Blog of the Day Award...

"Twiglet" the Little Christmas Tree received the Blog of The Day Award today! Nominate your favorite blog(s) for this prestigious award and let them know that their hard work is not in vain.

"Best Blog Awards

Blog of the Day Awards offers the best selection of weblogs and famous blogs on a variety of topics. Selection of Best Blogs of the Day is usually done a few days ahead of time based on nominations up to that point. Criteria include content, quality, creativity, and the personal opinion of the judges. Judges grant up to four awards each day in recognition of outstanding nominees who are recommended by visitors to the site and by a panel of judges who bestow the honor of a Daily Blog Award upon the recipients. Being named a Blog of the Day Awards Winner can be the crowning achievement of a lifetime of work or it can be the beginning of a new chapter in the life of a blogger. Presentation of these awards can bring acclaim and notoriety beyond their wildest imaginings. The accolades and praise heaped upon winners of these prestigious awards can be best described as fabulous and the stuff of legends. We don't care what blog hosting platform your weblog is hosted on. We want the best blogspot blogs, the best wordpress blogs, the best typepad blogs and so forth. If you know a weblog that should be nominated for these Daily Weblog Awards or if your own blog seems to be a likely candidate for the prize, nominate it by submitting a comment to the most recent award post.

Thank you,

Blog of the Day Awards Judges and Staff

Nominate the Best Blogger you know. 2006 blog awards nominate your favorite blogs - http://blogofthedayawards.blogspot.com/"

Twiglet 1 - Part One...

The story of “Twiglet” the Little Christmas Tree is a story of discoveries*, miracles*, and friendships*. Read along with us as we follow the lives of Twiglet and the Oliver twins!

A long time ago on a Christmas tree farm there was a little itty, bitty, Christmas tree named “Twiglet”. The Christmas tree farmer was a bent old man who had a grandson named Bright.
Well...as the old farmer was planting the Christmas tree seeds, one seed fell as he was walking from his barn to the field. This one little seed lay there on the ground until one of the old farmers’ horses, ridden by Bright, picked it up in his hoof.
Unknowingly, Bright saddled up Star and rode all over the mountains, valleys, and streams on his Gran’pa’s place. All the while, the poor little seed was driven deeper and deeper into Star’s hoof!
When Bright finished riding, he started cleaning Star’s hooves just as his Gran’pa had taught him. He found the little seed! On his way to show his Gran’pa, Bright lost the little seed and no matter how much he looked for it, he could not find it!
Later, a little tree with a white top-notch showed up just on the outskirts of the Christmas tree farm. For this tough little seed fell into fertile ground and as the years went by the little itty, bitty Christmas tree grew. However, he did not grow as fast as the other trees planted by the old farmer, Gran’pa Shepherd, and his grandson, Bright Starr.
Well...it was time to harvest the trees and “Twiglet” joined the others in the wagon. The old farmer and Bright hooked up their horses, Star and Blaze, to the wagon and hauled the trees to the nearest town, a town called “Snowflake”.
They took the trees to a lot east of town where they sold them at a low cost, to make many children and their families happy. The trees were a reminder that it was Jesus’ birthday and that it was more important to give gifts than it was to receive them!


Meanwhile, about half way to Snowflake, something happened to Twiglet! He was so small and was on the very top of the load. With all that bouncing, Twiglet bounced right off the wagon and landed by the wayside! Gran’pa and Bright continued on their way to Snowflake unaware that Twiglet was gone!
That afternoon near dusk, two small twins gathering wood and twigs came across Twiglet. They were Rueben and Rachel Oliver. They had come to live with their Grandpa and Gramma Oliver when their parents had sailed to South America as missionaries.
Where would they put the tree? They had Brown Sugar, the old brown mare and their Gramma’s sleigh with them, but the sleigh was full of wood and twigs.
To their delight, the tree was small enough that they could put it on top of their load of wood and twigs to carry it home! They lived in a little old cabin, down a little old lane, among the tall pine trees with their Gramma O. Christmas would not be the same this year because they had lost their mother and father to the fever on the ship bound for South America. The twins were supposed to have joined their parents once they settled.
On the other hand, Gramma O was very thankful for Rueben and Rachel. She loved them
both very much and worried about what would happen to them if something happened to her. She was very old and was trying hard to provide for Rueben and Rachel, but was having a hard time since Grandpa Oliver had passed away shortly after the twins came to live with them. Gramma O was truly thankful that the little old cabin belonged to her. The children were thankful that they had Gramma O and her small home to live in. They tried to help her as much as they could.
Well...the twins took Twiglet into the little old cabin and told Gramma O how they had come upon the little itty, bitty Christmas tree. Gramma O rejoiced with them and said that the white top-notch was a good sign and that they must try to decorate the little Christmas tree!
Gramma O popped popcorn and used the twine she had saved from the old flour sacks that she bought from Jacob’s Mercantile. While Gramma O was popping the corn to make popcorn rope, Rueben and Rachel took Brown Sugar and the sleigh back into the fields behind the cabin to gather holly leaves and berries, pine boughs and pinecones, and mistletoe. They filled the sleigh as they shouted and sang because great was their excitement in having a tree for Christmas this year!
Darkness had reached them before they could get home. Gramma O lit the old kerosene
lamp and by the lamplight, they decorated the tree, the parlor, and sang as Gramma O played Christmas carols on the old upright piano.
Twiglet gave them much hope and joy. Each of them began to think hard on what they could find or make as a gift for the others. Gramma O started knitting some mittens for the twins and decided to make homemade fudge and taffy. They were giving thanks to God that Twiglet had renewed their Christmas spirit. Just as they were about to go to bed, they heard a faint knock at the door.

Copyright 2003 ~ All rights reserved. Unauthorized reproduction, in any manner, is prohibited.
Printed in the United States of America
ISBN: 0-974561-51-7 ~ Illustrations by Phyllis Mae Richardson Fisher

"Twiglet" is going to the BLOG VILLAGE Carnival...

This post will stay at the top until the entry deadline.

"Twiglet" will be participating in a fun new event in BLOG VILLAGE! The theme for this Carnival is "About the Family" and gives you a chance to brag on the special people in your life. Carnival entries are limited to BLOG VILLAGERS and blogs that are directly linked to BLOG VILLAGER blogs.

The BLOG VILLAGE Goes Gonzo Carnival is hosted by BLOG VILLAGE owner, Dirty Butter. Entry rules and contact information are posted at The Gonzo Papers and in the BLOG VILLAGE NEWS.

Let's have a little fun while getting to know more about our fellow VILLAGERS and reach out to the linked community for possible newcomers to BLOG VILLAGE. Now let's me see...what can I write about...?

BookWire Review...

“TWIGLET” THE LITTLE CHRISTMAS TREE
SAM RICHARDSON, PHYLLIS MAE RICHARDSON-FISHER, ANTHONY WAYNE MCANALLY, TRAVIS
LEE MCANALLY, GEORGE HARVEY FISHER, DOUGLAS WAYNE FISHER, & JANEY LOREE FISHER.
PJ’s Corner, $30, comb bound (186 p) ISBN 0-974561-51-7
“If we are kind to others and willing to help living creatures, we will
always be taken care of by providence.”---This is the timeless message of the
book. Vibrantly and captivatingly illustrated by Phyllis Mae Fisher and Douglas
Wayne Fisher, “Twiglet” the Little Christmas Tree, is an engaging tale of
Christmas spirit and compassion.
This is the story of twins, Rueben and Rachel Oliver, and “Twiglet”. The orphaned twins live with Gramma Oliver in a little old cabin, in a town called
“Snowflake”. In spite of their humble background, they never hesitate to share their last morsel and are always helpful to others, be it people or animals. The unexpected discovery of “Twiglet”, the little Christmas tree with a white top-notch, is a sign of goodwill. Every new Christmas is a harbinger of exciting events and warm friendships.
While teaching values, the book offers educational value, as well. Rhymes like ---“March is in, the winds begin.” or “November days of rest, after harvests’ best.”--- teach children about the ever-changing seasons and what makes each month special. Vivid descriptions and colorful illustrations bring the holidays alive. Children are introduced to various professions through the portraits of Grandpa Shepherd, Smithy Peters, Doctor Luke, Parson Johnson, Miss Sarah, and others. The glossary is an excellent accompaniment to enhance vocabulary.
Forecast: A heartwarming story, charming pictures, lively characters, large print and comb binding, make this entertaining and informative book a perfect gift for young children.
BookWire Review
October 8, 2004

Excerpt from "Twiglet" the Little Christmas Tree...

"Twiglet" the Little Christmas Tree

"A long time ago, on a Christmas tree farm, a tree with a white top-notch showed up. It was time to harvest the trees and "Twiglet" joined the trees in the wagon. The old farmer, Gran'pa Shepherd and his grandson, Bright, hauled the trees to the nearest town called “Snowflake". Twiglet fell off the wagon and landed by the wayside! Rueben and Rachel Oliver came across Twiglet while gathering wood. They lived with their Gramma O in a little old cabin, down a little old lane, among the tall pine trees. Christmas would not be the same this year, because they had lost their mother and father to the fever, on a ship bound for South America. Gramma O rejoiced with the twins over finding the little Christmas tree, saying that the white top-notch was a good sign and they must try to decorate him! Gramma O lit the old kerosene lamp as they decorated the parlor and "Twiglet".
Snowflakes as big as gumdrops, were falling from the frosty, night sky! Gran'pa Shepherd and Bright were hurrying to get home when the wagon wheel broke… "

Order your copy of “Twiglet” the Little Christmas Tree to discover what happens next!

Large Print Book ~ 8.5" x 11" ~ ISBN: 0-974561-51-7

Large Print Booklet ~ 4.25"x5.5" ~ ISBN: 0-974561-54-1

M-E-R-R-Y C-H-R-I-S-T-M-A-S...

...to all our blog readers!!! Santa and "Twiglet" the Little Christmas Tree wish you the best holiday ever! Remember that there is more to Christmas that receiving gifts...giving of yourself to make life better to those around you is pretty special. We have a Christmas challenge ~ On Christmas day...wash the Christmas dishes for the cook! Or...round up all the wrapping paper, boxes, and bows and take it to the trash can outside! Or...give everyone around the Christmas tree a hug and tell them that they are special to you! We would love to hear what you did. (You have one week to decide what you will do!)

Santa 'n' "Twiglet" the Little Christmas Tree

Rueben's Favorite Paper Doll Outfit Survey - Post 2

Reuben needs your help in deciding which outfit to wear for the December 1st issue of PJ's Paper Doll Memories eNewsletter! Will it be his "Top Hat & Coat" of red and white with a black top hat, cane and spats, or his "Snow Outfit" of red wool and white fur with grey wool pants? Remember, that Rachel needs your help, too over on PJ's Paper Doll Cut Outs blog!

Bowker Recommends...

The following is a synopsis of:

"Twiglet" the Little Christmas Tree
Phyllis Mae Richardson Fisher

You and your child will be able to lay this 186 page, comb bound children's book flat to fully enjoy the large print, 49 full-page illustrations, and countless color clipart that fill this story of discoveries, miracles, and friendships. Cut out two bookmarks that are included to keep your place in this treasure book.

Read along as you go back to a time long ago, when a tree with a white top-notch shows up on a Christmas tree farm. You will meet Gran'pa Shepherd and his grandson Bright who own the Christmas tree farm and through "Twiglet" the Little Christmas Tree, you will meet twins Rueben and Rachel Oliver who live with their Gramma O in a little old cabin, down a little old lane, among the tall pine trees.

As the story unfolds you will help the twins look for "Twiglet" each year, discovering the friendships and miracles that happen when you lend a helping hand. You will sit in a one room schoolhouse as Miss Sarah teaches the children of Snowflake the valuable lessons in knowing how to read, write and do their arithmetic. Memorize the monthly sayings along with the children and keep a look out for Twiglet and the new friendships and miracles that fill all seven chapters.

Read on as Rueben and Rachel learn the awesome responsibility of taking care of their own horses, go on school picnics, participate in the towns' 4th of July celebration, and continue to look for the miracles and friendships that accompany the white top-notched tree year after year.

This synopsis is posted over at www.bookwire.com, where R.R. Bowker lists their recommended reading for children.

Rueben's Favorite Outfit Survey Tally...

Follow this post to keep up on Rueben's Favorite Outfit Survey! Rueben is trying to decide which outfit to wear in the December 1st Issue of PJ's Paper Doll Memories eNewsletter. Click on the title of this post to choose your favorite outfit between his Western Outfit and his Top Hat & Coat...right now it looks like Rueben will be wearing his Top Hat & Coat!

PJ's Seven Stop Christmas Tour!!!

It's that time of year for PJ's Seven Stop Christmas Tour! Go to www.pjscorner.net to start a tour of seven products that are available in a "Special" gift bag. This tour is interactive and lots of fun! Write a book report on the children's book, cut out 14 outfits for both Rachel and myself, color those same outfits your way and cut them out for extra clothes for us. Use the stationery for your "Twiglet" book report, write a letter, or write to Rachel and I, send someone special the holiday greeting card, cut out matching stickers and gather it all into a handy gift bag. Attach the matching gift card with the enclosed curly ribbon and give this special gift this Christmas! Besides, I will post your book report and letter here on "Twiglet" the Little Christmas Tree's blog. My twin sister, Rachel will post your coloring book masterpiece and your past paper doll memories or the ones you create this Christmas over on PJ's Paper Doll Cut Outs blog! Catch the train as Rachel and I guide you through this interactive tour...

Rueben's Favorite Paper Doll Outfit Survey - Post 1...

"It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas, toys in every store..." is a favorite Christmas Carol. With Christmas almost here, the excitement of gift giving is in the air. Just like his twin sister, Rachel, over on PJ's Paper Doll Cut Outs blog, Rueben is trying to decide what outfit to wear in our December 1st issue of PJ's Paper Doll Memories eNewlsetter. Help him decide by picking your favorite one in each of the "Rueben's Favorite Outfit Survey" posts. Rueben has 20 outfits to choose from and would like to know what outfit is your favorite. In this first post, Rueben is modeling his Western Outfit on the left and his Top Hat and Coat on the right.
Remember these seven things as you choose your favorite outfit:

1. Choose your favorite outfit from each of the "Favorite Outfit" posts.
2. Click on the comment link to let us know.
3. The winning outfit will be posted in the next "Favorite Outfit" post along with a new outfit.
4. If there is a tie, we will hang both outfits back into Rueben's closet to decide later.
5. By process of elimination we will find out which outfit Rachel will wear in the eNewsletter.
6. Follow this link to sign up for your December 1st Issue of PJ's Paper Doll Memories eNewsletter.
7. Have lots of fun and tell everyone about Rueben's Favorite Outfit Survey here on "Twiglet" the Little Christmas Tree's blog!

Rueben Presents: Our blog is featured in a VILLAGE NEWS article!

"Twiglet" the Little Christmas Tree is one of the featured blogs in today's post at BLOG VILLAGE's community blog, VILLAGE NEWS. BLOG VILLAGE's creator and monitor, Rosemary of Dirty Butter Estates, has started featuring the BLOG VILLAGERS as a fun way for the villagers to get to know one another. The first featured blogger is Sheila over at Alabama Kitchen Sink. Her blog is "MUSINGS ON LIFE, ART AND STARTING A BUSINESS IN THE HEART OF DIXIE." Twiglet" the Little Christmas Tree and PJ's Paper Doll Cut Outs both by Janey Loree are the second featured blogs. Take the time to visit BLOG VILLAGE and browse through the 206 blogs available for your reading pleasure.

Cast of Characters (as they appear in the story)

Not only does this book have a "Cast of Characters", there is a "Cast of Animal Characters". Horses, dogs and cats have integral parts in this story, set in a little town called "Snowflake". Townspeople hold such occupations as blacksmith, Christmas Tree farmer, physician, schoolteacher, man of God, mercantile owner, lawyer, dentist, and rancher.

(Glossary of Terms)

Keeping in mind that while it is important to find a good book for our children to read, having educational qualities that help teach roman numerals, the definitions of words contained within the book, the care of animals, and helping others, make "Twiglet" the Little Christmas Tree a complimentary book to any child's library of cherished books.
Red asterisks that look like snowflakes punctuate the story leading the reader to the glossary of terms found in the front of the book. A note to "use a dictionary for other words", reminds children to find the meaning of words that they are not sure of.
The glossary, containing 45 words such as hemisphere, meridian, trousseau, colt and filly serves as a speller while the reader is enjoying a story of discoveries, miracles, and friendships.
"Twiglet" the Little Christmas Tree is available exclusively in PJ's Corner and is available in two sizes. The original size of 8.5" x 11" is perfect for your child to lay flat on the table or floor as they read this story to you or their friends. A collector's size of 4.25" x 5.5" makes this book handy for travel.
to break in on here and there; interrupt [a speech punctuated with applause]

Forward...

The rough

draft was started

the day after Thanksgiving 2001.

Sam came over to our house

while we set up and decorated

our Christmas tree!!! That’s when Sam Richardson

got an idea!!! He set the scene, added a few

characters, and lost a seed in three sentences!!!

He then asked the rest of us to write

a few lines each!! We all thought Sam’s “Well”

was too funny, so we continued to use it throughout the story!

He wanted a monkey in the story, too!!!

Anthony Wayne McAnally (youngest son of Janey Loree), in two

paragraphs found the seed, added horses to the story, and lost the seed,

again!!! He helped with the horse facts! Travis Lee McAnally

(Janey Loree’s oldest son), suggested that the tree have

a white top-notch for easy detection & helped with the horse facts!

Also, the clock chiming and making placemats were Travis’ ideas.

Phyllis Mae Richardson-Fisher (Sam’s first cousin), wrote

the rest of the story and has plans for a sequel!!! (even though Sam said he

did not want a run away!!!) Some of that stubborn Richardson

DNA showing!!! In addition, Phyllis Mae illustrated the story.

The neighbor with the red REO delivery truck was contributed by George Harvey Fisher

(Phyllis’ husband). Also, he helped edit the story, and gave moral support!!!

George was the carpenter for the office shelves, small art boards and table extensions.

Douglas Wayne Fisher (George & Phyllis’ son), wanted Twiglet to be a welder,

so we added “Smithy” the blacksmith, ferrier, and livery owner!!!

Doug drew the red truck at age 15.

Janey

Loree

Fisher

(daugh-

ter of

George and Phyllis), compiled, typed,

edited, and proofread the story.

Phyllis and Janey designed the

book. After months of work

this story is complete!!!

Introducing a children's story book...

You and your child will be able to lay this 186 page, comb bound children's book flat to fully enjoy the large print, 49 full-page illustrations, and countless color clipart that fill this story of discoveries, miracles, and friendships. Cut out two bookmarks that are included to keep your place in this treasure book.
Read along as you go back to a time long ago, when a tree with a white top-notch shows up on a Christmas tree farm. You will meet Gran'pa Shepherd and his grandson Bright who own the Christmas tree farm and through "Twiglet" the Little Christmas Tree, you will meet twins Rueben and Rachel Oliver who live with their Gramma O in a little old cabin, down a little old lane, among the tall pine trees.
As the story unfolds you will help the twins look for "Twiglet" each year, discovering the friendships and miracles that happen when you lend a helping hand. You will sit in a one room schoolhouse as Miss Sarah teaches the children of Snowflake the valuable lessons in knowing how to read, write and do their arithmetic. Memorize the monthly sayings along with the children and keep a look out for Twiglet and the new friendships and miracles that fill all seven chapters.
Read on as Rueben and Rachel learn the awesome responsibility of taking care of their own horses, go on school picnics, participate in the towns' 4th of July celebration, and continue to look for the miracles and friendships that accompany the white top-notched tree year after year.
Large Print Book ~ 8.5" x 11" ~ ISBN: 0-974561-51-7

Large Print Booklet ~ 4.25"x5.5" ~ ISBN: 0-974561-54-1