Alice in Wonderland

Skylar has been invited to an Alice in Wonderland themed costume party this Saturday. Of course she wanted to dress as Alice even though I suggested another less popular character. So I was suddenly in search of an Alice costume. This it what I came up with...

• 1 yard of eyelet fabric - $0 (thanks to Mimi and her stash of fabric)
• 1 perfectly blue dress - $4.20 (thanks to the clearance rack at Yours Truly Kids Consignment Store)
• 1 adorable Alice - Priceless

Oh and notice the new hairdo - she decided she wanted her hair shorter. It should be easier to take care of now.

More Butterflies

I stepped out in the backyard this afternoon and found a bunch of butterflies

Deja Vu

Ever felt like you have been there, done that before? I am having a severe case of that right now. Flashback 2 years and read the post Change of Heart. That is what we are dealing with once again. Skylar loved the first day of school - remember it was "Awesome." Unfortunately she has once again had a change of heart. The only explanation she will give us is that she wants us there with her. School is fine, but she seems to think that Brian and I should quit our jobs and attend the second grade once again, or her other solution was for us just to not make her go. Even when we explained that we would go to jail if she did not go to school, she said she would pay the money to get us out. It would almost be comical if it were not so painful to watch her cry every morning and every afternoon. She cries throughout the day in class. I am praying that God will deliver her of whatever fear she feels and soon she will enjoy school once again.

A Boy and His Guitar

Stephen has always had an interest in music. For his 10th birthday, we bought him a student guitar and his cousin started giving him lessons. We have been pleasantly surprised at how quickly he has learned. Within a week he was playing Happy Birthday. Recently he started taking his guitar to church and playing with the guys there. It is such a blessing to watch him slowly come out of his shyness and begin to have the confidence to play in front of people. It is even more of a blessing to see him use his talent for the Lord.

My Sunflower Garden

Last spring I bought a packet of mixed dwarf sunflower seeds. I planted a handful in the planter on our back deck not knowing whether they would grow there or not. I have been very pleasantly surprised by the beautiful blooms, as well as the insects they have attracted. Stephen has been particularly impressed with the butterflies.

First Day of School

The 2010-2011 school year started today. Skylar was nervous this morning (just like her mom always was) and for Stephen it was just another day. We were very pleased to hear Skylar describe her first day of second grade as "Awesome," and Stephen agreed that fifth grade was "Awesome" as well. We are looking forward to a wonderful school year.

Want Your Own Copy?

When I signed up to review Amish Proverbs: Words of Wisdom from the Simple Life by Suzanne Woods Fisher, I received an extra copy to give away. If you would like a chance to receive a free copy of this inspiring little book just leave a comment with your favorite proverb, bit of wisdom or family tradition. To celebrate Suzanne's Facebook Party on September 1, I will draw a random winner from those who leave comments. (Open to those in US and Canada only)

To get things started here is one of my favorites from the book:

Parents who are afraid to put their foot down usually have children who step on their toes.

Now lets hear your...

Amish Proverbs: Words of Wisdom from the Simple Life Review & Giveaway

About Amish Proverbs: Words of Wisdom from the Simple Life

Through firsthand research and personal relationships, Suzanne Woods Fisher has collected more than 200 proverbs that uncover the rich heritage, folklore, faith, values, history, and essence of the Plain People. These proverbs serve as teaching tools and maxims for practical living--but they're not just for the Amish. They're for anyone who seeks God's wisdom and truth for everyday circumstances.

Ranging from the simple to the profound, from the serious to the humorous, these sayings will stick with you through life's joys and sorrows. With beautiful full-color photos throughout, Amish Proverbs is the perfect gift for any occasion.

About Suzanne Woods Fisher: Suzanne Woods Fisher is the CBA bestselling author of The Choice, The Waiting, Amish Peace, and Amish Proverbs. Her interest in the Anabaptist cultures can be directly traced to her grandfather, W. D. Benedict, who was raised in the Old Order German Baptist Brethren Church in Franklin County, Pennsylvania. Benedict eventually became publisher of Christianity Today magazine. Suzanne is the host of a radio show called Amish Wisdom and her work has appeared in many magazines. She lives in California.

Just My Thoughts: I truly enjoyed this book. It is broken into eleven chapters, each covering a different topic ranging from time to faith and even some just for fun items. Each of these chapters starts with a short story about the chapter topic. I found each of these stories to be thought provoking and enjoyable. Following the story are several pages of wonderful sayings and proverbs along with some gorgeous photographs depicting the Amish way of life. While some of the proverbs were familiar to me, many I had never heard, however all made me think about things in simpler way.

Enter Suzanne Woods Fisher's Simple Wisdom KINDLE Giveaway!

It has been said that if you want to know a people, know their proverbs. Suzanne and Revell Books have pulled the wisdom of the Amish into a beautiful gift book perfect for any occasion. Amish Proverbs is in stores now and to celebrate Suzanne is hosting the Simple Wisdom KINDLE Giveaway. One Grand Prize winner will receive a Kindle preloaded with Suzanne Woods Fisher titles. The Prize Pack (valued at over $205.00) includes:

* A brand new KINDLE, Free 3G, 6", Latest Generation

* Amish Peace by Suzanne Woods Fisher

* The Choice by Suzanne Woods Fisher

To enter, simply click on the icons below to fill out the entry form, then tell 5 or more friends about the contest. Oh, and enter soon! Winner will be announced on September 1st.

Join Suzanne for a Wrap-up Party on September 1st! She’ll be announcing the winner of the Simple Wisdom KINDLE Giveaway, chatting with readers, and giving away copies of Amish Proverbs and The Choice! Be sure to join us on Wednesday , September 1st at 8PM EST at Suzanne’s Author Page.

For more reviews check out the blog tour at Litfuse.

Disclaimer: I received a book for myself and one to giveaway from Revell Books through LitFuse Blog Tour. No other compensation was received. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.

A Sunflower of a Different Color