Re-Reading the Throne of Glass Series

Re-Reading the Throne of Glass Series

Feb 28, 2019

I'd planned to just write a paragraph or two about my Throne of Glass series re-read + the final book in my October 2018 Quick Lit post – since that's when I re-read this series – but I just couldn't contain myself. Especially after I realized that I'd never reviewed Queen of Shadows, Empire of Storms, or Tower of Dawn here on the blog. WHAT?! Since I basically wrote an essay on what this series means to me, I'll give these books the space they deserve.

For that Light Up the Darkness blog event, Kelly, Alexa, Rachel and I re-read one book per week leading up to the release of Kingdom of Ash. I'd technically already re-read the last four earlier in the year (on audio)... but I just turned around and did it again. No regrets! You know that you're obsessed with a series when you read it twice in one year (especially when the books are long). In the discussion post that I mentioned, I wrote about things like the setting, characters, plot, etc. of this series. So I mostly stuck to the feels for this post, which means it's spoiler free!

THE ASSASSIN'S BLADE: I've read a decent number of novellas for various series, and these five are some of the only ones I can think of that were exactly what I want from that type of story. They weren't necessary in way that made me wonder "why didn't this make the full-length novel?" but they did expand on storylines that seemed deserving of a little extra attention. They introduce characters we see again later in the series, and those scenes carry more emotional weight when you have this backstory. You get to see the complex nature of Celaena's character – ruthless and arrogant but also kind and compassionate. And for readers who felt the first book didn't show off her skills, these stories give you a better idea of what she can do as an assassin. 

THRONE OF GLASS: This is my least favorite book in the series – and it's the only one that I originally rated "So Enjoyed It." It's a good introduction to the world and characters, but it only hints at what the series will become. Though I do love going back to it to see where it all started and how these characters have grown! From the hints of romance to the first moment you realize that there's a bigger mystery to be solved, you know that you're only getting part of the picture. On my first read, that bugged me. But now that I've read the series in full, I see this as the thread you pull that sets in motion in a total unraveling. And honestly, I probably like this one least because it doesn't have my favorite characters. How am I supposed to obsess over a book without Rowan in it?

CROWN OF MIDNIGHT: I credit this book with hooking me fully into this series! I don't think I'll ever get tired of this story or seeing how the stakes are raised. There's a lot of character development in this one, which I love. Plus, I love digging deeper into Erilea's past – and everything that threatens its future. This book feels like it delivers on what Throne of Glass always seemed to be lacking for me: better pacing, depth to the action, and a more detailed look at the characters. I can still remember that feeling of closing the last page and realizing I'd found a few favorite series. I'd never expected that a fantasy would so completely steal my heart! And if I had one complaint, it's once again that there's still no Rowan Whitethorn in this book. Which brings us to...

HEIR OF FIRE: My favorite book in the series – and not just because we finally meet Rowan! Though, could you blame a girl if that was why? It's a little slower than the previous books, but I love everything about it. I honestly wouldn't change a thing! There's a coming-of-age aspect to this story that makes it so special to me, and I think this marks a real turning point for the series. Everything gets more intense from this point on. New storylines, deeper emotions, higher stakes. It's all here! I know we get to see a lot of characters in this one, but I've always felt like this book belongs to Aelin. Seeing her confront her past, accept her present and move forward into the future is just unforgettable. If I could only re-read one book from this series, it would be this one.

QUEEN OF SHADOWS: My second favorite of the series! There are moments where this almost edges out Heir of Fire from my top spot, especially because it's got a slightly faster pace, but I've just got such a soft spot for that book. You know those characters that I mentioned missing in the first book? Here's the story where so many of them come to the forefront. I will always love Aelin, but I give Maas so much credit for creating a cast of characters that are all compelling in their own right. One of my favorite things about this series is that Aelin is at the center, but it's never been just her story. Even seemingly insignificant characters play crucial roles in the action! And no matter how many times I read this one, I still feel intensely emotional over so many scenes in it.

EMPIRE OF STORMS: There are so many things that I love about this installment, but it's also got a few of my least favorite scenes of the entire series in it. So, let me start with my nitpick. The romantic scenes in this one made me cringe so hard, and they felt really out of place in this series. Now, on the good stuff... Some of my favorite fight scenes are in this book! We get to see the squad working together a lot more in this story, and that's one of the most memorable aspects of it for me.  I just love when this group teams up and takes down villains together! And holy cow, THAT ENDING. If there was ever a time I regretted starting this series before it was finished, it was when I turned the last page. I needed to know what would happen next and hated having to wait! 

TOWER OF DAWN: The book I didn't know I wanted! I still remember how I felt when I heard that this novella had become a full-length book. I just wasn't that excited for it. And then I actually read it... and realized that I want to move to the Southern Continent. I love the added scope to this world and story, seeing another empire react to the threat in Erilea, and learning some truly shocking information about a villain who shall not be named. Chaol still isn't my favorite character, so the highlight was getting to know two more badass women: Nesryn and Yrene. I can see now why this story needed to be told, though I did prefer re-reading it before Empire of Storms. I feel like Empire is a better lead-in to Kingdom, even though it occurs at the same time as this book.

KINGDOM OF ASH: I read this 1,000-page book in a day, and I'm still reeling from it. There were moments that made me legitimately cry, and other much-needed moments of sass that made me laugh out loud. My favorite part of the book was how it emphasized the importance of every character to the momentum and outcome of this war. It's never been solely on Aelin's shoulders, despite what she believes. Once I was done and processed it, I did feel like it could have been shorter – which would have helped the pacing, too. But reading it in one sitting may have contributed to that impression, so I'm excited to re-read and seeing my feelings change and deepen. All in all, I very satisfying ending to a series that I've invested so much in. I'm sad to say goodbye, but so thankful for the journey.

I still can't believe that this series is over! I've spent the past six years obsessing over it – sharing all the feels with my friends, discussing where it was headed, and reliving my favorite moments with multiple re-reads. I'm so thankful for what it brought into my life, for what it's meant to me, and for all the memories I've made along the way. This series will always have a spot on my favorites shelf, and I can't wait to see what Maas does next.

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Quick Lit: October 2018

Quick Lit: October 2018

Feb 25, 2019

If you remember my Quick Lit posts from January, I'm currently catching up on several months of backlogged reviews. Whoops! I read 14 books in October, and I'm talking about 9 of them today + 1 book that I read in September. And later this week, I'll have a series review for the 5 books that aren't included here. As always, check out the Quick Lit linkup that's hosted by Modern Mrs. Darcy for more reviews and recommendations.

A DISCOVERY OF WITCHES BY DEBORAH HARKNESS – Kelly has raved about this series for years and always wanted me to read it. I gave it a shot in October, and I love that she pushes me out of my reading comfort zone! I really enjoyed the blend of history and magic, as well as the vibrant setting. I did feel the story got bogged down in too much detail, which slowed my reading pace. And the romance was a little too instant for me, but I think it will grow on me with subsequent books. I So Liked It and look forward to seeing where this series will go next.

CRAZY RICH ASIANS BY KEVIN KWAN – I broke the cardinal rule of readers: I saw the movie before reading the book. And you know what? I'm glad I did! There are so many secondary characters, and the movie helped me find that aspect of the book less confusing than I would have otherwise. The writing wasn't always my favorite, but the story and setting made this such a fun read. I loved the opulence and drama! It's a plot-driven book, and I did wish the characters were more developed. But I So Enjoyed It overall and will continue the series!

I AM I AM I AM BY MAGGIE O'FARRELL – This memoir is a series of essays about O'Farrell's seventeen near-death experiences. Seventeen?  Yeah, and I still felt that skepticism when was I was done. The concept was interesting, and a few essays were great, but the execution left a lot to be desired. The organization of stories made no sense – I wanted them to be chronological or even grouped by type. Just something to help them flow! The level of detail made the stories feel fictional, and I couldn't suspend my disbelief. I'm So Over It.

LETHAL WHITE BY ROBERT GALBRAITH – This is my new favorite book in the series! When I binged the first three books, I found myself a little conflicted: I liked the characters more with each book but the mysteries less. They got so gruesome! Then came Lethal White. It's the best of both worlds – a fascinating mystery that's never gory and such amazing character development. I couldn't put this book down, and it cemented my love for this detective and his intrepid sidekick. I'm still thinking about it months later, so I think it's safe to say I'm So Obsessed With It.

THE ROYAL RUNAWAY BY LINDSAY EMORY* – I requested this for review based on the summary, but unfortunately the summary didn't reflect the book well. It was compared to The Princess Diaries and The Royal We, but it reads more like a (boring) thriller than a romantic comedy. And that's fine, but it wasn't what I was expecting. I loved the setting and history of this fictional monarchy, but the characters all fell flat for me (as did the romance). The book was okay to pass the time, but I wanted more from it. I'd say I was So Okay With It. 

MARILLA OF GREEN GABLES BY  SARAH MCCOY* – As a huge Anne of Green Gables fan, I was thrilled when this showed up at my door. A book about life at Green Gables... before Anne? Sign me up! This was a great backstory for a beloved character, and it was a joy to be back on Prince Edward Island. McCoy remained true to the spirit of L.M. Montgomery without trying to imitate her style. I got to see a new side of Marilla but could still imagine how she became the woman we meet later. I So Enjoyed It, especially the insight into politics at the time.

COLD-HEARTED RAKE AND MARRYING WINTERBORNE BY LISA KLEYPAS – After finishing one of my favorite series, I had a major book hangover. I decided to reach for historical romance because I figured they would be a quick palate cleanser. Cold-Hearted Rake was a So Okay With It. It wasn't terrible, but the hero and heroine both annoyed me so much. Marrying Winterborne was better because the couple was more compelling, and I So Liked It . But I still prefer the third and fourth in the series, as both of these were mostly forgettable for me.

A FATAL GRACE BY LOUISE PENNY – After enjoying the first book in this series, I was excited to pick up the second book the following month. I didn't like this one nearly as much, but I can't entirely articulate why. I guessed the murderer almost immediately, but I did like the journey to understand the why and the how. My favorite part of the book was getting more of Inspector Gamache's story, and I hope the rest of the characters in Three Pines will grow on me as I continue the series. I debated the rating a bit, but I think I've settled on So Liked It.

THE GOOD PEOPLE BY HANNAH KENT – Kent's debut, Burial Rites, was one of my favorite books the year it was released. It was dark and moody, yes, but just so well written. The summary of this one appealed to me even more, but I'm sad to say that it was a disappointment overall. The bleak tone felt similar to Burial Rites, but it was just so depressing and way too long. Nothing happened, and the few things that did were pretty pointless overall. And the book wasn't even saved by the characters! I wasn't invested in them at all, so unfortunately I was So Over It.

* I received a copy of this book from the publisher for review consideration. This did not affect my opinion of the book or my review.

What have you been reading lately?

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January 2019: Recap + On My Shelves

January 2019: Recap + On My Shelves

Feb 4, 2019

Hi 2019! January felt like it lasted forever, and I think I accomplished more in the month than I have in a while. I attribute some of that to finally feeling settled in at home, and I can't wait to see what the rest of the year holds!

1. My Best of 2018 – I'll talk about this more in the blogging section, but I loved looking back at 2018 in January. It's always one of my favorite things about the end of the year and the start of a new one! It was fun to relive my reading memories when choosing my favorite books of the year, which I shared in a post.

2. Aquarium Adventure – One Friday, I woke up in the mood for an adventure. My son and I decided on the aquarium and were so happy when Nick was able to take the day off of work to join us. It was technically our son's third visit, but I think he enjoyed it more at this age and hasn't stopped talking about it since!

3. Book-Inspired Craft – We love the book Lola Dutch in our house. In one scene, she's painting with watercolors. Every time we read it, my son tells me, "I want to do that!" So, he got watercolors in his Christmas stocking, and we finally used. It was so fun, and I loved that the activity was inspired by a book we read together.

4. Cozy at Home – I had a cold that last like two weeks, so we spent a lot more time at home this past month. But it was just what we needed after the busyness of the holiday season! We played, watched movies, and just enjoyed the coziness. And one last bit of happy? I got good news at a doctor's appointment for my thyroid!

Read 20 Books | Favorites:

We Were the Lucky Ones by Georgia Hunter

Bridge of Clay by Markus Zusak

The Huntress by Kate Quinn

Daisy Jones & the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid

“We're all blessed and we're all blighted, Chief Inspector,” said Finney.
“Everyday each of us does our sums. The question is, what do we count?”
A Rule Against Murder by Louise Penny

 “Be careful. You're making hurting a habit.
Spreading it around won't lessen your pain, you know. Just the opposite.”
A Rule Against Murder by Louise Penny

 “Food was the people you cooked with, the people you cooked for, the people you ate with,
and the people you thought of as you ate. The people who made the meal what it was.”
 Love á la Mode by Stephanie Kate Strohm

“The only thing scarier than feeling so alone is fearing you’ll always feel that way,
that no one will ever see you for all the things you are, and the things you’re afraid to be,
and the person you want so desperately to become.”
Princess of Thorns by Stacey Jay

 “There are hundreds of thoughts per every word spoken, and that's if they're spoken at all.”
Bridge of Clay by Markus Zusak

 “In those days, too, I remind myself, our parents were something else.
Sure, they fought sometimes, they argued. There was the odd suburban thunderbolt,
but they were mostly those people who’d found each other; they were golden and bright-lit
and funny. Often they seemed in cahoots somehow, like jailbirds who wouldn’t leave;
they loved us, they liked us, and that was a pretty good trick. After all, take five boys,
put them in one small house, and see what it looks and sounds like: it’s a porridge of mess and fighting.”
Bridge of Clay by Markus Zusak

“Men often think they deserve a sticker for treating women like people.”
Daisy Jones and the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid

 “I used to think soul mates were two of the same. I used to think I was supposed to look
 for somebody that was like me. I don't believe in soul mates anymore and I'm not looking for anything.
But if I did believe in them, I'd believe your soul mate was somebody who had all the things you didn't,
that needed all the things you had. Not somebody who's suffering from the same stuff you are.”
Daisy Jones and the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid

“But it doesn’t seem right to me that you can feel so horrible and the other person doesn’t feel — anything.
I hate that you can think that everything’s good, you can think they mean what they’re saying —
even they can think they mean what they’re saying — but they don’t. And you give them whatever part of yourself
and it doesn’t even mean anything to them in the end. And you can’t get it back.”
Foolish Hearts by Emma Mills

I think this is the first time in months that I have something to share beyond "here's my monthly recap" in this section. As I mentioned at the beginning of this post, I felt like I accomplished so much in January! I blogged regularly, finished a lot of books, and binged some great TV shows. But I was probably lazier about doing chores around the house, so don't give me too much credit. You win some, you lose some.

Although it wasn't my first post of the month, I feel like I should start with my December 2018 recap. Even when it's late, I never want to skip it. I recapped the year, too, with my My Year In series. I talked about my favorites from 2018: Music, Movies & TV, Beauty, Books, Obsessions, and Adventures.

Alexa and I kicked off another year of The Picky Pledge, which I always enjoy. I'm excited to complete our TBR challenge again this year! I shared my ten favorite new-to-me authors, and it was actually hard to narrow down my list this time. And, in the most embarrassing admission, I finally started to get caught up on FIVE MONTHS worth of reviews. Whoops! If you're curious, here's my August 2018 and September 2018 Quick Lit posts.

I posted more regularly on Instagram in January, which was a goal of mine. Now, if only I could be more consistent about interacting with all content in my feed... I'm working on it! Anyway, this was my favorite photo from the month. Kelly and I are going to spend the entire month of February re-reading, and we're calling it #FebruaREREAD. I'm so excited to focus on revisiting some of my old favorites this month! • @soobsessedblog

Favorite Album #1: Heard It in a Past Life by Maggie Rogers
I saw someone mention this in their Instagram story and had to check it out.
It's so good! This was the main album I had on repeat in January.



Favorite Album #2: Beulah by John Paul White
This isn't a new album, but I'm just now finally listening to it. Where have I been?!
I'll always miss The Civil Wars, but I've been sleeping on John Paul White's solo stuff.

Ordeal by Innocence (2018) starring Bill Nighy, Anna Chancellor, Matthew Goode, Eleanor Tomlinson & more – I rang in the New Year in the mountains with my family, and this is the show we binged the next day. I thought it was kind of odd and overly dramatic, and the plot didn't make a lot of sense. But I enjoyed the casting at least.

Mary Queen of Scots (2018) starring Saoirse Ronan and Margot Robbie – Nick works from home, and he had a slow day in January where I was able to go see a movie by myself during my son's nap. Heavenly! I enjoyed a lot of things about this movie, though I didn't love as much as I expected. But I did have much to discuss with Kelly after.

Killing Eve, Season 1, starring Sandra Oh and Jodie Comer – I kept hearing people talk about this show on social media, so I had to check it out for myself. Nick and I were addicted! Having an eight-episode season made it so easy to binge, plus the story made it impossible to turn off. The cast's performances were basically perfection.

Peaky Blinders, Season 1-4, starring Cillian Murphy, Helen McCrory, Paul Anderson, Joe Cole, Sophie Rundle and more – This show has been in my queue for ages, and I don't know what made us finally give it a try. WHERE HAVE I BEEN? This show was amazing, and now I'm dying for the next season. Definitely another new favorite!

The Good Place, Season 1-2, starring Kristen Bell, Ted Danson, and William Jackson Harper –  After the darkness of Peaky Blinders, we needed something more humorous. We decided to give The Good Place a try (for the second time) and had fun watching it! It was enjoyable, but I sometimes find it too silly for my taste.

Book Outlet: Jane Austen by Zena Alkayat, The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan, Keep Her Safe by K.A. Tucker, The Memory Book by Lara Avery, I'll Be Your Blue Sky by Marisa de los Santos, Because of Miss Bridgerton by Julia Quinn, Seven Stones to Stand or Fall by Diana Gabaldon, and A Perfect Heritage by Penny Vicenzi

Used Bookstores: Small Great Things by Jodi Picoult, Here's to Us by Elin Hilderbrand, Ghosted by Rosie Walsh, and A Treacherous Curse by Deanna Raybourn 

Gifted: Prince in Disguise by Stephanie Kate Strohm

NetGalley for Review: The Scent Keeper by Erica Bauermister, The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren, The Flatshare by Beth O'Leary, and A Dangerous Collaboration by Deanna Raybourn

Audible (Some Credits, Some Whispersync Pricing): Outlander by Diana Gabaldon, The Cuckoo's Calling by Robert Galbraith, Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman, Son of Shadows by Juliet Marillier, Finnikin of the Rock, Froi of the Exiles and Quintana of Charyn by Melina Marchetta, I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith, The Winner's Curse, The Winner's Crime and The Winner's Kiss by Marie Rutkoski

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30 by 30

30 by 30

Feb 1, 2019

As you've probably guessed from the title of this post, I turned 30 today. Thirty, flirty, and thriving. I've only been waiting 15 years to finally say those words! I'm celebrating with my family tomorrow: pizza + 13 Going on 30 movie night, naturally. But I wanted to make the occasion today with a blog post that's been on my radar ever since Kelly did it first. I loved hers so much that I told asked her if I could do it, too. It was so fun to think about the past 30 years – the most memorable moments and the small ones that still feel so significant. As I was making my list, I noticed there were a few themes/categories emerging. So, I've grouped all 30 lessons into six general topics. Enjoy!

I could fill a whole book with all the things my mama has taught me, but here are six of my favorites:

1. If you want to do something, you'll find time for it.

This is one of the most important things I've learned, and I repeat it often. You do what you want to do. If you love something or someone, you'll make the time for it. How you spend your time shows what matters most to you. It's one of the reasons I still read so much – I'll sacrifice other stuff I enjoy to make time for the activity I love most.

2. We all have to do things that we don't want to do.
This sounds like an obvious one, but sometimes I need the reminder. We all do things that we don't really like –  annoying tasks at work, taking the dog out when it's raining, attending a million family events during the holidays, etc. I love a good vent session about these frustrations, but I try to remember they're a fact of life.

3. A real apology acknowledges you were wrong, tries to fix the problem, and asks for forgiveness. 
I can't tell you how much we heard this growing up! As the oldest of four siblings, I can attest to the fact that there were a lot of apologies exchanged in our house. My mom always told us that a real apology isn't, "I'm sorry, but..." or "I'm sorry if you felt that I..." If you're truly sorry, you take responsibility for what you did and try to repair things.

4. If you spot it, you've probably got it.

My mom once pointed out that often (not always) the character traits that bother you the most in other people are ones that you have yourself. It's been pretty true in my life! I'm usually the most frustrated by people doing things that I'm totally guilty of doing too. It's like I can see clearly in others what I'm sometimes blind to in myself.

5. Not every friendship is meant to last forever.

Some friendships are just for a season. I've had friendships end in flames and others fade away, and both are hard in different ways because it's sad to let go of someone when you've opened yourself up to them. But there's also beauty in realizing that people can come into your life when you need them most, even if they don't stay forever.

6. It's okay to not be okay.

I had a pretty wonderful childhood and adulthood, but there have been things that have happened the past few years that helped me realize that you can love and trust God but still grieve, be angry, and doubt. I've begun to see that my faith can grow in the questions and the searching, and there's no shame in needing help.

From friendships to family, I've learned a lot about relationships. Here are six things that stand out:

7. Unforgiveness hurts you more than the other person.

Holding on to bitterness towards someone feels like you're punishing them, but the only person you're hurting is yourself. That resentment takes root and can poison so many other relationships. You don't ever have to let someone back into your life, but don't let them take up room in your heart by holding on to unforgiveness.

8. It's the quality of your friends, not the quantity, that means the most.

I used to be sad that I didn't have a big group of girlfriends, but I've realized that the quality of my friendships matters more than the quantity. I'd rather have a few friends that I'm able to truly invest in and who know me well. I'd rather have one friend that I can talk about anything with than 10 where we only ever talk about one thing.

9. Have grace for other people – and for yourself. 

This is so much easier said than done, but I think this is one of my most-used phrases. I want to be someone who gives people the benefit of the doubt, who believes the best, who is quick to forgive, and who remembers that every person has their own story. And I want to extend that same grace to myself.

10. Relationships take work.
I have always been a little annoyed by the phrase "fell in/out of love" because it sounds so passive. Love is an action verb – there are feelings associated, yes, but it's a choice you make, every single day. Loving someone takes effort and requires unselfishness. You have to show up, invest, and give of yourself. You choose someone, over and over.

11. “When people show you who they are, believe them.” 
This Maya Angelou quote has stuck with me. It's a reminder to steer clear of people who show themselves to be untrustworthy. And it helps me remember that if I'm setting myself up for disappointment if I hope someone will act out of character. For example, I can't expect someone who is always blunt to provide gentle, soothing advice.

12. God is faithful, even when I'm not.

My favorite hymn is "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing," and I've always been drawn to one verse in particular: "Oh, to Grace how great a debtor / Daily I'm constrained to be / Let Thy goodness like a fetter / Bind my wandering heart to Thee." I have seen over the years how God is faithful, even when I have a wandering heart.

Can we talk about all the feels now? Here are six of the more emotional things I've learned:

13. Don't offer something if you'll resent someone for accepting.

I won't offer to do something – share something with someone, do someone a favor, treat someone to something, etc. – if I will secretly resent someone for accepting. If I offer something, I'm happy to do it and genuinely hope they will let me. It think it's unfair to the other person and to our relationship if I offer something insincerely. 

14. You are not defined by your failures.

I was a straight-A student and successful at pretty much anything I tried. And if I didn't think I'd be successful, I didn't try it. I defined myself by my accomplishments, and the risk with that is failure threatens your identity. When I failed my driver's test, it felt like a way bigger deal than it actually was... but I needed it to happen.

15. Find something that challenges and fulfills you creatively.

Whether it's your full-time job or a hobby on the side, embrace your creativity. One of the best things I've ever done was create this blog. I love what I've learned, the people I've met, the memories I've made, and the things I've brought into the world. Everyone's creativity looks a little different, so find your thing. 

16. Don't assume you don't like something if you haven't even tried it.

Whether it's food or an activity, I'm guilty of assuming that I know how I feel about something without even trying it. My brother and I still laugh about the time I told him I didn't like a certain dipping sauce only to have eat my words a  few minutes later when I actually tried it. I constantly reminding myself to be open to new things! 

17. Feelings aren't facts.

I think I've written this in a post before, but it's worth repeating: your feelings are real, but that doesn't mean they're reality. I love knowing that my emotion shouldn't completely define a situation or my reaction. Feelings are important and valid, but I need to be cautious of declaring them Truth and giving them too much power.

18. Say yes to adventure, even if it scares you.

Some of the very best things I've done in my life were because I decided to do something bold. I went on a trip to South Africa and ended up meeting the man I married. I studied abroad in Oxford and made new friends there when someone I trusted ditched me. I created this blog and started putting my words out there for all to read.

Okay, let's break up the deep thoughts with some light-hearted things that I know to be true:

19. Start each day with... a Diet Coke.
You thought I was going to say a grateful heart, right? Well, I hate to break it to you, but this is my truth. Haha! The lesson should probably be that Diet Coke isn't good for me, but we all have our vices. Chemicals over calories for me, thanks. If loving Diet Coke is wrong, I don't want to be right and you won't convince me otherwise. 

20. The cure for almost any sickness or bad mood is Pride and Prejudice – the book, the movie, or the soundtrack.

This is just Facts, y'all. Got the flu? Turn on the movie. Feeling uninspired creatively? Listen to the soundtrack. In a reading slump? Grab the book. If I'm feeling down, this story never fails to lift my spirits. I love anything and everything Austen, but Elizabeth and Darcy will always have a special place in my heart. It's my cure all for anything.

21. Don't say, "I'd never date someone shorter than me."
At almost six feet tall, I always swore up and down that I'd never date anyone shorter than me. Before a six-week trip to South Africa, all of the local people going met up for lunch. I called my mom afterward and told her, "There's the cutest guy going on this trip, but he's shorter than me so... nope." Reader, I married him.

22. Always bring a book. When in doubt, bring a backup.
You never know when you'll have time to read, and you don't want to be sitting somewhere wishing that you'd brought a book. With technology now, you can technically always have lots of books in your small device. But since you won't always have a signal, I think it's better to be prepared. And if you're bringing one book, what's one more?

23. If you can't fall asleep, tell yourself a story.
I can't remember how or why it started, but I've been doing this since high school. At night, I have a hard time quieting my mind. I think of what I didn't get done that day, projects I need to start, stuff I wish I hadn't said five years ago... You get the idea. Instead of counting sheep, I tell myself a story. It helps me focus and fall asleep.

24. I don't believe in exercise now, but I'll probably regret that later.

Here's how I want to spend NONE of my time: working out, walking, or being physical in basically any capacity. It was only my love for Kelly that convinced me to climb Arthur's Seat with her in Edinburgh. But here's something that I already know: there will come a day where I regret my lifetime of laziness. For now, I'll keep living in denial.

As a lifelong reader, you know I had to end with some of the best things books have taught me:

25. “We must see all scars as beauty... A scar means, I survived.”
Little Bee • In middle school, I had half of my thyroid removed and was left with a thick, red, raised scar. Years later, it had finally faded away and smoothed out... and then I had to have the other half of my thyroid removed. The scar on my neck is noticeable again, but I think of this quote when I feel insecure about it.

26. “Isn't it nice to think that tomorrow is a new day with no mistakes in it yet?”
Anne of Green Gables • From losing her temper to accidentally serving alcohol to her best friend, a little bit of trouble is always trailing Anne. But this question (and another Anne quote about regretting our mistakes but not carrying them into the future with us) remind me that each new day is a chance for fresh start.

27. “Every night, you write down three good things that happened to you...”

Happiness for Beginners • I've written about this before, but I started keeping a "Three Good Things" journal after reading this book. It's helped change my perspective by making me focus on and find the good. And that becomes what I remember about each day. It doesn't negate the hard moments, but it gives the good ones more power.

28. “Till this moment I never knew myself.”
Pride and Prejudice • Elizabeth says this after she realizes that she's been wrong about Darcy, Wickham, and herself. I love her sudden self awareness, especially because she's seeing her flaws. We all have moments where we're confronted by our failings, and we can ignore them or admit we need to do better moving forward.

29. “Let me be something every minute of every hour of my life.”

A Tree Grows in Brooklyn • I love the full quote, which ends: “And when I sleep, let me dream all the time so that not one little piece of living is ever lost.” We only get one life, and it passes by so quickly. I second Francie's prayer that she fully experience every moment of life, even the painful ones. I don't want to waste what I've been given.

And finally:

30. My interests may change, but I'll always be so obsessed with books.

I named by blog "So Obsessed With" because of my ever-changing obsessions. From researching a period of history to learning hand lettering, my interests can change frequently. But the one that's never changed? My love of books. They've been a constant in my life and have brought me comfort, celebration, and community. I'm so thankful!

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