Author Archives: Annalisa Hall

About Annalisa Hall

@HelpfulAnnalisa

Happy Thanksgiving!!

Sheppard’s Last Lamb, illustrated by Alex Worthen is on sale at https://www.cedarfort.com/products/sheppards-last-lamb-hardcover

From the author of THE HOLY GHOST IS LIKE A BLANKET and I WANT TO BE BAPTIZED, this children’s book will help you follow your heart and accept the challenges of your life in a new empowering way. In this book, Sheppard Hill wants to be a wise man or an innkeeper in the Christmas pageant, but instead, he gets stuck as a boring shepherd—all because of his name! What’s even worse, he’s stuck helping his younger sisters too. But when he begins to think of Christ, can he turn this terrible turn of events into the best Christmas pageant ever?

AND MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!!

The Holy Ghost

THE HOLY GHOST IS LIKE A BLANKET,” by Annalisa Hall, illustrated by Corey EgbertCedar Fort, (ages 8-10)

As children are baptized into The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, they are then confirmed members of the church and blessed with the Holy Ghost.

That intangible notion can be confusing to an 8-year or older being, but Annalisa Hall and Corey Egbert portray caring parents using 12 real-life constants that can be compared to the Holy Ghost’s spirit.

“The Holy Ghost is like the wind. You can feel the wind’s power….You can feel the Holy Ghost in your heart…”

“The Holy Ghost is like a blanket. He is a special gift …to wrap you in a warm and comforting feeling when you are sad or need a friend.”

In end notes, the author has included scriptural references and appropriate song titles to correspond to each of the 12 objects in the book.

https://www.deseret.com/2013/10/13/20527376/book-review-the-holy-ghost-is-compared-to-real-life-constructs-in-a-child-s-life

#HolyGhost #Children #PictureBook #Illustrator #Comforter #Spirit #Read #GoodWorks #Literature #NonFiction #Intangible #Empower #Youth #Twelve

The Holy Ghost is Like a Blanket was originally published in October 2013 by Cedar Fort Inc. / Bonneville

Endorsed by: “Teaching our children about the Holy Ghost and inspiration is one of the most important things we do as parents. This book is perfect…!” — Merrilee Boyack, Author of The Parenting Breakthrough and Book of Mormon Children Stories

“… Respectful without losing kid appeal, The Holy Ghost is Like a Blanket will bring this quiet concept within reach for little readers eager to learn.” —Kelly Milner Halls, Writer

“The Holy Ghost Is Like A Blanket by Annalisa Hall is inspirational, timely, and a must-share with your children.” —Laura Taylor, Award-Winning Author & Editor

“… “Brilliant!” … It’s perfect for children about to be baptized. It put into words ways I have felt the Holy Ghost, but haven’t been able to fully articulate.” — Selena Pankretz

“Heartwarming and beautifully illustrated, children will immediately be drawn into its pages. The book is sure to become a family favorite.” — Rebecca Rode, author of How to Have Peace When You’re Falling to Pieces

“In this brave little book, Hall and Egbert somehow find a way to make the intangible tangible– and that’s anything but an easy feat.” — Bob Staake, Author/Illustrator

“…both a great introduction to and a great reminder of the comfort and power of the Holy Ghost…” Justin & Amy Hackworth, Photographer & Writer

“A beautiful book with an uplifting message for children and adults alike.” —Sheri Fink, International Best-Selling, Award-winning Author of The Little Rose

“…The illustrations are warm and inviting and the language is simple and clear, perfect for parents to read at bedtime or whenever they’d like to invite the gentle spirit into their home….” – Lehua Parker, author of One Boy, No Water

“Never before has there been such a complete comprehensive children’s book on the Holy Ghost, and for all ages. Unlike most children’s books, this book is full of scripture references, it teaches my children to study the scriptures and source truth at any age.  This is my new baptismal gift for every child, better yet, a gift for any child entering primary!” — Suzanne Calton, founder of More Than Aware

Sheppard’s Last Lamb

Sheppard, because of his name, ends up playing the less-than-glamorous role of the shepherd in his class’s Christmas pageant.

12 little lambs are found as Sheppard problem solves his way through shepherding his role as a good steward of his part in the Christmas pageant.

Easter Sunday approaches and this book would be a delightful additional to your household and book shelf.

Sheppard Hill wants to be a wise man or an innkeeper in the Christmas pageant, but instead he gets stuck as a boring shepherd-all because of his name! What’s even worse, he’s stuck helping his younger sisters too. But when he begins to think of Christ, can he turn this terrible turn of events into the best Christmas pageant ever?

“The Shepherd and the Lost Sheep” by Margo Mae (ARTICLE)

From Matthew 18:12–14 and Luke 15:3–7.

“Jesus taught people by telling them stories. …One day one of the sheep got lost. …When he finally found his sheep, the shepherd rejoiced. He put the sheep on his shoulders and carried it home. The shepherd called his friends together and told them how he had found his sheep. They celebrated together. [like Easter Sunday and Christmas Pageant celebrations] …”Jesus Christ is like the shepherd in the story, and we are like the sheep. Jesus watches over us and helps protect us from danger. …That is why the scriptures call Him the Good Shepherd.” Illustrations were by David Habben

Celebrate the Good Shepherd with SHEPPARD’S LAST LAMB by Annalisa Hall, illustrated by Alex Worthen

What does it take to be a good shepherd? Dress in the shepherd’s costume, act like the good shepherd, or finding sheep?

SHEPPARD’S LAST LAMB is about joy. Sheppard isn’t pleased he’s the SHEPHERD for the Christmas nativity performance, but he knows shepherds were special witnesses of Jesus Christ. He is given a toy lamb, he finds many more until his flock is whole, and this story teaches how the Good Shepherd is helpful, important, and kind. A lesson for children and adults alike to remember that we’re not whole until each one has been found, even the last lamb.

SHEPPARD’S LAST LAMB inspires children to embrace courage, kindness, and charity. Follow Christ like sheep follow their shepherd. Find and seek those weary and lost friends who need us.

THEMES Include: Christmas, Charity, Love, Self-Esteem, Tolerance, Problem Solving, Embracing and Accepting Yourself, Authenticity, Diversity

Also, lends for discussion about Jesus Christ, shepherds, sheep and lambs, Missionary Work, Search and Rescue, Hide and Seek

#Shepherd #Easter #Christmas #GoodShepherd #Children #Book #Illustration #Pageant #Angel #Zuri #Wheelchair #Cane #Sheppard #Story #Parable #Lost #Lamb #ProblemSolving #Empower #Cheer #Good #Literature #SCBWI

I WANT …

my books from a Target Super Store? Yes!! Click the link to buy my book direct from TARGET https://www.target.com/p/i-want-to-be-baptized-by-annalisa-hall-hardcover/-/A-85999532

Help your little ones recognize the joy, responsibility, and importance of being baptized. I Want to Be Baptized from the same author and illustrator who brought you The Holy Ghost Is like a Blanket depicts what baptism really means for children’s lives.

I WANT TO BE BAPTIZED is the prequel to THE HOLY GHOST IS LIKE A BLANKET and can help your loved ones be comforted by their promises and pathway toward eternal life. With illustrations by COREY EGBERT, this book delights the mind and soul.

Annalisa Hall was born to Alvin and Judy Holgerson, while her father worked at General Motors in Detroit. She was raised in her parent’s religion, and baptized a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on her 8th birthday. She currently lives in Poway, CA, with her husband and their children.

BOOK REVIEW:: Aug 06, 2017 (3 Stars by J. Strong) Bookshelves: 2017children-sreligious-lds “This book explains to children in simple terms why baptism is important. While I like the overall points made as to why baptism is important and why we should be baptized, but I felt the explanations were a little long. In the back of the book there are references for each reason. I wish these had been included at the bottom of each page to give the explanations more weight.”

#Target #Shopping #Books #ChildrensLiterature #Review #Church #Baptism #Baptized #Lesson #Water #Soul #Eight #Great #Illustration #Peace #Choice #YouthBaptisms #iWANT #Option #Learning #ChildOfGod

Happiness & Books

The joy of reading comes to those who practice quietly in their corner of the bookstore.

A bright book needs no nightlight.

Cheerful banter is better than boring chatter.

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WOW! it’s been quite the 2022 and books are bountiful. Sheppard’s Last Lamb may be part of a series. The Baptism and Holy Ghost book sets are on sale. English, Portuguese, eBook, and Spanish are available 🙂

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Happiness & Books my friends. Continue reading, writing and enjoying books.

Together

Lately, I’ve been working with my counselors in the Primary Presidency of our local ward / congregation at Church to find a solution to the words and phrases of the scriptures:

expedient that the church meet together often, D&C 20:75 (20:55–75).

when ye are assembled together, D&C 43:8.

go to the house of prayer … upon my holy day, D&C 59:9 (59:9–13).

-AND- then, trying to abide by the 12th Article of Faith which states: We believe in being subject to kings, presidents, rulers, and magistrates, in obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law.

Today, is my Sabbath day. It’s the day by which all other things in my life are prepared and pondered and adjusted for that week and as I assess my previous week and look forward to the next, I take count of my blessings.

I take count of my blessings. My sorrows, my joys, my improvements, my shortfalls.

-AND- then, trying to abide by the Prophet’s words:

April 2018 – President Russell M. Nelson, “The Prophet Joseph Smith set a pattern for us to follow in resolving our questions. Drawn to the promise of James that if we lack wisdom we may ask of God,8 the boy Joseph took his question directly to Heavenly Father. He sought personal revelation, and his seeking opened this last dispensation.

In like manner, what will your seeking open for you? What wisdom do you lack? What do you feel an urgent need to know or understand? Follow the example of the Prophet Joseph. Find a quiet place where you can regularly go. Humble yourself before God. Pour out your heart to your Heavenly Father. Turn to Him for answers and for comfort.

Pray in the name of Jesus Christ about your concerns, your fears, your weaknesses—yes, the very longings of your heart. And then listen! Write the thoughts that come to your mind. Record your feelings and follow through with actions that you are prompted to take. As you repeat this process day after day, month after month, year after year, you will “grow into the principle of revelation.” – Chapter 10: Prayer and Personal Revelation, Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith.

And I clung to the words of the Prophet that said, “I urge you to stretch beyond your current spiritual ability to receive personal revelation,” and I heard him. And I realized that likening the scriptures to my own life was actually looking into my life and making greater efforts to be a better human being.

And I searched scriptures and talks and found my way to living the Gospel of Jesus Christ. And I understand what Elder Yoon Hwan Choi of the Seventy meant when he said, “my father taught me that the gospel had been restored and it is perfect but members are not yet, neither himself nor me. He firmly said, “Do not lose your faith because of the people around you, but build a strong relationship with Jesus Christ. Don’t look around, look up!”

Look up to Jesus Christ—the wise advice of my father—strengthens my faith whenever I face challenges in life. He taught me how to apply the teachings of Christ, as in these words: “Look unto me in every thought; doubt not, fear not.” –

Doctrine and Covenants 6:21,36
Doctrine and Covenants

21 Behold, I am Jesus Christ, the Son of God. I am the same that came unto mine own, and mine own received me not. I am the light which shineth in darkness, and the darkness comprehendeth it not.

36 Look unto me in every thought; doubt not, fear not.

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Be of good cheer my friends & happy reading!

Love,

Annalisa

Annalisa Hall is the author of SHEPPARD’S LAST LAMB, illustrated by Alex Worthen, published October 11th 2016 by Bonneville / Cedar Fort Inc.

What does it take to be a good shepherd? Dress in the shepherd’s costume, act like the good shepherd, or finding sheep?

SHEPPARD’S LAST LAMB is about joy. Sheppard isn’t pleased he’s the SHEPHERD for the Christmas nativity performance, but he knows shepherds were special witnesses of Jesus Christ. He is given a toy lamb, he finds many more until his flock is whole, and this story teaches how the Good Shepherd is helpful, important, and kind. A lesson for children and adults alike to remember that we’re not whole until each one has been found, even the last lamb.

SHEPPARD’S LAST LAMB inspires children to embrace courage, kindness, and charity. Follow Christ like sheep follow their shepherd. Find and seek those weary and lost friends who need us.

THEMES Include: Christmas, Charity, Love, Self-Esteem, Tolerance, Problem Solving, Embracing and Accepting Yourself, Authenticity, Diversity, Easter, Jesus Christ, Atonement, Savior, Lamb of God, Lamb and the Lion, Zion

Also, lends for discussion about Jesus Christ, shepherds, sheep and lambs, Missionary Work, Search and Rescue, Hide and Seek

Rain or Shine

Rain or Shine, the past year or two I’ve been busy enjoying the stories and illustrations of my fellow colleagues, bright children’s book authors, and clever illustrators.

Whether you’re hiding away at home from the rain, or outdoor in the sunshine, there’s a lot of good books worth reading, viewing, and sharing.

What are some of your recommendations?

Your Love

About a week before his 7th birthday, my son asked for a very specific style cake. I fretted and worried about how to make the cake he wanted within our budget. So the journey began…I opted to do cupcakes. I bought a pineapple. I did buy fancy candles to match the underwater jelly fish theme. I followed the Spirit and bought a few things and then laid them out on the kitchen counter and fretted some more. For hours, I baked, I carved, I decorated, I was inspired and I cried in hopes it would turn out.

His brother kept saying ‘Wow’ and his friends said ‘Wow’ and I was pretty proud that I had pulled something off that was slightly impressive for 3 hrs of work. When it was L’s turn, he knew it wasn’t what he’d asked for. Disheartening was the fact that I knew it wasn’t exactly what he’d wanted, but it was still amazing. Even at 7 yrs old, he knew that I’d spent a lot of time in the kitchen that day. He knew I had tried my best. I had presented something I hoped he’d appreciate because I’ve got my own set of handicaps and struggles about following directions and asking questions. Regardless of my deficiencies, He smiled up at me.

Placing his hand on my shoulder as I sat on the couch in exhaustion, he said; “Its not about the greatness. Its about your love.” and he gave me a hug.

He recognized and reminded me that I’d put a lot of LOVE into making it. That was good enough! I needed to remember that it wasn’t about me, it was about him. It was about following the Spirit and making something for him within my abilities (although I was stretched at times and leaned on the Lord for help). It was about showing my love for my son and making him smile on his 7th birthday. It was about LOVE.

Your efforts are appreciated. Your love is more great than cupcakes 🙂 Loves!!

#Cupcake #SpongeBOB #Birthday #Children #Empower #Love #Birthday #Hug

Mastering Storytelling

My father would sometimes take us to visit his place of work, a studio shaping clay models of cars.  My sisters and I would get to explore the drawers of tools, markers, and clay.  We’d crossed through elegant spacious rooms filled with drafting tables, huge sheets of white paper, and every color of pencil imaginable. Sneaking peeks of the works laid out by designers were often sleek and vibrant concept cars or yachts in neon, purples and oranges that made us giggle at such outlandish ideas for trucks, sedans and minivans. Into his work space, my father’s desk would be covered in canary yellow sheets with fine point black pen scribblings of circles, ovals and boulders. A rolling set of drawers housed his treasured tools – the rounded metal shapes, the wooden dowels, and other handcrafted gear that would sometimes match those drawings from his desk. These tools were his ticket to mastering and perfecting shapes.

At home the crafting, sculpting and artistry never ended. He’d pick up stones from the beach, pebbles from the driveway and find the curves he’d expand, expound and experiment with at work. Mugs, vases, and sculptures made on the potter’s wheel, out of plaster molds, or carved out of lumber scraps abounded the spaces and shelves of sheds out back. My sisters and I would interrupt him to play with clay, help with art projects, and hear stories. We’d craft messes and discover the vast collection of colors and glazes that would later become decorations on my mother’s walls or gifts to grandparents. My parents do not have college degrees nor have they possessed sports cars like the one’s my father help resurrect from paper and form into a shape that we’d see a few years later on the road.

But there were quiet moments of learning, reflection and study by faith. It was in one of these quiet moments in my father’s studio that I began to conjure my own shapes and stories. I recall one day he’d lined up a row of raw porcelain vases and was preparing them for the kiln.  His process was to reach for a vase in the first stages of formation, use a brush and coat it with a thick layer of glaze; then, slip it gracefully onto a rack for drying. If all went well, those grey painted vases would make it into the kiln for firing and they’d return as glossy colorful pieces.

As with everything in life, things don’t go according to plan. Sometimes a vase would fall from his fingers and shatter on the concrete floor of the garage. He wouldn’t yell or stop though. He’d simply reach for another vase and say, “No sense in worrying about that.” Even when every single piece would return from the kiln broken or warped or twisted, he’d take a breath and say, “Well, that didn’t turn out exactly as I’d planned.” Nothing was wasted, not even the broken pieces.  He’d scrap those into buckets for various uses or save the really “ugly” pieces as a reminder. He would keep creating more works of art. He’d continue, even when hundreds of attempts seemed to be unsuccessful.

When my father retired, he was a Master Sculptor. His skill technique and patience acquired over thirty years with shapes and proportion and visual perfection formed not only a lifetime of mastery, but a masterful way of teaching his children to forge their own paths by doing better. It’s the remembrance of those imperfect stones, rocks, scribbles and details that I find my ability to create, motivate and aspire to shape my own life one step at a time.

Listen & Learn

The Holy Ghost is like a book.

A book uses words and pictures to teach. When you ask for help, the Holy Ghost helps you remember what to say and do. . .

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The Holy Ghost is Like a Blanket by Annalisa Hall, illustrated by Corey Egbert

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I like to take a book to the beach with me. Sometimes I read the book, sometimes I just listen to the world around me. The ocean waves, the seagulls, people walking, cars behind me. . . and the world is noisy and quiet all at the same time.   When I focus on one thing, I ignore other things, but what I read, I learn. When I listen, I find that I’m either hunting for something or nothing. Therefore, I was thinking about how we learn from reading books and listening to the world around us. Just a few thoughts – – I wish you a very happy day!

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