Tag: #news

On Hiatus From Social Media

On By Betty OwensIn Betty Thomason Owens, WritingLeave a comment

Approximately six weeks ago, I decided to take a short hiatus from social media. Life is short–too short to waste precious moments staring at a screen (including this one). If you are reading this, thank you for your precious time. As soon as you finish, consider taking a walk outside, weather permitting. Sit on the porch or plant your bare feet in the grass and wiggle your toes. Feel the wind on your face. Listen to the birds. Breathe. Relax. Repeat.

I have discovered a vast [sizable] [imposing] block of time.

At first, I didn’t know what to do with it. Then, one day, I realized something. Oh, the places I can go and the things I can do.

  • I finished projects I had once started and never finished.
  • I read books.
  • I talked to friends and family.
  • I spent time studying the Bible.
  • I listened to podcasts.
  • I weeded my flower beds and planted annuals. Re-potted and rearranged perennials.
  • I cleaned my house.

When I stopped wasting hours on the phone checking this and that, I had time to do the things that really matter.

No more excuses.  

Yes, I’m retired. I have taken some time off between writing projects to rest and recover. I realize not everyone has that luxury. I am thankful for every moment.

So, for a time, you will not find me on social media. I’m not sure whether this may become a permanent departure. Time will tell. I’m praying about it.

Though I miss seeing your posts, your pics, and your lovely faces, I do not miss the interjected posts and comments of those who wished only to debate and push hatred. “Disturbers of my peace.” I tried to block them, but that didn’t work. So, I had to make a difficult choice. I started with a short fast from certain accounts. When it ended, I had no desire to go back.

If you need me, I’m here. You can reach me through my blog, email, or on Messenger. Family and friends, feel free to text or call.

The aim of our charge is love that issues from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith. 1 Timothy 1:5 ESV

When Last I Posted

On By Betty OwensIn Betty Thomason Owens2 Comments

Where has the time gone? As 2022 winds down, I’m catching my breath. But what a year it’s been. I am working on book two of the Home Found series – title to be announced at a later date. I have enjoyed discovering Lisa’s story. Jake has become one of my favorite characters. In book two, his “On the Road” columns are growing in popularity. Which is a good thing, unless you’re trying to blend in.

I know I left my readers hanging at the end of Still Water. It was unfair of me to do that so, I’ve thought of a way to fill the void between the books. Jake sends Lisa post cards. If you’ve read Still Water, you’ll remember who “R” and “LJ” are. If you haven’t read it, or have forgotten who they are, Lisa is “R” and Jake is “LJ.” Can’t tell you more than that without it being a major spoiler for those who haven’t read it yet. 🙂

Here’s a sample of what you can expect in the interim:

Lisa will write journal entries or send letters (via FBI Special Agent Zach Farrow). Here’s a sample of one of Lisa’s journal entries:

By the way, what do you think Jake means by the “AML” in his note? It was 1972–pre-cell phone and pre-text days. I will continue to post these updates at least through Lisa’s Christmas break, because something really special happens (no, it’s not a proposal). I hope you’ll watch for more of these coming soon.

A bit of business news. I have moved my website to a new host. It seems happy here, but some of my followers are telling me they no longer receive email when I post. (To be honest, those posts have been few and far between lately). If you have previously followed this blog and no longer receive email notification of a new post, you may want to refollow.

If you are my friend on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter, I’ll share the post there. You can find links to all of my media on my “About” page – Author Media.

Newsletter News! If you’d like to sign up for my newsletter–I love to do surprise giveaways. Click here to sign up.

Coming Soon! I was invited to write a cozy mystery novella, along with six or seven other authors. Those will begin releasing in early 2023. There will be games and clues and giveaways involved with all of the releases. Sounds like fun, huh?

It’s fall, y’all, and we are headed into the last couple of months of the year. Winter is upon us. The holidays are coming. Sometimes we feel weary and overwhelmed. In those times, I love to reread one of my favorite scriptures. I hope it blesses you, too. Thanks for stopping by!

…but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.

Isaiah 40:31 ESV