Today fellow Michigander, Jody Hedlund, takes a break from writing, teaching children, and fighting sock monsters to celebrate her birthday with us!
Jody is a debut historical romance novelist, a double finalist in the 2009 ACFW Genesis Contest in Historical Romance. I found an empty shelf at our local Gift and Bible where The Preacher’s Bride should have been.
I’m excited to welcome Jody as she tells us a little about herself in this One-Word/One-Line interview.
And, if you join today’s party in the comments section, you will be entered in the drawing for a free autographed copy of her book. And if you comment on yesterday’s post as well, you’ll have two chances to win.
And now. Here’s Jody!
Jody Hedlund in One Word
1. What is your favorite flavor birthday cake? (Make mine chocolate.)
Fudge.
2. We’re going out to celebrate your birthday. Will you choose an appetizer or dessert with your meal deal?
Dessert.
3. Would you prefer a practical or impractical gift for your birthday?
Impractical.
4. Would you prefer a quiet birthday celebration or a big bash?
Quiet.
5. If you had been born in another month, which month would you prefer?
October.
6. Your husband just bought a bouquet of your favorite flowers for your birthday? What did he buy?
Wildflowers.
7. You and your family are going on an outing to celebrate your birthday. Will you go to Bronners, Greenfield Village, Dow Gardens, or bowling and pizza?
Village.
8. William Cullen Bryant, King Edward V, Ken Berry, and Shirley Chisholm were all born on November 3. Which one will you invite to your party?
Edward.
9. Would you like a surprise party or would you prefer to know the plan?
Know.
10. I want to give you a furry pet for your birthday. What would you like?
Kitten.
Jody Hedlund in One Line
1. What was your most memorable birthday gift?
My twin daughters delivering me “breakfast” in bed, consisting of a tray of chocolates and coffee.
2. What would John Costin say is your greatest strength?
My determination to keep going against adversity.
3. What do you like most about being your age?
Having a little bit of wisdom that’s come from life experiences, but still having more to learn.
4. What do you miss most about your childhood?
Reading and writing for endless hours.
5. Who is your favorite classic devotional writer (not including John Bunyan)?
One of my favorites is Jeanne Guyon (1648-1717) who wrote Experiencing the Depths of Jesus Christ, a book about prayer.
6. If you could have been born at any other period in history, when would it be and why?
I’m actually quite satisfied with modern times and prefer to live out the past through my stories!
7. What would Elizabeth say is your greatest weakness?
I struggle like John to keep a balance with ministry and family life.
8. Mary often saw things that other didn’t even though she was very young and blind. If you spent a day with her, what birthday advice might she give you?
Your children want YOU and not anything you can give them.
9. What is your favorite book in the Bible and why?
Philippians–because I’m currently memorizing it with my children, and it reminds me to live humbly.
10. What is your first childhood memory (that you can share)?
Snuggling on the couch and listening to my mom read aloud.
Jody Hedlund on One Thing
What one thing would you like to say to your readers or future readers?
I love connecting with readers! Please take a moment to say hi to me either on Twitter or on my Author Facebook Page! I’ve realized that making readers happy is really fun and fulfilling to a writer. So if you have the chance to read my book, let me know what you think!
What one thing would you like to say to your fellow writers or aspiring writers?
Writing is like any other profession. We can’t succeed unless we achieve mastery of the subject. And how does one achieve writing mastery? We need to learn everything we can about the craft of writing and then put it into practice. In other words, learn, learn, learn. Write, write, write. Repeat ad infinitum.
Thanks Jody, for sharing with us today–and HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
Jody on Facebook
Jody on Twitter.
Go here to read an excerpt, download a discussion guide and listen to an audio interview.
If you comment on today’s post, I will enter you in the drawing for a free autographed copy of The Preacher’s Bride. If you take a moment to read yesterday’s book review and comment, I will enter you twice.
There is no need to leave your email address as I can see it on the administrator’s side.
Melinda says
Since the author likes quiet birthdays, I’ll whisper “happy birthday, Jody”.
I really enjoyed this interview. Thanks for sharing it.
Jody is the first person that I have ever known who shares my favorite classic writer/book. Yay! I like her already!When we lived in MI, we’d travel all the way to Canada to get Madame Guyon books.
I look forward to finding her over on FB & Twitter.
Sandra says
Oh, how cool is this? I see you two have connected. Now you’ve both got me wanting to read more of Guyon. I thought I had a little book here, but it must be my imagination.
Melissa Campbell says
I too, am a quiet, contemplative and M. Guyon fan.
Thanks, Sandra, for giving us a glimpse of, and Jody, for sharing, her book and her story.
Birthday blessings. 🙂
Sandra says
Look, we have a Guyon Fan Club! 😀
Jody Hedlund says
This was a REALLY fun interview, Sandy!! Thank you for giving me the chance to appear 2 days on your blog! You’re wonderful! (And not just because you live in Michigan!)
Sandra says
Awww (scuffing toe in dirt.)
I’m delighted to have you here any time! Now hurry up with the next book.
Carol Garvin says
A happy, happy birthday, Jody! May God continue to shower you with blessings in the coming year.
Sandra says
I love me a good party!
Helen says
Happy Birthday.
I like fudge, but prefer carnations.
Sandra says
Lilacs, please. 😉
Kim says
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!
It was so great learning more about you, Jody!!
I definitely have to agree you on missing the endless reading and writing that can be done as a kid! 🙂
God bless!
Kim
(oh, I also commented on yesterday’s review)
laura says
Happy birthday to Jody! She sounds like my kind of gal. Thanks for introducing her to us, Sandra–especially in this fun way 🙂
Susan J. Reinhardt says
Hi Sandy & Jody –
Great interview! I liked the way you asked what John or Elizabeth would say about Jody. 🙂
I’ve already read and reviewed The Preacher’s Bride, so don’t enter me in the drawing.
Blessings,
Susan