LadyD Books

Great Indian Chiefs

2012-05-25T04:58:00.001-07:00

Chief Keokuk Cloud

Nature Hike Trail

Keoluk was the head chief of the Sauk and Fox nation at the time of the Black Hawk War in 1832. Unlike Chief Black Hawk, who was a man of direct action and straightforward speech, Keokuk was a subtle political manipulator.

Cactus and Sage Brush

Keokuk opposed a war with the white man, because he knew that his people would surely lose. He convinced his followers not to join Black Hawk in battle.

Nearby Waterhole

Instead, he tried to gain the favor of the government by keeping his people at peace. He told his followers what would happen to the Sauk and Fox nation in the event of war with the Americans.

Signs of Water Evaporation

Page 56 (Book Meme)

"In a contest where our numbers are so unequal to theirs we must ultimately fail. All we can reasonably expect or hope is to wreak our vengeance upon their hated heads, and fall, when fall we must, with our faces to the enemy."

-- Great Indian Chiefs by Bellerophon Books

Chief Keokuk

Foto Friday: 2 Subjects Theme

Just having a 'lil fun with my readers.

LadyD Books is participating with the following Friday memes:

InLinkz.com

Thinking of all our military heroes at this time. Wishing you and yours a relaxing Memorial Day weekend.

Best,

“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis

Blog Tour and Review: Superluke Faces His Bully

2012-05-23T05:18:00.002-07:00

For ages 7-12

How would you like to feel brave and strong?

"Have you ever been bullied? Or maybe you have bullied someone. If you have never been either of these, I’ll bet that you have witnessed someone being bullied.

If we listen to and see bad things, it can make us mean and scared. The things I see and hear are like spiritual food that can change my attitude. God doesn't want His children hurt by bullies.

"SuperLuke Faces His Bully", the second in the GiggleHeart Adventures series, takes us on a journey into the heart of a bully. It then explores how to handle the bully from a Biblical perspective." Giggleheart.com

Super Luke Faces His Bully is a fun loving adventure spoken straight from the heart of a super-sweet eight-year-old bully victim, Luke Giggleheart. The Word of God is used as a lens to examine some of the issues that can make a person act like either a bully or a victim. During this adventure, Luke, our tender-hearted bully victim, learns about fear, being courageous and getting adults to help, while praying for his enemies.

http://www.pumpupyourbook.com

Dr. Jackie C. Cogswell

Dr. Jackie Chirco Cogswell is a family physician, wife, mother, former school teacher, and author of a series of Christian children’s novels, the GiggleHeart™ Adventure Series. As a Christian mother, the issue of bullying became personal to her when her son was bullied at school. Through the many struggles her son had with bullies, Dr. Jackie learned from firsthand experience how to tackle bullying from a Biblical perspective. “Super Luke Faces His Bully” was inspired by her son’s personal struggle and the good Lord Who equips us for every battle and gives us strength.”

Excerpt:

"That day, my bully left me with a humongous problem. Ever since I was two years old I wanted to be a superhero. In fact, I used to stand in front of the mirror in my diaper, squeezing my muscles hoping they would someday be strong enough to turn me into a real super dude. Now that I have strong muscles and a cool cape, I love playing Super Luke and saving my friends and family from big bad bullies. But after getting stuffed into my locker, I know that it takes a lot more than a good looking cape, a superhero name and big muscles to make me strong and brave! Learning how to be a real superhero is a major growing pain." -- Page 13

My Review

I give kudos to Dr. Jackie C. Cogswell for writing a subject that is so relevant for today and greatly needed to assist young people. When I picked up this book, I was expecting a story more like the last one. Then I kept reading and soon discovered that this was over the top! The author did an excellent job; another beautiful book from Jackie. Valuable websites listed in the end notes for more information on bullying.

I enjoyed the character of Luke Michael Giggleheart, a sweet and shy 8-year-old boy and his friend Mario Martinez. Luke is not too sure how to handle the school bully Harry Jones, also known as Bulldog Jones, who is a mean 10-year-old.

The story begins with Luke experiencing one of his biggest fears, being stuffed inside a school locker by the local bully. Along the way, Luke meets a lion, a tiger and an angel with much excitement from dreams to pictures in his head, like a TV screen, where everything gets recorded. Then one day Luke becomes very brave and strong; finding his identity, purpose and value in Jesus.

This is a great book with a wonderful message, teaching on repentance and grace, connecting with God's heart, and having joy. I will be adding it to my "favorites." I highly recommend this one to all kids who have had an encounter with a bully at school, on the bus or in your neighborhood. Learn what the Bible says about fear, lying, attitudes and bullies in a super-fun and giggly way!

***** stars!

You may be interested in reading my review of the author's first book, A Heart Ready to Fly! (GiggleHeart #1)

Giveaway!

Dr. Jackie C. Cogswell will be giving one lucky winner a print copy of Super Luke Faces His Bully as well as a print copy of A Heart Ready to Fly! To enter, please fill out the Rafflecopter form below. U.S. addresses only, please. Giveaway Form

Thanks Cheryl Malandrinos for the opportunity to review this very cool book.

“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis

Wordless Wednesday: Dancing Girls

2012-05-22T17:25:00.000-07:00

For Rednesday, Wordless Wednesday, Outdoor Wednesday.

These sweet girls danced at our Avocado Festival; oh so lovely!

InLinkz.com

“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis

The Blossom and The Bee

2012-05-19T05:40:00.003-07:00

For Pink Saturday

It's always nice to see the flamingos by the water. Aren't they amazing?! So flexible and elegant, like Yoga Pretzels! I just love the beauty of birds, surrounded with water reflections.

The Dahlia Citrus Label was part of a collection at our local library. Each citrus label was framed in glass, mounted on the wall, with overhead lights on. It was a bit challenging to take a picture without getting the glass reflection. This one is pretty in pink, although a bit blurred.

I gave this quilt to one of my daughters who likes stars. Always nice to curl up with a warm quilt and read a good book or take a nap coming home from the Safari Park.

For Quote It Saturday and For Flowers on Saturday

"A bee is never as busy as it seems; it's just that it can't buzz any slower." Kin Hubbard

"Aerodynamically, the bumble bee shouldn't be able to fly, but the bumble bee doesn't know it so it goes on flying anyway. " Mary Kay Ash

I love the elegance and flow of this flower, Wild Sweet Pea. We have them in our yard. I came upon the blossom with the bee at the Safari Park in San Diego and took this photo with my Nikon D200.

Have a wonderful weekend and a great week ahead!

InLinkz.com

Blessings,

“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis

Take a Road Trip with a Twist

2012-05-18T04:44:00.000-07:00

For Skywatch Friday

All of the above photos were taken with my point and shoot camera from the car window. We were just passing through the Central Valley in California, headed towards Woodland. Indeed, it is an enormous valley, with tons of grape vineyards, nut groves and cattle. The only thing that is missing is water and the lack of it.

For Foto Friday

The photo theme this week is "feathers or fur." I recently posted beautiful red and blue parrots for Wordless Wednesday. Today's photo is another bird pic from the Safari Park. Love the graceful body and neck, adorned with royal plumage!

The Page 56 Freda's Book Meme

"The next time you take off on a family trip, why not take a covered wagon instead of a car? Or do a bike tour, with no car involved? You could even go on foot and have a llama carry your stuff for you."

-- 101 things you gotta do before you're 12! Joanne O'Sullivan

Some Inspiration For Your Vacation:

1. LLAMA TREK
2. FAMILY LEARNING VACATION
    (art, music, sailing, archeology or horseback riding)
3. ROOTS TRIP
    (places where your ancestors came from)
4. VOLUNTEER TRIP
    (help save turtles, rebuild a trail)
5. ECO VACATION
    (rain forest, Everglades, coral reef, the Arctic)
6. COVERED WAGON TRIP
7. CLIPPER SHIP CRUISE
8. FARM STAY OR DUDE RANCH

Next road trip, when I'm not on a time crunch, I think I'll step outside the car and take some photos with the Nikon D200! lol

LadyD Books is participating in the following memes:

InLinkz.com

“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis

Wordless Wednesday: Talking Parrots

2012-05-16T06:34:00.001-07:00

I have always loved the sights and sounds of the rainforest. For Mother's Day, we went to the San Diego Safari Park and discovered these beautiful parrots as we were leaving the park. I'm so glad I brought along my Nikon D200. We had a wonderful, relaxing day with the animals. I just love birds. Do you?

Photos For: Rednesday, Outdoor Wednesday and Wordless Wednesday! These colorful birds remind me of the children's picture book, The Parrot Tico Tango.

InLinkz.com

“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis

Quote It Saturday: Mama's Lullaby

2012-05-12T05:42:00.002-07:00

"Epi" in bloom for Mother's Day!"

As I made a turn around the corner, I was greeted with my epiphyllum cactus in bloom. Wow, it seems so special and just right for Flowers on Saturday and Pink Saturday.

Epiphyllum leaves are broad and the flower colors are a wonderful variety to see. They are a majestic orchid cacti when in bloom and an ordinary cactus in between blooms.

I'm headed out the door for the Safari Park in San Diego. How my grandson loves to see the animals. I'll bring my Nikon D200 along because one never knows what I might find. It's a huge park and one of my favorites that I visit often.

For Quote It Saturday

Mama's Lullaby

Written By: Grace Hall
French Folk Song

Baby dear, Mama's here,
Watching o'er your slumber.
Dream, my child, until the dawn
Wakes the daisies on the lawn.

Dream you float in a boat,
Under starry heavens;
Dream of brooks and singing birds,
Scented breezes, tender words.

Dream of all, great and small,
Things serene and lovely;
Fairies, lambs, and butterflies,
Sleepy clouds in summer skies.

Sleep all night, in my sight,
Though you're off in dreamland;
Then, tomorrow, with the sun,
Back to Mama, little one!

My daughters and I, wish you a Happy Mother's Day surrounded with love!

MOTHER'S LULLABY

Sleep, baby, sleep,
Your daddy's away,
Sleep, baby, sleep,
And mommy will pray,
Pray for your daddy
Who sails on the sea,
Pray while I'm rocking
His babe on my knee;
May breezes blow gently
Where'er he may be,
And blow him home safely
To you and to me;
Safely, safely,
To you and to me,
To you and to me.

Sleep, baby, sleep,
Your daddy's away,
Sleep, baby, sleep,
And mommy will pray,
Pray all the night
Through the sea's sullen roar,
Pray while I'm watching
And weeping so sore;
But there's daddy's voice
Coming up from the shore,
And now you and I
Are weeping no more,
Now you and I
Are weeping no more,
Are weeping no more.

Written By: Dr. Blatherwick
Music By: Virginia Gabriel

Photo Credit: Rebekah Failla and Artie Romero

Blessings,

“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis

InLinkz.com

Anaconda Sky

2012-05-11T06:15:00.000-07:00

I know, snakes don't have legs! lol This photo was taken from my view with my Nikon 220 that I'm getting familiar with.

Remember looking up at the sky, wondering about the clouds?

One of my favorite things to do as a child was to get real dizzy, then lay on the grass and look up at cloud formations. Now that I'm all grown up, I imagine this "anaconda went walking!"
Skywatch Friday

Page 56

"I was at my bedroom table with a notebook open wide, when a giant anaconda started winding up my side..."

-- Poems by Jack Prelutsky
Page 56 Meme

Here's the entire poem. I think it's pretty cute!

A Remarkable Adventure

I was at my bedroom table
with a notebook open wide,
when a giant anaconda
started winding up my side,
I was filled with apprehension
and retreated down the stairs,
to be greeted at the bottom
by a dozen grizzly bears.

We tumultuously tussled
till I managed to get free,
then I saw, with trepidation,
there were tigers after me,
I could feel them growing closer,
I was quivering with fear,
then I blundered into quicksand
and began to disappear.

I was rescued by an eagle that descended from the skies
to embrace me with its talons,
to my terror and surprise,
but that raptor lost its purchase
when a blizzard made me sneeze,
and it dropped me in a thicket
where I battered both my knees.

I was suddenly surrounded
by a troop of savage trolls,
who maliciously informed me
they would toast me over coals,
I was lucky to elude them
when they briefly looked away--
that's the reason why my homework
isn't here with me today.

Such a cute poem. If you have sons or grandsons like me, you're always checking their pockets before you do the wash!

Thinking of all my online friends and wishing you a Happy Sunday for Mother's Day, which is each and every day with all the "mothering" that you do!

Blessings,

“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis

InLinkz.com

Review: Super Mario Luigi Costume

2012-05-09T13:36:00.001-07:00

If you're like my grandchildren, it's fun to play dress up anytime of the year. We have a special box for play time fashion items. Then there's the special season in the fall when the children think about who they want to dress up like for Halloween and they pretend to be their favorite character.

Recently, I was thrilled when Christie Lee contacted me from www.AnytimeCostumes.com , asking me to write a review for one their products and I said "Yes!" It makes perfect sense to me when you're a grandmother of four, from ages 6, 4, 2 and 18 months. Here's some interesting points I learned about this company that I wanted to share with you.

My Review

I had shared with my grandson one day that I had ordered his Halloween costume; the one he chose online at Anytime Costumes for boys He was so excited and just couldn't wait for its arrival. You can imagine the excitement! First impressions mean everything, especially for a new shopper, in hopes that they will like what they see and return as a satisfied customer. What I found with Anytime Costumes was more than I hoped for.

Here are 5 top reasons to shop with them:

1. Reliable company since 1954.
2. Fast delivery service.
3. Great customer service.
4. Variety of choices and sizes for everyone.
5. Reasonable, affordable prices.

My 4 year old grandson chose the Super Mario Luigi Costume. His favorite color is green and he loves the character. I found the company website to be fast loading and easy to navigate through. We clicked on the tab, "Kids Costumes", went to the Boys Section and then headed over to the TV & Movie section. The "Child Deluxe Super Mario Bros" cost is $34.99

I chose the small size (4-6) and noticed that there were helpful size charts and more additional information to help one make the right decision for their particular needs. I was pleasantly surprised at all that goes into the making of a successful children's Halloween costume, mostly the spectacular details in the accessories.

For instance, in Super Mario the kit includes a hat, mustache, jumpsuit with an attached shirt and gloves. The fun part begins here with an inflatable belly. Overall, this is an awesome Halloween costume, the real deal as an officially licensed Nintendo costume. It's comfortable to wear, easy to put on so your movements are uninhibited. Overall, I am so pleased with everything about this company. It sure beats the alternative of shopping for a small selective costume, hoping to get the right size and a good price, in a retail store. Thanks Anytime Costumes! We really love the costume!

If you are searching the web for adult, child, mascot and pet costumes, plus wigs, masks and makeup, visit www.AnytimeCostumes.com

For Rednesday

Happy Wednesday!

“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis

Book Review: Ida Louise and The Lucky Sweater

2012-05-01T07:00:00.000-07:00

Ida Louise and The Lucky Sweater

About The Book

Ida Louise lives on a strawberry farm with her grandparents and Poochie Pat le D-O-Gee, her snowy white puppy. The farm is in Norway, land of fjords and lush valleys where Ida Louise and Poochie Pat like to play. Ida Louise doesn t always feel confident, but when she wears the sweater Grandpa brought her from one of his trips to another town, she feels very special.

When Grandpa takes her to the art museums, Ida Louise allows her imagination to transport her to the places and times she sees in the paintings. On the wall in her room she has a framed postcard of her favorite painting, a valley of beautiful flowers.

While playing in the valley one day Poochie Pat and Ida Louise find one unusual flower blooming. She has only seen flowers like this one in her favorite painting and wonders how it came to grow in her valley. She names the lone red flower Mystic Rosie Petal de la Fjord and they become friends, for Ida Louise discovers this flower talks! Mystic Rosie was sad that no other flower looked like her. She wondered how she grew in this valley and where her family lived. Mystic Rosie, Ida Louise and Poochie Pat set off on a trip to look for other flowers like Mystic Rosie. Ida Louise was confident they would find Mystic Rosie s home, because she was wearing her lucky sweater and wonderful things happen when Ida Louise wears her lucky sweater.

After a long walk and some help along the way, the travelers find the valley depicted in Ida Louise s favorite painting. Flowers just like Mystic Rosie were blooming everywhere. They meet Mystic Rosie s grandparents and learn her parents no longer live because their section of the valley had been fenced in for sheep to graze. Ida Louise comforts her friend telling her she doesn t need parents to feel loved, she just needs friends. On their way back through the nearby town Ida Louise sees several girls wearing sweaters like hers and begins to understand it wasn t the sweater that was special, it was Ida Louise, herself.

Julie Augensen's charming story insures an enjoyable read-aloud experience for child and adult. As the paintings in the art museums awaken Ida Louise s imagination, Cartalya Davis vivid illustrations of life and landscape in Norway invite the reader into the story. Learn how Ida Louise solves the mystery of how Mystic Rosie came to grow in her valley. Ida Louise s story serves as an engaging introduction to Norway and to the world of art. Children and adults alike will have their own adventure when they visit an art museum or library together to learn more about art and Norway.

My cousin just returned from a trip to the Huntington Library where he saw the Children’s Garden, the Rose Garden, the big glass-domed Conservatory, and the main mansion holding the European art collection. He saw some special exhibits such as Greene and Greene Craftsman furniture, and the special exhibit “Visions of Empire, The Quest for a Railroad Across America, 1840-1880.” But the best sight was the portrait gallery, part of the European art display. This is where the famous Blue Boy and Pinkie paintings are. I'm so glad he had this wonderful experience. Have you been to a museum?

My Thoughts, My Review

Beautifully written book by Julie, taking readers on an amazing journey of beauty, imagination, discovery and inspiration. I especially like the main character, Ida who lives in a valley of the fjord in Noway by a strawberry farm. I love the small town feel and can almost smell the Mystic Rosie that is wonderfully described and illustrated. In the beginning, 10 year old Ida has a few doubts about herself but with a magic sweater, her confidence soars with the love and support of friends and the confidence in herself to help Mystic Rosie find her family.

I really do think a lot of people, of all ages, would like this story. I loved it and it was everything I was hoping for and more. ***** stars!

The author, Julie Augensen lives with her husband, son and two cats in the Tampa, Florida area where she entertains children with her delightful stories. Julie Augensen's charming story insures an enjoyable read-aloud experience for child and adult. Ida Louise and The Lucky Sweater is her first book.

The illustrator, Cartalya Davis lives in Tampa, Florida where she graduated with a degree in computer animation.

For more information, visit the author's site, www.JulieAugensen

Julie's book publisher, www.Fatherson.com

Kind Regards,

“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis

Seagull Flight

2012-04-28T07:27:00.000-07:00

A lovely walk on the coastline of a nearby beach.

“The seagull sees farthest who flies highest” Proverb Quote

“One meteorologist remarked that if the theory were correct, one flap of a seagull's wings would be enough to alter the course of the weather forever” Konrad Lorenz

Happy Pink Saturday!

Flowers on Saturday: Cecile Brunner Rose

I really enjoyed our outing to the coast to experience the view of the horizon, smelling the sea breeze and seeing these charming pink buildings in a row. Setting the camera on C1 was a rapid fire multi-shot, so I was able to catch some birds in flight. How I loved returning home to the peace of the land and gazing at the lovely springtime pink roses.

Whatever you choose to do for your weekend, enjoy it all!

Best Regards,

“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis

InLinkz.com

Cheetah Sky

2012-04-27T05:26:00.000-07:00

A few days ago we had a tropical rain storm coming up from the south. I was able to grab this shot before the warm winds from Mexico arrived in San Diego, bringing us 1/2 inch of water. All the trees (avocado, palm, jacaranda and oak) rejoice when free water arrives! I'm a wanna-be-photographer but if you have the time, visit some great professional pics at Skywatch Friday.

This week Lori is having an angle theme over at Foto Friday. I learn so much from the participants. My grandson and I went on a nature walk with his magnifying glass. The view is from our neighbor's south side of his property. You can see by the cloud cover how the sky has changed. It's amazing what a fast internet connection we have, surrounded by all these overhead power lines. Do you have them where you are?

Freda has a book meme that I enjoy following, The Friday 56. Currently I'm reading a very informative book from our local library, Built For Speed: The Extraordinary, Enigmatic Cheetah by Sharon Elaine Thompson.

"When a mother cheetah first takes her cubs hunting, they don't understand the process. Learning what to chase and what not to chase takes a while."

Built for Speed: The Extraordinary, Enigmatic Cheetah (Discovery)

A most unusual cat, Cheetahs live throughout the open plains of central and southern Africa. A cheetah's body is ideally suited for high-speed chases. The cheetah is the world's fastest land animal, running at speeds of up to 70 miles per hour. They are 'Born to Run'.

Purring is primarily a social sound. Cats purr when they are interacting peacefully with each other, or with humans. This is a picture of 'Purr-fect Contentment'.

Author Sharon E. Thompson's Epilogue:

"Although cheetahs are threatened by predators, humans, disease, lack of genetic diversity and poor fertility, there is hope that they will survive. As understanding and appreciation of cheetahs grow, people will want to ensure that the world's fastest animal does not run into extinction."

I liked this book very much and enjoyed reading about the 'Lifestyles of the Swift and Famous'.

“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis

InLinkz.com

Wordless Wednesday: Red Letter Day

2012-04-25T05:21:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day is just around the corner and I was thinking about how cards mean so much to so many folks, especially in their time of need. Everyone likes to get something in the mail or by email. If you're a crafty person, then you'll be able to design and create your finished product with so many scrap booking supplies and digital resources that are available. I like My Memories and CollageIt.

Here are a few special sites that offer free fonts, clip art, etc. that are popular amongst bloggers. I enjoy seeing these wonderful, creative blogs and gleaning some useful tips for my projects.

http://starsunflowerstudio.blogspot.com

http://quillcottage.blogspot.com

http://graphicsfairy.blogspot.com

Do you have a crafting website that is a favorite of yours? I enjoy visiting this site in my free time and you'll find a very pretty homemade Mother's Day card at The Crafting Chicks.

This article that was provided by KCWC, points to an old fashion way of communicating that my mother-in-law and auntie love to give and receive; hand-written letters. Did you know...

April—National Card and Letter Writing Month

Writing the Cards and Letters That Matter Most

By Karen Jordan

National Card and Letter Writing Month is an opportunity for all Americans to rediscover the timeless and very personal art of letter writing. Both in times of peace and conflict, cards and letters are the most effective way to share and permanently record our thoughts, prayers, hopes and dreams. (Postmaster General John E. Potter).

What cards and letters have you held on to over the years? As I looked through my memory box of correspondence, I discovered several categories.

Old Christmas cards
Valentine cards from my husband and children
Letters to my mother, when I first moved away from my hometown
Birthday cards from my husband and children
Thank-you notes
Letters from my husband, when we were apart
"Thinking of you" cards from friends after I moved away
Mother's Day cards from my kids and grandkids

Even though I send few cards and letters now, I still enjoy receiving them. But I’m reconsidering this lost art of letter writing. I know others appreciate receiving them as much as I do. And a few friends and relatives don't communicate online.

I think the following messages would warrant an old-fashioned card or letter.

Thank-you note. I've fallen short with "thank-you" etiquette, but I know most people appreciate a written note of thanks, and many expect it.

Thinking-of-you note. Often it's hard for me to tell people how I feel face-to-face; so, I seem to express myself better by writing them.

Congratulations. I’m always thrilled when I receive blessings from old friends and family.

Love letters. These private notes can become treasured keepsakes for loved ones or even part of our recorded legacy.

Tribute. Words of praise might be difficult to write. But if you sense an expression of gratitude or praise is appropriate, you can be sure that you will find the words you need to express your thoughts.

Reconciliation. Have you written that letter to end a conflict, resolve some differences, or restore a friendship? “The moment you realize God’s purpose, which is to get you rightly related to Himself and then to your fellow men, He will tax the last limit of the universe to help you take the right road. Decide it now—‘Yes, Lord, I will write that letter to-night’; ‘I will be reconciled to that man now’" (Oswald Chambers).

What card or letter will you write today?

Karen Jordan is best known for telling the stories that matter most. She has multiple writing credits and trains other writers as well. Contact her for speaking events, writing assignments, and interviews at kj@karenjordan.net or visit www.karenjordan.net.

Karen has donated this article to be used by CLASSEMINARS to help get the word out about the next CLASS Christian Writers Conference this fall. Karen has attended every year except one, since 2004, and because of her interaction at the conference, she is reaping an expanded network in the writing industry as well as seeing amazing doors opening up for her this year. If you're interested in attending the conference, or would like to hear about their early bird special (expires the end of April), click here for more information: http://bit.ly/H4hMYu/.

"I guess I'll sit right down and write myself a letter!"

Warmly,

“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis

InLinkz.com

Book Review: God Gave Us Love

2012-04-24T11:01:00.000-07:00

Lisa Tawn Bergren and Laura J. Bryant

About This Book

As Little Cub and Grampa Bear’s fishing adventure is interrupted by mischievous otters, the young polar bear begins to question why we must love others…even the seemingly unlovable.

“Any time we show love, Little Cub, we’re sharing a bit of his love.”

In a sturdy format, ideal for the littlest hands at storytime, bedtime, or anytime, God Gave Us You assures each child that he or she truly is a treasured gift from the Lord.

My Thoughts:

Another beautiful written story by Lisa Tawn Bergren, takes the reader on a timeless message of unconditional love. Little Cub has lots of questions about how do we really know God loves us and her very wise Grandpa does his best to respond with answers that reflect biblical truths: God always hopes for the best in us; He's always with us; He sent His Son to save us.

I loved the warm illustrations by Laura J. Bryant, especially the family of polar bears "group hug". I love Biblical stories, especially when a great author can bring them to life. Lisa Tawn Bergen does a good job explaining that God is love and we can see His love expressed in so many different ways, especially with family. I rate the book with 5 stars!

This sweet board book makes an excellent gift and is available for $6.99

God Gave Us Love

Lisa Tawn Bergren is a best-selling author of more than thirty books, including The Captain's Bride, The Busy Mom's Devotional, and the God Gave Us children's book series. She and her husband, Tim, live in Colorado Springs, Colorado with their three children.

Author's Site: http://lisatawnbergren.com/

Illustrator's Site: http://laurabryant.com/

I have enjoyed reading Lisa's other children's books in the series, God Gave Us You and God Gave Us Christmas. My reviews are here and here.

Another favorite reading book from this delightful author (and my review) can be viewed, God Gave Us The World.

Lisa has written many amazing works. Take a look at author spotlight. I like her work.

"I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review."

“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis

Blankies and Quilts

2012-04-21T06:59:00.000-07:00

For Flowers on Saturday

In my garden this beautiful deciduous long flowering shrub grows.

For Tina's Weekend Flowers

They are so easy to grow in warm climate, full sun to partial shade.

Quilts, Blankies, Flowers for Pink Saturday

I believe it's called Rose of Sharon, maybe not. So many kinds.

My granddaughter, adorned with polka dots, stripes and leggings, loves her special blanket.

For Quote It Saturday

"The best kind of sleep beneath Heaven above/ Is under a quilt, handmade with love."

Quotes for Hand-Made Quilts

"Blankets wrap you in warmth, quilts wrap you in love."
Quotes About Quilting

Photo Credit: jjulian812

"Blessed are the piecemakers"
"A bed without a quilt is like a sky without stars."

Happy Earth Day!

“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis

InLinkz.com

Bee Hive Sunrise

2012-04-20T06:18:00.003-07:00

Bee Hive Sunrise

On some mornings, I find the sky having a golden glow or golden bronze look. This awesome stack of cloud cover was taken with my Nikon D200 around 5:00 a.m., looking out at Palomar Mountain towards the east. Looks like it's going to be a lovely Spring day with temps in low 80s for sunny Cali.

How is it where you are? For more glorious views, I'm linking with Skywatch Friday.

Protecting The Queen Bee

Around this time of year, especially when the avocado grove is blossoming, we'll hear and look up and see bees swarming. One particular morning, I found this bee hive had landed nearby on my property with one goal in mind... and that was to protect the queen! They were working hard to lay eggs and make honey, too. The photo theme this week is 'texture' and I'm linking with Foto Friday.

For ages 10 and up

Honey. Beeswax. Pollinate. Hive. Colony. Work. Dance. Communicate. Industrious. Buzz. Sting. Cooperate.
Where would we be without them? Where would we be without one another?
In eighty-two poems and paragraphs, Naomi Shihab Nye alights on the essentials of our time—our loved ones, our dense air, our wars, our memories, our planet—and leaves us feeling curiously sweeter and profoundly soothed.

LadyD Books is linking with The Friday 56

"Honeybees have been hauled all over agricultural creation by their owners in wooden hives to pollinate flowers far from the ones they grew up with."

-- Page 56 of Honeybee by Naomi Shihab Nye

A Honeycomb of Caves

Eventually the honeybees took off and this was left behind; a structure of hexagonal cells of wax, made by the bees.

Stop by these fine folks, if you have the time.

InLinkz.com

Have a sweet day!

“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis

Wordless Wednesday: Save The Band

2012-04-18T05:44:00.001-07:00

I live in a small town. These pictures are a small representation of our local high school concert and marching band. What is a marching band? Wikipedia defines it here. I was fortunate to get a few pictures during the Avocado Festival and speak with John P. Lewis, Vice President of the Fallbrook Band Boosters, Inc.

Did you know that many artists have gotten their first break as a student in a school music program? Unfortunately, educational budget cuts constantly threaten to eliminate these valuable programs denying students exposure to music and preventing them from creative release.

Basically, what is happening in our school district is lack of funding with more budget cuts going on. Parents are working so hard to keep the arts alive in the schools. I love California... but my Wordless Wednesday this time means a lot to me and for so many others. I am passionate for the arts. So, please dear community of our local town, please save the band! For more information on how to do that, visit
www.fallbrookhsband.org

I was one of the lucky ones where music was the norm in school. I loved choir and singing competition days in high school. I won a music scholarship to San Diego State and well, you know the rest. Been playing the piano for over 30 years in the churches on worship teams, and have been teaching piano for over 15 years now and love being the music teacher for a kindergarten class. If you want, visit my music sites at http://LadyDpiano.com and http://pianodiana.blogspot.com

Save the band!

Warmly,

“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis

InLinkz.com

Book Review: Kindergarten by Susan Case

2012-04-17T06:10:00.000-07:00

I was so thrilled to learn that I had won this book at a contest
being held at Bern's site, http://www.momto2poshlildivas.com
Being a music teacher for a kindergarten class, I really hoped to experience some insightful tips from the author. This was a dream come true for me! Here's a little snippet from Amazon:

Book Description

Remember the innocent but goofy things you did as a kindergartner? Reminisce about your early years as you learn how to help your precious child become ready for school and have a successful kindergarten year. Are you a kindergarten teacher who needs proven ideas and solutions for your classroom? This book is for parents and teachers of preschoolers and kindergartners. It will make you laugh and give you hundreds of ideas to help with behavior, reading, special education, science experiments, holiday celebrations, and recipes for Fun Fridays and for success. Chapter One: Teacher Tattle Tales Chapter Two: Celebrate the Holidays-Celebrate Life Chapter Three: A Smooth Move to School Chapter Four: Reading-the Greatest Gift of All Chapter Five: Science-Survival Specials Chapter Six: Discipline-Combat Duty or Common Sense Tactics? Chapter Seven: The Special Education Experience Chapter Eight: Silly Sanity Lists Chapter Nine: Recipes for Fun Fridays Chapter Ten: It's a Wonderful World, After All

Meet the fun, loving author, Susan Case

Susan Case is a retired Special Education and kindergarten teacher and the mother of a special needs daughter. She earned a Master of Science degree in Family and Child Development and has teaching certificates in Early Childhood, Special Education and Elementary Education.

My Review

Susan is a beautiful person, with her loving, kind, and caring ways. Susan Case’s writing is touching and inspirational, speaking from her own life's experiences. If anyone is considering becoming a Kindergarten Teacher or has been teaching kindergarten, this is a must-read. I love the book!

Ten chapters moves along at a brisk pace, with exciting tips and tales, hilarious jokes and meaningful quotes woven through many, deep and precious stories from the author's relationship with children and their parents.

If you are a teacher or crafty grandma and parent who loves holidays like me, you'll want to write down recipes and make a list of some valuable links and teacher resources. The book is an excellent addition for your school, church and home library.

I especially loved reading a tender moment about Hugs from Seaver, a book donation project, with tissue in hand. Enough can't be said for teachers who put in long hours serving and are passionate about their profession of teaching, sacrificing and investing in children's lives. You will be rewarded!

An excellent book and I plan to re-read often. Susan has a gift of seeing through a child's perspective and preparing them for their tomorrow. Thank you for sharing these treasures with us, so we may become better teachers.

***** stars!
Kindergarten: Tattle-Tales, Tools, Tactics, Triumphs and Tasty Treats for Teachers and Parents

Warmly,

“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis

Poetic Pink Snapdragons

2012-04-14T07:55:00.000-07:00

Flowers on Saturday

These lovely pink snapdragons come up every spring around the palm tree in my front yard.

THE MEANING & SYMBOLISM OF
snapdragon

Derived from the Greek words “anti,” meaning like, and “rhin,” meaning nose, antirrhinum, the snapdragon’s botanical name, is a fitting description of this snout-shaped flower. It’s said that the common name for this colorful flower comes from the snap it makes when the sides of the “dragon’s mouth” are gently squeezed. While their actual origin is unknown, it’s believed that snapdragons were originally wildflowers in Spain and Italy.
Legend has it that concealing a snapdragon makes a person appear fascinating and cordial, and in the language of flowers, snapdragons are said to represent both deception (perhaps tied to the notion of concealment) and graciousness. http://www.teleflora.com

Pink Saturday

My English Roses are producing abundantly with the April showers we've been having here. A bit unusual for southern Cali but a most welcomed sight, indeed. I've had this tablecloth for years and use it around this time of the year!

Photo Credit: Graphics Fairy

Quote it Saturday

the petulant snapdragon

The Petulant Snapdragon
The snapdragon is
a petulant flower
friendly and gregarious
a little coy
like her velvet neighbour
the pansy
the funny bee balm
finds them likable enough
The elegant delphinium
is almost over now
My dainty sweet peas
begin to climb the trellis
I wonder will they
be pastel pink or blue
In June I enjoyed
the startling irises
And the birds
I have developed
a new love of birds
pastoral pleasures
the quiet life
the joys of nature
simple joys
for the meantme

-- Donna Bamford The Petulant Snapdragon Poem

I'm connecting with the following Saturday memes.

InLinkz.com

Have a lovely weekend. I'll be going to the Avocado Festival and must bring my camera along!

Warmly,

“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis

Wild Wig Sky

2012-04-13T05:31:00.001-07:00

Skywatch Friday

Just the other day, I went outside to walk thru our avocado grove and looked up and saw this stellar cloud display. I thought about the Usborne book I had been glancing through, called The Children's Book of Art by Rosie Dickins. Although this cloud formation looks like an angel greeting me with, "Welcome!", I'm currently reading about Andy Warhol who was born in the U.S. in 1928 and is famous for his bright, stylish prints of everything. I thought of his wig!

When I think of Andy, I immediately recall the famous 'soup can' image. Do you have a favorite?

Book Beginnings http://www.rosecityreader.com

"Art is a vast subject, including all kinds of pictures and sculptures. This book introduces 32 works by some of the world's most famous artists." -- The Children's Book of Art

I am passionate about the arts. Our grandson has an easel and happily paints away on a blank canvas at 4! He expresses himself freely with circles and horizontal lines; such freedom. I love this children's book and how beautiful the introduction is for personal creativity!

Page 56 http://fredasvoice.blogspot.com

"Warhol was fascinated by famous faces and carefully created a celebrity image of his own, wearing a wild white wig to make sure he stood out from other people." -- The Children's Book of Art

Here are some of the artists whose pictures are included in this book:

Leonardo da Vinci
Michelangelo
Jan Vermeer
J.M.W.Turner
Claude Monet
Edgar Degas
Vincent van Gogh
Edvard Munch
Pablo Picasso
Henri Matisse
Georgia O'Keeffe
Jackson Pollock
Andy Warhol

Cover via Amazon

Usborne the Children's Book of Art: Internet Linked

Friday Foto http://photograph4life.blogspot.com

Perspective: Preparing the Soil

Each year, especially right after the rainy season is over, the local farmers start preparing the fields for a huge strawberry patch. I was driving down a back road in the country and pulled out my 'lil point and shoot digital, instead of my Nikon 220. This green tractor was hauling and on the move, bit blurry... I know. He had a full days work ahead of him and I'm sure wanted to get the job ready for "planting time."

LadyD Books is participating in the following memes.

InLinkz.com

“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis

Wordless Wednesday: Sprouting Savvy

2012-04-11T07:12:00.000-07:00

Our granddaughter plants a garden!

Rednesday Hat

Needs of a Seed

What does a seed need to sprout? Most seeds require only three things: food, water and warmth. Seeds can sprout without light but not without warmth. Seeds must have water and food to sprout.

Photo Credit:

Oregon Garden tricycle

johninportland

Sprouting Savvy

You can't trick a sprouting seed. No matter how a seed is planted, the shoot grows upward and the root grows downward. Here's an experiment to do. You'll need a plastic cup, a permanent marker, paper towels, 4 pre-soaked lima bean seeds and water. Here are the steps:

1. Use the marker to draw four equally spaced arrows around the cup, just below the rim. Point one arrow in each of the following directions: up, down, left, right.

2. Press wadded paper towel into the cup, half filling it.

3. Halfway up the cup and below each arrow, tuck a seed between the cup and the wadded paper towel. Position each seed so that its notch points in the same direction as the arrow above it.

4. Press more wadded paper towel into the cup until it is almost filled.

5. Moisten the paper towels with water and then set the seed cup in a warm location.

6. Observe the seeds daily, adding water as needed to keep the paper towels moist.

Like all objects, seeds respond to the earth's gravity. Tiny granules in the shoot orient its growth so that no matter which way a seed is planted, its shoot will ultimately grow upward and its root downward. In fact, plants are so dependent on gravity for direction that when they are placed in special zero-gravity containers, they become confused and grow every which way!

On the Go

Seeds must go to grow; they must leave their parent plants. Additionally, they must land where conditions are right for sprouting. Seeds can travel, including being carried by animals, people, water and the wind.

Eating Seeds

How many seed-related foods have you eaten during the last 24 hours? Include breakfast cereals, breads and cereal grains such as corn, oats, rice and wheat. Then there's peanuts, beans, peas; including apples and watermelons. Mustard, pepper, dill and chocolate are related to seeds, too.

More About Seeds

Here are some informative books to help continue to grow your youngster's knowledge about seeds.

1. How A Seed Grows by Helene J. Jordan

2. From seed to Plant by Gail Gibbons

3. The Dandelion Seed by Joseph Anthony

4. One Bean by Anne Rockwell

Spring is here and I love flowers. Here's a counting game, Planting A Numbers Garden at Mom to 2 Posh Lil Divas

Happy WW!

“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis

InLinkz.com

Book Review: Bow Wow Wiggle Waggle

2012-04-10T14:23:00.003-07:00

Book Description

What begins as a playful game of fetch between a boy and his dog turns into a wild goose chase that springs from one page to the next in this delightful book. Young readers will find themselves caught up in the bright and charming watercolor paintings as they follow the pair on a frolicking escapade, and ultimately, to an endearing reunion.

Product Details

Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Eerdmans Books for Young Readers (August 1, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0802854087
ISBN-13: 978-0802854087

About The Book

I received a folded & gathered advance copy proof for review from LibraryThing. I was thrilled to get my hands on this one and take a peek since I had reviewed one of Mary's books previously, called Uh oh!

My Review

The rhyming text and silly play-on words had me from the beginning. Here's another beautifully written story by Mary that takes the reader on a fun outdoor day with a boy and his dog. I especially like the colorful nature scenes and delightful animals. It's educational and engaging to associate sounds with familiar animals, like a dog and squirrel, plus a kitty and bunny; in addition to giggling over a string of words that come together like a musical phrase. ***** stars!

To learn more about the author, visit her website www.marynewelldepalma.com

Happy Reading!

“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis

Goodness and Love

2012-04-07T06:02:00.000-07:00

Our Garden Lily

How I love the white purity against the deep green leaves. Spring is such a beautiful season and right now every flower is bursting with color on the ranch. If my flowers could talk, it seems they would be saying, "Celebrate life!" How is it where you are?

EASTER LILY

"The Easter Lily as we know it today (Latin: Lilium longiforum) is native to the southern islands of Japan. In the 1880's it was widely cultivated in Bermuda and bulbs were shipped to the United States. The United States replace Japan is the major source for the Easter Lily during the Second World War. The Easter Lily requires three or four years of close care and just the right mixture of climate and soil in order to produce the quality expected by people today. As such, an area on the border of California and Oregon became known as the Easter Lily capital of the world. The Easter Lily has become the traditional flower of Easter and it is considered a symbol of the resurrection. For many, the beautiful white flowers of the lily symbolize purity, life, good, innocence, and hope."

I found a wonderful and very informative article regarding the Easter Lily and Lily of the Valley in Biblical reference. It is quite interesting and I learned a lot. http://www.learnthebible.org/the-lily-of-the-valley.html

"The great gift of Easter is hope - Christian hope which makes us have that confidence in God, in his ultimate triumph, and in his goodness and love, which nothing can shake. " Basil Hume

Happy Easter everyone!

Blessings,

“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis

InLinkz.com

Batman Sky and Biscuits

2012-04-06T06:02:00.004-07:00

Batman Sky
For Skywatch Friday: http://skyley.blogspot.com

This week I am reading Crafts for Kids by Gill Dickson.

Book Beginnings:

"Festive occasions take place all around the world every day of the year. People like to join together to celebrate personal events such as birthdays and anniversaries and they enjoy communal cultural or religious festivals such as Halloween and Christmas, too. Children in particular love to participate, whatever the occasion."

Page 56: http://fredasvoice.blogspot.com

"Biscuits are always popular and these bat-shaped ones are no exception. They are great for a party and make wonderfully appropriate trick or treats."

Follow Friday: Parajunkee and Alison Can Read

Question: Have you ever bought a book BECAUSE of a bad review?
Answer: One bad review, I'll look into it a bit more. Lots of bad reviews, I'll let it pass.

Bat Biscuits for ages 4-6 years

What You Will Need: For The Biscuits

3 oz. butter
3 tbl. golden syrup

Saucepan:

12 oz. sifted flour
2 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. ground ginger
1 tsp. ground cinnamon

Mixing Bowl:

1 egg, beaten
1-3 Tbl. milk

To Decorate:

9 oz. sugar icing
4 Tbl. warm water
Black food coloring
Edible Bronze Glitter

1. Melt the butter, syrup and sugar in a saucepan, stirring until smooth. Mix the flour, soda and spices in a mixing bowl, then stir them into the pan, adding the beaten egg and enough milk to make a smooth dough.

2. Preheat the oven to 350. When the dough is cool enough to handle, knead and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of 1/4 inch. Cut out as many biscuits as you can with a bat-shaped cutter. Transfer to a greased baking sheet.

3. Make holes in the top of each biscuit with a skewer. Bake for 8-10 mins. until dough begins to darken. Remake the holes in the biscuit while they are still soft and leave to cool.

4. Meanwhile make the icing. Mix the sugar icing with a little black food coloring then gradually add warm water. Once the biscuits are cool, use a knife to cover each biscuit with icing. Before the icing dries, sprinkle each bat with edible bronze glitter.

April is Holy Humor Month

Holy Humor, Batman!

By Deborah DeArmond

The month of April is in fact, the time set aside to celebrate a good chuckle, a guffaw or a hearty laugh as part of a faith-filled life. It’s Holy Humor Month!

The Bible is clear that God believes humor should be on the agenda as a healthy habit. Proverbs 17:22 NKJ “A merry heart does good, like medicine, But a broken spirit dries the bones.”

The word “laugh” or “laughter” is mentioned in the Bible approximately 200 times. Much of that laughter falls into some categories that do not feed our hearts like medicine. Consider if you will:

The laugh of unbelief. Sarah, who laughs at the idea of having a child in her 90’s. (Gen 18:11-12, 15)
The laughter of a fool. God compares the laughter of a fool to the thorns afire beneath a pot – he is so foolish he laughs and doesn’t even see his end coming. (Ecc 7:6)
The laughter of derision. Often this is related to God’s amusement at the foolishness of man in spiritual things. (Ps 2:1-4, Prov 1:24-26)

But the fourth type of laughter is a healthy expression and brings to our lives richness, like medicine. He has given us many reasons to laugh! Here are a few good examples of why God’s people can have a good laugh:

Lack of fear. “She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future.” (Prov 31:25 NLT)
Happiness and connection. “Laugh with your happy friends when they're happy; share tears when they're down.” (Rom 12:15 MSG)
Joy. “God will let you laugh again; you'll raise the roof with shouts of joy.” (Job 8:21 MSG)
Relief. “Good people will watch and worship. They’ll laugh in relief.” (Ps 52:6 MSG)
God is acting on our behalf. “When the righteous see God in action they'll laugh, they'll sing, they'll laugh and sing for joy.” (Psalm 68:3 MSG)
Good fortune. “We laughed, we sang, we couldn't believe our good fortune. We were the talk of the nations—'God was wonderful to them!' ” (Ps 126:2 MSG)
It is a gift to God. “Bring a gift of laughter, sing yourselves into his presence.” (Ps 100:2 MSG)

There is a time for laughter, according to the Ecclesiastes 3:4 “A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance.”

In other words, while life here on this planet is no joke, there are times when laughter is appropriate, healthy and pleasing to God.

So tune up those vocal chords and let loose a giggle or guffaw, a chortle or chuckle, a snicker, a snort or a shout. Let it fly and exclaim to the world the JOY of the Lord!

Deborah DeArmond is an experienced and sought-after coach, trainer and speaker, having worked with audiences at all levels. She has 30 years of expertise, training and teaching in the areas of relationship, communication and conflict resolution. Known for her dynamic style and ability to engage her audiences with a sense of fun along with her direct style, Deborah mixes creativity, humor, and insight and delivers her message on point every time.

Deborah is co-founder and featured author at MyPurposeNow.org, an online site for Christian women 50+. Additionally she is a featured author for two online magazines, Destiny in Bloom and Living Better at 50. She is a CLASSEMINARS, Inc. graduate.

Foto Friday http://photograph4life.blogspot.com

Chenille Quilt for Granddaughter: Pastel Theme

I hope you and yours have a wonderful Easter celebration!

Warmly,

“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis

InLinkz.com

Making Easter Picture Collages

2012-04-04T05:37:00.002-07:00

Wordless Wednesday, Outdoor Wednesday

Rednesday

Our delightful granddaughter is a magical child, overflowing with love and joy. We had a wonderful time together and miss her already! Wishing you and yours a wonderful Easter!

Review:

Candy from PearlMountain Technology has a newly-updated product - Picture Collage Maker for Mac Easter Edition. I am so pleased with the product. Take a look! http://www.pearlmountainsoft.com/picture-collage-maker-mac/

I have had time to experiment with the photo software, to discover what it is capable of doing. Plus, the timing is perfect because my granddaughter loves photo ops!

What I found is that the program is fast and easy to navigate. There is a plethora of design choices for women who like details. I have spent lots of time in Photoshop Elements and enjoying changing the photos for better quality. Picture Collage Maker is different in that you are simply dragging your favorite photos onto templates and having fun decorating portrait or landscape photos into cards, photo albums or posters. I am impressed with Pearl Mountain products!

Here are all the perks:

Picture Collage Maker is an easy to use app that helps people create eye-catching photo collages on Mac OS X. This Easter Edition contains 16 brand new stunning Easter templates, it allows people to make delightful Easter cards that they can freely share with families and friends. Some of the highlighted features include:

1. With 100+ various templates provided to make digital photo collages, scrapbook, greeting cards, posters, photo album for any occasion, like Birthday, Easter, Christmas, Thanksgiving, Wedding, etc.

2. Support drag and drop photos onto collage. It comes with a large collection of beautiful picture frames and masks that you can add to any of your photos.

3. Personalize your creation by adding clip-art, text, background. It allows you to resize, rotate and position all the elements to make collage crafting intuitive and fun.

4. Save collage as an image file, set as desktop wallpaper, share through Email, or print it out instantly to share with friends and family.

During this Easter holiday, Picture Collage Maker is just a great tool to make stunning Easter cards as an unique gift sharing with families and friends, and we are also offering a special Easter promotion. Anyone who buys this program can use the coupon code: PCMMAC_EASTER. With the coupon, the program will cost only $19.90 (original price $29.90), you’ll save $10.

Product page: http://www.pearlmountainsoft.com/picture-collage-maker-mac/
Picture Collage Maker is available in the Mac App Store: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/picture-collage-maker/id495631432?ls=1&mt=12

This offer is valid from Mar 20, 2012 to Apr 8, 2012.

Also, Picture Collage Maker Lite is the #1 Free Graphics & Design App Mac App Store in over 20 countries.
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/picture-collage-maker-lite/id500623480?ls=1&mt=12

Thank you PearlMountain technology for the opportunity to review this wonderful photo software, Picture Collage Maker for Mac Easter Edition.

Lovingly,

“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis

InLinkz.com

LadyD Books

Great Indian Chiefs

Blog Tour and Review: Superluke Faces His Bully

How would you like to feel brave and strong?

"Have you ever been bullied? Or maybe you have bullied someone. If you have never been either of these, I’ll bet that you have witnessed someone being bullied.

If we listen to and see bad things, it can make us mean and scared. The things I see and hear are like spiritual food that can change my attitude. God doesn't want His children hurt by bullies.

Excerpt:

My Review

Thanks Cheryl Malandrinos for the opportunity to review this very cool book.

Wordless Wednesday: Dancing Girls

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Poetic Pink Snapdragons

THE MEANING & SYMBOLISM OF snapdragon

the petulant snapdragon

Wild Wig Sky

Here are some of the artists whose pictures are included in this book:

Wordless Wednesday: Sprouting Savvy

Needs of a Seed

What does a seed need to sprout? Most seeds require only three things: food, water and warmth. Seeds can sprout without light but not without warmth. Seeds must have water and food to sprout.

Sprouting Savvy

You can't trick a sprouting seed. No matter how a seed is planted, the shoot grows upward and the root grows downward. Here's an experiment to do. You'll need a plastic cup, a permanent marker, paper towels, 4 pre-soaked lima bean seeds and water. Here are the steps:

1. Use the marker to draw four equally spaced arrows around the cup, just below the rim. Point one arrow in each of the following directions: up, down, left, right.

2. Press wadded paper towel into the cup, half filling it.

3. Halfway up the cup and below each arrow, tuck a seed between the cup and the wadded paper towel. Position each seed so that its notch points in the same direction as the arrow above it.

4. Press more wadded paper towel into the cup until it is almost filled.

5. Moisten the paper towels with water and then set the seed cup in a warm location.

6. Observe the seeds daily, adding water as needed to keep the paper towels moist.

On the Go

Seeds must go to grow; they must leave their parent plants. Additionally, they must land where conditions are right for sprouting. Seeds can travel, including being carried by animals, people, water and the wind.

Eating Seeds

How many seed-related foods have you eaten during the last 24 hours? Include breakfast cereals, breads and cereal grains such as corn, oats, rice and wheat. Then there's peanuts, beans, peas; including apples and watermelons. Mustard, pepper, dill and chocolate are related to seeds, too.

More About Seeds

Here are some informative books to help continue to grow your youngster's knowledge about seeds.

1. How A Seed Grows by Helene J. Jordan

2. From seed to Plant by Gail Gibbons

3. The Dandelion Seed by Joseph Anthony

4. One Bean by Anne Rockwell

Book Review: Bow Wow Wiggle Waggle

Book Description

Product Details

My Review

Goodness and Love

EASTER LILY

Batman Sky and Biscuits

Making Easter Picture Collages

Written By: Grace Hall
French Folk Song

Written By: Dr. Blatherwick
Music By: Virginia Gabriel

THE MEANING & SYMBOLISM OF
snapdragon