Hi there! I've decided to write a post about my book, "Why We Run", and how on earth it got published. I'll try to keep this short and sweet. :)
My whole life I've loved to read, and sometimes write. In 4th grade, I won the young writers conference with my picture book, "Santa's Lost Socks". I got to spend the day at Iowa Wesleyan College. It was so fun.
Then, in 11th grade, I wrote an essay about Farm Safety, sponsored by the REC in Mt. Pleasant. I won a trip to Washington DC. It really is a miracle, as I'm not a farm girl. I have no idea how this victory came about. Anyway, I remember packing my suitcase, the night before my first flight ever. We were watching that movie about the plane roof that ripped off. True story. People were being sucked out of the plane, still strapped in their seats. Mom, why were we watching that?
When I became a mom, I had this intense desire to write a children's book for my children. I knew it had to be about running, as that was such an important part of my life. I have very vivid memories of running with my dad as a little girl.. I wanted my kids to feel that bond, as well.
Then I became involved with the 12:1 Run. Hmm.. maybe my story could incorporate helping others?
In the Summer of 2011, God blessed my life with a trip to Burundi, Africa. While there, we delivered the chlorine producing units that the 12:1 Run raised money for. We spent a week teaching the villagers how to use these. A week looking at filthy, sick children, who made my heart hurt. I became overwhelmed with emotion for these people. Their lives were being dramatically changed. Dramatically improved! These mothers were holding their babes, and looking at us with hope!
And I became emotional for my people at home. The 12:1 Run Team, who have become my closest friends. Who pour their hearts into loving people they will never meet, this side of heaven. The sponsors, volunteers, and registrants who sacrifice their money, time, and energy into loving people they will never meet, this side of heaven. I just can't believe God lets me be a part of something so amazing.
I came home from Africa with a new drive towards the 12:1 Run. Yes, it's a lot of work. A lot of time. Sometimes frustrating, sometimes exhausting. But, I saw first-hand what God uses the 12:1 Run for.
I laid in bed one night.. tossing and turning. Then, the Lord spoke to me. I didn't actually hear His voice, but I knew it was from Him. I knew what my book was to be about. I hopped up, and started writing. Four hours later, I had written my first children's book. I believe with all my heart, that the words were from God.
The next morning, I read it to my kids. They were very sweet, very encouraging and very patient. I couldn't read it without crying. They patted my back, and Will dabbed my eyes with toilet paper. Mission accomplished. I wrote a children's book for my children.
As time went on...I felt an urging to pursue this book. It was on my computer, but maybe it needed to be (gasp!) published? No way. I'm a mom, and a nurse. I'm not a writer. But I kept feeling the Holy Spirit prompt me.. to pursue...
Enough for today.. stay tuned :)
Blessings and JOY!
Libby
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