Lennon and King‘s pasts had my heart aching, but watching them fall back in love was everything. The chemistry? Off the charts. They tried to move on, but that first love was sticking around like glitter.😂🤣😂😂

#5JoysFriday @DebinHawaii

1. Strawberry Shortcake at the concert in the park.
2. Trying to wear sneakers after foot surgery.😩
3. Upcycled a side table that I found at a yard sale.
4. New tattoo. Pretty Poodle.
5. Scored those outdoor chairs for the low on Marketplace.

“The Names" is a powerful debut—honest, emotional, and deeply real. It explores identity, legacy, and how small choices can change everything. The stories and characters stick with you well after the last page. The domestic violence can be very descriptive at times.

The storytelling is compelling and genuine, featuring a strong female protagonist who navigates challenges with poise and confidence. It's evident that the author conducted thorough research and every detail is grounded in real events.

What really got me was how the story flipped on me. At first, I was all in for Brooklyn. I thought she was just misunderstood and catching a bad break. I was rooting for her heavy. But as things played out, I started seeing her true colors. She wasn‘t who I thought she was, and it became clear she had no real plans to change up. That switch-up had me hooked even more. It was real and unexpected.

Andy Andrews knows how to break down truth and human potential in a way that really hits home. Through smooth, powerful storytelling, he delivers deep messages in a way that‘s easy to vibe with. This book keeps it real, simple, yet full of meaning and leaves you feeling hopeful and inspired.

@DebinHawaii #5JoysFriday
1. Picked up free chairs today that I saw at the curb.
2. Ordered a purse that was on sale.💁🏽‍♀️
3. Received my first retirement gift. Harlem Rhapsody.
4. My foot is healing well after surgery. I can now were slides.

This was my first time reading anything by Abby Jimenez. I‘m not big on rom-coms, but this one was actually pretty dope. It had a little suspense mixed in too. I‘ll definitely check out one of her full books next. Suggestions on which one to read next?

This book was everything. Hendrix is real as hell and stays true to herself — I was here for it. Her crossing paths with Maverick was kinda wild timing-wise, so I totally get why she was hesitant at first. But ayeeee, MAVERICK? That man is everything. He knew Hendrix was the one from the jump and didn‘t hold back ‘at all‘ letting her know. I soooo loved this book.

It‘s a decent read, but short on real details—mostly boyfriend drama, not the scams. Lacks self-awareness, with more complaining about her sentence and throwing shade at family than any real reflection or growth.

#5JoysFriday @DebinHawaii
I had surgery on my foot Wednesday. I‘m on basic bed rest for a week.
No more setting my alarm! Officially retiring at the end of the month! 🙌🏽 32 years in education.
Friends have been sending me take out while I‘m recovering.

Ella Simone, a rising R\&B star, was in the middle of a messy divorce from her producer husband when she crossed paths with Miles, an MLB player. Their chemistry was instant. Miles was that real one—solid, loyal, and exactly what Ella needed to get through the storm. I loved this one.

I loved this book! It hit on so many real-life vibes—dealing with fam, friendships, marriage drama, situationships, chasing careers, all that. The way everything came together was smooth, with the perfect mix of laughs, mess, and heart.

This book is a great read—easy to connect with and full of practical tips to help improve your life. It really speaks to people of all ages and leaves a lasting impression. I highly recommend it—it‘s definitely one to keep on your shelf.

Snoozer. Maybe a mathematician would like it. I stuck with it hoping I‘d get something out of it.😫The author rambles without solid facts, contradicts herself, and mislabels issues as big data. It feels more like bandwagon rhetoric than real analysis.

I loved this book—her journey, lessons, and realness really spoke to me. The tips on boundaries and self-worth were so useful, especially for young adults.

This book was *fire*! Once I picked it up, I couldn‘t stop. It had me smiling, laughing, blushing, mad, and lowkey emotional—in the best way. The chemistry between the characters and Elle‘s writing pulled me all the way in. The details had my imagination running wild.

This is a truly inspiring read, filled with valuable lessons. It offers an honest and heartfelt look at building a billion-dollar business, showing the unwavering passion, hard work, and courage needed to overcome the challenges along the way. This company is based in my hometown. It started in Mississippi and moved to my hometown.

This book encourages embracing sensuality, pleasure, and self-love, which boosts confidence and even helps with tasks like cleaning. Go figure. LOL

*Bent but Not Broken* is a powerful read set in Depression-era Alabama, following Naomi Simmons as she endures hardship and mistreatment but remains devoted to her family. Despite her struggles, she finds strength, grace, and support from loyal friends who help her move forward. Naomi is a remarkable character whose resilience and sacrifice left me rooting for her throughout.

This book was a refreshing change from my usual darker urban fantasies. Set against the ocean and marine life, it was a delightful escape. If you enjoy a sweet, second-chance romance, I highly recommend it.

A fast-paced urban read, this story follows two young people shaped by their environment. Lacking positive guidance, they find love but spiral into a dangerous lifestyle with few good outcomes. I read it in one sitting because I couldn‘t put it down.

This story grabs you from the start with its raw, gritty intensity, pulling you into a world where every detail feels alive. It‘s a relentless, heart-pounding ride that‘s impossible to put down.

The title comes from a story adults tell to encourage girls to behave. *How the One-Armed Sister Sweeps Her House* is a tough read, with its bleak portrayal of violence against women, sorrow, and poverty. Well-written and gripping, it's also intense and heavy.

I enjoyed it so much! It was a perfect way to start the year and provided a real eye-opener into the lives of people in Jamaica.

The book does an amazing job describing Jamaican life, food, scenery, and settings. And the food! It had me salivating, I could almost taste it all!

I enjoyed this audiobook. It‘s perfect for teens and young adults, but for someone my age it was a great pep talk. A reminder for me to embrace self care. I needed this reminder.

Meh. I thought it was a self help book, but it gives memoir vibes. She basically tells how her Christianity helped her through her martial problem, her husband‘s affair.

Light, easy read. I enjoyed it. Actual title wasn‘t available on Litsy.

@wanderinglynn #49bdaygiveaway
Happy birthday Lynn!

@bookish_wookish
My holiday swap! I can‘t wait to start this book! Thank you @BarkingMadRead
#littlechristmasswap

The cadence and depth of this book were absolutely gripping. It delved into some uncomfortable, even ugly truths that made me cringe at times, yet it was impossible to look away. The rawness of the narrative only made its impact stronger, leaving me with a lingering sense of reflection. It's a powerful read, one that doesn't shy away from difficult realities, and it sticks with you long after you turn the last page.

@bookish_wookish Sent me package today. It should arrive Tuesday.

#goodreads #yearinreview
I slacked o lot this year on my reading. I‘m going to try and pick it back up in 2025.

#5JoysFriday @DebinHawaii

I had a great week back after break.
A coworker had a black Santa waiting for me on Monday. Along with a black Nutcracker.
Another coworker found 2 black Nutcrackers for me at Dollar Tree plus section. She gifted me the vintage ornaments.
A retired coworker made those goodies for me. Rolos on pretzel with a M&M.
My craft for the week.

#littlechristmasswap @bookish_wookish

My package came today.🤗

#5JoysFriday @DebinHawaii

I‘m a crafter, and I worked on 2 pieces for myself. I think they turned out great.

My sweatshirt yesterday for Thanksgiving!

Now I can watch the movie. ☺️ My first read by this author and I thoroughly enjoyed it

#5JoysFriday @DebinHawaii

1. My new Nutcracker Mug.
2. Fun in the Digital Media Lab with my work besties.
3. I added a train onto my Christmas Tree.
4. Today marks the start of my week off from school for Thanksgiving!🙌🏽

His story was sad. I‘m glad I listened to the audiobook.

#WondrousWednesday @Eggs

1. Snowy day, & schools canceled. I also enjoy reading on my deck in the spring/summer.
2. Reel by Kennedy Ryan. It comes out 11/12/24

#5JoysFriday @DebinHawaii

1. The excitement on my great-nephew‘s face when he saw my Christmas lights.
2. My Halloween costume.
3. My door decor on my classroom door.
4. My dog celebrated his 10th birthday on Halloween.
5. My Christmas train I made out of wood crates.

Loved this memoir. He was very transparent and entertaining.

#Two4Tuesday @TheSpineView

1. Peach
2. Withe the Fire on high by Elizabeth Acévedo

This memoir offers a profound exploration of life after a brain injury, skillfully addressing complexities beyond the physical implications. It delves into themes of identity, relationships, and resilience, ensuring a compelling and engaging narrative that captures the reader's attention throughout. I enjoyed it.

I enjoyed this book. I‘m looking forward to meeting the author and hearing her speak next month.

This one had good ideas for incorporating AI in the classroom.

Good poems in this book.

#5JoysFriday @DebinHawaii
1. My favorite candy was on sale and I had a coupon!??
2. I had a viral infection so I ordered my favorite Acài Bowl.
3. I won that glass mug at our PD today.
4. I went to the Bengals vs Commanders game on Monday Night.
5. My former coworker gifted me 2 coffee mugs. She set them on my porch.

#WondrousWednesday @Eggs
🍁Fashionista, DIVA, teacher
🍁🍁Giver, dog lover, Greatest aunt
🍁🍁🍁Olivia in Summer on the Bluffs by Sunny Hostin.