Saturday Smiles

On Saturdays I post about a couple of things that make me smile.

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1) The Dragons of Ordinary Farm by Tad Williams & Deborah Beale

From Here: Tyler and Lucinda have to spend summer vacation with their ancient uncle Gideon, a farmer. They think they’re in for six weeks of cows, sheep, horses, and pigs. But when they arrive in deserted Standard Valley, California, they discover that Ordinary Farm is, well, no ordinary farm.The bellowing in the barn comes not from a cow but from a dragon. The thundering herd in the valley? Unicorns. Uncle Gideon’s sprawling farmhouse never looks the same twice. Plus, there’s a flying monkey, a demon squirrel, and a barnload of unlikely farmhands with strange accents and even stranger powers.At first, the whole place seems like a crazy adventure. But when darker secrets begin to surface and Uncle Gideon and his fabulous creatures are threatened, Lucinda and Tyler have to pull together to take action. Will two ordinary kids be able to save the dragons, the farm – and themselves?

I thoroughly enjoyed this fun romp through fantasy land. Yes, there were some freaky/scary things going on, but the silliness made the book a delight. The absurdity and zaniness reminded me of the Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle books. The book is richer, more detailed and more complete. The mystery is light, but persistent and the hunt for answers is well worth the time.

2) Chocolate chip cookies

I specifically love the ones made by McDonald's; however, I'll eat any chocolate chip cookie. I prefer soft centers with a touch of crispy on the outside.

3) The children's program at our church

Our girls like going to church. They don't try to beg out of church, they don't whine and fuss when it's time for them to go downstairs with the other kids. They love the children's time during the main worship service and they understand what Miss Emily is saying to them. They are both pretty serious about God and ask me some pretty amazing questions.