catnipoflife

Observe life at its best, Listen to life’s songs, Embrace life’s bounties, Breathe the breath of life, Savor life to its fullest!

One Lovely Blog Award #2 and #3

WOW! Not one,but two! When I entered the blogosphere, I never dreamed of acquiring so many wonderful relationships, true friendships, through my writing. What is so amazing is the inspiration I receive on a daily basis through visiting other blogsites, as well as comments left on catnip. Not only do I love to write, I LOVE to read!

FIRST, A BIG THANK YOU TO. . .

Jen Davies, A Writer’s Journey, who has graciously bestowed One Lovely Blog Award to catnipoflife. Jen has an awesome blog and shares about her journey in writing, plus she has some great photos on her site.

Jen Owenby, Jen’s Thoughts, who expresses her thoughts on writing, reading and life. Visits to her site never have me leave without inspiration.

Thank you to both Jens, for this honor which now allows catnip to pay the award forward to other bloggers who offer inspiration on a regular basis.

SECOND, before announcing the nominees, the ‘rules’ begin with my posting seven random facts about myself.

1. My favorite foods: bacon, grits and toast with honey (The honey is NOT store bought!)

2. I love to travel, just don’t get to go as much as I would like.

3. Our children: Scott, April, Nicole, Wendy, Foxie and Boots [Guess which two are the cats. LOL:>)]

4. I enjoy painting as well as writing.

5. My favorite poet: Wendell Brown, aka the One Brown Poet

6. While working at the computer, you can find Boots in my lap on a regular basis!

7. I am a photographer for Voyage en éphémère [Visit my homepage and The Murals of Colquit, GA and The Murals of Colquit, GA #2]

THIRD, as I ponder the list for my nominess, I find some are totally inspiring through the written word while others are solely visual. The world of photography is indeed an art within itself providing insight into the marvelous world around us. Thus, the nominees are

Soulmetry

Marbles in my Pocket

Inspiration Import

My Own Heart

Women Making Strides

The London Flower Lover

Marla Martenson

The Why About This

Valerie Davis

Books That Sow

angchronicles

Extraordinary Dreams of an Ireland Traveler

Cosmuse

Free Tag Zone

Don in Massachusetts

AMS Daily

Please leave a comment so I will know you have received notification of the award.

34 Comments »

Liebster Award

Waiting in my Inbox today, I found a most pleasant surprise. catnipoflife had been honored with a nomination for the Liebster Award from Cosmuse. I was only vaguely familiar with this award having seen it on many blogsites but having never taken the time to reseach what it truly means.

What is the Liebster Award?

“The Liebster Blog Award is given to up and coming bloggers who have less than 200 followers. The Meaning: Liebster is German and means sweetest, kindest, nicest, dearest, beloved, lovely, kind, pleasant, valued, cute, endearing and welcome.”

Before delving into the rules for this award, I would like to introduce you to . She is from New Delhi, India and claims she likes writing as much as she likes desserts, maybe more! Now, folks, that must mean she absolutely loves to write! I believe it and you will, too, once you visit her site. She is a very talented, heartfelt writer! Vaishali, I am very humbled and honored to receive this award from you!

There are certain rules one has to follow, and copying them from  Cosmuse‘s blog post, they are enumerated below:
  1. If you are tagged/nominated, you have to post 11 facts abut yourself.
  2. Then you answer the 11 questions the tagger has given you & make 11 questions for the people you are going to tag.
  3. Tag 11 more Bloggers.
  4. Tell the people you tagged that you did.
  5. No tagging back.
  6. The person you tag must have less than 200 followers.
Here goes:

11 Facts about me:

Other than first being a child of God and a true believer in Jesus Christ, I am. . .
1. A Weight Watcher’s makeover
2. A member of G.R.I.T.S. (Girls Raised In The South)
3. Lover of music but the only note I sing is ‘So‘ – Sour only
4. My husband and I share the same middle name – Lee.
5. I’m giddy like a child when I catch a fish.
6. Love to swim and once dreamed of being the next Ester Williams (Visit Awakenings: Like Classic Movies?)
7. Enjoy painting, oils and acrylics
8. Favorite sport is golf
9. University of Florida fan Go Gators!
10. Hate to be alone
11. Love old cars and classic movies
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Answers to Vaishali’s questions:
1]   ‘Checkered blue n white’ or ‘black’?
Let’s see. . .I love blue (my favorite color, in fact),  not too fond of checkered (except the red & white checkered tablecloths at picnics). black, well it is known to be very slenderizing. OK …that does it – Black, definitely black!
2] Curtains or no curtains?
Definitely NO curtains! All they do is collect dust, frogs (yep, the ting green ones) and make rooms too dark. If anything, plantation shutters. . .Let the light shine in!
3]   Hardcover, paperback or ebooks?
Hardcover when it is on sale:>) No doubt about it – paperback over ebook. Love the feel of that book in hand and special bookmarks!
4]   What’s your ambiance while writing?
With and without music, whatever is going on at the time but definitely with my cat in my lap!
5]   Do you plan to publish a novel?
I think every writer thinks about a novel at one time or another but my gift from God is writing poetry and inspirational  words. After all, I am a mathematician become messenger: He gifts it to me and I gift it to others.
6]   Do you like to make a gift for your loved one or do you rather buy?
Much prefer to make but it is not always feasible or possible.
7]   Which is the most beautiful color according to you?
Blue, most assuredly, blue.
8]   What’s your mantra in life?
From Treasures in Jars of Clay, 2 Corinthians 4:18 – “So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”
9]   Have you ever thought of becoming a soldier in your life?
Not really, but I have the utmost respect and honor for those serving in the military.
10] Do you have stage fear?
Not at all. . .life is a stage!
11] ‘Mickey mouse/ Aladdin/Duck Tales’ or ‘ Shin Chan/ Doraemon/ Kitretsu’?
‘Mickey mouse/ Aladdin/Duck Tales’ especially the first two!
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Because of the time that it does take to complete the requirments for acceptance of this award and because I feel Vaishali’s questions really hit at the crux of this award, I am passing the same questions on to the well-deserving nominees listed below. Each of them has in some way touched my heart and often made my day!While you may not reach the ‘magic’ number of eleven, remember they should be new blogs of no more than 200 followers. Since many blogsites do not display stats for number of followers, it may be possible for some nominees to have more that the required number. If so, please do graciously accept the award as a means by which you can pass recognition along to any newbies who are following you.
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And the nominees are. . .[drum roll, trumpets]
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CONGRATULATIONS TO EACH AND MAY YOU HAVE A VERY BLESSED DAY!
32 Comments »

Tag – You’re It!

Last week I was ‘Tagged’ by Claire Cappetta!  Claire is sharing her journey, fears, tears and joys, through her first novel, A Broken Ring. It is a story of a woman’s journey from abuse to empowerment. Claire also shares thoughts and messages why she loves New York with her husband, Vincent, who inspires readers with poetry of his own. OK, Vinny, why haven’t you been writing lately?

There are rules to this TAG which require my answering questions about myself. This should prove to be interesting. I have not read the questions in advance so here goes. . .but first the rules. . .

Rules

1. You must post the rules.
2. Answer the questions the tagger set for you in their post.
3. Create eleven new questions to ask the people you’ve tagged.
4. Tag (eleven) people with a link to your post.
5. Let them know they’ve been tagged.

Questions to me:

1. Where is the most exotic place you have traveled?

The Matterhorn in the Pennine Alps on the border between Switzerland and Italy

Interpreting exotic to be foreign and striking, it would have to be the Swiss Alps. Kind of sad for this American’s first visit to the mountains to be in Switzerland!

2. If you could be any animal what would you be and why?

I love margaritas!

No doubt about it, the CAT. I am moody, want to be petted only when I am in the mood, finicky about my food, sometimes giddy, sometimes aloof, love a fur coat but most of all, my nickname is Kitten. Go figure! Sh-h-h-h! Don’t tell anyone. Yeah, right!

3. If you wanted to be famous what would it be for?

 

Not really into be classified as famous but would like to be remembered for helping people, being there when needed.

4. You are stranded on an island… what 3 things do you have with you?

 

EASY – My heart to keep me strong, My mind for prayerful thoughts, My soul already promised: Anything else necessary for survival is already there. FOR REAL!

5. What is the craziest thing you’ve ever done?

My dad’s ’54 Ford, except his was dark green.

Being one of many GRITS (Girls Raised In The South) leaves that door wide open. It would have to be ‘backing the miles off my daddy’s ’54 Ford’ to get enough miles for a ‘joy ride’ with my friends to a nearby town. I was only allowed 5 miles and the ride took 20 miles one way. [I discovered the odometer rolled backwards when the car was in reverse.]

6. Tattoo or piercing? What and why?

 

No, tattoos, OOPS! unless your count permanent eyeliner! If I ever got a tattoo, it would be a butterfly. Only piercing is the ears. That hurt enough!

7. What’s the best movie you’ve ever watched?

 

Somewhere in Time. I could handle time travel:>)

8. You could live in a lighthouse on a cliff top or a cabin in the deep dark woods, which would you choose?

 

Definitely the cabin. Don’t mind stairs but the lighthouse might be a bit much on a daily basis although the view would probably be magnificent. However, the woods holds adventures of its own and there are always candles and perhaps a flashlight. (Batteries?) Just may have to carry a big stick sometimes.

9. What is your best feature?

Yep, mine are blue.

Definitely my eyes. Have been told many times I have eyes of an angel. Too mushy, huh?

10. What is your favorite color?

No question here, always been blue. Second to that would be red. Um-m-m-m? Cool to fiesty

11. What is the most inspiring thing you think you have ever done?

Suppose that would have to be through my writing. I only say this because of comments received from readers of my books, especially Echoes.

Questions to you:

1. What is the worst food you ever tasted, when and where?

2. What does your spouse/significant other do sometimes that is totally annoying?

3. If you could go anywhere in the world, all expenses paid, where would you go and why?

4. What is your favorite sport, participating or watching? Why do you like it so much?

5. Describe you most hair-raising experience?

6. What was the most embarrassing moment of your life?

7. Complete this thought: A friend is one who . . .

8. Who was your favorite teacher and why?

9. Who inspires you the most? Why?

10. What is your favorite music, era and artist(s)?

AND, the final question is. . .

11. What 11 words would best describe your personality? 

You’ve been tagged by catnipoflife!

AND THE NOMINEES ARE. . .

Free Tag Zone

The Thoughtful Life

A Hairdresser’s Diary

Extraordinary Dreams of an Ireland Traveler

Jen’s Thoughts

Soulmetry

Poems French & English by Gys

Women Making Strides

WHAT MARVELS ARE THESE

One Week to Crazy

Darlene Craviotto

18 Comments »

One Lovely Blog Award & Tag! You’re it!

Heartfelt thanks are extended in appreciation!

A double THANK YOU is extended today from catnipoflife.

Brenda Fraser

Claire Capetta

On July 5, not one but two nominations for awards were received here at catnip.

How wonderful to be recognized by fellow writers in a way that truly touches the heart! As each of us ‘puts pen to paper,’ it is always in hopes that someone somewhere will feel the warmth, love, pain and passion set forth in writing. Life is a journey and we all have our own unique stories to share whether in fiction, non-fiction or poetry. Since each of these awards have their similarities and differences a tidbit from each one will be shared periodically adding to this post. Afterward, catnip will graciously release her nominations. . .

1} Thank the blogger that nominated you.

Thank you to  Brenda Fraser for nominating me for the One Lovely Blogger Award.Her new book Creative Power is finally finished and available as an e-book on amazon.com . The print version will be available in a few weeks.

2} Give 7 random facts about yourself

1~ I start my day and end the night reading my Bible!

2~My favorite actor is Gene Hackman. His sly grin reminds me of my husband. LOL:>)

3~  I LOVE digging in the dirt and don’t mind getting dirt under my fingernails. Gloves help when I remember them!

4~ Cats are my joy, but you probably already know that!

5~ The best TV shows: America – The Story of Us and Chiller. Quirky combination, I know!

6~ I always get my words twisted/backwards, like. “Had enough to eat, Catfood?” [Cat’s name at that time was Taz. Always hungry. LOL:>)]

7~ Waited until my 50’s to experience my first broken bone. Tripped, fell flat with an armload of books right in the midst of a group of teenagers changing classes. YEP, I was the teacher. Now I am literally screwed after surgery on my left elbow! OUCH!

3} Nominate 15 blogs

Please leave a comment so I will know you received notification! Blessings to all!

Jeanette S Andersen

Kick Back Moments – Peggy Strack

Solid Happpiness – Kate O’Mara

A Writer’s Journey – Micki Peluso

Thoughts and Prayers – Deirdre Tolhurst

I.O.U. Sex – Sandra Nachlinger

Terry’s Thoughts and Threads

Geezer Guys and Gals – Linda Rondeau

Some Assembly Required – John Sealander

The Fat and the Skinny – Carole Di Tosti

A Taste of Bliss – Wendell A. Brown

Surviving Life – Sunni

Aspire. Motivate. Succeed. Daily

Greatpoetrymhf’s Weblog – MaryHelen Ferris

Last, but by NO means least. . .

The Thoughtful Life – Debbie Hope

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I may not always leave a comment but I try to Like when the link is available letting you know I stopped by for a visit. Having been honored myself with this award provides me the opportunity to let you know I have been reading YOUR words. Have a blessed day!

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TAG – YOU’RE IT WILL BE A NEW POST!

29 Comments »

Reader Appreciation Award

Thank you, Debbie @ The Thoughtful Life

What an awesome way to begin a new month, especially one as prestigious as the month of July! Celebrations will be in high gear throughout our nation and abroad in only a few days. But, prior to the Fourth of July holiday, catnipoflife is proud to announce a celebration of her own.

When catnip first entered the blogosphere, she never envisioned meeting a realm of such wonderful people: people she can now call friends, even though they are within an invisible world. We have shared happiness and sorrow with inspiration beyond compare!

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The “rules” for this award state that catnip cannot award someone who has already been awarded. And she cannot give the award back to the person who bestowed it upon her. With those thoughts in mind, I would like to thank all of the people who comment on my blog, but especially Debbie Hope @ The Thoughtful Life who honored catnip with this award. Debbie is an avid catnip visitor and her comments are always welcomed and enjoyed.

To my recipients, here are the rules for this award:

  1. Award your top 6 bloggers who have commented the most.
  2. Be thankful.
  3. You cannot award someone who has already been awarded. And you cannot give the award back to me.
  4. Don’t forget to tell the bloggers you’ve awarded.
  5. If you don’t want to pass on this award, that’s okay to. Just admire it.

Catnipoflife bestows the Reader Appreciation Award to. . .

Claire Cappetta

Claire can be serious when needs be but in doing so, finds just the right way to tickle your funny bone. She is from New York and quick to tell you she LOVEs it. Claire offers a journey through writing and publishing an indie book, and all that pleases and irks along the way! Thank you, Claire for your visits and comments as Catnip’s southern roots stretch across the miles to her northern neighbor.

Micki Peluso

Micki shares A Writer’s Journey and is the author of …And the Whippoorwill Sang. In her book, the family embarks upon its unbearable journey to the other side of grief and grasps the poignant gift of life as they begin … To Weep To Laugh To Grieve To Dance . . . And the Whippoorwill Sang. Thank you, Micki, for your continued support and comments at catnipoflife. Your book is GREAT and I can’t wait to finish so I can write a review:>)

Christine Hannon

All you need to know about Chris’s blog is the title, A Hairdresser’s Diary, and you will be instantly hooked! Even though she has been through personal trauma, it has not weakened her spirit or desire to share with her fellow bloggers. Join Chis and enjoy her art, stories (Flabbermouth Series), poems and testimonials. Thank you, Chris, for all your encouragement even though you were facing your own battles.

Aditya Samitinjay

Aditya is from Hyderabad, India and is studying to be a doctor. His blog, Like Lite Life, offers a wide variety of articles revolving around Mental Health and Lifestyle Tips. In an age where stress is an everyday common occurrence, Aditya makes you stop and think about if coping with stress is really possible in 2012 while also focusing on the most effective way to de-stress (plus many, many more articles of varying interests). Thank you, Aditya, for your visits, comments, tweets, and opportunity for catnip to write for you!

Chief Writing Wolf

The Chief, Alejandro De La Garza, offers cartoons, quips and quotes, famous birthdays, historical events, news, opinions and personal writings with great pride and interest. He, too, is an avid reader and commenter on catnipoflife. Thank you, Chief, for your many, many visits and hope you will continue to come back often.

Well, that’s all folks! I love hearing from all of you, which makes the blogging experience better and better!

Blessings to all and have a wonderful day!

Sharla @catnipoflife

 

7 Comments »

Illuminating Blogger Award

What a wonderful way to begin a new week!

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catnipoflife has been nominated for the Illuminating Blogger Award! I am humbled and honored to receive this award from Lady Lovely Blogger who has already illuminated my life and provided me inspiration on many occasions.
[Be sure to visit Lady Lovely Blogger and the other blogs that have illuminated her life.]

The blogging world has opened many, many doors: Inside each one I have experienced new relationships and discoveries that offer inspiration on a daily basis. Now, as a recipient of this award, I have the opportunity to share with others those who have illuminated me.

What a great way to spread the inspiration!

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illuminating-blogger-award

Let the beacon shine upon. . .

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A Taste of Bliss: Wendell A. Brown AKA The Brown One Poet

A piece of paradise where one can stimulate their mind and inner spirit with psalms and poems that lift the Lord in praise, yet also romances the heart.

Daily Spiritual Tools: Sherry Woodcock

Reflections on the many great and helpful tools I’ve found in seeking the voice of God in my heart.

M. Selene: Margaret Selene

Everything from tear-jerking love stories to tense mysteries that span many different genres. [Writing including writing prompts. Be sure to scroll down to Inspired Again.]

Kick Back Moments: Peggy Strack

A place where the art of relaxing, laughing and slowing down is explored.

I AM NOT DEFINED

Life would be boring if we were all sheep. We need some Zebra’s in the herd.

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As part of the requirements, I am suppose to let you know one random thing about me. . .

I love diggin’ in the dirt, especially happy when I find red wigglers.

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CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OF YOU!

5 Comments »

catnipoflife receives the Sunshine Blog Award

ImageIt is indeed an honor to receive this award from Claire Cappetta, who is in the process of completing her first novel, Ride to LibertyA truly compelling story is about to be shared! In her own words, “Claire is a creative writer and has recently retired from the financial world to concentrate on the dream of publishing a first novel, which follows a woman’s journey through relationships, domestic abuse and empowerment. Although a difficult topic to cover the story is heartwarming.” Be sure to visit Claire’s blog for her 10 nominations for this award. All are inspiring and who knows which one might tug at your heartstrings:>)

Now, it is I who get to GIVE the award by paying it forward again to bloggers who inspire me and bring Sunshine into my  blogging life:

Peggy

Carole 

Miss Kate

Wendell

Dena

Laura

Robin

Stuart

Sandra

Jen

May your week be blessed and filled with inspiration!

5 Comments »

Versatile Blogger Award Thank You

VersatileBloggerWith personal issues taking precedence over the last few weeks, I have found myself a bit behind in email correspondence and blogging. What a surprise to receive a Versatile Blogger Award nomination from The London Flower Lover! Sorry I have not responded sooner but circumstances placed such attentions on the back burner. Many heartfelt thanks are extended for the nomination:) Just knowing the hearts and minds of fellow bloggers have been touched by catnip’s offerings is reward enough.

Now, on to the task at hand! It is my responsibility to enlighten the blogging world with

1) Seven (7) things about me that you did not know.

2.) Nominate 15 other bloggers for the Versatile Blogger Award and tell them so they can pass the love on and on and on and on.

Seven things you did not know about me. . .

1. I am a many years past Weight Watchers makeover: an event that greatly changed my life. Having always been overweight I carried a lot of painful childhood memories well into adulthood. A shift in dress size 18 to size 4 truly made a difference both mentally and physically.

2. My husband (Jim) and I reared four children – one boy and three girls. We had each experienced a trumatic earlier marriage that eventually led us to taking on the responsibility of all four children. He had custody of his two daughters and I had a son and a daughter. None of the children had experienced a good family relationship until we were all brought together through God’s blessing.

3. Jim and I both worked for the railroad industry. He was trainmaster (Southern Railway and ASAB Railway) and I was Freight Agent (ASAB Railway). Our first ‘real’ kiss was in a railroad yard!

4. Prior to meeting Jim, I did my tour of duty in snow country, Oldstead Falls, Ohio. I enjoyed teaching in a middle school but found my students more mesmerized with my Southern accent than in learning. Glad for the experience but was happy to return to my southern roots!

5. At the age of 40, I was in the Top Ten for Mrs. Florida. Average age was 23! Having only been married two years at the time, I failed to answer the question what aggravated me the most about my husband. Oh! To be asked that question now! Just kidding:) Of course, what they wanted was something humorous and I took the question literally.

6. I love to cook. My husband loves to cook. We love to cook together:) Food fight!!!

7. Growing up I was very quiet and shy, truly introverted. Then, I met Jim. . .life was never the same and I would not trade it for the world!

My nominations for the Versatile Blogger Award. . .

Being a relatively new blogger (since November 2011), fifteen may be a difficult task, but here goes. These are the ones that have been my inspiration in one way or another. BTW Who on earth came up with the magic number of 15?!.

Specializing in the Impossible. . . Laura Johnson
Laura enlightens her readers with her love of tackling the impossible! She definitely will show you faith is a good thing!!

Goals, Dreams, and Aspirations. . . Claire Cappetta
Claire exposes her heart and soul in a manner than not only reflects her own real-life experiences but ways to help others through truly traumatic times.

A Taste of Bliss. . . Wendell A. Brown
Wendell, aka The Brown Poet, writes poetry from the heart with God’s blessing: True inspiration not only from the heart but the soul!

Fairycart. . . Jenny Park
Jenny presents an unusual blog about fashion and food from different parts of the globe.

Fighting the Devil. . . Jeannie Walker
Jeannie Walker is an award winning true crime author. Fighting the Devil is the true story of one woman’s determination to see justice done.

Magic in the Backyard. . . Kellie Elmore.
Kellie presents a different kind of poetic writing that takes you back to days when magic truly existed in the backyard. Perhaps, it still does.

Daily Spiritual Tools. . . Sherry Woodcock
Where would we be without daily uplifting to guide us through the events of a seemingly world gone mad? Sherry’s latest posting Sacred Longing focuses on that deep, persistent need to know the presence of God within us and in all things.

A Hairdresser’s Diaries. . .Christine Hannon
Christine’s, aka sassiecercie, story is one of survival yet interlaced with moments, as she puts it, that will tickle your funny bone while she shares stories, jokes, embarrassing moments, poems and friendship.PhotoBotos. . . Charlie and Tom
Travel the earth through the camera lens of featured photographers. Enjoy an amazing photo every day.

Christina Li Books. . . Christina Li
Christina introduces herself as an author in the trenches. Her posts offer writing tips, encouragement, and humor. May you NEVER have a jellyfish bad day – posted under Humor: A REALLY bad day at work!

GREATPOETRYMHF’S Weblog. . . MaryHelen Ferris
Ah-h-h! The beauty of music, poetry and photography all in one blog! As MaryHelen so graciously puts it, Opening of Soul in poetry.

Darby’s Story and More. . . Martha Steward
Are you a lover of animals? Then, this is the blog for you: Inspiring stories of an adopted dog and a tailless cat. Darby’s Story and Bangle Bear are A Mom’s Choice Awards Silver Recipient.

Potato Chip Cats. . . Megan Cronin
“Cats are like potato chips. You can’t have just one.” Megan’s blog is not just about cats. Her motto is changing the world one giveaway at a time!

Terry’s Thoughts and Threads. . . Terry Palardy
Terry offers a avenue for discussion of books you’ve read, books you’ve written and want to share.

KidsCanDoIt!. . . Sandra McLeod Humphrey
Dare to Dream Big! This multi-award-winning author’s books are not just for kids.

Aspire. Motivate. Succeed!. . . AMS Daily Contributors
Great place for your daily dose of inspiration! Stop by for a visit and feed your soul.

WHEW! That’s it! I invite and encourage you to visit these amazing blogs. Within each is a reward of its own, perhaps your inspiration for tomorrow:)

3 Comments »