I decide to put on some music ,the heartbeat of my day. The first to show up for book club is Mr. Clives. This bugs me a little because he's traveled the world and I'm sure nothing I know would interest him.He makes quite the spectacle on the front stoop drenched wearing a Lt. Columbo coat and a fedora befitting Frank Sinatra. I can imagine Mr. Clives at one of those old celebrity roasts with Dean Martin. Trying not laugh I feel as though he might say, "Clives, Inspector Clives, where's the body?" If he were a man of humor, which he is not, I would open the door and say "Mrs White , in the Library with the candlestick..." But instead I find myself saying,"Good morning Mr. Clives, how are you?" He looks at me smugly "Oh fine Miss Richards, this weather is much like that of the weather in Europe where I spent many years." Yes, how could I have forgotten, a pox upon me for being the commoner I am. Never having been out of the country, my company is far less suitable for Mr. Clives than that of Mrs. Batinkoff. The lovely Russian woman immigrated many years ago and is in the words of "Inspector Clives" "most agreeable and charming". I'm convinced he only comes to these primitive little gatherings because of her. He comes in and hands me his coat, "May I take your ...hat ( trying really hard not to giggle). "Thank you." he says heading into the sitting area. As I hang up his detective gear I notice Jackie making a run for it across the street where she parked her brand new minivan. Baby number one and her and her husband already got a minivan...soo cute. The baby carrier is covered with a blanket so little one month old Liam doesn't get wet. The wind must be getting stronger because the Elvis umbrella Jackie has in her free hand seems to keep going up. What a sweet mom. "Hi Jackie let me help you there", I say taking the umbrella and her raincoat. "Thanks, gee what crazy weather huh,maybe I should have put a life jacket on him..." She gestures to the baby and we both laugh.I hang up the wet baby blanket and begin to oooh and ahhh. Let me have a look at the wee Lad" I say with a scottish accent picking up the baby. Jackie's husband Mac is from Scotland and we joke about the way he says certain things. I spent lots of time with Jackie before Liam was born.She is like the sister I never had and since Mac travels a lot for business I kept her company while he was away. We watched Anne of Green Gables three times and Little Women more than that. I also taught her how to knit and make biscuits... Good times. As Jackie and Liam join Mr. Clives I hear laughter outside. Mrs. Batinkoff and Martin are making there way sharing an umbrella. Once again I open the door and welcome my guests,"Come on in out of that rain." "With Pleasure." says the prim old lady as she takes my hand in a squeeze/handshake. Sweet yet formal. She turns to Martin," Tankyou for sharingk your umbrella."

,"Your welcome Evi." Hmph...Evi, I never have known her first name. Apparently Martin is quite the charmer, she squeezes his hand too.

The Part You're Reading

After two years of hosting the book club the same folks still come. There is quite a variety among our group. Mrs.Batinkoff to start, is a seventy year old oil painter who immigrated from Russia in the seventies. Jackie is a modern day nineteen fifties house wife. She always has her nails painted red and brings her new born baby boy, Leo,to our meetings. There's Lydia the cleaning lady from church... Mr. Clives, who I think only comes because of the recently widowed Mrs. Batinkoff.No matter what she says he agrees. Martin , a newcomer joined us in the spring. He graduated from art school and came here, like me, to open a shop. He runs a pottery gallery where he sells and displays his creations. And last but not least there is Susan-b. Her name is actually Susan-b., I still haven't figured that one out. She's a crazy lady, She reads all the time, her husband too. They run an alpaca farm several miles outside of town. Once I went to their house to pickup some alpaca wool yarn I ordered from them. Susan's husband with an equally odd name, "D.T" opened the door and told me to "Come right in." My initial thought was "how?" There were books stacked everywhere,baskets of wool and a giant spinning wheel and loom right in the middle of the living room. Six tiny dogs of various breeds and obnoxious barks nipped at my ankles and tore about the house following us at break neck speed. They ran about with their toenails clickedy clacking the wood floor. As a result of this pandemonium all the throw rugs were flung to the right or left. But was D.T deterred, oh no. He led me down a hallway that smelled like incense to a room painted pumpkin orange with beads hanging over the door. "Sue, the book girl is here." he looked at me and winked oddly. There was Susan b. in a hammock suspended from the rooms corners. She was of course reading and wearing some sort of kimono. On the way out I noticed that one of the alpacas was wearing a string of beads around his neck. My next thought was "far out". Before I know it my work out video is over. I realize that the Bronx has yet to be walked. I look out the window and see that it's still pouring. There's only one thing to do. I find my self standing by the back door with a treat in my hand acting like one of those people who possess a bumper sticker that reads "I love my grand dog." My human-like dog is staring at me. I'm waving the treat, "Come on big boy go potty , go..outside...come on handsome." I wave the treat closer for effect.He's drooling and following the treat with his eyes. I think Iv'e got him and gleefully toss the treat into the tiny back lot. He looks out,looks up and goes back to his doggy bed. I roll my eyes. Closing the door I hear thunder rumble in the distance.

The Coffee Part

My eyes are squinting open. I hear music...the Chi-lites are signing "Oh Girl". I groggily wonder if they are in my room or on the radio. I remember now. I set my alarm clock for radio instead of that sweet buzzing option. I always find I feel harassed every morning by that thing. But the Chi-lites...aaahh. I could just lay here all day and go back to sleep. Downstairs I hear the "ding" of my coffee pot. "Time to make the donuts". I say to Bronx who is obviously dreaming about a giant possum. His eyebrows are twitching and he keeps licking his chops. "It's time to get up," I tell myself. I see it's raining. All of those cutesy Folgers commercials are coming to mind, I imagine a tall handsome man bringing me breakfast in bed... You know the bit with the fresh squeezed orange juice and the scones he just "whipped up". Haha.. not a chance. "Bronx, Bronx...fetch the coffee my love." He looks unmoved,"Bronx?" Yup, I'm on my own this morning. I throw off my covers and find its quite chilly in my room. I cant seem to find my robe so I put on my big woolly sweater.(by the way woolly looks ridiculous with two l's doesn't it.) The house is pretty dark so I turn on all the lamps as I fumble down the stairs. Finally the kitchen and the coffee. "Come to Mama you dark Kona King you." I say of the specialty blend I bought from The Daily Grind. When you live alone you tend to talk to yourself a bit, it doesn't worry me... maybe it should,haha. I fix my coffee,heavy whipping cream and just a bit of sugar, its my daily calorie splurge. Perching atop one of my ladder back chairs I begin to wonder about Dad. It breaks my heart that we feel so differently about the most important things in life. Dad just feels like Jesus is all inclusive, meaning anyone who donates blood or volunteers at the SPCA is His follower. I beg to differ. Believe me I believe Jesus is love because He tells us so Himself, people however aren't. Daddy naively believes man is basically good and that deep down inside we have an inner goodness and light. We have had this conversation many times, " I always say "Daddy, the only good in people is the good that Jesus brings." I have shown him in the Bible where it says that apart from God we have no good thing but He doesn't take those bits literally so... Back upstairs I change into my gym clothes. On these rainy days I walk inside with one of those perky dvd physical fitness people. As I march up and down the sitting area the mail man waves at me through the big front window. He winks as he tosses my mail in the slot on the front door. His umbrella is streaming with rain. Embarrassed I smile. My body is on auto pilot. I'm kicking right and left but thinking about what to discuss during my book club meeting in two hours. I wonder if anyone will come out in this weather.

The More Exciting Part

All night I lie half awake thinking about what Mark said. I also cant help thinking and praying about Tonie and her corageous descion. The mentoring for the young girls would be a great oppurtunity to share what God has done in my life... In a way I've already been mentoring... I know what Mavice would say, "Go for it." My window is cracked to let in some of the cool night air. It is a little chilly but I like it when I'm in my flannel p.j's. My thoughts are tumbling around and I cant sleep when suddenly I hear a clank outside. My ears perk I cant say as much for Bronx who is snoring already. I figure it was nothing and concentrate on sleep. "Clank!" There it is again. I decide I'de better check things out. I sit up and dig around in the night stand drawer for a flashlight. EEEwww something sticky has found my fingers. I cant very well see what it is. Blast! There it is. I switch on the battey operated light . Oh good grief its a cough drop half dissolved. The red dye is all on my hand. I stumble to the window and look out into the street. I figure I better not turn on my lamp lest it be a burgular. At least thats how they always do it in Perry Mason and Poirot. Across the street I can make out a figure, a very large figure. Im squinting to see better but to no avail, by this time of night in our little town everyone is asleep and the lights are all out. "Clank!" It sounds like something is hitting the concrete in front of Mrs. Crandly's shop. Whatever it is its making alot of rackett. Surely I'm not the only one hearing this. The clouds roll along and the moon is shining a little bit brighter, if I did'nt know better I'd say it was a a... Suddenly the shop ;light flashes on. "Great Scott! its a big old black bear eating Hammy's catfood in his metal bowl. The look on Mr. and Mrs. Crandlys faces from behind the shop door are priceless. The bear dashes into the shadows spooked and robbed of a free meal. Mrs. Crandly I can see is wearing some kind of Scottish tartan nightgown frm her ears to her ankles, and ... oh dear how unfortunate, Mr. Crandly is wearing much less. Obviously the Crandly's have never had a bear visit before. And judging by the baseball bat in his hand, Mr. Crandly wasn't at all sure what to exspect. How amazing though I've never seen a bear that close to home!

The Part I Just Wrote

His green eyes look into mine, and he says. " We really need somebody to mentor the girls in our Bible study." I'm sure my eyebrows lifted and my breathing had returned to normal. He had me a little freaked out for a minute there." They could really use some one on one discipleship.It's just something for you to think about and pray about." He looks out the window to see a group of girls laughing and flirting with some guys. Cassie being among them. I notice that he looks a little more concerned than before. "I just think they need some help maturing in the faith. Another thing too, some of the girls think church is like a club and you get in get a pass and then you're set. I wish you could help them see that there's so much more to life with Jesus than that." " I understand exactly what you mean , I'm really glad you and Pastor Daily are thinking about this. But, what about the guys? Not to put the fellas down but a lot of them are pretty immature to." "You're absolutely right and yes I will working with the guys specifically." " That's great Mark, well listen I'll let you know o.k?" I say as we walk back to the front of the shop. Suddenly the door flies open, and Cassie still smiling from her conversation outside comes sweeping in. "Hi Mark." she waves sweetly. Interesting. "Hey Jenna I wanted to tell you... that the blonde out there, the one with the brown t-shirt," she says pointing out the window where several guys and girls are still talking." That's Brice, Tonie's ex-boyfriend." " You mean he broke it off totally?" I know I sound surprised because I am. "No, Tonie did." Mark sensing that he was no longer useful in this setting decided to take his leave. " Well, I 'll leave you all to your ...chitchat. Bye. Thanks Jenna." the bell finalizes his departure. "Oh,Your welcome!" I yell through the door. "Tonie called it off?." I repeat to myself. " Do you know why?" I ask. " Well, I think Mark didn't care enough to change anything. That's what she told me anyway." Cassie shruggs. "How's she handling it?" " I've actually been surprised at how well she's taking it. But anyway as you can see."gesturing to Brice who is outside laughing and talking with some other girls," He is obviously not bothered at all. It's pathetic."Cassie says looking disgusted."I shake my head "Gee... well I'm proud of Tonie anyway. I really thought Brice would come around." " Yeah, but anyway I've been trying to keep her busy. I wanted to know if you'de like to go to a movie and have dinner with us Friday night?" " I'de love to, what movie are you thinking about?" " Well, I thought we could just go to The Falls Cinema and see one of their "black and white" dollar specials. Is that o.k?" " I love those movies, that would be great." Cassie turns to go and says "Isn't Mark adorable?"I laugh and quote Jane Bennett in Pride and Prejudice, " He is everything a young man ought to be." She laughs and says "You and those Public T.V Station Movies." "Ha ha,Bye Cassie."

The Part You Were Waiting For

As the day wears on I begin to wonder about Dad and if the Lord will ever move in his life. I decide to pray about it and tell the Lord that I trust Him but I'm feeling impatient. Mavice would say " Just keep castin' your biscuits on the creek." Which was her version of Ecclesiastes 11:1 that says "Cast your bread upon the waters, for after many days you will find it again." She used to say that when she was praying about something that seemed hopeless. For instance her youngest son, Dave, who turned from everything his parents had taught him. He rebelled and pursued a life filled with everything they opposed. She told me the whole story as it unfolded. I remember it so clearly. She was crushed but not without hope. She told me she wouldn't give up praying for Dave no matter what. That was the first time I heard her biscuits in the creek theory. Mavice meant that she believed that if she continuously lifted her son up to the Lord in prayer that one day she would reap the results of faithful intercession. Miraculously enough two years later her son got in with the right crowd you might say. He was challenged by peers instead of his parents and it really shook him. He started going to bible groups, then church and he eventually accepted Christ as his Savior. How I remember the day that Mavice and Bernard got a surprise visit from Dave. ( At this point the "Unshackled organ" begins to play..JUST KIDDING!) I was at their house for dinner as I often was and in walked Dave with a beautiful young woman. He introduced us to "Lark" his girlfriend. And then...he told his Mom and Dad all that had happened to him while he was away. We laughed and cried and rejoiced together when he shared that he had come to faith in the Lord. We rejoiced again when he shared that Lark was one of his reasons for going to church and that they were actually engaged! Everyone was hugging and teary. It was one of my most amazing experiences. To this day Dave and Lark are happily married and now have two children. Dave actually leads the children's ministry at our Church. The little bell rings over the shop door and I look up. It's Mark. "Hi Jenna, sorry I didn't make it over here yesterday. I had some stuff come up." he's smiling and looking like he wants to ask a question. "That's o.k, Was there something in particular you were looking for?" "Uhmm... yeah, I need a music book." "Alright, what's the name?" I ask walking to the computer. "It's "The Guitar Chord Bible"." "O.k" I begin to type in the search bar. " Are you learning a new song for for Thursday nights?" "No I'm actually teaching some music lessons." "Oh, cool" "Here it is, I actually have this in the shop,let me grab it for you." He follows me back to the rows of shelves. As I scan the titles he stands a little closer.Then seriously he says "Actually,Jenna, I've been talking to Pastor Daily and there's something else I'd like to ask you about."

The Latter Part

I wake up on the couch. Bronx is beside me sprawled out taking up much of the space. Some weird British show I've never seen before is on t.v. I look around to find what time it is. Two o'clock,I fell asleep before I got to see dear Edward propose(my favorite part). I cant believe it! No wonder I've never seen this show. Who is watching t.v this late anyway! Oh well, I'm too tired to climb the stairs so I grab a blanket and use my dog as a pillow. "Goodnight" I tell him. He blinks in his sleep. I'm dreaming. Edward Ferris is walking towards me with a plate of lasagna. "I'll be back later." He says. Then he runs off. Odd.I'm now in a car I slam the brakes. Somebody has been hit, not by me though, somehow I know that. Mary Ann is standing beside the road crying . I cant see anything. Mark is one of the EMS guys. He puts his arm around my shoulder and says in a British accent. "Sorry I couldn't make it." I wake up with my heart racing. What on earth was that all about. Dreams are so vivid when you first wake up and I feel like I'm still in it. How weird. Obviously falling asleep while watching t.v has a strange affect on one's dreams.It's six o'clock in the morning so I get up and take a shower to clear my head. I remember as I throw a load of laundry in the wash that Mark never came to the shop yesterday like he said he would. That must be why I was thinking about him in my sleep. Later on... Nine thirty, Tuesday morning and a beautiful day again. " Thank you Lord." I say looking out my store window. I see Cassie walking down the sidewalk with a guitar over her shoulder. I didn't know she played guitar, I think to myself. She looks over at me and I wave. She waves back. I wonder at why she didn't tell me she played guitar. No matter. I remark at how pretty Cassie is . She has long blond hair big green eyes and the lightest spray of freckles. I turn around to get started with my work. It's funny how often I wave. Everyone here waves at everyone else. The mailman, the construction worker, the sheriff, the complete stranger , it doesn't matter in Canter Falls we wave to everyone and say howdy do.

The Part Post the Last Part

It's about eight thirty and I'm snuggled on the couch with the Bronx. I have a cup of tea and my water colors out. I intend to paint "Barton Cottage" because I've just tuned in to the latest PBS Jane Austen movie. This is the second half of Sense and Sensibility and even though I've read the book three times I am still in suspense. Will Mary Ann ever really be happy?! Will dear Edward call off his secret engagement to the annoying Lucy Steel?! The theme music begins to play, I always get goose bumps, and then my phone rings. No not now!! I see it's my Dad calling again, oops, I forgot to listen to his message. Blast I'm going to miss part of the show. "Oh well." I pick up,"Hello." "Hey honey,how are you?" His booming voice makes me smile. "I'm fine Daddy, how are you?" "I'm doing well, Rhonda is keeping me busy."I'm glad he cant see me roll my eyes," How is Rhonda?" I ask about my Dad's girlfriend." She's great, she's always great. Working real hard volunteering at the hospital you know." I know, it seems like all Dad does these days is whatever Rhonda wants. "Is she working at a desk or...?" I wonder. "No, she's raisng awareness and funds for the new wing they plan to add on in the next two years or so." " Oh , I see, well that's nice." Rhonda has been my Dad's girlfriend for the past two years and before her it was Debbie. Rhonda is a wealthy, very socially active, community oriented woman. She is attractive and flattering and she has my Dad wrapped around her little finger. It bugs me. I hate to admit it but I guess I'm a little jealous. After my Mom passed away four years ago I thought my Dad would get involved in community stuff. Which he has ,just not in the way I would have thought. I guess it's kind of natural for me to feel this way but I don't like it. " So, how's business?" he asks, very interested having been quite the business man before he retired. " Oh, it's going good , I have a pretty steady clientel and you know I love what I do." " Well that's terrific sweet heart." I always miss him when he calls me that! I look up at the t.v and see that Willabee has totally dissed Mary Ann. My blood boils,"that scoundrel." I say out loud not meaning to." what?" my Dad asks. " Oh nothing, sorry. Are you going to come see me soon?" I ask but know the answer already. "Well, you know I'de love to, but I'm helping Rhonda all this month with these fundraisers."his voice quiets. " oh, ok I understand." I say, hurt again but not showing it. anytime I ask him too come visit its always the same, I'de love to but ___________with Rhonda. It's always because of her. "Hey, but we'll see you for Thanksgiving right?" he tries to change the subject. "Yeah, that'll be great Dad." I'm trying to sound excited. "Rhonda went ahead and made our reservation for "PaigeHouse", you know that beautiful resteraunt on 12th Street?" " Yes, I know what you're talking about." Now I'm really upset. Mom used to always make a home cooked Thanksgiving meal, turkey and all the trimmings, now we'll probably be eating salmon and steak. This is terrible. I miss Mom. I resent Rhonda. "Well, I better let you go,I'll talk to you later sweetie." " "Bye Daddy, love you." "Love you to." Click. My Dad and Rhonda live together which I dont agree with. It makes for lots of really akward situations. It's gotten to the point where I really dont even like to visit them. Sometimes I leave early because it hurts me to see many of my mother's things replaced with Rhonda's. My Dad and I have alot in common but we also disagree about alot. Particularly our faith. It makes things really difficult. I try not to think about it too much but find myself cying right along with Mary Ann on the t.v screen. Bronx puts is head in my lap. Man's best friend.

The Following Part

Suddenly my phone rings, it's my Dad. I cant talk so I let him leave me a message.In a few minutes Marie is back with two plates of steaming lasagna. "Oh my gosh that's gorgeous!" I say licking my lips. I love beautiful food, especially when I know it's going to be delicious. I thank God for the meal and we easily fall into conversation about Marie's family. In between bites she tells me, " Little Nicholas, he is not behaving in school. He gets into trouble and I get notes. Worse than the notes though is the looks from the other parents." I sip my water and think about what she must be going through as a single mother of three children. Raising kids isn't easy even with two parents, so I "figure", having no kids of my own. I wish that I knew what to say. Luckily I don't have to say anything, she goes on. "Ever since my husband left I have not been as strict as I should be I guess, but then its so hard you know, because I don't want to be the bad guy. I don't want them to hate me." I'm surprised."How could they hate you Marie, you're their Mom, you love them." She pauses for a minute thinking to herself. "I think they are angry at me because David left. I think they think it's my fault." The pain in her eyes is quite moving. I can tell that this has been building up for a while. "Oh,... they're too young to really understand then, When they're a little older maybe." Did that help , I don't know,I'm thinking to myself, this is tough. Looking over her soda she says, " Marcus is twelve, Sidney will be nine, and Nicholas is six, I guess I can understand the little ones not understanding, but Marcus, he should." " How are the others doing in school?" I ask hoping to start on a lighter note. "Sidney is doing wonderful, all her teachers love her because she is self motivated.Now Marcus,... not so much. He does the work and he is really smart, but he's lazy." We continue to talk for a while and I tell her about the Autumn Festival coming up at the Church. "If you have the time you should bring the kids , its going to be lots of fun." She smiles,"Well maybe, if I can get away from here."We take our plates back to the kitchen. Standing at the counter I pay for my food and give her a hefty tip. "I better run.See you later." I turn to leave. "Thanks a lot Jenna." she waves her tip."For everything."she smiles "No problem.Thank you." I say pushing the door open to leave.

The NEXT Part ;)

The girls gather themselves up after a few minutes and I'm left to myself. What a fabulous day this has been and it's barely noon... Which means time for a lunch break. I flip the open/closed sign to closed and grab my purse. I'm headed to "Nicks" for a bite to eat. No better pasta or salad can be found on the planet in my opinion.I love this place not only because it has fabulous food but because they have outdoor seating and they always play Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin.There is a wonderful breeze and as I walk across the street and down towards Kenton Street I can smell the garlic and onions. My mouth is watering. Frankie is coming in on the outdoor speakers singing "Come Back to Sorrento". I open the front door and wave to Nick who reminds me of Sylvester Stallone."Marie will be right out." he says even sounding like Stallone. I smile feeling like I'm in a "Rocky" movie. Marie, "Nick's" sister hands me a menu after I take a seat by the front window. I smile and say " Hi there Marie." She smiles, but not in her usual way,"Hi Jenna, what can I get you to drink?" I'm a little worried,"Coke with lemon please." "Is Pepsi o.k?" "Yeah." Why do I never remember that. I feel dumb. Something isn't right with Marie, so I ask her."How's your Mom doing?" She sighs,"She's o.k. Dad is still driving her to dialysis but his eyesight is getting so bad...soon Nick or I will have to take her." "I'm sorry to hear that, I'm still praying for her,for all of you. Its hard on everyone I know. When my Mom got sick it was really tough for all of us." Her brown eyes look out into the street. She is really exhausted." Thanks Jenna, I'll be right back with your drink." I wish I could really make a difference in people's lives, people are all around me and I see them struggle everyday. I think I have the gift of perception. It's like I am keenly tuned to the feelings and emotions of others. The wheels of my mind begins to spin thinking of how God might further use this gift. Maria is back with my drink. "Thanks, have you taken your break yet?"I ask her. She shakes her head no. "Why don't you have some lunch with me?" "Well, we're not very busy," she looks around, there are no other customers,"o.k, what would you like?" I hand her my menu and say "Whatever you get is fine with me." She is smiling a little more now. " Alright, Nick just finished a lasagna, it's my favorite, does that sound o.k?" asks Maria. "That sounds great." "I'll be right back." she says as she heads to the kitchen.

Part XIII

The girls all say yes so I excuse myself. I can hear some conversation resume as I leave. I return with a tray of tea and all the fixings. Pouring the tea I say," So I was hearing you tell me that you tried to share your feelings with Brice but he didn't understand." Toni nods," Yeah , he didn't get it at all. Now he's hardly talking to me, I don't even know if we're still "together", as lame as that sounds. I really do love Brice. I don't know what to do." I set my cup down. "Wow, I can see why you're feeling confused. That's a really tough situation." Praying again for wisdom I ponder how to respond to her story. Her eyes are full of questions and concerns and I truly feel for her. "Have you assured Brice that you do love him?" I ask finally. She shakes her head,"I tried, but I don't know if he even heard me." Toni sighs.I wonder and ask " What do you think bothered him the most?" She looks out the window for a minute,"I think it was the fact that I was questioning how we had been living. I think he translated it as me not wanting to continue our relationship." Toni looks back at me again and at her friends. Its obvious too me that this is a smart girl. She isn't dizzy or flighty like a lot of the college girls. I realize that this is probably because the Lord has come into her life in a powerful way. "I don't think he loves me anymore." Toni begins again with a tear in her eye."You don't think he loves you any more." I restate to be sure she really believes this. " No , I mean he doesn't even talk to me." she sighs. " Well, the first thing I would do is pray about this. A very wise lady who had a great impact on my life used to always say ,"Pray, first of all". And don't drop communication. Maybe you should just tell him that you want to continue the relationship if you do. Do you?" I think I already know the answer, but I don't want to speak for her. She thinks for a second looking slightly ashamed,"Yeah, but I would want it to be different." "Well, just be honest with him and tell him that. Even if he doesn't like it at least you'll have done your best to help him understand. And, if he really loves you don't you think he'll respect your feelings?" Toni smiles a little and shrugs,"He should." I smile and say" I know this is really hard, believe me I do, but it might take him a little while to get used to the new Toni.Give him a little time." "Yeah, I guess your'e right. I've just never felt like this before. I have never had this inner turmoil and conflict before. You know, I mean, on one hand I want to just do whatever it takes to make Brice happy, but on the other hand I want to live like Jesus says in the Bible. I guess that makes me a lousy person." She looks around at us as if to receive our judgement.I look her right in the eyes. " Toni, that makes you flesh and blood, just like the rest of us here. That conflict you are feeling is a good thing. It means that the Holy Spirit is moving in your heart. Before you became a Christian would you have ever given your life style choices a second thought?" She looks relieved,"No, I wouldn't. I haven't really made a commitment yet, about being a Christian I mean... I don't know why, but I just haven't said it out loud." I can feel the very presence of God,surrounding the four of us. Cassie smiles at me." What's stopping you? Why not say it right here and now with your friends right beside you." By this time tears are running down Toni's face. I know right now that this has nothing to do with me or Cassie or Julia, but that God has moved her heart to himself. "Can we pray together?" She says glancing around at us. We all nod and say yes. Julia begins, Lord, we just thank you for Toni and we thank you for drawing her to yourself, we just ask that you draw her even closer, and give her wisdom in the difficult situation with Brice. I pray that you would draw him too Lord... Then Cassie begins, Father I thank you so much for my friend Toni and thank you that we have an even stronger bond now in You. Please help her and give her peace in Yourself. Finally, Toni in a quaking voice says, Lord, Thank you for dying in my place and even though I don't understand it all perfectly I know that you love me and that I want to do what You say. I know that I'm a sinner and I want you to save me. Thank You Jesus, Amen." We all look up smiling and teary. A group hug is in order.

Part XII

Julia again comes right to the point. "It's boy trouble." Cassidy breaks in,"Toni here has a boyfriend problem." The quiet girl Toni speaks up."O.k Cassie, I can take it from here." She looks at me earnestly. "It's my boyfriend, Brice.We've been dating for a year. Over the summer I started going to Bible study with Cassie. Brice didn't really mind at first but without realizing it I began to change. I didn't notice it but Brice did. I didn't realize it but my thinking was different. It was like I was seeing through new eyes." I am nodding and praying Jesus will help to say to this girl what He wants her to hear. " I started to see how shallow some of our thinking was. I mean we had been living for the moment. We weren't really thinking about the future or anything important.We were just thinking of our selves. Well, I started to get dissatisfied with this, so I began to share my feelings with Brice. Well he totally freaked out. He thought I was crazy and that I didn't love him anymore. Which was not true at all. I love him so much. I am closer to him than anyone else, so I thought I could share this stuff with him." I can tell she's getting emotional so I say, " Would you ladies like some tea?"

Part XI

I'm on my feet again and decide to put on some classical music. Good for the mind they say. Not long after ten o'clock some college girls that come to the Bible Study file into my shop. Im standing on a step ladder dusting. " Hi there guys." I say trying to make a graceful exit from the stool. The girls are regulars at the shop so they make themselves comfortable. After an assortment of muffled greetings I realize something is wrong. " Is everything o.k?" I say glancing from one girl to the next."Well,uh..." began the first, Cassidy. " We have a question." interjected Julia the second girl, rather known for coming right to the point. The last girl whom I didn't know as well as the others was checking her phone. Cassidy and Julia turned their attention toward her.She looked up rather surprised," Uhh, yeah they thought we should come talk to you because, I have a problem, well actually Cassidy has a problem too." She smirked leaning toward the others.By this time my curiosity is perked. "Well, whats going on?" I ask joining them in the sitting area.

SPECIAL SUNDAY EDITION

It is Sunday evening again. Sometimes I wish Sunday would linger on a little longer. It's so good to rest and reflect. Right now I am thinking of Ezekiel 36:24-29 Vs. 26 says, I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws. May God move our hearts and wash over us with His Spirit...

Part IX

It's not like people are breaking down my door to get in but I like to be punctual. I begin my Monday routine. I get my duster out and go over the whole place. I check my little plug ins to make sure they're good and smelly. I wipe off the coffee table with some spray cleaner. I do love that lemon fresh smell. I find some books under the table. Among them is a gift Mavice gave to me on my birthday. She gave me the brown leather Bible the second year we were friends. As I open the cover I finger the worn gold edged pages. On a blank page is her dear inscription. It's soft from being touched so much. It has some little water marks too from tears at a particularly difficult time in my life. There in the midst of them in her elegant penmanship are these precious words, No more wondering ,the answers are all here. In His Words we have truth, in His Life, hope,in His resurrection, joy. Here we see we have so little, but he has so much and all for us, to lavish upon us, in His mercy and grace. This is what He has given to you. There is nothing you cant face when you possess ALL THIS. Love, Mavice I don't cry much but I'm tempted to as I remember just how beautiful a person she was. She was my second mother. The bell on the door rings, "Jenna, yoohoo!?" How I hate that "word" yoohoo. I try to get up but Mrs. Crandly is too fast for me."What are you doing down there sweetie?" she asks,noticing my eyes are red. " Oh, I..." What was I doing?" Honey, is it a man?,tell me all about it!" Mrs. Crandly is at my side in a flash patting my shoulder. "No no , I'm fine I was just cleaning.(that's it)She doesn't look convinced so she smiles and says,"Right , well if you wanna talk I'm here." Trying not to laugh I say "Well thank you." She's a little cooky but you cant help but love her. " Did you need something?" I ask wondering why she's here so early. "Oh yeah." She laughs because obviously she had totally forgotten." How does my window look to you? Do you think it looks overcrowded?" " No , I think it looks great. I noticed it earlier." Shes gazing at me as if her whole day's mood is in the balance."Really, it looks beautiful." I reassure her. She is inspecting her window looking through mine. "Well good." She looks somewhat satisfied then laughs. " Well I'm gonna run along now, I'll be seein ya." She's frolicking out the door as she says "Dont let that man treat you bad, hear?." I just shake my head. Wow.

Part VIII

Suddenly a car horn shakes me back into the present. "Hi Jenna!" it's one of the college students. "Hi Mark" I wave."How are you this morning." I realize I can see my breath hanging in the air. " Fine, I was planning on stopping by later,maybe around two. Will you be out for lunch that late?" "Oh no, I usually get back by one." Why do I always give out extra information I never just say yes or no. " Alrighty then, see ya later." he flashes a smile and pulls back onto the street. I look at my watch,"Oopsie, time to get back Big Daddy." I say to Bronx. It's nearly nine, time to open shop!The Bronx does not approve of my quickened pace home. He drags his feet a little but we make it back in time to flip the CLOSED sign to OPEN by 9:01.

Part VII

" As you can see," she smiled." The previous owner ran a florist shop here." She motioned to the silk flower petals sprinkled here and there. I could still smell the plastic of artificial greenery. As she showed me around I began to envision book shelves all around and a few chairs and lamps. A coffee table here, a love seat there. I was getting creative. Mavice must have seen the wheels in my head turning. "Its got lots of promise."she said. I could see it all by this point. I was envisioning curtains in the front window already. Mavice led me to a long skinny staircase. " Let me show you the upstairs." Creeeaaak... the steps were noisy then too. Mavice was a little startled. "That first step's a doosie."she laughed.I appreciated just how down to earth Mavice was. She didn't force the place on me or list all of its attributes she just showed me. I was to find that this was always Mavice's way. The apartment upstairs was adorable. I felt at home straight away.The abundance of wooden paneling and floors thrilled me.I'm an old fashioned and girl and as such I was tickled pink with the low set windows,and the sweet kitchen with its tile floor and white cupboards. I waved my arm and stated"The bedroom and bathroom are bigger then I would have guessed." Mavice nodding in agreement said"They don't build like this anymore." " How old is this building exactly?" I inquired with much curiosity. "This is part of the very first set of buildings on Main Street. It was built seventy-four years ago in nineteen twenty-eight." "Wow, how cool is that." Now I was feeling like I had the opportunity to buy a piece of history. She continued." This shop opened on March sixteenth, nineteen twenty-eight as a drug store." "That's amazing." I was stunned and my good fortune. This was my dream shop. "Canter Falls was one of the first towns built out this way because of the train depot."Mavice smiled " So its a train town."I said. "Yeah, trains are a big deal around here. We have "Train Day", "The Christmas Carol Train Tour",and "Railroad History Month". My husband has a whole room dedicated to a replica of the Canter Falls Station and Main Street. He's the president of the Historical Group in our little town."She looked so happy. "How neat." I was falling hard and fast for this town and Id'e only been there for three hours. "Do you have any questions?" she asked me at the end of the tour. I wanted to sound grown up so I asked about the heat and the A.C. "The heating works great but the air conditioning needs some work. My husband can look at it if you like. Bernard is real handy around the house." I was not in the big city any more and boy was I glad. "O.k , I'm staying at the Bed and breakfast, What's it called?" I had forgotten. " The Tea Rose Inn?" " Yes, that's it.(trying to sound grown up again...) I'll think about it over the weekend. I thought I'de get to know the town a little and decide by Monday. Is that o.k?" I asked. " Thats fine sweetie and when you go to Miss Sadie's make sure you get some of her Hucklberry Scones, mmmhmmm... are those things good." I laughed "O.k I will" We were walking out the door. "Thanks again Mrs. Bernard." I called as I walked down the street. " Just call me Mavice, she waved. Who was I fooling my mind was made up. But... for appearance sake I would take my time. I had to call Mom and Dad in the mean time and tell them the good news. Somehow as I walked down to the Inn I felt like I had been here my whole life. I felt like my life was really just about to begin.

Part VI

We walk on to the end of Main Street past the Library and the Post Office where Mr.Barton is putting up the American flag. Around the corner we walk further onto Maple Street where the park is. This time of year its stunning. The Maples for which it is named "Maple Park" are all flaming orange. I think about how many times I've come here. I used to come every afternoon on my lunch break. I came to talk with my best friend and mentor Mavice. She was one of the first people I met when I came here. She was the Real Estate agent selling my building. She was wonderful and told me all about the town and set up an appointment with me so I could see the only available building on Main Street. " What luck." I had thought to myself(but it was more than that).When I finally met Mrs. Mavice Bernard I was struck by her soft white hair and big blue eyes.She reminded me of one of those t.v cooks who always has a plate of southern comfort. We shook hands and introduced ourselves again. "Canter Falls is the sweetest place on earth." She said as she unlocked the shop door. "I have a feeling you are going to love this." I was a little skeptical because the windows were covered in brown paper. I couldn't see inside at all. I remember exactly how the door sounded as it creaked open. I felt like Lucy in The Chronicles of Narnia as Mavice motioned for me to go ahead in.

Part V

Unfortunately and unbeknownst to me big dogs have big price tags. Therefore I went without a few luxuries and extras. I saved and planned . It was almost like bringing home a baby. I had his food all ready and his bed was beside mine with some toys and a doggy blanket. The leash and collar were on the seat beside me as I drove out to "Meadowlark Farm"   in my Geo Metro. I couldn't wait to pick up my handsome new boyfriend.
When I got there my "little puppy" was already quite a size.  I didn't want to seem stupid, so I hid my surprise.
However when the "daddy" dog came charging into the room there was no hiding my feelings. For some reason I felt like I was in the Sahara facing a mane less lion.Two things at this point came to mind ,one I think we need a bigger doggy bed, and two, maybe I should look into getting a truck in the near future. The breeders boasted that the Bronx's father was tight lipped(not so drooley), that he had produced two champions and was  fed raw meat once a week. When the six foot tall owner coaxed the dog to stand on his hind legs he reached the man's shoulders. " Wow, that's quite a dog." I smiled, thinking to myself, if he had antlers he'd be a moose! I wasn't afraid of him though, he was very gentle. By this point Bronx had already claimed me. He came waddling over and tried to fit himself onto my lap. I knew what my family would think...that I had gone nuts! I came from a long line of Daschound lovers." How did this happen?" they would ask. The thought of their response  cracked me up which only confirmed that  this was the perfect dog choice for me.On the way home Bronx sat in the passenger seat with the seat belt on. I think he was smiling.

Part IV

     I'm beginning to get excited about wearing  a scarf so I change out of my p.j's. Coming down the stairs that connect my apartment and my shop is one long creeeaaakcraaaack. I could never sneak up on anybody that's for sure. The Bronx is right behind me and I hope he doesn't miss a step.Once he slipped and we landed in a heap twelve steps later.I grab his leash from a hook on the wall and we're off. A dozen tiny birds fly out of the bushes by my front door. Their little wings pound against the air making a fluttering sound. I always feel sorry to disturb them. Bronx is using his over sized nose to sniff out the cafe.As we pass by the window I wave to Mrs. Daily. She is in the back rolling out pastry dough. She waves back with a floured hand.
      Living on Main Street with Bronx causes a small problem since he is such a big dog. He is so large that he can barely turn around in the tiny courtyard behind the shop. It doesn't matter though he and I enjoy these morning walks. Its good exercise too.
     Several years ago I felt a little lonely living in the shop all by myself so I decided to get a dog. I thought a dog would be good company and a bigger dog would make me feel safe. So I figured on a lab or a largish beagle. However when I saw an advertisement for Mastiff puppies on The Daily Grind bulletin board I was sold.With that face, that dark muzzle and those big brown eyes I knew he was the man for me. So I tore off the phone number and called that very day.

Part III

 Working at my little bookstore is almost too fun to be my job. Lots of college kids come in to get books for school. We get into conversations about life, faith,family and their dreams. I try to be Jesus to them and build  relationships. Some of them come here to study which brings a great opportunity to serve others which is exactly what I want, although it hasn't always been. I think for the most part the kids like me. Some of them think I'm a little radical, but they respect me because I tell them the truth. I tell them exactly how I feel.
 Speaking of feelings there's something wet on my hand . I'm snapped out of my thoughts to find my dog, Bronx, with his nose in my hand.  "Good morning Buddy." I say to my moose of a dog. He puts his head on my lap, what a mush. One hundred and sixty five pounds of mush to be exact. Bronx is a mastiff which pretty much means he's hard to hide and easy to find, the best kind of dog, right. He lifts his doggy eyebrows and looks up at me. Sometimes I really think he wants to say something but he doesn't because he knows it would freak me out. I scrub his ears. If he could speak he would probably say, " Can we go now?" Bronx loves to go ,not fast though, just slow and steady. He's certainly not a jogging buddy. I could sit here all day like this, but I have a job to do and people and my doggy friend counting on me.

Part II

 I thought of that name about this time ten years ago when I  bought this building. I'll never forget when  I first saw Canter Falls  . I googled Main Streets of America and it was love at first sight. As a college student I liked a lot of things. I still do. I love the outdoors, cooking, gardening,history and art, and of course I love to read. I majored in English Literature and graduated with a dream of having a place where people could come and read about all the things they love. My Dad, being a successful entrepreneur, was happy to help me start my own business. So here I am Jenna Davis. I am single and the owner of a small bookstore.I'm living above the shop as they say, and on the cutest little Main Street in America.As I finish off my tea I notice Mrs. Crandly across the street. She's setting her front window for fall.  Pumpkins ,leaves, a scarecrow and of course "Hammy"the cat, have been nicely arranged behind the glass. Accept for Hammy, he arranges himself however he pleases.Sometimes much to the pleasure of tourists. He mostly prefers to be right in the middle of everything and upside down. He decided to be Mrs. Crandly's shop mascot and pet after she began feeding the stray every morning. Mrs. Crandly makes a somewhat comical picture in front of her store. She's examining her window and I see that she is wearing overalls, cowgirl boots and Laura Ingalls braids. I laugh. Cracking open my window I can smell coffee wafting up from "The Daily Grind". The shop is an adorable cafe/bakery with free wi-fi and the best cup of joe around. Pastor and Mrs Daily :) run the shop partly as a ministry to the college kids and the community here in Canter Falls. Every morning from six to seven you can hear the grinders going.I can hear Pastor Daily is  playing some solo piano c.d while they prepare to open. Mr. and Mrs. Daily have been a real blessing to me.They have taken me under their wing I guess you could say.   When I first moved here they and their then teenage kids helped me unpack my moving van. I  go to their church and love the fellowship there. The people really care about each other and no one rushes to get home after the service. Its really unique. On Thursday nights they host a DVD Bible study at the shop . I enjoy the class very much. I'm so thankful that God led me here ,things might have been very different for me if He hadn't. I am thrilled to be in this community and take  part in what God is doing here. I lean back in my swivel chair, ahh... yes I love this place.

Part I

                                             
I sip my tea looking over the brim of my cup. I read recently that this was a Victorian tea party no no, ever since then I have felt a delicious liberation in doing so. How many strange little rules for society back then. Thing change unfortunately in today's society pretty much everything goes. Things haven't changed that much in Canter Falls however.
            I reach forward and pull up the blinds on my window. What a beautiful view! The other half of Main Street and then beyond that the Blue Ridge Mountains. I'm so glad that this is my home. The fall foliage is peaking. "Incredible" is the only word to describe it. There's no place on earth I'd rather be. Its October and the most beautiful day I've seen all year. The thermometer says its a crisp fifty-nine degrees. Sweater weather...my favorite. I smile and wave at Mr. Bernard who is walking his dog.  He walks "Old Mac" his black Scottie dog every morning of life at exactly seven thirty. The only morning he skipped was when his wife passed away six years back. Aside from being a very punctual elderly gentleman he loves my shop. My bookstore, "The Golden Leaves".

I think I'll let you all in on a little story I've been working on. Its about a woman who owns a bookstore on Main Street in Canter Falls. No laughing or making fun now! I shall be a sort of Dickens making weekly installments until I get tired of it!ha! I write this stuff for fun , I like creating a whole different world, its challenging and exciting. Let me know what you think of this idea.
P.S I might chicken out...

Last night we had the couples from church over for a Valentine's Dinner/date thing. It was really nice. It was great to just be able to sit back and have conversation with friends like you would if you went to restaurant. The yummy dinner and delectable chocolaty deserts made it really nice too. After dinner the menfolk were forced to endure the movie Persuasion.  I was however very impressed with Dr. Don's notes and commentary, well done Dr. Don. seriously. Next week we'll do Sense and Sensibility. Thanks to everyone who came and made the night so much fun.

Thoughts

I really love this picture because it brings many passages/themes from scripture to mind. Some scriptures that comes to my mind are John 10:7,9,10,27and 28. In last Wednesday night's class and in Family devotions last night we talked about these remarkable passages. Vs.7 says"I am the door of the sheep"(NKJV) The only way to get in the fold(blessed eternal life) is through Jesus Christ. HE keeps what is His in and the wolves out. He cares so much about His Sheep that he laid down His life for them. In Bible times the shepherd would actually sleep in the opening of the sheep fold . He literally was the door. That is what Jesus is referring to. Vs. 9 " I am the door if anyone enters by Me he will be saved and will go in and out and find safe pasture." I know what its like to be a helpless little sheep as a person. People are frail, they have spirits that can be broken and bodies that can fail them, wouldn't it be wonderful to have a good shepherd to take care of your soul? We may wonder ,why would Jesus care to be my shepherd? Vs. 10... I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it abundantly. I am the good Shepherd, the good shepherd gives His life for his sheep." He gave His life so that He could be the Good Shepherd. Not only did He give it so we could be rescued from a wolf or pulled out of the brier patch, but so we could be the happiest bunch of sheep you have ever seen! I think this next verse sums it up; Vs.27 My sheep hear my voice,and I know them and they follow me." Will we follow Christ? is the question. To be a happy sheep you must listen to the shepherd otherwise you wind up a wolf's dinner ,stuck in the brambles or jumping off a cliff. So do we want to be safe under the Shepherd's hand? Vs.28 "AND  I GIVE THEM ETERNAL LIFE AND THEY SHALL NEVER PERISH: NEITHER SHALL ANYONE SNATCH THEM OUT OF MY HAND."

 I love doing old fashioned pictures. This is something else I would love to do and make a little money. I could bring my own costumes and props and take pictures of people's kids like the ones you pay a lot of money for while you're on Vacation!

Last night we watched a dvd of just old commercials. It was SO funny to see the way things have changed and the way things haven't. They're still trying to convince us we need something... Anyway they reminded me of these pictures.

More Creations

 This is what kept me busy
on this wet and yucky day...
*This is actually a necklace
I know I'm crazy!

 The "Scrappie" Tea Cozy
I made this yesterday...

 The little elephant bracelet...

 The little elephant earrings...

 The tea rose earrings...

This morning was a little hectic. It was the type of morning that when you finally have time to get in the shower you praise the Lord. Sometimes when the situations happen and I find myself not  as I like to be:) I feel unequipped to do what I do. Life throws all kinds of circumstances at us. Sometimes things don't go according to plan, people don't treat you nicely, sometimes the dog gets in the trash, and sometimes the laundry gets behind .But...what I found so refreshing this morning, after the storm had died down, was             

2Peter 1:3

His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness. 

I love this verse. The power of God has been bestowed upon you and I so that we can face life, and face it with godliness. Do I always remember this? no way. Do I want to ? ABSOLUTELY. I want to remember that the power of God is at my disposal , all I have to do is ask. 

*This picture is also one I took of a sunrise in Canada, boy isn't that God's Country(Why do we say that its all God's haha)

My favorite part of the morning , the coffee is made its quiet. There is no one awake but me...and then my adorable six year old house guest joins me.James is apparently an early riser. When asked what he he is doing up he just shrugs his shoulder as if to say" I thought you might be lonely." then comes over and put his head on my lap. I think of it like this one day he wont want to hold my hand or sit on my lap or play "uno". Everyday is precious and when its gone its gone. So long solitude hello cuddle time.

I took this picture one morning while I was in Canada.

CREATIONS

Feather My Nest Presents                                

the ScrappieI just made this bag this morning for a friend. These are the same type of bags my mom and sister make too. They were a great  seller at the State Fair last summer.

                                          The Infamous Football Cake Maggie and I made

The day after Super Bowl , its incredible how into this one football game America is. Even people like myself who never see a game all year  still want to watch the Superbowl.(I think the food is a draw haha)
Its amazing though because the whole year the players are thinking about winning games. Im sure in the back of their minds they are thinking about winning the Superbowl the biggest game of all. They practice hard, they eat a certain way, they exercise, they go through all this stuff for a game. Just a game.The coach makes a game plan, he watches his players, and tells them what to do and... amazingly enough they listen. As my Dad said last night after we turned off the half time show, real life should be this way. But , its definitely not. Think about the church, we are the players each one of us has a different role to play. If one of us decides we dont want to play our part the game would suffer right? and so does the church. What are we trying to win though? A trophy? the applause of millions of people? Our goal is to glorify Christ and make disciples of all nations. But sometimes we forget the game plan we dont listen to the coach and we lose the game. Do we take our goal as seriously as they take theirs. How much more important is the goal we have? And how much better the reward?

Good Morning , Im off to Emmanuel Baptist Church for training for volunteering at the PRC.

Creations

Here is one of my latest creations the idea came from a  similar wall hanging I saw at a friend's house.

This is something I could make for someone. This consists of a curtain rod some nifty little curtain hook/loops with clamps and some wooden squares Daddy cut out for me.  I painted them to look like stone. This could be personalized to say a family name or another word like "grace", "faith", or "home". It could also be made smaller. This one is about three feet long and the letter boards are about eight or nine inches long I'de say.

Welcome to my blog.I created this blog so that I could share thoughts with ya'll and so I could advertise some of the craft things I make. The blog is called Feather My Nest because it has the idea of blessing homes. I really hope you like it ! 

Annie