Don Cusic is a former journalist and entertainment manager, a country music historian, a songwriter, and a Professor of Music Business at Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee. He is also the author of more than a dozen books about the entertainment business and music personalities—including Reba McEntire, Randy Travis, and Sandi Patti.

In our interview, Don talks about his most recent books, drops some quick wit, and offers sage advice about choosing a career.

How old were you when you first knew you wanted to be a writer?

I was in the sixth grade. There was a DAR contest, and I wrote a poem. Another kid asked me, “Are you going to be a writer?” and I replied, “No, there’s no money in it.” But at that moment, I know I’d be a writer.

How did you go about pursuing that career?

Worked for a newspaper, got a degree in journalism.

What was your “break” into entertainment journalism?

Getting to work for “free” for Record World while they were compiling their “Country Music Special” in Fall 1973. Dan Beck “hired” me—said they’d buy me a hamburger now and then.

Who/what influenced your writing career the most?

Roger Miller and Hank Williams on songs, the great journalists like Walter Lippman and Charlie Wolfe for academic writing. The novelists Ernest Hemingway, John Steinbeck, and Gore Vidal were also influential.

Has God ever provided an unexpected “detour” in your life that turned out to be positive?

I went to work for Monument Records as an executive—which didn’t “fit,” but it gave me the opportunity to see how a record label worked day to day. I had a failed business—a management company—and that let me know I needed to be a writer as well.

You’ve been involved in many aspects of the music business—from journalism to artist management to songwriting—and you’re now Professor of Music Business at Belmont University. What advice do you give to young people who want to break into the music business, whether in music or journalism?

The advice I’d like to give is work for a newspaper—that is invaluable training. But there’s less and less opportunity there now. I’d have to say the obvious—go to college and intern. That seems to be the best way to get into the music business these days.

The other thing is to follow your “heart” instead of your “head.” In other words, don’t take a job just for the money, or because it offers more money, when there’s another job—paying less—for something you’d love to do.

You’re a prolific writer and have released two books this year. Let’s talk about It’s the Cowboy Way! The Amazing True Adventures of Riders In The Sky (University Press of Kentucky). Please tell us a little bit about it.

Actually, that book came out several years ago. I was the first manager of Riders and the guys and I have remained friends through the years. I was talking with Ranger Doug one day, and he told me that Ken Griffis was going to write a book about them but it fell through. So I pursued it.

My most recent book is an encyclopedia of Contemporary Christian Music (Greenwood Publishing Group). I got roped into that one because I’d written a history of gospel and Christian music and an editor at a major resource publishing company needed an encyclopedia. She wore me down and I reluctantly said “yes.” Advice: don’t ever write an encyclopedia!

There are an incredible number of facts in the Riders in the Sky book. What kind of research did it take to write such a  detailed biography?

As for the research, I’d done an encyclopedia of cowboys, and I was the editor of The Western Way, the magazine of the Western Music Association. So that background helped a lot—as well as knowing about country music. The singing cowboys were an important part of the history of country music.

Also—I spent a lot of time with them, traveled in their bus on the road, and we had some long, sit-down interviews.

Besides providing entertainment, what is the one thing you hope readers will take away from this book?

A knowledge of how the “cowboy” has been an important part of the history of country music.

You released another book about a singing cowboy. Gene Autry: His Life and Career was published by McFarland, in April. You interviewed several of Autry’s contemporaries for the project. That had to be fascinating! Please tell us about the book.

That book took ten years to write. I intended to write a book about the singing cowboys influence on country music, but it kept coming back to Gene Autry. I really didn’t want to do a biography of Autry—so I’d set it aside. I’d run into some roadblocks, or I’d take up other projects and stick that manuscript in a file folder. But I kept coming back to it.

People sometimes ask, “How do you choose the books you do?” and the answer is often “the books choose me.” Don’t know how to explain that—except there are some books that just demand to be written. I’m just the vessel.

Was there one special fact you unearthed about Gene Autry that surprised or touched you?

How lucky he was!

You are the founding member and Chair of the Belmont Book Award presented each year to the best book in country music. What are the criteria for the award? Who are some of the past winners?

Well-written, well-researched book related to country music that sheds new light on the topic. Some of the past winners are The Colonel: Tom Parker by Holly George-Warren, Linthead Stomp by Patrick Huber, the Encyclopedia of Country Music from the CMF, Devil’s Box by Charles Wolfe, Workin’ Man’s Blues, and the Jimmie Rodgers book by Barry Mazor. Can’t remember them all right now!

A few fun questions:

If you were a song, what kind of song would you be?

Jitterbug number.

Are you a major or a minor chord?

A seventh.

In the story that is your life, are you the tall, dark stranger; the romantic lead; the mythical warrior; the mad scientist; or the child in an adult’s body?

The one who kept banging his head against a wall until it cracked.

I’m a dog lover. Any pets at the Cusic household?

One Lab. In the past—there have been cats and a gerbil.

Thanks, Don! It’s great to have you visit at DivineDetour.

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For more information about Don Cusic, visit his website at www.doncusic.com.

For additional information about Belmont University and/or the Mike Curb College of Entertainment and Music Business, logon to www.belmont.edu or www.belmont.edu/cemb.

To purchase It’s the Cowboy Way! The Amazing True Adventures of Riders In The Sky from the University of Kentucky Press, visit http://www.kentuckypress.com/viewbook.cfm?ID=1055&Group=7.

To purchase The Encyclopedia of Contempory Christian Music from Greenwood Publishing Group, visit http://www.greenwood.com/.

To purchase Gene Autry: His Life and Career, visit the McFarland website at http://www.mcfarlandpub.com/book-2.php?id=978-0-7864-5978-0.

To purchase either or all books from Amazon, logon to http://www.amazon.com/s/qid=1279940644/ref=sr_st?keywords=cusic&page=1&rh=n%3A%211000%2Ci%3Astripbooks%2Ck%3Acusic&sort=daterank.

Tricia Goyer is a multi-published author—twenty-five books to date. She is also the homeschooling mother of four and a dedicated church worker and speaker.

How does she find the time?

Tricia, you are a prolific writer of magazine articles, non-fiction books, and contemporary and historical novels. When did you first realize you wanted to write?

I first thought about writing in 1993. A friend from church, Cindy Martinusen, told me about her aspirations to become a novelist. My first thought was…Real people do that? She invited me to attend Mount Hermon Christian Writer’s Conference with her. I was new as new can be. I was also 22-years-old and pregnant with my third child, but I learned enough at that conference to start off on the right track. And I’ve been actively working at my writing ever since.

Writers often refer to their first manuscript as “the book of their heart.” What was your “heart” book? Has it sold, or is it still waiting in the wings?

The book that is the most “me” is Blue Like Play Dough. It’s a mommy memoir that shares how God shaped me in my role as a mom. So much of me and my family is in that book—my transformation is within those pages. I’m also currently working on a book that will share even more about my life—mostly about how to follow God’s call and do big things for Him.

How does your faith play into your writing?

I wouldn’t be doing what I’m doing without my faith. When I was seventeen years old I was a pregnant teenage girl who dropped out of school. I dedicated my life to God and asked Him to make something out of it. He has! My writing comes out of my life. Faith—and experiencing God—is a part of my everyday life.

My main goal is to provide entertainment in my novels, help and hope in my non-fiction, to inspire people to discover God in new ways.

Has God ever provided an unexpected “detour” in your life that turned out to be positive?

Yes, in 1999 I felt God leading me to help start a crisis pregnancy center in our town. I wasn’t interested, but I felt that internal nudging that it was what I was supposed to do. This detour led me to being a volunteer director for many years. I also led Bible Studies, and I started mentoring teen moms. I was blessed by all the people that we were able to help, what I didn’t expect was for my own heart to be changed. Working with all those “needy” people was like sandpaper to the heart. I started caring more. It took me out of my comfort zone. I saw God work in amazing ways, and I wrote about that, too.

Even when God calls us to write, He requires us to put in a lot of time in front of the computer. How do you discipline yourself to write? Do you write every day? Where do you write?

I don’t write every day. I do write three-four days a week. I love to-do lists and I have them scheduled out weeks at a time. I write down what I need to do for writing deadlines, for errands, for meetings…you name it!

I write in my office or sometimes I write on the living room couch. I’m not one of those writers who goes to a coffee house or external office. I just need a place where I can semi-focus.

Let’s talk about your latest book, Love Finds You in Victory Heights, Washington, co-written with Ocieanna Fleiss, and published July 1 by Summerside Press. Please tell us about the story.

Here’s a summary of the story:

The Second World War has stolen Rosalie’s fiance from her. But rather than wallow, Rosalie throws herself into her work at the Boeing plant in Victory Heights, shooting rivets into the B-17 bombers that will destroy the enemy. A local reporter dubs her Seattle’s Own Rosie the Riveter, and her story lends inspiration to women across the country. While Rosalie’s strong arms can bear the weight of this new responsibility, her heart cannot handle the intense feelings that begin to surface for Kenny, the handsome reporter. Fear of a second heartbreak is a powerful opponent—but will it claim victory over love?

Ocieanna and I had a great time writing this book. We researched in Seattle and even interviewed five women who had worked on the Home Front. We were amazed by how everyone was so involved in the war effort. It was inspiring!

How did you and Ocieanna share the work on this book?

We both researched and worked on the plot together. I’d get an idea then she’d get one and then we’d build on that. We’d just go back and forth. We started out writing the first few chapters together, then Ocieanna wrote the first draft. I’d go over the second draft and edit and fill in. I’d also look up research and make sure everything was historically correct. She’d leave notes for me and I made sure everything worked.

You have a new book releasing in 2011, Beside Still Waters (B&H). Please tell us a little about it.

Beside Still Waters is the first in an Amish series. The series is set in Montana where there is a small, Amish community. It’s a series about community and faith, and it’s inspired by some of the true stories of some of the Amish I met.

Will there be more WWII stories coming from you anytime soon?

Yes! I’m working on another novel with Mike Yorkey, my co-writer for The Swiss Courier. It has to do with the Mona Lisa and WWII. We’re having fun working on it!

Is there one central theme that is usually or always present in your work?

Trusting God. No matter what is happening, wherever we are we can turn to Him, trust Him, and we’ll find hope.

A few fun questions…

When the words aren’t flowing—or when you want to celebrate if they are—what is your favorite comfort food and why?

I love ice cream. I usually eat it every day.

This website features writers as well as musicians, so I like to mix it up a bit. Do you have musical, as well as literary, talent?

No. LOL. Not at all. I play the radio!

What kind of music do you listen to when you’re relaxing with the radio or an mp3 player?

I love Christian Contemporary. Some favorites are Sanctus Real, Addison Road, Joy Williams, and Third Day.

If you were a song, what kind of song would you be?

Hopeful, upbeat, and inspirational!

Are you a major or a minor chord?

I have no idea what that means!

In the story that is your life, are you the strong, female lead; the girl next door; the mysterious woman behind dark glasses; the super heroine; or the little girl trying to walk in high heels?

A female lead, for sure. I like to run the show. LOL.

I’m a dog lover and I know you are too. Please tell us about your dog.

We have a Scottie-Pom, which is a nice way to say he’s a mutt. He’s sweet, very loyal and thinks he owns the house!

Tricia, thanks for taking time to visit DivineDetour. Please come back again soon!

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For more information about Tricia and her books, visit her website at www.triciagoyer.com.

To purchase Love Finds You in Victory Heights, Washington:

Amazon, http://www.amazon.com/Love-Finds-Victory-Heights-Washington/dp/1609360001/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1280193825&sr=1-2

Barnes & Noble, http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Love-Finds-You-in-Victory-Heights-Washington/Tricia-Goyer/e/9781609360009/?itm=1&USRI=tricia+goyer

Christianbooks, http://www.christianbook.com/love-finds-you-victory-heights-washington/tricia-goyer/9781609360009/pd/360009/1096678419?event=1001AUT|1703132|67484#curr

Do you have a favorite article of clothing? Something you wear every chance you get? Maybe those sweatpants you slip into as soon as you walk in the door. Or the comfortable shoes that feel like therapy to your feet.

For me, it’s a well-worn pair of blue jean shorts. They’re faded and patched and oh-so comfy.

Our faith should be like that.

A well-worn and relaxed trust in God. The belief that He will work everything to the good for those who love Him.

No matter what.

Come everyday stresses, financial burdens, or even health concerns, our faith is always waiting for us. And the more we wear it, the more comfortable it gets.

Related reading: Colossians 3:14-14; 1 Thessalonians 5:8-11; Luke 12:27; Matthew 6:28-33; Isaiah 61:10

Jim Rubart’s debut novel, Rooms, is one of the most talked about books of the year. Now he hopes to encourage others to follow their dream, to embrace their freedom—the freedom to be who they aspire to be.

Talking to Jim for a few minutes will inspire you to do just that.

Your primary career has been in marketing. When did you begin writing? Has it been a lifelong ambition?

Only since I was twelve. Smile. Yes, lifelong dream which I buried for forty years because I was too scared to jump off the cliff. I’ve subscribed to Writer’s Digest for decades, went to one-day workshops since my early twenties, noodled on short stories, but never showed my writing to anyone. I thought I’d be like one of those kids on American Idol who everyone knows they can’t sing except them.

If there’s one thing that can come out of people looking at my journey it would be to see them go after their dream with abandon, whether it’s writing, painting, music, becoming a travel guide for trips around the world, becoming a speaker, starting a restaurant…I want to see people step out of the shadows and attempt the thing they’d do if they knew they couldn’t fail.

How does your faith play into your writing?

I don’t think about it. I’m an author. I’m a passionate follower of Jesus. Consequently my faith will come out in my writing, but I don’t consciously try to put my faith in my writing. I simply write the stories that won’t quit bouncing around in my brain.

Has God ever provided an unexpected “detour” in your life that turned out to be positive?

Yes! Detours plural! Here’s just one: Back in 1996 I started working for a company that turned out to be so stressful my wife had to call 911 because we thought I was having a heart attack. I wondered why God had put me in that situation. But out of that two-year work experience I grew tremendously in my relationship with Jesus and learned things about life I wouldn’t have gleaned any other way.

Let’s talk about Rooms, your new book from B&H. Please tell us about it.

It’s the story of a young Seattle software tycoon who inherits a home on the Oregon coast that turns out to be a physical manifestation of his soul. What would we find if we walked into the rooms of our soul? My protagonist finds out! There are rooms of incredible joy, and rooms he doesn’t want to face, rooms that contain his deepest sorrows. But Jesus is the great Healer and Restorer…if we’re willing to step into those rooms.

In Rooms, the main character finds faith through an incredible spiritual adventure. What gave you the idea for the book?

Comic books. The Twilight Zone. It’s a Wonderful Life. The Screwtape Letters. The Matrix. My love of romance. But the main inspiration came from a pamphlet I read as a kid called My Heart, Christ’s Home. I always wondered what would happen if you took the idea in that little book and blew it up on steroids. I mixed all the above elements together and out came Rooms.

The response so far has blown me away. Rooms is now published in French, Dutch, Portuguese, and we’re talking with Taiwan. A number of movie companies have expressed interest. We’re doing a large print hardback version, and the audio version will be out in September which I’m going to voice.

But the greatest thrill is when someone writes to me and tells me the book changed their life.

Besides the entertainment value, what is the one thing you hope readers will take away from it?

More freedom in their lives. Jesus said He came to heal the brokenhearted (all of us) and set the captives (all of us) free. I want people to step into the freedom that Jesus offers, step out of their fears into the divine destiny God designed for them.

Does your upcoming book, Book of Days (January 2011, B&H), have the same ethereal quality as Rooms?

It still has a supernatural premise at its core—that it might be possible to find God’s Book of Days (which is described in Psalm 139 and has recorded the past, present and future of every soul on earth)—but it’s not as immersed in the supernatural as Rooms is.

When writing, do your characters or your plots usually come first?

Usually a premise pops into my mind first, then I realize I need some people to make that premise come to life which comes through strong characters. So I’d say plot first, people second. You, of course, need both to create a compelling story.

This website is about both writing and music. You are a guitarist. In fact, there’s a Rooms music download available on your publisher’s site. Did you play guitar for the project? How did the music idea come about?

My publisher came up with the idea and I loved it immediately. I’ve played guitar since 9th grade so we recorded one of my songs and one of my son’s songs, and got the rights to use some other wonderful songs from musicians. On top of that, my friend Jeff Cooley at B&H wrote an original song inspired by Rooms that is one of the best country songs I’ve heard.

You teach The Master Seminars for marketing, an intensive two-day workshop in conjunction with Chip MacGregor. What was the impetus for these seminars?

I figured since novelists knew how to write books they would know how to write Web copy, ad copy, one-sheets, etc. Nope. I quickly realized those are two different skills. Plus, novelists—for the most part—are either intimidated by marketing or don’t know how to do it. I realized there was a huge need for authors to be taught branding, marketing, writing skills that would help them sell more books.

If a writer asks you for the one most important thing he can do to effectively market his book, what would you tell him or her?

Write a stunning book. I’m serious. Eighty percent of a novel’s sales comes from word of mouth. So one of the things I teach is how to come up with high concept ideas for novels. On one hand there’s nothing new under the sun, on the other, there are techniques for coming up with ideas that people are captivated by and that feel unique. Those are the books that stand the best chance of breaking out. After that I go to work on the twenty percent that can be influenced by implementing the right marketing techniques.

A few fun questions:

If you were a song, what kind of song would you be?

Rock and roll. Not heavy, but something high energy, a bit playful with a killer guitar solo.

Are you a major or a minor chord?

I’m a major who is fascinated by the minors. Put another way, I’m McCartney, but a bit wistful that I’m not Lennon.

The rabbit is out of the hat, so to speak. What can you tell us about your hobby as a magician?

Oh no, you told on me! I started that hobby as a kid, and it eventually turned into doing corporate parties and performing professionally frequently in the 90s. I even got asked to perform for a George W. Bush campaign stop just before he was elected the first time. I don’t perform much anymore, but in May I did a short show at the Blue Ridge Christian Writers Conference and someone taped it—and of course with Facebook it was up on the Web a few days later. It was pretty funny to see myself performing again after all these years.

In the story that is your life, are you the tall, dark stranger; the romantic lead; the mythical warrior; the mad scientist; or the child in an adult’s body?

Is this a trick question? Do I tell you what I am, or what I hope I am? Let’s go with the latter which would make me the mythical warrior. The Old Testament is a story of physical war, the New Testament is the story of spiritual war. I hope I’m a warrior of the New Testament kind helping people to victory in their personal battles.

And a requisite question here at DD, are their any pets at the Rubart household? Dogs? Cats?

One cat. We used to have four, but, uh, let’s just say the raccoons in our backyard are not our friends.

Thanks, Jim! It’s great to have you as a guest at DivineDetour.

Great questions! Thanks so much for having me.

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For more information about Jim Rubart, visit his website at www.jimrubart.com.

For information on Barefoot Marketing, visit www.barefootmarketing.com/Home/

For information about downloading Rooms music, visit www.bhpublishinggroup.com/books/products.asp?p=9780805448887

It was Gospel music week in Nashville and, as usual, I couldn’t find a parking place in front of the convention center. I circled around the block, finally pulling into a spot four or five blocks away. With a single quarter to feed the meter, I would have to walk quickly to return before it reverted to red.

With each step, my high-heeled sandals reminded me of the uphill walk to the convention center and the thought that I should have changed into my walking shoes before leaving the car. But the warm, spring weather and the chance to “people watch” soon took my mind off any discomfort.

I have participated in Gospel Music Association week for several decades, and it always amazes me how things have changed since the early years. Christians of all ages, shapes, and colors now converge on Nashville for the annual GMA convention and Dove Awards.* What used to be almost exclusively a Southern gospel music event has evolved to include Christian contemporary, Christian rock, black gospel, praise music, and even holy hip hop. It lifted my spirit and diminished my climb to see the different people God was using to bring seekers into His fold.

Once inside the lobby of the convention center, it took only a few minutes to pick up the Dove Award tickets I had come for. The young girl at the counter smiled and wished me a nice day.

“It’s all downhill now,” I said.

As I rounded the corner of the building on my way back to the car, I saw a beautiful planting of “wild” roses, something I hadn’t noticed on my climb. I stopped to smell them, and the fragrance was heavenly.

Strolling back down the hill, I thought about how often we struggle without taking the time to enjoy the beauty God has put in our path, especially when we are climbing. That beauty is often planted by others. Wild roses certainly don’t grow in the midst of concrete unless someone makes a special effort.

I was heartened that day by someone’s special effort—and the thought that once in awhile we can coast downhill, at least for a while.

I hope you find “wild roses” today. And, if you can, I hope you plant a few.

~ Kathy Harris

Revised July 16, 2011

*As of 2011, the Dove Awards were moved to the City of Atlanta. I’ll miss my annual trek up the hill to the convention center.

In September, more than 500 like-minded people will gather in Indianapolis, Indiana, for the American Christian Fiction Writers conference. If this is your first year to attend, you will be thrilled and amazed at the immediate kinship you share with other attendees. It’s a bit like discovering long lost family, i.e. hundreds of siblings separated at birth and reunited around the common love of writing and spiritual commitment.

I met Rachel Hauck at the ACFW conference five years ago. Although she was much further along in her writing journey, I felt an immediate connection. Many of my characters walk the streets of Nashville’s music district, and at that time she was working on her NashVegas series for Thomas Nelson. She is now the author of a dozen books, and her writing has taken exciting turns, including co-writing with country star Sara Evans. It was fun to reconnect with Rachel this week to talk about the 2010 ACFW conference.

Rachel Hauck

Rachel, you’re a past president of American Christian Fiction Writers, and currently serve as an advisor for the organization. Please tell us about the ACFW. How did you first become involved?

I’d met DiAnn Mills at Write to Publish in ’97 and she was a founding member of ACFW, then ACRW. She encouraged me to join, which I finally did. Then I met Lynn Coleman, founding member and president, at the Blue Ridge writer’s conference. She suckered me into being, I mean, she invited me to run for the Board but I was really busy. Then after the first conference in 2002, the Vice President resigned and the board asked me to step in the position. I agreed. Which also meant I was coordinator and conference chair of the 2003 conference. It was a wild year. I was writing my first book, managing the road warriors for a software company, and leading worship at my church, as well as working in youth ministry with my pastor husband.

The 2010 ACFW writer’s conference is scheduled for September 17-20, in Indianapolis, Indiana. If a writer has never attended an ACFW conference, what can they expect?

A great, warm, Holy Spirit infused atmosphere. They can expect to learn, to network, to see what goes on in the life of the writer. There will be good moments and ones with regret and sorrow. It’s all part of the process. A new conferencee can expect to feel overwhelmed and confused, but also excited and envisioned. If you want to be a novelist, you have no choice but to attend ACFW’s conference.

Are you teaching this year?

I am. Susan May Warren and I are teaching a continuing education class on scene structure. And I’m teaching a single workshop on metaphors and symbolism in our work. Come on out. Should be fun.

You’re the author of twelve books—with more on the way. How did you get started as a writer?

I always wanted to be a writer. I kept journals for 17 years. I doodle. I like words. My father always encouraged me to be a writer. After I was married, I left my corporate job for a season and was a stay-at-home wife. In the calm and quiet, I started writing. Christian fiction was just coming of age so I was reading Gilbert Morris, Lori Wick, and the Thoenes.

Was there an a-ha moment when you decided to turn your passion for writing into a career?

There were probably more “oh no” moments where I thought I wouldn’t make it as a writer. I suppose that question is still up for debate, but I’m writing novels for now and I love it. It’s been the dream from the time I was ten.

You’re a journalism major, as I am. In talking to others with that background, it seems we all tend to write tight first drafts with the need to add words for the final—the opposite of what a lot of writers do. Do you fit that mold?

Too funny. Yes. I also struggle to write pretty. I’m more plain, say it like it is. But I’m working on adding more lyrical prose while being true to myself. When I edit and rewrite, I might cut two pages of rambling down to one paragraph. If I don’t write tight in the beginning, I definitely do at the end.

It’s difficult to break into book publishing. What advice would you give young writers who are looking for their first break?

It’s difficult. But not impossible. For writers just facing the race, run hard. Run well. Don’t give up. This is a marathon, not a sprint. Really go to God and ask Him to open doors and confirm this desire. Writing takes up too much time and emotion if God has not really called you to do this. Don’t just assume, ask. I knew I wanted to be a writer, but there was a point where I said, “Lord, I don’t want to account for wasted time. Confirm to me I’m supposed to pursue writing.” Doors began to open.

That’s inspiring, Rachel. How does your faith play into your writing?

Whether we know it or not, faith plays into everyone’s writing. We all have some level of faith. We all believe in something. Be it humanism, liberalism, socialism, any of the “isms.” My faith just has a more purposeful and tangible part of the protagonist journey.

Has God ever provided an unexpected “detour” in your life that turned out to be positive?

My life is a life of detours. Every significant thing that’s happened to me from college to marriage to getting published came when I said, “God, I’m done trying. You got me. Do what You want with me.” The seal on the deal was the confession of His love and goodness. “You’re so good, whatever it is, I’ll love it.” He’s so faithful!

Writing is hard work. How do you discipline yourself to write every day? Do you have a writing routine? Where do you write?

I look at my deadline, the season of the year coming up, and plan how much time I have to write, then figure out how many words a day I need to put down for a first draft. I like to revise a lot, so the faster I write a first draft, the faster I can get to fixing!

When I first left the corporate world to write at home, I was really disciplined. I had sooo much time. Now that I’ve been home six years, I’m not as disciplined with my time. It’s easier to fritter. Plus, six years ago social media was not on the horizon. Participating in that changes my focus, often for the negative. Too many cyber conversations.

But I just grit it out. Get it done. I want to keep my deadlines.

Let’s talk about your latest book, written with country music star Sara Evans. The Sweet By and By was released in January by Thomas Nelson. How did the collaboration come about?

Thomas Nelson approached Sara about a fiction project. She loves to read and loves fiction. So, they asked me to write with her since she’s a songwriter not a novelist. I was honored to be asked. We get along well and she’s very easy to work with. It’s been a great experience.

Please tell us about the book.

The Sweet By and By is about healing relationships. Jade Fitzgerald is about to get married but she doesn’t want to invite her mother. Bery was a footloose and wild hippie and often left Jade and her siblings to be raised by their grandmother. Then Jade encountered an emotionally devastating event and gave up on her mother all together.

Sara liked flashbacks, so part of the story is told when Jade was a girl, then as a teen. But I worked hard to make sure the flashbacks launched off the present day stage. I learned a lot writing that book. It was fun, too.

Is there a future collaboration in the works?

Sara and I are doing four books together. There will be three in the Songbird Novel series. Softly and Tenderly releases January 2011. I’m writing book three now, tentatively titled Blessed Assurance.

Any other current projects for you?

My own book, Dining with Joy, releases this November.

A few fun questions…

When the words aren’t flowing—or when you want to celebrate if they are—what is your favorite comfort food and why?

I love a good sandwich with chips and nice cold Diet Coke. Yum!

This website features writers as well as musicians, so I like to mix it up a bit. Do you have musical, as well as literary, talent?

I don’t know if I have musical talent, but I am the worship leader at my church and I lead worship for the ACFW conference. I can sing. I taught myself to play keyboard, but it’s not pretty.

What kind of music do you listen to when you’re relaxing with the radio or an mp3 player? Does music help you write?

I love solid, in love with Jesus worship. Jesus Culture, Misty Edwards, Justin Rizzo. Misty and Justin are out of the International House of Prayer in Kansas City. I love Michael Bublé. I recently saw him in concert. He was fantastic.

But I’m a big country music fan. Sara has a voice to die for. I like Keith Urban.

I like quiet.

If you were a song, what kind of song would you be?

In some ways, I am a song. I’m a living, breathing song to the Lord. I love all kinds of music, and I’m about as non-religious as they come, but I really only love to sing and play songs from my heart to Jesus. I love a worship song that awakens love in my heart for the reality of who He is and His love for me. For all of us.

Are you a major or a minor chord?

Minor. Major minor. : )

In the story that is your life, are you the strong, female lead; the girl next door; the mysterious woman behind dark glasses; the super heroine; or the little girl trying to walk in high heels?

Strong female lead. Hubby just said so.

I’m a dog lover. Any pets?

Love animals. Love, love dogs. We’ve had four dogs and one cat in our 18-year marriage.

Thanks, Rachel! I hope to see you at the ACFW conference this year.

Thanks so much for having me! See you there.

~ ~ ~

For more information about the American Christian Fiction Writers conference in September, visit the ACFW website at www.acfw.com/conference.

For information about Rachel and her books, visit her website at www.rachelhauck.com.

In 1991, Shirley Hutchins found “paradise” when she moved to Nashville, Tennessee, to pursue a dream of working in the music business. Mentored and befriended by noted songwriter-publisher Marijohn Wilkin, Shirley soon made a place for herself within the entertainment community.

Almost twenty years later, she writes about a more universal paradise. A small town where love rules and time moves slower, a little bit of heaven on earth amidst a fast-paced life.

You are a songwriter, a publisher, and a music administrator. Which came first? How did you get your start in the music business?

Music was my first love. My first “press” photo, at age ten months, appeared in the baby photo section of our local newspaper back in Tyler, Texas. It reads, “She loves music and she loves to dance.” I remember “making up” songs as early as eight years old. My mother had an old upright piano. She played “by ear,” and that is how I learned. I was so blessed. Mom loved all kinds of music. I grew up with a wide range of music, from Tennessee Waltz to How Are Things In Gloca Mora to Shake, Rattle and Roll…or I Come To The Garden Alone (my mother’s favorite hymn), and everything in between. I still have a great collection of her old 78’s, as well as the 45’s and LP’s I had as a teenager.

Although I loved music and songwriting, I never pursued a career until the mid 80’s (after my children were in school). I joined a small songwriting group in the East Texas area. We were one of the first extension workshops for the Nashville Songwriters Association International. My first trip to Nashville, to an NSAI seminar in the spring of 1986, was the first time I had ever even flown in an airplane. I freely admit, I was just a “little country girl come to the big city.” That first trip was awe-inspiring.

My first job in the music industry was working in the office of the group Mason Dixon, based in Texas. My second trip to Nashville was to work their booth at Fan Fair. I was “hooked.” I loved the fans, the music, and I loved Nashville.

On a subsequent trip, I met Marijohn Wilkin, most noted for her gospel classic One Day At A Time. We coordinated a trip to New York in 1991 to the United Nations Earth Day celebration. She provided the solo artist, and I brought a children’s choir from the East Texas area. Our theme was We Are One, performing in front of the delegates and their children from every country as well as dignitaries and supporters from the United Nations. I had to pinch myself (more than once) to believe I was really there. Talk about a big city!

How do you spend your “average” day at the office?

I’m at the computer 8 to 5 most days. Three days per week I work from my home-office and two days per week on-site with clients on Music Row. Some days I am calculating royalties and preparing statements, other days I am preparing checks or reconciling bank statements or doing data entry. Every day I am endlessly checking emails to be sure I am on top of everything. My world is so virtual now. I can send contracts, register copyrights, do just about anything right from the computer.

For my own writing and publishing, I schedule demo sessions, line-up vocalists, attempt to get everyone’s schedules to match. Check the pitch lists to see if there is anyone recording who might “fit” one of my songs. I duplicate music to CD or prepare mp3’s and send music out to various artists, labels or contacts. It’s a juggling act to get it all in. I am very rarely “bored.”

You recently published your first fiction novella, entitled A Place Called Paradise. Please tell us about it.

The book was published by Walt Trott/ NovaNashville in July 2009. The story is about the Andrews family relocating…again. The father, Ted, is somewhat of an over-achiever. The family has moved a number of times. With each new promotion or new job opportunity, Ted promises “just one more move.” Mom, Melissa, tries her best to be supportive but she is growing weary of the nomadic life style. Children, Adam (10) and Sara (6) have no choice in the moves, but they wish for a forever home and Dad to be at home more to share it.

About 75 miles short of their destination, the Andrews’ automobile is almost involved in an accident. Shaken and tired, the family gets off the busy interstate in search of a place to eat and rest and shake off their frightening experience. This little detour places them on a two-lane country road that leads to the tiny township of Paradise. It must be a really small town. The Andrews can’t even find it on their road map.

Paradise proves to be quite a mystical place in the sweetest sort of way. The entire family is delighted with their discoveries…people, places, things. In a place called Paradise, they find their past and their future and what is most important:  their love for each other.

Where did you get the idea for the story?

My husband and I had taken a day trip. We love to wander through antique stores. Even if we don’t buy anything, it’s just a nice stroll down memory lane. Friends had told us about Bell Buckle, Tennessee, and the antique shops there. We drove out and found the most fantastic little town ever.

Bell Buckle was having a “reunion” parade that day. I think there were about ten entries in the parade:  a WWII tank, an old cannon, some WWII veterans in jeeps, a color guard, and a marching band. The local ice cream company had a huge black and white cow statue in the back of a flat-bed truck. My husband and I sat on the curb, eating ice cream, watching the parade go by. I could not have told you what year were we were in. It seemed so timeless. We could have been the 50’s or 60’s…we felt like kids again.

Late in the day, as we were driving back home, my husband made an off-the-cuff remark: “I know the Bible tells us about the streets of gold, but you know a little town just like that…now that would be “paradise” for me.” Ping! The idea went off in my mind like a light bulb. I could not wait to get home and start writing. I originally titled the work Paradise, Tennessee. When it was complete, though, I saw it was a more universal theme. Any place that reminds us of  our “home” (wherever home may be) is “paradise,” even if only for a few hours.

What do you most hope readers will take away from this book?

Hope…love…the all-knowing promise of brighter tomorrows…and the gentle reminder that family and love are so much more important than deadlines and careers and climbing any earthly success ladder.

How long have you been writing fiction? Are you working on another book?

I’ve been writing fiction a little over ten years now. I have two other books completed but not yet published: Love Notes From Jesus and Welcome, New Heart.

I have outlines for two (possibly three) sequels to A Place Called Paradise taking up where the first novella leaves off, following the family through the process of settling down in one place, the children growing up…the ups and downs of everyday life.

How does your faith play into your writing?

Faith is a part of almost everything I write now. My first gospel song was written in 1998 as I sat at the bedside of one of my favorite uncles. Hospice was there round the clock in those, his final days. To me, it seemed as though one could feel the presence of the angels. In the following years, with Marijohn I felt that presence again a number of times. As her health diminished, her faith increased and so did mine.

Has God ever provided an unexpected “detour” in your life that turned out to be positive?

Most definitely!!! More than one!!! My move to Nashville in 1991 was the biggest. A routine doctor’s visit found a growth on my thyroid. I was sent to a specialist and within days, I was in surgery having the “goiter” removed. As a matter of procedure, they send the tissue for testing. To my doctor’s surprise and to my horror, the test came back the growth was cancer. They had removed it all, but I had to undergo iodine therapy and keep a careful watch on my thyroid from that time on. What a wakeup call!! I had just returned to Texas from New York and the wonderful event at the United Nations. Now, I knew in my heart of hearts, if I was ever going to do anything with my music and my dreams, I had to be in Nashville to do it. I was in New York City, April 21, 1991. I had thyroid surgery in May, and I was moving to Nashville on June 18, 1991. It was a whirlwind detour!!

God bless my husband, Darrell; he moved to Nashville sight-unseen. He had never set foot in Tennessee before driving across the bridge in Memphis with our old gray-tabby tomcat in the carrier beside him. He says the cat meowed all the way…all 750 miles. Also being uprooted was our 17 year old daughter—from the only school she’d ever known, in the only town she could recall, population 689—to come to a high school with three times that many kids in the graduating class alone. She will tell you now it was the greatest detour in her life, but at the time, she was positive her life was ruined.

All I knew, at that time, was I had to do it and everything “fell into place” so easily. My husband was able transfer to Nashville with his job. Marijohn gave me office space in her building in exchange for answering the phone when she or her assistant were out. Then, over the next four years, she taught me as much as was humanly possible about the music business as she knew it. The business has changed a lot since then, but thankfully, with the foundation Marijohn gave, I’ve been able to grow with it. Much more than that, though, Marijohn was a great spiritual mentor to me. We were like “mom and daughter” from the time she was 71 (1991) until she passed away at 86 (2006).

Most writers are readers first. What genre do you prefer to read when kicking back with a good book? Any favorite authors?

Motivational-inspirational books are my favorite. I love Richard Bach and all of his books. I’ve reread ONE until it is dog-eared. I like Nicholas Sparks, James Patterson, and John Grisham for suspense.

I have less time for reading so I keep audiobooks in my car. I have a 45-minute commute to Nashville from my home in Mount Juliet near Old Hickory Lake. I spend that time with positive-thinking, uplifting books on CD.

A few fun questions…

When the words aren’t flowing—or when the royalty statement isn’t reconciling—what is your favorite comfort food and why?

Dark chocolate. A Hersey bar can solve just about any problem.

What kind of music do you listen to when you’re relaxing with the radio or an mp3 player?

Oldies, everything…pop, country and gospel…I am a child of the 60’s. I loved the music then and I still love it today. I can feel twenty years younger within ten minutes!

If you were a song, what kind of song would you be?

A country song…love lost…and found…overcoming all odds.

Are you a major or a minor chord?

I was born in March. I am a Pisces…the sign of two fish swimming in different directions. Therefore, it depends on which day you “catch” me whether I am a major or a minor chord. A balance of both make an interesting melody.

In the story that is your life, are you the strong, female lead; the girl next door; the mysterious woman behind dark glasses; the super heroine; or the little girl trying to walk in high heels?

I am the strong, female lead most of the time. Occasionally, I am the little girl trying to walk in high heels. In those times, I think of my mother, or Marijohn, or one of my other mentors Louise Scruggs or Ruth White…and I imagine how they might handle whatever the situation might be. One, or the combination of all these strong ladies who’ve meant so much to me, will always see me through those “faltering” moments.

Please tell us about your pets, your hobbies, your family, etc.

I grew up on a farm. Dad had cows, horses, ducks, chickens…you name it. I was raised like an only child (my siblings all being twenty plus years older) so the farm cats were my “family” playmates. I am one of those “cat ladies” to this day. At one time we were up to a dozen (a neighbor moved and left behind a momma and her litter of 6). I already had five. We managed, though. Some went to good homes and two stayed with us. We lost three of our menagerie to old age last year, so we are down to a just four cats now (two inside and two outside) and one dog.

I love genealogy and spiritual studies. A fun Saturday to me is being at the Tennessee Archives all day shuffling through old census records, microfilm, and books. A great Sunday afternoon is settling to watch “Bible Mysteries” or shows of that nature.

My husband, Darrell, and I will celebrate our 37th wedding anniversary this year. We have two daughters, Tessa and Kelley, who live nearby with their families. We’ve been blessed with four grandchildren (1 girl, 3 boys) and four great-grandchildren (3 girls, 1 boy). Add in our wonderful son-in-laws and we have a huge group in the Hutchins bunch.

Thanks, Shirley. It’s nice to have you at DivineDetour.com.

For more information about A Place Called Paradise and Shirley Hutchins, logon on to www.shirleyhutchins.com or www.aplacecalledparadise.com.

Homeschooling, carpooling, and writing are all in a day’s work for Carie Lawson, whose first novel was released this spring. A self-described “simple girl,” Carie loves the new technology of e-books.

Her Twisted Roots series is available in all popular e-reader formats.

You recently released your first novel, an e-book, entitled Beyond Africa. Please tell us about the story.

Africa was home to Lilly. When she finally makes it back to the Democratic Republic of Congo, she meets two men. Case, an American pilot who only wants to go home, and Sam, a three-year-old lost orphan who runs into Lilly’s arms and refuses to let go.

Case is immediately drawn to Lilly, her innocence and fragility, her kind heart. He doesn’t want to leave her alone in a country that can be turbulent. After a group of militants gets too close to the mission, Case talks Lilly into returning home with him to protect Sam.

When Lilly starts having romantic feelings for Case, she pushes them aside because he isn’t a Christian and doesn’t want to stay in Africa. Eventually Lilly will have to choose between what she knows God wants for her and what her heart wants most.

E-books are the “future now.” How do your readers relate to buying through this medium? When you’re promoting and/or interacting with readers, do you miss the brick and mortar connection? What are the pros and cons?

I think it’s becoming easier and easier to connect with a variety of people because of technology. Though my writing, I’ve had the chance to connect with readers through e-mail and Facebook in ways I couldn’t have in person. It’s been really fun. Of course, in some ways it’s easier to sell a book that’s in hand than one that has to be purchased through the internet.

As a busy mom, how I relate to the Kindle and e-books is that they are EASY and FAST. That is something we can all relate to. I don’t know very many people who aren’t looking for ways to make their lives simpler.

The day I fell in love with my Kindle was when we were packing to go on a trip. I always pack a couple of books and my Bible. (I have a secret fear of being somewhere with nothing to read.) Well, I downloaded a free copy of the Bible to my Kindle and picked out a couple of books that I wanted and threw the Kindle in my purse. No extra weight, no trip to Wally World to find the right book. I also have a Kindle app on my phone for those times when I didn’t think to pack my Kindle, but I could use a little reading material to pass the time.

Your second book, Beyond Summer, will be out in September (also with Desert Breeze Publishing). Is this a series?

It is a series named Twisted Roots. In it are the four separate stories of the McCord siblings. Zane is the second oldest brother. Oh my, he’s the stubborn one, the temper, the big heart.

He’s been burned once by a beauty who left Zane and their son behind for a man with a bigger paycheck. Carly, a former beauty queen, arrives in his life as a nanny for the summer. Zane has a hard time trusting her because of her pretty face. Just when he starts to believe that Carly’s beauty is more than skin deep, he finds out her secrets are bigger than his ex-wife’s.

Besides entertainment, what do you hope readers will take away from your books?

Love is a blessing. Love of your family, your spouse, your children. None of it should be taken lightly or for granted.

How does your faith play into your writing? Do you begin with an inspirational theme, or does the inspirational thread for each book evolve as you write?

I don’t think I either start with or look for an inspirational thread. God is just there. I hope He’s pleased with what I’m doing, that my stories might be illustrations of His principles and not lessons.

Lisa Whelchel in her book, Creative Correction, describes obedience to the Father as an umbrella of protection. God’s laws protect us from many of the hurts we experience in our lives. My books show the blessings of living under the umbrella and sometimes magnify the hair-and-makeup-ruining mess that can happen when we step out from under it.

Please tell us about your personal writing journey. How long have you been writing?

I started writing about seven years ago, when my daughter was a baby. I spent many hours typing one handed with her in my other arm. It became my favorite past time. Writing is what I love. I have no artistic ability whatsoever, but I like to paint pretty pictures and stories with words.

You are a home schooling mom of four. How do you find time to write? When/where do you write?

At our house, we have rest time. As a matter of fact, we’re having it right now : ) It’s usually an hour a day. The kids can read or color. Some of the time, they can play a quiet game in their rooms. The added side benefit is that all my kids love books. Part of that is because when given the choice between laying down and doing NOTHING and reading, reading seems like a pretty fun thing.

Who/what has influenced your writing career the most?

Without a doubt, the greatest influence has been Middle Tennessee Christian Writers. The opportunity to meet with other writers and learn, and share frustrations and joy has been a huge blessing.

Has God ever provided an unexpected “detour” in your life that turned out to be positive?

Oh, yes. I like the point when I can look back at a difficult time and see God’s hand. It’s so hard to see Him when I’m going through those unexpected detours. But when road is clear it’s nice to be able to look back and see His plans unfolding.

Most writers are readers first. What genre do you prefer to read when kicking back with a good book?

I am a romance junkie. I read other stuff, but I like the lighthearted, love stories the most. When I step into a book, I want to be happy. At least by the end of the book I want to be happy.

A small factoid many people may not know. You were the adult model for the cover of Jen Stephens’ book, The Hearts Journey Home. Have you done other modeling? Any career aspirations there?

It was so fun to do that cover with Jen and the photographer, Terri Pettit. The fact that Jen had that picture up in her head and knew how to translate it so well just amazes me.

And I definitely don’t have any career aspirations there. Had there been anyone else in the car with us when she asked, I’d have assumed she was speaking to the other person. It was an honor though, and something I’ll never forget. I had a friend of mine who read Jen’s book tell me that as she read The Heart’s Journey Home she compared Kate to me. She’d think to herself, “Carie would never say that” or “that sounds just like Carie.” It tickled me. (DD Note: Follow this link to The Heart’s Journey Home cover featuring Carie: www.divinedetour.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/THJHCMYKnoprint1.jpg.)

A few fun questions…

When the words aren’t flowing—or when you want to celebrate if they are—what is your favorite comfort food and why?

Coffee and chocolate. Without a doubt. Dark chocolate is best. As a matter of fact I just heard the timer on my coffee pot ding. Can you hear the coffee calling?

This website features writers as well as musicians, so I like to mix it up a bit. Do you have musical, as well as literary, talent?

Ahem…no. I wish. I do have a son who’s learning to play the drums. He likes me to try the different rhythms and laugh at me because I can’t begin to play them.

What kind of music do you listen to when you’re relaxing with the radio or an mp3 player? Does music help you write?

I love country music. It’s hard for me to write while listening to music because the words of the song interfere with the words in my head. I have enough trouble keeping the words in my head straight without any competition.

If you were a song, what kind of song would you be?

I’d without a doubt be a folk song. I’m just a simple girl.

Are you a major or a minor chord?

I’m not sure exactly what that means, but I’m guessing minor. I’m not the lead, just a support person.

In the story that is your life, are you the strong, female lead; the girl next door; the mysterious woman behind dark glasses; the super heroine; or the little girl trying to walk in high heels?

I’m the mom. A stereotypical mom—although I generally avoid baggie sweats, and we recently swapped the minivan with an SUV. Things that make me happy are the sound of the dishwasher running, an empty laundry basket, a grubby fist clutched around a handful of dandelions pointed in my direction.

Please tell us about your pets, your hobbies, your family, etc.

Writing really is my favorite—and probably only—hobby. I have great friends. We have a chocolate lab, Cocoa, who’s a sweetie. I love living outside of Nashville. It’s a wonderful place to raise kids.

Thanks for sharing with us, Carie!

Thank you for having me, Kathy!

For more information about Carie’s books, logon to http://www.carielawsonbooks.com/.

To order Beyond Africa for Kindle, logon onto http://www.amazon.com/dp/B003AKY3WS.

To order Beyond Africa for Barnes & Noble NOOK, logon to http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Beyond-Africa/Carie-Lawson/e/9781936000777/?itm=1&USRI=Beyond+Africa.

To order Beyond Africa for Sony e-Reader, logon to http://ebookstore.sony.com/ebook/carie-lawson/beyond-africa/_/R-400000000000000233111.

For more information about Desert Breeze Publishing, visit http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/.

Betsy Brumley was born into a musical family. If you’ve ever sung from a church hymnal or attended a Gospel singing, you can probably hum one of her grandfather’s tunes.

Albert E. Brumley penned classics like I’ll Fly Away, Turn Your Radio On, and I’ll Meet You in the Morning. His songs have been recorded by a prestigious list of artists—from Jars of Clay, Kanye West, Alison Krauss, Aretha Franklin, and Elvis to the Boston Pops Orchestra. Now, Betsy is working to continue her family’s legacy.

You grew up around music. Was there ever a time when you wanted to pursue another career?

I grew up loving two things: music and flying, and with flying I wanted to see the world. So after I got out of college, I decided to work for an airline and see the world. I did that for about ten years. Then I got married and settled down into the family business. I really didn’t have a choice other than music. It comes naturally and I love it.

Do you have a favorite memory of your grandfather? Are you carrying on his tradition as a songwriter?

I was my Grandpa Brumley’s favorite. I used to sit in his writing room and watch him all the time. He had two couches in his room: one for him and one for visitors. I would go in and lie on the couch and talk to him. Then after we would talk for a while, we would play catch. I had a little green ball that I kept at Grandpa and Grandma’s house and we would play with that.

As far as writing, I have written one song, but I didn’t really get that part of Grandpa’s gift. He was also a visionary and a pretty savvy businessman. He created his own publishing company, Brumley Music, in 1942 so he could own of all his copyrights. I think I relate more to that side of him than the songwriter part.

I’ll Fly Away Productions, a company you started with your husband Kevin about five years ago, is involved in many aspects of the music business, including television, video, Gospel concerts, etc. What’s an average day like for you? Is there one aspect of your job you like the best?

I am so blessed to be able to work so closely with my husband, and our office is at the house so our commute is just a few steps. I am usually up first and I have my quiet time for an hour or so, then I start in on emails and the “to do” list. Then Kevin joins me and we go over what we have going and what happened the day before. We try and prioritize what needs attention the most, but most of the time our plan is interrupted by a phone call and our plans change.

I spend a lot of time on the phone with folks we are working with on our events or TV shows. There are many tiny details that need to be taken care of so I make sure it all works. When it comes to the events, I make sure the fans get an experience they will talk about forever, but I also take care of my volunteers, crew, and stars. I really believe every single person is important and should be respected for his or her contribution to the event. I try to make everyone feel important and appreciated.

Kevin spends most of his day on the computer. He perfects the website and does all the editing for our commercials and our travel TV shows. He does tons of research to make sure we are up on the latest trends and incorporates them into our business.

Kevin also does all the royalty tracking and disbursement. Our Brumley Sing DVD has 206 songs on it and that is a lot to keep track of. He keeps track of all the bills and the different TV stations and who is playing what. He has such a big job, I am not sure how he does it all.

I went to culinary school so I cook most every day. While I cook, Kevin cleans up and does the laundry and the household things that need attention. Then we watch the DVR in the evening to finish most days. Kevin has his quiet time in the evening after I go to bed.

I know that I live a truly blessed life and I am so appreciative of the opportunities and the legacy I am a part of.

Let’s talk specifically about your Biscuits and Bluegrass Alaskan Cruise. First of all, what a great name. Where did you get the idea for it?

Biscuits and Bluegrass is a joint business with my sister, Elaine and her husband Brad. We have wanted to do a cruise for ten years, but it just never worked out until now. We decided to ask some of our friends in the business to see if they were interested in doing it with us and everyone was so excited, so we said, “Let’s just do it and see what happens.” We decided to change it up a bit and do a little cooking as well, so all of our stars will be doing some cooking demos for the fans that come along, as well as all the picking and singing. We were trying to think of a good name for the cruise and Kevin just blurted out Biscuits and Bluegrass. We loved it.

Who are your special music guests for the 2011 cruise?

We have invited Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver, Ronnie Reno and the Reno Tradition, Little Roy and Lizzy, Monroe Crossing, and Christy Sutherland. We may add to the line-up in the future.

Christy’s husband Matt is Barbara Mandrell’s son and he is a chef. He will be making Barbara’s favorite biscuits on the ship for everyone to taste. So we really are having biscuits and bluegrass on the ship. I am really looking forward to watching all the music stars cook and the beautiful scenery of Alaska.

What other events are coming up?

In August we will be having the annual Brumley Gospel Sing in Lebanon, Missouri. We are in our forty-second year and still going strong. People call it the “Granddaddy” of Gospel sings. This will be August 4-7. Four days and 40,000 fans from all over the U.S. and about seven other countries.

We are also in the planning stages of our new event, “Brumley’s Tailgrass Party.” We will be incorporating tailgating with Bluegrass music. This will be next June in Northwest Arkansas.

At this time we are looking into having a talent contest during the day while people tailgate and then have the Grammy and IBMA winning artists in the evening for a ticketed event.

On Day 2, we plan to have a BBQ contest during the day and then more award-winning bands at night. We think it will be a hit. We really believe people love to incorporate music, food, and family.

The dates, line-up, and venue will be announced soon.

How does your faith play into your work?

I believe God plays into every aspect of my life. He is there with me all the time. Since I love what I do, I never really think I am working. I just live my life and God puts opportunities and people right in front of me, and I say, “Thank You,” and go with it. Sometimes things don’t turn out how I think they are going to, but I just wait a little while and then I see what God meant to happen and go, “Oh, I get it now.”

Has God ever provided an unexpected “detour” in your life that turned out to be positive?

Oh my, yes. About five years ago I had a reaction to some chemicals, and I actually died and had to be brought back to life. It was an amazing experience, but after about a month of being home from the hospital, I woke up one morning and told Kevin that we needed to have our own TV show. Kevin said, ‘I know how to do that, I had TV courses in school.’ This was the first part of July. By October we had funding, and we shot our first show in April. Kevin and I had only been married about one and a half years, and I had no idea he knew anything about TV or how to produce a TV show. This was totally God.

Now we have our Live at the Brumley Sing TV show, and we produce some travel shows for a local station at home. We’re also wanting to take some cameras on the cruise with us and do some special shows from there.

A few fun questions…

This website is about music and writing, so I like to mix it up. What do you like to read when kicking back with a good book?

Actually, I am dyslexic so I really do not read much. But my favorite book was “Anne of Green Gables” growing up. I loved that she was never held by the constraints of others. She had her own way of doing things. I guess it reminds me of myself.

What is your favorite comfort food and why?

I usually want sushi. We have a great Korean place near us, and they actually deep fry this one roll, and that is what I want. So I can satisfy my love of sushi with my deep fried Southern traditions.

If you were a song, what kind of song would you be?

I would want to be a classic song that touches people and continually earns royalties for a really, really long time.

Are you a major or a minor chord?

I’d say a major. I tend to be the root of things and make a strong base for everything I do. But I would definitely say I was a shape note, cause what you see is what you get. You can tell everything you need to know about me just by looking at me.

In the story that is your life, are you the strong, female lead; the girl next door; the mysterious woman behind dark glasses; the super heroine; or the little girl trying to walk in high heels?

I am a bit of several of them. I am a very strong female in the business world. I am tough, but fair. But I really am just the girl next door. I am not into makeup or taking forever to get ready. I’m just me.

I think I am a smidgen mysterious too. I think a lot and keep many things close to my chest until I am ready to reveal them, so sometimes people have to guess what I am up to. And as far as a super heroine, I think all women are. We raise our families, keep the household running, keep an eye on the bank account, and work to make our lives the best we can be. We are all wonderful super women. However, I do wish I had that invisible plane once in a while.

I’m a dog lover, so I have to ask. Do you have pets? If so, what’s your favorite breed of dog and/or cat?

I love cats, but Kevin is allergic, and we travel so much I think it is unfair to have an animal. I wouldn’t want to put the responsibility of my pet on someone else or board it when I am gone. I also would rather not travel with an animal, because I have found it can be disrespectful to others around me at meetings or other functions when we go somewhere. If I was home a lot, I would probably have a pet, but right now it doesn’t fit into my life.

Thanks, Betsy! It’s great to have you at DivineDetour.

For more information about the Biscuits and Bluegrass Cruise, visit www.biscuitsandbluegrass.com.

For more information about the Brumley Gospel Sing, visit www.brumleymusic.com/Gospel_Sing.html

For more information about I’ll Fly Away Productions, visit www.ifaproductions.com.