5 Steps on My MS Battle Plan - By Tracie Peterson

Author Tracie Peterson

MS and MS by Tracie Peterson

Sometimes things come to us out of nowhere and we can’t help but wonder what God has planned. That’s the way it was when I was diagnosed with not one, but three different auto-immune disorders, one of which is Multiple Sclerosis.  Until that moment, MS had always stood for manuscript – not a life changing disease.

Tracie's Office

 Finding out I had MS sent me into a whole different area of research. No one in my family has MS so there was no one close to go to and learn about the disorder. God put me in touch with some really great people, however, and over the years I’ve learned a lot. I’ve also seen how God has been at work.

Tracie's Montana Mountains

MS symptoms are different in different folks, but one of the worst symptoms is the fatigue and memory loss.  For a writer, both of those things interfere a great deal. When I was first diagnosed it wasn’t unusual for me to sleep up to 18-20 hours a day. Most folks didn’t understand – doesn’t everyone get tired? But this was different. I was exhausted to such a degree that I could barely move. The memory loss showed up in forgetting words or thoughts. I’d be working on my manuscript and come to a word that I just couldn’t bring to mind. It was so frustrating and worrisome, but God has shown me how to turn even that over to Him. When I come to those places where the word or words won’t come, I just leave myself a blank and come back to it later. I also started making lists for just about everything. For the exhaustion I’ve learned to pace myself and take naps. The doctor also had an amazing medication that has helped.

Tracie's MS Hoodie!

Everybody has something in life that interferes in some way. It might not be a disorder or disease, but there will always be those things that come to us and create havoc and frustration. There are a lot more things that we can’t change, than those we can so why let those issues run our lives or worse yet ruin them? For me, it’s a matter of refusing to yield territory to the enemy and in order to do that—I have to have a battle plan.

My plan goes something like this.

 1) Pray and spend time in God’s Word.

 2) Humble myself and admit my weaknesses, but focus on my strengths.

 3)  Understand that sometimes the answer doesn’t look like I think it should.

 4)  Keep a positive attitude – commit it all to God

 5) Use my problem to encourage others and lead them back to the source of strength – Jesus.

Your battle plan will probably look different. It might be longer or shorter, but the important thing is to have one and let God run the show.

CFP: Thanks so much Tracie for sharing with us and our readers! We love your writing!!! Great Battle Plan!

Giveaway: A copy of Tracie Peterson's latest book (which I am listening to now on audiobook!) A Treasure Concealed. Winner's choice of format (OPEN to international readers also, the book is available through Book Depository!) Question: Do you have a "Battle Plan" to address health issues in your life or a loved ones' life? 

Darlene Franklin on Coping with Life in a Nursing Home

Author Darlene Franklin

Darlene, welcome to Overcoming With God. We appreciate your willingness to share your testimony of overcoming with our readers.

Would you tell us about the most difficult thing in your life you have had to overcome, with God’s help? Answer:

In an earlier visit, I talked about my daughter’s suicide. I hope that will always be the hardest thing I’ve had to overcome. But lately, I have been struggling with my health. I’ve been living in a nursing home for over two years, and have been hospitalized five times in the past three years.

In August I turned 60. I have enjoyed the benefits of physical therapy; I can move more easily. I’m also losing weight. Nevertheless, I can no longer write as much as I used to, and I get very frustrated.

I’m going to share a poem I wrote about that birthday. The prompt came from choosing an item on my bucket list.

LOVE’S THE WORD

I want love

My bucket list screams my need

Mix together one, five and six

Add two, three and nine

To be loved and to love others

Family and strangers

I might not make it

The doctor says ten years,

Fifteen if I’m lucky

Five if I’m not

I want more

I dream of outliving them all

Blow past seventy-eight to eighty

Whether my tombstone reads 2019 or 2034

Love fills the dash between life and death

What passages in the Bible have been most helpful to you in those times?

When I began therapy, I was afraid of the pain involved with therapy. The verse I clung to was “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” (2 Timothy 1:7) I decided not to let fear stop me. I couldn’t stop the pain, but I could ignore it, to a certain point.

Disability friendliness: Is this latest release available in audio format or do you have any other works available on audio? Do your e-books have audio capability? Do you have any in large print?

            I have two books in large print: Beacon of Love and more recently, Homefront Dreams.

In this latest work, do you have any topics useful for bibliotherapy, or therapeutic influence through reading about a disorder or situation?

            I might recommend my book from earlier this year, Saving Felicity, about two families dealing aging family members dealing with dementia. An Apple for Christmas features twins and a child who is a problem student. The girls lost their mother. Several factors could foster discussion.

Question you’d like to ask readers:

Hmm. What are some of your favorite apple recipes? An Apple for Christmas should come with a warning label, this book will make you hungry.

I’d love to hear from twins. What is it like, good and bad?

Author bio:

Darlene Franklin’s greatest claim to fame is that she writes full-time from a nursing home. She lives in Oklahoma, near her son and his family, and continues her interests in playing the piano and singing, books, good fellowship, and reality TV in addition to writing. She is an active member of Oklahoma City Christian Fiction Writers, American Christian Fiction Writers, and the Christian Authors Network. Poetry is her newest passion. She has written over thirty novels as well as more than 250 devotionals. You can find Darlene online elsewhere at http://darlenehfranklinwrites.blogspot.com/ and https://www.facebook.com/Poet.Darlene.Franklin.

 

An Apple for Christmas by Darlene Franklin

Darlene’s books are available for sale at http://www.amazon.com/Darlene-Franklin/e/B001K8993A/

Giveaway: We're giving away three copies of An Apple for Christmas this week, celebrating Darlene's release of Book 4 in the Christmas Traditions Series. 

3 Reasons to Read Niki Turner's "Sadie's Gift" -- A Review by Carrie Fancett Pagels

Sadie's Gift by Niki Turner

I just finished Niki's novella, which is the second release in the Christmas Traditions Series. Cynthia Hickey's (Handcrafted Christmas) released first and I'm hoping mine (The Fruitcake Challenge) will be up soon. I really enjoyed this story and I think you will, too.

Five Stars *****


I have three reasons to read this story now:

1) Unique story line.

Here's what Niki said about her book: In Sadie's Gift, the heroine, Sadie, is a nurse at a preventorium in the early 1920s, where children who had been exposed to tuberculosis were housed.

Seriously--how many stories have you read with this setting and topic? Tuberculosis was basically a death sentence in those days. Beautiful bibliotherapy balance in this story of seeing the light and the good and the enjoyment of today while coping with a devastating condition.

2) Tragic hero in a Christmas story.

As I started reading the novella, I was immediately surprised by the background of the hero. He's suffered a loss right near Christmas that is significant. I'd not seen anything like it in a Christian historical romance for Christmas. But it works perfectly for the story. And the heroine is so real, I'd like to call her up!

3) Opportunity to get the whole set of novellas!

One of our readers who reads and posts a review of the novella will receive Kindle copies (or Nook) for the entire set at they release. The first OWG reader who contacts me at OWGblog@aol.com with a link to their review will win ebook copies of the entire set, which will release through October!


Link to purchase on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00N73HEV0

Giveaway: A copy of Niki's new novella! Leave a comment.

OVERCOMING: The Unknown, by Kim Vogel Sawyer

Author Kim Vogel Sawyer

From the time I was a little girl, I’ve been a question-asker. My poor dad patiently answered my deluges of questions (although I’m sure at times he wished I wasn’t so inquisitive). Now, as an adult, I find myself aiming my endless questions at my Father God. After all, He knows everything, right?

Most recently I’ve been questioning why my littlest granddaughter, Kendall Grace, has to face such a difficult start to life. Kendall has a host of physical medical problems, the combination of which is very puzzling to doctors. As Kendall Grace’s gramma, I want to know WHY this baby girl’s muscles are weak, WHY her digestive system doesn’t work right, WHY her bones aren’t growing normally, and HOW these issues will affect her socially and emotionally as she grows into little girlhood, enters her teenage years, and eventually becomes a grown-up. While I pray healing for this darling baby with the big blue eyes and a smile that could melt the abominable snowman, I try to look ahead and see what the future holds for her.

Apparently my “crystal ball” is broken, because things are cloudy. But you know what? I’m discovering that maybe it’s okay for me not to know. When we don’t KNOW, we’re forced into a place of trust. 2 Corinthians 5:7 says “For we live by faith, not by sight.” If we could see/know everything in advance, then what would be the purpose of faith? A dear friend who walked the cancer journey with her son told me, very wisely, that she gave up the right to know and simply trusted God knew...and that was enough.

So that’s what I’m trying to do--simply trust that God knows...and that is enough. It isn’t easy, I confess. That little girl who trailed her daddy and asked, “Why, Daddy? Why?” is still very much a part of me. ‘Cause I’m human. But just as Daddy did oh so long ago, I know my Father is smiling down at me, perhaps with a hint of indulgence glimmering in His eyes, and answering patiently, “All in good time, Kim. Trust Me.”

Unknown times are growing times. Not a bad place to be, after all.

Social media links:
Kim's Facebook page

Kim's website

Kim's Twitter page

Bio: 

In 1966, Kim Vogel Sawyer told her kindergarten teacher that someday people would check out her book in libraries. That little-girl dream came true in 2006 with the release of Waiting for Summer's Return. Since then, Kim has watched God expand her dream beyond her childhood imaginings. With over 30 titles on library shelves and more than a million copies of her books in print, she enjoys a full-time writing and speaking ministry. Empty-nesters, Kim and her retired military husband, Don, operate a bed-and-breakfast inn in small-town Kansas with the help of their four feline companions. When she isn't writing, Kim stays active serving in her church's women's and music ministries, traveling with "The Hubs," and spoiling her quiverful of granddarlings. 

Purchase links:

AMAZON: Through Deep Waters

BARNES & NOBLE: 

CBD:
Book Depository Kim Vogel Sawyer Books (available for international shipping.)
Deeper Shopping Kim's books

Giveaway: We are giving away two copies of Kim's books this week, winning reader's choice of book and format (international winners ebook only or paperback if the book is available through Book Depository.) Starbucks $10 gift card.  Follow Kim on Twitter (put "T") or like her FB page (put "FB") and leave an encouraging comment or prayer for Kim and her granddaughter to enter.  Beginning this week, winners will be posted in the upper right corner of the blog, so you do not have to leave your email address but you must contact us at OWGblog@aol.com if your name is listed.

Interview with Carrie Fancett Pagels

Carrie Fancett Pagels

Carrie has interviewed many authors on this blog. Now we wanted to turn things around and let Carrie tell us about herself. We’re looking forward to getting to know you a bit better, Carrie!

Carrie, please tell us about your upcoming releases.

I am a contributor to a Civil War anthology spearheaded by Murray Pura, with a focus on the year 1863. My story is set at Shirley Plantation in Charles City, Virginia and begins in the year 1862 and ends in early 1863. There are about a dozen contributors to the anthology, each section releasing as an ebook. The ebooks are supposed to also be put into an audiobook format. All of the stories will be bundled into a paperback for Christmas release. 

I am also a contributor to a nonfiction book compiled by Cynthia Howerter and LaTan Murphy that releases May 1st through Lighthouse of the Carolinas entitled "God's Provision in Tough Times." 

  

We’d like to know more about your writing career. Tell us about the first time you realized you wanted to be a writer.

I was a child. I believe God called me to be a writer and kept trying to get my attention. Instead I became a psychologist but I believe God has used that experience to help my writing.

Who is your greatest literary inspiration?

Lucy Maude Montgomery and Margaret Mitchell. Although these two authors may have very different heroines (Anne of Green Gables, Scarlet O’Hara) their ability to capture a time and place as well as do fabulous characterization is admirable.

We know you love the Colonial era. What makes this time period so special for you?

I live in the historic triangle of Virginia. This time period riveted my attention when we moved here and about that time I discovered my family roots in Virginia, unknown to me prior to that time. As I researched one of my ancestors, Johan Adam Rousch, I was deeply touched by the accounts I read while researching—from testimony by American Revolutionary war soldiers and from colonial frontiers people as recorded in volumes I read at the University of Virginia in their rare book stacks. Their voices came alive, as did the people, when I read their accounts. Because I have a vivid imagination, their words nagged at me to tell their stories.

However, I do love many different times in history, hence my tagline "Overcoming Through Time." And I am happy about my inclusion in the Civil War anthology. I have other manuscripts set outside the 19th century but I prefer earlier times in America.

What is an experience God has brought you through where you’ve learned something invaluable?

Two years ago I was so ill I believed I might not get another year to live. I gave my entire will, my life, over to the Lord to the point of preparing for Him to take me home. I was in bed twelve weeks between 2009-2010 due to complications from a biologic I was on and illnesses from a suppressed immune system. I learned to trust Him to the point of death and to trust His will for my life.

Can you tell us a little about your salvation experience?

I gave my life to the Lord as a young person but I turned my back on God for a long time. I returned to Christ as an adult. At that time I asked Him to be Lord of my life. That is a key difference. When He is Lord of our lives we not only believe in Christ and all His promises but we want to obey Him and to please Him by giving our will over to Him. 

What is your favorite Bible verse and why?

The 23^rd Psalm, which is not a verse, but the first verse in particular, is a favorite, among many. I was led to speak particularly on the 23^rd Psalm to residents of a local nursing home the Sunday before 9-11 happened. I believe God was preparing me. A friend, also, was convicted that she should immerse herself in this psalm during that same time. I was pregnant, at home alone, when the attack occurred and watched it happen on TV. I kept praying that if there was anyone still up there in those skies that God would give them bravery to deal with the situation. And some did. Some that gave their lives were saying the 23^rd Psalm before they made their move to disarm the attackers and bring the plane down. This psalm affirms that no matter what, even in the shadow of death, He holds us in His very palm and we should trust Him.

How do you tackle and overcome life’s stresses?

I find time in the Word and in prayer helps best. Also seeking out godly advice. And sharing with the OWG contributors!

What makes you smile?

Hugging my soon to be eleven-year-old son (birthday this week!) or my husband or my adult daughter!  I am a big hugger!!!

Is there anything else you’d like to share with us?

God has blessed me so much. I am grateful for all He’s done for me. I pray that I am a blessing to others, too! I also have a contribution to a nonfiction book that will release in May. 

You are a true blessing to all of us on OWG!! Thanks, Marian!  I am the one blessed by my OWG "angels."

Carrie, thank you for answering these questions. We wish you all the best in your writing career, and we hope and pray to see your novels published soon!

Thanks, Marian, Diana, Teresa, and Noela!!!  God gave me SO much assistance with the novel I wrote in 2011-2012, that I believe He has a home for it. It is His and He will put it where He wants!  

_________________________________________

GIVEAWAY: A surprise basket of pink goodies and perchance a Kindle copy of Carrie's, Return to Shirley Plantation! 

TO ENTER: ‘like’ Carrie’s author page on Facebook—put CFP in your comment when you have done so. Extra entry for liking Cry of Freedom page and another for liking the Helping Hands page.  

Interview With Rita M. Hancock, M.D. by Carrie Fancett Pagels

Rita M. Hancock, M.D.

Dr. Rita M. Hancock is a board-certified pain management specialist physician and is the author of Radical Well-being: A Biblical Guide to Overcoming Pain, Illness, and Addictions (Siloam, January 2013) and The Eden Diet: How To Eat Treats, Enjoy Your Food, and Lose Weight (Zondervan, 2008). 

Rita, welcome to Overcoming Through Time – With God’s Help.  We appreciate your willingness to share your testimony of overcoming with our readers.  Would you tell us about the most difficult thing in your life you have had to overcome, with God’s help? (transparency appreciated!)

By far, my most challenging struggle in life has been in the area of body weight and body image. Born into food-centered Italian-American family, I grew up worshipping food more than I worshipped God. I ate gigantic portions when I wasn’t even hungry, just because the food was “there” and it tasted good. It’s no surprise that I weighed 207 pounds by the time I was 17 years old! Thankfully, before I left for college, I lost 75 of those extra pounds. But, then, I went on to develop a compulsive eating disorder while in my pre-med studies at Cornell. It only makes sense that I would fall into either overeating or starving under the pressure of the rigorous pre-med curriculum. Up to that point in life, all I had ever known was either overeating when stressed or drastically under-eating to try to feel “in control.” I never knew “normal” eating--i.e. eating in response to physical (not emotional) hunger. Thankfully, my story has a happy ending. By the time I finished college, I discovered how to eat according to physical hunger. Fast-forward another fifteen years and things got even better when I realized that God Himself programmed us with those hunger pangs for a reason--so we’d actually FEEL them every now and then! I discuss more about my personal weight loss testimony and how God helped my overcome my weight problem in my book, The Eden Diet.

What is your favorite bible verse and why?
Matthew 19:26 “...but with God all things are possible.” As you know, I’m a pain management specialist. I have this Bible verse on the wall in one of my exam rooms, and, I believe that Scripture changes the atmosphere not only of that room, but of my whole office. It gives my patients and me hope and is a springboard for healing.

Disability friendliness: Is this latest release available in audio format or do you have any other works available on audio?  Do your e-books have audio capability? Do you have any in large print?  
I am 99% sure that my book on emotional healing, Radical Well-being, will be in audio and large print versions.

What has been the most important thing you hope your readers will get from your books and why?
I want readers to become healthy in mind, body, and spirit! My first book, The Eden Diet, was about losing weight by using hunger pangs as a compass for when and how much to eat. My second book, Radical Well-being, takes your healing to the next level and practically hands emotional and spiritual healing to you on a silver platter. Not only does emotional peace facilitate weight loss by reducing your urges to stress-eat, it also reduces the severity of your physical pain problems and stress-induced illnesses like fibromyalgia, migraines, spinal pain, IBS, TMJ pain, pelvic pain, depression, anxiety, and others.

As you researched your books, did you learn anything that particularly touched your heart?
My patients’ real life stories are more horrendous than anything I could research or make up. Many of my patients were neglected by their alcoholic or otherwise mentally ill parents or they were abandoned, or abused physically, verbally, or sexually, as children. Others suffered horrendous traumas, like losing their parents or other family members or close friends in natural disasters like tornadoes or house fires or the Oklahoma City bombing (I live and practice medicine in OKC). One of my patients even saw her own dad shoot himself in the head when she was only five years old. He was bipolar and actually told her it was her fault. Can you imagine how that little girl felt when that happened?

In this latest work, do you have any topics useful for bibliotherapy, or therapeutic influence through reading about a disorder or situation?  
I believe very strongly in telling stories that other people can relate to and identify with. When I talk about my patients’ stories and how they found biblical truth to replace the lies they internalized as children, I believe it’s a springboard for my readers to find healing in their own lives.

websites: 
www.TheEdenDiet.com 
www.RadicalWell-being.com. 


In social media:
https://www.facebook.com/RadicalWellBeing
https://www.facebook.com/TheEdenDietChristianWeightLossProgram
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Doctor-Ritas-Author-Page/185333998237079
Twitter @RitaHancockMD

Blogs to which Dr. Rita contributes: 
The Wordserve Watercooler (writer's blog)
The Christian Post (health blogger)
Free online diet forum and blog: The Eden Diet blog 

Giveaway:  Dr. Hancock is generously giving away a copy of one of her books.  Leave a comment to be entered! Answer this question -- what do you wish a medical expert could tell you about healthy living?