💛🎬 New Beginnings & Adventure Awaits: Hallmark’s *Winter Escape* and "When Calls the Heart"

Happy Winter Weekend, Everyone!

I know it's a really cold one for many of us across the U.S. Please stay safe and bundled-up out there.

If you're looking to warm things up a little, Hallmark Channel’s Love on the Amazon, starring Jaicy Elliott, takes us viewers into the hot, humid Amazon rainforest for a romantic adventure.

And in an all-new episode of When Calls the Heart, the town of Hope Valley opens its arms to the fire victims of Benson Hills. While Nathan and Bill work to uncover what caused the wildfire, tensions may rise as Lee points the finger at A.J. McGinty.

I also share a scripture and thoughts at the end of this post - inspired by this upcoming When Calls the Heart episode.

See details below...


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Saturday, January 17, 2026:

Love on the Amazon

Storyline: Gabby travels to the Amazon to reach her sister, a researcher, and meets a rugged riverboat Captain named Ryder.

Love on the Amazon

Premieres Saturday, January 17, 2026

at 8pm/7c. on the Hallmark Channel

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Sunday, January 18, 2026:

When Calls the Heart

Season 13, Episode 3 - Back to School

Storyline: Elizabeth welcomes new students, as Nathan and Bill investigate a wildfire.

When Calls the Heart

Season 13, Episode 3

Premieres Sunday, January 18, 2026

at 8pm/7c on the Hallmark Channel

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Friday, January 16th through Sunday, January 18th:

Aurora and Ainsley

*Classic Mysteries*

Sleuth this weekend with Candace Cameron Bure... both Aurora Teagarden and Ainsley McGregor are on the case!

The Aurora Teagarden movie marathon, which has been running throughout the week on Hallmark Mystery, continues throughout the weekend! Plus, catch encore airings of the newest Ainsley McGregor - the one viewers are raving about! See reviews below!

Friday:

Aurora Teagarden: A Bundle of Trouble ... Hallmark Mystery ... 2pm
Aurora Teagarden: Last Scene Alive ... Hallmark Mystery ... 4pm
Aurora Teagarden: Reap What You Sew ... Hallmark Mystery ... 6pm
Aurora Teagarden: The Disappearing Game ... Hallmark Mystery ... 8pm

Saturday:

Aurora Teagarden: A Game of Cat and Mouse ... Hallmark Mystery ... 10am
Aurora Teagarden: An Inheritance to Die For ... Hallmark Mystery ... 12pm
Aurora Teagarden: A Very Foul Play ... Hallmark Mystery ... 2pm
Aurora Teagarden: Heist and Seek ... Hallmark Mystery ... 4pm
Ainsley McGregor Mysteries: A Case For the Watchmaker ... Great American Family ... 6pm
Aurora Teagarden: Reunited and It Feels So Good ... Hallmark Mystery ... 6pm
Aurora Teagarden: How To Con a Con ... Hallmark Mystery ... 8pm
Ainsley McGregor Mysteries: A Case For the Watchmaker ... Great American Family ... 1am

Sunday:

Aurora Teagarden: Til Death Do Us Part ... Hallmark Mystery ... 10am
Aurora Teagarden: Honeymoon, Honeymurder ... Hallmark Mystery ... 12pm
Aurora Teagarden: Haunted by Murder ... Hallmark Mystery ... 2pm
Ainsley McGregor Mysteries: A Case For the Watchmaker ... Great American Family ... 10pm


Movie Reviews - Ainsley McGregor Mysteries: A Case For the Watchmaker:


🎬 Watching Ainsley now and enjoying every moment. Looking at the new schedule, looks like a great season ~Anonymous

🎬 A Case for the Watchmaker is sooo good! -Maria

🎬 The new Ainsley is fantastic! One thing I thought was great about it, was that it was a cold case, so this small town doesn’t really have that many current murders to solve.

The book club was very involved, which I liked. It’s cute they still can’t come up with a new name to call themselves. I think they should just stick with book club.

Candace looked so pretty, as usual. I liked seeing her longer hair again. Christie

🎬 Ainsley McGregor Mysteries: Case for a Watchmaker review

I wasn’t a big fan of the first two, but this one was a big improvement!! I liked that she had more scenes with her corner friend. But really appreciated how honest and faithful Jake was when his ex showed up. And her told Ainsley the truth right way that the mayor texted him. Ainsley never had to doubt him. I would have liked to see more possible suspects, but the mystery was enjoyable.~Abigail

🎬 Also watched A Case For The Watch Maker! Awesome! Best one yet – Joyce in Carolina

🎬 "Ainsley Mcgregor" - I have to agree with everyone here. This installment was definitely the best one of the series so far. We figured out who did it early on, but it was still an enjoyable ride, nonetheless. :-) The main characters all seem very comfortable in their roles now. I liked the supporting characters this time around too. I hope the series continues. ~Joan

🎬 This, in my opinion, is the best "Ainsley" mystery, so far! You could sense a deeper connection with all of the characters, and not only was the mystery intriguing, but the pace of the story was engaging, with clever dialogue. My guess of who-dun-it was right, but that also made it a fun watch.

I especially liked how the book club was more actively involved in solving a cold case, adding both heart and humor to the investigation. A new character is introduced who is wonderfully quirky and instantly memorable. He is so funny... I sure hope we see him again in future episodes!

Also, I liked that Jake was still his usual self, silly and friendly, but he also seemed more mature, confident, and capable. When Ainsley's life is in jeopardy, Jake stays the night at her home on the couch with Ainsley's adorable dog, George. I enjoyed seeing more of his strong, protective side.

This movie was sooo good; it reminded me of how much I always enjoyed the "Aurora Teagarden" mysteries. It has that same cozy mystery feel. I sure hope Great American Family plans to continue this mystery series- since I had such a wonderful *time* watching "A Case for the Watchmaker"! ~Net



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Have a wonderful weekend, everyone!

Since it’s a bitterly cold weekend here in the Midwest, I’m planning to cozy up with some Christmas movies I haven’t watched yet. And, of course, the new episode of When Calls the Heart on Sunday is a must-see for my family! Sundays are always a nice, busy mix of worship, fellowship, and rest.

Please Note: I haven't pre-screened the new Winter Escape movie premiering this weekend. If you'd like to post a review on whether this movie is family-friendly, please share in the comments below. Thank you in advance to everyone who shares with us.

Blessings to You All!

Net

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❤️ SHARING HIS LOVE: ❤️
“Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.”

– Luke 6:38

This weekend’s scripture is inspired by the love and compassion we’ll see Hope Valley extend to the people of Benson Hills after the wildfire that destroyed their homes and belongings. It’s such a beautiful reminder to use whatever God has given us to bless others. Giving doesn’t always mean money; it can also be a warm meal, a helping hand, or simply showing up and spending time with someone who needs it.

My prayer is that this episode will be a true blessing to anyone who has walked through a hard season. May it gently encourage us all to reach out, give back, and offer help or friendship wherever it’s needed.

My "When Calls the Heart" Birthday Celebration - before the Finale!

As Season 5 of “When Calls the Heart” comes to an end, with all of its emotions, drama, and suspense… I thought this would be a good time to share my very HAPPY “When Calls the Heart” birthday celebration – from earlier this month!

It is my birthday wish that you enjoy this special look at my celebration and it fills you with “hope” …

From my cake and decorations… to my very “Elizabeth” looking dress…

Let’s begin with my “When Calls the Heart” birthday cake…

My Momma, Sister, and I had such fun making it together! (A.K.A. Abigail, Rosemary, and Elizabeth!)

The cake featured two layers, with gold frames picturing cast members, and small items that represent each character, by occupation, interests, and lifestyle. For instance, near Bill Avery you will find a guitar, type writer, and magnify glass… near Rosemary you will find a tea set, and next to Elizabeth, books, Jack, a red lantern, Abigail, an apron and mixing bowls, Opal, a bear named Brownie (of course!), Lee, a stack of wood and saw, Dr. Carson and Nurse Faith, a stethoscope and nurse’s hat, Clara, a sewing basket, and the children, a baseball bat & glove and a doll.

My sister, who is very much like Rosemary, found all of these amazing pieces; my absolute favorites are the beautiful white dress form and the Ford Model “T”! (I can just hear Rosemary (Pascale Hutton) in my mind saying… “Oh, Lee… You bought a car!”)






On the very top of the cake is the Hope Valley Church with a wagon and horses, and a grapevine heart to symbolize all the love in their little town. The second layer is covered with a quilt made of edible fondant and wafer paper, which was kind of interesting to piece together, at first, but in the end, I was amazed at how it came out so beautifully!




For the party, the cake was left intact and cupcakes (see below) were served… my Great-Grandmother’s Million Dollar Pound Cake… it’s a white cake, and most delicious! The recipe has been handed down -generation after generation! Come to think about it… this particular cake was most likely baked around the era represented in “When Calls the Heart,” by my Great-Grandmother, or perhaps, even her Mother! That very idea – makes it all the more special!

In each of the cupcakes, as you can see below, are cupcake-picks I simply printed out of various characters from “When Calls the Heart,” in heart-shaped cupcake wrappers - which you can get at Michaels craft store!

I just loved these little party tea cups - made of paper! They would be perfect for a little girl's tea party, too!





Here’s a bit closer look of the cake and the characters featured from “When Calls the Heart…”

All the ladies who attended the party wore beautiful white dresses, and the men, white dress shirts and casual pants. Two of the children surprised me by specially dressing up… one in a prairie girl costume, just like Opal, and the boy, a Mountie, just like Jack… with the red jacket, Canadian Mountie hat, and everything! It was so sweet! I loved and cherished every minute!

The moment I saw the dress I wore for the party, I simply fell in love with it! Thankfully, I was able to shop around a bit, and I found it at an incredibly reduced price! It was perfect... I felt just like I borrowed my dress from “Elizabeth’s” closet for the day and stepped right into Hope Valley!

These exquisite party plates (yes, they are paper!) and napkins were the perfect elegant touch for a “When Calls the Heart” celebration!

One of my birthday gifts was a sweet teddy bear, in honor of sweet Opal’s bear, Brownie! Isn’t he just adorable?

I also received the “When Calls the Heart” devotional and journal, a “When Calls the Heart” Christmas DVD my collection was lacking, the latest “Signed, Sealed, Delivered” DVD release “Truth be Told,” a canning jar by Pioneer Woman, a Royal Fine Bone Old Country Rose Heart Music Box, a China Tea Cup, with Lid, Magnetic Dart Board game, Little Blue House by Hatley Teacup PJ’s, and a Hearties “When Calls the Heart” t-shirt & tank from Zazzle.

#Hearties - When Calls the Heart White and Red Tee

by Hallmark_Channel

This sweet country church painting titled "Sunday Go To Meeting" (with actual lights that light up by timer every day - in each church window!) reminded me of the Hope Valley church, and not only was it beautiful décor for the party, but a truly lovely piece of artwork and conversation piece.

This church window below, made of wood and corrugated galvanized metal, from Hobby Lobby, is a wonderful magnetic board. I had such fun choosing which “When Calls the Heart” pictures to clip to the display!

A scripture of “hope” for Hope Valley and all of us each day…

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace
as you trust in Him,
so that you may overflow with hope
by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
~ Romans 15:13

My Momma and Daddy's old-fashioned distressed black frame, with gold hearts in each corner, was an ideal display for this cast picture of “When Calls the Heart.”

And, an overall look of the entire "When Calls the Heart" party table… with a chalkboard - where my sweet sister, who is a fantastic artist, wrote "Happy Birthday" so beautifully in chalk.

"From chalk dust to eternity"
~Elizabeth Thatcher

Thank you all who visit here and give me the gift of your presence! I am blessed by your friendship, your warm-hearted comments, and all of our discussions on family movies and shows, like “When Calls the Heart.” I would have loved to have shared this birthday with all of you! So, I hope you have enjoyed this little taste of the celebration!

Blessings to you all, Net

Watch the "When Calls the Heart"

Season 5 Finale

Episode 10: "Close to my Heart"

Sunday, April 22, 2018

9pm/8c. on the Hallmark Channel

Click Here to Watch "When Calls the Heart" Season 5 -
by Episode or Season Pass.

Can You Guess My Hallmark Themed Birthday + Happy Birthday, Dear Doris Day!!!

In our family, we love Birthdays! And, for each and every one of ours, from the eldest to the youngest, we choose a theme to celebrate the day!

image: itsawonderfulmovie.com

This year I have chosen a theme that is Hallmark related. See if you can figure it out with these 7 fun clues...

1. It's a drama... filled with emotion and "heart"!

2. There is romance, of course, like most Hallmark movies!

3. Each character is filled with "hope" for a bright future.

4. Many important lessons are taught and learned, along the way.

5. There's a great deal of sacrifice, in giving of one's self.

6. There's an immense love of family, friends, and neighbors.

7. And, most assuredly, these characters have a deep faith that carries them through any season of life...

My theme is...

You guessed it! (right?)

...

...

...

...

...

...

"When Calls the Heart"

image: "When Calls the Heart" - via Crown Media

I thought it would be most fun to incorporate "When Calls the Heart" into my birthday, today... from the cake, to well, every detail... just like Rosemary would do it! And, I am blessed to have both a Rosemary & Abigail "type" in my life, so planning the event is so much fun with them! I am definitely more of an Elizabeth type-person... so we work very well together! "Rosemary" makes big plans, "Abigail" cocks her head to the side and grins, and I, "Elizabeth" barely nod my head in agreement... as "Rosemary" goes on with the next grand idea!

image: "When Calls the Heart" - via Crown Media

It's all in good fun! Over the years I've learned, the greatest gift and blessing is that I'll be spending my birthday (today!) surrounded by all my wonderful family! Their love is the only gift I really need; however.... it's awfully fun to unwrap a few tangible things, as well! Isn't it? (Now, I kinda sound like dear Rosemary!)

In coming days... I promise to try and sneak you a bite (or rather picture) of the cake!

My heart calls me away, but thank you to all of you, who stop by to visit and read this post today!

image: "When Calls the Heart" - via Crown Media

Who else's birthday is today... well, it's dear Doris Day!!!
Oh... "It's a Great Feeling..." to share our day!!!

Actress Doris Day

Doris portrayed many marvelous and mischievous characters... and today, TCM is celebrating her birthday with their own movie-marathon dedicated solely to the actress, with her films:


It's a Great Feeling ... 8:15 AM

Storyline: When nobody at Warner Bros. will work with him, movie star Jack Carson decides to turn an unknown into his co-star.


Glass Bottom Boat ... 9:45 AM

Storyline: A woman writing a scientist's biography is mistaken for a spy.


Calamity Jane ... 11:45 AM

Storyline: The Wild West heroine helps bring a star attraction to Deadwood and finds love.


Love Me or Leave Me ... 1:45 PM

Storyline: True story of torch singer Ruth Etting's struggle to escape the gangster who made her a star.


Pillow Talk ... 4:00 PM

A man and woman carry their feud over the telephone line they share into their real lives.


Please Don't Eat the Daisies ... 6:00 PM

Storyline: A drama critic and his family try to adjust to life in the country.

Doris Day - graphic design by Cynthia

Happy Birthday, Doris Day!!!

It's a Great Feeling!!!

May God's Richest Blessings
Abide on You!!!

image courtesy: freepik .com

Plus, a very Happy Birthday to these Hallmark movie actors & actresses celebrating birthdays this month of April...

Bethany Joy Lenz ("Royal Matchmaker," "The Christmas Secret") - April 2
Jennie Garth ("A Time to Dance," "Accidentally in Love") - April 3
Candace Cameron Bure ("Aurora Teagarden Mystery," "Switched for Christmas") - April 6
Marilu Henner ("Aurora Teagarden Mystery") - April 6
John Schneider ("Sandra Brown's White Hot," "Come Dance at my Wedding") - April 8
Mandy Moore ("Christmas in Conway") - April 10
Chyler Leigh ("Window Wonderland") - April 10
Ryan Merriman ("Elevator Girl") - April 10
Laura Bell Bundy ("Dear Dumb Diary") - April 10
Riley Smith ("Christmas in Conway") - April 12
Ricky Schroder ("Our Wild Hearts") - April 13
Abigail Breslin ("Family Plan," "The Ultimate Gift") - April 14
Adam Dimarco ("Kiss at Pine Lake," "Signed,Sealed,Delivered") - April 14
Melissa Joan Hart ("Broadcasting Christmas") - April 18
Joey Lawrence ("Hitched for the Holidays") - April 20
Jaime King ("Mistletoe Promise") - April 23
Daniel Sharman ("When Calls the Heart" movie) - April 25
Carol Burnett ("Signed, Sealed, Delivered") - April 26
Brooklyn Rae Silzer ("Christmas in Homestead") - April 27
Drew Seeley ("Freshman Father") - April 30


And, I'm sure there are many more!

Whenever your Birthday is... I hope it's a Happy one!

Have a Blessed Day, Everyone!!! Net