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:

1. Sauté pepper and onion in large stock pot until onions are tender and translucent.

2. Add ground meat to pepper/onion and cook until brown.

3. Open Everything! That’s the most difficult part of this recipe (all that thumb exercise!)

4. Add everything on the ingredient list to the large stock pot.

5. Stir together, cook at a simmer for 2-4 hours, just enough to let all the flavors combine; stirring occasionally.

6. If desired, top with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream & green onion.

7. 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:

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice concentrate, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt and pepper to make the dressing.

4. 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.

5. 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

Buy The Testament of Harold’s Wife

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:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees

2. 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.

3. Add cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, green onion and bacon bits to cream cheese mixture and stir well again.

4. Place mixture in a 7x11” oven proof pan. (Any casserole or baking dish that is at least 1” deep will work.)

5. In a separate bowl, combine melted butter, Ritz crackers, parmesan cheese, and spread over top of dip mixture.

6. 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

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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:

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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.”

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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.

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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!

Brownie Lovers, Have S'more!

S’more Brownies

Once again our studio's kitchen countertop was covered in Steve Made goodness (badness?) today! A giant platter of S'more Brownies appeared for our snacking pleasure (distress?).

These multi-layer morsels are an ooey-gooey treat, perfect for a summer crowd when a fire pit and roasting sticks are not available!

I had one, but I definitely need S'more!

Ingredients:

• Graham crackers

• 1/2 cup butter

• 1 ounce unsweetened baker’s chocolate

• 1/4 water

• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 2 teaspoons vanilla

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• pinch of salt

• 2 eggs

• 1/4 cup flour

• 4.4 ounce Hershey’s milk chocolate bar, broken into 16 small sections

• 1 1/2 cups miniature marshmallows

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Line the bottom and sides of an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper. Lay graham crackers in the bottom of the pan, breaking graham crackers into sections to cover entire bottom of pan.

2. In a medium size sauce pan on medium heat, add butter, baker’s chocolate and water. Whisk until melted, then add unsweetened cocoa, whisk until combined. Remove sauce pan from heat and whisk in vanilla, sugar and salt.

3. Let mixture cool for a about five minutes, then whisk in eggs one at a time. Whisking/beating each time for one to two minutes. Whisk in flour.

4. Pour mixture into the prepared 8-inch baking pan. Bake for 35 minutes. Remove pan from oven and add the Hershey’s chocolate bar sections to the top. Return to oven and bake for 10 more minutes or until a toothpick inserted in middle comes out clean.

5. Remove pan from oven and add the marshmallows to the top. Position oven rack to be about 6 to 8 inches from the broiling element. Set oven to broil, return pan to oven and broil for 20 to 25 seconds. Be careful browning occurs very fast and can     burn the marshmallows.

6. Let brownies cool for 45 minutes to 1 hour. The marshmallows make it very sticky to cut the brownies into squares. I have found that using a sharp knife repeatedly dipped in water makes it much easier. ~Steve

July Book Club | Portrait of a Sister

Portrait of a Sister

I love to draw, I love to paint, I love to express myself creatively, and I am a person of deep faith and conviction. I can't imagine if the two of these parts of me, two of the things about myself that I identify with the strongest, were in conflict with one another.

Perhaps that's why I chose Portrait of a Sister, by Laura Bradford, for my July book club. In it, our protagonist is faced with just that, a conflict between her God-given gift of artistry, and her faith's doctrine against it. I'd never before considered how one might affect the other and I was immediately drawn to Katie's struggle.

This would be a doozie of a Delilah's Dilemma!

When their mother dies, Amish sisters, Katie and Hannah Beiler, are brought together again. Once upon an innocent time, they were inseparable, but Hannah chose to leave the fold and live the "Englisch" life in New York City while Katie, never questioning her future, stayed with the community in which she was born and raised.

After a lifetime of keeping her art hidden, Katie becomes caught up in Hannah’s “Englisch” life and discover that people admire her talent for drawing portraits, which are forbidden in Amish culture. Why would God give her such a gift if He did not want her to use It? It's not only this question, but developing romantic feelings for someone that is NOT the young Amish man, Abram Zook, she thought she would marry soon, that confuses Katie further. Add to it all, an influential art collector who wants to buy her sketches and you have the perfect recipe for a very muddled cocktail of emotional angst. 

Props to author, Laura Bradford, who beautifully portrays how the quiet war between the heart and head, faith and desire, can tear at our souls.

This book, from Kensington Publishing, is fiction at its finest, with heart and humanity prompting me to turn the page, turn the page, turn the page, until the very end. Grab a blanket, a glass of iced tea, find your favorite shade tree and indulge yourself. I know you'll enjoy it as I did!

Buy Portrait of a Sister

Mamma Mia Here We Go Again!

The music of ABBA takes me back to roller skating with my high waist jeans and crop tops, Farrah Fawcett hair flying behind me...

I'm so ready to sing and dance, laugh and love, all over again!

I was thrilled to find out that an all-new original musical, Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again, is set to open this summer! Can. Not. Wait. And, are you ready for this? A woman, singer, actress, performer, entertainer I admire very much, Cher, is joining the cast!!!

The Soundtrack is going to be awesome!

You'll definitely want to get it before you see the movie, reprising your own role as the Dancing Queen, even if it's just in your kitchen!  The soundtrack will be available everywhere music is sold on July 13th.

But you don't even have to wait until then to get the single that features Cher; Fernando is available right now! Feel my excitement?

LISTEN
Cher: Fernando

BUY
The Album

Back again, for Mamma Mia, Here We Go Again, will be the original cast of characters, Meryl Streep, Amanda Seyfried, Pierce Brosnan, Colin Firth, Stellan Skarsgård, Julie Walters, Dominic Cooper and Christine Baranski, returning to the magical Greek island of Kalokairi with the songs of ABBA rocking everyone into love and laughter.

I thought it couldn't get any better than this, but yes, yes it did, because this time around Cher is amongst the riotous crew as her character crashes her granddaughters party. And if that wasn't enough, Lily James and Andy Garcia will star as well! 

The fabulous musical comedy, 
Mamma Mia, Here We Go Again, opens July 20, 2018,
I have a goooooood feeling it will do just as well as the original,
massively successful movie of 2008!

WATCH THE TRAILER

It's time to step into your dancing shoes, lace up your skates, and bring out your best satin jacket, 'cuz the soundtrack to Mamma Mia, Here We Go Again, is rockin' and rollin'. 

Our Perfect, Precious, Pets

Sophia L'rin

Waaaay back in April, I asked my listeners and social media visitors to share some stories and pics of their talented pets.

This just in, the pet talent category of cuteness is really really full! I get it. Most of my furry friends aren't much use at all, but I sure do love their company and their antics.

Just recently I lost my beloved Sofia whose talent was being my constant companion; at my heels in the day, my lap in the evenings as I spent time in the studio, and cuddled tightly against me through the night as I cried  in grief over my son, Zachariah.

I'm dedicating this post to her, Sophia L'rin, and to pets everywhere that entertain, comfort and love with all their furry, fuzzy, hairy, and sometimes hairless hearts!

The first story is from Lisa, a volunteer who makes little angels to give to those in nursing homes, children in foster care, and others who could use a little reminder that they are loved and watched over from above. (See her story HERE)

Gizmo, Hope, and Lisa

We have two very special pets. One rescued from a shelter almost 4 years ago, my silly puppy Gizmo, who's pretty smart...  If I start getting worked up about anything, he jumps up on me and licks me 'till I chill out. He's helped me on the rough days after losing my Mom, and sits in my lap while I am working the 1000 Angels Movement project.

Our 2nd special pet is a baby rabbit named Hope, who was the runt of her litter and was given to us because she needed a home; she's been a very good addition to our family. Gizmo even has taken her under his wing and is very protective when we get her out of her cage. She loves to snuggle, nudge me on the chin, and give bunny kisses! ~ Lisa

This brief, but adorable note is about Jack. I'm glad you shared, Karla, because Jack certainly brought a smile to my face!

Happy Jack

I saw your fb post about cute pets.  I guess Jack's isn't a special talent, but looking cute is what he does best.  Wanted to show him to you. ~ Karla

Odin

And from Jacky, (not Jack, he can't write) comes the story of Odin, just a pup, who may or may not grow out of his feline tendencies...

This is my 4 month old puppy Odin who thinks he is a cat. This is him sitting on the back of the couch waiting for me to let him. It's probably one of his favorite places in the house. ~ Jacky

An actual cat, Mr. Tigger (is he bouncy trouncy, or just a contortionist?) gets himself in some pretty tight squeezes:

This is Mr. Tigger, 17 years old.  He somehow, magically, got into this tiny little box, inside of a large box.  He really didn’t fit.  I accidentally woke him up taking the picture, so I got “the look”.  lol

My cats love watching bird videos! ~ Tammra

Mr. Tigger

And lasty, comes this beautiful story of Sid, the rescue pup, who, much like my Sophia, knows when TLC is needed and provides it aplenty!

I saw your post asking people to post or send pics of talented pets, so, here's mine! This is my pit mix rescue, Sid! I got him from our local shelter when he was 8 weeks old 😊.

He has a few special talents. The first one is his ability to eat ANYTHING. From dad's entire jiu jitzu gi, to a bunch of tiny screws he found in a cat toy kit... Sid finds a way, and thank goodness it has always gone smoothly 😂. I tell him I'm going to start packing the house into a safe when I leave for work!

Another talent is babysitting. He's good with any baby... human, chicken, dog, cat, bunny... You name it! He once babysat 15 baby chicks at one time. He's the most gentle, loving boy!

The last talent I'll mention is his ability to take care of his mama. Not only is he a great little protector (he has an intimidating bark... But he's all bark, no bite), he's also a wonderful doctor, haha. I was hit by a car in January, and luckily, walked away with just sprains and bruises. While I was home healing, Sid was always close, and paid special attention to my injured leg and arm. He'd lick my hurt foot, elbow, and knee, and gently lay his head on my leg and just stare. We called him Doctor Sid, and figure he prescribed me snuggles, which is perfect, because his snuggles really are the best medicine ❤️🐶.

Sid says he hopes you like his talents!

Love, Lindsey

I DO love his talents, Lindsey, as well as those embodied by Gizmo, Hope, Jack, Odin, and Mr. Tigger! Thank you everyone who shared their stories and pictures with me, and in doing so also shared your life and your love.

You're all very special people with very special pets. You lift me up and I hope all those that read this blog will feel the same.

God bless!

Hooray for Special Dads!

Ok, ALL dads are special! 

But earlier this month, I shared some gift ideas for the dad (or dads) in your life. I also promised to give away two bundles of every item I'd recommended; all you had to do is write to me and tell me about the man that brings inspiration and honor to the title "Father."

Your responses came flooding in and wow, are there some amazing men out there! I so love to read your stories! 

I'm going to share two of them with you and I bet you'll agree that the gift bundles they will receive in the mail are well deserved.

Dear Delilah,

My husband, John, was not raised with a Dad. His parent divorced when he was an infant. Bad blood, meddling grandparents, and selfish thoughts (on both sides) kept him from having a relationship with his father. Growing up, he had his grandfather as a male role model. Unfortunately, his grandfather left the family when John was 10, again plunging him into the “fatherless” role.

Growing up, he wasn’t able to participate in the traditional father-son activities: father-son cake bake in Cub Scouts, Dad & me events, fishing on the lake, playing catch in the backyard, teaching him how to fight off bullies, showing him how to defend himself, how to tie a tie... the list goes on. 

Flash forward: A little over nine years ago, after five years of marriage, countless negative results-I’m pregnant. John bounced from feelings of elation right down to bone chilling fear. His biggest fear? He didn’t know how to be a father. 

He. Didn’t. Know. How. To. Be. A. Father. 

What did he have to look to? How was he going to show his daughter or son what a father looks like, when he didn’t know himself?

This man wept when he was finally able to look into the eyes of his son. He was overcome by a sense of the need to protect this innocent baby who was securely tucked into his arms. He proudly proclaimed to everyone that he was a father of a baby boy. 

Within the past eight years, he’s shown our son what it means to be a father. He’s present EVERY SINGLE DAY! He’s participating in all of the activities that he missed out on, with our son. Important life lessons, philosophical discussions, silly notions, and life’s quandaries are discussed around the workbench as they build their latest project. 

Sometimes, if you can catch him in just the right moment... you can see that lost little boy within my husband’s eyes and catch him smiling. For those moments, I am grateful. 

~ Shelby

Wow, what a powerful message! This man was determined to set a different course for himself and his child. I am so very proud of him, and all men who make the same choice to be a strong, unwavering presence in their children's lives! Please pass along a high five Shelby!

Dear Delilah, 

I am writing to you about my dad, Henry. I am one of 8 children. Yes I said eight! Four from birth and four born from the heart. Never was there a hesitant moment when my parents thought they couldn't take in another child from foster care that needed a home. My dad was always the one saying, "Let's do it. "

My dad took on two jobs for a bit to help cover expenses of so many children. He worked hard keeping the family afloat. 

Now I'm almost 40 and he is retired, yet he is still working so hard. He helps take care of my sister's children while my mom is at work, (she is a paraprofessional at a charter school in northern Michigan and has been doing it for 20 years or more.) He helps build props and sets at the school for no pay. He also plays in the church band every Sunday, participates in men's group, and sings for specials.

This past couple of weeks my father decided to use some of the money they had saved for renovations to create a fun outdoor area for the grandkids. He moved the fence to make the yard bigger, hand built the gate so his riding lawnmower would fit, set up new play areas and built a teeter-totter. He is so hand around the home and loves to do wood working and activities to make others happy. 

I just believe he is the most deserving father ever. I love him so! 

~ Thanks, Erin

Thank YOU, Erin, for telling us about this Super Dad. Taking on eight kids is not for the faint of heart (props to your mamma as well!) It sounds to me like your dad has discovered the secret to a happy life; loving unconditionally, keeping busy, and giving back.  Please give him my love and thanks for a job superbly done!

Enjoy your gift bundles fellas - there are great books, music, candy, and gift cards all packed up for you.

And now that you've read these, dear visitors, perhaps you understand why I ask you to write to me!

There are millions of amazing stories out there that delight and inspire. I want to hear them all! Please share yours with me too!

Drop something in my mailbox D@Delilah.com.

Celebrate Dad | My Top-Pick Father's Day Gifts

Shop my top picks for Dad's Day gifts and enter to Win-A-Bundle for the special dad in your life!

Dads are special peeps. They are the ones who who watched and waited anxiously for our arrival. Who paced the floor with us at night, taught us how to hold a hammer, taught themselves how to brush and braid long hair. They picked up and dropped off and yelled themselves hoarse on the sideline. They set examples and loved with all their hearts.

Their day is coming up on Sunday, June 17. It's time to celebrate dads! Just as I did last month for Mother's Day, I've chosen some books, music, candy and cards from some of my favorite radio sponsors to recommend as gifts.  And, just as I did last month...

I'm giving away two (2) bundles of everything you see on this page! Read on for directions to enter my Win-A-Bundle Sweepstakes! 

BOOKS!

From William W. Johnstone, bestselling western writer in the world:

THE LEGEND OF PERLEY GATES
by William W. Johnstone and J.A. Johnstone

The first book in the fiery saga of Perley Gates, a legend born out of the brutality and violence of the American West. Perley is a restless young dreamer who, like his famous grandfather and namesake Perley Gates--a hell-raising mountain man with a heavenly name--wants adventure, excitement, and freedom.

THE CHUCKWAGON TRAIL 
by William W. Johnstone and J.A. Johnstone

The introductory book in a series featuring a heroic chuckwagon cook who knows just what to do when cowboys get hungry—for revenge. 

RATTLESNAKE WELLS, WYOMING
by William W. Johnstone and J.A. Johnstone

The first story in a series about the West’s most dangerous boomtown, and the reformed outlaw who risks his life to keep it safe…

 Buy William W. Johnstone Books

God’s Gift For Fathers
by Jack Countryman

God strengthens fathers. He promises to walk alongside His sons as they raise future generations. With a modern design, and timeless content, God’s Gift For Fathers is a classic in the making. 

Buy God's Gift For Fathers

MUSIC!

The Rest of Our Life
Tim McGraw & Faith Hill

An autographed CD from country power couple, including the smash hit, Humble and Kind. As in life, Tim and Faith's meld together perfectly on the CD of duets; a collaboration of true love and perfect harmony.  

On a side note, Tim has recorded Humble and Kind in Spanish, allowing this important message to be heard everywhere: Listen Now: Nunca Te Olvides De Amar.

Buy The Rest of Our Life

I Knew You When
Bob Seger

You let me know how much you loved Bob Seger when I shared his video I Knew You When on Facebook.  That was the first track from his latest album of the same name; a tribute to his friend and Eagles front-man, Glenn Frey. Honoring love and friendship, it's the perfect selection for my bundle.

Buy I Knew You When

Revamp & Restoration
Elton John tribute albums

Some of the world’s biggest pop, rock and country artists are celebrating Elton John’s most beloved and legendary catalogue of hits with two albums Revamp (Island Records) and Restoration (Universal Music Group Nashville) out today.

With Mary J. Blige, Alessia Cara, Coldplay, Miley Cyrus, Florence And The Machine, Lady Gaga, Miranda Lambert, Vince Gill, Don Henley, The Killers, Demi Lovato, Maren Morris, Mumford and Sons, Willie Nelson, P!nk and Logic, Q-Tip ft., Queens of the Stone Age, Ed Sheeran, Sam Smith, Chris Stapleton, and More!

Buy Revamp & Restoration

CANDY & GIFT CARDS

Almond ROCA (includes a handsome hand crafted wooden gift box)
from Famous Candy Makers, Brown & Haley

Around since 1913, Almond ROCA is steadfastly remains a favorite candy of many - including me! Made from only the freshest ingredients, the combination of crunchy toffee enrobed in chocolate and coated in almond nuggets... it's an unmistakable Brown & Haley specialty. Appeal to Dad's sweet side, maybe he'll share!

Visit Brown & Haley

$50 Gift Card
from The Home Depot 

Most weekends, you'll find me wandering the aisles of The Home Depot. Whether Dad's interest is in gardening, grilling, or garage "sports", he'll find all he needs at The Home Depot!

Visit The Home Depot

I've got two (2) bundles all packed up and ready to ship out to two lucky dads. Are you thinking of a deserving man?

Write to me at Contest@Delilah.com and share a story of a great dad! 
I need your entries by next Thursday, June 14. 
The two winners will be chosen at random.

This I Know | June Book Club

Pick up This I Know

Set in a small Midwestern town at the close of the 60’s, This I Know by Eldonna Edwards, is a unique novel about a preacher’s third daughter, named Grace, raised with her sisters, Hope, Joy, and Chastity.  Welcome to June and my newest Delilah’s Book Club pick!

I was growing up in the same era, in a similar small town on the coast of Oregon, and most of the views and beliefs in the book’s community were shared in mine. I was immediately transported back to the halls of my school, my parents front steps, and felt the stares and whispers at Grace’s back when I opened the cover of This I Know.

Grace is gifted, which makes her different. Differences were to be feared and so her way of glimpsing people’s memories and secrets, and sometimes even their futures, was labeled witchcraft. Her minister father called it a sacrilege. It was to be kept secret. Grace calls it “The Knowing.”

This I Know is a lovely story about embracing the unknowable, about the redeeming powers of acceptance; self and others. Author, Eldonna Edwards, writes in a diaristic tone, the daughter of a pastor herself, who grew up in a large Midwestern Family. 

An amazing book, by an equally amazing author, I thoroughly enjoyed it and I know you will too! 

For more info about This I Know and author, Eldonna Edwards, visit www.EldonnaEdwards.com.

Buy This I Know