I purposefully left the “Hemingway” post up an extra few days and didn’t post again on Wednesday. I want to thank everyone who visited the blog, left comments, liked and shared.
I am going to give away a copy of the book and album to someone who leaves a comment on this post today. And, if you missed it the first time around, here is an Amazon Purchase Link: Hemingway
REFLECTION
August is such a big month for me each year. It is not only the month Rick and I both had birthdays, but also the month he returned home from prison after fifteen years AND the month we got married.
So, I want to share a couple of short excerpts from “Home At Last.”
CHAPTER 2:
The air brakes brought the lumbering bus to a stop and the door flew open. Luke stood and gathered his meager belongings, consisting of a cheap cardboard case with a change of underwear, one change of clothes, a comb, toothbrush and shaving razor he’d been issued when he left prison. In his pocket, he carried his parole papers, which he’d glanced at often since leaving Kansas.
When he spotted Darlina at the entrance of bus station, he swallowed hard.
He maneuvered his lanky frame to the front of the bus and stepped off. He dropped his case and wrapped his arms tightly around her when she ran forward. They stood quietly, barely breathing.
His chest tightened when he saw big tears welling up in her blue eyes. He hated to see her cry, even if they were tears of joy.
“Oh Luke. You’re finally home,” her voice quivered.
CHAPTER 3:
Lily and Nicole bounded out of the front door before the car came to a complete stop.
The minute Luke opened the car door, they both flew at him. “Daddy, Daddy!” Nicole yelled.
“Let me get out of the car, girls, then I can give you both a big hug.”
Darlina watched, misty-eyed, as the girls grabbed Luke’s hands and pulled him toward the house. Luke glanced back over his shoulder at her. “Come on, Mama. Let’s join the party.”
She smiled and caught up with them.
The entire family had gathered to welcome Luke home and Mom Stone had prepared a feast including homemade chocolate pie.
Tears and laughter filled the air with joyous celebration.
When Mom Stone hugged her son, she sobbed into his shoulder. “Bubba, I didn’t think you’d ever get home.”
“Don’t cry, Mom. I’m here now and I’m not going anywhere else.” He reached for Darlina who wrapped her arms around them both.
Luke’s eyes misted when he hugged his only brother, which in turn brought a lump to Darlina’s throat. Because of cancer, Bobby no longer had any vocal chords and after suffering a stroke, he walked with a cane and dragged his left leg.
Voice hoarse with emotion, Luke hugged Bobby a second time. “It’s damn sure good to be home, stud.”
CHAPTER 4
In the chaos of everyone talking and laughing, Darlina linked her arm through Luke’s. “We did it, baby. We finally did it. Are you happy?”
Luke gave her a positively sinful grin that made her heart lurch. “Darlin’, I’ll show you how much a bit later. Bet I can get you out of that beautiful dress in nothin’ flat.”
Darlina laughed. “Promises promises”
It was a very big day in the lives of Luke and Darlina Stone. One that would never be forgotten.
A union created in heaven and sealed on earth.
***
To everyone who has read and reviewed, “Home At Last,” THANK YOU!!
Writing and Music 
Happy “Everything” this August. Your books and poetry about you and Rick are beautiful.
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Thank you, Karen!
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August sure does seem like a month to celebrate. Great snippets, Jan. Happy Birthday to you and to Rick. I wish you continued success with your book! ❤
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Thank you, Diana. I am thrilled that you stopped by and left a comment, I appreciate you!
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Happiest birthday wishes, Jan! This was such a joy to read. Yours is a beautiful journey. Thanks so much for sharing. Big (((hugs))). XO
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Thank you, Natalie! Hugs back!
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🎂🎁🎉 Happy Birthday for the 21st, Jan! The love you shared with Rick will remain in my memory and the memories of any other person lucky enough to have read of your journey. Thank you, my friend.
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Thank you, Sooz. Your words make my heart sing! Hugs!
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Happy Birthday Month Jan!
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Thanks, Wendy!
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Happy birthday Jan…and Rick, too:) I loved all your books. I enjoyed re-reading the excerpts. “A union created in heaven and sealed on earth.” Sums it up so well.
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Thank you, Denise. I am thrilled that you enjoyed the stories and that you found the excerpts worthy of re-reading. You are such an awesome person and it is a pleasure to know you, thanks to RRBC! Hugs!
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August is also the month, my dad married the love of his life, they celebrate 39 years this year. I am so touched by your life, Jan. What a wonderful legacy you and Rick created for the world. (and continue to create)
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How awesome, Annette! That is so cool that August is also special to your dad. Thanks for your beautiful comment. Hugs!
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Beautiful memories. Jan. A very Happy Birthday to you and Rick.
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Thank you, John!! I appreciate your comment.
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🙂
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Well worth leaving this post up, Jan. Loved the old wedding photo, just beautiful. Wishing you continued success with this book. Sorry if I’m repeating myself, but the cover is perfect for it. Hugs.
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Thank you, Teagan! I am so happy you enjoyed the post. Hugs!
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Happy Birthday, dear Jan. I’ve loved your series and through the books, you and Rick. Thank you for sharing your heart’s journey. Through one page after another, you’ve helped readers not only experience your love but also see their own life more completely. How remarkable! ♥
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Oh, thank you, Gwen. That was my only goal in telling these stories – that someone would see their own lives more completely. I appreciate you so much! Hugs!
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Jan- Happy Birthday, and May you have a wonderful one. I so loved your 4 book series. I hope everyone reads it.
Love you and thank you for sharing your & Rick’s life with us.
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Thank you, Tonya, for all the amazing support you’ve shown! Hugs!
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