We’re entering our super busy season with a graduation and wedding in the works, so I thought I’d share a snippet of what’s going on with our family. My hope is that as you read this update, you see God’s goodness and that He is just as present for you!

Our Daughter: She graduates in June and is enjoying those senior “lasts.” One that really blessed us was she was chosen as one of twenty some students across our county for a scholarship based on academics and character. As I watched her name called and she was asked to accept her award and announce her plans, I thought about the team of professionals who sat me down when she was six months old. Because she had congenital hypothyroidism, she was behind in speech, and that triggered Early Intervention.

She also had several illnesses that set her back, including near death from doctor error. After that, that team prepared us that our daughter would be mentally retarded and never see a regular classroom. She graduates as a member of the National Honor Society and her peers chose her as “Most Christlike.”

Our Son; He completes his first school year as a teacher in the very school he was a student. He’s passionate about seeing the students soar past their potential because quite often he’s a rare voice in their lives rooting for them. He’s also getting married in July, and every plan for housing they have had so far has fallen through. It’s stressful.

Yet, as we talked about all that hasn’t happened, we’ve noted how God has spared them from disaster in the ones that didn’t pan out. I also mentioned that wherever their address is, Jesus is already there. He goes before us. As I pray, I can picture Him on a couch, stretched out, in complete peace. I love it. He’s already there. We just have to wait on His timing to reveal that address. Would you join us in prayer?

My Husband: He’s in a relatively new position that has him much busier than previous positions, but he shared it is way less stressful and he loves every aspect of it. He has support and encouragement. There will be changes in the next year, and already the powers that be have made it very clear they consider him an essential part of the changes and future. We both know there aren’t a lot of people who are paid to do what they love, and he does. God is good. So good.

Me: I’m starting to hear from readers about Anchored Hearts, and it touched them exactly as I prayed it would. I’m not about bestseller lists, I’m passionate about readers finding freedom in Christ through surrender. Yes, I write romance, and I love that God uses that to change lives. He’s the ultimate Author, and yes, He loves romance! Isn’t His Son the greatest love story?

It is busy and I know there are going to be moments I feel overwhelmed. I pray they are just moments and that my focus is on the praises. Because there are many. How about you? Do you see God’s hand at work?

***

Anchored Hearts will be FREE for Kindle Friday, May 27-Sunday, May 29. (Check price before purchase. Sale starts Friday at 3am Eastern.)

Can two go-getters surrender their need to control and find a happily-ever-after?

Jordyn Bell Hart succeeds in everything she does. Her promotion to morning show co-anchor blossoms her career in the same way her mother’s work had. Jordyn keeps tabs on her family and enjoys helping them grow. When life around her starts to change, can she surrender her desire to control?

Spencer Collins knows how to balance a busy life. He has his work as a reporter, his time caregiving for his grieving father, and looking out for his little brother. When he learns he’s the new co-anchor of a morning show with Jordyn Hart, can he handle working with a celebrity who brings a lot of challenges to life on and off the set?

What Others are Saying:

“Anchored Hearts (Surrendering Hearts Book 1) is wonderful, it catches you from page one. This author’s writing is amazing. I’m a huge fan of Julie Arduini, and Anchored Hearts tops my favorite book list for 2022! Do yourself a favor and read this one. It is definitely Julie at her very best! I’m looking forward to reading the other stories in the Surrendering Hearts series.” Dr. Rita Garcia, author, The Serenity Cove series

“Julie Arduini fans will be delighted to read her newly released Anchored Hearts, book 1 in her series, Surrendering Hearts. With well-developed characters and action-packed scenes, readers won’t want to put the book down.” BJ Bassett, author, Sweet Charity

“The Anchored Hearts plot is full of twists and turns that makes for a wonderful read as you follow Jordyn, and her siblings, through difficult and happy times. Arduini has a wonderful writing style and a knack for storytelling that promises a great word.”  Marie Bast,  Publishers Weekly bestselling author of The Amish Baker’s Rival

“Anchored Hearts is a wonderful story of surrendering control, something I have a hard time with. The struggle is real with the main characters, but Julie skillfully takes the reader on their journey. When the control issues are dealt with, they’re free to live and love. I highly recommend this book.” Linda Hoover, author, Heart’s Desire.