Glimpse

July 2025 - Who Says You Can't?

This monthly newsletter, arriving the first Friday of the month to your inbox, offers an exquisite glimpse at updates on my current writing projects, and the latest writer-related happenings in my world.

(Disclaimer: No affiliate links, unless noted.)

To those celebrating July 4th, may you have a peaceful holiday! (Check out the “What I’m Eating” section of this newsletter for a s’more idea to add to your holiday meal.)

My Project Updates:

I’ve received all the beta reader edits, such great input! I’m continuing to make my own edits now based on the suggestions and new ideas, rewording things, etc. I even created a new scene, from a different character’s perspective, based on input received. That was fun and challenging! I think I also need to add in more sensory details to some of the stories, to flesh them out a bit more.

In addition, for the first time, I’m preparing this project to be available in a large print format as well! I want to make this book as accessible as possible.

If you haven’t checked it out yet, the new Quarterly Writing Post is updated, as of last month, on my website.

What’s NEW:

The seeds are up in my flower garden! The sunflowers are getting taller and the little white flowers in my wildflower mix are already blooming. I’m looking forward to all the other colors promised on the front of the seed packet, pinks, yellows, reds, etc. (Each summer, if I plant something, I’m reminded what an impatient gardener I am!)

What is keeping me organized:

Update on the compact size planner I switched to for the summer. Pros: I love the size and portability of the smaller binder. Having only three months in the binder keeps me focused. Cons: The space for writing any “to dos” at the bottom of the weekly layout is TOO SMALL! I guess I add too much detail when I write my notes? So five lines provided ends up giving me space for about two to do items. (I do try to use abbreviations.) So I realize I’ve gotten very used to more space in the “Classic” size page (8.5” x 5.5”). Aahhh the challenge! [Executive decision: I decided to switch back to my larger format for everyday use. I’ll take the smaller binder on my family trip this month.]

Here is something new in the organizing category, coming out soon, for the students in your life (middle school up to college): TOP Student Planner Waitlist!

www.megansumrell.com/student (use this link July 7th, when the product goes live!)

What I’m Eating / Drinking:

Eating: Looking back over the last few newsletters, it’s clear I enjoy healthy snacking! (But isn’t that usually the harder food category to eat healthy in?) A good friend recently put me on to this yummy snack. They come in different sizes of the snack circles as well as a variety of flavors. I tried the dark chocolate and sea salt. A nice crunch and not too sweet chocolate. (Thanks, Becky!!)

This is s’more season! If you want to enjoy the taste without the sugar hangover the next day, try these alternate components:

Graham crackers (gf), marshmallows (no corn syrup, but does contain soy), dark chocolate bar (this brand comes in a variety of percentages of dark chocolate to get the level you prefer.)

What’s in my “Reading Stack”:

This month: Sacred Rhythms by Ruth Haley Barton (not a relative)

This book title originally came to me through another person’s reading list whom I respect and who is a deeper thinker as well. (Thank you, Stephanie!)

I’m looking forward to the nourishment and transformation parts of this title. I realize I need to put in the effort on the practices, but if I can make meditating a regular practice in my day, I believe I can incorporate some of these new spiritual practices in my week as well.

We’re not too old to try something new!

Question of The Month :

What is something you’ve heard from society or been told by your peers that one shouldn’t do or try after a “certain age”? (Do you agree? What has been your experience?)

Reply here

Here is a great response to last month’s question:

When the summer season arrives, what changes do you like to make to schedules, clothes, activities, etc.?

“I love this time of year. I love changing my schedule so that I can get up early and observe the sunrise above the river. It's so majestic and something only God can create. I love changing the winter clothes to the beautiful bright colors. I love this time of year to spend more time out in nature with my husband and loved ones. I love new beginnings!” - Linda

What’s on my phone - “Favorite Photo of the Month”:

New Perspective!

My daughter recently completed a miniature project of a garden room. It is amazing in its detail when you get up close. It took a long time to complete as many of the elements were created from scratch. (This picture shows the room in its last phase of completion.)

Looking closely, there are many elements, there is much detail. Using this room as an analogy for our life, it can seem cluttered and busy when we are in the midst of it.

But what about when you zoom out and look at your life in an overview, like this picture. When we step back, we perhaps can see a pattern, or more purpose, or even a balance (or imbalance?) to the elements in our life. Often from this “high view” level we can more readily see where changes need to be made.

Sometimes we need a change of perspective to get the bigger view and see purpose. After all, you can only control your self, choices, actions, words, etc.

Trying a new perspective can not only give us a different view of a situation or our life, it can also prompt needed changes that bring peace.

Have a great month!

Connect with me: info@hawkhousepress.org

For Writer Resources: hawkhousepress.org

My Books discovered here

Created by Julie E. Barton -

Writer, Author, Founder of Hawk House Press, LLC

“Where Creativity Soars” - Offering inspiration for new writers and writer-related tidbits.