I had an usual Christmas in Canada. I grew up in Texas, and I’ve never experienced a blizzard in Houston. We have hurricanes, but the blizzard I went through in Canada was terrifying and unforgettable. The white-out was the most amazing phenomenal thing I’ve ever seen. I was in Canmore, Alberta (close to Banff National Park), and had just finished filming a segment for an upcoming travel video. I sat on the patio and watched a white cloud descend on the chalet. As the storm arrived, I went inside. I literally couldn’t see through the windows or doors. It was as though someone had draped a heavy, white blanket over the openings. The chalet owners had gathered firewood earlier and guests were urged to bring it inside the chalet. Wow! Am I glad I did! The electricity went off, and the only heat and light was from the fireplace.

When I wrote the book, Sarah and the Cowboy’s Lady, I included a blizzard. Emily, the heroine, lives in Dallas, but due to her job loss, must go to Austin. She takes the back roads to avoid Christmas traffic. Her ancient car breaks down, and she meets Sarah, the angel who is disguised as an older lady. Sarah knows an inexplicable blizzard is headed to north Texas, and she must help Emily. A lot of what I describe in the book are from my memories in Canada. I wish I’d had Sarah to help me, even if she is chaotic!