“Reading this memoir was so refreshing as it brings together a tour of several generations, engaged in everyday life and struggle, working out where authentic, gritty faith meets real relationships and reason–heart-warming and mentally rigorous. – John Burke, New York Times bestselling author of “Imagine Heaven“.
I proudly claim the beautiful little town of Mendham, NJ as my hometown. I was fortunate to grow up on The Seeing Eye Breeding Division property just outside of town where my father served as the director. The Seeing Eye is an outstanding organization that provides guide dogs to assist the blind. I lived with my parents, John and Marion, brothers, John and Jeff and sister Joanne. I was blessed to grow up in a family that I loved and knew loved me. I attended St. Joseph Catholic School and Mendham High School. After receiving my bachelors and masters degrees from Lock Haven and East Stroudsburg Universities respectively; I worked my entire career in sports medicine. I thoroughly enjoyed helping athletes prevent and manage their injuries. It was a very enjoyable and rewarding career.
When I retired , I prayed and asked God to let me know what he would like me to do since I had a bit more time on my hands. The answer came pretty quickly and that was to write a book about my struggles with faith. I prayerfully responded by asking “Are you sure? I’ve never written a book and it sounds like a lot of work!” During my career as a teacher and athletic trainer, I have done quite a bit of writing but that writing was for newsletters, course materials and seminars. And, I never particularly enjoyed writing. I viewed it as necessary but not particularly enjoyable. So, I asked again just to be sure I hadn’t misunderstood. The answer didn’t change. I thought okay if that is what God wants me to do; I will give it a try. So, that is how I ended up writing “Bet on the Turtle-: My Long, Slow Journey of Faith. I credit God for inspiring and guiding me on this little adventure. I hope you enjoy the book. I have to admit, writing it was quite enjoyable and therapeutic!
I also hope you consider reading my new book, “I Love Dogs, A Tribute to Man’s Best Friend” which will be coming out in June 2025 and available for pre-order soon.
From Michael Hingson, New York Times #1 Best Selling Author and Inspirational Speaker
“When I was asked to read “I Love Dogs” and write an endorsement I wasn’t sure when to expect from the book. I was EXTREMELY and pleasantly surprised to read a book written by someone who clearly understands dogs and who communicates quite well about these creatures. James Weagley does an excellent job of helping his readers not only learn why he is so fond of dogs, but also James spends a great deal of time providing wonderful instruction and ideas of how we all can become better dog owners and dog friends.
“I have been using guide dogs for 61 years and dogs were a part of my life even before July 1, 1964 when I received my first guide dog, Squire. Reading James’ book brings back so many fond memories for me. I think any dog owner will love the memories James evokes. If you are not a dog owner, Mr.Weagley’s book will show you how much these wonderful creatures enrich all our lives. So, if you do not currently have a dog, go get one and use all the instructional information in “I Love Dogs” to create a relationship you will treasure.”
All of the money earned from sales of this book is donated to the following charities/organizations: Saint Jude’s Children’s Hospital Compassion International The Mennonite Central Committee Parkesburg Point Youth Ministry
I have lived in the picturesque rolling farmland of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania since my college graduation. Our family loves it here. My family includes my wife Karen, twin sons, Jeremy (Wife- Melissa) and Matthew, and daughter Katie (Husband- Andrew). I am also an extremely proud “Papa” to grandchildren, Elizabeth, Eomer, Liam, Aidan and Emily!