Mom’s Favorite Reads eMagazine April 2021 by Mom’s Favorite Reads

Mom’s Favorite Reads eMagazine is published monthly by Goylake Publishing and designed by Melanie P. Smith of www.melaniepsmith.com

www.hannah-howe.com

https://kidsstoriesblog.com/

www.moms-favorite-reads.com

www.ronesaaveela.com

https://melaniepsmith.com

https://sylvafae.co.uk/blog

https://www.facebook.com/TEHodden

https://www.wendyhjones.com/buy-direct/

https://www.poppyflynnsaucyauthor.com/

www.moms-favorite-reads.com

https://www.grantleishman.com

www.facebook.com/momsfavoritereads

Discover more about us through our video:

https://youtu.be/s0CNofMbQdM

Never miss an issue by subscribing to our FREE magazines: www.tinyurl.com/momsfavoritereads-subscribe -5-

Do Pets Really Make You Healthy? by Melanie P. Smith .................................................................................................. 8

Bekah Rain Art—Interviewed by Lisa Shambrook ........................................ 16 Creation & Innovation — Interviewed by Sylva Fae ....................................... 40

Laughter is the Best Medicine! by Hannah Howe ............................................ 36

The Bluebells and the Ogre by Jessica (Age 11) ............................................... 60

Under the Emerald Sky by Juliane Weber ........................................................ 20 Memories of Ireland by Chantal Bellehumeur ................................................ 50

Nobody Here is Actually Real by Ross G. Homer ........................................... 21 One Good Lick by Dalton Ruer ........................................................................... 34 The Long Drive by Penny Luker ......................................................................... 62

Life by Stan Phillips .............................................................................................. 31 April Dilemma by Maressa Mortimer ................................................................ 37 The Woods by Stan Phillips ................................................................................. 68

Butterflies & Caterpillars by Sylva Fae .............................................................. 26 Signs of Spring by Melanie P. Smith ................................................................. 48

Heroines of SOE by Hannah Howe ..................................................................... 14 Wednesday’s Child by Laura Thomas ................................................................. 18 Escape to Simplicity by Sylva Fae ........................................................................ 24 A Brave New World? by Grant Leishman .......................................................... 28 The Danger of Indifference by Father Ian Maher ............................................. 32 Genealogy: Researching Your Family Tree by Hannah Howe ....................... 38 Mum’s the Word by Ruth Leigh ........................................................................... 46 Europe by Book by Hannah Howe ...................................................................... 64 When the Doc Said No by Keith Guernsey ....................................................... 70 Things to Celebrate in April by Poppy Flynn ................................................... 75 Inspiration by Wendy H. Jones ............................................................................. 78 National Pet Month by Melanie P. Smith .......................................................... 80

Mom’s Favorite Reads Author — SheenaMacLeod ...........................................66

The Healing Reviewed by Wendy H. Jones ....................................................... 44

Puzzles by Paul Godding ....................................................................................... 45 Black to Move—Supplied by Chess.com ............................................................ 69 Hot Rod Todd Coloring Pages .............................................................................. 72 Word Search by Mom’s Favorite Reads .............................................................. 74

20% OFF First Book Promotion with the Fussy Librarian .............................. 80 Connections eMagazine ......................................................................................... 81

Do Pets Really Make You Healthy? by Melanie P. Smith If you’ve ever had a pet, you understand the joy of coming home. It’s been a tough day at work, everything that could go wrong has gone wrong, you’re tired, grumpy and you just want to drop onto the couch and veg for a while. Then, you push open the door and there he /she is — you’re instantly greeted by a happy, rambunctious four-legged friend who’s been waiting all day to see you. The unconditional love shines in their eyes, it’s easily recognized in the exuberant wag of their tail, or vocalized in the happy bark of greeting or a subtle meow the instant you step through the door — and it will certainly make you happy. It can also have a positive impact on your health. Studies have shown the companionship of a pet can help reduce stress, improve heart health, and improve emotional stability. It can even help your child improve social skills — I say child because; well, you know that whole old dog new trick thing?

loneliness. One study suggests that when a child grows up in a household with pets, the interaction can actually improve their development and social skills. That means any pet — dog, cat, bunny, hamster, or even a fish. So, while inconclusive, there appears to be at least some health and social benefits to having a pet. We’ve all heard of therapy dogs. These specially trained K9s are brought into hospitals to brighten a patient’s day and help them feel unconditional love and joy for just a little while. But did you know, dogs can also help in the classroom? Dogs have helped children with ADHD focus better, which improves their ability to pay attention to their studies. Kids that read to a therapy dog once a week for 30 minutes showed better social skills and, an improved ability to share, cooperate, and even volunteer. They also had fewer behavioral problems. Another study showed that kids with autism were calmer and their anxiety levels dropped when they were able to hold and play with a guinea pig in the classroom. Researchers believe that because animals offer unconditional acceptance, the children learn those same traits, and are able to utilize those skills in a social setting with their peers.

So, should you get a pet and if so, what kind should you get? Do all pets bring stability and health benefits to all people? Over the past few decades scientists have asked this very question. They began studying the potential mental and physical health benefits of different animals from fish to guinea pigs to our most common furry friends — the dog and cat.

What did they find?

Honestly, the results have been mixed. Interacting with animals – any animal, has shown to decrease stress and reduce blood pressure. Experts also suggest having a pet can increase confidence, improve your mood, decreases depression, and reduce -8-

exposure to pets may actually protect children from developing allergies; if the child already has an allergy, owning a pet will do more harm than good.

In addition, pet ownership is a big responsibility. These little guys and gals are completely dependent on their humans. Before you get a pet — any pet — you should make sure you know how to care for one. It’s even more important to ensure you have the time and financial ability to care for a pet. If you can’t give a pet attention every single day, or if funds are tight, a pet may not be right for you.

Another study showed that teens with diabetes were better able to manage their disease if they were tasked with caring for a fish. Researchers had a group of teens care for one fish twice a day. This care including feeding the fish on a schedule, checking water levels, and cleaning the tank each week. This responsibility was paired with checking glucose levels and maintaining a log of the results. The teens became more disciplined, consistent, and reliable when checking their own blood sugar levels if those activities were paired with the responsibility for caring for a pet.

Animals can feel stress, too. A lack of attention, or even too much attention from a toddler or family member with a developmental disorder, may cause a pet anxiety. Animals mainly fall back on fight or flight, which means they may act out in aggressive and dangerous ways. It’s extremely important to know your household and select a pet that is right for your circumstance. This might mean no pet, or it could mean waiting a while before getting a pet. If you have kids in the home and decide a pet is still right for you, always make sure you supervise your children every time they interact with your fourlegged family member.

With all these benefits, should everyone own a pet? No. Not every household is suitable for a pet — especially those with small children. While there have been studies that suggest early

-9-

to help decide what animal is right for you. ♦ ♦

♦ ♦

♦

Pets can cause stress. Yes, I know I said they can reduce stress — so, this sounds contradictory, but it really isn’t. A pet that is a good fit can reduce stress. A bad fit can actually increase anxiety and stress levels. Think back to the scenario of returning home after a difficult day at work. What if, instead of encountering the loving companion when you walked through the door, you find your house destroyed. Maybe your puppy dealt with his boredom by tearing apart your new couch and tossing the stuffing all around the room. Or, your cat tipped over the garbage can and proceeded to chase that filter full of coffee grounds all over the kitchen floor before shredding the paper into tiny little pieces. Instead of joy and happiness, you now face even more stress, increased blood pressure, and hopelessness.

♦

What is the lifespan of the pet? How much exercise will my pet need and can I devote that time to my companion? How large will the pet become and is it right for my living environment? What is the average cost for the pet, and can I afford it? What about the unexpected? Do I have a way to pay for vet care and emergencies? What does this pet need to be healthy and happy? Can I provide that? Are there children, elderly, or people with weak immune systems in the home. How will my pet impact those family members? Do I plan to get pregnant during the lifespan of this pet and how will my pet be impacted by that life-changing event?

What health risk are associated with pets? We all enjoy cuddling with our pets. Unfortunately, some companions come with risks. Here are a few you should consider when deciding on a pet. Reptiles (turtles, lizards, snakes, etc.), amphibians (frogs and toads), and backyard poultry can pose serious health risks to young children or those with a compromised immune system because these animals can spread germs and disease to humans.

Your workday and your energy levels should be carefully considered when deciding if a pet is right for you. Be realistic. If you’re exhausted when you finally get home after a twelve-hour day at the office, do you really have the energy to take Fido for a walk. He has tons of energy and he’s been waiting all day for you to get home so he can mark a few trees and chase butterflies around the park. If you know you won’t interact with your pet, be sure to get one that doesn’t require that kind of attention. A fish, or a hamster might be a better fit.

Pregnant women are warned to avoid cats, especially kittens. They can carry parasites that pose serious risk of birth defects. If you already have a cat and become pregnant, that doesn’t mean you have to find Fluffy a new home. However, you should definitely avoid changing the litter box.

Rodents (rats, mice, guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils, etc.) can also spread a virus that causes birth defects. Pregnant women with a pet rodent should avoid direct contact with their pet and have someone else clean it’s cage during the pregnancy.

Once you decide you’re ready to take on the responsibility of a pet, ask yourself a few questions - 10 -

Pets get sick, too.

Do pets really enhance lives?

It’s important to keep your pet healthy. This isn’t limited to regular visits to a veterinarian. Pets need a good, consistent diet; plenty of fresh water; clean bedding; and exercise. You should always stay current on vaccinations and if you live in an area where ticks and fleas are common, pay attention — just like humans, pets can get Lyme disease. There are optional vaccines you can add if you take your pet into certain settings. I used to go hiking a lot and I liked to take my German shepherd with me. He loved to get out and explore, but he also loved the water. I opted to have him vaccinated regularly for giardia and leptospira. It was inexpensive, and I didn’t worry about the water he was drinking out in the wild. Know your own habits and act accordingly to protect the health of your pet.

I don’t think there is a definitive answer to this question. Some will act on emotion, or site limited studies, and answer with a resounding yes. Others will insist there is no scientific data that proves this hypothesis conclusively. Instead of relying on the experts, I’m just going to give you my personal opinion. I believe the answer is yes. In all fairness, I should disclose my background — I grew up on a farm and as the saying goes you can take the girl out of the farm, but you can’t take the farm out of the girl. I can’t remember a time when we didn’t have animals; cows, horses, pigs, chickens, turkeys, and always a trusted K9 companion and a cat — just to name a few. There was a time when my family had over a hundred rabbits. My experience leads me to believe pets enhance our lives — at least that’s true in my life.

Good pet hygiene is a must. You should always wash your hands after interacting with a pet to prevent the spread of germs. But there are other things you can do to keep both yourself and your pet healthy and happy. First, keep pet supplies out of the kitchen. Always disinfect pet habitats regularly. Never clean your pet supplies in the kitchen sink, that’s where you prepare human food — germs and disease can easily be contaminated and transferred.

Why? For one thing, they get you out of the house and help you maintain a healthy and active life. If you have a pet, you always have a friend. Caring for a pet provides a sense of responsibility and helps develop discipline. You can’t be selfish if you have a pet, they require your time, your attention, and your love.

Dog and cat excrement can contain parasites and germs that can be harmful to people. Be sure to remove this from your yard regularly and properly. Cover your sand box so cats can’t use it as a litter box. Clean cages, litter boxes, and fish tanks regularly to avoid the growth and spread of bacteria and germs. Always supervise young children around pets and teach them to wash their hands after handling a pet.

- 11 -

Over the years I’ve had several amazing companions. Port (Orin Porter Rockwell) was our Border Collie who recently passed away. He was loveable and friendly, full of energy, and he loved to go camping and four-wheeling. This little guy definitely kept us on our toes. We knew he was a dog, he thought he was human.

My little guy passed away a few weeks ago and while I’m not ready for another pet, I miss so many things I took for granted while he was here. I know, eventually, we will bring another furry friend into our home because life is way too boring without one. - 12 -

Our cat, Charlie, was obstinate, liked to cuddle (when it was her idea) and sincerely believed she ran the house. We were just grateful she let us live there. Each had their own personality and quirks, and each brought happiness and companionship we couldn’t have found anywhere else.

April is National Pet Month. Many animal welfare charities hold local events during this time of year. Check your listings, it’s a great time to talk to experts and gather information.

Alex (Sir Alexander), our German shepherd, was loyal, loving and very protective of his humans. He loved to hike, camp, and swim — that dog thought he was a fish and even had his own kiddie pool in the back yard.

If you’re considering a pet, I hope this information helps you determine which pet is the right fit for you and your family. There are so many choices… you better get started.

Long before she delved into the world of fantasy and suspense, Melanie P. Smith served nearly three decades in the Special Operations Division at her local sheriff’s office working with SWAT, Search & Rescue, K9, the Motor Unit, Investigations and the Child Abduction Response Team. She now uses that training and knowledge to create stories that are action-packed, gripping and realistic. When Melanie’s not writing, she can be found riding her Harley, exploring the wilderness or capturing that next great photo. Learn more about Melanie on Mom’s Favorite Reads website: https://moms-favorite-reads.com/moms-authors/melanie-p-smith - 13 -

Heroines of SOE by Hannah Howe

Marie–Thérèse Le Chêne

Gaulle’s Resistance movement. There was great rivalry between the SOE and de Gaulle’s Resistance movement, and a lot of in-fighting, mainly based on rival political beliefs.

Described by fellow agent Peter Churchill as ‘a woman full of humour and common sense’, Marie-Thérèse Le Chêne was born on 20 April 1890 in Sedan, France. A small woman, she possessed grey hair and sharp determined features.

On the night of 3/4 November 1942, Marie-Thérèse landed at Port Miou, near Cassis. She arrived with fellow agents George Starr, Mary Herbert and Odette Sansom and worked alongside her husband as a courier and later as a distributor of political pamphlets and antiGerman leaflets. Towards the end of her period in France, she also conducted sabotage missions on a canal and a railway line.

Aged 52, Marie-Thérèse was the oldest female SOE agent sent to France where she served from 31 October 1942 until 19 August 1943 as a courier, working alongside her husband, Henri Le Chêne, and her brother-in-law, Pierre Le Chêne. Early in World War Two, Marie-Thérèse fled France for London with her husband, Henri. In London, Marie-Thérèse worked as a cook and manager of a hotel. Henri, a British citizen despite his French birth, had previously managed a hotel in Nairobi, Kenya. Interestingly, the Le Chêne family decided to join the SOE, and not Charles de - 14 -

Too tired to join him, Marie-Thérèse hid in friends’ houses until an SOE Hudson evacuated her from a field in Angers on 19 August 1943. Back in Britain, she rejoined her husband who added wryly that he had joined the SOE to get away from his wife, but that she had followed him into the service.

During a visit to Clermont-Ferrand, a town that strongly favoured the Resistance, Marie-Thérèse discovered that the workers at the Michelin Rubber Works were sabotaging production and delivering inferior tyres to the Germans. This not only disrupted the Germans, but also kept the workers in constant employment. In January 1943, with the Gestapo closing in and Pierre captured, Henri fled France via the Pyrenees, the most popular land escape route at the time.

After the war, Marie-Thérèse, Henri and Pierre, who’d managed to escape, returned to France where they opened a hotel in Sainte-Menehould.

Hannah Howe is the author of the Sam Smith Mystery Series, the Ann's War Mystery Series and the #1 international bestseller Saving Grace. Hannah's books are published by Goylake Publishing and distributed through Gardners Books to over 300 outlets worldwide. Her books are available in print, as eBooks and audiobooks, and are being translated into ten languages. Discover more on Mom's Favorite Reads website: https://moms-favorite-reads.com/moms-authors/hannah-howe

- 15 -

Bekah Rain Art Interviewed by Lisa Shambrook Art is important, adding to society in many ways, it provides decoration, talking points, culture, expression, creativity, inspiration and so much more. Bekah Rain Art embraces all of this. About the Artist I’m Bekah, an artist based in South Wales, UK. I primarily use watercolour but I love to work with a variety of mediums including oil and acrylic paints. I have a series of collections that range from celebrating the human body in all its exquisite forms, to channelling the awe inspiring beauty of the natural world.

when I studied art for my A Levels I lost focus on any other subject I was studying and put everything into my art.

My ultimate goal with my art is to inspire others to see the beauty in everything around us.

What made you want to focus on body positivity? I see a lot of nude art that focuses on one body type: skinny, abled, primarily white. I wanted to bring something new to people, every body is beautiful and they deserve to see that in art. I have painted people with different body types, perceived flaws, and disabilities. I only have five pieces in my Strength Within collection available right now but I have many more in the works. This collection is about empowering people to love their bodies.

*****

Last month, Bekah opened her first online shop to offer her art to the world – Bekah Rain Art. Please pop over and take a look and see what inspires you. Her initial pieces work with Body Positivity, Diversity, People, and Nature. Working with watercolour as her main medium, she has also used acrylics, pen, and is currently working on a large oil painting. I asked her a few questions to celebrate her launch: Have you always loved to draw and paint? I have, it’s been one of the few things in my life that has been a constant love of mine. I’ve been drawing since I can remember and in school if you asked me my favourite subject it was always Art. To the point that - 16 -

Do you have a favourite medium to work in?

What does art mean to you?

Watercolour, if I had to pick one medium to use for the rest of my life, it would be watercolour. I love how unpredictable it can be depending on the surface I paint on. I love the loose flow it offers me, I find watercolour inspires me while I am in the process of painting.

That’s a huge question! It’s expression in its purest form, it’s inspiration and beauty. I think people don’t always value it, they consider it to be frivolous, but everything involves art. Look at architecture, television, books, cars and so on, art surrounds us all everyday and I think that is a beautiful thing. Look what we as humans can create! A world without art would be such a flat existence.

I love to experiment with other mediums though, I’m currently working on an Oil on Canvas piece which is slow but it’s turning out beautifully. I’ve learned a lot working on that piece.

*****

You can see more of Bekah’s art on her website: https://www.bekahrainart.com/ I was born and raised in vibrant Brighton, England, and living by the ocean heavily influenced my lyrical and emotional writing. After I had my first of three children we moved to Carmarthen, West Wales, a market town also rich in legend and lore. I began weaving intricate stories inside my head early, but these days my words find themselves bursting forth in the forms of flash fiction, short stories, and novels. I'm a sensory writer and I delve into sensitive subjects that will lift your spirit and steal your heart, and I conjure worlds of fantasy and post-apocalypse which will ignite your imagination. http://www.lisashambrook.com/ - 17 -

Wednesday’s Child by Laura Thomas

Wednesday's Child By Laura Thomas Published by Olympia Publishers 25-02-2021, Paperback, 395 pages

A captivating and moving story, set during the Second World War, portraying the extremely harsh living conditions endured by those on the home front. The story follows the life and loves of Violet, and some very tragic events that beset her young life. She lost her parents at a very young age and was taken in and brought up by an elderly neighbour. At age fourteen, she obtained work at a factory and forged some lifelong friendships, which played an important role in her future. Violet joined the army at the age of seventeen, where she was exposed to the many horrors of war on the beaches of Dunkirk. She married Stephen, a Regimental Sergeant Major in the army, but his many deployments to North Africa meant important family milestones were missed. His family supported Violet during his absence, but the question was, would he return from the war and would Violet finally find happiness?

About the Author I was born and raised in Manchester before studying for a Forensic Science degree at Staffordshire University. I eventually moved to South Wales where I met my husband and became a full time mum to my three children, Emilie, Morgan and Osian. Health issues forced me to rethink my path in life and reawakened my long, lost passion for writing.

- 18 -

The Story Behind the Story Being the youngest of all of her grandchildren, I spent a great deal of my teenage years with my grandmother in her later stages of Parkinsons Disease, and for the first time since the war years, she was able to speak to me not just of her own memories and experience, but also my grandfather’s war duties and experiences during the war, something that he was never able to do.

Wednesday’s Child, a work of historical fiction, is largely the story of my late grandmother, Dorothy Violet Massey. Abandoned as a child and brought up by an elderly neighbour, this was a common occurrence in post Great War Britain, with few men returning from the front lines and the perils of child birth, not to mention the poor state of the fractured economy. Violet’s harsh upbringing was also typical of the time, and it was only after her passing in 2001 that we, her family, found out that she had six aunties, none of whom knew of her existence and neither did she know of them. My grandmother had very few happy memories to speak of from her younger years, and, just like Violet in the book, only found her first real taste of friendship when she left school to work at a factory.

It was the experiences portrayed in the book, particularly those of my Grandfather’s and the loss of so many of his friends and comrades, that led to both of my grandparents dedicating their entire lives to the Royal British Legion, to raising money to support those affected by war. My grandmother attended her last remembrance day parade in her wheelchair with three of her fellow ATS friends, whilst my grandfather marched the mile and a half as Parade Marshall every year until he was ninety years of age. He always said that the day he couldn’t do the parade would be his time to go. He passed away four weeks after his last parade.

With the formation of the Auxillary Territorial Services in 1938, or ATS as it was known, my grandmother saw this as the taste of freedom that she had so desperately longed for, an escape from the gruelling mundane routine that she, and many others like her at the time endured on a daily basis to merely survive. For Violet, this would be her freedom. So, like many others, she lied about her age and left to join the army with her only possessions being the clothes that she was wearing.

I wanted to write this book from my grandmother’s perspective as little is said of the women that fought alongside the men, yet my grandmother’s experiences were synonymous of the time in which she lived.

I was born in Manchester and lived there until I left to attend Staffordshire University where I obtained my BSc Forensic Science. In 2006 I moved to the South Wales valleys where I worked until health dictated otherwise after the birth of my second child. I still reside in the beautiful valleys with my husband and three children, and am now lucky enough to be able to devote my time to writing, around family commitments and health issues.

- 19 -

Under the Emerald Sky by Juliane Weber Travel back to 19th century Ireland in this gripping tale If you enjoy historical fiction with a dash of romance and a pinch of intrigue, then Under the Emerald Sky is for you. Set in 19th century Ireland among the stark contrasts that separate the rich few from the plentiful poor, Under the Emerald Sky is a tale of love and betrayal in a land teetering on the brink of disaster – the Great Famine that would forever change the course of Irish history. About the book Ireland, 1843. Alannah O’Neill is feeling trapped. Under the thumb of her controlling brother, she finds herself contemplating the meaninglessness of her existence. Her life takes an abrupt turn with the arrival of the Englishman Quinton Williams on the neighbouring estate. Alannah feels drawn to Quin but knows that her brother hates the English and all they stand for. So she keeps her growing relationship with Quin a secret. Can Alannah and Quin find happiness amid those who dream of ridding Ireland of her English oppressors? How the book came about The first time I ever thought about writing a book was during my studies. Not much was to happen with my hypothetical novel for several years, though, as I waited for inspiration to come. I knew only that if ever I were actually to write a book, it would be a historical fiction novel, but not when or where the story would take place.

Several years later my husband and I decided to move with our children from South Africa, where I had lived for most of my life, to Germany, where I was born. And suddenly, I wanted nothing more than to write that book! Looking for inspiration for the historical setting, I stumbled upon the Irish Potato Famine, a subject that I dimly recognised from a long-distant history lesson. Well, I thought, why not? I liked the idea of the 19th century; I liked the idea of Ireland, with its luscious green hills and its myths and legends; and I liked the idea of writing about something that – as far as I knew – hadn’t been written about a thousand times before. And that was that. The idea for Under the Emerald Sky was born. I thoroughly enjoyed researching and writing the book, and I hope you enjoy reading it! – And learn a little about history too. Get the book on Amazon now! https://bookgoodies.com/a/B08LSC6HN3 Did you know? US President Joe Biden is the descendent of Irish emigrants, who fled from Ireland to the USA to escape the devastating effects of the Great Famine.

Juliane is a scientist by training. She holds degrees in physiology and zoology, including a PhD in physiology. During her studies she realised, however, that her passion lay not in conducting scientific research herself, but in writing about it. Thus began her career as a medical writer, where she took on all manner of writing and editing tasks, in the process honing her writing skills, until she finally plucked up the courage to write her first historical novel, Under the Emerald Sky. Juliane was born in Germany but spent most of her life in South Africa. She now lives with her husband and her two sons in Hamelin, Germany, the town made famous by the story of the Pied Piper. www.julianeweber.com - 20 -

Nobody Here is Actually Real by Ross G. Homer Friend Request Accepted: Post comments on Henry Harold’s timeline. He looked interesting so why not give it a try? Henry Harold looked to be in his mid-40’s, tall with a good build. His profile photos showed him on a beach with a nice tan wearing baggy, multi-colored trunks. Additional pictures showed him standing in the snow with cross-country skis and wearing a bright red knit hat. His shoulder length, sandy blonde hair spilled out from under that hat. He had sexy curls, too. I kinda liked that.

years. As soon as I closed the store, I drove out to the coffee shop. I was a few minutes early, so I went in and found a table by the window. The view was spectacular with spring in full force. The days were getting warmer, while the nights were still a little chilly. It was one of my favorite times of year. I waited and did a little YourPlacing, chatting with my friends around the country. After a while I realized I was still alone. I checked my watch again and saw that my ‘date’ was now thirty minutes late. This is not a good way to start a relationship.

I hadn’t had a date in ages although I’d been told I was fairly attractive. After my divorce a number of years ago, I tried the on-line dating scene once. I found it a total waste of my time. Maybe on YourPlace.com I could meet someone in an entirely different setting; get to know him and who knows? I’d heard of people meeting like this and actually getting married. Of course, it helped if you lived in the same town.

I messaged him and got no answer. I gave him another thirty minutes and if he was still a no show, then screw him. Figuratively, of course. He didn’t and I left angry.

I told him that I worked as a store manager for a chic boutique and loved biking and canoeing. He taught music at the local high school, skied, hiked and kayaked. That wasn’t surprising given the number of creeks and rivers in our part of the state. Turned out he lived in the next town up the valley. They get far more snow and have amazing bike trails. I knew that because I biked there many times.

When I got home, I kicked off my shoes, poured a glass of wine, and then plopped on the couch. I hadn’t been stood up since high school and it really pissed me off. Because of my red hair, or so I’m told, I have a pretty good temper and at the moment it was running close to full tilt. I jumped up and got my laptop with the intention of unfriending this asshole.

I wasn’t in a hurry to start dating though, having been burned a couple of times before. When he suggested coffee, my children, well two of them, were excited for me. My twin daughters, fifteen, loved the idea of me dating again. My son, seventeen, was busy skateboarding and sort of dismissed mom dating as a waste of his time.

As I glanced at the mirror in the living room, a stranger looked back at me and stopped me in my tracks. That woman had honey blonde hair and it was long! What? That certainly wasn’t possible. I’m a blazing red head.

We were going to meet at an Evangelina’s Bistro on the north end of town. I dressed for work: short blue skirt, white blouse, black leather jacket, and three-inch heels. During the day I found myself becoming more excited than I’d been in a couple of

Well, I was angry and tired and stood up. Not a great combination to start with and maybe something from part of misspent youth was flashing back on me. Wouldn’t be the first time. - 21 -

the little mall but this Evangelina’s was closed.

I got my laptop, opened it, and went to my page. Strange, I thought, he wasn’t there. Not even in the Search YourPlace section. Now I was worried. I was only thirty-seven and as far as I knew, too young for dementia or something.

I was being jacked around. When I got home, his account was there and a message apologizing for not meeting. Something had come up. Right. His wife, for instance?

I returned to the couch and had a long swallow of my wine. As I thought about it, it occurred to me that maybe I was being played for some reason. Now I was really pissed. Why would anyone want to screw around with me?

Next morning, my bras were now too big! My breasts had gotten smaller. No way. My pants were snug but…too short? “What the fu…” I never swore but this time I couldn’t control it. My daughter, Holly, came running in.

I posted a couple of scathing comments about people who did that sort of thing, signed off and had another glass of wine. My girls and I made dinner, then I took a shower and crashed. This was just too weird for words and maybe sleep would help.

“Mom! What’s the matter?” She hugged me and didn’t make any comments about the fact I was two inches taller. I was six feet. My god! To think I’d bitched since the eighth grade about being five-ten. But Holly didn’t say a thing. And my damn hair was brunette now. She didn’t say anything about that, either. Somebody was messing with me and I didn’t like it. Or maybe I was dreaming. Mushroom pizza before bed was always a bad idea.

The next morning, I dressed for work. Something wasn’t right. I know that I’m busty, have a nice butt and excellent legs. Lord knows I work on them enough. To my immense surprise, my bras, all of them, were too small! Now I know my cycles and know that my breasts can go up half a cup once a month. It wasn’t that time yet and they were at least a full cup too large and that was just wrong. But my hair was red. Well, I was pushing forty so maybe hormonal changes were causing me to imagine things?

But I dressed anyway and wondered how it was being done. Work went fine and there were no messages from Henry. Interesting. That night, as I sipped my whiskey neat, I wondered why someone would be doing anything with me. As far as I knew I was honest and nice to the store’s customers, I tipped well and had a smile and kind word for everyone.

I held that thought until I pulled on my designer panties. They were too big! What? That definitely wasn’t right. The last time I wore them, exactly a week ago, they fit my ass perfectly. Now it was like they’d jumped up about two sizes. Angry, I pinned up the excess, growled at the kids, traffic, and life in general and went to work. I tried not to think about it.

I took another sip. Then it hit me. Whiskey? I hated whiskey. What? The. Hell? I took a shower and felt better when I got out but was still worried. I considered talking about this with Holly and Lorraine, her sister, about future care for me. Bobby was with friends that night.

At lunch I received a message from Henry on my phone app asking if I wanted to try again. I am willing to give most people another chance, so I replied with ‘sure.’ Same place, same time.

I decided to pass on discussing this with the twins just now. I felt better after the shower so why scare them when it was obviously something else? What, I hadn’t a clue. But all kinds of terrible things went through my mind as I tried to sleep.

He didn’t show, again. Knowing about kids trying to act grown up or men pretending to be women or women pretending to be men, ‘catfishing’ I think it’s called, I carefully scanned the cafe. The place was practically empty and nobody was paying the least bit of attention to me. Then I thought about trolls and stalkers. I checked the parking lot. Mine was the only car in front in all directions. Everything in

Dressing for work the next morning I found that everything fit. My underwear was the right size, my blue denim skirt was exactly right on my butt and I was back to five-ten. Maybe I’d had some kind of - 22 -

Now I was becoming very frightened. I ran to the bathroom, just making the toilet…avocado colored? Seriously? And vomited hard until I was into dry heaves. Lorraine ran in and comforted me until I could stand and get into the shower. She helped me undress…all my underwear today was blue. Blue? I distinctly remembered wearing pink to work. This stuff was see-through too. I don’t have anything that transparent because while I may look pretty hot, my underwear was always somewhat conservative. Hell, I was wearing a blue thong!

weird reaction to something I’d eaten after all. As my kids would say, I tended to keep things in the refrigerator until they developed intelligence. As I drove to the shop and went in, the smell of all those flowers hit me hard.

When I was done with the shower, she wrapped me in a towel and led me, like a sick old lady, to the bed. I felt strange. I looked strange. My body was doing some odd things. I felt as if I was being manipulated by some cosmic force. Lorraine stood there, looking at me and crying. For some reason, I could suddenly see through her eyes and I wasn’t there, on the bed.

I puttered around before I realized that I sold expensive clothes to rich women. Not flowers. I worried about it all day but seemed to have no problems at all making floral arrangements. The owner was the right person with the right name as was the name of the shop.

<<<<>>>>

“Henry, you asshole. Would you please stop screwing around with my characters?”

That night I sipped my rum-coke and wondered about it. I’d hardly fallen at all in most of my life and the one time I could remember was out of a tree when I was twelve. I’d broken my arm but didn’t hit my head. I’d never been in a car accident and never had a bike crash. Besides, I always wore a helmet.

“Bite me Harold,” he said as he looked at the screen. “Mom and Dad won’t let me mess with games like this at home. And I liked her better tall with the big boobs.” “You perv,” Harold replied. “She looked better like she was. Well, I thought she was nice. You didn’t even make her ass look right either. Let’s just delete all of it and start over.”

Rum and Coke? I looked at the glass and carefully set it down. I got up and realized my house wasn’t right. Where was that nifty little wine rack I’d had for several years? The one I’d painted brick red? My pot rack that hung over the island…that wasn’t there, either.

“Sounds like a plan to me. I could never get her right anyway.”

Ross G. Homer was born in Florida some years ago. He grew in locations all across the south and eventually ended up in California. He spent a couple of years going to college before joining the Air Force as a photographer. After spending ten somewhat interesting years in the Air Force, he settled in Alaska where he worked in a variety of occupations before retiring and dedicating his energies to his life-long interest in creating fantasy and fiction. He is the author of a wide range of genres: sexy romantic action-adventure, thrillers, mysteries, science fiction, and fantasy. - 23 -

Escape to Simplicity by Sylva Fae I'm suffering from experience! I've reached the age where no films wow me - I know all the plots and have seen all the characters. I can usually guess ‘whodunnit’ well before the grand reveal, mysteries are no longer that mysterious, thrillers don’t thrill, and I only get a ‘jump scare’ because of the horror soundtrack. Similarly, days out at supposedly 'amazing' attractions are only thrilling when watching through the eyes of my children. Sadly, I've lost the ability to enjoy these things for myself because I’ve seen it all before. In addition to that, the scenarios my own imagination can conjure up, are invariably more exciting than what is presented to me. Instead, I gain my enjoyment from seeing the reactions of my children, but I do wish for something to make me feel the way I once did. When you pay for entertainment, whether it be a day out, a trip to the cinema, or just watching a movie at home, you have an expectation that you have paid to be entertained. I rarely feel that the money spent was worth the experience or find that my expectations are met. I am seriously suffering

from a modern-day curse of having experienced too much. …Except when I go to the woods. The absence of 'entertainment', of noise, of paying for an experience, is the very thing my soul needs to recapture its magical sparkle. I marvel in the healing power of simplicity, relish the invigorating rush of the breeze that refreshes my mind, and calms my soul, and I soak up inspiration from the beauty of existence. Drifting through the trees, I have no purpose, no expectation other than just to be there. Whereas entertainment provided by technology bombards and overwhelms the senses, the woodland is a gentle balm that simultaneously calms and invigorates every sense in equal measure. The scent of campfire smoke drifting on the breeze mingles with the pine needles and the earthy aromas as my wandering feet disturb the leaf matter. The mulch of leaves blending into cool earth is soft underfoot. Occasionally, I’ll brush my hand over dry ferns, or stop to feel the rough bark of a tree. Overhead, I hear the buzzards cry, watching as we wander through their hunting ground. The woodland is peaceful but certainly not silent. The background buzz and hum of electrical equipment is replaced by the buzz and hum of insects and birds. The crackle and rustle of my footsteps blends with the rustle of leaves as woodland creatures weave through - 24 -

foliage, hidden from view. And of course, the sights are as refreshing to my eyes as the spring breeze is to my skin. Where I live, the first dainty snowdrops, are the signal for new growth to begin. The drab winter hedgerows are carpeted with purples and yellows as crocuses and daffodils push through the leaf litter. And overhead, the stark silhouettes of bare branches soften as delicate buds and leaves dance along the branches. These are experiences that never cease to wow me and they are freely available. Next time you leave the house, just take a moment to enjoy the escape to simplicity, that only nature can provide.

Sylva Fae is a married mum of three from Lancashire, England. She has spent twenty years teaching literacy to adults with learning difficulties and disabilities, and now works from home as a children’s writer and illustrator. Sylva has published several children’s books and also writes a blog, Sylvanian Ramblings. Her debut book, Rainbow Monsters won the Chanticleer Best in Category award. Discover more about Sylva on Mom’s Favorite Reads website: https://moms-favorite-reads.com/moms-authors/sylva-fae/ - 25 -

Butterflies & Caterpillars by Sylva Fae

- 26 -

https://moms-favorite-reads.com/moms-authors/sylva-fae/

- 27 -

A Brave New World? by Grant Leishman As we begin the long road back to “normal” and start to come out of these lockdown conditions caused by the pandemic, I wonder how many of the readers have had deep thoughts about the direction of their lives. Change, fear, and doubt about the future can certainly trigger thoughts of, where am I going and what am I trying to achieve? I know those thoughts full well, as I went through a similar selfexamination some years back. I’d like to recount the story of my attempt to create a “brave new world” for myself in the hope that it may inspire someone to begin their own journey of self-discovery. *

I was nervous, bloody nervous, if the truth be known but I was also determined. I'd made a right cock-up of things up to that point and I figured it was about time to make something good happen in my life. Deep breath and walk; you can do this, Grant.

Just over ten years ago, (March 29th 2011, if you want to be exact about it) at 9.30 in the morning, I walked through the automatic doors at Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila and into the unknown. Oh, it wasn't like I hadn't been to The Philippines before, I'd been here numerous times, although not for almost eleven years.

I knew I always had a fallback position (a plan B, if you like), if things didn't work out but that wasn't something I even wanted to contemplate, in my worst nightmares; running back to New Zealand with my tail between my legs and the expected taunts from family and friends; "told you so", "I always said it was a dumb idea Grant", and worst of all actually, the looks of sorrow and pity I would get from my nearest and dearest. No, I knew this was probably my last shot at happiness, at making something work in my life and I wasn't going to give it up without a fight.

Nope, it was the unknown for a very different reason. I had left my life in New Zealand behind; kissed my seventeen-year-old son and fourteen-year-old daughter, goodbye and boarded a flight bound for Manila, with little possessions and bugger-all money, just a burning desire, at 51-years-old, to try to rebuild a life that had been shattered by some bad and calamitous decisions.

I'd been friends with Thess for over four years, online, before I decided to take that ultimate step and come here. It had been something that had been brewing in my mind for a long time but it was probably my 50th birthday that crystallized it and made me decide it wasn't just a good idea, it was essential. As we all do, probably, on these annual milestones, I’d sat down

Little did I know, as I took a deep breath at the top of the ramp that leads down to the waiting area what the next ten years would hold in store for me. I was about to meet, in person, for the first time, some of the most important people in my brave, new, world; my future wife and two of her children. - 28 -

and reviewed where the hell I was in my life. My son was about to head away to University and I would be left in a small town in southern New Zealand, essentially alone (my daughter having already gone to live with her mother in another City). If ever I was going to try something bold, exciting and new, now was the time. I was well aware of the relentlessly ticking clock and figured this might be my one and only shot left, at making something happen. I decided right there and then that come hell or high water, I was going to give this a good crack.

long wondered if our first meeting would prove to be awkward, uncomfortable and filled with long, pregnant silences. I need not have worried. She dropped the hands of the two young girls she was with and literally flung herself into my arms, kissing me intensely and with more passion than I had ever thought possible. Oblivious to the people bustling all around us, we clung to each other like two castaways who had spent years alone, on opposite sides of the same desert island and had finally, somehow, discovered each other. Nothing and nobody existed in those few moments except two love-starved people seeking the long-awaited succor from each other. We've discussed this moment, since and we are both of the same opinion; it was in that split second when we finally found each other, that March morning ten years ago that we knew we had found our life partners. For me, I felt a surge of joy and utter contentment, a feeling that had been sadly lacking from my life for so long. I knew, intuitively, I had found my soul-mate and everything was going to be forever changed from that point on.

So, there I was, standing on the apron of the waiting area at Ninoy Aquino Airport, surrounded by bustling people, yet somehow all alone. I knew Thess was around somewhere as I'd had a text from her earlier, in the baggage collection area but I couldn't see her and as the minutes ticked by, I began to worry, began to wonder. Shit, this wasn't how it was supposed to be; this wasn't how I'd imagined our meeting, a million times in my dreams and fantasies. "Hi! Finally!" I turned toward the voice and although it sounds clichéd, my mouth dropped open and I felt my eyes begin to water. There she was, my internet friend, my soon to be lover, my future wife; she was even more beautiful and more stunning in reality than any picture or cam could ever do her justice. I had

The last ten years have thrown us many challenges (never mind a year’s lockdown – so far – from the pandemic) but we're still answering them and dealing with them. There are only two certainties in life, they say; death and taxes. Well, for me, there are - 29 -

three – death, taxes, and the love we both share. Whatever the trials and tribulations that may come our way now, and in the future, we will face them together, until there is only one of us left. That is the certainty for me. So much has changed in our lives over the ten years but one thing I know without a shadow of a doubt, is that I am a much better person than the lost, lonely, 51-year-old BOY, who walked off that plane and into the arms of the most amazing woman I have ever been privileged enough to meet... let alone love. I am now a full-time author and editor and I have only one person to thank for steering me onto my true path in life and that is her; my best friend, my confidant, my lover, my wife, and my other half. Thank you darling for finding me and saving me from myself.

I have a picture of two of my biggest critics and detractors over the years; but who also were my two biggest supporters in this life, my wonderful parents, taped to the wall above the computer. They're both, sadly, gone now but every so often I look up at their smiling faces, wink and say; "well Mum, I got this one right!"

MARAMING, MARAMING, SALAMAT PO! So, here I am, ten years on and has it been a brave, new, world that we've created for ourselves? Well, we're still working bloody hard on creating our brave new world but I'll tell you something for nothing; it's a wonderfully happy, vibrant, new world I now live in. It's not easy, in fact, at times it's damn hard but it is MINE and THESS' WONDERFUL NEW WORLD and we wouldn't change it for anything. We will celebrate our tenth wedding anniversary on May 9th this year and since we already have plans for what we want to do on our silver wedding anniversary in fifteen-years-time, we each have every incentive to stay hale and healthy for each other.

I swear I can almost hear her voice whispering back; "finally, Grant, finally... yes you did!"

Grant Leishman is a fifty-nine-year-old full-time author and editor, domiciled in the beautiful island of The Philippines. After careers in finance and journalism, Grant finally found his true bliss in life, writing. He is happily married to Thess and they have two daughters, Rose and Angeline. Discover more about Grant on the Mom's Favorite Reads website https://moms-favorite-reads.com/moms-authors/grant-leishman - 30 -

Life by Stan Phillips

Life unfolding along its precarious road promises neither grief nor glory.

For life is just that - life.

It offers neither tears nor laughter.

And it promises nothing save a rich parcel of ups and downs.

Nor joy

Highs and lows,

Sorrow.

As it's strange sequence of events are stitched onto the tapestry that tells our stories.

Sadness

And it is not those events that tell the tale,

Or happiness.

Rather it is our reaction to them.

But maybe there is a touch of all these things in our lives as time wends its way from here to there.

Stan Phillips is an 80 year old poet, musical podcast maker, part-time wannabe male model, and occasional stand up comedian. “I used to be a psychotherapist/counsellor when I had an honest job. I was born into prewar London, and attended 17 schools (my father believed they couldn’t hit a moving target) and I eventually finished up here in Ireland. Still wondering what I will be when I grow up — but enjoying writing my quirky poetry as I do so.” Discover more about Stan on Mom’s Favorite Reads website: https://moms-favorite-reads.com/moms-authors/stan-phillips - 31 -

The Danger of Indifference by Father Ian Maher The story of the rich man and Lazarus is a striking lesson about indifference to those who are in need, and the fact that there are consequences for both the haves and the have nots. This is certainly something worth reflecting on during this time of corona virus. Lazarus, we are told, struggled to survive, receiving nothing from the kindness or generosity of the rich man, but scraping out an existence from what fell from the abundance of the rich man’s table. Jesus does not say in the story whether the rich man was a cruel or unkind person, only that he lived his life in luxury and was seemingly oblivious to the plight of the poor man who was living in plain sight. In the picture painted in the gospel, both Lazarus and the rich man die and experience very different destinies. The poor man is carried away by the angels to be with Abraham, presumably in heaven, and the rich man finds himself in Hades. One is close to God, one is separated from God. With all his worldly wealth stripped away, the rich man sees Lazarus at a distance and cries out to him for help, only to be told by Abraham that it is too late for him.

The gulf has been set and there is no way back. He has no way of putting right his failure to respond to the need that was right in front of him, nor of warning his brothers against making the same mistake. It is a vivid story and one that some have used to argue for belief in a literal hell. I think that is a mistake and that the striking images are more about prompting the listener to think about what they might do in the here and now to make a difference to the needy and less fortunate whom we come across in our day-to-day life. Jesus often used hyperbole to make a point. Surely, hell for the rich man was in recognising, too late, the good that he could have accomplished in life, not least in reaching out to Lazarus whose suffering had become invisible to him?

- 32 -

with our own worries and fears, fail to see the needs of the vulnerable in our streets and neighbourhoods.

This can be true for us as individuals, churches, communities and nations. We can miss the chance to meet the need that is right in front of us. The fact is that the opportunities that we miss to help the people who are overlooked, ignored and pushed to the margins – and yet are within our power to help – may not come our way again, leaving us with desperate regrets.

So let’s keep our eyes and ears open and be aware of the practical acts of care and kindness that are within our power to offer, and ensure there is more than enough compassion to go around. Sometimes, a need to which we could make a real difference might be right in front of us, just as Lazarus was at the gate of the rich man.

With the coronavirus pandemic continuing to affect people across the world, and here in our own country, it is beholden upon all of us to be aware and remain alert to the needs of those who might otherwise, like Lazarus, remain unseen and unheard, but to whose lives we are able to make some small difference.

We remain, of course, limited by the pandemic restrictions but there is still much we can do for others in need. May we not miss our chance but be vigilant about the danger of indifference.

I’m not suggesting that we are living in the lap of luxury like the rich man in the story, but we might just in our relative comfort while fit and well, and maybe preoccupied

I am a priest and minor canon at Sheffield Cathedral. My last post prior to retirement from stipendiary ministry was as the Multifaith Chaplaincy Coordinator and Anglican Chaplain at Sheffield Hallam University, where I worked for 12 years. https://imaherblog.wordpress.com/ Twitter @IanMaher7 - 33 -

One Good Lick by Dalton Ruer Blood coursed through her veins like water flowing through the mighty Nile River during rainy season. She rounded the corner onto Elm Street and her heart strained to keep pace with her legs as she was now in a full-on sprint. Bobbing, dodging, and ducking around pedestrians as though she was a highly paid player in the National Football League seeking the end zone. Her father would have been proud if he had seen this, Lord knows the man had never been proud of her for anything else.

GOING!" Her mind constantly echoed. The obstacles today were pretty much a metaphor for her entire life. The chant was nothing she hadn't heard a million times, so she pressed on.

Although all her other senses disagreed, she listened to the faint whisper of her sixth sense saying, "go in here." She pulled the door with such force that it gained the attention of nearly the entire lunch crowd at Provino's. You would have sworn she was an auctioneer the way her eyes frantically darted the restaurant. Searching eye contact. Searching some sort of bid of information that would help her. Finally, one of her former real estate clients raised his hand and pointed towards the back.

"There he is. Just a few more steps." Jeanie's brain barely murmured to her as though a student unsure of the answer they were about to give. Fortunately, Bear had found the remnants of a hot dog that Justin O'Brien had thrown on the ground. The boy was none too happy that his father had given him the mustard covered food. Everyone in town knew that Justin loved ketchup. Fortunately for Bear, and Jeanie, his father's mind was elsewhere today. The distinctive "click" of the thick metal leash clasp engaging drowned out her heavy panting. Although, not for long. "Bad boy!" was all that Jeanine Andrews said to Bear as she began the long walk back to her small loft apartment above old man Johnson's hardware store. As it always does, the fatigue and emotional distress had taken its toll on Jeanie. Her normally exaggerated stride was now reduced to little more than a slow one foot in front of the other straight line walk across a balance beam. Bear seemed to match the pace as one might if they were being checked for a DUI by the police.

Too tired to even say thank you, she immediately returned to her running back ways. Weaving around tables, nearly missing a waiter carrying a tray full of the day's specials. "Boom" the back door sounded as she crashed through it. The lack of oxygen was finally too much for her and she bent over. Her hands went to her knees as she gasped for air as though an athlete that had forgotten their inhaler. "Think Damnit!" Her brain shouted at her in the way her father had so many times. She was frozen in place as exhaustion had replaced explosiveness. Like a marine snapping to attention, she found herself suddenly upright. Her brain had quickly transformed the clanging of the trash cans around the alley and wailed at her again … "THAT WAY!"

Once inside her apartment she slammed the door. Her lungs, like a freshly filled balloon, let out only 2 words "BAD BOY!" She unclicked the leash and laid it on the counter. Oh, who am I kidding, she slammed it on the counter. It's hard to imagine a Saint Bernard slithering, but I'm telling you, that's exactly how that poor boy made his way to his bed.

Her elusiveness eluded her momentarily, and she tripped on the wheel stop of the last parking lot. She stumbled but kept going. "Keep going. KEEP - 34 -

Jeanie was quite a sight herself. Rigidly moving around and mumbling to herself. Back and forth. Forth and back along her post she paced. The scowl never leaving her face just like a Queen's Guard at Buckingham Palace. "Get a dog she said" "It will be good for you she said" "You need a companion she said." She paused momentarily as the memory of the previous Sunday flooded her mind as Katrina had done to New Orleans. She walked in the doors of the humane shelter not knowing what she would do. It was as dull, and gray and sterile as she had expected. But as she approached the counter the overpowering smell of Tom Ford, "Bitter Peach" perfume certainly wasn't it. "Carmen is that you?????" She asked, legitimately puzzled, to the women behind the counter doing paperwork. It was now Carmen who was bewildered as she turned and answered "Yes." She'd recognized Jeanie's slight southern twang and didn't like this situation one bit. "Wait for it … wait for it … " Carmen knew what Jeanie was about to say "…. and here it comes." "Why are you working here?" Jeanie asked, as though her mind was in a fog. No longer bewildered, and now seemingly snarky Carmen snapped back "Because I quit selling real estate. Just like you did. Obviously!" The apprehension and fear in Bear's eyes finally caught up to her and she snapped out of her selfinduced coma. He was shaking as someone with untreated tremors might. Just as he had been when she walked through the Humane Society to choose her companion. All the other dogs were jumping and yapping, but his loneliness and longing resonated with her.

Though he had only been her companion for 9 days, that look tugged at her heart. His shaking tugged at her heart. Suddenly she realized she had treated him the way her father had treated her.

"He's made such great strides trusting me, and now this." The guilt of breaking Bear's spirit overtook her. She wept on the floor beside him as she had for days after her MiMaw passed away. Gradually she began rubbing her knuckles into the area surrounding his ear the way he seemed to like. Then massaging his shoulder blades. After what seemed to her like her 100'th "I'm sorry" she could finally feel the tension in is body subside. Suddenly as her Pink Cashmere polished nails combed the fur of his massive chin, Bear apologize as well. She could feel his tongue tentative lick the back of her hand. Then another. Then it came, one good lick right on her cheek. Followed by another really wet, really sloppy one. The kind of nasty, slobbery lick that separates dog lovers from the rest of the sane world. Time seemed stand still as the saline filled, outward tears, of both were gone. They played and wrestled on the floor like 2 bear cubs whose momma was trying to catch dinner. As Jeanie finally stood, inward pain set in. Not in her knees or hips like an old person, the kind of pain only felt by a daughter who had never forgiven her father. For in that moment she realized that she wanted the joy that Bear was feeling after forgiving her. She just wasn't sure how. For she had killed him by accident when she finally defended herself 6 years ago against his abuse. Fortunately, the sadness was quickly gone as her brain also gave her one good lick. "Millie was right … again … just like always." What on earth would she do without Millie? What on earth would she do without Bear?

- 35 -

Contributions by Hannah Howe I ordered a bed from IKEA the other day. They sent me a tree trunk and a saw.

A friend said to me, “The next time you receive a call from an unknown number, answer it and say, ‘The job is done, but there’s blood everywhere.’ Then hang up.” I tried it. Trouble is, the caller phoned back and said, “Good, I have another job for you...”

Pro tip, an exercise for people who are out of shape: Begin with a five-pound potato bag in each hand. Extend your arms straight out from your sides, hold them there for a full minute, then relax. After a few weeks, move up to two ten-pound potato bags. Then try 50-pound potato bags. Eventually, try a 100 -pound potato bag in each hand and hold your arms straight for a full minute. Once you feel comfortable at that level, put a potato in each bag.

I’m not saying that I’m getting old, but the other day I went to an antique auction and three people offered bids for me.

Pro tip for husbands. The best way to remember your wife’s birthday is to forget it once.

Over dinner, I explained the health benefits of a colorful meal to my family. "The more colors, the more variety of nutrients," I told them. Pointing to our food, I asked, "How many different colors do you see?" "Six," said my daughter. "Seven if you count the burned parts." - 36 -

April Dilemma by Maressa Mortimer

Should I go out? I will need my fluffy coat, it is chilly. Even though the sky is blue, no cloud to block the watery sun. Maybe I should do gardening; do some digging, some pulling weeds. Some planning for the start of Spring or simply go for a long walk in the valley. Then there’s the way back up and it might still be muddy. Cold too, in the shady parts, and my boots will rub. Maybe another day, when it’s warmer. Should I tidy up outside? Get the garden chairs out, straighten the tables. Soon it will be warm, the sunlight bright And I will move my office into the garden.

Maybe I could...I look again. The sunlight no longer golden on the grass. I glance at the sky, no blue, just a grey stain blocking out the watery sun. The rain arrives as, with a sigh, I put my leather boots away, I hang my coat, picking up my coffee. I’ll be working indoors today.

My name is Maressa Mortimer, and I’m Dutch. I live in the beautiful Cotswolds, England, with my husband who is a pastor. We have four (adopted) children. I’m a homeschool mum, so my writing has to be done in the evening, when peace and quiet descends on our house once more. I love exploring questions of faith using novels, as it helps me to see what faith looks like in daily life. My debut novel, Sapphire Beach, was published December 2019. My latest novel, Walled City, launched on December 5th and I’m nearing the first draft of its sequel!Visit my website

www.vicarioushome.com to buy signed copies from the shop. - 37 -

Genealogy— Researching Your Family Tree by Hannah Howe records. Records can include census and electoral rolls, birth, marriage and death registers, wills, military, immigration and travel, school and business directories, plus newspaper archives.

It’s possible to construct your family tree with pen and paper using paper records, such as birth, marriage and death certificates, and parish registers. However, with the Internet widely available it makes sense for genealogists to take advantage of this vast resource.

It’s possible to discover a ‘gateway’ ancestor, someone who will connect your Victorian ancestors with noble families from the medieval period. On my tree, Barbara Aubery is such an ancestor. Along with her husband, John Bevan, she was a founder of the Welsh Tract in Pennsylvania. My Aubrey line stretches back to William the Conqueror. Indeed, I’ve been fortunate to discover many gateway ancestors and their lines all stretch back to medieval times. Through Welsh genealogies some of my branches stretch back to 4 AD (!)

To develop your family tree on the Internet you might decide to explore a hosting site. There are many hosting sites available. These include Ancestry, Find My Past and MyHeritage. I have been with Ancestry for over ten years so will concentrate on their site. Hosting sites allow you to collaborate with other genealogists and potentially to discover living relatives. The sites contain a catalogue of records and on Ancestry hints direct you to these

- 38 -

The profile page of my 9 x great grandmother Barbara Aubrey displays her timeline, immediate family and links to sources. As my research develops, I will add more detail to Barbara’s profile, including pictures and her life story. The green leaves on my tree represent hints for further research while the black arrows lead to more ancestors. Sometimes, the historical record dries up, but once you connect with your sixteenth century ancestors it should be possible to reach back even further. Of course, hosting sites like Ancestry require a subscription, so you need to be certain that genealogy really is for you. Some sites offer pay-as-you-go and monthly options, which are good if you want to discover how these sites work and how they could assist you in your research.

- 39 -

Creation & Innovation Interviewed by Sylva Fae I have always been a creative soul and enjoy learning new crafts. While I love dabbling in different crafty activities, and encouraging my children to explore their own creativity, I’m just a happy amateur. I am inspired by those who do master these crafts to such a degree that they are able to run a creative business.

fascinating, but I was particularly taken with her stained-glass hangings.

This last year of lockdowns and home schooling has been challenging for most, but it has also given people time to do things they wouldn’t ordinarily have had time for. In addition, those who have a creative career have had to find innovative new ways to do business.

I've always been crafty and loved art since childhood, it is a family trait, my mum taught me to embroider, draw and paint. I picked up my needle in the first lockdown and started cross stitching again. This then led me to needle felting when I found a kit at the back of a cupboard while looking for sewing supplies. This developed into a new hobby, that developed into a business much to my surprise.

Sally Squirrel Sews – Cross stitch and Felting

Each of the people featured in this article do arts/ crafts I enjoy or I have tried in the past, they run local businesses, and have become friends because of their skills. I met Katie, of Popadoodle Design, after I noticed her artwork adorning the same shelves as my children’s books, in a local shop. Katie went on to illustrate my book, Elfabet. I met Kate of Jiraffe Kraft at a school Christmas fair, back in the days when we could freely socialise indoors. With Kate’s stall next to mine, I had plenty of time to admire her needlework skills. Alyson runs Sally Squirrel Sews. Her felt creations popped up on my local Facebook group, just as I was looking for gift inspiration. Finally, I met Tara recently when we both agreed to help a mutual friend publish her first book. Tara’s main business, making signs, is

Strangely the lockdowns have boosted my business as I only decided to start up at the end of 2020. I think if it hadn't been for the lockdowns, and needing to find something to occupy my time and unwind, I would never have had the courage to start up. I also think people have been sending more little gifts to each other while they haven't been able to see each other face to face. The gifts personally made for that loved one have so much more meaning. Juggling home schooling and making has been a challenge. I found my days were taken up with schooling and dealing with my 3 children and my nights with making felts and sewing. Sometimes

- 40 -

I'd be up until the small hours to complete orders. The positives far outweigh the negatives for me though. I've found a hobby that I love and can share and I find that so rewarding. People can find me at: www.facebook.com/sallysquirrelsews Or at my Etsy shop: https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/ SallySquirrelSews

Katie Weaver – Illustrating and Writing I’m an illustrator primarily specialising in art for children and storytelling. I love to help get children’s imaginations going. My stockists have been closed for most of the year, Brexit has increased the price of my print on products effectively pricing me out, and on top of the market difficulties I have had two young children at home to do remote schooling with so time has been short! I started writing a longer book for KS2 children as sometimes it was easier to pick up a laptop or have ideas going in my head than going to my art studio with the children around. So that’s something new to me. I’ve written before but never with a view to completing and publishing. Eventually I realised this wasn’t going anywhere fast, and I had the children at home again, I was really beginning to miss having something creative (and something that wasn’t just being mummy). I received some lovely parcels from friends and thought how nice it was to receive post. The children rarely received post and were always complaining it was us that got the letters (mostly bills). I decided to create an elf character who would write to children about his life living in my garden. I was thrilled with the uptake and intend to do other similar projects including Christmas elf letters. I’ve found new ways to share my stories and art. I’ve taken writing further than I have before. I’ve

got clear in my mind which bits of my business I like most and want to focus on.

You can find me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/popadoodledesign Or on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/popadoodledesign

Tara Collette – Graphic Design, Textiles and Stained -Glass Since graduating in Graphic Design in 2017, I have had an art studio at Islington Mill in Salford. Here, I create large textile pieces which aim to deliver bold and provocative messages in the hope to address social and personal issues. More recently, I have been learning how to make stained glass suncatchers.

Lockdown if anything, helped my business, which is a lucky thing to be able to say. With people being home so much I found a lot of people were wanting to decorate their spaces more by adding art to their walls. As a result of this, my banner sales have been - 41 -

was the push I needed to realise that my selfemployed work could be a ‘main’ job whereas before I had always just seen it as a ’small side hustle. More of my work can be viewed on: www.taracollette.co.uk Or you can follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taracollette Photo credit: Uskees Clothing for the 'forget fast fashion' photograph.

growing throughout lockdown and January was the busiest month I’d ever had. During the lockdown, I began to learn about stained glass and how to make small glass pieces, at first I just thought it was a ‘lockdown hobby’ and I wasn’t sure if people would buy the work I was making, but on March 1st I launched my first glass pieces for sale and they went down a treat! With the pandemic nothing changed too much for me, I was working independently before it and I still am. My art studio closed down during the first lockdown so I worked from home from that time which was nice, I got to experiment with things I had never worked with so much before like hand-dying my fabrics and cyanotype exposures. I also found myself applying to a lot of artist open calls which lead to being in some exhibitions and winning 1st prize in Warrington Contemporary 2020!

There are a few positives from the last year for me, for a few months I was on furlough so that was a good time to not have money worries but to continue making artwork. I was soon made redundant it

Jiraffe Kraft – Needlework For the past couple of years, I have been focusing on fabric crafts but I like to try new things so what you see on my page can change like my mood! I was raised by two artists so creating is in my blood but, for me, it is something I do for pleasure and catharsis rather than to make money (if I do, then that's a bonus!) I am a member of a number of creative groups and I know that many of my fellow creatives rely on sales to make a living - I have really seen the impact that lockdown has had for them. This was especially visible at Christmas when many of us would be relying on Christmas events and fairs for sales. People were left with surplus stock and nowhere to sell it. Initially, I suggested that we post our products in the groups and try to support each other when doing our Christmas shopping but the response was so huge, I felt that it needed more organisation to make these posts visible and make it easier for people to find what they were looking for. This is how 'Girl's Galleria' was born. I invited people to post examples - 42 -

of their work and a link to their personal pages, which I then organised into sections. The group is not for profit so there are no fees for promoting your work, as there might be with other sites. For me, the main benefit has been that I have 'met' lots of lovely people through the group and been able to connect with people despite lockdown. Although it was set up as a Christmas endeavour, I am currently in the process of 'rebranding' to keep the group running, due to the ongoing lockdown.

Over the last year, I have noticed an increase in community spirit – maybe it was always there, but I’ve only really noticed what lovely neighbours I have because of the situation we are in. While the big shops are closed, and crafty items are deemed non-essential, the local community has supported its own. I too have enjoyed shopping locally, supporting those who live close enough to hand deliver one-of-a-kind gifts with a ‘social distanced’ smile. My daughter happily packed her own lunch today (a very rare occurrence) because she had a brand new lunch bag, made by Kate of JiraffeKraft, and my little felt mouse, made by Alyson of Sally Squirrel Sews, sits on my writing desk, giving me inspiration while I work on my own creative projects, collaborating with Katie of Popadoodle Design, and Tara Collette.

You can see more of Girl’s Galleria here: https://www.facebook.com/ groups/267250954464897 And you can see my own work at: https://www.facebook.com/JiraffeKraft

These crafty creative businesses can only thrive if their local community supports them. Have a look at the businesses featured here, but also check out your local community next time you are wanting to buy a special gift for someone – you will not only receive a unique handmade gift, but also the knowledge that you have done good for your community.

TitleHealing The by Joy StanMargetts Phillips Reviewed by Wendy H. Jones I have been a prolific reader since the age of three, so as you can imagine I have read, and still read, numerous books. It is rare that one comes along and affects me as deeply as The Healing by Joy Margetts. It is hard to imagine that this is a debut novel as Margetts is such a skilled writer with a true gift for words. The premise of the story is that in the year 1231 a nobleman, Philip de Braose is grievously injured and is rescued from certain death by Brother Hywel a Cistercian Monk. We follow Philip as he starts to heal from his wounds and yet it is obvious, he also requires both emotional and mental healing, not so easily obtained. The reader joins Philip and Hywel as they journey from France back to Wales and the monastery in which Hywel is based. This is not a novel to be hurried, or one which has you on the edge of your seat, yet in its own way it pulls you in and holds you there. You want to read more and not stop reading, whilst wanting to savour every word and hold its meaning in your heart and mind for as long as possible.

This is a gentle journey of redemption and reconciliation which deserves to be read. It is Christian, which is to be expected of a book where one of the main characters is a monk. There is a bible verse at the end of each chapter which supports the narrative and brings it even further to life. However, the faith element is natural and does not overwhelm which, I believe, makes it accessible to all readers. I think it is a book which everyone can and should read. You can find out more about the book, the author and her own journey of healing at https://joymargetts.com/

Margetts has used words well to develop characters who are realistic – no cardboard cut-outs here. I could feel their pain and their peace in equal measure, and by the end of the book I considered them friends. I truly cared about them and what happened to them. Philip’s transformation held me spell bound.

https://bookgoodies.com/a/B08WQ94TJP

- 44 -

Paul’s Puzzles By Paul Godding The Main Challenge

The Lagrange Challenge

Allocate each letter of the English alphabet a numerical value, A=1 B=2 C=3 . . . Z=26. When adding the individual letters, find the total value of these four important words: • • • •

KNOWLEDGE HARD WORK RESILIENCE ATTITUDE

There are TWO ways of making 71 when using Lagrange’s Theorem. Can you find both?

The Mathematically Possible Challenge Using 4, 6 and 12 once each, with + – × ÷ available, which FOUR numbers is it possible to make from the list below? 8 16 24 32 40 48 56 64 72 80 #8TimesTable

The 7puzzle Challenge The playing board of the 7puzzle game is a 7-by-7 grid of 49 different numbers, ranging from 2 up to 84. The 1st & 6th rows contain the following fourteen numbers: 2 5 9 12 14 15 18 20 22 33 40 49 56 72

The Target Challenge Can you arrive at 71 by inserting 3, 5, 7 and 9 into the gaps on each line? • • •

Lagrange’s Four-Square Theorem states that every positive integer can be made by adding up to four square numbers. For example, 7 can be made by 2²+1²+1²+1² (or 4+1+1+1).

◯×◯+◯+◯ = 71 ◯²+◯×◯–◯ = 71 (◯+◯)×◯–◯² = 71

Which six numbers listed can each be made by adding three others from the list?

*** Solutions: http://7puzzleblog.com/answers/

Hello, my name is Paul Godding. I am a full-time professional private maths tutor based in the south-east of Wales who delivers face-to-face tuition locally as well as online tuition to students globally. It would be lovely to hear from you, so feel free to click paul@7puzzle.com if you wish to secure maths tuition for you or your child. Alternatively, you can ring/message/WhatsApp me from anywhere in the world: 07970868121 from within Wales and the UK, or +447970868121 from the rest of the world. - 45 -

Mum’s (or Possibly Mom’s) the Word by Ruth Leigh I’m writing this on Mothering Sunday, also known as Mother’s Day. It’s Sunday 14th March, I’m in the beautiful county of Suffolk in Eastern England, the sky is blue, the birds are singing and I’m still in bed. “Ruth, you lazy old moo,” you might be thinking. “Surely you should be up, doing things. It’s nearly 2 o’clock in the afternoon.” Normally I’d agree with you. I’m a do-er, a Type A achiever, a woman who likes to achieve six impossible, or at least unlikely, things before breakfast. Not today though. Today is my day. Eighteen years ago, I embarked on the most terrifying, inspiring, amazing journey of my life. We’d been married for ten years and everyone had given up on us ever having babies (not that it was any of their business). My husband told me that he married me for me, not for children, and I just wasn’t ready. I didn’t know if I ever would be. Then suddenly I was. Not to go into unnecessary details (we’ve only just met after all) but I will say that some red wine was involved in the final decision-making process. We were both thirtysix years old and we had no idea if we’d even be able to have a baby. The conversation went something like this: Me: I don’t know. It’s November. That would mean the baby coming along in August, our busiest time (we worked in hospitality) Him: But no-one ever gets pregnant first time. Me: What if I do? Him: Ruth, we’re in our late thirties. It may never happen. Wine?

Nine and a half months later (and that’s another story), I was lying in a hospital bed holding a small, auburn-haired person and reassessing life as I knew it. The process was repeated (omitting the red wine) twice more and I am now the mother of a 6 foot 2” ginger heavy metal drummer, a 6 foot 3” science fanatic and a 5 foot 4” gymnastics and dance obsessed daughter. They’re 17, 14 and 12 now which means I get to do exactly what I like on Mother’s Day. My career as a writer in lock down has involved an awful lot of time sitting in the dining room staring at a screen. I worked hard all week to give myself today off. A smoked salmon and cream cheese bagel plus tea was delivered at 9 o’clock and then the children appeared and presented me with handwritten cards, three scented candles, flowers, and series nine and ten of Modern Family (one of America’s greatest exports). I bought the papers yesterday (the Times and the Guardian since you ask) and have been enjoying myself most mightily, reading through book reviews, think pieces and recipes while sipping hot beverages delivered to my bedside. When I first became a mother, I was convinced I was doing it all wrong. At toddler group, I would generally be late, almost invariably stained and sleep-deprived into the

- 46 -

bargain. It took me years to understand that the carefully curated pictures of maternal perfection on social media were not a reflection of real life. And I mean years. As one of my mothering heroes Vicki Iovine once remarked, life was easier back in the old days when all you had to do was get everyone bathed and off to church once a week. In Little Women, Marmee had enough to do with her work at the Rooms and trying to keep her household together. Imagine if she’d had to look at snarky posts from the Moffats and the Gardiners, bragging about their perfect interiors and their daughters’ excellent matches. Meantime in Avonlea, I feel that Josie Pye would have taken to social media, posting a constant stream of fitspo videos and body shaming Diana Barry. And can you imagine spoiled Cousin Lilly Page from What Katy Did Next on Insta? Poor Katy would have been cringing at the images of all her new clothes, her selfies with celebs and her constant bragging.

Being a mother has turned my hair grey, given me wrinkles and lines, slowed me down and ruined my sleep patterns. But it’s also taught me more than my education ever did, brought me wonderful new friends, helped me to understand what unconditional love is and meant that I get to do whatever I want once a year. If you’re reading this in the UK, I hope you had a good day. For all you lovely American readers, Happy Mother’s Day in advance. It’s good to be a part of the Mom’s Favorite Reads family.

Ruth is a novelist and freelance writer who lives in beautiful East Suffolk in the UK. She is married with three children, one husband, three budgies, six quail, eight chickens and a kitten. Her first novel, “The Diary of Isabella M Smugge”, published by Instant Apostle, came out in February this year and she is working on the sequel. She writes for a number of small businesses and charities and blogs at ruthleighwrites.com. You can find her on Instagram and Twitter at ruthleighwrites. - 47 -

Signs of Spring by Melanie P. Smith

https://moms-favorite-reads.com/moms-authors/melanie-p-smith/

- 48 -

- 49 -

Memories of Ireland by Chantal Bellehumeur Before the pandemic, I had the pleasure of traveling to Ireland with my eighteen-year-old son Aidan as well as my husband Jeff. We excitedly boarded our plane to Dublin on the Tuesday night of July 9, 2019. After a six hour and fifteen-minute direct flight from Montreal Canada, we safely arrived at our destination. Although it was 8:30 in the morning in Dublin, it was technically 3:30 for us. It would take us a couple of days to fully adjust to the five-hour time difference. The three of us sleepily collected our luggage from the conveyor belt of the baggage carousel and passed through customs, then took a twentyminute taxi ride to our hotel. The driver rode on the left side of the road which was a bit disorienting for us at first.

We stayed at the Central Hotel in Dublin for eight nights during our vacation. The historic building built in 1887 was conveniently located at the centre of the big city, as the name would suggest, so we were at a walking distance from many tourist attractions and meet up locations for the various tours I had booked in advance for us. When we first arrived at our lovely three-star hotel, the original plan was to simply drop off our luggage. We were pleasantly surprised to find out that our room was ready even though it was still early in the morning and the check-in time was supposed to be later in the afternoon. Feeling like we could all use a long nap, we headed upstairs to the third floor using the elevator, and did just that. Feeling jet lagged, we drowsily ate lunch at a cafe and leisurely walked around the crowded city before going on a free walking tour called Fables and Folklore. I had already studied the area back home, and mapped out in advance how to get to our meeting point across the river Liffey. It was the same for everything else I had booked in advance, although our meeting spot was usually much closer to our hotel.

We went over the famous Ha'Penny Bridge to the North side in order to go meet our young volunteer guides, and crossed it again during the walking tour as well as many other times throughout our trip even though it was not the only bridge going over the long river. On this particular tour, we were brought to several landmarks to be recited mythical stories. At StPatrick’s Cathedral, for example, we were told that there were no snakes in Ireland because St-Patrick had chased them all into the sea. This information was then followed by the fact that St-Patrick’s Day is a national holiday in Ireland, and that it is highly celebrated every March 17th by just about anyone. However, we were warned that the tourism industry takes advantage and raises their prices. For the remainder of the day, we continued walking around Dublin like zombies because we were still super tired but eager to explore. We mainly stayed on the North side of the river. At one point, we walked by a music store and a small harp displayed in the large window caught my eye. Unable to forget the string instrument, I went back to the store with Jeff a few days later to inquire about the price even though I had no idea how to play it. I was shown music theory books, plus informed about video tutorials I could look up. I seriously considered learning how to play the harp, but never did buy one. I think I had just simply immersed myself in the Irish culture. Jeff engaged into the culture as well, by purchasing a dark blue coloured flat cap which he wore for most of the trip. While we were aimlessly wandering around on our first day, going in and out of shops, it began to rain. It started off with a few innocent droplets, but soon began to come down harder.

- 50 -

The sudden downpour made us run to the closest restaurant. We figured we might as well have dinner there, and asked to be seated at a table on their covered terrace despite the ongoing rainfall. My husband and I had our food with alcoholic drinks made in Ireland; a beer for Jeff, and a bottle of Craigies apple cider for myself.

how Ireland's famous black looking beer is made. Of course, we also sampled the dark drink. We were first given complimentary shot glasses filled with the dark red brew. Even in its small format it had a layer of white foam at the top. My son didn't like it at all. I am not a beer drinker, but at that moment I enjoyed having the drink. I also enjoyed the samples of other Guinness brews available, in an aromatic room. So did Jeff.

The three of us went to bed earlier than usual that night, but the rest of the city remained quite awake. We could actually hear traditional Irish music playing as well as people talking and singing from our hotel room.

When the sample session was over, we headed upstairs to the iconic Gravity Bar where we got a panoramic view of the city. We were also able to exchange vouchers for a free pint of beer or two half pints. My husband and I had half pints of the original Guinness which were served in tall glasses that had a harp on them. We then tried another beer brewed by Guinness; Hop House 13 Lager. Aidan on the other hand, exchanged his two vouchers for sodas.

To be fair, we did leave our windows slightly open because it would seem that we had brought some of Montreal’s summer heat with us. Since the temperature in Ireland rarely ever goes over twenty degrees Celsius, the hotel did not have air conditioning. We still managed to fall sleep and were all in much better shape the next morning.

While Jeff and I felt slightly tipsy by the time we left the crowded bar, Aidan was perfectly sober.

Together, we went down to the hotel’s small breakfast room for our first meal of the day. We could have a continental breakfast by selecting a few items from the two buffet tables, or order a full meal. We all ordered eggs every day, except when we had early excursions planned because we had to leave before food was even available. On those days, we ate muffins and fruits purchased in advance at Dunnes grocery store located directly in front of the hotel. We shopped there a few times throughout the week, as it was also a good place to get snacks and drinks.

We had lunch at the brewery's restaurant, trying out their Guinness batter fish and chips. We were all Guinessed out after that. Our return to the hotel was done in style; sitting in a horse drawn carriage. We didn't actually get dropped off right in front of our door. The coach went as far as it was allowed to in the direction of our hotel, and we walked the rest of the way. I love horse carriage rides. It was actually my idea to go on one, and I had a big smile on my face the whole time. The sound of the horse hooves hitting the pavement made me feel nostalgic for some reason.

Our second day in Dublin was mainly spent at the Guinness storehouse and brewery, where we learnt

- 51 -

Later that night, my husband and I went on a free ghost walking tour while Aidan did his own thing. My son and I travelled a lot together in the past and he has a much better sense of direction then I do, so I wasn’t too worried about him getting lost or anything.

Back at the hotel with Aidan, we ate the individually packaged cookies left for us by the cleaning staff. Jeff made himself a coffee while I steeped tea. It would become our evening ritual, along with making use of the hotel’s free Wi-Fi network to connect to the internet.

I have to admit that the ghost walk wasn't all that spooky, seeing that the stories were told in broad daylight because the sun did not set until around eleven. Jeff and I still had a good time though because the tales told in front of an old gothic church with gargoyles, an old prison, plus the old city wall which is supposedly the most haunted part of Ireland, were entertaining.

Our third day in Ireland was spent traveling South of Dublin in a tour bus to visit three old castles.

Before heading back to our hotel, my husband and I decided to have drinks together; Bailey's Irish cream for myself, and an Irish beer for Jeff. We sat in the lovely enclosed courtyard of a pub with live music playing. It wasn’t part of the touristy Temple bar strip, so not crowded or overpriced. While we were nursing our alcoholic drinks, Jeff and I started talking to each other in the best Irish accent we could mimic which would soon become a habit; not just while we were in Ireland, but back home too. To be clear, we weren’t making fun of the sing-song accent but rather embraced it.

The first one we visited was the impressive remains of Rock of Cashel, located on a grassy mountain top. We were free to roam within the dark walls and on the walled-in grounds which also contained an old graveyard with several high cross tombstones. Many black birds resembling crows flew around the thousand-year-old historical site, giving it an eerier feel. We also visited Castle, located on a rocky island beside a wide river where majestic white swans were swimming. It's one of the largest castles in Ireland and was built in 1142 by a man named Conor O'Brien. Seeing that my son's last name is O'Brien (his father and I split up when he was four), we joked about the well-preserved medieval castle possibly being part of his heritage. After a guided tour outside, during which we saw a cannonball lodged into the front castle wall as well as cannons on display and passed under rounded doorways with spiky metal gates, we were able to explore on our own outdoors as well as go look at the decorated interior.

- 52 -

The main attraction was Blarney Castle, where Jeff and I kissed the famous Blarney stone. Legend suggests that anyone kissing the limestone, which was set into a tower of the castle in 1446, would be given the gift of the gab. Aidan wasn't interested in standing in line for this, so he ventured on his own to explore the castle ground gardens. Jeff and I joined him later on for a short walk. We didn't have much leisure time left after exiting the small stone castle. Jeff and I went up some narrow spiralling stone stairs all the way to the third floor and onto the roofless top. Being up there, looking down at the garden and trees below plus feeling the wind on my face made me really nervous since I have a fear of heights. The thought of partially hanging from the tower just to kiss a stone that thousands of other lips had touched made me question my sanity, but it turned out not to be scary at all; kissing the stone that is. The area was secured by a grate so nobody could accidentally plunge to their death, there were long metal bars to hold onto, and somebody was there to anchor my legs while I awkwardly dangled. Also, the rock itself was sanitized after anyone kissed it. We came back from our day trip feeling tired, mainly because of the long bus ride, but it had been a wonderful day. It continued on a happy note with me ordering an Irish coffee at the charming hotel bar called the Library Bar. The elegant room had padded chairs and couches around low wooden coffee tables as well as shelves full of books. The fourth day of our vacation didn't start off very well. We had a tour booked to explore the Northern parts of Ireland, and arrived at our meeting point, the bronze Statue of Molly Malone, fifteen minutes early. However, about half an hour later no guide had showed up yet and nobody around us was waiting for the same tour. When I saw a guide from the company I had booked our tour with, I asked if he knew where our bus was. As it turned out, our pickup time had been changed but I had not been notified. It was too late for the bus to come back and get us, so the guide offered for us to go on his tour instead. We might have gone if we had not already booked the same tour with another company

for a different day. We still wanted to go to Northern Ireland, so we headed back to our hotel to find another date available with a different company and try to change our schedule around to make it happen. I wasn’t in a good mood. Of course, I contacted the tour company and requested a full refund for the tour we missed which turned out to be quite complicated, seeing that I had booked it online through another party. In the end, it all worked itself out though. Once everything was rearranged and my mood was lifted, we collectively decided to walk around Dublin. The three of us checked-out the kiosks and boutiques within an indoor Victorian style market before heading towards Dublin Castle. Parts of the outer walls were unexpectedly colourful. They had been painted red, yellow, green and blue, but the rest of the renovated old building looked like a typical castle. Although we could have paid to visit the inside, we all felt that we had visited enough castles the previous day.

Instead, we walked around the beautiful garden as well as the courtyard and surrounding areas of the castle. Aidan took many great flora pictures there; surprisingly, using his cell phone. We then had lunch on the terrace of the castle's cafe which got infested with pigeons and seagulls trying to eat leftover food from the unoccupied tables. It was the last thing I would have expected there, but we all thought it was kind of funny. The three of us headed back towards our hotel and walked past it to get to a pedestrian street. It was full of buskers, so we stopped every so often to look at a few musical performances. One girl in particular got my attention, as she had a very nice singing voice. I threw in some Euro coins into her open guitar case after she sang her last song. We then walked on ahead to St-Stephen Green's beautiful Victorian style Park. After our leisure walk around a pond that had ducks and swans in it, we took the same pedestrian street back towards our hotel. Hungry, we stopped by a cafe for dinner and ate outside on their sixthfloor rooftop. - 53 -

eventually go walk around the massive grounds of the castle itself.

Later that night, Jeff and I went on a graveyard ghost tour. Aidan wasn't interested in it, so he did his own thing again while Jeff and I embarked inside a dark bus with covered windows.

There was a public military ceremony happening in the courtyard which also included a live band. Jeff and I sat down together in the large field of grass that seemed to go on forever, and listened to the music while Aidan ventured on his own again.

We were first taken to the old city wall, and then driven to a graveyard while we were creepily being told horror stories. We didn't actually go inside the graveyard as I thought we would, but had a shot of a green coloured drink in front of the tall metal gates. Again, the sun was out so it wasn't really spooky. But, the way the interior of the bus had been decorated made up for it. The spookiness continued on the way back.

Jeff had purchased himself a small coffee-to-go from the outdoor café because he needed regular intakes of caffeine. He drank his beverage while he and I ate wraps we had bought earlier on. Jeff and I then headed to the front of the castle to walk among the beautiful rose garden surrounding a large stone fountain shooting out water from its centre.

The next day was extra special for me. We started by heading Southwest to the medieval city of Kilkenny. Our driver parked the bus by Kilkenny castle, and we were all given the chance to use the restrooms across the street as well as quickly buy lunch at an indoor food market before going on an optional walking tour.

We reunited with Aidan earlier than planned since we bumped into each other shortly before having to get back on the bus. He showed us some of the new flower pictures he had taken which were amazing. Our bus driver then brought us to Wicklow Mountains National Park, driving right through the small town of Hollywood on the way. We also passed by green land with sheep where the movie "Braveheart" was filmed, and stopped by the Wicklow Gap for a panoramic view of the brown and green mountains.

We almost didn’t make it on time for the guided walk because of the long line-ups, but the guide actually ended up waiting a little longer for everyone. We went down the main street where we were given historical facts and told legends. One of them was about the very first woman to be condemned of witchcraft in Ireland. Along with sorcery, she was accused of poisoning her four husbands. It was during the fourteenth century, and her servant Petronila ended up getting burnt at the stake rather than her. We were told that Petronila’s ghost could sometimes be seen in the streets at night.

We continued on to the glacial valley of Glendalough and visited the ruins of St-Kevin's monastery within the national park. Everyone was told that if they could wrap their arms around StPatrick's cross in the old cemetery and touch their fingers together it would bring them good luck. I was unable to do so, but keep getting told I have enough luck.

Our guide left us at the exact spot where the burning took place. Out of curiosity, we decided to walk down an alley to get a glimpse of the Kyteler’s Inn where Lady Alice Kyteler’s story originated. It still had some of its original stone walls and beams. The three of us then headed back towards the castle and took a short stroll along the River Nore. We walked on a wide path between the water and castle’s curtain wall, watching kayakers below. Eventually, we headed up a staircase and took a dirt path in a woodsy area to - 54 -

Although Wicklow lamb was on the menu of the fancy restaurant-bar we ended up at that evening, which made me sad, we enjoyed good food and drinks once again. We did feel a little underdressed in our casual clothing though, but since nobody mentioned a dress code we didn’t bother going to our hotel to change.

Our leisure time at the national park was spent taking a pleasant walk around a lake in a woodsy area. We saw a doe as well as many fluffy white sheep outside the wide dirt path we were on, plus many patches of green clovers on the ground below the tall trees.

The whiskey I ordered at the bar while we were waiting for a table came on a thick wooden board with the glass of liquor itself, a small pitcher of water, and a glass full of ice. It seemed very formal, and I must admit that for a second I became afraid of the price. I had not specified any brands, and hoped I had not been given one of the most expensive ones. My mind was put at ease when I found out that the bartender had given me their house brand, Black Bush, which ended up being my favorite. July 15 was another fantastic day in Ireland for us. We travelled to the West side of the country this time, rolling by many hills and fields of grass with sheep. Some of the animals were actually walking on the side of the roads. Luckily, our bus driver did not hit any of them.

Our last activity was a sheep herding demonstration which was quite interesting to watch. There were two trained collies in the fenced-in sheep field, as well as a cute puppy who was officially starting her first day of work. My favourite part was having the privilege to feed two adorable lambs. I volunteered and was given a bottle of milk. The cute lambs fought each other for the long nipple once I put my arm through the short wooden fence, so I made sure each one got fairly fed. I let the white lamb suckle on the nipple for several seconds, then gave it to the black lamb. I switched every so often. Before the milk was even finished, both lambs suddenly walked away and I was forgotten. I will never forget them though.

The three of us soon found ourselves walking along the edge of the cliffs of Moher; not too close of course, as we were warned ahead of time of its dangers. A few tourists had unfortunately fallen into the rocky waters and died trying to get good pictures of the beautiful scenery. Part of the breathtaking site was secured by a fence, but another area was to be ventured in at ones’ own risk. - 55 -

A food kiosk separated the two areas, so I treated myself to a scone with strawberry jam. I ate it, sitting on a boulder, looking at the amazing view of the North Atlantic sea and cliffs.

The last stop was in Galway City. Our tour guide brought us to the front of Lynch Castle which probably would have gone unnoticed otherwise because the small four-story limestone structure is attached to other buildings and is now a bank. She just wanted to show it to us before letting us wander around on our own in the cobblestone streets of the medieval city.

I could see the white O'Brien tower at the top of the cliff which we had walked by earlier on. It looked small from where I was. After exploring the magnificent site, we headed to the visitor’s centre and entered the duty-free shop to buy a few souvenirs for ourselves as well as little gift items for others. The O’Brien family crest was on display along with information about the family name, so Aidan was able to read about his heritage.

Jeff took me to Claddagh jewellers, where the famous ring was originally crafted, and bought me a silver Claddagh ring with a green coloured stone heart; I chose it. As recommended, we then went to Murphy's ice cream shop to try samples of their cold treats made from Kerry cow's milk; I personally tasted their Irish coffee ice cream which had alcohol in it. Jeff and Aidan ordered ice cream cones, but I held back because of my unfortunate lactose intolerance. Although I had lactose pills with me, I was a bit paranoid and felt that the tiny sample was enough. I was hungry though, so once ‘my men’ were done eating their ice creams we headed to a pie shop for lunch. We ended up eating dessert as opposed to an actual meal. Although the small shop and diner had meat pies on their menu, we all decided on individual apple pies which were absolutely scrumptious.

Our bus then rode along the Wild Way and we made a quick stop to get another panoramic view of the sea.

After browsing inside a few boutiques as well as the small artist market by St-Nicholas' church, it was time to head back.

Back on the bus, we were given an explanation of how the poor population of Ireland had built the short stone walls that were seen practically everywhere, during the four-year potato famine that started in 1845. The starving workers were only paid a penny per day for their hard labour which explained the name given to the boundary formations. It made me appreciate the ‘penny walls’ even more; especially those going up the mountains.

As we were leaving Galway, we drove past the pub where Ed Sheeren's video for "Galway girl" was filmed. This was the second Irish musical performer mentioned during the tour. We had learned how the song "Zombie" by The Cranberries came to be before listening to it as we rode through the lead singer's homeland. Whenever I hear either one of those songs now, I instantly think of Ireland but they both bring on completely different emotions. While “Galway Girl” provides me with a sensation of happiness and makes me want to dance, “Zombie” makes me feel sad since it was written based on the war that took place in Northern Ireland.

On our way to our next destination, we drove by the remains of several fortresses and castles; one of them was called Leprechaun Castle and was actually just a miniature stone structure about the size of a child’s playhouse built around a well. There was a lone donkey hanging around there. Our guide asked the driver to stop so she could feed the animal a banana.

On July 16th, we made our way to the Northern part of Ireland which is actually part of the United - 56 -

Kingdom. The currency used there is British pounds rather than Euros. After driving past Belfast and getting a glimpse of where the Titanic sailed from back in 1912, we made a quick stop at King's Road; a nice wide path with tall trees on each side, and also one of the filming locations of the television show "Game of Thrones."

After an Irish lunch inside a little cafeteria-style restaurant located in the middle of nowhere, we visited the Giant's Causeway. The large site is composed of over forty thousand interlocking stones, most of which are hexagonal, as well as tall columns. Although they are the result of a volcano eruption, the World Heritage site got its name because of a legend stating that a giant named Finn built it while trying to protect Ireland from a threatening adversary. There is a large stone there that actually looks like a Giant's boot. After those amazing visits, we headed in the direction of Dunluce Castle, located on the top of a cliff, and stopped on the side of the road for a couple of minutes to get a nice view. We looped back to Belfast which was a complete switch from the rest of the day. We had the option of walking around the downtown area on our own for an hour or go on a historic taxi tour. Although it is safe to be on your own in Belfast nowadays, I feel the need to point out that it is technically still a war zone.

We then headed to our next destination and bravely crossed the twenty-metre long Carrick-A-Rede rope bridge to get from the mainland to a small island called Carrickaredel. I thought it would be difficult for me to do so since I am afraid of heights and the bridge is thirty metres above the sea level. But, I actually felt safer than expected since there was no wind to shake the wobbly bridge and I could hold onto both sides. I quite enjoyed the view while walking on the bridge, and even more so on the small island it led to.

Our family opted for the famous black taxi tour which was an emotional ride. Although worth seeing, it was shocking to view the political murals, the gates that close at 6:30 sharp every evening, as well as the long tall wall that still divides the British Protestants and Irish Catholics living there. It was full of graffiti and we were encouraged to add our own message or drawing.

- 57 -

I grabbed one of the markers offered by our taxi driver to draw a black peace sign, then wrote my first name underneath it. Jeff marked the wall as well, but Aidan could not decide what to do. Perhaps he was still absorbing everything. The rest of Ireland had just celebrated their independence on July 12, so the Protestant side who are loyal to England and don't want a united Ireland still had all their Union Jack flags up. We learned that they usually parade into the Catholic side to brag about their past victory and that it can get pretty intense so there are never any taxi tours on that day. Sometimes the taxis don’t tour on the 13th either. It dawned on me that we were originally supposed to go to Northern Ireland on that day, so I considered the lack of notification for an earlier pick up a blessing in disguise. The taxi tour wasn't exactly what I would call a pleasant outing, especially that I felt like an intruder at times, but it was a major part of Irish history so I am glad I went. Shortly after getting back inside our tour bus, feeling like we had just visited another country, the guide pointed out the Titanic memorial statue. It only had the names of everyone from Belfast who had been in first class on the ship and died. Needless to say, Belfast was a melancholic place to be.

Back on a happier note, when we returned to Dublin we had some drinks at the Library Bar inside the hotel right before having dinner there as well. I tried a house whiskey which was pretty good. Aidan took a sip and really liked it too.

Our last day in Ireland arrived quicker than we would have liked. After a full Irish breakfast, Jeff and I headed to the archeology museum to see a recommended bog exhibition. It was both fascinating and creepy at the same time since it involved human bodies dating back a couple thousand years, recently found preserved in the bogs of Europe. They looked like leather props. We also briefly checked out the Medieval and Viking sections of the free museum. Jeff and I then went to Lord Mayor's Lounge within the fancy Shelbourne hotel for High Tea. We listened to a live pianist play classical songs while we ate delicious scones with clotted cream and jam, as well as mini sandwiches and desserts. Of course, we also drank tea inside the elegant room. I personally selected Irish Whiskey cream tea, then a flowering tea. I was later served a special birthday treat, complete with a lit candle, even though it wasn't my birthday; I had mentioned it being my unbirthday as a joke when I made the reservation because I was asked if I was celebrating anything special. Feeling like our stomachs were going to burst after eating so much, Jeff and I headed to St-Stephen's Park to try and digest. While we sat in the grass, I ended up feeding birds some of the sesame seeds I had in my purse. It started off with ducks, but I ended up getting the attention of pigeons. I was actually swarmed by them, but enjoyed myself since I love birds.

- 58 -

A local man surprised us by hand feeding a swan, and told us an interesting story about a swan couple who allowed him to feed their babies many years back.

I felt alive in Ireland, feeling cheery the majority of the time and having the energy to stay up late. We all, had a good craic, as they say over there to mean having a good time.

Our walk out of the park brought us to the end of a busker show; a comedic man on a unicycle juggling large knives. Since we were right in front of the big mall where the famine exhibition was taking place, we decided to go check it out. It was quite depressing, but we didn't exactly expect it to be cheery.

All good things must come to an end, as they say. After an amazing vacation in Ireland, it was eventually time to go back home. The weather had been perfect, and I really wasn't looking forward to coming back home to a furnace. But, I obviously could not stay in Ireland forever. So, on the Thursday morning of July 18, 2019 we said bye to Ireland and flew back to Montreal where we had to adjust to the time difference once more. Luckily, we still had three days left before having to go back to work.

Aidan had done his own thing again that day, and we all met up again at the hotel to figure out dinner plans. Jeff and I thought our last night in Ireland deserved a goodbye drink. So, we headed to a nearby pub. Jeff had yet another Irish beer, and I tried Jameson Irish whiskey this time; Aidan had his usual sample from my glass, not wanting a full alcoholic drink to himself. The only time he ever ordered something with alcohol in it during our trip, we pleasantly make fun of him because it was an expensive Pina Colada which looked completely out of place.

On our last evening, we started off at the bar of the pub, and ended up in a private booth for our food while live music was playing. The band really interacted with everyone present and eventually encouraged us to participate in the making of the music. The members even taught the growing crowd how to play a couple of instruments, and we all clapped to the lively tunes we practiced together. I don't usually go out to pubs, or drink that much for that matter, but was really enjoying the ambiance.

Chantal Bellehumeur is a Canadian author born in 1981. She has several published novels of various genres as well as numerous short stories, poems and articles featured in compilation books, magazine, plus a local newspaper.

For a complete list of publications, including free reads, visit the following website: author-chantal-bellehumeur.webnode.com/products

- 59 -

The Bluebells and the Ogre Submitted by Poppy Flynn Written by Jessica Age 11 Gwyn, the penguin, Artie the arctic fox, and Polo, the polar bear looked at each other in horror. They were trapped! Each one of them was swinging from a tree in a basket. They had been caught. Below them the bluebell heads swayed softly in the breeze, an unusual thing in the northern, wonderland. But even more scary was the huge, warty nosed ogre who was bellowing with anger and threatening to eat them. How were they going to get out of this? It had all started innocently. They had only just met while they were out walking. In the far reaches of the north, beyond civilization, the feeble winter sun glinted off of the icy banks of snow. The year round winter wonderland stretched out as far as the eye could see in every direction like a never ending blanket of white upon white. The only thing that broke the bleak snow scape was where snow met sea. Navy against white with chunks of ice floating on the freezing, glacial waters. Everything looked barren and uninviting, but there was life here if you knew where to look. “Hello, I’m Gwyn, who are you?” questioned the penguin “Hi, I’m Polo, I haven’t seen you around here before,” the polar bear stated as he strolled through the snow. “I’m new here, I came to explore,” replied penguin. Just then an arctic fox interrupted “Excuse me your standing on my tail.” “Oh I’m ever so sorry, I didn’t see you there.” Apologised the polar bear,

“That’s ok, I know I blend well with the snow, I’m Artie,” said the fox as he shook his tail, The penguin looked at the pair and asked “do any of you know where the bluebell field is? I hear it’s the most beautiful place around.” “I’m just on my way there now, you’re welcome to join me?” answered the polar bear, “Can I come along too?” asked the fox shyly, “Of course, everyone is welcome,” smiled the polar bear. Far beyond the glimmering ice caps and giant glaciers was a forest. From a distance the forest looks icy and eerie, but when inside this dense and leafy snow covered canopy, when the sun is at its highest, the forest glitters like a shimmering disco ball. It lights up the whole forest, the snow reflecting the shimmering disco lights like a light through a diamond, spilling its light in every direction making rainbow colours filter between the trees. The flowers here are all white; roses, lilies and snow drops. - 60 -

But in one far, quiet area of the forest was a sea of bluebells popping out of the soft blanket of snow. Three unlikely pals. Gwyn the penguin waddled along, looking smart like he is wearing a suit. Artie the Arctic fox who strolled along silently with the gentlest touch, his sleek white coat fitting him perfectly, his small beady eyes, like small lumps of coal, alert and watching all around. Polo the Polar bear with his large body and low voice seemed scary and unapproachable at first but he was just like a giant teddy bear, cuddly and fluffy and fun with eyes so big and shiny you can see your reflection in them. The three new friends laughed and messed about as they continued their journey. They were going to have the best adventure. They discovered the bluebell wood. It was amazing, a sea of bright blue colour in the middle of all the white. And it smelled wonderful too. Gwyn, Artie and Polo ran around laughing and playing. They jumped and rolled about in the flowers having the best time. That was when it happened! First the ground shook. Then the leaves on the trees trembled. And suddenly there was a giant roaring sound. Finally, they saw the most scary sight they had ever seen in their lives. It was… a huge, warty nosed ogre. And he was mad!

“You have destroyed my flowers,” he yelled in his gravelly, growly voice which blew over them like the wind. Before they knew it, he had captured them, stuffed them in a cage, and hung them from a tree. The three animals looked around in fright. But they saw that the ogre was right, the beautiful flowers where flat and crushed. What had they done?

“We are so sorry. We didn’t mean to damage the flowers, they were just so pretty, we wanted to play in them.” The ogre growled and showed his yellow teeth. The fox, the penguin and the polar bear trembled with fright. “Please don’t eat us. Give us a chance to fix this.” The ogre laughed and it was like an earthquake. “I’m a vegetarian, but I will set you free as long as you help me restore all of the bluebells” The new friends all agreed, they worked hard together and worked their fingers to the bone to help get the bluebells back to their original selves, after all the hard work and effort they have put in the friends realised how much work it takes to look after this beautiful place and decided they would be more appreciative and careful where they play in the future.

- 61 -

The Long Drive by Penny Luker Harry Blaze made his way up the long driveway, noticing the borders needed attention and roses needed pruning. He’d learned his gardening skills in prison, but had decided that if he was going to turn his life around he needed to go straight. Just before he left prison he’d been offered an interview for a gardening post at this beautiful, if intimidating, grand house. He rang the doorbell.

Lady Joyce was speaking, ‘I can see you’re admiring the photo frames. Yes they are silver and you need to know I know exactly how many there are. Seventeen, and if any go missing you will be out of here quicker than you know.’

An old style manservant with greyish skin and wrinkles that would have done a prune proud, answered the door.

‘I can only count sixteen and anyway, you contacted me to offer me a job. I thought you were giving me a real chance.’ He stood up. ‘I was obviously wrong. You just want someone as a whipping boy.’

‘You’re expected, Sir. Please come in. I’m Barnaby. Have been with Lady Joyce for forty years.’ Harry was shown into a large sitting room with high ceilings and faded, worn furniture. ‘Mr Blaze, M’Lady.’ ‘Would you bring us some coffee and biscuits, Barnaby? Thank you.’ Harry shuffled awkwardly. He’d never been in a house so stately. ‘Oh do sit down my boy. Now, I understand you’ve been away and during your time have trained as a gardener. Your reference says that you have a natural talent. I used to be the same you know.’ Harry’s eyes scanned the room, nervously. He so wanted this job; to turn his life around and not return to prison, but his eyes rested on the photographs set out in rows and there was a picture of his mother. What an earth was that about?

Harry looked at her with resignation and then back to the picture, he was sure was his mother.

‘Oh do sit down, Harry. I know you want the job.’ He was about to sit down, when Barnaby tottered in with the coffee. Harry took the heavy tray and placed it on the table. Barnaby shuffled out of the room but Harry knew the footsteps stopped outside the door. ‘Let me tell you about the job,’ said Lady Joyce. ‘You’ll be completely in charge of the garden. It will be up to you to bring it back to it’s former glory. It needs a lot of work, but you’ll be paid well and there’s a flat over the garage you can have for free.’ ‘That all sounds good.’ ‘And you can come and eat with me in the evenings and keep me company.’ ‘That seems a bit odd, if you don’t mind my saying so. Do you eat with Barnaby too?’ ‘Of course not, he’s my employee.’

- 62 -

She told me all about how she fell in love with my father. They were childhood sweethearts,’ said Harry.

‘Well, it’s all in the past now. I’m trying to make amends. I’m offering you a chance to get back on your feet and become part of the family.’ Harry felt both sadness and anger that this woman had ruined his mother’s life and damaged his.

Harry grimaced, ‘So am I.’ ‘Oh dear,’ said Lady Joyce, ‘I was hoping to have a bit of time to get to know you before we came to this point. I suppose I’d better explain.’ She paused.

‘I don’t think so, Lady Joyce. I only met my mother for an hour, but I could tell she was warm hearted and kind. I don’t think I want to be part of your family,’ said Harry, knowing that his chances of getting another such perfect job offer was now next to zero.

‘How do I put this nicely? I can’t. I had a daughter – your mother. The thing is I have no heir to pass this place on to, except you. I’m sorry to say your mother had no morals. She hooked up with a most unsuitable man. A member of the lower class, no less.’ she whispered. ‘Well I couldn’t have the family name brought into disrepute, so I kicked her out. Harsh I know but they were different times back then. That’s why you ended up in an orphanage. I couldn’t bring her child back here. What would people have said?’

‘There’s still sixteen frames,’ he said as he strode over and opened the door.

Harry thought about his childhood. Lots of noise and people around, but no-one of his own.

‘Why did he desert my mother in her hour of need?’ Harry asked.

‘She was never designed to be a good mother, you know and your father skedaddled,’ said Lady Joyce.

‘He was serving in the army, abroad. He didn’t know about you until recently. Come and meet him. I’m sure you’ll like him.’

‘Did you know she came to see me in prison before she died? She knew she hadn’t got long and it had taken her months to find me. She cried and apologised for letting me down, but told me I could still make a good life for myself and that’s what I’ll do.

With that he took his phone out, walked over to the pictures and snapped any photographs that had his mother in.

Barnaby stood back to let him out. As Barnaby followed him to the front door he said, ‘Your father is my son. ‘He’s a good man. Lives in the village.’

Harry smiled. He might have some family after all. He gave Barnaby his arm and they walked slowly, away from the imposing house, along the extensive drive, together.

Penny Luker is a writer and artist from Cheshire. She writes novels, short stories and poetry for adults, and also writes children’s stories. You can find her work at www.pennyluker.wordpress.com or author.to/PennyLuker

- 63 -

Europe by Book by Hannah Howe

Nadia: The Girl Who Couldn’t Sit Still by Karlin Gray (Author), Christine Davenier (Illustrator) Nadia Comaneci was a feisty and fearless little girl who went from climbing trees in the forests of Romania to swinging into history at the 1976 Olympic Games, where she received an unprecedented seven perfect scores in gymnastics. But as readers will see in this first-ever illustrated picture book about Nadia’s journey to Olympic gold, the road from small-town girl to world-class athlete was full of many imperfect moments.

Expert illustrations that capture the energy and fluidity of Nadia’s exuberant gymnastic routines and referential back matter round out this inspirational story of determination and overcoming adversity. A perfect 10. https://books2read.com/u/4j2PNZ

- 64 -

The Greenest Branch: A Novel of Germany’s First Female Physician (Hildegard of Bingen Book 1) by P.K. Adams The Greenest Branch is the first in a two-book series based on the true story of Hildegard of Bingen, Germany’s first female physician and one of the few women to attain that position in medieval Europe. Set against the backdrop of the lush oak forests and sparkling rivers of the Rhineland, it is a tale of courage, strength, sacrifice, and love that will appeal to fans of Ken Follett, Umberto Eco, Elizabeth Chadwick, Margaret Frazer, Bernard Cornwell, Conn Iggulden – and to anyone who enjoys strong female protagonists in historical fiction. https://books2read.com/u/38Zy6r

- 65 -

Mom’s Favorite Reads Author Sheena Macleod Sheena Macleod lives in a seaside town in Scotland. She gained a PhD at the University of Dundee, where she lectured in mental health nursing. When, she was diagnosed with lupus, an auto-immune disorder, she retired from her lecturer post. After leaving teaching, Sheena combined her love of history with her passion for research and turned to novel writing. She has written a number of short stories and poems. Reign of the Marionettes is her first published historical fiction novel. So, You Say I Can’t Vote!: Frances Connelly: The Workingclass Woman’s Route to the Vote, a non-fiction book, was co-written with journalist, Laura Linham. Sheena is the Club Development Officer for the Scottish Association of Writers. She was involved in the development and publication of four charity short story anthologies by the One Million Project (OMP). The OMP comprises a group of over 150 authors and artists who contribute some of their work in an effort to raise money for homelessness and Cancer Research UK.

Follow Sheena on- Website https://www.sheenas-books.co.uk Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/ reignofthemarionettes Blogs – http://reignofthemarionettes.wordpress.com Twitter- Dr Sheena Macleod @cathro1

She is currently working on Tears of Strathnaver a Scottish novel set against the background of the Highland Clearances.

Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/author/ show/16250614.Sheena_Macleod

She is an avid reader and beta reader.

Moms Favorite Reads https://moms-favorite-reads.com/momsauthors/sheena-macleod/

- 66 -

Reign of the Marionettes. Historical Fiction. 17th Century England

Mass hysteria sweeps through the country with deadly consequences. Beneath the wit and laughter of Charles II’s Restoration Court, political and religious tensions mount, and Countess Elizabeth Herbert tries to keep her family safe. When a minister begging on the streets, claims to have uncovered a plot to kill the King and replace him with his Catholic heir, no one is safe from accusation. When suspicion falls on her husband, Elizabeth’s life is thrown into turmoil.

Women were granted the legal right to vote in Parliamentary elections in the UK in 1918. This right, however, extended only to property-owning, renting or university educated women over the age of thirty. Seven years before this, Frances Connelly, a working woman walked past suffragists protesting outside the polling station in Yeovil, England, to cast her vote in an election. Her vote, and others like it, helped to keep the question in people’s minds — If one woman can vote, why not all? Frances Connelly’s name is now largely unknown or forgotten. Her story is told here within the context of other women who voted in England before 1918, the struggles and complexities of the times in which these people lived and the contributions made by working-class women to women’s suffrage.

As a tangled web of lies and deceit unfolds, Elizabeth realises her husband is a pawn in a much larger game. Caught up in the mass hysteria sweeping the country she’s forced to fight back to stop his execution for high treason. But, how can a woman take on the most powerful men in England? Set at a time of religious and political turmoil, when the fate of English rule is at stake, and it’s impossible to know who to trust ‘Reign of the Marionettes’ brims with historical detail and intrigue. “She reaches into the hearts of people I could never have known, and makes me love them.” -Amazon Reader

“A fascinating read. A story of a woman standing up for what is right. A Rosa Parks of her day so to speak. Beautifully written.” Amazon reader

Reign of the Marionettes is published by Dark Ink Press and is available on Amazon.

https://bookgoodies.com/a/B01NASZF6G

So, You Say I Can’t Vote!: Frances Connelly: The working-class woman’s route to the vote is published by OMP Publishing and is available on Amazon

So, You Say I Can’t Vote!: Frances Connelly: The working-class woman’s route to the vote (with Laura Linham) – Nonfiction.

https://bookgoodies.com/a/B07JZZBFL2 - 67 -

The Woods by Stan Phillips Up beyond Stoke Woods He made his home, the old tramp. Safe, away from town. And, beneath the trees, Spent his time with the foxes, The birds, and squirrels. And sometimes, I heard Him sing at twilight, his voice Crooning on the air. He didn't speak to me, Intruding into Eden. Just smiled, and sang on. That man of the trees With his songs and his mystery. Oneness with the trees.

Chess Supplied by Chess.Com Black to move. A five move sequence. Hint, it involves a queen sacrifice.

Supplied by https://chess.com the #1 chess website. Used with permission. For more chess puzzles please visit https://chess.com You can find answers for this activity on the Mom’s Favorite Reads website here: https://moms-favorite-reads.com/magazines/activities/ - 69 -

When the Doc Said No... by Keith D. Guernsey She wrapped my foot in an old towel, taped it in place and said get dressed we are going to the hospital (we were very fortunate that the very best hospital in the state of Georgia was only four miles away.). I threw on my sweatshirt, a hat and off we went. She helped me to the car and we drove to the ER in record time. We walked in (well she walked-I hobbled) to an almost empty emergency room. She sat me down and filled out the requisite paperwork.

Susan and I walked into the house on a balmy Saturday after a wonderful block party over at the clubhouse and then disaster struck. After a couple of adult beverages (no really ...I only had two!), I ran smack dab into a chair with a very sharp wooden leg. It began bleeding and I rushed to the bathroom so as not to get any more blood on our new carpet. I told Susan that I was just going to put a Band-Aid on my foot and go to bed. Her response was, "look down at that pool of blood on the floor and say that again." Her caregiver instincts took over and she sprang into action.

- 70 -

It was a particularly humiliating defeat for them since the Falcons had lost the biggest lead in Super Bowl history at home in their own stadium. I did my best to assure everyone that it was purely coincidental, and I wasn't trying to rub it in! (Ok well maybe just a little.)

Just then the attending physician rounded the corner and took the clipboard from her. As he looked at it a crowd of half dozen nurses and staff crowded around him ready to help this klutzy old codger. He then said with an entirely straight face, "I'm sorry Mr. Guernsey but I can't treat you."

He proceeded to stitch me up and send me on my way. I'm sure it was just my imagination, but, it sure felt like he was digging the stitching needle just a little deeper as a measure of revenge.

He paused long enough that I started to consider my options. Am in the wrong place? Should I ask for another doctor? Should I go to another ER?

But in the end we shook hands and we parted as friendly rivals.

Just then a Cheshire cat grin broke out across his face. The entire staff behind him broke out in hysterics. He said you are a New England Patriots fan and we don't treat them here. In my haste to get dressed, I had didn’t realize I had thrown on my Super Bowl championship sweatshirt and that the timing couldn’t have been worse as it was right after the Pats beat the Falcons in SB LI.

For more, please visit us on the web at;

https://tinyurl.com/y6ut57ms

Keith D. Guernsey is retired and living on Lake Lanier with his lovely wife Susan and Zoey, his four-footed daughter

thegurns2005@yahoo.com Twitter=@thegurns https://www.amazon.com/Mr-Keith-D-Guernsey/e/B00PR51Q7Y

- 71 -

Coloring Page By Adrian Czarnecki Though I love dreaming up and putting together my Siberian Husky themed children’s illustrated picture story books, Adventures of Hot Rod Todd, I don’t think of myself as an ‘author’ or as a ‘writer’. ‘Story teller’ sounds better. My books are so dependent upon the illustrations. That’s where illustrator Cameo Anderson http:// www.cameoanderson.com/ comes in. Cameo really can see into my mind’s eye interpreting my often rambling page descriptions into works of art; there’s a saying, “A picture is worth a thousand words” and with a children’s book that is so important and Cameo nails it every time and then some. So, for your enjoyment, here is a page from the Coloring Book featuring some of the characters and scenes from the books.

Coloring Book FREE PDF download available via website www.adventuresofhotrodtodd.com

Adrian S. Czarnecki is a semi-retired writer of Siberian Husky oriented children’s books based on an actual litter of 6 puppies born to his Dam Empress Maya and Sire Damien Czar on March 14th 2019. Born in Huddersfield, England, Adrian has travelled the world extensively pursuing careers in journalism, photography, PR / Marketing as well as print and sales. Adrian now lives in Idaho, USA with his wife Meta and their Siberian - 72 -

- 73 -

Word Search By Mom’s Favorite Reads

You can find the answers for this activity on the Mom’s Favorite Reads website here: https://moms-favorite-reads.com/magazines/activities/ - 74 -

Things to Celebrate in April by Poppy Flynn Every day of month has some kind of official celebration and usually more than one! It might be big; it might be small…it might be wacky or downright bizarre!

April 5th - Go for Broke Day

There are over 1500 National Days throughout the year, here’s just one observance of the many for each day in April 2021.

April 6th - Sorry Charlie Day

Is there something you always wanted but never acted on? A job, relationship, a move? Today is the day to gather your courage and take that risk.

I’m sure everyone must know this one. A day for indulging in practical jokes.

We’ve all been rejected at some time in our life. Didn’t make the team, didn’t get the girl or the job or mortgage or a hundred other refusals. Today is a day to accept that whatever happened we survived and learned from the experience.

April 2nd - Children Book Day

April 7th - World Health Day

Of course, this should be every day, but today is a reminder to encourage reading and promote the love of books.

World Health Day has been celebrated since 1950 and celebrates the founding of the World Health Organisation on April 7th, 1948. Each year different countries host events which highlight a chosen health issue.

April 1st - April Fool’s Day

April 3rd - World Party Day

April 8th - Zoo Lover’s Day Before Covid, this would have been an easy day to celebrate. This year, perhaps we should remember that zoos have had a difficult year. There’s often a lot of controversy surrounding these establishments, but the fact remains that some world species would have become extinct if it wasn’t for their work.

World Party Day dates back to 1996 and was established under the premise that people have a right to peace and happiness through social positivity and fun with the underlying concept that party is opposite of war, not peace.

April 9th - Name Yourself Day

April 4th - World Rat Day

In 1849. Inventor Walter Hunt was in debt by the amount of $15 and decided the way to get out of debt, was to invent something that he could sell. He came up with the Safety Pin and on April 10th he applied for the patent which he later sold for $400 paying back the dept and pocketed the remaining $385, which was a great deal of money at the time.

This is a day designed to promote rats as pets. Having had one myself (well, not me, but my kids) I can confirm that they are indeed a great pet.

Hate your name? Want to be called something different? Well now you can change it…but only for the day. April 10th - Safety Pin Day

- 75 -

April 11th - Teach Children to Save Day Created in 1997 (by a bank, obviously) this is nevertheless a worthwhile thing to teach your children.

April 12th - Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day Guess what’s for lunch today. April 13th - International Plant Appreciation Day They provide us with oxygen, filter carbon dioxide and look great as well as a host of other pros, so give a thought to the benefits of plants today.

April 18th - International Jugglers Day. It seems fitting after celebrating Circus Day that we should be celebrating Jugglers. Grab some balls and give it a go. April 14th International Moment of Laughter Day A day to put a smile of your face. April 15th - World Art Day A celebration of the fine arts sponsored by the International Association of Arts (IAA). Take a moment is to spread awareness and appreciate all the different types of art. April 16th - Save the Elephant Day Elephants are the largest land mammal, but their survival is endangered because of shrinking habitat and poaching, this is a day which was created to draw attention to their plight.

April 19th - Volunteer Recognition Day Where would we be without the army of volunteers who give up their time for free for all kinds of worthy causes? Take a moment today to spare them a thought for all their hard work. April 21st Kindergarten Day Celebrated in honour of Friedrich Froebel who was born on this day in 1782. He started the first Kindergarten in Germany in 1837. April 22nd Jellybean Day Jellybeans have been about since the 1860’s and come in a massive variety of flavours and colours, so treat yourself today.

April 17th - World Circus Day Celebrated annually on the third Saturday in April, this event was created to acknowledge the circus as part of our cultural heritage. - 76 -

April 23rd - World Laboratory Day

became a revolutionary means of communication over large distances.

A day for celebrating the place where a multitude of inventions, medicines and discoveries are made and thousands of theories, pharmaceuticals and cures are tested and perfected.

April 28th International Astronomy Day

Astronomy Day was created in 1973 by Doug Berger, president of the Astronomical Association of Northern California, to promote the education and understanding of the universe, so grab a telescope and look at the stars.

April 24th Pig in a Blanket Day Around the world, pigs in blankets vary slightly. In the UK they are cocktail sausages wrapped in bacon, but in other countries they are wrapped in pancakes or even pastry (which is what I would call a sausage roll) whichever you prefer, it’s always a pork sausage wrapped in something, so take your pick.

April 29th International Dance Day Get your dancing shoes on for this day, which was created in 1982, by the Dance Committee of the International Theatre Institute. The date was chosen because it’s the birthday of Jean-Georges Noverre, the creator of the modern ballet.

April 25th World Penguin Day World Penguin Day corresponds with the annual migration of Adelie penguins native to Antarctica, when they waddle their way northwards.

April 30th International Jazz Day In November 2011, International Jazz Day was officially designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation. Herbie Hancock, Goodwill Ambassador to UNESCO is credited with conceiving this day.

April 26th Richter Scale Day Celebrating the birth of American seismologist Charles F. Richter on April 26, 1900. Who invented the Richter Scale in 1935 which measures the magnitude of earthquakes.

Monthly observances include: Adopt a Shelter Dog Month, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Cookie Month, Domestic Violence Awareness Month, National Vegetarian Month, Sarcastic Month and Seafood Month.

April 27th - Morse Code Day Today we celebrate the birth of Samuel Morse on April 27th, 1791 who invented Morse Code, which

Poppy Flynn was born in Buckinghamshire, UK and moved to Wales at eight years old with parents who wanted to live the 'self-sufficiency' lifestyle. Today she still lives in rural Wales and is married with six children. Poppy's love of reading and writing stemmed from her parents' encouragement and the fact that they didn't have a television in the house. "When you're surrounded by fields, cows and sheep, no neighbors, no TV and the closest tiny village is four miles away, there's a certain limit to your options, but with books your adventures and your horizons are endless." Discover more about Poppy on Mom's Favorite Reads website: https://moms-favorite-reads.com/moms-authors/poppy-flynn

- 77 -

Inspiration by Wendy H. Jones Last month I gave you an insight into the mind of a writer and talked about where we find inspiration. This month I thought I would take you even deeper and tell you stories about how I develop these ideas into stories. I also want to challenge you to do your own piece of writing, more of that at the end. As an author, people often ask me where I get the inspiration for my books. I usually say, “Straight out of my head,” which is true. Then I follow it up with, “As I write mysteries my head is a worrying place to be.” Whilst that is a fun answer the reality is much more prosaic although equally as interesting. I get inspiration from literally everything and everyone around me – in other words inspiration is everywhere.

Egyptian dagger exhibit. Most people would think, what a lovely dagger. My mind immediately turned to – I wonder if the dagger is cursed and what would happen if it was stolen. A writer’s mind is exceedingly strange indeed.

Let me give you some examples. My Picture book series is called Bertie the Buffalo. Bertie is based on the true story of a baby water buffalo who went missing from a farm in Scotland. Yes, I appreciate that a water buffalo isn’t very Scottish but, as the saying goes, truth is often stranger than fiction. So, I wrote a rhyming picture book based on this story. I used my imagination to fill in the gaps as to what he might be doing and what other animals he might be meeting, while he trotted around Scotland for a couple of weeks. Now, that was fun and allowed my imagination to run wild. Once you have your inspiration, those gaps not only need to be filled in but sealed with bricks and mortar in the form of words.

The idea for the second book came from a small paragraph in the local newspaper about Scotland’s Lost Broch. You what? For those not in the know, a broch is an ancient stone dwelling of which there are many in Scotland. They are usually fairly large, and one would think it would be not only difficult but careless to lose one. After all, they aren’t exactly portable. Apparently, we managed it. Therefore, I did what any good writer would do and investigated. My investigation led me to a Victorian lady named Christian MacLagan, a spinster of the Parish in Stirling. Our Christian was both independently wealthy and a keen archaeologist. She also did a lot with slum clearances, ensuring citizens were moved into decent housing. I digress. Christian found a Broch and like any keen archaeologist let the Scottish Society of Antiquarians know of her find. This being the early 1800’s, despite being ruled by a Queen, Victorian gentleman were not going to be told their business by a woman. So, they gave her

My Young Adult series, The Fergus and Flora Mysteries, is a mixture of fact and fiction. The historical elements are, on the whole, factual, and the contemporary storyline is fiction first to last. Book one came from a visit to the British Museum and an - 78 -

where cafes aren’t open and not many people are using buses. Stay safe while you are doing your research. Words themselves can also spark a writer’s imagination. I teach writing workshops internationally (via zoom at present. No plane journeys were undertaken in the bringing of this article). One of the exercises I do is to hand out words to the workshop participants. They may have three random words or even just one. Then I ask them to think of three different story ideas based around the words they are given. Story dice are also good for this. Story dice are sixteen dice with different images on each side. Now, I’m a wordsmith not a mathematician but that makes 96 pictures if I’ve got my maths right. Think of all the different permutations of story ideas based on that. They really do set a writer’s brain off in a different direction.

short shrift. It seems like she took the huff, and the broch was never excavated. Having been rediscovered a few years ago they are now raising funds to excavate it. Are you with me so far – great story? My writer’s mind immediately leapt to what if our intrepid investigators were on the dig and what if Christian Maclagan was haunting it. See, inspiration can come from anywhere.

Why am I telling you all of this? Apart from these being jolly good stories and fascinating, I would like to encourage you to try your hand at writing a story or article based on something you see that you may think is mundane. Cafes and buses are brilliant for this – just listen to the conversations around you. Overheard snippets of a stranger’s conversation can set your brain dancing and whirling and spitting out the most fantastic stories. Try writing that story. One health warning – as I am writing this during a global pandemic you may be living in a country

So, my challenge - keep your eyes and ears peeled and your notebook handy when you are out and about – you never know where inspiration might strike. And you definitely don’t know where it might take you. Take a chance, step out and write a story. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to Qing Dynasty China.

Wendy H. Jones is the award winning, international best-selling author of the DI Shona McKenzie Mysteries, Cass Claymore Investigates Mysteries, Fergus and Flora Mysteries, Bertie the Buffalo children’s books and the Writing Matters books for writers. She is also a writing and marketing coach and the President of the Scottish Association of Writers. As copy editor for Mom’s, she works hard to ensure content is appropriate and free of grammatical and spelling errors. You can learn more about Wendy on her website: https://www.wendyhjones.com/

- 79 -

National Pet Month by Melanie P. Smith

April 10th Cover design created to honor National Pet Month

National Pet Month was developed to celebrate the benefits of pet ownership and to support pet adoption efforts. Over 80 million homes in America have a pet. Approximately half of those households have more than one pet. It’s not surprising that the most popular pet is man’s best friend, with over 470 million pet dogs worldwide. The second most popular companion is our favorite feline — with roughly 370 million pet cats in the world. Pet birds and fish round off the top four.

•

36% of Americans give their dogs birthday presents.

•

9 in 10 Americans think of their pets as part of the family.

•

Half a million American households have a pet snake.

•

Norwegians spend the most money feeding their pets, totaling approximately $623 million a year.

•

Fish are the most popular pets in the UK

•

68% of New Zealand households have a pet — this is higher than any other country in the world.

•

83% of Australians have owned a pet. Aussie’s also keep their pets indoors with 92% reporting their cats and 76% reporting their dogs reside inside the home.

•

The most popular pet in Peru is the Alpaca.

•

In China, pet crickets are seen as good luck.

Fun facts about pets. Did you know? •

Americans spend over $50 billion annually on their pets. Nearly one third of these pet owners admit they have had professional photographs — or family photos — taken with their pets.

We are excited to announce that Goylake Publishing has teamed-up with the Fussy Librarian and in partnership we are offering you 20% off your first book promotion with the Fussy Librarian. To qualify for this promotion, your book must be either permafree or listed free during a special offer. In our experience, the Fussy Librarian is the best book promoter in the business. When we promote with him, our free books always reach the top five of Amazon’s genre charts, most often they reach the top three. We promote with the Fussy Librarian every month and will continue to do so into the foreseeable future. Prices start from as low as $15, minus our special discount of 20%. Click here: https://authors.thefussylibrarian.com/?ref=goylake for full details. And, at the checkout, be sure to enter this code: goylake20 to claim your 20% discount. Thank you for your interest. And good luck with your promotion! - 80 -

Brought to you by...

The 1st Quarter issue of Connections eMagazine is dedicated to the love, romance, new growth and spring. I hope you will take a minute to check them out. Be sure to come back in May for the 2nd Quarter edition.

Marketing seems to be one of those areas that every author struggles with. It’s the same struggle companies world-wide have been dealing with for decades. How do I get my product in front of my target audience? Connections eMagazine can help. The publication is free to readers, bloggers and to authors looking for a little extra exposure. Visit our website for details. https://melaniepsmith.com/

https://melaniepsmith.com/emagazine/

Connections eMagazine is a FREE quarterly publication founded by authors Melanie P. Smith and Rhoda D’Ettore. It is currently produced entirely by Editor, Melanie P. Smith. Over the years, the magazine has evolved and it now features promos, freebies, blog articles, and short stories in every issue.

Discover more about Connections eMagazine on their website here: https://melaniepsmith.com/emagazine-landing/ - 81 -

Editor In Chief—Hannah Howe The Editor-in-Chief is the key figure in every publication. Hannah Howe works closely with the editorial staff to ensure the success of each publication. She is the author of the Sam Smith Mystery Series, the Ann’s War Mystery Series and Saving Grace. Get to know more about Hannah, her projects and her work on Mom’s Favorite Reads website here: https://moms-favorite-reads.com/moms-authors/hannah-howe/

Executive Editor | Graphic Designer—Melanie P. Smith The Executive Editor / Graphic Designer is responsible for developing the layout and design of MFR eMagazine. She also works hard to create new covers each month that captures the essence of each publication. In addition to the editorial staff of Mom’s Favorite Reads, Melanie P. Smith also produces Connections eMagazine. She is a multi-genre author of Criminal Suspense, Police Procedural, Paranormal and Romance novels. Get to know more about Melanie, her projects, and her work on Mom’s Favorite Reads website here: https://moms-favorite-reads.com/moms-authors/melanie-p-smith/

Managing Editor, Art Director & Proofreader —Sylva Fae Our Managing Editor oversees the physical content of the magazine and coordinates the production schedule. She administers the day-to-day operations of the publication, manages submissions, sets realistic schedules and organizes each edition of the magazine. Sylva is is responsible for the amazing graphics that appear throughout the publication each month. She works hard to ensure the images capture the spirit and message our author's convey in their articles and stories. In addition, As Copy Editor, Sylva works hard behind the scenes to correct any grammatical, typos and spelling errors throughout the magazine. Sylva Fae—Mum of three, fairy woodland owner, and author of children’s books. https://moms-favorite-reads.com/moms-authors/sylva-fae/

Copy Editors / Proofreaders — Wendy H. Jones and Sheena MacLead Our Copy Editors for Mom’s work hard to ensure content is appropriate and free of grammatical and spelling errors. Wendy H. Jones is the award winning, international best-selling author of the DI Shona McKenzie Mysteries, Cass Claymore Investigates Mysteries, Fergus and Flora Mysteries, Bertie the Buffalo children’s books and the Writing Matters books for writers. She is also a writing and marketing coach and the President of the Scottish Association of Writers. You can learn more about Wendy on her website: https://www.wendyhjones.com/

Sheena Macleod lectured at the University of Dundee, where she gained her PhD. She now lives in a seaside town in Scotland. Reign of the Marionettes is her first novel. She is currently working on two additional books: Tears of Strathnaver and Women of Courage—A Forgotten Figure—Frances Connolly. You can learn more about Sheena on her website: https://www.sheenas-books.co.uk/ - 82 -

Feature Editor—T.E, Hodden As Feature Editor T.E. Hodden works diligently to provide content that is interesting, informative and professional. He is a trained engineer and a life-long fan of comic books, Sci-Fi, myths, legends and history. Get to know more about TE Hodden on Mom’s Favorite Reads website here: https://moms-favorite-reads.com/moms-authors/t-e-hodden/

Marketing Director—Grant Leishman Our Marketing Director, Grant Leishman, oversees marketing campaigns and social media engagement for our magazine. After an exciting career in accounting and journalism, he now focuses on his true calling—writing. Get to know more about Grant on Mom’s Favorite Reads website here: https://moms-favorite-reads.com/moms-authors/grant-leishman/

Young Writer Content Editor—Poppy Flynn Poppy Flynn works hard each month to generate ideas, proofread submitted content, and provide stories, articles, poems and other pieces that are creative and relevant from young writers around the world. Get to know more about our Young Writer Content Editor on Mom’s Favorite Reads website here: https://moms-favorite-reads.com/moms-authors/poppy-flynn/

General Content Writers Our Content Writers are freelance authors who contribute articles, short stories, etc. to the eMagazine on a regular basis. They work hard to make our magazine interesting and professional. Get to know our Content Writers on Mom’s Favorite Reads website here: Val Tobin — https://moms-favorite-reads.com/moms-authors/val-tobin/ Stan Phillips — https://moms-favorite-reads.com/moms-authors/stan-phillips/ Father Ian Muher — https://imaherblog.wordpress.com/

Mom’s Favorite Reads eMagazine April 2021

Articles inside

Connections eMagazine

Inspiration by Wendy H. Jones

Things to Celebrate in April by Poppy Flynn

Hot Rod Todd Coloring Pages

Mum s the Word by Ruth Leigh

Europe by Book by Hannah Howe

Mom s Favorite Reads Author SheenaMacLeod

When the Doc Said No by Keith Guernsey

Black to Move Supplied by Chess.com

Puzzles by Paul Godding

The Healing Reviewed by Wendy H. Jones

Genealogy: Researching Your Family Tree by Hannah Howe

Escape to Simplicity by Sylva Fae

Wednesday s Child by Laura Thomas

The Danger of Indifference by Father Ian Maher

A Brave New World? by Grant Leishman

Heroines of SOE by Hannah Howe