April 12, 2026 By Maria Have you read a book and thought that’s so funny because it’s true, and then paused as you realized, oh it is true. . .I had that experience when I read the Ramona Quimby books by Beverly Cleary. Today, April 12th, is D.E.A.R. Day and the anniversary of Beverly Cleary’sContinue reading “Just Read!”
Tag Archives: book-review
Forest Warmth
March 16, 2026 By Maria Of the many ways I keep warm in the cold, sweaters and hot tea are my favorites. The next favorite isn’t exactly logical, but it is delightful: cozy books. Books that make me feel warm inside like a comforting hug, fill this category. One of my favorite cozy picture booksContinue reading “Forest Warmth”
Happy Birthday, Miss Austen
March 14, 2026 By Maria Last Sunday a friend texted me a happy international women’s day message. That made me think, this is the perfect week to post this Jane Austen piece I have been working on. In typical fashion of this blog, my Jane Austen post is late, later than I planned at least.Continue reading “Happy Birthday, Miss Austen”
Mystery is Afoot
October 23, 2025 By Maria In autumn, my favorite kind of books to read are mysteries (a genre I actually enjoy any season, but especially in the fall). Years ago, a friend gave my kids a Sherlock Holmes style dress-up hat she had made for her children when they were small. I loved watching myContinue reading “Mystery is Afoot”
There are Octobers
October 16, 2025 By Maria “I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers.” – Anne Shirley Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery On October 1st, I painted a tiny fall scene. The photo I used for inspiration was taken last year on an autumn road trip to my grandparents’ familyContinue reading “There are Octobers”
Sand between our Toes
August 29, 2025 By Maria I can’t get through the summer without completing at least one beach themed blog post. We only managed to fit a couple of beach days in this year, but they were all delightful. One was a bit chilly, but the kids still had a blast and enjoyed the water whileContinue reading “Sand between our Toes”
Fairies, Monsters, and Summer Magic
August 25, 2025 By Maria While stores and social media are preparing for Halloween and back to school, I am intent on enjoying what’s left of the summer with my family. Especially the time we have left before school starts again. Don’t get me wrong, I love autumn. It is probably my favorite season betweenContinue reading “Fairies, Monsters, and Summer Magic”