4am monday morning routine as a content creator and adjunct professor before the 9 to 5 job
September 30, 2025
Happy Tuesday friends! Today I thought it would be fun to share all about my 4am Monday morning routine as a content creator and adjunct professor. You can watch, comment, and like it HERE!
Thank you so much for all of the interest! It was fun to share a reel like this! I hope you have a wonderful Tuesday friends!
From Routine to Remarkable: Reinventing
Your Life After Retirement
Let’s be honest—retirement can feel strange.
One day, your calendar’s full. Meetings, responsibilities, errands, appointments. The next?
Blank space. You’ve earned the rest, no question. But if you’re anything like most people, you
start to wonder: What now?
It’s not that retirement is bad—it’s just... different. And without structure, it’s easy to fall into
habits that don’t leave you feeling particularly excited or fulfilled.
But here’s the good news: this isn’t the end of your story. It’s just a brand new chapter—and you
get to write it however you want.
Routine Is Comfortable—But It Can Also Be a Trap
Let’s talk about routine.
We all have one. Wake up. Coffee. A little news. Maybe a walk. A few chores. Dinner. TV. Bed.
Repeat.
And hey, there’s nothing wrong with having a rhythm to your days. But when every day starts to
look exactly the same, it’s easy to lose your sense of direction. You might feel busy, but not
necessarily engaged. Or present. Or fulfilled.
This happens to a lot of retirees. And it’s totally normal. After decades of living by someone
else’s schedule, it’s hard to shift into a slower, open-ended way of life.
But that’s where possibility lives.
What Do You Actually Want From This Chapter?
Forget about what you’re “supposed” to do in retirement. What do you want to do?
Maybe there’s something you always thought about but never pursued—because of kids, work,
or life getting in the way. It could be something big, like traveling the world. Or something
simple, like painting again. Learning an instrument. Starting a garden. Joining a community
choir. Taking cooking classes.
This is the season where you finally get to do the things that are just for you—not because you
have to, but because you want to.
You don’t need a life overhaul. You just need to ask: what would make my days feel richer?
What Makes Life Feel Remarkable—Not Just Comfortable
There are a few key things that turn “just getting by” into “truly living.” And none of them require
huge amounts of money or dramatic reinventions. Just intention—and maybe a bit of curiosity.
1. Get Into Something You Genuinely Enjoy
Call it a hobby, a passion project, or just your “thing.” Doesn’t matter what it is. What matters is
that it gets you out of your head and into your life.
Start a blog. Build a birdhouse. Volunteer with animals. Whatever lights you up.
2. Stay Social—On Your Terms
Let’s be real: loneliness can creep in, especially when you’re no longer surrounded by
coworkers or daily social interaction. You don’t need a packed social calendar—you just need
connection. A weekly meet-up, a group class, even virtual book clubs can be a great way to stay
in touch with others who get it.
3. Shake Things Up With New Experiences
This one’s important. New experiences keep your brain sharp, your heart open, and your spirit
energized. That doesn’t mean you have to become a globetrotter. But stepping outside your
comfort zone—even in small ways—can completely shift your mindset.
Sometimes, that means exploring your own backyard. Other times, it means considering a
destination you’ve always dreamed about but never quite got around to.
That’s where opportunities like Egypt travel for seniors come in. It’s not about checking a box on
a bucket list—it’s about choosing experiences that are designed to meet you where you are.
Comfortable, paced well, and rich with history and culture. The kind of trip that adds meaning to
your memories—not just mileage.
And no, you’re not too old. You’re right on time.
Take Care of Yourself—Because You Matter
If you want your days to feel fuller, your energy and well-being have to be part of the
conversation. That means keeping your body moving, your mind engaged, and your emotional
health in check.
Walk a little more. Stretch a little longer. Talk to someone when things feel heavy. Take naps if
you need them. Eat food that makes you feel good. Don’t overcomplicate it—just take care of
the person who’s taken care of everyone else for years: you.
You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to be kind to yourself.
Create Meaning, However That Looks for You
Here’s something a lot of people don’t expect in retirement: you still want to feel useful.
That doesn’t mean you have to go back to work. But giving back in some way—sharing your
skills, mentoring, volunteering—can bring a huge sense of purpose. It’s not about being
productive for productivity’s sake. It’s about knowing your time, energy, and presence still
matter.
Because they do.
Not Sure Where to Start? Keep It Simple.
Don’t overthink it. The best way to break out of a rut is to take one small step.
● Try one new activity this week—even if it’s just a new walking route.
● Say yes to an invitation, even if you don’t feel like it right away.
● Sign up for a class—painting, yoga, history, whatever sounds fun.
● Start dreaming again. Where would you go if nothing was stopping you?
Spoiler alert: Nothing is stopping you.
This Is Your Chapter—Write It Boldly
You’ve done so much. You’ve built a life, raised families, worked hard, made sacrifices.
Now’s the time to live on your terms.
That might mean quiet days in a sunlit garden. It might mean planes and passports and new
places. It might mean joining a cause, writing a book, or just deciding that your happiness is
reason enough to do something new.
Whatever “remarkable” looks like for you—it’s not too late. It’s right now.
One Last Thought
You don’t have to reinvent everything overnight. You just have to start.
That might mean planning something meaningful—like a trip that’s paced for comfort, filled with
culture, and designed for people who want more than just a touristy checklist. Or it might mean
simply giving yourself permission to explore a different version of your day.
Either way, the routine isn’t the limit. It’s just the starting line.
So go on—surprise yourself.
*contributed post*
Happy Monday friends! Today I thought it would be fun to share some of my favorite hallmark movies to curl up and watch during the fall season. It is true that Hallmark often focuses on Christmas and the Holiday movies but there are several fall themed ones that are often overlooked and are so cute and adorable. If you are looking for sweet, feel-good, (yes very cheesy) and fun autumn movies to watch this season here are a few of my favorites...
Hallmark Description: A widowed surgeon visits her family’s pear orchard in hopes of taking a break from her overbooked life and reconnecting with her distant son. She starts to fall for the farm manager, Will, who is growing a new hybrid pear and teaches her the importance of her heritage. Stars Jen Lilley and Ryan Paevey.
Y'all I came across this movie on Amazon and I immediately thought it was one of the sweetest movies. I have high respect for both actors and the work that they do outside of acting and to see them in this sweet and adorable movie together made this for an easy pick for one of my favorite hallmark movies to curl up with this autumn. Also... can I just say that a man who loves the outdoors obviously would make my heart smile. *smiles*
Find it on Amazon HERE!
Other movies I loved with these two actors...
Hallmark Description: After being stood up, Abbey gets inspired to open her heart in a letter, put it in a bottle and toss it out to sea. Months later, a man fishing discovers it and opts to reach out. Starring Bethany Joy Lenz and Andrew Walker.
I think that this movie originally premiered in the Spring, but it feels like a fall movie to me and I had to include it because it is so cute. Again, I have high respect for both actors and the work that they do outside of acting and to see them in this sweet and adorable movie together made this for an easy pick for one of my favorite hallmark movies to curl up with this autumn. Also... anyone who knows me well remembers all of the notes in bottles that were put into the lake back in my teenage days and well understands why I would love this movie. *smiles*
Find it on Amazon HERE!
Other movies I loved with these two actors...
Snowed Inn Christmas (Starring Bethany Joy and Andrew together)
Hallmark Description: A young caterer’s life suddenly changes course when she inherits a country home and learns she must share it with a career-obsessed Wall Street trader. At first, these opposites do not attract, but feelings begin to change when they find themselves having to work side-by-side to restore their newly acquired home.
Hallmark Description: Brian and Jenny are engaged and preparing for the grand opening of their bed and breakfast. But when a big storm hits Bucks County, all their plans end up sopping wet! With funds running low and time running out, Brian agrees to go back to Wall Street to make quick cash, while Jenny scrambles to keep the opening on track. Stars Lacey Chabert and Brennan Elliott.
Hallmark Description: Jenny and Brian are planning their incredibly romantic wedding. Emily’s Country Inn is filled to capacity with happy guests. Then a distant relative of Emily’s arrives and she stakes a claim to the house. The pressure is on as Jenny and Brian try to raise enough money to hang onto their home. They go for broke expanding her company, Jenny’s Home Baked. Brian even considers a return to Wall Street. All of the wonderful friends they made in Bucks County are worried about their favorite couple, trying to figure out how to help. Jenny and Brian’s enduring love will once again be tested as the wedding day approaches and they struggle to keep the house that brought them together. Starring Lacey Chabert and Brennan Elliott.
These three movies were so adorable... and y'all the goats. So cute. Again, I have high respect for both actors and the work that they do outside of acting and to see them in these sweet and adorable movies together made this for an easy pick for a few of my favorite hallmark movies to curl up with this autumn.
Find them on Amazon HERE!
Other movies I loved with these two actors...
Crossword Mystery Series (Starring Lacey and Brennan together)
The Color of Rain (True Story)
Hallmark Description: When her family goes bankrupt, privileged city girl Jen Stone travels to the country to try and help a struggling pumpkin farm that her father bought as an investment to get her money back. Not everyone is on board with her changes, least of all Brett, the farm’s handsome manager. By working with what she knows best, she just might be able to turn the farm around, while also falling in love.
Y'all this one is simply so cute. It makes you laugh and it really is just a precious story. It was a Hallmark movie that I felt the trailer for it really didn't do justice for it and am so glad that we took a chance and tried it. It really is just so so cute.
Find it on Amazon HERE!
Hallmark Description: Following her tour of duty, army nurse Grace Conner (Macallan) returns to her grandmother’s (McGillis) farm in Ohio’s Amish country, and answers a neighbor’s call for medical assistance following a mysterious intrusion and shooting at his family’s nearby farm. Soon, Grace, who is not Amish, and Levi Troyer (Faris) develop a deep connection that is more than simply neighborly, and must sort out their forbidden relationship while Grace follows clues that ultimately lead her to the killer. Stars Jes Macallan, Sean Faris and Kelly McGillis.
This movie had a bit of a mystery with it and is a fun Hallmark movie to curl up with this autumn. It is honestly one of my favorites and I loved the plot and the character development. This family friendly mystery is a perfect one to watch on a cool fall evening.
Find it on Amazon HERE!
Other movies I loved with these two actors...
So there are just a few of some of my favorite hallmark movies to curl up with this autumn! What about y'all? What are some of your favorite fall Hallmark Movies?
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Choosing a rehab or mental health center is one of those decisions that can feel heavier the more you research. A single search brings up hundreds of centers all claiming to have the best staff, the nicest facilities, and the highest success rates. The truth is that some of them are excellent, some are fine, and some are more about the marketing than the actual care. Since the right choice can shape the entire recovery process, it helps to see a clear list of centers that stand out. Here are eight facilities in the United States that people are turning to in 2025. Each one is strong in its own way, so the question is which one feels right for you.https://www.pexels.com/photo/white-and-brown-hospital-beds-7335565/
https://www.pexels.com/photo/white-and-brown-hospital-beds-7335565/ Legacy Healing Center
Legacy Healing Center has become one of the most trusted names in treatment for people who want comfort and quality together. With locations in California, Ohio, and New Jersey, Legacy is easy to reach and has a full range of programs. Clients start with medical detox if they need it, then can move through inpatient or outpatient care, with aftercare to support them once they leave. Legacy is known for tailoring plans to each person rather than forcing everyone through the same structure. The combination of luxury facilities and serious clinical support makes it one of the stronger choices for people who want a program that does not stop at short term results.
Sierra Tucson
Sierra Tucson is set in the Arizona desert and has been described by many as part rehab, part retreat. They look at addiction and mental health through a whole person approach that brings together therapy, medical care, and wellness practices. A typical program might include one on one counseling, group therapy, and medical oversight, alongside yoga or meditation sessions. The desert backdrop gives clients a sense of space and quiet, which is useful for people who want time away from daily distractions. Sierra Tucson is a good option for those who feel drawn to an environment that is as much about renewal as it is about treatment.
Cliffside Malibu
Cliffside Malibu is one of the better known centers in California and it has built its reputation on offering both privacy and serious therapy. The location above the Pacific Ocean creates a calming atmosphere, but the real strength is in the evidence based treatment they provide. They dig into the root causes of addiction and mental health struggles rather than treating surface symptoms alone. Programs are designed to be flexible so clients get the right mix of therapy styles and support. Cliffside Malibu is well suited to people who want a private setting with care that matches the reputation.
American Addiction Centers
American Addiction Centers, often called AAC, runs facilities in several states. They are one of the largest providers in the country, which allows them to offer a wide range of services. From inpatient treatment to outpatient support and telehealth, AAC tries to meet people where they are. Their size also means they work with most major insurance providers, which makes treatment more accessible for many families. While some people prefer smaller centers, AAC’s reach and variety of programs make it a solid choice for those who want national coverage and consistent care.
McLean Hospital
McLean Hospital in Massachusetts is widely respected for its psychiatric programs, and their addiction treatment is closely tied to that expertise. They focus on people who are dealing with both mental health issues and substance use, which can be some of the most complex cases. McLean has a long history in research and patient care, and their hospital based setting means access to medical support is always available. It may not have the luxury setting of some centers, but for people who need advanced psychiatric care, McLean is one of the strongest names in the country.
Gateway Foundation
Gateway Foundation has been providing treatment for decades and now runs multiple centers across Illinois. As a nonprofit, they focus on making care accessible in local communities. Their programs include inpatient and outpatient services, with an emphasis on evidence based therapy. Gateway also offers support for clients to rebuild everyday life skills, which can make the transition out of treatment smoother. It may not be glamorous, but Gateway has the experience and stability that many people value.
Mount Sinai Addiction Institute
Mount Sinai Addiction Institute in New York is part of the larger Mount Sinai Health System. Being tied to a hospital gives it an edge when it comes to medical oversight. They are especially strong in treating people with dual diagnosis, where addiction and mental health issues need to be addressed together. Detox is carefully supervised, and ongoing treatment is backed by the resources of a major health system. For people in the Northeast who want expert care without leaving the city, Mount Sinai is a practical and reliable option.
Valley Hope
Valley Hope has been helping people since the 1960s and remains a trusted name across the Midwest. They run centers in states like Kansas and Missouri, focusing on a community driven approach. Their programs lean on the twelve steps and place a lot of importance on family involvement. Clients can choose residential or outpatient care, and the long history of the organization shows their ability to adapt over time. Valley Hope may not have the luxury of coastal retreats, but they offer stability, support, and a proven track record.
Comparison Table
So, who should you pick?
The answer depends on what matters most to you. If you want a program that blends comfort with a full plan from start to finish, Legacy Healing Center is one of the strongest choices. Every center here has a record of helping people rebuild their lives. The right one for you will be the one that fits your situation and your goals. Taking the first step will always feel hard, but it is also the start of things getting better.
*contributed post*
Happy Friday friends! This week has been exceptionally busy behind the scenes with a lot of different responsibilities, so this Friday Favorites post is just going to be a simple wish and blessing for you...
I hope that these last days and last weekend of September is beautiful time for you friends! If though, you have entered fall with a hurting heart, you may find a very personal post that I shared this past week on simple reflections on fall if you are hurting tenderly encouraging. You can read it HERE.
I am learning anew that there are sometimes where the questions will last, the pain needs time to heal, and that sometimes the changing seasons can be a blessing to fully step into.
Maybe unlike a lot of the "pretty pictures" that you see on social media your summer turned out much differently then you planned or desired or thought it would. Maybe it held pain that you can't talk about with anyone- publicly or privately. Maybe a work situation is very difficult. Maybe a relationship that you are in has brought pain. Maybe a health situation is not healing. Maybe ... maybe... maybe.
Whatever your "maybe" is friends, I hope and gently pray that as the season officially changes today that fall brings you peace and restoration in the areas that you are desperately longing for behind the scenes.
May your weekend be filled with blessings beyond what you can imagine. Happy Friday friends!
PS - If you are interested in a few additional posts from the last two weeks while I was out of town and traveling... here is a list of some of the most popular read posts (in addition to the simple reflections on fall if you are hurting tenderly encouraging post I mentioned above)...
Personal Reflections...
Travel Posts...
Teachers Pay Teachers...
Happy Thursday friends! Y'all know how much I love eating fresh and healthy foods that are in season and with pumpkins abundantly around I finally decided to research if there were any health benefits of eating Pumpkins. Y'all I am absolutely amazed at the health benefits that they bring to our bodies and wanted to share some of them with you today! Here are just a few of the powerful benefits that are found in pumpkins:
1. Eating pumpkins helps Protect your Eyesight.
Studies have shown that if you eat a cup of cooked pumpkin it contains more than 200% of your suggested daily intake of Vitamin A. Vitamin A is one of the key vitamins to help your eyesight according to the National Institutes of Health. In addition to this pumpkins are also rich in carotenoids which is full of Beta-Carotene, which the body will convert into a form of Vitamin A. (An additional side note: Beta-Carotene is also an excellent anti-oxidant in safe doses so it will help your immune system!)2. Eating Pumpkins aids in Weight Loss. Pumpkins are full of fiber which helps to keep you feeling full longer. At an amazing 7 grams of fiber per cup and super low in calories (like their "fall friend", apples), pumpkins are an excellent choice of food to aid in your weight loss plans. 3. Eating Pumpkins can help Reduce your Blood Sugar. One of the amazing things about pumpkins is that research is now showing that pumpkin oil can be beneficial in preventing hypertension. 4. Eating Pumpkins may help Prevent Cancer. As I mentioned in #1, the Beta-Carotene that is present in Pumpkins helps to boost the immune system. In addition to this Beta-Carotene may help play a role in Cancer Prevention according to the National Cancer Institute. 5. Eating Pumpkins may help Improve Your Mood. Pumpkin seeds are rich in a particular amino acid called tryptophan. This amino acid is extremely helpful in the production of serotonin which research has shown helps control our moods. 6. Eating Pumpkins will help Boost your Potassium. Just like bananas are known for their potassium levels, Pumpkins are also helpful. In fact, pumpkins have more potassium at 564 milligrams than bananas do. Potassium will help restore the body's electrolyte balance and helps our muscles to function at their best. 7. Eating Pumpkins may Help Patients with Diabetes. Recent studies are showing that pumpkins help to reduce blood glucose levels, help improve glucose tolerance and even help increase the amount of insulin that the body is producing. These studies are in the infant stages, but it will be interesting to see if overtime they show promise of helping patients. 8. Eating Pumpkins helps to Protect Your Heart. A Harvard study of over 40,000 participants found that those who ate a diet that is rich in fiber (like the amount that pumpkins hold) had a significant lower risk of coronary heart disease. A recent study done in Sweden showed that women who ate a diet high in fiber had a 25% lower risk of heart disease. 9. Eating Pumpkins helps to treat Intestinal Parasites. According to Debbie Edson from Living Well Magazine, pumpkin seeds can help your body get rid of nasty gut parasites that make us sick. Interestingly enough, Pumpkin seeds have been used for this exact purpose by Native Americans and in some parts of Africa Pumpkin seeds are used to treat tapeworms. Isn't that amazing friends? Those are just 9 benefits of eating pumpkins and there are so many more! What about y'all? Do you eat pumpkins or pumpkin seeds? What health benefits have you found from eating them? {Disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. The reader should always consult his or her health care provider to determine the appropriateness of the information for their own situation or if they have any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment plan. Reading the information on this website does not create a physician-patient relationship.} |
As a homeowner, your property should be your pride and joy. You’ve invested a lot of money to make it your own, so it’s important to upkeep it over the years.
This way, you’ll enjoy living in it more, and it’ll be that much more ready to sell if you decide to move in the future. While it will require some hard work, time, and dedication, your efforts are sure to pay off. Learn more about how to keep your home in tip-top shape year-round.
Clean & Declutter Often
One way to keep your home in tip-top shape year-round is to clean and declutter often. Get on a regular cleaning schedule and keep the cleaning supplies handy. It’s a good idea to perform a deep cleaning with the change of seasons. Get in the habit of picking up, sweeping the floors, and wiping down the countertops each night before bed. Go through your belongings and get rid or donate items you don’t need or use. Make room for what you love and want to display by regularly decluttering. Label boxes and invest in storage solutions that ensure everything has a place to reside.
Make Fixes & Repairs Right Away
Like any home, there are going to be issues that arise throughout the year. It’s best to address and fix them right away rather than letting them go for too long. Small problems may snowball into larger matters that will be more costly and damaging in the long run. It’s especially true when it comes to the appliances in your home. The good news is that you can purchase OEM parts for appliance brands like Whirlpool online and make the repair yourself in no time. It doesn’t matter if it’s a dishwasher or a dryer; you can repair it and get it back up and working with the right parts.
Follow A Seasonal Maintenance Schedule
Another way to keep your home in tip-top shape year-round is to follow a seasonal maintenance schedule. You can find resources online and print them off so you can keep track of each task. This way, you don’t have to think about it all the time and can refer to your cheat sheet as needed. It will keep your home in proper working order and ensure that your property is a safe place to live. Many of these tasks you can complete on your own without the help of a pro.
Boost the Curb Appeal
Keep your home in tip-top shape year-round by boosting the curb appeal. It will give your home a good first impression to passersby and add value to your property. There are small and big projects you can complete that will make a difference. If you have a cracked driveway or old garage doors, it will be worth replacing them. Decorate your front porch according to the season and paint your front door an attractive color. Maintain your landscaping by cutting and fertilizing your lawn and trimming back overgrown shrubs and trees.
Conclusion
These tips will help you keep your home in tip-top shape throughout the year. You will be much happier living in your home when you take good care of it. Now is your chance to make your home a better place to live and attend to tasks that you tend to ignore or put off for a later date.
*contributed post*
Happy Monday friends, and happy first day of fall... I admit that as a girl who usually hates to see summer end, but loves fall here in upstate New York... this year I absolutely dreaded it. Not at first, mind you... I was looking forward to fall with a lot of excitement but about six weeks ago something took place personally behind the scenes in my life (in addition to the hiking fall) that left me stunned and with a ton of questions... and very deeply hurt and wounded.
I haven't talked about it (obviously) on line here as I keep a lot of my private life- private and the things that involve others in my close knit circle - private... but it left me wanting to hold onto summer a little longer than ever.
I think I kept thinking that if we could just hold onto summer then there could be a very nicely wrapped up bow and things would make sense and summer needed to last until that happened...and maybe that is exactly how you are feeling as we officially start fall today.
I am learning anew that there are sometimes where the questions will last, the pain needs time to heal, and that sometimes the changing seasons can be a blessing to fully step into.
Maybe unlike a lot of the "pretty pictures" that you see on social media your summer turned out much differently then you planned or desired or thought it would. Maybe it held pain that you can't talk about with anyone- publicly or privately. Maybe a work situation is very difficult. Maybe a relationship that you are in has brought pain. Maybe a health situation is not healing. Maybe ... maybe... maybe.
Whatever your "maybe" is friends, I hope and gently pray that as the season officially changes today that fall brings you peace and restoration in the areas that you are desperately longing for behind the scenes.
I came across a quote on social media that stopped me a few weeks ago and edited it a bit...I am sorry I don't know who the original quote belonged to (if you do please let me know in the comments so I can credit although our quote is quite a bit different) and I thought I would share it here for those that might find it encouraging...
Finally, I realized that I am not a permanent person in anyone’s life or anyone’s story, but my deepest prayer is that I would be allowed to be the best temporary (minutes, hours, days, weeks, months, years, decades, till the end of my life) person in the chapter, season, fleeting or long held - lifetime moments. I will stay joyfully as long as the season allows (hoping for a lifetime) but with hope and gratitude gladly hold things freely open handed, giving the freedom for anyone to leave which is the highest tender respect one can give with love.
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