One Heck of a Ride
August 24' Reflections: Navigating the Twists & Turns, August Reading Recap, + My Monthly Roundup
I never liked roller coasters. I could never do the up-side-down loopy loops, the crazy jerks and turns, the high speeds and drops — basically, anything that threatened my illusion of stability and control. I much prefer a steady, controlled cadence like that of the old, creaky, wooden rollercoasters. It may not be as thrilling, but at least I can anticipate what’s coming. I feel more stable and know what to expect.
I wish this month was one of those cozy, creaky wooden rides, but yet this month felt like the most risky roller coaster ride of my life — so many ups and downs, unexpected challenges twists and turns, that I didn’t even want to open my eyes until it was over. There were so many difficult decisions to make, so many unforeseen challenges, and transitions to plan, that at times, I felt like I got whiplash from all the changes happening at once. I shared about some of these major changes in a recent (Joy)Cap.
The Weekly (Joy)Cap
This is the (Joy)Cap where I share a weekly reflection or lesson and a roundup of links, recommendations, and everything that’s bringing me joy, inviting you to do the same. Think of this as a weekly coffee date with my close friends. ☕️💕🫶🏾 Join me on a weekly joy hunt and start receiving the (Joy)Cap by subscribing today! ✨
As we end the month, I feel like I’m still recovering. While it is slowing down, the ride isn’t over yet. I’m bracing myself for whatever challenges come with making such a monumental move. However, instead of trying to hold tightly onto the reigns, I’m challenging myself to enjoy the ride. Rather than clenching the bar and closing my eyes, I hope to pop open at least one eye, release the bar, and push back my shoulders. After all, roller coaster rides are best enjoyed when you see them as a fun adventure rather than a risky endeavor.
Books 📚
Shady Hollow by Juneau Black. This was my first fantasy read since high school that came highly recommended by my sister. It’s a cozy murder mystery series that takes place between woodland creatures in the village of Shady Hollow. I was pleasantly surprised by how much I loved this! It’s the perfect story to cozy up and settle in right before bed.
This Could Be Us by Kennedy Ryan. I finally got around to reading the second book in Kenndey Ryan’s Skyland series, and it did not disappoint! As a stay-at-home mom, I could relate to Soledad’s experiences. I loved watching how she evolved and stepped up to the plate, in devastating circumstances, to take care of herself and her kids, and as a result, came further into her own. I also appreciated how much communication and care were demonstrated in her relationship with Judah but also Judah’s co-parenting relationship with Tremaine. This book deserves every bit of hype it gets and then MORE.
It’s Elementary by Elise Bryant. This story is about Mavis Miller, a single mom who gets recruited to (reluctantly) head the PTA’s DEI committee at her daughter’s school. Things got crazy pretty quickly when the school principal and the PTA president got into it at the first meeting. So when Mavis was walking her dog later that night and saw the PTA president hauling out a large black bag and cleaning supplies into her car, of course, Mavis was skeptical assuming the worst — especially when she learned that the school principal had gone missing the next day 👀. I related to Mavis’s character and her thoughts surrounding motherhood and work and loved how this book explored these themes as they relate to black and working moms. There was also a hint of romance here, which I loved. I was excited to hear that this book would be continued as a series. I’m looking forward to the next release next year!
These were just some of my favorites. I read 17 books this month. For a full list of what I read, check out my August reading recap or my Goodreads.
August 24' Reading Recap
August was another great reading month as I wrapped up my summer reads. We capped off the month at 17 books! In this recap, I share my thoughts on the 17 books I read this month, including one I finished after recording last month’s recap. Rather than including a synopsis of each book, I will stick to sharing my thoughts to keep it as short and sweet as…
Podcasts 🎧
This episode looks at the doxological psalms and how we can leverage them to spur worship and praise in everyday moments. It is easy to look to our circumstances or even people for hope. This episode reminds us to focus on who God is and why it is good for our hearts to praise Him in all things and at all times.
If you’re in a season of waiting, this episode will encourage you. In this episode, author Mark Vroegop shares how God uses our waiting seasons to mold and shape us as He works. In addition, he shares his own struggles and tips for how you can wait well.
If you are tired, worn out, or have hit a dry patch in your faith, this episode will be refreshment and nourishment to your weary soul as Kristen Wetherell shares how we can continue to grow our appetite for God’s Word in all seasons.
August Snapshots 📸
One of my best friends and her husband popped in for a quick visit while on their anniversary trip and brought me this tea // Perusing fall decor at Hobby Lobby and saw this cute mug // Attempted to make Soledad’s viral vinaigrette (iykyk) // First pumpkin cream cold brew of the season // Charcuterie and drinks with another best friend visiting town // Cracking open Magnolia’s fall issue in bed on a Saturday morning with a pumpkin vanilla candle burning and iced coffee in hand
Throughout the month, I love to post notes, reflections, or other resources that I find encouraging or helpful. Make sure you download the Substack app so you don’t miss out on new notes, chats, and threads.
Catch up on August Posts
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Can't wait to listen to some of these podcast