Proud to be Perfectly Unique.

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Here’s something you may or may not know about writing books for traditional publishers.

The author doesn’t exactly “pick the cover” or “name the book”… per say. 🙂

I mean, we definitely have input and can express our opinions, including pitching a fit, including tears, in three consecutive meetings…. I mean, I’ve heard of people behaving like that.

Ahem.

It was me.

Anyways. I am so proud of the cover and of the title. Perfectly Unique fits me so well, it fits this book, and it fits the vision for what I pray God continues to do with these words- put them in the hands of teenagers that need to know that God made them each on purpose.

But the cover? Now that’s quite a story.

In early Spring 2012, I was sitting at Panera with my agent Kyle and we got an email from Zondervan with the design for the cover of Perfectly Unique.

He opened it and turned his computer screen to me. I teared up. Immediately.

[Shocking absolutely no one who has known me longer than this blog post.]

It was perfect. It was everything I would have wanted. It was personal to me and totally spoke my language.

“Who did this?” I asked him.

“Just a designer at Zondervan I guess,” Kyle said, “I don’t know who.”

“Well,” I looked at him, “email this editor back and tell her to give that designer a BIG FAT HUG because he/she NAILED IT. How in the WORLD does that person not know me? It looks so so much like me.”

In a world where the author has zero say in the original design or which humans lay their hands on the making of this book, it was just a real gift from God to absolutely cry over the beauty of this thang.

. . . . .

I put the jpeg on my iPhone and showed that puppy off like it was a trophy. I would stop any friend that I saw ANYWHERE and “offer” [is that the right word?] to show it to them.

I have a few graphic designer friends and each one I would say, “I mean, seriously. Are you DYING? Isn’t it AMAZING? It looks JUST LIKE ME, right?”

And because they are generous human beings, they would say yes and smile and truly, everyone has liked it.

I remember showing my pal Micah at a table in Portland Brew [our neighborhood coffee shop] and, as previously stated, totally gushing.

. . . . .

About three weeks later I was texting Micah about his lovely wife and her birthday or something and then he said this about my book cover. [He’s in white, I’m in green.]

WAIT. WHAT. HUH. [And dear reader, just FYI, this is what the VAST MAJORITY of text message convos with boys look like for me. Just so you know. I’m a talker. And boys love that, right? #sarcasm]

Micah Kandros is one of the best graphic designers in Nashville and Zondervan had NO idea we were even friends, but what a miracle that one of my friends who knows me well but is also an insanely talented artist designed the cover for Perfectly Unique. I am so grateful to Micah for the beautiful design. [You should look through his other designs and d.r.o.o.l. So so amazing.]

And what Micah couldn’t have even known is that in the depths of my worst season of self-dislike, I WORE PURPLE CONVERSE. No kidding.

So no, those aren’t my feet [people ask all the time], but in 9th grade, they could have been.

Every time I look at this cover, I see that teenage Annie and I know that God has redeemed and restored some deep things in my heart since those days. And I’m honored that He made a way for me to share those stories with teenagers all over the world.

Feel free, then, to judge this book by it’s cover. 🙂

By: Annie, Annie Blogs

Annie Downs is an author and speaker who loves living in Nashville, Tennessee. Flawed but funny, she uses her writing to highlight the everyday goodness of a real and present God. Her first book, Perfectly Unique, released in stores September 2012.  Find the book at DaySpring.com for only $7.99. Read more at annieblogs.com

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About the Author

Annie F. Downs is a bestselling author and nationally known speaker based in Nashville, Tennessee. Her most recent books include 100 Days to Brave, Looking for Lovely and Let’s All Be Brave. Read more at anniefdowns.com and follow her at @anniefdowns.

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  2. I can’t wait to read this book. My groom has always said I am “unique” and for so long I took it as an insult. Shouldn’t I be like everyone else? But He made me this way. A dreamer. A talker. A very self reflective deep thinker. To accept myself is my worship. As “deep” or “over the top” with too muchness, I am beloved!

  3. Let’s see. I write and ramble about small stuff and wear clothes that sometimes wear clothes that mean something more than covering, warmth, and style. Enjoyed your story this a.m. about the cover. lots of good small stuff of life.

  4. I don’t wear make up and I don’t have ANY body piercings. I don’t care for jewelry and I like to wear hoodies when I can. Comfort is important to me. People have tried to change me but I like who I am. I like to be comfortable and considering God likes to keep me out of my comfort, this is the one place I stand firm. 🙂

    What a great story you tell here!

  9. That’s an AWESOME story about the cover of your book!

    One thing that’s unique about me is that because I’m socially anxious I write notes to express myself…it’s really cool to see when my friends have been saving a pile of my notes to them!

  12. I m unique in that I love exploring the woods and streams and dreaming up activities to help children discover God’s creation.

  13. What’s perfectly unique about me, I learn things fast. I think that’s good and I’d always do a good job with mesmerization in school.

  14. One thing that is perfectly unique about me is how I see the world. I tend to see things differently than a lot of people and I like that about myself!

  16. I am a natural brunette, but I have a blonde eyebrow, blonde eyelashes and blonde streaks in my hair on one side of my face/head. Just that one side. Everything is brown hair on the other side. I’ve had this since I was a child. We consider it my birthmark as I have no other birthmark on my body. It appears that the pigment on that side of my head is not as strong as the other side so one side is blonde and one side is brunette. Before I started wearing makeup, I got picked on a lot for my blonde eyebrow.

  17. I’m a perfectly unique mesh of nerd English teacher and outdoor enthusiast…mountain biking, rock climbing, and snowboarding are just a few of my favorite sports

  21. I love to listen to Christmas music…in the summer time! 😉 (and I sing loudy and very expressively in the car!)

  22. I’m unique in that Im in my forties and never been married… I love to encourage others and do all kinds of crafts… I so want this book….

  24. I’m unique because God made me to just be me – it took me 40+ years to understand and appreciate this awesome fact!

  26. Love this story. He is concerned about even the smallest details of our lives. And He gets the Glory for all of it!! He’s so Good. God made me with a sensitive heart and spirit. Most times it’s a blessing…sometimes it’s a curse. Ha. Super sensitive at times. Ugh…but that’s okay. He’s given me a deep love for His people and I so appreciate that. I desire for it to grow even deeper.

  27. I am a mixture of strength and weakness. Strength in intellectual pursuits but weak in emotions and social interactions. I love people but am also uncomfortable around them. A Godly mess that I am trying to use as a message to others.

    Mary

  28. I am unique because I love to be alone and quiet and am shy, yet I love being with people at the same time.

  29. Sometimes in life it’s hard to believe that we are Perfectly unique. I’ve lived long enough and had enough of His lessons to truly believe Him and take Him at His word that I am. Wholly and dearly loved by Him for whatever of Him is seen in me and so thankful for what shines through in a way that is different through each one of us. So, I want to send this book to my 12 year old granddaughter who will be heading into those years where it’s hard to believe these things of God and to have her be encouraged that she is Perfectly Unique made by Him for His own special purpose in this world and into eternity. 🙂

  30. I am unique because it sounds nicer than weird. I have been at the edge of fitting in everywhere in my life. Nearing 40, I’m almost comfortable being me. There are seasons I flaunt it — feeling quite at ease with who the Lord made me to be. Other seasons I prefer to hide away and protect myself. I have 4 daughters I hope to help feel much more comfortable being unique at a younger age than in my life.

  31. My favorite uniqueness about me is that I have five uniquely beautiful children – my oldest is on the cusp of teenhood. We homeschool together here in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula – sometimes referred to as “the wilderness”. I love the truth of redemption and restoration and am so thankful for the confidence I can have in Christ’s ability to redeem and restore our hearts and to daily witness it in my family.

  32. I am unique because that’s how God made me. Not like everyone else, not fitting into a mold made by man but just discovering who I am and what my purpose is everyday walking it out with Him.

  33. Kinda random, but when I go ice skating, I always wear hockey skates instead of figure skates. Even at 46, I’m a tomboy at heart!

  35. I am “Grandma Shadow” (named after our Cocker Spaniel) – bestowed to me by (4) utterly “Unique” Grandchildren ! I’m high on life and my motto is: “Never Underestimate the Healing Power of Laughter”. A truely “Unique” gift from God ! ;O)

  36. I seem to have a light that shines from the inside out. No matter how people treat me I have learned that God isn’t finished with me yet and that I represent him as a Christian. I try to treat others like I wish to be treated and that is with love & kindness.

    Thank you!

  37. I am a lover of music and art and nature and all things creative but I am still into books and learning and spreadsheets too.

  38. I love your story (tale, told here). God works in extraordinary ways in both large and small ways his wonders to perform 🙂 I love that He loves to delight us!!!!

  39. I’m perfectly unique in my love of PT Cruisers. The PTs first came out when I was young, yet that has always been my “dream” car. I’m now 24 years old and have been the proud owner of a lightening blue PT Cruiser for over 7 years. I here all the comments and jokes but quickly learned to take it all with a grain of salt.
    Am I perfectly unique? Totally.

  41. I am perfectly unique because God only made one of me. One me to mother my four children, one me to stand up in two different courts and give God the glory, one me to know that even though I am ready to meet my maker He is not finished with me yet, one of me to encourage and have faith like a mustard seed against all of my worldly problems, one of me to show what it truly means to be a believer of Christ to my family, one me to face the devil and say that I AM HIS & YOU WILL NOT TEAR MY FAMILY APART! In Christ precious and holy name I am thankful and so grateful that HE made only one of me!!!
    AMEN!

  42. I’m not sure if this is *unique* or not, but I am a stay at home mom and I love it! We are a family of 7. I would Love to have more children but I feel I am getting a bit too old (42 in two weeks). I strive everyday to gide them down the right path, Gods path.

  43. I am intrigued by your book title and am looking forward to reading it. When I saw that we need to write something that we are unique in I was sad. I like to be behind the scenes and have a lot of quiet time. Not too unique. I don’t feel unique at all, but I want to be. Then God reminded me that in my family; my parents and siblings…not my family with my husband and kids) I am unique in my faith with God. My life now is drastically different than what I grew up in. I am a unique God follower in my family. A first generation Christ follower. So God has made me unique after all.

  44. I’m perfectly unique as a geek gal, frequently wearing t-shirts that show off my fandoms. I’ll take converse or cute fall/winter boots over heels any day. I have an intense love of adventure but need a quiet, restful space to find peace a lot of times. I still prefer paper books over e-books and refuse to buy an e-reader for now.

    Those are just some of the things that make me perfectly unique

  45. I love, love, love the premise of your book. I cant wait to get a copy to give to my daughter. It has taken me over 40 years to decide that I am unique. I truly enjoy this person God has made. I also think the husband and 3 kids enjoy the quirks that are me. I love stupid jokes, crows and thoroughly feel blessed when I can show hospitality to others. Many blessing on you and those that you will minister to through your writing.

  46. I am unique because, although I love being an American, I sometimes feel more at home in Germany, where I lived for 9 years.

  47. I’m the only person with my fingerprints, I love A-1 on my mac-n-cheese, and I prefer to sit at Jesus feet over attending a party, and I need a twelve step program for my book addiction. Scratch that last one I could never give up reading.

  48. I have been told my uniqueness is my laugh. I am dubbed the lady with a thousand laughs. I guess I never laugh the same way twice. Secretly I love this. I share this uniqueness with my sweet Aunt Karen who lives with Jesus now. Every time (yes seriously every time) I laugh, I think of Karen and the wonderful memories she left with me.

  49. I recently retired, and upon reading many cards and letters, which spanned thirty years of service as a Kindergarten teacher, I suddenly became aware of a unique
    ability to make each child in my class feel “unique”. God had answered my daily prayers for the wisdom to encourage each precious child to discover his or her own unique strengths, and to embrace their God blessed unique spirits and talents. I’m thankful God used my unique heart of encouragement to develop the unique spirit in each student.

  54. It has taken me 50 years to accept my uniqueness. For years I took it as harsh criticism. I am a very feely person and I love without bounds. That really turns people off ~ which has always been very hard for me to conceive. I was always told that I wear my feelings on my sleeve, etc. and to top it off I am dyslexic :). I am an old soul and love the hippie generation. I love tie dyed t-shirts and when in jr. high school I wore black high top converse (you could only get them in the boys dept)…….I cannot imagine being anyone else but me and I praise and thank God for that almost everyday!

  55. LOVE your cover! I had a similar experience a few years back. I had written an article for Momsense Magazine, and when it was published, it was accompanied by a photo of a woman’s sock-clad feet surrounded by Christmas wrapping paper. Everyone told me the crazy striped socks looked like me! So I guess that crazy socks are just one thing that makes me unique! (And by the way, I OWN those purple Converse tennies! LOL!)

  56. It has been hard to figure out what makes me “unique” but I think the blend of service, mercy and “motherly love” from a young, tender age has made me perceptive to the needs of others and I adapt as such. I love people who aren’t like me and I realize many people call me “weird” to my face and behind my back. And I’m FINALLY okay with that!

  57. i am perfectly unique because i am able to find joy and laughter in the littlest things.

    thanks for sharing this story, annie! how wonderful =)

  58. I’m a big ideas person, very creative thinker… Don’t ask me what to do with the ideas, I just get them. 🙂

  59. !!! That happened to me with my first fiction, Trooper’s Run. When I opened the email with the cover proof images, the first one knocked my sox off. I was so overwhelmed by how perfect it was ~ even looking exactly like the real wolf I modeled the main spiritual character on!!! It was a year later after it was published when I was cleaning out files on my computer that I realized there had been two images in that email for me to choose between. I never even looked at the second one! Looking at it a year later, I realized that I had made the right choice.

    So excited for you and wishing you MUCH success!!!

  60. I am enjoying the experience of becoming more free as I get older, it can be wonderful. Sometimes I surprise myself! It is such fun to fel the childlike freedom that I havent experienced until now in my life. It is great fun and a healing that feels like water in a drought. 🙂

  63. Annie, thank you for the story. We are all unique because God made us that way. I am because I’m a 50 year old kid. I don’t have children but I love teenagers and I serve them in our youth ministry. I still wear shoes like those on your cover!

  65. Well, I got up today to get my braces off of this 48 year old momma of 3 and was so excited that I realized after they took my “pretty smile” photo that I had 2 different earrings on!! HAHA! Totally my laugh for the day 🙂

  66. I have two teenage friends (I’m 50, and I find that miraculous!) and both of them would be so blessed by this book. They struggle with their uniqueness in many ways – mostly that they follow Christ, and most kids around them do not. they are unique, bright lights in a dark school. I’m so proud of them for being very strong ‘seeds’.

  67. I am perfectly unique in that everything I say seems to make people laugh; even more so when I am so very, very serious. So, I have decided that my Spritual Gift is to make people laugh and forget their daily woes for a minute (or more likely 30 minutes, if you get me to talking).

  68. All my life I’ve been told that I’m unique. As a young child I was given the responsibility of “making our family work”, of being the responsible person. That and my mother’s emotional frailties prompted me to develop the type personality I have. God in His rich mercy reached down and drew me to Himself, showing me that He loved me just as I was. He gave my sweet young husband and me a family of 3 precious children whom we raised for Him through various serious health issues and issues that came from adopting our daughter from a third world country where Satan was worshiped. Life wasn’t easy, but it was rich with the love of God. God had gifted me to teach and had blessed me with ladies’ groups where I was able to use the spiritual gifts He’s given in teaching and mentoring other younger moms. Now, when our children are married and have families of their own, God has us once again on a new journey, one in which my health is causing me to be set aside for now, can’t teach but can pray . All my life I’ve been told how unique I was/am, etc., and now again, I’m being told my doctors that I (or me in this unknown illness) am certainly unique. It certainly isn’t “straight-forward”, they say. They continue to do every kind of test they can think of and send me to every kind of specialist they can think of, also. I’m presently on a waiting list for the Dept. of Neurology at the Mayo Clinic but may be making applications at other clinics nearer to home since no one seems to know what else to do with me at this point. HOWEVER, we know that our God knows this, too. Just as He’s known everything all through the difficult years of my childhood, young adulthood, being a parent to children with various serious illnesses and other issues, HE knows what’s going on with this body He made. And, we know that in His timing, He’ll reveal it to just the right person. Until that time, we continue to go through whatever testings, etc., the doctors suggest. It’s gone on for over 12 months now and when I’m able to attend church, my friends have commented that I (and this whole situation) are certainly unique. But, you know, aren’t we all? God has made each one of us, He’s put us together in our mother’s womb, uniquely. And, that’s why no two of us will ever be exactly alike! Some days I truly struggle with the uniqueness God has given me, but isn’t that like the clay saying to its Potter, “Why are you making me like this?” Who am I to question Him? He’s the Creator God who knows just exactly each unique part to place where and He knows why it needs to be put there, too. I need only to trust Him for my uniqueness 🙂 As do each of you.

    trusting the One who made me unique,
    Penny

  69. I drink a grande triple shot espresso all ice no water, with 2 pumps white chocolate topped off with a little nonfat if theres room and whipped cream. I also came behind the housekeeper and redid the floor in my kitchen each week. I am particular, not picky and I have been adopted twice, once here on earth and once by my heavenly father. I am a living testimony to Gods healing and grace.

  70. I am unique because I strive for IMperfection! When everything is just right and not a hair is out of place, I find myself immersed in the doldrums. I love an old fashioned honest to goodness MESS – on your personage, in your home, in your car, amidst your jumbled thoughts. Perfection is wearing, and I aim to help (m)others embrace the good enough.

  71. I am unique because I come across as confident even though I might be shaking inside. I want to give this book to my little sis who is going through a difficult stage in life.

  72. In college they called me “quirky.” Like I would take 2 glasses in the cafeteria…one for water and ice, and then one with just ice…to pour the water into when the other ice melted…I have lost myself in this whole parenting/marriage moment, but I hope to become “quirky” again someday…

  73. I’m unique because their is not another one of me! This could be good or bad depends on whose eyes you are looking through.

  74. I’m perfectly unique in the way God has made me and blessed me. Still learning to embrace the way He has fearfully and wonderfully formed me!

  75. My 14 year-old grandaughter is adopted and we are constantly sharing and encouraging her about her “uniqueness” as a special creation of God. I would love this book for her.

  76. I shattered my full femur and doctors said I would always have problems with it! God spoke to me and made me step out of my comfort zone and healed me because I chose to listen and had to learn that sometimes it will be uncomfortable talking about Him!! Annie made me then made me speak at a summer camp in 2011 pushing me further in the stepping out process!! 🙂

  77. I am perfectly unique because of my relationships. I put forth great effort in them to sustain friendships, my marriage, and with those who are special to me. I write cards, emails, texts, and reach out.

  78. THAT has to be the best-ever cover story, hands down. God is so good! I’m perfectly unique in that two different surgeries gave me life, and even though I’m scarred, I know 100% that I’m here for a purpose.

  79. I was with a friend the other day and started something I was about to say with “this is weird, but…” and she interrupted with “but you’re weird”. I said “Thanks!” and finished my story. Maybe there’s other people who love being told they’re weird, but I don’t know any. I’m happy every time I’m not the usual thing. I like that God made only one me, even if others don’t always understand her!

  80. God’s hand and faithfulness is abundant in my life as He has allowed me to live even as a preemie weighing 1lbs 12 oz, to years later as an adult in a life threatening illness and coma for 2 weeks. His faithfulness abounds even though I don’t deserve it! Praise HIM!

  81. I am so excited to read this book! One perfectly unique thing about me is that I will find the positive in ANY situation.

  83. I loved the book cover not because it reminded me of my uniqueness, but because it reminded me of my daughter’s. She too wore purple converse, or black almost converse during those hard 8-10th grade years. She was so determned to wear what made her feel good, no matter what others wore. She needs to read your book. Thanks.

  85. My very dorky sense of humor is a unique gift I have been blessed with. I love to laugh and make others do the same 🙂

  86. I’m unique because God gave me the mixed gifts of loving
    math (Chemical Engineer) and loving art (painter).
    I’m an extremely split brain…unique woman!

  87. I am perfectly unique because I’ve been chosen by God to not only be His child but also a wife and mother to Alexis to whom I had the pleasure of taking her to the Grand Rapids GOG and meeting not just you but a room filled with other mothers and daughters alike coming together in one place and in agreement prayed for our girls. That was truly a blessing. Thank you!
    Deb

  88. What a great story Annie! (And I LOVE the cover.) I’m perfectly unique because I love to DIY things and come up with original one-of-a-kind items, from shirts to earrings, from centerpieces to blankets.

  89. i am perfectly unique because nobody writes the same music and lyrics that i do. now THAT’S unique! 😉

  91. I tend to notice and encourage people when they’re least expecting. I love sending people cards even thoughbit might be a dying art.

  93. I’m a Caregiver…I take care of my daughter who has MS and I
    care for my granddaughter. I have been doing this for 17 years.
    I usually enjoy looking nice but lately I am worried all the time
    what people are thinking because 4 wks ago I fell while walking
    our dog. I hit my face on the sidewalk and crushed many of the
    bones in my face,..and now I am without my front 3 teeth. When
    I smile I know I look funny…LOL! Will be getting it fixed at the
    beginning of the year when the deductible will help out.

  94. I would love to win this book for my sister. She is unique, and I want her to know that its ok to be unique and different and to be true to herself, even though it can be hard when being a teenager in high school.

  95. I have big eyes that most Drs always ask if I have a thyroid problem…my answer “nope this is how God made me!! :)” I use to be made fun of when little but now I accept it as unique

  96. Dear Annie,

    Thank you for your story and I gotta tell you that EVERY time I see that book cover I want to buy that book!! No joke, just because of the cover! It speaks to me! The only reason I haven’t bought it is because I promised myself (& my husband) that I would not buy another book until I finish all the ones on my nightstand first…. There are five…

    So, why am I perfectly unique? I guess I would answer that question with a picture too. I create collage journals because it was the only way I could find to express myself on paper without getting caught up in the words of writing. I have a little space on my desk that represents me best. (someone else pointed it out) I have a flying pig pin next to a “bite me” bayou bait keychain next to a hanging cross and a Mary with baby Jesus ornament and a very happy piggy bank underneath… That pretty much explains me in a nutshell. =)

    Thanks for asking…and thanks for writing the book that I am sure I WILL own someday.

    Lina

  97. I love to organize things. My family think I’m nuts and it’s more an OCD thing but I just love it and consider it my hobby. When I find new ideas it gets the adreniline pumping and I cannot wait to try it out. I cut out pictures of organizing ideas and keep it in a scrapbook.

  98. I definitely have the gift of helping others as I’m always there to lend a helping hand and listening ear to those in need of encouragement and support! 🙂

  99. I’m perfectly unique bc I design cards for different occasions. I even designed Christmas cards for a friend that was hospitalized bc she wasn’t able to do it.

  100. Everyone looks at me and thinks I am quiet and shy but I feel quite the opposite. I am a quirky person and I love things and people that share my quirkiness.

  101. I am unique in soo many different ways. Got married later in life to wonderful guy that I met on the internet.

    We had 2 Iguanas–lizards of a nature. I love them–Big Iggy died this August, but little Tiny still roams the house. We sleep with him between us–weird huh? 🙂

    Another unique feature is that I do sign language to music for my little church. I hear a song–learn the lyrics and then put the signs to lyrics and put it all together.

    I love exercising. Running to music, dancing is my favorite. If I hear a good song or even a commercial I will dance around the house.

    Great post about the book & who did the cover. God works in mysterious ways His wonders to see! Would love to gift this book to my pastor’s wife. She work with the youth of our church and has been doing lessons on being beautiful, & unique!

  102. Wonderful how Papa uses our friends without our knowledge, but so like Him 🙂

    unique.. well yeah.. I read through the comments and feel like I have to compete. One is an encourager, another one is creative, the next one is…
    I don’t know about all that, honest. Walking through severe PTSS I didn’t have much to give..
    I’m me. Papa tells me that is just fine. That’s enough for me.

    The only reason I thought I comment is simply because I live in the Netherlands, usually not included in give-away’s because that is for within the US.. 🙂 but I just like you bunch of girls. You’re real.
    Thank you for that.

  103. I look forward to reading this book and I love the story about its cover. That is so like God 🙂 I would have to say that what is perfectly unique about me is that I own my imperfections. I don’t mean that I grovel or have a martyr complex, but that if someone asks about a difficult situation I am in, I can honestly talk about the not-so-pious thoughts that may occur as a result of difficulty and share what I have done to get past it. I am not ashamed of being an imperfect being because I know that my flaws are what makes God love me even more through His Son!

  104. Glad you asked. I am perfectly unique in that I am a perfect failure. No, really. You’ll see. I was a valedictorian who never managed to graduate from college. I’ve written lots of well-received Christian worship songs but have never been able to get them published. I write lots of little mini-essays about how all of life points us to God and teaches us about Him, but again, I can’t get them out there to people. And now I’ve spent 2 years designing and making jewelry and haven’t sold any of it yet…but maybe at next week’s craft show…

  105. Hmmmm…..how am I perfectly unique? I have to stop and think for a minute. It’s harder than I thought it would be. I’m a sinner, just like everyone else. I’m forgiven, just like everyone else. Jesus died for all. I guess if I had to pick a human characteristic that’s different from many others, I’d have to say it’s probably my corny sense of humor that makes my kids groan with embarrassment. But when Jesus healed the ten lepers, only one came back to praise him. This one was unique. Even though all have been forgiven, only some uniquely accept this gift and thank Him for it everyday by trying to live a life of repentance and service. God grant me the grace to live uniquely every day.

  107. I would have to say that it would be my loyal-to-a-fault side that makes me unique. No one has ever understood this part of me, and, I do not fully understand it, myself. I havent ever been in a situation where I could NOT forgive someone, and, there have been some hard things to get past.

  108. I am perfectly unique because I choose (with God’s help of course) to look at the bright side of situations. It is not always easy but I choose to be thankful for what I have and where I am . .. It can always be worse. I am often called Suzi Sunshine. 🙂

  109. I am unique in that I am an only child, for years an only parent to my children, now I am a widow, trying everyday to live my life for Christ!

  110. What’s unique about me…I’m crazy creative….I dance, sing, play piano, sew, quilt, design, write, draw, paint….I love it all, I love kids (have 6) and today, I’m wearing a skirt, because my husband asked me, too. Cause I’m cool like that! I love playing games on my ipad (but I restrict myself….cause otherwise I’d get nothing done)

  112. I am perfectly unique because I am tall, so tall. And because once I get started laughing, there is no stopping me.

  113. I am perfectly unique in the way that I can never get the cliche sayings right. I always seem to mix up the words and leave whomever I am talking with laughing! LOL

  115. My toes are perfect stair steps. The big toe is yes big, and down my toes go in a perfect angle to my little pinky–as a young 13 year old, I was being waited on in a shoestore in our small downtown (they did that way back then) and no sandals fit right because of my unique sloping toes. I complained. The lady/owner quietly said, Ah but my grandson is born without toes. It’s been hard but he has finally learned to walk.
    From that time on, if I’d complain, a still small voice would remind me, Ah but Gwen you have toes. And so now, I believe it is how God made me to say to me Gwen you are so very uniquely Mine, designed by Me, right down to your toes.

  116. What’s unique about me is that I’m a stay at home mom and in our house me and my husband split the chores 50/50….we’re a home of just rolling with the punches. I try to go with it and I really love that there’s not just one person responsible for the entire house. I feel like it brings us closer.

  118. I am unique because of my laugh. People either love it or hate it – it’s so loud.
    But my friends can identify my laugh from across a big, loud, crowded room – and they tell me it makes them smile to know TRS is laughing.

    question: My niece is 19 – out of high school for almost a year. Is this book for her? Or is it intended for a more juvenile audience?

  119. I love with my whole heart and stick by through thick and thin. I thrive on few close, real relationships. This is uniquely me 😉

  120. I am completely in tears over how God showed his love for you with that cover. That is only attributable to our gracious God… how beautiful!

  121. For many years, growing up, I didn’t think I was unique. I wore glasses, had braces, plain brown hair and brown eyes, i was short and i figured that I was just another normal girl. I played guitar, played piano, and loved photography. But i realized that all of these things together, combined makes me a unique person.

  122. I from Ohio, so it gets cold here during the Fall, Winter, and Spring months. And unless there’s snow on the ground, I can usually be found wearing my favorite pair of American Eagle flip flops. That’s what make me unique!

  123. I just love the cover story…It’s amazing how God works. I am unique in the way that I am the only one of my family that has lived in a 3rd-world country for a significant amount of time and can also fluently speak the language of that country.

  125. One unique thing about me? Hmmm, I can always find humor in any situation:) Life is too short to be sad – always try to find the positive!

  127. What makes me perfectly unique….I am technology challenged — no iphones, ipads, i-anything over here. I wouldn’t know the first thing about using them.

  128. I’m straight as a stick and flat chested and I wear flip flops all the time I can. I love with a love that is deep and misunderstood by the ones that I love the most. That is me since I can remember early on.

  129. God is so cool! And so is your cover! I am very much looking forward to reading your book, and to using it with my group of high school young ladies in our Bible study group!,,
    AND my 16 year old daughter has those shoes! Whoo-hoo!
    God Bless this project!

  130. Love the cover and the story behind it. Something unique about me? My maiden name and married name are the same. In fact, I used to tell people that he took my name!

  131. I am unique because I always wear 3 layers of socks at home, even in the summer! My feet are always cold!

  132. The best thing that makes me perfectly unique is I am Momma to Rachel and Sarah..the sweet girls I would share this book with-here’s hoping! Happy Thanksgiving y’all!!

  133. I am unique because I like to do fun unique things with my children (for example there is nothing wrong with having water gun fights in the house. Thankyou

  134. I struggle in learning to live more closely to God, but I am not giving up cause I want it bad, I am a bit bigheaded I guess… 🙂

  135. I am unique because I love a good conversation & yet feel so insecure to talk with a lot of people. I have to get to know a person before I feel freedom in conversation. Thanks for the opportunity to win this book. What a beautiful cover!

  137. I LOVED your story . . . when I read your post today I cried tears for my oldest daughter, another Converse wearing individual. We battled for years as she grew and I feared how she was growing. Now, I am so very proud of the woman and mom she has become.

    As for me being unique . . . I don’t think I am really unique except in God’s eyes, thank goodness for His love.

  138. I’m perfectly unique ~ in so many ways~ each one of them designed specifically by God for reasons only He knows 🙂

  140. I really don’t think there is anything perfectly unique about me, but I wanted to comment to say that I enjoyed reading the post. I also commented because I wanted a chance to win a copy of the book, but that’s not unique either. Thank you to both Annie and incourage!

  141. That’s an awesome story about the cover of your book! I’m unique because I have lived with chronic pain and invisible illness for over 11 years now. I know there are others who deal with similar situations, but I have only met a couple other young people who have a chronic illness or chronic pain and one of these friends who could relate well to me passed away last week. Sometimes I feel self-conscious about my physical limitations and sometimes people can be jugdemental which is hard. However, my circumstances have made me very dependent on my Lord, for which I am very grateful. Also, I’m shy and more of an introvert and often I wish I were a more fun, friendly, and outgoing person. I want to learn to see myself the way God sees me. Perfectly Unique sounds like a wonderful book that would be very helpful! Thank you for doing this giveaway!

  142. I am unique because I am 18 years old and I love Disney movies. I would rather watch a Disney Princess movie than go out with friends and watch a rated PG-13 or R movie filled with violence, profanity and sex.

    People call me childish…. but I’m proud 🙂

  143. Aaand… thank you for posting this!
    Since reading your blog post on your website about how much you loved the cover…. I have been waiting to know why. So thanks for telling all of us today! I think it’s awesome things worked out in that way!!

  145. I am perfectly unique because I just am… P.S. my parents told me I was named after Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Princess Aurora and that the castle at Disneyland was built for me. I still call it my castle…

  146. I am unique because of the million things about me that I have in common with other people – and yet those million things only come TOGETHER in me. (Also, I’m starting a new small group with a new group of high school girls this fall, and I would love to share this book with them.)

  147. I am becoming stronger than I ever thought since God blessed me with a preemie four years ago, each day is a challenge, but it makes our lives unique.

  148. What makes me perfectly unique are all my quirky imperfections – being an open book and offering up to much information to total strangers…..perfectionism that is portrayed as procrastination – I have been known to walk by something needing to be done numerous times for numerous days until I was ready (and knew how) to perfectly tackle the project.,….the list goes on…and on.

  149. I’d love your book for my girls! What makes me unique is I am the only Afrikaans speaking american lady that teaches music and dance and lives in Worcester, SA.

  154. My beautiful stretch marks from each of my beautful kids. No one else has marks like mine. And there is beauty in them.

  155. I am uniquely unable to think in/do anything within “the box”…knowing I have an undescribable, ginormous God who has made me in his image…makes me want to do BIG things!

  156. I’m perfectly unique bc I was made in God’s image. I also scare people with my memory. They forget they’ve mentioned things in conversation and when I’m bring it up, they’re surprised.

  158. the perefectly unique thing in me is … i never lose hope, thats’s why i survived cancer and i have a strong gut feel that i will have your book even if i will not be qualified in the five free give aways… when i saw this book, even by just looking at the cover i smiled as if it is whispering to my ears “take me am yours”…

  159. I felt so compelled to give this book to my two nieces and my friends daughter after only reading just one chapter. I wished I had this book when I was a teenager. I needed something like this as well. The cover relates to the younger generation. I think it is perfect.

  160. I’ m unique due to my two sons, one is a teenager, the other son in his 20’s telling me they love my REAL personality towards others and them as well. God gave them both tender hearts, even though this time of their lives is so very challenging .;-)

  161. I don’t know what sets me apart, really. I’m an average person in most ways – I’m not overly tall or short, I’m not stunningly beautiful or dazzlingly clever or angelically good. My kids are normal kids – good kids, smart kids, with a big dab of mischief thrown in to keep us on our toes. Like most women, I struggle with comparing myself to others – am I as well-dressed or as seemingly put-together as the other ladies in my church? am I as pretty as they are? are my children as well-behaved or am I not as good at motherhood? So again, average.

    And yet, we’re all unique. We all have things that make us just a bit different from others. Maybe it’s the blue chunks in my hair. Maybe it’s the silver jewel-studded ring in my navel, and the crazy story behind how that came to happen in my 27th year of life rather than in a moment of teenage rebellion. Maybe it’s my penchant for henna tattoos (they’re temporary), peasant skirts, and bright lipstick. Maybe it’s my undying love of all things sci fi and the deep (nerdy) need I have to own a pair of TARDIS earrings. It could be that I am a former fundamentalist turned “liberal” (as I used to call them!) Christian, married to a former fundamentalist turned atheist…I honestly don’t know any other Christian ladies who are in that situation! Or maybe it’s my passion for belly dance. While I don’t think any of these things make me better than other women or more interesting, they do make me unique. These things all point to what God has done and is doing in my life – the way He has led me and my family, how much He loves us, and especially the fact that He accepts me just as I am, and just where I am, flaws and all.

    This book looks great…even if I don’t win I think I’d like to find a copy and read it. Also, the shoes are awesome! : )

  162. I know we are all unique. I love to wear heels with my jeans and not tennis shoes. I love to wear jackets with my jeans & skirts. I’m sure there are other things!! Would love to win a copy of the book!

  163. I know we all are unique. I guess one of meey things is I like to wear heels with jeans instead of tennis shoes. I like to wear jackets with my jeans and skirts when I go out. I don’t like hanging around in the house in just sweat pants and tee shirts, and even crazier I wear makeup even when I know I’m not going out that day. Would love to win a copy of this book!

  164. I am perfectly unique as God created me and knows me well in all my thoughts and actions, those visible and hidden, which make me lovable to Him just as I am. Still determining my purpose in the life He’s given me, I know He’s crafted me just this way and will use me somehow.

  165. I’m created by God who made us unique in many different ways. I’m thankful that he loves us so much to give special gifts in each of our lives…it’s if we choose to use those gifts to further his kingdom & help others. Thanks for reminding us to take time to realize/find our gifts and use them to the glory of God! Let your Light SHINE!!!

  166. I’m unique because I started a book club after NOT being a ‘reader’ when i was younger and being in remedial reading in Elementry school. Now I love it and love encouraging others to read good books!

  167. I cry at the drop of a hat — especially at music. I would love to not cry quite so easily on many occasions, but that’s just ME.

    Thanks,
    Shana

  168. I am perfectly unique, bc God made me that way and at 51 I am finally starting to get it, accept it, and love it! I am not perfect, don’t want to be, never will be, but am aware of some of my qualities, and enjoy celebrating them and praising God for them.

  169. I’m unique because I am really a people person and love being with my friends but I am such a homebody. I love being at home with my family.

  170. Love, luv, ❤ your blog and how you write.
    I’m unique because I love to read and I end up falling to sleep with my book. Yes, I cuddle books! However, I’m thankful for a hubby that quietly and gently pries the books from my folded arms and tucks my bookmark inside so that my place is not lost. Hope you will pick me… pick me!

  171. I have 8 children – 4 of whom are wonderfully unique and delight-full! I would love to share this book with them.

  174. I am perfectly unique. I am a wonderful creation of God. I am loved and blessed mother of four.

  175. I’ve been shy my whole life. The spoken word has never come easily for me but God gave me a talent for writing and when I write the words just flow out of me so easily!

  176. Hmmm, I’m unique because He made me so, even though I thought that was a bad thing for a long time. I’m a 31 year-old woman who lives with her mother and enjoys being at home and doing chores more than she enjoys working for money like most people my age do. I haven’t had a single boyfriend since I was 16, because I’ve been in love with an impossible and unreachable love for over 13 years (and I don’t think I’ll ever stop…), and… In many ways, I’m just me. Like I said, I’ve thought that’s bad for a long time – and, sometimes, I still think so… -, but He’s making me realize that, even though I may hate some parts of myself and/or my “uniqueness”, I’m the way I am because he wants me to be this way for SOME reason. I don’t know why or why did He make me this way… But, I’m trying to be happy with who I am. 🙂

  178. Thank you for this opportunity–I’ve been wanting to read this book!
    I’m very introverted, shy and quiet…but when I’m with my family I can be extremely silly and sometimes even talkative.