Review of Butterfly House by Eve Bunting

Butterfly House: Eve Bunting

Butterfly House by Eve Bunting

A young girl and her grandfather rescue a caterpillar from a hungry blue jay and make a butterfly house to keep it safe. This tender story -- wonderfully illustrated with sun-kissed drawings -- includes simple instructions for making a butterfly house.

Author Eve Bunting

Eve Bunting has written more than 200 books for children, many of which can be found in libraries around the world. Her other Clarion titles for very young readers include My Big Boy Bed, which was also illustrated by Maggie Smith, and Little Bear's Little Boat, illustrated by Nancy Carpenter.  Eve is a Caldecott Medal winner with Smoky Night. She lives in Pasadena, California.
Eve Bunting raised a butterfly for a local Earth day awhile back and released the beautiful butterfly back  into nature as a beautiful gift.
Butterfly House illustrated by Greg Shed
Greg also raised some Painted Lady butterflies and released them back to the earth. He is a native of San Diego. Please visit his website for a look at Greg's breath taking gallery!
Greg Shed Studio

I find it very interesting that this particular team, author-illustrator, are from sunny California and enjoy writing and illustrating about their passion... as it should be! Did I mention that towards the very back of the book you will find a page on How To Raise a Butterfly?! I love this book with all of its butterfly details and charm. To all the butterfly people, this warm glowing book is worth buying and reading!

Butterfly House

I'd be interested to hear of your childhood memories of butterflies. Being an avid gardener myself and a bee keeper many years back, I have always loved and appreciated the graceful beauty of butterflies.  My landscaping always includes some lantana, cosmos, and marigolds, to name just a few. How about you?

I hope you enjoy your stay at LadyD Books.
Thanks for stopping by!
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Oh My Tummy Hurts with Too Many Tamales


One of the most charming children's stories I have ever read is Too Many Tamales by Gary Soto.


Product Details

  • Reading level: Ages 4-8
  • Paperback: 32 pages
  • Publisher: Putnam Juvenile (August 8, 1996)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0698114124
  • ISBN-13: 978-0698114128

Amazon.com Review

Maria is feeling so grown-up, wearing her mother's apron and helping to knead the masa for the Christmas corn tamales. Her mother even let Maria wear some perfume and lipstick for the big family celebration that evening. When her mother takes off her diamond ring so it won't become coated with the messy masa, Maria decides that life would be perfect if she could wear the ring, too. Trouble begins when she sneakily slips the sparkly ring on her thumb and resumes her kneading. Uh oh. It is not until later that night, after all the tamales have been cooked and after all her cousins and relatives have arrived, that Maria suddenly realizes what must have happened to the precious ring. Ed Martinez's warm oil paintings celebrate the riches of South American Christmas colors--adobe reds, dusty gold, lacey whites, and rain-forest greens. Martinez also has a gift for capturing children's animated expressions, especially when Maria begs her cousins to help her find the missing ring by secretly eating the enormous stack of steaming tamales! Gary Soto's delightful Christmas-spirit closure will relieve young readers who empathize with the negligent Maria. Grown-ups, too, will appreciate this playful reminder about the virtues of forgiveness and family togetherness. (Ages 4 and older) --Gail Hudson --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

From Publishers Weekly

Snow is falling, preparations for a family feast are underway and the air is thick with excitement. Maria is making tamales, kneading the masa and feeling grown-up. All she wants is a chance to wear her mother's diamond ring, which sparkles temptingly on the kitchen counter. When her mother steps away, Maria seizes her opportunity and dons the ring, then carries on with her work. Only later, when the tamales are cooled and a circle of cousins gathered, does Maria remember the diamond. She and the cousins search every tamale--with their teeth. Of course the ring turns out to be safely on Mom's finger. Soto, noted for such fiction as Baseball in April , confers some pleasing touches--a tear on Maria's finger resembles a diamond; he allows the celebrants a Hispanic identity without making it the main focus of the text--but overall the plot is too sentimental (and owes a major debt to an I Love Lucy episode). Martinez's sensuous oil paintings in deep earth tones conjure up a sense of family unity and the warmth of holidays. The children's expressions are deftly rendered--especially when they are faced with a second batch of tamales. Ages 4-8.
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.


About The Author:


Born in Fresno, California to Mexican-American parents, Gary Soto learned the hard work ethic through his share of chores, including mowing lawns, picking grapes, painting house numbers on street curbs, and washing cars. His hard work paid off at California State University at Fresno, from which he graduated with an English degree, and later at the University of California at Irvine, where he earned a Masters of Fine Arts in Creative Writing.Gary Soto is an acclaimed poet, essayist, and fiction writer. The awards for this multi-talented author are many, ranging from the U.S. Award for International Poetry Forum in 1977 for his first published book of poetry, The Elements of San Joaquin, to a Before Columbus Foundation American Book Award in 1985 for Living Up the Street, his first published work of prose recollections. His short story collection Baseball in April, was named an American Library Association's Best Book for Young Adults. In 1993 Gary Soto received the Andrew Carnegie Medal for Excellence in Children's Video for Pool Party, and in 1995 he was nominated for a National Book Award.His other credits include fellowships from the Guggenheim Foundation, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the California Arts Council. Gary Soto is also one of the youngest poets to appear in the Norton Anthology of Modern Poetry. Several of his books have been translated into French, Spanish and Italian.Too Many Tamales was named a Booklist Books for Youth Editors' Choices of 1993. Hazel Rochman of Booklist said, "Gary Soto is an accomplished poet and adult writer, and his children's stories are widely popular. His first entry into the picture book genre is a joyful success."When he is not writing, Mr. Soto serves as a volunteer English teacher at his church. He also enjoys eating at new restaurants, which he does often with his wife, Carolyn, and their daughter Mariko. Other members of the Soto household include their two cats, Corky and Sharkie. The Soto family resides in Berkeley, California.

About the Book:

What I especially like about this book are the wonderful, warm illustrations of family gathering together for Christmas. Plus, the winning combination of the author's message of a child's deep feeling of shame and confession when Maria believes  her mom's diamond wedding ring, that she has taken without permission, might be inside one of the tamales she helped make. How the main character, Maria resolves her problem is funny and although the happy ending is a bit predictable, still you will not want to put this book down. The story line just flows and you feel as though you yourself are a part of Maria's family at this special holiday gathering with the preparation of making delicious tamales.

This book is definitely worth buying and reading.

Too Many Tamales

I hope you enjoy your stay at LadyD Books.
Thanks for stopping by!
-- LadyD
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Friday 56 - The Vertical Self



* Grab the book nearest you. Right now.
* Turn to page 56.
* Find the fifth sentence.
* Post that sentence (plus one or two others if you like) along with these instructions 
on your blog or (if you do not have your own blog) in the comments section of this blog.
*
Post a link along with your post back to this blog Starting Fresh and to Storytime with Tonya and Friends
* Don't dig for your favorite book, the coolest, the most intellectual. Use the CLOSEST.
I look forward to this post each and every Friday. I'm so glad I can be a part of it... this is fun!!
  
Here's mine:
"Growing up in South Central and Watts, they had never been exposed to images of traditional African dancing." ... I think we should continue with the next sentence,
" When they realized the dancing style they had created was uncannily similar to that of their ancestors, they were deeply moved." 

from the Vertical Self - How Biblical Faith Can Help Us Discover Who We Are In An Age Of Self Obsession by Mark Sayers 

I hope you enjoy your stay at LadyD Books.
Thanks for stopping by!


LadyD
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Time for Bed, Little One

Time For Bed, Little One

Product Details

  • Reading level: Baby-Preschool
  • Hardcover: 32 pages
  • Publisher: Good Books (May 2009)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 1561486590
  • ISBN-13: 978-1561486595

Product Description

Little Fox doesn't want to go to bed. He's not tired yet! But morning is breaking and his friends are either eating breakfast or getting ready for bed. Finally, Little Fox finds Squirrel and the two friends chase each other through the woods. But soon, Little Fox is getting sleepy. Maybe it is time for Little Fox to get ready for bed after all. The forest and its many inhabitants come alive in Tina Macnaughton's lovely illustrations. This is a wonderful bedtime read, perfect for urging reluctant little ones to bed.

Oh, how I love this precious book! The illustrations  by Tina Macnaughton are so darling and if you love the color green and all-natural, earthy forest colors, then you're in for a treat seeing little fox on every page. I especially love Caroline's writing style because of her warm conversation she shares with us from the main character, Little Fox and his forest friends.

Time for Bed Little One


There's another great site I discovered today that is perfect for babies and toddlers with lullaby lyrics and videos. Visit http://www.lullaby-link.com/index.html for more information. Here's a sample:

Irish lullabies are some of our favorites. The Irish lullaby tradition couples poetic lyrics with soothing melodies. Who does not understand the image painted by these words?

“Over in Killarney, many years ago my mother sang this song to me in tones so sweet and low…”

Whether you are searching for Too ra Loo ra Loo ra, made famous by Bing Crosby in 1944, or the softest of cradle songs, you will find a growing body of information on this site.


I hope you enjoy your stay at LadyD Books.
Thanks for stopping by!

 LadyD
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Who Loves Me? The Kitten Tells Her!

When was the last time you visited your library? I spent some time there browsing the shelves and pulling out titles and flipping through titles. I was soaking up the possibilities of all those great stories.



From School Library Journal

PreSchool-Grade 3–In this simple, soothing bedtime story, a little girl asks the title question, and her striped orange cat offers a litany of those who love her until the child drifts off to sleep. Their quiet conversation covers everyone from her parents and brother to the family dog, who would love her even if she didn't give him treats. Shepherd's stylized illustrations are bathed in rich, warm shades of goldenrod and ochre, through which MacLachlan's cozy, comforting dialogue meanders like a song. A warm and lyrical selection.–Catherine Threadgill, Charleston County Public Library, SC
Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

From Booklist

PreS. In MacLachlan's latest picture book, a little girl preparing for bed asks her marmalade cat, "Who loves me?" In a drifting dialogue that suggests a nightly ritual, the pair identify the child's many admirers and free-associate cozy details appropriate to each: grandfathers demonstrate their love by teaching "about the fish in the pond"; friends don't stop loving one another just because "[they] argue sometimes." Shepherd's stylized watercolors, reminiscent of Giselle Potter's work, balance the text's saccharine notes with angular, folk-art-style depictions of girl, cat, and their spare, dreamlike surroundings. MacLachlan's examples of parental love--Mom plants a "lily garden," Dad builds a "playhouse with blue shutters and a stone path"--may not trigger the strong, universal emotions of the less-material tributes, and Shepherd's bright palette, bathed in soft yellows and sky blues, seems to contradict the bedtime premise. Still, the reassurance that children are cocooned in love even as they sleep is just what many young ones need during those anxiety-prone moments before slumber. Jennifer Mattson
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved

Product Details

  • Reading level: Ages 4-8
  • Hardcover: 40 pages
  • Publisher: HarperCollins; 1 edition (May 3, 2005)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0060279761
  • ISBN-13: 978-0060279769
This is a very sweet bedtime story. As a little girl gets ready for bed she ask her kitten an important question. She asks it "Who Loves Me? " The kitten tells her of all the people and animals that love her and why. From the mouse to her cousins and friends animals and humans alike have their own special reason for loving the little girl!

Every boy and girl needs to hear that they are loved! My Siamese cat Jazz will tell you right after she wakes up from her cat nap... how much you are loved!!




Patricia MacLachlan is the best-selling author of many beloved books for young readers, including Sarah, Plain and Tall, winner of the Newberry Medal.


I hope you enjoy your stay at LadyD Books.
Thanks for stopping by!

 LadyD
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The Smartest Baby in the Whole World

Baby Brains Superstar!

How many times have you heard someone say "My baby is the smartest baby in the whole wide world!"? I can recall numerous times I have repeated those beautiful words to my own children and my 2 grandsons.

Being a piano teacher for around 15 years now and always listening to music, I have spent some free time researching children playing instruments at an early age from piano, violin and yes, the guitar. At our local library, I came across this delightful book, Baby Brains Superstar by Simon James. The cover art immediately caught my eye:


Product Details
  • Reading level: Ages 4-8
  • Hardcover: 32 pages
  • Publisher: Candlewick (September 13, 2005)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0763628948
  • ISBN-13: 978-0763628949
About The Book:

This is a tale about a super star talented baby who has ordinary baby needs. Baby Brains expresses an interest in music, and after attending weeks of music school is ready to take the rock world by storm. But on the night of his big debut, instead of playing his new song, he starts crying "I Want My Mommy". The crowd believes that this cry IS the intended song and it becomes a smash worldwide hit. His parents however, know the truth and rush to comfort their genius baby who promptly announces his retirement.

Baby Brains Superstar



I also wanted to share another cool site I found online:
bella luna Toys ... are you familiar with their wooden and felt toys?

I like the idea of the Music Wands for little ones and also the Kinderlyres


I hope you enjoy your stay at LadyD Books.
Thanks for stopping by!

 LadyD

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Somebody Loves You, Mr. Hatch

I picked up a copy of this book at our local library called Somebody Loves You, Mr.Hatch. It is written by Eileen Spinelli and pictures by Paul Yalowitz.

From Publishers Weekly

This warmhearted tale examines the effect that love and tender regard can have on a lackluster existence. Mr. Hatch is a drab, predictable gentleman who leads a painfully ordered and uninteresting life, his dreary routine at the shoelace factory barely broken by the same joyless lunch day after day. One Valentine's Day a giant candy-filled heart is delivered to Mr. Hatch with a note that reads, "Somebody loves you." Just the thought of someone taking an interest in him completely changes the way Mr. Hatch interacts with his neighbors and co-workers. The newly adorable gentleman becomes so much a part of people's lives that when it is disclosed that the heart was delivered by mistake, his friends and neighbors rally around him in a loving demonstration. With its carefully measured pace, Spinelli's gentle prose is perfectly married to Yalowitz's ( Some of My Best Friends Are Monsters ; The Spooky Eerie Night Noise ) contemporary-style colored pencil illustrations, rendered with skill and sensitivity. Even the palette here changes with the story's mood, from dull grays and tans to cheery pinks, oranges and blues. Ages 4-7.
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

From Kirkus Reviews

Colorless Mr. Hatch--who works in a shoelace factory and eats a cheese and mustard sandwich for lunch every day with, just occasionally, a prune--is jarred from his reserve by receiving a huge Valentine box of candy with a card that says only, ``Somebody loves you.'' Amazed, he samples it, shares it at work and, buoyed by his friendly reception, sympathetically helps several people out on the way home (e.g., he watches the newspaper stall so that its proprietor can take his cold to the doctor). He's soon baking brownies, hosting a neighborhood picnic, and reading to the local kids. Then the postman arrives with the news that the candy was delivered to the wrong address, putting poor Mr. Hatch into a funk; but his devoted new friends rally round to bring him back into their cheerful society. Told with warmth and a light touch, the story easily transcends its predictability. It's much enhanced by Yalowitz's mellow color- pencil illustrations. His unique elongated characters with their extra-tall heads are at once animated and serene; the smooth clarity of his scenes is enlivened with many amusing details. A charming book with a real plot, its amiable tone beautifully complemented by the intriguing illustrations. (Picture book. 4-8) -- Copyright ©1991, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
Product Details
About the Book:

This is a beautiful book of shared love and friendship. Mr. Hatch is a lonely, friendless man until he receives a present from a secret admirer. Then, he blooms, contributing greatly to his community. The people in his neighborhood, in turn, support him as well, showing him how much he means to them. This is an excellent gift book for Valentine's Day ( I know I'm a little late) and teachers will enjoy its many good points on feelings and emotions. A great story for children of all ages.

Somebody Loves You, Mr. Hatch (paperback)

Visit her site:  Eileen Spinelli
Read more about the is charming author:
http://www.eileenspinelli.com/heart_007.htm

Thanks for stopping by.
I hope you enjoy your stay at LadyD Books.

Warmest Regards,
LadyD

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The Tortilla Factory by Gary Paulsen



Product Details

  • Reading level: Ages 4-8
  • Paperback: 32 pages
  • Publisher: Voyager Books (April 15, 1998)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0152016988
  • ISBN-13: 978-0152016982

Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly

This simple prose poem describes, in broad strokes, how corn is harvested and made into tortillas while rough, warm-toned paintings set the scenes. All ages.
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Booklist

Ages 6-9. Using simple yet evocative language, Paulsen tells young readers how a corn seed eventually becomes a tortilla. "The black earth sleeps in winter . . .," but in the spring, it is worked by brown hands that plant the yellow seeds. Seeds become plants, and then the corn is ground into flour and sent to the tortilla factory. The flour disks come off the machine, are packaged, and eventually arrive in kitchens--" to be wrapped around juicy beans and eaten by white teeth, to fill a round stomach and give strength to the brown hands that work the black earth." This circular telling works nicely with the strong, attractive paintings that get texture from their linen surface. The simplicity of the text does raise a few questions, however. For instance, is the dough really kneaded by hand after it has been mixed by machinery? Although this may have select appeal, it's an interesting and attractive offering. Ilene Cooper --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.


Biography

Gary Paulsen is one of the most honored writers of contemporary literature for young readers. He has written more than one hundred book for adults and young readers, and is the author of three Newberry Honor titles: Dogsong, Hatchet, and The Winter Room. He divides his time among Alaska, New Mexico, Minnesota, and the Pacific. 

Paintings by Ruth Wright Paulsen


About The Book:

This is a simple book with beautiful illustrations for your little ones. They will understand the cycle of growing food from the soil, to the seed, to the plant, and then from the flour to the tortilla. It's a Beautiful book!

The Tortilla Factory
 

Warmest Regards,
LadyD

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Friday 56: Duke Ellington Bandleader and Composer

 As Black History Month is winding down, I was thinking of combining this post with Friday 56 Meme.



Rules:
* Grab the book nearest you. Right now.
* Turn to page 56.
* Find the fifth sentence.
* Post that sentence (plus one or two others if you like) along with these instructions 
on your blog or (if you do not have your own blog) in the comments section of this blog.
*
Post a link along with your post back to this blog http://startingfresh-gaby317.blogspot.comand to Storytime with Tonya and Friends at http://storytimewithtonya.blogspot.com/
* Don't dig for your favorite book, the coolest, the most intellectual. Use the CLOSEST.

 Here's Mine:


"He arranged for the band to record under a variety of names , such as the Washingtonians, the jungle Band, the Harlem Feetwarmers, and the Cotton Club Orchestra, as well as Duke Ellington and His Orchestra."


Black Americans of Achievement
Introductory Essay by Coretta Scott King


Duke Ellington Bandleader and Composer by Ron Frankl

 Product Details
  • Hardcover
  • Publisher: Chelsea House (1988)
  • ASIN: B000JWFP4A
  * About The Author:


Ron Frankl - A long-time New Yorker who moved to North Carolina in 2006, Music was always the main thing in my life, at least until I met my amazing wife, Michele. I am also the author of seven biographies for teenaged and juvenile readers on such figures as Duke Ellington, Miles Davis, Charlie Parker and Bruce Springsteen, and a graduate of Haverford College. After 25 years of Manhattan living and a year in Queens, Michele and I moved to Hendersonville NC with our nine (yes, nine!) amazing cats. Our precious Maxine has moved on to her much-deserved tenth life (We miss you, Mugsy!), but the rest of us are loving life in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Please welcome our newest addition, Maggie Mae, our amazing mutt.

About The Book:


No words can adequately describe Duke Ellington's music. I am so grateful my parents introduced me to swing music at an early age. Here I am... this says it all! lol (yeah, yeah, yeah I played it slow!)




Warmest Regards,
LadyD


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Book Review: Embracing Your Freedom by Susie Larson

Embracing Your Freedom: susie larson

Product Description

While our culture places great emphasis on comfort, security, control, and success, there are deeper rewards for those who take hold of God’s promises and reach out in the Name of Christ. Adventure, faith, miracles, and a deep knowledge of Jesus Christ. This is what Susie calls her readers to realize.

Author/Speaker Susie Larson makes her message graspable, accessible, and doable. Her stories, scriptural devotionals, and study questions set the stage for a first-hand experience of God’s heart for personal freedom, for the plight of the suffering, and for a conviction to get involved with His work among those in need.
While the book’s primary focus is on the reader’s journey into freedom, it clearly conveys our shared responsibility to “seek justice, rescue the oppressed, defend the orphan, [and] plead for the widow” (Isaiah 1:17, nrsv). This is God’s expectation for those who truly know Him.

When we live in bondage to our fears, insecurities, shame, guilt, despair, or sinful appetites, we live self-focused lives. But when we embrace our freedom in Christ, our hearts are released from captivity and we view everything around us—our relationships, resources, responsibilities, and opportunities—as tools to bring that same freedom to those who desperately need it. This book is for the woman who wants to grow stronger in her walk of faith and who wants to gain a greater view of God’s heart for the world. And it’s to this we are called. May she be provoked, to be as free as God meant her to be. And as a result, may she become an advocate for the freedoms of others.

Each chapter will include devotional insights, justice quotes, anecdotes, prayer guidance, and study/reflective questions.

Embracing Your Freedom

About the Author

With enthusiasm, humor, and conviction, author/speaker SUSIE LARSON has spoken to thousands of women locally, nationally, and internationally. She is a member of the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, Women in Christian Media, and serves on the board of directors for the Christian Authors Network. Susie also serves a regular guest host for Along the Way – a two-hour talk radio show (AM Faith 900). In addition to authoring several books and many articles, Susie works as a freelance writer for Focus on the Family, and has been featured as a guest on radio and TV programs across the country, including Moody Midday Connection, Family Life Today, Chris Fabry Live!, The Harvest Show, and the LIFE Today Show with James and Betty Robison.
While in Washington D.C., Susie and her husband Kevin, along with Troy and Sara Groves, represented International Justice Mission’s*concerns in meetings with Congress as part of their efforts to abolish and prevent human trafficking and slavery. The four of them serve as co-chairs for the IJM benefit banquet in Minnesota. Susie comes with a passion for sharing the love of a Savior who will never let us go.

Product Details

  • Paperback: 224 pages
  • Publisher: Moody Publishers (October 1, 2009)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0802452809
  • ISBN-13: 978-0802452801


 About the Book:


I found this book very refreshing and truly inspiring. I love Susie's heartfelt prayers written with each chapter. It's a deep book like a prayer and devotional book so one is likely not to speed read through it. Its overall effect will be life changing because the heart of the book is so very relevant for today! In order to see a bigger picture of God's heart for the world, you'll explore the personal chains of fears, insecurities and the bondage of lies and deception. I was able to grasp the torch to freedom as a daughter of God in His truth and light, and wish to pass it along to you. Let me explain a bit more on the title of Susie Larson's great book.


Does freedom matter to you? Moreover, what does freedom mean to you? Do you desire to be gloriously free? Here is what the author says, "Freedom does not mean I am able to do whatever I want to do. That's the worst kind of bondage. Freedom means I have been set free to become all that God wants me to be, to achieve all that God wants me to achieve and to enjoy all that God wants me to enjoy." If you've tasted freedom, then you must guard and protect it, recover it and be restored. I have played the song on the piano many times, The Warrior is a Child. The words of this song say well what Susie has written in her book that has captured my heart. We have an identity, rights and a hope for the future. Superb writing from this author! An excellent read!


You will embark on a soul-searching journey with Susie as she shares with you real life people and examples of how women reclaimed their identity, disarmed their past, embraced God's heart for justice and experienced radical change.  Upon finishing Susie's book, I have been encouraged and challenged to take God more seriously and truly honor Him. I am deeply motivated to put on the daily practice and discipline of focusing more on the Lord's strengths than on my weaknesses. May you have a renewed perspective on your true identity in being defined by what you've gained in Christ's love for you.
Nothing and no one has the power to diminish your value in our Heavenly Father's love for you. Susie Larson writes strongly and passionately on this theme in her book Embracing Your Freedom. I loved this book and recommend that you buy yourself a copy. It is worth reading, like taking daily vitamins and putting on the armor as you face daily bumps in the road! Be strong, brave and free!

 For more information visit:
http://virtualbooktourdenet.blogspot.com/2010/01/embracing-your-freedom-by-susie-larson.html

Warmest Regards,
LadyD

Sweet Story: On The Night You Were Born




Choosing children’s books to read can seem like an easy task, especially when the person you are reading them too has little if any literary taste.  However, this recently-published books promises to be entertaining for both you and your young.

 On The Night You Were Born – Nancy Tillman (ages 4-8). This book is a lovely boost of self-esteem for your little one.  As a parent, you are the one who can instill a healthy sense of self in your child and this book helps.  News of your child’s birth travels the animal-laden pages of this book, and the animals dance and sing with jubilation.  ”Because there had never been anyone like you…ever in the world.  When the polar bears heard, they danced until dawn.”  Lines like these celebrate the life of your child, leaving both you and your young one feeling unique and loved by the universe.

Product Details

  • Reading level: Baby-Preschool
  • Hardcover: 32 pages
  • Publisher: Feiwel & Friends; 1 edition (October 17, 2006)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0312346069
  • ISBN-13: 978-0312346065

    Editorial Reviews

    From Publishers Weekly

    The birth of a baby—"the one and only ever you"—causes jubilation throughout creation in this quietly celebratory picture book from newcomer Tillman. Polar bears dance, giraffes weave to the sound of brass horns, and "the moon smiled with such wonder/ that the stars peeked in to see you/ and the night wind whispered,/ 'Life will never be the same.' " Tillman successfully sidesteps the soft-focus sappiness that can accompany this genre. Her writing has the authenticity of whispered conversation; occasionally, she pauses in her exaltations of the baby to address the subject directly: "I think I'll count to three so you can wiggle your toes for me." Her strong, assured paintings truly set this book apart. The pictures subtly radiate golden glints of moonlight, and her almost sculptural rendering style gives her characters a hefty physicality that counterbalances the ethereal sentiments being expressed. Although one suspects that grown-ups will be most taken with the topic and treatment, this is one of those rare baby books that should make both skeptics and sentimentalists of all ages happy. All ages. (Oct.)
    Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

    From School Library Journal

    Kindergarten-Grade 2—Rhyming text extols and celebrates the uniqueness of a newborn. "Because there had never been anyone like you…ever in the world." As the news of the birth travels, creatures around the world celebrate. "When the polar bears heard, they danced until dawn." "…the geese flew home." "Heaven blew every trumpet…." The text sits on white pages opposite large, richly colored illustrations. The moon appears in all of the paintings—as reassuring as the text's sentiment. Golden musical notes float across the sky as white polar bears dance and giraffes sway to the sounds of the moon's saxophone. The dark blue night skies make a beautiful and dramatic setting for this special night. The painterly art and poetic quality of the text make this an attractive book. Parents and grandparents are most likely to appreciate it, but they will undoubtedly want to share it with a child.—Carolyn Janssen, Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County, OH
    Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved
 Have you read this children's book written by Nancy Tillman?  Your thoughts? I find it to be a sweet book and perfect gift book for new mother's, mother's adopting, and great for young children's self-esteem!

On the Night You Were Born

Warmest Regards,
LadyD


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Waiting for a Carrot Seed to Sprout!



Have you seen this article by TARA PARKER-POPE on A Pediatrician’s Advice on ‘Green’ Parenting? Dr. Greene was an early advocate of environmentally conscious parenting, an issue he explores in his latest book, “Feeding Baby Green: The Earth-Friendly Program for Healthy, Safe Nutrition During Pregnancy, Childhood, and Beyond” (Jossey-Bass, 2009) You can read more at: http://well.blogs.nytimes.com

From the article: "I suggest starting really early with kids, feeding them something green at lunch and dinner so they recognize that as normal — so it seems strange not to have a green vegetable at lunch or dinner. It’s also the “green” that is healthy, whole organic food that is smart for the planet the baby is going to inherit."
The Carrot Seed

 

 Well, I have said all of this to say that I went to our library and found a great children's book and wonderfully illustrated picture book by Crockett Johnson, The Carrot Seed by Ruth Krauss. She is the creator of Barnaby. In fact, Ruth has written tons of books like Open House For Butterflies and Charlotte and the White Horse, to name a few.

I have to agree with so many that this book is the granddaddy of all picture books. A simple story with simple pictures... I love this book. It is a true classic! 

The Carrot Seed

Warmest Regards,

LadyD

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Book Review: This Is Your Brain In Love by Dr. Earl Henslin

This Is Your Brain In Love
This is Your Brain in Love
New Scientific Breakthroughs for a More Passionate and Emotionally Healthy Marriage
By Earl Henslin

Product Description

Make your marriage the best it can be by learning the secrets of proactive passion.
Using the latest in brain research, This Is Your Brain in Love helps couples become Master Level Lovers by encouraging each mate to bring their healthiest, most balanced and joyful self to their marriage.
Dr. Henslin speaks to the vital connection between spirituality and sexuality. He identifies the five types of lovers, with ground-breaking insights and effective solutions for the challenges presented by each:
  • Scattered Lover
  • Over-focused Lover
  • Blue Mood Lover
  • Agitated Lover
  • Anxious Lover
Filled with relatable stories and humor, this is not your boring brain book! Engaging and practical, Dr. Henslin provides an amazingly accurate, scientifically-based brain test to help spot typical brain imbalances. (And yes, most everyone has at least one!)
Bonus material offers brain-researched strategies and new hope for women dealing with hormones and men struggling with sexual addictions.

About the Author

Dr. Earl Henslin is a licensed counselor and author of six books and numerous professional articles. For the past fourteen years, working closely with brain imaging research pioneer, Dr. Daniel Amen, Dr. Henslin has been integrating brain imaging in patient treatment.

Product Details

  • Paperback: 240 pages
  • Publisher: Thomas Nelson (January 12, 2010)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0785228756
  • ISBN-13: 978-0785228752
 About The Book:


My favorite line in the book is found at the beginning. "It's what all the poets and musicians and romantics sing about. It's true love." Dr. Earl Henslin has written a wonderful book filled with great insights to help us understand and improve a healthier more passionate relationship with our marriage partner.  Who wouldn't want to improve their love life and have a great marriage?!


Dr. Earl Henslin says that long term friends who fall in love tend to have steadier, happier marriages. His list of five imbalances that are common in marriage will provide good understanding as to what's wrong in relationships. The author then provides detailed counseling on gratitude exercises and forgiveness with scriptures and relational tips for intimacy.


Read the book slowly and savor all the references provided. This is a very interesting book and it is worth reading because a healthy sex life leads to healthy, happy people who live long lives. 4 stars!

Warmest Regards,
LadyD
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Friday 56: 1,001 Timely Tips For Clutter Control

1,001 Timely Tips For Clutter Control


This is a great book for knowing what to keep when to toss and how to store your stuff. Reading through the pages will help you make your own organized decisions and actions easier. Clutter control is not difficult when you have a plan. I especially like the quote from Clutters Anonymous, "Clutter is anything we don't need, want, or use that takes our time, energy, or space and destroys our serenity." I like the book because it helps you with the necessary tools to get your life back on track.

5/5 stars! Recommend!

Book Content

Chapter 1: The Kitchen

  • The pantry
  • The refrigerator and freezer
  • Kitchen Countertops
  • Kitchen Cupboards
  • Kitchen Drawers 
Chapter 2: The Family Room

Chapter 3: The Dining Room

Chapter 4: The Home Office

Chapter 5: The Bedroom

Chapter 6: The Clothes Closet

Chapter 7: The Bathroom

Chapter 8: The Linen Closet

Chapter 9: The Hobby Room

Chapter 10: The Laundry Room

Chapter 11: The Garage

Chapter 12: The Car

Chapter 13: The Attic or Basement

Chapter 14: Garage Sales

Chapter 15: Shopping

Chapter 16: Time Management

Chapter 17: Relocating

Chapter 18: Holidays and Entertaining

Chapter 19: Traveling

The Friday #56

Rules:

* Grab the book nearest you. Right now.
* Turn to page 56.
* Find the fifth sentence.
* Post that sentence (plus one or two others if you like) along with these instructions 
on your blog or (if you do not have your own blog) in the comments section of this blog.
*
Post a link along with your post back to this blog http://startingfresh-gaby317.blogspot.comand to Storytime with Tonya and Friends at http://storytimewithtonya.blogspot.com/
* Don't dig for your favorite book, the coolest, the most intellectual. Use the CLOSEST.
Here's mine:
"When you're in the family room, you are most likely sitting down and enjoying the company of other people or engaging in a quiet activity."
1001 Timely Tips for Clutter Control


I like that! :) 
Have a great weekend everyone!

Warmest Regards,
~ LadyD