The table has been set with care. A pitcher of ice tea sparkles in the sunlight. Home made scones are still warm, and fresh fruit has been artfully arranged on a crystal platter. A copy of The Message lies open on a bench next to a vase filled with wildflowers and weeds. And Michele Howe, your gracious hostess, is here, ready to share memories, dreams, fears, daily challenges --- woman to woman, your friend and confidant.

You might not have had a day off from work, volunteer obligations, family life for weeks, perhaps months, but she has made space for you and done everything to make you comfortable. In each chapter in FAITH, FRIENDS, AND OTHER FLOTATION DEVICES, Michele focuses on a single theme --- forgiveness, providence, regret, contentment and more; introduces you to a woman whose daily experience sheds new light on active, faithful living; and gives you a concise set of guidelines to examine and live your faith.