York South Carolina with my friend Rhonda Vincent- Queen of Bluegrass!
Rhonda Vincent and the Rage are amazing and their performance never disappoints.
“OZ Forever” my Wizard of OZ collection of painting- for Dance Studio
This collection will look so cute hanging in Tammy Frye Jordon’s Dance Studio. All these paintings are sold, but if you would like to order any of the paintings I can recreate them. Enjoy the video
On Aug. 26, 1920 the 19th Amendment became part of the US. Remember those that fought for it.
Can dogs sense ghosts? Scientist can’t deny it, but is there enough evidence to prove it?
It is a scientific fact that animals, especially dogs, can sense a storm long before it hits. They seem to have a sixth sense that alerts them to danger, and gives them an extraordinary sense of direction. If this is not enough to convince you need a pup by your side it has been proven they can actually detect sickness in their owner and smell fear from a would be attacker.
But can they see the unknown, spirits or supernatural? Many people say they can. Have you ever seen your dog, stare off in space or wag its tail as if someone is approaching? Or perhaps they start barking and growling, but there is no one there.
I have witnessed this, plus my dog, Mattie, will often refuse to go in places, or walk down a certain street, especially by the park at night. Does she see ghosts or is she just afraid of the dark?
Do you think your dog or pet can see ghosts, tell us your story?
When I was … by Nancy B. Brewer
When I was weak you let me soar on eagle’s wings,
When I was cold you warmed my heart,
When I was lost your grace showed me the way,
When I stray you bring me to my knees.
Thank you Lord.
~Nancy B. Brewer
Civil War Captain John Odell’s House transformed into Halloween House—Concord, NC
John Milton Odell: Jan. 20, 1831- July, 21, 1910
History: After the Civil War Captain John Milton Odell built this mansion which stands on the corner of Buffalo and Union Street in Concord, NC. Odell was known as the “Master Mill Man” and owned and operated several cotton mills after the Civil War. He was remembered as a good businessman, a gentleman and a kind employer. He is one of the historical people who come to life in my book, “Lizzie After the War.”
For the last several years the present owners of the Odell house have turned the home into a haunted house that even Hollywood could not rival. The theatrical wonderland includes to name a few: witches, ghost, headless figures, caskets, animated figures, and ghostly images dancing in the windows. I counted at least five life-size skeleton horses, pulling carriages hosting their like families. I can’t help but wonder what Captain Odell would think? I hope he was a fan of Halloween.
If you plan to visit, please take note of the large rock that sits inside the fence closest to Buffalo Street. History has it—that Captain Odell hid behind this rock during heavy gun fire during the Civil War. Since he believed the rock had saved his life he had it moved and placed in his front yard.
Enjoy the photos:
Fun Night at the NC Music Hall of Fame Ceremony
I Never thought I would be on the red carpet, even if it was just for a photo opt.
It was a privilege to be a VIP at the 2016 North Carolina Music Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony honoring: The Avett Brothers, Band of OZ, The Carolina Chocolate Drops, Chuck Brown, David Holt, Kellie Pickler, Percy Heath and Ron Tyson.
Thanks to all that provided the wonderful food and entertainment. 
My handsome husband Vernon Brewer and award-winning storyteller and musician Mr. David Holt.
I am proud to say that the Avett Brothers are from my hometown. They are amazing musicians and songwriters, but they get it honest from their father Mr. Jim Avett who is equally as talented.
I was sorry to miss my cousin Kellie Pickler who was out entertaining the troops, but maybe next time.
Working on new book but too many distractions.
Oh, I have to get my self focused to finish my book in progress, but lately I have had so many distractions hanging over my shoulder.
Coming soon! “A Beautiful Prison”
The year is 1923, you will travel the world with a rich socialite, Eva Joe Ferguson. it is romance, adventure and a story that will haunt you. Let’s cross our fingers that it will be out before Christmas.
I have a feeling you are going to love this one! Especially the twisted end.
Get caught up on reading my others novels, so you will be ready for “A Beautiful Prison”
The Lavender House, Valle Crucis North Carolina
Many people think the only place to visit in the little town of Valle Crucis is the Mass General store, but right across the street is a real treasure the Lavender House. Spread out across the fields are rows of raised beds of all varieties of my favorite herb- lavender.
As an artist, I was drawn to the scene of a pretty young woman tending her crops. Once I crossed the street I could at once smell the aroma that I so love.
The pretty yellow cottage resting against the mountain, looked just like a painting. Picture perfect.
Lavender has been used for centuries, in medicines, teas, cosmetics and perfumes. The essential oils can be taken enteral or smooth achy joints.
The little garden shop offered all sorts of lavender soaps, creams, teas and oils. I purchased the Lavender Sugar. I love it teas and baked in cookies or tea cakes. 
It is easy to make your own Lavender Sugar. Click on the cookies for a Lavender Cookie recipe:
Flat Top Manor- built on Blue Jeans
I find myself pondering over the meaning of life as I sit on the porch of Flat Top Manor. As the sun goes done in the autumn sky I am once again reminded just how near the North Carolina Mountains are to heaven. Who could ask for more, for even a shack in Blowing Rock, is almost paradise.
What a gentle time it would have been in 1901 to spend your afternoons here: sipping mint juleps and gazing out across Bass Lake. Then think of the galas and parties that were once hosted here in this 14,000 square foot mansion.
The house is isolated just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, but it is anything but primitive. There are over 3,600 acres of lovely orchards, manicured landscaping and trails for walking and carriage rides.
But, who had the money to build such an estate: Moses Herman Kahn (Cone) the oldest of 13 children. He was born in Tennessee and his parents were German/Jewish Immigrants. As a young man he and his brother Caesar (standing in the photo) worked as traveling salesmen for his father’s dry goods company.
Moses, later owned a textile company which mainly manufactured denim for the Levi Strauss Company and the rest is history.
He married Miss Bertha Lindau Cone on February 15, 1888. The couple had no children, therefore the estate was donated to the National Parks Services in 1950.
Moses died at age 51 of pulmonary edema. Bertha lived 39 more years alone.
She was known for wearing hats with long black veils.
They are both buried in the Cone Cemetery in Blowing Rock, NC.
The house is now open as a gift shop and for special events. Visitors are welcome to hike the trails and enjoy the view.