This post has been written nearly ten times now. I write, and then I delete. I write, and then I tear up. I write, and then I watch the second half of Bring It On on TBS.
And when it ends and comes on again, I watch the first half that I missed. And then I google “Bring It On” because I can’t remember what’s-her-name’s name who plays the captain. Then I write some more. Cry. Delete. Google.
Why this crazed, insecure, distracted grasping for words?
Because two weeks ago, I signed a contract to write two books for Baker Revell. Apparently there is nothing like a two-book deal to make me overwhelmingly unproductive.
And now you know.
It isn’t a memoir, but I can’t write this book without telling my story. And maybe yours, too, if you’re willing to share it. The proposal I pitched was for a book for high school girls, as many of you already know. Turns out they wanted that one and they asked if I would be open to writing one for grown up girls as well. Both are about living life from a place of freedom and rest rather than from behind that worn-out paper face we have convinced ourselves is really us.
There’s more, of course, but for now, I just wanted to share the news with you. My first manuscript is due in August and the book will be released in the summer of 2011. The second book will come out in 2012. I’m really excited. And humbled. And terrified. It is also surprising to me how the elation I thought would come with a book deal has completely alluded me. Instead, I sit between signing a contract and a manuscript deadline with a shiny new set of fears and insecurities that I never knew would exist this side of the dotted line.
I hear vague Jesus-whispers in the background: Live the truth you say you believe. My girl heart freaks out and wants to hide. His voice is kind and inviting, and I consider it a great privilege that He loves me enough to let me be a part of what He is doing. Because it isn’t about a book or a deal or a publisher. It is about truth. In the midst of my fears that perhaps I’m not smart enough or poetic enough or brave enough to write non-fiction that matters, I know that He is present and active. And I know this isn’t about me.
It has felt like a long process, but in the world of book publishing it’s actually happened unusually fast. If you are interested in knowing more of the nuts and bolts of proposal writing or the publishing process, I would be happy to direct you to the resources that helped me so far. Thank you for being such an encouraging, safe group of people with whom I can share this journey.
Wow. Congratulations! You are a wonderful, inspiring writer, and no doubt your book will be the same.
Congratulations! Looking forward to both.
Congratulations, Emily. Writing is truth…and truth resounds loudly through your words. I am beyond thrilled for you. Go forth and bless with your gift of voice.
Congratulations, Emily!
I was just quoting your highly-scientific babysitters’ poll to my husband on Saturday. What a wonderful gift you have.
May you step out of the fear and face the fun of writing what you already know – and discovering what He waits to show you.
In Him,
k
That’s so exciting! Congrats, and I’ll be praying for you!
This is awesome! Congratulations– I can’t wait to read more!
How very exciting! Can I go ahead and pre-order now? I’ll take one for me and one for my high-school daughter. I’ll be praying for you during this whole process…promise.
My heart claps for you constantly.
SO excited for you and to be able to read the book(s) in the future! Praying for you tonight! Thanks for sharing
Bravo, Emily! Good on ya! While I haven’t been reading your blog as long as others have, I know God has totally equipped you to do this thing. He has given you such a gift, girl…these books will bless so many and He will be glorified!
I would love to hear more about your proposal/publishing wisdom when you are able to share!
I clicked through from The Nester’s Blissdom Linkup and I’m so glad I did. Congratulations on your two-book deal! This is my first time here, but I’m still thrilled for you. I can imagine you have a million emotions, but this is very exciting.
I would appreciate a post or email with some of the resources you used. But more importantly, I hope to meet you in Nashville!
PS – I am in love with the look of your blog. Clean and beautiful.
How exciting! I’m so happy for you. I know they will be fantastic and you’ll become a super famous author. I hope you’ll always have time for you blog friends.
I would love, love, love to know more about the process of how you pitched the book, etc. I have 2 manuscripts just floundering in my hard drive.
Just found you thru Kelly…and I am glad I did…
This post moved me…stirred my soul anew…
Thank you!
Bina
i think you are all of those things that you are afraid you aren’t. and i can only imagine the magnitutde of feelings surrounding your soul. but rest in it a moment. take heart. and keep listening. because He is telling you the truth. and you know He will lead you through! and me? i can’t wait to see you on the shelf
I knew it couldn’t be long now; He had that deal waiting just around the corner for you! A book like this has been needing to be written for awhile now. We are behind you 1,000%; just let us know how we can help!
Wow! That is awesomely amazing! I’ll be praying that the words the Lord would have you write flow freely from your thoughts to your paper (or computer screen!). So excited for you.
I wondered when you were going to share with the blog world, and I am glad you did! This should be a fun process to chronicle.
Wow, Emily! This is very exciting; thanks for sharing with us. Can’t wait to read the books!
I always knew this day would come. You’ve always been a writer. The world is a better place because you are here. Thank you for gifting us with your story.
I am so excited for you, Emily. And you know what else? I got a knot in my stomach full of anxiety on your behalf. I would love to know the nuts and bolts of it all. Maybe we can have a coffee date at Blissdom just the two of us and we can talk about it. Can’t wait to read your books.
How exciting for you!!
Congratulations! I’m stopping by from your dear sister’s blog. I think I may just have to stick around here and peruse YOURS! 
Have a great day, Emily. 
“In the midst of my fears that perhaps I’m not smart enough or poetic enough or brave enough to write non-fiction that matters, I know that He is present and active. And I know this isn’t about me.”
HE will give you the words. And they will be beautiful. And real. And encouraging. Can’t wait to buy it, read it, and share it with my daughter!!! Blessings!
I’m so happy for you…Especially right now in my life, I am so thankful they have asked you to write one for grown up girls too! This will be a huge blessing for so many. You go girl! You inspire me so much by living out your dreams, aside from your fears and insecurities.
Wow! Congratulations!!! And not one, but two books! There is nothing better than going into a bookstore, pulling a book from a shelf, and seeing YOUR NAME right there in print for the first time. Ok, there are things that are better, but it’s a great feeling just the same.
Now go get to writing!
Congratulations! What wonderful news. Don’t stress so much – God will give you the words.
Oh congratulations. And wow.
But you don’t have to listen to those. Listen to God’s whispers instead, the ones that encourage you to “Live the truth you say you believe.”
Nothing says “real writer” like a swarm of fear and insecurities, right?
Bravo, my friend. What a scary, delightful, breathtaking journey He has you on. Can’t wait to read the truth He speaks through you.
Why all the tears silly? You clearly can write, I mean they gave you a book deal didn’t they? You must have gone to them with an outline and a plan, right? Now, just have faith in what has gotten you to this point and take the next step. No more tears, just go do it girl!
Wow, Emily. What an opportunity. May heaven bless you as your write truth~there isn’t a better person to do it!
Congrats Emily, how cool!! I can’t wait to read them. Don’t let the pressure get to you. You are a natural.
Emily… Congratulations!!! I look forward to reading them both!
What an AWESOME opportunity! You’re a gifted writer – praying for you during this exciting, scary time.
Congratulations! That is great! I’m sending a prayer up for you.
I am so excited for you! Congrats!!!!!
Congratulations! This is a huge announcement – one book would be amazing but two – you go girl this is fantastic. I look forward to hearing more about it.
Jade
Oh wow Emily this is Amazing! Isn’t it truly astounding to think of what God can bless us with when we completely open up to Him? I can’t wait to read them both. You are such a talented writer…it was just a matter of time
Congratulations!
congrats – such exciting news! I’ll be praying for you as the process unfolds…so exciting to get a glimpse of how God is using you to help write His story! Woo hoo!!
Congratulations!! No doubt it will be amazing. God will walk with you thru the whole process…..don’t doubt yourself or His power!! You go, girl!!
suzanne
Oh, Emily. Emily.
Jumping up and down and clapping my hands and laughing and crying and shouting to the computer “She did it! She did it!”
I am beyond thrilled for you. Not surprised, not at all, for I’ve grown to know just how good your writing is. And I don’t just throw out “You’re a good writer” compliments to everyone. You’re an artist, both with words and with camera.
You’re remembering that it’s not about you, and that’s good. But then again, it is about you, too. God has given you a gift, and now He’s given you an incredible opportunity to use it. You, the very girl Emily. Just you.
But then you get back to the part where it’s not about you, for you are not yours. You are His. And He has everything you need.
Be assured: we’ll be praying that He’ll be very generous and gracious in providing just the right things just when you need them. We do love you so.
Congratulations!! How very exciting for you, I look forward to reading what you produce! I would like to know what books/resources helped you in developing your book proposal. I’ve had two ideas for book proposals clanging around in my head, but there’s so many resources, it’s hard to know which ones to pick that will be helpful! Please share which ones helped you!
I am SOOOOO excited for you! CONGRATULATIONS!
One of my goals is to have one of my books published, and you have given me a huge dose of inspiration to keep on keepin’ on today.
THANK YOU!
Layla
Congrats to you! I will keep on reading up on your blog about your progress. I just so happen to have a teenage girl so any advice you might need give a hollar and I’ll ask her. Apparently I know nothing about being a teen in her eyes. lol. Best of Luck!
Congratulations! I am sure it will be wonderful, as well as a growing experience. Just remember that with God beside you ALL things are possible and he wouldn’t give you anything you and HE couldn’t handle. Your in great hands!
Keep us posted on your progress. Again, Congrats!
I don’t comment here much, but do love your blog and wanted to step out and say Congratulations! Wishing you many smooth, fluid writing moments from this point forward!
I’ve been waiting for this post. SO EXCITED for you, Emily!! You’re going to do awesome!!
I don’t know if it’s PMS or what, but I have tears rolling down my face after reading this. I am so thrilled for you. I think the tears come because it’s impossible to see God at work and not be deeply moved.
I can’t wait to oh-so-casually leave your book(s) on my coffee table. And then when a friend innocently picks it up, I can be totally insufferable talking about how I know the author and what a total peach she is. Because really, this is all about me.
Yay you!!!!
Congratulations, Emily. That is wonderful news. I was just wondering about this yesterday.
Isn’t it amazing how we learn truth from the Word and it really gets into our hearts and changes us…but then something else happens and wow…we realize we still need it to go deeper yet…Praise God that there is NO END to Him, neither is their condemnation…only delight!
I will be praying for you, Emily!
Shilo
congrats emily! and hooray!
I SOOO get where you are. Not that I’ve ever been in your shoes with a book…just the looking ahead at doing what God has called you to do and not sure if you can do it. or do it as well as you would like to do it.
You are so gifted and called to write. Remember, this is God’s deal. He’s not going to help you do it–He is doing it and using you. And continuing to shape you in the process. And blessing us all in the process too. He’s so cool like that.
I wonder if writing a book is like birthing a baby. You want it so bad, and then when you are pregnant you wonder what you were thinking, and can you really do this big thing? And deep down you know you are a vessel and God will do this miraculous thing in you. But there is still the natural worry. And then you feel a little sick. Yup. Maybe you are having book-morning-sickness…
hugs to you! we’ll pray you through your book pregnancy. :0)
Emily – I am so proud of you! And not at all surprised, you have been given a gift with words and I am excited to see you use them for HIS glory! I love watching God at work!
I’ll be praying for you friend, for motivation, inspiration and perseverence. And mostly that his words and his message will flow as you write.
Wow, Emily, how exciting for you! Nester said her sister had big news, and she was right! Congratulations on this new journey of yours. God will be with you the whole way!
That’s wonderful news! I’m thrilled for you, Emily. I love your writing and can’t wait to read your books.
I work as a writer and totally understand that freak-out feeling when you get a contract to write something. My husband is always confused by it–”Why aren’t you happier about this?” It’s hard for me to be happy until it’s turned in and I get the thumbs-up from the editor–that’s when I start jumping up and down. Ha.
Congratulations!
That’s awesome news Emily! I remember when we all used to play together when we were kids and now we are all grown up and finding our own successes. Best of luck to you
Praying that God’s hand will rest powerfully upon you as you write the words He supplies.
Bless you for going where He leads and leaving a trail for others to follow behind.
Rejoicing with you in your good news. Make sure you have a team praying for you throughout the project.
Oh Emily! Congratulations!
That’s such wonderful news to read this morning.
You’ll do fabulously! Cannot wait to read them!
Oh, wonderful!! I’ll keep posted on the progress and how to find a copy when it is published. ALL THE BEST! Janell
Here we go! Let’s pretend it is only a one-book deal for now…bite sized pieces are easier to swallow.
He is sufficient…stay in touch.
In celebration of you and in acknowledgment of my (sort of) Japanese heritage, I have written you a congratulatory haiku. Yes, I’m serious.
Author Emily
You signed on the dotted line
Start typing swiftly
Okay, so it’s mostly lame. I tried. I’m also a mess of happiness about this.
I’m with Kendra, minus the haiku…
Being with you on this whole, big humongous God thing is surreal. I’ll never forgot our conversation when you mentioned testing the waters by writing some of your Good girl ideas on a blog for the high school girls….and that was such a short time ago!!! AND NOW THIS! Emily – women, teens (and the men) need to hear what you have to say…
and I can’t wait to be someone to share you message (by pointing them to your book
I’m so happy for you and can’t wait to get your books! The Lord will provide the words you need when you need them.
Congratulations! Bring It On can only help your creativity-writing a book is like getting to Nationals, when you get there, Bring It!
Let our Savior speak through you, open your mouth and He will fill it.
Congrats! I am so happy for you! (((BIG HUGS))) There is NOTHING that will give you writer’s block like someone saying “Yes, we want you to write!” Been there, done that (but not in a book deal.)
I can’t wait to read your books! With two girls that are huge readers, I can see these floating around my house for years to come.
I am honored to be *in the know*. I will pray that Jesus will give you the words you need to share what He wants shared. Look forward to reading your words. Bring it on!
Congratulations! I’m so happy for you! I know the idea of actually writing the books must totally freak you out, but take a deep breath and tune into that part of you that gives you peace and let’s you know that you can do this…that you’re meant to do this.
I’m really, truly so happy for you.
Oh my goodness, I am so excited for you. Your writing has touched all of us that read your amazing blog, and I’m thrilled for you (and us too) that God will now touch so many others with your words. Congrats, just relax and be Emily. She’s fabulous.
SO wonderful! You can do it and it’ll be great!
Emily, that is incredible! Congratulations! And, wow. Just…WOW. I can’t wait to read your books!
That is SO awesome! I’m thrilled for you!! Many many blessings to you, Emily!
Stacey
whoa girl! so exciting
thank you for sharing this awesomeness with us!
xo
I knew you’d been quiet for a reason. Oh Emily. This is so cool for you. I cannot believe how much of you this means you will share. And I will pray and be thinking of you often. Four years of photography processing have taught me what deadlines do to inspiration.
If you need to vent, call me. My number is on my photography site. I’d love to (giggle) CHAT.
Golly, so amazing!
Emily! I can’t think of anyone who has earned this success more — your words are truly heartfelt, honest and breathtakingly beautiful. And you are going to make such a tremendous impact on young girls — the perfect audience to hear your powerful and inspiring words!
And yes, please advise on all things publishing — I need help!
Thank you!
I am rejoicing for you — God is good! And He knows how to get His Word out through gifted people like you!
Waiting with baited breath to read your God-words. So proud of my friend!
oh do not write delete & tear up any more
& certainly do not watch bring it on , in episode format!
you are going to rock these books & i can’t wait to see your finished product!! & have a house full of young girls who will greatly benefit from it !
now whipe you nose & go forth & write
we are championing you on!
( did i spell that correctly? you being a writer -n-all intimidates me!
What an amazing journey you have embarked on. Congratulations! And maybe if you keep it in mind that it isn’t about you or the deadlines your creativity will open up and you will be able to set aside the fears and write freely. Again congratulations! (clap, clap, clap)
Eeeeeekkkkk, Emily!! That is fantastic! You are am amazing writer and totally deserving of TWO books!!!!! YAHOO! That is fantastic! I can’t wait to hug you in person to say Congrats.
And God is working in and through you with this amazing opportunity! Just awesome!!
And I think the Bring It On girl was Gabrielle something… because I haven’t watched it 42 times or anything.
CONGRATULATIONS! Sounds like you have a BIG project ahead of you
Emily, couldn’t be happier for you! I’m so excited to see what God is going to do through your words. Already, I feel richer for having read them here. Please do post on the nuts and bolts too. I’m sure it would be a great encouragement to many of us to have some tools that have worked! Congrats!
Wow! Congratulations! Congratulations! Congratulations!!! You are one of my favorite blogs!!! I will be passing the news onto all of our readers too. I will be asking them to be praying for you through this process. God has something special to say through you…just relax and let it flow.
God bless you and the message you are about to share…may you continue to feel God’s present as you write…just relax and do what you do best…listen to our savior! I am soooo excited for you!!!
We at Life Interrupted, zoelog.wordpress.com are pulling for you!!!
yay for you!!!1
I love it! Yay! Can’t wait to read them… I’ll have high school girls soon enough and will love to have something to share with them.
Congrats, friend! I feel honored that you shared your “elevator pitch” with me and giggled in the halways of the hotel before you were rich and famous.
Blessings,
Sandy
I’m way down here at the bottom of all of these comments that gush with accolades to add my own! My hands are waving in the air and clapping and I’m jumping up and down with joy for you. You must feel ready to burst! Congratulations!
So proud of my sister-author-friend! I saw it coming a year ago … yup!
You will bless and help many. And I can’t wait …
HURRAY!!! So excited for you and excited to read what you write. I’ve been hoping and praying you would get your book deal – this is so good. God bless you!
Write what you feel, and as much as you feel-you’ll have an editor, who will help you whip into shape anything that distresses you (and your editor). This is a great opportunity, grab it with both hands!
Oh, Emily, I am thrilled for you. Congratulations!
God is SO good and He’ll bless you by giving you the words you need to write and speak about these topics. CONGRATS!
(Don’t tell your sister, but I cheated and came here first before reading her {in}courage post.
I cannot wait to read these books. They’re so needed, and God will use you to communicate the message. I’m so happy for you. (And for us.)
wow! so excited for you and agreeing with others that it’s more than time for a book, I mean books!, like yours.
Oh EMILY!! CONGRADULATIONS!!!!
Now, where do I place my order????
Congratulations – that’s fantastic! I’m sure it is scary, but you’ll do a wonderful job.
Congratulations! I’m sure you’ll be wonderful and I can’t wait to read them! I am interested in the whole thing if you wouldn’t mind sharing.
emily … i hopped out of reader to leave you an encouraging word … but oh my, what love and support i’ve just found here!
God must be smiling, having a child who’s obeying and listening to what He asks of you. I feel you, in that there’s fear, doubt, insecurities. But God wouldn’t have given you the challenge if 1) He thought you’d fail. and 2) if He wasn’t going to be beside you through the process.
i absolutely can’t wait to see your journey unfold … my heart and face are smiling for you!!
I happened upon your website by clicking on a link from your sisters blog – I was very curious… your announcement about your upcoming books brought tears to my eyes – I can’t wait to read them! and you’re inspiring to me – just the way you described what you’re going thru during the beginning of this new season of life was something I could really relate too LOL!
I know what you mean (well not exactly, no book deal here) but even as I hear Jesus whispering to me to keep writing through my grief right now, and I sit and begin…I get nervous butterflies that my words won’t do Him justice for all the work that is being done on my heart and my home. Freaking out after some major success is like that, I think. We feel like maybe it was a fluke we got there and now everyone will find out that it was a fluke…but YOU KNOW God is with you and inspires every syllable and there’s no way these books won’t be amazing and for His Glory.
I am so so proud of you for all the steps and sweat and tears you’ve put out there thus far, and I know they are only the beginning. Praying for your process, that your heart be steady and open and your soul at peace.
xoxo
Ari
CONGRATS Emily! So happy for you too!
Congrats! I cant wait to here more about it!
that is very exciting!
“He who began a good work in you WILL carry it to completion” , and “Now to HIM who is ABLE to do exceedingly above all ..”
Those two verses came to mind when I read your blog-He has set you “at such a time as this”. It is humbling and nerve racking-but thats when God shines best in us! His power is made perfect in weakness-how funny! but true! He’ll direct your steps-words-and it will be wonderful! Congrats! Val
Congrats, Emily! I am so excited for you! I have been reading your blog for awhile but I don’t know if I’ve ever left a comment. (oops!) Anyway, I have a dream to write a book and would love to hear more about the details of your journey. I have been struggling with the “fears” of writing. I recently read a Proverbs 31 Woman email devotional about hoarding…made me realize that by not sharing my experience (what I want my book to be about) I am hoarding! God gave us the desire to write so that He can speak through us to bless other people who need to hear what we have to say. Anyway, can’t wait to hear more…you are a beautiful writer!
***
You will do simply amazing because you have those fears. I think that will help you be more in-tuned with God’s will for your writing. It’s awesome that you’ve taken that step and are sharing your story through your writing! I have many thing bubbling up inside me but not quite ready to let it out
And, I’m sorry to share this in your comments, but turns out I’m not going to be coming to BlissDom. I so would love to video chat with you and The Nester across the hotel room, but now it will be with me at home and ya’ll in the hotel room. I hope and pray that ya’ll have a wonderful, blessed time there! Maybe I’ll catch you at the next one
Congratulations. You will do wonderfully. Believe in yourself and you won’t be disappointed. Becki
Emily –
We celebrate with you – because when one of us rises, we all do. You are a light and a reminder to us that there is much to do in our Father’s Kingdom and room for many. Go get ‘em girlfriend! And do please share part of your journey of getting them for those of us who are still traveling!
Lisa-Jo
As He would say: ” Well, done my good and faithful servant.” You’re writing is truly one of the best gifts for me to open each day.
Thank you for following God’s call to tell the TRUTH in this selfish world we live in.
God Bless
Congratulations! YOU can DO it! Stand in your fear and push your way out!
I’ve been tearing up all morning over all of your encouraging words. Thank. You.
EMILY!!!!!!
WOOO HOOOO!!!!
Oh. my. stars. I have knots in my stomach and it’s not even my news! I know I don’t really know you but I feel like I do because I’ve read every word of every post since I stumbled through your doors nearly 2 years ago. You are such a gifted writer, Emily, so adept at cutting to the core of an issue in a way that is compelling, clever, honest, and wise. I’m so happy for you and feel honored that you’d share your big news with us!
So is it too early to pre-order? : )
Congratulations! How exciting! What a blessing, I’m sure these books will be. When you’re feeling overwhelmed and stressed just think about how many girls you will bless!
I just experienced a total exercise in futility trying to open a bottle of stripper to redo our mantle. So I took off the gloves, the goggles, the alien mask my husband has to keep his lungs clear when he’s woodworking and came in to check your sister’s blog hoping to find some redemption in the day — other than the phone call I received from a future employer who might be worth my time and effort because their benefits are wonderful for someone who loves to travel. Then your sister’s blog directed me here — and I usually read you too. Then I got a glimpse of legal papers and thought No! Not a divorce!!! lol! I settled down enough to read the rest of your post and now have goosebumps up and down every part of me! I’m so thrilled for you — for someone who really does have something worthwhile to say because Christ lives in her!
I’ve been home for over a year wanting to work on the novels — the stories God has placed in my heart. But the distractions are many, especially for those of us who know we are called to write something that will help lead others (and ourselves) to the Truth. So I salute you and pray that you will hear His voice so clearly that it won’t be difficult to be focused and the words will flow easily. The world needs to hear what God has to say through you.
And yes! Please send me any information you have regarding proposal writing.
en Agape and Shalom,
Victoria
I’m thrilled for you! And the reason I keep coming back is because YOU are real and honest and vulnerable! And I need that! I love it! Keep doing what you do! see ya at blissdom!
Hooray for you! Can’t wait to buy and then read your books! Awesome.
Thrilled thrilled thrilled for you! Can’t wait to read it! I guess I’ll have to;)
A little bit of fear, joy and expectancy do a heart good. So proud of you!!!
Congratulations!! I’m so excited for you and know that by following this path God has laid out for you, He will direct your steps and even your very words.
I would love to hear more about the proposal writing and publishing process, specifically whether you used an agent or did this on your own.
Congratulations – You should be very proud. I wrote a book about decorting and was like you at first, elated, but frozen, in shock, disbelief, I am not quite sure what is was. My husband who is so supportive, told me to just take a break from it for a few days or a week and when I went back to getting down to writing and organizng my thouhgts they flowed out of me. Good Luck and best wishes for continuing success.
Diane
I just met you and I am so encouraged for you. The Lord intends to do a mighty good work through you and He will provide all you need. I look forward to keeping up with your writing! Blessings!
Laurie
That is Awesome!
Emily, what wonderful news! You will be just fine, I have no doubt. You’re a gifted writer. I recall my first book contract caused quite a stir in the kitchen… hubby and I dancing around singing “Ce-le-brate good times, come on!” The euphoria was short-lived however. Panic set in as soon as I remembered my deadline. LOL! When all is said and done, though, it’s just a matter of one sentence at a time, as you already know. I look forward to reading your work.
God has called you to be a light in the world. What a blessing that is! I’m so proud of you for accepting His will for you in spite of how scary it is!!
This is THRILLING! I know God has purposed so much in your message. So many congrats!
CONGRATULATIONS Emily!! GOD is so GOOD and ALWAYS FAITHFUL! You have such a gift for the written word. I cannot wait to read them both. I would also love to know what resources helped you in this journey.
I will be praying for you while you write the words God has already placed on your heart and soul. Such exciting news!
Blessings and Grace to you…
so excited for you girl!!!!!!
utterly fantastic news!
congratulations!
chosen for a reason… you are a blessing… with so much to share!
just like you know… He’ll get you through it.
Emily ,
you will write your heart,
and breathe the Jesus in you on us.
as you always do.
congratulations,
and thank you , thank you.
Girl, you are so cool! And it’s normal to be nervous when embarking on a new path, but I know you’ve got it in you. This is so exciting! You’ll be like Laura Ingalls Wilder without having to bop that pig bladder over to Nester!
I hear vague Jesus-whispers in the background: Live the truth you say you believe. That quote really hit home with me, thank you so much. I believe that you are very gifted writer and I look forward to reading your books!
i am so excited for you! but i completely understand your fear. it can sometimes be terrifying to get what you want. but i know you’ll do great!
I am so thrilled and excited for you Emily! What a wonderful thing! I will be praying for you as you begin writing. I know the Lord has great things in store.
Congratulations Emily! I praise God that you have a heart to serve Him with your writing. Women need to hear about living a life of freedom through Jesus! I appreciate your blog.
GOOD FOR YOU SISTER! Steppin’ out of the boat like that! Keep looking ahead and he’ll broaden the path beneath your feet
!
I have a quote in my Bible from JI Packer that says the Holy Spirit guides our minds as we think things out in His Presence.
So.so.so happy for you. I pray God gives you grace to do His will.
Well it’s about time! Congratulations!!! I can not wait to read them both! I can not wait for my daughter, who is only 8 by the way, to read your book! Thank you! My prayers are with you!
Emily! That is amazing! I’m so excited for you and can’t wait to see what you end up with. I have such a passion/burden/heart for teenage girls and all they go through and all they need to know about purity and relationships and just that God loves them so much. I’m really excited for you.
Best wishes for your book writing journey and have fun!
What a marvelous accomplishment – congratulations! Hopefully the feelings of elation will elude you no longer and you’ll be able to revel in the joy of it all before you buckle down to work. My husband wrote a novel and we have looked into getting it published, but would love some insight into your process. Thanks for offering to share your publishing tips and blessings upon you as you write.
Emily . . . congratulations! The entire staff at Westover are thrilled for you. I can also say your husband is overcome with “good pride” and joy for you. God has gifted you for this moment. Walk in it!
Great News!!! I am so happy and excited for you.
I can’t wait to read your bookS!
Whoa! Wow! Yee Haw, this is awesome! I can’t wait to follow along on this journey and buy and read your books!
Hi, and CONGRATULATIONS on such a wonderful experience. I just came across your blog this afternoon, and can’t wait to read more. God bless!
Jennifer
I am so happy for you, Emily! As I read about your excitement, insecurities, and terrified-ed-ness (I TOTALLY made that word up…can you tell?) I can relate a tiny bit. After your fantabulous sister referred an online shop to me and my tassels, they have asked me to make tassels for them, eventually hoping to put them in a brick-and-mortar shop. I was and still am all the things you said…excited, humbled, and terrified. But my wonderful husband keeps telling me the same thing we’re all telling you…this is God’s way of saying, “See? I told you you could do it!” : )
Emily!! This is so wonderful! I’m excited for you and know that God will give you everything you need along the way. Step by step.
I love you, friend!
Emily~ I am so happy for you! Congrats!
Blessings to you and this new exciting chapter in your life!
I am so thrilled for you!! What an exciting announcement!! I know that both books will be highly successful, and I can’t wait to read them. Congratulations!!
How exciting, Emily! Big congrats, I wish you the best with your news.
wow, this is so exciting! congratulations!
Girl, I can so totally get how you are excited and terrified all at the same time. Keep trusting in Jesus and don’t quit when the devil tries to get you down.
I’ve got goosebumps–this is such exciting news!
Rebecca
How very exciting! Congratulations! I hope that the nerves will settle down for you and that you will enjoy your book writing process. You are gifted and talented, and we will all enjoy reading your books! Your blog is a warm and encouraging place. I know that your books will be wonderful too.
Wow, Emily! That is fantastic! Congratulations!
After these two, how about a coffee table book with your awesome photographs?? You are so talented, Emily. Way to go!
Congratulations on this exciting new project! Or two.
I know that if God provided you with this amazing opportunity, He is going to give you exactly the words that need to appear on all of those pages. I have a feeling the women who come here regularly to visit will have all the excitement for you until it shows up one day and surprises you!
just wanted to share an encouraging song….
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vhQvVRSMtTU&feature=related
I believe in you!
i agree with Richella: “You’re an artist, both with words and with camera.” i know nothing about writing, other than your words resonate so clearly with me. i know that He that is in you will be poured out on the pages that you write…He will enable you and He will be seen. how exciting to able to “read” His message unfold through you.
First of all, congratulations. Now, don’t delete! Who knows how this mysterious process of writing our thoughts on paper works, but I can tell you, that in your moments of doubt, you may have stumbled on something truly wonderful. Keep writing – everyday, about anything – and you will magically finish your book.
I just found your blog today and I have bookmarked it for future reading.
HUGS FROM MAINE
157 comments … you may not even see this…but I had to say it…
Yes, Yes, Yes, you can do it…you have been prepared for such a time as this. The Lord has equipped you with a ability to put into words the human heart’s murmurings. I will be praying…cause the warfare will be much in this process…just remember it is all smoke and mirrors…You must get this message out…so many captives He wants to free…You are definitely the vessel for this mission:)
Woo hoo! I’m so excited for you, Emily and to read your books! I remember telling John way back, when you lead our small group study one week, that I thought you were so intelligent and talented. Now, God is using you to do something (else–(In)Courage is awesome and I’m so proud of my friend the contributing author) really big!
yay!! this is so exciting. my friend katie and i were talking about you and your book/blog while running today – congratulations
So i’m pretty sure i’ve probably told you this a million times, but I really and truly admire you. Everyday when I get on my blog I scroll down to see if you’ve posted anything. You have a way of speaking things so simply. The way you take every day life and parallel it to something the Lord is speaking to you is beautiful to me.
Congrats! He will do great things through this book…
How wonderful to have a two-book publishing contract,
I love your phrase “Jesus-whisper.” While I was trying to write a book, another book just appeared. I believe the Lord sent it. It was definitely a Jesus-whisper. I have written a book proposal which I hope is good enough to interest a publisher.
Congratulations and I love your site
I am a huge fan! (Just have to get that out of the way) =D
I think your new journey is so exciting! Congratulations! You will be amazing!!
I would be so thankful if you could share with me the process of proposal writing and the publishing process. I have been working on a book myself, and I have no idea what to do with it when I am done – ha-ha. It is a book about my brother with special needs and the emphasis that people with special needs aren’t “broken”.
I would love to know what to do with it when I am done.
Congratulations on everything.
Congratulations, Emily! This is wonderful news!! Kelly
Congratulations !! I love reading your post and can’t wait to ead the books.
Congrats to you!!!!! You are going to be able to do it! I am a closet/struggling writer myself who has been afraid to take that proposal step…. Just remember, you already write almost every day! You already are a writer! Eye on the prize and can’t wait to read it!!!
Wow! CONGRATULATIONS! Totally not surprised…I love the way you write!
Did this evolve from your publisher meeting at She Speaks? Congratulations!
So wonderful! Congratulations. I would LOVE to hear more about your journey to a book proposal.
Wow!! How amazing and exciting!
God called you to this place, and He will see you through. I’m awed and inspired.
“Both are about living life from a place of freedom”…is a thought I have been mulling over for several months. God sets us free from sin and I believe He also sets us free to fully be the person He created. I grapple to hold onto that freedom everyday, but I see others living it and know it is possible, so I have hope of capturing that elusive privilege. I am interested to read what God has and will inspire you to say in your books. Thanks for not giving into fear!
Congratulations, Emily! What great news!
“I hear vague Jesus-whispers in the background: Live the truth you say you believe. My girl heart freaks out and wants to hide.”
Your book writing journey is an inspiration to me! … and I loved the part about rest and worn-out paper faces. LOL. It’s too true, not to be funny and alluring.
Your book’s destined to jump out out of the bookshelves, into hearts.;)
I’m so glad I decided to check in today (even if I am late for your announcement). Congratulations to you, Emily! I have enjoyed following you and your sister on your blogs and was inspired by the two of you to attend the Women’s Conference at Southpointe Church last summer. (I introduced myself to you after you guys did your part of the program) That has nothing to do with anything right now except that I am delighted to be acquainted with both of you and enjoy any success you guys experience!
I’m the mother of teenager (turning 19 tomorrow….YIKES) and will look forward to your book with interest.
I totally get this – “Both are about living life from a place of freedom and rest rather than from behind that worn-out paper face we have convinced ourselves is really us.” – and love how you’ve put it in to words.
A week shy of my 28th birthday I fell (from a standing position) off a chair and broke my pelvis in three spots. I felt like an 82 year old trapped in a 28 year olds body, with the sleeping patterns of a 2 year old. Never before have I experienced “rest” like I have these past 8 weeks of my life. Never before have I been so humbled. I’ve been given the gift of seeing me as God does. And going from 100 mph to 0 has changed my perspective on life. And even though I haven’t physically rejoined the rat race, I know it will be different. This has changed me and I am so excited to live in a place of freedom and rest, rather than the woman I thought I had to be.
Thanks for putting in to words, what I could not describe.
God’s riches as you continue your journey – being used by our amazing God.
i am excited for you, emily, and i understand. i have a book published, and have another one with three major publishers. it’s a difficult but rewarding journey. bless you.
in the hush of the moon´s last [type] ..wild strawberry picnic