Feature Writer of the Week: Dani Stroda

Tell me a little about yourself.

I’ve been married to the man of my dreams for over 18 years. Mitch and I have four kids – all girls! Our first three are 17, 14 and 12. And thennnnn, when our youngest was 8 1/2, our SURPRISE was born! I love being mama to my teens and my toddler. My biggest passions are family and relationship, so I’m really intentional about making these my top priorities. I’ve been involved in church ministry since I was 14 years old – filling lots of roles. Currently, my husband and I are in full-time itinerate ministry as we base out of Kearney, Nebraska and we also run a school of ministry out of our home church, Grace Fellowship. Most recently I have launched a monthly women’s ministry called, The Gathering. It’s been exciting to see women come together from all over the region, from all different church backgrounds, for the purpose of connection! And probably my biggest current accomplishment is having my first book about to go to print! “Journey Through the Door” is a 31-day devotional that will be released in December. 

When did you start blogging and why?

I started my blog, Whimsy in my Cup, in the summer of 2013. I’ve always loved to write and entertained the thought of authoring books for years. When I started blogging, it was the same as my journaling habits – sporadic! But it felt good having an outlet for my thoughts and experiences. My goal in writing – whether in blogging, Facebook status’ or in writing a book – is to encourage and empower people… well, and to make them laugh. I think laughing is really important!

What are some of your favorite sites on the ‘net?

Honestly, I have a major obsession with social media! So Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest are my top sites. Since I’ve come into the Her View Family, I’ve loved browsing current and past articles. People are truly amazing and I love to read their stories.

What does a typical day look like for you?

No day looks the same but every day ALWAYS starts with coffee! After that, most days include time spent reading my Bible and other books, writing, hanging out with my 3-year-old and taking care of ‘home.’  This last month I put the finishing touches on “Journey Through the Door” and also participated in a daily blog challenge called, Write 31 Days, so there’s been a ton of daily screen time! Because I’m super huge on relationship, coffee dates and lunches are usually on my weekly agenda. Lots of ministry administration happens throughout the week too. Throw the twice-a-day 20 minute school run and the kids’ social activities in and well, the days and weeks fly by!

What advice do you have for someone who wants to blog or share her/his story?

Start sharing! Writing is an amazing outlet but sharing YOU with everyone around you is so important. I think being authentic and real – whether in word or on paper – is absolutely essential to being fulfilled in life!

What story are you most proud of?  

Gosh, I don’t know. I’m probably most proud of my soon-to-be-released book because I know the fears I faced to get to this point. As for something out there already, an article on my blog a couple months ago was the most raw and vulnerable I’ve probably ever been. I value that in people so I’d probably say “The Post Where I Use Asterisks…A Lot” was a biggie for me.

How can people follow you?

Oh man, I’m all over the place but here’s the main sites.

On Facebook, you can find me at: Whimsy In My Cup

My blog is: whimsyinmycup.wordpress.com

I have a couple Instagram accounts: whimsyinmycup and javamamma6

I’m on Twitter: javamamma5