If you know anything about me, you are acutely aware that I would rather read a good book than do just about anything. Travel, movies, TV, Mah Jongg, and even Karaoke take a back seat to my love of reading. One of my best friends since 1975, Judy B, shares this love. Back in our Dallas days together, Judy used to buy books at Sam’s Club and pass them on to me. One of the books she gave me back in 1994 was At Home in Mitford by Jan Karon. It’s about a small town in North Carolina and its main character, Father Tim, the local unmarried rector of the Episcopal Church. That book sat on my nightstand for about a month before I finally picked it up and then only because I had gone through the stack of library books on hand. I mean, seriously, how much fun can a read be about a single, fifty-something priest? In the first few pages there’s talk about coffee, a half-eaten box of chocolates and a shaggy, mud-caked dog. What could be more intriguing? Well, lo and behold, I just could not put that book down and since that time have read all 13 of her “Mitford” novels plus her children’s books, her “Patches of God Light” (Father Tim’s favorite quotes), her cookbook and anything I can get my hands on that she has penned. I’ve learned to not even touch one of Jan’s books on a weekend so I won’t be tempted to skip church. After all, Father Tim would have something to say about that nonsense! Usually too cheap (frugal sounds better, eh?) to buy books, I use the library all the time for large print and Kindle versions, but I am the proud owner of all Jan’s books. As time permits, I hope to read them again and have loved loaning them to others who became Jan fans. Even Jerry who usually reads nothing but techie stuff, is a fan and has read all of her books. About 10 years ago we were able to attend a lecture by Jan Karon at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville. She greeted everyone who waited in the long line to meet her, and my sister who was in front of me in line was the only person I saw Jan hug! She had noticed my sister Marian’s left hand, severely damaged by a stroke. Jan took Marian’s hand and complimented her on her professional manicure and pretty wig. Then Jan hugged her, and it made my sister’s year! Marian still talks about that meeting with a twinkle in her eye. By the way, neither Jerry nor I received a hug, but that’s OK. It was special to see the joy on my sister’s face!
What I’m doing with blogging is hopefully a blessing to you, a least some of the time. It helps me just to sit down and write; and to quote Helen Keller, “I long to accomplish a great and noble task, but it is my chief duty to accomplish small tasks as if they were great and noble.” Again, thanks for reading and listening. As we count down to Thanksgiving, may you find much to be thankful for……even a cup of coffee and a half-eaten box of chocolates. Perhaps also a messy, muddy dog or kitties who chew up computer cords. Seriously!!!!
Loved the Helen Keller quote!
Always enjoy your blogs. They are a blessing. Take care of yourself.
I also have enjoyed Jan Karon’s books and your writing about them and her brought a peaceful, happy smile to my face! Thanks for the reminder and have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
Much love and a very blessed Thanksgiving Shar !
I enjoy your writings. thanks.
Thank you, Char, your writing reminds me to be appreciating all the lovely people that surround me every day
You can leave one of Jan”s books out for me to read next time I “babysit” your kitties. Have a nice Thanksgiving. 🙂
Loved the blog. I will have to make a trip to the library. 😀Hope you and Jerry have a very happy and blessed Thanksgiving🦃
I love your blog. I too have a few favorites. I love to read and can escape for hours in a good book. I make it a point to have s boring book by my bed, so I don’t read all night.
Thanks for sharing your love ❤️ for 📚!
Never read this author, but sounds like I missed out!
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
My blessings for you and your family!
Enjoyed reading the blog Char. I must go and see if I can find one of her books
Love to read her books. I need to read her latest.
I will have to check out her books. I too use the library instead of buying. Saves money, and space on your shelves.
Hi! My name is Kelly, and I am finally listening to my mother and reading your blog! You may not read comments on older posts anymore, but I just had to say hello as I feel a camaraderie with this post. Simply put, I too ADORE Jan Karon! If you have not taken the opportunity to listen to the audio version of the Mitford series, please find your nearest library and do so today! Best audio books I’ve ever listened to. Thanks for your enjoyable writing! If you have a chance to pop on over to my blog, I’d love to see you there! I will tell my mom (Eileen Cherry) that I finally read your wonderfully penned words.