Inspired & Growing

Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. The Flowers Library is a beautifully layered story that blends emotion, memory, and longing in a way that feels both intimate and quietly powerful. L. C. Cho writes with a softness that still manages to carry weight — the kind of prose that lingers. One of my favorite elements was the inclusion of the Heart Notes and Base Notes before each chapter. That structure added such a thoughtful, sensory layer to the reading experience. It felt intentional and immersive — almost like being invited to pause and breathe before stepping into the next emotional movement of the story. Those notes deepened the atmosphere and reinforced how scent, memory, and feeling are intertwined. Lucy, as a main character, felt incredibly real to me. I appreciated how the story explores the way assumptions can quietly take root and begin directing our emotions and choices. Lucy often lets what she *thinks* is true shape ...

Thank you NetGalley, Random House Worlds, Penguin Random House, and  Inklore for this ARC .   From the very beginning of this series, it has been clear that Maxi and Riftan are not simply lovers separated by circumstance—they are two broken souls who desperately need to come true with each other. In Volume 3, that emotional truth deepens in ways that lingered long after I turned the final page. This volume does not rush healing. Instead, it lingers in misunderstandings, pride, fear, and longing. Maxi continues her steady, hard-earned growth—learning her own strength, her own voice, and her own worth. Riftan, equally wounded in his own way, loves fiercely. Watching them struggle toward one another—rather than simply fall together—feels painfully real. Their love is not soft fantasy; it is complicated, bruised, and deeply human. What struck me most in this volume is the emotional tension. Every conversation feels weighted. Every silence feels loud. There is so much unsaid b...

I am so excited that  @theeverygirl  has finally started  The Everygirl Book Club  — I feel like I’ve been waiting forever for this! Their very first pick is The Compound by Aisling Rawle . The Compound is a fast, edgy novel about a group of young people competing on a reality TV show set in a remote desert compound. As the contestants complete challenges and chase prizes, the cameras are always watching, and it becomes hard to tell what’s real and what’s just for show. Rawle uses this setting to poke fun at our obsession with fame, social media, and entertainment, while also showing how far people might go for comfort, attention, and approval. It reads like a mix of a reality show and a thriller — fun to follow, but also a little unsettling. By the end, it made me think about how much we perform for others in our own lives, even when no cameras are around. Image from Penguin Random House #life #lifethoughts #momblogger #journaling #journal #journals #BookReview #B...

Thank you NetGalley and Random House for this ARC.  I’m grateful for the opportunity to read this inspiring book shortly after its release and share my thoughts. Guided by Laura Lynne Jackson is a warm, deeply comforting, and spiritually optimistic book. Through a rich tapestry of real-life stories, Jackson shows how signs can appear in our lives, how creativity, gratitude, and openness help us tune in, and how this connection can guide us toward a more “illuminated life.” Her practical advice and heartfelt examples make it an uplifting read. For those grieving or seeking deeper meaning, Guided offers solace, inspiration, and a gentle reminder that we are not alone.  Image from NetGalley.com #life #lifethoughts #momblogger #journaling #journal #journals #RandomHouse #NetGalley #LauraLynneJackson #ARC #AdvanceReaderCopy #BookReview #Spirituality #Mediumship #GriefSupport #InspiredReading #TeamOfLight #IlluminatedLife #BookLovers #ReadersOfInstagram #UpliftingReads #BookCommuni...

Most people listen to respond, not to understand. We listen while forming our next sentence, searching for solutions, or drawing comparisons to our own experiences. We fill pauses with advice, reassurance, or stories that turn the focus back to us. It’s not ill-intentioned—it’s human. We want to help, to connect, to offer something useful. But when we listen only to fix or reply, we unintentionally silence what the other person really needs: to feel heard. True listening is one of the most powerful forms of love and respect. It tells the other person, “You matter. Your words are safe here.” When someone feels fully seen and understood, walls fall away. They begin to open up, reflect, and often find their own answers. Listening with presence doesn’t just strengthen relationships—it deepens empathy, reduces misunderstandings, and allows space for emotional healing, both for others and for yourself. This month’s theme of release invites you to let go of the need to fix or control the ...

There’s a quiet kind of exhaustion that comes from always being “on.” Our minds rarely get a rest anymore—scrolling, reading, learning, listening, thinking. Even the things meant to inspire us can leave us feeling full but not nourished. When every moment is filled with input, it becomes hard to hear ourselves think, much less feel at peace. Quieting the noise within isn’t just about silence; it’s about space. Space to breathe before responding. Space to notice what you feel without rushing to fix it. Space to let ideas and emotions gently settle, like snowflakes drifting to the ground. In both work and personal life, we face information overload —the constant inflow of data, decisions, and digital noise that demands our attention. At work, it might look like overflowing inboxes, back-to-back meetings, or endless task-switching. In our personal lives, it’s the news cycle, social media, notifications, and mental lists that never seem to end. When we take in more than our minds can...

As autumn settles in, we naturally start to spend more time indoors — but for many of us, our cars are still an extension of home. They carry us through early mornings, quick errands, and cozy weekend drives under changing trees. Before the cold weather arrives, this is the perfect time to give your car a gentle reset — a blend of practical care and comfort that helps you move through the season feeling grounded and ready. A Simple Refresh A clean car just feels better — and a few small steps now can make winter drives so much easier later. Air it out: Roll down the windows and let the fresh air move through and carry out the stuffiness of summer. Lighten the load: Remove only what doesn’t need to travel with you anymore. A few open surfaces can make even a small car feel more spacious. Wipe away the dust: A quick swipe of the dashboard or console helps your space feel cared for, not perfect. If time permits, vacuum seats and floors to...

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...

  As the days shorten and the air shifts with the first hints of autumn, September invites us into a season of abundance. The Harvest Moon, with its golden glow, has long been a symbol of gathering—both the literal harvest of fields and the personal harvest of our own lives. It is a reminder to pause and recognize the good that has been quietly growing around us, and its golden light encourages us to honor the fullness already here. A simple way to honor this season of abundance is by practicing gratitude. Gratitude is more than saying ‘thank you’ and moving on—when we practice it fully, we slow down, notice, and let appreciation sink in. It’s a way of seeing the world. It shifts us from a mindset of scarcity to one of fullness, reminding us that even in the most ordinary days, there is beauty waiting to be noticed. A Gratitude Practice This practice is to provide the space to recognize what’s already here. Think of it as a mindful harvest of your own life—collecting th...

A s the days grow shorter and the sunlight softens, it’s natural to feel the shift toward the darker months. But this transition is also an invitation—to soak up the outdoors while you still can, and to ready your home and routines for the months ahead. Try out some of the suggestions below.  You don’t have to do everything—or even anything—but make it a priority to step outside, feel the crisp air , and appreciate the sun while it lingers. And when you return inside, wrap yourself in a blanket or sip something warm as a reminder that each season brings its own kind of comfort. Step Outside and Savor the Season:  Before winter’s grip takes hold, spend as much time outside as possible. Take long walks through fallen leaves , linger on the porch with a warm drink, or simply sit in your garden and notice the subtle changes in light and color. Capture the season by snapping photos of your favorite spots for Instagram, or record a short video of your walk and share it on TikTok...

One takeaway from reading Joie by Ajiri Aki was the encouragement to bring more intention and delight into everyday moments—especially something as simple as lunch. Inspired by that, I invited a group of women from work to lunch. Each of them had always struck me as kind and friendly.  Though they didn’t all know each other, I thought it would be meaningful to bring them together. There were about eight of us at that first lunch, and it turned out to be a really special experience. Despite being younger and in different stages of life, they shared similar hopes and fears. The conversation was warm and easy, and it reminded me how much joy and connection can come from simply making the space.  We now meet the first Wednesday of each month. That experience encouraged me to begin taking lunch at least once a week. It started small, just one lunch, but I enjoyed it so much that I now take time most days to step away from work for 30 to 60 minutes. At first, I’d watch people I foll...

Women Living Deliciously by Florence Given is part memoir, part manifesto, encouraging us to drop the hustle for approval and instead embrace beauty, pleasure, intuition, and power on our own terms . The book isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence. It affirmed what I’m learning on my journey: that living fully doesn’t mean waiting for the “big” moments, but delighting in the details and giving ourselves permission to rewrite old scripts. It’s a celebration of reclaiming our joy and choosing to live with bold softness. My Takeaways I’m learning to value my own opinion of myself—to believe that it counts, even if no one else validates it. It’s easy to outsource our power—letting others decide what’s best or silencing our own intuition—but I’m choosing to come home to myself. I am not the noise in my mind. I am the one who hears it, and I get to choose how I respond. Joy lives in the everyday. If I wait for the weekend or retirement to rest and enjoy my life, I’ll miss ...

The other night, I had a quiet realization—and it surprised me.  I had planned a perfectly cozy evening: Pull out tomorrow’s dinner Treadmill Read a few pages of my nonfiction book Start a new knitting project End the night with fiction and my dog curled up beside me Sounds lovely, right? But as I moved through the evening, it felt…  tiring.  Not because I was doing hard things—but because I was  doing so many of them.  Each one was a “restful” activity, yet somehow, together, they started to feel like another to-do list. That’s when it hit me:   I was treating my slow-living hobbies like productivity tasks.    Instead of soaking in the moment, I was racing through “rest.” And I had turned something meant to restore me into something I had to check off. The Trap of Performing Peace If you’re anything like me—someone who craves balance and deeply values making the most of your time—it’s easy to unintentionally hustle your way through slow livi...