Time for Tag!

The little tag games that go around the blogosphere from time-to-time are fun, I think. This time around I was tagged by Natasha @ Day by Day who was tagged by Emily the Industrious. I think maybe Emily started it. In any case, here are my answers:

Question
When you're scared of something that is not truly frightening, what's the very first thing you do?
Answer
Gasp and flap my hands in the air, then try to act like I didn't really react. My husband and kids laugh at me for doing this all the time.

Question
When you feel like you've lost control of your emotions, what do you do?
Answer
Take a deep breath. And pray.

Question
When was the last time you cried?
Answer
I don't remember.

Question
Why did you cry?
Answer
Because I needed to, I guess.

Question
Who is your closest confidant?
Answer
Lyle (next to God, that is)

Question
For what would you go to college for if you were going?
Answer
Library Science

Question
Who is your most annoying pet?
Answer
Tabitha the cat, I guess, though I have definitely been around more annoying cats. Still, it couldn't be Cookie who is the ultimate sweetheart. And the fish are just fishy. That's all the pets we have. One dog. One cat. And 3 fish.

Question
Why don't you like tags?
Answer
Who said I didn't?

Question
Which five people do you tag?
Answer
Let's see. Who would want to do this? I tell you what... if you like tags and feel like doing this one, just consider yourself tagged!

A Sweet Reminder

Last fall I bought a couple of pretty mum plants and transplanted them into my front flower bed. I hoped they would come back this year, and much to my delight, they did! I've been watching them grow all summer, carefully pinching them back so they wouldn't get too "leggy." I was excited to see the first little nubby buds show up a few weeks ago... and finally... they have begun to bloom, right on schedule!

But what have we here?

In the same flower bed, I have a treasured little azalea bush that my dear friend, Kay, bought for me as a housewarming gift when we moved into this house three-and-a-half years ago. It has faithfully bloomed each spring, and I've been so happy that it has seemed to thrive for me.

Did you notice I said it blooms in the spring? Imagine my surprise to notice this little guy... just one lonely little bud... blooming brightly last week! In September. Not May.

I have no idea why the funny little flower bloomed out-of-season. It seems like there might be some sort of spiritual lesson there if I could just put it into words.

It's been two years today since Kay went to Heaven. Spiritual lesson or not, I thought it was nice of God to let that one little flower bloom to remind me of my special friend.

Walk Strong, Look Up - review

I was inspired by Chantel Hobbs' previous book, Never Say Diet, so when I was offered the opportunity to review her latest book on walking, I was definitely interested. I've mentioned before that I am trying to get into the habit of walking regularly. I am not interested in running, but I love to go for hikes, and when I'm out in the woods I always wish I had more strength and stamina. So I know I need to walk more. In Walk Strong, Look Up Chantel challenges us to "walk with God" in a literal way. She outlines a 4-week plan including how long to walk, how often to walk, and what to think about on each walk for a month. She even includes practical tips like how to get the right shoes and warm-up stretches to do. I found it very helpful and encouraging.

Here's the publisher's synopsis:

When it comes to diet and exercise, many people are tired, frustrated, and ready to throw in the (literal and figurative) towel. Lack of motivation and results can leave you feeling drained, dumpy, and defeated.

In her new book, author Chantel Hobbs will change all that! Hobbs reveals how just one month can radically transform your outlook. Walk Strong, Look Up shares the story of how walking renewed her passion for life, and how others can benefit from what she has learned. Get tips on finding the right shoes, making lighter food choices without sacrificing flavor, and strengthening your muscles to increase your metabolism and energy level. Most importantly, learn about God’s unconditional acceptance and why He is the perfect walking partner.

Each week of this four week plan offers instructions, stories of encouragement, and questions for reflection, as well as a pre-walk challenge and post-walk chat. Walk Strong’s plan will help you gain confidence, relieve stress, improve your physique, and stay excited about being active.

Available September 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. Thank you to Revell for sending me a review copy.

Sonlight Blog

I'm blogging about hands-on ideas for homeschooling at the Sonlight Blog today. I would love for you to leave me a comment there!

Deeply Devoted - review

Deeply Devoted by Maggie Brendan is a sweet pioneer romance story. Catharine, the heroine, is a mail-order bride who travels from Holland to Wyoming to marry the man she has only met through correspondence. He is not expecting her to arrive with her two younger sisters, as well as other "baggage" that is not as apparent to him early on. Catharine's secret past made the story intriguing, and not just another romance novel. I also enjoyed the part Catharine's Blue Willow dishes played in the story (since I collect pretty vintage dishes.) I found this book be a fairly light read, but enjoyable.

If I understand correctly, this is the first book in a new series: The Blue Willow Brides. Maybe the next ones will be about Catharine's younger sisters? That would be fun!

Here's the publisher's synopsis:

Acclaimed romance writer Maggie Brendan’s latest offering from the “Blue Willow Bride” series, Deeply Devoted, introduces readers to Catharine Olsen, a mail-order bride arriving in America from Holland. She carries not only the anticipation of her marriage to Peter Andersen but also the residual pain of a tragic past, her mother’s Blue Willow china, and has her two younger sisters in tow. The fact is, in Wyoming, the single men outnumber the women five to one, so Catharine’s surpassing beauty and willing spirit are priceless gifts for Peter.

In spite of initial culture shock and necessary adjustments, Catharine finds a love with Peter that enraptures both her heart and mind. She is greatly troubled by Peter’s mother’s endeavors to sabotage their precious marriage. Catharine becomes terrified that her haunting past will be discovered, as the story unfolds with tremendous detail and extraordinary characterization.

Available September 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. Thank you to Revell for sending me a review copy.

Grandma's Attic - product review

The Grandma's Attic series of books by Arleta Richardson first came out in the 1970s. The title pretty much explains the premise... a little girl discovers interesting and unique things in her grandmother's attic and asks about them. Grandma always has a story to tell about the items she has carefully saved... and other little incidents remind her of stories as well. These sweet, old-fashioned books don't have much of a plot. Instead, they are just short anecdotes about a long-ago little girl with timeless lessons that are just as relevant today as ever.

There are 10 books in the series. I received books 3 and 4 for review: Still More Stories from Grandma's Attic and Treasures from Grandma's Attic. They have recently been re-released with new covers and illustrations, as well as easier-to-read page formatting. (More space between the lines which makes them more appealing to younger readers.) I love soft, whimsical style of the new illustrations.

Book 3, Still More Stories from Grandma's Attic, follows the format of the first two books in the series, with a "modern day" little girl asking her grandma for a story at the beginning of each chapter.  Book 4, Treasures from Grandma's Attic, is slightly different in that the stories are just directly narrated by the grandma who was once the little girl in the story. When I noticed that, I thought perhaps it would lend itself to an ongoing story line from one chapter to the next, but it turns out that it doesn't. Each chapter is still pretty much a stand-alone story.

On the Rock

Remember how I mentioned that I wanted to get in more walking and hiking this summer? Well, in spite of my good intentions, I haven't gotten out there as much as I thought I would. An overbooked schedule has a way of crowding out things like that. However, I will say, I have hiked more than usual this year-- so I guess that's better than just sitting, huh?

This past weekend we camped at Steamboat Rock State Park in central Washington. Number 1 on the itinerary was to "climb the rock." The men and kids had done it once before several years ago, but I just wasn't too sure I was up for the challenge. Casual walking and moderate hikes are not exactly hard-core training for rock climbing. Lyle was sure I could handle it, so I took a deep breath and set off with the group.

When we reached the face of the rock and saw that the trail looked like this ^ I balked. At least we weren't shinnying up the rock hanging onto ropes (that, I couldn't have done!), but slipping and sliding through the loose, sharp rocks seemed challenging enough.

I took my time, and made it to the first resting spot. "Don't worry," they told me. "That was the hard part. Well, actually, this next little section is really the hardest part... and then, after that... well, we won't say what's after that." I'm not sure how they thought that would be an encouragement to me, but I trudged valiantly upward and onward.

The landscape was so monotone and the sky was overcast, so it's hard to see the elevation change in the pictures. Believe me, we were going up! I wanted to give up a couple times, and just rest on a convenient rock until the rest of the gang came back by on their way down, but they wouldn't let me. "You can make it," they kept telling me.

And, finally, I did. This picture was taken on the top of the rock, by me! Again, with the lighting and monochromatic scenery it's a little hard to see the edge of the rock, but our group is standing pretty close to the edge. The green patches in the distance are the campgrounds (which are watered daily).

Naturally, going down was much easier than going up had been. But still, it was no walk in the park. Here's a view of the rock as I came around the side of it going down. I'm glad I decided to attempt it. I will say, it's not the best hiking trail I've ever been on, but it may well be the most challenging. Read: Not challenging at all for experienced hikers. Oh, well. It was an accomplishment for me.

Over the Top

As I mentioned before, I was selected as a blogger for the Women of Faith conference in Spokane, Washington this past weekend, and received two tickets to attend. As it turned out, I didn't end up going. However, I was able to bless my sister-in-law and her friend with the tickets. I asked my sister-in-law to let me know how it was, so I could post about it. Here's her report:

The theme of this year's Women of Faith Weekend in Spokane was "Over the Top". While the conference didn't feel "Over the Top", it was just what I needed. It was encouraging just to be among so many women who came seeking. Some sought worship, some new truths, some laughter, some, time to share with a friend, some just came because someone invited them and some came just to get away. I came for all of these reasons and was not disappointed.

I thought the speakers and artists were both transparent and vulnerable. They encouraged us to be real in the sharing of who we are with those we come in contact, and they led through the sharing of God's Word and examples from their own lives. I was reminded over and over that God knows each of our journeys. He cares, wants what is best for us, and walks with us (sometimes carries) as we experience ALL life's joys and challenges. One of the artists also reminded us that while this journey is real, we are only here for a time and our journey will never compare with that moment when "We Shall Behold Him."

Throughout the conference I heard that my God is Big. He is truly "Over the Top" with His love, His grace, His wisdom, comfort, creativity, His acceptance of who and where we are and best of all with His forgiveness. He is more than we can comprehend and HE is truly "Over the Top".

Thanks for the tickets. It was a fun time. I laughed, I cried, I was challenged and encouraged.

Happy 70th Birthday, Mother!

Her children rise up and call her blessed;

Her husband also, and he praises her: 

“Many daughters have done well,

But you excel them all.”
       Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing,
      But a woman who fears the LORD, she shall be praised.

Give her of the fruit of her hands,

And let her own works praise her in the gates.   

Proverbs 31:28-31

Ashes, Ashes - review

As a fan of audio books in general, I have been particularly pleased with the quality of readers of books from Oasis Audio. I was interested to review Ashes, Ashes by Jo Treggiari because the "end-of-the-world-as-we-know-it" theme intrigued me. I was surprised to discover, as I listened, that it wasn't actually a "Christian" book, as other titles I've received from Oasis Audio have been. It wasn't offensive in any way, just was a more "secular" story than what I expected.

It was an interesting premise, but the plot seemed a little slow in places. Not the most outstanding audio book I've ever listened to, but still enjoyable as a diversion while working or exercising. I'd probably give it 3 stars out of 5.

Here's the synopsis from the publisher telling about the plot of the story:

Smallpox epidemics, floods, droughts—for sixteen-year old Lucy, the end of the world came and went, stealing with it everyone she ever loved. Even the landscape of her beloved New York City is ever-shifting and full of hidden dangers. As the weather rages out of control, she survives alone in the wilds of Central Park, hunting and foraging for food and making do with the little she has, while avoiding roving scavengers and thieves. But when an unrelenting pack of vicious hounds begins to hunt her, Lucy is not sure she can continue on her own. Then, suddenly, she is swept to safety by a mysterious boy named Aidan, who helps her escape the hounds and urges her to join a band of survivors. Reluctantly, she finds him after her home is destroyed; however, new dangers await her.

An army of Sweepers terrorizes the camp, carting off innocent people and infecting them with the plague. Lucy and Aidan realize that it's up to them to save their friends, but Lucy doesn't know that the Sweepers have laid a trap—for her. There is something special about Lucy, and the Sweepers will stop at nothing to have her in their clutches.

Jo Treggiari spins a thrilling tale of adventure, romance, and one girl's unyielding courage through the darkest of nightmares.

Setting Up Shop

Do you shop at Etsy? If you like hand-made and/or vintage treasures, you really should! Some of my friends and relatives have had shops for awhile, but I hadn't spent much time there until recently. Then I got hooked, and decided to set up my own shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/karlyle. I'm having so much fun! It's quite addictive, I have to admit.

I've been going through a batch of charming vintage dress patterns, checking them for completeness, and scanning the envelope pictures to list. I've been a little surprised at how well they are selling. I thought I was probably the only one who just loved looking at old dress patterns.

I've also listed several sets of cotton crocheted washcloths that I made as a complement to my friend Cathy's hand-made-from-scratch soaps. She has a brand-new Etsy shop, too: Log Cabin Soaps. I have used her soaps and they are wonderful!

Now I'm trying to decide what other crocheted projects to offer... maybe vintage-style kitchen accessories (dish cloths and potholders)?

...or baby booties?

...or some of my 99 Little Doilies?

What do you think would sell? I'd really appreciate the input.

Also, if you have an Etsy shop, be sure and tell me about it, so I can visit and add you to my Circle!

Changing Seasons

 Summer got off to a late start in our part of the country. It was cool all through July, and was well into August before we had any hot weather to speak of. Obligingly, though, summer is lingering later than usual. We're continuing to have hot weather well into September.

In spite of the daytime temperatures, fall is definitely in the air. Our first clue was the Canadian soccer tournament that took place in the soccer field across the street about 3 weeks ago. I had no idea that the Canadian Geese enjoyed soccer, but they spent several days with us on their way south. We never did see them actually kicking a soccer ball, but I ask you: What else would they be doing over there all that time? Becky enjoyed snapping several pictures, so the photo credit goes to her for this post.

Dark comes earlier these days. Harvest scents are in the air. My mums are budding. Our school year routine is "falling" into place. It's obvious that fall will officially arrive next week.

I'm reminded of something my Granddaddy said in an old letter I came across recently:

Days come and go, years pass so hurriedly: but God is the same and we are happy in Him.
--Gordon Easley, September 16, 1964

A Lancaster County Christmas - review

Each year I find myself longing to simplify Christmas more. The idea of being stranded on an Amish farm for Christmas really doesn't sound all that bad to me. That's what happened to the characters in Suzanne Woods Fisher's latest novel: A Lancaster County Christmas. Suzanne's stories are always well-researched with believable characters, and while this wasn't my favorite of her books, it's a heart-warming story with a good reminder that God is always with us-- and that's really what Christmas is all about.

Here's the publisher's synopsis:

Jaime and C. J. Fitzpatrick began their married life as most couples do--in love and looking forward to a bright future together. But four years later they've drifted apart and are almost ready to call it quits.

Mattie Riehl was hoping to give her husband Sol the Christmas gift they have both longed for--news that a baby was on the way. But as usual, she is disappointed. The holidays bring an acute awareness to Mattie that her dream of a big family isn't likely to become a reality.

Then a winter storm raging outside blows the Fitzpatricks into the Riehl home--and into a much slower pace of life. Can these two couples from different worlds help each other understand the true meaning of love this Christmas?

With her trademark plot twists and attention to detail, Suzanne Woods Fisher offers readers a beautiful Christmas story of love, forgiveness, and what truly matters in life.

To celebrate the release of her first Christmas book, Suzanne Woods Fisher has teamed up with her publisher, Revell, to bring you the "Christmas in September" iPad Giveaway! The winner will be announced on 9/27 at the A Lancaster County Christmas Facebook Party! Details below. Tell your friends and join in the fun (9/7-9/27).

Oh and be sure to follow the blog tour here - many of the bloggers have copies of the book to giveaway! 

Suzanne and Revell will be presenting one merry winner with a Christmas Prize Pack (valued at over $600):

• A Brand New iPad 2 with Wi-Fi
• $25 gift certificate to iTunes
• A copy of A Lancaster County Christmas

To enter, click one of the icons below. But, hurry the giveaway ends on 9/26.

But, wait! There's more! The winner will be announced at the A Lancaster County Christmas Facebook Party on 9/27 at Suzanne's author page. During the party she'll be revealing something *BIG* - you won't want to miss it. She'll also be hosting a book chat, trivia contest and giving away a few early Christmas presents! Hope to see you there.

Labor Day Camping Trip

We camped at beautiful Priest Lake for the Labor Day weekend. We didn't actually end up staying at the campsite much this time. Lyle had planned out a full itinerary of Geocaches in the area, so we did a lot of exploring. It's such a gorgeous area, so that was a perfect plan-- and the weather cooperated nicely.

Here's the gang getting ready to set out on our first expedition...

...to this nearby scenic viewpoint. It was a moderate hike from the campground. Looks like we were all trying to capture the view through our various lenses. Maybe I should have got the photos from their phones, too. (Rebecca didn't have a camera, so she was on the lookout for cougars. Though there was a warning sign posted about them, we didn't see any. Thank goodness.)

The next geocache we attempted was a drive-up one. Sounds easy, right? Wrong. As we turned off the main road I asked how far it was "as the crow flies." The answer: "Just over 3 miles." I predicted it would take us 3 hours to find it, because even though we had two GPSs (three, if you count the phone) plus a detailed back-road atlas, we weren't real sure just what road to follow to find the coordinates. Naturally we made several wrong turns and had to do a lot of back-tracking. I was off on my prediction by one hour-- it only took us two hours to find it. It was on the top of a mountain with breath-taking views in all directions.

After we drove back down off that mountain we pursued another one that involved another quarter-mile hike to a different view of the lake. Apparently fall comes early to Priest Lake. We noticed changing foliage throughout the area.

On Monday morning we did a couple more quick and easy caches near the campground. This one was right on the lake shore. The water is so clear and pristine.

The girls caught a little frog and had to pose him on Laura's cap before they let him go.

Besides hiking, driving, and enjoying the weather and scenery, we also had a wonderful time as a family just hanging out together and conversing around the campfire in the evenings.

Sweet memories to treasure!

Winners!

It's time to announce the winners of my recent give-aways. For my Back-to-School contest I asked entrants to let me know what their plans are for the upcoming school year.

Winners of the Norman Rockwell print are:

• Lynn @ TDHGP who said, "We don't start school until after Labor Day either--and THIS year we're actually headed to the beach for Labor Day week so we won't start until September 12! YAY! I'm homeschooling 4!"
• Sweetpeas @ Broad Horizons who said, "We homeschool year round, so we're just keeping on keeping on, we're having great fun right now learning about Native Americans for history, bugs for Science, Picasso for Art . . . you get the idea!"
• Laura @ Harvest Lane Cottage who said, "We'll continue to work with Joplin Family Worship Center's tornado relief resource center in Joplin, MO. This of course is in addition to a rather eclectic school year."

The winner of the Sonlight tote bag is Lisa @ The McClanahan 7. She said, "We are homeschooling!! I would like to win the tote, we always need one."

I asked the entrants of the My Memories digital scrapbooking software giveaway to tell me what their favorite scrapbooking kit is on the My Memories home page.

The winner is Aliene @ Meditations and Memories. She said, "I like the Outside my window right now. Oh, this would be so much fun to win."

Congratulations, ladies! I'll be contacting you for your mailing addresses.