After pouring over hundreds of adorable entries into this contest, Karen selected 10 winners at random.

Congratulations to the following winners...

(1) Elizabeth, Lynden, WA
(2) Abbie, Norwood, NY
(3) Sydney, Marble Hill, MO
(4) Dixie, Spindale, NC
(5) Madison, Deville, LA
(6) Laura, Vancouver, WA
(7) Elyssa, Indianapolis, IN
(8) Sarah, Ann Arbor, MI
(9) Shannon, Lynden, WA
(10) Sara, Dublin, CA

These 10 winners each received an autographed copy of The Princess and the Three Knights.

Thank you to the thousands of you who entered this contest. Karen chose 5 winners among these entries.

Congratulations to the following winners...

1. Melinda Clingerman, Valley Mills, Texas
2. Crystal Martin, Hoover, Alabama
3. Thelma Michalek, Little Rock, Arkansas
4. Barb Richardson, Portland, Oregon
5. Gina Long, Wesley Chapel, Florida

These 5 winners will each receive autographed copies of Karen's novels Take One and Take Two.

Thank you to everyone who participated in this contest. Karen received hundreds of entries and selected 10 winners randomly among the correct entries. Each of these 10 winners will receive an autographed copy of Karen's novel, Between Sundays.

Congratulations to the following winners from Karen's Take Two Trivia Contest.

(1) Patty Romack, Aurora, IL
(2) Julie Marsh, Port Angeles, WA
(3) Verna Guenther, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
(4) Caroline Carpenter, Savannah, GA
(5) Christa Story, Hillard, FL
(6) Melody Okke, Hawley, MN
(7) Katie Harvard, Laceyville, PA
(8) Julie DeConcini, Glen Carbon, IL
(9) Halle Lawrence, Winter Haven, FL
(10) Leah Brisendine, Calhoun, GA

2009 Take Two Trivia Questions and Answers

Thank you to those of you that submitted a video of how Karen's novels have touched your lives.

You can watch these and other great youtube clips on line right now!

Congratulations to the following winners. These winners will each receive an autographed copy of Karen's first novel, Where Yesterday Lives.

1. Sarah Lewis
2. Molly Edwards
3. Stephanie Kirk
4. Rachael Barkan
5. Melissa Scolman

    The winner of the Share-A-Book contest for 2009 is Lauren Brechtel from Hamburg, New York. Lauren was chosen among thousands of entries. Lauren shares her Karen Kingsbury novels with many friends and family, but mainly with her mom, Joan. Thank you Lauren for entering this amazing contest!

      Lauren and her mom Joan flew out to the west coast to spend the day with Karen and family. They joined the family on a small island near Seattle, Washington for an all day fun in the sun baseball tournament for Karen's youngest son, Austin's Little League team.
      Lots of smile, hugs, photos and good times were had by all! The day came to an end after reservations for 60 at the local Applebees. Our team won their game and everyone celebrated together. It was so wonderful getting to know Joan and Lauren. Karen continues to be amazed at the awesome things God is doing through her books!

Here is Lauren's Winning Entry

    Last February we began a program for schools across the country where librarians simply needed to write me a letter on school letterhead if they were interested in receiving a free book from me. We've received thousands of requests and are humbled by this opportunity.
    My office staff sent each one of these schools a free, hardback edition of Between Sundays. The thought of teens finding my book in a school library - and maybe growing closer to God and to their families in the process - is something that moves me to joyful tears.

Additionally, each school that sent us a letter was then entered into a contest to receive more books. Recently, my staff and I randomly selected 10 winners to each receive an additional 10 books for their school's library.

Congratulations to the following winners....

1. Annapolis Area Christian School - Severn, Maryland
2. Bald Knob High School - Bald Knob, Arkansas
3. Blacksburg High School - Blacksburg, South Carolina
4. Calvary Christian Academy - Wayne, New Jersey
5. Danville High School - Danville, Alabama
6. Davidsville Christian School - Johnstown, Pennsylvania
7. Greer High School - Greer, South Carolina
8. Jackson Heights High School - Holton, Kansas
9. Knightdale High School - Knightdale, North Carolina
10. Liberal High School - Liberal, Missouri

Congratulations to Kathy Butler of Corning, Arkansas
Kathy correctly answered all six Take One trivia questions and was selected randomly from hundreds of correct entries as the winner in this contest. Here are Kathy's answers below...

1. Bailey chose a song from what musical for her audition to be in Indiana University's Scrooge? Answer: The musical was Last Five Years

2. What's the name of the movie Keith Ellison and Chase Ryan produced? Answer: The Last Letter

3. What food item did movie star Rita Reynolds demand so she would stay on the movie? Answer: Wild Alaskan Sockeye Salmon (preferably with broccoli)

4. What emotional event happened to Cody at halftime when he returned to Clear Creek High for the homecoming game? Answer: He was remembering back to when he stood in that same place there as the football hero; when the announcer gave a shout-out special welcome to Cody for returning from fighting for our freedoms. The crowd stood and cheered and shouted and clapping for Cody. They appreciated him. He stood there like before in school and listened to his fans applause as they cheered on Cody football star and American Hero. Also, it was very emotional for Cody to be looking for Bailey wanting to talk to her and share his experience, but he saw her with Tim in the stands and walked away.

5. What did Cole think his Grandpa John Baxter said when he said "immediate family" at the Baxter family dinner? Answer: Cole thought he said "intermediate" and asked what that was.

6. What TV show interviewed Chase Ryan toward the end of Take One? Answer: Entertainment Tonight

Kathy will be receiving a 15-book library of my books - the entire Baxter series and Take One, along with a signed Karen Kingsbury Tote Bag.

Congratulation again to Kathy and thank you to all of you who participated in this fun contest!

2009 Winners
September, 2009 - Stephen M., Battle Ground, WA
August, 2009 - Lily H., Fairview, MT
July, 2009 - Bonnie C., Chicago, IL
June, 2009 - Holly Johnson, Kerrville, TX
May, 2009 - Emily S., Portland, OR
April, 2009 - Patricia B., Fort Wayne, IN
March, 2009 - Aletha M., Detroit, Michigan
February, 2009 - Blanche Poirier, Brusly, LA
January, 2009 - Allysa McClay, Forest, VA

2008 Winners
December, 2008 - Pattie Odara, San Diego, CA
November, 2008 - Carol Hoefs, Tucker, GA
October, 2008 - Kendra Young, Lexington, KY

Thank you to all of you who participated in this fun contest. Zondervan chose one grand prize winner among the hundreds of entries we received. CONGRATULATIONS to Rachel Sides for her winning entry.

1. What is the name of Alex's dog? Bo

2. What is the first and last name of Alex's first love? Holly Brooks

3. What is the name of the housing development that Alex was most concerned about for arson risk? Oak Creek Canyon

    Some call me her stalker; however, I believe I’m Karen Kingsbury’s No. 1 fan. Karen signed a book To: Rachel my biggest fan, which may be a weight category distinction (like heavy weight in boxing). Is that the same as No. 1 fan? I assume everyone plans vacations around Karen’s speaking events and is willing to drive 10 hours to see her. During 2006 and 2007 I totaled 21 hours in a car to see Karen at 4 separate events. (Since she didn’t offer to take me home with her, I had 21 hours to get back home.) I’ve driven 20 miles on ice to get to my nearest book seller only to find Karen’s latest wasn’t on the shelf yet. After the third trip, I drove 2 ½ hours to a bookstore in Amarillo, TX. (But who wouldn’t?)

    I’ve bought multiple copies of many of Karen’s books because I collect them to have autographed as well as share them with my friends. Once I broke into someone’s house to share Karen’s books. (My friend Mary wanted to borrow the books. It wasn’t a random crime.) Since I have Karen’s website as my homepage, I visit several times a day. I’ve been known to email Tricia with a correction or to mail Karen a silly gift. I have email friends that I met on Karen’s guestbook.

    Am I an obsessed fan? Perhaps. Yet, Karen Kingsbury is my John the Baptist and I’m her disciple. She isn’t ‘the way’, but she points me to ‘the way’. Her stories and characters are like one crying in the wilderness, preparing the way of the Lord. I don’t have a life changing story, but my cup which was overflowing is now filled with something richer and sweeter because of Karen Kingsbury.

-Rachel Sides

Zondervan also selected 100 runner up winners that will each receive an autographed copy of Every Now and Then.

Thank you again to every one who participated in this fun contest!!!

    We received hundreds and hundreds of entries to this year's contest. After much prayer and heartfelt consideration, and after eliminating those entries whose stories did not fit the 200-word limit, we have chosen the following two entries, which tied for the Grand Prize. Both winners and their guests will join Karen on the upcoming Girls Getaway Cruise.

Thank you for all your entries. Please consider entering again next year.

Also congratulations to the more than 20 finalists who will receive a signed copy of Every Now and Then. We will post that list on Friday, Nov. 14.

Here are the winners and their winning entries:


Jeannine Huffman - San Diego, CA
(bringing her mother)

    My husband, a strong Christian, moved us and our three-year-old from Washington State to California to be closer to my parents so we could develop a stronger Christian-based relationship with them.
    Four months later, my husband was taken into the ER for what he believed was the flu. After being at the ER for an hour with my son I was given the news that my husband had gone into a coma as a result of a brain hemorrhage and acute leukemia M3. My husband passed away that evening with my immediate family in the room. I was 11 weeks shy of having our second son at the young age of 31.
    During the grief period, I searched for a Christian writer who would lift my spirits and you did that for me. The first series books I read hit home. They were Forever Faithful and the 911 Series. I could relate to Hannah and Jamie and at the same time see the hope they both had.
    I am at peace with losing my husband because I have a solid relationship with Jesus Christ. I live for my sons and they bring me joy everyday.


Taylor Poor, Forsyth, MO
(bringing her mother)

    In the spring of 2007, life as I had known it completely changed. There had been two things that were most important to me; God and sports! As an eighth grader I was devastated to learn that my track season would end early due to a necessary surgery for Popliteal Arterial Entrapment Syndrome. During the process, they operated on the wrong leg.
    Just as I was starting physical therapy and beginning to walk again, we found out that the surgeries caused a chronic condition called Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy. People with this condition live with pain their whole life. Right now, I have pain in my legs every day, all day, and sometimes it spreads to my arms. Because of this I may never play sports again.
    During one of the hardest times, my mom talked me into reading your book, Between Sundays. This book taught me nothing is too hard to overcome. I identified with the foster kids in the book, because they were trying to cope with losses in their lives, just like me. I know that with God’s help I can overcome any obstacle, and that all that really matters is how I live my life between Sundays.

2008 Make Karen Cry Contest Runner Ups

Thank you to all of you that entered this contest. Karen and her staff read through each and every entry and went through many boxes of tissues.
The following entries were selected based on 200 words or less and how many tears fell while reading them!

RUNNER UPS

Dana Ten Hulzen, Jacksonville, FL

    My mother, Sharon Toth, is one of many angels placed on this earth. For over twenty years, she has served Harbor House, a faith-filled residential community for adults with developmental disabilities. Harbor House was founded by Catholics as a sanctuary for people of all faiths.
    For Sharon, this is not a 40-hour work week—it is a life vocation. She has resided in the house to assist the core members. One of my favorite stories is of Jeffrey, a core member she helped find a job bagging groceries. He was so proud of his new job. And despite Jeffrey’s meager earnings, he tithed every week in the offering plate. That is selflessness. And that is what Sharon has taught to the many lives she has touched along the way.
    There have been times when Sharon was offered a raise by her employers, yet she turned it down, saying she shouldn’t make any more money than the assistants as they were all working together for a common goal: they strive to see Christ in each person and to be a sign of hope. She is a Christ-filled woman who would surely benefit from taking a conference with you.

Amanda Burris, Tidioute, PA

    My names Amanda, I'm 15 years old. Last Sunday our church had a baptism ceremony and each person who got baptized had a chance to share a testimony when they became a Christian and excepted Christ to come into their heart. As I watched this, it got me thinking. When did I truly except Christ into my heart? And I remembered right after I finished Ever After, I put the book down and asked Christ into my heart.
I've been raised in a Christian home, but ever since then I know I’ve been a true Christian, that God came into my heart that day and is there to stay. If I was to win this contest, I would take my grandmother because, really, she's the one who led me to Karen’s books, which led me to God. Now, every time I’m feeling scared or something terrible happens in the world, I pray, just like the people in Karen's books do and I just feel the biggest peace, I know that it was all Gods doing. That he's always there, even when it doesn't feel like it.
So, Karen, thank you for helping me find Christ through your amazing books.

Marilyn Martin, New Holland, PA

    I sent my only daughter out the door to high school this morning with a whispered prayer and a hug. Each day I realize that my days with her as her primary influence are decreasing. I ask myself.....Have I done enough? Will she be wise enough to sort the wheat from the chaff of my parenting skills over the many years as I walked and continue to walk that fine line between parent and friend? Who am I to have been entrusted with this innocent soul? Today, I looked back over some of her many baby pictures and I see the progression of age from that endearing little, chubby, baby face to a beautiful, grown up, high schooler. Where has the time gone? I would love to win this cruise and take my daughter (if the Lord wills it) as a symbol of the two of us beginning to steer a course for her personal journey from being a child to entering womanhood.
    I’m just a mom who wants to spend some quality time with her daughter “this side of heaven.”

Darlene Schacht, Winnipeg, Manitoba CANADA

    It started at the mall—that moment I knew I was born to be your mom and that you belonged to me. Dad and I had decided to shop our separate ways—his, the hardware department; mine, the pharmacy, where I scraped $14.25 together, so I could tinkle on a wand.
    20 minutes later, with new purchase in hand I watched, while the image of a plus sign announced your existence.
    I had the kind of smile a kid gets when Grandpa lets them keep the puppy he found. It was a good smile—a very good smile.
    December 25, 1996 was the day to celebrate our God who—clothed in mere humanity—had come to be with us. It was also the day that you, my little one—merely clothed by the flesh of my womb—had gone to be with Him.
    I’m grateful to Karen Kingsbury who, through books like Summer has given me hope. I hope to thank her some day for showing me that your God-given life is a treasure I hold, while reminding me that one day—one marvelous day—I’ll embrace you again.
    Your days, though they were few, hold great purpose.

Diana Ruiz, Midway City, CA

    I lost my son John on September 6, 1986. He was 24 years old. Two years later, on September 16, 1988, I lost my precious baby Bryan, who was only 4 years old. Through each loss, my dearest friend, Ann, was there for me.
    She organized food after each memorial service, and was a quiet support for me during the dark days. Ann has many health issues but you will never hear a complaint from her mouth. She looks at each day as a marvelous gift from God.
    Then another horrible event took place in our lives just 3 years later. Ann's son, David, was taken from her suddenly at the age of 27. Now it was my turn to give Ann my loving support.
    Through the years we have cried together, prayed together and held each other up when everyone else had forgotten our grief. It would be such an honor to recognize the beauty of Ann's soul in winning this cruise. Please help me honor and thank my beautiful friend, Ann Schoolar. I would be eternally grateful for this opportunity. I love her to the moon and back.

Christine Wories, Dyer, IN

    Holding hands, we bravely faced the truth. We needed to walk through Grandma’s house for the first time since the paramedics called, shattering our sleep and world. I attempted to be the brave daughter for a mother whose best friend and role model would never again comfort, encourage, and embrace her. The day we had feared, came without warning as a heart attack took Grandma instantly into glory.
    Holding hands, we bravely faced the truth. The septicemia coursing through Dad’s body was shutting organs down one-by-one. “He won’t make it through the night; call your family together,” the doctors said. Waking up four days later, we praised the God of Life for allowing Dad to continue his.
    Holding hands, we bravely faced the truth. I explained between gasping sobs that the baby I had carried deep inside me would only be carried in my heart from that point on. Leaving for the hospital, Mom held me knowing this time she couldn’t take the pain away.
    Holding hands, we look to the future, knowing that our love and friendship is one of God’s greatest gifts.   A spiritually-renewing trip would celebrate everything we have made it through, while strengthening us for tomorrow.

Lisa and Alyssa Calhoun, St. Peters, MO

    I would love to go on this cruise with my 15-year old daughter, Alyssa. She and I really want to go but can't afford it. We are in the midst of my son's senior year, the beginning stages of adoption paperwork, and we are trying to move to find a house with an in-law suite so that we can move my parents into it. The stress of all these things has added to my desire as a mom to get away with her and spend some time with my precious daughter. We talked about the possibility of saving somehow but my daughter said that she would rather save the money toward adoption. Since we are a one income family( I home-school my kids), we just can't do it all.
    Every year she has read about the Brio cruise in her magazine. This year when we read that you will be there and Robin Jones Gunn too, it was hard to decide that we couldn't go because you are our favorite authors! That is our story and I pray that God will bless you and your family. You have certainly blessed me through the years with your writing.

Shelly Tilley, Woodworth, LA

    First off, your books have changed my life. I would love to take a cruise with my first cousin and best friend, Susie. She is an inspiration to me. Susie has Fibromyalgia, MS and something called Dercum's Disease. I have all but the MS. She is raising two boys and doing a great job being there for them and raising them into young gentlemen. She needs a break very badly. She does absolutely nothing for herself and really needs the rest. She does all the housework and cooking and all from a walker. She is only 39 and has been in constant pain since she is in her mid-twenties. She's a great wife and mother and I think she deserves a girl's getaway. I think she needs it. She never complains a bit. Her boys and husband have no idea how much she hurts. We talk on the phone almost every day, because we can connect and we both know how the other is feeling. The Dercum's is a very painful disease that we will always have to live with. And of course, there is no cure for MS, but she does really well with it.

Mellita Beauchamp, Oak Hill, FL

    Every one needs an escape every now and then. We feel we deserve a temporary release from our stressful lives. No one deserves it more than a police dispatcher. We have taken on other’s troubles double fold. During an intense 12-hour workday, we attempt to sneak a moment to sooth our anxieties. However, that moment is interrupted with the next intense 911 calls; A hysterical carjack victim who was snatched from her vehicle as she watched the thief toss her toddler from the car seat, or an 18 year old that desires to take her life, and an officer down that need assistance because he was deliberately knocked down by a criminal’s vehicle. My temporary escape can be found on my lunch break as I pull out my Karen Kingsbury novel. In it, I expect to read about hope in a confused life, forgiveness as a character struggles with an unforgivable act. These novels offer the momentary peace I desire. I return to the Communications center to one of the busiest police radios, and hope that God can keep me composed, and our officer’s safe.

Brandi Palmer, Camilla, GA

    My mother and I have a shared love, any novel with the name Karen Kingsbury on it. The Baxter novels are our favorites and we own at least one copy of each novel. We found the novels soon after I left home to go to college, and they helped to bring us closer together and closer to the Lord. My younger sister started college this fall and she has never had the love of reading that my mom and I share. I know it’s hard on my mom because her last “baby” has left home and she has more worries about Brittney than she did with me. Since she left home my mom and Brittney’s relationship has been severely tested, I would love for them to go on this trip and have a chance to talk and at least repair if not strengthen their relationship. I had written an entry for my mother and myself but I deleted it and chose instead to nominate my mom and Brittney. I have a feeling that this trip is all they need to find their common ground, heal their hearts, and repair they relationship. Thank you for what you do and God bless!

Sharon Gorjup, Mentor on the Lake, Ohio

    I always thought I was an only child. At least I grew up with no brothers or sisters that I knew of. My mom was divorced & re-married when I was three. Well, several years ago I decided to try to track down my real dad. I learned he passed away a couple of years before I tried to
find him. I got a copy of his death certificate & it listed his wife's name on it. I found out I had a brother & sister. My sister & I got together 3 times since I found her, which was 9 years ago. It is always one thing or another cropping up to keep us apart along with
living 800 miles apart. I have always said that I would love to be able to afford to go somewhere alone with my sister, just to be able to spend one on one time with her, seeing as
we missed out on growing up together & not having the benefit of "bonding" like normal sisters. I would love to have a "get away" with her that I could never have any other way. Please consider us for this get-together.

Kim Payne, Rustburg, VA

    On 4/14/08, Beth's 14- month old daughter Meredith died from Medullablastoma, a malignant brain tumor. One month before Meredith died Beth gave birth to a son, Tyler. And then, two months after Meredith died, Beth’s husband asked for a divorce. Beth, at the age of 32, reminds me of Job. Through all of her "tragedies" she continues to praise God!!!    Her smile masks a pain that no one knows about, only the One Who is able to walk with her through this valley.
    Oh how Beth wishes that Meredith was here, but she knows Mer is in heaven being held by Jesus. I can envision Him holding Beth as she struggles daily. I know God is the reason that Beth has made it thus far. He is the only One we can trust and the only One that will carry us through the great tragedies we face and the trials we endure. Redemption will come, He has promised us that.
    I believe winning this contest would be such an amazing gift as I could offer Beth a respite from all she’s enduring and give to her what she has given to me, hope and inspiration.

Valerie Hughes, Piedmont, CA

    I am writing for myself and my sister. My oldest son has cerebral palsy and is in a wheel chair. In 2006, he started having seizures and was hospitalized for weeks.
    During that time, our dad was diagnosed with cancer. Since he and our mother have been divorced, Carla and I were his primary caretakers. He was a veteran with no other
insurance, so we had to drive two hours one way for treatments for months.
    During his treatments, my youngest son had a car wreck and the lady he hit was killed. Sadly, our dad passed away in February 2007. Within 5 weeks of his death, both of our husbands grandmothers passed away whom we had also been helping with.
    Last year my oldest son had two major seizures and was in the hospital for 2 months,
then sent home on a feeding tube and with a catheter. He is 21 and the size of a grown man and can be difficult to handle.
    We both went from full time to part time work to be able to help everyone. WE love our family but would love to take a break for a few days.

Mellita Beauchamp, Oak Hill, FL

    Every one needs an escape every now and then. We feel we deserve a temporary release from our stressful lives. No one deserves it more than a police dispatcher. We have taken on other’s troubles double fold. During an intense 12-hour workday, we attempt to sneak a moment to sooth our anxieties. However, that moment is interrupted with the next intense 911 calls; A hysterical carjack victim who was snatched from her vehicle as she watched the thief toss her toddler from the car seat, or an 18 year old that desires to take her life, and an officer down that need assistance because he was deliberately knocked down by a criminal’s vehicle.
    My temporary escape can be found on my lunch break as I pull out my Karen Kingsbury novel. In it, I expect to read about hope in a confused life, forgiveness as a character struggles with an unforgivable act. These novels offer the momentary peace I desire. I return to the Communications center to one of the busiest police radios, and hope that God can keep me composed, and our officer’s safe.

Susan Larson, Janesville, Wisconsin

    I would love to take my daughter, Lindsey, on this cruise. She is in her third year at college. She is the one who hooked me on your books. We have read everyone. We are still on the waiting list at the library for Sunset. We can't wait. She also read Brio and Brio and Beyond for years. They were her favorite magazines. She has worked so hard these past two years. She also has an internship she works at two days a week. She also has been on the Dean's list every semester. We are so proud of her loving God the way she does on a public campus. She's not afraid to show it and live it. She has always been in the Inter varsity Christian Club on campus. This year she is the coordinator for all the speakers. It can be a challenge to find enough for every week of the school year. Next year she wants to be president. She has also been a bible study leader for the freshmen. This would be a wonderful break for her and of course her dream to meet you. Please consider us for this cruise.

Brooke Beneventi, Queen Street Stockton, Illinios

    Hello I'm Brooke. I'm writing this to basically nominate my mom for this cruise. She hasn't taken a break since I was born or maybe before that, and let me tell you that that is a long time. She is a single parent mom who has raised three girls. She takes college classes online because she doesn't want to leave us girls by our selves.
    She also takes in any kid that shows up on her door step that needs a place to hang. If they need to eat my mom will invite them to the dinner table. Sometimes we have six to ten kids at the dinner table. Two years ago she thought of the idea of a youth center for our small town.
    You may think that small towns are just so cute and there is no crime there but you would be surprised. Just last summer I got punched in the eye by a girl at the pool. I'm not saying that she wants the cruise I'm saying she almost needs the cruise. That's why my mom deserves the cruise.

Kensleigh Baker, Pound, Virginia

    My mother and I, are big fans of your books. Every time we go somewhere, we have to have one. I have read all but about five of them. You inspire me so much. I get so into your books that i find myself crying, laughing, and i even find myself praying for them at time. My story comes from your book Rejoice.
    My mom had my little brother last year. She had just finished reading Rejoice. My brother was born with many things wrong with him. They first diagnosed him with AGC, his feet was all the wa turned in and up to his chest. He has an extra thumb, and his lower spine is dislocated. We have been already been to Texas and Shriners. He also has something wrong with his bladder. He has had 2 surgery's with many more to come.
    We just recently started to catheterize him. We go to Knoxville ever other week for him to get casts to prepare him for feet surgery. The doctors think he will never walk. Your book Rejoice encouraged us, The part when John bought the bike. Right now Ian army crawls and rolls to get where he wants.Everyday we look to God, and trust in him. We believe that he will walk, he has already touched many lives,and so have you. Thank you so much,your book really helped us.

Amy Yoder, Churchville, VA

    I want to win passage on the 2009 Cruise so my sister, Diane, and I can "get away" and refresh our souls with God. We've had quite a year in our family. Our dad died unexpectedly of heart failure on December 15th, 2007, which we've endured only because we know he's in Heaven with our Father God!
    I'm married to a pastor and we have four wonderful boys...ages 5, 3, 2 and 6 months...so "getting away" sounds WONDERFUL to me. I'm currently a stay-at-home mom who loves teaching our boys about life and God, but I know there is no way I could ever afford to go on a cruise.
    Diane's husband of 25 years walked out on her and their 7 children in July, 2008. She is praying faithfully for his return, but is coping with the responsibilities of their children alone for the most part. Her birthday is February 6th and I can think of no better present for her than for me to be able to take her on an all-expenses paid cruise! Plus, she lives in Indiana and I'm in Virginia, so what we wouldn't do for 5 days together relaxing!!

Magda Koster, Centurion, South Africa

    So I told my husband about the "Make Karen Cry Contest"....my five year old noted...."but mom, WHY would you like to make someone CRY? Aren't we suppose to be HAPPY? To LAUGH?" And then I realized....the little game we always play...."Name the things that make you happy....Things we can say THANK YOU for". Fact is, things could always be worst. You listen to someone else's "story" and then prefer to carry your own "little package". To sit down and look for those make-me-happy-things, can be a wonderful experience. We now realize that my parents will never get old, they will never suffer from cancer or lose their partner through death. We now realize that our little boy is an angel and through his short life - able to spare the families of two children...grieve and loss. He touched SO many people during his short time on earth.... OUR Angel!!!!! I thank GOD for the privilege to have known such wonderful people and that I had them in my life....even for a short time. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Lisa Landstreet, Vancleave, MS

For a lot of unimportant reasons, I am not close to my real mother, but God sent me one in the form of my mother-in-law. She has been through thick and thin with me, especially when Hurricane Katrina blew into our area - Vancleave, Mississippi. My husband, our two boys, and I lived with my mother-in-law during this disastrous time. Instead of claiming her damaged house for herself, she very generously let us claim it and receive the FEMA money for it. She wanted us to start our life anew after losing everything. She lacked concern for herself, even though nothing remained of her material possessions in the wake of this catastrophic storm. Although she is old enough to retire, she continues to work so she can help both her sons and their families with living expenses. We are blessed because we have never had to go without. This includes each magical Christmas, because in our eyes, she really is Santa Claus. We honestly would be lost without her. She fulfills us spiritually and emotionally, but she has no idea how healing she is.
But let me tell you this: Even if this email does not make you cry and we do not win the cruise, at least you will know that there are real angels that walk on this earth. And more importantly, maybe now I will have the courage to tell my mother-in-law how much she truly is loved and appreciated.

Due to a technical error with question #4, where there are two separate mentions throughout the 14 book Baxter Series, we are adding more winners to this contest. It has been brought to our attention that throughout the storyline, it mentions both Maddie and Cole could be the oldest Baxter grandchild. Because of this error, Karen has decided to give away 20 copies of her book, Every Now and Then.

These winners all listed Maddie as the oldest Baxter grandchild...

(1) Susan Schostag, Mary Esther, FL
(2) Shelly Armour, Sidney, MT
(3) Anne Roberts, Dandridge, TN
(4) Cynthia Waldner, S. Edmonton, Alberta Canada
(5) Fran Harris, Stedman, NC
(6) Becki Parsons, Milledgeville, GA
(7) Bobbie Hazlett, LaVerne, CA
(8) Daniele Davis, Virginia Beach, VA
(9) Michelle Tuller, Salida, CA
(10) Angela Borst, New Market, TN

These winners all listed Cole as the oldest Baxter grandchild...

(1) Terilynn Knezek, Roswell, GA
(2) Jenifer Gilley
(3) Donna Clouse
(4) Emilie Harrer
(5) Nicole Pratt, Friendswood, Texas
(6) Tamika Beattie
(7) Altheia Mason
(8) Goldie Cecil, Barberton, Ohio
(9) Cheri Geer, Hoschton, GA
(10) Sarah Carlson

Thank you to all of you who participated in this contest!

Baxter Family Trivia Questions and Answers

Here they are... the Baxter Family Trivia Questions & Answers. Here are the correct answers to these trivia questions. Ten winners, chosen randomly from among the correct entries, will receive a signed copy of Karen's upcoming novel – Every Now and Then, the third book in the 9-11 series. Winners will be published by MONDAY, November 3rd.

1. What book of the Baxter series inspired Karen Kingsbury’s children’s book Let Me Hold You Longer? Rejoice
2. What is the name of the nursing home where Ashley worked in Remember? Sunset Hills Adult Care Home
3. In which book did the Flanigan family first appear? Reunion
4. Who is the oldest Baxter grandchild? Maddie or Cole (due to a technical error)
5. Irvel was one of the patients Ashley cared for in the nursing home. What did Irvel always compliment Ashley on? Ashley's beautiful hair
6. Where did Dayne first see Katy? Dayne first saw Katy in Bloomington at the Christian Kids Theatre (CKT) during the production of Charlie Brown
7. What is the name of the reality show Dayne and Katy filmed together? For Real
8. How many members of the Baxter family are doctors? Three - John, Brooke and Peter
9. What is the name of Dayne’s friend from boarding school that led him to Christ? Bob Aher
10. What was Elizabeth’s middle name? Marie
11. What is the name of the lake in Bloomington where the Baxters often have family picnics? Lake Monroe
12. Where did Dayne propose to Katy? Christian Kids Theater in Bloomington
13. Which Baxter grandchild was born during a tornado? Devin, Ashley and Landon’s son
14. Who was the first Baxter sibling to learn that Dayne was the oldest Baxter child? Ashley
15. What does Luke do for a living? He is an attorney
16. From where did Luke and Reagan adopt Malin ? Beijing, China
17. What song did Dayne sing to Katy at their wedding? “(Everything I Do) I Do It For You” from Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves
18. Which Baxter grandchild has glasses? Tommy, son of Luke and Reagan
19. Which Baxter lived in Texas? Erin with her husband Sam and their four girls
20. What is the name of the crisis pregnancy center that Brooke, Kari, and Ashley open together? Sarah’s Door, named after Ashley and Landon’s daughter who died
21. From where did the Flanigans adopt three of their children? The Flanigans, like the Kingsbury’s, adopt three boys from Haiti
22. What keepsake did John give each of the Baxter children from Elizabeth? John gave each of his children copies of the letters their mother wrote and pictures of the family as a keepsake
23. What are the names of the Flanigans’ dogs? Mandy and Reggie, two yellow labs
24. What is Katy’s favorite hymn?“Great is Thy Faithfulness”
25. Where did John propose to Elaine? On the campus of Indiana University on the walking path

Congratulations to these 15 winners who will each receive a signed copy of Sunset, which releases September 23rd, 2008!!

This past weekend, Pete & Sonny Frank of Indiana were guests of Karen & Donald. Pete wrote in several months ago and wanted to surprise his wife for their 20th wedding anniversary, it was around this same time that Karen was reading hundreds of amazing entries in the Share-A-Book Contest. Pete told his story of sharing books with his wife as well as the amazing ministry he and his wife share with others. Karen chose them to be the winners and to come spend the day with Karen and her family. They went to one of Austin's baseball games and a play Tyler had the lead role in. Afterwards, they came back to the house for some tea and card games.

Baby Name Contest Winners

As I have traveled the country speaking at many wonderful events, I have met hundreds of you who have named your
children after characters in my books! Thank to all of you who entered this contest.

15 Winners

Each one will receive a signed copy of my newest children’s book, Let’s Go on a Mommy Date.
Congratulations to all these winners...

Bailey - Baxter Family

I am sorry I don't have a picture of my baby Bailey, but this precious little one of mine is in heaven. I had a miscarriage with Bailey in October. She was to be born this coming April. I picked the name Bailey because after reading all the Sunrise Series and Firstborn Series, Bailey Flanigan is everything I would have wanted my baby to be; trusting, honest, outgoing, smart, caring, and the number one thing, dedicated to God. But now she is being held in His loving arms.

Jacob Landon - Baxter Family

Jacob "Landon" Cureton was born on Dec. 26, 2006. He is named after our Senior Pastor Doug Jacobs who passed away in Feb of 2006 of cancer. He is also named after Landon Blake. Landon is such a strong character yet, so gentle and humble too! I named him after the character because I would love for my child to have the same characteristics of Landon Blake. Strong in faith, loving to all, always the strong one in crisis and yet still humble. I hope my Landon grows up to be the man I admired in the Baxter Series. -Thank you, Melissa Cureton

Brook Ashlynn - Baxter Family

I am so glad I have this opportunity to write. Your books have blessed me so much. So many tears and much laughter... I can't wait to get my hands on the next one. I have never read so many books with God so evident in them all. I really appreciate that about your writing. Thank you.
We named our second child, Brooke Ashlynn. I realized afterwards that her first name is from the book and her second name is very close to Ashley. Both members of the Baxter Family. So thank you!! She just turned 1 on January 28th. God bless you and please keep writing... -Kari Brobbel

Landyn - Baxter Family

My son Landyn has been such a joy. The reason for naming him after the Landon of the Redemption Series is simple. Landon loved the Lord and he loved Ashley with all his heart. I want my son to grow up and become a man of God like Landon. I also want him to respect and love someone as Landon loves Ashley. I have been so inspired by the Baxter family that there just wasn't any question about what to name my son. I only spelled it with a Y because my daughters name is Jazmyn. So I kind of stuck with the Y. Thank you so much for all the books that you have written that have touched my life and many others I am sure. -Love in Christ, Faith

Cole - Baxter Family

I became pregnant at seventeen and I struggled with the thought that I had disappointed my mom, who had me at a young age. The week after I found out, I stumbled upon a book in my mom's room. The book was Remember and I read the whole book in one night. Ashley Baxter's story really spoke to me because I could relate to her. I told my mom the news after reading Remember and she took me under her wing and eased the pain and helped me feel accepted, like Elizabeth did for Ashley. When I found out I was having a boy, I knew what I would name him. Cole Michael Hayes was born on September 26, 2006. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for writing such incredible and uplifting books!
Your fan and friend, Robyn Hayes

Landon Blake - Baxter Family

As I read the Firstborn Series, I was completely amazed with Landon Blake. Despite all of Ashley's wrong doings, he saw the goodness in her and never gave up. He was a fighter, not only for what he believed in, but also for God, his family, and himself. I chose the name Landon for my son because I wish for him to have all of the qualities of the character Landon: understanding, loving, funny, Christian ways and thoughts, a fighter, and a loving husband/father. I want my son to see people through God's eyes and not judge them for what they have done. I hope my son grows up to me as amazing as Landon Blake. We have even done his nursery in "firetrucks" to go along with the name since Landon is a firefighter. I love telling people the history behind my son's name, Landon. It is also a good way for me to let people know of the most wonderful books too!

Reagan Alexa - Baxter Family

My mom introduced me to your books in December, 2006. I was hooked immediately. I started with Oceans Apart. Then I began reading the Redemption Series. I loved the Baxter Family so much because I could relate to them so easily. I am from a family of 4 children. We lost our father to cancer when I was 2 years old. Due to our loss, we are all very close. I am kind of the Ashley of our family. As I was reading, I fell in love with the name Reagan. The more I read the more I liked the name and her character. I loved that she made a mistake but continued to trust in the Lord. I want my children to know that God can always forgive us whatever we may do. Also, that we as parents can forgive. I was shocked by the number of people who claim to be Christians that have abortions. I would never want my child to have an abortion because they were afraid to come to me. Thank you for writing your life changing fiction.
Sincerely, Kimberly Renee Dodson

Landon Cole - Baxter Family

Attached is a picture of our sweet little boy, Landon Cole. I am a huge fan and am so blessed by your books. I am especially fond of the Baxter family series which is where I first fell in love with both names (Landon & Cole). I feel like I know the Baxter family, and it is refreshing to read books that always have a great story and an underlying challenge to apply to my life. The characters are inspiring because they are ordinary people trying to serve God amidst the daily challenges in life. We pray for our son every day that he would become an honorable man of God who is full of love - much like Landon is in your books – and that he would find the zest in life and beauty in God’s creation – much like Cole does in his life.
Sincerely, Stacey Zimmerman

Landon - Baxter Family

Your books are an inspiration. We named our son after a character in the Baxter family, "Landon". Landon's character is represented as a strong, devoted, faithful, godly man. These are the qualities I pray our son will have as he grows. Although a fictional character, the love Landon shows towards his family, friends, and the God he serves is a love I pray our son will find one day. I have had Landon's name picked out since I read the "Redemption" series in high school. God has blessed us with a beautiful, healthy baby boy. Through your books, I am reminded that I am God's daughter and He is in control. God has a plan for Landon, and we put him in His hands.
With Love, Kristen Enderle
P.S. We are expecting again! If it's a girl, her name will be "Reagan"

Matthew - Waiting For Morning

My name is Michelle. I have a 3 month old son named Matthew Alexander. For a long time I was not able to carry a child to term. Matthew was my fifth pregnancy. I feared everyday that I would not be able to carry this child to term either. When I was 20 weeks along I started having contractions. I was in and out of the hospital until I gave birth to my 9 lb. 9oz son on November 12th. My struggle reminds me of the Baxter family and specifically Erin and how she was unable to have children. I wanted to give my son a strong biblical name and everyday I thank God that he is here with me. -Michelle

Bailey - Baxter Family

My daughter's name is Bailey, like the Flannigan's daughter, in the Baxter Family books. These books have given me so much in the past several years. What is funny is that at first I didn't even realize that I had chosen a name from one of your books, but that name kept coming back to me and now my daughter who will be one year old next week is the most beautiful gift from God that anyone could ask for and my own little miracle baby. Bailey is an inspirational character because she is a teenager that faced the normal troubles any teenager faces but she finds ways to face these obstacles with God’s help and guidance. I love to see what Bailey Flannigan is up to next and hope that my daughter will be able to face her obstacles just like the family’s in the Baxter books do.

Abigail - When Joy Came To Stay

I named my baby girl Abigail. Here is how I came up with the name. My pregnancy was similar to the character of Maggie in “When Joy Came To Stay”. About a week before my baby was born, it was decided that she would come home with us. The definition of Abigail is “a source of joy”. I named my baby girl after little Amanda Joy. Her middle name is Elaine. I think that name is really pretty.

Landon - Baxter Family

Well here is how I got Landon Paul Kennon's name? My best friend had told me about your book and told me I needed to read it. So I said sure let me borrow one of yours and she did. Well I started the Baxter family series and I just loved it. And still do! When I got to reading about Landon I decided that was the name that I was going to use for my little guy. My best friend and I where both expecting and we didn't know what we where having yet. So I called my friend and said I have my baby name and I told her that she couldn't have this name if she had a boy. She said well I am the one that turned you on to reading Karen's books. I said oh well I got the name first. We both laughed! She had a girl so I didn't have to worry about it.

Paige Elizabeth - Baxter Family

Meet Paige Elizabeth. When I was pregnant, I spent several weeks on bedrest. The only thing that kept me sane was the Baxter saga which I read through in record time. We knew we would name our baby Paige but hadn't come up with a middle name. As I read Reunion and cried the entire way through, I knew this family had made an impact on me. We named our daughter Paige Elizabeth as a reminder to myself of what kind of family I wanted to raise and to honor even though fictional, a great mother. The Baxter's have made a huge impact on my life and everytime I drive through Bloomington, IN, I feel like I should stop and visit. My family makes fun of me for commenting each time we drive by. Paige Elizabeth has been a blessing to my life and I pray will be a blessing to the world.

Ali - A Thousand Tomorrows

My daughter Ali was named after Ali in A Thousand Tomorrows. This book came out when I was pregnant, and as a self-proclaimed Karen Kingsbury addict I had to read it. I was so inspired by Ali's courage and strength. She loved
life and constantly put others before herself. During that time I was having all the custom prenatal screenings. At one point I thought how devastated I would be if my daughter were born with a disability. A Thousand Tomorrows
taught me that with God in control I can survive anything. All I wanted was for his will to be done and on March 13, 2006 I was blessed with a beautiful daughter Ali, who was completely healthy and just happens to love horses. God truly blessed me and I will forever be grateful for the lessons he teaches me through Karen Kingsbury's books. -Alice Ann Smith
P.S.- If I ever have a second daughter, she will be named Anna after Ali's sister.

QUESTION:
What is the name of the street where the Baxter family farmhouse is located?

ANSWER:
Dillman Road

CONGRATULATIONS Mary Runia. Mary submitted the correct answer and was chosen at random among hundreds of correct entries. Thank you to everyone who participated in the SOMEDAY Contest.

A NOTE FROM MARY: THANK YOU SO MUCH!
"Just wanted you to know the complete autographed set of the Firstborn series arrived today.
Still can't believe I won the Someday contest! Through you God had again shown His goodness. You are a blessing! And I continue to pray for you writing ministry. May the Lord use your stories to bring many to know the Love of God as their Savior & Lord."
"....I will bless thee... & thou shalt be a blessing." -Gen. 12:2
In Christian Love, Mary Runia   

Nikki Clark is the winner of the Between Sundays Contest.

QUESTION:
In Between Sundays, what was the name of the fictional restaurant where Megan Gunn worked?

ANSWER: Bob's Diner

CONGRATULATIONS Nikki Clark!

Congratulations to Julie Naab, winner of the Forward Contest. Julie won an autographed, advanced copy of Let's Go On A Mommy Date!

QUESTION:
In Karen Kingsbury’s novel, Between Sundays, what was the fictional score of the NFC championship game between the New Orleans Saints and the San Francisco 49ers?

ANSWER:
The fictional score of the NFC Championship was 32-25 San Francisco won over New Orleans.

CONGRATULATIONS to Jennifer Baxter. Jennifer submitted the correct answer and was chosen at random among hundreds of correct entries. Thank you to everyone who participated in the Between Sundays contest. Please keep checking back with Karen's website for more information on future contests.

The winner of the Share-A-Book contest for 2007 was Mary Shade from California. Mary and her family flew in for a weekend in the summer to spend the day with Karen and her family. That day started with breakfast at Karen's home and then out on the river for some fun boating in the sun. Afterwards the two families went to a soccer game and then back to Karen's for a bar-b-que and a swim. A great time was had by all. Remember to continue entering the Share A Book Contest. You can enter more than once and one reader friend will be drawn each year to spend the day with Karen and her family.

Mary Shade of Fair Oaks, California is winner of the 1st Annual Share A Book Contest. Mary's name was selected at random by Karen! Congratulations Mary Shade!!

Read who Mary shard her book with....

"I shared "Even Now" with my 8th grade daughter, Rebekah. She is my 2nd born of my four children and she and my oldest son, Mike, are voracious readers. I had just recently started reading your books around Christmas time. I read "One Tuesday Morning and Beyond Tuesday Morning". I wanted to hand those books to my daughter to read but wasn't sure if it was too much for her. Then, I read "Even Now" and I just knew she would love it. She did and tried to snag "Ever After" from me while I had 40 pages left to read. Since she's in her teen years, I thought your book "Even Now" was perfect for her. All the struggles and discussions the characters had, both "out loud and silently", are things I would want to have my daughter hear from me but that's not something you typically talk about or at least not at that length. Besides, with a character in a book, she can wrap her feelings around and get involved with them and there is more of a receptiveness to really hear how one would struggle with doing what God really wants them to do and make the choices he would prefer, even if you've already flubbed up. It's not a lecture and that makes it so powerful. And since my daughter LOVES to read, I love when I can find books that are engaging AND edifying for her to read. I'm sure that she and I will be competing with each other at our church's library over checking out your other books they have there. Thank you so much for being an instrument of God and writing such beautiful and captivating stories." -Mary Shade

Jon Johansen, Winner of The Cruise For His Wife, Jill

As a former rugby player and coach, I feel simultaneously embarrassed and exhausted from the gasping-for-air emotion welling up in my chest as I begin to type about my preschool son's ongoing fight for life. Mighty Michael has endured things that grown men would not survive: A cancerous brain tumor wrapped around crucial cranial nerves. Hemorrhage. Coma. Four risky surgeries. Trach. Feeding tube. Antibiotic resistant staph. Three months in Seattle's Children's Hospital. Massive radiation. Pituitary problems. Daily shots of growth hormone. Eye operations. countless, tiring therapy sessions. New brain tumor. Halo vest. Gamma knife. Hopefully bought some time. Perhaps a few years. Maybe. Our tender Father snuggles us close as we fight despair, nightmares, guilt, terror, moments of anger and bitterness, sleeplessness, and depression. Moreover, He provides daily emotional bread via both mundane and profound experiences. While desperate prayer and time in God's word surely form the foundation of our strength, for my beautiful wife Jill, your Spirit-led writing continues to lend much-needed moments of mental peace and spiritual hope. Most recently, the book Summer (p.80) referenced "....John 16, where Jesus said, ‘In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.'          ' She did take heart. Still, I worry about her.   With three children she doesn't rest. Surely a fellowship-filled cruise would afford her renewing sabbath. Michael, who has miraculously recovered from so much, just tapped on the bedroom door where I am typing. Says he wants to come see me. Time to pull myself together. Funny thing is, I'm the one who's scared. Michael? He often talks about heaven. Brags about how he'll be the first one from our family to go there. Always says it with a broad smile on his face.

Linda Eiland, Winner of The Cruise For Her Daughter, Tori

I think my daughter, Tori Miller, should get the cruise. She has read all your books and stood in line to get the next book off the press. Tori introduced me and many others to your books, and I in turn have given your books to many friends.
The reason I feel Tori should win is because of the awesome person she is and the way God has moved in her life. Tori had to have arm surgery when she was a teenager. It turned out to be extensive and involved many surgeries and lots of scarring. Still, her physical problems never dimmed her faith. She was teaching third grade when she became pregnant with triplets. The first boy, Colin was born at 18 weeks and didn’t survive. Tori was confined to the bed for the next 5 weeks, at which time Kyndall and Kyle were born. Kyle lived just 3 months. Though Tori’s daughter Kyndall survived, the burials of the other precious two were very hard. In 2000, Tori's dad decided he didn't want to stay in our marriage of 25 years. Tori, was devastated, but still she clung to her faith. Four years ago Tori was in a four-wheel accident that crushed the right side of her face. She lost one of her eyes, and now has a prosthetic eye. But still she reads, and still Tori has kept an awesome love for the Lord and been a witness to many. She found the Redemption series and could not wait to share with me and others. We have all enjoyed with your books, but Tori has been comforted, moved, and blessed beyond measure with them.

Honorable Mentions

By Jason Hight
My wife started reading your books about three months ago. First of all, when she starts one of your books, it does not get put down until she has read the whole thing. Recently, she read, Waiting for Morning. Our family has been deeply affected by a drunk driver. Sherry’s youngest sister, Brenda, was 22 years old when she was killed by a repeat offender drunk driver going the wrong direction on the interstate. She had a 2-month old little girl at the time of the collision.
We have definitely waited for morning to come during this time in our lives. Why Brenda? Why our family? Sherry has often mentioned to me how your resounding theme throughout your books is so true, Great is thy faithfulness. I find her often humming it after she has read your books. Also, the verse in Jeremiah that speaks of God’s plans for our lives. She has told me that although she doesn’t really understand why Brenda was taken from this earth. God still has a plan for her and the rest of her immediate family. Her mom, dad, and sister are closer now than ever before. Don’t take for granted any day with your family. They are but a fleeting moment in time.
Thank you for your books. Thank you for inspiring my wife to love God and love her family. I know without a doubt she is a better Christian today from reading your fiction. If nothing else, I know the scripture references that you use in your books are clearly etched in her mind and thoughts.

P.S. If you pick her as a winner, I know without a doubt, she would take her only other sister, Christina. (The two of them together are something else to see)


By Veronica Farrar
My daughter, Amber Hessler, has been going through a very rough time this last year. Her husband of 9 years left her with three young daughters in February. The night he left, she was in the hospital threatening to take her own life. I was there with her and she kept crying, "I can't breathe without him!" It was a very trying time for all of us. I turned my daughter onto Karen's books. The first one was "One Tuesday Morning", and since then she reads them in one day.
I had the pleasure of meeting Karen in Archbold, Ohio on May 5th. Amber really wanted to come with me and the girl I went there with, but she couldn't find a sitter for her daughters. Karen talked to Amber on the phone for a few minutes, then when it was my turn to talk to Karen, I unceremoniously hung up on Amber. She called me back a few minutes later, and after yelling at me for hanging up on her, said through tears of joy, "Mom, you just gave me the greatest present ever." It made her feel so special to be able to talk to Karen on the phone instead of in person.
And now she's screaming, "I can't breathe without HIM!!"
Thank you Karen, for giving my daughter back to me.


By Susan Hollister
Susan is my very special wife, who is a stay at home mom and part-time K4 teacher. She has a unique bond with her mom, Frances, who set a strong Christian example and made sure that Susan could graduate college while she worked several jobs.
In March 2001, a week after the birth of our third child, Frances was diagnosed with Stage 5 breast cancer. Susan showed an understanding of God's will that was hard for her sisters and brother to comprehend. They could not fathom how she could find joy, knowing that Frances would die. Susan knew that her mom was eventually bound for a better place than here. After a year of chemo, recovery, and much prayer, Frances returned to a normal lifestyle and was soon cleared of cancer.
In August 2005 the cancer returned and was found to have metastasized to her spine. Frances was given only 5 months to live. About the same time, Susan found the Redemption Series, which mirrors many of the struggles we have seen in our family. These books touched my wife's life at a time when she needed it most. They served to reinforce that "love always wins out, no matter how long the struggle, a reminder that God reigns even in the darkest night."
Since then, Frances recovered yet again, despite the diagnosis of her doctors. 300 words are not nearly enough to detail all of the struggles we have faced over the last 6 years. Susan has read over 25 of your books, which have served to reinforce the values she learned from her mom. Winning this cruise would give Susan the chance she may never otherwise have to show her mom exactly how much she loves her and allow them to share a special trip together.


By Jimmy Stuck
I am writing this to enter my wife, Amy Stucky, in the “Make Karen Cry” contest. Your books have been a great source of inspiration and strength for her, have helped grow into the strong Christian woman that she is and have helped get her through some difficult times.
In the last ten years she has dealt with the sudden loss of a younger brother in a car accident, the loss of her parent’s home to a fire, the sudden death of her grandmother due to a heart attack and the loss of her mother after a long fight with brain cancer. Through all of this she has gone back to school to get her teaching certificate and is in her fifth year as a Special Education teacher. On top of all of that, she is an unbelievable mother to our ten-year-old daughter, an awesome wife and probably the toughest person I know both mentally and physically.
I think she should get to go on the Girls Getaway Cruise because in addition to being the best wife and mom in the world she might be the biggest Karen Kingsbury fan in the world as well. She buys every book the day it hits the shelves and usually reads them cover to cover without putting them down. Between Karen Kingsbury books she only reads other Christian authors and she only listens to Praise and Worship music so a cruise with Christian authors and artists would be a dream come true for her.
Thank you for considering my wife for this contest. She deserves it.


By Jamie Snyder
I have chosen to nominate my friend Mel Terwilliger for the Girl’s Getaway Cruise. She has purchased many of your books and shares them with everyone she knows both Christian and non-Christian. Mel is married to a pastor. Your books have changed her life by giving her a safe place to escape the demands of being a mother of three, the wife of a pastor, the secretary for PTA, a volunteer in the schools, an evangelist to everyone she meets, a host to Monday night football (her husband’s best ministry). While reading your books she gains spiritual truths and biblical principals that she shares openly with other moms.
Mel should get to go on the cruise because she has been one of your best marketing tools. She devours your books and tells everyone she knows about how they made her laugh, cry or challenged her thinking. Your books are so popular that there is a waiting list at the library, so if Mel gets a copy she reads it in a day and passes it on to several of her friends to enjoy before it is due. She buys your books and uses them as a ministry tool passing them on to both Christian and non-Christian women in her life. Mel is always giving of her time, resources, and talents. She always puts others first.
I hope she will be the one to receive a much needed cruise vacation with her favorite author. You will be blessed to spend time with my dear friend, Mel.      


By Lisa Moore
I would love to talk to you about my mom. She was diagnosed with ovarian cancer almost 6 years ago, and unfortunately this cancer is one of the hardest to overcome. We found out in February that her brain tumor she had removed a year ago has returned. She has been reading your books for a few years, and loves them. I know they encourage her whenever she reads one, but the one I know touched her the most was Reunion.
My mom is so much like Elizabeth. She is my dad's strength, and holds our family together, especially since I moved with my husband and her grandchildren far away to Virginia. She has a quiet strength and grace, and she has endured surgeries and chemotherapy for years without complaining or becoming bitter. She always has a smile ready and after you spend time with her you always feel encouraged. She reflects Christ in all she does, and shows His kindness and patience every day.
She wants to fight her cancer because she does not want to leave her grandchildren. She longs to see them grow every year, and see all their milestones. She lives for the times when she gets to have a visit with them, her face just glows. I know she also wants to be here to see my single sister find her soul-mate and sit in the front row at her wedding.
I know that Reunion was a book that impacted her because it helped her to wrestle with (and maybe she still does) the same emotions and questions that Elizabeth did. If you are ever blessed to meet her, you will meet the living version of your character.


By Betsy Oldham
I gave Jessica her first KK book to read when she was told to rest when pregnant with her 3rd child. In 8 years she had suffered through 8 miscarriages. I know this pregnancy worried her, also. Her family also made the decision to discontinue cable in their home. I gave her the Redemption series to entertain, yet encourage her. I knew these books would touch her because the experiences the characters have are so real.
The Baxters also suffer tragedy and heartache as my friend has. She read these 5 books so fast and wanted more of your books to read. Like myself, she instantly became addicted to your inspiring writing. Jessica deserves this trip because she has endured much in her life. She is the hardest worker I have ever met.
We taught school together and our rooms were across the hall from one another. We were both pregnant this time together. I prayed for this baby of hers all the time. I was new in town and we instantly clicked. We joked that we were twins separated at birth.   We shared joys and sorrows together. She balances the life of wife, mom, and teacher better than anyone I've ever met. She's fantastic at all three jobs, which is no small feat.
I've recently had to move away and miss my friend dearly. We neither one realized the significance of our friendship until we were separated by distance. Even though life hasn't handed over her desires or dreams yet she continues to be strong in the Lord and work hard. Telling you why she deserves this in less than 300 words is like trying to measure with a ruler how high the sky reaches. By the way, our healthy daughters both turned a year old this past spring!


By Joyce Teeple
There is a very special generous lady who I would like to submit for your contest, Girls Getaway Cruise. Jane Drummer is a professional teacher who is over the age of retirement but because of her love for children and energy to help others Jane is still in full force teaching 3rd grade at Northwest Elementary in Decatur, Indiana.
There is a little boy, Ethan, who has Rhabdomyosaurcoma and is fighting this evil cancer but soon will be fighting for his life. Reunion, in the Redemption Series, touched my heart to tears as I read the life of Elizabeth. I was living each word and hanging onto hope with every page.
Hope had come in March for Ethan. An auction was held and Jane submitted and bought Ethan Teeple Forever in Fiction. The generosity of people brought in over $40,000.00 to help Ethan with his medical bills. Ethan was one year old when he was diagnosed and now is five. As this letter is written Ethan is on his way back to Riley Hospital to receive another dose of chemo. He is now receiving a trial drug which required last week a constant in and out at Lutheran Hospital.
Your books have touched many lives and I am one. Ethan’s mother, Autumn, introduced me to your books 2 years ago. You can vision how God’s hand has led each step down the path to your involvement in our family. When Jane Drummer came to the office that day and said you responded to her email Forever in Fiction I was ecstatic! “That is Autumn's favorite author”, I exclaimed.
The guestbook of caringbridge.org for your father, Ted, has been uplifting to look to heavenly promises. Ethan also, has a caringbridge site that will bring you to tears.


By Rose McCauley
My sister, Becky Villier, and I have always been close, especially after another sister died of cancer 4 years ago. A month ago I loaned her the Redemption series, and she has already read those 5 books and has ordered the Firstborn series for herself and all the family and friends she’s sharing them with.
Becky’s a special person to all she meets, giving unselfishly of herself no matter how tired she is after working two jobs. Bec is known for the smile on her face, but something happened two years ago that she and her family are still digging out from under--Hurricane Katrina.
They left New Orleans, their home for the past twenty-eight years, on August 28, planning to return the next day as they had several times before. Instead, they sat in a motel and watched their neighborhood flood. Becky and her three children moved to Kentucky for three months so the kids could attend school. Her husband had to stay in Baton Rouge with the steamboat he captains.
Bec used this time to start on the mounds of paperwork needed for the insurance company and the government. When they were reunited, the family of five lived in a tiny camper trailer for months until they received a small FEMA trailer. They remain in that trailer almost two years later.
Work on their house has been slow due to lack of workers, dishonest tradesmen taking advantage of the situation, and dwindling funds. Her husband’s job is in jeopardy due to slowdowns. Becky told him how the stories in the Redemption series taught her to pray that God’s will be done. Through it all, Bec has kept on working and taking care of her family. I can’t think of anyone who deserves to win this trip more.


By Sharlan Baldwin
My daughter, Chandra Jones, read Karen’s online book called No Matter When. She identified with the heroine so much that she cried. She has been questioning certain areas of her life and this book spoke to her. She and her husband have been working on their relationship to improve it and follow God. Also, she has been questioning her ability to write. She has started a book but has been dragging in finishing it because of self esteem in that area. No Matter When helped her to rethink her thinking about herself.
When she was finished with reading No Matter, she scoured your website looking for more to read. (They were having financial difficulty, so at that time she could not buy a book) She found your entry in your journal for March 26, 2007, about forgiveness and a situation that happened between you and your husband. She couldn't stop crying. You ministered to her concerning her relationship with her husband. Their struggle has taken a toll on them both, but God sent His message to them at the right time to strengthen and keep them standing.
You were used by God to be their minister at that time through your writing of No Matter and your journal entry in March. She now considers you to be her #1 Christian Author. There are others that are exciting to read also, but you, Karen, fed her soul.
Chandra should be chosen to go on this cruise, not only because she deserves it, but because I believe that she will receive strength spiritually and rest for her body and mind.


By Ellen Childs
My daughter, Karen Crooms is probably one of your dearest fans, because she has purchased and read just about every one of your books. After she reads the book, she can just about tell the entire story line just as it was written. Maybe when I get too old to read, she can tell me the entire story from the beginning to the end.   I truly believe her faith in God has been strengthened through not only the miracles of many of your characters, but the scriptures that you quote in your books.
You see, three years ago Karen was diagnosed with MS. She refuses to believe that she has this terrible disease.   If you knew her, you wouldn't believe it either because of her positive attitude and bubbling personality. She is a CPA and has never missed a day from work because of this disease.
When Karen was expecting her second child, she was on a prescription drug for a thyroid problem. She told her gynecologist and he wanted to perform several tests that Karen was unsure about. When she asked the doctor what they were for, he said, "Your baby could have a mental deficiency or other abnormities and you might choose to abort the baby."
Karen said, "Forget about this test, I'm a Christian and I wouldn't abort my baby under any circumstance." She now has a healthy, strong 10 year old, 5th grade son who has been at the top of his class since he started school. He has the same bubbly personality as his mom.
Karen's time is filled with work, her family, and church (she is assistant choir director). I honestly don't know how she has the energy to do all she does.   I think she really deserves this cruise and it would be so wonderful for her.


By Henrietta Finch
I nominate Vivian Ratliff for the Karen Kingsbury
cruise. Vlivian eagerly reads each new book by Karen Kingsbury. Karen's books are a great inspiration and encouragement to her .Vivian has spent most of her life serving others. She is a widow of a pastor who went home to the Lord 12 years ago. She served the church faithfully along with her husband for 32 years. She has taught Sunday School for 55 years, and is still teaching Sunday School and several Bible Studies.
Vivian has volunteered in two nursing and retirement homes for 25 years. She now helps in the Alzheimer unit of a nursing home and has
been teaching a Bible study to the retired and disabled seniors in the same home for 23 years. Each Wednesday she goes to a Senior Citizen Center to teach a Bible study and help the seniors there. She has taken several young women into her home, led them to the Lord, and kept them until they could get out on their own.
One of the young women met a fine young man and had a beautiful wedding
on Vivian's large deck. Vivian's large family dearly loves and appreciates her, as do her friends. She is now 79 years old and still going strong. She gives the Lord all the credit for how He has used her and prays He will continue to use her until she goes to be with Him! She has served so long and so faithfully, I feel she is deserving of a reward!


By Marilyn Martin
My mother was always to "busy" to read and even made numerous comments that she just didn't enjoy reading. Last year, I introduced her to the Redemption series. She devoured the books and for the first time in my life, I saw my mother immersed in reading a fiction book! Karen, I have been a teacher for 17 years and have had the pleasure of teaching numerous children HOW to read. However, only you as an author.....through your captivating characters and fascinating plots could instill a LOVE of reading into the heart of my mother.
Why my Mom should win passage on the cruise: Public speaker Donna Partow talks about the analogy between a Musk Oxen and Christian women. When Musk Oxen hear the howling of the wolves which prey upon their young, the adult Musk Ox form a circle around their babes. NOTHING can destroy their young before breaking through their defensive circle.
My mom has been my "Mighty Musk Ox Princess Warrior" by protecting me with her prayers and the gift of a Godly inheritance for my past 42 years. She has formed a circle of spiritual protection around me, my sisters and extended family.
At this time, my mom is hearing the howls of some "wolves of discouragement" in her life. Her own mother is in failing health and needs a lot of physical support. My mother's brother has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's and my mom's only sister has a severe mental illness....resulting in a severed relationship between the two of them. It's time for me and my sisters to become the Musk Ox Warrior Princesses of my mom's lifetime....to approach the throne of grace and intercede for her!


By Pam Sheppard
My friend Dottie Tomlin is such a big fan of your books! I was given one of your books years ago, when I was diagnosed with Thyroid Cancer and undergoing treatment. When my friend Dottie was diagnosed with the same disease about a year later, I felt that God wanted me to pass on the gift I had been given, so I gave Dottie one of your books.
She's been hooked ever since! She's so cute, she has a list of your books with the one's checked that she has read, and the one's still to buy, and when we go on day trips together, our first priority is to go hunting for Karen Kingsbury books!
Dottie was my next door neighbor before I relocated to Florida. She has lived alone except for her dog Prince, for many years following a very emotional divorce. After her thyroid operation, her dog became very ill and passed away, leaving her completely alone. Your books are such an inspiration to her, and I know the Lord speaks to her through your stories.
She gets up every morning at 5 am to read them, before getting ready for work.   feel she should win passage on the Girls Getaway Cruise because at times she gets really depressed about being all alone, and needs the reassurance of other Christians to know that she is NOT alone, God is and will always be there for her.
I pray that she will be able to win this cruise!!!!


By Kari Whisner
Reunion was released in July 2004 as my entire family, including my grandparents, “Gran and Pa” headed to Myrtle Beach for our annual vacation. It was Gran, an avid reader who introduced her daughter, my mother, Terri Pribonic to the “Redemption Series” and you can only imagine Mom’s delight at having the book along to enjoy while sunning on the beach. Gran did not yet own a copy.
Mom enjoyed the book and it was the topic of her conversations throughout the week, often reading to us parts of the story that touched her heart. She longed to share the story with Gran despite Gran’s pleas of, “Don’t tell me!” Gran wanted to savor the book on her own, yet, couldn’t help being caught up in Mom’s daily updates on the Baxter’s.
When Elizabeth fully surrendered herself to God’s will the Holy Spirit ministered to Mom in a deep, indescribable way. Though she didn’t understand exactly…she knew God was requesting that same type of surrender of her.
Vacation ended, as did the book. Mom wanted Gran to read Reunion as she traveled home. Instead Gran encouraged Mom to re-read and highlight favorite passages; she did. It was one of their last moments together. Gran was killed in a car accident within days of our return home.
The highlighted, watermarked, sand filled, tanning oil stained book that had been the topic of their last conversations together was lovingly placed in Gran’s coffin. It was inscribed with a note expressing a daughter’s love for her mother as well as the joy of seeing her again; the grandest Reunion of all.
Since Gran’s death, Mom’s learned to surrender through the remarriage of her father, my sister leaving for college, my marriage, a first grandchild, and a job change.


By Jane Covey
Abigail, 6, in a car accident with her alcoholic father; Hannah, 10, abandoned by her mother, beatened by her aunt and uncle; Sarah, 9, severely abused and neglected by her family; Shelley, 11, severely emotionally disturbed; Ian, 6 months old, found strappped in a car seat in a closet; Martha,10, severely neglected; Kendra, 13, parents deceased, abandoned by her sister; Cayden , 11, beaten and neglected by a sadistic father and alcoholic stepmother; Olivia, 5, used as a human ashtray and very neglected; Mary, 2, left with strangers for months at a time; Aaron, 12, autistic and abandoned; Ruth 3 (?) abandoned on the streets; Peter, very ill and abandoned at the hospital as a newborn.
All these children had horrific beginnings. With God at her side, my sister, Ellen, adopted them one by one and provided them stability, love, guidance and a safe place to be a kid. (Ellen adopted the first six alone, the last 7 we adopted together).
With God's help and through your books, my sister has learned about the love of God, forgiveness, compassion, acceptance and tolerance.   She often wondered how you were so assured of God's unconditional love and how she could have that in her own life.
The more books my sister read, the more she realized that God is there for all of us. The more she understood His love, the more she was able to give to her 13 adopted children.
The children now range in age from 5 to 28 years old. All are happy, healthy, miracles of God. Even though they endured horrific abuse and neglect, God watched over each and every one of these children. He had a plan for them.
With 13 special children, my sister needs this cruise.


By Dianne Lawrence
My sister Wanda's son, Robbie, retired from the Army after twenty plus
years of service two years ago. I shared your books EVEN NOW and EVER AFTER with her because the story was so close to what she has gone through with having a son in Special Forces.
Robbie played army with little plastic soldiers and toy guns from the time he was old enough to hold a gun. He always said he wanted to be an ARMY MAN when he grew-up. He has served in Desert Storm, Baghdad, Iraq and Afghanistan. The story in EVER AFTER where the Mom placed the toy soldier on her son Justin's casket was so real that it left Wanda crying uncontrollably thinking of the loss of so many Mothers and families.
This was something she could see herself doing. Although Robbie is retired, he is back in Afghanistan now working with the State Department training the men over there.
Wanda's daughter, Rhonda 43, had a stroke in February 2006. Rhonda's son Canie has Autism and Wanda is his primary caregiver for Rhonda to work.
Our Mother, who had Alzheimer's for over ten years, passed away August 10, 2006. On December 14, 2006 Wanda fell down her basement stairs. She had three fractures to her skull and multiple hemorrhages to the brain.
The doctors didn't think she was going to make it through the night. Praise God she did, but she still has a lot of problems that is going to take a long time to heal. She is my MIRACLE SISTER whom I love very much. These are only a few of the many reasons that I feel Wanda needs the Girls Getaway Cruise.


By Kelli Goodman
Zo Moore (my mother), not to long ago, got me started on your novels. She was diagnosed with Breast Cancer and a friend of hers thought she would find strength and understanding in your words. She was diagnosed with Breast Cancer two years ago and has been struggling ever sense. It started with a mammogram that showed nothing. Two months later there was a large lump. She had a lumpectomy, chemotherapy and radiation.
Three months later she found out that despite her efforts to keep her breast she would need to have it removed. Her cancer was very aggressive and had spread into the lymph nodes. Within the last year her cancer has spread into her lungs and they have found cancer traces in her esophagus. We have been praying for a miracle, but, unfortunately, the miracle may be that we have her for this season. Until…God, in his infamous wisdom, takes her to a place where she is no longer in pain.
Most women think of Breast Cancer as a curable disease..well…not for my mother as it was not for Elizabeth Baxter. I think that reading your books have not only brought her closer to God but able to deal with the long road ahead. My mother may have given up on herself, and her disease, if she had not felt the strength of Elizabeth Baxter.
My mother is an outstanding person, not only kind to everyone she meets, but strong. As with Elizabeth Baxter, my mother would do anything for anybody. She cares about her family and loves being with them and her grandchildren.

P.S. I know that this is an award for a cruise. Unfortunately, my mothers health would not able her to go. My hope is not that you will consider her for the cruise….but…maybe for an HONORABLE MENTION.


By Pat Thompson
I am writing about my 15 year old daughter Portia. One year ago, my husband and I thought we had lost her to the teen years of sullen rebellion and emotional distance that we had hoped would skip our
family.
We knew that she was struggling with acceptance and insecurities. She began to refuse to go to church or have anything to do with God. Almost as if she had lost faith in the God of her childhood. She began to make up lies uncontrollably and refused to do her school work. Her grades suffered as her self esteem steadily declined. She withdrew into a shell of her former self.
My husband and I prayed for her and tried to find ways to pull her back toward us and God, but nothing seemed to work. We went to a bookstore to find some help on how to handle a rebellious teen, when we discovered a shelf of books by Karen Kingsbury. Portia has always loved to read.
A light bulb went off in our heads and we purchased several of the books. Upon reflection we now realize that these books were one of the instruments God used to help recapture the heart of His child.
Today, God has completely turned her heart around and she now has a very open and loving relationship with us and with the God of her childhood. Your books are truly life changing.
Portia is a gifted writer and was published at the age of 11. It would be very inspiring for her to be able to meet her favorite author as well as others who share her two passions, God and books.


By Sharon McWilliams
I want to tell you how it touched me to really see the Godly Mom that I have since reading your books. My Mom raised eight children with no help from my abusive father. She was told by her own mother “don’t come home with a baby in your belly”. She did not feel she had anywhere to go.
As I read the Redemption Series, Ashley’s parents were supportive, never judgemental. They listened to God speak to them for leadership in every situation. My Mom sought God thru His word and prayer. With all that she had to deal with, she made time to show us God’s love and mercy. She taught us we must praise God through storms as well as good times. My Mom and Elizabeth stood on God’s promises to protect their children and bring them back to Him.
My younger brother lost his fifteen year old son last August in an accident. Before the accident my Mom and I were at their home. My nephew made the comment “I am too young to die, I want to have fun”. I remember so well, how Mom ministered to him. I will never forget his words to her “You are right, Mama”.
My Mom may have not been told great things from many, but I know that through your books, she has touched me tremendously. My Mom has never been on a vacation and I promise if she wins this getaway, you will never forget her. God’s light shines inside and out of her.


By Elizabeth Rosenberger
“Take this,” said Peggy. “If you’ve never read a Karen Kingsbury book, then you need to.”
I thought it was because she was sharing something she enjoyed reading. After I read the book out of your Redemption series, I realized it was more than that. Being at the lowest part of my life with losing my mother to cancer, and my son at the height of a meth addiction, I was to worn out to pray and felt like my faith had died.
But what Peggy didn’t know, was instead of handing me a book, she was throwing out a lifeline to a drowning human being. After reading the first book, she brought me the others and I devoured them. And I can honestly say, that was the turning point for my faith and for my sanity.
Peggy deserves this. She is a hardworking woman who is family orientated and loves her grandchildren around her. She is always doing things for other people and putting herself last. And I know if she wins, she will take her daughter, and that’s the way it should be.


By Natalie Sutyak
Nine years ago, I received an unforgettable phone call. My dear friend, Lori was crying uncontrollably asking me to pray. I could barely make out the words through her sobs,"There's no heartbeat." They would check again tomorrow to make sure. My heart ached with her, as we both wanted to be mothers so badly, and I began praying that God would perform a miracle.
Tomorrow had to bring good news. But it wasn't meant to be. Heartbroken, Lori had her first miscarriage. Months later we found out we were going to have babies one month apart. But instead of enjoying our pregnancies together, she became the friend watching from the sidelines when she lost another baby. When my son was born and needed oxygen, Lori was there, standing at his side pumping the air to help him breathe. Miscarriage after miscarriage, she was my inspiration of faith.
I am certain that the birth of all three of my children was extremely difficult for Lori as she waited on the Lord to give her a child of her own. But she was so unbelievably strong. Throughout her years of hurt, Lori found comfort in reading. She could relate to the stories of tragedy, how people dealt with their pain, and kept their faith. Your books have a reoccurring verse that stood out to Lori, Jeremiah 29:11, "For I know the plans I have for you..."
True to His Word, they were finally able to adopt, and their three children are all close in age to ours. Now we are raising our children together, just like we planned. I believe my dear friend Lori should win a
Girls-Getaway Cruise to meet the author whose writing God used to encourage her through a very painful time.


By Leslie Lorentzen
I have never read one of your books. Which is rather pathetic, since I am trying to become a writer. But I will never forget the first time I heard your name praised. It was from my friend, Kim. She had started reading your "Redemption" series around the same time that her husband had started having an affair.
She thought he was acting bizarre and started sharing her suspicions with me. I didn't want to believe it could be true, because this man was my husband's best friend. One day the roof caved in on Kim. She was alone with three kids and fighting for everything she had. During this dark time of the soul Kim found comfort in your books even while her husband was treating her like dirt.
She read them after she and her husband reconciled. She read them as they fought a new battle for the healing of their marriage. She was veracious. It seemed to me your books were to her a salve to heal and a map to guide the way. Since then I can not help but think of your name with fondness. Knowing the gift of the word's God gave you in that series worked a miracle in the life of my friend.
The next book on my reading list will be yours, for what better words to emulate then those that have changed a life. And as for my friend and why she deserves this trip, after all she's been through who else could deserve a vacation?


By Jay Todd
I am writing to tell you about my wonderful wife, Christina. When I heard of your contest, I began to think of how I could express her worth in words. In my opinion, Proverbs 31:10 says it best: “For her worth is far above rubies.” With Christina, I experience the reality of this verse everyday. Christina is a perfect candidate for your contest since she meets both qualifications.
First, God has used your books to touch her life in many ways. As a teenager, Christina often struggled with depression. When she began to turn to the Lord, a godly woman gave her a copy of When Joy Came to Stay. As she read, God used this book to bring healing in her life and to draw her closer to Himself. Until this day, she reads every book you publish, and they continue to encourage her in her walk with Christ. Now, when she reads your books, she gets a much deserved “escape” from the busyness of life as a mother of two very active girls.
Second, in spite of my bias, I cannot think of another person who is more deserving than her. I am seminary student and work full-time to provide for my family. As a result, Christina has made innumerable sacrifices for our family. To her, they are not sacrifices because she is keenly aware of God’s faithfulness in our lives. She is a spectacular wife who encourages me constantly and a wonderful parent who displays the love of Christ to our girls. She inspires me to be a better husband, father, and man. It would be her dream to go on this cruise with you.


By Kathy Miller
Two years ago my sister-in-law Martha Carpenter ended up in the hospital with gastroparesis. Her life since then has drastically changed. She is very limited in the foods she can eat and then she can only have a few spoonfuls. She stays weak most of the time and gets dehydrated easy. She
has good days and bad days with the bad days ruling out the good.
During this time she has read ALL your books. They have brought her great pleasure. She told me one day that it made her see that everyone has problems and it made her feel that she is not alone. She has called me way in the night crying
and told me what has just happened in one of your books.
One night her daughter got up and Martha was sitting on the couch crying. She said, "Mom are you in that much pain?"
Martha said, "No, I just finished one of Karen Kingsbury's books."
Your books have brought her much joy and provided a way to spend her time while she has been coping with the new changes in her lifestyle. I think she would have given up if it hadn't been to looking forward to you next book. When she gets one she always calls and says ok i have finished it and it was the best.
I think she should go on the crusie so that she can meet you and be able to tell you in person the influence your books have had on her during these past two years. She gets so excited when we talk about you and I think this would just make her day even if she can't eat all the food on the
cruise.


By Jason Boehm
This year has been a difficult one for our family. Much like the story of your father, our five year old daughter’s heart stopped beating. CPR and defibrillators were used to try to restart her heart, and she was not given any hope of surviving. God, in His wisdom, chose not to give us a miracle. Lindsey died on November 7, 2006.
Through this, my wife Laura has glorified her Heavenly Father. Tragically, though, her earthly father was diagnosed with terminal cancer two weeks later, and he passed away in January. While her pain and trials have been enormous, she is not my nominee for the cruise.
In 2000, the day after my father’s funeral, Laura and I discovered that we were pregnant with Lindsey. My mom accepted this news as a gift from God, and she and Lindsey had an incredible bond. When Lindsey died last year, the Lord took His gift home and left my mom with an incredible longing for Heaven. Despite her own tragedies, when she heard of your contest, my mom emailed my wife, “Enter – I can’t think of anything anyone else could write that could win.” But that’s my mom; she always considers others above herself.
Karen, you are my mom’s favorite author. I know this because she shares all of your books with my wife. I also know because she showed me the picture of you and her at a book signing in Alabama. My mom was in tears in the picture because she had just shared Lindsey’s story with you, which, I understand, is similar to your son’s situation. I know how much of an inspiration your books have been to her. I can’t think of anyone who could use this cruise more than my mom, Liz Boehm.


By Katie Zimmerman
I would like to share with you how God has used your books to touch the heart and change the life of my dear friend and sister-in-law…Paula!   
I don’t know exactly when Paula came to Christ, but it is evident that God has used your books to make a profound impact in her spiritual walk! Your writing, Karen, has inspired Paula to seek the Lord with all of her heart!
Your God-given talent for writing gives your readers the ability to relate to your characters emotionally, physically, intellectually…and spiritually. So often, Paula calls to share what God has laid on her heart through the reading of one of your stories and, through tears…and laughter, shares how God is using your characters to challenge her and impress His truths upon her heart!
Selflessness is one of Paula’s many beautiful attributes! She has shown loving compassion, comfort and support to countless people, sharing the love of Jesus through serving with Meals on Wheels, Habitat for Humanity, Goodwill, soup kitchens, women’s shelters, homeless shelters, family resource centers, nursing homes and church. She has also helped children through programs such as Compassion, Feed My Starving Children, Toys for Tots and Operation Christmas Child….all of this while struggling daily with the symptoms of multiple sclerosis.
Over the past 10 years, Paula has experienced daily weakness of the arms and legs, pain, body numbness, dizziness and extreme fatigue. Through it all, she keeps her eyes focused on Jesus and presses onward! Paula’s life is a worthy example to emulate! Thank you, God, for blessing Paula through Karen and helping her to know and feel Your presence!


By Joy Ryan
My mother in law Nenia has changed my life as well as many others using your books. I had a difficult time growing up and like many others had grown apart from God. I moved back and forth from Washington state and New York after my parents divorce when I was thirteen.I lived anywhere from their houses to friends and relatives and even a shelter.
Now I know others are worse off in this world but at that time it was huge to me and instead of clinging to God I ran in the opposite direction. During the time I was dating my now husband Adam I was living with my father. The house became unsafe due to his drug use and sometimes abusiveness because of his addictions. Adam's parents took me in and gave me my own room that happened to have all of your books.
Nenia gave me the Redemption series to start with and after finishing the first book I realized a couple of things. I had found my love for reading again but more than that I had found my love for God again. I believe that she should win this because she deserves to have something nice done for her since she does so much for everyone else.
She has always wanted to go on a cruise and what better cruise than one with her favorite author? She is an amazing mother in law who's shown me many things but most important what it is to live life for God. Your books along with Nenia's inspiration brought me back to God and changed my life. Finally I just want to thank you for using the gift God has given you and changing lives everywhere with your writing.

Congratulations to Paul E. Dickerson

Karen chose Paul's entry as the GRAND PRIZE WINNER of the Real Men Read Karen Kingsbury contest.
This winning entry was submitted by Paul's daughter, Lori Shinn.
"My Dad began reading Dandelion Dust a few months ago. He gave it to all of his relatives to read, between here in Oregon and Los Angeles, CA. That book even went on a world wide cruise to Brazil and the Philippines, to Texas and Branson, MO. Over a dozen people wrote in the front of my book that they had read it! Dad was so into it that when he stopped on the truck to sleep, he just had to read for 3 hours because he couldn't put the book down. (He does not read any other books except the Bible.) Anyway, it has been very funny how into these books he is."

2nd Place Winner - Paul Gross

"My husband Paul is a real man because he not only likes using tools to fix old things and make new ones, he also likes to read Karen Kingsbury's life changing fiction. He is now reading "Ocean's Apart" and can't put it down! Paul said that this story has shown him that life can be full on surprises, even from one mistake, but God helps us through it all." - Submitted by wife, Mrs. Gross

3rd Place Winner - Randy Musick

"When a new Karen Kingsbury book appears on the shelves, my husband and I go into fierce competition mode to see who gets to read the book first. We recently picked up Sunrise and had it at Hilton Head Island on vacation with us. I got up to take a dip in the pool and guess who grabbed my book??? We both love your books and have read each and every one. Thank you for sharing your gift with us. Randy is now encouraging his son to read them. In fact, we tell most everyone we run into about Mrs. Kingsbury's amazing talent. I am so thankful for God blessing her so that she may share with the world." Submitted by wife, Rebecca Musick

Runner up - Tim Talbot

"Ever since I first started reading your books, my brother Tim has been immersed in the stories, in the lives of the characters that have become like friends to us. We have both been touched, challenged, and have been continually reminded of how God is working through ordinary people living ordinary lives." Submitted by sister, Rose Talbot

Runner up - Kyle T. Thompson

"My son, Kyle, attorney at law, reading one of Karen's books... A mild mannered legal counselor by day, and part-time superhero after working hours, Kyle loves to read any number of incredible fiction books when not saving clients or damsels in distress..." Submitted by mom, Leslie Thompson

Honorable Mention - Nate Fox

"This is my husband, Nate reading with our daughter, Noelle. Although he won't admit it, I believe he gets a little choked up when he thinks of her growing up. Real men do read to their daughters!" Submitted by wife, Jamie Fox

Amy Mixson
Sandy Phillips
Janice Prebihilo
Donna Perry
Chrissy Boes
Amber Miller
Robin Mack
Donnamarie Dickens
Sandy Trent
Bonnie Warner
Julia Blocher
Naomi Hoover
Roberta W.
Lisa Millikin
Renita Yoder
Karen Hatt
Brenda Spriggs
Kim Pohlman
Carolyn Herring
Meg Luchies

"Everyone should have the opportunity to read or listen to a book by Karen Kingsbury. It should be in the Bill of Rights". -Rachel Sides

"I would travel across the country to get Karen Kingsbury's books. They are by far the best I have ever read. God had never seemed so close to me, thank you!" - Rebecca Bell

"There are not enough tissues in this world while reading a Karen Kingsbury book!" -Cathy DuVal                                       

"Karen Kingsbury's books have been an inspiration to my life. Every book I have read I feel like I'm part of the story or cast. I find myself trying to help them in any way I can." - Brenda Darby         

"Karen Kingsbury’s books are filled with the unshakable, remarkable, miraculous fact that God’s grace is greater than our suffering. There are no words for Ms. Kingsbury’s writing. Her goal is quite simply~your soul!" -Wendie Kidwell

"My husband recently threatened to buy stock in a tissue company because I use so many of them when reading Karen Kingsbury's books! He wants to know why I read something that makes me cry and I tell them they are tears of joy, tears of sorrow, and tears of hope all shed in unison for God’s Glory displayed through her words. Thank you for each and every book and PLEASE write faster….I cannot get enough!" -Tammy Lovett

"Because of Karen Kingsbury's books, my walk with Christ became stronger. Because I loaned these books to my mother, she BECAME a Christian! Thank you for a richer life here and in heaven!" -Jennifer Edwards

"Karen Kingsbury's amazing novels have reignited my love for reading that has been pushed aside by the chaos of adulthood and a teaching career! When I read my first book, I couldn't stop...I read 13 more in one summer!!!" -Jamie Bruinsma

"I have never read anything so uplifting and entertaining. I'm shocked as I read each new release because it's always better than the last one. Karen Kingsbury's books are heaven-sent!!!" -Bonnie Sager

"Every Karen Kingsbury book I have read has drawn me deeper into my relationship with God. As soon as I lay one book down, I am running to my book store for the next. Each book is a journey of a lifetime that you just don't want to miss!" -Rebecca Larey

"When Karen Kingsbury calls her books Life-Changing Fiction, she's merely telling the unvarnished truth. I'm still sorting through the changes in my life that have come from reading just a few of her books - wait till I've read 'em all!" -Robert McKay

"Karen Kingsbury's books have one main thrust, that God's Will is first and formost. She constantly reminds us that when we do things God's way, only then is He pleased, and that will allow us to show those around us a true picture of an awesome God." -Rev. Don Casper

"I must admit that I wish I was a much slower reader…or you were a much faster writer.
Either way, I can’t seem to get enough of Karen Kingsbury's books! They bless my heart and uplift my spirits – you have such a gift from God." -Jillian Beasley

"It is so easy in the routine and struggles of life to forget that God has a plan for me and is always at work in my life. Karen Kingsbury's books always remind me that I am not alone, God is working in and through me and He will meet me and love me exactly where I am. As I wipe the tears away at the end of each book, I am once again thankful for the gift He has given Karen and the awesome way she uses that gift to reach her readers!" -Sharyl Pinkerman

"Your books have brought to me a profound understanding of the fact that, regardless of what God allows in our lives, good or bad, we must see it all through the Cross. I am deeply moved, cheered, encouraged and changed by the stories Karen Kingsbury writes. I cannot thank you enough." -Barb Garonzik

"What a gift God has given Karen Kingsbury! It feels so real that I find myself starting to talk about one of the characters as if they were real and it was really happening when I suddenly stop myself. Ever After brought the war into my heart." -Debbie Gagne

"I have started sharing all of my Karen Kingsbury books with my husband, my boss lady at work and a very special friend, they are now sharing with their loved ones- I can't read one fast enough before someone else is wanting it. Oh my I think I have started an epidemic!" -Beverly Banks

"Waiting for and getting that new book that Karen has written is better than getting desert at my favorite restaurant. I was offered $50 one time in the airport for the 4th book in the Redemption series, and the lady's husband just couldn't understand why I wasn't interested in selling it. Through the sharing of Karen's books with many of my friends, many have decided that contemporary Christian fiction is the next best thing to the Bible. Thank you so much, Karen. It is truly a God thing that you write the way you do." -Sue Ellen Hardley

"I have never been more emotionally connected with the characters in Karen Kingsbury's books as I was in reading EVER AFTER. This book was a picture of the true sacrifice that Christ made for all of us!!! Blessings and many thanks." -Tab Gotzmer

"I love to read. My husband said if I am going to continue to read Karen Kingsbury's books, then I need to get stock in Kleenex. My pillow is still wet from reading last night. Thank you for bringing them into my home." -Brenda Farrell

"Do you have complete faith in your life right now? You will by the time you’ve finished a Karen Kingsbury book. Buckle up and hang on for the greatest gift of your life. Thank you, Karen, for putting me back on His path." -Jacqueline Friedhof

"Karen Kingsbury's books have made me see things in ways that I had never thought about them before. I have to force myself to put them down and come up for air!" -Tabitha Hunter

"Caution: Be careful where you read a Karen Kingsbury book. You may find yourself sobbing uncontrollably on an airplane!" -Mari Harrington

"Soft, Pliable and Moldable- Karen Kingsbury's books are tools (along with God's Word) that God uses to keep my heart in tip-top shape. My heart gets a workout and the tears flow each time I finish a heartwarming story from Karen. Thank You and keep on using your talents to minister to us readers!" -Karen Marshall

"Karen--How did you get inside my head and heart to portray your characters so accurately? I identify with so many of the Baxter family in every one of the Redemption series! Due to all the tears I have shed in reading your books, I have enhanced the sales of tissues big time, so in a word, between us, we are helping the economy". -Maxine Bechtel

This contest asked Karen's readers to make her cry in 200 words or less. Hundreds and hundreds of readers submitted entries telling Karen how God used one of her books to change their life. In conjunction with Premier Christian Cruises, Karen gave away two Grand Prizes of an all expense paid trip for two on the 2006   Girls-Get-Away Cruise.

The Grand Prize winners are:

    Laura McFarland
   
    Ann Correll
   
    Melissa Ford

See Karen's Mid-October Newsletter for more information on the judging of this contest.

Twenty-Five Runner Up entries were chosen to receive a copy of Karen's latest release: Family, Book 4 in the Firstborn Series:

    Stephanie Beisheim
    Georji Brown
    Pamela Jo Chenoweth
    Heather Anne Clark
    Tracey Steil Dykes
    Elizabeth (Libby) Geissinger
    Charlotte Griffin
    Tammy Hart
    Sally Kettering
    Rhonda Lauver
    Michelle Smith Martin
    Margie Mijares
    Shannon Mosbeck
    Lisa Russell Motley
    Janet Newman
    Katrina T. Novay
    Amy Quintanilla
    Kimberly Reynolds
    Dawn Riffe
    Jennifer Rohrbacher
    Sherri-Lynn Eugenie Romanuk
    Diane Sherrill
    Kathleen Stevenson
    Carolyn Wilkins
    Judy Williams


Read the Winning Entries