Book Review: "The Living Room" by Bill Rolfe

Have you ever been in a place that was so beautiful it touched your soul? A view so amazing it made you feel whole inside?

The author of "The Living Room", Bill Rolfe, had a dream about such a place. In the tradition of Stephanie Meyers, he turned his dream into a compelling novel.

Daniel is living a life many would envy. He has money and power, and has recently inherited a beautiful home in England. He senses the hollowness of his existence as he makes the decision to inspect his new property before putting it on the market.

Daniel's journey not only changes his life, but that of a beautiful nurse he encounters in his new town. It also has a significant impact on many of her patients, critically ill children. Readers will learn more about themselves, including the value of life and sacrifice, as they experience this novel, a beautiful read.

You can get more information about this project at www.TheLivingRoomStory.com. 

Learn more about Bill's story here. 

You can purchase your won copy of "The Living Room" here and see the book trailer here. 

Take Control of Your Life!

About 18 months ago I decided some changes were needed. I felt that too many aspects of my life were slipping out of control.

At times, events happen that can make us feel lost and helpless. This was not the case for me. I had allowed my priorities to become misplaced and had over-committed myself. It was past time for a new plan.

Of course I wanted everything to change right then.  But that's not possible in even the best of circumstances.  My home was in disarray. My health was not good. I struggled to find time for friends. I often felt sad and alone. I decided to focus on one thing at a time.

I began with my house. I was struggling to keep it clean, and many things needed maintaining. It was overwhelming, especially when combined with the demands of work and classes for my PhD.

I decided to at least take a step. I made sure my bed was made every morning. Not just on weekends, or on days when I had an extra few minutes before work. Every morning.

As it turned out, this three-minute task changed my life.

Have you ever done one small thing that made a huge difference?

The Power of Making Your Bed

I recently read an article about gaining control of your life. One thing mentioned that had made the most impact was making your bed on a daily basis. Many people see an unmade bed as a reproach or a confirmation of their ineptitude. Others view it as a symbol of the disorder and chaos all around them.

Making your bed takes an average of three minutes. It can be done mindlessly, or in collaboration with another family member. It gives a measure of order to your bedroom. When you return in the evening, it's one less thing to be done.

So, what does this have to do about disabilities? Many times aspects of a physical or intellectual challenge jump up and knock our lives out of kilter. Making your bed gives you back just a little control. It gives you hope for order in the universe. It removes a potential source of agitation. It inspires you to take care of other things you have procrastinated.

This was an overwhelming week. I had family members in the direct path of a superstorm. I wanted to rent the largest vehicle I could find, fill the tank with gas cans, and go get them. I felt helpless.

I found more productive ways to help them by sending in food. I cleaned out a closet in my own house. I met my personal and work responsibilities. I felt a little stronger, more in charge.

We can't always control the events in our lives. But we can carefully choose our actions and reactions. So, go make your bed and look around to see other ways you can improve your life.