“Count it all joy, my
brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know
that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let
steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking
in nothing.”
~ James 1:2, NIV ~
~ James 1:2, NIV ~
Sometimes I’m so caught up in the day-to-day responsibilities of life
that I forget to thank God for how very blessed I am. Springtime, with its new life and burst of color, is a
perfect season to reflect upon the many blessings that fill our lives.
I have so many reasons to be thankful. My loving husband, Tim, is a man with whom I share a
real-life romance filled with love and laughter, adventure and fun. Tim supports and encourages my passion for
sharing the written word. He understands that my love of writing is
more than a job…it is a ministry. I’m so thankful God brought him into my life.
I’m thankful for my daughter, Danni, who has grown into a
beautiful young woman. Danni just graduated from college and is prepared to spend her future teaching young children the joy of learning. She brightens my life with her loving, generous
spirit. Danni's a friend to everyone. She holds a special place in her heart for the
elderly, children, and the hurting. As she comes into her own, I realize with a greater and
deeper understanding just how much she is truly a blessing to me.
The friends I've grown closer to through the years, especially my precious writing friends, are a
reason to give thanks. These wonderful people completely understand when I
mention the ‘voices’ that speak to me while I’m brainstorming a new book. They don’t mind if I take a time-out from our lunchtime conversation to jot down an idea for
future reference. I love them dearly.
But, most of all, I am thankful for my Lord and Savior, who
has given all of this and more to me. What an amazing blessing to know His love
and grace are never-ending! Even in times of trial, I know that He is working
in me to provide for greater things. My faith has taught me to embrace hardships and
disappointments as an opportunity to grow spiritually.
~~~~~
Love blooms in the most unlikely places…
Hattie Cutler and Anthony Moretto have both survived the death of their spouses. With children grown and the Cutler Nursery business flourishing, Hattie decides it’s time to turn her attention to other endeavors. A community garden on the church grounds is just the place to start. She spearheads the project, and when Anthony steps in to offer his assistance more than gardening is on the agenda. The two have shared a long-time friendship which has blossomed into love; that truth is clear to everyone—with the exception of Hattie and Anthony. But can the two learn to sow more than vegetables and, in turn, reap a beautiful future together?
Hattie Cutler and Anthony Moretto have both survived the death of their spouses. With children grown and the Cutler Nursery business flourishing, Hattie decides it’s time to turn her attention to other endeavors. A community garden on the church grounds is just the place to start. She spearheads the project, and when Anthony steps in to offer his assistance more than gardening is on the agenda. The two have shared a long-time friendship which has blossomed into love; that truth is clear to everyone—with the exception of Hattie and Anthony. But can the two learn to sow more than vegetables and, in turn, reap a beautiful future together?
~~~~~
Mary
Manners is a country girl at heart who has spent a lifetime exploring
her joy of writing. She has two sons, a daughter, and three beautiful
grandchildren. She currently lives along the sunny shores of Jacksonville Beach
with her husband Tim.
A former teacher as well an
intermediate school principal, Mary spent three decades sharing her love of
learning. While growing up in Chicago, Mary worked her way through a variety of
jobs including paper girl, hot dog vendor, grocery store cashier, lifeguard, swim
instructor, pizza chef, and nanny. Many of these experiences led to adventures
that bring humor and insight to her stories. Mary loves long sunrise runs,
ocean sunsets, and flavored coffee.
Connect with Mary at her website:
www.MaryMannersRomance.com.
“Like” her author page on Facebook and follow her on Twitter.
