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5 Powerful Women Warriors In The Bible To Inspire You

1:48 PM

woman lying on her stomach reading the Bible

amazeballs creatureswoman inspiration
Woman Warrior #1: RuthRuth was a Moabite woman who, after the death of her husband, chose to remain with her mother-in-law, Naomi. She later married Boaz and became the great-grandmother of King David. What is most admirable about Ruth?

Loyalty. Ruth's commitment to her mother-in-law, Naomi, made her an admirable and respectable woman. It eventually paid the way to prosperity and her destiny. After her husband died, Ruth could have returned to her own family, but instead, she chose to stay with Naomi, even though it meant leaving her homeland and facing an uncertain future.

Faithfulness. Ruth's devotion to God and commitment to following His commandments are also noteworthy. She chose to leave her family, her culture, and her gods behind and embrace the faith of Naomi and the Israelites.

Hard work. Ruth's diligence and hard work made her stand out. It caught Boaz's attention and piqued his interest. She worked tirelessly in the fields, gleaning the leftover grains after the harvest, to provide for herself and Naomi.

Humility. Ruth's humility is evident in her interactions with Boaz, her future husband. She showed respect and deference to him, even though he was a wealthy landowner and she was a poor foreigner.

Boldness. Ruth's courage is evident in her willingness to approach Boaz at night and ask him to redeem her family's land and marry her, even though it is an unconventional and risky move.

Ruth's story is of faithfulness, loyalty, hard work, humility, and courage. Her unwavering commitment to God and her family inspires people of all ages and backgrounds. Ruth didn't intend to marry a wealthy man like Boaz after her husband died. But her excellent work ethic, pure intentions, and hard work brought her places that were impossible for women of her status during her time. Ruth inspires women, setting an example of what to do best while waiting for their Boaz to come. Ruth and Boaz's story sparks hope, showing a second shot at love is possible and still beautiful.Watch The Book of Ruth on Amazon Prime.

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Woman Warrior #2: EstherEsther is a Jewish queen in the Old Testament of the Bible. The Book of Esther is read by Jews during the festival of Purim, which celebrates the Jewish people's survival in the face of persecution. Esther is considered a heroine in Jewish tradition, and her story is one of courage, wisdom, and faith in God.What makes Esther a remarkable woman?

Courage. Esther's most admirable trait is her courage. She risked her life by approaching the Persian king without being summoned to plead for the lives of her people, the Jews, who were facing genocide.

Wisdom. Esther demonstrated wisdom and shrewdness in her approach to the king. She did not reveal her true identity or purpose right away, but instead, she invited the king and Haman, the man who had plotted against the Jews, to a series of banquets. Through these banquets, she gained the king's favor and was able to plead her case.

Faith. Esther's faith in God is also noteworthy. She called on her people to fast and pray for three days before she approached the king, and she asked them to continue to pray for her as she went before him.

Compassion. Esther's heart for her people is evident in her willingness to risk her life to save them. She did not have to take action, as she was safe in the palace and not directly affected by the decree to kill the Jews, but she chose to act for the sake of her people.

Leadership - Esther's leadership is evident in how she mobilized her people to fast and pray, took charge of the situation, and made the difficult decision to approach the king.

Esther's willingness to sacrifice her life to save her people is truly admirable. Trembling in fear, she did what she had to do and set her people free, making her one of the many influential women warriors in the Bible that still inspires today. Esther is a beacon of hope for those often overcome with fear. She shows that it can be done. You just have to do it, afraid.Watch The Book of Esther on Amazon Prime.

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Woman Warrior #3: Mother MaryWhen you think of powerful women in the Bible, you may not automatically count the mother of Christ, Mary. She was always on the sideline, supporting her Son in His ministry. She may be a gentle force, but she's still a force to be reckoned with. She played a significant role in his life and made history with her simple Yes to God's will. What are Mary's traits that make her a historical female?

Faith. Mary's faith is her most admirable trait. She believed the angel's message that she would give birth to the Messiah, even though it seemed impossible, and she accepted God's will for her life without hesitation.

Humility. Mary's humility is evident in her response to the angel's message. Instead of boasting or seeking glory, she acknowledged her lowly position and praised God for choosing her.

Obedience. Mary obeying God's plan for her life is also noteworthy. She willingly submitted to God's will, even though it meant enduring ridicule and persecution from her community.

Altruism. Mary had her own needs and struggles as a young pregnant woman. But she walked miles and served her cousin Elizabeth when she found out she was also carrying a child, putting her needs over her convenience.

Perseverance. Mary's determination through difficult times is admirable. From giving birth in a lowly manger to stepping back and letting her Son shine to witnessing his crucifixion and death, she remained faithful and steadfast in her belief that God's plan would be fulfilled.

Love. Mary's love for her Son Jesus is evident in her actions throughout the Bible. She cared for, nurtured, and supported him throughout his life and ministry, even standing at the foot of the cross as he died.

God has given us the free will to either love and serve Him or not. Mary could have refused the responsibility God asked of her, especially since she was only a 14-year-old virgin with a promising future, being engaged to a decent man. But her devotion to God and her Son Jesus Christ made her one of the most remarkable women in history and an inspiration to everyone.Watch Mary of Nazareth on Amazon Prime.

Woman Warrior #3: Mary MagdaleneMary Magdalene is mentioned in all four Gospels and was present at the crucifixion. She's among the first to see the empty tomb and the resurrected Jesus. She is often called the "apostle to the apostles" because she was the first to announce the good news of the resurrection to the disciples. Over time, Mary Magdalene has become an important figure in the Christian tradition, and she is often depicted in art and literature as a symbol of devotion, love, and faith. What makes Mary Magdalene a notable figure in the Bible?

Faith. Mary Magdalene was one of Jesus' most devoted followers, and she remained loyal to him even in the face of persecution and death.

Courage. Mary Magdalene demonstrated courage by remaining faithful to Jesus, even when it was dangerous to do so. She was present at the crucifixion, a brutal and terrifying spectacle, yet she did not abandon Jesus. She also dared to visit the tomb despite the danger of being caught by the authorities.

Love. Mary Magdalene's love for Jesus is evident in her actions throughout the Bible. She cared for him, supported him, and was one of his closest companions. Her love for Jesus was so great that she risked her own safety to be near and care for him.

Witness. Mary Magdalene is also admired for being a witness to the resurrection of Jesus. She was the first to see the risen Christ and was crucial in spreading the news of his resurrection to others.

Transformation. Mary Magdalene's story is also one of transformation. According to the Bible, seven demons possessed her before she met Jesus, but he healed and transformed her life. She went from being troubled and tormented to being a faithful and devoted follower of Jesus.

Mary Magdalene is a role model for those who seek to follow Jesus with devotion and dedication. She proves it's never too late to change and be better. And that your past does not define your future.Watch Mary Magdalene on Amazon Prime.
Woman Warrior #4: Bithiah Bithiah is referred to as "the daughter of Pharaoh" and is best known for rescuing the infant Moses from the Nile River. Despite being raised as an Egyptian prince, Moses grew up to become a leader of the Hebrew people and is considered one of the most influential figures in Jewish and Christian history. Bithiah's act of saving Moses is seen as an act of compassion, courage, and redemption, and she is admired for her role in shaping the destiny of one of the most outstanding leaders of all time.Other extraordinary values Bithiah showed:

Compassion. Bithiah showed compassion when she rescued the infant Moses from the Nile River. She could have ignored his cries or even ordered his death, but instead, she chose to save him.

Courage. Bithiah demonstrated courage by defying her father's orders to kill all Hebrew male babies. She risked her safety to save Moses and raise him as her own.

Open-mindedness. Bithiah was open-minded enough to recognize the value of Moses' Hebrew heritage, even though he had been raised as an Egyptian. She encouraged him to explore his roots and learn about his people's history and traditions.

Influence. Bithiah's impact on Moses was significant. She provided him with a privileged upbringing, education, and exposure to Egyptian culture, which would later enable him to be an effective leader of his people.

Redemption. Bithiah's act of saving Moses can be seen as a symbol of redemption. She took a helpless baby who would have been destined for death and gave him a new life, setting him on a path to becoming one of the most outstanding leaders in history.

Bithiah is an empowering figure in the Bible for her selfless act of rescuing and raising Moses, which profoundly impacted his life and the history of his people. Indeed a woman warrior when you see one.Watch Exodus: Gods and Kings on Amazon Prime.
Woman Warrior #5: Hannah Hannah's most well-known story involves her fervent prayer for a child. She was unable to conceive, and this caused her great distress. One year, when she and her husband went to the tabernacle to make a sacrifice, Hannah prayed intensely to God for a child, promising to dedicate him to God's service if her prayer was answered. God heard her prayer, and she became pregnant and gave birth to Samuel, who would grow up to become a great prophet and leader of Israel. Things you'll admire about Hannah in the Bible:

Faith. Hannah's faith in God is perhaps her most admirable trait. She prayed fervently for a child, and when her prayer was answered, she dedicated her Son Samuel to God's service.

Perseverance. Hannah's persistence is also noteworthy. She endured years of barrenness and the ridicule of her husband's other wife, yet she did not lose faith in God or give up on her dream of having a child.

Selflessness. Hannah's selflessness is evident in her decision to dedicate her Son Samuel to God's service. She recognized that he was a gift from God, and she was willing to give him up for the greater good.

Humility. Hannah's modesty is also admirable. When she prayed for a child, she promised to dedicate him to God's service if her prayer was answered. When God responded to her prayer, she kept her promise and humbly offered Samuel to God.

Gratitude. Finally, Hannah's appreciation is evident in her prayer of thanksgiving after Samuel's birth. She recognized that God had answered her prayer and blessed her with a child, and she was grateful for this blessing.

Hannah is a role model for those who seek to live a life of faith and love for God.
She's proof that the waiting may be challenging, patience may be bitter, but the fruits are sweet.

Read Hannah: The Mother Who Prayed.

Wikimedia

Women Warriors in the Bible

The Bible contains our Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth. And it is rich with awe-inspiring stories and exemplary women to learn from and admire - no matter your religion.

Because these strong women in the Bible broke through the invisible ceiling that limits them otherwise.

These female Bible heroes pushed through and made a name for themselves, leaving a dent with the quiet force they possess.

Who's your favorite woman warrior in the Bible?

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Books

The Stolen Moments Trilogy Book Review

4:16 PM

I read The Stolen Moments trilogy over the weekend, and Emilia and Carter are now living in my head rent-free. The Stolen Moments book series by Catharina Maura is an unputdownable, thrilling, and heartwarming tale of enemies to lovers. I didn't know I could be a fan of the enemies-to-lovers trope, but here we are! Here's my The Stolen Moments Trilogy Book Review (while I'm still drunk in love with this love story).
The Stolen Moments TrilogyBook 1: Stolen Moments

Book 2: Illicit Promises

Book 3: The Ruins of Us

The Stolen Moments Trilogy Book Rating

Emotions (Made me laugh, cry, angry, delighted): ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Storytelling (Got me hooked): ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Readability (Easy to read): ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Plot (Will they, will they not? How are they going to survive the odds?): ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Stolen Moments Trilogy Book Review

Stolen Moments was a slightly light read as Emilia and Carter were still in high school.

The Illicit Promises was set in their college days, and The Ruins of Us follows their story when they both have their careers.

You can feel the intense chemistry between Emilia and Carter from the get-go. You'll love their witty banter and feel the tension between them.

It was hate at first sight for these two. The crazy pranks they pull on each other become a norm for their small town, and everyone seems to be waiting for what the other comes up with.

The story progresses as the tension between them grows, as does the seriousness of the mess they're stuck in.

Emilia and Carter know that they can never cross that line and get together because Carter is Emilia's best friend's brother. And there's more to that story than meets the eye (you've got to read it!).

You'll laugh, cry, and fight with them. And you'll continue to cheer them on until the end.

Catharina Maura did an incredible job portraying Emilia and Carter's chemistry. Their banter is so witty and fun that I felt I was right there with them as they navigated their feelings for each other.

I also loved how Maura explored the idea of a forbidden romance between two people who are technically family.

The drama and passion between them were just so palpable and exciting.

The book series is full of ups and downs that kept me hooked from start to finish.

The characters are likable, and it's easy to sympathize with Carter and Emilia's struggles to stay apart and their mutual attraction that seems to keep drawing them back together.

The plot was gripping, and the romance was beautiful.

Oh, what these two will not do for each other. Their love will break your heart, give you hope, and bring you to the highest of highs and lowest of lows.

If you're in the mood for an enemies-to-lovers story, this is definitely the series for you! Actually, even if this is not your genre, give it a try.

I'm not an enemies-to-lovers fan, but Emilia and Carter made me a convert.

This post contains affiliate links, so we'd get a commission if you purchase through the links at no additional cost to you.

Have you read The Stolen Moments or any Catharina Maura books yet? What did you think?

Life Lessons

6 Empowering Movies & Shows Every Woman Should Watch

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7 Empowering Movies & Shows Every Woman Should Watch

Want to celebrate International Women's Day? Or maybe you just need the inspiration to help you through a tough day. Then you should check these six empowering movies and shows every woman should watch to feel inspired and get her groove back.

Hidden Figures (2016)

Erin Brockovich (2000)

Mulan (1998)

Miss Scarlet & the Duke (2020)

The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (2017)

Funny Woman (2023)

Hidden Figures (2016)Hidden Figures tells the story of a team of female African American mathematicians who played a vital role in the early years of the NASA United States space program. Each faced challenges in their department, dealt with condescending superiors and coworkers, worked hard to break the system and change the rules, and proved how they were better than society's perception.It's hard enough to be a woman in a male-dominated environment in the 60s, much more for women of color. But these empowering women didn't surrender, so their names went down in history.Lessons I learned from Hidden Figures

Persistence pays.

The team is as good as their mentor.

If opportunity doesn't knock, build a door.

Don't settle for a dead end when you can make a detour.

Advocate for and support other women.

Believe in your abilities even when others don't.

Erin Brockovich (2000)Based on the true story of a single mother who becomes a legal assistant and helps to win a landmark case against a major corporation, this film inspires every woman struggling. You may call it the desperation of a single mom who wants to feed her kids that got Erin Brocovich's foot inside the door. But her wit, heart to help the victims, and grit made her the millionaire she is today. Lessons I learned from Erin Brockovich

Be unapologetically you.

Follow your instincts.

Use what you have because what you have is enough.

The goodness you give will come back to you a hundredfold.

Behind every woman's success is herself - and an understanding partner.

Look at everything as an opportunity; to network, learn, and move forward.

Let the people in your life know how much they mean to you before it's too late.

Mulan (1998) This animated film tells the story of a young woman who disguises herself as a man to take her father's place in the army and save China from invaders. Following tradition and family rules is difficult when your heart tells you otherwise. Mulan was only 16 when she left to join the army. You can only imagine her fear, knowing what lies ahead. She could get persecuted by her own people if they found out who - or what - she was and could die in the battle. But that did not deter her from protecting her father and her family.
Lessons I learned from Mulan

Work smarter, not harder.

Do it afraid.

It's okay even if you don't feel like you belong. You are meant to create your own path.

Faith it til you make it.

Don't let your gender, age, or present situation define your destiny.

Miss Scarlet and the Duke (2020)This series is about Eliza Scarlet, a female detective who wants to keep her father's legacy alive and follow her passion for solving crimes at a time when women who spoke up or had their own careers were still taboo.
But, because of her limited resources and polite society's rules, she has to work double, resort to unconventional and sometimes unlawful methods, and seek her childhood friend Detective William Wellington's help to keep her business afloat and help victims find justice.
You'll love Eliza's mischief and wit, her love-hate banter with William, the thrill of her next case and career move, or where their complex friendship will lead them.

Lessons I learned from Miss Scarlet and the Duke

Have gumption even in the face of those who don't believe in you.
Don't sacrifice your happiness and passion for following society's standards.
Things will not always go as planned...so always have a Plan B.
Be humble enough to ask for help.
It pays to be observant and patient.
If the door closes, climb through the window. (Literally is the case for Eliza in the show)

The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (2017)

Miriam "Midge" Maisel was accidentally discovered in a comedy bar after her husband left her. A female standup comic was unheard of in the 50s. But she gets sexist comments and unfair treatment because she's not only pretty but also funnier and wittier than the men in the industry. But, of course, that doesn't stop Midge from being the marvelous force that she is.

Lessons I learned from The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel

Don't dim your light for others to shine.
Embrace who you are and use your strength to your advantage.
Don't run after someone who doesn't see your value.
Keep the people who believe in you.
Know when to prioritize yourself.
Be open to change.
Break the mold, even when your own family doesn't support you.

Funny Woman (2023)

Another series about a woman breaking the mold, Funny Woman, is based on Nick Horby's Funny Girl book It is about Barbara Parker, a girl from Blackpool who's got her future lined up for her, a beauty queen working in her father's factory, and a fiance who adores her.

But that's not what she wants. Instead, she wants to build a career doing comedy. Fighting sexism and finding her own voice, Funny Woman is a delight to watch.

Lessons I learned from Funny Woman

Don't settle for the good life when you can have a great one.
Don't let rejection discourage you from moving forward.
Be tenacious with your dreams.

What empowering movies and shows about remarkable women who dare make a difference do you watch to inspire you?

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Listicle

7 Advantages Of Buying Cheap Everyday Products

6:13 PM

7 Advantages Of Buying Cheap Everyday Products

cheaper productspriced as so for various reasons

quality matters
market competition
brand pricing strategy
aggressive sales
promotions

The point is that just because a product is priced cheaply doesn't necessarily mean it's less valuable than a more expensively priced item.
On the contrary, buying cheap everyday products over their expensive counterparts has advantages.

Advantage #1 - You spend less money

The bottom line is if you buy cheaper products, you'll ultimately spend less money shopping. And this can be a massive benefit for people on a budget because it creates a trickle effect.

Advantage #2 - You save more money

If you spend less, then you can save more! And not only does a nice amount of savings give you peace of mind and security, but it could also be used to make a larger purchase down the road, such as buying a car or your dream home.

Plus, although purchasing cheaper everyday products might not seem like it will allow you to save considerable funds immediately, every penny counts. So a small amount can add up in the long run.

Advantage #3 - You can spend on other things

Another considerable advantage of spending less on everyday purchases is that you'll free up money for other things you want but cannot currently afford. Things like more clothes or a new phone upgrade.
Even something less practical, like a much-needed spa day, could suddenly be within reach if you cut down on the amount you spend on your regular shopping.

Smiling woman putting a box in a shopping cart

Advantage #4 - You can shop more frequently

Have you ever spent too much on your last store run that you can't afford to go next time you need to make more purchases? You don't have to scrimp and save, frantically trying to get that last toothpaste out of the tube.

Not if you choose less expensive options when shopping. Because it will allow you to have enough money put back to go shopping whenever you need, rather than waiting until you can recoup the extra money you spent last time.

Advantage #5 - It will improve your money management skills

Practice makes perfect in life and money management. So, you're flexing your money management muscles by consciously finding cheaper alternatives to your everyday products.

The more you do this, the easier budgeting will be for you. In addition, this will help you see the benefits of budgeting in other aspects outside of everyday shopping.

Advantage #6 - It will help you become less obsessed with fancy brands

One of the many advantages of spending less on everyday shopping is that you'll pass on signature products more often to purchase the cheaper options.

However, you'll realize that a brand name doesn't mean everything.

This is a big deal because people are putting more importance on brands, especially in this influencer marketing era. In most cases, a brand name increases the price of an otherwise average item.

You'd be surprised at how many cheap products can compete with expensive ones qualitywise.

Advantage #7 - It will reduce and eradicate your debt

Your shopping habits might have contributed to your credit card debt. Therefore, spending less on shopping can also help undo the damage.

Over time, the extra money you're getting to keep by choosing cheaper options at the store will chip away at your debts. Don't underestimate the effect of small changes!

Pros of Buying Cheap Everyday Products

It seems like a minor adjustment, but choosing cheaper options at the store can positively change your life and financial situation!

Remember, you don't have to replace all your every products to see a difference. If you discover that a cheaply priced product is poorly made after testing, you no longer have to repurchase it.

These are only a few advantages of a more mindful purchasing habit, but hopefully, they convinced you to give shopping on the cheap a try.

Books

2022 Reading Challenge With Bookstagram Questions

4:39 PM

grinning woman carrying a stack of books

short review
First book of the year:

Lost Wife's Tale by Marion McGilvary

Last read of the year:

Reminders of Him Colleen Hoover

Favorite book characters:

Lady Johanna in Saving Grace by Julie Garwood
Christina Bennet in Lion's Lady by Julie Garwood
Jade in Guardian Angel
Spenser in Bad Business by Robert B Parker
Ava Knight in Tempt Me, Your Grace by Tamara Gill
Ravenna Caulfield in I Adored a Lord by Katharine Ashe
Campbell Barker in You Dropped a Blonde on Me by Dakota Cassidy
Jason Curtis in Nothing Lasts Forever by Sidney Sheldon

Favorite author/s?

Julia Quinn
Robert Fulghum
Robert B. Parker

Genres you read this year:

Romance

Young Adult
Regency Drama

Fantasy Fiction
Crime Mystery Detective Thriller
Memoir
Self-help
Christian Literature

Favorite genre so far:

Regency Drama Romance
Crime Mystery Detective Thriller

Favorite romance trope:

Different Worlds / Backgrounds

Books that you finish in one day:

The Quickie by James Patterson
Reminders of Him by Colleen Hoover
Nothing Lasts Forever by Sidney Sheldon

Unputdownable books:

The Quickie by James Patterson
Reminders of Him by Colleen Hoover
Nothing Lasts Forever by Sidney Sheldon
Glass Sword by Victoria Aveyard

Books that made you cry:

King's Cage by Victoria Aveyard
Reminders of Him by Colleen Hoover

Books that made you laugh:

Bad Business by Robert B Parker
All I Really Need To Know I Learned in Kindergarten by Robert Fulghum

Books that upset you:

The Quickie by James Patterson
Nothing Lasts Forever by Sidney Sheldon
King's Cage by Victoria Aveyard
War Storm by Victoria Aveyard

Book you think has a frustrating plot or ending:

The Blue Bistro by Elin Hilderbrand
Eternity by Jude Deveraux
The Gift by Julie Garwood

Books with covers you love:

Book series you read:

The Red Queen Series (complete)
Hunger Games (complete)
Crown's Spies Series (books 1-3 only)

Books with steamy scenes:

All Julie Garwood books
All Julia Quinn books
If You Give a Girl a Viscount by Kieran Kramer

Books that made you want to fall in love again for the first time:

A Night Like This by Julia Quinn
The Girl with a Make-Believe Husband by Julia Quinn
Saving Grace by Julie Garwood

The most remarkable book:

Reminders of Him by Colleen Hoover
Nothing Lasts Forever by Sidney Sheldon

Easiest read:

Bad Business by Robert B Parker

Novel that took you a long time to finish:

Unbecoming by Jenny Downham

The longest time it took you to finish a book:

2 weeks

An author whose work you want to read more of:

Robert B Parker
Colleen Hoover
Julia Quinn
Kate White

Cheapest book you bought:

Robert B Parker ($0.63 second-hand bookstore)

Books that disappointed you:

War Storm (Victoria Aveyard)
The Blue Bistro (Elin Hildenbrand)

Books that you will recommend:

Bad Business by Robert B Parker
The Girl with a Make-Believe Husband by Julia Quinn
Nothing Lasts Forever by Sidney Sheldon

Books that you are less likely to recommend:

Eternity (Jude Deveraux)

Books that made you want to reach out to the author:Lost Wife's Tale

Books that you wish to have an epilogue or sequel:Lost Wife's Tale

Book character you want to swap lives with for a day:

Lady Johanna (Saving Grace)
Princess Christina (The Lion's Lady)

Book character you hated:Lorna on Foursome by Jane Fallon

Book character you wish you were friends with:

Paige Turner (Nothing Lasts Forever)
Ravenna Caulfield (I Adored a Lord)
Princess Christina (The Lion's Lady)
Jade (Guardian Angel)

Book boyfriend/husband:

Ledger Ward (Reminders of Him)
Daniel Smythe-Smith (A Night Like This)
Major Edward Rokesby (The Girl with a Make-Believe Husband)
Laird Gabriel McBain (Saving Grace)
Campbell Barker (You Dropped a Blonde on Me)

Book setting you wish you could see in real life:

Julie Garwood's in the Scottish Highlands
The Blue Bistro
The Christmas Village in How the Grump Saved Christmas (Claire Kingsley)

What book color do you have the most of?

Shades of Blue

Books you wish will be made into a movie or series:

Julie Garwood's and Julia Quinn's
Appointment with Death by Agatha Christie

How do you rate your books?I base the rating on entertainment or emotions, storytelling, readability, and plot.
Emotions. I laughed, cried, got confused, got upset and frustrated, got scared, got angry, and got giddy. I felt all the emotions the author wanted me to feel. Or if it made me feel better after closing the book.
Storytelling. I like stories that are easy to read. Or storytelling style makes me feel like I'm talking to someone sharing a fascinating story that I can't wait to hear the rest of it.
Readability. Is reading it like pulling teeth, or do I find myself breezing through the pages?
Plot. What happened to the story? Is there character development? Did it surprise me or keep me guessing? Did the whole point of the story make sense? Did I learn something from it or at least left thankful I picked up the book?

All the Books on My 2022 Reading Challenge
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

All I Really Need To Know I Learned in Kindergarten
Appointment with Death
Saving Grace
Slow Burn
The Bride
Bad Business
Lethally Blonde
Guardian Angel
The Lion's Lady
The Glass Sword
Heartbreaker
The Quickie
Rattled!
Heaven Changes Everything
The Secret
A Night Like This
Nothing Lasts Forever
Catching Fire
The Girl with a Made-Believe Husband
How the Grump Saved Christmas

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Foursome
Shoe Addicts Anonymous
The Wedding
The Debutant Divorcee
Anna and the French Kiss
You Dropped a Blonde on Me
Killjoy
I Adored a Lord
Ali's Pretty Little Lies
Mockingjay
Tempt Me Your Grace

⭐⭐⭐

A Lost Wife's Tale
If You Give a Girl a Viscount
War Storm
Honor's Splendor
Unbecoming

⭐-⭐⭐

Mr. & Miss Anonymous
The Blue Bistro
The Gift
Eternity

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This post contains affiliate links, so I'd get a commission if you purchase through my links at no additional cost to you. This helps me maintain my site. Thanks in advance!

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Lux Thinking Aloud

The Word I Choose For 2023: No

5:59 PM

What word are you choosing for 2023? I started my Word for the Year instead of New Year's Resolution years ago, and this year is no different. My word for 2023 is only a two-letter, monosyllabic one, but it's powerful. So powerful that even though it denotes negativity, you are encouraged to say it more often so you can live happy and healthy. The word I choose for 2023 is No.

My Word for 2023: No

What is Saying No?

Saying no is more than just refusing, declining an invitation, or disagreeing.

Saying no is an art. It takes gumption to say no, especially to people you don't want to disappoint.

Saying no shows how much you believe in what you stand for, regardless of how persuading or discouraging eternal forces are. (Remember the War on Drugs slogan, 'Just Say No'?).

Saying no is an expression of self-love and self-respect. It's about being unapologetically you.

Saying no means protecting yourself from people and things that can harm or distract you from your goals.

Saying no is okay. It is healthy.

And saying no is important if you want to improve your life.

This 2023, I choose to say No more often.

Because I want more sh** done.

(That's my phrase for 2023, by the way. "Get it done.")

How often do you say no? To other people and, most of all, to yourself?

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Why No is my word for 2023

I choose to say No more this year, so I can say yes to better things.

No to rehashing traumatic experiences in my head. Yes to acceptance, contentment, and peace.

No to overthinking and what-ifs. Yes to embracing the present and all its beauty and ugly.

No to believing and giving the time of day to the lies of the enemy. Yes to loving who I am and thanking God for making me this way.

No to growing and nourishing the seed of doubt that past experiences and toxic people planted in me. Yes to seeing and treating myself with kindness and compassion.

And No to little everyday things that impact my life significantly.

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Everyday things I'm saying No to

No to buying and eating cakes for no reason.

I'm reserving that for special occasions now.
No to One more chapter and One more episode.

Oh, the lies we tell ourselves! I'm tired of waking up to dull-looking skin and breakouts because of lack of sleep.

Of my growing eye bags and sluggishness the following day.

Of rereading and redoing my work multiple times because my brain's not functioning well.
No to procrastination.

This 2023, I'm saying no to putting off to tomorrow what I can finish or at least start on today.

The main culprit for my procrastination is mindless browsing on my phone.

I put off doing my chores, stretching and strengthening my back, and working on a project. And would you believe it, I even procrastinate on ordering online.

So my floor gets dirtier than I would admit. My laundry piles up. I feel weaker, and my lower back hurts.

So I'm saying enough of that this 2023.

Tenor
No to baseless worries.

Even the Bible reminds us not to worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own (Matthew 6:34).

But more often than necessary, I worry. Anxiety has been a part of my day, and when things are going right, my brain automatically finds something to worry about.

Or worries that there's nothing to worry about. 🤷

It could be a result of growing up in the environment I was in. Or talking to people who are more anxious than I am.

But I'm saying No to that more often and with more conviction this year.

And remind me to focus on what is true, noble, righteous, pure, lovable, or admirable, or on something praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8).
No to another year of hiatus on my blog.

My blog is my baby. It's one of the few things I can call my own. And I have neglected this baby for a while now.

I've not been deliberate in writing more often. In encouraging my readers, which I claimed to be the purpose and reason for this blog.

In reaching out and updating my subscribers and sending Soul Food that I promised. So I'll be more active on my blog again.

I'll write more often (not as often as when I started - daily or weekly. Gosh, where is that girl with so much time in her hand now?).

I'd be a more responsible and doting mother to this love child of a blog.

Effects of Not Saying No

I know the results of not saying No all too well.

My mental and physical health suffers. My relationships suffer. My work quality suffers.

I burn out when I don't say No to clients' demands.

I get lethargic when I don't say no to another episode of Outlander or Miss Scarlet and the Duke.

I go through the day like a zombie desperate for brains when I can't say no to Miss Julia Quinn, Julie Garwood, or Colleen Hoover's stories.

Tenor

In Summary: No for 2023

This year, more than saying no to working myself like a slave one moment and procrastinating the next, I'm saying no to my bad habits.

To the lies in my head. To activities that don't help me grow, make more money, and fill my heart with joy.

My word for 2023 is No because I want to say yes to more substantial, better possibilities.

I'm choosing the word No because I want to say Yes to my health, my peace, and seeing things accomplished.

Have you chosen a word for the year?

What things are you saying No to this 2023?

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Lux Thinking Aloud

My 2022 Wrapped

5:02 PM

My 2022 Wrapped
I turned 40.Though I still feel like I'm still 21. I think I'll forever be in my heart. The only indications that I've aged are that I'm starting to see lines near my eyes, I gain weight faster and find that I can't lose them as quickly as I used to, and I just don't give a damn anymore.I'm more comfortable with my choices, not having to think if this is what society would approve of or what people would say.I spent my birthday and Christmas by myself. Peacefully, contentedly, joyfully.

I read the most books in my life in one year.Last year, I gave myself the Read One Book or Series in One Month Challenge. However, I found that after reading one book, I'm itching for the next month to start so I can begin reading again. So this year, I didn't give myself a limit.Result: I finished reading 45 books this 2022.

We Heart ItNewfound obsessionWe always keep discovering new things. I've found that this year, I can be into something I used to ignore. For example:

garlic bread

the period drama, both in books and series

Human Nature Marine Caviar HydroMiracle

Taylor Swift

I failed in my cooking challenge.Just like my reading challenge, I gave myself a cooking challenge. It's to make one dish I haven't made before every month. I think I only got to March. I still cook, but they're the same dishes like pasta arrabbiata (already bottled and ready to add), pasta basil, and basically heating up meals I order.

GiphyI wrote more than 3 million words this 2022.I stressed myself out by getting more projects than usual. I ended up not taking a day off for three months, not going out (which is not an issue for introverts like me), and watching days go by like a blur. I'm glad that's over now.Not surprising that Grammarly counted more than 3 million words I checked on their tool.I look forward to a more productive but less anxiety-driven year this 2023.

GifimageI went on a solo trip.Thanks to my husband's insistence, I booked a weekend getaway on the mountain, read a book (period drama, of course), ate organic food, and reveled in that soothing Pinoy hilot massage. It was so relaxing and pleasing that I had to extend it another night.

SelfMy 2022 in SummaryMy 2022 can be wrapped up in four things:

Working

Reading

Napping

Eating

But for everything that happened, I can describe my feelings in one word: Thankful.

Thankful for better health.

Thankful for more clients and projects.

Thankful for my husband.

Thankful for an imperfect yet blessed life.

I'm thankful to not have any huge challenges this year - except for losing some of our dogs which was heartbreaking. This 2022...There were significant events in our family. I pushed myself too far with work.Rebounded in my health.And I know I still need to get better at blogging. 2023 will also have its own set of challenges, triumphs, and breakthroughs. And I'm ready.How's your 2022?
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