Serendipity or The House is Back!

Serendipity...the occurrence and development of events by chance in a happy or beneficial way...

Well, I am the recipient of a serendipitous event.  When I first wrote, "My Days with Nell', the cover of the book was different than subsequent covers. Originally, the beautiful Biltmore House was on the cover with the three main characters looking on at her beauty and grandeur.  As per an agreement with the wonderful folks at Biltmore and their attorneys, we agreed to use that cover for the first printing only.  After our first printing sold out in 8 weeks, we ordered more.  The next cover was gorgeous as well... as the girls now overlooked the beautiful Deer Park and Pisgah Mountain in the distance.  As those sold, it was time for another printing.  My publisher and I were so excited to place the order for our third printing. However, due to a mistake in the ordering process, this order of books arrived with the House back on the cover. It was truly an honest mistake and my publisher was devastated at her mistake.  She mourned over it for days before she told me what had happened.  After all, it is expensive to have books printed, especially hard back, full color books.  Knowing that we could not sell the books or profit from them in any way, the publisher knew she had two options...1. The books would have to be destroyed.  2.  Offer them to Biltmore as a gift.  There was no other way.  She wrote a lovely letter to Biltmore explaining what had happened, and to our delight, they accepted the entire third printing for their stores to sell.  Financially, this was not the best thing for the publisher or me since we will not receive any compensation or royalties at all.   However, as far as I am concerned, writing "My Days with Nell" was never done for monetary reasons. I just want my book in Biltmore's hands.  I am honored they have consistently carried the book since 2013, when it was released.  It was a dream come true for them to embrace my children's book and I am and will always be grateful to them for accepting my work.  For everyone else, you will have the opportunity to purchase the book as it was in its original form.... with our Lady on the Hill proudly on the cover.  Virginia Palmer, my wonderful friend and illustrator, is so very talented and her work is unbelievably beautiful. So if you're at Biltmore, you might want to pick up a copy... cause when these are gone... They're gone!

I love seeing Biltmore through the eyes of my grandchildren.  We have visited many times and I love that they "get it."  The oldest has asked a couple times for a rooftop tour.  Usually I have all three of them and the youngest, who is five,  is just too young to do it at this time.  It requires quite a bit of walking and climbing over 250 stairs. On the tour you are in high places, and tight spaces. And like I said, he is just not ready for it. :) But recently,  I had Brady, who is 10, alone for a few days. I knew this was the right time so I scheduled our tour. We had a wonderful day, one I will never forget. Brady was so excited and was inquisitive, attentive, and polite. We had the most wonderful guide, Michael, who obviously loves Biltmore. It was evident in every word he spoke. He was very knowledgeable about the history of the house and told us lovely stories that made the house come alive. He was so kind to answer all of Brady's questions and mine too. For those of us who love Biltmore, it is magical to see her capture yet another soul in her web. She has captured Brady.  And this Nana is happy.... and blessed.

I never do this...

I never do this... I don't really know why I did it today. Let me explain...I visit Biltmore all the time. Since the day my book, My Days with Nell, was placed on the estate, I have been a little bashful about telling folks about it. I'm not sure why, it's just I don't want to appear boastful or self-promoting. Today, however, as I was traveling on the shuttle, along with 30 or so people, I was
separated from my friend, Cindy. I was seated with a beautiful, polite, young lady named Katie... or maybe it's Katy.   Anyway, she and I just struck up a conversation about different things... Dancing, both contemporary or ballet, Greensboro, missionaries in Thailand, (such strange conversation topics for strangers to discuss) and of course my love for Biltmore just happened to spill over into the conversation. Before I realized it, I had shared that I had written a book about Biltmore for young folks. I never do this! She asked me my name and the name of my book. The next thing I knew we were being escorted off the shuttle and parted ways. About two hours later, I saw her in the house and  she introduced me to her mom.  We toured the house for a few rooms together. Katie is absolutely the cutest young lady! She told me she had just purchased, My Days with Nell,  and asked if we happened to see her later would I sign it for her. She had left the book at the carriage house for safekeeping.  Unfortunately,  We, again, were separated by the crowd of people and I didn't see her anymore. Before I left The estate, I went by the Carriage House gift shop and asked the clerk if I may see Katie's book. I explained what had happened and that I wanted to surprise her with signing it for her. I probably won't ever see Katie or her sweet mom again. I hope she was pleasantly surprised when she received her book. I hope she will enjoy reading it and  she will be inspired to leave blessings for others. I believe she may have begun her trail of blessings in that meeting such a kind, polite, young lady was a blessing to me. God bless you sweet girl!

Back Home...

Back Home...

Monday, May 1, 2017, I had the honor to speak to the third graders at West Marion Elementary School for their special event,  "Author Day".  We met in the gymnasium and I spoke briefly about my journey in writing,  "My Days with Nell" and "Treasures of My Heart."  The students have been studying McDowell County History and I shared a small reading of my Carson House book, "Treasures of My Heart"  and how Stoneman's Raiders attacked the house nine days after the Civil War had ended.  We had a short question and answer time and the students were, as always, well behaved, courteous and kind.  West Marion is my home school.  It's where I developed a deep love for children's literature. I love the people there who give their time, talent and love to a diverse population of youngsters. They are encouragers and their generosity of spirit knows no boundaries.  I miss them; a part of them goes with me to every school I visit.  They are my standard... and they always end up on top.  A special thank you to Ms. Ashley Greene, meda coordinator, for the invitation.

Sullins Academy Author Day

Yesterday, November 3, 2016, I had the honor of speaking at Sullins Academy in Bristol, Virginia, to students in grades 2-6 about "My Days with Nell." From the moment I entered this beautiful school, I was met with smiling faces and helpful folks that directed me to Mrs. Stamper's lovely media center.  After some much needed computer "hook-up" help from Mr. Roy Vermillion, principal, and the school's computer whiz, my powerpoint presentation was up and ready to go.  I hadn't actually planned to speak with the sixth graders, but,  they happened to have a scheduled media class and I had a  research based Biltmore powerpoint that seemed appropriate for them, so we did it! Those students were awesome!  Thanks for your undivided attention, and for your eagerness in helping set up the room for the classes which were to follow you.

I gave two presentations, to grades 2-3 followed by grades 4-5. The students were so attentive, polite, and respectful.  They listened intently and asked pertinent questions as we discussed the writing process in regards to "My Days with Nell." We talked about the Pre-Writing, Drafting, Revising, Editing and Publishing phases of the process and I was amazed at how these young, emergent writers understood these concepts. We briefly talked about their perception of a story's setting, characters, plot and what it means when a book is classified as historical fiction.  We discussed the idea of asking questions and using their five senses to improve and make revisions to their rough drafts.  I have no doubt they are ready to be authors now!  These smart young people can do it!

After my "Writing Process" presentation, we talked about some of the wonderful Christmas traditions at the Biltmore house. I love sharing how the workers at the Estate maintain the 121 year tradition of bringing in the "big tree" for the holidays. I love telling the students how the Vanderbilts generously cared for those that worked at the estate, as well as how kind they were to family and friends who came and stayed at the house, sometimes for extended periods.

We ended my visit with  question and answer time.  I couldn't believe what thoughtful and creative questions they asked.  I was impressed! I hope I persuaded them, informed them and entertained them yesterday.  That was after all, this author's purpose! ;)

I am grateful for the initial invitation from Mrs. Stamper and to Mr. Vermillion for  allowing me to come and share "My Days with Nell," and my passion for Biltmore. I am grateful to the many Sullins outstanding educators that shared encouraging and positive words with me. It was an extra-special time for me personally, because three of the most precious people in my life attend Sullins Academy, my three grandsons, Brady, Drew and Luke. To be able to come and speak at their school is a blessing I will never forget.  Christmas is right around the corner... But I received a great present yesterday in visiting Sullins Academy.  That Author's Day was a lovely gift to me... and I am thankful.

Merry Christmas!

Sullins Academy, November 3, 2016

I am grateful to Sullins Adademy Principal, Mr. Roy Vermillion, who invited me to  speak to the second through fifth grade students, on November 3, 2016, regarding "My Days with Nell." My sweet grandsons attend Sullins, so I am there each week, but this is the first time I will visit to share my love of the Biltmore Estate located in Asheville, NC.  I plan to share some of the research, but will concentrate on the writing process as it pertained to publication.  Also, if there's enough time,  I wouldn't want to miss the opportunity to share some historical information abouth the wonderful Christmas traditons, customs, and stories with these students. I am excited!  

Heading to My Favorite Place on Earth

Biltmore is calling my name.  I haven't been lately and although I don't need a reason to go... I'm going. There is a wonderful exhibit that opens on Friday, February 12, 2016.  It's entitled, "Fashionable Romance." Visitors will be able to view wedding gowns from TV and Movies from the past few decades.   I am most excited, however, to see the recreation of Cornelia Vanderbilt's wedding dress.  The orginal gown is unavailable... not sure why. It is rumored to be in the hands of her descendants but is not in good condition and I have also heard, unfortunately, it was destroyed. I pray it is the former and not the latter. Cornelia, the only child of George and Edith Vanderbilt, married John Cecil on April 29, 1924 at All Souls Episcopal Church in Asheville, NC.  It was a grand event with hundreds of guests descending on Biltmore Village to either attend the wedding or catch a glimpse of the bride.


The exhibit will be on display from February 12, 2016 through July 4, 2016.  If you are in the area, I invite you to visit the "Lady on the Hill." You won't regret your visit.  It's a treasure nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and for me, my visit always brings solace and peace to my soul.

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas! I hope you all have a wonderful day with family and friends celebrating the greatest gift of all time... Jesus Christ.

Happy Thanksgiving!

On this Thanksgiving day, I am so grateful for my family and friends. They stand with me and love me unconditionally.  I have been blessed beyond measure and I am thankful to God for His provisions in my life.  Not only does He meet my needs, but He is gracious with the desires of my heart.   I don't deserve His love but am overwhelmed with His generosity. Thank you, my God, for your precious son, Jesus, who redeemed me and makes me righteous before you. May I be found faithful to You and may everything I think, do and say bring glory to you... for you alone, are worthy of all praise.    

Blog Hits 10,000 views

WOW! My Days with Nell blog just hit 10,000 views! When I began this blog, I had no idea this would ever happen. It was more of a way for me to chronicle the journey of publishing my first children's book, My Days with Nell. Through this blog, I have met some wonderful people and have enjoyed discussing all types of literature. It has truly been a blessing to me. Thanks to all who took the time to read my posts and offer encouragement to me as I continue writing.

Author Day at North Cove Elementary

    Today, I had the honor of speaking to some of the students at North Cove Elementary School. At the invitation of Mrs. Penny Jackson, Media Coordinator, I spoke to the third grade students about The Biltmore Estate and "My Days with Nell."I presented the writing process to two different third grade classes and we discussed the Pre-Writing, Drafting, Revising, Editing and Publishing stages of writing.   I believe their awesome teachers have previously worked with them on this process for they seemed to be familiar with the concept and responded positively to the questions I asked and topics we discussed. These youngsters had recently visited the estate and had some interesting questions from their field trip. It was obvious they had listened intently to their Biltmore guide and had time to digest what  they had learned as they were ready to "dig a little deeper" for more information.   We also had a brief question and answer time that basically revolved around the present restoration work on the North Tower Ridge cap on the Biltmore House roof. It is a huge undertaking and will be gorgeous when it is restored to it's original color and beauty.
     I spoke to the North Cove fourth graders about the Historic Carson House.  I shared a brief presentation on the history of the John Hazzard Carson family and shared the plot and book summary of "Treasures of My Heart." They are very excited about visiting the Historic Carson House next Thursday.  I was only able to skim the surface of all the Carson House has to offer in intriguing stories. They are certainly in for a treat on this field trip.
     I am so proud of the North Cove Elementary teachers for planning field trips to these two historical Western North Carolina places. They are opening up a new world to these students and encouraging and introducing history in an exciting way.  Talking about these houses is informative but to see them in person takes learning to a whole new level. Field trips are not an easy day for educators... I know, I have been on many!  But it enriches the learning experience for the students in a way that a simple lecture on the subject can not possibly accomplish. So, "Yay, Teachers!"
      I loved visiting with these third and fourth graders. Both grade levels were well behaved and asked wonderful, pertinent and thought provoking questions. I appreciate the opportunity to visit North Cove Elementary and am appreciative to Mrs. Jackson for the invitation.  I am always welcomed into their school as a friend and made to feel right at home! They also fed me a delicious lunch!  Good things are happening at North Cove! So proud of  all of our McDowell County Schools!

McDowell Visitors Center

I met so many nice people last week when I spoke at the McDowell County Rotary meeting. One of them was Mr. Steve Bush, executive director of  McDowell County Chamber of Commerce. He invited me to place "My Days with Nell" and "Treasures of my Heart" at the McDowell County Visitor Center. I am pleased to say that I took books by there today and was very impressed with the professional and welcoming atmosphere of the center. There were several folk milling about shopping and asking questions. Mr. Bush informed me that the center entertains about 15,000 to 20,000 visitors a year! Wow! I had no idea so many people stopped by our little town of Marion! Isn't that great?

What a great week!

This has been a wonderful week!  On Monday, April 20, 2015, I had the pleasure of speaking at McDowell County Public Library with ladies from the United Daughters of the Confederacy. These women were a delight! I was welcomed into their midst and was impressed with the UDC's efforts in benevolence, historical accuracy, and preservation of records.  This group of "Daughters" are very involved in the community and with upcoming events celebrating our heritage.  I presented a PowerPoint on McDowell County's Historic Carson House and the descendants of John Hazzard Carson. "Treasures of My Heart" was well received and I am grateful for the opportunity to visit with these dedicated and proud women of McDowell County's UDC chapter.
    Today, I had the privilege of speaking at the Community Building with  McDowell County's Rotary Club. This group of professional men and women were so warm, engaging, and hospitable. I saw a few people I had not seen in years...it was so nice to reconnect with them.  I was treated to a delicious meal catered by Countryside Barbecue and enjoyed the presentation of McDowell High School's "Student of the Week" to a fine young woman whose ambition is to have a career as a nurse anesthetist . Good luck to her... I wish her the best.
     Following a brief business update, I  presented a 20 minute PowerPoint based on the historical research I did while writing, "My Days with Nell." I hope I was able to share some new information and enlighten the members on some of the Vanderbilt and Cecil family history.  I enjoyed my time with some of McDowell County's finest business entrepreneurs and hope I persuaded some of them to visit America's largest privately owned home... soon!
     I have been invited to speak at two upcoming book club meetings and will be at North Cove Elementary School the first week of May sharing "My Days with Nell" with their fourth graders and "Treasures of My Heart" with the  third grade students. I can't wait!

McDowell News Article of Treasures of My Heart

Tuesday, March 24, 2015

From Staff Reports

A new children’s book about McDowell County’s most important historic site is now available for young and old to read.

The Historic Carson House recently announced the publication of “Treasures of My Heart,” a children’s book based on the family and descendants of Col. John Hazzard Carson, who originally built the home more than 200 years ago.

The book is written by Victoria S. Blake. The first book she wrote is called "My Days With Nell,” which is about the Biltmore House.

“Having lived in McDowell County for most of her life, western North Carolina writer Victoria S. Blake heard fascinating tales about Col. Carson and his family,” reads a news release from Historic Carson House. “In writing ‘Treasures of My Heart,’ she shares a touching story about Mary Carson, wife of Jonathan Logan Carson, son of the Colonel, who must make a heartbreaking decision.”

“Due to Mrs. Carson’s advanced age and failing health, she can no longer live alone in her beloved home. As her furniture is being moved and her mementos boxed up, she makes her final walk through the home with her daughter, Margaret, and her granddaughter, Moffitt by her side. Amid vivid accounts of Stoneman's Raiders during the Civil War, a brother-in-law's duel, or tales of the Underground Railroad, Mary teaches her granddaughter powerful life lessons.”

Blake and illustrator Carly Kauffman will be available to sign copies of “Treasures of My Heart” on Saturday, April 18 and Sunday, April 19 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Historic Carson House. This will be during the weekend of the Emma Rankin Story, an event in commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the raid on the estate by Gen. George Stoneman’s forces during the final days of the Civil War.

“Treasures of My Heart” is currently available atAmazon.com, the Historic Carson House and through Victoria Blake’s blog atwww.victoriasblake.blogspot.com. It can also be found at the MACA gift store, according to Kauffman.

For more information about this event at the Historic Carson House, please call 724-4948 or visit the Historic Carson House's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/HistoricCarsonHouseMuseum.

I am so excited!

Here it is....

I am so excited! Treasures of My Heart is coming!

    Well... It's almost ready! I am so excited to announce, "Treasures of My Heart" is almost ready to send to the printer.  Carly Kauffman, illustrator, and I will meet for, hopefully, our final work session this weekend.  I am so pleased with her work and tireless efforts and encouragement.   I know God placed her in my life to partner with me in this endeavor.     
     If nothing crops up unexpectedly, we should be ready to send "Treasures of My Heart" to the printer by the end of next week.  I should receive the proof copies within two weeks and be ready to order by the end of February.  This book will be a 8.5"x 11" soft cover book with a full color cover and at least eight beautiful black and white pencil drawings in the interior. 
    Launching a new book is a daunting task.  I covet your prayers as I take on this new adventure. 

Author Day at Ellenboro Elementary School

 What a blessing!  This morning I had the privilege of visiting Ellenboro Elementary School.  From the moment I entered this beautiful school, I was met with smiling faces and helpful folks that directed me to Mrs. Sarah Tisdale's second grade classroom.  Upon my arrival, her precious second graders warmly welcomed me.  Mrs. Tisdale graciously assisted me in setting up my powerpoint presentation on her MAC computer,  (Gotta love Apple products!) and we were ready to begin.

The students were so attentive and respectful.  They listened intently and asked pertinent questions as we discussed the writing process in regards to my "My Days with Nell." We talked about the Pre-Writing, Drafting, Revising, Editing and Publishing phases of the process and I was amazed at how these young, emergent writers understood these concepts. We briefly talked about their perception of a story's  setting, characters, plot and what it means when a book is classified as historical fiction.  We discussed the idea of asking questions and using their five senses to improve and make revisions to their rough drafts.  I have no doubt they are ready to be authors now!  These smart young people can do it!

After my "Writing Process" presentation, we talked about some of the wonderful Christmas traditions at the Biltmore house. I love sharing how the workers at the Estate maintain the 119 year tradition of bringing in the "big tree" for the holidays. I love telling the students how the Vanderbilts generously cared for those that worked at the estate, as well as how kind they were to family and friends who came and stayed at the house, sometimes for extended periods.

We ended my visit with  question and answer time.  I couldn't believe what thoughtful and creative questions they asked.  I was impressed! I hope I persuaded them, informed them and entertained them this morning.  That was after all, this author's purpose! ;)

I am grateful to Mrs. Tisdale for allowing me to come and share "My Days with Nell" with her students.    She is an extraordinary teacher and wonderful person. It was obvious from the moment I stepped into her classroom that her students are valued, respected and are being educated in a caring environment. How fortunate for those second graders to have her as their teacher.  I also enjoyed visiting with Mrs. Tisdale's mother, Mrs. Robyn Elliott.  She is a retired educator and I have known her for years.   There is an old saying; the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. Well, like mother, like daughter.  There is a rich tradition of educating excellence in this family!

Christmas is right around the corner... But I received a great present this morning! Visiting Mrs. Tisdale's class was a lovely gift to me... and I am thankful.

Merry Christmas!

Going back to my "Home" school...

Thanks to a sweet invitation from Ms. Deeana Ray, third grade educator, I'm going back to visit my "Home" school. Hopefully during the first few days of December 2014, I will be visiting the third graders at West Marion Elementary School. I worked there for over 20 years as Office Coordinator and have so many friends that I look forward to seeing again.

Mrs. Ray's students will be visiting the Biltmore Estate on December 11, 2014 for a field trip.  The house will be beautifully decorated for Christmas for their adventure.  Wonder how many Christmas trees will be decorated at the estate  this year?  Last year, there were 56 in the four acre house alone!  I know the wonderful staff at the "House" will make them feel welcomed with warm hospitality.

I love to speak to students at the elementary level about the traditions and research I did while writing, "My Days with Nell."  Mrs. Ray invited me to go with her class to my favorite place in this world and I will have to check my calendar... but am honored at her invitation. But either way, Biltmore... they're coming!!!!

Heading back to Glenwood!

I am grateful to Mrs. Katie Carter,  McDowell County educator, who has invited me to come speak to the  third graders at Glenwood Elementary School on December 1, 2014.  This is my second visit to this wonderful place.  In January, 2014, I spent the day with students in grades 2-6 for an Author Day.  I shared the writing process with those students and how it related to writing, "My Days with Nell."

After speaking with Mrs. Carter, I have decided for this visit I will share information based on the research I did while writing the book.  Glenwood Elementary's  third graders will be visiting the Vanderbilt Home during the first week of December and hopefully my visit will get them excited about their trip... as if that were needed. :0)  The "House" will be decorated for Christmas  and I'm sure as in previous years, will be gorgeous.

I am excited about this opportunity and look forward to sharing historical information and wonderful Vanderbilt Christmas traditions with these students.   CAN'T WAIT!

Treasures of my Heart

Well... It looks like "Treasures of my Heart" will become a reality!    Treasures of My Heart is an emotional and touching story based on the Historic Carson House built in 1793 by Colonel John Carson.  Mary Carson, wife of Jonathan Logan Carson, son of the Colonel, must make a heartbreaking decision. Due to her advanced age and failing health, she can no longer live alone in her beloved home. As her furniture is being moved and her mementos boxed up, she makes her final walk through the home with her daughter, Margaret and her granddaughter, Moffet by her side. Amid vivid accounts of Stoneman's Raiders during the civil war, a brother-in-law's duel, or tales of the underground railroad, Mary teaches her granddaughter powerful life lessons. The struggle of change haunts Mary, but she is resolved in what she must do. The stories set in the latter part of the 1800's will spark the imagination of children and enlighten them on bygone days of plantation life. It will encourage them to cherish their family memories . . .  for it's their memories that will become the treasures of their heart.  
    I am very excited about this new book and look forward to our release. I  met with the illustrator, Ms. Carly Kauffman, and have seen several of her drawings.  They are wonderful and have perfectly captured what I see in my head when I am writing.  I have been blessed beyond measure to work with wonderful illustrators. Ms. Virginia Palmer, local Marion portrait artist, is an awesome artist that did the lovely pictures for "My Days with Nell". And now the talents of Ms. Kauffman are bringing the Carson House families to life!!! We are tentatively planning a September release date for "Treasures of my Heart". Let's just hope we can get it all together by then.... Keeping my fingers crossed!