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.
Wishing for Mistletoe by Robin Lee Hatcher
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.
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.
For by grace ye are saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
~~Ephesians 2:8 (KJV)
ABOUT THE BOOK
Welcome back to Hope Street Church, where friendships are formed, fresh starts are encouraged, and mysteries are solved . . .
When a scathing review by a prominent food critic threatens to ruin the career of local celebrity chef Anton Parsley, he turns to Cooper and her Bible study group for help. Cooper’s boyfriend was once mentored by the beloved chef, and Cooper will do anything she can to support his struggling restaurant. But before she can figure out how to restore the chef’s good reputation, the food critic is found murdered in his restaurant. Suddenly, Cooper and the gang must go from propping up the chef to tracking down a killer.
It’s well known that the food critic had built a lucrative career with her bombastic reviews, but as Cooper and her friends look into her background, they discover that she may not have been who she appeared to be. Suspecting that secrets from her past will lead them to whoever wanted her dead, the Bible study group cook up a scheme to trap the culprit. The risks are high and may just get them burned, but they’re dead-set on catching the killer before the chef’s career is toast . . .
Includes heavenly recipes from Magnolia Lee’s kitchen!
MY REVIEW
A fun who-done-it mystery! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Hope Street Church Mysteries series is quite enjoyable. Each book can be read as a stand alone, so you can jump in anytime. Cooper Lee is the main character in each story, along with her friends in the Sunrise Bible Study group. This newest addition to the collection finds the sleuthing members of the group determined to help absolve a local chef of the murder of a food critic. The victim was found in the chef’s restaurant….and the chef is the uncle/mentor of Cooper’s boyfriend.
As always, their plans for investigating the crime are interesting to delve into. The characters are all intriguing. I appreciate the reliance on their faith as they go about the work to solve the crime. Plus there are some featured treats from Magnolia’s Marvels….definitely a good thing for those of us who are reader foodies.
If you like to read cozy mysteries written by award-winning authors, you will be glad you picked up A Taste for Crime. Be sure to check out the recipes at the end!
Favorite quotes: “Ephesians 2:8 tells us we have been saved through faith. Faith is a gift from God. Trust is simply the confidence in that faith even when the world tells you otherwise.”
“When we acknowledge that something is missing in our lives, we’re taking the first step toward meeting God.”
*I received this book from @NetGalley and publisher @Beyondthepagepub with no requirement to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
ABOUT THE AUTHORS
USA Today and New York Times bestselling author Ellery Adams lives in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, with her husband, two children, and three cats. She’s written multiple series including the Supper Club Mysteries, the Book Retreat Mysteries, the Secret, Book, and Scone Society Mysteries, and more.
A freelance writer for over twenty years, Tina Radcliffe is an RWA Honor Roll member, a two-time RWA Golden Heart finalist, four-time ACFW Carol Award finalist, and a 2014 ACFW Carol Award winner. She currently resides in Arizona, where she writes fun, heartwarming romance. Visit Tina Radcliffe via her website: https://www.TinaRadcliffe.com
TEATIME TREATS
In the Hope Street Church Mystery series, Cooper Lee’s mother sells Magnolia’s Marvels…..delectable homemade goodies. One of the recipes included at the end of A Taste for Crime is for Apple Cake. Today I’m serving this sweet dessert, topped with confectioners sugar drizzle and sprinkled with sparkling sugar….a perfect teatime delight!
Thank you for joining me for tea treats and a book review. Do you enjoy reading books which highlight food items? What cozy mysteries have you read lately?I pray your springtime is filled with fun activities, inspiring stories and just the right amount of special treats!
With blessings,
Sherida
*To leave a comment, click on the date below, then scroll down to find the reply form. Comments are appreciated and will appear after moderation, I apologize for delays in posting. Thank you!
WAIT, my One Word for 2022, again proved inspired as we WAITed for the Golden Ticket.
Filled with anticipation, my husband and I headed to Washington in June for our long aWAITed backpacking trip in North Cascades National Park……our second three-generation backcountry adventure.
View from the trail in North Cascades National Park
To obtain a coveted reservation for a remote camping site in North Cascades National Park, an entry in a lottery is required. So we WAITed until March 3 for the registration to open. Four of us signed up for a chance, then WAITed until March 18 to be notified. ONLY ONE of us had won the “Golden Ticket.” Then we WAITed until April 12 for the time window to open allowing us to choose a site.
The WAIT was worth it! We got great sites for three nights on a trail which would be just right for the different ages (5-years to 73-years-old) and abilities of our family group. Then there was the WAIT for June to start our adventure.
Backpacking in North Cascades National Park
On the trail
On the trail.
Our grandsweeties were fabulous hikers….a total of fourteen miles with more than a 1000’ elevation gain. Each grandchild carried their own pack with needed items, even the youngest carrying her water and snacks. Their parents are to be commended for hauling heavy loads with the tent, stove, water purification items, meals and other needed supplies for their family of five. When we reached each day’s campsite, everyone pitched in to set up tents.
Tents in the trees.
Our oldest granddaughter learned to light the Jetboil to heat water for dinner. Our grandson practiced wise bear-country food storage by throwing the rock bag onto a tree limb in order to hang food safely during the nights. Our youngest granddaughter pointed out wildflowers along the way.
Tiger lily .
We dined on yummy dehydrated meals. During downtime, we played a card game, Kings in the Corner, on a tree stump. During a rainy morning breakfast under a tarp, a friendly deer stopped by to visit.
A friendly breakfast visitor
The trail was beautiful, lined with tall trees and offering views of mountain peaks. We crossed many cascading creeks and were thankful for a sturdy bridge over Thunder Creek. The sounds of rushing water alternated with quiet forest sounds as we hiked along the path.
Along the forest trail, heading to one of our campsites.Crossing cascading streams.Fortunately there is a sturdy bridge over Thunder Creek. The turquoise color is because of glacier flour.
SCRIPTURE
Your love, Lord, reaches to the highest heavens, your faithfulness to the skies. Your righteous is like the highest mountains, your justice like the great deep. You, Lord, preserve both people and animals. How priceless is your unfailing love, O God! ~~ Psalm 36:5-7 (NIV)
What an amazing experience we had making memories among God’s magnificent creations! Did you need to WAIT for a special activity or gathering this summer? I pray your days are filled with special treasures!
With blessings,
Sherida
*Comments are appreciated and will appear after moderation. I apologize for delays in posting.
Welcome to my #Teatime review of Jill Weatherholt’s latest Love Inspired romance! If you’re looking for an uplifting story to start 2022, this book is a great choice. Isn’t the cover featuring adorable triplets absolutely charming?
Searching for Home by Jill Weatherholt
ABOUT SEARCHING FOR HOME
Can three little matchmakers lasso a cowboy father?
When injured professional bull rider Luke Beckett returns to his hometown to recover, he doesn’t expect his B and B host and physical therapist to be his first and only love, Meg Brennan. He’s also unprepared for Meg’s Ada or able triplets to steal his heart. Luke’s past has him doubting he’s good enough for Meg and the children, but they might be just what the doctor ordered to help him heal…..
MY REVIEW
An absolutely enthralling story! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
When you pick up Searching for Home, be prepared for a delightful romance as three adorable little matchmakers fill your heart!
“Cowboy Luke” Beckett, a successful rodeo star, returns to his home town of Whispering Slopes to recover from an injury. His physical therapist turns out to be his former girlfriend, Meg Brennan, who recently returned to town to care for her sister’s triplets and a failing bed and breakfast lodge.
With both suffering from past abandonment issues…physical and emotional….the couple truly wants to provide stability for the three hurting children. But issues of trust and understanding cloud Meg and Luke’s perceptions of their future together. With the cute encouragement of the little matchmakers, the romance slowly develops.
I always find small town stories so warm and comforting. Whispering Slopes is this kind of community. “The people in this town were like one big family. They were the most loving and caring folks she’d ever known.” Author Jill Weatherholt creates characters I want to stroll with down the charming main street, stopping at a shop for hot tea, sweet scones and a friendly chat.
And this romance!!! *sigh* Two people disillusioned about family and love, but still filled with compassion toward others who need help. Love and faith shine throughout the pages. I especially liked the ideas the little ones developed to bring the couple together. The bed and breakfast setting…and the plans involving the inn…..are charming. Then there is the PERFECT ending! Page by page, I was absolutely enthralled with this uplifting story!
Favorite quotes:
“Why don’t we just focus on having a good time today and not worry about what the future might bring?”
“Sometimes God has His own plan for our life. We might not always agree or understand, but we have to trust Him and His timing. He always knows what’s best for us.”
*I was given a copy of this book with no requirement to write a review. I’m delighted to offer my honest opinion.
Now for a teatime treat. Wouldn’t triple chocolate cookies be perfect with a book featuring triplets? I’m serving mint tea or perhaps you’d prefer warm cocoa with these chocolate cookies.
Tea (or cocoa) and triple chocolate cookies!
Thank you for stopping by for this review post. I hope your Christmas was filled with joy and the New Year ahead is filled with great books!What are you most anticipating in 2022?
With prayers and blessings, Sherida
*Comments are appreciated and will appear after moderation. I apologize for delays in posting.
For all of us, 2021 has been a year of challenges and adapting to changes. My well-used and appropriate “One Word” for the year was COURAGE. And I was blessed with courage as my husband and I made many changes this year!
During this time, we happily relocated to be closer to family. This move meant downsizing our stuff, buying and selling houses, and learning about living in the desert….warmer temperatures, different plants and unusual creatures….javelinas! When December arrived, we even noted differences in holiday displays. Instead of twinkling lights wrapped around snow-covered fir trees, Santa hats sit atop cacti, and sparkling glass balls cover the tips of agave plants. These changes make me smile!
Hiking is a different experience from the mountains we’re accustomed to. You learn to walk carefully along the paths while enjoying the varieties of desert vegetation.
A desert hiking trail
TIP: Do not get close to Teddy Bear Cholla……they “jump” to attach as you pass by. The stickers hurt going in….and even more when pulled out! I learned from firsthand experience!
Up close to a Teddy Bear Cholla!
Through all the changes this year, we are abundantly grateful to live near our family. With challenges faced in 2021, we rejoice in the constant grace of our Savior. We know He is with us every step of the way!
Christmas 2021
As 2021 winds down, we can anticipate the celebration of Jesus’ birthday….an event which brought great changes to the world. Now is a good time to reflect and consider our blessings. You may have conquered challenges you didn’t foresee. You may need strength to continue through difficulties. God is with us always and has planned for our success. Our Savior’s birth gives us courage and hope for the future!
I pray your Christmas is filled with the joy of Christ and you feel surrounded by His love! Happy birthday, Jesus!
With blessings and prayers,
Sherida
Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord.~~Psalm 31:24 (KJV)
*Comments are appreciated and will appear after moderation. I apologize for delays in posting.
Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world; he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life. ~~John 8:12 (KJV)
As we wait for the glorious celebration of our Savior’s supreme act of love, do you have a special memory of anticipating Easter? Maybe you joined with family for church, looking forward to a feast at Grandma’s house afterward. Maybe as a child you eagerly awaited the search to find surprise eggs for your Easter basket. Maybe on an Easter morning you admired a peaceful scenic view while waiting to hear His voice during a private worship time. I have all those special memories, but one experience stands above all the others.
Many years ago in the predawn darkness, my husband-to-be and I joined a hushed crowd gathered along a favorite East coast beach. All were silent. No one spoke as we stood quietly in the sand, the scents of the ocean drifting on a light breeze. The only sounds came from the waves lapping along the shoreline. We were reverent, filled with expectation. We all knew why we were there. Heads bowed in prayer, we waited. The sky gradually lightened with colors of pink and orange. Then the sun rose over the horizon, filling the day with glorious light. Our joyful hymns of praise filled the air for the Easter sunrise service. The wait was over. The tomb was empty. Our Savior had risen.
JESUS IS RISEN!
As Christians, we celebrate this moment, this proof of the promise…the tomb is empty! After the agonizing days of remembering Jesus’ suffering, God’s plan is revealed in the blazing glory of the morning light. He is risen that we might be saved. We are forgiven and offered eternal life.
The angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified. He is not here; for he is risen.
Matthew 28:5-6 (KJV)
PRAYER
Dear God,
Thank you for the sacrifice of Your beloved Son, the LIGHT of the world, who offers us the ultimate gift of eternal life. As we wait for the Easter celebration to begin, help us BE THE LIGHT….to bring Your message of forgiveness to others, to give encouragement to those needing hope, and to walk more closely with You as Christian examples of love.
In Jesus’ name, Amen
Thank you for joining me for this Easter devotional. What are your treasured memories of Easter? As you celebrate our risen Lord, may you walk in His LIGHT….forever reflecting His love and grace.
Blessings and prayers always,
Sherida
*Your thoughts are truly appreciated. I apologize for delays in posting your comments.
Dressed in full armor, ready to accept the challenge.
BIBLE VERSE
Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.
Ephesians 6:11 NIV
Are you facing challenges? Health issues? Work-related stresses? Relationship issues?
When we must work through difficult times, we don’t usually see the reason or meaning for the struggles we endure. After we’ve gone through the fire, we can reflect back on what we’ve gained. Strength. Confidence. Humility. Empathy. Gratefulness.
Bright red cast and crutches
Recently I had complicated foot surgery. If you know me, you know hiking is integral to my well-being….physically, emotionally and spiritually. Four weeks and counting with no weight bearing. Crutches are a pain…literally! Then I’ll face a couple of months with an “orthopedic boot” and then intensive physical therapy. No hiking or neighborhood walks. The hardest challenge is accepting I’m dependent on my husband for many daily tasks. He’s great about helping, but I don’t like limits on my abilities.
Even though this recovery is not the worst health challenge my husband and I have faced, this time of waiting is giving me plenty of opportunity to trust my faith…to stay positive and hopeful about the ultimate outcome. After this, I’ll deeply appreciate being able to walk across a room without the aid (hinderance?) of crutches. I’m clinging to the message in one of the Bible passages I think of when I need strength….fortitude for any and every challenge faced.
BIBLE VERSE
Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
Ephesians 6:13-17
Doesn’t this passage fill you with hope and confidence? No matter the challenge before you, these words give strength to face the difficulty ahead. To pass through the fire….of pain, despair and fear. Our Lord prepares us to do battle with truth, righteousness, faith, salvation and His Word.
Put on the full armor of God. ~Ephesians 6:11 NIV
TRAVEL
We enjoy attending Renaissance festivals, a little taste of the sights and sounds of the past. The jousting knights are the perfect example of putting on armor before the battle. At the Arizona Renaissance Festival near Phoenix, many attendees wear elaborate costumes. Colorful wares are offered in cute shoppes. Tunes from bagpipes and beating drums can be heard. The air has scents of wood fires and roasting turkey legs. There was even a cute tea shop, perfect for my tea-loving self.
Tea shop and apothecary
So today I’m serving Shakespeare’s Romance Tea—white tea, raspberry leaf, hibiscus and peach.
Various jars of teas sold at the Renaissance Faire.
If you’re interested in Renaissance fairs, I recommend the elaborate Arizona Renaissance Festival held on weekends during February and March. For details, visit http://www.arizonarenfestinfo.com.
BOOK NEWS
Some of my author friends have books releasing soon.
LORD OF HER HEART by Sherrinda Ketchersid
Fitting in with the theme of jousting knights, Sherrinda Ketchersid’s debut, Lord of Her Heart, is available May 14, published by Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas. To escape an evil plot, Lady Jocelyn dons a disguise, hoping to find out the truth about her father’s situation. Jousting tournament champion Malcolm, who desires a peaceful life on his own manor, discovers her deception. They must learn to trust each other in this story of romance set in medieval times. Sounds intriguing!
Patti Jo Moore’s third book in her Emerald Coast Romance series, In Tune With Romance, releases later this month with Forget Me Not Romances. We can anticipate another sweet romance as we visit the charming beach town of Coastal Breeze. We’re all ready for some warm breezes, I imagine!
A MOST INCONVENIENT LOVE by Ruth Logan Herne
Currently I’m reading A Most Inconvenient Love, by Ruth Logan Herne. This historical, set on the prairies of South Dakota, is engaging as a school marm and a lumber baron find their way to a happy ever after. I always enjoy this author’s style of sprinkling wisdom among the pages of a great story.
PRAYER
Dear Lord, we thank you for the courage you give us for face the challenges in our lives. Your Word fortifies us with truth, righteousness, faith and salvation. Please be with us as we walk toward the light with joy. In Jesus’ name, Amen
Are you facing challenges? May we pray for you? Have you walked a challenging path and come through stronger because of your experience? What Scriptures do you treasure when faced with difficulties?
I’ve felt the prayers of those of you praying for my surgery. I’d appreciate continuing prayers for my foot to heal completely so I’ll be out on the mountain trails this summer. Thank you for prayers, sharing and joining me for Tuesday Tea.
With blessings and prayers always,
Sherida
*Comments are appreciated and will appear after moderation. I apologize for delays in posting.
Welcome to #TuesdayTea…just a bit early! Today we’re celebrating REFRESH, so I’m pouring invigorating chai spice black tea by Stash or a calming herbal camomile by Celestial Seasonings.
September brings the beginning of autumn and the start of the new school year.
As a former kindergarten teacher, I have a collection of Caldecott Award books and alphabet picture books.
For many years, I was a teacher, both in early elementary levels and in preschools. The new school year always brought a refreshing new beginning. A new assortment of unique kids. The smell of wax crayons. Bulletin boards full of color. Shouts and laugher on the playground.
Fall colors along the road to the trailhead.
But now as September arrives, I have a quieter time to breathe in the refreshing cooler air, carrying hints of pine. During the start of autumn, the mountain hiking available near us is special. Colors of fall…reds, golds and maroon…paint the landscape and a chill touches the wind as we hike through forests, passing creeks and climbing hillsides.
Recently, we followed a trail up a mountainside to have lunch on Sharkstooth Pass at an elevation of 12,000 feet above sea level.
Majestic Mount Hesperus stood beside us as we traveled along the path.
Even though we were slow on the climb up, we were refreshed along the way by the little creeks we crossed and by the chilly breeze blowing along the rocky slopes above the tree line. When we reached the pass, we stopped for lunch and marveled at the valley below and how far we’d come.
View from near the top of Sharkstooth Pass
My husband and I both felt the presence of our Lord as we absorbed the beauty of His creation before us. We felt deeply refreshed.
To me, September is a time of refreshment after the heat and busy times of summer. I hope you are able to take time to refresh during this month.
That I may come unto you with joy by the will of God, and may with you be refreshed. Romans 15:32 (KJV)
PRAYER
Lord, we do get busy, pulled in so many directions. Help us appreciate the season of autumn as a time to breathe deeply, quiet our minds and refresh our spirits. Amen.
BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS to refresh your heart….
Christmas with the Cowboy (Big Heart Ranch) by Tina Radcliffe (releases 9/18 and Kindle releases 10/1)
I’ve loved all the books featuring Big Heart Ranch, a home for forgotten children. Each story centers on one of the three siblings helping to run the ranch. Tina Radcliffe’s writing adds humor, along with faith, to create fun and inspiring romances. This latest book is filled with Christmas spirit. I love this story…and will post a review next week! 🎄
The Sound of Distant Thunder (The Amish of Weaver’s Creek) by Jan Drexler (releases 9/18)
Though I haven’t read this book, I always enjoy author Jan Drexler faith-touched historical stories. This is the first in a new series. From the description on Amazon, it sounds good.
”From the talented pen of Jan Drexler comes this brand new Amish series set against the backdrop of the Civil War. She puts her characters to the test as they struggle to reconcile their convictions and desires while the national conflict threatens to undermine and engulf their community.”
At Home in Wishing Bridge by Ruth Logan Herne (releases 10/2)
If you like small town stories with warm down home characters, you will like this contemporary romance. This second book set in Wishing Bridge, New York, brings Dr. Ethan Brandenburg and nurse practitioner Thea Anastas together to temporarily bring medical assistance to the small town. They did not plan to be stuck in the tiny rural area, but He has an even better future ahead for these two people. A faith-filled story of leaving the past behind for brighter tomorrows.
WRITING NEWS
After completing an online class titled Monster Revisions, I have many ideas for improving my manuscript as I work through the revising process. In another class, I learned about submitting short stories for magazine publication and find this smaller word count goal may work for me.
Thank you for joining me for #TuesdayTea! What ways or in what places do you feel refreshed? I hope you treasure being refreshed the by the start of a new season.
Blessings and prayers always,
Sherida
*I appreciate comments. Your comment will be visible after moderation. I apologize for delays.
Welcome to a CHOCOLATE Tuesday Tea! Don’t these truffles look amazing? I’ll pour you a cup of tea, coffee or cocoa, while you select a few of these chocolate candies. These “Snakebite” truffles are from a favorite shop in Durango, Colorado, the Animas Chocolate Company. I haven’t sampled these particular delights, but the decorative colors are perfect for a Valentine’s Day treat, don’t you think? So glossy and pretty!
Snakebite Truffles-“Chile infused dark chocolate ganache”
What does chocolate have to do with MY ONE WORD?
For a few years now, I have embraced the concept of selecting One Word for the year, along with a Scripture reference for my motivation. In the past, I’ve selected LIGHT, LOVINGKINDNESS, REFLECT and SERVING….words which helped me focus on one thought rather than a mix of many resolutions.
Starting in December, I began to seek my 2018 word…mulling over possibilities, trying out different choices, and praying for the flashing sign. Which word would God give me for 2018?
None of the ideas popping into my head seemed to be THE sparkling One Word for the new year. But waiting was good. Near the end of the month, I received the glowing word God gave me!
THE BACKSTORY
After a rough 2016, the past year of 2017 was a great year! As it was my husband’s first year of retirement, we did plenty of traveling, even more than we’d planned. We were fortunate to have special times with our sons and their families, including celebrating the birth and baptism of our third grandchild. I was blessed to be included in an encouraging group of Writing Sisters seeking the mutual dream of Christian publishing. Hiking in the mountains filled our summer days with joy, a miracle after my husband’s life-changing severe leg injury of a few years ago. With all these activities, 2017 was an amazing year!
However, I realized I was frenetic…..rushing all the time, stressing to do everything, trying to make everything (and me) better…always thinking about my lengthening to-do list, planning the next fabulous trip, and continually revising my contest-finaling manuscript. I had plenty of blessings, but still….I found myself unsatisfied.
I wished for more writing time.
I wished for more time with family.
I wished for more places to visit.
I wished for more miles hiked.
I wished for more success toward my publishing dream.
I wished for more chocolate.
You get the picture. I wanted MORE!
I believe I’m always GRATEFUL for my blessings, praying each morning after our devotional time of lifting praises of thanksgiving and prayerful requests on behalf of those on our prayer list. I don’t like to think my desires for more are greedy or bad for me….well, maybe wanting more chocolate is not a good idea. I know my needs are ABUNDANTLY provided for by our Lord.
During late December conversation with my husband, I felt a glowing moment of realization. God gave me my One Word for 2018…….APPRECIATE.
My One Word 2018
APPRECIATE is more than being thankful….more than being grateful. God wants me to pause…… to take some quiet time to go deeper and truly APPRECIATE what I have been given…
to TREASURE the time I do have with family,
to be CONTENT with my writing accomplishments,
to REJOICE in the trails I can walk,
to IMMERSE myself in the places I visit,
even to SAVOR the chocolate I eat,
and to APPRECIATE who I am……a flawed, sometimes self-involved, perfection-seeking child of God. He doesn’t want me to stop striving and planning for tomorrow, but to stop and APPRECIATE for a moment….what I do have and who I am….because of HIS LOVE and GRACE!
BIBLE VERSE
This is the Scripture He placed on my heart:
If you are really wise, you’ll think this over—it’s time you appreciate God’s deep love. Proverbs 107:42 (MSG)
MY THOUGHTS
At the beginning of the year, I start a new note on my iPhone, titled with my new One Word for the year. Right under the title, I include the new Scripture verse. During the year, this is where I jot down any important thoughts. This way, I see my One Word and Scripture often.
Has my One Word enlightened my 2018 path? Yes! Already in the first month of this new year, my attitude has changed because of my focus on APPRECIATE. I feel more relaxed. Contented. When I start to whine or complain, I stop, giving myself a moment to appreciate my situation. This puts a new light on my attitude. Even my husband has noted my “inner peace.” Thank you, Lord, for Your love and guidance!
TREATS
And speaking of chocolate, here’s a treat from a special place, Animas Chocolate Company, in Durango, Colorado. And, yes, I appreciated sharing the delicious and spicy El Bandito coffee and pure milk chocolate bar (inscribed with “LOVE”) with my husband for an early Valentine treat. But the best part? Appreciating the blessing of spending some quiet time with my husband. Perfect!
El Bandito coffee….spicy!
Animas Chocolate Company shop in Durango, Colorado.
PRAYERS
There is no need to comment. Instead, take a moment to APPRECIATE your TREASURED BLESSINGS, especially the blessing of God’s deep love for you. Please know I appreciate you and pray for you, my friend.
Welcome to Tuesday Tea and our chat with author Myra Johnson about her newest release, A Rose So Fair. This third book in the Flowers of Eden series by Myra Johnson is an inspirational romance set during the Great Depression. The reader experiences the difficulties encountered as people struggled with economic challenges. If you’d like to enter the giveaway for a Kindle ebook, please make a comment and complete the Rafflecopter entry form at the end of this post.
For me, the story recalled my grandmother’s snippets of her life during that time….the failing of my grandparents’ hardware store, food given to hobos passing by, my grandfather scrambling for odd jobs, and the “making do” with simple things as was necessary. I admired Rose Linwood, a heroine so typical of the strong women who carried on during those trying situations. Caleb Wieland is a great hero, persistent and loving. The story is filled with strong faith and courageous characters…as was required for life during that period of history.
Chatting with author Myra Johnson:
Myra kindly answered my questions about the inspiration for her book, her writing experiences, and one of the ways God has touched her life. Thank you so much, Myra, for joining us to talk about your newest inspiration romance novel!
SHERIDA: How did you get the glimmer of the idea for A Rose So Fair?
MYRA: The idea first began to form a few years ago as I was finishing up my Till We Meet Again series. The editor I had been working with expressed interest in a Depression-era series, so I started brainstorming. Already familiar with the Arkansas setting, I began there. While perusing research materials, I soon found myself homing in on the hardships farmers endured during the Depression. I began imagining three sisters and what their individual personalities would be, and so the Linwood sisters, the “Flowers of Eden,” began to take shape in my mind. Rose, the youngest, developed her own kind of spunk and determination, and she was certainly both challenging and enjoyable to write about.
SHERIDA: What do you do to keep the sparkle while you are writing?
MYRA: I’ve developed a fairly consistent writing routine. Weekday mornings are set aside for the “busy work” of writing—social media, marketing, recordkeeping, blogging, etc. So after lunch, my mind is freed from obsessing over those kinds of tasks, and I can concentrate on the book. I’ll usually reread the last scene or two from the previous writing session and do minor editing. This gets me back into the flow of the story and helps to sparks ideas for what will happen next. I work in Scrivener, which allows me to pin character photos to a sidebar, and glancing at the images from time to time helps me stay grounded in the characters’ mind and voice.
SHERIDA: Beyond family, friends and your writing career, what jewel of a moment has God placed in your path during your life’s journey that you would share with us?
MYRA: When I think about “jewel” moments, it’s hard to come up with just one, and most of them would include animals and nature. I remember one in particular when my husband and I were enjoying lunch and quiet conversation in our screen porch a few summers ago. Our home is surrounded by trees, and suddenly a barred owl flew in and landed on a branch right outside the porch, not even ten feet away. He sat there staring at us and our two dogs for a long time, almost as if he were trying to decide if Gracie, our 90-pound Lab mix, would be too big to carry off as “lunch.” Since then, we’ve heard many owls hooting in the distance but have never enjoyed another up-close-and-personal encounter like that one. It was very special.
A ROSE SO FAIR by Myra Johnson
ABOUT A ROSE SO FAIR
Plucky Rose Linwood grew up on her grandfather’s Arkansas tenant farm, a life her two older sisters never cared much for. Working alongside her grandpa, though, Rose learned to love the land as much as he did. Now her sisters have married and moved on, Grandpa has gone to his eternal reward, and Rose is determined to make a go of the farm on her own. But crops have been slow to recover since the drought of 1930-31, and the whole country struggles in the grip of the Great Depression. Drifters looking for work or handouts roam the countryside, some of them up to no good, so Rose keeps her trusty Winchester rifle at the ready. Caleb Wieland, Rose’s best friend, isn’t the farmer his late father was, and he’s about to lose his cotton crop to boll weevils. He’d let the farm go and search for work he’s more suited to, except he can’t desert his widowed mother. Besides, he’s been quietly falling in love with Rose since they were in grammar school, and the thought of leaving her behind is too much to bear. He’d give anything to win her heart, but Rose’s stubborn independence is proving as thorny as the flower for which she’s named.
A Rose So Fair is a gripping and heart-touching story!
This book truly brings to life the difficult days of the Great Depression, where daunting problems arose to test people’s fortitude, but also helped reveal the strength of faith and the ability to overcome trials with the help of others.
I admired Rose Linwood with her fierce loyalty to her grandfather’s farm and the dream she shared with him. She singlehandedly struggles to raise a cotton crop in order to satisfy the requirements of the leased property. Caleb Weiland is a great protective and persistent hero. He is torn between his financial responsibilities and his desire to have his love accepted by Rose. Both of them go through extremely difficult situations. I wasn’t sure how their differences and problems could be resolved since they were both such strong people, but after many emotional hills and valleys, the end is beautiful…sweet and satisfying.
I also enjoyed the other members of the family, including the two older sisters whose earlier stories evolve in this third book. Both drifter Quimby and the stray dog, Delano, add to the impact of the book. All the folks of Eden, Arkansas, felt so real.
The romantic tension is sweet, the thread of faith is comforting, and the message is thoughtful. With friends and family, along with trust in God, we are stronger together. I deeply enjoyed this book with its portrayal of life in the 1930’s with love, faith, and strength overcoming difficulties. I highly recommend A Rose So Fair.
Favorite quotes:
“No matter how far away they send me, you’ll always have my heart.”
“God doesn’t want or expect us to carry our burdens alone.”
She said it reminded her nobody’s perfect, and that loving someone takes a whole heap of forgiveness.
*I was given a copy of this book with no requirement to write a positive review. I’m honored to offer my honest opinion of this book.
TEA TREAT
Grandmother’s Sour Cream Pound Cake
In the story, Rose has tea and pound cake served by Mrs.O’Neill. As I mentioned earlier, I heard about the Depression from my grandmother who had a recipe for a sour cream version of pound cake. I’m sharing this with you today. Please help yourself to a couple of slices while I pour you a cup of tea.
Sour Cream Pound Cake
1 cup sugar
1 cup sour cream
1 egg
1 1/4 cups flour
1 tsp. baking soda
Blend sugar, sour cream, and eggs together. Add flour and baking soda and mix. Divide batter into two greased mini-loaf pans. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes.
BIBLE VERSE
And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken. Ecclesiastes 4:12 (KJV)
PRAYER
Dear Lord,
We are grateful for the abilities You have given authors like Myra Johnson. They bless us with their talent, giving us inspiration and hope as we read their words. Please continue to bless Myra Johnson as she writes to reach readers with Your message that strength comes from trusting You and working to uplift others.
We ask this in Jesus’ name, Amen.
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Visit Myra at Myra Johnson’s website and consider signing up for her newsletter. In addition, writers will find craft information and fellowship at the Seekerville website where Myra is one of the amazing Seekers, blessing writers with great encouragement. Visit SEEKERVILLE!
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Thank you for joining us for Tuesday Tea. May your life be filled with the treasured blessing of strength through working together with others.
~~~Sherida
GIVEAWAY
If you’d like to be entered in the giveaway for a Kindle ebook of A Rose So Fair, please make a comment and complete the Rafflecopter entry form. Don’t be concerned if you don’t see your comment immediately. I moderate comments and with my busy schedule, it may take awhile for your comment to appear. Check back next week to see if you are the winner. Thank you!
Sherida Stewart 