The Hermitage of Montecasale

A statue of Saint Francis overlooking the Dolomite mountains on the property of the Hermitage of Montecasale. The simple stone architecture of the Hermitage Since my visit to Tuscany, Italy, I am often asked about the most memorable place I experienced there. While the trip was filled with many unforgettable views and moments, visiting the … Continue reading The Hermitage of Montecasale

Juniper Level Botanic Garden

My husband and I are always looking out for nearby locales we can explore together and feed my photography habit. As long-time residents of the city and frequent explorers of local parks, museums, and arboretums, it is hard for us to find previously undiscovered places. A few weekends ago, we were thrilled to find out … Continue reading Juniper Level Botanic Garden

The Guidal: Discovering Puracordis by Roxy Eloise

4 stars In this YA fantasy book, 16-year-old Aurora lives in the Boulderfell Institute where she and the other adoptees must adhere to a strict set of rules. The story starts with Aurora moving up from the Mustards, the children’s section, to the adult quarters (Navies). Her move makes her eligible for the Unity ceremony, … Continue reading The Guidal: Discovering Puracordis by Roxy Eloise

San Diego, California

La Jolla, California Traveling has always been a priority for our family of three. As someone from a small town who had barely left my home state before going to college, I wanted my daughter to grow up knowing through first-hand experience that the world is vastly bigger than her immediate day-to-day surroundings. Beginning when … Continue reading San Diego, California

It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover

5 out of 5 stars On the emotional evening of her father’s funeral, Lily Bloom meets a handsome stranger on a rooftop, and the two strangers have some shocking conversation. Fast forward a few months, Lily runs into the enigmatic Ryle Kincaid again, and the two cautiously embark on an intense relationship.  Soon after she … Continue reading It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover

What I Learned in My First 6 Months of Blogging

This month, I am celebrating my 6-month anniversary as a book and photography blogger. Sixty posts, 2,012 views, and 880 visitors later, what do I have to show for this milestone? Well, I’ve had fun, explored my creative side, and made lots of connections with other writers, book lovers, bloggers, and photographers. But, most importantly … Continue reading What I Learned in My First 6 Months of Blogging

Shaken No More by Jacqui Morrison

3 stars This women’s fiction/romance novel is about one woman's fight to overcome several past traumas and find love, success, and happiness.  Shaken No More After leaving her abusive husband, Meredith Golden meets Paul and the two begin a romantic relationship. Things seem to be going well for Meredith in her career and in her … Continue reading Shaken No More by Jacqui Morrison