Got word that former Franklin-area resident Patricia “Patsie” Gray Diamond has released her third book, “Aunt Cecil’s Mysterious Past.”

This is the first book in a series entitled “The Grand Adventures of Eccentric Aunt Cecil.” Although the title character is named after the author’s great aunt, she is entirely fictional. The synopsis of the book provided by Patsie follows:

Meet eccentric Aunt Cecil; she’s not just an ordinary relative, but an extraordinary one. Uniquely charming, she brings with her a hint of mystery, a touch of romance and a lot of fun. An old maid she may be, but Aunt Cecil is also one adventurous lady.

Come along as she travels with her niece, Megan, to Scotland, where a romantic mystery is unraveled, one that she may not be willing to share.

The book can be purchased on E-Books through Kindle and Nook. You may also get a copy through PublishAmerica and Amazon.com.

Patsie resides in the New River Valley of Southwest Virginia. Her website is www.diamondwriter.com.

• I went to the 40th annual Chrismon Service at Boykins United Methodist Church on Sunday. The Chrismon tree with its 7,000 lights and 350 to 400 handmade ornaments was quite impressive.

Church member Kitty Lassister narrated the service, and the choir, directed by Jean Drewry, included Michael Baugham, Linda Beatty, Ronnie Cobb, Linda Drake, Barbara Edwards, Paul Edwards, Inga Francis, Mary Futrell, Marcia Garriss, Kelly Jarratt, Ed Johnson, Gayle Johnson, Sara Johnson, Jane Joyner, Sandy Kirkland, Tommy Knight, Barbara McDowell, Milton Overby, Erma Scott, John Stewart and Susan Vick.

Just as impressive was the spread afterward served by volunteers Inga and Rick Francis, Milton Overby, Paul Edwards and Ronnie Cobb. Meatballs, little smokies, dips and spreads, cookies and so much more were served. Everything was elegantly decorated with tablecloths, candles and Overby’s chicken collection. It was a wonderful evening.

• Raymond Cross of Suffolk had his dog, Dallas, in the Carrsville Christmas Parade on Saturday.

A certified therapy dog, Dallas is trained to visit hospitals and nursing homes and participates in children’s reading programs. He loves to play football with children in his neighborhood and hide-and-seek. Dallas also likes to hold a flashlight in his mouth to help children find their way in the dark.

GWEN ALBERS is managing editor of The Tidewater News. Her email address is gwen.albers@tidewaternews.com.