Here’s my contribution to the online obsession with listicles—an eclectic blend of tips, tricks, satire, and helpful collections to get you through the day.
Self care that doesn’t cost any extra
C’mon. I’d be lying if I said that “treat yo’ self” wasn’t my very favorite phrase in the entire world.
It is. I even hung the words up at our wedding, above our donut bar.
And now the sign hangs up in my office, right above my desk. It’s a kind and zesty reminder of how I want to live, and the goals in place to make that happen.
Why? Because that’s how I want to live: lavishly, with a lush, cushy, and comfortable set up. I want to give myself everything I deserve, starting and ending with all the treats my heart desires….Read more
My favorite holiday traditions

Christmas is a time that comes with a lot of baggage. Good and bad, we all have some.
For me and many others, the holidays come with a cheery rose-gold tint, filled with fond memories of family, fun gatherings, and spending time with loved ones. I can name so many Christmas memories that filled my heart with such warmth and connection. I’m lucky, and I know it.
Traditions have played a major role in preserving the magic of Christmas, though they haven’t all lasted. In some situations, it has been better that they’ve been left behind…Read more
Stocking Stuffers that Actually Make Sense
It’s #blogmas, which essentially means an entire month of bloggers sharing their welcomed wisdom, giving pinnable content regarding the holidays. There are reflections, suggestions, and a wealth of information—especially when it comes to gifting ideas; there are posts on just about every type of present and recipient. Gift guides galore.
I love it. There are so many brilliant and fresh ideas, and an original twist on classic holiday fare.
One thing I could do without, though, are unrealistic posts regarding stocking stuffers…Read more
Christmas quotes to get you in the holiday spirit
Have the warm feelings of the holidays taken a while to jump start this year? I’ve heard many people say that 2018 hurled by; so much so, it barely feels possible that fall is over, Thanksgiving has long passed, and Christmas is right around the corner. For some, the season has come with a flash and a blur, and hasn’t seemed very festive.
If that’s the case, it might be time to rev up those holiday engines. It’s the best time of the year: this season is pretty specifically about giving, appreciating one another, and being close with the people in our lives.
Sometimes I like to think about…Read more
5 Non-conventional Christmas Gift Ideas
A few years ago, I decided that for birthdays and anniversaries, my primary gift-giving focus would be on experiences. Sometimes I’d rather have a weekend getaway or spend my money on an excursion, adventure, or even a trip to a brewery, especially when it’s meant to celebrate a loved one on their special day.
I’ll save the “stuff” for Christmas, I said. That can be our time for “things,” I said. That can be a break from the super thoughtful effort that goes into planning and executing an experience, and a shift into material admiration instead.
Well, December is here, and here I am facing the reality of my promises…Read more
Affordable Touches of Christmas
Though I have always loved Christmas, it’s taken me a while to jump into the spirit of home decoration. Last year, Chad and I were still in recovery mode after our wedding, and getting into new routines, sorting out new traditions and family nuances. Before that, we were exhausted college students, and used our breaks purely for recovery.
This year, things are different. We are cannon-balling into the holidays, loud, proud, and full of that cheesy cheer.
For the first time ever, I’ve taken the initiative and added a few…Read more
10 Things to Pack for a Fall Camping Trip
In Colorado, the weather is unpredictable. It’s just as likely to snow on the same day that starts out 65 degrees and sunny. You know this, I know this, we all know this.
For some reason, though, my husband and I decided to try our luck at camping, during Colorado’s more vulnerable and unpredictable seasons: autumn.
Other states might have the luxury of a very defined fall, where temperatures start to slowly drop and snow does not rear its white glisten until the winter solstice. The leaves might just have time to fall, gently, and at their own pace, if you don’t live in a place with seasonal reckless abandon.
While that’s simply not the case in Colorado, there are definite perks…Read more
Marred at 22: Listicle Advice for Wedded Bliss
As a writer and former journalist, I think that list-articles—infamously known as ‘listicles’— are in no way, shape, or form a correct method of journalism. They are pretty much trash, that don’t require much thought or skill to compose and removes any need for critical thinking.
Personally, though, I quite enjoy reading listicles. Sometimes to unwind I read through Buzzfeed’s endless list of them, taking note…Read more