The {Write} Space: Antiques & Mrs. Beasley

 

Welcome to the {Write} Space series!

These women are brave and authentic. Their messages touch the hearts of many. What inspires some of my fellow writers and what does their physical writing space look like? Thought you might enjoy finding out. This is sort of like a blog version of the MTV show, “Cribs” but not really, chuckle. I WISH I could fly around and do a FB Live with these women from their actual offices. If only! Also know I am not looking for Better Homes & Gardens worthy spaces to critique either. I am looking for REAL. What makes a space beautiful is the woman who writes in it. So enjoy! Each of these “offices” are beautiful and unique in their own way. Please give these writers a follow on social media and leave them a quick prayer or word of thanks/encouragement in the comment section below. The writing world is tough and lonely at times, so your comments really are a blessing.

Next up is award-winning author, Varina Denman. Her latest book, Looking Glass Lies, touched me since I have struggled with some of the same issues that are highlighted in this book. I truly adore authors like Varina who “go there” showing the reality of what many of us are walking through, but who also leave their readers feeling hopeful and inspired. I look forward to reading whatever she writes next. Just label me a #VDgroupie from here on out. Woot!

My jaw also dropped when I saw her office. Not only does she have a KILLER red settee that would look fabulous in Steel Manor, but on this amazing settee sits a doll.  A doll that just happens to be a childhood favorite of mine. What are the odds? I have not seen a Ms. Beasley doll in years- love it and love Varina. Here is a little more about her and her {Write} Space…

Favorite type of design style:

Because I was raised by two antiques dealers, my house is full of antiques (some heirloom, some not), and I’ve always LOVED them. Over the years, I’ve incorporate my antiques into various design styles. Currently, I’m decorating with a farm house flair, along with everyone else who has a fan crush on Fixer Upper. 😊

Mountain cabin, penthouse in the city, or bungalow on the beach?

My home is an suburban two-story, but for vacation, a mountain cabin sounds heavenly – remote, quiet, nice scenery. I’d also love to spend a few weeks in a lake house that’s equally remote and quiet. Imagine all the writing I could get done!

 

 

Where is your {write} space? Is there a certain something in this room that is extra special to you or that inspires you ?

A few years ago, I transformed one of the upstairs bedrooms into an office. My older kids had left the nest, and I finally had the space to create a writing haven with a door that shuts. Since then, I’ve attempted to surround myself with things that bring me joy and/or inspire me: pictures of my family, my kids’ artwork, awards I’ve received, and of course my books. As far as furniture, I acquired a nothing-glamourous-but-very-usable desk from Craigslist, but for fun I have an antique style settee and a vintage kitchen cabinet. My latest addition has been a Mrs. Beasley doll, just like the one I played with as a girl.

How did you become interested in writing?

When my children were young, I started reading during naptime as well as during late-night feedings, and I gradually realized that I not only loved the stories, but I loved the way the authors told them. Over the course of several years, I went from “It would be cool to write a book someday” to “I might as well try it; what can it hurt?” The rest, as they say, is history.

 

 

Best piece of advice or tidbit of encouragement you have for fellow writers:

God’s got this. I’m a worrier, and I’ve spent way too many sleepless nights fretting over my career. I’ve decided to (try to) let go of the anxiety. If God wants my words to get out there, nothing I do will stop Him. So really … I can’t mess this up.

What is a past or current writing project that is near and dear to your heart?

My most recent release, Looking Glass Lies, was a therapeutic exercise for me as I wrote it. It tells of Cecily Ross, a young woman struggling with self-image following a divorce from an emotionally abusive husband. Even though I’ve never been divorced or emotionally abused, I’ve struggled with self-image for years. As I wrote Cecily’s story and helped her overcome her demons, God worked on me as well. I guess you could say Cecily and I journeyed alongside each other, and we both experienced growth as I was writing.

 

Thank you, Varina, for sharing your home and your heart with us. I love how God used your latest book to minister to your own heart as well. He’s so good like that. And you are right when you write, “God’s got this.” God has each of our lives in the palms of His perfect and gracious hands. No matter what season of life we find ourselves in, God’s timing is perfect. His delays or nos have a loving purpose behind them, because God IS love. Thank you for not giving up and persevering in the calling God has placed on your life. May God continue to bless your ministry 🙂

 

Varina Denman is the award-winning author of the Mended Hearts series, a compelling blend of women’s fiction and romance. A native Texan, Varina lives near Fort Worth with her husband and children, and she has taught creative writing and literature at her local homeschool cooperative. To connect with Varina, find her on one of the social media hangouts or at www.VarinaDenman.com.