Johanny Ortega | Have A Cup Of Johanny LLC

The Ordinary Bruja

For fans of Mexican Gothic and The Inheritance of Orquídea Divina, The Ordinary Bruja is a psychological horror and magical realism novel about grief, ancestral secrets, Dominican brujería, and one woman’s fight to reclaim the magic her family tried to bury.

When strange messages appear in mirrors, and the scent of cigar smoke follows her through her small Ohio hometown, Marisol Espinal must confront the ghosts of her past, the truth about her mother’s death, and the family curse waiting for her on Hallowthorn Hill.

Her family buried the magic. Now it wants out.

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From Halloween to Hallmark: Why Cutesy Christmas Movies Are My Self-Care Strategy


Halloween, my ultimate favorite holiday, has come and gone. The decorations are carefully packed away, the spooky vibes stored for another year. Now, it’s time to immerse myself in Christmas—my second-favorite holiday. And with that shift comes my guilty pleasure: cutesy Christmas movies.

Why These Movies Matter

For many, the transition from Halloween to the festive cheer of Christmas feels natural and joyous. But for me, this time of year carries a unique weight. The closing of one year and the looming start of another bring a rush of responsibilities. Work projects need wrapping up or at least brought to a manageable state for the new year. My publishing business demands advance planning—scheduling blog posts, podcast episodes, and getting my writing projects to a point where I can breathe. All this hustle ensures I carve out time for my family, which, let’s be real, brings its own complexities.

As someone often wrapped up in work and writing, I sometimes feel like the oddball in my own family. It’s tough to fully connect when you’re juggling so much. That’s where these light-hearted Christmas movies come in. They’re my escape, my little sanctuary of joy amidst the chaos.

The Magic of Simple Joy

These movies are predictable, yes, but that’s their charm. They offer a world where everything works out, where challenges are met with heartwarming resolutions. During a season that can be externally bright but internally challenging, these films are my safe space. They remind me to smile, to feel the warmth of hope, even when I’m feeling a little blue.

It’s disheartening when people dismiss these movies as silly or shallow. For me, they’re a beacon of light in what can be a demanding time. They allow me to stash away some joy, preserving it for December when the world seems to insist on merriment. And you know what? I need that stash. I’m a self-preservation queen, after all.

Currently Watching: Fall Into Winter

Join Me in the Cheer

So, if you find yourself overwhelmed by the year-end rush, consider diving into the world of cutesy Christmas movies. Follow my lead—pack away some joy, preserve your peace, and let’s survive this season together. After all, we all deserve a little hope and happiness, especially when the world feels a bit too heavy.


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