Looking For More Inspiration?

                                                                

Are you on the lookout for more inspiration? Here are some of my favorite books, movies, and music that inspire me and give me warm, fuzzy feelings inside!

Books

"My Future Listography--- All I Hope to Do in Lists" - Created by Lisa Nola

If you enjoy making lists, this is the book for you! Filled with topics such as "List The Countries You Hope to Go To" and "List Other Lives You'd Want to Lead If You Had Nine Lives", this unique book allows you to journal about your future. If you would like to know more, you can visit www.listography.com .  

                                                              

"Words in the Dust"- By Trent Reedy

Based on the true story of a young Afghan girl, "Words in the Dust" is a powerful representation of who the Afghan people really are, not just our enemies, but as much victims as we are. You will fall in love with the beautiful character of Zulaikha, a curious girl with a cleft lip who yearns to learn more about words, while facing the challenges of living in a war-torn country.


"The Penderwicks"- By Jeanne Birdsall

My absolute favorite book! The story of a young family of four girls, "The Penderwicks" will warm your heart with the joys, trials, and tribulations of simply growing up. It is a series, so be sure to check out the other two books currently available, "The Penderwicks On Gardam Street" and "The Penderwicks at Point Mouette". 


"Clementine"- By Sara Pennypacker

Although it is a novel written for young children, the fun-loving story of Clementine is entertaining to all ages. Filled with cute, creative illustrations by illustrator, Marla Frazee, "Clementine" is the heart-warming story of a troublesome, but well-intentioned third-grader. Also in this series are "The Talented Clementine", "Clementine's Letter", "Clementine, Friend of the Week", and "Clementine and the Family Meeting".

"Snow Treasure"- By Marie McSwigan

Based on actual events, "Snow Treasure" is the incredible true story of the heroic group of Norwegian children who smuggle thousands of pounds of gold bullion right under the noses of Nazi guards. A heart-stopping thriller, "Snow Treasure" will leave you better acquainted with the little known history of Norway's role in WWII.  

"Understood Betsy"- By Dorothy Canfield

The heartwarming story of a young orphan girl who, after sickness befalls her guardian's household, suddenly finds herself living with the rustic Putney family on their farm. You will fall in love with Ms. Canfield's descriptive and comfortable writing style and the unique and lovable characters she creates.  

"Live Good."- Compiled by Kobi Yamada, Designed by Jenica Wilkie and Steve Potter

The source of inspiration for many of my posts, this creative compilation of inspirational themes and quotes from notable figures in society is a great resource for meditation and reflection. 

"The Legend of Holly Claus"- By Brittney Ryan

One of my very favorite Christmas stories, "The Legend of Holly Claus" is a fanciful depiction of a world unfamiliar to mortals, known as Forever, and the little known tale of Santa Claus's daughter. A captivating story of love and sacrifice, "The Legend of Holly Claus" will warm your heart in the dead of winter.

Movies

"It's a Wonderful Life"

A true classic, "It's a Wonderful Life" is the inspirational story of a man who has an unexpected encounter with an angel before committing his untimely suicide. 

"Akeelah and The Bee"

An inspiring and entertaining film for the whole family, "Akeelah and The Bee" is the story of a young woman who despite the odds of racism and society becomes the champion of Scripp's National Spelling Bee.

"The Emperor's Club"

"The Emperor's Club" is the captivating story of Mr. Hundert, a history teacher at a Catholic boy's school, whose encounter with a "devil make hare" student tests all of his abilities as a virtuous man and teacher. An excellent example of virtue and justice.

"A Charlie Brown Christmas"

Who doesn't love it? "A Charlie Brown Christmas" is always a great reminder of the true meaning of the holiday: the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Disney's "Mulan"

The inspiring tale of a young woman whose love for her father provokes her to make a very dangerous choice, "Mulan" is the thrilling story of a courageous girl who takes her father's place in the fight for China.

Disney's "Tangled"

The beloved story of Rapunzel with a twist, "Tangled" is a beautiful representation of the love and sacrifice that makes for a true "happily-ever-after".

Disney's " The Princess and The Frog"

A great reminder to us all to be on the lookout for the unexpected and to follow our dreams, "The Princess and The Frog" is told through the eyes of a very unlikely princess and her broke, self-centered prince who in the end both have a stunning change of heart. 

Disney's "Brave"

"Brave" is the tale of a Scottish princess named Merida who is trying to find her own destiny in the midst of a somewhat daunting "royal fate"... marriage. When Merida meets an old witch in the forest who gives her an enchanted cake to change her mother, Merida is sure she will change her mind about her daughter's arranged marriage. But when her fate is changed in unexpected ways, she realizes that life wasn't so bad after all. Full of surprises, magic, and tender mother-daughter love, "Brave" is a wonderful reminder to be more grateful for the blessings we already have.

Disney's "The Odd Life of Timothy Green"

"The Odd Life of Timothy Green" is the story of a couple who can't have children but whose desire is so strong that their dream indeed does come true... just not in the way you'd expect. Their son came from a hole in the garden and has leaves (yes, leaves!) growing out of his ankles. And yet, it's not just the leaves that make Timothy unique, it is the way he touches the lives of everyone he meets. Making a dying man laugh, a cranky old woman beautiful, and a very unusual girl feel confident in herself are his specialty. I highly recommend seeing this thought-provoking, moving film made for the whole family.

Music

"Flying" - Composed by James Newton Howard
"Fairy Dance" - Composed by James Newton Howard
"The Face of Christ"- Chris Rice
"The Riddle"- Five for Fighting
"100 Years"- Five for Fighting
"There's Hope"- India Arie
"When You Believe"- Celtic Woman
"You'll Be in My Heart"- Celtic Woman