Today is a big day. Actually, it’s two big days wrapped into one.
Not only is it Laura’s birthday, but it’s also the official release of my brand-new book:
That’s My Goat – And Other Missionary Stories
Yes, you read that right. After years of writing, rewriting, laughing, and even a little sweating over the keyboard, the book is finally live and ready for you to order. And I can’t think of a better gift to the world (or to Laura) than sharing these stories with you.
Why I Wrote This Book
Missionary life in West Africa is never boring. It’s full of moments that make you laugh, cry, and sometimes wonder how in the world you made it out alive. Over the years, I’ve collected stories that range from funny cultural misunderstandings to miraculous moments of God’s protection.
I wanted to capture these experiences—not just for my own family, but for anyone who loves a good story. This book is written so you can enjoy it one story at a time. You don’t need to sit down for hours. Instead, you can pick it up, read a chapter out loud at the dinner table, in your Sunday School class, or even on a road trip.
It’s family-friendly, faith-encouraging, and just the right mix of humor and inspiration.
A Book With a Purpose
I didn’t just want to tell funny tales about snakes in garages or near-misses with African traffic. My goal is that every reader will walk away with a deeper desire to serve God with their lives.
If a missionary story can make you laugh and then challenge you to step out in faith, that’s a win in my book (pun fully intended).
Where You Can Get It
The fastest way to grab your copy is right here:
👉 Buy That’s My Goat – Joe Consford
But that’s not the only place. If you’re local to East Texas, you’ll soon be able to find copies at:
- Central Baptist Church in Center, TX – our home church.
- HOTS Coffee in San Augustine, TX – yes, you can pick up a latte AND a missionary story at the same time.
Signed copies are also available directly from me. Just email me at consford@gmail.com with the subject line “Sign My Book” and tell me how you’d like it signed.
Why You’ll Love It
Here’s the thing—this isn’t a dry “missionary report.” It’s storytelling. If you’ve ever enjoyed sitting around listening to someone spin a tale that makes you laugh until your sides hurt, then suddenly realize you learned something deep at the same time, this is the book for you.
Imagine:
- Reading about a green mamba snake while sipping coffee.
- Laughing at cultural mix-ups that will make you thankful for your GPS.
- Learning life lessons from everyday events like car breakdowns, wedding ceremonies, and surprise encounters with village chiefs.
You’ll find all of that and more inside these pages.
Let’s Celebrate Together
Honestly, I couldn’t be more excited. Today we celebrate Laura’s birthday. Today we celebrate the launch of That’s My Goat. And today we celebrate YOU—the friends, family, and readers who have supported us through this journey.
So let’s make it official.
👉 Order your copy now and join the adventure:
That’s My Goat – And Other Missionary Stories
Read it with your family. Share it with your church. Or just keep it by your favorite chair for a quick laugh and a reminder that God is faithful.
Final Thought
Stories have power. They make us laugh, they move us to tears, and they remind us that God is at work—even in the wildest moments of life. I hope this book blesses you, entertains you, and encourages you to live fully for the Lord.
Now go ahead—make my day (and Laura’s birthday) by ordering your copy right now.