What I Read in September 2025
This month I got back into my routine of reading and the books I read will stick with me: The Compound by Aisling Rawle, The Names by Florence Knapp, and Sunny Side Up by Katie Sturino. Each one was completely different in tone and theme, but all three pulled me in and kept me turning pages. From dystopian survival games to multi-threaded family sagas to a witty story of self-discovery, these books made for a memorable month of reading.
How I Choose a Halloween Theme (and Plan the Rest Around It)
Every year, I host a themed Halloween party. Here's how I land on a creative theme, design the invites, and plan every spooky detail—from playlist to party snacks.
How the Custom Illustration Process Works (and Why It's Easier Than You Think)
Commissioning art doesn’t have to be intimidating. My step-by-step process makes it simple, collaborative, and fun—so you end up with a piece that feels timeless and completely yours.
Chocolate Lemon Birthday Cake - A Family Tradition
A chocolate lemon birthday cake passed down through generations—layered with rich cake, zesty lemon filling, and dreamy boiled frosting. It’s not just dessert, it’s a family tradition.
Expat Life: The Hard Truths No One Talks About
Five years into expat life, I’ve realized the challenges don’t always show up when you expect them to. Living in Sweden has been a gift, but it’s also tested me in ways I never anticipated. Here’s a look at the hard truths of expat life—and how I’m learning to cope, rebuild, and keep moving forward.
Using Custom Illustration to Make Your Holiday Cards Extra Special
Holiday cards don’t have to be ordinary. Discover how custom illustrations can capture your family, pets, and milestones in a holiday card worth keeping.
Why Your About Page Needs Illustration (and How it can Transform Your Brand)
Your About page is one of the most-visited parts of your site—make it stand out. Here’s how illustration transforms bios into memorable, personality-filled brand stories.
Chile Relleno Chicken Soup
Creamy, hearty, and a little bit spicy—this Chile Relleno Chicken Soup is the perfect comfort food for fall and winter. Made with roasted poblanos, chicken, and plenty of cheese, it’s a cozy weeknight meal worth adding to your recipe rotation.
What I Read in August 2025
This August, I finally read Light from Uncommon Stars by Ryka Aoki—a genre-bending, heart-filled story about music, donuts, aliens, and the beauty of acceptance.