Update:
Just a little announcement here to share that the winner for the Grand prize is Chris Bures and for Sarah’s ornament and the signed copy of This Quiet Sky, the winner is Kathleen Belognia. Congratulations ladies! And a special thank you to all who entered. You were each a blessing!
The Christmas Chronicles is a blog hop between 5 historical romance authors. Our desire is to bring you joy through these letters, grounded in the true spirit of the season, and written from the fictional viewpoints of each book’s heroine. We’re so glad to have you join the event. Each day this week, a new Christmas Chronicles post will go live, complete with a letter and a new ornament giveaway for that blog post.
To read more about the project and enter to win the fresh evergreen wreath which represents the gift of eternal life, click here.
To find your way to the other four blog posts and enter each of the five Christmas Chronicles individual giveaways, read on! We have a list for you at the bottom of this post.
A Christmas letter from Sarah Miller
Rocky Knob, VA 1893
Dear Tucker,
I hope your travels have been safe and I think of you every minute of every day. I want to ask you if you’re feeling alright but I know you always rather me not, so I’ll just whisper it quietly and pretend like your answer is yes.
I’ve been writing you the last few days. I don’t want anyone to find the letters, so I tuck them in a box of Christmas ribbons and scraps of plaid that I stashed under my bed, all the way in the back. Someone’s going to find it come Christmas time, so I’ll have to hunt out a better hiding spot before then. Maybe I should just start a journal.
Sometimes I don’t think my life is interesting enough for a journal, but I suppose that’s the point. To remember the little things. Well, here goes…
I fed the chickens today and helped Ma make braided sweet bread. Then I toted it up to the Nettle’s house as their ma wasn’t feeling well. While out, I walked by your house. I know you’re not home, but I did it anyway. I crossed the footbridge where we sat… then went through the sunny glen where you kissed me (that stretch of path always makes me blush so it was a good thing I was alone.) (Of course I’m not going to tell you this.)
(I may cross all that out because now I’m embarrassed.)
When I reached your house, I just stood there in the middle of the lane, watching the smoke rise from your chimney and knew your mother was home, no doubt praying for your safety on the trip. You’re to be gone a week. Just a week… but it feels so much longer.
I miss you terribly. Which has me sitting here, writing you a letter I know I’ll never mail. I’ll certainly never show it to you.
It really is silly. You’re just in Danville taking the college entrance exams. I know you’re safe and that Benjamin is there with you and that you’re going to do amazingly well on the test. You’re the smartest person I’ve ever met. Oh, I meant to ask this before you left — you don’t have to conjugate verbs in Latin and Greek aloud, do you? I hope not. None of the girls in the exam room would get anything accomplished if that were the case. And then they’d be walking out on wobbly knees.
Not that I know from experience…of course.
But I suppose you know that’s not true so I can confess that I smile when I think of it and it helps with missing you. Also…I know you’ll be back. But I can’t help fearing that there will be a time when you won’t be able to come back to me. I’ll bid you farewell and it will be for a long time.
And here I am, starting to cry.
I saw Violet when I went by your house today. She walked out to me and we perched on the edge of the split rail fence. She talked… I listened. She just ran her hand over her mounded belly, swirling the calico fabric over her and Benjamin’s baby. She told me all about how you and your brother had driven off the day before. She said your smile was as big as a watermelon slice and that Benjamin was ready for you to talk his ear off the whole way. College. You always did dream big, didn’t you Tucker? I’m glad. I’m so glad that you shoot for the moon because it makes me want to do the same.
Which is why I get down on my knees every night and pray that God will make you well. That somehow, some way, all that the doctors have told you would just stop being true and that you’ll be forever mine. I don’t let myself think about what will happen if God doesn’t make that wish come true. I’ll try not to be angry with Him, but I don’t know…
Maybe I just won’t think about it and instead make my prayers bigger.
But sometimes I think I should make my prayers smaller. One more breath. One more kiss. One more smile. Then maybe all those small prayers will add up to enough. But I don’t even know what enough is. Do you think that God knows? Do you think He really knows what’s best? I try to believe so. I have to.
Oh, dear. Ma’s calling me. I better go. I need to get this and the box of ribbons hidden away, but I promise to write more tomorrow. I’ll add to it until you get back. Come home safe, Tucker.
Sincerely,
Yours,
Sarah
P.S. There’s a Christmasy scrap here that I’m going to tie your present with. I won’t tell you what it is, though. I don’t want to ruin the surprise.
P.S.S. I guess I can tell you since I decided I’ll never let you see this. I found a book in the Montgomery Ward catalog… it’s on the stars. I think you’ll like it.
There is nothing extraordinary about Tucker O’Shay’s dreams.
Go to college. Become president. Fall in love.
And pretend like he has enough time to get it all done.
Sixteen-year-old Sarah Miller doesn’t expect anything out of the ordinary when she begins her first day at the one-room-school house in her new hometown of Rocky Knob. But when she meets seventeen-year-old Tucker O’Shay—the boy with the fatal illness who volunteers to tutor her in algebra—she finds herself swept up in a friendship that changes the way she sees the world and a love that changes her life.
– Giveaway –
To enter to win a signed copy of This Quiet Sky, the handwritten letter, and a chalkboard Christmas ornament inspired by the story, simply leave a comment! You can leave any comment, but if you feel like sharing, what is a special Christmas memory that you cherish?
P.S. you can earn extra entries by sharing about the Christmas Chronicles on any social media site. Simply share what you did in the comments below and I’ll tally your entries!
Also, if you have not yet entered for the grand prize of the fresh evergreen wreath, you can do that here.
We invite you to join us each weekday this week as we hop through cyberspace and history, gleaning the love and joy of the Christmas season from each heroine’s journey.
Monday, Dec. 1st: Regina Jennings (Heroine: Abigail Calhoun, A Most Inconvenient Marriage)
Tuesday, Dec. 2nd: Joanne Bischof (Heroine: Sarah Miller, This Quiet Sky)
Wednesday, Dec. 3rd: Amanda Dykes (Heroine: Aria St. John, Bespoke)
Thursday, Dec. 4th: Karen Barnett (Heroine: Abby Fischer, Out of the Ruins)
Friday, Dec. 5th: Sarah Sundin (Heroine: Grace Kessler, Where Treetops Glisten)
In honor of the Chronicles blog hop…This Quiet Sky is on a Christmasy special
I honestly can’t think of a Christmas memory I cherish. for a very long time the holidays have been uber difficult for me. I am hoping this year will have memories to cherish. I made a special gift for my mom and step dad and hope it will be well received. 🙂
I’m hoping you have a beautiful Christmas season! And as things can get strenuous sometimes around the holidays, I pray you feel the warm embrace of our loving Savior who cherishes you dearly!
I shared this post on Twitter 🙂
Thanks! I’ll mark you for an extra entry 🙂
I like this story.
Thanks Kelly 🙂
What a beautiful letter! I love hearing all the simple details of Sarah’s life. The way you share them makes me cherish the routine aspects of my life that I tend to take for granted.
I’ve downloaded “The Quiet Sky” and can’t wait to read it! Thanks for this wonderful post and thanks for doing The Christmas Chronicles. I’m having so much fun with this.
Thank you, Regina! I hadn’t thought of it like that, so I’m glad it encouraged you in that way!
You are so sweet to have done that. I hope the story treats you well and what a privileged it’s been to do the Chronicles with you and the Sisterhood of the Traveling Journal over the years! Hugs!
Thanks, so much Joanne. I also shared on my Christian Romance Review Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ChristianRomanceReview
What a great letter, I look forward to reading the book.
A Christmas memory that I cherish? Wow, I can’t actually think of one, I have so many wonderful memories of Christmas, I am just so thankful for my family and their health.
Thank you so much, Marilyn!
I’m so glad you can’t pick just one. That’s a good sign of many happy Christmases! I hope this one is just as bright and what a beautiful thing to be thankful for.
The Christmas memory I cherish most was the year I got a bicycle. It was such a surprise, it rekindled my joy in Christmas magic.
What a sweet memory, Cindy! I love hearing how it rekindled that joy. Thank you for sharing. 🙂
Some of my favorite Christmas memories revolve around spending time with my family. My extended family gets together Christmas afternoon and we talk, and laugh and eat. It is always a wonderful time.
Jessica,
That sounds delightful and magical. That’s what makes this time of year so special. I hope you have a wonderful Christmas with your family!
A special Christmas memory that I cherish is the year that my brother and I fell asleep on Christmas Eve watching the original Star Wars movies. I think we ended up finishing Return of the Jedi on Christmas morning. I think that we both ended up sleeping on the floor in the living room.
Oh what a fun memory, Dawn! Star Wars + Christmas … now that’s LOTS of fun!! 🙂
Honestly, I cherish the memories of every Christmas I can remember. All the Christmases while I growing up and every one since I have been married and raising my children. Each holds a special memory for me.
Kandi,
How lovely. I am so glad to hear how each Christmas comes together to form that special joy in your heart this time of year.
Oh, Joanne! I get a lump in my throat just reading this! Big prayers, little prayers… Where are my tissues? And the conjugating in Latin scene was one of my favorites in This Quiet Sky. A favorite Christmas memory for me might be the time I came down to find a huge doll house under the tree. I felt sick because my best friend had been asking for one for years, and I knew she’d be mad I received one without even asking. My Mom was quick to console me–my best friend’s mom had handmade two dollhouses, one for each of us. Then joy rushed in, sweeping away all my anxious thoughts. It was magical.
Oh my goodness, Karen, what a dear friend you are! Hearing this story of your little heart… thinking of your friend. This is so precious! <3
And thank you 🙂 That Latin scene was one of my favorites to write so it was fun to receive some commentary on it, haha. It seems to be the most popular moment, LOL. It's funny, but after writing TQS, I realized that Tucker does a lot of sitting down. I tried to give him something to do each time, so I guess that was one of them. 😉
I’ve always had a thing for brainy guys! So when she got all flustered with his Latin, I swooned, too. Hollywood can keep their muscle-bound action heroes, I’ll choose the intelligent hero every single time.
Oh I love it!! And amen! 😉
this was such a wonderful story and just love the touching letter. We were poor growing up but my mom And dad always made sure Christmas was special!!
Thank you so much,Joann. I’m so blessed to know that you enjoyed the story… and the letter! Your Christmas memory sounds like the most special and rewarding kind, indeed. 🙂
I can’t think of a favorite Christmas, but I cherish the silly tradition we had with our kids of getting them Christmas pajamas and giving them to them on Christmas eve.
I adore reading these letters, you all have put so much thought into them!
Thank you so much Connie! I (and I know the other ladies) appreciate your kind words!
And your pajama memory sounds like a special and fun one. 🙂 Happy Christmas to you and your family!
I will share on FB
Thanks! I’ll jot you down for that extra entry!
Two wonderful memories stand out to me ~ the Christmas I was eleven and my stepsister and her family had driven amid weather to late at night to arrive at our farm home. Early Christmas morning I rushed upstairs to awaken her to show her my first golden rooted-hair doll and short-sleeved turquoise sweater with little pearlized buttons… that Santa had brought me. (Likely came through the night with them on their twelve-hour drive!)
My young daughter and I were sitting quietly on Christmas morning looking at the lights twinkling on our tree when there came a knock at the door. Our postman bringing us a package from our parents ~ early Christmas morning ~ warm mittens, tootsie-roll pops, Juicy Fruit gum, coloring books and crayons, and peanuts in the shell ~ from their local small-town grocer. Christmas to me!!
Kathleen ~ Lane Hill House
Shared link to day 2 on my Facebook news page
Kathleen ~ Lane Hill House
https://twitter.com/LaneHillHouse/status/539816480528171008 shared link on twitter for day 2!
Kathleen ~ Lane Hill House
Shared The Christmas Chronicles video on my Facebook news page of you and Amanda ~ and the sweet little hand poking up! 😀
Kathleen ~ Lane Hill House
And thanks for all those shares! I will count each one as an extra entry. And I’m glad you liked that video. That hand is my 8-year old… being… well an 8-year old boy 😉
Kathleen,
Your memories sound just delightful! And oh, that sweater sounds divine! Does it come in my size, too!?!? 🙂 And I love hearing about that package with all those delights inside. Sounds like many happy Christmases!
My favorite Christmas memories…how to come to THE one. Favorite things though were driving around to look at the lights and then having hot chocolate afterward, all cozy and back home. I also loved that we made a Birthday cake for Jesus on Christmas Eve. And one year our daughter wrote a song “Look what I found in my Stocking” and I can still sing it in my head to this day!
That is so beautiful and WELL said! I remember the lights and the hot chocolate… unless of course you are talking about a tie that I wasn’t there 😉
Haha! I DO recall that song! XO
I shared it on Pintrest. I have lots of special memories but one was when I was about 8 and really wanted a sleeping bag. I was a bed wetter and didn’t get to sleep over at anyone’s house yet but my sister did (she was 13). I thought it might inspire me to stop. : / Well, I wrote this really long list but in HUGE letters at the top wrote SLEEPING BAG-can be the only gift! We were a pastor’s family, Christmas Eve was a 5 o’clock, snack, 7 o’clock, dinner, 9 p.m. open family gifts, 10 p.m. communion service then 11 p.m. candle light service with a 10 am service Christmas day . . . busy, busy, busy . . . I didn’t know any different and was so social I loved it all. So, when my sister and I didn’t get our sleeping bags I was really upset but said it is ok, I know we didn’t have the money . . . heart broken though.Santa brought a gift for each of us but not the big ones. We woke up early and there was this really big box in the lr from my sister and I. I kept waiting, looking for the rolled bag so really thought well . . . we will accept what we get, be thankful bear it all . . such drama! Then my sis opens the box and there were our sleeping bags. . . such joy! Mine was yellow with pink polka dots and I used it for years . . . just loved it. Can’t wait to read the book. . . I want to know what happened to those two kids! Thanks!! Merry Christmas!
Thanks for that share, Chris! I’ll count you down for two entries 🙂
Ooh that does sound busy! And what a fun thing to wish for! And I love your “be thankful and bear it all mentality” and am clapping over your sleeping bag’s brilliant arrival. What a fun and sweet memory!
And I’m so glad you are looking forward to reading This Quiet Sky. Thank you!
I really like the story and hope God changes the Dr’s prediction. Am going to read your book.Kathie Bla left
Many thanks, Kathie <3 I do hope it might be an encouragement to you. Happy Christmas!!
Decorating the tree as a family every year is always a cherished memory and just being able to be together.
That’s one of mine too! I know just what you mean about how special it is. 🙂
That was one heartwarming letter! I’ve been putting off reading This Quiet Sky because I know I am probably going to cry a lot. I have tears in my eyes just from the big prayer/little prayer part! But now I know I have to suck it up and read it because if I loved that little letter so much I just know I’ll adore the book itself! 🙂
Oh, Hannah, your comment gave me such a smile… a bittersweet smile because I feel your heart so deeply! I’m so honored that this has been a story you’ve been wanting to read and completely understand that hesitation. When you do… I so hope it blesses you. Hugs in advance!
Hello Joanne, You are a new author to me. This Quite Sky sounds like a wonderful read. I’m sorry I don’t have a special Christmas memory to share. The holidays are a difficult time of year. It will be three years in January that I lost my Daddy. His birthday was December 26.
Shared The Christmas Chronicles on facebook:https://www.facebook.com/caryl.kane/posts/10152395860801637
Hugs to you, Carol, for the loss of your precious Daddy. My grandpa passed away around Christmas time and this will be a few years without him and as much as I miss him, I know his daughters, my mom and her four sisters, feel the loss of him immensely… as they also cling to those lovely memories. It’s the hurt, that shows how dear these men were, doesn’t it?
I hope you have a beautiful and blessed Christmas!
So sorry for the loss of your grandpa! I am grateful that my Daddy became a Christian and is now enjoying Heaven. May you have a blessed Christmas.
This sounds like a wonderful story. I am looking forward to reading it. A favorite memory from Christmas. That would be a hard question. Each Christmas is memorable for one reason or other. I Remember as a child my grandfather showing up at our house, it just weeks after my grandmother had passed, bearing gifts. I was a teenager and my gift from him was a baby doll. I truly loved it because it was from him and suddenly I realized he would always think of me as a little girl and that was precious to me.
Blessings
Greetings Katrina!
I’m so glad that this one sounds like something you would enjoy! Oh wow… what a precious memory of your grandfather and the doll. What a dear you are for seeing the value there. That is indeed precious!! Thank you for sharing!
My children and grandchildren are all grown up now so I have lots of wonderful Christmas memories. One that stands out is my four children were probably all younger than about 7 years old and we had stayed up late getting the presents ready so we were really sleeping soundly when I rolled over my hand must have dropped over the side of the bed only to discover a little head with very soft hair right beside me. Needless to say it startled me, they were supposed to b asleep it was only 3AM, but all four kids were there in anticipation. After I got over my fright they all had to go back to bed for a couple of hours anyway. Sometimes I long for those precious little heads to be by my bed again
Judy –
Oh what a fun and delightful memory! Kids are so darling at Christmas time! I love hearing about their anticipation… talk about a way to wake up. 😉
I hope you and your family have a beautiful Christmas!
Joanne, this letter is so beautiful. When I think of Sarah’s tender and brave heart, learning to trust and daring to pray– it fills my heart! Thank you for sharing this with us today. As for a cherished Christmas memory… when I was young, we would bake batches of sticky buns early Christmas morning and all hop into our van in our pajamas to go out and deliver them to friends before returning home to devour our own steaming-hot pan and opening our gifts. It’s such a treasured memory, and I’m so thankful my parents gave it to us.
Amanda,
How is my darling friend?? You are so sweet and I am so thankful to you for all that you’ve done for me and this little tale.
And what a delightful memory! It sounds just like the Crandall family to be so giving and thoughtful toward others. Now that I’ve met your mom, I see where you get it from!
I can’t wait to read about Sarah and Tucker! A favorite Christmas memory for me is sitting around the Christmas tree with my family. I love the lights and ornaments and special times!
Thank you, Jennifer! I’m so glad to hear you’re looking forward to it. Isn’t the tree and lights one of the great joys of Christmas?! It’s one of my favorites too 🙂
I also just tweeted about your post. Thanks for the giveaway! 🙂
Thanks! I’ll count your extra entry!
My brothers and I (now 55, 63 and 66) would always wake up very early just to check our stockings, read the new comic books, read each others, hang them back up and head back to bed. Our lives depended on those stockings!
Oh, what fun! I love that you got your comic books and went back to bed. Too cute! Thanks for sharing your sweet memory.
I shared on Facebook!
I shared on Twitter!
Thanks for the shares! I’ll tall your extra entries 😀
A Christmas memory I cherish is the party we had a couple of years ago for the international class my husband & I teach at our church. We all sang Silent Night in English and then very impromptu our students began sharing it with us in their heart languages. From Ukrainian to Farsi to Russian to Chinese to Japanese to Spanish to Uzbek to Korean. Then we all sang it again, everyone in their own language all at once. Truly truly precious.
Wow, Carrie. What a memory! I love that song and get goosebumps thinking of all the different languages all joining on. Oh, my… what a beautiful memory. Blessings to you and your family this Christmas!!
Joanne,
What a lovely letter from Sarah! I love her and Tucker’s story and hope it goes over well with your other fans. 🙂
One of my favorite Christmas memories is more of a yearly tradition. My parents have always gotten my sister and me an ornament each year to put on our tree. The one they picked out for us this year is of the nativity scene. It’s so precious.
Blessings,
Andrea Cox
andrearenee2004@yahoo.com
Andrea,
Thanks so much! You were a blessing to me with this story! And I’m glad you enjoyed the letter. 🙂 I confess, it was a tricky one to write. I wasn’t sure *when* to write it, which gave me the biggest challenge. Once that all came together, the words flowed. Funny how that works.
Your Christmas memory sounds so special. My parents did that for us too! I still have all my ornaments and I’m sure in the years to come, you’ll be continually cherishing yours.
Cherished Christmas memory – my daughter’s first Christmas. She is my only child, and everything about her is a cherished memory.
Tara, that is special indeed. God’s blessings are so abundant, aren’t they? I hope you and your daughter have a wonderful Christmas.
What a sweet letter. I love your books!
Thank you so much, Kathy!
A beautiful and touching letter. My cherished Christmas memory was our first Christmas with our one and only grandchild Jacob. What a difference it make to have a grandchild to love and spoil. My daughter tried for 5 years to get pregnant and was diagnosed with breast cancer when Jacob was 18 mo.old. So, he is a true gift and joy for our family.
Many thanks, Mary Ellen.
Your first Christmas with your grandson sounds like it would have been a magical one! What a treasure he must be to you and your daughter. Wishing you all a Merry Christmas!
I can’t say that there is one specific Christmas memory that I cherish. It’s more of a collective memory…sights, sounds, traditions, and images that remind me of what a special season this has always been for my family.
As I write this, though, I do remember one tradition my sisters and I had as kids. Christmas Eve was always so full of anticipation (and still is!). So, the three of us came up with an annual Christmas party (actually, they may have come up with the idea even before I was born). We had a mini tree and decorations that we used in their basement bedroom. When we got old enough, we bought/made small gifts for each other and put them under our tiny tree. On Christmas Eve evening, we started our party by playing little games that we made up. Our parents would come down and we would have our snacks that we laid out like a buffet on my sister’s desk. Then, we would exchange gifts. That was always so much fun and a good way for little girls to be occupied while waiting for Christmas morning:)
Brittany,
I love the image you paint of a collective memory. I think that can be what makes Christmas time so special.
And oh! Your memory of your little Christmas tree and pre-Christmas party with your sisters. What a delight!! I bet it was a magical time for you and your parents as they got to witness and be blessed by your joy.
A special Christmas memory, Christmas 2010, the last Christmas I had with my Mother. Every Thanksgiving and Christmas she would say, “Next year we aren’t doing all this cooking, we are going to a McDonald’s and have a hamburger.” There was never a McDonald’s eaten on either occassion. Mother’s health was failing and she was very weak and had difficulty breathing. So, our last Christmas together, Ma had begun her gradual decline in memory and ability, we sat in the living room and she would tell me the same story for who knows the number of times, when all of a sudden she would have the most astonished look and ask, How many times have I said that tonight. Probably to often in a trembling voice I assured her she wasn’t bothering me, no matter how many times. She would give me that all knowing look and tell me not to be sad, that one day I would laugh about everything that was going on with her. Impossible, was never gonna happen, because my heart was breaking. Although dementia is a very sad thing, she was right, I often think of the times we sat together that last year, late into the night, just us and a cup of hot tea, and I’m overwhelmed with joy at the gift and blessing that was and is my Mother.
Sweet Melody,
It is always a joy to “see” you!
Oh how I love your mom’s spunk with that McDonald’s comment. So fun! Yet now… what tears I feel coming listening to the beautiful and heartwrenching memories of that season. What a cherished gift you and more mom were to each other. I can see it so clearly in the picture you paint. She sounds like a wonderful woman and what a dear daughter you surely were to her. Sending you a hug this Christmas, Bonnie! You are a blessing to those around you.
P.S. Melody, do you know Bonnie? ( 2 comments below) You are both such dears that I often think you may be Kindred Spirits!
I love all the hub-bub of Christmas – church programs, secret gifts, friend and family gatherings. I grew up as an only child, but my husband has a big family. I really cherish my big, fun, crazy, extended family, especially this time of year
I’m so glad you enjoy that hub-bub… it’s certainly what can make Christmas such a unique and bustling time of surprises and merriment! I hope you and your family have a wonderful holiday season, Lisa!
Such a beautiful, heart-warming touching story and letter, Joanne!! Thank you so much for “This Quiet Sky” and thank you for participating in this wonderful Christmas Chronicles blog hop. I’ve loved each of the Chronicles blog hops – they always provide such a warm, “home-spun” feeling that touches my heart and brings such pleasant memories to mind.
Christmas has always been my favorite time of the year so there have been so many wonderful memories associated with it for me through the years. Some of my faves are when my mother’s parents were alive: (1) my grandmother always made numerous kinds of cookies for Christmas which the family enjoyed, but she also delivered a plateful to each of her neighbors – she also made home-made custard and jam cake, two of my favorite desserts; (2) my grandfather always bought many different kinds of candy which he always brought out on a tray after Christmas dinner and passed around – each kind of candy had been hand-scooped from a glass-front bin and weighed; (3) during the week before Christmas, my mother’s side of the family would have a meal/get-together at a different family member’s house – each night of the week, a game they often played was Rook; (4) one special gift during these years was a beautiful walking doll that was purchased by my grandparents with coffee can lids; (5) my grandparents always had an aluminum Christmas tree with the light from a rotating color wheel shining upon it and bubble light ornaments attached.
The most memorable Christmas for other members of my family was probably Dec. 25th, 1943. I was born in a wood farmhouse next to a snow/ice covered country road – my birth making the true significance of Christmas even more relevant as the birth of the Christ child and God’s love and grace for each person He had created was celebrated.
Praying you and your family have one of your most blessed, joy and peace filled Christmases ever- Joanne!! Love and hugs!!
I shared this post on Facebook!!
Bonnie,
What a blessing you have been to journey with us through each Chronicles! And I’m so blessed to hear that you enjoyed Sarah’s letter and the novella. It truly means a lot to me!
Your memories sound delightful and all that yummy food is making me ready for cookies and holiday meals!! 🙂 How precious, too, the memory of your grandparents and them saving up via those lids to buy you the doll. Such a cherished memory that must be.
Thank you for the beautiful reminder of our Lord’s birth and the beauty of this season. I hope it’s a wonderful one for you!
And thanks for that share! I’ll count you down for an extra entry. 🙂
Awww!! I so can’t wait to read this!! But I want to finish reading these Christmas books I’m reading, before Christmas. Lol.
Well hello, Sarah! So great to see you here! I’m glad you are looking forward to the novella, too 🙂 🙂
Happy reading on your Christmas stories. Sounds like a fun time!
A favorite memory:
Each Christmas AM we would wake up to find full stockings. We would eat breakfast and then my grandfather would read the Christmas Story from Luke 2. Then we would open our stockings and presents.
Greetings, Tracie 🙂
That sounds like a precious time.. those stocking surprises and your grandpa reading from the Bible. So special!
A favorite Christmas memory for me is remembering how my brother and I would always check to see if the other one was awake. We would sneak in and take a peak just to make sure that Santa had really come and then go running into our parents room to wake them up and start a fun family day.
Karen,
I am enjoying all of these memories and yours is such a cute one! I love the image of you and your brother seeing who is awake first. 😉
One of my favorite Christmas memories is when we had a huge dinner and the majority of my extended family was there too. While my mom’s friends played the organ and accordion, we all polka danced. So much fun!
I also shared on Pinterest and Twitter!
Oh my goodness, Marissa, what a fun memory indeed! You’ve given me a huge smile… thanks for sharing!
P.s. I’ll put you down for those extra entries, too! 🙂
I grew up in a two-story house with an open stairway. We’d go to church on Christmas Eve, then hang our stockings on the stair railing before going to bed. After we kids were in bed, we could hear Dad and Mom filling the stockings. They usually always dropped some of the nuts and hard, wrapped candies, which sounded quite hard on the hardwood floor. Even though it was late, it sounded like they were having a good time together.
I enjoyed reading the letter from Sarah to Tucker and hope to read the book sometime. Your Cadence of Grace series was terrific so I know this book will be too.
Good evening, Pam!
Another reason to smile… all of your memories have been so special and this one is another delight! I love the thought of your folks having that grand time as they snuck about and you all listening in, enjoying it.
I’m so touched that you enjoyed the letter and are looking forward to the book. And thanks for your kind words about the series. They mean a lot!
Enjoyed the letter!! Shared on Facebook
Thanks so much, Peggy! And I’ll put you down for two entries. 🙂
My special Christmas memories are driving out of town to my parents home every Christmas Eve to meet my sisters and their families. We have made so many memories together over the years.
Sounds magical, Jodi! I hope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas!
Would love to read this book – sounds great! Thanks for the chance to win the lovely ornament!
Many thanks, Pauline! I’m thrilled to hear it and so glad that you’re entered. 🙂
Loved the letter! I want to know more.
Cherished Christmas memory? I think for me, different memories come at different times..baking the family Christmas candy..hanging ornaments on the tree (I still have ones my boys made when they were little)…buying my grandma’s favorite divinity (she has been gone for a few years)…I cherish all the memories.
Oh thanks, Shanna! I’m so glad to hear it!
I definitely see what you mean about different memories coming at different times. Each one is special and unique, isn’t it? I hope you and your family have some wonderful new memories this year!
Setting up the Christmas Tree with my Oma
I’m really liking this contest!
I’m so glad you’re enjoying the Christmas Chronicles with us, Janna. Your memory with your Oma sounds lovely 🙂
And I’ll count you for that extra share!
I shared the link on facebook
Oh, I love this beautiful letter, Joanne! Tucker and Sarah are two precious characters who stole my heart completely. I savored every word of their poignant story and it is one that won’t soon be forgotten! I would love to have these special treasures you are sharing. Thanks so much for the chance to win!
I have shared on Pinterest, Facebook, and Twitter.
texaggs2000 at gmail dot com
Good morning, Britney!
I’m so glad you enjoyed the letter. AND that you enjoyed the novella!!! Thank you from the bottom of my heart!
I’ll count you for those extra shares too!
Wow Joanne, that was a wonderful read. I feel like I’ve already started the book. Can’t wait to read it now. Do they end up together with Tucker fulfilling his dreams or does he come to find new ones? 😉
Hmmmm….favorite Christmas memory….I’d have to say any of the ones spent as a kid at my grandparents house. They were such amazing people and new how to make it an forgettable time and still keep Christ front and center even for a child.
Thanks again for the fun great reads you 5 are writing. God bless you and your family this holiday season. A very Merry Christmas to you!!
Kristie
Thank you so much, Kristie. That’s such a delight to hear and I so hope you enjoy Tucker and Sarah’s novella! And oh… good question. I bet you can guess that I’m going to tell you that you have to read it to find out *wink*
Your favorite memory sounds absolutely precious! The 5 of us are BLESSED to have you joining us!
The first Christmas my young son was fascinated by my nativity display. It had a removable baby Jesus. I told him baby Jesus doesn’t appear until Christmas morning, His birthday. That Christmas morning when my son came downstairs, before he even looked to see what Santa brought, he ran to the nativity to look for baby Jesus! That was so special. He’ll be getting married within the next year and that nativity will go to him and his bride for their home.
Greetings Gail!
And oh wow…. What a precious memory of your son! Talk about a little boy who knew the true meaning of Christmas. That is such a delight. I hope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas this year!
Wow, after reading this letter am in suspense. I really want to read this story. This sounds like such a beautiful read.
My favorite holiday memory is of helping a family in need that lived up the street from us. I could tell they didn’t have much money. While out Christmas shopping I bought a few extra toys and wrapped them and anomously left them on the front porch for the little boy. I truly think if I hadn’t left anything he would have had nothung for Christmas. How sad ! He came out a short time later and saw the wrapped gifts and excitedly called his Momma.
I could see the look of gratitude in his mothers eyes as she looked around to see who had done this. A few weeks later I once again anomously sent $100 in the mail to them for more gifts or a Christmas dinner. The family has since moved and I hope they are well. But that is definately my feel good, happy memory !
Deanne,
I’m so glad that you are looking forward to reading this story. Thank you for your kind words!
Your favorite holiday memory is a beautiful one. What a blessing you and your family must have been! It sounds like you blessed them so much!
And thank you for that extra share… I will count another entry for you. 🙂
I shared on my facebook page as well. Thank you
this is a wonderful time of year, our kids are grown living on their own, out of state and far away. I miss the days of all the excitement they would share with us, their days as school practicing for the Christmas program, going to church for the practice of our presentation there for the birth of baby Jesus. I’m so thankful for the memories. I really enjoy reading and appreciate how all of you have come together to offer your fans this wonderful chance to participate in this contest- thank you – Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays
Jennifer-
Aren’t the memories of Christmases gone by so dear? It sounds like you are cherishing many! I hope that you and your children and all of your family have a wonderful 2014 Christmas!
I pinned, my name: 4jlessad
I shared via twitter: @4jlessad
Thanks for all the shares, Jennifer! I’ll count your entries 🙂
Every Christmas eve my father would read the Bible “Christmas story” from Luke to my brother and me. Then the two of us would get a pillow and blanket and lie for a while with our heads under the edge of the Christmas tree looking up at the lights. Included in each year’s Christmas pictures is one of us under the tree.
Jill,
Oh that sounds magical. I love the combination of your family, God’s word and those lights. No wonder it’s a special memory!
Wow, I can see that This Quiet Sky would be a heart wrenching, yet poignant read. Congrats on its release.
Thank you, Ginger!
Please enter me. I’ve heard a lot of good about this book, and would love to read it! Also I love that ornament. One of my favourite verses. 🙂
Raechel,
Thanks for stopping by and for your kind words! I’m glad you like the ornament, too 🙂
My daughter was born a year after my husband lost his brother and mother (8 months apart). His dad was having a hard time dealing with it. Then came my daughter. That brightened his Christmas for sure. Just the joy on his face is memorable. This past August, we lost him, too. I just can’t quit thinking about how happy he was that Christmas. So happy and healthy.
Amy,
What an amazing picture of the joy and light your daughter was to your family during that bittersweet time. I’m so sorry to hear about the losses… and I hope that you feel great comfort and joy as you savor those memories this Christmas and all the year through. HUGS.
That was such a tear-jerking letter! My favorite Christmas memory is reading the Nativity story every year at my grandparents. We take turns being different “characters” every year. And even though it is the same story again and again, there is something so special about it every time!
Oh, Rachel. That touches my heart! It is a bit of a tear-jerker and actually took a while to put together.
Your nativity tradition sounds so fun! I love the way it’s special each and every time.
One of my favorite memories is the year I played secret Santa for a family that the mom had lost her job in the first week of December and was a single mom of 3 children under 8 years old
Sheila,
What a sweet memory. I’m sure you were such a blessing to that family!
My favorite Christmas memories is the time spent each year with family. I loved Christmas Eve at my grandmothers house. She didn’t have a lot, but she always gave us all so much love.
Tonja,
Sounds like such a special memory of you and your grandmother — the true meaning of Christmas!
Getting in the car and driving around the neighborhoods looking at Christmas lights on peoples homes
Susan,
That’s one of my favorites too! It’s such a simple one, but is so much fun. 🙂 I’m hoping to get out there soon with our kiddos this year!
Every Christmas is special but I’ve always cherished the first one I spent with my soon-to-be hubby and his family.
That does sound lovely! Lovely and romantic! Happy Christmas!
I tweeted!
I tweeted about this post.
Oops – somehow my tweet post went twice – please delete one of them!
I also shared this post on facebook.
Not to worry! And thanks for those extra shares… I’ll count your entries 🙂
My favorite memory is the year I almost stopped believing in Santa. My parents had carefully avoided my questions, and on Christmas eve my dad waited until the fire died down. He got out his big fishing boots, dipped them into the ashes, and walked around the Christmas tree. When I woke up there was actual PROOF Santa had brought our gifts down the chimney!
Oh my goodness, how fun your dad was! That is an adorable story. Thanks for sharing, Susan!
As a child, I remember always being able to open one gift on Christmas Eve.
Janice, we did that too and it’s one of my special memories as well. 🙂
There were six kids in my family growing up and my mom would get each one of us our own box of tinsil for the tree. Loved it!
Vicky – that sounds like a FUN time. What a great idea of your moms!
my favorite memories would be just reading Christmas books with my girls when they were little, making ornaments together, and baking Christmas cookies.
rhonda_nash_hall@comcast.net
Rhonda,
Those all sound so special and I’m sure that your girls have those fond memories close in their hearts!
I can honestly say that I cherish every Christmas I have ever had. Always an amazing time of year for me.
Mary, I’m so glad to hear it! Merry Christmas to you and your family!
When we were kids my grandma would host the Christmas Day dinner at her house with all of the family. It was so fun. I really miss it.
Chris, that sounds like a cherished memory, indeed!
Christmas is great! I always enjoy getting a few days off of work and spending time with friends and family. And of course I love all of the Christmas music playing everywhere.
Patty,
Isn’t it a wonderful time of year?! I’m so glad you enjoy it so and I hope this Christmas is a special one for you and your family!
Sounds like a wonderful book and the “letter” has certainly caught my interest! Christmas memory? We used to drive through neighborhoods on Christmas Eve after church looking at all the lights.
Rebecca,
I am so glad to hear the letter sparked your interest for the story. And I’m with you — just love those lights at Christmas time!
The giant pile of Christmas present’s under my grandmom’s tree!
Michelle – that sounds lovely! 🙂
Looking back at the many Christmas celebrations I have had, I think my favorite one was the year I received my typewriter. I was about 11 years old and have no idea why I wanted one that year, but I remember wanting it in the worst way. I think it may have been what started my need to write instead of just read. Writing is a growing passion of mine that started one snowy cold Christmas eve. I doubt that my parents had any idea that I would someday spend my free time writing.
Victoria,
I hope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas this year! Thank you for sharing your special memory. The thought of that typewriter has made my heart go pitter patter on your behalf!! Happy writing to you!
I’m a bit afraid to read the story now because it might end sadly! Special Christmas memory… how about a tradition? We read an advent story every year with our children. And we have a special breakfast we do every Christmas that includes a baked peach French toast.
Danielle,
I hope that if you do get a chance to read it, that Tucker and Sarah’s story might encourage you. Hugs! The Advent story and that french toast sounds like a wonderful way to celebrate Christmas!
A favorite Christmas memory is of taking our 2 year old and 1 month old to late service onChristmas Eve and my husband and I each having to take a child out due to crying. We were in good company with 3 others of the same ages in the hallway. As service ended and people left the church so many people told us how much they had enjoyed hearing babies fussing in church especially on Christmas Eve.
Deb –
Oh, I love that! As a mom who has three little ones in church each Sunday, that story blesses me too!
Growing up we gathered each Christmas with my dad’s family of seven siblings, spouses and grandchildren at my grandparent’s farm and shared a meal, sang carols around the piano, had horse drawn sleigh rides, gifts and always Grandpa reading the Christmas story from Luke 2. Cherished memories
Kerri,
That time with your dad’s big family sounds delightful. And horse drawn sleigh rides? How heavenly! It’s no wonder these memories are so cherished. 🙂
decorating the tree together
One of our favorites too 🙂
my special Christmas memory would be the last one spent with my father
Vicki – what a beautiful memory that must be. Hugs.
I thought at first this was your life it was so real!! Thanks for the great letter. I have many wonderful Xmas memories. My favorite was having my first son on Xmas Eve!
Oh wow, Rita! That gave me a smile. I’m so glad you enjoyed the letter! I hope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas!
I shared this post on Twitter.
My favorite Christmas Memory? I don’t think I have one… I LOVE Christmas and have had a ton of great Christmases!! Maybe Christmas 1979– that was the first Christmas my family was whole.
Ladette,
Thank you! I’ll count that extra entry. What beautiful words– “your family was whole”. I love that and am celebrating right along with you. We’ve had a Christmas like that ourselves.
When I was young my parents attended a small church that didn’t encourage celebrating Christmas in the traditional manner. Around age 4 we changed churches and one December a lovely family from our new church learned we had never had a Christmas tree. They delivered a small tree to our house along with decorations! My sister and I were delighted to have a real tree with lights and ornaments. On Christmas morning we awoke to presents! Southern Belle dolls for my sister and me, mine in a green velvet dress and my sister’s in blue. I still have that doll somewhere packed away (although when I was 9 my puppy chewed one of her feet-luckily she had dainty slippers that covered the damage).
Thank you for sharing this letter, I have read some of your books in the past and now I look forward to reading This Quiet Sky.
Merry Christmas to you and your family.
Micha, What a beautiful story. I can just imagine the contrast and amazement of having that first Christmas tree. How magical! And to have saved that doll — such a special memory and keepsake.
Thank you for your kind words about my books. I so hope you enjoy the new novella. Warmest wishes to you and your family!
Decorating the tree and hoping for snow for Christmas
Ola, Those are some of our favorites too! 🙂
I have many Christmas memories. But one that’s been on my mind for some time (and I really don’t know why): When I was in college [and I graduated in 1968, so it’s been a lonnng time], I received a pleated skirt and blouse set from my maternal grandparents. My sister and my female cousin each got a set of the same, but in different colors [I don’t remember what my male cousin received but suspect it was a shirt and pr of pants]. Mama Florence told me that Daddy Clyde wanted to get each of us the same thing; he always wanted to be fair and equal for the four of us. That may seem a strange memory, but somehow it has always been a very sweet one. I can still see that skirt and blouse, and it was always a favorite of mine.
Donna,
I’m smiling reading your tale of that pleated skirt and blouse. Isn’t it amazing how certain little memories can burrow into our minds and hearts and just stay? Those are so special. I’m sure you are holding on to many memories of your family this Christmas and thank you for sharing that sweet one! I still have an outfit that I remember wearing for my first day of Kindergarten and even still have it tucked away somewhere. 😉
I love Christmas and have many memories. My husband and I were engaged on Christmas eve 26 years ago. I am glad that I still get to share Christmases with him!
Melissa,
That is a special one! My husband and I were engaged on Christmas Eve, too, so I’m delighted to have that in common. 🙂
I cherish every Christmas that I can spend with my family.
Tammy,
May you all have a blessed Christmas!
My favorite Christmas memory is of my dad shaking his fudge mix in our big pink Tupperware bowl with a lid. And then cooking it in our black iron skillet, stirring, stirring until it was cooked. I would always get up early to sneak a piece…how I loved that fudge, but most of all the memory of my dad!
Oh, Rennee, what a sweet memory! You paint a beautiful picture of that fun time with your dad. Now I’ve got a craving for fudge, too! We cook in iron skillets too, so I can just see it all in my mind. Your dad sounds like he has a few things in common with my husband. 😉
I know I’m likely too late for the giveaway, but I’m a bit late catching up on The Christmas Chronicles. 🙂 I still wanted to say how beautiful this was…your writing is a sweet breath of fresh Appalachian air, Joanne. And I do look forward to reading The Quiet Sky one way or another, even though I’m a bit afraid it will make me sad. But the more I see of it, I know it will be in a good way. 🙂
A favorite Christmas memory of mine is when we had a good friend in the hospital (after an emergency appendectomy) on Christmas when we lived in New Mexico. With his family and one other we had a singing ministry at a local nursing home, so on Christmas Day when went and caroled for him (and by extension, others) in the hospital. It was very special hearing tidings of joy echoing down the hospital hallways.
Merry Christmas to you and your family! 🙂
Greetings Kiersti!
You are always such a joy to “see” and hear from! I’m so glad you were able to join us for the Chronicles. Thank you for your kind words about the letter. They truly touch my heart. And I’m honored that you are interested in reading TQS. That means so much.
The memory of you singing those carols in the hospital is such a blessing for me to read about. I can only imagine how you touched those lives that day. Isn’t it amazing what a little Christmas cheer can do for our hearts? It really is such a beautiful time of year because of the way different ways we can connect with others through those familiar and joyful tidings like Christmas carols. Hugs!
Thank you, Joanne! You are so very sweet and have been such a blessing to me, even though we’ve yet to officially meet. 🙂
Just saw my news! Thank you, Joanne, for your heart-felt “people.” Kathleen
I’m late to the party, but oh Joanne. This made me smile and nearly cry (and we both know what an accomplishment that is). Thank you for sharing this glimpse into her heart we didn’t have before. 🙂