Ciao, amici! I am so excited to have Jan Sikes visit again. Frequent followers here will immediately recognize her name. If you’re new to the site, you’re in for a treat. Jan is a talented author, a blogger who’s supportive of other writers, and a really sweet person. I’m also privileged to call her a colleague at Story Empire and a dear friend. Today, she’s going to tell us all about book two of her White Rune series, Jagged Feathers. Please help me give her a warm welcome.
Thank you, Staci, for helping me launch my blog tour for JAGGED FEATHERS!! It’s an honor to be here today.
The setting of any story is often the first impression a reader gets. The location helps create the overall tone of the story.
Vann Noble did two tours of duty overseas in the Army. He returned to the United States with a missing limb and PTSD.
He desperately needed solitude and nature to begin his recovery. So when he found a cabin on the banks of Wolf Creek, outside Cedar Springs, Texas, it was perfect. Going into town for supplies raised his anxiety level, so he chose to go early before most folks were up and moving around.
EXCERPT:
He hated going to town most of all. Too many curious people. Too many noises, and too many cars. But he’d have to do it.
A few minutes later, he leaned against the wooden railing on the long narrow porch that ran across the back of the cabin. The waxing moon reflected silver rays off the treetops. Many nights he’d stood on foreign soil and took comfort from the same moon that shimmered over the country for which he fought.
The coffee cup warmed his hands while the brown elixir settled his insides. His skin prickled as a cool fall breeze gusted around him, rustling the tree branches that shaded the cabin. He was alive. That made him one of the lucky ones. Or did it? At times he doubted. It was all a matter of perspective.
He shoved a hand through his shoulder-length brown hair. Nine months out of the military, and he hardly resembled the soldier he’d been.
The brush near the creek crackled, and Champion sprang to all fours, a growl leaving his throat.
A whitetail deer stepped out of the thicket, followed by two more.
Vann put a restraining hand on Champion’s back. “It’s okay, buddy.”
Man and dog didn’t move a muscle until the deer scampered back into the thicket.
The simplistic beauty of nature helped soothe his ragged, war-torn soul and body. Finding this cabin and the quiet solitude it provided had been nothing short of a godsend.
Wolf Creek ran deep a few hundred yards behind the log cabin. Cottonwood, cedar, and elm trees intermixed with thick underbrush lined the sloping grassy banks. Nothing could have been more suited for his much-needed recuperation.
I have had moments of that kind of blissful connection with nature, but living in a big city, they are few and far between these days. My most recent experience was a few years ago in Arkansas. I went with some friends to dig for crystals, and just being in the quiet solitude of nature was soothing and good for my soul. I want to go back!
Have you ever had a time in your life where you needed to escape into nature for rest and recuperation? Where did you go? Did you find what you were seeking? I’d love to hear from you.
BOOK TRAILER:
BLURB:
Vann Noble did his duty. He served his country and returned a shell of a man, wounded inside and out. With a missing limb and battling PTSD, he seeks healing in an isolated cabin outside a small Texas town with a stray dog that sees beyond his master’s scars. If only the white rune’s magic can bring a happily ever after to a man as broken as Vann.
On the run from hired killers and struggling to make sense of her unexplained deadly mission, Nakina Bird seeks refuge in Vann’s cabin. She has secrets. Secrets that can get them all killed.
A ticking clock and long odds of living or dying, create jarring risks.
Will these two not only survive, but find an unexpected love along the way? Or, will evil forces win and destroy them both?
SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS:
WEBSITE | BLOG | TWITTER | FACEBOOK | PINTEREST |
GOODREADS | BOOKBUB | LINKEDIN | AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE
Well, that one checks all the boxes for me. War hero. Strong woman. Danger. Mystery. Ticking clock. Romance. What’s not to like? I really enjoyed the first book of this series, Ghostly Interference, and I’ve been anxiously awaiting the sequel. I’m so glad it’s finally here.
Please use those links above, then join me in leaving Jan a congratulatory message. Grazie!
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Great post Staci. This story is well written and Jan should be commended.
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Thanks for sharing your recommendation, Rox.
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Sounds amazing, Jan! Congrats!
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I really enjoyed it, Sue. Romance and thrills… my heart rate never got a break!
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Thank you, Sue!
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Congrats, Jan!!!! I hope many new readers discover all your awesome books xxx
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Thanks for the show of support, Wendy!
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Thank you for your awesome support, Wendy!
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Congratulations to both of you on your new releases. They both sound intriguing.
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Aww. Thank you, Sandra.
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Thank you, Sandra! I can tell you Staci’s new release is a GREAT read!
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Another lovely post for your tour, Jan. I find a lot of peace in nature and it’s my go-to spot for finding some rest and restoring balance. The mountains hold a special place in my heart, so I’d head to Vann’s cabin in the woods any day. Thanks for hosting, Staci. 🙂
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That cabin sounded perfect to me, too. I was envious. Thanks for visiting, Diana.
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I agree, Diana, that nature is the best place to go to for some R&R. Thank you for stopping by and leaving a comment!
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Congratulations on your new release, Jan! A place of solitude is good for the soul especially in need of healing. Excellent except. Thanks for hosting, Staci!
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Jan did a phenomenal job of scene-setting in this story. I was soothed just by reading about the woods and the cabin. Then, of course, I got stressed because of all the danger. lol. It’s a great story.
Thanks, Miriam.
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It sounds like an engaging read, Staci! Have a wonderful weekend with your daughter!
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Thank you!
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You’re welcome, Staci!
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Thank you for stopping by Miriam. I’m glad you enjoyed the excerpt!
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Jan, I am very excited for you and am looking forward to every day of your tour. Congratulations!
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Thanks for stopping by to support Jan, Karen!
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Oh, thank you, Karen! I look forward to seeing your smiling face along the tour trail!
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This one is right up my alley! Sold! Who did your trailer, Jan? It was really good. 🙂
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I loved it, Mark. I’m happy to know it piqued your interest.
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Hi, Mark. I hope you enjoy the story should you decide to read it. I did my book trailer. I’m so glad you like it! Thanks for leaving a comment!
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Great job on the book AND the trailer, Jan.
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Congrats on the new release, Jan! The beach always does it for me. Stress and problems just seem ro roll away and suddenly become more manageable. Thanks for hosting, Staci!
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The beach is a great place to unwind. Especially at dawn, when it’s gorgeous and so few people are milling about. Thanks, Teri.
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I think the ocean is a universal calming go-to, Teri. Several have mentioned finding peace there and I have to agree. Thank you for stopping by!
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Much luck with the tour, Jan. We don’t have to go far for solitude, living near the Pacific Ocean in the heart of the redwood forest.
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Sounds heavenly, Pete.
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Oh wow, Pete! What a blessing to be in the heart of the magnificent redwoods and so close to the ocean! Thank you for your comment.
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Great post, Jan! I am always seeking time with nature. Most weekends find me at the beach, but twice a year, I make it a point to go camping. Of course, in the summer, I have my road trips, and I always make sure to visit National Parks. I feel most at peace when I’m surrounded by Mother Nature. This looks like an amazing read! Thanks for hosting today, Staci! 🙂
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That sounds amazing, Yvette. I’m most at peace in nature, too, but I don’t live near enough to the ocean to make it a frequent occasion.
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I love that you do that, Yvette, and that you are instilling the love of nature in your son as well. Thank you for stopping by and leaving a comment!
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Wonderful excerpt, Jan! Yes, when modern life gets too loud, I find a walk in the country or on a woodsy trail to be just what I need.:-)
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That seems to be a trend with most of us. I know some people who love city life, but I find it too congested and loud. Give me nature, anytime!
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I totally agree, Priscilla. A woodsy trail is a perfect place to disconnect and rejuvenate. Thank you for your comment!
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Congratulations Jan, the book sounds amazing. I enjoyed the excerpt too.
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I loved the excerpt, too, Wendy. Thanks for stopping by to support Jan.
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Thank you so much, Wendy! I appreciate you leaving a comment!
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A great start to your blog tour & book release, Jan. I love the mention of nature. Is there anything better than being surrounded by the stillness & beauty of what the Earth provides? ❤ Thank you so much for hosting, Staci. It’s always a pleasure to visit your site. 🙂 Hope you ladies have a fabulous day!!
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I totally agree, Mar! It is a great start to the blog tour AND, there is nothing better than the stillness and beauty of what nature provides for us. Thank you for stopping by! I appreciate your support!
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So glad you could stop by, Mar.
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Congratulations on your new release, Jan! I can’t wait to read it. Certain places can certainly bring peace and healing, as your excerpt reminded me. Great trailer, too! This is a wonderful launch into your blog tour, and thank you, Staci, for hosting this first stop!
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Thank you, Patty! I appreciate that you took the time to stop by and leave a comment!
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I was happy to host, Patty. Thanks for stopping by!
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Congratulations to Jan, and thanks to Staci for hosting today.
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Thanks, John! I appreciate your support!
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😊
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I’m always happy to host. Thanks for supporting Jan on launch day!
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I have yet to read anything by Jan I didn’t love. This sounds like another winner.
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Oh, thank you for the kind words, Jacqui! I appreciate your support!
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I finished it in under a day. It was wonderful. Thanks, Jacqui.
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Oh, Staci, your comment made my heart soar!!!! Thank you!
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Great post, Staci and Jan! And congratulations again on the release of your latest masterpiece, Jan. I have to say (yet again) how beautiful I find that cover. Every time I see it, I stop and admire it one more time. I’ve already got this on my Kindle and am very much looking forward to reading it. My sincere wishes for a kajillion sales, Jan! 😊❤
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I agree about the cover, Marcia. I just love it! Thank you for stopping by and I’m thrilled that you have this story waiting on your Kindle! And thank you for the kajillion wishes!! I’ll take them! Hugs!
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😂😂😂
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You’ll love it, Marcia. Jan did a great job on this one. Thanks for visiting!
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You’re welcome, and I’m looking forward to reading this one, for sure. 😀 ❤
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Thank you, Staci, for launching my blog tour in such a wonderful way! I appreciate your kind words, your support, and your friendship! I can’t think of a better way to blast-off my book baby! Hugs!
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I’m honored to have been your first stop and wish you much success with it. All accolades are well deserved. I finished it so quickly because I needed to know how it ended. Great job!
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I love the title Jan and how it relates to the story. It sounds so moving. Congrats and wishing you much success! Thank you for the wonderful post, Staci!
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Thank you, Lady Tessa. Coming up with a unique book title is difficult these days, with so many out there, but this one fits the story perfectly. Thank you for stopping by and leaving a comment today! I appreciate it.
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The title and the cover are perfect. Thanks, Tessa.
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Wonderful showcase, Staci. I’m looking forward to reading Jagged Feathers. Congratulations, Jan! ✨🎉✨
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Thank you, Gwen. Staci made my post so beautiful! I hope you enjoy the story and I appreciate you stopping by!
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I devoured it, Gwen. You’ll love it.
Thanks for visiting!
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This sounds so good, Jan! I have my copy and am excited to dive in. I’m in the middle of a rather long book, but Jagged Feathers in next on my read list. Congrats on the release.
When it comes to escaping, I love seaside relaxation the best, but any quiet walk surrounded by nature does the trick for me. I also love sitting outside on a summer evening and watching twilight settle.
Great job hosting today, Staci!
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Ah, yes, Mae. There is nothing like the soothing sound of the ocean. I love that too. I am honored that Jagged Feathers will be next on your reading list. I sincerely hope you enjoy the story.
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An escape into nature always makes me feel better. Thanks for dropping by, Mae.
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I love escaping to nature and don’t do it often enough.
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I feel the same way, Craig.
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I totally agree, Craig. Living in this huge city, getting time in nature is a treat! Thank you for stopping by today!
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Loved the excerpt, Jan. My pre-ordered copy arrived yesterday and its next up on my Kindle. Wishing you all the best! A big thanks to Staci for hosting today!
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Mine delivered yesterday, too. I’m already halfway through. Loving it!
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Oh, thank you, Staci! My heart is smiling!
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Whoo hoo!! Music to my ears, Joan. I hope you enjoy the story!
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Huge congrats to Jan on her new release! Wishing her all the best. Thanks for sharing, Staci 💕🙂
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Glad to help her spread the word. Thanks, Harmony.
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Thanks so much, Harmony! I appreciate your support!
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I enjoyed the excerpt! I’m looking forward to reading Jan’s newest book. Thanks for hosting, Staci! Congratulations to Jan!
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I loved that excerpt, too. Thanks, Jill.
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Thank you, Jill. I’m glad you enjoyed the excerpt. I look forward to sharing snippets from the book along this tour. I appreciate you leaving a comment today!
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Looks like the sky’s the limit for this one, Jan! Celebrating your every success!!
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So sweet of you, Annette. Thanks for stopping by!
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I love that, Annette! The sky’s the limit!! I’m sending Jagged Feathers off with a blast. Thank you for stopping by!
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I really must read faster, I have only just finished Book One!
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You’re in for a treat. I’m halfway through this one already and loving it!
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Looking forward to reading it!
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Lol, Jaye. I totally relate. I read as fast as I possibly can and there is always another book dangling in front of my nose like the proverbial carrot. 🙂 Thank you for stopping by and I am honored that you’ve read Ghostly Interference!
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And I thoroughly enjoyed it! 📚📚
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A great start to the blog tour. An exciting story.
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I was delighted to be the first tour stop. Thanks for hopping aboard, Darlene.
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I totally agree, Darlene! Thank you so much for stopping by!
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Good Morning, Jan and Staci,
Jan, I love plots that reveal the trueness of life and this story does that. I like how you pull us in with your setting, a man and a stray dog have found each other. Great job!
And yes, I have been in such situations and I am blessed to not be faraway from two special countries I go to whenever I seek solace.
Wishing you the best on your tour.
Thank you, Staci, for hosting Jan today.
Shalom aleichem
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Thank you for sharing that, Pat.
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Thank you for your lovely comment, Pat. How wonderful that you are close to two special places where you can renew and rejuvenate. That is a blessing. I appreciate you stopping by and leaving a comment! Have a great day!
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Congrats, Jans 🙂 I dove right into Jagged Feathers when it came out and I’m enjoying it 🙂
Thanks for hosting, Staci!
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Ditto on all counts, Denise!
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Wahooooooo!! Thank you, Denise. I am glad to hear you are enjoying the story. I appreciate your support, always!
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Congrats on the new release, Jan, enjoyed the excerpt. Whenever I’ve felt stress in life, my go-to place was the ocean. For many years that meant a twelve-hour drive to the coast, but now we live five minutes from the Pacific’s pristine shores, and I’ve never been happier.
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Sounds heavenly, Jacquie. I seek comfort in nature, too, and I’m always at peace at the beach. But I don’t live near the shore. The woods give me solace.
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The woods are my second favorite, right in front of wheat fields. I love watching the trees and the grasses sway- it’s hypnotic.
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It really is.
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Wow, Jacquie! How amazing to live so close to the place that brings you peace. That is a true blessing for sure. Thank you for stopping by and leaving a comment today! I appreciate you!
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