Paula has been cursed since birth--or so her mother told her for as long as she could remember. Her life is plagued by bad omens and disaster waits at every turn. Still, nothing could prepare her for the loss of three of her children, and then her husband. A recent immigrant to America, now a single mother of two, and dealing with severe anxiety, Paula faces a long winter of trials and heartache. When Paula's younger daughter becomes seriously ill, Paula sets out on foot through the deep snow to get help. Along the way, she encounters another recent immigrant from Germany--a man who quickly becomes a great help and comfort.