tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19781816981266758382024-03-13T13:52:10.508-06:00Michelle TeacressMTeacresshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00381461599028233499noreply@blogger.comBlogger50125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1978181698126675838.post-45633852888296495602012-11-23T22:29:00.003-07:002012-11-23T22:29:53.819-07:00<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Visit my new site:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://mteacress.blogspot.com/">The Nude Goose</a></span></div>
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MTeacresshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00381461599028233499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1978181698126675838.post-6512721044248804992012-08-30T12:43:00.001-06:002012-11-16T15:40:34.360-07:00This Isn't Really...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DQLi8WFbIhk/UD-wbNldKQI/AAAAAAAACFU/uqlsp33td38/s1600/Goodbye" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fea="true" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DQLi8WFbIhk/UD-wbNldKQI/AAAAAAAACFU/uqlsp33td38/s320/Goodbye" width="320" /></a></div>
After blogging for almost three years, I'm heading a different direction. I'm thankful for the information I've learned about literature and publishing from other bloggers and wish you all the best!<br />
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Though much of my blog has been deleted, you can still find some of the most popular posts.<br />
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In the mean time, I'll be on <a href="http://twitter.com/MTeacress" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Michelle-Teacress/322839841123493" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="http://pinterest.com/mteacress/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>, and <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/3235302-michelle-teacress" target="_blank">Goodreads</a>.MTeacresshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00381461599028233499noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1978181698126675838.post-89622927452294007112012-07-25T01:00:00.000-06:002012-07-25T10:03:24.331-06:00A Pessimist's Guide to Optimism VI<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zPy1I7FjpWY/T-tbrr-U7kI/AAAAAAAAB_8/Jmzl8H0-6Bo/s1600/Salt" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zPy1I7FjpWY/T-tbrr-U7kI/AAAAAAAAB_8/Jmzl8H0-6Bo/s200/Salt" vca="true" width="200" /></a></div>
I do not make a regular practice of tossing salt, but since "...the most common contemprary belief requires you to toss a pinch of spilt salt over your left shoulder, into the face of the devil..." <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spilling_salt" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">(wiki)</span></a> who lurked there, I will compare the salt to a good dash of realism.<br />
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What's honey-roasted without nuts? Sweet without sour? A dash of salt keeps flavor on an even keel, just as a dash of realism keeps an optimistic scale in balance. <br />
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Do you dare to call yourself an optimist now that your've been practicing for months? Now that there's been no sign of the devil on your shoulder for days, if not weeks? Try it. Shout it! Even whispering it is okay.<br />
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*clapping* *cheering* *whisteling* *throwing flowers*<br />
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PS Scroll down to celebrate with me...I jumped into the query pool and I'm celebrating with a giveaway!MTeacresshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00381461599028233499noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1978181698126675838.post-88631149605959742022012-07-04T01:00:00.000-06:002012-07-04T01:00:04.664-06:00Looks Like a Book VI'd like to go hog wild with book <a href="http://michelleteacress.blogspot.com/2012/05/looks-like-book-iv.html" target="_blank">chairs</a>, book <a href="http://michelleteacress.blogspot.com/2012/02/looks-like-book-ii.html" target="_blank">jewelry</a>, book <a href="http://michelleteacress.blogspot.com/2012/03/looks-like-book-iii.html" target="_blank">hats</a>, book<a href="http://michelleteacress.blogspot.com/2012/01/looks-like-book.html" target="_blank"> art</a>, and a book <a href="http://michelleteacress.blogspot.com/2011/08/co-op-chicks.html" target="_blank">purse</a> to top it all off - but I'm concerned I'd scare my neighbors. So I can only imagine what it would be like to live in a cottage with decor like this... <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://boards.weddingbee.com/topic/wreath-made-out-of-book-pages" target="_blank">(credit)</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.allfreeholidaycrafts.com/Fall-Decorations/Fall-Shapes-Book-Decor#" target="_blank">(credit)</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://waterstchic.storenvy.com/collections/76354-book-decor" target="_blank">(credit)</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://encorehomestagingredesign.blogspot.com/2010/10/redesigning-your-home-using-books-as.html" target="_blank">(credit)</a><br />
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Exactly how many book themed items does it take to make a person appear loopy anyway?<br />
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PS I've updated the author spotlight, middle grade madness, and picture book of the month in the sidebar. Have a happy 4th of July and stay safe!MTeacresshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00381461599028233499noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1978181698126675838.post-88341060543959571832012-06-27T13:11:00.000-06:002012-06-27T13:11:07.925-06:00A Pessimist's Guide to Optimism V<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8CAAfIGLMdA/T-tU-c50BoI/AAAAAAAAB_w/7U4Jzh6V8_8/s1600/Arrive" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8CAAfIGLMdA/T-tU-c50BoI/AAAAAAAAB_w/7U4Jzh6V8_8/s200/Arrive" vca="true" width="200" /></a></div>
After a month of concentrating on the bad that didn't happen, another month of looking for the good that almost happened, and a third month of secretive optimism, you've finally spent a fourth month smiling more.<br />
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<strong>You have arrived!</strong><br />
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New acquantances don't even notice the struggling devil on your shoulder - but he's still there, and he's got a plan. <br />
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The plan? To get you to overshoot your mark, to put on a happy face, to go beyond bubbly - all sugar, no spice, sickly sweet. Can you think of anyone like that? I can. They make me sick. <em>I</em> make me sick when I catch myself on overdrive. Then <em>WHAM!</em> I'm right back with my old pessimist self. <br />
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So, go gently. Notice your optimistic accomplishment and soak it in like the sunrise on a cold morning.<br />
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Next month, I'll write one last post of optimistic input, and then you'll be good to go!<br />
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<a href="http://michelleteacress.blogspot.com/2012/01/pessimists-guide-to-optimism.html" target="_blank">Lesson #1</a><br />
<a href="http://michelleteacress.blogspot.com/2012/02/pessimists-guide-to-opptimism-ii.html" target="_blank">Lesson #2</a><br />
<a href="http://michelleteacress.blogspot.com/2012/03/pessimists-guide-to-optimism-iii.html" target="_blank">Lesson #3</a><br />
<a href="http://michelleteacress.blogspot.com/2012/05/pessimists-guide-to-optimism-iv.html" target="_blank">Lesson #4</a><br />MTeacresshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00381461599028233499noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1978181698126675838.post-87696219943408375022012-06-06T01:00:00.000-06:002012-06-06T01:00:14.714-06:00Author Spotlight: Christy Dorrity<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tiYvYEc79Io/T84l7degDbI/AAAAAAAAB5c/NiKJMMZZdms/s1600/ChristyDorrity.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tiYvYEc79Io/T84l7degDbI/AAAAAAAAB5c/NiKJMMZZdms/s200/ChristyDorrity.jpg" width="156" /></a></div>
Another friendly, local author, <a href="http://www.dearestdreams.com/" target="_blank">Christy Dorrity</a>, has come up with an idea that makes me say <em>Hm. Why didn't I think of that?</em> <br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/2012-Book-Bloggers-Cookbook-ebook/dp/B007ZS0UBY/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1336418542&sr=8-2" target="_blank">The Book Blogger’s Cookbook</a> has 50 different book reviewers from every corner of the blogosphere. It showcases great reads, provides an <em>interactive</em> experience with links to author and book reviewer websites, and tells why each recipe complements its companion book. Recipes and books combine to make the reading experience satisfying and entertaining.<br />
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See what I mean? Recipes bringing back fond reading memories! <br />
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One word. Yessssss. <br />
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Plus, you can trust these recipes will be worth your while. Have you tried Christy's <a href="http://www.dearestdreams.com/2010/06/dublin-coddle.html" target="_blank">Dublin Coddle</a>? We eat it regularly since we discovered the recipe on Christy's blog two years ago. Delish.MTeacresshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00381461599028233499noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1978181698126675838.post-8414799900774615912012-05-22T11:41:00.001-06:002012-05-22T11:41:50.824-06:00Looks Like a Book IV<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KVMmG2827Ow/T7vJfbwbbNI/AAAAAAAAB4g/oyIyGHw9Vv8/s1600/BookChair" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" qba="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KVMmG2827Ow/T7vJfbwbbNI/AAAAAAAAB4g/oyIyGHw9Vv8/s200/BookChair" width="200" /></a></div>
I'm not finicky about where I sit when I read. Most seats will do: a bench, office chair, couch, pillow, recliner, blanket, sand, boulder...it doesn't matter, so long as it's not in a car or on a boat. *puke*<br />
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Some people are very choosy about their reading space - proper lighting, cushions, climate, privacy, etc. They design nooks or entire rooms around their particularities. Hats off to them.<br />
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Then, there are those who take "book chairs" one step further, as seen below. Where do you sit when you read?<br />
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<a href="http://theartofthebook.blogspot.com/2007/09/book-chair.html" target="_blank">(credit)</a></div>
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<a href="http://thatslikewhoa.com/chair-made-from-old-books/" target="_blank">(credit)</a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jxJPA59oGVo/T7vOPEWuo4I/AAAAAAAAB48/yTcQQWtbp6A/s1600/BookChairC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" qba="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jxJPA59oGVo/T7vOPEWuo4I/AAAAAAAAB48/yTcQQWtbp6A/s320/BookChairC.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.designer-daily.com/books-lovers-here-is-your-chair-122" target="_blank">(credit)</a></div>
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<a href="http://jtchatter.blogspot.com/2012/03/british-library.html" target="_blank">(credit)</a></div>MTeacresshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00381461599028233499noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1978181698126675838.post-26864419866576521822012-05-10T01:00:00.000-06:002012-06-08T17:39:33.363-06:00A Pessimist's Guide to Optimism IV<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GhYY5yZ2kCY/T6qducsg2PI/AAAAAAAAB34/J4BZzTyVJrA/s1600/Smile" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dba="true" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GhYY5yZ2kCY/T6qducsg2PI/AAAAAAAAB34/J4BZzTyVJrA/s200/Smile" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="http://michelleteacress.blogspot.com/2012/01/pessimists-guide-to-optimism.html" target="_blank">Lesson #1</a>: The bad that <em>didn't</em> happen<br />
<a href="http://michelleteacress.blogspot.com/2012/02/pessimists-guide-to-opptimism-ii.html" target="_blank">Lesson #2</a>: The good that <em>almost</em> happened<br />
<a href="http://michelleteacress.blogspot.com/2012/03/pessimists-guide-to-optimism-iii.html" target="_blank">Lesson #3</a>: Cautious optimism - <u>don't tell anyone</u>.<br />
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Take a deep breath. Here comes lesson number four. You can do this.<br />
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<strong>Smiling more is okay - even at other people</strong>. You can keep your arms crossed and sort of look off to the side, like the girl to the left - this is what we call <em>a guarded smile</em>. Don't let anyone tell you that guarded smiles don't count. They do.<br />
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The devil on your shoulder will be scowling by now...and plotting his revenge. If you have moments of weakness, due to that fuming evil fellow, feel free to slip back into cautious optimism for a day or two - until you feel strong enough to come back "out". <br />
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Only two more steps. Good luck!<br />
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<br />MTeacresshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00381461599028233499noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1978181698126675838.post-58112923047250323802012-05-08T01:00:00.000-06:002012-05-08T01:00:05.663-06:00Author Spotlight: Sheila Nielson<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--hZOzyEm4vQ/T6hd-z5V7vI/AAAAAAAAB2A/nUmzRvX8OMg/s1600/ForbiddenSea2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" mea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--hZOzyEm4vQ/T6hd-z5V7vI/AAAAAAAAB2A/nUmzRvX8OMg/s200/ForbiddenSea2.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
The A-Z prize pack included <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Forbidden-Sea-Sheila-A-Nielson/dp/0545097347/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1336434018&sr=8-1" target="_blank">The Forbidden Sea</a> by Sheila Nielson, another friendly, local author - Utah makes a lot of 'em. Both my daughter and I enjoy Sheila's work and anticipate hearing when her next novel will arrive. <br />
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Lucky for you, Sheila is currently holding a giveaway on her blog. <a href="http://www.windwaithemermaid.blogspot.com/2012/05/forbidden-sea-mermaid-contest-giveaway.html" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> to check it out. The prize includes a copy of her book, a hand crafted (by the author) mermaid necklace, and more. Definitely worth your time!<br />
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Here's a tiny glimpse inside The Forbidden Sea...<br />
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"A mermaid haunts Adrianne's dreams . . . is she coming to warn her, save her, or drag her down into the depths of the briny sea forever?" (Amazon)<br />
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Well, what are you waiting for?<br />
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<br />MTeacresshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00381461599028233499noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1978181698126675838.post-62690511619400490542012-03-29T09:38:00.000-06:002012-03-29T09:38:35.537-06:00Author Spotlight: Brandon Mull<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1GbQebTu2RE/T3R88-HViGI/AAAAAAAABwk/zJWY9YNTvm4/s1600/BrandonMull.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dea="true" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1GbQebTu2RE/T3R88-HViGI/AAAAAAAABwk/zJWY9YNTvm4/s200/BrandonMull.jpg" width="146" /></a></div>
You've probably heard of the New York Times best selling author, Brandon Mull. I'm proud to say he lives in Utah, and that I've met him a few times because he attends local writers conferences and book signings. He seems genuinely appreciative of his young fans and expresses interest in their lives. Go Brandon!<br />
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Take a look at his work:<br />
<a href="http://brandonmull.com/site/beyonders-books" target="_blank">Beyonders</a><br />
<a href="http://brandonmull.com/site/fablehaven-books" target="_blank">Fablehaven</a><br />
<a href="http://brandonmull.com/site/archives/24" target="_blank">Candy Shop War</a><br />
<a href="http://brandonmull.com/site/archives/30" target="_blank">Pingo</a> (a picture book)<br />
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He's actually on tour right as we blog, and you can visit <a href="http://brandonmull.com/site/tour" target="_blank">his site</a> to see if he's stopping in your state. If you know any young readers who enjoy fantasy, this guy is a top notch suggestion.<br />
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See you all this Sunday for the start of the <a href="http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/" target="_blank">A-Z Blogging Challenge</a>!MTeacresshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00381461599028233499noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1978181698126675838.post-46248125758037626952012-03-22T05:00:00.000-06:002012-03-22T05:00:10.402-06:00Looks Like a Book IIIBooks and hats have had a good relationship for years. <br />
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If we read a lot of books in the right order, at the right time, our efforts can earn us one of those flat hats with a nifty tassel. <br />
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We also have books on how to make hats: yarn, straw, or paper - take your pick. <br />
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And who can deny the success of Dr. Seuss and his cat, or Alice and her Mad Hatter?<br />
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Cowboys, presidents, orphans, snowmen, princesses...they all have hats. Kind of makes me want a hat, but not quite like these guys...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YT-HILFb6Qc/T2gH7koLLaI/AAAAAAAABu8/pTF4cUtlxn4/s1600/BookHat1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="192" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YT-HILFb6Qc/T2gH7koLLaI/AAAAAAAABu8/pTF4cUtlxn4/s320/BookHat1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.beautycent.com/category/book-hats" target="_blank">credit</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-orKJ0Z2J9L8/T2gILNnPAsI/AAAAAAAABvE/BFo4gSG7L28/s1600/BookHat2.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img aea="true" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-orKJ0Z2J9L8/T2gILNnPAsI/AAAAAAAABvE/BFo4gSG7L28/s1600/BookHat2.gif" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://mhilmyh.blogspot.com/2006/04/new-book-hat-fashion-hits-ukraine.html" target="_blank">credit</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5AIoJCtxEAY/T2gIYysZQ0I/AAAAAAAABvM/OnfuZv13QuY/s1600/BookHat3.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="318" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5AIoJCtxEAY/T2gIYysZQ0I/AAAAAAAABvM/OnfuZv13QuY/s320/BookHat3.bmp" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://bookshelvesofdoom.blogs.com/bookshelves_of_doom/2010/08/erm-lets-hope-this-doesnt-ever-become-a-fashion-trend.html" target="_blank">credit</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>MTeacresshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00381461599028233499noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1978181698126675838.post-37577655304182005202012-03-20T05:00:00.000-06:002012-03-20T05:00:02.336-06:00What's Cool at the Book Store <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pfFcOhktqN0/T2fz7jMNxSI/AAAAAAAABuU/4DutNFOXsx8/s1600/BookBox1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pfFcOhktqN0/T2fz7jMNxSI/AAAAAAAABuU/4DutNFOXsx8/s200/BookBox1.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.kaboodle.com/reviews/wood-book-boxes-7" target="_blank">credit</a></td></tr>
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<strong>Book Boxes</strong>: not to be confused with a heavy duty cardboard box, nor a set of boxed books like <em>The Chronicles of Narnia</em>. <br />
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These are actual boxes made to look like books, or actual books made to act like a box. <br />
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The ones on the right are made out of wood, with a hinge like a jewelry box. <br />
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I've also seen them made out cardboard, and even glass. <br />
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Here's one for the average couch potato who desires to appear more intellectual than a couch potato would otherwise appear.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v55CN7b2ynY/T2f2-gCVkUI/AAAAAAAABuc/bRrz_JdLraw/s1600/BookBox2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img aea="true" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v55CN7b2ynY/T2f2-gCVkUI/AAAAAAAABuc/bRrz_JdLraw/s1600/BookBox2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://cherylrainfield.com/blog/index.php/2008/11/05/gifts-for-book-lovers-and-writers/" target="_blank">credit</a></td></tr>
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Here's yet another - a gift for book lovers, but not a book. It's a stationary set...<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Hdkiv5tOOWI/T2f7Grj_CJI/AAAAAAAABus/LgRd2IlK2Kk/s1600/BookBox3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img aea="true" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Hdkiv5tOOWI/T2f7Grj_CJI/AAAAAAAABus/LgRd2IlK2Kk/s1600/BookBox3.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Punch-Studio-France-Notecards-Keepsake/dp/B007AKDLA4/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1332214497&sr=8-2" target="_blank">credit</a></td></tr>
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Sometimes I go to the second hand store to search for old books so I can make my own book box. I found this tutorial a couple of years ago. I'll share it with you because I like to share with you guys, you know?<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/l8W58xK5zFg?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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Do you own any? Have you ever made one out of an old book? Try it. It's fun!MTeacresshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00381461599028233499noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1978181698126675838.post-6533608261924793222012-03-13T19:29:00.000-06:002012-06-08T17:39:33.374-06:00A Pessimist's Guide to Optimism III<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xfEzZRDKdl0/T1_oBA-gcgI/AAAAAAAABuM/uKmi_ma0Dn8/s1600/caution" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xfEzZRDKdl0/T1_oBA-gcgI/AAAAAAAABuM/uKmi_ma0Dn8/s200/caution" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="http://michelleteacress.blogspot.com/2012/01/pessimists-guide-to-optimism.html" target="_blank">Lesson #1</a>: the bad that <em>didn't</em> happen.<br />
<a href="http://michelleteacress.blogspot.com/2012/02/pessimists-guide-to-opptimism-ii.html" target="_blank">Lesson #2</a>: the good that <em>almost</em> happened.<br />
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And now...prepare yourself...you are ready for Lesson #3: <strong>cautious optimism - </strong>so long as you don't tell anyone.<br />
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If you tell, you may ruin your chances to make it to Lessons #4, #5, and #6. Yes, we are only half-way there. This is a six month process. Studies* have shown that advancing too quickly from pessimism to optimism can cause indigestion, nausea, muscle weakness, headaches, and a greater chance of relapse.<br />
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<strong>Don't tell anyone.</strong><br />
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In the beginning, the devil on your shoulder wondered what was going on and felt the onset of nervousness. However, step three sets off alarms of panic. He'll be looking for the following red flags...<br />
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An overabundance of smiling<br />
A mild feeling of hope<br />
Cheerful conversations<br />
Waking up on the right side of the bed<br />
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...anything to verify the onset of actual optimism. But these red flags will be difficult for him to spot if you <strong>don't tell anyone</strong>. Then come back next month for step four. <br />
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Good luck!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">*I made this part up</span>MTeacresshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00381461599028233499noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1978181698126675838.post-30005225009142379512012-03-06T08:45:00.002-07:002012-03-06T08:45:13.055-07:00Inspirational MoustachesThis wide earth is loaded with unique individuals. When I see some of the most unique, the cogs of my imagination automatically turn and turn. <br />
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For example, I once saw an thin, aging gentleman - not much taller than I am - in a clean tweed print suit. He held his chin high as he browsed the rows in the university bookstore. Within one second, my brain had him categorized as an intelligent, grandfatherly, professor type...until I saw the giant sun-dial tattoo on the back of his shiny head. Then I was a little bit scared of him. I wanted to make him the bad guy in my next novel. <span style="font-size: x-small;">*teehee*</span><br />
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Today's post is dedicated to inspiring people in the interesting moustache category.<br />
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First up, this friendly looking fellow who makes me wonder if I can really trust him. He's either a friend of Scooby and Shaggy, or Jabba the Hutt...<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zlukhAev_7M/T1Yrmquwl4I/AAAAAAAABto/ZaNE5nvQCYw/s1600/Moustache1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zlukhAev_7M/T1Yrmquwl4I/AAAAAAAABto/ZaNE5nvQCYw/s320/Moustache1.jpg" uda="true" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.zimbio.com/pictures/Z2dTWLA3gUH/World+Beard+Moustache+Competitors+Attend+Media/6twzukyEa7g/Nathaniel+Beard" target="_blank">credit</a></td></tr>
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Second, a man who is the spitting image of someone I go to church with. His stache looks like the perfect hiding place for an emergency peppermint...<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7taAgZ_CjSQ/T1YsxRknX4I/AAAAAAAABtw/7wqFtVh8UBU/s1600/Moustache2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7taAgZ_CjSQ/T1YsxRknX4I/AAAAAAAABtw/7wqFtVh8UBU/s320/Moustache2.jpg" uda="true" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://mydisguises.com/2009/09/22/beard-and-moustache-championships/" target="_blank">credit</a></td></tr>
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Lastly, this one makes me think of Professor McGonagall. Remember how she changed into a cat? If she would have married, maybe this would have been her husband...<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gwhnVlaJN2k/T1YuXocM9UI/AAAAAAAABt4/tSmLDZnhGNM/s1600/Moustache3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gwhnVlaJN2k/T1YuXocM9UI/AAAAAAAABt4/tSmLDZnhGNM/s320/Moustache3.jpg" uda="true" width="251" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://srslycute.com/moustache-cat/" target="_blank">credit</a></td></tr>
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Maybe my good friend, <a href="http://www.lauren-gillespie.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Lauren</a>, will stop by and share a favorite memory of her families annual Moustache May in which all the men grow a stache, take pictures of their progress, and then get together to brag about how good it looks.<br />
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Have you ever been inspired by a moustache?MTeacresshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00381461599028233499noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1978181698126675838.post-18179086736226783222012-03-01T07:52:00.000-07:002012-03-01T07:52:52.513-07:00Author Spotlight: Alane Ferguson<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HVbNI4SQ3Ck/T0-IwOsUoUI/AAAAAAAABrk/PbF86u-E3A4/s1600/AlaneFerguson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HVbNI4SQ3Ck/T0-IwOsUoUI/AAAAAAAABrk/PbF86u-E3A4/s200/AlaneFerguson.jpg" uda="true" width="137" /></a></div>
Forensic mystery is quite popular on television, and Alane's forensic mystery series for young adults is equally as interesting. Her most recent is <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Dying-Breath-Forensic-Mystery-ebook/dp/B002XNUWBE/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1330612296&sr=8-2" target="_blank">The Dying Breath</a>, published last year.<br />
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In trying to pick one of Alane's strengths to highlight, I couldn't decide...<br />
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<strong>I love the characters</strong> and their relationships with one another. I can relate so well to Cameryn Mahony that I feel like <em>I am</em> the main character while I'm reading.<br />
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<strong>Descriptions are clear as a bell</strong> - almost too clear if you don't like forensic details. But I found it tremendously interesting.<br />
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<strong>The pacing is perfect</strong>: fast, yet with moments that allow me to catch my breath before I jump back into the action. <br />
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Have you ever read a forensic mystery? Do you have any suggested authors who may be similar?MTeacresshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00381461599028233499noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1978181698126675838.post-42815212996534152422012-02-21T08:15:00.001-07:002012-02-21T08:15:21.861-07:00What's Cool at the Book Store<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-79EH9Wol05I/T0OtsYEr8jI/AAAAAAAABqo/0uvmGAD_2rw/s1600/BookEndsBirds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="170" lda="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-79EH9Wol05I/T0OtsYEr8jI/AAAAAAAABqo/0uvmGAD_2rw/s200/BookEndsBirds.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
I think I know why my family has always been partial to flat, metal, bookends - price. It's what we used. It's what the library used. It's what professional offices used. I didn't know any better...<br />
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Now I do a double take whenever I see something unique and creative holding up a book. I pause to admire the beauty, the style, and the weight. They're so heavy! Yes, I am easily entertained.<br />
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Collecting book ends would be fun, though pricey. But they make a statement. What kind? I'm not sure. It depends. I was browsing through <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/book-ends?dref=2009&keyword=book+ends" target="_blank">B&N's</a> collection of book ends and found all sorts - shoes, people, animals, hands, toys, furniture, rocks. It was <em>awesome</em>.<br />
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What kind of book ends do you use? Here are few to spark your imagination...<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YLuPZmrtFA0/T0OyEpWJ0oI/AAAAAAAABqw/odQHQZDPtRc/s1600/BookEndsBook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" lda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YLuPZmrtFA0/T0OyEpWJ0oI/AAAAAAAABqw/odQHQZDPtRc/s320/BookEndsBook.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GagF9m1tIzE/T0OyNpn0GDI/AAAAAAAABq4/-sUguWFKVIA/s1600/BookEndsCats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" lda="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GagF9m1tIzE/T0OyNpn0GDI/AAAAAAAABq4/-sUguWFKVIA/s1600/BookEndsCats.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4-X9_sJUl9A/T0OyVlYcSvI/AAAAAAAABrA/tNl_ElTrApg/s1600/BookEndsZebra.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" lda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4-X9_sJUl9A/T0OyVlYcSvI/AAAAAAAABrA/tNl_ElTrApg/s1600/BookEndsZebra.jpg" /></a></div>
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Now, to celebrate my 300th post, I am giving away a set of unique book ends to one of my followers. Simply leave a comment on this post naming one of your favorite authors. I'll announce the winner next Tuesday, February 28th. Good luck!MTeacresshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00381461599028233499noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1978181698126675838.post-31239057896893587772012-02-16T08:07:00.001-07:002012-02-16T08:10:08.344-07:00Looks Like a Book II<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zv-o61rvPTs/Tz0RCOuKYSI/AAAAAAAABp4/efs6234lDoc/s1600/BookJewelry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="178" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zv-o61rvPTs/Tz0RCOuKYSI/AAAAAAAABp4/efs6234lDoc/s200/BookJewelry.jpg" width="200" yda="true" /></a></div>
First, book art...now, book jewelry. They should sell this stuff in the book stores - an obvious hit for a majority of book-lovers, since most of them are women!<br />
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I've seen bracelets and necklaces with book charms made out of metal, but that's not what I'm looking for in book jewelry. Something more creative and realistic makes me stop and say <em>Would you look at that!</em><br />
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<a href="http://www.craftster.org/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=169747;sa=showImages" target="_blank">credit</a><br />
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The only place I've seen this stuff is online. I would buy it. I would collect it. I would brag about it. If it was easier to buy. I'm a one stop, specialty shop sort of gall. It makes me happy to find several items all together. Grumpy calls my name if I have to go all over town (or the internet) to buy one item at a time.<br />
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<em>But</em>, if I aquired a collection, I would store it in one of these nifty book boxes, like this...<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f4hsrCNwfxE/Tz0WnPQyXcI/AAAAAAAABqA/ajUnYWcHZ1I/s1600/BookJewelryBox.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f4hsrCNwfxE/Tz0WnPQyXcI/AAAAAAAABqA/ajUnYWcHZ1I/s320/BookJewelryBox.jpg" width="316" yda="true" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/79190775/vintage-book-jewelry-box-unique-recycled" target="_blank">credit</a><br />
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Plus, take a look at these beauties - hair pins, and a ring...<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KclYVcl1cXI/Tz0Xxk40xXI/AAAAAAAABqI/Ct8-QZQe7MY/s1600/BookJewelry3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KclYVcl1cXI/Tz0Xxk40xXI/AAAAAAAABqI/Ct8-QZQe7MY/s320/BookJewelry3.jpg" width="320" yda="true" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://neverlandjewelry.deviantart.com/art/Beloved-Book-Ring-242570862" target="_blank">credit</a><br />
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And if I don't want it to look exactly like a book, but rather take after a book, there are these...<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YxqVIsz0QFg/Tz0aLVrFPqI/AAAAAAAABqY/P-VyAQhmDBA/s1600/BookJewelry4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YxqVIsz0QFg/Tz0aLVrFPqI/AAAAAAAABqY/P-VyAQhmDBA/s320/BookJewelry4.jpg" width="320" yda="true" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kKK1ROfpe6w/Tz0ahyRyl7I/AAAAAAAABqg/p-2X6cQqR6g/s1600/BookJewelry5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kKK1ROfpe6w/Tz0ahyRyl7I/AAAAAAAABqg/p-2X6cQqR6g/s320/BookJewelry5.jpg" width="320" yda="true" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.craftjuice.com/story.php?title=mr-darcy-ring-upycled-vintage-pride-and-prejudice-book-jewelry-" target="_blank">credit</a><br />
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Have you ever seen anyone wearing this kind of jewelry? Would you?MTeacresshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00381461599028233499noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1978181698126675838.post-54202726558081341482012-02-07T08:25:00.003-07:002012-06-08T17:39:33.371-06:00A Pessimist's Guide to Optimism II<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jlgjBx-3ztE/TzE-S-xjY6I/AAAAAAAABpg/FDHm1Zu4q5E/s1600/second" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" sda="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jlgjBx-3ztE/TzE-S-xjY6I/AAAAAAAABpg/FDHm1Zu4q5E/s200/second" width="200" /></a></div>
Have you been practicing <a href="http://michelleteacress.blogspot.com/2012/01/pessimists-guide-to-optimism.html" target="_blank">step one</a>? <br />
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Step two to becoming an optimism convert is more challenging - painful. But for most pessimists, that's okay - because pain and disappointment are in the comfort zone. What is step two?<br />
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<strong>Concentrate on the good that <em>almost</em> happened. </strong><br />
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During your conversion process, the devil on your shoulder *DOYS* will initially think <em>What's going on here? </em>He tries to talk himself out of any unnecessary worry, but step two brings on full blown nervousness and a high level of observation on DOYS' part. <em>Can this really be happening?</em><br />
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Yes. Yes it can. And to a true blue pessimist, this can be the so-close-and-yet-so-far moment, a moment that can bring on heavy doubt and temptation to give up this stupid effort, since it's not going to work anyway...<br />
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To combat this dilemma, embrace the pain of second place, the disappointment of <em>I almost did it</em>. <br />
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Then come back next month for step three. Good luck!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">PS: Scroll down for a chance to win a signed copy of Jody Hedlund's <em>The Preacher's Wife</em>!</span>MTeacresshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00381461599028233499noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1978181698126675838.post-59487601190963039472012-02-02T07:32:00.000-07:002012-02-02T07:32:47.831-07:00Author Spotlight: Jody Hedlund<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O6AdiQqIQ1I/Tyqb-_S8PSI/AAAAAAAABoo/-2gFsU2ULQ0/s1600/PreachersBride.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" sda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O6AdiQqIQ1I/Tyqb-_S8PSI/AAAAAAAABoo/-2gFsU2ULQ0/s200/PreachersBride.jpg" width="130" /></a></div>
Smack dab in time for Valentines Day, author <a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=sr_tc_2_0?rh=i%3Astripbooks%2Ck%3AJody+Hedlund&keywords=Jody+Hedlund&ie=UTF8&qid=1328192330&sr=1-2-ent&field-contributor_id=B003JLXD6A" target="_blank">Jody Hedlund</a> has agreed to donate a signed copy of her inspirational historical romance <em>The Preacher's Bride</em>! <br />
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I'll be blunt: I don't like romances. However, I like Jody, so I hesitantly gave this a try and surprised myself - I absolutely loved <em>The Preacher's Bride</em>. I can hardly wait to read <em>The Doctor's Lady</em> which came out last fall.<br />
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I'll announce the winner on Valentines Day. If you'd like to enter, simply leave a comment on this post. Good luck!<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Winners must be followers of this blog.</span>MTeacresshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00381461599028233499noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1978181698126675838.post-22284085433618135982012-01-19T01:00:00.000-07:002012-01-19T01:00:04.458-07:00What's Cool at the Book Store<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_Q3vTJJ--JE/TxeaYz42p_I/AAAAAAAABoI/9CoeLWErJPc/s1600/Journal3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" nfa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_Q3vTJJ--JE/TxeaYz42p_I/AAAAAAAABoI/9CoeLWErJPc/s200/Journal3.jpg" width="152" /></a></div>
The book store is an appealing place for more than just books these days. After I browse through the novels, I crave a scone and hot cocoa from the cafe while I peruse the gift aisles. <br />
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What's cool at the book store this month? Journals.<br />
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Journals used to be kind of boring. I wrote in several as a teen, but they were mostly plain blue, brown, white, or red - with the word "Journal" written in gold calligraphy on the front. <br />
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At the time, they were appreciated, I promise. But now, when I take a trip to the bookstore, I am amazed at the variety of unique journals and notebooks.<br />
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Take a look at these beauties...<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oBLuI-MvFu4/TxemE0DORSI/AAAAAAAABoQ/bz9XVJJXtPs/s1600/Journals.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" nfa="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oBLuI-MvFu4/TxemE0DORSI/AAAAAAAABoQ/bz9XVJJXtPs/s200/Journals.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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I found the journals in this post at <a href="http://gifts.barnesandnoble.com/u/Notebooks-Journals-Diaries/379000584/?start=1" target="_blank">Barnes and Noble</a>. <br />
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Maybe I'll start a collection. Do you write regularly in a journal?MTeacresshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00381461599028233499noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1978181698126675838.post-7615787167376568802012-01-17T07:58:00.001-07:002012-01-17T07:58:55.081-07:00Looks Like a Book<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UJT-SfszNYw/TxWGcYXUb1I/AAAAAAAABno/2PLu78sP0s8/s1600/BookArt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="141" kba="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UJT-SfszNYw/TxWGcYXUb1I/AAAAAAAABno/2PLu78sP0s8/s200/BookArt.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
People are creative with books - and not just the authors. <br />
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I've been looking for book art, expecting to see a lot of framed illustration work, yet surprised and pleased at the variety of art I actually found. <br />
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I was also shocked by the negative reaction. Apparently some people think this type of art is disrespectful to both books and their authors. Not me!<br />
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Face it - people don't read novels often. Despite the popularity of e-readers, an extremely small percentage of the world's population has access to one. <br />
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Let's pretend for a moment that we are <em>not</em> reading fanatics. *gasp* If you saw a piece of art like this, would it nourish a small seed of interest within your soul? Would you be more inclined to pick up a real book? Possibly. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uJu18vxOoRw/TxWL0IPweyI/AAAAAAAABnw/7gYFKdsJJnE/s1600/BookArt2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="189" kba="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uJu18vxOoRw/TxWL0IPweyI/AAAAAAAABnw/7gYFKdsJJnE/s320/BookArt2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NP1R35wrAk4/TxWL4urJqiI/AAAAAAAABn4/Jln7wEkM3_0/s1600/BookArt3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" kba="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NP1R35wrAk4/TxWL4urJqiI/AAAAAAAABn4/Jln7wEkM3_0/s320/BookArt3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N3dEjXzuX8s/TxWL8j3SuaI/AAAAAAAABoA/gxHIgEi0oho/s1600/BookArt4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="249" kba="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N3dEjXzuX8s/TxWL8j3SuaI/AAAAAAAABoA/gxHIgEi0oho/s320/BookArt4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This is good, not bad.<br />
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What do you think?<br />
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Take a look at <a href="http://www.offbeatearth.com/dont-like-reading-other-uses-for-books/" target="_blank">Off Beat Earth</a>'s post (the source of these photos) for more ideas.MTeacresshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00381461599028233499noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1978181698126675838.post-49906726358568842412012-01-12T01:00:00.000-07:002012-06-08T17:39:33.367-06:00A Pessimist's Guide to Optimism<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--3JgpvgUf4Y/Tw4fe9y-NwI/AAAAAAAABng/dCa9wy4QqxM/s1600/Mouse" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" kba="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--3JgpvgUf4Y/Tw4fe9y-NwI/AAAAAAAABng/dCa9wy4QqxM/s200/Mouse" width="200" /></a></div>
When we lived in Arizona, the local news did a story on roof rat issues in nearby neighborhoods.<br />
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They only need a hole the size of a quarter to get into your house.<br />
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They're good climbers.<br />
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They nest in trees and attics.<br />
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They will eat your oranges right off the tree.<br />
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One day we discovered something dark swimming in our pool and wondered if it was the dreaded pest. Upon closer inspection, we discovered it was just a mouse. The mouse, with his black, beady eyes, literally squeaked for help when he saw us. He couldn't get out. We helped him. I'm not sure why.<br />
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The point? At least it wasn't a roof rat.<br />
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I am an optimism convert - yes, there were times when I glared at cheerful people, and would rather trip them than hold the door open. However, becoming an optimist isn't as bad as it seems. If you're considering a switch from pessimism, start here...<br />
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Lesson #1: Concentrate on the bad things that didn't happen.<br />
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Practice off and on for a month, and come back for step two in February. K, bye.MTeacresshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00381461599028233499noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1978181698126675838.post-39026212079440479162012-01-10T01:00:00.000-07:002012-01-10T01:00:11.837-07:00KM Weiland's Wordplay<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sY3ya1IdGus/Twt-Af6MazI/AAAAAAAABnY/Bwu1gXXoUmA/s1600/kmweiland.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" rea="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sY3ya1IdGus/Twt-Af6MazI/AAAAAAAABnY/Bwu1gXXoUmA/s200/kmweiland.jpg" width="146" /></a></div>
Looking at this young face, one wouldn't expect her to know so much about writing. But not only does she know her stuff, she's at the top of my list if you ask me <em>Who's your mentor?</em> <br />
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KM Weiland runs <a href="http://wordplay-kmweiland.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Wordplay</a>, a blog geared toward new writers. <em>What's so great about that?</em> you say? <em>There are tons of those kinds of blogs. </em>I know. I've seen them too. <br />
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BUT, Weiland <strong>doesn't</strong> act like a know-it-all, looking down from her lofty position, granting us great wisdom and direction. She <strong>doesn't</strong> spew on about her accomplishments, or put on a show. <br />
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She's <strong>does</strong> act like a friend, with the map, willing to share. She also makes things fun with vlog posts and unique giveaways.<br />
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I asked her a question via email last week, and she responded quickly, with genuine information - not just a copy and paste answer. I was touched by her help, and grateful for the encouragement. <br />
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Visit her site. Follow her. Check out her work...<br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Memory-Lights-ebook/dp/B006BDRRR4/ref=sr_1_4?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1326154291&sr=1-4" target="_blank">The Memory Lights</a><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Man-Called-Outlaw-K-Weiland/dp/0978924606/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1326154291&sr=1-3" target="_blank">A Man Called Outlaw</a><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Behold-Dawn-K-M-Weiland/dp/0978924614/ref=sr_1_5?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1326154291&sr=1-5" target="_blank">Behold the Dawn</a><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Outlining-Your-Novel-Map-Success/dp/0978924622/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1326154291&sr=1-1" target="_blank">Outlining Your Novel: Map Your Way to Success</a><br />MTeacresshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00381461599028233499noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1978181698126675838.post-12030335524737183102012-01-05T01:00:00.000-07:002012-01-05T07:28:35.062-07:00Author Spotlight: J Scott Savage<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nuaHmUyl-vQ/TwOkJ7bQq3I/AAAAAAAABlA/Wlq8qvmu71g/s1600/FarWorld.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nuaHmUyl-vQ/TwOkJ7bQq3I/AAAAAAAABlA/Wlq8qvmu71g/s200/FarWorld.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Farworld-Book-Water-Keep-World/dp/159038962X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1325638550&sr=8-1">Far World</a> has been around for a few years, and I still remember it! That's saying something, because I usually forget titles, authors and details within a year or two of reading a book - which is nice if I want to read it again some day, but not nice when I start wondering what that means when I'm 80.<br />
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J. Scott Savage is a friendly, local author who has written both <em>Water Keep</em> and <em>Land Keep </em>in the <em>Far World</em> series. It's been a while since he's written anything else that I'm aware of, but if you're looking for a fun fantasy read that you probably haven't previously heard of, try this one. <br />
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It's good to be back after a nice holiday break! I took a look at my 2011 <a href="http://michelleteacress.blogspot.com/search/label/authors" target="_blank">author spotlights</a> as well as <strong>middle grade madness</strong>, just for fun. In case you missed them, <strong>here's a summary</strong>...<br />
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<strong>AUTHOR SPOTLIGHTS:</strong><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=Shannon+Hale" target="_blank">Shannon Hale</a><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=Shannon+Hale#/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=Patrick+Carman&rh=n%3A283155%2Ck%3APatrick+Carman" target="_blank">Patrick Carman</a><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=Shannon+Hale#/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=Robert+Liparulo&rh=n%3A283155%2Ck%3ARobert+Liparulo" target="_blank">Robert Liparulo</a><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=Ann+Dee+Ellis&rh=n%3A283155%2Ck%3AAnn+Dee+Ellis&ajr=0" target="_blank">Ann Dee Ellis</a><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=Jenny+Nimmo" target="_blank">Jenny Nimmo</a><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=Sharon+Creech" target="_blank">Sharon Creech</a><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=Sharon+Creech#/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=Jerry+Spinelli&rh=n%3A283155%2Ck%3AJerry+Spinelli" target="_blank">Jerry Spinelli</a><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=Sharon+Creech#/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=Richard+Peck&rh=n%3A283155%2Ck%3ARichard+Peck" target="_blank">Richard Peck</a><br />
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<strong>MAD FOR MIDDLE GRADE:</strong><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Crooked-Kind-Perfect-Linda-Urban/dp/015206608X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1325704090&sr=1-1" target="_blank">A Crooked Kind of Perfect</a><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Incorrigible-Children-Ashton-Place-Mysterious/dp/0061791105/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1325704129&sr=1-1" target="_blank">The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place</a><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Ivy-Beans-Secret-Treasure-Books/dp/0811864952/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1325704199&sr=1-1" target="_blank">Ivy and Bean</a><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Love-That-Dog-Sharon-Creech/dp/0756913802/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1325704234&sr=1-1" target="_blank">Love That Dog</a><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Juliet-Dove-Queen-Love-Magic/dp/0152052178/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1325704269&sr=1-1" target="_blank">Juliet Dove, Queen of Love</a><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Case-Missing-Marquess-Holmes-Mystery/dp/0142409332/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1325704309&sr=1-1" target="_blank">The Case of the Missing Marquess</a><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/BFG-Roald-Dahl/dp/0142410381/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1325704347&sr=1-1" target="_blank">The BFG</a><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Adventures-Hashbrown-Winters-Frank-Cole/dp/1599553031/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1325704385&sr=1-1" target="_blank">Hashbrown Winters</a><br />
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I've come up with a few fun themes for 2012, and I'm excited to start the posts next week. See you then!<br />
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And now, to all my bloggerhood friends...<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QCImGtmGJiA/TwSnJrYUhII/AAAAAAAABmU/LT-haJmGAM4/s1600/HappyNewYear" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" rea="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QCImGtmGJiA/TwSnJrYUhII/AAAAAAAABmU/LT-haJmGAM4/s320/HappyNewYear" width="320" /></a></div>MTeacresshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00381461599028233499noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1978181698126675838.post-20663365670270235572011-12-20T01:00:00.000-07:002011-12-20T01:00:01.931-07:00The Coat: A Story of CharityChristmas week has finally arrived, and I'd like to send my warmest wishes to you and yours for a wonderful holiday. I'll return with the new year, but for now, Merry Christmas everyone! And for your holiday enjoyment, here is a two minute video called <em>The Coat</em>.<br />
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