Random Thoughts From Last Week


Loving yourself doesn’t mean giving into your every desire. Somewhere along the way I feel many have decided that’s the case. Love = never disappointing and never saying no. That's not true though. Indulgence without sacrifice is not self love.

Nikon Z6, ISO 100, 25mm, f/16, 1/6 sec [McKinney Falls State Park, Austin, Texas]


Why do so many parents just take the easy way out when it comes to their kids? I’m guilty in some instances, but hopefully not where it counts. See below… and maybe also above.


Effort up front saves you time and heartache in the end. Trust me. Why are we so hesitant to give it?


I haven’t had a pimple in over 6 months because I use a cleansing brush twice a week. I just feel like everyone should know that and get one to help clear out your pores and keep your face nice and smooth. I use this one from Amazon.

That’s an affiliate link and I may earn a tiny commission, but your price doesn’t change.


“I ate that growing up and I turned out fine.” - Literally everyone with a chronic health problem

…But did you though?


Soooooo is there a certain age women become bird watchers? Because I feel like it’s 38.

….It’s definitely 38.

Nikon Z6, ISO 1000, 24mm, f/2.8, 1/640 sec [Airport Park, Waco, Texas}]


What possessed me to buy completely white shoes? That was dumb. I blame Instagram.


Why even say anything at all if the message in a nutshell is…

“The plan was always to eliminate your position, but know that people are fighting for your position.”

Just stop talking because you’re just making yourself look like an ass. I’d rather be takin pictures.

Nikon Z6, ISO 1000, Lensbaby Edge 35, 1/4000 sec [Austin, Texas]


As Seen in Issue 11 of the Magnolia Journal

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Issue No. 11 of the Magnolia Journal surrounds the idea of Freedom and inspires you to celebrate freedom in a number of ways. Maybe you celebrate freedom by choosing a path for you instead of what was expected, maybe it’s letting go of comforts to allow room for growth, maybe it’s packing out your kids into the car and living life on the road, or maybe it’s simply running through the grass barefoot on a summer day with literally nothing else to do. There’s even a summer bucket list that will inspire you to make this the best summer ever and live like you’re a kid again. If this sounds like your jam or you just want some of the grilled flatbread recipes (because they look freaking delicious and easy to make), go get it. If you just want to find a few Joanna Gaines approved items you can buy online, well then, I can help you with that. Just keep scrolling.


Backpack by Walker Family Goods

There’s an entire article about the Walker Family in this issue. They sound kind of amazing and I want to be them for like a week (likely I’d change my mind after 1 day in the car with my kids). Plus I’m just loving the vintage vibe of this bag.

Chemical Free Sunscreen

Look, I use the bad stuff on my kids too because it works. I’m trying to do better though and this one caught my eye.




Coconut Milk Roll On Perfume

There’s a seaweed + sea salt one I really want to try. I haven’t used perfume in years, but this makes me want to try.


But seriously, this issue has me saying all the yeses and I’m really anxious to try the spinach + artichoke flatbread and the tomato + basil flatbread. There’s even a recipe for chimichurri with avocado that sounds amazing too and since our outdoor kitchen is finally up and running, you can bet we might just be trying that one very soon with whatever steak I can get Tyler to cook. I don’t grill so if you know what an appropriate cut of mean for a chimichurri is, feel free to share.

So yeah, if you’re asking my opinion, I’d totally recommend issue no. 11 of the Magnolia Journal.

-Monica