Monday, December 19, 2011

Christmas Peace

I feel the warmth within my heart
What a joy this day is bringing
I can hear the voices of outside carolers
They are singing

I feel warmth within my heart
What fun the children are having
Tearing apart the presents
You cant help but be giggling

I feel the warmth within my heart
A manger and a baby salvation is healing
Transformation of hearts
Christmas peace is spreading.

-Written by: Mandy Hunter-


Thursday, December 15, 2011

Book Signing at Lots-a-Books

There is a quaint book store in Cold Lake, Alberta that I just really like. It's called Lots-a-Books!  I can't help but make a purchase every time I visit.  On December 10th I went to do a book signing there. It was really great.  I had a chance to see some new faces, and talk about my book.  I read Bug Crazy to 3 children that came to visit me, and gave them each a book mark.  They seemed pretty happy about that.  Over all it was a nice turn out, and no matter what, I enjoyed being surrounded by that many books. I had a chance to read a couple children's books myself while I had some quiet times. A Robert Munsch book, and of course a Dr. Seuss.  My two fave authors!  Thank you again Lot-a-Books for having me at your store!






Sunday, December 11, 2011

Video-Character Design for Children's Books

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dWxdLNLKJvk

Will Terry is one of those illustrators that capture my attention.  I am learning a lot from some of his videos, and he also offers some online courses that help you work with photoshop to better improve your sketches. Being that there are so many different photoshop programs, Will Terry only provides some techniques and know-how.  The knowledge of the program would have to be something you make yourself aware of. Will Terry has excellent talent and likeability. Enjoy!


Art by Will Terry

Friday, December 9, 2011

Some really cool illustrations:




Here are just a few illustration I found brousing the web.  I like the use of color in all of them.  It is really inspiring.  Reminds me, that I need to take some time this coming week, to sketch. The most happiest of Fridays to you!

Thursday, December 8, 2011

Some children's books I still love to read:

Corduroy: This classic tale of one of the most traditionally beloved toys every child has, a teddy bear, is heartwarming. Corduroy is a little bear who wears green overalls. As he sits and waits for someone to buy him off the store shelf, there is also a little girl who is searching for a special toy to be more than just an ordinary toy; she wants a toy that will also be her friend. When you read the story of Corduroy and his new owner, not only will you be sharing a touching story with your children, but you will also be taken back to yesterday, simpler times, and loving a toy of your own.



The Tale of Peter Rabbit: The beloved story of this little rabbit boy who learns a lesson the hard way will bring you and your children a lot of entertainment, laughs, and a lesson that may last a lifetime. Beatrix Potter has brought to life a family of rabbits, their struggles with the same things every family struggles with, and their determination to love each other even when it isn’t easy. Being entertained is good, but having the addition of important life lessons is even better. This is one story that is sure to become a family favorite and be enjoyed together for many years to come.


The Rainbow Fish: A story with a moral to learn is something to treasure, and this is one such story. These educational stories are very easy to add to the best children’s books of all-time. The rainbow fish happens to be the most beautiful fish in the ocean, and he knows it. His beauty has gone to his head and has even made him become proud and rude to his friends. When his friends all abandon him, he knows that there is something wrong, but can’t imagine what it is. He finds the wise old octopus and asks for some advice. The octopus tells him to share some of his beauty with others, and to begin looking at the beauty that comes from the inside as being what really makes someone beautiful. Though it is shiny and colorful, this is one story that offers more than outer beauty.

the rainbow fish

Green Eggs and Ham: These unforgettable words that stay with you forever. “I am Sam, Sam I am” begins with this amazing tale. Only Dr. Seuss could compose such silly, yet elegant stories, and all with a simple thought. Kids and adults alike have loved and cherished the stories that have become a part of tradition. This is just one such story. With rhythm and rhyme that is easy to follow and a story that makes you want to say, “Just try the green eggs and ham, you may like them Sam I am!”, this is one story that may take you on adventures to read more tales by Dr. Seuss. Reading this book with a child may offer you more than you bargained for, especially when you try to read it faster and faster. An “I Can Read” book, this story for young children only contains fifty words, all of which are easily read and understood.



Wednesday, December 7, 2011

Northpole Games

http://www.northpole.com/Clubhouse/Games/

Here is a cute Christmas website for your kids to enjoy!  They can chat with elves, trim a tree, and so much more! Take a look!



Monday, December 5, 2011

Pay it Forward

What a great time of the year to pay it forward.  Don't forget the people in need.  This may be a worrisome Christmas for them as they try to find their next meal, or a gift for their child (children), etc. If you were blessed with more, don't be selfish this year.  Give.  That is why we are blessed.  It is to ensure that we can spread that blessing to other people.  What is the true spirit of Christmas?  What does it mean to you?  It means a lot to me.  That is why I intend to do everything that I can to help our fellow man.  Joy to the world!



Friday, December 2, 2011

Banana Sour Cream Bread Recipe

Banana Sour Cream Bread Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup white sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 3/4 cup butter
  • 3 cups white sugar
  • 3 eggs
  • 6 very ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1 (16 ounce) container sour cream
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3 teaspoons baking soda
  • 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C). Grease four 7x3 inch loaf pans. In a small bowl, stir together 1/4 cup white sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Dust pans lightly with cinnamon and sugar mixture.
  2. In a large bowl, cream butter and 3 cups sugar. Mix in eggs, mashed bananas, sour cream, vanilla and cinnamon. Mix in salt, baking soda and flour. Stir in nuts. Divide into prepared pans.
  3. Bake for 1 hour, until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
http://www.allrecipes.com/