Now, there's a headline that could draw some attention. And it does! Because who could resist taking a second look at someone with such seemingly opposite…. umm… interests. It definitely caught my attention. Where could this story go?
All over the place! THE PASTOR'S WIFE WEARS BIKER BOOTS by Karla Akins, was delightfully entertaining. With just the right balance of humor and heart-tugs to make it one of those "feel good" books that leaves you with more hope in the human race than you started with.
I not only enjoyed "riding along" with this crazy group of friends throughout the story, they continued to tag around with me long after I turned the last page. Loved the open honesty and golden heart of the main character, Kirstie Donovan, who actually admitted to being bothered by some of the things most of us would never be brave enough to tell anyone about. Oh, for friends like that!
But, hey-- they're out there. Because this book will have you taking a closer look at your own friends, and maybe seeing them in a different light than before. Which makes THE PASTOR'S WIFE WEARS BIKER BOOTS one of those books that not only entertains, but has "take away value., as well. Which, in my opinion, is one of the best kinds there are. Oh, yes, and it's realistic, too. Because author, Karla Akins, really IS a pastor's wife…
Who actually DOES wear biker boots!
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| Karla Akins' motorcycle at Deal's Gap where she tamed the dragon. |
Which is why I couldn't wait to ask her a few questions about that...
Welcome, Karla... I'm so glad you could stop by for a visit!
Thanks for having me, Lilly, I wouldn't have missed it.
Well, I better start with the thing I'm sure everyone is wondering about first: Are Kirsten's motorcycle adventures anything like your own real-life ones?
Yes they are. I attended motorcycle classes like Kirsten did but with a lot of practice before I took the class and I, too, had a difficult time learning how to master "the swerve." I also took a trip through the Smoky Mountains and rode the dragon (318 curves in 11 miles!). Oh, and I knocked over a coffee kiosk in a Harley Store once. I'm known for my gracefulness (not!).
I had a feeling about that, since the "realism" was all right there. I was also wondering if you are you a member of the Patriot Guard, or have you ever had any personal dealings with them.
I'm an "unofficial" member in that I am a member and can ride with them if called on but I've never had the privilege of riding with them--yet. I live a distance from where most of their rides are, so it's not been something I've gotten to do yet. I completely believe in what they do.
It definitely is something that would take a strong personal commitment, that's for sure. As a mom with three kids in the military, including a daughter deployed to Afghanistan, I can't say how much I appreciate that.
OK, are you ready for the really big question?
I'm always ready, Lilly. You have to be when you ride motorcycles.
I should say. So, here we go. Umm... have you ever had a Big Foot "experience?"
I wish I had! But no. However, I do believe it's possible that a North American primate species exists. I'm a huge Bigfoot fan and love hearing stories about them. I watch all the Bigfoot documentaries and series on TV. Can't get enough of them. Anything that's a mystery such as that intrigues me.
You and an amazing amount of other people! But it falls into one of those categories most wouldn't talk about, so, it was brave of you to bring it up. By the way, does anyone else in your family share your enthusiasm for motorcycles?
My husband and oldest son. In fact, I learned to ride so I could hang out more with them. They didn't think I'd do it. It really shocked them when I passed the first motorcycle written test.
I'll bet it got you a whole new brand of respect around your house! And, last but not least, I just have to ask if you have a name for your motorcycle, like Kirstie did for hers.
I do but I don't call it that very often. Right now my motorcycle is silver and I've called it Tin Man. But when it gets painted purple, I'm going to rename it Heaven (or if I ever get my trike!). I really love Kirsten's name for her bike.
It is a great name, and would be yet another connection between you and your wonderful story. You know, I feel like I've known you forever.
Wouldn't have it any other way, Lilly.
Karla Akins is a pastor's wife who rides her own motorcycle. She is the mother of four boys and one step-daughter, and grandmother of five. She lives in North Manchester with her husband who is the pastor of Christian Fellowship Church, her twin teenage boys with autism, mother-in-law with Alzheimer's and three rambunctious dogs. Karla and her husband have been in ministry together for 30 years. You can find out more about Karla by visiting her website at KarlaAkins.com.
