Lux Thinking Aloud My Virtual Friend 6:28 PM The Single Woman’s 30-Day Blogging Challenge Day 29: Who is your closest or most special friend that you've never met and what do they mean to you? How did you cross paths? Talk about how you “met” them: Facebook, Twitter, an online support group, etc. My Virtual Friend I have one good virtual friend whom I haven't met personally yet. We have a mutual friend, then we started texting regularly and he even gave me a Bible as a Christmas present. He was a seminarian then. Now he's a priest. We could talk about anything and everything under the sun. We argue and often agree to disagree. He gives me numerous advice about life and I'd give him my two cents. He asks me for medical advice too and he'll answer my spiritual inquiries. Our communication stopped when he got busy with priesthood and was assigned in a Catholic school. Still, whenever we get the chance to chat, it feels like the old times. It's been more than a decade since we started being friends. I'm glad I share this kind of friendship. A virtual friend whom I know is genuine compared to those I see face to face but are not 100% sincere.Amazing what technology can do, right?Bridging gaps, building friendships.Do you have a virtual friend you feel a genuine connection with?
Life Lessons 20 Things I Would Tell My High School Self 9:48 AM You may feel like it's the end, but it's only the beginning. The Single Woman’s 30-Day Blogging Challenge Day 18: If you could have a conversation with yourself in high school, what would you say? There are things I would like to tell my high school self. Don't we all wish we have a time machine so we can go back and redo or undo a few things? I bet if we could, most of us will go back to high school. That's when majority of our boo boos happened. It's also when we met great people who became our lifelong friends, when we couldn't care less, when we learned some of the best life lessons, and when some wonderful moments happened. 20 Things I Would Tell My High School Self 1. You've got brilliant ideas! Don't be afraid to speak up and share it to the world. I used to always hold back in sharing especially during a class. I know the answers while the rest of my classmates would stare back blankly when a teacher asks a question. Then I'd hate hate hate it when the teacher would reveal the answer because it's exactly what I was thinking. This did not happen just once, but all throughout my student life. 2. Time is important. Discipline begins now. 3. Don't cut your hair too short! It won't be as lustrous as it is now when it grows back. 4. Haters are confused admirers. Enjoy the attention but continue to work on improving yourself. 5. Watch T.V. less. 6. Learn to say "no" as early as now. 7. Careful who you trust. Not everyone who calls you friend are really your friends. 8. ALWAYS wear lotion. 9. Eat more veggies! You'll thank me later. 10. Sleep, sleep, sleep. 11. Don't take life too seriously. You're only young once. 12. Sweet Valley is nice, but read more John Grishams and Sidney Sheldons. You'll never have enough time to read. 13. Now is the best time to start tithing and investing. 14. Go take that risk! 15. Don't use that product. 16. Everything will make sense a little later. 17. Keep on dancing! 18. It will sometimes suck, but just hang in there. 19. You are the only one stopping you. 20. You may feel like it's the end, but it's only the beginning. High school is a beautiful prerequisite to the real world. It exposed us to different kinds of people, allowed us to experience different things, gave us our highs and our lows, gave us a preview of what life is going to be, provided us our first taste of hellos and goodbyes. My high school self had a blast. I know I could have done better, I could have made wiser decisions and I could have been more cautious. If I could go back, I'd tell my high school self all these 20 things. But maybe I would also just let myself be, and watch myself trip, fall, laugh and discover life the way I did. That's where the fun really was. Hey, did you find this post helpful or entertaining? Please go ahead and share. Share buttons on the left and at the bottom of the article. Big thanks! Subscribe to About Life And Love by Email
Books Movies And Series To Watch If You Love Romance Books 2:37 PM Ready for your next binge-watch? Here’s your ultimate guide to movies and TV series for book lovers, especially if you’re obsessed with romance novels. Hand-picked romance movies and series that bring your favorite literary tropes to life!TL;DR - Quick Overview: From Pride & Prejudice to Purple Hearts, this list for romance book lovers sorts movies and series by popular tropes and includes top picks on Netflix and Amazon Prime for your next screen session. Plus, must-see novel adaptations. Jump to a Section ▼ From Page to Screen: The Ultimate Romance Movies and TV Shows for Book LoversTurn your love for romance novels into your next favorite binge-watch. This guide has the best movies and series for book lovers, including must-see adaptations and a Netflix queue refresh, curated to feed that bookish heart. Movie Recommendations for Romance Book LoversMovies for the book girlies and all those who enjoy a good fluttery feeling from romance films. Marriage of Convenience Trope Fans Purple HeartsA struggling musician and a young Marine enter a marriage of convenience for benefits, only to find themselves unexpectedly falling in love.Why you'll love it: The slow-burn emotional arc mirrors those heartfelt romance novel journeys from fake to forever.Where to watch: NetflixLoving LeahA non-observant Jewish cardiologist enters a platonic marriage with his deceased Orthodox rabbi brother's widow to honor ancient tradition, but their arrangement blossoms into unexpected love as they bridge their different worlds.Why you'll love it: Cultural depth meets sweet romance as two people discover faith, family, and genuine connection through their marriage of convenience journey.Where to watch: Hallmark+, Tubi (free), Roku Channel (free), Amazon Prime Video, or Apple TV Historical Romance Pride & Prejudice (2005) Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy's legendary love story gets the cinematic treatment with breathtaking cinematography and unforgettable chemistry.Why you'll love it: Peak enemies-to-lovers tension with gorgeous period details.Where to watch: Amazon Prime VideoSign up for Amazon Prime and enjoy a free 30-day trial Lady Chatterley’s LoverA young woman trapped in a loveless marriage with her paralyzed husband discovers passionate love and sexual awakening with their estate's brooding gamekeeper.Why you'll love it: Forbidden class-crossing romance with intense chemistry, beautiful cinematography, and the ultimate story of breaking free from societal constraints for true love.Where to watch: Netflix Second Chance Romance Redeeming LoveBased on Francine Rivers' bestselling novel, this film explores whether love can truly heal the deepest wounds and offer redemption.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I highly recommend this! The movie is tastefully done, and the plot is so captivating that I still think about it sometimes. Plus, it's inspired by the story of Gomer in the Book of Hosea in the Bible. Why you'll love it: Emotional depth and the power of unconditional love make this a tear-jerker in the best way.Where to watch: Rent or buy it on Prime. The VowWhen a car accident erases a woman's memories of her marriage, her husband must win her heart all over again.Why you'll love it: Real-life inspiration and the ultimate test of true love.Where to watch: Netflix Romantic Suspense Safe HavenA mysterious woman with a dark past finds refuge in a small coastal town, but danger and love both find her.Why you'll love it: Nicholas Sparks delivers romance with genuine stakes and mystery.Where to watch: NetflixHowl's Moving CastleA young hat shop worker cursed by a witch into an elderly woman's body seeks refuge in a magical moving castle. There, she finds love with the vain but kind-hearted wizard Howl while helping him break his own curse.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I highly recommend this! One of the best anime films I've seen. Why you'll love it: Studio Ghibli's enchanting blend of romance, magic, and stunning animation creates a transformative love story about finding beauty within and the power of self-acceptance.Where to watch: HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video (rent/buy), Apple TV, or Hulu Forbidden RomanceThe Idea of YouA 40-year-old single mother begins an unexpected and intense romance with a 24-year-old member of the world's biggest boy band after a chance encounter at Coachella, navigating age differences, media scrutiny, and societal judgment.Why you'll love it: Anne Hathaway delivers a powerful performance in this age-gap romance that explores second chances, self-discovery, and the courage to love authentically despite what others think.Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video My FaultA BookTok and Wattpad Viral Sensation. When her mother remarries, Noah finds herself attracted to her new stepbrother in this romance that's all about forbidden attraction.Why you'll love it: Steamy tension and the thrill of loving someone you shouldn't.Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video (the Spanish version Culpa Mia is spicier, if that's what you prefer) The Kissing Booth Elle breaks her best friend's rule by falling for his older brother, leading to secret romance and friendship drama.Why you'll love it: Young adult forbidden love with plenty of heart and humor.Where to watch: NetflixThrough My Window (Part 1)A teen girl becomes entangled in a steamy and tumultuous romance with her mysterious, wealthy next-door neighbor despite their social differences.Why you'll love it: Neighborly secrets and intense attraction amp up the forbidden romance thrill with Spanish flair and undeniable chemistry.Where to watch: NetflixNobody Wants ThisA sex podcaster and an unconventional rabbi navigate an unlikely romance despite their vastly different worlds, families, and life philosophies.Why you'll love it: Kristen Bell and Adam Brody's electric chemistry plus witty dialogue make this opposites-attract rom-com both hilarious and heartwarming. Perfect for those looking for a modern, mature, realistic, and healthy love story.Where to watch: NetflixThe Secret World of ArriettyA tiny 14-year-old "Borrower" living secretly beneath the floorboards strikes up a forbidden friendship with a lonely human boy, risking her family's safety for connection and adventure.Why you'll love it: This gorgeous Studio Ghibli film offers a miniature world full of wonder, exploring themes of friendship, courage, and finding your place despite being different.Where to watch: HBO Max, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video (rent/buy), or Apple TVRomantasyYour Name (Kimi no Na wa)Two high school students, a city boy from Tokyo and a country girl from a small mountain town, mysteriously begin to swap bodies, forming a deep connection that transcends time and space as they race to avert a looming disaster.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I highly recommend this! I rarely scream when the movie ends, but I did with this one. Fingers crossed, there will be a part two or a live-action adaptation. Why you'll love it: The breathtaking animation, stunning visuals, and emotionally resonant story create a mind-bending supernatural romance that will stay with you long after the credits roll.Where to watch: Crunchyroll, Amazon Prime Video (rent/buy), Apple TV, or Google Play Small-Town Romance The Longest RideA young couple's romance intertwines with the decades-spanning love story of an elderly man they rescue, revealing how true love endures across generations.Why you'll love it: Dual timelines and Nicholas Sparks' signature emotional depth create a sweeping romance that celebrates lasting love through life's challenges.Where to watch: Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, or Apple TV Enemies to Lovers Leap YearWhen Anna's flight to Dublin is diverted, she must rely on a grumpy Irish innkeeper to help her reach her boyfriend for a leap year proposal.Why you'll love it: Banter, beautiful Irish scenery, and the classic enemies-to-lovers progression.Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video 10 Things I Hate About YouA modern retelling of Shakespeare's "Taming of the Shrew" set in high school with plenty of wit and attitude. This is a cult classic you should never miss.Why you'll love it: Sharp dialogue and the perfect enemies-to-lovers teen romance.Where to watch: Disney+ Just Like HeavenA workaholic doctor's spirit becomes trapped in her former apartment, where only the new tenant, a grieving landscape architect, can see and communicate with her as they help each other heal.Why you'll love it: Supernatural romance with Reese Witherspoon and Mark Ruffalo's undeniable chemistry, blending heartfelt emotion with the ultimate impossible love story that transcends life and death.Where to watch: Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, or Apple TV Friends to Lovers Love, RosieBest friends Rosie and Alex navigate life, love, and missed opportunities across decades.Why you'll love it: The ultimate "right person, wrong time" story that'll make you believe in destiny (and say "Finally!" in the end).Where to watch: Netflix 13 Going on 30 A 13-year-old girl wakes up in her 30-year-old body and realizes her childhood best friend might be her soulmate.Why you'll love it: Nostalgic, sweet, and the perfect friends-to-lovers fantasy.Where to watch: NetflixMade of HonorA commitment-phobic playboy realizes he's in love with his best friend just as she asks him to be her maid of honor at her wedding to another man.Why you'll love it: Classic friends-to-lovers panic with Patrick Dempsey's charm and the perfect "oh no, I'm too late" romantic comedy chaos.Where to watch: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, or Paramount+ Childhood Crush FlippedThe story of Juli and Bryce, told from both perspectives as they navigate middle school and changing feelings.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I highly recommend this! I'll never get tired of it. It's one of my comfort movies. Why you'll love it: Innocent, heartfelt, and beautifully captures the complexity of young love.Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video Fake Dating To All the Boys I've Loved BeforeWhen Lara Jean's secret love letters are mysteriously mailed to her crushes, she enters a fake relationship to save face.Why you'll love it: Adorable fake dating that becomes beautifully real.Where to watch: Netflix The Wedding DateA single woman hires a charming male escort to accompany her to her sister's wedding, but their fake relationship starts feeling surprisingly real.Why you'll love it: Fake dating with a twist. Plus Dermot Mulroney's swoon-worthy confidence and the perfect blend of humor and heart.Where to watch: Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, or Apple TVShe's Dating The GangsterA shy college student agrees to fake-date a campus heartthrob to make his ex jealous, but their pretend romance evolves into something beautifully real.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I highly recommend this! You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll giggle, you'll get blown away. It's more than just a teeny bopper movie. Why you'll love it: Filipino cinema's take on fake dating with emotional depth, cultural warmth, and a love story that spans decades.Where to watch: Netflix (in select regions), iWantTFC, or YouTube Movies TV Series Recommendations for Romance Novel LoversNo time for movies, but can binge-watch an entire season of a show? Yeah, I've been there, so no judgment. Here are some TV series to watch if you like romance novels. Marriage of Convenience SeriesMy Lady JaneIn an alternate Tudor England, Lady Jane Grey navigates political schemes and a fiery romance with her reluctant husband.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I highly recommend this! I was hooked from the beginning. Jane is a formidable force. With playful banter and exciting twists, this is an entertaining reimagining of Lady Jane Grey (the "Nine Days' Queen"). I wish they hadn't canceled it. Why you'll love it: Feisty banter and historical fantasy spark joy.Where to watch: Amazon Prime VideoDolunay (Full Moon)A cheerful chef and a wealthy, workaholic businessman are drawn together as she becomes his personal chef, sparking romance while they care for his orphaned nephew.It's cute, but if you're not familiar with dizi or Turkish dramas, be prepared. They tend to be long (usually 120-150 minutes each) and sometimes feature over-the-top plot twists that will make you want to pull your hair out or roll your eyes, which reminds me of some Mexican telenovelas I watched growing up. 😄 Still, they are cinematic, charming, and adorable, much like K-dramas. These two are my favorite Turkish couple on screen.Why you'll love it: Opposing personalities melt into sweet harmony and slow burn.Where to watch: Netflix (in select regions) or YouTube Historical Romance Series Miss Scarlet and the DukeVictorian London detective Eliza Scarlet solves crimes while navigating a complicated relationship with Inspector Wellington.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I highly recommend this! If you're a fan of fierce, feisty, independent female main characters (FMC), you'll love Eliza. And if you like grumpy, reluctant, yet protective book boyfriends, you'll enjoy William (the Duke). Why you'll love it: Murder mysteries with slow-building romantic tension (though it mainly centers on Eliza rather than the love story, it's still fun to watch them fight their feelings).Where to watch: PBS or enjoy it on Amazon Prime Video The Buccaneers American heiresses invade 1870s London society, seeking titles and love while challenging Victorian conventions and expectations.Why you'll love it: Lavish period drama with rebellious heroines, forbidden romances, and the perfect blend of historical elegance and modern sensibilities.Where to watch: Apple TV+ Bridgerton Season 2: The Viscount Who Loved MeAnthony Bridgerton is determined to marry for duty, not love, until he meets Kate Sharma.Julia Quinn is one of my favorite historical romance authors. I'm not surprised the movies are as phenomenal as the books.Why you'll love it: Intense forbidden attraction and family duty conflicts.Where to watch: NetflixOutlanderClaire Randall, a WWII nurse, touches ancient Scottish stones and finds herself in 1743, where she marries Jamie Fraser for protection.Why you'll love it: Epic love story spanning centuries with incredible character development.Where to watch: Starz Small-Town Romance Series Sullivan's CrossingBoston City's promising neurosurgeon, Maggie Sullivan, inherits her father's campground and finds love and healing in the small mountain community.Why you'll love it: Healing romance and beautiful natural settings.Where to watch: Netflix Enemies to Lovers Series Maxton Hall: The World Between UsA determined scholarship student and a privileged heir clash and ignite a forbidden romance amid secrets at an elite British prep school.Why you'll love it: Class divides and hidden depths make the forbidden feel electric with plenty of academic tension and steamy chemistry.Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video Love Is in the Air (Sen Çal Kapımı)After her scholarship is revoked, Eda enters a fake engagement with businessman Serkan, leading to unexpected real feelings and comedic drama.Why you'll love it: Turkish rom-com energy makes the fake feel fabulously fun.Where to watch: Hulu or YouTube Friends to Lovers Series Bridgerton Season 3: Romancing Mister BridgertonPenelope Featherington and Colin Bridgerton's friendship evolves into something deeper.Why you'll love it: Long-awaited friends-to-lovers story with beautiful character growth.Where to watch: Netflix Fake Dating Series Bridgerton Season 1: The Duke and IDaphne Bridgerton and the Duke of Hastings enter a fake courtship that becomes all too real.Why you'll love it: Diverse casting, perfect fake dating execution with incredible chemistry.Where to watch: Netflix Top 10 Movies and Series for Book Lovers on NetflixHere are the top 10 movies and series for book lovers to binge-watch on Netflix.TitleDescriptionBridgertonRegency romance with modern sensibilities and diverse casting.OutlanderTime-traveling love story spanning centuries and continents.Virgin RiverSmall-town healing romance with multiple storylines.To All the Boys I've Loved BeforeA teen fake dating story that becomes beautifully real.The Kissing BoothForbidden high school romance with friendship complications.Sweet MagnoliasThree Southern women navigate love, friendship, and second chances.YouDark psychological romance that's dangerously addictive.13 Going on 30Time-jump romance about childhood friends becoming soulmates.Set It UpSmart rom-com about assistants playing matchmaker.The Half of ItModern retelling of Cyrano with LGBTQ+ themes.Top 10 Movies and Series for Book Lovers on Amazon PrimeEnjoy these top 10 movies and series for book lovers on Amazon Prime: TitleDescriptionMy Lady JaneHistorical fantasy with shapeshifters and swoony romance.The Summer I Turned PrettyBeach house love triangles and coming-of-age drama.Pride & Prejudice (2005)The ultimate enemies-to-lovers period romance.My FaultSpanish forbidden romance with plenty of steam.Leap YearIrish enemies-to-lovers road trip romance.FlippedSweet middle school romance told from both perspectives.The ProposalBoss-assistant fake marriage with great chemistry.Love, RosieLifelong friends navigate missed opportunities and timing.Modern LoveAnthology series exploring different types of love.Red, White & Royal BlueEnemies-to-lovers romance between a President's son and a Prince.Movie Adaptations of All-Time Favorite Romantic BooksFrom pages to the big screen, these all-time favorite romantic book movie adaptations will leave you wanting to fall in love all over again. Pride & Prejudice (2005) - Jane Austen The Notebook - Nicholas Sparks Me Before You - Jojo Moyes The Fault in Our Stars - John Green A Walk to Remember - Nicholas Sparks Emma (2020) - Jane Austen Sense and Sensibility - Jane Austen The Princess Bride - William Goldman Outlander - Diana Gabaldon Redeeming Love - Francine Rivers Series Adaptations of All-Time Favorite Romantic BooksBooks that took the world by storm can now be streamed. Add these all-time favorite romantic book series adaptations to your watch list. Outlander - Diana Gabaldon series Bridgerton - Julia Quinn series Virgin River - Robyn Carr series Sweet Magnolias - Sherryl Woods series The Summer I Turned Pretty - Jenny Han trilogy Normal People - Sally Rooney Anne with an E - L.M. Montgomery Little Fires Everywhere - Celeste Ng Big Little Lies - Liane Moriarty You - Caroline Kepnes series In Summary: Movies and TV Series for Book LoversFrom steamy historical dramas to cozy small-town romances, there's a perfect screen adaptation waiting for every romanticist. Whether you're craving the comfort of familiar tropes or excited to discover new stories, these movies and series for book lovers offer the same emotional satisfaction as your favorite novels. So grab your remote, settle in with your favorite reading snacks, and let these stories sweep you away. Your TBR pile will understand. FAQs1. Are these recommendations suitable for all ages?Most selections range from teen-appropriate to mature adult content. Always check ratings and content warnings, especially for series like Lady Chatterley's Lover, which contains mature themes. 2. Which streaming platform has the most romance content for book lovers?Netflix currently leads with the most romance movies and series for book lovers, followed closely by Amazon Prime Video. Both platforms regularly add new romantic content and book adaptations. But check out also Hulu, Starz, Tubi, and Max for other options. 3. How do I know if a movie or series is based on a book?Look for "Based on the novel by..." in the opening credits, or check the show's description. Many adaptations prominently feature their literary origins in marketing materials.4. Does watching movies or series adaptations count for reading?Yes! When you watch a romance adaptation or a movie that perfectly captures your favorite trope, you're essentially experiencing storytelling in a different format. These movies for book girlies are an extension of your reading journey. Plus, let's be honest. Sometimes you need to see those swoon-worthy moments play out with actual humans and heart-stopping soundtracks. Happy watching, book lovers and series bingers! Your next great love story is just a click away.The header image is copyrighted by Internet Marketing Ad and may not be reused commercially. Message me if you'd like to commission or create something similar for a small fee.Do you have a favorite movie that's not on the list? Share your movie or series recommendations!
Life Lessons You Are A Story 4:00 AM Everyone is a story. Each vital to the world. You are a story. That person you sat beside on the bus or train, that little girl you saw sitting on her mom's lap at the park, that guy smoking a cigarette from the building across your office, or the homeless man you pass by every day near the subway, or the lady who got off the elevator as you're about to get in. All of them has a special story waiting to tell. They are stories for everyone to read. You are a story yourself. The world needs to hear your story more than you'll ever know. They need to know your joys and heartaches. They need to learn your lessons. People need to see your scars to know that their wounds will someday heal too. They need to know they're not alone in their journey because someone out there is exactly on the same page. Or has been through what they're going through. Make your story a beautiful one. One that even when you leave the world, those who have been privileged to get to know you will continue to tell with fondness and joy. Don't leave the world confused because they're not sure which part of your story is true and which is just a show. Don't leave the world worse than when you get here. Aspire to live in such a way that strangers would wonder if there are more like you, and inspire them to be like you to another stranger. Live in such a way that people will miss your absence, not rejoice over it. Live in such a way that if you are a book, people will not only give you a five star review, but will keep re-reading your story. That if someone asks them for a recommendation, they will recommend your story. Your story need not be known all over the world (although if you can, why not?). As long as those around you are inspired and blessed by it, you're good. Mother Teresa said, "Never worry about numbers. Help one person at a time, and always start with the person nearest you." Never underestimate your story. If it can change one person, it can change the world. If you like this blog post about life and love, please share the article using the social media buttons below or on the left. Thanks!