A Christmas Message From Author Tricia Goyer (and Giveaway!)

I usually do not like to post anything 'forwarded' but this is the exception to the rule: I not only recently discovered this author (Thanks to Sarah Sundin!) but I have greatly enjoyed reading her work! So far I have indulged in 3 of her books, (Arms of Deliverance, Dawn of a Thousand Nights,and From Dust and Ashes) I find each very hard to put down (and I convinced ex-RAF flyboy to read one)!

Tricia Goyer LIVES her faith and it truly inspires her writing! Add to this, she writes about a time period I am fascinated with, WW2, and you have a winning combination!  In fact it is a testament to my ability to multi task (almost) as I still manage to bake my own bread and pastries (every other day), clean the house (somewhat) and feed the troops (albeit only four of them unless you count the Corgi and the kitty!) and read, my favourite pastime! Oh and blog!

So here Tricia Goyer's heartfelt message! Read on, there is a surprise giveaway included!

'If I could, I'd invite you into my living room and we'd sit in front of my Christmas tree. On the branches you'll see mostly homemade ornaments that my kids have made over the years. Around the house there are also candle holders made from tin cans and doilies made from cut-out felt pieces. I take greater joy in these simple mementos than fancy decorations and a house that looks as if could be on display in Better Homes and Gardens. 

Of course that wasn't always the case. As a young(er) wife and mom I'd want to display a certain image. I'd want everything to look, "Just so." I can't really say when things changed; it happened slowly over time. The more I wrote and shared what was really going on inside me, the more I understood that I wasn't the only one facing the same obstacles and struggles. The more real I became, the more others responded. I built connections not by being perfect but by offering my true self as a present to others. 

This Christmas remember that life isn't all about the tinsel, and bows, and bling. It's the simple things--like handmade snowflakes--that can bring the biggest smiles. And sharing what's really in our hearts--what's really in there down deep--is the best present we can give to those we love. 

My latest book, Remembering You, is a story about a girl and her grandpa (and well, there's much more to the story,  we'll leave it at that!) and what better way to give a shout-out to our elderly relatives this holiday than sharing our thoughts about them!

A Remembering You Holiday MEME (a chance to win one of 10 four book prize packs)! 

 'It's Christmas and I feel like giving away presents!  

In a comment answer the questions listed below on this blog and if your name is chosen (by Random.org) you will be entered in the giveaway!'

Here are Tricia Goyer's questions:

1. What's your favorite holiday song?

2. What's your favorite holiday tradition?

3. If you could travel one place with an elderly family member where would you go?

4. What questions would you ask?

5. What is a non-tangible gift have you received from an elderly relative?

6. What is the best/worst/strangest gift you've received from an elderly relative?

Alright Readers, here are my answers:

1. What's your favorite holiday song?

'I'll be home for Christmas'!

2. What's your favorite holiday tradition?

The Yule Log! Each year I hesitate baking it but this authentic recipe is worth the time and it would not be the same for my children without it!

3. If you could travel one place with an elderly family member where would you go?

Heyst-sur-Mer! Granny left her heart overthere!

4. What questions would you ask?

Everything under the sun! I still have so many questions unanswered!

5. What is a non-tangible gift have you received from an elderly relative?

 Granny's love for the Sea! I can live just about anywhere as long as I hear the waves crashing on the shore!

6. What is the best/worst/strangest gift you've received from an elderly relative?

Granny's thirst for life! She lived to be 93, always looking to discover a new place, meet new people and enjoy life!

Okay! Now it is your turn and be sure to answer all the questions in a comment no later than the 21st of Decembre for a chance to win!

Please remember to leave your email address in the comment for contact in the following format: 

cbrown1 at yahoo period com!

CHRISTMAS IS...

Blessings to all,