Ramblings-n-Writings

Archive for April 22nd, 2009

Recently we’ve had to say goodbye to two of our furbabies.

Winks, our almost 7-yr-old boy kitty, and Buttons, our 3-1/2-yr-old Norwegian Forest Cat, have disappeared. Winks has been missing for 5 weeks and Buttons for 2. Unfortunately, we think they encountered a farm predator during an outdoor adventure. I’m holding out hope that one or both will show up at the front door but ……

I know Sylvester, Winks’ brother and littermate, is somewhat upset that he can’t find his brother. He’ll sit in a corner and wail – I think that breaks my heart more than Winks not being here because there’s nothing we can do to help/comfort Sylvester.

Overall, the other two cats seem to be doing okay. After Buttons disappeared, Sassy Lou kept to herself for a few days, but is better now. Buttercup, the kitten, seems the least affected of the bunch.

I don’t mean this to sound heartless, but in a way, I’m thankful that they disappeared and we didn’t have to deal with a sickness or an accident like being hit by a car. It’s been easier for us to adjust and the grief hasn’t been as strong. (We lost a dog suddenly last year when she was hit by a car. Definitely don’t want to go through that again!)

To see more Wordful Wednesday, click here.

Do you need a book to read while sitting on your back deck in gorgeous spring weather? How about a refreshing romance? Christine Lynxwiler’s The Reluctant Cowgirl might be your answer.

Crystal McCord is actively achieving her dream of performing on Broadway. Then a short-lived production and a shocking revelation about her boyfriend send her home to Arkansas for a short visit.

Going home isn’t an ideal solution to Crystal. She knows the memories will haunt her and the grief will overwhelm her. But she has to do what she can to help on the ranch. Even if it means a huge sacrifice.

Jeremy Buchanan from the farm next door is intrigued by Crystal’s arrival. However, he can’t let her distract him from his mission – finding his missing daughter. Can he manage both?

Author Christine Lynxwiler weaves a beautiful love story filled with adventure, family, and reconciliation. She brings the characters past their tragedy and into the arms of God. She doesn’t preach at the reader, but lets the characters and their lives illustrate the path so many take when immersed in grief.

So, if you need a great book to read this summer, pick up a copy of The Reluctant Cowgirl. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Actress Crystal McCord gave up the closeness of her big family in order to make a name for herself on the New York City stage. But when life in the Big Apple turns sour, she follows a country road back to her parents’ Arkansas ranch.

The last thing she expects to find in cowboy country is a new leading man. Still, she can’t help but imagine handsome rancher Jeremy Buchanan in the role.

Unfortunately, Jeremy’s been burned by Crystal’s type before. Or has he? Every time he thinks he knows her, the multi-faceted woman surprises him. Will the reluctant pair allow their hearts to guide them, or will their common stubborn pride keep them miles apart?

If you would like to read the first chapter of The Reluctant Cowgirl, go HERE