Hello my sweet friends!

I think you all know by now… pink is my forever favorite. 💗 Followed closely by kelly green and navy. I mean — I scream preppy, don’t I?

Preppy is my core. It’s who I’ve always been, who I am now, and who I’ll always be. Classic with a twist — that’s my sweet spot. Living in color. Wearing color. I’m pretty vanilla in most other areas — no tattoos, one piercing in each ear (usually pearls), nail polish bright but nothing wild. Color is how I express myself. Even just a pop of it feels like me.

PERSONAL STYLE

Style evolves as we do, but certain pieces of you stick around — tried and true. I’ve loved fashion since I was little. I used to change outfits multiple times a day depending on what I was doing… and honestly? I still do. I dress for the activity, for the mood, for the energy I want to bring.

When I dress, I dress head to toe for the occasion. Tennis. Running. The gym. Dinner out. Whatever it is — I make it an event. I’ve always needed the full look, the just-right gear. The look creates a feeling. It helps me show up grounded and powerful. It doesn’t create confidence — but it absolutely enhances it.

VINTAGE PIECES

One of the greatest gifts has been inheriting garments and accessories from the women in my mom’s family. Each piece carries a story, a memory, an imprint of someone I love. The craftsmanship, the quality, the details — they just don’t make things like they used to. Incorporating vintage into my everyday preppy style is one of my favorite things. That unexpected pop of something special? It ties it all up with a bow.

PASSION FOR HIGH FASHION

Fashion is art. Truly wearable art. Runway shows mesmerize me — the movement of fabric, the manipulation of texture, the form. The creative genius behind each piece. Some looks aren’t ready-to-wear, sure — but I love the beyond-the-everyday thinking. The imagination.

I can appreciate high fashion without it being my personal style. It doesn’t have to be. The artistry, the influence, the way designers set tones and color palettes each season that trickle all the way down the fashion chain — that’s the magic of it all.

DRESS FOR YOU

Dress in what makes you feel powerful. Dress in what makes you smile. Own your personal style. Trends will always come and go — but who you are? That’s steady. Walk the runway of your life with confidence and a smile.

Mimosa cheers to the gift of fashion — for giving us a way to express who we are outwardly with color, texture, strength, whimsy, and joy.

Hello sweet friends!

ON THE LIST will be posted next Monday…have taken time this past week to complete a few home improvement projects. When I get into a project, I really get into a project!

See you here Monday the 23rd!

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.