In The Bookcase

Sharing Our Bookshelves {February 2012}

2012-02-03T07:45:00.001-06:00

Here is the new book link-up for the month of February!

If you're interested in participating, just post anything about books on your blog, grab a button to include, & link up below. That's why this is called Sharing Our Bookshelves, so that we can share what we're currently reading, book reviews, etc, with other like-minded readers.

What books did you read in the month of January? I read a few good ones that kept me busy:

My favorite from last month is definitely The Hiding Place. {review coming soon!}

Just a quick note, to all you people on Goodreads... if we're not already connected, I'd like to add you into my circle of book-reading friends!

Burns' Night, January 25th

2012-01-25T07:36:00.002-06:00

I've stumbled upon an interesting piece of Scottish history, and just in time too.

In fact, January 25th is a special day throughout Scotland. An annual celebration called Burns' Night takes place, commemorating the life and contributions of the bard (poet) Robert Burns, who was born on January 25th, 1759. This celebration takes place in evening-time during a special supper, including haggis as the main dish. Throughout the meal, poems and works of Robert Burns are read aloud, as part of the celebration of Scotland's favourite son, as he is sometimes referred to. I only just discovered this celebration and wondered if any of you knew of it?

EDIT: I happened across this article today: Think you know about Robert Burns? which contains a few other interesting facts.

My heart's in the Highlands, my heart is not here,
My heart's in the Highlands a-chasing the deer,
A-chasing the wild deer and following the roe -
My heart's in the Highlands, wherever I go!

Farewell to the Highlands, farewell to the North,
The birthplace of valour, the country of worth!
Wherever I wander, wherever I rove,
The hills of the Highlands for ever I love.

Farewell to the mountains high cover'd with snow,
Farewell to the straths and green valleys below,
Farewell to the forests and wild-hanging woods,
Farewell to the torrents and loud-pouring floods!

--Robert Burns

Favorite Finds #30

2012-01-20T06:18:00.002-06:00

Hello, my readers!

With today being Friday, I have some of Favorite Finds to share with you. The articles & posts below are all something I enjoyed reading this past week.
Any of you have some favorite things you've read recently?

The Author's Giveaway

{Before By Penn Has Gleaned}

Patricia MacLachlan to Write
Boxcar Children Prequel

{The Joy of Children's Literature}

Valentines Book Page Flower Tutorial

{Yellow Blackbird}

The first 100 days of 2012

{A Bowl of Moss and Pebbles}

Getting to know the Alcotts
through neighbors and friends

{Louisa May Alcott is My Passion}

Journey Of A Writer: Starting off

{Literary Pursuits}

New slate, anyone?

{Simply Vintagegirl}

52 Weeks | 52 Verses

Dog refuses to leave owner’s grave.

{Ramani's blog}

So You Think You Want to Write Fiction

{Crosswalk}

Sharing Our Bookshelves {January 2012}

2012-01-02T06:04:00.001-06:00

It's time for another monthly round of Sharing Our Bookshelves. This time though, we're starting out a new year!

What kind of book goals have you set for yourself to accomplish in 2012?
I hope that if you're posting about books anytime this month, you'll link up below so that some new blog readers can find your posts.

If you saw my last post 'Looking at my reads from 2011' then you'll know I've been thinking about all the books I enjoyed during the twelve months of 2011, including a list of my very favorites.

2011 was a year of firsts for me in some respects in the literary world. The beginning of three new bookish friendships began. That is, with R.M. Ballantyne, G.A. Henty, and with the lovely Lamplighter books. If you have some specific titles of these books that you've enjoyed, I would appreciate your suggestions on which ones I should choose next to read.

There are some notable reads I should mention in addition to my favorite books of the year. For example, in November, I just finished the last of the wonderful books penned by Laura Ingalls Wilder (I have started the series over and over a few times before, but this time I can now say I've read them all---finally.) I also read a drama play for the first time, Pygmalion by George Bernard Shaw---Who knew it could be so interesting just to read the lines of all the characters? Also to go on my list of "firsts" for 2011: I was able to read Book #1 of the Nancy Drew series, Secret of the Old Clock. For a reader who loves mysteries, I'm surprised at myself for not reading the good ol' Nancy books until now---I had read a few of the newer stories before this, but not the originals. I'm looking forward to reading more in the new year.

One thing I have enjoyed for several years now is a notebook to keep track of all the books I've read. It helps me remember titles of books, the authors, and the dates when I read those books. In fact, I have more than eight years' worth of a notebook like this! It is an invaluable piece of memory to keep around. If you haven't started your own notebook like this, maybe 2012 is the time to start recording all the books you'll be reading this year.

So then, I look forward to see the wonderful posts you'll be linking up below. Whether it is end-of-the-year lists, or goals for the new year... whatever bookish thoughts you're blogging about, please share so that we can all enjoy.

Looking at my reads from 2011.

2011-12-31T09:11:00.001-06:00

At the end of each year, I always enjoy taking a little time to look through all the book titles that I have read during the last 12 months. I usually come across a lot of "I read that book only just this past year?"---especially ones that I loved so much, and it seems like its been ages since I did read it---but it was only a few months ago. This year I accomplished reading 50 books, which almost means one book every week. I enjoyed each of these, but I do have my tip-top favorites. So now...

(in no particular order, because I can't bring myself to use favoritism on my favorites)

A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens
I'm so glad to have read a classic like this---it is currently my favorite of Dickens' works that I've read so far. If I was to choose a character from any book that I admire most, it would be Sydney Carton. {You can read my full review here.}

Little House in the Highlands by Melissa Wiley
The first in a series of 4 about Martha, the great-grandmother of Laura Ingalls Wilder. She roamed and romped across the wild, heather-filled highlands of Scotland!

A Peep Behind the Scenes by O.F. Walton
Sweet and charming. Just how I thought a Lamplighter book would be. Now I can't wait to read more of these books in this new year.

My Heart's in the Lowlands by Liz Curtis Higgs
Has anyone heard of "arm-chair travel"? The author literally takes you on a trip across the sea to Scotland and "shows" you the landmarks, the quaint shops, houses, kirks, and majestic castles. She talks to you, as the reader, as if you were standing beside her, taking in the same sights, smells, feelings, and noises that she is.

In Freedom's Cause by G.A. Henty
To introduce myself to Henty, this was a great book to do it with. It is the story of William Wallace & Robert the Bruce, two exceptional leaders in the First War of Scottish Independence.

Do Hard Things by Alex & Brett Harris
A perfect book that every teen should read! It holds many invaluable truths. The subtitle of the book says it all: A Teenage Rebellion Against Low Expectations.

Basil of Baker Street by Eve Titus
This is one children's book that I will adore forever, now that I have found it. I do so need to read more of little Basil's adventures. {You can read my full review here.}

Miracles on Maple Hill by Virginia Sorensen
Exquisitely delightful! Reminiscent of Laura Ingalls' childhood stories, but set in the time right after WWII ended. I can see myself reading it again sometime!

The Coral Island by R.M. Ballantyne
Heart-pounding suspense with island cannibals and pirate ships. Utter delight and respect for everything God has created. I'm looking forward to more books from Ballantyne.

Christmas with Tucker by Greg Kincaid
This was the perfect addition to my December days. Meshes beautifully with the book "A Dog Named Christmas" by the same author.

Here are some other bloggers who have written end-of-the-year bookish posts:

Jennifer {Blogful of Books}

Eyebright {Defective Compositions}

Katie {Whisperings of the Pen}

Rachel {Young Homemakers}

Favorite Finds #29 {Almost Christmas}

2011-12-23T12:40:00.000-06:00

Just a few favorite Christmas things I've found this past week... Enjoy!

Christmas Book Tree

{Pandora's Box}

23 Days of Handmade Christmas

{Midwestern Moms}

How to Wrap a Cat for Christmas

{Seven Sisters}

I'm Dreaming of a DIY Christmas

{Dealicious Finds}

Writing with Pine Needles: JOY

{Simply Vintagegirl}

Snowman Garland

{Crafts by Amanda}

Merry Christmas!

Pine needles & 'Peace'

2011-12-20T11:14:00.000-06:00

And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.
James 3:18

Let there be peace on earth
And let it begin with me
Let there be peace on earth
The peace that was meant to be
With God as our Father
Brothers all are we
Let me walk with my brother
In perfect harmony.

Let peace begin with me
Let this be the moment now
With every step I take
Let this be my solemn vow
To take each moment
And live each moment
In peace eternally
Let there be peace on earth
And let it begin with me.

Seymour Miller & Jill Jackson
1955 "Let There Be Peace on Earth"

Thank you, Emily Rose, for the splendid idea of writing with pine needles!

Taking a look at these words...

2011-12-14T10:34:00.000-06:00

Time to reveal the answers to those intriguing words from my Dictionary Dash post. Let's begin...

Milquetoast \MILK-toste\
A timid, meek, or unassertive person. (noun)

Milquetoast is a little comical (for me) because it sounds like the words "milk toast"---somehow it sounds about right for a "timid, meek, or unassertive person"---"a milk toast kind of person". I learned from Jenny's comment that there are actually other spellings of the word.

"Don't be a milquetoast," said the young boy to his friend, "the water's not too cold. Come jump in the lake!"

Ferly \FAIR-lee\
Unexpected; strange; unusual. (adj)

A Scottish word from the thirteenth century!

Wee hoverin’, fleein’ ferlie fello’.
(first line of "Ode Tae a Bumble Bee" by Stuart McLean)

Otiose \OH-she-ose\
Producing no useful result; lacking use or effect. (adj)

An dull pencil is an otiose object.

Druthers \DRUHTH-erz\
One's own way, choice, or preference. (noun)

After I learned how this word was formed, it really stuck in my mind better. Druthers is actually a variation of the words "would rather". A person's druthers are the things they would rather do. It came about as a word sometime around 1870.

If I had my druthers, I would curl up with a book tonight.

Concatenate \con-CAT-eh-net\
Linked together. (adj) ... To link together in a series or chain. (verb)

The electrical wiring must be concatenated before the machine will work.

Have you found any new, interesting words lately?

Favorite Finds #28

2011-12-09T14:15:00.000-06:00

Hello readers!

I just wanted to pop in and show you a few of my recent favorite things that I have found around the blog-world. Take a look:

the {holiday sweet swap} link party

{Pressed Down, Shaken Together}

IHeart Holiday Gift Giving

{IHeart Organizing}

Peppermint Wreath

{Procraftination Station}

a flower tutorial

{i love it all}

DIY [Felted] Stocking Stuffers

{Bugs and Fishes}

12 Crafty Days of Christmas

{Happily Mother After}

25 Days of Cookies

{this heart of mine}

And lastly, a couple of my own posts to remind you of:

Sharing Our Bookshelves

{December edition}

Dictionary Dash

Sharing Our Bookshelves {December 2011}

2011-12-02T14:58:00.000-06:00

Here is the book link-up for December!
I'm hoping to see some Christmas-related book posts this month... so if you're posting a holiday book review, a list of favorite holiday reads, or maybe some awesome quotes... just link to your blog post below.

{image source}

I'm going to browse through my list of books I've read this year, and be coming up with my top favorites that I read in 2011. Can't wait to see what I'll come up with. Anyone else want to join me in that?

If you have any book-related blog posts, you are welcome to come back and link up all month long!

Winner Announcement

2011-12-01T12:31:00.002-06:00

Thank you to all who entered in my contest
for the wooden READ or WRITE sign.

And a special thanks to My Heartfelt Designs for the prize!

The winner has been selected!

Congratulations to....

.:. Caroline .:.
{ c.w. frosting }

Again, thanks to everyone else who participated in the giveaway.

If you're interested in buying one of these signs for either yourself or for a gift for a bookworm or aspiring writer you know, they are for sell on Etsy.

Just visit: MyHeartfeltDesigns.etsy.com

A couple November thoughts

2011-11-29T15:13:00.000-06:00

November is coming to an end. And with it, the big month of writing ends. How are you faring with your writing? Have you met your goals for the month? I'm curious to know what kind of progress all my friends have made.

November 30th is also the LAST day to enter in the giveaway for the READ or WRITE sign from My Heartfelt Designs! If you haven't entered yet, be sure to get your name in the contest. Winner will be announced on December 1st!

Dictionary Dash

2011-11-23T06:02:00.004-06:00

I've come across some interesting new words lately. They either have unusual spellings, pronunciations, or definitions.

Take a guess at what these words mean by trying to match them up to their definitions below. All guesses are welcome!

Otiose

Concatenate

Milquetoast

Ferly

Druthers

\OH-she-ose\

\con-CAT-eh-net\

\MILK-toste\

\FAIR-lee\

\DRUHTH-erz\

A timid, meek, or unassertive person. (noun)

Unexpected; strange; unusual. (adj)

Producing no useful result; lacking use or effect. (adj)

One's own way, choice, or preference. (noun)

Linked together. (adj) ... To link together in a series or chain. (verb)

Don't forget to enter in my giveaway for a READ or WRITE sign!

GIVEAWAY: for the writers & the readers

2011-11-14T05:34:00.015-06:00

To make things exciting for November, especially because of the NaNoWriMo hype going around right now....

I'm giving away a simply delightful prize that a lot of you are really going to like. The prize comes from one of my favorite shops on Etsy!

{ THE PRIZE }

A WORD SIGN
from . . .
My Heartfelt Designs

Well, there's more.
The winner can select any of these! It's your choice!

I have one of my own, which I enjoy seeing there on my desk. If you get one of these, I tell you... it makes a good reminder to read or write! You can hang these signs on the wall, or set them on your desk, table, or on a bookshelf!

Made from wood & handpainted

Size varies for each word, but approximately:
10" inches long & 3.5" inches high

Would you get one for yourself, or for a gift for a friend?

Visit My Heartfelt Designs on Etsy to see more items
& to read the details about the prize.

Please fill out the Rafflcopter form below to submit your entries!
Contest ends on November 30. USA & Canada only.

(can't see the form to fill out above? just leave a comment below with your name & email and you'll be entered)

MyWriMo: Day 11 {Special News}

2011-11-11T13:23:00.000-06:00

How are you all faring during November? How much progress have you made in your writing? I'd love to know what you've accomplished, so please share.
I am advancing through my current story. I can't say that I have several thousand words yet, but I like how the story is coming along.

Now for some news you all will enjoy!! > Monday the 14th, here on my blog, I'll be having a giveaway for a special prize!
Remember this lovely "write" reminder on my desk?

The little sign comes from this lovely shop: My Heartfelt Designs
...and look at all these:

You're going to have the chance to win one!! So, make sure to stop by next week.

Favorite Finds #27 {Writing Edition}

2011-11-04T06:14:00.015-05:00

Looking for some writing inspiration this month? Splendid posts about writing can be found at Rachelle's blog, Inspiring Daring. Anytime I visit, she has new thoughts about her latest writing motivations. I've been finding good tidbits in other blogs too, especially in certain posts like this one called Writerly Rambles: Tense, and by scouring the fantastic articles posted on the Southern BelleView blog--I actually just found that place, and it is quite wonderful.

The Author Culture site contains some good thoughts to keep in mind about writing, and I found this post of theirs to be particularly entertaining: Pre-Writing Preparation (read if especially if you need to lighten up a bit before settling down to write). You might also like perusing some of the questions & answers presented on Wordplay, and then read through this article: 5 Fun and Easy Ways to Lengthen Word Count.

There are many many methods of tracking down the perfect character name, but if you need to acquire a name for your character quickly (you can always change out their name later on), then grab one (or a few) from the Random Name Generator.

If you can't put your finger on a certain word you're trying to think of, type the definition into the Reverse Dictionary and it will show you possible choices for a matching word. Handy!

Another writing tool I found recently: The Bookshelf Muse. If you need help describing a scene, a character, an emotion... they have a helpful list for all these things, ways to describe scenes or actions, all packed into their sidebar. For example, look at all the wonderfulness in the entry for bookstore--reading a book in the aisle, the woodsy, dry scent of paper and cardboard, carrying a basket heavy with books. All that and more.

If you're looking for other girls who are writing this November, you can look in my sidebar where I have a list of my blogging friends who are writing this month, whether they're doing Nanowrimo or not. I, for one, enjoy keeping up with everyone's progress.

MyWriMo: Day 1, and Sharing Our Bookshelves {November 2011}

2011-11-01T05:45:00.004-05:00

Today is the start of NaNoWriMo, for many people. For myself, it is the opening day of a month in which I hope to move forward in, concerning my writing. My only goal is to make progress. The focus is not on what my word count will be at the end of these thirty days, but simply on the fact that I did accomplish something. Months have passed since I last tried formulating a story worth writing, and I don't have much to show for in 2011. This is why I would like to set aside this month to have something to remember the year by.

I have a new bit of inspiration for the month too, as you might have seen in the photo here. Glancing at the word "write" on my desk is sure to be a motivation, don't you think?

Throughout November I will probably post here and there about what I'm doing, and I hope to hear what you other writers are accomplishing throughout the month too. You are welcome to link to your posts on the linky below, and we can all click over and read each others' posts. (Remember: Sharing Our Bookshelves linky is all about connecting to readers and writers, so whether you're posting about your November writings, or your recent reads, please feel free to link up, all month long.)

"The great advantage of being a writer is that you can spy on people. You're there, listening to every word, but part of you is observing. Everything is useful to a writer, you see—every scrap, even the longest and most boring of luncheon parties." —Graham Greene, British author

November Writing Plans

2011-10-21T06:02:00.000-05:00

The obvious fact is that November is on its way, which requires plans of action to be made for the tasks of writing throughout this next month.

For me, I don't think that NaNoWriMo would be able to find time to run its course for me this year. What I'm thinking about is still having November to be a month full of writing... it just won't have a 50k novel at the end. So...

Anyone remember last year? To re-introduce the idea: I invited anyone who wanted to join me, to each create our own personal goals of what writing we would like to get done through the month---so that we're not totally left in the dust of our NaNo-ing friends! Well, I'd like to do MyWriMo again for this year. I have some stories I've been thinking about for a while, and I sure would love to get them on paper! I was wondering if anyone else would like to do this with me? The more, the merrier! We could each have our own "MyWriMo". We'll all have different goals. Mine is to finish some stories, so that I'll have some completed projects from this year.

{If you have some ideas for stories (or something bigger like a novel)--maybe you already have something in the works that you'd like to finish up, this could be your motivation. You don't have to commit yourself to the entire month of November either--just take whatever time you'd like in November to do anything you need with your writing.}

If you are going to be posting (or have already posted) about your November writing plans, you might want to come link your posts in my monthly event Sharing Our Bookshelves, and you might find other people doing the same. New links can be added all month long.

To wrap up, if there is anyone up for MyWriMo 2011, I'd love to hear what you plan on doing yourself!

Book Review: Basil of Baker Street

2011-10-07T05:23:00.014-05:00

Basil of Baker Street

written by Eve Titus
illustrated by Paul Galdone
96 pages
originally published in 1958

"The Mystery of the Missing Twins could never have been solved by an ordinary detective."

(...that is the first sentence of the cutest mouse book ever... )

Basil is a mouse with a nose for solving problems, just like his hero, Sherlock Holmes. In this story, Basil and his comrade, "Dr. Dawson", are presented with The Mystery of the Missing Twins---a quaint storyline that all little children will love---and adults will too. The author, Eve Titus, so clearly depicts the true Holmes through Basil's demeanor, thinking patterns, and mindset. A story just can't get any better than a mouse who learned his skill of deducting by listening at the very feet of Sherlock Holmes!

Along with Basil and Dr. Dawson, there is also their "mousekeeper" who's name is "Mrs. Judson". They live in a mouse village called---well, the village name is so cute and Holmes related, but I'll let you find out the name for yourself.

This is a book I wish I would have known about years ago, so that it could have been a childhood favorite growing up. At least I have found it now. The lovely story and the delightful illustrations of this vintage book create something to cherish. If you feel silly getting the book from your library, then just grab a younger sibling and read it to them. Besides you never know what little ones you may be able to start on the trail of Mr. Holmes himself.

Basil of Baker Street is the most adorable detective story... I mean, what other detective could console a distressed mother whose children are lost, by saying: "I can offer you only crumbs of comfort." Yes, just what a mouse should say!

The book was first published in 1958 and has gone through many editions since then. If you like old vintage books, with charming illustrations, I'm pretty sure you'd like this one.

The Author: Eve Titus was an American children's author, born in 1922. She wrote at least twenty books in her lifetime---five of which are about Basil, the mouse.

Sharing Our Bookshelves {October 2011}

2011-10-03T05:48:00.001-05:00

Welcome!
Come on over to the bookcase with me.There are many bookshelves waiting for us to browse through. Here's a hefty volume from Dickens, or would you prefer Little Women instead? Oh, and never mind my little, white dog curled up there--even with those teeth, she's quite harmless I assure you. I see you have a book in hand now, so please do take a seat and enjoy one of these scrumptious cookies. Now tell me, what books lately have you swept through the pages of? I'm awfully curious to know, even if you have but a moment.

My bookish friends, if you've written anything on your blog concerning the topic of books, you are all welcome to link up to your post(s) and share with the rest of us here in the bookcase. And if you must go now, then do come back and join me throughout the month, if you have anything new to add to the linky.

Sharing Our Bookshelves {September 2011}

2011-09-01T15:20:00.000-05:00

Time for a new, fresh link-up. I always enjoy reading through your posts as you continue to connect your blog posts through the whole month. If you have posted anything on your blog about books, reading, writing, etc, you are welcome to link up.

Dictionary Dash Answers

2011-08-27T16:47:00.000-05:00

Thanks for all your comments on last week's Dictionary Dash post. If you wanted to see the answers (and if you haven't already looked them up in the dictionary!), then here they are.

Burgeon \BUR-jen\
To send forth new growth; to grow and expand rapidly. (verb)

Ascertain \a-ser-TANE\
To find out or learn with certainty. (verb)

Tyro \TIE-row\
A beginner in learning; novice. (noun)

Nepotism \NEH-peh-ti-zem\
Favoritism (as in appointment to a job) based on kinship. (noun)

Dearth \derth\
An inadequate supply; lack; famine. (noun)

Have you found any new, interesting words lately?

Favorite Finds #26

2011-08-19T16:37:00.000-05:00

Here's some "Favorite Finds" links that I have found particularly interesting to read this past week.

These first four all come from the Inspiring Daring blog. It's a wonderful series of posts if you have time to read them all.

Mrs. Noah Series, Part One

Mrs. Noah Series, Part Two

Mrs. Noah Series, Part Three

Mrs. Noah Series, Part Four

And here's a few more from other blogs which you should check out too.

Doubt: That Horrible, Creeping Thing

{ whisperings of the pen }

diy: scrap busting pot holders

{ my girl thursday }

Words in Time

{ scribbles and ink stains }

Dictionary Dash

2011-08-17T11:05:00.000-05:00

Here's a quick little puzzle for my readers. Take a guess at what these words mean by trying to match them up to their definitions below. All guesses are welcome! The answers will be revealed next week.

Burgeon

Ascertain

Tyro

Nepotism

Dearth

\BUR-jen\

\a-ser-TANE\

\TIE-row\

\NEH-peh-ti-zem\

\derth\

A beginner in learning; novice. (noun)

Favoritism (as in appointment to a job) based on kinship. (noun)

To send forth new growth; to grow and expand rapidly. (verb)

An inadequate supply; lack; famine. (noun)

To find out or learn with certainty. (verb)

Book Blogger Appreciation Week

2011-08-12T17:07:00.000-05:00

Hi, readers!

I just found out some great info on something called Book Blogger Appreciation Week. There are nominations currently going on to vote for many categories which all pertain to books... the voting ends on August 13, so there's not much time left. There are several categories to vote for your favorite, whoever that may be. Best Book Blog Meme, Favroite Character from a book, Best Poetry Blog, Best Classics Book Blog, Best Published Author Blog... oh, the list goes on! There's many more categories to nominate your favorite blogs for. I went through the categories myself and submitted links to many of the book blogs I enjoy reading.

To nominate your favorite blogs, go here:
bookbloggerappreciationweek.com/2011/07/the-2011-awards-process

The first bullet point on the page contains a link to the nomination form. Fill in your profile with name & email. Click the link which says "Back", then click on the nomination link. You're ready to start typing in the blogs that you'd like to vote for!

Thanks to Kate who first told me about Book Blogger Appreciation Week and who nominated my monthly event Sharing Our Bookshelves as Best Book Blogging Event.

Remember, if you want to get your entries in, you should enter ASAP since the last day to enter is August 13th.

Sharing Our Bookshelves {August 2011}

2011-08-02T06:04:00.011-05:00

What good books have you been reading lately?

If you've posted anything about books recently on your blog, I hope you'll feel welcome to come link up your posts here, and "share your bookshelves" so that visitors can drop in. Please link up anything from book reviews to reading lists, and even things you're writing. I enjoy browsing through all your posts myself and I know a lot of other people do too.

To share my favorite moment of reading from this past month:

It was one of those old shops of which there are, still many examples surviving in London, in which the room was so small and the books so many that to move a step was to imperil your safety. Books ran in thick, tight rows from floor to ceiling everywhere, were piled in stacks upon the ground and hung in perilous heaps over chairs and window ledges.

taken from "Mr. Oddy"
a short story by Hugh Walpole

What has been your favorite moment of reading lately?

Impossible is potential.

2011-07-26T10:26:00.001-05:00

Book Review: Rider in the Dark

2011-07-22T06:56:00.013-05:00

Rider in the Dark

written by Victoria Holmes
320 pages
published in 2004

What started as an interesting horse story for me, ended in an thrilling tale I wanted to read again.

Helena is a girl who lives in Dorset, England in 1740. Her daily life usually consists of riding horses, and lately, everyone is preparing for the local Bridport horse race. There's a new addition to her family's stables... Oriel, a horse she can't stay away from, even though he is unbroken and dangerous. Her main goal is to prove to everyone that Oriel is not as wild as he seems... and she will take great risks to show this.

Her father is the leader in their quaint village, and even though Roseby is a small place, it has plenty of crimes taking place. The two most repeated criminals throughout the book are the smugglers (villagers who collect ship cargo without paying taxes) and the wreckers (villagers who deliberately crash a ship, murder the sailors, and steal the cargo).

Although the wreckers are notably worse, smugglers are punished on the same level. Lady Helena never gave much thought to these criminals until she discovers that the people she trusts the best are involved. She doesn't want to lose these friends to the death penalty, so what is there to do?

~*~click here to read my review of another Victoria Holmes book.

Favorite Finds #25

2011-07-08T09:36:00.000-05:00

I have come across several posts within this past week written by other bloggers which I immensely enjoyed reading. So I wanted to share these "Favorite Finds" here, in case anyone else found an interest in reading (or at least peeking!) at what these other girls have written recently.

DIY Book Cover and Bookmark

{ Twig & Thistle }

God is in Every Tomorrow

{ Young Homemakers }

The End of a Chapter

{ Stepping Heavenward }

Cabochon Bookmarks

{ eighteen25 }

I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say

{ Old Country Cottage }

Northanger Abbey Giveaway

{ Defective Compositions }

Vintage Homes: The Mayor’s House

{ Simply Vintagegirl }

Sharing Our Bookshelves {July 2011}

2011-07-01T05:45:00.014-05:00

What's on your bookshelf right now?

Since June's "Sharing Our Bookshelves" post, I've read quite a bit myself.
To share what has recently passed through my own bookshelf:

The thrilling adventures of "Captain Blood" by Rafael Sabitini (1922). A simple doctor living in an Irish village is falsely accused of treason. As punishment, he is sent to a Barbados plantation as a slave. Thereafter, he makes his way into a pirate... yes, it all makes for a very exciting novel.

I visited 221B Baker Street, London, this past month. Twice, actually. This was while reading "Adventure of the Copper Beeches" and also "Silver Blaze"--both excellent Sherlock Holmes stories.

A trip to the library allowed me pick up a couple other books I've been wanting to read. "I am Lavina Cumming" by Susan Lowell was one. In short, it's about a young girl from a family of Scottish heritage, living in the Arizona desert, who can speak both English & Spanish. After moving to California, she experiences the 1906 San Fransisco earthquake.

"Rider in the Dark" by Victoria Holmes is a wonderful, suspenseful book (all about horses!) set in the 1700's of England. Complete book review will be coming soon on this one!

So, what is on your Summer Reading List? Are you tackling some thicker books during this school break?

If you have any new or recent book-related blog posts during the whole month of July, you are welcome to come link up below. Book reviews, summer reading plans, lists, pictures... you name it! Feel free to share anything about books on your blog, and link up here so others can read your posts.

Book Review: Behind Rebel Lines

2011-06-27T11:57:00.008-05:00

Behind Rebel Lines
"The Incredible Story of Emma Edmonds, Civil War Spy"

written by Seymour Reit
130 pages
originally published in 1988 (re-published since then)

A person requires much courage if they are going to become a soldier.
It took a woman of great courage & bravery to freely decide to join the Union army of the Civil War.

Although most people didn't know at the time, several women (at least 400) joined the army undercover during the Civil War, and no one ever suspected it. At the age of 21, that is what Emma Edmonds, a Canadian-born, did. This book fictionalizes her true story.Emma Edmonds enlisted under the name of Franklin Thompson, but it didn't stop there. The journey of her first alias led her into becoming a reliable spy for the Union. She created new characters for herself on almost every mission the army sent her on, so that her old characters wouldn't be recognized by the Rebel army.

Bridget O'Shea, Irish peddler.

Cuff, freed slave.

Charles Mayberry, detective.

Those are just a few of her undercover names & disguises. The lengths Emma went to in order to keep her true identity a secret for years from either army... Amazing.

Behind Rebel Lines is one author's account of how the real Emma Edmond's story came to be. It is a simple, easy book to read, but I won't be forgetting what I learned.

Recommended for ages 8-12, and up.

Sharing Our Bookshelves {June 2011}

2011-06-06T06:37:00.001-05:00

This is a new edition of the monthly round of "Sharing Our Bookshelves." You are all welcome to link up your book reviews here--or anything else you've posted on your blog recently pertaining to BOOKS! This is a link-up for us blog readers to find out what is on each other's shelves currently--whether in the reading or the writing aspect.

So... what is in your bookshelf?

I'm looking forward to seeing what you all link up in your posts on the list below.

Favorite Finds #24

2011-05-27T06:15:00.006-05:00

With this week of May coming to a close, I wanted to share some of the lovelies I've encountered on various blogs throughout this past week. Hope you enjoy!

Write Now 2011
{a complete writing program}

Style : Color : Clean Lines - Vintage Typewriters
{Handmadeology}

Thinkin’ Through My Fingers
{A City on a Hill}

Has it Changed Your Life?
{Looking Out My Backdoor}

Chalkboard Globe Project
{My Hoot Designs}

1 Free Book when your Kids Read 10
{Clever Housewife}

Green Smoothies
{Simply Vintagegirl}

Success
{Inspiring Daring}

Library Cards (print your own)
{eighteen25}

Do you have your own favorite finds?

Set your own conditions...

2011-05-24T05:58:00.003-05:00

Book Review: A Tale of Two Cities

2011-05-09T06:22:00.020-05:00

A Tale of Two Cities
written by Charles Dickens
about 300 pages
originally published in 1858

"Recalled to life," is the strange message that Mr. Jerry Lorry of Tellson's Bank gives to the messenger on horseback waiting in the dark. "Recalled to life" is the running theme of the book, that each of its characters encounter. Originally, the message was stated for the case of Dr. Manette, a man hidden in the deep folds of the Bastille for 18 long years---his relatives never cognizant of his imprisonment, and thus presumed him dead many years ago. When Lucie, his daughter & only living shred of a family, discovers that he is alive at an innkeeper's lodgings in Paris, she immediately attempts to rescue him from his current horrible state she then finds him in.

Fast forward a little bit through the story, and the phrase "Recalled to life" fits yet again into a young man's life, a friend of the Manette's, whose name is Charles Darnay and has to endure his own hardship. The phrase is not applied to his situation, but works just the same. His fate includes being sent to the Guillotine, the main execution process used during the French Revolution. As trial after trial unfurls, what will be left of these men when it is all said and done?

This story begins in "the year of Our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy-five"--a few years prior to the beginning of the French Revolution. As the story progresses, the precautions and conflicts of the French citizens lead up to the full revolution, including the final storming of the Bastille and afterwards.

My personal thoughts:
I'd been wanting to read "A Tale of Two Cities" for a while, and I'm so glad that I did. The story had its peaks, which interested me greatly as I read each chapter. In reading this book, I realized what a sense of humor Charles Dickens truly has, as illustrated in a few favorite passages I immensely enjoyed. Occasionally, slow-going parts of the story paused my reading for a little while, but I pushed through, and in the end, it was truly worth it. A character worth mentioning is Sydney Carton--although his original position in the story had him as a rather minor person, it was only in the final chapters that he made his path clear. I didn't notice him much through the course of the story, but after reading the ending, he now ranks as my very favorite of the book. It was his actions, as selfless or as selfish as they were, in those last 4 chapters, which made the entire book a worthwhile task now satisfactorily accomplished.

My recommendation:
When the entire book has been finished, it is great, but to get there, it includes very hard reading. Everyone could enjoy it . . . but no matter what age, you'll probably want to grab a dictionary while you're at it.

"It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair, we had everything before us, we had nothing before us, we were all going direct to Heaven, we were all going direct the other way—in short, the period was so far like the present period, that some of its noisiest authorities insisted on its being received, for good or for evil, in the superlative degree of comparison only." -----the very first sentence of the book

Sharing Our Bookshelves {May 2011}

2011-05-04T06:28:00.009-05:00

Welcome to a new round of "Sharing Our Bookshelves." You are all welcome to link up your book reviews here--or anything else you've posted on your blog recently pertaining to BOOKS! This is a link-up for us blog readers to find out what is on each other's shelves currently--whether in the reading or the writing aspect.

So... what is in your bookshelf?

I'm looking forward to seeing what you all link up in your posts on the list below.

A link back (from your blog) is always appreciated.
Buttons are also available for the taking.

...{Final instructions are below}...

{Free Ebook} 31 Days to Clean by Sarah Mae

2011-04-27T16:13:00.000-05:00

Hi Readers,
If you're popping in to read this post on the 27th, you might be interested in getting a free copy of Sarah Mae's new Ebook, "31 Days to Clean: Having a Martha House the Mary Way." Looks like a good read!

Find out about the book at 31daystoclean.com -- for today only get a FREE download the of book by going here.

Favorite Finds #23

2011-04-22T06:39:00.006-05:00

A few weeks have passed since I last posted some Favorite Finds on my blog. Lately I have found some interesting links I wanted to share. Please enjoy!

Flirty Apron {Cupcake Design} Giveaway @ Pixel Berry Pie {my other blog}

Names…do they matter? @ My Camera, Pen & I

Kids aged 5-12 can earn FREE chapter books @ Scholastic.com

Georgie & Sky are both hosting a new writing link-up called Beautiful People.

Free Kids Audio Books: Huge List @ Saving with Sybil

Did R M Ballantyne Know Robert Louis Stevenson? @ The Ballantyne Blog

A Chest of Hopes: Preserving Old Photos @ Feelin' Feminine

Lessons from Sherlock @ Looking Out My Backdoor

...and lastly, if you want to browse a few more blogs, I highly recommend taking a look through the several blog posts that have been linked up on Sharing Our Bookshelves on-going event. If you have any book-related posts on your blog, you are welcome to link yours up too!

Correct Meanings to those 5 words

2011-04-20T14:51:00.000-05:00

Thanks to everyone who left their guesses on last week's Puzzle of Interesting Words.I have the answers below, so you can find out the right word definitions.Congratulations to both Emily and Redwriter for getting all the answers correct!

Oppugn \uh-PYOON\    To fight against; to call in question. (verb)

Snollygoster \SNOL-ee-gos-ter\    A clever, unscrupulous, shrewd person, especially a politician. (noun)

Eleemosynary \el-uh-MOS-uh-ner-ee\    Of or relating to alms, charity. (adj)

Higgler \HIG-lur\    An itinerant dealer or peddler. (noun)

Nudiustertian \nu-di-uhs-TUR-shuhn\    Of or relating to the day before yesterday. (adj)

Puzzle of Interesting Words

2011-04-13T10:11:00.000-05:00

I have a little puzzle for you to today. It contains just 5 words.These words may seem very unique in their own way. They look (and sound) a little odd to be in our English language... but they are real words, I can assure you--with real definitions.

Take a guess at what these words mean by trying to match them up to their definitions below. All guesses are welcome... the answers will be revealed next week.

Eleemosynary

Higgler

Nudiustertian

Oppugn

Snollygoster

\el-uh-MOS-uh-ner-ee

\HIG-lur\

\nu-di-uhs-TUR-shuhn\

\uh-PYOON\

\SNOL-ee-gos-ter\

To fight against; to call in question. (verb)

Of or relating to the day before yesterday. (adj)

A clever, unscrupulous, shrewd person. (noun)

An itinerant dealer or peddler. (noun)

Of or relating to alms, charity. (adj)

Sharing Our Bookshelves {April 2011}

2011-04-01T06:31:00.011-05:00

Welcome to the monthly round of "Sharing Our Bookshelves." The purpose of this blogging event is to discover what currently resides on other people's "bookshelves"... for example, feel free to tell about what great books you've been reading lately (book reviews, if you want), or the progress you've been making in your writing, or whatever else is book-related for you. Feel free to link up any of your recent blog posts all through the month, and you can also "browse" around and see what everyone else has linked up too.

So, what have you been reading?
Lately I've been enjoying "A Tale of Two Cities". It is absolutely wonderful. Dickens makes me laugh sometimes. Although his writing is quite serious, abrupt & silly scenarios appear once in a while, which just make me laugh inside. Take, for example, the following snippet from Chapter 7:

"His morning's chocolate could not so much as get into the throat of Monseigneur, without the aid of four strong men besides the Cook.
Yes. It took four men, all four ablaze with gorgeous decoration, and the Chief of them unable to exist with fewer than two gold watches in his pocket, emulative of the noble and chaste fashion set by Monseigneur, to conduct the happy chocolate to Monseigneur's lips. One lacquey carried the chocolate-pot into the sacred presence; a second, milled and frothed the chocolate with the little instrument he bore for that function; a third, presented the favoured napkin; a fourth (he of the two gold watches), poured the chocolate out. It was impossible for Monseigneur to dispense with one of these attendants on the chocolate and hold his high place under the admiring Heavens. Deep would have been the blot upon his escutcheon if his chocolate had been ignobly waited on by only three men;
he must have died of two."

.:. A Tale of Two Cities .:.

I'm still trying to figure out why that paragraph is in the book... but, no matter. It makes me laugh each time I re-read it. {Obviously, the previous sentence confesses that I have indeed read it multiple times.}

So then! I'm looking forward to seeing what you all link up in your posts on the list below.A link back to my blog (from your post) is always appreciated. Buttons are also available for the taking.

Click here to get the code for one of the buttons.

...{Final instructions are below}...
I cannot wait to see what is on your bookshelf!

Lists about Books

2011-03-21T11:26:00.000-05:00

Today starts a new meme over at the Young Ladies Christian Fellowship. Check out their blog to see lots of book-related posts this month. I participated a couple of weeks ago in their Snapshots of Favorite Books.

This week they have a new link-up for Lists about Books. I'm joining up and my post is below...

For my entry, I have 3 different types of things I'd like to share.

#1. Online Book Lists
These lists are great, especially if you're looking for books that belong in a particular grade-level, or for family reading.

1000 Good Books List (This huge, grade-by-grade book list was compiled by a group of homeschooling mothers.)

More than Books (On this page you’ll find wonderful Christian book lists for all ages: the little ones, 8 years & older, 12 years & older, and high school.)

Glencoe Literature Study Guides (Great study guides that go with several popular books.)

Sonlight Recommended Books (Select a grade/age level, and then read through the "Individual Items" for book titles.)

#2. Book Blogs
Some of my favorite blogs pertain to the subject of books--not surprisingly. Below are a few of them. I'm sure these girls would love it if you stopped by their blogs!

Just a Trifle

Castles, Quills, and Cameras

Blogful of Books

Christ is Write

Before My Penn Has Gleaned

My Camera and I

Literary Pursuits

Novel Pretender

Ashen Skye Life

Rose's Daring Adventure

The Book Blog

The Ladies Library

Whisperings of the Pen

The Parchment Girl

#3. Download Free E-books
Searching for e-books is a great method to access old classics. I've found that if you can't find the e-book you're looking for on a website, it's good to check around on other sites.

Open Library

Read Print

Planet eBook

Globusz

The Online Books Page

Classic Authors

The Literature Network

Wikisource

Free Kindle E-books

Smashwords

Children's Literature Project

Many Books

Project Gutenberg

Literature Post

eBooks Read

Do you have any favorite book lists, blogs, or other places to get free e-books? Please feel free to share your thoughts!

A word from Thomas Jefferson...

2011-03-18T06:29:00.003-05:00

Book Review: Heart of Fire

2011-03-14T06:37:00.008-05:00

Heart of Fire

written by Victoria Holmes
352 pages
published in 2006

Maddie is a 15-year-old girl who has lived in her grandparents' country estate in England, ever since her parents died. Her older sister, Louisa, also lives with them--but Theo, their brother is fighting in the Great War (WWII).

The main plot of the book begins when Theo suddenly returns from the war--which is a wonderful surprise for the family. It has been so many years, and Theo has changed so much in that time. He awkwardly tries fitting in with their life at Sefton Park. However, most of the time, Theo is out in the stable with the horses, instead of being with the family. Because he distances himself like that, Maddie attempts to become close with him in his own world. She takes the leap to finally show an interest in horses, so that she can get to know her brother.

She slowly becomes more and more attached to her brother until she uncovers something he has been hiding from the family. It is intriguing and astonishing--it even caught me by surprise! However, by the time Maddie finds out Theo's secret, if she tells everyone it will wreck all the horse riding plans that she and her brother previously had. How much farther will she go without telling? What kind of trouble is it going to cost her?

"Heart of Fire" is a excellent story, and revolves a lot around horses. So, if you're a horse fanatic and love historical fiction, I'm sure this is the book for you.

~*~click here to read more of my book reviews.

~*~this post is linked to: Book Love

~*~at the end of March, will also be linked to: YLCF

Books to Treasure

2011-03-09T06:23:00.023-06:00

"March of Books" is something the Young Ladies Christian Fellowship's blog is doing for their 2nd time around. I was able to participate in the fun last March too, so I was excited when I found out they are doing it again. Check out their blog to see lots of book-related posts on their blog this month. One of the things that you can do right now is to take part in Snapshots of Favorite Books. You can take a look at everyone's photos on the YLCF site. I'm joining up and my post is below...

Sharing about books is my passion. I do it all the time on my blog. However, it was hard for me to decide which book to share about today. Picking one is impossible! Finally, it came to me---I'll share about those special books I have that I will keep forever. They are stories that I know I will read again and again throughout my life. I'm quite sure you know the kind that I'm talking about.

{Currently, this is my treasured stack of books.}

You can't go wrong with having "Little Women" as a part of your special books. Especially if it is a complete & unabridged, hardback copy with charming pictures of the lovely March girls.

"Les Miserables" is in there too--yes, that includes all 1463 pages of my copy.

...and it includes of the fine print that comes with such a book as "Les Miserables". Just seeing the photo of the inside pages makes me want to start reading the awesome book.

"Greyfriars Bobby" ~ possibly my VERY favorite book ever.

"Anne of Green Gables" ~ I enjoyed all 8 of my Anne books. They are truly one of a kind.

"Elsie Dinsmore" ~ I'm happy to say I do own all 28 of the original classics, although I'm not quite finished reading them all. As soon as I do finish the series, I know I will start it all over again.

So there they are. I think I'll stick with these books for a while, and maybe add some more books to my "keep forever" list.

What are the books that you will always treasure?

Sharing Our Bookshelves {March 2011}

2011-03-01T05:17:00.032-06:00

Being pleasantly surprised with the outcome of last month's "Sharing Our Bookshelves" I am now happy to announce today as the first day of March--more importantly, the first day of a new "Sharing Our Bookshelves" linky.

You can start right away by linking up any of your recent blog posts that are about books... whether about your current writing projects, what you're reading, etc. As the blog list grows, we will all enjoy taking a look at your blogs.
At the bottom of this post is where you can all congregate and join in by linking up.

.:. Sharing what's been in my own bookshelf this past month .:.

I accomplished reading 3 books in February. One of them was The Coral Island written by R.M. Ballantyne. What an adventure that was!

That book may have been written 153 years ago... but the author's sweet descriptions, the heart-pounding suspense of island cannibals, and the rich talk of God had me intrigued so greatly throughout this book.
Looking forward to the next time I read another Ballantyne book.

I'm sure that we all will enjoy coming over to the list of blogs and being able to "browse" through everyone else's "bookshelves"...

A link back to my blog (from your post) is always appreciated. Blog buttons are also available for the taking.

Click here to get the code for one of the buttons.

...{Final instructions are below}...
I am looking forward to seeing what you link up!

Favorite Finds #22

2011-02-18T06:08:00.007-06:00

Sweet, Sweet Finds... - Blessed Femina
Lovely vintage things from the thrift store.

The Content Pillar -- for daughters - Raising Homemakers
A new post from Breezy... wise words to think about.

Farmgirl Treasures and a Giveaway - Seven Sisters
A giveaway for some delightful stationery from the sisters' shop.

I am alive. - Walking in Thy Truth
Some inspiring, happy words.

Free Online Curriculum For Homeschoolers - Homeschool Highschool
Lots and lots of helpful website links!

Also, anytime you want, you can sign up on The Books Of Old Reading Challenge that's running on the Ladies Library. The plan is to read your selection of 5 books written before the 1950. More details here and Sign up here.

Before I close this post, I also wanted to include some links of other friends who do a similar thing as my Favorite Finds. They also share their choice of links to other websites, which I enjoy browsing myself.

Friday Link-Up - Young Homemakers

Good Finds Friday - BareFoot Days

Friday's Fave Five - Born Again & Blessed

A Tale from the Snowstorm

2011-02-15T05:58:00.026-06:00

One of the my favorite things about the startling blizzard that recently passed though our area was...

...this pair of mourning doves.

They sat together, right outside of our living room front window.
(the perfect place for me to stay cozy inside and take pictures
of the outdoor action)

We first noticed the pair sitting outside the window before 9 o'clock that morning.

The doves continued to stay as the thick snow landed on their backs.
Occasionally they would shake cold, white fluffiness off their necks.

This one particular birdie did not seem to mind that is was quite literally
being buried in the snow.
I felt sorry for it, since it must have been so cold.

The snow kept piling up... and covering this poor dove.
The second bird moved about a bit more.

For at least 5 hours, these birdies endured the cold, wet snow
building up around them. I returned to the window at about 2 o'clock in the afternoon, to check on them again.

The two mourning doves had left...
leaving an empty spot in the fresh snow
and a sad place in my heart.

Favorite Finds #21

2011-02-11T06:11:00.003-06:00

Free Online Sewing Class (starts February 16th at 3pm CST) - Yellow Tennessee

Six Angles "Life, from six unique perspectives." - (1 new photo, 6 days a week, from 6 different photographers)

Pet Poetry Contest (deadline is February 14 at 5pm EST) - for 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade students
Have any younger siblings that would like to enter?

Helping Your Child Find Wonder in Mathematics - Looking Out My Backdoor

Apothecary Label Hand Towels: Free Digital Downloads - Just Something I Made

Also doing some Favorite Finds this week is.... Elisabeth. You'll want to check out her links too!

Sharing Our Bookshelves {February 2011} - Also, anytime this month, you can still link up your blog posts here for "Sharing Our Bookshelves". Any of your book-related posts are welcome.

Favorite Finds #20

2011-02-04T05:46:00.001-06:00

Below are links to my favorite finds of the last week.

Quiet winter days ~ from "A Bowl of Moss & Pebbles"
Breezy's thoughts upon the snow, including her delightful illustrations.

Treasures of Darkness ~ from "Rose's Daring Adventure"
Lovely poetic thoughts from Rachelle.

Creamy Strawberry Dessert ~ from "Marie-Madeline Studio"
Oh so scrumptious! I want to taste some.

i have a pet tiger. ~ from "IrishGirl"
Cute kitties do look like tigers, don't they?

Stretching The Imagination ~ from "Christ is Write"
Warm-up writing exercises and such.

in a red sorta mood ~ from "Ooooooh la la!"
Some splendidly red objects to gaze upon.

Why I Write ~ from "Rose's Daring Adventure"
Another post about writing which I was completely absorbed in.

Also, Elisabeth and Hannah Grace have each recently posted some of their Favorite Finds, so be sure to check out their links too!

Did you find any wonderful blog posts to read?

Sharing Our Bookshelves {February 2011}

2011-02-01T05:59:00.022-06:00

Today starts a brand new month. Today also begins something new for you. I've been wanting to introduce this for a while now, and I am quite excited to finally launch it. Hope you all will enjoy the ride with me!

"Sharing Our Bookshelves" is a new way for us book readers and aspiring writers to get to know each other a little better, to find new friends, and to discover book-ish blogs that are already out there, waiting to be found.

Who enjoys being able to share with other people about books, by writing reviews?

How many books have you read in the last month? (or week?)

Do you like sharing about your current story, novel, or poem that you're writing?

Please do feel free to raise your hand, or say 'Aye!' to any of these questions.

For those reasons (and more) I want to introduce "Sharing Our Bookshelves". So that we can browse each other's bookshelves... and find out more about each other!

So how does this work? It is so simple, but I hope we'll learn a lot through it.Every month, there will be a new post on "In the Bookcase" with a fresh linky sign-up in it. I want to encourage anyone who has posted on their blogs about anything book-related to come join the linky list and connect your blog post. Myself and many of my blog readers would love to see what other people are posting about.

No matter what day you write up a book-related blog post, there should always be a linky here waiting for you to joing, since a new one begins every month and stretches to the last day of the month (and then a new one will start the next day). You're welcome to leave multiple links to your blog posts throughout the course of a month as well. What do you need to join?--Any blog post about what you think that other book readers and aspiring writers would be interested in (this could be a post you already planned out, or something along the lines of the questions mentioned above. If you have any questions, just drop me a line.

I'm sure that we all will enjoy coming over to the list of blogs and be able to "browse" through everyone else's "bookshelves"...

A link back to my blog (from your post) is always appreciated. Blog buttons are also available for the taking.

Click here to get the code for one of the buttons.

...{Final instructions are below}...
I am looking forward to seeing what you link up!

To address what is coming. . .

2011-01-26T05:43:00.005-06:00

Something new is in the works for you who are "In the Bookcase."

For just a tiny smidge of an explanation for what I mean....

There's probably one of three reasons why you're here, reading this post on my blog right now.

a) You love falling into a good book.
b) Writing is how you breathe.
c) Or you're a fanatic about both of the above.

What's your answer?

Whichever way it is, I'm sure you're going to enjoy the next new thing to be introduced here on my blog.

Check back on Tuesday, February 1st for details.
That is when it all begins.

6 important questions

2011-01-24T05:10:00.004-06:00

View more of my favorite quotes.

Favorite Finds #19

2011-01-21T05:43:00.008-06:00

Coming to the end of the third week in January now.... time for a new Favorite Finds post to show you what I've been reading the past few days.

cute-NESS ~ The Last Rose of Summer
An entire blog post dedicated to a special store in Scotland, appropriately named Ness... such delightful clothes!

use [your] words. ~ the Mrs.
Wonderful post I just happened across... all about WORDS.

The Best of Betty Crocker 2010 ~ free download! Scrumptious recipes.

Going Green ~ Urban Comfort
Such lovely furniture! ~ "eco-friendly design and creative upcycling"

Practical Simplicity - 3rd week of givewaways on Miss Antoinette's blog.
This time it's a subscription to "The Kings Blooming Rose Magazine". Contest ends January 22.

the joy of LOVE ~
Free Photography Class
~ every day in February

Book Review: Greyfriars Bobby

2011-01-19T05:31:00.021-06:00

Greyfriars Bobby

written by Eleanor Atkinson

220 pages
originally published in 1912

Bobby is a Skye Terrier who makes his abode in Greyfriars, Scotland. (When you say his name, make sure to pronounce it in a British/Scottish accent. Sounds better like that, of course.) This happy "little ruffian of a terrier" lived during Queen Victoria's reign--his true story begins in 1858 and takes the course of many years thereafter. Bobby has a very courageous story...

"It was a notable feat for a small creature whose tufted legs were not morethan six inches in length, whose thatch of long hair almost swept the roadway and caught at every burr and bramble, and who was still so young that his nose could not be said to be educated."

The most important factor in Bobby's little life is Auld Jock, his constant companion and master. However, in the words of Auld Jock, "Bobby isna ma ain dog."--'Tis a sad fact, but true. Bobby is really a stray, although he knows with all his heart where his loyalties reside. Auld Jock and Bobby only have each other to rely on--no one else is let into their close-knit friendship.

"A hap, an' a stap, an' a loup, an' in ye gang. Loup in, laddie."

The Scottish accent and words grow on you as the book progresses. The glossary in the back is the only thing that guided me through some of the complicated conversations.

Bobby's merry life comes to an abrupt halt when the unthinkable happens. The very thing that made and completed his life is taken away. To other people, Auld Jock was just a shepherd, who nobody really remembers... except for one important friend. This is loyalty of a dog at its finest.

Greyfriars Bobby was written by Eleanor Atkinson in 1912. She lived in Indiana and was an author, journalist, and teacher. It is known that she at least visited Edinburgh once, giving her a starting place to write an account of this true story. Her version of Greyfriars Bobby was originally written for adults, but any age would enjoy the precious story. I think it is wonderful and delightful. Quite possibly it is my absolute favorite book.

{a photo of Bobby's statue in Greyfriars Kirkyard,
which was originally created in 1872,
and completely restored in 1985}

Download the Greyfriars Bobby e-book by clicking here. You can find more information about the author by reading this biography, reading her article on Wikipedia, and also by discovering more about this dog's legacy.

~*~click here to read more of my book reviews.

~*~this post is linked to: Book Love

Favorite Finds #18

2011-01-14T09:06:00.001-06:00

I have a few links to share with you again this Friday. I hope you'll find something of interest below... I enjoyed reading all of these!

Elisabeth's "Favorite Finds #1" {Blogging Beth}
For my first link, Elisabeth did her own favorite finds post, which I was excited to hear about!! Make sure to take a look at her links too.

The Pursuit of Holiness by Jerry Bridges - Free Audiobook Download
This was one of my favorite books to read in 2010... here's a chance for anyone interested to get a free audio download of it! (until the end of January)

Precious Stains {Raising Homemakers}
A wonderful post to read!

Charles Dickens {Whisperings of the Pen}
Just by seeing the title, you can tell that this one is obviously a delightful post...

“It’s tea time!” Giveaway #2 {Practical Simplicity}
My friend, Antoinette, is giving away some lovely items each week of January. Go see what she's giving away for week 2.

"huge giveaway!" {Life is Too Short Not to Wear Red Shoes}
Another friend, Polka Dot, is having a big giveaway with lots of necklaces, earrings, and many other cute items to win.

"The Books Of Old" Reading Challenge

2011-01-12T05:45:00.009-06:00

Hi Readers,
I'm excited to introduce something new that my friend Grace is doing. To get right on to the point, it is called "The Books of Old Reading Challenge." Sounds interesting already, no?

The simple instructions she gives are "The challenge is to pick 1 to 5 books written before the year 1950. List the books on your blog, then link up your post to the linky."

So, the challenge lasts through the entire year of 2011. I already have lots of books I want to read this year... most of which are probably written before 1950... well, even written before 1900. Below I have put together my 5 books I definitely want to read. I look forward to checking each one off as I get to read it sometime.

1. Sign of Four by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (1890)

2. The Story Girl by L.M. Montgomery (1911)

3. The Coral Island by R.M. Ballantyne (1857)

4. Rose in Bloom by Louisa May Alcott (1876)

5. Johnny Tremain by Esther Forbes (1943)

What books will you choose to read
this year?

If you'd like to join the challenge, read the rules on Grace's blog (click on the links below), then come up with your book list. I'd like to know if anyone is going to participate!

The Books Of Old Reading Challenge:

Post One: Introduction & Rules

Post Two: Sign the Linky

Post Three: Grab a Blog Button

Favorite Finds #17

2011-01-07T11:01:00.001-06:00

Hi Readers,
It has been a couple weeks since I last did a Favorite Finds post. Because of that, I have a bigger collection of links to share with you all today! Hope you will find something interesting below...

For my first link, I must share that Hannah Grace has recently posted some Favorite Finds on her own blog. I was thrilled! Take a look here:
Favourite Finds Friday, #1... {Walking in Thy Truth}

I'd also like to mention that if anyone else would like to post your own Favorite Finds, I'd be happy to link to your blog for that.

A list of more blog posts that I enjoyed reading lately....

Favorites of 2010 - Books {Before My Penn has Gleaned}

50 Books Reading Challenge (2010 list) {Blogging Beth}

days like pearls slipping off a string {Shirley Goodness & Mayhem}

www.d-e-f-i-n-i-t-e-l-y.com - Nifty webpage for the spelling of 'definitely'.

extra day {Ali's World Adventures}

How we are known {Resolved to Be}

Reflect. Rejoice. Resolve. {Simply Vingtagegirl}

Writer's Resources {Before My Penn has Gleaned}

Here's a section of links just for giveaways you could enter. Some are from my own friends, or from others that looked interesting.

Maria's Handmade Scarflette (Castle on a Cloud)

Health For Godly Generations by Renee DeGroot (ends January 8)

Authentic Beauty by Leslie Ludy (ends January 9)

Samantha: An American Girl DVD (ends January 10)

"Pink Paris" Wooden Wall Hanger (ends January 11)

Rosetta Stone Giveaway (ends January 11)

Andi's Pony Trouble by Susan K. Marlow - (ends January 20)

Bookish Look at 2010

2011-01-03T05:11:00.009-06:00

How did you fare with your reading in 2010?

How many books did you accomplish?

My total came to 53, which is about as good as it gets. I love keeping track of the books I read in a notebook. It may be a small notebook, but as the years go by, it literally contains volumes.

With 2010 gone, I wanted to share my Top 10 Favorite Books that I read this past year. I'd also like to invite anyone else to do the same... because I'd love to see what your favorites were!

Here's my list (in randomized order)...

1. Greyfriars Bobby (Eleanor Atkinson)

2. Eight Cousins (Louisa May Alcott)

3. Kidnapped (Robert Louis Stevenson)

4. The Pursuit of Holiness (Jerry Bridges)

5. Far North (Will Hobbs)

6. Sarah Bishop (Scott O'Dell)

7. Power of Kindness for Teens (Guideposts)

8. Heart of Fire (Victoria Holmes)

9. Sherlock Holmes stories (Sir Arthur Conan Doyle)

10. A Dog Named Christmas (Greg Kincaid)

What were your favorite reads in 2010?

For the new year...

2010-12-31T05:54:00.005-06:00

Merry Christmas

2010-12-24T11:29:00.001-06:00

Merry Christmas!!

Favorite Finds #16

2010-12-17T05:12:00.006-06:00

In the midst of December, it has hit Friday again. Time for a new edition of Favorite Finds! Hope you enjoy these posts I've found in the last few days...

Announcing..."Bible Blast" 90 Day Challenge! - Are you interested in reading the entire Bible from January to March?

Snowfall - A delightfully descriptive post about snow!

Descriptions - Excellent article about writers being descriptive with their words.

Benjamin Franklin Quote - from the blog "What They Said"

Also, Rachel has been posting an excellent 3-part series of tutorials about...
The Art of Cookie Decorating:

First Steps

The Decorating

Shipping/Packaging

If you're interested... stop by The Ladies Library group blog, to see the new Christmas review I posted earlier this week! Book Review of The Unfinished Gift by Dan Walsh

Book Review: A Dog Named Christmas

2010-12-14T10:42:00.000-06:00

A Dog Named Christmas

written by Greg Kincaid

160 pages

This year, one of the Christmas books I've been reading is called "A Dog Named Christmas". It was a very good book, and I'd like to share a bit about the storyline with you.

The book shows you this story from the eyes of the war veteran father, George. He and his wife have 5 children, with only 1 child still "left in the nest"--and that would be Todd, their 20-year-old son, who has a mental disability. Todd always had his own unique way of doing things, and as his father, George, puts it, "For every deficit one might see in Todd, there is an ability you don't see."

Within the first chapter, I was quite interested. The story takes shape as Todd finds out about the local animal shelter's Adopt-a-Dog-for-Christmas program. Todd is quite excited about having a dog on the farm for the holiday, even if the dog must go back after Christmas. However, the father firmly says no--they can't take in a dog. He has his own reasons and memories for giving this answer. George is not sure if he would be ready for something like this, even if it would be a good experience for Todd.

As the chapters fly by, Todd, with his special personality, takes on a huge project and pretty soon the whole town of Crossing Trails begins to notice. What will happen this Christmas season that brings out the best in everyone?

My personal opinion: "A Dog Named Christmas" is the perfect December read, especially for dog lovers. It is a heartwarming tale, with several happy wagging tails filling up its pages. Recommended for adults, but teenagers/youth would certainly enjoy it as well.

What have you been reading this December?

Favorite Finds #15

2010-12-10T05:58:00.001-06:00

Time to share a few of the things I've enjoyed reading in the blog-world, from this past week. Hope you will like taking a look at some of these sites!

Hippo To The Rescue - Rachel @ "Under African Skies"

9 Noel and Joy Projects @ "CraftGossip"

Almond Quick Bread (Gluten-Free) - Emily Rose @ "Simply Vintage Girl"

A Chest of Hopes: Beautifying the Notebook - Jessica @ "Feelin' Femenine"

Gooey Bars (Recipe) - Emily @ "Old Country Cottage"

The Day of Small Things - Jessica @ "Under African Skies"

Benjamin Franklin on Spending Time Wisely @ "What They Said"

Book Review: Kate's Choice

2010-12-09T12:54:00.000-06:00

The Ladies Library is hosting a Christmas Celebration, where participants are welcome to share book or movie reviews about Christmas. Entries are open until right up to Christmas Day. Please stop by The Ladies Library to learn more, to read what others have posted, and to post your own review for the event.

Here is my review for the Christmas Celebration....

Kate's Choice

written by Louisa May Alcott

125 pages

If you're looking for a delightful and quick Christmas read, this book would be perfect. It is actually a compilation of 3 short stories by Louisa May Alcott. The first story of the book is called Kate's Choice, and it was my favorite story of the book. It is about a young girl from England who has come to stay with relatives in America. She has all her aunts & uncles on their toes as they wait to hear about a certain life-changing decision that she must make. Not only does she make a surprising choice, but she also plans a very merry Christmas secret.

What Love Can Do is the second short story in the book. It features 2 sisters who share their quaint Christmas wishes with each other. Each of them wish they had a bit more money to spend on gifts for their family.
What awaits them on their doorstep on Christmas morning?

The last story is entitled Gwen's Adventure in the Snow. It shows the great courage of little boys & girls who get caught in a snowstorm during a fun sleigh ride. They cannot return home. How will they survive the frigid night?

Each of these stories have their own unique personality. The characters within the pages of this book show excellent qualities and virtues, just like all of Louisa May Alcott's writings. I have a very high recommendation for this book, and hope you'll enjoy reading it this Christmas season.

Remember to take a look at the The Ladies Library Christmas Celebration page for more details!!

Favorite Finds #14

2010-12-03T10:47:00.000-06:00

The Favorite Finds post this week is going to be a little different...
I have many blogging friends who were doing bunches of writing in November. Below I have linked to their final posts about the success of the month.

MyWriMo Participants...

Jessica

Katie

Jennifer

NaNoWriMo-ing Friends...

Alyssa

Eyebright

Georgie Penn

Anna

Beth

Now for a couple links to some lovely giveaways you should check out...

Anna's giveaway - for a handmade darling tote bag!

Emily's giveaway - for a Christmas red scarf!

MyWriMo .:. THE END

2010-12-01T08:37:00.000-06:00

Hello to December.
The month of November is now behind us. Everyone's thoughts about this? What did you accomplish?

I had my own goals for "MyWriMo"... Some of you have already heard this... but all I wanted to do during those special 30 days was to finish up some stories that I've begun over the past few months and come out of November with some finished projects. It happened! That was the most writing I've done in a long time, and I'm very proud of my progress. This included 3 different short stories for me, that I was able to finish.

Below are the titles of my stories, along with their final word count.

The Pharridge Gnomes: 3,400 words
The Check: 848 words
The Easter Secret: 17,180 words

As you can see, the first 2 stories were pretty short, and I've already been able to read over these and pretty much edit them. "The Easter Secret" has several pages in it, and that is going to take me a while read, edit, re-do certain parts of the storyline that need fixing, edit some more before it is finished.

So, I'm very curious to hear about everyone else's progress! I hope that all of you who were writing in November got a lot of writing done too.
Oh, and... who already has plans for November 2011??

All the words I use in my stories
can be found in the dictionary -
it's just a matter of arranging them
into the right sentences.
-Somerset Maugham

Book Review: The Westing Game

2010-11-30T14:41:00.001-06:00

The Westing Game

originally written in 1978
by Ellen Raskin

216 pages

First off: The book is superb!

Secondly: The author [Ellen Raskin] is an excellent writer!

Thirdly: Nobody would have seen the ending coming, if it slapped you in the face!

Let me tell you a bit about the storyline:Samuel Westing (AKA "Uncle Sam"--because he was a very patriotic man) has been located in his mansion.... DEAD. Everyone who was in his will were all (coincidentally, of course) invited to check out the apartments in Sunset Towers. Also, (again coincidentally) all members-of-the-will accepted the apartments. Of course the surprise of finding out that they are in this man's will, would come after they move in.

Anyways, when they finally come together to read Samuel Westing's will... all 16 heirs are in for a real shocker! The will turns out to be this clever puzzle they have to solve. There's 8 teams and each team only gets 2 clues, so they'll do anything to peek over someone's shoulder to find new clues staring them in the face.

Oh! And did I mention that whoever figures out the answer to the puzzle first, will win $200 million?

The author is just amazing in how she organized the book and made all the characters so different from each other, yet they all can be classified as "normal enough" (for the most part anyways). Yet in their own way, all the people were a bit puzzling. Ellen definitely has her own unique writing style and it is clear to see that she took her time to ponder on this storyline (and it's for the better that she did).

For me, "The Westing Game" was one of those stories that once you start it, there's no way you can think of anything else, until you finish the book (and yes, I'm talking about the VERY last page!) Recommended reading level is for ages 10-14.....but anyone older who loves a good mystery would enjoy it too.

I'm participating in the Monthly Book Reviews Challenge. Please stop by Hannah's Hangout for more info, and to see all the other great book reviews for this month!

Favorite Finds #13

2010-11-26T05:21:00.007-06:00

Some new "Favorite Finds" for this week. I hope maybe you'll find something that interests you in one of these blogs.

enter the world of. . . {a peek at our NaNo novel} - by Anna
She and her sister, Michaela, have been writing their NaNoWriMo novel together. Anna wrote this description of their story... sounds fantastic!

Ode to the prolog of the Un-Named book...NaNoWriMo '10 - by Michaela
Here is a little glimpse of what Michaela & Anna have been writing. Can't wait until I can read more!

R. M. Ballantyne Book Giveaway - Now to December 27th, each week another Ballantyne book will be given away!

White Blossoms: The Promise - by Katie
Writer's inspiration after midnight... filled with lovely, poetic descriptions.

Grace for the here and now - Just a thoughtful quote I liked.

How to Manage A Business, School, and Family - by Hannah
Sounds a little bit like my own life!

Something brand new - More inspirational words to think about.

Called by Name Photography - A new blog I found. Lovely photos. Check out this one entitled "Classics".

MyWriMo .:. Day 24

2010-11-24T15:32:00.001-06:00

Another post about writing! Surprise?

I'm quite pleased with all the writing I've been able to do in November so far. It is so exciting to see each story finished, and then start on the next one. As you already know (if you've been reading along) I've been able to take 2 of my old stories (that had been started months ago) and I finished writing them finally. They were just a couple of short ones. Now I'm trying to accomplish my 3rd story. I think I started it a little over a year ago... at that time, I worked on it enough to write about 8,000 words, but then I left off with the story. It's been sitting in my computer all this time, waiting to be typed on some more. It's actually an Easter story, so it may seem like a weird time of the year to be working on it now... but...I'm really in the writing mood for it. There's still quite a bit more work to do with the story, but I'm hoping I'll be able to squeeze it all in before November ends!

So, my question for you today is... anyone who is writing this month, with the last week upon us, Do you think you're going to reach your goal by November 30th?I'd love to hear what you have to say!

Now for some very true words...

“The difficulty of literature is not to write,
but to write what you mean.”
~ Robert Louis Stevenson

Something thoughtful for the week

2010-11-22T11:04:00.000-06:00

"Faith means believing in advance
what will only make sense in reverse."

{Phillip Yancey}

Introducing {Weekend Shop Hop}

2010-11-19T08:51:00.001-06:00

This post is especially for either one of the following.

(a) Shop owners, wanting to spotlight their products

(b) Online shoppers, looking for anything to catch their eye

If you're one of the above (or if you're BOTH of the above!) then you should jump over to my other blog, Pixel Berry Pie Designs. Usually, over there, I post about the newest items in my Etsy shop, or when I have special sales going on... and I post about other things too.

For example, today is the beginning of the Weekend Shop Hop, where store owners can link up their products to be featured. To visit this week's post and to find out more, go here ~ Weekend Shop Hop .:. Friday 19th - Thursday 25

ENJOY!

MyWriMo .:. Day 17

2010-11-17T05:14:00.008-06:00

We're now into the 3rd week of November. How is that even possible that the time has flown by so quickly? But it's true... 2 weeks have already vanished. About 2 more weeks left.

How is everyone doing with your writing goals, whether it be a novel or other writings... Do you consider yourself to be at the half-way point? Seeing as we are at the half-way point of the month.

To give my own quick update, I've now completed short story #2. It really didn't even take much to finish up. It didn't even need a thousand words added on... the point where I had left off months ago was so close to the end.

So, there's my 2nd completed writing project for November. Now it's time to tackle story #3... I think it's going to take awhile!

“Be yourself.
Above all, let who you are,
what you are,
what you believe,
shine through every sentence you write,
every piece you finish.”
-by John Jakes

Book Review: The Mayflower Secret

2010-11-15T05:52:00.003-06:00

The Mayflower Secret

written by Dave & Neta Jackson

157 pages

An interesting thing to read about this time of the year, is books about the Pilgrims... with Thanksgiving coming, it's nice to re-read about the Pilgrims journey. Here's a book I've enjoyed reading recently...

Elizabeth Tilley was a Pilgrim who crossed the ocean, from England to America in 1620. She was a real person, but this book is a fictional account of her life, written by Dave & Neta Jackson in their "Trailblazer" series. Elizabeth was 13 when the voyage began with her parents. Her family was not of the group of Puritans who were fleeing from England though. So the experience of living in close quarters on the same ship with these godly people adds a new perspective to Elizabet's outlook on life.

Amid all the regular chaos aboard the ship, something horrible goes awry. It's Elizabeth's secret that she won't tell anyone. She's afraid that she'll get into a bigger mess of trouble than she'll be able to get out of. Everyone questions what had happened on that certain tragic night, but Elizabeth can't make herself tell.

The weary voyagers explore the new land of America and the Puritan leaders, including William Bradford, begin building their initial encampment. Through all this, Elizabeth must endure even greater pains and hardships, in addition to still keeping the burden of a secret. She now has a completely different life than she did before. And after all... living with Indians is not at all something that anyone would do back in England!

"Juvenile Fiction" - recommended for ages 9-12. Very nicely written book. I always enjoy the Trailblazer books. This is probably by second time (at least) to read "The Mayflower Secret"--still keeps me interested!

If you're interested in a couple other Pilgrim books I recommend, please visit my post on Walking in Thy Truth.

Favorite Finds #12

2010-11-12T10:58:00.000-06:00

'Tis Friday again, and time to share some of my favorite articles I've found on blogs this past week.
Hope you'll like them too!

Inspiration Station (Before My Penn has Gleaned)

Doubts About Daring (Rose's Daring Adventure)

Supreme Awesomeness... (Whisperings of the Pen)

God’s grace prevails (Of First Importance)

Inspiration (Christ is Write)

Lord, Change My Story, However You Will (Dan's Books)

The Trees Are Raining! (Under African Skies)

Thomas A' Kempis on Wisdom (What They Said)

MyWriMo .:. Day 8

2010-11-08T05:57:00.003-06:00

Days 1 through 7 of November have come and gone. Week #1 of writing has already disappeared.

If you remember from my original post about MyWriMo, I have a few stories I've begun writing over the past year, but haven't finished them. November seemed to be the perfect month to try and accomplish some writing, as a lot of blog friends are doing NaNoWriMo. Reading their blog posts about what they're writing this month is very inspirational and makes me feel motivated to finish my own projects.

So, what have I done so far in this first week? I have finished Story #1. It's fully written, and it is practically edited. The word count for this short story is 3,340 words. Not much in comparison to what some people are striving to write this month, but... it's totally worth it for me to have finished a story.

As week #2 begins, I'm looking forward to digging in to my next story that needs finishing!

What has everyone else accomplished so far? I'd love to hear an update from you!

If anyone else is interested in joining in this writing fun, just drop me a note! Grab a button here. It's not to late to figure out your goals and start writing.

For me,
writing is exploration;
and most of the time,
I'm surprised
where the journey takes me.
-by Jack Dann

Favorite Finds #11

2010-11-05T08:58:00.001-05:00

It's the end of the week, and that means it's time to round up my Favorite Finds that I've found online this past week. I have quite a few links to share today!

Pictorial Representation Paraphernalia - Check out Amy's list about all things photography.

Focus - Lovely, inspiring words from Emily Rose.

Halo Around The Sun - "A rare sight in the sky" from South Africa a couple days ago.

Bible Cover Tutorial - Looks like a great idea from the Seven Sisters!

Announcing: The Launch of Childlike Faith Publishing - Alyssa has started making ebooks out of her own writings..."Thanksgiving Stories For Children" sounds especially interesting!

Red-Eyed Tree Frog - A glimpse of a lovely creature in Costa Rica.

And also....
Just thought I'd mention that I posted on a couple other blogs this past week!

"The Landing of the Pilgrims" & "A Journey to the New World" - posted on Walking in Thy Truth
{2 book reviews, perfect for reading during the Thanksgiving season!}

Book Review of "Before Green Gables" - posted on The Ladies Library
{If you've read the "Anne of Green Gables" series, you'd probably be interested in reading this modern-written prequel to the Anne books!}

MyWriMo .:. Day 3

2010-11-03T05:44:00.019-05:00

November is here. I'm so excited to now be into the 3rd official day of writing.

In just the first couple days of writing, I've added 1,100+ words on my first short story I'm trying to finish. Already, I can feel myself edging closer to the storyline's conclusion. By the weekend, I'm sure the story will be complete. Then it will be time to pull out the next story I want to finish.

What are you writing in November? Finising some projects, like me? Starting something new? What kind of word count are you striving for?If anyone would like to share about your writing progress so far, I'd like to hear from you! Drop me a comment, or post on your blog about it. If you're interested in participating in MyWriMo, just let me know and I'll add you to my list below.

Other MyWriMo Friends:

Katie - Whisperings of the Pen

Jessica - Literary Pursuits

Jennifer - Blogful of Books

Jessie - Number the Stars

Now I will leave you with a couple pieces of writing inspiration.

If you want links to some awesome websites to help you in your writing, take a peek at what Hannah Grace posted earlier this week. In her big list, you're sure to find something that sparks an interest with you... tips, prompts, and other writing tools.

One more thing....

If there's a book
you really want to read,
but it hasn't been written yet,
then you must write it.
{Toni Morrison}

Book Review: Shades of Gray

2010-11-01T06:00:00.005-05:00

Shades of Gray

written by Carolyn Reeder

165 pages

This is one of my favorite books concerning America's Civil War!Actually, it's the fictional story of Will Page after the war ended. He is only 12 years old and has already lost his parents & siblings during the war.

Will has nowhere to go, except to live with his closest relatives in Piedmont, Virginia--an aunt, uncle & cousin, that he doesn't know. Because Will is so upset about the war taking his family, he can't stand the fact that this new family of his didn't even fight to protect the Confederates. They tried to remain neutral, to prevent harm coming to their own family. Will's heart is full of hard feelings towards his uncle especially, who could have fought in the war. I think it's a great book, because it shows insight of how feelings and emotions were still raging after the Civil War was over... even between family.

When this boy goes to live with his relatives, he also experiences a new life he never had before while living in the city, where he had slaves to do his work. Now he's learning how to work hard in the country, which completely changes his life around. He's never trapped rabbits, built a fence, or grown crops before. He also learns several life lessons... including courage, pride, and respect.

Check out this book. It is really worth the read! Recommended reading level is for ages 9-12--but I really enjoyed it myself, as did both my mother and my 15yo brother. It is also recommended in the Sonlight homeschool reading curriculum.

I'm participating in the Monthly Book Reviews Challenge. Please stop by Hannah's Hangout for more info, and to see all the other great book reviews for this month!

Favorite Finds #10

2010-10-29T09:28:00.000-05:00

Here's a few blog posts that I read during this past week. I saved them so I could share them with you.
Please do enjoy reading these young ladies' blogs!

Oh NaNoWriMo, When Shall Ye Arrive? - Georgie @ Before My Penn Has Gleaned

Too hard? - Jane @ Novel Pretender

On the fickleness of words - Margaret @ Painter of Words

Dear Homework - Rose's Daring Adventure

One of my favorite places on earth - Michaela @ The Last Rose of Summer

A couple special things to mention

2010-10-27T12:44:00.002-05:00

Hi Readers,I have a couple of lovely things to tell you about today!

The first thing to tell you about is the Fall Festival that Hannah Grace is hosting! She's posting special {exciting} things from October 27th to November 6th. Today was the first day, and she started it out with a book giveaway {Jane Austen fans especially will be interested}. I do encourange to click over to her blog during the next few days to see what she'll be posting!

Next on my list to tell my readers about... there's a new blog called "The Ladies Library". (Isn't that just a delightful name?) It's a blog composed soley of reviews about books! It is run by Grace. She and a few other girls are posting reviews together on this blog... I'm happy to say that I'll be posting occasionally on The Ladies Library too! In fact, I already did my first review on there, and if you want to check mine out, click here. There are already several posts to look at, and I've been enjoying reading the other girls' reviews myself. It's always great to find out about new books! Also, if anyone is interested in participating in writing reviews for this blog, you can contact Grace for more details.

1 week = MyWriMo

2010-10-25T05:38:00.006-05:00

I can't believe there's only one more week of waiting left until November begins. For me, this means MyWriMo! {click here for details} For many others of you, this means NaNoWriMo.

For "My Writing Month" {MyWriMo} I'm not going to attempt to fulfill 50,000 words to make a novel in one month. Instead, I'm looking forward to simply working on some writing projects that I've already started in the last few months (hopefully finishing up some things!)... I think there's a total of 5 different short stories that I would like to work on in November. Can't wait to get started!

How are you preparing for your November writing plans?

I have buttons for MyWriMo. If anyone wants to put one of these on your blog, then you are more than welcome to!

Autumn Recipe: Pumpkin Crunch

2010-10-20T06:52:00.003-05:00

I've been wanting to share this recipe on my blog for a while now. It's one that my family especially enjoys during Autumn time. If you like pumpkin pie, then you're sure to like this recipe too!

- Pumpkin Crunch -

ingredients:
1 can (16oz) solid pack pumpkin
1 can (12oz) evaporated milk
3 eggs
1 ½ cups sugar
4 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
½ tsp. cinnamon
½ tsp. salt
1 package yellow cake mix
1 cup chopped pecans
1 cup butter or margarine, melted
whipped toppping

directions:
Preheat oven to 350°. Grease bottom of 13”x9” pan.

Combine pumpkin, milk, eggs, sugar, pie spices, cinnamon & salt in large bowl. Pour into greased pan.

Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over pumpkin mixture. Top with pecans. Drizzle the melted butter on top.

Bake at 350° for 50-55 minutes, or until golden brown. Cool completely. Serve with whipped topping. Refrigerate leftovers.

Note: I'm linking this post to Emily's Fall Recipes linky list.
If you'd like to join, please click here.

From Victor Hugo

2010-10-18T06:28:00.009-05:00

Favorite Finds #9

2010-10-15T08:12:00.000-05:00

Here's my Favorite Finds for this week....
just a few things I've found in the blog-world that I enjoyed reading....

OhSewStylish Handbag Giveaway - @ Hannah's Hangout
(Giveaway ends Oct. 25)

Imagine this... - Jane @ Novel Pretender
(NaNoWriMo storyline....which includes Sherlock Holmes, Professor Moriarty, & maybe some other characters)

Go somewhere. - Anna @ Send Me a Song
(A wishful post about those delightful European countries)

It 'Tis Fall - Esther @ Barefoot Days
(Interesting, Fall-ish pics)

My dog, Terra

2010-10-13T05:09:00.005-05:00

Maggie {from Bliss} is hosting another Photo Challenge...the theme this time is...PETS!

So, I thought I would share a picture of my dog... (some of you may have seen her before).
She is a Westie, and her name is Terra.

{click on picture to enlarge}

> > read more about the contest by clicking here
(it ends on Friday, so get your pictures posted soon, if you'd like to enter!)

BIG changes + "MyWriMo"

2010-10-11T08:31:00.002-05:00

Hi everyone,
If you are here today on my blog, you might be noticing some big changes about now. (HINT~if you're viewing this post from a reader, you might want to click over to my blog)

A note about what's new: Take a look around and let me know what you think. Aside from the new design, I also created some new pages on my blog that you might like to investigate. (They're located near the top of my sidebar) You'll find a page full of some of my favorite quotes (you can even submit your own quotes on the page), and there's my Etsy shop, my blogroll, and much more.

There's even more news too. If you caught the word "MyWriMo" in the title of this post, you might be wondering what that is all about. Well, we all know what takes place in November...it's NaNoWriMo (Nation Novel Writing Month). As much as I would love to participate in it, I don't think that this is the right year for me. I just wasn't so sure about the "50,000 words in 30 days" part of it. Instead, I have a different idea... what I like to call... "MyWriMo" (My Writing Month). Anyone is welcome to join me in this venture, if you're interested. What I'm thinking about is still having November to be a month full of writing... it just may not contain a novel at the end of the month.

For a long time, I've wanted to finish several stories that I have started, and none of them have endings. Well, in fact some of them don't even have a middle section either... just a short beginning! So I would like to round up all my stories and finish them in November. Along the way, if I think up any new storylines, I might even write something new too... but I don't think it's going to be 50,000 words long.

I was wondering if anyone else would like to do this with me. The more, the merrier! We could each have our own "MyWriMo". We'll all have different goals. Mine is to finish some stories, so that I'll have some completed projects from this year.
{If you have some ideas for stories (or something bigger like a novel)--maybe you already have something in the works that you'd like to finish up, this could be your motivation. You don't have to commit yourself to the entire month of November either--just take whatever time you'd like in November to do anything you need with your writing.} I'd love to hear from anyone who is interested in this!

I know I'm excited about November coming and getting some writing done. You'll probably be hearing more about this from me, as the time gets closer!

Favorite Finds #8

2010-10-09T11:48:00.000-05:00

Hello readers,
I wanted to go ahead and share some links with you today, even though it's not my regular day to post my Favorite Finds entry for the week. I do hope you'll enjoy perusing through these blogs, because I certainly loved reading through these links myself!

"Pumpkin Spice Bread- Recipe" - Emily @ Practically Pink
(Check out this scrumptious looking recipe AND then if you would like to share your own Autumn recipes, feel free to link up to her linky at the bottom of her post!)

"Describing a place you love to be." - Hannah Grace @ Walking in Thy Truth
(A very intriguing account of the night on which NaNoWriMo begins.)

"Autumn splendor" - Michaela @ The Last Rose of Summer

"Crafty Collection ~ Episode 1" - Miss Eyebright @ Defective Compositions
(Links that lead to such lovely tutorials & crafts!)

"Maud Hart Lovelace Reading Challenge" - A Library is the Hospital for the Mind
(Anyone want to read Betsy & Tacy books this month?)

"List Of Some Publishers Of Books I Like" - Grace @ Genuine Glee

"Faces in everyday places."

2010-10-04T06:47:00.011-05:00

There's a neat photo contest running on the blog Bliss {written by Maggie}.

The theme for the photos is - "Faces in everyday places."
> > click here to read more about the contest

Here's my entry...

Feel free to join up in the contest yourself! -and- Go see what kinds of pictures that the other participants are coming with.

Book Review: Lassie Come-Home

2010-09-27T14:27:00.001-05:00

Lassie Come-Home

written by Eric Knight

256 pages

This is a delightful and heartwarming story that takes place right after World War I, in England and Scotland. The storyline centers on Lassie, the Carraclough's pet Collie. The family loves their dog very much... but when hard times hit, the family is forced into making a life-changing and heart-wrenching decision. The town of Greenall Bridge could always depend on seeing Lassie trotting down the streets with her owner, young Joe Carraclough, but even the town is devasted when Lassie isn't there anymore.

Through the experiences of Lassie, you will meet many of the villagers, some with thoughtful regards, and some characters with bad intentions. No matter what kind of situation, someone is always there to guide Lassie on her way. As the story unfolds, you will discover how determined and loyal that a dog can really be.

This book was originally published by Eric Knight in 1940. Only 3 years later, the author died. However, the classic story of Lassie has been told again & again since then, in other revised & adapted books, and also in movies.
I think almost anyone would enjoy this story. The dedication and perseverance of the dog, to the quaint villages of England and Scotland, and all the characters within, along with their lovely British accents... I savored every word! It's definitely one of my VERY favorite books.

{Recommeded for 12yrs to Adult}

I'm participating in the Monthly Book Reviews Challenge. Please stop by Hannah's Hangout for more info, and to see all the other great book reviews for this month!

Favorite Finds #7

2010-09-24T06:21:00.002-05:00

I have a few links for you this week for my "Favorite Finds" post...
I hope you'll take a look at some of these great blogs!

Start of a New Season by Tessa (Lovely, thoughtful post about Autumn.)

Happy Autumn! by Allison (I've never read this poem from Robert Frost before, and right now is the perfect time to read it.)

Christopher Robin is saying his prayers by Tulip (Another poem... this one from A.A. Milne. So cute!)

A Title Is Too Small To Try To Say In 4 Words That I Heart Fall And Sukkot. by Alyssa

Biltmore House by Grace (I would love to visit that library!)

42 Gluten-free Recipes (Some of these recipes look good. It might take a little extra time for this page to load--it's a PDF.)

Just a couple things...

2010-09-23T08:11:00.000-05:00

Thank you to everyone who has been answering my last riddle. I thought I might be able to stump you all with that tricky question, but lo and behold, a lot of you figured it out! To anyone who's still in the dark about the answer, here it is for you...

What English word has 3 consecutive double letters? -- BOOKKEEPER

I also wanted to post today and give you a reminder about Anna's Les Miserables Week that has been going on. If you're interested at all, I encourage you to run over and see what she (and other bloggers) have been posting about Les Miz this week. If you have anything in mind, you can post something about Les Miserables on your own blog and sign up on Anna's linky list. Have fun!

A New Twist

2010-09-22T06:28:00.001-05:00

I see that my readers are having a bit of trouble figuring out this last riddle I posted. {No, the answer is not "Mississippi" or "committee".}
So I thought that I'll add something extra into the mix this time... I'll let you guess the letters in the word, and eventually you'll put the word together... It's pretty similar to a "hangman" type of game.

Just leave a comment with an alphabet letter you want to guess. I'll update the game again with everyone's letters, and then you'll start to see a word forming. (hopefully!)

What English word has 3 consecutive double letters?

the word: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

an answer & a new riddle

2010-09-17T08:06:00.000-05:00

Thank you everyone for guessing on my riddle post the last few days. It's about time that I revealed the correct answer! For a quick update, this was the riddle:

"I know a word of letters three. Add two and fewer there will be."

...and the answer to this excellent riddle is.... the word: Few :~D

I feel like I'm on a roll here, and I don't want to mess up the momentum of throwing these riddles at you. So, I have a new one!!
Here it is:

What English word has 3 consecutive double letters?

{This is a pretty tough one... So think hard about all the words you know. And I don't mind if you use some "help".}

Book Review: Gentle Ben

2010-09-15T05:50:00.002-05:00

Gentle Ben

written by Walt Morey

192 pages

"Gentle Ben" is a story about a boy and his longing to tame a wild bear that he can’t have.

Mark is a young boy who lives in Alaskan Territory (before it became a state). The thing that he desires most is to be friends with Ben, an Alaskan brown bear, who has been chained up in Fog Benson’s shed for 5 dreadful years. Mark’s parents do not approve of befriending this wild, giant mammal, for fear of their son’s safety. They've already lost a child before, and don't want it to happen again.

When the whole town turns angrily upon Mark & Ben, what is to be done then? The town can’t just kill an innocent bear!

There’s a lot more going on in the storyline too, like the Alaskan Salmon Run, and riding fishing boats down the river, and exploring the fine northern scenery...and so much more.

Easy reading, but an intense plot created by the author's terrific writing style. I’d recommend it for anyone, ages 10 & up. (and yes, that even includes adults!)

Favorite Finds #6

2010-09-10T06:22:00.005-05:00

Please enjoy these "favorite finds" of mine that I have discovered while reading blogs this past week. Each one of these are all on completely different subject matters...quite funny how dissimilar they are.
Thanks for reading!

Circle Collage and Scrabble Tiles (from Amy's Artsy Articulations)

It’s Graduation Day! (from Susannah @ Seven Sisters)

In the Valley (from Melinda @ Abounding in Hope)

What my family would look like in the 1900's (from Allison @ Girl of the Prairie)

.:. More About Riddles .:.

2010-09-07T06:54:00.009-05:00

Hi everyone,
If you saw my "What am I?" post last week, you might have guessed the answer... or you might not have. If not, I'm here to reveal the answer now. For a quick update, this was the riddle:

I have keys,that open no locks.I have space,but there is no room.I have a home,but there is no house.You can enter,but you can't go in.What am I?

Thank you for all your guesses! The final answer is... a Computer Keyboard.

So, I thought since a lot of you guessed that one, I'd give you another riddle to play around with.
Ready? And yes... it's a tricky one!

"I know a word of letters three.
Add two and fewer there will be."

~Can you figure it out?~

Favorite Finds #5

2010-09-03T06:21:00.007-05:00

Hi everyone!
Here's a few links to some neat things I've found this week in the blog-world. Hope you enjoy reading these as much as I did!

B.O.O.K. (from Jane @ Novel Pretender)
This funny little article made me laugh. It's a quite new perspective of what a book is!

Type + Photography = Typography. (from Alyssa @ Pixel8Design)
One way of looking at the alphabet through the camera lens!

New School Supplies (from Hannah @ Clicked and Captured)
Pictures of things I love the most!

....and lastly... you should check out what Anna has going on her blog....Les Miserables Week! (it starts September 19)

I read the book "Les Miserables" a year ago and loved it. It's one of my favorites. I'm excited to see everything that Anna is going to post about... click on her button below to see what she's posted so far.

A simple riddle to solve.

2010-09-01T05:57:00.000-05:00

I have keys,
that open no locks.

I have space,
but there is no room.

I have a home,
but there is no house.

You can enter,
but you can't go in.

What am I?

Book Review: Candy Bombers

2010-08-30T06:40:00.006-05:00

Candy Bombers

written by Robert Elmer

160 pages

Erich and his family live in Berlin, Germany. The Cold War is raging on, in addition to the many problems left over from World War II. It is not a happy time.

As a teenager, Erich is in the midst of this horrible confusion with his mother, grandmother, aunt, & his cousin, Katarina. He takes it upon himself to find food for his starving family, which drives him into the undertaking of getting back at Germany's enemies--the Soviet soldiers. Erich blames the Russians for everything, including taking his father's life. Erich has a mission, but it lands both himself & Katarina, in an unpleasant situation dealing with the Americans. They don't know what will happen to them now, or if they'll make it back home safely.

With talk of war, spies, bombs, and no food in Berlin... What can a boy do to make a better difference in his life, and the lives around him?

* (This is actually book #1 in a series called "The Wall")
This book is probably best recommended for the ages of 10-14.

I'm participating in the Monthly Book Reviews Challenge. Please stop by Hannah's Hangout for more info, and to see all the other great book reviews for this month!