I’m a big fan of onions—they add so much flavor to just about everything I cook, whether sautéed, caramelized, or enjoyed raw. While I know there are many different types, I have to admit I don’t always know which to use when. Recently, as I tackled a recipe calling for white onions, I realized it…
Travel North Carolina-Captain Ron’s Island Tours in Beaufort NC
I was looking forward to our upcoming sunset cruise with Captain Ron and his first mate Kathy aboard the Wanderer. This two-hour tour along Beaufort’s stunning Crystal Coast promises the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. I’m planning to bring a few snacks, water, and some wine to enjoy while watching wild horses roam and…
Tell Your Story Through Journaling-What is the Story Behind Your Name?
In today’s busy world, it’s often hard to find the time or space to share our life stories with others. That’s where journaling comes in—a powerful way to capture your experiences, memories, and insights in your own words. My Tell Your Story Through Journaling series encourages you to explore your journey through guided prompts, creating a lasting…
Travel North Carolina-A Lunch Stop at Olde Hickory Station in Hickory NC
We were setting off on a mini weekend getaway, driving from Cary to Asheville—a trip that takes around four hours. Wanting a nice place to stop for lunch halfway through, a friend recommended Hickory, NC. A bit of digging led me to discover a charming spot called Olde Hickory Station, a beautifully restored historic train…
Do You Need Stress Relief? Go Get A Pedicure!
Taking time for self-care is essential for helping us relax and manage stress. In fact, this idea is supported by research—Amherst College notes that caring for yourself helps preserve your physical, emotional, and mental energy, enabling you to better handle stress. So, this week, I treated myself to a pedicure—perfect timing with sandal weather and…
Monthly Motivation-God’s Light Can Cut Through Our Darkness
Sometimes, life’s darkest moments make it hard to even imagine a way out. I wrote this poem during one of those times—a reminder that even when darkness feels all-encompassing, the light of God’s love can still shine through. God’s Light Cuts Through Our Darkness “Light can be seen even in the…
August Recipe Challenge: Delicious Dishes from Appetizers to Desserts
Ready to shake up your kitchen this August? I’m diving into a fresh batch of new recipes, and I’m inviting you to join the adventure. Whether they turn out simple, delicious, or interesting, this month’s recipe challenge is about exploring and having fun. Let’s get cooking! (The photos below are as close as I could…
Travel North Carolina-A Few Things to do in August in NC.
I’m always on the hunt for fun and exciting things to do in North Carolina, so let’s dive into some of the amazing events happening across the state in August 2025. From lively festivals to cool outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Let’s check out a few highlights that might just make your…
Inspirational Quotes-Helping Others by Sally Koch
There’s a powerful quote by Sally Koch that really resonates with me: “Great opportunities to help others seldom come, but small ones surround us every day.” Even when we’re facing our own challenges, sometimes those difficult moments are exactly when reaching out and helping others can have the most profound impact. It shifts our perspective,…
A Series on “Joy”: Discovering the Meaning of Joy
Joy. It’s one of those words we throw around like it’s simple, but anyone who’s been through tough times knows it’s anything but. What exactly is joy? Is it a fleeting smile, a deep calm, or maybe those rare moments that make your heart feel full despite everything else? The truth is, joy isn’t a one-size-fits-all kind…