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Hopefully you caught the British Agent promo (today is the last day), but it turns out I haven't given A Home for Christmas any promo love in quite a while. You might be thinking that Christmas is over, and yes, technically, but it doesn't have to be. A Home for Christmas, featuring three heartwarming historical stories is only $0.99 from Feb 21 - Feb 27, 2023. Click the cover image below and enjoy! A Home for Christmas Will six strangers find hope, love, and family at Christmas? A collection of three historical western short stories to inspire love and warm the heart. "Christmas Mountain" In search of family she barely knows and adventure she’s always wanted, Katherine Donahue is saved from freezing on a winter night in the mountains of Montana by August Hollister. Neither of them expected that what one woman had in mind was a new beginning for them both. "Teton Christmas" Heartache and a thirst for adventure lead McKensie Stewart and her sister to Wyoming after the death of their parents. With the help of a widowed aunt and a charming horse breeder, McKensie discovers that hope is a cherished promise, and there is no greater gift than love. "Lily's Christmas Wish" Lily Malone has never had a real family or a real Christmas. This holiday season, she might get both. From an orphanage in New York City to the rugged mountains of Colorado, Lily sends out only one wish. But when the time comes, can she give it up so someone else’s wish can come true? If you love inspirational romance and heartfelt holidays, then you'll enjoy this trio of stories as we remember the true meaning of love any time of the year. Learn more → "Ms. McClintock has a true genius when writing beauty to touch the heart. This holiday treat is a gift any time one needs to remember the true meaning of love!" —InD'tale Magazine "The cold nips at your face and delicious Christmas cake leaves you wanting more." —M. Ann Roher, Author of Mattie "All three historical, western, short stories made me feel like I was watching a Christmas special of “Little House on the Prairie,” and I loved it!" —Rajiv's Reviews *Please note that this promo may not be available in all regions and countries. Please check pricing in your country/region before purchasing at the expected promo price.

First, I'm going to share that I love Ella Roberts's music. I don't know how I hadn't heard of her before, but she's wonderful! Her soft Celtic music, which includes many of my favorite songs, has been a companion through my past few weeks of writing. Her songs bring joy and pair well with slow living. I recently came across this movement called Slow Living, which it happens, has been around for quite a long time, so apparently I'm slow in a few things. Anyway, it's a wonderful and simple concept, this slow living. I've discovered that it means different things to different people, but at the core of it is the idea of slowing down, living a simpler life, and experience whatever is happening in the moment. For me, this also means having a purpose for everything I do, or it's not worth doing, buying, etc. These are a few of mine . . . Read with purpose. This is my mother. She reads at a snail's pace, but she reads every word carefully. In fact, she remembers some of the events in my earlier books better than I do. I'm practicing reading at a slower pace, to savor each word and not worry about how quickly I can finish a book, and think instead of what I can take away from it. Reading has become an even more enjoyable passion, which I did not think was possible. Shop with purpose. I've never been one to care about current fashion trends, so I have no need to buy whatever is in style. My winter uniform mostly consists of comfy pants or cords, shirt, and wool cardigans. Summer is for long flowy dresses and sandals, even when out in nature. I am a lot more careful now about what I buy, and have put myself on a stricter budget (except for books, which have no budget). I think about every item before I buy it and ask myself if I'll use it as often as I think, or if I already have something else that will do the job. Garden with purpose. 90% of gardening, for me, is about joy rather than purpose, but joy is a worthy objective. Digging in the dirt, nurturing plants, and watching them take root and life, and then walking through the garden to enjoy the fruits of our labors, is purpose in itself. Live with purpose. Take the time to cook a good meal and sharing it with others, enjoy a long walk in nature without technology interferring, look up and smile at others when you pass them on the street, and give of time, money, and support to those who need it more. All sometimes easier said than done, but all worth doing. Love with purpose. I have to say it: this mostly applies to animals. Seriously, no one will ever convince me that loving animals is not akin to love another human. I love a few people, too, but there's something about a cute little (or big) furball cuddling and staring at you with big lovey eyes. It melts the heart over and over again (even though a heart can't melt, or it can, but well, you get it). Gratitude in all things. It's not always easy to wake up, plodder through the same routine, and remain positive. Some people will say it's not a choice, others will say it's 100% about personal attitude. I say sometimes life happens, it's not always pretty, but there's always—ALWAYS—something for which to be grateful. Live, laugh, love, dream, and REPEAT is my recipe for a healthier and happier day, even when I have to work really hard to find something to be grateful for. My goal for this new year and all the years ahead is to slow down, enjoy the little moments, and live each one with purpose and joy. What one thing would you change in your life to live slow? I hope you discover all the wonderful possiblities that await in your discoveries. #UpbeatAuthors was originally launched by author Trish Milburn in 2017. Most of those who participated carried it through 2018, and a few went a year or two beyond. I've decided to revive it for 2023, at least on this blog, for a year of positivity.

I'm venturing to the past with this post set in a farmhouse where I spent six months of adventurous living in Vermont. I've included a few before pictures to show you the drastic change a little hard work and some favorite decor can accomplish. I'm going to spare you most of them . . . well, the place hadn't been lived in for a while. Did I mention this was an adventure? I've shared a few of these images on Instagram and Pinterest, but while going through old posts on an inactive blog, and not shared here before, I thought you might enjoy this. This is on the day of arrival, when autumn greeted us with fair weather. We would have remained longer, but the farm sold six months after we arrived, and so we returned home. The farm had been on the market for many years. There were, if I recall, 146 acres to the farm, with so many wonderful trails to explore. We signed a lease from Montana after only seeing exterior pictures, and on the word of my brother who said the fireplaces were awesome and the farm was beautiful. Well, he was right. I should mention there was no heat upstairs and we were heading into winter. My brother forgot that part. At this point I had been a closet writer for a number of years, but I do believe it was the old house, lack of amenities, and beautiful simplicity of being there that inspired me to publish. There are so many stories within the walls of old houses, barns, shops, etc., and so much of that can be found intact in New England. We got very well acquainted with the woodshed during the winter. The shed with the red door is charming, but I never went inside. It had bars on the windows and so instead of inspecting, I allowed my imagination to run wild about what could be inside. There was no garage, so we made good use of the barn during the winter. It was not difficult to imagine what the place must look like when in bloom. The little building next to the barn is a garden shed. The kind man who owned the property tapped maple from the trees and made the most delicious syrup I've ever had in my life, right here in this sugar house (below). It was in the field across from the farm house. He used horses and a sleigh for this task, and the same team to plow trails in the winter that were great for snowshoeing. Speaking of the best maple syrup ever, I do believe the secret lies with the natural springs that ran through the property. It was the source of water for the house, too, and everything I cooked or baked tasted incredible. It was a great old house that had stood against time. It might have been a little rough around the edges, but no matter because it was a truly delightful place to spend time. There was a lot of cleanup needed, and though we didn't get a lot done, a little made a difference. My beloved pup loved the ponds. There wasn't much to the kitchen, and yet it became a beloved room where I spent many enjoyable hours trying out new recipes. The kitchen island, shown above, was built by my brother. He had a bit of a bother getting it in there, and so he put it together and added the finishing touches while it was in the kitchen. We left it behind, and I think it's still there. Here's another before and after space. This is part of the original farm house, and we're not quite sure what it was used for before, but we used it as a dining room. It was perfect with a view of the fireplace and window overlooking the grass and pond. The fireplace is really cool, and it did a fair job of warming the house, at least the downstairs. What a dream it would have been to completely restore this house. It has since seen a lot of updates under the care of the people who bought it soon after we left. And, I believe it has sold again. I hope the new owners revive the maple syrup operation. And then came winter. Another version of the barn (last picture below) was used on the original cover for An Angel Called Gallagher. Despite the bone-chilling wet cold of winter, it was my favorite season at the farm. And it was upon my return from this adventure that I finished Gallagher's Pride. The farm provided much inspiration for nineteenth-century living.

"Respect yourself enough to walk away from anything that no longer serves you, grows you, or makes you happy." ~Robert Tew Finding balance . . . as someone who struggles with it daily, I'm hardly in a position to offer tips of my own. Authors struggle to find time for their writing and for their real life, but this isn't unlike what almost very other person who has multiple passions, hobbies, and careers face. However, there are a few things I've learned, and when I "allow" myself to adopt these practices into my routine, I find what I believe resembles a balanced life. Set specific goals and don't be afraid to dream big, but on balance, don't let yourself become overwhelmed with trying to do everything, be everything, or achieve everything. Prioritize what's most important and don't be afraid to let some of those less-important dreams go. Stop comparing your life, your progress, and your goals to others. Trying to live up to an idealized version of someone or something that isn't real and will only stall your progress. Albert Einstein said, "A quiet and modest life brings more joy than a pursuit of success bound with constant unrest." Disconnect in the evenings and over the weekends. Stepping away from computers, phones, and meaningless gadgets will give you more time with family, friends, or time to achieve some of those goals and dreams you've mapped out. Don't be afraid to say "No!" If it's not essential, doesn't help you grow or add value to your life, let it go. As Robert Tew said, "Respect yourself enough to walk away from anything that no longer serves you, grows you, or makes you happy." To me, this is the key to finding balance. What do you do to find balance? #UpbeatAuthors was originally launched by author Trish Milburn in 2017. Most of those who participated carried it through 2018, and a few went a year or two beyond. I've decided to revive it for 2023, at least on this blog, for a year of positivity.

It's been far too long since I've added to the Reading Room, and I can't think of a better way to start 2023 than finishing a wonderful book. I'm talking about Laura Franz's The Rose and the Thistle. I bought this one because of the cover and the author (I do so love pretty covers on the bookshelf.), and it's as wonderful within the pages as the cover might suggest. Everard and Blythe prove that love is often unexpected and can conquer hardships. The Scotland setting is beautiful with vivid description, and history is sprinkled throughout to complement without overpowering. This is a clean read. While religion plays an important part in the characters' lives, it reads as historically accurate and not preachy. About the Book In 1715, Lady Blythe Hedley's father is declared an enemy of the British crown because of his Jacobite sympathies, forcing her to flee her home in northern England. Secreted to the tower of Wedderburn Castle in Scotland, Lady Blythe awaits who will ultimately be crowned king. But in a house with seven sons and numerous servants, her presence soon becomes known. No sooner has Everard Hume lost his father, Lord Wedderburn, than Lady Hedley arrives with the clothes on her back and her mistress in tow. He has his own problems--a volatile brother with dangerous political leanings, an estate to manage, and a very young brother in need of comfort and direction in the wake of losing his father. It would be best for everyone if he could send this misfit heiress on her way as soon as possible. Drawn into a whirlwind of intrigue, shifting alliances, and ambitions, Lady Blythe must be careful whom she trusts. Her fortune, her future, and her very life are at stake. Those who appear to be adversaries may turn out to be allies--and those who pretend friendship may be enemies. The Reading Room is where I share books, because authors are readers, too. I don't rate books on my blog, but I do like to share books I've read and enjoyed (My mom recommends a few, too.). My tastes are eclectic, so expect to see everything from sweet, wholesome romance to edge-of-your-seat, sexy thrillers, and more in between.

I've been on a healthier baking trend of late, but no one will ever convince me scones, with all their wondrous varieties, are not one of the best foods on the planet. They are a perfect tea pairing, and tea pairs perfectly with writing, so enough said. Scones are also a great way to add a bit of sweetness to your day without resorting to processed alternatives. Speaking of alternatives, the butter (I'm a Kerrygold fan) can be replaced with a nice vegan alternative like Earth Balance Baking Sticks. I've used them in many recipes and they work great. These scones are great because they don't have a surplus of butter or sugar (if you leave off the glaze) and the sugar can easily be decreased by a tablespoon or two. The blackberry and coconut complement each other so well, and toasting the coconut brings out more of the nutty flavor. These blueberry coconut scones are a new favorite, and offer a nice serving of nutrition in the form of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. Yes, I know you can get all that by just eating the blackberries, but hey, scones. Enjoy with a your beverage of choice and a good book. The tea shown is actually Herbal Coffee (caffeine-free) from Mountain Rose Herbs. The Blackberry Coconut Scones are a variation of the Blueberry Lemon Pecan Scones that can be found on the recipes page. For your convenience, you can download the Blackberry Coconut Scone recipe here. Enjoy!

Updated 12.29.2022 to include Michael Donaghue. This is part three of 100 Questions I came across at 4 Hats and Frugal. For this next set, I'm going to have a little help from Clara Stowe. Don't miss reading part one with Brenna Gallagher and part two with Rhona Blackwood. 51. Last time you got a portrait taken by a photographer? MK: By a professional? It has been . . . awhile. Clara: Before I came to Montana. Michael: Never 52. Do you think musicals are cheesy? MK: Depends on the musical. I wore out our VHS tape of “White Christmas” growing up, but otherwise, I don’t recall seeing many. Clara: What is cheesy? MK: Inferior, cheap— Clara: What’s a musical? MK: A play with lots of singing? Clara: What is VHS? MK: Something from a forgotten time. Clara: What is— MK: You ask a lot of questions. Michael: Everything Clara said. 53. Is Christmas stressful? MK: Decorating day is a bit hectic, but the rest is mellow and filled with holiday cheer. Clara: Christmas is always a joyous time of year in our home. Michael: Christmas before we came to America was always about family. During the war years, it was difficult to find the joy. Now, with Clara . . . it's perfect. 54. Ever eat a pierogi? MK: I’ve had dumplings, though I cannot speak to their origins. Clara: I have never heard of them. MK: Do you like to cook? Clara: I’m learning. MK: But do you enjoy it? Clara: I’m learning. MK: Have the new cook at your inn make you dumplings. You’ll like them. Clara: You sound certain. MK: Trust me. I’ll share a recipe with her. Clara: I have a new cook? MK: You will? Clara: Really? When? MK: In your continuing story. Clara: I get a continuing story? MK: Of course. Did you really think I was going to leave you hanging like that? Clara: Well . . . Michael: It did take you a long time to introduce me to Clara. MK: In fact, it was only about eight months. Clara: You mean six years. MK: Well, in my time sure. In your time, it was about eight months. Better late than never. 55. Favorite type of fruit pie? MK: Cherry Clara: Apple Michael: Apple 56. Occupations you wanted to be when you were a kid? MK: K-9 cop, doctor, lawyer, professional shopper, designer Clara: I never planned to have a profession. MK had other plans. MK: They’re good plans. You have a beautiful inn. Clara: I didn’t know the first thing about running an inn. MK: You don’t have to do it alone. Clara: Thank goodness for that. I am learning quite a lot. Michael: I think she does a splendid job. MK: What did you want to be Michael? Michael: I always wanted to work with my hands, to build something tangible. MK: You make beautiful furniture. Michael: I didn't get to spend much time doing that in your book. MK: Making furniture wasn't the point the story. Michael: Could have been. MK: I don't think so. I promise to have you build furniture if you show up in another story. Michael: Thank you . . . Wait. What you do mean if? 57. Do you believe in ghosts? MK: I do. I’ve never seen one and don’t believe they haunt us, but I definitely believe they exist. Clara: I do as well. Michael: Of course, I'm from Ireland. 58. Ever have a Deja-vu feeling? MK: Rarely. Clara: What is deja-vu? MK: A feeling that you’ve already seen or experienced something. Clara: Oh, how interesting. Yes, I suppose I have, at least in my dreams. Michael: Not that I recall. 59. Do you take a vitamin daily? MK: I take multiple vitamins daily. Clara: I don’t understand. MK: You don’t take them, and you don’t need them. Clara: How do you know? I might want them. MK: You’re out of luck. Vitamins aren’t around yet. Clara: You have them. MK: Let’s talk in 150 years. Michael: I don't need to add anything here. 60. Do you wear slippers? MK: Yes, I have two pairs. One for bedtime and early morning. The other pair is an indoor/outdoor pair I wear during the cold months. Clara: Yes, I wear bedroom slippers. Michael: No. If my feet are cold I wear socks in the bedroom. 61. Do you wear a bath robe? MK: Yes, after I dress for bed at night and again in the morning. It’s all very Downton, without the lady’s maid. That would be weird. Clara: I had a lady’s maid. MK: Really? Yeah, that tracks considering your family. Clara: You didn’t have her travel with me to Montana. MK: No, I did drop the ball on that one. Do you want a lady’s maid? Clara: You did not put me in a place of high fashion, so one is not necessary here. MK: Don’t you like Crooked Creek? Clara: I love it . . . but I do miss some of the amenities. MK: Yeah, can’t help you there. Michael: I didn't have a lady's maid. MK: Look, Clara, he said that with a straight face. Do you miss city amenities, Michael? Michael: My life before Crooked Creek was a lot different from Clara's. Crooked Creek is a dream after the conditions during the war, so right now, I have all I need. 62. What do you wear to bed? MK: Nightgown Clara: Nightgown Michael: Well . . . MK: Yes? Michael: You said to keep all responses appropriate. MK: I did, but I'm sure whatever you have to say will be just fine. Michael: Most of the time, I wear nothing. MK: I'm sure Clara appreciates that. Clara: MK! MK: Like you weren't thinking it. Clara: This is hardly appropriate conversation. MK: If I were you, and he came to bed in— Clara: Don't finish that. MK: All right, but I'm still going to picture him— Clara: MK! MK: Sorry. Of course, I did put drawers on him in the book, so all-in-all, quite respectable. Michael: May I enter this conversation? Clara: No MK: No 63. What was your first concert? MK: I don’t remember. I was youngish and discovered quickly that I don’t like concerts. Clara: I was quite young. My mother believed one should be exposed to as much culture as possible. She often held small concerts in our home for social events. You really don’t like concerts? MK: I’ve never been to the kind of concert you’re talking about. Clara: What other kind is there? Michael: I've never been to one, but I like music. My mother liked to sing. MK: Can you sing? Michael: It's never come up. You didn't tell me if I could or not. MK: Huh. Well, then, you can sing. Clara: What about me? MK: You're tone deaf. Michael: Actually, she has a lovely voice. MK: I don't think so. Michael: You're not as in control of us as you think you are. MK: That put me in my place. 64. Walmart, Target, or Kmart? MK: None of the above. I used to go to Target, but it’s been a few years. Clara: Are those people? MK: Places Clara: They sound odd. MK: So many things do these days. Clara: You live in an odd time. MK: Tell me about it. Clara: I cannot for I do not know anything about your time. MK: That’s not . . . never mind. Michael: I don't think I'd like your time. MK: You'd appreciate central air. Michael: What's that? MK: It's like having a cool breeze constantly flowing through your house on a hot day. Michael: Sounds nice. MK: Your descendents enjoy it. 65. Nike or Adidas? MK: Neither. Clara: Are those people? MK: Shoes Clara: You name your shoes? MK: No, those are the brands. Clara: Like on a cow? MK: No, like the people who make them. Clara: Ah, well, neither. Michael: I'll stick with cows. 66. Cheetos or Fritos? MK: Fritos, but only with tuna sandwiches. Clara: Should I even ask? MK: They’re a type of food. Clara: Do they taste good? MK: Sometimes. Michael: What's a tuna sandwich? 67. Peanuts or Sunflower seeds? MK: Peanuts Clara: Peanuts MK: Have you ever eaten them? Clara: I have not. MK: Then why did you choose peanuts? Clara: I like the name. Michael: We ate a lot of peanuts during the war. MK: Do you eat them now? Michael: Not since I came to Crooked Creek. I don't think the general store stocks them. Clara: They do not. MK: Good to know. 68. Ever hear of the group Tres Bien? MK: I know the words "tres bien" but did not know there was a group by that name. Clara: What she said. MK: You don’t speak French. Clara: Neither do you. MK: How do you know? Clara: Do you think you really know more about us than we do about you? MK: This is going to a creepy place. Michael: I don't speak French either. Why is that? MK: Because I don't speak French. Michael: You took two years of French. Clara: How do you know that? MK: Yeah, how do you know that? Michael: As Clara mentioned, you don't know more about us than we do about you. MK: Really creepy place. 69. Ever take dance lessons? MK: Yes, swing and ballroom in junior high. Tap, and I think ballet, when I was younger. Clara: I had dance instruction before my first season. Michael: My mother taught me. 70. Is there a profession you picture your future spouse doing? MK: Whatever he wants to do works for me, so long as he’s happy. Clara: She has not yet seen fit to give me a spouse. I am in no hurry. MK: You just need to give me a little more time. Clara: It has been a long time. MK: In my time or yours? Clara: Good point. Michael: What about me? Clara: You weren't around when I first answered these questions. MK: Sorry about that. You're together now, though, and that's what matters. Clara: Of course, now I know your profession. MK: But we aren't going to talk about that here. 71. Can you curl your tongue? MK: Not really. Clara: How would I know? MK: Look in the mirror and try to curl your tongue. Clara: Why? MK: To see if you can. Clara: To what end? MK: Moving on . . . Michael: I refuse to answer this. 72. Have you ever won a spelling bee? MK: I never competed in one. Clara: I do know how to spell, but you will have to explain what spelling has to do with bees. Michael: I can spell better than both of you. MK: Uh, no. Michael: Yes MK: No Michael: Yes MK: Okay, ten words right now, winner gets an apple pie. Michael: I get apple pie whenever I want at the inn. 73. Have you ever cried because you were so happy? MK: I’m sure I have. Clara: Oh, yes. Michael: Yes 74. Own any record albums? MK: Unfortunately, I do not. Clara: I— MK: You don’t. Clara: All right. Michael: Will you give us one in the next story? MK: No Michael: Why not? MK: Because you won't live that long. 75. Own a record player? MK: Since I don’t have record albums that would be no. Clara: That was not a friendly response. MK: It was kind of a dumb question. It should have come before the album question. Clara: You should apologize. MK: Why? Clara: What is a record player? MK: I guess that conversation is over. Michael: 76. Do you regularly burn incense? MK: Never. I like candles. Clara: Yes, I like candles, too. Michael: Candles are good. 77. Ever been in love? MK: Yes Clara: Yes Narrator: Care to elaborate? MK: Clara lost her beau. Let’s move on. Clara: I enjoy speaking of him. MK: Yes, but it’s sad. Clara: I like to remember him. MK: You think about him a lot still, don’t you? Clara: Every day. Less, though, since Michael. Michael: You already know my answer. MK: The readers don't. Michael: Yes, they do. You introduced me to Clara in Christmas in Crooked Creek. They've probably figured out we'll be together. MK: Will you please answer the question? Michael: Yes, I have been in love. I am in love. MK: See, now they know. Michael: They already guessed. Clara: Children . . .

The new Crooked Creek installment is here! Christmas in Crooked Creek is now here to fill your hours (and e-readers) with joy. It's also available in print for those who like to hold paper. Don't waste another minute! Join me and my friends for a snowy, adventure-filled Christmas in Montana (yep, we've been here before)! Christmas in Crooked Creek will be available in Kindle Unlimited on 12/15, so you have two more days to get the book via your favorite retailer. For devoted e-readers: Amazon (in KU) For the paper people: Paperback Large Print Will two hearts find a way to leave the sorrows of war behind and embrace a future in Crooked Creek? Join us in post-Civil War Montana Territory for an adventure filled with hope, faith, family, and a long-awaited romance. Learn more about the book and read an excerpt →

This holiday season, I'm resting a nasty sprain that resulted from a lame-brain move, which means no winter activities and tromping around in snow to take new pictures. Instead, I'm sharing some winter landscapes from years past. Most are in Montana and a few are from my time in Vermont. If you're not a cold and snow person, this is a great way to enjoy winter from afar. May you find great joy in the season, and spend as much time exploring the outdoors or cozied up with a book as your heart desires. A winter post in pictures . . .

It is Clara Stowe's first Christmas in Crooked Creek! Join Emma, Hattie, Briley, and Clara in post-Civil War Montana Territory for an adventure filled with hope, faith, family, and of course, a long-awaited romance. Christmas in Crooked Creek will arrive December 13, 2022. It's up for preorder, which means you can click now and the story will then magically (with the help of a little tech) appear on your e-reader the day of release. Christmas in Crooked Creek is available almost everywhere through Dec 15, then it goes into Kindle Unlimited. Get it here: Amazon B&N Nook Apple iBooks Kobo Paperback, hardcover, and large print editions will be available on release day! Christmas in Crooked Creek Join the women of Crooked Creek in a heartwarming tale of survival, hope, love, and maybe even a Christmas miracle. The war is over, though for some like Michael Donoghue, the four years of battles brought only death and misery. After returning home, he discovers his mother has passed and his sister is gone. With a bit of money and the help of a friend, Michael heads west in search of the only family he has left. Clara Stowe and her daughter left behind painful memories and a life of comfort to make a beginning out west. When existence on the frontier proves to be more challenging than she imagined, Clara seeks the help of people she’s come to love and a man who stirs within her an undeniable longing for a second chance. As the holiday season approaches, Michael and Clara must find the courage to let go of the past, survive the present, and embrace a future neither envisioned. Don’t miss this stand-alone western, romantic adventure novel in the Crooked Creek series set in post-Civil War Montana Territory. Read an Excerpt

Autumn is in the air and winter is close—like, really close—and I'm excited for it's arrival. I've emerged from a long stay in my writing cave for a breather before I head back in for edits and more writing. And what better way than a delicious quick bread sure to be enjoyed by the whole family. Apples, spice, and rich cream cheese glaze come together to make this a perfect autumn treat. I modified my family's favorite banana bread recipe into this scrumptious, soft, and moist apple bread. This bread is an all-time favorite! It's a sweet treat for breakfast or as an after-dinner dessert. A single slice from a mini-loaf is both satisfying and filling. The two images below show what was done with the apples. They were seasoned and baked to soften them and also give the seasoning a chance to soak into the apples. See recipe instructions in the PDF. Spiced Apple Bread with Cream Cheese Glaze Get the Recipe in PDF Add a cup of cocoa, or your beverage of choice, cozy up with a good book, and enjoy!

Peaches, pecans, and spice come together in this delicious muffin that has become one of my favorite go-to breakfast treats. Of course, what are baked goods without tea and books? Just a lot of tasty calories we don't need. Hence, the tea and books to nourish the body and the mind. I'm partial to muffins without butter or other spread, especially if they have a perfect crumble topping like this recipe has. There are a lot of fabulous peach muffin recipes out there, and so I can't pinpoint why I like this one so much, but I do. It has lots of cinnamon, but because I really like spices, I'll add a 1/2 tsp of allspice next time. Get the recipe: Peach-Pecan Muffins The Recipe: Link above; featured in Southern Living, March 2011 The Tea: Hawthorn with Hibiscus from Traditional Medicinals Irish Country Series - Great Reads The Irish Country series by Patrick Taylor is a long-running and wonderful series set in the delightful town of Ballybucklebo. It all began with An Irish Country Doctor and sixteen books later, ended with An Irish Country Yuletide. He even has An Irish Country Cookbook! The author's retirement was announced in 2021, and what a great legacy of stories he is leaving. I am only halfway through the series, and will continue to keep reading because they're too good not to find out what happens with the doctors and the village of Ballybucklebo. Be well, be kind, and may you enjoy life's simple pleasures whenever the opportunity arises. —MK