Dangerous Shadows, Discipleship Book 3, Released and on Sale for .99 for a Limted Time
Snag a Kindle copy during the sale. The people in Hidden Danger and Dangerous Detour meet up in Dangerous Shadows to catch a thief, stalker and murderer. They are all stand alone books, but it's three times the fun to read all of them.
About Dangerous Shadows
About Dangerous Shadows
Shaken from an assault in the library parking lot at Hilltop College in Western North Carolina, crime reporter Emily Hanover contacts her ex-fiancé, private investigator Nick Lancaster. When the college hires Nick to recover quartz and ancient maps stolen from the library, Nick insists there’s a connection between the theft and Emily’s attack. As Nick and Emily face danger from an elusive stalker, their romance rekindles. Nick’s sidekick, Hucklesford, spots two suspects, so he and Nick go undercover. While Nick’s surveillance points to illegal gambling and murder, Hucklesford’s investigation leads him to the college cross-country team. Can Nick and Hucklesford, along with Emily, connect the stalker, theft, college student, and gambler’s murder to solve this baffling mystery? Will Nick and Emily find true love?
Meet Nick and Emily
Meet Nick and Emily
Quotes from Dangerous Shadows:
From Nick to Emily: “You should marry a private investigator. Then you wouldn’t need to worry about footsteps behind you.”
The following was overheard from an unidentified man at a kick-off party for the Hilltop College basketball team: “Nobody mentioned anything about killing anybody. I’m supposed to find the right mine. That’s it.”
A truism from Nick: “Attraction was spontaneous, but love was complicated.”
A Brief Excerpt
Chapter One
Emily Hanover walked to her sporty car in the parking lot at Hilltop College. Trees with bare limbs and evergreens in the forest beside the school spoke of winter still hanging on.
Heel clicks resounded behind her.
She peeked over her shoulder—no one, just a view of the large brick library.
Footsteps snapped in sync with hers.
She picked up her pace.
Silence fell.
She glanced back.
A shadow.
Checking her watch, she breathed easier. Was it the shadow of the bear? Even though she’d never seen it, she’d heard a bear’s shadow appeared in the North Carolina Mountains between five-thirty and six-fifteen in the afternoon in February and March.
The shadow of the bear didn’t follow people, but seemed to spring forward going from one hill to another. Silly her. Shadows didn’t make noise.
A man ducked behind an evergreen.
She pressed her key fob, her heart pounding as she charged toward her car. Panting, she scooted in the driver’s seat. Her finger shook as she punched the starter button. She mashed the pedal to the floor, and the engine roared. Letting up on the gas, she drove the speed limit while checking the rearview mirror. Cars, trucks, and SUVs followed her.
Buy on Amazon
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FV919PCK/
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From Nick to Emily: “You should marry a private investigator. Then you wouldn’t need to worry about footsteps behind you.”
The following was overheard from an unidentified man at a kick-off party for the Hilltop College basketball team: “Nobody mentioned anything about killing anybody. I’m supposed to find the right mine. That’s it.”
A truism from Nick: “Attraction was spontaneous, but love was complicated.”
A Brief Excerpt
Chapter One
Emily Hanover walked to her sporty car in the parking lot at Hilltop College. Trees with bare limbs and evergreens in the forest beside the school spoke of winter still hanging on.
Heel clicks resounded behind her.
She peeked over her shoulder—no one, just a view of the large brick library.
Footsteps snapped in sync with hers.
She picked up her pace.
Silence fell.
She glanced back.
A shadow.
Checking her watch, she breathed easier. Was it the shadow of the bear? Even though she’d never seen it, she’d heard a bear’s shadow appeared in the North Carolina Mountains between five-thirty and six-fifteen in the afternoon in February and March.
The shadow of the bear didn’t follow people, but seemed to spring forward going from one hill to another. Silly her. Shadows didn’t make noise.
A man ducked behind an evergreen.
She pressed her key fob, her heart pounding as she charged toward her car. Panting, she scooted in the driver’s seat. Her finger shook as she punched the starter button. She mashed the pedal to the floor, and the engine roared. Letting up on the gas, she drove the speed limit while checking the rearview mirror. Cars, trucks, and SUVs followed her.
Buy on Amazon
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FV919PCK/
~~~~~
Two Ducks of Destin
When we were in Destin, Florida, our daughter noticed a duck with a green head went everywhere a little brown duck went. The brown duck had a limp. If anything disturbed the brown duck, it quacked loudly in staccato voice. Soon the duck with the green head appeared, quacking furiously at whatever disturbed the brown duck.
Finally, my daughter asked the ladies in the office of the condo development where we stayed about the ducks. The manager said, “We noticed the brown duck’s limp and took her to the vet to make sure she isn’t ill.”
“Then, she’s okay?” my daughter asked.
“She doesn’t have any type of disease, but she has a deformed leg.”
My daughter’s shoulders slumped. “I’m sorry.”
“Oh, don’t worry about her. The duck with the green head is her husband, and he takes very good care of her. She’s fine, and they’re both happy here.”
You gotta’ love romance with a happy ending.
*****
Come along with me on the Dangerous Detour Blog Tour with Celebrat Lit
A review excerpt from BizWings Blog
The story is full of suspense, mystery, humor, and a sweet romance. I held my breath as each incident unfolded. There is an interwoven Christian theme throughout the story.
The main characters learn to trust, overcome their fears, and help one another.
The ending wrapped everything up nicely, with a few surprises.
Mary Hake Says:
What an intrepid journey! The book starts off with a bang—literally! On the way to spend the Christmas holidays with family, Ruthie has a car accident in the icy, snowy backcountry. With her rescuer, a football coach, they trek through the wilderness to search for shelter and to escape a deadly criminal in the area. The twists and turns seem to find trials and danger wherever they end up along the way. The interaction and reactions of the main characters seem quite realistic as they get to know each other and work together to escape the perilous storm. It makes one realize how quickly life can change and how you never know who might be the person to help or the person in need. Although we may never face such a horrific adventure, we should be prepared for whatever God allows and ready to serve in whatever way we’re called to do so. The exciting story isn’t too scary, so enjoy it any time of year.
The handsome guy above is Moose, a football coach. The cute woman is Ruthie, an advanced grammar instrustor.
Photo Below: The book takes place in winter in the North Carolina Mountains pictured here.
From the Texas Book-aholic
Stranded in a car in a snowstorm starts this adventure into the unknown. Now I’m not a huge fan of driving alongside a mountain, but during a snow storm is even more unlikely for me. The author gave me chills as I read how Ruthie finds herself trapped on the edge of a road with her car inches from falling into a death trap. When Ruthie meets Moose, she realizes that her only way to survive is to go with him into the mountains to wait for help.
Moose seems like a great person but I couldn’t help wondering why Ruthie even for a second would go off with a stranger. When your instincts to survive kick in, she had no choice. As they venture off they run into someone who is dangerous. This person is not happy that he has been discovered and now Ruthie and Moose are on the run from him.
As I read the book I had to question why this stranger would continue to follow our main characters. Wouldn’t it have been easier to just let them go and find another place for to hide from authorities? This tells me that he is desperate and is not thinking clearly. What has he done that would cause him to risk everything to go after Ruthie and Moose? Well folks this shows how the author captures readers with a story intensely written and delves into the mind of someone who will do anything to keep himself from being captured by the police .
The story takes a turn that gives readers an illustration of God placing you in someone’s path for a reason. The ending is where you will find the beauty of faith, forgiveness and hope. I like how the author adds a character that needed guidance. When our characters are trapped will they seek God for direction? I would love to see this book made into a movie.
Moose and Ruthie flee the storm and find shelter in an old cabin. Little did they know the danger that waited there.
From Betti
Take 4 strangers, winter in the mountains and the author gives a story to keep you guessing. There is plenty of suspense, danger and wonderful detail of the woods in a winter storm. A professor, a football coach, and a young man trying to find himself all being chased by a killer, they think. Will they find their way out safely?
This book, received through Winged Publications and CelebrateLit, is an encouragement for us all to be ready, regardless of the circumstances, to share the hope we have found in Christ.
From Maureen
This story starts with a bang, well, bad weather and auto accidents, almost going over the railing into, well, it wasn't their time. Moose comes to Ruthie's rescue, and their lives will never be the same.
Soon you'll find yourself ducking bullets and not know when your going to be warm again.
I loved how these two go about touching other lives all the while they are trying to survive.
With bullets flying, and no matter how far they flee, they seem to be found with more bullets, and cold! This is a fast paced, full of action read, and a page turner for answers!
This is a faith based read, and when the answers come, and in the end there is a strong feeling of forgiveness. There is also a sweet romance!
From Kendra
An excerpt form a 5-star review of Dangerous Detour. Ruthie and Moose have wrecked their cars in a storm. The reviewer, Kendra says, “They abandon their cars and start heading into the woods with their Survival Gear, hoping to find warmth. They have someone following them and are cautious, especially when Bullets start coming their way. I really LOVE that the pair become close as they endure the Storm and the mystery man. They know they have feelings for one another, but hold out telling each other. I really enjoyed both Characters and their determination to keep each other safe. The book has many twists and turns and intrigue. I saw the Christian aspect in the book through the characters trusting each other and God. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Romance and Mystery will enjoy this book. WONDERFUL BOOK!”
From Leslie
I absolutely love Dangerous Detour by Gail Pallotta! I love that Ms. Pallotta has created the Discipleship Series and the Message of Hope she has put into each story. I loved meeting Moose, Ruthie, and Thad! I thought that the strengths of Moose, Ruthie, and Thad complimented each other well and helped them survive and thrive in the woods, in spite of the difficulties and with God’s Help. Even though the Characters and Readers spend a chunk of the story in the woods, to me, it was the catalyst of the story and the most important part due to the conversations that transpired. I love the conversations that were had about Forgiveness and how important Forgiveness is in one’s walk with the Lord. I love how Moose, Ruthie, and Thad started thinking of the Criminal differently because of these conversations as someone Jesus could still Save —if that Person was willing. I love how that also led to conversations about how to have and help someone with True Discipleship and an Authentic Relationship with Jesus, regardless of where that person may be (such as jail) and meeting them right where they’re at to share the Love and Grace of Jesus. I love that Ms. Pallotta didn’t let the Characters sugarcoat these conversations, but allowed real and raw conversations to flow, full of doubt and unease because you never know if the person you are Discipling will stick with their relationship with Jesus, but at the same time you are still full of Hope because you know that it is what God has called us to do. I am so thankful that Ms. Pallotta has created the Discipleship Series and has written Dangerous Detour! If you are looking for a suspenseful read that carries the Message of Hope and Christ’s Redeeming Love for all, I highly recommend Dangerous Detour by Gail Pallotta! I’m looking forward to seeing what God inspires Ms. Pallotta to create next!
Thanks for coming on the blog tour with me !
*****
*****
A Fun Interview
Would love to welcome you to the fun interview on Coffee Time Romance. They asked interesting questions about writing and the Discipleship Series. Just click the coffee cup to see the interview.
*****
The Hills Are Alive with Spring. Mountain Laurel and a Poem Painting a Close-Up Landscape View
Two Discipleship Books Set in Western North Carolina
Years ago, I brought a bit of Western North Carolina to my house as a small bush. I never trimmed it into a city shrub, but let it grow wild and free like in the mountains. My mountain laurel blooming season has ended, but it's still in season in Northern Western North Carolina.
Recently I set two books in a Discipleship Series in Western North Carolina. The characters in Hidden Danger and Dangerous Detour tell their stories in the winter when cold air whips around the hills.
About Hidden Danger, Christian Romatic Suspense, Discipleship Series Book One
After Emily Hanover’s left standing at the altar in Blue Mountain, North Carolina, she visits Sky High Campground to put her life back together. Because it’s February and few people visit this time of year, she’s alone on the premises. When noises in the middle of the night frighten her, she gathers her courage and peeks outside. A man carrying a body over his shoulder emerges from the dark shadows onto her front yard. She flees to the protection of her bedroom.
The next morning, she visits ex-military officer turned security guard, Nick Lancaster. He listens intently to Emily, but dismisses her claim of foul play as a hunter carrying a deer. After he sees a freshly dug hole in Emily’s yard and finds two more in the woods, he agrees—there’s suspicious activity. Then he and Emily embark on a mission exposing murder and a far-reaching sinister plot, neither suspecting danger can bring romance.
Read the Top Author Award Review Here
Buy on Amazon
About Dangerous Detour, Discipleship Series Book 2
Four people face a winter storm in the wilderness. Two have lost their way. One has lost his purpose and one has lost his soul.
Headed home for Christmas vacation, Ruthie, a quiet professor, crosses paths with Moose, a football coach, on an icy blocked road in Western North Carolina. Amid a winter storm, they unknowingly take shelter in a killer’s hideout. Escaping under fire, they flee into a frozen, snow-covered forest. Trying to find their way out and shake the murderer, they dodge bullets each day until the temperature drops and the world turns quiet. Then, they set up camps to survive in the wilderness. Even though they grow attracted to each other, neither admits it until each of them suffers a frightening injury. Finally, they head to a house Ruthie sees in the distance. Will they meet a new friend, or a foe?
From a Five-Star Review: Gail Pallotta’s mystery romance grabs your attention on the first chapter. This is the second book in a series, and it does not disappoint you because of the suspense and all the cliffhangers at the end of each chapter. It was difficult to put down.
Buy on Amazon
Or buy as a pair on Amazon
A Close-up View of a Western North Carolina Spring
A poem about the landscape in Western North Carolina penned by William Paulk, my writing professor and a nominee for the Pushcart X: The Best of Small Presses, in 1984, for his book of poetry, The Beholden Hills.
The Gift
Through the crevice in a rock
From unknown depths below,
Twisting like a firefly in the dark,
Here, suddenly there, now here again,
With deceptive-seeming ease,
The little spring breaks forth at last
And bubbles from the soil
To form a pool and quench my thirst.
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Lemonade, ice cream and iced tea days await just around the corner. Here's a treat to try.
A Trifle by Any Other Name’s Still a Trifle
A Trifle by Any Other Name’s Still a Trifle
Webster’s dictionary describes trifle as “a dessert (as of soft fruit) served with custard and whipped cream.”
Some believe trifle originated from foole, an English dessert of pureed stewed fruit and sweet custard. According to Wikipedia the first recipe for trifle appeared in England in 1596, in a book, The Good huswife’s Jewell by Thomas Dawson. Later trifle lovers satisfied their sweet tooth by adding eggs and pouring the custard over alcohol soaked bread.
The Scots make a dish called Tipsy Laird which contains Drambuie or whisky. In the South, where I live, some people call that tipsy cake. Cooks today, who may or may not include the alcohol, might add jelly to their trifles. The earliest record of jelly in trifles dates to 1747.
Cleary, I can’t take credit for this recipe.
Actualy when I needed a yummy dessert for company, my neighbor, a trifle connoisseur, passed this Chocolate Trifle recipe along to me with one for a fruit and jelly trifle. The decadent ingredients in this one won.
Chocolate Trifle
Ingredients
1 (19.8) ounce package fudge brownie mix
½ cup Kahlua (may substitute four tablespoons strong coffee and one teaspoon of sugar)
3 (3.9) packages chocolate instant pudding mix
1 (12 oz.) container frozen whipped topping, thawed
6 (1.4) ounce English toffee-flavored candy bars, crushed (can use Heath Bar bites or
Hershey’s chocolate covered toffee candy with almond bits)
Prepare brownie mix, and bake according to package directions in a 13x9x2-inch pan. Prick the top of the warm brownie at one-inch intervals using a fork then drizzle with Kahlua. Let cool and crumble. Prepare pudding mix according to package directions, omitting chilling. Place one-third crumbled brownies in the bottom of a three-quart trifle dish or large, clear bowl. Top with one-third each of pudding, whipped topping, and crushed candy bars. Repeat layers twice with remaining ingredients, ending with crushed candy bars. Chill eight hours. Serves sixteen to eighteen.
I’ve told myself one of these days I’ll try the fruit and jelly trifle, but when I’m standing in the kitchen, ready to bake, I think I’ll hear the small voice telling me, you know you really want the sinfully delicious chocolate trifle. I’ll grab a piece of paper and start my list for the grocery—one (19.8) ounce package of brownie mix, Kahlua…
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Beautiful Songs for Easter
Photo Courtesy of Pixabay
What a Friend We Have in Jesus
How amazing to think there’s someone who cares so much about one’s life he wants to help with everything in it, take away every burden and hear about every care. (Listen to the song here) (Gaither Music)
How amazing to think there’s someone who cares so much about one’s life he wants to help with everything in it, take away every burden and hear about every care. (Listen to the song here) (Gaither Music)
What a Savior We Have in Jesus
The Old Rugged Cross
Jesus is more than a friend. As the only person free from sin, he endured persecution, suffered and died nailed to a cross to save sinners. Only someone with love beyond human comprehension would go through so much pain to give those who accept his gift salvation. (Listen Here) (Al Green)
The Old Rugged Cross
Jesus is more than a friend. As the only person free from sin, he endured persecution, suffered and died nailed to a cross to save sinners. Only someone with love beyond human comprehension would go through so much pain to give those who accept his gift salvation. (Listen Here) (Al Green)
Photo AI Generated
The Miracle
Then the miracle of all miracles happened. On the third day he rose from the dead. Some call him a prophet, but He isn’t. He’s our living God, with us today, pouring His love into our hearts when we open them to Him. (Listen Here)
(The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square)
Then the miracle of all miracles happened. On the third day he rose from the dead. Some call him a prophet, but He isn’t. He’s our living God, with us today, pouring His love into our hearts when we open them to Him. (Listen Here)
(The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square)
Photo Courtesy of Google
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So Who Was Saint Patrick?
St. Patrick, patron saint and apostle of Ireland, born in the late 4th Century, started his life in Britain as part of a wealthy Romanized family. He grew more passionate about his faith after Irish raiders snatched him from his father’s villa at age sixteen and kept him in captivity as a herdsman. Known for dreams that spoke to him, after six bleak years he dreamed a ship waited to take him home to Britain, and it did. However, he nearly starved and endured another brief confinement before he found his family.
Later while still in Britain, he had another dream. In this one he received a letter headed, “The Voice of the Irish.” Reading it convinced him a group in Ireland beseeched him to join them once more. Because he lacked what he believed was the proper education, he waited to respond. Once he did, doubts plagued him as he embarked. However, when his work began, he grew completely confident in the Lord and journeyed far and wide converting and baptizing non-Christians. Even though he dealt carefully with those who didn’t accept Christianity, he lived in constant danger of martyrdom. On at least one occasion, he was put in chains. History records him as “a most humble-minded man” praising God for choosing him as “the instrument whereby multitudes who had worshipped ‘idols and unclean things’ became “the people of God.”
Some describe his writings as having a rare truth and simplicity. His worst critic said, “The moral and spiritual greatness of the man shines through every stumbling sentence of his ‘rustic’ Latin.”
Legends surrounding him claim he raised 33 people from the dead and that he used a three-leaf clover to explain the Trinity.
After all of these centuries he’s still celebrated and amazingly by those who are not Christian, Irish or British as well as those who are. Many wearing green have no idea why, and others drinking green beer have no idea who St. Patrick was. These traditions have nothing to do with St. Patrick. He didn’t wear green, but the color is associated with Ireland, and we wear it to keep the Leprechauns from pinching us. If they see us, they’re sure to give us a pinch, but if we’re in green, we’re invisible to them. I guess we’ll never know if St. Patrick would’ve enjoyed all the fun we have on his special day or not, but after spending so much time getting to know the Irish people and learning their ways, my guess is he would.
St. Patrick’s Day occurs on the day of his death, March 17th, at age seventy-eight.
Information from the Encyclopaedia Britannica and Wikipedia online
Irish Cream Brownies
Recipe from WonkeyWonderful
Ingredients: ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup of all purpose flour; 1 tsp. baking powder; ¼ tsp. salt; 1 cup sugar; ½ cup melted butter; 2 eggs; ½ cup Irish Cream Whiskey
Frosting
½ cup butter – softened; 1 ½ cups powdered sugar; 2 tabls. Irish Cream Whiskey; 2 tabls. Unsweetened cocoa powder
Instructions for Brownies
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix together dry ingredients and set aside. Using a mixer, blend sugar and melted butter. Add eggs and Irish Cream. Mix. Slowly add dry ingredients while mixing. Line a 9 x 9 baking dish with foil, press foil down firmly and spray with non-stick spray. Pour batter into prepared dish and spread evenly. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 – 35 minutes. (until a toothpick can be inserted and removed clean). Allow brownies to cool before frosting. Once cooled and frosted, remove the foil and brownies from the baking dish. Carefully peel foil away from brownies and slice into nine pieces.
Instructions for Frosting
Combine butter and powdered sugar. Mix for 3 – 4 minutes, until light and fluffy. Add Irish cream and cocoa powder. Mix for one more minute.
Enjoy! Happy Saint Patrick's Day!
~~~~~
The Love to Read a Good Book Contest
Curl up with a cup of coffee or tea and a good book. Enter below to win twenty good books supplied by the Love to Read a Good Book contest.
One winner will win all twenty books by twenty different authors.
The prize value is $104.60. Enter between now and February 28th. Click here: https://kingsumo.com/g/1x9rzp1/love-to-read-a-good-book-giveaway
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Happy Valentine' Day: Spreading Love
Love on a Moment's Notice
A couple in their forties walked into a restaurant where my husband and I ate lunch. Tall and thin with pale coloring, the man dragged a medical bag with him while meandering as though he wasn’t sure where to go. The woman, also thin, with short, dark hair and blue eyes, motioned toward the booths. “Well, this is it,” she said in a questioning tone, as though she didn’t know how he would react.He nodded. After the hostess motioned toward a table in front of us, they sat down with the woman facing me. As they studied the menu and chatted between themselves, the woman knitted her brows.
I'll call the waitress, who walked to the table, Jane.
When the woman looked up and saw Jane, she nodded toward the man. “He’s never been here. Do you mind if we walk around for a few minutes to see the size of your portions?”
In a caring voice, Jane said, “Sure, go ahead. I’ll come back later.”
After the man and woman returned, Jane showed up. When they talked with her, even though I couldn’t hear their words, I watched Jane smile, nod, and point out items on the menu.
Within five minutes, the couple ordered. As Jane took their menus and moved closer to our table, I heard her say, “Yes ma’am, we can fix that however you like.”
Then, the woman asked her something else.
Jane said, “Of course, I’ll tell them to do that.”
After Jane left, the woman relaxed her shoulders, sat back in her seat, and talked with the man.
When Jane brought the food, a big smile spread across the woman’s face.
“Thank you so much.”
“You’re welcome. Enjoy your lunch.”
When we left, the man and woman talked and laughed as though they sat in a place as familiar as their own kitchen.
Sometimes, we have opportunities on the spur of the moment to care and show kindness to someone or not. We don’t always have time to ponder it, decide whether we want to lift someone up, or lend a helping hand, or not. When we have even a little of the love of Jesus in our hearts, we don’t need to think it over. It's part of us and shines in our lives like it does in Jane's, who brightened the day for two customers and made them feel comfortable, even though she was only required to take their order.
In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:16)
~~~~~
I'll call the waitress, who walked to the table, Jane.
When the woman looked up and saw Jane, she nodded toward the man. “He’s never been here. Do you mind if we walk around for a few minutes to see the size of your portions?”
In a caring voice, Jane said, “Sure, go ahead. I’ll come back later.”
After the man and woman returned, Jane showed up. When they talked with her, even though I couldn’t hear their words, I watched Jane smile, nod, and point out items on the menu.
Within five minutes, the couple ordered. As Jane took their menus and moved closer to our table, I heard her say, “Yes ma’am, we can fix that however you like.”
Then, the woman asked her something else.
Jane said, “Of course, I’ll tell them to do that.”
After Jane left, the woman relaxed her shoulders, sat back in her seat, and talked with the man.
When Jane brought the food, a big smile spread across the woman’s face.
“Thank you so much.”
“You’re welcome. Enjoy your lunch.”
When we left, the man and woman talked and laughed as though they sat in a place as familiar as their own kitchen.
Sometimes, we have opportunities on the spur of the moment to care and show kindness to someone or not. We don’t always have time to ponder it, decide whether we want to lift someone up, or lend a helping hand, or not. When we have even a little of the love of Jesus in our hearts, we don’t need to think it over. It's part of us and shines in our lives like it does in Jane's, who brightened the day for two customers and made them feel comfortable, even though she was only required to take their order.
In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:16)
~~~~~
Christian King Sumo Giveaway
Twelve Authors, Twelve Books
What fun! Something to keep us company. On those cold winter nights cozy up with a good book. Escape with Christian romance, mystery or suspense.
Book value is $65.88. The contest ends on February 3rd.
To enter click below.
https://kingsumo.com/g/1v98z7m/cozy-up-to-a-good-book-giveaway
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To enter click below.
https://kingsumo.com/g/1v98z7m/cozy-up-to-a-good-book-giveaway
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A Christmas Gift for Jenny, Based on a True Event
During the Christmas season hair flew fast and furious in the beauty shop my mother ran. Situated in a small town at the foothills of the North Carolina Mountains, the place overflowed with chatter. On Christmas Eve, until I started working in a department store during the holidays, I put the finishing touches on our dinner while Mother worked in the salon. I also received Mother’s gifts, which her customers placed on the back porch.
All day long they stuck their heads in the kitchen and called out, “I brought your mother a set of embroidered pillow cases. I’m putting them here,” or “I’m leaving your mother a bag of potatoes,” or “I’m putting a pie on the porch.” The presents ran the gamut.
One year I’d placed the casseroles Mother had pre-mixed in the oven and started to prepare Heavenly Hash, a fruit delicacy. I’d never made the recipe before, so I studied Mother’s directions carefully as I prepared each ingredient.
“There’s a mess of green beans out here.”
I flinched. “Thank you,” I said without turning around. I put pecan pieces the recipe called for in the mixing bowl and added a jar of sweet cherries and a can of mixed fruit. I still needed to cut up two oranges and a fresh pineapple, cook and chill a dressing for the salad then chill the entire dish before dinner. Reading the tasks remaining rattled my nerves. I took a deep breath. I didn’t want to mess up my dish for the aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents. Whew!
“I brought your mother chicken.” The sound of another customer wafted into the kitchen.
“Thank you.”
The pineapple with its bushy green top, which of course, made me think of hair, waited for me.
Cut into bite sized pieces.
As I picked up the knife, a noise drifted from the back porch. I needed to concentrate on peeling this pineapple and getting the Heavenly Hash in the refrigerator to chill. I tuned out the chatter from the back porch. I didn’t want to cut myself either.
What was that weird racket?
I finally made my way to the fruit part of the pineapple. The chopping went faster now. I only had a few more chunks to go.
There was that weird sound again.
I rinsed my hands and dried them. Then I flung the cracked door open all the way.
“Baak, baaak, baaaaak.”
I slammed the door, my heart beating against my chest.
I slowly opened the door and peeked at a pretty, white-feathered chicken that scratched and pecked uncontrollably at pies, potatoes, pillow cases and an assortment of other gifts including apples, calendars and cross-stitch pictures. The fruit salad stress was nothing compared to this. Was the chicken a pet, or would it peck me?
I summonsed Mother. We put the gifts in the kitchen and closed the back porch door.
I learned later, when Mother returned to her shop and mentioned the chicken, a young girl, Jenny, asked if she could have it. She’d wanted a pet chicken for quite a while. That day she got one. God does work in mysterious ways.
I’ve carried the love from those caring, Christian people in that small town with me my entire life. I wanted to bring back their spirits of friendship and community in Hair Calamities and Hot Cash, which has its roots (no pun intended) in my mother’s shop.
Learn more here. Just scroll down to Hair Calamities and Hot Cash.
Buy on Amazon
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Google Play
~~~~~
Stitches in Love, a Short Story from Messages, Poems and Short Stories to Live By
Rose's heart sank to her toes as she fanned herself. Grandma Jackie tilted back in the rocker, her pale face such a contrast to the red-flowered upholstery where she'd laid her head. Her blank blue eyes appeared to stare out the living room window without seeing the ripe fruit on the peach tree or the red rhododendron in the yard.
Rose expected to smell the scent of peach cobbler wafting through the house. Grandma loved to cook and often took gourmet dishes to shut-ins. Today, she looked like one, and the room had a sick, stale odor to it. Rose bent down and touched Grandma's thin hand. The skin stretched over bone and bulging blood vessels. What had happened to the Grandma who taught her to jitterbug?
"Hi. I'm home for the whole month of June. I'm coming to visit you every day."
Grandma Jackie lifted her head ever so slightly toward Rose, but she didn't utter a word, and no signs of life flickered in her eyes.
Rose stood and weakness swept over her like a hurricane coming ashore. She let herself out and locked the door with the key Grandma Jackie had given her seven years ago—the year Rose had turned sixteen. Sobs erupted from the depths of her soul as she slipped into her two-door coupe and drove to 143 Broadway.
Within minutes she walked toward the white-columned two-story home while she bent double holding her stomach. It was a hot, dry day in Springdale, Georgia. No breeze stirred, and the humidity as high as a kite. Air conditioning caressed Rose's face when she opened the front door. Clearing the foyer, she hurried up the oak staircase to her room. Tears flooding her eyes blurred the flowers on the pink and green comforter as she stepped to it and fell face-down on the bed.
Amy, Rose's mama, had called last week about Grandma Jackie's health. Rose could hear her distressed words now.
"Mama hasn't been the same since Dad died. She's been slipping away little by little. The doctors say nothing is wrong other than high blood pressure and cholesterol, but she's just not herself I've hired Miz Mary Clark, a local caretaker, to come during the day to make sure she takes her medicine and to tend to her personal needs."
That's why Rose had come home to see Grandma Jackie. It was worse than she had suspected. There must be something someone could do. She sat up and wiped her cheeks. What if she picked the peaches off the tree and told Grandma Jackie to make a pie? No. The last time Rose talked to Grandma Jackie on the phone she'd told Rose cooking at the homeless shelter wore her out.
Doing things for others pleased Grandma Jackie, but maybe she'd reached a time when she needed others to do something for her. What? She liked to read, but that wouldn't make her want to live. Sweat popped out on Rose's forehead. What did Grandma Jackie love enough to get up and do every day?
Rose balled her hands into fists and beat them on the pillow. Tears started building again, but she had to be strong like Mama and Dot. Would Dot work in the shop today? Could she help? Stay focused. Would Grandma e-mail and blog if she had a computer? Rose couldn't help but laugh. Some Grandmas maybe, but not her Grandma, the one who loved to sew and quilt.
Rose gasped. That was it. Grandma loved to quilt as much as she'd once loved life itself. She'd made quilts for the needy, quilts to raffle off to support charities and quilts for the elderly in nursing homes. She'd given it up when Grandpa Joe grew ill five years ago, but the community needed her quilts. It was a wonder no one was asking for one.
Excitement ran through Rose like electricity. She bounded off the bed, throwing items from her closet floor. The teddy bear Jake Wells, her fiancé, gave her when they went to the county fair in high school landed softly on the pale green carpet. She picked it up, hugged it and set it gently back in the closet. She tossed out two old tennis shoes and a pair of swim fins.
Finally. There it was, stuffed in the corner like a useless sack of clay with no potter.
Rose's hand trembled as she pulled open the white ribbon drawstring on the red velvet bag. The scraps, the treasures Grandma had given her, lay neatly folded, stacked and compressed. There must have been a hundred. Her enthusiasm dwindled like a flame dying. She couldn't sew.
But Mama could. If only she would take the time. Rose rushed from the bedroom and made tracks to Amy's Flower Shop, which sat beside the house in front of acres of hot houses. The back door squeaked when Rose opened it.
Mama stood in front of the only clean space on the large work counter, floral picks, shears and clay to her right; a stack of foam blocks, tape and the hand mister to her left. With her smooth, long hand she held a brown-eyed Susan. She picked up the shears and snipped the flower at an angle then plucked another from the pile in front of her.
"Oh, my heart just can't bear it. You have to help."
Rose's mother jumped then turned to face her. "I thought you were the UPS delivery person, setting the supplies I ordered beside the door. What on earth are you talking about?"
"Grandma Jackie. I went over there this morning. She looks awful."
"Honey, your eyes are swollen and red. Have you been crying?"
"How can I not cry with Grandma Jackie in the shape she's in, just sitting like a zombie in that rocking chair? Oh, how can you stand it? She's your mother. You have to do something."
Rose's mama stuck two of the yellow flowers with brown centers into a green vase then moved them around. "What else can I do? I've taken her to the doctor. He's prescribed medicine, and I've hired Miz Mary to make sure she takes it."
"Oh, don't you see. She needs a reason to get out of that rocking chair. If you'd make a quilt top—"
Dot appeared out of thin air. She put her hand on her trim hip.
As upset as Rose was, she hadn't noticed Dot. The woman had helped Mama in the shop and in the house for as long as Rose could remember.
"Miss Rose, how do you think your mama's going to get out all these orders for flowers and make a quilt top?" Dot ran her thin hand through her dyed blond hair. "All that education hasn't helped you a bit. What's that fancy degree you're gettin' over at the University of Mississippi?"
Mama glared at Dot. "When she graduates she'll have a PhD in education." Mama tilted her chin up. "She's going to be an elementary school principal. She's not going to stand on her feet all day like I have."
Dot's blue eyes widened. "That's my point. She's took leave of her senses thinkin' you can do anything more than this."
"I'll help. I promise I will. I can't sew, but—"
"Right. You're sweet as molasses, but you can't do much of anything." Dot blew out her mouth.
Rose couldn't hold back her tears. "Yes, I can. I'll do whatever Mama tells me."
"You look like your mama with all those blond curls and those big blue eyes. Built like her too, nice and trim like a model, but when it comes to gettin' anything done, you gone and took after your daddy."
"Where is daddy?"
Mama knitted her eyebrows. "Doa-ah-att. There you go again insinuating Ralph's not a productive person. He got up at four-thirty this morning and left at five o'clock to deliver wholesale flowers to the florists we service. He'll be back in three or four days."
Mama picked up another brown-eyed Susan. "I think Rose may be on to something. Mama would as soon quilt as eat when she was younger. If there's anything that might give her the will to live, quilting could. Let's make one top to get her interest. We'll tell her we need it quilted by the July fourth picnic a month from now to get her moving. As long as the design's not too complicated, we can finish it tonight." Mama held the flower in mid-air. "But what are we going to use for scraps?"
Rose wiped her eyes. "I have Grandma Jackie's."
Mama snipped a green stem and added the flower to the arrangement. "Yes, in that bag she gave you when Dad got sick. I'd forgotten about that. Okay, pick up the material and batting. After you've washed and pressed the fabric, come get Dot. The two of you can get started."
"Least we don't have to cook Ralph's supper. We can work on the quilt top and fix us a sandwich." Dot hung her head. "I hate ta' see Miz Jackie in the shape she's in too. I'd like us to do this, Miss Rose, as long as you do your part, so your mama won't be completely exhausted."
Rose hugged Dot. "I will. You'll see."
Five years older than Amy, Dot had married Troy Raines before she finished high school. By the time Dot was twenty-two, Troy had left her with three kids to raise. Grandma Jackie hired Dot and let the children and her live rent-free in a little apartment built onto the side of the flower shop. Dot had always been like a protective older sister when it came to Amy.
Having her around was almost like having two Mamas, but there was only one Grandma Jackie, and she'd made a point of letting Rose know Rose was special. When Rose was in high school, Grandma Jackie took her shopping all the way to Atlanta for the latest styles. She talked Amy into letting Rose go places Amy might not have agreed to. Grandma Jackie and her best friend, Nellie Jones, took Rose and three friends to the beach at Gulf Shores, Alabama, the summer before they started high school.
She had to be all right. Rose left the house, went to the fabric store, returned then washed and pressed the material within two hours. By now, Mama probably had convinced Dot the quilt was a great idea.
Rose opened the back door to the shop. "Dot, I'm ready to cut out the squares."
Oh yeah, Dot was all smiles.
"I'm a comin'."
The two of them sat on the gray commercial carpet in Amy's sewing room and pulled the scraps out of the red velvet bag.
Dot fingered the last piece of material, brown with a tiny green line in it. She put it back in the bag. "That's for another quilt. We gotta' keep this simple. What were you thinking?"
"Let's use red, white and blue squares and put fireworks in the middle of the quilt. We'll create an explosion of colors from lots of scraps. Each one of them means so much to Grandma Jackie." Rose scooted the bag underneath the wooden table Mama used for cutting patterns.
I don't give you enough credit. You're smart like your mama. I'll make several patterns to use to create the fireworks. Are you sure you can cut all those little slivers?"
"Yes."
"Of course, you can. I'm sorry. I don't mean to be so hard on you."
"I understand. I know how Mama wears herself out working, and I know how much you love her."
Tears welled up in Dot's blue eyes. "She coulda' thrown us out when Miz Jackie gave her the shop. Why the day I heard Amy had taken over my heart nearly stopped. I'll never forget it."
"Mama wouldn't do that."
Dot blinked. "I know she wouldn't. I'm so grateful to her."
"Things have worked out fine for both of you."
"Yes. All right, here's the pattern, and here's a pair of scissors. I'll be cutting squares while you snip slivers. Maybe we'll have this done when your mama comes in tonight."
"We will." Rose sat on the floor and cut as precisely as she could. She recalled the origins of some of the scraps, but drew a blank with others as the thumbed through them then cut pieces off as many swatches as possible.
The machine hummed as Dot sewed together all of the squares. The ones with tiny pieces of multi-colored shades of blue, green, gold and red shot up in the fireworks image.
Rose stood and stretched, arching her back, as her mama entered and plopped down in the white wicker chair in the corner.
"Let me get my breath for a minute." Amy wiped her forehead.
Dot got up. "I'll sew or make sandwiches."
Rose jumped like she'd been stuck with a pin at the thought of Dot halting work on the quilt top. "Keep sewing, and Mama, you rest. I'll fix the food. Do you want me to call you or bring it here?"
Mama got up, meandered to the sewing machine and peered at the squares. She glanced at Rose. "We'll eat in here."
Within twenty minutes Rose placed a tray of sandwiches and lemonade on the wooden worktable and set three plates. Dot brought folding chairs from the small closet, and they sat down.
Mama took a bite of her turkey sandwich. "This is so good." She lifted a corner of the bread. "You put pineapple on here."
Rose raised her eyebrows and nodded. "I'm glad you like it."
Mama took another bite. "What should we do about the border? Something simple."
"I bought enough material to make two sides white, one red and one blue."
"That's a great idea." Mama swallowed the last of her dinner. "I'll add the border." She cut her gaze at Rose. "If you'll press it in the morning, we'll take it tomorrow afternoon after church." She looked from Rose to Dot. "Would you like to go with us?"
"Sure."
***
Rose, Dot and Amy tip-toed into Grandma's living room. She sat tilted back in the red-flowered rocker like yesterday, her face pale, her eyes distant. Rose wondered if she'd moved, though Miz Mary would have made sure she'd taken her medicine and gone to bed.
Rose carried the top, folded with the fireworks pattern exposed, and laid it in Grandma's lap. "We want you to quilt this for our July fourth picnic."
Grandma raised her head, a puzzled look flickering in her blue eyes. Then she touched the material, ran her hand over it, leaned over and stared. She straightened up slowly and glanced from Rose to Amy then Dot.
She fingered a piece of light green polished cotton, and tears pooled up in her eyes. "I made a dress for Amy out of this when she was five years old."
"I remember. I loved it." Now Mama's eyes got misty.
Grandma's thin hand moved to a piece of royal blue satin. "I wore a dress made out of this when Joe and I went to his Christmas office party in 1992."
"And this gold—" Her breath hitched—"my dress for your wedding." She reached out and hugged Mama.
"I'll be right back." Dot stepped out of the room then returned with the wooden quilting frame.
Within an hour Mama and Dot had set it up and had the quilt rolled on it with the fireworks displayed. Grandma Jackie sat down in a chair, picked up a needle, and pushed it up and down with her nimble fingers. She repeated the action, pulling the thread through, creating a rhythm as she sewed tiny stitches equal distances from each other.
"God bless that quilt," Dot said.
***
Thursday Rose walked in Grandma Jackie's living room with a basket of peaches she'd picked off the tree in the front yard. "I'm going to make a peach cob—" Joy ran up her spine like lightning as visions from the beach trip she'd made as a teen with Grandma and Nellie popped in her head. There sat Grandma's best friend, "Hello, Nellie." She rushed over and gave her a hug.
Nellie stopped working her chubby, wrinkled fingers. "You gonna' cook us a pie with those?"
"Yes, you ladies keep quilting. I'll be in the kitchen."
Nellie's guttural laugh rang out, happiness dancing in her brown eyes. "Sounds good. We'll finish this quilt and go to the picnic with you and your family. I'm sewing a new top for us. When you go back to school, Miz Mary will get our lunch."
Rose took happy steps to the kitchen.
*Originally published with first rights in Sweet Freedom with a Slice of Peach Cobbler, compiled by Jennifer Slattery © by Jennifer Slattery, 2013
Rose expected to smell the scent of peach cobbler wafting through the house. Grandma loved to cook and often took gourmet dishes to shut-ins. Today, she looked like one, and the room had a sick, stale odor to it. Rose bent down and touched Grandma's thin hand. The skin stretched over bone and bulging blood vessels. What had happened to the Grandma who taught her to jitterbug?
"Hi. I'm home for the whole month of June. I'm coming to visit you every day."
Grandma Jackie lifted her head ever so slightly toward Rose, but she didn't utter a word, and no signs of life flickered in her eyes.
Rose stood and weakness swept over her like a hurricane coming ashore. She let herself out and locked the door with the key Grandma Jackie had given her seven years ago—the year Rose had turned sixteen. Sobs erupted from the depths of her soul as she slipped into her two-door coupe and drove to 143 Broadway.
Within minutes she walked toward the white-columned two-story home while she bent double holding her stomach. It was a hot, dry day in Springdale, Georgia. No breeze stirred, and the humidity as high as a kite. Air conditioning caressed Rose's face when she opened the front door. Clearing the foyer, she hurried up the oak staircase to her room. Tears flooding her eyes blurred the flowers on the pink and green comforter as she stepped to it and fell face-down on the bed.
Amy, Rose's mama, had called last week about Grandma Jackie's health. Rose could hear her distressed words now.
"Mama hasn't been the same since Dad died. She's been slipping away little by little. The doctors say nothing is wrong other than high blood pressure and cholesterol, but she's just not herself I've hired Miz Mary Clark, a local caretaker, to come during the day to make sure she takes her medicine and to tend to her personal needs."
That's why Rose had come home to see Grandma Jackie. It was worse than she had suspected. There must be something someone could do. She sat up and wiped her cheeks. What if she picked the peaches off the tree and told Grandma Jackie to make a pie? No. The last time Rose talked to Grandma Jackie on the phone she'd told Rose cooking at the homeless shelter wore her out.
Doing things for others pleased Grandma Jackie, but maybe she'd reached a time when she needed others to do something for her. What? She liked to read, but that wouldn't make her want to live. Sweat popped out on Rose's forehead. What did Grandma Jackie love enough to get up and do every day?
Rose balled her hands into fists and beat them on the pillow. Tears started building again, but she had to be strong like Mama and Dot. Would Dot work in the shop today? Could she help? Stay focused. Would Grandma e-mail and blog if she had a computer? Rose couldn't help but laugh. Some Grandmas maybe, but not her Grandma, the one who loved to sew and quilt.
Rose gasped. That was it. Grandma loved to quilt as much as she'd once loved life itself. She'd made quilts for the needy, quilts to raffle off to support charities and quilts for the elderly in nursing homes. She'd given it up when Grandpa Joe grew ill five years ago, but the community needed her quilts. It was a wonder no one was asking for one.
Excitement ran through Rose like electricity. She bounded off the bed, throwing items from her closet floor. The teddy bear Jake Wells, her fiancé, gave her when they went to the county fair in high school landed softly on the pale green carpet. She picked it up, hugged it and set it gently back in the closet. She tossed out two old tennis shoes and a pair of swim fins.
Finally. There it was, stuffed in the corner like a useless sack of clay with no potter.
Rose's hand trembled as she pulled open the white ribbon drawstring on the red velvet bag. The scraps, the treasures Grandma had given her, lay neatly folded, stacked and compressed. There must have been a hundred. Her enthusiasm dwindled like a flame dying. She couldn't sew.
But Mama could. If only she would take the time. Rose rushed from the bedroom and made tracks to Amy's Flower Shop, which sat beside the house in front of acres of hot houses. The back door squeaked when Rose opened it.
Mama stood in front of the only clean space on the large work counter, floral picks, shears and clay to her right; a stack of foam blocks, tape and the hand mister to her left. With her smooth, long hand she held a brown-eyed Susan. She picked up the shears and snipped the flower at an angle then plucked another from the pile in front of her.
"Oh, my heart just can't bear it. You have to help."
Rose's mother jumped then turned to face her. "I thought you were the UPS delivery person, setting the supplies I ordered beside the door. What on earth are you talking about?"
"Grandma Jackie. I went over there this morning. She looks awful."
"Honey, your eyes are swollen and red. Have you been crying?"
"How can I not cry with Grandma Jackie in the shape she's in, just sitting like a zombie in that rocking chair? Oh, how can you stand it? She's your mother. You have to do something."
Rose's mama stuck two of the yellow flowers with brown centers into a green vase then moved them around. "What else can I do? I've taken her to the doctor. He's prescribed medicine, and I've hired Miz Mary to make sure she takes it."
"Oh, don't you see. She needs a reason to get out of that rocking chair. If you'd make a quilt top—"
Dot appeared out of thin air. She put her hand on her trim hip.
As upset as Rose was, she hadn't noticed Dot. The woman had helped Mama in the shop and in the house for as long as Rose could remember.
"Miss Rose, how do you think your mama's going to get out all these orders for flowers and make a quilt top?" Dot ran her thin hand through her dyed blond hair. "All that education hasn't helped you a bit. What's that fancy degree you're gettin' over at the University of Mississippi?"
Mama glared at Dot. "When she graduates she'll have a PhD in education." Mama tilted her chin up. "She's going to be an elementary school principal. She's not going to stand on her feet all day like I have."
Dot's blue eyes widened. "That's my point. She's took leave of her senses thinkin' you can do anything more than this."
"I'll help. I promise I will. I can't sew, but—"
"Right. You're sweet as molasses, but you can't do much of anything." Dot blew out her mouth.
Rose couldn't hold back her tears. "Yes, I can. I'll do whatever Mama tells me."
"You look like your mama with all those blond curls and those big blue eyes. Built like her too, nice and trim like a model, but when it comes to gettin' anything done, you gone and took after your daddy."
"Where is daddy?"
Mama knitted her eyebrows. "Doa-ah-att. There you go again insinuating Ralph's not a productive person. He got up at four-thirty this morning and left at five o'clock to deliver wholesale flowers to the florists we service. He'll be back in three or four days."
Mama picked up another brown-eyed Susan. "I think Rose may be on to something. Mama would as soon quilt as eat when she was younger. If there's anything that might give her the will to live, quilting could. Let's make one top to get her interest. We'll tell her we need it quilted by the July fourth picnic a month from now to get her moving. As long as the design's not too complicated, we can finish it tonight." Mama held the flower in mid-air. "But what are we going to use for scraps?"
Rose wiped her eyes. "I have Grandma Jackie's."
Mama snipped a green stem and added the flower to the arrangement. "Yes, in that bag she gave you when Dad got sick. I'd forgotten about that. Okay, pick up the material and batting. After you've washed and pressed the fabric, come get Dot. The two of you can get started."
"Least we don't have to cook Ralph's supper. We can work on the quilt top and fix us a sandwich." Dot hung her head. "I hate ta' see Miz Jackie in the shape she's in too. I'd like us to do this, Miss Rose, as long as you do your part, so your mama won't be completely exhausted."
Rose hugged Dot. "I will. You'll see."
Five years older than Amy, Dot had married Troy Raines before she finished high school. By the time Dot was twenty-two, Troy had left her with three kids to raise. Grandma Jackie hired Dot and let the children and her live rent-free in a little apartment built onto the side of the flower shop. Dot had always been like a protective older sister when it came to Amy.
Having her around was almost like having two Mamas, but there was only one Grandma Jackie, and she'd made a point of letting Rose know Rose was special. When Rose was in high school, Grandma Jackie took her shopping all the way to Atlanta for the latest styles. She talked Amy into letting Rose go places Amy might not have agreed to. Grandma Jackie and her best friend, Nellie Jones, took Rose and three friends to the beach at Gulf Shores, Alabama, the summer before they started high school.
She had to be all right. Rose left the house, went to the fabric store, returned then washed and pressed the material within two hours. By now, Mama probably had convinced Dot the quilt was a great idea.
Rose opened the back door to the shop. "Dot, I'm ready to cut out the squares."
Oh yeah, Dot was all smiles.
"I'm a comin'."
The two of them sat on the gray commercial carpet in Amy's sewing room and pulled the scraps out of the red velvet bag.
Dot fingered the last piece of material, brown with a tiny green line in it. She put it back in the bag. "That's for another quilt. We gotta' keep this simple. What were you thinking?"
"Let's use red, white and blue squares and put fireworks in the middle of the quilt. We'll create an explosion of colors from lots of scraps. Each one of them means so much to Grandma Jackie." Rose scooted the bag underneath the wooden table Mama used for cutting patterns.
I don't give you enough credit. You're smart like your mama. I'll make several patterns to use to create the fireworks. Are you sure you can cut all those little slivers?"
"Yes."
"Of course, you can. I'm sorry. I don't mean to be so hard on you."
"I understand. I know how Mama wears herself out working, and I know how much you love her."
Tears welled up in Dot's blue eyes. "She coulda' thrown us out when Miz Jackie gave her the shop. Why the day I heard Amy had taken over my heart nearly stopped. I'll never forget it."
"Mama wouldn't do that."
Dot blinked. "I know she wouldn't. I'm so grateful to her."
"Things have worked out fine for both of you."
"Yes. All right, here's the pattern, and here's a pair of scissors. I'll be cutting squares while you snip slivers. Maybe we'll have this done when your mama comes in tonight."
"We will." Rose sat on the floor and cut as precisely as she could. She recalled the origins of some of the scraps, but drew a blank with others as the thumbed through them then cut pieces off as many swatches as possible.
The machine hummed as Dot sewed together all of the squares. The ones with tiny pieces of multi-colored shades of blue, green, gold and red shot up in the fireworks image.
Rose stood and stretched, arching her back, as her mama entered and plopped down in the white wicker chair in the corner.
"Let me get my breath for a minute." Amy wiped her forehead.
Dot got up. "I'll sew or make sandwiches."
Rose jumped like she'd been stuck with a pin at the thought of Dot halting work on the quilt top. "Keep sewing, and Mama, you rest. I'll fix the food. Do you want me to call you or bring it here?"
Mama got up, meandered to the sewing machine and peered at the squares. She glanced at Rose. "We'll eat in here."
Within twenty minutes Rose placed a tray of sandwiches and lemonade on the wooden worktable and set three plates. Dot brought folding chairs from the small closet, and they sat down.
Mama took a bite of her turkey sandwich. "This is so good." She lifted a corner of the bread. "You put pineapple on here."
Rose raised her eyebrows and nodded. "I'm glad you like it."
Mama took another bite. "What should we do about the border? Something simple."
"I bought enough material to make two sides white, one red and one blue."
"That's a great idea." Mama swallowed the last of her dinner. "I'll add the border." She cut her gaze at Rose. "If you'll press it in the morning, we'll take it tomorrow afternoon after church." She looked from Rose to Dot. "Would you like to go with us?"
"Sure."
***
Rose, Dot and Amy tip-toed into Grandma's living room. She sat tilted back in the red-flowered rocker like yesterday, her face pale, her eyes distant. Rose wondered if she'd moved, though Miz Mary would have made sure she'd taken her medicine and gone to bed.
Rose carried the top, folded with the fireworks pattern exposed, and laid it in Grandma's lap. "We want you to quilt this for our July fourth picnic."
Grandma raised her head, a puzzled look flickering in her blue eyes. Then she touched the material, ran her hand over it, leaned over and stared. She straightened up slowly and glanced from Rose to Amy then Dot.
She fingered a piece of light green polished cotton, and tears pooled up in her eyes. "I made a dress for Amy out of this when she was five years old."
"I remember. I loved it." Now Mama's eyes got misty.
Grandma's thin hand moved to a piece of royal blue satin. "I wore a dress made out of this when Joe and I went to his Christmas office party in 1992."
"And this gold—" Her breath hitched—"my dress for your wedding." She reached out and hugged Mama.
"I'll be right back." Dot stepped out of the room then returned with the wooden quilting frame.
Within an hour Mama and Dot had set it up and had the quilt rolled on it with the fireworks displayed. Grandma Jackie sat down in a chair, picked up a needle, and pushed it up and down with her nimble fingers. She repeated the action, pulling the thread through, creating a rhythm as she sewed tiny stitches equal distances from each other.
"God bless that quilt," Dot said.
***
Thursday Rose walked in Grandma Jackie's living room with a basket of peaches she'd picked off the tree in the front yard. "I'm going to make a peach cob—" Joy ran up her spine like lightning as visions from the beach trip she'd made as a teen with Grandma and Nellie popped in her head. There sat Grandma's best friend, "Hello, Nellie." She rushed over and gave her a hug.
Nellie stopped working her chubby, wrinkled fingers. "You gonna' cook us a pie with those?"
"Yes, you ladies keep quilting. I'll be in the kitchen."
Nellie's guttural laugh rang out, happiness dancing in her brown eyes. "Sounds good. We'll finish this quilt and go to the picnic with you and your family. I'm sewing a new top for us. When you go back to school, Miz Mary will get our lunch."
Rose took happy steps to the kitchen.
*Originally published with first rights in Sweet Freedom with a Slice of Peach Cobbler, compiled by Jennifer Slattery © by Jennifer Slattery, 2013
Top Author Review for Hidden Danger, Christian Romantic Suspense, Discipleship Series Book 1
Book Review: Hidden Danger by Gail Pallotta
When I started Hidden Danger by Gail Pallotta, I could sense that it was going to be a suspenseful ride, and it did not disappoint. This book, the first in the Discipleship Series, is a mix of Christian values, romance, and a good old-fashioned mystery that kept me hooked to the book. The author Gail Pallotta doesn’t just tell a story; she crafts an experience that pulls you in with its twists and turns, relatable characters, and thought-provoking themes of faith and redemption. It’s the kind of book that hooks you from the start and refuses to let go until the very last page.
The Plot
After being left at the altar in Blue Mountain, North Carolina, Emily Hanover retreats to the quiet Sky High Campground to put her life back together. It’s off-season, and she finds herself alone, hoping to find peace. But her calm is shattered when strange noises wake her in the middle of the night. Looking outside, she’s horrified to see a shadowy figure carrying what seems like a body across her yard, throwing her into a state of panic.
Seeking help, Emily turns to Nick Lancaster, the campground’s tough security guard and former military officer. Though initially doubtful of Emily’s story, Nick becomes concerned after discovering freshly dug holes around the campground. Together, they start to unravel a dark scheme that poses a greater threat than they could have imagined. As Emily and Nick dig deeper, they find themselves caught in a dangerous game—and unexpectedly drawn to each other. But with secrets lurking in the shadows, will they be able to trust each other long enough to survive?
What we liked
What I liked about Hidden Danger is how Gail Pallotta weaves themes of faith into the story without feeling too heavy-handed. The idea that even a little faith, as small as a mustard seed, can help you through tough times is naturally integrated into the narrative. Emily and Nick both struggle with their faith, making them feel like real, relatable people. Emily is trying to pick up the pieces after being left behind, and Nick battles his own shadows from his military days. Their chemistry builds organically, and their gradual trust in each other is believable and engaging. The stakes rise as they uncover a sinister plot far more intricate than they initially imagined, showcasing Pallotta's skill as a storyteller.
Gail’s writing is clear and easy to follow, making this book a quick read. She deftly incorporates biblical principles without being preachy, resonating with Christian readers and those who appreciate a well-told tale of love and danger. The recurring themes - God's love, faith as small as a mustard seed, and witnessing to others - are seamlessly woven into the plot. As Emily and Nick grapple with the unfolding mystery, they also wrestle with their faith, giving the novel a deeper, more introspective dimension.
The romance between Emily and Nick is sweet and builds up slowly, which I loved. Their connection felt real and not rushed, which is a big plus. Their relationship isn’t just about attraction; it’s about trust, respect, and shared beliefs, making it even more meaningful.
The Author – Gail Pallotta
Award-winning author Gail Pallotta is a devoted wife, mother, avid swimmer, and bargain shopper who finds joy in God, beach sunsets, and spending time with friends and family. A 2013 Grace Awards finalist, she also earned a Reader’s Favorite 2017 Book Award and was a TopShelf 2020 Book Awards finalist. Gail has authored seven books, along with poems, short stories, and hundreds of articles. Notably, some of her articles are featured in anthologies, and two have found their way into museum collections. Gail loves connecting with her readers. Stay updated by signing up for her newsletter www.gailpallotta.com/mainphp.html and explore her work on her website at gailpallotta.com.
Conclusion
By the end of Hidden Danger, I felt like I’d been on a real journey—not just through a mystery, but also through faith and healing. Gail Pallotta has crafted a story that will appeal to fans of Christian fiction and romantic suspense alike. She reminds us that in the face of danger and uncertainty, faith can be our strongest ally—and sometimes, it can also lead us to unexpected love. It’s a feel-good book that’ll keep you on the edge of your seat and leave you with a smile. For readers looking for a book that combines the thrill of mystery with the warmth of a faith-filled romance, Hidden Danger is a highly recommended read. Buy on Amazon
When I started Hidden Danger by Gail Pallotta, I could sense that it was going to be a suspenseful ride, and it did not disappoint. This book, the first in the Discipleship Series, is a mix of Christian values, romance, and a good old-fashioned mystery that kept me hooked to the book. The author Gail Pallotta doesn’t just tell a story; she crafts an experience that pulls you in with its twists and turns, relatable characters, and thought-provoking themes of faith and redemption. It’s the kind of book that hooks you from the start and refuses to let go until the very last page.
The Plot
After being left at the altar in Blue Mountain, North Carolina, Emily Hanover retreats to the quiet Sky High Campground to put her life back together. It’s off-season, and she finds herself alone, hoping to find peace. But her calm is shattered when strange noises wake her in the middle of the night. Looking outside, she’s horrified to see a shadowy figure carrying what seems like a body across her yard, throwing her into a state of panic.
Seeking help, Emily turns to Nick Lancaster, the campground’s tough security guard and former military officer. Though initially doubtful of Emily’s story, Nick becomes concerned after discovering freshly dug holes around the campground. Together, they start to unravel a dark scheme that poses a greater threat than they could have imagined. As Emily and Nick dig deeper, they find themselves caught in a dangerous game—and unexpectedly drawn to each other. But with secrets lurking in the shadows, will they be able to trust each other long enough to survive?
What we liked
What I liked about Hidden Danger is how Gail Pallotta weaves themes of faith into the story without feeling too heavy-handed. The idea that even a little faith, as small as a mustard seed, can help you through tough times is naturally integrated into the narrative. Emily and Nick both struggle with their faith, making them feel like real, relatable people. Emily is trying to pick up the pieces after being left behind, and Nick battles his own shadows from his military days. Their chemistry builds organically, and their gradual trust in each other is believable and engaging. The stakes rise as they uncover a sinister plot far more intricate than they initially imagined, showcasing Pallotta's skill as a storyteller.
Gail’s writing is clear and easy to follow, making this book a quick read. She deftly incorporates biblical principles without being preachy, resonating with Christian readers and those who appreciate a well-told tale of love and danger. The recurring themes - God's love, faith as small as a mustard seed, and witnessing to others - are seamlessly woven into the plot. As Emily and Nick grapple with the unfolding mystery, they also wrestle with their faith, giving the novel a deeper, more introspective dimension.
The romance between Emily and Nick is sweet and builds up slowly, which I loved. Their connection felt real and not rushed, which is a big plus. Their relationship isn’t just about attraction; it’s about trust, respect, and shared beliefs, making it even more meaningful.
The Author – Gail Pallotta
Award-winning author Gail Pallotta is a devoted wife, mother, avid swimmer, and bargain shopper who finds joy in God, beach sunsets, and spending time with friends and family. A 2013 Grace Awards finalist, she also earned a Reader’s Favorite 2017 Book Award and was a TopShelf 2020 Book Awards finalist. Gail has authored seven books, along with poems, short stories, and hundreds of articles. Notably, some of her articles are featured in anthologies, and two have found their way into museum collections. Gail loves connecting with her readers. Stay updated by signing up for her newsletter www.gailpallotta.com/mainphp.html and explore her work on her website at gailpallotta.com.
Conclusion
By the end of Hidden Danger, I felt like I’d been on a real journey—not just through a mystery, but also through faith and healing. Gail Pallotta has crafted a story that will appeal to fans of Christian fiction and romantic suspense alike. She reminds us that in the face of danger and uncertainty, faith can be our strongest ally—and sometimes, it can also lead us to unexpected love. It’s a feel-good book that’ll keep you on the edge of your seat and leave you with a smile. For readers looking for a book that combines the thrill of mystery with the warmth of a faith-filled romance, Hidden Danger is a highly recommended read. Buy on Amazon
Bloom in Your Winter Season
My friend, Deborah Malone, has compiled a devotional book devoted to ways we can serve as we age. Twenty-three authors contributed including yours truly. I'm sharing my devotional, taken from a true experience. I have included the application and prayer.
Women, The Gospel and Miracles
Once I interviewed a lady for an article about her family’s unusual home, a large log cabin in the mountains. While there, I mentioned how much I admired the beautiful wooden cross in her front yard. She smiled and told me the following:
The contractor, who ended up living on our property while building our cabin, was not a believer, but I talked with him about Jesus and His Gospel the entire time he worked on the house. When he finished, he brought the wooden cross in a large truck as well as quite a story to go with it. He had built the cross in two parts with notches to hold the pieces in place after he delivered them as a surprise gift for us. Because he wanted to see the cross all put together, he hoisted it into position in his yard, but when he tried to take it apart, no matter what he did, it wouldn’t budge; thus, the large truck, which he rented. Of course, I love the cross, but I also love what he told me. His experience building the cross, and especially his failure to disassemble it after numerous attempts, convinced him Jesus was calling, giving him a sign to give Him his heart, and he did.
This modern-day lady spread The Gospel just as Lydia, Joanna and Susanna, who assisted Jesus by using their gifts for Him. Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth who owned her home, which was rare for women in Jesus’s day, was a believer, but she’d never heard the Gospel until Paul preached in Phillipi. After listening to him, Lydia realized everything she had belonged to God. She then looked for ways to put her assets to use for Him, especially sharing her home to help those in need.
Joanna, married a wealthy husband, Cuza, who served Herod. Ill from either an evil spirit or a disease, Joanna was healed by Jesus. Becoming a follower, she traveled with Him and used her funds to help pay for food and other needs of His ministry.
Susanna, a rich Babylonian Jewish woman, was a victim of two judges who threatened to accuse her of adultery if she didn’t have sex with them, but she refused and called on God. Then God intervened and sent Daniel, a young man emerging as a figure of wisdom, to cross examine the judges. He revealed them as false witnesses and saved Susanna from a death sentence.
Susanna and Joanna accompanied Jesus to Galilee. Luke wrote that Jesus “went throughout every city and village, preaching…and the twelve were with him, and certain women, who had been healed. (Luke 8: 1-3) Along with other women, Susanna and Joanna went to help anoint Jesus’s body after His death. When they realized Jesus had risen, they were among the first to share the Good News.
Today women of all ages and walks of life have many opportunities to spread the Gospel, some in organized places such as Sunday schools, Bible studies, homeless shelters. The list goes on and on. But we should also keep our eyes open for one-on-one circumstances like that of the woman who witnessed to her contractor.
Application Question: Have you ever pondered Jesus’s words “go and make disciples of all nations” in respect to your gifts and talent, or has a small voice within ever compelled you to minister to a particular person or group? (Matthew 28: 19) If so, please share the experience.
Prayer: Our Heavenly Father, thank you for our blessings and protection. May we look to you for guidance in all that we do, share you love witnessing to others and spread the Word about our salvation in Christ. We give thanks to you, the source of every good gift, and ask for forgiveness for our sins. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
By Gail Pallotta
Buy on Amazon
Light Strawberry Summer Desserts and Books for the Lake, Beach, Mountains or Back Porch
Whether enjoying a lemonade and a snack while reading a good book, having tea with a friend or hosting a bridal shower, strawberries make the occasion special. See recipes below.
Whether enjoying a lemonade and a snack while reading a good book, having tea with a friend or hosting a bridal shower, strawberries make the occasion special. See recipes below.
For Reading Look for Cold Vengeance. For Reading and More Recipes Look for Cooking up a Mystery.
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About Cold Vengeance a New Suspense Novel by my Friend, Best-Selling, Award-Winning Author Nancy Mehl.
When a renowned crime podcaster vanishes without a trace, former FBI behavioral analysts turned private investigators River Ryland and Tony St. Clair are called upon to track her down. As they wade through the evidence she left behind, they unearth a startling connection--she may have discovered the existence of an unknown killer, and he will stop at nothing to carry out a deadly plan.
As the pair delves deeper, they soon find themselves the targets of a relentless enemy determined to silence them. With their lives--and hearts--on the line, can they confront the evil that threatens them before it consumes them both?
Buy on Amazon and other places where books are sold.
Learn more on Nancy’s Website
About Cooking up a Mystery.
There are over two-dozen recipes in the back of Cooking up a Mystery, each one named for a character in the book. They were donated by members of Mission Love Seeds, a charitable group created to help children throughout the world and to respond locally after disasters to demonstrate God's love. Learn more at Mission Love Seeds
In the book. Laney Eskridge worked to put her husband through dental school. Then he left with another woman. She's on edge from the emotional scars and her parents' deaths. Then she hears unexplained noises in her new tea house, and her anxiety is tripled. Add a budding romance with Eric—a guy with a fear of commitment—and it's all too much to handle. She cuts ties with Eric and plunges into making her business pay off.
When Eric discovers that Laney's in danger, he vows to protect her. But can he make a lasting promise? Will she trust him? . . .and when they overhear a threat that could cause national turmoil, will anyone believe them? There's more brewing than herbal tea in Cooking up a Mystery.
Buy Cooking up a Mystery on Amazon and all places online where eBooks are sold.
Learn more here
Strawberry Brownies
1 box strawberry cake mix (without pudding in the mix)
2 large eggs
1/3 cup oil
1/2 - 1 tsp. vanilla extract (optional)
Mix together box of cake mix, eggs and oil well. (It’s thick. I used my mixer.) Spray an 8 x 8 pan or use parchment paper (The batter is thick and sticky). Spread evenly. Bake 350 degrees for 17 minutes or until the edges are slightly brown. Do not overbake. (I used a toothpick to see if it came out of the center of the batter clean.)
Glaze
1 cup powdered sugar
1 - 2 tabl. water (lemon or lime juice)
1/2 tsp. vanilla extract (optional)
Note: You can use different flavors of cake mix and vary the flavors of extract. Vanilla for strawberry brownies and almond for white or lemon cake mix brownies.
The Busy Bee Seniors’ Strawberry Royale from Cooking up a Mystery
Ingredients
One-half cup coarsely chopped pecans
One cup flour
One-third cup brown sugar
One-half cup butter, melted
Four egg whites
One-half cup sugar
Two (10 oz.) packages frozen, halved strawberries, completely thawed
Three tablespoons lemon juice
One (12 oz.) carton frozen whipped topping
Mix flour, sugar, nuts and butter. Spread in a 9 x 13 pan. Bake at 350 degrees for twenty minutes, stirring often. Remove and cool. Remove one-third of the mix for topping and spread the remaining in bottom of pan. Beat egg whites until peaks form. Slowly add sugar and beat five more minutes. Fold in lemon juice and thawed, undrained strawberries. Mix thoroughly. Fold in whipped topping. Spread strawberry mixture over mix in the pan. Sprinkle reserved mix on top. Cover and freeze six hours or more. Remove and let stand at room temperature approximately twenty minutes before cutting into squares and serving.
Submitted by Leanora Harkins of Fort Walton Beach, Florida
~~~
Happy July 4th
God Bless America
Remembering a Yesteryear July 4th Spectacular at My House
On July 4th several years ago, I got up and dressed in blue jeans and a three-quarter-length shirt, attire a bit warm for the day. But perfect for the fireworks display that night, because there was less of me exposed for the bugs to bite.
During the afternoon it rained, but my husband, Rick, said, “It’s supposed to clear up. I don’t think we’ll have a problem going to the show tonight.”
We’d been to the fireworks before when it rained, even got caught in a storm there one year and waited an hour or so for the event to start.
The rain stopped. Rick and our daughter, Laurie, who always came home to go to the July 4th fireworks, dressed in jeans. At twilight we grabbed a can of bug spray and our stadium seats and started out the door. A loud crack of thunder roared. We slinked back inside like wet puppies to wait until the sky cleared. It grew darker and the thunder louder. Lightning danced around our front yard.
Rick turned the television to a weather station. The radar showed red and yellow patches in a line of dark green headed right for us. “This should be gone soon. We’ll leave then.” More thunder boomed and lightning flashed.
In the background of the thunderous roar I detected faint pops. “Did you hear that? One of our neighbors must be shooting fire crackers.”
“Yes, but the thunder’s so loud I can barely hear them,” Laurie said. “I wonder if we’re going to make the show.”
“We still have time. When it lets up, we’ll leave,” Rick said.
But another line of storms showed up on the weather station. Rick’s lips turned down. “I’m not sure when this storm’s going to end.”
Trees fell in the neighborhood. It wasn’t safe to go out. We watched a clip of the fireworks show on the eleven o’clock news. I couldn’t help but wonder if this was God’s way of saying He wants to be part of our country. I still wonder that today.
~~~
Summer's Overlooked Malady
Summer means staying outside—swimming, sun bathing, going to water parks, having fun in the sun day after day. Approach the season with vigor, but also with care. We’ve learned to take steps not to get sunburned. We need to do the same to prevent nasty bug bites.
Most people know little about Lyme disease and don’t consider it a problem—until they get it. Some say it doesn’t exist. Others claim you can’t get rid of it. I know it exists because I have chronic Lyme disease. When I grew ill, after a month of testing no one could diagnose my problem. The doctor said, “I’m sorry we can’t treat you.” I was devastated, shocked, and so sick I couldn’t think. God intervened and led me to David G. Lee, D.C., Ph.d., C.Ad. God and Dr. Lee have kept me active and on my feet for twenty years. During that time, I’ve learned a lot about this malady.
First, natural bug spray and protective clothing can prevent bug bites. Secondly, if a bite looks strange, unusually large, or highly irritated, especially if it’s accompanied by fever, chills, or any type of malady, see a doctor. A pill will get rid of Lyme disease while it’s only a bite. Even after it reaches the bloodstream, I V antibiotics will wipe it out. Act quickly though. If the bacteria, other diseases and parasites carried by the insect bite are left untreated, the illness becomes chronic Lyme disease. Don’t let that happen. The toxins are no longer at the site of the bite or in the bloodstream. They are lying in wait deep inside the body’s organs. The medical test for Lyme disease is a blood test. Unfortunately, but obviously, if the toxins aren’t there, they don’t show up in the results.
The bacteria are spirochetes that burrow into body tissue and form a hard shell to protect themselves. When a person’s immune system is down with a cold or other sickness, the bacteria emerge and attack. The parasites reproduce. There’s no need to fall prey to the debilitating ailments this disease can cause. Learn the facts.
After I grew ill and received help, lots of people contacted me about my treatment. That’s why I wrote Barely above Water, which gives valuable information about the symptoms and treatments for chronic Lyme disease and the myths about it. It’s a fun book to read. The facts are woven into a romance. There’s also a kids’ rag-tag swim team.
Here are two myths about Lyme disease:
People only get it from a tick bite.
If bitten by a tick carrying Lyme disease, the victim will know it because he or she will see a bullseye rash.
Barely Above Water is a 2017 Reader’s Favorite Award Winner
In her review for Reader’s Favorite Deborah Stone says, its “A lovely story with well-defined and well-developed characters, and a story line with factual information that will help, or at least educate, readers.” She also says “Gail Pallotta's story...resonates with hope when all hope seems to be gone… ”
To learn more about Barely Above Water click here and scroll down the page.
Buy Barely Above Water on Amazon
and anywhere online e-books are sold.
~~~
Most people know little about Lyme disease and don’t consider it a problem—until they get it. Some say it doesn’t exist. Others claim you can’t get rid of it. I know it exists because I have chronic Lyme disease. When I grew ill, after a month of testing no one could diagnose my problem. The doctor said, “I’m sorry we can’t treat you.” I was devastated, shocked, and so sick I couldn’t think. God intervened and led me to David G. Lee, D.C., Ph.d., C.Ad. God and Dr. Lee have kept me active and on my feet for twenty years. During that time, I’ve learned a lot about this malady.
First, natural bug spray and protective clothing can prevent bug bites. Secondly, if a bite looks strange, unusually large, or highly irritated, especially if it’s accompanied by fever, chills, or any type of malady, see a doctor. A pill will get rid of Lyme disease while it’s only a bite. Even after it reaches the bloodstream, I V antibiotics will wipe it out. Act quickly though. If the bacteria, other diseases and parasites carried by the insect bite are left untreated, the illness becomes chronic Lyme disease. Don’t let that happen. The toxins are no longer at the site of the bite or in the bloodstream. They are lying in wait deep inside the body’s organs. The medical test for Lyme disease is a blood test. Unfortunately, but obviously, if the toxins aren’t there, they don’t show up in the results.
The bacteria are spirochetes that burrow into body tissue and form a hard shell to protect themselves. When a person’s immune system is down with a cold or other sickness, the bacteria emerge and attack. The parasites reproduce. There’s no need to fall prey to the debilitating ailments this disease can cause. Learn the facts.
After I grew ill and received help, lots of people contacted me about my treatment. That’s why I wrote Barely above Water, which gives valuable information about the symptoms and treatments for chronic Lyme disease and the myths about it. It’s a fun book to read. The facts are woven into a romance. There’s also a kids’ rag-tag swim team.
Here are two myths about Lyme disease:
People only get it from a tick bite.
If bitten by a tick carrying Lyme disease, the victim will know it because he or she will see a bullseye rash.
Barely Above Water is a 2017 Reader’s Favorite Award Winner
In her review for Reader’s Favorite Deborah Stone says, its “A lovely story with well-defined and well-developed characters, and a story line with factual information that will help, or at least educate, readers.” She also says “Gail Pallotta's story...resonates with hope when all hope seems to be gone… ”
To learn more about Barely Above Water click here and scroll down the page.
Buy Barely Above Water on Amazon
and anywhere online e-books are sold.
~~~
Intervention
I carried the blue canvas stadium chair to the beach and planted it in the deep, white sand. A baby lizard lay in the seat. My husband, Rick, flipped it out with his hand and turned around to set up his chair. Tail and all, the tiny creature measured only one to one-and-a-half inches. It writhed in the grained earth.
Bright sunshine lit up the spring day, but the shore felt chilly to my bare feet. He must be cold. I stared at the lizard. His little arms and legs so thin; his fingers, like short pieces of thread, wiggled frantically. “Now you’ve done it. What are you doing in a beach chair?”
Rick sat down and gazed at the lizard.
“He can’t travel on the beach,” I said.
Rick stood. Using his foot, he scooped up a large amount of sand with the lizard atop it. He took several steps, and the sand filtered to the ground, so he flicked off the lizard and repeated the process. At first the little reptile squirmed as though he tried to escape. But after a while he lay very still while Rick moved him. At last Rick reached the fence in front of the dunes, where sea oats and vines grew. But the foot patrol wouldn’t work here.
“I’ll get a piece of a vine and put it up to the lizard. He can grab hold of it,” I said.
Rick raised his dark eyebrows. “You can try.”
I poked a stem at the lizard’s feet. He lay like a stone. I tried again and got the same result. Finally, on the fourth attempt the lizard wrapped those tiny legs and arms around the vine and held on tight. I threw him over the fence into a patch of greenery. As far as I know, he’s enjoying his new home.
I sometimes feel stuck like that lizard. I’m over-burdened and bogged down, often with problems or unpleasant situations. Like the lizard, I turn this way; then, that way, trying to escape. My mind spins so fast thinking of possible solutions, but I get nowhere. I think if I work a little harder, I can handle things. Eventually, I’m physically and emotionally exhausted. But I’m still writhing around in the sand. I don’t find relief until I turn my burdens over to God. He lifts me above them.
Matthew 7: 7-8, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.”
Suzie, the main character in Barely above Water, could relate to the story of the lizard. Bogged down with a mysterious illness, she turned every which way trying to overcome her malady. Then God intervened. Visit Gail's book page here and scroll down to see more .