I keep a list of all the books I read, and at the end of each year, I go back and highlight my favorites from that year. I read The Thirteenth Tale last year about this time, and it was one of my favorites of 2006.

This is a booklover’s book, and even more so for those who like the works of the Bronte sisters or Jane Austen. It takes place in England, though no time period is given, as far as I can remember. The main character, Margaret, is a biographer, and has been summoned to the remote home of the very old Vida Winter, England’s most acclaimed author, who is ill and wants to tell her story before she dies. So, The Thirteenth Tale is the tale of Vida Winter’s childhood, which is layered with secrets and intrigue and will keep you in suspense.

I won’t say anything more of the plot, but I feel confident that anyone who likes reading fiction will greatly enjoy The Thirteenth Tale. It’s available from the Orange County Library, which delivers, by the way. It’s how I get almost all my books!

The cooking from Marianne that I’ve sampled has always been delicious, so I’m sure this is great as well.

Broccoli Cheddar Soup from Marianne Whitehill (from foodgeeks.com)

1/4 cup onion, chopped
1/4 cup butter/margerine
1/4 cup flour
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
3/4 cup chicken broth
1 1/2 cups milk
1 cup broccoli, chopped
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

In a saucepan, saute the onion in butter until tender. Stir in flour, salt and pepper, stir until smooth and bubbly. Add broth and milk all at once, cook and stir until it boils and thickens. Add broccoli. Simmer, stirring constantly, until heated through. Remove from heat and stir in cheese until melted. Serves 2.

Pam was the emcee at the Women’s Retreat this past fall. She was quite a comedian!

I heard yesterday at church that Pam just lost her father. Let’s be praying for her and her family.

How long have you been at UPC?

6 years

Where are you originally from?

Orlando, FL

What are some of your hobbies and/or interests?

Running, swimming, movies

What’s your favorite dessert?

Carrot Cake

How have you seen God work in your life recently?

I’m amazed at the way He continually provides for us through surgeries, being out of work, our own poor stewardship at times, etc.

How can we be praying for you?

Healing for Scott’s back and the provision of a job he can physically do and will love doing. Wisdom and grace as we parent teenagers.

Here’s an idea for a delicious breakfast that might just hold you over until your Thanksgiving meal tomorrow. And you can fix it this evening, and then just throw it in the oven in the morning to cook before your turkey or ham.

Happy Thanksgiving!!

Stuffed Cinnamon French Toast from Jenn Hartsfield

3 Rome Beauty apples, peeled, cored and sliced thin
2 Tbsp flour
1 loaf cinnamon swirl bread
8 eggs
1 3/4 cup milk
1/2 cup caramel sauce
1/3 and 1/2 cup sugar
1/4 tsp salt
2 (8oz) packages cream cheese
1 Tbsp vanilla

1. Coat 9×13 pan with spray. Toss apples with flour.

2. Cut loaf of bread in half diagonally to form triangle-shaped slices. Layer half the bread and half the apple slices, overlapping, in bottom of dish.

3. Whisk 6 eggs, milk, 1/3 cup sugar, and salt together. Pour half mixture over apples and bread.

4. Combine 2 eggs, 1/2 cup sugar, vanilla and cream cheese in a blender. Process until smooth and pour over bread.

5. Top with remaining apples and bread. Pour rest of milk mixture over bread. Cover and refrigerate 8 hours or overnight.

6. Bake uncovered at 350 for 55 minutes. Let sit 10 - 15 minutes before serving.

“This is great with warm maple syrup to add more calories!!”