Why a Small “I Will” Is More Powerful Than a Flood of “I Wishes”
During fifth grade, our classroom became the temporary home to a traveling library of animals brought to us by a local college. To a child…
What I Wish I Knew Before Living Alone
As a child, I thought that living alone meant doing whatever you wanted. While I occasionally live out this childhood belief (usually by eating unlimited…
When FOBO (Fear of Better Options) Leaves You With No Options
Throughout college, I excelled at making even the most last-minute plans possible. While other friends diligently planned out their weekly calendars, I did my best…
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,…
Going Green-ish: Tiny Changes for a Healthier Earth
In my early 20s, I lived alone for the very first time. With no roommates around, I quickly realized how much trash I personally produced,…
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.…
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…
Why My Journalism Degree Is Useful (Even Though I’m Not a Journalist)
In college, I majored in photojournalism, a major that more than one person reminded me was a dying profession. I’m rather stubborn, though, so I…
3 Ways to Plan a Creative 4th of July Celebration
Coming from a family with a strong love of holiday traditions, I’m more than mildly surprised that our Fourth of Julys vary so much from…
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…