Tag: Health

Book Review · Books

Day By Day: A Guided Journal by Jess Conte

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A new year means you just might be hunting for a new journal. Some journals offer plain blank pages to write whatever you want, but this upcoming journal by Jess Conte offers something better. She provides a wide range of different writing prompts from writing about your childhood, to filling out a never have I ever page, to narrowing down which foods you can’t stand, etc. Sprinkled throughout this journal Jess also offers both heart and health check in pages to gauge how you might be holding up on a particular day.

This journal I feel gives a wide range of different writing prompts. Some were fairly traditional and others were a nice surprise. The one thing that was missing, in my opinion, is more Christian faith content. Jess does have micro spots of a sentence here or there, but there are no Bible verses, prayers, etc. Maybe this journal is more for a general audience rather than a faith based one. Either audience I think would appreciate this journal. I believe Jess captures a writer’s full portrait so to speak with covering so many different topics within this journal.

I received my complimentary copy of Day By Day: A Guided Journal by Jess Conte from EllieClaire.com, a division of Hachette Book Group, Inc to provide my honest feedback. Thoughts expressed are my own and of my own choice. Keep an eye out for this pretty soon to be released journal.

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Rona is a mental cluster Fudge!

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Yes, I dared use the matriarch of all swear words, but sadly I feel in this instance it perfectly describes what’s happened and is happening. The world is being held in abject TERROR over a virus. Yes, there is a risk with ANY virus. This particular one has been showcased through MSM as THE one we all need to fear.

What scares me worse than Rona? What scares me worse than a touted deadly virus is how the whole song and dance is ripping us ALL apart mentally. Can you truly go out into society and act just like you did prior to 2020? Personally no I can’t. I may appear that I am, but mentally I’m going over that I’m not to touch my face and as soon as my rear gets home I need to wash my hands.

I know masks are a hot topic. Either viewpoint you’re damned socially. What people aren’t thinking of is how it started out as merely wearing one for 2 weeks which stretched to much longer to the point of making us feel that if we weren’t wearing one it was like we’d forgotten to put on our underwear. Social conditioning is a sly beast and we’ve all been had. I like to breathe fresh air and not take back in my stinky breath from wearing a mask or what feels more like a muzzle.

Haven’t you noticed how this whole event has divided us whether it’s between family members, friends, significant others, etc? We’ve allowed this to break apart our families, friendships, etc. It’s transformed some of us into elitists and others of us into rebels. A line has been drawn.

Wether or not you view what’s unfolding before us as the End Times, can you sense how world events are escalating at a more rapid rate? Things are turning topsy turvy and it’s a lot to take in. So thankful I don’t own a TV. No news propaganda needed in my home.

You may not agree with one word I’ve typed. That’s ok. I know this post may cost me friendships, but I felt it was time to broach the true result of Rona. It’s psychologically changing us. We’ve been conditioned on so many different levels. The saddest thing is people’s legit fear of hugging someone. The elites have accomplished morphing us into good little slaves to their propaganda. For the good of everyone, but how much longer do you think our ‘freedom’ will last before they unleash their next bag of tricks to reach their end game?

Would love to hear your thoughts. Feel free to comment below. Looking forward to dialoging with you.

**DISCLAIMER: I am NOT a medical or psychology professional. This post is strictly my own views**

Book Review · Books

Peaceful On Purpose

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Currently in the world, peace seems like the last thing that’s a possibility. We’re dealing with a world wide pandemic, there are raging fires and earthquakes that feel like they are just ramping up for a big one. Life feels like we are stuck on mental rollercoaster mode and we just want to get off this trying ride.

I admit I was a tad skeptical on the topic of being peaceful on purpose. How is that remotely possible? Christian or not. It sounds too pie in the sky and wishy washy. I’m sure lots of readers may be rolling their eyes. It’s understandable. Times aren’t exactly screaming peace.

Joel’s book is short with a powerful point. God is in control. We may be not be able to see the bigger picture or outcome, but He is in control. Not that we shouldn’t be responsible or accountable for our actions, but knowing He does have us in the palm of His hand should be comforting. We try to hold tight control to so much. That stubbornness just gives us more frustration and anxiety. Do we need more of both when times are already nuts? No. We need less.

I received my complimentary copy of Peaceful On Purpose by Joel Osteen from FaithWords in exchange for my honest review that is fully mine. This book was definitely thought provoking and even though the topic is very Christianese, it’s even more relevant for today.

Book Review · Books

Self Love Poetry

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I’ll confess the title had me thinking something vastly different. This collection of poetry is stunning, thought provoking, moving, shocking and most of all POWERFUL. I almost finished it in one day. I couldn’t stop reading. Each poem spoke to me. I wanted to pause, to highlight and take notes. I’ll have to wait till it’s released, but it’s already sitting on my Amazon wishlist. Yes, it was that great of a read.

Poetry is primal and personal. It digs into your soul like it’s a pumpkin and your guts get squeezed out, but underneath all that orange slime are seeds that take root. These seeds water your soul with hope, bravery, compassion, humor, love, acceptance and joy. This poetry won’t leave you empty. It will inspire to keep going.

I received my complimentary digital copy of Self Love Poetry by Melody Godfred from Andrew McMeel Publishing, care of NetGalley. The views are mine and of my own choice. If you enjoy poetry I highly recommend this book of poetry. I think it will make a great gift this upcoming fall.

Book Review · Books

How To Age Without Getting Old

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I’m generally in the middle age era of my life and it feels like it arrived in the blink of an eye. One moment I was in grade school, next dealing with the dramas of high and next thing I know I’m feeling old. Funny thing is I don’t look my age thanks to not wearing much makeup and not being a fan of sunbathing. Needless to say reading a book about aging without getting old sounds just right for me.

In Joyce Meyer’s newest upcoming book she delves into the topic of aging and the ways in which she’s come to terms with getting older. She provides stories from her own life and offers Biblical encouragement. At the end of each chapter is a quote by an anonymous person on wisdom they want to offer.

I may be considered too young for this particular title, but actually I think I’m just right for it, or gasp a little behind on needing it. This book makes you think over your life and the choices you’ve made and are making. This book helps encourage me to want to live a long life. That’s why I love talking with elderly people. They offer wisdom from living a long full life.

I received my complimentary copy of How To Age Without Getting Old by Joyce Meyer from Faith Words. The views are my own and my choice. If you are a fan of Joyce Meyer or are just hearing about her I highly recommend this little volume.

Book Review · Books

Always Yours, Bee

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Bee and James had the perfect life with their three boys. That is, until the day James insisted on biking to work on a very rainy day. That choice ends in an accident. Bee blames herself as she was focusing on hearing back from her book agent. She did offer to drive her husband, but of course he insisted he’d be fine. James survives, but the mental aftermath is ugly.

What is it like to suffer a TBI (traumatic brain injury) and PTSD? What is it like to care for the love of your life who can’t recall their psst and know they are supposed to love you, but it feels brand new to them? Bee has to deal with these changes in James. She gets so wrapped up in helping her husband, Bee doesn’t realize her own depth of trauma. Follow Bee and James on their journey to work through recovering from Jame’s accident.

This memoir is intense, gripping, emotionally draining, insightful, mesmerizing, and hard to put down. I’ve never read Mia Hayes before, but after reading this gut wrenching memoir of hers, I want to read her other books.

I received my complimentary digital copy of Always Yours, Bee by Mia Hayes from Finn Star, care of NetGalley. The views expressed are mine and of my own choice. Thank you NetGalley for always providing memoirs that become all time favorites. This is one of them. I can’t wait to grab a copy when it comes out. Thank you Mrs. Hayes for opening your heart and past, so that others could see there is hope on the darkest of nights.

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42 Reflections On My Life

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1. Being a preemie survivor is a lot to mentally digest.

2. I have no shame in eating pizza with a fork and knife.

3. Were braces worth the four years of headgear torture?

4. Being a bookworm has always been a comfort to me.

5. I always seem to be drawn to the underdogs because I, myself am one.

6. Fashion is overrated compared to wearing comfy clothes.

7. Being babysat by a lady who rakes inside her house? Priceless.

8. First kisses sometimes don’t count.

9. Friendships come and go like the seasons.

10. I never allowed myself to be a classic girlie girl after my brief stint liking the color pink in 1st grade.

11. I don’t like odd numbers.

12. I can be very chatty or quiet depending on my mood.

13. I love writing poetry.

14. My first celebrity crush at 8 was Fergie.

15. I got to be in the audience of “Kids Inc.” as a preteen. That experience opened my eyes to the cruelties of Hollywood.

16. As a little kid I would dutifully look in the newspaper for any local movie auditions. I wanted to be an actress.

17. I still recall how much I loved my cheesy Punky Brewster high tops that had her hologram face on the side.

18. I loved being a tomboy with enjoying He-Man and Transformers.

19. As kid I had a big imagination (still do) and enjoyed exploring a ditch behind my house. Loved to make up stories to go along with random items found.

20. I was a dare devil as a little kid. I’d ride on my plastic imitation big wheel and fly down the street. It was a very steep street. I’m shocked I was allowed to.

21. I always wonder what my life would be like with a different name.

22. When I was 8 I wanted to be a pastor.

23. I was quite the legalist as a child. No drinking soda in the car.

24. I lived through the Loma Prieta earthquake. Once you’ve experienced one you never forget.

25. Reaching 100 books read in one year is a great feat, but a lonely one.

26. I will always love Six Feet Under, This Is Us, The Fosters and Gilmore Girls.

27. Trees energize me as does rainy/cloudy weather.

28. I can’t stand dresses, but a part of me longs to wear 40’s/50’s vintage style dresses.

29. Worst haircut of my life was a buzz cut.

30. Coming out to oneself is the hardest thing EVER.

31. I’ve always felt ‘different’ from others since I was a little kid.

32. As a small child I was always nervous hearing planes flying overhead, afraid of b**bs. I didn’t watch war movies growing up, but then fell in love with WWII in 4th grade. A few years ago watching a documentary on that topic I had a flashback of living in that time period. That freaked me out. Maybe there is something to past lives.

33. I believe God is BIGGER than any Holy book.

34. I was bullied for being so small and short.

35. I have a Booktube addiction.

36. I studied with a JW for four months. Fascinating to be challenged to explain my faith and why I believe what I do. Sadly that friendship’ was not legit.

37. I don’t know why cults are fascinating to research (JW, Mormonism, etc). I think it’s the desire to belong and have your life scripted for you. I think there’s a comfort in that and a feeling of safety.

38. I am learning in life it’s not about how many friends you have, but the quality of friends, those you can truly trust with your life.

39. I can’t believe I’ve been a book blogger for over 3 years.

40. I never expected to love reading fiction from Thomas Nelson Publishers.

41. I’ve always felt awkward about receiving gifts, like I’m not worthy to.

42. LOVE is not cookie cutter.

Book Review · Books

Take The Day Off

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The word Sabbath brings a few images to my mind: church and quiet time on Sunday afternoons to nap, or read. The Sabbath for me always equals Sunday’s. It involved going to church, Sunday school then later having a quiet time in my room. I love how my mom would always bring a little snack of candy to much on for my quiet time.

Mr. Morris talks about how we have lost the art of observing the Sabbath, to take a FULL day to rest. I think sadly the church has turned the term Sabbath into a bad of word of sorts. Instead of being viewed in a positive light it’s dreaded because it equals boring with nothing fun planned. It’s not meant to be boring, but a time to recharge and be refreshed. Socially we are so addicted to being productive nonstop we don’t know how to just sit still. The author reiterates a number of times it doesn’t have to be chained to Sunday. The point is take 1 day off to rest up.

I learned some new things about the Sabbath through reading, Take The Day Off. I started this book with my preconceived biases about this very churchy topic, but this book changed my view in a way I wasn’t expecting.

I received a complimentary copy of Take The Day Off by Robert Morris from Faith Words. The views are mine and of my own choice. If you want your view of the Sabbath altered then go grab a copy. This book is readable, relatable and will give you a new perspective on a challenging topic.

Book Review · Books

The Transformation

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Everyone deals with some kind of trauma in their life. No matter how large, or small all types of trauma are valid. The Transformation by James Gordon, MD is a book about ways we can tackle our trauma in healthy, creative, engaging ways.

Some examples provided in this book are:

Drawing a picture of how you see yourself now, then drawing how you see yourself with your current challenge, and finally drawing a picture of what you’ll look like once that challenge is resolved. I’m not the greatest artist, but I love to doodle and I think this is a great way to visualize how we see our trauma and how we can unearth a solution by being artistic.

Dancing and shaking stress off. I am not a dancer. I have to two left feet and always feel weird dancing in front of people. I believe this idea could help us get exercise, allow ourselves to be silly and literally shake away our trauma.

Visualization can sound woo woo. This example is a way for you to discover your place that you feel safe at/in. I recall doing a visualization exercise in around 1st grade. It does take some decent imagination, but as an adult I have visualized I was laying in a warm bath and it helped me relax so I could fall asleep at night.

Finding your guide to give you guidance. This idea is one I’m personally not comfortable with.

Be part of a healing circle or group. This suggestion made me think of going to PFLAG, which is similarly run. It’s confidential and laid out in a similar way where you can share if you want to, but not required and there’s no pressure to.

Creating a genogram. To me a genogram is like a family tree that you detail with personal information about who you are able to, to see any generational themes. I think this example is fascinating as it helps us see how our ancestor’s choices affected our lives today.

There are other great examples, but I want you to be inspired to read the whole book. I am glad I read this book. It’s not long in length, but thick in information. I would recommend reading it with a highlighter and note tabs because there is a lot to absorb. I received my complimentary copy of The Transformation by James Gordon, MD from Harper One, care of FSB Associates. The views are mine and of my own will.