Inspired by. . . history
It's important to learn from our mistakes. Don't you think?
What do you know about the significant historical events that shaped our Nation? What are your kids learning? Ask them. You might be surprised.
I recently had the opportunity to go to the Civil War Museum in Fort Worth, Texas. This one is unique in its focus on Texas and the men from Texas who fought in the war.
Pictures are a bit challenging, since everything is behind glass. I thought it would be fun to share some excerpts from my upcoming release of Gladness for Mourning, along with a few of the photos.
Available soon!
(From Chapter Three) The silence of the camp rang in his ears, bringing him back to his mission. Peeking out from under the wagon, he could see that the tents around the commanding officer’s had grown dark. It was time to garner the information and locate Miss Cushman.
Sending up a silent prayer that angels would guide him, Dutch slipped out from under the wagon, and moved slowly toward the officer’s tent.
Textured with Kim's bent edges
(From Chapter Eight) She’d tucked her skirts a little too tightly however, and they became tangled around her legs when she tried to stand.
Jeremy was there to catch her when she stumbled, and he held her gently while she worked to loose her skirts. Even when she was free, he did not immediately release her. He simply stood, captivated by the way she felt in his arms.
“May I call for you at Mrs. Osborn’s?”
Having never been held so tenderly by a man before, the flood of emotions that suddenly enveloped Lou rendered her completely mute. She knew she must have formed an answer to the affirmative however, because suddenly a smile lit the doctor's eyes.
“Please forgive me for leaving you like this, but I’m late for my rounds.”
Luann stood dumbly, watching him hurry back toward the hospital. What on earth had she gotten herself into? And what would Mrs. Osborn think?
(From Chapter Seventeen) Seeing the petite brunette burst through the front door of the house, John was glad he had stopped at the inn in town for a bath and a shave before making the final leg of his journey. He was on the ground in an instant, meeting his wife halfway up the drive. She laughed as he swung her around and captured her lips with his. He kissed her deeply, letting go of all the anguish and longing of the last five months. Finally lifting his head, he tucked hers under his chin, and held her close.
“I dreamt of you every night,” he said, his voice low and warm.
“Well, you’re not dreaming now,” she murmured against him.
Textured with Kim's Be Still
(From Chapter Five) Later, as he observed Victoria greeting each of his men, he realized that she had no idea whatsoever of the effect she was having on the soldiers. The rose silk damask she was wearing was one of the most beautiful dresses he’d ever seen. And the color made her azure eyes shine with a light all their own. As the last of his men entered the dining room, Thomas stood in front of Victoria, and took the hand she offered.
“Take care, Mrs. Elliott,” he warned good-naturedly, “you’ll have all of them falling in love with you before the end of the evening.”
Textured with Bonnie's gauze sheer
(From Chapter Three) Lou looked up from where she was sitting, having stopped to pen a letter home for a young soldier. Dr. Edwards was standing quite close, looking down at her intently.
“Yes, Doctor?” Lou shifted uncomfortably under his gaze.
Jeremy forced himself to look away from the magnificent scar that dominated the right side of the nurse’s face. It fascinated him, as did the woman who bore it. “We seem to be short-handed today. Are you up to the task of assisting me with the amputations?”
For a moment, Lou had the very unpatriotic wish that she were back at the convent, far away from the horrors created by this war. “I – I’ve had no formal training, Doctor.”
Sensing her hesitation, the young soldier, he himself facing the loss of a limb, laid a reassuring hand on her arm. “Not a bully job to be sure, Miss, but you can do it. God will aid ye.”
Textured with Kim's Dream It
It was interesting to note the medicines listed in this box. Chamomilla, Crocus, Opium, Belladonna, etc. Depending upon where you live, there may be a Civil War museum near you. I recommend a visit!
Have a wonder-filled day,
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