I’ve loved the idea of creating things from nothing since I was a young girl. Whether it’s writing, or playing music, or crafting, I love all things creative.
I grew up in a family of musicians. Oh, we weren’t famous, but just about everyone in my family played the piano and sang. We’d get together from time to time and spend the day playing and singing about God. At the time, I didn’t think much of it. Now, those memories are precious and ones I hope to pass on to my granddaughters. One is already learning to play the piano and I’ve had the privilege of helping her along. The middle granddaughter is showing interest in learning someday. As a grandmother I’m so proud.
When I was a pre-teen, I started writing after I devoured ever Phyllis Whitney and Victoria Holt book I could find at our local library. I gravitated towards romantic suspense for many years until I picked up my first Christian Suspense and knew that was what I wanted to write. I love the message of faith that weaves itself through each and every Christian story, creating a beautiful tapestry of emotion. In 2012 I entered a contest through Love Inspired Suspense and later received a contract. Now, I’m on my fourth book for Love Inspired. A dream come true.
When my first granddaughter came along, I fell in love with the idea of crafting. Taking a pile of “stuff” and creating something beautiful from it takes true talent, (I’m still trying to find my talent on this one). With three granddaughter, I discovered crafting is a great way to spend time with my girls and make some lovely memories that I hope someday they will pass along to their kids and grandkids. Especially at Christmas. We love making Christmas soft dough ornaments and decorations for the house.
This year while I was looking for some craft ideas to do with my girls, I came across a wooden sign with a simple saying on it, but the meaning struck a chord with me because its something that I want to weave through everything I create this year.
True Love Was Born In A Stable.
As a writer of Christian Romantic Suspense, I want this message to be the leading thread in all the stories I create this year. As a musician, well, it’s all about Him. And as a would be crafter, what better way to share God’s precious Gift than to tell my granddaughters about the True Love that was born in a stable.
So this year, I hope the True Love given to us so many years ago is in your heart and in your mind throughout the upcoming 2017. And I hope you create something beautiful with it.
All the best…
Mary Alford
Christians Read 