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  • 41: The Year of Beautiful Becoming

    41: The Year of Beautiful Becoming

    Last week, I celebrated my 41st birthday. And what a celebration it was, not just of another year lived, but of another year earned. Birthdays have this magical ability to stop time for just a moment, creating a sacred pause where we can hold our entire story in our hands: the chapters already written and the blank pages still waiting for our pen. But this birthday? This one feels electric with possibility.

    41 isn’t just another candle on the cake, it’s practically humming with meaning. In the beautiful art of numerology, 41 breaks down to 5 (4 + 1), and suddenly the universe seems to be whispering secrets about my year ahead. Five is the number of freedom, adventure, and delicious unpredictability…the kind of energy that makes you want to book a spontaneous trip or finally take that painting class you’ve been dreaming about.

    But here’s where it gets fascinating: that 4 represents the solid foundation I’ve spent decades building, the deep roots, the hard-won wisdom, the unshakeable core of who I am. The 1? Pure, crackling potential. Independence. The audacity to begin again, no matter how many times we’ve already reinvented ourselves.

    Together, these numbers are like a cosmic permission slip: Honor your foundation, but don’t let it become a cage. You have wings and use them.

    Our 40s are having a moment, and rightfully so. We’re the generation that’s rewriting the script on what it means to be “middle-aged” (a term that feels increasingly meaningless). This isn’t middle anything, this is our second bloom, and it’s spectacular.

    Think about it: we’ve survived our 20s (barely), navigated our 30s with varying degrees of grace, and emerged in our 40s with something invaluable…perspective. We’ve loved and lost, succeeded spectacularly and failed beautifully. We’ve learned that resilience isn’t about never falling down; it’s about developing an increasingly graceful way of getting back up.

    The storms we’ve weathered haven’t just made us stronger, they’ve made us more interesting. Every laugh line tells a story. Every gray hair is a badge of wisdom. Every scar is proof that we’re warriors who chose to keep fighting for joy, even when life got messy.

    But here’s what I find most thrilling about our 40s: we’re done apologizing for taking up space. We’re done shrinking ourselves to fit into boxes other people built. We know our worth, and we’re not negotiating on it anymore.

    At 41, I’m choosing to see this year as my year of renewal, but not in the gentle, gradual way I might have approached change in my younger years. This is renewal with intention, with fire, with the kind of clarity that comes from finally understanding that our time and energy are finite resources that deserve to be invested wisely.

    I’m shaking off what no longer serves me with the enthusiasm of a dog after a bath. Those relationships that drain more than they give? Thank you for the lessons, but we’re done here. The career obligations that feel like wearing shoes two sizes too small? Time to find a better fit. The habits that made sense five years ago but now feel like carrying around extra weight? Consider them jettisoned.

    This isn’t about becoming someone new, it’s about becoming more authentically me. It’s about finally having the courage to live in alignment with my values instead of my fears.

    The beautiful paradox of turning 41 is that I simultaneously know so much more than I used to, and am completely comfortable admitting how much I still don’t know. It’s liberating in a way my 25-year-old self could never have imagined.

    I know what makes me come alive: deep conversations that stretch past midnight, books that challenge my worldview, adventures that pushes me out of my comfort zone, people who laugh at my terrible jokes and call me on my nonsense in equal measure.

    I know what my non-negotiables are: kindness, authenticity, growth, and the kind of love that makes you want to be the best version of yourself.

    I know that saying “no” to good things leaves room for great things.

    But I also know that life is beautifully, terrifyingly unpredictable. That the best plot twists are often the ones we never see coming. That sometimes the doors we thought we wanted opened lead to rooms we don’t want to enter, while the paths we were afraid to take lead to the most extraordinary destinations.

    I don’t have all the answers and maybe that’s not just okay, maybe it’s exactly where I’m supposed to be. Instead of answers, I have something better…readiness.

    Readiness to grow, even when growth feels uncomfortable. Readiness to love deeper, even when love feels risky. Readiness to laugh louder, even when the world feels heavy. Readiness to chase the things that set my soul on fire, even when I can’t see the finish line.

    Readiness, I’m learning, is a superpower. It’s the difference between being a passenger in your own life and being the one holding the steering wheel, radio cranked up, windows down, singing along to your favorite song.

    Here’s to 41! A year that promises to be beautifully contradictory:

    To stability and beginnings, having roots deep enough to weather any storm, and wings strong enough to soar toward new horizons.

    To reflection and readiness, honoring the wisdom of our past while keeping our hearts wide open to the magic of what’s next.

    To roots and wings, staying grounded in our values while giving ourselves permission to fly.

    As I blew out the “1” candle on my coffee cake (which thank you Lori for being so sweet to make gluten free and homemade), I made a wish. Not for a specific outcomes, but for the courage to remain open. Open to possibility, to growth, to love, to adventure, to becoming whoever I’m meant to become next.

    Because here’s what 41 years of living has taught me: the best stories are rarely the ones we plan. They’re the ones that unfold when we’re brave enough to say yes to the unexpected, wise enough to trust our instincts, and bold enough to believe that our most extraordinary chapters might still be unwritten.

    The best is still unfolding and I can’t wait to see what happens next.

    Here’s to 41: to the courage to bloom again, the wisdom to trust the process, and the audacity to believe that our most beautiful becoming is still ahead of us.

  • How I Involve My Kids in Creative Projects Without Losing My Mind

    How I Involve My Kids in Creative Projects Without Losing My Mind

    Let me start by saying this: creativity and parenthood are both beautiful… and bonkers. And trying to do both at the same time? That’s an adventure all its own.

    I’ve always believed in including my kids in what I create, not just because it’s convenient (because let’s be honest, sometimes it’s anything but), but because I want them to see that their ideas, their voices, their wild imaginations matter. And truthfully? They inspire more of my work than they’ll ever realize.

    That said…it’s not always Pinterest-perfect. Not even close.

    Sometimes inviting them into a project means we end up with glitter on the ceiling, flour in our hair, paint on the dog, or a baking “experiment” that turns into a science lesson on what not to do. Sometimes it means stopping mid-project to break up a fight over who gets to crack the next egg or who spilled the vinegar in the volcano. And sometimes it means sitting in the middle of the mess, taking a deep breath, and reminding myself why I wanted to include them in the first place.

    But here’s what I’ve learned (so far):

    What’s Worked:

    • Arts & crafts with purpose. Whether we’re making decorations for the seasons, discussing scenes from one of my stories, or just going wild with stickers and washi tape, it gives them a chance to express themselves and be part of what I’m building.
    • Letting them help with recipes and baking. They’ve tested (and taste-tested) everything from our favorite cookies to those now-infamous musk ox cookies from Aurora. Giving them jobs like stirring, measuring, or naming the recipe makes them feel like real contributors.
    • Science experiments = fun + learning. From simple baking soda reactions to making “magic potions” and weather jars, science has become a creative playground. They’re learning and I’m inspired, usually at the same time.
    • Including their magic and storytelling. One of my favorite parts of involving my kids is how naturally they bring magic into the mix. They believe in Christmas magic, beach adventures with talking animals, and that good energy lives all around us. I love leaning into that with them. Their sense of wonder helps shape the stories I write, and it keeps my own imagination alive and well.

    What Hasn’t Worked:

    • Trying to rush. Creativity with kids is slow. If I’m on a deadline or trying to get something polished, I’ve learned to carve out solo time. Trying to multitask usually ends in frustration for everyone.
    • Expecting mini adults. They’re kids. They aren’t here to keep things neat or follow a timeline — and honestly, that’s part of the magic.
    • Forcing it. If they’re not interested, I let it go. Not every moment has to be a project, and that’s okay too.

    The truth is blending parenthood and creativity takes patience, deep breaths, and a sense of humor. Deep breaths are extremely important and I have to remind myself sometimes. My kids might throw off my timeline or derail my outline, but they also make my work better. They help me see things through a brighter, sillier, more magical lens. They remind me to play, to laugh, to believe in things that sparkle, and to keep things real.

    So no, I don’t always get things done on time. And yes, sometimes I have had to re-do an entire recipe after someone “helped.” But I wouldn’t trade the chaos for anything.

    Here’s to the moms and dads trying to create with their kids by their side, one messy, magical, memory-making project at a time.

  • From the Beach to the Bookshelf: Behind the Scenes of Aurora’s Beach Adventure

    From the Beach to the Bookshelf: Behind the Scenes of Aurora’s Beach Adventure

    When I first created Aurora, our lovable musk ox with a heart full of curiosity, I had no idea how much joy she would bring to our family, and to readers who fell in love with her snowy North Pole adventure. But with Aurora’s Beach Adventure, I wanted to do something a little unexpected… I wanted to take Christmas out of the snow and into the sun.

    And what better way to do that than a Christmas in July story?

    This book was born on a summer afternoon when my kids and I were daydreaming about what Santa might do off-season. “Does he ever take a vacation?” one of them asked. And suddenly we were off, laughing about Santa in sunglasses, Mrs. Claus with flip-flops, reindeer on the beach, and elves trying to build sandcastles that don’t melt.

    My kids definitely helped in the brainstorming. From suggesting silly character names to discussing funny scenes, their creativity helped shape the story. The crabs? 100% their idea. The seagull who steals Santa’s sandwich? Also them. (They’re very passionate about snack security.)

    Once the story came together, the next step was visuals. Huge thanks to Sometimes We Get You Media (@sometimeswegetyou), whose incredible image generation capabilities helped me bring Aurora’s beachy world to life in a way that was vibrant, colorful, and totally magical.

    Editing artwork became a fun challenge, adding just the right sparkle to the waves, making sure Aurora’s fur shimmered in the sun, and making every character expression full of personality. Every spread is packed with visual giggles and sweet surprises.

    At its core, Aurora’s Beach Adventure is about trying something new—even if it feels a little scary or unfamiliar at first. Aurora isn’t sure about the beach. The sand feels weird. She can’t swim. But with the help of new friends (like Sunny the Sea Turtle and Finn the Dolphin), she finds the courage to enjoy something completely different from what she knows.

    And of course, the story is full of humor, from a seagull with a sandwich obsession to sunscreen mishaps, and elves who decide that burying Santa in the sand is the perfect beach activity. It’s silly, joyful, and heartwarming, just like summer should be.

    This is the second book in what I hope will be a growing series of Aurora adventures. Each story highlights not just fun and fantasy, but important values: teamwork, kindness, courage, and joy. A message that the cheer and joy from Christmas can be spread all year round. I’m passionate about writing books that kids want to read and that parents feel good reading with them.

    Whether it’s rescuing Christmas or navigating waves and wobbly sand, Aurora continues to show that adventure can happen anywhere, as long as your heart is open to it.

    Aurora’s Beach Adventure is now live on Amazon, just in time for summer reading or a little off-season Christmas cheer.

    👉 Click here to get your copy!

    Thank you for being part of this journey with me and stay tuned! Aurora has more adventures coming, and you never know where she’ll end up next.

  • Letting Go of the Guilt When Routines Fall Apart

    Letting Go of the Guilt When Routines Fall Apart

    It’s the beginning of August, and if you’re anything like me, you’re living in this strange space between summer freedom and back-to-school planning. Part of me is craving the return of routine, sharpened pencils, labeled folders, a clean fridge, and mornings with coffee that doesn’t get cold. But the other part? The mom part? She’s soaking up every bit of these last golden weeks, even if they’re messy and chaotic.

    This summer has been… a lot.

    My husband has been incredible, giving me the space to stay present at work while he took on so much of the parenting load. But even with that support, summer as a family can be a wild ride. Between multiple camping trips, a whirlwind of extracurriculars, snack demands every 10 minutes, and what feels like a never-ending stream of questions (“Can we go swimming?” “Why is the sky blue?” “Can we make slime again?”), it’s no wonder routines have been tossed out the window.

    And you know what? That’s okay.

    I used to carry this weighty guilt, like if the house wasn’t in order, if the laundry piled up, if we didn’t read 30 minutes every day, I had somehow failed the “good mom” checklist. But I’ve learned something important through so many summers with my kids:

    Presence beats perfection every time.

    The clothes, the cleaning, the organizing? They’ll get done. They always do. But the slow mornings snuggled on the couch, the spontaneous pool days, the late-night giggles under the stars on our camping trips, those don’t wait. Those are fleeting. And they are worth the pause.

    So if your routines have completely fallen apart, if the bedtime charts are buried under coloring books and the fridge is mostly string cheese and juice boxes…give yourself some grace. You are not behind. You are in it. Living it. Loving them through the beautiful mess of summer.

    Back-to-school is coming. I’m getting ready mentally and practically. But for now, I’m giving myself permission to breathe a little deeper, hug a little longer, and push the to-do list aside for a few more days of this sweet, imperfect magic.

    You’re doing amazing, mama. Hang in there.

    And to all the dads pulling the parenting load this summer, especially mine, kudos to you. We see you, and we’re grateful.

  • Horton Hears a Who Day: Listening for the Whos Among Us

    Horton Hears a Who Day: Listening for the Whos Among Us

    Today is one of our favorite days of the year—Horton Hears a Who Day! My kids and I celebrate it every May 15th with excitement, imagination, and a whole lot of heart. Dr. Seuss’s timeless tale, Horton Hears a Who, is more than just a whimsical story—it’s a powerful reminder of compassion, courage, and the value of every voice, no matter how small.

    In the story, Horton the Elephant hears a faint cry for help coming from a tiny speck of dust. On that speck lives the entire city of Whoville, a miniature world full of people no one else can see or hear. Despite the ridicule he faces, Horton stands firm in protecting the Whos because, as he famously declares, “A person’s a person, no matter how small.”

    That line has stuck with me since childhood, and it’s one I pass on to my children regularly. It teaches empathy, kindness, and the importance of listening—really listening—to those around us, especially those whose voices might be softer, quieter, or different from our own.

    Each year, we mark the day by reading the book aloud, laughing at the colorful characters, and reflecting on the deeper message. Then, we head outside and search for a flower or a dandelion—something delicate, light, and full of magic. We hold it up gently, close our eyes, and listen.

    Listen for the Whos.

    Maybe, just maybe, you’ll hear them today too.

    This simple tradition reminds us to slow down and open our hearts. The world is full of tiny voices—people, creatures, ideas—that are easy to overlook. Horton teaches us to stay grounded in what’s right, even when no one else believes. He reminds us that we all have the power to protect, to speak up, and to care.

    So today, take a moment. Pick a flower. Hold it close. Listen carefully.

    Because a person’s a person, no matter how small.

    Happy Horton Hears a Who Day from our family to yours!

  • Maycember Madness: How to Survive the Most Chaotic Month of the Year

    Maycember Madness: How to Survive the Most Chaotic Month of the Year

    April was rough like the rain before the storm…but now we have hit May. They call it Maycember for a reason. Somehow, May has become the new December—just without the twinkling lights and cozy cocoa breaks. I think an elf or two would bring some cheer and ease the stress or maybe not but I do love Christmas. (As if you didn’t know if you’ve been following me for a while.) Instead May is jam-packed with school projects, sports tournaments, end-of-year parties, themed dress-up days, work deadlines, and a never-ending to-do list. Like squeezing everything you could possibly accomplish all in one month. Hooray….ughh! If you’re feeling like you’re sprinting a marathon in flip-flops, you’re not alone.

    Here’s your gentle reminder: It’s okay if you can’t do it all.

    Let me say that again for the perfectionist in the back like myself—it’s okay if some things fall through the cracks. You do not need to attend every event, bake everything from scratch, or hit every single deadline without blinking. The world will keep spinning, and your worth is not measured by how much you can juggle.

    Tips to Make It Through Maycember:

    Make To-Do Lists

    But Be Realistic Brain-dump all the things, then go back and ask yourself: What truly needs to get done? Star the essentials, delegate what you can, and let go of the rest.

    Breathe (No, Really)

    Right now take a deep breath in through your nose, hold for 3 seconds and exhale through your mouth. That to-do list won’t get done any faster if you’re running on fumes. Take a moment. Close your eyes. Inhale deeply. Exhale slowly. Your nervous system will thank you.

    Carve Out One Happy Moment a Day

    Even five minutes counts. Run, read, paint, journal, walk, dance in your kitchen, sip your favorite tea in silence. Do one thing just for you. That moment of joy is your power source. Spontaneous kitchen dance parties with my kids are so much fun.

    Talk About It, Phone a friend

    Vent. Laugh about the chaos. Or send 20 reels to someone in a row….whatever helps you share the stress and laughter. You’re not the only one juggling 20 things and forgetting what day it is.

    Celebrate What You Do Accomplish

    Whether it’s packing all the themed-day outfits or just showing up (in the wrong color shirt, but still showing up), celebrate it. You’re doing your best, and that is more than enough.

    Remember, Maycember isn’t forever. Summer is coming. Rest is coming. Peace is coming. You will get through this.

    You’ve got this. Be proud of yourself. You’re doing great!

    Sending love, hugs, and sunshine your way!

  • Our New Chapter with a Sweet, Fluffy Girl

    Our New Chapter with a Sweet, Fluffy Girl

    This past week, we opened our hearts and home to a new family member—Daisy, a 13-month-old Old English Sheepdog with the gentlest soul and the sweetest eyes. She came to us through the Old English Sheepdog Rescue Association of Washington (OESRAW), and in just a short time, she’s already begun to leave her pawprints on our lives.

    Transitioning to a new environment is no small feat, especially for a young dog with so much change happening all at once. But Daisy has handled it all with grace and bravery. She’s learning her new routine, exploring our home, figuring out her place in the family, and every day she blossoms a little more. It’s amazing what love, patience, and a cozy spot next to the couch can do.

    Before Daisy, we were lucky to share our lives with two incredible dogs: Jerry, our wire-haired pointing griffon who passed in November 2021 at age 11, and Bob, our beloved Old English Sheepdog who crossed the rainbow bridge in February 2024 at 13. They were more than pets—they were our first “kids,” our loyal companions through years of laughter, chaos, milestones, and memories. They watched our children grow, sat beside us through life’s highs and lows, and filled our home with boundless energy and unconditional love.

    When Daisy came into our lives, I realized just how deeply I missed all the little things—long walks or morning runs with a furry shadow by my side, the sound of paws pattering down the hallway, that goofy dog energy that instantly lightens any day. I’d forgotten how much joy comes from a wagging tail, a wet nose, or a furry garbage disposal that’s more than happy to clean up after dinner.

    Daisy is helping fill that quiet space left behind by Bob and Jerry—not replacing them, but continuing the story they helped start. We’re grateful for the time we had with them, and we’re just as grateful for this new beginning.

    We’re excited for all that lies ahead: the hikes, the snuggles, the muddy paws, and the unexpected moments that make life with a dog so wonderfully unpredictable. Daisy, welcome home. We can’t wait to see what adventures are in store for us—with you leading the way.

  • Happy Easter to All!

    Happy Easter to All!

    From our family to yours, we hope your day has been as bright and joyful as ours! Today has been filled with all the best Easter traditions: surprise baskets with books and treats, cooking a delicious dinner together, getting creative with crafting and dyeing colorful Easter eggs. The kiddos dashed around on an egg hunt worthy of a springtime adventure, and yes—bunny ears were worn proudly all day long in celebration!

    May the laughter of loved ones, the sweet taste of chocolate, and the simple magic of these traditions make memories that last a lifetime. Here’s to family, fun, and the spirit of renewal that Easter brings—wishing you many more moments of happiness and togetherness today and always.

  • Spirited Harmony – Episode 6: Pause, Breathe, and Celebrate Progress

    Spirited Harmony – Episode 6: Pause, Breathe, and Celebrate Progress

    Sometimes the best thing we can do is simply breathe.

    Hey friends! It’s been a little while since my last podcast episode, and I wanted to hop on for a quick check-in. Life has been busy — full of new opportunities, shifting seasons, and those everyday moments that require our full attention. Maybe you’ve felt it too: that tug between doing and being.

    Episode 6 of Spirited Harmony is short and sweet — under 8 minutes — but it’s packed with something we all need more of: a gentle pause.

    In this episode, I share a quick life update, talk about how one door closing often leads to another opening, and guide you through a simple breathing meditation to help center your mind and spirit. Whether you’re in the car, taking a walk, or just need a quiet moment during your day, this meditation is here for you.

    I ask you — how are you being kind to yourself lately?

    Episode Highlights:

    • Quick check-in + life update

    • A gentle, grounding breathing meditation

    • Encouragement to reflect on your progress

    • A reminder that rest is productive

    Let’s Connect:

    I’d love to hear from you — What’s your favorite relaxation technique when life feels overwhelming? How are you practicing mindfulness in the middle of the chaos?

    Watch or listen here:

    YouTube Episode 6: Pause, Breathe, and Celebrate Progress

    Thanks for being here. You’re doing better than you think.

    Until next time — stay grounded, stay kind, and keep breathing.

    Sending Sunshine,

    Leslie

  • Life Happens, But Love Is Always On Time: My Last-Minute Valentine’s Game

    Life Happens, But Love Is Always On Time: My Last-Minute Valentine’s Game

    I absolutely love showing appreciation to the people in my life. It’s one of my favorite things to do—whether it’s for my kids, my husband, or my coworkers. Every year, I have the best intentions to start my Valentine’s tradition on February 1st, and this is the 1st year I’m behind. I love sharing little notes each day about what makes them amazing. But here we are…it’s February 11th, and somehow time just got away from me.

    Life happens, right? Between work, family, projects, and everything in between, I blinked and—poof—Valentine’s Day is almost here. But you know what? It’s never too late to spread a little love. And who doesn’t need a kind word to brighten their day?

    So instead of the usual daily notes, I’m switching things up this year with a one-day Valentine’s surprise. I’m creating a beautifully designed list of 14 reasons why I love and appreciate each person—all in one go. It’ll be colorful, fun, and heartfelt (thanks to Canva which is my quick Graphic Design go-to), and I’ll hang them on doors, desks, or wherever they’ll be a sweet surprise on Valentine’s Day.

    Why this still feels special? The love is still there, whether it’s spread out over 14 days or wrapped up in one beautiful list. Each note is filled with specific reasons that matter, not just generic compliments. And it’s realistic! Because sometimes, life is busy—but that doesn’t mean we forget to celebrate the people who matter most.

    How You Can Do It Too:

    1. Think of 14 Things You Love: Focus on the little moments, unique qualities, and things that make them them.

    2. Keep It Real: It doesn’t have to be fancy—just heartfelt. A mix of serious, funny, and sweet always works.

    3. Design It with Love: I’m using Canva to make mine fun and colorful, but even a handwritten note can be just as meaningful.

    4. Surprise & Delight: Hang it on a door, leave it on a desk, or tuck it into a lunchbox—wherever it’ll brighten their day.

    At the end of the day, love doesn’t have an expiration date. It doesn’t matter if it’s February 1st or February 14th—what matters is that we take a moment to tell the people in our lives how much they mean to us.

    Now, off to make my lists—because life may have been busy, but my heart’s always full. Sending love, happiness and sunshine your way!