Margo's Musing: A Little Love Goes a Long Way!

Last week Margo went to story hour at our local library. That’s where she first heard the book that caught her attention this week. After reading it over and over again I can see what she finds so wonderful about the story, and it has earned a spot on my favorite shelf as well.

Mr. Hatch does the same thing every day. He eats the same food, he wears the same clothes, he goes to the same stores, he walks the same route to work. Nothing changes. One day the mailman arrives with a special package and when Mr. Hatch opens it there is a gigantic box of chocolates with a note saying, “Somebody loves you.” Later that day Mr. Hatch has a skip in his step, and he decides to wear a fancy tie. The following day he decides to share some of the chocolates with people at work who he hasn't really talked to before. Little by little Mr. Hatch starts breaking out of his comfort zone. Everything is going great until the postman comes again. I don’t want to ruin the story for anyone, but you will really enjoy reading it yourself.

I think Margo asks for this book to be read over and over again because she likes the ending so much. But I also think she loves when Mr. Hatch changes and starts to smile. After we read this story, she points at everyone, saying, “Smile! I love you! Yay! Hey, I love you!” It's super cute, plus it goes along with the story perfectly. Considering that the book is all about doing nice things for people anonymously and how things like that have a bigger impact than you'd think. I know Margo smiling at everybody has made some grumpy people feel happier from just her good cheer. :) 

If you have not read Somebody Loves You, Mr. Hatch by Eileen Spinelli you should definitely check it out. Or listen to it at Storyline Online. I know one thing- it will make you want to brighten someone's day, like Margo. 

Happy Reading!  ~F

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Answer to Monday's Riddle: A Mysterious Gift...

Excellent guessing, Riddlers! This week, Margo's going to tell us about a gift from a stranger. Stop by Friday to find out who gets the present. See you all around the book block. ; ) ~ F

A mysterious note delivered with care, given to you by someone not there. Red roses are fine, they'll prick your feelings, chocolates melt hearts in these kinds of dealings. At first, you're confused, who is it from? Your thoughts buzz madly as you think of which one. No matter the giver, the thought is the key, sent with love from X to thee.

What am I referring to? Anonymous Gift/ Secret Admirer 

Fairday's Riddles: Volume I 
Make time to riddle and rhyme!

62 original riddles and illustrations
Available in all e-book formats





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Monday's Riddle: Sender Unknown...

Hello, Riddlers! Can you guess our theme this week? It's a nice thought, but can also cause trouble too, right Stephanie Faris? ; ) ~ F

A mysterious note delivered with care, given to you by someone not there. Red roses are fine, they'll prick your feelings, chocolates melt hearts in these kinds of dealings. At first, you're confused, who is it from? Your thoughts buzz madly as you think of which one. No matter the giver, the thought is the key, sent with love from X to thee.

What am I referring to? Stop by Tuesday for the answer. 

I gave you a clue!

Clue by the master of mystery,
Edward Gorey

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Minnesota... You Betcha!

This week I get to tell everyone about my home state, Minnesota. It’s one of my favorite places- and not just because it's where I'm from! I think lots of people think it's just cold there and there's a lot of farmland, but there is SO much more to it than that!

Lake Harriet

I love the fact that there are over 10,000 lakes of varying sizes and shapes. Where I used to live in Minneapolis people spend lots of time walking around the lakes, swimming in them, boating, water-skiing, fishing, picnicking near them and feeding the ducks. While there are thousands of lakes, one of my favorites is Lake Harriet. When we lived there, my mom and I liked to walk around it every chance we got. It wasn't a far walk from our house, so it was almost a daily thing. Of course, going “up north” to visit the lake where my family has a cabin is always a ton of fun, especially in the summer. Walking along the dirt roads with my grandma, picking raspberries, and learning to water ski are some of my fondest memories of being up and away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The only bad part about going “up north” was that, until a few years ago, we didn’t have indoor plumbing. I didn’t mind using the well and pumping water to brush my teeth, but the outhouse is something I am glad to have said goodbye to for good. We still have our cabin, and I look forward to going back there this summer. I can’t wait for Fairday to join me!

Yes lakes are fabulous, and so is all the exercise and outdoor activity, but being indoors can be pretty cool too. One of the things people know about Minnesota is that we have the largest mall in America. The Mall of America is pretty amazing, though I didn't do all my shopping there. With 400 stores it could keep serious shoppers busy for a long time. Besides all the shopping  there's an aquarium, an amusement park, Legoland and all kinds of interesting attractions to keep you entertained, and out of the cold.  I have to say that I love the roller coasters there and think everyone should try them if they get the chance to visit. 

When it comes to winter sports we have a lot of states beat! I learned to ice skate when I was only three. With so many places to show off your skills some of my best memories are skating with my friends at the park at the end of our street.  Some people think Minnesota is too cold, but I loved spending time outside sledding and having snowball fights. My older brother loves to go snowmobiling and has even ice fished!

Minnesota is so special, but what makes it truly an outstanding place is the friendly smiles you get as you walk down the street and the hellos you hear from everyone, even strangers. There is lots to explore, see, and enjoy in my home state! You betcha you’d like it!

Has anyone else been to Minnesota? Have you seen any of the lakes or enjoyed a pop (soda) in the Mall of America? We’d love to hear your thoughts.

~L