When I started speaking regularly more than a decade ago, I only had one criterion for saying “yes” to a speaking engagement:  an invitation. I was so thrilled to be wanted that my knee-jerk response to every request was an automatic, over-eager, “Yes!” My first official speaking season calendar boasted 30 engagements and added 4,500 miles on my trusty Murano, all while I was still teaching full-time. And while I felt honored to share the message God had placed on my heart and loved my … [Read more...]

Big events used to sound so glamorous. I imagined how much fun it would be… …speaking to hundreds of audience members. …setting up a beautiful booth in the exhibit hall. …selling and autographing books. …snapping selfies with adoring fans. Then came MOMcon 2017, where my dream came true. Kathi, Roger, and I flew to Kansas City where the most amazing volunteers* helped us set up a gorgeous booth in the exhibit all, complete with stunning banners and posters (thank you, Harvest … [Read more...]

Let’s pretend: It’s 30 minutes before bedtime, and you’re winding down for the night. Suddenly, the phone rings. Who could possibly be calling this late? You wonder as you answer. “I am so sorry to be calling you at the last minute like this,” says a voice trying (unsuccessfully) to hide full-blown panic. “But our speaker for tomorrow’s event just cancelled due to a family emergency.” You know where this is call is going. “Is there any chance you could fill in?” How to Be … [Read more...]