Prayer of the Week- Learning How to Pray

Dear Lord,
I am just starting out learning how to pray. I have studied different books on praying, so I am learning. I need to go with my instincts and heart, right? I want that relationship with you that I see others having. I need you, please show me how and what to do. In Jesus’ name, amen

Prayer of the Week- My Family

Dear Lord,
Thank You for my wonderful husband and children. I am truly blessed to have them in my life. I am thankful every day for a husband who works two jobs so I can stay home with the children. He even comes home and does the dishes and spends time with me. My children are loving and kind. They play well with each other and are considerate to me. Thank You for loving me. Amen.

Prayer of the Week- New Business Venture

Dear Lord,
Thank You for the day you gave me. I am starting out on a new business venture and I am unsure where and what to do. There is so much information on the Internet. How can I focus on what I need to do? What area should I go into? I know it needs to be in Your name, but what? Please help me know what product I should develop in your name. Amen

Prayer of the Week for Children- School

Dear Lord,

Thank You for the new school year. It was nice seeing all my friends again and making some new ones today. Please help me get good grades this year. I think I am going to need help with spelling, adding and history. I don't I need help for anything else. Amen.

Prayer of the Week for Children- Loving God

Dear God,

My father loves You.

My mother loves You.

My big sister loves You.

My little brother loves You.

My grandpa love You.

My Grandma loves You.

My cousins and aunts and uncles love You.

I love You the most.

Amen

Prayer of the Week for Children- My Behavior

Dear God,

I was a not a good child today and I upset Mommy. Now she has a bad headache. Can you help her by the time Daddy gets home? If Mommy's headache doesn't get better then she will be grouchy and then Daddy will be too. Please help me be better tomorrow so this doesn't happen again. Amen.

Prayer of the Week for Children- Saying Prayers for My Brother

Dear God,

I am saying this prayer for my brother too. He is only two and can't talk yet. Please bless Mommy and Daddy. Please bless my brother and me. Please bless my pet hamster. Please bless everyone. Amen

Prayer of the Week for Children- Saying Prayers for My Sister

Dear God,

I am saying prayers tonight for my sister and myself, because she has a sore throat. Please take care of her and make her throat better in time for her concert tomorrow. Amen.

Western Hamburger

Western Hamburger

1 pound hamburger
1 teaspoon sage
½ teaspoon mixed herbs
½ teaspoon accent
½ teaspoon sugar
salt and pepper

Mix meat and spice well
Add:
1 chopped onion
1 tablespoon pickle relish
2 tablespoons
2 tablespoons capers
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 beaten egg

Let set for 1 hour in refrigerator before forming into patties. Cook well and enjoy.

Prayer of the Week for Children- Rain and Playing

Dear Lord,

Thank you for the nice weather you have been giving us. I have been enjoying playing outside almost every day. I really want to be able to go to the carnival on Friday. Could you please make it rain before then, so I don't have to water the lawn? Amen

Sugar Cookies

Sugar Cookies

1 cup shortening- half butter and half margarine works well
1/3 cup brown sugar
1/3 cup white sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cream of tartar
2 ¼ cup flour

Cream shortening and sugars; add egg, vanilla, and combine dry ingredients. Drop by teaspoons on non-greased cookie sheets; flatten with fork. Bake at 350° for 10 minutes. Cool on wire rack. Makes 4 dozen.

Prayer of the Week for Children- Thank You For My Family

Dear Lord,

Thank You for my family. I love my mother, father, sister and brother. They are the best. They are always kind and loving to me. They help me when I need it. Please continue to bless them. Amen.

Stroganoff

Stroganoff

1 ½ cups steak (cut into cubes)
1 medium onion
¼ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon lemon juice
¼ teaspoon garlic
1 cube of beef bouillon
slosh of wine
1-1 ¼ cups of sour cream

Saute the steak and onions. Combine with the rest of the ingredients and simmer 30 or longer. Before you put it on the table stir in the sour cream. Add as much as you would like. Serves 4

Prayer of the Week for Children- The Weather

Dear Lord,

Thank you for the flowers that are blooming because of the warm temperatures, sunshine and rain. You even fooled the weather man. He said that it was supposed to be cold and the possibility of snow. Amen.

Special Upside Down Cake

Special Upside Down Cake

1 can pie filling (blueberry, apple, or cherry)
1 box white cake mix
½ cup melted butter
½ cup nuts
¼-1/2 cup sugar

In 9x13 pan spread filling, then sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly. Dribble melted butter over, then sprinkle sugar and nuts. Bake 350° for 35-40 minutes until brown. Slower baking at 325° might work better.

Prayer of the Week for Children- Angels

Dear Lord,
Thank You for the angels you have sent to protect us. I have learned about the different kinds of angels. They sound so powerful and awsome. Do we always get the same angel all the time or do different angels protect us at different times? How many angels are there? Thank You for creating them for us. Amen.

Spanish Rice

Spanish Rice

1 ½ cups uncooked rice
12 ounces tomato sauce
1 medium chopped onion
8 strips bacon
½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Fry bacon until crisp. Cook the rice. Sauté onions in the bacon grease. Crumble up the bacon. Combine all the ingredients. Place in a greased pan. Sprinkle with shredded cheese. Bake at 325° for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted. Serves 4. Yum.

Prayer of the Week for Children- Who is smarter

Dear Lord,

Thank you for the weather you have been giving us. Thank you for all of the fun you help me have.

Have you made some people smarter than others? How do we learn who is smarter? My brothers and sisters want to know. Amen

Popsicles

Popsicles

1 package flavored gelatin
1 package powdered drink mix
1 cup sugar
2 cups hot water

Dissolve all the ingredients and add 2 cups cold water. If it is a pre-sweetened powdered drink mix you can eliminate the sugar. Pour into your containers and freeze.

Prayer of the Week for Children- Babies

Dear Lord,

Thank you for the days you give us.

Could you please send us a new baby. This is one cries too much and keeps us up at night. Amen.

Linguine with Clam Sauce

Linguine with Clam Sauce

2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
1 cup milk
dash of salt
1 clove garlic
1 can chopped clams (drained)

Melt the butter, add the flour and cook until light brown. Slowly add the milk, salt and garlic. Add the chopped clams and wait for the sauce to thicken. Serve over cooked linguine. Makes enough for two.

Prayer of the Week- Lord's Prayer

This is my five-year-old son's version of the Lord's Prayer.

Our Father, who are in Heaven hallowed be thy name thy kingdom come thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give is this day, are daily bread Amen.

Hot Chicken Salad

Hot Chicken Salad

2 cups cubed cooked chicken
2 cups thinly sliced celery or ¾ cup peas
½ cup chopped toasted almonds (optional)
½ teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons grated onion
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons lemon juice

Mix all ingredients. Pile lightly in baking dish. Sprinkle with ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese and 1 cup toasted bread cubes. Bake at 450° for 10-15 minutes or until bubbly. Makes 4 servings.

Prayer of the Week- Lord's Prayer

This is my three-year-old daughter's version of the Lord's Prayer.

Thy kingdom come. Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Hallowed be thy done.

Date Bread

Date Bread

4 cups flour
4 teaspoons baking powder
1 cup sugar

Mix and add:
1 cup ground nuts
1 ½ cups chopped dates

Mix and add:
2 eggs
2 cups milk

Pour into greased loaf pan. Makes one large loaf or two smaller loaves. Bake after standing for 20 minutes at 350° for 45-60 minutes. You will know when it is done when you stick in a toothpick and it comes out dry.

Prayer of the Week for Children- Blessings

Dear Lord,
Thank you for the sunny day. Please bless my dog and my house. Bless my sister and my brother, even though they teased me today. Please bless Mommy and Daddy and my family as they come to see us. Please bless the new dishwasher and let it clean the dishes better than the old one. Amen

Banana Split Dessert

Banana Split Dessert

2 cups graham crackers or vanilla wafers (crushed in fine crumbs)
1 cup softened margarine
2 cups powdered sugar
3 bananas
2 ½ cups crushed pineapple or fruit cocktail (well drained)
1 large container cool whip

Melt one stick margarine and mix with crumbs. Place in the bottom of a 9x13 pan. Beat powdered sugar and other stick of margarine at medium speed for no less than 15 minutes. Spread mixture on crumbs. Slice bananas over top. Spread pineapple or fruit cocktail over the top. Cover with cool whip. Garnish with chopped nuts and maraschino cherries. Refrigerate over night. Serves 10-12.

The Great Galaxy Goof by Robert Elmer

The Great Galaxy Goof
By
Robert Elmer
Illustrations By: Paul Turnbaugh
Series: AstroKids, #1
Published By: Bethany House Publishers
Copyrighted: 2000
Number of Pages: 100 pages.
Age Group: first chapter Book (ages 7 and up)
Physical Description: Paperback, 5x7 inches
Extras: Description of next book, lists of books and series from Bethany House Publishers.
About the Book: Lamar “Buzz'” and his family live in the 21st century and are moving to a space station called CLEO-7. He meets Daphne "Deebee'' and Theodore "Tag" on the space shuttle. Deebee is very smart and is able to fix anything, which is good, because Vladimir "Mir" (who lives on the station already) is up to mischief when they arrive at the new station. Deebee changes Buzz’s wrist interface and he accidentally contacts Mir. Mir plans going on getting even. The mess up continues as Buzz has Mir’s zip suit and the two of them are launched in a shuttle. Mir was showing Buzz how he made the drones go crazy. They are Iaunched into space and are unable to get back by themselves. Kumiko "Miko" is able to help them and so does the zipsuit. They get back to the CLEO-7 where Mir apologizes for what he has done.
About the Author: Robert Elmer was born the year after the first Sputnik satellite was launched. He lives with his wife, three kids and dog.
What I Thought: I liked this book. Having the children living in space was a very good idea, because it shows that God’s principles work everywhere. I am glad everyone was able to easily forgive Mir. I really did not like how Mir did so many naughty things to everyone at CLEO-7. I liked the drones. It would be a lot of fun to have some of them to do work around my house.
Would I Recommend: Yes, I would. This book does a very good job of teaching Colossians 3:13, the Bible verse that this book is based on.

Book Review Blog Carnival

Welcome to the May 24, 2009 edition of book review blog carnival. Thank you to everyone who submitted. I really enjoyed reading all of your reviews. You have given me lots of reasons to visit the local library. Please remember to comment and socially bookmark, thank you.

Flea presents Be A Survivor: Book Review: Emergency - This Book Will Save Your Life posted at Be A Survivor.

Eric Gargiulo presents Pro Wrestling Book Review - Tito Santana?s Tales from the Ring posted at CamelClutchBlog.com, saying, "Tito Santana wasn’t known for his talking during his era nor is he now. However, the mild mannered Santana has finally broken his silence and is telling his story. Tito joins the ranks of his brethren in releasing his autobiography. Tito Santana has won gold again with Tales From The Ring."

book reviews

John Wen presents New Book Released. It shows you 8 ways to save your home posted at Providing the Best Home Selling Tips Hard to Find Anywhere to Help You Sell Your Home Fast at Highest Possible Price, saying, "This is the only book available that tells you 8 ways to save your home and credit, 4 ways to stay in your home payment free, and 7 ways to get cash from your home foreclosure legally. Now it is available at amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, Booksmillion, AbeBooks, Biblio, StudentStore, TextBookRUs"

Bart's Bookshelf presents Ysabel by Guy Gavriel Kay posted at Bart's Bookshelf.

Jennifer Roland presents Book Review: The Forest of Hands and Teeth posted at Pop Culture Curmudgeon.

jim presents Getting Out of Debt by Ken Clark posted at Blueprint for Financial Prosperity.

Capt. Benjamin presents “It’s Your Ship” by Captain D. Michael Abrashoff posted at Leadership Type, saying, "Captain D. Michael Abrashoff shares his leadership skill in turning one of the Navy’s most underperforming war vessels into the “best damn ship in the Navy”."

Tracey presents Book Review: The Principle of the Path posted at GIRLS TO GROW.

Surbhi presents To Kill a Mocking Bird by Harper Lee posted at The Viewspaper » The Viewspaper.

Silicon Valley Blogger presents Book Authors Among Us: Finance Books By Bloggers posted at The Digerati Life, saying, "Thanks!"

Khan Ben presents Don’t Quell Your Questions posted at Higher Education and Career Blog, saying, "A book encourages us to ask away."

Jack Cabbage presents JACK CABBAGE: Book Review: The Five C's of Cinematography by Joseph Mascelli posted at JACK CABBAGE, saying, "Filmmaking and digital video expert Jack Cabbage takes a look at the 5 C's of Cinematography."

Michael Miles presents Effortless Abundance posted at Effortless Wealth and Abundance.

ChristianPF presents Sound Mind Investing Handbook Review posted at Money in the Bible Christian Personal Finance Blog, saying, "This is a review of Austin Pryor's Sound Mind Investing Handbook..."

Mahendra presents Digital Photography Expert Techniques - Tutorial eBook posted at Mahendrafokus.co.cc.

Ray presents Best Books About Making Money posted at Money Blue Book.

Silicon Valley Blogger presents 10,001 Ways To Live Large On A Small Budget posted at The Digerati Life, saying, "Thanks!"

books

stephane meer presents BEGINNING PIANO [music concentration] posted at AUDIO BOOK, saying, "Musical Fantasy Audio Book in Video"

children's books

Jenny presents Momma Loves Her Little Son posted at the so called me.

Roberta Gibson presents Wrapped in Foil · Linnea in Monet’s Garden: A Children’s Book Review posted at Wrapped in Foil.

fiction

KerrieS presents WRITING CLASS, Jincy Willett posted at MYSTERIES in PARADISE, saying, "Since when does taking a writing class become dangerous? Crime fiction"

KerrieS presents THE POISONING IN THE PUB, Simon Brett posted at MYSTERIES in PARADISE, saying, "#10 in the Fethering series proves that Simon Brett has not lost his touch in cozy crime fiction."

Clark Bjorke presents The Philosopher's Apprentice posted at I'll Never Forget the Day I Read a Book!, saying, "Robert Morrow steals a few ideas from Robert Pirsig, Franz Kafka, Robert A. Heinlein and Jules Verne to create a pager turner of an adventure story about philosophy."

KerrieS presents THE SITTAFORD MYSTERY posted at MYSTERIES in PARADISE, saying, "Table turning reveals a man has been murdered in this, Agatha Christie's 11th novel."

Sarah at SmallWorld presents Book Review: Cutting for Stone posted at SmallWorld Reads.

Nicole B. presents Reunion, by Therese Fowler posted at Linus's Blanket.

Josh Hanagarne presents Book Review: The Terror posted at World's Strongest Librarian, saying, "The Terror is one of the scariest books I've ever read. It made me cold and glad that I've never had scurvy or resorted to cannibalism. And the Poe references are brilliant!"

KerrieS presents PUBLISH OR PERISH, Margot Kinberg posted at MYSTERIES in PARADISE, saying, "Crime fiction set in a small American university. Graduate student's world turns sour and murder is the result. Debut author worth following."

non fiction

thebarefootbadger presents My Top 8 Food-Related Books, Movies, and Articles posted at The Barefoot Badger.

Diana Hall presents God is back. posted at damascusmoments.

Amy Hobbs presents Billionaire's Vinegar Amy Reads Good Books posted at Amy Reads Good Books.

GrrlScientist presents Why Evolution is True posted at Living the Scientific Life, saying, "A review of Jerry Coyne's wonderful book about evolutionary theory, which the most up-to-date and one of the most clearly written books about evolution that is currently available."

Nicole B. presents Nine Lives: Death and Life in New Orleans, by Dan Baum posted at Linus's Blanket.

Gene Simms presents The 80/20 Principle - The Secret to Success by Achieving More with Less [Koch] posted at Accumulate Profit Margin Invest Destroy, saying, "Now this book is 11 years old, but I decided to pick it up anyway and it’s one of the best books I’ve read for a long time."

novel

Keira presents Review: The Traitor’s Wife by Susan Higginbotham posted at Love Romance Passion, saying, "This book is at the crossroads between genres. Part romance and part historical, Traitor's Wife, weaves fiction and fact together."

Jeanne presents Nineteen Minutes posted at Necromancy Never Pays, saying, "This begins as a review and ends as a musing on how we hear the voice of conscience!"

That concludes this edition. Submit your blog article to the next edition of book review blog carnival using our carnival submission form. Past posts and future hosts can be found on our blog carnival index page. Technorati tags: book review blog carnival, blog carnival.

Prayer of the Week for Children- Allowance

Dear Lord,

Thank you for the day you gave us. Could you please help Daddy realize I need a raise in my allowance? I want to be able to give more to the church.

Amen

Beer Bread

Beer Bread

3 cups flour
3 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 pinch salt
1 can or bottle of beer

Mix all of the dry ingredients together. Slowly stir in the can or bottle of beer. Pour into a greased loaf pan. Bake at 375° for 45-60 minutes.

Prayer of the Week for Children- Birthday

Dear Lord,

Thank you for this day. I would like a rainbow tomorrow, because it is my birthday.

Amen.

Mom's Best Meat Loaf

Mom’s Best Meat Loaf

1½ pounds ground beef
¾ cup rolled oats (uncooked) or dried bread that has been torn into small chunks
¼ cup chopped onion
¼ teaspoon pepper
1 egg
¾ cup milk

Sauce:
1/3 cup catsup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon mustard
stir together

Combine all the ingredients except for the ground beef and let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes so the rolled oats or bread has a chance to become softened. After soaking add the ground beef and pack into a loaf pan. Pour sauce over the meat loaf. Bake at 350° for 1 hour. Let stand 5 minutes before slicing. Serves about four people.

Nine-Story Pagodas & Double-decker Buses: Travels in Hong Kong by Gilbert Morris

Nine-Story Pagodas & Double-decker Buses: Travels in Hong Kong
By
Gilbert Morris
Series: Adventures of the Kerrigan Kids, #4
Published By: Moody Press
Copyrighted: 2001
Number of Pages: 121 pages
Age Group: 8-11 years old
Type of Book: Christian Juvenile Fiction
Physical Description: Paperback, 5x7 inches
Extras: List of other juvenile books by Gilbert Morris and published by Moody Press
About the Book: Twelve-year-old Duffy, 9-year-old Pearl, 11-year-old Seth and 10-year-old Juan are looking forward to their trip to Hong Kong with their father, Mr. Kerrigan. It is at church that the kids learn the story about the Good Samaritan and they learn that they should be good to those who are different. When the Kerrigan family is aboard the plane they befriend two children, Saun and Ping Li who are on their way to live with their grandparents. The family spends a lot of time with Lis. The Kerrigans teach Saun, Ping and their grandparents about praying, Bible and Jesus. All the Lis are glad to have been introduced to Jesus. Duffy is sure that God sent them to Hong Kong to teach them about God. The Kerrigans learned that anybody can be a Good Samaritan.
What I Thought: I enjoyed this book. I have never thought of the story of the Good Samaritan in this way before. I think it is important for all of us to remember the story of the Good Samaritan and remember to always be good to those who are different from us. Every time I am introduced to someone I may not want to be friends with or an unbeliever I am going to be a Good Samaritan, so I can be like the Kerrigans.
Would I recommend: Yes.

The Read and Share Bible DVD Volume 1

I have been having a really busy week and will have a picture book review for you tomorrow. Please click here to go to A Peek at My Bookshelf for a review of The Read and Share Bible DVD Volume 1 Please enjoy the review. Deena, thank you for the review.

Prayer of the Week- Father, We Thank Thee by Ralph Waldo Emerson

Since it is spring in my little part of the world, I wanted to share this poem with you for my Prayer of the Week. As I read it to my children, it seemed to fit so well.

Father, We Thank Thee
By Ralph Waldo Emerson

For flowers that bloom about our feet,
Father, we thank Thee.
For tender grass so fresh, so sweet,
Father, we thank Thee.
For the song of bird and hum of bee,
For all things fair we hear or see,
Father in heaven, we thank Thee.

For blue of stream and blue of sky,
Father, we thank Thee.
For pleasant shade of branches high,
Father, we thank Thee.
For fragrant air and cooling breeze,
For beauty of the blooming trees,
Father in heaven, we thank Thee.

For this new morning with its light,
Father, we thank Thee.
For rest and shelter of the night,
Father, we thank Thee
For health and food, for love and friends,
For everything Thy goodness sends,
Father in heaven, we thank Thee.

Apple Dapple Cake

Apple Dapple Cake

1 ½ cups oil
2 cups sugar
3 eggs
3 cups flour
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon baking soda
3 cups slice apple
1 ½ cups nuts

Sift cinnamon, nutmeg and soda with flour. Mix all the ingredients together. Bake at 350° for 1 hour and 15 minutes in a 9x13 pan.

Icing
1 cup brown sugar
¼ cup milk
½ cup oil

Bring to a boil and cook for 4 minutes, remove from heat and beat until creamy. Pour over hot cake.

The Case of the Chewable Worms by Bill Myers

The Case of the Chewable Worms
By
Bill Myers
Series: Book number 2 in Secret Agent

Dingledorf…and his trusty dog, Splat
Published By: Tommy Nelson
Copyright: 2002
Number of Pages: 88 pages
Age Group: 7-10 year old boys
Type of Book: Christian Fiction
Physical Description: Small paperback with large print
Extras: The illustrations were done by Meredith Johnson and were very funny. There is a quote from the International Children’s Bible at the beginning of the book from Galatians 6:9-10. About the Book: Bernie Dingledorf (Secret Agent Dingledorf), Priscilla and IQ are back for another adventure, this time involving B.A.D.D. (Bungling Agents Dedicated to Destruction). Bernie and his friends along with the Agency need to keep B.A.D.D. from making people eat habit-forming worms. The adventure starts when Bernie and his friends go to school and the kids are having worm races. It gets even stranger when his mom serves his family spaghetti made with worms. Bernie really does not want to help everybody else and ignores the Agency, because he has his own problems. One of the B.A.D.D. agents takes Priscilla and Bernie does his best to help her. There is a fight in a mall fish store and as Priscilla is being forced to eat a worm Splat (Bernie’s dog) breaks this fish tanks. The fish start eating the worms. The B.A.D.D. agent tells Bernie to mind his own business and Bernie says people are his business. Bernie tells the agent that it is our responsibility to help others.
About the Author: Bill Myers has written over 70 books and his films have won over 40 awards. He is also the author of the McGee and Me series.
What I Thought: I thought this book was really neat. I always enjoy reading a book that is fun, but has a good message, like helping others. The best part was in the last chapter when Bernie realizes that it is our responsibility to help others. I thought that in this book Bernie realized that he now has a life dedicated to helping others.
Would I recommend: Yes, I would recommend this book, because it helps the reader learn how life does not revolve around them. It is about other people too.

Song of Creation by Paul Goble

Song of Creation
Written and Illustrated
Paul Goble
Published By: Erdmans Books for Young Readers
Copyrighted: 2004
Number of pages: 29 pages
Age Group: All ages
Type of Book: Christian Fiction
Physical Description: Hardback, 9x12 inches
About the Book: The text for this book comes from The Book of Common Prayer. Most of the text of the book is as follows; " 0 all my ancestors bless you the lord: praise him and magnify him forever.” In the rest of the text, the word, "ancestors" would be changed to plants, animals and weather from the American scene. The illustrations are done in watercolor and just pop from the pages. The most interesting illustration was that of the yellow iris.
About the Author: Paul Goble lives in Rapid City, South Dakota and has won a Caldecott medal for his book, The Girl who Loved wild Horses.
What My Children Thought: My five-year-old son and three-year-old daughter loved this book and recommend it to everyone. Their favorite picture was of the redpolls. My daughter was really taken with this book. The only thing she didn't like was the forest fire,
What I Liked: I liked this entire book. The illustrations were my favorite.
What I Disliked: Nothing.
Would I Recommend: Yes.

Prayer of the Week- Inspiration From Others

Dear Lord,
Thank You very much for a warm, sunny weekend. I am so grateful that it is spring. I enjoy the flowers and the new leaves on the trees.

Thank You for inspiring people to write wonderful books in your name. I have learned so much from the Bible, young children's books, young adult and adult. Please continue to be with me while I learn from others. Help me show other people what has been shown to me.

In Your name, Amen.

Cinnamon Orange Sugarless Cookies

Cinnamon Orange Sugarless Cookies

1 ¾ cup flour
2 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon cinnamon
¾ cup orange juice
½ cup less 1 Tablespoon oil
1 egg
½ cup nuts
½ cup nuts

Mix dry ingredients, add remaining ingredients and mix well. Bake at 375 degrees for 15-20 minutes. Enjoy!!!

I hope everyone enjoys these Cinnamon Orange Sugarless Cookies

Cara's Beach Party Disaster by Elaine Schulte

Cara’s Beach Party Disaster
By
Elaine L. Schulte
Series: The Twelve Candles Club #3
Published By: Bethany House Publishers
Copyrighted: 1993
Type of Book: Christian Fiction
Physical Description: Paperback, 5x7 inches
About the Book: Twelve-year-old Cara has problems at a beach party near her home in Santa Rosita Estates in California and she learns what true friends are like. Cara is a member of the Twelve Candles Club (they are all twelve) and they are all at her house for a movie and party. Cara's half-sister, Paige, picks out a movie and it turns out to be R rated so most of the club decides to leave, because it is not what God would want them to see. The next day at one of the club’s jobs they forgive each other; because Cara discovered Paige had done it on purpose. Cara's family doesn't attend church, so she decides to go with the members of the club. The youth pastor teaches them that God is there, we just need to answer and also the first five commandments. Cara is very eager to learn more and wants to apply it to her life. Paige is continuously mean and disrespectful to Cara, which damages Cara’s self-esteem. Cara continuously forgives her and tries to help her. At the beach party Cara has to wear Paige’s Bikini, and was approached by some college age men. She doubts her friends' compassion and decides to go on a date with one of them. When she meets the guy for a date there are other guys there to, her friends chase them off before something could happen. Paige comes to help Cara too. Paige and Cara talk and Cara learns her sister hurts and is mad, because Cara has a father who did not leave. Cara learns that her friends and Paige really do love, respect and forgive her as she does them. Cara also discovers how much God loves her.
What I liked: I liked how this book shows us that forgiveness can always be there for us and we need to remember to do it ourselves. Cara clearly shows what it feels like to forgive and need forgiveness. That is something we need to do daily.
What I disliked: I disliked how the author uses R rated movies and college age men to illustrated how much Cara's friends care about her.
Would I recommend: I would recommend this book to the older children in the age group (8-12). I would not want my eight year-old-reading this subject material.

People of the Way by Edith J. Agnew

People of the Way was written by Edith J. Agnew and illustrated by Johannes Troyer. The copyright is 1959 and was printed by Westminster Press. It is 50 pages. This is an easy reader, but it is for older children, as the subject matter is more difficult.

This story is about the disciples and how they continued Jesus’ ministry after he had been crucified. The main characters in this are Peter, Barnabas and Paul. I really enjoyed this story, because I relearned the story. I did not know that the Greeks called them Christians. It was also interesting to learn that after they had held many meetings in people’s houses the word church was used. There are important Bible verses (Matthew 28:19-20, John 13:35, and Acts 4:20) on in the inside cover to learn and memorize. There are also two prayers.

The illustrations are realistic and well drawn. In this book the colors are pastel. There are also black and white illustrations.

Since this book is so long it can be read with the chapters or straight through. My 4-year-old liked the story, but we needed to read it in chapters.

Prayer of the Week- Spring Storms

Dear Lord,

Thank You for the rain, sun and warmer temperatures. It is enjoyable to see the new flowers, green leaves on the trees and the new baby animals.

As spring progresses to summer and the rains fall, please protect those who are in the storms's paths. Help people to know when the storms are coming so they can get to their safe places. Constantly remind people to not drive in flash floods. Spring storms can be very dangerous, please everyone safe.

In Your name I pray, Amen.

5 Minute Chocolate Mug Cake

5 MINUTE CHOCOLATE MUG CAKE
4 tablespoons flour
4 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons cocoa
1 egg
3 tablespoons milk
3 tablespoons oil
3 tablespoons chocolate chips (optional)
A small splash of vanilla extract
1 large coffee mug (MicroSafe)

Add dry ingredients to mug, and mix well. Add the egg and mix thoroughly.
Pour in the milk and oil and mix well..
Add the chocolate chips (if using) and vanilla extract, and mix again.
Put your mug in the microwave and cook for 3 minutes at 1000 watts.
The cake will rise over the top of the mug, but don't be alarmed!
Allow to cool a little, and tip out onto a plate if desired.
EAT ! (this can serve 2 if you want to feel slightly more virtuous).
And why is this the most dangerous cake recipe in the world?
Because now we are all only 5 minutes away from chocolate cake at any time of the day or night!

The Bare Cupboard Edition #2!!!

Welcome to the April 24, 2009 edition of the bare cupboard! Thank you so much for submitting. I really enjoyed reading all of these posts. Please remember to comment and socially bookmark.

Silicon Valley Blogger presents Cheap Meals and Easy Dinner Ideas: Recession Dining For Under $10 posted at The Digerati Life, saying, "Thanks!"

The Smarter Wallet presents Cheap Meals You Can Cook At Home To Save Money! posted at The Smarter Wallet, saying, "Thanks!"

MatthewPaulson presents The Cost of Healthy Eating: Is it More Expensive? posted at Fine-Tuned Finances.

Joseph presents How To Make A Pizza posted at Mom's Favorites.

main dishes

Local Nourishment presents Breakfast Casserole, Chicken and Sweet Peppers posted at Local Nourishment.

tips

Beno Varghese presents Hmmm?.life on tea posted at Beno Varghese dot-com.

FitBuff presents Top 10 Lower Cholesterol Foods posted at FitBuff.com's Total Mind and Body Fitness Blog, saying, "When filling up those bare cupboards, don't forget to include some of these excellent lower cholesterol foods..."

ZestyCook presents Super Easy Homemade Basil Pesto ZestyCook posted at ZestyCook, saying, "How to make homemade basil pesto"

That concludes this edition. Submit your blog article to the next edition of the bare cupboard using our carnival submission form. Past posts and future hosts can be found on our blog carnival index page.

Technorati tags: the bare cupboard, blog carnival.

Peace For You

I am not sure who wrote this, but I wanted to share this with you.
May today there be peace within.
May you trust that you are exactly where you are meant to be.
May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith in yourself and others. May you use the gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you. May you be content with yourself just the way you are.
Let this knowledge settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love.
It is there for each and every one of us.

The Crazy Christmas Angel Mystery by Beverly Lewis

The Crazy Christmas Angel Mystery
By
Beverly Lewis
Illustrated By: Barbara Birch
Series: The Cul-de-sac Kids #3
Publisher: Star Song Publishing Group
Copyrighted: 1993
Number of Pages: 61
Age Group: 7-10 years old
Type of Book: Christian Fiction
Physical Nature: Paperback and 5x7 inches
Extras: Map of the neighborhood, synopsis of book four and extra information from the author
About the Book: It is Christmastime and Eric Hagel (8) is very curious about his new neighbor, Mr. Tressler. Eric thinks Mr. Tressler is scary. Eric decides to spy on Mr. Tressler when he sees angels flying around Mr. Tressler’s living room. Eric along with the rest of the kids in the neighborhood decides to make a friend of Mr. Tressler. They take a couple of days to learn songs, make cookies, and cards. The kids find out Mr. Tressler is very friendly and the angels are really doves. Eric learned that everything is not always as it seems. If something is scary it really might not be.
About Author and Illustrator: Beverly Lewis lives in Colorado with her family and has written many books and short stories. The Cul-de-sac Kids remind her of her friends when she was younger. Barbara Birch illustrated the book realistically, which goes well with the clear plot line and characters.
What I liked: I liked how Eric was brave enough to make friends with Mr. Tressler. We need to always remember that our friends may be those we least expect.
What I disliked: There was nothing to dislike.
Would I recommend: Yes I would. We need to remember new friends come when we least expect them.

The Littlest One by Elspeth Campbell Murphy

The Littlest One
By
Elspeth Campbell Murphy
Illustrated by: Anne Kennedy
Series: Brenda Learns about God
Published by: Chariot Books
Copyrighted: 1984
Number of pages: 24 pages
Type of Book: Christian fiction
Age group: I-3 years
Physical Nature of Book: hardback, small for kids’ hands
Extras: List of the rest of the book in series
About the Book: Brenda is the youngest member of her family and she has a hard time adjusting to being little. She is able to spend sometime with a baby and she realizes she is little but she is not a baby. Her mother and father say that they are grateful God gave her to them and Brenda is growing up well, the illustrations are realistic and good for ages I-3.
About the Author: Elspeth Campbell Murphy has written more than 100 books the past years. She is a graduate of Trinity College and Mood Bible Institute. She currently lives in Chicago and received a Gold Medallion award for Do You See Me, God?
What my children thought: Both of my children enjoyed this book, there was nothing they disliked. My five-year-old son liked Tiny, dog, and that the book was about God. My three-year-old daughter liked Brenda. Both of my children think that Children their age would like this book. What I liked: I liked everything about this book. This book shows what it can be like for the youngest members in the family and how God helps them grownup.
What I Disliked: Nothing.
Would I recommend: Yes, I would recommend this book. I would read it to younger family members up to the age of five, because many may feel as Brenda did.

Prayer of the Week- Jesus' Surprises

Dear Lord,
Thank you for the sun, rain, cold and warm temperatures You have given us.

Thank you for sending us Your Son and for the fisherman who met him and were able to tell the story in the Bible. Thank you for continuously sending us surprises like when Jesus surprised the fisherman after He died on the cross. Help me to remember to show surprising kindness and joy when I share the love of Christ with others.

In Your name, Amen.

Strawberry Gelatin

Strawberry Gelatin

Dissolve 1 large package strawberry gelatin in 1 ½ cups hot water. Add 1 small can crushed pineapple -undrained- and 1 pound package frozen strawberries partially thawed. Chill
Makes 8-10 servings.

I hope you enjoy this recipe for a very easy gelatin.

The Chicken Pox Panic

The Chicken Pox Panic
By
Beverly Lewis
Illustrations By: Barbara Birch
Published By: Bethany House Publishers
Copyrighted: 1993
Series: Cul-de-sac Kids #2
Number of Pages: 60 pages
Age Group: 7-10 year-old
Type of Book: Christian Fiction
Physical Description: Paperback, 5x7 inches
About the Book: Abby Hunter (third grade) has the chicken pox and wants to make a special cake for her adopted brother, Shawn’s birthday. She keeps the plans for her cake a secret from everybody, even her best friend, Stacy Hunter. Stacy has a secret of her own. Her mother is not telling her where her birth certificate is, so Stacy thinks she is adopted. Abby helps Stacy look for her birth certificate or old pictures. They don’t have any luck. They just have problems when Stacy’s dog eats the roast and ice cream. Abby uses her own money to buy another roast and then has no money for the birthday surprise. Stacy asks the rest of the Cul-de-sac Kids to loan Abby money. Abby is able to get enough money for Shawn’s birthday surprise and she invites everybody to the party. Stacy calls her dad, who agrees to come see her and send her a copy of her birth certificate. Stacy helps Abby with Shawn’s cake and the birthday party is a success. Abby and Stacy learn it is good to not have secrets and it is good to help others.
Extras: Map of Blossom Hill Lane, synopsis of book #3, extra information from the author about when her children had the chicken pox.
About the Author and Illustrator: Beverly Lewis lives in Colorado with her family and has written many books and short stories. The Cul-de-sac Kids remind her of her friends when she was younger. Barbara Birch illustrated the book realistically, which goes well with the clear plot line and characters.
What I liked: I liked everything about this book. I thought it was important that Stacy and Abby learned that keeping secrets does not help anybody. It shows the readers they shouldn’t keep secrets either.
What I disliked: There was nothing I disliked.
Would I recommend: Yes.

A New Blog Carnival- The Bare Cupboard

Today is the last day for submitting to a new Blog carnival called "The Bare Cupboard."This is a carnival to give us all an inspiration for meals. It seems that our cupboards are always bare until we have ideas for the meals. We are all looking forward to your ideas.Submit your blog article to the next edition of the bare cupboard using our carnival submission form.

Little Golden Book's The Story of Jesus

Little Golden Book’s The Story of Jesus was written by Jane Werner Watson and illustrated by Jerry Smath. It is 22 pages long and was copyrighted in 2002. The Story of Jesus is an easy reader.
This book tells the story of Jesus from birth to death in a positive way for children. The book mentions the highlights of Jesus’ life such as when Jesus went into the wilderness and feeding the crowd of 5,000 people with five loaves of bread and 2 small fish.
I really like how the author tells the people who read the book that it is more important to follow God’s wishes than it is to worry about being wealthy. That is very important for today’s society, where much of what is seen on television is glitz and glamour. I wish it had mentioned the disciples.
The illustrations were realistically drawn and there were many things in the pictures that could be talked about. I thought the drawings of the buildings were good to show children what the architecture was like in those days. The pictures of the flowers were well done and the people who were listening to Jesus were very happy and thoughtful.
My 4-year-old really enjoyed this story. His favorite part of the story was when it talks about Jesus’ death, because he knows that Jesus died for our sins. My two-year-old did not want to listen to the story, even though The Story of Jesus belonged to her.

Prayer of the Week- Jesus's Blood

Dear Lord,

Thank you for the blooming flowers, sunny days and warmer temperatures.

Please bless all those who donate blood. They are giving their blood to save someone else's life as Jesus did for us.

In Your name, Amen.

Super Potato Salad

Super Potato Salad

12 medium potatoes cooked with skins on
6 hard-boiled eggs
1 cup mayonnaise
½ cup plain yogurt or sour cream
1 medium onion chopped
1 ½ teaspoons mustard
2 tablespoons vinegar
½ teaspoon salt

Boil the potatoes. While they are cooking make the dressing. Peel the eggs, mash the yokes and dice the whites. Add the egg yokes to the wet ingredients, if the dressing is too thick milk can be added. Peel the potatoes and dice. Pour the dressing over the warm potatoes and add diced egg whites. Chill well. It does not taste good warm. Serves six.

This Super Potato Salad would be great to have if you have any leftover decorated Easter Eggs.

Reboot Your Brain

Reboot Your Brain
By
Tim Shoemaker
Illustrated By: Marty Baumann
Published By: Zonderkidz
Copyrighted: 2004
Number of Pages: 149 pages
Age Group: 8-12 years-old boys
Type of Book: Christan Devotional for Boys
Physical Description: Paperback, 6 x 8 inches
Extras: Information about the rest of the 2:52 Soul Gear

About the Book: As people, we are similar to computers and sometimes we need to reboot. In Reboot Your Brain, the reader learns about how four teenage boys deal every day problems. There are ten stories that involve: having a big mouth, pride, forgiveness, selfishness, being unkind, honest, anger, jealousy, wrong choices, and patience. Three of the boys: David, Troy and Howie are Christians. Eddie is not a Christian and those boys are his only friends. Two other characters are unseen by all of them. Gabe is an angel and Slick is a minion for Satan. Gabe and Slick can only be heard in peoples’ thoughts. These boys are trying to follow the teachings in Luke 2:52 and Proverbs 3: 3-4. “And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men,” is from Luke 2:52 and those are the four areas that these boys are trying to grow in.
What I Thought: I enjoyed this book. I would have to say that my favorite part of the book is the individual chapter setup. In each chapter there is an e-mail from one of the characters about what happened, the comic about the boys, corresponding Bible story, quiz dealing with the story and frequently asked questions about the subject. Boys will enjoy the quick and easy to read set up and they will learn how what they become as men will be their choice. This book is perfect for boys 8-12. I will make sure that my son reads this book when he is old enough.
Would I Recommend: Yes, I would recommend Reboot Your Brain.

The Legend of the Easter Egg

The Legend of the Easter Egg
By
Lori Walburg
Illustrated By: James Bernardin
Published By: Zondervan Publishing House
Copyrighted: 1999
Number of Pages: 28 pages
Age Group: 4-8 years of age
Type of Book: Christian Easter (Holiday)
Physical Description: Hardback, 9 x11 inches
About the Book: This book does a wonderful job of showing symbolism for the traditions and symbols of Lent and Easter in this story about Thomas and his sister, Lucy. One night Lucy catches scarlet fever and Thomas is sent to live with John and Mary Sonneman in their small prairie town. The symbolism begins when Mary wipes the stove ash off Thomas's face and forehead as people have ash on their foreheads to remind them of their sins and the need to repent on Ash Wednesday, On Maundy Thursday sometimes people wash each other’s feet as Mary did for Thomas. Mary teaches Thomas that the egg symbolizes Jesus breaking free of the tomb of death. Thomas dyes the eggs and prays by himself for the first time. It is on Easter Sunday that he is able to reunite with Lucy again and share his new faith.
What my children thought: My five-year-old son and three-year-old daughter loved everything about this book and think kids their age would like it. My son liked it when Lucy got well, what the egg symbolized and all the candy. My daughter liked the egg hunting, washing of the feet, angel and when Lucy was well.
What I liked: I enjoyed the illustrations. They were done in acrylic and colored pencils on paper, the colors popped off the pages and the people are so well done. The message is so important too about faith in Jesus, the Easter egg and love.
What I disliked: Nothing.
Would I recommend: Yes.

Prayer of the Week- Life of Righteousness

Dear Lord,

Thank you for the wonderful warm and sunny weather we had today. Please keep away the snow and cold temperatures.

I need help Lord. Please help me to live a life of righteousness. Be with me every day while I continuously remember to live a life with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, humility, faithfullness, gentleness, self-control, compassion and selflessness. I knows these traits make you happy and will give me a happier and more meaningful life.

Every day when I forget, please give my heart a little nudge. I will send a prayer to you to help me control my vices.

Thank you. In your name I pray, Amen.

Potato and Corn Flake Casserole

Potato and Corn Flake Casserole

1 pound sliced or diced potatoes, cooked
1 pound medium or sharp shredded cheddar cheese
16 ounce container of sour cream
1 medium finely diced onion
2 cups slightly crushed corn flakes mixed with 3 tablespoons olive oil

Layer the potatoes, sour cream, onion, and cheese. Cover with the corn flake mixture. Bake at 350° for 40-45 minutes. Serves four.

The Chicken Pox Panic

The Chicken Pox Panic
By
Beverly Lewis
Illustrations By: Barbara Birch
Published By: Bethany House Publishers
Copyrighted: 1993
Series: Cul-de-sac Kids #2
Number of Pages: 60 pages
Age Group: 7-10 year-old
Type of Book: Christian Fiction
Physical Description: Paperback, 5x7 inches
About the Book: Abby Hunter (third grade) wants to make a special cake for her adopted brother, Shawn’s birthday. She keeps the plans for her cake a secret from everybody, even her best friend, Stacy Hunter. Stacy has a secret of her own. Her mother is not telling her where her birth certificate is, so Stacy thinks she is adopted. Abby helps Stacy look for her birth certificate or old pictures. They don’t have any luck. They just have problems when Stacy’s dog eats the roast and ice cream. Abby uses her own money to buy another roast and then has no money for the birthday surprise. Stacy asks the rest of the Cul-de-sac Kids to loan Abby money. Abby is able to get enough money for Shawn’s birthday surprise and she invites everybody to the party. Stacy calls her dad, who agrees to come see her and send her a copy of her birth certificate. Stacy helps Abby with Shawn’s cake and the birthday party is a success. Abby and Stacy learn it is good to not have secrets and it is good to help others.
Extras: Map of Blossom Hill Lane, synopsis of book #3, extra information from the author about when her children had the chicken pox.
About the Author and Illustrator: Beverly Lewis lives in Colorado with her family and has written many books and short stories. The Cul-de-sac Kids remind her of her friends when she was younger. Barbara Birch illustrated the book realistically, which goes well with the clear plot line and characters.
What I liked: I liked everything about this book. I thought it was important that Stacy and Abby learned that keeping secrets does not help anybody. It shows the readers they shouldn’t keep secrets either.
What I disliked: There was nothing I disliked.
Would I recommend: Yes.

Make it From Scratch Carnival

This is my first time hosting the Make it from Scratch Carnival and I have enjoyed every minute of it. Everybody sent in wonderful posts. Thank you.

Feature Post:
I had to feature this post, because this is exactly what I have been looking for. Joanna presents Magnetic Spice Rack Project & a Giveaway!! posted at keeping feet, saying "This was a fun, space-saving, frugal kitchen project, and I'm excited to share it with you!"

More Wonderful Posts:
SimplyForties presents Elizabeth on 37th's Oyster and Sausage Turnover posted at SimplyForties.

Neighbor Nancy presents A Ton of Garden, A Tiny Space: Vegetables for the 6" Container posted at Recession Depression Therapy, saying "Make it from scratch? How far are you willing to go with that? Dig in and join the adventure."


RecycleCindy presents Crochet a Spiral Scrubbie posted at My Recycled Bags.com, saying "If you want a cute kitchen scrubber check out this post. I added some recycled lettuce and ham plastic netting to make my crocheted scrubbie have extra scrubbing power."


christinemoers presents Tastes-Like-Spaghettio's Pasta Bake posted at Welcome to my Brain.

Alex presents Animal Coloring Pages posted at Home Life Weekly, saying "Give your kids some fun by making printed animal coloring pages."


Stephanie presents The Great Potato Experiement Year Two posted at Stop the Ride!.




Stephanie presents Cooking with Milk Substitutes posted at Make It From Scratch.

Linda Mundy presents Ginger Orange Cookies posted at LJM's Kitchen, saying "These cookies are easy to make, and you may find them addictive!"

Deana presents Fancy vintage inspired lampshade posted at Alchemyfineliving's Weblog.

Leigh presents Who Wants a Vegan Bran Muffin?! posted at Cheap Healthy Good, saying "Thanks for hosting."

Nathan Veldhoen presents Project: coffee table. Nate Veldhoen posted at Nate Veldhoen, saying "A Coffe table I made from a 97 ford tailgate, some leftover cedar and a piece of glass."

Annette Berlin presents Basil Vegetable Soup posted at Craft Stew, saying "My husband asked me to use up the little dribs and drabs of veggies left over in the fridge. This extremely delicious and easy soup is the result."

Victoria Kabakian presents Delicious Baked Eggs! posted at Mission: Food.

Anthony Delgado presents Make It From Scratch and Tell About it on eElixir - eElixir: Modern Cottage Industry posted at Anthony on eElixir.

Did you know your iPhone could do so much? Margaret Garcia shows us Top 20 Home Improvement iPhone Apps posted at Construction Management Degrees.

Submit your blog article to the next edition of make it from scratch! using our carnival submission form. Past posts and future hosts can be found on our blog carnival index page.

What is Easter?

What is Easter?
Written By: Michelle Medlock Adams
Illustrated By: Amy Wummer
Published By: Candy Cane Press
Copyrighted: 2005
Number of Pages: 24 pages
Age Group: 4-8 years of age
Type of Book: Christian fiction
Physical Description: Cardboard book
About the Book: This book begins by asking the reader if Easter is about new clothes, candy and hunting Easter eggs. The answer that is given is “No!” Easter is about God's son, Jesus, and the life he gave to save us. The illustrations are very well done. Everyone is happy and the same outdrew are shown throughout the story.
What My Children Thought: This book was very popular with my children. My five-year-old son liked Jesus with the children, the Easter Egg Hunt and the chicks. He especially liked the page that explains what Easter is really about. My three-year-old daughter enjoyed the whole book. There was nothing they disliked.
What I liked: I thought the entire book was wonderful. I thought it was important to show the contrasts between how many people celebrate Easter and how it truly should be. My favorite phrase is "He wants to live inside you too and fill you up with love." That is very important to all of us. We all need to remember that.
What I disliked: Nothing.
Would I recommend: Yes.

Prayer of the Week- Living a Life of Jesus

I had a wonderful idea for my post tonight, but it did not work out. Here is what I had planned on giving you in a handwritten version for my prayer of the week, then I realized that I would not be able to make it large enough to be readable.

Tonight I am having a wonderful time thinking about how I am going to write my prayer of the week. I have decided to participate in the hour long time of using less electricity, so I am sitting at the table writing out my prayer in the light of two oil lanterns. As I look out the window you can tell the city has not decided to participate, because you can see the lights reflecting on the fallen snow.

I get my inspirations for my prayers from books, sermons, magazines and my children. If there is something you would like me to pray about, please leave a comment.

Dear Lord,

Thank you for the wonderful day with my children and the snow that is coming down.

I would like help remembering that I should always be striving to be like Your Son. As Christians we need to remember that other people see Jesus through us. If we aren't living a life of Jesus, unbelievers will get the wrong message about what Jesus is really like. Please Lord, keep your hand on me while I am trying to be more like Your Son.

Thank you. In Your name, Amen.

Danish Sugar Cookies

Danish Sugar Cookies

1-cup butter
½ cup sugar
2 cups flour
1-cup ground pecans
1-teaspoon vanilla

Mix. Form into rolls and freeze. Slice and bake at 350° until set about 8 minutes. Dip in powdered sugar while hot. Can make four dozen.

Enjoy these simple Danish Sugar Cookies!!!

The Story of Easter

The Story of Easter or La Historia de la Pascua En Ingles
By
Patricia A. Pingry
Illustrated by Stacy Venturi-Pickett
Published by: Ideals Children's Books
Copyrighted: 2001
Number of pages: 26 pages
Age Group: 4-8 years of age
Type of book: Christian Non-fiction
Physical Description of Book: paperback, 8x8 inches
Extras: There are letters in the beginning to parents or teachers and a list of the 200 words in Spanish and English in the back.
About the book: This was a wonderfully drawn and written story about Easter, The illustrations are very realistic, bright and nicely textured. There are enjoyable mentions of spring, why we have Easter, what happens on Easter. The most important lesson in this book is that Jesus gave his life so we may live.
What my children thought: My five-year-old son liked the bunnies, people going to church and the list of vocabulary words at the end of the book. He also liked that it was in English and Spanish. He thought it was important that the angel told the women, “Jesus has risen.” There was nothing my son disliked and he wants kids his age to read it. My three-year-old daughter liked the chicks, children splashing in the puddles and sheep. She did not like the angel, but she did think that kids her age would like the book.
What I liked: I liked the illustrations and the vocabulary list at the end of the book. I liked that the author pointed out, Jesus loves us and we love him. I enjoyed being able to read a version in English and Spanish
What I disliked: Nothing
Would I recommend: Yes, I would The Story of Easter.

The Easter Story

The Easter Story
By
Anita Garneri
Illustrator: Rachael Phillips
Series: Storyteller Series
Published by: Smart Apple Media and Evans Brothers LTD
Copyrighted: 2005
Number of pages: 23 pages
Age group: 6 years and up
Type of Book: Christian Non-fiction
Physical Description: hardback, 8 ½ x 11 inches
About the book: This book is about Jesus and what happened to him in the time near the crucifixion, holy communion, the cross, the Lord’s Prayer, and painting Easter eggs. The story begins with the beginning of the festival of Passover and then continues with the last meal where Judas learns that Jesus knows what he is doing. It continues with the Roman soldiers capturing Jesus and the crucifixion. Jesus is then placed in the tomb and rises from the dead. The illustrations were very well done. The people are very realistic and the backgrounds had an interesting texture. The photos of the Easter eggs were a nice addition so the reader can see what a painted egg looks like.
What my children thought: I did read this book to them even though they are only three and five. My five year-old-son moved at seeing the illustration of how Jesus died and the way He was nailed to the cross. There was nothing my son disliked. My three-year-old daughter liked the illustrations of the angel and Jesus at the Last Supper. She disliked the illustration of Jesus on the cross. Both of my children enjoyed the idea of painting Easter eggs and would recommend it to kids their ages.
What I liked: I liked this entire book. It was very clearly written and it shows us, as Christians, what Jesus went through for us. I am looking forward to trying the Easter egg project.
What I disliked: I thought the illustration of Jesus was too graphic for young children.
Would I recommend: Yes, I would recommend The Easter Story to those who want to learn more about Easter.

The Mystery of the Wrong Dog

The Mystery of the Wrong Dog
By
Elspeth Campbell Murphy
Series: Three Cousins Detective Club #3
Published by: Bethany House Publishers
Copyright: 1994
Number of pages: 59 pages
Age Group: first chapter book (ages7-10)
Type of Book: Christian fiction
Physical Description: Paperback, 5x7 inches
About the book: Titus McKay has been taking care of Kingsley, a cranky dog, for his neighbors while they are at odds with each other. Titus and his two cousins decide to go to the bakery with Kingsley. They leave him outside and when they come back outside there is a totally different (attitude) dog waiting for them. Titus decides Kingsley has been switched with another dog. He confronts one of the owners and learns he switched dogs. Titus is able to get the dogs owners to consent to living with each other again. Titus is able to keep the other dog. Titus, his cousins and Kingsley’s owners learned about peace through each other and the story of St. Francis of Assisi. St. Francis was a peacemaker between a wild wolf and a village.
About Author: Elspeth Campbell Murphy has written more than 100 books the past years. She is a graduate of Trinity College and Mood Bible Institute. She currently lives in Chicago and received a Gold Medallion award for Do You See Me, God?
What did I like best: I liked how Titus was a peacemaker between his neighbors like St. Francis was. It shows us, the reader, that everybody be a peacemaker.
What did I dislike: There was nothing in this book I disliked.
Would I recommend: Yes, I would recommend this book. If we all tried to consistently be peacemakers more this world would be better.

Happy Easter God

By
Elspeth Campbell Murphy
Published by: Bethany House Publishers
Copyrighted: 2001
Number of pages: 29 pages
Age group: 2-6 years of age
Type of book: Holiday Christian fiction
Physical Description: hardback, square, shiny pages.
About the book: This book begins with a letter to parents discussing the setup of the book. Each group of pages includes a prayer-poem for the child and a Bible verse for the parents to meditate on. The prayer-poems have a variety of topics from chocolate Easter bunnies to the angel outside the empty tomb.
The illustrations were realistically drawn and fun to look at. Everybody has a big smile and we get to know the children by reading their nametags.
About the author: Elspeth Campbell Murphy has written more than 100 books the past years. She is a graduate of Trinity College and Mood Bible Institute. She currently lives in Chicago and received a Gold Medallion award for Do You See Me, God?
What my children thought: My five-year-old son thoroughly enjoyed this book; there was nothing he disliked. I read the Bible verses as well as the prayer-poems to the children and those were his favorite parts, because they were from the Bible. He also liked the pictures because they were shiny. My son thought the funniest picture was of the bunny on a girl’s lap. He highly recommended this book to kids his age. My daughter who is three enjoyed this book as well. There were many things she enjoyed: like the bunny, the children singing, and the Easter egg hunt. Her favorite child was Caroline. The only illustration my daughter didn't like was of the angel. She thought children her age would enjoy the book,
What I liked: I liked the entire book. I enjoyed the addition of the Bible verses for adult readers. I also enjoyed how my son appreciated the Bible verses. I felt invigorated after I read this book. I thought next time I would have my son help me read this book.
What I disliked: There is nothing I disliked.
Do I recommend: Yes, I do. Happy Easter God is a very enjoyable book for both children and adults.

Noah's Ark by Barbara Shook Hazen and Diane Muldrow

The Little Golden Book, Noah’s Ark is by Barbara Shook Hazen and Diane Muldrow and illustrated by Mirceau Catusanu. It was copyrighted in 2003 by Random House Inc. and is 22 pages. The most important theme in this book is that we can and should trust in God.

I liked this story, because it includes much of the information from the Bible, like the raven, who is usually not included. There is a very nice poem about the animals as they go in pairs into the ark.

I thought the illustrations were very good. I did think the eyes on the donkey were too wide. The illustrations in this story show well how Noah and his family are either happy or scared at the appropriate times.

This Noah's Ark is good for children who can pay attention for a longer story as this story has more words than the average Little Golden Book. My four-year-old enjoys this story, but it is just a little long for my two-year-old.

Prayer of the Week- Keeping Away from Evil

Join me for the prayer of the week.

Dear Lord,

Thank you the warm temperatures, the freedoms you provide in my country and the love you give me that I know will never change.

In today's society everywhere we look we see drinking, drugs and fame (to mention a few), please help me to stay turned away from that life. Help me to focus on you.

Teach me and teach my family how to stay strong so Satan cannot break through our Red Rover line. We will not let him break us.

Please bless us and keep us from doing evil.

In Your name I pray. Amen

I hope this prayer of the week will help you throughout the week.

Delicious Shortbread Cookies

Shortbread Cookies

1 cup butter
½ cup powdered sugar
¼ cup cornstarch
1 ½ cups flour

Whip butter until fluffy. Stir in the rest of the ingredients and beat well. Drop by teaspoons onto a non-greased cookie sheet. Bake at 375° for 12-15 minutes; watch the edges so they are not too brown. Cool on wire rack. Makes 2 dozen.

These are some of my favorite cookies. I hope you like shortbread cookies too.

Mystery Pennies by Sigmund Brouwer

Mystery Pennies is book five in the Watch out for Joel! series by Sigmund Brouwer.
It was copyrighted in 2003 and published by Bethany House Publishers. It has 30 pages and is for readers ages 6-8. My three year-old and five-year-old both enjoyed having it read to them.

Ricky, age 13, has a job delivering papers, making 10¢ per house. Joel, age seven, wants to help deliver the papers. Ricky lets him deliver papers for one cent per house. Ricky feels badly when Joel uses all his money to buy Ricky a birthday present. Ricky learns he needs to treat Joel fairly. He decided to do that by giving him 10¢ per house for half of the route.

Sigmund Brouwer writes books that are fun to read. He holds writing camps and classes for more than 10,000 kids every year.

Tammie Lyon/Laurie Lambert Association illustrated the book with realistic drawings of Joel and Ricky delivering newspapers and having fun on Ricky’s birthday.

There are two interesting sections of the book. The one at the beginning talks of Romans 18:9 and how we should think as we read the story if we have acted like Ricky. The section at the end of the book has questions and how we should be fair.

The theme for this book is taken from Romans 18:9 about brotherly love. Ricky was being unfair. We need to remember to hold on to what is good and treat our brothers and sisters fairly. It will make all involved feel good.

I really enjoyed this book. I was glad to see that Ricky started being nice to the animals and sharing his newspaper route. I did not like how Ricky was always telling Joel he was only seven.

I would recommend this book to kids so they can read about what it feels like when things aren’t fair. This book will help remind them to be fair to their siblings and others.