Girl Scout Thin Mint Brownies From the kitchen of Vickie Fisher

Feb4

Girl Scout Thin Mint Brownies

Pre-heat oven 350

Ingredients

½ sleeve of thin mints crushed

1 cup of butter (melted and slightly cooled)              2/3 cup of cocoa powder

2 cups of sugar                                                            1 cup of flour

4 eggs (slightly beaten)                                               ½ tsp salt

1 1/2 tsp (1 1/2 cap full) vanilla extract                      ½ tsp baking powder

½ tsp (1/2 cap full) peppermint extract

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350.
  2. Grease a 9×13 baking dish. (I use the butter wrappers to do this, I hate butter on my fingers) or you can use parchment paper.
  3. Take half a sleeve of Girl Scout Thin Mint cookies, put them into the food processor, and pulse until they are either fine powder or chunky, depending on what you like. You can even put them in a Ziploc bag and smash them up, with a rolling pin, or a heavy pan, (this is more fun and one less thing to wash)
  4. Melt butter in a medium-sized bowl, in the microwave, starting at 40 seconds and going down to 30 then 20 seconds, until melted. Let cool for about 5 minutes.
  5. To the butter add the sugar, vanilla, peppermint extract, and eggs. Mix until combines. This is so easy just use a spoon, no point in pulling out the electric mixers.
  6. You can add the flour, salt, baking powder, and cocoa powder, all at once to the butter mix, or you can do as I do and sift it in. (I like this step but then I am a Grandma). Gently mix the dry ingredients until combined, once again use the spoon.
  7. Fold in as much of the cookie crumbs, as you want.
  8. Evenly spread in your greased baking dish. 
  9. Now the hard part, putting them in the oven and waiting 25-30 minutes for those yummy brownies to be done. After 25 minutes check to see if a toothpick comes out clean. If not lick the toothpick and wait another 5 minutes. Get a new toothpick and check again. If you like them fudgy you will want a little on the toothpick just not a lot if you like them cakey, check them at 27 minutes.
  10. Cool until you can cut them cleanly with a knife and enjoy.

Note: Because the Thin Mints are covered in chocolate this adds an extra layer of gooey, but when they are cooled the chocolate hardens making the brownies firm, like cookies. If you are like me and like soft brownies put the brownies in the microwave for 5 to 10 seconds and they are just as good as new.

Hope you enjoy these delicious Girl Scout Thin Mint Brownies.

Where can you get Girl Scout Cookies

https://www.gsdigitalcookie.com/cookie/Landing/1/c802eba7-9ed0-4569-a4f0-1485f87d1211/en-US

A Gift’s from the Land: Dandelions and Violets

May24

https://youtu.be/2P2KDjpE4zY

Gifts from the land to me are wonderful little treasures that just appear with no effort on my part. I don’t have to plant them, water or work the land to make them grow. All I have to do is recognize them as God gift’s and enjoy them. I realize that most people view dandelions and violets as weeds and can’t wait to get rid of them. But to me, they are little rays of sunshine scattered throughout my yard. And I have come to view them as God’s way of brightening my day.

Did you know that it is believed that the pilgrim bought dandelions with them on the Mayflower? Why, would they do that if they were just a weed? Because there is more to that little yellow button of a flower than you think.

As a child, I would pick them and proudly bring them to my mother. As an adult, I see them not only for their beauty but as nourishment to both my body and soul. Did you know you could eat the flowers and leaves from both plants? That they are high in vitamins and have many health benefits. You will be amazed at how much these two unwanted plants have to offer. I hope that you too will quickly put them on your must-have herb list.

Wild Violet leaves and flowers are edible. The leaves are very tasty and you can cook them like any other leafy green or add them raw to your salad along with the flowers. The beginning of the season is the best time to eat them.

Benefits of Wild Violets

  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Expectorant
  • Helps bronchitis and Asthma
  • Dry and Whooping coughs
  • Lowering Cholesterol
  • High in vitamins A, C & rutin
  • Good for the heart
  • Rids the body of toxins
  • Stomach issues
  • Insomnia
  • And much more

All parts of the dandelion are edible including the roots.

Benefits of Dandelions

  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Detoxes the body
  • mild antiviral
  • Stomach issues
  • High in vitamins A, B, C , D & K
  • High in iron, and potassium
  • Full of antioxidant
  • Helps stabilize blood sugar
  • Lowering Cholesterol & triglyceride
  • Good for the heart and liver
  • Boost the immune system
  • Reduces water weight
  • And much more

As with all herbs ask your doctor if dandelion or violet will affect any of the medicine you may be taking. If you are allergic to ragweed, or iodine, you should avoid dandelion.

Tea

sweet Violet Tea: Use 1-2 teaspoons of fresh flowers, (about a palm full)  to 1 cup of boiling water. Infuse for 10 minutes then strain. If you have hard water like I do the violets will not turn the water blue, I had to use bottled water for the pretty blue. If you squeeze lemon into the tea it will turn light pink. Add sugar or honey to your liking.

Dandelion tea 4-5 dandelion flowers, you can put it in a strainer if you like, I just add it directly into a cup of boiling water. Let steep for 10 minutes. It will have a faint yellow color. Spoon out the dandelion, add sugar or honey, and enjoy.

Violet Simple Syrup

About 1 cup of violets flowers only

1 jar

Enough water to cover the flowers

1 cup of sugar

Day one:

Pick the violets, from a safe place. Somewhere you know has not been sprayed. Rinse them off to remove any bugs before placing them in a mason jar. Cover the flowers with water, put the lid on and let sit for 24 hours.

Day two:

Strain the violet water into a saucepan or a measuring cup, using a fine strainer. Squeeze any excess water from the flowers. You should have a cup of water. If not you can add a little water, if more than a cup just add the same amount of sugar.  Add sugar to the violet water. Heat over low heat until the sugar is dissolved. Watch and stir you don’t want the mess of boiled sugar water to clean up. Store in a mason jar for up to 6 months in the refrigerator. You can use this like any simple syrup in teas, drinks, or recipes, just enjoy.  

Dandelion Simple Syrup

About 1 cup of dandelion flowers only

1 jar

Enough water to cover the flowers

1 cup of sugar

Day one:

Pick the dandelion, from a safe place. Somewhere you know has not been sprayed. Rinse them off to remove any bugs before placing them in a mason jar. Cover the flowers with water, put the lid on and let sit for 24 hours in a cool dark place.

Day two:

Strain the dandelion water into a saucepan or a measuring cup, using a fine strainer. Squeeze any excess water from the flowers. You should have a cup of water. If not you can add a little water, if more than a cup just add the same amount of sugar.  Add sugar to the dandelion water and bring to a boil over medium heat stir until the sugar is dissolved. Watch and stir you don’t want the mess of boil sugar water to clean up. Store in manson jar for up to 1 months in the refrigerator.

You can use this like any simple syrup in teas, drinks, recipes, just enjoy.  

Wildberry Cake From the Kitchen of Vickie Fisher

Aug30

Thank you for joining me on my berry-picking adventure, as promised in my YouTube video below is the recipe for my wildberry cake. Not only is this cake delicious it is easy to make. Since berries are only in season for a short time, I make a couple of these, some to eat right away, it’s too yummy not too, but some I freeze. I Love serving homemade cake at Thanksgiving. If you are unable to find black and red raspberries, try this same recipe with blueberries only up the berries to 3 cups. I hope you enjoy this cake.

Wildberry cake

Wildberry Cake

375-degree oven

1 ½ cup of sugar                                              1 cup of oil

1 teaspoon salt                                                 3 eggs (room temperature)

1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon vanilla

1-teaspoon cinnamon

2 cups of flour

2 cups of wildberries (if frozen thaw and drain)

  1. Preheat the oven to 375. Grease a tube pan or if you prefer a square or loaf pan. Instead of coating the pan with flour which is the usual way of doing it instead, sprinkle cinnamon sugar to coat the pan. It works and adds extra flavor. (4 teaspoons of sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, blend well and sprinkle away). I also sometimes use confectioner sugar. Amazingly it works too with no flour residue on the cake.
  2. In a large bowl mix all dry ingredients with a whisk or fork just to combine. Add the rest of the ingredients except for the berries, and mix until combined. The batter will be thick, don’t worry it’s supposed to be like that.
  3. Gently add the berries.
  4. Pour into pan and bake for 40-45 minutes at 375 degrees.
  5. Let cool for 5-10 minutes flip onto a plate and let it continue to cool.
  6. You can eat this warm, or wait until it is completely cool. Sprinkle cake with powdered sugar or eat as is. Either way is delicious. Enjoy.

Create-My Word of the Year

Jan5


I have never been good at keeping New Year’s resolutions. So, last year I
decided to try something different, the word of the year. In case this is new
to you, the idea is to pick a word as your theme for the year. You pick a word
put it in a place you are sure to see it daily and embrace the action of the
word for the year. Honestly, I don’t know if that worked out for me or not,
because I have no idea what last year’s word was. Obviously, I didn’t put it in
a visible place. But here I am in 2021 picking a new word.

This year’s word is a simple little word, “do”. How hard could it be to
keep? I just have to do this, do that, just do it, and no matter what I would
have at least used my word somehow every day. Even if it was just to “do”
nothing. I was quite proud of my selection. For my first act of doing, I
decided it was finally time to hang a picture my son Luke, had created for me
over five years ago. It is six tiles that spell out create with pictures. I
have always loved it and kept it tucked safely away until I could find the
perfect spot for it. This year I was going to “do” it. Hang it on the wall, and
be inspired.

So I unwrapped it from its cocoon of plastic and went in search of the
perfect spot. It had to be somewhere not only I would see it but anyone coming
to visit would be motivated by it too. It also had to be placed someplace I
would be able to see it from multiply rooms. After all, there are more days
than I would care to admit, I “do” need that nudge to create. Wow, look how
many times I have used “do” already. This is an awesome word.

The only problem I went and changed it. Why would I “do” that? Well carrying
Create around looking for the perfect spot, it started to crawl into my head.
Then I saw on Facebook a word search puzzle where the first four words you saw
were your mantra for the year. The first word that shot out at me was Creation.
Do you start to see a pattern here? Three other times the word create jumped
out at me in some form or another. So, of course, I had no choice but to change
my word of the year.

I like the word “create”. Obviously as a writer I better love the word, but
for me, it doesn’t just mean to “create” an imaginary world, but it’s something
more meaningful. I believe that with every action I “create” something reacts
within my world. My goal this year is to “create” inspiring words for you to
read, and more importantly to “create” a world around me that God would be
proud of. Just think about that for a moment. God created this beautiful world,
wouldn’t it be wonderful to hand him a gift back.

How can we do that? Simple. Smiling at someone creates a return smile.
Giving someone a hug creates a feeling of belonging. Listening to the other
person’s side creates a better understanding. It doesn’t take much to create a
world budding with flowers of joy. Kindness and love can be created by each and
every one of us, with little or no effort.

For me, my goal is to “create” calm where there is none. To “create” a happy
and healthy environment. To “create” a garden of beauty and nourishment. To
“create” new friendships. To “create” kindness. To “create” acceptance and
understanding. Just writing this creates in me a warm happy feeling. If you
happen to see me twirling with my arms in the air, I’m just creating a funnel
of happiness coming your way.

Will I change the world, this year?  I don’t know, but I know I can not
fail. Because one act of kindness will create another act. And like a snowball
rolling out of control, kindness will keep growing.

 

Reflections of 2020

Jan1

As I look to embrace 2021, I can’t help but reflect back on 2020. For so many, this has been a horrible year, and my heart goes out to each and everyone of you who have lost someone, their job, or are struggling in anyway. I truly feel your pain and lift you in prayer. I wish I could wrap you in a hug and tell you someone cares. Because I do.

For me, words could never express my gratitude for how blessed I have been. I can only thank God that this year’s drama has barely touched me and my family. There have been hardships, but nothing we couldn’t face.

I have missed hugging my family, even for a non-hugger like me that has been hard. I know when this is over I am hugging each of them the way my mother hugged. So, be warned an overwhelming hug is coming.

Missing Easter, birthday dinners, and everyone together for Thanksgiving and Christmas has been sad, but missing someone for a few get-togethers is better than a lifetime, of missing them. Other than my heart aching over the loss of a dear friend, covid has barely touched my circle, a few scares but we have made it safely into the New Year. I pray for my family and those reading this that God continues to keep His wall of protection around us.

I’m 65 and relatively healthy, but the threat of covid knocking on the door is real. The weak lungs I inherited from my mother’s side of the gene pool, upped the risk factor, so I have pretty much stayed home. I can count on one hand the times I have entered a store since March.  Which means I am home ninety-eight percent of the time staring at all the clutter I have collected over the years. So, I have started slowly but surely to rid my house of it. I assure you, this will take more than a stay-at-home order from the Governor to get this feat done. I know that somewhere up in the attic is my megaphone from when I was a cheerleader, along with every book I have owned since birth. Well, maybe not from birth but elementary school. Can you believe that my grandkids had no interest in reading the Bobbsey Twins? I am not a hoarder, she protests a little too loudly. Every item leaving this house either as trash, or recycling is a win. Don’t worry the books are staying, maybe my great-grandkids will want them. But maybe the 8-track tapes will go. Today January 1, I pick up where I left off when I started baking for Christmas. Sorry kids, cookies trump purging any day.

I have made enough cookies to feed an army, that’s what happens when you try to find the perfect recipes. Who knew that my mother’s oatmeal raisins are still the best? Which brings me to another plus this year, I have renewed my admiration for my mother. Anyone that can make cut-out cookies with 13 grandkids needs a medal of honor. I assure you there were no cut-out cookies coming from my oven. Maybe another time. I did get to enjoy baking with my daughter and both granddaughters, at different times. My oldest granddaughter Lillian and I made our first pumpkin roll and Tres leches cake. They were amazing. Then my daughter Sarah and granddaughter Willow came before Christmas to made cookies. We only made five different kinds that evening. I was worn out, and once again wondered how my mother did it.

I also had the joy of having a tea party with both of my granddaughters during the summer. I do need to find a fun safe activity to do with my grandson. I have missed spending time with Jack.

This past year, I have been able to work from home, giving me an extra four hours a day, and let’s not even count the money I have saved in gas. I have published another book, read 77 others. And the icing on the year was on December 31, I won 1st place in Xulon-The Christian Author Awards, Christian Fiction category. Talk about ending the year on a high note.

This year more than ever I am looking forward to a bright new future. One free of deadly viruses, and stay-at-home orders. One where I once again can embrace my family. If 2020 has taught me anything it is the value of each moment shared with those I care about. We have weathered the storm of 2020, become stronger and hopefully wiser in our journey. As we say good-bye to 2020, let’s not dwell on the obstacles we faced, but on the knowledge that we made it, no matter how tough it might have been.

As we stand on the crest of 2021 I hope for each of you a year full of love, acceptance, forgiveness, and good health. May you reach the pinnacle of 2021 with a smile on your face and the joy of sharing kindness with those around you.  May God keep you in his loving arms every step of the way. Happy first day of an awesome New Year.

Tulips of Love Chapter 1

Apr19

Chapter 1

The veil between dreams and reality began to lift. Jeff sank farther beneath the down comforter. He reached across the bed for his wife, but came up with a handful of air. He sighed. No cuddling this morning.

The aroma of brewing coffee drifted up the stairs. He stretched then rolled out of bed. Through the window, he could see the sun just peeking over the horizon, casting its ray of light on the hill behind the house. Jeff smiled. The tulips were in full bloom. Which meant today was Tulip of Love Day.

Michelle believed tulips were God’s first visible sign of love. He agreed. This had been an extra-long winter and the flowers were a welcome relief. He pulled on a pair of jeans and a flannel shirt.

At the top of the stairs he glanced into Jack’s room. His son was still sleeping soundly. Jeff whispered to the dog to come. Shadow lifted his head before putting it back down. “I see how it is.” It was amazing how loyal that dog was to Jack. He would not move until the child was up.

Jeff hurried down the stairs. Once the kids realized what today was, there would be no more quiet time.

Entering the dark empty kitchen, he flipped on the light. Michelle was standing with her head leaning against the French doors in the family room. She flinched and squeezed her eyes shut.

He quickly turned the switch back off, then slipped up behind her and kissed her neck. “Sorry about the light. Another headache?”

She barely nodded. “The cold glass feels good against my head.” She moved, letting the lace curtains fall back into place. Her attempt at a smile was more of a grimace. She added, “The tulips are blooming.”

“Woohoo,” their daughter Beth shouted as the nine year old ran to their side. “Can I see?”

“You know the rules,” Jeff said. “No peeking until we are all here.”

Running out of the room, Beth yelled, “Jack, it’s Tulip of Love Day.” They could hear her as she dashed up the stairs and into her brother’s room.

“You would think it was Christmas or something the way you people act about those silly tulips,” Jeff said.

“Silly tulips, hmph.” Michelle put the bacon in the oven, slowly turning her head to look over her shoulder at him. “You can’t fool me. I know you’re looking forward to it as much as we are.” She handed him a mug of coffee. “Besides baseball practice with Jack, do we have any other plans for the day?”

He followed her into the kitchen. “You know I can cook breakfast if you want to go lie down until the headache goes away.”

“Thanks, but it’s really not too bad. Just a little one.”

“I don’t know… you look pale. I bet sometimes even the virtuous woman had help.”

Michelle smirked. “You can help by keeping the kids quiet.” She stirred the pancake mix. “Anyway I don’t think you can make tulip pancakes, can you?”

“Maybe not as pretty as yours.” He winked. “But they would be something to talk about for years to come.”

The kids burst into the kitchen, followed by their Siberian husky Shadow. “Can we go outside now?” they asked.

“Inside voices,” Jeff said, raising a finger to his lips.

Beth lowered her voice to almost a whisper and repeated, “Can we?”

Michelle took a sip of hot tea. “It’s chilly this morning. Go get your jackets.”

“This year there will be more tulips than ever,” Beth said. “I can’t wait to see the pink ones I planted.”

“And I planted orange ones for the Orioles, right Dad?”

“You sure did.”

Michelle stood with her hands on the French doors. “Are we ready?”

“Yes!” shouted Beth and Jack.

With a flourish Michelle flung open the doors. “It’s Tulip of Love Day.”

The kids ran out, stopping in awe at the sight of the hill half covered in tulips of every color. Shadow barked and raced past them. Michelle stood for a moment, admiring the breathtaking view.

“Wow, we’ve had a lot of blessings, haven’t we, Mom?”

“We sure have.” Michelle stooped down to hug her children to her. “It has been a long winter, and God is showing us His love with the beauty of the tulips.” She gave them a gentle push. “Now go pick one of your favorites so we can put them on the table as a reminder… not only of our blessings this year, but of God’s wonderful love.”

Beth ran straight to a pink one and Jack to an orange one.

Jeff put his arm around his wife. “Do I need to ask what color you want?”

“You know I’m going for a red one.” She nudged him and asked, “What about you?”

“Red, of course.”

They held hands as they climbed the flagstone path. Halfway up, the path veered off, only to rejoin, forming a heart filled with red tulips. Leaning in, he picked the one in the center. “This was the tulip that started it all. What a wonderful blessing this flower has brought us.” He pulled her to him. “I love you,” he whispered as he joined his lips to hers.

“Oh no, they’re kissing,” Jack said, covering his eyes.

Beth ran behind them and wrapped her arms as wide as she could around their waists.

Jeff reached down and swooped her up with one arm. He kissed her cheek, then his wife’s. “My two favorite girls,” he said and hugged them tight.

Beth giggled, “I love Tulip of Love Day.”

Jeff winked at Michelle before releasing his arm from around her. He grabbed hold of Beth’s waist and tossed her in the air. “So do I, buttercup.” Laughing he put her down and reached for Jack, tossing him into the air next. When Jack was back on the ground, Jeff grabbed Michelle by the hands.

She started to pull away. “You are not going to toss me!”

He laughed, “No,” then pulled her close and started two-stepping around the flagstone path.

Beth skipped behind them while Jack ran ahead. Shadow yelped and ran from one to the other. But when they headed into the downward part of the path, Jeff felt Michelle stumble. He scooped her into his arms without a second thought and continued dancing up and down the hill with the kids and Shadow parading behind.

“You can put me down now,” Michelle said.

He whispered, “Is this bothering your headache?”

“No.”

“Then I’m not putting you down. Any chance I get to hold you in my arms is one I’m not giving up.”

She kissed his cheek. “I love you so much.”

He grinned at the kids. “Want to hear the tulip story?”

They both clapped, jumping up and down. “Yes.”

“Once upon a time there was a handsome prince who wanted to buy the only red tulip at the store.”

Michelle giggled, “Handsome prince, huh?” He put her feet on the ground but didn’t let go of her.

“That is what the beautiful princess said.” Jeff winked at her.

Beth started to giggle. “I love this story.”

Jeff continued, “Just as his hand touched the potted tulip, another hand landed on it. Now the prince could tell by the dainty fingers with red nail polish, he would have no trouble taking the tulip as his own. Until he lifted his gaze and looked into the most beautiful blue eyes he had ever seen. Then he knew he would willingly give not only the coveted tulip to her… but the world, if he could.”

Michelle whispered in his ear, “You are so silly.”

“Now he wasn’t going to just give the beautiful princess the flower, for fear if he let go of the pot, she would disappear and he would never find her again. So he quickly said, ‘I will buy you the tulip, but only if you go for coffee with me’.” He nodded toward his daughter.

Beth, imitating her mother, said, “I don’t drink coffee.”

Jeff nodded at Jack next and the little boy said, “Well, the place has other things to drink besides coffee.”

Beth pushed her brother. “He didn’t say that.”

Jack put his hands on his hips. “Well, he should have. She was just being difficult.”

Michelle and Jeff tried not to laugh.

“She was not,” Beth argued. “She was being careful. She didn’t know him.”

“Okay, let me finish the story,” Jeff interrupted. “The difficult princess—” Michelle busted out laughing. Jeff rolled his eyes at her and continued. “The princess said, ‘I don’t drink coffee.’ And the prince, being full of patience said, ‘You can order whatever you would like.’ Suddenly she smiled at the prince and from that moment on he has never been the same. Six months later they were married, and they planted the bulb of their first tulip. When it bloomed the next year it looked so lonely on this big hill. That is when the princess came up with the brilliant idea to plant a tulip for each of their blessings.” He spread his arms out. “Ten years later we have a garden of love.”

“That is the best story ever,” Beth said, hugging both of her parents.

“Isn’t it amazing how God can take something as simple as a flower and turn it into a lifetime of love?” Michelle kissed her children before reaching up and kissing Jeff. “My handsome prince,” she said with a grin. “So tell us your blessings.”

Jack pointed. “That orange one is ’cause the Orioles made the playoffs last year.”

“I planted the pink ones because I made honor roll,” Beth said.

Michelle pointed at a variegated pink and yellow tulip. “I planted that one because I have been blessed with the two greatest kids on the planet.”

Jeff pointed to the red tulips. “Your mother and I planted these two for another year together.” He pointed to the center of the heart. “Look at all those red tulips. I bet there are at least forty… and yet we have only planted nineteen of them. One the first year, and two for each of the years we have been married.” He bent down, picked three red tulips, and handed one to Michelle. “When I married you, I never thought I could love you more. I was wrong. My love for you has multiplied beyond words…” He gave a tulip each to Beth and Jack. “…and has given us the wonderful gift of you two. We plant these flowers as a reminder of our blessings every year. I find it amazing that as our love multiplies, so do the tulips. It won’t be long before this heart is overflowing, like my heart is with love for the three of you.”

Beth and Jack flung their arms around their parents, almost knocking them down. Jeff’s arms went around his family. He gently collapsed with them to the ground, making sure he landed on the top of the pile, and started tickling them. The children’s laughter was music to his ears.

Somehow, Michelle inched away and suddenly she was on top tickling him. “Come on, kids. Let’s get him.”

“I give,” Jeff said between the laughing. He stood, pulling the kids up with him. He then held out a hand to Michelle, helping her stand.

She brushed the dirt from her pants and said, “I’m hungry, how about you?”

“Are we having tulip pancakes?” Jack asked.

“Of course,” Michelle answered ruffling his hair. “Why don’t you each pick me one more flower so we can have tulip tea?”

Jeff made a face.

Michelle laughed. “Don’t worry. You can have coffee.”

“Phew,” he whispered in her ear. “I don’t like tulip tea.”

“I know.”

Jeff bent down to pick some of the red tulips for the table.

Back inside, Michelle said, “My handsome prince, would you get the vase from the top shelf in the pantry? Jack and Beth, go wash your hands so you can help me.”

“Mommy, can I get the tulip teapot and cups?” Michelle looked at her daughter. “I’m nine. Not a little girl anymore,” Beth said. “I know to be very careful.”

“Yes. And how about you make the tea?”

Beth clasped her hands together. “Thank you, thank you.” She ran to the china cabinet, and with care she picked up the red tulip teapot, then carried it to the kitchen island before going back for the cups.

Jeff noticed Michelle couldn’t keep from smiling as she watched Beth softly place each tulip cup on its saucer at each of their place settings on the table. Her hand lingered a moment on the handles. With a big grin she said, “Time to make the tea.” Beth hurried around the island. Picking up the tulips she asked, “What do I do first?”

“You wash them.”

“Yes, please do,” Jack said. “I don’t want bird poo in my tea.”

“Oh, Jack.” Beth rolled her eyes at him.

“After you gently wash them, pat them dry, then bring them over here.” Together Michelle and Beth pulled the petals off the flowers, and put them into the teapot. Michelle picked up the whistling kettle, now filled with hot water. Jeff could see her hand shaking and made a move to help.

Putting the pot back down, she immediately said, “Beth, would you like to pour the water into the tulip teapot this year?”

Beth grinned, then slowly poured the hot water over the tulip petals and put the lid on top.

“Great job.” Michelle rubbed her daughter’s back. “By the time the pancakes are finished, the tea will be, too. Would you run and get our blessings book from the desk so we can read it and remember why we planted the tulips?” She turned back to the stove, carefully pouring each pancake into the shape of a tulip.

Jeff watched closely. Her hands were no longer trembling. “It’s amazing how you can do that.”

“Years of practice.” She grinned. “Remember how they looked that first year?”

Jeff winked. “Oh, were those supposed to have been tulips?” He chuckled when she swatted him. “They were very lovely.”

“Hmm.” She handed him the plate of bacon and said, “You can set this on the table.” Then she followed him with the pancakes.

After they said grace, Michelle started to pour the tea. Jack put his small hand over his cup. “I don’t like tulip tea.”

“You have to drink it, Jack,” Beth added. “It’s tradition.”

“Daddy doesn’t drink it,” Jack argued. “So I don’t have to either.” He pulled his shoulders back. “We men don’t drink sissy drinks.”

Jeff saw the disappointment flash in his wife’s eyes and held out his cup to her. “Of course I’m going to drink the tea.” Her radiant smile was all the reward he needed, but he was glad when she only filled his cup halfway. “It is tradition… and with lots of honey, I’m sure it will be delicious.”

Michelle kissed his cheek and whispered, “You are the best.”

He winked and said, “I know,” and held out Jack’s cup to be filled.

“But—”

“Men do what needs to be done to make the women we love happy.” Jeff poured lots of honey into Jack’s tea and stirred. When everyone had their cups in hand, Jeff picked up his own, making a toast with Jack. “Sometimes we have to take one for the team.” Jeff took a sip of his tea, trying to keep his face straight. “Umm, yummy.”

“Yuck,” Jack said.

Michelle and Beth drank from their cups as if it was the most delicious tea ever. Over tulip pancakes and bacon, they talked about all the blessings they’d had that year.

 

The Boss’s Fake Fiancee-Susan Meier

Dec7

5*- Absolutely loved this book, I read it in just a few hours. Mitch and Lila are such enjoyable characters I couldn’t put it down. Once again, Susan Meier has written a story with characters you not only connect too, but also fall in love with. If you are looking for a feel good book that will tug on your heartstrings this is the book for you.

No Regrets Chapter 1

Oct11

Chapter 1

Nicholas McFadden scaled the six-foot privacy fence with ease. Glock in hand, he surveyed his surroundings and hit the ground running. Stone pavers wrapped around a covered pool in the center of the yard, and benches with built-in flower boxes curved around a fire pit to his left. A pergola arched above the outdoor kitchen. He jumped the two steps of the deck. The only blind spot was to his right.

Backing against the house, he cautiously moved along the wall before stepping out, gun ready to fire. All clear. Returning his weapon to the holster, he felt beneath the planter for the key. Nothing. Had his boss been wrong about the hidden key? Or did Capri get here first?

Nick pulled out his tools to pick the lock. His hands shook. His heart pounded. He tried to insert the metal in the lock and missed. He leaned his head against the glass pane of the French door. Focus, man, focus. It’s only another day on the job.

Taking a deep breath, he calmed the adrenaline rushing through his body. Glancing over his shoulder, he laughed at himself. The short dash across the yard hadn’t caused this. It was the anticipation of seeing her again. From the moment he had heard her name—Brittany Fitzpatrick—his heart had been racing.

Get a grip, McFadden, she’s just a woman. No! Not just any woman. She was his angel. The only one to make him believe in love. Love! Where had that come from? He mentally smacked himself on the back of the head. Love was a word for fools. More like lust at first sight. He smiled. Lust, no doubt about it.

Get your head in the game, McFadden. You won’t be any good to her if you’re dead. Nick glanced around the yard. Nothing like standing here and making himself an easy target for Capri’s goons.

He forced all thoughts of the past out of his mind. In less than a minute, he jimmied the lock and slipped in. Brittany, Brittany, Brittany, why don’t you have an alarm system? You would think the granddaughter of a judge would have more sense.

He pocketed his sunglasses, locked the door, and looked around. Open floorplans made his job so much easier. Other than the closed doors, the kitchen island created the only blind spot between the back and front entrances. Gun drawn, he looked over the countertop. No mystery guest.

He ran his hand down the quartz countertop. Had she made breakfast here? Nick took a deep breath, filling his lungs with the same air she’d inhaled. There was a hint of vanilla and something soft and feminine. Not the same scent he remembered. He rolled his eyes. Had he really thought her house would smell like cocoa butter?

To his right was a small alcove. A cushioned bench curved its way beneath the bay window. A half-empty cup of coffee and a newspaper sat on the table. His eyes lingered on an open Bible. Strange.

Cautiously, he opened each door: pantry, bathroom, and garage. He barely glanced at the baby blue sectional sofa on his way to the front of the house. To the left of the front door was a closet, her study was to the right, and at the back of the room, a single French door led to her art studio. Down the hall was a bathroom between two bedrooms, each with French doors leading to the deck. He paused, hand on the doorknob of what was surely her room. His heart skipped a beat when he entered the master bedroom. One glance at the bed and visions of what almost happened between them flooded his memory. He backed out. Nick leaned against the wall, taking a deep breath, before speaking into the microphone hidden in his watch, “All clear,” he whispered, and hurried to the safety of her study.

“Wish I could say the same,” his partner Miles responded. “A few minutes after she left the Maryland Institute of Art, she picked up a tail.”

“Man, why can’t this ever be easy?”

“We’re about ten minutes away from you.”

“Okay, I’m ready for her.”

“After the rough time you had in Mexico, I’m surprised you took this job.”

“You know me…”

“Right. Always first in line if there’s a pretty woman involved.”

Nick harrumphed. If you only knew.

The sheer curtains in the study gave him a clear view of the street. Nick cursed under his breath.

“What?”

“Capri has his boys sitting a few houses down.”

“You sure?”

“Of course, I’m sure. I’d know Tommy’s old Camaro anywhere, and I bet George is with him. Who does Capri have trailing Brittany?”

“Anthony and Dino.” Miles said a few choice words before continuing, “Guess your pal Vincent figured this would be a quick grab and go. If he’d known you were on the job, he would have sent his A-team, not his goof squad.” Miles chuckled. “Can you imagine what Capri is going to do when he finds out you’ve taken her right out from under his nose?”

“I plan to be long gone before then. Tell me again why I’m here. Wouldn’t it have been easier to pick her up from work?”

“Too many people at MICA. You know full well the Capris have no problem killing innocent bystanders. Plus, Carl and her grandfather think you’ll have more than enough time to allow her to pack a bag…”

“What! Are they crazy?”

“Her normal routine is to go for a run about a half hour after getting home. That’s your window to get her out of there. Any longer and they’ll get tired of waiting and come in after her.”

“Half an hour is more than enough time. She knows I’m here, doesn’t she?”

“Her grandfather is taking care of telling her.”

“Good. I hate surprises.” Nick glanced around the study. Bookshelves lined the wall behind her desk and her artwork hung on the opposite side of the room. A painting of a woman kneeling in prayer with Jesus standing in front of her, His hand on her head, caught Nick’s attention. Had she gotten religious? Two framed photographs sat on her desk. He picked up the family photograph and traced the outline of her face, whispering, “Brittany Fitzpatrick.” It’s time to finish what we started.

“Ever since Carl mentioned her in the briefing, I’ve had the feeling I’ve heard her name before. Do you remember her?”

Ignoring Miles’ question, Nick said, “We’ll be going out the back door. Make sure it’s clear.” Nick muted the microphone. No need to have Miles hear their reunion. He studied the photo. Age had not erased the sweet innocent look that haunted his dream. It had been years since their brief interlude. Ten years and plenty of unfinished business between them.

Beside Brittany stood her cousin, Carissa Hathaway. The two of them made a striking contrast—Carissa the green-eyed blonde, and Brittany the blue-eyed brunette—though their looks weren’t what set them apart. Even in the picture, you could see the difference. The scheming Carissa, and the sweet…

No! He wouldn’t let those innocent blues deceive him again. Brittany had the look of an angel, but he knew firsthand she could be every bit as cunning and conniving as Carissa. He put the photograph down. “This time, sweetheart,” he said, watching her red Mustang pull into the driveway, “I’m prepared for you.”

Was he? Then why was his heart pounding? He turned from the window, no time to wonder; in a few minutes, he would be face to face with his angel. Or his demon.

 

Stepping from her Mustang, Brittany glanced around. Ever since she’d left school, she had an eerie sensation of being watched. Although she hadn’t seen anyone following her, she couldn’t shake the feeling. She palmed the small canister of mace attached to her key ring. Roland Park was a safe neighborhood, but it didn’t hurt to be cautious.

Brittany grabbed her briefcase, purse, and the stack of art folders then hurried up the walk. A gust of cold air blew her long hair into her face and threatened to rip the folders from her hands. Her tights felt frozen to her legs. She should have pulled into the garage. At least it would have protected her from the wind and prying eyes. She scrutinized the few cars parked down the street. Stop being a paranoid baby.

She fumbled with the front door key and heard the inside phone ring. Entering the house, she slammed the door shut with her butt, and quickly locked it. Dropping her briefcase by the door and the folders on the hall table with her keys, she rushed to the telephone.

“Hello,” she said breathlessly. “Hello?” The only answer was a dial tone. She checked caller ID—her grandfather. She would call him back in a few minutes, after her nerves calmed.

What’s wrong with you? She double-checked the lock before hanging her coat in the closet. Peeking out the glass panel beside the door, she glanced up and down the street. Nothing. As she turned from the door, the nape of her neck tingled. Maybe instead of a run, she ought to start grading these art projects. It would be much safer.

Eyeing the mace, she said a silent prayer. Dear Heavenly Father. You’ve taught me to trust my instincts… so if you’re trying to tell me something… now would be a good time!

Picking the mace up along with everything but her purse, she took a deep breath. At the study, she pushed the door open with her foot. A few steps into the room, she heard a movement behind her. Panic spun her around; dropping everything but the mace, she sprayed wildly and lunged for the door which clicked shut behind her.

A man’s arm came down around her, pinning her against him. His other hand grabbed hers as he fought for control of the canister. The spray hit her face. Brittany screamed. Her lungs were on fire. The canister dropped to the floor.

She gasped for breath, tears streaming down her face. She couldn’t open her eyes. Her attacker held both her hands firmly in one of his. There was no escape. Suddenly she was lifted from the floor. Her legs kicked, but it was as if it didn’t even faze him. She barely registered the opening of the study door, and then they were running. Fear like nothing she had ever felt gripped her. Where was he taking her? Please God, not the bedroom!

A quiet voice in her spirit whispered, Be still.

A calm settled over Brittany. God was with her. The attacker released his hold on her hands. As he put her down, she lunged away, hitting something hard, she reached out, feeling for a way out. She was in the bathroom; the door was to her right. Could she escape? His arm came back down around her, pinning her between him and the sink. She heard the faucet, and then felt his hands splashing water into her face. “Keep this up until the burn stops.”

Confusion swirled through her. Why was her abductor being nice?

The man pulled her hair away from her face. “I’m sorry, angel.”

Brittany’s heart constricted, whether from fear or excitement, she couldn’t tell. She recognized that voice. She forced her eyes open. Glancing into the mirror, she couldn’t trust her vision. “Nick?”

He grinned. “Wasn’t sure you would remember me. It’s been a long time.”

“Has it?” She tried to calm her pounding heart.

“Ten years, four months and…”

“You know how long it’s been?” she sputtered in surprise.

Nick winked. “I never forget unfinished business.”

The last time they were together, they had almost… Brittany watched color flush across her cheeks. His body pressed up behind her. She shut her eyes. His closeness made it impossible to think. She tried to move away, but his arms were around her, his hands holding hers.

Nick stepped back. He reached for the soap. “Wash the mace off your hands and face.” He went to the second sink and did the same. “Do you always carry mace inside your house?”

“Why are you in my house?”

“I’m rescuing you.”

Brittany cringed at the sight of her red face and swollen eyes then glanced at Nick’s reflection in the mirror. “Looks like the only person I need rescuing from is you!”

“I’m sorry.” Nick’s hand brushed hers and a spark sped straight to her heart. He jerked his hand away, but his gaze held. Gingerly, he placed his hand on her elbow, guiding her out of the bathroom and back to the study. A few steps from the window, he stopped and pointed. “See that car a few houses down? Inside it are Tommy and George, Vincent Capri’s men.”

Brittany involuntarily touched her shoulder. The bullet Vincent had meant for Nick had hit her instead. She thought after saving Nick, he would have forgiven her, but he hadn’t. “What makes you think I need rescuing from someone sitting in a car?”

“They’re waiting for you to go for your afternoon run. Once you do, they’ll start to follow you, and when you turn the corner there are two others waiting to grab you.” He glanced at his watch. “We only have about twenty minutes before they get restless and come looking for you.”

“How do you know that?”

“Because I know how they think.” He guided her back toward the door, “We have to go, before they get tired of waiting.”

Brittany jerked her arm away. “What do they want with me?”

“Haven’t you been listening to the news?”

She shook her head.

“The Capris were released from prison this morning.”

“Impossible.”

“Well they’re out and the first thing on their agenda is revenge.” Nick looked at Brittany. “They vowed to make your grandfather pay for their heavy sentencing.”

“An idle threat.”

Nick picked up the photograph of her parents from her desk. “Your parents were killed by a family member of someone your father sent to jail, and you talk about idle threats.” Putting the picture back, he continued, “Capri’s men are sitting right outside your door, and unless you want to hang around to see how idle that threat is, I’d advise we get out of here. We’ve wasted too much time already.”

Backing away from him, she said, “How do I know you aren’t with them? You break into my house and attack me.”

“Whoa, you attacked me. I just defended myself.”

“You were hiding behind the door. What did you expect me to do? Turn around and say, ‘Hi Nick, nice to see you’?”

He laughed. “I wasn’t hiding. You opened the door, as I was about to—” He touched her arm, “We need to get out of here.”

She took a step back, hitting the wall. “I’m not going anywhere with you!”

“Why not?”

“The last time I saw you, you were making a drug deal with Vincent Capri and now I’m supposed to believe you just happened into my house to save me from him?”

He pointed to the bulletproof vest with PSA written across the front. “If this isn’t proof enough that I’m with the good guys, then you probably won’t believe this either.” Reaching inside his bomber jacket, he pulled out a leather case. With one easy motion, he flipped it open, and handed her his Private Security Agency’s badge. Brittany studied it front and back. She knew how easy it was to get a fake ID. But a vest?

“Happy?” Nick placed his hands on the wall beside her shoulders. Although he wasn’t touching her, he had her pinned. She could barely breathe. The rich warmth of his expression was straight from her dream. He gently ran a finger down her cheek to her lips. She closed her eyes. This wasn’t the Nick she had fallen in love with.

She smacked his hand away. “Don’t touch me.”

His arm came down on her shoulder. “Time’s a wasting, and we need to go.” He guided her down the hall. “I have orders to let you pack something. I recommend doing it quickly.” Pausing at the door to her bedroom, he added, “I believe this is your room.” His eyes ran the length of her, taking in her sweater dress, tights, and ankle boots. “That dress is very becoming, though you could do without the tights.” A soft smile crossed his lips. “It’s a shame to cover up…” He laughed. “Never mind. Unless you want to climb the fence in your dress, I would advise you change.”

“Why would I be climbing the fence?”

“It’s not like we can walk out the front door now, can we?”

“I’m not undressing with you in the room!”

“That’s not what you said ten years ago.”

“A lot has changed in ten years.” She glared at him. “I’m not the same foolish child.” Someone needed to tell her heart that. It felt like the same foolish heart.

Nick laughed. Sitting on her bed, he nodded toward the bathroom. “Change quickly. We have to go.”

Grabbing her clothes, she entered the bathroom and slammed the door.

“Hope you grabbed something comfy. It’s a long drive to your family’s Colorado estate,” he called out, loud enough for her to hear through the door.

Brittany quickly changed into black yoga pants, a long blue sweater, and white t-shirt. Coming from the bathroom, she asked, “There’s no place safe between here and Colorado?”

She tried not to look at Nick lying on her bed. She had dreamed of this day, prayed for this day, but not like this. In her dream, he swept her off her feet, told her he loved her, and they lived happily ever after.

He checked his watch. “Five minutes to get out of here. I’ll help you pack.” He rose from the bed. “What’s this?” he said, picking up a book from her nightstand. Brittany bolted across the room, grabbing for it. Nick laughed and held it over her head. “Hot book, huh? Let’s see.” He opened it at the bookmark and his mouth fell open. He scooped up the photo booth pictures taken the last day they had been together. “You still have these?”

“Obviously.” She tried to grab them.

He held the photos over his head. “Any reason why you use them as your bookmark?”

“No!” How could she tell him in every book she read, her hero had his face? Not that she needed the pictures to remember what he looked like; the vision of him was branded forever into her heart.

“Interesting.” Putting the photo strip into his jacket’s inner pocket, he said, “We’ll finish this later.” Looking at his watch, he added, “Get your overnight bag. Now.” The house phone rang. “Don’t you have a cell phone?”

She started toward the ringing. “Of course I do, but I forgot to turn it back on when I left school. It’s probably my grandfather again.”

“You can call him from the car.” Nick rolled his eyes. “He was just going to tell you about me.” He rushed her out of the room and back into the study. A quick look out the window confirmed Capri’s henchmen were still waiting. “Ironic, isn’t it? Every time we meet, Vincent Capri is involved. Just think if you hadn’t blown my bust…”

“So, you haven’t forgotten?”

“Forgotten! I almost had him red-handed, until you showed up.”

Brittany put her hands on her hips. “How was I to know you weren’t a lifeguard, but a D.E.A. agent?”

“What were you doing there anyway?”

“Instead of condemning me, you should be thankful. If not for me, you’d be dead.” Brittany backed out of the study.

Nick punched the air. “Idiot.”

“What!”

Nick pointed to his earpiece. Unmuting his microphone, Nick grabbed Brittany by the hand. “Let’s go.”

Brittany reached for her purse just as the front door shattered. Nick spun, pulling her behind him.

“McFad—”

Nick fired. The gunman fell backward, blood spattering everywhere.

Brittany threw her hands over her mouth, trying not to scream. Her purse fell to the floor. Nick’s arm wrapped around her waist, half lifting her, and made a dash to the kitchen. “Get behind the island as fast as you can.” They were almost there when the back door flew open. Nick shoved her behind the island and started firing.

Brittany cowered in fear. Please God, help us.

She jumped when Nick touched her arm. “Let’s go, sweetheart.”

“Is it over?”

“No, this is just the beginning.” Nick paused at the back door. “Miles, where are you?”

“Chasing after Anthony. Not sure where Dino is.”

Warily, Nick checked the backyard before taking Brittany by the hand and leading her from the house. Brittany froze as they started down the steps, panic rising at the sight of another dead man. She wanted to scream, but nothing came out.

“Brittany, look at me. Look at me.” He lifted her face. “Don’t look at him.” He wrapped his arm around her, shielding her from the body. Pushing her in front of himself, he said. “Run for the fence.”

She took off, Nick right on her heels. Before he could boost her over the fence, someone yelled, “Look out!”

Nick pushed her to the ground. She watched in horror as the man fired and another man fell through the covered pool. Nick gave the man a quick nod of thanks and she saw him raise three fingers. Were there more?

He helped her up and over the fence. No sooner had he cleared it, than another shot rang out. Nick threw his arm around Brittany, his body sheltering her as they hid behind a woodpile. Crouching in fear, Brittany never stopped praying. Somewhere above the pounding of her heart, she heard the faint sound of a siren. Thank you, God, for sending help.

“Let’s go before Vincent calls in reinforcements.”

Brittany tried to calm the hysteric sobs in her throat. “The police are coming. We’ll be safe now.”

“You’re safer with me.”

“Am I?”

“No time to argue.” Nick grabbed her hand and started to run. She stumbled. “Need me to carry you?”

She shook her head. Not missing a stride, he wrapped his arm around her waist. She had no choice but to run with him.

“The car is just beyond this yard.” He gave her a reassuring squeeze. “You’ll be safe then.”

She stared at the gun in his hand. Fear swirled through her. Please God, protect us from all harm.