In response to the Slate Book Review Against YA mentioning “…you should feel embarrassed when what you’re reading was written for children.” Bologna. 1. I’m a firm believer that unless a person has a legitimate impediment, EVERYONE can enjoy reading IF he or she discovers WHAT he or she enjoys.   The beauty of reading is […]

From the Author, Shelley Hitz Trusting God When Bad Things HappenGuest post by the author, Shelley Hitz My heart continues to be heavy for all those grieving today across our country. I don’t believe it was a coincidence that I published a book this past week called, “Trusting God When Bad Things Happen.” And even […]

Since I missed The Hunger Games in the theater, I’ve been eagerly awaiting the movie release on disc.  Now that I’ve read all three books/audiobooks in the series AND seen the first movie, I can offer a summary review. Books First the good part – the author, Suzanne Collins is a master of suspense and […]

Quick read, lots of snickering J 101 Tips for Traveling with a Vampire by Joleene Naylor is exactly what the author describes in the book’s listing description.  It’s short.  It’s a list of 101 tips for travelling with a vampire.  It’s free. It’s also a cute little companion book, written in the voice of Katelina, […]

NewYorican is a slice of life memoir 180 degrees from apple pie and Andy Griffith. From my review of NewYorican on Amazon.com: It’s a rare memoir that catches my attention. It’s even rarer that one grabs my attention enough to read, but the author’s story couldn’t be more different from my own safe, sweet southern memories. I think […]

No doubt, we southerners love country life, and generally, we like country music, but in the tradition of The Lacs, our country boys are also bringing our sweet southern home with a hip hop/rap beat.  “Country Road,” from The Lacs album, Country Boy’s Paradise rocks the lyrics we all know by heart… “Country Road, take […]

Our redneck wine glasses, champagne flutes, and martini / margarita / cocktail glasses have been selling faster than I can make them over at the Etsy shop, http://www.etsy.com/shop/BellyAcresAlabama, but y’all know me well enough to know that I won’t sell an item on Etsy unless I’m sure it’s good and sturdy.  (The redneck glassware takes […]

Well, specifically, I love Mike Rogers.  I can’t say the say for all our elected officials, but this man has earned my respect over and over.  With SOPA and PIPA looming, he has earned my respect again.Anytime a truly controversial bill is introduced, specifically if it will affect me or mine, I actually DO look […]

After the holiday break, it’s back to crafty goodness at Belly Acres.   …seems that the redneck or hillbilly champagne flutes, wine glasses, and martini glasses may show increased demand soon for upcoming rustic wedding plans.  I like making them, though it takes 1-2 weeks to thoroughly glue/cure and quality test them before I’m willing to sell […]

Well, this is one of the easiest comparison/contrasts I’ve ever done.  …two new fall shows based on fairy tales/stories.  …two very different pilots.  The bottom line comparison is as easy as asking which Florida theme park you prefer…Disney or Universal?  Yep.  They’re THAT distinct. Once Upon a Time Once Upon a Time is all about […]