Fun Ideas to Enjoy a Low-Key, Kid-Free Halloween

by Lindsay | Oct 23, 2024 | Birthdays, Holidays, & Seasonal

Hi there, fellow festive friends!

Halloween looks different for many of us these days. If your kids are grown or just off celebrating with their own friends, you might find yourself at home wondering how to still enjoy the holiday without all the kid-centric activities you’ve been used to in previous years. It’s me. I’m there! My daughter is grown and out on her own now, so I’ll be spending Halloween with my furballs this year. Since I live in a quiet neighborhood where trick-or-treaters are few, I like to lean into a more laid-back, adult-friendly Halloween vibe. Whether you’re staying in with your husband, hanging with some girlfriends, or flying solo at home, Halloween can still be fun and festive without much effort.

Here are a few ideas for making your Halloween night special without going all out.

Cozy Night In: Simple Yet Fun Ideas

Sometimes the best way to enjoy Halloween is from the comfort of home, whether solo or with your sweetie, especially when it’s a work night (like it is this year!).

• Movie Marathon: If you’re like me and enjoy nostalgic movies without the horror element, Halloween is a great time to rewatch favorites. I put on 90s classics like The Addams Family and Hocus Pocus, both of which I used to watch when I was younger and then again with my daughter as she was growing up. I also just rewatched the old Beetlejuice to refresh my memory and then went to see the new version with a friend (we both loved it!). All these movies tap into the spooky season without being too intense (gruesome gore and jump scares just aren’t for me).
• Spooky Sports Night: Depending on the day Halloween falls on, there might be a football or basketball game on (or both like this year!). So a nice quiet night at home watching your favorite team score and indulging in spooky snacks and drinks might be a perfect time to bond with your honey.
• Festive Snacks and Drinks: Keep it simple but festive with snacks that don’t require much prep. Think popcorn mixed with dark chocolate or pumpkin seeds or fruit-based treats shaped like cute ghosts, bats, or spiders. You can even whip up a simple Halloween-themed mocktail or spooky cocktail. How about black cherry soda with a dash of lime for a quick “bubbling brew”?
• Pumpkin Carving: Just because the kids aren’t around doesn’t mean you have to skip out on pumpkin carving (or painting!). You can even go for more stylish or intricate designs now, making it a fun and creative adult activity. Carving pumpkins while watching your favorite Halloween flicks with the hubby is a fun way to stay engaged with the season and make some great wholesome and lasting memories (and front porch decor at the same time!).

Girlfriends’ Low-Key Halloween Hangout

Looking for a reason to gather your friends for a no-stress night? Halloween is the perfect excuse!

• Theme “Party” Without the Stress: Invite a few girlfriends over for a casual hangout. You don’t need to go all out—just throw on some Halloween tunes (like my favorite, The Monster Mash or Michael Jackson’s Thriller), light a few candles, and create a cozy ambiance. If you’re feeling a little more extra and want to put on something other than your comfies, have everyone wear something festive like cute accessories or outfits with a subtle spooky touch. Think black lace, velvet, bat and black cat earrings, or deep autumn colors.
• Movie Night with a Twist: Choose a few lighthearted Halloween movies (again, I’m all about Hocus Pocus) and set up a popcorn or ice cream bar with fun Halloween candy toppings. You can also do a laid-back potluck where everyone brings a simple Halloween-themed snack or drink. It’s an easy way to celebrate with the girls without turning it into a big production.
• Halloween Crafts: If your crew is crafty, a DIY Halloween craft night can be a fun and creative way to get together. Think of activities like making Halloween-themed wreaths, painting or decorating mini pumpkins, making festive jewelry and delicious smelling candles, or creating cute fall centerpieces that can be used in your dining room through Thanksgiving.

Stylish Halloween-Inspired Outfits

If you do decide to go out for Halloween, but don’t want to have an over the top costume, you can still dress for the occasion with minimal effort.

• Subtle Spooky Vibes: If you want to get in the spirit but don’t feel like dressing up in a full costume (or frankly, spending the money on it!), go for a stylish Halloween-inspired look that isn’t actually a costume. Black lace tops, chunky boots, gothy jewelry, faux leather jackets, and some festive accessories can give you just the right amount of Halloween energy without going overboard.
• Seasonal Colors: You can never go wrong with shades of autumn like deep purples, burnt oranges, or dark greens. These colors scream Halloween, but are versatile enough that you probably already have them in your closet from last year and can continue to wear them the rest of this season. Pair a turtleneck or sweater in these colors with some skinny jeans, cute ankle boots, and a wide-brimmed hat and you’re all set for a stylish fall/Halloween appropriate outfit.

Quick and Easy Halloween Costumes

If you’re juggling work, social life, taking care of your home, and everything in between, a full-blown costume may not be on your agenda. But that doesn’t mean you can’t still have fun and dress up last minute!

• Cute and Easy Furball:  Does your daughter have a headband with cat, dog, or bunny ears laying around?  Perfect!  Pair them with some drawn on whiskers using an eyeliner pencil (and maybe a black outfit if going for that traditional black cat vibe) and you’ve got yourself a cute, furry animal costume in minutes.
• Pumpkin Spice Queen: Throw on an oversized orange sweater, pair it with brown leggings and boots, and call yourself the queen of pumpkin spice! It’s festive, cozy, and effortless.
• Sleepy Pajama Party Look: Throw on a cute matching pajama set, grab a sleep mask, and carry a coffee mug (or even a stuffed animal) as a fun, low-effort costume. You can also wear cozy slippers and messy “bedhead” hair to complete the look. It’s comfortable, easy, and works perfectly for a relaxed Halloween night. Plus, you can stay in theme while being extra comfy!

Healthy Halloween Treats

Let’s be honest, as much as I love indulging in candy (and not just at Halloween time), sometimes it’s nice to have healthier alternatives that still feel festive.

• Dark Chocolate Dipped Fruit: Keep it simple and a little indulgent with dark chocolate-dipped strawberries or bananas. You can even add a drizzle of white chocolate for a “mummy wrap” effect or pop in some pretzel sticks “legs” to give a black spider look.
• Pumpkin-Spiced Everything: If you’re like me and love the taste of fall, consider making healthy pumpkin-spiced muffins or pumpkin hummus. These are great for snacking during a movie marathon or sharing with your partner or friends.
• Spooky Snack Boards: Create a healthy snack board with nuts, cheese, dark chocolate, dried fruits, and some Halloween-themed goodies like ghost-shaped cutouts of veggies or fruits. If you’re really feeling fancy and have the extra time, stick some googly eyes on some grapes or just around the board to jazz it up a bit more.

Halloween-Inspired Self-Care

Halloween is the perfect time to slow down and indulge in some cozy self-care, especially if you’re staying in and want a quiet night to pamper yourself.

• Candlelit Pumpkin Bath: Light a few pumpkin-scented candles, draw a warm bath, and unwind. You can even throw in a Halloween-themed bath bomb to make it feel extra festive.
• DIY Spa Night: After your relaxing bath, treat yourself to an at-home evening at the spa. I love to paint my nails every week or two and am always on board for incorporating seasonal colors and designs. Do a mani/pedi with dark burgundy, green, or brown shades of polish and add some cute ghost, black cat, or bat nail stickers and decals. You can also rehydrate yourself from the crisp fall air with a luxurious facemask, eyemasks (or cucumbers), and conditioning hair masks to complete the spa treatment.
• Ghostly Audiobook: Instead of watching a scary movie, listen to a thriller or a spooky-but-not-too-scary audiobook while cozying up with a warm fleece blanket. It’s a great way to get in the Halloween mood without going full horror.

Easy Decorations that Transition to Fall

If you’re like me, you probably don’t want to completely overhaul your décor for your Halloween night at home or small get together, only to take it down right after to transition into Thanksgiving. Instead, try these options.

• Dual-Purpose Decor: Opt for decorations that work for both Halloween and Thanksgiving. Pumpkins, autumn leaves, and neutral- or fall-colored wreaths are great choices because they can stay up through the entire season. You can add a few Halloween touches (like spooky candles, spider webs, or black accents) that can easily be removed once Halloween has passed without having to completely change everything.
• Cozy Atmosphere: Fill your space with cozy autumn themed decor and colors (rather than just Halloween specific). In fall we think of rich warm colors, soft fleece blankets, pumpkin-scented candles, lanterns, dried flowers, and fairy lights. These elements create a space that’s perfect for the upcoming Thanksgiving season and cooler months ahead. This decor can easily transition into the rest of the fall season as well, which is an added bonus, creating a comforting atmosphere you’ll love coming home to, even after Halloween is over.

This Halloween doesn’t have to be filled with parties or intense spooky vibes. Whether you’re staying in alone, spending time with your boyfriend or husband, or gathering with a few girlfriends, it’s all about enjoying the season in a way that fits your current kid-free (or at least less kid-centered) lifestyle. Here’s to a festive, low-key adult Halloween that’s still full of fun!

With much love and spooky but not too spooky vibes (haha),

-LS

How to Transition Your Home for Fall: Beyond the Basics

by Lindsay | Oct 2, 2024 | Birthdays, Holidays, & Seasonal

Greetings babes!

Although I love the summertime, fall is definitely also a great season and has its own beauty.  Once you get over the craziness of back to school time and adjusting to the cooler weather and shorter daylight hours, you can start to settle into and appreciate the crisp air, cozy vibes, and the promise of the holidays just around the corner.

However, when it comes to decorating my home for the season, I’ve never been one for elaborate, magazine-worthy displays. Instead, I like to keep it simple and practical, making small tweaks that can transform the space into a cozy retreat. If you’re anything like me—someone who loves fall, but doesn’t want to feel like an amateur interior decorator—here are some ideas for creating a warm, inviting home without overthinking it.

1. Play with Fall Scents

Scent is one of the easiest ways to signal the change in seasons and it can instantly make your home feel cozy. Start small with a few fall-scented candles in spaces like your living room, kitchen, or bathroom. Think cinnamon, apple pie, or pumpkin spice (of course!). If candles aren’t your thing, consider using essential oils like clove, cedarwood, or orange which are great fall-inspired scents. Even swapping out your usual air fresheners or room sprays for something with a deeper, warmer, or woodier scent can do wonders.

• Bonus Tip: Try simmering a pot of water with cinnamon sticks, cloves, and orange slices on the stove. It makes the whole house smell like fall and it’s an easy, natural option.

2. Change Up Your Lighting

Lighting is one of those underrated ways to make a space feel more inviting and it’s such an easy thing to adjust. With shorter days ahead, you might find that soft, warm lighting works best. Swapping out bright, cool-toned bulbs for warmer, more golden ones makes a huge difference. String lights or fairy lights are another fun way to add warmth, especially in areas like your living room, bedroom, or even the porch.

• Bonus Tip: If you’re into lamps, try using amber or vintage-style Edison bulbs. They create a beautiful, cozy glow that feels perfect for fall evenings.

3. Incorporate Seasonal Textures

Fall is the season of layers and your home can reflect that too. Even if you’re not into heavy duty seasonal decorating, switching out lightweight summer throws for something heavier like a chunky knit or faux fur blanket can completely change the vibe. Toss a few textured pillows on your couch or bed for extra comfort. Don’t worry about matching everything perfectly—fall is about feeling warm and relaxed, so go for what feels and looks good to you.

• Bonus Tip: If you don’t want to buy new blankets or pillows, look for inexpensive fabric covers or small throws that you can swap out just for the season.

4. Bring Nature Inside

I love this trick because it’s super simple and doesn’t require a lot of effort. Bringing in a few natural elements like pinecones, branches, or even acorns can give your home that fall feel without going overboard. A small bundle of dried wheat or lavender in a vase looks great on a dining table or console and it adds an earthy touch that feels totally like autumn.

• Bonus Tip: If you have kids, collecting leaves or acorns together on a nature walk can be a fun and free way to gather some fall decor. Maybe even look up a tutorial on a centerpiece or other decor piece using the items you collect for a fun family arts and crafts activity.

5. Swap Out Wreaths and Doormats

So this might be a bit of a decor thing, but trust me, it’s minimal effort for maximum impact! A simple fall wreath (think dried leaves, twigs, or berries) can set the tone the minute someone walks up to your door. You can even go for a DIY wreath if you’re feeling crafty. While you’re at it, consider swapping out your doormat for something a little more fall-themed. It’s the perfect way to start welcoming the new season.

• Bonus Tip: If you have a flag pole outside of your home, be sure to also swap it out for a flag that’s autumn inspired as well.

6. Update Your Entryway

Your entryway is the first thing you see when you come home, so why not make it a little more welcoming for fall? Add a small basket of blankets or scarves near the door, or throw down a new rug in autumn colors like burnt orange, deep red, or mustard yellow. It’s a small space that you can easily change up without much hassle and it can make you feel like you’re stepping into a cozy retreat every time you come home or welcome guests in.

7. Create a Cozy Reading Nook

This is one of my favorite ways to bring in the cozy fall feeling. Find a quiet corner of your home (extra points if it’s by a window), add a comfortable chair or even just a pile of pillows, and dedicate it to reading or relaxing. Layer in a throw blanket, add a small side table for your pumpkin spice latte or tea, and maybe even set up a small lamp or string lights for soft lighting. You don’t need much space to make this work—just a little creativity!

8. Switch Up Your Table Settings

Even if you’re not hosting a big dinner, changing up your table settings is a great way to bring fall into your home. Swap out bright summer placemats for ones in fall colors like rust, brown, or burgundy. A simple centerpiece like a bowl of seasonal fruit (think apples or mini pumpkins) or a few candles is an easy, no-fuss way to elevate your dining table for fall.

The beauty of these tips is that none of them require you to have a degree in interior design! They’re easy, practical, and budget-friendly ways to welcome fall into your home without a lot of fuss. Let me know if you have any other cozy ideas for transitioning into the season. I’d love to hear them!

Happy fall, y’all. And as always, lots of love and cozy thoughts!

-LS

Embracing the Seasonal Shift: Finding Motivation as Summer Fades

by Lindsay | Sep 11, 2024 | Birthdays, Holidays, & Seasonal

As the warmth of summer begins to wane, it’s easy to feel a mix of emotions. The vibrant days of beach trips, vacations, and sun-soaked afternoons are behind us, and the rhythm of daily life starts to change, especially with the kids going back to school and the daylight hours shortening. But as we bid farewell to summer, we also open the door to a season filled with its own unique charm and opportunities for growth.

The Emotional Impact of Changing Seasons

The transition from summer to fall often brings a shift in our mindset and energy levels. The long, bright days that fueled our summer adventures gradually give way to shorter days and cooler temperatures, which if you’re anything like me, can sometimes make us feel a bit melancholic. It’s natural to miss the carefree vibe of summer, but it’s also important to recognize the beauty and potential that autumn offers.

The fall season invites us to slow down, reflect, and embrace a different kind of energy—a cozier, more introspective vibe that can be just as fulfilling as the vibrant energy of summer. The key is to find motivation in this shift and to focus on the new possibilities that autumn brings.

Staying Motivated to Embrace the Fall Season

1. Set New Goals:
   • Fall is the perfect time to set fresh goals and intentions. Whether it’s starting a new project, focusing on personal growth, or simply organizing and redecorating your home for the season, setting goals can provide a sense of direction and purpose as the days grow shorter.
2. Start a Fall Routine:
   • Establishing a new routine can help you transition smoothly into the season. This can be especially helpful if your kids are also adjusting to their new “back to school” routine, along with all the craziness of starting sports and other extracurricular activities. Busy days are inevitable, but it’s imperative that you take some time each day to care for yourself and set yourself up with a schedule that will promote health and success, especially during these transionary periods. Consider incorporating activities that bring you joy, such as morning walks in the crisp air, cozying up with a good book, or trying out new pumpkin-flavored recipes. A routine that includes both productivity and relaxation can keep you balanced and motivated.
3. Embrace Seasonal Activities:
   • Autumn is full of activities that can bring excitement and joy. Whether it’s attending football games, visiting a pumpkin patch or apple picking, decorating for holidays, or indulging in your favorite fall treats, these moments can help you connect with the season and find happiness in the little things. The cooler weather can also make us want to break out the crockpot and our favorite soup and stew recipes, along with baking some pies with all our freshly picked pumpkins and apples. I love the smells that fill the house during this time of year!
4. Refresh Your Wardrobe:
   • Fall fashion is all about layering, cozy sweaters, and chic accessories. It’s nice to start switching from sandals to shoes and boots so you can pull all those styles out of the closet or shop for some new options. If you love fall clothing and accessories (like I do!), this is your time to shine! Refresh your wardrobe with pieces that make you feel confident and comfortable, embracing the cooler weather in style.
5. Look Forward to Upcoming Events:
   • The end of the year is packed with events and holidays that bring families and friends together. As your kids start a new school year, there will be plenty of events to enjoy with all their interests and activities. The anticipation of holiday gatherings and celebrations can provide a sense of excitement and motivation to stay positive and productive. I personally love having exciting things on the horizon to look forward to and find that these upcoming joyous moments make some of the more busy or mundane days easier to manage and get through with a positive attitude.

Preparing for the End of the Year

As we move through fall, it’s not just about embracing the current season, but also preparing for the festivities and family time that lie ahead. The holidays are a time for connection, reflection, and celebration, and by staying motivated now, you’ll be in a great place to fully enjoy everything that comes with the end of the year.

Take this time to plan ahead, whether it’s organizing your holiday shopping, planning family get-togethers, or simply reflecting on what you’re grateful for. By focusing on the joy and connection that the end of the year brings, you can transition smoothly from the vibrant days of summer to the cozy, heartwarming days of fall and winter.

Final Thoughts

The shift from summer to fall is more than just a change in the weather—it’s an opportunity to embrace a new season of life with open arms. By setting new goals, creating routines, and focusing on the joys of the season, you can find motivation and happiness as summer fades and fall takes center stage. So grab your favorite pumpkin spice latte, wrap yourself in a cozy scarf, and get ready to make the most of this beautiful time of year!

With cozy thoughts for the season and as always, much love,

-LS

Football Season in Texas: A Women’s Guide How to Get Involved and Actually Have Fun

by Lindsay | Sep 4, 2024 | Birthdays, Holidays, & Seasonal

Hi there, lovely ladies!

As of this week, football season is officially back! In Texas in particular, it’s much more than just a pastime; it’s a way of life. Whether it’s Friday night lights at the local high school, Saturday college games, or Sunday and Monday night NFL, football is everywhere and seems like all everyone can talk about. At least until after the Super Bowl!

As someone who spent six years in the stands every Friday night, watching my daughter perform with the marching band and my former stepson play on the middle school, JV, and varsity teams, I can say that I’ve grown to enjoy football more than I ever thought I would. My mom loves football, as well as all the men in my family, so I’ve always grown up with games on.  However, I remember it was always so boring back then.  Now that I understand more, it’s much more of a thrill since I can participate and I even find myself cheering along. I’m lucky enough to live near many local universities so I’ve been able to experience multiple college games in person, but I can’t wait to go to an NFL game soon—something I never thought I’d be excited about!

Even if you’re not a die-hard fan, there are plenty of ways to get involved and have fun during this exciting time of year. If you’re a woman who might not know all the rules or the players by name, but has a partner who loves football, here are some ways to get involved to make the most of the season and have a great time with your loved ones!

1. Learn the Basics

Understanding the game can make watching football much more enjoyable. You don’t need to become an expert, but learning the basic rules can help you follow along and even get excited about the big plays. Start by asking your partner questions during casual conversations when the game isn’t on. Most men are happy to explain (or “mansplain” haha) because it’s something they’re passionate about and typically find enjoyment including you in something they love. Understanding terms like “first down,” “touchdown,” and “field goal” can make a huge difference. There are also plenty of beginner’s guides and videos online that break down the rules in an easy-to-understand way.

2. Attend a Game in Person

Watching the game on TV is definitely fun, but as with any sport, I find that there’s nothing like the energy of a live football game. If you’ve never been to one, consider attending a high school, college, or NFL game this season. Tailgating before the game is a Texas tradition and a fantastic way to enjoy good food, music, and camaraderie before kickoff. Even if football isn’t your thing, the atmosphere at the games is a blast and well worth it. It’s an experience you won’t forget.

3. Host a Game Day Gathering

Hosting a football watch party at home can be a great way to enjoy the game while still having fun with friends. You can BBQ, make fun and creative game-day snacks and appetizers, and set up a comfortable and inviting spot for everyone to watch the game together. If you’re not into watching, you can still socialize with the other wives who might feel the same way. Set up a “football-free” zone in another room where you can chat about more women- and mom-related topics of interest, enjoy drinks, or play games while still being part of the event.

4. Support Your Partner’s Team in Style

Even if you’re not passionate about football, you can still show support for your partner’s favorite team. Invest in some cute, team-branded apparel or accessories that you’ll enjoy wearing. Whether it’s a sparkly team shirt, a cozy hoodie, or even some fun jewelry in the team’s colors, dressing up can help you feel more involved and connected to the experience.

5. Make It a Date Night

Turn football into a bonding experience by making game day a special date night. If your husband doesn’t have plans to watch with the guys, make it a fun night that you two can share together. Order in from your favorite restaurant, make a cozy spot on the couch, and enjoy the game with each other, just as you would with your favorite show. You can even create little traditions, like making a special game-day dessert or competing to see who can predict the final score.  Or choose to go out to a local sports bar to enjoy some appetizers and drinks together with your sweetie for a memorable and fun night out.

6. Join a Fantasy Football League

If you’re looking for a way to get even more involved, consider joining a fantasy football league. It’s a fun way to learn more about the game and you might find yourself getting surprisingly competitive. There are even women-only leagues if you prefer to compete in a more relaxed, supportive environment.

7. Get Involved in Community Events

Football season often brings community events like pep rallies, fundraisers, and parades. These events are a great way to meet people, support your local teams, and have a ton of fun enjoying the festive atmosphere. Whether it’s volunteering at a school event or just attending to show your support, getting involved can make football season more meaningful.

8. Make the Most of Halftime

If you’re at a live game, halftime is a great time to stretch your legs, grab some snacks, and enjoy the entertainment. High school games often feature performances by the marching band (which is the reason I started attending way back when), cheerleaders, and dance teams, which can be a lot of fun to watch. At home, halftime is the perfect time to refresh your drink, chat with friends, or even sneak in a quick cornhole or horseshoes game.

Football season in Texas is a unique experience, and whether you’re a fan or not, there are plenty of ways to get involved and have a blast during gametime. By joining in with the social aspects, learning a little about the game, and finding ways to make it your own, you might just find yourself looking forward to game days as much as your husband or boyfriend does!

Cheers and as always, much love!

-LS

Reflections from a High School Graduation Party on My 39th Birthday

by Lindsay | Jul 3, 2024 | Birthdays, Holidays, & Seasonal

Celebrating my 39th birthday at a high school graduation party wasn’t exactly how I envisioned the day. Initially, I had planned to attend a concert, but plans changed. The concert date fell through because of the graduation party and then to top it off, my date couldn’t make it to the party either due to an unexpected out of state work trip. So, I arrived at the celebration feeling a bit disappointed. Don’t get me wrong, the party itself was wonderful, a joyous occasion filled with energy and excitement, and I was so happy to have been included! It just wasn’t what I had anticipated for the night, but it actually turned out so much better than expected.

Around a hundred people gathered to celebrate the graduates’ achievements. Amidst the festivities, something unexpected happened—the entire group sang happy birthday to me. It was incredibly sweet and heartwarming, yet I couldn’t help but feel a bit embarrassed standing up in front of everyone. I felt awkward, but their gesture made me feel recognized and appreciated, even though it wasn’t my party. I smiled from ear to ear the entire time (and tried to fight back the tears that were forming from falling!) and my daughter was so kind to record it all for me so I have this sweet (and slightly cringy haha) moment to look back on forever.

As the celebration continued, I found myself deep in thought. This party stirred up many emotions and memories for me. I never attended my own high school graduation because I had my daughter and graduated from night school early. Missing out on that milestone meant missing out on other significant high school experiences like homecomings and proms as well. It was a challenging time in my life, and being at this party brought back those memories.

The festivities and fun had by the graduate and his friends, filled with hope and excitement for the future, then started to remind me of my own daughter’s high school graduation. Her graduation was an emotional time for me (her entire senior year actually!), a blend of pride and a tinge of sadness for the moments I missed in my own youth and knowing that she would soon be leaving me to start her own adult life. She was at the party with me, and having her there was a comforting presence. Yet, it also reminded me of those times and all the changes that have happened since she graduated.

Reflecting on these experiences, I realized how much they all shaped who I am today. Despite the bittersweet memories, I am grateful for the journey. The party, though not initially planned, turned into a meaningful experience. It reminded me of the importance of celebrating life’s milestones, both big and small, and cherishing the moments with loved ones. I was sure to encourage my daughter to enjoy that period in her life and not miss any of the moments as they came. I’m so glad I was able to share that time in her life with her and now also be a small part of this young man’s journey as well. I wish him all the best in all the blessings that are to come next!  And again, feel so incredibly lucky that he and his family included me in such a milestone moment in his life. It was an amazing night for everyone.

When I left the party, way past my bedtime (haha), I felt a profound sense of gratitude. Gratitude for the kind gesture from the guests, for the memories shared with my daughter and everyone else there, being asked to be included in such a momentous occasion, and for the reflections on my past that continue to shape my present. Life has a funny way of bringing us full circle, and sometimes, it’s in the most unexpected moments that we find the deepest connections, most wonderful people, and insights that we can carry with us into the future.

Congrats to all the recent grads out there and best wishing for your next chapter!

As always, with love,

-LS