A Closer Look at the Book: Tinker in the Tanker

Daddy worked a new job in the winter of 1979. After losing his business in a devastating fire (Daddy Was A Carpenter) he and Mother had to take new jobs to make ends meet.

And so began an unexpected journey for our family.

It was adventurous.

It was unfamiliar.

It was hard.

But I thought my parents were heroes. I could see the struggle, yet I knew everything was going to be okay. Why? Because we believed.

Daddy drove a milk truck for Fairmont Creamery in Council Grove, Kansas. As we had done before, Sister and I took turns going to work with Daddy. This story is the memory of my turn.

I had seen my daddy work hard, putting in long hours.

I had seen my daddy finish the job he was responsible to do.

I had seen my daddy’s courage, even through the dark times.

On this trip? It would be my turn.

If you would like to know more about this book visit http://www.shellysimoneaustories.com

I would love to hear from you! Until then remember…

You can do anything!

Shelly Simoneau

Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. – Joshua 1:9

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Character Takes Courage

 

When I was very young Momma took us to town to run errands. When we returned home she gasped loudly just as we turned into the driveway. There on the front steps of the house was a rattlesnake, coiled and cooling on the smooth cement.

We must have sat in that car just watching it forever, before Momma looked over the seat at us sisters in the back and said, “Stay here. I’m gonna take care of this and then we’ll go in the house.”

Just like that. Then she got out of the car and went into the garage. She came out with a spade and walked boldly toward the snake. I closed my eyes. Tight.

When I opened them the snake was limp over the blade of the spade. Momma nodded to us, letting us know without words that we could get out of the car.

I wanted to be just like Momma when I grew up…

This was a choice of courage on display, an unintended contribution to the building of character in the three young girls watching. This event and others, the moments in life when I decided (I want to…), or pondered (Someone once told me…), or questioned (Have you seen…?) are reflections of impressionable circumstances that have carried my own character forward.

If we courageously choose to continue the display of good character, it has a ripple effect, making a difference in not just one life, but in many. Even a small stone, when thrown into the water, will create a ripple.

This is the purpose of my books, my stories. This, for me, is reason to share. Every good story, no matter how big or small, is the beginning of a ripple. Ripples can carry hope, encouragement, and inspiration. They can share values, lessons, and wisdom. Just a tiny drop of courage to share is all it takes.

Let’s take time to observe and reflect. Let’s challenge each other to continue to share positive, encouraging books and stories. Let’s start a ripple.

Visit the News and Reviews page at www.shellysimoneaustories.com to see specific character lessons for books and stories I share with children and adults of all ages.

And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another— Hebrews 10:24-25