Open Spaces
Open Spaces April 2024
Vol.: 24.4
By John W. Vander Velden
April 28, 2024
The month has rushed by but not without its unique flavor. Though I have done my best to keep it under wraps, perhaps I should share the fact I had a bit of surgery on the 9th. I am presently recovering from that event and it has rearranged the scheduling of our household. Between physical therapy, exercises, and just getting around, days fill up quickly. But I am getting stronger and I feel the worst is over.
So I have witnessed the spring with its changes mostly through glass. Which is alright though I would prefer to be wandering out-of-doors with my camera near. Yet spring has arrived without my input all the same, and new green, as my mother once described it, surrounds our home. I will continue to enjoy this season’s change even with a unique perspective of my present limitations.
It is my hope that the month has been good to you and yours. That you too find ways to celebrate the rebirth of the trees, shrubs, and flowers of another year. That life has been and will continue to be good to you, that your hardships be few and your victories grand.
Enjoy the spring, it is a gift.
For a bit of writing news:
Pain meds have made the keyboard pretty much off limits. Even putting together this newsletter is a struggle(pardon the typos etc.). But there has been some progress for When Light Comes Unexpected the fourth book of the Misty Creek Series. The Beta copies have been printed, assembled, and most have been distributed to my faithful volunteers. The manuscript has been scheduled for its second editorial review. So as I had said things are moving, though a bit more slowly.
I’ll keep you informed about those phases in the coming months.
Now for a few final words:
During these three weeks since my surgery, I am reminded of the amazing capabilities of my body. The ability to heal. The ability to stand upright and move about, even gingerly. The ability to do the exercises needed for my recovery. And so many other things this amazing body God has loaned me has been doing whether I noticed or not.
So I thank God for the chance that overworn portions of my body can be replaced so that I am able to return to the active life I have always enjoyed. I thank God for the kind and caring individuals that cared for me when I was unable to do so. I thank God for a beloved devoted wife that has worked tirelessly so I am able to recover at home.
I am certainly blessed.
It is my hope that you too recognize the blessings in your life as well.
Until next time, friends,
John
Open Spaces March 2024
Vol.: 24.3
By John W. Vander Velden
March 30, 2024
Friends,
How could we be finishing the year’s third month? It means we have completed a full quarter of 2024, which seems impossible. But it is no wonder the days rush passed us, for Jackie and I have been dealing with so many things this year.
More on that later.
But winter is now behind us, and I expect everyone is pleased, for spring brings promise. The unusual warmth these last weeks have sent nature moving earlier than normal. Our tulips are not only up, but the buds are visible. I see the neighbor’s daffodils are in full bloom, and I am certain crocuses are blooming as well. I see the tree buds are swelling, and new green showing up in the woods across our road. There’s no doubt about it, but spring has arrived.
It is our hope that the season brings you all the brightness and color it can, that spring will be a time of renewal for you and those you love.
For a bit of writing news:
I ended February with a wonderful opportunity. I was invited to speak with a book club in Starke County Indiana on the 29th. I enjoy meeting with book lovers and especially those that have read one of my books. Answering their questions about the inspiration of my story, about characters. and plot development were among the wide variety of subjects brought up that evening. Those questions opened lines of discussion that could have run far longer than the allotted time. Perhaps you know of a book club that might consider one of my books and like me to visit with them. I remain open to the possibility.
Saturday March 23rd, I attended my first Author’s Fair of the year. BookCon 2024 was held in South Bend, Indiana. There were 30 authors in attendance, Saturday, and over 300 visitors came to chat with local Authors of all kinds of genres. I had the opportunity to speak with several interesting people. It was a good time.
I have nearly finished the first editorial revision of When Light Comes Unexpected the fourth book of the Misty Creek Series. I hope to begin printing off Beta Copies next week. I’ll be sending out messages to my Beta Readers soon, so folks get ready.
There’s still a great deal of work remaining for this project, but it feels GREAT to finish each step along the way.
Now for a few words in closing:
Tomorrow it will be Easter, my friends. In our house Easter is a really big deal, and not because of some bunny or colored eggs. For those of us of faith, Easter is the grand celebration of Christ’s resurrection and his defeat of death’s power over us. Easter is the absolute proof of God’s love and how far God is willing to go for us. For he was willing to sacrifice His Son in order to save the human race. The significance of that action is something I cannot ignore and often drives me to tears. Yes, Easter is important to Jackie and me.
It is my hope that Sunday will be special to you and yours as well.
Blessings,
John
Open Spaces February 2024
Vol.: 24.2
February 24, 2024
By John W. Vander Velden
Hello friends,
February’s weather has been easy to live with in Northern Indiana. A bit of snow fell from time to time, like it did last night, but hasn’t hampered our getting out and about. Certain areas of the country have not so fortunate. Storms in the Southeast and a great deal of rain has hammered California. This should remind us of two things: 1. To be thankful, for even fair weather is a blessing. And 2. We should always feel for the suffering of others. The willingness to care, does not come naturally, it is something each of us must learn and nurture. So even the weather offers us a way to understand our connection to others.
For though it might not seem obvious, each of us are linked to everyone else.
But on a lighter note, when I stepped out this morning and found myself surrounded by trees and bushes dressed in the fresh white glory, and I grabbed my camera. Though I knew my photographs would be unable to capture the fullness of the morning, it did not stop the attempt. That is another point I want to make today. I will never pretend to be a world class photographer, but I work at it. I will never be an award-winning author, but each day I work at assembling words into stories.
Few believe that they are the greatest, but it did not stop them from the endeavor. Knowing themselves and their abilities, does not prevent them from striving to improve. Pushing themselves to learn, to grow, to expand their abilities. Accomplishments are rarely easy. Most demand sacrifice and hard work.
So that leads me into writing news:
I am excited to say that the first Editorial Revision is going very well. I have only 60 or so pages remaining to work on until I complete the first pass. I will go over the manuscript another time before I feel this 1st revision has been completed. So those of you that have been so helpful as BETA readers, it should be only a couple of months before you get the first peek at When Light Comes Unexpected the fourth book of the Misty Creek Series.
This will be an important step completed, but it is but a single step on the staircase for the creation of this book. But friends I am nearing the top third of that climb. Yes, I would wish to race to the top, but time is required to make this book the polished story you deserve. In these future newsletters I will keep you informed of my progress. So, for now I must ask you for your patience.
Now for a few final words:
Each person born has a place to fill. Sometimes we forget the importance of that statement. It is easy to rank individuals in their significance. But over time I have changed my perspective about who ranks and who doesn’t.
For we all are created by God, and God don’t make no junk.
On days when you think that your life doesn’t count…that you are no more than a trivial speck, rest assured you are not. For God not only knows of your existence, but loves you, and has placed you here in the place you find yourself for this exact moment.
Blessings,
John
Open Spaces January 2024
Vol.: 24.1
January 24, 2024
Dear friends,
As I sit at the keyboard, I am thinking of the month nearly finished. In truth I have become soft enough that I find sub-zero temperatures detrimental. I remember when I had faced a full-blown blizzard with cattle to feed. Fact is most of the feeding equipment was not up to the task and that didn’t make my job pleasant. But the situation was to be expected, for winters were hard, and the task needed to be done no matter the weather.
Looking back, I know I am not nearly as tough as I used to be, but that’s alright. There is a time for everything, and fortunately for me, those obligations are no longer my responsibility. But I admire all those that work in difficult environments, whether it roofing in summer’s heat, or fighting fires during the coldest of days. Those that pick up the gauntlet and do the job under difficult circumstances deserve more respect than they usually receive.
All the same, I hope this note finds you safe and comfortable. For Jackie and I are warm in our home and looking forward to a change in the season. Yet even the cold of winter cannot hide the season’s beauty. The wind-sculptured snow drift, the tree branches graced with snow’s frosting, and the blazing sky at the day’s ending are like no other time of the year.
I try, though not always successfully, to find the grandness of each season. For what would the wonder of spring’s new green be without winter’s cold breath. Or Autumn’s crispness and vivid colors without the blazing days of summer. There is a grandness in each day, if we only take the time to see. So, take the time.
Now for a bit of writing news:
I continue to push through the revising process of When Light Comes Unexpected, the fourth book of the Misty Creek Series. Revisions is but one of the steps needed to create a story worthy of my readers. End of year paperwork has reduced this month’s advance, but rest assured progress continues. I am setting up Author’s Events for 2024. The first will be February 29th at the Stark County Public Library, Knox, Indiana. I am excited to have been invited to speak with a book club there. I so enjoy talking to book clubs, they are, after all readers, and I love readers. If you are a member of a book club and are considering a book, I would be humbled if your group might consider one of mine. And even if your club doesn’t, but would like to hear about my writing and publishing experience, I would be pleased to come as a guest.
Also, I wish to express my gratitude to all the readers that have taken some of their valuable time to have read any of my books. From time to time, I hear from you, dear friends, when you reach out with the kindest words about my stories. I, like all writers, appreciate those words beyond measure, and so I thank you for graciousness.
Let me close with these words:
There are times we do not realize the effect we have on those around us. Our actions, our words, and sometimes even our thoughts can make a profound difference. Everyone has had moments when loss of control, allowed us to act in ways we come to regret. It is a part of being human. But it doesn’t mean we should continue those acts. Let us, each one of us, place a higher emphasis on kindness. To be kind is an act of generosity that costs us little. To be open and fair in our dealings, to truly hear and once we do hear, to care deeper. So please, be kind, for kindness is never wasted, and can change the world.
Blessings,
John
Open Spaces December 2023
By John W. Vander Velden
Vol.: 23.12
December 29, 2023
Once again, my friends, I offer my greetings,
There are only a bit more than two days remaining in 2023. What a year it has been. I scratch my head at how swiftly this year has moved. But if I take the time to consider all that has happened to our household, then yes, I begin to accept that though 2023 was like none other, it was a good year.
It is my sincere hope that 2023 was kind to you and yours, that you were able to create fond memories. That you look forward to all the possibilities that the new year will bring.
Thus far winter has been gentle on us in northern Indiana, but January tends to be the coldest month of the year. But I have seen more than seventy Januarys, so I look forward to the lengthening days as winter progresses. Hopefully the remaining winter will not be too harsh for you. But, I think, we all look forward to spring, but perhaps we, like the hardwood trees, could do with a bit of extra rest during these cold months. To revitalize ourselves for the year ahead.
So, my friends, gather with your loved ones over a meal or a steaming mug. Laugh and love, those are among the greatest gifts we are given. Count your blessings, be grateful for your life, and seek out your purpose. For each of us has been allotted a place in this world, and it is up to us to find the reason we walk on the green side of the sod. Once you have determined what your purpose is, at this stage of your life, do not be surprised that you have the talents necessary to fill that purpose. For the world needs you!
Now for a little writing news:
I have been working on the first editorial revision of When Light Comes Unexpected, which is the fourth book of the Misty Creek Series. I have always found revising a draft the most difficult part of creating a story worthy of you, my readers. The task this time is no easier than the others. I labor, page by page, working under the guidance of my editor and friend, Kristina. To date I have reached the halfway point of the first pass. As you can tell I’m behind schedule, but that is nothing new. I ask for your patience.
I have no Author’s Events planned for January, which should give me more time to trudge onward on this book.
I will close with these few words:
Christmas day is less than a week behind us, let us not forget the significance of that day, the reason we celebrate December 25th. For we recognize that God sent his Son to be born. That act and all of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, are the truest proof of the depth of God’s love for you and me. As we look forward to what lies ahead, know that the love that God has given never abandons. Remember in a world of turmoil, love is far more powerful than hate, just as darkness can never overcome light. For even the faintest flicker pierces the deepest darkness.
My friends, be a light in this dark world.
Blessings,
John
November Open Spaces
Vol.: 23.11
By John W. Vander Velden
November 20, 2023
Dear friends,
First off. I must apologize for not providing a newsletter last month. I was under the weather as October wound down and set the task aside, and by the time my strength and motivation rose sufficiently, it was November. In any case my second bout with COVID is now behind me…mostly, and I find myself at the keyboard thinking about you. So today I assemble a few words about a recent adventure Jackie and I shared in October.
We set our sights on the trails of Turkey Run and Shades State parks. Leaving on the 18th we arrived at Turkey Run on a bright and sunny Wednesday afternoon. Jackie and I have always felt trail 3 the most challenging, and so it was that trail we boldly challenged. With our hiking poles and in our boots, observers would know it was not our first rodeo. As we wandered through the canyons, up and down stairs and trails, I captured many images of the valleys and cliffs of the park.
But the weather on Thursday was not favorable for the hiking part of our adventure to continue, so we looked for other entertainment. It so happened that Park County had their annual Covered Bridge Festival that week. So, donning our rain gear we entered the fray of the thousands that gathered in the 10 locations for that event. Not that we went to all 10, 3 was quite sufficient to get a feel of the festival, a festival that locals take extremely seriously.
The following day we headed south stopping at one of our favorite places, Cataract Falls, and then off to Nashville, Indiana, in Brown County. The light misty day couldn’t dampen our spirits and two stops made for a delightful time.
Friday broke clear and bright, and Brown County State Park was that day’s adventure. The actual park was a place we had not entered before. Several times we had skirted the park itself as we enjoyed the scenery of Brown County, Indiana, so we were excited to see the park itself. The leaves showed color but had not yet reached their peak. We were not the only folks that chose that particular day to visit that particular park. Fortunately, we arrived early and saw some of the amazing wonders, such as the mist on Ogle Lake and some of the grand vistas from the hill tops. Jackie and I were even so bold as to climb the 90-foot fire tower. Later we took another hike through the woods and down into a valley at the edge of Ogle Lake. It made for a day neither Jackie or I will ever forget.
But alas, somewhere I picked up the adversary that made me ill less than 18 hours after our return. But as I mentioned at the opening of this letter, I have overcome the disease…once more, and hope never to meet that enemy again.
Now for a bit of writing news:
It has been a busy two months for this guy. An Author’s Event in early October at the Walkerton Public Library finished three Saturdays in a row of events. Then I made a two-day appearance at the La D’zert’s Café’s Christmas Open House and a fun meeting with the Argos (Indiana) Page Turners in mid-November. I especially enjoy meeting with book clubs, and those folks were indeed a delight.
As my writing goes, I am working on the first editorial revision of When Light Comes Unexpected. I am sorry to say I have been put behind on that project, but I have managed to reach quarter way through this revision. Much work lies ahead of me, but I am determined. And determination provides motivation, and motivation makes the task possible. I have no idea of when you will see this finished project, but rest assured when you do, it will be the best I can do. For my readers deserve the best I can give them.
It seems I’ve run long so I will only add these words:
Life has its challenges, and among them is our health. So, my friends take care of yourselves. It is my hope and prayer that you are able to avoid this illness I have once again defeated. But like all of life’s challenges we face, remember we do not face them alone. For we have friends, and family, but most of all, the God that loves us. And with their help and God’s aid we face each day’s difficulties. It is in that knowledge we can be confident to do more than endure whatever we must face.
With God’s blessing and Christ’s love,
John
Open Spaces
Vol.: 23.9
September 27, 2023
By John W. Vander Velden
Even though September has gone by in a rush, there was time for some exciting experiences. I am reminded that, no matter how busy we are, we should take time to help out if the opportunity arises.
Such was the case when I received an E-mail from Pebbles Wireman. Would I participate in a fundraiser, she asked? I had never heard of the Mooky Project, so before I agreed, I asked for some information. The organization raises funds for the emotional support of ill children…many times, very ill children. This seemed something I could get behind, and so I did.
I am not certain what drove Pebbles to reach out, but I do believe it was more than random. I believe that by that gesture; I was among those that gained from the experience. The part I played was miniscule, but the effect it had upon me seeing those children that have suffered so much and some that continue to endure the ravages of cancer and other terrible diseases, has touched me in ways nothing else could.
Perhaps you have had a similar experience. Have you been exposed to something that touched your heart? And does that experience not make us richer. I know that caring about others, though the price of empathy can be high, has enriched me time and again.
Too easily we become so self-absorbed we do not notice the world around us. Too easily we feel that the we are powerless to help. But I hope to be a bit of light in the darkness. For no matter how dark the world seems, I know that the dark never makes even my small light less bright, but even a flicker makes the dark less dark.
Be a light.
For a bit of writing news:
I have been hustling about preparing for a few Author’s Events. I did a reading at the Summer’s End Festival ’23 last weekend in Plymouth, Indiana. This coming Saturday, the 30th, I and will be participating in the Beyond the Book Festival, an Author’s Fair hosted by the Main Branch of the Starke County Public Library, in Knox, Indiana. Then the following Saturday October 7th I will have an Author’s Event, hosted by the Walkerton Lincoln Township Public Library. That one will be held in Walkerton, Indiana. Perhaps I will see you there.
News from the keyboard:
Having finished thirteen chapters in the first draft of Matthew Remembers which will be the fifth book of the series, I have set that work aside for now. Time demands that I attack the editorial revision of When Light Comes Unexpected the fourth book of the Misty Creek Series. I have only begun to get a bite out of that project, just a nibble, but it is a beginning. I’ll keep you informed of how that is proceeding in the coming months.
So, a few words in closing:
Each of us need to consider where we are. Not geographically but emotionally, spiritually, and in our relationships with others. Just where we are, and why we are where we are. Honestly looking within ourselves is rarely easy. And not always pleasant but necessary at times. It helps us get a better focus on who we are, and more importantly…whose we are. For the God that is Master of the Universe loves you and considers you, His child. That is something each of forget during the busy part of our lives. But remembered or not…it is true.
Blessings,
John
Open Spaces
Vol.: 23.8
August 24, 2023
By John W. Vander Velden
As August draws to its conclusion, I realized that two-thirds of the year is behind us. How could that be? It seems that the snow only disappeared a couple of weeks ago. I know, I know, the weather has been un-snowlike for longer than that. But can it be that we have made it through eight months, and most of the summer is in our wake. I will admit the summer has played out differently than I had expected. Though the months have been an adventure, they have not included the escapades I had anticipated. But life does that, doesn’t it, and if we are open to the possibilities that unfold each day, then we are able to grasp whatever life has to offer.
It is my hope that you too have had special moments and opportunities these months. That when looking back at the month behind, you have some fond memories of these August days, and the summer as well.
Perhaps a bit of writing news:
I mentioned in last month’s Open Spaces, I took part of my first outdoor festival. Well, I found the Plymouth, Indiana’s, Arts in the Street Festival a very rewarding experience. I believe the time opened me to other possibilities. An article in today’s local paper is just one example of the growth of connections that those hours nurtured. My writing obligations in September has suddenly grown. The next thing will be another outdoor festival, Summer’s End Festival ’23, which comes quite suitably on afternoon and evening of September 23rd. That festival will also in Plymouth, Indiana. Then the following Saturday, September 30th, I will be participating in Beyond the Book, Author’s Fair which will be held at the Starke County Public Library, in Knox, Indiana.
In early October, I will hold an author’s event at the Walkerton Indiana Public Library. That one is scheduled for Saturday October 7th. That makes three Saturdays in a row. I am excited about these events, but I might need some time to recover from them. If you are in the area, stop by and say hi.
Now about the work:
The fourth book of the Misty Creek Series has gone to my editor. I am anxious to know what Kristina thinks of this manuscript and the quantity of work that the project yet will demand. When it comes back, I expect the hard work to begin. I will keep you posted on the progress of When Light Comes Unexpected. The last few weeks I have jumped into the first draft of book five of the series, tentatively titled, Matthew Remembers. I am excited to begin this volume, which I foresee as the closing book of the series.
You can see, I have no time for boredom.
Now for just a few words in closing:
Our days might be easy or hard. Our days might be filled with joys or disappointment, but we should remember that each and every one is in its way a gift. Though there are times, when we face our darkest, that those days seem to hold any light at all, yet as we endure…we grow. And in that growth, we can become something greater than we were before. For no matter whether we consider a time good or bad, never forget, you do not go alone. For God, the Master and Creator of the Universe, is nearer than your next breath. And even when you feel most alone…you are not. For the God that loves you, will never abandon. May you feel God’s presence in your everyday.
And may God bless you now and always,
John
Open Spaces
Vol.: 23.7
By John W. Vander Velden
7-25-2023
I guess most people will remember the summer of 2023. For one thing it’s been hot. Some areas of our country it has been very hot. I can understand hot, and am grateful that my years of making hay are in the past. It is always hot when you make hay, the sun beating down on you as you work in the open field. Worse yet was mow work. If you have spent any time in a hay mow you know what I mean. I have and I am thankful that job is no longer, in my list of obligations.
I don’t complain about the heat, sitting here in my airconditioned office. But I feel for those that must labor under the sun, roofers, and blacktop pavers are on that list as are others. Hot is hot and it can be unhealthy.
I hope you are enduring the weather. As they say, you can’t change it, you just have to get through. Getting through doesn’t seem like the victory it is, but trust me, it is.
We were hoping to take an old-fashion road trip in late July, but our wonder dog is not well, so we stayed around home. Looking for adventures nearby, and so we venture around northern Indiana. In truth there’s quite a bit to see in our backyard, and perhaps Cloey our wonder dog, will rebound and we can venture further.
Now for a bit of writing news:
I have visited some libraries recently, promoting With the Sun’s Rising. The book is showing up in some of their catalogs, so if you’re interested, ask at yours. I have secured a booth at Plymouth, Indiana Arts in the Street, this weekend, July 29th. (It may be over before you read this.) I’ve never done an outdoor event before, so we’ll see how it turns out. Truth is, I don’t expect to sell many books, but it is about exposure, meeting people and introducing them to my writing. The festival is free, and if you are in the area stop by.
I’m hoping to have two events in September, I’ll let you know.
So let me close with this:
At times it might not be easy, but we can choose the attitude we carry through the day. During difficult times it might be impossible to remain positive, but we should try. I know, I know, it isn’t possible to be up all the time, but in a world where negativity runs rampant. it helps not to be a continuous part of that problem.
Truth is, how our day turns out is many times bound to the attitude we bring to it. Someone says to me, “have a good day,” and my response is, “I’m sure gonna try.”
In closing, friends remember we walk this world together. God made you, God made me, and there’s a reason God did. Find that reason and let it become part of your purpose.
Blessings,
John
Open Spaces
Vol.: 23.6
By John W. Vander Velden
6-23-2023
Hello Friends,
Jackie and I have just returned from a few days away. We suddenly realized, a couple of weeks ago, that the summer was slipping away from us, so we headed north on Tuesday. We love the Third Coast (Lake Michigan’s East Shore) and had visited towns along the lake’s edge before. Normally they were day trips to St. Joseph, South Haven, and Saugatuck. But things became more complicated after COVID hit, so it had been a while. So instead, we stayed in Holland, MI, for a few days while we hit sites we had longed to see again, some of which have changed in our absence.
Though it was hot, the breeze off the water kept it reasonable. The wildfire smoke gave a varying haze from day to day, with Wednesday being the worst. Yet the sunshine and clear skies made our time along the coast magnificent.
It is good to get away…but it is good to come home too.
I hope that you find ways to make this summer special as well.
For a bit of writing news:
Last month I began the 1st revision of When Light Comes Unexpected the fourth book of the Misty Creek Series. I have made great progress on this pass, and I am about three quarters through the manuscript. When I began this revision, I was concerned, because it is written in a different style of storytelling than the first three books, but I believe it works for this story. I hope, when it gets published someday, you will be pleased with the form of writing as well.
I haven’t been on top of my promotion game these last couple of months. Oh, I have run a facebook ad, but haven’t hit the concrete and made my presence known, outside those that knew me. Perhaps in the next few weeks I will reach out to neighboring communities―perhaps.
We will see.
Let me close with just a few more words.
There is so much hate in this world. Bitter words of anger fly about us, from every direction. Isn’t it best, if we do not feed the volume of cruel words and deeds? Surely our Savior expects better of us than pointed fingers and accusations. Though it is difficult, it is for us to do our best, to try to see things through a broader lens. To open our hearts to others, rather than stomp them into the dust.
Love is never wasted, but often hoarded.
Share the love God has given you when you can and in new ways.
Blessings,
John
Open Spaces
Vol. 23.5
By John W. Vander Velden
5-26-2023
Hello friends,
If there had been any doubt that spring had arrived, these warm days of May should have put those concerns aside. For me this is my absolute favorite time of the year. Everything in nature is fresh and alive. If there is a single downside to this portion of spring it would be in remembering my mom.
You see it was her favorite time as well. Nel Vander Velden would use the term, new green, in her later years to describe the spectrum of colors of the season’s first growth. That was the title of a blog post I wrote some years ago. It is a term I use when looking over the fresh foliage of new growth each year since her passing.
So today I’m led to thinking about all those I have known, and what they have taught me. In truth, they taught me all the important stuff. My parents, the Aunt and Uncle I was blessed to know, people from my church, and family friends that would come to the farm house and fill the space with loud voices and laughter.
Vander Veldens are not a quiet lot. You can ask anybody.
Each of these folks added something important to the man I, at last, became.
I know I am fortunate.
I hope you too have been blessed by those around you as well.
And speaking of blessings, Jackie and I had the wonderful opportunity to hit the road and visit a pocket of God’s wonders, Hocking Hills State Park, Logan, Ohio. While we prepared for this get away, my beloved studied the weather forecast. “It’s going to rain the whole time we are there,” she told me.
My response was, “Dear it won’t rain the entire time we are there.”
It was one of the few occasions I was correct. It did not rain the entire time we were at the park. It only rained most of the time we were at the park.
There are benefits to the drizzle that filled many hours of our adventure. The dampness accentuated the greens and brought out the colors of the canyon walls, it fed the streams and added to the dramatic waterfalls, it reduced the foot traffic along the hiking trails Yes, the rainy weather had its advantages.
But the near constant drizzle provided difficulties as well. Care was required at each step. Though the stairs cut in native rock became slippery, muddy pathways and thousands of exposed roots offered some our greatest challenges. I will leave it to Jackie to tell you about the Conkle Ridge Trail, and the difficulties we faced during those three hours.
All this made our visit to that park an adventure we will remember all our lives.
So, what about my writing:
Last week I jumped in to the revising of When Light Comes Unexpected, with both feet. This is the first step of taking a really rough draft and buffing out a bit of the rawness. Being spring and as well as the summer to come, I have several things to do besides writing, I’m not certain how long this pass will take. I’ll let you know as I progress.
The collection of shorter fictions has been put on hold for the time being, as I must focus on the main project for the next several months.
One last point: I will be participating in an Author’s Fair, Saturday June 3rd, at the Marshall County Public Library in Plymouth, Indiana. If you are in the area from 10:00 AM till 12:30 EDT, please stop by and say hello. It promises to be a fun time, so consider it.
That brings you up to speed.
I will close with a few words more:
There seems to be so much anger in society today. People raging at one another over this or that. Sometimes that rage turns into violence. Though we might not understand the root cause of all this anger, it is up to us, not to be part of this hate cycle. It seems to me that too seldom we consider how things appear to those who sit across the table from us. Yes, we each are unique individuals, we have differences. But let us not forget about all the things we share in common.
God loves you; God loves me. God loves the person that is screaming at you too. Each of us are God’s children. That makes us family…shouldn’t we try to get along.
Maybe a bit of understanding and a whole lot of patience would help our own little corner of the world. Maybe that effect would be contagious.
I pray that kindness spreads.
Blessings,
John
Open Spaces
Vol.: 23.4
By John W. Vander Velden
April 22, 2023
Hello friends,
Can it be that I am a little ahead of the game this month. Fact is I will be away from the keyboard for a few days and I have pushed myself to deal with the things that need my attention, especially this short letter to my friends.
That is how I think of you…as friends.
Some among you, are long known acquaintances, even as far back as my childhood. There are some I have met only a few times, and some I may not have met at all…yet. And still, I consider each of you a friend. Perhaps that is the biggest surprise publishing my books has given. For it has opened me up in ways as nothing else in my life has.
I think of a phrase at times like these, books open doors to new adventures. I can speak of that truth from my own experiences. I feel I have been forced out of what had been my life’s shell, to a broader set of events.
Perhaps it began with my first book signing in early 2018. But even the weeks before that, I had walked the sidewalks of downtown Plymouth, Indiana trying to figure out a way to promote Misty Creek was a new to me. On that particular day, I met two wonderful ladies as I strode into their bakery and café. Now I consider them among my dearest friends and have come to love them as family.
Maybe that is the point of this month’s newsletter.
Friends, life is meant to be lived. And sometimes living it sends us in directions we had not predicted. If that happens, we are left with two choices: one, retreat back into what seems a comfortable norm, two, embrace the change and charge forward into areas unknown.
Each of us, one time or another, have come to that fork in our life’s pathway.
It is not my place to make that choice for others, but when I look back and see the choices I have made in those circumstances, I realize that too often I have retreated. But on this particular occasion, in regards to my book that is, the benefits of my bold steps forward, have rewarded me in ways I had never foreseen.
I have been introduced to new experiences and people as well. And among those new people, I have made friends. Some are in my local writer’s group, some are from area libraries, some are shopkeepers, some are just readers of books, who share my love of stories.
And among my friends are you.
For you have helped add a richness to my life, and I hope that each of you know how much I appreciate your contribution.
Let me jump into my writing news:
Perhaps you remember that in mid-January I finished the draft of When Light Comes Unexpected, the fourth book of the Misty Creek Series. And as is my habit, I have set that project aside for a time. I expect to jump back into that project next month. The revise ahead will be more like a rewrite of that story, and I hope the time I stayed away from it will allow me to see the text with fresh eyes.
During these last months, I have worked on another project. With the help of an editor friend, Mark Aikins, I am assembling a collection of shorter fictions that were written some years ago. Since last summer, Mark has diligently poured over the thirteen stories of varying length. I am excited that these tales will soon come to light, in a book titled, Stories of Life…Love…and Loss with the subtitle and a little Laughter too.
The project will not be finished when I set it aside to return to When Light Comes Unexpected, but it should be nearly completed. I am hoping for a publication of that collection sometime in 2024, but I make no promises.
As for my main project, the fourth book of the Misty Creek Series, I foresee at least three years’ worth of sweat and tears will be needed to complete When Light Comes Unexpected.
So let me close with these few words:
Spring is a time for renewal. All around us nature is reawakening. Perhaps it is a time when we should awaken to the world around us in new ways as well. For God loves you and has placed you, with his gentle hands, where you are. Take a moment to consider what that means, and how your life affects others. Find ways to make that effect positive.
Blessings my friends,
John
Open Spaces
Open Spaces
Vol.: 23.3
By John W. Vander Velden
March 24, 2023
Hello friends,
I find myself amazed that we near the end of another month, and with the close of March, the first quarter of 2023 will be completed. Whoosh, that is how this year feels. It seemed that Christmas was just last week, but the calendar does not lie. But March was the month I had waited for since November, when I set the release date of With the Sun’s Rising. So, you can understand my excitement at the month’s beginning.
The fine folks at La D’zert Café really provided a wonderful space for the launch party, and all of us that were there, enjoyed ourselves. If you are ever in Plymouth, Indiana, you should check out the establishment.
Jackie and I have been kept extra busy this month as we have sorted and handled so many things that are tied to precious memories. I won’t go into the details; it is enough to say we have stumbled on really old photographs and other items from our past. The task is not complete, but moves to another stage that will require less haste, which is good for we both need a break from this project.
But it has been an easy winter, weather wise, and it is now supposed to be spring. So, what’s with the word snow in the forecast? Here in Northern Indiana snow can come as late as the first week of May, so in truth, I’m not surprised by the talk of snow tomorrow. However, the days are definitely longer and the sun is noticeably stronger, so winter’s surrender is certain.
Now for some writing news:
My time at the keyboard has been limited these past weeks, and I have not accomplished much lately. Today while I type these words, I understand that things must change, in that regard, and they will. I will return to the collection of shorter pieces next month. Won’t finish that project by May 1st, but that is the date I have set to begin the first revision of When Light Comes Unexpected, the fourth book of the Misty Creek Series. If things go well, I will have that revision completed by Christmas, but friends it is just the first revision. I have no idea how many years that project will require, but my readers have a high standard and I will work as long as it takes to create a book worthy of their time.
I found a surprise in my E-mail Sunday afternoon, an invitation to BookCon 2023. I feel fortunate whenever I receive an invitation to an Author’s Fair, and am excited about this opportunity…tomorrow. That’s right friends I had less than a week to prepare for the largest Author’s Fair in the area. Fortunately, I have participated it a few before, so I understood what I most likely needed, so throwing things together was not a major problem. The St. Joseph County Public Library’s Main Branch Downtown South Bend, Indiana, is an impressive structure, and it offers me the opportunity to make some new connections.
That covers my most recent news on the writing front, so I will close with just a few words.
It is easy to understand how a parent loves their children. Why then is it difficult to comprehend how the Master and Ruler of the Universe can love us, for we are God’s children. So, I leave you with this thought. Love is the greatest force there is, and God loves you.
Blessings as you begin another month.
John
If you wanted the link to my 1st Virtual Author’s Event here it is….
