Disney’s Hollywood Studios has transformed into a full-on Star Wars playground since opening in 1989, and stepping inside feels like crossing into another galaxy. Between the character encounters, cinematic rides, themed snacks and drinks, and the level of detail packed into every corner, it is easy to lose track of time just taking it all in. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the land, from must-do rides and standout food spots to the characters and small moments that make it feel like you are living your own Star Wars story.

If you are planning a Disney trip, a little strategy goes a long way. Mapping out your day can be the difference between feeling rushed and actually enjoying the experience. I put together a simple notes list on my phone with a rough order of attractions and food stops, and it made the whole day smoother and way more fun. And honestly, take a cue from the Disney adults. They show up midweek in Mickey ears, sipping a Slurpee, fully committed to having a good time. No stress, no doom scrolling, just pure enjoyment. You will spot them grabbing Dole Whips, joking around with the Toy Story Green Army Men, and treating the day like it is exactly what it should be: fun. It is worth leaning into that energy.

I’ve bought seven pillows in the last couple of years, and finding the right one is harder than it seems. As a stomach sleeper, I need a low loft, around 3-4 inches, to keep my head, neck, and shoulders aligned. Anything higher leaves me waking up stiff and uncomfortable.

Switching to a cooling pillow also made a big difference. Cooling pillows draw heat away from your head, helping your body cool down and fall asleep faster. The cooling sensation feels refreshing, reduces tossing and turning, and keeps you comfortable all night. I also avoid buying from Amazon since returns can mean getting a used pillow. Brands usually have clearer return policies, which matters when you’re putting your face on it every night.

If you’re tired of guessing, this guide covers everything I’ve learned from trying all seven pillows.

I spent 24 hours and one night in Savannah, GA, and every corner felt like stepping into a storybook as fan palms swayed, giant leopard plants in every square, ornate gas lamps glowed over wrought-iron gates, and willow trees shaded peaceful parks. You can walk the whole city in a day and see a lot so that's what I did since I was only there for one night. The "grid system" plan is why it is so walkable. One of the rare, small American cities that have a European feel.

Last year I took a trip through some of the most incredible landscapes in Canada, and it honestly felt unreal. I took in the bright turquoise waters of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, then rode the Banff Gondola up Sulphur Mountain where you can see six mountain ranges stretching out in every direction. I even floated down the Bow River, which was such a peaceful way to experience it all.

Driving the Icefields Parkway was easily one of the highlights. I stopped at Peyto Lake, hopped on the Ice Explorer to get right up to the Athabasca Glacier, and yes, I drank glacier water straight from the source. I spent time in the cozy town of Canmore too, and crossed into Montana, soaking up the wide open wilderness on the way toward Glacier National Park. The whole trip blended iconic stops with unexpected highlights, and somehow each view was better than the last.

This post is pretty text-heavy, so I’ve spaced out the sentences to make it easier on the eyes and added a few stock photos to break it up. It’s basically a collection of notes from my phone, just organized by topic. I wrote this for me so I can refer back to it. Last year I did a full closet declutter and this year I'm embarking on a full house declutter. My home is small so the more empty space I have, the bigger it will feel. As a gift to myself for doing this, I will reward my home with an indoor faux tree plant.

I picked up Atomic Habits thinking it would be just another self-help book. What I found was something far more useful and practical. It is absolutely life-changing. I’ve read a lot of self-help books, and this is probably the most substantial and impactful one, with the most tangible takeaways you can actually apply to your life. If you’re going to read one book, it should be this one.

This book is completely centered around the idea of getting 1% better every single day. It isn’t about big, dramatic changes. It’s about small actions that slowly, quietly change the way you live.

One of the first ideas that stood out to me was this: action relieves anxiety. When you move, even a little, fear shrinks. Waiting makes everything heavier. Starting makes it lighter. When you procrastinate on something important, you’re delaying a better future. You’re postponing results that could make you proud.

Clear also explains that the secret to winning isn’t avoiding failure. It’s learning how to recover. Resilience is the real advantage. When you know how to bounce back, setbacks stop feeling final.

Orlando is the theme park capital of the world, and a Disney trip really does go better with a little planning. A few smart choices can mean less stress, shorter waits, and more time actually enjoying your vacation. Good Morning America recently shared a short segment on what’s new for 2026, plus a few easy ways to save money. One thing I always stand by is having a loose plan for each day. I like to keep a simple bulleted list in my notes app with the rides or foods you want to try the most. You don’t need to plan every minute, but knowing your priorities makes everything else feel easier.

If you’re taking a solo trip to Disney World, lean into how freeing that can be. No waiting on anyone else, no compromises, no negotiating plans. Disney is so much more than castles and characters, especially as an adult, so think of this post as a practical, food focused (vegetarian options galore), adult friendly guide to doing the parks your way.

I love Disney for the nostalgia, the cleanliness, the creative details, and yes, the food. I also love how safe and welcoming it feels. The second I walk through the gates, the outside world fades away. Bright colors, upbeat energy, and thoughtful storytelling take over. Loving Disney at any age doesn’t need an explanation. If you’re planning a trip, pace yourself, make a plan, and let the parks do what they do best.

Word for the year: Rejuvenate

All of my goals run through one question: does this help me feel more rested, more creative, more grounded, more myself? I asked myself, based on my current life, energy, and values, what should I stop focusing on this year, what should I protect, and what deserves my consistent attention?

Rejuvenate is about less input, but better input. Fewer distractions, higher quality habits. Refinement over addition. Not less living. Less junk. Not deprivation. More discernment. Trying to find joy outside of the algorithm. 

We tend to put far too much pressure on January to fix everything at once. New routines, more discipline, better habits, a whole new life, all expected to click the moment the calendar turns. When it feels slower or messier than that, it’s easy to assume we’re already behind.

Starting goals or setting new intentions on January 1 has never really made sense to me. It’s still a time for rest and recovery. I prefer to sit with things throughout the month, giving myself space to reflect before deciding how I want to shape the year. For me, January is a reset month, a chance to get organized and clear out mental and financial noise before building more discipline going forward.

If I had to narrow my entire fragrance collection down to just ten bottles, these would be the ones I’d keep. The ones I reach for without thinking. The ones that feel like me.

Fragrance isn’t something I save for special occasions. It’s part of my everyday routine. I wear it to the grocery store, to run errands, to sit at home. The only places I skip it are tight spaces like airplanes or the dentist. Otherwise, it’s on.

I don’t believe in having just one signature scent. I like variety. Different moods. Different seasons. Scent is tied so closely to memory and emotion that wearing the same thing all year would feel limiting. I gravitate toward niche fragrances because they feel more personal and distinctive, which is why only two of these are widely available.

If these were the only ten I could keep for life, I’d be perfectly happy.

Every year I like to make a list to guide how I approach the next 12 months. In the past, I’ve done things like Lucky Girl Syndrome Affirmations, My Ins and Outs for 2025, 25 Ways to Glow Up in 2025, the 30 Wears Challenge, and 7 Travel Resolutions.  This year I’m focusing on My Consumption Rules for 2026. The theme is simple: buy less and buy better. I am creating a traditional New Years Goal list but I always take some time at the beginning of the year to create it. 

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.

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.

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.

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?

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.

I’ve written a couple of posts in the past about my hunt for the perfect light pink nail polish, but truthfully, none of the shades ever really felt right. They were either too bright, too pale, too sheer, or just didn’t compliment my skin tone the way I hoped. After a lot of trial and error, I finally had a lightbulb moment: I needed to consider my Color Season.

Once I started looking through that lens, everything clicked. The perfect pink for me isn’t just any light pink, it lives in that subtle, softly sophisticated space of rosy beige nudes and cool-toned mauves. Think a beige-pink cream, a soft blush with light brown undertones, a creamy neutral pink in a milky base. Not too warm, not too gray, just the perfect balance of muted pink and beige, with that cool, flattering softness that makes it feel effortless and elevated.