Awake O Sleeper

26/01/2026

I wanted to share a summary of one of my research papers from my studies. I hope you enjoy!

I wanted to understand how the Maccabean Revolt transformed into the Hasmonean Kingdom. Specifically, I asked:

How was Judas Maccabeus able to convince his fellow countrymen to become more than just a revolt?

What specific actions did the Hasmonean leaders take that led to the formation of an actual state?

What happened in Judea between 167-63 B.C.E. that changed everything?

21/01/2026

Here is a snippet from "Dawn", a poem from my digital chapbook Shall Fear No Evil.

I breathe in a new kind of dawn

rising above the clouds

and feeling

less wind than I

ever have before

the sun is brighter

I am charged with the energy found

in something not my own

for my strength does not come from

myself

Read the full poem using the link in the comments!

15/01/2026

I think 2026 is the Year of Eowyn. I've compiled some quotes that might serve as my mantra this year. :)

07/01/2026

I wanted to talke about memory, faith, and recalling you life for the benefit of your own spiritual wellbeing.

Link in the comments

01/01/2026

Two photos that wrap up the year for me! Chilly Santa and warm sunny beaches. I wouldn't have it any other way.

My December newsletter is posted. Check it out in the comments :)

Happy New Year!

31/12/2025

I recently finished reading Yumi and the Nightmare Painter by Branden Sanderson. This book was recommend to me by my best friend. I have to say, it was a wonder and fresh take on fantasy and novel writing. I have often felt burdened by the 4-5 book series. It was lovely to read a one-off story and have a satisfying ending. Here are some of my favorite quotes...

24/12/2025

Another triolet poem to practice some rhyming schemes :) Find the full poem in the link in the comments.

17/12/2025

Another look into how to live well, keep your head on your sholders and work through nagging emotions.

https://leonacicone.wixsite.com/awake-o-sleeper/post/being-angry-with-myself

11/12/2025

November has come and gone, but I don't mind. Christmas is around the corner!

My Novermber wrap-up newsletter is out and about for your reading leisure. The link is in the comments!

01/11/2025

Time for my monthly newsletter!

October brought lots of sunny weather and fall festivites. I even got to go camping!

Thanks to all who made this month special :)

01/10/2025

September, how I enjoyed those warm summer nights, loud thunderstorms, and moments in the rain.

My monthly newsletter has been sent! You can read it with the link below!

Oh for a thousand tongues to sing my great Redeemer’s praise

05/09/2025

August has flown into the past! And my August newsletter is now sent!

I have set up a Substack for the newsletter so hopefully it is more accessible :)

https://awakeosleeper.substack.com/p/august-wrap-up