Travel and Exploring – Sherida Stewart

SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER-Yellowstone National Park backpacking, hiking & wildlife (lunch with WOLVES), plus book recommendations and HUCKLEBERRY treats!

For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands.

~~Isaiah 55:12 (KJV)

My husband and I spent a month in Yellowstone National Park this summer. What an experience in God’s glorious creation! We hiked many trails, spent three nights in the backcountry, and viewed various wildlife. But we never expected to have lunch with Yellowstone wolves!

Our wolf encounter: Heading to the trail early for a day of hiking, we climbed a hill to see Grand Prismatic Spring, then on to Fairy Falls and Imperial Geyser.

Continuing on down the forested trail, we came to an open meadow. Is that a wolf?

We stopped. The wolf watched us. Then we saw two others moving along the hillside. Knowing the wolves were aware of us, we waited quietly to see what they would do. After a few moments, they trotted up the hillside away from us. Whew!

We went a bit further down the trail and stopped for lunch. While we were eating, we were surprised to see two wolves…young ones….approach…maybe 20 yards away. They seemed curious. We watched for several minutes as they “played” with a white plastic bag and sniffed around the area. Finally they ambled off across the meadow with occasional glances back at us, then out of our sight, though we did hear howling from the hills. What an interesting experience! (After they left, my husband picked up the bag so animals would not be harmed by eating it.)

This wolf encounter was one of the highlights of our trip. I’ll post the video of the playful wolf on my Facebook page and Instagram reel.

MORE BACKCOUNTRY EXPERIENCES

One of our three backpacking overnights was to Mallard Lake. We actually saw and heard Mallard ducks near our campsite.

My backpack was filled with all the essentials to spend the night in the wild when the temperatures got down to 35° overnight. Our food bags are hung from a pole, my Buff (neckgaitor/bandana) has a map of Yellowstone, and I carry a Swedish cloth from http://www.theadoptshoppe.com with a favorite Bible verse, Philippians 4:8. Yes, that is BEAR SPRAY, as recommended when hiking in Yellowstone. (We did see three bears, two from the car and one from a boat, thankfully not on the trail!)

NOW FOR BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS…….

FOR WRITERS AND ASPIRING AUTHORS:

MY REVIEW OF CREATING A WRITING LIFE by Jill Kemerer

Excellent advice with concrete ideas for living as a writer! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

In this book, Jill Kemerer offers strategies for writers covering many important topics, including analyzing your current process, determining writing financials, and cultivating the joy of being an author. She writes from experience and defines realistic expectations for aspiring authors. Valuable insights from her successful career give perspective to what is truly involved in savoring a writing life.

Having published one book myself, I found truth in her advice. Since I often need to write during snippets of time, I especially loved her idea of creating a portable office using a backpack containing essential items. Then you’ll be ready to grab your laptop and this bag as you head out the door, prepared to use any spare moments to keep putting words on the “page.”

If you desire a satisfying writing life, this informative book will encourage you along the right path to enjoy your author journey.

Favorite quote: “Give yourself credit for every step that brings you closer to your dreams.”

*I received an e-copy of this book with no requirement to write a positive review. I’m offering my honest opinion.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CHECK OUT THE AUTHOR’S WEBSITE: http://www.JillKemerer.com

AND FOR READERS OF REGENCY HISTORICAL ROMANCE:

MY REVIEW OF THE DUKE’S LAST WORD BY SOPHIE LEIGH FOX

A charming Regency romance! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I throughly enjoyed this historical romance story set in early 1880’s England. When James Barrow secures a marriage bargain by offering to save an old man’s estate in order to meet the conditions of his inheritance, the delightful and challenging courting of Wilhemina Middleton, a reluctant bride, begins. The characters are intriguing as they work through various issues of their unusual situation with the outcome always uncertain. The details of life during this era were interesting. To see both James and Willa grow from self-absorbed individuals to recognizing their love for each other was heartwarming. A great romance!

Favorite quote: To reveal such honesty without hesitation further spoke of his fine character.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CHECK OUT THE AUTHOR’S WEBSITE: http://www.SophieLeighFox.com If you enjoy tea as I do, you will appreciate Sophie’s tea suggestions. The next book in her series, Vying for a Groom, releases September 23, 2025.

NOW FOR TEATIME TREATS

When visiting Yellowstone, you will find an abundance of Huckleberry treats. I’m featuring the huckleberry scones I enjoyed with Earl Grey tea at the charming Lake Hotel dining room. The hotel is on the National Historic Register.

Scones and tea at the historic Lake Yellowstone Hotel

Or perhaps you’d prefer HUCKLEBERRY FUDGE ice cream!

WRITING NEWS

After a bit of a hiatus, I’m plotting and researching the second book in my Turquoise Treasures Romance series….title TBD. This story will feature Olivia and James. I’m a plotter, not a panster, and often filter ideas over morning coffee….even while backpacking in Yellowstone.

Daybreak morning coffee at our backcountry campsite.

Thank you for joining me for my teatime visit to Yellowstone. I’ll add a few more photos of our trip. I hope you are enjoying the start of the autumn season. May God’s glorious creation greet you everyday!

With prayers and blessings,

Sherida

PURCHASE HEALING HEARTS

AUGUST NEWSLETTER-THANKFUL FOR FAMILY, AFTERNOON #TEATIME, AND BOOKS TO RECOMMEND

O, give thanks unto the Lord; for He is good; for His mercy endureth for ever.

~~I Chronicles 16:34 (KJV)

The highlight of this summer was gathering with our family (three generations with six grandchildren) for fun activities and treasured special moments. All enjoyed swimming, visiting museums, hiking, adventure rides, Frisbee, panning for gold, playing games, and completing a puzzle together. Meals provided time to catchup with everyone. Jellybeans and s’mores fish crackers were the favorite snacks, plus the peach cobbler dump cake was a winning dessert. We all felt blessed to have this family time in the Colorado mountains.

AFTERNOON TEA IN THE GARDEN

My husband and I went to a heritage center where we had afternoon tea in the garden. The “insects and butterflies” theme was cute.

After selecting hats to wear, we were served butterfly cream cheese and cucumber sandwiches, ants on a log celery, worms in mud pudding, and ladybug cupcakes.

Of course I chose the hat trimmed with flowers and turquoise netting.

And here is my cowboy donning a western look. Yee-haw!

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS FOR ROMANTIC COMEDY, ROMANTIC SUSPENSE, HISTORICAL ROMANCE, AND ONE FOR WRITERS

Bernadette
Jennifer Lynn Cary
08/04/2025
Sweet Romantic Comedy
They’re supposedly the small-town girl and the movie star, but who are they really?

In a Killer’s Crosshairs
Rhonda Starnes
08/26/2025
Romantic Suspense
A murderer is on the loose…and nowhere is safe.

The Undercover Heiress of Brockton
Kelly J. Goshorn
08/01/2025
Historical Romance
A Socialite in Disguise Seeks Truth and Justice

And releasing September 3, 2025 for writers and aspiring authors, Creating a Writing Life by Jill Kemerer offers “encouragement and advice for authors and writers.”

Publishers Weekly bestselling author of nearly one million books worldwide, Jill Kemerer shares writing tips, business advice, and encouragement for authors in this inspirational book for writers. Check out her website: www.jillkemerer.com

TEATIME TREATS

For our August teatime celebration, I’m serving those ladybug cupcakes and a tea of your choice in a pretty flowered teacup. Enjoy a relaxing moment in the shade!

Thank you for joining me. I pray you have many special moments to treasure as summer winds down. May the joy of our Lord’s goodness bless you always. With prayers and blessings, Sherida

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JULY NEWSLETTER-SCULPTURES, BOOK RECOMMENDATION, & LAVENDER #TEATIME TREATS

An Independence Day display of historic flags of the United States of America.

And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

~~Philippians 4:7 (KJV)

With various situations this summer, some time spent in The Word helps to refresh our thoughts and hearts. We start our day with a devotion, read a passage from the Bible, then use our prayer list to cover the many concerns we bring to our Lord. God offers peace to fill our hearts and comfort our minds.

EXPLORING OUTDOOR SCULPTURES

This summer, a morning walk brought the joy of viewing outdoor sculptures. Here are three of our favorites. The first, titled SNAFU, is fittingly nicknamed “The French Fries.” The second one, Whispers and Silence, is carved from glistening marble from the Yule quarry, special to us because we lived a few miles from this historic Colorado quarry. The third, Educator, Teacher, Friend, depicting a teacher telling stories to children, is my favorite because of my background as a kindergarten and preschool teacher.

SUMMER READING SUGGESTION

I’ve just started this new release, If I Fall for You, by Myra Johnson, but already I’m engaged with this second book in the Montana Mercies Romance series.

ABOUT THE BOOK

THE BLURB: He’s barely holding his family together. She’s trying to rebuild hers from the ashes. When heartbreak threatens their tentative romance, will they fall apart—or fall into something more?

Dog trainer Luke Daniels feels he must take responsibility for running his emotionally detached father’s ranch and for the mental health of his sister who is recovering from a tragic accident.

Shannon Halsey is trying to be a responsible mother to her precious son, Tate. Her husband’s death before the child was born has caused her to have episodes of deep depression.

The two meet at an arts and craft fair after Shannon’s old car breaks down. As they find themselves brought together by circumstances, a friendship develops.

From the back cover copy: If I Fall for You is an emotionally rich Christian romance about second chances, hard-won forgiveness, and love that mends the deepest wounds.

click to purchase “if I fall for you”

I’ve enjoyed all the stories I’ve read by author Myra Johnson, so I can definitely recommend her books. To find out more, check her website: www.myrajohnson.com

TEATIME TREAT AT A LAVENDER FESTIVAL

During a summer visit to a lavender farm, we enjoyed refreshing lavender lemonade and delicious lavender brazelies, crisp Swiss cookies. Here is a recipe I found: https://www.marthastewart.com/1151850/bratseli

Thank you for stopping by for my book recommendation and a lavender teatime treat. During busy summer activities, it is a blessing to refresh with a good story and a special treat. I pray you are able to find some peaceful times to enjoy some summer refreshment and to spend some quiet moments with our Lord.

With blessings, Sherida

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click to purchase my romance, healing hearts

JUNE NEWSLETTER-HIKING, WILDFLOWERS, AND A BOOK REVIEW!

²²Bless the Lord, all his works in all places of his dominion: bless the Lord, O my soul.

~~Psalm 103:22 (KJV)

June has been filled with views of God’s glorious creation.

During the first month of summer, my husband and I enjoyed hiking in the mountains among spectacular fields of wildflowers. On a recent hike, yellow arrowleaf balsamroot blossoms surrounded the trail for over a mile! The beautiful views certainly remind us of His glory! During troubled times, we lift our eyes to the mountains and our souls are refreshed as we pause to appreciate our many blessings. We see God’s promises displayed by His glorious creation. We know He will provide for those who love Him.

BOOK REVIEW

A COZY MYSTERY, DYING TO SELL, BY ELLERY ADAMS AND TINA RADCLIFFE, launched last week as a top new release on Amazon.

Welcome back to Hope Street Church, where friendships are formed, fresh starts are encouraged, and mysteries are solved . . .

MY REVIEW

Fun cozy mystery! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

If you enjoy solving cozy mysteries, the Hope Street Church series is for you. I like these books because of the small town community charm and the admirable main characters who are good friends who solve local crimes.

In Dying to Sell, a real estate agent with questionable ethics has been murdered at the home of one of Grammy Lee’s friends. The Bible study group is anxious to solve this mystery to help the older ladies feel safe. There are so many possible suspects and motives, it’s hard to decide on the culprit. Though unsuccessful, I had fun trying to solve the crime.

In this story, the heartwarming granddaughter/grandmother relationship between main character Cooper Lee, owner of a vintage collectibles shop, and her grandmother, Grammy Lee, was developed more. The two showed their treasured appreciation for each other in funny and sweet ways.

Since I’m a romantic at heart, I especially loved the touching scene at the end of this story. During the series, Chef Jon Eason and Cooper have slowly realized their feelings for each other, so the last scene is a perfect conclusion to this intriguing book. If you like well-written cozy mysteries with threads of faith and touches of romance, you will enjoy Dying to Sell.

(As a bonus, we again get to savor treats from Magnolia’s Marvels. The deliciousness is served throughout the book, and there are some recipes in the back. Maple cinnamon scones and/or cranberry white chocolate cookies anyone?)

*I received a digital review copy from the publisher, Beyond the Page Publishing, through NetGalley with no requirement to write a positive review. This is my honest opinion.

For more information about Dying to Sell, check out Tina Radcliffe’s website. www.TinaRadcliffe.com

TEATIME TREATS

Since we’ve been out on the trails extensively this month, I haven’t baked the usual treats for our teatime. I’m serving a quick tea of cookies and Constant Comment, one of my favorites. HOWEVER, included at the back of the book are some recipes for the famous Magnolia’s Marvels goodies…..including Maple Cinnamon Scones which I will definitely be trying as soon as I get back to baking!

Thank you for stopping by my blog. I pray you feel our Lord’s comforting presence during the months ahead. What ways do you refresh your soul? Do you have a favorite Bible verse you keep in your heart for strength and comfort?

With blessings, Sherida

MAY NEWSLETTER….Trail Angels at Grand Canyon National Park and a library discovery, plus book recommendations.

For thou, LORD, hast made me glad through thy work: I will triumph in the works of thy hands, O LORD, how great are thy works!

~~Psalm 92:4-5 (KJV)

Recently, my husband and I were Trail Angels for one of our sons. He hiked into the Grand Canyon to the Colorado River and then to a backcountry camping site. We dropped him off at the South Kaibab Trail, then picked him up there the next day. We camped in the park and enjoyed exploring the South Rim area. God’s power is displayed so profoundly as you stand on the edge and gaze into the depths of the mighty Grand Canyon. How great are His works!

We stopped at many view points and toured the Watchtower in the Desert View area in the eastern part of the park. This tower, built in 1932, is a National Historic Landmark. It was designed by Mary Colter, who was the architect for many of Fred Harvey’s southwest establishments.

Our campsite was delightful with shade and some wildlife visitors.

A family of elk passed through the campground during the day.

A western bluebird!

From our camping spot, we walked to the Market Plaza for an #teatime treat of ice cream. (I forgot to take a photo!) Then we discovered the nearby Grand Canyon Community Library. I picked up a book on the sale table about the Wigwam Resort, an historic property near our Arizona home where we’ve enjoyed dining. A fun find!

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS

Award-winning author Robin Lee Hatcher has written many inspirational books. Recently I read To Marry an English Lord, part of The British Are Coming series. I loved the characters, so immediately read the prequel novella, To Enchant a Lady’s Heart.

MY REVIEWS OF TO ENCHANT A LADY’S HEART AND TO MARRY AN ENGLISH LORD

A charming historical novella of claiming true love! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

In the age of arranged marriages in England, Adam Faulkner, the illegitimate son of the Earl of Hooke, finds himself without the appropriate status to find a bride. His father is kind to him and does employ him as the stable manager of his estate where Adam finds a passion for raising horses. Adam’s love of horses is shared by a woman who holds his heart. But this woman is to be his brother’s intended once the final agreement is made.

Eliza Southwick is considered past the proper age for marriage. Her father, wealthy Lord George Southwick, expects her to wed the Earl of Hooke’s heir, Sebastian. But she longs to find the right man to marry for love, not obligation.

I was invested in these compelling characters. With the complication of their social status, their attraction to each other had some difficulties to overcome amid some twists and turns. The details of life and society in England during the 1890’s are interesting. Author Robin Lee Hatcher writes a feel-good story with sweet romance in a historical English setting. This novella, with its touches of faith, will enchant you. I imagine you’ll want to read the whole series as much as I do.

Favorite quote:

Her life might not be exactly as she wished it, but it would be exactly as God ordained.

Enchanting series with memorable characters! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I am captivated by the characters in this story and by the western setting of Eden’s Gate Ranch in Robin Lee Hatcher’s series, The British Are Coming. In 1895, English viscount Sebastian Whitcombe travels to an Idaho ranch owned by a college friend, seeking to settle his mind about his father’s demand that he marry well and produce an heir to carry on the Earl of Hooke lineage. On the ranch, he meets his friend’s sister, Jocelyn Overstreet, an independent woman who runs the family’s shipping empire in New York City. After a bit of a rocky start, an attraction develops between the two.

This couple grabbed my heart as they strive to live up to the expectations of their positions. Family and faith are important to them. I appreciated the struggles they faced as members of loving and responsible families. Author Robin Lee Hatcher delivers an enchanting romance.

After finishing this book, I immediately wanted to binge read the whole series, staring with the prequel novella, To Enchant a Lady’s Heart, featuring other members of the family. The next next installment of the family saga, To Capture a Mountain Man, is set in one of my favorite places, the wilderness of Yellowstone National Park, so I know it will be a fascinating adventure. As you can tell, I highly recommend this series by Robin Lee Hatcher, a gifted Christian author.

Favorite quote: “If you have asked God a question and diligently seek His answer, I promise He will speak to you. What I cannot promise is that the answer will come quickly. Sometimes we must wait and trust. Waiting can be difficult. But the answer will come.”

To learn more about the series and other books by this author, visit her webpage at: http://www.RobinLeeHatcher.com.

Thank you for stopping by my blog. Have you ever visited Grand Canyon National Park? Do you have a favorite place to view the wonders of what God has made? I pray your summer is filled with the awesome beauty of His amazing creation.

With prayers and blessings, Sherida

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APRIL NEWSLETTER-the Rocks of Canyonlands National Park

The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer, The God of my rock; in him I will trust.

~~2 Samuel 22:2-3 (KJV)

Our family planned a four-night backpacking adventure in the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park for spring break. With the possible lack of water in the area, my husband and I arrived early to stash three gallons of water. The trail to the caching site was challenging. As I hiked and climbed through the rocks and canyons of this amazing place, the Scripture above came to mind often.

Though I believe in stepping outside “my comfort zone,” I used discernment to decide carrying a heavy pack over difficult terrain was beyond my abilities. I became the Trail Angel for my family, ranging in age from eight-years-old to seventy-five, as they adventured into this exciting experience in a remote and beautiful area.

They had a fabulous time with overcoming some challenges. They are all experienced outdoor folks, who know good backcountry skills. With a winter storm coming in, the wise decision was made to cut the trip short. I was blessed to see their smiles of accomplishment as I met them at the trailhead, with thanks to God for their safe and successful trip!

NOW ON TO MY APRIL BOOK REVIEW

For those of you who appreciate Victorian historical romance, I recommend author Edwina Kiernan’s The Letter.

Delightful story with plenty of action, a sweet romance, and an inspiring faith thread!

Feeling restless in her parents’ town, Grace Stratton, a pastor’s daughter, accepts a job in the distant town of Lindenfell as a companion to Miss Withers. Questions arise when the wealthy lady’s nephew arrives to stay at the manor. Grace senses something odd about his situation, but he appears to be a caring and compassionate man.

I found this book to be a delightful read. The details of Victorian life were interesting. The mystery surrounding the nephew was intriguing. And the obstacles to the developing romance between the young couple provided fascinating challenges along with some surprising twists.

If you enjoy Victorian romance with rich details and fascinating characters, you’ll want to put this book on your reading list.

Favorite quotes:

God can cleanse, heal, and forgive even the most bitter, broken, and stained soul.

He knew that the Lord’s peace remained within him and could not be removed.

For more information about the author and this book, visit: https://www.EdwinaKiernan.com

TEATIME TREATS ON THE TRIP

The motel where I stayed had a lovely selection of tea and a great coffee bar featuring a Pin-Up Girl mocha flavored with white chocolate, maraschino syrup, and whipped cream.

Here is the selection of foods we packed for our trip. With four homemade backpacking dinner entrees (with M&Ms for dessert) and our trail food for breakfasts and snacks, we wouldn’t starve.

Thank you for joining me on my #teatime adventure to Canyonlands National Park and my book recommendation. What springtime adventure do you look forward to experiencing? May you enjoy His creation to the fullest and remember the Lord is our Rock….forever!

With blessings and prayers,

Sherida

Spring Adventures: Hiking, Books, and Blessings! #Teatime March newsletter

It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.
Lamentations 3:22-23 (KJV)

What does spring look like in your area? Are you ready to welcome new beginnings as the temperatures warm? Here in Arizona, we’re celebrating with new hiking excursions and fresh-from-the-tree red grapefruits from our yard. Every spring day reveals new blossoms for next year’s crop….a reminder of God’s renewed blessings and grace every morning, as His Word promises. The Lord, with His faithfulness and love, is our hope for the future….each day!

MARCH TRAVEL-HIKING TO THE MEXICAN BORDER

With the perfect temperatures of springtime in Arizona, we set off on a new adventure, traveling south to hike a portion of the Arizona Trail to the border of Mexico and to visit Bisbee, Arizona, an early mining town. We stayed at the historic Copper Queen Hotel and toured the Mining and Historical Museum where I loved seeing the Bisbee Blue turquoise found in the area.

This view from Montezuma Pass of the valley where the Coronado Expedition traveled in the 1540s. We started our hike down to Mexico from here.

Here I stand along the border, next to The Wall and the monument marking the southern terminus of the Arizona Trail.

This concrete monument marks the boundary with a view of Mexico beyond.

The historic Copper Queen Hotel in Bisbee Arizona, built in 1902 and listed on the National Historic Register of Historic Places. www.copperqueen.com

Turquoise on display in the Bisbee Mining and Historical Museum. The turquoise stones found in the area are named Bisbee Blue because of their striking color. www.bisbeemuseum.org

TEATIME TREATS

To start our hiking day, we tried a new coffee/tea shop and selected a toasted coconut scone for breakfast. I don’t have a recipe to share this month, but hope you’ll enjoy this virtual treat from Sweetly Created.

MARCH BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS

As a March book suggestion, I recommend Love’s Promise-Wyoming Sunrise Book 4 by Penny Zeller, a new-to-me author.

MY REVIEW

An engaging Wyoming historical romance! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I enjoyed the development of the sweet romance between rancher Silas McFadden and a new arrival in Poplar Springs, Amaya Alvarado, who is helping her grandmother run a mercantile shop while her grandfather recovers from an illness. Silas has regrettable events in his past which threaten his future with Amaya. She is grieving the loss of her fiancé and doesn’t want to have another relationship. Can love find a way to bring these two together?

Great historical details enliven the story between outlaw activities and life in the early frontier. I especially liked the heartfelt salvation scene Silas enables and the charming solution for the precious orphans toward the end of the book, plus the strong themes of forgiveness and relying on faith.

If you like historical romance with plenty of action, great characters, and heartwarming small community support, I definitely recommend Love’s Promise by Penny Zeller. And there is a recipe for carrot cake. 🙂

Favorite quote:

The desire in his heart to be a father like his Heavenly Father gripped him with an unrelenting hold. “It’s just like how God loves us even when we make mistakes.”

For more information about the book and the author, please check out her website: http://www.PennyZeller.com

Penny and I both have recipes in the historical authors’ For the Love of Recipes cookbook I mentioned last month. If you’re a subscriber and would like a copy, please request one in the comments, and I’ll email you the PDF file.

APRIL RELEASE SUGGESTIONS FOR CHRISTIAN FICTION

Rom-Com: Some Like It Scot by Pepper Basham releases April 8, 2025. Click to preorder: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D8VP99G9. Visit her website: www.pepperdbasham.com. Via @thomasnelsonfiction @netgalley

Inspirational Romance: A Blessing in Disguise by debut Love Inspired author Ciara Knight release April 1, 2025. Click to preorder: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D9D961Q8. Visit her website: www.CiaraKnight.com

Thank you for joining me for a celebration of spring with hiking, travel, treats, and books. What NEW plans do you have for spring? What books are on your to-be-read pile for spring? I pray you feel His renewing grace at the beginning of each day!

With prayers and blessings,

Sherida

Author of Healing Hearts: A Turquoise Treasures Romance (Click to purchase Kindle copy from Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DHJG6HZC )

A #teatime celebration of stepping outside those comfort zones…and some book recommendations!

But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

~~Isaiah 40:31 (KJV)

MY BOOK IS ABOUT TO BE PUBLISHED!

My book, Healing Hearts: A Turquoise Treasures Romance, is now available for preorder, releasing October 8, 2024. For me, publishing this novel was a tremendous leap of faith…definitely outside my comfort zone. I truly did put my trust in our Lord to make this happen. (He chose the title.) To complete this writing journey, there were many who helped and encouraged me along the way, as I mention in the acknowledgment section of the book.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Two wounded hearts.

His shattered with grief, hers burdened with guilt.

Will these hurting hearts be healed by love and faith?

Hope Somerville arrives in Raton, New Mexico Territory, to begin her new job as a Harvey Girl and to search for her missing younger brother. Nathan Phillips must stop an elusive outlaw gang plaguing the railway before someone gets hurt. When Hope and Nathan collide while rescuing a toddler from stampeding horses, sparks fly…both in anger and attraction. Will these two opposites find a path to their happily ever after?

A frontier Beauty and the Beast tale set in New Mexico Territory.

HEALING HEARTS: A TURQUOISE TREASURES ROMANCE

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A YELLOWSTONE BACKPACKING ADVENTURE OUTSIDE MY COMFORT ZONE

This photo shows my husband and me at the end of our epic six-day backpacking trip around Shoshone Lake in Yellowstone National Park, smiling and grateful to have made the 35-mile trip successfully and safely!

As I hinted in my August post, we backpacked around a favorite place in Yellowstone, Shoshone Lake near Old Faithful. I was a bit concerned because this was my longest trip…both in miles and days out…and I knew there would be water crossings. (Not my favorite hiking situations.) As a Continental Divide Trail section hiker, my husband has much more experience, so I trusted him to keep us on the right path.
The challenges, besides the water crossings, were some long uphill climbs and the steep downhill sections. Because of the posted warnings, this was the first time we’ve carried bear spray. Fortunately no bear sightings, but we do know to make lots of noise when in grizzly bear country. Highlights were seeing a bald eagle fly right overhead, visiting a backcountry geyser basin when we didn’t see anyone all day, and the early morning mist on the lake. We had an amazing adventure in God’s glorious creation.

A FEW PHOTOS

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BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS

Though I didn’t have much time for reading during the vacation, I did enjoy Myra Johnson’s One Glance of Your Eyes.

A touching story of finding love…at just the right time! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Featuring two people with broken dreams and painful pasts, this book brings out a depth of emotions as tiny steps are taken toward forgiveness….and love.

I felt for Carl Anderson’s childhood situation. He’d tried to be a good older brother in a dysfunctional home, but is haunted by what happened. Now he’s a counselor in a transitional home for men and wants to add a dog therapy program. When Rae Caldwell becomes Carl’s new supervisor, she is reluctant to support Carl’s new idea. They must find a way to work together despite raw emotions from past difficulties.

I really felt empathy for the couple because of the traumas they’d each experienced and for Rae while she struggles to find her way back to God. As they stumbled to fix their own issues, I admired their desires to help each other. Plus I love the supportive community of Missoula, Montana, including folks from earlier books, as everyone watches out for their friends. The pups are fun, especially loyal, blue-eyed Frankie. And what a great ending!

I always enjoy author Myra Johnson’s faith-filled stories with deeply touching characters. I highly recommend One Glance of Your Eyes. For more details, check out the author’s website: http://www.MyraJohnson.com.

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And I’ve just started…and already loving…Ruth Logan Herne’s newest release, Kindling Christmas in Wishing Bridge…a return to this warm, small-town community of the earlier books…and it’s Christmastime! For more information, check out the author’s website: http://www.RuthLoganHerne.com.

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And I want to mention a couple of October releases I’m anticipating!

October 1, 2024 What’s the Story, Morning Glory? : A Memoir Devotional with a “Novel” Approach to Practical Christianity by Julie Lessman. The author has an unusual way to deliver a inspiring lessons from the Bible. 1. The Real Story about how she learned spiritual lessons—2. A Novel Story with a scene from one of her books. —3. The Scripture Story listing applicable verses from the Bible. —4. The Takeaway Story pointing out the lessons learned, and —5. The Prayer Story offering a specific prayer. Sounds intriguing, doesn’t it? For more information, check out the author’s website: http://www.JulieLessman.com.

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October 22, 2024 The Cowboy’S Forgotten Love by Tina Radcliffe.
He finally found the love of his life…Now if only he could remember.
After an accident, rodeo rider Luke Morgan is shocked to discover his memories of the last six months are gone. He remembers his best friend, Harper Reilly, but recent events are a blur….With big career decisions to make, Harper fears they’ve missed their chance. Is it too late to fall in love all over again? For more information, check out the author’s website: www.TinaRadcliffe.com.

AND WE WON’T FORGET #TEATIME TREATS!

After spending the time in Yellowstone, we became huckleberry fanatics. Huckleberry flavor is everywhere! Tea, lemonade, muffins, sauce on blintzes, pancakes, yogurt, and our favorite…Huckleberry Ice Cream. So please help yourself to a double-dip of huckleberry ice cream. Mmmm!

Thank you for joining me for #Teatime, my book announcement, and reviews of favorite authors’ newest releases. Please tell me about times you have stepped outside your comfort zone and found a great adventure.

With prayers and blessings, Sherida

*To leave a comment, click below on the date of this post, then scroll down to find the reply form. Comments are appreciated and will appear after moderation.

You’re invited to my #teatime review of A DARE AND A PRAYER by Julie Lessman….plus photos of a recent hiking adventure and an easy summer camping dessert recipe!

Defend the poor and fatherless: do justice to the afflicted and needy. Deliver the poor and needy: rid them out of the hand of the wicked.

~~Psalm 82:3-4 (KJV)

MY REVIEW OF A DARE AND A PRAYER

A thrilling WWII romance! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Author Julie Lessman always brings faith and passion to her novels. Her newest book is no exception. A Dare and a Prayer provides insights into the wartime period….the strength, the bravery and the tragedy.

A Dare and a Prayer continues the fascinating saga of the O’Connor family. Lieutenant Henry Dennehy has a bad-boy reputation. He lives on the wild side as a skilled fighter pilot assigned to night raids over the Pacific. Though he deeply loves his family, he rejects the faith of his heritage. He is attracted to cautious Amy MacArthur, a religious woman serving her country as a lieutenant in the Airforce Nurse Corp stationed in the Pacific Theater. How can these two opposite souls work toward a lasting relationship? Their interesting path to the sweet ending involves a crisis to save three abused orphans, the emotions of the final days of the war, and oceans of forgiveness. A completely engrossing story!

Since I’m an advocate for the protection and development of children, I applaud author Julie Lessman for touching on the tragic subject of child trafficking, an issue explored in the recent movie The Sound of Freedom. With her research into the topic, she writes emotionally about this travesty which did occur during the war.

If you’re interested in World War II history….and romance….I definitely recommend A Dare and a Prayer by Julie Lessman.

Favorite quote: “But when God’s in the middle (of a relationship), embraced equally by two people of faith, He is the Anchor for their souls……holding them secure and able to weather any storm…and all because of their deep faith.”

On a personal note……

Since my parents were a young engaged couple during this time period, I especially enjoyed the details. Though I know many of their stories, this novel brought up more questions I wish I’d asked of my parents about the emotions and reactions they experienced.

My father was a forward observer in the US Army, a Purple Heart recipient and a POW. My mother was his fiancée waiting on the home front, a strong woman and a patriotic supporter of our country. Together they overcame the challenges of my father’s wartime leg amputation and celebrated over sixty years of marriage until my mom lost her battle with leukemia.

I’m grateful for the authors who bring these periods of history to life for their readers so we can remember the sacrifices made by the men and women who lived through those difficult times.

IMPORTANT READER MESSAGE FROM JULIE LESSMAN

I admire author Julie Lessman’s faith-filled, servant’s heart. Read what she writes in her Reader Letter at the end of the book: “As a side note, I named the child-trafficking organization that Amy and Henry plan to volunteer at after an organization that I support myself—Project Eden. Project Eden is a Christian after-care home in the Philippines that provides long-term aftercare for girls aged 5-18 who have been rescued out of trafficking…..Partial proceeds from this book will be donated to Project Eden.”

ABOUT ROMANCE AUTHOR JULIE LESSMAN

Julie Lessman is an award-winning author whose tagline of “Passion With a Purpose” underscores her intense passion for both God and romance. A lover of all things Irish, she enjoys writing close-knit Irish family sagas that evolve into 3-D love stories: the hero, the heroine, and the God that brings them together. To learn more about Julie Lessman, her books and to sign up for her newsletter, visit her website: www.julielessman.com.

TRAVEL AND HIKING ADVENTURES

Stopping to smell the WILDFLOWERS!

My husband and I returned to New Mexico to hike more of the Continental Divide Trail. This time we hiked into the beautiful San Pedro Wilderness area in Santa Fe National Forest.

The trail, the wildflowers and the views were amazing.

We stopped for lunch by San Gregorio Lake. “Be still, and know that I am God.” This Scripture came to my heart as we felt the peace of His glorious creation in this place.

During stressful times, meditating on Philippians 4:8, as this water bottle sticker from https://theadoptshoppe.com reminds us, helps focus on the positive. (I love the shop’s faith-filled stickers!)

On our way home, we stopped for brunch at one of my favorite places…La Posada in Winslow, Arizona, a former Fred Harvey Hotel. The Turquoise Room serves a fabulous Southwest avocado toast topped with pickled red onions and pepitas…a perfect flavor combination. We enjoyed the view of the passing trains on the BNSF mainline from the tableside window.

And doesn’t the Turquoise Room coffee blend go perfectly with my short story? 😉http://www.Amazon.com/dp/B0BYXT5PP3

TREATS

Lime Cheesecake-easy and fuss-free for a camping or backpacking dessert

At home prep—mix well in a gallon-sized freezer bag:

1 box of cheesecake-flavored instant pudding (3.4 oz, Jell-O brand)

1 cup powdered whole milk (Judee’s from Amazon)

1/2 cup cream cheese powder (Judee’s from Amazon)

4 teaspoons lime juice powder (King Arthur Flour)

At camp, add 12 oz cold water to the bag and mix well. Divide into 4 cups and top each serving with a few Goldfish Grahams or Teddy Grahams and serve. Refreshing and sweet finish to a camping or backpacking adventure day!

THANK YOU FOR JOINING ME FOR A #TEATIME BOOK REVIEW!

What are your activity plans for enjoying the remaining summer days? Do you have book recommendations for a refreshing summer story?

With blessings and prayers,

Sherida

*To leave a comment, click below on the date of this post, then scroll down to find the reply form. Comments are appreciated and will appear after moderation.

You’re invited to my #teatime review of Cole and Laila are Just Friends, plus travel hiking photos from the trails! (Don’t miss the treat selection of speciality cakes.)

Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths. ~~Proverbs 3:5-6 (KJV)

Was June as fast a whirlwind for you as it was for me? It was a surprise to realize the first month of summer is winding down. Since we were blessed during the month with amazing family celebrations, I’m savoring the special get-togethers and memories we made…birthdays of loved ones, school graduations and promotions of our grandchildren, the Father’s Day blessings of my husband and our two sons (and their wives) as amazing parents, and the thankfulness of being married to my best friend for fifty-three years. A good life, indeed.

MY REVIEW OF COLE AND LAILA ARE JUST FRIENDS BY BETHANY TURNER

What a fun “fake-date” romp through New York City! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I loved this entertaining romance! The situation: Cole Kimball and Laila Olivet have been small town friends forever. The change: Cole is driven to leave his hometown for the big city. The perfect scene: Experiencing a fake-date through the streets and pop-culture icons of New York City. The perfect line: “Hey there. Did somebody call for a Lyft?” (This line, at exactly the right time, made me smile with delight.)

Cole and Laila are good people, treating each other and everyone they know with compassion. The fascinating relationship between Cole and Laila, held my interest as they reevaluated their connection. Even though I wasn’t sure how their experiment would end, I admired the trust, selflessness and love they gave each other. What would be best for each of them? Great ending, great humor, great small town vibes and great examples of friendship.

I’ve read many of Bethany Turner’s books and enjoyed them all. If you’re a rom-com devotee or like friends-to-more themes, I highly recommend this story! (Chocolate-chip pancakes, anyone?)

Favorite quotes:

“I think, in a way, I’m sort of hoping you realize it doesn’t matter where we are, as long as we’re together.”

“And if there is a hierarchy, how dare anyone minimize friendship? Isn’t friendship everything?”

“Well, I guess my grandmother was my first teacher. And she taught me that food is love….She used to tell me that when you didn’t know what else to do for someone, you should feed them….And sometimes you just needed to feed them so they knew they weren’t alone.”

*I was provided a copy of this book by NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction. I was not required to write a positive review.

For more information about award-winning author Bethany Turner, check out her website at: http://www.SeeBethanyWrite.com.

TEATIME TREATS

For your selection, I’m providing virtual goodies from a favorite bakery. Just look at these decorated cakes! Any choice you make would be delicious, I’m sure!

TRAIL TRAVELS

We spend a bit of time a hiking trail far different from our local desert area. Seeing the different flora…and the cooler temperatures….was a refreshing experience. We loved the coastal views. Best of all was trekking with our family!

GIFT IDEAS…WHAT A FUN FIND!

An author I admire, Tina Radcliffe, recommended a small business which creates beautiful stickers with faith-filled messages. Kate, of The Adopt Shoppe, makes “little billboards for your heart” which were perfect gifts for my grandkids as they progressed to the next school level. Plus with our outdoor emphasis, these stickers work well for our hiking water bottles. Aren’t they lovely? Check out the website at: http://www.TheAdoptShoppe.com. (BTW: Kate’s customer service is great!)

Thank you for joining me for #teatime! What special blessings did you savor during June? May your summer be filled with faith-filled treasured blessings! Have a safe and fun Independence Day celebration!

With prayers and blessings,

Sherida