Free Kindle Book List from the Doorkeeper Blog

I read other blogs for encouragement, information and blogging help.  I read the Doorkeeper by Renee Ann Smith.  She has been kind enough to keep an up-to-date list of free books for the Kindle.    This list is perfect if you read Christian living or Christian fiction books.  She also writes book reviews and devotionals for encouragement.   Read her blog and tell me what you think.


I have noticed that sometimes the same books that are free for the Kindle are also free for the nook.  The selection of free eBooks changes so check them out as soon as you can.

The Gift of Words

I read the book Silver Boxes by Florence Littauer a very long time ago.  It is book that is still in my library.  I will not give it away.  I would rather buy you your own copy.   I remember reading that my words should be like a gift with a bow on top.   She was trying to explain Ephesian 4:29 to children.  Her description helped me too because I never forgot it.  Ephesian 4:29 says "Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers".


Everyone likes to receive a present.  A beautifully, wrapped gift is hard to resist and makes your heart glad.     Before those words come out of your mouth, ask yourself would I want to receive what I am giving out.   Encouragement is what we all need to keep moving forward.    Give the gift of encouragement to your spouse, children or neighbor.  Give the perfect gift this Christmas...your beautiful, wonderful words!

How Do You Use Prayer?

I am reading Parenting by Design Devotional at YouVersion.  Of course, there's an app for that so you can read it on your smartphone.


I am on day 230 and today mentions a quote from Corrie Ten Boom.  She said "Is prayer your steering wheel or your spare tire?"     Prayer as your steering wheel means I will let God lead me.  I will talk to Him first and see what He wants me to do today.   On the other hand, I have used prayer as a spare tire only at times.  The "spare tire approach" means that it is a tool in the trunk and I will use it in case of emergency.


My day is more frustrating when I use prayer as my spare tire.  The little things seem to bother me more.  When I use prayer as my steering wheel then my day has clarity and a sense of calm.  I trust God will be me throughout the day.  He will give me understanding and insight.

Book Review - Dry As Rain

Dry As Rain by Gina Holmes is about a marriage near its end.   Eric and Kyra Yoshida are the main characters in this relationship tragedy.  The whole story is from Eric's point of view so we do not get to see much of Kyra's thoughts.  In chapter 1, we learn he met the love of his life.   In chapter 2, we fast forward years later and now Eric is thinking "I woke up in bed with a woman who was not my wife".  He was separated from his wife, but he was STILL married.   Misunderstandings and lack of communication caused them to drift apart.

An ironic thing happened after he committed infidelity...he learned that his wife was in accident and a part of her memory was gone.   Her memory was so gone that she did not remember the separation or the bad feelings between her and Eric.  Did he tell her right away about their current situation?  Of course not.  He had moments where he thought that he should, but he wanted to hold on to her as long as possible.  Her loving attitude towards him made him realize how much he missed her.  

Others thought that he should tell her the truth right away instead of waiting.  Of course, Eric was hoping that maybe the bad part of their marriage would be forgotten permanently.    While her memory was gone, he became a better husband.  He was hoping that when her memory did return that his latest actions would work in his favor.  

This book is good.  I kept reading because I just had to know what would happen to Eric and Kyra.  I have started some books and could not finish because I did not care about the characters or I did not understand the plot.   I cared about Eric and his imperfect self.  I wanted to know how Kyra would deal with such a betrayal and whether their marriage would survive.  

When this book starts Eric is mad at Adam and Eve because he thought if they had not messed up that all of humanity would be in Paradise right now.  By the end of the book, he realizes he is just like them.   He was tempted and flawed, but forgiven.

Tyndale House Publishers has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Free eBook about Marriage - Let's Get Real

A free book about marriage for the nook. Click the link below.

BARNES & NOBLE | Let's Get Real: Bringing Authenticity and Wholeness to Your Marriage by Dale Forehand | NOOK Book (eBook):


Go to Amazon.com to get the same book free for the Kindle.

Book Review - Life, In Spite of Me

Life, In Spite Of Me by Kristen Jane Anderson is the testimony of a young woman who overcame pain and depression through her growing dependence on Christ.  We meet her at her lowest point.  She is ready to end her life because she cannot take it anymore.   Her way of ending her life seemed liked it should work.  There is no way anyone could survive her method of suicide, but God had other plans.  She survives, but she cannot see yet how God will work in her life.  After her suicide attempt, she is not sure how she got to the train tracks that were supposed to take her life.   In the beginning, she could not believe that others thought she tried to commit suicide.  It seemed liked Kristen was blocking the idea subconsciously that she made the choice to kill herself so she would not confront the reasons behind her decision.    She had some terrible things happen to her that could shake even the strongest person.  Her thoughts as she considered suicide were insightful.  Her friend committed suicide and she thought she would never do something like that.   As time passes she thinks "Life is so hard.  This world is so painful and messed up".   Her thoughts begin to change from "I could never to do that" to "I'd have to think of some way I wouldn't survive".  Her world was messed up and she did not share it with anyone so suicide became a real solution before.   

Kristen's shares with us the trauma after her suicide attempt and her struggle to get better.   Her primary goal during the beginning part of her recovery was to walk again.   She was trying to make things work, but kept ending up depressed.  The best part of her story is realizing that a dependence on God will heal her.     When she was in the psych ward, she told a man "It helps me so much to know that even when I don't have plans for myself.  I can trust that God has plans for me.  Even when I don't have hope, he has hope for me.  And even when I don't see a future for myself, he does.  I just have to have faith".   As she was being healed through Christ, she was able to help others with their struggles.   There were things she wanted to do, but she left those things to God to work out.  And He did!

Throughout the book, you will see letters from Kristen to her readers to offer hope.  Her letter to those considering suicide was uplifting.  She wants us to know we have so much to live for and that God loves you and has a plan for your life.  The writing style was like a personal conversation between her and us.  Kristen would tell us the story and then give us some pearls of wisdom to help anyone struggling to move forward.   As she keeps talking we get a glimpse of God working on her behalf even when she did not realize it.

If you are considering suicide, I believe you will be stopped in your tracks and reconsider your decision after reading this book.   For all of us, we are educated on the signs of someone who might be thinking about suicide.  Although I have a different view about baptism being optional as presented in this story, I can recommend this book because it is a testimony that brings glory to God.  You will be moved and inspired.  


Click this link to read a preview of the book ->
Chapter 1 of Life, In Spite of Me.


I received a free copy of this eBook from  WaterBrook Multnomah through their Blogging for Books program.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Free eBook - How to Stay Christian in College

The book How to Stay Christian in College is free for the Nook and Kindle.

Click the link below to go to Barnes & Noble and download it for the Nook.

BARNES & NOBLE | How to Stay Christian in College by J. Budziszewski | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback:

Click the link below and download it to your Kindle.

How to Stay Christian in College for the Kindle.

Courageous movie

The creators of the movie, Fireproof have produced Courageous which comes out in theaters September 30th.   If you're like me then you might want to read the book, too.


Read Stacie's blog post at Sincerely Stacie who wrote about the movie and included the movie trailer.

Book Review - Raising A Daughter After God's Own Heart

What do I want to pass on to my children? I can think of many things, but having a heart that truly loves God is the best inheritance. I picked up Raising A Daughter After God's Own Heart by Elizabeth George to figure out how. The author tells me plainly that I must be what I want my daughter to be. It sounds obvious, but anyone of us can be so busy trying to fix someone that we forget our own flaws.

George helps us by going through the roles we must play as mothers to get our daughters to a right relationship with God. We are first given the illustration of a bell sheep. The sheep that stayed neared the shepherd was given a bell around their neck. The bell would ring as that sheep followed the shepherd and other sheep would follow. Mothers must stay near The Shepherd and allow their lives to speak about God so their daughters will follow.  At the end of each chapter is a Mom's Think Pad.  The Think pad helps you to stop and think about how you will take action.

The author describes 10 more jobs that a mom will do that will help her daughter draw close to God.   The chapters that stand out for me are about the prayer warrior, the church lady and the social secretary.   Being a prayer warrior allows you to lay everything before God.  Your worries, your questions, your failures about parenting can be given to God.  I need to pray and watch out for my daughter's welfare.

The author describes for us the importance of a mother's role as a church lady.   Church attendance is important in your daughter's spiritual growth.   The church lady attends church regularly and brings her daughter with her.   She is active and looks for opportunities for her daughter to serve with her and other members of the church.

The social secretary mom knows her daughter's friends and the activities that she is involved in.   She allows her home to be a place where her daughter and her friends would want to come.    This mom knows about the environment of the homes she visits.   She is not afraid to say no to certain people in her child's life for her protection.   The social secretary's function is to allow for fun and relationships with others, but not at the expense of her spiritual life.

I like this book and would recommend it to anyone who wants to develop their child into a spiritual champion in God.  I did have one issue with this book.  I wish it was written for boys and girls.   I have a son and two daughters and I can say that most of the information in this book can be applied to parenting your son.  I think those who only have sons will miss important information.  Besides that issue, this book is well written.  It helped me to think about my relationship with God more so I can be a mom after God's own heart who raises daughters that chase after Him.


I received this free eBook from the publisher through NetGalley.  All opinions expressed are my own.

My Remembrance of 9/11

On Friday, I should have been finishing my book so I could write a review here.  Instead I was drawn to Google the events of 9/11.  I thought about my first and only time at the World Trade Center.


Before I was a mom and a school bus driver, I was a computer programmer.    My company had outsourced some functions to a company in New York.  My job usually did not lead me anywhere except to my cubicle or a conference room.  But one time in early part of 2001, I was assigned to go with others from my office to New York.     I ate lunch with my co-worker Leslie (not her real name) at the World Trade Center.  I remember that the view was beautiful and I thought this was the best lunch that I ever had.   I think it had to be the Windows on the World restaurant.  I knew we were at the top of the building.  I had hoped to return.


On September 11, 2001, I was with my co-worker Leslie again.  We had to go to a 10 o'clock meeting in Harrisburg for work.   She picked me up and we had a good time on the way.  We talked, laughed and listened to CDs all the way to Harrisburg.  We did not listen to the radio and did not have any clue about the tragic events unfolding while we were travelling.


Our meeting started promptly at 10 AM.  I wrote one sentence on my notepad before the announcement was made that the World Trade Center was attacked, Harrisburg was on lock down and that we had to leave.  I did not fully comprehend what was said because it was completely unbelievable.  Leslie and I left as quick as we could to listen to the radio in her car.  The ride home was completely different than the ride to our meeting.  


These events still sadden me.  I think about how normal the day started for all of these people and its tragic end.   This is the year I purposely thought about 9/11.  I watched Heroes of the 88th Floor on TLC and other 9/11 specials.  I finally threw out the piece of paper that had one sentence from my meeting that never started on 9/11.  I do not know why I kept it so long.   I read about the victims and those they left behind.   I really, really thought about 9/11 this year.  I prayed for those who still suffer from these events.  After reading about the youngest victim who was 2 1/2 years old travelling with her mom and dad,  I turned off the computer and chased my soon-to-be 3 year old around the house and let myself be chased by her.  Time is too precious...

TumbleBooks - eBooks for eKids!

TumbleBooks - eBooks for eKids!


Chester County library's website has a great resource of eBooks for kids. If you go to www.ccls.org and scroll down to find the Tumblebooks icon. Click it and you will find books for free that your child can have read to them. The book can be set to auto-play or your child can click to turn the page at their own pace. Most of the books appear to have a related-game to help reinforce what your child read. Tumblebooks is a very good addition to encourage reading for children.

No Power...No Energy

I am sorry that I have not posted in over a week.   I had no electricity from Saturday night to Monday night, but it seemed like a long time.  I really appreciate the small things now.   I try to read my Parenting by Design Devotional at www.youversion.com every day.  I need some help with this thing called parenting.


Monday was my first day back to work as a school bus driver and we were still without power.   I did not sleep well and woke up too early, but I decided I should just get my day started.  I read my parenting devotional on my smartphone.  The title of Monday's devotional was Plugging In To Power.  LOL!    I needed power right then...spiritual and otherwise. 


My phone and laptop can last as long as they are plugged into an outlet.  After losing power on Saturday, I could see my phone and laptop telling me to plug into a power source.


I was reminded I need God's power so I can do God's will for my life.  If I depend on my strength then I will run out of steam.  If I depend on my "genius" and strength to raise my children then I will run out of ideas and energy.  I have to stay plugged in to Jesus through prayer and Bible study.    I need God's wisdom to do everything especially parenting!

Blogs I Read - 5 Minutes for books (Berenstain Bears' digital book)

I subscribe to the blog 5 Minutes for Books. I enjoy their book reviews.  Today's post was about the Berenstain Bears' Bedtime Battle digital book. The book is an interactive book that can be read on Apple or Android devices.  


After I read their blog post,  I looked it up in the Android Market and downloaded the free book The Berenstain Bears and the Golden Rule (Lite Version).  I will probably buy the other books in the future. You can see all the books at Oceanhouse Media. Jasmine read this book on my phone.  She used all three options.  She chose to have the book read to her and she read it on her own.  You swipe the screen to turn the page.   She used the auto play option, but preferred the first two choices.  She liked turning the pages herself.  The options of "auto play" and "read to me" highlight the words as the story is read.

All Things for My Good

"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose."  Romans 8:28 (KJV)


If you have been in church at all, this scripture comes up.  We say it.  We memorize it, but do we believe it?   You may have been lied on, been a victim, had great sickness and suffered great disappointment. How can all things work together for good?  I know the "all things" that I do not like draw me closer to God.  I know that the scriptures that I have memorized become real to me when I struggle.  Songs that I know are sung with a determination to keep moving forward.


My dad had Alzheimer's and he was a wanderer.   He was missing at least 3 times.   The first time that he was missing, I remember singing over and over again to myself.   I was calmer than I thought I should have been, but Isaiah 26:3 became real.  God kept me in peace by thinking about Him.  This bad situation worked for my good because God proved Himself on my behalf before my dad was even found.   


There are many situations that will refine us.  Others will be drawn to Christ as we mature in Him.   That is the good!   The "all things" mature me and testify to others about God's greatness.


At Christianbook.com, is a free eBook called The Promise: God Works All Things Together for Your Good by Robert J. Morgan. The author's purpose is to show how this promise from God is true.  I have not read this book yet, but I decided to share it with you since it is free for a limited time.  If you want to buy the book in print then you can buy it from Christianbook.com or Amazon.com.

Smell the Aroma

I can smell the aroma of a Fresh-Brewed Life.   I am reading chapter one of this book by Nicole Johnson.  A coffee drinker can relate to this book right away because she talks about how coffee is not just a drink.  It is a welcome.  It is comfort.  I prefer tea, but I could almost taste the coffee after she was finished discussing the joys of coffee.  Johnson wants us to awaken to joy of a true relationship with God.  She wants us to savor our time with Him just as any true coffee drinker savors a fresh brewed cup of coffee.

I will offer this book in an upcoming giveaway so subscribe to my blog as a feed or by e-mail.  You can also "like" Melissa's Book Nook on Facebook to know when you can enter the giveaway.

O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him.  Psalms 34:8 KJV

Comfort in His Presence

When I heard that it might storm last night, I knew one of my kids would be knocking on my door in the middle of the night.  It is usually Jasmine and sometimes Jeremiah and never Madie.  I do not think Madie has waken up in the middle of the night since she was a newborn needing to be fed.  


In the middle of the night, thunder roared and the lightening flashed and Jasmine was knocking on my door as I predicted.   She was scared because of the storm and she could not sleep.  Playing music and the night light did not help her fall asleep.  She wanted me or her dad.  My husband and I both took turns keeping watch.   The storm continued and she only felt better when we were present.


Last night reminded me that the storms in my life can be endured when I am in the presence of God and my loved ones.  God does not always make my troubles leave immediately, but He did promise to never leave me alone.   Thank you, Lord!


Isaiah 43:1-3 
But now, thus says the LORD, who created you, O Jacob,
And He who formed you, O Israel: “ Fear not, for I have redeemed you;  I have called you by your name; You are Mine.  When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;  And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you.  When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you. 

Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Kids' Educational Websites - sheppardsoftware.com & ixl.com

You might think I make my kids read a lot and I do, but I know they need more.  I like the following websites (www.sheppardsoftware.com and www.ixl.com) for helping me to add to what my kids learn in school.  


This summer, my kids have used the website Sheppard Software to play games to help them with Math, Language Arts and Geography.   If you go to the top of the page, you will see even more subjects than what we used.  The best part is that it is free!


My kids' favorites are Math Fruit Shoot, Math Man and the Parts of Speech Tutorial.

• Math fruit shoot gives you a math problem and you have to shoot the fruit with the right answer to score.
• Math Man looks like Pac-Man except you have to eat the dot with a question mark to get the math problem.  Then you have to eat the ghost with the right answer.  Do not eat the ghost with the wrong answer or else you will lose a turn.
• Parts of Speech tutorial made my kids laugh.  You have to pick a noun, adjective and a verb.  Your choice is animated for you at the end.  For example, you could pick to have an angry cloud sleeping or a sparkly girl flying.   A definition with examples is given each time your child picks their noun, adjective and verb.

I also like IXL website (www.ixl.com).  Children can practice their math skills.  It is for grades pre-K to the 8th grade.   Your child can practice 20 questions for free each day.  If you want more than what is offered for free then you have to pay $9.95 for the month or $79 for the year.   There is also a teachers rate which can be shared with the class or school.    If you or your school is not ready to purchase a membership then I would at least let your children answer 20 questions a day.  It can only help them get better at math.  

I would love to hear of any educational websites that you use with your family.  Let me know.  Thanks.

Marriage...The Long, Road Trip

I have been reading a lot this summer, but it has mostly been children’s books.   I am back to reading Sacred Marriage and I am still in chapter 1.  There is a lot to think about in this chapter.

Sacred Marriage suggests that marriage can become like a Midwest highway with long stretches of flat land.  The scenery does not change too often.  You’re asking “are we there yet”.  It has its moments of sameness that can lead to boredom.    After the thrill of the romance of dating and a beautiful wedding, you have the responsibilities of a home, job and children.   It may seem like you are not getting anywhere and a restlessness can take over.    

Couples make a choice during this time.  They may break up and try to create that excitement again with another partner.   They could stay in the relationship and treat their spouse like the enemy.  Or they could honor their commitment and continue on even when feelings say otherwise.   

I do not feel like doing the laundry, but it needs to be done so I can have clean clothes.  I do not feel like driving the school bus every day, but the kids have to get to school and I like getting a paycheck. J   I see where the author is trying to take me.  My feelings have their place, but they cannot rule.   I’m in my marriage for the long haul so I will read on!

What do you think?

Refurbished Nook Color at eBay

Have you ever wanted a Nook Color?  Here's your chance to buy a refurbished one for $179.99.  It is usually $249.  A top-rated seller who has 99.4% positive feedback is selling it.  I am not the seller...I wish.  My other dream is to be a top-rated seller on eBay.   Enough about me and check this out.  Click the link below.


Barnes & Noble NOOK Color 8GB, Wi-Fi, 7in Touchscreen - eBay (item 200637867345 end time Sep-09-11 07:59:36 PDT)

Are My Words A Gift?

I learn a lot while trying to raise my children.  How do I teach them the right way?  This morning was interesting. Jeremiah thought Jasmine needed to be told how to read because she was not doing it right.  His way of  "helping" was not very nice. It sounded more like a put down because he thinks he reads better than her.  I suggested he should ask her does she want help instead of coming down on her like a sledgehammer.  She was discouraged enough to want to stop reading because of his comments.   How can I help us learn something from this moment?


I was reminded of the scripture, Ephesians 4:29 which says "Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers."  I said it more to myself than to them, but they heard and had this expression on their face like I was speaking another language.


Then I remembered that Florence Littauer explained it better for kids in her book,  Silver Boxes.   She said our words should be like a gift.  Who could resist a beautifully, wrapped present?  Even when someone needs correction, it should be presented in the spirit of love.


My kids understand about receiving presents so I think they understood what I was trying to say.  I read Silver Boxes a long time ago so I do not remember all the details.  She wrote stories from her life about how words help and hurt people.   If I read it again any time soon then I will write a book review for you.


Anyway, the point is our words should be used to build up, encourage, restore and show love.  We have been on the receiving end of the opposite and know the pain inflicted by words.  Let's think and pause before speaking so we do not harm others.


"Are my words a gift?"

New Look by Cutesie Blog Design

My blog has a new look thanks to Leah of Cutesie Blog Design.    Leah was very easy to work with.   I was not sure what I really wanted or how it should look.  I told her what my blog was about and Leah sent me ideas that I really liked.  She was fast with producing a sample and quick to answer e-mails.

At the top of my blog, you will notice a woman with a stack of books in her hands.   She is the size I was about 9 years ago, but the rest of the picture is accurate.  :)  The bookshelf full of books and me with a handful of books is true to life.  In my house there are at least 3 bookshelves full of books.  I am usually moving books from one place to another.

I have 2 bookshelves on the side to let you know what I have read and what I am currently reading.   You can also shop for some of my favorite books at the bottom of my blog.  Stay updated by subscribing to my blog and join in the discussion about what I am reading.  Also you will be the first to know about giveaways.

Subscribe to my blog by pressing either the orange button to get a feed and read in your favorite reader like Google Reader.  Or click the blue button to receive updates by e-mail.

If you ever decide to blog and (I know you have opinions and information that the world needs) then consider making the look of your blog unique.  Contact Leah from Cutesie Blog Design to see how she can help.

Simply His Word & Free eBooks

Today is Monday and for me that means Christianbook usually updates their free ebooks page. Go to this link -> Sample Free eBooks - Christianbook.com. I downloaded the eBook, Ten Questions to Diagnose Your Spiritual Health. I will let you know later about this book. Christianbook also has a CBD reader app. You can download it from the Apple App Store or the Android market. Adobe Digital Editions software is used to read the eBooks on your computer or to transfer to your dedicated book reader.

As much as I love to read, I know there is nothing like the Word of God without commentary. Just let God give his own commentary. The KJV Bible Promise Book (Christianbook Stock No: WW81059) by Barbour Publishing is simply the scriptures grouped by subject. If you look up Contentment, you will find:

- "Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee." Hebrews 13:5

- "But godliness with contentment is great gain." 1 Timothy 6:6

It is $1.99 at Christianbook, but 0.99 if you buy 10 or more. If you buy more then you are prepared to bless someone else with a great gift. You will also find either the same or similar books at Amazon.com, Half.com or eBay.com. Prices will definitely vary because those websites have sellers offering used and new books.

Have a great day!

I Love Christian Fiction Sweepstakes

Go to I Love Christian Fiction Sweepstakes and answer a survey by Thomas Nelson. Thomas Nelson publishes Bibles, Christian books, videos, software and audio. The survey was not too long. The first 2,000 to answer will receive a free e-Book and you will be entered in a $10,000 sweepstakes.

http://thomasnelson.promo.eprize.com/fiction/

Today's Library Tour - 8/4/11

When I went to the library today, I only intended to return 2 books and pay a small fine.  Why did I come out of the library with 28 books?  Only 1 book was for me.  I dropped something off to my husband at his job and went to the library near his job. 


The kids run in and start picking up books so my quick trip turned into something longer.  It was okay.  Jasmine decided on a book she could read to her sister, Madie.  Jeremiah picked up a book to help Madie with her ABCs.  Then the twins picked books that they liked.  When we checked out, the librarian reminded me that I had a book on hold at another library near my house so I went there to just pick up 1 book.  The kids wanted to get more books and use the computers so I stayed longer again than I intended.   I should not complain.  Didn't I want the kids to like reading? 


We have not read any of the books yet, but the kids already have their favorites.  Jasmine's favorite pick is A God's Little Princess Treasury (Gigi, God's Little Princess).  She saw a Gigi DVD and was excited to find a book about her.   Jeremiah likes Little Bill and was happy to find a book about him.


I want my kids to enjoy reading so my longer than expected trip to the library was worth it.


   

Love Your Neighbor for Kids...and Me

I read Love Your Neighbor (Just Like Jesus Said Series) to my kids today.  The whole story is a rhyme about a boy who does not like his neighbor, Tim.  He broke his bike and scared his cat.  Everybody should agree that Tim is a pain except for Grandma.  She reminds him to "love your neighbor as you love yourself."


The little boy says he can love anyone else except for Tim.  The little boy's imagination runs wild.  He could live with and be neighborly to a polar bear, elephants and any other animal you could think of except Tim.   By the end of the book, his way of thinking changes and he makes a friend.


My kids gave this book a "thumbs up".  Today was rough between the twins.  Fighting between the two started early this morning. I had to remind them to love each other even when they disagree.  "Don't touch me"..."Get out of my room"...."Stop correcting me" are a few of the phrases shouted back and forth between the two.   After reading this book, things improved for about an hour and then the fight was back on.  Tomorrow I hope they are the best of friends again.


I have had a few "Tims" in my life.  I have felt that there is no way I could love that person, but reading a children's book reminds who I represent and what He expects.

How I Read Nook Books without a Nook

I do not have a Nook, but that does not stop me from enjoying Nook books.  I created an account at Barnes and Nobles website (www.barnesandnoble.com) so I could purchase Nook books or take advantage of their free Nook book offers.  I have a Nook library that goes anywhere. 


I downloaded the Nook for PC app to my laptop and the Android Nook app for my phone.   I prefer reading the books on my phone.  I can tap or swipe to turn pages.  If I do get a Nook book reader then my library is ready. 

Free eBooks at Christianbook.com

Hi All,

Today is Monday and what I like about Mondays is that Christianbook.com usually updates their free eBooks page with different books.   I cannot guarantee Monday will always be an update to their free eBook page, but I have noticed the pattern.  Books are changed on different days of the week, but I noticed most of the changes occur on Monday.

Do not worry if you do not have a book reader.   Christianbook.com saves your eBooks to a library and you can read the books using their book reader online.   You can read your books from your PC using Adobe Digital Editions.  That software is free.  Christianbook.com provided the link so I could download Adobe Digital Editions.

You can read instructions on how to transfer your eBook to your book reader.  I use a Sony book reader and I am able to transfer books from Adobe Digital Editions to my reader.   The MAC, iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch, Android phones, nook and Kobo are also supported devices.

Do not just stop at the free stuff on Christianbook.com.  Search their site and you will find Bibles, VBS supplies, Homeschool resources, music, DVDs and more.

Click the link below to go directly to Christianbook.com's free eBook page.
http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/cms_content?page=928515&sp=110934

If the link does not work the go to http://www.christianboook.com/, click eBooks at the top of the page.  Then click "Try Free eBooks" on the right side of the page.

Click the link below to go to a video describing eBooks at Christianbook.com.
http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/cms_content?page=2489042&sp=110934

Please note: I did not receive any money from Christianbook.com for promoting their website.  I use it regularly and thought this information would be helpful.

Value in the Eye of the Beholder - Part 2

In Value in the Eye of the Beholder, - Part 1, I talked about how auctions show that most things are valuable to someone somewhere.    From a spiritual perspective, all people have value.  God believes that.  Jesus sacrificed himself and died for us while we were yet sinners and doing whatever seemed right to us.   

You make not look right to your own self.   You may feel like you do not have worth because of the circumstances you were born in or the choices you have made.  …But God has the power to redeem and restore.    Do you remember I said in my previous post that even broken things are sold on eBay? There is a buyer who knows what to do with the broken parts.  God is that buyer who paid a price for us. Read 1 Corinthians 6:20.

We belong to God and He knows how to work with our raw material.  Others may be unwilling to deal with your raw material.    They may look at you and see nothing, but God sees you.  You are the apple of His eye.  He beholds value and beauty when He looks at you.  Surrender to Him and be prepared to be made whole.  He is willing to work on your behalf like no one else.

Value in the Eye of the Beholder - Part 1

Everyday things or situations usually help me relate to God.   Somehow auctions gave me another perspective on what is truly valuable.

Have you ever watched Antique Roadshow or Auction Hunters?  Or even checked completed auctions on eBay?  You will see most things have value to someone somewhere.  I find auctions fascinating.  It confirms for me that someone’s junk is another one’s treasure.  On the TV show Auction Hunters, two men buy the contents of abandoned storage units.  Their goal is to find “treasure” to make a profit.  For example, an old cigar box appraised for at least $100.  What?!   I do not understand the value of certain things, but I can appreciate those who do.

In the book More 100 Best Things I've Sold on eBay - Money Making Madness - My Story Continues by Lynn Dralle, The Queen of Auctions, you will find many items that this author sold for unbelievable amounts.  She bought a carved bird in a thrift store for $2.00 and sold it for $2,051.  A coffee pot, creamer and sugar set sold for $597.51 and she only paid $8.75 for it at a thrift store.   If I was in the same thrift store and saw that bird or coffee pot, I would have overlooked them because I did not understand that somewhere in the world these things are valuable (and because neither item matches my home decor).

Even broken things are sold on eBay.  It is alright because the seller did not hide the fact that it is broken.  The seller hopes someone with the knowledge can fix it or use the parts for something else and bid on their auction.

I have a different perspective now when I go to a thrift store or yard sale.  Sometimes I have an eye out for what could be valuable to someone else.  For sentimental or practical reasons, someone is willing to buy what we consider to be junk.

In Part 2, I will explain how this everyday occurrence of auctions gave me a spiritual insight into what is valuable.

If you are interested in the book I mentioned today then send an e-mail to melissasbooknook@gmail.com so I can send it to you for free.  The book it is not necessarily a "how-to book" on how to sell on eBay.  Her stories about her grandmother, how she acquired these items and her excitement about what she does is inspiring. I only have 1 copy of this book so be the first one to send me an  e-mail and it is yours.

Sacred Marriage on Half.com

I am reading Sacred Marriage and will publish a new post about chapter 1 in a few days. I found the book at http://www.half.com/ for a great price. Click the link below.

Half.com: Sacred Marriage: What If God Designed Marriage to Make Us Holy More Than to Make Us Happy by Gary Thomas (2002, Paperback, Reprint): What If God Designed Marriage to Make Us Holy More Than to Make Us Happy(9780310242826): Gary Thomas: Books

Rhyming Values

I went to the library this afternoon to pick up books that I had on hold.  Of course, I found more books than those to take home with me.  I am glad that I did because I found the most beautiful, touching books about the person you will marry and money management for children.

The books are  The Person I Marry: Things I'll Think about Long Before Saying "I Do" (Bright Future Books) and The Jingle in My Pocket: Sound Money Principals Kids Can Bank on (Bright Future Books)by Gary Bower and oil paintings by Jan Bower.   I could not keep myself from smiling as I rode home in the car reading these books.  Each page has a wonderful painting and a rhyme about values that I want my children to learn and cherish.   My husband is driving and all he can hear from me is “This is so sweet” and “I have to this book in my library”.     This behavior confirms for him that I am Matilda from the 1996 movie titled Matilda.  The girl loved to read and my husband calls me Matilda from time to time when I am engrossed in a book or being overly excited about a book I am reading.  Let’s get back to the reason for my blog today.  These wonderful, exciting, beautifully illustrated books…

The Person I Will Marry helps children think about qualities they should look for in a future spouse.   I will tell my kids to use this checklist of traits to pick their friends as well.    The books sends the message that your future spouse should be gentle, kind, fun, courageous, optimistic, generous, patient, honest, believes in God and looks to Him for guidance.    

The Jingle in my Pocket lets kids know that good, old-fashioned work is necessary if you want to have the jingle in your pocket.    All the money is mine or is it?  The book reminds children and ME that God gave me the ability to work and earn money so I should give some money to Him.  Kids are offered ideas on how to earn money with old-fashioned stuff like wash your parent’s car or walk your neighbor’s dog.   Kids are taught to save and stay out of debt.

Does this sound like too much for young children to learn?  I do not think so.  The author uses rhymes and paintings throughout the book to teach and leaves the rest to the parents to continue the lesson.

We should take these books to the street and teach it to grown folks who did not get the lesson while growing up or forgot that there is a better way.  There is a better way that many have not adhered to for their relationships and money.   Let’s give our children wisdom so they can avoid the mistakes we made so they can truly have a better life rich with values and integrity.

Get Ready To Leap

When I was a kid, I imagined myself as a superhero.  Storm from the X-Men and Wonder Woman are a few of my favorite superheroes.  The best part about a superhero is that they seemed to be able to do the impossible.   At times, the hero seems defeated and without hope, but out of no where they do a marvelous feat and the world is saved...again. :)

Every time I read Psalm 18:29, I feel stronger. I feel like I can do the impossible with God's help.  Have you read it?  You should.  It says "For by thee I have run through a troop; and by my God have I leaped over a wall".

The wall in your life could be something out of your control like an illness.  The wall could have been built from your own bad habits or decisions.  Whether the wall is external or internal, God stands ready to help.  He is more than the wall.  He is more than the opposition you face from other people.  He is more than the doubts and fears in your mind.   He can do the impossible.

I encountered a wall when the idea to write a blog came to me.   I was told by someone a few years ago that I should blog because I had something to say.  Procrastination and my own doubts kept me from moving forward.   Do I really have anything to say that will help somebody?  I realized that God can use me for this purpose.   As I allow His words to take root and grow, I am changed.   I become smaller and He becomes bigger.  I am stronger because of Him.

My inner superhero is taking shape and so is yours.  Pick your theme music and let it play, put your hands on your hips, let your cape fly in the wind and get ready to leap...

Happily Ever After?

I finally found my book,  Sacred Marriage by Gary Thomas.  I started it awhile ago and then misplaced it.  I do not like it when I lose a book.  Anyway, I bought it because the question underneath grabbed my attention.  It asks "What if God designed marriage to make us holy more than to make us happy?"

The author plans to challenge me to use joy and struggles in marriage to draw closer to God and develop my Christian character.  That sounds like work.  I do not remember all this from the fairy tales that I watched when I was a girl.  The girl met the prince of her dreams, they married and lived happily ever after.  The fairy tale never mentions the rest of the story.

When I was single I was looking for someone to make me happy without thinking about what my responsibility is to my future spouse.   I am learning marriage is a ministry in itself where sacrifices, compromise, love and kindness must exist.  I am not perfect, but fortunately I have a wonderful, understanding husband who puts up with me.  I will check in with you later about this subject as I read Sacred Marriage.