For the fifth year in a row, Northwestern Bookstores invited us to Minnesota to do some holiday book-signing events for them. This year they hosted us in three different stores over a brisk December weekend in the Twin Cities.
Setting up on a frosty Saturday morning (see photo) we had no idea what to expect. Yet once again, Minnesotans proved among the friendliest and most supportive people on this little blue planet. Once again we were busy at all three stores, meeting new people and connecting with lifelong friends.
So many blessings! Martin dropping by when we were busy in Woodbury, seeing a crowd at our table. His response? He disappeared briefly, then came back with coffee and muffins for us --- just exactly the boost we needed (caffeine is one of our key food groups) on a long afternoon. Where do such friends come from? Thank you, Martin --- We are unworthy.
Andrea the world-traveler. Off to Brazil for the holidays, but she drove from Minneapolis over to the far side of St. Paul, stopping by our book table to catch up. She's finishing up an M.B.A. --- Watch out, world! Her intellect and energy will bless all her future employers.
Alyssa and Andrew, newly engaged. Correction: Newly betrothed. We tried to discern the difference. Andrew's take on it? "If I was engaged, I could still back out of it. When I'm betrothed, that means I have to follow through and get married. I'm already committed." Their radiant smiles brightened our bookmarks and gladdened our hearts!
Molly with daughter Patty. Molly is one of the smartest and best single moms we've met along our journey. She's building a career in law enforcement and currently applying to join the force in a nearby Minnesota community. Note to that community: HIRE HER. Molly is bright, honest, hard-working, and very wise.
Rachel whose marriage is featured in the intro of our book "The Soul-Mate Marriage." Busy raising two great kids, Rachel got up early on a Saturday morning and drove many miles to see us. We've known her since before the marriage, before the kids, before so much of life.
Our good friend Naomi with two adopted sons, launching a career in social work. Naomi, we are so proud of you! Paul and Pauline, married these many years, looking young and energetic as always. Trent and Melissa, Michael and Alice, Curt and Lori --- all these and more. What a blessing to connect with each one of you. Here's a hint: It's not about the books, it's about continuing our lifelong friendship with you and your families.
Rising well before dawn to meet a looming deadline, there are moments when writing can be a lonely profession. Is anybody out there? Will anyone read these words? After a busy weekend meeting readers old and new, we are refreshed, renewed, encouraged. As long as God gives us breath, we'll do our best to help marriages be stronger, families be healthier, parents be less stressed and more successful.
We'll keep writing --- and we'll keep being grateful when people show up to say thanks. Speaking of thanks --- our thanks to the good people of Northwestern Bookstores for creating such a fun holiday tradition. We are grateful!
From the journey ----- 2 writers.
