Celebrate with us! "The Letter" in this year's A Cup of Christmas Cheer
Heartwarming Tales of Christmas Past
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| View more inspiration for “The Letter” at https://www.pinterest.com/debbielynne1/the-letter/ |
Some of the best gifts this season will be delivered via mail.
Packages, boxes, gift certificates, and cards send our love, especially at Christmastime.
And such is the case in Debbie Lynne Costello’s short story “The Letter”
debuting in Guidepost’s A Cup of Christmas Cheer
2014.
This touching story depicts a family torn by pride and separated by war
who receives a life changing message of God’s healing and redemption, wrapped
in an unassuming white envelope and sent via the United States Postal Service.
Despite a little postal intervention, holiday goodwill doesn't kindle easily, at least to a young war widow trying to raise her
children without the help and support of her pampered mother-in-law. Only a
Christmas miracle will melt the ice around the proud matron’s heart to embrace the
best gift of all—family. But will nerves frazzle before the frost thaws between
them?
Set at the end of World War II, after most surviving
soldiers have returned home and families are rebuilding lives with or without
loved ones, this story captures the high emotion of our country celebrating its
first peacetime Christmas
since before Pearl Harbor.
Like all of Debbie Lynne Costello’s stories, it
features a strong southern heroine whose courage is a pillar to her family, a
touching tribute to the women who served at war-work while their men braved the
battlefield. But will this struggling widow’s faithfulness prove enough to turn
hard hearts and reconcile the past?
Patriotism, forgiveness, and personal character
abound in this beautiful story that will surely enrich every reader’s
appreciation of family, home and country. Read this heartwarming story where God’s
grace is the overarching theme, making miracles--both big and small--possible at
Christmastime.
Celebrate with Debbie Lynne on
her debut by entering to win this gift bag full of Christmas goodies to enjoy or to pass along to loved ones.
Leave a comment about a special gift you sent
or received in the mail with
your email addy, and this prize package could be yours.
Another winner will receive a set of the 2013 collection of A Cup of Christmas Cheer (with Carrie's short story "Snowed In" and another commenter will receive the 2014 set of A Cup of Christmas Cheer, volumes 3 & 4, with Debbie Lynne's story!!!
Purchase your own copy of the Guideposts collection here: http://www.shopguideposts.org/catalog/product/view/id/2084
Connect with Debbie Lynne Costello on her blog, http://theswordandspirit.blogspot.com/
and facebook https://www.facebook.com/debbielynnecostello?fref=ts
Leave a congratulatory comment here for Debbie Lynne for a chance to win one of these three prizes!
What an exciting day! I've been looking forward to celebrating with Debbie Lynne since 2006 when we both "met" in a critique group at ACFW. Her writing has blessed me with some wonderful characters and heartwarming messages of faith, and I am thrilled beyond all telling that readers will finally be able to enjoy them, too.
ReplyDeleteWelcome to the big celebration! Hope everyone had a blessed Thanksgiving and your Christmas decorations and shopping are well under way. Can't believe it's December already. :)
I'll be checking in throughout the day. Hope you all enjoy the post. Blessings!
Kathy!!!!! Thank you so much for this celebration! Those were some fun days and steep learning curves! Looking forward to chatting with everyone today!
DeleteI am so JEALOUS! I didn't get to meet DL until later and I didn't get to be in a crit group with her. That would have been great. Thanks so much Kathy for celebrating Debbie Lynne's debut!!!
DeleteHubby and Amber bought the tree yesterday after church, it is a beautiful White Pine! I need to have Amber take a picture before she starts decorating it. Sometime after she comes home from work she plans on decorating it. I cannot wait to see it fully decorated!
DeleteWe started our Christmas shopping early but now we are really shopping for everyone. We need to especially get his parents gifts soon, then shipped to Hawai'i.
You have a wonderful and blessed day, Kathy! Thanks for putting this party on, and thank you, Carrie!
Hi, Regina! Great to see you here. Wow--a real tree. The scent must be glorious. And Hawaii-oh my how long does it take to send a package there? :) good luck on the giveaway!
DeleteKathy, the smell is wonderful! We have it out on our enclosed porch (they got a big one! Hubs had to cut quite a bit off the bottom! lol). It usually takes a couple days with the post office, that also depends on how busy they are with shipments. Although it is a two day shipping speed it could take up to four days. I am thinking with us living in SD now, it may only take the two days.
DeleteRegina! I love real trees. One of these days I'm going to get one again. They are so beautiful and I love, love, love the smell!
DeleteThis is so awesome. I love the WWII Era. So many heroes at home and in the service. Many sacrificed for their country. Congrats on your debUT. I wish you great success!!!
ReplyDeleteHey Li-An! Thanks for coming by. I have a very soft heart for military personnel. It was fun writing about one of the many families that suffered loss and hurt at the hands of war.
DeleteLi-An, thanks so much for coming. :) it would be so cool if you win one of the giveaways!
DeleteCongrats on your book. May you have many more to come. you are a great writer keep up the good work.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Tammy! I'm super excited and enjoying this roller coaster ride. LOL. Thanks for coming by and celebrating with us.
DeleteHi Tammy. So nice to meet you. :) thanks for joining the celebration and good luck on the giveaways
DeleteDebbie Wonderful! terrific! beautiful! You did it.......God bless you and yours
ReplyDeleteAll of you please have a productive, God-blessed day
Awe, thanks Chris! You are such an encourager!! You have a blessed day, also. Thank you for coming by,
DeleteHey, Chris. Nice to see you bright and early, especially for you Oregonians. How was your Thanksgiving? Good luck on the contests.
DeleteCongrats on a wonderful book! I love reading stories surrounding the WW eras. Getting packages or letters in the mail is so much fun at Christmas time. I remember one year I received a beautiful leather bound journal from a distant friend. It's still precious to me today!
ReplyDeleteHave a great day celebrating!
Oh how fun, Susan! Surprise packages are the best! Matter-of-fact I am putting one of those packages in the mail to my son and new daughter-in-law today! Thank you for coming by and celebrating with us!
DeleteSusan, I really miss getting cards in the mail from my mom. I loved getting mail as a kid, teen, and young adult. Now it's mostly email! Thanks for coming by!
DeleteHi Susan. What a treasure that journal must be. Both for the gift from a friend and for the memories you wrote in it. I love to keep journals , too. Someday I'll be brave enough to reread them. :)
DeleteCarrie and Kathy,
ReplyDeleteSaying thank you just seems so inadequate! You were so sweet to throw this debut party for me. I just can't say thank you enough. Looking forward to a fun day of chatting.
Oops where did it go, lol! We are so glad to be celebrating with you and we'll be popping in and out today to share the joy! Big hugs!!!
DeleteP'shaw Debbie Lynne. I wish I had your panache at these things. But I am thrilled to celebrate with you.
DeleteAnd Carrie, I am so grateful to you for having us on your beautiful blog. Thank you!
Congratulations DEBBIE LYNNE on your beautiful short story 'The Letter' in A Cup of Christmas Cheer 2014!! I'm looking forward to indulging in this heartwarming tale!
ReplyDeleteThe question was asked about a special gift that was sent or received in the mail. One of the most touching gifts that was delivered to me one year was a photo book of my precious grandson made up for me by a special friend/author, and which included a very clever poem throughout! Because we are in different continents, the photo's were all taken from FB pics. I know the work that goes into these, but it was the thought and love that is seen in that book that continues to bless me today! God bless the postie's! :-)
Oh my, Noela! What an awesome gift! Yes, I do know the time that goes into that. You have a very special friend who must love you very much. I love to look through old photo albums and now with FB I enjoy looking through pictures that friends and family post on their pages. Thank you for coming by and celebrating with us today!
DeleteHey, Noela. Thank you for coming by. It's got to be a huge time zone difference there. What a lovely gift that was to get a memory album of photos. That is precious. :)
DeleteWe have a newspaper clipping from the Christmas following WWII when my father-in-law and his brothers were home and the family (10 kids) were all finally home together again. I just received the sweetest sculpted clay baby in the mail Saturday. dbdempsey98@gmail.com
ReplyDeleteHow neat that a newspaper article was written for the Christmas family reunion. That is something to treasure and pass down from generation to generation. Old newspaper clippings fascinate me. They open a window into the past and tell so much about people. Thank you for coming by and celebrating with us!
DeleteWow, that is cool! My dad served in WWII and thankfully ALL his brother came home. My grandfather allowed the youngest to enlist into the Navy, toward the end of the war, even though by that law he didn't have to as it was ALL his sons gone to war. Thanks for coming by!
DeleteCarrie I never knew that all your uncles served, but I did know about your father. Wow--what a blessing they were to our country.
DeleteBecky, thank you for sharing about your family history. What an amazing time that must have been. It truly was the greatest Generation.
DEBBIE!!! OH. MY. GOODNESS, MY FRIEND ... "The Letter" sounds like a Hallmark movie in the making, and one of my favorite eras too!! I am looking forward to reading it, my friend -- hope it flies off the bookstore shelves (via air mail, of course!).
ReplyDeleteHugs and more hugs!!
Julie
JULIE!!! THANK YOU for stopping by! I know you have a crazy busy schedule. I was thrilled to be chosen to be in A Cup of Christmas Cheer this year. What an honor. I never thought about writing in this era but when Guideposts books asked for story ideas this one was begging to be told. I hope you enjoy the story. I love your stories so much, I have to say, it is a little nerve wracking knowing you'll be reading it! LOL!
DeleteJULIE, when I read The Letter that was EXACTLY what I thought! Would make a great movie! You'll love this book. DEBBIE LYNNE, I'm so glad you're in this collection and I can't wait to read the rest of them, too. Loved your story!
DeleteJulie, Merry Christmas, and I hope your Thanksgiving was blessed. So lovely to see you. You'll love "The Letter". And you're so right- it would be wonderful on screen. :)
DeleteThe gift I cherish most is the Christmas Quilt my Mother made for our family the Christmas 4 months before she passed from cancer. She made 6 quilts for the 6 women in our family that Fall. Her label was 'a letter' to each of us. It does bring us some Christmas Cheer :)
ReplyDeleteCongratulations DEBBIE LYNNE on your beautiful short story 'The Letter' in A Cup of Christmas Cheer!
dkstevensne AT outlook Dot COM
Oh Deanna, How touching! Our mom gave a lasting and sacrificial gift you'll always be able to treasure. You need to put a letter with that quilt so as it gets passed down through generations they will know the loving story behind it. I just love to hear stories like this. How precious. I see a story in this. You need to write one!
DeleteDeanna, that should have a said "Your mom"
DeleteAw, Deanna, that is so touching. What great love she had for you to pour herself into that quilt, to wrap you in her embrace long after her arms could. That is just poetic. I'm sure she's smiling down from heaven among the great cloud of witnesses, just thrilled that you treasure it so.
Deletethanks for the kind words, I do treasure it...
Deletedkstevensne at outlook dot com
Congratulations, Debbie Lynne!! You've waited a long time for this day. I'm happy for you.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Vickie! It's been an interesting journey. I appreciate all the support you've given me through the years! Thank you for coming by. I know you are busy with deadlines and I really appreciate you taking the time to come by and celebrate with me!
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations Debbie Lynne!!! Your story sounds really good. My grandmother always had a angel top of the tree and bubble lights. Still have those bubble lights. As a kid money was very scarce so our gift from Grandma Bea was a big peppermint stick, I think of her every time I see those big candy sticks. Every season I have a different memory of her.
ReplyDeleteBlessings
Diana
joeym11(at)frontier(dot)com
What fun memories! I've heard about those bubble lights but have never seen them. They sound so interesting! I wonder why they don't make them anymore. I love an angel on my tree, too! So your grandmother and I have something in common. Thank you for coming by and celebrating with us!
Deleteit's lovely the way we carry our loved ones in our memories, Diana. Funny how a peppermint stick can bring back so many emotions like that. It's those simple things we can never plan that make our legacy. I'm sure you're building a wealth memories with your loved ones, too! I'll bet books have something to do with it, too! :)
DeleteCongrats Debbie! I haven't had the chance to read any of your stuff, but I definitely will now.
ReplyDeleteThe question you asked about the best gift I have ever received or sent. I received hand made cards from my grandmother for every birthday and most christmas'. They meant a lot, and so when my grandmother was sick this past year I sent her an owl broach (she loves owls) and she told everyone that it was the best gift she had ever received.
Wow! Hand made cards are so awesome! They tell a lot about the person who makes them because so much love and personality goes into each. I bet you treasure those cards! That is so sweet that your grandmother loved her owl broach. I know that must have blessed you that she liked it so much! Thanks for coming by and celebrating with us!
DeleteMelanie that is so sweet. How wonderful that you have such a love and appreciation for your grandmother. Thanks so much for sharing your story.
DeleteGood morning, Debbie and congratulations on your new release! How exciting! The description of your story sounds so good. I love Christmas stories and would love to read yours! Christmas Blessings!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Angi! I hope you get a chance to read my story along with all the stories in A CUP OF CHRISTMAS CHEER! Good luck!
DeleteCongratulations Debbie! I look forward to reading your story and Carrie's as well, when I can get my hands on these books. As far as a gift is concerned, I cannot think of anything at this moment, but am sure I will remember several when at work today...lol. Congratulations again :)
ReplyDeletebettimace at gmail dot com
LOL, Betti! You sound like me! I can never think of things on the 'spot'. Thank you for coming by and celebrating with us and have a great day at work!
Deletei hope you come on back and tell us when you think of it, Betti. Thanks for stopping by. Looking forward to hearing your story.
DeleteWow a big day for you Debbie Lynne. Congratulations!!! I received a special gift the year my mother passed away. It was in September around my birthday. My mom gave me a Christmas village that she had hand painted while I was much younger and starting to date. I do believe it was her way of keeping awake while waiting for me to get home.lol. It was truly beautiful and every time I look at it I think of her.
ReplyDeleteOH! Christmas villages are so lovely. I love them all. They are so interesting. I had to smile when you said your mom painted while waiting up for you! Isn't that the way of it? I couldn't sleep until my kids were all home and safe in their beds. I should have taken on a project like your mother did!
DeleteKatrina, now i am dying to know how many pieces are in the village, and how many hours she waited up. :) What a beautiful testimony of her love and devotion for you. What a treasure.
DeleteI won A Cup of Christmas Cheer from Debbie a few weeks ago and loved reading it. It's a very cozy, Christmas read and I highly recommend this collection for Christmas gifts.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Sharon! I'm so glad you enjoyed it. Good luck in the drawings. Maybe you'll win volumes 1 & 2 with Carrie's story in it. Thanks for coming by and celebrating with us!
DeleteI was thinking of these as gifts for a special friend.
DeleteThat would be awesome, Regina!
Deletei read most of last year's collection, especially Carrie Pagels's and Carla Olsen Gade's. This year I have only read Debbie Lynne's, so I can just imagine how good they all are, judging how much I have loved hers and last year's. Thanks, Sharon. Good luck on one of the giveaways!
DeleteThis story sounds wonderful! I've been feeling a bit humbuggish and these uplifting Christmas stories are just the thing to kick that mood to the curb. Best wishes for loads of sales and a brilliant (published) writing career! As for special gift sent or received in the mail...that's hard because most of our gifts seem to travel via UPS these days. But I love getting Christmas cards from friends I haven't seen all year - or sometimes even longer. Sending cards to high school classmates is special, too. (my email addy is mail (underscore) tammydoherty (at) charter (dot) net)
ReplyDeleteHey Tammy! Thanks for coming by to celebrate with us! I hope you win and the stories will bring you the Christmas spirit! Letters are so rare these days with email that I get excited when I see a piece of mail that isn't junk or a bill! lol!!
DeleteTammy, you are so sweet and supportive to come and celebrate with us. I know you have a new release out recently, too. I hope Christmas brings a nice boost in sales and new readers to you as well! Blessings
DeleteGood morning, ladies! Congratulations, Debbie, on the release of your book! I'm looking forward to being able to read your book.
ReplyDeleteI'm loving all the party dresses! Everyone looks so radiant and beautiful on this first day of December! Is there a fire somewhere I can warm up? It's -4 here in SD this morning!
I've received so many delightful Christmas gifts and some not so delightful gifts for Christmas. But, the first year of our marriage (2008), we received a Christmas box from his parents, my husbands parents live in Hawaii. They were so many goody is in the box...like macadamia chocolates (mmmm), seawood and rice snacks (blah, lol, more for hubs), homemade mac nuts, coffee (don't drink coffee, period), homemade jelly, and so much more! They pack so much stuff in those large postal boxes! We receive a Christmas box each year, we always look forward to that special touch of Hawai'i at Christmas each year. The sad thing... as Christmas rolls around my hubby becomes homesick, he would like to be there for Christmas with them. I am praying next year we can afford (save) for him to see his parents again.
I hope you can get to Hawaii sometime soon, Regina! I imagine that Hawaii would be so much fun to visit at the Christmas season! The box of goodies sound very yummy (minus the seaweed and coffee. Not a coffee drinker or a seaweed eater,. ;o) ) The party is on! I'm wearing a burgundy ball gown trimmed with embroidered gold thread. Kathy and Carrie did a splendid job, didn't they? Love the decorations. So festive! Thank you for coming by and celebrating with us!
DeleteDebbie, Christmas would be beautiful in Hawai'i!
DeleteIf we ever met we would have to order tea or hot chocolate! And we will stay away from anything seaweed!
I love your dress so beautiful and festive! Mine is a red dress (posted on facebook). Red and light blue are my favorite colors. What are your favorite colors?
Kathy and Carrie do put on some lovely and lively parties!
I think I will go see what hot drinks there are and the FOOD! And mingle with the other ladies.
So glad you're enjoying the party, Regina. The food is to die for! I will look forward to our having tea or hot chocolate together! I don't know that I have a favorite color. It seems to change with the years. LOL> right now I seem to lean toward lime green. Who knows what next year will bring as a favorite. ;o)
DeleteI agree with Julie - sounds like a perfect Hallmark movie! I love the book cover, too. Congrats and God's blessings!
ReplyDeleteAwe, Thank you, Pam! Maybe Hallmark will be giving me a call soon. LOL! Thank you for celebrating with us!
DeleteCongrats, Debbie Lynne!!! I wish you much success with the sales of the books, and your story! I won a set of these books last year and all the stories are so heartwarming and sweet.
ReplyDeleteThe first gift that came to mind is a beautiful care package I received from a fellow blogger whom I have never met. She sent me what she called a "Box of Sunshine" a few months after my daughter passed away. Each item in the box was handmade and very cheery looking. The items are on my desk and continue to remind me of the sisterhood we have in Christ because He is our common bond.
That's certainly not the only special gift I have received, just the first that came to mind. The ladies here at OWG have always been generous in their giving and I hold each one dear to my heart. The bonds go deep between us all :)
Thank you, Anne. What a special friend you have! I'm so sorry about the loss of your daughter, but I'm glad you have such special friends that hold you up during those hard times in life. That has to be one of the hardest things to go through. The ladies at OWG are an awesome group! I hope you enjoy this years volumes of A Cup of Christmas Cheer!
Deletewell said, Anne. The bonds here are deep and dear--all the OWG ladies are precious sisters of the faith. Wishing you an extra measure of joy this season. hugs and love to you~
DeleteCongrats on your new release, DEBBIE LYNNE! Sounds like a wonderfully sweet Christmas story, written by an equally sweet young lady! I have received such special and memorable gifts from my OWG "angel cohorts" that I could never pick just one. One special gift I received one year was a stained glass cross Christmas tree ornament by author Laura Frantz! Beautiful!
ReplyDeleteI love stained glass, Diana! My hubby made a small stained glass window with a cross in it for a project in college. Your fellow OWG ladies are awesome. I can just imagine the wonderful things they've sent you! Thank you for helping me celebrate my release!
DeleteI love stained glass! The cross sounds beautiful, Diana! The ladies are so delightful! It has been a blessing being able to know them!
DeleteHey, Diana! I hope your health continues to improve and saying special prayers for Terese's Carlton. What impresses me most about you sweet girls is that no matter what you go through you are ever sweet and full of grace and cheer toward others. Thanks for sharing your gift story. Stained glass is a wonderful keepsake.
DeleteYour kind words have my eyes tearing up, ladies. It's God's grace that enables us to have it towards others...thank you, Kathleen. Stained glass from Laura Frantz is a double blessing!
DeleteCongrats Debbie!
ReplyDeleteI received a special gift from a dear friend in the mail. It was a beautiful handmade shawl that she had made for me. WHat a wonderful pick me up when I was going through such a difficult time. She is such a blessing in my life.
Cheryl, handmade gifts are the best! Because you know you were in the person's thoughts for a while and they felt you were worth putting time into! What an awesome friend you have. Thank you for coming by and visiting with us and helping me celebrate my debut!!
DeleteOoh, like a prayer shawl, right? Each stitch representing love and blessings. That is a treasure. I have a very special friend like that. . .Debbie Lynne sewed me a Civil War gown for my daughter to wear for my book cover. Without a doubt those handmade gifts are the most treasured.
DeleteI also got a very special package today in the mail--Miss Carrie sent me a paperback of her new Christmas novella The Fruitcake Challenge, plus an adorable pair of Christmas wreath earrings. I am so blessed~ Thanks for sharing, Cheryl
Congratulations Debbie Lynne! I am so happy for you. Your story sounds wonderful. The time period is very dear to me, as that was the time when my parents were married and my father had returned to the states, but was still very active in the military. I wish you all the best in the future and look forward to reading many of your stories in the years ahead. Many blessings...
ReplyDeletemay_dayzee (AT) yahoo (DOT) com
Kay!!! Thanks for coming by and celebrating with us! I appreciate the sacrifice your father and all the other military men and women have given us. What an awesome gift--OUR FREEDOM! I hope you enjoy THE LETTER. Merry Christmas!!
DeleteWhat a great memory about your parents, Kay. My Mom and Dad were very young during WWII. My mom grew up near NYC, and my father had to flee Europe as a displaced person and came to the United States to start a new life with my grandmother and grandfather. I love stories set in this era, too, and Debbie Lynne's is a terrific read. Hope you get to win one of the sets. :)
DeleteDebbie Lynne congratulations on the publication of your story " The Letter " . WW II at the end was such an emotional time as families started rebuilding their lives. Christmas stories are my favorite type of books to read because in the end they usually have a happy ending. They are warm and encouraging stories. I would love to read your story. I know I'll love it !
ReplyDeleteAbout 15 years ago there was a family that lived up the street from us that had a little boy. I could tell this family didn't have much money. I anomously dropped off some wrapped gifts for the little boy at Christmas time. I saw the little boy go outside and discover the gifts. He then excitedly ran in to get his Mom. I could tell his Mom was so thankful. I also mailed, about a week later, a $ 100 bill to this family anomously as well for Christmas gifts as well or Christmas dinner. I would not want to see someone not have a very nice Christmas. Christmas time is about giving and creating a warm, happy feeling for others and in turn this makes us happy to be able to share goodwill toward others.
Deanne, what a truly precious and touching thing for you to do! I bet that family still talks about the time they received those anonymous gifts. There was a time in our early married days that we were very poor. My hubby worked 3 jobs to make a living and that wasn't enough for anything beyond bills. We never said a word to anyone but we had dear friends who just 'knew' and we received money in the mail, packages of groceries, and even a ham for Christmas dinner! You will probably never know the impact you made on this boy and his mom, but trust me, it was great. Thank you for coming by and celebrating with us. I'm super excited!!
DeleteDeanne, that brought tears to my eyes. What a beautiful sacrifice you made to give that family a Merry Christmas. God bless you and the secret angels among us. I know two ladies--you know who you are-- who have been very much like that to me this past year when we were out of work. I will never forget the timing of the Lord and how they were such a vital part of miraculous provision for me and my family. This is what it looks like to be a Christ-follower. And it is beautiful.
DeleteCONGRATULATIONS Debbie Lynne! So excited for you! I can't wait to read The Letter. :)
ReplyDeleteThank you, Caryl! And thank you for coming by to celebrate with us.
DeleteEvery Christmas I send a dear friend a counted cross-stitch piece. I've been doing this for several years now. It is a joy to shower her with love. She and her family had been there for me through some very difficult times.
ReplyDeletepsalm103and138[at]gmail[dot]com
How sweet, Caryl! I know your friend treasures your gifts. That is a very time consuming needlework. My daughter does cross-stitch and made me a Christmas stocking that I absolutely adore! Thanks for coming by and celebrating with us!
DeleteCaryl, what a wonderful tradition. My m-i-l made us a cross stitched clock when my husband and i were married. So glad you have good friends and it sounds like you really know how to show your appreciation for them.
DeleteOkay, I LOVE your Pinterest board for your book, Debbie Lynne!!! I actually have a couple of vintage ornaments that were my mom's from the late 40s-early 50s that look just like the ones pictured :)
ReplyDeleteThank you, Anne! Kathy Maher helped me with it. That was so much fun to do! And you have ornaments that look like them? That is REALLY cool! I love old things. I had a WWII era ornament and one day my shelf in my china cabinet fell and smashed it to a million pieces. That was sad!
DeleteOh that is sad!!! My china cabinet shelf broke and I lost ALL of the beautiful crystal serving pieces that were my mom's. Some were quite old, at least from the 50s :(
DeleteI keep the ornaments wrapped in paper towels and stored with the rest of the Christmas decorations. I figure if I don't HWC (Handle With Care) maybe they will survive better!
LOL! Isn't that the truth! We try to be so careful with something and then the shelf gives way while things we just pack up last forever.
DeleteI'm sorry you lost your china. Most things are just things but I'm a very sentimental person and I love the items that have been in our family.
Anne, i would love to see a picture of those antique ornaments! You made me chuckle about the HWC. I so relate! The photo on the pinterest page with the Corning glass ornaments is near and dear to me--I live 20 miles from Corning, and my dad worked briefly for Corning glass. It was so cool to find that photo among the random WWII era photos. :)
DeleteWhat a great day for a get together! Debbie, I cannot wait to read "The Letter".Sounds wonderful! I love the older lights that were for Christmas Trees...they always seemed special to me. So glad to be here!
ReplyDeleteHey Grace! Are you talking about the big lights that were about an inch in diameter? I was just telling my husband I love those lights and they were so much prettier! I wonder why they don't sell them for trees anymore. Maybe they get too hot. But I love them, too! They were so bright and beautiful. Thanks for coming by and celebrating!
DeleteThere's nothing like December for a get together. All of these stories about gift giving has me feeling so nostalgic. I am enjoying them all immensely. I love the big chunky bulbs too--you can still find them at hobby Lobby and Walmart. We have them on our outdoor fence with the garland. And they make them cool to the touch now a days. :) Thanks for coming by and sharing, Grace. Merry Christmas~
DeleteCongrats, Debbie!!!! So thrilled for you. And I love the theme of the party. =) Wishing everyone a bright and cheerful holiday season--and most of all praying that God moves in unexpected ways for everyone this month!
ReplyDelete(I posted my dress on the Facebook page!)
OH what a stunning dress, Roseanna! I love it! Thanks so much for coming by and celebrating with me. It's been a long road but I've loved it all! I've made so many wonderful friends, you included. Praying for a wonderful Christmas season!
DeleteCongratulations on your launch day. Looking forward to an interesting read.
ReplyDeleteAwe, Thank you, Lynn. I appreciate you coming by and celebrating with me. This has been an exciting and busy time. But I'm loving every minute of it!
DeleteCongratulations on the book!
ReplyDeleteTo answer the question about a special gift, when I was growing up, we did not celebrate Christmas. Around Thanksgiving, my great Grandfather and grandmother would send us a large box for the many birthdays that were around the holidays. They packed it full of things for a tea party, and $50 each for us. There were always little boxes of chocolates, and shortbread for tea. We loved it! It was such a special gift, that encouraged us to spend time together as well. martha(at)lclink(dot)com
You have thoughtful grandparents, Martha. What a sweet thing for them to do. I imagine that box was anticipated with excitement every year! Shortbread is my all time favorite thing to eat with my tea. Second up is biscotti. Shortbread practically melts in my mouth! Thank you for coming by and sharing with us!
DeleteMartha, thank you for another delightful story. I can just imagine your rapt little faces peering down into the box with anticipation. :)
DeleteIt's a great day for a launch! Congratulations!!!! Great authors writ great books and you are right up there, Sister! Thank you for sharing your wonderful talent.
ReplyDeletemauback55 at gmail dot com
Hi Melanie. Thanks so much for coming by today. You will love Debbie Lynne's story if you get a chance to read it. Good luck on the giveaways!
DeleteThank you, Melanie! That is sweet of you. Hope you do get a chance to read THE LETTER. Thank you for coming by and celebrating with us!
DeleteCongratulations Debbie! Your book sounds really good.
ReplyDeleteI love to receive cards and letters in the mail. When my husband was in the Navy, he wrote me such beautiful poems and letters. Once he sent me a letter on an opened up paper bag as he didn't have any paper to use. I still have all of his letters and cards.
Blessings, Tina
OH Tina! You just made me want to cry. How wonderful! I love that he wrote his letter on an opened bag. That is so sweet and romantic. There is something about a man in the military doing whatever he can to get a letter to his love!
DeleteMy hubby occasionally leaves me notes on my tea bag papers and I save them all! (Unfortunately Lipton just changed their bags so no more 'tea notes' for me. :o( )
OMGoodness, Tina, how romantic! I think one of these wonderful scribes should put that into a story to honor you and your husband. And DL, John does that too~ brilliant minds think alike. :D
DeleteI am fully enjoying reading all these stories! They are giving me some ideas for unique Christmas gifts this year. I sure do love to give unique, memory filled gifts. What a fun party today, Debbie, hope you are enjoying it!
ReplyDeleteSusan, I am thoroughly enjoying this party! I love home made gifts and giving them. I have some very precious ones that Kathy made me. I treasure them!
DeleteThis is just wonderful today, isn't it? We have such a great community of readers and writers celebrating today with us. What a blessing! Thanks, Susan. I'm sure whatever gifts you give your loved ones, they will treasure them.
DeleteHappy First Book Launch, Debbie Lynne!!! So happy for you! God bless, and I hope you sell millions!
ReplyDeleteLOL Mel! You are funny. Thanks for stopping by and celebrating with me, my friend.
DeletePopping in to say congratulations to you Debbie! Last year Carrie was sweet and sent me Volumes one and two....such a wonderful Christmas surprise. Hugs to you all!
ReplyDeleteHey Chaplain Debbie! Thanks for coming by and celebrating with us! Carrie is such a sweetie. She has another awesome Christmas story out this year, THE FRUITCAKE CHALLENGE. Such a fun Christmas story! Hope you get a chance to read it along with this years CoCC!
DeleteAhoy, Chappy! So good to see you came by. It's not a party without you. Praying this season brings you and your loved ones health, joy, and peace.
DeleteJust stopping by to give my congratulations to my good friend Debbie Lynne!!! You go, girl!! I'm so happy for you. This looks like an awesome story. I can't wait to read it. Please don't enter me in anything... I just wanted to come by and give you a big cyber hug. Ladies, Debbie Lynne is the sweetest lady. The epitome of southern charm and kindness. And she's an excellent writer too!
ReplyDeleteMARYLU!!!! Thank you so much for coming by! This is so much fun. But if it wasn't for you I wouldn't be here today. You've helped me so much along the way. You've been a huge blessing to me! Thanks for the hug and for celebrating with me. Love you, my friend!
DeleteWOW!! What a beautiful party - thank you Debbie, Kathleen and Carrie!!
ReplyDeleteI've received some wonderful gifts through the mail - one thing I really love is the newsletter I receive from family members and friends who live out of state and aren't able to be present to celebrate Christmas with me personally. Newsletters that mention all the special events of the previous year, in their lives, and often including photos.
I love the World War II era and am so looking forward to reading "The Letter", Debbie!! Just reading about it gives me a special feeling!! I was born on Christmas day in 1943, at home - in a wood farm house, a day of snow and ice covered country roads. A special Christmas miracle and gift to my family sent not through the mail, but truly a gift from God making even more evident the significance of our Lord's birth and God's grace and love for each person He created.
I'm thrilled for you, Debbie - saying a prayer for you and your writing, praying also that you're blessed tenfold for each and every time you bless and inspire someone with your writing.
Thank you! That is such a sweet blessing! What a wonderful gift, a Christmas baby! I had 2 December babies but neither on Christmas. They were the 30th and the 31st. But what a special birthday to have!!! Thanks for coming to our party! Enjoying mingling with everyone and getting to know people. So much fun on this December day!
DeleteBonnie--you are a gift~to your family and to all of us, too. Thank you for brightening the party with your special presence.
DeleteThis says it didn't publish my first comment!
ReplyDeleteCongrats, Debbie.
I'm enjoying the Launch Party and will probably pop in and out during the day in order to keep up.
Every year, as each child was born, I would make photo albums for my parents. As the children got older I would also include letters and school work with their pictures, My parents loved them especially since they didn't see us very often. And I think I enjoyed making the albums almost as much as they enjoyed receiving them.
Thanks for the opportunity to win such an awesome prize package!
Good luck to everyone.
God's Blessings!
Robbye! Thanks for coming by and celebrating this special day with me! Wow! What an awesome idea. I love it. I wish I would have thought to do something like that when we were apart from my parents. I can just imagine how much your mom looked forward to receiving your package!
DeleteHi, Robbye. I love that idea. I always planned to put together scrap books of my kids' schoolwork to give them when they got older. Right now the gifts are still in raw form in a box in the closet, still in pieces. LOL I love that you shared your children's growth and milestones with your parents. Now that I'm a grandma, I can definitely tell you what a blessing that must have been to them. Spending time with my grandson is like having my little ones back from the past for a moment in time. I'm sure they felt the same. Merry and blessed Christmas to you and yours!
DeleteHi, ladies! What a fantastic party!! Big hugs and congratulations, Debbie Lynne! I am so excited for you! I absolutely love "The Letter"! It is a very special story that warms your heart and begs to be read again and again! Handwritten letters and notes are some of my very favorite things and I love and treasure these special gifts. Handmade gifts are also special treasures!
ReplyDeleteBritney!!! You made my day! As if this wonderful party wasn't enough! I'm so glad you enjoyed THE LETTER! I love reading old letters. My great-grandmother kept all kinds of her letters from her sisters. They are just so much fun to read. It gives me a glimpse into what her life was like!
DeleteI couldn't agree more, Britney. Well said. :) Merry Christmas and good luck on the giveaways
Deletecongrats on your release, Debbie Lynne! My best gift I have mailed to someone would have to be one of the many prayer shawls I have made and sent to friends. I love praying over a person as I crochet and then to bless them with that warm cozy gift of love and prayer!
ReplyDeletePrayer shawls are such precious gifts! My mom and dad have both received them. Such a wonderful gift of sacrifice and love! God bless you for all your hard work!
DeleteI love prayer shawls! A lady makes them, she was handing them out, and I really liked one, so she gave it to me, but I felt I was supposed to give it to another lady. She has the prayer shawl now. What peace I received from being obedient!
DeleteThere is a lot of love and prayers that go into those prayer shawls! And the amazing thing...you
can feel the love and prayers through them! It is amazing how God uses anything to bless someone else.
Rhonda, that is a wonderful gift. I can just imagine the warmth and love the recipient would feel wrapped around them. What a blessing.
DeleteCongratulations on your release, Debbie Lynne! I'm so happy for you.
ReplyDeleteI love handwritten letters. I don't send as many as I used to. However, when I sit down to write one, I experience the same sense of peace that used to come over me in the days when I penned long missives to my friends on pretty stationery and dropped them in the mail.
Hey Keli! Oh I loved to write letters on pretty stationary! But it seems like I can never find the time to sit and do it anymore! I really admire people who do that. Speaking of which, thank you for the lovely Thanksgiving card! That was very sweet and so much fun to get in the mail!
ReplyDeleteWonderful party! I do love reading all the comments.. :)
ReplyDeleteIt's such a pleasure to have so many wonderful folks like you come by today to wish Debbie Lynne well. Thank you, Deanna!
Deleteforgot addy :)
Deletedkstevensne AT outlook dotcom
Congrats on your book, Debbie! I received a beautiful throw in the mail that has Jesus in the Manger printed on it. I got it for Christmas one year! It is so warm and cozy! When I use it, I feel as if Jesus is wrapping His arms around me!
ReplyDeletedowelljanet@hotmail.com
That is beautiful, Janet! What a wonderful gift!
DeleteThank you, Janet. And thank you for celebrating with me! The throw sounds beautiful and how wonderful that it gives you such peace!
DeleteSo nice to see you come by, Janet. What a pretty tapestry throw that sounds like. Even better that you put it to good use~
DeleteI tried posting this earlier this afternoon, but my phone and the blog were giving me a lot of problems. So I figured I will wait until I am back on the laptop.
ReplyDeleteOn both sides of my family there is a lot of history. Before my dad died in 2004, I didn't know anything about his life, he was very secretive. After his death I discovered a whole new family that I never met. His brother, my uncle, and I conversed quite a bit until he died a year later. On my father,s side, including my dad (not sure exactly which ones) served in WW2.
On my mother's side my grandpa and his brothers served in WW2; one brother was killed in action, the other was at Hiroshima. I was told he was one of the men that helped place the flag, the one that is popular; however, his name is not mentioned. There were four men but there were others, like my great-uncle, who were there.
I have been working on both sides of my families genealogy (I haven't had time though).
My husband's mother, when she was a child, was put in a Japanese camp.
Wow! What awesome history, Regina! I love to hear about our military heroes. My family has strong military connections--son, hubby, father, uncles, niece, nephew, great uncles and the list goes on. My great-uncle never made it home from the war. this story was to honor him.
DeleteWhat a great way to honor him, Debbie! It is such and honor and joy to serve our country!
DeleteOur military history goes all the way to England, American Revolution, Civil War, and not sure what else.
My daughter tried getting into the military, but they wouldn't accept her because of her hyperthyroid. She really wanted to be in the military. But we know now that it was God's answer, a clear sounding, No. If it wasn't for my disability I would have served in the military.
I'm sorry I haven't been around more today but this flu bug is really doing a doozy on me. I enjoyed looking at everyone's pretty dresses on the FB page, though! Hope y'all have a great evening :)
ReplyDeleteFeel better soon, Anne! Have a wonderful and blessed evening. I will pray for you!
DeleteHope you get to feeling better, Anne.
DeleteCongrats on your release! I have been over on Facebook all day. Oops!
ReplyDeleteThank you, for coming by, Nancy! I'm glad you stopped over here so you can be entered to win some prizes! I came in late to Facebook but have been having fun since I found out everyone is hanging out over there.
DeleteTY Nancy, how did I miss you over there? We're so happy to have Debbie Lynne on the blog and to have fun posting pics over on FB! Blessings!
DeleteNancy, I'm so glad you found us. Sorry--I will go over and make sure we send everyone over here. Thanks for letting us know and for coming by~
DeleteWow! Debbie You sure got a lot of people to come! Your book was a very neat story......God bless you
ReplyDeleteChris
Thank you, Chris. It has been an awesome turnout!
DeleteHey Chris, God bless you for coming by! Hugs! We're so proud of Debbie Lynne!
DeleteHappy Launch Day Debbie Lynne, I have to say I just love those little books won two sets last year ! One from Carrie and One from Carla ! Wanted to come over and leave best wishes since I have not gotten over in a long time. Life just dictates that other things have to be done first before online time. So glad to see so many friends here.
ReplyDeleteBlessings
Linda
Hey Linda! Thank you for taking time from a busy schedule to celebrate with us! Life does seem to get in the way of fun doesn't it? LOL! Good luck!
DeleteLinda, You are such a blessing to so many! Great to see you! Glad you enjoyed last year's set! Carla has another story in this year's collection, too!
Deleteyay, Linda, you made it~ Hope you can rest now and enjoy your evening. Thanks for stopping in. Good luck on the giveaways!
DeleteCongrats to my friend, Debbie Lynne! Can't wait to read your book. -Kathy Falde
ReplyDeleteMILLIE!!!!! Thanks for coming by! I really appreciate you taking time to jump over here! Yes, you need to read my story!
DeleteCongratulations on being published -- no small feat! (I'm collaborating on a writing project for a non-fiction consumer health inspirational myself currently and it's a long process!)
ReplyDeleteI think a fun Holiday tale is just the ticket to get in the spirit of the Most Wonderful Time of the Year.
Enjoy!
Thanks for coming by and celebrating with us. Wow! sounds like you have quite a project ahead of you! Good luck in the drawing! Thanks again for coming by.
DeleteThanks for coming by, SpreadinJoy. Don't forget to leave your email addy for a chance to win one of the prizes.
DeleteYou've had quite a party & I appreciate the book gift :) thanks so much!
ReplyDeletedkstevensne AT outlook dotcom
Congratulations to my Birthday Twin!
ReplyDeleteThe strangest gift I ever received didn't come in the mail but was Heaven sent. My mother died 17 days before Christmas. Needless to say Christmas wasn't very Merry that year. Six months later while going through her cards, I found one addressed to me in her handwriting. It was a Christmas card but she never sent it. I will treasure it always.
Janet E.
von1janet(at)gmail(dot)com
Oh my, Janet. What a sweet gift! Thank you for sharing your story with us. Thank you for coming by.
DeleteI do love a launch party. Congratulations!! You must be pleased.
ReplyDeleteMy first Christmas away from home was kind of lonely. My mother sent me a photo album depicting my life thus far. The most amazing & thoughtful gift.
marypres(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Awe, a mother's love! Mom's always seem to know what their children need. Isn't it amazing how God put that in moms? Thanks for coming by and sharing your story and celebrating with us!
DeleteCongratulations on the launch!
ReplyDeleteMy mother's best friend had moved to California. There, she had gone on a game show and won a designer fur coat. Since she lived in Southern California, she brought the coat for my mom as a gift, on a visit back East.After my mom passed, I sent the coat back to the friend for her granddaughter, who now lived in a state, that got lots of snow.It was a cherished gift passed down through the generations.
denannduvall(at)gmail(dot)com
What a neat story, Denise! That was very thoughtful of you to send it back to your mom's friend. Thank you for coming by and celebrating with us and for sharing your story!
DeleteA very big congrats. momtr3(at)yahoo(dot)com
ReplyDeleteThank you, Bonnie!
DeleteDebbie Lynne, Your story sounds warm and wonderful! I've never been a fan of WWII settings but I can't wait to read "The Letter"! Kathy, you did a great job with the illustrations you chose for this post--it just makes the story come to life. This is a long awaited day and I'm happy and excited for you Debbie Lynne, but I have to agree with Julie (Lessman) that this sounds like a future Hallmark movie.
ReplyDeleteWhen I was living alone during my college years, one time I received a package in the mail from my grandmother which was a complete surprise. It held thermal drapes for the window, and a set of sheets for my bed. Since I was scraping by on part-time jobs, I can't tell you how luxurious those simple gifts felt to me. It was like Christmas although it wasn't anywhere near December. I'm looking forward to reading your story and finding out how a letter changes everything for the widow and her mother-in-law.
Congratulations, dear friend! Thanks, Kathy, for hosting this launch!
Thank you for coming by, Linore! Isn't God amazing the way He puts things on people's hearts just when we need them? I love that your grandmother sent you practical gifts you could really use! And thank you for your kind words about THE LETTER!
DeleteCongratulations Debbie Lynne. Hard work has paid off. This was an amazing post. I would absolutely love reading your new book. Wishing you a wonderful Christmas and continued success with your work!
ReplyDeletesonja dot nishimoto at gmail dot com
Thank you, Sonja! I will be on blogs throughout Christmas and giving away CoCC on each blog. Stop by for a chance to win!
DeleteThanks Debbie for this give-away. Would love to win it. My mother-in-law used to send us a box of goodies every Christmas. Homemade candies, cookies, and Yummy popcorn balls. No one could make them better. Then one year they sat it outside and ants got in it. Was such disappointment that year. It was something we really looked forward to.
ReplyDeleteLoved the gift of hand written letters through the years. Now, no one wants to take the time to set down and use a little of your time to write a friend or relative. I alway have liked to write letters. GOD bless you. (((Hugs))) to all of the OWG girls. Love you all. Maxie > mac262(at)me(dot)com <
Forgot to give you my Congratulations. Sounds like you did a very good job. Maxie
ReplyDeleteWarmest congrats and every cont'd success, Debbie!
ReplyDeleteI've been pleased to post your giveaway to my Pinterest Book'd Giveaway Board and enjoy every item you've so thoughtfully included! A total WWI and II reading fan having had uncles who served and war bride aunties that resulted !
I always loved getting dried fruit trays in the mail from a fav uncle and aunt - perfect for posting and receiving!
Blessed Advent and HapPy Christmas Wishes to you as well,
Sharon of faithhopecherrytea [at gmail.] com
I received my book gift today of A Cup of Christmas Cheer 2013 and they are beautiful. Thanks so much, I am so ready to start reading them :)
ReplyDeleteTHANK YOU ! !
Deanna *Dee* Stevens