They Have Not Chosen Me

by Summer D Clemenson | Dec 20, 2025 | About Summer, Cancer, Chronic Illness, Life, Opinions

Today was a special day. A birthday. They are hard. Days for special people that I love with all my heart that I can’t reach because they have not chosen me. Jamie Holloway suggested we have cake and sing, “Happy Birthday.” She was right. It helped a lot.

I have been trying very hard to not write about certain people. I want to be done with them but they still live in my dreams. They are still in my history. They still make me cry.

I recently texted something I needed to say to my mom, but I couldn’t say it to her. I don’t need an apology. I just needed to tell her. People can only give what they have. Most people don’t have the words I need. That is what Karen G Clemenson and Jamie and a few others that know who they are, are for.

Mom said that she thinks the blog is what really triggered these people. Whether that is what she meant, I felt some blame in that phrase. I am not angry about it. We don’t have to agree to love each other.

I never pulled all the heads off of someone’s dolls until they made Cabbage Patch Dolls and I couldn’t do it anymore so I outlined their mouths with blue ink. I have never chased anyone around a house with a knife on more than one occasion. I have never kicked anyone in the stomach over and over again while they begged me to stop. I have never stolen anything from anyone, especially their senior year, year book with messages from people they can never replace. I never helped someone buy their psych meds and then told everyone about it. I never told people I paid someone to do something that they did for free. I never poured river rock on top of the flower beds they dug out by hand and planted bulbs that they never saw produce. This is the short list. This is the list of only one person. This is the list that hurts the least.

This is the substance of a system that I was not born into but it became as I grew older and things changed; while my family changed.

I was told by several therapists that I should leave my family. I loved them. Most importantly there were sibkids (kids of siblings) that I adored and I knew if I left, I would never see them again because the system was what it was, so I stayed.

But when I got really sick, the kind of sick that doesn’t go away, I realized I had to change. And when I prayed to God for a partner because I really didn’t want to live anymore, and I didn’t want to live alone because even though I was surrounded by people, none of them ever chose me, there was Karen. So we married and even though nothing got better right away, I had some joy. One day we came over for dinner and my mom even told me how beautiful I looked. I didn’t know what to say. Joy does that for you.

But we tried to be part of this system and Karen was watching me get worse. And one day after a visit when I was unable to stay awake or get out of bed, she came home from work and begged me to get out of bed and eat something and take my meds. She begged me not to let them take me away anymore. And when the depression subsided and my mind came back around, I realized I had to make a choice, so I called my mom and then my dad and I told them both that I had to take a break from them. I didn’t know where the pain was coming from and I needed a break. My therapists suggested a complete cut, but I didn’t want that. I had hoped that it would just be a break.

But my sisters heard about it and they cut me off and took their kids. My only pure joy.

Ms. Colvin, my father’s second wife remained who she is. My oldest sister remained who she is. My older, younger sister stayed who she is. My father chose who he always chooses. There were lots of terrible things.

It became permanent.

I cannot and will not apologize for my writing my truth. I cannot and will not apologize for living authentically. Abusers need to be outed. I deserve to be advocated for. I deserve to be my own hero. I have earned my freedom. I will never get back the love I wasn’t given and that I deserved.

God is a God of reconciliation. It is because He healed me so much that I could hear Him when my youngest sister reached out to me and He said it would be ok, that I read her message about our mother that I have had amazing moments with her. But I have fought hard to be able to stand in my truth. I will not sit down now. I will not be quiet and let things be.

I will not attack my abusers on purpose. They do not have to read my blog.

It is their love for drama that created my need for the outlet that sometimes my blog is. This is my 653rd article on this website. These articles that might bring them up might take up only >5-10% of all of them. I am a warrior. I have beat cancer. Jamie reminds me of that all the time. I may have spent most of the day in bed today, but tomorrow I will get up and have a great day.

I am free from the system that my extended family holds dear.

Oh BTW I beat cancer!

~

Feel free to leave your comments below!

My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Jesus Follower, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Jesus Follower…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.

~

Learning About Cortisol

by Summer D Clemenson | Dec 2, 2025 | Fuel Your Wellness, Wellness

This article was originally posted on WellnessWorksNW.com on November 25, 2025.

What is Cortisol?

I find myself bombarded everywhere about this one word and even as Karen G Clemenson came home and asked me about it, I knew we needed to be learning about cortisol. Cortisol is a hormone that helps control our mood, motivation, and fear. Cortisol does this by helping our body regulate how our body uses glucose (sugar), manages inflammation, regulates blood pressure, and controls our sleep-wake cycle or circadian rhythm. Our hypothalamus and pituitary gland, both located in our brain, controls our cortisol production by releasing other hormones. In order to have healthy cortisol production our hypothalamus, pituitary gland and adrenal glands must all be working correctly. Cortisol regulates many functions and affects almost all organ systems in our body.

Cortisol manages how our body uses carbohydrates, fats and proteins. When we experience stress, our bodies release adrenaline and cortisol to keep us on alert. When cortisol is released, this triggers the release of glucose from our liver so we have energy and a burst of higher immunity. Cortisol also tells our pancreas to decrease insulin and increase glucagon in order to regulate blood sugar. In a body with normal short spurts of stress, cortisol can limit inflammation. However if our body becomes used to regular high levels of stress so that it becomes used to a traumatic life, we can have chronic inflammation and a weakened immune system.

People with high levels of cortisol can have high blood pressure. They can also suffer with anxiety, depression, headaches, and heart disease. People with lower than normal levels of cortisol can have low blood pressure.

Symptoms of High Cortisol Levels

Symptoms of high cortisol levels, or people who may may have Cushing syndrome, which is caused by a mass in your adrenal gland or a tumor in your pituitary gland can include:

Easy bruising
Excessive hair growth in females
Fatty deposit at the base of the neck between shoulder blades
High blood pressure
High blood sugar, which often turns into Type 2 diabetes
Muscle weakness in your upper arms and thighs
Purple streaks on the breasts, hips, stomach and under the arms
Thin arms and legs
Weak bones (osteoporosis) and bone breaks
Weight gain, especially in face and belly

What Causes High Cortisol?

It is normal to have times of stress in our lives. Cortisol levels will usually return to normal after times of stress are over. Sometimes cortisol levels can remain high and you might require help from a professional if you continuously suffer with the following:

Chronic physical, mental or psychological stress
Cushing’s syndrome
Long-term steroid use
Sleep deprivation and abnormal sleep patterns
Tumors or growths on the adrenal glands or pituitary glands

Low Cortisol

Too little cortisol can be caused by several factors including:

Autoimmune disorders
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia, which is a group of inherited disorders that decrease adrenal gland function
Hypoglycemia
Infections like tuberculosis and HIV can impact the adrenal glands
Primary adrenal insufficiency, referred to as Addison’s disease, happens when your immune system attacks your adrenal glands
Secondary adrenal insufficiency or hypopituitarism, takes place when you have a tumor on your pituitary gland or an underactive pituitary gland
Suddenly stopping steroid, otherwise called, corticosteroid medications, after taking them for a long time
Traumatic brain injury can challenge pituitary gland, which regulates the adrenals

Symptoms of Low Cortisol Levels:

Abdominal pain
Diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting
Fatigue
Hyperpigmentation, or dark patches of skin
Hypoglycemia, low blood sugar
Muscle weakness that grows worse
Loss of appetite
Low blood pressure, hypotension
Unintentional weight loss

What You Can Do to Reduce High Cortisol Levels:

Although some medical conditions require medical treatment there are ways you can change your lifestyle to help your body naturally lower your cortisol levels:

Avoid stress
Build and maintain healthy relationships
Create a healthy sleep schedule
Eat a nutrient rich diet
Enjoy yourself and laugh
Guided Imagery
Journaling
Listening to music
Meditation
Move your body daily
Practice deep breathing exercises
Reframe negative thoughts
Restrict social media use
Self-hypnosis
Sex
Yoga

Social media has been connected to stress because it has been found that social media impacts our neuroendocrine system, which tends to be associated with the part of our brain that handles our bad habits or things we misuse or overuse. In a study it showed that 20 minutes of social media use generated a higher cortisol level for depressed adolescents, than nondepressed adolescents. Those likes actually produce dopamine hits; another hormone that makes us feel good.

What is Normal?

Taking a cortisol test can tell your medical team if your cortisol levels are correct or if they need to be managed. Normal cortisol levels range from 5-25 micrograms per deciliter (mcg/dL) around 8 am. Cortisol levels change throughout the day, the morning being the highest level, and the evening being the lowest level. The test can require blood (taken by a medical professional), urine or saliva which can be done at home. Samples will be taken at different times during a 24 hour period.

What is normal is hard to define for many reason, some reasons being, are even how we respond to stressors. Some of us are just better able to handle stress than others. While some of us, secrete more cortisol than others, in the same situation. For people with chronic stress, they might need to incorporate many tools into their daily life to manage their cortisol levels.

When to Contact A Medical Professional

Please seek medical attention if you are experiencing the following:

Abdominal pain
Dizziness or lightheadedness
High or Low blood pressure
Reduced consciousness
Severe depression and thoughts of ending your life
Trouble breathing

Part of wellness is prevention. Seeing a medical professional is part of a healthy lifestyle. Please make sure to see your doctor annually to make sure your numbers are going in the right direction.

If you are needing help creating a Wellness Plan that works for you, please Contact Wellness Works NW at 360-447-8061. Karen G Clemenson is a very caring and authentic person and she is looking forward to talking with you and helping you define your Wellness Goals and strategies. I hope this article answered questions you had and was easy to understand. If you would like us to write about a particular topic that you can’t find on this site, please send us an email on our Dear Jamie page and someone from Our Team will be glad to research and write about your topic.

Popcorn is also a whole grain that is linked to lower obesity rates. Before you add anything to popcorn, 3 cups of air-popped popcorn has 93 calories, 3 grams of protein, 18.6 grams of carbohydrates, 3.6 grams of dietary fiber, .2 grams of sugar, 1.1 total grams of fat, .2 grams of saturated fat, 1.9 mg of sodium and several nutrients.

At my house I make a huge batch of popcorn at a time. I use an air popper. I have a set of bowls, just like in this set. I use the largest bowl with the lid. It holds about 5 quarts of popcorn. When it is just us, I melt a stick of good quality butter like Land O Lakes (butter does have some nutritional value and contains MCT that is good for your brain) and add organic sea salt, black pepper, ground garlic and nutritional yeast. If our nephews were coming over, I would use coconut oil, instead of butter because they are lactose intolerant. I might also leave out the pepper, nutritional yeast and garlic since they are toddlers and they might now like the grown up flavors. When I want a sweet treat I have also used sea salt, cinnamon and organic sugar. The boys would probably love that too. Depending on how stressed we are the 5 quarts of popcorn will last us 2-5 days.

The other day, Karen was selling cheese and caramel popcorn at the store. She had mentioned it so many times that when we went grocery shopping I grabbed a bag. She was surprised. I only buy meat, fruits, vegetables and dairy when we go shopping, unless we are out of bread. I buy all our pantry items online at the beginning of the month and I rarely buy anything beyond dark chocolate as a treat unless I plan to bake something. But one time we were at Jamie Holloway‘s apartment and her sister brought over some Cretors Cheese and Caramel popcorn and it was amazing! So after listening to Karen talk about popcorn I just needed to take care of this craving. I don’t make caramel popcorn because I have little self-control over this food. But this regular sized bag of popcorn would be ok. It didn’t last the night.

The next day Karen brought home the leftovers from the samples she had been selling. There was more cheese and caramel popcorn. As I was enjoying the popcorn, she was watching me. This was new to her. I have gone through a lot of food changes over the years. She has not seen me enjoy popcorn out of a bag before. I make amazing popcorn. That was one thing my dad had taught me. He made great popcorn and when he left our house, I asked him how to make popcorn, then that became my job at home. My nana also loved popcorn. This is the part where flavored popcorn comes in. She lived in Seattle when I was really little and then when she married my Grandpa Bill, they lived in Kirkland. Both places are known for their malls and ports. Both of those places always had popcorn shops. Nana always had popcorn at her house and when we went shopping, we often got flavored popcorn. So when I enjoy flavored popcorn, I think of her.

I have never met a popcorn I didn’t like. Karen asked if I would buy this popcorn she brought home. I was honest. I would eat it, but I wouldn’t buy it. I will buy Cretors. Just like we don’t buy microwave popcorn, or even any I have found at our local stores. I buy organic purple Amish popcorn that I found online, because it is the best tasting popcorn I have ever eaten and even though it costs about $17 for 6 lbs, it takes us several months to eat 6 lbs of popcorn so I don’t think that is too much.

Food is health. We don’t eat microwave popcorn because there are chemicals in the bags. My body is sensitive to chemicals. That is why I make most of our food from scratch and why we only go to restaurants where I have not had a bad experience. It isn’t that I think restaurants that I have bad experiences are bad, I just know my body is sensitive to what they are cooking with. My body is sensitive to many healthy things and also unhealthy things. I am just protecting myself. Sorry for the rabbit trail. But if my experiences can help you, I am glad to able to tell you about it.

But back to popcorn. This is how we get through the cravings for other foods that have no health value. We are heading towards the holidays. The bible says that all things are permissible but not all things are beneficial. There will be many foods put in front of us this season. Maybe putting some popcorn out will help you eat less things that are not beneficial this season. Be blessed.

Ask Dear Jamie

Feel free to leave your comments below!

My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Jesus Follower, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Jesus Follower…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.

~

Honoring the Fact That I Am Depressed

by Summer D Clemenson | Nov 17, 2025 | About Summer, Chronic Illness

Today I am honoring the fact that I am depressed. Why do I use those words? Because I learned in my 30’s that being honest with myself was not negative but the first step in the right direction. If I recognize I am depressed then I know I need to either try harder or rest more. I have thought about why I might be depressed and it just comes back to the fact that I am chronically ill and I live in chronic pain and sometimes those two things make my life harder and I don’t like it and sometimes those two things impede on me more than I want them to and it makes me angry, so angry I lash out on me.

So I slept a lot today and then I made myself do my workout. I have been skipping my workout. Not every day but enough. I need my workouts. They are needed and I shouldn’t be skipping them unless I had surgery or I have a migraine. When I can think straight I know this. My workouts are not stressful. They focus on stretching and strengthening my muscles. They are not aerobic because my body doesn’t like those movements. However my rheumatologist has noticed how flexible I am and my oncologist has noticed my strength. These two characteristics are the foundation of stamina. I need them to support joints and nerves that often fail me. They have helped me not to fall countless times.

Since the day is almost gone I will not confuse myself with too much. I have a phone appointment or preop appointment with my oncologist tomorrow. I have to get up much earlier than usual so tomorrow I will get things done. Today I will spend some time in my bible. I will take a shower. I will go to bed early. I will take care of me.

When we are depressed it is wise to listen to ourselves and love ourselves. Often there is a reason and sometimes there isn’t. Or sometimes the reason isn’t one you can get rid of, but you can love yourself through the moment.

~

Feel free to leave your comments below!

My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Jesus Follower, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Jesus Follower…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.

~

5 Books for September 2025

by Summer D Clemenson | Sep 30, 2025 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions

Hi Everyone. September has been one intense month and I think it was about time to read some children’s books. These books were stellar and I am glad I had them to fall into. I imagine I will need to find more children’s books to disappear into as we wrap up 2025. I hope you find some time for the therapy of books and the peace that these colorful and simple books that we buy for our kiddos but can really benefit ourselves with as well.

Now without further ado 5 Books for September 2025:

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The Day the Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt

The Day the Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Day the Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt is very creative. The story begins with a pile of letters to Duncan from each crayon in his box. Each letter is from a different crayon. They describe the types of characters and items that the crayons might be used for. I love that the layout is in a correct letter format, as letter writing seems to be a lost art form. In the end, Duncan responds in kind, by creating a beautiful and very colorful drawing for his teacher at school. I think this picture book teaches colors, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence. The illustrations by Oliver Jeffers are fun.

I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of The Day the Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt on Amazon.

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It’s Ok to Be Different by Todd Parr

It’s Okay to Be Different by Todd Parr
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

It’s Ok to Be Different by Todd Parr is a super cute story time book. The illustrations are elementary and fun and full of great colors. The simple message of being different is ok, makes it so easy to talk about so many things, if for no other reason that to build confidence, vocabulary, emotional intelligence or many basic ideas around family and friends and even LBGTQIA relationships. I think this is such a great book.

I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of It’s Ok to Be Different by Todd ParrIt’s Ok to Be Different by Todd Parr on Amazon.

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Iggy Peck, Architect by Andrea Beaty

Iggy Peck, Architect: A Picture Book by Andrea Beaty
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Iggy Peck, Architect by Andrea Beaty is such a fun fiction read. It has a poetry-like timing to the writing that makes it fun to read. The creative vibe of Iggy is so inspiring. I love that Beaty encourages children to consider following their dreams even when their teacher doesn’t see it, until Iggy proves his passion for architecture. The illustrations by David Roberts makes the story come alive. The story is a great collaboration for art and humor.

I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Iggy Peck, Architect by Andrea Beaty on Amazon.

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The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn

The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn by Audrey Penn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn is the most loving story. I have loved this story for years. Children often have trouble starting new things but The Kissing Hand gives them a way to leave home with a happy thought to carry the love they have with them while they are away. The illustrations by Ruth E. Harper and Nancy M. Leak are precious and endearing and sure to open wonderful conversations about emotions, animals and fantasy. This is a sweet story to share with your favorite little one.

I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn on Amazon.

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Armadillo Rodeo by Jan Brett

Armadillo Rodeo by Jan Brett
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Armadillo Rodeo by Jan Brett is a fun story about a young armadillo named Bo that gets separated from his mom and brothers. He spends the summer day following a pair of red cowboy boots that he thinks is a red armadillo, because armadillos have poor eye sight, at a western rodeo. Bo ends up having a day full of fun until it is time to go home and luckily his mom and brothers find him just in time. This story was a great adventure and the art is outstanding.

View all my reviews

I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Armadillo Rodeo by Jan Brett on Amazon.

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I hope to hear from you. These books are great but I would love to hear from you about your favorite books. Maybe I can read your favorites too. Happy October.

Be blessed.

~

Feel free to leave your comments below!

My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Jesus Follower, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Jesus Follower…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.

Book Review: Rising Strong by Bréne Brown

by Summer D Clemenson | Sep 28, 2025 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions

I have spent a lot of my time in the last 11 years mourning. This is the time that I have been dealing with my chronic physical and mental illnesses. I have 14 diagnoses and only one can be cured, so grief is part of my life as I have dealt with a lot of loss. Loss my physical abilities and loss of relationships that were not healthy and had to be removed from my life. Rising Strong by Bréne Brown is a nonfiction self help book about learning how to grieve loss in order to be better. It is a good book about psychology, personal development, leadership, mental health and grieving. Much of it was review for me, but there were several helpful elements too.

The Rising Strong Process

Recognize emotions have been triggered and connect those emotions to thoughts or behaviors.
Revisit, challenge and reality check our stories to learn who we are and how we engage with others.
Fundamentally change our thoughts and beliefs to more courageous endings.

Elements of Grief

Feelings of Loss – Grief makes us reorient ourself physically, emotionally and socially
Longing – Involuntary desire for wholeness since grief comes in waves, we cane be surprised by what can trigger or what can matter to us.
Loss – Loss of normalcy. What we thought we knew about something or someone.

To truly forgive we must be willing to grieve. We must bury expectations of relationship or dreams. We must give up on being right. We must give up on support and approval of others.

Shame, judgement, privilege, connection, need, fear and self-worth can all be part of the same coin. If you can look at another human in the eye, can it be our own fear of need? Can it be our own privilege not allowing us to see our similarities? We have not been taught to give, but to receive our really see who we are giving to as our equal. In a moments notice, our circumstance could change and make us equals, not just as we actually are, but as society measures us.

Blame kills relationships and organizational cultures because it is toxic.

Authenticity is required for healthy relationship because with it comes action, courage, honesty and the ability to make amends. When you feel like getting even, maybe you should get curious as to what feelings you are feeling. Why are you needing to get revenge? What has caused you shame?

Find a list of memoirs that are encouraging on https://brenebrown.com/library/.

Books mentioned:

The Fault In Our Stars by John Green
The Book of Forgiving: The Fourfold Path for Healing Ourselves and Our World by Arch Bishop Desmond Tutu
The Places the Scare You by Pema Chodron
The Way We Never Were: American Families and the Nostalgia Trap by Stephanie Coontz

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I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Rising Strong by Bréne Brown on Amazon.

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Read My Review on GoodReads:

Rising Strong: The Reckoning. The Rumble. The Revolution by Brené Brown
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the first book by Bréne Brown I have ever read. Rising Strong was easy to read and understand. It was helpful and resourceful. I recommend it to anyone that needs help to find their own path through the hard parts of life.

View all my reviews

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Feel free to leave your comments below!

My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Jesus Follower, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Jesus Follower…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.

I Became Very Honest

by Summer D Clemenson | Sep 9, 2025 | About Summer, Chronic Illness, Opinions

My mother and I are getting to know each other again and she sent me a message, last night, that said she was hoping I would get free of my symptoms so we could go out again. Yesterday I was hit with a flare in the middle of the day, while out living life and had reached home, where I was trying to relax. I was also feeling a bit snarky. So I became very honest:

She didn’t respond. I’m sure she didn’t say anything because she doesn’t know what to say. It must be hard to hear her child, even though I am an adult, say these things.

It reminded me of a moment with one of my friends. She had stopped by to give me something. We were chatting in the parking lot and I was hurting. I wasn’t even thinking about it, but while we were talking, I was stretching certain parts of me. She finally mentioned that I was obviously in a lot of pain and she seemed surprised that I wasn’t even trying to hide it. It had never occurred to me hide it. I was talking to my friend and I live in chronic pain. These are two things I don’t have to hide. Myself from my friend or my pain from the world.

There is no shame in being in chronic pain or being chronically ill. God made me this way. I deal with it the best way I can but there is no reason to hide it and stretching is part of how I stay flexible and increase blood flow to joints and nerves that are screaming at me.

This is part of being honest. Something society has taught us to suppress. Our humanity is not wrong. How we choose to use it might be, but choosing healthy ways to handle pain, whether it is physically, emotionally, mentally or spiritually is never wrong. It might be a shock to someone who has never seen it before, but I am ok with that. I am not here to try to change anyone but if I show you something that awakens something honest in you, I hope it helps you.

~

Feel free to leave your comments below!

My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Jesus Follower, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Jesus Follower…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.

5 Books for August 2025

by Summer D Clemenson | Aug 25, 2025 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions

Are you looking for an adventure but it is too hot outside? Sometimes you are sun burnt and you need to stay inside. I get it. The sun actually makes me sick; I am not joking, I am very thankful for air conditioning. So I use books to help me go on adventures I would never be able to go on otherwise. Even if you aren’t a kid, sometimes children’s books can give you a short jaunt, when all you have is a few minutes, and it makes all the difference in the world. I look forward to my time with any book. I hope you do too.

Now without further ado 5 Books for August 2025:

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The Underwear Book by Todd Parr

The Underwear Book by Todd Parr
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Underwear Book by Todd Parr is a whimsical paperback book about underwear. We learn about different kinds of underwear and how to take care of it and also how to wear it. This colorful picture book is fun and even full of humor.

I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of The Underwear Book by Todd Parr on Amazon.

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Heather Has Two Mommies by Leslea Newman

Heather Has Two Mommies by Leslea Newman by Lesléa Newman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In the book Heather Has Two Mommies by Leslea Newman, Heather is starting school. And does she love it! But at story time she hears about other families and wonders if her family is the only family without a daddy. Ms. Molly, asks everyone to draw a picture of their family. In the end, the children share their pictures and Ms. Molly points out that it doesn’t matter who is in your family, as longs there is love.

This sweet fiction LGBTQIA+ story is brought to life by illustrations by Laura Cornell.

I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Heather Has Two Mommies by Leslea Newman on Amazon.

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Walter the Farting Dog by William Kotzwinkle and Glenn Murray

Walter the Farting Dog: A Triumphant Toot and Timeless Tale That’s Touched Hearts for Decades–A laugh- out-loud funny picture book by William Kotzwinkle
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have read all the Walter the Farting Dog books by Willam Kotzwinkle and Glenn Murray, but not the first one — not Walter the Farting Dog — until now and I absolutely love it! Just like all Walter’s adventures in farting, there is a sweetness in the family and even though the stories are silly, the love is real. The illustrations by Audrey Colman are fun and colorful. I think all kids will enjoy these children’s classics books.

I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Walter the Farting Dog by Willam Kotzwinkle and Glenn Murray on Amazon.

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The Boy Who Cried Fabulous by Leslea Newman

The Boy Who Cried Fabulous by Lesléa Newman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Boy Who Cried Fabulous by Leslea Newman is splendid and will be enjoyable to any person who is easily excited about the world and poetry around them. Roger is just like one of those people and he is often late because he is easily distracted by the spectacular, magnificent, elegant world he lives in and in the end, he even proves to his parents how stunning it really is. The fantastic illustrations by Peter Ferguson really help make this story more brilliant. I highly recommend this story to your book collection and your vocabulary list!

I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of The Boy Who Cried Fabulous by Leslea Newman on Amazon.

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The Peace Book by Todd Parr

The Peace Book by Todd Parr
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Peace Book by Todd Parr is a great nonfiction cultural book. It is easy to understand and easy to share. The pictures are bright and simple. The friends message is bright and simple too. This book is a keeper.

View all my reviews

I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of The Peace Book by Todd Parr on Amazon.

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This month’s books were very touching and thoughtful. It helped me stay in the right perception for where I want to be, even when there are stressful things happening in the world and it is very hot outside. I am thankful that I have access to wonderful books to help me feed my brain happy thoughts. I hope you do too.

Be blessed.

~

Feel free to leave your comments below!

My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Jesus Follower, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Jesus Follower…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.

I Got An Apology…

by Summer D Clemenson | Aug 15, 2025 | Cancer, Chronic Illness, Opinions

I got an apology from my doctors office today. It summed up several calls I have been working on all week because I am out of Eliquis right now as of 4 PM on Friday.

I ordered a refill the week before last because I didn’t have enough for this week. I refill my pill sorters on Saturday night and always order whatever I need either Sunday or Monday. I had enough to get through this morning so I didn’t plan to start bothering anybody until Monday.

I knew there was a chance there would be hiccups because not only was there a dose change but my regular doctor didn’t prescribe this bottle of Eliquis, it was a hospital doctor. Plus I now have a new specialist; a hematologist and I wasn’t sure how she would factor in.

I kept checking with the pharmacy to see if my prescription had been filled and it had not so I called my gynecological oncologist, Dr Westhoff’s, office because she has been managing this medication. After two calls I was told that it was decided the my hematologist, Dr Dong, would be taking over this medication and Dr Westhoff would be sending the information over to her. This was Wednesday.

Thursday I called Dr Dong’s office and was told that the medical assistant could see there was a message from Dr Westhoff’s office but she couldn’t see what it was, and she would make a note of my call.

I have had two occasions with blood clots in my lungs where I came close to death. Self-advocacy is always necessary, but I am also very concerned about not repeating my past experiences. I am trying to remain calm because at the middle of Thursday afternoon, I know I will take my last dose of Eliquis on Friday morning.

I’m dealing with a cold and slept in but I still call the pharmacy by 2 pm on Friday. I had woken up to use the bathroom and took my early morning pills. I am out of Eliquis. The pharmacy says they have received my prescription from Dr Dong’s office but my insurance won’t cover it. Now I must call United Healthcare.

So I call United Healthcare and I speak with Hussan and he tells me that the last time I picked up my prescription, I was given a three month supply and they will not cover my prescription until the second week in September. I appreciate their math, however, I explain to Hassan that I have cancer. I had gone off my Eliquis to undergo radiation therapy and three days later, I had tons of blood clots in both lungs. I spent 5 days in the hospital and had to have a thrombectomy and when I left the hospital, the doctor had prescribed that I would take 10 mg of Eliquis, twice a day for 6 days and then return to 5 mg, twice daily. However, those directions were changed by my hematologist, who said to continue on 10 mg, twice daily for the time being. Since Eliquis does not come in 10 mg tablets, that is why I am now out and need a refill.

Hassan told me that he could not help me. What needed to happen was that Dr Dong needed to file a form of medical necessity (this might not be the correct name of the document, I didn’t write it down). He said she would know what this was and this is what they need in order to override the block on my insurance coverage. I was appreciative but irritated. And then to make sure I was super frustrated, he put me on hold and patched me through to another gal (I couldn’t understand her name) in order for her to set up prescription delivery. I didn’t want to do that and we were both antagonized by that so we said goodbye and hung up.

Then I called Dr Dong’s office again and I told the office person the name of the document that I knew at the time, because it was fresh in my mind, and she agreed, the insurance company was just being difficult. She put me through to my doctors nurse, who was obviously busy helping someone else, so I left a message…

Then I called my wife, Karen G Clemenson, because, even when I leave my number, they sometimes call her number, so I needed her to know what they were calling about.

Finally I got the call. My prescription is filled and covered by my insurance. My doctor’s office is sorry because they should have updated prescription before so it would not have had to be like this. Personally I am just thankful that Karen can pick it up after she gets off work.

This is why you don’t wait until the last minute to check on your meds.

~

Feel free to leave your comments below!

My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Jesus Follower, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Jesus Follower…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.

Book Review: Come Thirsty by Max Lucado

by Summer D Clemenson | Aug 11, 2025 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions

I have always enjoyed the books I have read by Max Lucado. Come Thirsty is another of those inspirational books, yet because I was not ready for this book because my mind was stubborn, I still needed to read this nonfiction book and it helped to chip away at some of the hardness that I had let collect on me because that is what happens to us when we live in the world and forget to keep drinking the living water that is Jesus.

Even though we are not of this world, we do live here, and sometimes we forget to keep looking toward our spirituality life source so that we don’t pick up the old life that drags us down.

Come Thirsty is a Christian book with short chapters that make it easy to read while you get ready for the day or steal a few moments between tasks and try to get your footing between the stresses that come with balancing all the things we do while we try be all the things we are trying to be.

I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Come Thirsty by Max Lucado on Amazon.

Read My Review on GoodReads:

Come Thirsty: No Heart Too Dry for His Touch by Max Lucado
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

If your looking for a book to surprise you while you are trudging through life, Come Thirsty by Max Lucado is that book. Read the pages and let it remind you how much you are loved by God and how special you are because you are.

View all my reviews

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Feel free to leave your comments below!

My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Jesus Follower, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Jesus Follower…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.

I Want To Be Done Now

by Summer D Clemenson | Aug 9, 2025 | Cancer, Chronic Illness, Life, Prayers & Thanksgiving

On August 9th I wrote the following on Facebook:

This message is a very vulnerable one. I try hard to not live in this state because I know that I am here to live the life that God has created for me to live and I am not afraid to die. In fact there are very few things that I am actually afraid of for myself.

Angry Men Yelling
Earthquakes
Snakes
Personal Suffering
Other People Suffering

But through this time where I have had to undergo things that have shown me I am stronger than I realized, I know that the prayers of others have helped me so much. Although I try not to complain too often, when I have posted that I was suffering, those posts have been overwhelmed by the caring of others and I have felt the prayers and love from people I have both met and not met.

In a world where I have chosen to not join a church per se, I have found a church family, right here on Facebook, where there are people that regularly check in with each other and support each other, even if we have never met. We pray for each other and lift each other up and I find that to be refreshing because we don’t have to, but we do.

So when the moments come when I want to be done happen, I am always encouraged by you to keep going because there is always someone who cares and gives me encouragement. Thank you.

~

Feel free to leave your comments below!

My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Jesus Follower, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Jesus Follower…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.

We Are Not Friends

by Summer D Clemenson | Jul 31, 2025 | About Summer, Wellness

I blocked someone today. I don’t block many people but I blocked this person because they keep sending me friend requests and the reason we are not friends, after 3 decades, is that they chose to break off our friendship. They had done this a number of times. They had also re-engaged with me when they missed me again because I allowed it.

Over many years I allowed a co-dependent relationship. I forgave being judged wrongly many times. I overlooked bad behavior. I carried them a lot. I failed a lot too because this relationship was toxic. Two mentally ill people can really make a mess with each other’s hearts and minds, even when they have good intentions.

There are many good memories between us but there is also pain and abuse.

A few years ago, as I was getting healthier, I was seeing some imbalances and wanted growth. I felt that I was carrying more than my share. When I brought this up, I expected a grownup conversation but that wasn’t what I got. This was to be our last conversation. It will remain our last conversation because I realized we did not want the same thing and that is ok.

It is ok to let people go that we can’t grow with. It’s okay to set boundaries for yourself. I pray for this person when they are on my heart and I always will but I am done being abused.

~

Feel free to leave your comments below!

My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Jesus Follower, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Jesus Follower…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.

Sometimes Healing is Harder Than It Has Been Before

by Summer D Clemenson | Jul 30, 2025 | About Summer, Cancer, Wellness

Healing is hard. I have said this before. Sometimes healing is harder than it has been before. Sometimes it takes us deeper than we have ever been before. Lower than we have wanted to go before. Lower than blue. The shade I call minor depression. Because I don’t just feel my own pain. I am susceptible to the world’s pain and even if I don’t look at it on my phone or TV or read it, I know the seething, shaking, and moaning that is inside me, is not just my own.

If I didn’t have God, if He wasn’t here to help me bear this and take it from me when I am ready to let it go, I don’t know how I would handle it because my go-to people have their own burdens. But even if the wars didn’t war and the fires didn’t burn and the weather didn’t tear down people’s homes, there is my body.

This body. I have learned that she needs love and never criticism, but sometimes it is hard. When she hurts, when she is hungry, when she has been fed. When she is tired, when she has slept and when she hasn’t. When I have to decide it is time to push her and then she bursts into tears.

I haven’t been writing off of Facebook for months now and I opened my laptop to find writing from May…half finished and notes in notebooks strewn on the desk from somewhere between then and now and the strong part of me wants to laugh and the part of me that has trouble reading my scribbles is still crying for the dead children in Gaza and Texas.

But this is who I am: A passionate profit that writes and prays, sings and sleeps, cooks and creates, dreams and does what she can every day…

So I will drink my water and try to find the rest of my notes and try to breathe because I am trying to put myself back together again because the dermatologist said the rash that healed last week, even though it took months to get in to to see her, was eczema, and I refuse to put steroid cream on my face, so I will keep using my oils, and my oncologist has scheduled my imaging for the 12th, and I hope to be closer to feeling like myself before we do brachytherapy, when I will probably fall apart again.

PS: I have been using Mega Salve from Crafty Works on my face as well as Breathe by doTERRA

~

Feel free to leave your comments below!

My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Jesus Follower, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Jesus Follower…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.

I Have Built Muscle

by Summer D Clemenson | Jul 25, 2025 | About Summer, Cancer, Wellness

I don’t do a lot of cardio because too much causes my fibromyalgia to flare up. I especially have not been overly active this month because of the blood clot scare and having to take time to let my lungs, heart and liver heal, following this episode. I do, however, do an anaerobic workout most days. Anaerobic exercise is not cardio but focuses on strength training and stretching and over a long period of time I have built muscle. This is important because lean muscle mass burns fat.

It is also important because it makes me stronger. Even in the hospital, with blood clots, I surprised nurses and staff with my ability to help them, help me. It also came in handy yesterday

I don’t have as much endurance as I would like. I operate best at temperatures between 40-70 degrees. Any lower and my joints start to freeze up. Any higher and my joints feel better, but my body gets sick. Factor in that I am still healing from my blood clot episode and maybe even the one brachytherapy treatment (according to my oncologist) and it was 83 degrees while we waited for the tow truck, it was no shock to me that I could hear my blood pressure in my ears, which is usually perfect. Climbing into the tow truck was not something I could do without help.

But I am proud of Karen G Clemenson and I because we did it together. She has been lifting and she is stronger and I am stronger. I have also lost over 50 lbs. A few years ago when I needed help into the tow truck, it took both her and the tow truck driver, which was humiliating to me.

Even though I am still on the mend, I am going to add a few squats to my daily routine. Karen said 5 is a good place to start. I am hurting today so I agree, I don’t want to go too far, but I need to keep getting stronger and building my endurance. When you live with chronic pain you have to be patient with yourself but you make goals and see success.

~

Feel free to leave your comments below!

My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Jesus Follower, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Jesus Follower…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.

5 Books for July 2025

by Summer D Clemenson | Jul 16, 2025 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions

We are always heading somewhere, even if we don’t realize it. We are headed to the grocery store or to work or to the bathroom. Maybe to daycare or the library or to the doctor’s office. Sometimes we are physically grounded on the couch but our mind is wandering through our thoughts from the day. This is a good time to read a good book.The books we have this month have really great messages to take us in a good emotional direction. If you want to foster good thoughts and growth in your little one, I hope these books help you do that.

Now without further ado 5 Books for July 2025:

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My Hair is a Book by Maisha Oso

My Hair Is a Book by Maisha Oso
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

My Hair is a Book by Maisha Oso is an important book. Oso not only wrote the book for her daughter but for every child that thinks their black hair is not perfect or they need help with their self esteem. We are all beautiful and this book with great rhythm shows us that whether your hair is kinky, curly, long or short, you are every good thing. This uplifting book is a great picture book. This illustrations by London Ladd are inspiring.

I got this book from the Longview Public Library. You can get your own copy of My Hair is a Book by Maisha Oso on Amazon.

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This Story is Not About a Kitten by Randall de Seve and Carson Ellis

This Story Is Not About a Kitten by Carson Ellis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This Story is Not About a Kitten By Randall de Seve and Carson Ellis is a lovely story about community, and working together, an caring about animals, and meeting our neighbors, and making new friends, and repetition. I loved this book and the charming illustrations by Carson Ellis really help hold it together. I think I might have to add this story to my collection.

I got this book from the Longview Public Library. You can get your own copy of This Story is Not About a Kitten By Randall de Seve and Carson Ellis on Amazon.

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Wake Up Moon! by Lita Judge

Wake Up, Moon! by Lita Judge
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Wake Up Moon! by Lita Judge is a sweet story about animals enjoying the snow and each other. The picturesque illustrations make it easy to grab your attention. Most children will be captivated by this children’s fiction story.

I got this book from the Longview Public Library. You can get your own copy of Wake Up Moon! by Lita Judge on Amazon.

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The Walrus and the Caribou by Maika Harper

The Walrus and the Caribou by Maika Harper
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

The Walrus and the Caribou by Maika Harper is a traditional Inuit mythology story from Alaska about how the caribou and walrus were created. This multi-cultural nature story is enchanting and the illustrations by Marcus Cutler really bring it to life.

I got this book from the Longview Public Library. You can get your own copy of The Walrus and the Caribou by Maika Harper on Amazon.

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Ralph Tells A Story by Abby Hanlon

Ralph Tells a Story by Abby Hanlon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In the beginning of Ralph Tells A Story by Abby Hanlon, Ralph didn’t know how to start. He was really frustrated that his teacher at school assigned the entire class to write their own stories. Everyone was having success, but Ralph, who kept trying to find ways to get our of the room. Finally, Ralph found a quiet spot under his desk, where he began to imagine a wonderful story. When the whole class was called to the carpet to share their stories, Ralph was called first and what he shared was a huge triumph! Everyone loved Ralph’s story!

View all my reviews

I got this book from the Longview Public Library. You can get your own copy of Ralph Tells A Story by Abby Hanlon on Amazon.

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I have to admit, I didn’t read any of these books to anyone before I wrote about them for you this time. I read them just for myself and you know what? They did my heart good. It doesn’t matter how old you are, a good book, is a good book and even an adult needs to slow down sometimes and read a simple and good story sometimes. Even if you do it in secret. 🙂

Be Blessed.

~

Feel free to leave your comments below!

My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Jesus Follower, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Jesus Follower…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.

You Should Always Read Your Test Results

by Summer D Clemenson | Jul 13, 2025 | About Summer, Cancer, Food

You should always read your test results, especially if you are chronic. While preparing for radiation, I was having weekly labs, which showed me that I have low potassium one week and then, I was normal. I take a water pill daily and a potassium supplement because when you take a water pill, sometimes you eliminate important nutrients like potassium. But I also tend to crave an occasional pickle, potato or banana; these foods are high in potassium. Sometimes I get leg cramps, a sign of low minerals and I drink an unsweetened coconut water and I feel better.

It was good that I knew this because when I met my newest specialist, a hematologist, she asked me about my potassium levels and I had an answer.

I learned about paying attention to these things when I found out I had a tendency to become anemic. This is normal for someone with psoriatic arthritis. But it isn’t hard to maintain, usually. I try to have some beef a couple times a month. I eat one meal with meat (fish and poultry are fine) in it every day. I also love farm fresh eggs, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, spinach, cabbage, to just name a few of my favorite high in iron vegetables.

You can always google to look for the nutrients you are needing more of to add to your diet. Supplements are fine, but eating a well rounded diet is more satisfying and filling and also helps eliminate some of those unhealthy cravings that don’t help us reach our goals.

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Feel free to leave your comments below!

My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Jesus Follower, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Jesus Follower…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.

5 Books For June 2025

by Summer D Clemenson | Jun 19, 2025 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions

Summer is here and it is time to read. In my house, Summer is always here and there are piles of books everywhere. I need to buy a bookshelf or two. But hopefully those books will inspire adventures in the sun, or if you are feeling sick you can live vicariously through the pages of a wonderful story.

Now without further ado 5 Books for June 2025:

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King Alice by Matthew Cordell

King Alice by Matthew Cordell
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

King Alice by Matthew Cordell is a story about a family on a snow day, or rather, on the second snow day. The imaginative grade schooler is writing her story, starring as King and everyone else is her brave knight, including her Dad, Mom and baby sister.

King Alice starts each chapter of her book, which are the activities of the day, with humor. King Alice illustrates them too. This story is full of colors, pirates and unicorns to talk about. I found this to be an enjoyable read.

I got this book from the Longview Public Library. You can get your own copy of King Alice by Matthew Cordell on Amazon.

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Cinnamon Bun, I Love You 1 by Amy Schwartz

Cinnamon Bun, I Love You 1 by Amy Schwartz
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Cinnamon Bun, I Love You 1 by Amy Schwartz is a counting book with delightful illustrations. This book offers a number of sweet things to count and talk about while working on your toddler’s vocabulary and colors. This picture book is a great addition to your little one’s collection.

I got this book from the Longview Public Library. You can get your own copy of Cinnamon Bun, I Love You 1 by Amy Schwartz on Amazon.

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The Red Canoe by Anne Yvonne

The Red Canoe by Anne Yvonne Gilbert
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Red Canoe by Anne Yvonne is a beautiful story written like poetry that tells of a boy who enjoys his canoe and cares for it as he grows and eventually moves away. The canoe misses the boy, but luckily another boy moves in and fines the canoe and new adventures begin. The illustrations are stunning in this historical children’s fiction story.

I got this book from the Longview Public Library. You can get your own copy of The Red Canoe by Anne Yvonne on Amazon.

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Sofia Valdez Future Prez by Andrea Beaty

Sofia Valdez, Future Prez by Andrea Beaty
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love this book! Sofia Valdez Future Prez by Andrea Beaty has good timing so it is easy to read. It has colorful and fun illustrations by David Roberts that make you want to stop and take them all in. But most of all the characters are believable and encouraging and they work together with neighbors and politics to inspire Sofia to make their community better and since Sofia is only in the 2nd grade, maybe she will keep working through activism and relationships and find herself running for president one day.

I got this book from the Longview Public Library. You can get your own copy of Sofia Valdez Future Prez by Andrea Beaty on Amazon.

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Letters from Space by Clayton Anderson

Letters from Space by Clayton Anderson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Letters from Space by Clayton Anderson is a memoir and great book for readers at a 3rd to 5th grade level. I think the fun letters and lessons that Clayton writes, that he couldn’t actually mail back to earth without them catching on fire at re-entry, might inspire children to be interested in science and even a few future astronauts. This book is written in an easy to understand format and the illustrations by Susan Batori are fun and engaging.

View all my reviews

I got this book from the Longview Public Library. You can get your own copy of Letters from Space by Clayton Anderson on Amazon.

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I was lucky to find a few favorite stories to add to my must purchase list on eBay. I hope that you find a few favorite things this summer while you are doing whatever makes your heart happy.

Be blessed.

~

Feel free to leave your comments below!

My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Jesus Follower, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Jesus Follower…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.

5 Books for May 2025

by Summer D Clemenson | May 30, 2025 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions

When I was growing up my nana would read to my sisters and I. She would come alive with the story. She did voices and her her eyes would get big. Her face would become animated and her hands would grab our attention as they shot into the sky as she exclaimed great words. Nana loved words. Her love of words were instilled to me as she told us stories and wrote me letters. This is what reading to children can do for them. When you know how to read you can do just about anything you want.

Now without further ado 5 Books for May 2025:

A Fire Engine for Ruthie by Leslea Newman

A Fire Engine for Ruthie by Lesléa Newman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A Fire Engine for Ruthie by Leslea Newman is a thoughtful story about a little girl named Ruthie as she visits her Nana. Her grandmother has planned fun things for the two of them to do: a tea party with Nana’s dolls, dress up, and painting. But what Ruthie really wants to do is play with the neighbor boy, Brian. Brian has a fire engine with a black and white dog sitting up front, a silver ladder that slides up and down and a yellow hose to unwind. It also has a siren that goes Whee-ooh! Whee-ooh! Whee-ooh! Brian also has a train, a motorcycle, trucks, buses, and kinds of vehicles.

After Ruthie did all the things that Nana planned, she got her play day with Brian and Nana joined in too. The next day, they even went to the toy store and bought Ruthie her own fire engine.

This story is sweet and encouraging. It shows how good communication can work and play time isn’t about gender. The illustrations by Cyd Moore are adorable. I really enjoyed this book.

I got this picture book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of A Fire Engine for Ruthie by Leslea Newman on Amazon.

~

Frog and Toad All Year by Arnold Lobel

(Frog and Toad All Year) By Lobel, Arnold (Author) Paperback on 01-Jan-2000 by Arnold Lobel
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Frog and Toad All Year by Arnold Lobel is a book with several stories in it: Down the Hill, The Corner, Ice Cream, The Surprise, and Christmas Eve. Out of all the stories, about different times of the year, my favorite is Christmas Eve. I like this classic story because I can relate to both Frog and Toad. I used to be late all the time like Frog, but I am still anxious like Toad, who thought of terrible things that could have happened to have made Frog late. In the end, Frog and Toad were very happy to spend Christmas together because they are very good friends who love each other.

Frog and Toad have always been one of my favorites.

I got this adorable book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Frog and Toad All Year by Arnold Lobel on Amazon.

~

Little Blue Truck’s Halloween by Alice Schertle

Little Blue Truck’s Halloween: A Lift-the-Flap Book! by Alice Schertle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In Little Blue Truck’s Halloween by Alice Schertle, it’s Halloween and Little Blue Truck is heading to a party. Along the way he runs into other party goers and we get to guess who they are! We see animals and colors and costumes. How fun! The illustrations by Jill McElmurry are adorable.
View all my reviews

I got this book from my own personal collection. You can get your own copy of Little Blue Truck’s Halloween by Alice Schertle on Amazon.

~

Little Bear’s Friend by Else Holmelund Minarik

Little Bear’s Friend by Else Holmelund Minarik
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Little Bear’s Friend by Else Holmelund Minarik is a book with 4 stories in it: Little Bear and Emily, Duck, Baby Sitter, The Party at Owl’s House, and Your Friend, Little Bear. My favorite story is Little Bear and Emily. I love the illustrations by Maurice Sendak. I also love the description of the town and area where Little Bear lives. I enjoy hearing Little Bear interact with the squirrels, and birds, the little green worm, and finally, Emily, his new friend.

All of the stories in this children’s fiction picture book are about Emily’s visit during the summer. Little Bear and Emily had a wonder time.

I got this book from my own personal collection. You can get your own copy of Little Bear’s Friend by Else Holmelund Minarik on Amazon.

~

The I Love You Book by Todd Parr

The I LOVE YOU Book by Todd Parr
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

The I Love You Book by Todd Parr is a simple and bright colored book that reminds us that we are loved all the time, even when we are stinky or squeaky clean. The illustrations are elementary and meant to capture a young person’s attention. This book is positive and hopeful.

View all my reviews

I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of The I Love You Book by Todd Parr on Amazon.

~

My nana’s love for words empowered me to be able to learn what I want, when I want because I can pick up a book or google anything and learn how to do new things. Some times it takes a bit longer than reading a few words, but as soon as I start reading, I am on my way. I hope that I can encourage you to encourage someone else to learn to love words as much as I do.

Be blessed.

~

Feel free to leave your comments below!

My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Jesus Follower, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Jesus Follower…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.

Depression Cake

by Summer D Clemenson | May 29, 2025 | Food

This is a Depression Cake I feel like we should specify that it is a Chocolate Depression Cake, in case someone has a Depression Cake that is a different flavor. The recipe came out during The Great Depression; there is no dairy, eggs, or oil in it. I added a little cinnamon because I like cinnamon with chocolate. I have made this recipe more than once because the first time, the cake took much longer to cook than the directions said and it was so bland, I didn’t care for it.

I adjusted this recipe with ingredients people would have had during the time frame of the 1930’s and this cake is great. It is the consistency of brownies. You could frost it but I think it is sweet enough. I might try macerating fresh raspberries or strawberries sometime or do a light drizzle because the flavor of the cake is really nice and might get lost with frosting.

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cup All Purpose Flour
1 cup sugar
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking soda
3 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp salt
t tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp white vinegar
1 1/2 cup cold coffee

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit
Grease 8-9 inch pan.
In a large bowl add flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk well to combine.
Add vanilla, vinegar and coffee. Mix well.
Pour into pan.
Bake for 35-50 minutes. Cake will be chewy,

I really hope you enjoy this recipe. The original recipe called for water instead of coffee and I added the cinnamon and salt and increased the cocoa powder. These changes really brought out the chocolate flavor and made this desert very enjoyable.

~

Feel free to leave your comments below!

My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Jesus Follower, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Jesus Follower…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.

Book Review: The Pursuit of Happiness by Chris Gardner with Quincy Troupe

by Summer D Clemenson | May 21, 2025 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions

I bought The Pursuit of Happyness by Chris Gardner with Quincy Troupe at a discount with a pile of other media items I was buying on eBay. I had enjoyed the movie back when it came out and I thought that my wife and I would enjoy the book as a media tie in. Was I surprised that only about one quarter of this autobiography was actually in the movie. In fact I would not go so far to say they were the same productions. There is an amazing biography of Chris Gardner that you can read and there is a movie version that producers were willing to produce for Will Smith to star in. There are only about 300 pages in this memoir but you don’t want to miss anything. This is not a casual read, in my opinion. This is a growth journey you take with Chris starting from his childhood.

Even though Chris’ mother spent a lot of time in prison during his life, she also made a huge impact on his belief in himself. She made sure he could read and that he always had access to books.

Gardner was in his young teens when he and his friends were being bussed to a previously all white school on the other side of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where he was raised. Chris was aware of the civil rights march led by Martin Luther King Jr. in Selma, AL and Malcolm X being killed in Harlem. His response was to join the NAACP Youth Council.

Chris carried his belief in himself through his military service and through every business opportunity that led to his ultimate success. He didn’t let anyone but himself define who was. Even at his lowest moments, he learned what he needed and moved on. Eventually he became the owner of his own business with the success he had dreamed of.

I did watch the movie after I was done with the book. It is a good production and I appreciate the artistry of Smith and his son, but knowing that Chris actually accomplished everything he did with a baby in diapers makes this nonfiction success story so much more profound. If you haven’t read this book, I highly recommend it.

I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of The Pursuit of Happyness byChris Gardner with Quincy Troupe on Amazon.

Read My Review on GoodReads:

The Pursuit of Happyness by Chris Gardner
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Chris Gardner is an amazing man with a life story that is inspiring for all ages. If you think you enjoyed the cinema production, staring Will Smith, you have only heard a very small part of the story. For the full story, make sure to pick up a copy of The Pursuit of Happyness by Chris Gardner with Quincy Troupe. It is a powerful read.

View all my reviews

~

Feel free to leave your comments below!

My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Jesus Follower, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Jesus Follower…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.

5 Books for April 2025

by Summer D Clemenson | Apr 25, 2025 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions

Reading is a great way to build our character and knowledge base. It is an excellent way to build community and relationship, whether you are reading to children or sharing books with your friends, you are sharing parts of yourself with someone. In the chaos of the world the quiet you can find in a book is so important to our mental and spiritual health. I hope you can find time for that. When I am super blue, I know I have waited too long time get lost in words.

Now without further ado 5 Books for April 2025:

~

Little Blue Truck Leads the Way by Alice Schertle

Little Blue Truck Leads the Way by Alice Schertle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In the story Little Blue Truck Leads the Way by Alice Schertle, Little Blue took a trip to the city where things are bigger and faster. Everyone was frustrated that Little Blue was not so fast but he reminded them all that with transport, one at a time was a must. When the mayor’s limousine needed repairs, Little Blue gave the mayor a ride before he headed on home.

The colorful illustrations by Jill McElmurry give lots of opportunities to work on vocabulary with your children in this board book.

I got this picture book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Little Blue Truck Leads the Way by Alice Schertle on Amazon.

~

Father Bear Comes Home by Else Holmelund Minarik

Father Bear Comes Home by Else Holmelund Minarik
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Father Bear Comes Home by Else Holmelund Minarik is a wonderful collection of 4 family stories: 1) Little Bear and Owl, 2) Father Bear Comes Home, 3) Hiccups and 4) Little Bear’s Mermaid. Out of all the stories in this book, Little Bear and Owl is my favorite because Little Bear gets to help Mother Bear do something that Father Bear usually does. Right now, Father Bear is away at sea, fishing, so Little Bear gets to go to the river and be a fisherman. When he gets there, he finds Owl. They pretend to catch an octopus and a small whale, but really Little Bear caught a small fish, which is exactly what Mother Bear wanted.

The rest of the fiction stories are related to Father Bear coming home and the fun that Little Bear has with his friends.

The illustrations are simple and classic and add to the nostalgia of these stories. I had this book as a child and I am enjoying them again.

I got this adorable book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Father Bear Comes Home by Else Holmelund Minarik on Amazon.

~

Frog and Toad Together by Arnold Lobel

Frog and toad together / by Arnold Lobel by Arnold Lobel
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Frog and Toad by Arnold Lobel is a sweet collection of 5 short stories about Frog and Toad. These fantasy stories include: 1) A List, 2) The Garden, 3) Cookies, 4) Dragons and Giants, and 5) The Dream. After reading all the stories, my all time favorite is Cookies. My best friends and sister, Jamie Holloway and I love to cook and eat and this story reminds me us trying to have self-control, or will power as Frog and Toad call it. The boys give it their all but finally offer the rest of their cookies to the birds. However, Toad, who made the cookies, decides that he doesn’t like all this will power, and he decides to go home to bake a cake.

These two friends are as supportive of each other as they can be. This story shows how creative they were to make good choices about not over-eating and being helpful with each other. I think this a great story time book.

I got this book from my own personal collection. You can get your own copy of Frog and Toad by Arnold Lobel on Amazon.

~

Curious George Learns the Alphabet by H. A. Rey

Curious George Learns the Alphabet by H.A. Rey
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Curious George is a monkey known for getting into mischief and having adventures but this story, Curious George Learns the Alphabet by H. A. Rey is pretty mild. In fact, it was so long, I should have taken a break. The alphabet can be tedious to learn in one sitting and even Curious George, The Man in the Yellow Hat and all the animals didn’t make it very fun for me.

I got this book from my own personal collection. You can get your own copy of Curious George Learns the Alphabet by H. A. Rey on Amazon.

~

In the Night Garden by Carin Berger

In the Night Garden by Carin Berger is an amazing book with captivating poetry. I have read this book before and had to add it to my personal collection. I imagine if my Nana, who loved to read stories to her grandchildren, were still with us, she would love to look at the amazing collage like art and let the beautiful words dance on her tongue. She would have loved this book as much as I do.

This one is worth owning and sharing.

I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of In the Night Garden by Carin Berger on Amazon.

This is my original review on GoodReads:

In the Night Garden by Carin Berger
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved this book! It was relaxing but inspiring. The art seemed like it should be multi-dimensional. I think I will be adding In The Night Garden by Carin Berger to my personal collection.

View all my reviews

~

With the climate of political, financial and civil unrest our world is in, I want to encourage you to find peace anywhere you can find it. These books brought me moments of joy and peace. I encourage you to find something that helps you find those things too. I hope you enjoyed this book reviews and maybe you have some of your own. If you want to suggest or share some of your own, Please Contact Me.

Be blessed.

~

Feel free to leave your comments below!

My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Jesus Follower, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Jesus Follower…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.

5 Books for March 2025

by Summer D Clemenson | Apr 18, 2025 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions

March went by so fast, I forgot to post my children’s books for the month, but doesn’t mean I didn’t read them. I did.

Now without further ado 5 Books for March 2025:

Little Blue Truck by Alice Schertle

Little Blue Truck by Alice Schertle
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Little Blue Truck by Alice Schertle is a picture book about friends. Little Blue Truck is friends with all the animals on the farm and this really comes in handy when he gets stuck in the mud and teaches the not so friendly dump truck the importance of being kind.

The charming illustrations by Jill McElmurry really make this transport book fun. I think this cardboard book is perfect for story time or just talking about the animals, colors, trucks and nature.

I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Little Blue Truck by Alice Schertle on Amazon.

~

Little Bear’s Visit by Else Holmelund Minarik

Little Bear’s Visit by Else Holmelund Minarik
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Little Bear’s Visit by Else Holmelund Minarik is a wonderful read. I have read it before, as a child, and it was nice to be reminded of this family classic. This book has 4 stories in it: 1) Grandmother and Grandfather Bear 2) Mother Bear’s Robin 3) Golden Story 4) Not Tired.

I must say Mother Bear’s Robin is my favorite because Mother Bear had raised her bird but she knew she had to let it go in order for it to be happy. Even though she loved the bird and the bird loved her, the bird was meant to live outside as before. This is an important lesson for us all to learn.

The illustrations by Maurice Sendak are beautiful, yet simple. I think this fiction story is perfect for bedtime routines.

I got this adorable book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Little Bear’s Visit by Else Holmelund Minarik on Amazon.

~

Corduroy’s Easter Party by Grosset & Dunlap, Publishers

Corduroy’s Easter Party by Don Freeman
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Unlike most other Corduroy children’s stories, Corduroy’s Easter Party by Grosset & Dunlap, Publishers, did not include his normal adventures or Lisa, Corduroy’s best friend. I missed both. It was nice that Corduroy could have a nice time preparing for an Easter holiday party but this story just doesn’t have the same magic that most stories based on the character created by Don Freeman have.

The Illustrations by Lisa McCue are well-polished but maybe too polished for a traditional Corduroy adventure.

I got this book from my own personal collection. You can get your own copy of Corduroy’s Easter Party by Grosset & Dunlap, Publishers on Amazon.

~

Babar the King by Jean De Brunhoff

Babar the King by Jean de Brunhoff
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

I really want to like the fantasy story, Babar the King by Jean De Brunhoff but I don’t. It is a very long story about an elephant society and their king and I can’t imagine getting a child to sit through all the crazy (and not in a good way) things that happen in this book. The illustrations are attractive but the story line about building their kingdom is completely unbelievable.

I got this book from my own personal collection. You can get your own copy of Babar the King by Jean De Brunhoff on Amazon.

~

Disney Bedtime Favorites by Disney Press

Disney Bedtime Favorites by Walt Disney Company
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

My sister Jamie Holloway gave me this Disney Bedtime Favorites by Disney Press full of bedtime story time. I enjoyed them all. This book has 18 short stories in all:

Bedtime for Max by Rebecca Smidt – based on characters from Tangled
Good Night Thumper by Megan Ilnitzki – based on characters from Bambi
The Spooky Sleepover by Kim Ostrow – based on characters from Monsters, Inc
Nighttime of Fires by Gail Herman – based on characters from Big Hero 6
Sweet Dreams at Last by Lara Bergan – based on characters from The Little Mermaid
Power Outage by Rebecca Smidt – based on characters from Wreck it Ralph
The Big Campout by Wendy Loggia – based on characters from Toy Story 3
Piglet’s Night Lights by Lara Bergen – based on characters from Winnie the Pooh by A.A. Milne and E.H. Shepherd
A Trusty Babysitter by Lara Bergen – based on characters from Lady and the Tramp
Captain Hooks’s Shadow by Jasmine Jones – based on characters from Peter Pan
Night Games by Elizabeth Rudnick – based on characters from Finding Nemo
Watch Dug by Jennifer Arena – based on characters from Up
Aurora’s Slumber Party by Mary Man-Kong – based on characters from Sleeping Beauty
A Wild Night Out by Lara Bergen – based on characters from The Lion King
Thunderbolt Patch by Melissa Lagonegro – based on characters from One Hundred and One Dalmatians
Mowgli’s Great Story by Suzanne Francis – based on characters from The Jungle Book
Mickey’s Campout by Megan Bryant – originally published in Mickey and Minnie’s Storybook Collection, 2015
The Light-Up Night by Ellie O’Ryan – based on characters from Bambi

My favorite story has to be The Light-Up Night by Ellie O’Ryan. The characters from Bambi come to life as it is just about bed time for everyone except Owl. He is nocturnal, which means he sleeps during the day and hunts at night. He is excited because tonight there should shooting stars. When he shares this with young Bambi and Thumper they want to see the shooting stars too. They have never seen shooting stars before. After Owl promises to keep the boys safe, the trio head off to the meadow. On their way they see fireflies. Those are not shooting stars. When they get to the meadow, it begins to rain and they also see and hear lightening and thunder. This is not shooting stars. When the rain stops, finally the sky is filled with sparks of light. Bambi and Thumper are so excited to finally see shooting stars, that when they are done, they are sad. But when they time is right, they will be able to see more shooting stars.

View all my reviews

I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Disney Bedtime Favorites by Disney Press on Amazon.

~

I hope you enjoyed this book reviews and maybe you have some of your own. If you want to suggest or share some of your own, Please Contact Me.

Be blessed.

~

Feel free to leave your comments below!

My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Jesus Follower, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Jesus Follower…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.

Oh BTW I beat cancer!

Feel free to leave your comments below!

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The Day the Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt

It’s Ok to Be Different by Todd Parr

Iggy Peck, Architect by Andrea Beaty

The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn

Armadillo Rodeo by Jan Brett

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The Rising Strong Process

Elements of Grief

Books mentioned:

Read My Review on GoodReads:

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The Underwear Book by Todd Parr

Heather Has Two Mommies by Leslea Newman

Walter the Farting Dog by William Kotzwinkle and Glenn Murray

The Boy Who Cried Fabulous by Leslea Newman

The Peace Book by Todd Parr

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Read My Review on GoodReads:

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My Hair is a Book by Maisha Oso

This Story is Not About a Kitten by Randall de Seve and Carson Ellis

Wake Up Moon! by Lita Judge

The Walrus and the Caribou by Maika Harper

Ralph Tells A Story by Abby Hanlon

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King Alice by Matthew Cordell

Cinnamon Bun, I Love You 1 by Amy Schwartz

The Red Canoe by Anne Yvonne

Sofia Valdez Future Prez by Andrea Beaty

Letters from Space by Clayton Anderson

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A Fire Engine for Ruthie by Leslea Newman

Frog and Toad All Year by Arnold Lobel

Little Blue Truck’s Halloween by Alice Schertle

Little Bear’s Friend by Else Holmelund Minarik

The I Love You Book by Todd Parr

Feel free to leave your comments below!

Ingredients:

Directions:

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Read My Review on GoodReads:

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Little Blue Truck Leads the Way by Alice Schertle

Father Bear Comes Home by Else Holmelund Minarik

Frog and Toad Together by Arnold Lobel

Curious George Learns the Alphabet by H. A. Rey

In the Night Garden by Carin Berger

This is my original review on GoodReads:

Feel free to leave your comments below!

Little Blue Truck by Alice Schertle

Little Bear’s Visit by Else Holmelund Minarik

Corduroy’s Easter Party by Grosset & Dunlap, Publishers

Babar the King by Jean De Brunhoff

Disney Bedtime Favorites by Disney Press

Feel free to leave your comments below!