Monday, November 26, 2012

Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars



When you cook with butter and sugar, you can never go wrong!
I took some of these bars to my book signings at Deseret Book in Ogden, and the Bear Lake Craft Fair. Everyone thought they were so good, they wanted the recipe. So, here it is.
They are so very easy to make. I always make a double recipe. You get a lot of dessert for a little amount of work. Just my style!

Sunday, November 25, 2012

English Toffee






Toffee is one of my favorite holiday candies. I like to make it because it’s fast and easy. It’s also fail-proof once you know how to do it. You can make it with or without nuts, depending on your taste and allergies. I love it with sliced almonds, but my favorite is fresh chopped walnuts. We have a walnut tree in our back yard. (The squirrel and I have a contest each fall to see who gets the nuts. When I get there first, he scolds me soundly.)

Monday, November 19, 2012


Delivering Hope by Jennifer Ann Holt
What an inspiring book this is! I loved reading it.
Olivia and Michael are unable to have children. Through years of waiting, anticipation, hope and prayer, the fertility doctors finally tell them there is no chance of them getting pregnant.  Olivia has a difficult time accepting this path until she reads her Great Aunt Elizabeth’s journal and finds that this grand lady walked the same road with honor and dignity, giving love and service throughout her life.
Allison is a model young woman, active in the Church and a good student with plans to attend college after high school graduation. A night of poor decisions changes her life forever, and she finds herself in the Bishop’s office, telling him that she’s pregnant.
The author has skillfully presented all the obstacles that line the paths for each situation. Her understanding of the issues for both parties is presented with depth and insight.
As a retired Marriage and Family Therapist, I would love to have had this book for my couples who faced infertility as well as the young girls I worked with who found themselves pregnant. My hat is off to you, Jennifer. This is a well-written book. I give it a great recommendation.
Jennifer says:
“I am donating my royalties for books sold during November (excluding e-books) to the National Council For Adoption's The Hope Challenge project (www.thehopechallenge.org). My publisher has agreed to donate $1/book sold of their profits, and with the help of several other charitable foundations who will be matching these donations, $5 will be donated to this terrific cause for every copy of Delivering Hope that sells during November!

Christy Monson, L.M.F.T., Retired.

"Jennifer Holt" <jenniferannholt@yahoo.com>,

Wednesday, November 14, 2012

Gratitude



“Gratitude is the twin sister of humility” James E. Talmage

And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers

Monday, November 12, 2012

Uplifting Reads: 'Texting Through Time: John Taylor and the Mystery Puzzle' Book Tour

Uplifting Reads: 'Texting Through Time: John Taylor and the Mystery Puzzle' Book Tour

Rules and Relationships


Rules and Relationships

Relationships with children and youth are so important because the majority of our learning takes place in the context of relationships. Consider the lessons you learned as a child. Where did the most important ones come from?

Friday, November 9, 2012

Giveaway Hop

Join the Giveaway hop, November 15th through the 25th.
Follow this blog and leave a comment. You're entered to win
Texting Through Time, John Taylor and the Mystery Puzzle.
Good Luck, and thanks for following.  Christy

Thursday, November 8, 2012

Kris Kringle's Magic


Kris Kringle’s Magic by Diane Stringham Tolley is a fun family read.
In a world where elves are only slaves, one boy is determined to make things right. With the elves' help, Kris decides to begin with the children. But can a pile of gifts on Christmas Eve really change anything? This enchanting story is sure to captivate kids of all ages. An instant holiday classic you'll want to read again and again.
The author spins a magical tale full of fun, and suspense to explain how Kris Kringle and the elves got to the North Pole. This truly believable tale of love and charity fits right in with the Christmas Season and will fill your holiday with the spirit of good will.
Thanks Diane for sharing your magical creativity with us in this never-to-be-forgotten story. Reading it will make your season of love and joy a time to remember. I give this book a five-star rating.

Tuesday, November 6, 2012


Worry
Sometimes I sit alone, worrying about my life. Maybe I’m not the best I can be. Am I reaching my potential? I push the thoughts away and go on with my busy schedule. I arrange a bouquet of flowers from the garden for a sick friend, make a potato casserole for a funeral, volunteer at the school, or weed the garden. But all the time I’m thinking that I can’t succeed and I’m not making a difference anywhere.

During these times, I pray and ask for help. I sit in the sunny garden and reflect on carefree days—like picking wild flowers as a child.

Monday, November 5, 2012


Epic Tales of a Misfit Hero
            Epic Tales of a Misfit Hero by Matt Peterson is a fun read for kids. From passing the sacrament with his fly down to failing miserable at capture the flag, Andrew knows he’ll never be able to fulfill his duties as a deacon. But when tragedy strikes on his Boy Scout camping trip, Andrew’s whole troop must become stronger than they ever imagined. This hilarious coming-of-age story is bound to have you rooting for a misfit hero!
            Matt Peterson has hit a home run with this fun adventure. It’s sure to please the entire family—most especially those boys who are about to become deacons. The story rings true right town to the spilled cheerios on the carpet during Sacrament meeting.
            Andrew must reach down deep inside himself, with the help of angels, and find his inner strength. He comes through like a true hero. This is a great five-star read! Enjoy!