tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9129904162318555732024-03-15T05:00:31.737-07:00Writ of WhimsyVictoria Lindstrom ~ Author, Wordsmith, & PoetVictoria Lindstromhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694066132860951997noreply@blogger.comBlogger1602125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-912990416231855573.post-55373540972834694042024-03-15T05:00:00.000-07:002024-03-15T05:00:00.283-07:00Storyteller's Journey<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYJjJQBTQQ9ggxAkiJC2LjxElDGLvzr9p2AD2YsZTSG5GHCo9oU53UHjyzVi-SRM9fOv8_Si3h9gESzLtwrTACkLxFRubpSQ8rDGn51lnY7AkPPr9SQhNqSFuFZHWi1Wn4ODLYIT2s_ye4dYA5lRuSTZecA7VNcW9HABJE6caGZyRLmdOBWc_WxBakcd4/s4032/IMG_7758%20(1).jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYJjJQBTQQ9ggxAkiJC2LjxElDGLvzr9p2AD2YsZTSG5GHCo9oU53UHjyzVi-SRM9fOv8_Si3h9gESzLtwrTACkLxFRubpSQ8rDGn51lnY7AkPPr9SQhNqSFuFZHWi1Wn4ODLYIT2s_ye4dYA5lRuSTZecA7VNcW9HABJE6caGZyRLmdOBWc_WxBakcd4/s320/IMG_7758%20(1).jpg" width="320" /></a></div><b><i>Spring Break!</i></b><p></p><p>I'll be taking a break to hopefully enjoy the spring sunshine. Gardening, hiking, and reconnecting with my friends are at the top of my list. (We also still need to work on finishing the landscaping around our house.)</p><p>Click <b><a href="https://preview.mailerlite.io/preview/768019/emails/110103295883741163">here </a></b>to read my recent quarterly newsletter.</p><p><span style="color: #38761d;">Wishing each of you a sensational spring season!</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH4yh2euqixI_eaqVugGc2SeWro_LbYRSbV-87bAe4i9MenIgKecVPcVMpQxrA7QGf0jwxUam_cXRvUFUaTjHvIwF61B81ZnewQxS1yvQ64qQcHx26a7BDJwiKOlMljJ_Kl1fXikD-vhqI7Tj3ruLGXRvukj9iUc_sg3AOqv6bhFRK8WMntdmyGMi60Ws/s4032/IMG_6906.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH4yh2euqixI_eaqVugGc2SeWro_LbYRSbV-87bAe4i9MenIgKecVPcVMpQxrA7QGf0jwxUam_cXRvUFUaTjHvIwF61B81ZnewQxS1yvQ64qQcHx26a7BDJwiKOlMljJ_Kl1fXikD-vhqI7Tj3ruLGXRvukj9iUc_sg3AOqv6bhFRK8WMntdmyGMi60Ws/w400-h300/IMG_6906.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span><p></p>Victoria Lindstromhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694066132860951997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-912990416231855573.post-10361535415557279602024-03-08T05:00:00.000-08:002024-03-08T05:00:00.139-08:00Storyteller's Journey<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ2omLyixb0ENpM28BbIL2RXRH98Iv1IzXNnAAv3dSIhyBah-xDImzsb0zl-9itVPdD3Uie3ndKYLlLNLL5nGP5m1lHxrJImDWhaVICFj__LV9F0YxjjNQl-oxmLxXumXajnfmPaWvAQEL1-kBPsEOOBMU8mGIlziQFFqBIeE0dWGgS_-Kwrci5hj14uU/s2048/IMG_7785.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ2omLyixb0ENpM28BbIL2RXRH98Iv1IzXNnAAv3dSIhyBah-xDImzsb0zl-9itVPdD3Uie3ndKYLlLNLL5nGP5m1lHxrJImDWhaVICFj__LV9F0YxjjNQl-oxmLxXumXajnfmPaWvAQEL1-kBPsEOOBMU8mGIlziQFFqBIeE0dWGgS_-Kwrci5hj14uU/s320/IMG_7785.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><b><i>Hurry up, Spring!</i></b><p></p><p>While the calendar indicates that spring is just around the corner, the weather in the Pacific Northwest hasn't received the memo! (It snowed here several days the first week of this month.)</p><p>While I love the season of winter, I'm definitely ready for a change in the climate. Getting out in nature is one of the primary ways I receive inspiration. However, I admit that I'm a fair-weather hiker, so heavy rain will always keep me inside. Until we see drier weather, I guess it's more writing & reading...and Pilates, for me! <span style="font-size: x-small;">(Photo from our common area.)</span></p>Victoria Lindstromhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694066132860951997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-912990416231855573.post-25692792839717311752024-03-01T05:00:00.000-08:002024-03-01T05:00:00.253-08:00Storyteller's Journey<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpSHb7En10Uv9jCzZV2xAC7mN8skP2thpnKvcIPRN15VaqjQbjXU5nA3CvcEkACEUGufLqG5X5PbNDV_wCUoSosArFp6eXoaJR1_zB0ACOGlAq2kRZsGMZu9OI_Y858jemVe-sXYjUMpU6uQwHyNnFI-OTOL13yBEN26wNprwbDkpS4-6DBFmqoEdwpWg/s799/IMG_7778.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="744" data-original-width="799" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpSHb7En10Uv9jCzZV2xAC7mN8skP2thpnKvcIPRN15VaqjQbjXU5nA3CvcEkACEUGufLqG5X5PbNDV_wCUoSosArFp6eXoaJR1_zB0ACOGlAq2kRZsGMZu9OI_Y858jemVe-sXYjUMpU6uQwHyNnFI-OTOL13yBEN26wNprwbDkpS4-6DBFmqoEdwpWg/s320/IMG_7778.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><i><span style="color: #0b5394;">Missing My Friends</span></i><p></p><p>During my battle with cancer, one of the things I missed the most was seeing my friends. It wasn't that I couldn't see them, but my symptoms of weakness, fatigue, nausea, etc. made it difficult to spend quality time with my friends.</p><p>During the last year, I've always felt their love and support, even though I wasn't able to physically be with them. However, every day I grow stronger, and feel better. I'm looking forward to reconnecting with my friends very soon. Many of my friends are also writers - or at least lovers of literature. I've missed conversations about the writing and reading journey we're each travelling. Friends are what life is all about! </p>Victoria Lindstromhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694066132860951997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-912990416231855573.post-73401044201672720242024-02-23T05:00:00.000-08:002024-02-23T05:00:00.145-08:00Storyteller's Journey<p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEVwkdu9WKEffq99683f2sVLkVyRunFKAmDxlJXxTnksVuHqNASGkP2c7yNhCMjUrLuPEur5ogtZixKzk3kJ7sD31L9aS7GKxMdqYsJ5F5CCYsweT2AYC76IbVsB-B3oLmPYcwhvk_CX_F0Yf2TwKiTWQ6zhf5UszrHokS-0EOYzVnsUr1sP1w-Gzoz4M/s3088/Facetune_22-02-2024-13-41-06.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2316" data-original-width="3088" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEVwkdu9WKEffq99683f2sVLkVyRunFKAmDxlJXxTnksVuHqNASGkP2c7yNhCMjUrLuPEur5ogtZixKzk3kJ7sD31L9aS7GKxMdqYsJ5F5CCYsweT2AYC76IbVsB-B3oLmPYcwhvk_CX_F0Yf2TwKiTWQ6zhf5UszrHokS-0EOYzVnsUr1sP1w-Gzoz4M/s320/Facetune_22-02-2024-13-41-06.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In my little library.</td></tr></tbody></table> <b><i>Persevering</i></b><p></p><p>It's been a year since I first experienced symptoms of cancer; it's been a long, difficult process. Through all the chemotherapy, CAT scans and other tests, writing seemed to get pushed to the back of my mind.</p><p>However, since the holidays, I've managed to work on two projects:</p><p>1- The second book in my <i>Livvi Biddle Time Travel Tales</i> is outlined, and the first three chapters have been penned. I had hoped to complete more of that manuscript, but it is what it is.</p><p>2- During the January snowstorm we experienced, another <i>Lindstrom Wintertime Tale </i>dropped into my mind. I'm thrilled that another book in out series of illustrated short stories is in the works.</p><p>Getting back to my normal writing routine and daily wordcount is proving to be a work in progress. I'm still weak and tired most days but getting stronger a little bit at a time. Wish me luck persevering!<br /></p>Victoria Lindstromhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694066132860951997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-912990416231855573.post-73057425474004302672024-02-16T05:00:00.000-08:002024-02-16T05:00:00.280-08:00Storyteller's Journey<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkL7lRaEKv7yzFYdgZkECo8wI1fAKVn5jyqQhQ0NpbU3w0cw_aXLXQ3m8p_HioJ4N0PhNeDjZSAJXva11PPLY0Y1meSljR-gvpQjbn6oJImHCOdFVxC12ek2QYAcjnX9p0LW6GAl1dHblvcckG7KyCLTgQ1CA911Xvmq-Y4L4IfCQhpN8bAK27GTliIqY/s4032/Facetune_30-01-2024-15-01-28.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkL7lRaEKv7yzFYdgZkECo8wI1fAKVn5jyqQhQ0NpbU3w0cw_aXLXQ3m8p_HioJ4N0PhNeDjZSAJXva11PPLY0Y1meSljR-gvpQjbn6oJImHCOdFVxC12ek2QYAcjnX9p0LW6GAl1dHblvcckG7KyCLTgQ1CA911Xvmq-Y4L4IfCQhpN8bAK27GTliIqY/s320/Facetune_30-01-2024-15-01-28.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><b><i>Surviving Cancer</i></b><p></p><p>Recently, I completed my final chemotherapy infusion, followed by a couple of weeks of chemo pills. Unfortunately, I ended up getting severely dehydrated and was hospitalized due to the severe side effects of the treatment. Thankfully, I'm on the mend, though very weak. I'm so grateful for all the kind messages, cards, and even flowers from so many of my dear friends and family. You have no idea what they meant in the midst of my health storm.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH8kI-t4foWbMqOTE7vaaMZqxdtg18OZZBet0uCnlCdn_bkLTQTygRwT1YWQOen3v8oFE-qjr87F-TZnmmXcZRo7UmV07TBwci9Sd7Lb2nsj78sEFdyEeIlkJ6v6pmAcruTMZOrtJ9CrnZCffbNOnD0rEc6zA0bpGuOXIA0aT7O1j4zW5Or99sd_K525Q/s4032/IMG_7740.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH8kI-t4foWbMqOTE7vaaMZqxdtg18OZZBet0uCnlCdn_bkLTQTygRwT1YWQOen3v8oFE-qjr87F-TZnmmXcZRo7UmV07TBwci9Sd7Lb2nsj78sEFdyEeIlkJ6v6pmAcruTMZOrtJ9CrnZCffbNOnD0rEc6zA0bpGuOXIA0aT7O1j4zW5Or99sd_K525Q/s320/IMG_7740.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>While I'm thankful to have completed my chemotherapy, I won't know for months if every cell of cancer was clobbered. Still, I'm going forward with my life believing that I'm cancer-free.<div><br /></div><div>Next week I'll give you an update on my writing over this challenging time. Believe it or not, I was actually able to work on a project.</div>Victoria Lindstromhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694066132860951997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-912990416231855573.post-64837957601837121012023-12-15T05:00:00.000-08:002023-12-15T05:00:00.221-08:00Storyteller's Journey<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlQTdJASIdinFMgqANG_K_EkPu85jLQSLIL5QNFXbWzSG88vANeNZvJNCB2scTXaDfE-gV8fEG81c9T1yPofcMGStksjT39_FBGYATzSZAWM9Qd_6vGfXACNR-BzeDky4TR4a9FsZDfFsyaKkytHcvz_n1sa7U05tPxz6lqQQKdtf1yppVaB7daRCigis/s3849/FullSizeRender%20(1).jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2854" data-original-width="3849" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlQTdJASIdinFMgqANG_K_EkPu85jLQSLIL5QNFXbWzSG88vANeNZvJNCB2scTXaDfE-gV8fEG81c9T1yPofcMGStksjT39_FBGYATzSZAWM9Qd_6vGfXACNR-BzeDky4TR4a9FsZDfFsyaKkytHcvz_n1sa7U05tPxz6lqQQKdtf1yppVaB7daRCigis/s320/FullSizeRender%20(1).jpg" width="320" /></a></div><i><span style="color: #38761d;">Season's Greetings!</span></i><p></p><p>While 2023 has been challenging to say the least, December has brought with it a basketful of blessings. My sons, Kevin (Arizona) and Brian (New Jersey) will both be here in a few days. </p><p>That is the best Christmas gift I could ask for. (My eldest son, David, will be here too, but he lives nearby.) I'm in between cycles of chemotherapy, so I'm feeling great - just in time for my birthday this Sunday. And lastly, there is no snow in the forecast (like last year!) to spoil our holiday plans.</p><p>I'll be back on <i>Writ of Whimsy</i> in early 2024. My chemo-therapy is due to be complete in mid-February so I'll be sure to check in!</p><p>Click <a href="https://preview.mailerlite.com/f1p1v2o2u0">here</a> to read my recent quarterly newsletter.</p><p><b><i><span style="color: #38761d;">Wishing you and yours the love, joy, and peace of the season!</span></i></b> </p>Victoria Lindstromhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694066132860951997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-912990416231855573.post-62519342381451529582023-12-08T05:00:00.000-08:002023-12-08T05:00:00.145-08:00Storyteller's Journey<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3sCGMh7Pwke07JjeFwqvzdjfL-pJSyJAv3jXVNgqaiYFlMWLPIoFkkDD1MKwzFv9M8kafDvu3co-ZkGAu7kLt25a7vZNik8IQHv0-dw_gU5jZV9lbKCUKldwdVbt5fOcPtLR_-wQ6b2ylP4ZvSrxbvmOVShM-Zm3zzCHBFLC8yptcn8fflk2Ry9T3ceg/s400/IMG_7648.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="261" data-original-width="400" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3sCGMh7Pwke07JjeFwqvzdjfL-pJSyJAv3jXVNgqaiYFlMWLPIoFkkDD1MKwzFv9M8kafDvu3co-ZkGAu7kLt25a7vZNik8IQHv0-dw_gU5jZV9lbKCUKldwdVbt5fOcPtLR_-wQ6b2ylP4ZvSrxbvmOVShM-Zm3zzCHBFLC8yptcn8fflk2Ry9T3ceg/s320/IMG_7648.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><b><i>Peace on Earth</i></b></span><p></p><p>With all the conflict and chaos in our world right now, the idea of "peace on earth" can seem like an impossibility. Is there anything each of us can do to promote peace?</p><p>As a writer of books for middle grade readers, the idea of peace within my stories is always forefront on my mind. However, a story without conflict is not a story worth reading. It takes real creativity to include peace as an option to those conflicts within my novels.</p><p>It's not unlike the real world: it sometimes takes real creativity and imagination to find a peaceful path forward in diplomatic negotiations. </p><p>Strangers, friends, and even loved ones, can sometimes present challenges to a peaceful existence in each of our lives. At this time of year, we must all give our best effort to promote peace, even while there is so much lack of peace in the world. We can each make a difference by being kind and understanding this holiday season.<br /></p>Victoria Lindstromhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694066132860951997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-912990416231855573.post-23455496820317704452023-12-01T05:00:00.000-08:002023-12-01T05:00:00.149-08:00Storyteller's Journey<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX1jaSbk-LIZj7nU_Zp9Uftt5AgdMxQeEfIoi1zeeeC1fp58B-Ro5BRXN25ntyWxUeprY9v2ZOsGw7yaH5UI2QvA5AyYB3SGlnH5cnTJ7_61j39AQvtSDrWx-W-eUuu5R3TBQSm1_YBz07ZRjvtXr-UXkFBkp0IUQ6UZDVVaH-bQsN-w26SUV9j7vL09w/s1341/IMG_7644.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><b><img border="0" data-original-height="1299" data-original-width="1341" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX1jaSbk-LIZj7nU_Zp9Uftt5AgdMxQeEfIoi1zeeeC1fp58B-Ro5BRXN25ntyWxUeprY9v2ZOsGw7yaH5UI2QvA5AyYB3SGlnH5cnTJ7_61j39AQvtSDrWx-W-eUuu5R3TBQSm1_YBz07ZRjvtXr-UXkFBkp0IUQ6UZDVVaH-bQsN-w26SUV9j7vL09w/w200-h194/IMG_7644.jpg" width="200" /></b></a></div><b><i>My Writer's Update!</i></b><p></p><p>Since learning of my cancer diagnosis, my writing has nearly disappeared, but thankfully, not completely. I have two completed unpublished manuscripts that need to be edited - both by me, and my editor. So, I'm just beginning to revise/edit my middle grade novel entitled: THE RABBIT OF ROUEN. </p><p>It's set first in Normandy, France, and then proceeds to Paris during World War II, specifically in 1944. Since the story includes the Liberation of Paris, and 2024 marks the 80th anniversary of that event, I'm hoping to release it next year. But that will be a tall order!</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN3zSwXnqLSvmFeY0Zuus12JzN43ek3YSRzlQ4PhDc41es-rK5Lpyu2fjWAlMIV5bNI3vny6KUf0LwISX9NRdszQKItMfTNOQ0XlcMMVu8GOYge8Dh_k7a-EQg-68ExUO1d26-GI-Gyho607G4sOBfnYrIp8U2uRxCjO_kXZYCyEMV9O43e0oS1EShmWo/s3024/IMG_7177.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2570" data-original-width="3024" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN3zSwXnqLSvmFeY0Zuus12JzN43ek3YSRzlQ4PhDc41es-rK5Lpyu2fjWAlMIV5bNI3vny6KUf0LwISX9NRdszQKItMfTNOQ0XlcMMVu8GOYge8Dh_k7a-EQg-68ExUO1d26-GI-Gyho607G4sOBfnYrIp8U2uRxCjO_kXZYCyEMV9O43e0oS1EShmWo/s320/IMG_7177.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wish me luck with my goal; I just began chemotherapy.</td></tr></tbody></table>Victoria Lindstromhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694066132860951997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-912990416231855573.post-31925392696201288762023-11-24T05:00:00.000-08:002023-11-24T05:00:00.135-08:00Storyteller's Journey<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5537GSaZIQALF2FqE-9vovB9pb4fzvFeZJZStXYOqZk3gfsSx_0hQJxL82bb5nX_E4PvJi5jjmfm143L4BmBeqtBmq5Upn1X5bNGzWAbjb6v5sRZRvxFPbKs8LCfE6t-jHCN9mOPH7oyP8JnyPgI6n-TKc_43Flcx-TSaRPkIzHhn2x3OIAUX7zTi26o/s1920/IMG_7612.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1261" data-original-width="1920" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5537GSaZIQALF2FqE-9vovB9pb4fzvFeZJZStXYOqZk3gfsSx_0hQJxL82bb5nX_E4PvJi5jjmfm143L4BmBeqtBmq5Upn1X5bNGzWAbjb6v5sRZRvxFPbKs8LCfE6t-jHCN9mOPH7oyP8JnyPgI6n-TKc_43Flcx-TSaRPkIzHhn2x3OIAUX7zTi26o/s320/IMG_7612.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><b><i>Why I'm Grateful</i></b><br /> <p></p><p>At this time of year most people reflect on what they're grateful for; family, friends and faith are common topics. </p><p><br /></p><p>And while I, too, am grateful for those things, since receiving a diagnosis of cancer last summer, I now view gratitude a bit differently.</p><p>Like many cancer patients, when I first heard my diagnosis, I was stunned, afraid, and even angry. However, it didn't take me long to learn the importance of a positive attitude. That wasn't always easy. The way I improved my ability to maintain positivity was to focus on those things I could still be grateful for. Some days it wasn't easy. But I began to thank God when I woke up alive. And when I was strong enough to walk outside. Then, too, my family, friends, and faith were always things I remembered to mention.</p><p>It was a choice. We've all heard the old adage, "to be happy is to make the choice to be happy." I believe the same can be said for being grateful. After working on this new habit for several weeks, I realized it wasn't just an exercise anymore; I could actually feel the gratitude in my heart. I began to find it easier to deal with my diagnosis, and to accept the treatment plan recommended for me by my oncologist of two surgeries and four cycles of chemotherapy. Even more surprising is that I'm even grateful for it; it just might save my life.</p><p>Now I'm grateful for many things that on the surface might look like a negative. So many of these challenges are really beautiful lessons about life in disguise. </p><p>Am I grateful for having cancer? I'm still working on it.</p><p>Hope you have a lovely Thanksgiving Weekend!</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW0mokooGJzUcr_Xw89gtiM7_350AOQ7ABsUVKBeGXVeTk1v7FvLnSLnDtRZSs_jcFHF4BWxC8iJSacRCQF5cLRbqlzPh0_WRcmfBLLv_QFnZ3fqCQdn3i415NVGZKsBZljytoYNArguYGBvhxjcapjGF_Emo8FugkMKOuVfvSGDnaowcfCeKyEz6bBac/s4032/Facetune_19-11-2023-13-17-21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW0mokooGJzUcr_Xw89gtiM7_350AOQ7ABsUVKBeGXVeTk1v7FvLnSLnDtRZSs_jcFHF4BWxC8iJSacRCQF5cLRbqlzPh0_WRcmfBLLv_QFnZ3fqCQdn3i415NVGZKsBZljytoYNArguYGBvhxjcapjGF_Emo8FugkMKOuVfvSGDnaowcfCeKyEz6bBac/s320/Facetune_19-11-2023-13-17-21.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After two surgeries; prior to chemotherapy</td></tr></tbody></table>Victoria Lindstromhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694066132860951997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-912990416231855573.post-12392177861997144062023-09-18T05:00:00.050-07:002023-09-18T05:00:00.248-07:00Bibliophile's Corner<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj49xTt4j_sBMSWw02SESSqaPIPrjDc7cjuMQRL37xXQ_N0BK09z1Y2_T-1kosItGG4fNpEIzyTRYzmKQw6uGSAkHZTpTbXQuMN2fbDyfvYzrI2GDVa-x5JKkHYwHy-ky9GzJx7WV1bKj-ZAudEkCdPQHmloNRuLm8rE_gtEmHsX8WfoEf3pYKzGtCKD9c/s400/60316933.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="329" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj49xTt4j_sBMSWw02SESSqaPIPrjDc7cjuMQRL37xXQ_N0BK09z1Y2_T-1kosItGG4fNpEIzyTRYzmKQw6uGSAkHZTpTbXQuMN2fbDyfvYzrI2GDVa-x5JKkHYwHy-ky9GzJx7WV1bKj-ZAudEkCdPQHmloNRuLm8rE_gtEmHsX8WfoEf3pYKzGtCKD9c/s320/60316933.jpg" width="263" /></a></div><b><i>Evergreen</i></b><div>by Matthew Cordell</div><div><br /></div><div>Flap Copy Description:</div><div>Evergreen the squirrel is afraid of many things: thunder, hawks, and the dark paths of Buckthorn Forest. But when her mother tasks Evergreen with delivering soup to her sick Granny Oak, the little squirrel must face her fears and make the journey.</div><div>Along the way, Evergreen meets other forest dwellers - some want to help her, but some want her mother's delicious soup! </div><div><br /></div><div>My Thoughts:</div><div><i>Evergreen</i> is Caldecott Medalist Matthew Cordell's most recent picture book - I love it! The whimsical illustrations perfectly bring the heartwarming story to life, and the little protagonist is entertaining as she overcomes her fears! I highly recommend Evergreen for children aged three to seven.</div><div><br /></div><div>Click <b><a href="https://www.matthewcordell.com/about">here </a></b>to learn about the author-illustrator Matthew Cordell.</div>Victoria Lindstromhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694066132860951997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-912990416231855573.post-67588321655758790502023-09-15T05:00:00.049-07:002023-09-15T05:00:00.152-07:00Storyteller's Journey<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyATws6SuMJ9IEREOrMvAQFC0sxODSb_T2d8H3Kmez5Di5dyYFpIVcYtrUeEKlR9DYaJ7XTaAqZg6pe7u9Mq4M8v8-RcMdqI7GK57DUmeigG8Ak6tKjPXcizROd5KTaSVtX9Ujl6Pmy2xc6elM79GoP6Gekmvg7oDtiwPy9Q2wo9Y2FfruvZYTP6ylpXQ/s4032/IMG_4488.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyATws6SuMJ9IEREOrMvAQFC0sxODSb_T2d8H3Kmez5Di5dyYFpIVcYtrUeEKlR9DYaJ7XTaAqZg6pe7u9Mq4M8v8-RcMdqI7GK57DUmeigG8Ak6tKjPXcizROd5KTaSVtX9Ujl6Pmy2xc6elM79GoP6Gekmvg7oDtiwPy9Q2wo9Y2FfruvZYTP6ylpXQ/s320/IMG_4488.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i>Autumn's Arrival</i></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">As much as I enjoy the sunny days of summer, autumn is my favorite season. One of the things I love about fall is that I almost always begin a new project each September.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">This year I plan to continue working on Book 2 in <i>The Time Travel Tales of Livvi Biddle. </i>It's too early to share a synopsis but stay tuned!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Click <a href="https://preview.mailerlite.com/d1u6r6z0e0"><b>here</b> </a>to read my recently released newsletter.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Wishing each of you an outstanding autumn!</div><p></p>Victoria Lindstromhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694066132860951997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-912990416231855573.post-27726499908083580632023-09-13T05:00:00.022-07:002023-09-13T05:00:00.148-07:00Whimsical Word of the Week<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBX5K04KNwGFOvTwOLsIpkhWe9U5K_S7KzetES6d5K0RyUag1Um-A3DbIpT5UYqNXaBadJ-pxma-gS6l9tjANGccz1Ly2NDj2pnGRQIFdJQWfwTAW4CMOyLX-FtM2NyYSjwbKuMp-jHtgvQsCRvUMEBkfH6qlk2V2FxGwR8UgmDQ9_jPm0iKT8FZckgDg/s1595/Illuminated-Letters-Full-Alphabet%20(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="905" data-original-width="1595" height="114" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBX5K04KNwGFOvTwOLsIpkhWe9U5K_S7KzetES6d5K0RyUag1Um-A3DbIpT5UYqNXaBadJ-pxma-gS6l9tjANGccz1Ly2NDj2pnGRQIFdJQWfwTAW4CMOyLX-FtM2NyYSjwbKuMp-jHtgvQsCRvUMEBkfH6qlk2V2FxGwR8UgmDQ9_jPm0iKT8FZckgDg/w200-h114/Illuminated-Letters-Full-Alphabet%20(1).jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Coterie </b>- (n.)</div><div style="text-align: left;">a small group of people with shared interests or tastes.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Example: The coterie of writers and artists met weekly at a local cafe.</span></div> <p></p>Victoria Lindstromhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694066132860951997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-912990416231855573.post-42375081537492721312023-09-11T05:00:00.072-07:002023-09-11T05:00:00.152-07:00Bibliophile's Corner<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkyYj4cT0SxBqBqLJ8nKkQk9kTfuZMsmFZIWKjuex5xtD6qVenWTURHbP1FxCC6FYPk2S1NVq10zQg15G0-6-J3smAVa59IH40IYHe214Iibuz2YW_BRPjHbfvN-_LexMHHCbgesFi3UyyYzCr2yM_mki2qReFyx4fSNXIQ3-Azo0dAhmM3W8RuDENqOQ/s906/59806092.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="906" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkyYj4cT0SxBqBqLJ8nKkQk9kTfuZMsmFZIWKjuex5xtD6qVenWTURHbP1FxCC6FYPk2S1NVq10zQg15G0-6-J3smAVa59IH40IYHe214Iibuz2YW_BRPjHbfvN-_LexMHHCbgesFi3UyyYzCr2yM_mki2qReFyx4fSNXIQ3-Azo0dAhmM3W8RuDENqOQ/s320/59806092.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i>Wildoak <br /></i></b>by C.C.Harrington</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Flap Copy Description:</div><div style="text-align: left;">A Snow Leopard.</div><div style="text-align: left;">A Child.</div><div style="text-align: left;">An Ancient Forest</div><div style="text-align: left;">When fates collide, the unimaginable can happen...</div><div style="text-align: left;">Maggie Stephens's stutter makes school especially hard. She will do almost anything to avoid speaking in class or calling attention to herself. So when her unsympathetic father threatens to send her away for so-called "treatment," she reluctantly agrees to her mother's intervention plan: a few weeks in the fresh air of Wildoak Forest, visiting a grandfather she hardly knows. It is there, in an extraordinary twist of fate, that she encounters a abandoned snow leopard cub, an exotic gift to a wealthy Londoner that proved too wild to domesticate. But once the cub's presence is discovered by others, danger follows, and Maggie soon realizes that time is running out, not only for the leopard, but for herself and the forest as well.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">My Thoughts:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><i>Wildoak </i>is a wonderful new middle grade novel with a protagonist you'll want to embrace. While Maggie's stutter has made it difficult to make friends, she has a gift for befriending animals. As her adventure unfolds, she not only learns to speak up for herself, but she also has an impact on the whole community around her. I highly recommend <i>Wildoak</i> to readers aged eight to twelve!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Click <b><a href="https://www.christinaharrington.com/contact">here </a></b>to learn about the author C.C. Harrington.</div><p></p>Victoria Lindstromhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694066132860951997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-912990416231855573.post-47832556718343498482023-09-08T05:00:00.178-07:002023-09-08T05:00:00.166-07:00Storyteller's Journey<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeIPz1XMA6rnxKGOkFCmCK2_wWlVkDXYM_d4ep8FT3sojbwFvDeO1uqT_ITg7bjg2kni38F57mtcPpuc7tvjRIEY0D1yts-LZ-yFC4N06lfUvZNRpxwWc92QE8CqmxEBin2xm3N3uuxd95_tg_yW9trmNAX3WWrRfaLO38nLlbXvnBafjpUVCZpEzZGC4/s640/IMG_7326.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="564" data-original-width="640" height="176" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeIPz1XMA6rnxKGOkFCmCK2_wWlVkDXYM_d4ep8FT3sojbwFvDeO1uqT_ITg7bjg2kni38F57mtcPpuc7tvjRIEY0D1yts-LZ-yFC4N06lfUvZNRpxwWc92QE8CqmxEBin2xm3N3uuxd95_tg_yW9trmNAX3WWrRfaLO38nLlbXvnBafjpUVCZpEzZGC4/w200-h176/IMG_7326.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>The Summer of '23</i></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">When you live in the Pacific Northwest with his long dark winters, making summer plans is something you look forward to. I know I certainly do!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">My main goal for the summer of 2023 was to complete and publish my middle grade novel, <i><b>The Sibylline Scroll</b></i> - book one in <i>The Time Travel Tales of Livvi Biddle. </i>That being said, spending time in the sunshine was a close second! My husband Michael and I planned to continue landscaping our property (which we purchased in 2021), visit some of our favorite local sites, and spend time with family. All of our plans were met, including my new novel being released next Tuesday!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">However, something that wasn't on my summer list was an unexpected health challenge that began in late July and is still ongoing. I won't go into the details, but I have been diagnosed with cancer. Needless to say, this has been a significant challenge to the way I had hoped my summer would unfold. I have a difficult road ahead. Due to the cancer diagnosis, and my severe weakness, the book launch events I had scheduled have been postponed or cancelled. Wish me luck!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I learned years ago that writing and reading keep me on a positive path; I'm reminded of that in a big way right now. I'm so excited for the release of my new novel - <i><b>The Sibylline Scroll </b></i>- next Tuesday, 9/12! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIsRw0RISRD4ZTC0jfWzYwY-VcaxJjLBeIbSikFBMRy6I7OfmQoxoosa8TuCGeG12TAuYZ8Fst_XiJSJWIAJA_kysGXDTplNr38XyLxbNjheeyLJ_zHHyr2KUIe2KUjkr6Ilub3sMqaWRvldKLk3-Pk0chfvPwQ_g0n74yQU94px1Zb0ruGK3QwriO2S0/s681/IMG_6842.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="681" data-original-width="464" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIsRw0RISRD4ZTC0jfWzYwY-VcaxJjLBeIbSikFBMRy6I7OfmQoxoosa8TuCGeG12TAuYZ8Fst_XiJSJWIAJA_kysGXDTplNr38XyLxbNjheeyLJ_zHHyr2KUIe2KUjkr6Ilub3sMqaWRvldKLk3-Pk0chfvPwQ_g0n74yQU94px1Zb0ruGK3QwriO2S0/s320/IMG_6842.jpg" width="218" /></a></div><p></p>Victoria Lindstromhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694066132860951997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-912990416231855573.post-33408681387260381702023-06-16T05:00:00.008-07:002023-06-16T05:00:00.138-07:00Storyteller's Journey<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDhKoiwhzvAG_8Q-UFIbviVbWwwvfhj0L9H_1HmZQN-Tp_oRq0T3FwDBSWPtSZgFA4n3fUFRiDAA0WvTBKsGBrqNAs9EsK1eLt7uwlSuqbQmCpllELKoEgHfffpGFrrUKF8JlRta16jQXZ8_9_0dJjCAhZg3BdKz-Dub8Sbrqi_PtG8k_ybo7VysyY/s908/IMG_6942.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="681" data-original-width="908" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDhKoiwhzvAG_8Q-UFIbviVbWwwvfhj0L9H_1HmZQN-Tp_oRq0T3FwDBSWPtSZgFA4n3fUFRiDAA0WvTBKsGBrqNAs9EsK1eLt7uwlSuqbQmCpllELKoEgHfffpGFrrUKF8JlRta16jQXZ8_9_0dJjCAhZg3BdKz-Dub8Sbrqi_PtG8k_ybo7VysyY/s320/IMG_6942.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><b>It's Time for Summer Vacation!</b></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: left;">Even though my middle grade novel, <b><span style="color: #990000;">The Sibylline Scroll, </span></b>will release in September, I'll be taking my usual summer break from <i>Writ of Whimsy. </i><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Columbia River Gorge.)</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">That being said, I'll be busy planning the book's launch, giveaways, and of course, a bit of networking. Then, too, I'm hoping to make some headway with our home's landscaping; we still need to complete that.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Click <a href="http://writofwhimsy.blogspot.com/2023/05/storytellers-journey_01680627551.html"><b>here</b> </a>for my summer reading list for kids! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Click <b><a href="https://preview.mailerlite.com/k8a6w5i7c0">here </a></b>to read my recent quarterly newsletter! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Be sure to <b><a href="https://victorialindstrom.com/contact.php">subscribe</a></b> to my newsletter; that's where you'll find the latest news on my book release - plus news on fun launch events!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyxQKZPyZw1qNVwuLIVlbtjDVV8FyM7guzLi3rJFeAnR9H5_R6tncniIuY0fUYDsBl6hVqoYR3aMw8f57m8uZJlxKM3xOUqqyNV3bSyxuaYCjZEn84u54XG8GcQNjX05LpL5cBmx18-zDSkRbsjoXtOrz-N0s6WJPh2_aPb_4cr4sGnEMfaZ_cAcy-/s681/IMG_6842.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="681" data-original-width="464" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyxQKZPyZw1qNVwuLIVlbtjDVV8FyM7guzLi3rJFeAnR9H5_R6tncniIuY0fUYDsBl6hVqoYR3aMw8f57m8uZJlxKM3xOUqqyNV3bSyxuaYCjZEn84u54XG8GcQNjX05LpL5cBmx18-zDSkRbsjoXtOrz-N0s6WJPh2_aPb_4cr4sGnEMfaZ_cAcy-/w273-h400/IMG_6842.jpg" width="273" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Wishing each of you a safe and sensational summer! </b></div><p></p>Victoria Lindstromhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694066132860951997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-912990416231855573.post-43187887285525422592023-06-14T05:00:00.017-07:002023-06-14T05:00:00.142-07:00Whimsical Word of the Week<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggIFvR0nq3OYFXufkcLZSL7LI-ZEisEAj0IhknoHwanprOcZnyJzqZQoHJtdn22Mh4xuLh4s8OYwKlcTzsJDobPcgqx_e5usLDQg13Ghg3K4U4FTFSTnYtLzn8BN4dFW36UKFahi6jE8vrx3Cqs1GIlMpr2fWSOhoYkXgF4KcJdaKtQjJXi5v_RtGe/s1595/Illuminated-Letters-Full-Alphabet%20(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="905" data-original-width="1595" height="114" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggIFvR0nq3OYFXufkcLZSL7LI-ZEisEAj0IhknoHwanprOcZnyJzqZQoHJtdn22Mh4xuLh4s8OYwKlcTzsJDobPcgqx_e5usLDQg13Ghg3K4U4FTFSTnYtLzn8BN4dFW36UKFahi6jE8vrx3Cqs1GIlMpr2fWSOhoYkXgF4KcJdaKtQjJXi5v_RtGe/w200-h114/Illuminated-Letters-Full-Alphabet%20(1).jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Querencia </b>- (n.)</div><div style="text-align: left;">a refuge; a sanctuary.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Example: The teenager's second-floor bedroom had become a quiet querencia from the family chaos below.</span></div><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><p></p>Victoria Lindstromhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694066132860951997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-912990416231855573.post-29863580841948045472023-06-12T05:00:00.080-07:002023-06-12T05:00:00.138-07:00Bibliophile's Corner<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMqbtE2Xzb6pz6UCkZ_O367wE9J50SWeDNFeOF3x5CFC8IeaLO6lmpoYGeFyrM4I8YVJ4k7tDPWKW_i-5oupWoXkILlVXqLc6vvg-1j6BgVSbD1FJJkY_VZNLbf-2xd8Rmi_6mc4h9JdkYDRsP87t2Z4scxY8zhHZKvxqcB1BccP___kC-TlBIEul2/s400/62874040.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="258" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMqbtE2Xzb6pz6UCkZ_O367wE9J50SWeDNFeOF3x5CFC8IeaLO6lmpoYGeFyrM4I8YVJ4k7tDPWKW_i-5oupWoXkILlVXqLc6vvg-1j6BgVSbD1FJJkY_VZNLbf-2xd8Rmi_6mc4h9JdkYDRsP87t2Z4scxY8zhHZKvxqcB1BccP___kC-TlBIEul2/s320/62874040.jpg" width="206" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i>My Friend Anne Frank</i></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">by Hannah Pick-Goslar</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Flap Copy Description:</div><div style="text-align: left;">In 1933, Hannah Pick-Goslar and her family fled Nazi Germany to live in Amsterdam, where she struck up a close friendship with her next-door neighbor, an outspoken and fun-loving young girl named Anne Frank. For several years, the inseparable pair enjoyed a carefree childhood of games, sleepovers, and treats with other children in their neighborhood of Rivierenbuurt. But in 1942, Hannah's and Anne's lives abruptly changed forever. As the Nazi occupation of Amsterdam progressed, Anne and the Frank family seemingly vanished, leaving behind unmade beds and dishes in the sink - but no trace of Anne's precious diary. Torn from her dear friend without warning, Hannah spent the next two years tormented by questions about Anne's fate, wondering if she had, by some miracle, managed to escape danger.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">My Thoughts:</div><div style="text-align: left;">This recently released memoir by Hannah Pick-Goslar is another intimate look into a Jewish family during the Nazi occupation of Amsterdam during World War II. The fact that the author was one of Anne Frank's friends when they were young children gives us another perspective into the life of Frank. The serendipitous thread that weaves its way through the lives of the two girls, to the very end of Anne's life, is extraordinary. I highly recommend <i>My Friend Anne Frank </i>to readers aged twelve and up.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Note: Today would have been the 94th birthday of Anne Frank.</div>Victoria Lindstromhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694066132860951997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-912990416231855573.post-24364192630360541472023-06-09T05:00:00.051-07:002023-06-09T05:00:00.142-07:00Storyteller's Journey<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWNPR9_9Qg-f2zK5NlL_DMooXr6sNs28AiS0IKtzgI2qKCtXWwYdNMg4Ju88dpuPoOTvfC7tOc2YEwDPvbG1axQeCoCEjZ2WiQahl0_FN9v0w-eESQsdQYBNdn58HPzHmqei6ly-PsiEpjP1DzA8qhB3zOlM81KhNsuGHBVHKCIt0MsRs_jQNO-cpW/s586/IMG_0238.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="586" data-original-width="576" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWNPR9_9Qg-f2zK5NlL_DMooXr6sNs28AiS0IKtzgI2qKCtXWwYdNMg4Ju88dpuPoOTvfC7tOc2YEwDPvbG1axQeCoCEjZ2WiQahl0_FN9v0w-eESQsdQYBNdn58HPzHmqei6ly-PsiEpjP1DzA8qhB3zOlM81KhNsuGHBVHKCIt0MsRs_jQNO-cpW/w197-h200/IMG_0238.jpg" width="197" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i>A Book Trailer for Livvi Biddle!</i></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">As I mentioned last Friday, this image of my protagonist <i>Livvi Biddle </i>from <b><span style="color: #990000;">The Sibylline Scroll</span></b> (my upcoming MG novel), is my way of introducing you to my main character prior to the book's release in September 2023.</div><div style="text-align: left;">Another way is this new book trailer!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NwxuVSeYcq4" width="320" youtube-src-id="NwxuVSeYcq4"></iframe></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>I had a blast creating this video - I hope you enjoy it!</i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Artwork by Michael Lindstrom Artist</span></div><p></p>Victoria Lindstromhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694066132860951997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-912990416231855573.post-83478073820691992382023-06-07T05:00:00.020-07:002023-06-07T05:00:00.141-07:00Whimsical Word of the Week<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9nF1pcAaY04ran3dp2xh-UAPo4YrEUJLUz_MdgoLVTjNYCuL8U1VzE4t4uraUekeWN7CNVuOC6edz1_u1MYnaxRetRgujfFSrY_4fzGakJg-1N-Ng0lZh_my_DbQ_ubJvFuMLPfeMqifPAXl8fJw75J-bf2k2sJnQTuxhgT5OLtKezc0_U5I1uHh-/s1595/Illuminated-Letters-Full-Alphabet%20(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="905" data-original-width="1595" height="114" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9nF1pcAaY04ran3dp2xh-UAPo4YrEUJLUz_MdgoLVTjNYCuL8U1VzE4t4uraUekeWN7CNVuOC6edz1_u1MYnaxRetRgujfFSrY_4fzGakJg-1N-Ng0lZh_my_DbQ_ubJvFuMLPfeMqifPAXl8fJw75J-bf2k2sJnQTuxhgT5OLtKezc0_U5I1uHh-/w200-h114/Illuminated-Letters-Full-Alphabet%20(1).jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Munificence </b>- (n.)</div><div style="text-align: left;">the quality of being extremely generous.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Example: The charity organization was grateful for the philanthropist's munificence.</span></div><p></p>Victoria Lindstromhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694066132860951997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-912990416231855573.post-56041079382628938062023-06-05T05:00:00.074-07:002023-06-05T05:00:00.152-07:00Bibliophile's Corner<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXsXdFu0APW-GPNwcMmx-IF7LE4FAcZSy5xvEr07l2ybGlBmnK4FipCTnT9OPgAh4BfRptCOtjucNI7Z4Tfu5joSigPP6tWYVFhfWiHOA87RFMxJMPO3Qu3Z4lu99Jr1E-epexMkuLv-A7ovIJN8zqVAcb7b6v5QOoS2SA00NBEczvIQS_rU_3mP6a/s2146/62918681.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2146" data-original-width="1400" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXsXdFu0APW-GPNwcMmx-IF7LE4FAcZSy5xvEr07l2ybGlBmnK4FipCTnT9OPgAh4BfRptCOtjucNI7Z4Tfu5joSigPP6tWYVFhfWiHOA87RFMxJMPO3Qu3Z4lu99Jr1E-epexMkuLv-A7ovIJN8zqVAcb7b6v5QOoS2SA00NBEczvIQS_rU_3mP6a/s320/62918681.jpg" width="209" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i>The Book of Charlie</i></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">by David Von Drehle</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Flap Copy Description:</div><div style="text-align: left;">When a veteran Washington journalist moved to the Midwest, he met a new neighbor who was more than a century old. Little did he know that he was beginning a long friendship - and a profound lesson in the meaning of life. Charlie White was no ordinary neighbor. Born before radio, Charlie lived long enough to use a smartphone. When a shocking tragedy interrupted his idyllic boyhood, Charlie mastered survival strategies that reflect thousands of years of human wisdom. Thus armored, Charlie's sense of adventure carried him on an epic journey across the continent, and later found him swinging across bandstands of the Jazz Age, racing aboard ambulances through Depression-era gangster wars, improvising techniques for early open-heart surgery, and cruising the Amazon as a guest of Peru's president.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">David Von Drehle came to understand that Charlie's resilience and willingness to grow made this remarkable neighbor a master in the art of thriving through times of dramatic change...</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">My Thoughts:</div><div style="text-align: left;">I discovered <i>The Book of Charlie</i> via the Instagram account of Tom Hanks; thanks so much Mr. Hanks! It's always a pleasure to read an authentically inspirational book; when it's full of humor, wisdom, and history, well, I'm all in. Mr. Von Drehle's book would make a great graduation or Father's Day gift. I'll be purchasing more copies for gifts myself. Bravo, David Von Drehle!</div><p></p>Victoria Lindstromhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694066132860951997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-912990416231855573.post-50904864048100882912023-06-02T05:00:00.116-07:002023-06-02T05:00:00.142-07:00Storyteller's Journey<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIzr11eRvxwuCWTwTWc0m00XbEgd8VxaTwDjXr4KQXmc6_TeY4bHHpts_xJlNgY_fvwBW0B78INAQSQ70DB72uTu9kTwx1MbYFmmNEUgKWiWQkDXK9cbeQRixEmx-Ujt9N1V-IRjb9KsrC79CEVCJbRR5EukPvp3KWjNiVgQTkxk14RhMlugQ4pYjZ/s681/IMG_6842.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="681" data-original-width="464" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIzr11eRvxwuCWTwTWc0m00XbEgd8VxaTwDjXr4KQXmc6_TeY4bHHpts_xJlNgY_fvwBW0B78INAQSQ70DB72uTu9kTwx1MbYFmmNEUgKWiWQkDXK9cbeQRixEmx-Ujt9N1V-IRjb9KsrC79CEVCJbRR5EukPvp3KWjNiVgQTkxk14RhMlugQ4pYjZ/s320/IMG_6842.jpg" width="218" /></a></div><b>MY BOOK COVER REVEAL!</b><p></p><p>After twelve years of outlining, writing, revising, and editing, my upper middle grade fantasy novel is finally about to become a reality! <b><span style="color: #660000;">The Sibylline Scroll</span></b> is the first novel in my new book series: <b style="font-style: italic;">The Time Travel Tales of Livvi Biddle. </b>I absolutely love the cover! Many thanks to Michael Lindstrom and Kriston Clark for bringing it to life.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh34-ocJbegNmSjj9AvuHsAa5W4crReruFyqO4K9kKciMmi2_CvZ5OqXAZX7zZmYZQY_68m2g_TrYlUJhOQVO_Si3G2I_p_llw5SYChcKBfnAH05iBfZPx7XHVXg49PGl8Hff0R_TmIKRdSuK33FER5KMv9BTp1hU3O-qp_f9iJS81l7jo-Sb5vfzdw/s586/IMG_0238.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="586" data-original-width="576" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh34-ocJbegNmSjj9AvuHsAa5W4crReruFyqO4K9kKciMmi2_CvZ5OqXAZX7zZmYZQY_68m2g_TrYlUJhOQVO_Si3G2I_p_llw5SYChcKBfnAH05iBfZPx7XHVXg49PGl8Hff0R_TmIKRdSuK33FER5KMv9BTp1hU3O-qp_f9iJS81l7jo-Sb5vfzdw/w197-h200/IMG_0238.jpg" width="197" /></a></div><p>I had hoped to use this image of <b>Livvi Biddle </b>on the front cover, but as we went through the arduous process of creating the cover, it was clear that that just wouldn't work. But something else did...</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHj1bEikgrXKQ08LCfVkbLsKckduTDz9UoV-Fms77CvafleCVWJHdGc6zxQGIG-VuFmO_2-Ia6rJMHs5Q-3l6GhNdHEieCBa_Q9jJE-UYnb3WYLJ-ksyFFevBvCzRG_8xkDDHi2VKf33A_HlHcqqxZY20vvHSPq6nrRlifrum_qVtA0zomGADek7Lh/s681/IMG_7072.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="681" data-original-width="467" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHj1bEikgrXKQ08LCfVkbLsKckduTDz9UoV-Fms77CvafleCVWJHdGc6zxQGIG-VuFmO_2-Ia6rJMHs5Q-3l6GhNdHEieCBa_Q9jJE-UYnb3WYLJ-ksyFFevBvCzRG_8xkDDHi2VKf33A_HlHcqqxZY20vvHSPq6nrRlifrum_qVtA0zomGADek7Lh/s320/IMG_7072.jpg" width="219" /></a></div>When we began designing the back cover, we realized that there was a perfect spot for the image of <b>Livvi Biddle!</b><div><b><br /></b></div><div>The process of creating this novel has been the most rigorous, and the most rewarding, of any of the books I've written. To learn more about <b><span style="color: #783f04;">The Sibylline Scroll</span></b>, and to subscribe to my newsletter, check out my website, <b><a href="https://victorialindstrom.com/">here. </a></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i>Stay tuned! The book will be available this autumn 2023!</i></b></div>Victoria Lindstromhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694066132860951997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-912990416231855573.post-59474241532143590802023-05-31T05:00:00.030-07:002023-05-31T05:00:00.142-07:00Whimsical Word of the Week<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgws2kr3VOZNB8Yq-8sjTWM3kfgdW5nZdSqswmJNkiHDcPuwG826yDQhvtgiyUWLG1_QmJ6A2wP6KMl8PPt8RhvG7-hZI5-56YoFbh4EC-CMdHp4fisEs53RqG1TPjVE6Kqou2OSfWbuhbtsXxVl40xx6QZIary96AX6dp_jFMuq5gGJiz_NGNiLKa6/s1595/Illuminated-Letters-Full-Alphabet%20(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="905" data-original-width="1595" height="114" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgws2kr3VOZNB8Yq-8sjTWM3kfgdW5nZdSqswmJNkiHDcPuwG826yDQhvtgiyUWLG1_QmJ6A2wP6KMl8PPt8RhvG7-hZI5-56YoFbh4EC-CMdHp4fisEs53RqG1TPjVE6Kqou2OSfWbuhbtsXxVl40xx6QZIary96AX6dp_jFMuq5gGJiz_NGNiLKa6/w200-h114/Illuminated-Letters-Full-Alphabet%20(1).jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Xertz </b>- (v.)</div><div style="text-align: left;">the act of gulping down a beverage in haste.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Example: The wasabi sauce was so hot that the teen needed to xertz a pitcher of water after only one bite.</span></div><p></p>Victoria Lindstromhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694066132860951997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-912990416231855573.post-77474012113857298092023-05-29T05:00:00.063-07:002023-05-29T05:00:00.149-07:00Bibliophile's Corner<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii0t6YG8kIY2tWCY1KAZ_YESilYTiaaprTC5-f53G70ZEslT_RW-q0S72bjhTekhR-JwU7AmCnyzj_PYqjqsDwXGhae4Iw6DFcM2X5Fs3cuQhHV1ujRHKBbS26CWvtDy8tjyYJ-D6CROVscmJ36fpKsdEmQfWwnae9rO5ZHEtGZB5XlrMDsZPdOXdb/s1750/60320512.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1750" data-original-width="1400" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii0t6YG8kIY2tWCY1KAZ_YESilYTiaaprTC5-f53G70ZEslT_RW-q0S72bjhTekhR-JwU7AmCnyzj_PYqjqsDwXGhae4Iw6DFcM2X5Fs3cuQhHV1ujRHKBbS26CWvtDy8tjyYJ-D6CROVscmJ36fpKsdEmQfWwnae9rO5ZHEtGZB5XlrMDsZPdOXdb/s320/60320512.jpg" width="256" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i>Palace of Books</i></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">by Patricia Polacco</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Flap Copy Description:</div><div style="text-align: left;">"You mean they have a whole big building that is only for books?"</div><div style="text-align: left;">When young Patricia Polacco's family moves from Union to Battle Creek, Michigan, it is hard for Patricia to believe this new place will ever feel like home. But soon she meets the kind librarian, Mrs. Creavy, and discovers the library's doors are always open. Now Patricia has a place to explore and study books about the birds that she loves. Mrs. Creavy even shows her the books of John James Audobon and helps Patricia introduce her classmates to the joy of birds and become the first member of the Audobon bird club of Fremont Elementary.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">My Thoughts:</div><div style="text-align: left;">Just one more children's book review of the season - for lovers of libraries! If ever there was a book for children about the joys of a library, it would be <i>Palace of Books! </i>While the book is an autobiographical account of one chapter of the author's childhood, what I found so endearing was how the kindness of one librarian - and the books that she shares - can change the life of a child forever. I highly recommend <i>Palace of Books</i> by Patricia Polacco to readers aged four to seven!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Click <b><a href="http://www.patriciapolacco.com/index.html#author">here</a></b> to learn about the author/illustrator, Patricia Polacco.</div><p></p>Victoria Lindstromhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694066132860951997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-912990416231855573.post-61714770940652667192023-05-26T05:00:00.106-07:002023-05-26T05:00:00.155-07:00Storyteller's Journey<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibx0dCUI5iZcauPsG13yrHXK0l6ZkwNBhoXCTC8gBp64DXM-JG4ZIVLlYsbBe1-SN_NokBPAUN0JEhquldzDWonzHRNINFrqMFpQKllpsEPlFUQKlm3fcRSHNyR7X6iOIh6YbYzViWi9wnR89NNobrv2IOwEGfz7QKZ2fH_z5zjwU-e3vAoI5dglx9/s340/thCAFD8U6G%20(1).jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="188" data-original-width="340" height="111" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibx0dCUI5iZcauPsG13yrHXK0l6ZkwNBhoXCTC8gBp64DXM-JG4ZIVLlYsbBe1-SN_NokBPAUN0JEhquldzDWonzHRNINFrqMFpQKllpsEPlFUQKlm3fcRSHNyR7X6iOIh6YbYzViWi9wnR89NNobrv2IOwEGfz7QKZ2fH_z5zjwU-e3vAoI5dglx9/w200-h111/thCAFD8U6G%20(1).jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #3d85c6;">My Annual Summer Reading List!</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Once again, it's time to feature the list of children's books that are my favorites since last fall. Merely select a title, click on it, and read my review. Enjoy!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">YA = Young adult, MG = Middle Grade, PB = Picture book</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i><a href="http://writofwhimsy.blogspot.com/2023/03/bibliophiles-corner_0383806941.html">Freewater</a> </i></b>by Amina Luqman-Dawson (MG)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://writofwhimsy.blogspot.com/2022/10/bibliophiles-corner_01962071843.html"><b><i>Fairy Tale</i></b> </a>by Stephen King (YA)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i><a href="http://writofwhimsy.blogspot.com/2023/01/bibliophiles-corner_0386423551.html">Beneath the Keep</a></i></b> by Erika Johansen (YA)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i><a href="http://writofwhimsy.blogspot.com/2023/02/bibliophiles-corner.html">Northwind </a></i></b>by Gary Paulsen (MG)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i><a href="http://writofwhimsy.blogspot.com/2023/03/bibliophiles-corner.html">The Inheritance Games </a></i></b>by Jennifer Lynn Barnes (YA)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://writofwhimsy.blogspot.com/2023/05/bibliophiles-corner_02037051543.html"><b><i><span>Elf Dog</span> & Owl Head</i></b> </a>by M.T. Anderson (MG)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i><a href="http://writofwhimsy.blogspot.com/2022/10/bibliophiles-corner.html">Frigg's Journey to Anasgar </a></i></b>by Deb Cushman (MG)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i><a href="http://writofwhimsy.blogspot.com/2023/02/bibliophiles-corner_02032048452.html">Hot Dog</a> </i></b>by Doug Salati (PB)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><a href="http://writofwhimsy.blogspot.com/2023/05/bibliophiles-corner_01461242511.html"><b><i>The First Notes</i></b> </a></span>by Julie Andrews & Emma Walton Hamilton (PB)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i><a href="http://writofwhimsy.blogspot.com/2022/11/bibliophiles-corner.html">Forgotten Fairy Tales of Kindness and Courage </a></i></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">by Mary Seabag-Montefiore (Anthology)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">* * *</div><p></p><p><i><span style="color: #3d85c6;">There's something here for everyone! Happy reading this summer!</span></i></p>Victoria Lindstromhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694066132860951997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-912990416231855573.post-37594761400022808822023-05-24T05:00:00.018-07:002023-05-24T05:00:00.144-07:00Whimsical Word of the Week<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6UXc7hXRYhlDE2GbaOCmm2sgB_mvTsa-VoGZ3ZQrjRQg6De_CImSEnPh9jS7zEP5dLIjKeouCkaMafvi0rFbBAAsArTdnXEmb6tAlUY-2J1_-iTx9FKa3mdM8xsJaCX6lMxe-YvrnSlKf6sHMCl5Xc0ocupz13ZIvvcjb1IoPuNIunf2LRIME-Soj/s1595/Illuminated-Letters-Full-Alphabet%20(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="905" data-original-width="1595" height="114" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6UXc7hXRYhlDE2GbaOCmm2sgB_mvTsa-VoGZ3ZQrjRQg6De_CImSEnPh9jS7zEP5dLIjKeouCkaMafvi0rFbBAAsArTdnXEmb6tAlUY-2J1_-iTx9FKa3mdM8xsJaCX6lMxe-YvrnSlKf6sHMCl5Xc0ocupz13ZIvvcjb1IoPuNIunf2LRIME-Soj/w200-h114/Illuminated-Letters-Full-Alphabet%20(1).jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Alpenglow</b> - (n.)</div><div style="text-align: left;">a reddish glow seen at sunrise or sunset on the summits of mountains.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Example: After setting up his campsite, the mountain climber relaxed and enjoyed the alpenglow.</span> </div><p></p>Victoria Lindstromhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694066132860951997noreply@blogger.com