Restless in Carolina by Tamara Leigh

What a delightful novel; a nice story line, but not dripping in sweetness. Bridget is a widow of four years when we meet her and the Pickwick family. The story is told from her view point and we cheer her on as she finally begins the healing process and returns to a relationship with God and opens herself to the possibility of love again. We learn of the family’s past and how the actions of generations before us impact our behavior as well as those on the periphery.

It is a quick summer read that I highly recommend as a take along to the beach or a weekend get-away!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

DIY Weekend Project

Well, it was actually a couple of weekends, but we were able to re-purpose some of the cabinets and counter tops from our kitchen in the valley to update the cabin - thanks to my skilled husband!

Before

Also Before

After with solid surface counter tops and more cupboard space

Post Cards

Loved the post cards we got from Emma and Rachel this week!

Family Reunion

This past weekend we attended the Bontrager reunion in Hesston, KS

Four siblings - The First Generation

Ray, Donna Mae, Grace, Lola Faye 

Four generations

Lola Faye, Ava, Julie, Rebecca

There was usually a card game or other table top activity in progress

Little Ava looked so much like a certain Rachel at the age of 2

The Cousins

A moment for a quick dance

Donna and Ray

Donna and Michael sharing a chuckle

Time for family pictures!

First Row: Kendall, Donna, Larry, Chase

Second Row: Me

Third Row: Holden, Torrie, Kirby, Darcie

Fourth Row: Brock

We did the "Heritage Tour" into Yoder, KS where the homestead was located.  One of the stops was at the old church and grave yard.  It was so sad to see the number of babies and children who died so young.

There was a Ping Pong tournament with Brooke (not pictured) named the ultimate champ.

We had a nice time of sharing talents and singing Sunday morning.

Gretchen and Josie

Decorating turtle backs for the famous Turtle Races.  Note the coveted trophy on the table.

Jenae, Adam, Gretchen, and Emily

Turtle Races in action.  The Champ - Jeff (not pictured)

July 4

Happy and safe Independence Day celebrations!

Our view from the cabin window this morning

Book Review: Too Rich for a Bride

Too Rich for a Bride; written by Mona Hodgson

A charming story set at the time when women we just beginning to enter into business. Thinking she doesn’t need a man in her life to be fulfilled, Ida sets out for the west with a college degree and determination. The stories of the main characters meld together nicely and Ida learns what is important in her life – using her business talents in an ethical manner and being open to love. I nice read for a quiet weekend.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”