Christian – Sherida Stewart

DECEMBER NEWSLETTER-THE LIGHT OF CHRISTMAS-Birthday cake, book review, and holiday scones

Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.

~~John 8:12 (KJV)

FAMILY TRADITIONS-BIRTHDAY CAKE FOR JESUS

As we prepare our celebrations of Jesus’ birth, I imagine we’re all planning the decorations, gifts, and foods for a joyous holiday. Our family has many Christmas traditions which I treasure. A special cake is central to our festivities because we’re reminded of the “reason for the season.” Our grandchildren now participate in decorating Jesus’ birthday cake.

Jesus’ birthday cake decorated by our youngest grandchildren last year.

And as Christians, our hearts are preparing for the faith, hope, and love of the season. Our hearts are filled with gratefulness for our Savior. We live in JOY because we will someday be standing in His LIGHT and be greeted with His LOVING EMBRACE.

BOOK REVIEW–WISHING FOR MISTLETOE by Robin Lee Hatcher

I just finished reading Wishing for Mistletoe, a charming inspirational romance story. Author Robin Lee Hatcher always writes such heart-touching books. This one is perfect for your Christmas reading list. Plus there is a featured cupcake shop on the island! (As a reader of my blog, you know I love the mention of treats!) My five-star review is below.

A delightful Christmas-filled romance! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I completely enjoyed this book which is filled with the spirit of Christmas….warm holiday festivities, new beginnings, and sharing faith with friends.

In an attempt to break through writer’s block, author Ariel Highbridge commits to spending the winter season on ice-bound Sanctuary Island in Lake Huron. Her temporary neighbor, widower Tom Fuller, and his daughter become instrumental in helping her find peace with the isolated life in the community.

And what a fun time to enjoy this charming small town! SNOW, preparations for a Christmas festival, a “right up Ariel’s alley” children’s holiday writing contest, and a yummy cupcake shop. Author Robin Lee Hatcher writes such a sweet “new beginnings” romance developing between Ariel and Tom, despite a few bumps long the way.

For a story filled with the warm feelings of Christmas, I highly recommend Wishing for Mistletoe. You will delight in the preparations for the holiday with gatherings of friends, childlike anticipation, plus a hopeful and loving relationship developing. The conclusion is absolutely charming.

Favorite quote: “For food in a world where many walk in hunger; for faith where many walk in fear; for friends in a world where many walk alone, we give You thanks, O Lord. Amen.”

Click the button below to buy Wishing for Mistletoe from Amazon. You may also want to check out Robin’s webpage at: http://www.RobinLeeHatcher.com.

To purchase from Amazon

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TEATIME TREAT-Cranberry Orange scones

Cranberry Orange scones with Christmas Eve tea.

Today I’m serving seasonally appropriate cranberry and orange scones with a delightful Stash Christmas Eve tea, a spiced spearmint blend flavored with cinnamon and orange. The photo includes a Santa painted by my mother who loved all things Christmas…but especially this time of giving to others in Christian service.

Nativity my dad created. Jesus is the Light of the world.

THANK YOU FOR STOPPING BY MY BLOG TODAY FOR TEA AND SCONES. I PRAY YOUR CHRISTMAS IS FILLED WITH LIGHT AS YOU CELEBRATE THE BIRTHDAY OF JESUS CHRIST, OUR LORD AND SAVIOR. MAY YOU BE BLESSED WITH COMFORT AND JOY THIS SEASON AS YOU EXPERIENCE THE PEACE OF GOD’S LOVE.

With prayers and blessings,

Sherida

NOVEMBER NEWSLETTER-I’m thankful for so much…our Lord, family, friends, authors, and desert trails.

To the end that my glory may sing praise to thee, and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give thanks unto thee for ever.

~~Psalm 30:12 (KJV)

The month of November provides a time to focus on gratefulness. I’m thankful for so many blessings in my life. As the weather cools here in the Southwest, we enter perfect desert hiking conditions…cooler temperatures, colorful wildflowers, and beautiful vistas. We are fortunate to enjoy great trails during this time of year.

Though it has been rainy, we were still surprised to discover water in a usually dry canyon on a favorite trail.

Hiking a river preserve trail, we’re treated to shaded walkways and colorful wildflowers.

We are thankful for the trails where we can hike and enjoy God’s amazing creation.

TWO BOOK REVIEWS

Heidi Ennis is a new-to-me author. Her historical romance book, A Father’s Dream, takes the reader on a journey to the Pacific Northwest of the late 19th century and blends Native American and Scandinavian culture in an exciting adventure. And what an evocative cover!

MY REVIEW of A Father’s Dream

An exciting love story of courage and fortitude in the rugged Pacific Northwest! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

A Father’s Dream takes the reader on an unforgettable journey during the 1880’s from Europe to New York City, then to the Pacific coast on a hopeful quest to fulfill the dream of owning a Washington Territory homestead.

The characters are wonderfully complex. I admired the courage and fortitude of Swedish immigrant Johanna Oman as she faced tragic situations to claim the land her father hoped would provide a new beginning for his family. Even with doubts along the way, her faith sustains her. Native American Mahkah “John” Haylaku, a member of a Columbia River tribe, is a worthy hero, handsome and strong, who overcame childhood abuse to become a compassionate protector.

Their relationship begins when he reluctantly agrees to be Johanna’s guide to locate her property. Their travel through the rugged wilderness is fascinating…immersed in the vivid landscape, dealing with the treacherous trail conditions, and facing the dangers of criminal elements. As they encounter many heart-stopping challenges, their commitment and love for each other grows.

I enjoyed the cultural details of the native customs of John’s people and the Swedish heritage of Johanna’s world. The ending is absolutely amazing….leaving me with tears and smiles…the best kind of romance! If you enjoy epic historical tales, I highly recommend this faith-filled story!

Favorite quote: “The strength of women. We are strong when we are connected. We give all to those we love, but we do it with the strength of those who have gone before us, those who have loved us and sacrificed for us.”

Click to purchase from Amazon: https://www.Amazon.com/dp/B0CQ15XMJF

For more information and to learn about the next book in the series, releasing in December, check out the author’s website: https://atthefootofmountains.com

MY REVIEW of A Christmas Inheritance

A perfect set of faith-filled Christmas novellas with the connected themes of inherited treasures and second chances. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

His Christmas Refuge by Tanya Stowe

Kurt Worley receives an unexpected inheritance from his uncle…a trailer park located back in his Arizona hometown…a place he left behind because of his dysfunctional childhood. He expected the property to be given to his high school girlfriend, Trish, who spent many years helping his Uncle Chris run and update the trailer park into a fun resort community, while raising her two children after her husband passed away. In this story, I enjoyed the characters, the revelations of secrets, and the themes of forgiveness and doing the right thing. What a fun group of individuals at the RV community….creating a “found family”…. taking care of each other…in the spirit of Christmas!

A Montana Christmas Promise by Myra Johnson

Since he’d worked for many years managing his benefactors’ apple orchard, Andrew Norwood had expected to inherit the farm after the widow died. However, it was surprisingly passed on to city girl Eleanor McKnight. She reluctantly arrives in the small rural community after the aunt she’d never met bequeathed the property to her. The untangling of emotions between the couple provide an interesting road to romance. I loved the details of the Christmas festival preparations, including all the delicious apple treats, and the lovely Rose of Sharon ring mentioned in the story. The warm ending fills the heart with the holiday spirit of the season.

The Prodigal Preacher’s Christmas Homecoming by Delia Latham

When Kale Mitchell returns to Sweetsong, Oregon to the house he inherited from his parents, he is greeted by his childhood friend, Dia Monday. As the prodigal preacher takes his father’s place as pastor, “Diamond” helps him reintegrate into the community he left in disgrace. I enjoyed their discovery of the inherited wooden chest which moves their relationship toward a sweet and satisfying ending.

If you are like me and enjoy reading holiday stories which uplift the heart, I highly recommend this set of Christmas novellas to fill you with the feel-good spirit of the season….plus make you excited to prepare for the special time with delicious treats and festive decorations.

You can purchase from Amazon at: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FLZ56KQ5

TEATIME TREATS

For our treat today, I’m going traditional Thanksgiving with a slice of pumpkin pie and a spiced orange tea I found at a Fred Harvey shop. Enjoy!

I’m thankful for you stopping by my blog during this busy time….for a spot of refreshment. What are you especially thankful for this month? I pray you are blessed with gratitude and contentment as we prepare for the celebration of our Savior’s birth in December.

Blessings and prayers,

Sherida

To purchase Healing Hearts from Amazon: http://www.Amazon.com/dp/B0DHJG6HZC

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

*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. I apologize for delays in posting. Thank you!

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

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 )

February #teatime newsletter (including a sweet gift) with hearts and chocolate, plus book reviews….with plenty of faith, hope, and love!

That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, May be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the breath, and length, and depth, and height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fullness of God.
Ephesians 3:17-19 (KJV)

TEATIME TREATS

Since my husband had a tooth pulled on Valentine’s Day, we had a quiet day at home while he recovered. However, as a belated celebration, we attended a Chocolate Affaire. Wow! Such a selection of goodies! Today for our teatime treat, I’m serving a few of the items we brought home. What would you like? Fudge, chocolates or macaroons?

A GIFT FOR YOU….For the Love of Recipes!

Recently, a group of historical romance authors complied a cookbook of recipes featured in their inspirational books. We each added a recipe and a bit of information about the story which mentions the food treat. My contribution is the bischochito recipe from Healing Hearts: A Turquoise Treasures Romance. If you’re a subscriber to this blog, please mention in the comments below (by February 25, 2025) that you’d like to have this gift, and I’ll email you a PDF copy of this special collection. Our thanks to Christian author Penny Zeller (http://www.pennyzeller.com ) for organizing this cookbook!

NOW FOR MY REVIEWS OF BOOKS I’VE READ RECENTLY

The Road Before Us by Janine Rosche

I really enjoyed this story!

The Road Before Us covers many of emotional topics as a group of three individuals drive together across the countryside of the iconic Route 66. Each person has emotional issues to delve into during their travels. The author makes the situations and feelings realistic. I eagerly read the book to find out what happened to these struggling characters. I was invested in each one as I enjoyed their trip along Route 66. I especially liked the strength they found in their faith. I highly recommend becoming immersed in their journey along the Mother Road as they discover themselves and heal from the past.

To find out more, please visit the author’s website at: http://www.janinerosche.com

Escape to Whispering Creek by Barbara M. Britton

An engaging romantic suspense!

The mystery tucked between the pages of this novel makes for a fascinating romance. When Emma Uranova discovers she’d been tricked and swindled by the company she works for, she plans to stay with her best friend in Whispering Creek. During the visit, she accepts a temporary position at an electrical company. Her boss, Wade Donovan, is recuperating from an accident.

Unfortunately, threats and complications have followed Emma to her new location, perhaps endangering her friends. The challenging situation, with the accompanying budding attraction, is heartwarming as the couple strongly leans on their mutual faith to sustain them through the decisions which must be made. “The fact that they shared a faith in God was icing on the cookie.”

Though this is the second book in the series, I had no trouble following the story. If you enjoy a faith-based romance with a suspenseful “could-be-possible” scenario involving crimes and danger, this will be a good choice.

Favorite quote: “God had a plan that I didn’t even know about, and here I am, looking forward to what God has for me in the future. I’m not looking backward.”

*I was given a copy of this book by the author and publisher with no requirement to write a review. This is my honest opinion.

For more information, please visit the author’s website at:

http://www.barbarambritton.com

Hiking photo of the month! February is a perfect month to hike in Arizona, so I’ll leave you with one picture I took of my husband as we hiked along a desert trail. Look at that saguaro cactus! Do you see my husband?

Thank you for joining me for my February Teatime celebration. I also want to thank those of you who have posted such touching reviews of my historical romance, Healing Hearts. I LOVE them all! You have warmed my heart with your precious words, plus you have blessed an organization which helps children with heart syndromes! I am GRATEFUL for each of you!

With blessings and prayers,

Sherida

With a big THANK YOU, I welcome you to my January #teatime and #OneWord post!

Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing.
I Thessalonians 5:16-17 ~~KJV

MY 2025 ONE WORD-REJOICE

Thanks to all who purchased my book, Healing Hearts: A Turquoise Treasures Romance. I was able to donate the proceeds of the sales of this book to the Sudden Arrhythmia Death Syndrome Foundation (http://sads.org) in honor of my youngest grandson. SADS helps heal the hearts of children who have certain health issues. Plus I deeply appreciate those who wrote such lovely reviews. I rejoice in all your support!

Teatime treat-Cranberry Tart

Who doesn’t love festive treats around the holidays? I purchased some cranberries before Thanksgiving and planned to serve this luscious tart for Christmas, but alas, didn’t find enough time get it baked. (Don’t worry, we had plenty of other delicious desserts!)

But, rejoice! I still had the ingredients, so whipped it up for a mid-January treat. It’s so pretty and looks especially nice in front of the snowman decorations my mother painted years ago. Here’s a link to the recipe: https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/nantucket-cranberry-tart/ I suggest placing the tart pan on a foil-covered baking sheet just in case the juices leak out…as this happened to me when I made it. Also, I needed to bake a bit longer than stated in the recipe.

Book recommendation: Echoes of Texas by Laura Conner Kestner

I’m delighted to share my review of an award-winning author friend’s latest novel.

A CAPTIVATING 5-STAR ROMANCE!

I was captivated by this historical romance. Despite their age difference, a sweet attraction develops between former Texas Ranger Captain Joshua Parnell and frontier nurse Martha Kate Gentry. When Joshua gets a message from an old friend asking for help, both Joshua and Martha Kate get involved with the unusual behavior of the citizens of Weller’s Station, Texas. The mystery surrounding past events in this town kept me turning the pages.

Author Laura Conner Kestner skillfully immerses the reader in accurate details which make the historical period come to life. The characters were strong, with the tender romance and a gentle faith element woven throughout…just what I like in a book. I highly recommend this fascinating tale of the Texas frontier….along with all the other books in the Moccasin Rock series.

Favorite quote:
“I trust that I was where I was supposed to be,” said Martha Kate. “I prayed often for God to guide me.”

Find out more about author Laura Conner Kestner and her books on her website: http://www.LauraConnerKestner.com. Here’s the link to purchase from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DQ2M9GRJ

Thank you for visiting my blog!

What books do you have on your reading list for 2025?

Did you choose a ONE WORD for 2025 or do you make resolutions?

What is your favorite holiday treat? I’m already starting a list for the next holiday season.

I truly appreciate your support. May you have many reasons to REJOICE in 2025!

Blessings and prayers, Sherida

Here’s the link to purchase my ebook on Amazon. Thank you! http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DHJG6HZC