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✍️ A Moment of Inspiration

January 22, 2026

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When your mind feels like a prison and your heart is broken, where do you turn? Read my personal prayer for peace, healing for my father, and the transformative power of writing your prayers to God.

Every now and again, I get inspired to write. My body, mind, and soul fill with words that are screaming to be released.

This inspiration struck during church on Sunday. Father Craig was delivering his sermon about peace and while he was preaching. I stopped taking notes and starting writing my prayer.

When I started this blog, I posted about my intentions. I wanted it to be primarily a movie and book review space. It was also meant to be a place for whatever else inspire me. This was certainly one of those moments.

This is my prayer

Lord, my peace hasn’t been strong for a while now. I’ve been rattled, my faith has been shaken, my heart has been broken. I feel my self falling away from you.

Forgive me for not drawing close to you. Create a longing in my heart to seek you each new day.

I pray that I can find a way to start worshiping you outdoors. As I sit and listen, I want to see the beautiful world you created. This way, I can worship you. The beauty around me has faded away and I long for its return. I do not want to be confined to the walls that fill my home, mind, and body. My mind has trapped me in a prison and I am I reaching out to be free. Please release me from my mind!

Heal my broken heart so I can conquer any trials that come my way.

Heal my dad. Make him strong again. My heart is yearning for the day to see my daddy riding off on his motorcycle. I dream of the times at the lake on his boat with his grandchildren all around him. I would even be grateful for something small. It would be wonderful just to see him sit painlessly at the dinner table. I wish for his mind to be clear again.

One Final Thought…

One of my professors in college encouraged me to start writing my prayers and journaling my thoughts. I’ve never been great with words when it comes to expressing my emotions. This process has really helped me a great deal. I’m so thankful for Dr. Williams encouraging me to start writing. It really has made a difference in my life. I now have journals lining my bookshelves. These journals are filled with words that have never been spoken. They were released to help me process my emotions.

Dr. Williams changed my life by suggesting I write my prayers. Do you have a specific way you ‘release’ your thoughts—whether it’s through music, art, journaling, or long walks? I’d love to hear what helps you process the heavy moments.

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The Christmas Candle: Hope and Faith in Film

January 22, 2026

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A review of Max Lucado’s ‘The Christmas Candle’ through the lens of the Anglican Advent tradition. Discover a story of faith vs. cynicism and the true meaning of the Season of Hope.

As Christmas comes around, I finally feel the cool Florida air all around me. The leaves have started to fall. I long to start the Season of Advent with my family. I am especially eager to start it with my son, L, who is seven. As an Anglican, Advent is a very special time in our faith. We are preparing for the coming of Christ, the Light of the World. Each week, we read different scriptures in the Bible prophesying the Christ child. We also light a candle symbolizing His different attributes. This is the first week of Advent, and the candle we lit on the Advent Wreath this week was Hope. Jesus is the Hope of the world. When I read that The Christmas Candle is centered around the Anglican Christmas tradition, I became very excited. To my knowledge, I have never watched a Christmas movie that involved the traditional Anglican Advent. I was curious to see how close the movie was to the tradition I hold dear. Below is my full review of the film.

Max Lucado’s The Christmas Candle

When I sat down to watch The Christmas Candle, I didn’t know what to expect. The ratings had very mixed reviews, so I knew the movie would go either way. Still, unlike other Christmas movies, this wasn’t centered around Santa Claus, toys, or a cheesy Hallmark romance. To be honest, it was refreshing to watch something different.I was looking for a beautiful story with breathtaking views of the countryside and a message about remembered hope. This film absolutely delivered.

Faith vs. Cynicism

I found the introduction of the new pastor, David Richmond, to be the central conflict that really hooked me. It was heart-warming to see a time when a pastor was truly the center of the town. The pastor was someone the people relied on during hard times to reassure them of their faith. Richmond is a progressive and skeptical man. He arrives intent on updating the villagers’ beliefs and techniques. He sees the candle tradition as nothing more than foolish superstition. His struggle to reconcile his theological beliefs with the profound faith of the villagers felt deeply authentic to me. It’s not a struggle against a villain. It’s a struggle against cynicism. I think it is a far more compelling battle for a Christmas movie. I understand David’s internal struggle. He tries to reconcile his theology with what seems like an old wives’ tale.

The Verdict

In the end, The Christmas Candle is a beautiful meditation on faith, community, and the nature of miracles. It is a great reminder. Sometimes, the greatest miracles aren’t a flash of light. They are simple acts of compassion, forgiveness, and finding connection in an isolated world. This is a movie worth watching and sharing with friends and family. Advent only comes once a year, and it’s foolish to get caught up in the busyness of life. This is a time to celebrate with those you love. It is also a moment to study the scriptures. We await the coming of Christ our Lord.

Now it’s your turn-I’ve realized I’m a sucker for movies set in the English countryside! Do you prefer your Christmas movies to be modern and high-tech? Or do you, like me, crave that traditional, old-world feeling?
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My Story of Support, Faith, and the Miracle of Landon

January 21, 2026

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A personal story of faith, a high-risk hEDS pregnancy, and the miracle of Landon’s birth. Discover why community support is vital for women in crisis. Learn how the First Coast Women’s Center in Macclenny, FL, changes lives.

Last night, I had the wonderful opportunity. I attended the charity dinner supporting the First Coast Women’s Center in Macclenny, Florida. After hearing about all the life-changing work this center does for families, I felt compelled to share my own story.

Before my son, Landon, was born (DOB: 01/16/2018), doctors told me I would most never conceive. Yet, God blessed my husband and me with a child.

Landon’s journey was difficult from the start. During the first trimester, I became violently ill, and doctors recommended that we consider termination. My husband and I refused. I was then hospitalized for three weeks and underwent surgery with the possibility that Landon not survive. He did.

Throughout my entire pregnancy, I battled recurring kidney stones and endured the painful symptoms of hEDS (a connective tissue disorder). These complications constantly risked early labor or uterine rupture, but through prayer, God kept us safe.

Despite warnings from doctors that he would be born prematurely, Landon arrived on time. We were concerned about withdrawals. I required pain medication throughout the pregnancy to manage the stones. It also helped to prevent early labor. He did not. After five days in the NICU, Landon was released, healthy and checking out wonderfully. Our God is a good God, and He hears our prayers! Thank you to everyone who prayed for Landon and our family. He is a fighter and I thank Jesus everyday for him.

Why Support Matters

After everything I endured, I gained a new, profound understanding of why a woman would consider abortion.

Throughout my entire pregnancy, I faced bed rest, hospitalization, and surgery. Despite these challenges, I was surrounded by the loving support of family, friends, and my church. Their constant presence and prayers were my anchor.

If I had faced those medical crises alone, I would have had no emotional or financial support. Without faith to lean on, I honestly understand why a woman would feel abortion was her only choice.

This is why First Coast Women’s Services in Macclenny are so critically important. They are not just about saving unborn babies. They offer the faith, love, and community that scared and vulnerable women need to make the choice for life.

Last night’s charity dinner warmed my heart, seeing our entire community gathered to support the FCWS. This, to me, is the true meaning of women supporting women.

Have you ever had a moment when a friend showed up for you. Or it was a community member who appeared right when you needed it most? I’d love to hear your story of support in the comments.

I’m sharing my journey with hEDS to let you know you’re not alone. You are dealing with a diagnosis. Maybe it’s just a tough season. Feel free to share your ‘win’ for the week below. We’re in this together.

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Arthur Christmas: A Modern Classic with a Sensory Warning

January 21, 2026

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A review of Arthur Christmas from a mom’s perspective. Explore the themes of tradition vs. technology and a vital sensory warning for parents of autistic children.

When I think of Christmas classics, my mind instantly goes to the nostalgia of my childhood. I remember Rudolph, Frosty, and The Year Without a Santa Claus. I’ll admit, I am skeptical of newer holiday movies. Nostalgia carries a lot of weight in my house!

Nonetheless, today’s kids are different. While my generation grew up with fewer options, kids today are overwhelmed with choices. They want something they can relate to—but as a mom, I have to look deeper than just the plot.

A Lesson in Sensory Needs

My seven-year-old son is high-functioning autistic. While he loves technology, sensory overload is something I always have to consider. I was so excited about the premise of Arthur Christmas—Santa’s operation run like an epic Mission Impossible mission!

But I forgot that just because I enjoy an idea doesn’t mean it’s right for him. In his own words: “Mom, this movie was way too busy for me.” If your child struggles with loud sounds, it is a movie to skip. Fast-moving lights or “busy” animations can also be worrying. You want to watch with caution.

The Plot: High-Tech vs. High-Heart

The central idea of this film is pure genius. “Santa” has become an inherited corporate title. The operation is managed by the hyper-efficient, “Type A” elder son, Steve. The current Santa, Malcolm, is mostly a figurehead.

Then there is Arthur.

Arthur is the clumsy, artistic, and deeply emotional younger brother who works in the mail room. As the youngest child in my own family, I felt so connected to him. When one single gift is accidentally left behind, the “corporate” side of the North Pole accepts it as an error. They view it as within the acceptable margin. But Arthur sees it for what it truly is: a personal failure to one specific child.

The Conflict of Generations

My favorite part of the film was the “old vs. new” dynamic.
- Steve symbolizes modern logistics and efficiency.
- Arthur and Grand Santa (a gloriously grumpy traditionalist). He just wants his wooden sleigh back. They represent the true, sentimental spirit of giving.
Watching Arthur and Grand Santa bumble across the globe in a dilapidated old sleigh was heartwarming. They were on a mission to deliver one small bicycle. It reminds us that the enormous scale of the operation is meaningless if even one child feels forgotten.

Final Thoughts

Arthur Christmas is a modern classic that beautifully bridges the gap between old traditions and the new world. It doesn’t just explain how Santa does it; it explains why he does it.

The Verdict: I simply adored this movie, but please keep the “business” of the film in mind. The high-tech atmosphere and fast-paced lights are a lot of fun, but they can be overwhelming for some little ones.

Keep Reading…Below Are Five Christmas Movie Recommendations For Families.

The Christmas movies on this list are movies that my family and I re-watch year after year.
1. Klaus (2019)- This is one of my favorite Christmas movies of all time. Every time I watch this movie I am reminded of the meaning of Christmas.
2. Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey (2020)- This movie is beautifully made. The inspiration and imagination that created this movie shares magic all around.
3. The Polar Express (2004)- This was the first year I have watched The Polar Express. The children in this movie are beautifully created and full of wonder.
4. Ice Age: A Mammoth Christmas (2011)- The Ice Age movies always make me laugh. This movie was no different. I hope that more Ice Age movies will continue to be released.
5. Prep & Landing (2009)- The Prep & Landing shorts are part of the Arthur Christmas family. I think because they are shorter they are easier for my son to watch.
What are your favorite Christmas movies to watch with your family?
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Underworld Movie Review: A Perfect Fall Escape

January 20, 2026

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Discover why Fall became my favorite season after moving from Florida to North Carolina. Featuring a review of the Underworld movie series and a look at embracing Halloween traditions.

Seasons come and seasons go, but Fall will always be my favorite.

If you had asked me years ago, I would have told you I was a “Summer Girl” through and through. Growing up in Florida, summer was my paradise—endless beach days, lake parties, and sunshine. Being a Florida native meant life was mostly hot, warm, or slightly cool, but always a never-ending summer.

That all changed when I moved to North Carolina. For the first time, I experienced the seasons changing slowly. My heart filled with a new sense of hope and wonder.

Embracing the “Forbidden” Fun

Growing up in a conservative Christian home, the only Fall holiday we really celebrated was Thanksgiving. To be honest, until recently, Thanksgiving was actually my least favorite holiday! We didn’t do Halloween—no costumes, no candy, and definitely no “scary” movies.

Experiencing all those “forbidden” things as a young adult has been so much fun. I used to wonder, “How old is too old to join in these festivities?” I quickly learned the answer: You are never too old. Now, I get to see that magic through the eyes of my son, my nieces, and my nephews. My heart is full of the time I get to cherish with them.

My Fall Watch List: Diving into the Underworld

To kick off the season, I always make a list of books and movies that fit the autumn “vibe.” First on my list this year is the Underworld series. These films are packed with vampires, werewolves (Lycans), hybrids, and magic—exactly what I missed out on as a kid!

Underworld: A Review

The movie opens in a way that perfectly sets the mood. There is falling rain, the deep darkness of night, and an ancient rivalry. You quickly realize you’re being pulled into an epic secret world that humans aren’t invited to.

At its core, it’s a beautiful, “off-kilter” love story. It is between the vampire “Death Dealer,” Selene, and Michael. He is a human on the verge of becoming a hybrid. As I watched, I couldn’t help but wonder: What if this secret world actually existed right alongside our own? It is unknown to those of us who live in the daylight.

What I Loved:
- The Aesthetic: The darkness, heavy rain, and shadowy cityscapes are stunning.
- The Action: The fight scenes are beautifully choreographed—almost like watching a dark ballet. There is a strange beauty in the shadows.
- The Escapism: It’s pure, atmospheric fun.
Is Underworld the best movie ever made? No. But is it a blast to watch on a rainy October night? Absolutely.
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Unmasking Identity in Ha Jin’s _A Map of Betrayal_

January 20, 2026

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A review of A Map of Betrayal by Ha Jin. Explore the emotional journey of a daughter. She uncovers her father’s secret life as a Chinese operative. She also discovers the hidden family he left behind.

Ha Jin’s novel A Map of Betrayal left me haunted by one question. How much do we really know about the people we see every day? From a young age, many of us learn to “mask.” We hide our true selves and become exactly what the world expects us to be. But what happens when that mask becomes a lifelong prison? This is a story about a man caught between two worlds. He faces a life of duty and a past he never quite outran.

The Secret in the Journals

The story begins when Lilian discovers her recently deceased father’s journals. She expects to find memories; instead, she finds a bombshell. Her father, Gary, lived a double life. He was a Chinese intelligence operative. He funneled CIA documents to the Chinese government for decades.

But the political secrets are just the beginning. Lilian learns that her father had a secret family in China—a whole life she was never part of. Lilian is driven by a mix of shock and curiosity. She takes a job at a Chinese university. She wants to track down the relatives she never knew she had.

The Pain of a “Homeless” Soul

What struck me most was the profound sense of isolation. Gary is a man without a true home. He is living a lie in America, haunted by the family he abandoned in China.

Ha Jin masterfully portrays the quiet anguish of a man whose very identity is built on a foundation of lies. It’s heartbreaking to realize that Gary used the story of his past not to save himself. He wanted to pave a way for his daughter to eventually find the truth. The flashbacks kept me gripped, making me feel the weight of every secret Gary carried.

Final Thoughts: Loyalty and Loss

A Map of Betrayal is an emotional, thought-provoking read. It challenges you to think about:
- The price of secrets: What does it cost your soul to lie every day?
- The nature of loyalty: Is it to your country, your family, or yourself?
- The meaning of patriotism: Can you love two places at once?
I’ll be honest: it took me a few chapters to fully settle into the story. But by the end, I was overwhelmed. I felt a deep sadness for a man who lived such a lonely, fragmented life. I also felt a sense of peace. His daughter managed to bridge that gap. She connected with her family and helped them overcome the poverty they were living in.
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Binge-Watching Lost: Emotional Insights and Hidden Clues

January 20, 2026

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A personal review of the TV show LOST. Discover the ‘three endings’ theory. Learn why it’s the perfect show for a binge-watch. Get 5 recommendations for shows just like it.

Unlike the fans who spent years waiting week-to-week for answers, my journey with Lost began on a snowy January morning. My husband, Jon, and I were completely snowed in. I was buried under blankets. Overwhelmed by Netflix options, I remembered my sisters raving about a show involving a plane crash and a mysterious island.

I actually remember the original commercials from 2004. At the time, I was a sophomore in high school living in a conservative household. I wasn’t allowed to have a TV in my room. I was worried my parents wouldn’t approve of the “destitute” island drama! Plus, I had just gotten my driver’s license—I wanted to be out with friends, not stuck in the family room.

Fast advance to that snowy morning with Jon, and within minutes, we were hooked.

The 48-Hour Binge

We tore through Season One in less than two days. For the next three days, we did nothing but binge-watch and try to make sense of the chaos. The immediate human drama mixed with the slow reveal of the island’s bizarre nature created an atmosphere of pure mystery.

But as the seasons progressed, it wasn’t just the “monsters” that kept me watching—it was the people. I became deeply invested in their flaws and hidden pasts. That emotional connection was the true anchor of the series.

Surgery, Recovery, and a New Perspective

Earlier this year, I became very ill and had to undergo two surgeries within a single month. During my recovery, I had a lot of alone time and decided it was finally time for a re-watch.

The first time I watched the finale, I felt it was confusing—like the writers had painted themselves into a corner. I mentioned this to my older sister, Kara, and she gave me a piece of advice that changed everything:

“Watch it as if the show has three different endings.”

She told me her second viewing was her favorite, so I gave her theory a try. (And yes, being my older sister, she was right!)

Solving the Puzzle

The second time around, the mythology felt like a brilliant puzzle rather than a confusing mess. I picked up on clues I had missed entirely the first time. The Dharma Initiative, the Smoke Monster, the “Others”—each layer added a new level of reward. The finale, while controversial to some, felt like a beautiful and emotional conclusion when viewed through this new lens.

Lost isn’t just a show; it’s an immersive experience. It demanded my full attention and rewarded me with a story unlike anything else on television.

If You Loved “Lost,” You’ll Love These:

If you’re looking for that same “what is going on?!” feeling, here are five of my favorite shows to fill the void:
1. Fringe (2008): 5 Seasons. Also directed by J.J. Abrams. It’s wild, scientific, and deeply emotional.
2. The 100 (2014): 6 Seasons. Perfect if you want a survival story that centers on teenagers and tough moral choices.
3. Prison Break (2005): The ultimate “high-stakes” show.
4. The OA (2016): An amazing, mind-bending show. Warning: Netflix left it on a cliffhanger, but it is still 100% worth the journey.
5. Heroes (2006) If your interest in more superhero type shows. Still different than most superhero shows and has a great cast lineup.
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Shopaholic on Honeymoon: A Grown-Up Review

January 20, 2026

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A review of Sophie Kinsella’s Shopaholic on Honeymoon. Does Becky’s shopping addiction ruin the romance? A personal look at marriage, growth, and outgrowing favorite characters.

As a long-time fan of Becky Bloomwood, I couldn’t wait to dive into her next adventure. Shopaholic on Honeymoon picks up right after the wedding. Becky and Luke embark on a year-long honeymoon, jet-setting around the world.

I was looking for pure escapism, but to be honest? This book didn’t give it to me. Instead, it made me realize how much I’ve changed.

The Conflict: Shopping vs. Connection

In this installment, Becky’s shopping addiction is completely out of control. She is so consumed by the lure of designer deals. She can’t even pause to go sightseeing with Luke. Visiting a museum is also out of the question.

I found myself struggling to wrap my mind around it. You’re traveling the world, yet you can’t stop for one moment to take in the culture? It’s one thing to be impulsive when you’re single, but Becky is a wife now. In my opinion, her marriage is getting off to a very rocky start.

What a Honeymoon Really Means

A honeymoon isn’t about the “stuff” you bring home; it’s about connecting on a deeper level.

When my husband and I went to Charleston for our honeymoon, we were surrounded by amazing shopping and restaurants. We weren’t interested in those things. We just wanted to rest and spend quiet moments together. Even now, our best vacations are in a quiet cabin surrounded by nature.

The Sadness of the Secret-Keeping

The book is written to be funny and charming, but for me, it fell flat. I felt a sense of sadness reading Becky’s inner monologue—the hidden shopping bags and the complicated lies she tells Luke.

This isn’t how a marriage is supposed to work. The book does not emphasize the excitement of those first days as a married couple. Instead, it focuses on the chaos Becky creates wherever she goes. While you can still feel the genuine love between her and Luke, their relationship is constantly tested by her secrets.

Final Thoughts: Have I Just Outgrown Becky?

Maybe it’s me. Since getting married and having a baby, I’ve grown. These books just don’t relate to my life anymore.

The Verdict: If you are a die-hard Sophie Kinsella fan, you still find Becky’s antics funny. But if you’ve “grown up” alongside the series, you find this one frustrating. I’m holding out hope that the next book, Shopaholic and Sister, feels more grounded and relatable.

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Finding Clarity in Chaos: My Faith-Fueled Healing Journey

January 20, 2026

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From hiding my illness in school to finding healing through journaling and faith. Join me as I navigate life with hEDS, Medullary Kidney Disease, and the search for purpose as I approach 40.

I started this blog to process my life. I needed to figure out how to move ahead now that I’ve been diagnosed with hEDS. Along with hEDS, I’ve had Modular Kidney Disease for most of my life. In past posts, I’ve shared how I’ve always felt like I never quite fit in.

When I was in school, very few people knew I was sick. Friends and classmates would ask why I skipped class so much, and I’d lie, saying, “I just felt like it.” I didn’t want them to know the truth about me. When people find out you’re sick, they treat you differently. They don’t mean to, but it just happens.

Now that I’m older, I’ve learned to be honest with people, and you know what? People will surprise you. They show such understanding and sympathy. If I have to cancel plans suddenly, they know it’s not them. If we don’t see each other for a while, it’s me. They understand that I do care about them and their time, but I simply can’t do it all.

I have shared all of this with you. Now, I want to introduce you to a new part of my blog: my healing through journaling. Keeping a journal has helped me in so many ways. I started journaling in college, and it has truly changed my life. I implore you, if you’ve never journaled, you should start. It can help clear your mind of all the useless clutter and process emotions you didn’t even know you had.

Journal Entry #1

Thank you, Jesus, for allowing me to wake up with a clear mind, plenty of energy, and pain-free.

Thank you that I’m starting to have more good days than bad days.

Thank you that I’m losing weight and have the strength to start exercising again.

“What begins with belief in Jesus in the heart is expressed through trust in Him by our choices and actions, sustained by confident assurance in His character, and established by loyal allegiance to Him and His Kingdom, and it will ultimately result in life in all its fullness.” (The Life-Giving Parent, Chapter 6, Pg 110)

The Life-Giving Parent written by Sally Clarkson is a book that has changed my life. It has also transformed my parenting style in many ways. It doesn’t teach discipline techniques or how to be a “better” parent in the conventional sense. Instead, this book teaches how to bring peace into your home through Christ and His Living Word.

I read the quote above. It makes me think about how, as Americans, we don’t fully understand the concept of a king and his Kingdom. I’m presently reading 1776 by David McCullough. His multiple references to how we “Yankees” went against the throne resonate with me. The Loyalists were shocked that we would turn against the king.

This book draws a great parallel to the world today. There are believers who worship the one true King. They have fully given their lives to Christ. There are non-believers who turn against our Heavenly King and follow sin.

Complement Your Basic Faith With:
- Passionate Patience
- Reverent Wonder
- Generous Love
Lately, I feel as if my life is lacking direction. Landon will be starting back to school soon. Jon is working, and I’m not as sick as I once was. All of these together mean my days are mostly free. When reading books like Playing With Fire by Lawrence O’Donnell and 1776 by David McCullough, I notice how young these people are. They achieve great things. The generals in the Continental Army were my age. John F. Kennedy was in his 40’s when he became president. As I near 40, I wonder where my life is headed. Will I do great things, or will I allow my sickness to dictate how I live my life?

A Prayer for Jon

Lord, please keep Jon safe as he drives home in this extreme heat. I also pray that they will manage to fix the air conditioning in his car.

We’ve tried a couple of times before to have the A/C fixed in his car with little luck. Now that we live in Florida, it’s more important than ever that we get it fixed.

My mind keeps racing, imagining the worst possible scenario with his upcoming mini-deployment. Friendly fire accidents do happen, or just accidents while training in general. I pray for his safety while he is away. We need him. I need him.

Calm my anxiety and fear, remove this worry from my mind.

Lord, in your mercy, hear my prayers.
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Cassandra Mortmain: A Relatable Journey of Love and Growth

January 19, 2026

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A heartfelt review of I Capture the Castle (2003). Discover the awkward charm of Cassandra Mortmain. She navigates first love. She lives in a crumbling castle. She stays in the shadows of a beautiful older sister.

I recently had the pleasure of watching I Capture the Castle (2003). It instantly transported me back to the time my husband and I visited the English countryside. Words truly can’t express the beauty.

From the very first scene, this film feels like a warm, comforting hug. Yet, it isn’t afraid to give you a few emotional jabs along the way.

The Beauty of the “Imperfect” Family

I’ve always enjoyed movies that skip the “perfect” family trope. In my opinion, perfect families create unrealistic expectations that no one can live up to.

The story focuses on the eccentric Mortmain family. They struggle to make ends meet in a crumbling, ivy-clad English castle. Our narrator, Cassandra Mortmain, documents their peculiar lives in her diary. Between her brilliant but “one-hit-wonder” father and her strangely artistic stepmother, Topaz, the house is full of personality (and poverty).

Cassandra: A Mirror of My Younger Self

Cassandra is, without a doubt, my favorite character. She is shy, sheltered, and socially awkward—and yet, she finds her way.

She is me.

I felt like I was part of her life as she narrated her diary. I shared in her heartbreak. I feel her longing and growth. She often feels overshadowed by her beautiful older sister, Rose, throughout the film. She thinks Rose’s beauty is the family’s only hope of escaping poverty.

Living in the Shadow

I felt a deep connection to Cassandra here. Growing up, my older sister was the beautiful, popular, well-liked one. For many years, I felt she was “better” than me, which created a quiet jealousy and resentment.

Thankfully, adulthood changed things. We grew closer over time, and today, she is my best friend. I realize now how blessed I am to have her. Watching Cassandra navigate those same feelings of “being less than” brought all those old memories back to the surface.

A Visual and Romantic Escape

Visually, the film is stunning. The castle itself becomes a character—dilapidated, romantic, and ancient. The chemistry between Cassandra and the two wealthy American brothers, Simon and Neil, brings classic romantic dilemmas. These dilemmas keep you guessing. You find yourself rooting for different pairings at different times, which is a credit to the wonderful acting.

The pacing is gentle, never rushed, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in this bygone era.

Final Thoughts

I Capture the Castle is a heartfelt coming-of-age tale wrapped in romance. It’s a delightful escape that left me smiling and even shedding a tear or two. If you’re seeking a charming story about the messiness of family, I recommend watching it. It beautifully explores the awkwardness of first love.

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