The Challenge Factory discussion

When I used to set up the TCF Monthly, I would always try to add in tasks to honor one of that month's symbols. I started thinking about doing a challenge based around just those symbols, and this is the fruit of that pondering!

How It Works:
★This will be a mix and match challenge, so pick your level, then pick your books.
★ There will be a list of symbols with prompts posted along with a list for spell outs. Your challenge is to complete as many or as few of them as you can in the given month.
★Spell out one or both of the listed words using Title (First letter of first word in the title only, but check the Do Not Count list below for exceptions!), Author Name (First and last only, no middle initials or names (unless noted)!), or Series Name (First letter of first word in the series name only, but check the Do Not Count list below for exceptions!). If using series name, be sure to add it next to your entry!! (Example: S-Loving Irish (The Summerhaven Trio #3) by Katy Regnery)
★When using titles for letters, the words A, And, An, and The do not count.
★NO DUPLICATING BOOK OR TASK ENTRIES!! Books and Tasks are only to be used/listed/completed once! An example of this would be reading a book published in January 2014 for the "Read a book published in January (any year)" task, and then reading another book, this one published in January 2016, justifying it by saying that the books were published in two separate years. Once you complete the "Read a book published in January (any year)" task, it can't be completed a second time to count for completion.
★Books must be read from {Insert Month Here} 1st to {Insert Month Here} 30th/31st
★Re-reads are allowed, but all books must be at least 30 pages in length!
★You CAN change your Books at any time during the challenge.

Some Info to Keep In Mind:
♦Keep your original post updated and give a shout out in the thread when you're all done! Please do not make a separate post with your finished challenge, edit your original comment! This is so I can keep accurate track of participation. You can make an announcement post like "Finished in comment #2!", so I know where to find your completed challenge to congratulate you! Duplicate posts will be deleted!
♦Mark books as finished by adding the date finished next to the book listed and either striking them out using the "< s> < /s>" HTML commands (without the spaces) or by copying and pasting a checkmark: ✔ ✓
♦Add a tally of completed books to your Original Post= 0/5 completed!

See my post for examples and if you have questions, PLEASE ask me here, or PM me!

Information credits: https://www.buildingbeautifulsouls.co... and https://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnanc...

Levels:
Easy: 1 symbol completed
Medium: 2-4 symbols completed
Hard: 5-7 symbols completed
Challenging: 8-9 symbols completed
On Fire: All symbols completed

February Symbols:
Naming: There were some very descriptive names for February around the world. In Old English it was the mud month. In the Finnish language February is pearl month, probably alluding to the visual impact of ice and snow on everything. And Macedonians called it the month of cutting (i.e. harvesting wood). Read a book with a pearl, a mud puddle, or cut and stacked wood on the cover, or a book with the word cut, mud, or pearl in the title.

Zodiac: (each sign counts as 1 symbol) Aquarius until February 18-Water Bearer: Read a historical novel featuring someone who carries water or food to others or Pisces from February 19-The Fish (The Pisces sign symbol usually depicts two fish swimming in opposite directions and connected by a cord).: Read a book where a character catches at least two fish on a fishing trip, has at least two pet fish, or a book where there are two fish on the cover

Gemstone-Amethyst: Amethyst is believed to bring the wearer courage, clarity and quick wit. The stone has long been associated with royalty in addition to myths and legends across many cultures. Read a book where a character is royalty or acts in a courageous manner

Flower: Violet, Primrose: The violet stands for loyalty and faithfulness. Another February flower, a gift of a primrose lets the recipient know you can't live without them. Read a book with a violet or primrose on the cover or where a character is grateful, loyal, faithful, or says that they can't live without someone else.

Tree: Cypress, Poplar, Cedar, Pine: Read a book with one of these trees on the cover (Google the tree for images to match with your cover!)

Color-Purple: Purple was a hard to obtain from sources like shellfish in ancient times that it became the color for kings and the very wealthy. The idea that purple is a luxurious color remains to this day. Purple represents magic and spirituality in the metaphysical world. It vibrates with the energy of honor and inventiveness. Shades of purple also have various meanings. The light purple represents mirth and romance while dark shades embody logic and nobility. Psychologically children react to purple as a joyful color, free of worries. Read a book with a purple cover (any shade)

Icons- Rowan and/or Ash Tree: Ash represents change (perfect for this month), renewal and increased awareness. It is a marvelous tree for inventiveness and enthusiasm too. The Celts admired the Rowan tree for not only its beauty but also its durability. The general symbolic values given to Rowan include renewal, safety, positive change, stability, psychic awareness and health. One of the interesting things about Rowan trees is that they appear to thrive in the most unlikely locations, making the best of whatever spot they root! Read a book featuring a change, a character that shows enthusiasm or inventiveness, or the stability or renewal of a character

Number-2: The number 2 in Numerology has ties with the sacred Feminine. This is the energy of a peace keeper, filled with forgiveness and tact. Two’s language of love is service. To that end there is great humility in this number’s vibrations. In modern terms, Two is the strong woman behind a man, in the backdrop aiding success. February’s energy is never presumptuous in its lessons but it is present for good advice and a little shrewdness. Read a book where one character forgives another, is humble about an accomplishment or ability, aids another's success, or where the character works in a service industry type job (Food service, Customer Service, Hospitality, etc). Participants can also read a book published in February of any year or published in any month of 2002 for this task.

Themes- Black History Month, American Heart Month: Read a book by an African American Author or that features African/African American characters prominently, or a romance novel for American Heart Month

Spell Out Words: February or Two

Symbols of the Month-February Challenge
Duration: February 1st to February 28th, 2021
Level: Medium: 2-4 symbols completed
Read: 4/4

February Symbols:
Naming: There were some very descriptive names for February around the world. In Old English it was the mud month. In the Finnish language February is pearl month, probably alluding to the visual impact of ice and snow on everything. And Macedonians called it the month of cutting (i.e. harvesting wood). Read a book with a pearl, a mud puddle, or cut and stacked wood on the cover, or a book with the word cut, mud, or pearl in the title.

Zodiac: (each sign counts as 1 symbol) Aquarius until February 18-Water Bearer: Read a historical novel featuring someone who carries water or food to others or Pisces from February 19-The Fish (The Pisces sign symbol usually depicts two fish swimming in opposite directions and connected by a cord).: Read a book where a character catches at least two fish on a fishing trip, has at least two pet fish, or a book where there are two fish on the cover

Gemstone-Amethyst: Amethyst is believed to bring the wearer courage, clarity and quick wit. The stone has long been associated with royalty in addition to myths and legends across many cultures. Read a book where a character is royalty or acts in a courageous manner: King Sized by Madison Faye-2/13/21

Flower: Violet, Primrose: The violet stands for loyalty and faithfulness. Another February flower, a gift of a primrose lets the recipient know you can't live without them. Read a book with a violet or primrose on the cover or where a character is grateful, loyal, faithful, or says that they can't live without someone else.: Holiday in Death by J.D. Robb-2/25/21

Tree: Cypress, Poplar, Cedar, Pine: Read a book with one of these trees on the cover (Google the tree for images to match with your cover!)

Color-Purple: Purple was a hard to obtain from sources like shellfish in ancient times that it became the color for kings and the very wealthy. The idea that purple is a luxurious color remains to this day. Purple represents magic and spirituality in the metaphysical world. It vibrates with the energy of honor and inventiveness. Shades of purple also have various meanings. The light purple represents mirth and romance while dark shades embody logic and nobility. Psychologically children react to purple as a joyful color, free of worries. Read a book with a purple cover (any shade)

Icons- Rowan and/or Ash Tree: Ash represents change (perfect for this month), renewal and increased awareness. It is a marvelous tree for inventiveness and enthusiasm too. The Celts admired the Rowan tree for not only its beauty but also its durability. The general symbolic values given to Rowan include renewal, safety, positive change, stability, psychic awareness and health. One of the interesting things about Rowan trees is that they appear to thrive in the most unlikely locations, making the best of whatever spot they root! Read a book featuring a change, a character that shows enthusiasm or inventiveness, or the stability or renewal of a character: Hawk by Kat Savage-2/28/21

Number-2: The number 2 in Numerology has ties with the sacred Feminine. This is the energy of a peace keeper, filled with forgiveness and tact. Two’s language of love is service. To that end there is great humility in this number’s vibrations. In modern terms, Two is the strong woman behind a man, in the backdrop aiding success. February’s energy is never presumptuous in its lessons but it is present for good advice and a little shrewdness. Read a book where one character forgives another, is humble about an accomplishment or ability, aids another's success, or where the character works in a service industry type job (Food service, Customer Service, Hospitality, etc). Participants can also read a book published in February of any year or published in any month of 2002 for this task.: Vengeance in Death by J.D. Robb-2/22/21

Themes- Black History Month, American Heart Month: Read a book by an African American Author or that features African/African American characters prominently, or a romance novel for American Heart Month

Spell Out Words: February or Two
T-
W- When I Think of You by Dee Ellis-2/12/21
O-

Medium: 2-4 symbols completed
Duration: February 1st - February 28th, 2021

February Symbols
Naming: There were some very descriptive names for February around the world. In Old English it was the mud month. In the Finnish language February is pearl month, probably alluding to the visual impact of ice and snow on everything. And Macedonians called it the month of cutting (i.e. harvesting wood). Read a book with a pearl, a mud puddle, or cut and stacked wood on the cover, or a book with the word cut, mud, or pearl in the title.

Zodiac: (each sign counts as 1 symbol) Aquarius until February 18-Water Bearer: Read a historical novel featuring someone who carries water or food to others or Pisces from February 19-The Fish (The Pisces sign symbol usually depicts two fish swimming in opposite directions and connected by a cord).: Read a book where a character catches at least two fish on a fishing trip, has at least two pet fish, or a book where there are two fish on the cover

Gemstone-Amethyst: Amethyst is believed to bring the wearer courage, clarity and quick wit. The stone has long been associated with royalty in addition to myths and legends across many cultures.

Flower: Violet, Primrose: The violet stands for loyalty and faithfulness. Another February flower, a gift of a primrose lets the recipient know you can't live without them. Read a book with a violet or primrose on the cover or where a character is grateful, loyal, faithful, or says that they can't live without someone else.

Tree: Cypress, Poplar, Cedar, Pine: Read a book with one of these trees on the cover (Google the tree for images to match with your cover!)

Color-Purple: Purple was a hard to obtain from sources like shellfish in ancient times that it became the color for kings and the very wealthy. The idea that purple is a luxurious color remains to this day. Purple represents magic and spirituality in the metaphysical world. It vibrates with the energy of honor and inventiveness. Shades of purple also have various meanings. The light purple represents mirth and romance while dark shades embody logic and nobility. Psychologically children react to purple as a joyful color, free of worries. Read a book with a purple cover (any shade)

Icons- Rowan and/or Ash Tree: Ash represents change (perfect for this month), renewal and increased awareness. It is a marvelous tree for inventiveness and enthusiasm too. The Celts admired the Rowan tree for not only its beauty but also its durability. The general symbolic values given to Rowan include renewal, safety, positive change, stability, psychic awareness and health. One of the interesting things about Rowan trees is that they appear to thrive in the most unlikely locations, making the best of whatever spot they root! Read a book featuring a change, a character that shows enthusiasm or inventiveness, or the stability or renewal of a character

Number-2: The number 2 in Numerology has ties with the sacred Feminine. This is the energy of a peace keeper, filled with forgiveness and tact. Two’s language of love is service. To that end there is great humility in this number’s vibrations. In modern terms, Two is the strong woman behind a man, in the backdrop aiding success. February’s energy is never presumptuous in its lessons but it is present for good advice and a little shrewdness. Read a book where one character forgives another, is humble about an accomplishment or ability, aids another's success, or where the character works in a service industry type job (Food service, Customer Service, Hospitality, etc). Participants can also read a book published in February of any year or published in any month of 2002 for this task.

Themes- Black History Month, American Heart Month: Read a book by an African American Author or that features African/African American characters prominently, or a romance novel for American Heart Month

Spell Out Words: February or Two
T
W
O

Trea, what's the task for Amethyst?

Denise wrote: "Trea, what's the task for Amethyst?"

Whoops! I'll add it!

Symbols of the Month - February

Duration: 01 - 28 February 2021
Level: Hard (5-7 symbols)
Completed: 8/8

February Symbols:
Naming: There were some very descriptive names for February around the world. In Old English it was the mud month. In the Finnish language February is pearl month, probably alluding to the visual impact of ice and snow on everything. And Macedonians called it the month of cutting (i.e. harvesting wood). Read a book with a pearl, a mud puddle, or cut and stacked wood on the cover, or a book with the word cut, mud, or pearl in the title.
The Pearl by John Steinbeck (11 Feb 2021) ***

Zodiac: (each sign counts as 1 symbol) Aquarius until February 18-Water Bearer: Read a historical novel featuring someone who carries water or food to others or Pisces from February 19-The Fish (The Pisces sign symbol usually depicts two fish swimming in opposite directions and connected by a cord).: Read a book where a character catches at least two fish on a fishing trip, has at least two pet fish, or a book where there are two fish on the cover

Gemstone-Amethyst: Amethyst is believed to bring the wearer courage, clarity and quick wit. The stone has long been associated with royalty in addition to myths and legends across many cultures. Read a book where a character is royalty or acts in a courageous manner
The Falcon of Sparta by Conn Iggulden (05 Feb 2021) ****

Flower: Violet, Primrose: The violet stands for loyalty and faithfulness. Another February flower, a gift of a primrose lets the recipient know you can't live without them. Read a book with a violet or primrose on the cover or where a character is grateful, loyal, faithful, or says that they can't live without someone else.

Tree: Cypress, Poplar, Cedar, Pine: Read a book with one of these trees on the cover (Google the tree for images to match with your cover!)

Color-Purple: Purple was a hard to obtain from sources like shellfish in ancient times that it became the color for kings and the very wealthy. The idea that purple is a luxurious color remains to this day. Purple represents magic and spirituality in the metaphysical world. It vibrates with the energy of honor and inventiveness. Shades of purple also have various meanings. The light purple represents mirth and romance while dark shades embody logic and nobility. Psychologically children react to purple as a joyful color, free of worries. Read a book with a purple cover (any shade)
Mistress of Malice and Mercy by Kara Thorpe (27 Feb 2021) ***

Icons- Rowan and/or Ash Tree: Ash represents change (perfect for this month), renewal and increased awareness. It is a marvelous tree for inventiveness and enthusiasm too. The Celts admired the Rowan tree for not only its beauty but also its durability. The general symbolic values given to Rowan include renewal, safety, positive change, stability, psychic awareness and health. One of the interesting things about Rowan trees is that they appear to thrive in the most unlikely locations, making the best of whatever spot they root! Read a book featuring a change, a character that shows enthusiasm or inventiveness, or the stability or renewal of a character
An Honest Man by Ben Fergusson (22 Feb 2021) ****

Number-2: The number 2 in Numerology has ties with the sacred Feminine. This is the energy of a peace keeper, filled with forgiveness and tact. Two’s language of love is service. To that end there is great humility in this number’s vibrations. In modern terms, Two is the strong woman behind a man, in the backdrop aiding success. February’s energy is never presumptuous in its lessons but it is present for good advice and a little shrewdness. Read a book where one character forgives another, is humble about an accomplishment or ability, aids another's success, or where the character works in a service industry type job (Food service, Customer Service, Hospitality, etc). Participants can also read a book published in February of any year or published in any month of 2002 for this task.

Themes- Black History Month, American Heart Month: Read a book by an African American Author or that features African/African American characters prominently, or a romance novel for American Heart Month
American Spy by Lauren Wilkinson (12 Feb 2021) ****




Spell Out:

T: Theaterblut by Rita Hausen (22 Feb 2021) ***
W: Where the Shadows Lie by Michael Ridpath (16 Feb 2021) ***
O: The Outcast Blade by Jon Courtenay Grimwood (28 Feb 2021) ****

⚜️Trea wrote: "Denise wrote: "Trea, what's the task for Amethyst?"

Whoops! I'll add it!"

Thank you! :)

February Symbols:
4/3


Tree: Pine
2/21/21

Color-Purple:
The Wedding Party by Jasmine Guillory 2/11/21


Number-2:
Read a book where the character works in a service industry type job (Hospitality).
Mardi Gras Murder by Ellen Byron 2/28/21


Themes- Black History Month, American Heart Month:
Read a book by an African American Author and that features African/African American characters prominently and a romance novel
Take a Hint, Dani Brown by Talia Hibbert 2/17/21

Tasks completed: 8/10
Books read: 24/40

01. Naming:
✔ Word ‘MUD’ in title - Trouble in Mudbug – Read: 24/02 – 4 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Pearl on cover -
Mud puddle on cover -
Cut/stacked wood on cover -

02. Zodiac: Aquarius / Pisces
✔ Character catches at least two fish on fishing trip - Louisiana Longshot – Read: 03/02 – 5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Historical title where someone carries water or food to others -
Character has at least two pet fish -
There are two fish on the cover -

03. Gemstone: Amethyst
✔ Character acts courageously - Glory in Death – Read: 16/02 – 5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Royal character -

04. Flower: Violet, Primrose
✔ Character is grateful - The Goddess Gets Her Guy – Read: 05/02 – 2 🌟🌟
✔ Character is loyal/faithful - Alien King Crashes the Wedding – Read: 09/02 – 3 🌟🌟🌟
✔ Character says they can’t live without someone else - The Dragon’s Reluctant Sacrifice – Read: 11/02 – 2 🌟🌟
Violet on cover -
Primrose on cover -

05. Tree: Cypress, Poplar, Cedar, Pine
Cypress, poplar, cedar or pine tree on cover -

06. Colour: Purple
✔ Purple cover - Wrong Side of Forty – Read: 06/02 – 4 🌟🌟🌟🌟

07. Icons: Rowan and/or Ash Tree
✔ Story features a change - Knotty Magic – Read: 07/02 – 3 🌟🌟🌟
✔ Stability or renewal of a character - The Djinn’s Dilemma – Read: 06/02 – 3 🌟🌟🌟
✔ Character shows enthusiasm and inventiveness - The Two Week Arrangement – Read: 02/02 – 3 🌟🌟🌟

08. Number: Two
✔ Book published in February - Pretty Face – Read: 14/02 – 4 🌟🌟🌟🌟
✔ Character forgives another - Naked in Death – Read: 15/02 – 5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
✔ Character aids another’s success - Brimstone Bound – Read: 03/02 – 5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
✔ Character is humble about an accomplishment or ability - Heaven Can’t Wait – Read: 08/02 – 3 🌟🌟🌟
Character works in service industry -
Book published in 2002 -

09. Themes: Black history month, American heart month
✔ Romance novel - Puck Aholic – Read: 02/02 – 3 🌟🌟🌟
Title by African-American author -
Features African or African-American characters prominently -

10. Spell out: ‘FEBRUARY' or 'TWO'
F - Faithless in Death – Read: 14/02 – 5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
E – Elsa Jade's Alpha Star – Read: 08/02 – 3 🌟🌟🌟
B - Barbarian’s Beloved – Read: 09/02 – 3 🌟🌟🌟
R - Kendall Ryan’s Seven Nights of Sin – Read: 02/02 – 3 🌟🌟🌟
U - Under Her Skin – Read: 10/02 – 3 🌟🌟🌟
A - Angelfall – Read: 06/02 – 3 🌟🌟🌟
R - Rescued by the Alien Warrior – Read: 09/02 – 3 🌟🌟🌟
Y -

T - Tools of Engagement – Read: 07/02 – 3 🌟🌟🌟
W - Witness in Death – Read: 23/02 – 5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
O -

February Symbols

READ: 7/7

✔️Zodiac: (each sign counts as 1 symbol) Aquarius until February 18-Water Bearer: Read a historical novel featuring someone who carries water or food to others or Pisces from February 19-The Fish (The Pisces sign symbol usually depicts two fish swimming in opposite directions and connected by a cord).:
☀Read a book where a character catches at least two fish on a fishing trip, has at least two pet fish, or a book where there are two fish on the cover
Just Fine with Caroline - Annie England Noblin (Caroline) 2/26

✔️Gemstone-Amethyst: Amethyst is believed to bring the wearer courage, clarity and quick wit. The stone has long been associated with royalty in addition to myths and legends across many cultures.
☀Read a book where a character is royalty or acts in a courageous manner
A Vow So Bold and Deadly - Brigid Kemmerer (hero is a prince) 2/24

✔️Flower: Violet, Primrose: The violet stands for loyalty and faithfulness. Another February flower, a gift of a primrose lets the recipient know you can't live without them.
☀Read a bookwith a violet or primrose on the cover or where a character is grateful, loyal, faithful, or says that they can't live without someone else.
Best Wishes Always - Lucy Finn 2/26

✔️Color-Purple: Purple was a hard to obtain from sources like shellfish in ancient times that it became the color for kings and the very wealthy. The idea that purple is a luxurious color remains to this day. Purple represents magic and spirituality in the metaphysical world. It vibrates with the energy of honor and inventiveness. Shades of purple also have various meanings. The light purple represents mirth and romance while dark shades embody logic and nobility. Psychologically children react to purple as a joyful color, free of worries.
☀Read a book with a purple cover (any shade)
Not That Kind of Girl - Susan Donovan 2/18


✔️Icons- Rowan and/or Ash Tree: Ash represents change (perfect for this month), renewal and increased awareness. It is a marvelous tree for inventiveness and enthusiasm too. The Celts admired the Rowan tree for not only its beauty but also its durability. The general symbolic values given to Rowan include renewal, safety, positive change, stability, psychic awareness and health. One of the interesting things about Rowan trees is that they appear to thrive in the most unlikely locations, making the best of whatever spot they root!
☀Read a book featuring a change, a character that shows enthusiasm or inventiveness, or the stability or renewal of a character
Shadow Zone - Iris Johansen & Roy Johansen 2/26

✔️Number-2: The number 2 in Numerology has ties with the sacred Feminine. This is the energy of a peace keeper, filled with forgiveness and tact. Two’s language of love is service. To that end there is great humility in this number’s vibrations. In modern terms, Two is the strong woman behind a man, in the backdrop aiding success. February’s energy is never presumptuous in its lessons but it is present for good advice and a little shrewdness.
☀Read a book where one character forgives another, is humble about an accomplishment or ability, aids another's success, or where the character works in a service industry type job (Food service, Customer Service, Hospitality, etc). Participants can also read a book published in February of any year or published in any month of 2002 for this task.
A Darkness Absolute - Kelley Armstrong (pub Feb 7, 2017) 2/20

✔️Spell Out Words: February or Two

T: Tiffany Blues - M.J. Rose 2/10
W: WWW: Wake - Robert J. Sawyer 2/28
O: Lost Without You - Molly O'Keefe 2/21

CHALLENGE COMPLETE

Levels: ✔Easy: 1 symbol completed, Medium: 2-4 symbols completed, Hard: 5-7 symbols completed, Challenging: 8-9 symbols completed & On Fire: All symbols completed

February Symbols:
Naming: There were some very descriptive names for February around the world. In Old English it was the mud month. In the Finnish language February is pearl month, probably alluding to the visual impact of ice and snow on everything. And Macedonians called it the month of cutting (i.e. harvesting wood). Read a book with a pearl, a mud puddle, or cut and stacked wood on the cover, or a book with the word cut, mud, or pearl in the title.

Zodiac: (each sign counts as 1 symbol) Aquarius until February 18-Water Bearer: Read a historical novel featuring someone who carries water or food to others or Pisces from February 19-The Fish (The Pisces sign symbol usually depicts two fish swimming in opposite directions and connected by a cord).: Read a book where a character catches at least two fish on a fishing trip, has at least two pet fish, or a book where there are two fish on the cover

Gemstone-Amethyst: Amethyst is believed to bring the wearer courage, clarity and quick wit. The stone has long been associated with royalty in addition to myths and legends across many cultures. Read a book where a character is royalty or acts in a courageous manner

Flower: Violet, Primrose: The violet stands for loyalty and faithfulness. Another February flower, a gift of a primrose lets the recipient know you can't live without them. Read a book with a violet or primrose on the cover or where a character is grateful, loyal, faithful, or says that they can't live without someone else.

Tree: Cypress, Poplar, Cedar, Pine: Read a book with one of these trees on the cover (Google the tree for images to match with your cover!)

Color-Purple: Purple was a hard to obtain from sources like shellfish in ancient times that it became the color for kings and the very wealthy. The idea that purple is a luxurious color remains to this day. Purple represents magic and spirituality in the metaphysical world. It vibrates with the energy of honor and inventiveness. Shades of purple also have various meanings. The light purple represents mirth and romance while dark shades embody logic and nobility. Psychologically children react to purple as a joyful color, free of worries. Read a book with a purple cover (any shade)

Icons- Rowan and/or Ash Tree: Ash represents change (perfect for this month), renewal and increased awareness. It is a marvelous tree for inventiveness and enthusiasm too. The Celts admired the Rowan tree for not only its beauty but also its durability. The general symbolic values given to Rowan include renewal, safety, positive change, stability, psychic awareness and health. One of the interesting things about Rowan trees is that they appear to thrive in the most unlikely locations, making the best of whatever spot they root! Read a book featuring a change, a character that shows enthusiasm or inventiveness, or the stability or renewal of a character

Number-2: The number 2 in Numerology has ties with the sacred Feminine. This is the energy of a peace keeper, filled with forgiveness and tact. Two’s language of love is service. To that end there is great humility in this number’s vibrations. In modern terms, Two is the strong woman behind a man, in the backdrop aiding success. February’s energy is never presumptuous in its lessons but it is present for good advice and a little shrewdness. Read a book where one character forgives another, is humble about an accomplishment or ability, aids another's success, or where the character works in a service industry type job (Food service, Customer Service, Hospitality, etc). Participants can also read a book published in February of any year or published in any month of 2002 for this task.
Feb 27th - I'll Be Gone in the Dark: One Woman's Obsessive Search for the Golden State Killer by Michelle McNamara - done 2/2/2021

Themes- Black History Month, American Heart Month: Read a book by an African American Author or that features African/African American characters prominently, or a romance novel for American Heart Month

Spell Out Words: February or Two (Title, Author Name or Series Name)
F -
E - Elizabeth Peters, He Shall Thunder in the Sky (Amelia Peabody #12) - done 2/7/2021
B - Susan M. Boyer,Lowcountry Boil (Liz Talbot Mystery #1) - done 2/1/2021
R - Rattling the Heat in Deadwood (Deadwood #8) by Ann Charles - done 2/6/2021
U -
A - Ellery Adams, Chili Con Corpses (A Supper Club Mystery #3) - done 2/4/2021
R -
Y -

T -
W -
O -



In an Absent Dream (Wayward Children #4) by Seanan McGuire - done 2/10/2021

Cast in Wisdom (Chronicles of Elantra #15) by Michelle Sagara - done 2/9/2021

He Shall Thunder in the Sky, Rattling the Heat in Deadwood

• Meat Cute: The Hedgehog Incident (Parasol Protectorate #0.75) by Gail Carriger - done 2/4/2021

"Number-2: The number 2 in Numerology has ties with the sacred Feminine. ... In modern terms, Two is the strong woman behind a man, in the backdrop aiding success."

Hmmm..... What's modern about that! 🤨

Nell wrote: ""Number-2: The number 2 in Numerology has ties with the sacred Feminine. ... In modern terms, Two is the strong woman behind a man, in the backdrop aiding success."

Hmmm..... What's modern about t..."

It's not my interpretation, Nell...I'd suggest skipping that task, if it bothers you so.

⚜️Trea wrote: "Nell wrote: ""Number-2: The number 2 in Numerology has ties with the sacred Feminine. ... In modern terms, Two is the strong woman behind a man, in the backdrop aiding success."

Hmmm..... What's m..."

I don't let things like that bother me. I found it ironic and worthy of note that this view was considered modern. On the other hand, there were matriarchal cultures in ancient times so in that respect maybe it is modern.

Level: Hard: 5-7 symbols completed

✔ Naming:  Read a book with a pearl, a mud puddle, or cut and stacked wood on the cover, or a book with the word cut, mud, or pearl in the title - The Dragon and the Pearl

✔ Zodiac: Aquarius until February 18-Water Bearer: Read a historical novel featuring someone who carries water or food to others - Jolene
✔ Zodiac: Pisces from February 19-The Fish: Read a book where a character catches at least two fish on a fishing trip, has at least two pet fish, or a book where there are two fish on the cover - Louisiana Longshot

✔ Gemstone - Amethyst: Read a book where a character is royalty or acts in a courageous manner - Crush the King

✔ Color-Purple- Purple : Read a book with a purple cover -

✔ Icons- Rowan and/or Ash Tree: Read a book featuring a change, a character that shows enthusiasm or inventiveness, or the stability or renewal of a character - A Ghoulish Midlife

✔ Number - 2: The number 2: Read a book where the character works in a service industry type job (Food service, Customer Service, Hospitality, etc) - Turkey in the Trap Room

✔ Themes - Black History Month, American Heart Month: Read a book by an African American Author - Zami: A New Spelling of My Name

✔ Spell Out Words:
F - Fortune Funhouse
E - Murder in the Paperback Parlor by Ellery Adams
B - Binti
R - Sword-Dancer by Jennifer Roberson
U - Unmarriageable
A - Murder in the Secret Garden by Ellery Adams
R - Sword-Singer by Jennifer Roberson
Y - Much Ado About You by Samantha Young

COMPLETE AT LEVEL: HARD
Symbols of the Month - February (6/4)
Duration: 2/1 - 2/28
Level: Medium: 2-4 symbols completed

How It Works:
★This will be a mix and match challenge, so pick your level, then pick your books.
★ There will be a list of symbols with prompts posted along with a list for spell outs. Your challenge is to complete as many or as few of them as you can in the given month.
★Spell out one or both of the listed words using Title (First letter of first word in the title only, but check the Do Not Count list below for exceptions!), Author Name (First and last only, no middle initials or names (unless noted)!), or Series Name (First letter of first word in the series name only, but check the Do Not Count list below for exceptions!). If using series name, be sure to add it next to your entry!!
★When using titles for letters, the words A, And, An, and The do not count.
★NO DUPLICATING BOOK OR TASK ENTRIES!! Books and Tasks are only to be used/listed/completed once!
★Re-reads are allowed, but all books must be at least 30 pages in length!
★You CAN change your Books at any time during the challenge.
♦Mark books as finished by adding the date finished next to the book listed and either striking them out using the "< s> < /s>" HTML commands (without the spaces) or by copying and pasting a checkmark: ✔ ✓
-- Information credits: https://www.buildingbeautifulsouls.co... and https://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnanc...

February Symbols:
Naming: There were some very descriptive names for February around the world. In Old English it was the mud month. In the Finnish language February is pearl month, probably alluding to the visual impact of ice and snow on everything. And Macedonians called it the month of cutting (i.e. harvesting wood). Read a book with a pearl, a mud puddle, or cut and stacked wood on the cover, or a book with the word cut, mud, or pearl in the title.

✓Zodiac: (each sign counts as 1 symbol) Aquarius until February 18-Water Bearer: Read a historical novel featuring someone who carries water or food to others or Pisces from February 19-The Fish (The Pisces sign symbol usually depicts two fish swimming in opposite directions and connected by a cord).: Read a book where a character catches at least two fish on a fishing trip, has at least two pet fish, or a book where there are two fish on the cover: Farley tries the wolves fish catching techniques with success, Never Cry Wolf: The Amazing True Story of Life Among Arctic Wolves by Farley Mowat (finished 2/3)

✓Gemstone-Amethyst: Amethyst is believed to bring the wearer courage, clarity and quick wit. The stone has long been associated with royalty in addition to myths and legends across many cultures. Read a book where a character is royalty or acts in a courageous manner: young Sarah recognizes danger and acts quickly to carry out her mothers work; The Secret of Van Rink's Cellar by Beverly Haskell Lee (finished 2/11)

✓Flower: Violet, Primrose: The violet stands for loyalty and faithfulness. Another February flower, a gift of a primrose lets the recipient know you can't live without them. Read a book with a violet or primrose on the cover or where a character is grateful, loyal, faithful, or says that they can't live without someone else: Percy Jackson is loyal and faithful to his friends; The Titan's Curse by Rick Riordan (finished 2/14)

Tree: Cypress, Poplar, Cedar, Pine: Read a book with one of these trees on the cover (Google the tree for images to match with your cover!)

Color-Purple: Purple was a hard to obtain from sources like shellfish in ancient times that it became the color for kings and the very wealthy. The idea that purple is a luxurious color remains to this day. Purple represents magic and spirituality in the metaphysical world. It vibrates with the energy of honor and inventiveness. Shades of purple also have various meanings. The light purple represents mirth and romance while dark shades embody logic and nobility. Psychologically children react to purple as a joyful color, free of worries. Read a book with a purple cover (any shade)

✓Icons- Rowan and/or Ash Tree: Ash represents change (perfect for this month), renewal and increased awareness. It is a marvelous tree for inventiveness and enthusiasm too. The Celts admired the Rowan tree for not only its beauty but also its durability. The general symbolic values given to Rowan include renewal, safety, positive change, stability, psychic awareness and health. One of the interesting things about Rowan trees is that they appear to thrive in the most unlikely locations, making the best of whatever spot they root! Read a book featuring a change, a character that shows enthusiasm or inventiveness, or the stability or renewal of a character: this book features all three, The Last Olympian by Rick Riordan (finished 2/21), my review is here

✓Number-2: The number 2 in Numerology has ties with the sacred Feminine. This is the energy of a peace keeper, filled with forgiveness and tact. Two’s language of love is service. To that end there is great humility in this number’s vibrations. In modern terms, Two is the strong woman behind a man, in the backdrop aiding success. February’s energy is never presumptuous in its lessons but it is present for good advice and a little shrewdness. Read a book where one character forgives another, is humble about an accomplishment or ability, aids another's success, or where the character works in a service industry type job (Food service, Customer Service, Hospitality, etc). Participants can also read a book published in February of any year or published in any month of 2002 for this task: one character forgives another, The Battle of the Labyrinth by Rick Riordan (finished 2/17), my review is here

✓Themes- Black History Month, American Heart Month: Read a book by an African American Author or that features African/African American characters prominently, or a romance novel for American Heart Month: Great Food, All Day Long: Cook Splendidly, Eat Smart: A Cookbook by Maya Angelou (finished 2/9)

Spell Out Words: February or Two

Symbols of the Month
February 2021

Naming: Read a book with a pearl, a mud puddle, or cut and stacked wood on the cover (pearl earrings)
Lady Be Good 02/13

Zodiac: Read a book where a character catches at least two fish on a fishing trip, has at least two pet fish, or a book where there are two fish on the cover

Gemstone: Read a book where a character is royalty or acts in a courageous manner
Lost Legacy 02/02

Flower: Read a book with a violet or primrose on the cover or where a character is grateful, loyal, faithful, or says that they can't live without someone else.
Buttercream Bump Off 02/04

Tree: Cypress, Poplar, Cedar, Pine: Read a book with one of these trees on the cover
Sealed Off 02/21

Color- Read a book with a purple cover (any shade)

Icons- Rowan and/or Ash Tree: Read a book featuring a change, a character that shows enthusiasm or inventiveness, or the stability or renewal of a character
Sugar and Vice 02/08

Number-2: Read a book where one character forgives another, is humble about an accomplishment or ability, aids another's success, or where the character works in a service industry type job (Food service, Customer Service, Hospitality, etc).
Doughnuts and Deception

Themes- Black History Month, American Heart Month: Read a book by an African American Author or that features African/African American characters prominently, or a romance novel for American Heart Month
Conflict of Interest 02/05

T - Threads of Evidence 02/10
W - Wife by Wednesday 02/13
O - One Corpse Too Many 02/11

Level: Medium

Amethyst-character is royalty: Ella Enchanted 22/2/21

Themes-Black History Month-a book by an African American Author or that features African/African American characters prominently: Deathless Divide 14/2/21

Zodiac-Pisces-a character catches at least two fish on a fishing trip: ?

Hmmm I thought I had already signed up--never know if it's my eyes or brain or fingers or bladder or or or---- Any way😜 l is here!

💖February💖

1.--Naming---Planting Pearls-Virginia King--17/Feb/21

2.-Zodiac--

3.--Gemstone--Amethyst---Educated(a memoir)--Tara Westover--13/Feb/21

4.--Flower---Promises and PRIMROSES - Josi S Kilpack 27/Feb/21

5.--Tree--Cedar--Cedar Pines Mystery #1--16 Lighthouse Road--Debbie Macomber--06/Feb/21

6.--Color--Purple Cover--English Tea Murder--Leslie Meire--8/Feb/21

7.--Icons--enthusiastic- inventive--Read And Buried--Eva Adams-12/Feb/21

8.--Number 2--pub.in 2020-The Book Of Candlelight--Ellery Adams--06/Feb/21

9.--Theme--African---02/Feb/21
In The Company Of Cheerful Ladies--Alexander MacCall Smith



Spell out

F.--
E.--
B.--(the)Broken Road by Richard Paul Evans---04/Feb/21
R.--
U.--
A.--
R.--
Y.--

T.--
W.--What Alice Forgot---Laine Moriaty--9/Feb/21
O.--one Thousand White Women--Jim Fergus--14/Feb/21

Symbols of the Month Challenge
February 2021

My Symbols of the Month Challenge (msg 20)

Books read: 16 of 18; remaining in March

Tasks



✔Naming
🔹Read a book with a pearl on the cover
🔹In Love Again - 02.21 ★★★★

✔Zodiac: Aquarius
🔹Read a historical novel featuring someone who carries water or food to others
🔹The Happiest Man In The Territory - 02.06 ★★★

✔Zodiac: Pisces
🔹Read a book where a character catches at least two fish on a fishing trip
🔹Meant to Be - 02.06 ★★★★

✔Gemstone: Amethyst
🔹Read a book where a character is royalty
🔹The Darkest King - 02.07 ★★★★

✔Flower: Violet, Primrose
🔹Read a book where a character is grateful, loyal, faithful
🔹Dark Sexy Knight - 02.27 ★★★★

✔Tree: Cypress, Poplar, Cedar, Pine
🔹Read a book with one of these trees on the cover
🔹Restless - 02.09 ★★★

✔Color: Purple
🔹Read a book with a purple cover (any shade)
🔹Guilty Pleasures - 03.28 ★★★★

✔Icons: Rowan and/or Ash Tree
🔹Read a book featuring a renewal of a character
🔹Three Sisters - 02.05 ★★★★

✔Number: 2
🔹Read a book where the character works in a service industry type job (Food service, Customer Service, Hospitality, etc)
🔹Not Quite Over You - 02.28 ★★★★

✔Themes: Black History Month, American Heart Month
🔹Read a book by an African American Author
🔹The Proposal - 02.20 ★★★★


Spell-out



✔🔹F Fatal Fraud - 02.01 ★★★★
✔🔹E Elaine Levine - Razed Glory - 03.05 ★★★★
✔🔹B Bound By Darkness - 02.12 ★★★★
✔🔹R Rain Shadow - 02.13 ★★★
✔🔹U Unspeakable - 02.26 ★★★★
✔🔹A Anita Mills - Secret Nights - 02.03 ★★★★
✔🔹R R Is for Rebel - 02.28 ★★★★
✔🔹Y York, Rebecca - On Edge - 02.24 ★★★

These are definitely going to be harder challenges this year with some fairly harder specific tasks on the lists. Two fish? I'm having to hunt deep to find fishing or pet fish much less where it specifically states 2! I may end up having to skip more than one task this month :-(

LaurLa wrote: "These are definitely going to be harder challenges this year with some fairly harder specific tasks on the lists. Two fish? I'm having to hunt deep to find fishing or pet fish much less where it sp..."

That's why I gave so many options for the fish...astrology symbols are going to be hard to match, which is another reason why I allow them to overlap too. Skipping symbols is perfectly fine if your reading doesn't match up with them...after all, these are supposed to challenge you, and wouldn't be any fun if they didn't!

Symbols of the Month - February Edition
February 1 -28, 2021

Level: Medium 2-4 symbols

February Symbols:

Naming: Read a book with a pearl, a mud puddle, or cut and stacked wood on the cover, or a book with the word cut, mud, or pearl in the title.

✔ Zodiac: Read a historical novel featuring someone who carries water or food to others. Read a book where a character catches at least two fish on a fishing trip, has at least two pet fish, or a book where there are two fish on the cover. Tidelands 2/7/21

Gemstone-Amethyst: Read a book where a character is royalty or acts in a courageous manner

✔ Flower: Violet, Primrose: Read a book with a violet or primrose on the cover or where a character is grateful, loyal, faithful, or says that they can't live without someone else. The Other Mrs. 2/9/21

Tree: Cypress, Poplar, Cedar, Pine: Read a book with one of these trees on the cover.

Color-Purple: Read a book with a purple cover (any shade)

✓ Icons- Rowan and/or Ash Tree: Read a book featuring a change, a character that shows inventiveness The Girl from Widow Hills - MC changes her name/reinvents herself - 2/19/21

Number-2: Read a book where one character forgives another, is humble about an accomplishment or ability, aids another's success, or where the character works in a service industry type job (Food service, Customer Service, Hospitality, etc). Participants can also read a book published in February of any year or published in any month of 2002 for this task.

Themes- Black History Month, American Heart Month: Read a book by an African American Author or that features African/African American characters prominently, or a romance novel for American Heart Month

Spell Out Words: February or Two
T
W - The Wife Upstairs 2/17/21
O


*Spell out - use Title (First letter of first word in the title only), Author Name (First and last only, no middle initials or names) or Series Name (First letter of first word in the series name only. If using series name, be sure to add it next to your entry.)

Can I use Never Sniff A Gift Fish by Patrick McManus--No fisfes on cover but a collection of humorous stories about fishing, hunting, and camping?

MSallyJ wrote: "Can I use Never Sniff A Gift Fish by Patrick McManus--No fisfes on cover but a collection of humorous stories about fishing, hunting, and camping?"

Does a character/author catch at least two fish on a fishing trip? If so, the book can be used. The task specifically states "Read a book where a character catches at least two fish on a fishing trip, has at least two pet fish, or a book where there are two fish on the cover", so as long as it meets one of those three things, it counts. If it doesn't have a character/author with two pet fish or catching two fish on a fishing trip, it won't count, since you said it has no fish on the cover.

⚜️Trea wrote: "That's why I gave so many options for the fish...astrology symbols are going to be hard to match, which is another reason why I allow them to overlap too. Skipping symbols is perfectly fine if your reading doesn't match up with them...after all, these are supposed to challenge you, and wouldn't be any fun if they didn't!"

Different definitions of fun :-) I'm not saying being challenged isn't fun but hard to find tasks can be a little frustrating month after month. I'll just have to redefine what it means for me to 'complete' the challenge each month. It's not fun for me to leave unfinished tasks dangling about... so I'll have to teach my OCD self that if I can't find the task or finish reading in time, the world won't end! :-o

LaurLa wrote: "Different definitions of fun :-) I'm not saying being challenged isn't fun but hard to find tasks can be a little frustrating month after month. I'll just have to redefine what it means for me to 'complete' the challenge each month. It's not fun for me to leave unfinished tasks dangling about... so I'll have to teach my OCD self that if I can't find the task or finish reading in time, the world won't end! :-o"

I had to teach myself the same lesson! I was pretty OCD about doing every task for every challenge I participated in...and I burned myself out doing it. That's why I started celebrating if someone just read 1 book in my challenges...because I found it so difficult to even read one book some months!

I finished 2/3 :)

Meira (readingbooksinisrael) wrote: "I finished 2/3 :)"

Congrats!

Completed 4/3 at msg #8

Nell wrote: "Completed 4/3 at msg #8"

Congrats!

Done! Managed to get most of the tasks (missed the fishes and the purple cover), and one spell-out. Quite enjoying these, thanks!

Finished for the month - no E to found anywhere this month anywhere in my books that I was able to read. Or purple - my favorite color even. Well I'll finish them eventually...
Updated post: My Symbols of the Month Challenge (msg 20)

Books read: 16 of 18; remaining read in March

Meg wrote: "Done! Managed to get most of the tasks (missed the fishes and the purple cover), and one spell-out. Quite enjoying these, thanks!"

Congrats!

LaurLa wrote: "Finished for the month - no E to found anywhere this month anywhere in my books that I was able to read. Or purple - my favorite color even. Well I'll finish them eventually...
Updated post: My Sym..."

Congrats!

Update message 16, completed with 6/4.
My goal was level medium, but I completed at level hard

Tania wrote: "Update message 16, completed with 6/4.
My goal was level medium, but I completed at level hard"

Congrats!