Repost: See Glass Treasures

Today, I thought I'd share a very near and dear devotional post from way back when this blog first started! If y'all remember this post, then it's time for a reread. But, if you're new around here, then this is all new for ya and I hope you enjoy. This is the very first devotional I posted on Showers of Blessings! (The revised version...)

~*~

We have all broken glass before. When something as breakable and fragile as glass falls onto a hard surface, the outcome is it shatters. Haven't you ever cringed at the ear splitting sound of glass breaking? Or slowly opened your eyes to find a pile of sharp glass pieces? I think we all have. As they say, “Accidents happen.” 

Once upon a time, I was vacationing to Outer Banks, NC. The gritty sand, unique shells, gentle breeze, and the salty waves were everything a beach should be. We even got to see wild horses on the beach! One of the things I noticed was that everyone seemed to collect sea glass just as much as collecting the shells. Why would you want to keep discarded glass pieces found on the shore?

 Because they saw beauty in the smooth broken glass.

Here’s how it works. It's very similar to shells. Once the broken, sharp glass is in the ocean, it’s controlled by the water. When the water is calm and peaceful, the glass rests on the ocean floor while the water gently rolls over it. This also means that when the wind stirs the water into angry waves, the glass is swept up right in the middle of things.

It is tossed and turned, this way and that, all the while being washed to shore. Somehow, as the glass travels from deep water to the shallow beach, it is changed. What once was a rigid, sharp glass edge, has now become smooth and polished. What once was a discarded, broken piece of trash, has now become a treasure.

We are very much like sea glass. We are sinners, sharp and broken sinners. We live in a world of waves. Sometimes when things are calm and peaceful, we sink to the ocean floor and rest comfortably. Nothing messes with us down there, we think we are safe and like the way things are. We are in our comfort zone. We don’t want to change. 

But other times, when trials come our way, we are swept up in those waves. Tossed and turned. We try fighting it, but the current is too strong. It is uncomfortable and we feel like we are at the end of our rope. We think we can’t go on any longer, that there is no hope.

But wait. The Bible says to: Rejoice! Count it all joy. Because there is hope! 

There is Hope in the Lord. God is the One who is in control. Let us strive to be patient and trust the One who knows the biggest picture. Let us talk to God, tell Him our fiercest wave. Give it to God. Let go of whatever is keeping you sharp and broken. If we trust in Him, it doesn’t matter the size of the wave, let them crash around us. We have peace knowing that God is bigger. He is making treasure.

Romans 12:12 

“rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer;"

Just like the sea glass, as the waves toss and turn getting closer to the shore, we are getting closer and closer to our shore--heaven. Once we reach that shore we will be smooth, polished, whole, and clean from sin. We have to go through all these trials in order to be smooth. We have to be tossed and turned until we realize that God is the only One who can help us. After we give our burdens to Him, after we trust in Him, only then can we be changed. Only then, can our brokenness become beautiful. Only then, will we be found a true treasure!

We have a choice to make everyday in how we deal with our waves. Will we freak out and try to use our own strength? Or will we turn to God, trusting Him and giving Him our worries? 

Psalms 46:1-3

"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, Even though the earth be removed, And though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; Though its waters roar and be troubled, Though the mountains shake with its swelling."

James 1:2-6 

"My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and with our reproach, and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind."

~*~

Sooo, what did you think of this devotional? Did you like the parallel to sea glass? Have you ever collected sea glass? Comment below!

Many Blessings,

Brooklyne Elysse

The Mystery Blogger Award

Today, I'm doing a tag! The Mystery Blogger Award! Sounds cool, huh?

~Rules~

-Put the award logo/image on your blog (It's that pretty galaxy one^)
-Thank whoever nominated you and provide a link to their blog. (Thank ya so much, Kaitlyn!!)
-Mention the creator of the award and provide a link. (Okoto Enigmas)
-Answer the 5 questions you were asked. 
-Tell your readers three things about yourself.
-Nominate 10-20 people.
-Notify your nominees by commenting on their blogs.
-Ask your nominees any 5 questions of your choice, with one weird or funny question.

-Share a link to your best post.

1. What songs have you been listening to on repeat lately?

Ok, so my answer to this question doesn't really answer the question (lol, just a lil warning)... I've been listening to my Christian playlist when I've been feeling overwhelmed. A few songs on that list are Still, Beautiful Messes, Trust in You, and Look Up Child. Then, when I'm cleaning, I've turned on Air Supply. Then, if I need some motivation to workout, I've started to learn Gabby Barrett's new album (Goldmine) but the one song that I've found to be really good is Footprints on the Moon! :) 

2. What's a Bible verse you always turn to for encouragement?

Isaiah 41:10 

3. If someone were to ask you for FIVE book recommendations ONLY, what would you tell them?

Uhh, I'd look at them with wide eyes and then back to my bookshelf with wide eyes. I'd then shrug and try really hard to narrow down the towering stack of favorites. Then it all depends on who's asking. *sees how I'm just overthinking it in order to not answer* Ok, for real this time: The Fire in Ember, LFY in Sundance Wyoming, The Swiss Courier, A Distant Melody, Strangers and Pilgrims, and The Rawhiders.

4. If you could pick any sport to be super good at, what would you pick?

Well, I won't mind being better at volley ball. Or, it would be cool to learn flag football or soccer. I'm not terrible at sports, but I'm not the greatest either...

5. How much wood could a woodchuck chuck if a woodchuck could chuck wood?

A woodchuck would chuck as much wood as a woodchuck would chuck if a woodchuck could chuck wood. But if a woodchuck could chuck woodchucks chucking wood, then a woodchuck could chuck wood-chucking woodchucks. Wood you like me to continue? 

Three Things About Myself: 

1. I'm a very stick to the rules type of person, but for the life of me, I can't follow a strict recipe when I bake/cook. 

2. I have a very bad habit of falling for book sales. Last week, the library was having a sale... I got 14 books for $1! Then again today, I went to the library again for the same deal! Oh, and I also found a another deal and bought four books (one free!) at 11 o'clock at night. Just because I can't pass up a book deal. Now the problem is: finding time to read all these books! ...you see how this is a problem habit of mine? 

3. I watched Anne of Green Gable yesterday for the first time since I was like, five. So I didn't remember a lot of it! 

I'm not going to officially nominate anyone today, but if you'd like to do this, consider yourself nominated! Here are your questions: 

Questions:

1. What author do you look up to the most in your writing journey?

2. Have you ever tried sushi without the seaweed or the raw fish? (Side note: My go-to order is: cucumber, carrot, avocado, and sometimes cream cheese, in a soy wrap! So good!)

3. If your parents brought home a surprise puppy today, what would you name it?

4. What is one of your hobby's that you never get to do, but still list it as a hobby because you'd like to have time to do said hobby? 

5. How would one describe your wardrobe in three words? 

(If you don't want to do a whole post but still like my questions, feel free to answer them in the comments! XD) 

My Best Post: 

I can't decide! Don't make me decide! Ahem... Here's a couple favorites: 

Girl, there is so much more to you than just your hair

Mind over Matter, Trust over Fear

Always 

Alrighty! How did you like this post? Do you remember reading the posts I linked to? Are you going to answer any of my 5 questions from above? Comment below and lmk how your summer has been going! (Also, sorry if this post is formatted weird, I'm still learning this new blogger and kinda going crazy...)

Many Blessings,

Brooklyne Elysse

Choosing the Narrow Way

To me, choosing the "narrow way" means not confirming to the worlds standards and expectations. Living differently. Living God's purpose, not living for the worlds approval.

So many times, we get pressured in to what we think "should be" according to the worlds views, that we don't realize the importance of boldly standing up for the narrow way. Even if the path is unpopular.

Human nature puts a desire in individuals to feel accepted and to feel included. Being different is frowned upon. Having a different lifestyle is seen by mainstream as "weird." And it's hard to bear rejection. We wonder who's in our circle. Who can be counted on to see past the obvious differences we have with the world.

But here's the thing, as Christians, we are called to be different. (1 Peter 2:9) It's not an easy calling. But choosing the narrow way was never advertised as being easy. Narrow paths are rugged terrain. There will be trials and obstacles in the way. (James 1:1&2) But, we have this Hope. Jesus is our hope.

When Jesus was on the earth, He had a major following. But He was also rejected. He didn't have many close friends at all, and His disciples--who were in his closer circle--doubted in Him. But Jesus had a higher calling. And He didn't falter in His mission despite the many challenges He faced.

So what does it take to live differently, live bolder, in a world that makes it feel like traveling the narrow way is really swimming upstream? The current can be so strong against those who swim upstream. 

First off, we need Jesus. He is our example, because He has already traveled this difficult path. And He is always here to listen to us, helping us with His righteous right hand. 

Prayer is also so important. (1 Thessalonians 5:17) If we aren't connected, and really rooted in our relationship with our Heavenly Father, we won't be able to stand against that current I was talking about. So staying connected is key. If you really want to know someone, you have to spend time with them. Same goes for spending time with Jesus. If we want to know Him more, then we need that one-on-one time spent in His presence.

After we are grounded in Jesus, all the other characteristics needed in order to travel the narrow way will fall into place. Once your mind is focused on Jesus, then the worlds shiny standards won't seem so popular in your own eyes. (2 Corinthians 4:7 "For we walk by faith, not by sight.") We won't need the approval of our peers, because we have put our identity in Jesus Christ our Lord. We will desire to be bold for Him. We will make hard decisions in order to not be a "follower" of the world, but rather a follower of God.

This is my hope, that those reading this, and myself, will yearn each day to strengthen our relationship with God. To dive deep into scriptures and search for the Truth of His Word, not fixating on the lies of the world, but pointing our eyes towards the One true Light of the world. (John 14:6)

What are some Bible verses that bring you comfort when you feel like you are swimming upstream? Comment below!

Many Blessings,

Brooklyne Elysse

10 Fun Summer Activities // Guest Post

Good morning all! Today, I am super excited to share a guest post from one of my sweet friends and dedicated blog readers, Patience!

Need something fun to do this summer? Look no further, because Patience has made an awesome list of activities to do!

**All the pictures are from Pinterest except the sunset one. (That was taken by Patience herself!)

1. Go Swimming
Whether you have a community pool, your own backyard pool, or a beach, swimming is my number one favorite activity to do in the summer!🏊🏻 It's a good way to cool down on a hot day.☀️

2. Go for a Bike Ride
Bike rides can be a lot of fun and relaxing. I like biking around different neighborhoods with my family🚴

^^ This is such a pretty picture!

3. Make Lemonade
This is the perfect drink on a hot day! And it's not too difficult to make🍋

4. Go for a Hike
Find a nice trail or park in your area, and go for a hike with your family or some friends😀

5. Make Something
You can either try out a new craft, knit something, or write a letter to a friend.📝  Be creative!

6. Read a Book
Find a shady area, and you could even read outside📚

7. Try a New Hairstyle 
It might take some practice, but it's  fun to find a new style you like!

8. Have a Barbecue/Picnic
Get together with family or friends and have a barbecue or picnic! And if you have a fire, you could even make s'mores😋

^^ Yum!!

9. Watch the Sunset
All the different colors are so pretty and it's so much fun to watch!

10. Go on a Road Trip 
Road trips are one of my favorite things to do.😊 Even if it's not far, going somewhere with my family is always special!❤️

Thank you so much for guest posting on Showers of Blessings, Patience!!! I LOVE your list... and now I'm craving s'mores! *winks*

What was your favorite thing on this list? On a scale of 1-10, how burnt do you like your marshmallows? When's the last time you went swimming? Comment below! 

Many Blessings,

Brooklyne Elysse

Top Ten // Movies + Books

Liberty always does Top Ten posts on her blog (she has a AWESOME blog, so be sure to check it out and give her a follow!), and I thought it might be fun to do one--or at least a version--of my own post! Hope you don't mind me stealing your blog idea, Liberty! *winks*

So today's post is going to be talking about top ten movies and books!

Movies:
Mom's Night Out!!
Soul Surfer
Courageous
While You Were Sleeping
Parental Guidance (So funny!)
Yogi Bear (lol)
Playing With Fire (lol)
The Greatest Showman (musical)
Moondance Alexander
Wild Hearts Can't be Broken


Movie Series/Shows:
Sue Thomas: F.B.Eye!!
Road to Avonlea
Man from Snowy River: The McGregor Saga
Signed, Sealed, Delivered
A-Team
Wind at My Back
Full House
The Dick Van Dyke Show
Father Murphy
The Waltons
...and many more!

Books: 
The Fire in Ember!!
The Rawhiders
Love Finds You in Sundance, Wyoming
Love Finds You in Last Chance, California
A Distant Melody
The Swiss Courier
Strangers and Pilgrims
Dangerous Decision
Where Two Hearts Meet

Indie Books:
Freedom!!
Dandelion Dust
Behold
Love Needs No Words
Martin Hospitality
Beloved
The Old River Road
Bound
Never Say Goodbye
Live Without You

Book Series:
Circle C Adventures by Susan K. Marlow!!
Serenity Inn by Kay D. Rizzo
The Chloe Mae Chronicles by Kay D. Rizzo
Prince Edward Island Dreams by Liz Johnson
Homestead by Stephen Bly
The Skinners of Goldfield by Stephen Bly
The Wells Fargo Trail by Jim Walker
Love Finds You (Sundance, Silver City, and Victory Heights just to name a few!)
Swiss Agents (The Swiss Courier + Chasing Mona Lisa)
Ladies of Harper's Station
Honorable Mention: the Wings of Glory series by Sarah Sundin

What's your favorite Movie? What's your favorite Series? What's your favorite Book? What's your favorite Indie Book? What's your favorite Book Series? 

Comment Below the number one in your top ten! 

Many Blessings

Brooklyne Elysse

Liebster Award

Today's post is the Lobster Award!!! Many thanks to Leah for nominating me for this award/tag!

Rules:
1. Thank the person who nominated you. (Thank you, Leah!)
2. Display your award (Up above!)
3. Answer the questions you were asked
4. Nominate 5 other bloggers
5. Ask 6 new questions
6. Let your nominees know they were nominated.
7. Have fun!

My Questions from Leah:

What is your favorite dessert? 
My favorite dessert is FROZEN HOT CHOCOLATE DRINKS && ice cream. But basically anything chocolate, peanut butter, caramel, or cookie dough. Ok, I'm actually pretty flexible when it comes to desserts so it might be easier to list what I don't like: twizzlers, licorice, custard filled doughnuts, marzipan, and yogurt/pudding.

If you could travel anywhere, where would it be?
I'd love to go to Alaska someday. Also, Australia to see some awesome peeps.
Oh, and Yosemite would be cool! (And the Grand Canyon!! XD)

What is your favorite thing to do in the summer? 
I love hiking, jet skiing, swimming, bike rides, grooming Rosie, taking walks, kayaking, gardening, etc! Sorry, can't just pick one thing!

What is your favorite book of the Bible? 
I've always liked the book of James.

Would you rather have a dog or a horse? 
Ahhh, such a hard question!!! I love both!!!!!

Do you have any pets? If so, how many and what are they?
Yes!! We have four horses and a mini, two Nigerian Dwarf goats, two mini pigs, 11 chickens, 6 barn cats, 1 indoor cat, and 5 dogs! I love having animals! <3

I nominate:
Faith
Kaitlyn
Rebekah
Patience (in the comments!)
Julian 

New Questions for y'all:

1. What is your top three (baby/book character) names? 
2. Do you like flowers for their shape, scent, or color?
3. What is your ideal vacation spot? 
4. Favorite book genre and why? 
5. What is your favorite way to hear from your friends? (text, happy/snail mail, surprise visits, etc)
6. If you could pick one thing to be super good at, what would it be? 

Did you like reading this tag? What is one of your favorite books in the Bible? Favorite thing to do in the summer? Lets talk about it below! 

Many Blessings,

Brooklyne Elysse 

Workout Tips from a Amateur

Hey y'all!

Those who know me, know that I have a love hate relationship with working out. Today's post is going to be 10 tips from a gal who loves (and hates) working out, but isn't a pro by any means.

1. Drink your water

During your workout when you're huffing and puffing: drink your water.
After cardio: drink your water.
When you're super sore after your workout: drink your water!

2. Have a recovery day

I usually take the weekends for a recovery day. Sometimes we will just stretch. It's good to give yourself a rest, and let your sore muscles recover.

3. Confuse your muscles // Have a plan (a workout regimen)

Ok, so this is important! Don't just find what works for you and do it every day. Don't do the same workout without mixing it up. The idea is to confuse your muscles so you can build muscle. Have hard and light days. On light days, do more but with lighter weights. On heavy days, do less but heavier weights. If you're doing cardio, mix up the workout moves. Etc.

4. Remember to count reps && have good form

This is key, because I forget to count my reps so many times! Focusing on how many reps is so important! I usually shoot for three sets, 10-15 reps each. Say, if your doing a simple curl, you'll count to 10 curls and you'll do it three times.

Also, if you don't know how to do something, research it. Don't hurt yourself with bad form.

5. Music helps!

Make a playlist that motivates you to move! Whatever songs give you energy. Because... you'll need it!

6. Get yourself an accountability partner

My family is so important in helping me get out of bed in the morning to workout. Having someone to encourage and motivate you along is where it's at.

7. Set aside time to workout

Working out is one of those things that will get pushed to the side. It just happens. So make sure to block out time to workout. Usually for me, it's in the mornings (because i'm too tired at night...) But find whatever works for you, and stick with it!

8. Wear deodorant 

Lol. Yes, trust me, just do! (Also, natural is best!)

9. Have the right gear

If you are doing a ab video, get a mat. If you are jogging, wear the right outfit. (Good tennis shoes!) If you are lifting weights, have the right equipment. Don't sabotage yourself by not being prepared.

10. Have fun!

Yes, that's right. Feel the burn, sweat like crazy, but have fun with it!

~~~

Here is part of the plan I just made for working out... thought y'all might find it helpful.

~Workout Plan~ 

Weekly Schedule:

Sunday: Stretch

Mondays: Upper Body = Triceps and Biceps // pushup training

Tuesdays: Run 2 miles (speed) + T25 (<< It's a cardio video)

Wednesdays: Legs + Abs // pushup training

Thursdays: Run 2 miles + T25

Fridays: Upper Body = Shoulders + Back // pushup training

Saturday: Rest

Who all likes to workout? Tell me about your workout schedule in the comments below! 

Many Blessings,

Brooklyne Elysse

Book Series Spotlight

Today, I'd like to talk about a series I just recently completed! The Wings of Glory series by Sarah Sundin. This is the first series I've read by Sarah Sundin, and so far, I have really enjoyed her writing style (though she doesn't shy away from the harder topics.)

My Reviews:

Book One: A Distant Melody 

Why in the world did I not pick this book up sooner! A Distant Melody is now one of my most favorite books EVER! I absolutely loved it!!! (sorry if this review is a little all over the place!)

From the perfect cover to the story inside, this book was phenomenal! What can I say? When I read the very last page, I was sad because I didn't want it to end.

Allie and Walt "Preach" are so wonderful together. These two main characters came alive to me, they were very real and really just the best! In fact, all of the characters in this book were extremely well written! Oh man, did Baxter and Allie's parents make me mad, though! And it was tragic about Frank...

I loved the friendships! Especially in the first of the book! And it was so neat to see Allie and Walt's friendship-turn-to-something-more throughout the letters! But, honestly I think that happened even before the letters began! <3

Just watching how Allie grew from the first of the book to the last of the book was amazing. Nothing was rushed, and I just loved how her character developed!

I love the way Sarah Sundin was able to weave her words in such a way that there was some real heart to heart lessons to be learned, but then at the same time, there was a few moments when there would be teasing or just plain cuteness happening! Both of these combined and it made for the most enjoyable read! (Honestly, if the book I write someday is half as good as A Distant Melody, I would be overjoyed!)

There is only two things that could have been different in my mind, one of which was that I felt like the plot wasn't going anywhere, or maybe I am used to faster paced plots. For most of the book, the two were separated because of the war. Because of this, I felt like I was reading the same scene twice from both sides... There was plot twists, and miscommunications, but I didn't really feel like there was a huge climax to the story. The second thing was the miscommunications. They were vital to the story, but after a while, I got a little tired of the two main characters not being on the same page with each other and the very complicated web of lies surrounding their relationship.

The history throughout this novel was well written! There wasn't too many facts that made it seem like a non-fiction history book. It was definitely enough fiction for me, but also enough real history to satisfy!

I absolutely LOVED this book so much! A Distant Melody definitely deserves five shiny stars, if not more!

Book Two: A Memory Between Us

3.75 stars

Well, I really enjoyed reading this second book in the Wings of Glory series by Sarah Sundin.

The cover is so perfect for the story! I really liked Ruth and Jack. And I thought it was sweet to have the reoccurring inside joke rhyming with moon, and June. As much as I liked these two main characters, my favorite characters would by far be their friends- Charlie and May! (this couple needs a book about them!)

I also thought that it was cool to hear more about Walt and Allie from the first book (love those two!)

The author of A Memory Between Us did an amazing job with this book, and I love her writing style so much!!! :) I am so looking forward to reading more books by Sarah Sundin!

I liked how each main character had a fear they had to overcome, and the message I received was of letting God have control and putting our trust in Him (Giving Him our worries and fears.)

This book dealt with some very hard topics including rape. And for this reason, I do NOT recommend this book to younger readers, or readers sensitive to this subject.

I was not bothered by the main character (Ruth) remembering her past, but when her past became a reality for her to overcome at the end of the book, that part bothered me. That is why I have such a hard time rating this book. On one hand it was a great book, but on the other, I felt like that last part (where both main characters had to face their fears- literally) I felt was unnecessary to the story. Too much detail for me. In other words, if my family were watching that last scene (involving Burnsy) as a movie, my parents would be quickly jumping up for the remote to turn it off...

In my mind, they could have overcome their fears (for Jack it was water and drowning, for Ruth it was a hard past including evil men...) without having to go through what they did. If I were to rate chapters 49 through 60, my star rating would be considerably lower. But I decided to give the overall book a 4 stars (3.75).

In the end, I really liked reading this book and it helped pass the time on my return trip (a five hour drive!) I am excited to continue on with this series!

Book Three: Blue Skies Tomorrow 

Ok y'all! What an end to the Wings of Glory series!

Both characters had to overcome their fear. And this was such a great message to the book. I loved how they held each other accountable and really stood strong when they were tempted to just fall back into the familiar fear patterns. Also, the characters grew so much thought these pages!

I especially loved learning and reading about this timeframe.

The cover (and really the covers in the whole series) is AMAZE! Just, perfect! <3

The characters: for the most part, I really liked them. There were a few things that I didn't care for (more so in regard to Helen.) But, she grew on me. And some of the side characters... hmm.

Honestly, the back of the book didn't even begin to explain the complicated story inside. The plot thickened pretty fast. And you could really see the internal struggle that the characters had. Helen was between a rock and a hard place, for sure.

The romance was a little on the heavy side for me. Didn't care for that part, especially so soon at the beginning.

This book dealt with some tough topics ** Spoiler alert: Helen's late husband and father-in-law were abusive. And there was details shared. ** End spoiler.

It suffice to say, is for older readers in my opinion. Definitely mature content...

But, life is real. Life is hard. And this book didn't shy away.

I loved seeing the other characters from previous books! That was a plus!

Overall, this book was really good and I'm sad to see the series come to an end. My favorite was book one, and I liked book three better book two.

Thanks for reading my review! I hope these thoughts helped you decided if you'd like to read Blue Skies Tomorrow. (Also, sorry this review is all over the place!)

Have you read this series? If so, what's your favorite book?? 

Comment below! 

Many Blessings,

Brooklyne Elysse

Cover Designing Tips from a Amateur

Hola!

Today, I'd like to talk about COVER DESIGN. One of my favorite creative hobbies. I'm learning new cover design skills everyday. But I'm still a amateur... So, today's post is all about cover design tips from yours truly!

1. Font's will make or break your cover

I couldn't stress this enough! The fonts you use on your cover set the mood. The way they look automatically make the viewer think of something. This happened to me the other day. I was designing a cover and picked this cool "handwritten" font. But as I looked at it, I kept thinking "crayon"  and that simply didn't fit the vibe that I was going for. It looked too childish, so I went with something more formal.

Also, don't overwhelm the cover with fonts. I typically use two fonts per cover (I like using one calligraphy font pared with a regular type font.) Three tops. It can get too crowded when there are lots of different fonts.

This might be the most crucial decision when you are designing a cover. And this is what most likely will take me the longest when designing. Such a agonizing decision (too many choices!) but SO worth it!

2. Go for coordinating colors

The colors you pull out really matter in your cover! If you are using two pictures that have way different color schemes, they aren't going to go well together. The colors you pick should match, coordinate, and flow well.

And obviously don't use red and green for a summer cover.

In my covers, I'm drawn to neutral, earthy colors. Though there is a place for bright and pastels as well. Again, setting the mood for the cover (and essentially the story inside.)

3. Use good quality pictures

Quality pictures.
Quality pictures.
Quality pictures.

Ok, yes. It's very important to have good quality pictures! And it's equally important to have the photos go with the story/book. If it's about a animal shelter, don't put a kid's playground on the cover. That would be random. If it's about Alaska, don't put a photo of the beach. Etc.

On a side note: I currently use free pictures from Canva. But eventually, I'd like to start taking a few of my own pictures for my covers. A personal touch is always neat.

4. Make sure everything is center (or off center if that's what you're going for) 

It bugs me when the title is off center. Especially when it's supposed to be center. Now, if it's supposed to be off center, go for it. But, please, be picky on what's center and what's off center. You'll save a lot of heartache from picky cover critiques like *looks around* (am I the only one?)

5. Have a clear focal point

What do you want to stand out? What is the "Point" of this cover? What message do you want to get across? What do you want potential readers to think of when they see this cover?

Make it clear your focal point. It's confusing when there is too much going on and none of it seems to go with each other.

6. Make sure the title and the picture complements each other

This is a key importance! First off, make sure your title goes with the cover. If the title is "Paper Airplane Letters," make the photos you use work for it. Don't confuse your viewers. Make sure to include airplanes, paper, kids arts and crafts, something to tie into the title. Secondly, if the title doesn't have a place to fit comfortably on the cover, something needs to change. You can't just slap a title over your picture, not caring what the words are covering up. Make sure there is a clear area to put the title so it won't get "lost" in the cover picture. I see this happen a lot. You don't want your future readers to have to squint hard in order to read the title of the book. So definitely make sure the title is clear and readable!

7. Don't make it too complicated, but don't make it simple

I'm confusing you, sorry. Let me explain. If your cover is super simple, it won't look professional. But on the other hand, if it's "too much razzle" (lol, I'm quoting Yogi Bear. If you know, you know) Anyway, if it's too much... Well, it also won't be professional. There is a fine line that cover designers walk.

8. Make sure the cover fits the genre 

Yes! Do your research! Observe other covers in the correct genre. If you're working on a fantasy cover, your aren't going to be looking for soft and whimsical. If your working on a Historical cover, you aren't going to be looking for modern pictures. If your working on suspense, you want to look for something bold. Etc. Go with your gut. And try to customize the cover to the story as best you can. I always love it when there is something on the cover that ties really well with the story inside...

9. If it's in a series, be thinking of ways to "match" it with all the books in the series

I love it when series have similarly designed covers! They match and fit, and it just makes me smile. (I especially love it when the spines of the covers match and look nice together.) But this is something to think about when designing covers for a series.

10. Think professional 

This is so important, guys! Everyone judges a book by it's cover. You want the cover you design to make a good first impression. I always show my designs to my sister and if they don't work, she will be honest (Sometimes brutally honest) but 99% of the time, she's right! And I hear this a lot: "this one looks too self published." No offensive to self published books, but I have to say, a LOT of self published books have covers that aren't professional at all. The self publishing industry has come a LONG way, but yeah, the goal is for covers to look like there was a lot of time invested in their design. Time and thought, not something just haphazardly put together on a whim. That's the goal anyway!

Are you interested in Cover Design? 

If so, what's one of your tips? What did you think of theses tips? 
Comment Below!

If you're interested in seeing any of my designs, make sure to visit my Design Portfolio page!!

Many Blessings,

Brooklyne Elysse