When You Need a Game Plan

Those are my men—Husband and our oldest. I snapped this photo one day while they were discussing football. I don’t understand the half of it, but I love hearing their sports commentary.

Husband plays the role of head coach in our house. He’ll clap his hands together and shout, “what’s your game plan?” I’m not much into sports, but I know when I need a game plan.

I’m writing a book.

There. I said it. And, as far as I can tell I’m still breathing.

Needless to say, I’m taking a huge leap of faith. The writing process is painstakingly slow and forces me so far outside of my comfort zone I know I won’t return home the same. (I think that’s the point!)

Last night I received an email from Janet Grant, my supportive and patient agent, who said, “Yes-s-s-s!”  I’ve written the first chapter FOUR times and finally got it. I use the term “got it” loosely. It’s far from final copy, but it is a beginning. A place to start.

I read Janet’s words a dozen times last night before falling asleep letting the reality slowly sink in. For the first time I truly believe this might happen. Oh, I have no idea if the book will ever get published. But, I do believe I will write my story. That, too, is a very good place to start.

The Turquoise Table Movement

I’m in awe of how God is growing community around the turquoise table. Not just mine, but in neighborhoods around the country. I’m overwhelmed by the interest of others and it brings me such joy to partner with individuals and churches as they start their own turquoise table communities. The world is hungry for community. The Turquoise Table is a place of belonging, where authentic relationships are nourished. Trust is built and laughter encouraged. After all, there is a Flower Fairy at play!

My prayer is to steward this gift well and follow God’s call to encourage others to gather and love in their own communities. I have an incredible team of wise and talented people who are helping me shape this new ministry. I am a visionary. Implementation? Not so much. I’m on a steep learning curve for sure.

Game plan

So, there’s a lot on my plate. New, exciting, and challenging things! I need a game plan and lots of prayer. I’m going to take a little break from blogging. Just until late-January. We are working behind the scenes to freshen up this website and I’m working daily on sharing The Turquoise Table with others in communities near and far. I need time to write more chapters and a book proposal. Most importantly I want to slow down and be present with my family during this holy time of year.

Favorite Christmas Recipes

I’ve scheduled posts from the archives to run during Christmas – the best of our family’s favorite holiday recipes! I begin my 10th year blogging this month so there were quite a few oldies-but-goodies to choose from. I hope you enjoy.

In the meantime, sign up to receive The Turquoise Table Community Newsletter. I will continue to send the newsletter out. I will also continue our conversations on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. We are using the hashtags #theturquoisetable and #gatherandlove

I am so grateful for each one of you. Thank you for sharing this journey with me.

Gather & love, friends!

Kristin