A personal reflection on the past year, intentional living, and looking forward with clarity, hope, and perspective — without resolutions or pressure.

My middle son came home from college last night. When I hugged him, I said “I get for you a whole week!!!” And he replied, “Actually, nine days, mom!” Nine days!!! Let’s make this count!

Some people start each year with a travel bucket list. I start mine with a travel bucket list and a live music bucket list.

A few weeks ago, summer was about to slip through my fingers without any notable fun for my kids. Between everyone’s work schedules, social calendars, and me feeling generally overwhelmed at the thought of planning something, we were down to the wire. With them getting older, time is fleeting and I didn’t want to miss out.

Winter—it’s like nature’s way of saying, “Hey, let’s test how many layers you can wear before you can’t move your arms.” But seriously, when the days get shorter and the cold creeps in, I feel it: the sluggishness, the “can I just stay inside until Spring” vibe, and the constant battle to stay motivated.

Winter may not be the traditional season for home improvement, but it’s actually the perfect time to tackle projects that can boost your home’s value.

Here we are—the final hours of 2024! And just like every other year around this time, I’m deep in my reflective feels. There’s a little regret sprinkled in, but there’s also a lot of gratitude and happiness.

Thanksgiving is my second favorite holiday behind Independence Day. As someone who loves to eat comfort food but isn’t crazy about mass gift giving, Thanksgiving was practically created just for me.

I wasn’t in a hurry to finish. I was enjoying my time in solitude - alone with my thoughts. I had only been gone 48 hours. If I’m being honest, some anxiety was creeping in about heading back to responsibilities.

After a solid night’s sleep, I woke up in Connellsville, ready to tackle the day ahead. I packed up my gear and made my way to the lobby for breakfast.

Biking the GAP Trail has been on my “someday” list for years—right up there with “swim lessons” and “learning to sing.”

There's something undeniably electric about the atmosphere of a live concert. The anticipation in the air, the moment the lights dim, and the first notes fill the room—it all creates a rush like no other. For me, live music isn’t just about the music. It’s about an escape from stress and spending time with my favorite people.

Mealtime shouldn’t be stressful. It should be a time to connect with your loved ones. Give these recipes a try and let me know what you think!

Early in the year, I stumbled onto a Facebook group about hiking the Grand Canyon - like from one side of it to the other.

My middle son, Evan, graduates tonight. And my emotions kind of snuck up on me. I mean, I know I’m an emotional person. Anyone who knows me, knows my emotions are big. But I’ve been kind of busy or maybe just burying my feelings for self preservation.

You know the episode of Friends with guest star, Alec Baldwin? Where everything is positive and amazing?

Valentine’s Day might get all the billing, but for me National Donor Day is a much bigger deal. National Donor Day is an observance dedicated to spreading awareness and education about organ, eye and tissue donation.