I've always LOVED to read! I have strong memories of my youth reading such books as "I Lived On Mulberry Street," "Hop on Pop," "A Home For a Bunny" and so many others... My bookshelves were always full!

The most important memory that ties directly to BookCrossing.com however, is from when I was in elementary school. I'm not sure which year - I believe it to be 3rd grade. Our teacher decided to have a "book trading" day. :) I had brought in SO many books, that they ran out of ones to trade me! *laughs* I just remember being so excited about the event, and so proud that I had so many books to share. I ended up with books I would have never chosen on my own, but turned out to love!

So, to all of you - remember the childhood wonder of the magic a book could possess - absorb every word, image and thought that seeps from its pages. Books are our friends - the greatest friends that never mean harm, won't lie, but will always tell stories behind your back. But at least they are good stories! Set your books free - if you love something, let it go! Your book will open the minds of many, and have an exciting adventure to places you didn't know existed - just like your book has already so selflessly given you. :) Pay it forward!