Then spake Jesus again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
John 8:12 (KJV)
Don’t we all love the various lights of Christmas…the sparkling tree, the Advent wreath, our outside decorations, sitting by the fireside, candlelight church services? All are reminders of THE LIGHT Christmas brought into our lives. May we bring this loving glow to others during this season of celebration….and always!
And who doesn’t love holiday baking? Well, at least eating the treats is enjoyed by most. I like to bring out the festive recipes to celebrate. Today I’m serving Cherry Christmas Cookies with tea in front of a Santa my mother painted. The nativity was made by my father….both treasured decorations.
I pray you walk in the LIGHT as we celebrate Christmas, taking time to treasure moments with family and friends this holiday season….and maybe sample a couple more cookies!
Moose! I’m grateful for God’s glorious creation and the ability to visit special places!
O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever.
1 Chronicles 16:34 (KJV)
I have so many thoughts of gratefulness right now. Some are tiny whispers of peace, and some are so enormous that my heart is overflowing with joy. During November and looking forward to the celebration of our Savior’s birth, I tend to reflect on the past year, and fortunately, I feel completely blessed. Family, friends, fellowship….all close to my heart.
One adventure I’m grateful to have experienced during this past year is a backpacking trip with my husband to Lake Hessie in the High Unitas Wilderness of Utah. Over 50 years ago, this location was one of my first backpacking experiences. While we lived in Wyoming many years ago, we hiked back to the lake a few times.
But our recent August return was after an absence of nearly twenty-five years. We noted a few changes. Much larger trailhead parking lot. Many more hikers on the trail. And other groups were camping at the quiet lake. We did remembered the trail fairly well as it followed a rushing river, then climbed a long uphill section before arriving at our camping spot. The lake is still beautiful. And we saw moose….as we always do at this memorable place.
I hope these few photos of our adventure give you a moment of peaceful enjoyment viewing His majesty.
After a storm came through right after arriving at our campsite, it was lovely to see beautiful Lake Hessie sparkling in the sun.Our back country campsite.We made it! Lake Hessie, High Unitas Wilderness, Utah Thankful to see the blue sky after a storm of rain and sleet on our hike back to the trailhead.
November book recommendations
CHRISTMAS FOREST AMBUSH by Kerry Johnson
Christmas Forest Ambush by Kerry Johnson
And speaking of hiking in the mountains, if you enjoy romantic suspense, author Kerry Johnson’s newest book, Christmas Forest Ambush, should be on your Santa wish list. With a thrilling escape through the wilderness, ranger Noah Holt and social worker Lucy Taylor face many challenges as they strive to protect the child in her care. This action-on-every-page story offers examples of perseverance, forgiveness and trust.
HOLIDAY MENACE : a novella collection by ten popular inspirational authors
Holiday Menace-a collection of romantic suspense novellas
If you’d like a selection of romantic suspense novellas, Holiday Menace may be just what you’re looking for. Ten popular Christian authors each write different stories of inspiration with holiday themes. I found the variety of characters and settings provided good seasonal reading.
LIGHTS, CAMERA, CHRISTMAS TOWN! A sweet novella collection by eight romance authors
This novella collection is on top of my soon-to-be-read list. I’m sure another visit to Christmas Town will be delightful, full of sparkle and holiday joy. If you like sweet, uplifting contemporary romance, I hope you find this surprise on your Kindle or Kindle app before Christmas morning.
For more information about this collection, go to author Tanya Agler’s website….plus check out her recent release which is another great book for the holiday season, Snowbound with the Rodeo Star. https://tanyaagler.com
Thank you for stopping by my blog. May we all be thankful for our many blessings as we prepare for the celebration of our Savior’s birth. I pray your season is filled with love, joy and peace.
Sherida
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And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.
Philippians 4:7-9 (KJV)
When we’re faced with difficulties and stressful circumstances, it is good to remember our Lord is with us. We find comfort and peace by reading His word. In Philippians, Paul reminds us to think about positive things, then our hearts and minds will be calmed.
My husband and I hike to enjoy God’s creation. We feel His peace when we are outside, surrounded by nature. We recently did a short one-night backpacking trip in Arizona where we felt the calming presence of our Lord.
Seeing the flowers and critters always brings me joy.
Awesome sunrises and sunsets begin and end our outdoor camping days, reminding us of His glorious creation plan.
OCTOBER BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS
Reading inspirational books helps encourage our walk. When we read stories about perseverance, forgiveness, trust and hope, we understand our challenges and can empathize with others. This month I have some romantic suspense suggestions.
FAIR HAVEN by Laura Conner Kestner
The characters in this contemporary romance captured my heart. Right from the beginning, I was drawn into the action-packed suspense. Author Laura Conner Kestner skillfully hints at the circumstances surrounding famous musical performer Leah Dean and lawman/rancher Joshua Calhoun. My favorite quote: “I understand that God doesn’t promise we won’t have trouble in life. He does promise He’ll be with us as we face those troubles.”
HOLIDAY MENACE : a novella collection by several authors
I’m currently reading this novella collection of ten romantic suspense stories written by popular Christian authors. All unique and fascinating! “Will Christmas be merry and bright?”
Check out this collection by visiting author Terri Weldon’s website. Navigate to the section labeled “Books” to get more information. http://www.terriweldon.com
Thank you for visiting my blog. Before you go, please sample a Cherry Oatmeal cookie. I recently took these treats to church for our fellowship time. Please mention any prayer requests you have in the comments. May we always bring concerns to our Lord. He hears our requests.
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And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.
Ephesians 4:32 (KJV)
Congratulations to Tina Radcliffe on the release of The Cowboy Bargain, the second book in the Lazy M Ranch series! To celebrate, I’m serving the Italian Ricotta Cookies mentioned in the book…..with sprinkles. Please grab a few treats and a beverage of choice while you read about this fun romantic story.
ABOUT THE COWBOY BARGAIN–A Lazy M Ranch Tale
Sam Morgan never thought he’d see his ex-fiancée again after she skipped town days before their wedding. He certainly didn’t expect to find her opening a restaurant on his property–in the building he’d intended to sell his crafts from. This time Olivia’s sticking around, forcing Sam to strike a deal: work together and see whose products sell best. Could their business venture lead to a surprising reunion?
MY REVIEW OF THE COWBOY BARGAIN
I loved The Cowboy Bargain! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
When a book features a second chance romance and a mix of unforgettable characters, I’m in my happy reading place. I enjoyed this positive-outlook story where people work through their issues with compassion for each other, helped along with the support from friends, family and faith. And the charming twist at the end is the icing on the cake!
Handsome ex-rodeo star Sam Morgan discovers Olivia Moretti, the fiancée who left him right before their wedding, has returned to Homestead Pass, Oklahoma. She intends to open a restaurant in the Snodgrass Building, a remodeled space he owns but has other plans for. So a bargain is struck between the two. Tensions build as they struggle to achieve their different dreams….and resolve their attraction to each other.
When I want an uplifting book with humor, engaging characters and sweet romance, I pick up a book by author Tina Radcliffe. She always delivers a touching story to make my heart smile….plus includes yummy treats! Ricotta cookies with sprinkles, anyone? I highly recommend her newest, The Cowboy Bargain!
Favorite quotes:
Dreams didn’t come without a price tag.
“When I sit here, and spend a few minutes in prayer, the chaos flees and calm fills my soul.”
*I was given a copy of this book with no requirement to write a review. I’m pleased to offer my honest opinion.
ABOUT AUTHOR TINA RADCLIFFE
Publishers Weekly bestselling author, Tina Radcliffe has been dreaming and scribbling for years. Originally from Western NY, she left home for a tour of duty with the Army Security Agency stationed in Augsburg, Germany, and ended up in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Her past careers include Certified Oncology R.N. and library cataloger.
Tina is a two-time RWA Golden Heart finalist and a four-time Carol Award finalist and three-time ACFW Mentor of the Year finalist. A 2014 ACFW Carol Award winner and a 2018 ACFW Mentor of the Year winner, Tina is also on the RWA and ACFW Honor Roll of Best-Selling Authors. In 2019 she won the Holt Medallion for Christmas with the Cowboy. A short story writer, she has sold over three dozen short stories to Woman’s World Magazine.
She currently resides in Arizona where she writes fun, heartwarming romance. Sign up for her newsletter to be notified of new releases, sales & giveaways!
Yes, I’ll admit I’m a foodie, so I definitely enjoy books which include food items. Tina Radcliffe’s stories mention some yummy treats. For The Cowboy Bargain, I made Olivia’s Italian Ricotta Cookies. (Tina got this recipe from her cousin.) I decorated with two types of sprinkles…multi-color dots and blue sugar crystals. Both so good! Tina offers many recipes on her blog. Check out her website to view the recipes and find other good information.
Thank you so much for stopping by to celebrate the release of The Cowboy Bargain. I truly appreciate your visit!Please consider sharing this post and subscribing to my blog. Thank you!
With blessings and prayers,
Sherida
*To leave a comment, please click on the date of the post below, scroll down and a reply form will be at the end. Comments are appreciated, but moderation may be quite delayed this month. I apologize, but promise some fun (exciting?) pictures next month. Thank you!
And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory.
Isaiah 6:3 (KJV)
Grand Canyon National Park is definitely a must-see wonder filled with glorious scenes. We’ve hiked there a few times, even doing a small section of the famous Bright Angel Trail which goes from the south rim to the river at the bottom of the canyon and then back up to the northern rim.
Since the temperatures were quite high this visit, we opted for the Hermit’s Rest bus tour one evening and an early morning hike along the Rim Trail to enjoy the awe-inspiring views of the canyon.
We were fortunate to stay in a historic cabin at Bright Angel Lodge which was only a few steps from the canyon.
Bright Angel Lodge was designed by famous Southwest architect, Mary Elizabeth Jane Coulter, in 1935 to resemble a pioneer village.
She also designed this fireplace in the main lodge building to represent the various rock layers of the Grand Canyon.
Nearby, the famous El Tovar Hotel also sits on the canyon rim.
We had dinner in the El Tovar dining room, sitting by a window overlooking the canyon at sunset.
SUMMERTIME TREAT-I wish I could share this dessert with you…. blackberry jalapeño crème brûlée! Cool, creamy fruit-flavored custard with a sweet crunchy topping and just a hint of hot spice. This would make a delicious #teatime treat sometime this during this hot season!
NOW FOR A FEW SUMMER BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS!
(While reading this summer, I’m snacking on cherry/chocolate/pecan cookies and have my water bottle nearby.)
COZY MYSTERY READERS-A Killer Unleashed by Jackie Layton
With a return visit to the low country of Heyward Beach, South Carolina, we find dog walker Andi Grace reluctantly involved with solving another murder….and while planning her upcoming wedding to Marc. A local attorney is found strangled with a pink dog leash. Since he was a disreputable person, there are a number of suspects with motives to get rid of him.
I enjoyed sifting through clues and studying the possible motives along with Andi Grace. Since this is a dog walker series, there are sweet doggy moments throughout. As a landlocked reader, I was interested in the hurricane preparations. Plus it was fun to stop in again at the Daily Java coffee shop to virtually savor the baked treats. Pecan-peach biscotti or blueberry/cherry scones? Yes, please!
If you enjoy fun cozy mysteries, you will be captivated by author Jackie Layton’s A Killer Unleashed and all the books in her Low Country Dog Walker series. WEBSITE-JACKIE LAYTON
INSPIRATIONAL ROMANTIC SUSPENSE READERS–Tracking the Tiny Target by Connie Queen
If you like romantic suspense which takes your breath away, Tracking the Tiny Target is the book for you! Author Connie Queen has written an exciting book which starts with the kidnapping of little boy. His mother, Bristol Delaney, did everything she could get away from her ex-husband and protect her son. However, the child has been snatched from his daycare bus. Deputy sheriff Chandler Murphy and his K-9 Tucker are working to find the abductor. However, Bristol can’t wait for the authorities and goes forward searching for her child on her own, definitely causing tension with the handsome law officer who needs to protect her and solve the crime.
The suspense escalates on each page with dangerous car chases and bullets flying. It’s hard to figure out who the bad guys are and what the motive is for taking little Spencer. Even though the story takes place over only two days, the building of the couple’s romantic relationship is believable. The epilogue provides a perfect ending!
If you enjoy thrilling inspirational suspense, I highly recommend Tracking the Tiny Target by author Connie Queen. WEBSITE-CONNIE QUEEN
INSPIRATIONAL ROMANCE READERS–Preorder The Cowboy Bargain by Tina Radcliffe-available August 22, 2023!
Sam Morgan never thought he’d see his ex-fiancée again after she skipped town days before their wedding. He certainly didn’t expect to find her opening a restaurant on his property-in the building he’d intended to sell his crafts from. This time Olivia’s sticking around, forcing Sam to strike a deal: work together and see whose products sell best. Could their business venture lead to a surprising reunion?
Thank you for joining along on the trip to Grand Canyon National Park. What glorious places have you visited recently to view God’s majesty?I pray you are having a restorative summer with cooling temperatures arriving soon.Please consider subscribing to my blog posts. Thank you!
With blessings and prayers, Sherida
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Riding the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
For a combined anniversary/birthday/Father’s Day adventure, we headed to Durango, Colorado to ride the historic Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, a National Historic Landmark. Completed in 1882, this route, through rugged mountains along the Animas River, is spectacular.
But first the food! After boarding, we were given a souvenir mug and served breakfast muffins, coffee, tea and mimosas.
The Highline section of the track clings to the rock cliff above the gorge below.
The view from the rear platform shows the narrow path the tracks follow.
Nearing the old mining town of Silverton, the rails follow the rushing Animas River, surrounded by the gorgeous San Juan Mountains. This day trip is an amazing experience!
The historic Bross Hotel in Paonia, Colorado
We then drove to Paonia, Colorado for a stay at this charming bed and breakfast which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Opening for business in 1906, the hotel flourished as a lodging place and fine restaurant run by Mrs. Laura Bross. The Paonia community was a busy fruit growing and mining center for many years. Later the building became a boarding house and fell into disrepair. In the mid-1990’s, the building was remodeled to reflect its grand past. Now offering ten rooms with a delicious three course breakfast, travelers can enjoy a step back in time.
Quiet lobby with a view of the staircasePastry and coffeeRefreshing fruit medley Eggs and potatoes
Books to consider for summer reading.
For romantic suspense readers, I suggest Tracking the Tiny Target, by Connie Queen. I’ve just started this book. The opening is fast-paced and the characters engaging. Check out: http://www.conniequeenauthor.com
For romantic comedy readers, I enjoyed Dear Henry, Love Edith, author Becca Kinzer’s debut novel. http://www.beccakinzer.com My review:
A fun, romantic story!
With her debut novel Dear Henry, Love Edith, author Becca Kinzer gives readers an enchanting book with great rom-com style similar to Bethany Turner’s romantic romps. I loved the tangle of identities and how the confusion worked out. The friendships and gentle offers of faith-filled advice added to this very satisfying love story.
Beneath His Silence, by author Hannah Linder, takes the reader back in time to the seaside cliffs of England with a story reminiscent of gothic-style romances I’ve read. With a moody, perhaps misunderstood hero, a dark mansion hiding secrets and a brave woman who searches for the truth, this tale involves a complex mystery and a precious child caught in the midst of a tragedy. The author brings the characters and setting to life in her debut novel as the intrigue intensifies. I enjoyed the developing sweet attraction between Ella Pemberton and Henry Sedgwick. The touches of faith and messages of forgiveness were meaningful, as well as the satisfying ending of the book.
And my short story: Turquoise Remembrance
If you enjoy historical trains and hotels, you may be interested in my award-winning short story,Turquoise Remembrance, a romantic mystery set in New Mexico. http://Amazon.com/dp/B0BYXT5PP3
Thank you for joining me on my traveling adventures!
The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him.
Psalm 28:7 (KJV)
May your summer adventures bring you refreshment, joy and contentment.Please consider subscribing to my blog posts. Thank you!
With blessings and prayers,
Sherida
To leave a comment, please click on the date of the post below, scroll down and a reply form will be at the end. Comments are appreciated and will appear after moderation. I apologize for delays in posting. Thanks!
Welcome to teatime and a travel update featuring Tina Radcliffe’s newest romance, The Baby Inheritance. I’m serving cinnamon rolls!
ABOUT THE BABY INHERITANCE
An infant in need…
But she’s a package deal.
After the tragic loss of his best friends, rancher Drew Morgan willingly accepts guardianship of their six-month-old baby—until he learns big-city professor Sadie Ross has temporary custody as well. Opposites in every way, the pair now has eight weeks together on Drew’s ranch to decide who will become the permanent parent. Could this makeshift family turn into something real…before the deadline is up?
MY REVIEW
A heartwarming winner…full of sweet romance, a sweet baby and sweet treats! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tina Radcliffe is a favorite author, and her newest book, The Baby Inheritance, is another heartwarming winner full of sweet romance, a sweet baby and sweet treats!
Self-sufficient college professor, Dr. Sadie Ross, grew up in foster care and has no family, only focusing on her career. Cowboy Drew Morgan, received an architectural degree, but manages his family’s ranch along with a passel full of brothers and Gramps. When these two opposite personalities must decide on the guardianship of a baby with medical issues, many emotions are involved. Who is the best choice to raise this sweet baby girl?
The struggles of adjusting to their new roles as baby caretakers, on top of wanting to make the best decision for baby Mae, are heart-touching as both Sadie and Drew want to honor their friends’ legacy. The choices are very different, with pros and cons to be considered. Selflessly they work through the process as the attraction between them grows.
The Baby Inheritance is the first book in a new series featuring the brothers of the Lazy M Ranch. Author Tina Radcliffe knows how to write strong family stories with engaging true-to-life characters as she adds fun humor, touches of faith and perfect romance…plus a sprinkling of yummy treats featured on the pages. (Yes, I’m a foodie who loves the mention of virtual goodies!)
If you love heartfelt stories of overcoming challenges with faith and hope, this is a not-to-be-missed set of books! I’m already anticipating the upcoming romances of these cowboy brothers and the women who will come to love them.
Favorite quotes:
“The satisfaction of parenting comes at unexpected and cherished moments. While there are many blessings, there are also many challenges.”
“You have to choose to have a happy ending.”
*I received a copy of this book with no requirement to write a review. I’m delighted to offer my honest opinion.
ABOUT AUTHOR TINA RADCLIFFE
Publishers Weekly bestselling author, Tina Radcliffe has been dreaming and scribbling for years. Originally from Western NY, she left home for a tour of duty with the Army Security Agency stationed in Augsburg, Germany, and ended up in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Her past careers include Certified Oncology R.N. and library cataloger.
Tina is a two-time RWA Golden Heart finalist and a four-time Carol Award finalist and three-time ACFW Mentor of the Year finalist. A 2014 ACFW Carol Award winner and a 2018 ACFW Mentor of the Year winner, Tina is also on the RWA and ACFW Honor Roll of Best-Selling Authors. In 2019 she won the Holt Medallion for Christmas with the Cowboy. A short story writer, she has sold over three dozen short stories to Woman’s World Magazine.
Visit http://www.Tinaradcliffe.com for more information and to sign up for her newsletter. And be sure to check out her blog where she offers many recipes featured in her stories. Yum!
TEATIME TREATS
I’m serving cinnamon rolls from Holiday Inn Express with Bigelow tea. Why? I wasn’t home to do my usual baking. My husband’s hobby is hiking sections of the Continental Divide Trail, a National Scenic Trail which extends 3,000 miles between Mexico and Canada. Though I join him on some parts, I’m usually my husband’s “trail angel” while he does the hiking. I drop him off at a trailhead and pick him up after he’s finished a section.
The hotel we stayed in recently offered cinnamon rolls during breakfast, so this treat made a good photo with the book. I imagine these are not as good as the cinnamon rolls housekeeper Bess Lowder bakes for her crew in The Baby Inheritance, but I look forward to these sweet treats whenever we stay at a Holiday Inn.
The Baby Inheritance features so many delicious goodies. Do check Tina Radcliffe’s blog to find some of the recipes. Now I’m inspired to resume baking in my kitchen to try them all. Ricotta cookies, chocolate sheet cake, chocolate cookies with macadamia nuts and white chips, cannoli, gooseberry pie, maple bars…yes, plenty of yummy projects to keep me busy.
TRAVELING ALONG THE CONTINENTAL DIVIDE TRAIL
My husband and I share a passion for hiking. Being out in God’s amazing creation inspires us. Here are some photos of the recent trails. As in life, sometimes the trail is easy with well-marked signs, sometimes it’s rocky with stumbling hazards to trip you up, and sometimes it’s just a walk along the road.
Thank you for joining me for my teatime review of The Baby Inheritance by Tina Radcliffe. Don’t you just love stories with babies? What is your favorite treat to bake when you want a snack?
With blessings and prayers, Sherida
*Comments are appreciated and will appear after moderation. I apologize for delays in posting.
Looking for an uplifting book? My heart is always touched by reading a book by Myra Johnson. She now has ten romances published by Harlequin’s Love Inspired imprint, along with a number of other novels. Please settle in with a cup of tea (or coffee) while we chat about her newest book, A Steadfast Companion, a sweet romance filled with hope and forgiveness.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Offering a helping hand…
Could give him everything he needs.
Fighting his way back from a troubled past, handyman Angus “Witt” Wittenbauer needs refuge. When dog sanctuary owner Maddie McNeill needs someone to fix her kennel’s roof, it seems like the answer to his prayers, especially when he’s reunited with his long-lost dog, Ranger. His growing friendship with Maddie hints at the promise of something more, but will Witt ever feel deserving of love again?
MY THOUGHTS
A heartwarming story filled with hope! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A Steadfast Companion offers an uplifting story of perseverance through challenging times….and finding love and contentment. The characters really touched my heart. Handyman Whit is a kind and honest man, even after his life was destroyed while trying to do the right thing. Struggling with financial problems, Maddie McNeill is hardworking as she attempts to keep her grandmother’s senior dog rescue sanctuary open. And Ranger is the perfect “man’s best friend” watching out for and supporting his owner. Secondary characters in the community of Elk Valley, Montana, offer small town warmth and friendship.
Besides the engaging story of overcoming difficulties, I enjoyed a romance with older characters. What a great combination this couple makes….each giving selflessly and encouraging the other. The epilogue provides a charming ending to this sweet story. Author Myra Johnson gives us a compelling message of faith and hope in A Steadfast Companion.
Favorite quote: “There’s always hope, my friend. We worship a God of hope. Hope and second chances and forgiveness beyond measure.”
*I was given a copy of this book with no requirement to write a review. I’m delighted to offer my honest opinion.
ABOUT MYRA JOHNSON
After thirteen years away, native Texan and award-winning author Myra Johnson is happy to be back in her home state enjoying bluebonnets and real Texas barbecue.
Myra’s novels have won several honors, including the 2014 Christian Retailing’s Best Award for historical fiction and the 2017 National Excellence in Romance Fiction Award. She is also a two-time finalist for the ACFW Carol Awards and a three-time finalist for the Georgia Romance Writers Maggie Awards. She is currently at work on another contemporary romance for Love Inspired.
Married since 1972, the Johnsons have two beautiful daughters, two godly sons-in-law, and seven amazing grandchildren. The Johnsons share their home with two lovable (and very spoiled) rescue dogs and a snobby cat who thinks he’s the boss of everyone!
Visit her website at http://www.MyraJohnson.com to learn about her other books and signup for her newsletter. Pssst! If you follow her, you may learn of upcoming free book promotions, perhaps one starting February 24. *wink*
MY ONE WORD FOR 2023
I’m a bit behind in posting my word for the year. Where did January go? And February, for that matter? In later posts, I’ll explain this selection and the impact I believe this word will have on my faith in 2023.
HEART
My scripture for the year is:
But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, the word keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience.
Luke 8:15 KJV
Thank you for joining me for this teatime review. Do you have a word of the year you’d like to share? May you find joy and courage in your HEART.
With prayers and blessings,
Sherida
*Comments are appreciated and will appear after moderation. I apologize for delays in posting.
At the closing of this year, don’t we all reflect on the past? My thoughts turned to a challenging time I faced during 2022…..and the grace and love of our Lord….who gave me strength and comfort.
Before leaving on a long awaited trip to Washington state during the summer, I made an appointment to evaluate a dark spot I’d noticed on my scalp. My dermatologist said, “I don’t like the look of this.” She did a biopsy and said the results would take a week. Knowing my worrier tendencies, waiting that long would be hard for me. However, my husband and I decided to go ahead with our planned roadtrip, joining our family for a backpacking trek in North Cascades National Park.
Along the five-day drive, I had plenty of time to consider the possible outcomes of the biopsy. Was there really anything to be concerned about? Could the spot just be frozen off? What if it was indeed melanoma? Before this, I wasn’t quite aware of the seriousness of melanoma cancer. Online research led me down a dark path. Scalp melanomas are the most deadly form of this cancer. Because the mole’s location is obscured by hair and perhaps not visible to an individual, diagnosis is often delayed. Additionally, cancer cells in the head area can spread rapidly. From diagnosis to death can be a short two months.
At first I was quite distraught. Surprisingly to me, it was not because of the possibility of dying. As a Christian, Jesus, my Savior, gave me the gift of eternal life.
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God. ~~ Ephesians 2:8 KJV
However, I was greatly concerned for my loved ones. How would my husband of fifty-one years handle my being gone? Would my grandchildren miss me? Would I even be able to hold my newest grandson who was to be born in a couple of months? I prayed. I prayed continually for the first two days as we drove past the desert landscape of Nevada.
The next day and for the rest of the journey through the mountains of Oregon and Washington, I was filled with peace. (But truthfully, not really joy.) With hope, I would trust His will would be done. Just as the Bible says,
Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost. ~~Romans 15:13 KJV
Right before we arrived to camp with our family, I received a call with the biopsy results. “Good news and bad news,” my doctor said. The bad news: I did have melanoma. The good news: it was very early stage. Since melanomas can be “tricky”, the doctor advised cutting our trip short to have the cancer surgery as soon as possible. Fitting into the surgeon’s schedule, we did a quick backpacking adventure, then headed directly home.
Have I not commanded thee? Be strong and of good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest. ~~Joshua 1:9 KJV
My cancer surgery and later skin graft procedures went well. God gave me the patience to wait calmly until the post surgery test results indicated the tumor was completely removed and no further treatments would be necessary. Our Lord gave me strength through the weeks of healing. My husband took good care of me, while our family and friends supported us both. And with God, we are never alone.
Fortunately, my melanoma was caught early. I’ll adjust to the bald patch and depression on the top of my head and the skin graft scar. I praise God my outcome was a good one. Going forward, I will need to be vigilant to watch for any reoccurrence with complete checks every three months. Since I regularly use sun protection and always wear a hat, I didn’t expect to get a cancer diagnosis. Yes, this can happen to anyone!
NOW FOR MY PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT: If you notice any spot that looks unusual, I encourage you to have a skin cancer check…immediately. Please make this a New Year’s resolution!
If…or when….I face more challenges in the future, I pray I remember these important truths:
1. Because of our faith, we don’t need to fear death. Jesus’ sacrifice paid for our eternal life.
2. Prayer gives us peace during difficult trials.
3. God is always with us….with strength, compassion and love.
May your New Year be filled with God-given peace and joy…..even during challenging times!Have a fantastic, fun and faith-filled 2023!
With prayers and blessings,
Sherida
*Comments are appreciated and will appear after moderation. I apologize for delays in posting.
I’m thrilled to introduce you to the newest book by an amazing author. Known as an award-winning and bestselling contemporary romance author, Tina Radcliffe just released her first Love Inspired Suspense Inspirational Romance novel, Sabotaged Mission.
ABOUT SABOTAGED MISSION
Framed and on the run….With nowhere left to hide
When a failed mission leaves CIA operative MacKenzie “Mac” Sharp injured and her partner presumed dead, going off-grid is the only way to survive. But her old flame, CIA officer Gabe Denton has tracked her down andled a well-connected enemy right to her door. Now with someone trying to frame and kill her, working with Gabe is the only way to clear her name…and stay alive.
TEA TREAT-BANANA BREAD FROM MY MOTHER’S RECIPE
There is a softening moment in the story when Mac thinks of a sweet memory. “She remembered that Gabe once brought her banana bread he’d made. How odd that she should recall that right now.” For our treat today, banana bread seems like the perfect accompaniment with this review. Please help yourself to a slice of my mother’s famous banana bread! I’ll pour you a cup of tea…or coffee if you prefer.
MY REVIEW
Uplifting suspense! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Romance, suspense and faith…..what a combination!
Sabotaged Mission is definitely a page-turner, starting with a heart-pounding explosion at the very beginning and continuing with danger all along the way. As MacKenzie Sharp heals from an injury suffered during a failed CIA mission, her life is continually threatened. While being protected by her former boyfriend, Gabe Denton, a by-the-books CIA operative, she tries to figure out what went wrong with her last assignment. Why is she being framed for the incident? How is Gabe involved in her current situation?
Riveting action and a sweet rekindled romance held my interest as I tried to figure out the bad guy…among many possibilities and a few twists. In other books by Tina Radcliffe, I’ve enjoyed the lively and humorous banter between characters. Fortunately even in a suspense, she delivers her trademark sparkling comments. “Why didn’t you tell me I look like a home-improvement project gone bad?” And watch for the ready bag comment. “I’ve been doing it all wrong. Mine has extra socks.” Yes, I laughed out loud! Gotta love a hero like Gabe!
Sabotaged Mission is highly recommended for readers of romantic suspense who want an uplifting story. The faith elements, which highlight messages of forgiveness and trust, refresh the spirit.
Favorite quotes:
“If you can make it through the hard times, the good times will be all the sweeter.”
“I’ll improvise and pray.”
*I was given a copy of this book with no requirement to write a review. I’m delighted to offer my honest opinion.
ABOUT TINA RADCLIFFE
An award-winning author who writes engaging books, Tina encourages readers and writers through her newsletters and the sharing of writing information. To order her many books and to learn more about this generous and faith-filled author, please visit her website: http://www.tinaradcliffe.com
SCRIPTURE
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
MY MOTHER’S RECIPE FOR BANANA BREAD
1/2 cup shortening
1 cup sugar
1 egg, beaten
3 ripe bananas, mashed
2 cups flour
1 teas. baking soda
1/2 teas. baking powder
pinch of salt
1 teas. vanilla
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Cream sugar and shortening. Add egg and mashed bananas. Mix in dry ingredients until throughly blended. Add vanilla and nuts. Bake in a greased, 9″ x 5″ pan at 350 degrees for about one hour or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. If the bread starts to brown too quickly, put a sheet of foil over the top until finished baking. Let cool before removing from the pan.
Thank you for joining me for banana bread and my review of Sabotaged Mission. I pray your life is going well and you have special plans for the remainder of the summer.
With blessings,
Sherida
*Comments are appreciated and will appear after moderation. I apologize for delays in posting.
Sherida Stewart 
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