Here’s a few of my holiday music MUST HAVE’s from four incredible artists! Check out the full list on my blog at Delilah.com
Music MUST Have's!
TWO Great Books | December Book Club
Roasted Brussel Sprouts with Balsamic-Honey Glaze
My oldest son hosted our Thanksgiving dinner this year. Well, what I really mean to say is that my daughter-in-law hosted Thanksgiving dinner this year.
While Isaiah works hard to provide for his family, so does Riely, and let’s face it, she’s the one that does the majority of the holiday prep.
Nearly 40 guests were invited into their gorgeous new home, where we feasted on not one, but two, delicious smoked turkeys. I brought the mashed potatoes and pumpkin dump cake; all other the sides, salads, and desserts were provided by the rest of the grateful guests.
The roasted Brussel sprouts with a balsamic-honey glaze were a stand out!
Ingredients:
2lbs Brussel sprouts, trimmed and halved.
1/4 cup Olive oil
1 teaspoon each:
garlic powder
thyme
oregano
paprika
black pepper, and
sea salt
Glaze
1/4 cup Balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup Honey
Directions:
Place prepared Brussel sprouts in a large bowl, toss with olive oil and seasonings until evenly coated (add or subtract seasonings as you desire, you know me, I use recipes as guides!)
Spread seasoned sprouts on a shallow baking pan and place in preheated 425 degree oven.
Meanwhile - combine vinegar and honey in saucepan and heat until mixture begins to reduce and thicken.
Roast sprouts until tender and some have begun to blacken - about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally.
Remove from oven, drizzle glaze over the top, stir to coat and return to oven for approximately 5 more minutes.
Serve hot.
Add cooked bacon or sausage crumbles to the roasting mixture if desired.
Even the kids gobbled these tasty little morsels up! They are super easy to prepare and a nutritious side to any family meal, but fancy enough to serve at your holiday dinner party!
(If you’re as lucky as me, after dinner you’ll get a live musical performance! Because, while my son may not be a domestic wonder, he - and our good friend Sharif - can sure play guitar and sing!)
Enjoy!
2018's 12 Stockings of Christmas Sweepstakes
Christmas is in the air! And ON the air!
Amidst the holly jolly jingles, I’m bringing my 12 Stockings of Christmas out again and hanging them, stuffed full of incredible prizes, along my fireplace hearth, until YOU have won one of them!
Just so you know what will be coming your way if you win (I mean, don’t we all hate to get fun prizes unless we can mentally prepare how we’ll use them? lol) here’s a run-down on a few of my favorite things, that I hope will become your favorites as well!
It works like this: On each of the days noted in the list below, I will feature one great product on my show. Text, or use the code word for each product on the Sweepstakes web page, to be entered to win ALL the items on my list. I’ll be giving away 12 sweepstakes packages to 12 lucky winners.
You may enter as often as you wish, via the 12 Stockings of Christmas Entry Page, or by texting 48484.
November 23rd
BALSAM HILL - $100 Gift Voucher
Keyword: HILL or STOCKING
Balsam Hill has been the leading retailer of highly realistic artificial Christmas trees and holiday décor for over a decade, and do I LOVE their products! That’s why I’m bringing them back to my 12 Stocking of Christmas Sweepstakes.
They have beautiful décor for your year-round needs; fantastic fall displays, signature Christmas trees, elegant ornament sets, flickering flameless candles, and a gorgeous spring floral line. My studio always looks amazing with Balsam Hill décor! I was just visiting the Hallmark Channel and their set is also filled with beautiful Balsam Hill decorations.
Balsam Hill have been consistent supporters of my foundation, Point Hope, for the last 4 years, and I’m so grateful. For beautiful holiday décor, you owe it to yourself to visit Balsamhill.com. Shopping for the perfect Christmas and seasonal décor is just a click away!
BALSAM HILL
12 Stockings Entry Page
November 26th
COMPANY STORE - $75 Gift Card
Keyword: COMPANY or STOCKING
You know what store had been around for over 100 and has set the standard in quality bedding, bath, and décor for your home? The Company Store, that’s who, and I am so excited to welcome them back as one of my sponsors in my 12 Stockings of Christmas Sweepstakes.
They carry the cutest FAMILY pajamas, (I just ordered my families) and beautiful holiday décor; they even have great products for your pets. I love everything they have from their down comforters, pillows that are still made in the USA to their towels and sheets. Your family holiday wish list can be taken care of in one click! Have family or friends coming this holiday get ready by freshening up the linens in the bedrooms and bathrooms with beautiful accessories from THE COMPANY STORE.COM.
They’re great for last minute shopping because they have guaranteed delivery by Christmas if you order by 10am (ET) December 21st (see website for details). They’ve been all about COMFORT since 1911!
THE COMPANY STORE
12 Stockings Entry Page
November 27
for KING & COUNTRY, Burn the Ships & Christmas | Live from Phoenix, CD’s
Keyword: KING or STOCKING
Maybe you’ve heard for KING & COUNTRY played on my radio program? You’ve told me how much you love their music and how breathtaking they are to experience in concert. Lucky you, because I’m adding autographed copies of their new CD, “Burn the Ships” http://smarturl.it/BurnTheShipsAlbum and their holiday release, “Christmas | Live from Phoenix.” http://smarturl.it/ fKCChristmasLive. to my 12 Stockings of Christmas Sweepstakes.
If you don’t know them you should; their music is both uplifting and spiritual, singing about the reason for the season. (They have the MOST amazing version of “The Little Drummer Boy”) They’re on tour this holiday season and if they come to your town they are not to be missed. You can check out their music and tour schedule at for KING & COUNTRY’s web site. Both albums are available everywhere.
for KING & COUNTRY
12 Stockings Entry Page
November 29th
TRAIN: Greatest Hits & Christmas in Tahoe, CD’s
Keyword: TRAIN or STOCKING
I’m welcoming eight-time Grammy nominated TRAIN back to my 12 Stockings of Christmas with, “TRAINS Greatest Hits” https://fanlink.to/traingreatesthits. The new album comes fresh off a sold-out summer tour with Hall and Oats and celebrates 20 years of TRAIN music. It pulls together 16 fan-favorites including “Drops of Jupiter,” “Calling All Angels,” and “Hey Soul Sister” as well as a special cover of a Pat Monahan favorite, George Michael’s “Careless Whisper.” featuring the amazing saxophonist, Kenny G.
I’m also including their wonderful Christmas album, “Christmas in Tahoe,” https://fanlink.to/christmasintahoe that’s filled with holiday classics we’ve come to love. It’s no surprise that TRAIN has had 12 albums on Billboard’s Top 200! Keep them in mind when you’re shopping for the music fan on your list, and be sure and pick up copies of each CD for yourself. .
Put a little TRAIN underneath your Christmas tree this holiday season! They are incredible supporters of Point Hope, and I love them!
TRAIN’S GREATEST HITS
CHRISTMAS IN TAHOE
12 Stockings Entry Page
December 3rd
SIA, Everyday is Christmas CD
Keyword: SIA or STOCKING
“Everyday is Christmas,” from Sia, is also making it’s way into my 12 Stockings of Christmas Sweepstakes. It’s composed of 10 original songs created by Sia and producer Greg Kurstin. You’ll hear last year’s favorite “Santa’s Coming For Us,” as well as her latest single “Candy Cane Lane”.
The singer has reached into her soul, by writing and composing some modern- day holiday songs that will certainly become classics, like, “Underneath the Mistletoe”, “Sunshine,” the title track “Everyday is Christmas” and the so- adorable-it-can’t-be-real “Puppies Are Forever.”
“Everyday is Christmas” has a song for everyone this holiday season, perfect for your holiday playlist and your favorite persons Christmas stocking.
SIA: EVERYDAY IS CHRISTMAS
12 Stockings Entry Page
December 6th
INSTAX CAMARA
Keyword: FUJI or STOCKING
One of my favorites from last year’s 12 Stockings of Christmas, the FUJIFILM Instax Camera, is back! Did you know I use it when I go to Africa for Point Hope? The children love walking away with their pictures in hand.
The INSTAX is a great stocking stuffer, perfect for capturing every moment of every special occasion; birthday celebrations, weddings, parties and CHRISTMAS MORNING. Just snap and watch the pictures develop instantly. There are Instax pictures all over my house of the kids, the dogs, and our farm animals too.
Put some fun in your holiday stocking this Christmas by sharing an original with Fujifilm Instax SQ6 Square Camera!
INSTAX CAMERA
12 Stockings Entry Page
December 7th
DELILAH’S BOOK: ONE HEART AT A TIME
Keyword: HEART or STOCKING
If you’ve tuned in to the show lately, you know I’ve written a new book, One Heart At A Time, released on October 16. It was a labor of love, and became even more so after the loss of my beloved son, Zachariah, the previous year. Writing stopped for a while, but telling his story became such a pressing need that I pressed on, finished the book, and created a new chapter just about him.
But the book is more than that. This is my story and my plea. The world is facing some trying times, we are more disconnected and lonelier than ever before. How do we change it? One. Heart. At. A. Time.
I’ve included an autographed copy in each of my 12 Stockings this year with the hope that you will enjoy it and it will inspire you to reach out and help me change the world. All we need is love and a heart that is willing to serve.
ONE HEART AT A TIME
12 Stockings Entry Page
December 10th
GRAVITY BLANKET
Keyword: BLANKET or STOCKING
Let me introduce you to something I’ve just discovered, the Gravity Blanket. Are you hosting relatives, cooking over-the-top meals, spending hours shopping for gifts, and feeling that holiday stress? You need a Gravity Blanket! It’s a weighted blanket that’s designed to help improve sleep and decrease stress and anxiety.
I gave one to my daughter, Shaylah - baby Rosalie’s mama - and she loves it. A Gravity Blanket is the best gift you can give someone who deserves some rest and relaxation this holiday season and all year through.
Buy yours today and use the promo code ‘DELILAH’ for 15% savings.
GRAVITY BLANKETS
12 Stockings Entry Page
December 11th
PEACHSKIN SHEETS
Keyword: PEACH or STOCKING
The name says it all! Original PeachSkinSheets® are so comfortable and soothing! That’s why I’m adding them to my 12 Stockings of Christmas this year! They start at $55 for a complete sheet set, even King size! They won't change body chemistry of course, but they will help keep hot sleepers cooler, drier, and more comfortable during the night. (For women at a certain stage of life, this is heaven!)
PeachSkinSheets® are made from a breathable, athletic grade, performance SMART fabric that wicks away moisture and dries super fast. These ultra-soft, pill-resistant bed sheets also have a luxurious 1500 Thread Count level of softness due to their brushed PeachSkin finish on both sides.
Order free swatches of 19 colors online so that you can Feel to Believe, and purchase with confidence under their 30 day, risk free money back guarantee!
PEACHSKIN SHEETS
12 Stockings Entry Page
December 12th
SALONTECH SPINSTYLE
Keyword: PERFECT or STOCKING
I fell in love with the SPINSTYLE last year so it just makes sense to add it to my 12 Stockings of Christmas. The perfect gift, SalonTech’s patented Technology Curl Dial works like an extra set of hands to pick up, separate, and guide hair around the barrel, to create easy, fast, and tangle free curls with one hand (just make sure the hair is brushed through!). From tight bouncy curls to loose, voluptuous, beachy waves at the touch of a button, the SpinStyle takes half the time of a regular curling iron.
I do my hair in the morning and I am set for the entire day! I have one for home and one for travel. It makes for the perfect stocking stuffer, and my listeners can get an exclusive, special offer through SpinStyle.
SPINSTYLE
12 Stockings Entry Page
December 13th
CALUM SCOTT: Only Human CD
Keyword: HUMAN or STOCKING
New music is the perfect gift for everyone! I’m adding Calum Scott’s amazing debut album to the goodies in my stockings. You’ve heard “You Are the Reason” played on my show, and have seen the heartfelt video on my Facebook page. The entire album is filled with music meant to connect people.
Calum is quoted, “I wrote this album with the intention of connecting with people all around the world, using my own personal experiences.” Every song on Only Human evokes wonderful emotion and his videos too are beautiful and emotive.
You won’t go wrong by adding Calum’s Only Human to the list of What To Buy for your favorite people this holiday season.
ONLY HUMAN
12 Stockings Entry Page
December 17th
STEVE PERRY, TRACES CD
Keyword: TRACES or STOCKING
I am so excited to add one of the most anticipated albums of the year to my 12 Stockings of Christmas! I’m talking about Steve Perry’s new album “Traces” of course. It’s his first new music in nearly a quarter of a century, and it’s available everywhere NOW.
“Traces” is the legendary singer-songwriter’s most honest and vulnerable release to date, chronicling love, loss, and, ultimately, hope. Perry leads with the track “No Erasin” and reassuringly greets fans with the opening line “I know it’s been a long time comin’.” The track is an emotional homecoming; everyone is celebrating his new music. Forbes Magazine exclaims “for all of music it is damn good to have the Steve Perry back.” I couldn’t agree more.
“Traces” has received critical acclaim from many, including USA Today, who highlighted it as one of “10 Albums You Need Too Hear This Fall.” Take yourself and someone special on the emotional journey of “Traces.”
STEVE PERRY: TRACES
12 Stockings Entry Page
December 19th
ALMOND ROCA
Keyword: ROCA or STOCKING
My 12 Stockings of Christmas just aren’t complete until I’ve added my favorite candy, Almond ROCA. This delicious treat brings back the fondest childhood memories of Christmas’ past, and I love giving, and getting into, those pink tins all year long!
Brown and Haley make every batch of ROCA with rich creamy butter, California almonds, and the best quality chocolate! Choose from Almond, Cashew, Dark Chocolate, Sea Salt Caramel, Peppermint, and Mocha ROCA. SO YUMMY!! They have something for EVERYONE.
This holiday season, whether looking for gifts for your office party, your child’s favorite teacher, or sweet treat for yourself, remember, every stocking should be filled with Almond ROCA on Christmas morning. Visit them online or find them at local retailers.
ALMOND ROCA
12 Stockings Entry Page
Adoption | One Way to Build a Family
My new book, One Heart At A Time, was released on October 16.
So much attention since has been placed on my unusually large number of children, and I’ve lost count on how many time I’ve answered the how and why questions.
For all the big and small details (and so much more!) pick up a copy of my book! For a quick run-down, and to know why I feel so passionately about adoption, read this blog post.
A family gathering a few years ago - not even close to a complete showing!
Here’s the short answer to the questions: I had three biological children from two of my marriages, and I have adopted 10 children (number 11 in process.) My husband, Paul, has 5 children of his own. So that brings my number to 14, and our combination to 19.
The longer version is this:
I’ve always wanted to be a mother. When I married at 22 I couldn’t wait to make my new family of “me and you” into “baby makes three.” My husband was a divorced father of 2 children already and not one that you wouldn’t exactly define as present or available. I knew I could change that. Ha!
Sonny and I - or Robin Hood and Maid Marion…
At 24, I gave birth to Isaiah, “Sonny” as his dad called him… He is my Number 1, my first child, the miracle that made me a mama!
Fast forward 9 years later - my husband had found greener pastures around Sonny’s 2nd birthday and I had been a single mother since.
My job in radio had taken me from Seattle to Boston, and then on to Philadelphia. While in Boston I’d met a young man in a church group that was cute, charming, loved to laugh, and loved the Lord. I married him, glossing over the fact that he was 8 years younger, lived with his parents, and his fine set of wheels was - a bicycle. Soon after, I was thrilled to be pregnant with Shaylah, my baby number 2.
A few years later we were back in Seattle, Me, Sonny, Shay, and Doug. The marriage was shaky but I was determined to make it work. I was feeling that the 10 year gap between Sonny and Shaylah was too much and I thought about adoption. By thinking about it, I mean I moved forward, looking for a child to love, to embrace, to ‘fill out our family’. We were introduced to a boy, one year younger than Sonny, and learned about “twinning,” matching up children that are of similar age to one you already have in your home, which helps the bonding process. And so, enter my child #3, Emmanuell.
A single mother of 8!
Manny, we soon learned, had two younger siblings in a foster-care situation. Of course they could come for visitations… of course you may call me Mom while you’re here… and when their foster family had a crisis and they needed to be re-homed, of course that home had to be ours. The month that Tangi and TJ (#’s 4 & 5) moved in with us? Of course I find out I’m pregnant!
When Zachariah, my third bio-babe and number 6 to join the family, was born, we’d gone from a family of four, to a family of eight in less than a two year period of time. Eight is great, but not so much for Shay and Zack’s dad.
In all fairness, I hadn’t given his push-back much consideration. I worked and provided for the family, I was willing to put in the late nights and early mornings, and anxiety isn’t a word in my personal vocabulary, so the fact that he was completely and totally overwhelmed didn’t really register. Two years later the marriage ended.
Soon after, I got a call from a friend who was an adoption facilitator. There was a toddler in need of a home, STAT. I drove to the parking lot of a local teriyaki restaurant; TK was placed into my arms and clung to me tightly. He was just a year younger than Zacky, and became child number 7.
My radio program had been syndicated for a while and my career was taking off. The older kids were transitioning out of the house and I found a farm (a life-long dream) to move myself and the three left at home to. Just three. Shaylah, now aged 12, Zacky 7, and TK 6. I renovated the farmhouse and built three bedrooms for three kids. One. Two. Three.
My Angel and my Blessing.
And oh… I dated a wonderful man briefly, a pastor with a young adult daughter who had a baby of her own. I fell in love with this earnest young woman, who had never had a mother in her life… Adult adoption? Yeah, it’s a thing. Lonika, my number 8, has never lived with me but became my daughter when she was well into her 20’s, and, I gained a granddaughter close to the boy’s age, all in one fell-swoop!
Bridget with Sammy, who is now in Heaven.
This plan was working until my attention was steered toward a Liberian refugee camp in Ghana, West Africa. Point Hope was re-born and soon I brought into my home and heart, Angel and Blessing, welcomming numbers 9 and 10! Surely this was enough!
Nooooo, because a few years later, Sammy, (#11) who had spent 15 years in an orphanage, and Bridget (#12) who had a personal horror story she shouldn’t have even survived, wandered into my life, my heart, and my home.
And then Blessings little sister, Delilah, my Lucky 13, whom I had been taking care of in Africa, became critically ill, and the birth mother, critically uncaring.
And then their little brother, Baby Paul - whom I was also caring for in Africa, and who had been dropped off with Point Hope personnel because their mother had decided he too, was not worth her time or attention.
And here I am - a mother of 14 (or will be as soon as Bae Paul’s process is complete).
Before bringing Sammy and Bridget home, I married Paul. We’d dated for 6 years and as a father of 5 grown children, he was looking forward to a child-free retirement. Hahaha!
He loves this crazy menagerie as much as me and is so stinkin’ in love with Baby Delilah and Baby Paul, to whom he is their Papa.
Last week I found myself in Washington DC, speaking to the US Senate Committee on Foreign Relations about the crisis facing inter-country adoptions. It was important to me to be there, and share my story, because International adoptions have slowed to a trickle - down over 80% since 2004 and may cease all together. This means there are hundred of thousands of children that need homes. Children who are the victims of civil war, disease, famine… Children that have been ostracized because of physical or mental impairments, which are looked upon as a cursed in many societies... Children born female, which don’t have the same value as males…
When I completed my first international adoption in 2006, my children were two of 26,000 adopted from foreign countries. last year there was 4,200. This is a crisis.
I was also given the great honor of being inducted into the National Council for Adoptions, Adoption Hall of Fame, for my support of, commitment to, and involvement with building my family through the process of adoption and for founding Point Hope, a voice for forgotten children.
“Another alarming reality; 80% of children - boys especially - who have spent time in the foster care system will be in jail before age 25.”
Here’s some statistics on the US foster care system that will shock you. There are over 486,000 in the foster care system right now. About 20,000 “aged-out” last year; that is, they reached the age of 18 (20 in some places,) were turned out of the temporary living placements they’d been given, and financial support ended. I ask people, “How many of you have an 18-25 year old child? Are they ready to be 100% self reliant? Who do they call when a tooth breaks, when their heart breaks, when they’ve been in a fender bender?” Another alarming reality; 80% of children - boys especially - who have spent time in the foster care system will be in jail before age 25.
I am passionate about this! There are so many ways to build a family. Adoption is one.
You don’t have to be rich, married, or perfect. If you are at all interested in helping a child in the foster care system and providing a forever home, please don’t hesitate to do the research and make the connections!
Here’s a link to get started:
Adopt USKids
My book, One Heart At A Time, is available for purchase everywhere books are sold, and through the website HERE.
A Healing Justice | November Book Club
A Healing Justice by Kristin Von Kreisler, is my book club pick for November. You’re going to like it!
At first, it may seem an odd choice for me. After all, in the first pages of the book, a teenage boy loses his life.
How does one make sense of death? Can you make sense of it? Not really. But one must learn somehow to cope with it, and continue to live with the weight of it.
No one knows this more than police officer Andrea Brady, who fired the shot that killed the teenager, after he violently attacked her police dog and came at her with a knife. Vilified by the press and traumatized by the events of that dark night, Andie finds herself resigning from the force, as she tries to find her new calling in life.
Luckily, she has people in her corner, and better yet, she has Justice, her beloved German Shepard. Justice had wandered up her drive and into her life two years earlier, and become her constant companion and K-9 partner.
After the attack, Justice had a long road to recovery. It wasn’t in his nature to become a victim however, as pointed out by Andie’s counselor, but instead, he became a survivor. And, after a time spent in denial, stuffing her feelings, and blocking her emotions, Andie vowed to be more like Justice, and leaned into the situation. Healing could then take place.
A few things I really loved about the story:
The setting, which was in my Pacific Northwest backyard; I could see, touch, and smell the vegetation that grows thick and wild on any patch of land not tended to for more than a few weeks.
Author, Kristin Von Kreisler with one of her beloved German Shephards.
I appreciated Von Kriesler portrayal of a police officer’s life, down to the description of the 27lbs of gear worn on their person for hour after endless hour. As you all probably know, my oldest son is an officer of the law. The positions he finds himself in, which test his skills, strength, and faith (in himself and others) often makes me shudder.
And finally, I absolutely LOVE the mention of Officer Brady’s habit of writing down three things each evening that she is grateful for and placing them in her Gratitude Basket. This resonated with me so deeply.
If you love animals the way I do, the way that officer Andrea Brady does, and the way that our author, Kristin Von Kreisler, obviously does, you’ll love A Healing Justice. Bravo
Pick up A Healing Justice at Amazon
Visit the Author’s Page
My Book, One Heart At A Time, Is Gathering Attention!
What an exciting week it’s been!
My new book, One Heart At A Time, became available in book stores everywhere on Tuesday, October 16th, and it has recieved so much media attention. I feel so very, very, blessed!
It was a labor of love to write, and especially difficult after losing my son, Zachariah, to suicide. Finishing was nothing short of a miracle, but one, with the help of God, that happened.
Complete it, I did, and it’s all shiny, polished, and on book shelves ready for you to pick up and read! I hope that you do, and I hope something in what I write about my life and my heart inspires you to reach out to others, just one single heart at time. Get to known them, their hopes, hearts, dreams, and struggles…
This is the way we will change the world!
The book’s release is gathering a lot of attention. Here’s a few of the places I’ve been or have picked up on my story and how I hope to be a small part of changing the world - just as I encourage you to be - One Heart at a Time!
Find your favorite - or find new favorites - in the media coverage that follow !
Good Morning America on ABC:
Early this Tuesday morning, I got to spend time with one of my favorite people, Robin Roberts, on ABC’s Good Morning America! (How is she always so chipper at that early time of day?!)
On the show, we were able to talk about so many things - life, farm, kids, and the devastating loss of my beloved Zacky - and I couldn’t help but shed a few tears even though I told myself I wouldn’t!
Of course, we talked about my new book, One Heart At A Time, which is available wherever books are sold!
I had an amazing time with Robin, she is a warm, engaging, smart, and gracious woman who’s love knows no bounds, I’m so grateful to be included in that circle.
In case you missed it, here’s a link to view the GMA segment:
Good Morning America Link
Megyn Kelly TODAY on NBC:
Wednesday, I joined another TV legend, Megyn Kelly! I hope you were able to tune in to the TODAY show on NBC!
There I was, bright, early, and nervous, with my make-up on and in my Sunday best, talking to Megyn about my book and my life, the challenges, the joys, and how I am so very very blessed.
Megyn was engaging, sensitive, and kept me on-track (as I tend to go off on tangents about things I’m passionate about - and I’m passionate about a LOT of things!) I was grateful for her allowing me to share some facts and thoughts about the broken US foster-care system and I hope by doing so it touched both hearts and nerves. We have got to step up and do something about the way that kids are warehoused and shuffled around until their time runs out and they are forced out into society, broken and ill-prepared.
I thoroughly enjoyed my time with Megyn, and I hope to do it again soon.
Bonus - I was able to meet and hug a bright news personality, Jenna Bush Hager while on the set!
Here’s the link to watch the segment!
TODAY with Megyn Kelly Link
Woman’s World Magazine:
Most likely, you’re going to be in a grocery store line sometime this week. If you’re like me and you are the supply sergeant for a small army, you’ll probably find yourself there multiple times!
While you’re standing in line trying to keep your kids entertained, or making eyes at the toddler in the cart in front of you, look around for this weeks copy of Woman’s World Magazine!
Yep, that’s me on the cover, in the fuscia colored dress, looking happy as a girl from a small town that finds herself staring back from the cover of a national publication can be!
The folks at Woman’s World were so kind and compassionate, as all the media have been, when asking about my family is coping after our loss. I feel so fortunate that they chose to showcase me on their cover, and share a beautiful story of my family inside.
I’ve asked folks to share pictures of where they find this issue of Woman’s World magazine - take a picture and post it to Facebook or Instagram with the #radiodelilah, like others have been doing - it’s been a lot of fun!
Guideposts Magazine:
In late September, I was also featured in Guideposts Magazine. I’ve read and loved Guideposts all my life.
The stories contained between the glossy front and back covers always inspire and uplift me, and I am both honored and humbled to think that perhaps my story will do the same for you and others.
Here is the link to Guideposts video on the role of prayer in my life - something I do every day, all day!
Guideposts Link
InsideRadio, Extra Close Up:
InsideRadio launched a new feature on Tuesday the 16th, called “Extra Close Up,” and they chose me to be the first to showcase!
What an honor!
As a radio-gal, this has Extra Special meaning to me, and I’m so very pleased and proud to be featured in this new segment.
Here’s the link to a short, but sweet, and very nostalgic little story:
InsideRadio Link
Parade Magazine:
I was in the midst of the media blitz in The Big Apple - New York City - when it was brought to my attention that Parade Magazine had run an article me and One Heart… Here’s the link to that!
Parade Magazine Link
Headline News with Mike Galanos on CNN:
On Thursday morning I sat down to talk with Mike Galanos on HLN. (How handsome is he?!)
I loved his directness and his authenticity. I know Mike has the capacity to change the world and a platform to touch many hearts.
He did not shy away from asking about my faith, which is central to my being and what gets me through each and every day. We touched on Zacky and Sammy, my radio program, my sometimes crazy but wonderful life, Point Hope… and the big message; Say yes!
Open your heart to the possibilities of loving larger and more vulnerable than ever before and the return on your investment will be overwhelming blessings.
Watch the segment:
HLN Link
And…
Good Day New York, Fox 5:
It’s always great to be able to drop in to Good Day New York when I’m in the city!
I had a delightful time with the morning team, and even though I’d covered the ground (I thought) several times before, found there is always more to talk about!
My heart feels so full and hopeful as I am gifted the opportunity to share my message with so many people on so many platforms.
Here ya go, if you’d care to take a listen:
Good Day New York Link
I know there will be more to come, stay tuned and thank you for being a part of my world and my heart!
Falling Into October
It's been an emotionally difficult few weeks.
A year ago, on October 2nd, my son, Zachariah, changed his address to "Heaven". I wrote this in my newsletter, and shared my raw truth with you, because to skip over it and write only about the wonder and joy of autumn would be disingenuous. I grieve.
Grief is like the wake of a great ship, beginning as a mighty and powerful wave that smashes against that which is closest, but continuing as many, many, many spreading ripples, reducing in size and fury, but still felt long after the ship has passed by.
It's been a year of firsts. The first day without him, the first Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's. The first winter without his snow boarding gear piled up after a day on the slopes, the first spring, birthday, Mother's Day. The first summer of bonfires with his friends present in the evenings and he missing. The first anniversary of the last day I spent with him, and the last day he spent here on earth. I grieve.
And I hope.
I hope that you are not taking a single moment of a single day for granted. I hope that you are holding those you love close to you, if not physically, in thought, heart, and prayer.
I hope that you remember how much value you have to the world, how much you are loved, and how your absence would be felt not just by those who gave birth to you, by those who grew up with you, by those you brought into the world, but by the hundred, thousands, millions perhaps of lives that would be impacted by your absence.
I hope that you are greeting autumn with open arms and an open heart, marveling as I am, at the colorful display of turning foliage, the flight of birds overhead, and the sounds of children gathered in school yards.
And I hope that as the bushes and leaves shed their leaves, preparing for a Great Sleep so they may awaken in the spring refreshed, green, and Alive, you, as I, are taking a cue and learning to let go...
I 'Eight' It All! Chili
Today is my older brother, Matthew’s birthday.
If he were still with us, he’d be turning 60 years old today. Instead, he’ll forever be a young, goofy but brilliant, 26 year old engineer, unafflicted with the arthritis, declining eye sight, and other maladies of age I’m beginning to experience.
I’m posting this recipe in honor of him, because of his love of chili and cornbread, both of which he could put down in extraordinary quantities (6’5” after all…)
And after consumption, I swear he could have provided enough natural gas to fuel a third world country! With 8 cans of beans, I’m sure this is one recipe he would both find fulfilling and get immense devilish glee from!
Make it with ground beef or turkey, or leave the meat out all-together and have a delicious, yet still quite musical, vegan meal.
Ingredients:
2 cans White Beans (drained)
2 cans Chili Beans (seasoned pintos, not drained)
2 cans Pinto Beans (unseasoned, drained)
2 cans Kidney Beans (drained)
2 tablespoons of cooking oil - your choice
1 Red Bell Pepper, diced
1 large Yellow Onion, diced
2 cans Ro*Tel Diced Tomatoes
2 cans Diced Tomatoes (w/green pepper & onion)
2 cans Diced Tomatoes
2 pkgs dry Chili Seasoning (to taste)
1-2 cups of Water
3-4 tablespoons granulated Sugar
1 ½ pounds of Ground beef or Turkey, browned and fat drained
Salt & Pepper (to taste)
Red Pepper Flakes (to taste)
Directions:
Sauté pepper and onion in large stock pot until onions are tender and translucent.
Add ground meat to pepper/onion and cook until brown.
Open Everything! That’s the most difficult part of this recipe (all that thumb exercise!)
Add everything on the ingredient list to the large stock pot.
Stir together, cook at a simmer for 2-4 hours, just enough to let all the flavors combine; stirring occasionally.
If desired, top with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream & green onion.
Serve with a nice chunk of cornbread with butter and honey!
This also a very good crockpot recipe, but you’ll want to cut the recipe in half to make everything fit!
Happy Birthday Matt! Thanks for taking care of my boys up there in heaven. I’m sure you’re eating chili, watching Blazing Saddles, and laughing your heads off together!
Spinach, Beet & Feta Salad with Candied Walnuts
One of the best things about living amongst a goat herd is the abundance of fresh feta cheese - I kid you not! (See what I did there?!)
And one of the best things about having an abundance of fresh feta is this recipe using another of my favorite things - beets! In combination with a bed of vitamin and iron rich spinach, and protein packed walnuts, it's pretty much a win, win, win, win...
Try it!
Ingredients:
4 medium beets - cleaned and cut in half
10-12 oz baby spinach greens
1/4 medium red onion, thinly sliced
1/3 cup chopped walnuts
3 tablespoons maple syrup
1/2 cup frozen orange juice concentrate
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Place beets in enough water to cover in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, and cook until tender; 20 - 30 minutes. Drain, cool, then slice or cut into cubes and salt lightly.
While beets are cooking, candy the walnuts. Using a skillet over medium-low heat, cook the nuts until warm and beginning toast. Stir in maple syrup until evenly coated. Remove from pan to small plate and let cool.
In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice concentrate, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt and pepper to make the dressing.
Place a large helping of baby spinach onto each of four salad plates. Divide beets into equal portions and top spinach with them. Do the same with the sliced onion and candied walnuts. Top generously with the feta cheese.
Drizzle each with dressing and serve up to hungry diners!
* For a hearty meal, slice up some grilled chicken and add to each plate!
Zack's Grove
This spring, when winter began ebbing away with lessening ferocity, and tips of green - Zack's favorite color - began appearing on barren branches I set myself to work on a new garden.
I threw my pent up energies, anger, and frustration at the project; I poured my grief into it.
I planned, I directed, I dug. All spring and into the summer I worked until my my hands were calloused and my muscles were sore, hoping the physical fatigue would help me get a restful nights sleep - which has been difficult since my beautiful son left us.
Situated next to a large pond rimmed with cattails and wildlife - the buzzing, colorful dragonflies, ducks, geese, and the many critters that come to drink along it's edge - and full of many trees that were donated by a friend to stand sentinel at his memorial service last October, I call the new garden Zack's Grove.
Paul brought down the school bus shelter that Zack and his siblings had waited in on cold fall mornings, and we placed it close to the pond, so that even on the darkest of days when the storm rages within and without, I will have a place to sit and be still with my son.
Amongst the trees, I planted as many green and purple flowers as I could lay hands on, and I guarantee there will be more to come. These are my Zack Attack colors.
On October 2nd, a year to the day Zack decided to change his address to “Heaven,” friends and family gathered here in the grove to remember him. We shared, we laughed, and we cried even more tears, adding to the millions we've shed over this past year without.
We ate pizza and drank sour-patch smoothies, yes, his favorites.
As were his wishes, we placed his ashes beneath a tree, one that has 5 different apple grafts, that will grow large and tall and proud, bearing fruit season after season. Our "Zapple tree" is in the center of a large tear-drop shaped planting bed, that represents the tears, mentioned above, that even on the brightest of days, continue to fall.
That person is like a tree planted by streams of water,
which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither--
whatever they do prospers.
Psalm 1:3
In the end, Zack’s Grove is a beautiful reminder of Zack's vitality and zest for living. His sylvan home; a peaceful retreat to rest, to pray, and to visit with my son.
The Testament of Harold's Wife | October Book Club
Grief demands a villain. A target. Something or someone to pour itself into, to rail against, to destroy. This I know. So does Harold’s wife, Louisa.
I found a kindred spirit in Louisa, a somewhat eccentric, aging, bereaved woman who finds solace in conversing with her chickens. Her heart is empty and her rage is full. Relatable. Loss does that to you.
Louisa finds her target; it is Larry, the drunk driver who killed her beloved grandson, Cody, which lead to despair so great in her husband, Harold, that he took his own life. A domino effect of pain and sorrow that has left only Louisa standing, alone.
This will not do, of course, so Louisa and her ol’ hens hatch a plan.
Alas, as Robert Browning pointed out many years ago, “The best laid schemes o' mice an' men / Gang aft a-gley.” Which is another way of saying, things don’t often work out as you expect them to.
In Louisa’s case, there was a couple of young bucks, one, a wounded creature of the forest, and a another of the human realm, that wandered into her path and distracted her from her mission. As the spring sun warmed the earth, so too did Louisa’s heart feel a creeping warmth and a something else that had been missing for far too long; the human connection.
She had lost that which could never be replaced, but she was learning that she too could FIND.
The warp and the weft of Lynne Hugo’s characters in The Testament of Harold’s Wife are woven into a rich tapestry of life, where the irreverent, unconventional, quirky flaws become the very thing that make it absolutely perfect and fills one with a sense of hope.
I think you’ll like as much as I did!
Get my October Book Club pick, The Testament of Harold’s Wife HERE
And, visit the Author’s Page: Lynne Hugo
Jalapeño Popper Dip
It’s football season! Which for a lot of us mean it’s chip and dip season! Here’s a favorite of mine and for the studio folks. Jalapeño Popper Dip - so crispy, so cheesy, so packed with flavor!
Serve it up in the den, on the tailgate, or in the studio break room - no matter where or when, it’s going to be gobbled up and enjoyed!
Ingredients:
2 8oz packages of cream cheese
1/2 cup mayonaise
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp black pepper
4 medium Jalapeño peppers, seeds removed and finely chopped (for extra spicy dip, leave some seeds!)
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1cup shredded mozzarella cheese
3/4 cup chopped green onion
1 cup crispy bacon (or turkey bacon) bits
Topping:
6 Tblsp melted butter
2 1/2 cup Ritz crackers crushed
1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees
In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, black pepper, and chopped jalepenos. Stir well making sure all ingredients are well blended.
Add cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, green onion and bacon bits to cream cheese mixture and stir well again.
Place mixture in a 7x11” oven proof pan. (Any casserole or baking dish that is at least 1” deep will work.)
In a separate bowl, combine melted butter, Ritz crackers, parmesan cheese, and spread over top of dip mixture.
Cover pan with foil and cook for approximately 45 minutes, remove foil and cook for approximately 10 minutes more or until topping is crisp.
The next step is to grab your favorite bag of chip and get to dippin’! This dip also is the bomb to top your tacos or any Tex-Mex sorta meal!
Two Great Fall Movies | Unbroken & Indivisible
Unbroken: Path to Redemption
In theaters September 14th
Unbroken: Path to Redemption
Based on Laura Hillenbrand’s bestselling book Unbroken, and the 2014 film of the same name, Unbroken: Path to Redemption, called a spiritual successor to the first movie, tells the rest of WWII veteran Louis Zamperini's story after his liberation from a Japanese prison camp and return home from World War II.
Unbroken: Path to Redemption takes off where the film Unbroken, left off. In that, we saw Louis as a bombardier who crash landed in the ocean due to engine failure and floated on a raft for 47 days before becoming a prisoner of war. This is the rest of the story:
Haunted by his experiences as a Japanese POW, Louis doesn't think of himself as a hero, anything but, actually. In fictional romance, Louis' love for Cynthia, whom he married in 1946, would be the only balm necessary for his wounds, but as reality would have it, their marriage is being held prisoner by Louis' past and his wrathful quest for revenge is driving him deeper into despair, putting the couple on the brink of divorce.
This is the story of how Cynthia finds a born-again faith in the Lord at a Christian revival crusade led by Billy Graham in 1949. Renewing her commitment to the marriage she had all but given up on, and to Louis. Now, her most fervent prayer is for God to help Louie find the peace and forgiveness he so desperately needs.
Unbroken: Path to Redemption stars Samuel Hunt, as Zamperini, as well as evangelist Will Graham portraying his grandfather. It opens September 14th in theaters everywhere bringing to life the rest of this powerful real-life story of forgiveness, redemption, and amazing grace.
Watch the Trailer & Get Tickets
Indivisible
In theaters October 26th
Indivisible
Every marriage faces challenges. The small every day type that come with the reality of two people living in close proximity, ever jostling to give one another the right balance of attention and space. And the large ones that accompany unexpected circumstances - upsets, upheavals, sickness, and the unknown.
INDIVISiBLE is based on the true story of Army Chaplain Darren Turner and his wife Heather who, with a strong, faith-filled marriage, are ready to follow their calling: serving God, family, and country. Idealism is met with the reality of an abrupt and lengthy deployment in Iraq, the horrors of war, of lonliness, of two realities that are so very different from one another.
Darren and Heather have anchored themselves as pillars of strength amongst those who need it the most; the deployed soldiers fighting to stay alive, and the families left behind tensing at every phone call and knock at the door. Who can they cling to when realizing that they too have been deeply wounded by this incomprehensalbe experience?
INDIVISIBLE, is the story of one marriage … one family … under God.
In theaters beginning October 26, starring Sarah Drew, Justin Bruening, Jason George, Tia Mowry, and Madeline Carroll.
Watch the Trailer
Now through September 9th, you can enter my Red Carpet Movie Flyaway Sweepstakes for an opportunity to win a trip for two (2) people to fly to Memphis, Tennessee to watch INDIVISIBLE on October 2, 2018 at the Orpheum Theater in downtown Memphis!
The sweepstakes package includes:
Round trip coach airfare for TWO people
Two nights hotel accommodations
Two tickets to the red carpet movie event
And a $100 cash gift card!
Memphis is waiting for you!
ENTER NOW
Cheesy Jalepeño Loaf
Fall is in the air, in fact, we tried to have a BBQ at the studio recently and even though the sun was shining brightly, the wind was from the north and so cold we picked up our plates and headed in to eat in the dining room!
I can't think of a better way to eat my way through this transitional time that with a mix of fresh veggies and fruits from the garden and some warm comfort foods like soups. Paired with those items, there can be nothing better than a thick slice of this dense cheesy bread.
Made with a beer batter base, and incorporating a little spice (not too much) with jalepeño peppers, it's just the ticket to a tailgater, an office potluck, or your next family meal.
It's "Steve Made" of course, so you know it's been tried and tested. Here ya go!
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup packed shredded pepper jack cheese
- 1/4 cup pickled jalepeño peppers, chopped
- 2 tablespoons green onion (green part), chopped
- 12 ounces of beer
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted, plus extra for greasing
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Grease a 9 x 5 bread loaf pan with butter.
3. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, garlic salt, and sugar in a large bowl.
4. Add the cheddar and pepper jack cheeses, jalepeños, and green onion, stir until combined.
5. Add beer to mixture, using a spatula stir until combined and batter is wet.
6. Transfer the batter to the greased loaf pan. Use the spatula to level the top.
7. Add the melted butter to the top of the batter, making sure to cover the entire top of the batter.
8. Bake for 1 hour, or until a knife inserted in the middle of bread comes out clean.
9. Remove bread pan from oven to a wire rack and let cool for 10 minutes. Then remove bread from loaf pan and let cool on wire rack for 5 more minutes.
Mmmmm. Thanks Steve!
One Heart At A Time | September Book Club
Visit the One Heart At A Time page
Let me tell you about my new book, One Heart At A Time!
At Rosetta Books urging, I began the process of putting my personal journey, referred to by many as "philanthropy," (but something I simply call giving back) down in written format.
It's something I believe we should all be encouraged to do, and what my goal was and is with this book. It's also my belief that giving back is something that we are born understanding. Humans are social creatures and intrinsically know that we need one another to survive. That God-given knowledge is often discouraged however, in deference to "becoming successful" and "getting ahead" and from and early age we become conditioned instead to be ego-centric beings.
One Heart At A Time is all about my personal philosophy; big change happens by small measures. One. Heart. At. A. Time.
In my book, I'll tell you about my family, my childhood, my upbringing, and my many life experiences - the good, the bad, the ugly, and the down right hilarious - and I'll talk about how this life I've led, and the people in it, have shaped me into the person I am today.
"If we are going to change the world, one heart at a time, we must make sure we and those closest to us are fully engaged and aware of the beauty of the natural world, fully engaged in real life, real connections, real human and nature interactive experiences. We should be more excited about reality than reality shows...
...What if you took it upon yourself to spend time with a young person, instilling in them something to care about?
...Believe in a young person, and you will change the world for that person. Teach a young person that talking is better than texting and reality is better than virtual reality - and indeed you will be doing that child and this world a great service."
(pg 181-182)
One Heart At A Time was a true labor of love. Finishing it was a true labor! Continuing to write after I'd lost my Zacky was difficult, to put it in the mildest terms, taking every ounce of effort I could muster. But One Heart, is also a tribute to my son, who has challenged and shaped me from the very moment he was conceived, and will continue to do so until our glorious reunion in the house of Our Father.
We’re going to change the world with love, one person at a time, one heart a time. Take the time in your life to know the person you’re next to, to know your neighbors, to care for your friends, and know what is on their heart.
I hope the book inspires and motivates you to reach inside yourself, through the web of personal experiences, triumphs, and tragedies, and take just one step outside your own reality in order to make a difference in another's life. In doing so you will feel your own weight lifted, and be awed at the domino effect of good and ever expanding love that you've initiated.
One Heart At A Time will be available on October 12, in paperback, digital, and audio formats.
Please take a moment to visit the One Heart book page, which has more information about the book, its author (me!), endorsements from the likes of Debbie Macomber and Robin Roberts, and pre-order your copy today!
Pre-Order One Heart At A Time
Thank you, my dear friends! I hope you enjoy reading One Heart At A Time and it inspires you to open your heart to the vast possibilities of loving others into better lives!
Fall Into New Music!
Music is the language to the soul, and there is some new great music coming out to soothe, make merry, and warm our souls this chilly fall!
Even though it's hard to say good-by to summer, some of the albums I'm hearing about have me pretty excited and will certainly make it easier to slip out of the shorts and tank tops, into the jeans and sweaters, and a better frame of mind.
Here's a sampling:
Paul McCartney | Egypt Station
Available September 7th
I've had a crush on Paul McCartney since I was old enough to crush. Some things just never change and that makes me so so happy!
You know what else makes me happy? Sir Paul will release an all new album, Egypt Station, (the first full album of all-new McCartney music since 2013,) this September 7.
Paul says, “I liked the words ‘Egypt Station.’ ...I think of it as a dream location that the music emanates from.”
And the press release says this:
True to the inspiration behind its title, Egypt Station’s 14 songs combine to convey a unique travelogue vibe. Between the opening and closing instrumentals “Station I” and “Station II,” each song finds Paul capturing a place or moment before transporting the listener seamlessly to the next destination.
Stops along the way include an acoustic meditation on present day contentedness (“Happy With You”), a timeless anthem that would fit on virtually any album of any McCartney era (“People Want Peace”), and an epic multi-movement closer clocking in at seven minutes with a song suite structure harkening back to the days of Paul’s previous combos (“Despite Repeated Warnings”).
The result is a kaleidoscopic journey through myriad musical locales and eras, yet firmly rooted in the here and now--with Paul’s singular unmistakable melodic and lyrical sensibility serving as a guide.
Two tracks were previously released as singles; the plaintive ballad “I Don’t Know” and raucous stomper “Come On To Me." I loved both as much as I love the album cover, McCartney's own art work of course. (I'm tellin' ya, CRUSHIN'!)
I'm climbing aboard at Egypt Station and think you too should get your ticket to ride!
Pre-Order Egypt Station HERE
And, listen to “I Don’t Know” and “Come On To Me.”
Rod Stewart | Blood Red Roses
Out September 28th
My good friend, Rod Stewart, will release his 30th studio album, Blood Red Roses, September 28th on Republic Records! I can't be more excited!
Rod is such an incredible artist and incredible man. He loves and cares deeply, and no more so than for his children and their future. The album’s first single, “Didn’t I” is about the damage drugs can do from a parents’ point of view. If you pre-order the 13-song standard or 16-song deluxe album from digital retailers you'll instantly receive a download of "Didn’t I.”
‘I always think I make albums for a few friends and this record has that intimacy,’ Rod Stewart said. ‘Sincerity and honesty go a long way in life and the same is true in song-writing.’
“Blood Red Roses,” is a deeply personal 13-track collection of originals and three covers, and has been described as "...quite simply peak Rod Stewart." It moves as smooth as the man himself, from acoustic driven folk, through Motown-tinged pop/R&B, to unadulterated rock’n’roll, with those quintessential Rod Stewart heart-melting ballads thrown in.
This new album will be released nearly 50 years to the date of when he signed his very first solo recording contract. (Fifty years we've been rockin' to Rod!)
There is no one NO ONE quite like Rod Stewart, a legend who has enjoyed chart-topping hits every decade of his career. I'm absolutely thrilled that this album is being released and looking forward to watching many of the singles become more ageless tunes we'll be rockin' to for the next 50 years!
Rod has donated several concert packages that have helped support Point Hope, and I couldn't love him more for it!
Pre-Order Blood Red Roses HERE now.
And, for more information, visit RodStewart.com.
Train | Greatest Hits
Coming November 11th
Call Me Sir - out NOW!
Train will be coming out with their Greatest Hits album on November 11th along with a few new songs, including the sweet “Call Me Sir,” that features Cam and Travie McCoy which is already being played!
Last January, Train released their 8th studio album, a girl a bottle a boat, and the lead single, “Play That Song,” went platinum in 4 countries!!! They are a multi-talented, multi-faceted group that gets a LOT of air-time on the Delilah program, and one I especially love to play during the holidays. Christmas in Tahoe, re-released last year, brings that signature Train sound to holiday classics as well as several original songs. It's so so good!
Train recently wrapped up a spectacular co-headline tour with Daryl Hall & John Oates. I hope you were able to catch it in your area! If not, check their tour page for upcoming dates. Hopefully they'll be scheduling more venues soon!
AND, did you know Train partakes in other ventures outside of music? Proceeds from newly launched Save Me, San Fransisco Chocolates, and Drops of Jupiter® wine portfolio go toward Family House, a San Francisco charity that supports families of children with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses.
"Helping and relating to children has always been a priority for us (Train). We were kids ourselves when we started Train, and played in coffee shops in and around San Francisco - and now we all have children of our own. Because of that, our San Francisco roots, and the fact that some of us have experienced our children being in NICIU's, the best way for us to give back is with the Family House Organization."
Train has also been a very generous contributor to my own heart's cause, Point Hope. I love the music, I love frontman, Pat Monahan, and I love their hearts!
Climb aboard the music, and experience, that is Train!
Enjoy my friends!
Unshakable Hope | August Book Club
Last October, my world, my life, was shaken to the core.
My son, Zachariah, chose to leave this earth, and all who knew and loved him behind. I still do not know why he took this drastic action; a permanent solution to a temporary problem. I'll spend the rest of my life asking why, and musing over thousands of 'what if' scenarios.
My faith was shaken too. But here I could not dwell because the only thing that kept a thread of my sanity intact was the knowlege that Zack was in the arms of Our Savior. Pastor and New York Times bestselling author Max Lucado knows this is a fact and in his latest book, Unshakable Hope: Building Our Lives on the Promises of God, he offers encouraging guidance for overcoming sadness and despair, renewing a sense of purpose, and triumphantly facing the fears of the future.
"We’ve never been more educated and entertained. We have technological tools our parents could only dream of, and we are saturated with information, amusement, and recreation. Yet more than ever, we are starving for hope. School shootings are all too familiar. Depression is on the rise. And more people than ever are orchestrating their own deaths. In America alone, the suicide rate has increased 24 percent in fewer than twenty years. If a disease saw such a spike, it would be deemed an epidemic.
People are dying from a lack of hope."
Have you had an experience or experiences that have left you shaken? Possibly your future, your faith, your family, or finances? After forty years of counseling and ministry, Max Lucado has learned that nothing lifts the desperate, weary heart like the promises of God. In a world full of despair, depression, anxiety, and instability, we do not need more opinions or hunches; we need the definitive declarations of our mighty and loving God.
Unshakable Hope examines twelve of God’s promises that Max has turned to over the years to encourage himself and others. Each chapter explores one significant promise and reveals how it will equip you to:
o Overcome challenging circumstances
o Live through sadness and renew hope
o Experience lasting security
o Make wise decisions
Join Max as he takes a closer look at Scripture’s unbreakable promises and shows you how to build your life not on the circumstances you encounter, but on the promises of God, with an unshakable hope. For every problem in life, God has given you a promise.
Buy Unshakable Hope at:
Thomas Nelson Booksellers
Amazon
Follow Max Lucado at his website: MaxLucado.com and on,
Facebook.com, Instagram, & Twitter @MaxLucado
A Berry Good Day!
There is a little gravel pathway near my studio that is flanked along one side by the back of the city's stables, where the mounted police keep their horses, and on the other by a woodland; a large patch of green towering trees and low brambling undergrowth.
I often walk this short foot path to stretch my legs and get some fresh air after a long recording session. It's maybe only 50-60 yards long and opens to an expansive park with couple of different play areas, a neighborhood P-patch, fields planted with wildflowers, paved sidewalks, and a large wooded area with trails for exploring nature right in the middle of the city. The city scape can be seen by peering beyond, but it is easy to forget where you are and imagine yourself in a forest primeval once you're under the shade of the large copse of Douglas Fir.
The other day after only a few steps onto the gravel, I noticed a plethora of berries growing along the wooded side. Forever the forager (thank you Mom) I did less stretching of the legs and more stretching of the arms as I reached for sweet morsel after sweet morsel.
I saw first the little wild blackberries, native to the Pacific Northwest, and favored by my Grandpa Luke. These are smaller and not as abundant as the more ubiquitous Himalayan blackberry that was brought here as a cultivar and now dominates the berry scene. The little dewberry, as it's also called, trails gently along the ground and packs a powerful punch. Oh the memories I have of hunting this little gem down, pail in one hand, picking with the other! It was a chore to get enough for a pie, but boy was it worth it!
Next, I was really surprised and delighted to find a rare wild raspberry cane; I've only come across them once or twice out hiking or camping, and here they were in a city park! They look and taste just like the ones you're used to seeing in the grocery aisles, but perhaps just a bit sweeter on the tongue because the thrill of finding them makes your tastebuds stand up and applaud!
I also happened upon some thimble berries, deep red and velvety. It's not really my favorite because of the texture, I think, but others love it, and I appreciate the bright red color, next to the green, green leaves. Speaking of leaves, the thimble berry grows on a thornless bush with wide soft, velvety smooth leaves. The plant seems to invite you in as an honored guest and serves you up the best portion it has to offer. I gladly accepted it's hospitality!
A salmon berry hung just above my head; it was a later hanger-on'er,. Like some of the guest at an outdoor bbq on a warm summer night, this one was just having too much fun. It didn't realize that the shin-dig was over quite some time ago. I helped it on it's way by picking and eating it on the spot!
And lastly a single red huckleberry. It was a early arrival, and as welcome as the friend that comes before the cook out to help you clean the grill and set out the paper plates and napkins! I also, uh, embraced, this bright little morsel with a friendly hug.
It took me as long to reach the park on this day, than it normally does to make a full circuitous route, but I was happy, finger stained, and most definitely re-energized!
Are you a berry-hound? Where do you pick, what's your favorite? As always, I love it when you write to me at D@Delilah.com! We all have things we can share with others to spark conversation, warm memories, and new connections!
I hope, as you read this, you too are having a berry good day! With much love and the Lords blessings,
Balsam Hill | "Christmas in July" benefitting Point Hope!
I have some wonderful friends at Balsam Hill!
We met in the realm of the business world, and the relationship quickly developed to be so much more than an opportunity to showcase their amazingly realistic faux florals, greenery, and Christmas trees!
For the last two years, Balsam Hill has made the NGO I founded, Point Hope, a recipient of their charitable giving several times over. They have underwritten my annual Farm to Feast garden party, where people come together to eat fresh, locally sourced, and deliciously prepared foods, and learn about the work of Point Hope. In addition, they've made Point Hope a benefactor of their on-going philanthropy work.
This month, we've teamed up for their Christmas in July campaign. All month long, Balsam Hill has been giving back to different charities, and the week of July 22- July 29, they will be focusing on Point Hope!
Here's how it works. Visitors like you help to drive awareness and raise as much money as possible for Point Hope by engaging on my social media posts about Balsam Hill's charity campaign and by visiting their blog.
Each like is worth .50 cents.
Each comment and/or share is worth $1.
If you mention Point Hope on Balsam Hill's BLOG, it's worth $2!
There is no commitment on your behalf, just your social media involvement. I so appreciate the extra minute or two of your time it will take, and, believe me, the underserved children and communities the funds will go toward supporting, appreciate it even more!,
Want to know more about Point Hope? Visit us HERE.
For more about Balsam Hill's philanthropy, visit them HERE.
Many many, thanks to my dear friends at Balsam Hill, a company that is making a difference in the world, one beautiful bouquet, wreath, and tree at a time!
