Thoughts about exciting news

As I'm sure you've guessed, I love writing of all kinds. Part of the reason why I started this blog was to give myself an outlet to "publish" these thoughts. Over time, the focus of this little blog has grown and been shaped by the growth of my own passions.  As I delve into scripture my thinking theology posts reflect this (posts like Hearing & Doing or Thoughts on Community).  When I felt the Lord leading me to focus more on my writing, I noticed another change in the blog, like the addition of {Writer Wednesday} posts as well as my RE:View Friday posts focused on reviewing books.

You, my dear readers, have taken all of these changes in stride and I appreciate that so much! I love that I can come to you with thoughts on the Bible one day and introduce a new writer to you the next. I'm a bit eclectic and my blog reflects that due to the nature of my varying passions. In addition to the things I've already mentioned, I have also shared my thoughts in a more devotional manner in my recent Valentines Day Blues posts (found here). I really enjoyed writing those posts but I think what I enjoyed more was the feedback I got from the women who read the posts. I bring this all up because the news I have to share with you deals with that type of writing.

*Drum roll please*

I am now a monthly contributor to a brand new magazine and online blog called Her Glory! This is a wonderful place for women to come and be encouraged through articles and real stories of women just like them. The team of writers is extensive and covers a wide range of women in all walks and stages of life.  I love that there are married and single women as well as younger and older women contributing to this magazine and blog. If you are a woman, I'm sure you will find something on this site to encourage and bless you.

Used with permission from Her Glory

I love how the Lord has brought this into my life at just the right time. I've been interested in joining a site just like this but everything I looked into just wasn't "right" for me. You know, that little feeling that nudges your heart and you know not to take the next step. Then, one night I happened across a post from the Founder and Editor in Chief of Her Glory, Aysha Gerald, in a photography group I'm a part of. After checking it out, I just knew we'd be a good fit and thankfully Aysha thought so to!

Used with permission from Her Glory

I am excited for this next stage of my writing and what it will free me up to do with this blog. I love how thinking thoughts... has really morphed into a place for readers and writers to come and discuss books, writing, and occasionally a little practical theology.  I will continue on with {Writer Wednesday} and RE:View Friday posts in addition to my musings on writing as I take you with me through the trials and joys of attempting to be published.

I also invite you ladies to continue to follow my devotional posts at Her Glory. This magazine and blog is new as of March 1st and could use as much publicity as it can get! Check out thee Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram pages and help spread the word.

As for this {Writer Wednesday} I will give you a hint and say that if you are looking for a new book to read, you will need to check out the author interview on Wednesday *cough*GIVEAWAY*cough*.

Thoughts on Downton Abbey

Unfortunately, our {Writer Wednesday} guest was unavailable for today's interview.  While thinking what I could share you with instead, the only thing that came to mind was Downton Abbey.  And, a quick word of advice? Make sure you're saying "Down-Ton" not "Down-Town" as I've heard a few people say... ;)

I will admit to being completely taken in and transfixed with the characters, plot, scenery, clothing, and era of it all.  To be completely English about it - it's brilliant!

First off, let me mention that I'm only on Season 2, about 3/4 of the way through so I'm not totally caught up to speed here, but what I've enjoyed thus far has been marvelous. I won't comment so much about specifics - don't really want to give it away - but just a few themes that have caused me to think. 

Sacrifice.

So many characters sacrifice so much for the sake of their station, their love, or even their own homeland.  It is so interesting to following the characters, both 'upstairs' and 'downstairs' and to see their different pursuits and ways that they must sacrifice - whether that be for good reasons or bad.  I often am amazed at the attitude of some of the servants - for some, it really is a passion as much as it is their livelihood.  Downton gives us the opportunity to see a house of this magnitude within context.  It's not so much about the divide between the lord and his/her servants but more of an ecosystem in and of itself.  Very interesting and quite entertaining.

Forbidden love.

This one is all over the place in this series! Whether it be a maid and an officer, a married man with an unmarried woman, or a love that spans classes in an "improper way" for that time - it's rampant at Downton.  Aside from blatant, unbliblical types of love, I have focused in on the "love that spans classes" as something wholly romantic and beautiful.  I'm sure at the time it was seen as an abomination, but to my writers imagination it's the fodder of great stories.  It has me wondering "what if" for future plots.

Then I tied this type of love to something even greater - God's love for us. It's kind of the same idea, isn't it?  Christ sacrificed Himself for us - His dignity, His standing, His life all because of love (John 3:16). I don't know about you, but that overwhelms me! I definitely see the potential for writing an allegory in the future.  It's been done, but why not just one more story that parallels God's love to us?

Well, it's back to my manuscript for now.  I've been working on rewrites for the last few days and can't wait to be ready to move to the next step!

Are you watching Downton?  If so, I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.  Who is your favorite character?