DFB’s 5 Favorite Posts from September 2016

Hello and welcome back!

Wow, another month is come and gone, and before you know it, we will be welcoming 2017!

As you can tell, I haven’t yet published Adventure #3, but I promise I am close, and I will keep you posted…

So for September, I’ve got some great posts for you to check out. From a republished interview with the Amazing Roald Dahl, himself, to Beatrix Potter, to two new publishing companies, dedicated to improving the literary future of the world’s children…

Let’s begin!

roald-dahl-answers-a-telephone-while-filming-an-episode-of-the-science-fiction-show_way-out_-in-central-park-new-york-march-25-1961-photograph_-cbs-photo-archive_getty-image

Photo Credit to CBS Archive/Getty Image, from The Irish Times article: Roald Dahl: “Children only read for fun; you’ve got to hold their attention,” shared by Una Lehane

From The Irish Times, on September 2, 2016, they republished an interview with Dahl back in 1982. To ‘hear’ his words about the need for humour and a strong plot, and how he got started writing children’s books… as if he spoke them just yesterday, was a rare treat indeed. Thank you, Irish Times, and Una Lehane, for sharing!

Photo Credit: roalddahl.tumblr.com

From The Navhind Times, on September 18, 2016, Article: “Fun with Gobblefunk!” by Jugneeta Sudan. This was an entertaining look at the magic of Roald Dahl… Who he was as a person, a father/grandfather, and how he not only created magical experiences all around him but how he insisted on magic & wonder being put to use to inspire children.

The Tale of Kitty-In-Boots available on Amazon

From CNN.com, on September 9, 2016, Article: Discovered Beatrix Potter tale “Kitty-In-Boots” releases, by Ashley Strickland. A big THANK YOU, to Ms. Strickland for sharing this… 150 years after the anniversary of the birth of Beatrix Potter, the author famous for “The Tale of Peter Rabbit,” comes a new release, of a tale, never before seen or told until now. Special BONUS: It has been Illustrated by Quentin Blake! The same Quentin Blake, famous for the artwork in Roald Dahl’s books, such as BFG and Matilda!

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Photo Credit: Cork Innovates

From Cork Innovates, on September 6, 2016, Article: Cork Innovates Speaks to Gail Condon about her Publishing Startup, the Cork Startup Scene and her hopes for the future” by Molly. Calling themselves the Beatrix Potter of modern day, Writing For TiNY is an Irish Company who make highly personalized children’s picture books about changes, worries and milestones for all types of children, from different types of families, for various types of situations. I think these folks are on to something. They’ve got an innovative way of personalizing Children’s books, using a software designed and owned by Writing For TiNY, that is soon to be in the U.S.

The Bee Who Sneezed by Stephen Evans and Mic Ru available on Amazon

From The Las Cruces Bulletin, on September 9, 2016, Article: “Veteran Discovers the True Power of a Children’s Book,” by Susie Ouderkirk. After a tour of duty that took him to an island in the Maldives, Stephen Evans was inspired from the reception of a book he wrote, exclusively for the children inhabiting that island. That experience led to two veterans (Evans and Mic Ru), teaming up as writer and illustrator of children’s books, published by their new company, cleverly called “2nd Tour Publishing,” a 100% veteran-owned and operated company. With other books lined up already, their first book, “A Bee Who Sneezed,” is available on Amazon, now.

Alright… I’ve got to get back to work! Talk to you soon, with updates on Adventure#3!

Love,

DFB

5 Lessons I learned from Roald Dahl

I’m just going to jump right in with my list… I mean, everyone has been celebrating Roald Dahl this month. After all, it is his birthday month. I adore Roald Dahl, and even though I’ve been busy with the upcoming book and interviews, I’d hate to have to wait another year to honor him. So, Happy Birthday Mr. Dahl! Thank you for inspiring so many, including a little piece of candy like myself! I always wondered if the Butterscotch and Buttergin, from Charlie & the Chocolate Factory, were somehow related to my family…

5 Lessons I learned from Roald Dahl

#5 To Dream Big and to Believe in the Impossible

Before I ever read C.S. Lewis or J.K. Rowling, I enjoyed growing up reading the wonderful words and exploring the worlds of Roald Dahl. I learned there were friendly giants hiding in plain site and mean ones who were too dumb to find me. I learned about telepathy and the power of a good heart and strong mind. I learned that through reading, anything was possible. I also learned that it’s okay, to leave your abusers, and some grown-ups truly are Twits, and Monsters and Madmen aren’t always who you think they are.

Dumb Giants from The BFG

The Trunchbull & Matilda

Matilda, Reading

Little Red in a Wolfskin Coat (from Revolting Rhymes)

Photos from: BFG, Matilda, and Revolting Rhymes

#4 A Title of a Book or an Idea for a Story is as easy as turning a word, and that NONSENSE is the Universal Language of Childhood.

I enjoyed the preposterous names of characters and places. I enjoyed reading about places and gadgets and foods and creatures… all NONSENSE. And if you have noticed from some of my posts, I LOVE NONSENSE. Take Esiotrot, for example. Prime example of pure Dahlian Genius: A story about a little old man, in love with his neighbor, a little old lady, and how he tries to woo her/win her love in return. The story does involve a lot of senseless tortoise buying, but it is still a cute story… and all from turning a word.

Esio Trot, Back Cover

#3 The Importance of a Great Illustrator

All hail the magical Illustrating talents of Quentin Blake. His unique style set Roald Dahl’s books apart from so many others that crowd the shelves of libraries and bookstores, around the globe. And I don’t know about you, but the characters always looked how they were described…

The BFG

#2 That the Littlest People, the shy, quiet, forgotten nobodies… usually have the biggest hearts and the saddest beginnings, but in the end… they still manage to become someone’s hero.

Bruce Bogtrotter: Hero

#1 The Importance of Food in a Story

From reading his stories, I was always tickled by the different foods. It was in his books that I first learned that food was an important element to a story. When poor Bruce had to eat the whole chocolate cake, I felt his pain. When Violet ate the gum that tasted like a full meal, well… I love roast beef and blueberry pie! My mouth watered right along with the descriptions. And then the newt in the water glass, the tv dinners for supper… too many to recall off hand. But later, as I am pursuing my writing “career,” I have found that food truly is an important element.

When I saw there was a Recipe Book, I was ecstatic! I couldn’t wait to “try” Snozzcumbers(BFG), Mosquitoes’ Toes and Wampfish Roes Most Delicately Fried (James and the Giant Peach), Bird Pie (The Twits), or Eatable Marshmallow Pillows (Charlie & the Chocolate Factory).

Snozzcumbers (BFG)

Mosquitoes’ Toes and Wampfish Roes Most Delicately Fried (James & the Giant Peach

Bird Pie (The Twits)

Eatable Marshmallow Pillows (Charlie & the Chocolate Factory)

I have since found out that there is in fact, another Recipe Book, and SO MANY more books from the Creative Genius of Roald Dahl’s mind. How lucky this world has been to have had such a talented being living among us, showing us a side of this world we hadn’t yet seen.

In Loving Memory of Roald Dahl September 13, 1916- November 23, 1990

Interview with Calayla Cantor

Hello and welcome back! Today we have a very special guest, Calayla Cantor, famous Folksinger/Zitar player…

Welcome, Calayla!

Calayla Cantor: Hello Dirty Foot, and Hello to your great audience. I am happy to be here!

DFB: And we are definitely pleased to have you here as well. Now, I know you’re a busy performer, and I am so grateful you made time to sit down with me.

I have prepared 15 questions for you today, shall we begin?

CC: Fire away!

DFB: Okay, first question… I think you’ll find this one fairly easy, How long have you been singing?

CC: Since 1987

DFB: Wow, okay… 2nd question, on a scale of 1-10, how well do you think you sing?

CC: Do I think I sing? How well? Hmm… I’d really have to say a solid 8.

DFB: Really? Alright, I like your confidence. Humble and not too arrogant. Question 3, Do you write your own songs?

CC: Yes, every one of them. I enjoy expressing myself through creative word use.

DFB: and what genre is it that you mostly sing? I’m sorry, that was question #4…

CC: Well, I play the Zitar, which is a guitar-type instrument played in India. And I sing folk-type songs… so, I don’t know, does that classify as a genre?

DFB: *Laughs* I don’t know, maybe! Okay, question 5, If you weren’t singing, what would you be doing?

CC: Am I still playing the Zitar?

DFB: No.

CC: Hmm. I don’t know… Maybe I’d spend more time traveling, and advocating for a cleaner environment, and encouraging more people to spend time outdoors. More than I already do, that is!

DFB: Okay, let’s get to the more interesting questions…

CC: Uh oh.

DFB: No, they’re nothing bad… well, maybe… Question #6, what’s the most embarrassing song you have on your MP3 player/IPOD, right now?

CC: Well, I’m not sure if it’s embarrassing or not, but it is a funny song I try to listen to every Friday morning. Kind of a throw back to when I lived in Las Vegas… The Toast Song, by Bob & Tom.

DFB: Oh my gosh, really? I love that song!

CC: Yeah, it’s great. It really makes me smile. They used to play it every Friday morning along with some other fun songs…

DFB: Yeah, I remember. Perfect. And no, I don’t think it’s embarrassing at all. Moving on… Question #7, where is the strangest place you have ever performed?

CC: That would have to be in a broken-down elevator.

DFB: I’m sure there’s a story behind that…?

CC: Oh yes. So I once did an impromptu performance in an elevator that got stuck when the power went out. The backup emergency lights were on, but that didn’t help the toddler and his mom, who were both petrified with fear. So I began singing to them. In fact, I sang until the power came on again, about an hour and a half later.

DFB: Really? What did you sing?

CC: Is that an official question 8?

DFB: Um, no… but I’m so curious and I’m sure my readers are too… please?

CC: Okay, you twisted my petals! I started out with a couple of my own songs, you know, like, “Papers Rustling in the Wind,” and “Warm Evening Breezes.” But then as they began to relax, and the kiddo was falling asleep, I switched to “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star,” and just sang it en-loop. It’s something I’d do all the time for my nieces and nephews to get them to sleep when they were little.

DFB: That’s a great story! Question #8… What is the craziest gift you’ve received from a fan?

CC: A super-tiny pencil. It was actually a standard-sized pencil, at least I’m assuming it was. But it had been sharpened down to the metal of the eraser end.

DFB: Um… that is a bit weird… on to question #9 since I don’t have a clever response to that! What is your greatest indulgence?

CC: Well balanced, liquid fertilizer and well-drained soil. I like and need to look and feel my best since I have such a long performing season.

DFB: True. You being a Petunia and all, you perform Spring to Frost, right?

CC: Question # 10?

DFB: NO… nevermind! Question 10, Do you have a favorite place to be or visit?

CC: Yes! Anywhere sunny! And by the way, yes. Since I’m a Petunia, I perform non-stop from Spring to Frost.

DFB: Thank you.

CC: No problem. What’s question 11?

DFB: What book or books are on your shelves at home, waiting to be read?

CC: You’re probably going to think I’m a slacker, but “Harry Potter & the Cursed Child.”

DFB: JK Rowling’s book? You haven’t read it yet?

CC: No. Have you?

DFB: No. Not yet. I’ve been incredibly busy with work.

CC: Me too. When you do get a chance to read it, maybe you can call me back here and we can discuss it?

DFB: That would be awesome! I’d love to. Alright, last four. Question 12, What upsets you, what makes you mad?

CC: I HATE Bullying. I was bullied as a kid and teased for my glasses and buck teeth. I’ve of course had braces since then, but I still wear glasses. I absolutely HATE Bullying. Did you know next month is National Bullying Awareness Month?

DFB: Yes, I did. And I see you already are wearing your Awareness Ribbon.

CC: Yes, thank you for noticing. It really is important to me. I feel we need to all work together to fix both ends of the spectrum. Help the victims AND the bullies.

DFB: I agree. *sigh* This is getting good, and we’re almost to the end. Question 13, What is one thing folks would be surprised to find out about you?

CC: You know, it never ceases to amaze me. I’m constantly getting emails, or letters asking me what kind of shoes I like, etc…BUT,

DFB: …you have no feet!

CC: I have NO FEET! I do have roots that I like to keep warm and somewhere in between moist and slightly damp, but definitely no FEET. Hence, I don’t wear shoes.

DFB: Alright, hopefully, some of your fans paid attention to that! Last two, Question 14, Are you a hugger, or a non-hugger? and why?

CC: I am totally a hugger! Whenever I can, I’m hugging people. Fans and family alike! I love the closeness and instant warmth you get from a hug, and I like to share that feeling with others!

DFB: Me too! So, what’s next? Question 15 is really just we’re curious, what’s next on your agenda, what are you working on right now?

CC: I was thinking about working on another album, or perhaps going on tour soon. I’m kind of in limbo as far as plans go, for right now since I’ve just wrapped up a few projects for this year.

DFB: Yes, you have been busy! Well, Calayla, I’d like to thank you again for stopping by. I look forward to hearing your new album.

CC: Yes, and I look forward to discussing the latest HP book, as well as seeing your latest, Adventure #3! Any idea how soon you’ll be releasing it?

DFB: I’m putting the finishing touches on now. Shouldn’t be too much longer, I hope!

CC: Great, good deal! Talk to you soon!

DFB: Yes, you take care!

Well, that was fun! And you heard it here… not too much longer and I’ll be releasing Adventure #3 Starring Spotted Bag, “That Terribly Ugly Feeling.”

Uh oh! I wonder what’s going to happen?

Until next time!

DFB’s 5 Favorite Posts from August 2016

Alright! It’s good to be back!

Did you miss me?

“Who am I?” you say?

🙂 I’m just a little piece of candy, wrapped in cellophane, trying to understand this beautiful world.

I decided instead of doing a ‘Favorite Blog Posts’ I would tell you all about some great news in the world of Children’s Literature. So in no particular order, here they are:

* From slate.com 8/10/16 Post Title: Watership Down and the Power of Not-Quite-Appropriate Children’s Books by Nicole Cliffe

YESSS!!! This. Right. Here. I needed to hear this. When I wrote the first edition of ‘A Most Wonderful Remarkable “Something” Starring Spotted Bag,’ I was told by the library’s buyer that the language in my book was too grown for the age group I was ‘targeting.’ Well, apparently I am not the only one who speaks to children as if they are Real People and NOT imbeciles!

Stock Photo of Watership Down by Richard Adams

* From LIHerald.com 8/10/16 Post Title: Wantagh author aims to make reading fun by Briana Bonfiglio

“The Juggling Clowns of the Ever Changing Circus.” Whew! That was a mouthful! I like it!

I love long titles, and I LOVE nonsense! Written by a school teacher, illustrated by her mother, and available at her elementary school as well as the local town library, and on Amazon. I’m ordering my copy, I’ll let you know how it is!

Stock Photo of The Juggling Clowns of the Ever Changing Circus by Melanie Schnaier

* From Your Houston News/ The Katy Rancher 8/30/16 Post Title: Katy art center stages children’s book as musical by (? I’m not sure by whom. It simply doesn’t list an author)

This is just exciting news! A children’s book, “Batina’s Best First Day,’ about the Tooth Fairy, has been turned into a musical of six songs and is scheduled to be performed by a cast of children at the Katy Visual Performing Arts Center, this fall. How cool, is that?

Stock Photo Image of Batina’s Best First Day by Denise Ditto

* From SC Now Morning News 08/14/16 Post Title: Florence niece and aunt team up for release of first children’s book by Shamira McCray

Yay! What a neat story. I LOVE hearing about family members being supportive of young authors! Young Abigail’s book, “Baboon and Bad Revenge,” available on Amazon, represents not only her creativity but also her great aunt Dona’s positive effect on this young lady’s future!

Baboon and Bad Revenge by Abigail Graham Photo Credit: Shamira McCray

* From Plainsman.com 08/30/16 Post Title: Sturgis teen to share new children’s book at S.D. State Fair by (? I’m not sure by whom. It simply doesn’t list an author)

And finally, one more great accomplishment for our young people! Young Danika Gordon has penned the newly released “Great Faces From South Dakota: How Big Can You Dream? ” In addition to kudos from the governor’s wife (First Lady Linda Daugaard), she (Danika) was given the auspicious honor of sharing her book two days in a row, at the S.D. State Fair. Great Job, Danika!

Stock Photo Image of Great Faces From South Dakota: How Big Can You Dream? by Danika Gordon and Joanna Jones Illustrated by Sharon Grey

Well, I know it has been a while since my last real post (Besides the Frizz’s Happy Birthday Post), and I know that has been incredibly rude of me. I am sorry.

I do have a bit of good news, however!

I’m almost done with Adventure #3, and in honor of Porkchop (His birthday is in September), I’m hoping to have it complete and available THIS MONTH!

Also, this month, look for my next Character Interview with a special star of Adventure #3, Calayla Cantor!

Talk to you soon!

Love,

DFB

Happy Birthday, Ms. Frizzle!!

To purchase the complete DVD set, head on over to Amazon by clicking the picture!

I grew up on the Magic School Bus.

Okay, not really, but I loved watching the Frizz take the kids on excellent adventures.

The way she explained how everything worked, is still genius today.

So, no, it’s not the Frizz’s birthday, but it is the wondrous Lily Tomlin’s, who just so happened to be the distinct voice of Ms. Frizzle!

Happy Birthday, Lily!

Thank you for reminding us to #TakeChances and #MakeMistakes #Wahoo

Interview with the Elusive Porkchop

February 21, 2016

Hello, and welcome back!

A couple weeks back I promised I’d try and get an interview with a friend of Fluffy Pink Slipper’s and Spotted Bag’s named, Porkchop.

He is very hard to get a hold of because he works a very top secret job with computers. But he did agree to reveal 5 things about himself, as long as the questions I would ask could be answered with just a single word each.

So I thought as I made my list, who is Porkchop?

He is shy, mysterious even.

He is sarcastic.

And he is a long-time acquaintance of Spotted Bag.

But what else?

Whew, this is going to be interesting…

Where to start?

Alright, here’s the list of questions I sent over to him and the answers I received back:

(the “*’d” responses are my thoughts on his answers)

Question #1: Your favorite color?

Porkchop: Blue (btw, boring question)

Question #2: Favorite word?

Segue

*I like this word too. It is pronounced: Say-guay, and it is a way of saying lead into a new subject. It is also the word for those two wheel carts people stand on to cruise around on, like at the beach or at the mall.

Question #3: In one word, describe the friendship you and Spotted Bag share.

Ridiculous!

*lol

Question #4: If Spotted Bag changed jobs, what job should it be?

Not a SINGER!

*I wonder why that is?

Question #5: Can we do a better interview with questions and answers and tea, when you are not on a secret job?

No.

Well, he sure seems busy. Like I said, he’s a tough guy to get a hold of. He is extremely nice, you can count on him if you’re in a pickle. He’s just not much for conversations. He’s what people call an “introvert,” it means he prefers the quietness that being alone, brings.

Luckily, you will get to see more of him in Adventure #3, That Terribly Ugly Feeling coming September 2016.

Well, as always, thank you for stopping by, hope to see you soon!

Love,

DFB

List Ten: Books and Activities for the Month of February, 2016

February 2, 2016

Hello Again!

Today is February 2^nd, also known as Groundhog Day.

I remember being in Elementary school learning all about that little critter named Punxsutawney Phil who lives in Pennsylvania. Every year, this little guy is asked to come out of his hole in the ground, and when he does, if he sees his shadow, he then affects the whole seasonal change from winter to spring!

Now that’s one powerful rodent!

I’d just love to know more, wouldn’t you?

A screengrab of a video by the tourism website of the state of Pennsylvania shows the groundhog Punxsutawney Phil being watched for signs of his shadow.

Groundhog 2016

Well, in celebration of Punxsutawney Phil’s special day, I’m writing this post to let everyone know about some great blogs and websites out there that have taken the time to gather together many different books and activities, not only about Phil, but for the whole month of February itself!

Did you know there’s a lot going on this month?

#1 Well for starters, it is Black History Month. That means, this month we should all take some time to focus on the great influences the African-Americans of history have had on our great world. Their history is rich in culture and sacrifices.

(Although personally I think their history should be fully integrated with all history lessons, and taught all year, but until that time…)

Let’s honor them and check out some of these books and maybe, do an activity or two?

I found this list on ayearofmanyfirsts.com

A great list from: abooklongenough.com

Check out this list from whatdowedoallday.com

And for some great Activity ideas, head on over to:

http://arlenesandberg.blogspot.com/2015/01/celebrating-black-history-month-with.html

arlenesandberg.blogspot.com

#2 February is also National Dental Care Month, meaning we should all focus on taking better care of our mouth and everything in it – our teeth, our gums – they’re important!

So I’d like to share with you what I found for books, tips, and activities for National Dental Care Month…

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Found on: mylifeandkids.com what an amazing site! So much good info! She not only has these books listed, but tips on teeth care, activities to make it all fun… and tons more!! Check it out!!!

Here’s a few more books you might like…

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0545484383?keywords=animal%20teeth&qid=1454449743&ref_=sr_1_1_twi_pap_1&sr=8-1

http://www.amazon.com/Magic-School-Missing-Scholastic-Reader/dp/0439801079/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1454449880&sr=8-1&keywords=magic+school+bus+teeth

http://www.amazon.com/Tooth-Bright-Early-Board-Books/dp/0375824928/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1454449925&sr=8-1&keywords=the+tooth+book

http://www.amazon.com/Brush-Rookie-Toddler/dp/0531252361/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1454449952&sr=1-1&keywords=brush+brush+brush

#3 Some people feel February is a great month to focus on fitness.

So with that in mind, here are a few sites I found with some great book listings and activities to encourage kids to be fit and healthy this month:

found on themeasuredmom.com

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To see more info on kid yoga, go to: http://www.kidsyogastories.com/yoga-cards-for-kids-games/

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I found this neat “Wheel of Fitness” on http://www.eagered.com/w/w-is-for-wheel-fitness

And here’s another book you might like,

e086f98e4349a9655257ea80ff6e5e65 http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/good-for-me-and-you-mercer-mayer/1102898293?ean=9780060539481

At school, Little Critter learns all about having a healthy lifestyle—from a balanced diet and the food pyramid to exercises that keep him in shape. Now Little Critter can show his family how to stay fit and have fun doing it!

#4 Okay, so like I said earlier, today is Groundhog Day. So for those of you interested in knowing more, check out these books…

http://abccreativelearning.com/10-cute-kids-books-groundhog-day/

http://www.bloglovin.com

#5 Alright, Sunday, February 7th is Super Bowl #50. To celebrate, why not read some of these books about football, and try a couple of these neat recipes?

29f3b131f107b87c5c9afe57c915a116 Found this list on http://www.fantasticfirstgradefroggies.com/2015/01/touchdown-sport-resources-and-football.html

645d6cf4bcd8cf1cc25a9414b8d70032 Here’s some yummy recipes to try, found on http://paigespartyideas.com/super-bowl-party-ideas/

c2e6a93f150562d74bba24a7e64357ce Here’s a few more recipes.. these ones found on: http://madincrafts.com/football-party-friendly-recipes/

And how about some Photo Booth ideas?

5b5f21b8c0d275c813f57ee417714ee4 Thanks to http://www.sportsmomsurvivalguide.com/super-bowl-party-photo-booth-props/#_a5y_p=3205237 for the great ideas!

Or better yet, it is Fitness February, how about a nice game of football?

Alright, what’s next?

#6 Monday, February 8th is Chinese New Year – the Year of the Monkey. How about reading up on this Chinese holiday and try making a Chinese lantern?

http://youthlitreviews.com/2014/01/13/chinese-new-year-books-for-kids/

http://www.giftofcuriosity.com/books-about-chinese-new-year-for-kids/#_a5y_p=3039225

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For sale on: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Chinese-New-Year-1688798

c16dcead01e751e29a37da08daa944bc Found this cool tutorial on: http://innerchildfun.com/2015/02/chinese-new-year-crafts-activities.html

#7 When most people think of February they think Valentine’s Day. They associate this day with the colors red and pink, they think of hearts, and above all – love. But why?

240px-Antique_Valentine_1909_01

for more info, you could check out wikipedia’s page: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valentine%27s_Day

Valentine’s Day is February 14th. Here are some books for Valentine’s Day for you to read, and of course a few suggested activities and recipes…

Click here to learn more!

http://www.123homeschool4me.com/2013/01/valentines-day-2-chocolate-playdoh.html

http://www.123homeschool4me.com/2015/01/red-hot-valentines-day-slime-for-kids.html

http://www.andnextcomesl.com/2015/08/chocolate-soap-foam-sensory-play.html#_a5y_p=4181765

Click on the above images to find out more and follow the links!

And Finally, how about some really yummy recipes?

http://www.cutefoodforkids.com/2012/02/50-treat-ideas-for-valentines-day.html

http://www.iheartnaptime.net/diy-crafts/

#8 The 15th of February this year is Presidents’ Day. This is a day to honor and remember all of the men who have thus far served as President of the United States. Do you have a favorite president? Would you like to know more?

Well check out these books…

http://blog.memetales.com/2013/02/15-childrens-books-about-presidents-for-presidents-day-reading/

http://the-teacher-next-door.com/index.php/blog/61-blog-holiday-ideas/155-a-dozen-books-for-president-s-day

#9 Dia de La Bandera is celebrated in Mexico on 24 February. It is their Flag Day, the day they honor their national flag. Why not learn more about Mexico and their culture? And maybe try a few recipes?

http://www.planetsmarty.com/2014/04/read-and-learn-about-mexico.html

http://happybrownhouse.com/mexico-books-for-kids/#_a5y_p=4553036

Visit benandme.com

http://www.the36thavenue.com/cinco-de-mayo-party-ideas/

https://cookpad.com/es/recetas/139136-gelatina-de-la-bandera-de-mexico

http://www.actividadesparapreescolar.com/

http://kidworldcitizen.org/2012/05/12/the-story-of-the-mexican-flag/

#10 This February, is a special February. This year is Leap Year. This means we get an extra day! Instead of twenty-eight days this month, we get twenty-nine! Why?

Well there aren’t many books that I found, but I did find these two:

http://www.amazon.com/Birthday-Finally-Leap-Year-Story/dp/0972717951/?ref=as_li_tf_cw

http://www.amazon.com/Mommy-Wheres-Birthday-Lakisha-Cornell/dp/1608607518/?qid=1330117635&ref=sr_1_7&ie=UTF8&sr=8-7

But an online search led me to this site:

http://www.timeanddate.com/date/leapyear.html

And here’s wikipedia’s:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leap_year

And I found this neat chart on Pinterest:

Click on picture to go to site

Here are some activities to do just to celebrate and have fun on your extra day!!

http://ckisloski.blogspot.com/2015/03/five-for-friday-march-20.html?m=1

https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Leap-Year-Leap-Day-2249647

http://www.mnn.com/family/family-activities/blogs/29-fun-things-to-do-on-leap-day

Hope this gave you some great ideas!

Until next time!

Love,

DFB

P.S. I’ve tried my best to ensure all proper credit went to the original gatherers of the information I have provided. If links are not working properly, please copy and paste them into your browsers. Thanks Again!!

10 Questions with Fluffy Pink Slipper

January 23, 2016

Dirty Foot Butterscotch: So welcome Fluffy Pink Slipper. It is good to have you here today. Thank you for taking the time to sit and talk with me for my readers. I’ve written ten questions for you to answer so they can get to know you and a bit about Spotted Bag.

Fluffy Pink Slipper: It’s my pleasure. Thank you for having me. I’ll do my best. Btw, congratulations, I heard through the grapevine that you finally finished Adventure #2. Is that right?

DFB: Yes, that’s correct. It will be being released March 10^th. I also just finished revising and updating Adventure #1, the book where our readers first got a chance to meet both you and Spotted Bag.

FPS: Oh really? That’s exciting! Why did you revise Adventure #1?

DFB: I wanted it to match the design of Adventure #2, and I’m just a little more pleased with the options that are available now this time around.

FPS: Well I can’t wait to see them!

DFB: I’ll pass on the previews at the end of this interview that both you and the readers can check out when we’re done.

FPS: Okay, sounds good.

DFB: Okay, well before we get started, let me just say you look great. Did you do something different with your hair?

FPS: Yes, I’ve let it grow out since the last time you saw me.

DFB: I see, well again, I like it. You definitely look more “fluffy.” So, let’s begin with a little bit about you. Do you have any siblings?

FPS: Yes, I have a twin sister who lives in California named Poofy.

DFB: Okay, and uh what do you do for a living?

FPS: I am an Orthopedic Specialist.

DFB: Oh that sounds fancy. So you work with feet, then?

FPS: Yes.

DFB: Alright, tell me about an embarrassing moment for you.

FPS: Oh, um, well, I’ve had quite a few… but one that I can think of right off the top of my head was the time I just got ready and stepped out of the dryer. I was in such a hurry I never stopped to look in the mirror before I left. I’d probably seen about six patients at work before someone pointed out that I had a dryer sheet stuck to my back end!

DFB: Oh my gosh!! That IS embarrassing!

FPS: Yeah tell me about it.

DFB: Okay, and uh, we’ve been having quite a bit of rain lately. So how do you spend a rainy day?

FPS: On a rainy day, you’ll find me propped up by the fire, just trying to stay dry and toasty.

DFB: Yes, that is nice isn’t it? Alright, let’s talk a bit about you and Spotted Bag. How long have you two been friends?

FPS: We’ve been friends for right around 15 years.

DFB: Uh-huh. And could you tell us how you two met?

FPS: I was flying back from visiting my sister, and somehow, after we landed I got a little lost and didn’t make it in time to the carrousel to get my things. So I went to luggage claim, and it was Spotted Bag who was working behind the desk. She was so helpful and friendly. She really helped me calm down and find my stuff. She even called a taxi to pick me up right outside the building. We’ve been friends ever since.

DFB: Oh. Does she still work at the airport?

FPS: No she’s now doing leadership and empowerment seminars.

DFB: Oh, well that does seem like something she would be good at. Okay, could you tell me about a fun memory you have of the two of you?

FPS: Halloween a few years ago, I dressed as a top hat, and she dressed as a hula dancer. We were invited to a Costume Party at our friend Porkchop’s house. We played games, and danced… It was a great night.

DFB: A top hat and a hula dancer? I would’ve loved to see that!

FPS: Well I did bring a picture.

DFB: Really? May I see it?

(She hands me the picture) Aaw this is great!! Can I share it with the readers?

FPS: Absolutely!

DFB: Wonderful. Okay, so having been Spotted Bag’s friend for 15 years you must really know her. So does she have any interesting secrets?

FPS: Well if she did, a good friend would never tell her friend’s secrets.

DFB: Good answer. Okay, what about talents? Does she have any special talents?

FPS: I swear she’s unbreakable and can handle a lot. The more you give her, the more she just opens up and bears the burden without any complaints. She truly is remarkable.

DFB: Yeah, I’ve known her long enough to have to agree with that. Okay, last question, you, do you have any special talents?

FPS: Well, I never lose my form. No matter what pressure I’m put under, I always spring back. I think that is something Spotted Bag has helped me evolve.

DFB: Beautiful. Alright well thank you Fluffy Pink Slipper for joining us today. I really enjoyed your company, and I hope to speak with you again soon.

FPS: No problem. Thank you for inviting me. Maybe we could do lunch sometime?

DFB: Maybe.

Well I hope you guys enjoyed our little interview. Next month I’m going to try to get that friend of theirs Fluffy Pink Slipper spoke about, Porkchop. I’ve met him before, he’s a nice guy. But I do know besides being shy he is also extremely busy. So we will see.

Otherwise, take care and come back and visit sometime.

Love,

DFB

Click on either Book Cover for link to preview!

Halloween!

Adventure #2 To Be released on March 10th! See preview, here: https://www.createspace.com/Preview/1185066

Revised/2nd edition of Adventure #1! Will be available February 14th 2015. See preview, here: https://www.createspace.com/Preview/1185141