12 Days of Christmas // A Carnathan Christmas {pt.4}

Merry Christmas Eve! Hope y'all enjoy the final part of this year's story. :)



Monday, December 23rd, 1940 


The old sleigh slid through the winter wonderland, the soon-to-be Carnathan couple nestled inside. After a morning spent decorating a handpicked Christmas tree that the guys hauled inside, snow still fluttering from the branches, David had grabbed his girl and slipped out the backdoor. Raymond watched through the window, a smile on his kind face, as they skirted around the barn and climbed into the sleigh he used to ride in with his own girl. Sometimes, they still did. 

On a wooded lane through the farming community, David guided the mare through the ruts—made by a variety of farm wagons, tractors, and trucks. At a gap in the split-rail fence, he directed the horse out across the snowy field. 

“What do you think?” David asked, glancing to his right and finding Beth grinning back at him. 

She leaned her head back and drew in a deep breath, filling her lungs with the frosty cold air. “It’s so pretty out here, especially with all the snow. The God we serve is so amazing… And quite the Artist I might add.” 

“No argument there.” David smiled, gazing down and studying the serene look on her face. “I figured we might need some time alone and a sleigh ride sounded like the best idea.” 

“One horse open sleigh.”

“Something like that. You know, the bad thing about driving this sleigh is that I can’t hold your hand.” 

Laughing, Bethany scooted closer and looped her arms through his, tilting her head to rest against his shoulder. “That doesn’t matter. Just knowing you would be if you could satisfies me.” 

David bent down and planted a kiss in her hair, giving the reins a slow snap. “Get along, old girl.” 




Tuesday, December 24th, 1940


On Christmas Eve, a steady stream of neighbors threaded through the Carnathan’s home for most of the day, exchanging an array of small gifts and baked goods for similar parcels to carry to their own places of abode. 
And—of course—everyone wanted to catch up with the returned son and meet his fiance. By the time they’d escorted the last friend to the door, calling out goodbyes and merry christmases, Bethany was tuckered from the repetitious small talk. Still, there was something special about meeting all of the people who her David had known all his life. 

After supper, Lydia shooed her out of the kitchen with instructions to enjoy the rest of the evening. Giving in, she wandered into the front room and sank to the hearth. The flickering flames sent skitters of warmth up her back. 
David moved from the couch to sit beside her, then silently pointed above them. Bethany turned her eyes in that direction. Uh, oh. 

The sprig of mistletoe that Erin had hung there earlier spun gaily in the firelight. She looked back to her fiancé. “Don’t go getting any bright ideas, young Mr. Carnathan.” 

“Young Mr. Carnathan?” 

She grinned. “You’re young Mr. Carnathan and—” she nodded across the room to where David's father sat in the rocker, “—your father is old Mr…” The flames of a blush crept up her face as she realized what she’d said. “Oh my goodness. I—I’m terribly sorry, Mr. Carnathan. I didn’t mean that the way it sounded.”

Raymond chuckled, heartily. “Don’t apologize, dear. We all know you didn’t mean it that way.” 

Everyone laughed and, this once, Bethany didn’t color red at being the subject of their merriment. 

“Where does that leave me?” Michael spoke up. 

“You’re not old enough to earn the title of ‘mister’,” David suggested, earning himself an eyeroll. 

Bethany smiled and leaned her head onto David's strong shoulder. Raymond and Lydia were the best future in-laws she could’ve asked for. So understanding and encouraging, always loving no matter what. She hadn’t been in a real family setting for so long, and it was an absolutely wonderful feeling.



Wednesday, December 25th, 1940


Bethany awoke Christmas morning with an overwhelming sense of intense joy. She could almost feel the euphoria welling up inside of her. It wasn’t the same excitement she’d felt on Christmas mornings during her growing up years. This was different; deeper and more special. She was in a houseful of people who cared about her, loved her. They’d been David’s family when she’d met them, but that had changed in just a few days. Now they were her family, too, and she loved each of them dearly. 

She crawled out of bed and peeked through the curtains framing the icy window panes. A new, light snow blanket covered the disturbed snowfall from Saturday. How beautiful, she mused, a smile lighting her face. 

Turning away from the window, she realized that the house was quiet. Everyone must still be asleep. Bethany moved toward the dresser, thinking she could go on downstairs and start coffee for the family. 

She quickly dressed in a green dress with a holly and berry print, deciding to save her Christmas dress to wear to the church service tonight. She was brushing her hair when the creaking of the screen door breaking the morning stillness caught her attention. 

Pushing aside the curtain once again, she peered down to the yard below. David’s familiar figure moved from the side door toward the barn, his footprints the only ones in the winter whiteness. Apparently someone else was awake. 

Smiling to herself, Bethany skipped pinning up her hair and slipped out of the room. She tiptoed down the hallway, being careful not to make any noises that may wake someone. A few special moments alone with David this morning would be nice. 

She stopped at the door to yank on her boots and pull on her coat and scarf before slipping out into the cold, frosty morning. 


~*~


David cringed at the screeching of the screen door as it moved to rest against the doorframe. Someone really needed to oil those hinges. 

He drew in a deep breath of the crisp morning air as he tramped through the snow. It was such a beautiful Christmas morning. David smiled to himself on his way to the barn to milk Darling, the family milk cow. 

Over a thousand years ago our Savior came to save us, knowing He would die the terrible death of crucifixion for our sins. What a day, so worthy of celebration. Having Beth here with him and the family this Christmas made it all the more glorious. She made his life complete; added something he hadn’t even realized he was missing. And that something was very special.

Mind and heart filled with happy, Christmas joy, David whistled as he greeted Darling, wishing her a merry Christmas, and strode to drag over the milking stool. He’d just sat down when he nearly got startled out of his senses. 

Warm, red mittens appeared out of nowhere and clapped over his eyes. Guessing who it might be, David grinned, reminded his heart to beat, and waited for the rest of the prank. 

“My, my, who do we have here?” A sweet voice exclaimed. “Someone stealing milk on Christmas morning! Well, I’ll be! Maybe I’ll yell for Michael and his shotgun…” 

David chuckled under his breath and decided to go along with her charade. “Please ma’am, don’t do that! I’d be willing to milk the cow and do whatever else you may need done, just don’t have me killed,” he pleaded, clasping his hands in mock repentance. 

At his silly pleas, her hands fell away from his eyes and he tilted his head back to get a better view of her face. 
“It is Christmas, you know.” 

“So it is,” she smiled down at him before slipping her arms around his neck. He returned her embrace and, after releasing, nodded to Darling. 

“Mind if I finish my chores now?” 

“Go ahead.” Bethany grinned, crossed her arms tightly against her stomach, and leaned against a support post. “It’s nice to have a few minutes alone with you this morning.” 

“Yeah, it is,” he agreed, smiling up at her, and then set to work milking the cow, streams of white splattering inside the metal pail. “I figure, there’s no reason for Dad and Michael to have to come out in the cold when I’m perfectly capable of handling chores this morning.” 

While David milked and cleaned Darling’s stall, Bethany wandered around the barn—commenting to him on this and that. 

David was starting up the ladder to throw down hay for Dad’s pair of draft horses when Beth’s exclaiming gasp met his ears. “David, look!” The excited whisper soon followed. 

He looked over to find Beth standing in the doorway, her back to him. Jumping down from his start up the ladder and nearly tripping over the milking stool in his clumsiness, he hurried to her side. 

“What is it?” 

She didn’t speak, only pointed out across the yard. 

There, in the shimmering glitter of sunlight on snow, stood a mother deer and her fawn, silhouetted by the rising sun. As he watched, in awe of God’s creativity, small fingers slid into his. 

“That says it all, doesn’t it?” she whispered, seeming fearful of breaking the perfect serenity, cocking her head to the side. “The beauty, the innocence, the peace, and the pure white of the snow. It’s glorious.” 

His attention veering with his gaze, David silently admired his fiancé. A lump clogged his throat as his chest warmed with love for this sweet woman, his soon-to-be wife. “I really want to kiss you right now,” he murmured softly.

She turned to look up at him, a sly gleam in her blue eyes, stepping closer to him and slipping her arms around his waist. 

His arms encompassed her small frame, holding her snugly against him. Amazing how comfortably she fit there—how right it felt. 

“Merry Christmas, sweetheart,” he whispered into her ear. 

“Merry Christmas, my darling,” she replied, her voice muffled against his wool coat. 

An aggravated moo sounded through the barn door, left open by the couple. They laughed in unison. 

“Merry Christmas to you too, Darling!” 

// today's schedule 

Inside Out Designs || Author Interview: Faith Potts

Read Another Page || The Case of the Very Bad Cat

Qadash - Set Apart, for Him || 12 Days of Christmas - Hallelujah - What does it mean?

Lit Aflame || How to Make THE BEST Iced Sugar Cookies in Existence

The Peculiar Messenger || Live

Rebekah's Reading Room || A Carol in Her Heart (part 3)

RebekahAshleigh || Christmas, My Favorite Time of Year

Hands Made to Love || Candy Cane Cocoa Recipe

Literatura || Christmas Goodies

Resting Life || Not-So-Silent Night // Silent Night // Self-Control

Life of Heritage || Christmas Story (part 7)

Hands Made to Love || The Pine Tree Parable

Novels, Dragons, and Wardrobe Doors || Favorite Underrated Christmas Hymns

Chosen Vessels || The Christmas Candle {Book Review}



Thanks for reading the story, dears! Last day to enter the giveaway! <3
~Faith

12 Days of Christmas // A Carnathan Christmas {pt.3}

Good morning, happy Saturday, and merry Christmas!

The party schedule for today is quite full. Largest number of posts in one day so far I believe, which means lots of fun for all!

Today I bring you the third part of the four-part story, and perhaps my personal favorite. :) Enjoy and check back for the conclusion on Christmas Eve!



Bethany descended the creaky farmhouse stairs with an uncertain smile, yet a lightness in her step over doing something so unlike her. She couldn’t help snickering as she glanced down at her thrown-together outfit. Even with the galluses pulled all the way up, the overalls were still much too long. With her sweater tucked in underneath, she fit the definition of a ragamuffin. 

At the kitchen door, Erin was waiting, tugging on boots and a scarf. She turned at Bethany’s footsteps and began to laugh. 

“Just wait ‘til the fellow see you.”


~*~


From where he stood in the barn, shoulder propped against the doorway, David looked across the snowy yard. Bethany and Erin trudged towards them—both wearing old, hand-me-down overalls. A grin spread across his face. Man, she sure looked cute. 

“Oh great.” Michael’s groan drifted past on a breath of frosty white. “Erin’s been in somebody’s closet again.” 

“Yeah, yours.” 

Shoving off the doorframe, David strode into the barnyard with his hands in his pockets. “Good morning, farm girl.” 

Beth laughed, twisting in a circle to show off her get-up. “What do you think?” 

“I think…” He drew his arm around her shoulders and tugged her closer to his side, whispering into her knitted cap. “I think you look better in those than Michael or I ever did.” 

Her eyes widened. “Are these yours? No wonder they’re so long.” 

David snickered. “I don’t know, but Michael got most of my cast-offs that were still fit for wear.” 

Out of nowhere, a handful of icy slush came sailing through the air and smacked the back of David’s head. He yowled as the snow skittered down his shirt. 

“That was for keeping your swell gal a secret for so long!” Michael hollered from across the yard, already forming a second round of ammo. 

“Sure wasn’t because I feared my baby-faced brother could steal her away,” David called back, grinning at the sight of his fiance, laughing heartily, cheeks pink with cold. 

There was no time to take cover before another snowball arrived, smacking into the front of Beth’s overalls. 
“And that was for stealing my clothes without permission!”

“Hey, it was your sister’s idea!”

“I’m calling a snowball challenge,” Luke called, tossing Lenore over his shoulder and grabbing Erin by the hand. “All out war!”

“Are you sure y’all are brothers?” Beth asked as David grabbed her by the hand and nearly drug across the yard. “Because he acts nothing like you, sometimes.” 

They ducked behind the semi-seclusion of a shade tree, snow grenades already catapulting through the air. 

“And what does this all out war stuff mean?” 

Snickering over her cluelessness, David leaned closer until his forehead dropped to hers. “It means every man—and woman—for themselves.” 


~*~ 


After a brutal snowball fight—Carnathan family style—the gang clambered inside and gathered by the kitchen stove to shed soaked boots and gloves. Although laughter and good spirits abounded, no one felt like returning to the chilled outdoors for sledding. Perhaps tomorrow, someone suggested, as Mrs. Lydia passed out hot cider, coffee, and Christmas cookies, gifted from a neighbor. 

Finding her borrowed overalls too wet to comfortably dry while on her person, Bethany excused herself and slipped upstairs to change into dry clothes. 

As she returned a few moments later, rambunctious laugher emitting from the front room told her that the majority of the family had ventured away from the stove’s warmth to take up residence by the fireplace. 
Recognizing David’s voice still in the kitchen though, she halted just out of sight. 

“What do you think of her, Mom?” 

“I think you love her very much, son,” Lydia answered, as Bethany held her breath. 

“And?” 

“And, maybe even more importantly, she loves you. With all her heart.”  

“I know,” he answered softly, so softly Bethany barely heard. 

Lydia’s gentle laugh drifted around the corner. “Then why are you asking?” 

“I don’t know… I’m just so happy. She’s added so much to my life. Something that—that I didn’t even realize was missing. Do you know what I mean? Does that even make sense?”

“I certainly do. I’ve felt that way for the past twenty-seven years, son.” 


~*~


Satisfied by his talk with his dear mother, David stepped out of the kitchen. Beth had surely returned by now and would’ve probably joined the others. 

He rounded the corner—and halted. Bethany stood at the bottom of the staircase, almost hidden by the shadows. A beautiful smile was on her face even as large tears welled behind her eyes. She’d undoubtedly heard his exchange with Mom. 

“I love you,” she whispered. 

He looped his fingers through hers, smiling. “Love you more.”





Saturday, December 21st, 1940 


After breakfast on Saturday morning, Lydia gathered Erin, Bethany, and Lenore in the kitchen to get some baking done. The four fellows were banished to the outdoors with orders not to return until noon or when called as volunteer samplers. 

As the grandfather clock neared twelve, Bethany—with Lenore’s help—was working on decorations for the sugar cookies while Lydia and Erin started on lunch for the family. 

Bethany wiped her finger along the edge of the bowl, nabbing the about-to-drip frosting. She quickly licked her finger and found Lenore grinning up at her. 

“Good, huh?” 

Bethany bent down to whisper to the little girl who would soon be her niece; she smiled at that thought. “It’s delicious, but don’t tell your mama and grandma that we’re sampling the goodies.” 

“Okay,” Lenore whispered, obviously enjoying sharing a secret. “I won’t tell.” She licked more of the gooey frosting from her small fingers. 

Loud shrieks resounded across the barnyard and heavy footsteps bounded across the porch. The women glanced up from their duties as a figure darted passed the window. Michael appeared in the doorway, red-faced and panting, with David following mere seconds behind him. 

The screen door slammed behind the brothers as David chased Michael around the dining room table, yelling something about snow down his shirt and revengeful justice. 

Lenore giggled from her perch on the countertop and Bethany watched the two with amusement. 

“I’m gonna give you what-for!” 

“What-for?” Michael repeated as he rounded the table for the third time. “But for what, big brother?” He howled at his own joke as he took off up the stairs with David on his tail. 

Bethany laughed at the screams and laughed floating down the stairs. “Mrs. Lydia, how did you ever manage this wild group for all these years?”

Lydia laughed. “A lot of prayers, dear. A lot of prayers.” 






Sunday, December 22nd, 1940


Walking into the white, snow-dusted church on David’s arm, Bethany stopped to look up at the steeple and the bell below it, ringing out the hour to the community. 

“It’s beautiful.” 

She didn’t realize she’d spoken her thoughts aloud until David verbally agreed. 

“Yup. I always thought the church looked all the more glorious draped in snow.” 

She smiled and squeezed his arm with her mittened hand, tipping her head against his shoulder. “You’re such a romantic.” 

David snickered as he led her on towards the church steps. “Dad would tell you that trait comes from him.” 

Bethany laughed with him, but quieted before they reached the door where the pastor was welcoming the members of his congregation. 

The man in the black suit was sixty-something, she would’ve guessed, with thinning gray hair and a pleasant smile. His smile grew when he saw the Carnathan clan approaching. Or, rather, when he saw all of the Carnathans crossing the snowy lot. 

James and Lydia exchanged seasonal greetings with the gentleman and proceeded on into the church. Erin, Luke and Michael, toting Lenore, followed closely behind them. 

After stopping to admire the church, David and Bethany ended up climbing the few, icy church steps a few minutes later—another couple having slipped in between them. 

“David!” The pastor greeted, pumping his arm. “How are you?” 

“Doing well,” David shook the man’s hand. “How are you, sir?” 

“Can’t complain.” He was very different from Frank, the young pastor at Cana’s Protestant Church, but Pastor Howard seemed to fit this community. “Your parents said you were coming up for Christmas and bringing someone special.” 

With those words, he turned to shake Bethany's hand. “Good morning, ma’am. I’m Pastor Howard.” 

“Bethany Henderson,” she smiled warmly as she shook his hand. 

“My fiancée,” David quickly added. 

The minister chuckled. “I heard that, too. All Mrs. Lydia talks about is wedding plans.” His gaze swept the empty lot with a quick survey. “We’d better get inside or Maria will start the service without me.” 

“Who’s Maria?” Bethany whispered as they ducked through the double doors. 

“Maria is George’s wife, the Sunday school teacher, and the church pianist.” 

“Busy woman,” Bethany commented, as David led her down the center aisle of the church and into the pew next to the rest of the family. 

“A true server to the people of the community,” David agreed. 

No sooner had they taken their seats, than a young woman approached, made up like some kind of Hollywood star. 

“David, darling! Whatever brings you back to these parts?” 

David turned at her appearance, politely standing and taking her hand. “Christmas, of course. It’s been awhile, Clara. How are you?” 

Bethany fought a grimace at the woman’s excessive eyelash batting. 

“Oh, you know. Just the usual. Nothing exciting ever happens here.” Clara leaned closer to David, as if she were going to say something no one else was meant to hear. “Who’s this doll you’ve brought home to the folks?” 

“Oh, right.” Disengaging his hand from Clara’s possessive grasp. “Clara, meet my fiancée, Bethany Henderson. Beth, this is Clara, a childhood friend.” 

Wearing a sufficient heel, Clara was nearly as tall as David—making Bethany feel quite dwarf-like standing between them. 

Clara reached out a hand to Bethany. “Congratulations, hon. We all tried to snag him. Looks like you did it.” She grinned, revealing white teeth behind too-thick lipstick. “Best wishes, David.” The blond woman who wore entirely too much on her face winked at him and waltzed off.

Bethany glanced over at her fiancé. “Who was that? An old girlfriend?” 

“Clara Holland?” David smirked. “Goodness, no. We went to highschool together.” He winked at her. “You should know by now that I prefer the cute and quiet girls.” 

Bethany rolled her eyes at his teasing and leaned around him to speak to his sister. “Is this all true, Erin?” 

David’s sister laughed. “They did go to school together and as for girlfriend I think he’s right there too. David never thought he had time for the girls. He preferred to have his nose buried in a book.” 

David snorted. “You can’t talk, sis. You’re a pretty good bookworm yourself.” 

“I just looked up more often than you,” Erin grinned before turning back to Lenore. 

Bethany nudged David, regaining his attention. “Y’all are really good at changing the subject. What else about this Clara character is so funny?” 

“She seemed to think,” David started, trying to maintain a straight face, “that she and I were going to elope. Just run off to California, get married, and go into acting together.” 

Bethany raised her gloved hand to stifled a laugh. “You, an actor?”

David did his best to act offended—and failed tragically. “What? You don’t see what Clara saw?” 

“Sorry, but no,” Bethany shook her head. “Her, though? An actress? Absolutely. She would be like…the villain’s wife or something.” 

David’s eyes widened and he quickly looked down, trying not to burst into laughter and cause a scene in church. 

“Oh my goodness,” Bethany exclaimed, her cheeks blushing. “Did I really say that?” 

// today's schedule 

Jenna Terese || Infant King - a flash fiction story

Green Tea and Books || My Top Three Wintery Books: Why I Like Them and Why YOU Should Read Them

Read Another Page || A Pony for Christmas

Qadash - Set Apart, for Him || 12 Days of Christmas - Beyond the Horizon (book review)

Chosen Vessels || Silent Star {Book Review}

Life of Heritage || Christmas Story (part 6)

Twin Thoughts || Why Fruitcake

Novels, Dragons, and Wardrobe Doors || Still Too Many

RebekahAshleigh || Favorite Christmas Movies - Part 2

Novels, Dragons, and Wardrobe Doors || The Best of Hallmark Christmas

The Ramblings of a Bookworm || Till the Dawn Breaks (a WW1 Christmas tale)

Hands Made to Love ||  Guest Post // 12 Days of Christmas Song Origin

Inside Out Designs || Author Interview: Ryana Miller

Resting Life || Mirrored Faith // O Come, O Come Emmanuel // Faithfulness



Three days until Christmas, and only two days until the giveaway closes! 
~Faith

12 Days of Christmas // A Carnathan Christmas {pt.2}

Part two has arrived! Featuring music and a clothing dilemma. ;)



By the time suitcases and gifts were hauled inside, amongst a dozen other conversations and bouts of laughter, it was time for a dinner which Bethany readily helped prepare. Working in the kitchen with the others made her feel all the more accepted and at home. 

After the dishes were done and the kitchen cleaned, the family gathered in the living room. 

Bethany sank into the couch next to David with a sigh. “Many more meals like that one and I’ll explode.” 

David pulled his arm around her shoulders and kissed her cheek. “Mom enjoys feeding people. If cooking and serving was a hobby, that would be hers.” 

Lydia laughed as she took the rocking chair across from James and picked up her knitting. “Oh, David, how you joke.” 

“So, I’m curious,” Raymond began, his booted foot setting his rocker in motion again. “How did you two first meet?” 

Bethany grinned. “Which version of the story would you like to hear, Mr. Carnathan?” 

Raymond laughed, his carefree guffaw much like his son’s. “Probably yours, dear.” 

“I was working at the Cana Diner, my first day. This group of men wanted me to, uh, share their lunch break. But I wasn’t interested. When they persisted, David came to my rescue.”

“Always the knight in shining armour,” Michael jeered, which earned him one flying throw pillow from the ‘knight’ in question.

Raymond ignored his sons’ rivalry and nodded for Bethany to go on. 

“I went back to work and David took a seat across the dining room. A few minutes later a young woman and a little girl came in and sat with him. I assumed it was his wife and daughter. Needless to say, I was quite surprised when he asked me out the next week.” 

Erin and Luke snickered at the replay of the meeting in the diner. 

“Wait, who was the woman and girl?” Lydia asked, obviously not getting the joke. 

“Erin and Lenore, Mom.” David explained, snickering at the memory. “Who else?”

Now understanding what everyone else was finding so amusing, Lydia joined in the family's laughter. 

“So that’s why you acted so strange that day,” David concluded as the laughter died down. “I don’t think I ever knew that.” 

“I think we need some music,” Erin suggested, glancing around. “What do y’all say?” 

“I’m wondering where on earth that though came from,” Raymond mumbled as Lenore crawled into his lap.

Erin shrugged. “You always did call me spontaneous. Michael, get your guitar. David, where’s yours?” 

At their sisters requests both brothers went into action. Michael’s footsteps carried through the house as he mounted the stairs and plodded down the upstairs hallway. David left Bethany’s side and went out to the truck in quest of his own stringed instrument. 

While the fellows got situated on the couch, Lydia gazed wistfully at the beautiful piano, festively adorned with doilies, pine boughs, and candles. "Erin, I always thought you should've learned to play that beautiful music maker. My mother tried to teach me, but I never had the desire it took to be very good at it.” 

Bethany spoke suddenly, surprising even herself. “May I play it?” She’d been admiring the delicately detailed piano since she first laid eyes on it. 

David looked up with a start. “You can play the piano?” he exclaimed, mouth agape. 

“Yes…well, a little. I’m not very good.” Bethany glanced around, realizing how much attention she had unintentionally drawn to herself. “Is that…such a surprise?” 

“In a way it is,” David said as he laid the guitar aside on the couch, stepping closer to her and snagging her fingers. “You’ve never told me that.” 

“I guess I never thought of it,” Bethany smiled, memories flooding her mind and no doubt showing through in her eyes. "Mama was teaching me when she…when she took sick." 

Shoving the melancholy memories to the far back of her mind, Bethany squeezed David’s hand and glanced around at the wonderful family that surrounded them. She took a hesitant step toward the piano and then stopped. 

“Do you mind…?” Bethany asked of her mother-in-law-to-be. 

“Of course not, dear.” Lydia moved forward to clear the piano bench of Michael’s guitar case. “You go right ahead; we’d love to hear you play.” 

Bethany smiled and slid onto the polished bench. David returned to his spot on the couch next to Michael. “Like I said, I haven’t played for years. It may take me awhile to get the hang of it.” She nervously straightened her skirt. 

“Don’t worry about it,” Raymond assured her, ignoring the pointed glare from his wife and settling into his viewpoint in the old grey rocker.

Bethany let her fingers rest for a moment on the smooth, ivory keys. Oh, it had been so long since she’d played. She pressed down a key, sighing at the beautiful vibration. 

After running a few scales, Bethany twisted on the bench. “Any requests?” 

“How about Joy to the World?” Michael suggested. He snatched a couple pages of sheet music from the top ot the piano, offering them to her. 

Bethany just shook her head. “No, thanks.” She gave a playful grin to the two brothers seated across from her and started into the lively strains of Joy to the World. 


~*~


Will she ever cease to amaze me? David wondered as he watched his sweet fiancé pound out a lively rendition of the age-old carol. 

Probably not, he concluded. And he was rather glad of the fact. She was certainly full of surprises.
As she brought the second verse to an end, she paused and glanced over her shoulder. “Any feedback?” 

“Beautiful,” David smiled.

“I’m a little rusty.” 

“I was referring to the musician not the music, though the statement stands true for both.”

Beth smiled, blushing and glancing away. “Well… Think you fellows can keep up? I need some accompaniment.” 

Michael grinned and positioned his guitar across his knee. It was already quite obvious than Beth had won him over. “You name it, we’ll play it.” 

“How about Go Tell it on the Mountain?” 


~*~


Later that night Bethany sighed as she closed the door to the small room designated as hers for the week. 

She crawled under the heavy, handmade-with-love quilts and snuggled her face into the pillow. David… As many years as it had been his scent has subtlety lingered. A sleepy smile spread across her face and she pressed a kiss to the worn pillowcase. 

She didn't figure she would have any trouble falling asleep here tonight. 


~*~


Friday, December 20th, 1940 


Bethany was roused out of bed the next morning by a loud knocking. Squinting at the morning sun as she rolled over, it dawned on her that everyone else must be up and about. And here she was lounging in the bed! What would the family think of her? 

Throwing the quilts aside, she shivered appreciatively at the feel of the cold floor beneath her feet. Something that most people found to be uncomfortable, yet she enjoyed. 

The loud knocking persisted. 

“I’m coming, I’m coming!” 

Expecting David and at the same time knowing him more of a gentleman than to wake her up, Bethany skirted around her mostly-unpacked suitcase and crossed the room. She opened the door and took a quick step back when Erin nearly fell into the bedroom. 

“What on earth is the matter?”

“Hurry and get dressed! We’re going sledding.” Erin’s wide smile displayed her girlish enthusiasm. “Lenore and the guys are out in the barn looking for our old sleds right now.” 

“Sledding?” Bethany repeated. Uh oh. 

Erin nodded. “Don’t even tell me you’ve never been sledding before, dear.” 

“Gracious, no!” Bethany laughed. “I mean, of course I’ve been sledding before, but…” She bit her lip. What would be the best way to voice this? 

“What is it?” 

“Well, at least they’re your husband and brothers, but I can’t…do that.” 

Erin’s left eyebrow arched upward. “Do…what?” 

“I can’t, ya know, sled in a…ladylike manner. Without my skirt going…too far in the wrong direction.” There. She’d said it. 

Erin snickered. “I’m sorry; I don’t mean to laugh. It’s just that I used to have the same problem.” 

“Used to?” Bethany asked quickly. 

Erin nodded. “I found a remedy for it years ago, though. I’ll be right back.” She turned and hurried out the door, her footsteps echoing down the hall. 

While waiting for Erin’s return, Bethany brushed her hair and wove it into a milkmaid braid across her head. She was digging through the dresser for her warmest clothes, when Erin knocked on the door and then stuck her head inside. 

“Bethany?” 

She spun around, thick wool socks in hand. “Yeah?” 

“What do you think?” Erin sashayed into the room wearing a red sweater and an oversized pair of faded, denim overalls. 

“You look the part of a farm girl, Erin,” Bethany giggled. “Those are absolutely darling! But I’m pretty sure they’re not yours.” 

“Of course not, I borrowed them,” Erin shrugged. “Michael will get over it.” She held up a second pair of overalls in front of her. “Well?” 

Bethany pointed to herself. “For me?” 

“Of course! You're just as much a farm girl as I am.” Erin thrust the clothing into her hands. “Put them on, hurry! Won’t the guys be surprised!” 

// today's schedule 

Life of Heritage || Christmas Giveaway! Five Free Books!

The Peculiar Messenger || Emmanuel

I Like That || Christmas Movies I Want to Watch

Resting Life || The Song of a Song // It Came Upon a Midnight Clear // Kindness

Novels, Dragons, and Wardrobe Doors || My Favorite Christmas Albums

Qadash - Set Apart, for Him || 12 Days of Christmas - Christmas Books

RebekahAshleigh || Recipe

Rebekah's Reading Room || A Tour of Garlandsburg (part 2)

Colorful, Creative Cards || Merry and Bright

Read Another Page || Christmas Quilts

Lit Aflame || What to Do When You Can't Find the Right Gift

Hands Made to Love || Pictures

Chosen Vessels || The Bridge {Book Review}

Inside Out Designs || Author Interview: Sarah Holman



Favorite post of the party so far? Have you entered the giveaway? 
~Faith

12 Days of Christmas // A Carnathan Christmas {pt.1}

Can y'all believe it's only a week until Christmas? I'm in a bit of denial myself. But hey, all my shopping is complete! Rather happy about that. :)

Also—I have something special for y'all today. For anyone who's been patiently awaiting the release of War Tears (I'm tentatively thinking of a May release, by the way), this may especially interest you. Every other day, today through Christmas Eve, I'll be sharing a part of my short story entitled A Carnathan Christmas. Set during Christmas of 1940, this story focuses on the main characters of War Tears, about a year before the novel begins.

Enjoy! <3



Tuesday, December 17th, 1940


David Carnathan climbed the stairs leading to his fiancée’s apartment with an eager gait, and paused to rap on the door. A white haze puffed out of his muffler with each breath as he waited for her to answer, prompting a grin. There was just something special about cold weather. 

A noise from the other side of the door drew his attention back to the reason he was there in the first place. 
The door swung open and Bethany appeared; bright eyes and a cheerful smile. “David! Hello! I wasn’t expecting you. I thought Pete would have you up under some greasy, oily engine.” 

David laughed, heart full of joy. “Pete closed up the mechanic shop until after Christmas. I’m running a few errands.” 

Her nose scrunched up. “I’m considered an errand now?” 

“No, never,” he shook his head. “I’ve already taken care of that. Now I’m playing delivery boy.” 

She peeked past him and canvassed the porch. “And what are you delivering?” 

David heightened an eyebrow, thoroughly enjoying teasing her. “Persistent, aren’t you, Miss Henderson?” 

“Is this where I’m supposed to say please?” 

“Alright. You win,” David snickered. “I’m here to offer an invitation. To you, from the Carnathan family.” 

She smiled sweetly, the tease slipping away. “Invitation for what?” 

“To spend Christmas on the farm with the family.” David carefully gauged her reaction. She had no one else to spend the holiday with, no reason to turn him down. But still…they hadn’t talked about her meeting his family ahead of time. 

“I don’t think we've discussed this before, but ever since Luke married my little sister, they’ve rotated back and forth from Mom and Dad to Luke's parents for Christmas and such. This year they’re bringing Lenore and coming to Mom and Dad’s. We’re driving up Thursday and I want you to come with us. I was going to ask you Sunday, but Luke and Erin’s weren’t sure of their plans with the passing of his father this year and all.” Now he was just 
rambling and making up excuses. He stopped and waited for her response. 

Bethany stepped out onto the porch, arms crossed, looking chilled without a sweater. “I'd like that, David. Very much.” She smiled up at him. “It seems terrible that we’re engaged and I haven't even met your parents or your brother.” 

“I know,” he nodded somberly. “But we’re going to enjoy changing that. You'll love the farm.” 

“I did grow up on a farm, you know.” 

“So I heard.” 

Her eyes took on a faraway look. “Daddy always said I’d marry a plow-boy. I wish you could’ve met him, David.” 

“I wish I could’ve met him too.” Wanting to do away with the melancholy look in her eyes, he leaned down and kissed her forehead. “Have I told you how much I love you lately?” 

“Not today.” Bethany smiled and gave him a hug. “And I’ll never tire of hearing it.” 

“Good.” He held her close and rested his cheek against her hair. “Because I’ll never tire of saying it.” 


~*~ 


Thursday, December 19th, 1940 


Thursday morning dawned bright and clear. Bethany woke up excited that she would soon meet David's parents. Yet, at the same time, her heart pattered with apprehension. What if Mr. and Mrs. Carnathan didn’t approve of their son’s bride-to-be? 

She shrugged off the silly possibility. That was nonsense, of course. If Lydia and Raymond were anything like their elder two children, they would get along splendidly. 

David’s truck rumbled to a stop at the bottom of the stairs promptly at eight o’clock. Bethany grinned from her perch at the window as she took in the spring in his step, the evidence of anticipation as he bounded up the stairs to greet her. 

The joy stayed in her heart as she fairly ran to answer the door, humming the tune of a carol. When she gave the doorknob an effective yank, David nearly tumbled into her living room. 

He laughed, steadying himself against the doorframe and grabbing her by the hand. “Ready to go.” 
“Ready as I’ll ever be. My bag is on the chair.”


~*~ 


The younger Carnathans set out for the hill country to spend the holiday with the parents and youngest of the family. David’s sister Erin, his brother-in-law Luke, and their daughter Lenore followed the engaged couple in another vehicle. 

During the hours spent in the cab of David’s pickup, the couple carried on as best a conversation they could over the rumbling engine. As they entered a rutted lane, lined with snow-dusted firs and pines, Bethany pressed her face to the cold window and soaked up the mountainous scenery. The truck rounded a final bend in the road and the Carnathan farm came into view.

“Oh, David…” Bethany gasped, exclaiming over the picturesque farm. 

Squeezing her hand, David pulled the truck to the side of the road and stopped. Luke curved around them and rumbled on toward the house. 

Bethany hardly noticed as she took in the tidy place. The whitewashed farmhouse stood firmly with it’s two stories and wrap-around covered porch. The humble abode gave an air of safety and… home. A rustic red barn sat off to the side, offering shelter to a multitude of animals she was sure. A vegetable garden, turned under for winter, covered the patch of raw land to the opposite side of the house. Other eye-catching interests scattered about the little hollow included a well house and a large maple tree with a rope swing hanging from a study branch. 

“What do you think?” 

She turned at the sound of David's voice. “Oh, it’s...wonderful!” She scooted closer to him and clasped her hands around his arm. “Just perfect.” 

David grinned, beyond pleased that she shared his love of the family’s farm, and maneuvered the truck around a few pot-holes until the came to a stop in the front yard. 

Bethany knew Lydia and Raymond right away as they came out of the house and into the yard to greet their children. David’s mother was especially beautiful for her age. Her auburn hair and the upturn of her nose reminded Bethany of Erin’s features, but the color and shape Mrs. Carnathan’s eyes most definitely resembled David. 

Bethany figured she would’ve been able to pick Raymond out of a roomful of men. Tall and strong, David took after his father in height and build very much. 

As David climbed off of the truck and came around to open her door, Bethany watched through the windshield as hugs were exchanged between Erin and her parents, then all the more so when Luke and Lenore joined them. 

“Prepare to be the center of attention.” David grinned as he helped her down to the slushy ground. 

“Oh, I’d rather not be.” 

“Sorry, dear, it’s not like you have much of a choice.” 

“David!” 

Bethany and David turned as one when the call sounded from behind them. 

A young man appeared from the shading of the barn and ran toward them. Bethany smiled when he and David embraced, laughing and slapping each other like guys were inclined to do. 

“Michael, I’d like you to meet Bethany. Beth, my not-so-little brother.” David was quick to make introductions. 

“So nice to finally meet you, Michael,” Bethany exclaimed. “I’ve heard ever so much about you.” 

Michael took her hand and swooped into a bow as though he were greeting royalty. “The pleasure is all mine, madam.” 

David rolled his eyes, but Bethany laughed. “So you are a jokester like your brother.” 

Michael’s grin split his face, and he whacked David on the arm. “She’s got you all figured out.” 

“Are you going to keep her hidden away over there all week?” Someone inquired from the other side of the yard. 

“I just might.” That wide, boyish grin she loved so much hiked back into place on David’s features. Taking Bethany’s hand, he guided her around the truck and toward his parents. Michael sauntered along behind them. 

Bethany took a deep breath as she approached her future in-laws, quelching her doubts. But Bethany knew she had no cause to worry as soon as Lydia swooped down on her, grabbing her in a loving, bone-smashing hug. 

“Oh, how are you you, dear! We’ve heard so very much about you. Oh, you’re just as lovely as David has told us.” Lydia fairly bubbled, exclaiming over the engagement ring on Bethany’s left hand and hugging her daughter-in-law-to-be over and over. Although a bit flustered by all the attention, Bethany knew right away where Erin got her talkative nature. 

“It’s a pleasure to meet you all, as well,” Bethany returned, though she was pretty sure no one heard her among all the ruckus. 

Never ceasing her loving chatter, Lydia moved from Bethany to David, pulling him down into a firm embrace. “How are you, son? You look well. It’s been too long since we last saw you!”

Raymond approached her next, three-year-old Lenore clinging to his neck. Bethany liked him at once. He smiled and offered her a half-hug of sorts. “I’m so glad to finally meet you, m’dear. You’re all David talks about.”

“A pleasure to meet you as well.” Bethany found that her smile came easily. “How are you feeling after your…escapade?” A tractor accident during the summer had left Mr. Carnathan laid-up for months. 

Raymond brushed it aside. “Ah, that was nothing.” 

“Oh, really?” Bethany countered, eyebrow raised. 

“What am I going to do with him?” Lydia shook her finger in falsified anger and then her head in mock despair. “I should warn you about the Carnathan men, dear. They’re terribly stubborn, but—” 

“Mom!” David broke in, tugging Bethany closer to his side. “You’re supposed to wait to tell her this stuff until after the wedding!” 

Lydia rolled her eyes at her son. “As I was saying before someone interrupted me, they’re stubborn, but they have soft spots, too.” 

Bethany grinned. “You’ll have to tell me more about that sometime, Mrs. Carnathan.” 

“Oh goodness, we can’t have you calling me Mrs. Carnathan when that will be your title as well pretty soon. Lydia will do just fine.” 

“Alright,” Bethany agreed with a smile, but figured she would still add a “missus” to the name. Mrs. Lydia just seemed to fit this sweet lady, mother to the man she loved. 

“Well, come along!” Lydia waved for everyone to follow her as she started for the house. “Less than a week until Christmas and there are still millions of things to do!” 

David bent his head closer to Bethany's ear. “Told you,” he whispered. 

She grinned up at him adoringly. “They’re even more wonderful than you said.” 

// extra

Kaylee of Kaylee's Kind of Writes is hosting a Christmas giveaway—and my darling Behold is featured! The giveaway also includes an ebook each from four other indie authors, including another of our 12DoC-ers—Rebekah Morris. :)

Open December, 18th through 23rd. Enter here!

// today's schedule 

Qadash - Set Apart, for Him || 12 Days of Christmas - Christmas Movies

Resting Life || The Peace of Our Daily Chaos // Break Forth, O Beauteous Heavenly Light // Peace

Inside Out Designs || Author Interview: Faith Blum

Literatura || Christmas Traditions

Novels, Dragons, and Wardrobe Doors || The Least and the Lowest

Life of Heritage || Christmas Story (part 3)

Read Another Page || One Last Christmas

Lit Aflame || Everything You Need to Know About The Upcoming FREE Short Story: The Rose’s Maker

Hands Made to Love || Don't Get Caught Up

RebekahAshleigh || Christmas Memories/Traditions

Chosen Vessels || A Dog Named Christmas {Book Review}



Thoughts on the story thus far? Do you usually visit family out of town for the holidays? 
~Faith