Secret Garden Devo

  • Reply
    Lara Brace
    September 1, 2016 at 12:21 am

    I am honored to be added to this Class Professor Dodge, reading the welcome letter makes me feel right at home. I am so excited to deepen my understanding of writing.

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    Kristi
    August 30, 2017 at 8:37 pm

    Oh so true! Beautifully said, Rachel. LOVE

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      REDodge
      September 1, 2017 at 4:33 am

      Thank you! I’m so glad you enjoyed it.

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    Tammy
    September 1, 2017 at 4:27 am

    Love this post! Thank you for this reminder that just as in the case of Elijah, our “wilderness” moments or seasons, are meant for us to get to know our savior at a level that we have yet to experience him in. I love how the Lord spoke to you so clearly during that hard season and how you sought after him and waited on him.

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      REDodge
      September 1, 2017 at 4:32 am

      I love this. So true that we get to know Jesus in a way we never could if we didn’t go through those times.

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    Vic Sanborn
    September 11, 2017 at 5:12 am

    What a lovely ode to Jane! Your blog is beautiful, Rachel. I wish you much success with it.

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      Rachel Dodge
      September 15, 2017 at 5:20 pm

      Thank you, Vic! You inspire me!

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    Nina Ruth Bruno
    September 15, 2017 at 12:52 am

    Rachel, this is sooo where I’m at right now! Thank you for sharing! I’m reminded, as the leaves begin to turn color and fall to the ground, that the Lord has his seasons for everything, including the rest of the Wilderness. Sometimes it’s hard to see the wilderness as a place of rest… It seems more like a place of test, but the Lord is teaching me to abide in him, to let go, and to begin to let him live his life out through me. Sometimes I think I want to cling to this old and passing season, even though it wasn’t necessarily an easy or good one, it was familiar, and letting go of it so that the Lord can do a new thing in my life, feels unsafe. The reality is, though, that this is the safest and most wonderful thing that I can do! I love your illustration of the vision or picture that the Lord gave to you about the train station. You see, when the train is pulling away and you aren’t on it, it feels like you’re missing out on something and that’s where the enemy, for me, presses in hard with his lies! So I love that Jesus revealed to you that he was standing on the platform with you and you were exactly where you needed to be… For you, and right now for me, I wouldn’t want to get on the train that’s playing away from the station, because Jesus isn’t on it.

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      Rachel Dodge
      September 14, 2017 at 6:43 pm

      Oh my word, this is so beautiful! Thank you for sharing! It’s like you read my mind. I am so thankful that this spoke to you. Your words and the lessons you’ve learned spoke into my heart as well. Kindred spirits, for sure. May the Lord bless you abundantly as you seek His face!

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    Nina Ruth Bruno
    September 15, 2017 at 12:55 am

    *pulling away from the station, not *playing, lol. Google Voice typing does not understand my California accent lol.

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    Jenice
    September 26, 2017 at 10:49 am

    Wow Rachel this is exactly what the Lord has been speaking to me. Keep asking, keep seeking, keep knocking cause I’m on my way. My oldest son (17) shared with me a week ago about a pastors message he had heard about prayer. The visual went like this, when we pray and ask God for something and it’s according to His will, God begins His journey to walk towards us but after awhile if we stop asking, God stops walking. He wants us to keep asking and keep seeking and not give up, He’s on His way! It may not be answered in a day, a week, or even a year but don’t stop asking. He LOVES to bless His children especially when we continue to seek after Him and His will for our lives.
    Just recently the Lord provided for us in a way that I never had thought. We had lots of expenses all at once and he provided a portion to offset the cost in a way that I could’ve never thought would happen. God is so so good.
    Don’t give up! Don’t stop praying cause God is listening!

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      September 26, 2017 at 12:00 pm

      Wow, I love that picture. That’s a great reminder. Thank you for sharing. And I love the testimony of how God provided for you and your family. He never lets us down!

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    Kyla
    September 26, 2017 at 11:20 pm

    A promise that I hold tightly to is the one from Proverbs 22:6 “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”
    Mainly because i fail daily with my children in the homework department. But- i know that the teachings about Jesus amd our talks about Jesus are not going to be forgotten by them. I get discouraged in my motherhood journey.. But then im quickly reminded of this truth that they WILL not depart. I love this blog!! Thanks for sharing

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      Rachel Dodge
      September 27, 2017 at 8:46 am

      I’m standing on that promise as well!!! I was just sharing it with a friend yesterday. Thank you for the confirmation and for sharing your heart. I know it will encourage other moms who feel the same way. Love you!

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    Nina Ruth Bruno
    November 8, 2017 at 9:08 pm

    Wow Rachel, I had pretty much found myself like Zacharias and Elizabeth, although much more like he than she LOL. Just sort of staggering in circles in the desert, because it is too painful to believe any longer, and yet still somewhere, very deeply, there must be a spark of hope, because the Lord has been speaking this message repeatedly to me through various scriptures and devotionals coming my way the past 3 days or so. And it has only gotten increasingly more frequent. And what He is asking me to do is to rise up from the ash heap and start to believe again…

    One of my go-to verses right now is Luke 12:32, “Fear not, little flock, it is the Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.”

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      Rachel Dodge
      November 9, 2017 at 9:05 am

      I’m praying for you! That’s the perfect verse. I’m so touched that this ministered to you, dear sister.

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    Nina Ruth
    December 10, 2017 at 9:03 pm

    Reminds me of 2nd Corinthians chapter one that says we have this sentence of death in ourselves that we should not trust in ourselves, but in God who raises the Dead. I’m in this place now. I can’t do it. Like the man in Romans 7, I can’t seem to do what I would like to do. I need the exchange life of yet not I, but Christ in me. Of all the Little Red Sea moments in my life right now, the biggest Red Sea is crossing over from Romans chapter 7 to Romans chapter 8. One of my favorite books is Hudson Taylor’s Spiritual Secret, and then there’s also a book that features his story in it, called They Found the Secret, also talking about the exchange to life. This is what I need and pray for.

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      Rachel Dodge
      December 10, 2017 at 9:38 pm

      I’ll pray for that exchange by the power of the Holy Spirit! We all need that shift daily, but I know what you mean about wanting to cross over and see a radical once-for-all kind of shift that sets the tone going forward! I love both of those books so much. We really are kindred spirits.

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    Nina Ruth
    January 1, 2018 at 12:05 pm

    Spot-on and timely, as always, dear Rachel!

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    Rachel Dodge
    January 1, 2018 at 3:10 pm

    Thank you, dear Nina! I hope you are well!

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      Nina Ruth
      January 1, 2018 at 3:54 pm

      I am dear one! The verse the Lord gave me for my theme this year was Joshua 13 1B about how there is still land to conquer and possess! And that definitely requires being brave! 🙂 love, Nina Ruth 🙂 PS I did not know about your book… I would love to know about it do you have a link?

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    Victoria Janzen
    January 4, 2018 at 6:55 pm

    Bravery…something I’m very short on. Thank you for the inspiring message.

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    Nina Ruth
    March 1, 2018 at 3:55 pm

    I do! Thank you for sharing this! I don’t want to settle for busyness as a substitution for intimacy! I feel that I’m surrounded by true Christians, who definitely have a personal relationship with Jesus, but it’s more like getting fire insurance and then you only call on the insurance company when you need something from the policy. I really am starved for Fellowship, but I realize the satisfaction of Fellowship begins with my Fellowship with Jesus! Thank you for a thoughtful devotional!

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      March 5, 2018 at 10:07 pm

      I know what you mean. I don’t want to live like that either. I’ll pray for more fellowship for you (with Jesus and with other Christians) because I know both are so important!

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    Elaine Jeremiah
    March 5, 2018 at 11:34 am

    Thank you for sharing how you feel about Jesus. It’s really thought provoking. I know what you mean and I want more of Jesus too!

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      March 5, 2018 at 10:06 pm

      Praise God! I’m so glad you enjoyed the post.

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    Montaine
    May 13, 2018 at 11:24 pm

    Hello Rachel,
    I have just discovered your blog. I am so glad, it is wonderful. Reading your article was a wonderful mother’s day gift. It made my day.
    Thank you so much
    Montaine

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      May 14, 2018 at 11:44 am

      Thank you, Montaine! That means so much. I’m glad you enjoyed it!

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    Shauna Pilgreen
    May 23, 2018 at 9:42 pm

    It’s theology! That’s good! Thanks for this reminder – you’ve got me smiling!

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      Rachel Dodge
      May 24, 2018 at 10:32 am

      Thank you! I’m smiling today, too!

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    Courtney
    May 24, 2018 at 5:09 pm

    You have a way with words. You’re able to express what we have all felt but didn’t have the words to say. Love the line about carrying her home in your heart.

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      Rachel Dodge
      May 25, 2018 at 7:59 am

      AW, thank you, friend! That encourages me!

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    Amy Jones
    May 26, 2018 at 9:46 pm

    I loved this post! It made me happy…I found myself smiling more the further I read into it. Thanks for the reminder. I, too, wear my heart on my face. Lol!!

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      May 27, 2018 at 6:25 pm

      Thank you, friend!! That’s awesome!

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    Robin
    May 27, 2018 at 11:05 am

    I prefer to read in big chunks of time, rather than discipline myself into a routine of reading every day at the same time or have any kind of schedule. This means I may not get a good read in for several days, because my weeks are full. If I must, I’ll try to catch up at bedtime…then I find myself short on sleep! But if it’s a good read, I find a way! 🙂

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      May 27, 2018 at 6:24 pm

      That’s a good point! I bet there are at least two types of readers. I tend to sneak reading into the nooks and crannies of my day, but I think I probably read the most on weekends when I have more time. Like you, if it’s good…I’ll find a way!

  • Reply
    Melanie Beilner
    August 16, 2018 at 10:04 pm

    This book sounds perfect and I’m excited to find out more!

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      August 17, 2018 at 10:29 am

      Thank you!! I can’t wait to share it! I’d love to have you on my launch team if you’re interested. I’ve been following you on IG. 🙂

  • Reply
    Melanie
    September 16, 2018 at 7:36 pm

    I LOVE this! Your writing is very good! So glad I discovered you! xoxo

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      September 16, 2018 at 10:37 pm

      Thank you! I’m so glad we found each other online. Kindred spirits for sure.

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    Antonina Ruth Bruno
    September 28, 2018 at 11:06 pm

    💖💖💖

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    rachel mcmillan
    October 5, 2018 at 7:18 pm

    you must also read A Tangled Web ( LM Montgomery’s other adult book! ) While I was never able to buy into the Anne of Green Gables books, I always loved the Emily Trilogy and the Blue Castle and A Tangled Web the most 🙂 🙂

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      October 6, 2018 at 8:26 pm

      I do need to read that! Haven’t yet. Thank you for the recommendation!

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    rachel mcmillan
    October 5, 2018 at 7:19 pm

    (I also ADORE Daddy Long Legs! Katherine Reay plays with this trope in Dear Mr Knightley which ( having caught up on your blog archives) I think you would love!

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      October 6, 2018 at 8:26 pm

      Dear Mr. Knightley by Katherine Reay is one of my favorite books!! We are definitely kindred spirits!

  • Reply
    Beverly Mayo
    October 12, 2018 at 1:24 pm

    Hello Rachel,
    I met you at the wonderful AGM in Kansas City. I bought two books and wish I had bought more (for my sister:) I gifted my extra book to a strong woman leader in our community. The very next day, she joined JASNA!! I know you met many people so I will give you a hint of who I am. I came by your table with my mother. We are from Florida. Maybe that will jog your memory:)
    I took a picture of my JA doll with your book and I thought you might like to see it. I wanted to send it to you but I could not find a way to send it. Just let me now if you want to see it.
    Thanks again for writing “Praying with Jane.”

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    V.Clark
    December 14, 2018 at 9:45 am

    One of my favorite way to spend my birthday is with family and friends at home. I guess it’s because I’m older, but like each day, every birthday is a celebration of each year of opportunities and challenges. A reminder of what I’ve learn, and how I’ve grown a little bit more each year from my life experiences. Life is to be cherished of their moments

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      December 14, 2018 at 9:52 am

      That’s lovely! I’m the same. I love to spend time with family and friends. I also have a funny tradition where I ask my parents to tell me a story about my birth. They usually tell me mostly the same stories, but this year when I asked, they told me something new I hadn’t heard before!

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    Becky
    December 14, 2018 at 10:11 am

    I love to spend my birthday with my husband and our children. Our eldest was born on my birthday so we share a special day. Grateful thanks to God for letting us raise 3 of his kids

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      Rachel Dodge
      December 14, 2018 at 2:41 pm

      That is so special!

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    Cindy Kane
    December 14, 2018 at 10:30 am

    A dinner with my Husband and children. Then a quite evening at home.

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      Rachel Dodge
      December 14, 2018 at 2:40 pm

      Same here!

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    Karen Bates
    December 14, 2018 at 12:02 pm

    My favorite way to spend my birthday is…quietly. I’d like to spend it reading, having a nice drink and maybe watching a movie.

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      Rachel Dodge
      December 14, 2018 at 2:40 pm

      Sounds perfect!

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    Michelle Crandall
    December 14, 2018 at 2:48 pm

    I love eating at a nicer restaurant, being with family & having an extra treat like chocolate!

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      Rachel Dodge
      December 14, 2018 at 3:00 pm

      YUM! That’s the way to do it!

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    Irene Justice
    December 14, 2018 at 3:34 pm

    Staying in my pajamas and eating cake!

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      Rachel Dodge
      December 14, 2018 at 6:18 pm

      Pajamas and cake . . . I can’t imagine a better combo!!

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    Laura W.
    December 14, 2018 at 4:01 pm

    How fun! I am sure she would be so shocked at how beloved she is now, and how her works hold such regard for us. I prefer for my birthday to be calm and not much fuss. As long as I am with my husband and kids, all is well in my life. I do appreciate thoughtful cards and treats by friends, as it seems to make my day extra special.

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      Rachel Dodge
      December 14, 2018 at 6:18 pm

      I like those thoughtful little things as well. I have one friend who always drops flowers from Trader Joe’s on my steps on my birthday, even though she homeschools her 6 kids. I don’t know how she does it, but it makes me feel so special!

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        Laura W.
        December 16, 2018 at 9:00 pm

        That is awesome! I think with you knowing how busy she is, and that she makes the effort to do that for you makes it even more special.

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    Jenny
    December 14, 2018 at 4:19 pm

    My favorite is with my family. It has to include my 91 &. 93 yr old aunt and uncle. That’s how it’s been and always will be until they pass on…

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      December 14, 2018 at 6:17 pm

      That sounds perfectly delightful!

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    kara
    December 14, 2018 at 6:24 pm

    I love just spending my birthday with my family with a special dinner!!!

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      December 15, 2018 at 10:51 am

      Sounds perfect!

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    Patti Villavicencio
    December 14, 2018 at 6:50 pm

    Since my birthday is on December 26, 1952, I’ve continued the tradition my mother started…..lunch and shopping the after Christmas sales. I now enjoy that time with my daughter!

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      December 15, 2018 at 10:50 am

      That is the best idea for a Christmas birthday. My dad’s birthday is December 28, and we always struggle to find a way to make it special after all the hoopla.

  • Reply
    alisha woods
    December 14, 2018 at 7:26 pm

    Put up the Christmas 🌲

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      December 15, 2018 at 10:49 am

      How nice!

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    Martha Troxel
    December 14, 2018 at 8:58 pm

    I like to go to thrift shops.

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      December 15, 2018 at 10:49 am

      Sounds great! I do love to do some shopping somewhere around my birthday.

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    Marissa
    December 14, 2018 at 9:23 pm

    I love to spend my birthday with just my family. I have 6 siblings, when we are all together at home with the parents you can’t beat that!

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      December 15, 2018 at 10:48 am

      How special! I bet it’s a great time with everyone together.

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    Julie B
    December 14, 2018 at 9:33 pm

    My favorite way to spend my birthday is celebrating with my sister. Our birthdays are one week apart. We usually celebrate together with our families, our parents and one of of our brothers by going out to eat at our favorite mexican restaurant over a weekend. This year we will probably do the same thing. Although my sister said she would like for us to do a sisters day out around our birthdays.

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      December 15, 2018 at 10:48 am

      That sounds so fun!! A sisters day out sounds pretty fabulous, too.

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    Kim H in GA
    December 17, 2018 at 10:17 am

    a meal with my husband (maybe my teen and tween–ha), finding and reading birthday mail, time outside and time reading or watching a favorite movie

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    Kelly
    January 7, 2019 at 4:40 am

    Thank you for the wonderful resources and encouragement!

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      January 8, 2019 at 12:48 pm

      You’re welcome, Kelly. Thank you for your note!

  • Reply
    Eve Scott
    January 11, 2019 at 8:48 am

    “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” ~ Mark 11:24 ~ NLT

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    Kelly
    January 16, 2019 at 7:11 am

    Oh my goodness, yes! I will need to pick this one up. With our many moves, I struggle with the need to be rooted. I usually end up so inward focused in an effort to feel settled. Even in my need for community, I can struggle with reaching out. Thank you for sharing your heart & perspective on this book!

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      January 16, 2019 at 9:06 am

      I love this, Kelly! I struggle with that as well. I get involved in my own little world and community. She shares so many creative ways to love the people around us. I think you’ll love the book. It feels like a conversation with a friend as you read.

    • Reply
      Shauna Pilgreen
      January 16, 2019 at 1:52 pm

      Kelly, oh I hope you’ll be encouraged. You must have quite the stories! Praying God blesses you right where you are!

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    Shauna Pilgreen
    January 16, 2019 at 2:34 pm

    Rachel, thank you for all the kind words and for introducing me to your friends here on your blog!

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    Kim H in GA
    February 4, 2019 at 11:30 am

    Congratulations! What a perfect gift for the centre and its guests.

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      February 7, 2019 at 6:30 pm

      Thank you, Kim!

  • Reply
    Kevin Lindsey
    February 5, 2019 at 7:58 am

    That is wonderful news, congratulations! It’s almost like an Austen validation of your work and what you sensed from God in prayer. He does move in mysterious ways!
    Since you asked, here in Michigan, like a lot of the Midwest, we’ve just come out of the polar vortex. Here it was -15F with -40 windchills. We had 2 beautiful days and now they’re predicting an ice storm. Ugh. Allall we can do is grin and bear it. Congratulations again.

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      February 7, 2019 at 6:29 pm

      Wow, it sounds cold there! I think it’s cold when it freezes overnight. Alas, I confess I’m a wimpy Northern Cali girl!

      Isn’t it amazing to stand back and ponder God’s ways at times? I think we notice it more when we slow down, don’t you?

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    Claudia Sandoni
    February 7, 2019 at 1:52 am

    Congratulations, Rachel!
    Now that I am halfway through reading your lovely book I wish to add my praise to the many ones it has already received.
    I am really enjoying my time praying with Jane and I love the bits from the Bible that you put in; they give a greater insight into the prayers.
    (Thank you for your dedication inside the book!)

    Claudia

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      February 7, 2019 at 6:25 pm

      Thank you, Claudia! It’s great to hear from you. I’m so glad you’re enjoying the book! That blesses my heart!

  • Reply
    Judy Gordon Morrow
    March 7, 2019 at 12:02 am

    Wonderful post, dear Rachel! I so concur with all you wrote and wish that every believer could read it. Too many fires, I’m afraid, have grown cold, and it’s happened so gradually that the dying embers haven’t even been noticed. Thanks for speaking truth with eloquence and gentle compassion.

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      March 17, 2019 at 4:32 pm

      Thank you, Judy! This encourages me so much. xoxo

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    Sandra Grahl
    March 15, 2019 at 10:09 am

    Thanks so much for the above blog on keeping the faith fires burning – much needed. May God bless you and keep you, may His face shine upon you and fill you with peace!

  • Reply
    Judy Gordon Morrow
    April 2, 2019 at 6:31 pm

    Beautiful post, Rachel! Now I want to read that book; it sounds delightful. I am so grateful for the times of refreshment God gives me, and I’m glad you’re encouraging others to listen to our Lord’s “Come away.”
    And I loved hearing how Jesus made you stop in your tracks before you knew him personally. That encourages me in my prayers for others.

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      April 6, 2019 at 12:20 pm

      Thank you, dearest Judy! I love that he stops us in our tracks as you say. I think we need daily reminders to stop and be still with him!

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    Stephanie
    April 3, 2019 at 7:57 am

    As I listen to the morning sounds of singing birds surrounding my home, I read your lovely words of Hope.
    The busyness of everyday life can easily take over and we miss His beauty all around us.
    Thank you.
    Psalm 46:10
    10 He says, “Be still, and know that I am God;
    I will be exalted among the nations,
    I will be exalted in the earth.”

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      April 3, 2019 at 4:39 pm

      Thank you for sharing this! So lovely. That’s the perfect verse. I pray it at night if I can’t sleep or when something is weighing heavy on my heart.

  • Reply
    Kristi Rapoza
    April 8, 2019 at 6:15 pm

    So beautifully wittten, Rachel. How precious a relationship with our sweet savior can be. I love how you remind us he is beckoning us to come away with him and let Him give us peace and rest and fresh vision. You brought to life such sweet imagery in my mind of the many times in the past He has met me in those special places on a bench or a sandy beach or just in my closet on my knees.

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      April 10, 2019 at 8:42 am

      Thank you, Kristi! This warms my heart. I think of those special times away with him and it draws me to him again! xo

  • Reply
    Stephanie Bacon
    April 12, 2019 at 9:34 pm

    “In the midst of change, God broadens and expands our territories and our hearts so that we can embrace what’s ahead and open our arms to the “more” he has planned.”
    I have also experienced a year of change as my oldest went off to Azusa Pacific University. That daily home connection – conversation – hugs – knowledge of where he is and what he is doing is gone.
    I had to grieve the loss and also trust that God has him.
    The question entered my mind and heart, Who am I separate from being my boys mom, a wife, a daughter, a friend, a teacher?
    God reminded me – I am a daughter of the one true King.
    Change is inevitable in this life and God love is eternal. The older I get the more time I spend at the feet of Jesus.
    Just Keep Praying 🙏 and moving forward.
    (I just told a friend today that the older I get the more time I spend in prayer.)

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      April 13, 2019 at 11:41 am

      Thank you for sharing this and for your encouragement! It’s so good to be reminded of who I am in Christ. And more time at the feet of Jesus has been HUGE for me in this season. Praise God!

  • Reply
    Brenda Cox
    April 13, 2019 at 3:04 am

    Thanks for sharing this, Rachel. I’m about to enter a major time of transition and am stressed out already. We do need to say goodbyes well, but then look forward. The uncertainty, and the possibilities of failure, are part of my struggles.
    May the Lord give you joy in your new community!

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      April 13, 2019 at 11:39 am

      Thank you, dear sister. It really is difficult. Some of the change we’re going through has been good and some has been hard and discouraging. I have to remind myself to set my eyes on Christ hourly some days, but he always comes through and always gives me new perspective. My time in the Word and in prayer has been so rich because I’m so desperate for him!

      • Reply
        Brenda Cox
        April 13, 2019 at 12:02 pm

        Amen. He loves us to be totally dependent on Him. It’s through the pain that we grow, but that doesn’t make it easier, I think!

  • Reply
    Natalie young
    April 13, 2019 at 4:04 am

    I’m enjoying your blog and love my Praying
    with Jane book . Thanks Natalie Young

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      April 13, 2019 at 11:38 am

      Thank you for letting me know!! God bless you! Please keep in touch. xo

  • Reply
    Kelly
    April 13, 2019 at 6:32 am

    Such beautiful truth! I love that Jesus leaves us examples in the Old Testament to speak to our journey today. Set your eyes on Jesus and do not be shaken, and know that you’re not alone on this adventure.

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      April 13, 2019 at 11:37 am

      So true! Thank you for this encouragement. I think feeling alone in it is the hardest part at times!

  • Reply
    Nina Ruth
    May 3, 2019 at 4:03 pm

    Sooo timely, beautiful friend! I even had just reminded myself to have “Courage, Dear heart,” a couple of days ago by putting the words on my phone screen. Beautifully written reminder of the Lord’s work behind the scenes.

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    Jane Austen Fan
    May 26, 2019 at 12:40 pm

    As a former high school English teacher who taught Jane Austen’s works, I found Praying with Jane a delightful companion for my devotional times. I also read widely on prayer and found Rachel Dodge’s reflections on prayer insightful. This book is a lovely gift.

  • Reply
    Nina Ruth
    May 29, 2019 at 1:15 pm

    My cousin and I are reading through Persuasion, and obsessively watch the movie probably once every 10 days or so as has been my habit since it actually came out in the 90s. I sure do miss watching it with my mother who enjoyed it immensely. The scene is one of my favorites in the film, although the film doesn’t do justice to the scene as the book does. Right now I am sitting in a middle eastern restaurant with my cousin eating baklava and drinking Persian Tea, and we have just read this article.

    Cousin Jacqueline and I agree that we think initially the conversation would have turned towards the events at Lyme oh, and Louisa, and possibly not actually from there might have brought the opening that he sought to renew their relationship.

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      May 30, 2019 at 2:21 pm

      What a lovely conversation – I really think there could be some fan fiction in there somewhere! And hooray for baklava and Persian Tea. YUM!

  • Reply
    Natalie Young
    May 29, 2019 at 4:14 pm

    Hi Rachel, this is a beautiful book. Where do you get all these beautiful books you
    put up? Amazon or antique shops? Romance is a dying thing, but God is gentle and caring. 🙏❤️

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      May 29, 2019 at 4:33 pm

      A lot of my older books are from when I was growing up, but most of my new books are from Amazon or AbeBooks. This edition is still available on Amazon I believe!

  • Reply
    Brenda Cox
    May 29, 2019 at 5:24 pm

    I recently bought a needle minder (something to stick your needle to when you are embroidering) with this picture and the caption “Pride and Prejudice”! I thought it was entertaining to have a reminder of both Persuasion and Pride and Prejudice all in one, since I love them both. 🙂 Thanks for this expansion on why Wentworth had an umbrella; I never thought about that before!

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      May 30, 2019 at 2:23 pm

      This was a fun bit of dreaming I did when I saw that painting. I really wonder if Wentworth would have carried am umbrella if he was there in Bath on some kind of business. I believe he was hoping to share that umbrella with someone who “sinks” her voice.

  • Reply
    Jarm Del Boccio
    July 9, 2019 at 6:26 pm

    I enjoyed your answers, Rachel. And now I have new blogs to follow! Thanks for participating and enjoy the remainder of your summer. Glad you are content to live at home.☺️

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      July 9, 2019 at 9:16 pm

      This was so fun! Thank you for including me!

  • Reply
    Michelle Ule
    July 10, 2019 at 7:15 am

    Why, thank you, Rachel!

  • Reply
    Nina Ruth
    September 5, 2019 at 10:40 am

    Oh, my heart!😍 the Lord is doing this in my life as well. Such a confirmation that we are wise to leave everything in his Loving Hands. We pray, we often water seeds with tears, but only God brings the increase, and it’s often far beyond what we ever could have dreamed. So happy for you as the Lord is encouraging your heart with His dreams come true! 💖

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      October 27, 2019 at 4:22 pm

      I’n so so glad this encourage you!!! Love you, friend!

  • Reply
    Jarm Del Boccio
    September 5, 2019 at 1:59 pm

    I am so where you are today, Rachel! Watching God work in me and the book He inspired me to write. Each baby step reveals His perfect will for my life. So exciting to see this happening in your author’s journey, too. Carry on in the strength of the Lord!

  • Reply
    Natalie
    September 5, 2019 at 11:28 pm

    Oh wow this is happening to me at present . My emotional state was not good yesterday but today praise god I’m much better . Being hurt and afraid are powerful feelings , but we can always trust and have faith God will see us through these times
    Thanks so much Rachel ❤️

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      October 27, 2019 at 4:21 pm

      I’m so glad it encouraged you!!

  • Reply
    Kelly
    September 6, 2019 at 4:04 am

    Thank you, such a good reminder. Those small moments of victory really do matter & I need to pay closer attention to them.

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      October 27, 2019 at 4:20 pm

      Thank you, Kelly! I’ve been thinking about small victories a lot this month!

  • Reply
    Rachel Dodge
    October 27, 2019 at 4:24 pm

    Thank you, Jarm! It’s wonderful to see your author journey unfold, too!

  • Reply
    Mindy
    October 29, 2019 at 11:07 am

    I LOVE Anne of Green Gables and I can’t wait for your new project to hit the shelves!

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      October 30, 2019 at 4:17 pm

      Thank you, Mindy! I’m super excited, too!!!

  • Reply
    Courtney Pletcher
    October 30, 2019 at 6:13 am

    Ah! I am beyond excited for you and am absolutely looking forward to this book the most! Please keep us updated! I still thumb through Praying with Jane revisiting my favorites!

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      October 30, 2019 at 4:16 pm

      Thank you, Courtney! I will definitely keep you posted!!

  • Reply
    Emily
    October 30, 2019 at 1:24 pm

    I’m SO excited for this book! What a gift! There are so many great scenes in Anne of Green Gables. I think a favorite of mine is when Anne is stuck on the pilings under the bridge and Gilbert (tries) to come to her rescue. 🙂

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      October 30, 2019 at 4:16 pm

      Thank you, Emily!! And that’s such a good scene. I’ve got it down. Thanks for your input!

  • Reply
    Melanie
    November 15, 2019 at 2:28 pm

    Dear Rachel,
    Congrats on your new devotional based on Anne of Green Gables! How wonderful! Because it’s my favorite book and movie, it’s hard to pick just one favorite scene…

    just off the top of my head:
    “why must people kneel down to pray?” and her ideas of Praying and talking to God

    I think of Marilla telling Davey, in Road to Avonlea, that we must tell Him how we feel and what we are thinking

    Also, I watched Anne with an E and fast forwarded all the parts that were dark, too emotional or against my morals…basically I was thrilled with the videography of Anne and her courageous love of life and nature and her tenacity against all the odds against her; these scenes inspired me deeply. When she went to the ocean for a picnic, when she walked through the forest and orchestrated the animals while feeling the awe and wonder and rapture of the beauty and golden light, when she walked to her favorite tree and hugged it and gave it a gift

    That’s all for now,
    Melanie

  • Reply
    Mia White
    March 6, 2020 at 2:17 pm

    HOW am I just now stumbling upon your blog?? Love, love, love it all! Lorelei Craker’s insta-post pointed me in your direction… and it’s splendid indeed to find another true kindred spirit. Warm regards and a swift blog follow from: a Tolkien-loving bookworm mom to an Arwyn (et al), who just visited PEI last summer and just wrapped a re-read of Emma in preparation for the cinema (matinee tix secured), tomorrow.

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      March 7, 2020 at 10:49 am

      I LOVE her! I’m so glad you found me here — we are kindred spirits for sure!! So much in common!

  • Reply
    Laura
    March 7, 2020 at 8:47 am

    I am looking forward to seeing the movie and have a ticket!

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      March 7, 2020 at 10:48 am

      How fun!! Enjoy!

  • Reply
    Charlotte Flanagan
    March 7, 2020 at 8:58 am

    Haven’t seen it yet. It just came to the movie theater where I live. I’m looking forward to seeing it soon.

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      March 7, 2020 at 10:48 am

      I hope you get to go!

  • Reply
    zoe
    March 7, 2020 at 9:02 am

    Hi, Rachel. I am planning to see the film. Think it sounds fun, though some aspects of it I won’t care for as I like staying true to the novel as much as possible. Thank you for the give-away. Emma may be my favorite J.A., though Anne my favorite heroine.

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      March 7, 2020 at 10:47 am

      We are kindred spirits for sure. I think Emma is my favorite JA as well. And Anne will always be my favorite heroine! I really hope this version stays close to the book, though I’m sure it will take a few liberties.

  • Reply
    Cindy Kane
    March 7, 2020 at 9:03 am

    So excited. Definitely getting ready to go see Emma. Already pre-ordered the DVD too!

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      March 7, 2020 at 10:47 am

      Me, too! I think a watch party with some local friends will be in order when it comes to DVD.

  • Reply
    Antonina Ruth Bruno
    March 7, 2020 at 9:07 am

    3.5 stars. I won’t say more until you’ve seen it, other than that this is to the 2009 Emma what the 2005 Pride and Prejudice is to the 1995 Pride and Prejudice. It is reimagined and condensed. However, I loooove the music, and the costumes were so fun! A lot of quirky fabric and style anachronisms and they show the total flexibility of designer Alexandra Byrne, who went with such a reserved and soft color palette route with the 1995 Persuasion.

    Also, Robert Martin gets his own theme song, which is awesome! Listen for it whenever they’re at his property! 😍

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      March 7, 2020 at 10:46 am

      Love it!! xo

  • Reply
    Kim
    March 7, 2020 at 9:08 am

    I hope to see the new movie soon. I loved the last version with Gwyneth Paltrow. From the commercials, this one looks very funny!!

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      March 7, 2020 at 10:45 am

      Yes, it looks so humorous!

  • Reply
    Sommer Sorenson
    March 7, 2020 at 9:21 am

    I’ve already subscribed to your lovely blog and I do very much intend on seeing the new movie, but I may have to wait until it is out on dvd/blu ray as it does not look like my theater has it 🙁 boo!

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      March 7, 2020 at 10:45 am

      Thank you for entering and following along with my blog! I am hoping to do a movie night with friends when it comes out on video. I think it’s limited in theaters in some cities.

  • Reply
    Patricia Villavicencio
    March 7, 2020 at 10:01 am

    I already subscribe and follow! Can’t wait to see Emma!

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      March 7, 2020 at 10:44 am

      Me, too! Thanks for entering and following!

  • Reply
    Lori Davis
    March 7, 2020 at 10:36 am

    The Gwyneth Paltrow Emma is my very favorite movie but am looking forward to the new one.

  • Reply
    Mary Miller
    March 7, 2020 at 10:53 am

    Loved the movie! I love Emma!

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      March 7, 2020 at 11:08 am

      Oh, yay! I LOVE love love Emma!

  • Reply
    Denise Harmer
    March 7, 2020 at 10:59 am

    I can’t wait to see it! Emma is my favorite novel of hers. 😃

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      March 7, 2020 at 11:08 am

      Me, too!!!

  • Reply
    Krissy
    March 7, 2020 at 11:05 am

    Well, I Think my new movie buddy will agree… 4.5. The filming and costuming and color was absolutely stunning.

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      March 7, 2020 at 11:07 am

      YES!!

  • Reply
    Junemarie Brandt
    March 7, 2020 at 11:53 am

    I saw the movie and was delighted. And I had not expected to like it.

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      March 7, 2020 at 12:17 pm

      Oh, good! I didn’t know what to expect either!

  • Reply
    Lila Diller
    March 7, 2020 at 12:02 pm

    I haven’t seen it yet, as our town’s movie theatre just closed last week. 🙁 I’m hoping to see it, but it may not be until it comes out DVD or on Netflix. I’m very picky about the adaptations of her novels. My favorite is the 5-hr P&P version by A&E with Colin Firth and Jennifer Ehle. The closest Emma adaption, IMHO, is the one with Kate Beckinsale as Emma. But Jane Austen is my favorite author (I even blogged about how she has influenced my writing at https://www.liladiller.com/blog/comparing-jane-austen-to-lila-dillers-love-is-series).

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      March 7, 2020 at 12:16 pm

      Thank you for sharing. Your writing looks intriguing! I am picky as well. This one might not be for the purist, but I still love seeing the different versions to see how they are done. The costuming alone looks quite beautiful!

  • Reply
    Audrey Stewart
    March 7, 2020 at 1:05 pm

    I am going to see Emma. I can’t wait! I love all the Jane Austen books.

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      March 8, 2020 at 9:06 am

      Oh, good! I do, too!

  • Reply
    Patrice Doten
    March 7, 2020 at 3:25 pm

    I’m already a newsletter subscriber and IG follower! I haven’t seen the new adaptation yet, and am still on the fence about whether to see it in the theater or wait til it’s out on DVD/streaming.

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      March 8, 2020 at 9:07 am

      Hi, Patrice! Great to hear from you! I got to see it this weekend. Can’t wait to write about it this week. xo

  • Reply
    Linda Tewalt
    March 7, 2020 at 4:35 pm

    Will wait until it is available on DVD!

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      March 8, 2020 at 9:08 am

      You should have a watch party with some other Austen fans!

  • Reply
    Paula Sutcliffe
    March 7, 2020 at 7:21 pm

    Oh I am so ambivalent about seeing the movie. I love the book so much and am
    reluctant to see it in case it strays, and possibly even parodies the theme of the book. Will probably see it though, the trailer does look tempting. I hope for the best!

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      March 8, 2020 at 9:08 am

      I totally understand. I couldn’t help myself. I want to know about it for myself!

  • Reply
    Joy Prevost
    March 8, 2020 at 7:25 am

    The new Emma is a delight! The production quality is brilliant – a feast for the eyes. I’d love to see it again.

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      March 8, 2020 at 9:08 am

      Hi, Joy! I just got to see it this weekend. I agree!!

  • Reply
    Kevin Lindsey
    March 22, 2020 at 12:28 pm

    What a lovely idea. Thanks for coming up with it. Together virtually we can pray for ourselves and each other, for comfort and healing in this unprecedented time.

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      March 22, 2020 at 7:24 pm

      Yes, we can! I think it helps bring us closer together to know we are praying together!

  • Reply
    Lisa
    March 23, 2020 at 11:16 pm

    Thank you so much for sharing this right now. It is so encouraging to me.

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      March 24, 2020 at 7:09 am

      I’m so glad to hear that! May the Lord bless you and keep you today! xo

  • Reply
    Jarm Del Boccio
    March 24, 2020 at 8:53 am

    Thanks for giving of yourself in these posts, Rachel. They are an encouragement. I don’t want to waste this precious free time, so I am praying I will use it wisely!

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      March 27, 2020 at 3:07 pm

      I feel the same way. I want to make the most of this time in prayer, journaling, and reading my Bible.

  • Reply
    Brenda Cox
    March 26, 2020 at 2:19 am

    Sorry, I’m a little late starting this! But it’s lovely; I’m so glad you’re doing this. Remember at the AGM I bought a copy of your book for my friend, who has helped me so much with my book? Well, the trip to her country didn’t happen; airports shut down. But I’m inviting her to join us here. The music is lovely; a great touch. And this theme is what I’m remembering now; God with us.

    My verse for this week is: “Abide in my love.” May we all abide deeply in His amazing, never-ending love for us.

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      March 27, 2020 at 3:06 pm

      Thank you so much for sharing this, Brenda! I love that verse. I will add it to my prayer journal.

  • Reply
    Jarm Del Boccio
    March 27, 2020 at 8:30 am

    Thanks so much for sharing these timely devotionals and powerful hymns, Rachel! May the Lord bless you as you continue to serve Him.

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      March 27, 2020 at 3:04 pm

      Thank you so much, Jarm! That encourages me more than you know!

  • Reply
    Wendy
    March 27, 2020 at 7:36 pm

    Thank you for doing this, I am a few days behind your schedule but what you are doing is so very meaningful and such a good reminder to trust in God and lean on him.
    Please pray for our current situation as I just got laid off and am not sure how we will make all our bills. I know I am not alone in this and it makes a scary situation. Hopefully praying together and for each other will help us all.

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      March 27, 2020 at 7:59 pm

      I will pray for you! That is so so hard. I truly hope many places will be able to rehire quickly. I will put your name in my prayer journal and pray for your family. I’m so glad these devotions are a comfort right now. I’m thankful we can all pray together!

      • Reply
        Wendy
        March 27, 2020 at 8:50 pm

        Thank you so much. I will also be praying for you. your blog and book has become a bit of a ministry and is important. Thank you for what you do

        • Reply
          Rachel Dodge
          March 28, 2020 at 12:51 pm

          Thank you!!

  • Reply
    Brenda Cox
    March 28, 2020 at 12:58 am

    Thanks, Rachel. This song made me cry, remembering when my mother died some years ago. For me, the old songs are still most powerful!
    Lovely prayer and devotional.

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      March 28, 2020 at 12:57 pm

      What a precious memory, Brenda. I’m so glad this blessed you today!

  • Reply
    Brenda Cox
    March 28, 2020 at 1:21 am

    Thanks again for a lovely devotional, Rachel. And for the great songs you have found! I just shared this one on my Facebook page. “Here in the power of Christ, I stand.” Standing together with you all in His power and love.

    • Reply
      Brenda Cox
      March 28, 2020 at 1:33 am

      And I meant to add, I love in chapter 17 that you see Fanny Price as exemplifying patience and fortitude. She is such a strong character, and that’s hard for people today, with very different ideas of what “strong” means, to see!

  • Reply
    Claudia Sandoni
    March 28, 2020 at 5:19 am

    Thank you so much, Rachel, for these days of prayer with Jane Austen which enable us to feel spiritually linked to one another in this time when we cannot gather to worship together.
    I’ m joining daily in the recital of the Holy Rosary led by the archbishop of my city in Italy; it’s a beautiful way to ask for our Lord’s protection and to lessen the sense of isolation.
    All the best for everyone,
    Claudia 🌟

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      March 28, 2020 at 12:54 pm

      Thank you so much for writing. That encourages me so much. The Holy Rosary each day sounds beautiful. Are you and your family doing okay?

  • Reply
    Brenda Cox
    March 28, 2020 at 11:32 pm

    Thanks, Rachel! I also enjoyed, in the book chapter, your picture of Catherine Morland and her night terrors. The nights are always the hardest time, aren’t they? So much easier to listen to lies in the darkness. But God gives us “a song in the night.” (Psalm 77:6)

  • Reply
    Claudia Sandoni
    March 29, 2020 at 1:24 am

    Yes, we are, thank you, studying and working while staying at home.
    And… I’ll go on keeping in touch with your posts: I love reading about faith and Jane Austen.
    Best wishes!

  • Reply
    Charlotte Flanagan
    March 29, 2020 at 11:08 am

    Thank you, Rachel. Your blog posts for these “7 days of Prayer with Jane Austen” have been inspiring and comforting.

  • Reply
    Kevin Lindsey
    March 29, 2020 at 1:15 pm

    I would like to thank you for these as well. The selections you chose spoke to the crisis we are in now. The fact that we were praying with Jane’s prayers from so long ago but are still relevant, shows us how little the human condition has changed, and how timeless Gods care for us is. Thanks again

  • Reply
    Brenda Cox
    March 30, 2020 at 3:09 am

    Thanks, Rachel, for sharing that lovely rendition of “How Great Thou Art.” It brought tears of joy to my eyes. I live in the desert, so I have pictures on the walls of my office, where I do my devotional times, of waterfalls and other lovely nature scenes. They help lift up my heart to the Lord, who made so many beautiful places.
    I also appreciated the idea in your chapter of different directions to pray in; thanks for sharing that picture of the letter and excerpt from the book! The book also adds a third dimension, praying for our loved ones’ future, calling, purpose and service. I will sign off now and go pray for my dear ones–most of whom are half the world away–in those three dimensions. Blessings to you!

  • Reply
    Brenda Cox
    March 31, 2020 at 3:09 am

    Amen. Thanks for these devotionals, Rachel. Praying with you for peace in all of our hearts. For comfort for those suffering from the virus or from the restrictions. And for God’s presence and sovereignty in the midst of it all.

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      April 5, 2020 at 8:36 am

      Thank you, Brenda! I’m echoing those prayers with you!

  • Reply
    Donna Rose Houchen
    April 5, 2020 at 6:52 pm

    Thank You Rachel for this Book Review of Anne Graham Lotz’ Jesus in Me. I am intrigued by the 7 Characteristics of the Holy Spirit and look forward to enjoying the book!

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      April 9, 2020 at 10:16 am

      I hope you enjoy it, Donna! The 7 Characteristics were so great for me. It has helped me know better how to pray!

  • Reply
    Nina Ruth
    April 11, 2020 at 8:14 am

    I love and needed this word today! Thank you!

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      April 11, 2020 at 8:08 pm

      I’m so thankful to hear that, dear friend. I pray you have a beautiful Resurrection Sunday tomorrow!

  • Reply
    Nina Ruth
    April 16, 2020 at 8:05 am

    Congratulations sweet friend! It is gorgeous and I’m so thrilled for you! I know that this will be as cherished as my beloved copy of Praying with Jane!

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      April 16, 2020 at 11:00 am

      Thank you, sister-friend! I thought it came out so beautifully. Can’t wait to share what God put on my heart as I wrote this book. It was an absolute joy to write.

  • Reply
    Shauna Pilgreen
    April 16, 2020 at 4:58 pm

    Oh I love it! I truly love it!

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      April 21, 2020 at 8:56 am

      Thank you, friend, for all your encouragement and support!

  • Reply
    Nina Ruth
    May 10, 2020 at 7:37 pm

    I love this! Oh how I pray for Revival in the UK! I have been praying specifically since June 19th 2013 and for me it is because they were once a Cyrus Nation who blessed Israel. Now they are one of the most anti-Semitic places in the world. But there is a Remnant and I have been praying for them and I know that you have prayed for Revival in the UK for even longer! May we see it in our time!

  • Reply
    Deb Barnum
    May 11, 2020 at 2:31 pm

    Beautiful! thank you for sharing Rachel – so uplifting (which we need right now!)

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      May 15, 2020 at 3:41 pm

      Thank you, Deb! we really do need this kind of thing right now!

  • Reply
    Karen Field
    May 12, 2020 at 10:45 am

    Thank you for doing this. A friend and I are doing this together from different parts of Virginia. I am a Janeite and a long-time growing believer. I have your book and am so glad for this opportunity to be a part of this.

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      May 15, 2020 at 3:43 pm

      That’s so wonderful hear! You and a friend can do this together. That makes my heart so incredibly happy! Thank you for sharing that with me.

  • Reply
    zoe
    June 22, 2020 at 5:40 pm

    Rachel, thank you for being such an encourager, a real blessing from the Lord.

  • Reply
    Nina Ruth
    June 24, 2020 at 7:30 am

    I love this, and I love your heart! Soooo many ways to be pulled into or under by spirits of distraction and division, but as you pointed out, we must keep the focus! “The Gospel is not chained!”

  • Reply
    Melanie
    June 24, 2020 at 8:54 pm

    Thank you Rachel for being brave and courageous and sharing the GOOD NEWS! I’m out a point in this year where I’m tuning out the bad news and looking for all the good! This is a whole lot of goodness! Blessings!

  • Reply
    Brenda Cox
    July 23, 2020 at 12:46 am

    Excellent question, Rachel. Thanks for answering it so clearly! I assume you’ve been personally to look at the manuscripts? California would be pretty far for me, unfortunately, but maybe someday!

  • Reply
    Linda Tewalt
    September 11, 2020 at 4:53 pm

    I forwarded this to five friends. Would love to have the book.

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      September 11, 2020 at 6:41 pm

      Wonderful!! I’ll enter that in!

  • Reply
    Linda Tewalt
    September 11, 2020 at 4:54 pm

    I forwarded this to five friends.

  • Reply
    Lila Diller
    September 11, 2020 at 5:57 pm

    I love the Shirley Temple version of the Little Princess best! My son just had to read Heidi for his English, and he enjoyed it so much that he wanted me to read it. It reminded me about Shirley Temple’s version of this, and I have been wanting to watch Shirley Temple’s The Little Princess again! I did read it as a child, but I don’t remember much about the book itself.

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      September 11, 2020 at 6:43 pm

      I’ll need to watch it again as well!

  • Reply
    Brenda Cox
    September 12, 2020 at 6:26 am

    Yes, I also remember the Shirley Temple version of this lovely story. But I’ll need to look up the one you mentioned, and try to watch it with my grandchildren! This would be a great book to read aloud to them, thanks for the reminder. I’ll share this on my facebook page, which is like sharing it with a bunch of friends, right? Thanks for sharing with us, Rachel!

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      September 12, 2020 at 8:07 am

      Thank you, Brenda!

  • Reply
    Lila Diller
    October 13, 2020 at 2:39 pm

    I love card games, so I would probably want to learn whist. If no one else would play with me, I would read. I probably would spend more time practicing my to music.

  • Reply
    Brenda Cox
    December 19, 2020 at 8:39 am

    Lovely, Rachel. A great example of caring and comfort.

  • Reply
    Patti Villavicencio
    March 5, 2021 at 1:10 pm

    I love the cover of the Anne Devi!

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      March 7, 2021 at 8:50 am

      Thank you, Patti!

  • Reply
    Lila Diller
    March 5, 2021 at 8:36 pm

    I love this picture with the flowers and teapot! I have always related to Anne Shirley the most because we’re both freckly redheads who love words and beauty. I really think that reading this book as a pre-teen and then several times through my teen years really helped make me who I am today.

  • Reply
    Rachel Dodge
    March 7, 2021 at 8:50 am

    Thank you, Lila!

  • Reply
    Elisama Lucena
    March 16, 2021 at 2:45 pm

    That`s so cool!
    Congrats to your dad on his book!

    It`s never too late to share a good work =)

  • Reply
    Catherine Gwinner
    August 18, 2021 at 5:50 am

    Rachel! I love this article about Regency dressing and beauty! It’s so fascinating to me and I love that you gave us a paragraph of great information along with a link to dive deeper! I like you love dressing for the JASNA AGMs and other JASNA events! I’ve taken my turn and having specific dresses made and piece-mealing my costumes from thrift store finds. I have to agree with the woman you quoted at the end of your article – it’s better to take our time and get/make items for our Regency costumes! There are SO many stores out there now where we can get pieces! Oh the fun to be had!

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      September 14, 2021 at 10:55 am

      Thank you!! I really enjoyed writing about this. It’s such a fun topic. I would love to see some of your costumes!!

  • Reply
    Beverly Mayo
    August 20, 2021 at 9:02 am

    Oh, that is sooo good!! All our fears should melt away when we really SEE this beautiful picture, our Lion of Judah by our side. Thank you for sharing the devotional.

    Janeite Bev

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      August 20, 2021 at 2:46 pm

      Yes and amen! Thank you for your comment and your encouragement!

  • Reply
    Joyce Burges
    September 1, 2021 at 1:09 pm

    Thank you for your words of encouragement –

  • Reply
    Aleena Grosjean
    September 13, 2021 at 8:13 am

    NO QUESTION – I would want to have tea/coffee with L.M. Montgomery!!! I am currently reading her collection of short stories and I have so many questions. So many of the shorts could have been great novels and I want to know more about the characters. I think I could sit with her for hours and never get enough.

  • Reply
    tricia
    September 13, 2021 at 8:18 am

    i would have tea with Lucy Maud Montgomery cause i can understand wem she talks

    • Reply
      Odi Del Castillo
      September 15, 2021 at 5:36 am

      Ashame can’t leave my comments here
      I would love to participate
      I would like Praying with Jane!!!

  • Reply
    Heidi
    September 13, 2021 at 8:22 am

    That’s hard. Can I say both?! Hahahaha. Probably Jane Austen to see what being an author is all about!

  • Reply
    Jennifer
    September 13, 2021 at 8:23 am

    Lucy Maud Montgomery – She obviously had a wonderful imagination and I imagine she would’ve been so much fun to casually talk with!

  • Reply
    GLORIA J KISER
    September 13, 2021 at 8:24 am

    Lucy Maud Montgomery

  • Reply
    Emily Baer
    September 13, 2021 at 8:28 am

    Hard choice, but I’d have to pick Jane Austen because her stories continue to impact and influence writers to this day and you see so many of her plot lines repurposed into modern tales!

  • Reply
    Elizabeth Litton
    September 13, 2021 at 8:30 am

    I think I would choose tea with Lucy Maud Montgomery, because I love the Anne of Green Gables series and the Emily of New Moon series. (Although I’d hope Ms. Montgomery wouldn’t mind too much if I drank hot chocolate instead of tea!) 😀

  • Reply
    Sherry Brown
    September 13, 2021 at 8:33 am

    Thank you so much for your wonderful giveaway!!! All the books look wonderful!

  • Reply
    Allyson Gibbs
    September 13, 2021 at 8:34 am

    Hello there!
    Tea with eother of those authors would be wonderful. They both had such different views of the world in different parts of the world.
    I love Anne of Green Gables. I watched it all the time as a tween/teen. And still do!
    Pride and Prejudice is my all time favorite of Jane Austens novels. So witty and subtle interest between Darcy and Elizabeth.
    I do love Englands culture during the time of Jane Austen.
    I would have to say Jane Austen, since she wrote when women had so little rights and yet she still made a name for herself, albeit unknowingly to her readers at that time. She created so many different ways that lives were lived then, she obviously had a keen eye for paying attention to what was going on around her and an understanding of the different classes and occupations that she could create worlds that people of today would love to live! Haha

  • Reply
    Kayla Pribble
    September 13, 2021 at 8:38 am

    Lucy Maud Montgomery. I would just love to sit and listen to her “spin” the tales of Anne of Green Gables, those that she has written about and those that never made it in to print.

  • Reply
    Codi Sutton
    September 13, 2021 at 8:40 am

    Tough choice but Lucy Maud Montgomery!!
    I’m actually about to start reading your Little Women devotional on NetGalley too so I’m excited!!

  • Reply
    Courtney Birnbaum
    September 13, 2021 at 8:48 am

    I would have tea with LM Montgomery because it seems like mealtimes are a big part of her writing and I’d love to be able to forever imagine how she’d describe the event!

  • Reply
    Patricia Brooks
    September 13, 2021 at 8:49 am

    This is a really nice giveaway! Is this giveaway still going because up above it says it ends on August 30?

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      September 14, 2021 at 10:58 am

      Yes, it is! Not sure what happened to the date (argh!), but it is open through Monday (9/20)!

  • Reply
    Nancy Woolf
    September 13, 2021 at 8:49 am

    Lucy Maud Montgomery
    I would really just like to express to her how much pleasure she gave our family when my daughters were growing up.

  • Reply
    Melissa Renee Ingram
    September 13, 2021 at 8:54 am

    I would definitely choose Lucy because I love Anne of Green Gables. I related a lot to Anne when I was growing up – didn’t quite fit in, did my own thing, loved to read, imagine things, I would still like to be a teacher one day. She wrote such an amazing character who really stood out during the time period.

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      September 21, 2021 at 2:44 pm

      Melissa, you won the giveaway!! I will email you now!

  • Reply
    sharon
    September 13, 2021 at 8:58 am

    That is a really tough choice. I love both authors! Jane would have a lovely accent and serve a proper British tea, which I would adore. I would enjoy her sense of humor and witty perspective of life.

    I think I would choose Lucy, though, because it would feel like I was actually having tea with Anne Shirley and getting to be her friend! I imagine it would be an unforgettable adventure. 🙂

  • Reply
    Sharon Huether
    September 13, 2021 at 9:00 am

    Your book looks very interesting. the cover has a very inviting feel. I would love to read your new book

  • Reply
    Hannah
    September 13, 2021 at 9:05 am

    I would choose Lucy Maud Montgomery because Anne was my favorite book growing up (and now) and I would have so many questions to ask her!!

  • Reply
    Heather Barnes
    September 13, 2021 at 9:07 am

    I would choose L.M. Montgomery! I would pick her brain about writing. Her descriptions are just so wonderful.

  • Reply
    Jane Squires
    September 13, 2021 at 9:10 am

    Jane Austen. I know her name. Have no idea who other is.

  • Reply
    Phyllis Whitaker
    September 13, 2021 at 9:15 am

    I would choose Lucy Maud Montgomery. Her life wasn’t an easy one, and I think losing her mom at such a young age had an influence on her, especially with her father giving her to her grandparents to raise, I can imagine how fascinating the stories of her life would be. She certainly wouldn’t be a boring companion!

  • Reply
    Heidi Morrell
    September 13, 2021 at 9:16 am

    I would love to sit down with Lucy Maud Montgomery AND Jane Austen! It would be fascinating to just sit back and watch how these two magnificent authors would relate. I imagine they’d have lots of questions for each other as well! Just thinking “outside the box”, if you will! 🙂

  • Reply
    Beverly Laude
    September 13, 2021 at 9:19 am

    I think I would choose Lucy Maud Montgomery because I read Anne of Green Gables when I was young and it had a big impact on me.

  • Reply
    Debbie Miller
    September 13, 2021 at 9:25 am

    I see the contest ended 8-30-21 and today I received the email which is 9-13-21…
    Sending out the emails late?
    I would enjoy a chit chat with Jane Austen asking about her family life,

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      September 14, 2021 at 10:59 am

      Not sure what happened, but the giveaway is open until Monday, 9/20 – you can still enter! 🙂

  • Reply
    Chrissie Stewart
    September 13, 2021 at 9:30 am

    For me, it would be Jane. I’d like to talk with her about how women of her time perceived their lives and roles and how their faith intersected with those perceptions.

  • Reply
    Lizz Small
    September 13, 2021 at 9:36 am

    Lucy Maud Montgomery without a doubt. I’ve loved Anne of Green Gables since my teacher read it to us in 4th grade. I’ve reread it many times and also have it on audiobook so I can listen to it when life is crazy and I don’t have time to read it. It had such an impact on my childhood and always brings good memories.

  • Reply
    Lelia (Lucy) Reynolds
    September 13, 2021 at 9:52 am

    Lucy Maude Montgomery as I loved her Anne of Green Gables books. They were my mom’s favorite also.

  • Reply
    Andrea Conner
    September 13, 2021 at 9:57 am

    I’d have tea with Jane Austen. I would love to find out what made her write Persuasion!

  • Reply
    Janet Wilkins
    September 13, 2021 at 9:58 am

    Oh, why must you make us choose?! 😉 I suppose, if I must only choose one- it would be Jane. Simply because she lived longer ago, and her lifestyle & experiences would have varied more from ours than LMM’s. I have SO many questions!

  • Reply
    Edwina Kiernan
    September 13, 2021 at 10:00 am

    I would choose Jane Austen, as I have read more of her books and would be delighted to discuss them with her over a steaming cup of tea (or fifty!)

  • Reply
    Rachel T Taylor
    September 13, 2021 at 10:02 am

    I would have dinner with Jane Austen. To talk with her about how she integrated her faith into her novels.

  • Reply
    Amy Gilley
    September 13, 2021 at 10:08 am

    Lucy as I know nothing at all about her. (sorry) I struggled with Jane Austin, not ever really “getting” her dialogue between characters.

  • Reply
    Faith Creech
    September 13, 2021 at 10:18 am

    That’s a hard question as I’d like to have tea with both of them! I’d probably choose Lucy Maud Montgomery as Ann of Green Gables has been my favorite series of books for so many, many years. I would ask her about her childhood and what inspired her to write this series.

  • Reply
    Linda Farabaugh
    September 13, 2021 at 10:21 am

    I would like tea with Lucy Maud Montgomery because she lived in the era that I would most liked to have lived in.

  • Reply
    Becky D.
    September 13, 2021 at 10:24 am

    Lucy M. Montgomery…I loved the “Anne” series. It’s one of the few books I actually started & finished as a kid. My real love of reading didn’t happen until my 20s. Thank you so much for sharing!!!

  • Reply
    Megan S
    September 13, 2021 at 10:26 am

    I would love to have tea with Lucy Maud Montgomery! I grew up reading the Anne books and sharing this experience with my mother. Now as a mom of 2 girls, I’m starting to introduce them to Anne and the sweet world of Avonlea.

  • Reply
    Kathryn
    September 13, 2021 at 10:39 am

    Hi – when does this competition close, please – as it states Mon 8/30?? Thanks 🙂

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      September 13, 2021 at 3:34 pm

      It ends 9/20 – thank you!

  • Reply
    Lori Mulligan Davis
    September 13, 2021 at 10:58 am

    I am so sorry, Lucy! Much as I regard your writing (and I just finished purchasing all your Anne books on audiobooks last week), I must choose tea with Jane. I have burning questions to ask about my most beloved of her novels, Mansfield Park. Couldn’t ALL THREE OF US get together at a later date?

  • Reply
    Stephanie H.
    September 13, 2021 at 11:01 am

    I think I would enjoy having some tea with Lucy Maud Montgomery because she was a very creative and wonderful woman who had some spunk in her. Plus, I think that she would be very intriguing to talk to.

  • Reply
    Michelle Habrych
    September 13, 2021 at 11:16 am

    I would choose Jane because I would love to talk to her about writing a novel. She is very inspiring to me.

  • Reply
    Mibi
    September 13, 2021 at 11:18 am

    I choose to have a conversation with Lucy Maud Montgomery (to be honest, I have not completed a single Jane Austen book yet, so I guess my answer should be obvious!). I have to have a conversation with L.M. Montgomery because I relate to her heroines so well. When I first read the Emily series I was in shock that she could describe “the Flash” that I always experienced! I always seem to experience the flash when I’m riding the country roads and looking at quaint little houses and gardens, but at other times too, sometimes it comes when I am least expecting it. I just need to talk to her about “the Flash”.
    I also need to talk with L.M. Montgomery on about her views on women’s education. Anne Shirley always aspired to be a homemaker, but she still got her B.A. In one of the books, Gilbert’s old “girlfriend” Christine asks Anne why she even got a B.A. in the first place, if she was just going to waste it being a mother to six children. I wonder why L.M. Montgomery felt inclined to put this in the book. I know that I will be ready to give up my Bachelor’s degree if a Gilbert and lovely children came into my life. I would be perfectly content keeping up my “House of Dreams”, but so many women cannot understand that, it is only one or the other. I would like to get L.M. Montgomery’s views about that. Why do we seek education in the first place? For physical or intellectual profit?

  • Reply
    Judy Sickler
    September 13, 2021 at 11:47 am

    It would be with Lucy Maud Montgomery because I am such a big fan of her writing. I love family, community, and coming-of-age, stories and also would love to talk with her about the challenges she faced in her own life. I have read some of her journals and 3 biographies too.

  • Reply
    Sharon Provenzano
    September 13, 2021 at 11:53 am

    I would choose Lucy Maud Montgomery because I have been to the home described in the book on Prince Edward Island, walked through the edge of the Haunted Woods, etc. and feel a kindred spirit with her.

  • Reply
    Natalya Lakhno
    September 13, 2021 at 12:16 pm

    I would have tea with Jane Austen since we’ve met before 😉

  • Reply
    Sheila Samuelson
    September 13, 2021 at 12:20 pm

    Jane Austen because her life seems so interesting and i’d of loved to of visited her and had a conversation with her about that time in her life.

  • Reply
    Elisama Rodrigues Lucena
    September 13, 2021 at 12:26 pm

    I would love to have a tea with Jane!
    Her stories are so amazing and I’d like to know what truly inspired her.
    I am sure we would had a great time talking, and maybe we have a PJ party! XD

  • Reply
    Donna Irvin
    September 13, 2021 at 1:01 pm

    I would love to have tea with Lucy Maud Montgomery! I love the Anne of Green Gables stories and even the movies. It would be lovely to discuss the books, and to visit Prince Edward Island also.

  • Reply
    Mandy Farmer
    September 13, 2021 at 1:19 pm

    Is this giveaway still open? The deadline says 8/30. But the post was written 9-13. I would like to sit and have tea with Jane Austin mainly because I am more familiar with her work.

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      September 13, 2021 at 3:33 pm

      Yes, it ends 9/20 – don’t know how that happened! Thank you!

  • Reply
    Cathleen Haviland
    September 13, 2021 at 1:20 pm

    I would love to have tea with Jane Austen. My absolute favorite love story and I would love to hear about her muse when writing this story.

  • Reply
    Lori Morton
    September 13, 2021 at 1:55 pm

    Oh my gosh…I would choose to have tea with Lucy Maud Montgomery!!!! Anne of Green Gables is my MOST FAVORITE serries of books!!! 😀 What a delight it would be to win your Give-a-way too!! Thank you for the chance 🙂

  • Reply
    Fritzie
    September 13, 2021 at 2:20 pm

    I’d pick having Tea with Lucy Maud Montgomery

  • Reply
    Connie Scruggs
    September 13, 2021 at 2:32 pm

    Definitely Jane Austen because I think we have the same snarky sense of humor.

    • Reply
      Laurie Gommermann
      September 14, 2021 at 10:21 am

      I would like to meet and have tea or coffee with Lucy Maud Montgomery. She was smart, loyal, a prolific writer and an activist. I have enjoyed her stories, both the Anne Of Green Gables series and the Emily of New Moon series. I introduced my daughter and now my 4 granddaughters to her work. She led a fascinating life and fought against the people who took advantage as stage of her. I would like to ask her questions about her life, her heroes, her beliefs, her faith and her stories. She was a woman born before her time and suffered because of it. I wish she would be alive and writing today.

  • Reply
    Marion
    September 13, 2021 at 2:34 pm

    It would be Lucy Maude Montgomery. i would ask her how did she pick the other characters in Ann’s Life. Also what made her write the Pat books which are my favorite. Are they based on someone in her life?
    Marion

  • Reply
    Kim Bakos
    September 13, 2021 at 2:50 pm

    Jane Austen, since I have read her books.

  • Reply
    Marilyn
    September 13, 2021 at 3:02 pm

    I would ask Lucy Maud Montgomery: Did you base Diana on anyone you knew. Diana seems to be totally different in character than Anne. That is what makes them such good friends. Thank You for this lovely giveaway. God Bless.
    Marilyn

  • Reply
    JENNIFER MORRIS
    September 13, 2021 at 3:46 pm

    I would choose to have tea with Jane Austen. I admire her stand she took refusing her marriage proposal despite the common expectation of women of her time.

  • Reply
    Kim
    September 13, 2021 at 4:51 pm

    This is a difficult choice to be sure as both Lucy and Jane have wit, see the humor in life and created characters beloved by so many readers. But if I had to choose, I would ask Lucy Maud Montgomery. Her landscapes and descriptions of farm life and nature remind me of my great grandmother who I used to visit on her farm when I was little. The Anne devotional is lovely–I am enjoying it so much. Thank you!

  • Reply
    Crystal
    September 13, 2021 at 4:51 pm

    Haven’t read books of either so I really would like Through the Prayers of Jane Austen and would love to have tea with her too. Why? She sounds, looks and acts like a blessed Christian Mother/Sister.
    I would like to her if she wrote the devotional and based/related to her life or someone else? Also, I’d ask her if the devotional is for certain age group or everyone?
    I think a book like this could make my walk with God stronger and would love to win it.
    Please enter me
    Hope I Win

  • Reply
    Denise O
    September 13, 2021 at 5:15 pm

    Jane Austen. I’ve read everything of hers and just know more about her. Though I do like Anne!

  • Reply
    Elizabeth Litton
    September 13, 2021 at 5:27 pm

    I would have tea with Lucy Maud Montgomery because I love the Anne of Green Gables series and the Emily of New Moon series. (Although I hope she wouldn’t be offended if I drank hot chocolate instead of tea!) 😄

  • Reply
    Joan
    September 13, 2021 at 5:28 pm

    I would ask Lucy Maude Montgomery if she ever visited the United States. Thank You for the giveaway. God Bless.
    Joan

  • Reply
    Judy Brownfield
    September 13, 2021 at 5:38 pm

    L.M. Montgomery! I would like to see her reaction to knowing how her work has endured through the years.

  • Reply
    Amy Bradsher
    September 13, 2021 at 6:27 pm

    Definitely LM Montgomery because I love the way that she plays with words! Anne is so fun – sweet but spirited.

  • Reply
    Tahsin Tabassum
    September 13, 2021 at 6:35 pm

    I would definitely choose Jane Austen. She was so savage even in those days when women didn’t have much freedom or rights. I would talk about all the quirky details of how to be a badass woman and how did she do it. Also I would ask her if she ever fallen in love.

  • Reply
    Krissy Miller
    September 13, 2021 at 6:48 pm

    I would have tea with Lucy Maud Montgomery! Anne Is a real person in our family . We feel like we know her personally.Wouldn’t it be so much fun to chat with Lucie, feeling like you were chatting with Anne?

  • Reply
    Minette Paltz
    September 13, 2021 at 7:05 pm

    Though I enjoy both authors, I love L.M. Montgomery! I have read both the Anne series & the Emily series several times. I absolutely LOVE LOVE LOVE The Blue Castle, it is one of my all time favorite books & my favorite of L.M. Montgomery. My best friend & SIL also loves Anne, so before she got married I threw her an Anne based garden tea party for a bridal shower. She also named their first daughter Emily Anne :0)

  • Reply
    Debra J Pruss
    September 13, 2021 at 7:46 pm

    I would have tea with Jane Austin. Thank you for the opportunity. God bless you.

  • Reply
    Sheri Roper
    September 13, 2021 at 8:08 pm

    I would choose to have a lovely afternoon tea with Lucy Maud Montgomery, complete with cherry cordials. And I would be engaged in conversation with her instantly, sharing our stories like schoolgirls.

  • Reply
    bn100
    September 13, 2021 at 8:29 pm

    Jane Austen to ask about her books

  • Reply
    Rochelle
    September 13, 2021 at 9:09 pm

    Jane Austen! I have read so many of her novels and so many times. She never knew how much influence she would have over the course of time. I would love to hear her response to that and to some of the adaptations that have been done with her novels.

  • Reply
    StuffSmart
    September 13, 2021 at 11:03 pm

    I would choose to have tea with Jane Austin and talk to her about the inspiration for her books.

  • Reply
    Sharma Darby
    September 14, 2021 at 12:16 am

    I would have dinner with Lucy M. Montgomery, . I love the Anne books .

  • Reply
    Debra
    September 14, 2021 at 2:56 am

    I would choose Jane. I love that time period and I have so many questions. During tea would be great to ask them.

  • Reply
    Sarah Nixon
    September 14, 2021 at 4:16 am

    Definently Lucy Montgomery! I’ve loved her books since I was a girl.

  • Reply
    Lual Krautter
    September 14, 2021 at 5:15 am

    I would choose L. M. Montgomery, because I enjoyed that story years ago, and would love to win a print copy. . . Thanks for the opportunity to enter an exciting giveaway! God bless! Lual

  • Reply
    Susan Campbell
    September 14, 2021 at 5:53 am

    Lucy Maude Montgomery and I would ask her how she decided to be an author. I would also like to ask her what she thinks about the world today.

  • Reply
    Kathy Johnson
    September 14, 2021 at 6:51 am

    I would choose Lucy Maude Montgomery because her books touch my heart. The devotional would be amazing to read, I’m sure!

  • Reply
    Trudy
    September 14, 2021 at 7:27 am

    I would have to choose Lucy Maud Montgomery, as I’ve read all of the Anne of Green Gables books, and I’ve never read a Jane Austen book. I also want to visit Prince Edward Island because of the books!

  • Reply
    Esther Searcy
    September 14, 2021 at 7:43 am

    Jane Austin to know more about her background to the stories and to see God’s working through them

  • Reply
    April Wanstrom
    September 14, 2021 at 9:23 am

    I think I would choose Lucy Maud Montgomery because she seemed to see a silver lining in things.

  • Reply
    Kelly R
    September 14, 2021 at 10:01 am

    I think I’d choose Lucy, but wow, it is a really hard choice! Reason is I just love the time period and would love to just sit and have tea and conversation with her. I feel it would be very easygoing and comfortable, as if she was already a friend.

  • Reply
    Kailey Bechtel
    September 14, 2021 at 10:08 am

    I’m not sure who I would pick! I would love to have tea with both of them. I’m sure we would have some interesting conversations.

  • Reply
    Kathryn Bartlett
    September 14, 2021 at 1:21 pm

    I think I’d go for Lucy Maud Montgomery – simply because the Anne of Green Gables story-set is one of – if not my actual – all-time favourites, & I think anyone who wrote those books would indeed be a ‘kindred spirit’, so we would have the most fun having a jolly tea together!!

  • Reply
    Cathy Picha
    September 14, 2021 at 1:31 pm

    Your giveaway question is a great one and I really had to think. I decided I would enjoy tea with Lucy Maud Montgomery the most because she is the one that was so much a part of my childhood and then my children’s.

  • Reply
    Monique Summers
    September 14, 2021 at 2:27 pm

    I would LOVE to have tea with Lucy Maud Montgomery and discuss Anne of Green Gables, which is near and dear to my heart!

  • Reply
    Lila Diller
    September 14, 2021 at 2:43 pm

    I would have tea with Jane Austen because she is my favorite author.

  • Reply
    Donna
    September 14, 2021 at 8:06 pm

    LM Montgomery. She always puts a smile on my face. Although, I would be happy to have tea with either one. Lead characters of both authors freely speak their minds on most occasions.

  • Reply
    Rizz Ann Oribiana
    September 15, 2021 at 12:37 am

    I would rather have tea with Montgomery to tell her how much I appreciate her and her books, which have helped me get by each day, especially during these trying times. I love her stories, characters, and descriptions, which are simpler and lighter compared to Austen’s (in my opinion anyway). ^_^

  • Reply
    Beth Hawley
    September 15, 2021 at 5:08 am

    I would love to have tea with Jane Austen. Maybe it is because your Jane Austen devotional is the first one I read but I am intrigued to hear her thoughts on our state of things here in our modern day world.

  • Reply
    Odi Del Castillo
    September 15, 2021 at 5:18 am

    Hi and be blessed!!
    I’m so happy in spite of all health issues I caught this week…
    I’d love to have Tea with Jane since I already have Anne of Green Gables Devotional. BTW finished it yesterday along with the furst book of the series.
    I really enjoyed it. A kindled spirit sent to me as a present some few months ago.
    So hope to get this giveaway and would looove to win TeA wiyh Jane Austen. She’s too one of my favourite authors

  • Reply
    Lanya Yu
    September 15, 2021 at 10:15 am

    Ah lots of people are saying Montgomery but I’d say Austen just because I am slightly more accustomed to her works!

  • Reply
    Sandra Canales
    September 15, 2021 at 12:17 pm

    Honestly, I would love to have tea with both Jane and Lucy. This is a tough one! Each have a spot on my shelf with their wonderful books. But I will go with Jane. She endured many hardships, tried endlessly to have her work published, although it was done anonymously for her time, and putting herself last in her life, in my opinion, for the greater good of her family. I would love to ask her if she ever would have guessed how important her books would be for so many of us who get lost within her words.📚🙂 And the next day, I will have tea with Lucy.

  • Reply
    Melissa M.
    September 15, 2021 at 12:19 pm

    Tough choice, but I think I’d go with Jane Austen. I’d like to know more about her life, faith, etc., and I enjoy her works, and might be related to her! I love L. M. Montgomery’s stories, too, especially Anne.

  • Reply
    Linda Herold
    September 15, 2021 at 8:05 pm

    Jane Austen because she is such a well known name!

  • Reply
    Rachel Radford
    September 16, 2021 at 3:25 pm

    It is hard to choose between these two wonderful authors, but I think I am inclined toward Jane Austen. I have wondered if Persuasion was perhaps based on a secret romance?!? Plus…I would love a good afternoon tea in England, perhaps at the Pump Room or Sally Lunn’s in Bath!

  • Reply
    SARAH TAYLOR
    September 16, 2021 at 6:26 pm

    Lucy M. Montgomery! Thank you for the chance!

  • Reply
    Heather Byrd
    September 16, 2021 at 8:11 pm

    LM Montgomery because I don’t know as much about her life. I’d love to know how much of the character of Anne is based on her.

  • Reply
    Heather Barnes
    September 22, 2021 at 8:57 am

    This is so interesting! Thank you for putting time and research into it to answer our nagging questions. 🙂

  • Reply
    Linda Herold
    September 22, 2021 at 10:55 am

    Amazing! Thanks for sharing!

  • Reply
    Heather Barnes
    October 15, 2021 at 8:25 am

    I have a comfortable chair in the corner of my bedroom where I sit and have my devotions. 🙂

  • Reply
    Elsie @ Tea and Ink Society
    October 19, 2021 at 6:54 pm

    Hi Rachel, I wanted to thank you for mentioning my Anne book covers post! Also, I LOVE that puffed sleeves picture!! That is perfect.

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      October 22, 2021 at 10:27 am

      I love your post and site!! Isn’t the puffed sleeves picture fun? My husband helped me make that.

  • Reply
    Heather Barnes
    October 20, 2021 at 9:36 am

    We had teas for about three years in a row, several years ago, it was so fun! It was a great way to get our girlfriends all together.

    Also, “Ben Hur”?! I’m intrigued.

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      October 22, 2021 at 10:29 am

      I was giggling to myself about Ben Hur. I haven’t actually read it, but I keep thinking I should because of Anne: “Miss Stacy caught me reading Ben Hur in school yesterday afternoon when I should have been studying my Canadian history.” It must be exciting. I’ve only seen the movie. lol

  • Reply
    Barb F
    October 24, 2021 at 9:53 pm

    I really enjoy your website, & I love Anne of Green Gables it is one of my favorite series.

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      October 26, 2021 at 1:33 pm

      Thank you so much for reading! I love the series, too!

  • Reply
    Lori Mulligan Davis
    November 8, 2021 at 3:07 pm

    This interesting essay makes me grieve again for poor Eliza in “Sense and Sensibility.” As her guardian was Mr. Brandon (Colonel Brandon’s father), Eliza had no one to protect her financial interests with an honorable, equitable marriage settlement when Mr. Brandon forced her to marry his elder son, fully knowing she was in love with his younger son.
    “She was married—married against her inclination to my brother. Her fortune was large, and our family estate much encumbered. And this, I fear, is all that can be said for the conduct of one, who was at once her uncle and guardian.” With Eliza having no true guardian to manage the marriage settlement, no wonder “Her legal allowance was not adequate to her fortune, nor sufficient for her comfortable maintenance. . . .”

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      November 15, 2021 at 6:56 pm

      Oh, yes! Poor Eliza is right. That story always haunts me a bit. Thank you for sharing this thoughtful insight into the sad realities of that time. I’m sure it happened more than we’d like to think.

  • Reply
    Aleena Grosjean
    November 22, 2021 at 3:54 pm

    YES!!! I have been trying to do this the past couple of years and teach this to my boys. We try to have all the shopping done AND the presents wrapped by the end of November so that all of December is just time to focus on Christ. I’ve found fun devotionals to do with my guys and have carved out a space for me to get quiet time this season, too. I even bought a Kcup advent calendar for myself to enjoy each morning as I sit and study. In the hustle and bustle of this season, I love that I’m not the only one carving out time with The King. God bless you and have an amazing holiday season. Oh, I’m still hoping someone gets me the Little Women Devo for Christmas. If not, it will be my new years gift to myself. 🙂

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      November 27, 2021 at 8:06 pm

      Thank you so much for your comment. This is so encouraging to my heart! I wish you a very wonderful Advent season and Christmas with your sweet family!

  • Reply
    Juliette Deroulede
    March 2, 2022 at 2:40 pm

    Hello! Seeing that you have done an Anne of Green Gables blog tour in the past… Just wondered if you plan to do anything like this again? Or if you ever publicize or review random blogs… I’m working on starting a blog based on books, writing, history… and with a lot of AOGG in it as well. Problem is, I haven’t the slightest clue how to find readers… Any tips?

    Thanks =)

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      August 29, 2022 at 7:25 am

      I find that it helps to have things on my blog regularly (haven’t been able to that as much the past few months) and to link to my site from my socials. It’s definitely harder to get readers now. Giveaways help a lot!

  • Reply
    Anne Krause
    June 7, 2022 at 7:31 am

    Thank You, Rachel! I read every Anne book when I was in my pre and early teens! Living on a farm in a caring family surrounded by a large loving church required little imagination of the time/setting of Green Gables! My older by 15 months sister was my Diana! I am nearing my
    87th birthday and have just finished reading Lucy Maud Montgomery’s 580+/- page story of her life and have enjoyed thoroughly every page! Your beautiful Anne of Green Gables Devotional book has been a delightful companion read. Thank you so much for bringing back so many happy thoughts!

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      August 29, 2022 at 7:26 am

      Dear Anne, It’s so lovely to hear from you! I loved hearing about your Anne memories and I’m so thankful to hear that the devotional has been a source of joy. I feel the same way about Anne!!! xx

  • Reply
    Jeanne Miller
    July 29, 2022 at 5:56 am

    Congratulations on this nomination. This book was such a joy to read since I always loved this series.

    Chapter 38 in the Personal Application section you reminded me that “God is calling you to go deeper in your relationship with Him, but there may be something you need to surrender and lay at His feet.”

    So that’s what I did. I confessed anger, jealousy and envy that I have been harboring in my heart toward my two brothers and two grown children for the past three years. My husband, George and I are sole caregivers of my 87 year old mom. Everyone else has their own lives and responsibilities. They visit once or twice a year and send money. She doesn’t need money, she needs contact with them. We don’t need their money, we need respite care,. She’s now well enough to stay alone for a few days. We have friends who check in on her if we’re away. She doesn’t travel well anymore, so it’s up to them to come to her. They don’t even call her regularly. I didn’t realize how angry, jealous and envious I felt until your encouragement. So thank you. My burden has been removed and I feel renewed and thankful for the role God has placed me in.

    I have read your books in the opposite order you wrote them. I first read your Little Women devotional, then Anne, and now I have just started “Praying with Jane.” Thank you for sharing your heart through you books.

    I love your gift of writing and the insights God has blessed you with.
    God bless you in your writing and teaching.

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      August 29, 2022 at 7:29 am

      Dear Jeanne, This is so beautiful and so encouraging to me. Your message brought tears to my eyes. It’s incredible what God can do when we surrender all to Him. And I can relate completely to how you’ve felt, especially to not even realize how much was beneath the surface. I’m in a similar place (about a different situation) and it’s taking time for God to unearth all of the deeper feelings and bring them to light. Oh, what a relief once we give it all to Him! I’m SO excited to hear that you’ve enjoyed each of my devotional books. Wow! Thank you for writing. You have no idea how much it means to a writer to hear from a reader. God bless you!! xx

  • Reply
    Nina Ruth
    August 29, 2022 at 7:58 am

    Oh yes, how I need him to breathe on me! To give me his courage so that I am a little lioness! My own inability and helplessness along with some extreme health scare are overwhelming me right now, and I think I need this or that, but what I really need is for Jesus, the Lion of the Tribe of Judah, to simply breathe on me and call me “Child.”
    🙏🏻💖😭🦁🌬👑

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      August 31, 2022 at 4:52 am

      I’m praying for you, my dear sister, that the Lion of Judah would roar in power and create a hedge about you in this time, strengthening you and bringing resolution and provision. xx

  • Reply
    Odi Del Castillo
    August 29, 2022 at 10:45 am

    I wanna give thank You here for this Word and encouragement through it.
    I need His B r e a t h on me, always
    Thanks so much for your time and sharing this!

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      August 31, 2022 at 4:50 am

      I’m so thankful that this was refreshing for you!! God bless you!

  • Reply
    Sophie Leigh Fox
    October 20, 2022 at 5:14 am

    Thank you so much! I’m glad you shared about this site. I just ordered my Christmas box with your code. 🙂

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      October 20, 2022 at 8:35 am

      Oh, how exciting! I hope you love it!

  • Reply
    Sandra Grahl
    November 5, 2022 at 3:33 pm

    What an encouraging and wonderful testimony-thanks for sharing!

  • Reply
    Stacy
    December 28, 2022 at 8:05 pm

    Is this appropriate for a 16 year old?

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      February 9, 2023 at 7:30 pm

      You might want to read it first for yourself, but I think so. It does involve war and very difficult situations, since it’s a true story of her time in a prison camp.

  • Reply
    Ellaina Ruse
    February 9, 2023 at 6:29 pm

    Blackmoore by Julianne Donaldson. It was so good!!!! Love it!

    ~Already following on Instagram!

  • Reply
    Beverly Laude
    February 9, 2023 at 6:30 pm

    The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek

  • Reply
    Natalya Lakhno
    February 9, 2023 at 6:34 pm

    Hope Beyond the Waves by Heidi Chiavaroli is a wonderful story!

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      February 25, 2023 at 8:50 am

      Hi Natalya, Can you please contact me? I’ve been trying to reach you. Thank you!

  • Reply
    Ellaina Ruse
    February 9, 2023 at 6:35 pm

    Shared!

  • Reply
    Julie T
    February 9, 2023 at 6:38 pm

    I started reading Jan Karon’s Mitford series last year and A New Song has been my favorite so far.

  • Reply
    Anne
    February 9, 2023 at 6:39 pm

    Tides of Honour by Genevieve Graham.

  • Reply
    Ann
    February 9, 2023 at 6:42 pm

    Feathers of Hope by Sharon Garlough Brown

  • Reply
    Annmarie Weeks
    February 9, 2023 at 6:48 pm

    My favorite book is The Great Gatsby. So I thoroughly enjoyed reading Beautiful Little Fools by Jillian Cantor! It tells the Gatsby ‘tale’ from the point of view of the female characters in the original book, along with their backstories!

    I shared with 2 friends, and also follow you on IG (as amweeksinmd).

  • Reply
    Jennifer Watkins
    February 9, 2023 at 6:55 pm

    Just Jessie by Jessie James Decker and Living Well Spending Less by Ruth Soukup were two of my favorites

  • Reply
    Tracy Andrews
    February 9, 2023 at 6:58 pm

    The London House by Katherine Reay and I read Little Women for the first time.

  • Reply
    Lila
    February 9, 2023 at 7:14 pm

    Last year I read Through the Blaze (Seasons of Faith, #2) by Milla Holt and gave it 5 stars! I already follow you on IG.

  • Reply
    Cathy Picha
    February 9, 2023 at 7:30 pm

    Amanda Tru’s The Christmas Card and then I binge-read (something I never do) her Yesterday series.

  • Reply
    Ana Brandao
    February 9, 2023 at 7:56 pm

    How Did I Get Here by Christine Caine. Her books are great!!

  • Reply
    Diana Rendon
    February 9, 2023 at 8:00 pm

    When the Day Comes by Gabrielle is Myer. I love finding a new author and throughly enjoying the book.

  • Reply
    Lynette
    February 9, 2023 at 9:10 pm

    I liked The Reading List by Sara Nisha Adam’s a lot! I had several rereads (and works I’m familiar with) as a result of my job. I did a production of Into the Woods, so spending the summer with Stephen Sondheim’s music and lyrics along with James Lapine’s script was pretty special; I was still discovering things when we performed!

  • Reply
    Joan Biancardi
    February 9, 2023 at 10:02 pm

    The book I’ll start on Monday
    God is my refuge
    Breaking through

  • Reply
    Lynn M
    February 10, 2023 at 7:40 am

    I really have many favorite books read in 2022, but Lisa Prysock’s Montana Meadows book series are some of my absolute favorites!

  • Reply
    Wendi Lou Lee
    February 10, 2023 at 11:10 am

    I read The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh in 2022. Loved it!

  • Reply
    Stephanie H.
    February 10, 2023 at 11:56 am

    Freedom’s Song by Kim Vogel Sawyer was one of many books I enjoyed reading last year.

  • Reply
    Wendy L. Park
    February 10, 2023 at 12:19 pm

    “Potiphar’s Wife” by Mesu Andrews and Tessa Afshar’s “The Hidden Prince”

  • Reply
    Jane Squires
    February 10, 2023 at 1:54 pm

    I just finished One Cinderella Day by Lorne Rose Burkard. Loved it.

  • Reply
    StuffSmart
    February 10, 2023 at 2:17 pm

    Last year I read Point Last Seen by Christina Dodd

  • Reply
    StuffSmart
    February 10, 2023 at 2:19 pm

    Following on Instagram

  • Reply
    Lily
    February 10, 2023 at 8:44 pm

    I read a book called Waves Crashing Just Like Me last year, and I LOVED it. 🙂

  • Reply
    Caryl Kane
    February 11, 2023 at 6:07 pm

    I enjoyed Rule of Law by Randy Singer.

    Already following on IG.

    Shared on Facebook.

  • Reply
    Fritzie
    February 12, 2023 at 9:47 pm

    I read the “Nano Stealth” series by Vikki Kestrel. It is a Sci-fi which is by no way a typical genre for me. I have never been disappointed by any of her books however, whether historical, current or suspense..

  • Reply
    Jeanette Durkin
    February 13, 2023 at 7:06 am

    I’d like prize number 1 because then I can buy tons and tons of books!

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      February 13, 2023 at 9:47 am

      Me, too!! Imagine all the books you could buy…

  • Reply
    Rita Wray
    February 13, 2023 at 7:32 am

    I would like Prize 1 $400 Amazon Gift Card.

  • Reply
    Jennifer Watkins
    February 13, 2023 at 8:06 am

    It’s a hard choice #2 or #3.I would hope to win # 2 can never have to many books,lol

    • Reply
      Jane Squires
      February 13, 2023 at 9:31 am

      Contest entry – love all

  • Reply
    Kim H in GA
    February 13, 2023 at 9:19 am

    Any of the three! #3, #1 and #2 in that order…maybe…

  • Reply
    Emily K York
    February 13, 2023 at 11:14 am

    “Marmee” by Sarah Miller…one of my faves of 2022!

  • Reply
    Fritzie
    February 13, 2023 at 11:41 am

    Any of the three would be great to win. #1 I could pick all the books I need to finish off started series and then some!

  • Reply
    Steph
    February 13, 2023 at 12:14 pm

    Any! But probably Amazon lol

  • Reply
    Mary Kennedy
    March 21, 2023 at 7:49 am

    Dearest Rachel,
    I know we are kindred spirits because we seem to love the same books and the same God. I am deeply enjoying my Anne of Green Gables devotional. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! I am looking forward to rekindling my friendship with Jane very soon. May God continue to bless your faith and your writing ministry for kindred spirits like me. ~Mary

  • Reply
    Cathy Garcia
    May 4, 2023 at 6:41 am

    I recently discovered your books. What a treasure they are. How I would love to sit and enjoy a cup of coffee with you, sharing God’s love and presence. Thank you for following Gods leading and sharing your heart with us

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      May 7, 2023 at 6:14 am

      Thank you, Cathy! It’s so lovely to hear from you. I love that idea!

  • Reply
    Annette Novinger
    June 30, 2023 at 9:45 pm

    I’ve just finished the Little Women’s devotional book and have been ever so blessed that you had the idea to do something like this! This is one of my all time favorite books and movies as well. I read it for the first time when in junior high and have been reading it through out the years as well. I’m drawn to the love their family had for each other as well as their closeness. I just read all of Marmee’s wise words and was so touched by reading them as a group. You did a wonderful job arranging it and I could tell you loved the book as much as I did. I look forward to reading your devo of another favorite of mine, Anne of Green Gables. Many blessings and thanks to you Rachel. Sincerely, Annette Novinger

    • Reply
      Rachel Dodge
      July 1, 2023 at 5:38 am

      Thank you, Annette! This means more than I can ever say. I’m so glad you enjoyed it. Little Women is so dear to my heart, and I can tell you feel the same way! I hope you enjoy The Anne of Green Gables Devotional! xx

  • Reply
    Joan Blosser
    August 1, 2023 at 5:50 am

    George, we seem to have lost touch. You and Rachel are so accomplished!! Richard would love to hear from you. Joanie