December 12, 2014
Looking for a Christmas read that will make your soul feel merry and bright?
Let me introduce you to Candy Canes and Christmastime. Compiled by the lovely Linda Hoffman Kimball. This is her newest book, out just in time for the holidays. Full of insightful, uplifting essays, that remind us how to live. How to navigate all the hustle, bustle, grabbing and giving, of Christmas in the modern world.
I am honored to have my name tucked into her list of authors. A short essay I wrote on spiritual poverty and our need for a Savior. Other more notable contributors you might know: Kel George, Kristine Haglund, Claudia Bushman, Louise Plummer, Shelah Mastny Miner, and Jessie Christensen.
I’d like to give away a copy here (yes, one more giveaway!). Just leave a comment at the end of this post. I’ll choose a winner Tuesday morning and send your book out right away. So you can enjoy a few chapters before the big day.
We tore open the boxes and poured peppermint sticks into bowls…
Recruited our neighbors, the Sorensens, to join us. Then waited for the troops to come.
Cute Cole gave me some of the best smiles. He was so excited to be a part of the magic.
I mean who wouldn’t want one of his floppy candy canes? Already loved and ready to go.
Emma did.
Yes, they came. All our favorite neighbor friends.
Ones we know well, and ones we don’t. Familiar or not, the smiles spread, backpacks jostled and jangled, and the kids came running.
Our darling neighbor (and babysitter) Abby, put her arms around all three of the girls and gave them a big squeeze.
“Can we take two?” the older boys asked. But of course.
It was a warm, glittery afternoon. So unusual for December.
By 3:30 PM, the sun was already low, slanting across the street, leaving circles of light in my lens.
And sweet, sweet Lucy, who usually brings up the rear, couldn’t believe her luck. One of each flavor!”Whenever we are neighborly and welcoming, whenever we learn to overlook differences and decide that love is better than judgement,we celebrate Him.” – Libby Boss, Candy Canes and Christmastime
If you’re doing the #24DaysofGiving, we’d love to hear about it. And don’t forget to leave a comment if you’d like a chance to win a copy of Linda’s book. I’ll even include a candy cane!
Christmas love,
P.S. Elissa! You won the copy of Good Pictures Bad Pictures. Send an email with your full name and address to [email protected] and I’ll send it out! And if you entered the drawing at Power of Moms, check the thread. Winners were posted Wednesday!
Kara
My kids came home chomping on their candy cane gifts and so excited to tell me about it and give Caleb one they had collected for him. Thanks, Cath!
Congratulations on the book! Don't include me in the drawing, but I can't wait to see it!
Kara
P.S. Nice lion's mane, Katherine. Ha! Cute picture.
Unknown
What a sweet way to be neighborly!
ellen
I'd enjoy reading this book.
Denise Schild
I would love this book, I will be losing my job on 12/26, after 25 years, just what my soul needs …. some uplifting.
catharvy
Denise, my goodness – what a prospect. Sending hopes that a new door opens with all the right opportunities. And pleasant surprises. xo
Ashlee
I always love your recommendations! Would love this book, too;)
Meredith Shatzer
Always love good ideas to bring peace to this time of year. I love all of your recommendations and would love to try this one!
catharvy
Meredith! You won!! I'll drop your book off this week. Candy cane included! 🙂 xoxo
The Tremendous Thomas Family
I would LOVE to have this book!! In the midst of my life sometimes and especially this season I feel as though I am standin still wNting something different as the world defines my holiday.
Deb
I love all those photos of the kids and their candycanes!! So fun. Definitely spreading Holiday cheer! P.S. Don't include me in the drawing because I already ordered mine! Love you, Cath!
Suzanne Chapman
I'd love to read anything you've contributed to.:)
Rachel
You guys are just awesome! What a great way to bring on some smiles. I am struggling this year as I try to get my Christmas Cheer on, just feeling run down and overwhelmed by all the distractions of life and the pressures of Christmas financially, emotionally, and physically. I am going to have to read this, looks very uplifting!
Ashley Richards
Cath, that is so neat you are included in her book. I would love to read it!
And I love the candy cane idea from that 24 days of giving.
Emily
I love your book recommendations so count me in too. I love seeing how your family went all out for sharing candy canes. What a fun day!
Monica Geary
I would love to read this 🙂