Sunday, October 31, 2010

October Snow in Vermont





When I woke up this morning, I saw snow all over the ground. I was so excited! The snow is still falling gently over the landscape. The sun has not entirely come up yet, so it is still a bit dark out. I took the above picture just a few minutes ago. It is part of our back property.

When it snows out, I am inspired to cook and bake. I want to read near the hearth and just stay home.  It puts me in the best of moods.

Hope you have a wonderful day!

blessings
Mrs. White


- To find out more about this blog, or Mrs. White, please visit our About page. -

Sunday, October 24, 2010

Review - The Thorn by Beverly Lewis

Book - The Thorn (1st book in The Rose Trilogy) by Beverly Lewis

Publisher - Bethany House

Description from the publisher:

"Lancaster County, with its rolling meadows and secret byways, may seem idyllic, but it is not without its thorns. The Rose Trilogy is the stirring saga of two Amish sisters, and the events and decisions that change their lives.
Spirited Rose Ann Kauffman has long enjoyed a close friendship with the bishop's rebellious foster son. Rose's older sister, Hen--who knows more than she should about falling for the wrong man--cautions her against him, but Rose is being courted by another, and so dismisses the warnings.

Hen Kauffman Orringer's impulsive marriage to an outsider divided her from the People, a decision she regrets now that she has a daughter of her own. As Hen struggles to reclaim aspects of Amish culture, her very modern husband pushes back, and the two soon come to an impasse. Can she find a way to reconcile her longing for the Old Ways with the life she has chosen?"

My Thoughts:

Bevery Lewis is a master storyteller. I have read several of her books and this one is the best she has ever written. Her seamless ability to change a "scene" from chapter to chapter amazed me. I was intrigued by this story and adored the characters. I loved stepping into the world of the Amish for a time and didn't want the book to end!

I saw some parallels between our Christian culture struggling with worldliness compared to The Amish families in this story, losing their children and interacting with the world around them. I was absolutely thrilled when the main character stood her ground time and again for what is right. Beverly provides plenty of godly wisdom through this story. I learned many things and was encouraged. I was entertained and educated. I highly recommend this book!

*Disclosure - I received a copy of this book from the publisher for review purposes.*

From the Archives -

Encouragement - Waiting for the Door to Be Opened.

We Must Always Remember - The House Comes First

A Blessing to Be - Just a Housewife. (With a little history)


- To find out more about this blog, or Mrs. White, please visit our About page. -




Friday, October 8, 2010

Seeking Rest in the Midst of Duty


I have spent part of the morning pondering the thoughts of the Puritans and being refreshed in my spirit. I have several things to do and need a cheerful perspective. I need to know that what I am called to do, God will equip me for the work set before me.

I want to stay home and sew and read stories to the children. I want to bake cookies and make a delicious home cooked supper. I want to tidy and clean and organize and set the table in a delightful way to bring joy and rainbows to all those who gather here.

But for today, this will not happen. Too many other things must be done. Yet, I will keep home in my heart and find a way to have peace, and minister to those I meet today. What would it be like if homekeepers were  ambassadors of godly motherhood and home by our dress and demeanor?

It will be a lovely day. I will find joy in whatever I must do. I will cheer the hearts of those around me.  But first I must listen to some soothing hymns, and read more of my Bible. I need the strength. All will be well.

blessings
Mrs. White

 - To find out more about this blog, or Mrs. White, please visit our About page. -

 

For happiness and cheer in the kitchen:

Mrs. White's old fashioned cookbook focuses on serving meals and setting the table in a humble home.


"Serving in the Kitchen: Cookbook with Recipes, Advice, and Encouragement for the Christian Home"

152 pages, paperback