So why am I such a fan? I was fortunate enough to grow up in the neighboring province of Nova Scotia, and spent very many summers camping in Anne land. It's really as beautiful as the story describes and as the film depicts. Of course nowadays it is rather touristy with thousands of people from all over the world flocking to see exactly where this international celebrity was inspired. You can take a ride on Matthew Cuthbert's wagon ride around Green Gables, or roam through the haunted woods and imagine Anne and Diane's harrowing experience when Anne fell into the dark hole. Or you can merely sit on the red sand dunes, overlooking the ocean, and let yourself be inspired as both Lucy Maud Montgomery and her created character, Anne, were. One can be entertained by the play in Charlottetown, or visit the multitude of Anne shops -- from cookbooks, to dolls, to t-shirts.

Lucy Maud Montgomery stories are not only well-written but they're also heartwarming with positive messages interweaved in between the pages. It takes us back to a more innocent era where we find a delightful character that's full of hope and lives life to the fullest. Anne lives in the present moment, embracing nature and all those around her where she finds true joy in her relationships with both young and old. I miss this kind of writer -- one who inspires with a simple, clean story and who brings out an unconditional love for this feisty, loveable red-head. If you haven't had the opportunity to read these books, take the time. We need positive messages circulating in our world and hopeful feelings. When we are inspired by what we read, we can be motivated to serve as a source of inspiration to those around us.