Don’t give up on your dreams.
I almost did.
2017 has been a rough year for me so far. You see I’ve been suffering from that dreaded thing called menopause and has affected me mentally. It has zapped my self-confidence and many of my joys. Yes, even my joy of writing. I’ve heard from a number of people that I’m “just not myself.” This has saddened me. I struggled even more. Frustration set in.
Looking up in the atrium at the Gaylord Texan Resort.
So, what does one do when something like this happens? I did the only thing I could think of. I pleaded to God for help and reached out to my family and friends, asking for prayer. I talked about my struggles to those I trusted. They understood and promised to pray. I went to my doctor and started taking a supplement to help me over the hump.
And waited. And tried my hardest to just TRUST. Trust that it would subside and I’d start feeling normal again.
In September, I had the opportunity to travel to Dallas, Texas to the annual ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) Conference. I went into there feeling burdened and heavy laden, hoping for some spark to help me get back on track. I didn’t want to give up on my dreams, but lately, it has been hard. 
I reconnected with fellow friends and writers and met new ones. I took classes and met with agents and editors in hopes of gaining interest in my manuscripts. I mustered up courage as I went into each meeting.
So, what happened at ACFW?
My joy of writing was reignited. My appointments were promising. Friends encouraged me. And then the last night, the biggest encouragement happened.
One of my dreams came true.
My manuscript, Stolen Vows, won the Genesis award for the Romantic Suspense category. I was beyond humbled and excited as I accepted the award. God is good.
You see, dreams can come true to those who work hard and wait upon the Lord’s timing. He knows best.
Today I’m still struggling with menopause but I’m doing much better. My joys are starting to return. My love of writing is there and I’m working on my next book. Praise Him!
Don’t give up on your dreams. Even when life tries to get you down. We can overcome. I just know it!
Trust in the One who has placed those dreams on your heart.
What dreams do you have? Have you given up on them? Share with us.
Here are more pictures from ACFW. Enjoy!
Loretta Eidson, Lynette Eason, and I hanging out together!
Longhorn! LOL
Train going through the atrium
Waterfall running through the atrium. Beautiful!
Fountain in the atrium.
Enjoying an iced pumpkin spice latte with Loretta at the end of the conference!
All dressed up for the Gala event!
Loretta and I at the Gala
Dar with her Genesis Award
So proud of you!!!
Thanks, DiAnn! I owe so much to you. Thanks for being such a great mentor and friend. Love you. xo
SO..SO..PROUD of you Sissy!!! You have been an inspiration to me, even when things have been tough you hang on to Our Saviour as He had directed your path… I can’t wait for the NEXT step He has for your writing journey. Love you to infinity and beyond!
Thanks, Sissy. I appreciate all of your love and encouragement throughout my journey. You are also an inspiration to me. Love you! xo
I am so so proud of you my love!!!!! God has rewarded your hard work and determination.. you are God’s gift to me!
Thanks, Di! Thank you for all of your love and encouragement. I really appreciate it! Love you xo
Very touching and meaningful. We all have our struggles.
Hi, David! Yes, life is full of struggles, isn’t it? Thanks so much for stopping by!
So glad I could be there to see you receive this well-deserved award! Like I said, it was time. God is good all the time and His timing is always perfect! So very proud of you!!
Thanks, Loretta! Loved having you and Ken there with me. Thanks for all your support and encouragement. Yes, you’re right. God’s timing is always perfect. Love you! xo
So proud of you Dar.
Thanks, Cathy! I appreciate all your support!! xo
Way to go, Darlene. So proud of you for hanging in there. More good things ahead!
Thanks, Terrie! Thanks for stopping by.
Congrats on your award and I knew you were not yourself and have been praying for you.
Hi, Gail. Thanks for your prayers. I really appreciate them. God bless!