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mar's Desk

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marcoujor: Tea Time Pastimes

7/25/2016

17 Comments

 
Picture
Mike Friedman, of Mockingbird Books, was kind enough to send me his thoughts on Sannel Larson's latest book, Teatime Pastimes: Adult Coloring Book.

Imagine my surprise when the mail arrived and a package, addressed from Mockingbird Books, was amongst the bills. The package was from abroad, which added to the mystery. When I opened it, I found a book, my favorite thing, even higher on my list of favorites than Rocky Road ice cream. Not only a book, a book signed by the author. In this case, the author is Sannel Larson.

Many of you may know Sannel Larson. I first knew of her from a website named Hubpages. She was moving away from there, just about the time I was arriving. Word of her and her talents remained, in her wake. She is a gifted writer, illustrator, and photographer.


Her children’s books, Bea's Busy Day, Tim and His Out-Of-This-World Adventure, Angels can be silly and playful too!, You Are Perfect Just the Way You Are, and Melvin. . . Bad, bad kitten! has made my Christmas shopping for nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great-grandchildren easy, for several years now.

She also has created beautiful illustrations for, Sunnie Day’s, An Angel and a Pair of Shoes, Vinaya Ghimire’s, Amazing Alphabet, Leah Woods’, Shelby's Closet: Personal Prayers To Jesus, In Jesus' House, and Ramona The Reindeer.  If I missed any, my apologies.

Back to my book, well, her book.

Teatime Pastimes - Adult Coloring Book: Stress-Relieving / Fun Tea Themed Designs to Color (Volume 1)

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​I see that the pages are numbered through 56. The reverse side is blank, to prevent bleed through to your next artistic creation. The pages are a large 8 x 11.5 inches for your coloring pleasure.

Sannel chose for her cover, one of my favorite illustrations that she has produced. I suspect it is one of her favorites also, as it inspired an entire coloring book. A young miss sitting at her table, teddy bear in hand, and a serving tray heaped high with sweets. The tea is made, and she is enjoying a celebration as attested to by her rose adorned hat.

Inside my copy, there is a postcard, which states, ‘Hoping you or someone else you may know, will enjoy my very first coloring book.’

Yeah, like someone is going to get my signed copy. Ha, right.


There is such a refreshing feel to the work. Sannel took the time to add some historical notes regarding the tea plant and tea etiquette. She also spiced up the pages with birds, flowers, and little girls stretching their imaginations. Oh, and did I mention, teacups?

Find your box of colored pencils, put on a pot of tea, set the radio to your favorite channel, and let your mind escape into a playtime, teatime pastime. It's like a cup of happiness.  


Thanks, Mike--what wonderful feedback to share with my readers.

I happen to agree with you, as I am hooked on adult coloring books and have purchased several over the last year, from craft stores and magazine aisles in the grocery store.

Sannel's book is completely different to me. The personal flourishes on each page are whimsical and charming, showing much care and thoughtfulness in the designs.

This book is rife with positive affirmations and reminders that tea can be a relaxing ritual of comfort and stress reduction. Facts about tea are gently strewn throughout as well.

I have shared with some friends who enjoy and appreciate this book as much as Mike and I do. If you have ever wondered if adult coloring is your 'cup of tea', this is where to start. This is a work of art and a stress buster in one.

Here are some of my creations!  Thanks, dear Sannel, for making me feel like Monet.
​Couldn't resist this classic song by the Kinks, "Have a Cuppa Tea"

ShoutOuts

☙Quicker Cabbage Rolls via WarnerWords
☙Free Kindle/Free Nook For Your Smart Devices via flashPress

Until next week, be peaceful and have a cuppa tea... sending special thoughts and prayers to Linda Bilyeu and family - RIP Randy.

 Hugs,

mar
17 Comments
Peg Cole link
7/27/2016 08:32:48 am

Mike's appreciation of Sannel's newest release is shared by so many who've seen or received her coloring book. I was delighted at the quality of the cover, the paper and the images as well as the playful nature of the designs and can't wait to enjoy the thrill of this long-neglected pastime, coloring for pleasure. She is truly talented.

Reply
Maria link
7/28/2016 06:19:30 am

Dear Peg,
I'm glad you also have a copy of this lovely and therapeutic book- I suspect you'll love it as much as I do.
Hope you're having a peaceful week. Love, Maria

Reply
Tim Mitchell link
7/27/2016 10:22:24 am

Very eloquent reviews of Sannel's new Adult Coloring book full of creative adventures. Your coloring projects are amazing sharing your flair as an artist. I have been doing mine too. I find them providing comfort from the hectic pace and worries of of the day. One fun part of the adventure is deciding between them which adventure I wish to do. I look forward to her next creations and coloring project adventures.

Reply
Maria link
7/28/2016 06:22:49 am

Dear Tim,

I love your review for Sannel's book on Amazon - your video actually gave me the idea for this slideshow.

Great that you have checked out this calming pastime - like you, I can't wait for Sannel's second installment.

Reply
Mike
7/27/2016 11:28:12 am

Thank you Maria. Sannel did a fine job with this creation. I hope many share in the dun. You display some excellent coloring! I hope it brought back memories of care free summer days.

Reply
Mike
7/27/2016 02:31:24 pm

Those who don't want to share in the dun can share in the fun. Help Sannel reach her goal of one million copies sold.

Reply
Maria link
7/28/2016 06:30:48 am

Thanks for stopping by twice, dear Mike - you are very punny.

I have loved to color since I was a wee lass - lovely that now I recognize the benefits for myself. I'm grateful to Sannel for the inspiration and making my gift giving so easy.

Hope you are feeling some relief from the heat. Hugs, mar

Reply
paula link
7/27/2016 03:45:41 pm

Mar......I'm so excited! Just a bit over a year ago, shortly after the "adult coloring book" craze hit my neck of the woods, I bought my first book & pencils.....I quickly added coloring to my favorite hobbies! What a wonderful way to relax and get a little jolt of creativity! I love it but have to be careful because I can color for HOURS & hours!
Leave it to Sannel to create her own book. The woman is amazing. Thanks so much for the info and also a peek into her book. (Great coloring Mar!) I didn't know I had a flair for "colors" in general until I began to turn out some really terrific pages! LOL Mike is such a sweety.....How do we have him cloned, Maria? any suggestions?? I want the first copy! LOL....They just don't make 'em like Mike anymore....& BTW, like YOU either!! Love you, Effer

Reply
Maria link
7/28/2016 06:43:16 am

Look at you - commenting despite Weebly shenanigans, dear effer - thank you!

I'm glad to know of your love (addiction?) to coloring...I know what you mean about 'having to PUT THE BOOK DOWN...'!

Yet another reason to love you... :)

Reply
Martie link
7/27/2016 06:39:36 pm

Dear Maria and Sannel

Coloring was one of my most favorite hobbies in childhood. I actually won a prize in a national coloring contest when I was 10 years old. I still have the prize, or at least the Amethyst stone that was part of a necklace.

Mar, your coloring is superb. I can't wait for my copy of Teatime Pastimes to be delivered. It will be yet another very precious gift from you.

Sannel, I am so glad you decided to produce coloring books for adults. I wish you only the best of success with the sales.

Hugs to both of you :)

Reply
Maria link
7/28/2016 06:47:42 am

Dear Martie,

I would have loved to have participated in a coloring contest - how cool is that...and an amethyst necklace as well... !

I believe all these years we have lived parallel lives, Sista - and because of this, I KNOW you are going to adore Sannel's book - any 'week' now...LOL.

Hugs back and much love too, mar

Reply
Sannel link
7/28/2016 03:53:19 am

Dear Maria and Mike,

Thank you both so much for this wonderful post, sharing your wonderful reviews and thoughts about my coloring book. You're so darn sweet and I love you to pieces! One million copies, Mike...oh, boy, that would be great, then I would be set for life. Let's see...only 999,965 to go then. I'm almost there, whoo-hoo! :) I know with beautiful and supportive friends like you in my life, it will happen sooner rather than later. :)
Yes, the inspiration for my cover and the tea themed subject came from my original painting on Fine Art America. I've always been especially fond of that one.
I love your coloring, Maria and it's so inspiring to see my black and white illustrations come alive with vibrant colors and artistic flair. That's the boost I need to continue with my next coloring book. I'm deeply grateful for all your amazing support, and also to all the beautiful comments here on the comment section. Thank you all so much!!!
Love and hugs,
Sannel

Reply
Maria link
7/28/2016 06:53:32 am

Dear Sannel,

So happy you are seeing this positive response to your first (of a long line of) coloring books.

I see so many variations of this technique - and am excited to share them with you as I get to the PO.

You have a lifer customer in me...and your audience cannot help but grow with your talents and creativity.

Love you and thank you for all you do, Maria

Reply
femmeflashpoint link
7/30/2016 06:40:28 pm

Prof. Mahreer,

Sannel's book is adorable. I'm picturing grownups all over the globe, working away at coloring the fun images and being very careful to 'stay inside the lions' (my phrase at three, on what I deemed an important aspect of proper coloring, per Mama).

I totally get it why coloring provides stress relief and I imagine it could provide excellent therapy for a variety of other things. These would make an awesome inclusion at senior center activity areas.

Reply
Maria link
8/3/2016 09:13:43 am

Dear femme,

In addition to senior centers, I am seeing adult coloring books as part of Arts Therapy in behavioral health settings...which seems highly appropriate for the stress relieving benefits.

Thanks for your cool remarks - although I don't always adhere to those lions... :)

Reply
Shauna
8/11/2016 01:00:39 pm

What a wonderful book! I used to color all the time when I was a little girl. I'm aware that adult coloring books hit the market a few years ago, but haven't bought one.

Coloring allows your thoughts to wander while enjoying quiet solitude. It is very therapeutic. I see you're taking advantage of your signed gift and putting it to good use.

What fun!

Reply
Maria link
8/13/2016 08:39:41 am

Yeah, so happy to find another 'coloring lover' in my circle of friends, dear Sha.

I plan to send you a copy of Sannel's book, armed with this information - I know you'll enjoy it as much as I do.

Have a peaceful and cool weekend. Love, mar

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    Marcoujor

    Welcome to my desk...

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    Thank you,

    mar  



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  • Home
  • BOOK SHOP
    • Kylie's Stories
    • Other books by Maria Jordan >
      • Mysterious & Miraculous Book I - News and Reviews
  • BLOGS
    • mar's Desk
    • Inspiration Station
    • Poetic Ponderings
    • marcoujor on Hubpages
  • I Recommend...
  • Contact Me