I met Carlyn a few years ago, when we both took our daughters on The Revolve Tour in Lakeland, FL.  We live just a few blocks away, yet, our paths had not yet crossed.

She was quiet, gentle, and reserved.

We kept in touch, and I reached out to her regarding the 7 Shifts Coaching (http://7shifts.weebly.com/) that I do, and she responded promptly with her willingness.

She tells more below about her experience, so, I won’t steal her thunder.

But I will share this:

The gentle, quiet woman I met a few years ago, has been transformed into a roaring, “rule breaking”, untamed version of her deeper self.  She is an inspiration and a joy in my life, and is a constant reminder of why I remain faithful to my calling.

She is living in the power of her Savior and is pursuing her dreams in the passion of her King.

Enjoy her heart.  I sure do.    CARLYN, YOU ARE SO BRAVE!       Love, Coach Jenny 

FAST FORWARD by Carlyn Hagler

To a young 6th grade girl, her dreams seemed possible.

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Letter, dated June 23, 1971

From: Western Publishing Company Inc.

Dear Carlyn,

Thank you letting us see “Troublesome Charlie” … I like your story very much … and I also like your illustrations….

In answer to your question about how to become a professional illustrator … continue to draw and illustrate stories.

You should take art courses in high school … when the time comes, choose a college or job where you could get good art training.

You should save your best drawings to make what artist call a portfolio….. best wishes …..

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Fast Forward to February 2012 – 7 Shifts Group

Anticipating the first phone conference with a group of women, most I had never met before.  So fearful I was not going to sound smart enough, good enough, spiritual enough … enough of whatever “enough” would be.

The group took turns introducing themselves which proved to be painless.  It was the next question which would be the pivotal life changing moment.

Jenny asked,

“If you could choose one dream, with guaranteed success, no limits on money, time, energy

– it would happen no matter what – what is that dream?

Without even mulling over an answer, when it came my turn I responded “illustrate a children’s book”.

Oh my, did that just come out of my mouth?  Was that silence from everyone else listening to my sudden silence?  Did I sound silly?  Should I of said something else?

Ok, that was ridiculous … just forget I even said that…..

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Fast Forward: July 2012

Cleaning out old boxes from the shed, I removed several items from one box:

• A yearbook from 1971.  A picture of a young girl in the 6th grade, sparkling eyes and smiling.  A Dreamer.
• A letter from Western Publishing Company Inc. attached by a rusty paperclip, the original story “Troublesome Charlie” written so long ago with the original illustrations.
• An envelope containing an acceptance letter to art school.  Also stuffed in that envelope were painful memories.  In 1977 the dream was folded away in that letter.  Broken and forgotten.

I sobbed. Deep. Deeper than I ever felt in my life.

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Fast Forward:  October 3, 2012

I carefully placed my hand drawn, hand colored illustrations all over my bed.  20 pages of colorful illustrations, ready for an upcoming book “Wings For A Day” written by Amy Reed.

I couldn’t take my eyes off of the characters I so lovingly created. 

Like God created me?

Tears of gratitude poured down my face, thanking the Lord for his grace and mercy.  Who I am to deserve this?

I did not “see” this coming but rather faithfully and patiently walked with the Lord on this journey.

When I started 7 Shifts, I really had no expectations.  Expectations were usually equated with disappointment.

Instead, I was just ready.  Committed to learn whatever I could from the His Word, the “homework” and the other women in the group.  Sharing was not easy.

But this?  Beyond what my head could grasp but overflowing what my heart could hold!

It’s not just about living out a childhood dream at the age of 53.

The Lord has gently guided me through this journey, to work on me, to mold me, allowing me to FEEL and process my fears, face the untruths of my life, and He has taught me to listen to His Voice of Truth.

Who am I?  

God’s creation. 

I am a freelance illustrator. 

I am Me, CARLYN, moving forward to break a few rules along the way.

COMMENTS WELCOME:  Who are you?  Who has inspired you to dream? 

And what steps are you taking towards your dreams today? 

You are someone else’s inspiration.  BE that! 

Coach Jenny passionately believes the words she “preaches”.  She lives for Jesus, and simply calls others to do the same.  If you would like a 30 minute FREE session with her, please email her @jenny@everydaylifeline.com.

We can talk on the phone and walk you right in to your dreams.  You (too) are BRAVE!

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