Saturday, February 26, 2011

Another Day of Thrifty Book Shopping

Today, I racked up on books. My younger sister collects Stephen Kings books. My mom collects John Grisham books. I also purchased six LPS from the Salvation Army for my new turntable/cd/radio/cassette/mp3 player.  I bought 22 books from the Salvation Army and 11 books for the flea market in Pearl, MS.  I only spent $14 on books at the Salvation Army and $11 at the store in Pearl, MS. I really need to build some more bookcases because I have an overflow of books now. What has been your best adventure with book shopping.


On another note: When I went to the Goodwill in Pearl, I didn't see any books, which caught my eye. A little girl was playing with one of those cars that you sit on and move with your feet.  The child's mother told her to get up. The mother looked at the price, and she put the little car back. It was quite obvious that she could not afford the car. The little girl cried, but it was a different cry. It was a true cry of sadness. After they walked off, I look at the car. It was $8. Knowing that a man gave me a book today FREE out of the kindness of his heart, I bought the car and gave it to the woman. The little girl gave me a hug and kiss and said thank you. That was the best $8 I have ever spent. Blessing others is a wonderful feeling, especially children.

The Frugalista Files by Natalie McNeal

After chatting with the author on Twitter, @frugalista, I finally bought the e-book for my iPad. Ironically, reading this book coincided with a goal of mine to get out of debt and take more control over my money. Perhaps, the underlying motivation is that I am in my last year of my 20s or that I am going through a divorce. Either way, this book was right on point. The most intriguing and useful tip that I will be implementing is the "No Spend Month." Next month, March 2011, will be my "No Spend Month." Some people have already said that they couldn't do it, especially since it is the month of Spring Break, but I am optimistic about my ability to control my spending and still enjoy my spring break. After unsuccessful attempts of soliciting friends to join me, I am on my own. Yet, I am encouraged to do it. Not only does this book includes tips about living within your means, there is any underlying message: Using what you have and turning what you know to do into a passionate career. This book has truly motivated me to what I want in life: a passionate career to live a fulfilled life. I would definitely recommend this book. I enjoyed reading it. I have even checked out her blog.

Sunday, February 13, 2011

No Mirrors In My Nana's House by Ysaye M. Barnwell

I have discovered a new website, which reads books to you. This website is Storyline Online. My children have fallen in love with it.  The book is so sweet and "deep." Tonight, after listening to it, we went on YouTube to find the song.

Here are some related videos! I hope you enjoy!



Tuesday, February 08, 2011

The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano or Gustavas Vassa, The African Written by Himself

Describing an intense journey of being captured, enslaved, and freed, The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano or Gustavas Vassa, The African is a book, which provides firsthand details of the traumatic stronghold slavery held over those directly and indirectly affected by slavery. Olaudah vividly describes each capture, being with various masters, and working aboard various ships. Initially after his capture, Olaudah desires only one thing: DEATH. Eventually, Olaudah accepts his fate, but a burning desire to be a free man replaces his desire to die. Olaudah's narrative embraces a pure reality of the slave and freedman by captivating the reader with a tale of bravery, loyalty, friendship, and struggle. Olaudah's narratives touches the bones of your soul on every page. For me, the most significant event is Olaudah's desire to live a holy life and to bring people to know, love, and trust God. Documenting his path to developing a relationship with God, Olaudah's paints a picture of having faith. This was well-worth trudging through archaic and often dull language. 

Discovering the Joys of Being in a Book Club

Heaven and Earth Grocery Store Reading has been a sanctuary for me for as long as I can remember. Being surrounded by books provides unimagi...