I am writing to you from one of my favorite places —Hilton Head, South Carolina. In fact it was a trip to Hilton Head quite a few years ago that motivated me to write “Marching Through Culpeper.” My daughter Amy and one of her college friends accompanied us, and Amy insisted that we tour Savannah because she had just read “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.” When we took the tour every other word out of the tour guide’s mouth was about someone or some place in “the book.” It was obvious that Savannah’s tourism had mushroomed since the publication of “the book.”

Because Culpeper County was striving to promote tourism, I decided Culpeper needed a book—a book of historical fiction that would transport the reader back in time and make them part of the action. My goal was to shower my community with the financial blessings of tourism which increase the quality of life for all. And to date over 4500 people have taken my Culpeper Civil War tours. But we’ve only touched the tip on the iceberg.

A few years ago I was interviewed by Chris O’Donnell on Hilton Head’s “Books and Authors” show. Chris is a real history buff, and thus I feel this was my best and most informative interview. He made a statement that stuck in mind and that bodes well for the future of Culpeper’s Civil War tourism. He said, “After reading ‘Marching Through Culpeper,’ I’ve realize that Culpeper was really the EPICENTER of the Civil War.” I invite you to click here to watch the interview.

I’ve also had the opportunity to speak and promote my book throughout the Hilton Head region. I’ve been graced with warm hospitality and enthusiastic audiences during my speaking engagements in Savannah, Columbia, and Charleston. Saturday night I will return to Augusta for my third venue. And last year I spoke at a luncheon for the most fun group of all—the Red Hat Ladies of Sun City.

As I stroll the white beaches of this scenic and historic isle, I admit I have visions of Clara Barton and her beloved Col. John Elwell racing their horses through the surf. (Don’t miss Hidden History!) We have become a visual society and a vision has 70 times more impact on us than the written word. Therefore I want to assure you that I am moving forward with the “Marching Through Culpeper” screenplay and movie project. I thank you for your prayers, and because of them God is opening doors. Stay tuned. I intend to give you an update in my next issue.

Prayer Power:

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for the infinite beauty of your creation. You made every grain of sand, every graceful bird that glides into the glistening water. Thank you for giving me time to relax and to fellowship with You in peace and quiet. I pray that each one reading this will set aside quiet time every day to read Your word and to be alone in Your Holy presence. You Lord Jesus are the vine, and we are the branches. We can do nothing without you. Prune us so that we can bear more fruit for your Kingdom.

In the precious name of the True Vine, Jesus Christ, Amen.