Monday, January 20, 2025

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Listening to the audiobook "From Here to the Great Unknown," I anticipated a journey through the glamorous yet tumultuous lives of one of music's most iconic families. I didn't expect the profound resonance I found with my own experiences—realizing that grief and life itself, in their deep and unyielding grasp, recognize no boundaries of fame or fortune. The emotional impact of this realization was deeply moving.

Lisa Marie Presley and Riley Keough beautifully weave a narrative that lays bare the universal nature of human emotions and relational challenges. Their experiences, particularly Lisa Marie's recounting of her marriage to Michael Jackson, are not just celebrity stories but reflections of the human condition. This relatability made me feel understood, as I've experienced similar emotional distancing and adopted similar behaviors in my relationships. It's a stark reminder of how relationships shape us.

Lisa Marie's dreams of her late father, Elvis, also struck a chord with me. She dreamt of trying to warn him about his death, mirroring dreams I've had of my late husband, James, where he hadn't really passed away. These dreams capture the book's essence, illustrating how the specter of loss lingers and shapes every aspect of our lives thereafter.

Enriched by Julia Roberts' compelling delivery of Lisa Marie's words, Riley Keough's narration added a profound layer of authenticity and emotion. Riley's eloquence and clarity in sharing her and her mother's stories allowed the emotions to resonate deeply with the listener.


"From Here to the Great Unknown" is more than a memoir; it is a testament to the shared experience of grief that transcends the divide between the public and the private, the ordinary and the extraordinary. It reminded me that behind the veneer of celebrity, the heartaches are as accurate and profound as they are for any of us. This book is a must-read for anyone who has felt the shadow of a loved one's absence, offering reassurance that we are not alone in our journeys through mourning and memory. It's a connection we all share.

Buy the book here.

Friday, January 17, 2025

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Hey everyone! I'm excited to share my latest learning adventure with all of you. I've recently joined MasterClass, an incredible online platform that offers courses taught by true masters in various fields. And the best part? I have a special referral code that gives you a 14-day free trial to explore what MasterClass has to offer. Trust me, you're going to love it!

Why MasterClass?

The uniqueness of MasterClass lies in its instructor lineup—you're not just learning the ropes of the trade; you're learning from the very best in the business. We're talking about legends sharing their expertise and experiences directly with you in beautifully produced videos that are as informative as they are inspiring.




My Journey with MasterClass

I kicked off my MasterClass journey with none other than the queen of lifestyle herself, Martha Stewart. Martha's class is a treasure trove of wisdom from her daily life. Each lesson is packed with insightful, actionable content that feels like you're receiving wisdom from a wise friend. Whether you're looking to perfect your pie crust or organize your home like a pro, Martha guides you easily and elegantly.

I'm currently delving into the world of writing with R.L. Stine, the master of children's horror and thrillers. His lessons provide a fascinating look into crafting stories that captivate and thrill, with practical advice on developing plots and building suspense that keeps readers turning the pages.


A Special Offer Just for You!

Here's where it gets even better—I've got a special offer for those of you who are curious to explore this rich world of knowledge. Use my referral code to sign up for MasterClass, and you'll get a 14-day free trial. It's a fantastic opportunity to browse through various classes and learn from your favorites at no initial cost.


MasterClass has something for everyone. Whether you're interested in cooking, writing, photography, or even space exploration, a MasterClass is waiting to unfold all its secrets to you.



Ready to Start Your Learning Adventure?

If you're as excited as I am about lifelong learning and growth, then MasterClass is the place to be. With my referral code, you can start your 14-day free trial today. Dive into lessons from experts, soak up their knowledge, and apply it to your own life or career. The insights you gain here can indeed be transformative.


I can't wait to hear about your experiences and what classes you've enjoyed the most. So, don't forget to share your journey with me in the comments below or on social media. Happy learning!

Wednesday, January 15, 2025

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Life is full of surprises—some sweet, some bitter. Lately, I've been feeling the bitter side as I face waves of grief that come crashing back, even three years after losing my husband, James. It's clear now that grief doesn't follow a timetable or fade away completely. It shifts, changes, and sometimes hits harder than before, making me reflect on the times we could have shared together.


Grief Doesn't Clock Out


On tough days, I catch myself being hard on myself, thinking, "It's been three years; shouldn't I be past this?" But grief isn't something that ends. While the initial shock isn't as sharp, the heart doesn't easily forget the "what ifs" and lost shared moments that linger, especially during times when I miss having James by my side.


A Sign in a Song


Sometimes, just when I need it most, life throws me a little nudge to keep going. Recently, there was a song by Dylan Scott called "What He'll Never Have." It felt like it was played just for me, perfectly capturing the essence of James's spirit. James was always a giver, never hesitating to lend a hand. The song reminded me that he wanted me to continue embracing life, sharing our dreams, and accepting that our unique love is irreplaceable.


Moving Forward Without Moving On

James encouraged me to live fully and find happiness again, even in his absence. That means moving forward, not moving on. Our love was ours alone, crafted by moments and memories no one else can replicate. Accepting that my path has veered in new directions is challenging but crucial. Life and love can still be fulfilling—just in a new and different way.


Conclusion: Embracing the Journey

Each day offers a fresh chance to heal, learn, and find joy. Though I revisit the depths of grief at times, I also encounter signs of hope and new beginnings. My journey through grief is about integrating this experience into my life, allowing it to shape me without defining me. As I navigate this complex emotional landscape, I am reminded of life's enduring beauty and the promise of new opportunities.

Monday, January 13, 2025

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Hey there, Besties! 🌟


You know, I'm not usually into astrology, but when I saw that 2025 is being called the year for creatives, I had to dive in. The stars are apparently aligning to inspire bold ideas and meaningful projects and turning those dreamy "what if" moments into reality. Whether you're a painter, writer, designer, or just someone who loves dabbling in creative pursuits, this year's astrological vibes have your back.


Here's what's happening in the cosmos and how you can ride the energy to boost your creativity:


Dream Big (January to March)

Neptune, the planet of dreams and imagination, is hanging out in Pisces until March 30. This means it's prime time to channel your inner daydreamer and explore emotional or spiritual themes in your work. Here's what to do:

  • Journal your big ideas (yes, even the weird ones!).
  • Start a project that feels personal and meaningful.
  • Play around with abstract or dreamy concepts in your art.

Pro Tip: Don't stress about finishing anything yet. This is your brainstorming phase—let your imagination wander.


Fresh Starts (After March)

When Neptune moves into Aries, it's go-time! Aries energy is all about bold moves and fresh starts. If you've been sitting on a creative idea, now's your moment to:

  • Launch that passion project you've been daydreaming about.
  • Push yourself to try something totally new and exciting.
  • Get out of your comfort zone with daring, expressive work.

Pro Tip: Don't overthink it. Aries loves action, so dive in and refine as you go.


Make It Real (All Year)

Saturn is hanging out in Pisces all year, strengthening your creative dreams. Think of it as a cosmic reminder to:

  • Set realistic goals and stay consistent.
  • Build habits that keep your creative momentum going.
  • Finally tackle those half-finished ideas collecting dust.

Pro Tip: Even 15 minutes a day can add up to something incredible. Make creativity a habit!




Reflect and Revamp (Summer)

Venus retrograde in Leo (July 26 to September 8) is like a cosmic timeout to rethink your creative direction. Use this time to:

  • Refresh old projects and give them a new twist.
  • Take a good look at your creative brand or aesthetic.
  • Rest and recharge so you're ready to shine later.

Pro Tip: When Venus goes direct, you'll feel ready to share your creations with confidence and flair.


Experiment and Play (Fall)

With Jupiter entering Gemini after May, the vibe becomes light, curious, and playful. This is your chance to:

  • Explore new mediums, styles, or techniques.
  • Team up with other creatives for fun collaborations.
  • Take classes or workshops to expand your skills.

Pro Tip: Gemini loves variety, so don't be afraid to juggle a few projects at once. Keep it fun and fresh!


Reflect on Your Journey (End of Year)

As the year winds down, you'll feel a pull to reflect on how far you've come. With the North Node entering Pisces, it's a time to:

  • Create work that feels deeply authentic and meaningful.
  • Think about the story you want to tell through your art.

Pro Tip: Let your unique experiences and voice shine. The world needs your story.




The Big Takeaway

2025 is all about embracing bold ideas, starting fresh, and letting your creativity soar. The stars are cheering you on whether you're dreaming up new projects, exploring different styles, or finally finishing that half-done masterpiece. So trust your gut, lean into the cosmic vibes, and create something magical.


What are you most excited to create in 2025? Let me know in the comments below—I'd love to hear your plans!


Shop creative items! 

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Monday, January 06, 2025

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Hey there, Besties! 🌟 


Have you ever felt like your mind is a browser with 100 tabs open? If you're anything like me, keeping track of all those fleeting creative ideas can be a bit like herding cats. So, I've started a new routine that I'm super excited to share with you: my daily brainstorming sessions! 🌈✍️


Why I Started Daily Brainstorming Sessions

As the years tick by, I've noticed it's getting trickier to keep all my quirky thoughts and project ideas from slipping through the cracks. To stop forgetting and start organizing, I've dedicated a small chunk of my day solely to unleashing and untangling my thoughts. It's like a little daily detour into the fun and wild landscape of my mind.


How I Structure My Sessions

Each day, I set aside 15-30 minutes for what I call my "creative unloading zone." During this time, I jot down everything buzzing in my brain. These aren't just any notes; they're the seeds of future projects, blog posts, and those "aha!" moments that hit you when you least expect them.


Here's what a typical session looks like:

  • Timing is everything: I find that mornings work best for me right after my first cup of tea when my mind is fresh.
  • No Idea Too Small: I write down anything and everything, from a new gardening tip I want to try to a DIY project that might just be my next big blog post.
  • Inspiration Hunting: I also spend a bit of time online, browsing Pinterest, Instagram, and other blogs for inspiration. Seeing how others tackle problems gives me new perspectives and ideas that I can adapt in my own unique way.


Benefits of Brainstorming Daily

  • Clearer Mind, Better Focus: This practice helps me clear the mental clutter, making room for focused thoughts on more complex daily tasks.
  • Never Miss a Beat: By keeping a running list of ideas, I never have to kick myself for forgetting that brilliant midnight brainwave from last week.
  • Boosted Creativity: Regularly setting time to think divergently has noticeably boosted my creativity. It's easier now to connect the dots between seemingly unrelated ideas.

Tips for Starting Your Own Brainstorming Routine

  1. Choose Your Best Time: Identify when you're most alert and least likely to be interrupted. It could be early morning, late at night, or right after lunch.
  2. Keep It Fun: Use tools and apps that you enjoy using—whether it's a fancy notebook or a colorful app on your phone—to make the process more enjoyable.
  3. Make It a Habit: Like any good habit, consistency is key. Try to stick to the same time every day to build a routine that feels as natural as brushing your teeth.

Wrapping It Up

Daily brainstorming has truly been a game changer for me, turning the chore of remembering into an exciting dive into my creative depths each day. If you've been feeling overwhelmed by your own swirl of ideas, why not give it a whirl? You might find that a little daily brainstorming opens up a world of creativity you didn't know you had!

Catch you in the next brainstorm, Besties! Keep those ideas flowing! 🌊📝



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