Fiction -> Non-fiction for Kids

Rhyming text in "Max's Dragon" by Kate Banks, "Camping Day" by Patricia Lakin, and "The Visit" by Reeve Lindbergh starts with clever word usage but ends up with subtle literary lessons to be learned. For example, in "Max's Dragon" the main character is using his imagination to rhyme. The clouds in the sky become dragons and dinosaurs as they turn into storm clouds.

"Camping Day" rhymes by activities from the four campers, and even sometimes their names! But I love how the pages are divided visually by these characters and gives a feel of separation from one activity

to another.

"The Visit" introduces some new vocabulary through its rhyme for instance, "Hay barn and carriage barn, horse stable, stall. Beth climbs up high and looks out over all."

"Sleepy Book" by Charlotte Zolotow and "Hello, Bumblebee Bat" by Darrin Lunde are two non-fiction works that don't read like it. Zolotow uses lyrical descriptions for each animal's sleeping habits, where Lunde asks and answers questions with the bumblebee bat.

Then, two non-fiction reads that engaged three children 9, 7 & 5 were "Mustang Canyon" by Jonathan London and "How big is it?" by Ben Hillman. Reading about a colt's adventure in the wild and BIG things were captivating. www.easyreadingpicks.blogspot.com

Amy Grant Classic

This popped in my head this evening, and I hadn't listened to "Hope Set High" in a LONG time! But it's so true. Someone should dig & find the writer... And someone it reminds you of!

I've got my hope set high
That's why I came tonight
I need to see the truth
I need to see the light
And I can do my best
And pray to the Father
But the one thing I ought to know by now

When it all comes down
When it all comes down
If there's anything good that happens in life
It's from Jesus.

You know that when it all comes down
When it all comes down
If there's anything good that happens in life
It's from Jesus.

I've got my hope set high
And like a star at night
Out of the deepest dark
It shines the purest light.

I've got my hope set high
Beyond the wrong and right
I need to see the truth
I need to see the light.
Cause I can do my best
And pray to the Father
But the one thing I ought to know by now

When it all comes down
When it all comes down
If there's anything good that happens in life
It's from Jesus. 

Trashing Thoughts

This week I've had about three opportunities to "dump" my thoughts or even prayers. Someone came to mind that I hoped was sensing God's call in their hearts and minds, and as she had a difficult week, I called to check in. Now in doing that, I was able to praise Him - being aware that even under rough circumstances, she was maintaining the efforts needed to serve those around her. She hadn't abandoned God and her faith despite the challenges. I was thankful I had prayed before hearing of those rough spots, sensing there was a need for connecting.

Then, there's critical thinking. I've tried to stand up to it. This week in my bible study I read, "Sometimes a friend's sympathy and suggestions of unjust treatment can be the worst possible thing for us. This can make us feel sorry for ourselves, start a root of bitterness, and even shake our faith in God." These are times mercy has gone too far, and truth has been disregarded.

Now maybe there's a dreaded email, phone call, bad situation nagging your mind... My thought? Trash it! Pray and move forward, because otherwise it's hard to let go of those feelings. Speak the truth in love and don't ignore the nudge the holy spirit stirs in your heart. If it's for good, the light is spread and Christ's forgiveness is in its proper place. He's not afraid of garbage.

If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:8-9

Read Alouds

"Cheap, Cheap!" by Julie Stiegemeyer is so cute - reminds me of a cartoon. The best part is the line-up of words that are easy for beginning readers to pick up on...chicks wind up in heaps, asleep, etc.

"My Turn Bible Stories about Opposites" is chronologically depicting opposites in the bible, the narrative is short, but powerful. by Sarah Fletcher

"Hello, Hello!" by Miriam Schlein brings animals close-up and

explains how they greet one another. I love the variety in their introducti

ons and feeling like an eye-witness to their behaviors.

Melody Carlson about made me cry

the first time through "Don't W

orry about Tomorrow," as the freedoms and liberties she's depicted through birds and flowers are absolutely beautiful. I did cut out a few words as I read, but we picked this book up three times in a week - with rhyme I think you're likely to do that!

"Nora's Ark" was a a hit because it's a true story. There's a lot of suspense and great contrast in the drama from beginning to climax to the historic ending. It reminded me of the trip I took to New Orleans after the hurricane. by Natalie Kinsey-Warnock

"Wyatt's Wagon" is one of the few books to address ho

w to let the Lord step in when someone upsets you. Ju

st meeting those crisis moments with love and not aven

ging those who do wrong. Gary Bower captures the dialog

ue that's often heard from mouths of babes, but it's tender, and the moral

of the story is addressed in a Q &A at the end of the book.

Iowa B&B's

Did you catch the little guy in the middle?

While visiting family (aunt Dinny) in Iowa, I read through her brochure of Bed & Breakfasts across the state. A few of them weren't too far away - so here's the list for "future reference," right?!

www.hannahmarieinn.com - In Spencer, I thought the hosts looked so sweet!

www.innspirationbandb.com - New, liked the name & looks very relaxing.

www.kingsmanplace.com - In Spirit Lake - say no more.

The other goal I have is to make some curtains for Andrew's bedroom & our bathroom. Thought you could all keep me accountable to that one!

Fall Yummies

Chex Mix

Combine: 4 c. wheat Chex

4 c. rice chex

1 c. pretzels

1. c peanuts/mixed nuts

Stir together:

1 stick melted margarine

4 1/2 t. worch. sauce

1 1/4 t. Lawry's

1/2 t. garlic salt

Coat cereal w/ liquids & spices. Put on a 9x13 pan and bake at 250 degrees for 45 minutes, stirring every 15.

Too long for a status update

We couldn't find 1/2 of our toliet paper holder. I hunted in the usual spots...behind the laundry basket, in the closet, bathtub. Then Chad came home & I told him the spring and 1/2 of the holder were supporting our toliet paper because I was going to spend a FEW more days looking for the other piece. He started searching in those same spots, and I said, "I've looked everywhere." He wound up accidently knocking it out of the socket, and lo and behold, one 1/2 was stuck in the other 1/2. We got a chuckle out of its location!

thinking ?'s

Study the book of Proverbs in the Bible and learn the traits of trustworthy character so you can develop them yourself and recognize them in others.

Is there someone you can befriend? Striking up a friendship can be a great way to introduce a gal to Christ.

Reflections:
What is the current state of your friendships – are they nurturing? Godly?

Are you open to making new friends? Why or why not?

Fall Reading List

I'm all for new varieties, and Chad's into the traditional flavors - so together our family enjoyed "The Donut Chef" in the pursuit of daring flavors and yet the comfort from the familiar! The book by Bob Staake is in rhyme, and is well crafted. Since my dad was a baker, I'm thinking he may need it for his limited collection of children's books! (perhaps to read to our three)

"A Foot in the Mouth: Poems to Speak, Sing and Shout" selected by Paul Janeczko captured our new love for Origami with mixed media

illustrations using scraps of the colorful patterned paper! Chris Raschka was responsible for the oriental flair. The "Home Poem" was a rhyming collection of homes, such as, "Home of the mole: hole. Home of the ants: pants," and introduced a few new locations in a kid-friendly way. My favorite in the collection was "Squirrel

and Acorn," by Beverly McLoughland, loving its simplicity and how my children followed the drama line by line.

Mary Ann Hoberman's "The Llama who had no Pajama" was a wonderful collection, over 40 years mind you, of unique observations and creative uses of names of animals and bugs. It is definitely a book to read, and read again.

For the Prairie Pasque book Tuttle's Red Barn: The Story of America's Oldest Family Farm we chronicled the lives of several families. In 1632, John Tuttle set sail from England to Dover, New Hampshire. There he set up a farm on s

even acres of land. From those humble beginnings the Tuttle family story became America's story. As the Tuttles passed down the farm, along the way they witnessed the sett

lement and expansion of New England; they fought in the American Revolution; they helped runaway slaves along the Underground Railroad and sold maple syrup to Abraham Lincoln; they bought the first Model T in that Dover; and they transformed the old barn into the thriving country store it is today. My initial guess is that this is a christian family based on the choice of names seen through the generations. I'd like to do

some follow-up research to learn more about them. But - as far as the Prairie Pasque books go, we've discu

ssed all but two of them for the 3rd-5th grade selections! That's been a fun assignment!

Missed this summer...

One of our hopes was go to to a clean comedy show - being so fortunate to find one in our price range. I have a feeling it takes a lot more intelligence to be clean (just a hunch!)

So about nine months from now I'll be doing some checking into The Funny Barn in Spirit Lake, Iowa. There were a few brochures I picked up there when we visited some friends. Triggs Bay looked like a family-friendly resort, then there's A Touch of Heaven massage therapy (I don't think we'll need massage in heaven, but sounds lofty, none-the-less) - and then Funny Bone! Calling all clean comics!!!

Here's the links if you want to go. Nine more months until summer planning will arrive!

www.iowalakesmassage.com

www.funnybarn.com

Blessings, Jennifer - www.easyreadingpicks.blogspot.com

No Less than Everything

Written by Kyle Matthews, Tony Wood - "God Forbid"

Sang by Point of Grace

The more I know your power, Lord
The more I’m mindful
How casually we speak and sing your name
How often we have come to you
With no fear or wonder
And called upon you only for what we stand to gain
God forbid, that I find you so familiar
That I think of you as less than who you are
God forbid, that I should speak of you at all
Without a humble reverence in my heart, God forbid

Lord, I often talk about your love and mercy
How it seems to me your goodness has no end
It frightens me to think that I could take you for granted
Though you’re closer than a brother
You’re more than just a friend
You are father, God almighty
Lord of lords, you're King of kings
Beyond my understanding
No less than everything

Cleaning Song

We're working on keeping bathroom items in their proper place...Here's our new tune!

To the tune of "Jingle Bells" (fun in August, right?)

Put this stuff away

Put this stuff away

Put this stuff away

And your mom will be so proud

And happy everyday!

www.easyreadingpicks.blogspot.com

Prayer Tomorrow

Meeting for the first time for this school year with some women for Moms in Touch prayer tomorrow. I've pulled scripture on God being trustworthy - including his faithfulness, reliability and worthy of our confidence, and I need it.

How doubt creeps in from those difficult experiences with others. I read, "Our level of trust is based upon how someone has proven themselves to be faithful in the past. As you probably know from personal experience, it takes months and years to establish a high level of trust, but only a moment to destroy it." Somehow it can taint our views on God and how trustworthy He is. What we want seems more important than following God's will. As I look to tomorrow and that time of confession, it's relevant to seek Him for keeping me on track with reliability.

In this season of life, I mourn for broken confidences and rebellion on my part and others. What a blessing to have a forgiving God! Amazing He's forgiven things like rebellion and a lack of reliability in advance, and good thing He continues to restore us to faithful service - ultimately allowing trust to be built. Thank you, Lord.

Strawberry Salad

Toss romaine lettuce, strawberries & sesame seeds with this dressing, yum!

3/4 c. mayo (real)

1/3 c. sugar

1/2 c. milk

2 T. vinegar

Can you relate???

What is Marriage?

It's vacuuming carpets

and hammering nails

It's saving a dollar

by shopping at sales...

It's balancing checkbooks

and paying off bills.

It's cleaning the windows

and mopping up spills.

It's doing the laundy

and matching up socks.

It's a washer that dies

when the car need new shocks....

It's two busy schedules, but one happy life,

With each moment you share as husband & wife!

-- sent to me from my wonderful Grandma Helen

Sioux Falls Reading Families

The SD Reading Council's Reading Challenge http://sdrc.k12.sd.us/sdrcprograms.htm

1. Students can read books of their choice. No textbooks allowed. Students can also count the books that are read to them. Each book may be listed only one time.

2. Students may use the Log form provided or a similar form. The front of the form needs to have Name, Title of the book, Date finished book, and Number of pages. These pages are turned into the teacher or SDRC member to be checked. It is up to the teacher/sponsor to check entries for RED FLAGS before judging.

4. Name tag pages need to be turned into the local council to be judged at that level. Nametags must be filled in completely and legibly, and signed by the Local Council President. Only the NAMETAG PAGE needs to be sent to the state chairperson.

5. Forms need to be handed out by Sept. 1, 2009 and collected on January 3, 2010. This should be a learning experience. Make sure students understand the rules.

5. Individual students my submit entries to the local council committee with the signature of a sponsoring SDRC member

5. Local Councils may submit three regular and one modified entries per grade level to t

   he State Committee.

5. To be entered in the Modified category the student must be on a Language Arts IEP.

5. Local Councils may send the nametags with total pages read of three regular and one modified entries for each grade level, PreK to 12, to State Chairperson - Gary Weismantel - P.O. Box 331 – Herreid, SD 57632 – by January 9, 2010 or turned in during the Winter Leadership meeting.

5. Deadlines will be strictly enforced. Participating councils should make arrangements for mailing before the deadline date. Appeals for extensions of deadline dates will be treated on a case basis due to extreme circumstances only.

   

5. Decisions of the SD Reading Challenge are final. The SD Reading Challenge Committee will review all entries. Entries will not be returned.

5. All awards will be given at the annual convention of the SD Reading Council. (The dates for the convention vary according to scheduling). These dates will be listed in the SDRC Leadership manual every year and reminders printed in the SDRC Newsletters. In the event that a convention does not take place in a given year, awards will be mailed to winners.

Growing Strong in the Seasons of Life

...by Charles R. Swindoll

Qualities to Pass on to Your Children

Determination..."Stick with it, regardless."

Honesty..."Speak and live the truth...always."

Responsibility..."Be dependable, be trustworthy."

Thoughtfulness..."Think of others before yourself."

Confidentiality..."Don't tell secrets. Seal your lips."

Punctuality..."Be on time."

Self-control..."When under stress, stay calm."

Patience..."Fight irritability. Be willing to wait."

Purity..."Reject anything that lowers your standards."

Compassion..."When another hurts, feel it with him."

Diligence..."Work hard. Tough it out."

www.easyreadingpicks.blogspot.com

Watchful

I shot this photo as we watched Sae arrive, fumbling through her things. That afternoon her parents emailed me wondering if she still had her passport and memory sticks. Since then, she's taken 116 photos in three days and is delighted by experiencing a new country. Here's a few of her most frequent comments...

--American "fill in the blank" is big. Japanese "same object" is small.

--I like taco.

--I like Mario Cart. (she's played in Japan)

--Peace.

--Where are we going?

--Toliet.

--That was fun.

--Thank you for the delicious meal.

So Olana's decided that Sae has helped her with her manners. I said, "Doesn't all that appreciation feel good?" It just goes to show that a positive attitude is truly a blessing. Now I just need to remember to utter peace once in awhile! (realizing the solution means taking more photos)

Baking for Snacks

This recipe is great to share because of the cornmeal, which really adds to the texture. Andrew & I did some baking to have some snacks to get us through the week...

Pumpkin Bread

4 eggs 1 can pumpkin

2/3 c. water 2/3 c. unsalted butter

2 t. baking soda

1 t. ginger

½ t. cloves ½ t. nutmeg

1 ½ t. cinnamon ½ t. salt

½ c. walnuts

2 c. sugar

2 c. flour ½ c. wheat flour

½ c. cornmeal

Mix first four ingredients, add spices. Mix in dry ingredients and bake at 350 degrees for an hour – makes two loaves or 36 muffins.

Chad's Birthday Cake

My favorite part about making this was the chocolate dust during the mixing! (eating comes on Friday)

Fudgy Chocolate Cake

3/4 c. butter

3 eggs

1 c. sugar

1 c. brown sugar

2 t. vanilla

4 oz. unsweetened chocolate squares

1 1/2 c. milk

2 c. flour

3/4 c. cocoa

1 t. baking soda

3/4 t. baking powder

Cream butter and eggs with sugars with an electric mixer. Melt the chocolate squares and add in along with vanilla. Pour in some of the flour and cocoa to mix, alternating with milk until both are blended into the cake batter. Add baking soda & powder. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes for 9-inch pans, 45 minutes to an hour for a fluted tube pan. (I covered mine with aluminum foil for more even baking)

Frosting:

Melt 1 c. semisweet chocolate chips, add 1/4 c. butter

Stir in 4 oz. sour cream and 2 1/4 c. powdered sugar

Picture Book Plethora

Hang on, I have six picture books to review this week. As I do my mining for the best, I believe I struck gold. There are some new illustrators out there that have developed some amazing techniques, but it's hard not to let the writer in me get too picky!  Especially with "The Surprise Visitor" by Juli Kangas. You're going to have to muddle through names like Mr. Chibble, Mrs. Twitch and Mr. Crustydome all on page, but the story brings in some familiar characters that aren't often featured in children's stories 

(like the couple who's too particular/busy to have a family). The cutest pages are those showing the growing bunny family, and my daughter Sierra was hoping for cut-outs of the baby rabbits to hang onto. Maybe I can make her day and scan them in and print out a few for her to play with as we read!

"Forget Me Not" by Michael Broad is another with the author/illustrator combo, and again I found a few lines that I cut out to spare myself some repetition. This book is published by Barron's Press, which features books that are educational in nature. This one introduces terms like colonies, mobs and herds. The artistry combines soft, petaled flowers against the textured, crumpled brown-paper-bag-looking skin to draw in the eye and stand back amazed at the process. Themes of security and using caution also are carried through in this story.

"Monkey with a Toolbelt" and "I fly" were both educational, the toolbelt being more of a problem-solving story. "I fly" describes the experience of flying from a child's viewpoint. My son enjoyed both of these stories tremendously.

"Quiet Bunny" by Lisa McCue was one of my personal favorites. It's writing is fluid, and the way she characterized being the quiet one of the 

bunch was appealing. Maybe you're not as vocal as watchful? And perhaps the inner response can be externalized? This book explores the processing of engagment with others in descriptive sights and sounds.

In "All Afloat on Noah's Boat," Tony Mitton took a child through many animal encounters that weren't too far of a stretch on the imagination, with my children's favorite keeping their watchful eyes on the growing caterpillars. The appeal of this story is all of the activity on board, and the book's illustrations also provide a playfulness that shows how God's handiwork could mean a month's plus of unique animal behavior. Guy Parker-Rees also pulls in vivid color and every page is filled with movement. Beautifully done!  

Reviews at www.easyreadingpicks.blogspot.com

Anticipating Overseas Arrival

Now there's two weeks until Sae's arrival & she sent us some photos from her final preparatory session.  We think the exchange students described their families in a few words, or summarized their communication with their families.  

If that's what's on the board, then our family is described as "Song Birds."  Sae's looking forward 

to meeting our parakeet and singing with the girls.  They've learned "Yellow Submarine" this summer (which I also know) and a few other classics through the Park & Rec's summer singers.  

I also signed up this week to be a part of Allyou.com's Challenge on maintaining a budget of $25.00 per week per person (including eating out)!  It helps we buy our grocery money in the form of gift cards - but I'm curious to track it more closely to see what's what.  I know we spend a lot on apples, but they're so tasty!  And filling, and good for us...  I believe the old motto that an apple a day keeps the doctor away.  And it may just be time for a snack!

Trumpeting + French = Variety

Yes, I find this CD over-the-top in a sweet sense, but I love it!  

Emilie Simon's "The Flower Book" is what I needed for working out (something lively) and to get me moving around the house.  In one sense, it reminds me of the instrumentation and synthesized sounds of Blondie, but Simon's voice is purely feminine and five French tracks are up-tempo. Plus, the vocalization is smooth.  "Dame de Lotus" and "Feur de saison" give listeners a boost of energy and maybe a smile.  "flowers" tells a girls tell of wanting to buy her favorite guy flowers, and lamenting how that isn't kosher for their manhood.   Who's with me on that one?!

Chris Botti is a recommendation about as opposite as you can get!  I'm excited about this compilation because it has more vocal pieces included, and the trumpet solo tracks are outstanding.  Let me clarify, all of the his playing is outstanding, but the lyrics add the  "love" in love songs!  Go sappy; after all, it's July.

Hey, Jealousy...

My summer's study of "A Heart Like His" is knocking out some tinges of jealousy that were small, but I learned a few truth-filled verses that packed a much-needed punch. I say small, in some ways to make it feel easier to admit, yet knowing that without attention, these are the kinds of things we can allow to grow deeper roots and MAN, weeding is NO fun! Especially when it's hot and humid! So I'm making myself accountable to the fact that pulling out those eye-sores when they're small and the weather's temperate, because it's beneficial when pressure rises and at the core I'm cool.  

So, for all intensive gardening purposes (in a spiritual sense, most definitely)...this is the verse that caught my attention.  

I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for it. Indeed, you are still not ready. You are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and quarreling among you, are you not worldly? Are you not acting like mere men? For when one says, "I follow Paul," and another, "I follow Apollos," are you not mere men? 1 Corinthians 3:2-4 New International Version  

This verse shows

me how worldly jealousy is (yuck)! And to gets me back to what I'm supposed to be doing, I remember it's God's strength and cultivating at work in me. This verse is the one I'm clinging to for round 7? (I'm not actually counting!!!)  

Whoever speaks, is to do so as one who is speaking the utterances of God; whoever serves is to do so as one who is 

serving by the strength which God supplies; so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belongs the glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. From the New American Standard Vs. 1 Peter 4:11  

My prayer now is for strength. It's amazing how much strength it really does take to do God's will and nothing else. But I have seen this glory, even if on a small scale, for following correction and speaking the truth in love. In time, His harvest will come.

A little crafty...

First on the craft of writing, my nine-year-old took my four-year-old through the discoveries of planting a garden in "Mortimer's First Garden." The story by Karma Wilson builds through the waiting and hoping, through the rainy days to the climax of when there's green. This was fun to hear aloud, "Where his seed had been buried, the tiny green leaves poked through the earth. Mortimer danced and Mortimer pranced. He skipped around and around the tiny plant. "My garden!" he cried. "My miracle! Thank you, God!" Wilson is able to see the delight in God's creation and is witness to how a garden exemplifies its beauty.

Another discovery was the tender story of "Lucy Comes to Stay," where adventures with a new puppy show patience and the main character Mary Elizabeth nurturing the puppy's growth. It examines her lack of understanding for waiting to have Lucy sleep in her bed, but by the end of the book, it's time to embrace that step. This book has been my favorite read by Rosemary Wells.
"Name that Style. All about isms in Art" by Bob Raczka was my crafty book. I'm hoping to try a piece of "Op Art" with a willing child. The effects of this art are achieved by repeated geometric shapes and patterns along with contrasting colors. The idea behind Op Art is to explore how our eyes see. Although I learned a lot, I found the bio at the end the most delightful. Here's a sample: Bob Raczka lives in a yellow house with a picket fence in Glen Ellyn, Illinois (utopianism), with his wife, Amy (magnetism); their three children (adventurism) - and you get the idea.
Go explorism!

Father's Day Ideas (for women only - no peeking Dad!)

Jazzed over a few suggestions from Rick Bundschuh (a pastor in HAWAII!!!)  from his book "Dating your Mate:  Creative Dating Ideas for Those who are Married or Those Who Would Like to Be" for Father's Day.

-Unroll the toilet paper a ways and write a message, then roll it back up and wait for the discovery.

-Play checkers and on the bottom of your husband's pieces, tape small notes that must be read and obeyed when he loses that piece.  Examples are "I will get your slippers for you" or "Stop! You get a 2-minute backrub."  Etc.

And from Lynn Walker's "Queen of the Castle" her idea was to make him king for a day, complete with a crown and hokey cape, a towel w/ safety pins works...  Then the king decides on the day's activities and meals, family members are his faithful servants.

Learning Exercise, literally

On the last day of our family camping trip we came up with a list of what we learned. It's documented in my journal, as it's a fun thing to celebrate as family.  Not that we haven't done so before, but learning builds as you spend time together, and it's a journey to get to this phase - to the point where personhood goes far beyond meeting physical & emotional needs to the intellectual arena, kids asking questions and thinking critically. 

Some of our observations, in spoken order...

--you need to be flexible

-not having music to listen to at night is okay

--you meet new people camping

-it's fun, even though it's hard

--the fats in cinnamon roll dough makes it fall apart when you cook it over the fire

-steerable bikes are difficult to pedal

I'd encourage a family camping trip if you're feeling ready.  What I observed is how normal it seems that our needs are met. Putting ourselves in an environment where this doesn't so easily happen gave us opportunities to help each other meet challenges. 

Celebrating faith...

There were trumpets, cymbals and a chorus of "He is good, his love endures forever." Just saying it provokes the rhythmic dynamic of the praise. I want to be there, and in a sense, I am. God's people of that day were celebrating the completion of a temple where God's presence would rest until Jesus became our new way to have sins cleansed and our personhood renewed (2 Chronicles 5:12). 

Today there are many causes to celebrate, and I only hope we will remember to offer our whole selves - to be loud, to pull in as many who share a heart and voice of  goodness in faith that's true and blesses us through His abiding love, and to let go of fears holding us back. This last day of my study of Moses, I found myself thanking God for helping show me both His mercy and judgement to my children--a more complete picture of who He is...thanking Him for working on a sometimes rebellious heart and feelings of contempt when my way is forsaken, but most of all gratitude for power to change through following His spirit, walking in these discovered truths as I've understood them, and still the open opportunity to be forgiven if my feet stumble.  In my heart, there is a chorus of "He is good, his love endures forever," and accompaniment of trumpets and cymbals.  Please share if you have some praise welling inside of you today...isn't it a joy?

Happy-Go-Lucky, not-so-much

Although the story of "Happy-Go-Lucky" kept me guessing to how Poppy's life would end up, it equally frustrated me. I watched as Poppy made unconventional decisions, and supported most of them - yet also attempted to discern the sources of frustration she encountered, this happening four to five times each with a different person. To me, this was the common thread that had me not-so-happy most of the time. I think the ending shows how someone who lives with the gift of mercy but does not realize it's a spiritual gift from God would wind up feeling and responding. Although it's terrific she has supportive friends and people to bounce these situations and emotions off of, without the avenue of prayer, there is a considerable emptiness to the empathy she exudes. 

The climax of the conflict comes when a man who is falling into a fit of rage finally listens.  Poppy, Sally Hawkins, keeps repeating, "Calm down," and a few seconds later, "Calm down." The conviction I felt was to not entirely avoid someone who I believe may have the potential to "blow up," but instead see myself with the ability to speak those words of peace. And here's how Romans 12, verses 3-7 sum it up.

 ³For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.

The good news is that I do have a sense that my friends who share a faith in Christ, following Him through the words of the bible and time in prayer, do give themselves to the extent that I feel like they belong to me, and I to them. I see many who extend mercy with a heart-felt connection and great attitude. And once I heard how freaked out most people get to stand in front of others and teach - and this is no big deal for me. This is why I am grateful for others who are a part of my body...that my gift is enough, I know who gets the glory for it, and that I am completed by others who have different strengths.

Ivan Bates website?

I've been typing in "Ivan Bates" to search for his personal website.  Since he has a lot of work out there, all I come up with are booksellers with something he's illustrated.  Does anyone have tips for finding a personal site?

Cleaning is better than Rummaging

Today I found 3 pairs of flip flops, a missing shoe & a video to return to the library. 

I think that's a total of $12.00 I made from cleaning!

Food Camp for Grandma

When we brainstormed ideas for hosting our "Food Camp" for my mom & Mel, the thought to have a speed-eating contest was something the kids thought would be great.  It was our nightcap after a day cooking for them (and having them critique it of course) - and it went over smoothly.  I had to choose Jell-o because it was the only thing I could envision myself eating quickly without pain.  These unique adventures are new to my mom's hubby of nearly 2 yrs., so Chad bore the news I was serious.  I felt bad until he came in 2nd!  The kids took the photos and video and did great!  The best part was they finished off the strawberry Jell-o Mom & I didn't finish...

Art Direction by Tim Gillner

This is my daughter's artwork.  She tried a new medium the night of our writer's conference - although this piece was the closest thing I had scanned to represent her artistic combinations, the real thing was a red and blue FOOTBALL smeared with glue.  

All of our speakers at the spring SCBWI conference in Sioux Falls were humorous, and exactly what I needed for a snowy weekend. Tim pulled out examples of artwork submissions in the form of Christmas ornaments, magnets - and even a view finder.  From a writing perspective, he mentioned finding the climaxes of a story - and his favorite pick was a story about a child kissing their animals good night. I enjoyed it as well!  Now I have a long reading list pulling out titles from the Boyds Mills Press website, and I'm especially noticing all of the talented illustrators.  Looks like fun!

Author's Early Work

Jan Brett made a visit to Sioux Falls.  I looked too excited in the photo, so I had to crop myself out of it - but I did say hello!  We visited about one of her early books - St. Patrick's Day in the Morning, and I commented how it was interesting to see how her work is evolving.  Checked out the publication date for that book - all the way back to 1983.  Yet, it's great to see original reading material out there - a story of persistence & sharing cultural traditions for St. Patrick's Day (written by Eve Bunting & illustrated by Jan Brett)!

Personal Criticism

One note I had amongst my miscellaneous thoughts was about criticism.  I'm thankful most people think before they speak and weigh criticism heavily in their minds before disclosing.  

Some people have lists of improvements, but really don't want to contribute to making anything better. We look at the amount of effort it would take to make those improvements, and we shy away from opportunities.  I know there are times I have avoided challenge because the road seemed so long and difficult before me.  But the last thing I've though about was how setting criticism aside, as just negativity, could keep us from learning.  

Take for example, someone floundering in the kitchen.  You give them techniques for making the process easier, but they get defensive and say, "Well, if you're so good at it, why don't you do it?"  The response to that question is that, "I want you to learn."  Yes, someone else could do the job in front of you - but don't let criticism block you from trying something beyond your comfort zone, and doing a task that will ultimately benefit you in life.  

I can't say I won't be crabby when I hear something negative, but I do hope I will be open enough to hear it.  And then look at the learning opportunity that may be ahead.

Apple Season and then some...

I've been having too much fun on Facebook - I must admit that's where the last apple recipe I've tried is posted!  

These four apple plates are available in sets of four from www.theafternoon.com.  It's a great place to get ideas for gift-orientated books.  We love dropping in there while shopping the Mall of America.  I even learned why men have nipples!

Creativity Muse UND Writer's Conference

First inspiration first.  I've completed a small video about "I'm Glad I'm a Mom" posted now on Facebook!  Mark Geary shared his tidbits about the Best Practices for the Internet.  He mostly spoke in language I didn't understand, but afterwards - I tried out IMovie & it's not so bad.

From a writing standpoint, I learned the most from Will Weaver.  It was a delight to hear him read and have him candidly speaking of his growth and pains as a writer.  Plus, his attitude is four-star.  He talked about how at the sentence level "we need to have things under control."  And then with my critique, he did comment on how well I had that part covered.  That was great feedback.  Weaver read from his book "Full Service" and addressed how the modern metaphor of the title is how many are promoters of "self-service."  Another metaphor he shared was how a paragraph is like a hard-boiled egg.  It has the main idea, or yolk, inside - and a pleasing shape!  That was one he shared spur-of-the-moment with his breakfast in hand and I'm sure we appreciated it more than the college students could have.

Sarah Shumway was super sweet...and highlighted her work at Dutton.  She had surveyed some of their editors to find out they are looking for that unique voice - and Shumway along with Andrea Weiss from Evan-Moor both commented how difficult that term is to define.  So as long as I don't live in mainstream, I should be fine.  Hmm...  I do think it's rather comfortable here.  We'll see what I can do!

Writing pause for "the conference"

There have been two magazine assignments I've been working on, but I don't think I can start any new projects until I have the conference behind me.

Instead I'm opting for hot chocolate at Barnes & Noble.  

The conference will have Will Weaver, who wrote the short story which Sweetland is based on.  He also has teaching experience, so I'm hoping to get some of the technical questions in & propel my writing into as active of a voice as I can muster!

Here's the conference link -

www.english.und.edu/childrenslit/childrenslit08.html

Another author recently moved to Sioux Falls as well - Jane Healy!  She's also a blogger at www.readlearnandbehappy.blogspot.com

Welcome to Fall, Jennifer

Apple Creations - Mine included...

Somewhere there's an artist who created this...my gift today to the family was apple pie & apple bars.  Newest kick is the facebook page, so find me there...

Art from a 6-year-old

Illustrations amaze me.  Take this drawing from my 6-year-old daughter - I could NOT do this!  She didn't look at anything, and she came up with five layers of flowering.  Is that how I should describe it?  I'm sure there's a better way - but you get my drift.  There's a gift there.

One of the points in "The Cure for the Common Life" took note of the verse in Proverbs about training your children in the way they should go. There was some insight in the origin of the word "way."  That it used to have more to do with "bent" or just the directions in which your child is interested in.  

We ran into our Laura Wilder art teacher today - Miss Wilson.  I told her the girls are ready to "art it up!"  The other day, this observant 6-year-old pointed out the mural at the water park we visited.  She was the only one in our family to really "see" it - talk about the way SHE should GO!  

Getting Cured...

One of the principles Lucado suggests is how we come with a "backpack" of sorts - things to unpack from God & to discover how we've been gifted.  I think it's a fun idea for the book study I'm working on to bring a "backpack" of some miscellaneous things to relate to our lives.  Any suggestions of items to connect?  I was thinking a key chain, and somewhere is my list!  

www.art-moms.com are from Sioux Falls!

Worms from South Dakota

Our fellow native Iowans were comparing South Dakota's worms.  Of course, Iowa's came out on top! 

We did some digging in the garden this week, and I didn't find any of the big night crawlers like we did in Iowa. 

I'm assuming they do really exist here.  Kids had fun fishing with them, as well as this Wiggle & Waggle story by Caroline Arnold.  

A few other picks are included that are new favorites - except I couldn't find a photo of Baa for Beginners by Deborah Fajerman (but I didn't hunt either).  Guess I did better on searching for worms!

Writing Exercise #6 - Tommy Walker

Sunday during worship "I have a Father" - was a song I wanted to know more about.  I've seen Tommy Walker's name on a few we've learned at Central.  www.TommyWalker.net shares more of his music and gives instruction to his methods in writing a song.  The topic of staying on a theme - and soaking into the major line of the song is what struck me.  My hope is work on this with something I'm writing about right now - being true to your mate.  Everyday being true to the core in this love, inspired by the verse in Proverbs 31:12 saying, "She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life."  

Writing exercise...when we can share that inspiration so clearly, focused & with intention, it will bring about eternal change. This is powerful, beautiful & can bring lasting joy as the good takes root in our lives.  

Romantic T's

Here's some fashion from the past (Chad w/ his parents Jan & Ken) - and "From me Tees" are something I would wear.  It's borderline for those dating days when we were labeled "pathetic", but I think an anniversary will provoke these types of reactions!  There is one that has a petaled flower & goes on about "He loves me, He loves me a lot."  That's an adorable summer t-shirt, right?

  www.frommetees.com  was found at chic shopper chick - thanks for the referral!

Sweet Land

May 29th celebrates 9 years of marriage for Chad & I!  Since it's a celebration, we are hoping to find a spot in Johnny Carino's fireside room. I keep my eye on it, but usually it fills up so quickly.  

There's a poem I found in a marriage book I'm working on (yes, working on!)  It's a good thing to be diligent in marriage, as this poem highlights.  It was anonymous, so I added some edits, enjoy -

The world we know can be construed for hours

On a fantasy love filled with moonlight and flowers

But real love isn't like that - it has highs and lows,

And we must keep our direction, however it flows.

I made the decision that I'd love you with all of my heart,

So if my pulse stops racing as you enter the room,

If my sunshiny days turn into gloom,

If words said in anger cut deep to the core,

I won't love you less - just perhaps, forgive more.

Emotions are fickle, we can't live by whim,

Changing affections like chaff in the wind.

I've made my decision and I'll follow through;

Love is a decision, I've decided to love you.

Choose your love, then love your choice.

Chocolate Craze

This is how we spent Mother's Day...playing the "Chocolate Game."  

- Premise:  You get to eat chocolate, but only after wearing three or so winter props & using a fork and knife.  

- And --  You have to get it done before the next person rolls a six, or the dice lined with two rows of three!

Thanks to Denise & Kristin for introducing our MOPS table leaders to our activity, and thanks to Jan for the incredible photo.  She rolled a lot of sixes before she actually got to eat anything!  As for me, I was trying to get some photos, keep from over-indulging in chocolate (we had already had a peanut butter pie), and then I kept rolling a six.  I did a lot of cutting with the knife (there's a hint to let everyone enjoy the "Chocolate Game."  

Kid Daze

At the MOPS Summit, we had the opportunity to chart out our time. Luckily I was sitting by a friend who knew I should finish my activity! I mentioned how the two hours after school before dinner have been the roughest for me lately. Then the assignment was to brainstorm two ways you could improve that time. So, I made up a list by day of the week. I'm looking forward to these themes & am going to post a couple of books that could come in handy for tasks at such a time as this!

Monday - Praise & Thanksgiving Day

Tuesday - Craft Day

Wednesday - Cooking Day

Thursday - Letters to Friends Time

Friday - Game Nights

Saturday - Family Time

Sunday - Love, Devotion & Worship

The Kid's Book of Weather Forecasting: Build a Weather Station, 'Read the Sky' & Make Predictions! (Williamson Kids Can! Series) (Paperback)by Mark Breen (Author), Kathleen Friestad (Author), Michael Kline (Illustrator)

Writing Exercise #5 - Add to the Reading List

http://www.fireandknowledge.org/archives/2007/01/08/a-guide-to-writing-well/ This link provided some solid advice. And to add to the reading list on advancing the craft, try...

How to grow a novel : the most common mistakes writers make and how to overcome them / Sol Stein.

Good advice on writing : writers past and present on how to write well / compiled and edited by William Safire and Leonard Safir.

Elements of style / by William Strunk Jr ; with revisions, an introduction, and a chapter on writing by E.B. White.

How to write (and sell) a Christian novel : proven and practical advice from a best-selling author / Gilbert Morris.

I appreciated hearing feedback from readers from my March Etc. story about Lora Hazelrigg. She paints murals and here's a glimpse in visual form -

The Nut House

Here's something I'm looking at for my dad's log cabin! It's kind of cute for family, right? His birthday is coming up in April, too.



Another April event for us will be going to Freeman to see The Sound of Music at Schmeckfest.


Schmeckfest (festival of tasting) is a four-day festival in Freeman, South Dakota that celebrates the heritage and culture of Germans from Russia, specifically Russian Mennonites, who migrated to North America starting in the 1870s. Established in 1959, German culture is showcased through traditional food and crafts prepared and demonstrated by the local Freeman community. Schmeckfest has been held every spring since and has grown to accommodate more than 5,000 guests every year. The event is held at Freeman Academy, a grade 5 to 12 private school, and raises $90,000 annually for the school.

Yes, we're going for the food!

This Kingdom's Coming

When we celebrated our new sanctuary, we spelled out Kingdom with stones we had held during the service. Pastor James pointed out how warm they were - and it was a moving experience. I think of Sara Groves lyrics, "Without You, I'm a cold, dark stone." How true. I'm also excited about our facilities at Central Baptist for the upcoming writer's conference. Below are the details...

Highlights for Children Editor to Speak in Sioux Falls on March 29 Public Invited to Attend

Marileta Robinson, Senior Editor at Highlights for Children, will speak to area writers, illustrators. and children’s literature enthusiasts on Saturday, March 29, at Central Baptist Church in Sioux Falls.

Robinson will join four area presenters at the second annual Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators spring conference, “Creating Stories for Children: Book, Magazines, and Beyond.”

The public is invited to attend. Additional speakers include Angela Corbo Gier, Sioux Falls, designer of children’s books and marketing materials for Disney Publishing Worldwide, Penguin, and other children’s publishers; Roxane B. Salonen, Fargo, author of First Salmon and P is for Peace Garden; Jean L.S. Patrick, Mitchell, author of The Girl Who Struck Out Babe Ruth; and freelance writer, Lori Walsh, Sioux Falls, whose work appears in Babybug and Ladybug.

The conference begins at 9:00 am, followed by an informal manuscript and portfolio exchange at 4:00 pm. Preregistration is strongly encouraged. For information and brochure, please call (605) 996-2110 or visit www.scbwidakotas.org

Seeking God's will today

We crave greatness for our lives and God asks us to become little. To pass through the door that leads to His kingdom, we must go down on our knees. Catherine Doherty

The more humble one is at God's feet, the more useful he is in God's hand. Nee

Dragon Girl?

This is my quote for the week..."If you can't stand the heat, don't tickle the dragon." Truthfully, I haven't given much heat - but I can feel it boiling. And I just read an article how stress (and then the cortisol that's released) affects your health. That was in Body + Soul...good for REVIEW!! Here's my "happy dragon." She's from http://www.upstartpromotions.com/. Love their stuff! I think I may have to start something like this for my kid's reading or better yet - considerate behavior to their siblings. After all, that's what tickles the dragon.

I'm Glad I'm a Mom 1st Review!

I wanted to share the following review with all of you. It can be found on reviewyourbook.com and was written by Debra Gaynor. She gave it 5 stars!

"Many moms wonder if their life is normal. Only through discussion do we come to realize that we all face the same doubts, trials, and triumphs that come along with motherhood. I knew this book was going to be a favorite when I saw the name Liz Curtis Higgs as a contributor. I was a stay-at-home mom of three children under two, and can relate to many of the ancecdotes in this delightful book.

Approximately fifty moms band together to create this book filled with stories that will bring a smile to your face and an occasional tear. From eating cat food, to being stuck in a tambourine, these stories will entertain you. "Pillow Fight" by Deborah Raney is a humorous and yet so touching sotry about a pillow with a face drawn on it, used as a punching bag and used to keep college student's homesickness at bay. I could relate to "Who's in Charge?" by Kendra Smiley, I too raised a strong-willed child. WHile that trait made life stressful when she was a child it has also served to make her a strong, independent woman, one that I am very proud of.

I'm Glad I'm a Mom does more than entertain, it celebrates motherhood, encourages us not to despair, and it reminds us that our memories are precious; hold tight to them. Our children are gifts from God. I'm Glad I'm a Mom will make a terrific gift for any mom."

Also, I just learned from Harvest House that "I'm Glad I'm a Mom" will be on a front table at Family Christian Stores for Mother’s Day!

Boys, boys, boys

I'm posting my son's drawing of his bedroom. He's three years old! I'm proud of his budding artwork (and will take it as long as it lasts!) Boys, boys, boys! Then, a shirt I'm considering for my dad's birthday or somewhere down the road. He's a Three Stooges fan. It so fits his personality - http://www.whatonearthcatalog.com/ -

Cheesy Idea

My Fondue book by Fiona Smith is due at the library. I'm taking it back but wanted to make sure I remembered to try broiling raclette cheese sometime soon. igourmet describes it as follows:

The world's most famous melting cheese, Raclette is made in the Alps on both sides of the French-Swiss border. The French version is perhaps a bit softer than Swiss Raclette, but the two taste very similar. Raclette has a semi-soft interior dotted with small holes and a rosy inedible rind. Eaten as a table cheese, Raclette has a smooth, creamy taste that is neither too salty nor sharp. This cheese is traditionally melted and layered atop boiled potatoes, pickles, fresh vegetables and sliced meats.

Not the Lemon Tree!

This is quite the opposite from Peter, Paul & Mary's "Lemon Tree." This was the centerpiece for our Time for Two a couple of weeks ago already! We've had a series of four date nights, each with speakers on a given theme. My biggest area of learning lately pertaining to relationships is understanding!

Proverbs 20:5 The purposes of a man's heart are deep waters, but a man of understanding draws them out. I think the man in this relationship has this figured out - unfortunate for me, the woman is readily working on it!

Holiday Hits

Awe. It still happens. I consider how a great God rescued me, teaches me, helps me - guides me, and I can't get over His generosity. Rahab, by Francine Rivers, closes with Rahab's process of being accepted by God's people. Her experiences draw me back to the times I have felt inadequate to be a believer. Yet I am an heir, not an orphan. Now I know others share in the same feelings - but do not allow themselves to act upon inferiority, they listen to what is true...they keep following a God who loves them and will help them in times of need. Needs are met one at a time, and amazing things happen through this acceptance of sufficiency through Christ. Shadowlands was recommended to my by my dearest aunt Lisa. It also displays inner changes of the heart through CS Lewis - his writings, faith and love. It has awe written all over it.

White Christmas

Thought this was a merry way to have Christmas in Sioux Falls! I sang "White Christmas," but I really wanted to hear the sleigh bells in the snow - not the snowmobiles! However, I'm sure it was a fun ride! I think I need to add some embellishments to the photo - maybe a little holiday glow...and I'm set to remember Christmas 07'!

It's beginning...

To look a lot like Christmas! Forgive me if I'm over-zealous, but I haven't thought about Christmas shopping yet this week, I've decorated Christmas Cookies and sang some Christmas Carols! We are sporting some new tunes this round of neighborhood caroling. We found last year that they loved it and treated us to their Christmas baking - that's a good thing! Another plan is to attend the 12 Goodies of Christmas event sponsored by KNWC. Their information is below -

Take a break and join the Life 96.5 staff Saturday December 15th from 12 - 3 and taste the "twelve goodies of Christmas" for free. We need you to vote on your favorite one! And yes, we're counting on your kids to vote too. Great Plains Coffee will be serving up free gourmet coffee, too.The fun tasting/voting event will be held at First Evangelical Free Church in Sioux Falls on Saturday Dec 15, 2007 from 12 – 3pm. The church is on 69th street between Western and Louise Avenue.


And if you've decided you're up for some cookie making - this is the recipe I treated our family to...


Sugar Cookie Cutouts

A block of cream cheese adds zest and ease to these sugar cookies.
½ c. butter
½ c. applesauce
8 oz. Cream cheese
1 egg
1 t. baking powder
1 ½ c. sugar
4 c. flour
½ t. almond extract
1 t. vanilla

Beat softened cream cheese, butter, applesauce & flavors until creamy. Slowly add dry ingredients until blended. Chill for 1 hour. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface and cut out cookies. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes.

Frosting:
½ c. shortening
½ t. salt
1/3 c. milk
1 t. vanilla
3 c. powdered sugar

Blend ingredients with a mixer and add food coloring if desired.

Enjoy!

Sheltered Dreams

To a certain extent, I've had the sense that dreams had a way of being protected. I think I'm finding that even as I tell others where I'm at, they are respectful of idealistic thinking, honest when necessary and definitely helpful at times. In some of my time spent reading yesterday, I found this poem which illustrates the value in supporting the dreams of friends, family members, and possibly even strangers.



Hope is the thing with feathers
That perches in the soul,
And sings the tune – without the words,
And never stops at all,

And sweetest in the gales is heard;
And sore must be the storm
That could abash the little bird
That kept so many warm.

I’ve heard it in the chillest land,
And on the strangest sea;
Yet, never, in extremity,
It asked a crumb of me. --Emily Dickinson

Would you pick this flower?

Pink...Liz Curtis Higgs and my kids' story - yes, I am excited! One of the best parts is how this illustration of motherhood really reflects upon a moment I consider a mistake. A time when something I said helped me grasp how important praise was to my daughters, and now son. It it my hope that I will continue to work out of humility rather than placing a higher value on success from an outward glance. I do know that the challenge of writing is for the purpose of service to others - and then running from the temptation to soil what is good with the things that are not worthy of the precious time we have. I truly am...glad I'm a Mom.

November News

Shopping already! We are celebrating a Christmas the weekend of Thanksgiving. It's been at least five years now we've done that with my extended family. It's nice to get some of the shopping out of the way. On my wishlist are a few of the outlet necklaces from Coldwater Creek. I have a new solid brown dress for the winter, so I need something with some variety to add some interest. But as far as GIVING GOES - I have found Bill Porter's story, and I have purchased the book and three copies of Door to Door. It doesn't say on the outside it's a true story, so when a website flashed at the end I was surprised. What a great story during National Caregivers Month, too. Speaking of - the Etc. profile for the month was Beth Deckert, she wrote Take Care to describe some of the emotional angles of taking care of another person (her husband has MS) and taking care of yourself. Hmm...do I need to get better at that? Thinking I'd better watch out!

Fall Decorating

* This styrofoam ball gets sliced in two and painted for a turkey caddy! My hope is to prepare these for the kids to do over Thanksgiving as we travel. Then they can take the artwork from there - thanks to www.familyfun.com.

* One fall table was decorated with green placemats, colorful napkins and centerpieces - but then ivory tablecloths. It was a refreshing combination.

* At a decorating seminar I heard the idea to put mums in pumpkins. Also surrounding a pumpkin atop moss with sunflowers - all the color just pops.

* I've seen a container covered with the shells of nuts, but placing berries inside was a new twist. It looked festive and would easily transition to Thanksgiving decor.

* Plastic cups - arrange them in mixed order of reds, orange, yellow and green.

* Cute to surround a pumpkin with knarly vine sitting on a large plate.

Think that's a good start - now I just need to get digging in the basement!

Kickin' In

Here's one craft idea that got pushed aside through our battle with illness in September. The cubes are unflavored gelatin with food coloring...all sealed in a plastic bag with electrical tape. We're going to make this, or mix some play dough, as we're out of that, too! For our day off on Columbus Day we did rubbings of quarters, dimes...pennies - and Olana & Sierra played together for an hour with that project. It was funny because I mentioned I was using it for the preschoolers at bible study. At first they shyed away from it, but when I wasn't looking they dug into the supplies. Chad grabbed everything off the table for supper...he didn't see the looming project in front of him! But we had no "dumps," so everything was fine. I know you're relieved. We are hoping for October's creativity to kick into high gear - there's definitely a starving artist in more than one sense of the definition.

7, 5, & almost 3

We've been finding a lot of books we've really enjoyed lately. From popularity for my oldest to my youngest, ages 7, 5, and almost 3...these three books represent one for each child.

There's a jewelry tree given at a birthday party in Winnie & Ernst by Gina Freschet...I won't ruin the surprise of how it's made!

How I Spent my Summer Vacation by Mark Teague uses rhyme and it is very well done. It takes a creative spin on what summer break can entail (as demonstrated by the cover).

Normally I am very tired of hearing authors make up new words and using little sound bites, but not with Chicky Chicky Chook Chook. We read this with a classroom of three-year-olds and they were giggling away. My son loved it at least 7 times! I had to keep reading it just to hear him attempting the new sounds he heard. The talent of Cathy MacLennan goes even further with illustrations briming with imagination and texture!

First MOPS - The Home Factor

Our task for MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) was to construct from graham crackers, prezels, marshmallows and frosting a home matching our table's designated theme. We are the log cabin...hence the brown, and then there were farm houses, colonials, villas and beach houses with pink, blue and green frostings. The heart on the top of our house shows how it's packed with love! The only thing is, I wish you could see the frosting fingers, but my hand didn't get into the chocolate. What was I thinking?

Our craft was demonstrated by the other Jennifer Noble in our group. I just can't escape the commonality of my name! But the premise was so simple we will make them for the teachers at my daughters' school. Just adhese the decorative paper with double-sided tape...then Terrifically Tacky Tape around the seam (they come in little labels to fit the top of the pen), and last you add the minature glass beads. Ours were in a plastic bag, but at home I think I'll try a bowl filled with them. Wa-la a gorgeous practical item - I love it!

A Big Spectacle

Pair #1

Pair #2

This week has been in pursuit of some new spectacles! Not the easiest thing to do over Labor Day weekend. The good news was I had an old pair of disposable contacts. I had stopped wearing them because of the dryness for my eyes. But the bad news was my old pair of glasses were completely broken. So - big suprise...not only did I find two frames to choose from, I also colored my hair. I told my neighbor I was searching for a new disguise. Now that I'm getting used to the look, thought I'd pass along my quest trying on a couple frames. Everyone thought the logos were quite distracting. My hope is the contacts thing may work out. The doctor said they have a 30% better breathability from five years ago. After I throw out these old disposables, I'll have to give them a shot.

Lifelight + Chasen = You tell me

We've been spending some time this weekend out at Lifelight. The three stages are very visable from the entry to the festival this year which I don't remember so much from years past. Air1 is an alternative Christian radio station where I was introduced to Chasen's music. There's a lot to hear of them online right now as they are a newer band. I'm thinking they may appear on one of those Lifelight stages next year...or soon after! Check out their song from Air1.

Crazy Beautiful
Everybody’s been there everyone’s the same but mostly we don’t care isn’t that a shame. We bring us down face after face the inside is beautiful but the outside we want to change. We want to change. Whoa you’re oh so beautiful, you don’t need anyone’s approval You’ve got to believe in your self you know you are You’re crazy beautifulWell every new year you say your gonna change From the way you live to how much you weigh, we don’t want to change.Whoa you’re oh so beautiful, you don’t need anyone’s approval You’ve got to believe in your self you know you are You’re crazy beautifulTake a look it’s all around you See the world from different views The way you shine from the inside I know with out a doubt It’s more than what you’ll be In the world’s eyes.Whoa you’re oh so beautiful, you don’t need anyone’s a approval You’ve got to believe in your self you know you are You’re crazy beautiful

Creativity?

I was emailing with a friend and telling her how I had so many things to get cleaned up, prepped for fall, etc., that I couldn't get my creative projects started until I had wrapped up those must-dos! I cheated a tad and took a break to do some sewing. That sewing led me to work on the fabric I had purchased two years ago to construct curtains for our sunroom. I also had an idea to use our plastic tubs to make a semi-couch type outfit...at least something for the kids to sit on while they use their roller coaster in the basement (photo will come later). So now I'M on a roll. I was smiling as I looked at the Country Door catelog today (http://www.countrydoor.com/). There were curtains similar in style to what I've created. I'll attach a photo to remind you of what leaving your tasks behind to do some creating can lead to!

Summer Entertainment

Air tap is a visual instrumentation with the guitar held horizontally. Erik Monograin was part of the Leadership Summit worship my husband partipated in this August. Find more and listen at his site http://www.erikmongrain.com/Biography.asp

For the youngsters, we rented Are We Done Yet? We enjoyed some of the perfectionist humor in the character of Chuck played by John McGinley (who we also saw in Wild Hogs this summer). I still get cracked up hearing a friend of mine mistakingly call that movie Hog Wild. It then confused me so much that in discussing the movie with my hubby I called it Mad Cows. I was drawing a complete blank on the title at the time!

To study some writing techniques, I read The Indian in the Cupboard for its fictional elements. I had high hopes for the girls taking a liking to it, but no luck there. My seven-year-old did find the curious story of Blueberry Shoe by Ann Dixon a delight, and I scored on that search with a Blueberry Cookbook. Next week will be the scones with blueberry topping. Yum!

Wedding Brainstorming

7-7-07 was a popular wedding date for many - one being my mom, now Donna Alloway. Sounds like a pretty cool name, and she married a pretty cool guy! As I was digging around for her, I found this decorative idea from Pottery Barn. She chose shells for her theme, and I loved this lining place mats with the shells. It looks more unified with them all circling together.

Summer Favorites

Curious George books by Margaret

Rey are so common, but Pretzel was one I found through a recommendation on Bookadventure.com. It was a story of how Pretzel's normal charm doesn't cut it with his doggie-dream of a partner! He does end up winning her over, but not without some effort. Wouldn't want love to come too quickly! Then, Huggly's Pizza by Tedd Arnold ended up changing our dinner plans one evening. We already love pizza, so it was an easy sell.

For my birthday, a friend gave me this
journal published by Inspirio Gifts through Zondervan Publishing. I have enjoyed the quotations about prayer and of scripture tremendously. It is listed on their website and retails for $9.99. It has been a blessing to my prayer life so far this year. I have about 10 pages left, so it's getting filled too fast. Guess that's a good sign.

The other summer read for me is Francine River's The Scarlet Thread. Since I have read stories of biblical characters which she has put into a fictional context, this one isn't capturing my interests as much. I have learned more about writing, from the standpoint of capturing someone in stress-mode; however, that doesn't make for a relaxing read for me! I plan on getting back to the Lineage of Grace and Sons of Encouragement series this fall and winter.

Also enjoying the parks, community theater productions and writing with the encouragement of those God has graciously brought into my life. Now only if the girls would stop fighting! We're still working on that one.

Behind the Scenes - May's KNWC announcer

Listening to KNWC radio one morning, it struck me how much Luanne Christensen had in common with Sherry Rivers. On Valentine's Day, Sherry told a story on KLOVE about her husband giving her young daughter a rose for every Valentine's Day. She didn't give any reasons for the sweet gesture, but my hopes were that she would understand how much her father has invested in her future. Perhaps his eyes are lovingly aware of her some-day choices in dating and even marriage. I had the opportunity to interview Luanne for the May issue for Etc., telling about her adoption from China. I also did some digging and found an interview with Jon & Sherry Rivers about their international adoption of their daughter Lexi. Here's a snippet...

Tell us about the adoption process how did little Lexi come into your lives?
(Jon) God just spoke to me. I didn't want to adopt anything, let alone a child from a foreign country.
(Sherry) We had dealt with infertility for fifteen years. We've been down that road and certainly understand it. We've wanted a child since we first got married.
(Jon) And even though we were around Steven Curtis Chapman and Geoff Moore and saw their cute little babies, that had no affect on me whatsoever, other than disgust because I just had no interest in adoption at all. One day God simply slapped me upside the head and said, "Go get her!". And that moment we started the adoption process.

Author & Illustrator

As I did my last upload of photos from the previous month, I noticed two contrasting works of art. There was one creation of a poem, written by my seven-year-old, which completely captured my heart! Then there was a colorful display of Legos built by my second daughter, age five. I couldn't help but see the potential for an author and illustrator out of these two creative efforts!

Way to go, girls!

Florals - fabric - fantastic!

I have fabric in a black floral to create some new projects. Here are a couple of idea starters I found. My other search is for a wire shelf. I saw a set of three in decreasing lengths, hung together from smallest on top to the largest on the bottom.These shelves were in a catalog I evidently received once! I believe they were in a lighter shade of green, and I was hoping to work them into my daughter's room. If you know of any out there, please help me in the hunt!

Demo-licious - gotta try um'!

Two recipes below I love because of their freezer friendliness! Plus both make a couple of batches (or one large dose!)

Buttermilk Bran Muffins

Moist and delicious, aren’t you glad they are good for you?

6 c. bran buds 2 c. boiling water
1 c. vegetable oil 2 t. salt
4 eggs 5 t. baking soda
5 c. flour 3 c. sugar
1 quart buttermilk

Boil water and add in 2 cups of bran buds. After buds have softened, remove from heat and allow buds to cool. In a large boil, mix remaining ingredients with additional four cups bran buds, and then add the warm bran mixture. Stir well and prepare in muffin tins. Bake at 400 degrees for 200 minutes. Keeps up to 6 weeks in the refrigerator, and can be frozen, too.

Pasta Shells
Mix: 2 c. Mozerella cheese & 1 carton Ricotta cheese & 1 carton of Tofu with one egg and ¼ t. garlic salt or powder. Boil one box of large pasta shells until just soft and fill with cheese mix. Lay in 9 x 13 pan in spaghetti sauce. Cover shells with spaghetti sauce. Bake covered for 30 min. at 350 degrees.

For summer grilling - Beef or Chicken Marinade

2-3 lb. Meat
1/3 c. lemon juice
¼ c. Worcestershire sauce
1 T. mustard
1 c. oil
½ c. red wine vinegar
½ c. soy sauce
1 T. pepper
2 t. minced garlic

Combine all marinade ingredients. Pour into containers over meat. Let set for 3-4 hours and prepare.





Last of all - remember those things moms can't do! Douglas Wood couldn't have said it any better...this is just the cutest story (from a mom's point of view!) And p.s. if you need a snack after reading, remember the apples, golden raisins, pecans & t. of cran juice (any flavor) - yummy........

Found a New Honey!

There's a new honey I am totally craving these days. On an Adventureland exploration, a sweet friend of mine and I both tried some flavored honey. She had the raspberry and I sampled the peach. We both ended up buying the kind we sampled which makes me think if we would have kept sampling, we maybe would have bought some more. At $3.75 per honeybear, I thought it was fairly close to the prices of honey in the stores. But I will need to check that for accuracy...I'm sure there was a marginal profit in there somewhere! Now that I'm back in Sioux Falls, I decided to investigate their website. They ship with a $8.70 or so shipping rate, so if I do order...I'm going to need some friends to join with me! Until then, come over for some toast with peach honey...flavoring your cup of tea perhaps as well!

www.randolhoney.com

A Poser?

The second time this word came up in a weekend and I began to consider its weight. I have been under the conviction for awhile that I have tipped the scale too far to the side of "speaking truth with love"... What happened, I decided, was in a few situations the truth started escaping from me as I had no clue how to get the "love" into the picture. There was a void in the love department--whereby I was not seeking a supply for it. I am now very excited to hear from Brennan Manning Thursday, May 3rd. His whole line-up is listed at http://www.argusleader.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070405/NEWS/704050350405/NEWS/70405035 and several of his books I was digging into on Amazon. Creativity is calling me! Wild Hogs is my second source of challenge in the posing department. The only tough thing is last week I called someone on offending me--past the overlooking point. It landed me out of the "helpful" department to the X-list. I decided after a few hours I didn't mind being there at all. I'm thinking that means I'm closer to truth....without enough details to deem an opinions...perhaps it's a digression from a potential pose. I'd like to think so.

Still reading...

Landmark Editions has a great opportunity out there for young writers and illustrators. They publish a winning story in different age categories annually. We have read a few of the titles and hope to find more. The stories do a identify with our kids! We have only read titles in the younger age bracket (6-9).

Other fun things include our Family Wellness pass and the Plasma Car! The Plasma Car has recently been repaired at the playgroup down the road in our local community center. It is such a dangerously fun toy! I wish they made them for grown-ups (that's how it got broken by the way) - AND NOT ME!!!

Send a Card to our Troops!

There are several cards to choose from to send to our troops in Iraq.







Go to www.letssaythanks.com. What an easy way to show appreciation...

Born to Cake Walk, baby! Oh yeah, oh yeah...

So my husband and I are watching the try-outs for the Broadway production of Grease. Sandy and Danny are rubbing off on me with their catchy melodies. But better than Grease is the enjoyment we've had over our annual Cake Walk. It's part of the winter carnival at the preschool my daughter attends. We made a carousal cake...then my father-in-law won a penguin cake (and it was the week of his birthday)! Then I made a train cake for my brother's birthday. Yeah, I'm lovin' it!

Toot....toot.....

Writing Exercise #4 - Add to the Drama

I'm working on creating a scenario to work on adding to the drama...or the suspense. The suggested exercise was to write the paragraph before finding a dead person (yuck!) So instead I'm using a baby. Like a baby that could potentially be left, but still not an ideal find none-the-less. The goal is to attract the reader to the paragraph to follow, making her want to skip ahead, and holding her to the paragraph by virtue of interest. Ok, here goes...

The house was dark except the light in the entryway. Avery suspected Jackie left it on to welcome them home. Yet she didn't feel welcomed--she was uneasy. There was some unsettling sense that Jackie wouldn't have gone to bed this early. The baby would need another feeding before they could both fall asleep. Newborns sleep a lot, don't be foolish. The relief Avery induced was shortlived as the garage door opened to two empty stalls. Jackie didn't have a carseat for Jillian yet, and she couldn't take the baby anywhere without one. Jackie wouldn't leave Jillian there sleeping. No. Jackie was a teen mom, but she wouldn't dream of something like that. She couldn't.

That's that...give your own paragraphs a try! How could this paragraph be improved???

After-Christmas Arrangement

These centerpieces were created with post-holiday sale items like ribbons & candy canes. The inside is made from a tin can, so the actual price point per arrangement is $10.16 including the carnations. Spray snow was used to lightly touch the flowers and coat the glass beads. Best part was they were used for A Time for Two....a gathering with couples to celebrate their marriages! The musical selection happened to be one of our favorites from our wedding ceremony.

The Gift Lyrics - by Collin Raye

Winter snow is falling down, children laughing all around.
Lights are turnin' on, like a fairy tale come true.

Sitting by the fire we made, you're the answer when I prayed I would find some one, and baby I found you.

And all I want is to hold you forever.
All I need is you more everyday.
You saved my heart from being broken apart,
you gave your love away,
and I'm thankful everyday for the gift.

Watching as you softly sleep,what I'd give if I could keep
just this moment, it only time stood still.
But the colors fade away, and the years will make us gray,
but baby in my eyes, you'll still be beautiful.

All I want is to hold you forever.
All I need is you more everyday.
You saved my heart from being broken apart.
You gave your love away,
and I'm thankful everyday.
Can't find the words to say thank you for the gift.

Little Red Nose

Our family was intending to see this very fun man for New Year's Eve. From 3 years ago, we did not remember his name, so for First Night Sioux Falls, unfortunately for us, he wasn't the scheduled clown. We had very real sad faces! However, this inspired me to find his show, and I'm delighted to share Chris's website, where there is an opportunity to receive his newsletter in the mail! A clown popping up in my mail box - I love it! http://www.littlerednose.com/About%20UsCG.html

Writing Exercise #3 - A Place to Write

After you're through imagining and plotting (the fun part!) The time comes to sit down and put it to paper. This task is daunting because it means trying to take the great ideas floating around in your head and making them everything you've hoped for! Curious thing is how revision makes that happen so much more than we think it can.

This holiday season I've been reading Bookends by Liz Curtis Higgs.
To think this wonderful Christmassy book was crafted in this adorable writing loft...isn't it cute? As much as we need the place and space to write, we need to go their frequently. This time needs to be scheduled if your life so demands it. So while you're working on getting your writing space just how you like it, organizing for 2007, grab a copy of Bookends for next Thanksgiving!

Magazines dole out the best!

Midwest Living this month features 20 of their top recipes. It was so exciting! I am going to make their cinnamon roll recipe and pumpkin pie. Not all in the same day, of course! I did jaunt over to their website as well to see what it was like www.midwestliving.com. They featured more recipes including Superbowl serving ideas. I ended up finding a peanut butter dip I think the little munchkins of the house would enjoy. 57 total recipes listed!

You're in Mint Condition!

Awhile ago, my four-year-old came up with a great idea. Months before my birthday was even close to rolling around she said, "Mom, you like mint, you should have a mint party."

Normally we do not indulge adults in our family with themed birthday parties, but I liked the thought so much and wanted to honor her creativity that I jumped on it, "That's a great idea!"

I made some mint cookies. A friend bought me a bag of the new mint Hershey's kisses. My kids made a sweet birthday pie. Thought we had it covered. But to my surprise, my family showed up with about 20 different kinds of mint goodies at a coffee shop to throw a surprise birthday party. I was so set up!


So, here's the pie in process. There were three steps to making my treasured mint pie. The final product tasted really good, but round one sent a kiddo in tears when the first crust got neglected.

(I came home as they were working on the pudding!) Two versions of the finished product posted...the carefully prepared recipe from Pillsbury.com at top (it's the Creamy Chocolate-Mint Pie), and the kid-plastered Andes original!

What a gift of love!

Behind the Scenes - January's Knitting Purls, Etc. Magazine

Projects galore welcomed me into the group of women coined "The Knitting Purls." I totally loved everything I saw. The baby hats and prayer shawls were just the beginning! Handmade scarves and purses were absolutely beautiful. There were so many varieties of yarn and color choices that added to each piece.

I was so jazzed after their interview, I went home to complete the mittens I had begun to crochet for my daughter. They turned out great! The pattern was fairly simple for a beginner, and the soft yarn does feel great. And just in time for Christmas, too!

Saturday's Scrabble

Thought it was cute I used my Scrabble mug with our Scrabble game last night! I didn't plan it that way, so it was especially fun!

I went to take a picture of the combination and grabbed the camera. But the memory card was still in the computer - duh!

My hubby offered to go downstairs and get it for me to document our moment. In return, I presented my thanks...

Crabby Day?

It was a blast to pull out our imitation crab meat and prepare eight crab cakes for lunch today. I knew my husband would not enjoy them (and hence his identical-eating-habit daughter), but my two-year-old son loved them. Yeah! Little Sierra did enjoy scraping the ingredients into the bowl and using the chopper. She pretty much made them herself. Pretty good for four-years-old! Mom was proud.

Funny part came about as Sierra was struggling to finish her last 12 bites. Yes, that would be after bite number one. Dad asked if we were having crab cakes because we had all been crabby. Sierra responded, "So if we're happy, do we get cake?" She must have figured out that would get to be too much cake because she expressed, "Cake is just for birthdays." Either way, probably not too healthy. But, if you have the inclination to get crabby...here's the recipe I found:

Things You'll Need to make Crab Cakes--

2 c. fine fresh bread crumbs
1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper - to taste
1/3 c. cornmeal
2 lbs. crabmeat
4 large eggs
2 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
1 tsp. paprika
1/4 c. minced fresh parsley
1/2 tsp. salt - to taste
6 tbsp. sour cream
1/2 stick unsalted butter - melted
1/2 c. vegetable oil (for frying)
1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce

Instructions
STEP 1: Whisk together melted butter, lightly beaten eggs, sour cream, minced Italian parsley, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt and cayenne pepper in a large bowl.
STEP 2: Add crab meat and bread crumbs very gently.
STEP 3: Form 1/2-cup measures of the mixture into 12 cakes, each 3/4 inch thick, and transfer them to a baking sheet sprinkled with half of the corn meal.
STEP 4: Sprinkle the crab cakes with the remaining corn meal and chill, covered in plastic wrap, for at least 1 hour.
STEP 5: Preheat oven to 200 degrees F.
STEP 6: Heat the oil over moderately high heat in a large, heavy skillet until hot but not smoking.
STEP 7: Sauté the cakes, in batches, until golden, about 3 to 4 minutes on each side. Don't crowd the pan.
STEP 8: Transfer the cakes to paper towels.

Cudos to MOPS Moms

I don't exactly love the acroynm MOPS, standing for Mothers of Preschoolers, but we do get in a lot of cleaning with young children!

Two women I have participated in MOPS with were featured in a Keloland story about returning to work after staying at home. I loved how Keloland addressed the courage it takes to shift into a different arena - but I would venture to say it takes almost as much courage to stay at home.

After hearing their stories and considering how it does take some time to re-adjust, I was curious to read "Trading Places: Researcher Sylvia Ann Hewlett on the challenges confronting at-home moms who want to revive their careers." It was a Newsweek article and on-line I was even surprised to see they "rate" their stories. So, I would give each of these stories 4 stars (okay five!)
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/14895681/site/newsweek/?GT1=8506 is the link for the Newsweek article...
http://www.keloland.com/NewsDetail6162.cfm?Id=25,52595 is the link for the Keloland article...

And one last cudo for MOPS...it has helped me network with moms who are in the same parenting stage as I am. Sioux Falls hosts groups meeting in the day and in the evening. MOPS provides opportunities to help out with the planning of the program each meeting. This is one way I've found helps me to keep the fear of trying something new at bay. Besides the care of my family, it allows me to help other moms build up their homes and personal interests. Mops.org hosts the incredible organization!

The Quest for Authentic Womanhood

This post was inspired by my husband's comments as he processed one of his "Quests for Authentic Manhood" classes. We celebrated an early Christmas, and he had received a much-needed new pair of shoes. Chad started to explain one of the challenges presented for their manhood quest was to take care of what you need to take care of. (Women, does this sound remotely familiar?) For example, if you need a new pair of pants, go buy a pair of pants. My response was simply, "But I like shopping for you." To which he said, "But at least I could tell you what I need." So, in some twisted way, I felt very guilty for his overdue slip on the shoes! My deal was simply waiting for the good deal! And we succeeded by finding these priceless wonders at an outlet store...for I can't remember how much??

My creative energies these days (Part 1 of the authentic woman) are steered towards completing some crocheted mittens. I found the website www.crochetandknitting.com where I spotted a pattern that looked do~able. This was after a second crash course from Grandma over our holiday festivities. As far as my hubbie's manhood...those resources can be found at www.mensfraternity.com. The second series of classes will be starting soon, and perhaps a new round next fall. By that time, he should look like a brand new man! Maybe I should schedule a date night, too, right?!

Freespirit has Spirit

Meredith Johnson's illustrations is what lured me to books done by Freespirit Publishing. Since this discovering, I have since found creative products for developing character and encouraging positive traits in our kids.

Freespirit's Mission is described as follows:
Free Spirit is the leading publisher of learning tools that support young people’s social and emotional health. Everyday life presents many challenges for kids, from home to school to the wider world. No matter how many choices and changes young people face, our mission of 22+ years remains the same: to help children and teens think for themselves, succeed in life, and make a difference in the world. Based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Free Spirit Publishing is known for its unique understanding of what kids want (and need) to know to navigate life successfully.

They send out a catelog approximately every quarter and have a comprehensive website as well! It's great work.

Writing Exercise #2 - Catchy Titles

In October's issue of Bookpage (reviews books distributed nationwide...and found in Sioux Falls libraries monthly), the titles of the books really struck me. The titles caused enough curiousity that I researched the books. Some of them I found interesting, and some titles were not so indicative of the content inside, and I was disappointed. Take a gander at these titles, keeping in mind what sparks your interest to dig into an article or larger work. Also check out Bookpage's contest to win books each month at Bookpage.com. This month's prize winners win biographies and movies of classic movie stars!

Something about these titles....

"I am Pangoo the Penguin" by Satomi Ichikawa
"Library Lion" by Michelle Knudsen
"Grayson" by Lynne Cox
"Teeth in a Pickle Jar" by H.B. Milligan

Three out of the four titles I would read!!! Can you guess which ones? Now that you've analyzed titles, reflect on your own. Do you use the first title to come to your mind, or do you make sure you've chosen something clever? Stretch yourself with your titles...ahh, that feels good!

Behind the Scenes - December's Santa Collector, Etc. magazine

From Sandy Christopherson's collection, these holiday Santa's show one of the metallic Santa's Sandy has found. The other is a decorated bobbin!

In one website, Reasonstobelieve.com, there are several different kinds of Santa's available. One that surprised me was a wood-carved Santa, as well as the Santa trivia and history.

These decorations are motivating me to start holiday thinking...shopping...and organizing! Yes, organizing. My favorite thing to do on that end is to make a spreadsheet, keeping track of the gifts I've found. Then, I can refer back to an individual to see how I'm doing on their gift collection, making sure it's varied and there are some unique items. We are having an early celebration with my Snowbird grandparents (they jaunt down to Texas every winter) in two weeks. That gives me an excuse to start early, and I'll take it--that's for sure!

6 Rules Guys wished Girls knew

I was reminded as we are taking notes from Children Change a Marriage by Elisa Morgan & Carol Kuykendall how helpful and hilarious it truly is! Each chapter has several marriage mobalizers that are really funny. Take, for example, the list of six rules guys wished girls knew. I couldn't resist laughing at them, knowing I'm guilty of every single one! Here they are...

6 Rules guys wished girls knew

1. Shopping is not a sport.
2. Learn to work the toilet seat, if it’s up, put it down.
3. Anything you wear is fine. Really.
4. Ask for what you want. Subtle hints don’t work
5. A headache that lasts for sixteen days is a problem. See a doctor.
6. Anything we said six or eight months ago is inadmissible in an argumentYou can either ask us to do something or tell us how you want it done—not both.

On the serious side though, I am so impressed with this book I am giving it to my sister-in-law who has a new baby boy, and I will use it as a door prize at the date night at our church we are involved in planning. I think I will even add my two cents on Amazon. It's a wonderful treasure.

Writing Exercise #1 - Decription

My daughter's declared her first favorite author...Robert Munsch! To his honor, I would like to dedicate this first writing exercise. What I noticed in More Pies! was how Mr. Munsch embodied each of his grown-up characters in the pie eating contest with multiple-hued faces. One was GREEN, one was BLUE and then there was PURPLE! It got me thinking about colors and their unusual uses. Explore your color capabilities. Choose some colors and see where the story leads you!

Raspberry...
Fushia...
Key lime... (I can tell it's close to dinner...)

Good Tips

A few good tips could really go together well to make a nice article... For starters, choose fashionable coats and glasses as they are often the "externals" of our dress giving our first impression. Second, for moms, please carry an extra pair of socks in your purse, vehicle, somewhere so that when you are near a play land your child can play without paying $3.00 for a pair of overpriced socks!

Don't get my wrong, I am grateful for these dear little socks, but if you want to be prepared for all life's little emergencies, they're available for $1.00 on Ebay. It would be a great momento of a love token for my kids.

Beginnings

The beginning of a new blog strikes me as a second phase in a vast communicative effort. Looking for various resources to make it a complete representation of the work and creativity in progress...thus spurring on other writers, readers and kin.