Why We Started Elf on the Shelf Tradition During a Hard Year cover picture

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For years, we proudly avoided the Elf on the Shelf craze. It seemed like too much work, too much stress, and honestly, a little too “commercial” for our cozy holiday vibe. But then, one particularly challenging year changed everything. It was the year of COVID, and it also happened to be the same year my Dad received a cancer diagnosis. That combination of uncertainty, stress, and being stuck at home made us realize we needed more joy, more magic, and more reasons to laugh together as a family. That’s when we finally decided to bring a little elf into our lives. And I’m so gladRead More →

A Cozy, Old-Fashioned Thanksgiving Day in Michigan Cover Pic

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There’s something extra special about Thanksgiving in Michigan—the crisp air, the warm homes, and of course… the Detroit Lions game humming in the background while the turkey roasts. It’s the kind of day that feels both nostalgic and comforting, with traditions that have been part of Michigan families for generations. Thanksgiving happens to be my favorite holiday, and we’ve hosted it at our home for many years. I value the time spent with loved ones, the comforting dishes, and the traditions that have lasted through the years. If you’re dreaming of an old-fashioned Thanksgiving filled with warmth, family, and those unmistakable Michigan touches, here’s howRead More →

20-Simple-WaysGrateful-Cover-Picture

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Life moves fast. Some days are full and busy, and it’s easy to jump from one thing to the next without really slowing down to appreciate what’s right in front of us. Gratitude doesn’t require big moments. It’s found in the small, everyday details we often overlook. November is a wonderful time to do a little thankfulness check-in. Here are 20 simple ways to be more grateful daily—practical habits that fit into real life. 1. Start Your Day With One Thankful Thought Before you get out of bed, name one thing you’re thankful for. It sets the tone. 2. Sit by a Window and LookRead More →

Fun Jack-o'-Lantern ideas Cover Picture

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It’s officially that time of year! October just days away, and the world starts to turn beautiful shades of red and orange. Our porches start to fill up with fun carved pumpkins and kids get excited about Halloween costume ideas. Carving Jack-O’-Lanterns has been a yearly tradition in our family, as the kids gets older and busier, sometimes it happens only days before Halloween. I will share some of the fun carved pumpkin designs we have used over the years, maybe you will find a new choice for your carving this year. I thought it might be fun to dive into how this tradition cameRead More →

Budget Friendly Garden Updated Cover Picture

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This one was a surprising one for me. Again, I DO NOT have a green thumb, and our yard could really use someone who does. This one was a simple, super affordable garden project using dollar store seed packets, some solo cups/empty fruit containers and bag of potting soil. It started strong in the house, and when I transferred them into our “boat” garden they looked pretty sad, and I thought no way this will stick. To my surprise, they really thrived! I will say I simply sprinkled the last of the wildflower seed packet into the last section of the boat garden and itRead More →

Fall Feels Like cover picture

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Ah, bring on fall! I really don’t want summer to come to an end…. but, there is an excitement about the coming crisp fall mornings laced with school day routines, crockpot dinners and cozy, warm cups of coffee. Let’s get ready for a good transition from lazy summer days to school day schedules. 1. Embrace the Fall Vibe (and All Its Cozy Perks) 2. Think Small, Don’t-Try-Too-Hard Routines That Actually Help 3. Try To Make It Fun—Fall Vibes, Pumpkin Snacks. 4. Fall Traditions That Feel Like Hugs Fall isn’t just for apples and sweaters.It’s for parents, too. A quiet return to rhythm. Back-to-school, brisk air,Read More →

Hot Summer Quotes Cover Picture

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It seemed to take a bit longer than years past, but summer has finally arrived here in Michigan. This is the first week of uncomfortable, hot, humid weather for days on end. Add in a few good thunderstorms to level up the humidity, and here we are. We are lucky that we don’t have to be outside for long stretches of time this week. Breaking the heat with some cool drinks on the deck, some water sprinkler trampoline time and kicking our toes in the pond. I’m sure next week will look totally different; it is Michigan after all. Here are some fun Hot SummerRead More →

Summer Bucket List Tweens and Teens Cover picture

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School is out and now you get to hang with those fun tweens and teens. 82 days for this family until the start of sophomore year and 7th grade for our kids. I like a good list, and my older daughter likes to make her own too! I have complied a fun Summer Bucket List of ideas for these older kiddos this summer. Hope you find a few that make your summer a little more fun. Outdoor Adventures Water Fun Creative Projects At Home Chill Days Just for Fun Challenges Music and Vibes Personal Growth and LearningRead More →