title: When the Lilacs Bloom
author: Kirby, Susan
description: New Beginnings
  It is the dawn of the twentieth century and Libby begins a new chapter in her life. She and Ike are happily married, settled in the countryside, and eagerly looking forward to starting a family. Yet, despite all her dreams and prayers, Libby has not become pregnant---a fact that becomes more painful each time a baby is born to a friend or relative. Her faith and patience are tested further when Ike loses his tenant-farming job to a man whose wife is expecting their first child. To make a salary they can live on, Ike goes to work for the railroad, a job that keeps him away from home for long periods.
  
  Cherished Dreams
  Determined to make good use of her time while Ike is away, Libby begins to write stories for children, hoping that she'll be published. The Field family, who live nearby, are happy to send their many offspring to visit Libby -- and she finds the spirited young ones a great inspiration for her children's stories. But even as she gains new insights and deepening faith, Ike's return is always a glorious renewal of the vows of love that unite them, and a cherished reminder that together they can meet the challenge of all that life offers.