Events & Latest News
Click here to see the Infuse 2010 promotional clip
Click here to hear a Radio Interview about Infuse 2010 on KRKS 94.7FM
Holy Spirit-Led Creativity Event
Will Offer Worship, Workshops, and Community
Infuse 2010: A Creativity Encounter, is a creativity conference to begin the evening of Friday July 30th 6:30 and go until 9 p.m. then continue all day on Saturday July 31st, 2010 ending at 7:00 p.m. (We will have a discussion panel which means the event will end closer to 8 p.m.)
The Location:
Student Ministries Building, Grace Chapel Campus,
8505 S Valley Highway in Englewood, Colorado
Infuse 2010 is an exciting gathering of artists of all disciplines and mediums who will enjoy Spirit-led worship, presentations, workshops, community and more in order to understand their value and role in God's plan for the arts. These creatives will be equipped, encouraged, discover their God-given, untapped potential, and build new relationships to help them have a greater impact for His purposes. He is generating a movement, a New Renaissance, grounded in and propelled by His Holy Spirit rather than that of humanism. As artists, we have an opportunity to participate in it, but must be ready. Infuse 2010 is one of the ways to become prepared, gain a fresh perspective and receive clear direction from Him to do just that.
Workshops include Journaling and Psalms, Spirit-Led Collaborative Painting, Spirit-led Worship (Instrumental, Vocal, (experienced only please) and Movement), Reclaiming Sci-Fi, Fantasy & Horror, Writing a Personal Bible Commentary, When Your Creative Side Gets You in Trouble, Writing Villains, Introduction to Biblical Dance, Guard Your Heart & Mind: Bootcamp for Creatives, Songwriting 101, Prayer Shawls & Needle/Fabric Projects, Bibliodrama, and The Root of Sensory Experience & Fruit of Possibilities.
General sessions include Casting Call: What is Your Role in the Story God is Telling? By Kirsten Wilson, Nearly Blind to New Vision by Selah Cohen, Imago Dei: Creator, Created, Cross and Creative by Todd Horner, and Collaborating with God for the New Renaissance & Practical Tips for Daily Collaboration with God by keynote speaker J Scott McElroy, author of Finding Divine Inspiration: Collaborating with God in Your Creativity.
But that's not all!! This just in We will have a panel of instructors before the close of the event (which ends closer to 8 p.m. with this addiiton)! This is a great time to ask questions and glean valuable tips! All this for only $65.00? Yes! Register for meals separately on the Store page ($27 per person for breakfast, lunch and dinner on Saturday plus snacks and bevberages both days) or donate whatever amount you are able to on the Donations page. Every bit helps to fund the ministry. Thank you.
During the worship sessions attendees will see worship flag dance, enjoy beautiful music, and Sabbath blessings. Also included are inspiration from various presenters, dramatic monologues by performer Kirsten Wilson, dance presentations by the Inner-Court Dancers, and painting by Victoria Selby and Lynda Finch (www.greatcompany.org).
There will also be video clip presentations by professional actor Chuck Neighbors (www.mastersimage.com), Janice Elsheimer, author of The Creative Call and Growing Garden Graces
http://www.jelsheimer.com
, and cartoonist Dave Weiss
Dave Weiss http://www.creativeworshiptour.com/profile/DaveWeissAMOK
The cost is $65.00. Web-feed registration is available now, but requires a minimum of registrations so don't wait. In-person registration does not include meal option or materials charge payable to instructors. Register by going to www.SensoryBibleExperiences.com and to the Store then Events Page.
If you still have further questions after reading through this page, please call (720) 346-8278.
Welcome begins July 30th at 5:30 p.m. and will include orientation materials, light snacks and beverages, gallery viewing, music interactive art projects and more. The event officially begins at 6:30 p.m. and main workshops will be on Saturday July 31st. Keynote and panel will be Saturday evening.
For further media information or to be added to the SBE update list, please send us your name, email and phone number using the Contact form. Thank you.
June 3, 2010
Announcing the Infuse 2010 Workshops!
Registration for individual workshops is available on the Store Page and is included with your early or regular event registration. Most workshops listed take place Saturday July 31st unless otherwise noted. Workshops are 45 minutes in length including time for reflection, prayer and discussion with the instructors.
Introduction to Biblical Dance
Encounter One Session 10:00 a.m. -10:45 a.m. (Subject to slight changes)
An exploration of the origins of the ministry of dance, how it was used in the temple and everyday life, followed by a beginners Hebraic Praise & Worship Dance class.
Dawnita Carlson has been a believer in Yeshua (Jesus) for over forty years and served with Messianic Praise & Worship dance for the past twenty-three. She currently leads and teaches for InnerCourtDancers, an inter-congregational intercessory dance ministry. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/innercourtdancers
Spirit-led Instrumental Worship
(For experienced musicians and vocalists.)
Encounter Two Session 11:00 a.m.- 11:45 a.m. (subject to slight changes)
Learn how to follow the Holy Spirit's promptings when playing or vocalizing. Various musicians, dancers and vocalists will collaborate on this session. Bring your instrument, voice or body and join in!
Writing Villains: Why We Need the Bad Guys for Good to Prevail
Encounter One Session: 10:00 a.m.-10:45 a.m. (subject to slight changes) Why do we need the bad guys to shed light on good? Find out why and how to write them in the best way possible. N. Paul Williams, author of Ripper Grimm and Unpublishable, pushes the boundaries of Christian Fiction in the hopes of reaching a lost world, and to inspire his fellow disciples to be daring—as well as unconventional—in their walk with Christ. After all, “Sometimes calling people out of the darkness means going in after them.” www.NPaulWilliams.com
Fingers of Love: Prayer Shawls and Needle/Fabric Projects
Encounter One Session 10:00 a.m. - 10:45 a.m. (Subject to slight changes.)
A discussion on the joy of creating shawls, blankets, and simple clothing as an expression of God’s love for others using texture and color. This will include some craft time. Bring your own current project or work on one included for an additional $7.00 cash payable to the instructor.
J. Christine Richards is a writer, speaker, and mentor loves to learn as much as she can about the Word of God and help others do the same. Her ministry, Passing the Quill, is helps others meet God in through professional and person writing. www.PassingTheQuill.com
Reclaiming Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror
Encounter Two Session 11:00 a.m.-11:45 a.m. (Subject to slight changes.)
Most believers are terrified of Science Fiction and Fantasy because it's thought they contain elements so devilish that the modern Jesus or God follower should run screaming in the opposite direction. However, when one understands the works of CS Lewis, JRR Tolkien and Jenkins & LaHaye's 'Left Behind' series, the readers discover these works are filled with Godly images and uses the 'tricks of the trade' so to speak, of Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror. May also include new writers in this genre as well like Jill Williamson's Fantasy Series published by Marcher Lord Press.
Dana Bell is a published author, speaker and educator with many years' experience in the Science Fiction and Fantasy genres.
Bibliodrama as a Tool for the Creative Spirit
Encounter Three Session 11:00 a.m.- 11:45 a.m. (Subject to slight changes.)
Bibliodrama is an interactive Bible study method which uses various techniques to invite the audience to step into the sandals of biblical characters. The participants will imagine what each character may have thought, felt, or experienced during certain points of Biblical accounts and will learn that Bibliodrama is a dynamic catalyst for healing and worship.
Instructor Phil Armour M.MFT; (Licensed Professional Counselor; Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist) has a busy private practice in Longview, Texas, enjoys spending time with his family, and is passionate about challenging people to explore their creative talents. Read more about him on his site:http://www.philarmourlpc.com/
Spirit-Inspired Collaborative Painting
Encounter Three Session 12:30 a.m.-1:15 p.m. (Subject to slight changes.) Required intro will be immediately prior to this, from 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. during the lunch break.) $8.00 cash payable to instructor.
Learn how to listen to the Spirit and work alongside others as you create a beautiful piece in unified worship. Victoria Selby is a professional muralist and art educator who loves to inspire God-given creativity. She holds a B.A. from Columbus College of Art and Design and began to use her Spirit-given gifts in 1995. Her site is
www.yourmiragemurals.com
Victoria is offering an Introduction to Mural Painting class in the Southeast Denver area, Victorian Peaks Collection, 11024 S. Pikes Peak Drive, Parker, CO 80138. Class meets every Tuesday for six weeks from 5-8:30 p.m. Start date will be announced when minimum enrollment is reached. Will include lecture, demonstration and participation.
You will be inspired to at least “Dream Big.” You will also receive a booklet of lecture notes and instructions on the demonstrations. Sign up for individual classes at $35.00 each plus materials fee or all six for $132.50 plus matrials fee.
vselby09(removethisspace)@gmail.com
Harmonics: A Movement Sequence to Set Our Bodies Free
to Soar in the Spirit.
Encounter Three 12:30 p.m.-1:15 p.m.
Cheryl Yarusso has been involved in Sacred Dance for many years and is currently leader of the Grace and Glory Worship Dance Team associated with Vinelife Church in Longmont/Boulder, Colorado. In addition to presentations in special settings, the team offers workshops six times a year where people are invited to come and learn how to worship body, soul and spirit. All levels of dance or no dance experience are welcome to come and fellowship and worship.
Songwriting 101: Essential Elements
Encounter Three Session 12:30 p.m.-1:15 p.m.
Find out what makes a good worship song. Learn about various songwriting tools that will give shape to the music you write such as form, rhythm, and poetic devices.
Instructor Lynne McDowell has a B.A. from Colorado Christian University and is currently working on her Master's degree at Colorado University Denver in Library Science. She has released two CDs which contain many of her original songs. She has been on the worship team at Congregation Roeh Israel for the past 11 years.
Hide the Word to Grow Deep:
How to Write a Personal Bible Commentary
Encounter Three Session 12:30 p.m. -1:15 p.m.
The Living Word of God helps us every day through its general principles or a message to us about a specific circumstance we may face. We will explore what God has to say to us as we create our own personal commentary on Scripture. Learn how this technique can bring deeper understanding to your study of the Bible.
J. Christine Richards is a writer, speaker, and mentor loves to learn as much as she can about the Word of God and help others do the same. Her ministry, Passing the Quill, is helps others meet God in through professional and person writing. www.PassingTheQuill.com
Character Matters:
When Your Creative Side Gets You in Trouble
Session Four Session 1:30 p.m.-2:15 p.m. (Subject to slight changes.)
Discover how creatives let common character traits get in our way to becoming who God wants us to be. Learn how we can work through them as well as the internal resistance we face in our calling as artists.
Kirsten Wilson is a writer, speaker, teaching artist, and founder of Tear the Curtain, a ministry to artists of all kinds. www.kirstenwilson.net
Nearly Blind to New Vision
Will now be a general session Saturday morning. (Subject to slight changes.)
As God heals Selah of a retinal disease which threatened her sight, He is moving her from human perception toward a heavenly perspective. She compares her own journey to the challenges faced by creative individuals and encourages them to move forward in His vision for them.
The Roots of the Sensory Approach & Fruit of Possibilities
Encounter Four Session 1:30 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. (Subject to slight changes.)
God created us to be sensory beings and filled the galaxies with creativity. This is a highly interactive writing, art and group activity workshop designed to help creatives trust Spirit-led impulses, act on them, and fan the spark into an exciting flame. Freelancers and those in ministry will leave this invigorating and inspiring session with several new and easy ideas.
Guard Your Heart & Mind: Bootcamp for Creatives
Encounter Five Session 2:30-3:15
Learn how to prepare for and make it in the artistic journey with insights into truths from the book of Romans, coupled with awareness of the enemy's tactics and how to avoid pitfalls in the faith-based creative life.
Selah Cohen, founder of Sensory Bible Experiences, Resources & Productions, is a producer, multimedia artist, writer and speaker with a passion to help creatives discover and follow God's calling on their lives.
Writing from the Heart: Journaling and Psalms
Encounter Five Session 2:30 p.m.-3:15 p.m. (Subject to slight changes.)
This workshop is designed to unlock the writer's heart in each participant, leading to a deeper intimacy with God. It will release the power of the written
word for His purposes.
Julie Engler Miles, a woman after God's own heart, experiences a deep intimacy with the Lord when she puts pen to paper in His presence. Over the past ten years, the Lord has released healing, revelation, and streams of living words through her private writings which she now shares with others. While she calls her writings "cries of the heart", others often refer to them as poetry, psalms and prophetic.
Live jazz by Frank Selman http://www.myspace.com/frankselman
Frank Selman, a Denver, CO native and current Denver resident has been playing the guitar since he was 12 years old. Frank appreciates anything musically that is well done and loves to play all styles of music but would classify himself as a "blues guy with a soul jazz edge". Frank has recorded with Darren Rahn, Mel Brown, Jonathan Butler, Eric Darius, Jeff Lorber, Jay Soto, Wayman Tisdale, the Woodies and has performed and shared the stage with Tim Bowman, Eric Darius, Greg Karukas, Marion Meadows, Darren Rahn and Kevin Toney .
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With additional web or video clip appearances from Janice Elsheimer, author of The Creative Call, professional actor Chuck Neighbors www.mastersimage.com, ministry cartoonist Dave Weiss http://www.creativeworshiptour.com/profile/DaveWeissAMOK
Friday, July 30th 6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. & Saturday, July 31st 8:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Then the LORD said to Moses, "See, I have chosen Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability and knowledge in all kinds of crafts-
Exodus 31:1-3 NIV
It does not, therefore, depend on man's desire or effort, but on God's mercy. ..."I raised you up for this very purpose, that I might display my power in you and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth..."
Romans 9:16-17 NIV
But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of Him. For we are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing.
2 Corinthians 2:14-15 NIV
"Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit," says the LORD Almighty.
Zecharaiah 4:6 NIV
This last week God blew me away with answers to prayer, opened doors and incredible experiences! Several more people expressed interest in the event and will receive this overview for the first time! Thank you to all those who are praying for this event. The Holy Spirit is so faithful to lead and direct it! Here is the latest as I understand it and He may change things as the planning continues. It is very exciting!
Find out that the Holy Spirit:
- wants to meet with His creative children
- has given you value, equipped you and will infuse you with power and creativity so...
- you can diffuse, shine, sound, and proclaim God's love and presence that it may be poured out on the people
- is leading other creatives in this exciting area and wants you to share in it
- will draw together experts in various disciplines that we may learn from them
- desires to help you discover creativity during hands-on workshops
- desires to unify His creative children, network them to help each other and be in their midst
Prices, registration, lodging and other information is forthcoming.For those not able to join us in person, we are looking into an online feed. Stay tuned. Registration costs still apply
Don't miss out! Send us a message including your name, email and phone number using the Contact Us form.
April 28, 2010
SBE to Produce and Facilitate
Infuse 2010: Creativity in Ministry
Friday July 30th & Saturday July 31st Denver, CO
Plans are under way for this unique symposium for all those interested in or already implementing creative approaches to ministry in small, medium or large-scale ways. This will be a chance to get together to find out what others are doing in this innovative area, hear speakers share on a variety of topics and enjoy relaxed, refreshing time to build relationships. Applications are being accepted for speakers, presenters, presentations, art exhibits, worship leaders and devotionals. Please request more information on how to apply using the contact link on the left. More information will be available soon. Please sign up for updates on the Contact Us page. Enter your name, email, phone number and specific areas of interest with a reference to Infuse 2010. For those not able to attend in person, we are exploring web feed and other online options.
March 30, 2010
Sensory Bible Experiences Seeks Performers and Crew
for Unique Productions
Sensory Bible Experiences, a unique Bible-centered ministry in the Denver area seeks members ages 18 and up for a very special team which will create and perform short to full multimedia productions in various venues throughout Denver and surrounding regions. Interested individuals must be passionate about serving God and sharing His love through the performing arts in unique ways and have experience in one or more of the following: acting, dance (lyrical, modern, Hebraic/worship), visual arts, theatrical lighting and sound, Final Draft, Photoshop and Final Cut Express, voice, costume and prop construction, assistant direction and production, and promotion. Email phone number, cover letter, head shot, resume, references with contact information, website, demo reels and digital images of work to contact@sensorybibleexperiences.com with Touring Team in the subject line.
March 4, 2010
Applications for Seasons of Rebirth are now being accepted!
The date and location are to be determined, but if you want to present a topic, share a performance or display some of your artwork related to rebirth, please send a brief bio of your experience and focus areas, samples of work, a handout for the audience and outline of your talk, if applicable (25-30 minutes). Date and location is to be determined.
Seasons of Love Offered Up Encouragement,
Friendship and Delectable Dessert!
Naomi S. and Dianne Daniels got to know each other while
learning how to make an easy Valentine's Day dessert.
Several ladies gathered last weekend to enjoy talks by Dianne Daniels, Carey Holm and myself. Dianne shared how to look at the different ways we can show love in our parenting, Carey encouraged us to keep the passion in our marriages by running out the "foxes" that can ruin our relationship with our husbands, and Selah spoke on how to avoid losing heart in the challenging times we are living in by stoking the fire of our love for God. We enjoyed some laughs, some delicious coffee and dessert and newfound friendships.
Carey Holm shared how to keep those pesky "foxes"
or passion-stealers out ouf our marriage garden.
"I came away with new ideas for my children and my marriage. While I am encouraged, I know my family will benefit the most from my attendance at the Seasons of Love event." -Nancy R. returned for her second event.
Chris R. and Dianne discussed parenting.
Thanks to all who attended and to our wonderful speakers.
Our next Seasons Series event will be in May. Stay tuned so you can join us!
Happy Valentine's Day, everyone!
John 3:16 is true for you!
___
The event is the second in the Seasons Series of talks featuring local presenters. Seasons of Love is an evening of encouragement and expertise about how to infuse parenting with love, how to become a godly and sensual woman, and how to rekindle your love for God in these difficult times.
Featured presenters are Dianne Daniels author of Mothering Like the Father: Following God's Example in Parenting Young Children; Carey Holm, teacher and missionary, and Selah Cohen, ministry director and Bible teacher.
Guests will enjoy these informative talks, sample a romantic dessert, and make new friends in a relaxed, fun setting. Copies of Dianne's book will be available for sale immediately following the presentations. Delicious treats and beverages will be available at a separate cost.
Seating is limited, but reservations will be accepted by emailing your name, number in your party and phone number to: contact -@-SensoryBibleExperiences- .com. (remove dashes and spaces) or use the contact form to the left. Registration deadline is February 4th, 2010.
Week of December 22, 2009
Speaker, Musician and Visual Artst Needed for Seasons of Love on February 6.
Our Seasons of Love event on February 6 has openings for one of each. This is a great opportunity for a semi-professional and professional artist to be chosen to display their work and be featured on our blog. For more information see the below and use the contact form or email as soon as possible.
Callout for Semi-Professional and Professional Artists,
Designers and Performers.
Are you a dancer, actor, visual artist, painter, vocalist, puppeteer, choreographer, light, set, costume or sound designer/operator or other type of artist who wants to volunteer their talents and gifts to collaborate on or contribute to projects that will impact eternity? Sensory Bible Experiences wants to know about you! We are looking for semi-professional and professional artists to contribute to or collaborate on various types of endeavors such as stage and film events, galleries, church performances and more both in the Denver metropolitan area and online. Please send email with your contact information, website link if applicaple, and the following attachments: bio, resume, headshot and five minute reel/portfolio images to contact@Sensory - Bible - Experiences - .com (remove spaces and dashes). You may also use the contact form at left.
Week of December 7, 2009
The Creative Call Wrap-Up
The Creative Call book discussion will wrap up this week. We are covering chapters 5-8 and the conclusion. Join us in Lone Tree, Colorado this Saturday or online on the Second Renaissance page. Our next book will be Madeleine L'Engle's Walking on Water and we will discuss one chapter a week beginning January 11th.
Seasons of Love Presenters or Artists Wanted
If you live in the Denver area, you may be one of five featured presenters/artists (if you can ship your work to us) for our Seasons of Love presentation. The second event in the Seasons Series will be held on Saturday, February 6th in Parker, Colorado and will focus on the theme of love in celebration of Valentine's Day. There is no pay for speaking or displaying work at this event. It is designed to give you exposure and treat the community to a relaxing and informative presentation. Please note that presenters and artists are required to help publicize the event through free venues such as social media and are responsible for any costs incurred. This is a small venue, so artwork needs to be a small to medium size. Talks are to be 20-25 minutes in length and related to the topic. Please submit a synopsis and outline to be considered as a speaker or examples of your work (sculpture, hung artwork, textiles, paper/recyled materials, other crafts) if you would like to be a featured artist. We look forward to hearing from you. If you are interested in presenting, please read the paragraph below, then email contact@ -Sensory - Bible - Experiences -.com (remove spaces and dashes). While not entirely a conservative event, please do not submit any work involving nudity, graphic violence or adult themes. Thank you.
August & November 2009
November 12, 2009
Seasons of Parenting Event Offers Up Great Delight
The event was a huge hit! Thanks to all who attended and to our speakers! Here are some photos for you to enjoy. Our next event is scheduled for February and more details will become available in the next few weeks. Unfortunately, Dianne Daniels was not able to join us due to a last-minute circumstance. She will be a featured speaker at the February event.
With hot coffee and tea in hand, treats nearby and smiles on their faces, the attendees settled in for a cozy and engaging evening. The talks were interspersed with ice-breakers and door-prize drawings. No one left empty-handed, hungry or in need of great information to apply to their lives. One new fan of the Seasons series said, "It felt like a mini-retreat. I felt so refreshed the next day. Thank you for a wonderful evening and I can't wait for the next!"
Megan DiMaria revealed how to put some spice into
our relationships using a sensory approach.
Good friends, great information and fabulous
treats made for an unforgettable evening.
Michele Cushatt and Megan took
a moment to catch up before the event.
Megan's Book Table
Michele shared some tips for single-
parent and step-parent families.
An excited attendee. She went home even happier.
The next Seasons Series event will be held in February. Please check back for more information.
The Seasons Series of talks is designed to offer the Parker, Colorado community informative, encouraging and fun events focused on a theme and to give local authors, speakers and artists an opportunity to share their expertise and craft in a short, engaging format. If you would like to suggest a theme for an upcoming event or want to be a presenter please send us a message using the form at the left.
***
Michele Cushatt on Single-Parent and Step-Families
Catching up with Michele Cushatt is no easy task, but we managed to find some time to chat by email. For Seasons of Parenting, she will be sharing secrets that single-parent and step-families can use to enrich their family life. She is the director of Words for the Journey Christian Writers Guild in Denver, is a professional speaking coach with Dynamic Communicators Workshops, runner, musician, mother and wife.
Selah: Hi Michele. We met at Words for the Journey, the Christian writers guild which you direct here in Denver. I remember how you made me feel so welcome my first day there. It is such a great group for writers in the southern Denver area since it provides information and encouragement in a fun, lighthearted format. Now we get to find out a bit more about you as a writer. How long have you been writing and why is it so much fun for you?
Michele: I've been writing seriously for a little over three years now, although I think my creative side has long ached for an unleashing. Writing is like art for me, much like painting is to the painter and composing is to the musician. Few things ignite my inspiration like finding and fusing the right words and stories into something magical and powerful.
Selah: That is such a great analogy. It is true that we as writers create in a similar way to other types of artists. Tell us a little about your book/blog/career. How did it evolve and which sections/posts are closest to your heart?
Michele: Blogging began as a means to spread the word about a mission trip to Africa in 2008. I wanted people at home to feel like they were on a trip with us. It's evolved from there, but still has the purpose of inviting readers to join the adventure.
Selah: That is a great genesis for what is now a multiple-article blog. I enjoy your transparent and genuine voice. Do you have any new projects in the works you can tell us about?
Michele: Thanks. Not yet, though I can say that I'm working on two different non-fiction books and a novel (which is a crazy amount of fun).
Selah: During Seasons of Parenting, you will be speaking on Secrets for Single-Families and Step-Families. Why is doing so/this subject important? Please give us a sneak peek until we can hear you then.
Michele: The subject of single and stepfamilies is important to me first because it's personal. I've experienced both and recognize the unique struggles that accompany single and step parenting. Although this is a increasing need in our current culture, there aren't many Christian resources available to this growing population. My goal is to provide a few practical secrets as well as help those in single and stepfamilies to feel less alone. And, for those who haven't experienced these unique scenarios, I'll give you tips for encouraging and supporting your single and step parent friends.
Selah: I agree that there is a big need for helps in this area. I can't wait to hear more about it that night. You will also be giving away a copy of your Chicken Soup for the Soul book, so it is a great opportunity for anyone to attend and enter to win it as a door prize. Thanks so much Michele and I wish you every blessing as you write on for God's glory.
Visit Michele on her blog www.michelecushatt.com for engaging and authentic writing on a variety of topics. For information on Words for the Journey you can visit www.wordsforthejourney.org.
***
Dianne Daniels to Speak on Patient Parenting with Young Children
The event features four presenters, one of whom is Dianne Daniels, founder and owner of Mothering Like the Father Ministries. Dianne is an author, speaker, and certified parent coach. She has a heart to encourage and equip moms to follow God more closely in their parenting. Dianne lives in the southeast area of Colorado but she and her two daughters really "live" at Michael's where they are constantly searching for craft supplies for the Girl Scouts. She says her husband lives at Home Depot.
I caught up with Dianne, who lives a busy life of family, ministry and writing to ask her about her book and the event. Spend a few minutes with the two of us over some virtual punch and fishy crackers.
S: Thanks for taking the time and for the yummy snacks; it's been a while since I had these. So tell me a bit about how you got started in the writing arena.
D: I have been writing since I was a little girl, and even won my school district's writing competition in 5th and 6th grades. Writing Christian non-fiction became my passion about four years ago. I love finding ways women can personally apply God's word to their mothering. Sometimes God can feel far away when we are busy with all of the changes and commotion that accompany early childhood. Helping women see how closely God holds us during this time of life means so much to me.
S: So you started pretty early and are now moving into more of a calling. I am sure that is such a need among and blessing to moms. How did things progress for you as a writer after grade school?
D: My professional writing career evolved from journalism and business writing to the much more personal work I do today. My degree is in technical journalism/public relations, so after college I primarily wrote press releases and marketing pieces like brochures and newsletters. When my first daughter was born in 2001, I stopped working for money and also stopped writing. My focus was soley on being a mother and figuring out who I was in this new stage of life. When the writing bug came back, I knew I wanted my work to be meaningful in spreading the word about God's love for His children. My book, Mothering Like The Father: Following God's Example In Parenting Young Children is so special to me because of how much I personally learned about my Father while writing it.
S: That is quite a journey! What is in the project toy box for you next?
D: I have a couple of different different devotional guides in the works right now. Hopefully they will be done next year. I also started a second book that compliments Mothering Like The Father, but God put that on hold for now.
S: I can imagine running a ministry and being a mom can get pretty busy. I can relate to that. You will be speaking about patient parenting during the event. Why is it a topic so close to your heart?
D: Most people tell me they had plenty of patience until they had kids. I think we get frustrated with issues surrounding our children because we love them like crazy and we want things to go well for them. We are passionate about our parenting and sometimes that can make us more emotional than normal.
However, it is important that we remember that we are teaching our kids our values in the way we respond to them. Very few of us want to teach our kids how to yell or how to flip out. We want to teach them self control and respect, but that isn't always what we demonstrate. Keeping our patience in check has a lot to do with managing stress, and we will go over some tihngs to help with that at Seasons of Parenting, as well as some techniques for teaching kids about patience.
S: So true and difficult sometimes. Thanks for giving us a preview of your talk. I know it is good to have some different techniques to use when that happens. It was fun getting to know you and I pray that your ministry is blessed as you continue to work with parents.
Need a great parenting manual? Dianne is giving away a copy of Mothering Like the Father as one of our door prizes at the event, so make sure to register soon. There's only one week left until reservations will close! Find out more about Dianne's ministry by going to:
www.motheringlikethefather.com
***
Megan DiMaria: Make Your Relationships Spicy
Megan DiMaria, a freelance writer for 20 years who is the author of two women’s fiction novels, Searching for Spice and Out of Her Hands, both of which are set in the Denver area. She is a member of several writers’ groups, enjoys encouraging other writers in their pursuits and women to embrace life's demands and delights.
Curious to know more about Megan's background and why she believes in keeping things spicy, I asked if she had a few moments to answer some questions. Grab a quick cup of tea or coffee (with lots of spice, of course) and join us for a few moments...
S: Hi Megan and thanks for joining me. In your first novel, the main character wants a steamy love affair with her own husband. What started your love affair with books?
M: Ever since I was a young girl, I’ve loved to get lost in the pages of a good book. Mom used to pile all the kids into the car and head to the city library each week. I would wander the stacks and stacks of books to select my next adventure. I can still close my eyes and transport myself back to the Children's Room where this portrait of Gulliver's Travels would feed my imagination.
S: How long have you been writing and why is it so much fun for you?
M: I’ve been writing fiction for my own pleasure since I was in grade school. In 1995 I decided to write a novel. It took me about three years and was not very good because I had yet to immerse myself in the publishing industry by joining writers groups, attending conferences, joining a critique group, reading books on craft, and writing consistently. In 2001 I joined American Christian Fiction Writers, and in 2006 became the assistant director of Words For The Journey Christian Writers Guild. I love to write and express my creativity. When I do, I feel more complete, as if I’m doing what I was created to do.
S: That is fantastic. It must be very fulfilling. Tell us a little about your writing career. How did it evolve and which book is closest to your heart?
M: I entered an ACFW unpublished writers’ contest in 2005. The book I entered in that contest, Searching for Spice, was the book I pitched at the 2006 ACFW Conference. I received a two-book contract for Searching for Spice and another unnamed book in the spring of 2007. Searching for Spice and its sequel Out of Her Hands were both published in 2008. I’ll always love Searching for Spice because it’s my debut novel, but I also like Out of Her Hands because I think each book I write is better than the last.
S: Do you have any new projects in the works you can tell us about?
M: I’m currently writing a book I’m calling Absolution, it’s about learning to forgive yourself, and I’m absolutely loving the way it’s unfolding.
S: During Seasons of Parenting, you will be speaking on spicing up your relationships. Why is this subject important?
M: When I think of something spicy, it conjures up thoughts of flavors and scents that awaken our senses. I think you should purpose to keep all your important relationships fresh and dynamic.
S: You've got my attention with the sensory thing, lol! That is a great way to apply the same concept to our relationships. I can't wait to hear more on November 12th. Thanks for taking some time to tell us more abaout you and your writing passion. May God richly bless your next project and writing journey.
You can find out more about Megan on her website: www.megandimaria.com
If you attend the event, you may just win a copy of Out of Her Hands, which Megan has generously offered as a door prize. Thanks, Megan!
Come enjoy great information, door prizes and more.
A Speaker and Book-Signing Event
Seasons of Parenting, an evening of encouragement and expertise about patient parenting, secrets for single parent and step-parent families, how to put the spice back in your relationships and God as the perfect Parent. Featured presenters will be Megan DiMaria author of Searching for Spice and Out of Her Hands, Michele Cushatt speaker and author, Dianne Daniels author of Mothering Like the Father: Following God's Example in Parenting Young Children and Selah the Scribe, online ministry director, event producer and teacher. Enjoy door prizes, freebies and a chance to make new friends in a relaxed, fun setting, then stay for the book-signing immediately following. This first event is free so feel free to make reservations for yourself and a friend. Delicious treats and beverages available at a separate cost. The event takes place Thursday November 12th, 2009 from 7:00 until 9:00 p.m. at Kunjani Coffea, 10009 Jordan Road in Parker (corner of Lincoln and Jordan, behind McDonalds). To hold your spot since space is limited, please send your name, number in your party and phone by using the Contact Us form at the left of this page or by calling (720) 346-8278.
Reservation deadline is November 10th, 2009.
If you are a speaker, author or artist interested in participating in one of our presentations, please use the Contact Us form to tell us a little about your experience, background and your area of expertise or interest. We will be in touch with you within two weeks. Thank you.
This page will include special live events and multimedia presentations like webcasts, podcasts and more. Also visit the Resource Center, a great list of helps for your artistic journey, check out the Second Renaissance Page for a discussion on creaitivity and faith as well as the other pages on the site for more!
