Christmas Book Club Fun!

Debby Giusti here!

My local book club met last night. We've been together for ten years and always enjoy our monthly meetings. We each brought a wrapped book for a "Chinese book exchange." Each person can choose from the pile or "steal" one of the books already selected, which adds to the fun.
 
The hostess then picks a story for our January discussion from the exchanged books, and everyone goes home with a new read for the New Year. 

To add to the festivities, our hostess, Rita, dubbed the evening "Tacky Christmas Sweater Night" and asked everyone to wear the oldest, silliest, tackiest Christmas sweater they could find. Don't we all look cute in our holiday finery!

Our December book was MY MOTHER'S SECRET, by J. L. Witterick. The poignant Holocaust story was set in Poland, and Rita fixed a delicious Polish dinner complete with stuffed cabbage in honor of the story. 

The night ended with a cookie exchange with lots of yummy goodies from which to choose. Some of the cookies were eaten on site and the rest divided and taken home to share with our families. Are you in a book club? Do you have a special celebration for your December meeting? What have been

your favorite reads for 2014?

Wishing you a joyous Christmas!

Debby Giusti

www.DebbyGiusti.com

www.seekerville.blogspot.com

THIS HOLIDAY SEASON, THREE MILITARY MEN OF HONOR MUST DO EVERYTHING THEY CAN TO SAVE CHRISTMAS

Mission: Christmas Rescue by Debby Giusti 

On the run from a killer, Elizabeth Tate must accept U.S. Army Captain Nick Fontaine’s protection for the sake of her young niece and nephew. Now her life is in the hands of the very man who broke her heart years ago.

Special Ops Christmas by Susan Sleeman 

Researcher Claire Reed’s top secret project is stolen, putting her at risk of being kidnapped to unlock it. Her undercover bodyguard—her former love, Green Beret Travis Chapman—is on his most dangerous mission yet.

Homefront Holiday Hero by Jodie Bailey 

When someone tries to kill the daughter of a military official, U.S. Army major Tyler Rainey must keep Kelly Walters from harm…while guarding his own heart against very unexpected feelings.

Click here to order your copy. 

It's a Beautiful Morning in Florida!

Ahhh....sweet sunshine in the state of Florida today.

If only my fingers weren't so COLD!!!!

Today is bright blue with hint of bite in the air. Here's a picture I snagged of a plant growing outside my house. It's the neatest little guy, growing in a pot, and I have no clue what it is. My rose bush is still blooming too. Go figure!



What's blooming in your neighborhood? What is your favorite flower?

Holiday Sweets

Hi, this is Margaret Daley. This is the time of year to indulge in sweets. Like a vacation, calories don’t count during the holidays. I wish that were really true. Oh, well, we can always dream. I want to share a new recipe I came across from Braum, which is a chain of stores that specializes in ice cream and diary products in my area of the country.

Peppermint Cake with Marshmallow Cream Frosting

2 cups of melted peppermint ice cream

1 box of white cake mix

3 eggs

½ cup chocolate mint flavored baking chips

4 oz. softened cream cheese

1 7 oz. jar of marshmallow cream

1 stick of softened butter

1 teaspoon vanilla

1 ¾ cups powdered sugar

small pieces of peppermint candies

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Spray nonstick cooking spray in a Bundt pan. Combine the cake mix, eggs and melted ice cream in a large bowl and then beat those ingredients  together for 2 minutes with an electric mixer. Stir in the baking chips until they are all mixed in. Fill the Bundt pan with the batter and bake for 35-40 minutes. It should be golden and cooked thoroughly. When you remove the cake from the oven, turn the Bundt pan upside down onto a plate and leave the pan over the cake for at least 4 hours.

For the frosting, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth with an electric mixer. Add in the marshmallow cream and vanilla and mix together. Finally put in the powdered sugar slowly mixing in ½ cup at a time. Spread the frosting over the cake and decorate with bits of peppermint.

Do you have a favorite holiday sweet you would like to share with us?

Craftie Ladies - Love Inspired Historical December 2014 Releases

Listed below are the upcoming releases from our talented Love Inspired Historical writers here at Craftie Ladies of Romance.  To purchase any of these wonderful books, just click on the book covers.  And to learn more about the authors, click on their names.

A Cowboy for Christmas
By Lacy Williams

Redemption Ranch

After an accident leaves her injured, Daisy Richards stays secluded at her family's Wyoming ranch to avoid the town's gawking stares. Yet handsome cowboy newcomer Ricky White insists she can do anything she dreams—ride a horse, decorate a Christmas tree…even steal a man's heart.

Once a reckless cad, Ricky is to blame for what happened to Daisy. Now reformed, he wants to make amends by setting things right for his boss's beautiful daughter in time for the holidays. But Daisy doesn't know Ricky's responsible for her predicament. When the truth is revealed, will he lose the greatest gift he's ever received—her trust?

Wyoming Legacy: United by family, destined for love

FEATURED BOOK AND INTERVIEW: The Yuletide Rescue by Margaret Daley

When Dr. Bree Mathison's plane plummets into the Alaskan wilderness at Christmastime, she is torn between grief and panic. With the pilot—her dear friend—dead and wolves circling, she struggles to survive. Search and Rescue leader David Stone fights his way through the elements to save her. David suspects the plane crash might not have been an accident, spurring Bree's sense that she's being watched. But why is someone after her? Suddenly Bree finds herself caught in the middle of a whirlwind of secrets during the holiday season. With everyone she cares about most in peril, Bree and her promised protector must battle the Alaskan tundra and vengeful criminals to make it to the New Year. 

Alaskan Search and Rescue: Risking their lives to save the day

Interview:

Today we're welcoming Bree Mathison, the heroine of The Yuletide Rescue, written by Margaret Daley, a December 2014 by Love Inspired Suspense. 

Wow, you've just had quite an adventure.   

1.  Tell us a little about yourself and how you came to be in the midst of such suspense.

I was returning from my month at a clinic in northern Alaska when the plane I was in went down. Thankfully I was rescued by David Stone before some scary men descended from a helicopter. 

2. Tell us a bit about him/her.  What was your first impression David Stone?  When did you know it was love? 

My first thought was relief because he came to rescue from the plane that had crashed. When I realized he was there for me no matter what I knew I was in love with him.    

3.  What strengths/skills do you have?  What is your greatest weakness? My greatest and sometimes weakest part of me is that I believe in people. But I've ended up hurt because of that.      

4.  What scares you?

The dark, which in Alaska can be a long time in the winter.  

5. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? Being afraid to risk my heart again.

6.  Where are you in your faith at the start of your story?

My faith is strong but is tested.  

7.  Where are you in your faith at the end of the story? I learned God is with you no matter what.

8. You've got a scripture at the beginning of the story.  Tell us why this scripture is significant.

It's Joshua 1:9 about being strong and courageous. I chose it because both myself and David had to be strong and full of courage to do what we needed to live.

9. If you could be a dessert what would you be and why?

Baked Alaska because I grew up in Alaska and love the place.

Friday Sisterhood with Missy Tippens

Our Beloved MISSY

Family Status: Married for 25+ years with three kids. One is grown and working as a youth minister. The middle son is in college studying physics. The youngest is a senior in high school. Yes, I'll be an empty nester soon!

What Is Your Favorite Beverage: Diet Dr. Pepper

What Is Your Favorite Food: Spaghetti with freshly grated parmesan. Lots of parmesan! And that might hold a tie with brownies--gooey dark chocolate brownies. :)

What Is Your Favorite Thing to do During Free Time: Read or catch up with DVR'd shows with my daughter.

Who Has Been the Most Influential Person in Your Life: Probably my husband. But also my Bible study leader, Dotty Gunby.

First Book You Fell in Love With: Anne of Green Gables.

A Book You Wish You’d Written: There are several that have made me cry, wishing I could write like that.

First Book Published: Her Unlikely Family from Love Inspired in 2008.

Most Recent Book: The Guy Next Door from Love Inspired (October) and Hope for the Holidays Contemporary Collection, an indie published boxed set with fellow authors from the Seekerville blog (November).

Available Now!

Out Next: The Doctor's Second Chance from Love Inspired in May.

How Many Have You Written: 8

What Do You Know Now That You Wish You’d Known Then: How to better balance work/writing with family and "real" life.

What is Your Favorite Bible Story: The story of Esther (really enjoyed Beth Moore's study!).

What is Your Favorite Bible Verse: Jeremiah 29:11. "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

What is Your Favorite Hymn: So many!! I can't pick one. But right now, I'm excited about singing the traditional Christmas carols.

What is an Ongoing Prayer Request You Have: For my children to discover and follow the path God has planned for them.

A Recipe for Romance

A great gift idea for Christmas!  Several of the Craftie Ladies have stories and recipes in this collection.  But the best part...the proceeds go to BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS
Help us donate to this worthwhile non-profit organization that serves the needs of children by snagging a copy for yourself and anyone else who might enjoy 22 short romances and 22 recipes.  You might even find something new to make for Christmas!

P.S. The authors would love to hear how you like the stories and recipes. Reviews are most appreciated.

Here's the links for your convienance

Kindle version: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00QEE7Z18/

Amazon version: http://www.amazon.com/dp/1942505000/ 

B&N

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-recipe-for-romance-lenora-worth/1120836460?ean=2940149958740

iBooks

https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/a-recipe-for-romance/id946769889?mt=11

Kobo

http://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/a-recipe-for-romance

Or, if you'd like to order through the Createspace store, the royalty is approx $5 to the charity: https://www.createspace.com/5124721 

Excerpt from Second Chance in the Northwoods by Lyn Cote

Heading to a job interview at 9 a.m., through the thick green forests of far northern Wisconsin to Rhinelander, Carrie couldn’t shake the feeling that people were watching.

She knew it wasn’t true. But she was hiding the truth, afraid someone would find out. She turned off Highway 47. Ahead, she saw the sign along Lincoln Street for MIKE’S AUTO REPAIR. Her heart pounded at the thought of what this job could mean for her. If she didn’t find work, and soon, she wouldn’t be able to stay here near . . . She slowed.

A horn beeped behind her, prompting her to turn in. She pulled up to the area near the door. Already the sound of tools emanated from within. Two bay doors stood open. She got out of the car, pressing down her bad case of nerves. Most of the time she felt as if she’d accomplished a lot in the past two years. Now that feeling deserted her.

She entered the building. The desk was unattended. Of course. She was here to apply for the position of receptionist and parts manager. She shifted, uneasy about what to do. Finally, she walked to the door marked “Shop” and opened it.

The noise level shot up. She stood at the doorway, debating the best way to get someone’s attention. A German shepherd stood up and walked slowly toward her. A guard dog? Her alarm rose.

Then the power drill, or whatever it was, stopped. A mountain of a man – Mike? –climbed out from beneath a vehicle on the hoist. She gasped, and her back bumped against the door.

In worn jeans and a gray T-shirt with “Mike’s Auto” on it, Mike commanded attention. He moved with a grace she didn’t expect from such a large man. Then she glimpsed his deep-brown eyes, his gentle gaze telling her not to be afraid. Jeannie had assured her that the Becks had lived in this area forever and were good people.

“Hi, I’m Mike Beck. Are you Carrie Baker? Jeannie McClure’s friend?” He wiped his hands on a towel attached to his belt. The dog moved to his side, the animal’s sharp eyes trained on her.

It still pained her that no one knew Jeannie was more than her friend. She cleared her throat. “Yes.”

The man’s large, slightly greasy hand gripped hers and shook it vigorously. The dog woofed once in welcome.

“Glad you could come. I didn’t want to advertise if I could find someone who knew someone. I heard about you when I took Greta to Jeannie’s husband, the vet.”

Greta sat back on her haunches, panting.

Carrie’s head swam with all of those connections. She’d grown up in a large city, feeling invisible, but here it seemed everybody knew everybody.

Then Greta lifted a paw toward her. Carrie automatically shook it, watching the big man beam at his pet.

Mike tried not to stare, but this young woman with long dark hair was so pretty and looked so nervous. “I hear you qualify as an executive assistant?”

Her head bobbed.

“Great! You need to fill out an application and then start work.”

Her eyes widening, Carrie didn’t immediately respond. It must have been tough for her trying to get settled among strangers. The vet’s wife had told him Carrie was shy. Or maybe his size made her nervous like it had others.

“Start?” she squeaked.

“Sure. If you want the job, it’s yours.”

Carrie hid her surprise as best she could and hurried to keep up with her new boss. And that’s how she got the job at Mike’s Auto Repair.

(continues…)

Lyn’s Tart and Cheesy Green Beans

2 tablespoons margarine or butter

2 tablespoons flour

1 teaspoon onion flakes or ¼ onion, chopped

1 teaspoon salt

Pepper to taste

½ cup plain yogurt or sour cream

2/3 cup cottage cheese or ricotta

3 cups fresh green beans, cooked/drained

½ cup cheddar cheese, grated

1 cup  breadcrumbs

2 slices crisp bacon

Melt butter. Stir in flour, salt, onion, pepper, yogurt (or sour cream) and cottage cheese (or ricotta). Mix well. Heat to bubbling. Stir in green beans and ½ cup breadcrumbs. Pour into sprayed casserole dish. Sprinkle on the rest of the breadcrumbs and cheddar. Crumble bacon over top. Bake in 350-degree oven for 20 minutes. Serves 4.

A CHRISTMAS STORY TOLD IN ORNAMENTS

Last weekend, with my grandson “Boo’s” help, I put up my Christmas tree. It definitely doesn’t look like anything out of a magazine. My ornaments range from homemade reindeer made out of candy canes and pipe cleaners to construction paper cut by overzealous preschoolers with pictures their happy little faces carefully, if crookedly, glued on top. We also have a tradition of purchasing a dated Hallmark ornament every year—more than one on years where weddings take place or babies are born.

For me, the process of decorating the tree is always an occasion of happy memories and a few tears. This year, as I removed each ornament from its box, I explained the significance to an over-excited and not-always-interested three-year-old boy who thought the cheap-o shiny glass bulbs were of more interest than the carefully handcrafted ornaments. Occasionally, though, his big blue eyes would light up with curiosity.

“This is your mommy when she was little.”

“Look! It’s Santa Claus.”

“Here’s baby Jesus with his mommy Mary.”

“This is you when you were just a bitty baby.”

At one point I pulled out an American bulldog ornament from a few years ago. “Hey, this ornament looks like Rubble on the Double,” I exclaimed. (From the children’s show Paw Patrol, for the uninitiated.)

Boo rolled his eyes. “No, Granny. That’s a regular puppy.” I stand corrected.

In Yuletide Baby, my December release from Harlequin Love Inspired, my heroine Heather’s tree tells a story. It’s not decorated with strings of lights and expensive ornaments. Rather, she’s strung popcorn and cranberries with her three foster children. When Pastor Shawn enters the picture with baby Noelle, it is Heather’s tree that first opens his eyes to Heather’s large, caring heart.

Every day since our tree went up last Friday, Boo comes to me with the same request—

“Granny, let’s go see the tree that we make-ded.” He’ll flip on the lights and we’ll exclaim in delight at how beautiful it is. I love sharing his enthusiasm for Christmas, the excitement never dims. And it reminds me that, just like a child, I should always find joy and excitement in the season. We're looking back at a most blessed event, but also forward to our Lord's coming again, and what could be more exciting than that?

Wishing you much joy and delight during the blessed seasons of Advent and Christmas. May you fall more and more in love with our Savior Jesus Christ as you take time to remember His humble birth and the wonderful advent of His return.

And also, if you happen to have decorated a Christmas tree this year, may you enjoy what you make-ded.

Love Courageously!

Deb

Christmas Traditions

Ready or not, the holidays are here, filled with the scents, sounds and traditions that make this special season like no other.

Here at the Obenhaus' home, the tree is up and decorated...

And the stockings have been hung with the greatest of care...

(I must remember to pick up another candle.)

Oh, but that's just the beginning. Soon, cherished events will take place, like our town's annual Christmas parade, my friend, Drenda's cookie/ornament swap, and so many other things, culminating in a blessed Christmas Eve church service.

Recipes that only appear this time of year are being dusted off and ingredients bought.

Andy Williams, Perry Como and Bing Crosby echo from my radio.

One of our favorite traditions is to give each child an ornament that will often reflect something that's happened in their lives that year. It's a tradition that my mom started when our oldest daughter was born and one I've carried on not only with my kids, but with my grandkids. 

In recent years, I've started purchasing an ornament whenever we go on a vacation, so every Christmas, as I hang them on the tree, I'm filled with memories of where we were and what we did.

Christmas wouldn't be Christmas without those amazing aromas. 

At our house, I always have Christmas Scent simmering on the stove.

The kids walk in and say, "It smells like Christmas."

It's also a great gift idea, so if you're interested, you can find the recipe in my journal at  mindyobenhaus.com. 

Now it's your turn. What are some of your favorite holiday traditions?

Craftie Ladies - Love Inspired Romance December 2014 Releases

Listed below are the upcoming releases from our talented Love Inspired Romance writers here at Craftie Ladies of Romance.  To purchase any of these wonderful books, just click on the book covers.  And to learn more about the authors, click on their names.

YULETIDE BABY
By Deb Kastner

A CHRISTMAS SURPRISE

Shawn O’Riley is shocked to find a baby girl abandoned at his church on Christmas Eve. He’s a pastor and a cowboy—not a daddy! Haunted by a family tragedy, he’s not sure he can risk his heart to baby Noelle—or to anyone else. But he needs help. Experienced foster mom Heather Lewis was anticipating a quiet holiday. When Shawn pops up at her door, she’s happy to show him the ropes of baby care—but isn’t prepared for the way he melts the walls around her heart. Can Shawn and Heather give each other the best Christmas gift of all—family and love?

COWBOY COUNTRY:

Surprise babies lead to unexpected love in Texas