Books, Cheeses, Wreath & Pecans

IF you’re wondering (or maybe not) WHAT these items have in common — ALL are connected with Christmas (really).

The books are holiday-themed reads selected at random from the library where I volunteer regularly, re-shelving books. IT gives me a chance to “find” books that I might not have selected to read.
The only author I’ve read in this group is Patterson who writes with so many co-authors that it’s like reading different ones each time. The remaining books are first-time reads by these authors. What’s great about reading a holiday book is that it’s usually not one in a series. Not sure HOW many I’ll read — 2 so far, but as the return date is mid-January, there’s still lots of time.

The Christmas Wedding by James Patterson & Richard DiLallo — a widow (Gaby Summerhill) decides to re-marry on Christmas Day at her Massachusetts farm. But the bride's choice of a groom is a mystery as she won't tell her family or even her potential husband, one of three suitors who have proposed. Gaby decides,then sends a DVD to her four adult children inviting them to attend. She is sure the mystery will bring them home for the holiday.
A Covington Christmas by Joan Medlicott — the new pastor at the Cove Road Church in Covington learns that a former pastor (from 40 years ago) was not an ordained minister, and not qualified to marry people. This means that the longstanding marriages of five congregants are invalid and it’s decided the couples will remarry on Christmas Eve. The church needs repairs and funds are lacking; can it be fixed in time? 
Gingerbread Cookie Murder by Joanna Fluke — Cookie store owner Hannah Swensen finds her neighbor with his head bashed in and sprawled on the floor of his condo near an upended box of Hannah's Gingerbread Cookies. She discovers a list of potential murder suspects as long as her holiday shopping list.
Fellow blogger, Rebecca, Shenandoah Gateway Farm, is a big fan of Ms. Fluke’s mysteries, which are titled after desserts AND contain cookie and dessert recipes. Check out the Lovely Lemon Bar Cookies recipe posted on Rebecca’s blog, as well as other tasty recipes.
Tidings of Great Joy by Sandra Brown — Architect Ria Lavender is enjoying her success when at a Christmas party, she meets handsome, charming Mayor-Elect Taylor MacKensie. Ria never imagines that they will leave the party together and get caught up in the magic of a snowfall and champagne that results in her becoming pregnant. She persuades Taylor to marry her (temporarily to give the baby a name, then falls in love with him. She fears his prime concern is protecting his career and vows to keep her distance; unforeseen events teach them both a lesson in miracles and love.
An Irish Country Christmas by Patrick Taylor — Dr. Barry Laverty is looking forward to his first Christmas in the village of Ballybucklebo, but learns that his sweetheart might not be coming home for the holidays. He has little time to dwell on his disappointment as he and his senior partner deal with an occasional medical emergency, seasonal ills, and new competition in the form of a patient-poaching physician whose quackery threatens the townspeople’s health. The two doctors play Santa to a struggling single mother who has a sick child and no money. (This is the largest book to be read last.)

THESE cheeses (all 3) are from friends, Barbara and John, who live in the other VA near Washington, DC. This holiday treat, which has been arriving for the past several years, is MUCH appreciated and enjoyed. Barbara is a long-time online friend (pre-blogging). We have only met once, yet not only do we receive this holiday treat, but they refuse any in return (we have tried). Barbara told me that our Friendship is her most important gift.

This wreath hangs on our front door, a handmade gift from a new neighbor, Angie, and made from assorted pinecones and pecans, locally gathered. It’s a lovely adornment and also much appreciated, but Angie told us it would not be a “keeper” because of the natural materials.

THIS week, I have been busy preparing gifts — pecans. They are always the perfect size and color and enjoyed by many !How about YOU — Surprises Received and/or Planned ?