Sometimes dreams unfold slowly. Often the journey to fulfillment takes many winding and bumpy roads before the path emerges onto a smooth road. That’s when you look back and realize it was worth all the effort to get to the highway. That’s how I feel with the re-birth of the Deer Run Saga.
And in just one week, the brand new cover for Road to Deer Run will be revealed. The book itself will release on December 10.
The idea for Road to Deer Run was planted in my heart in 2007, exactly four years after the death of my daughter. It was an anniversary of her loss spent like most—hiding under my bed covers. I had no intention of climbing out of my quilted cave to face a world without Bethany. Then an inaudible voice spoke to my heart. It was as clear as if I’d heard it with my ears: A directive to write a book based on my ancestors.
Well, that wasn’t in my plan. I was already working full time as a nurse. Besides, I had given up writing altogether. I had tried creating an article one time after Bethany’s death, only to realize that bleeding words onto a keyboard was far too painful. No more writing for me, I determined.
And then the still small voice beckoned me out from beneath the covers.
I was confused, not to mention embarrassed. What would I tell my husband? Apparently God had that taken care of as Steve did not question my sanity, but took me to the used bookstore to start my research. It was just another adventure at the Cooper house.
So after a stint of self-publishing in 2010, the Deer Run Saga has a contract with a new publisher, new edits and brand new cover, which I can’t wait to share with you. Road to Deer Run’s cover will be revealed first.
In the meantime, I’ll share photos of a visit to the land of my ancestors in Massachusetts. The path they trod, the stone walls they likely created, the granite monument that now memorializes where Daniel Prince built his first home in America. It was an inspiring journey of connecting with my family’s past while seeing God’s hand in the present.
I’m so glad you listened, and still listen, to that still small voice.
Thanks so much, Janet. I always appreciate your support and belief in my writing. ((HUGS))
Elaine, I’m excited about the cover reveal, too, and hope that readers enjoy what we have planned. I think that’s so cool that there is a monument to the house Daniel Prince built so many centuries ago. How amazing to have that evidence of your ancestors. My grandmother was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution so I know my ancestors have been in America a long time. But I lack any other evidence. Perhaps some day I will have the time to do some deep research into my family tree. Take joy in the fact that you have this knowledge and evidence of your heritage.
I do take joy in it and am grateful for the research that other family members did. It helped pave the way for the discovery of this Prince monument. I hope you do have the time one day to discover your family history as well. It is an adventure. 🙂
Elaine, your journey is SO encouraging – it gives me hope in my own. Please keep us posted! I can’t wait until the book is available!!
Dear Sheryl, I’m so happy this encouraged you! Praying the Lord blesses the work of your hands and your heart. 🙂
Elaine, so very excited for you! It was special of you to share the pictures of land your ancestors once walked on and called home. I wish you continued success on your writing endeavors.
Thank you so much, Renae! May the Lord bless your endeavors.
I really relate to your story, Elaine. It’s so wonderful and exciting to see how God works in our lives!
It makes me shake my head at times. God is so much more creative than any of us could fathom. Thanks for stopping by.
Hi Elaine. I can’t wait to see the cover. I enjoyed seeing the pictures of the monument and path. My father has done a lot of family history and traced our family back to Europe. He has found some interesting information. I am so glad you felt God’s nudge and ventured forth on this journey. He truly has done a marvelous work through you.
Thank you so much, Sheryl. Encouraging words, for certain. Researching family history is an amazing adventure of discovery. So glad your father was able to uncover some interesting family facts. 🙂 Be blessed!