Hello sweet friends!

Happy February 🩷
We made it through a longgggg and very cold January — my goodness, that one tested us. Columbus got hit with our first truly big snowstorm in a long time, temps dipped into the negatives for days, and school was canceled for most districts for an entire week. A full-on winter mess. Elsa was clearly not happy.

The first few days actually felt kind of magical. Cozy. Everything closed, nowhere to be, nothing to rush to. It gave us all permission to pause — and honestly, that kind of stillness is something we don’t get enough of. I leaned into it. Even went into the backyard and made a snow angel. Yep. Silly, fun, childlike… and something I haven’t done since the kids were little.

Now? I’m done. I’m grateful for my big, long, warm winter coat — but I’m real tired of putting it on and taking it off. I’m ready for milder winter temps, melting snow, and seeing sidewalks, driveways, and grass again. Forward motion sounds real good right now.

So let me ask you this… what do you do when your brain tries to talk you out of something you know you’ll love, but you’re nervous or unsure?

You do the thing.
Yep. Just like Nike says — JUST DO IT.

Anxiety and mind-spiraling have been part of my story for as long as I can remember. All the “what ifs,” the “I don’t want tos,” the wild scenarios that play out before I even begin. And of course, they always make things feel bigger and scarier than they ever truly are.

Over the years, I’ve worked hard to not let those thoughts stop me like they sometimes did when I was younger. Taking control, naming the feeling, and pushing past it has given me life-changing moments I would’ve never experienced if I’d let the negative thoughts win.

The unknown is still a tough space for me. I love a good plan. A tidy, predictable outcome. Don’t we all? But that’s not really where growth, resilience, or change live — and I know that now.

I’m proud of myself for feeling the anxiety and moving forward anyway. Staying “safe” isn’t where I want to live. Showing up — for myself and for others — no matter what the feelings are, that’s the plan. Feel it. Do it anyway. Come out the other side with a full heart and a smile because I did the thing. That’s living.

MOM-ing big kids… one of the most unexpected gifts of this season is that my time is becoming my own again. You think it’ll never happen — and then one day it does. They’re independent, on the move, doing their thing. Do I miss the carpool chaos sometimes? Maybe. But if I’m being honest, I love their independence. I love asking them for help. I love being the passenger princess while they drive. And I love having my time without a clock attached to it.

This might be an unpopular opinion, but I’ve always believed that filling myself first made me a better mom. Even when the kids were little, I protected time for me. I knew that if I was happy, strong, and full, they’d get the very best version of me — and hopefully see how to do the same for themselves.

MOM-ing is all the things, in every stage. But this one feels especially freeing. It’s giving me the gift of rediscovering who I am.

Our living room has been the center of our world these last few weeks — and I’m guessing yours has too. Big snow, bitter cold, and suddenly the most central room becomes the coziest one. All the blankets, all the movies, all the snacks. Togetherness at its finest. I’ve been writing bundled up on the couch instead of at my desk, coffee in hand… sometimes even a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup.

The living room is having a moment, and I’m here for it. Being in the space so much has me itching to finish its decor — Pinterest boards open, inspiration flowing, ready to breathe some fresh life into the heart of our home.

So start this week with a smile and a little bit of silly. Do something you haven’t done in a long time — something that makes you laugh, that feels light, maybe even a little ridiculous. Find that childlike wonder again. Life is buzzing, it’s fast, and it’s feeling a bit heavy. We could all use a little more silly and a little more light. 💫

Hello sweet friends!

Still digging out from this crazy snow storm from last week!

My goodness we have not had snow and cold like this for a hot minute!

Taking this week to get back into it…a new ON THE BLOG will be posted next Monday.

Hello sweet friends!

Winter half marathon training has officially begun… and I’m all in. I’m training for my most favorite half ever — Cap City Half at the end of April. This season feels different. I’m dialed in, focused, and ready to take on that 13.1 with everything I’ve got. No PR goal this year — just a feeling goal. Running with joy. Running because I GET TO.

If you’re a runner or a walker, I think you’ll totally get this. And if you’re not? I hope this nudges you to try something new. Step outside your comfort zone. One step at a time. 13.1 can sound intimidating — or it can be that big, bold goal that lights a fire. Start with one mile. Then add another. The magic is in simply starting.

WINTER HALF MARATHON TRAINING

Now, let’s be honest… I am not a Winter person. Like, at all. Winter training kind of sucks — but my favorite half is in the Spring, so here we are. I think it’s the layering for me. I’m petite, and once I’m fully bundled I feel like Randy from A Christmas Story — “I can’t put my arms down!”

Yes, the treadmill is an option, and I’ll use it when I absolutely have to. But running outside? There’s nothing like it. Even in the Winter.

1. My favorite base layer is the 32 Degrees scoop-neck long sleeve — a Costco find that comes in a pack (I think three). I have them in white, black, and gray and live in them.
2. For my main wicking layer, it depends on the temp and the weather. Crew necks, turtlenecks, quarter zips — I’ve got a mix from Under Armour, Lululemon, Athleta, Amazon, Nike… all the things.
3. The outer layer is key. I need warmth without the bulk. My New Balance MIT Coaches jackets are perfect for that. And I LOVE a vest — keeps the core warm and is ideal for those milder Winter days.
4. Now let’s talk running leggings. Always on the hunt for the perfect pair. I like what I have… but I’m still looking for leggings I LOVE. Drop your favorites if you’ve got them.
5. Gloves? I’ve had the same Costco pair for years — I think they’re HEAD brand — with a New Balance backup. For super cold days, I invested in GORE-TEX mittens and they are absolute MVPs.
6. And finally, the beanies. Just like baseball hats, I have a lot. My all-time favorites came from the kids section at TJ Maxx years ago. Small head perks — you better believe I always check the kids section for beanies.
7. Winter miles, Spring dreams. Let’s go. 🏃‍♀️❄️🌷

MY RUNNING WISHES FOR THIS SEASON

Wishes for myself written with grace and intention…

1. Stay consistent with my training — and be gentle with myself when things don’t go as planned.
2. Let joy lead. Always. The joy of movement first.
3. Let my competitive side shine… but never consume me.
4. Respect the distance I’m training for without letting it feel heavy or overwhelming.
5. Release the anxiety — pre-run, post-run… there’s nothing to be anxious about. This isn’t my first rodeo.
6. Keep showing up for the meaningful connections — support, encourage, and be supported by my running people.
7. Smile as much as possible.
8. Give high fives and hugs like they’re candy.
9. Celebrate the gift of movement. I GET TO DO THIS.
10. And when the “I can’t” or “I don’t want to” moments show up — remind myself: yes, you can. Do it anyway.

MY RECOVERY ROUTINE THIS WINTER

MY 2026 RACE SCHEDULE-SO FAR

And speaking of showing up — registrations are OPEN for all M3SSPORTS races! M3S truly creates experiences that celebrate a healthy, active lifestyle and the city of Columbus in the most special way. I’ve been an ambassador for six years now, and it’s such an honor to be part of something so good.

My favorite? The Cap City Half — hands down the BEST tour of Columbus on two feet. Cap City also offers a Quarter Marathon and a 5K, so pick your distance, run or walk, and just get out there and move with us. And the post-race party? Total vibe.

Don’t forget — I’ve got a code!
Use TORREM3S10 for 10% off your registration.

CLICK HERE FOR ALL THE M3S RACE INFO AND OF COURSE TO REGISTER!

BEST PART ABOUT RUNNING/WALKING

COMMUNITY!!

Community is everything. I’ve met lifelong friends through running — people who feel like family. Time on your feet, side by side, mile after mile creates a bond that’s hard to explain unless you’ve felt it. We show up. For the miles, the moments, and for each other.

f you’ve never spectated a race, do it. You’ll feel that unconditional energy immediately. And if you haven’t started your own run or walk journey yet, that energy might just pull you in. Find a run club that feels like home. Your journey will become something you truly treasure.

There are so many run clubs here in Central Ohio. I’m a proud member — and coach — with Marathoners In Training (MIT) through Fleet Feet Sports Columbus. This group has changed my life, one mile and one conversation at a time.

If you’re curious and want more info or would love to join MIT for the Winter/Spring season, click the link and come run or walk with us.

For more information and would like to join MIT for this WINTER/SPRING season click here.

Hello sweet friends!

2026 is officially in motion. Christmas is finally organized, packed up, and put away. And can we talk about how putting Christmas up feels so easy, joyful, and magical… yet taking it all down feels exhausting, taxing, and honestly kind of annoying? You would think the start of a fresh new year would make it exciting to clear it all out and move forward, right?

Most of it went pretty quickly, but the main tree? That one took me out. Just the thought of un-decorating it… whew. But it’s done. The tree is tucked away until next year, and now it’s time to move forward. I’m feeling fresh, clear, and powerful. With my words of the year guiding me, I’m ready to take on these next twelve months with a new kind of strength. There is no time like right now — go BIG, go BOLD, take up space, and own your place in this world.

These tag lines are how I see things now — thoughtfully created, deeply intentional, and shaped by a whole lot of living. They are the lenses through which I choose to look at life. Life is meant to be lived LARGE. It’s meant to hold at least a teaspoon of HAPPINESS every single day. It’s meant to be received as a GIFT. Life lived in gratitude, in the light, pushing through the uncomfortable. Loving yourself and the circle around you, fully and unconditionally.

When I write under this title, these ideas will always be at the heart of it — every subject, every topic tied back to living colorfully, boldly, and brightly. 2026 is our time to bring the color and share our bright. We all need it. And at the end of the day, we’re here to live a lovely life — so let’s freaking do it. Why wait?

MOM-ING BIG KIDS

Ms. Marin is back at school. And just like that, the house feels like it’s missing a piece… because it is. College kids — always coming and going — exactly as it’s meant to be.

There are so many emotions wrapped up in these goodbyes and reunions. Deep pride in her doing the things she’s worked so hard for. Excitement for all that’s waiting for her this semester. And yes, a little sadness too — because I’ll miss having her in my everyday world. It’s the natural push and pull of this season of life.

I feel like there’s so much conversation about MOM-ing when our kids are little, but not nearly enough about what it’s like when those wee ones grow up. And honestly? This stage of parenting has been my favorite. The emotions shift, the connections deepen, and what we share now brings us together in ways it simply couldn’t in those early years.

I miss her. And I’ll admit it — I check Life360 every now and then. Not to helicopter, just to be a quiet fly on the wall for a minute. I know she’s going to have a tremendous semester. I’ll be watching from the wings, cheering her on, always her safe place to land whenever she needs it.

And this spring… we’re hosting a GRAD PARTY!

Tuck is graduating from high school, and of course we’re celebrating big. There’s a lot we want to do to make it a truly lovely celebration, and the party will be at our house — exactly where it should be. That means a growing to-do list, which honestly feels like the motivation I need to finally tackle some home projects that have been lingering a little too long. I’ll be sharing that list and the progress along the way. My heart beats for beautiful visuals, especially inside our home, and hosting a party is the perfect finish line to get things moving.

I’ve already booked the tent, tables, chairs, and linens, and we have a clear direction for everything else. Booking rentals early is key — and was my biggest stress point — but the sweetest part? The rental company had our order on file from Marin’s grad party three years ago. Copy. Paste. Done.

This is a milestone moment for our family, closing a chapter that feels like a lifetime in our school system. A huge moment for Tuck, one we are incredibly proud to celebrate. Honoring him at our home just feels right. Soaking in all the lasts while looking ahead to spring and the celebration to come.

And because life always weaves in beautiful connections — there are two Tucks in my life. One is my son. The other is my dear friend Aaron Tucker, who goes by Tuck. He is a whole vibe. Someone I’m deeply grateful for. He inspires me with his outlook — through the ups and the downs, he has a gift for seeing the ups while still honoring the downs. His energy is infectious, his smile bright.

So let’s make this week about finding the ups in the downs. Be the inspiration. Pull others into your light and let them shine.

As Tuck always says… #begreat
GEAH GEAH!!

You can find Tuck on IG: @ajtucker31

Hello my sweet friends!

ON THE BLOG is taking a little pause this week—making space to refresh the house after the holidays. Not going to lie…the tree is still up. The very last piece of Christmas waiting to be packed away. I’m working on putting the period at the end of that sentence before moving forward.

I’m so excited to spend time here in this space this year. There’s so much I’m ready to write about, share, and create.

A brand new ON THE BLOG will be live next Monday.
See you right here on the 19th! ✨