Buried Secrets: A Novel (Men of Valor) by Irene Hannon

Book Description:

After seven years as a Chicago homicide detective, Lisa Grant has hit a wall. Ready for a kinder, gentler life, she takes a job as a small-town police chief. But the discovery of a human skeleton by a construction crew at the edge of town taxes the resources of her department. A call for assistance brings detective Mac McGregor, an ex-Navy SEAL, to her doorstep. As they work to solve the mystery behind the unmarked grave, danger begins to shadow them. Someone doesn't want this dead person telling any tales--and will stop at nothing to make certain a life-shattering secret stays buried.

My Review:

Buried Secrets, the first book in the Men of Valor series, has a strong main character in Chief of Police Lisa Grant. I enjoyed her relationship with Detective Mac McGregor as much as the case the two join together to solve. Irene Hannon writes a seamless suspenseful story that kept me up reading way too late. The evilness of the perpetrator bleed through the pages. If you enjoy suspense and intelligent mysteries, you'll like Buried Secrets.

Disclosure:

I received a free copy of Buried Secrets from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group, in exchange for my honest review.

A Gem in the Woods

I found this beauty on my walk today. The star shaped white trout-lily popped up through the remnants of autumn. Take a peek at the mottled leaves.

Cement and Grace

1 Corinthians 3:10-11
By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as a wise builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should build with care. For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. 

Down the street from our condominium, construction workers have been digging in the dirt. They’ve scooped, smoothed, and moved the sod and soil with shovels and backhoes. A cement truck roared into action this week as the workers laid block. Like the home we live in, the new structure will have a solid base to stand on. I’ve seen houses that don’t have a firm foundation. They’re unsettled, crumble and fall.

Penny Frost McGinnis

Much like a house, life needs a firm foundation. I could’ve built my life on my love of books, my job, my family, money, or my fondness for nature. Instead I chose to stand on the foundation God gave in his Son, Jesus. He’s my rock. As long as I stand on him, I stand firm. I love Jesus and praise him for his sacrifice. Like the cement truck that pours concrete for the house to stand, God pours his grace under me. Praise God for his Son!

Is your foundation solid?

Who Guides Me?

National Puppy Day

I heard today is National Puppy Day. I'm not sure who made up the day, but I bet they love their dogs as much as we love ours.

When we got Tater as a puppy, he was a sweet furry bundle of joy. He laid in my lap when I was sick and followed us faithfully from room to room. He's been a blessing. He's about eight years old now, seventy-five pounds and still a joy.

Olive came to us as an adult. She's a rescue dog found with eight puppies. Poor thing had physical problems from her previous life. She's been a bit of challenge, yet a soothing little dog.

Do you have dogs who are part of your family?

Ash & Eish

www.facebook.com/ashandeish

I love living near a small town. The other day as I drove home, I noticed a new business had popped up. Ash & Eish Boutique, at 120 North Market Street in Batavia is a cute little shop filled with unique clothing and accessories for women and girls. The ladies who own the shop specialize in refreshing used clothing. Tucked in one corner hang patchwork items. In another, colorful accessories. Stop in and visit Ash & Eish. 





While you're out, a couple other new businesses sprouted over the winter. An antique shop on Kilgore Avenue and a shop on Main Street with prom dresses and artwork. I'm hoping this is the beginning of some great shops in Batavia.

They Offer Hope

Matthew 6:19-21

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” –Jesus

I’ve been reading the book One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp. A friend gave it to me with a sweet “I’m thankful for you” bookmark. Ann set a goal to write a list of one thousand things she’s thankful for so that she can live a life closer to Jesus. As I’ve followed her story, she shares through heartache, grief, joy and pain the simple things she’s grateful for. Here are a few I’d put on my list—daffodils waiting to bloom, bluebirds, celebrating a child’s birthday, my grandchild’s smile, peanut butter toast.

Should I tuck these in my heart? I think so. I strive for the simplicity of Ann’s journey, to appreciate the true treasures of life on earth. Along with the natural wonders and the beautiful moments, I want to store the words of Jesus and the blessings of God in my heart. So many times when I’ve been anxious or distressed, the Bible’s words have come to me and calmed me. They offer hope. Praise God for the true treasures of life.

Early Bloomers

I found these spring beauties at Sycamore Park. 

Wednesday Wisdom

Are You a Nature Nut?

Does anyone else see the cushion used to lean on and study?

I've decided to find at least one moment of beauty in every day. I'm convinced I'll find more. But I won't find any if I don't look. Tim and I took a walk in our neighborhood and I saw several things I consider beautiful. 

I've always been a bit of a nature nut. Dragging (not literally) my kids into the woods, through parks and fields and teaching them names of flowers and trees. So it's no surprise to me to find the lovely even in the unlovely at times. 

Love the bird nest.

I hope you enjoy a few of my nature shots.



Share the beautiful you found in today.

A Little Easter Flower

I posted a while back that I was up to my elbows in ruffles. 

Here's the finished project on my sweet little granddaughter. She'll be a beautiful little flower for Easter. I used the scraps to make a bow tie for her big brother. 

Have Courage and Be Kind

Any little girl who dreams of being a princess knows the story of Cinderella. A lovely young lady who lived a golden childhood is cast into the unexpected role of servant to some cold-hearted people. Fortunately for her, her mother presented her with a piece of wisdom that would carry her through life. "Have courage and be kind."

Some of my favorite princesses joined me at the theater to see the new Cinderella movie. All girls, 8-108 will fall in love with this magical story once again. The detail is amazing, the setting perfect, the costumes gorgeous, and the characters delightful. Lily James sweetness shined through Ella's misfortune. Cate Blanchett played the evil step-mother to a tee. Holliday Grainger and Sophia McShera's rendition of the step-sisters left me laughing out loud. And the prince, Richard Madden, was certainly charming. Disney did a fantastic job bringing this timeless tale to life.

After the movie, my daughter's were talking about there favorite Disney princesses. I had to admit I'd not really picked a favorite. I like Snow White, but I believe after seeing Cinderella defy the odds with courage and kindness, I've found a new favorite princess. I'll be buying this one.

Who is your favorite princess?

The Servant's Heart

Galatians 5:13

You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. 

Have you ever been involved in planning and implementing an event? At work, I’ve joined with a team to put together a retreat, author visit, or conference day. In my experience there are usually one or two people in the background who tie up loose ends, pick up pieces, make food, and make the execution of the event look seamless. If you’ve ever gone to a theater production you know someone created the backgrounds, sewed the costumes, and developed the marketing. At the end of a movie, a long list of folks who work in the background scrolls across the screen.

God loves the servant’s heart. In Galatians 5, people argued over the old laws. Paul said, “The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.” He encouraged the people to stop arguing and start serving. The Lord wants his followers to meet the needs of others with a humble heart, without drawing attention to themselves, while glorifying Jesus. What a great blessing to meet needs without limelight. Praise God for freedom and grace that give opportunity to serve.

Spring has Sprung

My daughter sends me a picture of the first crocus she finds, every spring.

 I look forward to it each year. Spring has sprung!

Maggie Wickline

A Good Day

Sixty-one degrees drew me outside. I walked a path through the woods that later wound around sidewalks in our community. The sun shined from a blue sky. Birds called to one another that spring weather had arrived. Children played, rode bikes, and skateboards. As I ambled along, a book by one of my favorite authors came to mind.

A Good Day by Kevin Henkes follows the trail of things lost and found. His vibrant illustrations embody a happy feeling, much like the sunny day gave me. This is a perfect book to read to a baby or toddler. The story is sweet and filled with hope for a good day.

Real Courage

Penny Frost McGinnis

Spring Beauty

Penny Frost McGinnis

I delight in discovering beauty. Since we moved into our new home in August I had no idea what plants might pop up in the landscape. We've lived several places and each spring I'd find lovely green sprouts pushing through the soil. This place is no exception. Yesterday, once all the snow melted away, the beginnings of grape hyacinths poked their little heads up. I am excited to see the full grown flower. Hopefully they'll stretch into themselves by Easter. 

What spring flowers do you have?

Tea for Two by Trish Perry

I’d love to have a tea shop like Millie’s to visit in my town. Mille’s Tea Shop is the place where friends meet, problems get solved and scones are eaten. Perry’s delightful follow up to The Perfect Blend put a smile on my face and warmth in my heart. I enjoyed rooting for the main characters, Zach and Tina. Tea for Two is a sweet faith-filled story, but not without conflict and resolution. I loved the setting and the interesting array of characters. Perry’s humor made me laugh while I reflected on what it means to trust God.

SPRING!

Need some encouragement...

Penny Frost McGinnis

Even the Moon Praises Him

Psalm 148:3-6
Praise him, sun and moon;
    praise him, all you shining stars.
Praise him, you highest heavens and you waters above the skies.

 Let them praise the name of the Lord,
    for at his command they were created,
and he established them forever and ever—
    he issued a decree that will never pass away.

A heavy blanket of snow covered the fields as we drove along the country road. The sky graduated to an inky black and the moon, as round as a bright golden ball, cast its light. No matter where we traveled, it seemed the moon followed us. The brightness made us look to the heavens and admire the work of God. He created the round orb to reflect light on the earth at night. One more way He cared for us.

The Psalm says God created all the heavenly bodies. The sun, moon, and stars each praise Him. If these objects can light the world and show God glory, what keeps us from praising Him daily. God made so much for us to enjoy. When I saw the low hanging moon I stood in awe. And the sun and the stars…they’re just as fascinating. As winter gives way to spring (it will come, I promise) look at God’s creation and rejoice with him. Praise the Lord for the beauty he gives each day.

Up to My Elbows in Ruffles

A few weeks ago I wrote about my daughter asking me to make my granddaughter an Easter dress. Today (a snowday) I pulled out the pattern, fabric, pins and scissors and set to work. The pattern challenged me. I won't say how many times I had to unsew  and resew some of the pieces in the bodice. But I loved stitching the pieces together, like a puzzle, and seeing how the fabrics complemented each other.

Gathering the ruffles took some patience. I've never seen so many ruffles on such a small dress. But they turned out beautiful. Now I just have buttons to sew on the back and bloomers to make.

I love being a grandma!

An Eerie Fog

Penny Frost McGinnis

Yesterday as I drove to my daughter's house, I encountered fog. With snow on the ground and warm temperatures, the clouds hung close to the ground. I was fascinated by the eerie evening. When I passed a small cemetery I couldn't help but stop and snap a photo. I loved the way the fog kissed the snowy ground and the splash of pink teased with the reminder that spring's around the corner.

Listen

Penny Frost McGinnis

A Crossing I Look Forward To

Penny Frost McGinnis

John 17:1-5
After Jesus said this, he looked toward heaven and prayed:
“Father, the hour has come. Glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you. For you granted him authority over all people that he might give eternal life to all those you have given him. Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent. I have brought you glory on earth by finishing the work you gave me to do. And now, Father, glorify me in your presence with the glory I had with you before the world began.”

For most of my life I feared bridges. Nevertheless, I’ve had to travel across them. Several years ago, my young daughters and I, with my brother and his family, traveled to Georgia to visit our other brother. To get to St. Simon’s Island, where he lived, we had to cross a causeway. Similar to a bridge, the concrete road rose above the water to a peak, then came back down and connected to the island. As I drove I felt like I might propel straight to heaven before we came down on the other side. Then there was a bridge in Maryland I rode on, over 4 miles long, that curved across the Chesapeake Bay. It was beautifully engineered but gave me butterflies. If that’s not enough, the old Maysville bridge that crossed the Ohio River filled me with great anxiety every time we traveled to the college my daughters and I attended (at different times.) Fortunately they’ve updated it and added a new one down the road. So when Tim and I walked across the Purple People Bridge in Cincinnati, I had a mini-celebration.

My fear of bridges has dissipated over the years although I still get a flutter sometimes when I cross over. But one bridge I’ll never fear is the one God has given me to get to heaven. Jesus is the bridge to eternal life. He’s the only way for imperfect people like me to be forgiven. Because of Jesus, I look forward to a home in heaven where I’ll be free to rejoice and praise God all day long. Because of Jesus I have the freedom from sin that gives me peace and hope. He bridges the gap between earth and heaven and that’s one crossing I look forward to. Praise God for Jesus!

Have you ever feared bridges?

Wednesday Wisdom

The Most Basic Element

I'm taking an online class to prepare me to help students with reference questions in the library where I work. Several years ago I helped people find information in the public library. Things have changed. An increase in online databases, e-books, and search engines has updated the face of gathering information. But, even as the techniques get more sophisticated, the most basic element of helping someone hasn't changed.

Our second online chat addressed---wait for it---being friendly so people will come back. That's one of the most important elements to good reference work.

I have to admit, I was a bit surprised to have an instructor teach me to be approachable, kind, and patient. Whether I needed it or not, it's a good reminder of how to treat people, no matter what I'm doing. 

When have you encountered an especially helpful person in public service?

He Spreads the Snow Like Wool

Psalm 147:15-18
He sends his command to the earth;
    his word runs swiftly.
He spreads the snow like wool
    and scatters the frost like ashes.
He hurls down his hail like pebbles.
    Who can withstand his icy blast?
He sends his word and melts them;
    he stirs up his breezes, and the waters flow.

Southwest Ohio has been covered in snow and ice this week, like much of the country. We’ve not had the amount Boston had, but the fluffy stuff closed businesses, schools and made life more difficult for anyone who needed to be out and about. The weather caused power outages, accidents, stress, and frustration. But once the ice and snow melt away, people will travel, kids will go back to school and stress will ease.

Much like life, something happens that causes stress, a negative change, or difficulties beyond our control. The Psalm assures us that even though God sends the snow and ice, he also breaths the warm breezes to make the waters flow. When you think you can’t take anymore winter weather, spring arrives and warms the air. My hope is in God and his caring hands. No matter what I experience, I know he’s with me and brighter days are ahead. I love winter, but by the time spring rolls around, I’ll love that too. Praise God for hope. 

What's your favorite season?

Are You a Hobbit?

I don't know about you, but being snowed in for several days in a row brings out the hermit in me. Or maybe the hobbit. Staying in and enjoying my home brings satisfaction to my soul. Whether I'm writing, reading or fixing dinner there's something about knowing I
can't leave that makes me want to hunker down and enjoy the peaceful solitude of where I dwell.

How about you? Are you more like a hobbit, content to stay home or do you get cabin fever?

Wednesday Wisdom

Snow day!

I love snow days! We finally got two here in Southwest Ohio. Why do I like them? To me they're like free days. Unplanned, I can do what I want days. I don't have to be at work. I don't go to appointments. So what do I do?

Yesterday I unpacked photographs and hung them in the hallway, as well as a beautiful picture of Eli and Ella Cate I got for Christmas. Now my hallway, filled with family, brings me joy. Some of the photos landed in our second bedroom, and a set of Tim and I at the ocean found a prominent place in our bedroom. 

Today, I dusted, am doing  laundry, and plan to write. Sounds boring, but to me-- it's delightful. Added bonus--Tim is home today, too.

What do you do on a snow day? Or a free day?

This Old Dog...

My daughter, Sara, called the other day. She wanted to know how much I loved my granddaughter, Ella Cate. Silly question. I love all my grandkids bunches and bunches.

The outfit I made for Ella Cate to go from the hospital in.

Sara couldn't find an Easter dress she liked for her sweet little girl. Could I make one? Sure. I'd give it a whirl. I'd made prom dresses, a wedding dress, lots of baby and toddler clothes for the girls, and quilts. I assumed (one should never do that) we'd go to the fabric store and purchase a pattern. Nope. It's not what young moms do anymore. Instead, she went on Etsy and purchased a downloadable pattern.

What? I have to download the pattern and print it. Not to mention make sure the 1" square is exactly 1", because that's how you know the sizing is accurate, follow the forty-nine pages of directions to tape the pattern together, cut out the fabric and sew it, and figure out how to improvise the parts that require a serger. (I don't have one, and I think I'd like a hem better, anyway.)

The pattern's printed. I've read the directions. As soon as we have a chance, Sara and I will take Ella Cate to pick out fabric. Can't wait.

Am I challenged? Yes. Will I do it? Yes. This old dog can still learn a new trick or two.

I'll post a pic when the project is finished.

Have you learned something new recently? What was it?

True Love

1 Corinthians 13:4-8
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.

February the month of Love

Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.

Tim and I married on October 31, 1992. Over twenty-two year ago, we combined our families— my three daughters and his son and daughter, ages ranged eight to fifteen. One year from March to July, all five were teenagers. With lots of love for each other and for each child, we rejoiced with them, high school and college graduations, weddings, and babies, plus all the daily joys. We protected them the best we could and comforted them in heartbreak and injury. We trusted them to make good decisions and hoped for the best. Our love persevered. Now with eight grandchildren in the mix, we experience more love than we imagined.

God feels the same way about his children. When we choose truth, he rejoices. Through his Spirit he protects us and in free will he trusts us to make the best choices. The hope he gave us outweighs all hope. Through Jesus we look forward to eternal life. God’s love perseveres. His love never, ever fails. On Valentine’s Day we send messages to the people we love. Buy flowers and chocolate. This day I want to send a prayer of thanks to the Father who loves me. Praise God for true love.

Wednesday Wisdom

Writer off the Leash: Growing in the Writing Craft

Of all the writing books I've read, and I've read a lot, this is the best one. I wish I’d had it when I first started writing fiction. Michelle's sense of humor makes the book fun to read. Her great explanations and advice make the book a keeper. I’ll refer to it over and over again. She doesn’t just give the nuts and bolts of writing fiction, she gets to the heart of why a writer writes and has the reader ask themselves questions that reveal whether they have a heart for writing. If you have any interest in or already write fiction, buy this book. Seriously, buy this book.

When Love Disintegrates

1 Corinthians 13:4-8
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.

February, the month of love.

Love does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.

As people milled around the exhibits at the zoo, a couple of peacocks strutted about. They dragged their multi-colored tails behind them, then stopped to impress the crowd. The tail feathers fanned out into a beautiful array of iridescent blue and green. You could say… they were proud as a peacock. Male peacocks show off their tails to win a peahen’s heart. God created the birds to show their feathers.

Can you imagine people strutting around with prideful, feathered tails? When people throw pride, envy, and selfishness into a relationship the bonds of trust are broken, abuse happens, and love disintegrates. Paul tells us in Corinthians to turn from selfishness. Instead of envy, appreciate. Instead of boasting, encourage. Instead of luxuriating in pride, be humble. Show honor, be selfless, let go of anger, and throw grudges aside. Follow Jesus example of love and put others first. He gave his life. Praise God for his love.

Patient and Kind

1 Corinthians 13: 4-8
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.

February, the month of love. I’ll admit I enjoy a good Hallmark movie that spirals around romance. I like contemporary romance books and am trying my hand at writing them. One of my favorite genres is a good cozy mystery with, yes—a dash of romance. Hmmm…love and mystery. Love is a mystery or is love a mystery? God paints a pretty clear picture in 1 Corinthians that covers not only romance, but all types of love. And that’s where I’m going to dwell for the month of February.

Love is patient, love is kind.

Today, I had the opportunity to take care of my seven-month old granddaughter all day. What a joy! She’s a sweet little one who’s easy to love. But I was reminded of the amount of patience a baby requires. She’s learning to eat baby food and as one spoon full goes in, half of it comes back out because she’s still developing her skills. So I’d feed her some pears then scoop them off her little chin and try again. Eventually we finished the task, and she laid her head on my shoulder and napped. That’s love.

While I took care of Ella Cate, my husband went to watch two grandsons play basketball. While five year old Max had his first game, his big brother, Aiden, stood in the end zone cheering him on. Aiden could have been playing with his friend, instead he encouraged his brother. That’s kindness.

Days are filled with opportunities to show patience and kindness. Waiting in traffic, a turn in the bathroom (once upon a time we shared one bathroom with three daughters), a spouse to get ready, a child to put on their shoes, a coworker to complete a project and on and on. Paul, the author of Corinthians, reminds us to pour out patience and kindness because they reflect love. Not just good advice, but an excellent way to live life. 

He'll Give You Rest

Matthew 11:28-30
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

Exhausted, fatigued, sapped, spent, drained—ever felt like that? Yes? Then you know what it’s like to be weary. Not just physically tired, where a good night’s sleep revives the energy in your body. But, weary. Exhausted right down to the soul. Your heart hurts, your heads aches, your spirit sags. Life’s been sucked out. This kind of life draining experience often occurs with stress, loss, when the same frustrating situation occurs over and over again or when hope is lost. You’re so spiritually beaten down, you want to crawl under the covers and hibernate like a bear. Or sleep the day away like my dogs. And sometimes physical rest is part of the process that refreshes a hurting soul. But there’s more.

Jesus offers to take the burden, carry the stress, and restore the spirit. Anytime I’ve taken my weariness, my burdens, my stress and anxieties to him, I find hope and peace. Not only do I give him my burdens, I take on his ways and pray his gentle spirit and humble heart will fill me. Spending time in prayer and reading the Bible relieve me of the weariness the world brings. Asking others to pray with me and for me gives me encouragement. For me being outside surrounded by God’s creation restores my soul. I’m thankful Jesus loves me enough to carry my burdens and give me rest. Praise God for his son!

Life is How You Spend Everyday

Wednesday Wisdom

Sisterhood of the World Bloggers Award

My new year started off with a pleasant surprise when Julie Arduini nominated me and other bloggers with the Sisterhood of the World Blogger Award.

Here are the rules:

1. Thank the blogger who nominated you.
2. Put the Award logo on your blog.
3. Answer 10 questions you’ve been sent.
4. Make up 10 new questions for your nominees to answer.

Here are the questions I was sent and my answers:

1. What’s the hardest lesson you’ve learned?

I believe it was letting go and letting God. For years I worried, fretted, and tried to control my life. When I realized that God was the one in control the worries melted away. There are still trials and troubles but now I pray first and trust in God’s wisdom.

2. What temptation is hard to resist?

Chocolate. I made a pan of chocolate walnut fudge for Christmas.  I’m pretty sure I ate most of it.

3. If you weren’t doing what you do weekdays, what would your life look like?

I work in an academic library as the technical services manager. When I retire I’d love to be a full time writer.

4. What book could you read over and over?                                              

For years I read Sue Hubbell’s A Country Year: Living the Questions every spring.  I’m thinking about reading it again this spring. I also love to read the Bible over and over.

5. What motivates you?

God motivates me. If I am doing something for Him, I don’t give up.

6. What are your pet peeves?

I don’t like it when cabinet doors or drawers are left open.

7. What are your goals for 2015?

I hope to complete the novel I started this month. It is a story set on an island in Lake Erie that features a young woman who needs to find peace. What she doesn’t expect is to find love.

8.  If you could travel anywhere, where would you go?

I’ve wanted to travel to Maine since I was in sixth grade. Last year my husband and I took a trip to Kelleys Island, Ohio. We fell in love with the island and the mainland around Marblehead. We plan to go back this year.

9. Would you rather stay in a five star hotel, a bed and breakfast, or a cabin?

A cabin would give us more privacy and autonomy. When I go on vacation I don’t want to be busy and trying to get from place to place. I want to relax and enjoy the journey. But then again, a bed and breakfast would be delightful.

10. What’s your favorite season? Why?

I love winter. The snow gives such a peaceful atmosphere. Winter is quiet and gives me a chance to reflect and regenerate. I love the way the snow sparkles and gives the earth a fresh, clean appearance.

Here are the questions for my nominees:

1. Do you have a favorite Bible verse you lean on? If so what is it?
2. What’s your favorite chapter book from childhood?
3. Do you enjoy cooking or would you rather eat out, order in, or nuke a microwave dinner?
4. Were you called to write or do you write as an offering to God?
5. What’s your favorite thing about blogging?
6. How long have you blogged and why did you start?
7. If you could have any pet, what would it be?
8. What’s your greatest accomplishment in the writing world?
9. What’s the best and worst about using social media?
10. Are you a country or city kind of girl?

I’m nominating Ane Mulligan, Sharon Srock, Nike Chillemi, and Kathleen Friesen! I enjoy your blogging!

The Librarians, Just for Fun

Is anyone else watching the TNT series, The Librarians?

The series spun off of the movies starring Noah Wyle, Bob Newhart and Jane Curtain. In the new series, four hand-picked, miss-matched people work together to defend the world against too much magic. Rebecca Romijn as Eve Baird is a love interest for Wyle, who appears occassionally. The rest of the time, she's protecting her underlings while they solve puzzles and chase monsters. John Larroquette holds down the fort, or the lab in this case, while the others roam about, drop through portals, and get into all kinds of trouble. Christian Booth, Lindy Cain and John Kim round out the ragamuffin group as an art history expert, math genius, and thief.

For me, the show is pure entertainment. I've heard a few people say they didn't like it because the librarians weren't doing library work. But I don't think that's the point. I don't know too many librarians who chase fairytale characters, dragons, or evil villains. Instead, the characters use resources, history, and a little magic to save the world.

If you want light entertainment for an hour before you start your workweek, sit back and watch The Librarians. Just for fun.

If you watch the show, what do you like about it?