February 2022- What did I listen/read?

This month flew by relatively fast! I still remember Christmas not too long ago! I drove a lot during my daily commute so I have been listening to podcast episodes and music! I enjoyed listening to the episodes! I also read lovely children’s books that I recommend for children. It is crucial that children read books about our history and their ancestors’ history!

Books I read so far this year:

I like the colorful and unique illustration in this book. I really like the fact that author Gloria Amescua wanted to put the spotlight on the indigenous people of Mexico before the Spaniards conquered and stole the land and the resources. I recommend this book for those who want to learn more about the indigenous history in Mexico and this book really highlights the beautiful culture and language. It is evident that Amescua put her time and research into this children’s book. Before reading this book, I have never heard of Luz Jiménez. Jiménez was a famous model and educator. She was from a Nahua family whose first language was Nahuatl (an indigenous language still spoken today, but it is a dying language).

Click on links for more information:

https://www.abramsbooks.com/product/child-of-the-flower-song-people_9781683357384/

https://www.wnyc.org/story/saving-endangered-language-one-tamale-time/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luz_Jim%C3%A9nez

https://theworld.org/stories/2018-03-20/meet-do-luz-jim-nez-forgotten-indigenous-woman-heart-mexico-s-cultural-revolution

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nahuas

Author Carole B. Weatherford shared this essential story that should not be forgotten vainly. It’s about a story of a wealthy African-American neighborhood who was targeted by bigots simply because of their well-earned wealth and success in the 1920’s. I recommend this book because I did not learn this back when I was in school.

In addition, I like the illustration. The late illustrator, Floyd Cooper did a wonderful job with the illustration and the background scenes. This children’s book won the Coretta Scott King award! There is a free guide for educators who wish to share this book with their students! (click here)

Before reading this book, I have never heard of Temple Grandin. I am not fully familiar with the process of transporting livestock to the slaughterhouses until I read this book. This is worth your time because we often eat hamburgers or hot dogs, but we are not aware of how livestock are treated before they are slaughtered for meat. That is where Temple comes in. Temple has autism and she is very observant. She can emphasize with the livestock and she wants the cows to feel at peace moments before they die. Temple designed the path so that cows will not feel confused nor panic when they are going to an unfamiliar area (the slaughterhouse). Author Patricia B. Demuth also talked about Temple’s childhood and her secondary education and accomplishments. Temple’s life is a remarkable example showing that people with autism can succeed. There are no barriers for people with autism!

Podcast episodes I listened so far this year:

I remember reading James 1:20 which was mentioned in this podcast which states that “Human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.” If you struggle with controlling your temper and reaction to certain situations, go listen to this podcast while you are driving for a hour or more.
I highly recommend this episode because we all face unwanted or desired changes in life. Or we may face an unforeseen outcome, but keep in mind that God already knows our future. He already knew what will happen so He wants us to know that He is our Restorer. He is our Redeemer. He will make things right. He will help us to get back on the right track. When we face changes, we may feel worried or unsure as to what to do next. The hosts mentioned in this episode that God is our Shepherd and He will guide us on the right path. He will make sure that we do not stray off. I know these changes are unexpected and I pray that God will help you to trust Him even when things seem uncertain right now.
This episode is so relatable and this topic is similar to what has been in my prayers for a while. Can people really change? Can I change? Can they change? Often we want that person to change, but as time goes on, we start to feel like giving up on that person. The hosts of this episode reminded us that God can change people. He can change people’s hearts. I think, if I recall (but I’m not sure), the hosts said that God can remove a person’s heart of stone and give him or her a soft heart (or the hosts said “…give them hearts of flesh”)? Nothing is too hard for God. Nothing is impossible to God! I pray that God will help me to become a wiser and kinder person as I get older.

My skincare products I used recently:

I used this firming Black Tea eye cream and I think it works! It is expensive, but I use this to prevent crow’s feet around my eyes! I also wear eyeliner and eyeshadows on my eyelids so it is important that I maintain good skin on and around my eyes.

Available to purchase at Sephora, but keep in mind it is expensive

I really like the fragrance of this facial spray. I prefer this lavender spray over the rose spray and I have the mini version in my bag and I would spray it on my face whenever I am sitting in the car. My face gets really dry and I also like that the fragrance “wakes me up” when I spray it on my face. The price of the mini bottle is not bad. IT’s $7 USD without tax.

You can buy this at Sephora too

I can’t believe it is nearly March (I’m definitely wearing green for St. Patrick’s day! And where did the time go?!). I am excited for my fun plan/event to occur (if they occur) in the next following months (my graduation ceremony and my trip to another U.S. state in the south)! And I am so ready for cold weather to end. I am also looking forward to reading “The Spanish Love Deception” by Elena Armas. I can’t wait to type my review about the novel. I love reading romantic stories and watching romantic movies.

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