Author: Brooke F.

I’m a college student who has unrealistic dreams of being a famous authoress who writes mystery novels. Either that or a goblin... haven't decided which. I live on a farm up on a hilltop where the wind likes to mess up my hair and the trees sway poetically in the wind.

TikTok and Promoting your Writing: My-not-so-Scientific Findings

~ Brooke F. ~ 5 Comments

I gave TikTok a shot. I really did. I have a WIP poetry book, and frankly, poetry is coming out of my ears at this point. Why not see if TikTok could help me get some eyes on my work? A little poetic clout, perhaps? I have seen so many creators get a nice little audience boost from tik tok but that led me to ask a few questions: First off, how long does this take? Second, how luck based is it? And third, is it something I could even remotely pull off? The only sure-fire way to figure this out for myself was to try. For about 2 weeks. (Ok, ok, it’s not that long of a time frame but I just wanted to give it a quick little go, alright?)

TikTok is an interesting creature when it comes to promoting writing. It moves fast. I soon found out that it moved so fast that most users are like ships passing in the night. They’ll comment something like “Wow, love this!” and then vanish, never to be seen again. Which is nice in the moment, but also? Not super helpful when you’re trying to build a consistent audience.

It seems like the only way to really win at TikTok is to post every single day (consistently for more than two weeks), possibly even multiple times a day, for an extended period of time. And I don’t know about you, but I have a full-time job. I have a life. I have two cats who expect me to provide them with a high standard of living. I cannot be out here churning out viral poetry videos while also making sure I have clean laundry.

Oh, and the algorithm is super punishing if you miss a day or two. When I built what felt like momentum towards the middle of the first week, it was great. My videos were consistently getting around 600-900 views. Then I missed a day and it felt like I was starting on square one all over again.

By the end of the experiment, I ended up with around 49 followers and 1,421 likes. A little disappointing especially given my account had around 40 posts one it. So, I gained like a follower per post I guess? No wonder people have to post a lot to gain traction with that kind of math!

So, for now, my TikTok writing experiment is on pause. But maybe one day, when I have the time (or when my poetry royalties pay my rent—ha!), I’ll give it another go.

Until then, I’ll just be over here, writing poetry and thinking about posting it on TikTok. I hope you’ve found this post insightful and maybe even…helpful? Perhaps I have squelched your curiosity when it comes to sharing your writing on tik tok or at least answered a question or two.

AI for Writers: How to Use it Ethically

~ Brooke F. ~ Leave a comment

In a world teeming with AI-generated essays, AI-written novels, and even AI poetry (which, let’s be honest, reads like it was composed by a very earnest but deeply uninspired toaster), creatives everywhere are understandably wary. The existential crisis among writers is real.

I, too, have had my moments of wild optimism. AI seemed like such a useful tool! An endless supply of writing prompts? An easy way to get revision advice? Blog post title suggestions so I don’t have to stare at a blank screen in despair? Sign me up!

Oh, how naive I was.

I didn’t fully comprehend the sheer scope of AI misuse. AI-written books clogging up Amazon? Students submitting entire AI-generated essays as their own? As I watched the chaos unfold, I started to wonder: is there a way to use AI ethically as a writer? Or am I a hopeless fraud for even considering it?

After much reflection, I’ve come to this conclusion: AI and computers exist to do the boring stuff. The soul-sucking, time-wasting tasks that drain the joy from creativity. But the actual creating? That’s the part I want to hold onto. Because honestly, why would I want to shortcut the best part of writing? AI writing is often as bland as a bowl of plain oatmeal. No sugar. No nuts.

AI feels less like a foe or friend and more like a really boring intern/writing assistant in my humble opinion.

So, in the interest of making peace with AI (and ensuring it remains a helpful assistant rather than an artistic overlord), I’ve compiled a list of ways writers can use AI ethically and usefully without sacrificing their creative souls.

1. Character Development

Stuck on how your main character would react in a specific scenario? Describe them to AI and ask how they might logically respond. Or, better yet, throw them into a random situation and see what AI suggests and then tweak it until it actually feels like your character. Develop it. Run with it. Think of it as a digital version of those acting exercises where you “become” your character so to speak.

2. Synonyms: Because “Thingamajig” is too vague I guess

We’ve all been there: that word is right there on the tip of your tongue, but your brain has checked out for the day. AI can help you find the perfect synonym without forcing you into a three-hour thesaurus rabbit hole (which somehow always ends with you reading about the etymology of “spork”).

3. World-Building Without the Headache

Need to develop a magic system? A fictional government? A convincing but totally made-up economy? AI won’t write it for you, but it will ask you logical, specific questions that help flesh out your world. Think of it as a world-building coach, but not a ghostwriter.

4. Writing Exercises: When Your Muse is on Vacation

AI is great for generating writing prompts and exercises when you need a little jumpstart. You can take what it gives you and twist it into something uniquely yours. Don’t use it to write the whole thing. Use it to springboard you into your own little writing project.

5. Helping You Tackle That One Problem Paragraph

Ever stare at a paragraph, knowing it’s bad but not quite sure why? AI can help you pinpoint what’s off. Whether it’s tense shifts, awkward phrasing, overuse of adverbs (my personal Achille’s heel). It’s something akin to a second pair of eyes giving your work a quick glance, minus the existential dread of asking another human for feedback. (Though, personally, a real human is needed to fully help you realize the full potential of your work but maybe I’m just stuck in the stone age.)

6. Titling: The Worst Part of Writing (Fight Me)

I am a “working title” kind of person. If left to my own devices, all my drafts would be titled “Ugh, I’ll Fix This Later.” AI helps me generate blog post and chapter title ideas so I can get back to the fun part—actually writing the thing.

Final Thoughts

AI isn’t evil, but it also isn’t a replacement for creativity. It’s a tool. It’s a tool that, when used wisely, can make writing easier without making it soulless. Let’s not let it take over. After all, writing is about creating, not just generating words.

Harvest’s End: A Little Autumn-y short story

~ Brooke F. ~ 6 Comments

I realize this isn’t the correct season to post this but I found it perusing my post archives and realized I never posted it. So, here’s a little bit of Halloween in March. Hope you enjoy! ❤

~*~

“Look, it’s a full moon tonight,” said Tim, holding the freshly carved pumpkin.

“Yep,” replied his sister, Emma. “It’s perfect for Halloween.”

Tim placed the pumpkin on the porch, the candlelight flickering through the carved eyes and mouth. He stepped back and admired his handiwork. The pumpkin looked alive, eager to be part of the night’s festivities.

“What should we name him?” asked Tim.

Emma examined the pumpkin’s toothy grin. “He looks like an Evan.”

Tim wrinkled his nose. “That’s too human.”

“Well, Jack is too cliché,” Emma sighed. “How about Casper? That sounds Halloween-y.”

“Casper was a ghost,” Tim objected. “This pumpkin is orange.”

The twins thought hard until Tim suggested, “What about Rusty?”

This satisfied them both. “Rust it is,” Emma conceded with a nod.

And so his name was Rusty. Rusty felt fortunate to have a name, unlike the smaller pumpkin stationed on the other side of the door, which had been carved by their parents. The twins didn’t even seem to notice the other pumpkin before going back inside to work on their Halloween costumes. It didn’t bother the other pumpkin; both knew they had a job to do.

As the evening fell, Rusty began to feel the warmth of the candle inside him. The flame grew stronger, casting eerie shadows across the porch. The nameless pumpkin had told him about the children dressed in costumes that would soon arrive, looking for treats. Rusty was ready to shine his light and help them find their way their way to the candy bowl.

The first group of trick-or-treaters appeared at the end of the driveway, their eyes lighting up at the sight of Rusty’s glow. They approached the porch, chattering amongst themselves. Rusty felt his heart swell with joy as they exclaimed over his grinning face. One little girl, dressed as a fairy, reached out to touch his carved cheek, her eyes wide as the warmth felt the candle’s warmth against her fingers.

“This one’s got a nice smile,” she told her mother before turning her attention to the selection of candy bars that was being offered. It would be the most important decision of the night after all.

The twins had gone all out with the decorations this year, with spider webs stretching from the porch railings and a scarecrow standing guard over the pumpkin duo. Rusty watched as the children made their selections from the candy bowl, comparing their choices to the others’. The nameless pumpkin was silent beside him, a comforting weight as the night grew darker. Rusty promised himself he’d remember this night forever.

But, like everything, Halloween came and went, and the night passed.

The trick-or-treaters had thinned out, leaving only the occasional straggler to knock on the door. Rusty felt the chill of the night as the candles inside them began to die out, leaving him in darkness. As the warmth of the flame disappeared, he felt strangely hollow, missing its warmth.

In the days that followed, Rusty noticed his smile wasn’t as bright anymore. The edges of his eyes began to sink, and his cheeks grew less plump. When the children passed by without a second glance, he felt a heaviness settle in his chest. He no longer had the joy of trick-or-treaters tromping by but now had to content himself with watching the twins leave for school. Quietly, Rusty hoped the twins would remember him and reignite his candle once more. They did not.

One morning, Rusty mustered the courage to ask the nameless pumpkin next to him, “Why am I changing?”

The nameless pumpkin looked at him with a knowing gaze. “It’s called ‘rotting,’ my friend,” he said gently.

“What’s rotting?”

The nameless pumpkin took a deep, slow breath, his expression calm and tone even. “It’s what happens to all of us after Halloween. We were picked from the patch, carved, and filled with light to bring joy to others. But now, our purpose is fading.”

Rusty’s heart sank. He didn’t want to fade. He enjoyed being the beacon on the porch, the focal point of the twins’ Halloween wonderland. “Can’t we do something to stop it?” he asked.

The nameless pumpkin’s wrinkled eyes looked sad. “This is the natural cycle of our existence. After we’ve served our purpose, we return to the earth. It’s the way of things.”

Rusty stared into the night, the flickering memory of his flame bright in his mind. But what happens after? Will anyone remember us?  The idea of disappearing into the ground frightened him, but each day, he could feel his form softening, his grin losing shape, and his light growing dimmer.

One evening, Emma came out to the porch with a sad look on her face. She picked up Rusty, examining him closely. “You’re not looking too good, buddy,” she said as she examined his softening smile and dark moldy spots. Tim joined her, and together they decided it was time to say goodbye to the pumpkins that had served their purpose and brought joy to many children.

They carried Rusty and his companion to the backyard, where they had a small compost pile, placing the two pumpkins gently onto the soft mound. “This is where we go when we’re done,” whispered the nameless pumpkin. “This is our graveyard.”

Rusty felt the cool earth beneath him, in stark contrast to the warmth of his candle—a memory now distant. He watched as the twins’ footsteps faded into the house, leaving him and the nameless pumpkin to the quiet night and the cold ground.

Days turned into weeks, and the porch grew quieter. The decorations were packed away, and the only visitors to the backyard were squirrels and birds. Rusty felt a strange kinship with his silent companion as they softened and shrank together. Just as he felt his form begin to disappear, the nameless pumpkin whispered, “Look.”

Beside him, a tiny sprout pushed its way through the soil, unfurling a pair of delicate green leaves. “We’re not gone. We’ve just changed. Our light has dimmed, but we’re giving way to life.”

Rusty stared at the sprout, a mix of confusion and wonder filling him. The idea of being part of something bigger brought him comfort. He watched the plant grow stronger, its green tendrils weaving through the remnants of their former selves.

As the days grew shorter and the air crisper, Rusty felt his body softening more, his shell collapsing inward. Yet, his friend’s words remained clear in his mind. “Even in our end, we are the beginning.”

Rusty felt his essence seeping into the soil. The thought didn’t scare him as much anymore. He surrendered to the earth at last, watching the fall leaves drift around him in a flurry of color. It was a peaceful end.

Winter turned to spring, bringing sunshine, birds, and blossoms.

One warm autumn afternoon, Tim and Emma found a tiny pumpkin sprout stretching up from their compost pile. Over the course of summer, this sprout grew into a small pumpkin plant, its vines stretching out, claiming the space that had once belonged to Rusty and the nameless pumpkin. By October, it bore small, round pumpkins—a miniature reflection of those before.

When Halloween came, the twins selected the largest pumpkin from the patch. “This one,” Tim said, holding it up. “Nice and plump.”

Emma nodded in agreement. They carried it inside and laid out their carving tools. That night, as they finished their work and placed a candle inside, the pumpkin’s grin grew wide as the flickering flame filled him with warmth. It was an almost familiar warmth.

A Review of Logseq: Is it a Valid Obsidian Alternative?

~ Brooke F. ~ Leave a comment

So, I heard all the hype about Obsidian. Yaknow, the digital brain-builder everyone’s (or at least my side of the internet) raving about. Naturally, I was intrigued by the idea of weaving a web of my thoughts into an interconnected masterpiece. But then I saw the price tag. I wasn’t exactly thrilled to part with my money just yet.

So after a little googling I came up with Log Seq. It’s the free alternative that claims to do the same thing. By the same thing I mean build a network of your thoughts like some sort of mind-map wizardry. So, I took it for a spin for a week, all in the name of saving a buck (or several). Here’s how it went.

The Good Stuff

First off, Log Seq is phenomenal. Like, truly fascinating. The ability to link thoughts, ideas, and random musings into this complex web of information is seriously cool. I started from scratch, and by the end of the week, I had an impressive digital mind-map that was organized based off of tags. My main tags were #poetry, #science, #writing, #religion.

The Not-So-Good Stuff

There is only one thing that I really think hurts the log seq experience. Log Seq has no app. And while typing on my laptop is fine when I’m already sitting at it, capturing thoughts throughout the day? Not so much. I don’t know about you, but I have a knack for coming up with my best ideas at the most inconvenient times. Like, standing in line for coffee or pretending to listen during a meeting. Without an app to sync my thoughts, I was left trying to remember everything until I got back to my laptop… which is like trying to carry water in a colander. To well that’s reaaaally far away. An unneccessary metaphor I know. It’s just a funny mental image.

The Verdict

So, would I recommend Log Seq? Definitely. Especially if you’ve got the discipline to sit down and dump your brain at the end of the day. If not, you might be out of luck until they roll out an app. But overall, it’s an incredible tool with a ton of potential. I might just keep using it (at least until my wallet decides Obsidian is worth it).

Oh, and as promised, here’s my brain-web after a week of using Log Seq.

So, what do you think? Have you tried Log Seq or Obsidian? Do you have any other alternatives I should check out? Drop a comment below!

okay byeeee

Why You Need a “Second Brain” (And the Best Apps to Build One)

~ Brooke F. ~ 3 Comments

Look, my brain is a chaotic place. If I had to describe it, I’d say it’s like an overstuffed filing cabinet, but maybe one that got shook up in a move? Thoughts, ideas, grocery lists, and random existential crises. It’s all jumbled together, friends. I tried keeping track of everything in a planner, in my Notes app, and sometimes in an actual, physical notebook. Unsurprisingly, is still felt as if I was forgetting too much. Mostly writing ideas, maybe a grocery list item here and an appointment there.

That’s when I started doing some digging into the concept of a “second brain.” It’s basically a note-taking system where you offload all your thoughts, ideas, tasks (basically everything) into one organized digital space. The idea is to free up your actual brain for, you know, thinking, rather than frantically trying to remember where you wrote down that brilliant idea at 3 a.m.

I’ve only been looking into this for about a week and a half but here’s what I’ve found as far as notetaking/second brain apps go. I’ll give you a quick summary of each based off of my research and some quick clicking around and experimentation plus my personal opinion of each. Though, I WILL mention that I think each has it’s own strengths and may tailor itself to a different type of brain than mine. So, as cliche as it is, I’ll say to each their own.

Logseq: The Powerhouse for Outliners

If you’re a fan of bullet points, outlines, and linking your thoughts like a digital spider web, Logseq is your new best friend. It’s a free (this is the word that convinced me), open-source app that lets you create daily notes, build outlines, and interlink ideas like crazy. I love it because it’s local-first (meaning my notes are stored on my device, not in the cloud), and it uses plain text files, so I never have to worry about losing my data. Plus, the bi-directional linking lets me see how my thoughts connect over time—perfect for writing projects and organizing ideas. It is a little bare bones I will say and in using it, I definitely wish they had an app so I could sync all my ideas that I take on my phone to my software on my computer. Oh well, can’t have everything.

Why I Love It:

  • Local storage and privacy.
  • Bi-directional linking (think digital mind maps).
  • Outlining is its superpower.
  • It’s free!

Who It’s For:
People who love structure, outlines, and organizing their thoughts in a non-linear way. Writers, researchers, and obsessive list-makers. And for those of us who don’t want to spend money but want something like Obsidian minus the subscription. Which, speaking of which…

Obsidian: The Mind Mapper

Obsidian is the cool kid on the block that everyone’s talking about. It’s all about connecting your ideas with backlinks and visualizing them as a network of thoughts. If you’ve ever wanted to see how your ideas relate to each other like a digital conspiracy board (red strings and all), this is your app (MUCH like Log Seq, like I said).

Why It’s Popular:

  • Graph view to visualize your notes and their connections.
  • Customizable with a ton of community-made plugins.
  • Markdown-based (plain text files for the win).
  • Has an app with across device syncing.

Who It’s For:
Visual thinkers who like seeing the bigger picture. Great for creative projects, research, and anyone who likes to link ideas together. But, as mentioned before, you have to subscribe for this service. If you’re okay with dropping some cash, this one definitely looks the cleanest of all the network based notetaking apps.

Evernote: The Veteran with All the Bells and Whistles

Ah, Evernote. It’s been around forever, and for good reason. It’s toolbox is incredibly diverse. You can save text notes, voice memos, images, web clippings, and even PDFs. It syncs across all devices, so you can access your notes anywhere. But there’s a catch: the free version is pretty limited, and the premium version isn’t cheap (sorry to keep mentioning money but if you’re something like me, you might not have money to burn).

What It’s Good At:

  • Capturing everything—text, voice, images, web clippings.
  • Powerful search features, including text within images.
  • Easy syncing across multiple devices.

Who It’s For:
People who need an all-in-one digital filing cabinet. If you’re constantly gathering information from different sources and want it all in one place, Evernote is your go-to. Just be okay with spending money.

Notion: The All-in-One Workspace

With Notion you can take notes, manage tasks, build databases, and even design a personal wiki. It’s visually appealing and highly customizable, but it can be overwhelming at first because of how much it can do. I tried it for a while, but it felt like using a sledgehammer to crack a nut (just a bit overkill). That said, some people absolutely swear by it for its flexibility and diversity.

What Makes It Stand Out:

  • Highly customizable pages and templates.
  • Collaborative features for team projects.
  • Can be used as a note-taking app, project manager, and even a personal wiki.

Who It’s For:
Power users who want everything in one place. Probably really awesome for someone who does a lot of computer work for their job. If you like customizing workflows and want your notes, tasks, and databases all in one app, Notion is your playground.

Which One’s Right for You?

Choosing a second brain is, as most things are, up to your own personal taste and what type of record keeping jives with your brain. If you love outlining and linking ideas, give Logseq or Obsidian a try. Want a digital Swiss Army knife? Notion’s your best bet. Need a reliable all-in-one solution with easy syncing? Go for Evernote. And if you want something simple, there is definitely no shame in using your phone notes.

Personally, Logseq has caught my eye and I will probably make a whole other post based off of my experience with it. But, if any of the other apps or programs have caught your fancy, why not give ’em a go?

Maybe it’s time to give your brain a break and get yourself a second one. Just a thought. Or maybe mine’s the only one that needs a breather. Either way, thanks for reading!

The Day Microsoft Word and I Broke Up (and How LibreOffice Became My Rebound)

~ Brooke F. ~ 3 Comments

Picture this: A snow day. A rare, magical off day gifted by the powers of winter. Naturally, I did what any introverted poet would do—I decided to spend my day cozied up, writing for my dearest poetry book draft. Dreams of metaphorical brilliance danced through my head as I opened my laptop and double-clicked on my Word document.

And then—BAM. A digital slap to the face.

I couldn’t access my own document. Why? Because my Microsoft Office license, previously covered by my college, had expired. Since I’m no longer a student (shoutout to adulthood and its many expenses), this wasn’t a complete shocker. But the nerve. I was at least a little offended.

Out of curiosity, I decided to see how much it would cost to renew. I figured it couldn’t be that bad. I mean, it’s just a word processor, right?

Y’all. Ten bucks a month. A hundred dollars a year.

FOR WORDS.

Now, I’d like to think I’m a reasonable person, but this was some highway robbery. And the kicker? I couldn’t even open my original document unless I coughed up the cash. Sure, I could access it through the online version of Word, but that interface looked like it had a midlife crisis. Crowded, clunky, and as intuitive as a brick wall. And syncing it? Ha. Not happening.

That’s when I hit my limit. I had a poetry book to write, snow day vibes to enjoy, and I wasn’t about to let corporate greed ruin my creative flow. Determined, I opened a new tab and searched for alternatives. That’s when I met my new best friend: LibreOffice.

Let me tell you, LibreOffice is basically Microsoft Office but without the corporate handcuffs. It’s free, offline, and lets me open my own documents without asking for my credit card information. Revolutionary, right?

The best part? It felt just like old-school Word. Simple. Functional. No frills, no nonsense. And, most importantly, no monthly payments draining my bank account. I could write my poetry in peace, snow softly falling outside, without feeling like I had to sell a kidney just to access my own words.

So, here we are. Microsoft Word and I? We’re done. I’ve moved on. LibreOffice and I are getting along great, thank you very much. And the moral of the story? If a company tries to hold your words hostage for a hundred bucks a year, maybe it’s time to break up and find someone (or something) better.

LibreOffice, you’re the real MVP. And Microsoft? Yeah, we’re never, ever getting back together.

Trying Something New Every Day for a Week: A Mini Adventure

~ Brooke F. ~ 5 Comments

I’m a big believer in the idea that small adventures make life more interesting. So, I decided to challenge myself to try something new every day for a week. These would be little things that would shake up my routine and maybe introduce me to a new favorite. So, without further ado, here’s how it went:

Day 1: Sushi Exploration

I’ve had sushi before, but I wouldn’t call myself a sushi connoisseur. My local deli recently started making a variety of sushi rolls, so I figured, why not? I quickly learned that I do not like sour-tasting sauces (I wasn’t expecting it to be so….tangy?), but I loved the spicy shrimp roll. A new go-to? Possibly. The experience overall was a 3/5.

Day 2: A New Coffee Spot

I’m always down for a new coffee experience, so I visited a café called White Bison. Cozy vibes? Check. Good coffee? Absolutely. I ordered a toffee latte, which was perfectly sweet and nutty. The coffee shop also had a nice, homey atmosphere and even had an upper floor. I can imagine it would be a great study spot.

Day 3: Discovering a New Music Artist

Music discovery is one of my favorite low-effort, high-reward experiences. This time, I stumbled upon Sara Groves, a Christian songwriter and composer. Her lyricism is chef’s kiss, and my favorite song so far is Lay It Down. Highly recommend if you like thoughtful, faith-filled lyrics.

Day 4: Trying Matcha

I finally gave matcha a shot. It’s one of those things that everyone seems to love, so I had to see what the hype was about. Verdict? It’s good…but only if I drown it in vanilla cold foam and sweetener. Otherwise, it tastes a little too earthy for me. Something akin to mowing the lawn with your mouth open. I’d love to learn to make it my sweet way at home and maybe swap it up a bit so I’m not always consuming an ungodly amount of coffee.

Day 5: Testing a New Recipe

I decided to bake cheddar and ham muffins, and let me tell you, friend, they were way better than expected. Soft, cheesy, savory, and surprisingly filling. These might just be my new favorite breakfast meal prep. This was probably my 5/5 experience for the week.

Overall, this little experiment was a fun reminder that trying new things doesn’t have to be dramatic or life-changing. Even the smallest discoveries such as a new coffee order or a song that resonates—adds richness to everyday life. Who knows? Maybe I’ll keep this streak going! It’s been a fun little challenge to brighten up my now regular 9-5 work schedule. It’s easy to let time get away from you when you work a regular job I’m realizing. This little challenge felt like it helped me be more present and make better use of my time (be more experimental in small ways).

So! Now I’m going to turn the question to you, dear audience! What’s something new you’ve tried lately?

Choosing the Right Web Builder for Your Blog

~ Brooke F. ~ Leave a comment

Choosing the Right Web Builder for Your Blog: My Honest Thoughts on WIX, WordPress, Blogspot, and Tumblr

When it comes to starting a blog, one of the first and most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right platform to build it on. As a writer who’s tinkered with several web builders, I’ve learned that not all platforms are created equal. Each one comes with its own quirks, benefits, and, of course, irritations. Here’s my take on four popular web builders: WIX, WordPress, Blogspot, and Tumblr. Below you will find my opinions of each web builder and what it’s rightful ranking is (by means of a 5 star-system).

Alright, I believe this should be fairly straight forward, so let’s get on with it, shall we?

1. WIX – 3 Stars

WIX is often marketed as a “drag-and-drop” dream. And I’ll admit, the platform is visually appealing with its sleek templates and easy customization options. If you want your blog to look like an art gallery, WIX might seem like the perfect choice.

But here’s the catch: unless you’re willing to pay for their premium plan, good luck showing up on any search engines. SEO (search engine optimization) isn’t exactly WIX’s strong suit without opening your wallet. Plus, while the interface is simple, it feels almost too simple, like it’s holding back features you might need for a more robust blog.

For casual bloggers who aren’t worried about visibility, WIX could work. But if you’re looking to grow an audience organically, I’d suggest looking elsewhere. You may have a lovely site but one that no one sees (unless you want to pay a fair bit of moolah).

2. WordPress – 4 Stars

WordPress is the overachiever of web builders, and honestly, I’m impressed. With its detailed customization options and extensive plugin library, WordPress has everything you need to make a blog that feels truly your own.

What really makes WordPress shine is that it (mostly) doesn’t penalize you for staying on the free plan. You can still drive traffic to your site and enjoy a surprising amount of creative freedom without feeling like you’re missing out. Personally, I’m not a premium user, and I’ve been more than happy with what the platform offers.

However, the learning curve can be a little steep for beginners. WordPress has so many options that it can feel overwhelming at first. But once you get the hang of it, the possibilities are endless. Unless you want to add plugins. In which case, you’re out of luck on that free plan. It loses at least a half of a star from this alone. But, overall, I really can’t complain too much. I mean, here I am!

3. Blogspot – 2.5 Stars

Blogspot, also known as Blogger, is like the plain vanilla of web builders. It’s fine. It’s functional. It does the job. But does it spark joy? Not really.

The platform is overly simple, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing if you’re looking for a no-frills blogging experience. However, it can feel limiting compared to other platforms. Also, unless you’re willing to pay for a custom domain, you’re stuck with a URL that looks like it was generated by a cat walking across a keyboard.

If you’re just dipping your toes into blogging and don’t want to overthink it, Blogspot might be worth a try. Just don’t expect it to wow you. It’s basic. It’s fine.

4. Tumblr – 3.5 Stars

Ah, Tumblr. The home of fandoms, memes, and chaotic energy. If you’re planning to use Tumblr as a blog builder, it’s important to understand the platform’s culture. Unlike other web builders, Tumblr relies heavily on its algorithm and community engagement to drive traffic.

This means you can’t just sit back and hope people will find your blog—you’ve got to get involved. Reblog posts, follow similar accounts, and interact with your followers. It’s a bit of a commitment, but it can be fun if you’re already familiar with Tumblr’s vibe.

The downside? Tumblr isn’t exactly a professional blogging platform. It’s more suited for casual, niche interests than for polished, professional blogs. That said, if you’re blogging for fun and want to connect with a specific community, Tumblr might surprise you.

Final Thoughts

Every platform has its pros and cons, and the right one for you depends on your goals. If you’re serious about growing your blog and don’t mind a bit of a learning curve, WordPress is the way to go. For those who value aesthetics and simplicity, WIX might be worth a shot (just keep SEO in mind). Blogspot is fine for beginners, and Tumblr is a unique option for those who want to blog within an existing community (works great if you have a very specific niche or media-based lean).

At the end of the day, blogging is about sharing your voice and connecting with readers. Choose the platform that feels right for you and start creating. After all, the best blog is the one you actually create.

New Year’s Mantras for a New Season

~ Brooke F. ~ 2 Comments

Every year, I’ve set goals, made resolutions, and tried to will myself into change. I will add that sometimes it works! (And sometimes it doesn’t.) But this year I wanna do something a tad bit different. Instead of adding more to-do lists and lofty goals, I am instead going to (attempt to) ground myself with a few simple mantras: words I can carry with me into this next chapter of my life.

1. Learn, Learn, Learn

I started my career as an environmental scientist this year, and let me tell you, it’s a humbling experience to realize how much I don’t know. There’s training to complete, processes to understand, and a whole world of knowledge to absorb. But instead of letting the learning curve overwhelm me, I’m going to try and embrace it.

“Learn, learn, learn” isn’t just about my job too. It’s also about staying curious in everything. It’s about asking questions, making mistakes, and knowing that growth doesn’t happen overnight. Additionally, I want it to serve as a gentle reminder that I don’t have to be perfect. The learning process involves failure and it is impossible to skate around. While this concept hurts my perfectionistic, failure-fearing soul, it is something I simply need to continue to work towards getting past.

2. Do the Thing

This one’s for my poetry and my perfectionism. For too long, I’ve held back. (Camera cut to me editing endlessly, second-guessing myself, and letting fear keep me from sharing my writing). But this year, I’m done waiting for the perfect moment or the perfect version of anything.

“Do the thing” is about action. It’s hitting “publish” on that blog post. It’s sharing a poem without worrying how it will be received. It’s letting creativity flow without overthinking it. Fear might still be there, but this year, it doesn’t get to win.

3. Enjoy the Life Phase

If there’s one habit I know I have, it’s looking forward into the future. I do this in every possible way. I look to the next step, the next milestone, and the next season of life. I’ve always been someone with one eye on the future, dreaming of what’s to come. But in doing so, I often miss what’s right in front of me.

“Enjoy the life phase” is my reminder to slow down. To appreciate the small joys of where I am: my new job, my cozy home, my two cats (who are as chaotic as ever). I don’t want to rush this time just because it feels like a stepping stone to something bigger. I want to look back and remember how full and good this season was—even with its growing pains.

4. Show Up for Yourself

This is a mantra I’m adding to the list because I think we all need it. “Show up for yourself” means being your own cheerleader when things get hard. It’s about taking care of your mind, your body, and your heart. Showing up looks different every day. Some days it might mean eating a real lunch instead of chips from the pantry, going for a walk, or saying no to something you don’t have energy for. Whatever it is, it’s a promise to treat yourself like someone worth showing up for.

5. Let Life Be Messy

I’m someone who loves a plan. I like knowing what comes next, how it’ll happen, and where it’s all leading. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that life rarely fits neatly into plans.

“Let life be messy” is permission to let things unfold as they will. It’s accepting that some days will be chaotic, some dreams will take longer, and some journeys will twist and turn in unexpected ways (and, again, that’s okay!). The messy parts are often where the magic happens, right?

These mantras are my anchors for the year ahead. They’re reminders to take things one step at a time, to be brave, to be present, and to let life happen as it comes.

If you’re feeling inspired, I’d love to hear what mantras you’re carrying into the new year. What words or phrases will guide you through this next season? Share them in the comments!

xoxo,

Brooke F.

Life Update: Cats, Careers, and Adjustments

~ Brooke F. ~ 2 Comments

Hello, friends! It’s been a minute, so I thought it was time to check in with a little life update. Some exciting changes have happened recently. The kind of changes that come with cat hair on your clothes and a hard hat in your car.

So let’s get into it.

Meet Lori and Midna

First things first, I got cats. Yes, plural. Two tiny creatures who rule my life with a mix of adorable chaos and constant naps.

● Lori is my white kitten. His full name is Lorrian because every cat needs a slightly dramatic name to match their mysterious personality (he is anything but. He screams at me day and night for love and cuddles). Lori is playful, curious, and oh-so-needy. He desires cuddles at all hours of the day and makes that need known.

● Midna is the queen of the house. She’s my sleek, black cat, full of charm and just a touch of mischief. If you’ve ever played Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, you already know the inspiration behind her name. Midna has the vibe of a cat who knows all your secrets and still loves you anyway though she might judge you a little.

Having two cats has been such a comfort. They keep life entertaining and, somehow, their little purrs can turn a stressful day around in an instant.

I’m an Environmental Scientist!

In bigger news, I officially started my career as an environmental scientist. I’m still wrapping my head around the fact that I get to say that out loud. It’s been an adjustment, for sure. The early mornings, lots of learning, and a hefty dose of responsibility are just a few factors I’m trying to navigate with some level of grace and maturity (along with the fear of failure at ANYTHING.) but I’m so grateful to have landed a job right out of college. It’s one thing to dream about contributing to conservation and environmental work; it’s another to step into the field and do it. I am very blessed and I don’t want to ever NOT acknowledge that.

Some days are filled with fieldwork, which makes me feel like I’m back on the farm, in my element with fresh air and soil under my boots. Other days involve reports, lab safety videos, and presentations, which are equally important (but slightly less glamorous). The balance has been a learning curve, but I’m enjoying it so far though I still have TONS to learn.

Adjusting to This New Chapter

I won’t lie to you guys- life after college feels like I’m faking it till you make it. I think I’ve got it figured out one minute and then feel like I can’t make it in this big world the next. There are moments of confidence followed by flashes of doubt, and that’s okay. I think the most surprising lesson I’ve learned is that nobody really has it all together. We’re all just doing the best we can, whether we’re starting new jobs, adopting pets, or figuring out how to cook something other than spaghetti or tacos.

Between Lori attacking my shoelaces, Midna napping on my laptop, and work keeping me on my toes, life feels full. It’s not perfect, but it’s good. And I’m thankful for that.

That’s it for now! Tell me what’s new with you in the comments—I want to hear about your pets, job wins, or even just the small victories keeping you going. Until next time, I’ll be over here, trying to keep my white kitten from drinking toilet water and my black cat off my keyboard.

Take care!