Meet Exhibiting Author Barbara Ann Gareis

by Barbara Ann Gareis

I’m your average, ordinary girl. Like everyone else I know, I’ve had my share of trials. The good thing is that I’ve learned (and am still learning) to forgive others, hold onto hope, let go of bitterness, and cherish every precious minute with my loved ones.

I wanted to share my experiences as a way to encourage others during difficult times, so I started a blog called “Sharing Hope”. Then I wrote an inspirational book called “100 Blessings.” It was published last year by Westbow Press, a division of Thomas Nelson & Zondervan. It’s a quick read and includes space in the back where you can list your own blessings and refer to them when you start to become discouraged. Here’s how the back cover reads:

Have you ever wanted to crawl into bed, cover your head, and stay there until things got better? Difficult times are inevitable. There is no doubt about it. Whether you have experienced the loss of a loved one, an illness or injury, unemployment, financial difficulties, or a strained relationship, the hope that flows from “100 Blessings” will fill your heart and give you the will to press on.

Learn to be grateful in the midst of adversities. Discover how to be content in all circumstances. Grasp the importance of being still and faithful. Barbara shares her own experience with overcoming fear, being patient, and persevering with trust when situations are challenging and don’t make sense. Find out what the Bible says about tragedies such as the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting and know that God loves His children more than we can comprehend.

“100 Blessings” is about life. It’s about trials, tragedies, and tears. More importantly, it’s about the promise of hope, strength, and comfort. Through personal stories of challenges and those highlighted from the Bible, you’ll be reassured that God’s blessings are abundant and He is always with you.

I recently finished writing “Dancing with Daddy – A Memoir of Life, Love, and Hope,” and I just started searching for an agent to represent me. You can read more about this book on my website.