Christmas in Evergreen Tidings of Joy - Nancy Naigle Page 0,13
two places in my notebook right now,” Katie said to the other guest. “Those sound amazing.” Maybe she should consider nonfiction. She could see herself flitting from inn to inn across the country and comparing them to the nicest big-city hotels.
When she finally called it a night and climbed into bed that night, she had so many ideas floating through her head she could barely sleep.
Chapter Five
Katie had finally fallen asleep while reading about the long line of Greens who’d been mayors of this town, the most recent being Ezra, whom she’d just met yesterday. It was an even bigger deal than she’d realized for someone new to step into that role, not just because she was the first woman. Good for Michelle.
When she woke up, she realized she’d dreamt she was the mayor of Evergreen herself. That made her laugh. The last thing she wanted was to be mayor. And crazier than that was the thought of living in a small town like this one. Maybe the dream had been more of a call to action to settle on an idea for this book now, or else! Hopefully the day would hold something equally as exciting that screamed for a book of its own. She bounded out of bed, ready to explore.
Intrigued by the amount of tradition here, she was eager to see what else she could learn about Evergreen. She quickly showered, got dressed and raced down the stairs toward the aroma of fresh coffee and bacon.
Megan greeted her with a pot of coffee. This time she was wearing a cheerful apron with snowmen on each pocket. “I hope you got a good night’s rest.”
“I did.” Katie sat down at the dining table with another couple. “I’d love some of that coffee.” Katie turned the generous-sized mug in front of her upright.
Megan filled it, saying, “This morning I’m serving a puffy apple omelet. I know you marked the pastry and fruit on your menu, but if you’ve changed your mind, I’ve got plenty.”
The lady to her left placed her hand on top of Katie’s. “You’ve got to try it.” She raised her hands to the heavens. “Absolutely the best breakfast I’ve ever had. And I’m no spring chicken.”
“How can I say no to that?”
“I’ll be right back then. It’s really popular around here. Some people say it’s the reason they come back to stay here.” Megan gave her an appreciative nod and turned toward the kitchen.
“Do I smell bacon?” Katie asked, hopeful.
“Is it breakfast without it?”
“I like the way you think.” Katie sipped her coffee.
Megan came out with three plates lined up her arm. Without even a wiggle, she moved the plates from her arm to the table.
Katie lifted her fork and dove right in. The puffy apple omelet was not only beautiful, with the red skin of the apples peeking out from the omelet, but it was tasty. “Is it rude for me to beg for this recipe?” she asked.
“Not at all. I’m happy to share.”
The woman seated across from Katie raised her hand. “Don’t you dare share that recipe with me, else he”—she thumbed toward her husband, who was already munching—“will expect me to make this. I prefer to come back and let you make it for us. What a treat. Plus, it gives my dear husband a way to give me something he knows I’ll love.”
“Good plan.” Megan patted the man on the shoulder as she fussed with the empty cups and plates and then disappeared back into the kitchen.
Katie and the couple shared pleasantries, and it was hard not to break out a pen and paper as the couple went on and on about their previous visits to Evergreen and all their favorite memories.
“Well, we are off to the general store, and to the Christmas tree farm for a wreath-making class.” Her husband stood and held his wife’s chair for her to get up, then the two of them grabbed their coats and left.
“Can I freshen up your coffee?” Megan asked.
“No. Thank you, I think I’m ready to start my day too.” Katie handed Megan her plate. “I was wondering, is the library walking distance from here?”
“It sure is. I have a map of the town. You can walk just about anywhere. The Christmas tree farms are all a little further out on the edge of town, but if you need a ride, just let me know. I’d be happy to give you a quick lift.”