Category: Lifestyle & Mindset

My Pinterest Wishlist Life

~ Brooke F. ~ 1 Comment

I’ve always loved the way a single image can hold a whole feeling. I scroll through my saved photos and see a glimpse of a life I want via this lovely little gallery app we call pinterest. I save it all, friends. Food. Crafts. Clothes. You name it, I’ve probably saved it.

The problem is, I save the pictures, but I don’t always live them. I romanticize ideas. I want to do things like writing letters, playing music, making beautiful food but too often, they sit in the back of my mind like unopened books that I’ve set aside because I got too greedy at the bookstore (This is a metaphor. Totally hasn’t happened haha…). Lately, I’ve been thinking: What if I actually did the things my saved photos make me long for? What if I took those tiny, aesthetic wishes and made them real?

Here’s what my Pinterest-inspired dream life looks like along with the breakdown below:

📜 Writing More Letters – I have a picture of old-fashioned letters, some sealed with wax, resting on a desk. Something about it feels so intentional, so full of care. I want to bring that back ya’ll. Deep down, I wish to write to friends just because, to send little notes instead of just texting, to put thoughts on paper and let them live outside my head only to be tucked away in a memory box after sitting on a desk for awhile.

🌿 More Picnics, More Sunshine – There’s a saved photo of a perfect picnic: a basket, fresh fruit, a gingham blanket spread over soft grass. I want to stop treating picnics as some rare, whimsical event and make them part of my normal life. Even if it’s just grabbing a sandwich and sitting outside, I want to spend more time in the sun, breathing in the fresh air, existing outside of office walls.

🎸 Actually Playing My Guitar – I found a picture of a girl playing guitar in a cozy corner of her room, lost in the music. It reminded me of how much I love playing. But it also made me recall how easily I fall in and out of the habit. I go through phases. I pick it up, play for a while, then let it gather dust. I want to be more consistent, to play for the joy of it, not just when the mood randomly strikes.

🍳 Becoming the Girl Who Cooks – A picture of girl mindfully reading a cookbook over a stove. That’s the kind of life I want. I want to fall in love with cooking. And maybe not just the eating part, but lean more into the creating too. I want to slow down, enjoy the process, and make meals that feel like care in edible form. I have somewhat achieved this within the last 3 months but there’s always room for practice. Plus, my toxic trait it leaning into my comfort recipes too much. I want to try new things too!

🗡 Owning a Sword (Just Because) – There’s no deep reason for this one. I just want a sword. A beautiful, slightly impractical, completely perfect sword. Let me live my medieval fantasy.

☕️ Living the Café Life – I save too many pictures of aesthetic café tables, lattes with perfect foam, and plates of delicate pastries. If I could, I would quit my job and dedicate my life to café hopping, sipping coffee, and eating croissants for a living. Unfortunately, capitalism exists. But maybe I can make it a small goal…just a little one to visit more coffee shops, to carve out time to just sit with a book and a cappuccino, even if it’s not my full-time occupation. Just a little me time. Or maybe I’ll bring a friend a long sometimes. ❤

🏡 The Cottagecore Fantasy – A little house with a garden, fresh herbs hanging in the kitchen, mornings that start with tea on the porch. I know I can’t drop everything and move to an English village tomorrow, but I can take small steps. Maybe growing herbs in my kitchen, learning a new skill that feels homely, creating the cottage feel wherever I am. Maybe that’s where that starts?

🧁 Making Cute Desserts for People I Love – I save so many pictures of perfectly frosted cupcakes and cute little pastries, but I never actually make them. But really, I’d love to learn to bake things that are as pretty as they are delicious, to surprise my friends with treats just because, to bring sweetness into life in the most literal way.

These are the pieces of the life I dream about. These are the things I don’t just want to admire in pictures, but actually live. Maybe it won’t all happen overnight, but little by little, I want to bring these Pinterest-worthy moments into my reality. I think our lives are made to be much more than galleries.

What’s on your wishlist, friends? ✨

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!

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?

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.

Unique Gift Ideas for the Writer in Your Life

~ Brooke F. ~ 6 Comments

Finding the perfect gift for the writer in your life can be as complex… annoying. I say this as a writer. It is very common that someone doesn’t know what to get me so I somehow end up with a tower of empty journals and an overflowing desk cup filled with new pens. I understand, it can be annoying to buy for us and sometimes one doesn’t know where to start when getting something thoughtful for the word-weaver in their family or friend group. Writers are often particular about their tools and tastes, but there’s a world of thoughtful, creative gifts beyond the basics that will make them feel truly understood. Here’s a guide to inspire your holiday shopping for the wordsmith you adore.

The Basics (But Make Them Fancy)

  1. Pens:
    Writers love pens, but gifting them a luxury pen—like a Lamy fountain pen or a weighted rollerball—can elevate their note-taking experience. Bonus points if you include a refill set in their favorite ink color!
  2. Journals:
    A writer can never have too many journals. Opt for a unique twist, such as leather-bound notebooks, journals with prompts, or eco-friendly options made from recycled materials.
  3. Books on Writing:
    Classics like On Writing by Stephen King or The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron are staples, but consider books on niche writing topics or even beautiful annotated versions of their favorite novels.

Step It Up: Gifts That Show You Truly Get Them

  1. Subscription Boxes for Writers:
    There are subscription services like Scribbler or The Writer’s Box that deliver curated goodies, writing prompts, and insider tips from published authors every month.
  2. Customized Writer’s Toolkit:
    Assemble a personalized kit with items like sticky notes, page flags, highlighters, and correction tape. Include a pouch or box engraved with their name or a quote about writing.
  3. Noise-Canceling Headphones or White Noise Machine:
    Whether they thrive in silence or need the soothing sound of rain, a tool to manage their audio environment can be invaluable for focused writing sessions.
  4. Specialty Coffee or Tea:
    Many writers are fueled by caffeine. Look for unique blends or quirky mugs (a typewriter-themed one, perhaps?). Add in a high-quality milk frother for the latte-loving wordsmith.
  5. Bookends or Shelf Accents:
    Help them organize their beloved writing books or display their work-in-progress stack with quirky bookends shaped like typewriters, quills, or punctuation marks.

Truly Unique Ideas for the Writer Who Has It All

  1. Custom-Made Book Cover Art:
    Writers with published or soon-to-be-published works will swoon over framed custom cover art of their book or even a faux cover design for their work-in-progress.
  2. A Writing Retreat Voucher:
    Gifting a weekend at a cozy cabin or a spot in a writing retreat program can give them the solitude and inspiration they need.
  3. Quirky Desk Accessories:
    Think vintage typewriter-inspired keyboards, literary-themed calendars, or even a tiny desktop hourglass to time writing sprints.
  4. Personalized Word Necklace or Bracelet:
    Have their favorite word, their own name, or the title of their book engraved on a piece of jewelry.
  5. A Masterclass Subscription:
    Access to workshops by renowned authors like Neil Gaiman or Margaret Atwood can be an incredible resource and a dream come true for many writers.
  6. Unique Inspiration Tools:
    Try something like the Rory’s Story Cubes or a deck of writing prompt cards to help spark creativity.
  7. Gift a Domain Name:
    If they don’t already have one, buying them a domain for their writing blog or portfolio is an incredibly thoughtful and practical gift.
  8. Customized Wax Seal Kit:
    For writers who enjoy a touch of old-world charm, a wax seal kit with their initials or a literary-themed emblem adds a personal touch to letters or notes.

Stocking Stuffers for the Literary-Minded

  1. Literary-themed socks, tote bags, or pins
  2. Magnetic poetry kits
  3. Tiny pocket dictionaries or thesauruses
  4. Bookplates with their name on them
  5. Candles inspired by books or writing (like “Library” or “Freshly Sharpened Pencils” scents)

Of course, these gifts and their usefulness will vary from person to person. However, I think this list is a great starting point or sparking inspiration for that special writer in your life. Whether they’re a poet, novelist, or someone just discovering their voice, there’s something here for every writer to inspire them and remind them that their craft is worth celebrating.

What’s the most creative gift you’ve ever given (or received) as a writer? Let me know in the comments!

Embracing the Cringe: Why Creating Is Worth the Risk

~ Brooke F. ~ 2 Comments

Why do I care what some strangers think???

I’ve been there, friends. Far too many times in fact. Staring at a piece of writing I’ve poured my heart into, hovering over the “Post” button, my stomach twisting. The thought runs rampant: What if people think this is weird? What if I’m awkward? What if this is…cringe?

Social media has given us a strange gift: the ability to share our creativity with a potentially massive audience. But alongside that gift comes the shadow of The Fear. The fear of being judged, of being misunderstood, or, quite possibly, being dismissed as “cringe.”

“Cringe” is potentially the ultimate insult in internet culture (at least as I see it as a creative). It implies that you’re trying too hard, caring too much, or daring to be earnest in a world that values ironic detachment. And when you create something as personal as a poem, a story, or a piece of art, putting it out there can feel like standing naked in a spotlight. There you are, lain bare. You want to be seen, but what if the crowd points and laughs?

I know this fear well because it’s held me back from sharing my own poetry. I love writing. It’s how I process life’s more difficult moments, capture fleeting emotions, and just overall express myself. But when it comes to posting a poem online, I freeze up. What if they think I’m pretentious? What if someone mocks me for using certain metaphors or for feeling something too deeply?

Here’s what I’ve realized, though: creating art isn’t about avoiding cringe. It is about embracing it.

Much of great art has, at some point, been considered cringe-worthy or at least wasn’t super appreciated in its time. Van Gogh’s bold, swirling strokes? Art of a talentless, crazy hack. The Beatles’ early love songs? Cheesy and dare I say, corny? Writing poetry and sharing it with the world takes guts because it’s vulnerable. It’s deeply personal. But that’s what makes it real.

If you spend your life avoiding the risk of being cringe, you also avoid the chance to connect with people. Because here’s the thing: for every person who might snicker at your poem or scroll past it, there’s another person out there who will feel seen. Your words and art could be exactly what they needed in that moment.

And, let’s be real, the alternative is even cringier. It’s cringy to hold back your creativity, to stifle your voice, to live in fear of what a bunch of strangers online might think. It’s cringy to not make something, to let fear make you boring and scared and silent.

So here’s my advice (to you and to me): Post the poem. Share the art. Write the awkward, heartfelt, overly-metaphorical thing and let it out into the world. Someone will cringe, sure. But someone else will care. And in the end, the world needs more people who dare to care.

The Over-acceptance of Introversion: When to Know When You’re Just Being a Bad Friend

~ Brooke F. ~ 2 Comments

This post is a little different from my usual topics. It’s not some big epiphany, just a thought that’s been bouncing around in my head for a while. As someone who enjoys overthinking (a core introvert trait, we all know it), I couldn’t shake this idea. So, here we are. Let’s talk about introversion, friendships, and whether some behaviors we attribute to being “introverted” are actually… kind of selfish.

This train of thought started when I stumbled across one of those relatable memes. Yaknow the type. Something that went along the lines of : “I don’t want to go, but I do want to be invited. Lol, introverts, am I right?” At first, I chuckled, because I could relate. But then I started reflecting on what it’s really saying. Is this just a funny nod to introverted tendencies, or does it normalize putting minimal effort into our friendships? Cue the over thinking due to a relatively harmless online post.

The more I thought about it, the more it reminded me of a situation from my late high school and early college years. Back then, my close friend and I loved organizing activities for our friend group. Bowling nights, game days, holiday parties—you name it, we planned it. We weren’t just trying to have fun; we genuinely enjoyed bringing everyone together.

But more often than not, it ended up being just the two of us. Our friends, though kind and fun in their own right, rarely showed up. The reasons varied. Some excuses were totally valid—homework, work shifts, family obligations. But over time, it became clear that many simply didn’t prioritize showing up. A few even admitted they “liked being invited” but never had any intention of coming.

At the time, it was frustrating. We’d put in all this effort, only to feel like the rest of the group didn’t care enough to reciprocate. It stung, but life moved on, and so did we. Now, years removed from those memories, I look back without resentment. Those friends weren’t bad people—they were just young, busy, and maybe a little unaware of how their actions came across.

Still, that experience planted a seed in my mind only to be watered by a random Instagram post on a random Tuesday. The memes and “relatable” posts about introverts avoiding plans or ghosting their friends in the name of self-care make me pause. Are we glorifying a healthy need for recharge time, or are we excusing bad friendship behaviors?

Here’s the thing: self-care is important. Recharge time is vital. Life gets busy and overwhelming, and sometimes, skipping plans is the right choice for your mental health. But if every plan becomes your recharge time, you’re not just protecting your peace—you’re neglecting your friendships.

Good friendships require effort. Showing up matters. And showing up only when the whim strikes you? That doesn’t make you a good friend. Sure, you have the right to set boundaries. But if you consistently flake, cancel, or avoid participating, maybe it’s time to reassess what you can realistically give to your friendships. I maybe it’s significantly less than it once was?

If that’s the case, the kinder thing to do is to be honest with yourself—and with your friends. Let them know if your capacity to maintain the friendship has changed. It’s far better than leading someone on to believe you want to stay close, only to repeatedly let them down when it comes time to show up.

Here’s the plot twist (that almost everyone knows): I am an introvert. A big one. I thrive on alone time, I love my cozy evenings at home, and I sometimes dread leaving my bubble. I’ve canceled more plans than I care to admit. But I’ve also been on the other side of this equation—the one doing the planning, hoping people will show up. And that’s given me a deep appreciation for the balance between respecting my own needs and respecting my relationships.

It’s not about guilt-tripping yourself into saying yes to every invite or sacrificing your mental health for others. It’s about being intentional. Being an introvert doesn’t give us a free pass to neglect the people who care about us. If anything, it challenges us to communicate better, show up when it counts, and be honest about what we can give.

So, the next time you’re tempted to laugh off a missed gathering with, “Lol, introverts, am I right?” take a moment to think about what that really means. Are you protecting your peace, or are you unintentionally letting your friends down? Because the truth is, being an introvert doesn’t mean we don’t care about our friendships. It just means we have to work a little harder to show it.

Hopefully you found this post useful in some way. I suppose in some ways, it could be considered a little mini-rant. More than anything, I think it’s a reflection and I hope it makes you reflect too, whether you’re an introvert like me or a big planner who relates to the feelings of disappointment when no one shows. Just know you’re not alone!

Take care, friends, and thanks for reading!

Writing Space Decor Tips

~ Brooke F. ~ 1 Comment

I wrote a post about this awhile back called “Ways to Brighten up Your Writing Space” and while I do still like that post and think it’s useful, I do want to create a more broad post on how you can go about creating a space that’s really your own. While a list of specific items you could use to decorate your spice is nice, I wanted to take a little step back and talk about other strategies you could consider employing to make your writing atmosphere that much more inspiring.

Creating a writer’s bedroom or a cozy little writing space involves designing an area that fosters creativity, focus, and comfort. =So here are a few things for you to think about as your decorating it.

1. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Cozy Reading Nook:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

   – Design a comfortable reading corner with a plush chair or cozy bean bag, a soft throw blanket, and ample cushions. Add a small bookshelf or floating shelves for easy access to your favorite books.

2. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Inspiring Wall Art:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

   – Decorate the walls with motivational quotes, literary-themed prints, or artwork that inspires creativity. Consider a large chalkboard or corkboard for jotting down ideas, outlines, or favorite quotes.

3. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊThink about your color Palettes: ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

   – Choose a color scheme that promotes focus. Soft, neutral tones like beige, light gray, or muted blues and greens can create a calming atmosphere while bright, exciting colors like red and yellow may excite your brain into work mode. Pick whatever works for you.

4. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Personalized Bookshelves:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

   – Arrange your bookshelves in an organized and visually pleasing manner. Mix books with personal items, decorative pieces, and plants to add warmth and personality.

5. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Comfortable Writing Desk:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

   – Invest in a comfortable and functional writing desk. Make sure it’s spacious enough for your writing essentials, and consider a desk with drawers for extra storage.

6. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Task Lighting:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

   – Install adequate task lighting on or near the writing desk to reduce eye strain. Adjustable desk lamps or wall-mounted lights can provide focused illumination for your writing space.

7. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Candles or Essential Oil Diffusers:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

   – Create a calming atmosphere with scented candles or essential oil diffusers. Scents like lavender, eucalyptus, or citrus can enhance concentration and relaxation.

8. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Comfortable Bedding:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

   – Opt for soft and comfortable bedding to ensure a good night’s sleep. A cozy bed with plush pillows and a warm throw can also serve as an additional reading or writing space.

9. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Bulletin Board or Pinboard:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

   – Install a bulletin board or pinboard near your desk to display notes, outlines, and visual inspirations. This can help you stay organized and keep important information easily accessible.

10. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Soft Area Rug:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

    – Place a soft area rug near your writing desk or reading nook to add warmth and texture to the room. This can make the space more inviting and comfortable.

11. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Nature-Inspired Elements:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

    – Integrate natural elements into your decor, such as potted plants, succulents, or small indoor trees. Nature-inspired decor can promote a sense of tranquility and creativity.

12. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Wall-Mounted Shelves:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

    – Install wall-mounted shelves above the desk or beside the bed to save space and showcase your favorite books, writing tools, and decorative items.

13. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Personalized Art and Memorabilia:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

    – Display personal artwork, awards, or items that hold sentimental value. Surrounding yourself with meaningful objects can enhance your connection to the space.

14. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Ambient Lighting:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

    – Use ambient lighting, such as string lights or a soft pendant light, to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Dimmable lights can be adjusted to suit different moods and tasks.

15. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Noise-Canceling Elements:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

    – Consider adding noise-canceling elements like heavy curtains or a comfortable chair with sound-absorbing upholstery to create a quieter and more focused environment.

Remember to personalize the space with items that inspire you and make you feel comfortable. A writing space should be a retreat that encourages creativity and provides a peaceful sanctuary for your writing endeavors.

Self-Care Tips for Writers

~ Brooke F. ~ 8 Comments

As a writer, I can often find myself collecting bad habits like Pokémon. A cruddy sleep schedule (gotta finish that chapter), living on caffeine, imposter syndrome, the infliction of self guilt for not writing enough, and the list goes on and on. If you face similar unfortunate circumstances, then perhaps you can use this post as a checkpoint in your writing journey to take inventory. Have you been taking care of yourself lately?

★Avoid screens for a little while.

Chances are, you’ve been staring at one for awhile is you work using a word processor. Maybe consider having a “screen cleanse” day where you try to not look at a screen at all (unless necessary of course). If a whole day feels too long, try setting a timer from 1-3 hours and just reset your eyes by not using a screen within this time.

★Create a morning routine.

It’s easy to wake up ten minutes late, look at your phone first thing, or skimp on breakfast. But doing these habits on the regular can often make it even harder for you to start your day, especially if you have a lot of writing to get done. If your brain doesn’t feel refreshed and ready to get to work, it can often lead to writer’s block. Take a minute to write out your current morning routine. Make adjustments as needed.

★Fix yourself some coffee, tea, hot chocolate or maybe just a simple glass of water.

We all have that comfort drink. Why not fix yourself one? And if you haven’t drunk any good ol’ H2O in the last couple hours, then for the love of your brain and body, please go get yourself a glass.

★Don’t neglect your physical health- look up a workout online and start moving around.

This is something I probably have brought up before though I think it’s super important. Especially since it’s one that I struggle with personally. Especially if I feel uninspired and blobby. But a quick walk or workout has a way of resetting my brain and I know for a fact that it usually works. It’s often a matter of doing it.

★Journal.

Journaling is a wonderful way to reflect and track your current habits, writing related or otherwise. Sometimes journaling can simply be a way for you to dump out all the thoughts that are preventing or distracting you from whatever project you are currently working on. Either way, I definitely recommend pulling out a journal every now and then and getting to writing.

★Read. For fun.

Try to let yourself slip into the reader’s mindset. Try to not analyze everything you’re reading. Just read and let yourself bask in the words for a while.

★Pretty up your writing space.

My favorite way to do this is by adding some lighting or greenery. Or maybe both! Plants do a lot for brightening and livening up a space and fairy light…well, they just make me happy. They look so magical, what can I say! Don’t judge me, sometimes I just gotta satisfy my inner toddler. All she really wants are sparkles and glitters and I’m not about to tell her she’s wrong.

★Go to bed early.

I haven’t met a writer yet who wasn’t a night owl, so I might be biased. But let’s be honest here- couldn’t we all improve our sleeping habit? Maybe just a little? If not, then you have your life far more together than I do and this tip isn’t for you.

★Congratulate yourself on how far you’ve come already.

Your journey as a writer has probably been wrought with imposter syndrome or fear of not measuring up. Or perhaps you find yourself comparing your drafts to the finished drafts of other writers and fear that you have fooled everyone into thinking you’re a writer but are you really?

We’ve all been there. So maybe take a second to reflect on how far you’ve come as a writer. Even thought you might have written some really cringy stories in high school or middle school, by golly, you still did it. And it’s become a part of your journey to grow as a writer. And that’s something worth being proud of!

Self-Care Tips for Artists

~ Brooke F. ~ 12 Comments

As artists, we are always looking for ways to hone our creative skills and continue broadening our horizons. Our goal: to make good art! The problem is that this can often lead to burnout as self-care is something that often gets pushed aside for the sake of work and growth! Not that growth or work is bad, but we all know that too much of a good thing can be bad. And we all need breaks.

So here is a short list I composed of various ways you can care for your body and mind, geared specifically towards art making creatives.

Every second that makes you feel better is worth spending.

-@E.m.x.thoughts

★ Draw something you’ve been wanting to do for awhile. Something mindless or comforting (Probably not hands or the other eye).

★ Or opt to put the sketchbook away entirely.

★ Spend some time on Pinterest or a similar site. These sites can often function to scratch the creative itch while still giving you a break from your work.

★Connect with family and friends. Have you been neglecting anyone in favor of your creative pursuits?

★Visit an art museum or exhibition. Enjoy the art others have put out there.

★Try a different art medium. Give yourself permission to suck.

★Watch a documentary. It can be art related or not. If you do want an art related one however, I greatly recommend this one here, free on youtube:

★ Grab a coffee with a fellow artist or just a friend! Be a person. Talk about all sorts of things, not just your work.

★This is pretty universal but take a walk outside. Breath some fresh air and enjoy nature for a little while.

★Watch a movie that you haven’t seen before. Have you seen “Loving Vincent”? It’s $3 to rent on YouTube. Cannot recommend it enough. I always walk away from it inspired by the artistic skill it took to produce.

★Google some hot chocolate or coffee recipes to try. Experiment.

★I cannot recommend this one enough: Pet a dog. Or a Cat. I’ll allow either.

★Just straight up take a nap.

★Organize your desk space.

★Sort out your art supplies and put them away for a little while, all nice and neat.

I hope you have found these few tips helpful! With so much noise and pressure to succeed, many creative people are neglecting their own needs. How can you be your best self if you’re not taking care of yourself? Remember, Selfcare is essential to the successful life of any kind of artist.