Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Nervous

I’m feeling slightly nervous this morning.  Can you tell?  Are my palms all sweaty?

I’m excited too, but the excitement is laced with fears of failure that I just keep kicking to the curb with prayer.

You see, my book officially releases tomorrow. My first, solo book.  I wrote all 50,000 words of it.  By myself.  So you understand why I’m a little anxious.  But laying all my will-they-buy-it-and-like-it worries aside, I’m thrilled.  Thrilled because I like the book  and it’s no small feat to feel satisfied with the work of your hands. And more importantly, thrilled to finally start discovering how God will use these words in women’s lives.  And I know that He will.

Because I didn’t really write all those words by myself.

Want a sneak peak at the table of contents, opening, introduction and first chapter with Bible study section? I was hoping you might, and I prepared to grant you that wish!

It's No Secret, By Rachel Olsen (Chapter One)

(Click Fullscreen to read it larger)

If you’re at all intrigued, I hope that you will get the book. And read it. Read it with your girlfriend, book group, small group, mother-in-law … OK, so maybe you don’t want to read it with your mother-in-law.  Just give her a copy for Christmas this year.  (And maybe book mark it at chapter 7, or chapter 3)

Read it and tell others about it too.  Maybe read it and then pass your copy to a friend. Or leave it at the gym or waiting room for others to pick up.  Or donate it to the library.

Of course as much as I want you to read it and then pass it on to bless someone else, I’m secretly hoping you won’t want to pass it on. You’ll want to keep it because you enjoyed it and plan to reread it.  Besides, you’ll have underlined, written in and marked it all up. Even if you aren’t normally a write-in-my-books-kind-of-gal. That’s my hope, but there’s always the chance that you won’t … and that’s what’s got me a little nervous this morning.

Meanwhile, I’m off to teach a group of college students today and grade their first speeches to our class. They have to tell a story from their lives in this speech.  So they have to share something personal with strangers, just as I’ve done in the book. I bet they’re feeling slightly nervous too. We’ll all be anxious and jittery together.

To win a copy of the book, leave a comment by Thursday telling me if you are a write-in-the-book person, or a keep-the-pages-clean person. Or, just tell me how you typically approach Bible study – is it challenging for you or are you comfortable with it? And to help me spread the word about this new release, you’ll get an extra entry if you Tweet, Face Book or blog about this giveaway today and point people here to read the sneak peek.

Thankful for your willingness to read and tell others about it!

79 comments:

  1. Rachel, I am so excited for you. I am an English teacher and I write ALL over books!! All in my Bible, my bible studies, and anything else I can write in. I got a Sony reader for Christmas and that is the one complaint I have - can't write in it. Even if I dont win I am going to get your book. It sounds wonderful. Enjoy your day.

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  2. Rejoicing with you! Excited to read your new book!! Going to order it asap!

    Hugs, love and prayers,
    Sharon

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  3. How excited I am for you! I definitely am a write-in-my-books kind of gal. I love to make notes, highlight and underline. As far as Bible study goes, I fair much better if I have some kind of guide.

    Loved reading your sneak peek this morning. Can't wait to read more!

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  4. Rachel, that intro and first chapter were awesome! They drew me in this morning and most definitely left me wanting more. I can't wait to read the rest! I live in new england and reading the "southern belle" expressions is so fun. I visited Wilmington this summer with my family and fell absolutely in love with it..aahh North Carolina. Anyway, as for my reading style I am a highlighting, mark it up kinda girl. Then I usually share the books anyway. If a book has inspired me or in some way drawn me to Christ then it's a must to share it! Thank you so much for your intro to your book and for your blog, they both are such blessings!!

    Have an amazing day!
    Angel

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  5. Rachel,
    I saw the entry on Proverbs 31 about your book and I plan to pick it up tomorrow!
    I am a write in the book kind of gal for sure. I love a good bible study that gives me another trusted persons insight and then I'm able to discover the truth for myself-to agree or disagree with that person.
    Looking forward to the book!
    Allison

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  6. Hi Rachel,

    Congratulations on the book release! How exciting for you!

    I'm an "underline if really impressed by something" kind of reader but I don't often make notes. But I'm also a library book reader so I don't actually do as much of that as I might otherwise. As for quiet time and bible study, I prefer to follow a study guide. It keeps me focused. I would love to win a copy of your new book, and would definitely read it with pencil in hand!

    Blessings,
    Sherry

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  7. I for the most part like to keep the pages clean. I keep a notebook journal handy for writing in.

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  8. Hello! So happy that your book is coming out tomorrow, what a great thing the LORD has helped you to accomplish. I have one Bible that I write in and one that I don't. I make little notes in the margins and underline things & when I really want to remember something I put the date by my note:)

    Thanks for the give away would love to win a copy!

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  9. Lara's Laugh LinesAugust 31, 2010

    You got me with the sugar cubes on the cover! :D I am making a book wish list for the new school year and "It's No Secret" will definitely be #1. I always find a gem in your blogs & devotions. A whole book will be like digging in a treasure chest!! What kind of reader am I? I'm a "sticky note"/ "jot it down in a journal" kind of girl, except for my Bible. It gets underlined, highlighted, notes & dates.
    :D Happy Day!!

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  10. Telling my closest friends and family about your book through my blog post this morning : )

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  11. Rachel, very excited for you! I loved reading what you shared and can't wait to dig deeper into it. I am a write-in-the-book person. I am a fairly new Christian as of 2005 and still need help when digging through the Bible. I go to Bible studies at my Church. The end of this month our womens bible study starts back up and I am so excited to learn more of God's Word. I will pass this on to my friends. Prays going out to you on you and if I don't win the book I know i will be buying it! God Bless

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  12. I read (more accurately devoured) the preview chapter of your new book! I am so happy for you. I can't wait to read the whole thing. I write in my books (and my bible), highlight, you name it! This book seems perfect for a friend that I am mentoring who is knew in the faith and has so many questions. I will have to share this with her. God bless you.

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  13. Book sounds great. I am a write in, underline, highlight kind of gal. Love to make notes and mark what really struck me in the reading. Many blessings to you today!

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  14. This is the first time that I've looked at your blog. I could spend all day here reading your stories along with the comments left by readers. Thank you so much for being such an inspiration.
    By the way, I am a write in the book kind of girl. Anyone who gets my books after me would probably get a giggle.
    debbie645@yahoo.com

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  15. You grabbed my attention from the first page of the excerpt of your book. I love to write in, underline and highlight my Bible, as well as write little quotes and references in the back empty pages of the cover. I am hoping that some day, probably after the Lord takes me to be with Him, my daughter or granddaughter will pick it up and be able to see the secrets that God revealed to me. Thank you for sharing your heart, feelings and personal story and His secret truths. May God bless your book and it be used to encourage women to a deeper walk with Him!

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  16. Excited about your new book! Sounds fascinating! I am a write in the books kind of gal! I always write notes in church service and underline anything that strikes me. My Bible is VERY worn and I believe that is a good thing! That means it is used! I can always go back and look at something I have written or underlined in a book and it will help me to understand something better or remind me of something. Thanks for all you do Rachel! GOD Bless you and your ministry! Julie J-Bug@att.net

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  17. I can't wait to get the book and really dig in - the first chapter was so inspiring and very moving! I like to "keep the pages" clean - but I have lots of journals that coincide with the study books that I've read. My favorite thing to do is to dig into God's Word and uncover His secrets - I've just started a Bible study with my children and the first chapter of your book highlights so much of what we were just learning last night! God is so Awesome!
    Thanks so much for being bold and sharing your story, may God truly bless you through it!

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  18. Here I am - I'm 55 and I finally get that passage about the marriage supper - I had no idea those who were invited were dressed and ready to go at anytime!
    As for the book, definitely NOT clean page, not with a pen and chocolate and/or coffee around! :-)

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  19. I am praising the Lord today for how is has and is going to use the book He helped you write to minister to well, me! Just reading your sweet introduction and first chapter, along with the Bible study portion, just rattled my internal "world". It is comforting to be reminded that I am not alone in my struggles. I also read some of the comments from your recent post and Carla's so touched my heart. I recently told a friend that I felt captive wandering in the desert. I believe the Lord allowed me to 'stumble' across your blog today for a wonderful divine purpose. I will wait expectantly for Him...
    Blessings,
    Dawn

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  20. Natasha RamseyAugust 31, 2010

    Rachel,

    I am new to your site. I really enjoyed ready the stories. I read the first chapter and from the table of contents I knew this was a must read for me. I love reading. I am a highlighter, then I underline, then when I am done I tend to journal about it if what I read touched me or made me think about myself. My approach to Bible study is the same way. I like to read early in the morning before my family of 7 children and husband awake. And at night once the house is quiet and I am winding down from my day.

    Thank you for making the first chapter available for reading. It was a great start to what I am sure is a great book.

    Natasha Ramsey
    nramz113@hotmail.com

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  21. Hi, Rachel. As a writer who's waiting for the day I'll feel the nervousness you are feeling today, I'm very excited for you! Congratulations, and I know your book will be just as God has ordained. So try to relax and watch for His perfect will!
    I'm definitely a write-in-the-book kinda girl, and I love bible studies!

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  22. I was so very blessed this morning as I read this first chapter. I could identify with trouble digging into the Bible. I truly desire to go deeper, but often find I just don't understand, what is it saying to me. I do mark in my Bible.

    Thank you for sharing such a great and life changing insight with us.

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  23. Alright, I'm intrigued by the first chapter! This book looks fantastic, and I'm excited about the relating bible studies.

    As for how I study, I'm actually not a write-in-the-book girl. Something about clean pages and smooth book covers (even in books I read over and over and over again!). I do, however, keep a "book journal" and make my notes about a book in a separate journal. I make notes on all kinds of books, non-fiction and fiction alike. I also keep a document on my computer of verses, thoughts, etc I want to come back to. I might eventually turn to actually writing in the book, as it'd probably be easier. :-) I also love and look forward to bible studies. Sounds like we're alike in that we both love being students.

    Congratulations on the book releasing tomorrow! I'm praying for you now...

    In Christ,
    Caroline

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  24. Really enjoyed the 1st chapter & am excited to read all of it & also to share it with my daughter. I enjoy digging deeper into God's Word & underlining & highlighting the stuff that He is speaking to me.
    Blessings, Julie S.

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  25. I can't imagine that kind of excitement! Congratulations! It is my prayer that God will speak through those 50000 words. :) Writing in my books is a new thing for me but I'm definitely getting more into doing that. Especially in a book that has really spoken to me. It is great to look back later and see what was revealed to me that I might have forgotten!

    Have a blessed day!
    Kari

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  26. Rachel, I was really blessed with the first chapter of your book and so excited for you!! Thank you for sharing so openly with us. I am a "write in my book" person. I do my morning devotions every morning with Proverbs 31...always take notes and write down the scriptures. You all are such a blessing to me..thank you!! I plan to get your book and tell others about it.

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  27. Congratulations, Rachel, on your book. I will put a post on my blog and refer to your site.

    Writing in books depends on the book I'm reading, the Bible, study books,etc.

    Pray is will be a sell-out the first day.
    AliceE.

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  28. Hi Rachel, I recently read the intro to your book on Amazon, as it was featured there. I was totally drawn in and want to read the book soon!

    I always underline, highlight, asterisk and make notes in my books. Having done reporting (I was a Journalism major), this is second nature. Only I usually don't mark up my Bibles (want to keep them clean and just take notes on paper) - except the new Bible I got last year - have been bracketing a lot of things there.

    Also, I ALWAYS take notes at Bible study. Don't often loan out my books (I like to keep them for further reference), but I do once in awhile if I sense the Holy Spirit's prompting to do so. But I do share snippets, etc., from my reading with others at Bible studies, conversations with others, etc.

    Would love to win a copy of the book!

    Andrea
    ahenry048@aol.com

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  29. Rachel, what an awesome read. I am a write in my books kind of gal. It helps me go back and reference what I found to be important to apply. Congratulations on an incredible read that will bless so many lives and change all our hearts to search after and draw closer to our Lord and Savior!

    Sweet Blessings,
    Donna

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  30. Rachel,
    Congratulations on your new book. I read the introduction and first chapter and can't wait to read the rest.
    It depends on what book I am reading whether or not I mark or write in it.

    Have a great day,
    Deb V

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  31. Rachel, so excited for you! I'm a writer - notes that I can hardly read adorn the edges of the pages of my Bible and other books. I also like to highlight, so my books are pretty colorful by the time I'm done. I really enjoyed the first chapter (and shed a few tears, too) of the book. If I don't win, I'll be picking it up very soon and recommending it for our ladies' group. Blessings, Patti

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  32. Rachel,

    Congratulations on your first book. I read your Proverbs 31 entry today and I can definately tell you are a woman of great wisdom - God has revealed many secrets to you, as you have walked in obedience. You are such a blessing and it is written all over your face !!!

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  33. Hi Rachel...hope your "nervous butterflys" aren't too bad today! So excited for you and look forward to the rest of your book. I tend to write in and/or underline passages in any book that touches me, especially my Bible. I do try to follow a Bible study guide but do so much better with a group as I love the interaction, even online. Blessings to you! Enjoy your day! Debby

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  34. "Because I didn’t really write all those words by myself."

    Writing a book is such a solitary endeavor, with hours spent alone, away from the laughter of family that sneaks through the crack under the office door. It's comforting to hear your words because it helps me remember that when we write, we're never alone. Congratulations on the new book!

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  35. Loving that you are about to become a fully realized published solo author!!! :) YEAH!

    I'm sad to admit that I can't carry a tune in a bucket either. But I do love praising my God in song--just not very loudly! :)

    I hate to admit that I go back and forth with the whole write-in or keep it clean book method. Sometimes it just is what it is! :)

    Prayers and blessings,
    Rebecca
    tiggerdaisy@gmail.com

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  36. Thanks for the preview of your new book- I read it all and can't wait to read the rest! Love your writing style!! I write in my books, underline and highlight. I enjoy group bible studies using a guide. Need to get more disciplined about a consistant quiet time with my bible and the Lord on a daily basis. Thanks!

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  37. I write in books... I write in my Bible... I highlight and underline and circle and star and heart - whatever jumps out at me. I am excited to read your book. I'm hoping to win it since we are on a very tight budget the next few months, but if not I will ask my library to get it and will read it that way.

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  38. You're going to do great. I'm excited for you. I used to be a keep the pages clean, now I'm a underline, highlight write in the margin kind of gal.

    Lynn

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  39. I also tweeted about this giveaway :-)

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  40. I facebooked about it too... I really want to read the rest :-)

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  41. Reading your sneak peek now...can't wait to finish it!

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  42. I am a write in the book highlight it and reread over and over---sorry friends ...this sounds like one of the books to keep in my collection...

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  43. I love to read. I am a clean page reader and I read for pleasure and understanding. Your book sounds amazing. I can't wait to start reading the sooner I win a copy the sooner I can get started. Ready to read....

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  44. Yeehaw for you Rachel! I'm so excited for you! Writing a book is a dream for me. Someday....

    I blogged about it!

    http://queenieslittlekingdom.com/?p=3146

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  45. I've only read a few pages of your book and am anxious to read the rest already!Don't this be your one and only book; you have a lot to offer.
    To answer your question, I write in my Bible and I underline in Bible study books and I fold over pages I want to keep and if it is on the computer and I can forward it, I do...in capital letters READ THIS. I only wish I could sometimes underline the things people say because some people have great thoughts.
    Thank you for giving me this sneak peak but also for your page on P31 today.

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  46. Absolutely mark all over the book kind of gal. I write in pencil, highlight, and use the little post-it's that come with the highlighter so I can find the pages that really spoke to me.
    I am very excited for you and your first book all by yourself...what a huge accomplishment! I followed you here for the first time today and thrilled I did. I am bookmarking your blog so I can keep up with you now. Nice meeting you.

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  47. Write in the book, oui! oui! I like to choose my favorite pen (currently a Pentel EnerGel) and mark, underline, circle--you name it!

    Congratulations on your book. May God bless its publication!

    Jennifer

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  48. Your book is intriguing and I read with interest the first chapter which means I need to enjoy more of it! Your testimony is very poignant and full of God's grace and mercy to a motherless girl. I hope you have great success in your writing career to glory God.

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  49. Rachel,
    I'm so excited for you! I'm definitely a write in the book kind of girl. I always have my highlighter out and ready to go!

    I'll be sure to do a facebook link to this too!

    Congrats!

    Blessings,
    Jodie Wolfe

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  50. Amy ReynoldsAugust 31, 2010

    I write in my books and I always try to also write the date beside the note I am writing. It is always a blessing to look back and see what the Lord was doing at that certain time in my life.

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  51. dear rachel, lately i have become a 'book junkie' and having found this site has make me very happy, now i know where to find books by and for christian women, would love to get your book. when i read i either read some, then the next night reread that part and go a little further...or..i get so caught up in part of it tht i speed read ahead to followthat particular topic. your book would definitely aid in my bible reading comprehension. applejones477@yahoo.com

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  52. I have only recently discovered what you are talking about. I have started reading my Bible every day and things have started 'clicking'. I have also started a womens Bible study where I am writing in the margins and underlining in my book. I never used to do that, but it helps with the discussions and, when I re-read this book (which I will do), it will give me some insights to new things.

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  53. Rachel, How exciting this is! I read the first chapter and cannot wait to purchase the book. I am the director of Women's Ministry at our church and can't wait to share this book with the ladies in our group. God Bless You & Your Family, Jo

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  54. Oh I'm excited for you! And for all of us who will get to read It's No Secret.

    And, rest assured when I win/buy my copy it will be well loved and written in for sure!

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  55. I'm a write in the book kinda gal! I read with a pen and I even sticky note flag as well.
    Just can't help it.....I LOVE WORDS!!

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  56. I like to write in my books, esp my Bible. I envision one day being wise and looking back at all my scribbles in my bible and having a chuckle or seeing how far the Lord has brought me on the journey. Thanks for sharing so much of your book and your life. What struck me was how the Father is inviting us to learn His secrets yet we don't always treat it with the same enthusiasm we do our friends' secrets. This is really changing the way I look at the Bible...and I needed that at just this time. God's timing is perfect! Thank you!

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  57. Congratulations, Rachel, on the release of your first solo book!!! I read the intro and the first chapter and loved it! Thank you for being so open and honest with us and for revealing to us how God worked in your life. I always enjoy hearing stories of how people came to Christ!

    While I'm reading bible study-type books, I usually take notes on a separate sheet of paper or in a notebook/journal. I like to keep the book clean! :)

    Natalie

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  58. How exciting for you! I really enjoyed the preview.

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  59. Wow, I loved what I just read! I can't wait to underline & write notes in my own copy!

    Mary

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  60. I just read your devotional online about trusting & obeying, and I'm in awe because it's the exact lesson God's been speaking to me. It was really encouraging to get the reminder, so thank you. And congrats on your new book! I write and underline everywhere in books that speak to me so I can return often to it and remember it. I'm sure your book will bring lots of inspiration and encouragement to women!

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  61. Mrs. Rachel
    thank you so much for the encouragement on P31. I actually have thought that I'm not cut out for understanding the bible. I was encourAged More than ever.

    Christine
    misscsierra@hotmail.com

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  62. Thank you for the chapter you shared on-line. I taught Bible studies for years and then came home to cyber school my children and have not been able to attend one. I miss my girlfriends and the several hours a week it took to prepare for the "party" and then our time together celebrating. Blessings to you and your family! Looking forward to the rest of the book...

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  63. By the way, it depends on the book whether I write in it...

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  64. So proud of you, I can't wait to read it. Will the office have some copies?

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  65. Congrats on the book and on allowing God to use you to bless others!

    I used to be a keep-the-pages-clean type of gal but now as I get more into my reading I'm becoming a write-in-the-book person.

    Mimi
    myrlanded@gmail.com

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  66. I'm a write in the margin, use a post it note, write in a journal, blog it type of person. Right now I am working on learning the Truth God has for me and learning his promises for my live. I struggle with control and relinquishing that control. How exciting to learn the secret of God!

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  67. Rachel,
    I was very excited to read your sample chapter! What an incite into God's word! I am a write-in-my-notes kind of gal. I love having a guide and teacher for Bible studies.
    Can't wait to read more of your new book.

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  68. Rachel, the book seems like it's going to be a great read!!! Congratulations!!! I'm a leave-the-pages clean person, but I typically take notes on what I read and record them in a personal journal. I may also use post-it notes on meaningful sections until I can write in the journal. Thanks for the book excerpt!

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  69. I'm excited to read more of your book! I fight my urge to write in books by keeping any notes I want to take in a small notebook. I like to keep the pages clean for when I want to read it again and not just look at my earlier notes.

    Thanks so much for writing this book!
    Angela

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  70. i'm a keep the pages clean kind of person. if someone else comes along who may be able to use it i'd prefer for them to do it.

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  71. Ok you caught me! I can't read without a pen in my hand! :-) I write, highlight - then re-read and think about it again.....

    But that's not what I want to tell you -- the strangest thing of all to me (not sure why, because I know God used you in this) was that our pastor just asked us to write down "hard questions", and he would take the next month to answer them through sermons. One of my questions had to do with what you talked about today - why are there some things in scripture that are so difficult to understand - why did Jesus talk in parables to the people and only explain them to his disciples?

    So THANK YOU for letting God write to me through you. You are right - if you seek Him, you will find Him. He is so faithful!

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  72. Rachel, I am so happy for you on your newest book. From what I have just read, it's gonna be a good one. I am a write in the pages of my book kinda of girl. Can't wait to be able to read the whole book. God bless you and have a great day!

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  73. SO excited for you! Congratulations! I'm definitely a write-in-the-book kind of reader. :-)

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  74. Rachel,
    I love your book already!! It definately left me wanting to read more. I am a write-in-the-book type of person, who finds Bible study a challenge. I do need some kind of a guide. Like Michelle, if I don't win your book, I will get it asap!! Thank-you for writing it, it is needed. God bless you. Don't be nervous, it's going to be just fine. God is in control.

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  75. I am a highlighter. I love to refer back to those things that really spoke to me, so I can look them up with some ease.

    I love to do Bible Study, because it makes me go deeper.

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  76. I write in all of my books! That's why I know I'll never get a eBook reader! lol. I'm excited about your new book...it's already addicting!

    *Lenci

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  77. How exciting!!! Congratulations. The book sounds great. I was drawn in immediately when you wanted to tell ME a secret. ;) And I, too, love to write in books - especially my Bible. I always date a special passage when God takes me there, so when I'm taken there again, I can see the path of where I've been before.

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  78. I am a clean page kind of girl when it comes to books. But, I write in my bible.

    I loved the first chapter of you book. I can't wait to read the rest.

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  79. Got my copy hot off the press today at PC3 bookstore! As you know I sometimes eat lunch at my desk, so while reading the first couple of chapters, it now has chocolate chip cookie on one page, but I'm also an underliner and note taker. The first chapters were great and I'm looking forward to reading more.

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