Many years ago, I started writing. At first, in journals for my eyes only. Then, in the late '90s, when blogs became a thing, I started - and stopped - several. I wrote for myself, and no one subscribed - mainly because no one knew about them - but it was a way for me to get my heart on paper. Then, when my kids were born, I wrote a blog to give those in our family who were out of town (and out of the country) a connection with what was happening in our little tribe. It became a way for me to share real daily life and what God was helping me learn. I remember at one point sharing some vulnerable 'I-don't-feel-equipped' feelings that every mother feels on that blog and thinking - huh - I wonder what it would be like to actually write words that people would want to read outside of my family.
Fast forward another 10 years, and I was regularly posting on Instagram lengthy monologues about life and parenting and marriage and what God was teaching me along the way. I had no significant following, but it felt nice to be able to say things, and every now and then, people would reach out and say that it was impactful for them.
Writing seemed safe to me. (Remember - I'm an introvert). I could say things behind pen and screen, which allowed the space of thought and tact that I might not be brave enough or quick enough on my feet to express in person. Occasionally, I would write these thoughts in longer forms and share them with close friends. My friends were kind and read or listened to my words, and gave feedback. A few of those monologues eventually grew legs. They turned into full-blown teachings that I shared (while shaking in my shoes) at conferences and roundtables and even printed in a few articles.
About two years ago, I sat across a table from two dear friends who had kindly read my words for years, and I told them, "I'm going to write a book, and I need you to hold me to it." Instead of smiling and giving me the "that's a nice idea" smile that I inwardly expected, they both broke into broad smiles and laugh-cheered, and one shouted, "Let's Go!" in only the way he could.
We all need cheerleaders in our lives. Not to puff you up, but to pick you up, hand you the pen, again and again, point you to paper, and help remind you of what God has said and promised and done.
From that day to this, I have been working on my first book.
This blog has become the bare bones of what will be full-blown words in an actual paper book. And while I still don't consider myself an author, and not sure when that would ever feel right to say, thanks to your encouragement here and on social media at @waitingonwonders, you've given me the "Let's Go" every week that I need to do it.
So, drum roll, please... I'M WRITING THIS BOOK.
I'll unpack in the coming weeks what this will look like and how even in the last few days, that has changed, how we will roll it out, all.the.things. But for now - y'all, please pray! There are many behind-the-scenes details where I need your prayers and wisdom, and encouragement.
Friends - I need you more than ever. If you've ever been encouraged by my words, now is the time to lend your support! It's going to take every bit of "Let's Go" encouragement to get this done and out in the world. You have no idea how much your weekly comments, notes, and Instagram shares keep me going. If you are interested in being a part of the Waiting on Wonders book launch crew, let me know! I'd love to have your help in a variety of ways.
I don't pretend I'm a NY Times Best Selling author, but I know that God has given me words to say, and I'm taking steps to be obedient to get them out of my heart and onto paper. I feel called to write words that cause people to pause and experience God's presence in the everyday. This is the way I feel called to encourage you. Everyday worship. Everyday moments. Waiting on all the wonders He has for us.
I'll keep sharing updates and sharing encouragement right here each week; you keep sharing encouragement and passing along these posts to people who you think could benefit from some small pauses and experiencing God in new, unconventional ways.
Remember, fellow Wait-ers, he's always speaking...let's be found listening.
You're the best - much love from the writing room,
-TB
"So support one another. Keep building each other up as you have been doing" - 1 Thessalonians 5:11
P.S. You can click HERE and be taken to a little form where you can sign up to get info on the release when it happens.