Growing Spiritually

I love when a sermon speaks loud and clear to me. Yesterday our minister shared five measures of spiritual maturity. Have you ever wondered what a person devoted to a relationship with Jesus looks like? I have, especially when I look in the mirror. That's why I want to share these great goals for a more spiritual life.

Spiritual Maturity Markers

• Stay positive under pressure, James 1:2
• Be sensitive to the needs of others, 1 John 3:17
• Live as a peacemaker, Matthew 5:9, 1 Thessalonians 4:11
• Be patient Psalm 27:14
• Be prayerful, 1 Thessalonians 5:1

How about it? What do you see as a goal for spiritual maturity?

thereformedwesleyan.com

Chapel Springs Revival by Ane Mulligan

I read the most delightful and hilarious book I’ve read in a while. Ane has created a wonderful array of characters in the small town of Chapel Springs. I’m a huge fan of Gilmore Girls and I have to say Chapel Springs reminds me of the southern version of Stars Hollow. And what would Claire do without her dear friend Patsy, who had troubles of her own. Claire’s dilemmas both warmed my heart and made me laugh out loud. I chose to read Chapel Springs Revival as I recovered from surgery. It was the perfect medicine.

Pay Attention

Knee replacement has given me a new perspective on what it means to pay attention. Being temporarily disabled, I've had to use a cane and a wheelchair. The cane slows me down, so I tend to appreciate the weather, the solid sidewalk, and the the outdoors in general a lot more. I've always been thankful for my surroundings, but going at a snail's pace makes me much more alert to what's around me.

Then there's the wheelchair. I used one when I went to the grocery store or any other big box store. When I shopped, previous to surgery, I tried to be aware of what was around me. I never wanted to step in front of someone else or get in the way, even though I probably did. Now from the perspective of a child's height, in a chair that I had to guide, my eyes were opened to the difficulty that comes from other people not seeing what's around them. People cut in front of me, or overlooked me and pushed past. Not everyone, but most. I did have a young man offer his help as well as an employee. And of course my husband. Then there were the items on out-of-reach shelves, especially the lower shelves. When the cans were pushed back I couldn't see them, let alone reach them by myself. Although I could stand to reach the top, many people can't.

Another observation I discovered is that many people who use the chairs have invisible disabilities. I tend to believe if someone is in a chair, they need to be. As soon as I am back on my feet, I'll offer my help. If people want it great, if not that's fine too.

My purpose in writing this little rant is to bring to attention the need to "pay attention." Be aware of surroundings. See who's beside you. Know what's going on. Offer a hand. Get out of the way. Be polite and compassionate. Just pay attention!

Desperate Measures by Christy Barritt

Christy Barritt has once again penned a heart-racing thriller. As soon as I opened the first chapter, I knew I was in for a roller coaster of emotions, surprises and excitement. And she did not disappoint. In this romantic suspense, the perfect hero steps in to rescue the heroine. But he doesn’t know why or what he’s in for. One of the things that shines through Christy's books is the amount of research she’s put in to make the details accurate and the story believable. I love the thrill of the chase, the tension of the romance brewing and the endless doubt that anything will work out. Most of all, I enjoyed the satisfying ending. If you enjoy suspense, you'll want to pick this one to keep you up at night. If you're new to the genre, this is an excellent choice to introduce yourself to it. I highly recommend Christy's new book, Desperate Measures.

Say I Love You

My beautiful niece Brea snapped a photo of the Le mur des je t'aime in Paris, France. I'd never heard of this, so I clicked the link. The web site was in French, so I still didn't know. Thankfully, Brea filled me in. The wall has the words "I love you" written in 160 languages. What a beautiful sight. 

That made me wonder. How can I show people I love them in 160 different ways? Here are a few.

• Write a letter
• Tuck a note in a lunch box (I did this for my kids and they did it for me) 
• Hug more
• Encourage-- not just when they're down, but everyday (my husband does this)
• Give a smile
• Share a cookie
• Send a card-- especially to kids in college or folks in the military
• Serve a favorite food
• Listen
• Say I love you...

These are easy ways to share love. And there are so many more.

I'd love to know how you "show" I love you. Share please--

Worth Remembering

I spotted this at the doctor's office the other day. A saying worth remembering.

Arbuckle Mountain Original Fried Pies and Coffee

Tim and I like to try out different eateries in the area. After we grabbed a cheese burger at Five Guys, one of the best hamburger joints ever, we checked out Arbuckle Mountain Original Fried Pies and Coffee. They serve several fruit and cream pies plus pecan. We tried the blackberry and it’s delicious.

According to the gentleman working, a fried pie has fewer calories than a glazed donut. Plus they are big enough to split with a friend. I don’t think I could eat a whole one by myself.

Tim sipped coffee with his half of the pie and I tried the Earl Grey Lavender tea. Both got a thumbs up.

Later, I googled Arbuckles and the Original Fried Pie shop, and discovered that a grandmother first created the pies for ranchers and ranch hands in 1893. They’d pack well and be easy to eat on the job. I can envision her rolling out the round dough stuffing it with meat and vegetables or sugared fruit, folding them in half and frying them up. I love the ingenuity of grandmas. According to my grammy, her widowed mother (my great-grandma) sold her homemade pies at the local grocery to help support their family.

If you’re hankering for pie and you live in the area, check out Arbuckle Mountain Original Fried Pies and Coffee next to Jungle Jim’s in Eastgate. Yum!

If you’re not in Ohio, find other locations on Google by typing in Original Fried Pies or Arbuckle Mountain Pies.

What kind of pie is your favorite?

Random Birthday Thoughts

My daughter Hannah woke me up at 6:30 this morning to sing Happy Birthday. That's how I used to wake up my girls every year on their birthdays. I still do sometimes :). What we do in our children's lives leaves an impression. She remembered the tradition and took joy in croaking out the song in the wee hours, on a Saturday morning. As much as I don't like waking up early, I loved hearing her voice and knowing that she remembered her mama. 

After 57 years of birthdays, I pretty much accept that I'm getting older. My body feels the creaks and aches even as my mind tricks me into thinking I'm still forty. 

Blessings (in no particular order):

• Tim and I traveled to South Carolina and Northern Ohio. 
• We discovered a lovely place called Kelleys Island. I fell in love with this quaint, calm village in the middle of Lake Erie. I want to go back.
• We have a new granddaughter, Ella Cate. She's pure joy. 
• Enjoyed our other seven grandkids as they grow and learn.
• Watched lots of baseball from T-ball to MLB. Love those Reds!
• Visited family and celebrated our nieces graduations. One from high school and one from college. 
• I spent a week with my daughter, her son, and brand new daughter.
• I've shared books with Dylan. I love to encourage reading.
• Work is good.
• I've gotten lots of hugs.
• Kept in touch with friends.
• I'm still writing, slow but sure. 
• I love my critique group. 
• Church is inspiring.
• I'm thankful for Jesus and his love for me.
• And I know there's more to come...

I'm not looking forward to knee replacement surgery in August, but I am looking forward to positive results. 

So here I am. Fifty-seven years old. Three years from sixty. Thankful for the wisdom I've gathered along the way. 

Before I close, I want to share my life verses:

1 Thessalonians 4: 10-12
And in fact, you do love all of God’s family throughout Macedonia. Yet we urge you, brothers and sisters, to do so more and more, and to make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business and work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody.

         
1 Peter 5:7

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

Is there a Small Town You Love?

I grew up near a small town and to this day, I'd say that's a good thing. 

We lived in the country and traveled to town for groceries at Woody's, named after the owner. Hardwood floors held metal shelves filled with items like the latest Jell-O-Dream Whip treat. My brother worked there and the butcher knew the cut of meat my mom wanted before I asked. 

My sister worked at O'Dell's drug store. Sometimes after school, I'd walk to the store to wait on her. He had the best comic book display in town. Down the street, stood the local library. Another place I spent many hours. One librarian kept the place running. Many a treasured stories went home with me, where I spent hours on the front porch with the characters, who rode horses, solved mysteries and lived in fascinating places.

As I write my own stories, I try to weave in some of the small town charm I remember. America still touts many villages and communities that offer folks a quaint, friendly experience. Check back to read about some our countries wonderful small towns and the delights of living there.

Is there a small town you love?  

Turtle Creek ~ Where I Live in My Imagination

In the series I'm currently writing, I've created the community of Turtle Creek, Ohio. I used elements from three towns close to the area where the imaginary Turtle Creek is located. Over the winter one of the small towns upgraded their downtown and created a lovely small town environment. Here are a few pictures of the beautification:

The majestic court house.

Black fencing with new trees.

I love the brick walkways-they sparkle.

Islands of foliage and flowers.

A hometown feel.

Blind Trust by Sandra Orchard

BlindTrust by Sandra Orchard

Kate Adams had no idea she was carrying counterfeit money and can't believe that it came from her sweet elderly neighbor. Or that it has landed her in the middle of another of Detective Tom Parker's investigations. Determined to prove her neighbor's innocence, Kate stumbles into a pit of intrigue far deeper than a two-bit counterfeit operation--and one that strikes too close to home for comfort.

As family secrets come to light, her world--and her budding romance with Tom--begin to crumble. To Kate, it's clear that she won't be safe until she uncovers all of Port Aster's secrets. But then will it be too late for her and Tom?

Review:
Kate Adams is in trouble again, and Detective Tom Parker wants to protect her. In Book 2 of the Port Aster Secrets series, Sandra Orchard sets the pace of this page turner in the first paragraph. As Kate struggles with accusations and the mystery that shrouds her father’s death, Tom works to catch counterfeiters. As the two become entwined in intrigue and secrecy, the story races to an intense end and leaves the reader anxious for book 3.

If you enjoy fast paced suspense with a bit of romance, you’ll enjoy Blind Trust.

Thanks to the publisher for providing a complimentary  copy of this book for the purpose of reviewing this book honestly.

Great Reads for Summer

I just finished Debbie Macomber's Blossom Street Brides. I've read the whole series and enjoyed every one.




The Shop on Blossom Street 2004
A Good Yarn 2005                                            
Susannah’s Garden (related stand-alone) 2006

Back on Blossom Street 2007

Twenty Wishes 2008

Summer on Blossom Street 2009

Hannah’s List 2010

The Twenty-First Wish 2011

A Turn in the Road 2011

Starting Now 2013

Blossom Street Brides 2014

Check them out from your local library.

While Love Stirs by Lorna Seilstad

Description from Revell web site:

As a graduate of Fannie Farmer's School of Cookery, Charlotte Gregory is thrilled to have the opportunity to travel, lecture, and give cooking demonstrations on the very latest kitchen revolution--the gas stove. And she certainly doesn't mind that the gas company has hired the kindhearted Lewis Mathis to entertain at her lectures.

Lewis encourages Charlotte's work, especially her crusade to introduce fresh, appetizing, nutritious food to those convalescing in hospitals. But young hospital superintendent Dr. Joel Brooks is not convinced any changes should be made--especially by this outspoken young woman.

When Charlotte and Joel are coerced into planning a fund-raising gala for the hospital, will this combustible pair explode?

Follow the second Gregory sister as she looks for true love and makes her way in a rapidly changing world in this breezy, lighthearted love triangle that will keep you guessing. 

My review:
Lorna Seilstad draws from history to create a realistic backdrop for Charlotte Gregory’s adventures in cooking. This spunky character faces challenges with hope and determination even when two handsome men distract and fluster her. Strong female characters surround Charlotte as she breaks into a new role. She’s not just a cook, she tries her hand selling a brand new product to the women of Wisconsin.

As much as I enjoyed Charlotte’s story of progress in the kitchen and love on the burner, too many details bogged down the story about two-thirds of the way through. I’m giving the book four stars because the author did a great job capturing the time period and drawing out interesting characters. If you enjoy historical fiction with a light touch, you’ll like While Love Stirs.

Thanks to the publisher for providing a complimentary  copy of this book for the purpose of reviewing this book honestly.

Wednesday Wisdom

One Perfect Spring by Irene Hannon

Book Description from Revell Books:

Independent single mom Claire Summers is doing her best to make lemonade out of the lemons life has handed her. Workaholic Keith Watson is interested only in the bottom line--until a letter from Claire's eleven-year-old daughter reaches his desk and changes everything.

As the executive assistant to a philanthropic businessman, Keith is used to fielding requests for donations. But the girl isn't asking for money. She wants help finding the long-lost son of a neighbor. As Keith reluctantly digs into this assignment in his usual results-oriented style, he has no idea how involved he and Claire will become--nor how unusual the results will actually be. Who could have guessed that a child's kindhearted request would bring love and hope to so many lives . . . including his own?

My Review:
Irene Hannon knows how to write romance. One Perfect Spring carried me to that place where nothing else seems to matter except the beautifully written story in front of me. Whether reading about Claire and her daughter, Haley, and the trials of everyday life or Keith’s journey to find peace and understand life, Irene’s well-developed characters and crisp descriptions kept me turning the pages.

As much as I enjoyed following Claire and Keith’s story, I loved Maureen and David’s tale of discovery. The stories are woven together like a colorful Jacquard tapestry. If you enjoy well-written stories about love and life, you’ll love One Perfect Spring.

Thanks to the publisher for providing a complimentary copy of this book for the purpose of reviewing this book honestly.

Hello Spring!

Tulips welcoming spring

Crab apple tree enjoying the sunshine

Willow tree branching out

Easter Happiness, Easter Joy!

CC by Wordless Thursday

Easter comes as the flowers bloom and the earth wakes up with greening leaves and blooming buds. The beauty of the earth surrounds us and the promise of warm weather lingers on the edge of the day. Children search for eggs fashioned with colors and designs and even find baskets filled with treats. The fun of Easter blesses us with happiness. The joy of Easter fills us with hope. I praise God for his son and the love he showed us. I've posted an Easter devotion at http://encouragementjourney.blogspot.com/2014/04/he-has-risen.html. I'd love for you to read it then share an Easter blessing. 

Value of Libraries

I was asked to write a letter to the editor of our local paper. The branch manager at the library explained that the library levy was set to come up in May. I was happy to oblige. The letter was published in both local papers along with others who voiced the need for the levy to pass. I want to share the letter here because I believe that we need libraries in all communities. If your library is up for vote, please show support. As a reader and a writer, I appreciate what the public library has to offer.

Dear Editor:

When I was a little girl, I loved visiting the library. I’d roam through the stacks seeking a story that would sweep me into another time or place. Little Women, Ann of Green Gables, Marguerite Henry’s horse tales, including Misty of Chincoteague entertained me for hours. As an adult with young children, I took my daughters to the library for books, videos and music. We’d read stories together and pick out movies for family night. When I worked at a public library I loved matching patrons with books, especially children. Many of the senior population depended on the library’s resources.

Now this wonderful public service has evolved to offer not only books, magazines, and newspapers. They also have ebooks, DVDs, books on CD, digital downloads, large print books, homebound delivery, free programs for children, teens and adults, meeting rooms for public use, computers, and so much more. Many children look forward to the library’s summer reading program. The activities and challenges offer a wonderful way for kids to keep up their reading skills during the summer. One of my favorite aspects of the library is the web site. It offers easy access to books and items across the state of Ohio. I can place a hold on a book from a library in Toledo and the currier carries it to southern Ohio for me to check out. They also have the latest best sellers in fiction and nonfiction and offer assistance for job seekers.

In May, the citizens of our county will have the opportunity to renew the levy for the public libraries. What a privilege to be part of the renewal process. When the levy passes the average homeowner will pay less than the price of a quarter pounder (per month) for all of these offerings. I don’t know about you, but I’d love to see the levy pass. If you aren’t a library user, go to one of the branches and check out the incredible resources available to all users. Then show up at the polls and vote yes for our library.

What do you love about your library?

Book Review: What Follows After by Dan Walsh

Back Cover Summary:

In October 1962, Colt Harrison and his little brother, Timmy, hatched a plan. They would run away from their Florida home, head for their aunt's house in Savannah, Georgia, and refuse to come home until their parents got back together. But things go terribly, terribly wrong. Colt's mother and father must come to grips with years of neglect and mistrust in order to recover their beloved sons, their love for one another, and their broken marriage.

I loved this well-written page-turner written by an author who goes right to the heart of the story. Dan allows the reader a peek into the present, then sweeps them into 1962. I would have been five years old when the story took place. The memories I have from that era are confirmed by his thorough research and well painted picture of the times. He incorporates the American Dream, of those times, and the views on family and life as he tells the story of a broken family and their journey to recovery.

I finished the book in two days, which is rare for me. As a reader, I sometimes struggle with books written by male authors, but Dan has his finger on the pulse of the characters' emotions as he places them in a world of fear, faith, and love. If you enjoy well-written, fast-paced stories about family and faith, read What Follows After. Five + stars.

Waiting for Spring

Every garden needs a little gnome. He's patiently waiting for spring.

Summer of Joy by Ann. H. Gabhart

Summer of Joy

Summary from back cover: 

For Jocie Brooke, the summer of 1964 certainly was eventful, but it's nothing compared to what's coming to Hollyhill, Kentucky, and the Brooke family next. The past is coming to call, threatening to destroy the relationships that everyone thought were so strong. Two people--one thought to be gone for good and the other no one's ever heard of--are making their way to the small town. And it promises trouble for everyone.

Review:

Ann Gabhart spins a pleasing tale of family, love, and small town life in Summer of Joy. Set in the 1960s while men go to Vietnam and the Beetles sing about love, David balances work, a congregation and an eclectic family. Leigh loves David and wants more than anything to join his lovable clan.

Hollyhill is full of quirky and lovable characters layered with lives of complication, compassion, and faith. I enjoyed meeting each one and watching them bloom. Ann does an amazing job creating the people in this small town. From young Jocie, the local archivist and wanna be journalist to Zella, romance reader and top notch Christian, readers will love the entertaining story lines as the folks are intertwined in each others’ lives. I enjoyed stepping back in time to a slower pace. Grab a cup of coffee and slip into this touching story, sprinkled with comedy and suspense.

Photos from http://www.annhgabhart.com/index.html

Spring!

Little Flower Bed

Little flower bed--
buried in brown leaves,
dead stems, and wilted fingers--
longs for bursts of fuchsia, gold,
India green and tangerine.

Melted snow
saturated the soil. Woke the roots.
The black-eyed Susan babies
(a friend shared last year)
race to break through.

My little garden dreams
of spring. Fresh buds, rubber-red peony sprouts,
gray lavender, drooping columbine,
jewel toned zinnias.

Soon, little garden, soon.

Honored to have an article in Southern Writers magazine

My article "Always a Tourist" is featured in the March/April issue of Southern Writers magazine.

A Stroke of Art

If you live near a city or an artsy town, you may have visited studios hosting painting parties. Friday evening, two of my daughters, my niece, and I spent the evening at Stroke of Art where art is a party. The cozy studio tucked into a corner in Withamsville, Ohio hosts painting parties, special events and art for children.

Our Instructor Carrie

When we arrived, our instructor, Carrie, greeted us with a kind welcome. She set us up with easels, canvas, paints, water, brushes and pallet knives. As a group, we selected the painting we wanted to create. Even though we followed the same idea, our choice of colors and our personal styles made our finished art unique.

As much as I appreciated the perfect set-up with generous supplies, I loved the laughter, encouragement and camaraderie with the girls. We snapped pictures, reminisced, admired each other’s work and just enjoyed being together.

No matter your ability, I highly recommend this fun experience.

Do you have an art studio where you can paint or have an art party? If you do, please share.

Spring is Coming

Tired of snow and cold weather? It’s almost March and soon we’ll see tulips blooming, trees budding, and daffodils dancing. Children will run outside and play, and winter coats will return to our closets. 

As much as I love winter, I also appreciate spring. I’m sure God knew we’d need a ray of hope towards the end of the white, cold winter. 

I hope this photo, I took near Travelers Rest, SC a few years ago, brings you joy and hope for spring.

The Dream Dress by Janice Thompson

The Dream Dress by Janice Thompson

Book 3 in the Weddings by Design series

Stitched together with love and laughter, The Dream Dress introduces us to Gabi Delgado, wedding dress designer. Trouble is she spends more time sewing hems, altering bodices and securing beads than sketching dresses. Has designing become a distant dream lost in the piles of satin and lace? Not if her friends can help it.

This romantic comedy has just the right blend of funny, lovable characters who take Gabi with them on their journey as they serve God. From Gabi’s rude and demanding boss to her attractive acquaintance, Jordan Singer, author Janice Thompson punches up their story with humor and romance.  I laughed out loud at this delightful tale of wishes and dreams.

I recommend this to anyone who enjoys reading about weddings, falling in love, the wedding industry or just a sweet read. Five stars.

Description from the back of the book:

A lowly seamstress at a swanky bridal boutique, Gabi Delgado dreams of doing more than ripping out seams and fitting dresses to doe-eyed brides. She wants to see her own original dress designs gracing the young women of Texas. But when Jordan Singer, reporter for Texas Bride magazine, visits the shop to do a feature, Gabi is humbled in his influential--and unnervingly handsome--presence.

Convinced she'll never get her dreams off the ground now, Gabi needs lots of encouragement--especially from her friend Bella Neeley--to take a chance and start her business. And as she gets to know Jordan, she discovers that she may have to take a chance on love as well.

Thanks to the publisher for providing a complimentary copy of this book for the purpose of reviewing this book honestly.

My Poetry

I've added new tabs to my blog. If you enjoy reading or writing poetry check out:

http://www.pennyfrostmcginnis.com/p/small-town-oem.html

http://www.pennyfrostmcginnis.com/p/my-poetry.html

http://www.pennyfrostmcginnis.com/p/haiku.html

Thanks for stopping by.

A Valentine to God

Photo:Blue Peeling Paint Background/www.toasto.com

Home at Last by Anita Higman

Anita’s latest with Heartsong, Home at Last, takes the reader on a roller coaster ride of emotions as Olivia and Noah discover that everything they believed may be tumbling down around them.

Olivia set aside her own goals and dreams to care for her employer for more than twenty years. Noah believed his mother and resented his father. Two people caught in a web of deceit struggle to regain trust. Only God can lead them to the truth.

Anita delivers a tender story of love even as Olivia’s innocence and Noah’s worldliness clash. Through emotion and searching, the story carries the reader through the ups and downs of discovery and acceptance. The beautiful, but rundown old house where Noah grew up and Olivia’s lived for more than twenty years is a fascinating backdrop. I love when a home or town act as another character in a story.

Anita’s writing, as usual, paints a beautiful picture of life and the abundant love God has for His people. This quick read will stick with you as you contemplate how trust in God can change your life.

A little hope for winter...

A January Bride by Deborah Raney

A January Bride is the second book in A Year of Weddings novellas penned by twelve different inspirational authors.

These are perfect books for an evening read, while you wrap up in a blanket, and sip hot chocolate.

Writer, Madeleine Houser, moved her life from New York City to Kansas to help out her sister. Unfortunately, her sister’s home is being remodeled which means no peace and quiet to write. Neighbor, Ginny has the perfect solution— Arthur Tyler’s Inn.

Deborah creates a sweet story with a delightful twist. If you enjoy well written happily ever after stories of love, you’ll like A January Bride.

I plan to read them all. A December Bride by Denise Hunter is also available.

Found this interesting poem contrasting reality and dream

Winter Sleep

by Edith Matilda Thomas

I know it must be winter (though I sleep)--

I know it must be winter, for I dream 

I dip my bare feet in the running stream, 

And flowers are many, and the grass grows deep. 

I know I must be old (how age deceives!) 

I know I must be old, for, all unseen, 

My heart grows young, as autumn fields grow green 

When late rains patter on the falling sheaves. 

I know I must be tired (and tired souls err)-- 

I know I must be tired, for all my soul 

To deeds of daring beats a glad, faint roll, 

As storms the riven pine to music stir. 

I know I must be dying (Death draws near)-- 

I know I must be dying, for I crave 

Life--life, strong life, and think not of the grave, 

And turf-bound silence, in the frosty year. 

Today's poem is in the public domain.

Shadows of the Past (Book 1 of the Logan Point series) by Patricia Bradley

What happens when the victim profiler becomes the victim? In Shadows of the Past, psychology professor and criminal profiler, Taylor Martin, knows she’s being stalked. Yet she’s determined to push the thought away while she works to find her father, who left the family years ago.

Mystery writer, Nick Sinclair searches for his brother, Scott, a teen on a self-destructive binge. When Taylor and Nick cross paths they are drawn to each other. But, the past pushes them apart.

From the first chapter of this romantic suspense to the last, Patricia Bradley’s engaging voice and fast-paced story grabbed my attention and kept me reading. She took her characters through intrigue, romance, danger, and a revelation of self-awareness. I grew to respect Taylor as a professional and a woman who handled herself in the eyes of danger. Nick’s gentle, caring personality balanced Taylor’s need to be independent. I love the way the author wove together Taylor’s impossible situation with the mystery of her father’s disappearance and Scott’s self-destruction. With a perfect blend of dialog, description and tension, Ms. Bradley’s story pulled me in and didn’t let go until the very end.

The secondary characters played an engaging role to the story. With each one, I gained a better understanding of what made Taylor’s and Nick’s personalities tick. The author included the home where Taylor grew up as a part of the story. This intrigued me and made me appreciate the history that went into creating Taylor’s persona.

I recommend this book, especially if you’re a fan of Terri Blackstock or Dee Henderson. Five stars.

Book 2 in the Logan Point series comes out in the fall 2014.

To find out more about Patricia Bradley, go to: http://ptbradley.com/

Church Building Repurposed

I love church buildings. And ironically, I attend church in a high school. This one inspired the idea for the cafe/bookstore in Peace, Love, and Mashed Potatoes. Turtle Creek Cafe and The Book Nook are housed in a repurposed church.

Remember

When someone asks me about people I admire or respect or even consider a hero, a few come to mind. I tend to admire people who have faith in what they believe. Especially folks who trust God for their strength and guidance. 

Today as I think about people who made a difference, I remember Harriet Tubman, who took numerous chances on her life to rescue her fellow men and women from slavery. Continuing in that vein, Martin Luther King, Jr. spent his short life working to make life better for others. As we remember this man and the efforts he put forth, I want to share a few of his quotes:

• “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”
• “Forgiveness is not an occasional act. It is a permanent attitude.”
• “I have decided to stick with love. Hate is too great a burden to bear.”
• “Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.”
• “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’”

Pure Delight

Dear Mr. Knightly by Katherine Reay

It’s hard to believe this is Katherine Reay’s debut novel. Written as if she’s penned stories for a lifetime, Dear Mr. Knightley delights as it reveals a young woman’s journey into adulthood.

Through letters to her benefactor, Samantha is required to detail her life as she works through a graduate program at Medill School of Journalism. Along the way, Sam meets an array of quirky and interesting characters. I wanted to visit with the Muirs, a kind, older couple and have lunch with handsome, charming Alex Powell. Along with the fascinating characters, the honesty that pours on the pages from Samantha’s life pulls the reader in.  Katherine writes with humor, reality, sadness and triumph. If you love Jane Austen, Elizabeth Bennet, or Jane Eyre, you’ll enjoy this delightful modern tale.

Anyone who enjoys a tale of growing up and finding love will lose themselves in Dear Mr. Knightley. You may even wish you had a Mr. Knightley of your own.

Wait in Hope

Hot Tea Month

January is hot tea month. I found a new tea that I enjoy. I'm usually one who sticks with black tea, such as English Breakfast, Earl Grey and good old Lipton. But I read that green tea is good for me. I had tasted green tea before and didn't like it. I'm trying to take better care of myself so I thought I'd give it another chance. Thanks to the many varieties at my local Kroger, I came across green tea infused with honey. Yum. This is a great afternoon treat with biscotti.

What's your favorite hot tea?

The Peace of Winter

I've always loved January. In Ohio, the first month of the year is usually cold and sometimes we are blessed with snow. Ideally, I like to stay home and write or spend the day reading, snuggled under a warm blanket, with a cup of tea. But like most folks, I go to work each day.

Nevertheless, I find ways to relish the beauty of winter. I appreciate the frozen scenery as I trek to work after a winter snow. I nestle in my living room after supper and share the time at home with my husband and dogs. And I write. I don't spend as much time outside, so that gives me more time
to rattle the keyboard and bring my ideas to life.

This January is no different. I'm working on my new work-in-progress, Faith, Hope and Hot Chocolate. I've returned to Turtle Creek to see what God has in store for Lily June and Finn.

I hope you stay warm and enjoy the peace of winter.