Status Updates From Unexpected Gifts (Sugarvill...

It’s the company we keep that makes the ordinary, extraordinary.

it was such a thrilling feeling—being part of a community that spent their Saturday evening waiting for the lighting of a tree as if it were as exciting as a space shuttle launch.

“I just want her to enjoy being a kid, but instead, I’m afraid she’s weighed down with grief.”

“And there’s not much you can do about it other than love her,” Luke said.

The Hayes family had this way of taking their charity and making it feel as if you were the one doing the favor for them.

“Two weeks old.” Abby shook her head. “I can’t imagine how you did it.”

“Same as you’re doing now. You adjust. You put the child first. You make it work.”

She knows how loved she is, which makes her free to be herself.

I like playing the hero, I guess. I’m certain I get more out of it than any of the folks I deliver to.

The previous owners gouged people, relying on tourists’ money. When I bought it, I wanted to turn it back into what it should be. A local business with local products. If I keep my prices competitive, they’ll keep coming here instead of going to one of the big grocery chains.

Although Max’s exuberant energy and quick wit were a juxtaposition to Luke’s steady, calming presence, they shared a kindness and decency that they’d obviously learned from their parents.

as a man of faith he knew it was not his place to question, only to trust.

Moose Antler Nachos.

“No Antlers.” Lily made a face and shuddered. She’d had a rude awakening last time they’d been here when she’d bitten into a jalapeño.

You might be surprised at the amazing things that come from the simple act of choosing love over fear.

“You may not realize how beautiful Sugarville Grove is because you’ve always lived here. But I’m seeing it with fresh eyes, and it’s simply spectacular.”

I wasn’t the smartest in my classes at school, but I made up for it by being very organized. I write everything down on a calendar, and every morning, I take a look to make sure I remember what I’m supposed to do that day.

This was not her. But she could get used to this new version of herself. Maybe this was the one she’d been meant to be all along.

the truck was rather like the man himself. Sturdy and reliable, if a little old-fashioned.

He drove a vintage red pickup, the kind that looked as if it had been plucked straight from an old postcard or holiday painting. Not that she knew much about cars, but it appeared to be a classic model, with a rounded body, wide fenders, and a gleaming chrome grille.

“Of course. They have to be your first priority. I’ll take whatever you have left.”

“Newcomers? How long have they been here?” Abby asked.

“I’d say around ten years.”

Abby laughed. “That’s not exactly what I’d call a newcomer.”

“That’s because you’re not from around here.” Luke winked at her. “But we won’t hold it against you.”

“How generous.”

He’d forever touched her heart the moment he kissed her. Would he wake to regret it? Or would he feel as she did? That it was a gift. An unexpected one, but one nonetheless.

(Source of the title!)

Her heart felt as if someone with a large, strong fist was squeezing it, wringing it dry of blood and filling it with tears instead. Ramona, I’ll do my best. I promise.

After I lost my mom, it took a long time for me to feel normal again. But someday, you will. It doesn’t mean you miss her any less, it just means you’ll have found a new way to be in the world. Even without her.