The Cajun Cornbread Boy

Louisiana Story Fest Resideny @ Bissonet Plaza Elementary – Day 9, Thursday, February 26, 2009

by Dianne on February 27, 2009

Dianne de Las Casas tell stories to the pre-K classes 2-26-09

Dianne de Las Casas tell stories to the pre-K classes 2-26-09

Friends:

Today was Day 9 of my Louisiana Story Fest residency at Bissonet Plaza Elementary. My 8 year old daughter, Eliana, who is off school for the Mardi Gras break, accompanied me to the school. She was such a sweet helper, filling in for missing students during rehearsal, helping me distribute supplies, and keep me organized. She even knew the schedule!

For my last two days, I am with the P.E. department, seeing each grade level at one time. My day began with 5th grade. The classes were very disorganized with the exception of Ms. Brumfield’s storytellers. They were animated, lively, and projected their voices with vocal variety. I hope to see more of that tomorrow!

Dianne settles down the crowd 2-26-09

Dianne settles down the crowd 2-26-09

Pre-K participated in “Going on a Bear Hunt” and other participatory stories. They were fun.

Dianne tells a story to Pre-K 2-26-09

Dianne tells a story to Pre-K 2-26-09

The third graders did a nice job but it was Mr. Boone’s class that stood out. I was very impressed with Mr. Boone’s class (storytellers and chorus), who performed their entire story without scripts. They did a great job. Yay!

Third graders rehearse 2-26-09

Third graders rehearse 2-26-09

After telling stories, singing songs ad having a blast with first grade, second grade, and kindergarten, it was time to rehearse with the 4th graders.

First graders listen to a story 2-26-09

First graders listen to a story 2-26-09

The fourth grade is, right now, the most cohesive group of performers. Ms. Morrow’s story chorus, in the tale of Poucette (Tom Thumb), is the best story chorus I have seen thus far. They added complex dance moves and scarves to their equally strong vocals. Way to go, Ms. Morrow’s 4th grade story chorus (Skitter, skitter, skat…)!!

Ms. Morrow's 4th grade story chorus rocks their story! 2-26-09

Ms. Morrow's 4th grade story chorus rocks their story! 2-26-09

I look forward to seeing how tomorrow’s performances will turn out. I know I am ready! Best wishes, Bissonet Boys and Girls. Make me proud!

Until next time…

Warmly, Dianne

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Book Signing at Hudson Books at New Orleans Int’l Airport – Wednesday, February 25, 2009

by Dianne on February 27, 2009

Johnette Downing (L) and Dianne de Las Casas (R) sign books at Hudson Books at the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport 2-25-09

Johnette Downing (L) and Dianne de Las Casas (R) sign books at Hudson Books at the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport 2-25-09

Friends:

It was so much fun signing books at Hudson Books in the New Orleans International Airport. I signed next to Johnette Downing, Multi-Award Winning Author & Children’s Singer/Songwriter, who also happens to be one of my best friends. I signed The Cajun Cornbread Boy while Johnette signed her books, Chef Creole, My Aunt Came Back, Down in Louisiana, and Today is Monday. Johnette and I sold a nice number of books to passersby, who wanted Louisiana-flavored books as gifts or as keepsakes.

Thank you, Luisa Chinchilla and Rob Schauffler for coordinating this great event. I look forward to returning!

Until next time…

Warmly, Dianne

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Dianne de Las Casas on ABC-26 WGNO Good Morning New Orleans show – Friday, February 20, 2009

by Dianne on February 20, 2009

Welcome to ABC-26 WGNO TV studios 2-20-09

Welcome to ABC-26 WGNO TV studios 2-20-09

Friends:

This morning, I had the privilege of being on the TV news show, Good Morning New Orleans ABC-26 WGNO. I woke up at 4:00 a.m. (I shouldn’t complain – the news crew does it every day, right?!) and drove to the studio located at the Galleria in Metairie, Louisiana. After waiting to be let into the reception area, I was led to the Good Morning New Orleans studio.

Entering the studio areas 2-20-09

Entering the studio areas 2-20-09

I sat down inside the studio, waiting and watching the various news segments.

Dianne waiting to go on inside the studio 2-20-09

Dianne waiting to go on inside the studio 2-20-09

I came in just as they were doing a Mardi Gras segment on carnival cocktails made by the city’s bartender of the year. He made a “mocha” coffee that looked delicious. I, however, did not join in the morning cocktail hour (I do have to teach at a school today!).

Inside the Good Morning New Orleans studio 2-20-09

Inside the Good Morning New Orleans studio 2-20-09

The Good Morning New Orleans news team is a fun, lively group. They play and joke with each other during the breaks and made me feel very at ease. The gorgeous women, Cyndi Nguyen and Anna Adair, made constant eye contact and smiled at me as I waited to go on, even conversing and joking with me. I enjoyed being on the show although my segment felt like a whirlwind!

The entire Good Morning New Orleans team - L to R - Hank Allen (weather), Cyndi Nguyen, Jon Huffman, Anna Adair 2-20-09

The entire Good Morning New Orleans team - L to R - Hank Allen (weather), Cyndi Nguyen, Jon Huffman, Anna Adair 2-20-09

When I went on, I talked about my book and even sang the story’s chorus, “Run, cher, run as fast as you can – You can’t catch me, I’m full of cayenne.” Jon laughed and said, “A little Cajun rap.” They showed the book and really seemed to enjoy my Cajun Cornbread Boy puppet.

Thank you, Good Morning New Orleans and ABC-26 for having me on the show. It was a blast!

Until next time…

Warmly, Dianne

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Louisiana Story Fest Residency @ Bissonet Plaza Elementary – Day 4 Thursday, February 12, 2009

by Dianne on February 16, 2009

Ms. Chieffo's 2nd graders dance Zydeco 2-12-09

Ms. Chieffo's 2nd graders dance Zydeco 2-12-09

Friends:

I had such a good time on Day 4 of my Story Fest residency. It was a late day, with my first class starting at 9:40 am so I took advantage of the extra time and worked out for an hour at home. I came to school refreshed and ready to go! My first class was Ms. Chieffo’s 2nd grade class. They were perfect little angels – so incredibly well-behaved. They listened intently to the tale of The Cajun Cornbread Boy and followed instructions when it came time to explore Louisiana’s Cajun and Zydeco music through scarves, movement, and dance.

2nd graders play the washboard 2-12-09

2nd graders play the washboard 2-12-09

After 2nd grade, I went downstairs to meet Ms. Bonnano’s kindergarten class. They were an enthusiastic, curious group of students who really enjoyed my activities. I told them the story of The Cajun Cornbread Boy and they loved it.

Ms. Dianne shows Ms. Bonnano's Kindergarteners The Cajun Cornbread Boy book 2-12-09

Ms. Dianne shows Ms. Bonnano's Kindergarteners The Cajun Cornbread Boy book 2-12-09

Ms. Bonnano (my first time meeting her) was so sweet and accommodating. Here they are dancing and passing a good time!

Ms. Bonnano's Kindergarteners dance Zydeco

Ms. Bonnano's Kindergarteners dance Zydeco 2-12-09

Then it was on to Mr. Boone’s 3rd grade class. I love Mr. Boone. He is a great teacher who knows how to balance fun and discipline. I arrived a tad early so I helped Mr. Boone finish up his lesson on ABC order. It was fun to “team teach” with Mr. Boone! Afterwards, we transitioned into my activities.

Ms. Dianne walks a "dog" in Mr. Boone's 3rd grade class 2-12-09

Ms. Dianne walks a "dog" in Mr. Boone's 3rd grade class 2-12-09

The class had a blast with the role-playing drama activities. They did a great job.

Mother comforting jilted brides in Mr. Boone's 3rd grade class 2-12-09

Mother comforting jilted brides in Mr. Boone's 3rd grade class 2-12-09

The class was assigned the story rap, “Jackie Rabbit,” and I can’t wait to see Mr. Boone’s class perform it. It is going to be awesome!

After lunch, I visited Ms. Leboutillier’s preschool class. What a sweet group of students! They were ready for me as soon as I walked in! I told them the story of The Cajun Cornbread Boy and they fully participated in all the motions and songs.

Ms. Leboutillier's preschoolers listen to The Cajun Cornbread Boy 2-12-09

Ms. Leboutillier's preschoolers listen to The Cajun Cornbread Boy 2-12-09

Then we explored Louisiana through Cajun and Zydeco music and dance. And did we dance!

Preschoolers second line around the classroom 2-12-09

Preschoolers second line around the classroom 2-12-09

My last class was Ms. Muller’s preschool class. When I arrived, they were all napping. They had been on a field trip in the morning and were zonked out completely. After unsuccessfuly trying to rouse them, we decided it was better to let them rest. Fortunately, I will be visiting their class again.

Friday and Monday were off days for me so I headed for a nice 4 day weekend! I look forward to Week 2 with my Bissonet students.

Until next time…

Warmly, Dianne

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Louisiana Story Fest Residency @ Bissonet Plaza Elementary – Day 3 Wednesday, February 11, 2009

by Dianne on February 11, 2009

Ms. Lemoine's first graders have fun! 2-11-09

Ms. Lemoine's first graders have fun! 2-11-09

Friends:

It was Day 3 of my Louisiana Story Fest residency at Bissonet Plaza Elementary. Ms. Lemoine’s first grade class was my first visit. The students really enjoyed my telling of Cajun Cornbread Boy. They loved the scarf activity and had a ball. Here they are dancing to Zydeco music.

Ms. Lemoine's first graders dance Zydeco 2-11-09

Ms. Lemoine's first graders dance Zydeco 2-11-09

Then it was upstairs to Ms. Vizzini’s second grade class. What a well-controlled group of students. They were quiet, attentive, and cooperative. They listened to me tell The Cajun Cornbread Boy, then we moved into our scarf and music activity.

Ms. Vizzini's 2nd graders dance with scarves 2-11-09

Ms. Vizzini's 2nd graders dance with scarves 2-11-09

Ms. Vizzini joined us, playing the triangle in a Cajun band. You go, Ms. Vizzini!

Ms. Vizzini, 2nd grade teacher plays the triangle 2-11-09

Ms. Vizzini, 2nd grade teacher plays the triangle 2-11-09

With a couple of second graders helping me, we hauled my suitcase to Ms. Bonnano’s Kindergarten class. Ms. Bonnano had such energetic, inquisitive students who really enjoyed our activities. One little girl said, “Can you be our teacher forever?!” So cute!

Ms. Bonnano's Kindergarteners rock the Zydeco! 2-11-09

Ms. Bonnano's Kindergarteners rock the Zydeco! 2-11-09

Then it was off to Ms. Massa’s third grade class. They were a wonderful group of students who really listened and participated in the activity.

Ms. Massa's third graders play women walking their dogs in Central Park 2-11-09

Ms. Massa's third graders play women walking their dogs in Central Park 2-11-09

I had so much fun because the students really enjoyed the activities. Creativity abounded in this classroom!

Ms. Massa's third graders portray a bus full of bad students 2-11-09

Ms. Massa's third graders portray a bus full of bad students 2-11-09

After lunch, I went to Ms. Naugle’s 4th grade class. I love Ms. Naugle – she has been one of my favorite Strehle teachers for years. She is passionate about teaching and never shuns away from something new. This year, she has a technology integrated classroom – she has a website, an accessible E-board, an interactive blog, and even engages her students in video chat lesson plan exchanges with students from other schools around the country. Wow!

Ms. Naugle’s class was so excited about the activity that it was a challenge to get them to settle down between roles. But the class was bursting with creativity and I saw some exceptional work.

Ms. Naugle's 4th graders play a mother comforting her daughter, the jilted bride 2-11-09

Ms. Naugle's 4th graders play a mother comforting her daughter, the jilted bride 2-11-09

Here are some students who worked so well in their group.

Ms. Naugle's 4th graders portray a restaurant scene 2-11-09

Ms. Naugle's 4th graders portray a restaurant scene 2-11-09

After 4th grade, it was time for my last class – 5th grade. When I first came into the room, they were quiet and attentive. But once we shed the structure of the classroom and moved into the drama activity, they lost self-control. It was the first time I had to terminate the scarf activity. They did get to do individual role-playing exercises but were not able to do partner work.

Ms. Brumfield's last period fifth grade class portray a boy who was caught stealing an apple from the neighbor's tree 2-11-09

Ms. Brumfield's last period fifth grade class portray a boy who was caught stealing an apple from the neighbor's tree 2-11-09

I was disappointed in this bright group of 5th graders because I can see such potential in their young faces. I look forward to seeing how they will conduct themselves the next time I work with them.

That’s what teaching is about. There are joys and there are challenges. Ultimately, the joys outweigh the challenges and I love seeing the students’ faces light up when they are enjoying themselves and learning something new.

Until next time…

Warmly, Dianne

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Bissonet Plaza Elementary Louisiana Story Fest Residency – Monday, February 9, 2009

by Dianne on February 9, 2009

Telling stories to Ms. Ragusa's First Graders

Telling stories to Ms. Ragusa's First Graders 2-9-09

Friends:

Today was my first day of my Louisiana Story Fest Residency at Bissonet Plaza Elementary School. I have been doing an artist residency at this school for 7 years now. They are one of my favorite schools. For this residency, I am sharing Louisiana culture through its folk stories. For grades PK through 2, I tell a Louisiana tale and then we explore Louisiana music through movement, dance, and colorful scarves. It’s so much fun.

First graders explore Zydeco music with movement and scarves 2-9-09

First graders explore Zydeco music with movement and scarves 2-9-09

My day began in Ms. Ragusa’s first grade class. They were a delightful and enthusiastic group of students. I told my story of The Cajun Cornbread Boy and they loved it. Then we explored Louisiana’s Zydeco and Cajun music through movement, dance and scarves.

Ms. Ragusa's first graders dancing Zydeco 2-9-09

Ms. Ragusa's first graders dancing Zydeco 2-9-09

Then it was off to Ms. Presser’s second grade class. What a phenomenal group of well-behaved students. They had a blast participating in the telling of The Cajun Cornbread Boy. We even had a lesson comparing Cornbread Boy to the Gingerbread Man.

A Cajun Cornbread Boy lesson with Ms. Presser's bright second grade students 2-9-09

A Cajun Cornbread Boy lesson with Ms. Presser's bright second grade students 2-9-09

They loved doing my drama activity, role-playing with scarves and dancing Zydeco. Ms. Presser is the kind of teacher I would have loved – her passion is displayed in the classroom and in her students.

Ms. Presser's second graders dance Zydeco 2-9-09

Ms. Presser's second graders dance Zydeco 2-9-09

After second grade, it was downstairs to see Ms. Johnson’s kindergarten class. We had fun with The Cajun Cornbread Boy, singing the refrain, “Run, cher, run as fast as you can! You can’t catch me – I’m full of cayenne!” Even Ms. Johnson was joining in! The children had a blast with the scarves.

Ms. Johnson's Kindergarteners dance with scarves to Zydeco 2-9-09

Ms. Johnson's Kindergarteners dance with scarves to Zydeco 2-9-09

My last class before lunch was Ms. Frechette’s third grade class. I normally don’t tell stories to the upper grades but Ms. Frechette is special and her class is so well-behaved so I told The Cajun Cornbread Boy to them. Ms. Frechette was kind enough to lend me her microphone, which made my job so much easier! Thank you, Ms. Frechette! The students loved the story. Then we did our scarf role playing activity.

Third grade mother comforting the daughter, the bride who has been jilted 2-9-09

Third grade mother comforting the daughter, the bride who has been jilted 2-9-09

Here I am with one of Ms. Frechette’s fabulous third graders. One of her students told me, “Ms. Dianne, you made my year!” How’s that for a warm fuzzy?! :)

Ms. Dianne with a third grader playing a bride 2-9-09

Ms. Dianne with a third grader playing a bride 2-9-09

After lunch, I headed upstairs to Ms. Morales’ 4th grade class. What a blast! I just love Ms. Morales. She is so much fun and her students were awesome! I showed them The Cajun Cornbread Boy book and they were amazed that I wrote it. :) Ms. Morales was excited about exploring Louisiana culture through its folk stories. Their story was “Jean Sotte (Foolish John).” First, we did our role-play exercise with the scarves.Even Ms. Morales got into the action, playing a high society woman walking her dog in Central Park.

4th grade teacher Ms. Morales walks her dog 2-9-09

4th grade teacher Ms. Morales walks her dog 2-9-09

Afterwards, I assigned roles for the parts in our story theater script, which they will perform in a couple of weeks, as a class.

My last class of the day was Mr. Joyce’s 5th grade class. These 5th graders were quite a challenge because they were so chatty. They had a difficult time following instructions because they simply didn’t listen. Once we moved into the drama activity, they had fun but they still had a hard time focusing because they socialize so much.

Mr. Joyce's 5th graders play a mother comforting her daughter, the jilted bride 2-9-09

Mr. Joyce's 5th graders play a mother comforting her daughter, the jilted bride 2-9-09

We didn’t even have time to assign roles for their story. All in all, it was a wonderful day. Bissonet Plaza has a special place in my heart. Thank you, Ellen Miller (librarian), for always bringing me back!

Until next time…

Warmly, Dianne

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The Cajun Cornbread Boy Book Signing at A Tisket A Tasket in the French Quarter – Sunday, February 8, 2009

by Dianne on February 8, 2009

The Cajun Cornbread Boy in the Window of A Tisket A Tasket in the French Quarter, New Orleans 2-8-09

The Cajun Cornbread Boy in the Window of A Tisket A Tasket in the French Quarter, New Orleans 2-8-09

Friends:

I had a phenomenal book signing at A Tisket A Tasket gift store in the New Orleans French Quarter. Marita Gentry, the talented illustrator of the book, was with me. Lisa Jones, the owner of the store set up a table outside on the sidewalk in front of the store. I told the story live as Marita drew the characters on a large pad. We had quite a crowd gather. It was my first time “street performing” in New Orleans! LOL Afterwards, we signed books.

The Cajun Cornbread Boy, Dianne de Las Casas & Marita Gentry posing with a fan 2-8-09

The Cajun Cornbread Boy, the Gator, Dianne de Las Casas & Marita Gentry posing with a fan 2-8-09

It was nonstop for the two hours we were there. We never stopped signing books. Yay! Lisa was such a gracious hostess and even invited me to come back and sign books on the last weekend of Jazz Fest (first weekend in May).

Marita Gentry, Lisa Jones of A Tisket A Tasket & Dianne de Las Casas 2-8-09

Marita Gentry, Lisa Jones of A Tisket A Tasket & Dianne de Las Casas 2-8-09

After my book signing, my family and I went walking in the French Quarter. Eliana (my 8 year old) and her cousin, Camrynn (9 years old) had their faces painted. Too cute!

Face Painting Clown with Eliana & Camrynn in the French Quarter 2-8-09

Face Painting Woman with Eliana & Camrynn in the French Quarter 2-8-09

We walked around on Decatur Street. I wanted to take pictures as research for my next children’s picture book with Marita, Madame Poule’ and Monsieur Roach, awhich is set in the New Orleans French Quarter.

New Orleans French Quarter 2-8-09

New Orleans French Quarter 2-8-09

It was a gorgeous day with temperatures in the 70s. Tourists and locals alike were milling about. It was the perfect day to tour the French Quarter and the French Market.

New Orleans French Market 2-8-09

New Orleans French Market 2-8-09

After walking around, we ate at Fiorella’s, famous for their fried chicken. Then we had beignets at Cafe’ Du Monde. It was a great day!

Until next time…

Warmly, Dianne

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Author Visit at South Highlands Magnet School – Friday, February 6, 2009

by Dianne on February 7, 2009

Katie & Caitlyn, Sales Team from Pelican Publishing Co. 2-5-09

Katie & Caitlin, Sales Team from Pelican Publishing Co. 2-5-09

Friends:

On Thursday, February 5, 2009, I stopped at my publisher’s office to pick up some books for my school visit on Friday. I gave the ladies on the sales and promotional team a special present from me and Marita Gentry, the illustrator of The Cajun Cornbread Boy. I asked Marita to create a necklace of The Cajun Cornbread Boy, which she did, out of Shrinky Dink. They came out so cute.

Then it was time to hit the road, Jack. I had to travel 5.5 hours to Shreveport, Louisiana for a Friday school visit at South Highlands Magnet School. I arrived at the hotel with 45 minutes to spare before my client, Jeannie Machowski, picked me up for dinner at Bella Fresca. Dinner was a blast. There were 7 of us altogether including the school’s principal, Keith Burton. What a fantastic group of teachers to hang out with! Plus, the food was divine. There was lots of laughter, stories (That’s Just My Baby Granddaddy! – Thanks for that one, Brenda!), and one of every dessert.

Dianne performs at South Highlands Magnet School 2-6-09

Dianne performs at South Highlands Magnet School 2-6-09

I did two shows for approximately 500 students. The first show was for K-2. The second show was for Grades 3-5.

Grades 3-5 at South Highlands Magnet School 2-6-09

Grades 3-5 at South Highlands Magnet School 2-6-09

For the first show, I told The Cajun Cornbread Boy. Then we did my song, Peanut Butter and Jelly Jam. I also told Rockin Three Billy Goats, and finally, with teachers on stage as my backup band, Tiger’s Tale, Anansi’s Stories. It was fun, participatory and the kids really rocked out.

Afterwards, I signed books and CDs for the students and teachers in the first assembly. Then it was off to lunch.

Dianne de Las Casas with Ms. Shaw's Busy Bees at South Highlands Magnet School 2-6-09

Dianne de Las Casas with Ms. Shaw's Busy Bees at South Highlands Magnet School 2-6-09

They ordered me a special pizza from a local eatery. My box said “Dianne Pep.” LOL That’s me! After lunch, I had my second assembly program for the upper grades. I began with The Cajun Cornbread Boy, sang My Aunt Came Back, told Anansi Shares Wisdom with the World, and ended with The Ghost of Mabel Gable. The show was a HUGE hit with the kids. They were so responsive. At the end, they gave me rock star signs with their hands and told me, “You rock!” Well guess what?! South Highlands Elementary rocks too!

Many of the teachers told me how much they enjoyed the show and the librarian said that several of the teachers said I was the best author that ever visited their school. Wow! That’s quite an honor because they have had an impressive list of authors.

Here is a picture of Sonia, me and Jeannie Machowski, the awesome librarian!

Sonia, Dianne & Jeannie at South Highlands Magnet School

Sonia, Dianne & Jeannie at South Highlands Magnet School 2-6-09

I signed more books and then packed up. It was such a wonderful visit. South Highlands definitely goes on my list of favorite schools. You’ve earned a place in my heart! I love schools that celebrate good books!

Celebrate Good Books bulletin board 2-6-09

Celebrate Good Books bulletin board 2-6-09

Happy Tales to You!

Until next time…

Warmly, Dianne

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The Cajun Cornbread Boy Book Signing at Octavia Books – Wednesday, February 4, 2009

by Dianne on February 7, 2009

Marita Gentry Illustrates as Dianne de Las Casas tells The Cajun Cornbread Boy at Octavia Books 2-4-09

Marita Gentry Illustrates as Dianne de Las Casas tells The Cajun Cornbread Boy at Octavia Books 2-4-09

Friends:

I had the most amazing book signing experience at Octavia Books in the Garden District in New Orleans. Tom and Judith, the owners, were so wonderful and such gracious hosts.

Marita Gentry, illustrator of The Cajun Cornbread Boy, drew the pictures live as I told the story. I had the crowd laughing, giggling and participating in the story. It was a blast! Afterwards, Marita gave the drawings away to the kids in the crowd. How cool is that?!

Marita Gentry & Dianne de Las Casas pose with fans at Octavia Books 2-4-09

Marita Gentry & Dianne de Las Casas pose with fans at Octavia Books 2-4-09

We signed books for about 2 hours. I just love Tom and Judith, who made Marita and I feel so welcome.

Dianne de Las Casas & Marita Gentry sign books at Octavia Books in New Orleans 2-4-09

Dianne de Las Casas & Marita Gentry sign books at Octavia Books in New Orleans 2-4-09

Eliana, my little 8 year old, fell in love with Pippin, Octavia’s resident dog. Now she wants a puppy! LOL

Eliana falls in love with Pippin, the resident dog of Octavia Books 2-4-09

Eliana falls in love with Pippin, the resident dog of Octavia Books 2-4-09

What a wonderful experience for all of us. Thank you, Octavia Books! We love you!

Until next time…

Warmly, Dianne

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Merry Christmas Eve! Wednesday, December 24, 2008

by Dianne on December 25, 2008

Most beautiful angel on the Tree, Soleil's Angel de Lis - 12-24-08

Most beautiful angel on the Tree, Soleil's Angel de Lis - 12-24-08

Friends:

As I write this post it is already Christmas in Louisiana! On December 24, 2008, Christmas Eve, we spent the day preparing. We went to church and then to my mother’s house. My 18-year-old daughter, Soleil, gave me a gift that truly touched my heart. She spent hours making me a hand-sculpted and hand-painted Angel ornament (I collect angel ornaments for my Christmas tree). This “Angel de Lis” as I have named her, is exquisite. She is about the size of my hand and so light weight. She holds a heart and is in the shape of a fleur de lis, the symbol of New Orleans and Louisiana. Soleil completely designed and created her just for me. So Angel de Lis is one of a kind and looks so much like Soleil, with her golden hair and twinkling blue eyes! I will cherish the ornament forever and it will remain one of my very favorite angels! I was so touched by Soleil’s thoughtfulness and Christmas spirit that I cried. I love you, Soleil!

Soleil on 12-23-08

Soleil on 12-23-08

Eliana was so excited that Santa was coming. She made No Bake Reindeer Patty Cookies for Santa. Visit her blog for the recipe (http://www.elianacooks.com).

Cookies for Santa from Eliana - 12-24-08

Cookies for Santa from Eliana - 12-24-08

So on this gorgeous Christmas eve, I leave you with my favorite Christmas Poem by Clement C. Moore:

The Night Before Christmas

Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house

Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse

Christmas Tree - 12-24-08

Christmas Tree - 12-24-08

The stockings were hung by the chimney with care

In the hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there

Dianne & Antonio's Stockings - 12-24-08

Dianne & Antonio's Stockings - 12-24-08

Mama in her kerchief and I in my cap

Had just settled our brains for a long winter’s nap

Dianne in her Santa Saints cap - 12-24-08

Dianne in her Santa Saints cap - 12-24-08

When out on the lawn, there arose such a clatter

I sprang from my bed to see what was the matter

Away to the window I flew like a flash

Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash

The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow

Gave a luster of mid-day to objects below

Blanket of White Snow in New Orleans - 12-12-08

Blanket of White Snow in New Orleans - 12-12-08

When what to my wondering eyes should appear

A miniature sleigh and eight tiny reindeer

With a little old driver so lively and quick

I knew in a moment it must be St. Nick

Eliana's Christmas Play Dough Scene - 12-23-08

Eliana's Christmas Play Dough Scene - 12-23-08

More rapid than eagles his coursers they came

And he whistled and shouted and called them by name

On Dasher, on Dancer, on Prancer, on Vixen

On Comet, on Cupid, on Donder, on Blitzen

To the top of the porch, to the top of the wall

Now dash away, dash away, dash away all!

As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly

When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky

So up to the housetop the coursers they flew

With a sleigh full of toys and St. Nicholas too

Eliana in front of Santa & Reindeer Lakeside Mall - 12-6-08

Eliana in front of Santa & Reindeer Lakeside Mall - 12-6-08

And then in a twinkling, I heard on the roof

The prancing and pawing of each little hoof

Soleil & Eliana's Gingerbread House 12-13-08

Soleil & Eliana's Gingerbread House 12-13-08

As I drew in my head and was turning around

Down the chimney St. Nicholas came with a bound

He was dressed all in fur from his head to his foot

And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot

A bundle of toys he had flung on his back

And he looked like a peddler just opening his sack

His eyes how they twinkled, his dimples how merry

His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry

His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow

And the beard of his chin was as white as the snow

Mrs. Clause, Ashlynn, Eliana, Camrynn, Jourdan, Santa Claus, Soleil & Jasmynn - 12-13-08

Mrs. Claus, Ashlynn, Eliana, Camrynn, Jourdan, Santa Claus, Soleil & Jasmynn - 12-13-08

He had a broad face and a round little belly

That shook when he laughed like a bowl full of jelly

He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf

And I laughed when I saw him in spite of myself

Eliana with the Northpole Penguins - 12-6-08

Eliana with the Northpole Penguins - 12-6-08

But a wink of his eye and a twist of his head

Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread

He spoke not a word but went straight to his work

Filled all the stockings, then turned with a jerk

Soleil & Eliana's stockings stuffed by Santa - 12-24-08

Soleil & Eliana's stockings stuffed by Santa - 12-24-08

Then laying a finger aside of his nose

Giving a nod up the chimney he rose

He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle

And away they all flew like the down of a thistle

But I heard him exclaim as he drove out of sight

Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!

The Cajun Cornbread Boy Holiday book signing - 12-20-08

The Cajun Cornbread Boy Holiday book signing - 12-20-08

Merry Christmas from our family to yours! Happy Holidays from Antonio, Dianne, Soleil, Eliana & the Cajun Cornbread Boy!

Until next time…

May your days be merry and bright!

Warmly, Dianne

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