Gracie's Grounds

Groundhog Day At NC Museum of Natural Sciences!

2012-02-03T09:08:00.000-08:00

Our class had a grand time of learning, exploring God's wonders, and lots of groundhoggy fun at the NC Museum of Natural Sciences on Groundhog Day!!

Sweet siblings joined in the festivities too!

A highlight of the day was spending time with Denise Shadduck and Lolly (aka Sir Walter Wally)!

Denise is so sweet and is so gracious to let me spend some time snuggling with Lolly!

Oh yeah! I was delighted!!

And she endorses my book! In fact she took a nibble of one copy.

Our hats were the fine work of my wonderful assistant, Julie Clary!!

Waiting for the official ceremony at the NC Museum of Natural Sciences!!

And just so you know, that's Punxsutawney Phil peeking out of that bag! And Grover was there!

Gracie was there (waaay down in the corner). Somehow she didn't get in the pictures! Oh No!

And then the big moment!!

Raleigh's Mayor Nancy McFarlane made the big announcement.

Six more weeks of winter!! But this year, winter has been good to us.

It was a beautiful day to be outside enjoying the beauty of God's creation...groundhogs and all!!

Groundhog Day is Coming! Fun Facts for You!

2012-01-31T04:07:00.000-08:00

Goofy About Groundhogs

Are you goofy about groundhogs?? Check out this great infoand you’re sure to be! They are so cool!

· Groundhogs are marmots and are members of therodent family. People (like me!) who love groundhogs are called marmotophiles.People who study about groundhogs are referred to as marmotologists ormarmoteers.

· Groundhogs have other names…woodchuck and whistlepig. They are called whistle pigs because of the shrill whistle they sound towarn their friends of danger.

· That whistle is not the only way that God gavegroundhogs to protect themselves from predators. They have a strong sense ofsmell. They can smell if any predators have been near their burrow.

· Groundhogs are very alert and can peek fromtheir burrows without being noticed. Their eyes, ears and nose are high ontheir heads for great spying.

· Groundhogs can also make a loud chattering noisewith their teeth that scares enemies, which include wolves, foxes, coyotes, andeagles.

· And speaking of teeth, a groundhog’s teeth keepgrowing and growing and growing. They use their teeth to help dig their burrow.They can chew right through roots and even rocks! That gnawing keeps the teethat just the right length.

· Groundhogs are amazing diggers!!! The can moveabout 700 pounds of rocks, roots, and dirt in one day!!

· Groundhogs dig with purpose. When making theirburrow, they go down a few feet and then back up a bit, making a flood bumpwhich protects the burrow during storms. God made groundhogs really smart!

· Their burrows have a main entrance and alternateexits and spyholes. They have multiple “rooms” including a nest for snoozingand hibernating and a potty room.

· Groundhogs eat like pigs all during the summerto build up lots of fat for their hibernation. After the first frost, they headinto their burrow and sleep until spring.

· During hibernation, groundhogs barely breathe,only about once every six minutes. Their hearts only beat once every four orfive minutes. That’s deep sleep!!

· They eat grasses, leaves, fruits, tree bark,clover and crops…which keep them from friendship with farmers.

· Groundhogs live in places where trees are nearto open spaces, often close to roadways and streams. Groundhogs can climb treesand can swim, but spend most of their time on the ground.

· On February 2, Groundhog Day is celebrated! Onthis day, groundhogs from all over the country are pulled from their homes tosee if they see their shadow. According to tradition, if he sees his shadowthere will be six more weeks of winter. If he doesn’t, then spring is on itsway!!

Celebrating Christmas with Grover & Gracie at ChickFilA of Apex, NC

2011-12-27T04:00:00.000-08:00

What a merry time we had celebrating with the fine folks at ChickFilA of Apex!

We ate MOR Chikin Sandwiches & Chikin Mini's and loved the yummy milkshakes!

My sweet students came out to help me with the story and reciting the Luke 2 passage!!

This was our evening event!!

Mimi the Clown was there. She is amazing! She does the most beautiful face painting I've ever seen!

Santa Cow joined in the fun!!

Elf Cow too!!

Then came our breakfast event!! Mmmmm, love me some Chikin Mini's!!

She quoted the Luke passage flawlessly! I love God's children hiding His Word in their hearts!

Some of the proceeds were given to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation for beautiful children like this!

And here's our youngest guest joining me in wishing you a Merry Christmas!!

It's all because of Jesus!!

Chick-fil-A at Apex Celebrating Christmas!!

2011-12-01T19:13:00.000-08:00

Please come join me at Chick-fil-A at Apex Beaver Creek Commons!

Wednesday, Dec. 7 5:30-7:30pm

Saturday, Dec. 10 8:00-10:00am

Santa Cow & Elf Cow will be there celebrating with us!

Come Eat Mor Chikin and join in the fun!

I will be reading Grover Groundhog Is Not Hibernating This Christmas! and would love to autograph

books for the children on your Christmas list. The books are $10.00 each and when you purchase at the books at Chick-fil-A at Apex, $1.00 from each book sold goes to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

Christmas Craft Fairs and Festivals...First Baptist Church of Indian Trail, NC and Hemby Bridge, NC!!

2011-11-23T07:34:00.000-08:00

Mistletoe Madness at First Baptist Church of Indian Trail is always fabulous! Their women's ministry does an outstanding job!! I always love spending time with my friends Jean Matthew Hall and Jill Roman Lord! And of course it's so great to see so many of my Charlotte area friends!!

And then we really got in the mood for the holidays with all the sights, smells, and sounds of Christmas in Hemby Bridge!

Our dear friends, Don and Cindy Kinney, shared their tent, chairs and setup expertise with us!! It was fun to visit with them!!

The talented illustrator, my sweet Daddy, came by to visit for a while.

My Jersey girl, Evie, spent the whole day with me!! We had fun snuggling up and trying to keep warm!

Yep! I'm one happy Mama! I miss my girls! Evie and I loved it when Rachel came to join us!! We got to rub her baby belly and even feel the baby move!! Daddy Brandon came by too!! So blessed!!

Thanking God for this journey!!!

Glimpses of the Fun On the Road!

2011-11-23T06:37:00.000-08:00

What a blessing to share a road trip to Hudson, NC with my sweet Mama!! We laughed, reminisced, ate at Cracker Barrel, and spent the night with a dear friend, Dottie Almond. She was so gracious!

We started the morning at Heritage Christian School. What a delight!! We were greeted so warmly...on a cold, really cold day!! Thank you, Audrey Setzer!! The students and teachers were just fabulous!

Then we headed over to Harris Chapel Baptist Christian School. Thanks to Karen and Pastor Norrod for welcoming us there! The students were precious and such great listeners and participators!!

Thanks to all my friends in Hudson, NC!! It was a wonderful trip!!!

Interview with Vonda Skelton and Book Giveaway!!

2011-11-22T05:27:00.000-08:00

Hi friends!!
Please head over to my precious friend, Vonda Skelton's blog for a chance to win a Gracie or Grover book and read a little...actually a lot...about my journey as a writer!!! You will surely want to put Vonda's blog on your list of must-reads!! She is a gifted writer, speaker, and teacher!!! She is a woman who loves the Lord, encouraging others and making them laugh, and helping writers pursue their dream. What a privilege to be interviewed by such a lovely lady!!
Don't forget to leave a comment at her site for your chance to win!!!

Hemby Bridge, Here I Come! Next Stop, Apex ChickFilA!!

2011-11-18T06:52:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is the Hemby Bridge Christmas Festival!!!

1:00-9:00 pm!

Great entertainment, games, shopping, food, and amazing light display!

Come join us!

Next stop coming up, Apex ChickFilA at Beaver Creek Commons!!

Wednesday, December 7, 5:30-7:30 pm

and

Saturday, December 10, 8:00-10:00 am

Please come join me for dinner on Wednesday or breakfast on Saturday!!

I'll be reading Grover Groundhog Is Not Hibernating This Christmas!

Santa Cow and Elf Cow will be there!!

Hemby Bridge Christmas Festival

2011-11-17T03:57:00.000-08:00

Hemby Bridge Christmas Festival!!!

Come enjoy food, games, shopping for Christmas!!

See the amazing Christmas lights!

Bring your family for some delightful holiday fun!

The streets will be blocked for LOTS of vendors!!
Saturday, November 19, 2011...This weekend!

1:00-9:00 pm

Please come visit me!

Books make the best gifts, and I'll personalize them for you!

Big Events This Week!!

2011-11-07T17:53:00.000-08:00

We are so excited to travel to the mountains of NC this week!!! Groundhogs and I love the mountains!

Friday, November 11, 2011

Author Visits to Heritage Christian School & Harris Chapel Christian School

in Hudson, NC!

Saturday, November 12, 2011

Mistletoe Madness

If you're in the Charlotte area, come get a start on your Christmas shopping!!

Lots of Vendors and Lots of Fun!!

I'll be joining my friends Jean Hall & Jill Roman Lord, fellow authors.

First Baptist Church of Indian Trail

8:00 am-12:00 pm

Back to Charlotte next weekend too!!

Hemby Bridge Christmas Festival

Beautiful Downtown Hemby Bridge

1:00-9:00 pm

Great Evening at North Raleigh Christian Academy

2011-11-03T19:16:00.000-07:00

I was greeted by these lovely ladies! They were so hospitable and fed me lots of peanut M&M's!!

My table was all set up! And I took my Daddy's picture so my little friends could "meet" my Daddy, the illustrator too.

This is my favorite part about being an author!!! Such sweet new friends!

Gracie and Grover got some great hugs!

Thanks, NRCA and Bedford Falls Book Fairs!! I had a wonderful time!!!

PS Jan, thanks for sending the photo!! I tried to email you, but it kept coming back. Loved meeting you and your precious family!

PSS Laurie, sorry you left before we took the group picture! It was great to meet you!

PSSS Yes, Wendy!! It's a real groundhog...Sir Walter Wally from the Museum of Natural Sciences in Raleigh. It was taken last year at Groundhog Day! I was in Ground-Hog Heaven!

Holiday Craft Fair!!

2011-10-17T10:35:00.000-07:00

If you live in the Raleigh, RTP, Cary, Apex area...
Please join us this Sunday!!

October 23, 2011

1:00-4:00 PM

The Home of Cheryl Olive

137 Briarfield Drive

Apex, NC 27502

Lots of vendors with great gift ideas!

An amazing raffle basket with items donated by vendors!!

Yummy Snacks and Fun Fellowship!!

Gracie, Grover and I will be there with books!! Great Christmas Gift!!

NRCA, here we come!!

2011-10-14T06:58:00.000-07:00

I'm so thrilled to add North Raleigh Christian Academy to my upcoming Author Visits!!

I taught at NRCA back in the '90s!! I can't wait to visit with my dear friends there and make lots of new ones!!

North Raleigh Christian Academy

Bedford Falls Book Fair

Thursday, November 3, 2011

Family Night

More Fun Ahead!!

2011-10-04T17:42:00.000-07:00

Gracie, Grover and I just got back from an amazing writer's retreat (NCompass) on the beautiful Lake Keowee, SC. We met lots of new friends...even one who loves spotting Groundhogs almost as much as we do!!!

Here's what else we've got coming up!

Fall Craft Fair

1:00-4:00 Apex, NC

MOPS Salem Baptist Church, Apex, NC

Monday, October 24

Heritage Christian School

and

Harris Chapel Baptist Christian School

Hudson, NC

Friday, November 11

Mistletoe Madness

First Baptist Church, Indian Trail, NC

Saturday, November 12

Hemby Bridge Christmas Festival

Hemby Bridge, NC

Saturday, November 19

1:00-9:00 PM

Feel free to email me for details or to book a visit!

'Tis the Season!

2011-08-22T06:46:00.000-07:00

The season for Author Visits, that is!!! Of course, Christmas will be here before we know it...and Grover can't wait!!! Gracie even has Groundhog Day on her mind! I am gearing up for the exciting months ahead, and doing one of my most favorite things...sharing Gracie and Grover's stories with children and families everywhere!! I am in the midst of making school contacts and scheduling. Please contact me at kristi@graciesgrounds.com to get a date on the calendar for your event.

I'm thrilled to say that I already have a couple of wonderful opportunities scheduled! Come join us!

Fall Craft Fair in Apex, NC

Sunday, October 23, 2011

1:00-4:00

(Details to Follow)

Mistletoe Madness

Saturday, November 12, 2011

First Baptist Church Indian Trail

Indian Trail, NC

(Stay tuned for more info!)

Groundhog Day Event!!

Storytime at North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences!!

Thursday, February 2, 2012

I can't wait to see what God has in store for this new season of sharing His love through books!

Upcoming Fun at ChickfilA in Apex!!!

2011-06-21T18:52:00.000-07:00

Gracie and I just got back from a really awesome trip to Arizona!!! We spent time in Phoenix, Sedona, and at the Grand Canyon! It was so beautiful! We saw incredible sights and learned lots of cool stuff! We even ate Prickly Pear Ice Cream! That's made from the fruit of a cactus!!! We are excited to share some photos, some desert stories, and make a Saguaro Cactus together!! Come join us!

ChickfilA Apex

Beaver Creek Commons

Thursday, July 7, 2011

Storytime & Craft

9:30-10:30

We hope to see you there!!! Mmmm, I can't wait for my Chicken Mini's!!!

Photos of the Fun!

2011-05-23T19:08:00.000-07:00

Barnes and Noble was so great!!! It was so exciting to read Gracie's Groundhog Day Surprise for the GRACE Christian School book fair!! It was especially thrilling for me, as Gracie was "born" at a Barnes and Noble!!! How cool is that!?! A big thank you to GRACE for inviting me to come!!!

Earlier...

Olive Chapel Elementary in Apex did a fabulous job with their Artsapalooza event!!! I was honored to be a part of the festivities...and among such talented students!

I invited students to enter a drawing contest. They were amazing!! We enjoyed chatting while they drew.

And the contest winners...

This darling young lady won a Gracie book!

And this dapper gentleman won a Grover book.

What a wonderful time! I can't wait to go back next year!!! Thanks, Olive Chapel!!

Headed to Barnes and Noble!!!

2011-04-27T13:53:00.000-07:00

Gracie, Grover and I will be at Barnes and Noble on Walnut Street in Cary on Thursday, April 28 at 3:45 for the GRACE Book Fair!!! Come out and join us for "Open Mic" time and storytime!!!

Write2Ignite! Announces Dates for 2012!!!

2011-04-21T05:41:00.000-07:00

Write2Ignite! conference for writers of literature for children has announced the dates for 2012!! Next year's conference will be held March 16-17 on the beautiful campus of North Greenville University!!

If you are a writer of children's literature...if you have a dream of becoming a writer of children's literature, mark this date on your calendar!!! Come join us!!! Be inspired!! Make new writer friends!! Meet people who can guide you on your way to making your dreams come true!!!

Please visit our website at Write2Ignite! We would love for you to join us!!!

Upcoming Gig!!!

2011-03-22T17:25:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited!!! I've been invited to participate in Artapalooza at Olive Chapel Elementary in Apex, NC!!!

Olive Chapel Elementary's Spring Art Festival

Artapalooza!!!

Saturday, April 2, 2011

5:00-8:00 pm

There will be inflatables, facepainting, interactive art exhibits, and lots more...

including a visit from Gracie and Grover!!!

Come Join Us!!!

Stay tuned for pictures following the event!!!

You've Got to See This!!

2011-02-05T17:42:00.000-08:00

Our Groundhog Day celebration was so wonderful! You have got to check out Wendy Boyer's Slideshow Wendy made our darling groundhog hats (and her twins' dresses)!!! You'll feel like you were there!!!

Janice Sears, writer and also great photographer, did a super Article and Slideshow!!! Enjoy!!

Groundhog Day 2011 with Sir Walter Wally!!!

2011-02-02T17:09:00.000-08:00

What a day!!! And what wonderful friends I had with which to share it!! My transitional kindergarten class joined me on a field trip to Raleigh, NC's Museum of Natural Sciences!!

I got there a wee bit early...and guess who I got to hold!!!

This is actually the retired "Sir Walter Wally." His name is Davidson. He's 9 years old...surpassing the usual lifespan. He was very snuggly!

Then my precious students arrived...in their groundhog hats made by one of our amazing Moms!!!!

Punxsutawney Phil and Gracie had their own "handlers" for the day!!

Aren't they adorable!!!! Those are the cutest "groundhogs" I've ever seen!!

Then we headed inside for a chance to see Sir Walter Wally (the star of the day!!) up close and personal!

And then a fun surprise!

I think he wanted to kiss me! I wasn't too sure about that!

Isn't he a cutie?????

This is Denise, Sir Walter's and Davidson's handler! She was wonderful...a sweet Sister in Christ!!

Waiting for storytime!

And back outside...look who was the most stylin' in her groundhog hat!

And Sir Walter Wally's big moment!

And then...interviews with News 14!!!

It was a really fun day! Happy Groundhog Day everyone!!! Even if we have 6 more weeks of Winter!!!

Apex Baptist Church Preschool!!!

2011-02-02T16:24:00.000-08:00

ABC Preschool invited me as a part of their study of animals that hibernate!!! They had done some wonderful projects!! Grover and Gracie couldn't wait for their chance to share their story!

And the boys and girls were ready to listen!

And isn't this one of the most beautiful little girls you've ever seen!?!

When you give to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, she and many others are blessed with hope for a healthy future!!!

Thanks, ABC Preschool!!! It was a joy to spend time with you!!!

And thank you for the beautiful Thank You notes, students!!! I LOVE them!! I read each one. And thank you, too, for the LifeWay giftcard!! I can't wait to go!!!

Visit to Methodist Children's Center in Cary, NC

2011-02-02T16:07:00.000-08:00

Gracie and Grover loved meeting these new friends!

We had fun "getting the wiggles out!" They were super stretchers and wigglers!!

Thanks for letting me visit!! We loved every minute!!

ChickfilA Dinner Event...so Merry...and yummy!!

2010-12-27T09:40:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Marnie and ChickfilA of Apex for a wonderful evening of Christmas celebration!!! Of course the food was tasty...especially those peppermint shakes!!! Not only were we visited by Santa Cow and Elf Cow, but were even serenaded by harpist, Rose Stenbuck! Wow!

Lots of great friends came out on that blustery night!!

My wonderful Pastor, Matt Rice, from The Creek Church in Morrisville, and his little darlin's were there!!!

Grover and Gracie got some special hugs! And some of my amazing students came out to help me read...and sing...and quote the passage from Luke 2!!!

I'm so thankful that this dear one (a former student of mine from Cary Christian School) got to come!!! Her visit came after a trip to the ER for stitches in her sweet cheek. I'm so proud of her bravery!!!

A pose with my favorite PK's in their cow hats!! Aren't they just so precious?!?!

Sweet hugs from some of my cuties from PPCC!!

Delightful new friends...such intent listeners...and so sweet!

Love those smiles!!!

Even grown-up friends came to visit!!! Thanks, Johnny and Rhea, for your love and support!!!

Again, thanks to ChickfilA of Apex for allowing me to be a part of your Christmas festivities!!!

Visit to Carmel Christian School in Matthews!!!

2010-12-27T08:50:00.000-08:00

Wow! I had such a fabulous time at Carmel Christian School!!! It was so great to be back in Matthews!! I was greeted so warmly and treated grandly!!!

April Getz, their media specialist, is so fabulous! She handled every detail so beautifully!

And the students and teachers were equally wonderful...amazing listeners...and the best question askers I've ever experienced!!

I LOVE making new friends!!!

Even older...cool...big kids love picture books!!! Some of these even came ready to take notes!!! Love it!

There was even one teacher with a Groundhog Day birthday!!!!!!!!!! How cool is that!!!

Carmel Christian School got a really special treat...a visit from my Mom and Daddy, the illustrator!!!!! The students loved the opportunity to ask him lots of questions about illustrating!!! It was such a blessing for me to have them there!! Here they chat with April...just after she served us the most delicious lunch!!!

It was a delightful time!!! Thanks, Carmel Christian!!!

Eat More Chicken!!!

2010-12-05T12:28:00.000-08:00

Thanks to ChickfilA of Apex for allowing us to participate in your Christmas celebration!!! It was fun and delicious!!! Thanks to lots of friends...old and new...for coming out to share in the festivities!!!

Look who was there!!! Even Sparky!! Have you ever seen sweeter smiles???

Elf Cow was happy to give out lots of hugs!

This was the first storytime...for the earlybirds!! Some of my friends from PPCC came to help me read the story!! They were great singers and helped in reciting Scripture from Luke 2!!

Santa Cow and Elf Cow listened and participated!!! They made Jingle Bells sound the best ever!!!!

And more special guests came...and we saw the blessing of prayers answered!!! Look who came all the way from China!!!

The Chicken Minis and Peppermint Milkshakes were soooooo yummy!! And we had a fabulous time!! The boys and girls all got their pictures made with Santa Cow and Elf Cow and got the cutest magnet frame to put it in!!!

If you missed out on the merry-ness, don't fret!!! You have another chance!! We'll be back at ChickfilA at Beaver Creek Commons on Monday, December 13 from 5:30-7:30 for Christmas dinner with Santa Cow and Elf Cow!!! Come join us!!!

Delightful Time at Bethesda Christian Academy!

2010-12-04T15:54:00.000-08:00

Bethesda Christian Academy is near and dear to my heart! My husband and I co-founded the school!! We are so proud of the wonderful work in the name of Jesus that is being done there!!!

This was a return visit for Grover, Gracie, and me! We were there in January for a reading of Gracie's Groundhog Day Surprise. The students were anxious to hear of the further adventures of Grover and Gracie.

As they arrived...

...then we let the fun begin!!

Grover and Gracie have lots of fans!!

Everyone loves hearing Grover's whistle...and his Groundhog Day message!

I loved every minute with my friends and the wonderful students at BCA!!! They were awesome listeners and had such great questions!!! We even had special guests from the News and Observer!!! It was a delightful day!

Grover and Grace visit Elmcroft Assisted Living Facility!

2010-12-04T12:19:00.000-08:00

This was without a doubt one of my very favorite events!!! My Grandmother lives at Elmcroft. She, and most of the residents, suffer from dementia/Alzheimer's. How precious to hear them singing Christmas songs and reciting from Luke 2!!! The book is such a fun read aloud...allowing so much audience participation! We all celebrated with great joy!

That's our sweet little Nana on the left behind her walker.

Picture books are for children of all ages!!

This dear man is almost blind. He "saw" Gracie and Grover with his hands.

Such lovely smiles!

One of my Elmcroft friends snuggled with my Grover (stuffed animal) through the reading...occasionally aggravating her husband with him. She's a hoot! I didn't think she was going to let me have Grover back!

This is probably my favorite picture! He was so attentive...and smiley...and sweet!!!

What a blessing. What a gift from God. 1 Corinthians 2:9 says, "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love Him." I really had no idea that a picture book was in my future. And I never dreamed how blessed I would be in sharing it! I am so thankful that He "prepared" this for me!!!

BIG, BIG NEWS!!!!!!!! Chick-fil-A Event Announced!!!!!

2010-11-16T13:29:00.000-08:00

Wow!!! The Christmas bells will surely be ringing as Grover, Gracie, and I join Santa and Elf Cow at the Chick-fil-A in Beaver Creek Commons in Apex, NC!!!!

Santa and Elf Cow Breakfast

Saturday, December 4

8:30-10:30 am

Santa and Elf Cow Dinner

Monday, December 13

5:30-7:30 pm

Please come join us for some merry Christmas-y fun!!! Come eat the most delicious breakfast or dinner in town!! There will be singing, story reading, and lots of Christmas cheer!!! Hope to see you there!!!

A Trip Back "Home" to Hickory Grove Baptist Christian School!

2010-11-14T15:54:00.000-08:00

Aaaahh, it felt soooooooooo good to be back at HGBCS!!! Some of my favorite people...students...and "sisters" are there. My memories of teaching there will forever make me smile!

The day got off to the perfect start with a chance to hug...and hear the laughter of...my precious friend, and former assistant, Pam!!! She's pointing to where the Gracie book is dedicated to her...I always obey Pam!

The day was packed full!!! I enjoyed visits with TK-Fifth grade...from 8:15-2:00!!! They were wonderful listeners and asked lots of great questions!!!

You've got to love pink hairbows!!!! Gracie was excited to meet this new friend!

What a gift to be able to hug this precious one that I prayed from China to America!!!!

Thanks for coming, Kay! What a treat to see you!!! She knew me when I was just a baby!!!

And what a way to end the day...precious time with my dear "sisters"!!! God is so good!

Carolina Christian School, Locust, NC...Jolly Times!!

2010-11-14T15:17:00.000-08:00

Stanly County, NC is one of my favorite places on earth!!! My visit to CCS in Locust was so fun! I was greeted so warmly, provided for so graciously, and treated wonderfully! The students...and teachers...were great listeners!

It is always so cool to meet new friends...and thrilling to see some from years gone by...that are growing up all too fast!!

What a fabulous day! I feel so blessed to be able to share God's love through the written word with such precious students!!!

Thank you, Jennifer Hall, librarian magnifico!!! Thank you for the lovely gift too!!! You treated me royally!!!

More Merriment to Come!!

2010-11-07T13:43:00.000-08:00

There's a nip in the air...a fire in my fireplace...and a new event on my calendar to share Grover Groundhog Is Not Hibernating This Christmas! I am loving these festivities!!! Here's the latest scoop!

Thursday, November 11

Author Visit to Carolina Christian School

Locust, NC

Friday, November 12

Author Visit to Hickory Grove Baptist Christian School

Charlotte, NC

Sunday, November 21

Craft Fair

137 Briarfield Drive

Apex, NC

Please come and invite your friends!!!! Lots of great vendors & Christmas shopping!!!

Friday, December 3

Author Visit to Bethesda Christian Academy

Durham, NC

Friday, December 10

Author Visit to Carmel Christian School

Matthews, NC

And a ChickFilA event to be announced soon!

My 10 year old daughter (pianist and violinist) and I are also partnering to visit at Elmcroft Assisted Living Facility, where my sweet Nana lives, to treat them to some Christmas music and the Grover story while we are in Charlotte over the Thanksgiving holidays!! What a blessing for us to have the opportunity to share God's love together!!

Mistletoe Madness Was Amazing!!!!

2010-11-06T17:36:00.000-07:00

Wow! The Women's Ministry of First Baptist Church of Indian Trail ushered in "the most wonderful time of the year" in a grand way!!! With a Family Life Center full of great vendors...from jewelry to Christmas decor to beautiful handiwork to incredibly yummy baked goods and chocolates...and more!! It was so merry!!!

I had the privilege of sharing a table with Jean Hall, founder of the Write2Ignite!conference for Christian writers of children's books (Visit us at http://www.write2ignite.com/ !), author, and pound cake maker extraordinaire, and with Jill Lord author of lots of children's books!!! We had such fun together...laughing, signing books, and occasionally sneaking off to make purchases from other vendors.

My Daddy (the illustrator) and I enjoyed an opportunity to sign books together! Two of my daughters came by to visit...and shop!

I got to hug two of my favorite friends...
My dear "Sis," Wendy Pope came by to visit!!!! (You can "visit" her at http://www.wendypope.blogspot.com/!)

And my great friend, Joyce...one of the leaders of the amazing women's ministry team at FBCIT!!!!!

One of my Daddy's great friends came out to join us in the occasion!

Some of my very favorite students of all time came to get books...and hugs!

And Grover and I met lots of new friends...like this darlin' little curly headed one!!

Wow! Friends...old and new! That's got to be the best part of being a writer!!!

Thanks, Ladies of FBCIT!!! It was a splendid night!!! I look forward to next year!!!!

And More Excitement Ahead!!!!

2010-11-01T18:41:00.000-07:00

November is filling up with fun!!!

Thursday, November 4

Mistletoe Madness at First Baptist Indian Trail!!

Indian Trail, NC

Thursday, November 11

Author Visit to Carolina Christian School

Locust, NC

Friday, November 12

Author Visit to Hickory Grove Baptist Christian School

Charlotte, NC

Sunday, November 21

Craft Fair

137 Briarfield Drive

Apex, NC

And stay tuned...a storytime date at ChickFilA in Apex is in the works!!!

Friday, December 3

Author Visit to Bethesda Christian Academy

Durham, NC

Oh yeah!!! We are decking the halls!!! Fa la la la la la la la la!

Fun with Cindy at Lifetime!

2010-11-01T18:27:00.000-07:00

You've gotta love a Girls Night Out Craft Fair!!!

From Grover and Gracie books...

to Amazing Aprons!!

Did we have fun???

Yes, we think so!!!

Come Join Me!!!!

2010-10-27T17:10:00.000-07:00

Ladies Night Out

Lifetime Fitness in Cary!!!

This Friday, October 29 6:00-9:00pm

1700 Regency Pkwy

Fitness wear Fashion Show, Door Prizes, Raffle, Spa Services, and

Shop for Holiday Gifts!!!!

Please join me...and my friend, Cindy Winter-Hartley!!

I'll be selling and signing books!

Cindy will be selling spectacular cloth baskets and amazing aprons!!!

There is a $5.00 ticket fee to the event. It will be worth it!!

GRACE Christian School Event Photos!!!

2010-10-27T16:59:00.000-07:00

Thanks to GRACE Christian School for the invitation to be a part of their Book Fair event with three other authors!! It was fun!

Some of my favorite friends were there!

So was Red Robin!

Red Robin was happy to pose with my daughter and friends!

What a fun crowd to read to!!!

Such great listeners...and offering great ideas for the next Gracie and Grover book!!

We loved singing Christmas-y tunes together!!! What a merry time!!!

Can You Tell That I'm Excited?????

2010-10-18T18:03:00.000-07:00

Yay!! Yes, we even put up Melea's Christmas tree to take pictures for publicity!!! We're heading to Charlotte this weekend to get the illustrator extraordinaire (That's my Dad!) to autograph the books!!! Our first event is NEXT week at GRACE Christian School!! That's Tuesday, October 26 from 3:30-7:30!! A couple of other authors are attending...and the Red Robin!! How cool is that??? Come join us!!

The Books Are Here!! The Books Are Here!!!

2010-10-16T16:33:00.000-07:00

A must have for your Christmas library…Grover Groundhog is awakened to loud Fa-la-la’s and strange goings on aboveground. Far more exciting than hibernation, Grover wakes up his sister, Gracie. Cautiously the two trek to peek inside the window of the home near their burrow. Will Grover and Gracie be discovered…or will they make their own discoveries about what Christmas is all about? Find out in Grover Groundhog’s Not Hibernating This Christmas!

The first shipment arrived!!! Yay!!! That is such an answer to prayer!! Now I'm ready for the upcoming book events!!! Please email me at kristi@graciesgrounds.com to order your book or schedule an author visit!! It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!!!

Deck The Halls!!!

2010-10-11T15:23:00.000-07:00

Christmas-y Craft Fair!!!!

Yes!! It's true!! Another event has been added!!

Sunday, November 21

137 Briarfield Drive in Apex

Come join us as several vendors help you make your list and check it twice!!

We'll even have some yummy Christmas-y goodies for you to enjoy!!

Check back for more details and additional events!!

The Waiting is Over!!! Now the Fun Begins!!!

2010-10-07T17:20:00.000-07:00

Grover Groundhog Is Not Hibernating This Christmas!!

It is official!!! As of today, the book is in print and available to order!!! I had to play a little Christmas music to celebrate!!! I might just start decking the halls and finding a Christmas tree to "rock around"!!!

Check out the book events already scheduled!!

Tuesday, October 26 GRACE Christian School

Raleigh, NC

Thursday, November 4 Mistletoe Madness

First Baptist Church, Indian Trail, NC

Friday, November 12 Hickory Grove Baptist Christian

School, Charlotte, NC

Friday, December 3 Bethesda Christian Academy

Durham, NC

Some other events are "in the works"!!! Check back in...and please come join us!!!

If you would like to schedule a "Holly Jolly" book event or order a book, please contact me at kristi@graciesgrounds.com!! I would love to hear from you!!!

Christmas Book...Coming Soon!!!

2010-07-13T08:09:00.000-07:00

Here's a sneak peek at the cover!!! Stay tuned for a release date!!!

Start thinking...Deck the halls with boughs of holly! Fa-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la!

This Made My Day!!!!

2010-03-12T18:00:00.000-08:00

This beautiful smile greeted me everyday of Emily's Kindergarten year!!! She also came by to give me a hug everyday of her First Grade year!!! She always brightened my day!!! Her Mommy made my day by sending me this precious picture...Emily's smile still makes me so happy!!!

Just a Taste of the Fun!!!

2010-01-31T18:58:00.000-08:00

Wow!! What fun Gracie and I have had!!! Just thought you might like to see!!

Our first visit was to Bethesda Christian Academy in Durham, NC. My husband and I actually started the school...so it was a treat to have that be our first stop!

This is my dear friend, Brenda, who also happens to be the Assistant Principal of the school!! She did a fabulous job of making all the arrangements...including having a Power Point presentation made for me!!! The students...everyone from Kindergarten through Grade 5...were such great listeners!!! They asked really good questions. My favorite was, "Are you rich?" My trip to BCA was the perfect beginning to the book tour!

Next stop...Metrolina Christian Academy, Indian Trail, NC!!! I taught Kindergarten there before we moved to Raleigh. Another fabulous school!!!

The day was amazing!!! Principal, Amy Hill, and Assistant, Lynn Laney, took care of all the details!! I spoke to each grade level...Pre-K through 5th Grade. We started at 8:30 and went pretty much non-stop...well with one potty break and a 30 minute lunch...until 2:45!! Thanks to Wendy Pope for coming and enjoying the time with us! My parents also came for part of the day!

Great students...great listeners...great questions!! There are some future authors at MCA!!!

My Kindergarteners have grown into 3rd & 4th graders!! It was so fabulous to see them!! I look forward to going back!

The very next morning...back in Raleigh...and off to ChickFilA for a yummy breakfast and a pajama party storytime!!

Yes! Me and the ChickFilA Cow...in our Pajamas!!! He sat right with me throughout the storytime...a wonderful listener!!

Many thanks, Marnie (marketing with ChickFilA Apex at Beaver Creek Commons) for hosting us, feeding us, and taking care of everything so wonderfully!!! Did I promise not to use this picture??

Loving time reading with my young friends in their pj's!!! Thanks to all of my students and friends at PPCC and their families for coming out early in the morning!! It was awesome to see the Boykin family, such precious people! The Hairr family came in support and representing the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation...and brought some friends from church! The Cockerham family (wife and children of Chris, campus pastor at Hope Community Church Holly Springs campus) was there...all sweetness and smiles. My daughter, Rachel joined me...and her friend Megan Hodge! Emily & Catherine, friends of Melea's from GRACE Christian School came to share in the fun!! We enjoyed meeting some new friends from the Apex community too! It was amazing!

Gracie and I loved every minute!!

Grover, Gracie, and Gloria...precious friend, prayer warrior, and photographer extraordinaire!!!

God is so good!!!

Groundhog Day is Coming! Do You Have Your Book Yet??

2010-01-08T08:12:00.000-08:00

I must tell you that I am chuckling to myself right now...for a number of reasons! First of all, that I just looked at my calendar and thought, "A month from now, it will all be over....like Christmas...there's all the excitement, and then it's done." Yes, it's a little comical to me that I am feeling all giggly inside over Groundhog Day...and not wanting it to go by too fast! (Please know that I don't equate the importance of the day to Christmas!...still giggling...How did this happen????) Another reason for the hilarity is in God's choosing such a non-outdoorsy girl to be smitten with groundhogs...of all things! Oh yeah, He has a sense of humor! In fact, I feel sure that He is just as delighted as I am...as He continues to work in ways that amaze me!

So, do you have your book??? Groundhog Day is rapidly approaching! Leave a comment here or email me at kristi@graciesgrounds.com. We'll get your copy shipped out! Or...if you are in downtown Cary, stop by Beadazzled. They have autographed copies there!!!

Also, there's another author visit booked! I am ecstatic!! Here's an updated schedule!
Friday, January 15, 2010 Author Visit to Bethesda Christian Academy, Durham, NC
Friday, January 22, 2010 Author & Illustrator Visit to Metrolina Christian Academy, Indian Trail, NC
Saturday, January 23, 2010 Breakfast/Storytime at Apex Chick-Fil-A, Apex, NC 8:30-10:00 am Wear your pajamas!!!
January 30-February 2 Heading North to Punxsutawney, PA for Groundhog Day Festivities!! I'll be speaking at The Presbyterian Church of Punxsutawney on Sunday morning! Daddy & I will be signing and selling books at the Community Center on February 1&2!
February 26-27, 2010 Write2Ignite Writers Conference (Check sidebar for details!)

And it doesn't stop there!!! Cindy Kenney, author & editor extraordinaire, has finished editing my next groundhog book...Grover Groundhog Is Not Hibernating This Christmas!!! We are expecting a summer release date...in plenty of time for the truly "most wonderful time of the year"!!! Want to know the next in the series??? A book to celebrate July 4!!!

I would love for you to pray with me, for God's love and truths from His Word to be spread in ways that only He can imagine!! Pray for me as I speak in schools, churches, at Chick-Fil-A, and at Write2Ignite! Pray for me as I continue to write, edit, and revise. Pray for my Daddy as he illustrates my books. That is a treasure beyond words!

On the Road!!

2010-01-02T15:13:00.000-08:00

We're enjoying a relaxing weekend in the beautiful NC mountains! We love it here! The snow provided the perfect photo opportunity for a publicity shot!! We are resting up for the exciting days ahead, as our calendar fills with appointments to share God's love and the message of forgiveness through Gracie's Groundhog Day Surprise!!!

Friday, January 22, 2010          Author & Illustrator Visit to Metrolina Christian Academy, Indian Trail, NC
Saturday, January 23, 2010      Breakfast/Storytime at Apex Chick-Fil-A, Apex, NC 8:30-10:00 am
January 30-February 2             Heading North to Punxsutawney, PA for Groundhog Day Festivities!!
February 26-27, 2010              Write2Ignite Writers Conference (Check sidebar for details!)

A couple of other author visits are in the works in the Raleigh Area!

Contact me at kristi@graciesgrounds.com if you would like to be put on our calendar or if you would like to purchase a book!

Happy New Year!!!

"...Watch--and be utterly amazed. For I am going to do something in your days that you would not believe, even if you were told." Habakkuk 1:5 (NIV)

Books, Books for Sale!!!

2009-12-03T14:08:00.000-08:00

Yes, the truck finally arrived...with books...and a long awaited dream realized! It was definitely a thrill to hold Gracie's Groundhog Day Surprise in my hands!!! It was also exciting to place an order for another 100 books!!! Wow! God is so good!!!

If you would like a copy...a personalized note for that special little someone in your life, autographed by author and illustrator...just email me at kristi@graciesgrounds.com or nckristib@aol.com.

Please contact me if your are interested in an author visit at your school, preschool, church, or library. Groundhog Day is just around the corner!!

Somewhere On a Truck...Books!!!

2009-11-06T08:35:00.000-08:00

It's Official!!! Gracie's Groundhog Day Surprise is in print!!!!

At this very moment, books are being shipped to my house!!

"And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him." Colossians 3:17 (NIV)

Thank You, Lord, for the inspiration, the words, the dream realized! May it bring glory and honor to You! You are amazing, Lord! I sing praises to Your Name!

To Order Your Books:
*Email me at kristi@graciesgrounds.com
or
*Visit www.winepressbooks.com. Enter my name (Kristi Butler) in the search rectangle in the top right hand corner.

Dreams Do Come True!!!

2009-04-03T13:25:00.000-07:00

The first Gracie book is going to be published!!!

Gracie's Groundhog Day Surprise should be available by November!!!

Author: Kristi Morrow Butler

Illustrator: David F. Morrow (Yes, that's my Daddy!)

Upcoming Events:

Book a school visit or book signing!! Just leave a comment!

We are headed to Punxsutawney, PA for Groundhog Day, Feb. 2, 2010!!! We'll be staying at our favorite Punxy B&B, the Jackson Run Bed and Breakfast with our friend and innkeeper, Donna Grabany! She even has chocolate groundhogs!!!

Check back in for updates on publishing progress.