Rachael: Porch Swings and Spearmint Tea is a history of one southern family as they met the challenges thrown at them by the political, economical, and personal forces that held sway over their lives at the time. These forces are not independent; they are woven into a fabric and must be dealt with independently, yet simultaneously. Beginning with the War Between the States and continuing through the Great Depression, much of their deep thought and deliberations of how best to handle their situations revolved around a porch swing and a glass of spearmint tea. This is a collection of tales passed down through five generations. These family stories honestly depict triumph and tragedy as it happened. It tells of the strong family love necessary to hold a family together through trials and heartbreak. It shows the joy and laughter of sharing each other's small achievements and great accomplishments. Woven mostly around three generations of strong women, the author skillfully takes us inside personal reactions to all the events around them, so that we experience emotions of fear and panic, stoic resolution and determination, deep pain and sorrow, joy and laughter. But most of all we experience the strength and security of family. Minerva depicts stoic diplomacy. Ella Anne represents fire and determination. Rachael embodies love and dedication. Each pursue the same end: whatever it takes for my family This is a family history. The events are true and are strung together with thoughts, emotions and conversations.