"Almost overnight the world turned from a dusty, worn-out green into brilliant red, orange, and golden splendor. I drive under canopies of jewels... rubies, garnets, and topaz. The burning bushes are ablaze with vermillion, while falling leaves caress the ground like priceless Oriental carpets. Even the very air vibrates with the sheer beauty of it all " Thus begins the first meditation in "Morning Splendor," a collection of seventy-five intriguing ways to enhance one's morning devotions. In a wide range of topics, Marcia reflects on Biblical connections to everyday situations in our lives such as de-stressing, de-cluttering, and finding joy and peace in the chaos of living. As a retired English teacher, she brings themes from great literature and examines them in the light of the Scriptures. She also uses news events and humorous anecdotes to look at the eternal truths of God in refreshing ways. Among the entries are ones entitled: "For a Limited Time Only," "Praise Him and He'll Come," "Communication Addictions," "Butterfly Blessings," "If Your Brother Offends You," "Peter the Blunderer," "Wrenching Estate Wars," "On the Emmaus Road," and "Friends and Cheerleaders." Each morning, in whatever season of your life, you'll find appealing inspiration and spiritual energy for your day in "Morning Reflections." Readers acquainted with Schwartz's previous two books of devotions, "Apples for the Soul," and "In Jars of Clay," (Outskirts Press) will be thrilled with this additional well-crafted book. Many people report that these meditations are favorites when they present topics at their church or club meetings, and the books make great gifts Marcia Schwartz lives in Falls City, Nebraska, with her husband Hank, and they often journey to Lincoln to visit their grown sons, Lance and Reed, daughter-in-law Debbie, and granddaughter, Lucy.