Tag: blogger

How to Start a TBR Book Cart (and Make It Actually Fun)

Leave a comment

If your “to be read” pile is slowly taking over your nightstand, desk, and every flat surface in your home, it might be time for a TBR book cart. Not only is it a practical way to organize your next reads, but it also turns your books into a little reading experience—one that feels intentional, aesthetic, and motivating instead of overwhelming.

Here’s how to start a TBR book cart and make it something you’re excited to use.

1. Choose Your Cart (Style Over Perfection)

First things first: you need a cart. A three-tier rolling cart is the classic choice, but anything with shelves works—bar carts, small bookcases, or even a sturdy crate setup. Don’t stress about finding the “perfect” one. The goal is function and fun, not Pinterest pressure.

Pick something that fits your space and your vibe. Minimalist? Go neutral. Maximalist reader? Bright colors, please.

2. Curate, Don’t Overload

The secret to a successful TBR cart is curation. Instead of dumping every unread book you own onto it, choose a manageable number you’re genuinely excited about. Think of your cart as your current reading season, not your entire backlog.

A good rule of thumb:

  • 5–10 novels
  • 1–2 non-fiction books
  • 1 “mood read” wildcard

This keeps your cart inspiring rather than intimidating.

3. Organize by Vibes

This is where the fun really starts. Instead of organizing by author or genre, try organizing by mood:

  • Cozy reads
  • Dark academia
  • Short and fast-paced
  • Emotional damage (you know the ones)

You can also dedicate each tier to a theme or reading goal. It turns choosing your next book into a mini ritual instead of a stressful decision.

4. Add Bookish Extras

Your TBR cart doesn’t have to be just books. Make it a reading station by adding:

  • Bookmarks
  • Highlighters or tabs
  • A reading journal or notebook
  • Cozy socks or a small candle (unlit, of course)

These little touches make the cart feel personal and encourage you to actually pick up a book.

5. Rotate Regularly

To keep things fresh, rotate your cart every month or season. Swap out books you’re no longer in the mood for and add new ones you’re excited about. This helps prevent reading slumps and gives you permission to DNF or postpone books without guilt.

Your TBR is not a chore—it’s a menu.

6. Make It a Reading Ritual

Finally, turn your TBR cart into part of your reading routine. When you finish a book, choose the next one from the cart. When you’re feeling stuck, browse it like you’re in your own tiny bookstore.

The more intentional you make it, the more fun reading becomes.

A TBR book cart isn’t about reading faster or conquering your backlog—it’s about creating a space that celebrates your love of books. Make it cozy. Make it chaotic. Make it yours. 📚✨

DID YOU ENJOY WHAT YOU JUST READ? IF YES, THEN SUBSCRIBE TO THE BLOG, GIVE THE POST A LIKE, OR LEAVE A COMMENT! NEW POSTS ARE UP EVERY TUESDAY & THURSDAY!

An Easy, Healthy Lunch to Bring to Work (That You’ll Actually Look Forward To)

Leave a comment

Packing lunch for work doesn’t have to mean sad salads or hours of meal prep. The best work lunches are simple, filling, and easy to throw together—especially on busy mornings. This go-to lunch checks all those boxes and keeps you energized for the rest of the day.

The Simple Solution: Mediterranean Chickpea Wrap

This lunch is fresh, flavorful, and packed with nutrients, and it comes together in about 10 minutes.

What You’ll Need:

  • 1 whole-grain wrap or pita
  • ½ cup canned chickpeas, rinsed and mashed
  • A spoonful of hummus or Greek yogurt
  • Chopped cucumber
  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Spinach or mixed greens
  • Feta cheese (optional)
  • Olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper

How to Make It:

  1. In a bowl, mash the chickpeas with hummus or yogurt.
  2. Add a drizzle of olive oil, a squeeze of lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. Layer the chickpea mixture onto your wrap.
  4. Top with veggies and feta if using.
  5. Roll it up, wrap it in foil or parchment, and you’re good to go.

Why This Lunch Works

  • Healthy and balanced: You get plant-based protein, fiber, healthy fats, and plenty of veggies.
  • Keeps you full: Chickpeas and whole grains provide steady energy without a mid-afternoon crash.
  • Easy to prep: You can make the filling ahead of time and assemble the wrap in minutes.
  • Portable: No reheating required—perfect for busy workdays.

Make It Your Own

This wrap is incredibly flexible. Swap chickpeas for grilled chicken or tofu, add roasted veggies, or change up the sauce with pesto or tzatziki. Once you find a version you love, it becomes a reliable lunch you’ll want to repeat.

Eating well at work doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes all it takes is one easy, satisfying lunch to make your day run a little smoother. 🥙

DID YOU ENJOY WHAT YOU JUST READ? IF YES, THEN SUBSCRIBE TO THE BLOG, GIVE THE POST A LIKE, OR LEAVE A COMMENT! NEW POSTS ARE UP EVERY TUESDAY & THURSDAY!

A Quick, Healthy After-Work Snack That’s Perfect for Winter

Leave a comment

After a long workday, especially in winter, the last thing most of us want to do is cook something complicated. You’re tired, it’s cold, and dinner might still be an hour or two away. That’s where a warm, nourishing snack can make all the difference—something quick to make, comforting, and actually good for you.

The Go-To Winter Snack: Warm Apple Cinnamon Yogurt Bowl

This snack feels indulgent but is incredibly simple and balanced. It combines warmth, protein, natural sweetness, and cozy winter flavors—all in under 10 minutes.

What You’ll Need:

  • 1 apple (any kind you like)
  • Cinnamon (and a pinch of nutmeg, optional)
  • Plain or vanilla Greek yogurt
  • Optional toppings: chopped nuts, granola, or a drizzle of honey

How to Make It:

  1. Chop the apple into small pieces and place them in a microwave-safe bowl.
  2. Sprinkle with cinnamon (and nutmeg if using), then microwave for 1–2 minutes until soft and fragrant.
  3. Add a generous scoop of Greek yogurt on top.
  4. Finish with your favorite toppings for a little crunch or extra sweetness.

Why This Snack Works

  • Warm and comforting: Perfect for cold winter afternoons when you want something cozy.
  • Balanced: The yogurt provides protein, the apple adds fiber, and the toppings give healthy fats or carbs if you need more energy.
  • Quick and customizable: You can switch up the fruit, spices, or toppings depending on what you have at home.

Make It a Ritual

Instead of reaching for something random or overly processed, turning your after-work snack into a small ritual can help you unwind. Put on some music, make your bowl, and take a few minutes to relax before jumping into the rest of your evening.

Sometimes the best snacks aren’t about being fancy—they’re about being warm, easy, and satisfying. And in winter, that’s exactly what we need. ❄️🍎

DID YOU ENJOY WHAT YOU JUST READ? IF YES, THEN SUBSCRIBE TO THE BLOG, GIVE THE POST A LIKE, OR LEAVE A COMMENT! NEW POSTS ARE UP EVERY TUESDAY & THURSDAY!

💋 Top 2026 Makeup Trends to Try Now

Leave a comment

🎨 1. Soft, Skin-First Complexion

In 2026, makeup increasingly looks like your skin — only better. Think lightweight bases that let freckles and natural texture peek through, with a soft, diffused finish rather than heavy coverage. “Cloud skin”—a blurred, soft-focus complexion finish—is rising over extreme glass-skin or matte finishes. This gives skin dimension without masking it, and feels fresh and breathable on the face.

👉 What to try: sheer foundations, weightless powders, and cream products that melt into the skin.

💄 2. Blurred & Halo Lips

Gone are the days of sharp lip lines. The halo lip trend—where color is concentrated in the center and softly diffused outward—creates the illusion of fuller, pillowy lips without harsh edges. This soft, effortless look is becoming the way to wear color in 2026.

👉 Tip: Use a creamy liner or bronzer to contour around your lips, blend outward, then add your favorite shade just in the center.

💫 3. Playful Pops of Color

Even as natural beauty stays popular, bold color is making a statement: bright blue eyeliners, two-toned lips, mismatched nails, and graphic liner shapes are all on the rise. This trend leans into fun, creative expression—perfect for anyone who sees makeup as art more than routine.

👉 How to wear it:

  • Blue or neon liner for an eye-catching twist
  • Two-tone lips for a fashion-forward finish
  • Vibrant shadow that breaks the “neutral only” mold

✨ Bonus Trends: Artistry Meets Individuality

💡 Cream bronzer and blush: These trending formulas blend seamlessly into skin for a fresh, healthy glow.
💡 Monochromatic makeup: Use one color family across eyes, cheeks, and lips for a cohesive, modern look.
💡 Subtle metallics: A hint of sheen—like metallic in the inner eye corner—adds dimension without drama.
💡 Eco-friendly beauty: Sustainable and refillable makeup is gaining traction as shoppers prioritize planet-friendly products.

💡 Trend Takeaway

2026 is all about balance. You can lean into soft, skin-like makeup or choose to express your creativity with bold color and artistic details. Whether you’re into minimalist beauty or dramatic flair, this year’s trends give you permission to make makeup your personal form of expression. 💖

DID YOU ENJOY WHAT YOU JUST READ? IF YES, THEN SUBSCRIBE TO THE BLOG, GIVE THE POST A LIKE, OR LEAVE A COMMENT! NEW POSTS ARE UP EVERY TUESDAY & THURSDAY!

3 Ways to Make Your Birthday the Most Fun for You

2 Comments

Today’s my birthday and decided it would be the perfect time to write about how to have the best birthday ever!

Birthdays come with a lot of expectations—big plans, perfect photos, and everyone having a great time. But the truth is, the best birthdays aren’t about doing what you should do. They’re about doing what actually makes you happy. Whether you love quiet moments or all-out celebration, here are three simple ways to make your birthday genuinely fun and meaningful.

1. Plan Around What You Enjoy (Not What’s “Expected”)

Your birthday doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. If you’d rather spend the day reading, gaming, baking, or watching movies than throwing a big party, that’s completely valid. Think about what makes you feel relaxed or excited and build your day around that.
Love being social? Plan a group activity you actually enjoy. Prefer low-key vibes? Schedule solo time or something cozy. When the day reflects you, it instantly feels better.

2. Give Yourself Something to Look Forward To

One of the easiest ways to make your birthday special is to plan at least one thing you’re genuinely excited about. It doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated—maybe it’s your favorite meal, a new book or game, a trip to a favorite place, or a small tradition you only do once a year.
Having that one highlight gives your birthday a sense of anticipation and makes the day feel intentional instead of just another date on the calendar.

3. Let Go of Pressure and Be Present

Not every birthday will be perfect, and that’s okay. Things might not go exactly as planned, and people might not always show up how you expect. Try to let go of the pressure for everything to be “the best ever” and focus on enjoying what’s happening in the moment.
Take photos if you want, but don’t stress about documenting everything. Laugh when things go wrong. The memories you’ll treasure most often come from being present, not from everything going smoothly.

At the end of the day, your birthday is about celebrating you—not meeting expectations, trends, or traditions that don’t feel right. Do what makes you happy, honor where you are in life, and let yourself enjoy the day in your own way. 🎉

DID YOU ENJOY WHAT YOU JUST READ? IF YES, THEN SUBSCRIBE TO THE BLOG, GIVE THE POST A LIKE, OR LEAVE A COMMENT! NEW POSTS ARE UP EVERY TUESDAY & THURSDAY!

Book Review: Hazelthorn by CG Drews

Leave a comment

PLOT SUMMARY:

Evander has lived like a ghost in the forgotten corners of the Hazelthorn estate ever since he was taken in by his reclusive billionaire guardian, Byron Lennox-Hall, when he was a child. For his safety, Evander has been given three ironclad rules to follow:

He can never leave the estate. He can never go into the gardens. And most importantly, he can never again be left alone with Byron’s charming, underachieving grandson, Laurie.

That last rule has been in place ever since Laurie tried to kill Evander seven years ago, and yet somehow Evander is still obsessed with him.

When Byron suddenly dies, Evander inherits Hazelthorn’s immense gothic mansion and acres of sprawling grounds, along with the entirety of the Lennox-Hall family’s vast wealth. But Evander’s sure his guardian was murdered, and Laurie may be the only one who can help him find the killer before they come for Evander next.

Perhaps even more concerning is how the overgrown garden is refusing to stay behind its walls, slipping its vines and spores deeper into the house with each passing day. As the family’s dark secrets unravel alongside the growing horror of their terribly alive, bloodthirsty garden, Evander needs to find out what he’s really inheriting before the garden demands to be fed once more.

GRADE: B+

REVIEW:

I experienced Hazelthorn as an audiobook, and narrator Michael Crouch did an excellent job bringing the story to life. His performance captured the gothic, moody atmosphere perfectly, and his character voices were distinct and engaging throughout.

I’ll admit that I didn’t really like the main character, Evander. While I understood the reasons behind his intense anxiety, his inner monologue often felt repetitive and grating. I was also not especially drawn in by the book’s opening, which initially presents itself as a murder mystery—an element that turned out to be far less interesting than the story’s true strengths.

What I did love was the writing itself. Drews’s prose is lush and atmospheric, vividly capturing the emotional pain endured by both Evander and Laurie. The concept of the deadly garden was fascinating, and I appreciated how its existence affected not just the main characters but everyone around them. Although the villains fell into the familiar trope of cruel, wealthy antagonists, it didn’t detract much from my enjoyment.

Overall, I liked the ending and found the book memorable for its mood and writing style. I’m definitely looking forward to reading more from this author.

*Thank you so much to NetGalley & Recorded Books for the audiobook copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!

DID YOU ENJOY WHAT YOU JUST READ? IF YES, THEN SUBSCRIBE TO THE BLOG, GIVE THE POST A LIKE, OR LEAVE A COMMENT! NEW POSTS ARE UP EVERY TUESDAY & THURSDAY!

Happy New Year & 2026 Goals

Leave a comment

I accomplished quite a lot last year with releasing TWO BOOKS: Into the Dread Unknown: Women in Horror Anthology and PANICO! Marie Antoinette’s Journey During the Reign of Terror.

My screenplays won several awards:

Killer Shorts Quarterfinalist – “Comets Tear the Skies”

Killer Shorts Honorable Mention – “Resting Bitch Face”

Creative Screenwriting Pilot Screenplay Competition Semifinalist – “CRUSH”

International Clown Film Festival Finalist – “Bloom Rot”

My poem “Summer’s Gone” appeared in the HWA Poetry Showcase XII.

My novella I WANT CANDY will be translated into Spanish and released in Oct. 2026.

2026 GOALS:

-Complete horror feature screenplay

-Find a publisher for my thriller TEAR YOU APART

-Release my gothic horror novella THIS FEVER CALLED LIVING (coming out in March!)

-Find a publisher for my two lit pieces, “A SICILIAN FUNERAL” and “DADDY”

-Begin a new writing project (novel or novella)

-Put together another Women in Horror Anthology

-Read 50 books

What are some of your goals going into the new year?

DID YOU ENJOY WHAT YOU JUST READ? IF YES, THEN SUBSCRIBE TO THE BLOG, GIVE THE POST A LIKE, OR LEAVE A COMMENT! NEW POSTS ARE UP EVERY TUESDAY & THURSDAY!

🎆 New Year’s Eve Festivities: How to Ring in the New Year With Style, Snacks, and Sparkle

2 Comments

New Year’s Eve is basically the grand finale of the year—and it deserves a little drama (the fun kind). Whether you’re going all out, staying in, or doing a bit of both, New Year’s Eve is about celebrating fresh starts, good memories, and staying up way past your usual bedtime.

So grab something bubbly (sparkling cider totally counts), throw on something shiny, and let’s talk New Year’s Eve fun.

🥂 Start the Night With Something Sparkly

If there’s one night to lean into the glitter, it’s this one.

  • Sequins? Yes.
  • Metallics? Absolutely.
  • Fancy pajamas for staying in? Also acceptable.

Even if you’re just at home, dressing up makes the night feel like an event—and honestly, we deserve that energy.

🍾 Food That Feels Fancy (But Is Actually Easy)

New Year’s Eve food is all about snacks you can graze on all night.

  • Mini appetizers and finger foods
  • Charcuterie boards (aka cheese doing the most)
  • Bite-sized desserts

Anything you can eat with one hand while holding a drink in the other is a win.

🎶 Set the Mood With a Playlist

Music = instant party vibes.
Mix in:

  • Throwback favorites
  • Current hits
  • One dramatic countdown song for midnight

Bonus points if there’s spontaneous dancing in the kitchen.

🎉 Fun Ways to Celebrate (No Matter Your Plans)

There’s no “right” way to do New Year’s Eve—just your way.

  • Hosting a party: Games, confetti, and a photo corner make it memorable.
  • Staying in: Cozy blankets, movies, and snacks all night long.
  • Virtual celebrating: Group calls, countdowns, and shared playlists still bring the fun.

It’s about connection, not location.

✨ The Magic of the Countdown

There’s something special about those last 10 seconds of the year. The cheering, the laughter, the “Wait—what year is it?!” moment. Whether you’re surrounded by friends or ringing it in quietly, that countdown always feels hopeful.

Midnight isn’t just a time—it’s a reset button.

🎇 Looking Ahead

After the confetti settles and the clock strikes twelve, there’s a fresh year waiting. New plans, new memories, and new opportunities to make life a little sweeter.

So raise a glass, make a wish, and step into the new year with excitement and a smile.

Here’s to late nights, bright beginnings, and a year that surprises us in the best way. 🥂✨

DID YOU ENJOY WHAT YOU JUST READ? IF YES, THEN SUBSCRIBE TO THE BLOG, GIVE THE POST A LIKE, OR LEAVE A COMMENT! NEW POSTS ARE UP EVERY TUESDAY & THURSDAY!

☕ The Cozy Holiday Drink You’ll Want to Sip All Season Long

Leave a comment

There’s something about the holidays that makes us crave maximum cozy. Soft blankets, twinkly lights, fuzzy socks… and a warm drink in your hands that makes you sigh a little after the first sip. You know the feeling.

Today, I’m sharing a holiday drink that’s easy, comforting, and feels a little bit special—without requiring barista-level skills or 17 ingredients. Meet your new winter obsession.

✨ Cozy Cinnamon Vanilla Latte (No Fancy Equipment Required)

This drink tastes like a hug. A warm, cinnamon-scented, vanilla-sweet hug.

What You’ll Need:

  • 1 cup milk (any kind works!)
  • 1 cup brewed coffee or espresso
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1–2 teaspoons sugar, maple syrup, or honey (to taste)
  • Optional but highly encouraged: whipped cream

☁️ How to Make It:

  1. Heat your milk in a small saucepan (or microwave—no judgment here).
  2. Stir in cinnamon, vanilla, and sweetener until everything smells amazing.
  3. Pour brewed coffee into your favorite mug.
  4. Add the warm milk and give it a good stir.
  5. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon if you’re feeling festive.

That’s it. You’re officially in cozy mode.

🎄 Why This Drink Feels So Holiday-Perfect

  • It’s warm and comforting without being overly sweet
  • It smells like Christmas (seriously)
  • You can make it while still wearing pajamas

It’s perfect for early mornings, late-night movie marathons, or that quiet moment when the house finally settles and you just exist for a second.

✨ Fun Ways to Make It Extra Special

  • Swap coffee for hot chocolate for a caffeine-free version
  • Add a dash of nutmeg or ginger for extra holiday spice
  • Use oat milk or vanilla almond milk for a bakery-style vibe

☕ Final Sip

This cozy cinnamon vanilla latte isn’t about perfection—it’s about slowing down and enjoying the season, one warm sip at a time. Light a candle, turn on your favorite holiday playlist, and pretend your kitchen is a cute little café for a moment.

You deserve it. 🎶✨

What’s your go-to cozy drink during the holidays?

DID YOU ENJOY WHAT YOU JUST READ? IF YES, THEN SUBSCRIBE TO THE BLOG, GIVE THE POST A LIKE, OR LEAVE A COMMENT! NEW POSTS ARE UP EVERY TUESDAY & THURSDAY!

🎄Last-Minute Christmas Gifts Anyone Would Love (Yes, Even the “Impossible” People)

Leave a comment

We’ve all been there. The calendar says December 24, your brain says panic, and your gift list is still suspiciously long. Don’t worry—last-minute doesn’t have to mean last-thought. These gifts are easy to find, crowd-pleasing, and guaranteed to make you look like you had this all planned weeks ago. 😉

Let’s save Christmas, shall we?

🎁 1. Cozy Everything

You can never go wrong with cozy.

  • Ultra-soft blankets
  • Fuzzy socks (bonus points for fun patterns)
  • Plush slippers

Perfect for: literally everyone who enjoys comfort (aka everyone).

☕ 2. A Mug That Has Personality

A mug isn’t just a mug if it says something funny, cute, or relatable.

  • “Main Character Energy”
  • Pet-themed mugs
  • Minimal aesthetic designs

Pair it with hot chocolate packets or tea bags for instant gifting magic.

📚 3. Books That Feel Personal (Even If You Bought Them Today)

Books are thoughtful and easy to grab.

  • A trending novel
  • A beautiful coffee-table book
  • A journal or guided planner

Pro tip: Write a short note inside the cover—it instantly levels up the gift.

🕯️ 4. Candles = Universal Happiness

Candles are the unsung heroes of last-minute gifts.

  • Clean, neutral scents (vanilla, linen, eucalyptus)
  • Cute jars that double as décor

They smell good, look good, and feel fancy without much effort.

🎧 5. Tech Accessories Everyone Uses

Small tech gifts are lifesavers.

  • Wireless chargers
  • Phone stands
  • Headphones or earbud cases

Useful gifts = gifts people actually love.

🎨 6. Fun Little Hobbies in a Box

Help them discover a new interest!

  • Paint-by-number kits
  • Puzzle sets
  • DIY craft kits

It’s a gift and an activity—perfect for cozy winter days.

🍫 7. Snacks, But Make Them Fancy

Food gifts are always a win.

  • Chocolate assortments
  • Gourmet popcorn
  • Snack samplers

Tie it with a ribbon and suddenly it’s a “curated experience.”

🎟️ 8. Experiences (AKA Gifts Without Wrapping Paper)

Running out of time? Experiences to the rescue.

  • Movie tickets
  • Concert or event passes
  • Online classes or subscriptions

Wrap it in a card and call it intentional.

🎄 Final Thought

The best gifts don’t have to be expensive, rare, or perfectly wrapped. A little thought, a dash of fun, and a sprinkle of holiday spirit go a long way. And remember—no one needs to know you bought it yesterday. 😉

Happy gifting, and may your holiday be merry, bright, and stress-free! ✨🎅

DID YOU ENJOY WHAT YOU JUST READ? IF YES, THEN SUBSCRIBE TO THE BLOG, GIVE THE POST A LIKE, OR LEAVE A COMMENT! NEW POSTS ARE UP EVERY TUESDAY & THURSDAY!