Where The Butterfly Effect is for adults, The Boy Who Changed the World  has the same message for children. I love the illustrations and the storytelling, ... << MORE >>

I've got a special recommendation for you today.

I found a video to go with this book, so you can get a great preview. The video is at the end of this review.

The Butterfly Effect is based on the idea that everything you do matters. It's kind of the opposite of Don't Sweat the Small Stuff. When we think that we are ineffectual, that nothing we do really matters to anyone, this book gives us something to think about. It describes a few examples when small actions, ... << MORE >>

One of the things I really like about this series (I've read three of them now) is that you don't have to be a horse-loving girl to fall in love with the main character, Andrea Carter. If you do have horse-loving girls (and I've met lots of them!) don't hesitate to recommend the series. But, even if you don't, pick up these books for a girl who is ready for longer chapter books (not too long, though) who likes a good story. I think Susan Marlow does an excellent job of blending character and plot. I prefer plot, ... << MORE >>

I've been meaning to read Lori Scott's Meghan Rose books for a while. I'm glad I finally did! 

Meghan Rose On Stage! is a nice book for early elementary grades. I can just hear a teacher reading this to her class or see her using it in reading groups. Meghan Rose is ... << MORE >>

God's promises for boys by Jack Countryman and Amy Parker, Illustrations by Richard Watson << MORE >>

I spent one day at the Write to Publish Conference in Wheaton, IL. I wish I had the funds to spend the whole week, but I'm going to have to work on that, because it was a good resource. The previous workshops and conferences I've gone to have focused primarily on craft and haven't had many opportunities to shop manuscripts. The next time I go to WTP, I'm going to have some prepared manuscripts. I did make some good contacts, talked one-on-one with a few editors, and got some feedback on a writing idea I haven't fully developed. ... << MORE >>

I got my planner out the other day and started filling in my kids' summer activities (the ones I already know about.)
I had just set my planner aside, when I got a notice that Stephanie Shott had beat me to a great post. Well, it didn't say that exactly, but when I read it, I knew it was true.

Check out Stephanie's post about planning summer memories so you don't miss them.

After I read it, I picked my planner up again and added a few ... << MORE >>

When some of my friends and colleagues read the title to this blog post, I know what they're going to do. First they will either laugh or roll their eyes. Then they'll wonder if I'm going to tell you how to be overcommitted, because I do it so well.

I have to admit. My mind goes something like this: 

"Whew! What a day. . . I can finally relax." 

(Five minutes later)

"I feel guilty. I wonder ... << MORE >>

Busy People's fast & frugal cookbook by Dawn Hall

Did you notice that I changed the title of this blog post? I normally only post recommendations, but I'm afraid this review isn't going to be all positive. Since I agreed to post a review for this book, I'm following through, but I'm not going to recommend you purchase it. Instead, I would encourage you to leaf through it on your own or borrow it first. Maybe it will fit your family better than it did mine.
... << MORE >>

I read the Friday Lutheran Hour Ministries devotion online tonight. ... << MORE >>