Happy New Year

 

Wishing you health, wealth and much happiness in

2015!  Thank you for hanging around and continuing to read my blog. I appreciate your loyalty and hope to offer you many reasons to stay reading in the future.  May the new year bring you all your heart's hopes and desires.  God Bless!

               May you have a blessed holiday and very Merry Christmas!  Peace, love, joy and safe holly, jolly festivities to all!

Discovery

As 2014 winds to a close and we embark on a new year, there is much to celebrate and remember in 2014 and prepare and look forward to in 2015.  Enjoy the holidays and time spent with friends and family in the upcoming weeks, get some rest and rejuvenate to hit the road running as January darkens your door. 

I read a quote by Alan Alda (any MASH fans out there?  I used to love watching that show:)) that really put into perspective the mindset I would like to foster moving into the new year...

"You have to leave the city of your comfort and go into the wilderness of your intuition.  What you'll discover will be wonderful.  What you'll discover is yourself."

Wow!  I think this is a beautiful thought for anyone, but I find myself really relating to it as a writer.  Leaving one's comfort zone and writing with intuitive abandon is so hard but, in doing so, one does travel down the road of personal discovery--a road from which so many can profit in reading the books and stories we create.

God Speed and be well.  May you discover all you desire in all areas of your lives.

Breathe

As I continue through this holiday season and my mission to balance all facets of life amidst the chaos (don't get me wrong...chaos implies something negative though my chaos centers on all good things, just lots of them), I thought this would be very appropriate to share with all of you as I'm sure you are in similar head swirling, holiday frenetic craziness...

"I will breathe,
I will think of solutions.
I will not let my worry control me.
I will not let my stress break me.
I. Will. Simply breathe.
And it will be okay...
Because I don't quit."  Shayne McClendon, The Good Girl

So, take a deep breath, center and forge ahead one thing at a time, moment by moment, and you shall prevail!

Balance

What, exactly, does the word "balance" mean?  Webster defines it as..."to bring into harmony or proportion."  Balance can be thought of in many different areas of life.  The one that is typically foremost in my mind is striving for balance, harmony per se, in my life as a whole.  The ability to balance family life, work life, church life and writing life.  I seem to be in constant upheaval in this quest and often read of others, many others, who have similar issues.

This morning, in my mission to balance my day, I rose early for an exercise class so I would have that part of my day finished and would be able to focus on the rest:  groceries (family life as I have kids complaining we have no food), Mass with my son (church life), paperwork for an upcoming meeting (work life) and blogging and working on my current WIP (writing life).

As I sat spinning my wheels (literally as I went to a cycling class), I was thinking of that ever elusive idea of balance and decided that would be the focus of my blogging this month as balance is hard to come by on good days and nearly impossible in the height of the holiday season.  My posts will be short and sweet in an ongoing effort to balance my time, but I hope you can gain some insight from the words and thoughts I post.

The first words of wisdom I found to bring about my sense of "harmony or proportion" in life are these...

"When you are in harmony with yourself everything unfolds with grace and ease."  Panach Desai

Very true, very true!  So, then, how does one get in harmony with oneself?  Therein lies the issue, does it not?  For me anyway.  It is often easy to "know" what one should do or what one needs to accomplish but how to do it? How to fit it all in in a given day? 

I had a major aha moment when I read the following words which I cannot attribute to anyone as there was no name associated. Drum roll please...

It's not about "having" time.  It's about MAKING time.

Well, yes, ma'am, it sure is.  No one has all the time he/she would like.  It is what one does with the time one carves out of the day that matters.  If writing is what will put your world in balance, then write.  If doing the dishes or laundry will calm the craziness, then so be it.  Or if, like me, you feel some good old fashion snuggle up time with the kids watching Christmas movies will bring some peace and harmony to your world, do it and don't feel guilty.  There will be another time to be more "productive."  Make the time to do what is needed for YOU and let the rest be for the time being.  You can tackle the dishes, laundry, writing, shopping, wrapping, etc., later.  It will still be there, and you will, most likely, be more efficient and less frazzled.

If you have wonderful ways to find and keep the balance in your life or strategies for making time when there doesn't seem to be any, I'd love to hear them.

Happy Thanksgiving

As we give thanks and cherish the blessings in our lives today, I wanted to share a prayer I found with all of you as I wish you a very happy and blessed Thanksgiving holiday.  Be well and safe in your travels should you have to leave home.

Thanksgiving

For each new morning with its light,
For rest and shelter of the night,
For health and food,
For love and friends,
For everything Thy goodness sends.

- Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803-1882)

Contest Deadline Extended

Attention all children's writers, you still have time to submit to the Institute for Children's Literature's Kindergarten Story Writing Contest.  The deadline has been extended to November 21.  Find all the details here...

https://www.writersbookstore.com/sc/wbs_contest.htm

Get busy, folks, and submit!

Happy Veteran's Day

Today as we remember and thank all who give for us, I ask you to read the words of Ronald Reagan as he said it so well...

“Those who live today remember those who do not. Those who know freedom remember today those who gave up life for freedom.

 

Today, in honor of the dead, we conduct ceremonies. We lay wreaths. We speak words of tribute. And in our memories, in our hearts, we hold them close to us still. Yet we also know, even as their families knew when they last looked upon them, that they can never be fully ours again, that they belong now to God and to that for which they so selflessly made a final and eternal act of devotion.

 

We could not forget them. Even if they were not our own, we could not forget them. For all time, they are what we can only aspire to be: giving, unselfish, the epitome of human love -- to lay down one's life so that others might live.

 

We think on their lives. We think on their final moments. In our mind's eye, we see young Americans in a European forest or on an Asian island or at sea or in aerial combat.

 

And as life expired, we know that those who could had last thoughts of us and of their love for us. As they thought of us then, so, too, we think of them now, with love, with devotion, and with faith: the certainty that what they died for was worthy of their sacrifice -- faith, too, in God and in the Nation that has pledged itself to His work and to the dream of human freedom, and a nation, too, that today and always pledges itself to their eternal memory.

 

Thank you. God bless you.

 

- Ronald Reagan, 40th President of the United States (1981–1989), delivered at the Veterans Day National Ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia, November 11, 1988.

Choices

I was reading posts on Facebook this morning looking for something someone told me about and saw the following quote a friend shared.  It seemed so true of not only life in general but of writing specifically as we, as writers, often feel the need to get out of our comfort zone, so to speak.  The quote was shared from Toby Mac but was attributed to Abraham Maslow...

"in any given moment we have two options:  to step forward into growth or to step back into safety."

Wow!  This is so true of so many things and something I strive to help my kids learn as I am not always the best at it.  I know I produce much better writing when I take a risk and push beyond what is comfortable though it can be very difficult and scary to do so.  The same goes for life...one must have a passion (or multiple passions) that help create and define who he/she is in this world and strive to always be the best one can be at whatever those passions may be rather than taking the easy and/or comfortable way out. 

Do you have a difficult time taking a risk or pushing forward rather than falling back into the safe or comfortable thing to do?  I'd love to hear what works for you if you are inclined to share.

Happy Halloween and All Saints Day!  Enjoy the weekend and all the trick or treating ghosts and goblins tonight.  Stay safe and warm!

Value of Life

I was trying to get organized for the week this morning, and a quote in my writer's calendar struck me.  We think so much about all the stuff going on around us as a detractor to being successful at writing, or at least at finding the time to try to be.  However, David Brin says this...

"If you have other things in your life--family, friends, good productive day work--then these can interact with your writing and the sum will be all the richer."

Well now, what a novel idea!  It is all the sum parts of our lives that come together and give fodder for our writing and enrich it in ways beyond what would be without it.  So, then, the question becomes...how does one use the sum parts of our lives and not let them be a distraction to our writing time? 

I, for one, would love to hear how it works for you as it is a never ending challenge for me!

Renewal

Well, it seems as if my return to blogging post my summer hiatus with kids has been just as sporadic as it was during those family focused months.  For a variety of reasons, life has been chaotic as always to which I'm sure most of you can relate.  I have used what little time I've had to actually write and, therefore, things like blogging have gone by the wayside.  I didn't realize quite how long it had been until I logged on this morning which re-affirmed my commitment to get back to posting more consistently.

In an effort to get the creative juices flowing so to speak, I pulled out Anne Lamott's Bird by Bird to re-read as it has been a very long time.  In the first chapter alone, so much spoke to me but, most importantly, was her discussion about the importance of books.  She says...

"...books are as important as almost anything else on earth.  What a miracle it is that out of these small, flat, rigid squares of paper unfolds world after world after world, worlds that sing to you, comfort and quiet or excite you."

Wow, is that not what we hope, as writers, to create for our readers?  I've always had a love of books, particularly hard cover books though I've caved on that a bit as of late.  Not only can it be an expensive habit but also one of space constraint.  My friends jest about checking out books from my library which isn't too far off; however, I am sorely out of space to add to my collection. 

As a writer, I have a burning desire to create a world, a home away from home, for my reader--an exciting place to go without the rigors of the "real world."  A place to just be and get lost in the pages of a terrific story, whether a short picture book or a longer novel.  It is what I search out and want to find when I read and what I strive to create for my reader.

How about you?  What books do you love to read?  As a writer, do you have aha moments you know will lead you to writing "that" book your reader won't want to put down? 

I'd love to hear from you if you are so inclined.

October 2014 Guardian Angel Kids eZine

Come read all about Aussie Animals in the newest issue of Guardian Angel Kids.  It is full of great stories and info.  Find it here...

http://www.guardian-angel-kids.com/

Institute of Children's Literature Contest

The Institute of Children's Literature has a new Kindergarten Story Contest.  Find all details here...

https://www.writersbookstore.com/sc/wbs_contest.htm

Good Bye

I was struggling this morning to come up with something relevant and meaningful to post.  My brain is having a hard time focusing through the sadness.  I turned to my book of quotes and inspirational sayings hoping for some inspiration and turned to the following.  It seemed fitting today...

God hath not promised skies always blue,
     flower-strewn pathways all our lives through;
God hath not promised sun without rain,
     day without sorrow, peace without pain.

But God hath promised strength for the day,
     rest for the labor, light for the way,
Grace for the trials, help from above,
     unfailing sympathy, undying love...

RIP Tanna and may God's peace and strength be wrapped around you, Kingsburys.  Tanna was truly the most special and courageous young woman I had the privilege to know.  She left this world far too early and will be greatly missed.  Heaven has acquired a truly remarkable angel!

September 2014 Guardian Angel Kids

Here it is folks...the newest issue of Guardian Angel Kids eZine.  Check it out...

http://www.guardian-angel-kids.com/

It is a great issue all about celebrating "Extraordinary Animals."

Happy Labor Day

On this Labor Day, rest, relax, rejuvenate and enjoy!

Thank you to all who labor to make our life what it is today.  Be well!

New Start

Well, the new school year is upon us and, therefore, so is the start of work for me.  The weather has also cooled a bit which is always good for me and my ability to focus and create.  I'm not sure why, but Fall always seems to re-energize me in many ways.  Having said that, it also brings a new sense of stress in terms of the never-ending need to balance all--work, family, household needs and sporting activities with a little bit of writing sprinkled in. 

I've had new ideas popping all day but haven't done a great job of sitting down to write.  Consequently, I have little scraps of paper with words written in all directions strewn across my desk.  I'm not going to stress about this (at least I captured the ideas and put pen to paper somewhat) in my new mission to take baby steps in creating mini habits (see Kristi Holl's blog at http://kristiholl.net/writers-blog/ for more information on Mini Habits--as well as a tremendous amount of terrific advice and information). 

I am a strong believer in persistence pays and am going to make a concerted effort to just keep plugging away and being realistic in my goals so as to avoid my usual "I can't possibly get it all done" so spin my wheels and end up procrastinating and accomplishing very little.  I will go the distance and carry on!  As Winston Churchill said,

"Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts."

The Story of a Writer: How to Change the World as a Children's Book Write...

The Story of a Writer: How to Change the World as a Children's Book Write...: Friday Fun As writers for children and teens and even for adults, we can bring fun and excitement into the lives of our readers. Here&#39...

Guest Article

I am delighted to share my visit with Chris Graham at The Story Reading Ape.  Please find my article and feature of Bedtime Kisses here:

http://thestoryreadingapeblog.com/2014/08/15/meet-guest-childrens-author-karin-larson/

You can read more about Chris on his blog at:  http://thestoryreadingapeblog.com/

Thanks so much, Chris.  I appreciate your time!

Hiatus

Hello All,

I just wanted to ask you to bear with me a bit over the next month as my posting may be a bit intermittent.  We are just shy of one month from the start of the new school year (and, therefore, the start of work for me), so I plan to focus on the kids and doing some fun activities for the time we have left now that summer activities are winding down and before the start of the fall sports season.  I am feeling the need for a bit of a mental health break from the chaos of balancing all.

Thanks, in advance, for your patience and enjoy what is left of your summer break as well.

Stitch Says Book Review: Bedtime Kisses #childrensbook

The other day, I posted about my interview with Ashley Howland and Stitch.  Today's post is her book review to go with that interview.  Please read her review at:

http://ahowland.org/wordpress/?p=2109#comment-3542

Thanks so much, Ashley and Stitch! 

Again, you can learn more about Ashley at http://ahowland.org/wordpress/. 

Stitch Says Author Interview: Karin Larson #childrensauthor

I'm excited to share my author interview by Ashley Howland on her Stitch Says blog.  Please head over and visit at: 

http://ahowland.org/wordpress/?p=2106#comment-3415.

You can learn more about Ashley and Stitch at http://ahowland.org/wordpress/.

Thank you, Ashley!  I appreciate your time.

Book Review

Thank you, Emily Lewis, for taking the time to review Bedtime Kisses.  I appreciate your efforts and kind words. 

Please read Emily's review at:
 

http://mrsmommybooknerd.blogspot.com/2014/07/childrens-review-round-up.html

You can also learn more about Emily at:

· Email: mrsmommybooknerdsbookreviews@gmail.com

· Blog: http://mrsmommybooknerd.blogspot.com

· Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/MrsMommyBooknerd

· Twitter: @mommybooknerd

· Pinterest:  http://pinterest.com/mommybooknerd/

Book Review

I hope you all enjoyed your 4th of July holiday!

I am excited to share another wonderful review of Bedtime Kisses.  Thank you, Benu, for your time and kind words.  I greatly appreciate it!

Please find Benu's review and learn more about Benu Bali and Zealot Readers at:

http://zealotreaders.blogspot.com/2014/07/bedtime-kisses-by-karin-larson.html?showComment=1404579252126#c3198493288568513265

Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

Celebrate

Happy Independence Day to all!

May this 4th of July bring peace and celebration as we honor those who have fought, and continue to fight, for our independence and country.  Thank you!  I am forever grateful for the freedoms we have in this great land and appreciate all those who fight to keep it so.  As Ronald Reagan said, "If we ever forget that we are One Nation Under God, then we will be a nation gone under."




Per Joe Barton, "Our flag honors those who have fought to protect it, and is a reminder of the sacrifice of our nation's founders and heroes.  As the ultimate icon of America's storied history, the Stars and Stripes represents the very best of this nation."

 

Stay safe and be well!

 

 

Book Review for Bedtime Kisses

Thank you, Chris Graham, for taking the time to review Bedtime Kisses.  I appreciate your kind words and lovely review.

Please find the review on Amazon (http://www.amazon.com/review/R1J9561RISTOES/ref=cm_cr_dp_title?ie=UTF8&ASIN=1940310156&channel=detail-glance&nodeID=283155&store=books) and Goodreads (https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/983142343?book_show_action=true&page=1).

You can find more info on Chris at http://thestoryreadingapeblog.com/

Bedtime Kisses Book Review

Unique bed time counting story, June 13, 2014

By 

Donna M. McDine - See all my reviews

This review is from: Bedtime Kisses (Paperback)

Karin Larson’s debut children’s book is sure to delight your young muses from the onset. The whimsical connection many toddlers have with their stuffed animals is endearing to not only themselves, but to the adults in their lives. The simplicity of loving their stuffed animals as if they are real pulls at the heartstrings. Come along for a unique bedtime counting ritual that will soon become a classic routine in your home.

The illustrations by Ginger Nielson provided a rich backdrop to Larson’s clever counting story.

My Review of Magical Matthew, Written by Penelope Anne Cole and Illustrated by Kevin Collier

5 Stars for Magical Matthew

Magical Matthew, by Penelope Anne Cole, is a darling story especially suited for kids ages 4-9. Most kids (and some adults like me) wish for magical powers, so Matthew will certainly resonate with many. Matthew uses his magic for good by fixing things. He keeps his gift a secret, until he feels he can't, and shows with his actions how helping others and doing good deeds brings a sense of accomplishment and gratitude. What a great lesson for all! Magical Matthew also demonstrates the strong bonds of friendship and the value it has in the lives of children. Kevin Collier's illustrations are terrific and really enhance the reader's experience. I highly recommend Magical Matthew. It will not disappoint kids, parents and teachers alike.

http://www.amazon.com/review/R2RE9UD0S69DGB

My Review of Magical Mea, written by Penelope Anne Cole and Illustrated by Kevin Collier

5 Stars for a delightful read!

Magical Mea, written by Penelope Anne Cole and illustrated by Kevin Collier, is an enchanting sequel to Ms. Cole's Magical Matthew. Mea is Matthew's younger sister who has her own brand of magic. Unlike her brother who used his magic for good, Mea is a trickster with her magic and has to learn it is better to help people than play tricks on them. Mea is a prankster kids can easily relate to as all kids want recognition of some sort. Mea likes that she "gets praise for being a good finder" after she deliberately hides the items she then "finds." As with most children, life lessons are a better teaching tool than anything told or intentionally preached to them. Ms. Cole does this perfectly in her books. Magical Mea demonstrates it always feels better to earn attention and praise for doing good than negative attention for doing wrong. It is a fun story kids can learn from and parents can appreciate the lesson learned. Mr. Collier's illustrations are incredible and really bring Mea and Matthew to life. I highly recommend this darling book. Your kids will learn from and love Mea and her adventures.

http://www.amazon.com/review/RKN1MBUUG6OL7

Congrats to all authors, illustrators and those behind the scenes in putting together this incredible new issue!

 

 

Guardian Angel Kids

An online Magazine for Kids

JUNE 2014 Special Kids

http://www.guardian-angel-kids.com

 

 

Special Features

Sarah’s Socks- My World of Autism

written by Litsa Kamateros Nia Morfonios

Special Olympics Skater Video

 

Features

POEM

Super Power by Demarquis Lamar Johnson

FICTION SHORT STORIES

Happy Trails by Trisha Faye

Darcy’s Decision by Annette McDermott

Priscilla take the Stage by Catherine May Webb

NON-FICTION ARTICLE

Sports Buddies by Donna M. McDine

PARENT TEACHER

Extraordinary Kids: Nurturing Your Child with Special Needs by Irene S. Roth

What Does a Special Needs Kid Need? by Shari L Klase

For Your Reading Pleasure...

Guardian Angel Announces MAY 2014 Releases

 

Inside a Snail Shell 

Academic Wings 

http://www.guardianangelpublishing.com/snail-shell.htm

Author-JennaKay Francis, Illustrator-Jillian Crider

Have you ever wondered what’s inside a snail’s shell? A jaunty story in rhyme. Educational pages, too.

 

Never Say Boo to a Frilly with Rainbow Birds & Tasmanian Devil Dance 

Academic Wings

http://www.guardianangelpublishing.com/never-say-boo.htm

Author- Margot Finke, illustrator-Aysin Eroglu

When an Aussie Tasmanian Devil, Rainbow Birds and a Frillneck Lizard find themselves inside the same rhyming book, watch out for educational FUN. 

 

Once Upon an Eyeball - How the Nose Knows Roses The Sum of our Parts Series  

http://www.guardianangelpublishing.com/eye-nose-tsoop.htm

Academic Wings

Author Bill Kirk, Illustrator- Eugene Ruble

This book is a bonus set of two anatomical rhymes in one book, describing the basic structures and functions of the eye and the nose in a way that is easy to understand. 

 

Robbie and Katie get a Hairy Scare 

Health& Hygiene

http://www.guardianangelpublishing.com/robbie-katie.htm

Author Lea Schizas, Illustrator Eugene Ruble

Watching the stylist cut their oldest sister’s hair, the twins giggle until the receptionist says, “Hair is DEAD.” Big mistake! 

Rest in Peace Maya Angelou

There are very few as profound as was Maya Angelou.  Here are some of her best quotes.

http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation-now/2014/05/28/maya-angelou-quotes/9663257/

God Bless America

 As we pause today to give thanks and remember, I am grateful to all who have and continue to serve.  Stay safe and be well. 

Penelope Anne Cole: My Review of "Bedtime Kisses" by Karin Larson Illu...

Penelope Anne Cole: My Review of "Bedtime Kisses" by Karin Larson Illu...: Bedtime Kisses , by Karin Larson, illustrated by Ginger Nielson, is a cute counting story especially suited to help little ones get rea...

I read a wonderful quote in my writer's calendar this morning.  It speaks to what draws me as both a writer and reader.  Gustave Flaubert says...

"It's a delicious thing to write.  To be no longer yourself but to move in an entire universe of your own creating."

I was an avid reader as a child (and still am) and loved being pulled into the world created by whatever book I was reading at the time.  It lit a fire in me to strive to create similar excitement in kids reading my own books one day.  There is nothing quite like entering a whole new world when opening a book and turning to the first page.  I still love that feeling and know I always will.

While my books thus far are children's picture books (book signing for the first tomorrow--WOO HOO!), I hope to foster excitement in both the kids and parents reading to them as they turn the page, and someday for the older readers in the chapter books floating around in my head begging to be written.

How do you go about creating your new universe for the reader?

Without further ado...

The May issue of Guardian Angel Kids eZine is available for your viewing pleasure.

http://www.Guardian-Angel-Kids.com

  SPECIAL FEATURES

Feather Art GAK reporting

Elephant Paints Video

 

POEM

Patchwork Art by Debra Mayhew

 

FICTION SHORT STORIES

Maya, the Elephant Who Loved to Paint by Shari L Klase

 

NON-FICTION ARTICLE

Trash No More by Trisha Faye

The Oldest Art in the World by Donna Marie West

 

ACTIVITY

Leaf it to me by Trisha Faye

Book Release

 

 

I am so excited to announce my picture book, Bedtime Kisses, is now available for purchase at 4RV Publishing.  You can find it here:  http://www.4rvpublishingcatalog.com/karin-larson.php.

Thank you to Vivian, Aidana, Marsha and Harry for your hard work and belief in Bedtime Kisses and to Ginger for bringing my story to life with such wonderful illustrations!  I thank you all!

Book Trailer

I am so excited to announce the book trailer for my children's picture book, Bedtime Kisses, has been completed. 

You can see the wonderful illustrations by Ginger Nielson and view it here:

http://youtu.be/3Ga5i-L9MKA

Feel free to share your thoughts.  Thanks, in advance, for your time.

Voice

Cecil Murphey continues to speak to me in UNLEASH THE WRITER WITHIN.  The chapters I read today were discussing honoring one's voice and staying true to it. 

Murphey suggests, "each of us has a distinct tone and manner of speaking or writing."  He talks of an experiment he did with readers at a conference whereby he had attendees read paragraphs aloud and try to determine which he wrote.  All guessed correctly which affirmed the importance that, "your voice is your voice."  I found this an interesting experiment.  Do you think others would be able to find consistency in your writing when read aloud? To hear your voice in all of your work?  I'm not sure I am truly honoring my "voice" that consistently yet.

Murphey further suggests too many writers feel they need to imitate others rather than honoring their own voice.  I found myself thinking of this...as writers, we want to touch others, to speak to their hearts, make them want to keep reading our work and know our voice.  How does one do this? According to Murphey, it is by, "writing with your true voice...write with honesty, vulnerability, and with risk."  This can't be taught, he goes on to say.  We, as writers, must listen and work to hear our inner voice and then use it in our writing.  For, "the true voice is the heart of good writing.  It's more than techniques or the ability to write in more than one genre.  It's the ability to accept your voice as valuable and to use it." 

I believe finding one's voice as valuable is crucial to this equation.  It is in finding value and taking the risk to share that value with others that allows us to celebrate our voice and let it speak to other's in our writing.

I'd love to hear your thoughts and ideas on honoring one's voice if you are inclined to share!

Happy Easter

I will return after the long holiday weekend with new posts.  But, in the meantime, may you all have a blessed and happy Easter!

Cover Release

I am beyond excited to announce my first picture book, Bedtime Kisses, will be released soon by 4RV Publishing.  Thank you to all at 4RV and the very talented Ginger Nielson for bringing my story to life.

April 2014 Guardian Angel Kids eZine

http://www.guardian-angel-kids.com/apr014.htm

Special Features

 

Flowers of the World

Reported by GAK, our very own Angel Gecko

                                                                     

Features

 

POEM

Predatory Petals by A.J. Huffman

Shades of Exaltation by A.J. Huffman

 

FICTION SHORT STORIES

A Flower Expedition by Joyce Wold

Coming Up Roses by Felicity Nisbet

 

NON-FICTION ARTICLE

Flowers that Grow on Volcanoes by Sherry Alexander

The Legend of the “Cry in Your Sleep” Flower-A Retelling of the Legend of Tagimoucia, Fiji’s National Flower by Sherri Alexandaer

 

ACTIVITY

Flower Girls Word Puzzle

 

 

 

New Releases from Guardian Angel Publishing

Guardian Angel Publishing

March 2014 Releases

 

ANCIENT SYMBOLS, ARTWORK, CARVINGS AND ALPHABETS Bk 2 

Academic Wings Author & Illustrator Eugene Ruble

http://www.guardianangelpublishing.com/symbology2.htm

Book Two—Join Professor Hoot as he explores more ancient arts and artifacts. The art, tools, and text represent various cultures and development from ancient eras, including fossils, too.

 

Lana Tries Yoga  

Health & Hygiene Author & Illustrator Roey Ebert Hardcover Softcover 

http://www.guardianangelpublishing.com/lana-yoga.htm

Follow Lana as she tries to capture the sunlight when it journeys to the 4 corners of the earth. The story centered yoga routine is simple for children to remember and fun for children to reenact. 

 

Lily and the Return to Htrae

Wings of Faith Author Lindsay Bonilla; Illustrator Alexander Morris

http://www.guardianangelpublishing.com/return-to-htrae.htm

Lily returns to the darkness of Htrae to take the King’s message from the City of Light. Even though she doesn’t think she can fulfill this mission, with the help of Ruah she embarks on the difficult task of inviting others to the great forgotten city.

 

Real Mysterious Easter Eggs

Academic Wings

Author: Patricia Karwatowicz, Illustrator: Kathleen Bullock

http://www.guardianangelpublishing.com/mysterious-eggs.htm

Noah and Isabela take a journey in Great Grandmother’s kitchen to discover the Easter story by coloring eggs Grandmother’s “old-timey-way.” Color meanings help them learn more about who Jesus is and who they are.

 

Rip the night engine: The Rolling Along Train Series Book 1

Littlest Angels Author Melanie Lutes, Illustrator Eugene Ruble

http://www.guardianangelpublishing.com/rip.htm

Rip, the night engine, constantly worries about his passenger’s comfort on overnight train rides. He knows bench seating is not comfortable for sleeping. His cars are redesigned as Pullman Palace cars equipped with sleeping compartments. He finally lives up to his name that means Rest In Pillows.

 

There's a Lion in the House

Animals & Pets Author Mary Esparza-Vela, Illustrator Jack Foster

http://www.guardianangelpublishing.com/lion-house.htm

A young rabbit loves to tease his older brothers. He goes off into the woods by himself and boasts that he’s not afraid of anything. One night, he hears a lion roar in the house.  He tells his brothers, but they ignore him

 

Quotes

I was looking through my writing calendar (A Writer's Year:  Managing Your Time in 2014) to see what I have and have not accomplished in the past few weeks and started reading some of the quotes (yes, again procrastinating a bit but, what the heck, the quotes are there to read, right?!!). 

The first I noticed speaks to my post last week about writing without waiting for a muse or bolt of inspiration.  William Faulkner says, "Get it down.  Take chances.  It may be bad, but it's the only way you can do anything really good."

Well, that just seems to be the epitome of a "duh" moment, does it not?  There are often so many fears which prevent us from writing, but, if we don't, we can't get better, won't have anything to submit and, therefore, will not have any chance of publication.  So write, take the risk...perseverance pays!

The other quote that spoke to me this morning is along a similar line.  EL Doctorow says...

"Writing a novel is like driving a car at night.  You can only see as far as your headlights, but you can make the whole trip that way."

I love this comparison.   It's like that old saying...put one foot in front of the other.  One just needs to keep moving forward one line at a time, paragraph by paragraph and soon...viola...a book is born (or story or article for that matter).  Focus on the here and now (what is within your headlight zone), and it will lead to the final destination whatever that may be. 

I would love to hear about the process of your writing journey if you feel inclined to share.

Thoughts on Writing

Long ago, I started reading Cecil Murphey's UNLEASH THE WRITER WITHIN but haven't gotten back to it in some time.  I picked it up this morning to read a few chapters while I sat in the massage chair and found several worthy tidbits to share. 

I find I identify with Mr. Murphey's writing style easily and much of his wisdom speaks to my heart.  His conversational tone and commonsense approach are quite relatable.  In what I read this morning, there were many words of wisdom.  For example...

"It's much easier to edit a page of writing than it is to edit a blank screen."  He encourages the reader to write first from the heart ("creatively") and "second from the head" so the writer can "edit analytically" thereafter.  Well, that seems commonsense though can be quite difficult for some.  I read all the time of writers who find it easier to edit as they go.  I cannot.  It is much easier for me to write first (though it is typically a blank pad of paper rather than screen) and then go back to edit and re-write.  How about you?

Murphey talks about being true to oneself and unafraid in one's chosen risks in writing honestly, simply and transparent.  He says, "I would rather be disliked for who I am than to be admired for who I'm not."  I found this so true as I think many of us, as writers, face those fears of "Is it good enough? Will others want to read it? What if I can't find a home for it? Is it too honest? Too bold? Too this? Too that?"  One can't hide from feelings but needs to write from the heart to really make a reader feel something and want to continue reading. 

Murphey also discusses the fact that writers, write.  Always, without waiting for inspiration.  While inspiration is welcome, one cannot depend on it as, "to write only when you're inspired devalues the craft and defies your need to learn and improve."  He talks about the feeling that we, as writers, shouldn't feel we are unable to write without inspiration or some outside force.  We need to rely on our skill and abilities, our effort and fortitude as writers for, "if you work at your craft and write regularly, you develop whatever talent you have.  The more you use what you have, the greater your improvement." 

This is so true of all things.  Take a professional or Olympic athlete, for example.  He/she doesn't wait to "feel like" training; he/she just does so.  It is part of who she is, part of what defines her.  Thus, we write...because that is who we are and what defines us. 

Emotion

A recent issue of Writers Digest contained a Robert Frost quote which spoke to both the reader and writer in me.  Frost said:

"No tears in the writer, no tears in the reader.  No surprise in the writer, no surprise in the reader."

How true those words!  I think of my favorite books, many of which I love because they spoke to my heart, which made me identify with the characters and enter a world totally separate from my own.  That is ultimately what led me to want to write--that desire, no need, to create a world in which the reader could submerge as I loved to, away from reality, and bring to life a whole different world for someone.  I love the feeling of wanting to come to the conclusion of a book to see how it ends but being sad to do so and leave the world in which I was living during the length of the book.  I hope and strive to one day create that feeling in others, to make them not want to put my book down, to escape reality and remain in the world of my book.  If I can dig deep and invoke the tears, surprise, joy, etc., in myself as I write, I can offer it to others as they read.  What a true accomplishment that will be!

Do you have a particular book which elicited strong feelings in you? I'd love to hear about it as well as what drives you to write.

Better late than never...

Visit award-winning children's author, Donna McDine, on her blog tour for her newest book, A Sandy Grave.  You won't be disappointed!

 

 

A SANDY GRAVE TOUR SCHEDULE

Monday, March 3

Book trailer reveal at If Books Could Talk

 

Tuesday, March 4

Interview at As the Pages Turn

 

Wednesday, March 5

Guest post at My Sister Is My Best Friend

 

Friday, March 7

Book review at The Children’s and Teens’ Book Connection

 

Monday, March 10

Guest post at Literarily Speaking

 

Tuesday, March 11

Book featured at The Writer’s Life

 

Wednesday, March 12

Interview at Rebecca’s Writing Services

 

Thursday, March 13

Book review at Rebecca’s Writing Services

Book review at Farm and Fru Fru

 

Monday, March 17

Book feature and giveaway at My Sister Is My Best Friend

 

Wednesday, March 19

Interview at Straight from the Author’s Mouth

 

Friday, March 21

First chapter reveal at Read My First Chapter

 

Monday, March 24

Book feature at Between the Covers

 

Tuesday, March 25

Book feature and giveaway at The Busy Mom’s Daily

 

Wednesday, March 26

Interview at Nancy Stewart’s Books

Guest post at Mayra’s Secret Bookcase

 

 

Thursday, March 27

Book review at My Devotional Thoughts

 

Friday, March 28

Interview and giveaway at PUYB Virtual Book Club

 

Tuesday, April 1

Guest post at Strands of Thought

Wednesday, April 2

Guest post at Lori’s Reading Corner

Thursday, April 3

Character interview at Beyond the Books

Book trailer reveal at A Leisure Moment

Friday, April 4

Book review at A Leisure Moment

Monday, April 7

Book review at Blooming with Books

Tuesday, April 8

Interview at Blooming with Books

Wednesday, April 9

Book feature at 4 the Love of Books

Thursday, April 10

Guest post at The Story Behind the Book

Friday, April 11

Book review at Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers

Monday, April 14

Book trailer reveal at 4 the Love of Books

Wednesday, April 16

Book feature and giveaway at Blooming with Books

Thursday, April 17

Book review at Mary’s Cup of Tea

Friday, April 18

Book review at By the Book

Monday, April 21

Book feature at Plug Your Book!

Wednesday, April 23

Book review at 4 the Love of Books

Book review at Mymcbooks’s Blog

Thursday, April 24

Book review at WV Stitcher

Friday, April 25

Book tour highlights at The Book Rack

 

A Sandy Grave ~ January 2014 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

 

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Hockey Agony ~ January 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist 

 

Website: www.donnamcdine.com

 

Blog: www.donna-mcdine.blogspot.com