Meet Author Jessica Adams and her daughter, Janelle. This talented young lady not only writes her own stories, she illustrates them, too!
Let’s Meet Jessica Adams First
Why did you decide to publish children’s book, Jessica?
I have always enjoyed writing stories and poems. When an author/illustrator visited my elementary school when I was in sixth grade, I thought it would be neat to write a children’s book someday. I forgot about that dream until I had two daughters who were very messy and didn’t want to clean their toys up, so I came up with a story to inspire them to clean their rooms.
As parents, we can all relate to that one, Jessica.
What has been your favorite part of your writing journey?
My favorite part of my writing journey has been working on my stories with my kids. Another mom thought it would have been neat if my kids illustrated my first book since they are characters in the story. So, for the next books, I had my kids do the illustrations. Now Janelle has become quite the artist and has done an amazing job with illustrating Liam Lion Lost at the Bloomsburg Fair, Back to Grandmom, as well as Firefighter Fox. She’s hired for my next books, too!
I’m excited to hear about that one.
To find out more about Jessica, click on the image below to visit her website.
Let’s Meet Janelle Adams!
I see you wrote and illustrated a book called, Moon-Force 1.
What is your favorite part of your book?
My favorite part is when Mesa meets Ethan.
What is the best part of illustrating your books?
Animating them is a lot of fun after I write and draw my stories.
I bet you that keeps you busy with school and other activities.
What is your favorite thing to do in your spare time?
Of course, drawing and designing the characters from the books. It’s also a lot of fun thinking about each character’s designs.
What do you want to do when you finish high school?
Graphic Design
That doesn’t surprise me at all, Janelle. You will do very well at that and will be at the top of your studies with the experiences you have already had.
To find out more on Janelle’s books and talents, join her website here:
Outside of reading lots of books for this 2024 Goodreads challenge, (see more below) I’ve been working on my next project. You will hear bits and pieces of it over this next year.
There’s a part in the story where I’m researching different eras. I’ve already put a shout out to my family and friends on their memories from that time period.
Here was my question for them.
“If you were thirteen years old anytime during the 90s, what are some of your vivid memories. You can mention brand names, bands you listened to, fads you remember here, I just may not be able to use them in my book. I’ll try best to explain them in general terms, if not, I’ll leave those out.”
So, My Questions For You Today Is…..
What are your 90’s memories? Even if you were not thirteen on that decade, what’s a fun thing that stands out in your mind?
Goodreads Challenge Books 2024 and Reviews
Step into the 1890s America with author Kathy J. Perry’s book, “Finding Strength: During the Panic of 1893” (Emeline Book 2.) Claudia Gadotti, Illustrator, did a beautiful job with the images, as well.
Middle grade readers, and adults alike, will experience Emeline’s journey as she travels from Indianapolis to Missouri to take care of matters which are a huge undertaking, the family farm.
Perry’s impeccable descriptions will take the reader to the settings and hardships which will keep readers turning page after page until the end.
I highly recommend this book for those who want to experience the life of the late 1800s and so much more.
Jennifer Milius’s book, “Author Stylist Guide: Own Your Greatness, Get Visible, and Share Your Message,” is a book which is concise and will help authors and entrepreneurs planning any outside events for their books and/or products. Milius’s guide is full of ways to learn everything from managing what to do now your book is written. There are many guided questions at the end of each chapter which give you a plan in place for every aspect on what to do next. Everything from, what events will you choose which are best for you, your book or your product. How will you present yourself? How will you present your book and setup your table, and so much more. You will learn how to conduct yourself on podcasts and speaking engagements. How will you manage your inventory and the outcome of your profits? By following these steps in this guide, you will know how to plan and execute successful book events that will help promote your book and connect with lasting customers.
Another book I read last month was not counted towards the Goodreads Challenge because it was under 100 pages, was a book I featured in March.
Welcome to Books by Rose March 2024 as we dive into author Sandra Bennett’s new release, “Dragons Drumming.” If you live in areas where storms are abundant, you will want to get a copy of this one for your young readers!
Meet Author Sandra Bennett
Even though Sandra lives on the other side of the world from me, I feel we have always been kindred spirts and have the same ideals when it comes to, family, children and education.
Let’s get started.
Sandra, how did you arrive at your new story?
It was a dark and stormy night. You know how the rest of the story goes. You’ve heard it all before, … or have you?
In my case, it was a grey and gloomy afternoon. Storm clouds gathered on the horizon; distant thunder grew louder. By the time the storm blew across into our valley, the rain lashed sideways, striking our windows. The wind whirled through the trees as the rumbles became even louder grumbles. Lightning lit up the sky in sheets as bolts struck the ground. The house shook. My grandson was terrified. He clung to his mother for comfort, while my little dog scrambled for cover under the protection of her favourite hiding place, a bed.
It just took one simple sentence from my daughter-in-law to calm my grandson.
‘Don’t worry honey, it’s just the dragons drumming.’
I could see the glint in his eyes as my grandson considered this. His inquisitive mind immediately playing in overdrive. He peered through the window to the storm outside and tried to look towards the sky. Then, with a deep breath he bravely asked if he could go outside to get a better look at the dragons.
From that simple, innocent encounter, I knew a story was born. I could imagine an entire family of dragons, each playing a different percussion instrument. The commotion and possibilities were enormous and unstoppable.
How did you go about finding your illustrator?
I considered my options and quickly concluded that if I wanted to see this story published, I had to do it myself. Within various writing groups I had heard the names Tadaa Book and Anil Tortop many times. Then I happened to attend a SCBWI ACT lunch where I was shown the incredible work that Tadaa were doing for a friend. She had nothing but praise for working with them and so, my decision was made. I knew they were the perfect choice to help bring my dream to reality. After seeing several of the books that Anil Tortop had illustrated, I really wanted to work with her. Unfortunately, Anil was not available for twelve months as she was already booked. However, her husband, Ozan suggested that I look at the portfolios of several other illustrators he had on his books. I decided to go ahead with Maya Bora as I liked what I saw and believed she would be an ideal fit.
I adored Maya Bora’s illustrations right from the initial concepts. She seemed to just get me. We shared the same vision. The Tadaa Book team made the entire process so easy, stress free and enjoyable.
Sandra, here is my 5 Star review for “Dragons Drumming and where to buy on ► Amazon
“Author Sandra Bennett’s. “Dragons Drumming” is the perfect rhyming book for young readers who are afraid of storms. Illustrator Maya Bora sets the story with vivid colors to match this darling tale. I wish I would have had a book like this growing up as we live where the storms are a large part of our spring. This book gives a positive twist to the thundering skies by imagining, “Dragon’s Drumming.” I highly recommend this book for homes and classrooms which would make great read a louds. A child who is learning how to read will enjoy this book and will gain confidence as they work their way through the fun words.”
Sandra, what other books have you written you wish to share with our readers?
I also have a chapter book series for older readers, 7 -12 years. The Adamson Adventures is a four-book series, with the fourth and final book about to be released in June this year. This series takes three siblings, Zac, Clare and Luke on holidays to strange and amazing places where they inevitably fall into mischief and strife one way or another.
In Secrets Hidden Below, book1, the family is on vacation in exotic Bali when Luke happens to come across a map in a bottle buried deep in the sand on Kuta beach. Naturally, our reluctant heroes find a treasure map irresistible, and the pirate treasure hunt leads them to various locations around the island. Followed by a sinister shadow, the tension continues to increase right to the nail-biting climax in an erupting volcano. This book was short-listed in the Australian Speech Pathology Book of the Year Awards in 2019.
A Lighthouse in Time, book 2, finds the family on yet another surfing holiday much closer to home. While exploring a cave on the NSW South Coast, the kids are lost, only to be rescued by a strange figure who quickly disappears once they reach the safety of sunlight. The mystery of the ghost-like figure unfolds around the ruins of an old sandstone lighthouse where all is not what it seems as many strange happenings occur.
Fossil Frenzy, book 3, takes a different turn as the kids head inland to their uncle’s drought-stricken farm in the harsh Queensland outback. Quite innocently, Zac, has a plan to help save the farm by searching for fossils. With the disbelief that a cyclone or two could possibly merge and rain down on them, the kids are caught in a terrifying storm and forced to seek shelter. When all is calm, and they emerge, the environment is suddenly very different. The trio appear to have time-travelled to the land of Australian dinosaurs. Now they must find a way home while trying to stay safe and not become a mega-raptors meal. This book has been a finalist in several international awards and won a competition to be pitched to film producers here in Australia in 2020. Tracks in the Mist, book 4 is almost here. The final thrilling adventure is set in the rainforest wilderness of Southern Tasmania as the kids go on a search and rescue mission to find their beloved secret pet that somehow goes missing from the farm. I don’t want to give away too much yet, suffice to say, they find much more in the Tasmanian wilderness than they ever expected. It’s a story of endangered species and the fight for survival.
Thank you so much for being here today, Sandra! I’ve enjoyed learning more about your new book. Best wishes on all your books and your writing journey!
If you have any questions or comments for Sandra and her books, please leave us a note below. I know she would love to hear from you.
What’s New at Books by Rose?
This short month has kept me busy with various activities. Yes, I’m still in the Goodreads Reading Challenges for 2024 and getting in a lot of books.
I’m also reading many books which will be released in the coming months, which you will hear more about. I have a project I’m working on for 2024 and very excited about that one, too. Keep watching!
Goodreads Challenge 2024
February, I’ve read and reviewed…
“Modern Fashion Illustration,” book by Holly Nichols gets a 5 star review from me all the way! This easy to understand and practice guide is so helpful with traditional drawing and digital drawing, as well. If you are interested in drawing, faces, bodies, designer clothes and other styles of fashions, this book is for you. Nichols also explains background ideas along with props to add to your projects. I highly recommend this book.
Author Lori Luster with “Fashion Forward: Creating Your Look With the Best of Vintage Style (Craft It Yourself,)” is a fun fashion book everyone will enjoy. Styles from the 1920s – the 1990s will give readers a look at the various styles throughout these awesome decades. Readers also are given suggestions on how to pull off these styles with items they can put together on their own. I really enjoyed reading about some of these fads in clothing which I had forgotten about. Go-Go boots, Paper Dresses, the colors, fabrics, hairstyles, makeup and so much more.
Author Flora Ahn presents, “A Spoonful of Time” which brings readers many twists and turns. The recipes throughout this book to convey a history with her grandmother were interesting and worth looking into. This “time travel” book holds many mysteries to the end.
“The Big Book of Mod Podge: Decoupage Made Easy,” by Plaid Enterprises, Inc. was one I was excited to read. I really enjoyed learning about all the different Mod Podge products as I never knew of some of them were available. The crafts and ideas made in the book are a bit dated since this book was written in 2015. Just the same, the techniques could be used for more updated projects. One can also find projects from this company on Youtube which is helpful.
I adored Marion Ross’s book, “My Days: Happy and Otherwise.” As reluctant as she was to write her autobiography, she did a beautiful job relaying the story of her life with all her experiences in show biz and her personal journey. She may be best known as, “Mrs. C.” in “Happy Days,” but she has made many other wonderful movies, TV shows and plays to add to her list, plays being her hearts desires. I didn’t want her book to end as it was like sitting down and visiting with a longtime friend. I highly recommend this one if you like reading about stars. I’ve added this one to my favorites for this years reading list, so far.
Valentine’s Day hits in the winter and it can be cold! If you are in the Midwest area, bless you (and us) for this surge of blustery cold and dark days. It has calmed down a bit as I write this blog, but it will happen again in the coming months. I hope these tips and tricks will get you through those wintery, blue days.
Let’s Talk About Valentine’s Day
If you look up the origin of this heartfelt holiday, most of it is geared towards those in relationships and those in LOVE. If you are one of those who are not in a particular relationship at this time, it can make you feel somewhat left out of the whole holiday tradition. I have great news to tell you…
Valentine’s Day Is For EVERYONE!
Below are some fun activities you could make for your family, friends, neighbors, teachers, or anyone to tell them how much you care for them and appreciate them.
Easy Valentine’s Day Craft
If you have followed my blog for sometime, you know I love puzzles!
Here’s an easy Valentine’s card to make. This one is especially fun for your little ones to put together, too.
Think of fun things to write on your card. Use this idea for other occasions, as well. How about a snowman? A pumpkin? A birthday?
Just place all the parts and pieces in an envelope to give.
For Valentine’s Day, create a heart like this and write a message.
Next, cut up. You can make this as complicated as you wish, depending on the recipient.
Glue down on a marked shape heart, matching the puzzle.
Valentine’s Day Treat
Strawberry Crisp
If this recipe sounds to familiar, you are right. I probably share this one more than I can count. But wait, I FOUND A NEW WAY TO MAKE IT! I’m so excited to share this one with you!
Yes, it’s has all the same ingredients as the Cherry and Apple Crisp you have seen on here before but with Strawberry Pie Filling. I also found a new trick to making this even better!
One can of Strawberry Pie Filling
¾ cup instant oatmeal (I use 2 packs of the Maple Brown Sugar Oatmeal.)
¾ cup flour
¾ cup brown sugar (packed)
¼ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon baking soda
½ cup of melted butter (1 stick)
Here’s the update on this recipe.
Soak the instant oatmeal mixture in the butter for awhile before adding the other ingredients. (Do it as long as it takes to preheat your oven.)
Mix your other ingredients to the butter and oatmeal.
Once it’s crumbly, spread half of it in a sprayed 5×9 baking dish. Add the canned Strawberry pie filling. Top with the other half of the crumbly mixture and pat down.
Bake at 350 degrees for 25-30 minutes, once golden brown. (Don’t overcook, you want the pie filling to stay gooey.) Let cool a bit before eating.
Option: Top with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream when it’s a little warm. Yum! Since this dessert contains fruit, refrigerate leftovers. It’s very tasty cold, too.
Other Things to Keep You Busy
Visit with a friend or friends. Invite them to lunch, give them a call, a text, or write a letter to someone.
Think of a special meal or dessert you would share with someone. If you can’t physical share it with them, send them one of your favorite recipes, letting them know you thought they’d enjoy it.
Watch A Funny Movie (s)
Make a bowl of popcorn and sit down for some laughs.
The movie, “Heart and Soul” does make me laugh. (It can bit a bit sad though, too.) “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off,” is another funny one.
What movie suggestions can you give that make you laugh?
When All Else Fails…READ!
My Reading Challenge So Far For 2024…
All five star reviews for these books below.
“Terrier Transgressions (Pet Whisperer P.I. #2,)” by Molly Fitz was an entertaining book. I have read the first one in this series, but author Fitz wrote this a way you would not have to read that one. If you like, “who done it,” books you will enjoy this one. This book is appropriate for YA readers and up.
“The Beginner’s Guide to Procreate: Everything You Need to Know to Master Digital Art,” by Roché Woodworth is an easy to understand book for digital artists and beginners. You do not have to have Procreate to learn the steps instructed in this book if you are already familiar with digital art programs. There may be some differences, but the knowledge is much the same.
An easy read by, Debbie Macomber. “Must Love Flowers” had subplots to keep the story interesting and rooting for the characters. It is a story of losing those who were loved. This story may be helpful for those seeking comfort when the time is right. For those still suffering, it may trigger some uncomfortable feelings. I’ve always enjoyed Debbie Macomber’s books and this one did not disappoint.
Walter Foster Creative Team presents “How to Draw & Paint Fashion & Costume Design: Artistic inspiration and instruction from the vintage Walter Foster archives (Walter Foster Collectibles.)” My favorite pages were 1- 17 where the introduction is complete with supplies and techniques for drawing and painting. I love vintage outfits and was entertained with the various styles from the different eras. The only downside I found in this book were the drawing instructions, which is not the fault of the authors? I believe, they were showing how designers from the past arrived at costume designing. Now in 2024, there are much easier ways to draw and come up with the same concept. If you like vintage fashions and styles, you will enjoy this book.
“Joshua Weissman: Texture Over Taste,” by Joshua Weissman was a book I almost gave a 4 star review, then I realized, it’s not my fault we don’t have a Mandoline slicer for cutting and some of the ingredients are not readily available to us in our nearby stores. They did peak my curiously, though. I really did enjoy Chef Weissman’s cookbook. It is one for adults to follow. (Heads up, it does have some adult language, so if that offends you as a reader, you may want to pass on this one.) The chapter heads and explanations were spot on and entertaining. Joshua Weissman has quite of bit of scientific knowledge behind the recipes he shared which were very easy to understand. One can pull him up on Youtube for a variety of tips and tricks to making great food. I bookmarked many recipes, even if I saved them for just the sauces or for how to cook a particular item. If you want to learn the ins and outs of creamy, chewy, or crunchy, etc., and great flavors, this book is for you.
Update On What I’ve Been Doing
Yes, I’m still into art and cookbooks. With all the supplies I received for Christmas, I’m having a blast planning my next project. It will be awhile and may take me the good part of 2024 to finish but keep watching!
Oh, and I highly suggest looking into a “Food Saver.” It will save me a ton of time this summer when baseball season is here. With so many games, it’s hard to be home to cook every night.
The Holidays are here! Are you relaxed and ready or are you in a frenzy?
As I prepare this post for December, it makes me realize how the days are going fast, once again.
Some years, we are on top of things getting ready for the holidays. As you read below, you’ll find out what is working for us this year and what has not.
Shopping
We started our shopping this year the end of October. To be honest, I jot down things year round for ideas for this person and that one. For some reason though, those items don’t always seem to become the part of our Christmas shopping.
There’s just something about the holiday spirit that keeps you on your toes. Other responsibilities get added to the mix, and the next thing you know, you’re in a frenzy to get everything done on time. Phew, right?
We love to go to antique malls to find different and unique things for gifts for loved ones. There’s some crazy things out there folks! When we see something that we know our special loved ones will like, we snatch it up as fast as we can.
After that, we get very serious. We make sure we get something that is completely wanted by each family member. Once all that’s complete, our shopping is done.
Holiday Meals
Our holiday meals run pretty much the same every year. For example, If we know another family is hosting a turkey dinner around Thanksgiving, we fix something else.
This year, we repeated the tradition with BBQ Oven Baked Ribs. (Recipe below.)
I know everyone’s favorite foods, so adding those to the mix is how the meal is planned. That part is easy peasy. Now, cooking for triple people I’m used to is another story. Planning it out to even what dish is going to hold what is the ticket that saves me. Having containers ready for leftovers and “takeaways,” is another stress reliever for me.
Even though I tend to get a little stressed getting those last minute dishes finished and keeping everything hot, it all turns out and everyone is pleased. Thank you, family!
Oh, and our Christmas Eve Meal will be our go-to like it is every year. Velveeta Chicken (recipe below)
Other Goals I Got Myself Into
Book Projects
If you have been following along, I dedicated the whole month of October with two new releases.
One goal I clearly made this year is to have all my writing and illustrating done before November. I also told myself to not even think about creating a new storybook over the holidays. Now that one is super hard for me. I always have ideas for new books tumbling around in my head. This year, I jot them down and walk away. They will be there for me in 2024.
Reading Challenge in Goodreads
If you follow my page on a regular basis, you know I’ve made the commitment to read 50 books in 2023 and record them in Goodreads. I thought at the time, “that won’t be hard, I love to read!”
Well, let me tell you, those numbers snuck up in me. It’s really my fault though, I’m guilty of getting the biggest books possible! Ha! Next year, I’m watching those page numbers. As I’m writing this, I currently have four books sitting next to me which I’m reading. Each morning, I read a chapter of each book as I’m drinking my coffee. Since I get most of my books at our local library, that keeps me on track too…unless I want to pay the late fee, which I rarely do. After these title are read, I’ll be up to 42 books with 8 more to go in December. I hope I make it!
If you are interested in the books I’ve read so far, you can check them out ► here.
I plan to give my most recent books I’ve read proper reviews when I have time.
Tell Us How You Handle Your Holidays. Let’s Hear From You!
Do you plan way ahead with events for November and December or do you take things as they come?
What other goals are you trying to catch up on?
Have you ever eliminated goals you had to stay caught up?
Wishing you all a wonderful, fun, safe and stress free holiday season.
As always,
Happy Reading!
Rosie
As Promised…Oven Baked BBQ Ribs and Velveeta Chicken
I have shared both of these recipes in the past, but wanted to share for my new fans attending my page. I hope you will enjoy these recipes as much as our family does.
Easy Oven Baked Tender Baby Back Ribs
One slab, Baby Back Ribs, back membrane removed for the best tender bites!
Regular mustard and seasonings of your choice.
Directions:
Rub in mustard and seasonings on both sides.
Wrap in foil so juices won’t escape.
Bake at 275° for 3 hours.
Turn oven up to 400° (No need to preheat.)
Cut open foil, add your favorite BBQ sauce mixed with a small splash of liquid smoke. Bake for 25-30 more minutes.
Then, broil 3-5 minutes until sauce thickens, or however you like it.
Set on plate and cool in the refrigerator overnight. (The meat will literally fall off the bone if you don’t. If you like it that way, you can shred it up for sandwiches.)
Cut apart the next day. Heat in microwave for a few minutes when ready to eat.
Velveeta Chicken
Here’s the basic recipe, but I always double it for our crowd. Plus, they love the leftovers.
1 large chicken, cooked, deboned and cut into bite size pieces.
1 box of chicken flavored stuffing, prepared according to directions
1 can of cream of chicken soup
1/2 can of milk
1/4 block of Velveeta Cheese, sliced thin
Directions:
Boil, stew, or roast a whole chicken.
Place the cooked cut up chicken in an 9 x 12, sprayed pan
In a sauce pan, add soup, milk, and sliced Velveeta cheese. Stir over low heat until blended and cheese is melted. Add a splash of milk if it seems too thick. (You will want a mixture that resembles pancake batter consistency.)
Meanwhile, prepare the box of stuffing according to the directions.
Spoon the cheesy soup mixture over the chicken.
Add stuffing to the top in an even layer.
Bake uncovered at 350 degrees for 30 minutes, or until bubbly hot.
Before you go, incase you missed my November news, click on the image below.
With the Goodreads Challenge I’ve been blogging about in my ► past posts.
To see all the books I’ve read and reviewed so far this year, go straight to my ► Goodreads Challenge 2023.
The summer months have slowed my reading down as we are spending more time outdoors. We’ve been on a few trips, but instead of reading, I’ve been drawing. That news is for another day, though.
I’ve checked out more books at our local library than I read. Two large novels were sent back. They were not at all my “cup of tea” but that’s okay. No offense to those authors, we can’t expect to connect with every book we pick up, right?
The books I did manage to read so far this past month are:
“Taste of Home All-American Cookbook: 370 Ways to Savor the Flavors of the USA, “by Taste of Home
For years, I subscribed to the “Taste of Home” magazine. So, when I saw this book at the library, I grabbed it up. I’m so glad I did!
“Taste of Home All-American Cookbook: 370 Ways to Savor the Flavors of the USA” is a great cookbook. I enjoyed all the small back stories from those who submitted recipes. This book would be a helpful edition to have on hand for everyday meals to large crowds, picnics and so much more.
“Kitty Confidential,” by Molly Fitz
Pet Whisperer P.I. #1 “Kitty Confidential,” by Molly Fitz was an engaging book and kept me on my toes on, “who done it?” If you like pets, in this case, cats, you will enjoy this one. I’m glad I found author Molly Fitz. Her writing is great, humorous and I have added her books to my “to read” list.
Now For Some Really Big News!
The proof to my fourteenth is on it’s way!! I’m so excited to see what it looks like.
I want to thank all my Beta Readers for looking it over. I appreciate you all!
Hopefully if all goes as planned, I’ll release it this fall. I’ll keep you posted.
What Are Your August Plans?
Are you getting in your last days of summer traveling?
Are you busy getting your kids ready for back to school?
Don’t forget to tell how you will spend Book Lovers Day 2023and what you have been reading.
We’d loved to hear from you. Leave us a note in the comment section. Always feel free to sign up to my “Books by Rose” site for more new to come, too!
Time is going fast and before you know it, you’ll be thinking about your kids returning back to school. Psst, don’t tell them I said that. They want to enjoy every bit of their summer while they can. Parents, you should, too. 😊
When I was planning this month’s blog, I had many other things in mind, but something occur to me over the 4th of July.
When our grands are here, I almost always end up getting my art supplies out. That’s quite alright with me because I love it. We make cards for those we love, but most of the time we just “art,” as I like to call it.
The oldest one is well settled into “art.” The younger one has to be shown how to use paint, glue, tape, scissors, etc.
I remember when our sons started school, the teachers were impressed they both knew how to handle cutting and how to respectfully treat their art supplies. That’s because we spent hours and hours making things for holidays, or just for the fun of it, almost everyday.
Kids Need Art For So Many Reasons.
Art Improves:
Fine motor skills
Problem solving
Cognitive development
Social-Emotional and mastering self-esteem and creativity, and so much more.
Ways To Teach How To Use Simple Art Supplies
We are going to explore just a few tips today on how to use common art supplies you have around your home. These tips may sound simple to us, but they are not for little hands.
Glue and Paint in Bottles
We’ve all heard the expression, “Just a Dot, Not a lot.” Sounds good, but do children really know how to do that?
Let them explore with glue or paint in bottles. Have them squeeze a small amount on a piece of paper. The first few times, they will add large blobs and that’s okay. How will they ever know how much control to use when doing this if they haven’t experimented, right?
Yes, sometimes it’s okay to add large amounts, but more often than not, they won’t need so much. Learning this way before school when teachers are giving them instructions, will make them ahead in the game. It also teaches them not to waste valuable art supplies.
Scissors
Once you know which hand your child will be more comfortable cutting with, you can start with instructions by doing this. (Note: Just because they write with their left or right hand, doesn’t mean they will choose that hand. (Example: I’m left handed, but cut with my right. I know, different, right?)
Holding a pair of scissors. This will all depend on the size of the scissors they use. The example I’m using here is for the style of scissors pictured below. Vary this technique on the style and what’s comfortable for your child.
In this example, remember the pinky finger is the smallest. It’s too young to cut, so they have to stay back out of the scissors.
Ring finger, middle and pointer finger gets to go together in the largest section of the scissors.
In the smaller circle, the thumb gets to point up and guides to help the scissors move.
Then, go to town snipping. Snip, snip, snip. (Keeping the other hand holding the paper and clear out of the way. No need getting those guys involved, right? Ouch!
Don’t expect your child to become proficient in this for a long time. Let them get used to the feel and motion of how it all works. Once they get this skill down, then you can move on to cutting straight lines, moving on to curves, etc.
Tape
Such a simple thing for us to use, but little hands have to be taught.
Most household adhesive tapes have small metal teeth on them to cut the tape off. Show your child where those teeth are and what it does. Remind them this part is sharp so be careful getting their fingers too close.
Other tapes come in rolls which are easy to pinch and tear. (Another great “fine motor skill” for them to learn.)
If using household adhesive tape, show them how to keep the tape flat between their pointer finger and thumb and gently pull once they get to the teeth to break off the amount they need. Again, these first few times, they will use a lot, but that’s okay. They’ll get the hang of it over time. Your kids will love taping things, and I mean everything.
Paint and Paint Brushes
Not everyone has an abundance of paint brushes around the house. Check to see if your dollar store carries them. They don’t have to be fancy, they just need to work. If you want to use Q-Tips or cotton balls to paint with or apply glue, that’s great, too. I always keep a lot on hand to make clean up easier.
Paint
Again, paint does not have to be expensive to work. This is a great time for your child to experiment with mixing the primary colors. Example: Red and blue make purple. Blue and yellow make green, red and yellow make orange, and so forth.
Bottom line, art is fun but also teaches them so many great things. Don’t forget to have them tell you about their projects to further their language skills, too. 😊
Teachers reading these suggestions, please feel free to add more tips for what students need to learn about using art supplies before starting school. Thank you!
Now, On To Other News at Books by Rose.
Goodreads Challenge 2023
I’m up to 26 books for the year in Goodreads. I knew the summer months would slow down with all our outside activities. Here’s my latest updates with two great books I’ve enjoyed this past month.
Don’t let the size of this 528 page book, “Big Tree,” by Brian Selznick scare you. Many illustrations are sprinkled throughout this book with short paragraphs, as well. This story would be a wonderful read aloud for parents and classrooms adding great discussions for further learning.
“Anatomy of a Breakthrough: How to Get Unstuck When It Matters Most,” by Adam Alter is a book you’ll want to take your time to read. Readers will find many stories, situations and examples on how to “breakthrough” tough spots in life, jobs, creativity, and so much more. I was impressed with this book from the beginning to end. Alter’s writing style is easy to understand. The amount of research he did to write this book is also followed up at the end for further reading. I highly recommend everyone to check out this book for those times you feel, “stuck.”
One More Thing…
Want to be a Beta Reader for my next book? It’s ready! Even though this book will not be released until the fall, I’d still like to have it finished and ready to go. If all goes well with my book going into print, I may have some other news to announce. Fingers crossed. 😊
How’s Your Summer Going?
Making any new art projects? We’d love to see those!
How about book suggestions you’d like to share?
Any new writing projects you are working on you want to tell us about?
As the temperatures rise and the days grow longer, it’s clear that summertime has arrived. The season is filled with opportunities for fun in the sun, from pool parties, backyard barbecues and picnics in the park. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during the warmer months.
My author friends and I are doing a Blog Hop to kick off the summer season. Please click on their blog posts below to see what they have planned, too.
In this months blog post, explore three activities my family and I will spend most of our time for some summertime fun.
My Favorite Three “B” Things to Do in the Summer
*Baseball/Softball
*BBQ
*Books
Baseball/Softball
For those who have followed me for sometime now, they know baseball is a huge part of our lives and has been for more years than I can count.
With our oldest son starting t-ball at age 5, then playing baseball every year of his life until adulthood. He is currently active in softball, coaching his own team for 17 years now. His dad and I have been welcomed on his team over those years. I’ve become more of a cheerleader than player these days. We have such a great group and they are a blast to be around.
Our youngest son caught the baseball bug early on, as well. He too, excelled with this sport all through childhood, high school and pitched in college. He’s currently coaching he’s son’s year round team and loves every minute of it. Yes, they even practice in an enclosed area in the winter. He has a team of players and parents who are as dedicated to this sport as he is.
That leaves us attending lots of baseball games, which we love!
Watching our grandson play and grow in this game is our favorite!
Oh, I forgot to mention. We have our granddaughter in t-ball now and it’s the cutest thing ever. Of course this grandma’s opinion, they are both top notch in their games. 😉
BBQ
Living in the Midwest, and particularly, KCMO and Kansas City, KS, BBQ is the much requested meal and talked about food.
I conducted a survey with a few of our friends and asked their favorite places and what they like the most about their choices of BBQ restaurants.
Slap’s BBQ (KCK) is Jim R’s favorite. Their BBQ Ribs with the white BBQ sauce is his go-to. He also mentioned their Bake Potato Casserole is a side dish you won’t want miss.
Mindy R. claims Joe’s Barbeque, in KS (formally known as Oklahoma Joe’s) and is her favorite place to dine for BBQ.
Jeff Z. said, “Gates BBQ and their sauce is his all time favorite.”
I personally like, Arthur Bryant’s. Their sandwiches are served with just a few slices of white bread, nothing fancy, but the meat? Amazing!
Gates and Arthur Bryant’s were noted to be the two oldest barbecue spots in our city. In fact, they style their BBQ back to a well known chef, Henry Perry, Kansas City’s original barbecue king.”
Click here to read more about how he started it all in the early 1900s! ► Henry Perry (Credit: NPR in Kansas City)
Books
After being shut in all winter, I love sitting out on our deck in the summertime reading.
I think I’ve mentioned once the baseball months start, my reading would slow down a bit and it sure has. I still have tried to read everyday, even if it’s a page here and there. My goal in Goodreads is to read 50 in 2023 and I have completed 23 books so far.
My Books in May:
“Dying of Politeness: A Memoir,” by Geena Davis
My Review: (For Adult Readers)
“If you have enjoyed movies with Geena Davis, you’ll like her new book, “Dying of Politeness: A Memoir,” with stories behind her movies and life growing up. She shares a candid, (strong language) look at her years in show business, marriages and so much more. Even though I did not hear the CD of this story, I could almost hear her say the words as I read her memoir.”
“As Bright as Heaven,” by Susan Meissner
My Review:(For Adult Readers)
“As Bright as Heaven,” by Susan Meissner, written in 2018, is not a book I would have been able to read close to the events of 2020. In 1918, the Spanish Flu took many lives. Author Meissner’s historical fiction explains this emotional story with the Bright family and their three daughters. After living in rural rural Quakertown, they move and began their new lives in Philadelphia. The father, Thomas, is asked to come and work in his uncle’s funeral home, which is also located where they will live, as well. The first half of the book sets the stage with twists and turns for the second half of this story. I enjoyed how this was written, breaking it down to each of the daughters thoughts and feelings throughout the pages. I’m looking forward to reading more of Susan Meissner’s books.”
“100 Things to Do in Kansas City Before You Die,” by Traci Angel (For All Readers.)
My Review:
It didn’t take me long to read this 160 page book, “100 Things to Do in Kansas City Before You Die,” by Traci Angel. Since growing up in KCMO, I knew of most of these places, but not all. I’m looking forward to checking them out. Angel’s has a 2nd edition, which I was able to put on hold at our local library. I’m looking forward to that one, as well. If you ever plan to visit KCMO and our surrounding areas, you’ll want to look into these books. Make sure you check online to see if these sites are still open since a lot has changed since this 1st book was written in 2015. Her 2nd edition is more current, 2022.
Currently Reading:(For Adult Readers)
I’m on page 119 with this book I’m currently reading, “What Happened to the Bennetts,” by Lisa Scottoline. So far, it’s a real page turner. My sister suggested it from her book club and they all said it’s a really great story. I have to agree and looking forward to finishing it.
Now, let’s join some more summertime blogs below…
Take a trip to where these awesome authors live and how they will spend their summer months.
As an author, there is nothing more exhilarating than seeing your hard work come to fruition in the form of a published book. However, the journey doesn’t end there; there is still the book launch to look forward to. And let me tell you, my 13th book launch was nothing short of a blast!
Here’s a peek of a few of the days of my book launch and what we all talked about.
I asked everyone to add their Fun Fish Facts. I learned so much from this and I think you will, too.
Click on each image below to see all the answers from my Facebook post.
In Big E’s book there are a few jokes Big E’s Papa shares with him at lunchtime.
I asked fans to “Make Us Laugh” with a few jokes they knew.
(Again, click on the image to see the jokes.)
Yum! Fish Recipes! Oh my, did I get some great fish recipes on this day.
► Click below.
Finally, I had to admit to my fans that I’ve only fished once in my lifetime.
I now want to try fishing again with all the fun facts and tips I’ve learned.
“What Am I Not Doing Here?”
Three Helpful Book Or Product Launch Tips
Here’s a few simple, but important, tips I learned and wanted to share with you if or when you plan your next launch for your book or new product.
*Be prepared, but be flexible. (I’d say spend at least a month or more, gathering all your images, words, etc. and what you will do each day. Yes, a lot of work, but all the planning is worth it.)
*Have more plannedthan what you will use. (Be ready to switch things up, if needed. You will get the feeling from your audience on what’s working and what’s not. In this case, it’s always better to have more than less.)
*Have fun! By all means enjoy this time to celebrate your new book or product. If you have the 1st and 2nd tips in place, your book/product launch will be a breeze.
Reviews for Big E’s Book So Far…
The reviews are coming in and we are so pleased for these for Big E’s story so far.
If you have read this book, we’d love to hear from you! Big E would be so excited, too. Yes, he is a real person, and in fact, my great-nephew.
Remember my post from April and how I talked about ► “Finding Time to Read?” I was wondering if I was going to get in some reading time last month?
Since book launches require you to stay involved with your fans during that time, that’s exactly what I did. I still was able to get in these titles.
“The Super Miraculous Journey of Freddie Yates,” by Jenny Pearson
My Review: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I picked up a copy of “The Super Miraculous Journey of Freddie Yates,” by Jenny Pearson at our local library and wasn’t a hundred percent sure it would be the book for me. Reading it as an adult, my perspective might be different than what a middle grade reader may enjoy. I did find it to be funny, heartfelt and entertaining with the various situations Freddie Yates and his friends got themselves into. I’m giving it five stars for all the action which will keep middle grade readers turning the pages. I enjoyed author Jenny Pearson’s writing and look forward to reading more of her books.
“Little People, BIG DREAMS: Treasury: 50 Stories of Brilliant Dreamers,” by Maria Isabel Sánchez Vegara
My Review: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I’ve seen the “Little People,” series and then I found this! “Little People, BIG DREAMS: Treasury: 50 Stories of Brilliant Dreamers,” by Mª Isabel Sánchez Vegara. “This 224 page book is a beautiful, gold trimmed book filled with wonderful, talented creatives we all have heard about over the years. It’s written for young children but will be treasured by adults, as well. I’m adding this book to my list for the next time I’m thinking of giving a book gift. Classrooms and families will want to include this book on their shelves to enjoy for years to come.”
“Drawing the Head and Hands,” by Andrew Loomis
My Review: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Drawing the Head and Hands,” by Andrew Loomis is a large book with detailed instructions on drawing heads and hands. Many illustrations to learn from, when drawing all ages from infants to older individuals. Step by step instructions were easy to follow.
This drawing book is somewhat dated for today’s times. If you enjoy vintage drawings, you will love this book. The instructions on how to draw are basic in today’s standards, though, and will help those learning.
I created a more modern version of the various tips I learned. What do you think?
“The Art of Drawing Poses for Beginners: Techniques for drawing a variety of figure poses in graphite pencil (Collector’s Series,)” by Ken Goldman
My Review: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Art of Drawing Poses for Beginners: Techniques for drawing a variety of figure poses in graphite pencil (Collector’s Series,)” by Ken Goldman shows many different figure poses of all ages. It starts off learning detailed human anatomy, the skeletal and muscular structure, expressive portraits to realistic poses. This 8 x 11, 144 page book is be easy to pull out and practice when needed.
“The Chanel Sisters,” by Judithe Little
My Review: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I enjoyed, “The Chanel Sisters,” by Judithe Little. This historical fiction novel is about Coco Chanel and her sister. They were abandoned and placed in a catholic orphanage in their early years. It was interesting to follow their growth and how they evolved into early adulthood. This book is full of fashion, hard work in pursuing one’s dreams and a bit of romance sprinkled throughout this story.
“Irresistible: The Rise of Addictive Technology and the Business of Keeping Us Hooked,” by Adam Alter.
My Review: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I picked up this book at our local library and found it so interesting. I can’t quit talking about it and I hope everyone reads this book. “Irresistible: The Rise of Addictive Technology and the Business of Keeping Us Hooked,” by Adam Alter. This book was written in 2017. It made we think the whole time I was reading it, what could it be like for those addicted now in 2023 with our ever growing online world? Alter explains, the science of addiction, the emotions of recovery, personal journeys, triggers that may occur overcoming addiction and so much more. It’s a book I think everyone should read to inform themselves, especially those with young children.
“The Joy of Writing a Great Cookbook: How to Share Your Passion for Cooking from Idea to Published Book to Marketing It Like a Bestseller,” by Kim Yorio
My Review: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
If you are entertaining the thought of writing a cookbook, this book is a must read. Actually, this book is helpful for any writing. “The Joy of Writing a Great Cookbook: How to Share Your Passion for Cooking from Idea to Published Book to Marketing It Like a Bestseller,” by Kim Yorio explains it all from traditional publishing to independent publishing. This 159 page book is informative and also filled with many authors experiences on their cookbooks.
“How I Learned to Cook: Culinary Educations from the World’s Greatest Chefs,” by Kimberly Witherspoon
My Review: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
“How I Learned to Cook: Culinary Educations from the World’s Greatest Chefs,” by Kimberly Witherspoon is a book of stories from different chefs from around the world. I knew going in, “this is not a cookbook,” it still felt like a recipe shared from a few of them would have made this book more complete. I enjoyed each Chef’s stories and experiences for the most part. Personal stories were shared from how they learned to cook, their studies, to becoming top Chefs. A bit of a warning: A few stories were a bit eye opening and candid. I enjoyed the second half of the stories the most. For upcoming Chefs, I think they would enjoy this book more than the average reader.
Tell Us What Your Plans Are For May
Enjoy this month of May! Such a exciting time of year to fulfill activities outdoors such as hiking and camping, attending cultural events and festivals, to pursuing personal goals and hobbies, the possibilities are endless. It’s a month of celebrations, Mother’s Day and reflections, Memorial Day.
We will be spending a lot of time at the ballpark now that we have two players! Yay! 💕⚾💕
Since I’ve started the Goodreads reading challenge in January 2023, many have asked me how I find the time to read.
I plan to read fifty books in 2023. I’ve always read a lot, but, I haven’t always kept track of those titles. I wish I had now.
Being a children’s author and illustrator, children’s books are always welcomed on my to-read list. I did find out, books under 100 pages are not applicable under the reading challenge. Once you read a book and review it, it automatically goes into your reading challenge shelf. I have since taken those books out, but they still remain on my shelves of my, “read” list and I have reviewed them.
Here are four tips I found helpful for getting those titles read.
My Favorite Reading Time
One of my favorite times to read is in the morning with my first cup of coffee.
My mind is fresh. If I’m reading a nonfiction book, I’m more apt to learn about what I’m reading. As you’ll see, I have some nonfiction books and more, on my list from Goodreads at the bottom of this post.
Find your favorite time to read and enjoy.
Appointments
If I know I have an appointment, I always take a book along. Kindle and audio books are great options for this, as well.
Keep Books Close By
I keep a stack of my books handy to grab at any given time.
One can even get a few pages read waiting for dinner to be cooked.
If I know we are going somewhere, instead of getting involved in a big task, I take that time to get in a few more pages to read.
Don’t Forget to Read Cookbooks
I love cookbooks, but the one’s I love the most are ones filled with stories and how recipes came about. You can learn a lot of history through stories shared in cookbooks.
Before I get to those books I’ve read, I need to tell you about this…
What’s New at Books by Rose
My 13th book is live and we are having a wonderful book launch for 13 days. It’s so much fun! I appreciate all the wonderful people stopping by with their amazing comments. We have close to 175 names so far entered for prizes and we will have 13 winners. Don’t forget to stop by my “Books by Rose” Facebook page to check it out. Launch ends on the 12th of April and winners picked on the 13th of April!
Welcome, Big E’s Trick to Fishing
If you are unable to visit my book launch, you can take a look at Big E’s Picture Book here.
Drawing on The Dominant Eye: Decoding the Way We Perceive, Create, and Learn, by Betty Edwards.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Drawing on The Dominant Eye: Decoding the Way We Perceive, Create, and Learn,” by Betty Edwards was very interesting. If you studied art and science in high school or college, much of the information in this book will come back to you. Once learning the fundamentals on how our brains work, one can apply the drawing lessons towards the end of the book.”
Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain: The Definitive Edition by Betty Edwards.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (I found this one so fascinating, too!)
“Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain: The Definitive Edition” by, Betty Edwards was an interesting book in which I learned a lot. This edition was written in 2012 and had been updated many times. Watch for the updated version.
Edwards explains, drawing is much like learning the ABC’s and learning to read. The more you practice, the better you will get. This goes for most tasks, though. If you are aware of the left/right brain theories, different parts of our brains are what helps us do the things we do in everyday life.
She suggests to forget the noisy chatter in your mind and draw what you see. Pay attention to negative space, positive forms, angles, proportions and so much more. Once the techniques in his book are applied with the important information given, most will find themselves a much better artist.”
Billy Miller Makes a Wish by, Kevin Henkes
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Readers 6-8 years old will enjoy the real life events of Billy Miller written by Kevin Henkes. “Billy Makes a Wish” is a story that will engage young readers. A perfect read aloud for further discussions on various topics.” ***(A bit of a spoiler alert. Since death may be a sensitive subject for young readers, caretakers may want to read this book first.)***
The Best is Yet to Come by Debbie Macomber
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I’ve read quite a few of author Debbie Macomber books and her 2022 release, “The Best Is Yet to Come,” did not disappoint. Although this is an adult romance book, I think it’s safe to add it as an YA book, as well. The twists and turns were interesting and the outcome of the plot towards the high school issue was a surprise. Readers will also enjoy this clean romance as Cade and Hope move through their relationship throughout the story.”
Starfish by Lisa Fipps
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Starfish,” By Lisa Fipps is an easy to read free-verse novel.
“It may be a painful subject for some, but the level of content is one that should be considered for discussion among readers. I was so saddened by the mother’s take on her daughter’s weight. Thank goodness she had her father, a few friends and, of course her, therapist on her side. Bullying is the strong subject here and should not be taken lightly.”
101 Lasagnas & Other Layered Casseroles by, Julia Rutland
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“If you like the concept of layered meals like Lasagna, you will enjoy this book by, Julia Rutland. “101 Lasagnas & Other Layered Casseroles,” is filled with a variety of options. I especially liked the non-tomato based recipes. The quick and easy instructions will please even the first time cook.”
The Pioneer Woman Cooks: Come and Get It! Simple, Scrumptious Recipes for Crazy Busy Lives by, Ree Drummond
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I enjoyed Ree Drumond’s easy to follow cookbook, “The Pioneer Woman Cooks: Come and Get It! Simple, Scrumptious Recipes for Crazy Busy Lives.” There are step by step photos with instructions to go along with each recipe. She has great stories about living on a ranch with her family and animals. I loved the photographs, as well. A perfect cookbook to refer to time and time again.”
What’s To Come…
I’m halfway through illustrating another Picture Book. I hope to get back to it in May. You all will enjoy this helpful, funny story for young readers. Okay, I’d better go before I say anymore. Excited for this next one, too! 😃😊
That’s all for this month. I hope you all have a wonderful April.
Let us know what has been keeping you busy. Any new projects? We’d love to hear from you.
Gary Putthoff is a songwriter and musician. He has been entertaining audiences for many years. In this exclusive interview, Gary talks about his life in music and tells us how he became a songwriter. Hang with us as he reveals his newest song.
Rosie: Welcome back Gary! It’s been awhile since our last interview. You’ve branched out a lot these last few years.
Let’s first talk about how you became interested in music.
Tell us, did you go to school to learn more about your craft or did it come natural for you?
Gary: My father played the guitar on his lap with a metal slide, he called it Hawaiian guitar. It was always fun when he got out his guitar, this is where I got my desire to play. He only knew a few songs, one was the crawdad song. I re-did this song it is on my first published album “Chasin’ Dreams” and the slide riff at the end of the song is a tip of the hat to him.
I had formal training with guitar lessons I pursued in college.
My first remembrance was playing my neighbor’s guitar, I was 12 years old. A mutual friend of ours gave me an exact model that she had in her basement and I have kept it over 45 years now. My newest release “You Didn’t Say Goodby”uses this guitar to get that vintage sound that is sought after. I have often wondered if it is the same guitar.
I minored in music at Penn Valley and was in the jazz band there. I graduated from UMKC with a degree in Communications. I worked at KCUR 89.3 the college station for 3 years producing all the Saturday afternoon shows. Those shows included, “Many Phases of the Blues,” Cypress Avenue and more. I had created my own program there called Jazz Next Door which featured local artists. I also worked with Gaylord Marr. I worked at his home cataloging music for his library, now called the“Marr Archives” at UMKC. I also did some interviews for the Blues Society magazine. That one is with, Lindsay Shannon (KC Blues historian.) It’s now registered in the KC Historical Society articles.
Rosie: That is so cool! You have been on quite a musical journey.
What has been your longest running gig?
Gary: The longest running gig I ever had was at a place called the Chestnut Inn on 12th street. It was at the end of being a famous country bar in KC with a rich history. Played every weekend there for a year with George Kelly.
Rosie: You and I have both discussed how authoring and songwriting are very much the same.
How did you become such a great songwriter?
Gary: I always wrote songs for fun. I took an online course through songwriters magazine to get some basics, like how important the “hook” is.
I became more serious about recording. I took a course in advanced recording at UMKC Conservatory of music which helped a lot.
Rosie: I bet you learned so much.
What are you currently working on?
Gary: I continue to write and record these days with the Blue Ridge Band. Friends and I play occasional gigs and at jam sessions. As I mentioned, I have released another new song “You Didn’t Say Goodby.” It’s about someone leaving without saying goodbye. The image is a picture of my girlfriend, Terry at Indian Rocks Beach.
Now For Gary’s Newest Song!
♪ Click on the photo below to listen. ♪
“You Didn’t Say Goodby”
Rosie: Great song and image!
Where can our readers find your songs and connect with you for more updates?
My authors friends are getting together to share with you our reflections of this past year and what’s to come. Check out their blogs at the bottom of this post.
Sense Of Hope
I don’t know about you, but I always have a feeling of hope during the holiday season and the start of a new year.
Even though the New Year can be a time of reflection, it can also teach us a lot of things. Many people take this time to set goals and resolutions, moving forward to new ideas.
Exciting Times For Me In 2022
Spending lots and lots of great times with our family and friends Since the past few years have kept some of us restricted to events, 2022 seemed to improve with all that and let’s hope it stays that way.
A few happy things happened, as well. My book, “Beasley Helps” was released in April 2022 and I celebrated 8 years at Books by Rose with a count of 12 books!
I treated myself to a dozen of roses made by my dear friend, Hilda Coronado at
My book launch for “Beasley Helps” ran for 12 days with 12 clues for readers to learn more about his story. Beasley’s book made a big impression on those that followed along during this time.
My Other Books
If you would like to look into my other books, click on the poster below.
I also have met the nicest people through something I started in October. You can read more about that here in my ► October’s post.
I ended my “Saturday Shout Out’s” at the end of the year and will pick it back up next fall. Please write me a note if you have pages you follow on Facebook you enjoy. I’ll add them to my list.
Looking Ahead To 2023
The New Year always gives me a sense of bravery, too. I feel like I can accomplish anything, if I set my mind to it. I’m excited to try new things. I hope to step out of my comfort zone and take a few risks.
One thing I’ve been looking into “Surface Designing” and trying to see how I can connect that with my books. I love art, so this may be the thing that keeps me learning in the art department, too. If you know anyone currently in this field, I’m still doing my research.
Here’s one design I’ve come up with so far.
It’s called, “Stella’s Kaleidoscope Garden”
I’ve already made a dress/pinafore out of the fabric for a gift. This fabric is not for sale yet, but I’m going to work on that part this next year. When, and if, more of my designs are ready, you will be the first to know.
Books Coming for 2023
Most of you know I have a children’s book ready to go this spring or summer. I will be reaching out to my Beta Readers soon. If you are interested in reading it, leave me a note in the comment section below.
The 2nd book has all the words written but still needs to be illustrated. I showed just the words to someone recently and they said it was VERY good! I loved that they liked it that much. The illustrations will be fun and I can hardly wait to start it.
Tell Us About You
What has this past year taught you, if anything?
What’s in store for you in 2023?
Tell us about your projects and what’s to come in 2023.
We can’t wait to hear from you.
Author Friends And Their Posts
Don’t forget to follow my author friends and their year and goals for the New Year at the bottom of this post.
Happy December, everyone! Can you believe we are already closing out another year? I sure can’t
Here’s a recap at what’s been happening at Books by Rose the last month or so.
“Name That Book Contest”
I ran my contest for 4 weeks, so we had 4 winners. They will get their choice of a copy of any one of my books here on my Amazon page ► Amazon Page
Thank you to all who participated!
And the Winners Are…
And The Answers Are:
Clues for Week 1
*Dog searches for his home – “Beasley’s Journey”
*Dog and friends help each other out – “Beasley and Friends to the Rescue”
*Dog solves an issue – “Beasley Helps”
Clues for Week 2
*Girls visit the “Land of Something to Do” – “Maggie, Millie and Merrie’s Magical Adventure.”
*Girls shop for “Something Magical” – “Maggie, Millie and Merrie’s Magical Coins.”
*Girls receive a “Magical Delivery” – “Maggie, Millie and Merrie’s Mystery Mail.”
Clues for Week 3
*A Trolley’s life – “Sherman the Shopping Cart A Search and Find”
*A boy and his dog – “A Search and Find of Every Kind with Jake and his Dog named Cain”
*A girl who loves nature – “Stella and the Four Seasons”
Clues for Week 4:
A Girl Writes in a Journal to her Cat – “Just Between Sam and Me”
A Girl Who Loves the Glowing Shine – “Moonshadow Mae”
Two Boys and Their Adventures – “Avi and Jackson Best Friends”
I hope everyone had fun with my contest. I did learn a few things over the past four weeks about this contest. I think everyone was afraid they would give the answers away. Next time I run something like this, I’ll have them inbox me. Another thing I will try, is to break up the titles clues over time. I hope this helps anyone reading this for their future contests. I don’t know about you, but I’m always learning new ways, aren’t you?
“Saturday Business Support”
In the month of December, watch for this poster on my “Books by Rose” Facebook page. You will enjoy meeting and hearing about 5 new businesses each Saturday until the end of December. We have some fun ones coming up so I hope you’ll tune in each Saturday.
December Celebration Recipes
If you have been following my blog for sometime now, you will remember these favorite recipes that are always made at our home.
Our Favorite Christmas Eve Dinner
Velveeta Chicken
Here’s the basic recipe, but I always double it for our crowd. Plus, they love the leftovers.
1 large chicken, cooked, deboned and cut into bite size pieces.
1 box of chicken flavored stuffing, prepared according to directions
1 can of cream of chicken soup
1/2 can of milk
1/4 block of Velveeta Cheese, sliced thin
Instructions:
Place the cut up chicken in an 9 x 12, sprayed pan
In a sauce pan, add soup, milk, and sliced cheese. Stir over low heat until blended and cheese is melted. Add a splash of milk if it seems too thick. (You will want a mixture that resembles pancake batter consistency.)
Meanwhile, prepare the box of stuffing according to the directions.
Spoon the cheesy soup mixture over the chicken.
Add stuffing to the top in an even layer.
Bake uncovered at 350 degrees for 30 minutes, or until bubbly hot.
Mounds Coconut Bars
These mounds bars are so yummy and rich everyone will enjoy!
You’ll need:
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup melted butter
1 cup flaked coconut
1 cup semi sweet chocolate chips
1 can of sweetened condensed milk (Use fat free, you will not notice the difference.)
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar and melted butter or margarine. Mix and pat into the bottom of one 9×13 inch baking pan. Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 15 minutes.
Add the chocolate chips, then the flaked coconut to the crust.
Drizzle the sweetened condensed milk over the top.
Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 15 minutes, or until slightly brown on top.
While still hot, run a knife a around the edge. This will help you later when slicing them up.
Cool before cutting into small 1 inch squares.
That’s All For Now
What are your December plans? We’d love to hear from you.
Wishing you all a wonderful, safe and happy holiday season.
I’ve been featuring it on my Books by Rose Facebook page and it has taken off and has been very successful in meeting new business owners and creatives.
I will continue doing this until the end of December 2022 (That is, if I have enough people. If you know a business you’d like me to add, drop me a note.)
Just watch for this poster in November on Saturdays.
November Contest
Starting November 02, 2022, I posted the news about a contest I will be running for 4 weeks on my Books by Rose Facebook page.
It’s very simple. Just go to my pinned post and read all the rules on this post. This link is included for you to search for this week’s, ► three book titles.
One big question I’m asked is, “where do I post my answers?” Just add them to the comment section. It doesn’t matter if others have answered the same. “Participation” is what I’m counting.
Let me know if you have any questions.
News On My Next Book
My next book, which is a Early Reader is done! Yay! 🎉
If you would like to be a Beta Reader for this book, please let me know.
After the holidays, I’ll be talking more about what’s to come. Since the content of the story is for spring and summer, I thought it would be best to publish until then. You’ll understand more after you read it. Leave me a note if you are interested. Thank you always! ❤️
Turkey Decoration
Do you remember seeing an image like this at the beginning of this post?
I made this for our grandson back in 2018.
It’s a turkey holder with feathers. Once all the feathers are made, write something you are thankful for on the back and insert on that day. Once complete, you will have this cute turkey to hang as a decoration.
Another idea, use the feathers for bookmarks and/or give them away for gifts. Need more feathers for the next year? No problem, just make some more.
It’s really a simple project and you can get as creative as you want.
Use paper plates or heavy cardstock for holder and feathers. Basically, all the shapes are circles and circles cut in half and glued together. You can staple the pocket down for extra strength.
Directions:
Make turkey, by making a circle for the face and body. Cut half circles for the wings and glue together. Glue the turkey to a paper plate or circle. Decorate.
Make feathers, cutting as shown and decorate.
Create a pocket on the back. (Cut a circle in half. and attach.)
Add a long strip of paper or ribbon to hang on a nail or doorknob.
Write what you are thankful to the back of the feathers and add each day. (Don’t forget to add your name and date. These are fun to look at years later.)
Share feathers for bookmarks for gifts. Make more for the following year, if needed.
Don’t forget to add a little glitter to your glue. Brush over entire turkey and feathers for extra bling. It also will keep your decoration sturdy for years to come.
Let me know if you have any questions. Enjoy! 🦃
Wishing you all a wonderful November and a very Happy Thanksgiving!
Leave us a note to tell us what’s going on in your November! We’d love to hear from you.
October already? It’s like I’m “falling” into this month trying to put my brakes on, ha! It feels like just yesterday I was telling you about my projects in September. In case you missed it, you can check it out here. ► Updates, News and More at Books by Rose September 2022
This month has already been a busy one, too. Read on to find out more…
Support Business SaturdayShout Outs
If you follow my “Books by Rose” Facebook page, you’ve seen I’ve started something new. I didn’t know it was going to get so big by just sharing one post, but it took off.
What I’m doing is a “Support Business Saturday Day” shout out to business pages to friends and people I’ve connected with over the years. I can’t tell you how fun this has been and it’s been wonderful meeting other business owners, as well. I’ve decided I will now do this until December 24, 2022, the last Saturday in December.
If you have a business page and would like to be added, please write me a note or give me a shout out on Facebook. On Saturdays, you will see this image, or something like it with these words. I’ll change the image in November and will make a new one for December.
I tag 5 business pages each Saturday. (This is the October image I’m using now.)
Jazzy News by Sonja McGiboney
When I read my email this morning, I saw a really cool project my author friend is doing and I just had to share with you all.
Author Sonja McGiboney, with “Jazzy’s Books,” is letting young writers become a part of Jazzy’s Journal.
If your young writers would like to be a part of this journal, please click on the following link. ► “Jazzy’s Journal”
Celebrating a Special Day
My husband and I are going to celebrate our 44th wedding anniversary at the end of this month. Since we dated 6 years to the day we were married, that makes us come up to 50 years together!! I wouldn’t change a thing these past years. We have been blessed with two wonderful sons and two grandchildren.
W.I.P.
My next “work in progress” is coming along and close to getting finished. I can’t tell you too much yet, but it’s an Early Reader. I can tell you these two things so far…
I’m waiting for the person this book is dedicated to, to get back to me with a few jokes, which will be on page 13. (The jokes will be only on this one page.)
This book will be more suited for spring and summer, so you probably won’t hear me talking about it until after the holidays.
Halloween
I have to be honest, Halloween is not a big day at our house like it was when our sons were growing up. Yes, we still put candy out for the kids who trick-or-treat and decorate a little bit. (I’ve always wanted to call it, “Happy Pumpkin Day.)
The past two years, we have set out individually wrapped candies in a bowl by our Little Free Library. I try and find fall and Halloween themed books to add to our bowl, too. We’ve been very lucky how respectful our families have been with this new concept. (Thank you neighbors!)
Hey, everyone! I hope your summer is going great so far!
If you have been following my blogs, you know I try and post the first of every month. July was one I missed this year. You’ll see why as you read on.
I’ve been busy with various of activities.
The one that has taken most of my time is watching some super special…
Baseball Games
We even traveled to Omaha, NE for a few days to take in a weekend of fun. The good news, they won!! What’s funny is, we went all that way and they won against a team in our hometown. What an amazing group of players on both sides. We met some very nice people from all areas of the Midwest.
It seemed after that, time was spent catching up before Fall Ball starts.
You may also noticed on my social media pages, I’ve been posting lots of baseball quotes and stories. Summertime brings baseball feelings to our family and it always has.
I can remember our grandfather sitting by every radio he could find, listening to the latest game. I sure wish he were here now so we could visit about baseball.
You may remember, I added our grandfather to one of my books. “Maggie, Millie and Merrie’s Magical Coins.” He is the one on the right. The one on the left is my husband’s grandfather.
Honoring This Great Sport
What I’d like to do to honor this great sport, is a special giveaway to a sports team or a player in need of sports equipment in our area. To do that, I’m going to save all the royalties sold from this special baseball book I wrote. It’s actually my first one. It’s based on our sons growing up and the fun things they enjoyed. In the story they are best friends. I’m proud to say our sons are best friends to this day.
From now until the end of August 2022, I will be collecting 100% of the royalties from this book. If you are interested in this story, here are the links. Just click on the one of your choice.
I promise to keep you posted on how this all goes. Keep watching.
Books by Rose, among other great businesses, are proud sponsors this year to a growing baseball team this summer.
Other Busy News
I have two projects in the works. One Early Reader has been written and the pictures I’m going to use for references for the illustrations just came in. I’m excited to get started on it soon.
The other project is HUGE and has taken me a long time to make. I have most of it done, but have many more days and months ahead to finish it. Each month I’ll post a sneak peek of it in a blog. Once it’s completed, you will see it all. This is actually a fun activity I’m making for someone. If it all goes well, I hope to have something for readers to enjoy with this project, too.
Drawing Challenge
Every so often, I stop what I’m doing and practice some art. A Facebook group I joined, gives us prompts for us to come up with an image. I picked this one because the word was “rain.” This was fun and it cooled off my thoughts on our very hot days here in the Midwest we’ve had this summer.
Last, But Not Least
The other day, I was sitting here looking up to see if any of the books I put on hold at our local library came in. I have been an avid reader this summer and reading as many books as I can squeeze in.
I typed in one of my books, “Moonshadow Mae.” I do this every so often, just in case. Lo and behold, it was there! I looked into it more, and three libraries in our area are now carrying copies of it. I can’t tell you how excited this has been. We have been hoping for this since 2018.
If you would like to have your library carry this book, just give your local branch this information. Thank you and I hope it lands on your book shelves for you to enjoy, too.
“Moonshadow Mae” (Children’s Fiction)
ISBN:978-1-7323848-0-4
Library of Congress Control Number: 2018907295
How’s Your Summer Going?
What have you been up to this summer? Please leave us a comment in the section below. We’d love to hear from you.
As promised, we are going to take a look at the behind the scenes of my recent book launch for my new children’s book, “Beasley Helps.” Without telling you too much, I don’t want to give the whole story away. I will however, try to explain a few fun facts for you and why I decided to use the images I made for this book.
When and Where Did This Book Launch Take Place?
In case any of you missed it, my book launch was held on my business Facebook page at, “Books by Rose.”
It ran for 12 days, from April 06, 2022 to April 21, 2022. We started daily, at 9 am (CST) with images and clues to my story. I’m always confused on what dates to pick. With me being so symbolic about my books, I looked at the numbers. “Twenty-one” is a backwards “12.” The 21st of April was also our dad’s birthday. I think he would have liked that. It seemed to turn out perfect.
Day 1
“Where Did All The Trees Go?”
We had lots of answers and guesses on this one. We had many that were even worried about those trees. I felt for them, as we had to have many trees removed here at our home this past year. They were at least 75 years old and were decayed so much, they were becoming dangerous for us to have them around.
I will tell you one good thing. The trees in this story were removed to build something new for a very good cause.
Day 2
“What’s All That Noise?”
One visitor thought it was the trees that fell that made all the noise.
Nope, but some very big machines were working very hard to clear a large portion of land on, Farmer Bill’s farm.
Day 3
“Whoa Whoa, Little Fella”
Someone had suggested a trespasser was trying to get by, they even suggested a horse. This little fella was much smaller than a horse, but carried a loud bark!
Day 4
“Brother Read a Book to Little Fella One Day And He Let Out A Big A-ROO!
Okay, by now you know it’s safe to say, there’s a dog in the story, right?
Why was he scared?
How I came up with this idea. When I was around 3 or 4 years old, my brothers had a book all about animals. I loved looking through that book, well, until I came to one page. I’ll never forget, it was photo of a Moose and that big Moose scared me so much, I had to close the book. I thought back on that memory and wanted to include it my story.
With this being a farm book, I wanted to pick a bull. We live in the suburbs, so finding a bull around here is next to impossible. Our friend came to the rescue! This photo took our friend a very, very long time to get that shot. Every night she’d ride past the pasture, of course the bull was on the other side. No way was she going to climb in there to risk her life. Finally one day, it all worked out and she got her photo. Thanks again for this photo, Susie!
Day 5
“What In The World is Going On Here?”
“What In The World is Going On Here?”
This one is my favorite images in this book. Once you see the whole photo, you will understand more why I love this one so much.
First of all, Farmer Bill is my older brother. He’s the one in a frenzy about something. Ha, Ha! (Thank you, Bill for posing for this book. You did great!)
My wonderful husband, Farmer Bob, is pulling a rope with something very strong and big attached to it. He actually posed for me out on our deck and we laughed and laughed. (Thank you, Bob!)
The men you see behind him are my two older brothers. Farmer John and Farmer Jim. It means a lot to me to have them in this book. John passed away almost 11 years ago and Jim passed away last October.
Oh and the pig? He belongs to our friend, Angela. She lives in the suburbs, too, so having a pig this size in her neighborhood, is somewhat special.
Day 6
“Someone Has A Bright Idea!”
This part of the story is what authors call a “solution” to the problem in the story. We know there’s a problem with Farmer Bob struggling with something. The pup in the story remembered something he thought would work. I’ll get to that in a moment and revealed one thing that worked.
Day 7
“Someone Came Up With An Idea Using Recycled Products.”
In our story, our pup friend made many, many trips back and forth to gather all these things. When he returned these items to Farmer Bill’s barn, I can only imagine how tired he was.
This was a fun day in my book launch as we all talked about what to make with recycled products.
Day 8
“It Will Take You A Million Years To Guess This One”
Ha, this one stumped everyone and we had many laughs.
This is part of the story, I’ll have to reveal what this is, because it was very confusing.
This image has something to do with drums. Let’s just say, if you and your kids enjoy music, this last part of the book will be something you will enjoy reading, making and talking about.
Quick story and what I learned about this image. When I was in my first year of college studying Early Childhood Education, I attended a band with a female drummer. I had never seen anything like her talent and energy before. Well, that was it, I wanted to be a drummer. Here’s where the problem came in, I didn’t have drums or even drumsticks. A friend of ours did play the drums and he suggested for me to get different sizes and widths of wood and something with a “ding” sound to practice until I was able to get a drum set. Well, long story short, I never learned to play, but to this day, I can pick out the drums in a song and love that sound so much. By the way, I’m glad I stayed with the Early Childhood Education, because it has served me well over the years.
Pay 9
“Meet New Friends, Cocoa and Fred”
These animals show up in the story for a very special reason. Liked we talked about, Fred the pig is our friend’s and Cocoa belonged to our friend’s, as well. Sadly, Cocoa the horse passed away many years ago. Thanks to our friends, Perry and Angela, for allowing me to use their pets for this story.
Day 10
“Will You Be Able To Find All 12 Of These?”
I’m giving the reader of this book a bonus activity to find 12 of these bones. As you will see, I wrote this on the back page. I did it this way for a few reasons. I didn’t want it to be a “search and find” book, however, I do have three books of those, if you’re interested in them. Another reason, I didn’t want to distract the reader from this story.
Day 11
“Title Reveal”
Yay! Finally, the title reveal and what my new book is what about!
If you have been following, Books by Rose, you know “Beasley’s Journey” was the 1st book I wrote back in, 2014, followed by, “Beasley and Friends to the Rescue in 2016.
This 3rd book of Beasley has set on the back burner for a few years and I’m so glad to have it finished. The love of it grew bigger and bigger over time with new ideas coming to me every time I sat down to finish it.
I have to admit, I struggled with what type of illustrations I was going to use for this book. My friend Paula had given me all of her Beagle photos. Since the 2nd book, those Beagles, Lexy and Penny, had passed away. Thank you for all your photos, Paula.
One day I’m on Facebook and another friend of ours had a Beagle that looked just like them. That’s where the dog you see named, Spike came in. Thank you, Jim and Debi for Spike’s adorable photos.
Day 12
“Cover Reveal”
The day I had been waiting for, my cover reveal!
I couldn’t have made this book without all my family and friends support. As you will see in the book, this story is about pet rescue shelters. I’m going to be saving up a portion of the royalties to support our local shelters. I hope you will be able to help those shelters in your community, if you wish to do so.
If you would like a paperback or Kindle copy of this new release,
There’s a big reason why I had my book launch for 12 days. “Beasley Helps” was my 12th book. I also celebrated 8 years of my business, “Books by Rose,” on April 27, 2022.
I have a very special video of something to share with you soon. I can’t wait to show it to you!
Tell us some exciting news you may have coming up in the comment session below. Do you have a new book you’d like to share? How about your plans for spring or summer? We love to hear from you.
Join me and my author friends as we share some fun posts for this month. Check theirs out at the end.
Today, I’m going to share three of my favorite things for Valentine’s Day. One of my favorite holidays.
*Crafts
*Sweets
*Books
First Up, This Fun Card To Make
Growing up, our mom was always making crafts and Valentine’s Day was one of her favorites. Mine, too! If you follow me, you know I’m all about the hearts, year round. 💝
I also love trees! So, why not combine the two? You can add special sayings like:
“My Love Keeps Growing and Growing For You”
“Spread Your Love Like Leaves On A Tree”
Or, just write a personal message with your name on it.
Use any kind of paper or cardstock. Use, crayons, colored pencils, paints or your favorite art mediums. Follow these directions to make your special card.
Next Up…
The Best Peanut Butter and Chocolate Fudge Ever!
You’ll need…
3 cups chocolate chips. Use any chocolates you like. I prefer the milk chocolate.
1 can fat free sweetened condensed milk. (You can’t tell the difference since this fudge is loaded with sweetness.)
24 regular size unwrapped peanut butter cups
Instructions
Line 9×13 baking dish with foil and spray with nonstick cooking spray lightly. Line with 12 peanut butter cups If you need to fill the bottom of your pan, add more.
Use a large microwave-safe bowl, add chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir together. Microwave 30 second. Stir. Keep melting until completely smooth. Pour over peanut butter cups to cover them all.
Cut up the remaining Reese’s and press into the top. Let it set to cool to room temperature {30 minutes to 1 hour} before refrigerating. Cover and refrigerate until completely solid. Overnight works great. Once it’s solid, remove from the pan using the foil and cut into small 1 inch by 1 inch squares.
These are very rich and soooo good!
Last, But, Not Least…..
Books!
Click on the poster below to read about these eleven titles. If you have any questions about them for your readers, let me know.
Don’t forget to click on the author names below for more February fun! Don’t forget to check out their books, too.
In this blog post, you’ll find come special quotes to consider as you leap into the new year. I’ll share some of my favorites first, then at the bottom of this post, you’ll find some other inspirational blog posts from our author friends who will share theirs, too.
Enjoy!
My Favorite Quotes From One Of My Favorite People…Zig Ziglar!
Before I start, let me tell you about Zig Ziglar.
Zig Ziglar was born on November 06, 1926, and sadly passed away, November 28, 2012. He was a salesman, a motivational speaker, and later became a wonderful author, sharing his wisdom to people around the world.
I first heard of Zig Ziglar when I was a high school graduate. Our mother had been a fan of him for many years. When my boyfriend, now husband, started in sales, she highly recommended he read his books and follow his advice.
Mr. Ziglar had some of the best quotes of anyone I’ve known. I’ll share some here with you today and give you my personal thoughts on each one. I hope you’ll take the time to look him up and watch some of his videos.
Please let me know if you would like to add your thoughts to the meaning of these quotes in the comment section below.
“You can have everything in life you want, if you will just help other people get what they want.” ~Zig Ziglar
This is the first quote of his I learned and it has stayed with me my whole life.
Helping other people get what they want is key here.
Say, you’re selling a product or providing a service. Of course, you want that customer to buy that product or sign up for that service. If truly in your heart you know they will benefit from this product or service, then you are helping that person get what they want or need. Even if they don’t buy, the excitement and passion you showed them, may want them to reconsider down the road. If not, it’s still a win. You helped them and that’s a wonderful feeling in itself. Doing good deeds shows great character, in personal relationships and in business.
Thought two on this.
The best way to bring yourself out of a bad mood or attitude, “stinkin thinking,” as Zig would say, do something for someone else. Helping others always makes us feel better, right?
“Repetition is the mother of learning, the father of action, which makes it the architect of accomplishment.” ~Zig Ziglar
Ooh, I love this one! I know in my heart of hearts that if I want to become better at writing or drawing, I’m going to have to practice it, and practice it a lot. Showing up each day with with consistent goals in mind and doing them, is a must to me. Repeating the hard work through putting those actions into motion will eventually take me to the accomplishment of my goal.
“You can start where you are with what you’ve got and go to wherever it is you want to go.” ~Zig Ziglar
Another one that hits home to me.
When I was a substitute teacher, my days were filled with walking into a blank slate of the unknown. I wouldn’t know which students excelled or didn’t. I would literally have to meet those students where they were at and help them the best I could. Comparing them to each other and what they knew, was something I would not do. I would meet them where they were at and we’d go from there. They in turn, would have to meet me where I was at, as well. I wish I could share all the wonderful stories of success I saw with those students. They liked that I saw them for who they were, not the expectations of what I thought they were suppose to be.
Another personal note, I was older when I became an author and illustrator. I had to start a road of learning with little background in this field. I had to start where I was at. Small steps were eventually built to bigger and bigger steps. Even after almost eight years, I’m still learning and growing everyday.
“If you can dream it, you can achieve it.” ~Zig Ziglar
I do believe we all have dreams we want to achieve in this life. Some want promotions, some want items, some just want to get through the day having a happy, healthy life with our family and friends.
One thing I would like to add about dreams though, they don’t come true without some effort on our part. If you want that special dream home, a certain career, etc. it all takes planning, steps to make it happen and dedication to make it to the finish line. Sure, there are obstacles, but getting back to those plans at a later date is always a wonderful possibility, too.
Now join me as I introduce to you some amazing authors that have written on this subject to get you inspired for the new year. Click on their names below.
Let’s take a look and learn more about this day and why it’s celebrated.
Art is an expression that is portrayed in many ways through many forms. Read more about this day here. ► “International Artist Day.”
Today, I’d like to take this time to share two artists and their works with you. You may remember me featuring them awhile back.
First, we are honoring a Kansas City artist, Marilyn C. McWilliams.
She is the mother of our friend whom our family grew up with, Paul McWilliams.
Sadly, his mother passed away in 2017. We wanted to show you her talented life as an artist.
Her Amazing Story
Marilyn’s Love For Art Started At A Very Young Age.
Once she was ready to venture out on her own, she attended the Kansas City Art Institute here in Kansas City. When landing her first job, she started working at Hallmark Cards as an artist.
After Hallmark, Marilyn worked the rest of her professional life as a freelance artist for a variety of women’s clothing stores in Kansas City. She illustrated the entire catalog for local women’s wear manufacturer, Fashionbilt, for many years. Fashionbilt – a significant women’s wear manufacturer that was located in the KC garment district on 8th Street. For those that are not familiar with the history behind the Kansas City garment industry. Here is an interesting article written by ► MONROE DODD on September 11, 2015.
She became involved with the fashion art for the high-end women’s stores on the Plaza, as well.
Art Classes
She frequently took classes in a variety of mediums including sculpting, oil, and acrylics. She and her grandson were kindred spirits who could communicate more without passing a word than could with conversation. Their styles were very different, but they saw things similarly. Artists tend to see emotion in what they draw and paint, and the good ones communicate that emotion in ways that allow us to feel it too. Stay tune for part two in this post, as her grandson’s art will be featured in a different post.
In addition to being known as one of the top fashion illustrators in KC, Marilyn loved to paint portraits and had an uncanny ability to reveal the personality of her subjects.
Volunteer Work
Marilyn left the Kansas City area for Texas in 1975 and passing through Houston and Austin, settled with her husband in Tyler, TX. Marilyn loved people logged over 10,000 hours as a volunteer with The USO, American Red Cross, St. David’s Hospital, ETMC, TASCA, Meals on Wheels, Hospice of East Texas, The Great Get Away Cancer Camp, The Tyler Art League and the University Christian Church where she was also a member for nearly three decades. As a member of the Tyler Art League, Marilyn participated in the annual Pallet of the Roses where she won 8 Blue Ribbons.
This is the photograph used to paint “The Rugged Face of Crete.” The photographer, John Fabac, who won an award for this photo.
Here is a public article written by “Explore Crete” The travel guide to real Crete. to tell you more of the pillage of Anogia and the story behind the destruction of Anogia. Read story ► here.
What Marilyn Loved Most
Marilyn loved doing charcoal sketches of patients attending Cancer Camp and even when arthritis made it uncomfortable, she persisted for nearly 20-years.
She had a gentle way of relaxing the patients and would sketch them as they looked before the side effects took their toll.
The vast majority of those sketches were taken by the patients or given to the surviving families of patients that didn’t make it, but a few are included in the photographs here.
Most of these sketches are of patients attending “The Great Get Away Cancer Camp” in Tyler, TX. Marilyn attended this weekend camp every year for nearly 20 years. She often sketched into the night even though her arthritis would stiffen her hand. When she ran out of time, she would take photographs, do the sketches at home and deliver them.
Remembering Marilyn C. McWilliams
Here is a beautiful article written about her by Augusta Robinson, Sept. 8, 2017.
Jason McWilliams was born in 1976. Unfortunately, he passed away half way through his college sophomore year, in 1996.
Jason lived a life of many talents. Outside of being very artistic, he played and lettered in the marching band all four of his high school years at Blue Valley North.
He could play virtually any musical instrument. He learned to play them after practicing on them just a short time. In band, he played all the different saxophones.
How Jason Communicated With His Art
As an artist, he communicated emotions through his art. For example, many artists will paint a face using flesh tones, lighting, and reflections which actually sends many other colors to our eyes that our brain tune out. That’s where artists tune in. When Jason colored as a child, it was evident he tuned into these colors that brought life and emotions to his images. When he expressed concerned about this, his dad told him, “Bluebirds don’t have to be blue.” This resonated with Jason and he stayed true to that statement.
His Former Years
When Jason was in grade school, around eight or nine years old, his parents enrolled him in evening art classes. These classes were taught by professional artists to mostly middle aged students. Jason felt a little intimidated around the older students and they were curious about him being there. Once they saw his talent, he was quickly accepted as their peers.
Jason And His Grandmother
Jason and his grandmother had kindred spirits and communicated on the same level. Even though his grandmother had come from a line of artists and was a professional in her own right, she was taken in by Jason’s talent. She and Jason had radically different styles. His grandmother stayed more towards the traditional bounds of art, whereas Jason was not afraid to go outside the boundaries. He enjoyed testing past them. They learned from each other and complimented each other in many ways.
Jason’s High School Years
When Jason was in high school he was introduced the person in charge of the art department. She had never met a student like Jason. She asked for him to be quizzed out of his basic classes and she developed a curriculum for just him.
One challenge many artists face is finding live figures to draw. Most artists are intimidated to paint people they know. His junior year in high school, his art teacher and parents worked together, enrolling him into a course at Johnson Country community College.
Jason participated in the regional Scholastic Art where he won two Hallmark Awards, one his junior year and one his senior year in high school. He also won many gold, silver, and “Best of Show” awards. He set records in district competitions that probably still stand. Jason was widely recruited by art schools around the U.S. He accepted a scholarship to Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design. (MIAD) This program is well known for the best Fundamentals Curriculum. This is the baseline for freshmen students.
He then applied for a scholarship to the Kansas City Art Institute (KCAI) for his sophomore year. It has a wide respect for providing the best painting curriculum.
From there, Jason planned to apply to colleges in Europe as he pursed the best programs around the world. Unfortunately, these plans were cut short midway through his sophomore year in college.
A Personal Note On Jason’s Life
Jason grew up with his younger ten year old sister. They had a unique and close relationship. While most teenage boys would view their sister as a tag-along, Jason love taking his sister Jamie places with him.
Jason also had many friends from all walks of life, He had a special way, not only making one feel welcomed, but special in their own right. His friends all commonly agreed, Jason had “an old soul” and was wise beyond his years. He was as gentle as a teddy bear.
I want to thank the McWilliams family for allowing me to feature these special artists on my page. Like I have told them many times, “How I wish I could have met, Marilyn and Jason McWilliams.”
If you would like to leave your thoughts, please click on the comment section below. We would love to hear from you.
Thanks for stopping by today and Happy International Artist Day!
I’ve just released my eleventh book! “Stella and the Four Seasons.” Woo hoo!
I hope you’ll enjoy celebrating this time with me and we’ll talk more about the “behind the scenes” of this book, too.
Oh, and don’t forget to check out my author friends posts about fall at the end of this post. You’ll enjoy reading what they have in store for this season.
The Contest I Had For My Title Reveal.
Thanks to all my fans for showing up on my Facebook page to guess the letters and words for my title reveal. Here it is!
Fans had a fun time guessing each day. I wasn’t sure how long it would take, so authors, if you decide to do this, take it one day at a time. One wonderful thing about this? Everyone will remember the title of your book. I love that part.
Now For The Cover….
“Stella and the Four Seasons” is an Early Reader written in the form of acrostic poems, (we will get to more on that in a moment) for ages Preschool through 1st grade. Younger children will enjoy the bright, colorful images on the pages, too.
This 9×6, 32 page book is perfect for young readers to enjoy the four seasons. Stella tells what she loves the most about each one. Here’s something else that she offers! A search and find! How fun is that?
Acrostic Poems
As I stated earlier, each page on the left hand side will show an acrostic poem. On the right page, readers will search for the items or phrases listed.
What is an acrostic poem? Here’s how I explained it to readers on the first few pages.
Here’s an example of the first two pages.
Why Was This Book Hard To Write?
This book has been something I’ve wanted to write for a long time. When I went to create these, acrostic poems, I had to find words that began with each letter. That was not always easy. We’ll, most words were easy for an adult, but not so much for a young reader to understand. So, this book turned into a learning book, as well.
Readers Will Learn About The Names Of New…
...and so much more!
In The Back Of The Book
If you and your family love to explore nature together, you will love the added activity in the back of the book.
Where To Find This Book?
Right now, it’s listed for paperback and kindle on Amazon. It will take awhile for expanding distribution channels to pick it up and I’m hoping for that to happen very soon. Keep watching.
The paperback book is at a reduced price for $8.99 for a limited time only. The Kindle is only $2.99. We hope you pick up a copy for your young readers.
If you read this book, please let me know what you think. We’d love to hear from you and your reviews means the world to us. ❤️
Thanks for stopping by today, and as always,
Happy Reading!
Rosie
Now, check out these awesome blog posts!
Julie Gorges – A Fall Self-Care Bucket List to Make the Most Out of Autumn
Cat Michaels – What’s Not to Love? – Six Things to Make You Fall for Fall
James Milson – Happy Autumn, Pumpkin Spice, and Everything Nice about Fall!
Today we have a special guest here at Books by Rose.
Meet Toby A. Williams. She’s the author of the Brooke Lynn Series.
Let’s get started so you can learn more about her wonderful stories.
Hi Toby, tell us about yourself.
I was born and raised in Nashua, New Hampshire, I currently reside in the San Diego area of Southern California with my best friend, who also happens to be my husband of many years. We enjoy travel, golf, helping in the community and of course, reading and writing. My appetite for writing was nurtured by my silly and vivid imagination as a child, along with my mother’s quirky fun storytelling. Most of my writings over the years have been for my personal enjoyment. My favorite place to write… at the dining room table, mostly on my laptop.
What inspired you to become an author?
It wasn’t until I wroteMy Lil’ Ladybug Friend that I truly felt re-energized to write again. It was created as a gift for my great-niece, Ava. With a bit (okay – a lot) of prodding by my dear friend, Sue Campion, in December 2018, it was published as my first rhyming picture book. The inspiration for The BROOKE LYNN Adventures series was based on Ava’s first experiences, i.e., seeing-touching-smelling the ocean, first day of school jitters, wanting a new pup and meeting scary Santa. All were new “Ava” adventures as told through the eyes of Brooke Lynn. The series highlights kindness, sharing, perseverance, being brave, responsible, and staying positive. With several book awards, along with local author spotlight recognition in the San Diego Central Public Library, I am grateful my books are helping early readers thrive.
Recently, you published a middle grade book called, “The Case of the HIDDEN SHOE,” (The BROOKE LYNN Mysteries Book 1.)
Tell us more about this book and what’s to come?
Oh, what a blind hurdle… jumping from rhyming picture books to middle-grade fiction. But when a few friends and fans asked if there would be additional stories about the main character, Brooke Lynn (we all wanted more), I made the leap. I envisioned this fun-loving child blossoming into a spunky, curious pre-teen. Drawing from the previous books, her pup, Samantha Sue (aka Sam) and best friend, Mike accompany her on the middle grade adventures.
About the Book: The Case of the HIDDEN SHOE (The BROOKE LYNN Mysteries – Book 1)
Middle-grader Brooke Lynn is curious – a new housing development is being built in her sleepy town. Rumors spread about the new homeowners and sightings of celebrities. When the crime-busting duo, Brooke Lynn and Mike, stumble upon a red-stained shoe hidden in one of the vacant homes, a new mystery unfolds. Is the stain blood and more importantly, why is it there? But it’s not just the new homes making Brooke Lynn curious. Her best pals, Mike and Susie seem different and her parents are getting strict! Will she be able to get to the bottom of not only the hidden shoe, but also the changes in her life? This cozy, exciting mystery full of pre-teen angst will have you guessing until the end.
Credits: Cover Design – Corrina Holyoake (@corrinaholyoake); Editor – Lor Bingham, Calico Editing Service (@laurabingham)
Available in eBook, paperback & hardcover onAmazon.
You used the amazing illustrator, Corrina Holyoake with all your books. Tell us more about how you two met and how you managed your partnership in this publishing journey?
What a delight to work with Corrina Holyoake these past few years! We were introduced by my mentor and dear friend, Sue Campion. After researching several other illustrators, Corrina’s conceptual ideas were in sync with my vision and an agreement was reached with the first book, My Lil’ Ladybug Friend. Once the 2nd rhyming story was written, we agreed to extend our relationship for the entire series. She was thrilled to jump back in with the new MG series. Her cover concept for The Case of the HIDDEN SHOE was spot-on!
What was the process in finding an editor for your story?
I worked with a new editor, Lor Bingham of Calico Editing Services (@laurabingham)
Without her help, knowledge, polish and inspiration, this book would not have been possible. She has an uncanny way of knowing exactly where and when to assist during the entire process. Her warm yet professional style is what truly got me through this project and I am grateful to have her on my writing team.
What is one message you would like to send out to your readers?
Each story I have created carries a positive and kind resolve after experiencing new or uncomfortable situations; and if the reader stays immersed in the storyline itching to turn the page, then I’m a happy writer. #childliteracy #sharingkindness #gratefulheart
Toby, your new book is so great! I placed an order and have loved every bit of your story.
Here is my 5 star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review:
“I was so excited when, “The Case of the HIDDEN SHOE (The BROOKE LYNN Mysteries Book 1)” by Toby A. Williams’s book arrived in our mail. Middle grade readers will enjoy this book. It has so many levels of great events to follow. Williams has painted a wonderful imagery with the characters and their feelings, along with the descriptive settings in this mystery tale. Brooke Lynn and her longtime friend, Mike, have been the detective duo in their neighborhood for years. Now, things are changing a bit as they grow older. When a new housing development is being built in their area, they are curious as they hear rumors of celebrities moving in. As they investigate, they find a red-stained shoe in one of the buildings, but that’s only half of it. How did it get there? Who does it belong to? Not only does Brooke Lynn have this mystery to worry about, she has to deal with Mike, who seems different nowadays, her best friend, Susie, who is changing, too. Her parents have become stricter by the day, not to mention how hard it is for her to concentrate on her school subjects. I highly recommend this book as readers will go on adventure, turning the pages to the end to see how this mystery is resolved.”
To find more about this book and Toby’s other books, visit the following places:
Enjoy learning these 4 random facts I found for the month of July.
4th of July
First of all, I hope all my USA friends and family had a fun and safe 4th of July.
Do you know what the #1 food that is consumed over the 4th of July?
Hot Dogs!
In fact, “According to the National Sausage and Hot Dog Council, (NHDSC) Americans are expected to eat 150 million hot dogs over the July 4th holiday.”
Wow, now that’s a lot of hot dogs!
July’s Birthstone
If you have a birthday in July, then you already know the birthstone for this month. Yes, it’s Ruby! It’s also called the “King of Gems.” I love these gems. They can be colored anywhere from deep blood red to paler rose red.
July’s Birth Flower
The birth flower for July is the delphinium, also known as Larkspurs. Some sites say July’s flowers are varieties of the Water Lilly.
We’re going to share these Larkspurs today.
These bright blue flowers will brighten up any summer flower garden.
Speaking of birthstones and birth flowers, here are just a few famous people that celebrate their birthdays in July.
July 1. Dan Aykroyd (Actor)
July 2. Larry David (Actor)
July 3. Tom Cruise (Actor)
July 4. Neil Simon (Singer)
July 5. Huey Lewis (Singer)
July 7. Ringo Starr (Singer and Drummer)
July 8. Kevin Bacon (Actor)
July 9. Tom Hanks (Actor)
July 10. Arlo Guthrie (Singer)
July 11. E. B. White (Author)
July 12. Cheryl Ladd (Actress)
July 13. Harrison Ford (Actor)
July 14. Gerald Ford (Former President)
July 15. Linda Ronstadt (Singer)
July 16. Barbara Stanwyck (Actress)
July 17. Donald Sutherland (Actor)
July 18. James Brolin (Actor)
July 19. Edgar Degas ( French Impressionist Artist)
July 20. Natalie Wood (Actress)
July 21. Ernest Hemingway (Journalist, Novelist, Writer)
July 22. Danny Glover (Actor)
July 23. Woody Harrelson (Actor)
July 24. Jennifer Lopez (Singer, Actress, Dancer)
July 25. Matt LeBlanc (Actor)
July 26. Sandra Bullock (Actress)
July 27. Norman Lear (Television Writer)
July 28. Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis (Former First Lady of the USA)
July 29. Martina McBride (Singer)
July 30. Arnold Schwarzenegger (Actor, Politician, Body Builder)
July31. J. K. Rowling (Author)
(Whew, that took a lot of research! I enjoyed it though. See why below on my update at the bottom of this post.)
The Dog Days of Summer
Do you know why this is a popular phase in the summertime? I looked for ways to explain this better but decided to share this article since it’s full of interesting information.
As this blog is being sent out, I’m also sending out my new book to a list of my wonderful Beta Readers. Once they take a look at it this month, I’ll have more news to share in August. I can tell you this for now. I had to do a lot of research on this book for young readers. It truly was one of my favorite parts.
Drawing the images to go along with all my facts and information was so much fun, too! Okay, I better stop now before I give too much away. Can you tell I’m excited to share it with you! Keep watching!
Thank you so much for stopping by today!
Do you have any fun facts about July that you can share? We’d love to hear from you!
I’m so excited to feature this author on my page this month.
Please Meet, Jennifer Milius
Jennifer wears many hats. She’s an author of children’s books and a co-author to a new released non-fiction book. Recently, she started a show called, “The TufFish Show.” Many of our authors friends have been featured on her show and we all had so much fun.
Here’s Jennifer
How did you get started as an author?
That’s a great question! Although I’ve enjoyed writing since I was a young child, I started writing children’s books based on our family’s real-life brother and sister tuxedo kitties, Einstein and Moo, during the summer of 2011. The first story I wrote was the third book I published, Einstein & Moo and the Quest for the Catnip. It went through several iterations while I also worked on the first two books of the series, Einstein and the Leaf and Moo and the Case of the Mistaken Identity. The series has six stories, and each one started out as a poem with minimal punctuation because that’s how I preferred to read them, unless there was dialogue or a specific inflection was needed, then appropriate punctuation was used.
As I was tweaking and polishing Einstein and the Leaf and Moo and the Case of the Mistaken Identity, books one and two of the series,I started to shift my thinking about how to turn them into published books and proceeded to figure how to make it happen.
I believe that we’re all works in progress, but your first, next or current book doesn’t have to be. And when you have support from someone who has “been there” and understands what you’re going through, it makes all the difference in the world. My goal is to help writers get from “maybe I’ll do it” to “it’s happening!”
Tell us about your TufFish Show.
The TufFish Show makes my heart so happy! It features authors from different genres and businesses, but with one thing in common – they had a message or story they wanted to tell and courageously got out of their own way and made it happen. It’s one facet under the TufFish umbrella, which also includes book coaching and developmental editing.
Each time you get “unstuck” by brainstorming a story plot for fiction or teasing out how to teach a concept for nonfiction, you feel excited for what’s possible and your writing flows even more. When you have a trusted advisor, sounding board and encourager as you write your book, you take the limits off yourself and create something even better than you thought possible because you were receptive to a reader with an editor’s eye and desire for you to be successful.
And if you want to know how TufFish got its name, check out the trailer to the podcast. Click on the image below to listen.
Tell us about your latest book and what can readers expect to learn?
You Know it’s a Verb, Right?is my first non-fiction and first co-authored book; it demonstrates how leadership must become a verb and positively develop individuals across the leadership spectrum who believe there’s more to leadership than meets the eye.
We wanted it to feel like you had two mentors right there with you who cared about you being successful, so you could serve and encourage others. We created You Know it’s a Verb, Right? to be a roadmap with real-life examples that uses everyday language to help you bridge the gap between your technical skills and the leadership skills required to successfully guide individuals, teams, and organizations. Whether you’re at the start of your leadership journey or already in a leadership position, You Know it’s a Verb, Right? affirms you can become a better leader.
What was it like working with a co-author?
I really enjoyed co-authoring You Know it’s a Verb, Right? with Wayne. He’s a wonderful person and dear friend, and it was an honor to work on this book with him. This book was years in the making between brainstorming, writing, re-writing, editing (more re-writing and editing), and finally getting it published. We spent a lot of time using video to talk through ideas, rework chapters, and engage with our team to bring the book to life. One thing I treasure from this experience is that as I contributed to our book, I learned so much from Wayne that I could feel my own leadership practice deepen.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
I love time with my family (including our kitties) and friends. I’m also a bit of a foodie, so I enjoy creating delicious food in the kitchen.
Thanks so much for being with us today, Jennifer.
If you would like to reach out to Jennifer to talk more to her about the topics we talked about, you can contact her at on her website by clicking here:
These next few months will be busy as I gather Beta Readers and a Street Team for my new book coming this fall. If you are reading this and would be interested in being a part of this adventure with me, please leave a note in the comment section below.
First, before I start, I wish everyone out there a very special May and spring season, 2021! Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms out there! 🌺
My Special Guest for the Month of May is…
Author Peggy M. McAloon!
Peggy is an author and a talented artist.
She has a story of resilience, bravery and faith.
Her story, “Elle and the Reflective Portals” is a wonderful book that reflects just that.
Let’s Dive in and Meet Peggy
Peggy, what inspired you to write your story?
I loved fantasy stories when I was young (and still do). As an abused child, the books were my escape from the real world and into something more beautiful and safe. When I wasn’t reading, I made up stories in my head to pass the time.
Mom was very religious and taught me all about the guardian angels who watch over us. I wanted to write something including those guardians that would not only touch the hearts of young girls, but provide an opportunity for discussion of today’s social injustices with their parents. Bringing fantasy and reality together was a major concern as I formulated the story in my head.
My next major concern was the diversity of our world and the young girls who are growing up afraid of the same threats I endured. It wouldn’t do to call the winged creatures angels because not every child believes in angels. So, I chose the name Fiori for the dimension rather than heaven. (Fiori is the Italian word for flowers and I’ve always imagined heaven is filled with flowers.
The main character, Elle Burton is ten-years-old as the story begins. At the age of ten, I was very mature and many times brought poorer kids to my house to trade their dirty and frayed outfits for one of my pretty tops or dresses. Therefore, because I have two sons, Elle had to be a kid like me because I have no other experience with little girls.
Fiori and the Fiorins were a joy to create. The winged creatures can be whatever the reader wants or needs them to be: angels, fairies, creatures from a dimension we’ve never heard of before, or aliens. Imagination is an incredible gift to children and I loved the freedom that knowledge gave me in creating Fiori and its inhabitants.
How many years did it take you to write it?
I spent about a year writing the book. It took another six months to do the editing and work with the publisher. The original book was roughly as long as a Harry Potter novel, but the publisher told me I had to end it in a cliff hanger because no one would purchase the entire story. The last 100 pages were removed and became the first 100 pages of the second book, “Missing.”
Tell us, Peggy, what type of research did you have to do to bring across your beautiful tale?
In order to bring inspiration to the readers, I chose to utilize many of the experiences I had and my children had growing up. As an example, when Elle chooses the class bully to help with a school project it was very loosely based on an experience my son had with the class bully.
The description of Fiori was actually quite simple. We travel to the Gulf Coast each winter to visit my brother. One of my favorite places to go during that visit is Bellingrath Gardens and Home outside of Mobile, Alabama. Even though we visit each year, it feels like heaven each time I enter the gates. https://bellingrath.org/
The rest of the story takes place here in Menomonie, WI. I spent many days driving around town with my camera figuring out which locations would be used in the book and which businesses would be featured. Once the book was published, each business featured received a signed copy of the book. I was taught at a young age that we are supposed to support our local businesses.
What do you expect Middle Grade readers to walk away with after reading your story?
My purpose in devoting so much time to this story is to convince kids in trouble to have the courage to tell someone, even if it’s another kid like Elle. For those who haven’t experienced the social injustices in this world, I want them to recognize the problems and step up to help whenever it’s safe to do so or to find an adult to help as Elle did with the girl she found hiding in the girl’s restroom at school after suffer a beating at the hands of her father.
I think Maya Angelou said it best: “If you find it in your heart to care for somebody else, you will have succeeded.” That’s who Elle Burton is – a kid who wants to help others, and now she has some magical creatures to help her.
Do you have hobbies outside of being an author?
More than anything, I love being outside. I particularly love being by the water which makes our winter trip to the Gulf Coast so enjoyable. My relaxation comes from painting in watercolor and acrylics. I also have the old Conn organ that I played in the Miss Iowa Pageant when I was a contestant back in the 60’s. I also love traveling the world with my wonderful husband and the hours of fun we’re having with our newest family member, Shelby (a Schweenie – cross between a Shih Tzu and a Dachshund). We are anxiously awaiting the summer months, when she will graduate from her “terrible-two’s.”
Thank you so much for sharing your story with us, Peggy.
You can find Peggy’s M. McAloon’s work on the following sites.
Guess what? The Early Reader I’ve been hinting about? It’s done!
I have so many things to do to get it ready for you all to see. The formatting, technical side, editing and so much more is in the works for the coming months.
Keep watching!
Have a wonderful spring and I’ll be back to catch up with more news in the month of June.
The first part of this blog is written in the form of an acrostic poem for April.
I have so much other fun news to share with you, too!
First off, let’s talk about what acrostic poems are. An acrostic poem is when a word is spelled vertically, with the first letter capitalized. Short sentences or a single word represent the word to some extent. It does not have to rhyme. I’ll tell you more about why I’m using this idea at the end. For example, let’s take the word April.
A ir that is fresh!
P astel colors!
R ainy days.
I irises
L awns full of green grass.
When you are finished reading this blog post, try this poem idea in the comment section below. Pick a spring word, or any word for that matter, and have fun making your own acrostic poem. I’m excited to see what you come up with.
Why Did I Choose This Subject?
I’ve been so excited to tell you about my next book! It will be an early reader and a simple search and find, written in an acrostic poems. I just finished illustrating page 23. I’m looking forward to sharing it with you in the months to come. For now, here’s an example of page 4 in my new book.
Interviews Galore!
I had the honor to do an interview with an author from my hometown. Kathy J. Perry. She has written many wonderful books for readers. To learn more about, Kathy, take a look at this interesting visit she had with Jennifer Milius.
Click on the image below to listen.
Jennifer Milius has a great podcast show and interviews many fabulous authors. I hope you sign up to her page so you can follow them, too. Here’s more about Jennifer ► here.
Now, My Interview With Kathy J. Perry
Click on the image below to hear our interview.
Other Surprising News About My Books
I made a comment on a blog post I follow by book reviewer and blogger, Gina Rae Mitchell.
Little did I know when I did this, I won a spot on her page to be featured with my books. Thank you again, Gina! Click here to check them out. ►My books.
Not all were listed yet on the Ingram Page she uses, so I’ve added them below for you to see those, too.
I hope you will follow,Gina’s page. Her blog is one of my go-to pages to find fun and interesting books, recipes and so much more.
That’s all I have for now. Stay tune as I’m going to feature a very special author in May. Her story and books will will warm your heart and bring you hope. Hmm, I wonder who that could be?
See you back in May!
As always, happy reading!
Rosie
PS. Don’t forget to leave me an acostic poem in the comment section below.
It’s hard to believe it’s March already, but we’ll take it. Our weather here in the Midwest was below zero a few weeks ago, but thankfully warming up and showing us a hint of Spring. We know March can be a little bit of everything around here, so we’ll keep ready for whatever is to come.
It’s also hard to believe, Easter is a month away. Easter to me is the birth of a new season. We’ve heard of many families celebrating the birth of new little ones, too.
So, what do Easter Baskets and Baby Showers have in common?
Books!
If you have older readers, you may also be interested in the recent book, Cat Michaels and I wrote called, Just Between Sam and Me. (Ages 8-12.)
Filling your gift baskets with books is a great surprise for readers.
Where to buy these books? Click on the retail sites at the bottom of this page.
If you live near me, write me a note and I will gladly meet up with you for signed copies.
In Other News..
I have been busy working on yet another picture book these past few months. I can’t wait for you to see my Early Reader which is a simple search and find. It’s also packed with lots of learning, fun facts, and activities. I’m going to start illustrating on page 19 next week, so I’m getting closer.
Once I get this next book finished, the hardest part will be the editing and critiquing. In order to do that, I will be searching for Beta Readers. Cat Michaels and I found them invaluable when writing our last book.
What is a Beta Reader? Visit Cat Michaels Writer page here to find out.
I shared this recipe a few years ago and they were a big hit. I hope you make these wonderful, easy cookies. Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day, Easter and parties.
Chocolate Chip Mint Cookies
Recipe
1 Devil Food Cake Mix
2/3 Cup Crisco
2 Eggs
Dark Chocolate Mint M&Ms
Cream cake mix with Crisco and eggs. Take dough and roll into 2 inch circle balls. Place on baking sheet and bake at 350 degrees for about 9 minutes. It’s best to undercook these.
While the cookies are hot, press four or five Mint M&M’s into the warm cookie. Cool and enjoy!
Here’s something fun I found out. You can make ANY kind of cookies with a box of cake mix, eggs, and anywhere from a ½ cup of Crisco to ¾ cups. The trick to remember is to use just enough Crisco to have the batter thick enough to roll into balls.
One Last Thing…
A big thanks to Jen Milius for having me on her TufFish Show! It was so fun visiting with you, Jen!
I hope you will visit her page and listen to some of the other authors she has recently interviewed, too.
We have winners! See note below image. You will be contacted via email.
Thanks to all that entered.
💖 Happy Valentine’s Day! 💖
Please Note:
***Entrants must*** * be 18 years or older * have a valid US mailing address for your book and bracelet * have an Amazon account and valid email for the eBook. * have 24 hours from the time you contact the winners to respond before another winner is selected
Welcome to this contest giveaway. This event ends Friday, February 12, 2021 at midnight. The winners will be announced on Valentine’s Day, Sunday February 14, 2021 at 9 am (CST) on this page, my Books by Rose Facebook and Twitter pages.
What a special treat we have in store for you.
First of all, let me introduce to you a site I have been following since I started “Books by Rose.” I met a lovely person named, Donna Furgal as she was starting a quest of her own. She wanted to find ways for girls to feel empowered with their gifts for living their dreams and creating a positive change in the world. Please check her site, “Gomee Girl” here:
Now for the fun giveaways.
If you have read the book thatCat Michaels and I have written, it’s a middle grade book called, “Just between Sam and Me.” As you know, our main character, a shy 11 year old 6th grader, struggles with self-esteem in her small town of Spring Hope, MO.
To make matters worse, a new girl moves to town and turns her world upside down. I’ll let you read more about that here. Click on the cover below.
We also wanted to add this amazing gift for our giveaway.
Enter to win this beautiful bracelet. You will even get to customize how you want it made. We will put you directly in contact with Gomee Girl’s website for you to place your order.
Another winner has a chance to win this prize! An eBook of our new story, “Just Between Sam and Me.”
We’re not done yet.
Since we’d like to pay forward the gift of reading to you even more, one winner will get to pick a physical copy of any of my titles at “Books by Rose.” Click on the image below to read more about these books for young readers.
How to enter for these prizes?
Easy peasy. Just do these two things.
💖 Leave a comment in this blog post below with ways people can pay their kindness forward for Valentine’s Day, or every day, for that matter.
💖 Share this post with your friends so they will be able to have a chance to win, as well.
And that’s it! *See rules that apply below*
Good luck and have a wonder Valentine’s Day and every day.
As always, happy reading! 💖
Rosie
***Entrants must*** * be 18 years or older * have a valid US mailing address for your book and bracelet * have an Amazon account and valid email for the eBook. * have 24 hours from the time you contact the winners to respond before another winner is selected
Last February, a group of author friends and I got together and created some fun posts for last February since it was Leap Year. Little did we know what was ahead of us.
I chose to write about trends for the year 2020. Sounded fun at the time, but then the next month, the whole world shut down.
The big color for 2020 was suppose to be classic blue.
Friends, how would we know if this color for decor came true? None of us visited anyone’s homes. Even if we did, we had other more important things on our mind, like whether or not the stores would have toilet paper. Hmm, do they still sell blue toilet paper? I remember it coming in different colors. Maybe that’s why we never saw it on the shelves. It all makes sense now. 😂
Bell Bottoms
Someone mentioned last year that Bell Bottoms were going to make a comeback from the 1970’s
Again, how would we know if that happened?
So many times I read that people were not even getting dressed on any given day. Many start working at home, so PJ’s were the biggest clothing trends. I wonder if the sales went up for that apparel? 💲
Personally, I dressed each day and did my daily ritual. I haven’t been as rushed to do so, since we seldom left the house. I have cut down on doing the whole hair and make-up to the extent I was, unless there was a ZOOM call, of course. 💻
Sports
I don’t think I have to tell you about this subject. So many sports were canceled. Little League Baseball continued, which was a saving grace for us. We got to see our family and friends and have face to face conversations with people. What a treat! 💕⚾️ 💕
Now, if you wanted to attend a big league baseball game, you could pay to have a cardboard cutout of yourself in the stands. We opted out, we were saving our money incase a toilet paper shortage were to happen again. 🧻
Food
Awe, food. Now here’s a big one!
Pop Up Restaurants were suppose to be all the rage.
Eating out in 2020 didn’t happened for several months. Sadly, some of the small hometown restaurants didn’t make it. The one good thing, is businesses upped their game and created wonderful curbside deliveries. I don’t know about you, but we found some great restaurants and made sure we gave them our support to keep them going strong. 💪
Personal Growth and Self Care
Many people were having trouble with this one, including me.
Not going bowling, not getting out going here and there made a big difference on just not moving enough. I’ve heard others say 2020 slowed them down and they were stress eating, or just plain eating more because they were home everyday.
I went through this some, so when I had my numbers checked at the end of the year, everything was “mildly elevated.” I did not like that, so I started moving more. I started watching what grams of fats and sugars I were taking in and it has really made a difference.
Audio Books
Audio books were projected to be on the rise.
With the libraries closed, with curbside services, I really missed going into the libraries browsing the shelves for those. Don’t worry, I kept them busy enough. I even told them they should keep a index card by the phone with the make of my car, because I would be there weekly. So, reading has not changed much at all for me this last year. 📚
Another hint: If you can’t find an Audio Book at your library, don’t forget to check Youtube. I have found some great ones on there. 😊
Art
Here’s another big one that has been going strong and thrived through 2020. I can’t believe all the awesome classes out there I’ve seen this past year.
If you follow my pages, you know art has been a huge outlet for me. When I don’t create something, from being too busy with other things, I truly miss it. It’s been a 100% lifesaver for me. 🎨
TV
Streaming TV shows has been highly popular these past years.
Watching TV has not changed for me. We watch our shows at night, but for me, it’s writing, reading and art during the day. Oh, that and conversing with family, friends and neighbors, which leaves me with…
Connections!!
I have visited with more people this last year than ever. Friends from long ago, neighbors that we barely saw, and family members to check in on. Even though, many of us can’t connect in person, it’s has been great catching up and staying in touch. 💞
Time Capsule
Last year at this time, our grandson and I buried this rock and a Time Capsule in our back yard with this list in it.
I really wanted you to see a video of us digging this up, but our ground is frozen and the cold snowy days have prevented us from doing this. We hope to soon.
Now For All The Good Things in 2020!
Outside of finally getting to visit and hug our kids and grandkids on Mother’s Day, Cat Michaels and I were busy, busy, finishing up and releasing our Middle Grade book, “Just Between Sam and Me.” It was released on December 02, 2020 and we couldn’t have been more pleased how everything turned out.
We were featured on many blogs, interviews and podcasts. In case you missed it, you can see them here.
“Reading with Your Kids”
Click on the image below to listen:
“The TufFish Show”
Click on the image below to listen;
“Adventures in Reading”
Here are some great authors featured here, but if you would like to listen to part of our chapter 17, from “Just Between Sam and Me,” I’m reading a few pages of our new book at, (17:32-21:42.)
Click on the image below to listen:
So, how have you all been holding up these past months. What big changes have you encountered? I hope you’ll leave us a note and tell us how you are doing and any new projects you have been working on.
Speaking of projects, I will have a new Picture Book for young readers coming out this year. All I can tell you is, I just finished page 13 out of 32 pages. I’m almost halfway finished and I’m having a blast with this one. 😊
As always, stay safe and stay well and…
Happy Reading! 💖
Rosie
If you would like to get a copy of our new book, or any copies of my books, click on the icons below.
PS. A fun “Valentine’s/Kindness/Pay it Forward” post is coming soon. Keep Watching! 💖
Everyone likes to know how books get started and where the ideas come from when questioning authors. Many of these questions have been answered from, Cat Michaels and I over the past several months. You can see more of those here. ► The Story Behind “Just Between Sam and Me”
Today, we’re here with an all new set of questions from readers about our book, “Just Between Sam and Me.” I’ll share my first four, then I leave a link for you to visit Cat’s page to read hers.
Okay, here we go!
Many readers have asked us:
Did either of you have a cat as a child and, if so, how did it inspire you to write about Sam?
Yes, I grew up with cats my whole life. We did have a cat named, Sam, but he was black and white like this one. So when, Cat Michaels mentioned our cat having the name, Sam, I was excited.
Robin from MO asked:
What childhood memories would you like to share about your cats?
This is super easy and one I can’t live this story down with my family to this day. When I was very young, I had to make sure the cat we had at the time was fully dressed everyday. Of course I had all the doll clothes, so why not, right?
One day my older brother, John asked me how I thought our cat, Katrina at the time, liked being dressed up.
I said, “Oh she loves it!”
Then he said to me, “It looks like she doesn’t have much a choice in the matter.” 😂
She was so cute running around our house in her little bonnet! To be honest, she didn’t really seem to mind. With that being said, I would not try this at home, not all cats will go along with that. Meow!
Others have asked if we are current cat owners?
Cat Michaels will tell you no, but I believe she has a relative and neighbor with a cat.
If you follow my pages, you know we have owned our three kittens the past 15 years. Yes, they will always be kittens in my heart. ❤️️
Sadly, our male cat, Frank passed away two years ago this month. We still have his sisters, Lola and Jeter. They are the sweetest and stay by my side most of the day as I sit here and work.
Jane, from North Carolina wanted to know:
Is Sam a magical talking cat?
If you have read the story, at one point he does reveal his feelings, but that’s all I can tell you about that part.
Is he magical? No, but we considered it. The reason we decided against it, was then we’d have to add it to a “fantasy genre” and we didn’t want this story to be that. Our book is very true to life with real life situations.
Jill from MA wanted to know:
Did you have a childhood BFF like Isabella?
Very much so. If you have read any of my “Maggie, Millie, and Merrie” stories, I dedicated those books to my sister and our best friend growing up. (Even though the girls in my story are triplets.) Our friend, Cindy and I have known each other since I was in the 4th grade. My sister and I have always felt like she has been a sister to us, as she spent many, many years at our home.
What kind of things did you enjoy doing together?
We did a few of the same things you will read about in the book. Sleepovers and we played the card game, Solitaire a lot. We’d spend countless late nights enjoying that game.
We didn’t have horses, but we pretended we did one winter. We always acted out movies we had seen. I can’t remember the movie, but we’d gallop around in the snow and it very real to us. I sure hope kids use their imaginations these days. We have the best memories of that and so much more.
Sue from, Connecticut wanted to know:
What’s your favorite Middle Grade book you read as a child?
To be honest, I was not a big reader of Middle Grade novels at that age. Of course I was always reading school books. I loved magazines and our mother bought many of them. Comics, Teen Magazines with famous stars, fashion and all the top music hits.
Since I can’t share the images of those here, you can see more about them on this link. ► Teen Magazines. (♪ I think many of you will remember these. ♪)
So, that’s all I have for now. Are you ready to hear some more questions Cat and I’ve been asked lately? Tap on the photo below to visit her page.
Until next time,
Happy Reading!
~Rosie
✨If you still would like to get a copy of our new book or any of my other titles, visit the following pages. ✨ Don’t forget, “Just Between Sam and Me” is on sale until January 09, 2021 till midnight. ✨
PS. Don’t forget to check back in the first part of February. ❤️️ I have a few projects in the mix for 2021 and will hopefully by then have a few things to share with you about that.
If you’ve been following the journey of our new story, Just Between Sam and Me, we have great news! The Published Button Has Been Pushed and just in time for the holidays.
Cat and I have been submitting our book to many places and have passed it on to lots of readers for their honest opinions and reviews. We have been overwhelmed at the responses we have received. Here are just a few for now.
Click on the images below to read the full articles and reviews.
The reviews are still coming in so we’ll keep you posted.
Meanwhile…
Here are the links to where you can find our special priced kindle book for only $0.99. Grab your Kindle copy at this price until December 10, 2020.
Our paperback just went live! This low price of $7.99 will remain for a limited time, as well.
Yes, that’s the fictitious setting in our story, “Just Between Sam and Me.”
My co-writer, Cat Michaels and I have been having more fun thinking of ways for us to introduce the different aspects of our new book for you, the reader.
First, let’s take a visit to, Cat’s page so you can see more on how we came up with the setting for our story.
Yeah! You’re back!
Tap the picture below as we give you another taste of our story from Chapter 17.
Now for the Reading!
More Great News to Share!
Author Mari Barnes has a super fun event for reader in December.
Don’t forget to watch for, Flying Turtle Publishing Presents Adventures in Reading with Bessie Boxturtle as The Pilot. ” Coming December 05, 2020
We’re not done yet!
In case you missed it, click below to download the first chapter to, Just Between Sam and Me.
What setting do you wish to visit in a book you’ve read?
Leave a comment in the section below. We’d love to hear from you.
If you have been following along, Carol Baldwin has been interviewing, Cat Michaels and I the last few months for our new book coming out, December 02, 2020.
Watch this important video. Click on the image below.
Chance to Win a Free ARC
Read our ►Part IIIInterview with Carol Baldwin. Leave a comment on her blog for a chance to win a ***FREE*** Advanced Reader Copy of, “Just Between Sam and Me.”
(The winner will be drawn on October 16.)
We thank you and please let us know if you have any questions.
Can you believe two months from today, Cat Michaels Writer and I will be releasing our Middle Grade book for tweens?
Now, we feel like we can start revealing more and more about our story. Not too much of course, but enough to let you know what a big part of our tale is about.
National Bullying Prevention Month
Did you know October is National Bullying Prevention Month?
Sadly, a large part about our story is about our protagonist, 11 year old Olivia, who is bullied by a new girl that moves to town. It doesn’t just stop there. She’s also being socially bullied by two of her friends she’s known since early elementary school.
To give you an idea of how this story came about, Author Tonja Drecker has written this wonderful interview with us to explain more.
Click on the image below to visit, author Tonja Drecker’s page.
If you missed the first chapter of, Just Between Sam and Me, you can down load it here.
Chapter 2 is when things really start to happen. Here’s an excerpt from our book when Olivia meets the new girl in town, Candace.
Cat Michaels Writer also wrote an extensive piece on this, as well.
Click on the image below to see more…
If you have any questions for Cat and I, leave us a note and we’d be glad to answer them.
What Plans Do You Have For October?
Do you have a new project you’re working on? Leave a note in the comment section to tell us all about it.
Stay safe, stay well, and spread kindness wherever you go. ❤️
Happy Reading!
Rosie
Don’t forget to subscribe to my page for more updates.
By now, you’ve seen our interview with Author, Carol Baldwin in August. We were featured on her page in Part I on how Cat and I met and how we got started as co-authors. In case you missed it, you can read more about it here.
Interview with Carol Baldwin
Click on the image below.
Today we’re back to tell you on how we came about deciding many issues on who was going to write what for our story, Just Between Sam and Me.
Who was going to write the opening? The end? How did we develop our characters? How did we solve our issues when we disagreed on a particular scene?
Bumps in the Road
We discussed the hard facts on what bumps in the road we came across. Writing a 30,000 word plus book is not an easy task. For those out there considering this journey, we hope to give you a glimpse of what we faced as we worked together creating our story.
Part II: Writing Roles, Bumps in the Road, and Self-Publishing
Click on the image below.
Great to have you back. Did you see the part about leaving a comment on Carol Baldwin’s page?
If you leave one, you will be entered for a chance to win a ARC print copy of our book. If you are outside the USA, you will receive an digital copy.
Extra Bonus
Thinking about co-authoring? If you stop by Cat’s page, she has something for you to download.
Click on the image below.
Good luck!
As always, feel free to write us with any additional questions.
Cat Michaels and I have been working on our story, Just Between Sam and Me, for the last year and an half and we are getting so close to getting it released!
By now, hopefully, you have visited Cat Michaels from North Carolina to see her page first, to see how this cover came about? Cat had to drive a long way on a hot humid day to meet up with the artist, Irene Jahns, for our cover to be finished.
If you haven’t been over to her page yet, check it out here or click on the image below!
Oh good, you’re back in Missouri! The Midwest weather here today is delightful!
I don’t have Country Fried Steak to serve you like Cat suggested. (Hee, hee.)
You’ll have to come back on Monday, October 26, 2020 for that. We’ll have a fun post to share about that delicious meal, a recipe, and a sneak peek of a clip from our book.
However, I do have some yummy Apple Cider from the Martin’s Apple Orchard, though. (Yes, another little tidbit about from our tale.)
Kick back and relax. Enjoy this video of our cover release. Don’t forget to turn up your sound and watch it on the full screen. You will enjoy it much more that way.
Click on the image below.
What did you think?
Did you see our release date, too? Yes! December 02, 2020!
Also, we have a bunch of fun interviews coming up these next few months to reveal more about us and our story. Stay tuned!
Cat Michaels and I are so excited to share our new book with you.
We’d appreciate if you would share our posts to help us get the word out.
Thanks for stopping by, today.
Make sure to click on the names below to read these other GR8Blogs.
Today we kick off our four part series with Author Carol Baldwin on questions and answers on howCat Michaels and I have shared our writing journey these 17 months.
Part I: Getting Started With Co-Authoring with Cat Micheals.
Don’t forget to read the important tips we left you in case you are thinking about co-authoring, too.
Remember, if you leave a comment on Carol’s page, you will receive a copy of our first chapter of, Just Between Sam and Me.
Come back in September and October to see more as we will talk about:
Part II: Writing Roles, Bumps in the Road, and Self-Publishing (September 16) Part III: Writing about Bullying (October 14) Part IV: Just Between Sam and Me Review (December 2)
If you are reading this blog, then it’s a fair guess you love to read and love books.
In this featured post, we are here to celebrate “Book Lovers Day” on August 09, 2020. Let’s have fun with some quiz questions. Yes, you can use the internet, if you wish. I will reveal the answers on Monday morning, August 10, 2020, on my Facebook and Twitter pages. But wait, there’s more!
Answer one, or any of these questions, in the comment section for a random chance to win a free copy of any of my books at “Books by Rose.”
(USA only. Sorry, the shipping is too high to mail out of the United States.)
I had fun learning these facts and I hope you will, too.
Let’s get started!
1)What is Bibliosmia?
(Scroll down for options.)
A) A person that loves to read.
B) A person that loves the smell of books.
C) A person that is fascinated by the cover of a book.
We’ve all heard of the beloved stories of Winnie the Pooh written by author, A. A. Milne.
2) What is the name of the illustrator that drew the images for his first books?
(Scroll down for options.)
A) E. H. Shepard
B) John Tenniel
C) Beatrix Potter
3) Why did Charles Dickens have a novelty bookcase filled with fake Books?
(Scroll down for options.)
A) He liked the look of a filled book case.
B) They were given to him as gifts.
C) The book case was not a bookcase and functioned as a secret door.
Speaking of Charles Dickens’s fake books, those books also had humorous titles.
4) Which one of these three titles was one of them?
(I’m making this one super easy. See how tricky I got here?)
A) The Art of Cutting Teeth
B) Tale of Three Cities
C) Oliver Twist Goes West
Okay last one…
5) People that engage in reading throughout their lives, have a better chance of preventing Alzheimer’s and Dementia later in their life.
(Scroll down for options.)
True
False
I hope you enjoyed these little tidbits about reading and books.
Do you have any fun facts to share? We loved for you to throw some our way in the comment section below.
Thanks for stopping by today and good luck winning a book!
Happy Book Lovers Day. We have some other GR8Bloggers that are jumping on board to celebrate this day. Don’t forget to check out their blogs at the bottom of this page, too.
Happy Reading!
Rosie
PS. Don’t forget to subscribe to my page for more updates.
Cat Michaels Writerand I have lots of big news to share about our Middle Grade novel in the coming months!
How’s your summer going so far? It’s hard to believe we are halfway through this year.
In July’s Blog, You Will Find:
5 Star Book Reviews
Video Title Release
Special Gift
When it comes to books, I can’t seem to get enough of them. I was so pleased after reading these 5 titles, I knew I’d have to share their reviews. Click on the titles to find the links so you can read them, too.
Julie’s book is a delightful read. This book will walk readers through so many ways to rediscover their sparkle. It shows how to look for the joy of sparkles we had as children. How to find your sparkle when you feel like the world is falling a part around you. How to savor each moment. The importance of play, yes, even as adults. Seeking to find things to be grateful for. How to breathe, meditate, and sleep well. Creating your own, “Sparkle Day,” and so much more. I also enjoyed Ms. Schooler’s wonderful challenges she included in the back of this book. I highly recommend this book for those that are looking to find more sparkle in their everyday lives.
This story was well written and the characters were well developed. It’s a story about the up and downs of friendships and set in a tone teens will understand. When Meg reads Rachel’s diary, she comes to understand how helping friends is an important lesson. The relationship of Meg and Danny will show readers what it’s like to fight with self-esteem issues and overcome them.
I highly recommend this book. It’s a must read for all teens.
AuthorMelinda Kinsman brings us this story just in time for summer.
It’s best not to invite an Octopus along on a fishing trip in your boat. My, so many things can happen. The illustrations are so bright and cheerful. Once again, Ms. Kinsman entertains readers further with fun activities in the back of the book.
This cute book written by author,Mrs. D and illustrated by Salma Riaz is a book to be enjoyed by young readers. Gavin is faced with choices on what is good and what is bad and their consequences. A rhyming story with delightful illustrations will engage readers further. I highly recommend this book.
“The Fox Family Adventures: A Day at the Beach,” written by Johnni andChris Gorges and illustrated by Christopher Cervantes, is a darling book readers will enjoy. Ben, Emily, and their parents set out for a day of fun and relaxation. There’a a mishap with an unexpected event. I highly recommend this story. It’s full of bright and cheerful illustrations that will engage young readers. I’m looking forward to more of these stories.
Video Title Release
These past several weeks, Cat Michaels and I have been working hard on coming up with the title to our next book. Here’s the video to share again, in case you missed it. Enjoy!
Special Gift
Now that you watched the video, Cat Michaels and I have a very special gift for you! A sneak peek to our first chapter. Click on the link below to download.
Sorry, but this download to our first chapter is no longer available. Please keep watching our upcoming interviews, as we will be offering it again for a chance to win.
Once you read it, come back and tell us what you think. If you know readers 8-12 years old, have them read it and come back and share their thoughts, too.
Don’t forget to subscribe to my Books by Rosepage. Go to the upper right hand corner of the page or scroll to the bottom of this page to fill out the form. We have more fun news to share with you in the coming months.
Remember to look up the books I’ve mentioned here. Oh, and if you’ve read some titles you have enjoyed this summer, we loved to hear about those, as well.
Time is zipping by us faster and faster. It’s hard to believe it’s June already.
I hope you are able to enjoy some beautiful weather where you live. We are warming up here, right on schedule.
In This BlogYou Will Find:
*Fun Warm Weather Activities
*Summer Treats
*Art Therapy
*Exciting News
Fun Warm Weather Activities
Here in the Midwest, the temperatures are warming, the flowers are blooming, and summer is in full gear. What a great time to get out doors and enjoy the sunshine for that extra boost of Vitamin D.
Memorial Day Weekend is the time most the pools were suppose to open.
From what I’m hearing, many of them are still closed due to the social distancing rules.
Image Pixabay: Pool Closed
I hope this won’t stop you for some cool water splashing in your own backyard.
When growing up, we had a neighborhood pool to walk to on those hot days.
Most of the time though, we’d pull out the hose and sprayed our way to hours of fun.
Don’t forget the Water Balloons, too! Now, they make them so easy to fill up in half the time.
Parents and kids, here are a few suggestions for exploring the great outdoors.
Nature Search and Find
Here’s a few supplies before getting started.
Take along a pencil, notebook, or clipboard to record what nature treasure finds you come across.
Grab a paper bag and magnify glass to take on your journey.
After collecting your items and investigate your findings on the internet.
Have fun:
*Observing different insects.
*Looking for different plants and flowers.
*Watch for animal tracks.
*Explore ponds and lakes.
Summer Treats
Don’t forget to treat yourself to some popsicles or some homemade ice cream.
Since this recipe from last year was a big hit, I wanted to share it again.
Homemade Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream
Homemade Chocolate Chip Ice Cream
What you’ll need:
2 cups heavy whipping cream
Chilled, 1 (14 ounce) can of sweetened condensed milk,
Chilled, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon or more of Mint extract, or other flavors that you like. Taste as you mix.
Chilled, 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips or soft candies of your choice. You can add more, it’s up to you.
Directions and Tips:
Place two cups whipping cream in a metal bowl.
With your mixer, choose your “whip” setting.
Mix until it becomes the consistency of store bought whipped cream.
(It takes awhile, keep mixing. The first time I tried this recipe, I didn’t whip it enough and the ice cream came out too hard.)
Add chilled sweetened condensed milk and extracts. Mix to combine.
Place in the freezer for three hours.
After three hours, remove and give it a stir. Add your chilled candies.
(Important note: Your candies should be chilled. They will melt in the ice cream, even at room temperature.) For safety reasons, stick to small, soft chewy candies. Hard, round candies can be a choking hazard.)
Add your ice cream to the container you want your ice cream stored in, with a air tight lid, and place back in the freezer for three more hours. Your ice cream takes a total of six hours or more to set.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Art Therapy
I’ve had many convey to me, writing and reading has been difficult to concentrate on these past few months.
Some days, it’s better to turn off the internet and news to switch up to something different.
I personally have found, staying busy is the key for me. Finding different art mediums has been my saving grace.
Here are just a few things I’ve done to keep my mind off things.
If you’ve followed my past posts, you’ve seen how I’ve kept busy with hands on crafting for ourLittle Free Library.
Another way I’ve been keeping busy, I took a workshop to learn more about portrait drawing.
They have you find a reference photo to start with and teach coloring and shading.
I’d have to say, learning to draw eyes has been one of my favorite things to learn.
Art by Rosie Russell
After researching even more drawing techniques, I found another one called, “Whimsical or Whimsy Art.”
Below is the drawing I came up with, which was a fun start.
Art by Rosie Russell
Exciting News
As you all know by now, Cat Michaels and I have been working on our MG book.
Image Credit: Pixabay
The manuscript, Cat Michaels and I have been working on, is done!!
We have a lot of work ahead of us these next several months. As it goes through it’s final edits and we proof the physical copy of our book, you will start to see bits and pieces of what our story is a little more on what it’s about.
Of course, we won’t give away too much. We don’t want to spoil it for you.
We are so please with the awesome feedback we have received so far.
For more coming news, don’t forget to subscribe to my page.
Leave us a note in the comment section below to tell us how you are doing.
What a different start to spring we’ve had, right? I hope you all are well and enjoying the great out doors.
“Bleeding Hearts” from Pixabay
Topics you will see in this First Friday GR8Blog post:
*Happy 6 Years to Books by Rose
*Mother’s Day
*Honoring Our Mother and Crafts to Make
*Fun Crafting Things for Our Little Free Library
*Update on Book With Cat Michaels
Happy 6 Years to Books by Rose
It’s hard to believe 6 years ago I started Books by Rose.
I have learned so much along the way. I’m so thankful to all those that have supported my journey. With nine titles published, I’m looking forward to more to come.
Mother’s Day
A salute to all the mother’s out there. Mother’s Day can mean a lot of different things to different people. On this day, you may celebrate with your own children, your mother, your mother-in-law, aunts, grandmothers, or the mother figures in your life.
Our sons make me forever grateful to be called their mom. I hope this Mother’s Day I will be able to spend time with them and our Littles. We miss them so much!
Me with our sons
Honoring Our Momand Crafts to Make
With our own mother, we honor her in many ways, remembering her in everything she was.
Margaret, Irene, and Mary
One way I keep her memory alive, I include her in some of my stories. For those that have followed along, you know the story about how she was a singer in her younger days. Her trio was called, “Margret, Irene, and Mary.” Sound a tiny bit familiar? Yes, my triplet books and the“name of their titles” were fashioned as close to the name of her group as I could get. “Merrie” in the story is after our mom. Our niece spells her name the same way. I thought it was a perfect fit.
Last fall, I release the triplet’s final book of my, “Maggie, Millie, and Merrie” series. The art project in the story has been a huge hit. Our mom would have loved this one, as she was big into crafts of every kind.
Maggie, Millie, and Merrie’s Mystery Mail
I recently made the art project for our neighbor for Easter. Here’s a sneak peek of part of it. It was fun to make. The possibilities for this project are endless.
Card made from, “Maggie, Millie, and Merrie’s Mystery Mail.”
If you are interested in a copy of this story, check it out on Amazon.
Fun Crafting Things for Our Little Free Library
Two years ago, my husband surprised me with the plans to make a “Little Free Library.” He’d work on it in the garage as weather permitted. He finished it a month ago around the time the world shut down. We plan to put it out soon, but want to do a weather proof run before adding books. We’ll have to wait to see how things go in the news so everyone is safe.
I had the pleasure of decorating the top part. Since I love dollhouses, this was a perfect time for me to play! Solar Lights were added to the little living room so it will be lit at night. (Fingers crossed.)
I spent very little money on the items for the room and used recycled materials. See photo below.
We are so excited to put it out and share books with our community.
Living Room for our Little Free Library
This past few months have been trying for many. Keeping busy has saved me. I made sure to take part in a few free classes offered online. I hope you all found some great things to enjoy, as well.
Update on Book With Cat Michaels
I’m also looking forward to finishing up the book Cat Michaels and I have written. It’s finished! We are going through the revision process. (Thank you, Cat for all you’re doing with that!) We are so excited to share our story with all of you this coming year.
In case you missed it, our story is about:
Image Credit: Pixabay
How are you doing? How have you occupied your time these past few months? We’d love to hear from you in the comment section below.
Keep watching this coming week, as I will share my other author friend’s, “First Friday GR8Blog” posts. Have a great week, everyone!
GR8Blogs
Stay safe and stay well.
As always, Happy Reading!
~Rosie
*If you want to see more updates, sign up to subscribe to my page. We’d love to have you on board.*
Our GR8Blog
author friends have decided to get together and create some ideas and
suggestions on how to cope for the coming days and weeks ahead.
With
everything feeling unsure in the world right now, it’s important to encourage
each other and be there for one another more than ever before.
The other day, my thoughts were on how lucky I am to have such a supportive group of family and friends. Being isolated is not bothering me as it may bother others. Well, I should say, not yet. With our cold, snowy winters, I’m used to being homebound in the winter. The positive side is, it’s now spring and we can all get outside. Although, not getting together with our sons and their family will take its toll on me if this does go on too long, though. I’m so thankful for facetime!
Many will have disappointments for canceled events. Some events may be delayed down the road. I’ve mentioned this before, “things are what we make them.” We’ve had to change the dates for holidays and birthdays. When that has happened, they have been just as much fun.
Ways You Can Help Others.
The people out there that will suffer huge losses with their businesses are the ones that concerns me. This is where we allcan help and support them.
Image Credit: Pixabay
If you know of a business in your area or your favorite place that is during curbside service, share the link to their business to your family and friends. Even if they get a few more customers a day, it will help them out a lot.
Reach Out to Those that Need that Extra Support.
Image Credit: Pixabay
Pick up the phone or write an email to those having a hard time dealing with this. Have a listening ear without discounting their feelings. I know it’s hard not to add our opinions, but sometimes people just need to vent and get it all out. Isn’t that how we all feel? We want to be heard as we process our way through this.Enlighten each other with pleasant news and other events.
Make it Your Purpose to Help Others
I’m currently reading a book called, “The Miracle Morning,” written by Hal Elrod. This book was recently suggested to me by our GR8Blog friend, Chris Gorges. (Thanks Chris.)
Image Credit: Pixabay
The first part of this book talks about having a purpose to get up every morning. Having a purpose is the key element in forging ahead and being successful in one’s life. Reach out to others. You may be working from home now, but what a better time to take part in helping others cope as they get through this day by day. It will also help you and it will leave you with a good feeling to know when you go to bed at night, you made someone’s day a little brighter.
Stay Positive
Image Credit: Pixabay
Last, but not least, stay positive and stay busy with things you enjoy. Let this be a time you and your family can look back on with good memories. You and your family can watch movies, have a read aloud time, do puzzles, or work on projects together. This is the perfect time to do so. Not only will it be fun, but it will relieve stress for everyone.
My Favorite Quote I Heard this Week
I heard a quote the other
day that was passed on by author and illustrator, A. J. Cosmo. (Just for the
record, some think Maya Angelou quoted this, but after doing some research she
said she wished she had wrote it. It’s
actually a song written and sung by Gary Allan.
Here’s the quote:
“Every storm runs out of rain.”
Image Credit: Pixabay
Isn’t that the truth? We all will have to find our “new normal” in the days ahead. It will get better and it will be okay. Take care and be safe.
Please take a look and click on the links at the bottom of this post to find more ideas and inspirations from my #Gr8Blogs partners.
Don’t forget to write a note to let us know how you are coping and add any helpful suggestions you may have.
Welcome to our Leap Year 2020 #Gr8BlogHop. My author friends and I are writing about how we will celebrate this day. Some will share how they will spend their extra day. Others, will have more interesting adventures. I’m picking…
Leaping Forward and Backwards for Leap Year 2020
Let’s talk about what trends we might see in 2020. Read to the end to see what I will do with these ideas and how we will find out if they hold true for Leap Year, 2024.
Trends for 2020
I posted this image on my Facebook and Twitter pages and ask what trends everyone thought would be popular for 2020. Thanks to all of those that gave me the best answers ever.
Fashion and Home Decor Colors
Mustard color was mentioned for home decor and fashion. Another popular one is classic Blue.
Image Credit: Pixabay
Check out “Pantone’s” Facebook page to follow more color trends coming this year. Click here to find more. ► Pantone
We had one person tell us that they think Bell Bottoms were going to make a comeback, only this time they would be called, “Wide Leg Cut.” I looked this up and found it to be true. Sounds fun and reminds me of the 70’s. 🙂
Image Credit: Pixabay
Sports
A Twitter viewer posted the popularity in women’s sports is growing. I have to agree. I hear girls wrestling is popular in the middle and high schools age groups now.
This viewer was also glad to hear WNBA and CT Sun women’s basketball teams were getting more respected and more visibility. I hope so, too!
Image Credit: Basketball
Food
Pop Up Dinners and Restaurants. Honesty, I had to look this up. I have not heard of these but found them interesting. According to Wikipedia, a “Pop Up Dinner” is, “A restaurant that is a temporary restaurant. These restaurants often operate from a private home, former factory, or similar space, and during festivals. There are rules to these that should be followed like all restaurants.”
“One must:
Create a business plan.
Choose a location.
Apply for insurance, permits, and licenses.
Set up a mobile kitchen.
Set up a temporary dining room.
Write & price a pop-up menu.
Get the right technology.
Follow a marketing and PR plan.”
Image Credit: Pixabay
Another big trend is, “Dinner Meal Kits Delivery.” We did this for a month or so and it was nice having all the ingredients in one box. Ours came with meat, vegetables, spices, and the full recipe to make the meal. They were really good. I also found new recipes to try and new ways to prepare our meals I hadn’t thought about before.
I found this page and it pretty much tells you all you need to know from“To 5 Meal Delivery Services”from their Facebook page.
Image Credit: Pixabay
Personal Growth and Self Care
This has been on the rise and will continue being a trend for many years. Being more present with yourself and others is so important. I’ve always felt if we take time to take care of ourselves, we are better equipped to take care of others.
Personal growth can come in many ways.
Surround yourself with kind people and rid yourself of negative people.
Don’t compare yourself with other people, especially on social media.
Meet new, interesting people that you share the same interests.
Find ways to laugh and be happy.
De-clutter your home or anything that overwhelms you.
Image Credit: Pixabay
Audio Books
I’ve heard there will be a growth in audio books for 2020. They are great for so many reasons. They used to be mainly for the visually impaired, which they still are. More and more people are listening to them in exercise programs and running. How about just relaxing with an audio book, too? They are very good for those learning to read and struggling readers, as well.
Image Credit: Pixabay
Sign Language
Sign language courses are on the rise, according to The New York Times. Let’s hope for more of these interpreters to be present in our schools and workforce.
Image Credit: Pixabay
An author friend and teacher of this GR8BlogHop group, would be glad to share more of this with you. Feel free to write, Chris Gorges, for more questions.
Art
Art has always, always, been a fun trend over the years. Painted Rocks are a big one right now. The idea is to paint a rock to hide or give a way to brightens one day. Just painting them and keeping them is fun, too!
Remember, “Pet Rocks,” in 1975? Now, that was a big fad. 🙂
Image Credit: Pixabay
Who has heard of Painting Classes or Paint Parties? I’ve yet to go to one but plan to someday. Look for one to go to in your town.
If you run a painting class or party, write me a note and I’d be happy to feature you on my page.
The fun painting instructions I had growing up were the “Paint by Number” landscapes. They were so much fun. Who remembers those?
Image Credit: Pixabay
TV
Renting DVD’s will always be popular but streaming TV shows are hugely popular these days. If you have Cable, you have access to millions of shows. I’m not a big TV person, but I have to admit, it’s fun to be able to find anything to watch at any given time.
It’s much different when I was growing up. We only had three channels. You had to adjust the antennas, (we called them rabbit ears,) just right or the reception was not good. Oh my. 🙂
Image Credit: Pixabay
That’s all I could find for now and looking forward to how these trends fan out. Do you hear of any fun trends you would like to share? Please leave a comment the section below.
Oh, and how will we know if these trends stay strong or not? I thought it would be fun to write them all down and save them in a container. I’m burying them in our backyard to save to open in 2024. Do I have to do it this way? No, but it’s a fun way to do a “Time Capsule,” which I’ve never done before. I’ll report the results back to you in four years.
Included in this photo are the things I hand wrote in this blog plus a rock I painted. What other tangible items could I include to this before I bury it on the 29th of February?
Trends in 2020
It’s fun to see the unique ways people enjoy spending time. What will YOU do with your extra day? Please share in the comment section. But before you go… click over to more #Gr8Blogs for smiles and inspiration for your gift of time.
At the bottom of this post, you’ll find more inspiration and smiles from my favorite #Gr8Blogs about how they’ll celebrate a year with an extra day on 29 February.
Thanks for stopping by!
As always, Happy Reading!
Rosie
#Gr8BlogHop
Now, click on these great stories for more Leap Year fun!
Valentine’s Day 2020 is coming! If you have young readers, here’s a list of my books for a special treat for Valentine’s Day. There are many to choose from for all ages.
Click on the titles to find out more. These title links will take you to Amazon. If you would like to purchase them at Barnes and Noble, or Rainy Day Books, they are available there, as well. If you live in the U.S.A and would like a signed copy, write me a note at: booksbyrose4u@gmail.com
If you haven’t met Beasley yet, you’re in for a real treat.
Everybody loves Beasley!
“Beasley’s Journey”
Beasley goes on an unexpected journey. He meets many friends along the way. Will he make it to his destination? Come along to find out!! ( A portion of the profits sold goes to animals in need.)
This early reader is available in paperback and kindle.
Readers will laugh as Lola Duck has big news she wants to share with Beasley. What will they find in Farmer Bill’s barn?
Beasley loves living in the country! He spends his days chasing butterflies, digging for treasures, and playing hide and seek with his bunny friend. Just as he settles in for his afternoon nap, his friend Lola Duck comes squawking from down the road. She says there’s a terrible racket going on over at Farmer Bill’s Barn. Beasley and Lola Duck gather their friends and off they go to solve the problem. What will Beasley, Lola Duck and their friends find when they get there? Come along and follow their adventurous day. This tale will leave readers with laughs, giggles, and will warm the hearts of young and old. (A portion of the profits book sold will go to animals in need.)
“A Search and Find of Every Kind with Jake and his dog named Cain”
Enjoy looking for over a hundred items in this search and find about Jake and his dog named Cain. Picture finds for those not yet reading, word finds for those that are. Continue the fun at home with extra search and find ideas that are included at the end of this book. (A portion of the profits sold will be donated to animals in need.)
Meet Sherman the Shopping Cart! Join him as he guides you on this journey of his life as a shopping cart. Have fun searching for over a hundred items. He has picture finds for non-readers and word finds for readers. Enjoy the fun activities in the back of this book. ( A portion of the profits book sold will go to children in need of art supplies.)
“What an absolutely delightful book. Loved the illustrations, the clever and imaginative idea of the life of a shopping cart, the humor, and all the learning activities that don’t feel like learning at all.” Author of “Just Call Me Goody-Two-Shoes” – Julie Gorges, Blogger, and Freelance Writer.
These next three books you’ll see is a series about the triplets. They are for readers that are a little more advance but still enjoy pictures books. (Grades level 3rd-5th grade, depending on their reading level.) Available in paperback and kindle.
The triplets are more than excited to move in the very same home that their mother had grown up in, on Whimsical Avenue. Come along and join Maggie, Millie, and Merrie’s, Magical Adventure! Enjoy the fun art project included at the end of the book. (A portion of the profits sold will be donated to students in need of art supplies.)
This is book two from “Maggie, Millie, and Merrie’s Magical Adventure.” The triplets enjoy a fun visit with Grandmother when she returns from Florida. As they are helping her go through the attic, they find a wooden box. Inside, there are three bright shiny coins. Grandmother tells them they are magical. What do the magical coins hold? Readers will enjoy many fun activities as this story unfolds. (A portion of the profits sold will go to children in need of art supplies.)
The triplets are back, and my, have they grown.The Midwest winter strikes them with a vengeance of snow. Stuck in the house with too many snow days, they turn grumpy with nothing to do. That is, until a mysterious package is delivered. Will the trio be pulled from their boredom as mail arrives each day? (A portion of the profits sold will be donated to students in need of art supplies.)
“A beautifully-illustrated snowy day tale, with added instructions for kids to make a craft and recipe from the story. Fun boredom-busting entertainment.” – Melinda Kinsman, Children’s Book Author and Illustrator
This new release is available in paperback and kindle.
It’s hard to believe its 2020, right? I like the sound and
looks of it.
I’ve seen fun posts already relating to the title of this year.
“Welcome to the Roaring 20’s.”
“I’ve Got 20/20 Vision for the New Year.”
We’ll just have to remember to write down 2020. That will be the tricky part for a while.
Now, for a short post on what changes I’d like to see for myself for the upcoming year.
Before I move forward…
I wanted to give a big shout out to those that purchased my children’s books for their young readers over the holidays. Please let me know your thoughts. If you could kindly leave a review on Amazon, it would be greatly appreciated.
Image Credit: Pixabay
What’s Really Important?
Well, my last day of the year in 2019, ended me in the hospital with a surprise surgery. I didn’t need my appendix anyway, right? I was back home on New Year’s Eve, but needless to say, it was an uneventful celebration. That’s okay, we never go out on that night and rarely make it to midnight, so no loss there.
Image Credit: Pixabay
My whole experience last week, put things in a different perspective and reminded me how much I’ve taken my days of “feeling well” for granted. We get busy, going through life, working at things that we think are just so important to get this done and that done. When I felt well enough to get back to my, somewhat normal routine, I found the things I was so fixated on before, didn’t bring me the same significance of importance. Have you ever had that feeling?
Family, friends, and doing the things you love and enjoy is really all that matters in the end. Sure, I work hard on my job every day, which I love! However, I will be looking at it in a whole new way, picking out what’s the most important thing to focus on and spend my time doing that. Again, that talk to self is, not everything has to be done in one day. More on that in a minute.
What’s to Come for 2020?
Image Credit: Pixabay
I’m not a fan of making resolutions, but a fan of thinking
of things I would like to see happen more for myself and improving situations
around me.
I do have a lot of things I’m looking forward to in 2020.
As I’ve said in many of my other posts, I’m Co-Writing a MG book with Cat Michaels. We are halfway there. Even though we still see lots of changes in the story from our first ideas, I feel like we are making it better than originally planned. Cat is awesome to work with and we are having a great time.
Also, as you know, I have a Picture Book that I would like to finish after our MG book. I’m looking at the end of 2020 for that to be done. This book is written so all I have to do is the fun part. Illustrating it. Again, I want to accomplish this with joy and not rush it. It’s a darling story.
Personal Projects
Since I’ve always loved crafts, I plan to emerge myself more in making crafty items, for personal use, and for family and friends. What better way for me to get away from the computer and take a break, right? I hope you will try this as well. It’s refreshing and clears your mind better more than anything I have found so far. Not a crafty person? How about photography? Pick up an music instrument and play a song? Plant a flower garden? Refinish a piece of furniture? There are unlimited ideas out there. Pinterest and YouTube are great places to start.
I believe, giving yourself permission to do something you enjoy makes your mind more clear and more focused.
Other Personal Project. Walking!
Image Credit: Pixabay
My husband gets on me all the time because I’ve slowed down with my walking habits. Again, it’s that thing about sitting at the computer thinking I have to get everything done in one day. I’ve clearly realized, that breaking tasks up into different parts of the day will be much healthier for me. This is especially hard for me when I’m illustrating a book. I literally can sit here all day, enthralled in all the tiny details. I love it so much, I never want to stop.
So, I hope to get back to our treadmill, even if it’s for short breaks every day. I’d rather walk outside, but I will have to wait for warmer days to come for that.
Do you have any special visions or plans for this New Year?
Image Credit: Pixabay
What goals do you have set for yourself? Write a note in the comment section, I’d love to hear from you.
Have a safe and happy 2020 with many blessings and good
health.
Thanks for stopping by.
As always…Happy Reading!
Rosie
Click here to check out my Picture Books for your young readers. There’s a little something here for everyone. Enjoy!
Books by Rose
I’m a proud member of GR8Blogs. Watch for posts on Facebook and Twitter this next week as I share what my author friends from this group have been up to. See you then…
If you are a writer, what big project have you been working in 2019? Have you faced any challenges? What obstacles have you had to jump? Has your writing road in 2019 been a smooth one?
I’ve had an exciting year and I can’t wait to tell you all about it.
This past year, I worked on writing and illustrating my latest book, “Maggie, Millie, and Merrie’s Mystery Mail.” It was a fun book to make and I hope readers are enjoying the art project in this story.
In October, I released my ninth book! I had a book launch in November, giving away lots of fun prizes.
If you are thinking of gifting this book, you can read the Kindle Version for the low price of $1.99. (Limited Time Only.)
***The art project will keep your reader busy for hours and hours on those snowy days, or anytime.***
Maggie, Millie, and Merrie’s Mystery Mail
Setting Up and Co-Writing with Cat Michaels– Writer
The first few months of this year were spent setting up and writing a story with Cat Michaels for a MG chapter book released next year.
Of course, we wanted to get right to the story, but, we had to decide on some business issues first. We plugged right in, getting started and paved the way to how this was going to work out.
Writing with a
Co-Writer
Here are just a few things we had to consider. We had to decide on the technical issues. How were we going to write a book together living so far away from each other? What responsibilities did each one carry? How often would we touch base to discuss updates?
Technical Issues
(Cat
and I will hopefully explain this better for you down the road. For now, here
are a few critical things we had to discuss before starting.)
Objective
Target Audience
Desired Results
Roles (How to divide the work.)
Budget
Royalties (How will they be managed and split?)
And so much more.
Building Timelines
and Character Boards
Timeline and Character Boards
For the writing part, we built a timeline and character boards. These were not made all in one day. After our characters evolved over time and more ideas kept popping up, we changed things many times. It was interesting when a situation took a whole new route and one we weren’t expecting. Writing is funny that way.
Research
Many times in our story, we run across things that need to be researched. This takes time away from our writing, but it’s been worth its weight in gold.
Horses
Horses – Image Credit: Pixabay
There has been so much that we didn’t know about horses. Luckily, we have found some great people and resources on where to get our answers. Thanks to all that contributed to this. Cat even took this research to the next level on her travels.
Another research item you may all remember, was a dinner meal the characters eat in the story. Our story is set in the Midwest and this well-known food is popular in this area. It’s Country Fried Steak. Or, is it Chicken Fried Steak? Since Cat was not familiar with this food, we thought we’d run a survey to our followers. Country Fried Steak won! That post made us all hungry.
Psssst. There will be a recipe at the back of this book for you all to try out. Yum!
Life Happens
Cat and I both have many things we do in our personal lives. She went on a few trips. I had a few times where family situations came up and had to put writing on the back burner. Knowing these busy times were going to happen, I planned accordingly and wrote as much as I could. I was lucky for the most part. When I’d sit down to write a chapter or two, the ideas flowed like magic most days. A few times though, I’d find myself stuck and have to take a break.
***Taking breaks is highly recommended, by the way.***
Now to the Story
The story we started is very different than the one we originally wrote.
Here’s the image that started it all back in a story prompt Cat posted on February 27, 2015. Wow, that was almost 5 years ago!
Cat’s Post from 2015
Our older version did involve a horse, but the situation was much different. Also, a mysterious older lady befriended our main character. I won’t tell you too much, because someday, I think the story can actually work in another genre. After looking it over and discussing it, the topic in the main plot was not one a MG reader would enjoy or find interesting. That would not work, right? We have to entertain the reader.
We did keep the setting, the family, and the horse. That was about it.
A best friend was developed for our main character. (I happen to love this character and I can’t wait for you all to meet her.)
Another character we added, is a “mean girl.” It’s probably been the hardest part of the story for me to write.
How We Pulled this All Together
We decided, I would write the chapters and Cat would go in and do her magic. If you have not seen Cat’s work yet, you will see what I mean. She can take a boring ole’ sentence and make it fly off the page.
Cat has a wonderful critique group in her hometown to look it over and add their awesome advice. So far, this system has worked well for us. (Thank you N.C. Critique Group!)
My Dream for
December and the New Year
Finishing our story and getting it out into the world to all of you! We still have a long way to go, but I feel we are on track to where we want to be.
I’m also going to work on gathering image ideas for a new Picture Book for Early Readers. That will hopefully come out late next year.
Share your Dreams for December and this Next Year?
Are you a writer in the middle of a story that you can’t wait to finish?
What big projects are you excited about?
Please share in the comment section. Oh, and before you go, find more smiles and inspirational recollections at these#Gr8blogs below.
As most of you’ve seen, I’ve had the first two books to my, “Maggie, Millie, and Merrie” series, FREE for the past few days. Just one more day to snag a *FREE* copy of Book 1 and 2.
Here’s a little background about how these books came about.
“Margaret, Irene, and Mary”
These lovely ladies are, Margaret, Irene, and Mary. They were singers in the Kansas City, MO area in the 1930’s. They sang on stage at the Brush Creek Follies, and even had a chance to sing with Roy Rogers.
Why is this so special to me? The lady you see at the end is our mother. Her name is Mary. When I thought of names for the triplets, I thought of our mother’s singing group.
Margaret was changed to Maggie. Irene was changed to Millie. We have a niece named after our mom, her name is Merrie. I thought how special it would be to use her name.
“Maggie, Millie, and Merrie”
The triplets were also inspired from our sister, Robin and a childhood friend, Cindy. My, did we have fun growing up! We did many things together as you see in the books. I’m forever thankful I’ve had them both in my life to grow and learn from over the years.
When we were young, we used our imaginations everyday, creating fun things to make and do. That is also why you see so many fun projects in all the books.
Book 1 and 2 “Maggie, Millie, and Merrie’s” Series
If you want to read more about them and the adventures they go on, click on the titles. ***FREE** today, December 02, 2019, until midnight.
Happy day after Thanksgiving! I hope you all enjoyed your holiday.
Image: Pixabay
I know many are out shopping today, as it’s the biggest day of the year to get great deals. Some are staying home and shopping online.
Image: Pixabay
As most of you know, I just released my new book, “Maggie, Millie, and Merrie’s Mystery Mail.” My book launch was a great success and the items have been shipped off to the winners. Thank you all for showing up and supporting my new story.
Maggie, Millie, and Merrie’s Mystery Mail
The reviews for this book are building everyday. Here are a few of them for now…
Snow days can be so much fun! Especially when a mysterious package is delivered. Join Maggie, Millie and Merrie on their snow day, which turns into days and boredom kicks in. That is until a mysterious package arrives that has special instructions for each girl. Boredom is no longer an issue. Beautifully written and illustrated. Great addition to this wonderful series. Also includes instructions for your own craft and recipes from the story.
Rosie Russell captures the excitement of snow days and receiving surprise packages in this delightful children’s story. She adds a bit of whimsy and mystery along with a fun craft project perfect for snowy – or rainy – days. Children will learn all about creating “widget boxes” which can be turned into a school project, a card for a loved one, or even a dollhouse. As someone who spent hours making miniature houses and cardboard furniture out of shoe boxes, I loved this idea. And if all that creating makes kids hungry, Russell even adds a yummy recipe. Beautifully illustrated, this third installment of a series revolving around triplets Maggie, Millie and Merrie is sure to please.
Cat: Can children read your book as a standalone, or do they need to read the other two books in this series first? Rosie: This book can be read as a standalone. I made sure to include instructions and ideas from the other two stories. I think readers will enjoy it even more once they read the first two books.
So, those first two books in my Maggie, Millie, and Merrie Series?
They are *FREE* today!
Not only today, this promotion will run until, Monday at midnight.
Maggie, Millie, and Merrie Series
Click on these titles to receive your free Kindle Editions:
Enjoy my blog and my #GR8BlogHop author friends posts, as we celebrate how we find our “Wintertime Bliss.”
Image Credit: Pixabay
Each of us will give you our take on what “Wintertime Bliss” brings to each of us. I hope you will click on their links at the bottom of this page to join in. Don’t forget to share with us what wintertime means to you and yours.
Book Launch!
First up in November, is my book launch for Maggie, Millie, and Merrie’s Mystery Mail.”I hope you will stop by on my “Books by Rose” Facebook page onNovember 07, 2019at 9 am CST.
Book Launch November 07, 2019
Thanksgiving
Next up, is Thanksgiving!
Image Credit: Pixabay
I wish everyone the best from A-Z for a wonderful November and Thanksgiving Day.
If you live outside of North America, you may celebrate a different holiday. Write us a note and tell us all about it.
Now on to the Rest of My Wintertime Bliss
December!
We celebrate Christmas at our home. We have so much fun exchanging gifts and eating a traditional Christmas Eve dinner each year. Our special meal is called, “Velveeta Chicken.” I usually make it along with a Sweet Potato Casserole, our favorite veggies, and rolls. Morning is spent opening presents and visiting with family and friends late into the evening.
Share with us on how you celebrate this holiday or your special holiday.
Image Credit: Pixabay
New Years!
Image Credit: Pixabay
It’s been pretty quiet around our house these past years on New Years Eve. When our sons were home, we’d eat snacks, watch the ball drop on T.V. and play board games.
How do you celebrate the upcoming New Year at your house?
Winter Reading
Image Credit: Pixabay
I plan to make sure I have a stack of books on hold from our library for those snowy days. There’s nothing better than relaxing and reading. It’s fun to get a mixture of fiction and non-fiction books. I usually have many going on at the same time. It depends on my mood that day.
Are you a “one book at a time reader” or do you read like I do? Oh, and if you have any great books to suggest, please leave the titles in the comments below.
Winter Shows
Image Credit: Pixabay
Outside of all the holiday movies to get through, my husband and I have been binge watching a bunch of shows. We are currently watching “Heartland.” Have you seen it? It’s a show based out of Canada and it’s really good. I’m learning lots of facts about horses which leads me to my next subject…Winter Writing
We are having so much fun with this book. Here’s a snippet of our story to come.
Our protagonist, Olivia, and her friend, Isabella, introduce new girl Candace to Olivia’s horse, Lucky.
“There now, boy,” Olivia crooned, moving to Lucky and stroking him gently alongside his neck. “Candace is just trying to be friendly.”
“Your horse doesn’t like me,” Candace blurted. “He’s mean.”
“He’s just not used to you. It’ll take time for him to know you, that’s all,” Olivia said.
“Yeah, right.”
“Try a friendly horse handshake like this, Candace.” Olivia suggested. She stuck out her hand with fingers held down and slightly bent. “Hold your hand like this near Lucky’s nose. That way, he can smell your hand and get to know you.” Unconvinced, Candace kept her distance, hands clasped securely behind her back.
“I was explaining the best way to pet a horse,” Isabella said, “but before I could finish, Candace reached over and petted Lucky in that small blind spot in front of his face. It startled him, so he bucked sideways.” Check out Cat’s photos here, as she visited a farm for our research. Sounds exciting, huh? Keep watching!
Anticipating
Image Credit: Pixabay
I’m looking forward to what 2020 brings. I will start another Picture book later next year. It has been written for some time now but has been put on the back burner to work on my past projects. I’m excited to get started with it. This story will melt your heart. It’s already melting mine.
Illustrating
Image Credit: Pixabay
Not only will I have the cover to finish for the book I’m writing with Cat Michaels, I’m excited to use some new techniques I found for my new Picture Book. I draw with a Wacom Drawing Pad to create digital art. What do you use?
If any of you want to begin illustrating or want to create art, please visit YouTube. It’s amazing the free lessons you’ll find. Don’t forget to follow your favorite artists. They will welcome you and love to have you on board to follow them in their journey.
What’s your Wintertime Bliss?
Image Credit: Pixabay
Please leave us a note in the comment section below. Don’t forget to subscribe to my page at the top right corner or the bottom of this page for more updates on what’s to come.
Click on the links below for more Winter Time Bliss.
Thanks for stopping by and Happy Winter!
And, always, Happy Reading!
Rosie
GR8Blogs
Author and Illustrator Carmela Dutra – Click on Part 1 and Part 2.
The weather is cool, crisp, and beautiful. Our fall days in the Midwest can run a gamut of temperatures. Our autumn days are mostly filled with warm and sunny days, along with cool evenings.
Happy October 2019!
My Favorite Reason for October!
October will forever remind me of one of the most important things in my life, my husband. We started dating in October 1972 and married 6 years later to the day. The joy he has brought me with our two sons cannot be put into words. It’s been an amazing ride and I’m looking forward to more to come.
Wedding photo from 1978.
My New Book Cover Reveal and Title
Remember last month, I said I’d reveal more about my new book coming in November? If you watched my video on October 1st, then you already saw a sneak peek of it’s announcement.
New Book!
“Maggie, Millie, and Merrie’s Mystery Mail”
“Maggie, Millie, and Merrie’s Mystery Mail”
What’s This Book About?
The triplets are back,
and my, have they grown.
The Midwest winter
strikes them with a vengeance of snow. Stuck in the house with too many snow
days, they turn grumpy with nothing to do. That is, until a mysterious package
is delivered.
Will the trio be pulled from their boredom as mail arrives each day?
Thanks for all my Beta Readers for looking it over with your wonderful insights.
This new book can be read as a standalone, although, I think readers will it enjoy it more if they have read the first two books. It’s not require. I made sure to include some back story for those that have not.
If you have not read their first two books, you can check them out here.
My book launch! You won’t want to miss this one. We will have a day of fun with my online “Mystery Fun Game.”
Clean out your computer or laptop cookies so you can search the internet for answers to my nine questions throughout the day.
There will be nine prizes to win! (Are you noticing that pattern with the number nine?) The answer to that will be revealed at my book launch on Thursday, November 07, 2019. My launch will be at Books by Rose on Facebook at 9 am and will run until 6 pm. (CST.) Come join the fun.
Before I Go…
I’d like to thank Readers’ Favorite for this lovely review and seal for, “Moonshadow Mae.” We are over the moon happy with these kind words from Emily-Jane Hills Orford.
What are your plans for October? Do you have any fun events planned for this month? How about a new project in the works? Leave a comment in the section below. We’d love to hear from you!
Join me on this first Friday of September. Come sit and let’s visit.
Welcome! (Image: Pixabay)
These months are flying by faster and faster.
School has begun, for most. Wishing you all a wonderful and
successful school year.
September Fun
When my sister and I were growing up, we loved playing word games. One of them, we called, “How Many Words Can You Find?” After putting on a timer for 5 minutes, we’d start and write as many as we could. We’d tally up our words and the one that came up with the most, won the game. It was fun to find long words to use. The longer the better.
If you play this game, adjust your time, according to ages.
Word Game (Image: Pixabay)
What words can you find in “September?”
Here are a few I found.
pet
best
Let’s play this game together. Write a few words you see in the comment section below.
Exciting News
Remember last month, I wrote about my third “Maggie, Millie, and Merrie” story coming soon? If you missed it, you can read more here.
It’s finished!
It’s currently going through my Beta Readers. For those that may not know, Beta Readers are those that have agreed to read this story to help mark errors and suggest improvements. I call these wonderful people, my Street Team. Their advise and time is valuable and appreciated.
So, don’t forget to come back the first part of October to see the…
Cover Reveal (Image: Pixabay)
When Will This Book Be Released?
I’m looking at the first part of November. Keep watching for my Book Launch with lots of prizes.
Don’t forget, to subscribe to my blog at the top right or at the bottom of this page for further updates.
Want to catch up on the triplets first two books? They are available in Kindle and paperback here.
In other news…
If you follow me on Facebook, at Books by Rose, then you saw this poster I made of a book I’m co-writing with Cat Michaels – Writer.
WIP with Rosie Russell and Cat Michaels
We asked our viewers if they were working on a WIP, and to share five words about their upcoming story. We had a great response and we are looking forward to all the wonderful books coming the rest of this year and in 2020.
Here’s five words on what Cat and I are writing about. It’s a MG tale and it’s coming together nicely. We are looking to release it in 2020.
Many people ask us how we write a book together when we live 725 miles away from each other?
We do this by working in Google Docs, emails, and many conference calls. I like to call them my “Chat with Cat” calls. Sometimes, our calls can go from one hour to close to three. We are getting better about keeping these calls shorter by organizing what we will discuss ahead of time. When this is all said and done, we may even write a piece on this for those out there working with a co-writer.
Do you have a WIP (Work in process) coming this year or 2020? Please let us know all about it or leave five words in the comment section below.
Before I leave, I want to share this recipe that I’ve had tucked away in my recipe box for years. I made this many times over the summer months. It was a big hit. With the fall months ahead, this dessert would be great for entertaining or after dinner dessert.
Apple CrispDessert
Apple Crisp Dessert
You can use any canned or fresh pie ingredients.
1 can of any pie filling
¾ cup instant Oatmeal
¾ cup flour
¾ cup brown sugar
¼ teaspoon soda
¼ teaspoon baking powder
½ cup of melted butter (1 stick)
Mix all of the ingredients above, except the pie filling, until crumbly.
Put half of the mixture in a greased 8 x 8 inch pan. You can use a regular size pie pan, as well.
Add your pie filling.
Sprinkle the other half of the mixture over the top.
Bake in the oven at 350 degrees for 20 – 30 minutes, until golden brown.
Don’t forget to try different pie fillings, like cherry, blueberry, or strawberry. It’s great hot or cold. Some like it plain, and some like it with and dollop of whip cream or ice cream.
What are you looking forward to in September?
Please write us a note and tell us about your plans.
Don’t forget to play the “September” word game and leave a word in the comment section below.
I wish you all a fantastic September.
Happy Reading!
Rosie
Find out what my GR8Blog author friends have in store for this First Friday.
A new year is always a great time to do some quiet reflections to gain perspective on how to move forward.
Join me and my author friends in this Blog Hop as we have our different journeys to report back to you. We hope you’ll join us with the following questions and let us know how your year went, as well.
Let’s Talk About Your Year
Please read the following questions and pick one, or two of them, and let us know how your year went in the comment section below.
* How would you describe 2023 in one word?
* What was your biggest challenge last year? How did you overcome it? What didn’t work? What life lesson did you learn from the experience that you’ll take with you in the new year?
* Describe the happiest day of 2023? What can you do to have more days like that in 2024?
* Name one change or difficult decision you made in 2023 that improved your life in a substantial way. What will you change this year to improve your life?
* What do you regret doing – or not doing – last year that you plan to stop/start doing in the new year?
* What were you most grateful for last year? What are you most excited about for this new year?
* What is the most courageous thing you did in 2023? How do you plan to push yourself out of your comfort zone in 2024?
* What was your biggest accomplishment in 2023? What do you want to accomplish this year?
Here’s Mine…
My biggest accomplishment in 2023?
New Releases
I released three new titles! One in the spring and two in the fall.
Goodreads Challenge
What a year in reading for me!
I made it to 50 books with it ending just in time for the holiday rush. Christmas Eve Eve, I finished my last book and was so relieved. Sure, I could have taken it to December 31th, but I knew there would be lots to do to wrap up 2023.
Here’s my last December 2023 Marathon of Titles I finished up…
A few of these last books were chosen because of the page numbers. As long as they were 100 pages or more, they counted towards the challenge. I really did enjoy them and will look for more of those this next year if I get in a bind again.
I’ve decided to only go for 40 books in 2024. The crunch time in getting them read, almost took the fun out of reading. That made me a little sad because I love looking forward to my reading time.
I will have to say, I did enjoy the books I read. Yes, there were a few you never saw on my list. If I felt at the beginning if a book was not going to be one I didn’t want to spend time with, it went into the return file. (I get most my books at our local library. I’ve also been lucky enough to find some in our Little Free Library my husband built for me in 2020.)
My 50 Books for the Goodreads Challenge
I didn’t review all these books yet, but I did rate them with stars. You can see more of those ratings ► here on Goodreads.
Like I said, loved them all, but my favorite ones?
Favorites
“Being Henry: The Fonz…and Beyond,” by Henry Winkler
“Being Henry: The Fonz . . . and Beyond,” by Henry Winkler is an entertaining book from start to finish. Winker writes this truthful, candid memoir of his life as an actor and more. We all knew Henry Winkler as, “The Fonz,” on the sitcom, “Happy Days.” Mr. Winkler shows us his time during those years where he didn’t feel as cool as what we saw on screen. Growing up, he never had the support of his parents due to his inability to succeed in school. Back in those days, they didn’t know about dyslexia, which is a disability where spoken and/or written language is difficult for readers. It also can cause poor concentration, difficulty following instructions, forgetting words. This impacted most of his life.
I’m so glad he wrote this book. He will help inform adults about this issue as well as young children struggling with this. He also has a series of books for young readers with learning differences. which are funny and resourceful
I applaud Henry Winkler for writing this book. You will also enjoy how he writes this book in his own genuine voice.
2nd Place…
“Remarkably Bright Creatures,” by Shelby Van Pelt
“Remarkably Bright Creatures,” by Shelby Van Pelt was a book I enjoyed returning to each day. When I told my sister it started out being narrated by an octopus, she laughed and said, “Hum, I’m not sure about that.” I told her, No, no, it has a great storyline intertwined as the chapters unfold.” I received a hard copy of this book at our local library. There were no errors liked mentioned in the reviews. I highly recommend those that stopped reading it, to give it another try. The characters were well developed, the settings were descriptive which made this story very visual. I’m looking forward to more books written by this author.
3rd Place…
“The Maid,” Nita Prose
I enjoyed this book, even though it’s not one I’d normally read. Molly in “The Maid,” was one I wanted to protect and cheer for throughout the story. It was somewhat predictable at times, but a page turner to the very end. I’m looking forward to more of Nita Prose’s books.
Other Books…
Art Books
What a fun year I had reading art books. I’m so excited to try out new techniques with all the new art supplies my family gifted me at Christmas. Keep watching for those.
Why So Many Cookbooks?
Our family was blessed with a new family member in January!
I knew I was going to cook for her family so mom and dad would have the time to not fret over, “what’s for dinner?”
We gifted ourselves a “Food Saver” for freezing meals. The cookbooks I devoured this past year had great tips and recipes.
What’s To Come From Books By Rose
Art, Audio Books and Remakes?
I know for sure, art and audio books will be a thing for me in 2024. I found the site to our local library to listen to books. Yes, those still count for the Goodreads Challenge.
Like I said, I received many art supplies over the holidays. So, I’m picturing listening to books and creating something, not sure what yet, ha! I guess I’ll see where the muses take me.
Another thought for 2024, and I want your opinions on this.
Making my “Maggie, Millie, and Merrie” books into a hardcover chapter book. Yes, I will still have the picture, illustrated books for younger readers. I’m thinking of using the same stories, tweaked a bit for higher readers and maybe an added story or additional activities? Please let me know what you think about this in the comment section below.
Tell Us About Your Plans For 2024!
Did you read a lot of books?
Authors, are you writing any new books you’d like to share?
Artists, what new projects can you share with us?
I hope you all have a wonderful 2024! May you have everything you want and need in this year to come.
First, here’s some bookish news from October. Also, I hope to hear about what books you have been reading and what plans you have for November 2023.
Let’s get started…
My Recent Book Launch
If you been following page for some time now, you know I just finished a twenty day book launch for my 15th book. What fun we had! I miss my people already and am so very thankful to all those who showed up. 💗
We had these Amazon Ecard winners! Yay! Congratulations everyone! Happy shopping and I hope you get something for yourself or someone you love.
Missed My Book Launch?
If you missed my book launch, we were celebrating these two new books.
(Click on the image below for a closer look on Amazon. Feel free to look around for some of my other titles while you are there, too.)
More Bookish News
Have you heard of the award winning and loving ► children’s author, Mrs. D?She’s amazing and I was given the opportunity to read three of her latest books. Here they are with my reviews.
I wish I would have had a story like, “Kitten in the Window (Kitten’s Stories Book 1,)” by Mrs. D and illustrated by Saima Malik when I was growing up with all the litters of kitten we had over the years.
We all have our own distinctiveness, whether it be in size, appearance, ability, communication style, or even coloration. When the sweet calico kitten in this story stood out from her large litter, appearing completely different from her siblings, she had many questions. Feeling disheartened, her mama cat taught her a valuable lesson: every living being on Earth possesses their own distinctiveness that is worthy of celebration.
With its vibrant illustrations and empowering message, this charming children’s book encourages love, acceptance, and the celebration of individuality.
I highly recommend this story for read a louds at home and in the classrooms.
“The Day Before Thanksgiving (Kitten’s Stories Book 2,)” written by Mrs. D and illustrated Saima Malik is another adorable tale about an old outside cat and it’s pre-Thanksgiving adventure.
The day before Thanksgiving, a curious little kitten observes the autumn leaves gracefully floating among the autumn skies outside. The day is filled with anticipation and joy, until he witnesses the old outside cat from his window, who unfortunately finds himself a challenging situation. Caught with the surprise of a wild turkey, the old cat’s hunting endeavors take a turn for the worse. Will he survive this great predicament?
I highly recommend this holiday Thanksgiving story for readers at home or in the classrooms.
An adorable little kitten couldn’t contain her excitement as she meets a beautiful real Christmas tree waiting to be adorned with decorations in the corner of their garage. She spots an old Christmas tree neglected, abandoned and forgotten in a mass of past years decorations. Which one will be picked? The illustrations are stunning and are absolutely breathtaking. “Forgotten Christmas Tree (Kitten’s Stories Book 3,)” written by Mrs. D. and illustrated by Saima Malik has done it again in this cute Kitten series.
Goodreads Challenge Books
Since October, I’ve read the following books for the Goodreads Challenge. (The above children’s books did not count towards the challenge since they were not at least 100 pages.)
I have 14 more books to read before December 31, 2023. Do you think I’ll make it? I sure hope so.
This book was originally published in 1979. It’s a large, 260 page hardcover book, which would make a great coffee table book.
Since I live in Kansas City, MO, I have known about this greeting card business, Hallmark cards, since their home office is here along with “Halls,” “The Hallmark Channel,” and the shopping center, “Crown Center” became so famous.
If you’d like to learn how Joyce C. Hall started his business and enjoy learning about a “rags to riches” story, you will want to read this one. This was an interesting book and I learned so much from this iconic salesman and his team. He was a man of integrity and ran his company just the same. He valued his employees and his family the most.
If you are hearing about this book launch for the first time, here’s the link to catch up from the post I wrote in ► September.
We are well underway on my “Books by Rose” Facebook page with a week full of fun!
Here’s what we have so far:
*Monday – October 02, 2023* (Blue Day)
“How Books by Rose Started”
For those new to my page, I’m Rosie Russell.
I started this journey 9 years ago and celebrating my 15th book. This book launch will run from 10/02/23– 10/20/23, week days only. (See calendar of events below and how to win prizes.)
I have two books to launch these next several weeks:
Three people will be picked to win a gift card to Amazon on Monday, October 23, 2023
***Ways for a chance to win this prize.*** (USA only)
*Comment or like post each “Blue Day.” 1 entry
*Share “Blue Day” posts – 3 entries (Don’t forget to tag me so I see it.)
*Take a photo of one of my new books with you holding it or tell me you purchased a Kindle book for me to check. – 3 entries
*Wednesday – October 04, 2023* (Blue Day)
On this day, we talked about what “Storytime with Stella and Friends” is about and how I arrived at my giveaway for this book launch.
“What Prompted “Storytime with Stella and Friends?”
As you read on Monday, I have been on a 9 year journey as an author illustrator. One of my favorite things are encouraging children to write their own stories.
You know what? Writing is hard! Where do you start?
Stella didn’t know where to start either. Here’s the synopsis.
“Stella loves reading to her toy friends everyday. The problem is, they have grown weary of hearing the same stories day in and day out. Stella needed their help!
Join the fun, as Stella comes up with a terrific idea. Readers will laugh as they follow this story. They will also gain valuable writing tips that are bound to leave a lasting learning experience.”
*Friday – October 06, 2023* (Blue Day)
Who is in “Storytime with Stella and Friends?”
Meet Stella, of course. Her toy friends, Benny Bear, Evie Elephant, Princess Patti and Dolly Dolly.
“How I Arrive at Names for My Characters”
Most the time, I like to put a lot of family and friends in my books because they mean so much to me.
Stella is a very sweet someone in my life. Benny Bear is named after our great-nephew. I only know one Evie, a darling little sister on a baseball team from many years ago. I thought it would be cute name for a girl elephant, too. Princess Patti is after two people close to my heart. One is a dear friend and one is our cousin. I wish I could say Dolly Dolly is after my favorite singer, but it isn’t. I picked it because I liked the sound of it.
As you see so far, I have posts on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Tuesday and Thursday are my “Catch Up” days for both of us. (Pink days on calendar.) That way, you have time to see the posts if you are in a different time zones and I have time to collect all your names.
I hope you will keep watching until the 20th of October on my “Books by Rose” Facebook page.
In Other News
I’ve been back to reading books for the “Goodreads Challenge,” that is, when I have time. Baseball season is over, Cross Country season has ended, now it’s off to watch some Hockey and Basketball this winter. Can you tell we like sports? 😂
I have read the following books but I haven’t had time to review in Goodreads properly yet, but I will. Here is my take on them so far…
“You Are Here,” by Karin Lin-Greenberg
This book is an adult book but can easily read as an YA.
I liked how the author kept the characters in the stories a part and still in the storyline. There is one part that makes me want to give this 4 stars because of a situation at the end. Sorry I can’t tell you what that is or I’ll spoil it for you. If you have read it, write me a note and we can visit about it.
The Book of Charlie: Wisdom from the Remarkable American Life of a 109-Year-Old Man, by David von Drehle. (Adult Book)
This book has a lot of Kansas City, MO history, which I loved reading about.
The author wrote this story for his children. Why? You see, Charlie is their neighbor.
After many interviews with Charlie, author Drehle reveals a lifetime of Charlie’s life. If you like history, you’ll enjoy this book. I sure did.
Barbie and Ruth: The Story of the World’s Most Famous Doll and the Woman Who Created Her,by Robin Gerber (Adult Book)
You may have to be a big Barbie fan to enjoy this book. I enjoyed learning about how Barbie came about and the story behind the maker and her husband’s journey. They went through some tough times, which is the bulk of this book. It does give one a sense of perseverance and tenacity when you read about the long struggle they went through Mattel, other companies and adventures in producing and marketing products.
Fly Girl: A Memoir by Ann Hood (Adult Book)
I read this book because it spoke mostly of TWA and the writer, Ann Hood, and how she started with them as a flight attendant in 1978. Our aunt worked for TWA for years up until she retired. She was always bringing us little trinkets from her office when my sister and I were growing up. I felt like I knew a little about TWA from those younger years. What’s funny about me reading this book, I have never entertained the idea of being a flight attendant because flying is not one of my favorite things. Sure, I’ll go if I have to, but it’s never my first choice.
This is a great book and I really did enjoy it a lot. Lots of interesting things happened to this author as she writes the good, the bad and the ugly of her trials she experienced during her career.
That’s about all I have for now.
Tell Us About You!
What have you been up to this early fall? Any new projects? Vacations?
I hope you all had a wonderful summer. By now, the kids are back in school and we all are preparing for the fall and winter months to come. After our recent heatwave, I’m ready for those cooler temperatures.
I’m Planning Something Fun For You at Books by Rose
The busy days seem to never stop around here, but I love it. I have something very special planned for you and that’s what we’ll talk about here today.
If you follow Books by Rose, then you know my most recent book release was in April 2023. “Big E’s Trick to Fishing.” What a wonderful response we had this summer and it remains to be on the popular list on Amazon for young readers. Adults are enjoying this book, as well. If you remember my book launch in ► April, we had a blast on my “Books by Rose”Facebook page. I ran it for thirteen days because it was my thirteenth title. Phew, these launches are getting bigger and bigger. 🤣
Exciting News Coming in October 2023
I have not only one book to add to my list, but TWO! Yay!
I’m soooo excited to tell you about these!
What to Watch For in October
Starting Monday, October 02, 2023, I’ll be announcing what these two books are about. Then, I’ll have fun posts for a chance to win prizes. I’m doing things a bit different this time so please keep reading.
Here’s The Poster on How It Will Work.
Book Launch Information
Basically, you’ll want to tune into my ► Facebook “Books by Rose” page Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from October 02, 2023 to October 20, 2023, weekdays only from 9 am (CST) to 5 pm.
On those days, I’ll be sharing information about these two books, or, giving you clues with what they are about with fun posts.
How Do You Win? (Please read carefully.)
Blue Days – Comment with an emoji, or a written comment and your name will be entered once on each BLUE Day. Yes, I keep track of all of them.
Pink Days – “Catch Up” days. Since many of you are in different time zones in the USA and on Facebook at different times of the day, it’s a great way for me to keep track. So, “Catch Up days, are for me to keep track of all the entries from the Blue Days, regular posts days. You are welcomed to pop in with a hello on “Catch Up days if you wish, but I will not be entering names on those days.
Hold Tight! There’s More Ways to Enter.
Share my book launch news or “Blue Day” posts and I will add your name 3 times each time you do. (You must tell me you did or show me somehow since Facebook will not allow me to see some shares if accounts are set on private for me to confirm. Tagging me, Rosie Russell or Books by Rose, may help too.
Here’s another one. I will post links to both books on every post. If you end up purchasing one of my new books, post a picture of your confirmed purchase, I will enter your name 3 times. (You do not have to add your face.) Just a picture of you holding the book.
Kindle – If you decide you’d rather purchase a Kindle, tell me the date you bought it and I can check my Amazon account to verify your purchase. Those usually show up right away. Again, your name will be entered 3 times.
Here’s a closer look for you on what’s on the poster.
Take a Photo of my New Book(s) or Confirm Kindle Purchase for 3 Extra Entries
Here’s Why I’m Announcing Everything So Early
Amazon can take a while on some purchases, so if you are interested in the above entries, here’s a chance to buy one or more now, if you wish.
*The prices for the above paperback copies will be available for September and October 2023 only.* (Amazon could always change those prices in the future, but we never know when or if that will happen. They surprise us from time to time with nice sale prices.)
Why Am I Doing Things Different This Time Around?
Two things.
In the past when I offered items in my book launches, Amazon gift cards were highly appreciated. That way, you can buy what you want and I’m able to cut down on the cost of items and shipping costs. This also gives me a chance to give more to you!
“Catch Up” days occurred to me on my past book launches. Phew, it was getting too hard to keep track of everyone’s names, especially if they had not seen the previous day’s post, which is fine.* No one can’t always be on their Facebook pages. I know I can’t be or I’d never get anything done. 🤣
(*Yes, I know there are generators which pick the names for me, but I like learning your names if you are new to my page. Writing them down helps me do that.) 😊
Also, if I don’t respond to you in the evenings after 5 pm,don’t worry, I’ll see everything the next morning.
Three People Will Get A Chance To Win These Prizes!!!
Amazon Ecards USA Only
Before you enter, you may want to consider the following:
A valid email so I can write you a note from my Books by Rose account. That way, I can send you an Ecard from Amazon.
You must live in the USA. (Sorry international friends, but I’m sure you understand.) Here’s what I found out about that:
“Amazon gift cards can only be used within the country of purchase. If you purchase an Amazon gift card in the United States, it can only be redeemed by someone with a US-based Amazon account.”
So, of course, you must have a USA Amazon account I will be notified when your card has been sent and I will clarify that with you, if needed.
***If I don’t hear back from you to verify your winnings through an email message from me after 72 hours, the next name will be picked.*** (Don’t forget to check your spam folder, just in case.)
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Other News
Books andGoodreads News
Goodness, I’m so behind in my reading this past month. I’ve read 29 out of 50 so far in 2023. I’ll catch up when things calm down.
I did read the following book and completely enjoyed it.
“Only the Beautiful”
Five Stars – This historical fiction book, “Only the Beautiful” by author Susan Meissner is one of those books I didn’t want to end. It’s a heartfelt story with a plot which will teach readers of the past in the late 1930s to 1940’s during the World War II era. The main characters are told in two POVs and each of their stories are beautifully written.
Tell Me About You!
What do you have in the works these days? Are you working on any writing or art projects you’d like to share?
Writing
Thanks for stopping by and being a part of my Books by Rose page. I appreciate you! ❤️
I have been meaning to get more serious with the challenges they have each year in my Goodreads account. This year, I decided to give it my best shot.
The other day, I spent most of the morning cleaning up my Goodreads list of books. It’s hard to believe I’ve neglected to follow up on some of my books from 2017.
I had so much fun adding them to my physical list. I actually went a little overboard. I call it “Hold Happy at the Library.” Oops, a whole bunch of them came all at once.
PS. That little black ball of fur is one of my reading buddies, our sweet Jeter. It’s cold here in the Midwest so she was happy to find this warm little spot of sunshine.
Reading!
I will be back these next several months to talk about the books I’ve read. Keep watching if you are looking for book suggestions.
Oh, I forgot to tell you. My goal is to read 50 in 2023. That sounds like a lot, but I made this goal many years ago and made it. I only wished I would have kept that list.
Books I’ve Read So Far This Year
(Reviews for these books are in my Goodreads account)
A wonderful, easy to follow, step by step to sewing for newbies.
Craft For You To Make
Okay, I have to admit, I’m cheating here sharing last years Valentine’s Day craft. I don’t think you’ll mind seeing it again, though. It was a big hit last year and it brought lots of smiles when we gave our cards out on February 14, 2022.
Just paint or draw this on any paper or cardstock. Use your imagination on more things to include. Maybe a house in the background? Add a few animals?
I loved taking our sons the first Wednesday for story time every month. We would bring home a stack of books. I was able to continue this tradition with our grandson when he was younger, too. I hope you get to make it to your local library. Most branches will have lots of fun of activities, I’m sure.
My book coming this spring/summer has been sent to my Beta Readers and what great feedback I’ve received. A few more tweaks and it will be ready. Keep watching. You know me, I always love to throw big parties when I release a new book. I’ll have to put my thinking cap on for this one.
Don’t forget, books make great gifts for holidays or any day. I hope you will give the gift of reading to those you love.
If you have not seen all my books before now, click on the poster below to check them out.
“Give the Gift to Reading”
More Authors For You to Check Out
Speaking of books, here are a few of my author friend’s books you will want to check out, too. Sorry I can’t include them all. I sure wish I could.
If you are an author reading this, please leave your name and website in the comment section for us to check out your books, as well.
If you remember, I mentioned I was going to take a 100% of all the royalties from the sale of my “Avi Jackson Best Friends” book and donate it back to baseball players in some way.
Avi and Jackson Best Friends
According to Amazon and their current updates, I sold one paperback book. That’s okay as it gives me enough to work with helping a player or two out. Even if it’s a snack or drink before or after a game, I think they will be pleased.
Other News…
My next Early Reader is coming along nicely. I’m working on my 8th page and I’m having so much fun putting it together. If you remember my “Beasley Helps” book, if will be made very much like that. Real people with added illustrations. I’m excited!
Reveal of the BIG Personal Project I’ve Been Talking About
This next personal project has taken me many months of planning, cutting and gluing to put together. I was going to make it as a gift, but decided it was something that we can work on together over time. So, this project will stay at our home, well, for now. (It wouldn’t be fair to give a gift and tell them they can’t take it home, right?)
If you have read that book and made the project in the story, then you know what exactly that is. It’s a small little, 6 x 6 book that unfolded into a dollhouse. I’ve made many of these and have given them as greeting cards over the years, too.
6 x 6 Art Project Card Opened Up
Well, I decided to make one of these on a much, much bigger level!
I made rooms 12 x 12 rooms with added items. Here’s what it looks like folded up and tied together.
A 12 x 12 Book Dollhouse
Watch the video below to see it now. (If for some reason you have a hard time watching it, feel free to download and watch on a device that’s best for you. Just click on the three small dots to the right of the video.)
Big Project Revealed
We are going to use an array of characters for our house. Our plan is to make paper doll type figures. I can see this as a fun Barbie dollhouse for later on, too.
Here’s My Question
“What Are Your Thoughts?”
Do you think readers would like to know how to make something like this on a larger level? If so, do you think they would enjoy an activity book/story with templates, measurements, ideas, etc.?
I have a friend that suggested readers could make other things out of this project. Perhaps a grocery store? A department store? A school? A Pet Rescue Center? (I really liked that idea.)
Please leave me a comment. I’d love to know what you think.
Tell Us What You Have Been Up To
What have you been up toand do you have any projects in the works. We’d love to hear all about them.
Please join me and my author friends as we explore the different ways we have grown and learned throughout our years as writers. Many of us also illustrates our books, as well. I will share those experiences with you all today, too. I hope you’ll check out my author friend’s posts at the end of this blog.
What I’ve Learned As A Writer
When It All Started For Me
I just celebrated 8 years of this wonderful writing and illustrating journey on, April 27, 2022. I also released my 12th book in April called, “Beasley Helps.” You can read more about that here ► Book Launch
I can’t tell you the fun I’ve had and have met the greatest people from all over the world. Being somewhat of a shy person, I’ve really come out of my shell. Well, you almost have to, when sharing your work with others. Yes, it was scary at first, but after awhile, you do get used to it.
My First Book
My first book was created for our sons. I wanted to write a story about all the fun they had growing up. In the book, I made them best friends, which I’m proud to say, they still are to this day. It’s an endearing tale and I cherish this one so much.
What I’ve Learned and How I’ve Grown:
Since I’m a self taught illustrator, I had to research the field to see how I was going to make this book. My husband bought me a Walcom drawing pad and I learned as much as I could. My, have I grown a lot since this 1st one. I’ve attended many art workshops over the years and have learned many styles of art. I continue to practice and learn as much as I can.
Avi and Jackson Best Friends
My next book was based on a puppy we had growing up named, Georgie. I recreated him and named him Beasley. He has 3 books now in a series and has a huge following of loving fans. Everybody loves Beasley!
What I’ve Learned and How I’ve Grown:
I didn’t think about the first book, “Beasley Journey” turning into a series. Over the years, the beagles in the first book passed away. As the years went by, I had to find beagles to draw that had the same coloring as them. In the 2nd and 3rd book, I decided to use photos given to me to crop in, which even made the images more interesting.
Beasley’s Books
MyNext Three Books
My Maggie, Millie and Merrie books. These books are for higher elementary readers and have fun art activities at the back of the books. I love this series and it grew into more and more as time progressed. FYI, be watchful when saying you’re bored around these triplets, something magical always happens.
What I’ve Learned and How I’ve Grown:
Since these books have more words than my Early Readers, there was much more editing involved. People think children’s books are easy to write, well, because they’re children’s books, right? That’s not so much the case. I learned, “less is more” when creating the sentences in these stories.
Maggie, Millie and Merrie’s Magical Series
On To My Search And Finds
These search and find were a lot of fun to make. There are word finds for readers and picture finds for non readers. These books are great to take along for long car travels and will keep your readers entertained for hours. They all have a story to go along with the searches. For example, Sherman will tell his story on what it’s like to have the life as a shopping cart.
What I’ve Learned and How I’ve Grown:
Search and Finds are a blast to make, but they are also a lot of work. If you ever plan to create one to the extent I made mine, (they search for over a hundred of items in two of these books) plan ahead and plan to work on them for awhile. These books didn’t go as fast as my others. Will I make more again? You bet, because readers love them and I enjoy making them. If you have any ideas for a certain theme for a search and find book, write me a note. I’d love to hear your ideas.
My Search and Find Books
My First Hardcover Book – “Moonshadow Mae”
“Moonshadow Mae” is a darling book about a little girl that adores the moon. What a nice reception this book has received. It’s full of learning facts, an art craft and a yummy recipe. Make galaxy rocks and Moon Pies in your very own kitchen.
What I’ve Learned and How I’ve Grown:
Making hardcovers requires a lot of research and making sure you find the right company to print your book. I used Ingram Sparks. I had to buy my own ISBN and barcode for this book, along with setting it up with the Library of Congress. If you want your library to carry this book, have them order a copy. To make that process easy for you, just give them these numbers:
ISBN:978-1-7323848-0-4
Library of Congress Control Number: 2018907295
“Moonshadow Mae”
My Middle Grade Book with Cat Michaels Writer
Talk about growing as a writer, whew. I never thought in a million years I’d be able to write higher than children’s books, but I did it! Yay! Cat Michaels is a higher level writer, so with her expertise in this field already, we made it. It took us twenty-two months of sharing our chapters back and forth and created, “Just Between Sam and Me.” It’s a book about a young 6th grade girl that lives in the country. All she really wants is to hang out with her best friend and her animals on her farm. Her first day back to school crashes down after a mean girl moves to town and tries to ruin all her dreams.
What I’ve Learned and How I’ve Grown:
I learned so much from this process and enjoyed how our story turned out. I’m so glad Cat and I accomplished our goal of 30,000 plus words and turned it into a story that readers have enjoyed.
Our Middle Grade Book – “Just Between Sam and Me
Now For My Special Share
After celebrating 8 years in writing and 12 books, I treated myself to something very special. I always said I wanted to set a goal for 12 books so I could create a virtual dozen of roses. Why virtual? Our cat, Lola loves flowers so much, she eats them. Yikes! So, that was out of the question. I was blessed to meet a wonderful artist in Texas and guess what? She makes beautiful silk roses! Well, I’ll just let you watch this video to see more…
(Please excuse the low audio. I’ll record on a different device next time. I have written about most of this I’ve told you above. Thank you. )
Thank you, again Hilda! I love my roses as they will last forever!
I appreciate you all stopping by today. I hope you will check out my author friend’s post as they share their writing journeys and how they have grown.
Have a great start to your summer and, as always,
Happy Reading!
Rosie
More Inspiring Posts and What They Have Learned…
► Julie Gorges – 3 Ways Writing Made Me a Better Person
►Auden Johnson – 9 Years as an Indie Fantasy Author-What I’ve Learned
► Sandra Bennett – What I Have Learnt As A Writer That Can Also Help You
Rosie: Join me as I present this 2nd interview with Mr. D and her recent books.
Mrs. D., thank you for joining me today to let us know about your new delightful children’s books.
Let’s start with “Where Did Grandpa Go?”
“Where Did Grandpa Go?”
This book feels like it was inspired by a real person who may like taking road trips? Is that true? If not, what inspired you to write this story?
Mrs. D: Thank you for the opportunity to be on your blog. I really appreciate you taking time to review my new books.
Book 1, “Where Did Grandpa Go?” was based on a real grandpa, one that I know and love very much. He is really a grandpa with golden hands, smart and kind. But unlike others, he thinks differently and always likes to do things his way, which isn’t always the shortest way. But I can tell you that his long ways of doing things never disappoint people, because the quality of his work never falls short once he’s finished the job. Let’s put it this way: If you ask our grandpa what time is it, he will gladly explain or show you how the watch was made. Smile! Our grandpa likes educating people about everything he knows. It may seem annoying to some folks, but when you listen to him, everything makes sense, especially for children, who are really interested in how things are made or done. So I thought that our grandpa’s story would show children that it is OK to take time to do things or chores, as long they accomplish their tasks and provide quality work.
Rosie: Your illustrations are by Saima Malik, which are stunning! Tell us how you two were able to create such cute images for your books. In other words, do you send images of what you expect or do you allow your illustrator to work on her own?
Mrs. D: Throughout my writing carrier, and twenty-plus books later, I’ve worked with many illustrators. To my good luck, all of them have been great! But working with Saima is a pure pleasure. It’s seems like she reads my mind. She is very intuitive and feels the story. She knows how to convert my words into art. We are working as a team. First she reads my story and we agree on style. Than I provide descriptions, and sometimes she asks for photos of the real people that my story is based on. After that, she creates all the characters. After we’re both happy with the characters, she creates the sketches, and after approval Saima moves to the coloring stage. She is a very talented artist who always has a feel for the story. She can be serious or funny, depending on the mood of the storyline. She is extremely easygoing, a great communicator, and very easy to work with. She works fast and always delivers her work on time. She is very knowledgeable. She uses new techniques and always has good surprises up her sleeve. I always listen to her suggestions when it comes to art. She has already illustrated four of my books, and I could not be happier and proud of how her artwork represents each book. In addition, she is very fast and affordable. A real gem!
Rosie: Now, let’s talk about your other Grandpa book: “My Grandpa is a Werecow”
What a great, fun story to teach young readers about our heart and eating healthy. (Adults, too.)
As you said, this is based on a real life experience.
Tell us about this story.
My Grandpa is a Werecow
Mrs. D: Book 2, “My Grandpa Is a Werecow” was inspired by my husband, who had a complicated heart surgery a few years ago. He had four bypasses and heart valve replacement. At that time our grandchildren were still young and didn’t understand why they had to be careful when they played with Grandpa. We explained to them that a huge scar on his chest was from repairing his heart when it got sick. And Grandpa always joked with them that because the doctor borrowed the heart valve from a cow, he can moo like a cow now. His story made them laugh and they all mooed together, pretending to be cows. They also asked why he must be a cow now. He told them it only happened when the full moon appeared in the sky. And he told them how they must take care of their hearts so it wouldn’t happen to them. Together they created a great story, and one night when the moon was in its full glory, they waited for hours by the window to see their grandpa flying over the moon. They were very excited, and imagined what Grandpa might look like, telling me all the versions they could come up with. It was really a fun night, and after they finally fell asleep, “without Grandpa turning into a cow, of course,” I immediately put their stories on paper. Since then, whenever they stay with us they want to listen to this story, sometimes a little bit scared but sincerely believing that one day they will see Grandpa flying over the moon as a cow. What could be more adorable than listening to their stories until they fall asleep? They are bigger now, but they still talk about this story every time they see a full moon. The youngest still believe it and wait by the window. But now, the older siblings have stopped feeding the youngest with all kinds of mischievous versions of the story because my book is out and they can see the pictures. So much fun!
Rosie: Last but not least, you have another book you’ve written this past year. It’s a chapter book for older readers, “The Cat That Wanders by Itself.”
What can you tell our readers about this darling book and Nyda’s adventures?
The Cat That Wanders by Itself
Mrs. D: I always thought that as long as I have a cat, I have a good, trusted friend. My cat friend was a little quirky and opinionated, but she was always by my side. Nyda and I shared a special bond and love. She entertained me with her behavior, and I put up with her disappearing for weeks at a time. She was an unusual calico cat, an expert on life, with intelligence, dignity, and playfulness in equal proportion. She understood when to be sweet and charming and when to ignore everything, when to be independent and strong and when to cuddle up to me. Amusing, impulsive, and often unpredictable, she lived on the edge, exploring every opportunity and taking risks, believing that there must be more than nine lives. I wrote this story as a tribute to her adventurous life. My hope is that readers will see how unique Nyda was—a loyal and caring companion, a brave explorer and lucky survivor, a free spirit that wandered many places but was always in my heart.
As you already noticed, I love to write children’s stories, but I also love to write in different styles.
“The Cat That Wandered by Itself” isa beautifully illustrated, black-and-white style, size 6×9, about 325 pages, for readers age 10 and up. It is a heartwarming story told from the perspective of an unusual calico kitten named Nyda that went on a dangerous journey, practically using all her nine lives, if the old saying is true, but always managing to return safely to the people she loved. This book is for older independent readers and is out on Amazon in e-book, paperback, and hardcover versions.
Also, I hope to finish my new novel “The Chinese Princess,” publish three books from “The Kitten’s Stories” series (“The Kitten in the Window,” “The Day Before Thanksgiving,” and “The Forgotten Christmas Tree”), and illustrate a few books from “The Lost Baby Tooth” series. Saima is doing a wonderful job with these books. They are so colorful and festive! Real treats for any age!
Rosie: Thank you for sharing more about your stories. Please share a link where we can find your books.
Mrs. D: My books are not simple; they are intended to make the young reader stop and think about the message that the story is delivering. I am a strong believer in good-quality illustrations, calming, but fun; nothing drastic or overpowering. They are colorful and represent the story before a child starts reading it. They are also creative and perfect for a child’s growing mind. I do not choose the story; the story chooses me. Mostly, I write for children ages 4 to 10, but I have books for older readers, like “The Little Girl Praying on the Hill,” “Taste of Bread,” and my new book “The Cat That Wanders by Itself.”
Stories are everywhere. I write what I know, not what sells. This may sound like a bad business decision, but this is the only time I do not treat writing like a business.
Fortunately for children and also for me, I have many books to share. Here are a few:
Carlo the Mouse—A full series of six books. This series of enchanting books is an entertaining look into the life of a little mouse born inside a hospital’s walls. His insatiable desire for adventure gets him in constant trouble with the exterminator, the head cook, Fidel the cat, and the hospital manager, who becomes his worst nightmare.
Who Is Most Important in the Fridge? Series of three books. These fun rhyming stories introduce young readers to delightful food characters with goofy personalities, real feelings, passions and fears, who always disagree with each other about who will feed a hungry little girl first.
The Mysterious Life Inside a Closet. A humorous story about the mysterious life inside the closet and a curious little kitten, which sneaks inside the closet and causes mayhem.
The Royal Palm. A teaching story about a snobby silver palm, which learns a valuable lesson and the meaning of real friendship.
Runaway Clothes. An instructional story about a little girl who didn’t like to take care of her clothes and toys. In the end, she learns how easy it is to lose something you love.
That Is How Things Are. A beautiful story about friendship between a kitten and a sparrow, and how the little kitten learns about the power of nature.
Good Morning, World! A happy and uplifting story about Baby Thomas and his grandpa. Baby Thomas wants to hug and embrace a beautiful world full of amazing things, but Grandpa takes the world very seriously. They see the same picture, but each takes a different approach.
City Kittens and the Old House Cat. A beautifully illustrated, heartwarming Christmas book about sharing and giving.
The Trees Have Hearts
Runaway Clothes: Coloring and Activity Book for Kids
The Royal Palm: Coloring and Activity Book for Kids
The Little Girl Praying on the Hill (short story)
A Taste of Bread (novella)
Somewhere Between Two Worlds (novel)
Who Let the Cookies Out?
Who Let the Cookies Out?: Coloring and Activity Book for Kids
Baby from the Moon
What Is GOOD and What Is BAD
What Is GOOD and What Is BAD: Coloring and Activity Book for Kids
Who Is Most Important in the Fridge: Coloring Book for Kids
Carlo the Mouse: Coloring Books 1 and 2
The Cat That Wanders by Itself (novel)
Where Did Grandpa Go?
My Grandpa Is a Werecow
To order paperback copies of my published books, please visit
I long for people to see the internal beauty through the eyes of a child. Usually I turn for help to nature when I write. It never refuses to give me the inspiration for the characters I am looking for in my stories. I am fascinated by the wonders of nature, especially with the wind, trees, palms, and all kinds of animals. They are wonderful characters for children. With the help of these characters, children will learn about how things change and behave in nature, and sometimes how they misbehave. Thank you so much for having me on your blog.
Exciting News At Books By Rose
Don’t forget to come to my “Books by Rose” Facebook page on Wednesday, April 06, 2022. (9 am CST) I have some exciting news and plans for you all. I’m very excited!
We are back to tell you about, Toby Williams’s 2nd installment of her mystery series.
You may remember, back in September 2021, we talked about her first book, “The Case of the HIDDEN SHOE.” You can read more about that here.
Click on the cover below.
“The Case of the HIDDEN SHOE”
Interview
Let’s get started for our second interview.
(Author Toby A. Williams, Cover Design by Artist Corrina Holyoake, Edited by Lor Bingham-Calico Editing)
Was it easier to write this second book than your first middle grade book?
Overall, yes. With several characters already developed in Book 1, The Case of the HIDDEN SHOE, plus seeds of Brooke Lynn wanting to get involved in the community, the new supporting friends and family were more easily woven into each scene in Book 2.
About the Book: The Case of the SMASHED WINDOW (The BROOKE LYNN Mysteries – Book 2) by Toby A. Williams – Middle-graders Brooke Lynn and sleuth pal Mike are itching to crack the next case! When a respected neighbor, Mr. Wilkens, asks for their help after spotting some vandals break his window, they begin their new investigation – pronto! But the crime-busting duo are thrown off the trail as tensions arise and Brooke Lynn finds herself questioning everyone – even Mike and her very own BFF Susie! With the town’s hyped-up Chili Cookoff looming, a big cleanup day planned – which Brooke Lynn is helping organize, will they be able to solve the case in time before any further vandalism strikes the once-quiet town? And just like Book 1, this sequel will keep you on your toes… a real page-turner!
When writing this new book, did you have the end all figured out or did it even surprise you?
The original concept for The Case of the SMASHED WINDOW did in fact have another ending. During the rewriting process, an additional incitement was incorporated to punch up the mystery, thus creating suspicion toward some less-than-obvious characters. This new direction ultimately led to a more suspenseful ending. And I am grateful to Lor Bingham of Calico Editing for pushing me when I was stuck; her professional talents were terrific once again!
Do you prefer writing shorter stories or chapter books?
Both genres offer a vast expanse of creativity yet they are completely different in plotting and planning. I have a slight preference to children’s picture books because of the magical compliment offered by the colorful illustrations. But honestly, they are both rewarding in their own way. Stirring any reader’s interest, no matter the level, is so important. Yes, to child literacy!
Tween readers will relate to your story with friendships woes and more. Did you interview or visit with readers this age for ideas for this book?
A couple of pre-teens were consulted for the first book to get a feel for tween lingo, and age-appropriate subject matter which carried over into Book 2. One of the tweens was a beta reader too. The input was enlightening and welcomed!
What is one message you would like to send out to your readers?
Being open-minded, kind, compassionate, and helping others is so important, now more than ever. Like Brooke Lynn, there are opportunities to volunteer in the community via local youth groups, school, church organizations, fundraisers, and team sports. From graffiti paint-over and cleanup days to charitable fundraisers through the various groups I’ve been involved in over the years, the most rewarding aspect has been helping others – no matter how small it may seem.
Thank you so much for this interview, Toby.Please tell our readers where they can find this book and other ones you have written.
Thank you, Rosie for this blog interview. It’s such a kind gesture when a fellow author supports another author in various ways. And I’m glad you are a fan of Brooke Lynn!
My books are available in three formats through online booksellers and at the links below:
I had the honor to do an interview with Dr. Heather Rivera.
About Dr. Heather Rivera:
Heather Rivera, Ph.D. is an Amazon best-selling author. She has written eleven books—fiction, nonfiction, and books for young readers. Heather hosts writing workshops and offers private coaching.
Contact her directly at drheatherrivera@gmail.com for coaching services.
Click on the bookcase below to read our interview and what’s coming soon at, Books by Rose.
Thanks for stopping by. Let us know what you’ve been up to and any exciting plans you’d like to announce.