffeee--can't wake up without it. And for someone who has more coffee stories than you can imagine, it was a thrill to have my favorite "coffee tale" accepted: "Touched by a Coffee-Loving Angel." I'm not sure if they'll be serving my special brew in heaven, but this cup of coffee literally saved my life!

Look for it in stores in the fall, although it's available for pre-order now at Amazon.com.

If you have a coffee story, you would like to share, feel free to send it to me at conniepombo@hotmail.com, and whoever has the most hillarious or heart-wrenching story, I'll be sure to send you an autographed copy when it's available.

Passionately yours,

Connie

Secret Garden

Today I'm blogging on Boomer Babes Rock about my "secret" place. About four years ago, I read about the "Best Kept Secret in Lancaster County," and realized it was just down the street from where I live. From the months of June-September on Wednesdays from 1-7 p.m. the Conestoga House is open to the public. The Steinman Sisters have lovingly restored the mansion and the gardens.


I'm passionate about all things natural and green, so this is my respite. It serves two purposes, it gets me out from behind my computer and enjoying the beauty of nature. And then when hubby gets off from work, he meets me there for a light picnic at one of the designated areas. We have date night and quiet time together in the lush background of tropical gardens and waterfalls.

Sometimes the best places to visit are in your backyard. I urge you to search out what's available in your city; you just might be surprised. There might be a secret garden waiting for you.


Living Passionately,




Connie

No Longer a Stranger

Today I'm blogging on Boomer Babes Rock about the grandmother I never knew. Recently some lost letters emerged that gave me a glimpse into the life of the woman that has remained a mystery for most of my adult life.

I'm the family historian and love collecting and saving cards, letters, and photos. I was the original scrapbooker before Creative Memories came along. I have literally hundreds of albums and continue to collect more. It's one of the things I'm most passionate about.

Our hectic 21st century living precludes us from preserving the past because we're just too busy. But one day, our children and our grandchildren will want to know what we did, what our passions were, what books we read, and how we spent our days.

Sure, we now have "blogging" which has pretty much taken the place of the journal and writing letters, but there's nothing like feeling and touching a letter--see the handwriting and looking at the stamp (it makes it more real).

If you've been putting off writing a letter to someone you love, write it today! What greater day than the Fourth of July!

Do you have to Suffer to Be Beautiful?

Growing up I heard the phrase a lot from my mom, "You have to suffer to be beautiful." Well, I do remember placing ice cubes on my eyebrows the first time I plucked them and thinking, Why would anyone deliberately do that?

I'm passionate about a lot of things, but plucking my eyebrows just isn't one of them and neither is curling my eyelashes! Today I'm blogging on "Boomer Babes Rock" about my recent experience with the eyelash curler that opened my eyes to suffering in a new way!

Painful circumstances always teach us a valuable lesson and most of us want to hide from pain--I know I do! But as I reflect on my life, there wasn't a lot of growing spiritually when things were going smoothly. In fact, just the opposite happened--I digressed.

The most passionate people I know have suffered some great tragedy, pain or loss. Some have experienced more than their share. It's not the degree of pain, it's what we have learned from the experience that makes the difference.

God has allowed some great suffering to occur in my life, but the beauty I see comes from within--a spritual awakening to what's truly important in life.

So my mom really was right, "You have to suffer to be beautiful!"

Meet the Dream Team!

Today I'm blogging on Boomer Babes Rock...about my passion for dirt biking that led to some undesired results. Sometimes this 50-something "babe" doesn't realize she isn't 20 anymore!

Thankfully...we learn from our experiences and we don't repeat them again (most of the time!), and I plan to stay closer to the ground in the upcoming months.

This experience allowed me to realize that I probably won't be doing #27 on my passionate to-do list (parachuting out of an airplane) for quite some time.

That's okay...there are a lot of other things for this "boomer babe" to do that don't require lifting too far off the earth. And if I happen to drift...there's always the dream team in the wings to put me back together again!

Living Life Passionately (with both arms!),

Connie

101 Uses for Things!

I'm always amazed---shocked really--at the multiple uses for "one" thing--like baking soda and Coke. Did you realize the beverage "Coke" can clean your engine, polish the chrome on your car, clean your toilets, and who knows what else?

Read about more startling discoveries on Boomer Babes Rock...I'm blogging there today. Let me know what "double-duty" uses you've come up with and which ones you're most "passioante" about. The first one to respond to this blog, will receive one of my favorite "products." Shhh...it's a surprise!

"The Wind Beneath My Wings"

I'm posting on Boomer Babes Rock today, so check it out! I'm revealing something about myself I've never told anyone except my husband and my mom (watch out!).

And because I've been "tagged" by my dear friend, Susan Kelly Skitt, I'm also revealing a few more things about me which we will call: 7 Random "Me-Me" Facts!

Unfortunately, I lost the list (I wrote them on a napkin at Starbucks), so this is the new and revised version.

1. I can "fly." Fly on over to Boomer Babes to read the rest of the story!

2. Japanese is my third language (actually fourth!). The first three and half years of my life were spent in Japan and so it was my "play" language. Strangely enough, it comes back to me in "song," like "London Bridges Falling Down." If you want the Japanese version, feel free to e-mail me!

3. I love to take "midnight" walks (around our neighborhood)! I'm a night owl, so I love the stillness and quiet, the moon, the stars, and now the "June" bugs!

4. My favorite flavor of popsicle is "banana." They are hard to find, but when I find them, I buy them in bulk!

5. The smell of the earth after the rain...I guess that's why I love waterfalls too!

6. My dad was in the Air Force for 15 years and so that makes me an Air Force Brat. I never liked that term, but I was fortunate to have lived in many cultures in my lifetime (a world traveler at a young age!).

7. I won a spelling bee in fifth grade (before the days of spell check!).

Okay, now watch out...you're next!

Blessings,

Connie

What matters--really?

On Sunday I spoke at Grace Baptist Church in Millersville in the morning service! I felt right at home because while growing up I attended Sunnymead Baptist Church in Southern California. It was there that I received Jesus as my Savior at the tender age of five. So many warm and precious memories flooded my heart as I spoke. I thought about how differently my life is now...I was once a "shy" little girl (ask my family?). I almost didn't graduate from Bible College because I didn't take Speech 101 and was willing not to graduate rather than take the course. So where did I end up? I had to take "Homiletics" (with a bunch of preacher boys--I was the only girl in the class!). That taught me to get over my fear really fast--sink or swim! In fact, they changed the entire structure of the program because of me (I was to give "sermonettes").

As I spoke on Sunday about "Taking Off Our Masks: Developing Christ-Centered Relationships," a woman came up to me afterwards and said, "What you said was so meaningful...we needed to hear your message." I hugged her and said, "Thank you, but it wasn't me...it was God speaking through me."

Today I'm blogging on Boomer Babes Rock (jump on over and check it out!). I share how walking through the local cemetery keeps my life in focus because my desire is to always point others back to God. I may be the writer, speaker, author for a short time on this earth, but my "heavenly" purpose is to always points others to the "Jesus" I found when I was five years old in a little Baptist Church in Southern California.

What really matters on this earth is allowing others to see "Jesus" in me and that's what I'm really passionate about!

Taking Ten Minutes

The backyard is my favorite place, but more so lately with limited mobility. To get you caught up to speed: While visiting my family in California I went dirt bike riding (not on my passionate to-do list) and a tree jumped out in front of me! A torn rotator cuff—among other things—was the end result. I'm in physical therapy twice a week, which has slowed me down quite a bit...something I needed.


But I'm back to taking pictures and that is my passion, something I discovered through my tragedy, pain and loss with cancer eleven years ago. Now I'm re-learning what I've always known...whatever you are going through in the "pain" department it opens your eyes to things you might have missed along the way! This sunset started out with the clouds rolled back as a scroll...like one of my favorite hymns. So guess what? I sang the sunset down! And because I was patient…I got this picture. Oh, I’m glad I waited 10 minutes!

"Sandcastles"

I just returned from California—the Bay Area—where my family lives. And I got to return to one of my favorite places—Santa Cruz. After a lovely meal at the famed Shadowbrook Restaurant (a must for anyone visiting Capitola), we walked along the beach—watching beachcombers, jugglers, children building sandcastles, and surfers gracefully riding the waves of the Pacific Ocean.

This picture caught my eye and tears glistened on my sunburned cheeks as I remembered my childhood in Southern California—countless hours on the beach with my sister, Mom and Dad. Now that I can count the age spots on my face, I probably would have used more sunscreen (but what did we know back then!). It was a blissful time, frolicking in the sand, jumping waves and allowing them to wash over me—threatening to carry me away. I, too, built sandcastles and watched the ocean swallow them up. Precious memories, made more special, because for the first time in eighteen years I spent Easter with my family. We all went to church together (taking up an entire row!), had an Easter egg hunt in the front yard, and shopped until we dropped. But the best part was spending time with each other—talking about the things that really mattered.

One of my favorite times was spent looking at lost treasure (not in the sand), but in the tiny back room in the garage where all my memorabilia lay: old love letters, photos from high school, yearbook albums, birthday cards, books from high school (who could forget reading Crime and Punishment from Sophomore English?), diplomas, reports cards (one from Miss Wheeler in third grade: "Connie is an excellent creative writer"). Umm . . . .

I took what was most important and left the rest. My mom is going to send me the box and I look forward to poring through all the treasure once again (cross-legged on the floor), and re-living memories of when there was just the four of us at 5018 Concord Blvd. in Concord, California (before baby brother, David, arrived!). But that's another story!

To be reminded of what's really important was so refreshing: the love of family and friends, the deep love that God has for all of us, and memories that can't be washed away like sandcastles on the beach.

Ready for Spring?

Spring has arrived--almost! Today it was 58 degrees and almost melted the two glaciers in our backyard. Green grass is starting to perk up and I saw some tiny yellow flowers as I took a 5-mile walk/jog/run today. Maybe they were weeds, but who cares? It was something other than "snow." This has been a long winter and I'm passionate about spring (new birth) that I can't wait for the daffodils and tulips to emerge from the cold, hard earth. Lately, I've been filling the house with fresh flowers--like the roses you see in this picture--just to remind me that there is a cycle to life: fall, winter, spring, and summer. Some of the seasons last longer than expected--like this winter.

To help me get in the mood faster, I'll be flying to California to visit my family for Easter. A much welcome change (the trees are in full bloom there!). If I need to, I'll bring my glue gun and put the blossoms back on the trees while I'm there.

If you're passionate about a certain season, let me hear about it (but please don't say "winter")!

Living Life Passionately,

Connie

Author, Trading Ashes for Roses

Living Outside the Box

This is our kitten's favorite place—an empty water container box. Several times now I've tried to throw it away, and she "cries" until I bring it back (three times now!). She loves this space—comfortable inside—looking out at the world. Sometimes she even pounces on it and it squishes to a flat piece of paper and then she "cries" some more until I build it back up to the way it was before. I'm not sure if she will "outgrow" it or if it's part of our new decor, "Bianca" style.

But isn't that they way we are? Take us out of our familiar surroundings and we feel unsettled. Some of us flourish in an environment that's new, but others of us flounder—"take me back to my box!" But think for a moment what your life would be like if you were forced to stay inside your “box”? There would be no growth, no stretch of the imagination, and worst of all, how would your passions survive?

Several years ago, I ventured outside my box. Comfortable in the medical field for years, I was like Bianca—it was safe. It was a sure thing: retirement with benefits, great pay, steady hours, and guaranteed work!

After living 10 years with a cancer diagnosis, I realize there's no guarantee of tomorrow—I just have "today." And I consciously choose to "live outside the box." Was it risky? Absolutely yes! Would I change anything? Are you kidding?! I have the best of both worlds: I can still use my medical knowledge to write articles for medical magazines and journals and best of all, I am “living” my passion daily—speaking and writing!

Ask God what it would take for you to live outside "your" box?

God's Coffee!

A dear friend of mine, Judy Dippel, from the CelebrateMoms team sent this great analogy about coffee. Pour a cup of coffee and "ponder" this thought:

A group of alumni, highly established in their
careers, got together to visit their old university
professor. Conversation soon turned into complaints
about stress in work and life.

Offering his guests coffee, the professor went to the
kitchen and returned with a large pot of coffee and an
assortment of cups - porcelain, plastic,glass,crystal,
some plain looking, some expensive, some exquisite -
telling them to help themselves to the coffee.
When all the students had a cup of coffee in hand, the
professor said: "If you noticed, all the nice looking
expensive cups were taken up, leaving behind the plain
and cheap ones. While it is normal for you to want
only the best for yourselves, that is the source of
your problems and stress.

Be assured that the cup itself adds no quality to the
coffee. In most cases it is just more expensive and in
some cases even hides what we drink. What all of you
really wanted was coffe e, not the cup, but you
consciously went for the best cups... And then you
began eyeing each other's cups.

Now consider this: Life is the coffee; the jobs, money
and position in society are the cups. They are just
tools to hold and contain Life, and the type of cup we
have does not define, nor change the quality of Life
we live.

Sometimes, by concentrating only on the cup, we fail
to enjoy the coffee God has provided us." God brews
the coffee, not the cups.......... Enjoy your coffee!

The happiest people don't have the best of everything.
They just make the best of everything.

Live simply. Love generously. Care deeply. Speak
kindly. Leave the rest to God.

Living Life Passionately,


Connie Pombo

Visit my post today at Boomer Babes Rock with Allison Bottke!

A Portrait in the Sky!

The other night I was coming home and saw this beautiful sight: layers of sky, moon, and a landscape from the "Tuscan Sun." I'm passionate about taking pictures, which is why I "always" keep a disposable camera in the glove compartment of the car. I swerved off the side of the road, ran into a newly manured field to take this shot. (I later had to throw those shoes away, but it was worth it!) I am a sunset watcher only because I don't see the sun "rise" that often, but now I'm a moon watcher!

Living Life Passionately,

Connie

Where is this beach?

Here's a little Christmas in July for you! If you can name this beach, I will send you a book bundle giveaway, including: Conversations on Faith, God Allows U-Turns for Women, and Trading Ashes for Roses!

Hurry! Christmas is just around the corner. (Yes, you may enlarge it to get the "total" picture!)

Living Passionately,


Connie Pombo
Author, Speaker, Photographer?

A Christmas Carol?

Today I went to my favorite Bible Bookstore and was saddened to see that it was going out of business. It's always bittersweet, isn't it? You get terrific bargains, but at the same time you realize that people will be looking for jobs and the mega-chain store buying online and off is taking over the "little" stores.

As I browsed through the aisles--some half empty--I felt sick inside. I even saw my book, Trading Ashes for Roses: From Pain to Passion at half off. It's always strange for me to see my book in the bookstore, mainly because I haven't gotten used to my "author" title yet. I just think of myself as someone who is passionate about writing.

I still had a few people to buy for on my Christmas list, so I checked out the music section of CD's--most of them had been picked over. But I found one by Sandi Patty--it was a sound track for singers. Okay, I'm not a singer, but I am asked a lot if I sing. I think the world has the notion that if you're a speaker/author, obviously you must be able to sing too, right? Wrong!

Singing has never been on my passionate to-do list. In fact, it's never made it to the top 27. But I have to say, I bought the CD and listened to all five sound tracks (one with vocals, one without, and of course Sandi Patty singing the "real" version of "It is Well with My Soul." It's one of my most favorite hymns. Now mind you, I have acute laryngitis and acute bronchitis, so all I could do was lip-sync. It didn't seem too hard until I really tried to sing (I don't suggest it with laryngitis). And then I thought, I just might be able to do this.

I was actually surprised to find out that "singing" is not listed under the top 10 fears of most people--speaking in public is still #1, so it may not be that bad afterall. Guess what my new passion for the New Year is going to be?

Fear is what holds back most of us from living out our passions and who knows, I just might become passionate about singing. And then when meeting planners call and ask if I sing, I can say, "Yes, I'm actually passionate about it!"

Speaking of passion and adventure, check out my dear author friend Susan Kelly Skitt's new blogsite at Living Life's Adventure.

Now that I'm back in the blogging rhythm, you'll be hearing more from me so stay tuned.

Living Passionately,


Connie Pombo
Author, Speaker, "Singer"?

More Wildflowers

I call this photo "Tuscany in My Garden": the blues, yellows, and the gorgeous sunflower right smack dab in the middle--like the leaning Tower of Pisa--make me want to jump on an airplane right now and head for Italy!

This has been a great summer for flowers and discovering a new passion--gardening. My neighbor still hangs her head over the fence and says, "I don't believe those came from a packet of seeds!" But soon the landscape will be covered with snow and a different kind of beauty will erupt. Until then I'll take my flowers! (Oh, did I mention I use Miracle Grow!).

Let me hear about your passionate gardening tips; I'm still new at this!

Living Life Passionately,


Connie

Savoring Joy!

These are my "wildflowers" that greet me each morning! How can I find such joy in a $1.00 packet of seeds that continually paint the landscape of my backyard with a myraid of colors?

For the last ten years I have practiced the "art" of savoring the present moment--countless positive experiences: awe at a brilliant sunset, luxuriating in a Jacuzzi, smelling the earth after a summer's rain, basking in the laughter of children playing, and watching my "garden" grow! How is it possible? I have to admit--extroverts, optimists and "Sanguine" types--like myself--have a much easier time than others (it comes naturally to us). But we can all learn to enhance our ability to enjoy our everyday lives more fully and to "live" in the present moment. But unfortunately most of us are just too busy to notice; the "white" noise of life distracts us from living passionately.

Next time you pass by a field of wildflowers: stop and take a mental photograph. Consciously make note of the features you want to remember later! I have several "mental" photographs I pull out often (even before I was interested in photography). Although it's nice to have a "tangible" picture; it's not necessary. One such mental photograph is of Dardinel's Lake in the Sierra's (backpacking in California--the year 1974). We made cheesecake in the glacial snow and watched the chipmunks eat it (not our idea, but theirs!). The glacier was mirrored in the lake and created an upside portrait--forever etched in my memory. I will never lose that photograph. I savor the joy of it often!

Living Life Passionately,


Connie

Passionate about Montreal!

No visit to Montreal would be complete without a visit to the Basilica of Notre Dame. This magnificent castle in the sky can be seen from almost any location in the city. And if you're planning a wedding, it can be rented for a mere $10,000 a day (ask Celine Dion).




The basilica inside is breathtaking (pictures cannot do it justice!), and at night a sound and light show: "And then there was Light," which highlights all the features and heritage of this artistic masterpiece. Don't forget the flower vendors across the street with a cascading fountain of every conceivable variety and color.




Mark Twain said, "This is the first time I was ever in a city where you couldn't throw a brick without breaking a church window. Yet I was told you are going to build one more . . ." It can't be argued that this is a city of churches, but if I had to pick just one to visit: Notre Dame would be it!

I'm passionate about stained-glass windows and the ones inside the basilica won't dissapoint you. Be prepared to wait in line and spend a couple of hours (we're glad we did!). Afterwards wander the sidestreets for some dining "al fresco" at one of the charming cafes.



Auvoir!

Living Life Passionately,


Connie

Paris without the Jet Lag!

The best way to see Montreal is via a carriage ride through "Vieux Montreal," and ask for "Slim" (aka Mark). He's had the likes of DiNiro, DiCaprio, Madonna and Oko Yono in his carriage. Instead of looking at the great architecture of this picturesque city, I found myself enthralled by the tales of Slim's celebrity adventures! The clip-clop of the horse-drawn carriage on the cobblestone streets with the bells of Notre Dame echoing throughout the city--with an occasional passer-by shouting "Bonjour,"--I felt as if I were in "Paris" without the jet lag!

Did you realize more "European" films are filmed here than in LA? Why? Because it costs less to take an entire film crew to Montreal than to close off one street in LA for an hour! There are no highwires in Old Montreal, and gas street lanterns give the feel of Europe at a fraction of the cost. Such films as "The Score"; "Ghostbusters"; "The Avaiator," and get this--the steps of "Law and Order" have been filmed here. Can you tell I was soaking in the entire flavor and history of this rare and unique gem of a city!



Don't miss Place Jacques-Cartier on the slope to the waterfront. Here you will find flower markets, cafes, and Place Royale - the city's oldest public square which dates back to 1657. Side streets are filled with artistans at work with something for everyone with prices to fit any budget.



This is absolutely a photographer's paradise! I caught this window while sipping cafe au lait with a "real" croissant (located along Place Jacques-Cartier). Montreal is charming by day and enchanting by night! You will want to return--like me--to taste more of this decidedly French city on the North American Continent.

Now I'm passionate about "all things" French, and managed to pick up enough words to make me really dangerous! However, you're safe with: bonjour, bonsoir, and merci!

Living Life Passionately!


Connie

More on my trip tomorrow! Until then "Auvoir"!

"Oh, Canada!"

If you missed me this week, I've been blogging on God Allows U-Turns. Visit www.godallowsuturns.com to catch up on "Living the Passionate Life!"

Tomorrow, very early, we leave for Canada: Montreal and Quebec City! I've made my new passionate to-do list and I'm checking it twice!! Be prepared for a photo journal when I return. I've got lots of superb reading to take along with me (hubby is driving this time).

Thanks for all who sent me their passionate stories this week via e-mail. I'll respond when I return.


Living Passionately,


Connie

Bellagio

This picture was taken in 1997 when I first discovered my passion for photography: a moment caught in time. That time, that place, that person will never be the same again. But this photo is forever engraved in my mind! At any moment of the day I can close my eyes and see the snow capped alps of Switzerland, the palm trees, and the sapphire of lakes--Lake Como. Walking through the streets with buildings flag-bedecked, geraniums rustling from every window, bougainvillea veiling the staircases--I knew heaven had to be close by! As I walked into the gardens of Villa Serbelloni, once designed to cradle dukes and duchesses in high luxury, is now the haven for the discreetly wealthy. I, of course, am not! But for one moment in time, I was transported to a time and place that serves as a reminder of what "heaven on earth" looks like. Is it any wonder that the composer Verdi chose to compose "La Traviata" in Cadenabbia across from Bellagio--what a magnificent view he had!

You can see why my love for Italy and the Italian language lends itself to "Living Life Passionately!"

Ci vediamo domani! Ciao tutti!

Connie

Guest Blogger

The week of July 3-9, I will be a guest blogger on Allison Bottke's U-Turns website. Allison is the the creator of the U-Turn series and in March, the book was released, volume 5 of the series: God Allows U-Turns for Women: The Chocies We Make Change the Story of Our Life. "Living the Passionate Life!" is my contribution to the book, and I hope you will join me next week. An added bonus, each time you make a comment to one of the posts, your name will be added to a drawing at the end of each month. Hope to hear from you next week.

Living Life Passionately,


Connie