Walking Each Other Home

There's a quote that hits different for me now: "We're all just walking each other home." Life's a path, sometimes smooth, often bumpy, where we meet souls who walk with us and share our pace, maybe only for a moment, maybe for miles. James was my fellow traveler, the soul you pray to walk a lifetime with, but our physical journey was cut short.

Cherished Moments

Every step and every moment I spent with James was filled with life—vibrant, loving, and real. Our time might have been shorter than I envisioned, but we lived a lifetime's worth in those moments. His laughter, his strength during his fight with melanoma, and his undying spirit have left imprints on my heart that guide me every day.

A Legacy Carried Forward

Facing melanoma head-on, James showed a resilience that was nothing short of heroic. We found joy in the smallest things—shared smiles, quiet evenings, and the strength in each other's presence. These are the memories I hold onto, the ones that light my path as I continue this walk, a bit more solitary than before.

Conclusion

Losing James was hard, and it still is. But if love teaches us anything, it never really leaves us. As I mark this third anniversary of his passing, I find comfort in knowing that our journey together continues in ways I'm still discovering. His legacy is not just in the past but in every step I take forward, every piece of myself I share here with you.

Parting Words

Remember to extend grace because we're all just walking each other home. Let's walk this path with kindness, understanding, and love for those who journey alongside us.

I'll be the first to admit that I'm not a home décor natural. But since tossing out the so-called rules and doing my own thing, I've found my groove. Here's a breakdown of my latest thrift haul and how each piece fits into my evolving style

Frames: A Thrifter's Best Friend

I never leave a good thrift store frame behind. While Dollar Tree frames are budget-friendly, they often break or fall apart on me. That's why I always opt for thrifted frames when I can find them. They're usually better quality, super affordable, and easily customized to fit any style. Whether painting or leaving them as-is, these frames are staples for filling up my wall space.

Mass-Produced Décor with a Twist

I'll admit it: I love a good Hobby Lobby inspiration session. But instead of buying brand-new pieces, I like finding similar styles at the thrift store for a fraction of the price. Adding mass-produced items into my home is fine by me, as long as I can blend them with one-of-a-kind pieces. This approach keeps my space looking unique, unlike something you can just copy-paste from a catalog.

Metal Accents: My Secret Weapon

Here's a quirky little fact about me—I'm obsessed with metal décor. I'll spray-paint it in whatever color works for my space, transforming something generic into something distinctly "me." Metal pieces are often sturdy, easy to upcycle, and bring a bit of texture to my walls.

Ready-to-Customize Finds

Some of my favorite thrift finds are what I call "blanks"—decorative items just waiting to be personalized. While I'm not a Cricut pro, I love crafting the occasional vinyl quote or design to make a piece truly one of a kind. Finding these blank canvases at the thrift store saves me money and gives me an excuse to unleash my creativity.

A Touch of Creepy Charm

Maybe it's my Halloween-loving heart, but I have a soft spot for eerie, offbeat artwork. Creepy little pictures add a unique vibe to my home and keep things from feeling too predictable. Whether it's a vintage portrait with mysterious vibes or a dark, moody landscape, these pieces bring character and a bit of edge to my space.

Embracing My Style, One Thrift Find at a Time

Redecorating my walls with thrifted treasures has been a journey of self-discovery. I'm curating a home that reflects my personality by blending cheap frames, metal accents, and even a touch of creepy charm. Check out your local thrift stores if you want to shake things up in your own space. Who knows? Your next perfect piece might be waiting for you on a dusty shelf.

What's your favorite thrift store find? Let me know in the comments or share your decorating tips—I'd love to hear them!

The holiday season rolls in with shimmering lights, heartwarming carols, and the promise of joyful gatherings. Yet, beneath the festive veneer, each of us navigates this time differently, carrying our own stories and struggles. As we dive into the season, it's essential to remember that the picture-perfect holidays portrayed in movies and ads are often far from reality for many. This year, let's redefine what the holidays mean by embracing them on our own terms and extending grace to those around us.

The Many Faces of the Holiday Season

For some, the holiday season brings a bustling home filled with family and laughter. For others, it may be a quieter reflection time or even a period of profound loneliness. And then some find the holidays remind them of what or whom they've lost. The spectrum of experiences is broad and varied, and that's okay. Whether you're in a season of celebration or mourning or somewhere in between, it's important to honor your feelings without guilt.

You Do You: Celebrating Without the Guilt

If the thought of holiday parties and extended family dinners makes you cringe or can't face putting up decorations this year, that's perfectly fine. Feel free to skip the traditional activities if they don't bring you joy or peace. Instead, consider what makes you feel content and centered. It could be a quiet evening with a good book, a movie marathon, or a peaceful walk in nature. This holiday, give yourself the gift of doing what feels right.

Extending Grace and Understanding

Extending grace to others is equally important as we seek to honor our feelings. Everyone you meet faces their own challenges, some visible and some not. The colleague who seems grumpy at the office party might be dealing with personal issues we can't see. The friend who cancels plans at the last minute may be overwhelmed by more than they can express.

This season, let's practice nonjudgment and kindness. Instead of expecting others to live up to an idealized version of holiday cheer, let's allow space for real, human experiences—complete with imperfections and struggles.

A Nonjudgmental Season is a Season of True Joy

When we let go of judgments and embrace the holiday season with an open heart, we create a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone. This approach enhances our experience and lightens the load of others who might feel pressured to conform to societal expectations.

Conclusion: Crafting a Holiday That Resonates with You

Remember that it's okay to celebrate in a way that resonates with you this holiday season. There's no need to conform to a standard that doesn't fit your reality. Instead, embrace your own traditions (or create new ones) and offer compassion and understanding to those around you. By doing so, you cultivate a season filled with genuine warmth and grace—true to the spirit of the holidays.

Remember, the best holiday is one where you feel true to yourself, surrounded by peace and understanding, whether in solitude or company.

Last week, a tragedy struck close to home when a friend's sister was tragically murdered by her partner. This heartbreaking event has compelled me to address a topic that often remains veiled behind the facades of normalcy and smiles—domestic violence.

Domestic violence, or intimate partner violence, affects millions, cutting across age, race, gender, and socioeconomic status. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV), on average, nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the United States. This equates to more than 10 million men and women over the course of a year.

The Complexity of Domestic Violence

The suggestion that victims should "just leave" the relationship oversimplifies the profound and complex dynamics involved in domestic violence. It often comes from those fortunate enough never to have experienced such terror. The truth is that escaping an abusive relationship is not just a matter of walking out the door. Factors such as fear, financial dependency, social stigma, isolation, and even love can profoundly impact a victim's ability to leave.

From my own experience in a toxic relationship during high school, I can testify to the confusion and despair it breeds. How can someone who claims to love you also inflict such pain? Abuse is insidious, creeping into the relationship slowly, making it difficult for victims to recognize and respond to the escalating danger.

The Cycle of Abuse

The pattern of domestic violence often follows a cycle. Initially, tension builds, leading to an incident of abuse, which may then be followed by a period of remorse and a deceitful, calm phase, often referred to as the 'honeymoon period.' This cycle makes leaving difficult, as hope for change can be desperately convincing.

Victims stay for myriad reasons: fear of further violence, concern for children, financial dependency, or the hope that their partner will change. Critically, emotional attachment and loyalty should not be underestimated. It is not uncommon for victims to feel responsible for their partner's actions, blaming themselves due to the psychological manipulation by the abuser.

Breaking the Silence

Creating a supportive environment where victims can speak out without fear of judgment or retribution is not just important; it's essential. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, it's crucial to seek help. Organizations like the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-SAFE (7233) & thehotline.org) offer confidential support and resources.

Domestic violence should never be a private issue. It's a societal problem that demands public attention and collective action. We can make a difference by educating ourselves and others, advocating for stronger protections, and supporting victims. Remember, what appears as a fairytale facade can often be a living nightmare. Let's commit to being allies who lift the veil on these hidden turmoils.

Hey Besties! 🌟

August was a monumental month for me as I dove headfirst into the world of audiobooks, consuming a whopping 21 titles! I've found audiobooks to be a fantastic way to multitask while indulging in my love for stories. Here's a glimpse into my month-long auditory adventure and why I think you might want to listen to some of these books.

Why I Chose Audiobooks

With a busy lifestyle, sitting down with a physical book can be a challenge, so audiobooks have become my go-to. They allow me to enjoy books while gardening, renovating, or even during my thrift store hunts. This month, my selections were largely inspired by Reese's Book Club and trending titles on the Libby app. It's like having a conversation with the characters and authors themselves, making mundane tasks so much more enjoyable.

Top Picks from August

Here’s a list of the books that kept me company, with my top favorites marked with an asterisk (*). Whether you're looking for inspiration, a gripping mystery, or a transformative self-help book, there's something here for everyone:

• A Child Called "It" by Dave Pelzer
• *I'm Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy
• The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning by Margareta Magnusson
• *Wrong Place Wrong Time by Gillian McAllister
• Something in the Water by Catherine Steadman
• How to Keep House While Drowning by KC Davis
• *Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
• *The Scent Keeper by Erica Baumeister
• *The Lying Game by Ruth Ware
• Braving the Wilderness by Brene Brown
• *Cassandra in Reverse by Holly Smale
• *Grief is a Sneaky Bitch by Lisa Keefauver
• *The Day He Never Came Home by Andrew DeYoung
• One in a Millennial by Kate Kennedy
• When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead
• *None of This is True by Lisa Jewell
• *This Time Tomorrow by Emma Straub
• *Main Character Energy by Jamie Varon
• The Age of Magical Overthinking by Amanda Montell
• *Campervans, Cooking, And Corpses by Tyler Rhodes
• Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty

Why These Books?

The starred books are ones that particularly resonated with me, either due to their compelling narrative and transformative messages or simply because they were a joy to listen to. From the darkly humorous and painfully honest memoir of Jennette McCurdy to the intricate mysteries by Lisa Jewell, these books have added immense value and perspective to my daily routines.

Dive Into Audiobooks

If you're considering diving into audiobooks or looking for your next great listen, consider starting with one of my August favorites. You might find yourself as hooked as I am! Pause, rewind, or fast forward; audiobooks allow you to consume stories your way. Happy listening!

Hey there, Besties! 🌟

As you all know, I've always loved books, which even led me to open my own Little Free Library in our neighborhood. But with life being as hectic as it is, sitting down to read has become a rare luxury. That's when I stumbled upon the magical world of audiobooks on Spotify, and let me tell you, it was love at first listen!

The Spotify Surprise

One day, while exploring Spotify, I discovered they offered audiobooks. I decided to give it a try, and it was a game-changer. Audiobooks allowed me to "read" while doing other things—like gardening or driving. However, I learned that Spotify limits the monthly hours you can listen to with a premium plan. You can buy more time or wait for the monthly reset, but I wanted something a bit more straightforward.

Diving Into Audible

My journey then took me to Audible, thanks to a few free months I snagged with a promotion. Audible's premium plan is fantastic, offering one credit per month to purchase new releases or any book you fancy. While it's a paid service, the variety of books available, including many new releases not immediately available on other platforms, is quite impressive.

Rediscovering Libby

Then, I remembered Libby. Oh, Libby! For those unfamiliar with it, Libby is a free app that links you to your local library, allowing you to check out books digitally. It's just like a physical library; there are a finite number of copies, and you must return them within 21 days. If your desired book is checked out, you can place it on hold and wait your turn. It's a fantastic resource for free reading.

Conclusion: There's an Audiobook Option for Everyone

Whether you're a casual listener or a voracious "reader," there's an option out there for you. From the convenient streaming on Spotify to the extensive library on Audible and the community gem that is Libby, you can keep your literary love thriving without breaking the bank or your schedule.

Happy reading—or should I say listening? Let me know your favorite way to consume books these days! 📚✨

Hey there, Besties! 🌟

Is your garden begging for more greenery but your wallet saying, "Hold on there!"? Well, I've got some fabulous news for you! Propagating your own herbs isn't just for the green thumbs or expert gardeners. Today, I'm diving into the "lazy gardening" technique of sticking herb cuttings directly into the soil—a simple, cost-effective method to expand your garden.

Why Propagate Herbs?

Propagating herbs is not only economical but also incredibly satisfying. It allows you to multiply your favorite herbs without spending extra bucks at the garden center. Whether you want to enhance your meals with fresh flavors or add some green to your space, this method is a perfect choice.

Herbs That Love to Root in Soil

While many herbs can be propagated by water, here are some that thrive when their cuttings are planted directly in soil:

• Mint: Known for its aggressive growth, mint is a perfect candidate for direct soil propagation. Simply cut, stick it in the dirt, and watch it take off!
  
  
• Rosemary: This fragrant herb roots well in well-draining soil. Ensure it's kept moist, and you'll have new plants in no time.
  
  
• Thyme and Sage: Both herbs root easily when planted directly in light, sandy soil.
  
  
• Oregano: Similar to thyme, oregano cuttings adapt well when planted in moist, fertile soil.

Step-by-Step Guide to Propagating Herbs in Soil

1. Prepare Your Cuttings: Select healthy, non-flowering stems from your existing herb plants. Cut about 4-6 inches from the tip, making sure to cut just below a leaf node.
   
   
2. Prep the Soil: Use a pot with good drainage filled with a mix of potting soil and sand or perlite. This ensures excellent drainage, which is crucial for root development.
   
   
3. Plant Your Cuttings: If you have it on hand, dip the cut end into rooting hormone. This step is optional but can help encourage root growth. Make small holes in the soil with a stick or pencil, place your cuttings inside, and firm the soil around them.
   
   
4. Create the Right Environment: Water the cuttings well and cover the pot with a plastic bag to create a mini-greenhouse effect. This maintains humidity and warmth, speeding up the rooting process.
   
   
5. Care and Patience: Place your new plant babies in a spot with indirect sunlight and keep the soil moist. In a few weeks, check for roots by gently tugging on the cuttings. If you feel resistance, congratulations—you've got roots!

Wrapping Up

With these simple steps, you can turn a single plant into an entire garden of aromatic herbs. It's a sustainable way to keep your kitchen stocked with fresh flavors all year round. Plus, who doesn't love a bit of greenery to brighten up their home?

Happy gardening, and remember, every little leaf is a step towards a more sustainable, lush life!