Faith L. Potts's Blog, page 13

When Calls the Heart || Intro + Fav Quotes

Come one, come all! Welcome to the first day of a week-long blog event focused on Hallmark's continuing Canadian historical drama series, When Calls the Heart.

The last couple of years, my sweet friend Rebekah and I have partnered to put this together on the week of Valentines Day. Each day this week, we'll both be posting something related to the series on our blogs. If you're also a fan of the show, feel free to write your own post as a way to join in the fun—and drop us a link so we can check it out! :D

My topic for today is a spotlight of some of my favorite quotes from the series. Don't forget to visit Rebekah's blog and find her post for that day once you're through here!


{ Season One }
Your insults will not silence me, nor will your money.  ~ Abigail Stanton
Elizabeth: Only heathens arrive late to a Church service.
Jack: Only the uncouth whisper during a sermon.

I suggest you get used to a steady diet of coal dust.  ~ Elizabeth Thatcher
Elizabeth: Jack, are you aware that someone painted a tiny likeness of the two of us on the Founder’s Day backdrop?
Jack: Likeness?
Elizabeth: Yes, and it’s hidden there like a little stick of dynamite ready to go off, and some of my students just lit the fuse.
Jack: What are we doing in the painting?
Elizabeth: I…I can’t really say. W-We’re…We’re kissing.
Jack: We’re kissing?! Well, that is completely inappropriate. Pure fiction.


{ Season Two }
That man was pounding nails like he was Noah bracing for the flood.  ~ Florence Blakeley
If that’s a threat, Mr. Gowen, I suggest you not cross the people who prepare your food!  ~ Abigail Stanton


{ Season Three }
Rosemary Leveaux: You’re not going to make this easy, are you? Lee Coulter: Perhaps the best I can do right now is not make it any harder.
Rosemary: We want the same things in life...
Lee: Big house…
Rosemary: White picket fence...
Lee: Two cats...
Rosemary: Model T...
Lee: Five kids…
Rosemary: Five kids… Five kids?! What?
Lee: Five kids. Children. You know, wee ones.
Rosemary: *sputters* Well...children are very noisy...and they come with diapers. And do you know what’s in those diapers?


{ Season Four }
Jack: What’s Rosemary got in here? Lead?Lee Coulter: Souvenirs.Jack: Like the Statue of Liberty?
Bill Avery: Henry, let’s have a drink.
Henry: I only drink with friends.
Bill: Well then you must be pretty thirsty.

A.J. Foster: But I thought I meant something to you. I thought there was something between us.Bill Avery: There is. They’re called bars.

{ Season Five }
Elizabeth Thatcher: You know, that’s actually not a bad idea.
Rosemary Coulter: Of course not! I don't have those.

If ignorance was a crime, there would be a lot more people in jail!  ~ Bill Avery
Rosemary Coulter: Oh! Here is one of my favorite Latin phrases. It’s pronounced carpe diem. Does anyone know what that means?
Robert Wolf: It sounds like what I had for dinner last night.

Young men aren’t supposed to die and when they do, even as Jack did as a hero… I don’t know, Abigail…I can’t make sense of it.  ~ Bill Avery 

{ Giveaway }And, as previously mentioned, we have a giveaway this year! Lots of goodies to be won, divided into two "prize packs" for first and second place. Enter through the gadget or by clicking the image below!



a Rafflecopter giveaway

are you a Heartie? if so, what's your favorite quote from the show? if not, go binge S1 and we'll see you back tomorrow! 

A New Year + Kansas || January Recap

*comes in cringing* So, this is kinda super late. But I wanna continue doing recaps this year + changing up the 'life, 'books,' and 'writing' sections, so...forgive the tardiness and let me know what ya think of the new stuff, would ya?


|| Life. |||| New YearJanuary. A new year. 2019. Which is a really, really weird feeling. This is my last, full, calendar-year of being a teenager. Another really, really weird feeling. But it's good too. I spent a great deal of time reflecting this month. A new year, a new outlook, a new season of life. With new goals and plans and dreams. It's all part of the journey, though. And God's always good. <3

|| KansasAs y'all already know, I went on an adventure this month. It was super fabulous in a way that words can't even describe. But here's a photo dump.



just keeping it real, ya know...





|| SelfiesApparently I took a lot of selfies this month...? Which is kinda weird, to be honest, because I'm not a big fan of pictures of my face, sooo... Go figure.


ft. the bro's shoulder
|| BakingI baked quite a few times this month, which I don't do that often. Several batches of cookies, cinnamon rolls, muffins, peppermint bark...twas scrumptious. Also, my family loves me.


|| Random• Someone stabbed the snowman/pepper shaker. I don't even wanna know what the poor guy did to deserve this fate.



• The bro and I were home alone one night, which results in an Indiana Jones marathon and (you guessed it) cookies.

• My dog is cuter than your dog. (Sshh, it's fine, I ain't judging...)



• Traffic was backed up about 15 cars in each direction on a curvy two-lane because there was a couple runaway puppies in the road. Seeing five grown adults get repeatedly outsmarted by a little 20 lb. dog was humorous. xD




|| Books. || 
|| Best ReadFiction, Christmas at Carnton by Tamera Alexander was GOLD. The romance was precious, and I adored the little boy character. I don't always love leading female character, but in this case I truly did. Aletta was so strong and just...ah. Well done, Ms. Alexander. *claps* And, ya know, our wounded lead guy was amazing as well. <3  I definitely want to read more by this talented author!

|| Worst ReadHahaaa... Several books vied for worst of the month. xD  The Mailbox by Audrey Shafer takes the cake though. (Or doesn't, I guess??)  Most of it was just so darn creepy. Living with a dead body? A body that goes missing for weeks? Like I said—weird. And slightly warped.

Total Reads: 10

|| Writing. |||| UpdateThere wasn't much going on this month in the way of actual writing and editing, just a few chapters of War Tears and some work in a fanfiction story I start years ago and dove back into just because I didn't something new. I did, however, spend some time planning out what the year will like—what I'll be writing and editing each month, when I'll need to get projects to betas and then an editor and a formatter, in order to release them in time. That sort of thing. ;)

|| Snippet

As she glided down the stairs, curiosity mounting, Silas swung the door wide and ushered Jenny Miles into the foyer.  

Victoria’s steps faltered and she paused, her fingers gripping the hand rail. “Hello, Jenny.”    

At her name, Jenny’s eyes lifted, her face solemn as she stood before Victoria. “Good day, Victoria.”  

“Is it?” Victoria descended the final steps and led Jenny into the parlor.  

“I…I beg your pardon?” Jenny managed, glancing back up the staircase as if someone was going to tackle her and cart her off to jail at any given moment.  

Victoria let it go. Jenny was too jumpy, too distracted, to even catch the sarcastic undertone of the words spoken to her.  

“Should I bring coffee?” Silas asked as Victoria and Jenny took opposing seats near the fireplace where no flame was kindled.  

“That would be fine, Silas,” Victoria nodded, even as the thought of sharing such a simple act with this woman whom she’d once called friend made her want to flee. Heaven help her, but playing the happy hostess to the mother of the boy who’d caused her family this heartache might be more than she could bear. 

|| Blogging. || || Favorite PostsJoanne Bischof: A Faithful Leader

Sunshine and Joy: Identity Dreams and Future Plans

Twilight to Dawn: Your Pain is Real

Loved Before Time: When You Feel Like You've Blown It

Dancing in the Rain: An Ocean Away

The Peculiar Messenger: Contentment in God's Grace


|| My Posts




|| Goals. |||| January Goals• Read 12+ books.      With books of the Bible, yeah, technically.

• Finish editing War Tears.     Ha. Ha. Haaaaa. No.

• Post weekly on each blog.      Nope.

• Re-vamp both blogs.      For sure nope.


|| February Goals• Read 8 books.

• Edit 15 chapters.

• Finish a short story.

• Co-host a blog party with this gal. (Starts Monday!)


favorite highlight from january? best laugh, best book, best moment? 

Widow's Heart by Willowy Whisper {Book Review + Blog Tour}

Welcome, ladies and gents, to a stop on Willowy Whisper's blog tour for her newest standalone novel, Widow's Heart. All the info and my review is down below. And, of course, the lovely cover. :D

// synopsisHe only wanted justice.
She only wanted peace.

Gabe Anderson didn’t come to San Belfry to kill. He didn’t even know he’d left a widow until it was too late. But it wasn’t his fault. He had done the only thing he could do, because he had to find those men. He had to uncover their masks. He couldn’t let his brother’s killers go unpunished.

Essie Kincaid didn’t even see it coming. She didn’t know the truth until it was too late, until her husband was dead. Now she’s faced with the wrath of an entire town. She’s an outcast for the second time, and as her world sinks deeper into an abyss of madness, she must fight for the only thing she has left . . . her life.

As the two are thrown together in a devastating plight, it doesn’t make sense for them to fall in love. Too much has happened. Too much lingers between them. Yet as their bruised souls begin to mend together, other forces are already forming to keep them apart. Does their last hope of happiness even stand a chance?

Paperback ~ eBook ~ Goodreads


// reviewOh my stars, what a ride.

Miss Willowy's books never fail to take me on a wild, heart-pounding, emotion-engaging journey of love, mystery, loss, and the overpowering grace of God. Widow's Heart was no exception.

From the addictive writing style, to the precious and intricate cast of characters, to the fascinating mystery, this deeply-woven novel tugged me in from the first pages. I devoured every word within 24 hours. Although I had some suspicions concerning the identity of the final outlaw, I had absolutely no idea who took the money. Such a superb twist.

The raw, deep pain displayed within the pages is so real you can feel it, and the love and grace that covers all so wholesome and healing. The faith of the characters touched and encouraged my heart.

The romance wasn't as much a part of the story as I'd expected it to be, but I loved it so much. So beautiful, heart-rending, and just oh-so sweet.

While not my favorite book by this talented young author, this novel was everything I'd hoped it to be and I'm so glad I got to read it. Basically, I just adored Gabe. <33

A solid 4 stars!

(Content: Several deaths, by gunshot wounds, hanging, or a slitted throat. Some kissing and suggestive comments.)


**I received a complimentary e-copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. A positive review was not required.** 


// author bioWILLOWY WHISPER is a young, Christian fiction author. She lives in a beautiful place called West Virginia, nestled between mountain and field. She is the author of ten novels, nine of which are published, and numerous short stories. She enjoys playing the piano, the guitar, and the ukulele; painting; photography; and graphic design. She is also a born-again believer in Jesus Christ, an incurable romantic, and a passionate dreamer. To follow her, visit her blog at www.willowywhisper.com.

Blog ~ Facebook ~ Instagram ~ YouTube


are you a fan of Willowy's books? what's your favorite historical mystery/suspense?

An Adventure.

So, turns out I'm not dead.

Days after stating that I planned to blog weekly throughout the year and have a stronger online author presence, I did exactly the opposite. I hopped on a plane, flew off to the sunny snowy state of Kansas, and let "normal life" stay in the rearview for eight glorious days.

I have absolutely zero regrets.

I went on an adventure, y'all, and it was fabulous.

The girl who'd never been on a plane flew for the first time alone—and loved it.

The girl who'd never been over an hour from home on her own spent a week nearly 1,000 miles away.

There was a lot of other firsts—first time playing spoons, first time eating Spangles, first time experiencing flatlands snow.

*

This post is so random and disjointed and so short it doesn't even count, but that's okay. The gist of it is this: I'm not dead. I'm returning from my unplanned/unofficial hiatus. I'll be blogging lots in February.

And God is so good, y'all. <33

how have y'all been? tackled any adventures lately? 

What to Expect in 2019.

Hey there, lovelies!

As promised, I'm here to ramble on about what's to come this year, what 2019 will look like in my blogging and authoring life, and that sort of thing. I'm breaking it into sections and specifics to keep from being *too* disjointed and rambly.



|| Life. ||// WorkHopefully within the next few weeks, I'll have a full-time job at a nearby country store. There's a whole long, boring story behind that, which I'll refrain from deluging on y'all right now. But work is going to totally whack-out my nonexistent schedule. The plan is to juggle writing, editing, author responsibilities (emails, social media presence, newsletter), and blogging during non-work hours.


// ASLThis week, I began the second semester of my third year of American Sign Language. I'm not entirely certain what my future in this area will be, but after finishing ASL 3 and Conversational ASL in May, I'm planning to pursue ASL interpreter certification.


// OtherTo be honest... I have legit no idea what any other area of life will look like this year. *shrugs* I'll be traveling next week and hopefully going on our becoming-annual mission trip in June. Other than that? God's got this, I suppose. ;)


More: Being present in the moment. Having courage. Focusing on the good and going for the gold.

Less: Stressing over things that don't matter. Trying to please people who don't deserve it.



|| Blog. ||// DesignI was planning to totally revamp both my blog's design formats—and I still am. But I've also toyed with the idea of combining the two blogs, and posting faith-related articles here each Saturday, instead of on Chosen Vessels. Not sure if/when that will happen or what it consists of, so for now I'm keeping it separate. And yes, updating the design. :D


// Posts ScheduleI'm planning for one post a week on each blog. If time, energy, and inspiration permits, there may be two here on occasion. Saturdays are the norm for posts on Chosen Vessels, and I'm not setting a specific day for Stories by Firefly. Probably Mondays or Tuesdays, additional posts on Thursdays or Fridays. And, as usual, monthly recaps will be on or within a day or two of the last day of the month.


// Monthly RecapsThe monthly recaps of Stories by Firefly are often my most popular posts, so they will remain. However, I'm changing the design, re-working the layout, and tweaking the content. Less meh and more quality, for lack of a better way to put it. ;) Stick around to the end of the month to see what that means!


More: Updates on my writing—what I'm up to, how it's coming, that sort of things. Writing related posts in general, advice and such.

Less: Blog tours. Boring nonsense. Tags. Basically, less stuff that's fun but not that engaging, or find a way to make it engaging.



|| Authoring. ||// War Tears So, um, yeah. I've been talking about this book for ages, and I honestly feel kinda bad that I haven't gotten it out to the world yet... But while editing the other day, I realized something. Something that changed the way I view the entire hunk of 127,000 words.

This story is no longer my heart. 

Dandelion Dust was my heart for a season, and now A Soldier's Freedom is. War Tears had it's season too, but that season is not now. And ya know what? That's just fine.

The reason I've been having a hard time working through edits isn't because the book is awful or the story is pointless or the characters are drab—even though all some of those things may or may not be true. It's because it's not my heart, the theme not passion.

So, War Tears. My WWII baby, the first book I started writing. It'll still see it's publication date, hopefully sooner rather than later. For now, I'm going to continue editing, and I have a few alphas lined up, but I'm not rushing things. If it's meant to be, it'll be.


// A Solder's FreedomAhh, yes, the one thing that's actually going according to plan and sticking to a schedule. Baring any catastrophe—like an earthquake or my tragic demise—this darling tale (not that I'm biased) will be released the second week of September. National Suicide Prevention Week. The first book in a trilogy that does/will deal with harsh topics and raw pain, this is a book so dear to my heart. I can't wait to share it with y'all! <3


// NaNo NovelI'm hoping to participate in NaNoWriMo this November and write a new novel. Most likely the second book in the trilogy that A Soldier's Freedom seems to be broadening into...with or without my permission. ;) I'm hoping to write that book this year, as well as another idea I've had on the back-burner for awhile, and hopefully some short stories for the blog.


More: Devotion to putting the words on the page. Social media presence—Instagram, Facebook, Goodreads, newsletter.

Less: Months of not writing. Procrastination. Mediocre planning and marketing.


so yup, that's the plan! what are you aiming for this year? 

Goodbye 2018 >>> Hello 2019

goodbye 2018A year has ended, a new one has just begun.

And Faith is setting down to curse bless y'all with her thoughts and opinions on the matter a week late because she's still trying to put her thoughts into words. For a writer, you'd think this would be fairly easy. It isn't. Mostly because I don't even know where to begin.

2018 was nothing like I thought it would be on January 1st. And yet, in many ways, it was so much more than I even dared to hope.

January through April was an absolutely crazy season. I was swamped with wrapping up my final semester of high school (chemistry lab reports, anyone?), keeping up with blogging, and sorta having a real life. Although it was wild and crazy (gracious, I even wrote about stress during those months), it was a good season. The posts I wrote then are among some of my favorites as I look back today. I created pottery, took 864 selfies, planned a trip, and published a wee little book.

Then May. I finished high school and took a hiatus from blogging and traveled across the continent. Taking two tests, my last two subjects to complete, in one day and then celebrating by having supper with friends were pretty darn epic. A few days later, my family packed up and set out. Three weeks on the road, going nearly coast to coast, through like eighteen states, getting to see/meet three darling friends... It was so amazing.

here's a random pic of my cute (not-so-little) little bro in CA.
In case y'all were getting bored. 
Next up... Summer. It was awesome. Senior pics, graduations party, a mission trip. Turning eighteen—and attempting to "adult." Getting caught in the rain, spontaneous ice cream, long walks, starting a new job, and days by the pool. Wildflowers to pluck, sunsets to chase, laughter to share, and memories to be made. Cute sundresses, adorable puppies, country music...all the lovely things summer should be made of.

The mission trip in June was particularly awesome. Old friends to catch up with, new friends to make. Work to do and the Gospel to share. Long van rides, shingle jokes, games of jenga, and matching t-shirts. I don't even know how to sum up everything that week was. <3

September was...different? Not starting school like any other good kid was weird. xD I had my first ever author event—a table at a book fair for local authors—so that was fabulous. Then, I spent most of the month house/dog sitting about half an hour from home. (I came home for supper nearly every night, ssshhh.)

October through December was a wild and crazy end to the year. I keep using those words, but it's true. Mostly normal life, with more work, another two weeks of house-sitting, getting to meet another online friend, and publishing another book.

Reading back over this, it doesn't sound that out-of-the-ordinary. It sounds pretty...normal. Just life. Just living and breathing and trying to make some sort of a difference in this ol' world.

But it was so far from ordinary. I don't even feel like the same girl who wrote a recap of 2017 only twelve short months ago. I'm not. Yet in so many ways, I still am her. Always will be.


// Accomplishments
published a short story/novelette published a collection of Christmas short stories traveled across the continent hosted/co-hosted two blog partieswrote 161 blog postsgraduated from high schoolwrote 72,000 words in WIPsread 200 bookswent on a week-long youth/ministry tripturned 18spent nine weeks away from homemet/re-met four online friends in persongrew closer to God <3


hello 2019Hey there, 2019. I'm rather looking forward to you. A few weeks ago, I wasn't. New Years Eve, I still wasn't. I'd gotten used to 2018. It was a crazy year, but it was so good.

I didn't want to say goodbye. But without goodbyes there would be no hellos. So I'm being brave and having "good courage." My 2019 word of the year was (quite literally) dropped in my lap a few weeks ago.

Courage. This will be a year of stepping out, being courageous, and leaning on God's strength. Let's believe that greater things are ahead than anything we've left behind.

Dear 2019, I can't wait to see what you bring. <3


// Goals
publish War Tearspublish A Soldier's Freedomstart full-time jobread 160 booksblogging consistently read the Bible, cover to covertravelgo on a missions tripexercise more

best memories of 2018? what are you most looking forward to in 2019?

Christmas Release, 200 Books, & A Blog Party || December Recap

(Yes, this is a tad late. We're going to blame that on the fact that Faith has been enjoying not blogging and reading an exorbitant amount of books. But here I am. Better late than never, am I right?)



I released a book, hosted a Christmas party, read 200 books... Oh, and it's been a year since I last wrote a December recap?? Like, what?? It's 2019—2018 is over? I haven't talked to y'all since last year?!

SAY WHAT.


|| Life. ||>> We got over a foot of snow. Legit made me so happy. We were snowed in all weekend and I read four books and we got ridiculously tired of each other and it was fab. xD




>> You might be in the south, if the Taco Bell guy says "sorry for the wait, y'all. Alright, y'all have a good day now."


>> Having five dozen wacko conversations like this one.

Bro: a sister is something you have and don't want. A wife is something you want and don't have.Me: *burst out laughing*Bro: Wait... I think I said that wrong...?

>> My family went shopping one day, a week or two before Christmas. After hitting several stores and wandering Main Street, we went to Dairy Queen for lunch. And got locked in the restrooms. No joke.

So like, you go through the seating area and through this door into a hall that has restrooms and some employees entrance or something. My mom, bro, and I went in, and when we're headed back to the restaurant where Dad was waiting...the door we'd legit just came through wouldn't open. We all tried it (laughing until we couldn't breathe, of course), and it would wiggle but wouldn't open.

Apparently we were just doing something wrong and laughing too hard to realize it, because a guy on the other side heard us and got up to let us back in. So as we come through, laughing and telling Dad what happened, another guy spoke up across the room—"Y'all seem to be having way too much fun."

Yup, pretty much, sir.


>> Allll the Christmasyness. Christmas play + dinner at church, Christmas music everywhere, all the secrets and wrapping paper and packages received and packages to mail. Decorations, ornaments, nativities, books, outdoor lights *points*, a blog party, and SO MUCH DARN FOOD. Gracious, I love that time of year though. <3




>> Throughout the month, I spent about two weeks house-sitting/pet-sitting, for two different people/couples. One has an ADORABLE puppy who I basically just cuddled and adored and played with for like over a week...

Honestly, though. Just look at that face. And ignore my weird position.

>> Over the final weekend of the month/year, I enjoyed a fabulous readathon with a handful of other gals! It was so much fun. We had crazy-random discussions, read loads of books/pages, and danced in confetti...virtually, of course. ;)



|| Books. ||
// booksAn Endless Christmas by Cynthia Ruchti -- 5 stars -- Review
A Happy Trails Christmas by Roy Rogers & Dale Evans -- 4 stars
Silent Star by Tracie Peterson -- 4 stars -- Review
A Christmas Peril by Diane Moody -- 5 stars
Hope Your Heart Needs by Holley Gerth -- 4 stars -- Review
Savanna's Gift by Camille Eide -- 5 stars -- Review
Decree by Tricia Mingerink -- 4 stars -- Review
The 12 Ways of Christmas by David Jeremiah -- 4 stars
At Your Request by Jen Turano -- 3 stars
Coffee Shop Christmas by Ryana Miller -- 4 stars -- Review
Then Came You by Becky Wade -- 4 stars
The Old Mansion's Secret by Rebekah A. Morris -- 4 stars
The Christmas Joy Ride by Melody Carlson -- 3.5 stars
The Haunted Cabin Mystery by Gertrude Chandler Warner -- 3 stars
The Angel of Bastogne by Gilbert Morris -- 3.5 stars
Runaway by Dandi Daley Mackall -- 4 stars


short stories //The Least of These by Kate Willis -- 4 starsEmmanuel by Angela R. Watts -- 5 starsSongs in Our Memories by R.A. Rooney -- 3.5 starsEven in the Grey by Laura Guenot -- 4 starsKind by Kellyn Roth -- 4 stars -- ReviewThe Villain Who Saved Christmas by C.B. Cook -- 4 starsThese Three Things by Gracelyn Buckner -- 5 stars


|| Writing. ||December in the writing realm was...interesting. I always say that, don't I? I can't say the month was exactly productive... But it wasn't bad? I published a book, wrote a short story, tried to keep up with editing and failed, and planned January to be an EPIC month.


I published my darling collection of Christmas stories! Behold turned out to be such a cute, lovely little book. (Lovely on the outside anyway. I guess y'all will have to be the judges of the inside.) But yup, it's out in the frightening world of Amazon, in paperback and Kindle.

Other progress in the writing world would be the cutesy little Christmas story I finished (after starting in '15 or '16...), edited, and shared on the blog this month. A Carnathan Christmas is a prequel to War Tears, the epic novel y'all have heard me talk, cry, whine, and ramble about for like years. Which I'll hopefully have a major update on by the end of January...so stick around, kay? There will probably be more tears.



|| Blogging. ||// favorite postsA Small Dream ~ Important Nothings

it's just part of the story ~ Twilight to Dawn

I See You Growing ~ Dancing in the Rain


// my posts

Day One ~ Day Two ~ Day Three ~ Day Four




One ~ Two ~ Three ~ Four ~ Five ~ Six ~ Seven ~ Eight ~ Nine ~ Ten ~ Eleven ~ Twelve


|| Goals. ||// December Goals >> Read 15 books.     YESS.

>> Publish Behold.     *nods*

>> Host 12 Days of Christmas blog party.    Ahaha, yes.

>> Edit pt.2 of War Tears.    ...no??


// January Goals>> Read 12+ books. (Yes, I'm crazy.)

>> Finish editing War Tears. (Even if it kills me.)

>> Post weekly on each blog. (Quality posts, at that.)

>> Re-vamp both blogs. (More on this coming soon!)



How was your Christmas? Did you read any adorable Christmas reads? What was the randomest thing that happened to you this month? If you tell me you've also been locked in a DQ hallway, I'll probably laugh until I choke... 
~Faith

12 Days of Christmas // Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas, everyone!

As a brief wrap-up of the party, let me just say... this year was fabulous. Probably the strongest year of 12DoC to date. We totaled at over 140 posts (SAY WHAAA?!), a great deal of interaction, nearly 200 giveaway entries, and so. much. fun.

I really want to be able to say that I've read and commented on each participating post, but that wasn't true as I wrote this last night...and probably still isn't if you're reading this without in a few hours of when it goes up. ;) I look forward to reading the rest, though. Everything I've made my way through thus far has been so amazing.

Thank you all so much to everyone who took part! Y'all are the best for supporting my lil' Christmas party. <3 It's truly been a delightful almost-two-weeks...although I'll enjoy stepping away from the blog until my monthly recap on the 31st. xD

And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. 

// Luke 2:10-11

Blessings to you all this glorious day on which we celebrate the immaculate birth of our Savior. <3




// giveawayOne last thing! The winners of this year's 12DoC giveaway are...

first place || The Christmas Secret + Behold + Christmas: God with Us CD || Amie
second place || Seek + Coffee Shop Christmas || Molly Anne
Congratulations, y'all! How fun to have one of our 12DoC-ers as a winner. :) I'll be contacting you both via email shortly, so we can get your prizes sent!



// today's schedule Hands Made to Love || Thank You

Life of Heritage || Christmas Story (part 8) & Wrap-Up

Qadash - Set Apart, for Him || 12 Days of Christmas - Yeshua is the Reason

Inside Out Designs || Christ is Born

Lit Aflame || What if Christmas Isn't What We Say It Is

The Ramblings of a Bookworm || Till the Dawn Breaks pt.2

The Ramblings of a Bookworm || Christmas Day Rambles

RebekahAshleigh || Merry Christmas

Resting Life || Great Tidings We Bring // We Wish You a Merry Christmas



Merry Christmas! Hope y'all each have a blessed day, basking in the Savior's love. <3 
~Faith

12 Days of Christmas // A Carnathan Christmas {pt.4}

Merry Christmas Eve! Hope y'all enjoy the final part of this year's story. :)



Monday, December 23rd, 1940 


The old sleigh slid through the winter wonderland, the soon-to-be Carnathan couple nestled inside. After a morning spent decorating a handpicked Christmas tree that the guys hauled inside, snow still fluttering from the branches, David had grabbed his girl and slipped out the backdoor. Raymond watched through the window, a smile on his kind face, as they skirted around the barn and climbed into the sleigh he used to ride in with his own girl. Sometimes, they still did. 

On a wooded lane through the farming community, David guided the mare through the ruts—made by a variety of farm wagons, tractors, and trucks. At a gap in the split-rail fence, he directed the horse out across the snowy field. 

“What do you think?” David asked, glancing to his right and finding Beth grinning back at him. 

She leaned her head back and drew in a deep breath, filling her lungs with the frosty cold air. “It’s so pretty out here, especially with all the snow. The God we serve is so amazing… And quite the Artist I might add.” 

“No argument there.” David smiled, gazing down and studying the serene look on her face. “I figured we might need some time alone and a sleigh ride sounded like the best idea.” 

“One horse open sleigh.”

“Something like that. You know, the bad thing about driving this sleigh is that I can’t hold your hand.” 

Laughing, Bethany scooted closer and looped her arms through his, tilting her head to rest against his shoulder. “That doesn’t matter. Just knowing you would be if you could satisfies me.” 

David bent down and planted a kiss in her hair, giving the reins a slow snap. “Get along, old girl.” 




Tuesday, December 24th, 1940


On Christmas Eve, a steady stream of neighbors threaded through the Carnathan’s home for most of the day, exchanging an array of small gifts and baked goods for similar parcels to carry to their own places of abode. 
And—of course—everyone wanted to catch up with the returned son and meet his fiance. By the time they’d escorted the last friend to the door, calling out goodbyes and merry christmases, Bethany was tuckered from the repetitious small talk. Still, there was something special about meeting all of the people who her David had known all his life. 

After supper, Lydia shooed her out of the kitchen with instructions to enjoy the rest of the evening. Giving in, she wandered into the front room and sank to the hearth. The flickering flames sent skitters of warmth up her back. 
David moved from the couch to sit beside her, then silently pointed above them. Bethany turned her eyes in that direction. Uh, oh. 

The sprig of mistletoe that Erin had hung there earlier spun gaily in the firelight. She looked back to her fiancé. “Don’t go getting any bright ideas, young Mr. Carnathan.” 

“Young Mr. Carnathan?” 

She grinned. “You’re young Mr. Carnathan and—” she nodded across the room to where David's father sat in the rocker, “—your father is old Mr…” The flames of a blush crept up her face as she realized what she’d said. “Oh my goodness. I—I’m terribly sorry, Mr. Carnathan. I didn’t mean that the way it sounded.”

Raymond chuckled, heartily. “Don’t apologize, dear. We all know you didn’t mean it that way.” 

Everyone laughed and, this once, Bethany didn’t color red at being the subject of their merriment. 

“Where does that leave me?” Michael spoke up. 

“You’re not old enough to earn the title of ‘mister’,” David suggested, earning himself an eyeroll. 

Bethany smiled and leaned her head onto David's strong shoulder. Raymond and Lydia were the best future in-laws she could’ve asked for. So understanding and encouraging, always loving no matter what. She hadn’t been in a real family setting for so long, and it was an absolutely wonderful feeling.



Wednesday, December 25th, 1940


Bethany awoke Christmas morning with an overwhelming sense of intense joy. She could almost feel the euphoria welling up inside of her. It wasn’t the same excitement she’d felt on Christmas mornings during her growing up years. This was different; deeper and more special. She was in a houseful of people who cared about her, loved her. They’d been David’s family when she’d met them, but that had changed in just a few days. Now they were her family, too, and she loved each of them dearly. 

She crawled out of bed and peeked through the curtains framing the icy window panes. A new, light snow blanket covered the disturbed snowfall from Saturday. How beautiful, she mused, a smile lighting her face. 

Turning away from the window, she realized that the house was quiet. Everyone must still be asleep. Bethany moved toward the dresser, thinking she could go on downstairs and start coffee for the family. 

She quickly dressed in a green dress with a holly and berry print, deciding to save her Christmas dress to wear to the church service tonight. She was brushing her hair when the creaking of the screen door breaking the morning stillness caught her attention. 

Pushing aside the curtain once again, she peered down to the yard below. David’s familiar figure moved from the side door toward the barn, his footprints the only ones in the winter whiteness. Apparently someone else was awake. 

Smiling to herself, Bethany skipped pinning up her hair and slipped out of the room. She tiptoed down the hallway, being careful not to make any noises that may wake someone. A few special moments alone with David this morning would be nice. 

She stopped at the door to yank on her boots and pull on her coat and scarf before slipping out into the cold, frosty morning. 


~*~


David cringed at the screeching of the screen door as it moved to rest against the doorframe. Someone really needed to oil those hinges. 

He drew in a deep breath of the crisp morning air as he tramped through the snow. It was such a beautiful Christmas morning. David smiled to himself on his way to the barn to milk Darling, the family milk cow. 

Over a thousand years ago our Savior came to save us, knowing He would die the terrible death of crucifixion for our sins. What a day, so worthy of celebration. Having Beth here with him and the family this Christmas made it all the more glorious. She made his life complete; added something he hadn’t even realized he was missing. And that something was very special.

Mind and heart filled with happy, Christmas joy, David whistled as he greeted Darling, wishing her a merry Christmas, and strode to drag over the milking stool. He’d just sat down when he nearly got startled out of his senses. 

Warm, red mittens appeared out of nowhere and clapped over his eyes. Guessing who it might be, David grinned, reminded his heart to beat, and waited for the rest of the prank. 

“My, my, who do we have here?” A sweet voice exclaimed. “Someone stealing milk on Christmas morning! Well, I’ll be! Maybe I’ll yell for Michael and his shotgun…” 

David chuckled under his breath and decided to go along with her charade. “Please ma’am, don’t do that! I’d be willing to milk the cow and do whatever else you may need done, just don’t have me killed,” he pleaded, clasping his hands in mock repentance. 

At his silly pleas, her hands fell away from his eyes and he tilted his head back to get a better view of her face. 
“It is Christmas, you know.” 

“So it is,” she smiled down at him before slipping her arms around his neck. He returned her embrace and, after releasing, nodded to Darling. 

“Mind if I finish my chores now?” 

“Go ahead.” Bethany grinned, crossed her arms tightly against her stomach, and leaned against a support post. “It’s nice to have a few minutes alone with you this morning.” 

“Yeah, it is,” he agreed, smiling up at her, and then set to work milking the cow, streams of white splattering inside the metal pail. “I figure, there’s no reason for Dad and Michael to have to come out in the cold when I’m perfectly capable of handling chores this morning.” 

While David milked and cleaned Darling’s stall, Bethany wandered around the barn—commenting to him on this and that. 

David was starting up the ladder to throw down hay for Dad’s pair of draft horses when Beth’s exclaiming gasp met his ears. “David, look!” The excited whisper soon followed. 

He looked over to find Beth standing in the doorway, her back to him. Jumping down from his start up the ladder and nearly tripping over the milking stool in his clumsiness, he hurried to her side. 

“What is it?” 

She didn’t speak, only pointed out across the yard. 

There, in the shimmering glitter of sunlight on snow, stood a mother deer and her fawn, silhouetted by the rising sun. As he watched, in awe of God’s creativity, small fingers slid into his. 

“That says it all, doesn’t it?” she whispered, seeming fearful of breaking the perfect serenity, cocking her head to the side. “The beauty, the innocence, the peace, and the pure white of the snow. It’s glorious.” 

His attention veering with his gaze, David silently admired his fiancé. A lump clogged his throat as his chest warmed with love for this sweet woman, his soon-to-be wife. “I really want to kiss you right now,” he murmured softly.

She turned to look up at him, a sly gleam in her blue eyes, stepping closer to him and slipping her arms around his waist. 

His arms encompassed her small frame, holding her snugly against him. Amazing how comfortably she fit there—how right it felt. 

“Merry Christmas, sweetheart,” he whispered into her ear. 

“Merry Christmas, my darling,” she replied, her voice muffled against his wool coat. 

An aggravated moo sounded through the barn door, left open by the couple. They laughed in unison. 

“Merry Christmas to you too, Darling!” 



// today's schedule Inside Out Designs || Author Interview: Faith Potts

Read Another Page || The Case of the Very Bad Cat

Qadash - Set Apart, for Him || 12 Days of Christmas - Hallelujah - What does it mean?

Lit Aflame || How to Make THE BEST Iced Sugar Cookies in Existence

The Peculiar Messenger || Live

Rebekah's Reading Room || A Carol in Her Heart (part 3)

RebekahAshleigh || Christmas, My Favorite Time of Year

Hands Made to Love || Candy Cane Cocoa Recipe

Literatura || Christmas Goodies

Resting Life || Not-So-Silent Night // Silent Night // Self-Control

Life of Heritage || Christmas Story (part 7)

Hands Made to Love || The Pine Tree Parable

Novels, Dragons, and Wardrobe Doors || Favorite Underrated Christmas Hymns

Chosen Vessels || The Christmas Candle {Book Review}



Thanks for reading the story, dears! Last day to enter the giveaway! <3
~Faith

12 Days of Christmas // Short Story Recs {pt.3}

Merry Christmas Eve Eve! *wink*  Today I've got the last installment of the 3-part short story recommendations series and tomorrow is the final part of A Carnathan Christmas. Who else can hardly believe the party is nearly over?



Christmas by the Sea by Beth Wiseman

Parker McIntyre is late evacuating Galveston Island prior to a hurricane, despite advisement from local Texas authorities. When Parker becomes trapped in rising floodwaters, he is going to drown if help doesn’t arrive soon. Fearing death and questioning his faith, he thinks about the young son he’ll be leaving behind.

Alexandria Hanson is on her way off the island to escape the immediate storm threat, but she spots a person trapped in the water. Alex—as she’s called by friends and family— isn’t adventuresome by nature. Helping the man is going to require great personal risk, but she can’t leave him to die.

As Alex joins Parker in the murky Gulf waters, a dangerous situation becomes even more serious as they wait to be rescued. With only each other to lean on, they attempt to quell their fears by praying together and sharing stories. 

If Parker and Alex leave the island alive, will they have a chance to explore their feelings during the holiday season? Or will the opportunity be lost forever?


I've read this story nearly every Christmas for several years now. Which is kinda weird, because it's not entirely a Christmas story? It has more to do with a hurricane and the aftermath. But with a unique tale and well-rounded characters, it's packed with meaning and love. I finished with happy feels. <3




A Christmas Disaster by Rebekah A. Morris

As the students of Coolidge High School prepare for their annual Christmas play, excitement mounts. Performed at the local theater, the play, with the students in complete charge of, the performances has become a tradition in town. Everything is going well until the morning of the final performance when calamity hits. Should the students cancel the final performance or try to turn the disaster into something good?


I was surprised by how much I adored this story! To often, I feel like teenagers get labeled for being irresponsible, disrespectful, electronic-addicted brat. And while that's true for some, why don't we focus on the good kids instead of dismally dwelling on the others? The kids in this one were certainly exceptional.


A Change of Heart by Anika Walkes

Nina is a college freshman just trying to get through her first year with social anxiety and no mishaps - until her roommates drag her out for a coffee break, not knowing that the simple trip will change her life forever.

A Change of Heart is a contemporary romance short story full of coffee shops, Christmas, and mistletoe.


This story is so darn adorable. Nina's anxiety over talking to a nice-looking guy was relatable, the romance was utter cuteness—and did I mention the cover is lovely?

(Get the story for free by subscribing to Anika's newsletter!)


Red Boots by Kate Willis

Old Joey’s lips fell open in astonishment as he examined a pair of boots. They were bright red, standing out like a forgotten apple on an autumn tree. He whistled, long and low. “Red boots!”

A pair of shiny red boots bring unexpected Christmas joy to a shopkeeper and a little girl.


Red Boots was such a sweet little story, that touched my heart and brought a smile to my face! The authoress did an excellent job at transporting the reader to Old Joey's shop, and bringing the characters to life inside only a few pages. I truly enjoyed! <3

(Psst! This story is also permafree on Amazon Kindle, so you should totally go get it... *wink*)

Emmanuel by Angela R. Watts

"Make safe the way that leads on high, and close the path to misery. . ."

In dystopian America, with civil unrest and wars among the states, illegal activity is rampant and only the strongest survive. Reese Burns is one of the strong fighters. He doesn’t need Jesus to fight, either.

Ezekiel, a ten-year-old child living in a fight dome, insists he get the answer about the story of Christmas. On Christmas Eve, Reese sets out to find the boy the best gift he’s capable of giving. The story of Jesus. The story only brings Reese pain at first, but then he’s forced to make a choice when a miracle happens. Can Reese choose faith in an unseen God in the midst of chaos?

An Infidel Books short story prequel. 


I had the pleasure of beta-reading this story for Angela, and gracious, it was good. I'm usually not one for dystopian, but Emmanuel was fabulously done and I'm looking forward to the Infidel Books.




// today's scheduleLife of Heritage || My Favorite Christmas Songs

Inside Out Designs || Christmas Writing Music

Resting Life || Let's Call It Gentleness // Away in a Manger // Gentleness

Chosen Vessels || Savanna's Gift by Camille Eide {Book Review}

Read Another Page || The Christmas Joy Ride

RebekahAshleigh || Another Christmas Tag



Have you read any of these? What sort of Christmas preparations do you have planned for the day? 
~Faith