Love, Lies and Family Ties by Florence Keeling - Cover Reveal

Blurb: 

A heartwarming, feel good romantic comedy. ‘I absolutely adored this book. It gave me all the feels! A charming read full of warmth and heart.’ ***** Kim the Bookworm

Bea Winters is in desperate need of a fresh start. Being bullied at work is not her idea of fun and she longs to follow her dream of becoming a published author. When an advert appears in her local paper to work in a publishing house in the sleepy village of Bloomsdale, it sounds too good to be true.

She strikes up an instant friendship with gorgeous aspiring author, Eddie Richards and her dashing millionaire boss Scott Summers. But all isn’t as it seems in the sleepy village of Bloomsdale.

How does the local clairvoyant know her name? Who does the little black dog that keeps appearing belong to and why does she keep bumping into the mysterious Charlie?

As she starts to unravel the truth, it seems that everyone in Bea’s life is keeping secrets.

An uplifting romantic comedy that will warm your heart – perfect for fans of Cathy Bramley, Milly Johnson and Carole Matthews.

Purchase Link - https://amzn.eu/d/40GUHk8

Author Bio – 

I was born in Coventry but now live in Nuneaton. I married the love of my life over 20 years ago and we have two almost grown up children. We share our lives with two mad dogs as well.

Writing is a great passion of mine, that one day I hope to be able to turn into a career but until that day comes, I will continue working in accounts and payroll.

Social Media Links – @KeelingFlorence

https://x.com/KeelingFlorence 

Until next time,

The Book of Kindness by Egor Klopenko - [Book review]

Book Details:

Title: The Book of Kindness

Author: Egor Klopenko

Genre: Children's books, Children's literature

Publisher: Independently Published

Print Length: 32 pages

Reading Age: 3 to 9 yrs

Source: A review copy from the author

Blurb:

The Book of Kindness by Egor Klopenko is a heartfelt selection of poetic stories for young children, using vivid imagery and simple language to introduce themes of compassion and generosity. Through memorable scenes and characters—like the magical imaginary birds called “kindwings” fluttering around town spreading kindness, and the little girl, whose seeds of kindness turn into a flower—Klopenko helps young readers understand empathy in a relatable way.

 The book emphasizes family dynamics, presenting universal figures such as “Mommy,” “Daddy,” and “the little girl” or “the little boy” to ensure any child can see themselves reflected in the stories. A key strength is Klopenko’s ability to connect shared themes across different tales. This subtle storytelling approach helps young readers build cognitive skills by recognizing how similar values appear in different contexts. 

Thoughtful, universal, and filled with warmth, The Book of Kindness offers more than just heartwarming tales; it fosters early learning, empathy, and a growing understanding of kindness in the world around them.

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

Purchase Link:

Amazon

My Review:

This is the first book in the series of 'The World of Kindness", but can be read and enjoyed separately. I loved this amazing collection of short stories, which explains kindness in simple words with multiple examples.

This is a good bedtime read for kids, especially those aged above 5 years. We need kindness in this world to reduce mental health issues and make our Earth a better place for our future generation. 

I love the way the author explains different ways of showing kindness, lifting up others, and making others cheerful. The illustrations are excellent. Beautiful pictures show every act of kindness so that it's easy for kids to imagine how a kind world would be. The narrative is easy-going and simple. The book cover is good, but not as good as the illustrations inside.

I would definitely recommend this book as a gift option for kids aged 5 to 10 years.

My Rating: 5/5

PS: I received a review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Until next time,

Hiking Gorman Falls with Kids: A Fun Day Trip to Texas Hill Country

Located about two hours northwest of Austin, Colorado Bend State Park is a scenic gem near San Saba, Texas. Nestled along the Colorado River, this rugged wilderness offers over 35 miles of hiking and biking trails, winding through canyons, waterfalls, and limestone cliffs—perfect for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers alike.

Gorman Falls from Tinaja Overlook

How to Reach?

Address: 1201 Colorado Park Road, Bend , TX 76824

Park Hours: 6 AM to 10 PM 

Entry Fee : $5 per person, kids under 12 yrs - free

This state park offers a hike to a cave, waterfalls, natural springs, fishing, camping, and swimming in spring-fed pools.

Best Time to Visit?

Since it's Texas, the best time to visit is not on a sunny day :-) Trails are not shaded. The waterfall looks amazing after rain, but the trail might be slippery after rain. 

A cloudy day would be good to enjoy the scenic view of the Colorado River, hike Spicewood Canyon, or enjoy Gorman Falls.

Where to Stay?

Austin is only 2 hrs away. That would be a good place to stay, but there are some cabins on Lake Buchanan and unique stays and resorts around the area.

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Here are some options:

 

Things to Do?

Hike Gorman Falls and Tinaja Overlook :

This is the most popular hike in the park. This 70-foot waterfall is accessible by 3 3-mile round-trip trail. There is a restroom available at the trailhead. 

Here is our guide for a family-friendly hike to Gorman Falls. The first half of the trail is flat and easy. After 0.5 miles into the trail, there is a path that leads to Tinaja Overlook. It's 0.75 mile leading to a viewpoint of Colorado Bend, adding 1.4 miles out and back, but it is really worth the extra miles. There is a deck with a place to sit, relax, and enjoy the view. 

If you can brave it, you can carefully walk to the rock, which gives a clearer view. You can see Gorman Falls from this point as well. It's amazing. That viewpoint is Instagram worthy :-)

Another popular but difficult trail is the Tie Slide Trail, 2.3 miles one-way. This connects to the Tinaja Overlook.  

Beautiful view of Colorado River

Tinaja Overlook

Then, we joined our main trail again. Another 0.4 miles is easy. The last part of the trail is steep with rocky terrain. There are chains on the sides of the trail to hold on to while climbing down to the falls. This is the hardest part, and kids need more help. 

The waterfalls are beautiful. They are spread over multiple rocks, and one part of the falls is covered with trees. It is not easy to capture the falls on photos, but this needs to be enjoyed personally. 

There is a cool spot to sit, have snacks, and take a break. Heading back, of course, is a little tough as we have to climb up at least for 0.5 miles. It is easy after that. 

The trail took 2 to 3 hrs, I guess, for us with photo and snack breaks. We went the day after a heavy rain, so the waterfalls were gushing with force. 

By the way, our return hike was not smooth. Unfortunately, there were lightning and thunderstorms followed by heavy rain. Fortunately, we reached the car safely, but completely drenched. 

Gorman Falls

The green moss

Swim in Spicewood Springs:

Enjoy a series of spring-fed pools and refresh on a hot summer day along the Spicewood Springs Trail. Spicewood Springs Canyon Trail is a 3.8-mile loop. 

You might need water shoes for this trail, as there are a few water crossings. Spicewood Springs Trail is 1.3 miles out and back. We couldn't do it due to heavy rain, but I definitely recommend it. 

Try the Cave tour if you are up for an adventure!

This website allows you to book cave tours. They offer tours for different difficulty levels. There are around 400 caves in this area. These caves are not regular tourist-friendly ones. You should be ready to crawl, squeeze, climb etc., 

A headlamp/ flashlight, sturdy shoes are required, and you should be ready to get dirty and wet :-)

There is also an activity called Bat Hike, organized by park staff.

Visit Fiesta Winery

Address: 18727 W FM 580

Lometa, TX 76853

This local winery offers wine tastings, pizza, and cheese boards. With $25, you can experience a complimentary wine and taste your choice of 6 wine samples.  This winery is only 20 minutes away from the State park. They also have large outdoor seating. 

Check here for hours. 

Image by Jill Wellington from Pixabay

So, that's about a quick trip on a weekend. How do you like it? Do let me know in the comments.

Anything else we missed in this area? Do let us know.

Until next time,

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River Place Nature Trail, Austin - All things you need to know behore you hike

If you're looking for one of Austin's most challenging and scenic hikes, look no further than River Place Nature Trail. This shady gem is not just a walk in the park—it's a full-body workout packed with elevation, steps, and beautiful nature all around.

Located in West Austin, this 6-mile out-and-back trail (yes, that’s 2,763 steps total!) is perfect for hikers who want to break a sweat, enjoy nature, and explore one of the best-maintained urban trails in the city.

At the beginning of trial

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🌿 Trail Overview

River Place Nature Trail is made up of three connecting trails:

• Panther Hollow Trail
• Little Fern Trail
• Canyon Trail

💪 If you're up for a serious workout, try the Panther Hollow + Canyon Trail combo. It's about 3 miles one way and definitely the most intense section. Expect stairs, hills, and lots of breaks!

Trail Map

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🚗 How to Get There + Parking Tips

We parked at Woodland Park, which has limited free parking but thankfully, includes restrooms and water fountains.

There are a few other entry points with street parking options if Woodland Park is full. Since the trail has multiple entrances and exits, some hikers do a one-way and call an Uber or Lyft back to the starting point—great if you don’t want to double back.

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🔥 How Hard Is River Place Nature Trail?

Let’s be real—this trail is hard! But doable.

🏃‍♀️ Experienced hikers can likely complete it in 2.5 hours

🚶‍♂️ Beginners or families (like us) might need 3 to 3.5 hours with breaks

Even though it’s challenging, the trail is shaded for most of the way, making it bearable even in warmer weather.

Tip: Hiking with kids? Bring more water, rest often, and pack snacks. Our family (with elementary and middle school kids) did it in about 3 hours and 20 minutes, with plenty of stops.

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💵 Entry Fee Info

Depending on the day and time, there may be a $10 per person fee.

✅ Free after 3 PM or on weekdays

💰 Fee usually applies on weekends/ busy days

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🧳 What to Bring

Don’t hit this trail unprepared! Here's what you’ll need:

• 🥤 At least 1.5 liters of water
• 🍎 Snacks or energy bars
• 👟 Sturdy hiking shoes with good grip
• 🧢 Sun hat (a few exposed areas)
• 🐍 And stay alert—we saw a rattlesnake just a few feet off the trail!

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🌄 What to Expect on the Trail

• The first 0.25 miles are easy and flat—a nice warm-up
• The trail follows a shaded, tree-lined path with springs and streams
• After that, it’s stairs, elevation gain, and even some viewpoints
• Just when you think it’s over, more steps await! The middle section gets tough.
• The return hike feels quicker since you know what to expect.

We started our hike around 5 PM and finished by 8 PM. Late afternoon is ideal—not too hot and fewer people on the trail.

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🧼 Facilities

• 🚻 Clean restrooms at Woodland Park
• 🚰 Water is available before you start
• 📵 Limited cell signal in some areas, so download a map ahead of time or take a photo of the map at the beginning of the trail

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Final Thoughts

If you're up for a challenge and want to explore one of the best nature trails in Austin, River Place Nature Trail should be on your list. It’s tough but incredibly rewarding, with peaceful nature, birdsong, and enough steps to make your legs sore the next day.

Perfect for fitness lovers, nature enthusiasts, or anyone looking to escape the city without leaving Austin.

Accommodations in Austin:

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Until next time,

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10 Best Travel Accessories for Moms in 2025

As moms, travel can be both exciting and chaotic. Whether juggling with toddlers, planning road trips, or finally taking that solo getaway, having the right gear makes all the difference. 

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Based on personal experience and hours of research, here are the 10 best travel accessories every mom should pack in 2025.

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

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1. Packing Cubes:  

Stay organized with sets of packing cubes. They help separate kids' clothes, your outfits, and essentials like diapers or meds. No more digging through a messy suitcase!

2. Collapsible Water Bottles: 

Hydration is key, especially when you’re on the go with children. Choose BPA-free, space-saving bottles that clip onto backpacks or diaper bags.

3. Travel Stroller: 

 Lightweight and foldable strollers like the Babyzen YOYO or GB Pockit are lifesavers in airports and city tours.

4. Portable White Noise Machine: 

Help your child (and yourself) sleep better in unfamiliar hotel rooms or Airbnbs with a compact white noise machine.

5. Multi-Port USB Charger:

 Charge your phone, tablet, baby monitor, and Kindle all at once. This is a must-have for long travel days.

6. Travel-Friendly First Aid Kit:

A first aid kit includes bandages, wipes, fever strips, and basic medications. Pre-packed kits are great, but customize them for your family’s needs.

7. Hands-Free Baby Carrier:

Ideal for airport security, hikes, and navigating tight spaces. Look for ergonomic and breathable designs.

8. Compact Travel High Chair:

A clip-on or foldable high chair ensures safe and stress-free mealtime wherever you go.

9. RFID-Blocking Travel Wallet: 

Keep passports, credit cards, and boarding passes secure and organized. Choose a design with multiple slots and zipper protection.

10. Travel Journal or Digital Notepad: 

Jot down travel memories, your child’s firsts, or keep track of expenses. A beautiful way to document your journeys.

Final Thoughts:

These travel accessories have saved me countless headaches and made trips more enjoyable, whether it was a quick weekend road trip or a cross-country flight with my kids.

What are your must-haves? Share in the comments!

Until next time,

Mind & Body Boost: 3 Morning Rituals You Can Do in 3 Minutes

Let’s be real—mornings can feel like chaos. You’re getting ready for the office, getting kids ready for school, preparing breakfast, and already running through your mental to-do list. 

But what if you could hit the reset button and give your mind and body a little love—all in just three minutes? Yep, just three. 

Photo by Pixabay: https://www.pexels.com/photo/purple-petal-flower-surrounded-by-green-plants-during-daytime-66288/

These quick and easy morning rituals are made for busy folks like you who want to feel more centered, energized, and ready to take on the day, without adding stress or eating up time.

Whether you're off to work, chasing after kids, or just trying to get out the door in one piece, these tiny habits pack a powerful punch.

3 Morning Rituals You Can Do in 3 Minutes

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1. 3 questions to ask before you set out for the day

Ask these 3 questions every day to set your mood. You can do it immediately after waking up, or you can keep a journal and just write answers after coffee or after brushing your teeth, or before driving to the office. Or you can simply think of these questions and answer them in your mind. 

What is the most important task that I want to do today / looking forward to?

The answer can be very simple, like I am looking forward to dropping my kid off at school. Looking forward to the bright Sunrise. Looking forward to doing gardening in the evening or going for a walk.

Or my important task for today is the presentation at the office / signing up my kid for soccer before the enrollment closes. 

Photo by Arun Thomas: https://www.pexels.com/photo/journal-book-1156683/

What are you grateful for today/ at the moment?

I am grateful for my mood today / good health/ financial stability. Can be anything, small/big.

Image by Bayzid Islam Farib from Pixabay

What is that one quality you want to improve now / today?

It can be anything like - I want to be kinder and respectful to others. I want to be fit. I want to motivate people around me. 

The point is not to judge, not to think of an action plan, but to think of the current day and based on the emotions of that day. 

It doesn't mean you should improve your quality/behavior in one day. It just means you are giving importance to getting better every day.

Even when you don't believe in the concept that the whole world conspires to bring you good, you will see that this answer will have an impact on your life.

I will explain how this works. 

If I answer question #3 every day that I want to become fit, I might go for a walk at least one day a week. Since it's my first thought every day, I try to do something related to that thought. Slowly, it becomes a habit to take care of my health, as it is the same thought that I am focusing on first. 

What do you think? Try and let me know. It only takes a minute of your time every day.

By the way, this 3-question format is from the podcast 'Feel Better, Live More' by Dr. Rangan Chatterjee.

2. Cheer yourself up 

After you wake up, when you stand before the mirror to brush your teeth, give yourself a hi-fi and say - It is a good day. 

Seems fun, right? Just follow this tip like a ritual, no need to believe in any concept.

Photo by Pixabay: https://www.pexels.com/photo/two-yellow-emoji-on-yellow-case-207983/

 

Instead of getting validation from others, hi-fi-ing ourselves boosts our confidence and encourages us to celebrate ourselves. This is a research-proven method that is a powerful motivator. 

You don't need any extra time for this. Do this while brushing.

This tip is from the most popular podcast by Mel Robbins.

3. Enjoy the morning sunlight 

If you have a habit of drinking coffee/ hot water with lemon/ tea, use this time to do it outside - patio/porch. Exposure to Morning sunlight has many benefits, like improved mood, boosting the immune system, and better sleep at night. Of course, the benefit of Vitamin D as well.

Make a habit of staying in Sunlight every day, simply while having coffee/watering plants. Recommended time on a sunny day is 5 to 10 mins, and it's 20 mins on a cloudy day to get the full benefit from Sunlight.

But, if that's not possible, 1 min every day before you start your chores/ run to the office is better than no exposure to sunlight. What do you say? Is it that tough to incorporate this into your daily busy schedules?

This tip, which also improves energy and produces the happy hormone Serotonin, is from the Huberman Labs podcast. 

Photo by <a href="https://stockcake.com/i/peaceful-morning-ritual_2339266_1397188">Stockcake</a>

So, that's about 3 Morning Rituals you can do in 3 minutes, and get the benefit of boosting your mind and body.

PS: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or professional advice. Always consult a qualified expert before making health or lifestyle changes.

Until next time,

🌅 My Morning Ritual Starter Kit

Boost your mind and body with these hand-picked essentials I use every day!

• 🧘‍♀️ Non-Slip Yoga Mat for Daily Stretching
• 📓 Gratitude Journal – Start Your Day with Purpose
• 🖊️ Smooth Gel Pens for Journaling
• 👟 Comfy Walking Shoes – Perfect for Morning Walks
• 💧 Stainless Steel Water Bottle – Stay Hydrated On-the-Go
• ⏲️ Meditation Timer – Enhance Your Mindfulness Sessions

🔗 As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Thanks for your support!