Why God Created the Cat

Posted on February 19, 2021 by WordPress.com Support

In honor of my favorite pet–sorry, I do not know who wrote this!

Why God Created the Cat

Adam said, “Lord, when I was in the garden, you walked with me every day. Now I do not see you anymore. I am lonesome here and it is difficult for me to remember how much you love me.”

And God said, “No problem! I will create a companion for you that will be with you forever and who will be a reflection of my love for you, so that you will love me even when you cannot see me. Regardless of how selfish or childish or unlovable you may be, this new companion will accept you as you are and will love you as I do, in spite of yourself.”

And God created a new animal to be a companion for Adam.

And it was a good animal.

And God was pleased.

And the new animal was pleased to be with Adam and he wagged his tail.

And Adam said, “Lord, I have already named all the animals in the Kingdom and I cannot think of a name for this new animal.”

And God said, “No problem! Because I have created this new animal to be a reflection of my love for you, his name will be a reflection of my own name, and you will call him DOG.”

And Dog lived with Adam and was a companion to him and loved him.

And Adam was comforted.

And God was pleased.

And Dog was content and wagged his tail.

After a while, it came to pass that Adam’s guardian angel came to the Lord and said, “Lord, Adam has become filled with pride. He struts and preens like a peacock and he believes he is worthy of adoration. Dog has indeed taught him that he is loved, but perhaps too well.”

And the Lord said, “No problem! I will create for him a companion who will be with him forever and who will see him as he is. The companion will remind him of his limitations, so he will know that he is not always worthy of adoration.”

And God created CAT to be a companion to Adam.

And Cat would not obey Adam.

And when Adam gazed into Cat’s eyes, he was reminded that he was not the supreme being.

And Adam learned humility.

And God was pleased.

And Adam was greatly improved.

And Dog was happy.

And the cat didn’t care one way or the other.

 

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“A Cowboy for Keeps” by Jody Hedlund

Posted on February 17, 2021 by WordPress.com Support

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Will Hard Work Make Dreams Come True?

Greta would do anything to help her little sister, Astrid, get well, including signing up to be a mail-order bride, and move across the country to marry a stranger.  Instead of finding better lives, the two arrive in Fairplay, Colorado, robbed, hungry and exhausted, only to discover her fiancé has died.  Now penniless, what will become of them in this small, hopeless place?

Wyatt is coerced into marrying Greta in exchange for secretly getting an investment in his cattle.  Greta and Wyatt work hard for the ranch to succeed, and try to live like a family for Astrid’s sake.  But every time they make progress, they face almost impossible hardships including someone purposely destroying their cattle to cause them to fail.

If Greta learns the truth of why their marriage took place, will she ever believe Wyatt could have feelings for her?  Will Astrid’s worsening health make it impossible for them all to stay together?  Does the surprising truth revealed towards the end of the tale break them up despite how they all feel?

Be prepared to be unable to put this book down, every turn of the page will bring more excitement.  Exploration of faith in God adds to the reality of the story.  This yarn stands alone, however, there is a big cliff hanger leading into the next installment in the series.  Those who like tales of the Old West, cowboys and romance will enjoy this 5-star book.

Bethany House Publishers has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, A Cowboy for Keeps, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/AuthorJodyHedlund

The Author’s Twitter:  https://twitter.com/JodyHedlund

The Author’s Website:  http://jodyhedlund.com/

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“The Moonlight School” by Suzanne Woods Fisher

Posted on February 12, 2021 by WordPress.com Support

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A Whole New World!

Leaving behind her 1911 city-life, Lucy has agreed to spend six months in the backwoods of Kentucky helping her cousin.

Lucy doesn’t know which is more shocking, how difficult it is to ride a horse, and discovering what a life of advantage she has led; or the severe poverty of the mountain population, along with the high amount of adult illiteracy that has led to the people being cheated.

Included in the story, is the mystery of what became of Charlotte, Lucy’s two-and-a-half-year-old sister, who disappeared without a trace.  With each passing year, the guilt Lucy has felt because of it, has caused her to retreat within herself more.

In this new situation, Lucy faces roadblocks at every turn.  The mountain people are naturally wary of strangers, but Angie takes it a step further, and is openly hostile to Lucy.

Will Lucy be taken in by Andrew’s charms, while being blinded to the unscrupulous things he does?  Will the prickly Angie provide an answer to Charlotte’s disappearance? Will the idea of adults going to school on moonlit nights catch on, or will outside forces put an end to the project?

This is a fictionalized tale based on real historic events.  I love this book, and you will, too– make sure you read this, it is amazing!  This tale will stay with you long after you have finished the last page.  The people’s trust and faith in God is a vital part of their daily life; it adds a richness and charm to this tale.  I highly recommend this 5+ star book to everyone!

Revell Publishers has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, The Moonlight School, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/SuzanneWoodsFisherAuthor

The Author’s Twitter:  https://twitter.com/suzannewfisher

The Author’s Website:  https://suzannewoodsfisher.com

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“The Purple Puffy Coat” by Maribeth Boelts

Posted on February 12, 2021 by WordPress.com Support

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

True Friendship!

Beetle gave his friend, Stick Bug, a wonderful gift—at least to Beetle–a purple puffy coat.  But Stick Bug has been unhappy ever since, because he doesn’t want to admit he hates the coat.  Children will giggle at the situations Stick Bug gets himself into instead of telling Beetle the truth.  At last, Beetle notices how sad his friend is every time he wears the coat, and they find a way to make them both happy.

Not only is this a cute story, there is an underlying truth, too.  People can be friends and still like different things, and if you try to be something you are not for a friend, you will be unhappy.  This idea is never too early for children to understand, and will make their friendships more genuine.

This over-sized picture book, with illustrations on every page easily makes this point while all wrapped up in a fun story.   Children through age seven will enjoy this 5-star book.

Candlewick Publishers has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, The Purple Puffy Coat, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Author’s Twitter:  https://twitter.com/maribethboelts

The Author’s Website:  https://maribethboelts.com/#contact

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“Wakey Birds” by Maddie Frost

Posted on February 7, 2021 by WordPress.com Support

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Will they ever sleep?

Calling Mr. Sandman!

Poor Wakey Bird can’t go to sleep.  Even the official sleep helpers, the Soothing Shushers and the Go-to-Sleep Leapers cannot get her to sleep. Unhappy she isn’t tired, she wakes up everyone else, including the two jungle dwellers that should never be disturbed:  The Shrieking Monkey, who is the loudest in the jungle; and the Dreaded Jungle Beast!

Little ones will have some fun shivers when the Jungle Beast demands to know who woke him up, and then stomps off to get something to “take care of her.”  But have no fear, what he brings back will cause happy smiles to appear on Wakey Birds and children alike.

Whether or not you, too, have a Wakey Bird, your child will love reading the misadventures that she has while trying to go to sleep.  This over-sized, hard-backed book is filled with colorful illustrations—also done by the author–that add to this hilarious story. This would be a good book to include in your bedtime routine, but children will love it any time of the day. I highly recommend this 5-star book to ages through six years old.

Candlewick Publishers has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, Wakey Birds, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Author’s Twitter:  https://twitter.com/_maddiefrost?lang=en

The Author’s Website:  https://www.maddie-frost.com/yay-books.html

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“Sing Me Back Home” by Amanda Mason

Posted on February 5, 2021 by WordPress.com Support

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

When Worlds Collide

Lane is a well-known country music star as famous for his songs, as his hard living.  Melanie is an up-and-coming Christian singer that has spent her life trying to lead people to God through her music.  Because of a series of unplanned events, the two of them meet, and sparks fly between them.

To fulfill his contract, Lane needs to do one more album and tour, but since he has met Melanie his lifestyle has changed. Both his music label and his brewery sponsor are so worried he won’t deliver, that they demand he give up Melanie.

Melanie’s sister, Jill, is giving her a hard time about seeing Lane.  Jill is constantly telling Melanie she is just another girl in the long line of women Lane has been with and dropped.  Her record label and sponsor are starting to worry that Lane is hurting Melanie’s testimony.  They don’t think the relationship is a good idea.

Are their feelings one-sided, or do both of them truly love the other?  Can Melanie and Lane give each other up? Won’t God make Lane a believer since God let Melanie fall in love with him?

Be ready for a tale you will not want to put down.  The characters and their problems are so realistic you will expect to see a headline about them in social media.  I highly recommend this 5-star book to every one who likes a well-written, great story!

The author has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, “Sing Me Back Home”, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/amandamasonauthor/

The Author’s Twitter:  https://twitter.com/authormason?lang=bg

The Author’s Website:  https://www.amandamasonauthor.com/about

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Giveaway ‘Twas the Morning of Easter by Glenys Nellist

Posted on February 2, 2021 by WordPress.com Support

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Celebrating the Release of ‘Twas the Morning of Easter With a Five Book Giveaway!

Wouldn’t you like to win one of these gorgeous books?

Yesterday, we heard about the new Easter book, ‘Twas the Morning of Easter, by Glenys Nellist.  Today, I am happy to tell you how you can win a copy of this book.

One winner will be chosen from Glenys Nellist’s Website, two winners on Facebook, and two winners on Instagram. Enter on all three platforms for maximum chances! Contest open to USA residents only with a physical street address.

Here’s how to enter:

Leave a comment on Glenys Nellist website, under this post, tell what is your favorite part of Easter:

https://www.glenysnellist.com/celebrating-the-release-of-twas-the-morning-of-easter-with-a-five-book-giveaway/

Leave a comment on this post on this Facebook Author Page:

https://www.facebook.com/GlenysNellistAuthor/

Enter on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/glenysnellist/

Sharing or tagging friends on any platform = extra entries.

That’s it! The five winners will be announced on Saturday February 6th, 2021.

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‘Twas the Morning of Easter, by Glenys Nellist

Posted on February 1, 2021 by WordPress.com Support

Joy Comes in the Morning!

Join the excitement and wonder of the first Easter morning.  Done in a rhythm similar to that used by Clement Moore in, “The Night Before Christmas,” this story shows the confusion of the soldiers guarding the tomb, along with the questions the disciples had that day. It also traces Mary’s preparation, disappointment, followed by the joy she had the morning she went to where Jesus was laid.  Included is the best thing of all she discovered there—Jesus is alive! This experienced children’s author has written this book on a child’s level so they can understand the importance of Easter, and why we celebrate it.  This over-sized, hard-backed volume contains appealing illustrations.  They capture the emotions of the day, and further tell this joyful story.  Children up to age eight will enjoy this 5-star book.

The author and Zonderkidz has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, ‘Twas the Morning of Easter, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/GlenysNellistAuthor/

The Author’s Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/glenysnellist/?hl=en

The Author’s Twitter:   https://twitter.com/GlenysNellist

The Author’s Website:  https://www.glenysnellist.com/twas-the-morning-of-easter/

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Cherry Crisp, Gluten-Free or Regular

Posted on January 31, 2021 by WordPress.com Support

PASTRY:

  • 1/8 teaspoon Sea Salt
  • 1/3 Cup Brown Sugar Swerve, or Brown Sugar
  • 1 ¼ Cups Gluten-Free or Regular Flour
  • 1/2 Cup Cold, Real Butter–cubed

FILLING:

  • 1/2 Cup Swerve, or Sugar
  • ¼ Cup Brown Sugar Swerve, or Brown Sugar
  • 1/4 Cup Cornstarch
  • 1 1/4 Cups Unsweetened All-Fruit Cherry Juice, or Unsweetened All-Fruit Cherry Juice Blend
  • 4 Cups frozen or fresh, pitted Red Cherries

TOPPING:

  • 3 Tablespoons Gluten-Free or Regular Panko Crumbs
  • ½ Cup finely chopped Pecans or Almonds
  • 1/3 Cup Gluten-Free or Regular Flour
  • 1/3 Cup Swerve, or Sugar
  • 1/3 Cup Gluten-Free Coconut or Regular Coconut
  • 1/3 Cup Real Butter

Directions

  • In a bowl, combine salt, Swerve and gluten-free flour; cut in butter. Press into a greased or oiled 9 x 13-in. baking pan. Bake at 350° F. for 18 minutes.
  • For filling, combine Swerves and cornstarch in a saucepan. Stir in juice. Cook over medium heat until thick, stirring constantly. Fold in cherries. Pour over baked crust.
  • For topping mix all dry ingredients together.  After well mixed, melt butter and add it, mixing completely.  Spoon evenly over top, covering completely.
  • Bake at 350° F. for 18 minutes.
  • Enjoy this easy-to-put-together dessert!  I think it tastes best warm!!

This delicious dessert can be served as is, or with whipped cream, ice cream, or sour cream.  My favorite is unsweetened Vanilla Yogurt.

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Make it Yourself Evaporated Milk, Naturally Gluten Free

Posted on January 30, 2021 by WordPress.com Support

Place 3 cups cashew milk in a double boiler.

Over medium to low heat, cook it down for 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on how hot your burner is, stir it occasionally. Reduce it so that it is about half the amount you started with. I cooked mine on fairly low, because I didn’t want it burn, so it took a while. Stir it once in a while.

The canned versions of alternative evaporated milk started disagreeing with me, but this has not caused me any problems.  It has been used in all my recipes that call for evaporated milk and has worked just fine.  I have not tried this with any other alternative milks.

This is very easy to do, the hardest thing about it is the time it takes to cook down, but you can get it started and work on other things while this comes together!

Posted in Gluten Free Recipes, Gluten-Free Condiments, Sauces & Misc., Regular Recipes | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment