The Power of Encouragement

Are you learning a foreign language? Perhaps you are learning to play an instrument and find it a bit challenging. Our 5-year-old grandson has progressed from scribbling to coloring inside the images. A bit of praise has helped him on his way to becoming a "budding artist!"

Then there's the cupcake decorating... especially when 5 grandchildren visit their YaYa for Christmas! By the way, YaYa is Greek for grandmother. This year we had 4 grandsons stay with us over Christmas break an I must say, spice cupcakes and gingerbread cookies were a treat! Hence, the clip art in this post from Artifex. Each grandchild created a masterpiece with sprinkles and candy canes for that extra special decorating touch! You could hear, "Well done" from every family member!

Perhaps on your journey through life, you need a bit of cheering with hearing, "You Did It," from your friends and loved ones.

So, this past May I listened to Pastor Mel Svendsen speak on "encouragement."I wanted to share some of the highlights with you that I found to be very useful... especially during this beautiful holiday time. Family and community are so important to me. Let's serve one another!

The Power of Encouragement

Romans 16:1-16

1. Your walk with Christ is best done in relationship with others. (Community) Build one another up. Everyone is a fixer-upper. 1Thess. 5:11-14
2. Your growth in Christ is greatly enhanced by the impact of others (ministry). Romans 16:1-18  Hebrews 3:13. Don’t be hardened by deceitfulness.

Deception’s Goal

Unbelief - doubt

Rebellion - my way

Self Centered - What are people going to do for me

Resentment - You think others have a better life

Lack of discernment

Isolation

3. Your impact in this life is exponentially increased when in treatment with others. (Security)  

     Romans 16: 1-18. Gifts complementing one another.

4. Your best response is to encourage and build up others (humility). Romans 16: 1-16

     Definition: “Encouragement”. Sincere words or deeds done to inspire others to go further 

     and grow stronger in becoming who God wants them to be!

     

Words That Encourage

1. Words that express God’s values.
2. Words that facilitate growth.
3. Words that focus on solutions and restoration.
4. Words that express your love and commitment.
5. Words that attack or tear down the person.

1Thess. 2:12

Who can you encourage today by a sacrifice of your resources? (time/talent/treasures.)

Hebrews 10:25

Who can you encourage by reaching out to someone who is not feeling connected?

1Thess. 5:11 

Who can you encourage by helping out in a ministry that may be short-handed and is needing additional help?

Hebrews 10:25

Who can you encourage by including them in something that’s a blessing and growing in you?

Acts 13:13, Acts 15:37-39

Who can you encourage today by forgiving them and giving them another chance?

Pastor Mel Svendsen

5/6-18

Want to learn more about Pastor Mel? Here's my interview that I was privileged to do with my pastor a while back, An-Interview-With-Pastor-Mel-Svendsen.

May you be encouraged today!

Lady D

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

Let's Get Ready For Bed: Book Review

I was so excited to receive this book today from BookLook Bloggers! I am very familiar with Michael W. Smith's songwriting talents and was eager to read some of his word craftings! I quickly discovered within a few moments that this had to be the sweetest bedtime story with a song!

What's It About?

From Grammy Award-winning artist Michael W Smith and the co-creator of VeggieTales Mike Nawrocki comes Let's Get Ready for Bed, the second in a series of bedtime books in the Nurturing Steps line. This sweet and sleepy picture book will lull your little one to sleep with their favorite stuffed animal characters the Nighty Nights.

As an added bonus, this book includes a link that allows readers to listen to Michael W. Smith singing the lullaby from the story.

Founded by Michael W Smith, Nurturing Steps is an infant and toddler series of children’s music and books with a simple mission to enliven a child’s journey with hope and faith through music and storytelling.

This picture book features a cover that shines with foil.

Let's Get Ready For Bed

Book Review

The book begins with two friends, Lamby the sheep, and Eddy the bear looking for Sleepy Puppy. They find him taking a bubble bath, dressing in warm jammies, brushing teeth, and then lovingly saying his prayers of protection for his friends. The illustrations are bright and beautiful. The story nurtures wee people towards personal hygiene, bedtime routines, and thoughtfulness towards others. My favorite part of the book is the Rock-a-bye goodnight lullaby serenade from Sleepy Puppy's good friends. A sweet book and just right for my five-year-old grandson!

5/5 stars. Highly recommend!

Let's Get Ready For Bed

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers http://booklookbloggers.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Happy Reading!

Lady D

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

Houndsley and Catina and Cousin Wagster: Review

I am thrilled to have won this lovely book from LibraryThing! I had no idea how successful the author/illustrator team of Howe and Gay are. I must say, I am a huge fan of Houndsley and Catina. This will make a perfect gift for our granddaughter. Flora is going to love this one...

About The Book

Does Catina like Houndsley’s larger-than-life cousin more than she likes him? The charming friends return in this relatable tale.

When his cousin Wagster comes for a visit, Houndsley is excited. Wagster is all adventure and enthusiasm and razzle-dazzle, and all his friends love him. Even Catina thinks Wagster is fun and good at everything, and pretty soon Houndsley is starting to feel a little bit invisible. But Houndsley and Catina are best friends, and certainly, Cousin Wagster won’t change that — right? James Howe and Marie-Louise Gay have created a tender and funny story about some of the ways that friendships can change, and how they also stay exactly the same.

Houndsley and Catina and Cousin Wagster

Book Review

This is a wonderfully humorous story teaching the value of friendship through diversity. The illustrations are beautiful, happy and warm in pastel colors. Each main character is most memorable and funny in their own special way, especially the cousin who sparkles. All ages will adore and relate to Cousin Wagster with his demonstrative personality. The storyline draws you in with all the dynamic changes in relationships and keeps your attention from start to finish. The struggles with insecurity and not fitting in are talked about. That's a good thing to have communication among friends. Also, the ending is quite charming! I find the book to be brilliant with a simple/deep message for any age. I love this one and highly recommend!

5/5 stars! It's so good!

About the Author

James Howe is the acclaimed author of more than seventy books for young readers, including the Houndsley and

Catina series and the much-lauded BUNNICULA and its sequels. He lives in New York State.

Marie-Louise Gay, the illustrator of the Houndsley and Catina series, is the award-winning author and illustrator of

many other titles, including RAINY DAY MAGIC and the Stella and Sam series. She lives in Montreal.

Houndsley and Catina and Cousin Wagster

If you are interested in reading more from James Howe, take a look at Houndsley and Catina: Plink and Plunk, and Houndsley and Catina and the Quiet Time.

Happy Reading!

Lady D

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

God Will Make a Way by Don Moen

What Is The Book About?

Dove Award–Winning artist says, “You can still trust Him.” Beloved worship leader Don Moen offers comfort to those wondering where God is when life is hard.

At some point, most of us will face a seemingly insurmountable situation—the death of a loved one, the loss of a job, an unexpected divorce, or a poor report from the doctor. It is at these very times, Don asserts, that God has not forgotten us.

In "God Will Make a Way"—the same title as his popular worship song—Don explains that God is always working in ways we cannot see to bring hope and healing to his children. For some, their wounds are self-inflicted. They may think they’ve gone too far and are now merely damaged goods. Don flips that thought on its head, insisting we serve a God of second chances and no one is too far from his reach.

Through heartfelt stories and hope-filled Scripture verses, “Papa Don,” as he’s called by many, weaves a blanket of gentle comfort for readers looking for answers. He has learned to lean on God’s promises in good times as well as bad. God Will Make a Way is a message for the worldwide church that the God who saved Moses and the panicked children of Israel at the Red Sea is the same God we serve today—and nothing is too difficult for him.

What Does The Layout Look Like?

Intro: A Personal Note to the Weary and Leary

• Chapter 1 Through The Storm
• Chapter 2 Through Our Surrender
• Chapter 3 Through His Calling
• Chapter 4 Through Our Trials
• Chapter 5 Through the Movement of His Spirit
• Chapter 6 Through Providing His Platform
• Chapter 7 Through His Miracles
• Chapter 8 Through Our Testimony
• Chapter 9 Through Life's Interruptions
• Chapter 10 Through Our Cooperation with Him
• Chapter 11 Through Our Worship in Spirit and Truth
• Chapter 12 Through His Hope

How Is It? (Book Review)

I felt the author's heart on every page as he sincerely shares his truthful perspective of who he is and who God is! You will be blessed and encouraged to walk with Don as he shares his personal family stories, as well as his professional work adventures. Plus, his musical ministry outreaches all around the world will give you a new perspective on life and your calling. If you are a worship leader in the church, this is a must-read. If you are a musician on a worship team, you've got to sift through the pages to see why you do what you do. If you have faced a job loss, lost a loved one or you're facing an uphill battle, then get the book to experience the journey of a wonderful man sharing his passion and hope in the love of God making a way for you and me. Don's story is filled with God's power and passion that burns deep in his soul that cannot be contained. He shares God's love in such a powerful way, that I believe you will find hope and encouragement in whatever your circumstance is. My favorite line in the book, “God is always working in ways we cannot see.”

The overall message is so inspiring and I was challenged in my faith.

So blessed to read this book! I just couldn't put it down! 5/5 stars!! 

Where Can I Get The Book?

There's a savings going on at Amazon right now. To purchase this beautiful hardcover book, visit God Will Make a Way: Discovering His Hope in Your Story.

Also, you may be interested in this CD,  God Will Make A Way: The Best of Don Moen

Who Wrote The Book?

As a beloved songwriter and worship leader, Don Moen is the author of classic songs like “Thank you, Lord” and “God Will Make a Way”—the inspiration for this book. He knows what it means to feel anxious, worried, and down. And he knows what it means to persevere and see a new day.

A pioneer of the modern Praise and Worship movement, Don Moen has spent his career as a worship leader, producer, songwriter, and music executive. While a student at Oral Roberts University in the early 70s, Moen began touring with the musical group Living Sound and evangelist Terry Law. By 1986, Moen had recorded "Give Thanks" for the Hosanna Music! praise and worship series at Integrity Music, where he would serve as creative director, executive producer, and eventually, president of the label. During his tenure there, he sold more than 5 million units and signed worship leaders and songwriters, such as Paul Baloche, Ron Kenoly, Darlene Zschech, and many more. Today Moen lives in Nashville, TN, with his wife, Laura, where he is president of Don Moen Productions and oversees his international nonprofit ministry, Worship in Action.

The publisher has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book and I am grateful!

God Will Make a Way: Discovering His Hope in Your Story.

Happy Reading!


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

Here If You Need Me: A True Story

Book Description:

HERE IF YOU NEED ME is the story Kate Braestrup's remarkable journey from grief to faith to happiness - as she holds her family together in the wake of her husband's death, pursues his dream of becoming a minister, and ultimately finds her calling as a chaplain to search-and-rescue workers. It is dramatic, funny, deeply moving, and simply unforgettable--an uplifting account of finding God through helping others, and of the small miracles that happen every day when a heart is grateful and love is restored.

Book Review

At first, I thought the book was about law enforcement officers and the journey of what they find in remote places. Quickly consuming every page, I just couldn't put it down! The writings of this brilliant author are superb and satisfying to the listening ear. It's Kate's story of life and death, loss and restoration. The word crafting is monumental and universal. One can relate to grieving the loss of a family member and then immediately chuckle with remembering the up and down journey of raising four children while holding down a full-time job. I have been to Thomaston, Maine and have found the pacing of this story moves you to visualize the deep blues and greens of such breath-taking environmental scenes. When your mind, heart, and soul find rest within the pages, perhaps you'll hear the call of the loons comforting you with Kate's perspective and wisdom on God's sovereignty and ones surrender to life's difficult questions like, "Why does God allow bad things to happen to good people?" My favorite line, "A miracle is not defined by an event. A miracle is defined by gratitude."

Love this one! I recommend it! 4/5 stars.

Here If You Need Me: A True Story

Happy Reading!

Lady D

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

The Last Gift of Time: Life Beyond Sixty

About The Book

When she was young, distinguished author and critic Carolyn Heilbrun solemnly vowed to end her life when she turned seventy. But on the advent of that fateful birthday, she realized that her golden years had been full of unforeseen pleasures. Now, the astute and ever-insightful Heilbrun muses on the emotional and intellectual insights that brought her "to choose each day, for now, to live." There are reflections on her new house and her sturdy, comfortable marriage; sweet solitude and the pleasures of sex at an advanced age; the fascination with e-mail and the joy of discovering unexpected friends. Even the encroachments of loss, pain, and sadness that come with age cannot spoil Heilbrun's moveable feast. They are merely the price of bountiful living.

Review

A look at life after 60 and beyond. The writings of the author share with the reader that one can purchase a home, have a close companionship with a pet dog and enjoy computer work, especially involved with email. Graciously growing old leads to many good choices one can make.

3/5 stars.  

I was so saddened and disappointed in learning that  the author took an end to her life at 77. 

You may want to read the print regarding the author's own moral choice in ending her life here. 
May she rest in peace.

Happy Reading!

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

Book Review: Aaron's Adventures

Intro

Join Aaron the elf on his exciting adventures in a magical world filled with mermaids and aliens as he makes some new friends, gets a pet, learns about life and has some fun along the way. This book is divided into 6 short, easy to read stories perfected for bedtime. Read a new one each night or your child s favorites over and over again. Either way, this book is sure to be a hit with both children and parents.

Aaron's Adventures

Stories

1. Aaron and the Frog
2. The Surprise Dinner Guest
3. Hot Under The Collar
4. Aaron and the Mermaid
5. Aaron and the Alien
6. A Gift from the Heart

Review

A young adventurous elf discovers a jumping frog, a pretty mermaid, named Kendra, and a small alien. He decides to bring them home, one at a time and introduces them to his mom and dad. Read more to discover the parents' reactions as their son Aaron gets into more mischief with the scissors. You'll find the short stories are a quick read and the illustrations are uniquely charming, created by the author herself. Fun, friendship, and a heartfelt ending! 

4/5 stars. 

Aaron's Adventures

Happy Reading!

Lady D

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

Jody's Beans: Book Review

I have always grown green beans in my garden, especially with my own children and grandchildren. I have found many pleasures in watching seeds grow into bountiful vegetables to enjoy at the table. I own the hardcover version of this delightful children's book. One of my grandsons wants to give the book to his cousin for her birthday this month. What a wonderful gift!

About The Book

A magical story will inspire you to grow your own runner beans.

When Jody’s grandfather comes to visit, he brings along a packet of seeds for them to plant. Through spring, summer, and fall, Jody watches her plants sprout, flower, and grow lots of beans. Soon, as Jody’s parents await a new baby, Grandpa and Jody are picking the beans - and waiting for next spring.

Jody's Beans

Book Review

A relationship between a grandfather and his precious granddaughter is a magical one. Doing things together definitely makes for lasting memories. The author has combined successful components in crafting a warm, tender loving story about Jody and her Granda planting twelve pole beans around a teepee-like structure, watching them grow. The watercolor illustrations enhance the charm of a sweet vegetable patch, along with a very white curious cat. Our family loves the book!

5/5 stars!



The Author

Malachy was born in Ireland, went to college in England, brought up his children in Wales and has now returned to Ireland, where he lives on a tiny island off the coast of County Donegal. After spells in advertising and as a special needs teacher, Malachy turned to write children's books. He has now had over 70 published and has won many prizes, including the Parent's Choice Gold Award and the Anne Izard Storytellers' Choice Award (for 'Tales from Old Ireland'), the Nestle Children's Book Silver Award (for 'The Dancing Tiger'), the Tir Na nOg Award (for 'Georgie') and the English Association Award (for 'Cow').

Jody's Beans

Happy Reading!

Lady D

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

The Magical World of Fairies: Enchanted Tales From Fairyland

About The Book

Welcome to the magical world of fairies. As the seasons' pass, fairies flit and fairies fly to take care of the creatures and plants that share their enchanted realm. There are baby birds to watch over, seeds and berries to gather, and the first signs of spring to be discovered at the end of the long, dark winter. Fairies love to have fun, too. Parties, flying races, songs, and laughter can all be found in this delightful collection of stories.

The Magical World Of Fairies

Contents

• The Time of Beginnings
• The Royal Flying Race
• The Butterfly Babies
• The Blossom Ball
• The Fruits Of The Forest
• The Uninvited Guest
• A Winter's Journey
• The Secrets Of The Snow

Book Review

A sense of wonder begins as the reader pictures sparkling frost covering the velvety earth. We meet the Queen of the Fairies greeting little people in the enchanting forest as the first sign of Spring appears. Once again the air is filled with fairies stretching their wings to fly. You'll read about a fun royal flying race in Fairyland. On the very longest day of the year, there is preparation for a royal ball where fairies have the opportunity to change or add to their name.  Learn about Star Singer, Glitter, Sparkle, and Merrydown's adventures. This beautiful book is filled with flowing, inspirational illustrations that create a soft, wispy, angelic mood of wonder for the reader. My granddaughter (8-years-old) loves this one!

5/5 stars! Excellent!

Happy Reading!
Lady D

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

I Can Only Imagine for Little Ones: Book Review

Book Description

Encourage your children’s sense of wonder and faith with I Can Only Imagine for Little Ones, inspired by the hit song by MercyMe. This delightful board book will capture your family’s childlike faith and imagination.

I Can Only Imagine for Little Ones asks questions a child might ask about God and invites families to wonder together: What is heaven like? What does God do? What would it be like to spend a day with Jesus? Children will see that although experiencing the glory of heaven may be far off, we can enjoy a friendship with Jesus every day - right here on earth. Whimsical, playful illustrations and thought-provoking questions make the book families will cherish.

Fun and vibrant illustrations offer a vivid visual and will help your children see that God can be found everywhere, every day.

The more I imagine, the more I wish I knew.

I wonder, would God like pancakes with extra syrup too?

And if God and I spent the day together, what exactly would we do?

Would God feel what I feel? Would He see what I see?

Would He like to explore and see the world with me?

The Christian worship song “I Can Only Imagine” touched countless lives with its glorious representation of being in the presence of God, and this beautifully illustrated board book invites you and your little ones to imagine those same wonders. Share the joy of a personal relationship with the Lord with your family today through the creative, faith-filled book I Can Only Imagine for Little Ones.

I Can Only Imagine for Little Ones

Book Review

What a wonderful perspective for children to grasp and process a visual understanding of what heaven will be like!! The beautiful words will comfort and bring hope to all. The wonderful illustrations show God's love to everyone! Families will enjoy reading together about a real and lasting friendship with Jesus! We love this book!

5/5 Stars! Highly recommend! Great for home and Sunday School libraries!

I Can Only Imagine for Little Ones

Thanking BookLook Bloggers for I Can Only Imagine for Little Ones in exchange for my honest review.

Happy Reading!

Lady D

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

The Faith of Dolly Parton: Book Review

Book Description

Dolly Parton has entertained, educated, and inspired millions of fans for over five decades. Whether she’s writing songs, performing live, recording new albums, acting in or producing new movies and TV programs, expanding her wildly successful Dollywood amusement park, helping children around the world learn to read with her Imagination Library nonprofit, or donating millions of dollars to schools, charities, and people in need, the Queen of Country Music has never been shy about crediting her Christian faith for her success.

“A belief in God is essential,” Dolly shares. “You have to believe in something bigger than yourself. We grew up believing that through God all things are possible.” Growing up in the little mountain church where her grandfather preached, Dolly started singing hymns and playing guitar at services when she was only six. Consequently, she has never been shy about discussing her faith and relationship with God. “People say, ‘Well, I am surprised that you talk about your faith,’ and I say, ‘Why not? That’s who I am. That’s what keeps me going,’” she explains.

Tennessee native, Dolly fanboy, and award-winning writer Dudley Delffs now spotlight ten faith lessons as evidenced in Dolly’s life, music, interviews, and attitude. The Faith of Dolly Parton focuses on the ways Dolly’s life can inspire us all to be more authentic, to trust God during hard times, to stay grounded during the good times, and to always keep our sense of humor. Sometimes poignant, sometimes funny, frequently surprising, and always true to Dolly’s down-home spirit of joyful generosity, this book will delight her millions of fans as well as anyone seeking a fresh faith-filled role model.

The Faith of Dolly Parton

Book Review

What a great summer read. I love this book! A sincere thank you to Dudley for sharing his golden insights with us. First of all, it's so beautiful to read about his spectacular relationship with our amazing Dolly. I have come to learn that she truly is 'the real deal.' Especially when it comes to a deeply hard and challenging area of forgiveness. Wow, a must-read for understanding the depth of emotion in Dolly crafting the words and melody to a favorite song of mine, "I Will Always Love You." You'll find inspiring scriptures and wonderful thought-provoking questions for self-growth. The photos are fun to see, reflecting on Dolly's personality and performances. All in all, I really enjoyed learning of Dolly's childhood, her roots in her faith in Jesus, and she continues a legacy in following Christ!

5/5 stars! Highly recommend!

About the Author

Dudley J. Delffs, Ph.D. is an award-winning writer of fiction and non-fiction. A former publishing executive with divisions of Random House and HarperCollins, Dudley now works with top-tier authors, agents, and publishers to produce bestselling books with life-changing impact. A lifelong fan of Dolly Parton, Dudley lives in Sewanee, Tennessee with his wife and children.

The Faith of Dolly Parton

Thanks to BookLook Bloggers for a copy of, The Faith of Dolly Parton, in exchange for my honest review.

Happy Reading,

Lady D

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

Book Review: Amos Faces His Bully

Book Details

Amos is targeted by the town bully because he is so small. When word reaches Amos of his friend David's battle with Goliath, he thinks back to what David told him about putting his faith in God's protection. Perhaps the same God can help Amos face his bully too.

Amos Faces His Bully

Product Details

• Age Range: 4 - 8 years
• Grade Level: Kindergarten - 4d just that for me.
• Paperback: 20 pages
• Publisher: Guardian Angel Publishing; Large type / large print edition (January 14, 2018)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1616339098

Amos Faces His Bully

Book Review

Sometimes you just need to read a special book with the right perspective for encouraging grandsons. This book did just that for me. It is a great summer read about facing smalltown bullies, sitting in the dirt, boys pushing back and forth, fighting bears and lions, and so much more. Our 10 year-old-grandson easily related to the awesome subject of bravery and trusting the Lord for His protection in all that you face. Our 5-year-old grandson loved the fact that Amos, the main character, stands up to his bullies but there were too many words in the storyline and parts were a bit confusing for him. Both kids felt the style of the illustrations were too cartoonish for a real life-like everyday struggle for boys. I have to say that my favorite line in the book is, "If Amos had God on his side, why did he need to be afraid of the bigger boys?" I loved hearing my boys sigh with relief and mentioning to me that God is on our side. They get it! And so will you. It doesn't disappoint.

4/4 stars! Recommend for home and Sunday School library!

Cheryl Malandrinos does it again! Thanks for the opportunity, sweet friend,  to review Amos Faces His Bully in exchange for my honest review. Best wishes and much-continued success!

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

The South Beach Diet: Review

About The Book

For years, cardiologist Arthur Agatston, M.D., urged his patients to lose weight for the sake of their hearts, but every diet was too hard to follow or its restrictions were too harsh. Some were downright dangerous. Nobody seemed to be able to stick with low-fat regiments for any length of time. And a diet is useless if you can't stick with it.

So Dr. Agatston developed his own. The South Beach Diet isn't complicated and doesn't require that you go hungry. You'll enjoy normal-size helpings of meat, poultry, and fish. You'll also eat eggs, cheese, nuts, and vegetables. Snacks are required. You'll learn to avoid the bad carbs, like white flour, white sugar, and baked potatoes. Best of all, as you lose weight, you'll lose that stubborn belly fat first!

Dr. Agatston's diet has produced consistently dramatic results (8 to 13 pounds lost in the first 2 weeks!) and has become a media sensation in South Florida. Now you, too, can join the ranks of the fit and fabulous with The South Beach Diet.

The South Beach Diet

Book Review

Guided by healthy food choices and a foolproof plan to lose weight fast is what you'll find inside 310 pages. Many of the recipes are easy to prepare and they taste great. I love the dinner and dip sections. My favorite easy to fix recipe is the Grilled Chicken Salad with Tzatziki Sauce. I especially like the wonderful salad options and the many delicious salad dressings. This is a good choice to add to your kitchen library.

5/5 stars.

The South Beach Diet

Recipes

Tzatziki Sauce

1 c. nonfat plain yogurt
2/3 c. peeled, seeded, and diced cucumbers
3/4 tsp. minced garlic
2/3 ounce olive oil
2/3 ounce white vinegar
1 ounce chopped fresh dill
1 1/2 ounces chopped fresh mint
1/4 tsp. kosher salt
6 ounces shredded iceberg lettuce
1 tomato, diced

To make the sauce:

Combine the yogurt, cukes, garlic, oil, vinegar, dill, mint, and salt. Process in a blender or food processor until smooth. Refrigerate until chilled. Great over grilled chicken on a bed of lettuce. Serves 4.

Enjoy!


Lady D

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

Sunset Vegetarian Cooking: Review

Book Review

I found this wonderful cookbook published in the 80s in our local bookstore. I purchased Sunset Vegetarian Cooking for 10 cents that back then was selling for $6.95! Wow, what a  treasure I found! Within the 96 pages, you will find excellent fine-tasting recipes for salads & appetizers, soups, main dishes, vegetable side dishes, and sweet desserts, to name a few. Just roasting bell peppers over the fire can add that nutty flavor to your salad, along with the Lemon Thyme Dressing for your artichoke pasta salad. I am a huge fan of homemade soups, especially the Cuban Black Bean, so this section has good abundant choices. A favorite collection of variety is the Feast from India with Vegetable Curry India-spiced Eggplant and Savory Fried Rice. This is a good book to add to your kitchen library.

5/5 stars.

Sunset Vegetarian Cooking

Recipe

Vegetable Curry

This Indian curry takes easily to improvisation. You start with a basic method of cooking and combination of spices, then add vegetables that appeal to you. If you cook vegetables other than those suggested here, and the textures vary, add the firmest vegetables to the pan first. Then, toward the end of the cooking time, add the more tender vegetables.

2 tablespoons salad oil
1 large onion, coarsely chopped
1 teaspoon each salt and curry powder
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon each ground ginger and cumin
1/8 teaspoon ground red pepper (cayenne)
2 bay leaves
2 medium-size carrots, cut into 1/4-inch slices
1/2 pound broccoli, separated into flowerets, stems peeled and sliced
1/2 pound butternut or banana squash, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
3/4 cup water

Pour oil into a 5-quart pan and place over medium heat. Add onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft. Stir in salt, curry powder, pepper, ginger, cumin, and red pepper, cook for 1 minute. Add bay leaves, carrots, beans, bell pepper, cauliflower, broccoli, squash, and water. Cover and bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer until vegetables are just tender (about 20 minutes). Remove cover, increase heat, and cook for a few minutes to reduce part juices by one-half. Remove bay leaves before serving. Makes 6 servings.

Per serving: 5 grams protein, 33 grams carbohydrate, no cholesterol, 127 calories.

Sunset Vegetarian Cooking

Additional Vegetarian Book  Review

Vegetarian Cookbook Bundle

Happy Reading!

Lady D 

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

Review: I Like Bees, I don't Like Honey!

About The Book

 like bees . . . but I don't like honey!

I like my imaginary friend . . . but I don't like it when people say he's not real.

A beautifully illustrated, funny and thought-provoking book for building confidence and encouraging children to express their feelings - about anything and everything. This book will help enable a much broader conversation about individuality, fear, and hopes.

All author royalties are being donated to the NSPCC.

Paperback Edition

"An important book helping children understand that their feelings and opinions MATTER, written with charm and warmth. Empowering and a great way to help children speak up about their anxieties and worries." <–> Francesca Simon

"I'll tell you what I like - this book!" <–> Andy Stanton

Kindle Edition

Book Review

My older grandson really likes this book because they talk about what they like and don't like. I love the fresh approach to sharing feelings and learning from one another. Great discussion for sensitive kids talking about what they are afraid of. They will want to join in sharing their hopes, what they love and their passion! The rhyming words are wonderful and warm, the story layout is so charming and the illustrations are fantastic! The book makes a great gift for all ages, building confidence and self-awareness. My younger grandson grinned and said, "This is fun!" Get the book. It's awesome!

5/5 stars. Really like this one!

I Like Bees, I Don't Like Honey!

A side note, all the author royalties from the sale of the book will help the NSPCC keep the children safe. Visit, nspcc.org.uk

Thank you, LibraryThing!

Happy Reading!

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

Easter Love Letters from God: Book Review

Book Description

Jesus came to teach people how to love. He came to heal us from everything that hurts us, and to fill our lives with joy, hope, forgiveness, and peace. And the more you get to know Jesus, the more you’ll discover that this can be your life too.

Easter Love Letters from God, written by Glenys Nellist and illustrated by Sophie Allsopp, guides children and families through Holy Week with seven beautifully illustrated Bible stories. Following each story, the child will find his or her own letter from God. Children will love the excitement of opening the letters and parents will love how the letters elaborate on the Bible stories being told. Each message gives the child a sense of wonder as they discover what happened leading up to Jesus’ resurrection on Easter Sunday. A very special Bible verse, entitled God’s Wonderful Words to You will accompany each story and letter. Much more than a memory verse, each carefully chosen promise will be God’s very own personal words of love, encouragement, and hope.

Easter Love Letters from God

Book Review

What a fantastic interactive book to read with your children and grandchildren. Such amazing Biblical stories leading up to a glorious Easter! Kids will enjoy opening up their own mail, finding warm and encouraging notes within the flaps. For those wee sensitive ones, you'll find gentle tones from the author who is a great word crafter. Fears of being alone are addressed and calmly lifted. The elegant illustrations go perfectly with the storyline to enhance simple understanding and meaning to Bible passages. If you want to know what love looks like, you must get the book! My favorite part is that there is a special ending, too! It is a great addition to home and Sunday School libraries. I believe this book especially makes a great gift for that special someone this Easter! I love this one!

5/5 stars!

Bible Stories: Easter Love Letters from God

I received the book from BookLook Bloggers in exchange for my honest review.

Perhaps you would like to read another review from the author's other book I've read!

Love Letters From God

Happy Reading!

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

DesignCap Review

About DesignCap

DesignCap is a free poster maker to help users create custom posters in minutes, no advanced graphics skills needed. Try it out: https://www.designcap.com.

Some of its key features:

* Hundreds of professionally designed templates.

* Thousands of stock photos, clipart images, shapes, fonts, and backgrounds.

* Fully customizable features.

* Completely free to use.

My Review

One of the cool features about DesignCap is that you are able to create a beautiful professional looking poster in no time at all. Pearl Mountain Technology provides templates, fonts, shapes, and backgrounds for free! All you need to do is choose creative designs of your choice and simply add personal information for your event. The learning curve is easy to understand and your finished project is ready to share with clients and also social media in no time at all. It's a perfect tool for school use, up-coming sports events, musical activities, birthday parties and so much more! I love it and plan to announce my spring piano recital designing posters on DesignCap.

5/5 stars! Highly recommend!

Lady D

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