Sunday, December 31, 2017

Thursday, December 28, 2017

The day after...

The events leading up to Christmas can often be trying. So much to do. Planning, shopping, cooking... And hosting.  After hosting the family Christmas Eve party with 41 guests in my home, this is what I did for the next two days.



Sometimes you just need to chill out!

Stay warm :-)

Sunday, December 24, 2017

Sunday Morning

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas!

Wednesday, December 20, 2017

The story of Two




Serving Hot Cider drinks, hot chocolate

or a piping hot cup of Tea...



At Christmas time I love to be able to change out the tables from casual to formal.

It's easy to change the dishes and change the mood.



Christmas is a special time to share hospitality with family and friends. And it's fun to change from casual or formal :-)
 

Tuesday, December 19, 2017

Red sky for Christmas

As I was driving home one evening, I couldn't help but be captivated by this beautiful red sky. Just perfect for the Christmas season :-)

Outdoor Wednesday
Skywatch Friday

Sunday, December 17, 2017

Saturday, December 16, 2017

Out of the Ordinary


After reading several books by Jen Turano, I was anticipating her newest novel. Set in the late 1880's the story revolves around Gertrude Cadwalader and her employer, the quirky Mrs. Davenport. It seems that Gertrude is constantly trying to keep Mrs. Davenport out of trouble. Gertrude's best friend, Harrison Sinclair, comes along side with some humorous results.

Although I have thoroughly enjoyed Ms. Turano's other novels, I found this one harder to read and to drag somewhat. Her characters were eccentric and hilarious but there was often so much mayhem that it left me wanting for depth. Maybe a little too much back story and scene description. Ms. Turano is an excellent author. I recently read A Change of Fortune and was completely enchanted. But Out of the Ordinary didn't draw me in as much as some of Ms. Turano's other books. 

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher. All views expressed are my honest opinion.

Wednesday, December 13, 2017

Christmas by the Waterway

While visiting friends, I was delighted with their Christmas table setting. They own a home right on the inter coastal waterway, so the big windows have a magnificent view of the water. Their Christmas decorations were very charming and the red and white made it all sing.


Don't you just love these red chairs?


It was such an inviting home to visit. And the fireplace added warmth on a cool evening.

Tuesday, December 12, 2017

High above the clouds



I love sitting by the window when I fly. The sky is so entertaining.

Sunday, December 10, 2017

Thursday, December 7, 2017

Eat in Christmas

Our eat in kitchen is very spacious and although not as formal as the dining room, we still enjoy setting a Christmas table.

Tuesday, December 5, 2017

Winter in Florida

With the hustle and bustle of the Christmas holidays ahead, can I share some nice warm pictures with you. We can sit back with a hot cuppa and dream of the warm days ahead :-)







Sunday, December 3, 2017

Friday, December 1, 2017

Dangerous Illusions


"Dangerous Illusions" is the first novel I've read written by Irene Hannon. A suspense novel that takes you on a trail of twists and turns.

When Trish Baileys mother dies suddenly, Trish comes under police suspicion. Detective Colin Flynn doesn't really know what to think about Trish. Yet he finds he is drawn to her. Is there an evil force that is throwing suspicion her way? All of the clues are steering towards something more sinister. Could Trish be in danger?

"Dangerous Illusions" was a perfect suspense novel.  Ms. Hannon's characters were well written. The weaving of Christian values and a bit of romance kept it interesting. About half way through, I figured out part of the plot, but the strength of the characters kept me reading. If you enjoy a good suspense novel, you might check this one out.


I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher. All views expressed are my honest opinion.