Presenting: Barbara from Serenity Gate...

Hi Y'all (yawwwllllll)....Isn't that a lovely face? Barbara from Serenity Gate - what a light inside she carries- and look at her sparkling eyes.

Before I brag on Barbara, I guest blogged at J. Kaye's Book Blog. Had a fun ole time, too. Still having fun - reading comments and answering questions. Teehee. She's having a contest there, too- for a signed copy of Tender Graces - This is her contest, and the contest rules are outlined there (my apologies to my friends outside of US and Canada who may go there to try to win a copy ...dang....!)

Now, there are so many of you who have taken the time to write up a praise blurb, or post about Tender Graces, or write up a review, or email me your thoughts, et-cetera. I am overwhelmed with gratitude. So, I'm going to spend some time bragging and talking up all of you! My first "brag" was on Deb Leblanc.

Today, I want to talk about Barbara at the Serenity Gate.

From Barbara's sidebar: "WELCOME TO MY SERENITY GATE. I CREATED THIS QUIET SPACE SO THAT MYSELF AND OTHERS MIGHT FIND PEACE, INSPIRATION, AND JOY HERE. I HOPE YOU WILL STAY TO READ MY THOUGHTS AND ENJOY THE MUSIC AND ART."

And I do find peace, inspiration, and joy there. And lovely music. And lyrical poetic musings. Barbara's blog is a lovely breath of air. There is always something upbeat to read, to feel, to ponder over.

When Barbara won books from my book give-aways, I sent her a bonus book. I never expected anything in return. But one day a package came. Inside was a layer of cloud! Barbara sent me the most beautiful pashima - it is the softest wrap I've ever had. Stop by her Fatimas Treasures!

Barbara wrote this about Tender Graces- I am overwhelmed by her words (and Barbara - I saw your review on Amazon reviews - *laughing!* yes - I went by there...but just for a second, only a teeny second!):

I didn't realize just how gifted she really is until I read her new book! How did I love it? Let me count the ways: 1. Poetic 2. Imaginative 3. Clever 4. Unique 5. Exciting 6. Haunting 7. It made me laugh/it made me cry 8. It's one I'll never forget. The story is beautifully written, haunting, profound, and develops the characters in a way that makes the reader feel personally connected. It should be in Oprah's book club (for the complete post, you can click here)

Thank you, Barbara, for your words, and for your Serenity Gate.

Now, I need to Git to Work (yes GIT!....said like mean old Aunt Ruby!)