Weâre only four months away from 2026. Can you believe it? đ
Iâve been reflecting on the goals I set at the beginning of the year, and while some shifted, Iâm proud of how much Iâve already accomplished. With fresh planner covers and renewed focus, here are my Top 10 Goals for the rest of 2025:
Glow Up Challenge â¨
Daily Movement đŞ
Cooking Daily đł
1,000 Hours Outside đż
Decluttering đ§š
Writing Daily đ
Social Media Presence đą
Blogging More đť
YouTube Growth đĽ
Growth Challenges đ¸
The biggest mindset shift? Moving from hustle mode to consistency mode. I donât need to write 10,000 words in a dayâI just need to show up. Small, steady progress keeps me aligned with my dream of traditional publishing.
If youâre feeling overwhelmed by your own goals, I encourage you to reset. Goals arenât cagesâtheyâre tools to help you grow. đ
Fifteen years ago, I knew two things: I wanted to be a stay-at-home mom, and I wanted to be a writer. But like so many dreamers, I was pushed toward âsafeâ pathsâfirst music education, then PR and corporate social media.
After nearly a decade climbing the corporate ladder, I finally made the leap. I left my six-figure job, became a stay-at-home mom, and gave myself permission to chase writing full-time.
It wasnât easy, but now Iâm living what I call my Cozy Writing Era:
Writing 1,000 words daily instead of chasing unsustainable word sprints.
Embracing seasonal rhythms with fall-themed planner setups.
Allowing progress to be slow, steady, and meaningful.
Dreams donât happen overnight, but I know Iâll get thereâwith discipline, consistency, and joy. If youâre chasing a dream too, remember: you donât have to rush. Cozy seasons still lead to big things. â¨
If youâre craving a spine-tingling love story with a gothic twist, The Midnight Masquerade should be your next read! This urban fantasy romance draws you in with lush, atmospheric settings, unforgettable characters, and a plot laced with just the right amount of intrigue and spice. Hereâs why The Midnight Masquerade is a must-read for fans of Fifty Shades of Grey and A Court of Thorns and Roses.
The Story
Vespera Blackwood is a witch who prefers a quiet night with a good book over a crowd, especially after a bitter falling out with her boyfriend. But when an invitation arrives for an exclusive Halloween masquerade at a remote, gothic manor, she decides to embrace the nightâs mystery. What Vespera doesnât know is that this masquerade is hosted by none other than a dark and captivating vampire king, Theodore Ravenwick, who has been searching for centuries for his fated mate.
As the masqueradeâs magic unfolds, Vespera is drawn deeper into Theoâs worldâa world of immortal secrets, destiny, and undeniable chemistry. But discovering Theoâs true nature is only the beginning; soon, Vespera realizes she may play a far more significant role in this gathering of supernatural elites than she ever imagined.
Why Itâs a Must-Read
The Midnight Masquerade is not just another Halloween romance. Here are some of the top reasons it belongs on your reading list:
Relatable Heroine, Enigmatic Hero Vespera Blackwood, while magical, feels relatable in her cautious heart and reluctant decision to attend the masquerade. Theo Ravenwick, on the other hand, is equal parts danger and allureâa vampire king who has waited lifetimes to meet his destined mate. Their chemistry is palpable and keeps the pages turning as you watch them dance between attraction and caution.
Spicy and Emotional If youâre a fan of romance with a little spice, The Midnight Masquerade doesnât hold back. The connection between Vespera and Theo sizzles with intensity. And while thereâs plenty of passion, their growing relationship also has depth as Vespera uncovers Theoâs vulnerabilities and the weight of his search for a mate.
Perfect Halloween Read This novel is packed with everything Halloween lovers craveâeerie landscapes, masks hiding secret identities, and a plot that unravels just like a mysterious spell. Itâs perfect for cozying up on a crisp fall night with a cup of cider or pumpkin spice.
For Fans of ACOTAR and Fifty Shades
Like A Court of Thorns and Roses, The Midnight Masquerade weaves high stakes, fantasy romance, and complex characters that evolve with every twist. And if you love the sizzling romance in Fifty Shades of Grey, this book will also deliver. Vespera and Theoâs relationship is both passionate and intense, igniting with every moment they share, as though fate itself has drawn them together.
This Halloween, let The Midnight Masquerade sweep you away into a world of dark romance, haunted halls, and fated love. Grab your mask and take your place in this seductive danceâif you dare!
When we talk about glowing up, it’s easy to think about the physical aspectsâweight loss, skincare, fitness goals. While these are important, your glow up is about so much more than just physical transformation. True, lasting glow ups involve a deep internal shift that encompasses your mental and emotional health as well. Itâs not just about looking better on the outside; itâs about feeling better, more confident, and aligned with your best self on the inside.
1. Mental Health Matters
Often, we focus so much on what we can see in the mirror that we forget to take care of our mental well-being. The glow-up journey isn’t complete until your mind feels as strong and clear as your body does. For me, that meant developing healthier thought patterns, working on my emotional resilience, and learning how to embrace positive self-talk. Mental well-being is foundationalâwhen you feel mentally strong and at peace, it shows in everything you do, from how you carry yourself to how you interact with others.
2. Emotional Healing is Key
A major part of my glow up was addressing past emotional baggage. Whether itâs letting go of self-doubt, practicing self-love, or working through limiting beliefs, emotional healing is crucial for personal growth. I realized that to truly âglow up,â I needed to clear out the emotional clutter that had been holding me back. Working on my emotional health allowed me to break free from negative cycles and start living authentically. When you feel emotionally aligned, you radiate a sense of peace and confidence that makes you feel more âglowingâ from the inside out.
3. Your Glow Is a Reflection of How You Treat Yourself
True glow-up isnât just about the transformation others can seeâitâs about how you treat yourself when no one is watching. Are you prioritizing self-care? Setting boundaries? Saying ânoâ when necessary? A huge part of my glow up was creating habits that nourished my body, mind, and spirit. Whether it was meditating for five minutes a day, journaling to process my emotions, or taking moments to simply breathe and reset, these little acts of self-care added up to huge changes in my overall well-being.
4. Confidence Comes From Within
No matter how many workouts you do or how clear your skin gets, if you don’t believe in yourself, that glow won’t truly shine through. Confidence comes from taking action, from pushing past your fears, and from realizing your worth. Your inner transformation is what enables your outer transformation to truly shine.
5. Itâs About Living Aligned With Your Values
A key part of my glow up journey was also about aligning my life with my true values. Itâs easy to get distracted by outside expectations or societal pressure, but when I focused on what truly mattered to meâwhether it was spending quality time with my family, building a career I love, or fostering personal growthâI found my energy and confidence soaring.
6. The Glow Is a Holistic Transformation
While losing 35 pounds and achieving my fitness goals was an important part of my journey, it wasnât the whole picture. The glow-up experience is a holistic oneâitâs about nurturing your body, mind, and spirit. When all three are in alignment, the glow radiates naturally.
In the end, your glow up isnât about achieving perfection or checking off every box on a fitness or beauty list. Itâs about living authentically, feeling confident in who you are, and taking care of your whole selfâinside and out. True glow-ups come from embracing your worth and continuously working on becoming the best version of yourself. Your glow starts from within. đâ¨
If you’re on a glow-up journey too, Iâd love to hear about your experience! How are you nurturing your mental, emotional, and physical health? Drop a comment below!
As someone who spent years working in social media management, I was accustomed to always being plugged in. But when I transitioned to full-time writing and stayed home with my son, I quickly realized just how often I was on my phone. Whether it was checking notifications while my son ate breakfast or mindlessly scrolling in the playroom, my phone was constantly within arm’s reach.
The moment that made me realize something needed to change came when I caught my son staring at me while I was absorbed in my phone. I wasnât doing anything importantâjust scrolling through random social media posts. But seeing him watch me like that, waiting for my attention, broke my heart. I realized I wasnât being the present mom I wanted to be. I wanted to engage with him, to fully experience those little moments, but my phone was pulling me away from himâand from myself.
My First Step: A Simple Rule
To make a change, I decided to set a new rule for myself: no phone in the playroom. When I was spending time with my son, my phone stayed in my office. At first, it felt like a challengeâI was so used to checking my phone at every pause in my day. But what happened next shocked me.
Without the constant distraction, I became so much more present with my son. Instead of scrolling, I would engage with him more, follow his lead in play, and enjoy the simple moments. I noticed how much I was missing before, and how much deeper our connection became when I gave him my full attention. And as a bonus, I also felt more at peace. I was embracing the quiet moments that I had once tried to fill with the noise of digital distractions.
That small change marked the beginning of my digital detox, and it led to so much more than I expected.
Reclaiming Time & Creativity: The Ripple Effect
As a writer, I also began to notice the effect my phone was having on my creativity. I used to turn to my phone whenever I felt bored or uninspired. But over time, I realized that boredom fuels creativity. Instead of using my phone to fill every dull moment, I began to embrace the quiet. I allowed my mind to wander and daydream about my stories.
By putting the phone down, I gave myself the space I needed to truly connect with my characters and plotlines. I wasnât constantly consuming other peopleâs content anymore; I was actively creating my own worlds. I felt more inspired, more focused, and more engaged in my work than ever before.
The digital detox helped me reclaim not just my time but my creative flow. I started writing more, developing richer ideas, and feeling a deeper connection to my work.
How to Start Your Own Digital Detox: Small Steps, Big Results
If youâre considering a digital detox, I encourage you to start small. You donât have to overhaul your entire digital life at once. Focus on one area of your life where you can leave your phone behindâwhether itâs during meal times, family moments, or your creative process. Youâll be amazed at how much more you gain by simply stepping away from the screen.
A digital detox isnât just about limiting screen time; itâs about reclaiming the presentâwhether itâs with your family, in your creative pursuits, or just in your own headspace.
Have you ever tried a digital detox? Iâd love to hear about your experience! What changes did you notice? Letâs talk in the comments below! đ
Keeping a clean home doesnât have to be overwhelming. My biggest cleaning hack is simple but effective: having a daily cleaning routine. Instead of spending hours deep cleaning once a week, I dedicate just one hour a day to maintaining my home. This system keeps everything manageable and prevents messes from piling up.
If youâre looking for a realistic way to keep your home clean without spending all day scrubbing, hereâs exactly how I do it!
My One-Hour Daily Cleaning Routine
Every day, I set aside one hour for cleaning. I follow the same structure each time, which helps me stay focused and efficient. Hereâs my breakdown:
1ď¸âŁ Start with Laundry (5 Minutes) Before I do anything else, I throw a load of laundry in the washer. Itâs a quick and easy task that sets my cleaning session in motion. Plus, by the time I finish my hour, itâs usually ready to be switched to the dryer.
2ď¸âŁ Clean the Kitchen (20 Minutes) The kitchen is the heart of the home, so I always dedicate the most time to it. I: â Wipe down counters and appliances â Load/unload the dishwasher â Clean the sink â Sweep or spot-clean the floor
3ď¸âŁ Tidy the Living Room (10 Minutes) Next, I move to the living room for a quick reset. I: â Put away clutter â Wipe down surfaces â Fluff pillows and straighten blankets â Do a quick vacuum or sweep if needed
4ď¸âŁ Tackle a Bathroom (10 Minutes) With three bathrooms in my home, I pick one per day to clean for ten minutes. Over the course of a few days, all the bathrooms get attention without feeling like a huge chore. My bathroom tasks include: â Wiping down sinks and counters â Scrubbing the toilet â Spot-cleaning mirrors â Emptying trash bins
5ď¸âŁ Pick a Bonus Room (10 Minutes) For the last part of my hour, I choose a different room to clean. This could be: â My office â My bedroom â The guest bedroom â The main hallways
This rotating approach keeps every space in my home tidy without requiring a full deep-cleaning session.
My Favorite Cleaning Hack: Entertainment! đ§
To make my cleaning time more enjoyable, I always have something to listen to. Whether itâs: đş A YouTube video đ§ An audiobook đś A fun playlist
âŚhaving entertainment makes the time fly by, and I actually look forward to my cleaning session instead of dreading it.
Why This Routine Works
â Itâs only an hour. It feels manageable, and I stay motivated since I know I wonât be cleaning all day. â It prevents messes from piling up. Instead of deep-cleaning once a week, I maintain a clean home every day. â It keeps my home guest-ready. No last-minute panic when someoneâs coming over!
If youâre struggling to keep up with housework, try breaking it into a daily one-hour session like I do. Itâs simple, effective, and keeps your home looking great with minimal effort!
Do you have a daily cleaning routine? Let me know in the commentsâIâd love to hear your favorite cleaning hacks!
Water is one of the most underrated elements when it comes to glowing up, but it plays a critical role in achieving both physical and mental well-being. Staying hydrated not only supports healthy skin and energy levels but also helps with weight loss, digestion, and overall body function. As I went through my glow-up journey, improving my water intake was one of the most essential and transformative habits I developed. However, as simple as drinking water sounds, itâs not always easy, especially when life gets busy. So, how do you make sure youâre getting enough water to support your glow up? Letâs dive into some of my favorite water intake tips that helped me stay on track and see results!
1. Set Reminders for Consistency
One of my biggest struggles when I first started focusing on hydration was simply remembering to drink enough water. Between being a new mom, working, and juggling daily responsibilities, it was easy to forget. Thatâs why I set reminders on my phone and Fitbit. I made sure the alarms went off every 2 hours to nudge me to drink more. Sometimes, you just need that extra push to keep going, and these reminders were a game-changer for me. Setting reminders ensures that Iâm not just drinking water when I remember but consistently throughout the day.
2. Chug Instead of Sip
I used to think that the key to staying hydrated was gently sipping on water throughout the day. But with a toddler in tow, that method didnât work for me. Between chasing my little one and staying active, sipping felt like a never-ending task. I switched to drinking larger amounts at once, usually around 20 ounces, every two hours. This way, I could focus on other things without constantly thinking about water. I would just chug a bottle and forget about it until the next reminder went off. For me, this was the most practical approach, and I recommend it to anyone with a busy schedule.
3. Infuse Your Water for Extra Motivation
Sometimes, plain water can get a bit boring. To make it more exciting, I started adding natural flavors. Iâd infuse my water with lemon slices, cucumber, or mint leaves. Not only does it make the water more enjoyable, but the added ingredients also bring their own health benefits. Plus, it can be a fun way to make hydration feel like a treat rather than a chore.
4. Track Your Progress
Another thing that helped me stay on top of my water intake was tracking it. There are plenty of apps out there that can help you log how much water you drink daily. Alternatively, I kept a simple tally on my phone to remind myself if I was on track for the day. Whether you track in an app, a journal, or just a checklist, being able to see your progress gives you a sense of accomplishment and motivates you to keep going.
5. Pair Water with Other Habits
A technique that helped me improve my water intake and stick to it was habit stacking. This is when you combine a new habit with an existing one. For example, I paired drinking my water with other daily activities. I would drink my 20 ounces of water during breakfast, while I was preparing meals, or while my toddler ate his breakfast. I found that this was a great way to make water intake feel like a seamless part of my day. The more I stacked this habit, the easier it became to stay consistent.
6. Hydrate Before, During, and After Exercise
Exercise is one of the times when staying hydrated is especially important. When I started working out regularly as part of my glow-up journey, I made sure to drink water before, during, and after my workout. Staying hydrated helped me maintain my energy levels, especially during intense group fitness classes. In fact, drinking water during workouts not only keeps you hydrated but can also improve your performance. When I realized that hydration was a key part of boosting my results in the gym, I made it a point to never go into a workout dehydrated.
7. Stay Consistent with Your Water Goals
To really see the benefits of hydration on your glow-up journey, you need to stay consistent. While it may seem like a small thing, the cumulative effect of drinking water daily can have a significant impact on your energy, skin health, and overall well-being. Whether you aim for 64 ounces or more, make sure that youâre consistently meeting your hydration goals every single day. Itâs not about perfectionâitâs about building a habit that you can maintain long-term.
Conclusion
Water is essential for so many aspects of your glow-up journey, and by following these tips, you can make sure hydration is working in your favor. By setting reminders, chugging water instead of sipping, and tracking your progress, staying hydrated becomes a manageable and rewarding part of your daily routine. When you add water to your glow-up habits, youâre not just nourishing your bodyâyouâre also giving yourself the energy and clarity you need to shine from the inside out.
After starting my digital detox, I stumbled across the 1,000 Hours Outside movement, a challenge encouraging families to swap screen time for outdoor time. I was instantly hooked.
As a mom and a writer, I knew this was exactly what I needed. So, I made it a personal goal: spend at least 2.5 hours outside every day to hit 1,000 hours in a year.
Why Spend 1,000 Hours Outside?
Research shows that outdoor time benefits both kids and adults: â Improves mental health â Boosts creativity â Regulates sleep cycles â Strengthens family bonds
For me, it also served as a reminder to disconnect from digital noise and reconnect with the world around me.
How We Make It Work
Daily Walks â Whether it’s a stroller walk or a hike, we make fresh air a priority.
Picnic Meals â Eating outside adds a little magic to the day.
Outdoor Play â Instead of TV time, my son and I play at the park or in our backyard.
Nature Adventures â Even a simple trip to throw rocks in a creek feels like an adventure.
The Impact So Far
Since committing to this challenge, Iâve noticed a huge shift. My son is happier, I feel less stressed, and my creativity is thriving. Plus, nothing beats the feeling of sunshine on your skin.
If youâre feeling stuck in a screen rut, I highly recommend giving this challenge a try. Have you heard of 1,000 Hours Outside? Letâs chat in the comments!
Letâs talk about embracing your inner girly girl đ If thatâs something youâve been feeling called toward lately, youâre in the right place! In this post, Iâm diving into how your outer and inner appearance and style can help set the tone for stepping into your soft, feminine energy.
1. Presentation Matters
How you present yourself truly sets the tone for what youâre putting out into the world. That doesnât mean being perfectâit means being intentional. One of the easiest ways to start? Your nails.
I get mine done every two weeks (sparkly is always my personal fave â¨). If youâre not into glitter, even a clean, classic manicure can make you feel polished and put together. Just having tidy, well-maintained hands makes such a difference.
2. Your Signature Scent
You know that feeling when someone walks past and they just smell like theyâve got their life together? Yeah, that. Pick a signature scent that speaks to you. Mine is a mix of vanilla and coconutâromantic, timeless, and a little flirty. It makes me feel girly and grounded.
You want something that leaves a soft impression as you pass byâfeminine and memorable.
3. Style Your Wardrobe for You
Nowâs the time to reassess your closet. Ask yourself: What makes me feel feminine? What makes me feel like the main character? Itâs okay to have comfy pieces for chores or errands, but donât be afraid to add dresses, skirts, or even workout clothes (hello, tennis dress!) that bring out your soft, confident side.
I personally love having a few tennis dresses in rotation for when I work out or run errands. Theyâre comfy, cute, and make me feel like that girl.
4. Create an Aesthetic Life
Youâre the main character. So treat your life like it! From your skincare routine to your sheets and pajamas, romanticize your environment. Soft, clean sheets. Cozy, cute pajamas. Light a candle. Turn on your fairy lights. Itâs not just about how it looksâitâs about how it feels.
5. Keep Skincare Simple (But Consistent)
I used to do a 10-step routine, but honestly? Simple is better. These days I stick to 4-5 steps that really work for me.
The key is consistencyânot perfection. Cleanser, toner, moisturizer, SPF, and maybe one treatment serum. Thatâs it. Ohâand drink your water, girl. Hydration is â¨everythingâ¨.
Go chug a glass right now. Iâll wait.
6. Move in a Way That Makes You Feel Beautiful
Whether itâs lifting, yoga, or a group class like Body Pump, choose workouts that make you feel confident and strong. You donât need to feel beautiful during (letâs be real, Iâm a sweaty mess lol), but afterward? Absolutely.
7. Speak with Kindness and Intention
One of the most beautiful things about feminine energy is the kindness that flows from it. Start speaking to yourselfâand othersâwith love. Words carry energy. Make yours soft, but strong.
That means giving yourself grace, using gentler words, and choosing love over judgmentâeven when itâs hard.
8. Boundaries Are Beautiful
Being feminine isnât about being a pushover. Itâs about knowing your worth. Set boundaries with grace, but be firm. Know what you will and wonât accept. Thatâs part of honoring your softness.
Boundaries protect your peace and help you stay aligned with your feminine energy.
9. Journal It Out
Your dreams. Your goals. Your gratitude. Write it all down. Journaling connects you to your inner world and helps you stay aligned with your intentions. Itâs girly, powerful, and grounding all at once.
Closing Thought: Femininity is strength and softness. Itâs not about having a pink room or perfect hairâitâs about feeling good in your skin, embracing joy, and choosing beauty in your everyday life.
So put on your favorite lip gloss, press play on that fire playlist, and go be that girl đ
When I first started my glow up journey, I knew one thing for sure: I needed to make fitness a regular part of my life. As a new mom, my energy levels were low, and I was feeling sluggishâoften struggling with basic things like climbing stairs or carrying my baby. It was clear that something needed to change. But one of the most important decisions I made was not just about starting to work outâit was about choosing the right kind of workout for me. Thatâs where fitness classes played a major role in helping me lose 35 pounds and completely transform my life.
Accountability and Motivation
One of the most significant factors in my fitness success was choosing group fitness classes. Initially, I thought about working out at home or going to the gym on my own. But, after some thought, I realized that group classes were what I truly needed. Group workouts helped me stay consistent, not only because I was part of a community but because I knew that people were counting on me to show up. This accountability motivated me to get out of bed early, push myself during each session, and stay committed to my goals.
Fitness classes also introduced a sense of camaraderie that made the entire experience more enjoyable. I wasnât just showing up for myself, but for a group of people who were all working toward similar fitness goals. I saw familiar faces every time, which made me feel like I was part of a fitness family. And it wasnât just about working outâit was about creating friendships, building connections, and having fun along the way.
Varied Workouts for a Full-Body Transformation
Another benefit of group fitness classes is the variety of workouts available. I didnât have to worry about planning a routine or trying to figure out what exercises to do nextâeach class was structured and targeted different aspects of fitness, such as strength, flexibility, and cardio. For me, classes like Body Pump, Body Balance, and yoga were key to my weight loss success.
Body Pump: This class focused on strength training, and it was perfect for building lean muscle and boosting my metabolism. The mix of weightlifting and high-repetition exercises helped tone my body, and I could feel myself getting stronger each week.
Body Balance: This class combined elements of yoga and Pilates, which helped improve my flexibility and balance. It also gave me a mental break and allowed me to focus on deep breathing and relaxation. I found that doing these types of workouts helped reduce stress and contributed to my overall well-being.
Yoga: Yoga helped me become more in tune with my body. It gave me time to slow down, stretch, and take care of my mind and body. It also helped me recover from intense workouts, keeping my muscles flexible and preventing injuries.
By consistently taking these classes, I didnât just lose weightâI also improved my overall fitness and mental health. The combination of strength training, stretching, and cardio allowed me to see results in all areas of my body, giving me the toned and fit physique I was striving for.
The Joy of Group Support
The best part about fitness classes was the support and encouragement I received from instructors and fellow participants. Instructors would cheer me on, push me to work harder, and celebrate my progress, no matter how small. This kind of positive reinforcement helped me stay focused and motivated, especially on days when I felt exhausted or discouraged.
There were also plenty of times when the other participants would share their journeys, offer advice, or simply encourage me to keep going. Knowing that we were all working toward the same goalâbecoming healthier and strongerâmade it easier to push through challenging workouts. This shared energy created an uplifting environment that made the process of getting fitter much more enjoyable.
The Power of Consistency
Fitness classes became an essential part of my routine, and consistency was key to my success. I started going six days a week, and I was amazed by how quickly my body responded. Not only did I lose the 35 pounds I had gained during pregnancy, but I also gained muscle, improved my posture, and built a level of endurance I never thought possible.
The structure of the classes made it easier to stay on track. Having a set schedule each week kept me disciplined, and knowing I had a class to look forward to motivated me to stay active even on days when I wasnât feeling up to it.
The Bottom Line: Find What Works for You
What Iâve learned from my experience is that fitness is not a one-size-fits-all approach. What works for one person might not work for another, and thatâs okay. For me, fitness classes were the perfect solution, but if group workouts donât appeal to you, thatâs fine too. The important part is finding something you enjoy and can stick to in the long run.
If youâre struggling with motivation or just donât know where to start, I recommend trying out a few different types of fitness classes or activities. You might be surprised by how much you enjoy a class that you initially thought wasnât for you. The most important thing is to find something that feels right and keeps you coming back for more.
Losing 35 pounds was not about an extreme transformationâit was about making small, consistent changes that built up over time. Fitness classes were a game-changer for me, and Iâm so grateful for the community, support, and motivation they provided. If youâre ready to start your fitness journey, remember that the right workout can make all the difference.
Elizabeth Yuen 