Inspired & Growing

Nothing says cozy quite like curling up in a comfy chair, hearing the wind whip outside, with a ball of yarn on your lap and your hands moving in quiet rhythm. Add in a good audiobook or a show playing in the background, and you have the perfect recipe for fall and winter evenings. I think that’s why knitting (or crocheting) feels like the perfect hobby for the colder months. I’ll be the first to admit I’m not an expert knitter. My projects lean toward the simple, repetitive kind—scarves being my specialty. But there’s only so much room in one’s closet for scarf after scarf. That’s when I discovered a beautiful connection: knitting can become an act of giving. Virtual volunteering opened a door for me. It allows me to merge something I enjoy with a way to help others—without the rigid time commitments that can add stress to a busy schedule. Instead of thinking of volunteering as another obligation, I now see it as a blessing. I’m grateful to have the means and the opportunity to br...

Thank you NetGalley and Del Rey, Random House Worlds, Inklore for this ARC. After reading Under the Oak Tree Volume 1 earlier this year—and naming it my book of the year—I was absolutely elated to be approved for an advance copy of Volume 2. Many thanks! Under the Oak Tree: Volume 2 is a deeply satisfying continuation that enriches the story in every way. This volume keeps Maxi at the heart of the narrative as she steps further into her own strength. We see her actively challenge her negative thoughts, confront her fears, and push herself to grow rather than hide. Her journey is quiet but powerful—built on determination, vulnerability, and the desire to stand confidently in her own worth. Riftan and Maxi’s relationship continues to navigate the tension between Riftan’s protective instincts and Maxi’s need for independence, yet the love between them remains steady and genuine. Their missteps and misunderstandings feel honest, and the emotional intimacy—often shown in small, thoughtf...

  October carries a quiet reminder written across the trees: it’s time to let go. The leaves turn brilliant, then loosen their hold, drifting to the ground in a graceful surrender. Nature doesn’t fight this process—it trusts that letting go is part of the cycle of renewal. People often hold on tighter. Old thoughts, outdated habits, and expectations we’ve placed on ourselves, or others can cling to us like heavy branches refusing to shed their leaves. At first, they may have brought comfort or structure, but over time, they weigh us down. Carrying them into each new season leaves little room for growth, clarity, or peace. For me, one of those habits to release was working through my lunch hour. On the surface, it seemed productive—7 more emails answered, one more project pushed forward. But over time, I realized it was draining me. I wasn’t giving myself space to pause, nourish, or breathe. Instead of helping me get ahead, it left me running on empty. Holding onto this “always ...

Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the chance to read this unforgettable story.  While reading the book, I couldn’t help but wonder if I would have had Emerson’s courage.  And Harper Ross, the author of this book, I loved the note to the reader. The Unwritten Rules of Magic is far more than a story about supernatural wishes — it’s a beautifully layered reflection on family, grief, and the way we try to rewrite the painful parts of our lives. What stood out most to me were the themes woven through every chapter: how secrets can shape generations, and how healing often begins when we stop trying to control everything and start accepting what is. The story reveals how our desire to “fix” life can sometimes blur what truly matters and distance us from the people we love most. The author captures the ache of watching a parent fade, the complexity of motherhood, and the courage it takes to forgive — ourselves and others. It’s heartfelt, thoughtful, and filled ...

I wish boundaries were simple. On paper, they sound so clear: decide what matters, protect your time, say no when you need to. But in real life, it’s not that straightforward. Each situation feels different. I get caught off guard, and in the moment, I don’t always know the right response. What has helped me is giving myself a little script to lean on when I’m put on the spot. It goes something like this: First, I acknowledge the request. “I’d love for you to stop by today.” Then, I’m honest about where I’m at. “I’m a bit overwhelmed right now.” And finally, I offer another option. “Can I call you next week? Hopefully things will have calmed down by then.” It’s simple, but I’ve found it works most of the time. Memorizing this little pattern gives me something to fall back on when the ask catches me off guard .   Still, I’ve learned that boundaries aren’t rigid lines carved in stone. They’re more like gentle guides, helping me protect my energy in everyday life. And yet, there are s...

Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for the opportunity to read and review T he Story Keeper by Kelly Rimmer—and thank you, Kelly, for your gratitude to reviewers; it’s appreciated and felt!   Kelly Rimmer has crafted an unforgettable novel that drew me in from the very first chapter. At its heart, the story explores family, identity, and impacts across generations. The story of the past and present are woven seamlessly, with characters’ histories shaping their choices and emotions today. The story also carries a meaningful lesson: some secrets are helpful to release, as it gives others the opportunity to understand. The characters are complex, relatable, and deeply human, each carrying their own burdens and hopes. The relationships—both strained and loving—felt authentic, reminding me how fragile yet enduring family can be. I didn’t expect where the story went, and with how much I read, it’s rare for a book to genuinely surprise me—but this one did. Rimmer’s writing is...

  In today’s fast-changing workplace, being AI literate isn’t a bonus—it’s becoming a necessity. AI literacy means more than mastering fancy tools. It’s about knowing how to use AI well — understanding its strengths, limits, and ethical side. It’s also about staying curious, thinking critically, and adapting . Not knowing AI can mean falling behind: missed promotions, lost opportunities, or having someone else step in who does understand. But it’s never too late to start. I’m leaning into it: exploring tools, using them for everyday work tasks, and building my skills more intentionally. How I’m Using AI at Work At work, Microsoft Copilot recently became available. Not knowing much about AI, I started using it in place of Google. What a game changer! Instead of being bombarded with dozens of links, I get precise responses—and sometimes even follow-up prompts to dig deeper. It cuts down the chatter and lets me focus on what matters. One of my favorite uses is the “ better...