I am delighted to announce the release of my second book, But Pain Crept In. 

As many of you know, my life took an unexpected turn in 2010 when a 30-year-old injury began to cause significant pain. My "jaw journey" became one of ever-increasing challenge as I sought to live above my circumstances in midst of excruciating pain, with losses mounting on every front.

But that isn't the whole story.

God gave hope in times of despair, strength when my body longed for relief, humor in dark days, and joy when it seemed ridiculous.

This book is an attempt to capture my story, God's story.

It is the longing of my heart that this book may, in even some small way, touch those living with chronic pain whether it be physical, emotional, spiritual or relational. I would so appreciate it if you would let others know about But Pain Crept In, particularly those suffering loss. My desire with this project has never been sales, but rather that this book find its way into the hands of those who need the kind of encouragement God gave me through the writing of others on similar sojourns. If cost is a factor, let me know. We'll work something out.

Copies of But Pain Crept In can be purchased on Amazon.ca, Amazon.com, at House of James in Abbotsford.

Thank you again for the love and support you continue to show me and my family.

With love and gratitude,
Shelaine

We're not big on roasting chestnuts.

Jack Frost is at work as temperatures drop below zero, a nose-nipping cold for us west-coasters.

This evening we'll hear the choirs singing carols and bundle up to keep warm.

One tiny tot - and several adults - with eyes aglow may find it hard to sleep tonight.

Tomorrow will be turkey and trimmings and family together. Much joy, laughter and love.

But as the angel of the Lord announced so many years ago, there's more, much more to celebrate...

“Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord." Luke 2: 10-11

As you contemplate Christmas and it's true meaning - the birth of Jesus - may the peace of God rest in your hearts and minds.

​Merry Christmas!

With love and gratitude,
Shelaine

I first encountered the phrase, “hurry up and wait” twelve years ago when our family visited friends in Indonesia. Getting ten of us – four adults and six kids – out the door to the airport required many, “let’s go, let’s go” urgings. We’d pile bodies and luggage in the van and race off to our next flight.

Invariably, the plane wasn’t there. Apparently departure times were a whimsical hope, not a scheduled expectation. So, we waited.

This past couple of weeks have reminded me of Indonesia travels.

A call for proposals demands immediate attention. Write the material. Proof read. Submit. Wait for the outcome. Purchase gifts, wrap, and anticipate the giving. Buy a ticket to Manitoba at the 11th hour of WestJet’s sale and count sleeps before seeing my parents for a quick weekend visit.

Push hard to finish all the changes on my new book. Order the proof. Edit again. Asks fresh eyes to read the hard copy. Submit changes and wait, hopeful the book will arrive before Christmas.

It won’t.

At least not according the shipping promises. If all goes as planned, But Pain Crept In should be available for purchase December 26th. Yes, the day after Christmas.

I have mixed feelings.

The self-imposed deadline certainly provided the final prodding I needed to complete this project. It seemed a reasonable, even attainable goal, and done feels great. The hurry up is over.

And now, more waiting.

I’ve had some practice cultivating patience so that part isn’t too uncomfortable. And living with open hands, leaving the outcome up to God, is a familiar theme I’m often reminded to practice. So what’s the niggling inner mix?

It seems there’s a little competitive spirit lurking within that can’t let go of the, “just maybe it will arrive ahead of schedule!” Of course my rational side counters quickly with, “Seriously? You think a parcel will show up early in December?” The optimist and realist continue to battle it out.

And I’m reminded that it’s really a small deal in the scope of life. And that it’s really not my book anyway. It’s God’s story and it will be told in His timing. So, I’ll expend my energies on other matters in mean time.

But… if it does land on my doorstep prior to the 26th, you’ll be the first to know. :)

With love and gratitude,
Shelaine