You love scrolling Instagram and seeing well-organized homes with smiling owners. So now you think clearing out your closet is going to fix your life? Well…think again.  Decluttering isn’t just about throwing out old college textbooks and mismatched socks. It’s a battle against your own habits, emotions, and the incessant urge to buy more junk.  With the average American home containing over 300,000 items, it’s no wonder we’re drowning in stuff. But here’s the kicker less than 20% of the things we keep are ever used. Here are 13 hard truths about the reality of the decluttering proce ..read more

Let’s talk about weekends. Those glorious two days that promise relaxation and rejuvenation but often leave you feeling more drained than when you started. You see, weekends have this sneaky way of luring you into a false sense of productivity. You tell yourself you’ll finally tackle that passion project or clean out the garage, but before you know it, you’re knee-deep in Netflix binges and endless scrolling. Fear not. Today, we’re diving into the art of weekend productivity. So go ahead grab your coffee, take a seat, and get ready to reclaim your weekends like a boss. 1. Flip the Script and T ..read more

Imagine a time when keeping food fresh involved a block of ice and meals were prepared over an open flame. Now, step into the present day, where appliances respond to voice commands and customize their functions to suit our needs.  Recently, I’ve been feeling a little nostalgic as I watch my son grow up. He’ll never know what life was like before email and smartphones. And his kids will never know about some of the things he has today. These inventions have not only streamlined our daily routines but have also redefined the very essence of home living, but where will they go next. Let’s e ..read more

Believe it or not, there’s a right way to clean and a wrong one. While your intentions may be stellar, some of your cleaning habits could be turning your home into a less-than-pristine scene rather than the sparkling sanctuary you aim for.  Avoiding common cleaning mistakes can help maintain the longevity and appearance of your home while ensuring a safer and more effective cleaning process. Here are 16 costly cleaning blunders that you need to steer clear of. 1. Skipping Cleaning Day Image Credit: Peopleimages and iStock Not having a cleaning routine can lead to inconsistent and ineffici ..read more

If you want to shop your way around the country, we have a few can’t-miss shopping centers that redefine what a mall can be. From gondola rides past designer stores to rollercoasters next to Abercrombie, the best malls in America go beyond food courts and Sears. Forget about Rodeo Drive; experience the pinnacle of shopping at these spectacular shopping destinations. A Case for Shopping Malls Image Credit: Minervastock and Depositphotos Many say shopping malls are a dying breed, but we’re here to advocate for these retail hubs. Hitting a mall may not seem like the ideal vacation activity, but t ..read more

Navigating the ups and downs of a relationship can feel like steering a ship through calm and stormy waters. In moments that test your patience and love, recognizing your partner and going beyond a simple thank you to express gratitude can really make a difference.  Acknowledging your partner’s genuine efforts—not just the grand gestures but the everyday acts of kindness—will solidify your connection. So, let’s dive into 22 heartfelt phrases that do just that and make each thank you resonate a bit deeper. 1. You Always Do the Most Amazing Things for Me. Image Credit: Monkey Business Image ..read more

Since 2020, inflation has surged, and higher inflation means higher prices in one area, leaving less for other things and complicating saving for emergencies, retirement, and vacations. So, it’s important to approach your adventures with a strategic mindset. Smart planning and flexibility can turn dreams into affordable realities. Here are 16 practical ways to navigate financial turbulence and keep your travel aspirations alive. 1. Make a Budget and Stick To It Image Credit: Fizkes and Shutterstock Creating and adhering to a budget is foundational. Start by determining how much you can realist ..read more

My husband and I plan a fantastic trip for our anniversary every year. For our fifth anniversary, we decided to explore the beautiful Caribbean Island of Aruba. We meticulously selected our destination since our anniversary coincides with hurricane season (June to November). With its strategic location in the Caribbean Ocean and proximity to Venezuela, Aruba emerged as the ideal choice, ensuring our trip would be shielded from the potential disruptions of lousy weather. We chose wisely. While there, we explored and enjoyed this picturesque paradise’s fabulous sights and sounds. From excellent ..read more

The dreamy little retro oasis known as Palm Springs is nestled alongside the San Jose Mountains in Southern California. A one-time home away from home spot for old Hollywood stars like Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, and Liberace, this desert town is a fabulous vacation destination. My husband and I love this city so much that we’re heading back this summer for another quick getaway. From incredible midcentury architecture, a fantastic food scene, majestic natural beauty, and a hopping nightlife, there are copious sights and experiences to enjoy. It’s also a great place to relax, unwind, and hav ..read more

Dating is hard enough when you have a little cushion in your bank account, but it can be even more complicated when you don’t. You want to impress your new love interest, but you’re also concerned about how to do that on a tight budget without looking too cheap.   Whether you’re an old married couple or just beginning to experience new love, finding time to connect and share memorable experiences is critical. Remember, it’s not about the money you spend but the thought and effort you put into planning a date. There are plenty of budget-friendly activities that can make your partner f ..read more