 Happy spring Ya'll! I know, it's not springtime yet, but it will be shortly. Since I'm not a cold-weather person warm weather puts a smile on my face. However, I know each season has a reason. I've also lived long enough to learn that peace of mind can only come from within. On that note I'd like to share a flash fiction about the season. Spring Brings a Smile Lisa rests on a bench at Gold Memorial and stares at a grass-covered indention. New flowers peep out and decorate the area. Purple buds adorn Lilac trees. In the distance, birds sing their melody. A sign of a changing season, spring was here. Lisa didn’t care. “A loved one.” An older man’s voice cracks with age and interrupts her solitude. “Yes, very much loved.” Lisa sighs at the intrusion and continues. “Rob was my first love. We only had a few years together.” “I understand. My Polly…” He points to the left. “My wife and soul-mate for better on of forty years.” She glances toward the elderly man, kindness shows in his eyes. “It must be hard to have someone around for that long, and lose them.” “We had good times. Thanks to the Lord we were happy.” “If God wants us to be happy why take away our loved ones?” Anger pricks Lisa’s comment. "The Lord does want us to be content, but everyone has to face loss.” The white-haired man’s voice softens. “A time to weep and a time to laugh.” “I don't want to accept that.” Lisa stands. “Would Rob want you to be bitter and turn away from the world?” “No, I guess not.” She speaks as a memory of Rob asking her to promise nothing would take away her beautiful smile, plays on her conscience. The old man pushes up from the bench, “Springtime is for fresh beginnings and brings unmarked life. In the winter, things are dead, then comes the spring, and with it a new start. We can't go back. Nevertheless, we’ll forever remember the winters. In our hearts we hold on to love and memories, but we must find peace.” Lisa felt his weathered hand gently touch her arm. “By going on we honor the ones we’ve lost. It’s a way to show respect for what they represented.” She stared at a Dandelion as the man’s hand slips from her shoulder. When Lisa raises her head, he is gone. Her eyes catch sight of a young woman walking by. “Excuse me, where did the older man with snow white hair go?” “I don't believe anyone else has been on this path for at least an hour.” The young woman doubtfully responds “Thanks.” Quickly, Lisa rushes to her car. She sits in the vehicle and takes one last look at the spot she cherishes and smiles. At that moment she senses a soothing voice. That’s the smile I fell in love with. The End I wish everyone a wonderful Springtime, graced with many blessings.
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 Valentine’s Day is a time to acknowledge those who are important. Whether a friend, family member, a spouse or other love. Yes, Valentine’s is a wonderful time to show we care. For me, It seems every year as I go about recognizing the people in my life that make me smile. I can’t help but to mentally put Jesus Christ at the top of my list. After all, there is no other love that one can have than to lay down a life for us. Jesus is the Alpha and the Omega of endless love.  With gratitude that can never be repaid I say, “Jesus, thank you for loving us and forgiving sins. Thank you for being the highest example of love that there is.” Yes, every Valentine’s Day Jesus Christ gives the biggest love heart of them all. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16 “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13  Happy Valentine's Day everyone. May God bless you with endless love
The glad tidings of Christmas are over and the winter blues will try to take its place. I often wonder if “winter Blues” is the correct term. Maybe, we’re just tired from the holiday preparations.
Perhaps, we’re apprehensive because we know cold weather and staying inside will be our focus for the next few months. Whatever it is, we all get a bit dreary this time of the year and there is nothing wrong with that. Emotions are what make us human. Still, most of us are reaching for better lifestyles. With that in mind I’d like to list a few things to help sway the doldrums. Exercise- Bundle up and go for a walk. Even a short stroll in the yard will improve your outlook. Motivate yourself- Something simple like painting a room a calming color or beautifying your nails will put a smile on your face. A nice fragrant candle encourages our senses and eases the ho-hums Nurture the spirit-Curling up in a comfy chair with a good book or writing in a journal can help you shake the blues, especially if the cozy chair is next a sunny window. 
Let us not forget to read our Bible. The Holy words of promise do wonders for our soul.
Some nice verses are: “My soul, wait thou only upon God; For my expectation is from him. He only is my rock and my salvation: He is my defense; I shall not be moved. In God is my salvation and my glory: The rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God. Trust in him at all times; ye people, Pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah.” Psalm 62:5-8 KJV “But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” Isaiah 40:31 (KJV) “The LORD is good unto them that wait for him, To the soul that seeketh him.” Lamentations 3:25 (KJV) “Wait on the LORD: Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.” Psalm 27:14 (KJV)
What are some of the things you do to keep a cherry outlook, on a cold winter day?
 Recently, I was email chatting with a friend. She mentioned things she’d planned to accomplish. I responded with, “I can't seem to muster up much for today. I'm just a little down and don't know why. But, I won't stay down. I’ll pout to the Lord, and then I’ll feel bad because I have much to be grateful for.” I think that no matter where we are in life we can always find a reason to be grateful. Certainly, Christmas is a wondrous time of the year filled with hope for things to come. And… Sometimes, a touch of sadness will glaze our holiday. Why? We’ve all shared things that will try to color our holiday joy a deep blue.  Grief is a feeling we’ve all shared. It can creep up on us, especially during the holiday season. All any of us can do is remember that our loved one would want us to be happy. Financial situations snag our joy and make it difficult to enjoy Christmas. We live in a world revolved around buying things, so money plays an important part during the holiday. In those situations all we can do is be creative with gift giving. Often the best gifts are the cheapest. Also, the gifts created with love turn out to be the most memorable. There are many more misfortunes I could include that try to hang a dark cloud over Christmas. Still, in everything we’ve been through, there is always a bright star. Yes, indeed, the reason for the season isn't a gift or the fact that we feel alone sometimes, but it's hope in a brighter tomorrow. I’m not talking about the day after Christmas. I’m highlighting our path to eternity. Celebrating Jesus and knowing that with Him, no matter the path we walk, God will make a way. Plus, we have the added bonus that Jesus provides the way for us to join Him in Heaven one day.  My prayers go out to everyone this Christmas season:
To people who battle grief or financial problems, to parents of displaced children and to anyone who can’t seem to shake bitterness from their lives. May God show each of you a new light, hope for tomorrow and unwavering faith.  Most people enjoy fall or autumn, whichever you prefer to call it. This time of the year is beautiful, with a colorful crispness that brings a smile to most everyone's face. This time of the year certainly makes me smile. It ushers in the holiday season, good times and tasty food. There’s something wonderful about spiced pumpkin pie and custards. Nothing seems to taste better than hot apple cider on a chilly fall evening. In autumn the leaves change color and shed, making way for a new growth. I think we should be more like the trees in autumn, let go of the old to make a way for a new and improved outlook. We’re all a work in progress. Just like leaves that change, we must change too and rid ourselves of the negative junk that tries to steal our serenity. I'll admit, at times it's difficult to see beyond the gloom, but there's a hope that lies within us and thank goodness we can find comfort and change with God. One of my favorites in the Bible is Ecclesiastes 3:1-22 – ‘To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:’ Sometimes we are responsible for our seasons, so let’s make this our season to be the best version of ourselves we can be. What do you like best about autumn? This summer seems like a well-deserved vacation. After a year of shut-ins and no freedom to travel, many are enjoying vacations and weekend getaways. We all have our “idea” of the perfect getaway. For some, it’s the mountains or beaches. Others like city life with theaters, museums and shopping. Vacations in the country strike many as the only way to unwind. I'm fortunate to live in the middle of North Carolina where the beach or mountains is only three hours away. I enjoy the beach with its salty air, crashing waves, and the call of the seagulls.
The mountains also hit the top of my list. No matter what time of the year, the rolling hills call. The way the mountains flaunt beautiful bunches of trees in various greens remind me there is a bigger purpose than what I see.
Above are a few wonderful reminders that when all the negativity and bickering is silenced, we live in a beautiful world. The longing to be in a quiet place has always been my birthmark. Back in 2011 with my debut novel, it was apparent that small towns, which offered a simpler way to enjoy God’s beautiful world called to me. My character (Samantha) escaped the big city to a little fishing town. Though she didn’t know God had a hand in it the path was what she needed. Asheville Hearts was inspired by Asheville NC and the heritage in that region. Asheville isn’t a small town but many quaint places surround the area.
Is there a special place you enjoy visiting in the summertime?
 The weather is warm, birds are singing. Nature is hosting a celebration. When I think of celebrations my mind immediately goes to birthdays. There are many ways to observe a birthday. Young people enjoy parties; older folks often like to get-together with a few friends, at a restaurant. I know some who prefer staying home and quietly acknowledging their birthdays. Birthday facts August is the most celebrate month for birthdays. Two billion Birthday cards are sent each year in the U.S. The song "Happy Birthday” is from "Good Morning to you lyrics,” written by Mildred Hill and Dr. Patty hill in 1893. A trend in the 19th centuries was to have all your teeth removed and replaced with a set of dentures on your 21st birthday to prevent dental treatment later in life.  It doesn’t matter how you commemorate your birthday. What matters are the plans you make for the coming year ahead. God designed us to be born in the month that we celebrate. Even if you’re a person who doesn’t celebrate you’re birthday, rest assure, God recognizes you’re special. Each unique month holds a particular meaning and a dedicated color especially for you. Did you know the Bible mentions the colors that represent each month? God's Holy Word also teaches us the spiritual meaning of each birthstone.  The spiritual meaning of birthstones, and their colors, hold an insight to your aspirations and believing in all God has in store for you. Bonus; Flowers and meanings.  My favorite season is summertime. Yes, I enjoy hot weather. The warm season energizes me and is a reminder of the way the Lord refreshes us during our seasons. All of us go through seasons. Springtime brings growth as the flowers and trees blossom. The weather turns warm; nature arises with new life and possibilities. In life, we go through spring seasons where we sow and flourish. This is the season for careers, residences and relationships. It seems that behind every corner there is hope. In the summer, nature comes to its full potential. The days are longer with the promise of good things to come. This is the sowing time. What we do, who we are and how we treat others in our summer season becomes our legacy. In autumn, the days become shorter. The leaves change color and fall from the trees. All of nature prepares for colder weather. In our autumn season, we might reap some of the things sowed in earlier years. We’ll ponder the past, praise the blessings and hopefully learn from our mistakes. In winter, the weather is cold, sometimes with snow and ice. The days are shorter and nights are longer. Nature is dormant without growth. People in their winter season tend to live a simpler life. They stay inside more and require less worldly trappings. Life’s winter season maybe the last of the seasons, but for many natures shines with more beauty. The past is accepted and people move forward with a milder outlook. There is no skipping the seasons. All we can do is recognize the times we’re in, and make them the best we can. I’m in my autumn years, I realize my 'winter season' is around the corner. As I approach that time of life, I’m grateful and blessed. Many years ago, I accepted the Lord into my seasons. I now look beyond my earthly times, toward a joyous eternity. No matter who you are, know you’re strong. Hold onto faith and make the season you’re in a time for blessings.  To celebrate my autumn years I’m writing a series based on older characters that have a zest for life in a small southern town. ‘Southern Joy,’ is book1 of Autumn Years.  Robin Young has worked for one of the largest audit and assurance firms’ in Ohio for thirty years. Her career has left little time for relationships. After receiving an urgent call from her sister’s neighbor, she hurries to the small town of Fairhope, Alabama.
The ambiance of Alabama has Robin contemplating life and meeting Tucker Ray, the quintessential “good ole boy” of the south, adds to the charm. Her stay in Fairhope uncovers a secret, and a chance for love, but the Buckeye state is where she belongs. Can Robin accept change and unravel matters of the heart? https://www.amazon.com/Southern-Joy-Autumn-Years-Book-ebook/dp/B08L14KBLL/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=Southern+joy+mary+L+ball&qid=1616028996&s=books&sr=1-1  In today’s times, nothing is more important than having faith. It carries everyone through difficult situations and gives hope for a better tomorrow. People use the word faith all the time. We hear, "keep the faith. Walk in faith. Have faith." Really, what is faith? Faith has several meanings. It’s a complete trust or a confidence in someone or something. A belief in God based on spiritual awareness. A firmly held theory built from science or principles. Non-believers may not recognize their belief system as faith, but they put trust in their cars to carry them back and forth or have confidence that with the flip of a switch the lights will come on. People faithfully accept the normality of life without a question. This is a tangible faith  Christians have faith in God by heeding to the teachings of Jesus Christ and believing on God's promises. The faith provided from the Holy Word will lead 'whosoever' to a better destination. The Bible is a wonderful source for providing serenity in this upside-down world. Many scriptures open a window of understanding to help in today’s circumstances. Even a simple verse can guide, if faith is applied. What’s your definition of faith? 
Do we really understand how to take advantage of all that God’s word offers? Moments with God’s Word highlights a few of the least quoted verses in the Bible. These verses are life changing! The Holy Scriptures can make a difference in our lives and prevent the adversary from stealing our blessings. Gather insight as to how to apply Scriptures to everyday problems. Discover ways to prevent Satan from interfering with the power that Christ gives us. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MG1MSRK/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i16 It’s time for everyone to show a little love. Valentine’s Day isn’t only for romantic love. It’s also a day to send admiration to our families and friends.  Love isn’t lust. Nor is it a fleeting emotional feeling. The Bible says, ‘Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.’ John 15:13(KJV) God teaches us about real love and showed His love on the cross. He made a way for 'whosoever' to overcome sin. Human love should be about showing respect and putting the other person first. I’m a KJV Bible reader, but in my novels I use the NIV for references. I especially like 1 Corinthians 13: 4-8, from the NIV Bible.  A few Valentine’s Day facts. Latin’s know Valentine's Day as día del amor y la amistad (day of love and friendship). Couples exchange flowers and chocolates, but the holiday's main focus is showing gratitude to friends. In Japan, it's customary for women to give sweets to the men. St. Valentine wasn't just one person. According to History.com, two men named Valentine inspired the holiday. One Valentine was a priest in third century Rome. In the 1300s, Valentine’s Day officially became the holiday associated with love. Cupid’s roots are in Greek mythology. The cute cherub that appears on Valentine's Day cards and candy boxes, often holding a bow and arrow become a common symbol for holiday patented after a 700 B.C., Greek god of love, Eros. He was said to be handsome, immortal and held the power to make people fall in love. In the 4th century Romans adopted Eros into the image of a cute little boy with a bow and arrow and called him "Cupid." By the 19th century, Cupid and Valentine’s Day intertwined. History.com, reports the oldest Valentine card dates to 1415 when a French medieval duke named Charles, wrote a poem to his wife. One of the lines in the poem says, "I am already sick of love, my very gentle Valentine." The tradition of Valentine's Day flowers dates to the 17th century when King Charles II of Sweden learned the "language of flowers," (associating different flowers with specific meanings). Red roses symbolize a deep love. Enjoy your Valentine’s Day and send a smile to someone in need. February is a good time for the novel, Sparks of Love. I hope you’ll enjoy this romantic suspense.  Misjudged and accused, Lynette Cunningham walks away from God and everything she loves.
Ten years later, a phone call from father offers hope when he announces he may have a clue to the unsolved crime that forced her to run. She’s scared, but encouraged. Maybe this will clear her name from slander in her small North Carolina hometown. Before Lynette returns tragedy strikes. A fire destroys her childhood home and kills her father. While she sorts through the ruins and hopes to find the clue, Lynette meets the new pastor, Price Fletcher. She must face the two things that scare her most. The past and a man of God. The past wants to stay buried. Will Lynette stay alive long enough to prove her innocence and accept the love that is offered? https://www.christianbook.com/sparks-of-love-ebook/mary-ball/9781943104680/pd/94014EB?product_redirect=1&search_term=sparks%20of%20love%20&Ntt=94014EB&item_code=&ps_exit=PRODUCT&Ntk=keywords&event=ESRCP https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01M1NFGF7/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i15 |
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