Robin Lee Hatcher's Write Thinking

Monday madness

I am in a race to finish my next book. Still have too far to go, but I'm giving it all I've got. As I flip my calendar over to April, I'm getting a black marker to check off those days as I head toward D-Day. I received back cover and catalog copy for this book today to correct and approve. Reading it made me feel good about the book, too.

Monday nights I like to watch Dancing With the Stars. I love to dance, although these days, it is just me and the dog, who often starts barking like crazy, as if to say, "Please stop, Mom! You look nuts!" Twenty years ago, I would have loved to be a "star" on this show. Of course, I would have fainted long before Marie Osmond did last year.

Priscilla Presley is the oldest female contestant they have ever had on the show, and I have to give her high marks for giving it a go. But is she becoming the next cosmetic surgery nightmare, in the footsteps of Joan Rivers? There is something very disturbing about her looks that just makes my heart hurt. Those cheekbones. Those weird lips. It's not the way she looked when she married Elvis or when she starred in Dallas.

Not that I don't understand the urge to get a facelift. I wouldn't mind firmer skin. I decided to do a facial peel a couple of weeks ago. Well, let me tell you. Peeling it off was not a pretty sight. The skin under my eyes pulled out about two feet. Okay, that is an exaggeration, but it looked like it was going to pull out that far. It was positively frightening!!! What if it hadn't gone back to where it belonged?

But still, I have to wonder what drives women to go to such extremes to look younger. There is something to be said for growing old gracefully — and naturally. Isn't there?

Potpourri

I had the nicest thing happen to me this evening. One of the readers (a lurker) of my blog wrote to check on me since I hadn't posted since Tuesday. And since I usually post on the departing Idol contestant on Wednesday nights that increased her concern. I'm very serious when I say, it is nice to be missed.

After a day of writing on Wednesday, I had a Homeowner's Association board meeting to attend. I am the HOA's treasurer, and after a very hard winter with lots of snow removal, we had important budgeting issues to discuss. Thus, I didn't get to watch American Idol "live." (We don't actually get it live in Boise.)

Thursday was a running around day. I wasn't home much at all. Then it was off to speak to the newly formed chapter of American Christian Fiction Writers. IdaHope Writers — cool name, huh? That was a lot of fun but I did Q&A for about an hour and a half so was very tired when I got home. No time to post.

My mom's hospital stay two weeks ago really put me behind on my book, and I've suddenly found myself needing to write many more words per day than is normal for me, so as soon as I was home from the chiropractor's this morning, I hit the writing hard.

TMI? Sorry. But it isn't as if I haven't thought of things I needed to post about. So I am going to do an "information dump" with a much more attractive name of Potpourri.

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Farewell to Chikezie.

On Tuesday, I said that Ramiele and Chikezie looked to be in danger. I also thought that Kristy Lee could have gone. I do feel that Chikezie has more talent than some who are still on board, but I never thought he would go the whole distance to Idol status. This kid has such a sweet heart, from all appearances, that it's impossible not to like him and wish him great success wherever life takes him.

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Let me tell you about a book that you simply must read!!!

Small Footprint, Big Handprint: How to Live Simply and Love Extravagantly
by Tri Robinson

This book — only 125 pages, not counting Notes and Discussion Guide — is amazing. Like the man who wrote it (pastor of the Boise Vineyard), it is simple yet profound. Here's the back cover blurb:

What would you sacrifice to change the world? Your job? Your lifestyle? Your money?

We need a smaller footprint. The pursuit of the American dream has left most of us empty, stretched in nine different directions and self-absorbed. Aside from the occasional natural disaster, we've all but forgotten about the people around the world and down the street who need us and need us to live differently. We need to live more simply.

We want to make a bigger handprint. In a world crying out for help, we struggle to believe we can make a difference. But reformation starts with people who have one idea they believe can change their world and the power of God's love changes everything. We need to love more extravagantly.

The world is changing whether we like it or not. The question that begs to be answered is this: Will you sit by idly and watch it change for the worse or will you allow God to put you on the forefront of changing it for the better? Small Footprint, Big Handprint is your invitation to embark on a journey for the latter.

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How much is too much?

In the midst of reading the above mentioned book, my latest People Magazine arrived, and in it was an article about the McCartney divorce. Poor Heather Mills only gets $33 million cash plus two homes, additional funds for security and vacations and $70,000 a month in child support for their four year old daughter. She complained because Paul can fly A Class while his daughter will be forced to fly B Class with this little bit of money (my wording, not the article's). In the same issue is a beautiful photo display for J Lo and Marc Anthony's twin babies, including pictures of the pair of $3,000 prams (one for each baby) and their gorgeous mansion and her Mercedes.

The contrast of the way these celebrities live compared to how the rest of the world lives (and too many barely survive if they survive at all) made my heart break. I have been working at rendering down my life, at simplifying, at owning less and being owned by less. And yet, Have I given enough, Lord, to those who have so much less? Have I loved extravagantly?

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Movie Time

I have watched some really good movies recently that I simply must recommend.

Enchanted

A truly charming, feel good film. Okay, this isn't food for your brain. This is a movie to watch when you want to smile for a couple of hours.

    Martian Child
 

I am not sure when I added Martian Child to my Netflix queue, but I'm so glad I did. This is a charming movie, one that gives you hope for mankind. A story of a heartbroken widower, a writer of Sci-Fi, who adopts an orphan who believes he is from Mars. It's about unconditional love and trust and acceptance and being an imperfect parent in an imperfect world but doing the best you can and a whole lot more. John Cusack is wonderful (he's such a talented actor), and the kid who plays his adopted son, Bobby Coleman, is a young actor with loads of talent. Do not miss this. And never, never, never, never, never give up. (You'll know why I said that after you watch the film.)

The Kite Runner

 

I've already told my blog readers how much I loved the novel on which this movie is based. Well, I must tell you that I loved this film too. I watched the movie sometimes while holding my breath, in one scene hiding and unhiding my eyes, but it was the last line of the film which made me cry. And I do mean cry. It didn't matter that I'd read it in the book. Seeing it play out on the screen made me weep, both sad and happy tears. A tale of redemption worth seeing.

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So there you have it. Several days' worth of posts all in one.  

-rlh- 

idol 7: the 10 perform

I hit the stair-stepper at the start of American Idol. Maybe all that climbing (41 stories, by my count) interfered with my hearing, but I didn't think the evening started off too great. (Song choices were from the year the kids were born which meant mostly 80's music with one from the late 70's and one from the early 90's.)

Ramiele seemed off-key a lot through her song. Paula said she'd been under the weather. I think she is vulnerable.

Jason sang "Fragile" and I liked it, but it wasn't a Wow! performance.

Syesha had a good night. I can't say it was a favorite the way Randy and Paula seemed to think, but I was getting into the upper stories on my stair-stepping by then so maybe that colored my thoughts. {{grin}}

Chikezie's performance was very lackluster. Randy or Simon called it old-school, and maybe that was the main problem. I'd guess he's vulnerable this week.

Brooke sang Every Breath You Take. (Appropriate as by that time I was back on the couch and slowing my breathing.) She started off in the wrong key. Two words, and she stopped and began again. But the rest of it was quite good.

Michael chose two songs that he melded together, starting with We Will Rock You, then moving into We Are the Champions. (I can never hear We Will Rock You without envisioning the scene from A Knight's Tale — and Heath Ledger, too). Judges loved it and so did I.

Carly was up next. Hmm. She didn't do it for me. It felt very strained and her ending was atrocious.

Next up was David A. I didn't know the song at all, but it wasn't a ballad. I'm glad he switched it up a bit. That said, it isn't a favorite performance of his. And I still believe this kid will make it to the finals.

Kristy Lee went country-patriotic with God Bless the USA. Ouch. She was off-key more than once. But she nailed that ending note and it was the best performance she has had in quite a few weeks.

David C. closed the show. This guy is growing on me. His vocal tonight was impressive. He took a song I knew (Billie Jean — yeah, the one Michael Jackson did but it took me awhile to recognize it) but changed it up and made it his own. Brilliant!!!

My top picks for the night: Michael and David C. took the night.

-rlh-

2008 RITA Award finalists

This is D-Day for many writers of popular women's fiction. The day that finalists for the Romance Writers of America's RITA® Award (for published novels) and Golden Heart® Award (for unpublished manuscripts) receive phone calls telling them of their finalist status. A day that, for many, is a torturous one, waiting for that phone to ring. A day that will end in disappointment for the vast majority of the almost 2400 entries.

I've received that RITA call seven times in my career. Twice for my historical romances and five times for my inspirational novels. But since I have been entering the RWA contest since 1985, I obviously have had more years go by without a phone call than with one.

Awards are a weird thing. I wrestle every year with whether or not to enter any contests. There are definite pros and cons. I did a guest column over on Seekerville on March 6 that details my love/hate relationship with contests.

Yes, I am hoping to get a call again this year, but in the end, it's the story that matters, not the award. I have a great fondness for Return to Me, the novel I have entered in the Inspirational category, so I would love to see it honored. But I know the same is true of every other author and book entered in the same category. Even if all of them are wonderful, only a few (usually five to eight per category) will make it onto the finalist list. And so it goes.

Well, now I had better get to work on my next book and make this day count for something.

-rlh-

UPDATE: No RITA phone call this year. The good news is, this means I won't be going to RWA in San Francisco. As much as I love that city and enjoy the RWA conference, it comes at a bad time of year for me. So in that sense, it's a relief.

greater love has no man

Via Dolorosa, the way of sorrow . . . Christ died so that we might have life and have it abundantly.

In the grip of His grace,
Robin

Chapter a Week, part two

Click to join ChapteraWeek

In honor of their 1000^th member , Chapter-a-Week is celebrating with a book giveaway. The 1000^th subscriber has been notified that she'll receive a box of Chapter-a-Week's favorite new releases, including books by Traci DePree, Angie Hunt, Robin Lee Hatcher, Kim Sawyer, DeAnna Dodson, MaryLu Tyndall, Tamera Alexander, Hannah Alexander, Louise M. Gouge, DiAnn Mills, Camy Tang, Tricia Goyer and Judith Miller!

You just never know what surprises will come your way with Chapter-a-Week. So keep spreading the word so others can discover new, great reads at Chapter-a-Week. And in the future, if you forget which Write Thinking post tells you about this Yahoo Group, you can always find the Chapter-a-Week subscription box in the sidebar of my blog. Just scroll down to find it.

-rlh-

big honkin' chicken watches I Am Legend

Yes, it is true. Somehow this card carrying member of the BHCC (big honkin' chicken club) managed to watch the I Am Legend DVD. Alone!!!! Aren't you proud of me?

I'm not sure I could have watched it in a theater. Not without a lot of jumping and gasping and hiding my eyes behind my hands. (In the theater, this often means that popcorn goes flying all around, landing on innocent bystanders.)

I confess that I turned it off when the first "ghoul" attacked Will Smith and was going to return it to Netflix without finishing it. Then I decided to simply fast forward it every time those infected, flesh-eating ghouls came out of the woodwork. Not super fast. Just one notch up from normal. That got rid of the sound so I didn't have to hear the eerie music (the music can make me scream even when nothing happens), and it let me get through the tense spots quickly. I could still tell what was happening but didn't suffer from it.

I'm not sure exactly, but I suspect I watched the 100 minute movie in a little over 60 minutes. And I can say I actually liked the movie. No, it won't be a favorite and I wouldn't care to watch it again. But it'll get 3 stars on Netflix.

And best news yet — no nightmares. Yea!

Now if I could just fast forward Brandilyn Collins' books through the scary parts without missing important parts of the story, I might actually be able to read another one. But I'm afraid it doesn't work that way.

-rlh-

Law & Order bias

I've been a Law & Order fan for years and years. There are so many great things about the show—the acting, the writing, even the da-da music. But lately, maybe for the past two or three years, there has been a growing number of plots that center around lunatic so-called "Christians." The bias is so obvious against Christianity it makes me wonder about the writer or producer who has an ax to grind, the person who is on a mission to portray people of faith as dangerous, war-mongering fanatics. This week's episode was another one. A mother stoned to death by her fire-breathing son who killed her because he learned she was having an affair and it was God's will that she be stoned.

I've been a follower of Christ for over 30 years, and I have never met anyone like those who show up on a regular basis on Law & Order (and its off-shoots). I'm not saying there aren't cults and individuals who call themselves Christians but who practice something very different from what millions of believers around the globe practice. But why can't they have some characters who are Christians who display the wisdom and discernment that I see on a daily basis? Why can't they be regular folks who have jobs, who are good to their children, who pay their bills and their taxes, who attend church but also go to baseball games and volunteer for charities? The believers who do good work, who have a social conscience, who feed the poor in the park or knit winter caps for the homeless. The believers who give up their easy lives in America to travel to a third world country to minister to the poor.

The hatred for Christians on L&O is disturbing and it's a kind of brainwashing that is seeping into our culture more and more.

-rlh-

idol 7: from 11 to 10

Tonight's hour seemed to go by quite fast, probably because I was busy working on some ancestry stuff for my brother and cousins while I watched and listened.

Big surprise when Carly was in the bottom three, no surprise when Kristy Lee was next, and a nod of agreement when Amanda joined them.

Kristy Lee obviously is one lucky girl. She dodged another bullet (three weeks in a row!), and it is Amanda who was sent home and missed out on touring with the top ten. I believe America got it right. Kristy Lee may have had some missteps, but she has the ability to sing more than one kind of song.

Yes, I think it was time for Amanda to leave the show. However, I must say, she was an original. I wish her well.

idol 7: catchup on the 11

Okay, really fast, I'll give my opinion before tonight's elimination:

Amanda: dreadful; she has one sound only, no matter the song she sings; she should be in the bottom two

Kristy Lee: not good; I'm thinking she could be in the bottom two again

David A: I do love his voice; great job on the song but I'd like to hear something that isn't a ballad from him in the future

Michael: it was okay; sort of all over the place, but not horrible

Brooke: another okay performance, but nothing to shout about like last week; too much trying to explain herself when the judges are talking, not arguing with them, just explaining (she does this every week, and I wish she would simply listen and thank them)

David C: I wasn't impressed with this and was glad when it was over

Carly: she has a beautiful tone to her voice; while not my favorite song, quite lovely

Jason: okay, I just plain like this kid, and I thought he did a better job of it than the judges did; agreed, it was nowhere close to his Hallelujah performance but good

Syesha: the best I've heard her in recent weeks; really lovely and the best song choice of the night

Chikezie: not as great as last week; the harmonica was a big mistake

Ramiele: a fun performance and looked adorable

Overall: I was underwhelmed, for the most part, by last night's show. My opinion remains the same—it should be Amanda and Kristy Lee in the bottom two. I think Amanda should go home, but she may hang on a few more weeks

-rlh-

idol 7: the 11 perform

My apologies to those readers who pop over here for a recap each week. I had some other things going on and only caught the last few performances. The show is on my DVR, but I won't get to watch them all until tomorrow.

I did hear Simon says that it probably wasn't a good idea to do Beatles songs two weeks in a row. From what I saw, I think he was right. Anyway, I won't be casting any votes tonight, and I'll just have to hope that the right singers stay.

Experiencing the Resurrection

If you are a follower of Christ, then you know that we are in the midst of Holy Week, a time for reflection on the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, our Savior. My mom's health hasn't been great this past weekend, so I may miss some of the events my church holds. I hope not. Thursday is communion and a reenactment of the washing of the disciples' feet. Good Friday takes us to the Old Penitentiary where we view three scenes: Gethsemane/Betrayal; Courtyard/Denial; and Golgotha/Death. And of course, Easter Sunday there's the Sunrise service followed by Celebration of the Risen Lord. It's a precious, meaningful time.

With the importance of this week in our minds and hearts, allow me to tell you about a new book that is just out: Experiencing the Resurrection: The Everyday Encounter That Changes Your Life by Henry and Melvin Blackaby. If you ever had the good fortune of doing the marvelous previous Blackaby study, Experiencing God, you'll know you want to read this small volume too.

Dr. Henry Blackaby, president emeritus of Blackaby Ministries, is the author of more than a dozen books, including the best-selling classic Experiencing God. He has spent his life in ministry, serving as a music director and as a senior pastor for churches in California and Canada. Today he provides consultative leadership on prayer for revival and spiritual awakening on a global level. He and his wife make their home in Atlanta, Georgia.

Dr. Melvin Blackaby coauthored with his father, Henry Blackaby, the Gold Medallion winner Experiencing God Together. He travels extensively as a conference speaker. He and his wife and their three children live in Cochrane, Alberta, Canada, where he serves as senior pastor of Bow Valley Baptist Church.

Leave a comment on this blog post, and your name will be included in a drawing to win a copy of Experiencing the Resurrection . Here's the blurb:

What does the resurrection of Christ really mean for us? What does it reveal about the heart and mind of God? And what real differences can the miracle of the resurrection make in your life today?  

Discover answers to those and other questions as you examine God’s Word with this companion study guide to the book Experiencing the Resurrection by Henry Blackaby and Melvin Blackaby.

Packed with practical notes, advice, and questions for reflection, this highly interactive guide—ideal for small group or individual use—shows you how to witness Christ’s resurrection in and through your life. Each chapter of the book is explored in a flexible one-week format with “life change objectives” that arise from applying the truth for each day to your life.

I've only had the time to review a small portion of Experiencing the Resurrection, but I know it will be a blessing to all who read it.

And may you experience the resurrection anew throughout this week.

In the grip of His grace,
Robin

Chapter-a-Week giveaway

It's hard enough to find books that are just right for everyone. Chapter-a-Week gives readers the opportunity to read sample excerpts from a broad range of Christian fiction every week without having to pay a cent! Plus it's a great way to discover new authors you might not have found otherwise. They don't fill your inbox with needless emails. Only one email per week is all it takes to discover great new titles.

Founded in February 2002 by beloved novelists Jane Orcutt and Angela Hunt, Chapter-a-Week has had a steadily growing readership. In honor of their 1000th member (which could happen at any time), Chapter-a-Week is giving away autographed books by your favorite Christian novelists! They'll send a box of books to their 1000th member. It could be you.

Chapter-a-Week is a Yahoo! Group, so simply sign on to be a subscriber of the list and you'll start receiving your excerpts every Friday. Just go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChapteraWeek/ and click "join this group."

idol 7: from 12 to 11

Syesha and Kristy Lee and David H. were in the bottom three. Not a huge surprise, although I expected Ramiele to be one of them, either in Syesha's or David's place. I was pretty certain yesterday that Kristy Lee would be the one to go home tonight, so David H.'s ouster took me by complete surprise. Did the news about his former job experience hurt him or was it his campy performance last night? Who knows?

Side Note: I enjoyed seeing Katharine McPhee again and thought she sounded lovely. I don't predict she will ever be a huge star (a la Carrie Underwood or Kelly Clarkson), but she will do well enough for herself.

Another side note: The Fox show promos are a pain. I find Jim Carrey pretty funny but I would rather watch him in a movie or even on Letterman than see these corny routines to promote a movie. Wonder who we'll see next week? The new star of New Amsterdam? Hmm.

Well anyway, farewell David. Wishing you the best.

Typepad on the iPhone

I'm watching American Idol. Syesha now in the bottom three. And as I await the end of the hour, I decided to post to my blog via my iPhone. Haven't done this before so this I'd a test run. More to follow.

Idol 7: the final 12

I missed the first five minutes of the show (was on-line with my telephone company), but I didn't miss any performances. Tonight's music: the tunes of Lennon and McCartney.

First up, Syesha with Got to Get You Into My Life. I wasn't crazy about the arrangement. She sang it well though, so we'll see how it stands up against the others. I thought the judges were right that she looked and seemed nervous rather than confident.

Chikezie was next up with She's a Woman. Says he's putting a "little funk on it." He did at that with the banjo and tambourine intro. Then he blasted out. Wow! How courageous. (I'm so glad he stayed instead of Danny.) The judges loved it, big time.

Ramiele came in with a more sedate and soulful In My Life. Pretty but no pizzazz. Judges called it "safe" and "boring." I agree.

Jason was next up, and I hoped he would do great with If I Fell. I liked it, but as I watched, I could already hear the judges saying "too safe" and "boring." (Yep, that was Randy and Simon; Paula loved it.) I think he's going to have to "fire up" the performances now that we're in this stage of the competition. Definitely good enough to make it through the judges say, and I agree. This kid is one of my favorites (and a blog reader says he has led worship at his church in the past).

Forty-five minutes into the show, we arrived at Carly. Her intro says she sings Come Together every week when she performs at home, so that was her choice tonight. She looked and sounded very comfortable, and it was a good song choice for her. Judges loved it.

David C. was up next, and he chose to sing Eleanor Rigby. He changed it up a lot, definitely rocked it. I figured the judges would love it, but I wasn't connecting with it. Just didn't impress me. Maybe I know the original too well. I came of age to Beatles music, after all. Yep. Judges loved it. (Paula rambled.)

Like Jason before her, Brooke chose to play an instrument (his was guitar; she was on piano). Her song choice was Let It Be. A good one for her particular voice. Too safe? I liked it although wasn't blown away. Funny, the judges didn't mention "too safe" or "boring" this time. Simon even called it brilliant.

Forty-five minutes left, and here came David H. He chose I Saw Her Standing There, one of the Beatles early tunes. I was about 11 or 12 when I first heard this song. I liked what David did, but I think Randy was right that it was a bit overdone (trying to do too much with a simple song). Simon really panned it.

Here comes Amanda with You Can't Do That. She shouts it and I can't always understand the lyrics. I really do not like her style/vocals. Nope, I didn't like this at all, and I don't care how often Paula declares how talented she is.

Michael doesn't rock this week. He chooses Across the Universe and gives a soft, soulful performance. A little bland at the start, but I liked it. Randy and Simon both found it "sleepy" and "bland."

Kristy Lee does a country version of Eight Days A Week. Hmm. I'm a country fan as most of you who read my blogs about Idol know. This was not a good idea. And her ending was nothing short of atrocious, IMHO. I think Kristy is in danger, along with Ramiele. The judges universally disliked it.

Side note: Ugh. Could we stop this silliness of Ryan attacking and insulting Simon? And it is Ryan who instigates these exchanges. Not only that but it is terribly unfair to the poor contestant who is standing there while it is going on. It's dumb and childish and does not add to the show at all. Somebody rein Ryan in because, despite the way Randy and Paula laugh and seem to encourage anything that tweaks Simon, it just makes Ryan look dumb and petty and idiotic.

David A. brings the show to a close with We Can Work It Out. I would say this was his weakest performance of the season. He said in the intro that he was really nervous, and it showed. Even some pitchy spots and some faltering on a couple of lyrics. Not bad enough to put him in danger, but not great. Judges pan it.

I have mixed feelings about this week. None of my favorites were stand-outs, but none of them were the worst of the night. I think Chikezie was the true stand-out this week. Going home tomorrow? Most likely Kristy Lee, although it could be Ramiele.

-rlh-

be more productive - get a larger monitor

Last fall, I bought a new iMac with a 24" screen. I fell in love with it immediately, although I must admit that, if I need to move the cursor from the upper left corner to the lower right corner, it's a lot of real estate to scroll across. Today I read on-line that tests have proven that workers who use the 24" screens versus 18" screens accomplish their work faster:

Researchers at the University of Utah tested how quickly people performed tasks like editing a document and copying numbers between spreadsheets while using different computer configurations: one with an 18-inch monitor, one with a 24-inch monitor and with two 20-inch monitors. Their finding: People using the 24-inch screen completed the tasks 52% faster than people who used the 18-inch monitor; people who used the two 20-inch monitors were 44% faster than those with the 18-inch ones. There is an upper limit, however: Productivity dropped off again when people used a 26-inch screen. (The order of the tasks and the order of computer configurations were assigned randomly.)

I can believe it. For one thing, I can see at least two programs at once on the same screen, side by side. For example, when I'm writing, I have Word open on the left with the magnification at 150% (eases eye strain). On the right, I have open Apple's Dictionary and occasionally a third program that doesn't use a lot of space. My MacBook has the 13" screen. I have to hop between programs when I'm working on the laptop. It takes more time to do that.

So if you are in the market for a new computer, consider the size of your monitor. It can make a difference in your productivity.

To read the rest of the study, follow this link.

-rlh-

The Perfect Life blog tour

My latest novel, The Perfect Life , is the featured book this Monday through Wednesday on the CFBA. I guess I might as well participate, too. Yes?

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What Readers Have Said:

"The Perfect Life had a riveting beginning. I was dying to know what had actually happened. Then it looked like the mystery was over and I wasn't sure I wanted to finish the story. However, I decided to give it a chance and am glad I did because the story didn't shake out the way it seemed like it would at first. It's very hard to sustain tension and genuine spiritual struggles in a novel about marriage relationships without it getting annoying for the reader due to the harping and bitterness that tends to develop within a storyline where trust is broken in marriage. However, the author does a fabulous job with this novel and not once did I want to slap the heroine, as is often the case. The tension in The Perfect Life was realistically done and believable. The spiritual arc was fabulous and extremely honest. In short, I loved this story and highly recommend it, especially for couples who have discovered a lack of trust in their relationship." — via email 3/19/08 "I literally finished The Perfect Lifeon my lunch break at school this morning. Though Brad and Kat, along with their daughters faced incredible obstacles; I must confess I was glad that Brad was not unfaithful. Like many women, I've dealt with this on multiple levels with family, friends, colleagues, and personally. It was refreshing to read your latest work. I would have been content even if a divorce came into Brad and Kat's life; just knowing Brad had kept his vows. I hope that doesn't sound ludicrous. As always your work inspired and held me from word one. It's a shoo-in for my book club." — via email 3/3/08

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The Perfect Life: Katherine Clarkson has the perfect life. Married to Brad, a loving and handsome husband, respected in their church and the community. Two grown daughters on the verge of starting families of their own. A thriving ministry. Good friends. A comfortable life.
She has it all--until the day a reporter appears with shocking allegations. Splashed across the local news are accusations of Brad's financial impropriety at his foundation and worse, an affair with a former employee. Without warning, Katherine's marriage is shattered and her family torn apart. The reassuring words she's spoken to many brokenhearted women over the years offer little comfort now. Her world spinning, Katherine wonders if she can find the truth in the chaos that consumes her. How can she survive the loss of what she thought was the perfect life?

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My Bio:

Robin Lee Hatcher discovered her vocation as a novelist after many years of reading everything she could put her hands on, including the backs of cereal boxes and ketchup bottles. The winner of the Christy Award for Excellence in Christian Fiction (Whispers from Yesterday), the RITA Award for Best Inspirational Romance (Patterns of Love and The Shepherd's Voice), two RT Career Achievement Awards (Americana Romance and Inspirational Fiction), and the RWA Lifetime Achievement Award, Robin is the author of over 50 novels, including Catching Katie, named one of the Best Books of 2004 by the Library Journal. Robin enjoys being with her family, spending time in the beautiful Idaho outdoors, reading books that make her cry, and watching romantic movies. She is passionate about the theater, and several nights every summer, she can be found at the outdoor amphitheater of the Idaho Shakespeare Festival, enjoying Shakespeare under the stars. She makes her home outside of Boise, sharing it with Poppet the high-maintenance Papillon.

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If you are a blogger who has participated in The Perfect Lifeblog tour, please leave me a link to your blog in the comment section. I'd love to drop by for a visit.

-rlh-

handicapping the AI finalists

Ken Barnes at USA today handicapped the 12 American Idols finalists. I thought it good enough to post here, mostly so I can look back later. I will add that I think Mr. Barnes has called it pretty good:

•David Archuleta: His soaring vocals and gawky teen appeal combo makes him the one to beat.

•Jason Castro: A sleepy-looking sleeper with a supple folkie style.

•David Cook: Also-ran became front-runner this week when his Lionel Richie cover had the crowd at Hello.

•Kristy Lee Cook: Hasn't sung well yet but country twang may give her a secure niche for a few weeks.

•Chikezie Eze: Ruben Studdard-type style may be passé these days.

•David Hernandez: Impressive, imaginative singer may be able to weather controversy and reach the top half.

•Michael Johns: Early favorite seems to be coasting; needs to re-establish his early soulfulness.

•Ramiele Malubay: This year's Paris Bennett-type cute kid with a big voice needs to pick up the pace.

•Syesha Mercado: Strong vocal chops but may be too much of a generic soul diva to reach the top.

•Amanda Overmyer: The designated "rock chick" will fizzle on non-rock theme nights.

•Carly Smithson: Sings like a polished professional (and was one) — a top three contender.

•Brooke White: Underdog has cleverly gone against the diva grain and could stick around quite awhile.

the good and the bad of contests for writers

I spoke my mind about writing contests (for both unpublished and published) over on Seekerville today. Drop over if you feel so inclined.

-rlh-

idol 7: third four out

During American Idol season, I don't find time to blog about much else. But believe it or not, I do have a life, and I am busy working. This week, I finally got back into my rewrites after lots of rounds of edits on a different book and was feeling good about having some momentum. So what arrived today? Page proofs of my novel that comes out in May. So tomorrow I set aside the rewrites and begin going through the proofs. They should go pretty fast. At least I hope so or I'm going to have a hard time finishing my rewrites by the deadline.

Weather was beautiful here today (low 50's), so after lunch, Poppet and I went for a walk around the neighborhood. No coat necessary, just a sweatshirt. Oh, I am so ready for all out spring to arrive. We've got signs of trees beginning to green up so it shouldn't be too far away (despite the very cold mornings).

I read through all the info out of California about the iPhone. Looks like users will soon have new third party apps to choose from, probably by the end of June.

Now back to our regularly scheduled post:

No surprises at the very start of tonight's results show. David C., David A., and Jason went straight to the first three of the twelve seats. Next came the girls, and Brooke and Syesha moved to finalist seats. But Kady was sent home (as was predicted by many, me included).

Halfway through the show, and David H. made it over to the finalist chairs, followed by Michael. Luke was the next to stand up, and I figured he had to go, not just because of past performances but because no guy had left yet. I was right. He was someone I loved early on and wanted to do well, but once he was in the 24, he just never performed to the best of his ability. Chikezie and Danny are left waiting for results. (I predict Danny.)

Fifteen minutes left and Ramiele and Carly went straight to the finalist seats. Amanda followed soon after. Kristy and Asia'h were the final two. Which one? I was up in the air on this one. Could be either one. Turned out to be Asia'h. I would have swapped her with Amanda.

Down to barely five minutes to get the final results for the guys. And it was Danny going home. Chikezie looked super surprised.

So here, America, is your final 12. Good luck, kids!

idol 7: the girls (8)

My Idol watching was delayed while I drove my granddaughter and three of her volleyball team members home. I live on the west side of Boise and they all live on the east side. My granddaughter took my iPhone and they watched some funny YouTube videos during the drive. Lots of giggling (they're 14/15 year olds). Always an experience.

About an hour and a half later, I was home and able to play the recorded show. Here we go, the 80's for the girls.

Asia'h took on a Whitney song, and I thought she did a pretty good job of it. Simon didn't like it. Again, why criticize using Whitney as a comparison?

Kady was only so-so in my book. Not terrible but not a standout. I don't think she will make another week.

Amanda, who earlier this week made some internet list as one of the ten worst performances in Idol history, actually did a pretty good job tonight. But I still view her voice as very limited. She can do this type of rock song and nothing else. Judges love it and say this is her niche. But I want more from an Idol winner. I want great vocals week after week, not one good week with one type of song. However this may have saved her bacon for another week or two.

I liked Carly tonight. Great vocals, and she looked good, too. Simon didn't like the song choice, because he felt she was so much better than the song, so it was somewhat of a compliment.

Kristy gave a country touch to a Journey tune. Enjoyable but not a Wow! performance.

Ramiele went the ballad route. Not a great performance in my book. She could be in danger.

Brooke put a folksy spin on her song choice, Love is a Battlefield. I liked it lot. Simple with only a guitar backing her up. Good job.

Syesha brought the night to a close with another Whitney tune. I so want this girl to do well. I love her voice, her looks. She has an "it" factor going. I thought she handled this admirably enough, although it wasn't a blow-out performance. Should get in her in the top 12 however. Judges are out of time and say almost nothing.

Last night I listed only my top two guys, so I will do the same tonight. Syesha is edging out Carly by a hair as a favorite. Brooke gets the other slot.

idol thoughts on the girls delayed

For those readers who have told me they count on my blog for Idol feedback, you'll have to wait. I've got driving duties for three teenage girls, taking them home from volleyball practice, so will be watching Idol later on my DVR. Will post thoughts when I can.

Hoping it's a good show.

-rlh-

there is no more

I awakened at 4:00 this morning. After a bit of twisting and turning and futile attempts to go back to sleep, I rolled onto my back and turned on the bedroom TV. Somewhere in my sleep-fogged brain, I remembered being told that Beth Moore is on TV on Wednesdays at different times on different channels. As I'm not normally watching TV in the mornings, I've only caught her a time or two and then by accident. But I flipped through the Christian stations, and I found her on the James Robinson program.

What a blessing! She was speaking on the first miracle from John 2 when Jesus turned water into wine. I have always underscored Mary's words in my Bible when she says to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.” That's how I've strived to live my life, doing whatever Jesus tells me to do.

But Beth pointed out the first thing Mary said, which was to her Son: “They have no more wine.” Beth pointed out that Mary didn't tell Jesus how she wanted Him to fix the problem. She didn't give Him several options of how she thought it should be resolved. She simply stated the problem as fact. She left it up to God how to resolve it. Or even if He would resolve it.

Beth gave some wonderful examples of those kinds of prayers, and although these aren't exact quotes, they are what I took away from the message: "God, there is no more money." "Lord, there is no more job." "Father, there isn't one thing more we can try in this situation. We're all out of options." "Jesus, I have no more energy. I'm depleted." "Father, I'm spiritually dry. I'm all out of faith." "Jesus, there isn't a speck of creativity left in me."

There is no more. Period. You are God. Only You know how to take care of this. I trust in You, and I will do whatever You tell me to do.

Too often when I pray, I have in mind the exact way I want/hope/expect God to answer my prayers. Often I tell Him what those ways are. Expectations set us up for failure and disappointment, too. But my expectations are way less than all that He plans to accomplish. I want to begin praying this way more often. I want to silence my list of suggestions for quick fixes and instead simply tell Him my need.

There is such beauty in knowing that God loves me and wants the best for me. His plans for me are good and include prospering me, making me fruitful as I abide in the Vine. I can trust Him with all things, big and small. What a great way to begin my day, with that truth held close in my heart. I hope it blesses you, too.

In the grip of His grace,
Robin

idol 7: the boys (8)

While it wasn't mentioned on the show (since the shows are pre-taped), the big news hitting the wires is that David H. was a stripper in a mostly men's club leading up to his American Idol try-outs. Don't know if this will mean American Idol will oust him. I guess we will know on Thursday. But it saddens me, whether he stays or goes. And I wonder how the news will affect the votes tonight.

This is 80's week.

Luke was better this week, but I don't think he is among the best in the competition. He may hang in there awhile but I don't think he'll go the distance.

David A. was very good but it wasn't my favorite performance of his. Still, this kid is a phenom. I agree with Simon that he will be (or should be) in the final two. Simon also suggested that David pick some more upbeat songs, which I think was good advice.

Danny. I found nothing about this performance to make me want to vote for him. I thought it was a mess. Is it time for Danny to go home?

David H. did a good job, but I felt like I was listening and watching in a different way. Looking for flaws? Simon thought his performance assured him a spot in the final 12. Will it? The voters know something Simon didn't (I assume) when the show was taped.

Next up was Michael. Hmm. Didn't like the song choice. Randy and Paula really liked it. (And Paula was in a particularly babbling mood tonight.) Simon liked but didn't love it.

David C. sings an odd arrangement of Hello. I wasn't overly impressed, but the judges loved it. So what do I know?

I was beginning to wonder if I liked any of the music from the 80's. Then Jason sang Hallelujah. I loved this — right along with the judges. Simon called it "brilliant," and I agreed.

Chikezie brought 80's night for the boys to a finish. And I thought he did a good job, too. Maybe his 60's blunder was a one-time thing. But Simon didn't seem to like it just because Whitney Houston did the same song. Huh? If nobody should do a song Houston did, why offer it to them?

So the 80's are done for the guys.

My top two picks for the night are David A. and Jason, but there were a couple of others that were close on the heels of these guys.

Christian Fiction Monday

One of my dear buddies -- and a fellow member of the Big Honkin' Chicken Club (meaning we don't like scary books) -- has a new book out. I love Deborah Raney's books, and her many awards are well-deserved. So here's the scoop on her latest:

Leaving November is the second novel in the Clayburn Novels series from Howard/Simon & Schuster.

Daughter of the town drunk, Vienne Kenney has escaped Clayburn for law school in California. But after failing the bar exam—twice—she’s back home with her tail between her legs, managing Latte-dah, the Clayburn café turned upscale coffee shop. Jackson Linder runs the art gallery across the street and Vienne has had her eye on him since she was a skinny seventh grader and he was the hunky high school lifeguard who didn’t know she existed. Now it’s his turn to fall for her and suddenly Clayburn seems like a pretty nice place to be...until Vienne discovers that Jack is fresh out of rehab and still struggling with the same addiction that ultimately killed her father.

DEBORAH RANEY is at work on her seventeenth novel. Her books have won the RITA Award, the HOLT Medallion, National Readers' Choice Award and Silver Angel from Excellence in Media. Deborah's first novel, A Vow to Cherish , inspired the World Wide Pictures film of the same title. Deb serves on the advisory board of American Christian Fiction Writers. She and her husband, Ken Raney, have four children and enjoy small-town life in Kansas. Visit Deb on the web at www.deborahraney.com.