Meet the Blogger with Ceil Ryan

 
It's Meet the Blogger Monday! This month I have the pleasure of hosting Ceil Ryan, of Surrounded by the Spirit. This lovely writer and I met through blogging, of course, and if there's one thing I've noted about her, it's that she has a genuine heart for others. Her wise and often witty posts always seem to address a need or offer an encouraging word - or both.

Welcome, Ceil! So glad to have you visit. Why did you start blogging? How long have you had your current blog?  

Hi Karen! Thank you so much for including me in your Meet the Blogger Series. I have enjoyed reading about the other bloggers you’ve featured, and I’m honored to be here!  

In 2012, I finished writing four chapters of a book on the Parable of the Talents.  Then I figured it was time to investigate how to get published. Well, that was an eye-opener. I found out I needed: an advanced degree, publications, a speaking career, a blog and a Twitter account before I would even be allowed to submit a manuscript. Yikes. Getting published sounded impossible. I quit writing the book (which was a good move because it was terrible) and started my first blog, Evangelize to Me, in 2013 on the Google Blogger platform. The next year I migrated the blog to Wordpress, changing the name to Surrounded by the Spirit.

The publishing process can be a complicated one, that's for sure. Maybe a revised version of that book will find a home someday. :) What is your current blog about?

I reflect on the events of my life, or the lives of those around me, trying to figure out what God is trying to say. God constantly speaks through our friends, our families, our day-to- day chores, and us. And He keeps speaking, whether we are listening or not, telling us the love story of how we belong to Him and to all created things. His spirit surrounds us!

I agree. That's a great comfort. What benefits have you gained through blogging?

I started blogging to learn how to express myself, and to find focus. I think that’s all I expected, but I’ve gotten so much more than that. There’s such a large world of bloggers out there, all expressing what’s important to them. It’s fascinating to read different posts and learn new things, and new ways of thinking. But most of all, I love the relationships that form with fellow bloggers. I have had the privilege of meeting two blog-friends face to face, and it was like meeting old friends. Blog-land is big, but it’s also one of the friendliest, most encouraging places I’ve ever been.

The relationships are the best! "Blog-land" is big and small, isn't it? That's fun that you've met two other bloggers so far. What projects are you working on now? 

I’m currently writing two talks that are planned for the spring. One is a half-day retreat, the other a one-hour presentation, both for women.  I was recently asked if I’d like to speak at a Ministry Conference breakout session in April.

Sounds interesting - I'm sure you'll be a blessing to those attending. What might people be surprised to learn about you? 

1) I don’t like pie, unless it’s chocolate or pecan. Please, for the love of all that’s holy, stop putting fruit in my dessert!

2) Although I started out writing a book, I don’t think that’s something I should be doing now. I’m very happy writing for the blog, as well as designing talks and mini-retreats.

There are so many good things writers can do other than write books. Sounds like you are keeping busy. What advice would you share with a newbie blogger? 

Be gentle with yourself. When I started, I think I had a headache every day. It’s overwhelming at first, but you’ll get it. Take the time to read other blogs and comment on them too. To me, blogging is not only about developing your own voice; it’s about encouraging others while they find theirs. You’ll meet some wonderful people and make good blog friends too. 

Wonderful advice! It's an interesting journey with ups and downs, and the results are totally worth it. Thanks so much for coming by to see us. :) 

Thank you, Karen!  
 

More About Ceil

Ceil Ryan is a wife, nurse, mom and nana living in the Midwest. After working more than twenty years, she hung up her nurse’s cap to start writing, speaking and blogging full-time. Her passion is sharing personal stories with an emphasis on faith and encouragement.

Find Ceil

Her Blog - Surrounded by the Spirit 
Facebook 
Twitter @ceilryan

Do you have any questions for Ceil? Have you visited her blog? What are you working on so far in the new year?

Happy writing,
Karen 



Photo credit: Free Images