From Shirley's Heart to Yours

Current Projects and Family

24-Sep-2007

September, 2007, Issue 1

Welcome to the first issue of my online newsletter. My goal is to offer you glimpses into my life in Millersburg, Pennsylvania, and to encourage you to step out in faith to accomplish whatever God has placed on your heart.

Many people ask me what I’m writing. I’ve been between writing projects for quite some time, and I don’t like that. I’m happiest when I’m on a deadline or at least have a goal to work toward.

The publication of my book, Sisterhood of Faith, last October has led to speaking invitations, so I spent a lot of time this summer prepping for fall and winter women’s retreats. I lead them alone or with two friends, Kim and Janine. We call ourselves “Friends of the Heart” because our passion is to help women open their hearts and find joy in Christ. You can see our photo at www.womenspeakers.com and our schedule under "Events" on this web site.

Speaking projects are similar to writing projects because you plan your talk, find appropriate illustrations and get it all down on paper. At least that’s what I do. I enjoy that process. But it’s even more fun when Kim, Janine and I do it as a trio and brainstorm catchy titles, etc.

Next week I’m planning to attend Sandy Cove Christian Writer’s Conference. I’m very excited about that, although I don’t relish driving alone for two and a half hours to get there. I do hope to get direction on a new writing project that is still in the infancy stage. It’s related to Sisterhood of Faith but altogether different.

May I introduce you to my family? I have a wonderful husband Bill who allows me to spend my days in my “Upper Room” office, clicking away at the keyboard. He never ever complains. Then there are my two married sons and their families. Bill and I have five grandchildren. My family is the joy and delight of my life. I also have a daughter Christy Marie waiting for me in heaven. Shortly after birth she found heaven’s air easier to breath.

Bill and I live in a small community that just celebrated its 200th birthday in a big way. Millersburg is located on the banks of the Susquehanna River. As far as known, the community boasts the only all-wooden double-paddle stern wheel ferryboat in the U.S. Each ferryboat accommodates four vehicles and 50 passengers. It’s a great midsummer treat to take the ferry across the lazy, meandering, mile-wide river and buy a cone of ice cream at a campgrounds near Liverpool.

Please use the “Discussion” button to let me know of topics or issues you would like me to address in this newsletter. Until then, may God bless your efforts to live for Him.

Published Works

Book
Sisterhood of Faith: 365 Life-Changing Stories About Women Who Made a Difference
This devotional book for women received the Young Voices Foundation 2009 Gold Award in the category of Inspirational/Spiritual.
Ten Men Who Made a Difference
Stories of ten men and how they made a difference.
Persons, Places and Things: Memories From the 1940s and 1950s That Molded My Life
Shirley's memories of growing up self-published for her grandchildren
Book Reviews
Book Review: Making Sense Out of Life
Practical guidelines to apply when the going gets tough.
Book Review: The Butcher's Daughter
The story of Sandra Lesher Stuban, an army nurse, with ALS.
Book Review: Scandalon
A compelling memoir of life in the U. S. and China.
Book Review: When I Lay My Isaac Down by Carol Kent
Inspiration for anyone facing a major life challenges.
Book Review: The Most Famous Man in America by Debby Applegate
A book about an influential but often overlooked man.
Book Review: What's So Amazing About Grace? by Philip Yancey
A book to help you appreciate the grace of God.
Tip Sheet
"5 Steps to Turn Memories Into One-Page Memoirs"
An article to guide readers in capturing memories of persons, places and things in one-page formats.