Rethinking Conflict: How I Learned to Have More Honest Conversations
For most of my teens and early 20s, I had this idea that the best way to deal with discomfort or conflict was to pretend…
6 Thank You Cards to Write Before Graduation
In college, I was a stickler when it came to sending thank you cards. A jacket from an aunt, new socks from my folks, and,…
Why I Always Celebrate Friend-versaries
In September 2008, I rolled out of bed at the tender hour of 5:50 a.m. and started my first day of work making breakfast burritos…
How Creative Packing Made Trips More Interesting
My desire to become an efficient packer grew out of frugalness more than anything. As a childhood packrat, I never put much intention into packing.…
How I Accomplished More After Giving up New Year’s Resolutions
I’ve never felt drawn to traditional New Year’s resolutions. For me, the thought of creating a specific challenge that lasts 365 days felt a little…
How Alternative Gift-Giving Makes My Holiday Season Brighter
During my childhood, gifts were typically reserved for Christmas and birthdays. Whenever I spotted an advertisement for some fun new toy, I knew I had…
How I Learned to Confront Indecision
Several years ago, I decided to hike a section of the Pacific Crest Trail. In the months leading up to the trip, I scoured hiking…
Staying Curious: How Saying Yes Makes Life More Interesting
Several years ago, I found myself wedged under my car, staring up at the skid plate that stood between me and the oil drain plug.…
Long-Distance Family: Staying Connected Across the Miles
Nearly a decade ago, my family left Wisconsin, drove our minivan 1,500 miles to Montana, dropped me at my dorm, waved goodbye, and drove 1,500…
Weekends With My Sister: How Hiking Helped Us Grow Closer
There is a six-year age gap between my youngest sister and me. As children, we fought constantly, which perpetually baffled my mother. “You’re six years…
