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Comment and Share Challenge

Introducing the ‘Comment and Share Challenge’ on Pen by Zee!

Hello, wonderful readers!

https://track.roeye.co.nz/click?pid=4689&offer_id=331

I’m beyond excited to announce the Comment and Share Challenge on Pen by Zee! This is your chance to not only engage with the content you love but also make a meaningful contribution to the growth of this creative space.

Here’s the story behind this challenge:

As some of you know, Pen by Zee has been a labor of love—a space where ideas come alive through words, creativity flows freely, and we connect over shared passions. But dreams need wings, and mine is ready to soar! I’m working towards upgrading Pen by Zee to a paid website to unlock more features, enhance your reading experience, and take this platform to the next level. And I need your help to make it happen!

That’s where this fun and purpose-driven challenge comes in.

How Does the Challenge Work?

  1. Engage: Leave thoughtful, meaningful comments on blog posts.
  2. Share: Spread the word by sharing your favorite posts on your social media.
  3. Earn Points: Each comment and share earns you points (details below).

The person with the most points by the end of the challenge will win a mystery gift handpicked by me to spark joy and creativity in your life!

Why Join?

  • Be Part of Something Bigger: Your participation helps raise funds for Pen by Zee’s transformation into a fully-fledged website.
  • Support Creativity: Every comment, share, and small donation fuels the dream of building a platform that inspires and connects.
  • Win a Mystery Gift: Because who doesn’t love surprises?

How to Participate:

  1. Comment: Share your thoughts, ideas, or feedback on any blog post. Each thoughtful comment earns you 2 points.
  2. Share: Share blog links on your social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn). Don’t forget to tag me and also send a screen shot as I might not be very active on social media and I would not like to delay your points tally. Each share earns you 5 points.
  3. Donate (Optional): If you’d like to go the extra mile, there’s a donation link where you can contribute directly. Every $1 donation adds 10 bonus points to your score!

Dates to Remember:

  • Challenge starts: 05th of January 2025 For USA based supporters, 06th of January for New Zealand and Pacific Islands including Australia
  • Challenge ends: 20th of January 2025 For USA based supporters, 19th of January 2025 for New Zealand and Pacific Islands including Australia

The Goal

The funds raised through this challenge will go directly toward upgrading Pen by Zee into a paid website. This will allow me to provide:

  • A smoother, ad-free browsing experience.
  • Exclusive content for loyal readers like you.
  • Exciting new features and tools for creative engagement.

Join the Challenge Today!

I believe in the power of community, and together, we can make this dream a reality. So, let’s make every comment count, every share matter, and every small action create a ripple effect of positivity and purpose.

Let the fun begin! Are you ready to take up the challenge?

Stay tuned for leaderboard updates, shoutouts to top contributors, and hints about the mystery gift!

With gratitude and excitement,
Zee

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Tides of Destiny  Ch -13

Tides of Destiny

Chapter 13: The Betrayal Within

The silence in the hidden chapel was suffocating, the air heavy with the weight of revelations yet to come. Aileen stood in the dim light of her lantern, the mysterious object she had retrieved from the altar clutched in her trembling hands—a locket, tarnished with age but radiating an almost imperceptible warmth. The intricate design bore Eleanor’s initials intertwined with another: “J.M.” Aileen’s heart raced as she realized this was no ordinary artifact; it pulsed faintly, as though alive with the energy of its past.

The journal’s final entries had hinted at a betrayal, but the locket held an untold piece of the puzzle. Inside, a miniature portrait revealed Eleanor and a man with piercing eyes and a strong jawline. The detail was exquisite, but there was something haunting about the man’s gaze, as though he were staring directly at Aileen through time.

As Aileen turned the locket over, she noticed a hidden compartment beneath the portrait. Carefully prying it open, she found a brittle piece of parchment folded inside. The writing was faded but legible:

“To Eleanor, my heart and soul. Forgive me for what I must do. —J.”

Aileen’s breath hitched. What had he done, and how had it led to Eleanor’s despair and the curse? The words felt like a confession, but the answer lay just beyond her grasp.

Suddenly, the temperature in the chapel plummeted. The shadows on the walls flickered unnaturally, stretching and twisting like living entities. A low whisper echoed through the chamber, growing louder until it coalesced into a single, chilling voice.

“You shouldn’t have come here.”

Aileen spun around, her lantern casting frantic beams of light across the stone walls. The stranger emerged from the darkness, his face obscured by the hood of his cloak. His presence was as unsettling as ever, but this time, there was no cryptic warning—only a palpable threat.

“Give me the locket,” he demanded, his voice cold and sharp.

“Who are you?” Aileen countered, her voice trembling but resolute. “What is this locket to you?”

The stranger stepped closer, his movements deliberate. “That locket carries the key to a secret that should remain buried. Eleanor’s curse was born of betrayal, and you’re meddling in things you don’t understand.”

Aileen gripped the locket tighter, refusing to yield. “You’ve been following me, trying to stop me. Why? What are you hiding?”

The stranger hesitated, and for a brief moment, his façade cracked. “Because the curse didn’t end with Eleanor,” he admitted. “It continues with me.”

The revelation hit Aileen like a thunderbolt. “You’re… connected to Eleanor? How?”

Before he could answer, a loud creak echoed from above. The chapel’s ceiling groaned under the weight of unseen forces. The stranger’s head snapped upward, his expression darkening.

“She’s coming,” he whispered. “The manor won’t let you leave now.”

The ground beneath Aileen trembled, and the locket grew warmer in her palm. The whispers returned, overlapping into an incoherent cacophony. The air thickened, making it hard to breathe.

In the chaos, the stranger lunged for the locket, but Aileen dodged, clutching it protectively. “You won’t take this from me!” she shouted, her voice echoing with defiance.

The stranger glared at her, but his anger seemed tinged with desperation. “You don’t understand. The locket binds us all—to the past, to the curse. If you keep it, you’ll share her fate!”

A sudden burst of light filled the chapel, blinding both Aileen and the stranger. When the brilliance subsided, a ghostly figure stood between them. It was Eleanor, her translucent form glowing with an otherworldly aura. Her expression was a mixture of sorrow and resolve.

“You both must stop,” Eleanor said, her voice echoing as if carried by the wind. “The curse was my doing, but the betrayal wasn’t what it seemed. There’s more to the story—more than either of you knows.”

The chapel fell silent as Eleanor’s words hung in the air. Aileen looked at the stranger, their hostility momentarily forgotten.

“What must we do?” Aileen asked, her voice steady despite the fear coursing through her veins.

Eleanor’s gaze softened. “Uncover the truth. Only then can the curse be broken.”

The chapel shuddered again, the walls cracking as if warning them to leave. The stranger grabbed Aileen’s arm, his urgency undeniable.

“We have to go,” he said. “The manor won’t give us another chance.”

As they fled the collapsing chapel, Aileen’s mind raced with questions. Who was the stranger, truly? What role did he play in Eleanor’s tragic story? And most importantly, what truth lay hidden in the locket?

One thing was certain: the path ahead would demand courage, resolve, and a willingness to face the darkness that bound them all to the tides of destiny.

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Tides of Destiny Ch – 12

Chapter 12: The Echo of Betrayals

The chill in the chapel seemed to cling to Aileen’s very skin as she clutched Eleanor’s journal to her chest. Her heart raced, each beat a drumroll of anticipation. The fragmented words and cryptic warnings that she had pieced together so far painted a story of forbidden love, deep betrayal, and a lingering curse. Yet, she knew she was only scratching the surface.

The faint scent of damp stone mixed with decayed wood filled the air. The faint, ethereal glow of moonlight filtered through the cracked stained glass, illuminating the stone altar before her. Her gaze settled on the altar’s surface, where an object lay half-buried beneath a pile of broken tiles.

Summoning her courage, Aileen stepped forward. As her fingers brushed the object, a shiver traveled down her spine. It was a small wooden box, intricately carved with swirling patterns that seemed alive in the dim light. Aileen opened it cautiously, revealing a lock of raven-black hair tied with a faded crimson ribbon and a parchment folded with care.

The parchment was fragile, and as Aileen unfolded it, the edges threatened to crumble. The handwriting was elegant, a testament to a bygone era, but the words sent a chill through her soul:

“To you who find this, know that the truth is buried where the light never touches. Only the unspoken name can unlock what was lost. Beware the shadows—they are always listening.”

Aileen read the note again, trying to make sense of it. What was the “unspoken name”? What did it mean to “unlock what was lost”? Before she could puzzle further, the distant creak of the chapel doors echoed through the space.

Her head snapped up, heart pounding. She wasn’t alone.

The sound of footsteps approached, slow and deliberate. Aileen ducked behind the altar, clutching the journal and the box. Her breath was shallow as she peeked around the corner, her eyes adjusting to the shifting shadows.

A figure entered, cloaked and hooded. Their movements were deliberate, as if they knew exactly where they were going. The figure stopped at the altar, and Aileen could see the glint of something metallic—a blade?—catching the faint moonlight.

The figure spoke, their voice low and menacing. “The chapel keeps its secrets well, but not for long. The past has ways of unveiling itself, doesn’t it?”

Aileen’s pulse quickened. Was this person searching for the same answers as her? Or were they here to bury the truth further?

She shifted slightly, her foot brushing a loose stone. The sound was faint but enough to draw the figure’s attention. The hooded head turned sharply, and for a moment, Aileen thought she saw a flash of piercing blue eyes beneath the shadow of the hood.

“Who’s there?” the voice demanded, sharp and unyielding.

Aileen’s options raced through her mind. She could confront this stranger, risk everything, and demand answers. Or she could retreat and hope to learn more without revealing her presence.

Before she could decide, the figure moved with surprising speed, heading straight for her hiding place. Panic surged, and Aileen clutched the journal tighter, preparing to flee. But as the figure reached the altar, the faint sound of church bells tolled in the distance.

The figure froze, their head tilting as if listening. Aileen seized the moment, slipping out from behind the altar and darting toward the side entrance. Her breath came in short, panicked bursts as she ran, the sound of her boots on the stone floor echoing in the stillness. She didn’t stop until she was outside, the cold night air biting her cheeks.

Back at the manor, Aileen paced in her room, the journal and wooden box laid out before her. Who was that stranger? What were they looking for? And why had the chapel seemed to react to their presence, as if alive?

She flipped through the journal, seeking guidance. Eleanor’s words felt closer now, her emotions bleeding through the ink. One passage stood out:

“There are forces that bind us, unseen but ever-present. Damien warned me of the price we’d pay, but love blinded us to the warnings. Now, the manor bears witness to our mistakes.”

Aileen’s hand trembled as she closed the journal. The price Eleanor spoke of—was it the curse? And what role did the stranger play in all of this?

As she stared out the window at the moonlit grounds, she knew one thing for certain: the storm Eleanor had written about wasn’t just a metaphor. It was coming, and Aileen had no choice but to face it.

The manor’s secrets were unraveling, and the echoes of the past were growing louder, demanding to be heard. Aileen’s journey was far from over, and she had a sinking feeling that the most dangerous revelations were yet to come.

End of Chapter 12



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Outline: Tides of Destiny Journey So Far

Chapter 1: The Call to Destiny

Aileen Rose, a struggling historian, receives an unexpected inheritance: an old, sprawling manor on the outskirts of a quiet seaside town. With the promise of answers about her mysterious lineage, Aileen arrives at the crumbling estate, unaware of the secrets hidden within its walls.

Chapter 2: Whispers of the Past

As Aileen explores the manor, she uncovers remnants of its storied past, including faded portraits, an enigmatic family tree, and a locked chest. Villagers warn her of the manor’s curse, but Aileen’s determination grows when she discovers a journal belonging to Eleanor Rose, an ancestor shrouded in tragedy.

Chapter 3: Echoes in the Darkness

Strange occurrences plague the manor—flickering lights, chilling drafts, and distant footsteps in the night. Eleanor’s journal entries paint a picture of forbidden love and betrayal, hinting at a curse tied to the manor’s past. Aileen resolves to uncover the truth, even as unease grows.

Chapter 4: The Stranger’s Warning

A mysterious stranger appears at the manor, cautioning Aileen against delving deeper. He claims the curse is real and connected to Eleanor’s journal, but refuses to share more. The cryptic encounter leaves Aileen questioning his motives.

Chapter 5: The First Revelation

Aileen discovers a hidden passage in the manor leading to an underground chamber filled with dusty relics. Among them, she finds a sealed letter addressed to Eleanor, revealing a romance doomed by social divides. The curse seems tied to a lover’s betrayal.

Chapter 6: Shadows of Deception

Aileen learns of a feud between the Rose family and another powerful lineage in the town. Rumors of jealousy, greed, and vengeance surrounding Eleanor’s time deepen the mystery. The stranger reappears, this time leaving Aileen with a cryptic warning about a “debt unpaid.”

Chapter 7: The Curse Unveiled

A chilling entry in Eleanor’s journal describes a fateful night when love turned to tragedy. Eleanor’s lover was accused of treachery, leading to a betrayal that sealed the manor’s curse. Aileen begins to feel the weight of her family’s dark legacy.

Chapter 8: A Link to the Present

While exploring the manor’s chapel ruins, Aileen finds a relic—a lock of hair bound with Eleanor’s initials. It feels charged with emotion, as though it carries part of Eleanor’s story. Villagers grow wary of Aileen’s persistence, adding tension to her journey.

Chapter 9: A Haunting Truth

Aileen deciphers more journal entries, uncovering Eleanor’s plea for forgiveness and a secret she took to her grave. As eerie phenomena escalate, Aileen starts to suspect the manor itself is alive with the memories of its tormented past.

Chapter 10: The Journal’s Revelation

Eleanor’s final entries reveal the tragic culmination of her love story and the curse she believes she unleashed. Aileen is drawn into the depths of the manor, where she encounters the stranger once more, this time holding answers she desperately needs.

Chapter 11: The Hidden Chapel

Guided by Eleanor’s words and the relic’s pull, Aileen uncovers a hidden chapel beneath the manor. Within its walls lie chilling artifacts and cryptic symbols that deepen the mystery. The curse seems closer to being unraveled, but danger looms as the stranger’s motives remain unclear.

Next in Chapter 12: A Chilling Discovery

As Aileen ventures further into the chapel, a series of startling discoveries pull her closer to Eleanor’s truth and the curse’s origin. Will she uncover the manor’s darkest secrets, or will she become its next victim?

Stay tuned as the story unfolds! Read Chapter 12 on my next blog. Like, share, and subscribe to follow Aileen’s journey in Tides of Destiny.

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If Rose could talk – A poem that tells story of every working human

Photo by Samer Daboul on Pexels.com

Dear Readers,

Below is the poem that I wrote in September 2024 when I was asked by a reader on another platform to write what rose would say to working class if Rose could talk.

Please do subscribe for more posts and if you can help me get a paid website for my writing project that would be most appreciated.

If rose could talkDownload
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A Touch of Elegance with The Wild Rose: Perfect Flowers and Gifts for Every Occasion 🌹

If a rose could talk, it might share the stories of our struggles, dreams, and triumphs. Just as my poem celebrates the working human, let’s take a moment to celebrate you and your loved ones—with a thoughtful gift from The Wild Rose, your go-to destination for flowers and gifts that speak from the heart.

Why Choose The Wild Rose?

The Wild Rose isn’t just a florist; it’s an experience in thoughtful gifting. Every bouquet, arrangement, and gift box is crafted to inspire, uplift, and create unforgettable moments. Whether you’re marking a milestone, showing gratitude, or simply making someone smile, The Wild Rose has something special for every occasion.

💐 Exquisite Floral Arrangements
Imagine the beauty of fresh, handpicked roses, lilies, tulips, and more—arranged with an artist’s touch. Each bouquet from The Wild Rose is a masterpiece that conveys emotions words often cannot. From romantic red roses to vibrant mixed arrangements, every petal tells a story.

🎁 Gifts That Go Beyond Flowers
The Wild Rose doesn’t stop at flowers. Browse their selection of carefully curated gifts:

  • Luxury gift boxes filled with artisanal treats and keepsakes.
  • Personalized items to make your gift truly one-of-a-kind.
  • Seasonal specials, perfect for holidays, birthdays, or just because!

✨ Quality and Care You Can Trust
Every order from The Wild Rose is crafted with care, ensuring freshness, quality, and attention to detail. With delivery options to fit your schedule, your thoughtful gesture will arrive at the perfect moment.

Make Every Moment Special 🌟

Whether you’re celebrating a promotion, saying “thank you,” or simply reminding someone you care, The Wild Rose can help you express it all. And if you’re the one in need of self-love, why not indulge yourself with a bouquet that brightens your space and mood?

Celebrate life’s precious moments with The Wild Rose. After all, every hardworking human deserves the gift of love, beauty, and appreciation—one bloom at a time. 🌹

https://www.thewildrose.co.nz/?oid=97&affid=333

Affiliate Disclosure

Some of the links on this site are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. I only recommend products or services that I believe will add value to my readers. Your support helps keep this site running, and I genuinely appreciate it!

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First thing I want to do when new year 2025 begins

Hi my Writing and Reading Family. This is a raw blog I am writing today while I prepare and plan for new year and what I want to do in the New Year.

I wish to fundraise for KiwiHarvest https://www.kiwiharvest.org.nz/ through the collection and resale of unwanted items. This could be small electronic items or kitchenware in fair resalable condition.

In doing so I have to work on below steps. What would be your suggestion to someone who has not done something relatively big like this. I have done some smaller fundraising before but this is going to be a very different one for me. I am reaching out to ask for help either with advise or any feedback you have.

1. Define my Campaign Objectives

  • Primary Goal: Raise funds for KiwiHarvest by selling donated items.
  • Secondary Goals: Promote awareness about KiwiHarvest and encourage sustainable practices like recycling and reusing.

2. Plan the Campaign Timeline

  • Duration: Decide how long the campaign will run. I think I will give it a time of between 3 to 4 months
  • Key Milestones:
    • Start Date: Launch with a clear announcement.
    • Midpoint Check-In: Share progress and re-engage my audience.
    • End Date: Celebrate success and thank donors and supporters.

3. Identify Collection Points

  • Partner with local businesses, schools, or community centers to set up collection points.
  • Arrange pick-up services for larger items or bulk donations.

4. Create a Donation Guide

  • Specify the types of items I will accept (e.g., clothing, books, electronics, furniture).
  • Provide guidelines for item conditions (e.g., clean, functional).

5. Organize a Sorting and Storage System

  • Sort items into categories for resale.
  • Partner with storage facilities or use personal/volunteer spaces for temporary storage.

6. Choose Resale Platforms

  • Online: Sell through platforms like Trade Me, Facebook Marketplace, or local community groups. These are all local platforms to New Zealand, where I live. I am open for receiving donations from overseas if you are willing to help me with my goal.
  • Offline: Organize garage sales, pop-up markets, or partner with thrift stores.

7. Develop a Marketing Strategy

  • I would name my Campaign as: “From Clutter to Compassion”
  • Social Media: Use platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn to share my mission, showcase items for sale, and post updates.
  • Flyers and Posters: Place them in community hubs, libraries, and schools.
  • Email Campaigns: Reach out to my network and local groups.
  • Media Outreach: Contact local newspapers or radio stations to feature my initiative.

8. Engage my Network and Community

  • Volunteers: Recruit friends, family, or community members to help with collection, sorting, and sales.
  • Businesses: Seek sponsorships or partnerships, such as donated storage space or promotion through their channels.

9. Track and Communicate Progress

  • Share regular updates on the campaign’s impact (e.g., items collected, funds raised).
  • Highlight stories about KiwiHarvest to show the importance of my efforts.

10. Celebrate and Thank Supporters

  • Host a closing event or post a thank-you video acknowledging donors and volunteers.
  • Share a summary of the campaign’s success and how the funds will help KiwiHarvest.

11. Ensure Transparency

  • Keep a clear record of funds raised and items sold.
  • Share updates with donors to build trust and credibility.

I am also looking to raise some funds for myself to get a paid website, if you would like to be part of my journey towards success please do help me with what ever help you can offer for this charity initiative or for my personal website. I am only needing NZD 50 -100 to accomplish my personal goal. For the Kiwi Harvest Charity I have not set a goal yet.

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Blogroll

MasticadoresUsa // Editor: Barbara Leonhard //
Tony's Reading List
Too lazy to be a writer – Too egotistical to be quiet
Seven Sisters' Blog
Seven Sisters' Blog
Sharing my personal and professional life from the Philippines
The Chrysalis BREW Project
The Chrysalis BREW Project
Books, Reviews, and Everything Written (BREW) for you
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I read books. Sometimes, I tell you about them. My sister says I do your Book Club work for you…that may be true!
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Mindfulness – How it transforms your day

Morning Rituals: How Mindfulness Transforms Your Day

Mindfulness has been a transformative journey for me, and I’m passionate about sharing its benefits with others. Whether you’re already practicing mindfulness or considering it as part of your New Year’s resolutions, this is the perfect time to embrace a more present and intentional way of living. Let’s connect as a community of like-minded individuals on this journey of self-discovery and growth. If you find this blog helpful, I encourage you to like, share, and subscribe to spread the word and inspire others.

The way you begin your morning sets the tone for the rest of your day. In our fast-paced, always-connected world, it’s easy to jump straight into the chaos of emails, social media, and to-do lists. But what if you started your day differently? What if, instead of rushing, you embraced a mindful morning routine that grounded you in peace and clarity?

Mindfulness is the practice of being present in the moment without judgment. Incorporating mindfulness into your morning rituals can transform how you experience your day, helping you navigate challenges with grace and stay focused on what truly matters. Here are some practical steps to infuse mindfulness into your mornings.

1. Begin with Gratitude

Start your day by acknowledging the blessings in your life. Before even getting out of bed, take a few deep breaths and think of three things you’re grateful for. This simple practice shifts your mindset from stress to abundance and creates a positive foundation for your day.

Tip: Keep a gratitude journal by your bedside and jot down your thoughts each morning.

2. Practice Mindful Breathing

Breathing is something we often take for granted, yet it’s a powerful tool for centering the mind. Spend five minutes focusing on your breath. Inhale deeply through your nose, hold for a moment, and exhale slowly through your mouth. This exercise calms the nervous system and brings your awareness to the present moment.

Try This: Use the mantra “Inhale calm, exhale stress” as you breathe.

3. Engage in Gentle Movement

Stretching or practicing yoga in the morning helps release tension and awakens your body. Pair your movements with mindful awareness, paying attention to how your body feels with each stretch or pose. Even a simple sun salutation sequence can do wonders.

Bonus: Practicing mindful movement aligns beautifully with the concepts shared in Mindfulness for Everyday Life, particularly the chapter on embodied awareness.

4. Create a Mindful Morning Beverage Ritual

Whether it’s a cup of tea, coffee, or warm lemon water, treat your morning drink as a moment of mindfulness. Notice the aroma, temperature, and taste with each sip. This practice grounds you in the moment and turns a routine activity into a calming ritual.

Suggestion: Avoid multitasking during this time; simply enjoy the act of sipping.

5. Set Daily Intentions

Take a few moments to set an intention for your day. Ask yourself, “What do I want to focus on today?” or “How do I want to show up?” Write your intention on a sticky note or in your journal as a gentle reminder throughout the day.

Example Intentions:

  • “I will approach challenges with patience and curiosity.”
  • “Today, I will prioritize kindness toward myself and others.”

6. Disconnect to Reconnect

Avoid reaching for your phone first thing in the morning. Instead, give yourself at least 30 minutes of device-free time to connect with yourself. This practice reduces mental clutter and allows you to start your day with clarity and purpose.

Pro Tip: Use this time to read a book, meditate, or simply enjoy the stillness.

Why Morning Mindfulness Matters

Mindful mornings create a ripple effect throughout your day. When you start with intentionality and peace, you’re better equipped to handle stress, make thoughtful decisions, and maintain emotional balance. By anchoring yourself in the present moment, you invite more joy and less reactivity into your life.

If you’re ready to dive deeper into mindful living, explore my ebook Mindfulness for Everyday Life. It’s packed with practical tips, reflective exercises, and insights to help you cultivate mindfulness in all aspects of your life.

Click here to learn more and get your copy!

Start your journey today. Your mindful mornings await.

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Vibrant Lettuce & Beet Salad with Dill Yogurt Dressing



Ingredients:

2 cups lettuce (mixed greens or butter lettuce)

1 medium beet (roasted or boiled, peeled, and cubed)

1/4 cup plain yogurt (unsweetened, probiotic-rich)

1 teaspoon fresh dill (chopped) 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar 1 teaspoon honey (optional)

Instructions:

Arrange lettuce leaves on a plate and top with cubed beets.

In a small bowl, mix yogurt, dill, apple cider vinegar, and honey (if using). Drizzle the yogurt dressing over the salad.

Garnish with extra dill if desired.

Benefits:

Beets support liver function and aid digestion. Yogurt provides gut-friendly probiotics.

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Tides of Destiny Ch 11

Chapter 11: A Glimpse of Truth
The chilling revelation in the secret chamber lingered in Aileen’s mind as she retraced her steps up the spiral staircase. In Chapter 10, she had unearthed a weathered map and cryptic letters that hinted at betrayal, sacrifice, and forbidden love—threads intricately woven into the tapestry of the manor’s dark past. The map’s faded ink and torn edges seemed to mark locations both within and outside the manor. As for the letters, Damien’s name was mentioned, alongside cryptic references to a mysterious figure, simply addressed as The Keeper.
The storm brewing outside mirrored the tempest in Aileen’s heart. The journal entries, the letters, and the eerie connection with Eleanor’s ghost pointed to something far more sinister than just a tale of lost love. Something had been hidden—something dangerous.

The following morning, Aileen sat in the parlor, the journal and letters spread before her. The manor was quieter than usual, as though holding its breath. The map haunted her thoughts, its markings leading to unknown secrets. Eleanor’s words whispered through her mind: “The storm will come, and with it, the truth will rise.”
A sudden knock at the front door startled her. She hadn’t expected visitors. Brushing her thoughts aside, she rose to answer, only to find the local historian, Mr. Fletcher, standing in the rain-soaked doorway. His expression was unreadable, but his eyes carried a mix of curiosity and concern.
“I hope I’m not intruding,” he said, stepping inside and shaking the water off his coat. “I thought you might need some help with your research.”
Aileen hesitated before nodding. “I’ve found some… interesting things.” She led him to the parlor and gestured to the scattered papers.
Mr. Fletcher examined them with a practiced eye. “This map,” he murmured, tracing the lines with a finger. “It leads to the estate’s southern woods, near the ruins of an old chapel.”
“Chapel?” Aileen’s voice wavered. The word stirred something deep within her. “Why wasn’t it mentioned in any of the records I read?”
“It was destroyed over a century ago,” Mr. Fletcher replied. “There were rumors, though—about strange rituals, a secret society, and a treasure hidden beneath its altar.”
Aileen’s pulse quickened. “Treasure?”
“Not gold or jewels,” he clarified. “Something more profound. Some say it’s the truth about the manor’s curse.”

The rain had subsided by the time Aileen and Mr. Fletcher reached the ruins of the chapel. The ground was soft beneath their boots, the air thick with the scent of moss and decay. The ruins were overgrown, the remnants of stone walls barely visible through the tangled vines.
With Mr. Fletcher’s help, Aileen navigated to the center of the ruins, where the altar once stood. The map indicated a spot nearby. Aileen knelt, brushing aside the leaves and dirt until her fingers hit something solid—stone.
“Help me,” she urged, and together they cleared the area to reveal a stone slab, engraved with a symbol that matched the design on the map.
Mr. Fletcher frowned. “This symbol… it’s older than the manor. Medieval, perhaps.”
Aileen’s heart raced as they pried the slab open. Beneath it was a narrow tunnel leading into the earth. The air was cold and musty, carrying a sense of foreboding.

The tunnel descended sharply, the walls lined with ancient carvings. Aileen’s flashlight cast long shadows, revealing depictions of angels and demons locked in battle. At the end of the passage was a small chamber, its walls covered in murals. In the center stood a pedestal, upon which rested a single, unmarked chest.
With trembling hands, Aileen opened the chest. Inside was a bundle of parchment, fragile with age. Unfolding the top sheet, she gasped. It was a confession—a declaration of guilt and love written by Eleanor.
The letter revealed the truth about Eleanor and Damien’s tragic love, but it also mentioned The Keeper as someone who had forced their hand, threatening them with ruin if they didn’t comply with a sinister plan.

As they left the chapel ruins, Aileen’s mind was ablaze with questions. Who was The Keeper? What was this plan that had doomed Eleanor and Damien? And how was Aileen herself connected to all of this?
Back at the manor, as Aileen prepared to study the letters further, she heard a faint melody echoing through the halls—a song she recognized from her dreams. Following the sound, she arrived at the grand piano in the parlor.
The lid was open, but no one was there. On the piano’s surface lay a single rose, its petals as crimson as blood. Aileen picked it up, and a voice—Eleanor’s voice—whispered from nowhere:
“Beware, Aileen. The truth you seek comes at a cost.”
The piano lid slammed shut, the sound echoing through the house, leaving Aileen standing alone in the dimly lit room, the weight of Eleanor’s warning heavy in her chest.

PenbyZee

"A Journey of Words, Together with Zee"

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