Happy Monday to you,  It is hard to believe that November 1st is tomorrow; where do the days go?
Yesterday at church they sang  a song that I hadn't heard before, it always surprises me when you visit another church and hear songs you aren't familiar with. I love the lyrics and the singer, so thought I'd share it with you this morning. 

"Give You Glory" by Jeremy Camp

We have raised a thousand voices
Just to lift Your holy name
And we will raise thousands more
To sing of Your beauty in this place
Well none can even fathom

No not one define Your worth
As we marvel in Your presence
To the ends of the earth.

We give You glory,
Lifting up our hands and singing holy,
You alone are worthy
We just want to touch Your heart, Lord, touch Your heart
Glory, lifting up our voice and singing holy,
You alone are worthy
We just want to touch Your heart, Lord, touch Your heart

As we fall down before You
With our willing hearts we seek
In the greatness of Your glory
It's so hard to even speak

There is nothing we can offer
No nothing can repay
So we give You all our praises
And lift our voice to sing

We give You glory,
Lifting up our hands and singing holy,
You alone are worthy
We just want to touch Your heart, Lord, touch Your heart
Glory, lifting up our voice and singing holy,
You alone are worthy
We just want to touch Your heart, Lord, touch Your heart

Our hope is drenched in You
Our faith has been renewed
We trust in Your every word
Nothing else can even measure up to You.

We give You glory,
Lifting up our hands and singing holy,
You alone are worthy
We just want to touch Your heart, Lord, touch Your heart
Glory, lifting up our voice and singing holy,
You alone are worthy
We just want to touch Your heart, Lord, touch Your heart

I don't know what you are facing in your life today or in the lives of loved ones, but this I can promise-if you call out to Jesus, He will hear your cries and rescue you.  If you need someone to pray for you, please don't hesitate to leave me a message.
Embracing this life,  Noreen

Happy Friday To You!!!! Come join me doing the Happy Friday Dance, won't you.  We have a wonderful week, filled with all that makes my heart sing.  Last night we had our whole gang here for birthday celebrations.  One family came for dinner and the other family gathered afterwards with us for dessert and presents.  You know I've come a long way when a gathering of 15 of us doesn't really phase me at all.  There were giggles and laughter by all; oh how I love family!  I didn't even think to take photos last night-bad mom.....just kidding.
Today is a laid back kind of day and I'm not sure what hubby and I will be up to.  I know cutting fabric will be in there somewhere and we might check out some antique quilts at our Recreation Center but other than that we have no plans.  This weekend is the same, but oh how I love being home when it's cold and snowy out.  I'm so thankful that I don't have to rush to clear the driveway before going off to work. 
I hope you have a weekend filled the the glorious colors of autumn and shared with those you love.
Blessings and hugs, Noreen

Good Morning Friends, Once again I get to share all those blessings in my life with you.  A life made up of thanksgiving, gratitude and praise is a much happier life than a life spent grumbling, wouldn't you agree?
Today my good friend Lynn at http://unequalmarriage.typepad.com/ is hosting our TT, so stop by and say hello.  Lynn has been hosting TT for six years and has found that it is her time to focus on some other things; I want to thank Lynn for her love and encouragement over the years.  Lynn was one of the very first ladies I met online who has encouraged me more ways than I can count.  I wasn't even blogging when I got to know her; she has enriched my life so much. I've chatted with her on the phone but have not yet met her.  She will be missed in this one area but I'm thankful she isn't disappearing altogether-I'd have to fly out to Ca. and give her a talking to. 
Today I'm thankful for the change in weather-no new snow but we are having fog and ice.  I'm thankful that the Lord has numbered my days and made my lot secure; I won't recklessly venture out when it would be foolhardy, but I will not be fearful either. 
I am thankful that our whole gang is gathering here tonight for a birthday celebration, not only for our Carrie but also for her hubby and our other son-in-law. 
I am thankful that hubby and I had such a wonderful time away and saw an area we hadn't before.  I am thankful for the hope of future trips.
I am thankful for our family and all the love we share.
I am thankful for our good friends Jim and Barb and the wonderful friends they are.
I am thankful for a good kennel-who is at our vets, so we can rest knowing Reggie was well taken care of.
I am thankful for my friend here, Kam and all the fun times we share; we are off to study this morning.
I am thankful for the body of Christ, that when gathered together in His name, He is there also.
I am thankful for Beth Moore and her studies.
I am thankful for the wonderful friends I've made here in blogland.
Blessings to each of you.  Noreen

It's Outdoor Wednesday and I thought I'd share what we woke up to today~it's a winter wonderland.  Hubby and I measured and we have 8" and it is still snowing; nearby cities have between 12-14".

We donned our silk long-johns, wool socks, snow pants,ski sweaters, ski jackets and headed outside to clear the snow off the trees.  The news last night said there were going to be major problems for all the trees due to the heavy snow and sure enough they were right.  We quickly got as much snow off the branches as we could and noticed we lost a couple of small limbs from our Aspens.  We also cleared off a patch from the lawn for our dear Reggie and it surprised me how long he wanted to stay outside with us.  Of course, he follows us,especially me, everywhere but it would have been so cold on his feet and arthritic legs.

 The tree on the right is not a weeping Cherry but actually a Crabapple.  We call this type of snow, so packed with moisture, Sierra Sludge.  It sure makes clearing driveways and walkways a much more difficult task.

I can truly say the snow is so beautiful but I know I've lost all my Mums; oh well.  There was one other husband and wife team out shoveling as well and we said good morning to them.  In our development, we have to clear the sidewalks-not all folks do, guess they have to hurry off to work.
I'm thankful that the weather forecast for tomorrow is sunshine and no snow.  I've got my ladies study tomorrow and the idea of driving in wet snow does not appeal to me; I best get used to it though.
Have a wonderful day my friends.
Noreen

Beautiful San Juan Island, entering Roche Harbor; particularly fun because my maiden name was Roche.

This is a small store that you see when entering Orcas Island by the ferry terminal.
Have a blessed Tuesday; I'm getting ready to quilt because snow is predicted for tonight and all day tomorrow.
Hugs, Noreen

Yesterday was a very special day for our family because our oldest girl,Carrie, turned 32.  We did not celebrate it due to illnesses but will celebrate it on Thursday evening with her hubby and her brother-in-law who both have birthdays on the same day.  But lest anyone think we didn't acknowledge her special day, we did but I had planned to do a post about the party later this week.

The above photo is Carrie with her youngest daughter, Miss A, just last month.  Carrie has always been such a joy; it's been a true privilege to be her mom.  Mature beyond her years from an early age, she was my sunshine and also my encourager.  A young girl of deep faith who grew into a mature women, wife, mother; deeply rooted in her relationship with Jesus-a blessing to all who know her.

Carrie is a deep thinker and has a calm temperament just like her daddy.  So my girl, just so you think I didn't want to honor you-I do, because you have been such an incredible daughter. 

May our Lord richly bless you this year with all your hearts desires.

Love you! Mom

Good morning my friends, I hope you all had a delightful weekend enjoying our fall weather.  We got back home Saturday evening and as the old saying goes "There's no place like home".  Hubby and I had a wonderful vacation and made lots of memories; we hope to get back to San Juan Island again and maybe even Leavenworth some day. 

I want to introduce you to my best friend from California, Barbara.  We've known Barb and her hubby Jim for approximately 20 years now; I had to stop and figure that one out and when we moved into the house next door to them.  We didn't get to know them for several years but once we did,  Barb and I hit it off with our love of quilting.  From then on we spent time together pursuing our favorite hobby; we joined a large Quilt Guild and began to go on a yearly quilt retreat.  She has been there when we had our grands and also when I lost my sister; always an encourager.  Barbara is a prolific quilter, especially applique and continues to grow in her skills.  She was always there for me when I struggled with patterns and figuring out how to make something work.  There isn't very much I miss about living in California, maybe the trees and landscapes but Barb is right there at the top, with my family.  We all try to go on a trip every couple of years together and this one was a wonderful way to celebrate her turning sixty.  Sixty you say?  Yes indeed, although she looks just like she did 20 years ago.  I wanted to give her something special for her birthday and one of my blogging buddies, Sandy at http://sandy-faithhopeandlove.blogspot.com/  sells hand-made necklaces that are so beautiful, so I knew I wanted one for Barb.  You can see that she is wearing it in this photo.  We were on our way out to a dinner theater, Teatro Zanzinni, and so hubby got our photo together.  Barbara absolutely loved it and it was even more special for me because another blogger made it.  HAPPY BIRTHDAY BARBARA!

I will be sharing more photos this week; we loved the Islands of Washington but I love the warm weather we've had here.  Wednesday we are supposed to have our first snow and many of us aren't ready for it.
No matter what you are doing today, cherish life.  Blessings, Noreen

Happy Happy Friday dear ones! We are now in Seattle, the weather is overcast and dreary but today we hit the ground running. We plan to visit Pikes Marketplace, the underground city, the Pioneer museum, the Space museum and then tonight we go to Teatro Zanzinni for a dinner show. I am not a big city girl and feel ready to head home but we should have a fun day today.  I'm sorry for not getting by to visit you all but know that I will be trying to catch up Sunday and Monday.  I've missed hearing what is happening with you all, hope you are enjoying fall weather.  Blessings on your weekend my friends.  Noreen

 Good Morning and Happy Thankful Thursday! I'm so glad to be able to post; cell reception has been almost nil(I'm missing my girls and grands) but today we head back to Seattle and I'll be able to connect again.  We have been having an amazing time!

 My BFF from California-Barb is on the right.  It has been so good to spend time together, it is almost like living next door to each other again. I am thankful for her friendship and love and time spent vacationing with them.  I think this has been the best vacation yet!

 I am thankful for my hubby's photography skills-he has an artist's eye just like his dad did.  I am thankful for him. 

 I am thankful for the beauty of God's glorious creation.  I am thankful for how He made us each different and unique.  I am thankful that this trip has given my man such pleasure by being near the water and because I am such a country girl at heart, seeing wide open areas has blessed me as well.

 Isn't this bay and the home beyond just breathtaking!  If I could I would have a place like this for hubby and I-one that would meet those needs to be near the ocean and one that would meet my love of country.

 Yesterday we went to Orcas Island Pottery and it was incredible.  When I was in high school and college I love pottery and took many classes so this was quite fun for me. Oh the colors of the glazes were so vibrant and beautiful.  They had many fun little outdoorsy gifts as well-the clams were just one expression.  Aren't they fun!

This tree house was also on the property and reminded me of Swiss Family Robinson; knew our two grandsons would love it.  They are planning on building a fort in their yard and if they had some huge trees I could picture them wanting this type of fort.
Please go by and visit Lynn at http://unequalmarriage.typepad.com/ for more TT posts. 
We've had lovely weather but it rained during the night and this morning is drizzly.  Hopefully Seattle  will be nice as well.
Hugs and love, Noreen

Good morning dear friends, Happy Wednesday to you!

We are now on Orcas island and although pretty, I so prefer San Juan island.  Pictured above, hubby and I at Roche Harbor, San Juan.  We have had wonderful weather but rain is in the forecast for tonight and the rest of the week.  We leave tomorrow for Seattle and we are also looking forward to spending some time there.  If I could I would have spent more time on San Juan and I do hope to return someday. 

 From left to right-John, myself, Barb and Jim.

For our granddaughter Miss S-photos of a seal since we didn't see any Orcas.
Have a blessed day.  Noreen

Good Morning Friends,  Just wanted to share some photos from the barnyard where we are staying.  These photos will bring lasting memories of a fun vacation, in the dead of winter.  Love this momma goat-aren't here markings just beautiful!

 I love these guys-so very cute.  I think I would love to shear their wool as well and knit lots of sweaters-o.k. I'd give it to my girls and have them knit lots of sweaters.

 The colors here are amazing, even if there are no Aspens.  San Juan island reminds me so much of Maine.

Love his expression.

This morning I received this in my inbox and thought I'd share it with you.  It is referencing my life verse and I  love the encouragement it offers.  Maybe it will encourage you today as well.

SMALL STRAWS IN A SOFT WIND by Marsha Burns -- 10/18/11:
You are My offspring, says the Lord. You belong to Me. The past days, months, or even years of struggle are becoming a thing of the past as I prepare you for this time of new things. Refuse to allow the fears, disappointments and failures of the past to dictate your current course. Allow Me to bring forth a transformation. I will heal the brokenness of the past and give you new hope for the future.
Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.

Today we are heading to Orcas island; looking forward to exploring there too.  This has been a wonderful place to visit and I'd definitely come back again.  Have a blessed day!  Noreen

Happy Monday Friends; greetings from beautiful San Juan island.  I am in awe of the beauty of this area; it is so quaint and charming and reminds me of Maine.  We are staying at a lovely B&B, a working farm complete with chickens, goats, horses, llamas and birds.  We arrived Saturday, late afternoon, and got settled before going to dinner; afterwards we came back and played one of the games we brought with us. It is so good to be with our friends, catching up and laughing.  Yesterday we hiked, went to Roche Harbor-which I absolutely love, especially the name because it was my maiden name.  We shopped, had lunch and then drove to more state parks on the island.  The weather was perfect, albeit a bit cool but in the afternoon the sun came out.  Our friend, Barb, has a pedometer and we walked about 8,000 steps or close to 4 miles.  I will be sharing photos of our time each day....enjoy.

 This was taken from the ferry on Saturday-isn't the water just incredible.

 This watercolor is on one of the living room walls and is of the Inn.  One of my loves is animals and being here refreshes my soul.

 When these guys saw us, they came running-undoubtedly thinking we would feed them.  They are adorable.

This is the lighthouse that I showed in Friday's post.  I am not one who likes cold, damp weather so I'm thankful we don't live in this climate but oh my how beautiful it is. 

Today we are having a leisurely morning and will go down to another area and then into town for more shopping or window shopping.  This has been on my "bucket list" of places to see but I would love to come back again.  Tomorrow we take the ferry to Orcas for another couple of days.

Have a wonderful day~Noreen

Happy Friday to you dear friends.  I hope your week has gone well and that your weekend will be filled with joy and laughter,grace and mercy.  Hubby and I are flying out to meet our best friends from California for a get-away. Although Barb doesn't realize it, we are wanting this to be so very special because she turns a magic number at the end of the month.  I'm wondering if you might have a guess as to where we are going? Isn't this so scenic and beautiful?  Hopefully I'll be posting lots of photos of our trip.

When you look at the next photo you will know where we are headed.

This photo of Orcas Island is courtesy of TripAdvisor

This photo of Orcas Island is courtesy of TripAdvisor

We have had some cooler days here lately and I hope that it is preparing me for the damp weather to come. This trip has been on my list of "must do" for many years and we should have a great time.  I will be popping in on you all and hoping to post while we are away. 
Blessings to each of you!  Noreen

Good morning friends, Today's topic is Honoring God; please visit my friends Lynn and Dineen at

http://unequalmarriage.typepad.com/  to see more TT posts.

This morning I want to be intentional in honoring God is every area of my life. I am thankful that we have so many examples in His word of people who did this.  My mind immediately goes to David, even when he was in the midst of a mistake or trail, he honored His God. 

I am thankful that even when we are at our lowest or weakest point, we can still choose to honor Him.

I am thankful that as we honor God, He will lift us up.

I am thankful that He sees every tear we shed and keeps them.  I am thankful that He knows all of our days and promises grace in our time of need.

I am thankful for His loving-kindness that endures forever.

Stop and take a moment to count your blessings, you'll be changed.

Hugs, Noreen

Happy Wednesday

Hi all~I know I'm posting late today but finally got out walking again and then had to run for a hair cut.  So how are you today?  Changes are in the wind here, both season wise and in other ways too.  Our Reggie is doing alright, each day is a day of grace. Isn't that true about life though?  Hope all is well with you.
Tomorrow I have my ladies study, can't wait.  It is balm to my soul.
No matter what comes at you, remember things could be worse for all of us-so be thankful.
Hugs, Noreen

Today's truth again is just so timely and relevant to all that is happening in my life currently. I hope this blesses you too.

SMALL STRAWS IN A SOFT WIND by Marsha Burns -- 10/11/11:


Quiet your soul and settle into the responsibilities given to you for this time. It will be through integrity and excellence that you will achieve what I have set before you. Keep in mind that the realm of the Spirit will be reflected in your natural environment. Keep the faith and refuse to allow the enemy to get you off course. Do not neglect your times of intimacy with Me, says the Lord, for I am your glory and strength.

Colossians 3:22 Bondservants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh, not with eyeservice, as men-pleasers, but in sincerity of heart, fearing God.
 
Blessings, Noreen

Happy Monday Friends,  I hope you had a wonderful weekend filled with the riches of His glory. On Friday, I spent the day with my good friend, Cyndi, who has been in Colorado for three weeks dog sitting.  We ran errands, went to lunch and even went to a thrift store.  She is leaving today so I was glad to spend a bit more time with her.  Usually I see her several days each week when she's here but for some reason this visit was different and I only saw her twice.  Autumn officially made its way to us on Saturday, as we had rain and stormy weather for the entire day; I only went out once in the evening but was able to just stay warm and cozy throughout the day.  Yesterday my honey got home from a week long trip and I'm so glad he's back-so is he, because it was a trip to help his brother move some of his belongings from his mom's house to his house.  All I know is that I'm glad to have him home. 
Today I want to share the post I got in my inbox this morning because again it is so timely.  Enjoy! Noreen
"THE TRUMPET by Bill Burns -- 10/10/11:
Arise today. No longer assume the position of a beggar. Arise as a son of God. Arise to new strength. Arise to a position of new faith. Arise to a position of power and confidence, for such is yours in the kingdom of God. For, My kingdom is a kingdom of strength, a kingdom of power, and kingdom of joy. It is a kingdom in which you should establish your rights; the right to be healed, the right to be provided for, the right to be delivered and the right to receive the strength and joy of the Lord. Allow My peace to become your peace that you may abide in peace in these days of tribulation, in these the days of the heartache of humanity, in these days of the overturning of the power of man and the establishing of the power of the kingdom of the Most Holy. So, arise, My children. Go up now and become the kings of this age, says the Lord.

SMALL STRAWS IN A SOFT WIND by Marsha Burns -- 10/10/11:
I have indeed set before you opportunities and choices. I would have you choose according to life, truth, and faith. Consider the outcome of your decisions and move in the direction that will bring light and not darkness. Ask for wisdom to choose wisely, says the Lord, for I will give you what you need. Activate your faith, and trust Me in all things.
Psalm 23:1-6 The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the LORD Forever.

Happy Friday To You.  I hope you've had a good week and found much to be thankful for.

As promised today was the day for my giveaway and I'm please to announce that Pam, aka Smiling Granny, won this book.  I know Pam will use it as she does daycare and always has lots of grands around.  Congrat's Pam.  I'll be in contact with you and arrange to get this to you today.

To all my sweet friends~may you walk in the Light of His love this day and may grace and mercy guide your steps.  Happy Weekend to you.
Love, Noreen

Perspective

Today is Thankful Thursday and my good friend Lynn at http://unequalmarriage.typepad.com/ is hosting TT for the month of October.  When I saw her post this morning, I just smiled because I had already determined that this was the area I wanted to focus on today.  Many of us are dealing with all sorts of life issues, some small and some big; look around you, if you aren't impacted in some way by the economy or by a health issue the chances are that you know someone who is.  In these uncertain times in the world economy, it is very easy to start to panic but I want to challenge you today to look around and see those who are literally dealing with life and death situations-somehow it gives us a good dose of a reality check.  If you read my post yesterday, you know it was about a little boy named Tripp who has a rare and  awful disease.  My heart broke as I read Tripp's story but it also made me realize I have no reason to ever have a pity party.
This week in my "In" box I got two daily postings that reminded me Who is really in control of my life.  I read one to a good friend and she said I needed to post it, so I am.  May these encourage you today as they've encouraged me this week.

SMALL STRAWS IN A SOFT WIND by Marsha Burns -- 10/4/11:
Refuse to be overwhelmed by the circumstances and situations that you are now facing and having to deal with. Maintain your peace and stay calm, for I will certainly take you through this time with great grace. Know that you are well able to accomplish what is before you to do even when you doubt your abilities. Put your confidence in Me, says the Lord. I can do what you cannot.
Mark 10:27 But Jesus looked at them and said, "With men it is impossible, but not with God; for with God all things are possible."

SMALL STRAWS IN A SOFT WIND by Marsha Burns -- 10/5/11:
Expect breakthrough in areas that have seemed overwhelming and impossible. Trust Me to open up the avenue of success. I answer your unwavering and patient faith. Refuse to get discouraged or give up; you've been through too much to turn back now. Stay the course, and let strength and courage prevail, says the Lord.
Isaiah 45:2 I will go before you and make the crooked places straight; I will break in pieces the gates of bronze and cut the bars of iron.

Remember if God is for us, who can be against us.
Have a blessed day.  Noreen
Don't forget about my book giveaway tomorrow.

Please Pray For Tripp

Good Morning Friends,  Most of you know that I love children, especially my own grandchildren.  I have worked with preschoolers since I was in high school and although I am no longer teaching, there is nothing that grips my heart more quickly than a story about young children.  There is also nothing I love to do more than pray for others and yesterday I came across this story and was so moved by it, that I just have to share it with you.  Below I have copied the introduction to Tripp's story; I would highly suggest that you take a minute and go read about this little guy and his remarkable momma. 

"Tripp was born on May 14, 2009. He was diagnosed with a rare genetic skin disease called "EB." Any type of friction on his skin or mucous membranes causes blisters. They told us he would not live to be a year old. Every day he amazes us by his strength. He is a fighter and with all he has been through, he has never given up. He is the strongest person I know. Tripp wakes up each morning with a smile on his face. Every day spent with him is a blessing. God has a special plan for him. I'm just blessed to be able to witness that plan."

This is part of yesterday's post and it gripped my heart.

Monday, October 3, 2011Letters from... Me.

"Dear Tripp,


I'm sorry these past few days have been so rough, bub. It's not fair that you have to hurt. It's not fair that you can't do the things that normal kids get to do, or that you have to take a bath in tremendous amounts of pain with raw, open sores all over your body. It's not fair that every single breath you breathe is like work and a struggle to stay alive. It's not fair that as you lay next to me right now, you're on so much medicine but yet you are itching all over and completely miserable trying to sleep. You never catch a break. A good day for you would be someone's worst nightmare. I'm praying hard, buddy, that I make the right decisions coming up soon. I pray that we can find out what's going on with you (this time) and that it's something that we can fix (temporarily). But if I'm going to be honest with you... I'm praying for a miracle. Because we are getting to the point where your sores and infections are taking over and there's not many options left to treat them without sticking you and putting you in the hospital. I said I wasn't going to do that to you. But that will be the hardest decision of my life. I hope you'll help me through it. You're so brave, bub.

I love you."

I haven't met Courtney or had the privilege to meet Tripp but this could be my family, your family, the neighbors next door.  I say that we bombard the heavens with prayers for healing of this little guy and grace for the family.  Won't you join me?  Please go visit Courtney and view more of this story.
http://randycourtneytripproth.blogspot.com/

Hugs, Noreen

Book Review and Giveaway

Recently I was contacted by the Simmons family and asked if I would preview this children's book and post about it.  Being a former early childhood educator, a former homeschooler, mom and  nana I gladly agreed.
I want to state that I am not being paid to post this review.  I contacted Emily Simmons and asked what her objective was for this book and below is her reply.
"The books are aimed at all children, either those being read to, or those who read.  I think especially that elementary age children will enjoy it most.  My siblings range in age from 1 to 22, and while they all enjoy the story the first time, the 3, 5, 8 & 10 year olds enjoy it repeatedly.  These books are not aimed at non Christians, nor specifically at Christians, but rather all children.  They also are not necessarily for publicly schooled children - I and my siblings have been homeschooled all of our lives, many who have bought and enjoy the book attend Christian schools, as well.  The lesson of the first book is simply doing right, no matter what others around you may do - integrity.  Thus the verse - "Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin." ~James 4:17.".
I have to say this book is bright and cheery looking.  I am impressed that a 19 yr old could have already written 22 childrens books.  The first time I read the book was when I just received it and as an adult I enjoyed it but was surprised at the length of it.  Remember, I have taught young children, ages 2-6, for approximately 30+ yrs.  The second time I read the book was to my three granddaughters and I will say my experience with them was quite different. I guess you might say I had my "nana" hat on and I saw the story from a completely different viewpoint; in fact there were parts I skipped because I didn't think they were age appropriate.  The granddaughters I read it to were ages 6,4 and 3 and I will say I felt it was too mature for them.  Let me tell you that they read from many types of books including classics; the 6 yr old is a great reader but I know the younger girls lost interest.  Our family are conservative homeschoolers and their choices of literature encourage godly behaviors and choices. They do not watch t.v. and limit what videos they watch; in fact many of the videos have to do with homemaking and crafts. While the story was encouraging good choices, there are some attitudes in this book that my daughter did not think were appropriate for her young children to read about, i.e. rolling of the eyes etc. There are attitudes portrayed in the story that my daughter works very hard to avoid.  There is a section on the last page filled with verses about eternal life and our Savior. This is a wonderful opportunity to share the gospel with those who may not have heard it before.  My opinion is that while there are many good teaching points in this book, one would be wise to preview it first and see if it is appropriate for your family.  My daughter did not feel it was appropriate for her children.  If I were still teaching in a large daycare center, I would probably utilize this story and I felt it should be geared toward 8-10 yr olds.   Again, I applaud Emily for cultivating her love of writing.  This book may be perfect for your family, it is creative and engaging; it just wasn't for ours.
If you are interested in this book, please leave me a comment; if you are a follower let me know in another comment and I'll enter your name twice.  In you would like to order this, you can find it at www.facebook.com/SpotThePuppy   I will draw the winner on Friday.
Blessings, Noreen

Rocky Mountain National Park



Last Wednesday hubby and I ventured up to the high places-i.e. Rocky Mountain National Park.  This is one great fellow that we saw.  I was surprised at the low number of Elk we saw, only a couple of herds.

Mainly I wanted to see the colors; although they aren't at their peak yet, they are beginning to change.

We drove the Peak To Peak highway to see if there were differences and there were-much more color.  We passed this church and I don't remember having noticed it before.  So pretty and the colors surrounding it were so vivid.

More Birthday Fun

 Friday night our oldest daughter and her family held a birthday party for Miss F. Here you see Miss O sitting with the birthday girl.

 Miss O, Miss S-Kim's oldest and the birthday girl Miss F.

 Our youngest daughter Kim with her youngest Miss A.

 Little Miss D who just celebrated her birthday with our Peanut.

 Our oldest Carrie with her youngest, another Miss A.

 Grandson J with his grandpa.

Our girl wanted cowgirl things for her birthday so we gave her the pink boots and pink hat.  Kim's family gave her a cap gun with a pink handle.  She was so excited to get these presents and had to strut her stuff.

Another incredible birthday cake; I think my girls got their creative talent from their dad.
We had a wonderful evening together. 
Have a blessed Sunday dear ones.