Category Archives: Fun

April 29, 2025 · 3:54 pm

🎧 Audible & A Morning Walk: My Favorite Way to Set the Mood for the Day

Some people drink coffee to start their day. Others scroll the news or head straight into work. Me? I grab my earbuds, lace up my shoes, and hit the pavement with Audible in my ears.

It’s become a little ritual I didn’t know I needed—part movement, part mindset, and a whole lot of mood-setting.

Here’s how it goes:
I step outside, press play, and suddenly I’m not just walking—I’m adventuring, learning, or laughing depending on the day’s book. Sometimes it’s a business book that fires me up. Other times it’s a novel that gives me an emotional warm-up before I face my inbox. And occasionally, it’s something just for fun—because joy counts, too.

There’s something magical about letting someone else tell you a story while the world slowly wakes up around you. The combination of fresh air, a good story, and moving your body is like hitting a giant reset button.

Why I love it:

  • It sets a positive, intentional tone before the noise of the day kicks in
  • I feel like I’ve accomplished something before 9 a.m.
  • My step count goes up and my stress levels go down
  • I actually look forward to mornings (who am I??)

Pro tip: Always download your audiobook ahead of time, especially if you like wandering into spotty service areas like I do. Learned that one the hard way.

So if you ever feel like mornings are a bit too… morning-y, give it a shot. Grab some earbuds, choose a book that excites you, and take a little stroll. You just might find it’s the best thing you’ve done for yourself all day.

*Audible- until tomorrow is $0.99 for the first 3 months- Auto-renews at $14.95/mo after 3 months. Cancel anytime. Offer ends April 30, 2025.

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April 25, 2025 · 5:16 pm

Water Bottles Are the New Handbags (And I Used to Drink from the Hose)

Let’s talk about the fashion statement of the decade: the water bottle.

Have you noticed? These things are full-blown accessories now. I’m not even mad about it—it’s just funny. Because once upon a time (cue the nostalgic music), we didn’t have matching 40 oz stainless steel hydration stations with rubber straws and pastel colors. We had… a garden hose.

Yes, I’m aging myself here—but I survived on hose water and Kool-Aid. And I turned out (mostly) fine.

Back then, water wasn’t this glamorous thing. We didn’t track ounces in an app or carry emotional support bottles with motivational time stamps like “You’re doing great!” or “Almost there!” No one clapped for us when we hydrated. We just… got thirsty and found a spigot.

Now? Water bottles come with entire personalities:

  • The Stanley Cup Girlies™ with color-coordinated gym fits.
  • The Minimalist Sipper with matte black sleekness and zero branding.
  • The Sticker Bombed Emotional Companion that doubles as a scrapbook.
  • The Gallon Jug Warrior—bless you, your biceps must be amazing.

And don’t get me wrong—I get it. We’re all out here trying to drink more water, be more mindful, and stay hydrated. And hey, if carrying around a trendy water bottle gets you there, do your thing!

But just for a second, let’s raise our BPA-free, insulated tumblers in a toast to a simpler time—when water was warm, slightly metallic, and came straight from the side of the house. Unfiltered. Unapologetic. Underrated.

Cheers to hydration, whatever your style.
And to the hose… thanks for the memories.

Owala

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Yeti

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Stanley

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April 24, 2025 · 6:23 pm

The 3 Easiest Ways to Keep a To-Do List That Actually Works

Let’s face it: to-do lists can be a double-edged sword. They’re meant to keep you organized and on track, but all too often, they end up feeling more overwhelming than helpful. The good news? There’s a better way to keep your to-do list from becoming a source of stress.

If you want your to-do list to actually work for you, not against you, here are three simple strategies to keep it effective, actionable, and easy to follow:

1. Break Tasks Into Bite-Sized Pieces

One of the biggest reasons to-do lists get overwhelming is when tasks are too vague or too big. “Finish project” or “Clean the house” are great ideas, but they’re not helpful in terms of execution. The key is to break down bigger tasks into smaller, specific actions.

Instead of writing “Finish project,” try:

  • Draft the outline.
  • Research key points.
  • Write the introduction.

Each step becomes its own task, making the process feel less intimidating. Plus, it gives you more moments of victory as you check things off!

2. Prioritize with the 3 Most Important Tasks (MITs)

A massive to-do list can easily turn into a never-ending scroll of tasks that feels impossible to conquer. Instead, focus on the “3 Most Important Tasks” (MITs) for the day.

Every morning, pick three things that are essential to move forward with your goals. These should be tasks that will have the biggest impact on your day, your career, or your personal life. Everything else is secondary. This prevents overwhelm and gives you a sense of purpose.

By the end of the day, if you’ve checked off your three most important tasks, you’ve had a productive day, no matter what else is left on the list.

3. Use Time Blocks, Not Just Checkboxes

It’s easy to get sucked into the trap of having a never-ending to-do list where you’re just checking boxes without truly doing the work. Time-blocking is the solution.

Instead of just saying, “Write report,” schedule a dedicated block of time: “Write report from 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM.” By allocating time for tasks, you’re giving yourself permission to focus fully on what’s at hand—without distractions—and you can avoid the temptation of jumping between tasks too quickly.

The point of a to-do list isn’t to overwhelm you with tasks but to make sure you stay focused on what truly matters. By breaking tasks into smaller chunks, prioritizing your most important tasks, and time-blocking for focused work, you’ll have a to-do list that works for you, not against you.

Remember, the best to-do list isn’t the one with the most items checked off—it’s the one that helps you achieve your goals, stay balanced, and feel in control.

Tools to help:

  • Noise-Cancelling Headphones
  • When time-blocking, it’s essential to have an environment free of distractions. Noise-cancelling headphones can help you concentrate better.
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  • Pomodoro Timer (Digital or Mechanical)
  • Time-blocking works best with a timer, and a Pomodoro timer can keep you focused on your tasks with intervals of work and breaks.
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April 23, 2025 · 4:21 pm

The Power of My Favorite Pen

You know how some people have a lucky hat, or a favorite mug that makes their morning coffee just a bit better? For me, it’s my blue pen. Not just pen—the pen. Smooth, just the right weight, no smudging, and a perfect ink that makes even my grocery list look important.

I don’t know when I first picked it up, but since then, it’s been my go-to for everything. To-do lists? Blue pen. Doodling during long calls? Blue pen. Signing something official like a birthday card or a Post-it note reminding myself to water the plants? You guessed it—blue pen.

There’s something about the ritual of uncapping it, the glide across paper, the satisfying loop of an “L” or the flourish of a signature. It’s not about the pen, really. It’s the small joy it brings. The way it makes ordinary things feel a little more special.

Maybe it’s silly to love a pen this much. But life’s made of small moments, and if a $2 writing utensil can make my day 5% better, I’ll call that a win.

Now if only I could stop losing it under stacks of paper…

This is my favorite pen!

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April 22, 2025 · 3:19 pm

How to Giggle: Choosing Joy in a World That Takes Itself Too Seriously

When was the last time you really laughed—like, full-belly, can’t-catch-your-breath, tears-in-your-eyes kind of laughed?

If you had to think about it, it’s been too long.

It feels like we are constantly pushed to be serious, productive, and endlessly busy, How to Giggle: A Guide to Taking Life Less Seriously is a breath of fresh air. It’s not just a book—it’s a mindset shift. A permission slip to loosen up, lighten the load, and invite joy back into your daily life.

Laughing Is Not a Luxury—It’s a Life Skill

This book reminds us that giggling isn’t just for kids. It’s a powerful tool for staying grounded and resilient in a world that often feels heavy. When we take ourselves a little less seriously, we open the door to creativity, connection, and even healing.

Let Go of the Pressure to Be Perfect

One of the biggest lessons from How to Giggle is that perfectionism is overrated. The author encourages readers to embrace the messiness of life, laugh at their own mistakes, and stop comparing their behind-the-scenes to someone else’s highlight reel.

Because let’s be honest—nobody has it all together. And if they say they do, they’re probably overdue for a good giggle themselves.

Find the Funny in the Ordinary

You don’t need a comedy show to laugh more. Sometimes, humor hides in the mundane: a kitchen fail, an awkward moment, or a random conversation that spirals into silliness. How to Giggle teaches us to stay open to the ridiculous, the unexpected, and the beautifully imperfect.

Takeaway: Lighten Up to Level Up

Living your hero life doesn’t mean you have to be serious all the time. In fact, lightening up might just be the secret to going further. Giggling doesn’t mean you don’t care—it means you’ve chosen joy, even when life doesn’t hand it to you easily.

So here’s your challenge today:
Laugh a little more. Let something go. Dance in your kitchen. Tell a joke, even if it’s terrible. And if all else fails—just smile at the absurdity of it all.

Because life’s too short not to giggle.

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April 18, 2025 · 7:35 pm

When Good Intentions Don’t Go as Planned – And That’s Okay

We’ve all been there. You sign up for something with the best of intentions. For me, it was a meal plan subscription. The idea was simple: make dinnertime easier, save time, reduce stress, and maybe even discover some new favorite recipes along the way. Sounds like a win, right?

But here’s the truth—I never used it. Not once. The emails piled up, the ingredients went unbought, and each passing day left me with a twinge of guilt. I spent money on something that didn’t work for me, and for a while, all I could focus on was the waste.

But now, with a little perspective, I’m seeing it differently. And if you’ve ever done something similar—whether it’s a gym membership, a course, or a subscription—you’re not alone. Here are the takeaways I’ve gathered:

1. It’s Okay to Try and Miss

Sometimes we won’t know if something fits until we try. Not everything is going to be the magic solution. Just because it didn’t work this time doesn’t mean the idea was bad or that you failed.

2. Be Kind to Yourself

We’re often our own harshest critics. Spending money on something that didn’t work can feel like a waste, but it was an investment in your intention to make life better. That’s still valuable.

3. Use It As Feedback

Clearly, something about that system didn’t match my lifestyle. That’s not a dead end—it’s data. Now I know I need a simpler approach, or maybe something more flexible. That’s useful insight for next time.

4. Just Because It Didn’t Work Now Doesn’t Mean It Won’t Ever

Sometimes the timing just isn’t right. I may revisit a meal plan system later—when life is a little less hectic or my routines are more structured.

5. You’re Still Making Progress

Even the “wrong turns” are part of the journey. You learned something. You moved forward. And that matters.

So if you’re feeling disappointed in yourself over something that didn’t go as planned—pause, take a deep breath, and be proud that you tried. Life is messy. Growth isn’t linear. But the effort to simplify, to improve, to care for yourself and your family? That matters.

And maybe tonight’s dinner will still be cereal and toast. That’s okay too. 😉

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April 11, 2025 · 3:01 pm

Adding Meditation to Your Daily To-Do List

We’re all familiar with the endless to-do list: reply to emails, return client calls, schedule showings, cook dinner, walk the dog. It’s easy to let the day take control and push your peace of mind to the bottom of the list—if it makes it on there at all.

But what if, tucked between “drop off package” and “review listings,” you added one powerful task: meditate.

Why Meditation Deserves a Spot on Your List

Meditation isn’t about escaping the world—it’s about grounding yourself in it. Just five to ten minutes a day can reduce stress, improve focus, and help you respond rather than react. For business owners, parents, professionals, and anyone simply trying to do their best, that kind of clarity is gold.

It Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated

You don’t need incense, a cushion, or total silence. You just need to pause. Sit still. Breathe in. Breathe out. You can use a guided meditation app, a calming playlist, or simply focus on your breath.

Start Small

Try writing “Meditate – 5 min” on your planner or task list. Treat it like a non-negotiable appointment. Over time, it becomes less of a task and more of a treasured reset.

A Little Stillness Can Change a Lot

With all the noise around us, taking a moment to tune in can bring surprising strength. You’ll show up more centered, more creative, and more present—not just for your work, but for your life.

So go ahead. Add “meditate” to your list. And check it off with pride.

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April 10, 2025 · 5:50 pm

When Support Feels Missing from Those Who Matter Most

Sometimes, the people you expect to be your biggest cheerleaders—the ones who should be in your corner—aren’t. It stings. It feels lonely. And it makes you question everything.

You might be pursuing a new path, chasing a goal, or making a decision that feels right in your soul… but the support you crave just isn’t showing up the way you hoped. Instead of encouragement, you might get silence, skepticism, or even criticism.

Here’s the hard truth: not everyone will understand your journey. And that’s okay.

1. They Might Not See What You See

People often react through the lens of their own fears and limitations. If they wouldn’t take the same leap you’re taking, they might not understand why you’re doing it. Their doubt isn’t always about you—it’s often about them.

2. Validation is Nice, But Not Necessary

You don’t need everyone’s approval to keep going. The strength to keep showing up for your dream—even without applause—is part of what builds resilience. Let your belief in yourself be louder than their silence.

3. Support Can Come From Unexpected Places

Sometimes the best support comes from new connections—mentors, peers, or people who’ve walked a similar path. Stay open. Your “tribe” may be waiting in the next chapter.

4. Turn the Hurt Into Fuel

Instead of letting the lack of support break you down, let it light a fire. Show up. Do the work. Let your growth speak volumes.

You don’t need the world to believe in you to begin. Just one person will do—and that person is you.

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April 9, 2025 · 5:21 pm

Sometimes You Just Need a Good Cry

You ever have one of those days where the smallest thing sets you off? Like dropping your toast—jelly side down—or realizing your favorite mug is in the dishwasher again? Yeah, we’ve all been there. And sometimes, when the world gets just a little too loud, the best remedy isn’t a deep breath or a motivational quote—it’s a good, old-fashioned cry.

Not the dramatic, movie-scene kind of cry. Just a “let-it-out-because-life-is-a-lot” kind of cry. The one that comes with a blanket, a pint of ice cream (or a bag of chips if you’re feeling salty), and maybe a favorite comfort movie playing in the background.

Crying isn’t weakness—it’s maintenance. It’s like an emotional car wash for your soul. You go in covered in grime and frustration, and come out feeling just a little lighter, a little more human, and surprisingly ready to face the next round.

So if the dam breaks and the tears fall, don’t apologize. Embrace it. Water your inner garden. And remember—sometimes the best way to pull it together is to fall apart for just a moment.

Then wipe your eyes, laugh at how dramatic you were, and keep going. Because you’ve got this. (And the toast wasn’t even that good anyway.)

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April 7, 2025 · 4:08 pm

Sit Up Straight—Your Monday Morning Reminder

It’s Monday morning, and I just caught myself hunched over my desk like a question mark. Sound familiar? Whether you’re diving into emails or sipping that first cup of coffee, posture often takes a backseat. But sitting up straight doesn’t just help your back—it boosts confidence, improves focus, and makes you feel more in control of your day.

Here are 3 simple ways to remind yourself to sit up straight:

1. Set a Posture Timer

Use your phone, watch, or computer to set a gentle reminder every 30 minutes. A soft buzz can be all it takes to do a quick posture check. Sit tall, roll your shoulders back, and realign your spine—it takes 5 seconds but can reset your entire body and mindset.

2. Create a Visual Cue

Place a sticky note on your monitor that says “Sit Tall” or “Posture Check.” You could even draw a little stick figure standing proud. Seeing that visual cue throughout the day is a subtle, but powerful, nudge to adjust your posture.

3. Adjust Your Workspace

If your chair or desk setup encourages slouching, it’s time for a mini-makeover. Keep your screen at eye level, feet flat on the floor, and use a small pillow or rolled-up towel for lower back support. When your space supports good posture, it becomes the default.

Sitting up straight might not change everything about your Monday—but it can give you a fresh start, a little more energy, and a reminder that you’re showing up for yourself today.

You’ve got this. One posture check at a time. 💪

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