After years of living with a red entryway wall, I finally decided it was time for a change. I started off with the intention of a gallery wall but then realized that the position of my mirror at eye level didn't give me much space for one. I ended up painting my wall a deep chocolate, I was scared to go that dark but the color completely transformed the space, it feels bold and sophisticated, and it gives the entryway real presence when you walk in. I ended up hanging my artwork on all the surrounding walls. I'm going to share the changes I made, from paint choices and tips on how to build your gallery wall. I will also be sharing everything I learned about choosing artwork, mixing frames, and planning a layout that actually works.
7 Best Eye Creams
The skin around our eyes is delicate and often the first to show signs of aging, like crow’s feet and dark circles. That’s why choosing the right eye cream is so important. In this post, I’m highlighting my favorite products that target these concerns with powerful ingredients like peptides, retinoids, and growth factors. Whether you’re looking to smooth fine lines, boost firmness, or brighten under-eye darkness, these formulas deliver results. From the science-backed Intoxicated Snake Eyes Eye Serum to the NIOD Fractionated Eye-Contour Concentrate, DRMTLGY HPR Eye Cream, and Neocutis Lumière Firm Riche, each one brings something unique to your skincare routine. I rarely buy skincare from Sephora anymore as I don't want to go mainstream skincare, I rather buy skincare based on the science. Let’s dive in and see what makes them stand out.
My Top 10 Reads of 2025
I’m excited to share my top reads of 2025. I planned to do a list of ten, but the photo template had room for one more, so here we are with eleven favorites. I finished 25 books this year. I usually reach for thrillers and mysteries, memoirs on audio while flipping through the physical book for photos, and historical fiction. I aim for about a book a week, although some weeks slipped by without any reading at all.
This year I tried something new. I listen to the free audiobook preview while reading those first pages. It makes it easier to get into the story and gives me a comfortable pace. Then I check the page count, divide by seven and tell myself that is all I need to read each day. I borrow every book from the library, so I have three weeks to finish and return each one.
If you need inspiration to fall back in love with reading, there is a great New York Times article called How to Rekindle Your Love of Reading. Time Magazine ranked the Top 10 Best Books of 2025.
The Case Against White Doors (and for a Little Color)
For years, white doors have been the default. They’re safe, simple, and, well... kind of boring. White can work, of course, it’s classic, but it’s not your only option. In fact, painting your interior doors a color can completely change the look and feel of your home.
This trend of ditching plain white doors is catching on for good reason. A painted door adds personality and style without much effort or cost. It’s a chance to be creative without committing to a full room color change. These are not just door colors; they’re statements of style and personality.
Think about it, why not let your doors add something to the room?
December Goals: Finishing the Year Strong
Even though the year is almost over, December can be one of the best times to set goals. I want this month to feel intentional. It’s a natural moment to reflect, reset, and make small changes before the new year begins. Instead of holding everything until January, starting with tiny goals now creates a bit of momentum and helps the new year feel less chaotic. December can feel like it's impossible to do anything positive for your goals with all the cookies and eggnog, but you don't need a perfect month, it's not all or nothing.
The cold weather in winter can make me feel a little slower, so I’ve been thinking about ways to stay focused while also enjoying the season. I decorated for Christmas early so I wouldn't dread the cold season; instead I made the season feel more inviting. With all of that in mind, I’ve broken my December goals into micro habits across four areas: fitness, career, mental health, and discipline. Studies show that people who write down their goals are more likely to reach them, so I’m putting mine on paper and letting the season support the pace I want.





