One thing that’s always helped me during periods of uncertainty has been taking time out of my day to get lost in a feel-good story. During the past few weeks sometimes that’s meant reading--and I’ve included a great list of books that I hope will lift your spirits below. Other times, this has involved writing and working on my next love story. And sometimes this has meant “scripting”—which is the practice of writing the story of your own life. With more time at home than ever, it might be . . .
Tips for Hosting the Happiest Holiday Happy Hour
When I decide to research something, I really like to commit! Thankfully, last week’s research wasn’t hard to commit to. In fact, I may have poured myself a bit too much into it the research (or rather, been poured a bit too much). I visited my favorite restaurant in Newport Beach, Modo Mio, and sampled all the cocktails on their new cocktail menu! I love visiting Modo Mio during the holidays and throughout the rest of year because the staff makes you feel like family. You’re dining out, but . . .
What To Bring For Thanksgiving When You Can’t Cook Anything
In my house I avoid the kitchen the way most people avoid their nice, fancy dining rooms with expensive china; the light is rarely on and if the floor were carpeted, you would only see footprints near the cabinet where I keep my cheese plate boards and cocktail shaker. I’m not sure if I can’t cook, I just really don’t have a huge desire to. I’d much rather spend my evenings writing, reading, or out enjoying a meal at someone else’s fine establishment. So, Thanksgiving is always a bit daunting . . .
How To Stick With a Dream That Takes Years To Accomplish
In our current culture of instant gratification, deciding to take on a project that you know will takes years to complete can feel daunting. Social media doesn't help. It makes it look like others' dreams are materializing overnight and that can certainly add to the frustration and maybe even make you want to quit. (Been there!) As most of you know, I recently published my first novel after working ten years on the story. A few weeks ago I met another writer, Julianna Lembeck, who has spent the . . .
Fear Being Seen? How To Get Comfortable Sharing Your Creativity With Others
When it comes to what we wear, I’m all about camouflage. You can find these camo pants I’m currently loving here as well as a camo skirt I just added to my wishlist here. Creatively though, I don’t want to camouflage myself or be afraid of being seen. But the truth is that fear is something I struggle with daily, and I know lots of other creatives struggle with it as well. Shop The Look While visiting bookstores across the country, I had the opportunity to talk to many aspiring authors and . . .
How To Stay Healthy When You’re On The Road
I’ve been traveling quite a bit recently introducing shopfiction to bookstores and one question I got from a reporter the other day was: how do you stay healthy when you’re on the road. At home in Orange County I’m a personal trainer and group fitness instructor and typically teach several classes a day to help support my dream job. Traveling is a big adjustment and I’m certainly as guilty as the next person of succumbing to unhealthy habits when I’m not at home (and let’s be honest, when I am . . .
