The Not So Perfect Housewife

Quick & Easy Eggs for Morning Sandwiches

2012-02-26T13:20:00.001-05:00

Why didn’t I think of this sooner??

All you need is one muffin tin

However many eggs you want to make

And your oven set at 350’

Crack one egg per muffin tin and bake till done.

Once cooled I placed these in a plastic container and all we had to do each morning was place one of these on a side of toast or english muffin and toast.

A quick and easy way to have a good breakfast in the morning.

Adding avocado slices, cheese, turkey bacon, ect.. is optional too… but highly suggested for ultimate yummyness.

Manischewitz New Brands ~ Gluten Free & Much More

2012-02-24T09:09:00.001-05:00

I haven’t had the chance to do a ‘foodie’ type of review in a long time, so I was deliciously happy to get the chance to review some of Manischewitz’s new products.

The Manischewitz Company has recently launched a new line of products spanning three categories: Health and Wellness, Comfort Food and Mediterranean Food. The new line features cake mixes, macaroons, confections, matzo, pastas, gefilte fish and much more.

I received a package of their new gluten free pasta, Guiltless Gourmet Crunches, and Mishpacha Coating Crumbs.

The first thing that caught my eye, and the eyes of everyone in the house, were the Guiltless Gourmet Crunches. OH MY!! These little things are SOOO yummy. These all natural-crunches are bite size and packaged in a re-sealable pouch. I received the Toasted Almond Crunch, but there are two other flavors too – Roasted Cashew Crunch and Berries and Cherries Nut Crunch.

These were so delicious that they didn’t even last 24 hours in my house.

We eat a lot of pasta here, so it was easy to try out the Gluten Free Spiral shaped pasta. Made in Israel (which I thought was very cool), this pasta was easy to cook and tasted Yummylicious. I added them to this stir fry the other night and we all really enjoyed the meal.

And since we had a late frost the other night that totally wiped out my tomato plants, I had TONS of Green Tomatoes to fry up. I used the Flavored Coating Crumbs and they turned out amazing. Coasting green tomatoes can be a hard thing to do, but this mixture from the Mishpacha Brand, did a great job.

For more information, stop by www.Manishewitz.com and keep a lookout at your local store for these new products.

*I received these products in exchange for an honest review. All opinions and thoughts are 100% all mine.

Creative Slow-Cooker Meals: Use Two Slow Cookers for Tasty and Easy Dinners [Spiral-Bound] by Cheryl Moeller

2012-02-24T07:47:00.000-05:00

When I first sat down with this cookbook, I had that thought of.. “why didn’t I ever think of that..”

I never thought of getting two of my crock pots going at the same time to make a complete meal. What a simple but great thought.

And Cheryl Moeller has put together a great cookbook that will teach how to do just that.

Packed with great recipes and helpful hints, Cheryl’s Creative Slow – Cooker Meals is one those must have cookbooks to have in your kitchen.

Enjoy the preview! Than get yourself a copy

It is time for a FIRST Wild Card Tour book review! If you wish to join the FIRST blog alliance, just click the button. We are a group of reviewers who tour Christian books. A Wild Card post includes a brief bio of the author and a full chapter from each book toured. The reason it is called a FIRST Wild Card Tour is that you never know if the book will be fiction, non~fiction, for young, or for old...or for somewhere in between! Enjoy your free peek into the book!

You never know when I might play a wild card on you!

Today's Wild Card author is:

Cheryl Moeller

and the book:

Creative Slow-Cooker Meals:
Use Two Slow Cookers for
Tasty and Easy Dinners [Spiral-Bound]

Harvest House Publishers; Spi edition (February 1, 2012)

***Special thanks to Karri James, Marketing Assistant, Harvest House Publishers for sending me a review copy.***

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Cheryl Moeller is a seasoned mother and a standup comic. She is also a syndicated columnist with her own blog (www.momlaughs.blogspot.com) and contributes monthly to several online parent websites. Cheryl has coauthored two books on marriage with her husband and has written for www.mops.org and Marriage Partnership. Cheryl does comedy for parenting classes, MOPS groups, wedding or baby showers, church retreats, women’s conferences, and those in line at the grocery store.

Visit the author's website.

SHORT BOOK DESCRIPTION:

From the celebrated coauthor of The Marriage Miracle comes a new kind of cookbook and a new attitude toward planning meals. With an eye toward the whole menu, not just part of it, columnist Cheryl Moeller teaches cooks to use two crockpots to easily create healthy, homemade dinners.

Don’t worry about your dinner being reduced to a mushy stew. Each of the more than 200 recipes has been taste-tested at Cheryl’s table. Join the Moeller family as you dig into:

Harvest-time Halibut Chowder
Salmon and Gingered Carrots
Mediterranean Rice Pilaf
Indian Chicken Curry
Apricot-Pistachio Bread
Shrimp Creole
Rhubarb Crisp

... and many more! Perfect for the frazzled mom who never has enough time in the day, Creative Slow-Cooker Meals gives readers more time around the table with delicious, healthy, frugal, and easy meals!

Product Details:
List Price: $14.99
Spiral-bound: 272 pages
Publisher: Harvest House Publishers; Spi edition (February 1, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0736944915
ISBN-13: 978-0736944915

AND NOW...THE FIFTH CHAPTER (click on pages to enlarge):

I’m in Love With Kale Chips

2012-02-23T21:03:00.001-05:00

Over at my house blog, Our Florida Bungalow, I recently wrote about thinning out my kale plants and how I was going to try making Kale Chips.

Well, I made them and I have one word.

YUMMYLICIOUS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

It was great to see what a little bit of olive oil, salt, and a dehydrator could do.

The hubster REALLY likes them too.

As I type this.. there’s more in the dehydrator cooking away.

Have you tried Kale Chips?

Freezing Tomatoes

2012-02-20T08:00:00.000-05:00

Last week I was able to reap quite a good harvest of some DELICIOUS tomaters our of our Potager

There wasn’t enough to get all the canning stuff out, so I decided to blanch them and freeze them.

These will be great for soups and sauces later on.

Yum Yum!!

To Love and to Cherish (The Bliss Creek Amish) by Kelly Irvin

2012-02-15T07:57:00.000-05:00

I haven’t had a chance to sit and read this yet, but wanted to let you read about it and check it out for yourself.

Today's Wild Card author is:

Kelly Irvin

and the book:

To Love and to Cherish (The Bliss Creek Amish)

Harvest House Publishers (February 1, 2012)

***Special thanks to Karri James, Marketing Assistant, Harvest House Publishers for sending me a review copy.***

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Kelly Irvin is a Kansas native and has been writing professionally for 25 years. She and her husband, Tim, make their home in Texas. They have two children, three cats, and a tankful of fish. A public relations professional, Kelly is also the author of two romantic suspense novels and writes short stories in her spare time.

Visit the author's website.

SHORT BOOK DESCRIPTION:

In author Kelly Irvin’s first installment in the Bliss Creek Amish series, readers will find a charming, romantic story of how God works even in the darkest moments.

It’s been four years since Carl left. Four years since he left the safety of the small Amish community for the Englisch world. And in four years, Emma’s heart has only begun to heal.

Now, with the unexpected death of her parents, Emma is plunged back into a world of despair and confusion. It’s a confusion only compounded by Carl’s return. She’s supposed to be in love with him...so why can’t she keep her mind off Thomas, the strong, quiet widower who always seems to be underfoot? Could the man she only knew as a friend be the one to help her to heal?

In a world that seems to be changing no matter how tightly she clings to the past, this one woman must see beyond her pain and open her heart to trust once again.

Product Details:
List Price: $13.99

Paperback: 336 pages
Publisher: Harvest House Publishers (February 1, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0736943714
ISBN-13: 978-0736943710

AND NOW...THE FIRST CHAPTER:

The ripe aroma of wet earth filling the air around her, Emma Shirack shifted the basket of tomatoes on her hip and picked up her pace on the dirt road. Her bare feet sank down as the mud oozed between her toes.

The sky was dark overhead as rain clouds gathered in the distance. She should’ve taken the buggy, but hitching the horse seemed a waste of time when it was such a short walk to the produce stand on the highway. “Come on, girls. We have to get these tomatoes to Catherine at the stand quickly or we’re going to get wet walking home.”

Giggles met her urging. She glanced back to see the twins squatting in the middle of the road. Lillie had a small rock in her hand, and the two of them peered at it as if they’d found a great treasure. “Girls! Now!”

She used her schoolteacher voice. At five her sisters hadn’t been to her school yet, but they recognized the authority in her tone. Lillie hopped to her feet, Mary right behind her. “See, it’s a pretty rock, schweschder.”

“Jah, very pretty, but right now we have work to do.” A fat drop of rain plopped right between Emma’s eyes. “As soon as we give the tomatoes to Catherine we’ll go back to the house to start the chicken and dumplings for tonight.”

Mary dropped the rock and clapped her tiny hands. “Dumplings!”

Her braids bouncing in glee, Lillie did the same. “Dumplings!”

Two peas in a pod. Emma smiled and focused on the road ahead. The smile faded. It would be so easy to pretend the twins were hers. But that would be wrong. They were her little sisters. At twenty-three, she alone among her friends had no babies of her own. As Mudder liked to say, “In God’s time, not yours.” Emma clung to that thought.

One more curve and they would be at the highway.

“Schweschder, where do the clouds—”

The shrieking of rubber on asphalt drowned out Lillie’s question. Emma stopped dead in her tracks. The sound of ripping metal tore the air. A horse’s fearful whinnies screamed and echoed against the glowering sky.

Emma’s basket hit the ground. She’d spent enough time at the produce stand to know that sound. She lifted her long skirt, leaped across the spilled tomatoes, and ran. “Girls, go to the side of the road and sit down. Don’t move! I’ll send someone for you!” she shouted, not looking back. “Do as I say!”

The sound of their childish voices whipped in the wind around her. If she was right about that sound she couldn’t let them see what lay ahead. For a few minutes, they were better off on the side of the less-traveled farm road with each other for company.

Oh, God, let me be wrong. Let it be a near miss. Let it be an empty wagon. Let it be…anything but the worst. She stumbled on the rutted road and her heavy dress tangled around her legs. Sweat mingled with splashing raindrops. She fought to breathe in the heavy, humid air.

The road straightened. Emma blinked against a sudden gust of moist, hot wind. Where dirt road met asphalt, where their way met the Englisch way, a buggy sprawled on its side, its metal wheels twisted and broken, the orange triangle-shaped symbol for slow still dangling from the back. A mammoth wheat truck, the black tarp that covered its load flapping in the wind, dwarfed the spindly remains.

Emma jerked to a stop. No air filled her lungs, and black and purple dots danced on the periphery of her vision. She bent, hands on her knees, and gasped for oxygen. Nothing. Her lungs ached. Her heart pounded.

The horse reared and screamed, its nostrils flaring, eyes frozen wide open, frantic with fear. Her sister Catherine had two hands on the reins, trying to calm the flailing horse. “Easy, girl, easy!” Catherine’s words didn’t match the heart-wrenching anguish of her tone as she fumbled with the harness. “Down, girl. It’s over. Easy!”

Catherine. What was she doing here? Their horse. Their gray mare. Emma forced herself to think. Their horse. Her sister. Her gaze dropped to the figure on the dark, wet pavement. No. No. No.

Her neighbor Thomas Brennaman knelt next to a twisted figure that lay motionless. Her brother Luke crouched down next to him, bending over the still, white face. Mudder’s face. Thomas raised his head and his fingers touched Mudder’s throat. Emma swallowed the bile in her throat. She tore her gaze from the picture, her heart pounding.

A man in overalls and a John Deere hat held a cell phone to his ear. “Hurry. Tell them to hurry. They’re hurt bad,” he bellowed. “It’s them Amish people with their buggies. I think I…I think I killed them!”

Killed them. No. Suddenly adrenaline overcame the paralyzing dread. She dashed forward. “Mudder! Daed!”

With all the strength he could muster, Luke staggered to his feet. “Emma, help Catherine with the horse! Let it loose before it hurts someone.”

What was Luke doing here? Why wasn’t he at his shop? She shook off her questions and his command and dropped to her knees next to her mother’s still body.

But Thomas grabbed her arms and pulled her to her feet again. His broad frame served as a formidable barrier between Emma and her mother. “No, Emma. Do as Luke says.”

“I can help her!”

Thomas’s grip kept her from sinking to the ground again. Eyes the color of maple syrup held her tight in their gaze. Thomas, of all people, knew this kind of pain. “Your mudder is gone, Emma.”

Still, she struggled. “Daed!”

Luke’s strangled sob spoke for him. “No, Daed.” She ripped away from Thomas and dashed around the broken buggy. “Please!”

Luke held up two bloody hands, palms flat in the air. Emma slammed to a halt. Her brother’s raw agony radiated from his sweet, plain features. His lips trembled over his long beard. “No. Don’t look. Don’t! I tried, but nothing.” His voice cracked. “He was already gone. Help Catherine. Help her!”

Sirens, their shrill cry an alien sound in this Kansas farmland, cut the air. Emma backed away from Luke. The rough asphalt scraped her feet, but she welcomed pain—the only thing that could penetrate this kind of numbness. She shook her head. “No. No!”

Catherine’s cries forced her back into the moment. Here was something Emma could do, something to ease the horrible, enormous sense that she should be doing something. She ran to Catherine’s side and together they loosened the horse’s restraints and led her to the grassy shoulder of the road. The mare, sides lathered with sweat, snorted and pranced but didn’t bolt. “Easy, girl, easy.” Emma patted her long, graceful neck. “It’s all right.”

Words of comfort murmured where there was none.

Catherine threw herself into Emma’s arms. “It was horrible. I saw the whole thing from the produce stand. Mudder waved to me and smiled as they slowed down to make the turn. Then the truck came…”

Catherine’s voice faded. Her knees buckled.

Emma struggled to hold her up. “I’m sorry. I’m so sorry.”

Her poor sister would have the images burned on her brain forever. Catherine didn’t need to see any more of this horrific scene. Emma grasped her sister’s trembling shoulders. “I need you to do something for me.”

Catherine’s face was white and wet with rain and tears. “I couldn’t help them. I can’t help anyone.”

“Yes, you can.” Emma hugged her and then gave a gentle shove. “Lillie and Mary are down the road. Go get them. Take them home.”

Catherine shook her head and sobbed. “I don’t want to tell them—”

“Don’t. Don’t tell them anything.”

Catherine wiped at her face with a sodden sleeve. “Are you sure you don’t want me to stay with you?”

“Go. Make sure they’re safe. Take them home. Luke and I will come when we can.”

“What about Annie and Mark? They’ll wonder why Mudder hasn’t come home from town yet.”

“Tell them there’s been an accident. Then wait for Luke and me.”

Catherine took off, her stride unsteady at first, then she picked up speed. Faster and faster, as if those horrifying images pursued her.

Emma wanted to run after her, surpass her, and keep on running forever.

“Miss? Miss!”

She forced herself to turn and face the wreckage.

“It was an accident.” The farmer, his craggy, sun-ravaged face wet—whether from rain or tears Emma couldn’t tell—moved closer. He crumpled the green John Deere cap in his huge hand, smoothed it, crumpled it again. “I’m sorry, so sorry. I was in a hurry to get to the mill in Bliss Creek before the rain came. I drove up over the bluff and they were right there. I guess they slowed down to make the turn. I tried to stop. I did, but the truck skidded into them.” He wiped his face with the backs of his stubby fingers. “It was an accident.”

Luke strode toward them, his long legs eating up the road. Her bear-sized brother usually walked the road the way he walked life—in a calm, deliberate manner. Now the world had tilted, taking everything familiar with it. “I know, Mr. Cramer. Don’t worry. We forgive you.”

The man’s mouth gaped wide, exposing crooked teeth. After a second, it closed. “Thank you,” he whispered. “Thank you.”

Emma raised her head to the spattering of raindrops. Maybe they would wash away the anger in her heart. When Carl had left, she’d thought the worst thing that could ever happen to her was done. Over. Now this. Not an intentional abandoning, but an accidental one. In the end, the effect was the same.

Luke was right to forgive. But sometimes right was too hard.

Happy Valentines Day ~ Inspired by Lady & The Tramp

2012-02-14T17:53:00.001-05:00

In honor of Valentine's Day and LADY AND THE TRAMP DIAMOND EDITION on Blu-ray and DVD, Walt Disney Studios has just released a video clip of real dogs re-enacting the famous spaghetti dinner scene in the film.

LADY AND THE TRAMP was named number 95 out of the "100 Greatest Love Stories of All Time" by the American Film Institute in their 100 Years...100 Passions special, as one of only two animated films to appear on the list, along with Disney's Beauty and the Beast (which ranked 34th).

And for the movie version…

The True Story of The Vow

2012-02-13T11:06:00.001-05:00

A few days back I shared with you my review on the book The Vow.

The recently released movie that was inspired by the true story was the Number 1 movie this weekend.

What an amazing testimony they have for not only love but what God’s desire is for the marriage vow and what that truly means.

Enjoy watching their testimony..

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

MICKEY MOUSE CLUBHOUSE: I LOVE MINNIE

2012-02-08T19:41:00.001-05:00

What an ADORABLE new DVD from the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse.

My girls were watching this me and they kept saying… “why didn’t we have cute cartoons like this growing up?”..

They did.. they just were computer generated. LOL.

Disney has done another great job in creating a really cute set of episodes packed with fun and learning.

My favorite was Daisy’s Pet Project. All those cute little animals for her to choose from.

Here’s some great info on the movie and a FREE FUN PACK to download and print out.

On February 7th, join Mickey Mouse and the Clubhouse gang for a special celebration of Minnie Mouse's birthday! Disney's Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: I Heart Minnie is packed with five fun-filled episodes as well as an all new bonus feature “You’re Invited to Minnie’s Birthday Party!” Two Best Friend necklaces are also included with this DVD, a great gift to give to that special someone on Valentine's Day!

Don’t Let The Party Start Without You!

Follow along and Celebrate Minnie’s Birthday

MICKEY MOUSE CLUBHOUSE: I LOVE MINNIE
Available On DVD with Digital Copy, February 7, 2012

The Digital Copy Allows Parents To Easily, Quickly Download The Episodes Onto A Computer

Or Secondary Handheld Device For On-The-Go Access

This coming Valentine and Easter Seasons, The Walt Disney Studios invites everyone to get the party started as the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse gang - Daisy, Mickey, Donald & Goofy - celebrate Minnie Mouse’s birthday. Releasing for the first time on DVD and Digital Copy, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: I LOVE Minnie will be made available for purchase nationwide on February 7, 2012.

Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: I LOVE Minnie has been packaged to include five, fun-filled episodes - each underlining the themes of friendship, teamwork, sharing and problem solving – and an all new bonus feature “You’re Invited to Minnie’s Birthday Party,” as well as two complimentary Best Friend necklaces to keep as mementos and/or to share with a very special someone this Valentine’s Day.

The five classic episodes include:

· Minnie & Daisy’s Flower Shower (All-New, Never-Before-Seen) - The botanical highlight of the year is in trouble, unless Minnie and Daisy can get their flowers to bloom! Together, they board the glove balloon to help coax the clouds to sprinkle much needed rain.

· Daisy’s Dance -Clap your hands and tap your feet! Join Daisy, as she gets ready for one of the most important events of her life––performing in the big talent show!

· Daisy’s Pet Project - The Pet Parade is almost here and Daisy needs to find the perfect animal for which she can love and care. But it’s not as easy as she thinks and soon she has three new friends: an elephant named Bubbles, a giraffe called Longfellow and a bunny called Captain Jumps-a-lot!

· Minnie’s Rainbow - After a brightly colored rainbow appears over the clubhouse, Minnie searches for the pot of gold that’s supposed to be at its end. Along the way, she meets a leprechaun and discovers that not all treasure turns out to be as she expected!

· Minnie’s Birthday – Today is Minnie’s birthday, but the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse friends need to set up her birthday party.

Disc Specifications:

Suggested Retail Prices: $19.99 U.S./$24.99 Canada

Run Time: Approximately 120 minutes

Rated: TV-Y (bonus not rated)

Aspect Ratio: Widescreen (1.78:1)

Sound: Dolby Digital Sound

Languages: English, Spanish, French

In celebration of the February 7th release of Disney's MICKEY MOUSE CLUBHOUSE: I HEART MINNIE on DVD and just in time for Valentine's Day, we have a fun Valentine's Day Fun Pack! These printable Valentine's Day buttons include a Cookie Recipe, Mailbag Craft, and Sharing Cards!

MICKEY MOUSE CLUBHOUSE: I HEART MINNIE - FUN PACK

And here are some fun new clips from the movie:

The Happy Herbivore ~ Cookbook Review

2012-02-07T08:08:00.000-05:00

I grew up in a house FULL of vegetables.

My grandfather always had a killer garden and my mom always preferred the ‘natural’ approach to cooking and health, so eating healthy was just something we did.

As a young teen though, I kept telling myself… “When I get older.. I’m eating all KINDS of junk”

Well, that lasted for a few years until I got married and children of my own. Than I realized that I wanted the best for my family and that included eating right.

Over the years we’ve had a pretty good diet. No artificial colors or flavors, no cereal that changes the milk a different color, organic and all natural when possible, and all that goes along with that.

But recently, as my husband and I have been learning more and more about plant based diets and all the health benefits that go along with that. So I’ve been cooking a lot differently. We’ve been eating A LOT less meat and TONS more veggies, and this has led me to new cookbooks and recipes.

And thanks to BenBella Books, I was able to receive a review copy of The Happy Herbivore Cookbook.

A friend of mine RAVES about this book, so I couldn’t wait to try it out.

Although I’m not a full blow vegan, I am LOVING all the great recipes in this book. I’m also learning SOOO much about vegan cooking and all the wonderful ingredients (beyond veggies) that are out there to cook with.

The Happy Herbivore Cookbook is a really easy cookbook to read and is packed with over 175 recipes.

Lindsay S. Nixon.. aka The Happy Herbivore has put together such a simple but detailed cookbook that anyone can use it. She included things like the “Cheat Sheet” for someone who may be really new to the kitchen and “Troubleshooting Tips” to help you know when you can deter from a recipe and other great kitchen information.

With each recipe comes the dish’s nutritional information, what may be a good complimentary dish to go with it, and friendly icons to let the reader know if the recipe is Quick; Fat Free; Gluten Free; Soy Free; Kid Friendly; Omni-Friendly (meat eaters, vegetarians, and vegans alike enjoyed it); and if there is No Cooking Required.

Split into simple sections, The Happy Herbivore makes it easy to find great recipes:

Breakfast & Brunch
Muffins & Breads
Soups, Dals, and Chili's;
Burgers, Wraps, Tacos & More
Quick One Pot Dinners
Tofu & Vegan Meats
Pasta & Casseroles
Mix & Math
Vegetables, Grains & Beans
Desserts, Dips, Snacks, & Finger Foods
Spreads, Gravies, & Sauces

and much more!

I’m telling you. Even if your not a vegan, this is one great cookbook!

And of course I had try a recipe out right?? Yes sireee…

The other night I made Mock Tuna Salad and totally surprised the hubster.

After making it, I took him a spoonful and told him to try this new ‘tuna salad’. He took that spoonful and a few more and kept saying ‘something’ was different, but NEVER thought it wasn’t Tuna.

When I told him what it was… he was pleasantly surprised.

He LOVED the Mock Tuna Salad. We had it for dinner that night and he used it for sandwiches during the week.

It is DELICIOUS!!!

Mock Tuna Salad (via the Happy Herbivore web site)

Servings: 4

Description:

Who knew mashed up chickpeas could taste just like tuna? It's amazing how this sandwich tastes like the real thing.. except with out the fish, mercury, cholesterol and preservatives... It's the healthiest and tastiest TuNo around!

Ingredients:

Instructions:

In a large mixing bowl, mash chickpeas with a fork until coarse and no whole beans are left. Alternatively, pulse beans in a food processor a few times -- careful not to puree, and transfer to a mixing bowl. Shred celery with a cheese grater or pulse a few times in a food processor. Transfer to the mixing bowl and add remaining ingredients, stirring to combine. Add more vegan mayo and/or kelp as necessary or desired and black pepper to taste.
Use Nasoya's fat-free vegan mayo or use the fat-free homemade mayo recipe in my cookbook. Many low fat mayo's, such as Trader Joes brand, are also accidentally vegan but not fat-free. Chef's notes: 1 small dill pickle may be shredded or minced and used in place of the relish. You can also add a light squirt of lemon juice for added flavor.

Author info: Lindsay S. Nixon is a writer, lawyer, certified personal trainer, and cookbook author. As the creator of the www.happyherbivore.com, Lindsay’s mission is sharing healthy, delicious, vegan food with the world. Her recipes have been featured in many print and online publications, including Vegetarian Times.

An Amish Family Reunion by Mary Ellis

2012-02-07T07:00:00.000-05:00

A sweet and tender story. Something you can curl up and just escape into for awhile.

Enjoy the first chapter..

Today's Wild Card author is:

Mary Ellis

and the book:

An Amish Family Reunion

Harvest House Publishers (February 1, 2012)

***Special thanks to Karri James of Harvest House Publishers for sending me a review copy.***

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Mary Ellis is the author of A Widow's Hope, Never Far from Home, The Way to a Man's Heart, and Sarah's Christmas Miracle. She and her husband live in central Ohio, where they try to live a simpler style of life.

Visit the author's website.

SHORT BOOK DESCRIPTION:

During rumschpringe, Phoebe Miller meets Eli Riehl, who charms her with his exceptional storytelling ability. When he sees her sketches of his tales, Eli encourages her incredible talent, and they decide to write and illustrate a children’s book. But can their love for a good story develop into something that lasts forever?

Product Details:
List Price: $13.99

Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Harvest House Publishers (February 1, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0736944877
ISBN-13: 978-0736944878

AND NOW...THE FIRST CHAPTER:

^{Winesburg, Ohio}

You would think that a person might be able to enjoy some peace and quiet on a Sunday afternoon. After all, it was the Sabbath—a day of rest. Yet Phoebe Miller found herself hiding behind a tree to escape from her family. There were just so many of them. Living next door to Aunt Julia and Uncle Simon guaranteed plenty of drop-in visits, impromptu potluck suppers, and more unsolicited advice than any seventeen-year-old girl needed. It wasn’t that she didn’t love her family, because she certainly did. She simply needed more alone time than most people.

Holding her breath, Phoebe stood stock-still until Uncle Simon headed into the barn in search of her father and Aunt Julia entered the house looking for her mamm. Hannah wasn’t her mother by blood, but she had earned the title during the past twelve years of bandaging scrapes, helping with math homework, and remaining near while Phoebe suffered with the flu on long winter nights. She couldn’t remember her birth mother anymore. She had been only five when an impatient driver in a fast-moving truck decided to pass on a blind curve. It didn’t hurt much anymore. She had Hannah, her daed, and her little brother to love. They were all she needed…except, perhaps, for a little personal solitude.

Phoebe sucked in her gut as ten-year-old Ben ran across the yard, chasing his dog, who was chasing a rubber ball. When the two ducked under a fence into the cornfield, she ran pell-mell in the opposite direction, clutching her box of pencils and sketch pad tightly. She dared not look back for fear some cousin would be waving frantically from the porch. This time she didn’t stop to watch baby lambs nursing from their mothers or to pick a fistful of wild trilliums for her windowsill. On through the sheep pasture she ran until she reached her favorite drawing spot—an ancient stone wall constructed by long ago pioneers of Holmes County. Phoebe doubted these early settlers had been Amish. Not too many Amish men would take the time to painstakingly stack flat rocks just so to form a long fence line, not when dozens of tall trees fell over in the woods each winter that could easily be split into fence rails. And not when stampeding cows spooked by thunder, or marauding sheep needing no reason whatsoever to bolt, could knock the entire wall down within minutes. That was probably why this twenty-yard section was all that remained. But it was all Phoebe needed.

Settling comfortably on a smooth flat stone, she gazed over acres of rolling pasture, lush with thick clover and alive with honeybees and hummingbirds attracted to morning glories. Those climbing vines would entwine her if she sat too long. Beyond this pasture, where mamm’s beloved sheep frolicked and capered like small children, lay alfalfa and cornfields, peach and apple orchards, and stately pines in the distance. Like sentinels, they guarded the property line between their farm and the westerly neighbor, while a pond and lowland bog separated them from Uncle Simon and Aunt Julia to the east.

Phoebe turned to a fresh page in her oversized tablet and selected a charcoal pencil from the box. What would she draw today? Horses nibbling on fresh green grass? Sunlight glinting off dewy treetops at dawn, while the rest of the land remained cloaked in darkness? It was well past midday, but Phoebe had witnessed the dawn enough times to remember what it looked like. Maybe their three-story bank barn with open hayloft doors against a stark backdrop of pristine, unbroken snow? Everyone loved the serenity that could be found within a winter landscape. It didn’t matter that it was May—and an exceptionally warm day at that. A good artist worth her salt possessed a memory capable of retaining visual imagery until the moment she re-created those images on canvas…or in her case, on a sheet of white paper.

“I thought I would find you up here.”

Phoebe practically jumped out of her skin, dropping her sketch pad and spilling her box of colored pencils, charcoals, pastel chalk, and various erasers and sharpeners. “Dad! You nearly gave me a heart attack.” She fell to her knees to retrieve her supplies.

Seth Miller brushed off a spot on the wall and sat down. “You’re too young for a heart attack. And I wasn’t sneaking up on you. I came up the same path along the same fence that you took. You were too absorbed in your masterpiece to see me.”

With her supplies safely returned to the box, she plunked down next to him, clutching the tablet like a shield.

“Nothing is even started yet. I was waiting for the perfect inspiration.” She giggled, knowing how full-blown that sounded.

“Plenty of pretty scenery up here to pick from. It would be hard to narrow it down to just one thing.” Seth bumped his shoulder into hers.

Phoebe sighed. “Jah, but nothing I haven’t sketched a hundred times before.”

Seth shifted his position on the wall to offer his profile. “How about me? Or am I too old and wrinkled?”

She shook her head. “You’re not old, daed, even if you do have some serious crow’s feet.” She bumped his shoulder in return. “But once Uncle Simon caught me doing a portrait of cousin Emma and he scolded me. He said drawing a picture of an Amish person was no different than capturing their likeness with a camera.” Phoebe then lapsed into mimicking Uncle Simon’s stern voice, forgetting the person she was talking to for the moment: “ ‘As a deacon of this district, I won’t have my niece and my daughter committing such a sin.’ ”

Her father merely shrugged. “In that case, you could draw our old buggy horse. Now that he’s been turned out to pasture, we no longer have to worry about capturing his image.”

“I think I’ll stick to wildflowers today.” With her piece of charcoal, she pointed at clumps of purple violets, green mayapples, and elusive jack-in-the-pulpits. “Sam usually has too many flies buzzing around his head to contend with.”

Seth stretched out his long legs. “I saw you hiding from your bruder behind that tree. Has he been pestering you? Is that why you didn’t want him to follow you?” He shielded his face from the sun, deepening the wrinkles webbing his eyes.

“Oh, no. Ben’s been all right. It’s just that he’s ten years old. He doesn’t understand the concept of sitting still or remaining quiet. If I let him come with me down to the river or to the duck pond, he expects me to catch tadpoles or butterflies with him. Once he dropped a two-foot black snake at my feet and told me to draw him.” Phoebe met her father’s gaze. “I let him come along as seldom as possible without hurting his feelings.”

“Mind if I have a look-see?” Without waiting for her answer, Seth pulled the giant pad from her grasp.

For a moment Phoebe felt a familiar wave of panic. Her art was a private collection, showcasing her limited abilities. But the moment quickly passed. She was Phoebe Miller of Winesburg, Ohio, not Michelangelo of Italy. “Sure, why not?” she said, willing herself to relax.

Seth paged through her assortment of sketches, some barely begun and others filled with vibrant color and intricate shading. “These are quite good, daughter.” He paused to study a picture of a small child kneeling in prayer beside a trundle bed. With white walls and dark pine floorboards, and the girl’s black prayer kapp and white pinafore, the drawing was a contrast of light and shadows. One could feel the presence of God in the rays of moonlight streaming through the open window.

She smiled with pleasure, leaning over his arm. “That’s one of my favorites. Not bad for someone with no talent and no training, huh?”

He shook his head. “You have talent—make no mistake about that. And what kind of training does an artist need? Either a person has the gift or they don’t.”

“A few classes would have been nice in school. My teacher’s idea of art was coloring a seasonal mimeographed page. All the trees were green and every autumn leaf either red or gold. Everyone’s picture looked exactly the same.”

Seth dispensed his usual daed look. “Plain folk have no need for individuality as long as you’re known personally to God.” He shut the sketch pad and handed it back to her. “But providing you get your chores done, I see no harm in capturing the beauty of nature in your pictures.” He rose to his feet. “Which of the lilies of the field will my artist choose to draw today?” He waved his hand toward the multitude of flowers and weeds growing along the vine-shrouded wall. “It’s going to be time for the evening meal soon. Don’t be late, Phoebe. You know how your Uncle Simon hates not eating at the appointed hour.” Seth started down the path and did not glance back. He didn’t have to. He knew she wouldn’t be late for supper, or neglect her chores, or forget to say her nightly prayers…because she never did.

Phoebe was a good girl. She had never painted her face with makeup as Emma had during her rumschpringe, nor taken up with an English boy with a fast green truck. Everything was well and good now that Emma and James were married, raising two little boys, and sheep farming in nearby Charm. But when they first converted to New Order, both sets of parents lost more than one good night’s sleep.

And Phoebe had no desire to go into business like her cousin Leah. Running a diner with a business partner as naive as she had almost landed Leah in the county jail. Who knew not collecting sales tax to send to the State of Ohio was a crime? Phoebe shuddered remembering how long it had taken Leah to pay her share of the debt incurred by the diner. Meeting Jonah Byler had been the only good thing to come out of that fiasco. Apparently, he hadn’t been looking for a wife with any business savvy.

No, Phoebe was a good girl. She helped with cooking, cleaning, and laundry, and she did her fair share of gardening, canning, and berry picking despite having no particular fondness for domestic duties. Her mamm and Emma had their beloved sheep, along with the spinning, dyeing, carding, and weaving that came with the woolly creatures. Both women knitted such exquisite sweaters and sofa throws that tourists would pay more than a hundred dollars for one of their creations. Leah had her pie-making cottage industry. Bakeries throughout the county clamored for Leah Byler pies. But Phoebe’s heart had never thrilled over a particularly flaky piecrust or the perfect sweet-tart balance of her fruit filling. Only her art held any joy for her. Painting with acrylics from the Bargain Outlet or sketching people while they were unaware lifted Phoebe’s spirits like nothing else. Not exactly a practical pastime for someone Plain, but what else could she do?

With a sigh she selected a moss-covered log for today’s subject. The dark moist wood, where decay added a blackish-green hue, along with the sun-baked topside, striated and gnarly from wind and weather, would provide a stark background to delicate yellow buttercups in the foreground.

For almost an hour, feeling the warm sun on her face and a cool breeze on her neck, Phoebe surrendered to her creation. Adding a bold slash here or light shading there, the flowers on paper became almost as real as those growing near her feet. She lost herself in her work, unaware of hunger or thirst or the pesky hornet circling her head. Funny how mopping the floor, hanging laundry on the line, or slicing peaches for cobbler couldn’t hold her interest like this. When she was busy with those chores, all she could think about was snitching another cookie or refilling her glass with lemonade.

Finally, as the drawing neared completion, she leaned back with a satisfied sigh. There had to be something she could do with her “gift,” as her parents called it. She’d been out of school for three years, yet she seldom brought to the household income more than a few dollars from selling eggs. She’d once hung up an index card at the grocery store that announced “Artist for Hire” with her name and address at the bottom in block letters. She landed two commissions from the advertisement. One, a local farmer needed an autumn replacement for his produce market sign once peaches, organic lettuce, and berries were long gone. Phoebe created a four-foot by six-foot masterpiece showcasing colorful apples, pumpkins, butternut squash, eggplant, and Indian corn. She tried to turn down the second project. An elderly widow needed someone to actually paint the white picket fence around her vegetable patch. But, of course, her daedmade her take the job. Painting was painting, he declared.

Packing up her supplies, she started down the well-worn path to the rambling farmhouse filled with her parents, brother, aunt, uncle, and cousins. Lately, it felt as though she’d wandered into the wrong house but the residents were too polite to tell her. How could she live surrounded by affectionate and endearing people, yet still feel utterly, completely alone?

Julia stepped down from the buggy gingerly, always a little nervous to see if her legs would hold her. It had been years since her double knee-replacement surgery, yet she remained skeptical about the stainless steel substitute parts.

Simon took her arm to steady her. “Easy does it, fraa. Did you take your pills today?”

“Jah, of course, like I do every day. I’m just stiff from sitting. Run off now and find your brother. With these perfectly fine store-bought knees, we should have walked here. What’s the advantage of living next door to Seth and Hannah if we must drag out the horse and buggy even in perfect weather?” Julia leaned heavily on her husband’s arm despite her assertion that she could have walked half a mile through scrub forest and bog.

“I’m not running anywhere until you’re planted in one of Hannah’s kitchen chairs,” Simon insisted. “And our old gelding needs the exercise more than we do.”

“If Hannah sees you practically carrying me inside, she’ll start feeding me more of her herbal cures.” They paused midway to the house. “Boswellia, bromelain, yucca, turmeric, sea cucumber—do you know what those things taste like?” Julie wrinkled her nose. “I burped the other day, and it tasted like stagnant green pond water.”

“How is it you know what stagnant water tastes like?” Simon clutched her tightly around the waist as they reached the porch.

“I’d rather not say what my sister was like as a teenager.”

“Whatever she gives you to eat or drink, you’ll take without complaint. One of these days Hannah will land on a miracle cure that will have you skipping like a schoolgirl again.”

Julie gulped a deep breath and climbed the steps, clucking her tongue in disapproval. “Miracles from teas and tonics? And you—the district deacon. What’s gotten into you?” She reached for the door frame to steady herself.

“All miracles come from the Lord, but He uses a wide variety of delivery methods.” Simon kissed her cheek. “I’ll see you at supper.”

Julia waited until she stopped panting like a dog before entering her sister’s large, airy kitchen. “Hannah,” she called, finding the room empty.

Hannah Miller bustled into the room looking as fresh and cheery as she had ten years ago. Amazing what the lack of chronic pain did for a person’s appearance and attitude. “You’re alone?” she said, pulling aside the curtain. “Where are your daughters? I prepared way too much glazed ham and potato salad if the rest of your family isn’t coming to eat.” She left the window and carried tall glasses of iced tea to the table.

Julia smiled, lowering herself onto a chair. “Just Simon and myself, but I promise to eat ravenously. Henry will stop over later. He took the open buggy for a ride after spending hours yesterday polishing every inch with leather oil. I think he’s courting some gal, but when I drop subtle hints, he turns beet red and clams up.”

Hannah sat on the opposite side of the long table—a table large enough to seat the entire Miller clan. “You, subtle?” She winked one luminous green eye. “Julia, you’re as subtle as a blind bull in a spring pasture. Poor Henry, being the only one left at home. What about Leah? She’s not coming either?” Hannah laced her fingers over her still flat belly. “I was itching for one of her peach pies.”

“No fresh peaches yet. You would know that if you left your loom and spinning wheel once in a while. And all her canned peaches are gone. Anyway, she and Jonah are staying home today, as are Emma, James, and their two boys.” Julia leaned back in her chair. “I saw Ben chasing that dog of his, but where’s Phoebe?” She craned her neck to scan the living room. “Let me guess. She’s upstairs immortalizing the intricacies of a spider in her web instead of whacking it down with a broom.”

Hannah took a long swallow of tea. “Too warm upstairs in her room. She headed to the high pasture with her tablet. Seth walked up to check on her, although she can’t get lost or into any trouble up there. Still, he would prefer she stay within eyeshot of the house at all times.”

“I remember when you used to hide from people. Sometimes in the woods, sometimes down by the river when you first moved here from Lancaster. Especially whenever my Simon crawled up your neck.”

Hannah snorted dismissively. “I wasn’t hiding from your Simon. I was plotting how to snare Seth into my web, just like Phoebe’s pet spider. It wasn’t easy, but I ran away from him so often he finally caught me.”

The two enjoyed a chuckle. “The two Kline sisters marrying the two Miller brothers. It sure made things handy, no? Maybe that’s what your Phoebe does when she wanders off by herself. She’s plotting how to capture the eye of some hapless young man at the next social event. Isn’t she seventeen?”

“Almost eighteen. But no, she won’t go to singings. She says they make her nervous. She’ll only attend work frolics and quilting parties. Not too many eligible young men attend sewing bees.” Hannah finished her tea and rose to refill both glasses. “She says she has nothing in common with boys her age.”

“How would she know if she never steps out from behind your skirt? Has she ever talked to boys other than to say ‘Pass me the catsup?’ ” The words escaped Julia’s mouth before she could clamp her jaw shut. She mentally winced at her bad habit of overstepping the role of big sister. Running roughshod over folks—that’s how Simon referred to it.

“Phoebe’s still young. She has plenty of time. People aren’t marrying so early anymore, not like when we were that age.” Hannah tucked a stray lock of flaxen hair under her prayer kapp.

Julia rubbed her fingers one at a time. “She shouldn’t spend so much time alone. It’s not healthy.”

Hannah shot Julia a look that meant You’re treading dangerously close to thin ice. “I realize with both of your daughters married that you have no one to needle and advise. You can always go back to me to keep your talons razor sharp.”

“Ach, I would, but I threw my hands up years ago and declared you a hopeless case. You listen to advice as well as your sheep.” Julia stared out the window where the lilac bush was in full bloom without seeing the profusion of flowers. “At least your daughter has come a long way since you started courting Seth. How long did Phoebe go without speaking a single word—eight months, a year?”

Hannah paused to consider. “Almost a year and a half. Constance’s death pulled the rug out from under her feet. Seth was trying to cope with a household without his wife, along with his own grief. He was too busy and too distracted to notice a little girl in serious pain.” She furrowed her forehead as memories of some very difficult months returned. “Seth wasn’t spending enough time with her because he had suddenly twice as much on his plate. But how can you explain that to a five-year-old?”

“Then Phoebe watched all her daed’s attention being lavished on you.” Julia chanced a look at her sister.

Hannah scoffed. “‘Lavish’ would hardly describe Seth’s interest in me.”

“True enough. He erected quite a wall around himself while you patiently worked with Phoebe. Eventually, she came around and started talking again, but she’s still a very quiet child. No one would believe she was a Miller if she wasn’t the spitting image of Seth. They would have figured Constance discovered a foundling in the parking lot of Walmart and brought her home.”

Hannah’s smile looked bittersweet. “Seth didn’t like being told how to raise his daughter, did he, but eventually he ran out of choices and took my suggestions.” She shook off the reminiscence like a dog in the rain. “Now he dotes on the girl, as much as she’ll allow him, to the point of wrapping her in a cocoon. Pity the poor boys that come around when Phoebe starts courting. Seth will probably stand guard in the front room with his squirrel rifle across his chest.”

“I didn’t know Seth ever went hunting.” Julia lifted one eyebrow.

“He doesn’t. He inherited that relic of a firearm from his daed. Just don’t tell the young men that gun hasn’t been fired in twenty years.” They enjoyed a good belly laugh while Hannah started pulling side dishes from the refrigerator.

To feel useful, Julia pushed herself up from the table to get plates, glasses, and silverware. Sitting too long stiffened her arthritic joints, hastening the day when she would need more replacement parts. By the time Hannah carried the platter of sliced ham to the table, in trailed Seth, Simon, Ben, and Henry. Julia blinked at her son’s early appearance. “You’re back from your ride already, son?”

Henry’s ears reddened while he washed his hands at the sink. “I saw what I set out to see.” He slunk to a chair like a stray barn cat.

Phoebe slipped into the house then, joining them just in time for silent prayer. The moment everyone lifted their bowed heads and began passing bowls of food, Henry turned to his cousin. “After we eat, Phoebe, would you like to see my new filly?” Despite the fact he was a grown man at twenty-one, he blushed whenever he addressed females, even family members.

“Sure,” she agreed, popping a gherkin into her mouth. “What’s wrong with this one?”

“Hardly anything. I picked her up at the Sugarcreek auction for a song. She had a mild limp, so other buyers passed her over.” He drained half his glass of milk.

Simon set down his fork, dabbing his beard with his napkin. “You bought a lame horse, son? What are we going to do with her if she’s not fit for the buggy or pulling a plow?”

Julia and Hannah exchanged a glance. Father and son had been down this road enough times to wear grooves in the pavement.

“She’s not lame, Dad. A slight limp, that’s all. And she’s much improved since I started applying liniment and wrapping the leg.” Henry built a sandwich with home-baked rye bread, several slices of ham, and hot pepper relish.

Simon grunted, picking up his coffee cup. “Could she at least pull a pony cart to earn her keep?”

“Eventually. Maybe.” Henry bit into the stack, rendering further speech impossible.

“Look at it this way—she is a filly and could turn into a fine brood mare someday.” Seth interjected his two cents’ worth into the conversation.

Simon’s brows beetled above the bridge of his nose, focusing on his brother. “We don’t have room for the horses we own now. They’re already two to a stall, and my horse pasture is grazed down to nubs by July. I’ll have to start feeding them oats and timothy year-round.”

“Maybe I’ll lease you some of our pastureland. Hannah’s flock is down this year. If you’re willing to pay me a fair price, that is.” Seth bit the inside of his cheek to keep from laughing.

“I think it’s a fine thing you’re doing, nephew,” said Hannah, slicing pies at the counter. “Rescuing balky horses from the auction kill pen and then retraining them for useful lives is a noble calling.”

Julia watched Hannah aim her dazzling smile at Simon. After all these years, she still loved getting her brother-in-law’s goat.

“Jah, Hannah,” said Simon. “But the idea was to resell the horses at a profit and make a little income while he’s doing his good deed.”

“I have sold some,” said Henry, after swallowing another mouthful of sandwich. “Just last month I sold that three-year-old Morgan to the bishop’s son. He couldn’t believe the change that had come over that horse with two years of training.”

Simon rolled his eyes, pushing away his plate. “Two years for a Morgan to let someone put a saddle on his back?” His muttering was barely audible, knowing he was outnumbered by animal lovers in his brother’s home. “Fine, nursemaid your new filly. Just don’t turn my barn into the Miller Horse Sanctuary.”

Phoebe straightened up in her chair. Small and shy, it was easy to forget she was in the room. “That has a nice ring to it.” She flashed Henry a grin. “Would you like me to make you a sign to put down by the road? I could paint a stallion and mare, with a young filly in the foreground. I’m pretty good at drawing horses.” She winked one warm cocoa-brown eye at him.

Some of Julia’s tea slipped down her windpipe and then flew right out her nose as she gagged and coughed. The rest of the family laughed more moderately, except for her beloved husband, Simon. He simply stared at his favorite niece as though she’d grown a tail.

“Danki for your generous offer, Phoebe, but that won’t be necessary,” he said in his most patient voice. “Everyone in the county already knows the location of Henry’s save-a-horse society.” Simon reached for the largest slice of pie among the dessert plates.

Julia wiped her face and then left the table to blow her nose, trying to compose herself. She knew she needed to better control her drinking habits because she had a feeling it would be one long, hot summer.

How Does Something So Gross Looking…

2012-02-06T15:29:00.001-05:00

Taste so good?

But it does..

It really does taste quiet delicious.

On the mornings I get out to run and some times even for work, I make one of these yummy smoothies.

Fresh spinach from the garden

Banana’s , Strawberries, Blueberries

100% Fruit juice

and sometimes I throw a little something different in there.. like peanut butter or tofu

Put it in the Bullet and Voila.. yummy, good for your tummy goodness..

I just don’t look at it while I’m drinking it.. LOL.

How about you?

Are you a smoothie drinker? What are some of your favorite concoctions?

I’d love to get some more ideas

Green Works Product Review

2012-02-04T08:00:00.000-05:00

When it comes to cleaning.. the simpler the better is my motto.

I don’t like using cleaning products that contain TONS of yucky chemicals and I REALLY don’t like ones that you need a gas mask to use.

So I was excited to be contacted by Clorax’s Green Works division, who asked me to take part in a Green Works Product review. I quickly signed up once I read all the great info on their products.

Green Works Cleaning Wipes - It is 100% compostable, so you can clean up after your family and guests, and feel good while you’re at it!
Green Works Laundry Detergent - The dermatologist-tested formula is gentle on skin and formulated for both standard and high-efficiency (HE) washers, so you can be sure that your laundry will be fresh and clean….load, after load, after load
Green Works Bathroom Cleaner - The bathroom cleaner is a non-toxic way to power through soap scum, rust and hard water stains — without harsh chemical fumes and residue.
Green Works All Purpose Cleaner - It is safe to use on multiple surfaces throughout the kitchen and bathroom, including counters, appliances, stainless steel, sealed granite, chrome, cook top hoods, sinks and toilets.

It was perfect timing when I received my package.

I was just getting ready to start cleaning for a bible study I have here at my house on the following day, so I quickly put the Green Works products to the test.

First, I grabbed the Compostable Cleaning Wipes- to be honest, I’ve never really been a big fan of these ‘wipe’ things. I mean, if you have a paper towel and some cleaning products, your good to go. But I was PLEASANTLY surprised at how well these wipes worked and how simple it was to just wipe up the counters in the kitchen and than just throw them away... Easy Peasy..

Next, I headed into the bathroom with the Bathroom Cleaner – I was REALLY hoping I would be able to clean the bathroom without having to wear some kind of mask to help with the smell AND if it DIDN’T smell.. I wondered if it would work..

I didn’t and it did.

I didn’t have to wear a mask. It has somewhat of a smell, but nothing over powering. AND YES it did clean. Our older home has an older bathtub and that thing can be hard to get clean. Green Works Bathroom Cleaner did the job.. and it did it well.

After Bible study was over the next day, I got the laundry going. I REALLY like the nice smell of the Green Works Laundry Detergent and I especially like how clean my clothes get without all the unnecessary chemicals.

The All Purpose Cleaner does a great job on all my everyday jobs – wiping down the fridge, the counters and it even does a good job on the stove.

I was very impressed with the Green Works products. With an average percentage of 97% naturally derived ingredients… these cleaners get a big THUMBS UP from this Not So Perfect Housewife.

Check out their Facebook page and Web site for more information and COUPONS!!

A Little Swag Love

2012-02-03T16:55:00.001-05:00

Swagbucks is releasing a new set of Collector's Bills just in time for Valentine's Day - 5 romantic reminders worth different amounts of reward points. Collect them all and get 14 Bonus Swag Bucks to use towards your free stuff! The bills come out at midnight PT on Monday and will be available only through Search until 11:59pm PT on Valentine's Day. Good luck!

Are you Swagging? I’ve been using Swagbucks for over a year now and it’s great. I’ve been able to save up enough points to get a Southwest gift card and some other great stuff.

It’s easy and its free! You earn points by doing what you already do.. searching for stuff on the internet.

Check it out for yourself.

So I Have This Cleaning Schedule….

2012-02-02T08:00:00.000-05:00

Yea, I really do..

And it’s pretty darn cute and organized too..

The only bad thing is..

I don’t really DO the cleaning schedule…

You see.. I LOVE to plan..

I love to research, find great ideas, print them out, make cute binders, and than…

Well… it falls flat.

This Monthly Cleaning Schedule helps remind me of all the ‘little’ cleaning jobs that I need to do beyond the regulars so I don’t get behind.

Like.. wipe down the baseboards, dust the books shelves, dust the return vents, clean out the microwave..

You know the ones..

The ones you don’t think about till someone either points it out to you or you notice just a few minutes before a big party..

Yea.. those are the ones I’m talking about…

So, I DO have this great schedule.. it’s printed out all colorful like and it’s even in a cute little frame..

But for the life of me I just can’t get motivated to do most of the ‘little jobs'..

and there my friends.. is the life of The Not So Perfect Housewife…

Lady and The Tramp Diamond Edition ~ February 7th

2012-02-02T07:54:00.000-05:00

This movie throws me back to being curled up on the couch with two little girls..

Popcorn popped, slippers and PJ’s on, and LOTS of giggles abounding.

Lady and The Tramp was one of many Disney movies that my girls and I LOVED to watch over and over.

And now it’s all new on the soon to be released Diamond Edition!

Not only do we get to curl up and watch the movie, but we get the chance to see some of the great Bonus Features the Blu-ray includes:

Blu-ray Bonus:

Disney Second Screen: Inside Walt’s Story Meetings
Audio Commentary: Inside Walt’s Story Meetings
Diane Disney Miller: Remembering Dad

I LOVE seeing all these behind the scenes things, especially the Walt history

Three Never-Before-Seen Deleted Scenes
Never Recorded Song: “I’m Free as the Breeze”

Classic DVD Bonus:

Lady’s Pedigree: The Making of Lady and the Tramp
Finding Lady: The Art of the Storyboard
Original 1943 Storyboard Version of the Film
PuppyPedia: Going to the Dogs
“The Siamese Cat Song,” Finding a Voice for the Cats
“Bella Notte” Music Video
Trailers
Excerpts from “Disneyland” TV Shows

Do you remember seeing Lady and the Tramp for the first time or the first time your children saw it?

Just makes you smile thinking about it .. doesn’t it!!

Here’s some more info on the movie and some fun goodies to play with.

"One of the great classics…more glorious than ever in dazzling Disney Blu‐ray High Definition!"
‐‐Clay Smith, The Insider

Synopsis: A classic love story unfolds in the best Disney tradition as a lovely young pedigreed cocker spaniel named Lady, who lives a pampered life, finds herself falling romantically for Tramp, an amorous street‐smart pooch without prospects. Although they have fun together on several dates, including a sentimental spaghetti dinner by moonlight at Tony’s restaurant, their relationship is strained not only by Lady’s loyalty to her human family and their newborn baby, but by Tramp’s devil‐may‐care attitude that eventually gets Lady in trouble and tossed into the dog pound. However, good‐hearted Tramp redeems himself by saving the baby from potential harm and thus wins Lady’s love and the affection of her human family.

Share this timeless Disney Classic with your family as Walt Disney’s beloved classic, Lady and the Tramp, finally releases from the Disney Vault for the first time ever on Blu‐ray.

This heartwarming tale now charms a new generation of families and fans with its exquisite animation and unforgettable songs in one of the greatest love stories of all time. Featuring high definition sound and immersive bonus features your family can enjoy together, Lady and the Tramp Diamond Edition is a must own addition to your Disney collection.

Voice Talent:

Barbara Luddy (Sleeping Beauty, 101 Dalmatians) as Lady
Larry Roberts (Theatre background with Circle Theatre in Los Angeles) as Tramp
Peggy Lee (The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, American Beauty) as Darling, Si, Am & Peg
Bill Thompson (Peter Pan, Alice In Wonderland) as Jock, Joe, Bulldog, Dachsie & the Policeman
Bill Baucom (TV’s “The Life and Legend of Wyatt Earp,” Judge Roy Bean) as Trusty
Stan Freberg (Stuart Little, Looney Tunes: Back In Action) as Beaver
Lee Millar (TV’s “I Love Lucy,” The George and Gracie Allen Show) as Jim Dear & the Dogcatcher
Producer: Walt Disney
Directors: Clyde Geronimi (Alice In Wonderland, Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty)
Wilfred Jackson (Snow White, Pinocchio, Dumbo)
Hamilton Luske (Alice In Wonderland, Cinderella, Pinocchio)

DVD Bonus:

Diane Disney Miller: Remembering Dad
PuppyPedia: Going to the Dogs
Digital Bonus: Diane Disney Miller: Remembering Dad
Three Never‐Before‐Seen Deleted Scenes
PuppyPedia: Going to the Dogs

Street Dates: Blu‐ray & High Definition Digital = February 7, 2012
Rated: G (bonus materials not rated)
Feature Run Time: Approximately 76 minutes

I Feel So Sophisticated…

2012-02-01T08:20:00.000-05:00

My sweet mother in-law gave me this adorable tea set for Christmas.

Not a “little girl” tea set though..

No, this one is a big girl, sophisticated, French country type of tea set..

And I’m LOVING it!!

I’ve never used a big girls tea set and it’s so much fun!!

With a little hot water and my favorite tea.. I’m set for two or three wonderfully delicious cups of tea.

I love it!!

I can fix myself a pot, bring it into my office, and I’m good for a few hours.

Did I say I love it… because I really do..

And it’s so darn cute to look at.

How about you? Do you have a grown up tea set that you use?

Everything Romance: A Celebration of Love for Couples by David Bordon and Tom Winters

2012-02-01T06:05:00.000-05:00

Every married couple should have this adorable, beautiful book on their book shelves.

And what a GREAT wedding gift this would make

A celebration of Love for couples. Beautifully written and grounded in the Word of God.

Today's Wild Card authors are:

David Bordon and Tom Winters

and the book:

Everything Romance: A Celebration of Love for Couples

WaterBrook Press (December 20, 2011)

***Special thanks to Ashley Boyer, Publicist, WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group of for sending me a review copy.***

ABOUT THE AUTHORS:

David Bordon and Tom Winters are partners in Bordon-Winters, LLC, a book concept and packaging company that produces successful books and gift products. Among their previous titles are the popular “101 Things You Should Do” series. This volume joins another one of their beautiful gift books, Everything Christmas.

SHORT BOOK DESCRIPTION:

Everything Romance is a gift book overflowing with heartwarming ideas to keep that special relationship fresh and exciting. Whether you’re a newlywed or celebrating 40 years of wedded bliss, this book offers a treasury of ways to capture your love’s heart daily. Love letters, inexpensive date night suggestions, tantalizing recipes, conversation starters, and inspiring love stories will all help you romance the love of your life in creative and meaningful ways!

Product Details:
List Price: $14.99

Hardcover: 288 pages
Publisher: WaterBrook Press (December 20, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0307729311
ISBN-13: 978-0307729316

AND NOW...THE FIRST CHAPTER:

A Marriage Blessing

Most gracious God, we give You thanks for Your tender love in sending Jesus Christ to come among us, to be born of a human mother, and to make the way of the cross to be the way of life.

We thank You, also, for consecrating the union of man and woman in His name. By the power of Your Holy Spirit, pour out the abundance of Your blessing upon this man and this woman. Defend them from every enemy. Lead them into all peace. Let their love for each other be a seal upon their hearts, a mantle about their shoulders, and a crown upon their foreheads. Bless them in their work and in their companionship; in their sleeping and in their waking; in their joys and in their sorrows; in their life and in their death. Finally, in Your mercy, bring them to that table where Your saints feast forever in Your heavenly home; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who with You and the Holy Spirit, lives and reigns, one God, forever and ever.

Amen.
(from The Book of Common Prayer)

PERFECT PAIR PIZZA-PITA SNACKS

2 whole-wheat pita breads
4 teaspoons basil pesto
1 cup cottage cheese
2 tablespoons Roma tomatoes, chopped
2 teaspoons fresh basil, chopped
Fresh Parmesan cheese (optional)

Toast pita breads until they are crispy and firm. Spread half of the pesto on each pita. Next, spread half of the cottage
cheese on each pita. Top with chopped tomato and fresh basil. If desired, sprinkle with fresh grated parmesan cheese. Slice each pita into two or four wedges and enjoy!

Romance Trivia

A team of medical experts in Virginia contends that you’re more likely to catch the common cold virus by shaking hands than by kissing.

Excerpted from Everything Romance by David Bordon and Thomas J. Winters Copyright © 2011 by David Bordon and Thomas J. Winters. Excerpted by permission of WaterBrook Press, a division of Random House, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.

Roasted Chickpeas Snack ~ Spicy the First Time Around

2012-01-31T08:12:00.000-05:00

Ok.

I was a little leery of this snack when I first saw it, but after a thumbs up from the hubster.. I think it turned out OK.

I decided to make because we are really trying to venture out more in our ‘eating healthy’ options and this looked like it would be a good way to get some fiber into our diet.

For my first recipe I used some New Orleans type seasoning. The hubster likes his things on the spicy side.. so there ya go..

These are REALLY simple to make.

1 can Chickpeas, drained

1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil

choice of seasoning

Toss the beans with the oil and than with seasoning.

Preheat oven to 350’ F

Place beans on cookie sheet and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes.

Keep an eye out though.. you don’t want them to burn.

Once done. Pull out, let cool and than enjoy.

These weren’t as crunchy like nuts (inside was still a little ‘beany’), but definitely a new snack to try.

The next ones I’m going to try are going to be some Honey Roasted ones for me. I’m more of the ‘sweet’ eater in our family.

Joining back in with Tempt My Tummy Tuesday

Homemade Dryer Sheet ~ This REALLY Works

2012-01-30T10:34:00.001-05:00

I LOVE this!!

It’s so simple to do and I really do think it lasts through a whole lot more loads of laundry than a box of regular dryer sheets.

What you need:

A bottle of your favorite fabric softener

A clean rag or cloth

What you do:

Soak the cloth in your favorite fabric softener

Wring out any extra liquid

Hang the cloth out to dry completely

Once dry, use just like you would a regular dryer cloth.

Just keep tossing it in with your wet clothes.

You’ll have great smelling, soft clothes each and every time

I haven’t totally kept track of how many loads I can get out of each one, but I’m estimating over 30.

And when I notice that it needs to be changed, I wash the cloth – dry in the dryer and than start over with a new soak.

Love Out Loud: 365 Devotions for Loving God, Loving Yourself, and Loving Others by Joyce Meyer

2012-01-27T07:11:00.000-05:00

If you’re looking for a good devotional to follow throughout the year, Love Out Loud would be my suggestion.

Short, but meaning devotions that make you think outside the box a little. Encouraging you to love yourself and most importantly others.

Check it out..

Today's Wild Card author is:

Joyce Meyer

and the book:

Love Out Loud: 365 Devotions for Loving God, Loving Yourself, and Loving Others

FaithWords (November 2, 2011)

***Special thanks to Sarah Reck, Web Publicist | FaithWords & Center Street | Hachette Book Group, for sending me a review copy.***

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Joyce Meyer is one of the world's leading practical Bible teachers. A #1 New York Times bestselling author, she has written more than eighty inspirational books, including The Secret to True Happiness, 100 Ways to Simplify Your Life, the entire Battlefield of the Mind family of books, her first venture into fiction with The Penny, and many others. She has also released thousands of audio teachings, as well as a complete video library. Joyce’s Enjoying Everyday Life radio and television programs are broadcast around the world, and she travels extensively conducting conferences. Joyce and her husband, Dave, are the parents of four grown children and make their home in St. Louis, Missouri.

Visit the author's website. Visit the author's twitter. Visit the author's Facebook.

SHORT BOOK DESCRIPTION:

Jesus said, "You must love the Lord your God with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself." - Luke10:27

If one had to choose a single verse in the Bible that is a formula for successful living, this would be the one to live by, says Joyce Meyer: love God, yourself and others - in that order.

Many Christians get mixed up about love. They know they should love God and others, but many do not understand that loving oneself is one-third of God's equation. They mistakenly think of it as selfishness or self-aggrandizement.

Joyce Meyer believes that this misconception is one of the greatest pitfalls in the Christian journey. Loving oneself in a balanced, healthy manner is essential in order to have healthy relationships with God, ourselves and others.

Drawing upon her previous work and teaching series as well as original devotions, the author of Power Thoughts examines the three loves that we've been commanded to exhibit.

Product Details:

List Price: $16.99

Hardcover: 384 pages
Publisher: FaithWords (November 2, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0446538477
ISBN-13: 978-0446538473

AND NOW...Press the Browse Button to Read THE FIRST CHAPTER:

OctoberBaby ~ Coming to Theaters March 23rd

2012-01-26T08:00:00.000-05:00

Oh, this looks like it’s going to be a must see..

‘OCTOBER BABY’ SETS MARCH PREMIERE

Award-Winning Directors Jon and Andrew Erwin Make

Feature Film Debut with Life-Affirming Coming-of-Age Story

OctoberBabyMovie.net

NASHVILLE – Jan. 11, 2012 – From award-winning directors Jon and Andrew Erwin comes OCTOBER BABY, a groundbreaking, life-affirming movie premiering in theaters nationwide March 23, 2012. Provident Films—known for its association with such hit faith movies as COURAGEOUS and FIREPROOF—and Samuel Goldwyn Films (distributor of such hit faith films as FIREPROOF, AMAZING GRACE and FACING THE GIANTS among others) have signed on to market and distribute.

A production of the Erwin Brothers and American Family Studios, OCTOBER BABY weaves a dramatic, romantic, humorous story of one young woman’s search for the truth after a life-changing discovery rocks her world.

“OCTOBER BABY is the story of 19-year-old Hannah, who finds out she is adopted and is the survivor of an attempted abortion,” said co-director and co-writer Jon Erwin. “So, she goes on a road trip to find answers, locate her birth mother and, ultimately, discover how powerful forgiveness can be.”

OCTOBER BABY offers viewers an enjoyable, entertaining, intensely human film about friends hitting the road together and finding more than they bargained for: adventure, romance, truth . . . and the power to forgive. But, the film is more than that—it tells the story of one young woman’s journey based on hundreds of stories of abortion survivors. OCTOBER BABY honestly and evenhandedly invites audiences to explore their own views of life’s value and the importance of their choices.

“Like all good films, OCTOBER BABY entertains, encourages and challenges audiences,” said Provident Films Senior Vice President Ben Howard. “Long after leaving the theater, viewers will continue conversations that OCTOBER BABY ignites.”

OCTOBER BABY marks the feature film debut of the Erwin Brothers, multiple Dove Award winners for music videos featuring hit contemporary Christian artists such as Casting Crowns, Michael W. Smith and Francesca Battistelli. Jon Erwin and Theresa Preston co-wrote the film.

“We’re thrilled to introduce these exciting, young filmmakers to audiences nationwide,” said Meyer Gottlieb, president of Samuel Goldwyn Films. “OCTOBER BABY is one more example of Samuel Goldwyn Films’ commitment to releasing films with a dedicated audience. That, coupled with getting to collaborate with Provident once again, made this a homerun for us.”

Starring newcomer Rachel Hendrix as Hannah, OCTOBER BABY features John Schneider (Smallville, The Dukes of Hazzard) and Jasmine Guy (A Different World), along with Jason Burkey and American Idol finalist Chris Sligh in his feature film debut.

In support of the film’s life-affirming theme, the producers of OCTOBER BABY have assigned 10 percent of the profits of the film to the Every Life is Beautiful Fund. The money will be distributed to frontline organizations helping women face crisis pregnancies, life-affirming adoption agencies and those caring for orphans.

“We feel like it’s very important to use OCTOBER BABY as an opportunity to serve, give back and save lives,” Jon Erwin said. “That’s what we want the Every Life Is Beautiful Fund to be about.”

OCTOBER BABY has already drawn wide praise from advance screenings.

Mark Hall of Casting Crowns

“I am now an OCTOBER BABY activist. This is something I have to be a part of.”

Gianna Jessen, abortion survivor, national speaker

“I laughed so hard, cried so hard, and healed. Thank you!”

The Dove Foundation

“We urge you to see this movie. It might just change your life.”

One mother’s story shared on Facebook

“My 14-year-old daughter watched the movie with me . . . at the end, my daughter said, ‘Mom, OCTOBER BABY is my favorite movie ever.’ OCTOBER BABY gave me an opportunity to discuss many issues with her—forgiveness, healing, abortion and more. Thank you, thank you, thank you again!”

To learn more, visit: OctoberBabyMovie.net

About Provident Films ProvidentFilms.org

Provident Films, a division of Provident Music Group, develops, produces and markets faith-based films. Nashville-based Provident Music Group, a division of Sony Music Entertainment, has been one of the world’s leading Christian entertainment companies for more than three decades.

About Samuel Goldwyn Films SamuelGoldwynFilms.com

Samuel Goldwyn Films is a major, independently owned and operated motion-picture company. The company develops, produces and distributes innovative feature films and documentaries, working with world renowned and emerging writers and filmmakers. Goldwyn is consistently committed to filmed entertainment offering original voices in uniquely told stories.

A beautiful behind the scene glimpse

The Vow by Kim & Krickitt Carpenter

2012-01-25T16:35:00.000-05:00

Ok, to be perfectly honest here, when I first saw this trailer, I really wanted to see this movie just because Channing Tatum was in it.

But now that I’ve gotten the chance to read the book The Vow, The True Events That Inspired The Movie, I want to see this movie for a WHOLE BUNCH of different reasons.

From BH Publishing Group:

The Vow traces actual events from the 1990s, when Kim and Krickitt met, fell in love and married. Just 10 weeks later, the couple survived a terrible car wreck with Krickitt awakening in the hospital married to a stranger. The accident had claimed 18 months of Krickitt’s memories, including all recollection of Kim.

With Kim committed to his marriage vows and Krickitt maintaining her strong Christian faith even if recent memories were gone, the couple began the long road to a rebuilt relationship, with a second wedding ceremony and renewal of their vows almost three years later. It gave new meaning to the words “in sickness and in health.”

“You make a promise before God with your wedding vows,” Krickitt said. “You have to take that seriously.”

The Carpenter’s story generated international interest at the time and resulted in the initial release of their book. Now reissued with an additional chapter and new 16-page photo insert, The Vow tells the true and more complete story than the film it inspired.

My Review/Thoughts

Oh wow! What a TRUE TRUE TRUE story of love and devotion.

But not just the normal, what movies are made of, type of gushy ‘feeling’, kind of love..

No. This is the FAITH based, God fearing, I Took a Vow before God kind of love.

My copy of The Vow (Thank you Lovell-Fairchild) is covered in dog ears. Reading the true story of Kim and Krickitt has truly blessed my life and given me a whole new outlook on what ‘vows’ truly mean.

I was inspired by Krickitts deep faith from the get go. How, in the beginning of their budding relationship, she unshamedly and bodlys asks Kim if he is a Christian and explains to him why this is important to her. And than, even after going through a horrible accident, her faith is never lost. Memories yes, but not her faith.

Most of the book is written by and from Kim’s point of view. And what a view that is.

His unending love and devotion to his wife during such a trying time. His determination to keep his Vow and his willingness to create new memories with his wife who doesn’t remember him.

I read this book in 2 days.

I actually could have read it in one, but I really needed to sleep.

Although The Vow, the movie, looks like it’s going to be good..

I HIGHLY suggest getting a copy of the TRUE story and be inspired by two people who truly allowed God to be at the center of their marriage.

** Thank you to Lovell-Fairchild for the review copy of The Vow. All opinions and thoughts are 100% all mine**

Valentine’s Day Mantel Bling

2012-01-25T13:10:00.001-05:00

Wow.. it has been a VERY long time since I’ve sat down and actually blogged.

I’ll write more later on what I’ve been doing lately, but I wanted to show you the Valentine decorations we have going on.

I don’t usually decorate for Valentines day, but after taking down all the Christmas decorations, I quickly realized how bare and empty the mantel looked.

So with some great ideas from Pinterest, I was able to put this together for under $20!! I bought most of what I needed at the Dollar Store!! Yea Baby…

The subway art printables I found by Googling

The one on the right is from Today’s Fabulous Finds

The Faith, Hope, and Love is from A Step in the Journey

The LOVE votives I made using Dollar Store votives and Elmer’s Painters Pens

I made the X’s and O’s by just playing around with Microsoft Word.

I than took some simple twine and laced it through some paper doilies hearts for the banner.

And the Valentines Day plate was made using a plain white plate from the dollar store, clear labels and my computer.

I had A LOT of fun putting this together!

Love Blooms in Winter

2012-01-19T09:19:00.000-05:00

Sometimes it’s fun to escape the issues that surround us and just disappear into a good book.

Love Blooms in Winter is one of those books that takes you back to 1892 in North Dakota and makes you feel like your part of the story.

I really enjoyed following Mae Wilkey’s story as she patiently waits for the man she has been ‘dating’ for over 6 years to make a commitment, but she also patiently waits on an elderly women who seems to have no family to help take care of her.

But than Mae sees a ray of hope. A ‘kin’ name and address of someone who may be able to come help her. She prayed for someone to come care for this woman, but had no idea he would change her life too.

Love Blooms in Winter will keep you turning the pages.

Enjoy the first chapter.

Today's Wild Card author is:

Lori Copeland

and the book:

Love Blooms in Winter (The Dakota Diaries)

Harvest House Publishers (January 1, 2012)

***Special thanks to Karri | Marketing Assistant |Harvest House Publishers for sending me a review copy.***

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Lori Copeland is the author of more than 90 titles, both historical and contemporary fiction. With more than 3 million copies of her books in print, she has developed a loyal following among her rapidly growing fans in the inspirational market. She has been honored with the Romantic Times Reviewer's Choice Award, The Holt Medallion, and Walden Books' Best Seller award. In 2000, Lori was inducted into the Missouri Writers Hall of Fame. She lives in the beautiful Ozarks with her husband, Lance, and their three children and five grandchildren.

Visit the author's website.

SHORT BOOK DESCRIPTION:

This new romance from bestselling author Lori Copeland portrays God’s miraculous provision when none seems possible. An engagement, a runaway train, and a town of quirky, loveable people make for more adventure than Tom Curtis is expecting. But it is amazing what can bloom in winter with God in charge.

1892—Mae Wilkey’s sweet next-door neighbor, Pauline, is suffering from old age and dementia and desperately needs family to come help her. But Pauline can’t recall having kin remaining. Mae searches through her desk and finds a name—Tom Curtis, who may just be the answer to their prayers.

Tom can’t remember an old aunt named Pauline, but if she thinks he’s a long-lost nephew, he very well may be. After two desperate letters from Mae, he decides to pay a visit. An engagement, a runaway train, and a town of quirky, loveable people make for more of an adventure than Tom is expecting. But it is amazing what can bloom in winter when God is in charge of things.

Product Details:

List Price: $13.99
Paperback: 304 pages
Publisher: Harvest House Publishers (January 1, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0736930191
ISBN-13: 978-0736930192

AND NOW...THE FIRST CHAPTER:

Dwadlo, North Dakota, 1892

The winter of ’92 is gonna go down as one of the worst Dwadlo’s ever seen,” Hal Murphy grumbled as he dumped the sack of flour he got for his wife on the store counter. “Mark my words.” He turned toward Mae Wilkey, the petite postmistress, who was stuffing mail in wooden slots.

“Spring can’t come soon enough for me.” She stepped back, straightening the row of letters and flyers. She didn’t have to record Hal’s prediction; it was the same every year. “I’d rather plant flowers than shovel snow any day of the week.”

“Yes, ma’am.” Hal nodded to the store owner, Dale Smith, who stood five foot seven inches with a rounded belly and salt-and-pepper hair swept to a wide front bang. “Add a couple of those dill pickles, will you?” Hal watched as Dale went over to the barrel and fished around inside, coming up with two fat pickles.

“That’ll fix me up.” Hal turned his attention back to the mail cage, his eyes fixed on the lovely sight. “Can’t understand why you’re still single, Mae. You’re as pretty as a raindrop on a lily pad.” He sniffed the air. “And you smell as good.”

Smiling, Mae moved from the letter boxes to the cash box. Icy weather may have delayed the train this morning, but she still had to count money and record the day’s inventory. “Now, Hal, you know I’d marry you in a wink if you weren’t already taken.” Hal and Clara had been married forty-two years, but Mae’s usual comeback never failed to put a sparkle in the farmer’s eye. Truth be, she put a smile on every man’s face, but she wasn’t often aware of the flattering looks she received. Her heart belonged to Jake Mallory, Dwadlo’s up-and-coming attorney.

Hal nodded. “I know. All the good ones are taken, aren’t they?”

She nodded. “Every single one. Especially in Dwadlo.”

The little prairie town was formed when the Chicago & North Western Railroad came through five years ago. Where abundant grass, wild flowers, and waterfalls had once flourished, hundreds of miles of steel rail crisscrossed the land, making way for big, black steam engines that hauled folks and supplies. Before the railroad came through, only three homesteads had dotted the rugged Dakota Territory: Mae’s family’s, Hal and Clara’s, and Pauline Wilson’s.

But in ’87 life changed, and formerly platted sites became bustling towns. Pine Grove and Branch Springs followed, and Dwadlo suddenly thrived with immigrants, opportunists, and adventure-seeking folks staking claims out West. A new world opened when the Dakota Boom started.

Hal’s gaze focused on Mae’s left hand. “Jake still hasn’t popped the question?”

Mae sighed. Hal was a pleasant sort, but she really wished the townspeople would occupy their thoughts with something other than her and Jake’s pending engagement. True, they had been courting for six years and Jake still hadn’t proposed, but she was confident he would. He’d said so, and he was a man of his word—though every holiday, when a ring would have been an appropriate gift, that special token of his intentions failed to materialize. Mae had more lockets than any one woman could wear, but Jake apparently thought that she could always use another one. What she could really use was his hand in marriage. The bloom was swiftly fading from her youth, and it would be nice if her younger brother, Jeremy, had a man’s presence in his life.

“Be patient, Hal. He’s busy trying to establish a business.”

“Good lands. How long does it take a man to open a law office?”

“Apparently six years and counting.” She didn’t like the uncertainty but she understood it, even if the town’s population didn’t. She had a good life, what with work, church, and the occasional social. Jake accompanied her to all public events, came over two or three times a week, and never failed to extend a hand when she needed something. It was almost as though they were already married.

“The man’s a fool,” Hal declared. “He’d better slap a ring on that finger before someone else comes along and does it for him.”

“Not likely in Dwadlo,” Mae mused. The town itself was made up of less than a hundred residents, but other folks lived in the surrounding areas and did their banking and shopping here. Main Street consisted of the General Store, Smith’s Grain and Feed, the livery, the mortuary, the town hall and jail (which was almost always empty), Doc Swede’s office, Rosie’s Café, and an empty building that had once housed the saloon. Mae hadn’t spotted a sign on any business yet advertising “Husbands,” but she was certain her patience would eventually win out.

With a final smile Hal moved off to pay for his goods. Mae hummed a little as she put the money box in the safe. Looking out the window, she noticed a stiff November wind snapping the red canvas awning that sheltered the store’s porch. Across the square, a large gazebo absorbed the battering wind. The usually active gathering place was now empty under a gray sky. On summer nights music played, and the smell of popcorn and roasted peanuts filled the air. Today the structure looked as though it were bracing for another winter storm. Sighing, Mae realized she already longed for green grass, blooming flowers, and warm breezes.

After Hal left Mae finished up the last of the chores and then reached for her warm wool cape. She usually enjoyed the short walk home from work, but today she was tired—and her feet hurt because of the new boots she’d purchased from the Montgomery Ward catalog. On the page they had looked comfortable with their high tops and polished leather, but on her feet they felt like a vise.

Slipping the cape’s hood over her hair, she said goodbye to Dale and then paused when her hand touched the doorknob. “Oh, dear. I really do need to check on Pauline again.”

“How’s she doing?” The store owner paused and leaned on his broom. “I noticed she hasn’t been in church recently.”

Dale always reminded Mae of an owl perching on a tree limb, his big, dark blue eyes swiveling here and there. He might not talk a body’s leg off, but he kept up on town issues. She admired the quiet little man for what he did for the community and respected the way he preached to the congregation on Sundays.

How was Pauline doing? Mae worried the question over in her mind. Pauline lived alone, and she shouldn’t. The elderly woman was Mae’s neighbor, and she checked on her daily, but Pauline was steadily losing ground.

“She’s getting more and more fragile, I’m afraid. Dale, have you ever heard Pauline speak of kin?”

The small man didn’t take even a moment to ponder the question. “Never heard her mention a single word about family of any kind.”

“Hmm…me neither. But surely she must have some.” Someone who should be here, in Dwadlo, looking after the frail soul. Mae didn’t resent the extra work, but the post office and her brother kept her busy, and she really didn’t have the right to make important decisions regarding the elderly woman’s rapidly failing health.

Striding back to the bread rack, she picked up a fresh loaf. Dale had private rooms at the back of the store where he made his home, and he was often up before dawn baking bread, pies, and cakes for the community. Most folks in town baked their own goods, but there were a few, widowers and such, who depended on Dale’s culinary skills. By this hour of the day the goods were usually gone, but a few remained. Placing a cherry pie in her basket as well, she called, “Add these things to my account, please, Dale. And pray for Pauline too.”

Nodding, he continued sweeping, methodically running the stiff broomcorn bristles across the warped wood floor.

The numbing wind hit Mae full force when she stepped off the porch. Her hood flew off her head and an icy gust of air snatched away her breath. Putting down her basket, she retied the hood before setting off for the brief walk home. Dwadlo was laid out in a rather strange pattern, a point everyone agreed on. Businesses and homes were built close together, partly as shelter from the howling prairie winds and partly because there wasn’t much forethought given to town planning. Residents’ homes sat not a hundred feet from the store. The whole community encompassed less than five acres.

Halfway to her house, snowflakes began swirling in the air. Huddling deeper into her wrap, Mae concentrated on the path as the flakes grew bigger.

She quickly covered the short distance to Pauline’s. The dwelling was little more than a front room, tiny kitchen, and bedroom, but she was a small woman. Pauline pinned her yellow-white hair in a tight knot at the base of her skull, and she didn’t have a tooth in her head. She chewed snuff, which she freely admitted was an awful habit, but Mae had never heard her speak of giving it up.

Her faded blue eyes were as round as buttons, and no matter what kind of day she was having, it was always a new one to her, filled with wonders. Her mind wasn’t what it used to be. She had good and bad days, but mostly days when her moods changed as swift as summer lightning. She could be talking about tomatoes in the garden patch when suddenly she would be discussing how to spin wool.

Mae noted a soft wisp of smoke curling up from the chimney and smiled. Pauline had remembered to feed the fire this afternoon, so this was a good day.

Unlatching the gate, she followed the path to the front porch. In summertime the white railings hung heavy with red roses, and the scent of honeysuckle filled the air. This afternoon the wind howled across the barren flower beds Pauline carefully nurtured during warmer weather. Often she planted okra where petunias should be, but she enjoyed puttering in the soil and the earth loved her. She brought fresh tomatoes, corn, and beans to the store during spring and summer, and pumpkins and squash lined the railings in the fall.

In earlier days Pauline’s quilts were known throughout the area. She and her quilting group had made quite a name for themselves when Dwadlo first became a town. Four women excelled in the craft. One had lived in Pine Grove, and two others came from as far away as Branch Springs once a month to break bread together and stitch quilts. But one by one the women had died off, leaving Pauline to sew alone in her narrowing world.

Stomping her boots on the porch, Mae said under her breath, “I don’t mind winter, Lord, but could we perhaps have a little less of it?” The only answer was the wind whipping her garments. Tapping lightly on the door, she called, “Pauline?”

Mae stepped back and waited to hear the shuffle of feet. Pauline used to answer the door in less than twenty seconds. It took longer now. Mae made a fist with her gloved hand and banged a little harder. The wind howled around the cottage eaves. She closed her eyes and prayed that Jeremy had remembered to stack sufficient firewood beside the kitchen door. The boy was generally responsible, and she thanked God every day that she had him to lean on. He had been injured by forceps during birth, which left him with special needs. He was a very happy fourteen-year-old with the reasoning power of a child of nine.

A full minute passed. Mae frowned and tried the doorknob. Pauline couldn’t hear herself yell in a churn, but she might also be asleep. The door opened easily, and Mae peeked inside the small living quarters. She saw that a fire burned low in the woodstove, and Pauline’s rocking chair sat empty.

Stepping inside, she closed the door and called again. “Pauline? It’s Mae!”

The ticking of the mantle clock was the only sound that met her ears.

“Pauline?” She lowered her hood and walked through the living room. She paused in the kitchen doorway.

“Oh, Pauline!”