Dahlias: Beautiful Varieties for Home & Garden by Naomi Slade

Dahlias have been my favorite flower for as long as I can remember, so this book already had an advantage before I even opened it. Thankfully, it lived up to my expectations. Instead of feeling like a gardening manual, it felt like spending time with someone who genuinely understands why people become obsessed with these flowers.

I love seeing just how much variety exists within the dahlia world. Page after page of different blooms. Some blooms looked elegant, some looked delightfully over-the-top, and a few were so unusual I had trouble believing they were all part of the same family

The photographs by Georgianna Lane are stunning.  I admired the details in the petals.

I also appreciated that Naomi Slade includes growing information and history without overwhelming the reader. There's plenty to learn, but the book never loses sight of what drew me to it in the first place: the flowers themselves.

If you already love dahlias, this book feels like celebrating an old favorite. If you don't, there's a good chance you'll finish it wondering where you can plant a few.

★★★★★

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October 21 - Hold onto Hope

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month 💗

Hope carried me during some of the most difficult moments of my life.

There were days filled with uncertainty, fear, and questions about the future. Days when the road ahead seemed overwhelming and the answers were hard to find. During those times, hope gave me the courage to keep moving forward, one day at a time.

My faith in God strengthened that hope. When I couldn't see what tomorrow would bring, I trusted that He was walking beside me. When I felt weak, He gave me strength. When I felt afraid, He gave me peace. Faith reminded me that even in the darkest moments, I was never alone.

Hope isn't pretending everything is easy. Hope is believing that better days are ahead, even when the path is difficult. It's choosing to trust, to persevere, and to keep putting one foot in front of the other.

Twenty years later, hope continues to inspire me. It inspires me every time I see a survivor celebrating another birthday, every time I hear about new medical advances, and every time someone shares their story and encourages another person facing the same journey.

If you're walking through a difficult season today, hold on to hope. Lean on your faith. Accept support from those who love you. And remember that even the smallest light can shine brightly in the darkness.

Hope carried me then, and it continues to inspire me today.

💗

October 20 - Small Acts Matter

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

A card. A call. A hug. A prayer.

Small acts of kindness can mean everything to someone facing cancer.

When someone receives a cancer diagnosis, it's often the simple gestures they remember most. A thoughtful message. A meal dropped off at the door. A friend who checks in regularly. A ride to an appointment. A hand to hold during a difficult moment.

People sometimes worry they don't know the right thing to say or do. The truth is you don't need grand gestures. You just need to show up. Acts of kindness may seem small to the people offering them, but they made a tremendous difference to the receiver. 

My faith also taught me the power of prayer and encouragement. Some of the greatest comfort came from knowing others were lifting me up in prayer and asking God to give me strength for another day. Those prayers carried me through moments when I felt overwhelmed and uncertain.

This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, remember that you don't have to solve someone's problems to make a difference. A kind word, a listening ear, a note of encouragement, or a simple prayer can bring hope when it's needed most.

Never underestimate the impact of a small act of kindness.

💗

The First Time I Saw Him by Laura Dave - A Review

I liked the first book, so this one had a lot to live up to. Maybe that's part of the reason it didn't quite work as well for me.

I was happy to spend more time with Hannah and Bailey, and I did appreciate finally getting some answers after everything that happened in the first book. That sense of closure was probably my favorite part. Still, I never found myself completely pulled into the story. I'd read a few chapters, put it down, and wasn't always in a rush to pick it back up.

The relationships kept my attention more than anything else. The family dynamics felt messy, complicated, and real, and those were the moments that stood out most to me. A few situations seemed to wrap up faster than I expected, while other issues felt like they went in circles, so the pacing felt a little uneven at times.

I'm glad I got to see where these characters ended up. I just finished it wishing I had loved it as much as the first book. That one felt more natural to me, while this one never completely won me over.

★★★

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October 19 - Survivorship Is a Journey

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Survivorship doesn't end when treatment ends.

It's a lifelong appreciation for every moment, every blessing, and every milestone. It's learning to celebrate ordinary days, cherish time with loved ones, and never take good health for granted.

Today is especially meaningful because it's my birthday. Every birthday feels like a gift, a reminder of how precious life truly is.

Over the years, I've developed a simple way to remember my breast health routine. I use my birthday, the 19th, as my reminder.

On the 19th of every month, I perform my self-exam. And every year on this day, I make sure my annual mammogram is scheduled. It's a simple habit, but it helps me stay consistent and makes it easy to remember.

As a breast cancer survivor, I know firsthand that early detection matters. Taking a few minutes each month to know your body and keeping up with annual screenings can make a life-changing difference.

My faith has taught me that every day is a gift from God and that caring for our health is one way we honor that gift. I am grateful for every birthday, every milestone, and every opportunity to encourage others to be proactive about their health.

If you struggle to remember your monthly self-exams or annual mammogram, consider tying them to a date that's meaningful to you. A birthday, anniversary, or special occasion can serve as a simple reminder to make your health a priority.

Today, I'm celebrating another year of life, another year of blessings, and another year of hope. 💗

October 18 - Friendly Reminder

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

When was your last mammogram?

If you're due for a screening, consider this your friendly reminder to schedule one today.

As a breast cancer survivor, I know how important regular screenings can be. But I also understand that life circumstances sometimes make healthcare difficult to access.

After my cancer treatment, I went seven years without a mammogram because I didn't have health insurance. One year, while attending our local Relay For Life, I was sharing my story with a volunteer. During our conversation, she asked if I was in remission. My honest answer was, "I have no idea."

She then suggested that I contact a nonprofit organization in Houston called The Rose.

I made the call, and it changed everything.

Through The Rose, I was able to receive free mammograms every year until I obtained health insurance. The peace of mind those screenings provided was priceless. They gave me the opportunity to monitor my health when I otherwise would not have been able to afford it.

Even today, I continue to have my mammograms there. They helped me when I needed it most, and I have never forgotten that kindness. I also love knowing that every paid mammogram helps support someone else who may be facing the same challenges I once did.

My faith has taught me that God often places people in our path exactly when we need them. That Relay For Life volunteer, The Rose, and the caring professionals who helped me along the way were blessings I will always be grateful for.

If you've been putting off your mammogram, please make the call. And if cost or lack of insurance is a concern, don't assume you have no options. There may be organizations in your community ready to help.

Your health matters. Early detection matters. And you are worth taking care of.

💗

October 17 - Remembering Loved Ones

Octoberius Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Today I honor those who lost their battle with breast cancer.

While October is a time to celebrate survivors and advances in treatment, it is also a time to remember the loved ones who are no longer with us. Their lives mattered. Their stories mattered. And the love they shared continues to live on in the hearts of those who miss them every day.

One of my best friends from high school was lost to this horrible disease a few years ago. She fought breast cancer not once, but twice. She faced each battle with remarkable courage, determination, and grace, but ultimately lost her fight. Even now, I think about her often. I remember her friendship, her laughter, and the impact she had on the lives of those who knew and loved her.

Her loss is a reminder that breast cancer affects far more than the person diagnosed. It leaves an empty place in the hearts of family members, friends, classmates, coworkers, and entire communities. For every survivor celebrating another year, there are families carrying the pain of someone they wish was still here.

Many of us carry memories of mothers, sisters, daughters, grandmothers, friends, and family members whose lives were touched by breast cancer. Though they may no longer be with us, the love they gave, the lessons they taught, and the memories they created remain.

My faith in God brings me comfort on days like this. It reminds me that even though we grieve, we do not grieve without hope. I believe my friend is now in the loving arms of her Savior, free from pain and suffering, and at peace in His presence. While I miss her deeply, that faith helps me focus not only on the sadness of loss but also on the gratitude of having known and loved such a special person.

Today, I pray for every family missing a loved one. I pray for comfort, strength, and peace. And I pray for those currently facing this disease, that they will be surrounded by support, encouragement, and hope.

This October, let us honor those we have lost by continuing to raise awareness, support research, encourage screenings, and care for one another. Their stories inspire us to keep fighting for a future with fewer losses and more survivors.

They are gone, but they are never forgotten. 💗

The Love Wager by Lynn Painter - A Review

This book was just plain fun. I picked it up wanting something light and entertaining, and it delivered exactly that. I loved the way these two interacted. Their conversations felt natural, playful, and had me smiling more than once.

What I enjoyed most was how easy it was to spend time with these characters. I wanted to see them text, talk, tease each other, and slowly realize what was right in front of them. The story didn't need a lot of drama to keep me interested because the characters carried it on their own.

This was one of those books that put me in a good mood and left me closing the cover with a smile. Sometimes that's all I need from a romance.

★★★★

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October 16 - For Those Fighting Today

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

If you're currently battling breast cancer, know this:

You are stronger than you think. You are braver than you know. You are not alone.

There will be difficult days. Days when you're tired, frustrated, scared, or simply overwhelmed by everything you're facing. On those days, give yourself grace. You don't have to be strong every minute of every day.

Most importantly, don't be afraid to ask for help.

Let people bring a meal. Let a friend drive you to an appointment. Let family help with chores, errands, or childcare. Let others pray for you and support you. The people who love you want to help, and accepting that help is not a sign of weakness. It's a reminder that no one is meant to carry life's heaviest burdens alone.

Hold on to hope. Lean on your faith. Take things one day at a time, and sometimes one moment at a time. Even when the road feels long, keep moving forward.

There is strength inside you. There is love surrounding you. And there is always hope.

You are not alone. 💗

October 15 - Awareness Beyond October

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month 💗

Breast cancer awareness shouldn't end when October ends.

While October shines a spotlight on breast cancer, our health deserves attention every day of the year. Awareness is not just a month-long effort. It is a lifelong commitment to taking care of ourselves, scheduling recommended screenings, performing self-exams, and paying attention to changes in our bodies.

As a breast cancer survivor, I know firsthand the importance of staying vigilant. Early detection saved my life, and that lesson doesn't expire when the calendar turns to November. Every month is the right month to prioritize your health.

My faith has also been an important part of this journey. Through the challenges of diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship, God gave me strength, comfort, and hope. He reminded me to be grateful for each day and to cherish the gift of good health.

As Breast Cancer Awareness Month comes to a close, let's commit to carrying the message forward. Continue the conversations. Encourage screenings. Support those facing a diagnosis. Share hope. Offer prayers. And remember that awareness matters every day of the year.

Because taking care of ourselves and those we love is never out of season.

💗

October 14 - Thankful for Progress

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month 💗

Every October, we pause to honor survivors, remember those we have lost, support those currently fighting, and celebrate the incredible advancements that continue to change lives.

I am especially grateful for the progress made through research, medicine, early detection, and innovation. These advances have given hope to countless individuals and families facing a breast cancer diagnosis. They have transformed what was once a much more difficult journey into one with more treatment options, better outcomes, and brighter futures.

This cause is deeply personal to me. My mom faced a much more difficult battle than I did, and her experience reminds me just how far we have come. Because of the dedication of researchers, medical professionals, advocates, and survivors who have shared their stories, every year brings new breakthroughs and renewed hope.

My faith in God has also been an important part of my journey. Through the challenges, uncertainties, and fears that come with a cancer diagnosis, my faith gave me strength, comfort, and peace. It reminded me that I was never facing the journey alone and helped me hold on to hope even during difficult days.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is more than wearing pink. It is about education, encouraging screenings, supporting loved ones, funding research, and continuing the fight until no family has to hear the words "you have cancer." It is also about lifting one another up through faith, prayer, compassion, and encouragement.

Today, I am thankful for the progress that has been made and hopeful for the discoveries still to come. If sharing our stories encourages even one person to schedule a screening, seek medical advice, or support someone going through treatment, then it matters.

To all the survivors, fighters, caregivers, families, healthcare professionals, and prayer warriors: your strength, resilience, compassion, and faith inspire us every day.

💗

Edge of Darkness by Kyla Stone - A Review

I really enjoyed the first couple of books, and I was hoping this one would finally start delivering some bigger answers. Instead, it felt like the story was spinning its wheels. Some of the same dangers, the same chase, and a lot of waiting for things to move forward in a meaningful way.

I still cared about the characters, which is what kept me reading, but by the end I felt more relieved to be finished than excited to pick up the next book. After three books, I wanted more payoff and more progress. Instead, I found myself ready for something completely different.

This wasn't a bad book, but it wasn't enough to keep me invested in the series. For me, this is where the journey ends.

★★★

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Easy Anti-Inflammatory Diet Air Fryer Cookbook: Clean and Quick Recipes to Fight Inflammation for Whole-Body Health by Julie Andrews - Now Released

Now Released

I really enjoyed Easy Anti-Inflammatory Diet Air Fryer Cookbook and thought it was a practical, beginner-friendly cookbook for anyone who wants healthier meals without giving up flavor or convenience. As someone who uses an air fryer often and appreciates simple recipes that still feel nourishing, this book felt very approachable and easy to work into everyday life.

I like that the cookbook starts with helpful information about anti-inflammatory eating, including foods that may help fight inflammation and foods that can make it worse. It gives enough background to be useful without feeling overwhelming, which makes it a good option for readers who are just getting started with this way of eating. I also appreciated the grocery-saving tips, the cooking charts, and the measurement conversions at the end because those are the kinds of extras I actually come back to when using a cookbook.

The recipes are organized into helpful sections like breakfast and brunch, snacks, plant-based mains, chicken and turkey, seafood, meats, vegetables and sides, and desserts. There is a nice variety here, from super simple ideas like sweet potato wedges, edamame with chili flakes, fajitas, and bruschetta to recipes that take a little more effort. I especially liked the sound of the seafood recipes, cinnamon apple chips, crispy chicken tenders, carrot cake cookies, and the dessert options. I also liked that some recipes bring in bold and spicy flavors instead of making healthy food feel plain or boring.

The air fryer focus is what makes this cookbook stand out. It takes familiar comfort foods and gives them a cleaner, lighter twist while still keeping that crispy texture that makes air fryer cooking so easy and satisfying. Most of the ingredients seem easy to find at a regular grocery store, and the instructions are clear enough for beginners while still useful for more experienced home cooks.

My main reason for giving this 4 stars instead of 5 is that I wish there were more photos throughout the cookbook. For cookbooks, I love being able to see what the finished recipe should look like, and the layout felt a little plain in places. I also noticed recipes placed in the wrong section, which could just be an early copy issue.

Overall, this is a solid, realistic, and useful cookbook for air fryer lovers, beginners, and anyone interested in adding more anti-inflammatory meals into their routine. It feels clean, quick, and doable, which is exactly what it promises. I’m looking forward to trying several of these recipes myself.

★★★★

Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for providing a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.

October 13 - Life After Cancer

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month 💗

As I celebrate 20 years of survivorship, I am grateful for every day I've been given.

A cancer diagnosis changes your perspective in ways you never expect. It teaches you that life is precious and that even the smallest moments are gifts. There truly is life after cancer, and it can be a fulfilling, rewarding, and joy-filled life.

My faith in God has been a big part of that journey. During the difficult days, when I faced uncertainty, fear, and questions about the future, my faith gave me strength, comfort, and hope. I trusted that God was walking beside me through every challenge and carrying me when I felt I could not take another step.

Over the past 20 years, I have been blessed to experience so many milestones that once seemed uncertain. I've watched my children grow up, build lives of their own, get married, and welcome babies into the world. I've shared laughter with family and friends, celebrated holidays, made memories, and enjoyed countless ordinary moments that have become extraordinary simply because I was here to experience them.

Cancer taught me to appreciate the little things I once took for granted. A phone call from a loved one. A family gathering. A quiet morning. A sweet smile from a grandchild. These moments may seem small, but they are the blessings that make life so rich.

This month, I honor everyone whose life has been touched by breast cancer. I celebrate the survivors, remember those we've lost, support those currently fighting, and thank the researchers, doctors, nurses, caregivers, and prayer warriors who continue to make hope possible.

Twenty years later, my heart is full of gratitude. Every day is a gift, every milestone is a blessing, and every year reminds me just how precious life truly is. I thank God for His faithfulness, for the people who walked this journey with me, and for the countless blessings He has given me along the way.

💗

Edge of Madness by Kyla Stone - A Review

I enjoyed this one more than the first book. I felt more connected to the characters, and I was much more invested in what happened to them. The story kept moving, but it also took time to show how people were coping and adjusting to everything that had changed.

I especially liked that we finally got some answers and resolutions after the events of the first book. Not everything is wrapped up, but enough happens to make the story feel satisfying while still leaving me curious about what comes next. Overall, this was a stronger read for me than Edge of Collapse.

★★★★

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October 12 - Awareness Creates Change

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month 

Every conversation matters.

Sometimes a simple conversation can make a life-changing difference. Sharing information about breast cancer helps raise awareness, encourages people to know their risk factors, recognize warning signs, and stay current with recommended screenings.

Many of us know someone whose life has been touched by breast cancer. By talking openly about our experiences, sharing resources, and encouraging one another to prioritize our health, we can help remove fear and uncertainty from the conversation.

As a survivor, I also believe faith plays an important role in the journey. During difficult times, faith can provide comfort, strength, and hope when the road ahead feels uncertain. Whether through prayer, encouragement, or simply knowing someone is thinking of you, those expressions of faith can make a world of difference.

Early detection saves lives. A reminder from a friend, a family member sharing their story, or a post that catches someone's attention could be the encouragement they need to schedule a mammogram or speak with their doctor. We may never know the impact our words have, but they matter.

This month, let's continue to educate, support, and uplift one another. Share information. Share hope. Share your story if you're comfortable doing so. Share your faith if it has strengthened your journey. You never know who may need to hear it.

Together, through awareness, education, research, early detection, and faith, we can make a difference.

💗

October 11 - The Meaning of Scars

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month 

Scars tell stories.

To me, they represent strength, resilience, and the determination to keep moving forward. They are reminders of battles fought, challenges overcome, and the grace that carried me through some of life's most difficult moments.

As a breast cancer survivor, I don't see my scars as something to hide. I see them as evidence of perseverance, courage, and hope. They remind me of how far I've come and of the countless blessings I've received along the way.

There was a time when I hid my scars because I felt ashamed of them. I saw them as reminders of what I had been through and what cancer had taken from me. But over time, my perspective changed. Today, I see those scars differently. They tell a story of survival, strength, and a journey that I was blessed to overcome.

Most of all, my scars remind me of God's faithfulness. During the moments when I felt afraid, uncertain, or overwhelmed, my faith gave me strength. When I couldn't see what was ahead, I trusted that God was walking beside me, carrying me through each step of the journey.

Today, I am grateful for every scar, every lesson, and every day I've been given. What once seemed like a painful reminder has become a symbol of survival, faith, and the gift of a second chance at life.

💗

October 10 - Celebrating Survivors

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month 

Today, I celebrate every survivor.

Whether you're one year out, ten years out, or thirty years out, your story matters, your journey matters, and your courage inspires others more than you may ever know.

As a 20-year breast cancer survivor, I understand how precious each year can be. I remember a time when I wasn't sure what the future would hold. Reaching this milestone is something I never take for granted.

Over the past 20 years, I have been blessed with so many moments that once seemed uncertain. I've watched my children grow up, get married, and build families of their own. I've welcomed grandchildren into the world, celebrated birthdays and holidays, and experienced countless ordinary days that became extraordinary simply because I was here to live them.

Survivorship is not just about the years behind us. It's about embracing the life we've been given and finding joy in the moments that matter most. Cancer taught me to appreciate things I once took for granted, a phone call from a loved one, a family gathering, a quiet morning, or a sweet smile from a grandchild.

Today, I honor the strength, resilience, and determination of every survivor. I know the fears, the challenges, the waiting, and the gratitude that can come with this journey. Thank you for sharing your stories, encouraging others, and reminding the world that there is hope beyond a diagnosis.

No matter where you are on your journey, take a moment to celebrate how far you've come. Every year is a gift, every milestone is a blessing, and every survivor story is a powerful reminder that hope endures.

💗

October 9 - Stronger Than I Knew

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month 

There were moments during my breast cancer journey when I questioned how much strength I had left.

At the time, I was caring for a newborn and five other children who were home for summer vacation. Life was already busy, and cancer certainly didn't put the demands of motherhood on hold. There were diapers to change, meals to prepare, laundry to fold, appointments to manage, and six children who still needed their mom.

I was still working, too.

Some days, I honestly don't know how I managed it all. I would go to treatments and doctor's appointments, then come home and jump right back into caring for my family. There wasn't much time to stop and think about what I was facing because there were so many people depending on me.

There were moments when I was exhausted, overwhelmed, and afraid. There were days when I cried in private because I didn't want my children to see how scared I was. There were nights when I lay awake wondering what the future would hold and praying for the strength to face another day.

But through it all, I leaned on my faith in God.

When I felt weak, He gave me strength. When I felt afraid, He gave me peace. When I couldn't see what the future would hold, I trusted that He was walking beside me every step of the way. My faith carried me through some of the darkest moments and reminded me that I was never facing the battle alone.

Looking back 20 years later, I've learned something important: we are often stronger than we realize. At the time, I didn't feel strong. I was simply doing what needed to be done each day. Through God's grace, the love of family and friends, and a determination to keep going, I found a strength I never knew I had.

Today, I am grateful for every challenge I overcame and every blessing that followed. I've watched my children grow up, get married, and have children of their own. I've experienced milestones and moments that once seemed uncertain, and each one is a reminder of God's faithfulness and the gift of another day.

If there's one lesson I've learned, it's this: when you think you've reached your limit, you may discover a strength you never knew existed. Sometimes you take the next step simply because you have no other choice. Then one day, you look back and realize just how far God has carried you.

Edge of Collapse by Kyla Stone - A Review

This was a fun, fast-moving read that kept me interested from the very beginning. I really enjoyed the premise and liked following the characters as they tried to navigate a world that had suddenly changed overnight. There was always something happening, which made it easy to keep turning the pages.

A few parts didn't work quite as well for me as others, but l I had a good time with it. If you enjoy stories about survival, resilience, and people finding strength in difficult situations, this is an entertaining start to the series.

★★★½

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Reading for Enjoyment, Not the Numbers

I've never been much of a reading goal person. I read because I enjoy it, and I don't want it to feel like another task. If I'm not enjoying a book, I have no problem setting it aside and moving on.

That said, I set a goal of 125 books for 2026 and ended up reaching it much faster than I expected. As of today, I've read 156 books with 85 days still left in the year.

Lately, though, I've slowed down quite a bit, and I'm perfectly okay with that. The goal was fun, but the number was never the point. Reading has always been about enjoying the books, not racing through them. If I read 20 more this year, great. If I don't, that's fine too.

    Favorite Book so far this year: 

Bad Words by Rioghnach Robinson

Runners Up:  (In no particular order)

The Last to Drown by Noelle Ihli

A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara

Calamity Club by Kathryn Stockett

October 8 - Know Your Normal

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month 

No one knows your body better than you.

Regular self-exams and paying attention to changes can be lifesaving. If something feels different, don't ignore it. Trust yourself and speak up.

As a breast cancer survivor, this message is deeply personal. When I was pregnant, I found a lump and brought it to my doctor's attention. At first, he believed it was related to a milk duct issue and not something to worry about. But I knew something wasn't right.

I spoke up again. And then a third time. Within just two weeks, the lump had grown to four times its original size. Only then did my doctor realize further testing was needed.

That experience taught me one of the most important lessons of my life: be your own advocate. You know your body better than anyone else. If something doesn't feel right, keep asking questions. Seek answers. Request additional testing if necessary. Don't be afraid to speak up for yourself.

My faith in God also carried me through that difficult season. When I was frightened and uncertain about what lay ahead, I found strength in prayer and comfort in knowing that God was with me every step of the journey. Faith gave me the courage to keep pushing for answers when I knew something wasn't right.

Early detection saved my life, and it has saved countless others. Awareness is important, screenings are important, but listening to your body is important, too.

This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, make your health a priority. Know your body, trust your instincts, lean on your faith, and never hesitate to advocate for yourself.

You are your own best advocate. 💗

A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara - A Revuew

A Little Life is not something I would normally reach for, but it ended up being one of the most beautifully written novels I’ve ever read. Hanya Yanagihara’s prose is stunning. Every sentence feels intentional, and her ability to capture emotion is remarkable. The writing is immersive, intimate, and powerful enough to stay with you long after you’ve closed the book.

This is an emotionally heavy story, and I absolutely recommend reading trigger warnings beforehand. That said, the depth of feeling is also what makes the book so impactful. Yanagihara doesn’t shy away from pain, but she writes it with care, patience, and a level of honesty that feels rare.

It’s also a long read, the kind that demands time and attention. I read it digitally and definitely wished for a paperback more than once. Still, the length allows the characters and relationships to unfold fully, making the emotional payoff feel earned.

While the story itself may not be something I’d revisit often, Yanagihara’s talent is undeniable. I’m eager to read more of her work, because her voice is one that deserves to be experienced, even when it’s difficult.

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October 7 - Wear Pink with Purpose

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month 

Pink is more than a color.

It represents courage, hope, awareness, and the millions of people whose lives have been affected by breast cancer. It represents survivors, those currently fighting, the loved ones who stand beside them, and the memories of those we carry in our hearts.

For many of us, pink also represents faith. Faith during the difficult days. Faith when the future feels uncertain. Faith that gives us strength when we feel weak and hope when we need it most.

As a breast cancer survivor, pink took on a whole new meaning in my life. Quite honestly, right after my treatments, my children drew everything in pink, bought everything pink they could find, and decorated everything pink. It felt like pink was everywhere!

I'll admit, there were times when it became a little tiresome. 😊 But looking back, I realize those pink drawings, decorations, and gifts were expressions of love from children who wanted their mom to know they cared. What I remember most isn't the color. It's the support behind it.

Today, when I see pink, I'm reminded of that love, the people who stood by me, the faith that carried me through, and the blessings that followed.

So wear pink with purpose today. Wear it for awareness. Wear it for hope. Wear it for those still fighting. Wear it for the survivors. And wear it as a reminder that even the smallest acts of love and support can mean more than we ever realize.

💗

Cancer changed my life in ways I never expected.

Before cancer, life often felt like a race from one responsibility to the next. There were meals to cook, laundry to fold, bills to pay, and lots of children to care for. Like so many parents, I was focused on getting through each day and checking items off my to do list.

Cancer forced me to slow down and look at life differently.

It taught me that I have no idea what burdens other people may be carrying. It taught me that compassion matters. It taught me that some of life's greatest blessings are found in the ordinary moments we so often take for granted.

Most importantly, it taught me that every day is a gift.

Since my diagnosis, I have watched my children grow up, get married, and build families of their own. I have become a grandmother. I have celebrated birthdays, holidays, and milestones that once seemed uncertain. I have enjoyed countless ordinary days that now feel extraordinary simply because I was here to experience them.

My journey was not easy. It tested me physically, emotionally, financially, and spiritually. But through every challenge, God remained faithful. He gave me strength when I felt weak, peace when I was afraid, and hope when I couldn't see what the future held.

Today, more than 20 years later, I remain grateful. Grateful for my family. Grateful for the doctors, nurses, and caregivers who cared for me. Grateful for the people who prayed for me, encouraged me, and walked beside me. And grateful for every day I've been given.

If there is one thing I hope others take away from my story, it is this: know your body, trust your instincts, and advocate for yourself. When I knew something wasn't right, I kept asking questions. That decision may have saved my life.

Early detection matters. Self exams matter. Mammograms matter.

And life is far too precious to take for granted.