Book Review: Just When I Thought I’d Dropped My Last Egg: Life and Other Calamities by Kathie Lee Gifford

Just When I Thought I’d Dropped My Last Egg: Life and Other Calamities

by Kathie Lee Gifford

Kathie Lee Gifford’s Just When I Thought I’d Dropped My Last Egg is a candid, hilarious, and heartfelt memoir that showcases the multi-faceted life of a beloved television personality. Released in 2009, the book offers readers a rich tapestry of personal anecdotes, self-deprecating humor, and nuggets of wisdom, all wrapped in Gifford’s signature charm.

Overview and Structure

The book is less a traditional memoir and more a collection of vignettes that weave together the ups and downs of Gifford’s life. Divided into short, digestible essays, it spans topics ranging from her experiences in the spotlight to her roles as a wife, mother, and individual navigating the quirks of modern life. This structure allows readers to dip in and out of the book without losing continuity, making it ideal for those who appreciate light-hearted yet meaningful reading.

The title itself hints at the cheeky tone of the book. “Dropping her last egg” is Gifford’s humorous nod to aging and menopause, a theme she handles with remarkable wit. True to its title, the book balances life’s inevitabilities with resilience and humor.

Themes and Tone

1. Humor in Adversity:
   Gifford’s humor is one of the book’s most endearing qualities. She pokes fun at herself, whether discussing the challenges of aging, embarrassing moments on live TV, or the absurdities of fame. Her willingness to share unflattering or awkward moments humanizes her, making her a relatable figure despite her celebrity status.

   For example, she recounts a live TV mishap when her dress zipper broke moments before going on air. Rather than panic, Gifford embraced the chaos, delivering a segment that had her audience in stitches. These moments not only entertain but also convey a valuable lesson: it’s okay to laugh at life’s imperfections.

2. Navigating Fame:
   As one of the most recognizable faces in daytime television, Gifford offers behind-the-scenes glimpses into the world of showbiz. From her tenure on Live with Regis and Kathie Lee to her time on The Today Show, she reflects on the peculiar challenges of being in the public eye. Her anecdotes about fan encounters, media scrutiny, and on-air blunders are both entertaining and insightful.

   One particularly poignant story involves her infamous departure from Live with Regis and Kathie Lee. Gifford candidly discusses the toll that media gossip took on her family, particularly when she faced accusations of exploiting sweatshop labor for her clothing line. Instead of retreating, she chose to address the issue head-on, an act that underscores her resilience.

3. Faith and Family:
   Gifford’s Christian faith is a central theme, influencing how she approaches challenges and joys alike. Her reflections on spirituality are neither preachy nor overbearing but rather heartfelt and personal. Whether discussing her marriage to sportscaster Frank Gifford, raising her children Cody and Cassidy, or mourning the loss of loved ones, she frames these experiences through the lens of faith and gratitude.

   A particularly touching chapter delves into her relationship with her husband. Gifford shares the joys and struggles of their long marriage, including navigating public scrutiny and personal differences. Her honesty about their imperfections adds depth and authenticity to the book, offering a refreshing contrast to the polished image often associated with celebrity couples.

4. Aging Gracefully:
   Gifford approaches aging with humor and grace, making this a standout theme. She writes openly about menopause, empty nesting, and the shifting priorities that come with getting older. Far from lamenting the passage of time, she embraces it, celebrating the wisdom and freedom that aging brings. Her advice is practical, relatable, and often laugh-out-loud funny, such as her musings on the importance of Spanx and her fondness for wigs.

Writing Style

Gifford’s writing is conversational, as though she’s speaking directly to the reader over coffee. Her voice is warm, genuine, and imbued with a sense of fun. She doesn’t shy away from self-deprecation, often positioning herself as the butt of her own jokes. This approach makes her stories accessible and engaging, even for readers unfamiliar with her television career.

At times, the humor may feel over-the-top or forced, but this is consistent with Gifford’s larger-than-life personality. What some might see as excessive, others will appreciate as a reflection of her vivacious spirit.

Highlights and Memorable Moments

• On Motherhood:
  Gifford’s tales of raising her two children strike a perfect balance between humor and heart. She describes moments of chaos and joy with equal candor, whether recounting the trials of potty training or the bittersweetness of watching her kids leave for college.

• The Role of Faith:
  Her reflections on faith are among the book’s most moving passages. Gifford speaks openly about how her belief in God has sustained her through difficult times, from career setbacks to personal loss.

• Life in the Spotlight:
  The book is peppered with celebrity anecdotes that provide a window into Gifford’s glamorous yet unpredictable world. Whether she’s recounting an awkward encounter with a Hollywood A-lister or a behind-the-scenes mishap, these stories are as entertaining as they are illuminating.

Critique

While Just When I Thought I’d Dropped My Last Egg is undeniably enjoyable, it’s not without its flaws. The episodic nature of the book, while a strength in terms of readability, can make it feel disjointed. There’s little overarching narrative or thematic cohesion, which might disappoint readers looking for a more traditional memoir.

Additionally, Gifford’s humor, though delightful for the most part, occasionally ventures into the realm of cliché or over-sentimentality. For readers less familiar with her personality, this might come across as overly saccharine or performative.

Conclusion

Just When I Thought I’d Dropped My Last Egg is a delightful read that offers a glimpse into the life of one of television’s most enduring personalities. Kathie Lee Gifford’s humor, candor, and warmth shine through every page, making this book a celebration of resilience, faith, and the power of laughter.

While it may not satisfy those seeking a deep, introspective memoir, it excels as a lighthearted and uplifting collection of life lessons. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Gifford or simply in need of a good laugh, this book is a worthwhile addition to your reading list.

Ultimately, Gifford reminds us that life’s calamities—big or small—are best faced with a sense of humor and a grateful heart. For that reason alone, Just When I Thought I’d Dropped My Last Egg is a book worth savoring.

The Jesus I Know: Honest Conversations and Diverse Opinions about Who He Is by Kathie Lee Gifford

 

Listen to this audiobook with your local library 

Or click HERE to purchase

The Jesus I Know: Honest Conversations and Diverse Opinions about Who He Is by Kathie Lee Gifford

Kathie Lee Gifford’s The Jesus I Know is an inviting exploration of faith, belief, and personal encounters with Jesus Christ, offering a tapestry of perspectives from a diverse range of individuals. Known for her career as a television host, actress, and singer, Gifford turns her talents toward facilitating honest and engaging conversations about spirituality. Her warm approach enables readers to connect with each narrative, regardless of their own faith background.

Overview

In The Jesus I Know, Gifford interviews an eclectic mix of celebrities, friends, and spiritual mentors about their views on Jesus. Each chapter centers around a different person’s journey, including moments of doubt, discovery, and devotion. The book is not about theology or religious dogma but rather about personal experiences, making it accessible to a broad audience.

The contributors come from varied walks of life and belief systems. Some identify as devout Christians, others as seekers or skeptics. This inclusivity allows the book to paint a nuanced picture of faith, demonstrating that the question "Who is Jesus to you?" can elicit deeply personal and varied responses.

Structure and Style

Gifford’s conversational style shines throughout the book. Each chapter feels less like a formal interview and more like a heartfelt exchange between friends. The tone is conversational yet respectful, as Gifford allows her subjects to express themselves without judgment or interruption. Her own reflections bookend the stories, offering a touch of her personality and spiritual insights without overshadowing her interviewees.

The book is structured as a collection of standalone chapters, each focusing on a different person’s perspective. This format makes it easy for readers to dip in and out, as each narrative has its own arc. Gifford’s thoughtful questions guide the conversations, ensuring they are not only relatable but also spiritually profound.

Strengths

One of the greatest strengths of The Jesus I Know is its diversity. Gifford’s choice to feature voices from various faith traditions, cultural backgrounds, and walks of life reflects the universal appeal of Jesus as a figure who transcends religious boundaries. Readers encounter stories from people who have found Jesus in traditional church settings, through personal crises, or even in unexpected moments of grace.

The honesty in the conversations is another highlight. Gifford’s subjects speak openly about their struggles, doubts, and triumphs, making their stories authentic and relatable. Whether it’s a story of redemption from addiction, a journey through grief, or a reflection on the joy of faith, each narrative offers something that resonates deeply.

Moreover, the book avoids preaching or proselytizing. Gifford emphasizes that faith is a deeply personal journey and invites readers to explore their own understanding of Jesus, rather than prescribing a single "right" way to believe. This approach is refreshing and likely to appeal to readers who might be wary of overtly religious literature.

Notable Conversations

Some standout chapters include:

• Kristin Chenoweth: The Broadway star shares how her faith has sustained her throughout her career, offering an inspiring account of balancing fame and spirituality.
• Chynna Phillips: As part of the musical trio Wilson Phillips, Chynna’s story of coming to faith through personal struggles is both poignant and powerful.
• Jimmie Allen: The country singer discusses the role of faith in his music and how he views Jesus as a source of creativity and purpose.
• Friends Outside the Spotlight: Gifford also includes heartfelt stories from people who are not celebrities but have profoundly impacted her own faith journey. These chapters provide a grounding contrast to the high-profile names and add an everyman quality to the book.

Gifford’s Personal Insights

While the interviews are the heart of the book, Gifford’s reflections tie the narratives together. Her genuine enthusiasm for Jesus and her deep respect for the varied paths people take toward faith are evident. She frequently shares her own experiences of Jesus, weaving them seamlessly with those of her subjects. This personal touch adds depth and context, reminding readers that Gifford is not merely a host but also a participant in the spiritual exploration.

Areas for Improvement

While the book’s conversational tone is engaging, some readers might find the lack of a cohesive narrative or theological depth a drawback. The Jesus I Know is not a deep dive into doctrine or a systematic exploration of faith. Instead, it’s a collection of personal stories, which may leave some readers wanting more intellectual or theological rigor.

Additionally, the focus on celebrities, while likely to attract readers, may feel somewhat exclusive. Though Gifford does include stories from non-celebrities, the balance leans heavily toward well-known figures. Some readers might wish for more representation of everyday believers to round out their perspectives.

Another critique is that Gifford’s commentary, though heartfelt, occasionally veers into repetition. Her enthusiasm for Jesus and her interviewees’ stories is evident, but it sometimes feels like she is reiterating points rather than delving deeper into new insights.

Themes and Takeaways

The central theme of The Jesus I Know is the accessibility and universality of Jesus. Gifford’s subjects reveal that Jesus is not confined to a single culture, denomination, or set of practices. Instead, he meets people where they are, offering hope, love, and transformation in ways that are unique to each individual.

Another key takeaway is the power of storytelling in faith. The book underscores how personal testimonies can inspire and connect people, fostering a sense of shared humanity and divine presence.

Finally, the book emphasizes grace and openness. Gifford’s inclusive approach invites readers to explore their own spiritual questions without fear of judgment. This non-dogmatic tone is one of the book’s most appealing qualities.

Conclusion

The Jesus I Know is a heartfelt and uplifting book that celebrates the diversity of faith journeys. Kathie Lee Gifford’s ability to draw out honest and moving stories from her interviewees makes this a compelling read for anyone curious about Jesus or seeking encouragement in their spiritual life. While it may not satisfy readers looking for theological depth or a tightly structured narrative, its strength lies in its authenticity and inclusivity.

This book is ideal for readers who appreciate memoir-style faith literature, are curious about how others experience Jesus, or simply want to be inspired by stories of grace and transformation. Whether you’re a lifelong Christian, a spiritual seeker, or someone navigating doubts, The Jesus I Know offers a reminder that faith is as unique and personal as the people who embrace it.

Why I Stayed: The Choices I Made in My Darkest Hour

 

Why I Stayed: The Choices I Made in My Darkest Hour

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"Why I Stayed: The Choices I Made in My Darkest Hour" by Gayle Haggard

In "Why I Stayed: The Choices I Made in My Darkest Hour," Gayle Haggard takes readers on a deeply personal journey of faith, betrayal, and redemption. The memoir reflects her experiences as the wife of Ted Haggard, the once-prominent evangelical pastor whose public downfall shocked the Christian community and beyond. Gayle Haggard’s raw and courageous recounting of her emotions, struggles, and decisions in the aftermath of her husband's scandal provides a unique insight into the complexities of marriage, faith, and personal resilience.

A Story of Betrayal and Crisis

Ted Haggard was the founder of the New Life Church in Colorado Springs and the leader of the National Association of Evangelicals (NAE) when a scandal erupted in 2006 that would change the Haggard family's life forever. Haggard was accused of engaging in sexual relations with a male prostitute and using methamphetamine, which he had vehemently denied. In the public eye, Ted Haggard’s fall from grace was swift and dramatic. He was quickly removed from his positions and his family’s life was thrust into the spotlight.

Gayle Haggard’s story begins with the unimaginable revelation of her husband's actions and her overwhelming sense of betrayal. Throughout the book, Gayle is candid about the shock and disbelief she experienced when the truth came to light. She writes with vulnerability about her initial feelings of anger, confusion, and isolation. The pain of learning that the man she had loved and trusted for so long was not the person he had portrayed to the world was a deep wound that threatened to destroy not only her marriage but also her faith.

A Journey of Faith and Forgiveness

One of the central themes of "Why I Stayed" is Gayle Haggard’s journey of faith through a crisis that tested every aspect of her spiritual and personal life. As a devout Christian woman, Gayle had built her identity around her marriage, her role as a supportive wife, and her devotion to her family. The shock of her husband's betrayal forced her to confront her beliefs about forgiveness, grace, and the nature of marriage.

At first, Gayle was understandably conflicted. She questioned everything she thought she knew about love and marriage, and she struggled with the idea of staying with a man who had lied to her and betrayed her trust so publicly. Yet, in the midst of her pain, Gayle found solace in her faith. She draws heavily on her Christian beliefs to guide her through the emotional turmoil. Gayle emphasizes that her decision to stay with Ted was not one of weakness, but one of strength rooted in her faith in God and her belief in the power of redemption.

One of the most poignant aspects of the book is Gayle’s reflections on forgiveness. She discusses how, in the process of working through her emotions, she had to confront the difficult reality that forgiveness was not only for Ted but also for herself. She shares her belief that forgiveness is a key component of healing, not just for the one who has been wronged, but for the one who has been hurt as well. Gayle writes that forgiveness is an act of strength, and through it, she was able to find peace and healing, both for herself and for her marriage.

The Struggles of Public Judgment

Throughout the memoir, Gayle Haggard also addresses the profound challenge of dealing with public judgment. As the wife of a high-profile figure, Gayle’s private life became fodder for the media and the public. She recounts the harsh criticism, gossip, and invasive questions she received from both the public and the religious community. The pressure to conform to expectations of how a “Christian wife” should react to such a scandal was overwhelming. People expected her to leave Ted, to renounce him, and to publicly denounce his actions. Instead, Gayle chose to stay with her husband and work through their issues, a decision that led to both admiration and condemnation.

The emotional toll of facing public scrutiny is evident throughout the book. Gayle writes about how she struggled with the loneliness of feeling misunderstood, judged, and at times, abandoned by her community. She found herself torn between the love for her husband, the responsibility she felt for their children, and the need for support from those around her. At times, she felt alienated from her friends, family, and even her church, as many people could not understand her decision to stay.

A Tale of Redemption and Hope

Despite the many trials and heartache Gayle faced, "Why I Stayed" ultimately becomes a story of hope and redemption. The Haggards' marriage did not remain broken; over time, with effort and healing, they began to rebuild their relationship. Gayle speaks to the importance of counseling, open communication, and the willingness to embrace both the painful realities and the possibility of growth. She shares the small but significant moments of healing, such as Ted's own journey toward recovery, his public confession, and the changes he made in his life. While their story is far from perfect, it is a testament to the power of perseverance and faith.

Gayle’s reflections on the long-term effects of the scandal on her family are poignant. She acknowledges that the process of healing is ongoing and that the road to full recovery will never be entirely smooth. The scars from the betrayal remain, but they are no longer the defining feature of their lives. Gayle writes that through it all, she has learned to embrace the complexities of her faith and her marriage, and she has found peace in knowing that redemption is possible, even in the darkest of hours.

Conclusion: A Powerful and Vulnerable Memoir

"Why I Stayed: The Choices I Made in My Darkest Hour" is a powerful and vulnerable memoir that offers an intimate look into the complexities of faith, marriage, and personal strength. Gayle Haggard’s decision to stay with her husband after his public scandal is a deeply personal one, and her willingness to share her journey will resonate with anyone who has faced betrayal, judgment, or crisis in their own life. The book offers insight not only into the personal toll of Ted Haggard’s fall from grace but also into the profound emotional and spiritual growth that can emerge from such a devastating experience.

Ultimately, Gayle Haggard’s story is one of resilience, forgiveness, and hope. It is a reminder that while the darkness of betrayal can be overwhelming, it does not have to be the end of the story. With faith, courage, and determination, it is possible to navigate even the most challenging of circumstances and emerge stronger on the other side. "Why I Stayed" is not just a story about the Haggard family; it is a story about the power of choice, the strength of the human spirit, and the redemptive power of love and faith.

Paths of Faith in Albania

Paths of Faith in Albania

The mountains loomed high over the small village of Tropojë in northern Albania. This was where David and Maria, two Christian missionaries, had settled to serve. They’d arrived from the United States a month earlier, still adjusting to the winding, rocky roads, the lingering traces of communist-era buildings, and a warm and wary culture.

Arrival in Albania

Albania was unlike anywhere David and Maria had been before. Here, history was complex and painful, with a long legacy of Soviet influence, an official atheist stance until the early 1990s, and a mix of Islamic and Christian beliefs woven into the culture. The village had deep traditions, where the younger generation worked abroad in countries like Germany or Greece, sending money back to their families. Those who stayed tended sheep, farmed small plots of land, and struggled to make ends meet in a system where opportunities felt scarce.

The missionaries had come with the hope of spreading their faith, but also to offer practical assistance—education, healthcare, and community support. However, they soon realized that establishing relationships and building trust would take more time and understanding than they had anticipated.

Building Trust

The villagers, especially the elders, were skeptical of outsiders and unfamiliar religions. Maria noticed that, though they were polite, the people avoided talking openly about faith. One man, Gëzim, a local farmer, voiced their sentiments directly. “You have good hearts, but you cannot understand us or our history,” he told them one evening as they sat around a fire, trying to engage in a meaningful conversation.

Gëzim explained that religion had long been a delicate issue. The communist regime had outlawed all religious practices and destroyed countless mosques and churches, instilling suspicion toward any form of organized faith. Many Albanians saw religion as something foreign, a relic of the past that had been forcibly erased from their lives.

David listened closely, realizing that their mission would need to be reshaped. “We’re here to help,” he said softly, “not to force anyone to change. Our faith calls us to serve, and we’re here to do just that. Whatever we can offer, let us know.”

Finding Common Ground

In the following weeks, David and Maria shifted their approach. Rather than preaching directly, they focused on serving the immediate needs of the community. Maria, with her background in nursing, organized free health check-ups. She set up a makeshift clinic in a small room next to the local school, where she tended to everything from scrapes and bruises to advising on chronic conditions. The village’s closest hospital was miles away, so Maria’s presence became invaluable.

David, meanwhile, started teaching English to the children. He knew that many Albanians saw English as a pathway to better opportunities, especially if they intended to travel or work abroad. Slowly, children gathered for lessons, and their parents would sometimes linger outside, listening in. These small acts of service gradually warmed the villagers to the missionaries.

One of the children, a boy named Lir, took a special interest in the English classes. Lir was twelve and exceptionally bright, yet his family struggled to afford school supplies, let alone extra lessons. David noticed the boy’s dedication and often stayed late, helping him with reading and writing. Soon, the villagers began to see that David and Maria were here not just to talk about their beliefs but to genuinely support the village’s future.

Challenges with the Government

As their work gained traction, the missionaries faced obstacles from the local government. Albania’s bureaucracy was notoriously complicated, and the government looked upon religious activities, especially those initiated by foreigners, with suspicion. Officials from the regional capital occasionally visited, issuing warnings to the missionaries and threatening to shut down their projects.

One evening, a stern-faced official arrived with a small entourage. He warned David and Maria that they were in violation of the country’s laws concerning foreign influence and religious activities. “We appreciate your help, but Albania has had enough of foreign hands meddling in our affairs,” he said sharply.

The missionaries’ local contacts intervened, trying to explain that the work was non-political and aimed at helping the community. Gëzim, once a skeptic, vouched for them passionately. “They have shown us respect and care when no one else did. They’ve treated our children like their own. How can this be a threat?”

The official listened but remained cautious, leaving them with the understanding that they would be closely monitored. David and Maria were shaken but undeterred. They discussed it that night, realizing that to truly help, they had to tread carefully, navigating both the people’s needs and the government’s strict boundaries.

An Unexpected Ally

During their challenges with the local government, the missionaries found an unexpected ally in a young woman named Iliriana, who worked as a teacher in the village. Iliriana had studied in Tirana, Albania’s capital, and returned to her village to give back to her community. Though initially distant, she began to warm up to Maria and David after seeing the positive changes they brought.

One evening, as they shared a simple meal, Iliriana opened up about her struggles. “Our country is beautiful, but the opportunities are few. Many of my students will leave, and I fear for the future of this place.” She was passionate about Albania’s future, and though not a Christian herself, she respected the missionaries’ dedication.

Iliriana became a bridge between David and Maria and the villagers, explaining Albanian customs, culture, and the weight of the country’s history. She also encouraged the children to attend the English classes, seeing them vital for their future. Through her, the missionaries could reach a deeper understanding of how they could genuinely help without imposing their beliefs.

Embracing the Journey

By the end of their first year in Tropojë, David and Maria had become part of the fabric of the village. They had learned that true service meant setting aside expectations and meeting people where they were. Their English classes had grown, and the health clinic had become a trusted part of the community.

Lir, the young boy David tutored, even began to teach his friends the English he’d learned. His parents, once skeptical, now looked at David and Maria with gratitude and pride, knowing their son’s future was a little brighter.

They continued to face challenges. Occasionally, officials would remind them of the “guidelines” they were expected to follow, and some villagers remained guarded. But now, they had allies within the community and a growing network of support.

As they walked through the village one spring afternoon, David looked up at the snow-capped mountains, feeling humbled. This wasn’t the mission they had initially envisioned; it was harder and slower. But it was real, and it mattered. The Albanian people had given them a new perspective on faith, one that valued patience, understanding, and genuine connection over fast results.

Maria looked at him and smiled. “This is the journey we were meant for,” she said. And in that moment, surrounded by the warmth of a small village nestled in Albania’s ancient hills, they knew they had found their place.

Apps to Listen to Audio Books

 

APPS to listen to Audiobooks

Some library have a large range of Movies and Music

You will need to check with your library to see which ones they use

I personally use 4 of these APPS at this time

Libby

Hoopla Digital

Everand

Everand has 3 different subscription levels with unlimited access to many magazines,

Podcast and Sheeet Music.

Audible at Amazon

Has different levels: Unlimited listening access to many books included in the membership

Please use the above link for Amazon so I can receive a renumeration.

Many libraries support apps that allow users to borrow and listen to audiobooks for free with a library card. Below are the most commonly used apps and links to download them:

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1. Libby by OverDrive

Libby is one of the most popular library-supported apps for borrowing audiobooks and eBooks.

• Features:

  • Stream or download audiobooks for offline listening.
  • Easy-to-use interface with bookmarking and playback speed controls.
  • Syncs across devices.

• Download Links:

  • Libby for iOS (App Store)
  • Libby for Android (Google Play)

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2. Hoopla Digital

Hoopla offers a wide range of audiobooks, movies, TV shows, music, and eBooks, with no waiting lists.

• Features:

  • Instantly borrow and stream audiobooks.
  • Offline listening with downloads.
  • Includes other media content like movies and music.

• Download Links:

  • Hoopla for iOS (App Store)
  • Hoopla for Android (Google Play)

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3. BorrowBox

BorrowBox is available through many libraries and specializes in audiobooks and eBooks.

• Features:

  • Offers a curated selection of audiobooks.
  • Easy borrowing and returning system.
  • Offline listening.

• Download Links:

  • BorrowBox for iOS (App Store)
  • BorrowBox for Android (Google Play)

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4. CloudLibrary

CloudLibrary is another popular option used by some libraries for audiobooks and eBooks.

• Features:

  • Borrow and stream audiobooks.
  • User-friendly interface with syncing across devices.

• Download Links:

  • CloudLibrary for iOS (App Store)
  • CloudLibrary for Android (Google Play)

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5. Axis 360

Axis 360 provides access to audiobooks and eBooks from your library's collection.

• Features:

  • Stream or download audiobooks.
  • Integrated bookshelf for tracking borrowed items.

• Download Links:

  • Axis 360 for iOS (App Store)
  • Axis 360 for Android (Google Play)

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6. SimplyE

Created by the New York Public Library, SimplyE aggregates content from various platforms into one app.

• Features:

  • Combines audiobooks and eBooks from different sources.
  • Seamless integration with library systems.

• Download Links:

  • SimplyE for iOS (App Store)
  • SimplyE for Android (Google Play)

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7. RBdigital (Now Merged with Libby)

Many libraries have migrated their RBdigital collections to Libby. If your library still uses RBdigital, you can find the app here:

• Download Links:
  • RBdigital for iOS (App Store)
  • RBdigital for Android (Google Play)

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Check with your local library to determine which app they support and how to connect your library card.

Breaking Free From Debt

 November 1, 2024 - Devotional: Breaking Free from Debt

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Scripture:

"The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender."
— Proverbs 22:7 (NIV)

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Reflection:

Debt can feel like a heavy weight that keeps us from moving freely in life. It often steals our peace, our joy, and our ability to give generously. Financial burdens can also strain relationships and limit opportunities. Many people feel stuck in a cycle they can’t seem to escape, even though the Bible promises freedom for God’s people. So, how can we find a way out?

Today’s verse from Proverbs reminds us of the reality of debt’s hold over us. When we owe, we are tied to the lender, which can feel like an unseen chain on our lives. But God has a plan for freedom—not just spiritually but also in every area of our lives, including finances. While it’s a challenging journey, we can take steps toward financial freedom, trusting that God is our provider, our guide, and our strength.

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Steps Toward Freedom:

1. Seek Wisdom from God
   Ask God for wisdom in managing your resources and understanding your financial choices. Prayerfully consider changes in spending habits, and look for areas where you can cut back. God cares about every aspect of your life, and He wants you to walk in freedom.

2. Set a Plan and Stick to It
   With God’s help, set a realistic debt repayment plan. Even small, consistent payments can make a difference over time. Remember, each payment brings you one step closer to freedom.

3. Practice Contentment
   In a world constantly pushing us to want more, pray for contentment. Being grateful for what we have and trusting God for what we need are powerful ways to counter the urge to overspend.

4. Ask for Help
   God doesn’t expect you to walk this path alone. Seek counsel from a financial advisor, trusted friend, or church leader if you need guidance. And remember that God’s strength is made perfect in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).

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Prayer:

Heavenly Father,
Thank You for being our ultimate Provider. Today, we bring our financial burdens to You, knowing that You care for every detail of our lives. Give us wisdom and strength as we work toward financial freedom. Help us to make wise choices, to trust You completely, and to experience true peace and contentment. Teach us to honor You in all areas of our lives, including our finances. We thank You in advance for the freedom You are leading us into. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Challenge for Today:

Take a small step toward financial freedom by making an extra payment toward a debt this month, even if it’s small. Dedicate this act to God as a sign of your trust in His provision and your commitment to living in freedom.