blogging, Writing

Blogging Still Matters: Finding Your Voice Instead of Trends

Jana / February 23, 2025

You’ve probably heard it before—“Blogging is dead.” In a world of viral TikToks, polished YouTube vlogs, and lightning-fast social media feeds, writing long-form blog posts can feel like shouting into the void. People say, “If you’re not focused on social media, are you even doing anything?” But here’s the thing: blogging isn’t dead. It’s just evolved. And in many ways,…

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Mental Health

Morning Coffee Ritual

Coffee cup colored white with colored polka dots on a wooden table
Jana / October 17, 2024

I’m not a natural early riser, especially as the days grow shorter. Once the sun rises after 7:30 a.m., my circadian rhythm and daily routine clash dramatically. Coffee, the nectar of the gods, seems like my only salvation in the morning. I don’t even need the caffeine anymore; the aroma is enough to perk me up. While I’m not fond…

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blogging

Following My Own Blogging Path

Hands typing on a laptop keyboard
Jana / September 24, 2024

I started following blogs – then called online journals – in 1995. They were a glimpse into another life and even their mundane seemed more interesting than mine. Some of them were really well written and the authors went to publish successful books. Some went viral for a short time (remember the woman who cataloged her debt-free journey, including having…

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family, Frugal Living

Back-to-School Shopping: A Practical Guide (2024)

back to school clothes for kids
Jana / August 2, 2018

As August rolls in, the countdown to the first day of school begins, which means it’s time for back-to-school clothes shopping. This task has become more intricate now that my kids are tweens and fashion-conscious. They have clear “yes” and “no” lists for what they’ll wear and what they won’t, adding an extra layer of complexity.  Where to Start – Make A…

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family

Top 10 School Supplies Teachers Love

Top 10 School Supplies Teachers Love
Jana / July 27, 2018

It’s nearly time to start purchasing all those back to school supplies. Summer goes by t00 fast! I teach high school (cue sympathy sighs). It’s a great job, but I’m sure you know that teachers spend a lot of money on supplies. I don’t have a lot of money, so I’m always looking for what lasts. While I’m always ready for…

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blogging, Organization, Personal Organization

Declutter Your Day

monthly goals planning
Jana / July 18, 2018

This week, we’re on our annual lake vacation. There’s limited internet and no cellular service at all. Without all that connectivity, I’ve had hours of time to read, reflect and plan out the rest of the year. One of the things I’ve been reflecting upon is the amount of time I must spend passively using technology for no real purpose!…

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family, Writing

Lake Cabin Vacation

lake cabin view
Jana / July 8, 2018

We’re on vacation! Every year, we rent a cabin at the lake I spent my summers as a child. In fact, the cabin is directly across the lake from the lakehouse my grandparents owned. The cabin is part of a small, family-owned resort.There’s no tv and no cell phone service. Wifi only really works if you get up really early.…

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Writing

June Life

ice cream
Jana / June 27, 2018

School let out in a whirlwind. It seemed like every day was either a school event or an appointment that required at least an hour’s drive. It’s amazing how much can get crammed in those last days of school! Since then, we’ve been enjoying relaxing, sleeping in and having fun together! Ha! Ha! None of that is true… We’re up…

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family

School’s Out for Summer! 8 Summer Activities for Tweens

lake cabin fishing
Jana / June 15, 2018

School is out for the summer and we are planning a summer extravaganza! Just kidding, we are planning on staying home with the chickens and taking advantage of our local library, along with creating our own fun. Lots of summer activities for tweens! Our local library has tons of summer activities for kids; magicians, reptile handlers, movie afternoons, crafts, and, of…

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