It's September!

September

The word "September" originates from the Latin word "septum," which means "seven." The original Roman calendar only had seven months and began in March; therefore, September was the 7th month of the year. But whatever the origin of the word, September rolls around every year and is often the time when school kicks off, although many schools now begin in August.

It's been many years since we had young kids at home and engaged in the annual "Back to School Gathering of Supplies." I miss those days of fresh boxes of crayons, brand-new backpacks, all clean and filled with paper and newly sharpened pencils and packets of felt-tip pens. There is a sense of new beginnings, of promise, when the new school year begins, and schedules are once again reinforced.
​
Whatever your age or stage in life, I wish you a happy September, a time of promise and renewal.

Book News

I'm delighted to share the September release of a wonderful new book of daily devotions: Always Near: Daily Devotions with God, published by the Presbyterian Publishing Corporation's Westminster John Knox Press. I am honored to have been asked to write an endorsement of the book, as well as to have some of my own devotions included. Here's a brief description:

“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.” Ecclesiastes 3:1

This beloved biblical quote begins this exquisite volume of 366 reflections, each grounded in Scripture and followed by a prayer. Offering even the busiest of readers the invitation to draw near to God each day, this daily devotional will be your guide to a deeper faith and closer walk with the One who created, redeems, and sustains us. Ideal for gift-giving throughout the year, Always Near offers timely insights for the seasons as well as biblical wisdom for daily living."

​I'll be using this daily devotional, and I encourage you to do the same. Let me know how it enriches your life.

---

I'm a Finalist!

​I recently joined the KidLit branch of the ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) and entered my newest book, See What God Made, into the Published Children's Book category. The book is one of five finalists for the award, which will be announced on September 12. I'll keep you posted! I'm deeply honored that ACFW KidLit recognized this book.

Sophie Says...

​​I start each morning with a Yoga pose,
"Downward Dog."
It's a great way to stretch
& greet the day!
Have a wonderful September,everyone!

---

Remember to follow me on
FaceBook, Instagram​, ​and my Amazon Author Page