This is my first novel. It was published in 2010. There are now 2 more novels in this CHURCH DOORS series.  It tells the story of Nikolis McQuaige (NikkiMac), who has a colorful history, but then she's added to the church. Read about the joys and challenges she faces as a Christian. You'll meet some familiar characters and cheer her on when she gets up after she falls. Available from www.amazon.com , my website: www.sylviabrownroberts.com and Eric at Classics Books <book_cellar@mindspring.com>

Bags, Bags, Bags

I should always follow the rules that work for me. Case in point: those carousels for plastic bags the cashiers use in some stores. My rule: ask the cashier how many bags I have as I gather them to place in my cart. That way, I count the bags of purchases to make sure I leave with what I bought. I didn't follow this rule yesterday, so when I looked for this cough syrup at home yesterday evening, I realized I didn't count my bags. I must have left this bag hanging on the carousel at the store.
Good news! I returned to the store today and asked a cashier about it.  She looked in an area behind the counter and then handed it to me! I thanked her enthusiastically.  I think she tried to make me feel better by saying, "Yesterday, a customer left without the broom she paid for."
Smiles,
Sylvia
www.sylviabrownroberts.com

Digging in the Dirt

Growing up, I enjoyed watching my Mom pot and re-pot plants. The smell of green and the smell of the soil: calming. Mom taught me to look underneath the pot to check for roots growing through the drain holes, which indicated the need for a bigger pot.  Water the plant without drowning the roots. Fertilize and trim the plant like this. Gently remove the plant from its old pot. Pack the soil when you re-pot. She taught me so many things about plants. She always gave me clear directions in a soothing voice. She taught me to respect the plants and the soil. She's still a "country girl" at heart. Each time I water or pot/re-pot a plant, I think of Mom. It's a soothing activity.  This is my latest re-potted plant.
Sylvia
www.sylviabrownroberts.com

Water Taxi View

My view from the water taxi traveling from Old Town Alexandria to the National Harbor. So soothing. That's all.
Smiles,
Sylvia
www.sylviabrownroberts,com

A Peaceful Rest for Rita

In 2015, one of my dearest friends was called to her rest. Today is her birthday. 
She no longer walks this earth, but she remains in the hearts of those who love her.
I feel her absence. 
I miss her presence.  I recall Revelation 14:13.
I thank God for loved ones here and for those who rest in peace.
Sylvia
www.sylviabrownroberts.com

Brothers on the Corner Singing

Back in the day in many urban neighborhoods it was common to see and hear the young men singing popular songs on the corner. They sounded great! Recently, this group of men performing for tourists in Old Town Alexandria, VA reminded me of those good old days in the neighborhood.
Good memories!
Sylvia
www.sylviabrownroberts.com

Envelope Check

I found this bank envelope under a chair in my room. It wasn't from my bank, so I figured someone had given the envelope to me. That means some money for me must have been in it once. The first thing I did was hold the envelope up to the light to see if there was money inside. Next, I stuck my fingers inside to see if I'd missed anything. The envelope was empty, but I did not want to make a mistake and throw away cash.

Do you check your envelopes before you throw them away? Maybe it's just me. Lol!
Smiles,
Sylvia
www.sylviabrownroberts.com