Episode 329: Blessings of God's Love with Glenys Nellist

Episode 336: A Castle and Creativity - A Look at the Retreat

Summary This episode provides an inside look at a creative retreat for children's writers and illustrators, highlighting planning, activities, and the transformative potential of the event. Key Topics * Retreat planning and logistics * Activities for writers and illustrators * Inspiration and creative growth Takeaways * A well-planned retreat can spark creativity and community. * Choosing a unique venue like a castle enhances inspiration. * Structured activities like scavenger hunts and pitch parties foster growth. Sound Bites * "God led us to do this retreat." * "Come join us and spark your creativity." * "Pitch your story idea to an agent or publisher." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Everyday Discipleship 01:28 The Purpose of the Retreat 02:58 Planning the Retreat: Challenges and Changes 03:56 Exciting Venue: The Castle Retreat 05:23 Activities and Events Overview 11:44 Daily Schedule and Sessions 15:30 Pitch Party and Closing Events

Episode 334: Special on Storybook Inkspiration-Overcoming Fear & Procrastination in Writing

This special episode is for those who are writers and illustrators or who want to become writers and illustrators. We will have our regular episode again at the beginning of June. Summary This episode explores the journey of Christian writers, addressing fears and procrastination that hinder writing, and promoting a transformative writing retreat in a castle in Oklahoma. Host Terrie Hellard-Brown shares insights on overcoming obstacles, the importance of faith, and how to turn writing dreams into reality. Key Topics Fear as a barrier to writing Procrastination and prioritization The spiritual calling of writing Details of the upcoming castle retreat in Oklahoma Strategies for overcoming writer's block and fear Takeaways Fear of judgment cripples many Christian writers, but faith can overcome it. Procrastination often stems from feeling overwhelmed; prioritizing writing is essential. Writing retreats provide clarity, community, and spiritual renewal. Getting started is the hardest part; write even if it's terrible at first. God's calling is bigger than our fears; stepping out in faith is crucial. Sound Bites "You're afraid they'll laugh at you." "Fear not, over 300 times in the Bible." "Write even if it's absolutely terrible." Chapters 00:00 Welcome to Sparking Everyday Discipleship 00:30 The Calling to Write and Share Stories 01:55 The Excitement of the Upcoming Retreat 03:20 Overcoming Fear in Writing 06:44 The Importance of Perspective in Writing 09:36 Confronting Procrastination 12:54 Embracing the Writing Process 13:59 The Retreat Experience and Writing Goals 15:23 Logistics and Final Thoughts on the Retreat

Episode 333: The Heart of Patience with Elisha Lee

Summary In this engaging conversation, Elisha Lee discusses her new children's book, 'Patricia Learns Patience,' exploring the challenges of writing for children and the deeper meanings of patience and love. She emphasizes the importance of understanding these concepts before teaching them to children, drawing from her Christian faith. The discussion also covers how parents and educators can use the book to foster meaningful conversations about faith and patience, as well as Elisha's work in counseling and her podcast that integrates mental health with Christian principles. Takeaways Writing for children requires deep self-reflection. Patience is about enjoying the journey, not rushing it. Roadblocks are part of the journey, not the end. Love is the catalyst for change in relationships. Children need to learn patience through relatable stories. Early intervention is crucial for children's development. Parents should be honest about their need for help. Integrating faith with mental health can provide hope. Teaching children about love and patience is essential. Elisha's journey as an author has transformed her personally. Sound Bites 00:00 "Jesus spoke in parables to explain things." 07:30 "We want to enjoy the journey, not rush it." 11:39 "You do not start where you stay." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Elisha Lee and Her New Book 02:55 The Challenge of Writing for Children 06:10 Understanding Patience and Long-Suffering 08:49 The Importance of the Journey 12:04 Patricia Learns Patience: A Christian Perspective 15:02 Using the Book for Teaching and Conversations 17:54 Elisha's Counseling Practice and Podcast

Episode 330: Celebrating Easter with Laura Sassi

Summary Join us as we explore how children's books about the resurrection can teach young children about faith, Jesus' resurrection, and how to introduce spiritual concepts in an age-appropriate way. Laura Sassi shares insights on faith development, storytelling, and practical tips for parents and educators. Sound Bites * "Use bright colors to symbolize the joy of Easter." * "Avoid graphic depictions to prevent scaring children." * "Children's faith development is a lifelong journey." Chapters 00:00Introduction to Laura Sassi's New Book 04:04Exploring the Themes of Resurrection in Children's Literature 06:33Navigating Difficult Conversations with Young Children 09:11The Role of Parents in Faith Development 11:44Personal Stories of Faith and Teaching 14:11The Importance of Prayer and Spiritual Growth 16:44Encouraging Early Exposure to the Gospel 19:22Conclusion and Call to Action 19:52Introduction and Engagement 20:14Encouragement and Empowerment for Discipleship Resources * Laura Sassi's Website [https://laurasassietales.com/] * Easter Activity Kit by Laura Sassi [https://laurasassietales.com/easter-activity-kit]

Episode 329: Blessings of God's Love with Glenys Nellist

Summary In this conversation, Glenys Nellist and Terrie Hellard-Brown discuss the significance of children's books that focus on blessings, love, and peace. They explore how these themes are woven into Glenys's book series, emphasizing the importance of positive reinforcement in children's lives. The discussion also touches on the creative process behind writing children's literature and the resources available for parents and educators to enhance the reading experience. Takeaways Children need to hear positive affirmations of love. Books can reinforce the idea that nothing can separate them from God's love. Illustrations play a crucial role in engaging children. Each book in the series has a unique theme and animal representation. Blessings can be personalized with a child's name. The power of words shapes children's self-perception. Blessings should be a lifelong practice, not just for children. Creativity in writing often leads to unexpected outcomes. Resources are available to support the themes of the books. The conversation highlights the importance of community in nurturing children. Sound Bites "Books are not just for children." "You are a blessing and I love you." "Our words have power." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Bedtime Blessings Series 05:22 Exploring God's Great Love 07:54 The Importance of Blessings in Children's Lives 10:45 Differentiating the Books in the Series 13:23 The Power of Words and Affirmations 16:03 The Role of Blessings Beyond Bedtime 18:47 Future of the Bedtime Blessings Series 21:39 Exploring Bedtime Blessings with Glenys Nellist