last day to enter...

This is the last day to enter my giveaways celebrating three years of bloggy happiness. Spread the word...the more the merrier. The drawings will be tomorrow afternoon. Just click on the links below and leave a comment. Good Luck!

Day One ~ in the kitchen

Day Two ~ homemaking skills

Day Three ~ celebrating great books

mary's book basket ~ "emily's chance" by sharon gillenwater

Emily's Chance by Sharon Gillenwater is a heartwarming, sweet and emotionally satisfying romance set in West Texas. Have I ever told you I have a soft spot for cowboys? Well Chance Callahan is a hero after my own heart. He is handsome and has a heart for Jesus. He also wants to woo the lovely but skittish Emily Rose. This is Christian romance at it's best. Ms. Gillenwater has hit another one out of the park.

Product Description:
Emily Rose may be in the tiny West Texas town of Callahan Crossing for the moment, but it's just a rung on her ladder to success. Her work at the Callahan Crossing historical society will look good on her ever-growing resume as she attempts to break into the prestigious world of a big city museum curator. Little does she know cowboy and contractor Chance Callahan has decided that he can convince her to stay--both with the town and with him. As he helps Emily restore the town's history after a devastating fire, he also helps her uncover her own hidden worth and the value of love. The second book in THE CALLAHANS OF TEXAS series, Emily's Chance is a heartwarming story of letting love take the lead. Readers will come away wishing they lived in Callahan Crossing.

I knew I was in for a treat when I saw a back cover quote from one of my favorite writers: 

"Filled with Texas charm and the healing power of love."

---#1 New York Times bestselling author Debbie Macomber

She was absolutely right. This book was filled with the wonderful charm of a small West Texas town and all the quirky characters who live there. The theme of healing love is strong throughout the book, especially when it comes to Emily and Chances story. It was a wonderful read that filled a glorious Sunday afternoon. If your looking for a strong hero and a story that will tug at your heartstrings, Emily's Chance is the one for you.

Happy Reading, 

Mary

sweet sundays ~ lemon white chocolate macadamia nut cookies

tower of goodness!

These cookies are one of Jerry's favorites. They are creamy and crunchy with a hint of lemon. I adapted the recipe to contain white chocolate chips because you know everything is better with chocolate!

Celebrate the Feast!

Mary

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Lemon White Chocolate Macadamia Cookies

adapted from Mrs. Fields 

Ingredients:

2 c All-purpose flour

1/2 ts Baking soda

1/4 ts Salt

1 c Light brown sugar, packed

1/2 c White sugar

1/2 c Salted butter, softened

4 oz Cream cheese, softened

1 Large egg
zest of one lemon

2 ts Pure lemon extract

1 1/2 c Whole macadamia nuts
1 cup white chocolate chips

Preparation:

1. Preheat oven to 300 degrees F. 

2. In a medium bowl combine flour, soda and salt. Mix well with wire whisk and set aside. 

3. In a large bowl blend sugars well with an electric mixer set at medium speed. Add the butter and cream cheese, and mix to form a smooth paste. Add the egg and lemon extract, and beat at medium speed until light and soft. Scrape down sides of bowl occasionally. 

4. Add the flour mixture and macadamia nuts. Blend at low speed just until combined. Do not overmix. 

5. Drop by rounded tablespoons onto ungreased cookie sheets, 2 inches apart. 

6. Bake 23 to 25 minutes. Immediately transfer cookies with spatula to a cool flat surface.

mary's book basket ~ "don't look back" by lynette eason

First, let me apologize to DH at Revell and Lynnette Eason for being a week late with this review. I am always extremely careful with my review calendar but for some reason marked this one for this week instead of last. I blame it on the hot flashes!

When you travel to author Lynette Eason's website  the first thing you see id her header which reads "Suspense with a twist. Welcome to the edge of your seat." She is not kidding! In the second volume of her Woman of Justice series, "Don't Look Back" has you on the edge of your seat from the very beginning. There are so many twists and turns you cannot put this book down. Ms. Eason draws you into the intrigue with some fabulous characters. Jamie and Dakota's story is spellbinding. You are cheering for them from page one.

Product Description:
Twelve years ago, forensic anthropologist Jamie Cash survived a brutal kidnapping, torture, and rape. After years of therapy, she has made a life for herself--though one that is haunted by memories of her terrifying past. She finally lets herself get close to a man, FBI agent Dakota Richards, when signs start appearing that point to one frightening fact--her attacker is back and ready to finish the job he started all those year ago. Can she escape his grasp a second time? And will she ever be able to let down her guard enough to find true love? Filled with heart-stopping suspense, gritty realism, and a touch of romance, Don't Look Back is the second book in the WOMEN OF JUSTICE series. Readers will be hooked from the beginning, finding that once you are in Lynette Eason's world, you're trapped until you turn the very last page. 


The key to any great thriller/mystery is strong pacing and the emotional landscape. Ms. Eason is a master at both. The story moves quickly even though it is rich with forensic details important to solving the mystery. It reminds me of the show "Bones" adding to it a spiritual journey for both Dakota and Jamie. The themes of healing and redemption are laced throughout the high drama. The payoff in the end was worth the wait!

So if your looking for a smart, thrilling, emotional ride go buy this book! You will not be disappointed.

Happy Reading!
Mary


***Available October 2010 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

i heart cooking clubs ~ giada's farfalle w/turkey sausage, peas and mushrooms...

delish!

My time on-line has been so short that I am a week behind in posting for I Heart Cooking Clubs. Last week it was Potluck which means anything goes. 

I chose this recipe for two reasons. There was sausage (for hubby) and it came together in less than 30 minutes. I used a spicy sausage since my guys love heat and I used whole wheat pasta to add to the fiber content. I loved the bold flavor that the Grand Padano cheese added. It's a little stronger than Parmesan cheese that I usually use and worth the extra cost.

Celebrate the Feast!

Mary

***There is still time to enter my blogaversary giveaways. 

Day One celebrating the kitchen.

Day Two celebrating homemaking skills.

Day Three celebrating good books.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Farfalle w/Turkey Sausage, Peas and Mushrooms

recipe from Everyday Italian by Giada DeLaurentiis

Ingredients:

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

1 pound ground turkey sausage, removed from casing

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

10 ounces cremini mushrooms, coarsely chopped

1 (10 ounce) package frozen peas, defrosted slightly

1 pound dried farfalle pasta

1/2 cup freshly grated Grana Padano cheese

Directions:

In a large pot, bring 6 quarts of salted water to a boil.

In a large saute pan over high heat, add 2 tablespoons olive oil. Season turkey with salt and pepper. Add turkey and saute breaking any large lumps until golden brown. Remove meat from pan and set aside. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil to pan and heat. Add chopped mushrooms and season with salt and pepper. Saute until all the liquid from the mushrooms has evaporated, about 5 minutes. Add the peas and saute for 4 minutes. Return the meat to the pan and cook for another 3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

When the pot of water has come to a boil, add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain in a colander. Return pasta to the pot and add the meat mixture. Combine thoroughly and gently cook over medium heat for 5 minutes. Drizzle in remaining olive oil. If the mixture is dry, do not hesitate to use more olive oil if necessary. Check the seasoning. Turn off the heat and add the grated cheese. Stir well and serve in large bowl.

Note: Grana Padano is a hard, grainy cow's milk cheese similar in flavor to Parmigiano-Reggiano.

play that song one more time...

everything you need for a lovely afternoon reading...

Here we are on our final day of celebration. Today we are celebrating books. Good books, bad books, free books! If your a regular reader of this blog you know I LOVE to read. Magazines, murder mysteries, memoirs, political thrillers and lots of romance. I read them all. I review a few along the way as well.

So today prize package contains a $30 gift certificate to Borders which can be used in a store or online. There is also a copy of one of my favorite memoirs The Sweet Life In Paris by David Lebovitz. It is a wonderful read and I know you'll enjoy it. Finally there are two of my favorite things to have while reading a good book. A selection Of Twinning Tea and Giradelli Double Chocolate Hot Chocolate. Oh sweet Mamma that is some goodness there!

So answer the questions below and earn a chance to win this great package. I can't wait to read your answers. You guys are the best!

Here are the questions:
1. What are you currently reading?
2. What was your favorite children's book?
3. How do you select what you read?


The rules are the same as yesterday. One comment = one entry for the prize package. 


If you haven't left a comment for the first two giveaways you still have time. Comments open until 6 a.m. Monday, November 1, 2010.


Day One celebrating good things from the kitchen.

Day Two celebrating homemaking skills.

Spread the word on facebook or twitter. The more the merrier!


Happy reading, 
Mary

the party continues...

a few of my favorite things...

Welcome my dear readers to day two of my blogiversay celebration!

I am loving those comments. Keep them coming. Today we are talking about homemaking skills specifically sewing. I learned to sew in high school and then refined my skills under my my mother-in-law tutelage in 1989 when I was pregnant with Jonathan and could not find a darn thing to wear. So I made my maternity wardrobe and then continued to sew for my children and extended family. I learned to do English Smocking and quilt. I have made pillows and curtains for my home. I love the the creative process of choosing the fabric and then creating a completely unique garment or home accessory. It's really quite fun.

Today's prize package is really cool. I am a huge fan of the oliver & s patterns for children's clothing. The directions are clear and the final product is always top notch. So I have included one of my favorite patterns the Swingset Tunic and Skirt. I know it's a girls pattern but most everyone I know has a daughter and I think girls clothes are easier to sew. Then there is a brand new copy of Weekend Sewing: More Than 40 Projects and Ideas for Inspired Stitching by the fabulously talented Heather Ross. It contains some wonderful projects for all levels of seamstresses.

Now if your not a sewer don't worry. This would be a great gift for someone in your life who does. So please do leave a comment and enter to win.

Here are the questions:
1. What is the first thing you ever made or remember being made for you?
2. If you could describe yourself as a fabric would you be velvet, cotton, wool or silk and why?
3. What sewing skill/technique would you like to learn?

The rules are the same as yesterday. One comment = one entry for the prize package. Comments open until 6 a.m. Monday, Novemebr 1, 2010.

If you have not entered yesterdays giveaway...there is still time. So pop on over and comment!

Happy Stitches,
Mary

let the celebration begin...

two of my favorite cookbooks...for you!

Well My Dear Readers,
Today marks my third blogiversary! Oh what fun this has been for me over these past few years. I am so honored that you stop in and say hello on a regular basis. I appreciate your comments and emails but most especially your prayers for me and my family. You all are the very best...truly!

So to celebrate, I decided a few giveaways were in order. So for the next three days I will post three questions for you to answer in the comment section. With each answer you will be entered into the drawing for that day. One answer = one entry, three answers = three entries.

I will leave all three posts up for an extra day and draw the winners on Monday, November 1, All Saints Day. Please spread the word on facebook and twitter. It's always nice to meet new people so let's really get the conversation going here.

Today we're talking about the family table. The prize for today are brand new copies of two of my favorite cookbooks; Everyday Italian by Giada deLaurentis and The Barefoot Contessa Cookbook by Ina Garten. I have really enjoyed cooking from these books. The ingredients are easy to find in your local grocery store and the directions are clear and simple to follow. These are great books for beginners in the kitchen or the more seasoned home cook. The finished product will astound you with the bold flavors and absolute yumminess. I promise!


Here are the questions:
1. What is your favorite food memory? 
2. What is your favorite condiment to use on your food and why?
3. What kitchen/cooking skill would you like to learn?


There you have it. I am looking forward to your comments. Remember you have until Monday at 6 a.m. to comment! Make sure if you leave a way for me to contact you (in case your the winner)


Celebrate good times...come on!!
Mary

small successes (vol.56)...

"It’s important for moms to recognize that all the small successes in our days can add up to one big triumph. So on Thursday of each week, we do exactly that."

Danielle Bean @ Faith and Family LIVE

1.

After a few weeks away to re-evaluate my new schedule and try to create a system that will meet everyone needs, I feel like I finally have a handle on things.  I think I wore out my Excel Spreadsheet program, I have created so many lists. So far, I am feeling less stress and getting more done. 

Finally...success!

2.

I came up with a hook for the memoir I have spent two years working on and it feels wonderful. 

Drumroll please...

"***** is about accepting God's plan, demanding a map and finding out it's been lost in the mail." 

so stinkin excited...now to finish the dagone thing...yowza!

3.

I am celebrating three years in blogville!! Woohoo!! So I am giving away a few goodies over the next few days so please leave a comment on the celebration posts. 

This is so much fun! I would love for you to win something lovely. So see what it's all about here and spread the word...the more the merrier.

Head on over to FaithandFamilyLIVE! to read more successes. Let's encourage and support one another!

Blessings and Grace.

Mary

happy, happy blog birthday!!

www.spirit21.co.uk/uploaded_images/Happy-3rd-Birthday-Spirit21-712234.jpg

Passionate Perseverance turns 3 tomorrow and we are going to have us a little party. There will gifts to giveaway for three days straight. The drawings will take place on Monday, November 1, The Feast of All Saints. This way you will have plenty of time to leave a comment each day to be entered into the drawings.


What will I be giving away you ask??? 


My lips are sealed...until tomorrow that is...


Be here and bring your friends...you don't want to miss it!!
Mary

barefoot contessa meets tasty tuesday...

thick glistening creamy gold...yummmmm!

This weeks recipe comes from the lovely and talented Ina Garten. Barefoot Blogger Laura @ Family Spice chose this recipe and when my husband saw it on the calendar he was thrilled. We fell in love with clam chowder when we lived in Maine from 1989-92. Seafood was in abundance and each local restaurant had their own version of the classic New England Clam Chowder. No two were alike and that's what made it fun to hop around town and try each one.

What makes this chowder special is the glistening creamy base. It is light and lovely. The veggies are tender and the clams sweet. Another bonus to the soup is that it makes 12-15 servings. Also, I used canned clams to save money. It's the perfect cure to a cold rainy day.

Celebrate the Feast!
Mary

*************************************

This weeks recipe is being shared with Balancing Beauty and Bedlam , Raising Homemakers and City Wife Country Life as well as Frugality and Crunchiness w/ Christy! Head on over to their blogs and check out other fabulous recipes.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

East Hampton Clam Chowder

recipe from Barefoot Contessa Family Style

Ingredients:

12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, divided

2 cups chopped yellow onions (2 onions)

2 cups medium-diced celery (4 stalks)

2 cups medium-diced carrots (6 carrots)

4 cups peeled medium-diced boiling potatoes (8 potatoes)

1 1/2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme leaves (1/2 teaspoon dried)

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 quart (4 cups) clam juice

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

2 cups milk

3 cups chopped fresh chowder clams (1 1/2 pounds shucked clams)

Directions:

Melt 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) of the butter in a large heavy-bottomed stockpot. Add the onions and cook over medium-low heat for 10 minutes, or until translucent. Add the celery, carrots, potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper and saute for 10 more minutes. Add the clam juice, bring to a boil, and simmer, uncovered, until the vegetables are tender, about 20 minutes.

In a small pot, melt the remaining 8 tablespoons of butter and whisk in the flour. Cook over very low heat for 3 minutes, stirring constantly. Whisk in a cup of the hot broth and then pour this mixture back into the cooked vegetables. Simmer for a few minutes until the broth is thickened.

Add the milk and clams and heat gently for a few minutes to cook the clams. Taste for salt and pepper. Serve hot.

multitude monday ~ pumpkins, squash & gourds...oh my!

the pumpkins were HUGE and so beautiful

Last week I took my girl and a few of her favorite friends to the local farm stand to check out the bounty of the harvest. The colors were just spectacular. The mums, cabbage flowers, gourds, squash and pumpkins were in abundance. It was a lovely little diversion for my city girl. She was so happy being outside feeling the wind on her face, smelling the apples and listening to her mother be excited over every texture and tactile experience.

court wasn't sure what to do with the gourd that was shaped like a snake.
I love her facial expression. She gave a hearty yell to go with it.

It was such a lovely little diversion in our day. While there I picked up some yummy apple and pumpkin butter. I can't wait to give them a try on some lovely whole grain toast served with a hot cup of tea. We are blessed with so many unique local food artisans here in No VA. The apple cider was so crisp and fresh. 
Sensational!

so many different types of squash...amazing.

 I am grateful for:

#55 - an abundant harvest

#56 - a soft giggle as the wind caresses my girls face 

#57 - the colors of fall

#58 - the elegance of Courtney's hands as she explores the harvest bounty

#59 - a school that allows my daughter to seek her full potential 

smiling with the different texture of the gourds

#60 - pink windbreakers with hoods, curls and a smile that takes your breath away!

Thanks to Ann@Holy Experience for hosting Multitude Mondays.

and we're back...

beauty before the first frost

I know that it has been a few weeks since I have posted on a regular basis. Thank you for the kind emails and all the prayers. I so appreciate them. Things are beginning to calm down a bit and I am working on establishing a new daily rhythm for myself and the family. There are a few more kinks to iron out but for the most part I think I have a basic daily plan in place that will meet my needs.

So what about the blog you ask? Well I am kind of excited about a few things coming up. I have taken in all your comments on what you'd like to see and hopefully in the coming weeks there will be posts that may help and inspire you in your home, especially in the kitchen.

the last breath of indian summer 

This week my blog will celebrate it's third birthday. I don't know where the time has gone but it sure has been fun. So to celebrate I will be having some fabulous giveaways later this week so make sure you stop in on Wednesday (Oct. 28) to take part in all the excitement. Bring your friends, you won't want to miss it!

For now I share these two images taken this weekend at the Oatlands Estate in Leesburg, VA. What a lovely day filled with sunshine, God's beautiful Fall landscape and wonderful friends. I am rested and ready to go.

Happy Fall Y'all,
Mary

new piece at catholic womanhood...

Hi everyone! 

I know it's been a bit slow around here these days but some exciting things are coming I promise. In the mean time, check out my new piece over at  CNA/Catholic Womanhood. Leave a comment and let me know what your thinking...

Afflicted but not Destroyed

indeed!

"Seize the moment. Remember all those women on the 'Titanic' who waved off the dessert cart."

— Erma Bombeck

lessons from "secretariat"...

This weekend I had the privilege to see the movie Secretariat with my mother. What a fabulous movie! Against all odds a housewife from Denver is able to save her families legacy as her horse, won in a coin toss, goes on to win the Triple Crown. Penny Chenery Tweedy was a wife and mother living with her husband and four children in Denver, CO. She unexpectedly found herself in charge of the families horse breeding business after the death of her mother and the grave illness of her father. She never gave up, she did whatever was necessary to take care of her family and live out her dream to see Big Red (Secretariat's given name) run. I love movies based on real life heroes. I always walk away inspired to keep moving forward and this time was no exception.



If you are a regular reader of this blog you know that things have been a bit of a struggle for me lately. I have had much on my plate from Courtney's weight issues and doctor's appointments to going back to work part-time while being challenged on the home-front with my inability to keep up with all things homemaking as efficiently as I had in the past. Most days I am so darn tired because we are on the move all the time that just the thought of expending the energy to do something creative makes me cringe.

No energy = no creativity. No creativity = no joy. No joy = no hope.  It a vicious cycle. Add to this list some personal struggles with my writing and a few family issues and you have yourself a real storm.

I am not a huge fan of storms although God sure does seem to place me in the middle of quite a few. I wonder what He's trying to say to me? He has tried many times over the years to get my attention.

"Slow down, be in the moment" is an oldie but goodie.

"Stop worrying about what other people think and worry about what I think" is another all time favorite.

This time after much prayer and many late nights pacing the floors worrying about how I would get it all done He pretty much started screaming in my heart something that He has been trying to get me to do for the last ten years.

"ACCEPTANCE!"

Acceptance of where my life is right now...today. Acceptance of who is in my life no matter if they are friend or foe. Acceptance of  my children, my body, my marriage and all that is happening in/with them at this very moment. Acceptance of His unwavering, undying, merciful love that will never end!

There is a great line from the movie that just spoke to my heart this weekend. Penny is faced with every obstacle there is and her back is against the wall. She is tired and frustrated with everyone quitting on her and her horse. One fateful evening she utters these words:

"It's about running toward the future. It's the will to win if you can and live with it if you can't."

In that moment I heard my father's voice as loudly as if he were sitting next to me in the theatre. This was something he used to say.

My Dad also had a shock of red hair and growing up his nickname just happened to be "Big Red". Coincidence? I think not. I know what your thinking...it's just a movie about a horse. This is so schmaltzy!

You are absolutely correct.

One thing I have learned over the years though is that when God wants to get your attention He will use whatever He can to make a point. Even if it's through a schmaltzy family movie about a famous horse...of course!

It's my job to listen and make a choice.

So, do I let my fear of failure overtake me? Do I let my fear of disappointing someone determine my course of action? Do I let my fear of losing a friendship stand in the way of my being an authentic Catholic/Christian called into the service of my God each and every day no matter if the world agrees with it or not? Do I let my worries that I am not doing enough for my son/daughter/husband stop me from even trying to be the best wife/mother I can be?

NO! NO! NO! NO!

I must admit over these last two weeks the answer was Yes a million times over. Then came the story of a horse which began with these lines from Job:

Job 39:19-24 

 "Do you give the horse his might?

   Do you clothe his neck with a mane?

Do you make him leap like the locust?

   His majestic snorting is terrifying.

He paws in the valley and exults in his strength;

   he goes out to meet the weapons.

He laughs at fear and is not dismayed;

   he does not turn back from the sword.

Upon him rattle the quiver,

   the flashing spear, and the javelin.

With fierceness and rage he swallows the ground;

   he cannot stand still at the sound of the trumpet."

These words are powerful filled with such majestic imagery. There was no stopping this horse and there will be no challenge today that will stop me.

I hear that trumpet sounding...do you??

God created the heavens and the earth, the stars and the sky. He created that beautiful majestic horse named Secretariat AND his strong stubborn owner who would not give up until their dream was realized. 

It's not about what I have or what I want. It's about what God has given me and what I need to do HIS will. I think this is a lesson that I will be learning over and over until maybe one day when I stand before God in judgment He will say to me those most beautiful words...Well done good and faithful servant. Welcome Home. 

Below is the music video for the song that played at the end of the movie. The lyrics struck a cord as the film had done. I have listened to it many times since.

It may seem simple or maybe even a little childish but it's what broke through the concrete wall that has been surrounding my heart recently and I am so grateful for it. I pray that it helps encourage you in your walk today, no matter where you are or what your facing.

Blessings and Grace to you all and thank you so much for the prayers and words of encouragement. There is much to be done so let's get to it shall we??

Mary

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"It's Who You Are"

It's not the price

It's not the game

It's not the score

It's not the fame

Whatever road looks way too far

It's not what you have

It's who you are

It's not how fast

It's not how far

It's not of cheers

It's who you are

In darkest night

You make your sun

You choose your race

And then you run

It's never the glory

It's never the score

It's not about seeing about who's less and who's more

Cuz when you find out how fast and how far

You'll know it's not how much you have

It's who you are

You lose the moon

Then be a star

It's not too soon

Be who you are

Whatever road looks way too far

It's not what you have

It's who you are

It's never the glory

It's never the score

It's not seeing about seeing

Who's less and who's more

Cuz when you find out how fast and how far

You'll know it's not how much you have

It's who you are

When you have found

How fast you can run

Ehen you have found

Your place in the sun,

It won't be just you that you'll find

Has made the run and the climb

It's everyone

It's never the glory

It's never the score

It's not seeing about seeing

Who's less and who's more

Cuz when you find out how fast and how far

you'll know it's not how much you have

http://www.zerodaymusic.com

It's who you are

It's who you are

Learning to bend and not to break

Living to give more than you take

Dying to live

Living to try

Feet on the ground

Dreams in the sky

It's never how much you have

It's who you are

mary's book basket ~ "head in the clouds" by karen witemeyer

Christian Inspirational author Karen Witemeyer has hit another home run with her delightful sophomore effort "Head In The Clouds" which follows the lovely Adelaide proctor out west searching for a more exciting life.


Product Description:
Adelaide Proctor is a young woman with her head in the clouds, longing for a real-life storybook hero to claim as her own. But when a husband-hunting debacle leaves her humiliated, she interviews for a staid governess position on a central Texas sheep ranch and vows to leave her romantic yearnings behind. When Gideon Westcott left his privileged life in England to make a name for himself in America's wool industry, he never expected to become a father overnight. And five-year-old Isabella hasn't uttered a word since she lost her mother. The unconventionality of the new governess concerns Gideon--and intrigues him at the same time. But he can't afford distractions. He has a ranch to run, a shearing to oversee, and a suspicious fence-cutting to investigate. When Isabella's uncle comes to claim the child--and her inheritance--Gideon and Adelaide must work together to protect Isabella from the man's evil schemes. And soon neither can deny their growing attraction. But after so many heartbreaks, will Adelaide be willing to get her head out of the clouds and put her heart on the line?


I read this book in one day and I can't remember the last time that happened. It was that good. Ms. Witemeyer is known for her strong but always feminine heroines who don't back down from a challenge and can hold their own against sometimes prickly heroes. She writes them smart and perfectly balanced for her heroine. I have noticed Ms. Witemeyer likes to add intrigue to her romances and this book is no exception. There is a kidnapping plot in the later quarter of the book that does a fabulous job of bringing Adelaide and Gideon together.

I loved the emotional depth of the characters and  how the author draws the reader completely into their stories. Adelaide spoke to my heart because she reminded me so much of myself as a younger girl so filled with romantic dreams of the perfect man. While there is no such thing, Ms. Witemeyer does prove the point that there is someone for everyone. Compromise may be needed but in the end true love wins the day.

Go buy this book. You will thank me for the journey!

Happy Reading!
Mary

mary's book basket ~ "the waiting" by suzanne woods fisher

Suzanne Woods Fisher is a stand out author writing mostly what we call in the romance writing world "bonnet romances" with Amish heroes and heroines. Her knowledge of the Amish, their world, language and customs is impressive. What makes her books so unique though is the modern issues she deals with in her books. 


Product Description:
Jorie King has been waiting for Benjamin Zook to return home to Lancaster County so they can marry. When news arrives that Ben has been killed, Jorie finds comfort in the friendship of his brother Caleb. That friendship ripens into love, and it seems that they are meant to be together. But when the unexpected happens, their worlds are turned upside down once more. Will Jorie trust God to lead her into the arms of a new man? A multifaceted story about complex people living the simple life, The Waiting is the second book in the LANCASTER COUNTY SECRETS series. Readers will find themselves transported into the world of the Amish and deeply invested in these wonderful characters.


One thing you will not call this story is boring. There are more twists and turns that on a mountain highway. Jorie and Caleb's story is a powerful one filled with secrets, not something one associates with the Amish, but we all have them. I don't want to give away any of the surprises but lets just say you won't be able to put this one down.

I think my favorite part of the novel is how Ms. Fisher draws the reader into the inner conflict of each of the main characters. You care about them and you want them to be OK. That is a difficult thing to do in fiction and Ms. Fisher pulls it off in spades. This will be another book you add to your keeper shelf.

Happy Reading,
Mary

where i am...

Could not have written it better myself. This morning it speaks to my soul.

Let The Plates Fall

streams of insanity...

too much on my plate these days. I feel like I have no time to breathe, dream, write, connect with another human being. I am running from one place to another barely acknowledging any other humans before moving on again. This is beyond frustrating and totally my own fault due to my inability to say no over the last several months which just adds to the frustration. Fall keeps teasing me being present one day and gone the next. Courtney continues to challenge the docs with her weight loss/gain and Jonathan pushes forward in his college journey. Jerry is working, working, working and I am just trying to keep the home fires burning. Of course I can't even see the home fires through the dust and disorganization but I have a desperate desire to set things right and enjoy some peace and tranquility. things here will be slow since I can barely string two sentences together these days.

maybe by spring...

i heart cooking clubs ~ giada's crab & ricotta cannelloni

This week at I Heart Cooking Clubs we begin working with a new chef. Introducing Giada DeLaurentiis who specializes in what I would call Italian inspired bistro dishes. She is a huge believer in using fresh produce and eating seasonally. I am really looking forward to getting into the kitchen and working through her six cookbooks over the next few months. It's going to be delish!

So our first theme was a welcoming party for Miss Giada. I went to my honey and said if we were to have a dinner party what would he want to serve. Instead of sticking with appetizers or antipasti he went straight to the main dish.

Giada's Crab and Ricotta Manicotti is a celebration for your senses. The creamy béchamel sauce combined with the sweetness of the crab and the fragrant basil, oh Miss Molly we have ourselves a party.

This recipe came together fairly quickly for a baked pasta dish. I served it with a fresh green salad and it was quite a hit with my family. They have asked me to add it to our Meatless Friday rotation. Crab can be a little pricey so I will be watching for sales before I make it again. 

This is going to be a fabulous six months. Come and join us over at I Heart Cooking Clubs won't you?

Celebrate the Feats, 

Mary

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Crab and Ricotta Cannelloni

Recipe from Everyday Pasta by Giada De Laurentiis

Ingredients:

1 box (8 ounces) cannelloni or manicotti pasta (about 12 shells)

1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese

3/4 cup grated Parmesan, plus 1/4 cup for sprinkling

1 egg yolk

1/2 cup chopped fresh basil leaves

1 pound lump crabmeat

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground white pepper

Bechamel Sauce, recipe follows

Directions:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the pasta and cook until tender but still firm to the bite, stirring occasionally, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain pasta.

In a large bowl, mix together ricotta, 3/4 cup Parmesan, egg yolk, basil, crab, salt, and pepper.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Fill the cannelloni with the crab mixture and place in a buttered baking dish. Top the filled cannelloni with the Bechamel Sauce and sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan cheese. Bake until bubbly and the top is golden brown, about 15 to 20 minutes. Serve immediately.

Bechamel Sauce:

5 tablespoons unsalted butter

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

4 cups whole milk, warmed

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground white pepper

Pinch freshly grated nutmeg

mary's book basket ~ "the house on malcolm street" by leisha kelly

Christian Fiction author Leisha Kelly writes a poignant tale telling the story of Leah Brekenridge and Josiah Walsh, who meet while being borders at The House On Malcolm Street. Both have pasts filled with loss and are trying to move forward with their lives.

Product Description:
It is the autumn of 1920 and Leah Breckenridge is desperate to find a way to provide for her young daughter. After losing her husband and infant son in an accident, she is angry at God and fearful about the future. Finding refuge in a boardinghouse run by her late husband's aunt, Leah's heart begins the slow process of mending. Is it the people who surround her--or perhaps this very house--that reach into her heart with healing? Delightful, realistic characters and skilled writing make The House on Malcolm Street a treasure. Leisha Kelly's fans and new readers alike will find this simple story about the complexities of life an engrossing read. 


Ms. Kelly's writing reminds me of a beautifully sad song. Her heroine Leah is paralyzed by fear. She is a wounded bird looking for a safe place to land with her daughter to begin again. She finds what she is looking for in Aunt Marigold. What a wonderful character. A woman of deep unyielding faith who trusts God for her very breath. She guides/mentors Leah into taking back her life and allowing God to heal the hurts of the past.

Aunt Marigold does the same for Josiah Walsh who feels such guilt over a past tragedy that he cannot open his heart to whatever God has planned for his future. In some beautifully written, tender scenes Ms Kelly slowly unveils the reasons why these two wounded hearts struggle as they do, drawing the reader into their struggles even more through their internal dialogues. The themes of trust and redemption are strong throughout this novel.

I really enjoyed this read. I loved the scenes with Leah in the garden. The healing balm of growing and nurturing plants was a beautiful extension of hers and Aunt Marigolds relationship. It is not a romance as much as a journey for both of these young people. A warmhearted story that pairs perfectly with a rainy day and a hot cup of tea.

Happy Reading,
Mary

small successes (vol.55)...

"It’s important for moms to recognize that all the small successes in our days can add up to one big triumph. So on Thursday of each week, we do exactly that."

Danielle Bean @ Faith and Family LIVE!

I am really in a place this week, just frustrated and out of sorts to be completely honest. I have been so busy honoring commitments outside my home that the inside has just gone to hell in a hand basket! Sorry, but it's true. I am struggling to recognize any successes this week. I know I had one but the rest are a serious stretch. So here we go...

1.

I filled the deep freeze with meals that will feed our family for several weeks. With this go round I will be honest and say it was a bit overwhelming. I didn't plan as well and I started really late in the day so by the end I was totally exhausted and had to continue cooking the next day. 

Still...I did it and now I have a little more time during my day to see to the other needs of my family and home.

2. 

I figured out what to get my son for his 21st birthday next month. I know that this may seem silly but he is a difficult person to shop for so when I figure out a gift/surprise that I know he will love, I get a little excited.

3. 

Hmmmm...ahhhhhh...wellll...

Yep. That's it. That's all I've got. 

Head on over to FaithandFamilyLIVE! to read more successes. Let's encourage and support one another!

Blessings and Grace.

Mary