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Friday, September 6, 2013

September New Releases Tea Party ~ Featuring DEBUT Author Shannon McNear, Carla Olson Gade, Gina Welborn



Christmas comes early this month with Shannon McNear's debut novella in A Pioneer Christmas and Carla Olson Gade and Gina Welborn's novellas in Mistletoe Memories ~ two historical novella collections from Barbour Publishing. Do come in and help us celebrate.

Please enjoy some tea made with water from
Schooley's Mountain Springs and some delicious pumpkin scones.



A Pioneer Christmas -

Journey along with American settlers who learn that despite where the trail takes them or how primitive their lodgings may be Christmas is all about the heart. Determined to honor Christ's birth, these pioneers find a way to make Christmas happen in places like a cave, a tipi, and a dugout. Modern readers will enjoy a peek into life before commercialism took over the sacred day, distracting us from the true blessings of faith, hope, and love. Enjoy nine original novellas of Christmas romance, including Shannon McNear's debut novella Defending Truth.

About Defending Truth - On the frontier of western North Carolina, which will someday become east Tennessee, Truth Bledsoe keeps her family fed while her father is away fighting the British. When she discovers a half-starved, fugitive Tory, she’s not above feeding him, but to go past simple Christian charity to forgiveness seems impossible. To love would be unthinkable.

Micah Elliot has fled capture after the massacre at King’s Mountain, heartsick, battle weary, and ashamed of the cowardice that sent him westward over the mountains instead of eastward to home. Groping his way through a crisis of faith, he must discover and embrace what might finally be worth laying his life down for.

A note from Shannon:  The Battle of Kings Mountain (which took place in October 1780, not 1781, contrary to the timestamp on my story!) has haunted me since about fifth grade or so, when I read the novel Who Comes to Kings Mountain? by John and Patricia Beatty. Later, when I began serious research on the Southern Campaign of the American Revolution, I hunted down a copy of that kids’ book and was disappointed to find how NOT historically accurate the story is ... but the conflict of neighbor against neighbor, sometimes brother against brother, continues to tug at my heart. It isn’t for nothing that the Revolution is referred to as “America’s First Civil War.”



Mistletoe Memories -

For every house is built by someone, but God is the builder of everything. ~ Hebrews 3:4

One of America’s earliest summer resorts began atop the majestically wooded Schooley’s 
Mountain where the mecca of chalybeate springs (or “magic water”) drew visitors from near and far. Eventually the magic water disappeared, but the memories remained. Folks who live there tell the stories they heard from their grandparents who heard them from their grandparents. The four stories in MISTLETOE MEMORIES cover the almost 200 years after the house was built and center around a house that became a refuge that became an orphanage that became a home.



'Tis the Season by Carla Olson Gade (1820) ~ Stephan Yost, resident carpenter of Schooley’s Mountain, New Jersey’s fashionable resort, spends off-season working on repairs, renovations, and constructing new buildings. When he is hired to build a permanent home for the resort's physician and his spirited daughter, Annaliese Braun, in time for Christmas, Stephan finds himself enamored by the precocious spinster. But will he be able to compete for her affections against the advances of a manipulative iron baron?

A note from Carla: "George Washington slept here," claimed the renowned Heath House resort on Schooley's Mountain, NJ and they preserved the room he stayed in. This is just one of the nods at colonial history you'll find in 'Tis the Season. Other historical detail sprinkled throughout the novella, helping establish the setting of the collection, includes the the 18th century discovery of the mineral springs and the reference to the famous 1774 Old Stone Union church where one of the scenes is set. There are many more historical treats that flavor the novella along with the successive stories, each set in a later time period up until present day. Be sure to check out my story board on Pinterest

Mercy Mild by Gina Welborn (date) ~ As Christmas approaches, Civil War widow Marianne Plum thanks the Lord every day she never had children. Last thing she’d want is to raise a child alone. So when an orphaned girl arrives in town looking for her cousins, the charming and joyful Deputy Sheriff Ezekiel Norcross asks Marianne to give the child a place to stay. . .only until her cousins are found. Soon the girl’s mischievous exploits send Marianne repeatedly to Zeke, who shows her the greatest peace on earth comes with learning to give and to receive love.


A note from Gina: As I was researching, I came across a pdf called A History of Morris County New Jersey. It contained information about Company K of the 7th New Jersey and how many men they lost at Spotsylvania, Virginia, during the Civil War. My goal was to create a scene that would honor the men who served in Company K by bringing to life the facts that Zeke shares in his speech, including about the gift of the Bible to the soldiers and the various battles. See my Mistletoe Memories Pinterest board!

 
GIVEAWAYS:  One copy of A Pioneer Christmas Collection, signed by all nine authors! A copy of Mistletoe Memories from Carla Olson Gade. And anthor copy of Mistletoe Memories along with a beautiful table runner is being given by Gina Welborn. We also have a pair of sweet-smelling bayberry candles from Colonial Williamsburg to put you in the Christmas mood!  Please leave your email address with your comment to be entered.


Question: In Mistletoe Memories there are some mistletoe kisses that are quite memorable. What is a favorite kiss of yours: personally, in character, in a favorite novel? Is it a mistletoe kiss?
 

154 comments:

  1. I am so excited for Carla Gabe to becoming the author God has always meant her to be. I have watched her over 10+ years grow in the Lord and push forward even in diversity. You ask about a mistletoe kiss of rememberance; I would have to say the sweetest kiss was from my first grandson(now 21)when he was still a baby. God Bless you all. Janice Murray

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    1. Watch your hand there, Mrs. Murray--I've got a hot pot of tea for you and a dish of gingerbread with fresh whipped cream. God bless your grand baby. My name is Glenye and I was wondering if you are any relation to my own Mr. Murray--he's an indentured man sitting right over there in the corner. The handsome one. Welcome to our party for Mrs. Gade and the other talented authors!

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    2. Oh, dear Janice. You have always been on my side. I am truly honored to know such a wonderful friend. Grandson kisses are precious indeed, as I am getting to enjoy myself these days!!

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    3. What a beautiful tribute! I'm feeling blessed to be in such company today! <3

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  2. Janice, those grandchildren kisses are hard to beat!

    I'd love to read all these stories - you've really caught my interest with these little teases! I wish you all much success with these releases!

    Congratulations on your debut, Shannon!

    I must be off for a busy day but I'll be checking in later or send my fictional friend Tempest Shaw over for some tea later~

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    1. When Tempest returns I'll have a fresh pot of hot chocolate ready for her Mrs. Marvin.

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    2. Tempest, dear. Your name is truly unique...I fear that I am disappointed for not having thought of it myself. Thank you so much for your kind words of congratulations. And Carrie, for bringing the hot chocolate. So perfect for to celebrate Christmas stories with.

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    3. Thank you so much for the kind words! It is a bit disconcerting to have one's story told for the whole world to see, to be sure. :-)

      I look forward to meeting Tempest! She sounds like a kindred spirit. My uncles would tell you I'm too often a "tempest" rather than "truth" ... or is it that telling the truth makes me a tempest ... ?

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    4. Tempest Shaw here - And I thank you for your kind words, but I often disliked my name for it was only just recently I learned to speak up and assert myself when the need arises. For too long the name only suited what was going on inside my head!

      I do ask your pardon for arriving so late! How kind of you to have hot cocoa for your guests! I look forward to meeting Truth, Annalise, and Marianne and learning more of your delightful stories and those handsome gentleman who have captured your hearts!

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  3. Congratulations to Carla, Shannon and Gina on your Christmas stories. They sound delightful.

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    1. Mrs. Grunst, what a pleasure to see you this fine morning! Do come and in. It's quit cold out today, is it not? I'll bring you a delicious cup of chocolate directly. That is sure to warm you up.

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    2. Thank you, Mistress Grunst. I am honored to have written Mistletoe Memories with Gina and to share this celebration with Shannon for her debut novella!

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    3. Thank you kindly, Mistress Grunst! I so hope you enjoy our stories!

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  4. Question: In Mistletoe Memories there are some mistletoe kisses that are quite memorable. What is a favorite kiss of yours: personally, in character, in a favorite novel? Is it a mistletoe kiss?

    >>>The books sound lovely. My favorite kiss is not a mistletoe kiss. The movie Titanic when Jack kisses Rose for the first time standing on the bow of the ship!! Make me swoon! :-) What a kiss!!! :-)

    ~Cecelia Dowdy~
    http://ceceliadowdy.com/blog/

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    1. Cecelia, come in! Please allow me to take your cloak. I'm so pleased you could join us this morning for Mrs. Gade and the others. There's a fine seat available next to Mrs. Grunst, if you'd like. I'd be happy to bring you some pumpkin scones fresh from the oven. Chocolate? Why, of course. I shall return in a moment.

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    2. Cecilia, That was one EPIC kiss...requiring no mistletoe! My Annaliese in 'Tis the Season needed a little prompting. teehee

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    3. Pleased to meet you, Mistress Dowdy! And, oh, we're supposed to share about kisses? *blushing* I'm not sure I dare be so bold ... :-)

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    4. My second son desperately wanted to see Titanic. I finally consented but made him promise to close his eyes when I told him too. When movie was over, I asked him how he liked it. He said, "It's too bad we have to waste two hours to get to the last good 30 minutes."

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  5. All 3 stories sound wonderful! Congratulations to Shannon on your debut and congrats to Carla and Gina for continued success.

    A note to Carla regarding "George Washington Slept Here." In the town next to mine there was an inn (The Brookfield House) who can actually and honestly boast that George Washington DID NOT sleep there! The night the President wanted to stop there, the landlady had a migraine (so the story goes) and, not knowing it was the President, she turned away the potential visitor/customer. A little different than in your story. LOL!!

    Best wishes for you all. I'd like a pumpkin scone if there are any left.

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    1. What a blessing to have you with us today, Mrs. Doherty. So glad you come to celebrate our friends' success! There are plenty of scones left, not to worry. Let us know if you would like any chocolate or tea.

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    2. As a migraineur, I can commiserate with your innkeeper. I might too have missed such an opportunity. No headaches today so I am happy to enjoy this spectacular celebration and do appreciate your good wishes.

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    3. Thank you so much for your kind congratulations!

      I am sure that innkeeper felt properly chagrinned afterward! To miss showing hospitality to the venerable General Washington ... but I can understand the difficulty of the moment, if she thought he was just a stray traveler. When I think of how different my story might be, had I not shown charity to a ragged, starving Tory ...

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    4. That is probably more of an interesting story than all those places where Mr. Washington actually slept!

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    5. Hi Tammy!! Ladies, Tammy and I had the pleasure of hearing that story together from the current Innkeeper at the Brookfield Inn in Massachusetts! What a delight it was to meet a fellow author! It would be lovely to meet all of you one day in person. :)

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  6. *peeks in, tiptoes across the threshold, smooths skirt of blue linen gown*

    Hello! I'm Truth Bledsoe, and, well, I'm a little uncomfortable with all the fuss, but Shannon says I need to show some manners and come have tea. So. Thank you for having me! *curtseys* My, what a beautiful house. And real china--how lovely! The gingerbread scones and tea smell absolutely wonderful.

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    1. Shannon, dear! I'm so thrilled for you. . .beyond words! Do come in. I know all of this fanfare makes me blush, too, but how generous it is for Carrie, the ladies of Colonial Quills, and our many guests to encourage us so!

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    2. It's an honor to be here with both of you lovely ladies, and I couldn't be more thrilled for you! I've got a piping hot batch of scones fresh from the oven just waiting to be enjoyed. And I must say, Shannon, your gown is simply magnificent!

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    3. So very kind of you, Mistress Gade! And yes, generous indeed! I'm quite overwhelmed. :-D

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    4. Am back and have fetched some fresh chocolate fixings from Colonial Williamsburg. Oh dear, I fear everything around here is colonial so I needn't have mentioned that. One day we shall be independent, I reckon. Glenye Justice here in my new apricot gown. Mother finally relented and opened the purse strings for my upcoming dinner at the Wyatt's.

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    5. So nice to meet you, Glenye! And that's a most lovely gown.

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  7. Mmmm, these pumpkin scones are so delicious. *noticing Carrie's look, curtseys while wiping crumbs off mouth and off bodice of emerald beaded stomacher*

    Oh yes, umm, good morning to you all. 'Tis grand seeing you here. I've brought along a copy of Mistletoe Memories and a Christmas table runner to giveaway to one blessed commentor.
    While my novella takes place a bit after our lovely Colonial times (1868 to be precise), I included the delightful carriage Carla mentions in her story.

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    1. How sweet of you to add to the giveaway, Miss Gina.

      It was such a joy to participate with you in the writing of Mistletoe Memories! I loved seeing the house, carriage, and a precious character mentioned in your novella which followed mine.

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    2. Ooh, looking forward to reading this! And that is a lovely stomacher, Mistress Welborn. :-)

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    3. Tsk tsk those pesky crumbs--as a gentlewoman I'd not mention that fact (however some question my gentility so perhaps I would!) Delightful to see you here. Chocolate?

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    4. Thank you, dearest Mistress McNear, on the compliment to the stomacher. Beauty or breathing . . .

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  8. Good morning ladies!!! What a delightful party! I simple adore Christmas time. Huge congrats to you Shannon for your debut novel and congratulations to all the ladies for these new Christmas releases. Great Mistletoe kisses? My.. (her face reddens) I don't think I can share those here. ;-) Let's just say hanging up Mistletoe is one of my favorite holiday traditions. Oh dear, I'm simply famished. I do believe I'll have one of those scones, after all.

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    1. We shall forgive you for not sharing, dear MaryLu. A pirate kiss, at all?

      Thank you for the congratulations. It is always exciting when an author debuts and Shannon's story sounds wonderful and she has the honor of starting the book off. It was a pleasure writing alongside Gina for our Mistletoe Memories.

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    2. Hello, Mrs. Tyndall! I do have plenty of delicious treats today, so please come in and warm yourself. Can I get you some tea? What kind do you prefer?

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    3. Oh, I so understand your unwillingness to share, Mistress Tyndall! *blushes too* And thank you so much for your kind congratulations!

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    4. Oh, I can say for a fact that there are plenty of memorable kisses in each of MaryLu's novels.

      *She be quite the writer, Mateys!*

      Ooops, sorry, a bit of me 'pirateness' be comin' out. I guess MaryLu brings it out in me. ;)

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  9. Good morn to you all--at least 'tis morn for a few minutes more! I'm Elizabeth Howard, and I just stopped by for a moment to offer the greatest congratulations to Mistresses McNear, Glade, and Wellborn on their new releases. The stories sound amazing and must be added to my reading list!

    The first time Jonathan and I kissed is still my favorite, though it didn't happen beneath the mistletoe. Though there have been many since then, that precious moment will always stay in my memory.

    Ms. Truth, I'll join you in savoring those tempting gingerbread scones and tea. What a lovely treat for a beautiful September day!

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    1. Thank you for your kind words of congratulations, Miss Howard. First kisses are always to be remembered!

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    2. I'm so excited for you, Ms. Glade. And you are so right about first kisses. :-)

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    3. Miss Howard! So lively to see you. 'Tis a joy to get to celebrate the success of our dear friends, is it not? And I must agree, 'tis a beautiful day, though I will admit quit chilly. Please come in and I'll bring you a tray of treats directly.

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    4. Ohh, first kisses...I really am blushing now. We folk over the mountains don't do mistletoe (no such pagan traditions among those of Presbyterian leanings) but, well, shall I say I am shocked and dismayed to find out how much I enjoyed a certain kiss from a certain young man ...

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  10. Why, yes I'd love a spot of tea & one of those delicious pumpkin scones! Thank you so much! Congratulations are in order for Misses Carla, Gina, & Shannon on their new novels!

    I must say that my favorite kiss is that of my son when he bids me good-bye.

    bonnieroof60(at)yahoo(dot)com

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    1. I have two sons, 'tis nothing sweeter!

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    2. Your tea will be right out, Miss.

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    3. Thank you so much for the kind words! Baby kisses are definitely sweet. :-)

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  11. You ladies know how to host a delightful party! Oh, and the gowns! Thank you, I should love to have a cup of tea and a gingerbread scone.

    I am Annaliese Braun, the activity coordinator at Schooley's Mountain Heath House resort, 'tis so nice to join you on this lovely occasion. I endeavor to hold such a wonderful event as such for our guests and feature literary figures, as we have had some visit the resort. Perhaps our family friend, Washington Irving, would be so kind to visit the mountain springs and share some of his stories of Christmas.

    Congratulations to the authors, my thanks to the fine hostesses, and Merry Christmas greetings to all...even if it 'tis a bit early.

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    1. So excited for you and Shannon and Gina! Glad to be able to celebrate with you all! And its never to early to wish anyone a Merry Christmas, is it? ;)

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    2. Pleased to meet you, Annaliese. :-)

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    3. Merry Christmas to you! See, it's never too early.

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  12. My favorite kiss of course is from my husband. Looking forward to listening to these releases. They sound amazing. Congratulations to the authors. Blessings, Susan Fryman

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    1. Thanks you so kindly, Susan! Husband kisses are always blessed!

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    2. Thank you so much for your kind words! :-)

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  13. Shannon, Carla and Gina, how wonderful to celebrate the Yuletide with you as the air here in New York turns crisp and the apples are ready for pie and cider. I wish you all every blessing on your lovely stories.

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    1. Kathleen! I can almost smell those juicy apples from here. So glad you stopped by. I've got plenty of tea and scones, if it pleases you.

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    2. And how wonderful for you to come celebrate with us!! Mm, I miss fresh-picked apples ...

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  14. Thank you, sweet Kathy! Yes, the seasons are changing and the scents and tastes of fall are surely reminders that Christmas is approaching soon. How fun to celebrate early!

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    1. Yes! All is festive and merry here in Virginia. I fear those in your section of the colonies may find things a tad more austere at Christmas.

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    2. So true... It was a joy to write about my Mistletoe Memories novella set in 1820, though still a challenge. My heroine is German and hero is Dutch so they have traditions of their own!

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  15. I'm looking forward to these new stories, Shannon, Carla, and Gina.

    Shannon, you and I have some of the same historical passions. What's so intriguing to me about the "civil war" aspects of the American Revolutionary War is that it wasn't clearly divided north vs. south. Like you mentioned it was neighbor vs. neighbor, up and down the continent, from the mountains to the seaboard. How could we ever come to the end of stories to tell about it?

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    1. I must say that I agree with you 100%! The American Revolution was indeed a civil war in so many ways. I'd love to share some tea with you--or chocolate if you prefer. So glad you could join us, Lori, have a blessed day!

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    2. Indeed. And as Lori said, there are many stories yet to be told.

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    3. You're so right, Lori! (or should that be, Mistress Benton, if I reply from my present historic persona? :-D ) So many stories. I never tire of hearing them! And the more I read and research, the more I realize that human nature has never changed, nor culture, much, at its heart. So many parallels from the colonial era to now.

      Very happy you've joined us today!

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  16. (Chaplain Debbie enters looking a bit ragged and worn, yet still able to carry herself in a modest way)

    Hello, sweet ladies! So sorry I am late to the party. I had a bit of excitement with my pregnant daughter. Seems she was dehydrated and that caused her to have some very uncomfortable contractions. She was in the hospital for a few hours, but she is doing fine now. I am a bit weary, to say the least, from worrying and helping tend to my granddaughter.
    Oh, but everything is always so lovely and inviting at these tea parties. I wish to extend my deepest congratulations for these new releases. I so love Christmas! Those refreshments looks quite tempting. Do you mind if I sit a spell and indulge myself?
    Mistletoe kiss? Yes, I would say that the first time my hubby kissed me qualifies as a Mistletoe kiss. We dated for awhile before that first kiss, so the anticipation made it special.
    Thank you, ever so much, for the invite to this tea party. Always...Always a highlight of my day!

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    1. Oh dear! I heard from Mrs. Pagels that she suffered a similar plight with her second child. But he's grown up to be a hearty lad of 11! Welcome. What a delightful story of your kiss! I shall bring the tray of delicacies around to you shortly!

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    2. Thank you ever so much! Yes, I have seen the young lad, quite handsome! I am sure that my daughter will have a nice healthy baby. She just needs to make sure to drink plenty of fluids...she only has a few weeks until she is due, but I think this baby will be making an early appearance.
      Oh, and you look lovely today, my dear!

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    3. We are so glad you have made it. Do sit a spell and enjoy a bit of refreshment. You look wonderful, I'd never know you had such a morning. ;) Our tea parties would not be the same without you, dear one. What a whirl of excitement for you. Glad to hear that the expectant mother is faring well now. Loved hearing your mistletoe kiss story!

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    4. Hello sweet lady! Thank you for the refreshments and the kind words. I do enjoy these tea parties, always so festive and lovely! And these new releases sound wonderful! Makes me long for the Christmas season to begin. :)

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    5. Thank you for coming, and very happy your daughter is recovering! One never knows when a wee one might make its appearance ... :-)

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    6. So true! This is her second child and the pregnancy is so different from the last one. She will have two little girls very soon! This Grammy cannot wait to hold her precious little Cecilia...aka Snow White. :)

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    7. Ah, that's so sweet! Yes, every pregnancy is different. (Stepping out of my historic persona for a moment ...) I had a LOT of pre-labor with each of mine--nine total, yes you read that right--and still they all came several days after their "due dates"! That date is very much just an estimate. :-) Prayers for your daughter and her little one!! And congratulations on becoming a grandmother again.

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    8. Thanks Shannon. NINE! Wow. I appreciate the prayers. :)

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  17. Afternoon ladies. I hope I am not too late for the tea party. I would love a cup of hot decaf tea made from the mountain springs water, also one of those wonderful smelling pumpkin scones. I love pumpkin. Don't suppose you would share the recipe with us?

    Congratulations on your books Shannon, Carla and Gina. I am eager to read them, I do love a love story and one set during Christmas is even better.

    Memorable kisses, definitely from my husband! Then my two sons and my grandson's kisses are memorable too.

    blessings, Tina

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    1. You are not late at all, Mrs. Tina, and welcome! Thank you so much for the kind words, and I hope you enjoy the stories!

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    2. Mrs. Tina, you are not too late, and its a joy to have you. These scones are marvelous, and since you love pumpkin I'm sure you will certainly be wanting to recipe to make them at home. I'll start on your coffee right away.

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  18. Kisses *are* heavenly. I've been noticing how much everyone has been mentioning those adoring kisses from children and grandchildren! Husband's too!

    Thank you for your congratulations. I don't have a recipe for those gingerbread scones, but they are a picture of some very tasty ones that I enjoyed at a tea room in Maine.

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    1. Mistress Gade, I shall have to see if I can find such a recipe for you for my upcoming post later this month. :-)

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  19. Kisses from my sweet husband, Joe Anderson. And how I miss them each and every Christmas now!
    Hope everyone is having fun. Maxie

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    1. Maxie, so glad you could attend! We are thrilled to have you. Please feel free to take a seat. Would you like any tea or coffee? Husband kisses are blessings, I'm truly sorry you miss them so. God bless you!

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  20. Well, I must say that my virtual tummy is quite satisfied right now. :)
    I wanted to say that the covers of these new releases are very pretty. They seem like wonderful books to curl up with on a crisp Fall day! Hoping to win, but if not, they are definitely on my TBR list.

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    1. Hello my good friend! So good to see you and thrilled to know that you have enjoyed our treats today! I do agree, those books sound marvelous. Looking forward to a cozy Fall evening to enjoy them while the leaves come down. God bless!

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  21. Oh, let's see...My all time favorite first kiss would be the one my husband gave me on our first date, which just so happened to be the first day we met. Oo la la!!! We were at a Christmas party, on the dance floor, lights down low, swaying to the music and you can just imagine from there ;) So in a way it was a Mistletoe kiss. A Christmas kiss for sure!

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    1. That's so sweet, Anne! Sounds so romantic. :)

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    2. Believe me, it was! Dec 4th this year will be 33 yrs since that magic first kiss and we are still kissing to this day. In spite of the kids make gagging noises ;)

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  22. What a wonderful, sweet giveaway! I love Christmas books! There's just something special about curling up on the couch reading Christmas books! Thanks for this opportunity!
    susanlulu@yahoo.com

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    1. I feel the same way, SusanLulu! Such a great way to enhance the holiday mood and season! Even in September! ;)

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  23. I'm LATE, I'm LATE, for a very important date! I forgot all about the tea party and I was so looking forward to it! Well, at least I am able to make an appearance, (brushing the cookie crumbs off my purple velvet Christmas dress, as I munch on a Christmas cookie on my way in...) I hope I'm not too late to enjoy a little banter and get my name into the drawings. And do you happen to have any hot cider? Well, I guess I can blame SOME of my tardiness on the long trip I had to make from Buenos Aires.
    vmarney(at)hotmail(dot)com

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    1. Coming through with hot chocolate, like I just served the two Pagels men (and myself!) I feel sure I can manage some cider for you Mrs. Marney! And we have a selection of treats on the dessert table.

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    2. Buenos Aires...excuses...excuses. ;) So glad you took the time to join us, Vickie! Blessings!

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  24. Oh, but I am late as well! I'm certain the pumpkin scones must be all gone but I would so love a cup of tea. These stories look SO wonderful!! I am thrilled for all of you lovely authors! The best part is hearing about the seeds planted in your hearts that grew into the tales that are now published. I truly cannot wait to read these Christmas stories, Shannon, Carla & Gina. Congratulations, all!

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    1. No, we saved one just for you, Mrs. Cooper, and here is a cup of bohea just for you.

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    2. Thank you so much, Elaine! Blessings!!!

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  25. Can't be there physically but I can be there in spirit. Cup of tea and a good book. Good thoughts.

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    1. Mrs. Traher--I agree. Not much better than a nice hot cup of tea, with honey, and a wonderful Christian historical book!

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  26. Forgot my email. momtr3@yahoo.com Bonnie Traher

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  27. Oooo-oooooo, Christmas books by some of my favorite people and authors!! Soooo glad Amber Perry mentioned this fab party to me or I might have missed it since I am staying offline a lot due to deadline. But both anthologies look WONDERFUL, ladies, so BLESS YOU, Amber for the heads-up!!

    Favorite kiss??? Well I have a number of them, but my top three are:

    #3 -- The rain scene from The Notebook where Ryan Gosling pushes Rachel McAdams to the wall (I'm a wall-pusher from WAY back!!).

    #2 -- The rain scene in Breakfast at Tiffany's where George Peppard kisses Audrey Hepburn in the rain with a cat between them.

    And ... drumroll, please ... #3 -- The scene from Gone With the Wind where Rhett lays a big one on Scarlett, right before he carries her up the red-carpeted staircase and says, "This is one night you're not turning me out ..." The only thing that could make it better is if there was rain -- LOVE kisses in the rain!!

    Sigh ...

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    1. Those are definitely some memorable movie kisses, Julie! :-D Thank you so much for taking the time to stop by. (Now get busy on your deadline!! :-D )

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    2. I knew we could count on you, Julie, to mentions some memorable kisses! Thank you for coming by!

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    3. Hello Julie. Good to see you. You always make me laugh, and it's supposed to be good for you. I was just fixing to ask you, so you have a thing for Kisses in the rain, huh? You always liven up where ever you are. (smile) . There'a a chair right here by me for you.
      Ms. Maxie

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    4. LOL, SHANNON & CARLA ... NOBODY can accuse me of not knowing my kisses, that's for darn sure!! ;)

      MAXIE!!! And I'll take that chair darlin', but I may talk your ear off, so be warned!! And YOU always make me smile too, my friend! :)

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  28. What a great turnout! So many wonderful guests attending to wish congratulations to these great authors. I always leave these tea parties with a smile on my face. Thank you all for my newest smile! I will try to check in later to see if anyone is still around. But for now, I have a date with a baby quilt...my grandson will be needing it once he is born. :)
    Hugs and God bless!

    (Chaplain Debbie heads for the door, waving to all the lovely guests and hostesses.)

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  29. Hi,I would like to be entered in this contest for the books,Christmas time is my favorite time of the year and I would to have these books,so glad The Lord inspired you to write them.I hope all goes well for you!Blessings to you and your writings. Thanks Linda linda.stowe@att.net.

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    1. Thank you so much for your kind words, and for stopping by! Blessings to you as well! <3

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  30. Why thank you Ms. Pagels, I just love a nice hot steaming cup of spiced cider, and some Christmas goodies will top off my dinner nicely. Congratulation to these lovely ladies for your new books, I look forward to reading them.

    You asked about memorable kisses and I think my most memorable kiss would have to have been as I sat under a very tall Christmas tree, at the college where the man I was beginning to love was attending. We sat together, looking at the tree, fascinated by the beautiful Christmas lights and ornaments, while finding it difficult to look away from each other. Although this was not our first kiss, it was one of the most memorable, because of the love we were sharing amongst the lovely Christmas decor. We felt as if we were the only ones there, while we enjoyed this, our first Christmas of many together. We still find Christmas to be a magical and special time of remembering our first love together.

    Oh dear, I think I have finished off my cider, can I please have a cup of the foamy hot chocolate that I noticed? It looks so tasty! And a pumpkin scone would be great too, I think I noticed that Amber had brought out a new plate, fresh from the oven.

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    1. Oh, that is so sweet! I have chocolate breakfast cake and any drink you'd like for breakfast! Hugs!

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  31. Linda, Christmas is also one of my favorite ties as well, partially because of the memories I just mentioned, but also because of many wonderful memories of Christmas with our five children growing up and now the many grandchildren to follow. I look forward to reading about the Christmas memories ad traditions in this new set of stories.

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  32. It looks as though the party is winding down now, and since my husband often says that I am the last person to leave an event, I will tuck one of those lovely scones into a napkin to take back to him, and quietly make my exit. I'm feeling rather sleepy anyway, due to the long trip here, and I have a long trip back. Thank you all for the hospitality and much success to you all.

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    1. Thank you so much for stopping by, Vicki, and for sharing the lovely memories! Blessings!

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  33. I love Christmas and all things associated with it especially the birth of Christ. I sure hope that I win. Sharma Darby

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    1. The birth of Christ is definitely the most important thing! Blessings, Sharma, and thank you for stopping by!

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  34. I don't much like tea,so can I have a cup of hot chocolate instead.I love Christmas and all the stories and books about Christmas.I can read them all year.These stories sound great.I would be thrilled to win this,thanks for the chance.

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    1. We do have hot chocolate! Have yourself a cup and sit a while. :-) And we hope you enjoy the stories! <3

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  35. I hope I am not too late to enter to win. Congratulations ladies and I would love to win. Have a great night everyone. :)

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  36. Oh, and my favorite kiss is my first kiss with my hubby on our wedding day. Also my son's kisses. :)

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    1. Ah, very sweet, on both accounts!! :-) Blessings, and thank you for stopping by!

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  37. Congratulations to Shannon., Carla, and Gina on their releases. Wish I wasn't so late. I came real early this morning, but the party hadn't started so had to find other places to visit. carrie dear, I would love to have some hot tea and a dessert please. I hate that I missed so many of the ladies.
    Hope you have all been having a good time. I hope you haven't gathered up all of the names yet for the gifts. I love to win. :) Guess will be ok either way tho. Ms. Maxie mac262(at)me(dot)com

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    1. Thank you so much, Ms. Maxie! We're so happy to have you. Blessings!!

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  38. I'll enjoy a cup if tea and pumpkin scones. I love the pumpkin flavor.

    Congratulations on the releases! Especially to McNear for your first release!

    Thank you so much for letting us know about the books and authors. And thank you for the giveaway! I especially love the candles.

    ks4readin(at)yahoo(dot)com

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    1. The pumpkin scones are lovely! And thank you so much for your kind words. We hope you enjoy our stories!

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    2. Glad you like the candles because per random.com you are the winner! Katie, congrats!!! Check your email.

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  39. tea...I love tea parties!! thank you!
    My hubby & I met online at match.com and after talking on phone for weeks, we had our first meeting/date at the Olive Garden...he arrived with a dozen yellow roses and walked right up to me and gave me an A+ kiss! I was stunned. Then later he played the song "you're my Angel" by Brooks and Dunn and said that was my song because I was his angel. WE used that song in our wedding 6 months later! He is very very shy and quiet so it was a MAJOR thing for him to do that!!! <3 <3 Rhonda rhonda_nash_hall@comcast.net

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    1. What a romantic story!!! <3 I suppose after talking on the phone for several weeks you'd have gotten a good sense of whether or not meeting in person would work out. :-D Thank you for sharing, and blessings on your marriage!

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    2. That's a great true story! Congratulations on finding a such a romantic guy!

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  40. The best kisses are grandkids kisses, specially the unexpected ones, like being caught under the mistletoe and not realizing it. Their love is so genuine and sweet!

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    1. So looking forward to grandbaby kisses, myself! <3 Thank you for stopping by and sharing, Sonja!

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  41. Christmas stories are amongst my favorites. Such a lovely collection of stories.

    I've never had a mistletoe kiss & I can't recall one from any book I have read. I'll be looking out for them.

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    1. I hope you enjoy them, Mary! Blessings, and thank you for stopping by!

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  42. What exciting sounding stories. I can hardly wait to read them. Hope I'm not too late for the party. Still waiting for a mistletoe kiss. But the kisses from grandchildren... ah, heaven.

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    1. :-D A lot of you ladies have mentioned grandchildren. My oldest daughter is newly married and hoping to have a little one in the not-too-distant future ... I can't wait!!

      Thank you for your kind words and for stopping by! We hope you enjoy our stories. Blessings!

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  43. Let's see. I've never been kissed so I'll choose one from a novel...hmmmm...Well I recently read Noble Groom and there's a great kiss there, but no mistletoe...I think my favorite mistletoe kiss would have to be from a movie not a novel does that count? The Disney version of A Christmas Carol when she says "Ebeniezer my eyes are closed, my lips are puckered, and I'm standing under the mistletoe". I don't know why I just always thought that was cute! :D

    Blessings,
    Amada (pronounced: a.m.a.th.a)

    amada_chavez{AT}yahoo{DOT}com

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    1. LOL about Ebeniezer. Poor guy didn't have his priorities straight! Thanks for coming by, Amada. Tea or coffee? Cider?

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    2. Movie kisses most definitely count! Not sure I've seen that version of A Christmas Carol--now I'll have to track it down. :-D Blessings, and thank you so much for coming!

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    3. Every kiss counts, Amanda. Even non-mistletoe family hugs and kisses...Disney kisses, too!


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    4. Sorry I'm late answering! :/ Let's see Carrie...Cider! I'm a sucker for a good cider! LOL!

      YES you MUST see it Shannon! :D It's one of my favorite versions! Many blessings to you!

      :D I hoped so Carla! Thanks!

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  44. Mine are in movies :in the 2009 Emma (proposal scene with Emma & Mr. Knightley) and in the 2004 North & South(end scene at train station with Margaret & Mr. Thornton)..Congratulations and thank you for the giveaway!!!
    Blessings,
    Juli
    emeraldelena@hotmail.com

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    1. I loved the kiss with Emma, too in that movie, Julianna! Can I offer you coffee and cream this morning? Chocolate breakfast cakes?

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  45. Swoon. . . the scene with Margaret and Mr. Thornton is one of my favorites!

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    1. Me too!!! I'd actually been thinking of that scene, myself! <3

      Is it bad to admit that I also love the kiss in Snow White & the Huntsman??

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  46. I dedicated my Mistletoe Memories novella to my Dad, who gave me my first mistletoe kiss when I was a tiny girl!

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  47. Congratulations, Shannon, Carla and Gail! Best wishes on your new releases. I love Christmas stories and each of your novellas sound wonderful. I look forward to reading them. Blessings for much success!

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  48. Thank you, all, for a great party and helping us celebrate. We hope you'll enjoy reading these novellas to get you in the Christmas spirit!

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  49. Ladies, book sounds fantastic. Looking forward to reading it. I enjoyed the great post. We attended a small church and I taught the younger children's Sunday School class. Each child had a small gift for me. One little boy walked up and ask me to lean down. So I leaned down, he put the mistletoe over our heads and kissed my cheek. He said "Merry Christmas, Miss Barbara". What a precious and beautiful gift! Please enter me in the giveaway. Thank you!
    Barbara Thompson
    barbmaci61(at)yahoo(dot)com

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  50. Ah, so many entries. Oh well, here goes anyway. As a Southern Lady of-a-certain-age, I do enjoy my tea and friends, let me tell you, I have a Christmas tea-cup almost identical to the one pictured above. One of my sweet daughters gave it to me years ago, knowing how I enjoy my tea and because I typically brewed up a batch of "Christmas-tea-fruit-punch" in the crock pot for them. Well, my favorite at Christmas is a "Christmas tea" with spices and a tad of orange. You know what I'm talking about ladies.

    Now you did my Southern heart good when you spoke of the battles fought on my own North Carolina soil. Why there is hardly a field of corn that hasn't had North Carolina and other fighters blood spilt on it.

    Well, now we'll just see who gets to be charmed with these delightful Christmas stories.

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    1. That Christmas tea sounds delicious! And thank you so much for your kind words ... it's so true, about the blood spilled. The Carolinas were a battleground like few others. Sobering to think about.

      Blessings, and thank you for stopping by!

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  51. Thanks for sharing.
    It must be a funny party.

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  52. Thank you so much for my win of A PIONEER CHRISTMAS. How do I get in touch with you?

    marypres(AT)gmail(DOT)com

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