Life Lessons How To Face 2024 Like A Champ With 3 Simple Questions 12:34 PM How To Face 2024 Like A Champ With 3 Simple Questions Spoiler alert: You are already a champion. How else are you still standing today? 2023 wasn’t an easy, friendly year for me either. So, how do we make this year better? I’ve got this idea from Bo Sanchez, one of my favorite motivational authors. Here’s how to face 2024 like a champ with three simple questions.3 Questions to Help You Face 2024 Like a ChampWhat worked? What didn’t? What will you do differently tomorrow?1. What worked?Did you lose weight and feel healthier after you tried a new diet or fitness plan? Do you feel more confident now after trying that workout? Or you started journaling and are now more organized in managing your day. Kudos to you and your hard work! Whatever worked, keep doing it.2. What didn’t work?Different things work for different people. While some readers are really good at planning their reading, I’m a mood reader. My goal to cook a new recipe every month failed. If you tried something that didn't work out, it’s time to rethink strategies and find another way. 3. What will you do differently tomorrow?Tomorrow’s a blank canvas. What small, exciting change will paint your day masterpiece? It could be anything, from trying a new route for your morning walk to finally tackling that creative project. Plan your year better with this FREE Every Day’s a Masterpiece 2024 Planner.Cut the fluff, punch up the power.Celebrate what habits brought you victory laps. Hold onto those like gold.Learn from your failures. Adapt, experiment, and find the path that works for you.Define your goals and plan your strategy.Changing HabitsEverything can be learned, including winning habits. Here's a helpful video from Dr Jud about Hacking Your Brain’s “Reward System” to Change Habits.Be a 2024 Champ2024 is your arena. Remember, champions thrive on actions. So keep moving and trying. Let these three simple questions guide you as you face and make 2024 your greatest victory yet, champ! Question for YouWhat are you hoping to make happen this year?
For Men Unveiling Semenax: Elevate Your Passion With Confidence 2:42 PM Tired of feeling unsatisfied in the bedroom? Yearning for a way to reignite your passion? We understand that the quality of your intimate moments can significantly impact your relationship and self-confidence. Don't fret. Semenax has got you covered. Join us on this adventure as we uncover the nitty-gritty details of this sought-after supplement. Understanding Semenax Semenax is a natural supplement that supports sexual health. Made with a combination of carefully chosen ingredients, that aims to increase the production of semen volume and can also boost overall sexual vitality. We'll highlight the benefits and popularity of Semenax in the market without going into technical details for future users to understand easily.The Magic of Semenax Discover how Semenax works in simple terms. The ingredients team up to boost semen volume, possibly affecting fertility and overall satisfaction in the bedroom. Knowing this process helps grasp how Semenax plays a role in making the sexual experience more fulfilling. What Makes Semenax Special Semenax's exceptional features include innovative formulations and exclusive aspects that make it stand out from other products. Users agree that these unique features are the reason why Semenax is the most sought-after supplement in the market and the top choice for those who aim to boost their sexual wellness. Guidance on Semenax Dosage Use Semenax with confidence by following the recommended dosage guidelines. Keep it simple and stick to the suggested amount for the best results. Clear and concise guidance ensures users get the most out of Semenax without any worries. Stick to the proper dosage to guarantee safety and make the experience compelling and reliable. By addressing concerns about using too much, users can be assured of a safe and successful experience, boosting their confidence in seamlessly incorporating Semenax into their daily routine. Exploring the Upsides and Downsides of Semenax Pros:Boosted sexual vitalityPotential enhancements in fertilityMore satisfying and fulfilling sexual experienceCons:Mild side effects, such as stomach discomfort or headaches, are experienced by some users.It's crucial to note that individual responses can vary for everyone, and what works for one person may not be the same for another. Based on these pros and cons, you can make an informed decision based on your lifestyle, goals, and preferences. Consider what you gain and what you might need to navigate so you can decide on what supplement you'll use that aligns with your expectations and comfort levels.Note: Semenax might not be an instant solution. It takes time to see noticeable results.Real Stories with SemenaxBefore buying, read the users' testimonials that offer a real-life glimpse into the Semenax journey. Learn their outcomes, stories, and authentic experiences, the satisfaction they found, and how they deal with common concerns so you can separate misconceptions based on honest feedback.Understanding Semenax IngredientsSemenax's ingredients come from natural sources, ensuring effectiveness and a commitment to health-conscious choices. By emphasizing these components' natural and safe origins, Semenax aims to offer a product that works well and aligns with users' health-conscious preferences. Semenax and Relationship Harmony Semenax might influence relationship dynamics, considering partner perspectives and shared experiences. This supplement could:enhance intimate satisfactioncontribute to a more fulfilling and satisfying intimate lifeopen doors for couples to be more open to each otherPartners should focus on open communication with each other for a lasting relationship. Sharing thoughts and experiences about the impact of Semenax helps couples navigate its potential benefits, creating a deeper connection and mutual understanding. Before Trying Semenax: Important Points to Note While Semenax can be helpful for some, it's essential to note any contraindications or precautions. Read the precautions on the label to ensure a personalized and safe approach tailored to individual needs. This way, individuals can decide whether Semenax is right for them and how to use it responsibly.Essentials of Semenax: Review Highlights Read what SemenPills.com says about Semenax—its effectiveness, unique features, and potential benefits for sexual wellness. By balancing the pros and cons, you can make well-informed decisions about whether Semenax suits your goals. Discussing your experiences and seeking professional advice as you consider your next moves is a good idea. Your journey towards a more satisfying, intimate life starts with thoughtful consideration and open communication. If you have questions or thoughts, please contact the Semenax team. They're ready to support your pursuit of sexual well-being.Question for YouWhat extra steps are you taking this year to enhance your health?
Lux Thinking Aloud Top 10 Ranking Blog Posts In 2023 2:37 PM I looked back at my blog performance this past year and was surprised that some of my top 10 ranking blog posts in 2023 were from as far back as eight years ago. If you missed any of these, here they are! 1. 20 Things Women Do More and Better Than MenI wrote this to celebrate International Women’s Day 2015. The purpose is to highlight what women can do more or better based on studies and statistics at that time. Not to compete and say women are superior beings, which some of the comments and messages I received claim. 😅 We’re all unique and have something to bring to the table at the end of the day. Enjoy reading!2. Korean Citron Tea Health Benefits: Why I Love ItIt was serendipitous when I discovered the beautiful benefits of citron tea in 2020. I drink it for when I’m about to go down with something. It helps. A LOT. Have you tried it?3. How Would You Rate YourselfWhen I wrote this in 2016, this post was about how you perceive yourself and how to celebrate who you are. I rewrote it in 2022 to include how to answer the question during a job interview since it’s commonly asked.4. Human Nature Sunflower Oil ReviewI’ve advocated for this brand because they’re pro-Philippines, pro-poor, and pro-environment. Not only are they sustainable and supportive of farmers and small businesses, but they’re also internationally recognized and awarded. The quality is globally competitive, but they’re cheaper compared to international brands.5. I Choose to Be Happy and 7 Beautiful Choosing Happiness QuotesWritten after a breakup, this is just me rambling about choosing to be happy over being miserable. It has garnered 189k impressions since then. Just shows you how a painful experience can pave the way to something better. I’ve got my ex to thank for that, I guess. 😄 DOWNLOAD FREE 31-Day Challenge for Happiness Happens Month6. A Letter from My Future SelfThis is another desperate attempt to console myself while in the middle of mending my broken heart. When things aren’t going well in the present, it helps to look forward to what you hope for.7. My Birthday Gratitude ListFrom a heart bursting with gratitude, realizing how blessed I still am despite what I was going through that year. DOWNLOAD FREE Gratitude Affirmations8. Life Lessons from MaleficentI was pleasantly surprised that a cartoon character I was curious about from childhood had an enticing, heartbreaking story. This has reminded me that no one is inherently evil. This is still one of my favorite villain origin stories.9. 10 Signs Your Partner is a ManchildI thank my guest blogger, Tracey Clayton, for this entertaining and insightful article. Maybe it’s time to accept guest posts again. 🤔 What do you think?10. The Power of an IntrovertThe moment I discovered I am an introvert was a light bulb and an angel singing in the background moment. I finally understood why loud music and the crowd make me tired and sleepy. I embraced who I am and stopped trying to prove to people that I am not boring. 😅 Just because I love solitude and quiet doesn’t mean I’m not having fun. Top 10 Ranking Blog Posts in 2023Thank you for being part of my 2023 blogging life. These blog posts ranked because of your kind comments and quick visits. Which of these were you able to read before? I created a 2024 planner for you as my end-of-year Thank You gift. Hope you use it to create your masterpiece of life next year.GET MY FREE 2024 PLANNER
For Moms Why Teaching Children To Love Books Is Important 2:36 PM Reading is one of the most valuable skills we can impart to children that will benefit them both in childhood and throughout their lives. When we teach children to love books from an early age, we set them up for academic achievement, expanded horizons and creativity, and a lifetime of learning and enjoyment. Builds Crucial Reading Skills Sparking an early interest in books and reading motivates children to pick up more books, read more on their own, and become better readers. Reading achievement is crucial for success in all subjects in school and beyond. Children who enter school with strong reading abilities have an advantage, while those who struggle to read fall further behind each year. When reading feels like fun rather than a chore, kids read more, which leads directly to improved reading and comprehension abilities. Expands Knowledge and PerspectiveExposure to books also expands children’s understanding of the world around them. Through both fiction and non-fiction books, children learn about people, places, periods, science, nature, and more that they may not encounter in their own lives. Books introduce new vocabulary words, ideas, and concepts that prepare them for future learning. The knowledge gained from reading is the power that feeds curious young minds. Sparks Creativity and Imagination Additionally, reading sparks imagination and creativity in kids. Following fun characters on exciting adventures allows children to envision themselves in fantastical situations dreaming up amazing new worlds different from everyday life. This strengthens their ability to be innovative thinkers and problem solvers—skills that aid them inside and outside the classroom. Reading exercises their creativity muscles which will benefit them in all subjects. Instills Lifelong Love of Reading Finally, helping children develop a true love of reading sets them up to be lifelong learners and readers. Those who reach for a book out of sheer enjoyment are intrinsically motivated to pick up more books throughout their lives. They turn to books and reading not just for school assignments but also during their free time for entertainment, information, or relaxation. Being a lifelong reader ensures continuing education even outside of school. Necessary for Continued Learning Reading remains integral not just in school but also throughout adult life. Those who reach adulthood with poor reading skills are limited in what they can accomplish. Strong literacy skills open doors to new employment opportunities as many jobs require the ability to read, comprehend, and even write effectively. Additionally, reading paves the path to learning new skills outside a formal education through instruction manuals, self-teaching books, online articles, and courses. Learn how to teach reading comprehension to children and see them thrive in later life.With so many benefits spanning from academic achievement to career success, sparking a passion for books from an early age is one of the most powerful things we can do for children’s growth and opportunities. Small efforts like reading aloud together, bringing them to libraries and bookstores, allowing time for independent reading, and keeping compelling books around the house can instill a deep, enduring love of reading that will serve them well at all ages. Teaching children to enjoy books goes a long way toward setting them up for achievement and happiness throughout their lives.
How-To Exploring The Globe Affordably: Savvy Strategies For Budget Travel 1:40 PM Traveling the world is a dream shared by many, but the prospect of high costs often discourages people from taking the plunge. However, seeing the world on a shoestring budget is possible with careful planning and a dash of creativity. In this article, we'll share some valuable tips to help you keep your travel expenses down, allowing you to embark on your dream adventures without breaking the bank.1. Book Travel and Activity Tickets in Advance for the Best PricesOne of the most effective ways to save on travel costs is to plan and book your tickets well in advance. Airlines and other transportation providers often offer significant discounts for travelers who book their tickets early. This approach helps you secure the best prices and allows you to have more flexibility in your travel dates.Booking tickets in advance also applies to attractions and activities abroad. By booking tickets in advance, you can visit if you want and when you want, avoiding long queues at ticket offices and avoiding massive disappointment in the process.2. Embrace the Art of Traveling Off-PeakAnother budget-friendly tip is to travel during the off-peak season. This means choosing to visit destinations when they are less crowded and typically less expensive. Off-peak travel helps you save money and allows you to enjoy a more authentic and peaceful experience.Many popular tourist destinations have distinct high and low seasons, so research the best time to visit your chosen location. Prices for accommodations, attractions, and flights can drop significantly during these times. Plus, you'll have the added benefit of avoiding long lines and crowded tourist spots.3. Consider Alternative Accommodation OptionsWhile hotels can offer comfort and luxury, they often come with a hefty price tag. To save money on accommodation, consider alternatives such as hostels, guesthouses, vacation rentals, or even camping.These options can be significantly more budget-friendly while providing a comfortable and unique experience.Visit if you want: Hostels are famous among budget travelers, offering affordable dormitory-style rooms or private accommodations. Many hostels also have communal kitchens where you can cook meals, reducing expenses. Vacation rentals like Airbnb can be another excellent option, especially if you're traveling with a group, as they often offer more space and amenities than hotels at a lower cost per person.4. Master the Art of Budget DiningFood is essential to the travel experience, and you don't have to break the bank to savor delicious local cuisine. To save money on dining while traveling, consider the following strategies:Eat Like a Local: Venture away from touristy areas and dine at local restaurants and street stalls. You'll get a taste of authentic cuisine and enjoy lower prices.Cook Your Meals: If you stay in accommodations with kitchen facilities, buy groceries and cook meals. This is an excellent way to save money and experience the local food culture through markets and grocery stores.Splurge Wisely: Instead of dining out for every meal, choose one or two special occasions to splurge on a high-end restaurant. This allows you to enjoy a gourmet experience without overspending.5. Explore Free and Low-Cost AttractionsMany destinations offer a wealth of free or low-cost attractions that allow you to experience the local culture and history without straining your budget. Research your destination's museums, parks, and historic sites to find options that won't dent your wallet.Visit if you want: City passes, or tourist cards can also be an excellent investment to visit multiple attractions. These cards often provide significant discounts or even free admission to attractions and public transportation.6. Opt for Public TransportationWhile taxis and rental cars can quickly eat into your travel budget, public transportation is often an affordable and convenient alternative. Trains, buses, trams, and subways can take you to most major attractions, and they are usually much cheaper than other forms of transportation. Plus, using public transport allows you to experience a destination like a local.In addition to saving money, using public transportation can also be more environmentally friendly, reducing your carbon footprint during your travels.7. Travel Light and Pack SmartPacking efficiently can save you money and hassle during your travels. Avoid checking in luggage whenever possible, as many airlines charge extra fees for checked bags. Stick to a carry-on suitcase and pack only the essentials to minimize expenses and avoid the risk of lost luggage.Furthermore, consider using versatile, mixed, and matched clothing to create different outfits. This way, you can pack less while still having various clothing options for your trip.Traveling on a Budget: A Rewarding AdventureEmbarking on a budget-friendly journey doesn't mean sacrificing the quality of your travel experience. By following these tips, you can explore the world while keeping your costs in check. Remember, the key to successful budget travel is careful planning, flexibility, and a willingness to embrace new experiences. So, go ahead and start planning your next adventure – it's possible to see the world without emptying your wallet.
Lux Thinking Aloud Birthday Realizations 1:38 PM Another year older, another opportunity for new perspectives.My actual birthday was much like any other day, with a dash of well wishes. I received warm greetings, had lunch with my sister and her family, and treated myself to a well-deserved day off.Oh, and guess what?It was also the release date for two books I had read in advance (It Should Have Been Us and Where We Fall). How incredible is that? Talk about feeling special! Now, here's a question: as you age, do you ever find your mind taking unexpected trips down memory lane, revisiting past birthdays? It happens to me, and let me tell you, it's quite the ride. It's a chance for reflection, a time to ponder what truly matters.Here's my birthday speech 😅 about a few birthday realizations this year:Celebration is a personal affair. What brings you happiness? If it's a wild party with 200 people, music blasting so loud you can barely hear yourself think, go ahead and boogie on. I've got no qualms about that. It's just not my cup of tea, not even when I was a teenager. I prefer the quiet and tranquil kind of celebration.If my sister hadn't texted me, I would have happily stayed home, tidying up and losing myself in the pages of my books. Some might consider that pathetic or sad, but trust me, it would have brought me pure bliss. A whole day free from work and the outside world, just reading? It's heaven in my book.And the joy of scrubbing away the grime and organizing my pantry and closet. It may sound strange, but it genuinely brings me peace. Picture a house so clean that you don't just see it. You can practically smell the freshness in the air. Just the thought brings me a serotonin boost.And let me tell you, my love for romance novels knows no bounds. I can happily spend an entire day lost in their pages, my heart soaring with each turn. Simple pleasures, right?TumblrJoy in simplicity.As I grow older, simplicity becomes more appealing. The need to prove my happiness to the world diminishes. I no longer seek validation from those who don't know me - and even those who are supposed to give me one.Knowing that I am loved by my Creator and cherished by the few people I hold dear truly matters.And as long as our dogs think I'm amazing, I'm good.I'd choose 10 genuine, caring individuals who support and love me over a thousand empty followers any day. It's about quality, not quantity.GiphyBest gifts are free.Material presents are lovely but don't hold a candle to the intangible treasures that fill my heart.I am truly blessed. Gratitude fills every corner of my being, reminding me of the abundance surrounding me. It's a gift in itself to recognize and appreciate the countless blessings in my life.My incredible husband, who loves me even when I'm not at my most lovable (bless his patient soul). Having someone who accepts and cherishes me for who I am is a gift.The handful of family members and friends. Their love and thoughtfulness brightened my day.Of course, my trusty books played a starring role in my birthday happiness. They whisked me away to far-off lands, introduced me to captivating characters, and filled my mind with wonder. They, indeed, are a source of endless entertainment and joy.Last but certainly not least, I have you right here, dear blogging friends. Your presence, trust, and support mean the world to me. It's a gift I cherish and never take for granted. Thank you for being here and sharing this journey with me.GiphyI can sincerely say that my birthday was a truly happy one. It may not have been filled with grand gestures or extravagant parties, but it was a day of genuine appreciation. And a break from adult responsibilities. Lol!That, my friend, is pure happiness.Thank you for being a part of it. 😘
Books ARC Book Review: It Should Have Been Us by Anna B. Doe 7:04 PM Love is always enough. But that doesn’t mean it’s easy. Or that it doesn’t require any effort. -It Should Have Been Us by Anna B. DoeSome people claim they don’t regret anything in life. Are you one of them? I’m definitely not. There are things I wish I’d have done differently. I just finished reading another advanced reader copy from a newly discovered author, and it made me think about my could have, should have, would have. Here’s my ARC review for It Should Have Been Us by Anna B. Doe.Book SummaryHe is the best man to her maid of honor. He’s also the boy who broke her heart three years ago.They were besties since diapers and high school sweethearts before they became exes.Rebecca and Miguel have again crossed paths for their best friends’ wedding.She has to confront the boy who once destroyed her heart. And as their paths intertwine, the secrets she has kept hidden threaten to resurface, leaving her with no escape from the past she thought she had left behind.“It was like an invisible string was pulling me toward it.” “We were connected in a way I could never honestly explain.”The CharactersRebecca Allison ‘Becky’ WilliamsA lovable, loyal, supportive friendDoting daughter and sisterTalented baker and owner of The Reading Nook (cafe + reading area)Miguel’s “Red”“There was always something about Rebecca that drew my attention from the time we were kids. It was her natural beauty and the determined way she walked through the world.Rebecca was my best friend. More than that, she was my person. Somebody who knew me so well that I didn’t have to open my mouth, and she’d already be there. She could read me without an issue, and I was the same.”Miguel Luis FernandezNFL starProdigal sonAlways have a soft spot for kidsBecky’s taste tester“It was funny because although I’ve been in Bluebonnet my whole life, feeling Miguel’s arms wrapped around me felt like I was finally, finally home once again.”TropesSecond chance romanceSports romanceBest friends to loversSmall-town romanceAngsty and steamyIt’s always been youRating⭐⭐⭐⭐💫🌶🌶🌶ARC Review: It Should Have Been Us by Anna B. DoeIt was nice to return home to Bluebonnet, where I first met Becky and Miguel in the book Kiss Me First (Emmet and Kate). It Should Have Been Us made me laugh but also broke my heart and put me back together.This book is an excellent reminder that constantly thinking about the past and all the “what-ifs” can hold you back and stop you from finding happiness.Why I like it:Becky. I’ve adored Rebecca ever since Kiss Me First. She’s kind but feisty. She’s always there supporting Miguel and Emmet from football practices to games, rain or shine. You’ll want to have her in your corner. Unexpected bomb. Just when I thought this would be another book of funny banters and cute ex-lovers who found their way back together, Anna B. Doe dropped a bomb that gave me all. The. Feels. 😩Healing closure. I don’t like misunderstandings in books, but I like the closure they both get. Along the way, I understood why they acted the way they did. Roller coaster of emotions. I like it when the book serves different emotions. I laughed a few times. I’ve missed the verbal battle between Miguel and Becky. There is tension between them every time they’re around each other. There were tears and heartaches, not just for them but also for some people around them.Indeed, it’s the things we didn’t do that we regret the most.The worst feeling in the world is knowing you could make things right, but you let it slip away.Knowing you could have prevented it is the only thing worse than a broken heart.And I felt all that while reading what came down between this couple I’ve come to love.Will I recommend this book?If you’re into second-chance love stories with lots of heart-fluttering moments, heartwrenching pasts, steamy scenes, and hard-earned happily ever after, this is your jam.Favorite ScenesPre-wedding football game in the backyardSeeing my fave characters from Blairwood University (another sports romance series from Anna B. Doe’s universe)Favorite QuotesYou can try to reason, but you and I both know you were made for me. This is inevitable. We’re inevitable.These last three years have felt like I was walking alone in the dark, endless tunnel with no way out. Coming back. Seeing her again. It was like I finally could see the light at the end of it.Love is always enough. But that doesn’t mean it’s easy. Or that it doesn’t require any effort.I loved her before I fell in love with her. She had me wrapped around her finger, completely enticed, and I was starting to wonder if that would ever change.She was the sun, and I was the one circling around her this whole time, needing her warmth and her light. Her love. I needed her love like I needed air to breathe.You’re my ride-or-die, Rebecca Williams. My forever.What are you reading next?I’m honored to be part of the ARC team for this book. If you want to check out It Should Have Been Us by Anna B. Doe, it’s FREE on Kindle Unlimited and available in paperback. Release date: December 08, 2023 on Amazon.This post contains affiliate links, so we’d get a commission if you purchase through the links at no additional cost. Thank you!Question for YouDo you believe in second chances? Where do you draw the line?Hey, you wanna be book buddies? I share short book reviews, recommendations, funny memes, and relatable reels on my Instagram account @booksandblogs_lux. Follow me there! I also post my reviews on Goodreads.
Books ARC Book Review: Where We Fall By Nicole Baker 5:00 PM ARC Book Review Where We Fall By Nicole Baker I've received another advanced reader copy from another favorite author of mine, Nicole Baker. Where We Fall is the third book in The Giannelli Series- Love in Little Italy. The release date is December 08 (my birthday!). Lexi and Marcus are another fictional couple that stole my heart. So, without further ado, here's my ARC review for Where We Fall by Nicole Baker.Book SummaryWhen an unexpected encounter jeopardizes their company's relationship with their top client, Marcus's siblings devise an unconventional plan. They propose that Marcus bring Lexi, their reserved and makeup-free IT Director, to the client's prestigious charity gala as his fake girlfriend. Despite Lexi's conservative style and timid nature, Marcus agrees to the charade in hopes of salvaging their business connection.As Marcus guides Lexi through a stunning transformation, he begins to notice more than just her physical changes. A newfound confidence emanates from Lexi, captivating Marcus in unexpected ways. As they keep playing the couple, Marcus can't help but feel drawn to Lexi on a deeper level. It's gone beyond playing pretend."I think getting us in each other's lives clearly wasn't enough. I was too blind. Fate needed to create a scenario that opened my eyes to what was right in front of me."The CharactersMarcusAccording to himself: The funny one, the idiot, the screw-up, the troublemaker. According to Lexi: That's just how Marcus is. He doesn't judge people by their shortcomings. He understands their past and chooses to be nice regardless of what is thrown at him. If there were more people like him in this world, we would be better off.LexiHardworking. Good daughter. IT genius. Doesn't wear makeup and wears baggy clothes almost twice her size. According to Marcus: Intelligent, bold, and kindhearted."I can tell underneath the glasses there's a pretty face. Perfectly feminine and elegant." TropesFake datingWorkplace romanceReformed playboyFun family dynamicsDual POVRating⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐🌶🌶🌶🌶ARC Review: Where We Fall by Nicole BakerWhere We Fall is a romantic comedy novel with swoon and steam. Here are some reasons why I like it:1. Good pacing.It's a quick and easy read.2. They bring out the best in each other. Marcus and Lexi encouraged and inspired each other to be better versions of themselves. At first, I didn't like the idea of Marcus suggesting Lexi needs a makeover to fit his standards for a girlfriend. But they're faking the relationship, and Marcus has a point. They have to be believable. Everybody knows Lexi isn't his type. And Lexi needs to feel good about herself so she'd be comfortable being at Marcus's side. Marcus wasn't a douche about it; he was actually apologetic because he didn't want it to come out insulting or offensive.Later, you'll learn that Lexi was not dressing up how she wanted to. Her childhood upbringing was holding her back from showing her best self. Marcus made her realize that she could be better. He pushed her to spread her wings. Because of the physical transformation, Lexi found confidence. So, instead of hating Marcus for wanting to change her looks, you'll thank him for suggesting it.Lexi made Marcus realize his worth. She showed him his strength and taught him to stand up for himself. To show the world - and his family - how brilliant and capable he is at what he does.3. Perfectly imperfect together.Marcus and Lexi are that couple you won't expect to get together on paper, but they're perfect for each other. They both saw each other for who they were beyond the facade they wore for other people. And they helped each other realize and show their potential.4. The Gianellis. What can I say? Everyone's just charming, hot, and perfect. The Gianellis are as supportive and loyal to each other as always. You'd want to be a part of the family or be friends with these people. And attend their Sunday family dinner for the food (Italian family makes the best food, right?) and the laughter.5. Grand Gesture and Happy Ending. I'm a sucker for happily ever after! But I like the story more if I knew it's HEA-guaranteed, but it still makes me think about how they will work things out to get there. Who's gonna follow who? Are they going to compromise? So, it kept me on my toes.I like that Lexi puts her family first and that Marcus does the same, but they make it work even when they encounter a bump along the way.Will I recommend this book? 100% if you like the tropes. Favorite ScenesThe makeover (when Lexi realized she could be more than what she thought she deserved)The Charity GalaThe post-Charity Gala Marcus' library (every booklover's dream)Favorite Quotes from the BookBeing with her was like learning to breathe deeply for the first time. I'm a mess without you. I don't want to live in a world where I don't see your face every day.What are you reading next?I'm already excited for Mia Giannelli's story. I'm honored to be part of the ARC team for this fantastic book. If you want to check out Where We Fall By Nicole Baker, it's FREE on Kindle Unlimited and available in paperback. It will be available on December 08, 2023 on Amazon.This post contains affiliate links, so we'd get a commission if you purchase through the links at no additional cost. Thank you!Question for YouWhat's the most heartwarming and extravagant thing you've ever done or that someone has done for you?Hey, you wanna be book buddies? I share short book reviews, recommendations, funny memes, and relatable reels on my Instagram account @booksandblogs_lux. Follow me there! I also post my reviews on Goodreads.
Lux Thinking Aloud Thank You For Being Here: Thanksgiving Message 3:38 PM Thank You For Being Here Thanksgiving Message It's been a while since I wrote something personal here. Not a life hack, love advice, or raving over my current book obsession. Not thinking about SEO or engagement. Just a raw, straight-from-the-heart message. Since it's time to express gratitude, let me give you my Thanksgiving message: thank you for being here. Especially if you've been around before I even took blogging seriously.To my OG readers, thank you for staying.I started writing because I'm too much of an introvert to talk about my feelings and thoughts. So, if you've been here since 2011, you've seen me pour my broken heart out over breakups, friendships that drifted apart, or generally over how messed up the world has become. But you didn't leave. As I evolved into a more mindful writer (yeah, I don't rant so much about life online anymore 😄), you stayed. My shift in interests and topics of choice might have given you a whiplash over the years, but you stayed. I'm eternally grateful for that. You're the real MVP. I consider you my friend, albeit online, so know that you're more than welcome to message me if you want to talk about life. To my new visitors, thank you for being here.You could've been doing something else with your time, but you chose to spend it reading my thoughts and sharing my experiences with me. Time is one of the most incredible things you could give someone, and I thank you for giving me a little bit of yours. I hope you stay!To my clients, thank you for your trust.Thank you for making this girl's dream come true: getting paid by doing what I love. Writing for your brand gives me purpose and pleasure. Your business has supported my passion, allowing me to maintain this website...and buy as many books as my storage can hold. To my favorite authors, thank you for sharing your world with me.I've been to many places. And lived multiple exciting lives thanks to the beautiful books you've written. Your mind is a treasure trove. Thank you for introducing me to those unforgettable characters and allowing me to visit those charming places that could only exist in your imagination. They could've stayed in your brilliant minds, but you chose to share them with the world. Thank you for being so generous.To my naysayers, thank you for inspiring me.Thank you for telling me, "You're not a writer, and you'll never be one." Your comments surely have fueled me to learn more and be better at what I do. I am truly, sincerely, genuinely touched by the amount of time and energy you spend thinking and talking about me. You're one of the reasons I keep going. Thanks for keeping me grounded.To my amazing husband, thank you for being the best.I knew you were the one from when you told me you read my blog to get to know me more. 😅Marriage may be a roller coaster ride, but I'm beyond grateful you're the one I'm riding this crazy life with. I couldn't ask for a better partner. You never made me doubt or second-guess our marriage. I sleep better knowing that you always have my back. Thank you for showing me how to be unequivocally loved, accepted, appreciated, and celebrated by simply being myself.To myself, thank you for not giving up!Don't get weirded out if I address myself here. Because I give myself a pep talk and hype myself up all the time (studies show that it's actually healthy). So, allow me to write this Thanksgiving message:Dear Self,Oh, the battles we've been through the past few years! But look at you still standing. Still fighting. Still finding joy and beauty in your every day.Thank you for being strong and kind and for not losing your humor and sense of wonder. You are magnificent. You got this!Thanksgiving MessageMy life is not perfect, but my heart is filled with gratitude. Who or what are you thankful for the most this year?
