Ever buy a book that disappointed you? Or sit down in the evening to scroll through the shows and movies available only to struggle to find something good to watch? In general, I try not to watch too much tv, but when I do, I don’t want to watch something I’ll regret. So, I thought I’d share a few of the books and shows I’ve been reading or watching lately that have been positive and uplifting … [Read more...]

I know only Jesus (and briefly Peter) walked on water. But here in Minnesota, people regularly walk and even drive on water—frozen water, that is. If you live in the cold North as I do, you’re probably accustomed to people driving motor vehicles onto lakes. But if you live someone warm like California, Florida, or Australia, you might find this custom strange and surprising. I did. When I … [Read more...]

With many more people now working from home due to the pandemic, pet ownership has grown both in the US and abroad. The internet teems with articles about the pros, cons, and costs of pets, how to remain productive if you’ve adopted a needy pet, and debates about dogs vs. cats. Not long ago, my first-reader was trying to review my new manuscript to give me feedback and suggestions. She has a … [Read more...]

I was surprised and touched to receive an amazing gift from a talented quilter-friend: a quilt based on the coverlet Jane Austen made with her mother and sister. The original coverlet quilt is on display at Jane Austen's House Museum, which we visited during a group tour I was privileged to host in 2019. We saw the quilt (and much more) during the visit and I am honored and delighted to now … [Read more...]

I recently took an online class taught by The Regency Cook in association with the Regency Town House in Brighton and Hove, England. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. If you have the opportunity, you may want to check out his other class offerings for yourself. I mentioned mincemeat in two of my novels (The Silent Governess and An Ivy Hill Christmas) so I thought it was time I actually … [Read more...]