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Thursday, February 13, 2014

Tanya Eavenson: Why She's Handing Her Future To God

Everyone's Story welcomes the lovely Tanya Eavenson. As a blogger who hosts weekly guests from all over the world I've been blessed to share exciting news, have offered shoulders to lean on, helped to lift others in spirit, have been taught many unexpected life lessons, and in the case of Tanya's special week here, offer a bittersweet sampling of the contrasts in life and why we all need to reach out to the only One who is strong enough to get us through our days. Please congratulate Tanya as she celebrates her one-year anniversary of her release of her debut novel UNCONDITIONAL. Check out her novel excerpt and special Giveaway offer! And see what news Tanya wants to share with you and why she does. Please consider adding Tanya into your prayers. Heartfelt thanks.


Book Giveaway:
Tanya is offering one e-version of her novel UNCONDITIONAL to one randomly chosen commenter. The winner will be announced here on Friday, February 21st, between 5-6 PM EST. For convenience, please leave your contact information within your comment. Thanks!


Here's a peek inside from Tanya's novel:




UNCONDITIONAL by Tanya Eavenson

Chapter One

Elizabeth pushed herself up from the bed. Her gaze swept the dark room and fixed on the hall nightlight. Her hand grazed over her husband’s shoulder when a thought gripped her. Katherine. The baby monitor stood silent. Darkness shrouded the red and green lights that indicated movement.
Her chest tightened. She hurled the covers away and leapt to the floor. Panic made her clumsy as she rushed to her daughter’s room. She lunged over the crib. No sound. No movement. Not even a stirring of air from her tiny nostrils.
“Katherine!” Elizabeth snatched her daughter from the mattress. The infant drew a heavy breath as her eyes flung wide open.
Lord, what’s happening?
Elizabeth’s bare feet pounded the cold tile as she ran back to her husband. “Chris, wake up! Katherine quit breathing again!”
Chris rubbed his eyes and scowled. “What is it?”
“We need to take Katherine to the hospital. She stopped breathing.”
He studied their child. “She seems to be breathing now. Are you sure?”
“Of course, I’m sure.”
“She’s fine.” Chris fell back against the pillow.
“Please—”
“We don’t have the money to take her to the hospital when there’s nothing wrong with her.”
“But there is. She stopped breathing.”
He sat back up. “You’ve been worried about her since before she was born. You’re all worked up because she hasn’t rolled over yet. The doctor said that’s normal for being early.”
She’s called a preemie. She glared into his eyes. “If you were home more often you’d know she’s not fine.”
“I’m home, Elizabeth, and she’s fine.”
Heat flushed her cheeks as tears filled her eyes. “I’m scared. Can’t you see that? I need you to pray for our daughter. I need you to hold me and tell me everything will be all right.”
“Look, she’s sleeping.” His voice softened as his hand ran down her thigh. “Come to bed.”
“How can you care so little? I’m worried about our baby.”
Chris’s hand dropped to the sheets. “Shut the door when you leave.” He turned away from her.
Elizabeth stood for a moment unable to speak. With their baby in her arms, she slowly closed the door behind her and sank her teeth into her lip to keep from crying. If tears came, it would be for her daughter, not for the stranger in her bed.





From Fiction to Reality By Tanya Eavenson

Ever had those moments when you read a novel and it’s as if the author wrote the story line, the characters, or included a verse just for you?

At the beginning of December, I took a novel from my bookshelf, snuggled on the couch with a blanket, and began to read. The title of the novel is called The Rancher’s Reunion by Tina Radcliffe. The hero in the story is Will, and he has a hereditary disease that caused him to fear, not only his future, but in trusting God. And that’s when God used this story to speak to me, when my world turned from fiction to reality by a flip of the page.

“I’m scared, Annie.”
“I know, Will. I know.” She blinked back the moisture pricking her eyes.
“No, Annie. I don’t think you do. I’m not just scared. I’m terrified.”

And I understood Will’s fear. Weeks prior to reading this novel, my doctor told me I had cancer. It’s a single word that can change the course of your life, emotionally, physically, but not only yours, others around you. And though I knew God’s presence would be with me no matter what the future held, my desire to write or edit anything had vanished. Honestly, I wasn’t sure I wanted to write anymore with my future so uncertain. I wasn’t just scared, but terrified my time with my family would be shortened.

But as I continued to read Will’s story, God’s whispered words, Do not be afraid of things you cannot control, pray, and continue your call to write, took hold and draped around my heart.

I knew at that moment this book was meant to be read at this appointed time. That God was leading me to give Him every single fear, open my laptop, and begin to write again.

It’s been three weeks since I’ve been back to writing and editing. It’s slow going, but I’ve given my fears to God the only way I can, like Will, doing it God’s way. Day by day. Moment by moment. For the rest of my life.

If you’ve ever been like me and allowed fear to control your future, 1 Samuel 12:24 is a wonderful reminder. Don’t fear the future or things you cannot control, but live a life God has called you. So have you ever had times in your life where fiction turned to reality? If so, I’d love to hear your story. 


For anyone who doesn't win Tanya's novel in the Giveaway, UNCONDITIONAL is on sell for $.99 on Amazon this week. Check it out here and take advantage of this great read during Tanya's one-year anniversary of her debut novel.

Tanya's Ah-hahs To Tweet:


Everyone has a story: Author Tanya Eavenson’s travels from fiction to reality. (Tweet This)

Fear the future? Check out author Tanya Eavenson’s remedy. #BookGiveaway (Tweet This)

Plain afraid? Tanya Eavenson has a suggestion. (Tweet This)

Win #BookGiveaway of Tanya Eavenson’s novel UNCONDTIONAL. (Tweet This)

Author's Bio:
Tanya Eavenson enjoys spending time with her husband, and their three children. Her favorite pastime is grabbing a cup of coffee, eating chocolate, and reading a good book. Tanya is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and writes for Christ to the World Ministries.


Places to connect with Tanya:

57 comments:

  1. Hi Tanya,
    My thoughts and prayers are with you, praying God will bless you not only with complete healing but also that his blessings will pour over you throughout the healing journey.
    Your book excerpt jump started my afternoon! I'm hooked and I need to know that Katherine is going to be okay. Great job capturing my attention and my heart.
    Many blessings and hugs to you,
    Lisa

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    1. Lisa, thanks so much for visiting on this cold, snowy day. Your words just brought joyous tears to my eyes and warmth to my heart. I love when you visit,

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    2. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers, Lisa. It’s a blessing to visit with Elaine and feel such love from her readers. Hugs to you as well! And I'm so glad you enjoyed the excerpt for Unconditional and it captured your attention. Hope you enjoy the story.

      I appreciate your visit!

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  2. Lifting you up, praying for God's total and complete healing. The C word is enough to send shivers through even the strongest person. May God give you peace and joy each morning and sleep at night. Don't enter me in the contest--I already have Unconditional on my Kindle, hoping to get to it in the next few days!

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    1. Pat, though I can't speak for Tanya (she'll be responding) I have a feeling you've helped to lift her spirits today. Blessings to you.

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    2. Pat, I was shocked for sure, but it's the Lord's presence, the prayers like yours, Elaine's, Lisa's, and others that have given me strength. Thank you so much for your prayers and your visit. I hope you enjoy Unconditional!

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  3. I'm glad you are continuing to write. This book looks good. The excerpt was gripping.
    susanmsj at msn dot com

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    1. Susan, thanks for visiting Everyone's Story this evening. Do stop by again to see what Tanya has to say.

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    2. Susan, Me too! =) I can't imagine my life without writing. It's a blessing God wants to use me. I'm so glad you enjoyed the excerpt and entered to win. Thank you for stopping by!

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  4. Hi Tanya! Thanks for sharing your story. May God bless you and your family. Praying for healing and courage for all of you. Have a little extra chocolate too. :)

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    1. Tom, thanks for your visit and your kind words.

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    2. Tom, you're speaking my language ... chocolate. =) Thank you for stopping by and for your words of encouragement. I'm grateful. Blessings to you.

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  5. Amazing story of how fiction can impact our lives. I shared the link with Tina! :)

    And, Tanya, {{{big hug}}} on getting a "C" on your report card. Praying for you, friend.

    Don't enter me for Unconditional. I've got my OWN signed copy already. Wonderful book! :)

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    1. Pam, thanks for your visit today to Everyone's Story and for your support of my lovely guest, Tanya. And what a wonderful reason for not wanting to enter the Giveaway drawing :)

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    2. Thank you so much, Pam. Hugs to you my sweet friend.

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  6. Goodness. I got goosebumps as I read this, Tanya. Seriously. Thanks for mentioning The Rancher's Reunion.

    Will's story is a true one. And his fear is based on something I went thru, but we all go thru. At some point in life we all will be against the wall and have to decide if we are going to walk WITH HIM or AWAY FROM HIM.

    XXXX

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    1. Tina, thanks for visiting both Tanya and me today and for bringing great encouragement. Tanya is going through so much health wise, and I'm feeling stuck in both a physical winter that isn't letting up that is causing an emotional winter of spirits. This sweet reminder to walk with our loving God and Savior is the perfect and only balm.

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    2. Tina, God used you and your words to touch my life and I'm so thankful. Thank you for writing The Rancher's Reunion. For your story will always be a part of my testimony. Hugs...

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  7. WOW. Thanks, Elaine, for hosting Tanya, because this blog today brought tears to my eyes, touching me deeply where I've had a spiritual ache.

    Tanya, my heart goes out to you in prayer for your health, and I rejoice that we serve Jehovah Rapha, the God Who Heals! I am saying one for you right now that God not only heals you, but enriches your life and your writing through the entire process.

    I've read Tina Radcliffe's book, and it's wonderful, and I have no doubt that yours is too.

    Hugs,
    Julie

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    1. Julie, your visit today brings warmth to my heart. I truly appreciate your words and prayers for Tanya.

      I love the opportunity this blog forum brings to me: meeting beautiful, God-loving people that uplift others and pray for them. Bless all of you.

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    2. Thank you so much for your sweet words and prayers, Julie. I have tears in my eyes from the outpouring of love and prayers I'm receiving. It was my hope to offer encouragement to others through this post, but I've been richly blessed beyond words. Thank you for stopping by.

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  8. What a wonderful example of how the sweet simplicity of a good book can make a difference in our lives. Tanya, God bless you. This is just a blessed confirmation of how life can offer challenge... and God offers strength.

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    1. Thanks for your uplifting words, Ruth. I appreciate your visit here to Everyone's Story.

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    2. So true, Ruth. If you haven't had a chance to read Tina's novel, I highly recommend it. What a blessed confirmation it is. God is indeed faithful as we cling to Him. Thank you for visiting!

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  9. Tanya,
    *Hugs* Adding my prayers that you will overcome this and in the end, be stronger. Each day is a blessing, and I believe life's challenges are there to make us take a close look at our priorities, and to give us insight for upcoming life events. Not that we like them, but with everything else we face, HE is there with us and gives us strength to move forward. I remember one time I was in an awful relationship, where one night I almost died. Looking back, I realize that moment taught me many lessons, but it also allowed me a deeper understanding of abuse. When I see people who are in a similar situation, I can speak to them with credibility and hopefully inspire them to move from the bad situation. There's nothing easy about any of this, it's hard, it makes you cry, but as we persevere, we grow through His strength. He is there every step of the way, we just have to look, to feel, to sense his presence. God bless you and know that I am praying for you daily.
    *Hugs*

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    1. Diana, as always, beautiful words of faith and perseverance. I know some of your past, but not of the abusive situation. So sorry to hear that. I'm glad you're out of there and have strengthened enough to reach out to others.

      You're so right. Life is *not* easy. Thank God we have God to guide us through and to lean us. Thank God that He is intercessory to our needs.

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    2. What a wonderful testimony you have, Diana. Thank you for sharing. I'm thankful God brought you out of that relationship and now has you helping others. You are so right, nothing in this life is easy, but the grace and mercy of Christ. We cling to Him and His promises to help us through. Thank you so much for your prayers and visit. You've blessed me.

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  10. Tina may have written that book just for you, Tanya! God inspired her to write the story knowing you would need her message of hope. God's like that, and Tina listens to his voice. Sounds as if you do too!

    He wants his children healed and whole. Praying for your doctors, for the perfect treatment and your return to perfect health. Holding you close in prayer and with love!

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    1. Debby, thanks for visiting and offering Tanya your prayers and thoughts.

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    2. Debby, in 2011 I attended the ACFW conference and I remember picking up your "The Writer's Prayer." The beginning says, "Lord, inspire me to write stories that touch reader's hearts." Your writer's prayer is something I've held on to. I pray this as I write. Yet, to know God would draw me through another's story in such an intimate way ... how blessed I am.

      I believe your right. Tina wrote this story for me and others to show God's faithfulness and we can trust Him in any circumstance. I'm just so thankful I was listening. =)

      Thank you for your prayers and saying hello. I'm blessed by your visit.

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    3. You've warmed my heart, Tanya! So glad The Writer's Prayer speaks to YOUR heart! God gave me the prayer soon after I got The Call! But it wasn't just for me. The prayer was for everyone who wants to write His stories! Hugs!

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    4. Hugs to you, Debby! Thank you.

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  11. I would love a chance to win this book. Thank you for this opportunity.

    clSwalwell@gmail.com

    in Him,

    Cheri :)

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    1. Cheri, I'm thinking Tanya is smiling as she reads your words--what author wouldn't be thrilled to see someone excited for the opportunity to win and read her novel?

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    2. Elaine is right, Cheri! You have been so supportive, I can't help but smile. Thank you for visiting and wanting to win Unconditional. Blessing my blogger friend!

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  12. It's so wonderful to think our work can truly touch...not just entertain. How wonderful that Tina's book was there for you right when you needed it. God bless you, Tanya. How things are going well.

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    1. Mary, I'm happy to see your visit today. Thanks for sharing your sweet concern over a fellow writer, all-round lovely woman, and God's daughter.

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    2. Our work truly can, Mary. I guess you can say I'm a testimony. =) Thank you so much. I appreciate you and your visit. Blessings.

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  13. Tanya, God never gives us more than we can endure. He leads us to great sources of encouragment in the most unexpected places. I'm so thankful He placed Tina's book in your hands and opened your heart to the message. My prayers for healing are with you!

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    1. Audra, welcome to Everyone's Story. I'm so thankful for your visit as well as your loving words to my special guest, Tanya. Hope to see you again.

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    2. Audra, so true! And I am blessed and thankful to Elaine for allowing me to share. But I'm encouraged beyond measure with love, prayers, and the support everyone's shown me. Thank you...

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  14. Tanya my prayers are with you! I pray the Lord give you a complete healing. Love to win your book sounds so good.
    Blessings
    Diana
    joeym11(at)frontier(dot)com

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    1. Diana, thanks for stopping by and offering some comfort. You're in the drawing for Tanya's book!

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    2. It's wonderful to see you here, Diana. Thank you so much for your prayers. I appreciate you stopping by.

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  15. Elaine, thank you for having Tanya. Tanya, thanks so much for sharing your story. It's so moving to see how God reaches out to touch us.

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    1. I'm very thankful to Elaine for allowing me to share my heart. God is so good. Thank you, Missy. I appreciate you stopping by and saying hello.

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    2. I may be a day late, but thanks for your visit Missy. I am especially grateful for your uplifting words… it's difficult for us humans to remember God's love for us when a dark spot occurs in life, but remembering that His light guides us out into His brightness is a must, at least for me.

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  16. Tanya, adding healing for you to my prayer list! Good for you for getting back to your routine. God is faithful. Looking forward to seeing you at ACFW again soon.

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    1. Kathy, I so appreciate your visits and cheerful, kind words.

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    2. Thank you so much, Kathy. He sure is! I'm looking forward to seeing you as well!

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  17. Tanya, thank you for sharing about your struggle and your faith! It's so good
    that you've been able to get back to your writing. You are a wonderful
    example. Praying for the Lord's healing for you.

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    1. Kathy, it's so nice to see you again. Thanks for sharing an encouraging word with Tanya.

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    2. Thank you, Kathleen. I'm glad to be back writing as well, there's such a peace. I appreciate your sweet prayers and words. So glad you stopped by to say hello. Blessings!

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  18. Tanya, I'm late getting to your post, but can't thank you enough for sharing your story. I've had cancer and know that terror. Twenty-nine years later I'm here to tell you God hears our prayers. I'm touched how Tina's wonderful book ministered to you. Not that I'm surprised. But I'm in a dry spell and needed the reminder that our stories matter, that God is using them, even bringing them to His children right when they need them most.

    Prayers for healing and for your writing, that your journey will impact your storytelling and bring comfort and strength to others.

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    1. Welcome to Everyone's Story, Janet. I'm so glad you've stopped by to bring some cheer to Tanya--an encouraging word and glimpse of hope is never, ever late. May you be blessed with continued health.

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    2. Janet, I'm so glad you came by and for sharing. I needed to hear your words. And yes, God is indeed using your stories to touch others in ways you may never know. I'm thankful I can be an encouragement for you as your visit has been for me. Thank you!

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  19. This past week with the lovely Tanya Eavenson has been one blessing after another for me and my inkling is that it's the same for many kindred spirits who have visited. Tanya, thanks for guesting on Everyone's Story and sparkling in God's radiance as an example of strength in Him. May you be blessed with returned health, joy, and strength.

    Thanks to for the wonderful book giveaway of your novel UNCONDITIONAL. The winner is…

    Janet Dean. Yea! Happy reading, Janet! Both Tanya and I will contact you in direct emails.

    May His love continue to bless you all.

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