Woman reading a book in an armchair with two cats nearby and a flower garden visible through the window

Books That Captured My Heart: A List

The writing prompt invites readers to share their most frequently read book. The author expresses a preference for three beloved series: The Lord of the Rings, The Chronicles of Narnia, and The Cat Who… series. They encourage community interaction and recommend civil discourse while sharing literary favorites.

Laptop displaying map and code, open book, compass, and backpack on rock with winding path and sunset in background

The Non-Traditional Path: Why I Am a Lifelong Learner

This post reflects on the author’s non-traditional education journey, embracing lifelong learning despite personal struggles with self-criticism related to incomplete degrees. The author emphasizes learning beyond formal education through various experiences, reading, and online courses. She encourages others to appreciate their unique paths and continuous growth.

Book cover of Tailchaser's Song by Tad Williams, featuring a fantasy illustration of a cat.

Dear Mr. Williams: What happened to Fritti Tailchaser?

The writing prompt asks readers which book deserves a sequel, inspiring a discussion about “Tailchaser’s Song” by Tad Williams. The author reflects on their love for the story, detailing Fritti Tailchaser’s quest to find his missing companion, Hushpad, and expresses a longing for a sequel to explore Fritti’s further adventures and unresolved storylines.

A young girl reading a book titled The Chronicles of Willow Creek with a sleeping orange and white cat beside her on an armchair

Free Book Program for Kids (0-5 years old) in Illinois

Parents in Illinois can enroll children aged 0-5 in Dolly Parton’s “Imagination Library Program,” which offers free, age-appropriate books. Funded by the state and community organizations, this program aims to provide 60 books by kindergarten. As of early 2026, over 97,000 children are enrolled and have received nearly 1.6 million books.

I am grateful for those who create Beauty.

#ProjectZen #Day21 #GratitudeProject I am grateful for those who create Beauty. For every book I have read. For every song I have heard. For every dance, film, and play I have seen. For every painting and photograph I have studied. I am grateful to all who create Beauty. Without their creative expression, the voice given…