Simple Pleasures of Christmas

Even dry, tar roads can't dampen the holiday spirit circulating among the outdoor spectators inhaling the unseasonably warm, night air. Counting down the days to Christmas on one hand, temperatures in many parts poorly reflex the long awaited special occasion children impatiently yearn for each year.

Whether an individual residence is New Hampshire or Florida, or perhaps somewhere in-between, most people embrace the simple pleasures of Christmas. A blanket of snow glistens with sparkling beauty, but its absence can be overcome in the form of shimmering lights that may blink and take on their own spectacular form. When night falls, bold outlines running along a cluster of homes and trees can become a breathe taking sight. The smiles and wide-eyed expressions quickly turn a simple ride through the neighborhood or town park into an adventure for its viewers.

For the ones who give their time and money to decorate buildings and set up those wonderful ground displays, the results are often priceless. Lifting the spirits of so many, a ordinary Christmas season may become  brighter when creating new memories from holidays lights.  

From the author of Christmas at the Claus House

http://www.amazon.com/Christmas-Claus-House-Saving-Clara-ebook/dp/B014LQ1QC4  

Christmas at the Claus House - For Santa lovers everywhere

For Santa lovers everywhere, order this exciting story for the holidays. It emphasizes the meaning of Christmas and the importance of caring for one another and the need to be together on this special day. Available in print and eBook:

http://www.amazon.com/Christmas-Claus-House-Saving-Clara-ebook/dp/B014LQ1QC4

"He’s magical, jolly, and known for his “Ho! Ho! Ho!” That softhearted man in the red suit can only be Santa himself. Delivering a sleigh full of presents, he travels around the world every Christmas Eve. 

It’s December 24th, Santa is reading children’s letters and the elves are busy making toys. Angelo the lead stable elf runs into the study with terrible news. “Santa, your smallest deer Clara is truly sick! I found her lying on the haystack. She needs you to come quickly!” 

Clara was almost lifeless with a high fever. She complained of a pain in her right side. Is it too late to save her? What will Santa do, and will the presents get delivered on time?"

Caring for Animals in Distress

   Meet Dr. Aw Choo. He is a mild-mannered, caring young man. Even when far from his Eskimo village, this vet would always care for any animal found in distress.

   Santa watched him examine Clara. He knew she was in capable hands.

   Dr. Aw Choo press on her stomach and she surprised him with a "yelp." He felt the tender area once more. "I'm afraid her appendix must come out."

   Will the veterinarian save Clara deer, and can Santa return to deliver the presents on time? Order this wonderful Christmas story for your holiday reading pleasure. Available in eBook and print

    http://www.amazon.com/Christmas-Claus-House-Saving-Clara-ebook/dp/B014LQ1QC4

     christmas at the claus house | Barnes & Noble

barnesandnoble.com  

  Visit me at  

  http://www.authornancymrollins.blogspot.com 

   

Kitchen Elf in Us All

"May I assist you in the kitchen?" asks a spunky, pointed-eared elf.  He rolls out dough for sugar cookies, pressing Christmas shapes with cookie cutters brought from the North Pole.

The magical month of December creates thoughtful elves out of us all.  Influenced by an array of holiday music, twinkling lights, and ornaments dangling on trees, the joyful season is shared. 

Hear the jiggle! Arriving by six-foot sleigh, could that be Santa Claus?  Don't forget to leave some fresh baked cookies, perhaps one for each reindeer too.

 Make someone's day a little sweeter, create your own holiday treat.

From the book : Christmas at the Claus House

   Mrs. Claus is cooking in the kitchen. she is a busy lady too.  Rolling out dough for Christmas cookies, batter fills every mixing bowl that comes off the shelf.

   "Can I help decorate the cookies?" asked charming Isabel elf.  Isabel, who also fancies baking, has been appointed an assistant to Mrs. Claus. 

   Children, and those young at heart will love CHRISTMAS AT THE CLAUS HOUSE.  Is it too late to save the smallest deer Clara?  What will Santa do, and will the presents get delivered on time?

   Order this exciting holiday tale that emphasizes the meaning of Christmas and the need to be together on this special day.  Available on Amazon, B&N, Kobo, and many online booksellers.  EBook - $2.99 and Print - $9.98. Everyone enjoys a good book, could this be yours? 

christmas at the claus house | Barnes & Noble

barnesandnoble.com

A Gift is Life's little Blessings

Every person has their own special gift. Once that ability is shared, we truly have created magic. Not all people discover how important they are. One selfless act, can make a difference to another. Whether our talents are social skills and volunteering our time, sewing, painting a portrait, or singing in a choir, life's little blessings are meaningful. Often, payment is expressed in the form of a priceless smile.

Three years ago, I uncovered an interest in graphic design that I did not realized was there. For me, creating backgrounds became a relaxing playtime, such as puzzles or computer games for someone else. What I believed was a simple pastime, took a friend to open my eyes to possibilities these designs could bring. 

 So far, mainly designing as Christmas gifts, the mugs took on life. Showing off her mug is my lovely, lady hairdresser, Lillian. Naturally gifted at her craft, she makes each client feel like her favorite customer. The 15 inch coffee mug turned into a fine tribute, and brought a happy tear.

Little things we do, can make a big impact. Talents are gifts that are meant to be shared. Have you discovered yours?       

     

Author Nancy M. Rollins: Letter to Santa

Author Nancy M. Rollins: Letter to Santa: Young children tend to be very honest and say whatever is on their minds. There's no holding back for most of them, and that can be adorable or a nightmare, depending on the topic at hand. Santa is holding a letter written by a mischievous lad. The child has come forward and admitted many wrongs he had done. Will he still receive the items he wanted? Is he considered naughty or nice? Look for the answer inside the book.

With October days quickly dwindling down, it won't be long before children start thinking about Christmas and new toys. Many children write letters to Santa Claus or St. Nick, called by others. In my opinion, there are benefits in these yearly letters. The knowledge gained in the writing process can be educational, and the dream sparks that special excitement that comes only on Christmas Day.

Christmas at the Claus House ~ Saving Clara Deer comes in eBook and print. Purchase it online at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, Books a Million, Smashwords, CreateSpace, and other common sites.           

Letter to Santa

Young children tend to be very honest and say whatever is on their minds. There's no holding back for most of them, and that can be adorable or a nightmare, depending on the topic at hand. Santa is holding a letter written by a mischievous lad. The child has come forward and admitted many wrongs he had done. Will he still receive the items he wanted? Is he considered naughty or nice? Look for the answer inside the book.

With October days quickly dwindling down, it won't be long before children start thinking about Christmas and new toys. Many children write letters to Santa Claus or St. Nick, called by others. In my opinion, there are benefits in these yearly letters. The knowledge gained in the writing process can be educational, and the dream sparks that special excitement that comes only on Christmas Day.

Christmas at the Claus House ~ Saving Clara Deer comes in eBook and print. Purchase it online at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, KOBO, Books a Million, Smashwords, CreateSpace, and other common sites.          

Capturing Those Moments:

 

 

Time is precious, and certainly are the children in our lives. With the years passing so quickly, it is easy to miss how much one does change.

 

For some, Photography can become a hobby that could be fun to do. Although considering myself only on an amateur level, taking photos can open a whole new world for those who are willing to try.

 

Today, those great shots have never been easier. Many cell phones have built in cameras. Posing for a Selfie may give anyone a case of the giggles. Keep it or tap delete.

 

I use a camera with a zoom lens for those up close shots. It may take several tries, but with practice and determination, you may surprise yourself.

 

What I love about being behind a camera, photos can be on any category I choose. Whether it’s the grandchildren, wildlife, or a bowl of fruit, photos are a wonderful way to fill an album or decorate the walls.

 

Capturing those special moments with Photography, leads to memories we are unlikely to forget.

 

 

 

Trick or Treat Temptations

Care for a candy eyeball anyone? So, you think all that early candy we buy will stay in the jar until Halloween? Like most homes, very doubtful!

Let's look at it this way. Every time we pass the candy dish, it is there, practically calling our names. "Only take one little piece. It won't hurt."

The trouble is, when we pass the candy dish fifteen times that day, at least fifteen irresistible pieces are missing. By the end of the day, you are shaking your head to see the large dent and thinking now I will need to purchase more. Well, who can resist chocolate? I don't even need to look at it to know it is there.

The best way I found around this tasty dilemma, either pick up the candy the day before Halloween and hope a good assortment is left or only purchase the types of candy children and not I will eat.

Could the sugar and calories be the trick to the treat?

Holiday Fun

October reminds us the holidays are coming. Hoping no one will noticed, soon the goblins, turkeys, and reindeer sneak quietly by.  The first, up to mischief, the second, trying to escape, but the best saved for last, a team to pull Santa's sleigh.

Whether it is Halloween, Thanksgiving, or Christmas Eve, each occasion gives us a chance to create special memories.  So celebrate with a neighbor and share a treat with your friend. It's a time to catch up on holiday fun for all children of any age.

The Fun of Graphic Designs - About the Author

These days I find myself bouncing between hobbies.  Knowing my younger years are behind me, and the midlife period is swiftly running out. I truthfully joke when I say there will be a lot to squeeze in for the next thirty years. Some call it the bucket list, and I am happy to admit mine is rather long.  I think for many of us, dreams can be fulfilled if we keep trying. A designer mug could turn into one possibility for me.

By accident I found I had some natural ability for graphic design, but first I must start at the beginning.  The dust on a pile of old, unpublished manuscripts gives away the length of time I sat behind the keyboard.  With the bulk of my work consisting of picture books, to save money I drew the illustrations myself.  One day while looking over a drawing, I decided to add a background to appear more like walls inside a house.  What took me by surprise, I actually enjoyed making backdrops. So I added them to other pages as well.  Suddenly, I did not want to stop with these graphic design ideas, it was becoming fun. I immediately put all writing projects aside for the next three months.

Three years ago, was when I made my first background design for a manuscript.  Now there are hundreds of sample designs. Experimenting on ideas for stationery, backdrops, notebook covers, cloth, mugs and a array of various other items, graphic designs has turned into a wonderful hobby.  It has become a close second pastime to my love of writing.  I foresee a future website and plans to make this another career.

A Future Star : Meet Jodi

  For all you dog lovers, I wanted to introduce Jodi.  This is my two year old, Golden Retriever.  She is getting ready for her first debut.  Coming in 2016, she will be featured in my next book A GOLDEN RETRIEVER'S FIRST YEAR. 
  The picture book was based on the Golden Retriever breed.  Jodi's stages of growth are amusingly captured, making her my star.
 This nonfiction photobook was written for the new or the very young pet owner. Its unique educational style, will have readers reaching for their copy. Look for other photos or updates soon. 

The Christmas Surprise

  A family of seven was sitting around the kitchen table, having Christmas morning breakfast. It sounded like a knock coming from outside. When the father opened the front door, but no one was there.  He glanced down and to his surprised, found a wrapped package lying on the porch floor.  He picked it up and handed the unlabeled box to his wife. Everyone’s eyes shifted curiously to the package, wondering what it could be and why was it left by the door?

  The older son whispered to his brother, “Maybe Grandma baked more cookies and she didn’t want to wake us up.”

  As the wrapping paper dropped onto the floor, the chatter in the room ceased and all eyes sparkled. The mother opened the box, pulled out a pink quilt and raised it high for everyone to see.

The two younger sons exchanged disappointing looks, they were secretly hoping for games or more Christmas toys.

  Their five-year-old sister stared at the pink quilt wide eyed, and then put down her doll. She suddenly shouted, excitedly. “Mom, it wasn’t a dream!”

  She jumped up, ran over to her mother and hugged the quilt. “I thought I had been dreaming it, but now I know that Santa is real!

  “What are you talking about honey?” Her mother asked.

  “Last night when Santa tiptoed into my room, he noticed that I was awake. He asked me if I was cold. I told him that I was because my blanket is very thin. He promised to send me a warm quilt. He didn’t forget.” She sobbed with joy.

  The family looked at each other nearly in disbelief. “That’s nonsense.” The father said.

  The mother looked down at the quilt in her daughter’s arms and noticed a small tag that was attached to the corner of it. Tears suddenly welled up in her eyes; she turned to her husband and said, “Look!”

  He read the handwritten note out loud, “Quilted by Mrs. Claus.”

  The family gathered around the little girl and they gave each other a hug. This very special gift made it the best Christmas ever. "Thank you, Mr. and Mrs. Claus."

The Claus House

Christmas is a busy time at the Claus House

Available:

AMAZON

SMASHWORDS

BARNES & NOBLE

Mrs. Claus is cooking in the kitchen.  She is a busy lady too. Rolling out dough for Christmas cookies, batter fills every mixing bowl that comes off the shelf.

“Can I help decorate the cookies?” asked charming Isabel elf. Isabel, who also fancies baking, has been appointed an assistant to Mrs. Claus.

When the Idea Turns Into a Book

First it starts with an idea, and turns into an outline. Through baby steps, constructing a child's picture book begins. The words fill the first few pages, but stop in the middle of the story. This writer's thoughts go blank. So searching for further inspiration, prayers are answered in the form of music and soft Christmas toys that talk or dance. Finally the last line has been written, and there comes a deep restful breath. The manuscript is far from finished, the author has only reached step two.

She reads the manuscript over and over, but some paragraphs don't sound quite right. Now this story goes through many changes, authors well know as rewrites. The writer may test the material out on her children, or perhaps share it with a friend. The progress may move even slower, as she approaches step three.

Big decisions must be made. Does she draw her own pictures, or hire a illustrator? Maybe try her luck with a traditional publisher, and not draw at all. Each option easily comes with its own pros and cons. Before money is wasted on postage, from manuscripts return. It may be best to hire a editor, and another to proof read your book. Now step five is when you read your own words in eBooks or print.

Now I am moving forward with these baby steps of mine. As a new author there is so much to learn. For those who are interested, I will share this long path with you. My goal is to share future books with the public, and maybe place a smile on a young reader's face.

My first book

Available:

AMAZON

SMASHWORDS

BARNES & NOBLE

It's so Exciting! My Very First Book is Published!

Welcome everyone to my first blog

CHRISTMAS AT THE CLAUS HOUSE-SAVING CLARA DEER is the first of many future books I hope to feature here. I am an inspiring writer who wishes to turn a hobby into a lasting career. With the help of Publishing Coach Erika M Szabo of Golden Box Books, I am off to a good start. A dream is in all of us, it is a shame to let it go.
~Nancy M. Rollins

Ebooks are available:

AMAZON

SMASHWORDS

Coming soon to other publishing sites and  in print

He’s magical, jolly, and known for his “Ho! Ho! Ho!” That softhearted man in the red suit can only be Santa himself. Delivering a sleigh full of presents, he travels around the world every Christmas Eve.

It’s December 24th, Santa is reading children’s letters and the elves are busy making toys. Angelo the lead stable elf runs into the study with terrible news. “Santa, your smallest deer Clara is truly sick! I found her lying on the haystack. She needs you to come quickly!”

Clara was almost lifeless with a high fever. She complained of a pain in her right side. Is it too late to save her? What will Santa do, and will the presents get delivered on time?

Christmas at The Claus House ~ Saving Clara Deer, is an exciting story for the holidays. It emphasizes the meaning of Christmas and the importance of caring for one another and the need to be together on this special day.

Christmas at The Claus House

Children's book by Nancy M. Rollins

Coming soon in eBook and print

He’s magical, jolly, and known for his “Ho! Ho! Ho!”  That soft-hearted man in the red suit can only be Santa himself.  Delivering a sleigh full of presents, he travels every Christmas Eve.  He fulfills children’s wishes from the incoming mail he receives. CHRISTMAS AT THE CLAUS HOUSE ~ SAVING CLARA DEER is an exciting story for the holidays.  It emphasizes the meaning of Christmas and being together for this special day. It’s December 24th, Santa is reading children’s letters and the elves are busy making toys. Suddenly, Angelo the lead stable elf runs into the study.  “Your smallest deer Clara is truly sick!  I found her lying on the haystack.  Santa, she needs you to come quick!” Fever had taken over.  Clara nearly lifeless, the pain in her right side ached.  Is it too late to save her?  What will Santa do, and will the presents get delivered on time?