A relaxed, fresh weeknight dinner menu for warm evenings and easy conversation. There is something about eating outside that makes even the simplest dinner feel a little more special. This is the kind of weeknight menu I come back to when the weather is kind, the day has been full, and I want dinner to […]
A Simple Weeknight Dinner on the Back Deck Read More »
Home Between Us: What I’m Learning About Raising Siblings Side by Side Dear Charli, This is the first of a few letters I want to write to you about sibling relationships. About what they are, what they can become, and how we can be more intentional in building something strong between you. Before you ever
The First Friendship: Why Sibling Relationships Matter Read More »
Playlist: Confidence Boost Dear Charli, There will be days when you wake up already carrying something heavy. And there will be days when you need to walk into a room, a conversation, or a moment with more confidence than you feel. On those days, I want you to remember this. You can change the way
Build a Soundtrack for Your Life Read More »
An interview with my friend Maureen about heritage, memory, and the recipe that keeps her family connected. With St. Patrick’s Day approaching, I wanted to explore the deeper meaning behind Irish traditions that many of us celebrate each year. My friend Maureen lives here in the United States but has deep Irish roots. She recently
Nana’s Irish Soda Bread: Maureen Kelly’s Family Recipe and Irish Heritage Read More »
A personal reflection on career transition, uncertainty, and learning to notice what is quietly unfolding. Dear Charli, I have been struggling. This season of career transition has not been easy for me. This is one of those moments where the economy, the workplace, and the modern job search are all changing so radically that much
When You Are Waiting for Words, but Life Is Speaking in Flowers Read More »
A personal reflection on being sick, motherhood, and learning to care for yourself with the same kindness you offer others. Why is it so difficult? Dear Charli, I have been sick this week, the kind of sick that hits like a freight train and leaves you standing there wondering what just happened. I have
Why Caring for Yourself Is So Hard, and Why It Matters Read More »
I started reading Simply More by Cynthia Erivo after receiving it as a gift from my daughter-in-law, and from the very first chapter I felt myself slowing down, pausing, and listening. This is a book about learning to trust yourself and honor who you are becoming, so is perfect for anyone who is moving through
Christmas morning is a time when we have a lazy start to the day. Once the coffee and tea have been made, we explore what Santa may have brought (we traditionally exchange our family-given presents Christmas Eve after dinner) and when we’re ready, your Dad and I head into the kitchen to get breakfast ready.
Menu for a Family Christmas Morning Breakfast Read More »
If you have ever started baking only to realize your butter is still cold from the fridge, you are not alone. Many recipes require softened butter, and waiting 30 to 45 minutes can feel like forever. This simple kitchen trick will show you how to soften butter quickly so you can keep baking without delay.
How to Soften Butter Quickly (5-Minute Trick Using a Warm Glass) Read More »
When to Plan and When to Leap: A Mom’s Letter on Home, Food, and Finding Your Way Some things demand a plan, like getting the turkey in the oven on time. Other things – like starting a blog in the middle of a career transition – require a leap of faith. Dear Charli, I’ve spent
