I ventured into the world of book (and blog) writing to fulfill a promise to my beloved mother-in-law. Sue's bright light was extinguished on December 2, 2010, after a valiant 13-year battle with breast cancer... just five month's after her first grandchild (my daughter) was born. Now as a mother, entrepreneur, friend, sister, daughter, wife, and torch-bearer of a legacy, I paddle my boat, one wave at a time, toward that promise to her—and now to myself. In death as in life, Sue continues to motivate and inspire me. Follow me, and I'll do my best to pass the inspiration along. To life!
As I approach another solo-parent trip with my toddler, I’m making my list and checking it twice. Efficiency is key when you have to pack and plan for two people, and here are a few go-to’s I’ve picked up over the years. Bookmark this for the next time you’re making your travel list. Bonus tip: Save your … More Top 3: Multipurpose Travel Items for Moms
Here’s an idea if you need to decorate on a budget or are thinking ahead to DIY holiday gifts. I recently made a bunch of tinted mason jars in bulk for a friend’s wedding, and I was pleasantly surprised by how they turned out. We filled them with candles and used them in the table centerpieces, … More Tinted Mason Jars (in Bulk)
What is it about the change of the calendar to fall that makes us itch to get things done? Maybe it goes back to our gather-and-hibernate instinct… Regardless, I happened upon this TED Talk video yesterday, and it’s an excellent follow up to my post about stress-free productivity last week.
In honor of Labor Day, I have some motivational posters for you. Enjoy your holiday … hopefully labor-free!
As we approach Labor Day, I’d like to make this public service announcement: You don’t have to work harder to work better. If I read that before I started my freelance business, I would’ve thought, “Yeah, right.” But five years of being my own boss has taught me many surprising things about true productivity, all … More Work Better
It’s THE tourist thing to do in Seattle. Cruise ships passengers march up its harbor steps, and even locals can’t resist the cheap flowers and fresh produce. It’s also a fantastic free place to go exploring with kids. Perks: Free All-day browsing Great people watching Covered, for those rainy Seattle days What to do: Watch … More Free Seattle: Pike Place Market
We had one date in college, and it was a disaster. That was 17 years ago. After college, Chicago kept putting us in each other’s paths. Eventually, mutual friends had a party, and I decided to give him another chance. Plus, he said he was up for trying tango lessons with me—and he actually followed … More Two to Tango
Have an unused wall or side of a cupboard in your kitchen? Try a little chalkboard paint for added interest, usefulness, and fun. Our toddler particularly likes her new creative play area on the other side of our fridge. We hung a
Let’s face it. Seattle has a very limited number of hot, summer days. Take advantage of them while you can with a trip to one of the city’s many splash parks. My favorite, location-wise, is the Ballard Splash Park. Here’s why …
Yep, it’s not what you usually see on here, but I think you need a break. And how often do you have an hour or two to make a appointment, drive to the spa, wait, be pampered, wait some more, and drive back home? Did I hear a “NEVER”? Good news! All you need is … More DIY Pedicure
My Castle Heart Publications 