How I Found the 1883 Book That Inspired the Name of This Blog

My husband and I wandered through downtown Shawnee, Oklahoma, curiously perusing the Main Street shops that were open here and there among derelict buildings. Rich with history, the area was now fairly quiet on this weekday afternoon. Studying the architecture that betokened a booming era, I considered how grand it must have been in its heyday.

This particular shop would not have drawn my attention, as the window displays gave no hint that we’d find within shelves and shelves of intriguing used books. I’m glad Jonathan insisted we explore it.

The moment my eyes rested on the golden brown cover of The Complete Home, I was smitten. Published in 1883, beautifully gilded, and full of the homemaking wisdom of yesteryear, I felt deeply that it was meant to be MY book.

The price listed, however, was higher than I’d personally ever paid for a book. In my mind, it was out of the question. I wistfully placed The Complete Home back on its shelf and regretfully turned away.

Imagine my utter delight (and slight disbelief) when Jonathan reached over and plucked it from the shelf, holding it firmly in his arm, obviously decided that this book would be coming home with us! It was as romantic as if he’d presented me with diamonds!

O fortunate, O happy day,

When a new household takes its birth,

And rolls on its harmonious way

Among the myriad homes of earth.

-Longfellow

A print-on-demand copy of this book in hardcover or softcover is available to purchase through Amazon, if you wish to access the text for yourself. If you use this link, I’ll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

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