Fun News Shared Here First

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Can you guess what my news is?

I don’t want to raise expectations too high. For some of you, this might not seem all that exciting. Before I go too far, I should probably respond to all the guesses y’all made on Facebook.

No, I’m not a grandmother (unless my grand-dogs count, and they totally should!). Yes, I am going on a trip, but that’s not the fun news.

Violin lessons? Um, I’m tone deaf and musically challenged, though that won’t stop me from belting out praise songs when the mood hits. Earning a theology degree? That would be interesting. I’ve long fiddled with the idea of getting my master’s. But no, that’s not it. Leading my own ministry? Sort of, although Wholly Loved isn’t “mine” per say. Praise God we have an amazing team of nearly thirty talented and Christ-led individuals passionate about helping women experience freedom. But while that’s a praise, that’s not my news. 🙂

About a month ago, I decided we’d find a fun way to celebrate once I reached the ten book mark–the tenth traditionally published book. At the time, I had 8 traditionally published books (and others that I had published myself). I assumed my tenth contract would coincide with my 50th birthday, which I also planned to celebrate–preferably by going on a trip with family.

But then …

I received an email from my agent. My publisher offered me my first two book contract. This means I’ve hit the ten book mark! So that feels fun.

Celebrate with me?

Oh, and before I go, I should probably mention, LifeAudio.com dropped another Faith Over Fear Podcast episode. This one was on one of my favorite topics, or at least, one I’m coming to believe is of utmost importance in so many areas: Having the Courage to Set Boundaries. You can listen here:

Break Free from Shame: Carol McCracken’s Story of Freedom and Restoration Faith Over Fear

What happens when a respected Bible teacher’s hidden struggle finally comes to light? In this special feed drop episode from Love Life Sober, Carol McCracken shares the deeply personal story behind a season she hid for years: increasing dependence on alcohol while navigating parenting stress, marital strain, shame, and emotional exhaustion. From the outside, Carol appeared to have everything together. Inside, she was unraveling. After an arrest forced her secret into the open, Carol found herself confronting painful truths about control, identity, fear, and the parts of her heart she had never fully surrendered to God. What followed became a story of grace, healing, freedom from alcohol, and an unexpected journey of restoration. Whether or not alcohol has been part of your story, this conversation speaks to anyone who has: hidden struggles behind a polished image felt trapped by shame feared being “found out” tried to manage pain through unhealthy coping mechanisms wondered if God could still redeem what feels broken In this episode, Carol and Christy discuss: the emotional roots beneath destructive coping patterns the shame many Christians carry in silence surrendering control to God how healing often begins with honesty why freedom rarely happens overnight the difference between knowing truth in your head and believing it in your heart God’s ability to restore what once seemed beyond repair Connect with Christy Osborne: On the Love Life Sober Podcast On her website On Instagram Connect with Carol McCracken: On her website  On Facebook On Instagram Scripture Referenced Romans 8:38–39 Luke 10:38–42 Lamentations 3:22–23 If This Episode Encouraged You Share this episode with a friend, leave a review, and subscribe to Faith Over Fear for more conversations that help you move from fear and striving toward freedom and deeper trust in Christ. For additional support, download this free resource: Freedom from numbing: Breaking Alcohol’s grip Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
  1. Break Free from Shame: Carol McCracken’s Story of Freedom and Restoration
  2. Feeling Left Out? Christ Seats You at the Table of Honor
  3. When Your Loved One is an Alcoholic or Addict
  4. Faith in the Fire: When You Feel Betrayed by God
  5. Fighting for Your Heart When Suffering Pulls You Toward Despair

Is there a fear related topic you wish I’d cover? If so, let me know!

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