The Saturday Six

 

Today I wanted to brag on some friends who have fun things going on in their creative endeavors!! I hope you find something that either might make a great Christmas gift - or something fun for you!

One.

First up, I've talked a hundred times about my friend Brent Vernon, who is both a musician and a children's book author. This week, he released a new book, and it's a CHRISTMAS book! I haven't read it yet, but I have read (and own) all the other books in the Audrey Amaka series, and I just love this little character. She is a neckless giraffe who teaches fabulous life lessons through her stories. I love Audrey, and I love Christmas, so this book is a win-win for me! Here is the link to order the book - and there are some free coloring pages there to download as well!

Two.

If you're not in need of a children's book to purchase, but you are intrigued about how they're made, Brent actually did a four-part (short) video series explaining the making of a book. I love behind-the-scenes peeks, so these were fun to watch! Here are the links to parts one, two, three, and four!

Three.

I normally don't post about books I haven't read, but watch me do it twice in this post! My friend Faith and her dad have co-written a book that just released last week. Faith and I met in college and have been good friends ever since! (And have often been mistaken for sisters, actually.) She is a licensed therapist, and her Dad has a degree in theology and is an experienced writer. Their first-ever co-authored book is called Praise the Lord and Pass the Prozac and is a devotional that explores mental health through a biblical lens. Faith was a great encourager and champion for me when I wrote my book, so I want to return the favor for her. I know she and her dad worked long and hard on this book and I am proud of them for overcoming some pretty big obstacles to get it in print! 

Four.

When I worked at WillowBridge, I made several new friends that I'm thankful to have still - even though we don't work there anymore! One of those friends shared her whole family with us, so we gained a whole BUNCH of new friends through them! Her sister, Aubrey, runs a small business called Zelaki Leather. Aubrey's husband is from Ethiopia, and a big part of what they do is inspired by Ethiopian work and helps give back to those in his homeland. They make beautiful leather bags, and for my birthday, Ryan gave me one. It is the nicest bag I have EVER owned, and I treasure it! They have all kinds of options, big and small, and I'm impressed with the quality. 

Five.

One of my Sunday School friends makes super cute little skirts, and I HAD to tell you about them. If we had a (human) girl in our house, I would be dressing her in these all the time. As it stands, I don't think Braeya and Lexi would go for them. But she uses really adorable fabric, and there are options with and without suspenders...all so cute! 

Six.

And for those of you who are around this area, Steele Farms is about to ramp up its fall season with a corn maze that honors heroes - like the fire and police departments, first responders, and more! I'm excited we live close now and can be part of the season for a fun date night!