Tuesday, December 31, 2013

Happy New Year 2014



As 2013 ends and 2014 begins I wish you all the joy, health, and success that this world has to offer throughout 2014 and beyond. Of course, heartaches and adversity are part of our journey and it's important we focus on the positives that are bestowed us. Celebrate each success and enjoy your life!

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Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
Connect with

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.

Hockey Agony ~ January 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.

The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist











Tuesday, December 24, 2013

Merry Christmas


Wishing one and all a joyous Christmas and Happy New Year! 




~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
Connect with

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.

Hockey Agony ~ January 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.

The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist











Tuesday, December 17, 2013

Amazon Best-selling author, Nancy Stewart reviews Hockey Agony by Donna McDine

I invite you to visit Amazon best-selling author, Nancy Stewart as she shares her review of my children's book, Hockey Agony http://nancystewartbooks.blogspot.com/2013/12/review-of-hockey-agony-by-donna-mcdine.html.

Thanks Nancy! You captured the true essence of Hockey Agony through your review!

Be sure to stick around to explore Nancy's blog of informative articles and to learn about her fascinating writing career through her books…

One Pelican at a Time: A Story of the Gulf Oil Spill, 18 weeks on Amazon Bestseller in Children's Books, Amazon Hot New Releases, Amazon Most Wished for in Children's Books, The Literary Classics Silver Award, 2012, Literary Classics Seal of Approval, Global eBook Award Nominee, Readers Favorite 5 Star Award (Guardian Angel Publishing, 2011)

Sea Turtle SummerAmazon Bestseller in Children's Books, The Literary Classics Gold Award, 2012, Literary Classics Seal of Approval, 2011 (Guardian Angel Publishing, December, 2011)

Katrina and Winter: Partners in Courage: Amazon Bestseller in Children’s Books, International Literary Classics Silver Award, 2013 (Guardian Angel Publishing, May, 2012)

Bella Saves the Beach:  International Literary Classics Seal of Approval, 2013 (Guardian Angel Publishing, March, 2013)

Forthcoming:
Mystery at Manatee Key: (Guardian Angel Publishing, October, 2014)

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Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
Connect with

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.

Hockey Agony ~ January 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.

The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist











Thursday, December 12, 2013

Had a Blast on the Saturday Cafe with Laura Smith

I previously announced my visit to WABC studios when the charming Laura Smith invited me to appear on her radio show Saturday Cafe. I'm over the moon to share with you all the details and link to the telecast.

November 30th, 2013
11/30/13
It’s the weekend after Thanksgiving, Laura tells us everything she’s thankful for. Joining her in studio today to talk about what their grateful for are: 

  • New York’s own Miss America, Miss Nina Davaluri is live dishing on her life in the pageant, the controversy over her ethnicity as well as her daily life as she strives to become a doctor
  • Children’s Author, Donna McDine, lets us know what exactly does it take to write for children, educating them while entertaining the kids is not an easy thing
  • Nash’s own Kellie Ford, joins Laura once again to talk about the upcoming concert with Nash FM
  • Danielle Gletow, nominee for CNN’s Heroes, founder of One Simple Wish, and foster parent joins us to tell us why she’s considered a Hero. Listen to this heart warming story and find out how you can get involved with this wonderful organization
  • John Murphy is the "Zentrepreneur" and takes Zen principles into Fortune 500 companies and transforms corporate culture. His new book, "Zentrepreneur--Get Out of The Way and Lead" is leading the way into a new paradigm for big corporations.
All this tonight in The Café with Laura Smith.

Thanks for Laura! I had a wonderful time!

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Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author

Connect with

A Sandy Grave ~ coming January 2014 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.

Hockey Agony ~ January 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.

The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist











Tuesday, December 10, 2013

Check out my new author Android App

How cool is this! Check out my new author Android App - custom designed by Nate Chambers through the PPC December Promo Deal with Jo-Anne Vandermeulen!




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Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author

Connect with

A Sandy Grave ~ Coming January 2014 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.

Hockey Agony ~ January 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.

The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist











Wednesday, December 4, 2013

Children's Magazine - Guardian Angel Kids - December 2013


December 2013 

BOOK FEATURE
Tales From Kensington Forest 
POEM
The Giving Fever by Robert Niven
Think by Sarah Varnam
SHORT STORIES
A New Kind of Club by Trisha Faye
Good Neighbor Love by Evelyn Horan
A Helping Hand by Felicity Nisbet
NON-FICTION ARTICLE
Freedoms Even Kids Have by Shari L. Klase
PARENT TEACHER ARTICLE
Instilling an Attitude of Gratitude
by Irene S. Roth

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Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
Connect with

A Sandy Grave ~ Coming January 2014 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.

Hockey Agony ~ January 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.

The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist











Tuesday, December 3, 2013

Best-selling Author, Kai Strand Visits Write What Inspires You!


I  recently had the chance to chat with Kai Strand and asked, “What is your favorite swag you've offered to a fan?” She answered: “I was especially thrilled with the pillows I made for King of Bad. I made one with fire fabric and the other with a pretty ice blue fabric that looked like frost – complete with tassels. I’m not a seamstress so anytime something I sew turns out halfway decent, I’m excited.”  Now, hop on over to Kai Strand, Authors Page to see my answer to this question.

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Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
Connect with


A Sandy Grave ~ Coming January 2014 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.

Hockey Agony ~ January 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.

The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist











Friday, November 29, 2013

Book Review ~ Silence written and illustrated by K.C. Snider


Silence by K.C. Snider is an incredible illustrated book without words providing the glorious opportunity to change the story each time.

Anything is but silent of the featured golden-mantled ground squirrel. K.C. Snider brings to life the day-to-day adventures through her magnificent illustrations making the reader fully immersed in the story, often times feeling as if they are part of the story. The illustrations are completed with such precision they often look like flawless photographs.

Enjoy the journey of storytelling of what happens next for each sit down will be different from the last. Your child’s and your own imagination will abound with endless possibilities.

K.C. Snider resides in Redmond, Oregon with her husband and with the backdrop of the Oregon Cascade Mountains it’s no wonder the beauty of Snider’s artwork spill from the pages.

Learn more about K.C. Snider’s colorful world at www.kcsniderart.com.
  
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Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
Connect with

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.

Hockey Agony ~ January 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.

The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist











Thursday, November 28, 2013

Celebrate Thanksgiving with Gratitude


Since I began blogging in 2007 my tradition for Thanksgiving is to share a prayer and as I reflect on the last year I'd like to share my gratitude of my blessings. 


I'm grateful for…


My husband Tom and daughter's Nicole and Hayley - your unconditional love and support from day one is a true blessing and I love you all up the stars and beyond.

My family and friends - from childhood and now adulthood the adventure continues, I'm honored to be part of each of your lives.

My health and that of my family and friends. Thoughts and prayers continue for all. 

My critique partners, Karin and Marilyn - your guidance has been instrumental in my success and I look forward to our publication journeys.

My publisher, Lynda Burch of Guardian Angel Publishing  and fellow "Angels" - the family atmosphere is an honor to be part of.

My fellow writing friends, many of you I have not met in person, but you all hold a special place in my heart. The exchange of ideas is constant source of encouragement.

The publication of Hockey Agony and Powder Monkey.

My boss, Thomas John and his family and friends - who have welcomed 
me into his and their lives with open arms.

Wishing you all a Blessed Thanksgiving! 

I'd be honored to hear about your gratitudes!


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Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
Connect with

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.

Hockey Agony ~ January 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.

The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist











Tuesday, November 26, 2013

Time Management Tips for Moms Over 40 by Tiffany Faming

By RLHyde via Flickr (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Whether they are young or old, having children of any age can be incredibly time consuming. This can leave moms feeling as though staying on top of things is almost impossible. However, by utilizing these simple tips for time management, even the craziest schedules can be maintained.
  
1.  Asses Your Time
This is the beginning step when initially setting up time management skills. Take a good look at your schedule and determine what tasks can be reduced, and which ones can be eliminated completely. You’d be surprised how many tasks are taking up valuable time but aren’t actually necessary. At this point in time you can also prioritize your time; figuring out what tasks need to be finished immediately and which tasks you can be leisure about, seeing as how they aren’t due until later in the month.

 By normalityrelief via Flickr (CC BY-SA 2.0)

2.  Organization is Key
There are a few key factors when it comes to organizing that you need to think about. First and foremost, keep organized in the home. Always put things back where they belong to reduce clutter, as clutter can not only be a stressor but can also slow you down.

If you don’t have enough space to organize all of your belongings, take advantage of the next step of organizing: storage bins. You can use big bins for items you don’t need to go in the garage, and smaller bins to put in the closet so you can use them when necessary.

Lastly, keep your entire schedule organized using a planner or calendar. Knowing your daily routine and important activities ahead of time will make your entire day run smoother. You’ll also be able to let your kids know when an event is coming so they can get prepared ahead of time, instead of minutes before, leaving you to rush out the door.

3.  Get Help
This particular time management tip for moms can really only be used with older children, although you can start integrating this tip with younger kids by the age of 2. This tip is simple: if you need help, get help from the kids. Every child in the household should have an important duty (or more than one) that they accomplish every day/week. But if this isn’t enough and you’re still strapped with time, try asking your child to help in other ways also. Reward them for their hard work and they’ll have no problem helping you in the future.

4.  Utilize the Internet
The internet is useful for so many things, but a lot of people don’t use it when it comes to time management. Instead of going out and shopping, try shopping online. Not only is it time saving but you can also snag special deals you can’t find in-store. Instead of going to the mailbox to pay your bills (or the store itself), simply set up an automatic payment method for your bills online. The money will be deducted from your bank account when the bill is due.

Using these time management skills will not only reduce stress for the entire family, but also make the entire day run smoother. Simply take a moment to assess and prioritize your time, then move on to organizing and asking your children for help.

Author bio: Tiffany is a passionate writer and proud mom of two kids. She loves to write on family, fashion, travel, home décor and gardening topics. Please visit her Google+ and Coupon4Mom blog to see more interesting posts.

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Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
Connect with

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.

Hockey Agony ~ January 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.

The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist











Monday, November 25, 2013

Book Review ~ The Little Dog in the Middle of the Road by Sharon Stanley


The connection humans and pets share is heartwarming indeed. The familiarity and bond that develops over time is centered on love and trust. Little Dog in the Middle of the Road beautifully shows the impeccable relationship between owners and pets. Journey along with Little Dog through the ups and downs of doubt of an owner’s pending return. Does “His person” return to Little Dog or does he need to learn how to fend for himself? Or will love triumphant?

Sharon Stanley puts for a wonderfully written story of unconditional acceptance. Visit Sharon at www.sharonpstanley.com to explore her exciting world.

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Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
Connect with

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.

Hockey Agony ~ January 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.

The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist











Thursday, November 21, 2013

Holiday Mail for Heroes



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Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
Connect with

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.

Hockey Agony ~ January 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.

The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist













Tuesday, November 19, 2013

Book Review - A Bad Mad Sad Day for Mama Bear by Mayra Calvani



Bad Mad Sad Day for Mama Bear
By Mayra Calvani
Illustrations by KC Snider
Guardian Angel Publishing
Hardcover ISBN: 9781616334345; $15.95
Softcover ISBN: 9781616334352; $10.95
eBook ISBN: 9781616334369; $4.99
24 pages

Everyone has them. Days that easily flow with everything working out perfectly and then there are the days that no matter how hard you try it seems nothing goes according to plan.

Mama Bear is having of those bad mad sad day’s and she becomes increasingly frustrated. Little Bear witnesses the struggles of Mama Bear’s day and attempts to lend his support. Mama Bear is so blinded by her obstacles she doesn’t notice Little Bear.

Will Little Bear’s attempts to sooth Mama Bear continue to go unnoticed or does Mama Bear realize her obstacles of the day mean nothing with the love of her Little Bear?

Mayra Calvani magically intertwines two generations perspectives of one’s bad mad sad day through caring efforts and that together difficulties can be overcome. A Bad Mad Sad Day for Mama Bear is sure to be a delightful time shared by parents and their young muses. Visit Mayra, www.mayracalvani.com & www.mayrassecretbookcase.com.

The amusing illustrations created by K.C. Snider add to the delight of reading A Bad Mad Sad Day for Mama Bear over and over again. Visit K.C., www.kcsniderart.com.


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Best wishes,
Donna M. McDine
Award-winning Children's Author
Connect with

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.

Hockey Agony ~ January 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.

The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.
~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist