All this time, I thought my life was something I needed to build.
Maybe instead of creating my life, I needed to find it… by noticing the little things.”
~ Billy Coffey’s Peter Boyd in debut novel, Snow Day
When life’s disappointments threaten to make you ordinary, God steps in to bring faith back into your story.
I was born on the streets of San Francisco Chinatown. A city girl.
Our family later moved away, trading an apartment for a duplex that sat smack dab in one of the busiest intersection of Silicon Valley. In that 800 square foot home, I journaled my way through childhood, listening to the roar of county transit buses running the yellow light in front of our driveway.
Through my bedroom window at night, shadows would flicker onto my wall as headlights from street traffic drove by. Our place was constantly awash with sound and light, but my life was familiar with dark nights.
What I feared most was living a small and insignificant life.
That is how I’d often stumbled with thankfulness. It’s easy to be thankful when our dreams seem within reach. But sooner or later, we all come to a point where life takes us off script. What we planned for didn’t happen. What we tried to avoid, somehow finds us in the end.
This place of losing faith — where ordinary life overcomes our extraordinary dreams — is where author Billy Coffey begins his story in his debut novel, Snow Day.
Don’t Judge A Book By It’s Cover
As I picked up my review copy of Snow Day, the cover art of a snow hill covered with children and people wrapped up in winter marshmallow bundles gave me the impression I’d be reading Norman Rockwell heartland stories. By the time I got halfway through, I learned again not to judge a book by it’s cover.
Like a master craftsman, Coffey writes his fiction as real life story. Which means the yarn he spins about the everyday man named Peter Boyd, who is about to lose his job, gets seamlessly woven into a journey of personal storms and dilemmas of faith.
“I was afraid they would think that instead of striking out into the world, I had struck out in my life.” ~ Snow Day’s protagonist Peter Boyd
What makes this book especially alluring is how the protagonist was placed in Virginia, with two children. The author and his family of four also reside in the same locale. This ended up to be creative fiction compiled by close observation on the frontlines of regular life. Coffey deftly intertwines humor, authenticity and down-to-earth wisdom in the conversations and memorable characters that are inspiringly flawed and enduring.
The South to me is Georgia and Florida, places I’ve passed through before. I’ve never stepped foot in Virginia, but I found myself out in the country between the pages of Snow Day.
Standing On Another Planet
Like I said, I’ve always lived in the valley of silicon and lights. Which means I have a whole lot of trouble seeing the stars. As a child, when I looked up into the night, I’d see the gray silhouette of moving clouds. If I was lucky, it’d be chilly and clear. I’d see a sparse handful of dots standing still to be connected with the tracing of my finger. The Big Dipper.
That’s pretty much all I made out when I gazed into the darkness, on a good night. Many times, I’d have to squint really hard and suspend belief to convince myself, Yes. That star is twinkling.
This all changed one late night as I drove out to Arizona on Hwy40 in my jeep along the borders of Mohave National Preserve. Right in front of me was a a crazy explosion of stars, twinkling like flashing neon signs. The sky glowed so incredibly bright, it seemed fake.
I pulled off to the side of the freeway and got out of my car, just to walk and do a 360. There were so many stars, I couldn’t put a finger between one without touching the other.
The desert leveled the horizon, and for a second, I felt I was standing on another planet.
Darkness & Light
There were a lot of interesting personalities in Snow Day that kept the pages turning, but I did not expect to find what I did in this tale of loss, remembrance and faith.
I was reminded when I see darkness more than light, I can push through knowing God’s light will eventually shine through me.
I may be living in the daily distractions and hardships of everyday life. But, the fact remains. One day, I’ll be driving along the highway of life, and I’ll see God’s hand in everything that has happened.
Just like the beautiful stars God flung into the sky, I won’t be able to tell the difference between one moment of faith and another moment of pain. In His eyes, they are all the same.
They will all twinkle.
And I’m so very thankful.
~~~~~
Are you facing ordinary or tough times times of faith?
What encourages you to feel thankful?
~~~~~
Snow Day Book Giveaway!
If you’re wondering which chapter in Snow Day caused such inspirational stir, you have a chance to find out for yourself!
Author Billy Coffey is sponsoring today’s Snow Day Book Giveaway!
To Enter:
BY WED 11/24/10 Midnight PST.
Leave a comment and you’ll be entered for a hardcover copy of Snow Day, which just published in October 2010.
For extra entries: Click on the “Share” button at the end of today’s post to Facebook or Tweet. Leave additional comments letting me know. You’re entered again!
A computer-generated winner will be randomly selected. The winner will be announced on Thanksgiving Day, 11/25 Noon PST!
** Update ** Thank you for all the wonderful entries.
Congratulations to Melissa Brotherton for winning a copy of Billy Coffey’s Snow Day! Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
Who’s Billy Coffey?
Billy Coffey is an author and blogger, with special history here — as Faith Barista’s first Special Blend Interview guest. Click here to read the interview “Faith Walk Behind The Cowboy Hat” and get the scoop on Billy.
Billy is also an encourager, one of the good guys who always has a kind word. Be sure to check out his blog, What I Learned Today, and say “Hey!” for me.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
*** NOW, IT’S YOUR TURN — FAITH BARISTA JAM! ***
Faith Barista Jam Thursdays — I serve up a topic of faith, you write the post. Keep faith fresh with a faith prompt and add your voice to this community.
Today’s topic: Thankfulness — Your Journey
Submit your post on today’s topic by clicking on the blue button below “Add Your Link”. If you don’t have a blog, share by posting a comment.
There will be NO jam next week, since it’s Thanksgiving!
**The next jam will be two weeks later on 12/2 ** Jam Topic: Your Hopes For ChristmasApproach it any way you feel inspired! Only required ingredient: keep it real. Thanks for serving your personal brews!
Build the Keep Fresh Fresh Community: Link back to Faith Barista or grab the Faith Barista Jam Badge to place in your post. Click here.
It’s a jam session. As time allows, say hi & drop a comment when visiting the community faith blends!
~~~~~
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62 Comments
I’m pretty sure I missed the contest, but it doesn’t matter. That was a great review! Thanks!
.-= bman´s last blog ..Get thin quick scheme… =-.
Sounds like a compelling book and one that would help me along in my journey of faith. I appreciate your writings. God bless!
I have the book. Wrote about it yesterday. But wanted to comment on your post. Out here in Colorado, you can be dumbfounded by the stars once you get away from the city lights. There is true awe and wonder to be found. I dont know how anyone can look at the sky and not expel a shout of joy and praise.
Sounds like a neat book – I’d love to win! Thanks for the giveaway!
[…] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Glynn Young, nicpic. nicpic said: RT @gyoung9751: And @TheBonnieGray at Faith Barista is also giving away a copy of Snow Day by @billycoffey. http://bit.ly/b10lDr /We all … […]
Really, that book just released?! They’ve been doing a great job buzz building then, b/c I feel like I’ve seen it everywhere for ever. I’d love to win, and would love to read.
.-= emily freeman´s last blog ..the light at the end of the tunnel =-.
I am looking forward to reading this! I always love to find something new that is already recommended 🙂
The book sounds great! Thanks for sharing such a wonderful review!
I just tweeted! 🙂
https://twitter.com/?status=Thanking%20God%20For%20An%20Everyday%20Life%20and%20Dark%20Nights%20%E2%80%94%20Book%20Giveaway:%20Billy%20Coffey%E2%80%99s%20Snow%20Day%20http://bit.ly/cLoAL9%20via%20@AddToAny#!/AFthfulJrney/status/5255671050149888
.-= Amy @ A Faithful Journey´s last blog ..Word-Filled Wednesday! 1 Corinthians 11-1 =-.
HUGE Billy Coffey fan here……..great giveaway!
Miss popping over here, Bonnie…..you always are a shining Light.
.-= *~Michelle~*´s last blog ..Matthew 25-40 =-.
Sharing on FB as well! (if I wasn’t Twitter-challenged, I would “tweet” as well)
.-= *~Michelle~*´s last blog ..Matthew 25-40 =-.
I really would enjoy winning a copy of this book!!! I will be glad to share this post and re-enter. Thanks for the opportunity for a chance to win. I look forward to reading your book soon!!!
Though Snow Day sounds like something I will not be able to put down until it is finished, I have also thought of a special friend that would also really enjoy it. Perhaps I can win one and give one! 🙂
[…] Linked up to today’s Faith Jam on Thankfulness. Click here to read other reflections. Share and Enjoy: These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages. […]
“Maybe instead of creating my life, I needed to find it… by noticing the little things.” That line alone draws me into the book.
In my life right now, I’m facing my first Thanksgiving and Christmas without either of my parents so it’s a little tough. Although I have much to be thankful for, it’s easy to drop down into sadness anyway. What encourages me to be thankful in the moment is to look behind me at the great memories I had with my parents, and to look forward to being together again one day in heaven.
Sorry I’ve been MIA, Bonnie, but it’s good to check back in and see that you’ve been enjoying a good book. 😉 I enjoy Billy’s blog, and I’m looking forward to reading Snow Day when it gets to me. You’ll have to come experience Virginia’s “southerness,” because believe me, we take pride in it out here in the country. 🙂
.-= Rebecca´s last blog ..A Little Bit Prickly =-.
[…] Gratitude . Head on over to read all the posts there! I’ve also included this post in Bonnie Gray’s weekly Faith Barista Jam where this week is all about thankfulness so go check out that too! AKPC_IDS += […]
I have the book, but great review, Bonnie. Thanks!
.-= jasonS´s last blog ..Meeting Every Challenge =-.
Follow you on Tweeter 🙂
Isn’t it amazing that we pass through trials, persevere, overcome, and can one day be thankful for them? Oh, the wisdom of God…
Another hard week of losing myself to find myself (Mt. 16:25).
.-= Genevieve Thul @ Turquoise Gates´s last blog ..The last best day =-.
I think Billy is such an extraordinary writer. He has such a way of taking everyday occurrences, things I would pass over, and finding a profound testimony of God in it. I have been very interested to read his book, so I’d love to win it. 🙂 If not, it will have to wait in my wish list queue on Amazon until I finish reading the books I’ve already purchased. Haha! Too much good stuff out there. Thanks for the opportunity, Billy and Bonnie.
.-= Melissa Brotherton´s last blog ..Testimony =-.
I’m definitely putting this on my list. The quote you pulled from it is enough to entice me to read it! Thanks for the recommendation. And again, thanks for weaving your story into it.
.-= Sheryl´s last blog ..A Journey of Thankfulness =-.
OK—it’s tweeted! 🙂
.-= Sheryl´s last blog ..A Journey of Thankfulness =-.
Would LOVE to read this book! I will never forget the stars I saw in Greece. We were sleeping on a roof and there were so many shooting stars, we stopped counting.
“I was reminded when I see darkness more than light, I can push through knowing God’s light will eventually shine through me.
“I may be living in the daily distractions and hardships of everyday life. But, the fact remains. One day, I’ll be driving along the highway of life, and I’ll see God’s hand in everything that has happened.”
“Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.” (1 cor 13:12)
The story of Jacob, running fitfully toward … something, and literally running into the arms of God
http://disjournal.blogspot.com/2010/11/jacob-way-back-and-way-forward.html
.-= Dave Taylor´s last blog ..Jacob- The way back and the way forward =-.
I’ve been amazed at all the different reviews on this book. What I love about Billy’s writing is that he allows ample space in his stories for the reader to find themselves there. Thanks, Bonnie.
.-= katdish´s last blog ..Don’t Quit until the Picture’s Complete =-.
Ah, with faith nothing is ordinary, huh?
Great post and review.
Wow, what a great post, Bonnie! Thanks so much for helping to spread the word.
.-= Billy Coffey´s last blog ..Choosing to walk =-.
Sounds like a great read and I’d love to win a copy.
Growing up in NYC , I can relate to not being able to see the stars at night. Since relocating to a small town in NC I’ve been able to see the multitude of stars. The first time I stood outside on a clear night and looked up at the stars, it was almost frightening, there was so many of them and it seemed they were all coming at me.
It took a minute to regroup and adjust my line of thinking, and once I did I realized how awesome God is, and how Abraham must have felt when God told him his descendants would be as numerous as the stars.
What helps me face dark and difficult times (we’re in some right now) – a good cry and praying my frustrations honestly, rest, and having some fun in the middle of it all.
Great post, Bonnie. Very thoughtful (I have the book — don’t need a copy — just wanted to say hello).
.-= Michelle DeRusha´s last blog ..Kitchen Stools =-.
I read thru this post and is like reading my life. Seems to me, like this book will be a blessing to read. I am struggling with depression after divorce, what I tried to avoid, found me at the end. And it hurts, and… I need a job, etc., etc. 🙁
Sounds like a great book! It would be nice to win. 🙂
Are you facing ordinary or tough times times of faith?
Tough times. God is faithful to us. I see him in the midst of all the tough times. Not that I wish for the tough times. I trust God with all of me good and bad, tough times and simple times. This is not how it use to be, but it is now. God has grown me so much the last several years.
What encourages you to feel thankful?
Right now every moment encourages me to be thankful. I am glad to be alive and that my husband is alive.
.-= Katie´s last blog ..Reasonably Happy =-.
Facebooked this!
.-= Katie´s last blog ..Reasonably Happy =-.
The book sounds wonderful! I love what you said about stars and how our moments of faith and moments of pain will all twinkle in the end–a wonderful way to look at it! Thank you!
Bonnie,
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this book. I love your “star” story!
Peace!
.-= Fr. Michael´s last blog ..The Power of Positive Living =-.
Lovely post!!
One of my most favorite winter things is the night sky…crisp and clear nights make the stars twinkle even brighter.
I LOVE; “I may be living in the daily distractions and hardships of everyday life. But, the fact remains. One day, I’ll be driving along the highway of life, and I’ll see God’s hand in everything that has happened.” AMEN!!
Thanks for your sharing and encouragement…
.-= marina bromley´s last blog ..Right Now DOES Matter!! =-.
This one is going on my tbr list!
What Jesus says must determine how I live.
LOVE the first 2 blog quotes from the book.
Sounds like a must read.
.-= Bonnie Solid´s last blog ..Never Forgotten =-.
Followed David @ Red Letter Believers over here and belatedly linked a post. Looks like I found a big bunch of Snow Day fans here! I completely relate to the sense that life has gone off script, and that sense is what has so often called me back to the practice of gratitude. Star-filled skies are a huge reminder to me of God’s goodness and faithfulness. My teen son seems especially moved by them, and when we’ve butted heads (as mothers and teen sons often do), God reminds me of His faithfulness to all His covenant promises. “He (God) took him (Abraham) outside and said, ‘Look up at the heavens and count the stars–if indeed you can count them.’ Then he said to him, ‘So shall your offspring be.'” Genesis 15:5
.-= Nancy´s last blog ..Ahem =-.
We don’t get snow in this part of Africa, but we have LOTS of stars!
The sky here is amazing!
I can’t look to the heavens without my heart soaring in praise.
Philippians 2:14-18
Shining like stars in the universe!
Wow — God is so good!
Looks like a great read!
I shared on facebook!
I’m looking forward to reading this book. I’m going to check out his blog,too.
Thanks for your inspiration.
Bonnie, awesome review. Love the way you intertwined your own story with that of Peter Boyd’s. From your review, I think I might have prematurely judge this book from the cover.
.-= Wanda´s last blog ..Any time is a good time =-.
This book sounds wonderful. I look forward to checking out Billy’s website. I live in Virginia – it’s fun to see our state featured in this way.
Great review and post. Thanks for the opportunity for the book as well. It would be an interesting read.
can’t wait to read it.
[…] the One Word blog carnival hosted by Bridget Chumbley where this time we discuss Gratitude and Bonnie Gray’s weekly Faith Barista Jam where this week is all about thankfulness so go check out out all the great posts at both spots! I […]
I live in a rural part of Montana, where starry nights are the norm-that is if the sky is clear. The vastness I see as I look up reminds me of God’s great creation and of his love for me. The sparkle of the snow, the twinkle of the stars, the brightness in the night. Thanks for the post
I am not sure how I stumbled onto your blog but I am grateful I did – Your writing is beautiful and the book review”Snowday” hits my heart on so many levels. First, I know the “other world” experience to which you are referring about the immense number of stars one can see from a non populated area. There is a stretch of highway called the Exterrestrial Hwy between Reno and LV which gave me the most glorious view into the 3D heavens I’d ever seen. I too stopped the car and stepped into the thickness of an eternity of stars. It wasn’t enough for this lifetime. Another area this book touched me is my pain for my dear friend, her husband and children who have been corraled into eight months of unemployment and hardship. Her despair and hopelessness hovered nearby as I read the preview… Now wanting to know more from Coffey’s book – because I know God has not left them – waiting to hear how her moments of faith and moments of pain will all twinkle in the end.
I am sharing this amongst my friends on facebook <3
I’m sorry I missed last week’s Faith Jam but would love an opportunity to win Snow Day. It sounds like an interesting read!
.-= Kristine McGuire´s last blog ..Being Thankful…Even When Your Not =-.
I shared a link to this blog on Face Book.
.-= Kristine McGuire´s last blog ..INTRODUCING NBC FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT- A WALK IN MY SHOES =-.
I’ve also shared it on Twitter
.-= Kristine McGuire´s last blog ..Movie Review- Voyage of the Dawn Treader =-.
Wonderful review. It sounds like a topic just about all of us can relate to. Isn’t it interesting that we all desire to live a life of significance? I was having lunch with a friend yesterday and we were talking about this very idea. I think it’s because we are created in God’s image and each one of us is unique. We each bring something that others can’t – and only by cultivating a deep relationship with God can we realize the fullness of our purpose.
Rachel
.-= Rachel´s last blog ..A Time to Leave … =-.
What a great review, Bonnie. Now I want to read Billy’s book more than ever! Just popping in to say Happy Thanksgiving, and been blessed by the gift of your words. As I read, I saw the little girl you, writing in your journal as the city noise struck a symphony behind you. I love how you tell your story, lady.
.-= Laura´s last blog ..Show Me =-.
I am sharing this amongst my friends on facebook <3
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