Anne Bradshaw's Place

Tu Publishing Needs Our Help - A Worthy Cause

2009-12-10T06:30:00.006-07:00

Stacy Whitman is raising funds for Tu Publishing: a small, independent multicultural SFF press for children and YA on Kickstarter! Tu Publishing will publish fantasy and science fiction for children and young adults, emphasizing multicultural characters and settings. In order to help her get word out about this noble venture, I asked if I could post Stacy’s recent email on my blog.

And here it is – along with two informative and compelling videos at the end. In Stacy's words, "I believe in the power of books to change lives. Children's books, especially, have the ability to inform, inspire, and entertain in a way that few mediums can."

Dear Friends,

As some of you know, I'm a children's book editor. Since I was laid off at Wizards of the Coast, where I edited fantasy and science fiction novels, I've been freelancing, and I've decided that the next step will be to start my own company. If you guys are on Facebook, you might have already seen me posting about the small press that I'm starting, Tu Publishing. If you're not, I'm working on starting a small publishing company that will fill a gap in the market, to publish multicultural fantasy and science fiction for children and young adults. Our website is www.tupublishing.com, if you want to know more about our mission.

To get started, publishing books takes a lot of money, even on a "shoestring" budget. That's why I'm doing a Kickstarter campaign-to raise enough money to get started and give a reward to everyone who donates. If enough people donate $5, or $15, or $20, we'll be able to reach our goal. For every donation through Kickstarter, the donator gets a reward: bookmarks, early copies of books we publish, books donated to libraries, etc. For a really big, pie-in-the-sky donation, I've even promised an author visit. :) So they get something for their money, and with enough people banding together, the project can become a reality.

The project has had almost 3 months to run. So far, we're up to $5,268 of $10,000 and ONLY 3 DAYS LEFT! (This figure will update daily)

So we've got some ground to cover. no money exchanges hands if we don't reach $10,000.

For the link to the Kickstarter page click HERE. It's completely secure. Payments are handled through Amazon payments.

With my job experience and expertise, I know I can make this company a success if we can reach this goal. With $10,000, we'll be able to start acquiring books, and then after we've gotten a book or two out, I'll be able to approach a bank for a Small Business Administration-guaranteed loan. (That $10,000 will be supplemented by my own income and perhaps a few small investments from other people-the $10,000 is seed money, basically.)

Anyway, I just wanted to make you aware of this, in case you hadn't seen it on Facebook. I know money is tight everywhere right now, so if you can't fit it in your budget, I understand. But if you do have a few bucks to spare and think this is a good cause-making sure that there are more fantasy and science fiction books out there that feature characters from all backgrounds-you'll get something back for it.

Another way you can help is to blog or Twitter or tell your Facebook friends about it, giving them the links above. The more people who know about it, the more people who might have an extra $5 or $20 to spare.

Thanks, everyone! Happy holidays!

Stacy

GIVE-AWAY - Rare Autographed DVD - Live Performance of The George Dyer Show Branson, Missouri

2009-12-09T06:30:00.030-07:00

We have another treat for you this week. International vocalist, George Dyer, whose endorsement is on the back cover of Famous Family Nights, is giving away an autographed DVD of a live performance of “The George Dyer Show” from the Dutton Family Theater in Branson, Missouri. Similar DVDs are sold for $25 and usually only available to members of the live audience who actually saw the specific performance. The show is wonderful and features Broadway favorites and popular standards sung as only George can sing them.

The following highlights are from George Dyer’s website and other communications about his work. There is so much more to George’s accomplishments that it’s impossible to include it all here. It’s been difficult knowing what to leave out. He’s well worth reading about on his website at www.georgedyer.com.

George Dyer soared onto the operatic scene in 1996, making his professional debut to rave reviews with the New York City Opera as Ralph Rackstraw in H.M.S. Pinafore at the Lincoln Center in New York City. He has performed extensively to wide acclaim in prestigious opera houses and concert halls across North America and in many countries throughout the world (see résumé ).

Mr. Dyer has been a guest soloist with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir on numerous occasions, including a 2005 worldwide broadcast to over 63 countries, translated in over 75 languages. He has been a district finalist in the Metropolitan Opera auditions and a national finalist in the San Francisco Opera's Merola Program auditions. His operatic prowess notwithstanding, Mr. Dyer is a gifted performer of musical theater; he has enchanted countless audiences in the United States and Europe with solo concerts that feature a delightful mix of opera and Broadway favorites.

George Dyer has toured as a featured soloist with composers Kurt Bestor and Lex de Azevedo, performing throughout the United States, in Europe and in Israel. Other engagements include a solo recital for the Temple Square Concert Series in Salt Lake City, tenor soloist with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir for the world premiere of Manooken's "Lazarus", as the Innkeeper in Michael McLean's "Forgotten Carols", and with Ballet West for their production of Orff's "Carmina Burana" and Stavinsky's "Pulcinella".

He was named "Best Male Recording Artist" of the year in 2004 by the FCMA (Faith Centered Music Association). He has released three solo recordings on the Shadow Mountain Label: "Wondrous Love", "Then Sings My Soul", and his latest release, "A New Song", an adult contemporary CD--all of which have received numerous accolades and awards, including several Pearl Awards.
Mr. Dyer filmed two live made-for-TV concerts in Jerusalem for acclaimed composer Lex de Azevedo's Oratorios entitled "Gloria: The Life of Christ-part 1" and "Hosanna: The Life of Christ-part 3". He made his film acting debut in 2006 in two Lightstone Studios musicals in the "Liken the Scriptures" video series: as King Darius in "Daniel and the Lions" and as the wicked Chancellor Nimrod and the heartless Superintendent Dormin in "Samuel the Lamanite" (he relishes playing "a really good bad guy!") broadcast worldwide on TBN (Trinity Broadcasting Network) and BYU TV, respectively.

See Events & News for upcoming events. George’s latest Christmas CD is titled "Merry Christmas" and contains the following songs: I've Got My Love to Keep Me Warm, Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, Believe, The Christmas Song, What Child Is This?, The Christmas Waltz, I'll Be Home for Christmas, Breath of Heaven (Kendra Dyer), and O Holy Night.

In addition to his demanding performance schedule, George has a flourishing voice studio; he is a gifted voice teacher and acting coach.

GIVE-AWAY RULES

Follow my blog - 1 entry

GIVE-AWAY RESULT - Dallyn Vail Bayles' Inspirational CD, Prayer

2009-12-09T06:01:00.001-07:00

The winner of Dallyn Vail Bayles' CD, Prayer, is Diane who posted her entry in many places, including on her blog at Through the Years.

Congratulations, Diane! Please send me a mailing address, which I'll forward to Dallyn Vail Bayles. You can find my email address on my website by clicking on www.annebradshaw.com.

Thanks so much, Dallyn, for giving away this superb CD. And thanks to everyone who took part in this contest.

Please return in a moment for this week's exciting give-away (worth $25!).

Barnes & Noble Book Signing Thursday December 10

2009-12-07T06:30:00.007-07:00

Come join in the fun at Barnes and Noble this Thursday, December 10th, 6 - 8 p.m. It will be a grand opportunity to get your Christmas gifts before the rush and at good prices. You can't beat books for Christmas. They last a lifetime and become valued treasures.

I'm signing copies of Famous Family Nights. The effects of this book could last longer than a lifetime. There could well be eternal family consequences :-)

Another Famous Family Nights T-shirt will be given away in a drawing, and I'd like to get pictures to share on my blog.

Looking forward to meeting some of you if you can make it.

Barnes & Noble is at:
University Crossings Plaza
330 East 1300 South
Orem, UT 84058
Tel: 801-229-1611

Don't Miss Latest Peek in the Past Post

2009-12-05T06:55:00.000-07:00

Meet me over on Writing Fortress today for another Peek in the Past. This month my post is titled "Walking the Walk."

Mystery Revealed

2009-12-04T10:39:00.001-07:00

Okay, this really is a pretty nice gift that Dr. Stan is giving (see post below). Please click HERE for more information.

Mystery Gift from Dr. Stan Gardner

2009-12-04T07:42:00.002-07:00

This was written by Dr. Stan Gardner yesterday. So where he says "tomorrow" he's talking about today. Hmmm! A bit of a mystery. And I love mysteries :-) Read his message below, then watch this space for further developments.

Dear Healthy Thinkers,

You know how in the last several days I have been giving you little hints that I’m up to something big?

I’m so excited I can hardly type this! I have something incredible to share with you: a Christmas and New Year of Health gift that I am GIVING to you. It’s too big to tell you about all at once, so I want to tell you about how the whole idea came about . . .

I wanted to share with you some of my New Year’s Resolutions:

1. I want to express my gratitude more often for our incredible bodies and their self-healing power

2. I want to share my knowledge and experience in the medical field with like-minded people who want to achieve dynamic health and energy

3. I want to provide people around the world with healthy alternatives to drugs and surgery, using integrative medicine, alternative medicine, complementary medicine, holistic medicine–you get the idea; it’s all pretty much the same thing

I shared my thoughts with the family over the Thanksgiving holidays, and Josh, one of our sons, came up with an idea that was so incredible he couldn’t sleep! When he told me about it, I got very excited too. I’ll share it with you tomorrow…

GIVE-AWAY - Recording Artist Dallyn Vail Bayles' Inspirational Album, Prayer

2009-12-02T06:30:00.024-07:00

This week, award-winning actor, singer and recording artist Dallyn Vail Bayles (another contributor to Famous Family Nights) is giving away a copy of his inspirational album, Prayer.

Experience moving performances of familiar and original ballads including “Bring Him Home” (from Les Misérables), “Savior, Redeemer of My Soul” (with recorded violin performance by Jenny Oaks Baker), and the stirring tribute to the Prophet Joseph Smith, “I Have Seen Him,” all woven together with thoughts that illuminate the power of prayer in our lives. Prayer won the 2008 Pearl Awards for Inspirational Album and New Recording Artist, and the 2008 LDSBA Listener’s Choice Award for New Artist.

Here are two of countless endorsements for Prayer from Dallyn’s website:

“There isn’t a song on the entire album that does not bring tears to my eyes. We listen to it at least once a week in our home, if not more, because of the spirit it brings.”

“This has now become my favorite CD of all time. Dallyn’s [voice] is absolutely gorgeous. It is so clear and rich and pure and distinct. His selection of songs was superb. He needs to be on Broadway. He belongs there. I am a fan for life.”

Dallyn Vail Bayles is currently performing throughout the USA with the national tour of The Phantom of the Opera as the Phantom, Raoul, and André understudy. He has also performed across the U.S., Canada, and

China with the Broadway touring company of Les Misérables. Brother Bayles will be familiar to LDS audiences for his portrayals of Hyrum Smith in the films Joseph Smith The Prophet of the Restoration and Emma Smith: My Story, as well as his performances in three “Liken the Scriptures” movies.

Dallyn has a new album currently in production set for release April 2010 on Deseret Book’s Shadow Mountain music label. It’s entitled Song of Redeeming Love and contains songs about the Savior and the many important roles He plays in our personal lives and in the Plan of Salvation.
For more information about Dallyn and to hear excerpts from his album, Prayer, please visit www.dallynvailbayles.com.

GIVE-AWAY RULES

Follow my blog - 1 entry

GIVE-AWAY WINNER - Ronda Gibb Hinrichsen’s Mystery Novel, Missing

2009-12-02T05:58:00.000-07:00

The winner of Ronda Gibb Hinrichsen’s mystery, Missing, is Martha who posted her entry on her blog at Reviews at Martha’s Bookshelf.

Congratulations, Martha! Please send me a mailing address, which I'll forward to Ronda. You can find my email address on my website by clicking on www.annebradshaw.com.

Thanks so much, Ronda, for giving away this book. And thanks to everyone who took part in this contest. There was a lot of interest this week. Maybe I’ll keep the new rules :-)

Please return in a moment for this week's exciting give-away.

Famous Family Nights Review on Meridian Magazine

2009-12-01T06:23:00.004-07:00

Click HERE for review of Famous Family Nights in Meridian Magazine.

Meridian columnist C. S. Bezas also interviewed me. Take a peek and see how I answered her question, "Were there ever any times of discouragement during any of your writing projects? If so, what did you do?"

The Living Christ: The Testimony of the Apostles

2009-11-30T06:07:00.000-07:00

This beautiful video about the Savior was sent to me by LDS Principles. The inspiring music is by vocalist Jenny Philips.

The words below are taken from The Living Christ: The Testimony of the Apostles and can be found at http://jesuschrist.lds.org.

He was the Great Jehovah of the Old Testament, the Messiah of the New. Under the direction of His Father, He was the creator of the earth. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made (John 1:3). Though sinless, He was baptized to fulfill all righteousness. He went about doing good (Acts 10:38), yet was despised for it. His gospel was a message of peace and goodwill. He entreated all to follow His example. He walked the roads of Palestine, healing the sick, causing the blind to see, and raising the dead. He taught the truths of eternity, the reality of our premortal existence, the purpose of our life on earth, and the potential for the sons and daughters of God in the life to come.

He instituted the sacrament as a reminder of His great atoning sacrifice. He was arrested and condemned on spurious charges, convicted to satisfy a mob, and sentenced to die on Calvarys cross. He gave His life to atone for the sins of all mankind. His was a great vicarious gift in behalf of all who would ever live upon the earth.

We solemnly testify that His life, which is central to all human history, neither began in Bethlehem nor concluded on Calvary. He was the Firstborn of the Father, the Only Begotten Son in the flesh, the Redeemer of the world.

He rose from the grave to become the firstfruits of them that slept (1 Corinthians 15:20). As Risen Lord, He visited among those He had loved in life. He also ministered among His other sheep (John 10:16) in ancient America. In the modern world, He and His Father appeared to the boy Joseph Smith, ushering in the long-promised dispensation of the fulness of times (Ephesians 1:10).

Of the Living Christ, the Prophet Joseph wrote: His eyes were as a flame of fire; the hair of his head was white like the pure snow; his countenance shone above the brightness of the sun; and his voice was as the sound of the rushing of great waters, even the voice of Jehovah, saying:

I am the first and the last; I am he who liveth, I am he who was slain; I am your advocate with the Father (D&C 110:34).

Of Him the Prophet also declared: And now, after the many testimonies which have been given of him, this is the testimony, last of all, which we give of him: That he lives!

For we saw him, even on the right hand of God; and we heard the voice bearing record that he is the Only Begotten of the Father—

That by him, and through him, and of him, the worlds are and were created, and the inhabitants thereof are begotten sons and daughters unto God (D&C 76:2224).

We declare in words of solemnity that His priesthood and His Church have been restored upon the earth—built upon the foundation of apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone (Ephesians 2:20).

We testify that He will someday return to earth. And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together (Isaiah 40:5). He will rule as King of Kings and reign as Lord of Lords, and every knee shall bend and every tongue shall speak in worship before Him. Each of us will stand to be judged of Him according to our works and the desires of our hearts.

We bear testimony, as His duly ordained Apostles—that Jesus is the Living Christ, the immortal Son of God. He is the great King Immanuel, who stands today on the right hand of His Father. He is the light, the life, and the hope of the world. His way is the path that leads to happiness in this life and eternal life in the world to come. God be thanked for the matchless gift of His divine Son.

Latest Album by Lyle Hadlock - Take Time to Be Holy

2009-11-28T06:17:00.000-07:00

Today, I'd like to post a note from musician and composer Lyle Hadlock and the Lyle Hadlock Music Team. They have a new CD ready for Christmas. I really enjoy listening to Lyle's music and have ordered copies already. They're selling at a great price and come highly recommended.

Greetings! We are pleased to announce the completion of a new CD entitled, Take Time to Be Holy.

You can listen to the music on-line at LyleHadlockMusic.com, and place your pre-order to get on the list for its release in mid-December.

If you pre-order by December 5th you will be receive your copy in time for Christmas! We hope to pre-sell at least 100 copies before that time so tell your friends.

We're sure you will love this new CD with its stirring arrangements for which Lyle is known.

Visit us today at LyleHadlockMusic.com and listen for yourself.

Have a very Merry Christmas!
The Lyle Hadlock Music team.

Rose Datoc Dall and Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing

2009-11-27T06:44:00.003-07:00

Watching the video below can really help on a bad day. Can add to a good day, too :-)

The outstanding painting used in the video still is called Dignity and Majesty and the artist is Rose Datoc Dall (left). For a better digital image of Dignity and Majesty please visit Rose's gallery at Picasa. Rose's blog at www.rosedatocdall.blogspot.com takes us inside her studio where excellent pictures of her work are also displayed.

Rose is the talented artist whose picture appears on the cover of this month's (December) Ensign magazine. Her inspiring conversion story can be read on Jackie Coleman's blog at Jackie's Little Corner.

The video was compiled by Sokrplyr2.

May Your Thanksgiving Day be Happy and Full

2009-11-26T07:26:00.002-07:00

GIVE-AWAY - Author Ronda Gibb Hinrichsen's New Novel, Missing

2009-11-25T06:30:00.038-07:00

This week’s give-away comes from author Ronda Gibb Hinrichsen who is offering a copy of her latest novel, Missing.

A BYU-Idaho choir tour in British Columbia turns out to be anything but ordinary when soloist Stacie Cox spots a kidnapped child from Rexburg during a performance. Before Stacie can alert the authorities, the little girl disappears. Stacie vows to find and rescue her, a choice that forces her to deal with her guilt-ridden past and another little girl that haunts her dreams. When the handsome Matt Brennan helps Stacie in her search, she tries to resist the attraction she feels for him. Yet as he gains her friendship and trust, her resolve to never fall in love begins to crumble. And after a series of harrowing events, Stacie must decide if she is willing to sacrifice her life — and a possible future with Matt — to save a stranger.

“One of the amazing things about the writing process,” Ronda says, “is the uncanny way fiction melds with true life. Like the story about Tracie Dean I saw on Oprah one afternoon while I was writing Missing. She, like my lead character, Stacie Cox, had a chance encounter with a child (and adult) that unsettled her to the point that she contacted several police agencies, believing the child had been kidnapped. Finally, after having no success with the authorities, she returned to the place she'd originally seen the girl and eventually helped the police rescue her and uncover the truth: she and another boy were sexual abuse victims. Yes, my story is fiction, but heroines like Stacie Cox really do exist.”

Ronda Gibb Hinrichsen received her Associates Degree in English fromRicks College and studied writing at Weber State University and Utah State University. Her numerous magazine and internet writing credits include fiction and nonfiction published by The Friend, New Era, Ensign, Guideposts for Kids, Class Act, and yourLDSneighborhood.com. She also enjoys teaching writing and speaking in various venues.

Ronda first knew she wanted to be a writer when she was in the 6th grade. Her English teacher had been reading S.E. Hinton's The Outsiders to the class, and when she reached the section where Johnny urged Ponyboy to stay “gold,” Ronda realized she wanted to write "golden” words just as Hinton had. More than that, she wanted those words to encourage the "golden" in others—to help them see they can reach for the goodness inside them and accomplish their goals.

Missing is available at Deseret Book, Amazon.com, and other LDS stores.

Purchase Missing by November 30, 2009 and receive a free, personalized children's story by email. See Ronda Gibb Hinrichsen's website at http://www.rondahinrichsen.com for details.

GIVE-AWAY RULES

Follow my blog - 1 entry

GIVE-AWAY WINNER - James Loynes' CD His Name Shall Be Called Wonderful

2009-11-25T06:20:00.000-07:00

The winner of James Loynes' CD, His Name Shall Be Called Wonderful, is Connie LaRene Hall who posted her entry on her blog at C. LaRene Hall

Congratulations, Connie! Please send me a mailing address, which I'll forward to James Loynes in England. You can find my email address on my website by clicking on www.annebradshaw.com.

Thanks so much, James, for giving away another beautiful CD. And thanks to everyone who took part in this contest.

Please return in a moment for this week's exciting give-away.

Latter-day Directory is Going Places

2009-11-23T07:08:00.001-07:00

This morning, I thought I'd let you all know about an excellent resource directory building daily over at Latter-dayDirectory.com.

To quote from their "About" page:

The Latterday Directory is a unique and innovative source for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to promote, search, and connect with businesses and events either sponsored by or owned by fellow church members. The aim of the site is to provide targeted promotional opportunities for our contributors, combined with the most comprehensive search tools for our visitors, in a medium that is decidedly unlike other search engines and directories currently on the Internet.

The LatterdayDirectory.com web site is a work-in-progress as it’s exact navigation and content will ultimately be determined by it’s contributors. For the foreseeable future the promotions will be broken down into national and/or regional listings. As content increases categories for types of businesses and events will be created as will a more refined search capability by location.

Unlike most start-up business listing directories LatterdayDirectory.com already has a potential audience of over 185,000 members or friends of members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on it’s for-bearer Facebook page 1Million Mormons (1MMoFb).

Other unique attributes of the site include a feedback and rating system for businesses, contributor managed content for immediate promotional updates, and a format that is simple and uncluttered. Multiple opportunities are available for you to promote your business or event. Contact us now to get in early at amazing savings!

Latter-day Directory also has a Facebook page that can be accessed HERE.

Confetti Book Signing - Warm and Friendly

2009-11-21T07:17:00.006-07:00

I had to post a picture or two from last night's book signing. That's Lu Ann Staheli on the left - author of When Hearts Conjoin (The Salt Lake City Herrin conjoined twins story), me in the middle, and Bridget Cook - co-author of Shattered Silence – The Untold Story of a Serial Killer’s Daughter on the right.

Signing at Confetti Antiques and Books in Spanish Fork is always a happy thing to do. Last night was no exception.

We had a fun-filled couple of hours in the good company of store owners Donnie and Kara Morris; their lovely family of willing helpers; and customers and friends who were full of Christmas cheer.

And yes, Santa was there, too!

Thanks, Donnie and Kara, for hosting this event. Your store is the best in town.

The Famous Family Nights T-shirt give-away draw will continue at the store until Christmas. So hurry along down there if you're in the area and add your name to the bowl. It's a great shirt to wear for family night.

Shock and Awe Family Home Evening

2009-11-20T06:20:00.001-07:00

Rebecca Irvine, author of Adventures with the Word of God (Horizon/CFI 2008), has a new family home evening book released by Cedar Fort, Inc. this month. Family Home Evening Adventures is filled with twelve fun seasonal activities, puzzles, questions, and lessons based soundly in the scriptures. This book lets parents effectively plan for the entire year with a theme for each month.

Rebecca, a resident of Mesa, Arizona, is married to adventurous husband, Steve, and is the mother of three children. Most of their family night experiences are par for the course, but we thought you all might enjoy reading one fun evening Rebecca shared with me.

Family home evening is often an enjoyable occurrence in the Irvine household. We have fun singing, playing games, and having a gospel-oriented lesson. Not many of our family home evenings, are very memorable -- except for one lesson we had a year or so ago, which will always burn brightly in the history of our experiences.

The lesson that night was about the importance of scripture study and was based on a chapter in the manual Teachings of the Prophet Spencer W. Kimball. In this chapter there was an entire page of comments by President Kimball about the story of King Josiah in the book of Second Kings in the Old Testament. President Kimball expressed a love and appreciation for this scriptural account because it tells of how King Josiah rediscovered the scriptures and rejoiced in having the word of the Lord to live by.

As I was giving the main body of the lesson, I decided to delegate part to my husband, Steve, and asked him to tell King Josiah’s story. Without reading the exact account in the scriptures, I opened the Bible to Second Kings for Steve and then left him to read and decide how to tell the story in his own way.

When I turned the time over to Steve during the lesson for his story he began by having the children draw pictures of idols. Apparently idol worship was a major problem during the days of King Josiah.

“What is this about?” I thought. I was surprised; this did not seem to fit well with what President Kimball had described, but I let Steve carry on without interrupting him. Our three children were happily drawing and paying close attention. “This will all tie in eventually,” I guessed.

The idols, once drawn, were cut out and then taped onto a “temple” Steve had built out of Lincoln Logs and a cookie sheet wrapped in tinfoil. He told the children about how King Josiah rid the temple of idols and idol worship by having the wicked priests put to death and the bones of other sinful priests dug up and burned. For this part Steve had placed paper cut outs of bones in a pie tin with dry brownie mix. He had the children dig the bones out of the “dirt” and place them on the cookie sheet.

Again, the kids were happily participating and loved licking their fingers after this fun exercise, but I was beginning to wonder where this was all going. Especially when Steve pulled out the lighter fluid.

Once the bones were on the cookie sheet, Steve dumped lighter fluid on them and lit a match.

“Now, although Daddy is using matches in the house, you kids know you should never play with matches, right? Especially in the house, okay?” Steve asked. With eyes like saucers, three little heads bobbed their heads up and down nodding their agreement. After this little warning Steve then dropped the match, setting the “bones” of the wicked priests on fire.

The pyrotechnics rose up at least three feet into the air and the faces of our children shone of complete shock and amazement in the light of the flames. The fire did not last long with such little fuel, but it created a surprising amount of black smoke and took only a few seconds before the fire alarm went off. The screeching was so loud we had to plug our ears.

After the alarm was turned off I continued to wonder about this extraordinary story. It was seemingly nothing like the account discussed by President Kimball. I asked my husband, “What about how King Josiah recovered the scriptures?”

“Oh yes,” Steve said, “That happened, too. While rebuilding the temple Josiah found the scriptures and was really happy about that.”

I do not remember how I ended the lesson—I am sure none of us do. But we will all remember the story of King Josiah and the memorable family home evening story we had that night.

GIVE-AWAY - James Loynes' Christmas Album His Name Shall Be Called Wonderful

2009-11-18T06:30:00.010-07:00

We promised you a surprise this week, and here it is. If you missed entering the give-away for James Loynes' CD, How Can I Keep from Singing?, you have another chance to hear his mellow voice this week as he gives away a copy of his outstanding Christmas album, His Name Shall Be Called Wonderful.

As mentioned last week (click HERE), James was born in Wales, UK, and he and his wife Francesca currently live in Southport, England. James is a music professional who tours with BBCs live stage tours, directs dramatic productions, sings for charity events, and for British national television.

On his website at www.jamesloynes.com, James says, “It was so much fun working on this recording project (His Name Shall Be Called Wonderful) over in the States with songwriter Sally DeFord. Her songs really are beautiful. When working on a project like this, you sometimes take the songs for granted, but every time I hear them, I fall in love with them all over again. It's a real Christmas chill-out album.

"With a soothing blend of traditional and original material, His Name Shall Be Called Wonderful is a touching reminder of the true meaning of the holiday season. It was thrilling to hear some friends announce their Christmas Eve plans: 'We're going to put James' CD on to help us relax when the kids are finally in bed!'"

Sally DeFord, in a note last Christmas, said of James, "This is a spectacular singer--enjoy!"

Listen to some of the music from His Name Shall Be Called Wonderful below:

James also has a blog at jamesloynes.blogspot.com/.

His Name Shall Be Called Wonderful can be purchased in the UK from James’ website, and from the Latter-day Book Store in Chorley and Godstone by calling them direct at 01257 249750 (Chorley) or 01883 744060 (Godstone), and in the US at http://kunaki.com.

James will be directing the United Voice's Christmas concert in the Millennium Ballroom at Southport's Temperance Institute (England) on Saturday 19th December at 7:30 PM for a festive celebration. James says, “The choir and soloists will be performing an exciting seasonal repertoire, including some of the greatest Christmas No.1's in the UK's charts. Come along and join us. It's guaranteed to get you in the festive spirit!” (For tickets call: (01704) 513671 or 07732 345475)

This week’s GIVE-AWAY RULES:

Mention this week's give away on your blog (linked back to my blog), OR on Facebook (click on Anne Bradshaw and add me as your friend if not already), and then return and leave a comment here on my blog (with a link back to you).That's it!

This give-away runs for a week, ending Wednesday, November 25th, and there will be a reminder at the top of my blog each day. The winner gets chosen from the comments. The prize comes direct from James in England.

GIVE-AWAY RESULT - James Loynes' CD, How Can I Keep from Singing

2009-11-18T06:00:00.002-07:00

The winner of James Loynes' CD, How Can I Keep from Singing, is Carina from Idaho who posted her entry on her Facebook page.

Congratulations, Carina! Please send me a mailing address, which I'll forward to James Loynes in England. You can find my email address on my website by clicking on www.annebradshaw.com.

Thanks so much, James, for giving away this beautiful CD. And thanks to everyone who took part in this contest.

A surprise was promised for this week's new give-away. Please return in a moment to see what it is.

New Family Home Evening Website Giving Away Famous Family Nights

2009-11-17T06:53:00.001-07:00

There's a new website on the block called Family Home Evening. It's at http://www.family-home-evenings.com, and guess what? They're giving away a copy of my book, Famous Family Nights! How cool is that?

So be sure to hop on over and enter the drawing. I think you'll love the site. It has lots of great ideas coming up for family nights.

My Interview with Heather Justesen, Author of The Ball's in Her Court

2009-11-17T06:00:00.002-07:00

Heather Justesen is an LDS author, business owner, volunteer-EMT, puppy mama, (not to mention the cats, fish, chickens and other assorted poultry), whose much-neglected hobbies number almost as many as her pets. Her love of books started long before she could read. Once she started writing, she found she could no longer let the stories stay in her head--she had to get them on paper. Her second book is slated for publication summer of 2010.

Her first book, “The Ball’s in Her Court” is a romance about a woman’s search for answers to her life before foster care and her subsequent adoption.

Here’s the back-liner copy:

She's got a great job, a loving group of family and friends and basketball skills like you wouldn't believe, but Denise DeWalt's life is far from perfect, and she's about to come face-to-face with a past she hoped to leave behind forever.

Twenty-six-year-old Denise thinks she's come to terms with her childhood in the foster care system, but when her old nightmares return, Denise realizes that she must deal with her past once and for all if she ever wants to move on to a brighter future with Rich, the only man who can see past her former life. As Denise's search leads her closer and closer to the one person she hoped she'd never have to face again, she begins to realize that her future depends on just one person--herself.

This emotional and inspirational love story proves that life is full of unexpected twists and turns--especially when it comes to facing your demons, fighting for love, and finding happiness for the future.

Anne: Hi, Heather, tell us something about your writing journey. When did you first know you wanted to be an author?

Heather: I’ve been told by more than one family member that I’m the only one who didn’t know I would write books some day. I’ve always been a voracious reader and loved to imagine ‘what if,’ so I guess it was only a matter of time before I broke down and started writing something. I actually started writing early in 2000 as a way to vent stress when my husband and I were both laid of at the same time for several months, and I haven’t been able to leave it alone for long since. Though I wrote a lot of copy those first few years, and my writing improved dramatically due to constant practice, it wasn’t until I began attending writing conferences and getting feedback from other writers that what I produced had a chance of actually making it into print.

“The Ball’s in Her Court” isn’t the first thing I submitted to a publisher, but I was sure this one was good enough when I started sending it out, so I was thrilled to get my contract. Getting that first acceptance given me a lot more self-confidence, so I’ve been pushing myself to make and my own deadlines for future books and stay on task. On the other hand, it’s funny how nervous I still got when I submitted my next book. I think it was worse than with ‘The Ball’s in her Court”—and I know a lot of other writers feel the same way, even award-winners who’ve published lots of books. I guess that’s one worry that never goes away.

Anne: When you start a new story, which comes first, the character or the plot?

Heather: Most of my books have started with the plot. I think ‘What if this happened…’ then start to select and setting and characters and decide how they’d react. I have had characters who demanded to be written about, however, and a plot has formed around them. The two books I’ll be writing next year are an example of this. The minor characters from other books are demanding to have their own stories, so I’ve been plotting and planning in between the stories I’m working on. I’m really anxious to get started, but have to finish up some other projects first. Dang deadlines.

Anne: What is your process of brainstorming a story? Do you just sit down and write, waiting to see what happens next? Or do you outline first?

Heather: I used to be a total discovery writer when I first started—which is probably why it took me so long to publish. Since I started plotting before I get any serious writing done, the process is much smoother for me. Of course, I often still plunge in and write 20 pages or so before I go back and plot. It allows me to see where the stories are going and what the characters want to do before I write it down. I’m also kind of a loose plotter—I plan it out, then close the file and only look at it when I start to feel like I’m losing the threads. It’s a guideline—not a straight jacket!

Anne: What words of advice do you have for other writers who desire to have their manuscripts become books in print?

Read a lot. Write regularly—every day if you can, several times a week if that’s the best you can do. Get involved with other writers, people you trust to critique your work honestly, and take classes, read articles online, learn about your craft. When you submit that book, you want it to be the best it can be, so learn everything you can about good writing so it will shine.

Anne: How long does it take you to write a story?

Heather: I get this question a lot, but it’s a hard one to answer as every story has taken different amounts of time to create a first draft, and then the various edits, while I worked on other books in between. A new book, however, would probably be 6 to 8 months from beginning to end, which allows me to take it to my weekly critique group a chapter at a time, and then various edits. This doesn’t allow for my normal copious amounts of procrastination, however, so this could be rather conservative.

Anne: How much research goes into your books?

Heather: This varies a lot. With “The Ball’s in Her Court,” I had done all of the research for myself (hundreds of hours) before I ever considered putting it into a book, so the time spent researching for the book itself was nearly non-existent. “Rebound,” which is a spin-off story coming out next May, I did quite a bit of research both online and quizzing experts on basketball (my sister and her husband), because I knew very little.

I want the books to be as realistic as possible because I hate reading something and stopping to roll my eyes because someone assumed TV was correct instead of checking their facts. I admit, I probably over research most of the time in an effort to understand every nuance, not just the details I’ll actually use.

Anne: What do you like reading these days?

Heather: I’m a pretty eclectic reader covering nearly every genre except horror—I really don’t like being scared. I read a lot of romance, since that’s the genre I mostly write in, but I really like a good mystery or a fun fantasy. I’m currently reading “An Angel on Mainstreet” by Kathi Oram Peterson.

Thanks for talking to me on your blog, Anne!

Anne: Thank you, Heather. Your book sounds most entertaining. I hope to read it soon.

You can read a first chapter of “The Ball’s in Her Court” on Heather’s website (HeatherJustesen.com), check out her blog for upcoming events and contests (heatherjustesen.blogspot.com), or see her book trailer on YouTube.

Attending a Mormon Church Service

2009-11-16T06:24:00.000-07:00

There is an excellent new website now available at www.mormonsmadesimple.com, which can be helpful to anyone investigating The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The site contains short animated videos such as the one below that explains what to expect when attending a service in one of our chapels (not to be confused with our Temples).

This photograph is of the Puerto Princesca Chapel in the Philippines.

Lifting Burdens: The Atonement of Jesus Christ

2009-11-13T06:26:00.001-07:00

Apostles of Jesus Christ testify of the Savior's power to heal, change, and purify us through His Atonement. This uplifting video says it all so beautifully.