This historical fiction has everything to draw you into 1755. There is mystery, romance, faith and history brimming with detail.
Laura Frantz is a master story teller in this time period. She brings her characters to life, with hope and believability. It's a fascinating redemption story.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Revell. All views expressed are my honest opinion.
A couple of weeks ago, I somehow injured my back. So I have not been able to do much. I believe it is an old injury that has flared. I've been taking Aleve and trying to rest.
So that means no sewing or even finishing the Christmas decorating and sending out cards.
But a very sweet friend sent me the most adorable Mug Rug and I wanted to share it with you.
I have been doing some reading and reviewing during my down time. I read a lot of books, both on my Kindle and paper ones. You can go to my Book Reviews at the top of this page and take a look.
Hope your days are Merry and Bright :-)
Who is on your heart today? Prayer is a powerful thing. It connects us to God, one on one. You can pray for big things but God also hears us when we pray for little things. Nothing is too small for God. You can pray for our nation and our leaders. For protection for our children, and those you love.
If someone is on your heart, spend time praying for that person, and then send them a note letting them know. You may be surprised how appreciated it will be.
Many of us give to our family and friends during the holidays. But consider giving to someone who is not the usual recipient of your generosity. Maybe give a token of your appreciation to your local delivery person, mailman, your child's teacher, your Pastor or a banker. Your gift needn't be expensive, but as a little surprise it just lets them know they are appreciated and valued.
"The only true gift is a portion of yourself - a kind look, a heartfelt compliment, a little smile, a word of thanks." - Miss Madeline
Forgiveness is a choice. There is no one I cannot forgive. There is no one I cannot love. I can give thanks in all things.
And above all things have fervent love for one another,
for "love will cover a multitude of sins."
1Peter 4:8
Christmas quilts. who doesn't love them. So many different styles.
This first one was gifted to my daughter in law.
12 Days of Christmas 
How can you bless the people living near you? Maybe you can run an errand for someone who is shut in. Take them a meal or grocery shop for them. Invite someone to your home for coffee or dinner. Find a way to let them know you care. That you would like to get to know them better.
When you do something special for someone, and they do not acknowledge it with a simple Thank you, it could break the bond and prevent you from wanting to do anything for that person again. I know when I have made a quilt for someone, and get no response, not only does it feel like it wasn't worth it, it hurts a little as well.
Saying Thank you has become a lost art. Especially with the younger generation. It only takes a few minutes to write an email, text or a Thank You note. It shows how grateful you are for someone to take the time, thinking of you and giving a gift.
So today, think of someone who has blessed you in some special way and acknowledge them with a Thank You.
DONATE -
During this time of year, we tend to donate to charities. But what if we donated throughout the year? Making a quilt for someone who has lost everything. Or pillowcases for children in the hospital or those going into foster care. Making masks for the mailman or delivery person. Soup kitchens work year round.
There are always needs for monetary donations to worthy charitable causes. It truly is more blessed to give than receive.
"But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing." Matthew 6:3
Friendship is about trust. I've known people who act friendly but in the end they were not a "true" friend. They mostly wanted to see what they could get from you. These were the energy takers. A "true" friend is an energy giver. My late mother in law always said if you want a friend you must show yourself friendly.
"A genuine friendship is a heavenly present. It blesses our hearts because God's love is in it." Evelyn McCurdy
If you see someone who needs a friend, why don't you make the effort and invite them into your life. You will never regret it.
This time of year I love to bake my very favorite cookies.
Holiday Party Cookies -
1 cup shortening
Blend everything together and add 1 1/2 cups M&M's or Chocolate Chips
Bake at 375 degrees for 10 minutes.
Now that they are done, I fill plates and give them to family, friends and neighbors. It's a pass it on gift. Hopefully the recipient will do the same.
PATIENCE -
Sometimes we reserve our kindest actions for strangers, while letting ourselves deal irritably with those who live with us. Today, find a way to bless your spouse, child, parent, sibling, or co-worker. Tell them how much you love and appreciate them. It's a simple thing, taking the time and opportunity to truly listen to what they have to say.
Patience:
1. the quality of being patient, as the bearing of provocation, annoyance, misfortune, or pain, without complaint, loss of temper, irritation, or the like.
TIME -
Our days and hours are precious to us. Once they are gone, you can never get it back. How can you give your time and attention today? Maybe you can call someone who needs a listening ear or silence your phone to give someone your undivided attention. It can make someone feel special or fill a lonely heart.
Time: A daily treasure which attracts many robbers.
CARE - The needy are all around us, and we are often called to care for them. Consider a way you can help today. Ask about how you can volunteer to serve. Whether it's Meals on Wheels, or sharing a ride to a Doctors appointment. Can you volunteer at a local shelter? Give canned goods to a local food pantry or buy a gift card for someone who is struggling.
Today I was impressed to visit my home-bound cousin. I brought her Panera soup, and as I put it in her refrigerator, I noticed it was quite empty. She is a widow and it made me realize there are needs we often don't notice.
Let's make an effort to be discerning in sharing with others. There is always someone who can use a helping hand.
