Peachtree City

resident Carrie Runnals always used to doodle a character she called "The

Dude." Her husband and father liked the character and encouraged

her to do something with it. She began to put sayings with it and decided

that maybe the right venue for "The Dude" was a greeting card.

Initially,

Runnals considered producing and selling her cards on her own but after

visiting a Web site dedicated to linking freelance artists and writers

with greeting card companies her focus changed. Though the Web site consultant

thought the character was cute, she didn't think it was polished enough

and would limit Runnals chance of having her writing seriously considered.

She advised Runnals to concentrate primarily on her writing and to enter

a contest the Web site was hosting.

Runnals won

the contest and received a free linked Web page showcasing her work to

prospective card companies. That led to a contract with Amberley Greetings

who paired her verses with a professional artist's host of characters.

So, though her doodle ended up on cutting room floor, it has led to a

line of light-religious cards,published by Amberley Greetings, and could

possibly be the first step in a lucrative career.

Amberley currently

has 52 cards available with topics ranging from Happy Birthday, Congratulations

and Thank You to Wedding, Baby and Get Well cards.

"Carrie

has a gift for linking just the right Bible verse to her sentiments, providing

deeper meaning for each occasion," said Amberley's president, Dan

Cronstein. "We have high aspirations for this line. It is spiritual

in nature, but the writing and art are whimsical and charming; not your

traditional religious card."

Runnals resides

in Peachtree City with her husband, Joe, and her daughters Danielle and

Marisa. She has always loved writing and is currently working on a children's

book but is also focused on creating more greeting cards.

"I am

very excited about this endeavor," said Runnals. "I have felt

God's guiding hand and the steadfast support of my husband, family and

friends throughout this entire process. Ultimately, I am hopeful that

these cards encourage more meaningful relationships for those who purchase

them and those who receive them."

Runnal's cards are available locally at Cardsmart in

the Braelinn Shopping Center.

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