WHAT LED YOU TO WRITE SOMETHING NEW?
I knew the series was going to be about three friends. So I asked myself, “What would spice it up a bit? What would happen if one of the Mennonite women didn’t want to be plain? And if she rebelled, could she still keep her faith and the friendship of the other two women?” I saw Lil’s predicament could be both tragic and comical—the perfect formula for me.
STARTING OUT, WHO WERE THE AUTHORS WHO INSPIRED YOU? WHO INSPIRES YOU NOW?
Two favorite authors are Gilbert Morris and Catherine Palmer. Now MaryLu Tyndall and Karen Witemeyer both create heroes that make a heart pitter-patter.
HOW DOES YOUR FAITH INFLUENCE YOUR WRITING?
I’m the commonest of clay jars, and it brings a smile to my lips every day that God actually dwells in such a humble abode. I mean, if he can use me, there’s hope for the world! I wanted to keep my Mennonite heritage quiet, but God wouldn’t have it. He chose to expose it. Typical! But it does bring authenticity to my Plain City Bridesmaids series.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU KNOWN YOU WANTED TO BE AN AUTHOR?
Forever! But I didn’t write for publication until 1994. I regret the stories that I never brought to life. Especially the Velcro Puppy, the cocker spaniel with long ears that attracted all kinds of debris and caused mayhem and mishap wherever his little paws tread.
WHAT DO YOU MOST HOPE THAT READERS GET FROM READING YOUR WORK?
That laughter can be found in the bleakest of situations. It’s healing.