Taste and See

He Sees You...

He Sees You When You’re Sleepin’... By Dr. Charles W. Page Do you recall trying to sleep on Christmas Eve while waiting for Santa to come to town? The anticipation of Saint Nicolas and all his goodies was just too much—who could sleep? The lyrics of "Santa Claus is Coming to Town" taunted me. “He sees you when you’re sleeping—he knows when you’re awake…” I tossed and turned trying to fall asleep, fearful I’d miss out on Santa’s visit if he caught me awake. I never doubted Santa’s ability to be aware of my wakefulness. Unfortunately, as adults, the issues that keep us awake during the Christmas season are more complicated than those we experienced as kids. Financial burdens, strained relationships, difficult decisions, brooding regrets and fretful thoughts race through our minds and hinder our rest. There is someone who “sees you when you’re sleeping and knows when you’re awake.” It’s not Santa Claus. The Bible reminds us, God’s eyes never close. Perhaps this truth can tuck us in for the night. “He will not allow your foot to be moved; He who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, He who keeps Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep.” (Psalm 121:3-4) We erroneously think that as we “turn in” that God somehow “turns off” or moves on to do more important things. But God doesn’t wait for us to wake up before He returns to work. God is just as active during our sleep—or sleeplessness. Believers can rest assured knowing God is awake guarding our lives. What does God do as we slumber? Psalm 127:1-2 reminds us that God gives to those that He loves as they sleep. What does God give? Understanding God’s generous nature, one rendering would be that God gives to the believer whatever is needed at the time. God can give you wisdom and direction with decisions as you “sleep on it” overnight (Psalm 16:7, James 1:5). Maybe there is a financial need. The scriptures are filled with examples of how God provided for the physical needs of those He loved as they rested (I Kings 19:1-8; Exodus 16:1-8). God’s gifts are good, perfect (James 1:17), eternal (Ephesians 1:3) and purposeful (Galatians 5:22-25). They do not require batteries, warranties and cannot be purchased in stores. But they are available 24/7/365—not limited to one night each year. God’s greatest gift did not arrive under a tree but on a tree (John 3:16). “He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him freely give us all things?” (Romans 8:32) It’s plain to see, God has our back as we sleep. Try this Christmas recipe for rest. Repent—in areas where we are aware of our transgressions. “A clean conscience makes a soft pillow.” Release—control of problems you’re facing and give them over to God. Relate—connect with God through prayer and meditation while in bed. Rest—allow God to do what you cannot do for yourself as you sleep. Receive—God’s unmerited forgiveness, grace and blessings while you sleep. An English proverb reminds us, “As you make your bed so you must lie in it.” The truth of God’s Word helps us face our situations. Although we cannot change the failures of our past, we can rest with a clean conscience based on God’s gift of forgiveness. Our current circumstances may appear overwhelming, but God gives His presence and His guidance in our hour of need. Our future is secure and hopeful when God’s greatest gift—His Son—is kept in view. A life supported by a vibrant, healthy relationship with the Shepherd of Sleep makes the most comfortable mattress. In childlike faith learn to trust Him as you lie down to sleep and remember: “He sees you when you’re sleeping.” Author Bio

Charles W. Page, M.D. Dr. Charles W. Page is a sleep-deprived surgeon who completed medical school and residency at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas. Dr. Page is currently a rural surgeon and has taken numerous medical mission trips to South America and the Middle East. He and his wife Joanna live in Texas with their five children. He is the author of Surrendered Sleep: A Biblical Perspective. You can find more information at surrenderedsleep.com.

Surrendered Sleep A Biblical Perspective by Dr. Charles W. Page PUBLISHER: Camino Real Publishers ISBN-10: 0983138109 ISBN-13: 978-0983138105 PRICE: Paperback: $14.95; Ebook: $10.95 Available at: Amazon Surrendered Sleep

From Kathy Carlton Willis Communications If you enjoyed this article, you might like this post at Reflections in Hindsight. ~Lisa

Nike Chilemmi's Goodbye, Noel

JOHN 3:16 MARKETING NETWORK BOOK LAUNCH Monday, December 19, 2011 ASIN: B006LTHI1I by Nike Chillemi Will a young pediatric nurse be able to care for an infant whose mother was murdered and escape the killer who has struck again? The first body is found under a trimmed Christmas tree, the second as they ring in the New Year (1947), the third goes head long out a window. Will a young pediatric nurse determined to make it on her own be able to care for an infant whose mother was murdered and escape the killer who has struck again? Can she trust the stalwart village detective with her life and her heart as he works to catch this killer before somebody else dies? Pediatric nurse, Katrina Lenart, grew up strong willed and independent minded, while sharing her mother's flair for high fashion. When the police chief gives her an orphaned baby to care for, her maternal instincts take over and she's willing to fight anyone who might not have the infant's best interests at heart, even the man she's growing to love. After an attempt is made to kidnap the baby, she and the resolute village detective team up and do some sleuthing, undercover at a cult as well as at a fancy ball. Detective Ian Daltry is a widower with a child and is not interested in a new love. Hunting a killer who stops at nothing has placed him in the position where he must protect a beautiful young woman he's drawn to. Is there's something he's overlooked in analyzing the case? Will he find out what that is before this ruthless murderer kills someone he loves?

What Others Are Saying!  "Wow! Nike Chillemi knows how to set the hook into readers right from the first page and refuses to let go. GOODBYE NOEL is a taut thriller, peopled with intriguing characters and crafted by an author at the top of her game. Don't miss this one!" ~~ Robert Liparulo, award winning author of THE 13th TRIBE, COMES A HORSEMAN, GERM, and THE DREAMHOUSE KINGS "All I can say is WOW. I can see how Ms. Chillemi got her nickname of the Crime Fictionista. She sure does know how to build a story - and a crime plot... It's heartwarming, gut wrenching, edge of your seat intriguing, and just plain sweet all rolled into one. Check it out for yourself, it's a wonderful read!" ~~ Donna B. Snow, acclaimed author of DAFFODILS Nike Chillemi has been called a crime fictionista due to her passion for crime fiction. She was an Inspy Awards 2010 judge in the Suspense/Thriller/Mystery category and a judge in the 2011 Carol Awards in the suspense, mystery, and romantic suspense categories. She is the founding board member of the Grace Awards and its Chairman, a reader's choice awards for excellence in Christian fiction. She writes book reviews for The Christian Pulse online magazine. BURNING HEARTS is the first book in the crime wave that is sweeping the south shore of Long Island in The Sanctuary Point series, published by Desert Breeze. GOODBYE NOEL, the second book in the series will be released in December, 2011. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and the Edgy Christian Fiction Lovers (Ning). DON'T FORGET Monday, December 19, 2011, is the official launch day for Goodbye Noel by Nike Chillemi Visit Amazon to get your copy today!

Warring Sprits, by April Gardner great historical read

There’s a party going on!!

Historical fiction author April W Gardner is celebrating the release of Warring Spirits, the second book in her Creek Country Saga! Everyone who purchases Warring Spirits on Amazon on Thursday, December 15, 2011, will be entered into SIX different drawings for some cool and unique prizes. That’s right—ONE purchase. SIX chances to win.  CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS.

She’s also giving away personalized, signed book plates (labels for the inside cover). One for every book you purchase. That’s a lot of bang for your buck. Order today and cross a few names off your Christmas list! Head over there now to see what the hoopla is all about. So what’s this book about? Warring Spirits is the sequel to Wounded Spirits, April’s Grace Award winning debut novel.

Here’s a bit about today’s featured novel: 

Where blood is spilt, unexpected love may bloom. In 1816 Georgia, escaped slaves control the land just beyond the American border in Las Floridas. Lost somewhere between white and black worlds, Milly follows hope to the only place that can offer her refuge—the place Georgians are calling Negro Fort. The first, sweet taste of freedom convinces Milly that surrender is not an option. Death would be more welcome. Major Phillip Bailey has orders to subdue the uprising and return the runaways to their masters. Forced to fight alongside Creek warriors—the same who etched the scars into his mind and flesh—Phillip primes himself for battle.  But inside, a war already rages—return for the woman he thought lost to him or concede her to the enemy she loves; follow orders or follow his heart.

Sound intriguing?

Head over to APRIL'S PLACE to learn more! Or go straight to AMAZON to get your copy.

--April W Gardner is a multi-published author and the founder and senior editor of the fun literary site, Clash of the Titles.

She's visiting with us today. April, welcome!

Hi! Thanks for having me and for being such a vital part of this special day.

What made you choose to write about the Creek Indians?

My genealogy and the belief that Chief Red Eagle Weatherford is one of my greats prompted my research. It hasn’t been proven that he's family, but I don’t need proof to know that his life and that of his people are fascinating, inspiring, and sadly tragic.

Wow, I didn't know that. My dad thinks some of our ancestors might have been Sauk, but we haven't been able to prove it.
What would you say is your most interesting writing quirk?  

Does plotting in the shower count? I really do my best plotting in the morning under a steaming hot shower. Our water bill doesn’t appreciate it, but my heroes do! 

Well, I plotted Meander Scar in Yosemite, and do a lot of thinking while mowing lawn or bouncing on the treadmill.
Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.

I backed into my husband’s car, crunching the bumpers of both vehicles. Twice. In three months. I can solve a Rubik Cube. Takes me ten minutes, but I can do it. It’s my only claim to braininess. I collect antiquarian books.

Oh, my. The year we turned forty was a toughie in our house. Hubby backed into me, Andy into church, and I front-ended a trailer hitche and sideswiped a highway marker. If you could open your own retail store, what type of merchandise would you sell?

Is it cheating to say books? LOL I’d love to open a coffee shop/used book store. As an author, I’m supposed to loath used books, but I can’t help myself. Used books are the best! Used books plus coffee…utopia.

So, here's my cue to tell everyone who lives in Colorado that Written World Communications will be open for business with your dream store--coming soon. What themes do you like to write about?

I get a thrill at finding an intriguing bit of history buried by time and lost to most. Any setting will do, although I prefer it be American. It’s important to know where we’ve come from and who carved our country into what it is.

What other books do you have in the works?

Next up is the release of the first book my children’s historical adventure series, Lizzie and the Guernsey Gang. It takes kids 9+ back to 1940 and the Nazi invasion of Guernsey Island, UK. The book is based on the events in the life of Ruth Davies, my friend and sister in Christ. It’s a history lesson and story of faith wrapped up in an enticing adventure, and I can’t wait to share it! Head over to April's site to see what all the hoopla's about!

About April: April W Gardner resides in Georgia with her USAF husband and two sweet kiddos. She is the author of the historical romance series, the Creek Country Saga, as well as the children’s adventure series, the Channel Islands Resistance. She is the founder and senior editor of the fun literary website, Clash of the Titles. In her free time, April enjoys reading, organizing, and DIY. In no particular order, she dreams of owning a horse, visiting all the national parks, and speaking Italian.

Kia ora! New From Splashdown...

From Grace Bridges:

Kia ora everyone! Boy, have we got a lot going on at Splashdown this month! Want one of our paperbacks for less than $3.00? Read on...

But first, our latest release, this time from the strange realms of science fiction:

Caffeine, by Ryan Grabow

"Supernatural: above, beyond, in excess of nature. If the meaning of life cannot be found in nature, then I must determine if the answer lies beyond it."

In an authoritarian and overstimulated 22nd-century America, all Brandon can do to relieve his pain is indulge in the computer-simulated fantasies of a network called Dynamic Reality...until a virus takes control of the simulation. A philosophical thrill ride like no other - don't miss this one.

Ebook Sale: As of right now through Sunday night, all our ebooks are priced at $2.99 - including our November new releases. That's a saving of at least 50% - Come on in and grab your choice! Kindle books are discounted direct at Amazon and all are collected HERE in our Amazon store; if you'd like a different format, just say the word and we'll send you a voucher.

Fred Warren's Feast

Not only did we release Fred's second novel, The Seer, just a few weeks ago. Now, Amazon is discounting his short story collection in paperback, Odd Little Miracles! At the time of writing the price had fallen to $2.78, and it's even eligible for their 4-for-3 special - which means you can get four real paper copies for under $9.00. The perfect odd little gift for, well, just about anyone! But don't dally - Amazon is notorious for changing prices around at their whim. This discount is not under our control, so get it while the gettin's good!

By the way, the same 4-for-3 promotion also applies to Aquasynthesis, our collection of stories from all Splashdown authors to date. Something for all reading tastes, with companion stories to many of our novels.

~Grace and the team at Splashdown

Nickels, by Karen Baney

Nickels by Karen Baney

Niki Turner has finally arrived.  Her career as a Software Engineer is soaring—she has just been offered the company’s most sought after account, Helitronics.  Life would be perfect, if she could stop her roommate from playing matchmaker.

Then Kyle Jacobs mysteriously re-enters her life.  As painful memories resurface, his presence turns her life upside down and threatens to waylay her career.  She must find a way to work with him—after all, he’s the helicopter flight consultant for the new flight control system she’s coding.

Can she forget the past and see him as the new man he has become?  Or will her resentment keep her from finding what she has always been searching for?

Who is Niki Turner?  Character Marcy Jacobs, Niki’s best friend and roommate, stops by to give us the inside scoop.

Marcy, How long have you known Niki Turner?

About twelve years now.  My family was living on Ramstein Air Force Base in Germany when she came to live with her brother who was stationed there.  I was in high school, a sophomore, I think.  I could tell instantly that she didn’t fit in.  She seemed out of place with all of us military brats.  So I made it my mission to befriend her.

Wow.  That’s a long time, especially for someone in their mid-twenties.  How did you end up in Arizona as roommates?

Niki had a house here—that’s a long and sad story.  Anyway, we decided to go to Arizona State University together.  We lived in her house throughout college.  Still do even though we graduated four years ago.  She majored in Computer Science.  My degree is in Marketing.

So is she a geek then?

Laughs.  Don’t let her hear you say that.  Although, she might be flattered.  She’s certainly not the stereotype for a computer programmer.  She can actually carry on a conversation for more than a minute without feeling uncomfortable.  Niki is very bright.  Her career is really starting to take off.

Rumor has it that you’ve decided she should meet a man.

Yes.  She’s been lonely for too long.  We’re both 26—well, she will be soon—and we’re not getting any younger.  I’m one of those gals that has life mapped out on a schedule.  I just want to make sure my best friend isn’t left behind.  I would love to see her meet a guy and fall madly in love.  That’s why I’ve been hounding all my girl friends for any eligible single guys they’d recommend.  She’s bound to fall in love with one of them.

Do you know what Niki’s plans are for Christmas?

Probably head out to the other side of town at my parents house.  We both usually go.  Oooo.  If Kyle is coming, that might be a surprise for her…

--Sounds absolutely fascinating, Karen! Thank you and Marcy and Niki for stoping by!

About the author, Karen Baney

Karen Baney, in addition to writing Christian historical fiction and contemporary novels, works as a Software Engineer.

When she’s not busy writing, she enjoys traveling the state of Arizona with her husband, exploring museums and the picturesque landscapes the state has to offer.

Her faith plays an important role both in her life and in her writing. Karen and her husband make their home in Gilbert, Arizona, with their two dogs.  She also holds a Masters of Business Administration from Arizona State University.

Visit her web site.

Visit her on Facebook.

Join Karen and 9 other Christian authors as they celebrate the release of her new novel, Nickels,  on December 13.

This is the Christmas Gift You've Been Waiting For

I wasn't biased before I was asked to help work on it. I loved it from the moment the concept was born. I loved it when I started reading a proof copy with typos. I adored the gorgeous, perfectly designed interior.

You will too.
Have someone hard to gift this season of giving? Need a lift yourself? A half-hour getaway every once in a while? Stories from the poignant to bust a gut laughing, everyone will enjoy this book

Try this: Christmas Campfire Companion.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Iowan small press, Port Yonder Press, is pleased to announce the release of the

CHRISTMAS CAMPFIRE COMPANION.

Join 14 of today’s top western authors in this definitive collection. Stories by L. J. Washburn, Troy D. Smith, Frank Roderus, Tim Champlin, Larry D. Sweazy, Robert Vaughan, Douglas Hirt, Dusty Richards, Kerry Newcomb, Matthew P. Mayo, Robert Randisi, Rod Miller, James Reasoner, and Terry Burns in this heartwarming collection of Christmas stories in a western setting. Beautifully illustrated. Rated PG for some language.

Edited by Chila Woychik, managing editor at Port Yonder Press, Shellsburg, Iowa. 319-436-3015.

The Christmas Campfire Companion

ISBN: 9781935600084 (Softcover, $12.95)

ISBN: 9781935600107 (Trade Cloth $15.95)