Rebecca VanDeMark's Blog, page 2

friday favorites- october 3rd

             Never met a pumpkin I didn't love... *smiles*
Happy Friday friends! I hope that you have had a lovely week! I am savoring the last few days at the cabin (as the weather has turned very beautiful and chilly) and I am looking forward to the weekend.
Here are some of my favorite things from this past week! First of all....  1. 4am Monday Morning Routine as a Content Creator and Adjunct Professor Before the 9 to 5 Job Instagram Reel (click  HERE  to watch, comment and like!)Thank you so much for all of the likes, comments, and views on this IG reel! Y'all so many messages behind the scenes on this and they were so sweet! I love watching these types of things and it was so fun to make! 
I am looking forward to sharing more content like that and am so glad that it was so well loved. If you haven't had a chance to watch, like, share or comment on it you can do so HERE . I also really appreciate the love on that- even just a simple view and like means so much as a content creator and truly is very helpful. Thank you! Again, you can find it HERE ! 2. 9 Free Fall Activities Personal Finance PowerpointIf you are a Personal Finance teacher or you host some sort of financial literacy courses and are looking for a simple and yet effective powerpoint to highlight free activities in the fall for your audience, than this resource is for you! This powerpoint highlights 9 FREE and inclusive fall activities ! This resource will help bring practical knowledge to your financial literacy classroom and creative engagement to your lectures during this fall season! You can find this resource HERE !
This resource is just one of the many incredible holiday resources included in the 5 STAR  Personal Finance Holiday Unit Bundle available in the shop (click HERE )! Here is a complete list of all of the 21 Holidays and Resources: 
August: 5 STAR RATED National NonProfit Day PowerpointSeptember: National Coffee Day PowerpointOctober: Free Fall Activities PowerpointNovember: Black Friday PowerpointNovember: Friendsgiving/Thanksgiving PowerpointDecember: Christmas PowerpointJanuary: Ski/Snowboard Trip Budget WorksheetFebruary: Valentine's DayMarch/April: Spring Break Trip Budget WorksheetMarch/April: Easter PowerpointApril: Solar Eclipse Powerpoint, Solar Eclipse Word Search, Solar Eclipse Word ScrambleApril: Earth Day PowerpointSpring: Equal Pay Day: 5 STAR RATED 5 Star Rated Equal Pay Day Lesson Plans, Equal Pay Day Powerpoint, Equal Pay Day Word Search, Equal Pay Day Word Scramble, Equal Pay Day Bingo CardVarious Travel Budget Powerpoint and Worksheets: Creating a Travel Budget Powerpoint with Guided Notes, Road Trip Budget, Travel Budget, Cruise Trip Budget Worksheet
I am SO grateful for ALL of your support of this shop. Y'all... THANK YOU. This is something that I work so hard on behind the scenes and your support, reviews, and encouragement are HUGE. You can find the Shop  HERE ! 3. My Favorite Hallmark Movies to Curl Up With This AutumnY'all know that I am not a huge TV watcher ... so many years sick in bed clears away any ideas of that being fun *smiles* , but it is always cute to curl up with a good movie sometimes. This week 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 click HERE to read... 4. Top 10 Must Pack Items for a New England and Canadian CruiseThis is one of my all-time most loved and read posts for fall travel and this week I was so excited to share an updated version with you! Fall weather brings out a love for a cruise to New England Canada in unique ways and these destinations always seems like the perfect way to celebrate this time of year! Cruising in the fall has been one of my favorite adventures!
When I took my first cruise to New England and Canada back in 2015 , I searched for what to pack for this type of cruising climate and I struggled to find answers. There were tons of ideas for warmer weather cruising but not for "colder weather climates". So I searched to find anyone who had been on a New England cruise that could share their thoughts, talked with different cruise lines, and searched tons of travel sites for their thoughts on visiting this area of the world. The reality is that this area of the world in the summer and fall seasons yet it can bring unpredictable weather, beautiful views, and gorgeous opportunities. 
I have taken two cruises through New England and Canada. In addition to the one in 2015, in 2019 my mom and I had the amazing opportunity to sail in August through New England and Canada on Holland America and it was so delightful (you can read all about our trip  HERE )! The one thing though that held true was that despite the season difference (late summer versus fall) I found that the list here still helped me pack appropriately for these two different types of trips. I hope you find it helpful also!

So if you are planning a similar cruise (or dreaming of one), here are the top 10 things that you can't leave home without y'all click  HERE  to read this post! 
A Recent Amazon Purchases... This Stanley My sister had gifted me a Stanley two summers ago, and it was time for a new one for a couple of reasons. I loved the size of this one and also the color and am excited to use this one! You can find it (on sale) on Amazon by clicking HERE ! THIS Heating Pad When I was a teenager I tried to attempt a "stunt" (like I was a cheerleader- please don't ask *smiles*) while I was water skiing. Suffice it to say the stunt went horribly wrong and I took a bad fall that hurt my back. About 7 years ago I was skiing (winter this time) and I took a bad fall... between the two things- I can unfortunately end up in extreme pain if my back goes out... so one of the things that I have always been grateful for, has been the suggestion of  THIS heating pad  by one of my doctors about 10 years ago. I can't say enough good things about it and can't recommend it enough! If you have been around the blog the last decade then I also have to say that this was a huge help while I was extremely sick fighting Advanced Late Stage Lyme Disease and Cancer (and other things). The heating pads of this brand come in a variety of sizes (I use  the medium size  while my mom loves  the small size ). 
For after my mom's knee surgery we also purchased the knee version and this was a huge help also. (You can find that  HERE ). There are tons of options of sizes, but if you are looking for a new heating pad definitely try these out. It definitely is an investment, but worth every single penny. Mine have lasted for about 5 years - so they last a LONG time! I just checked and on Amazon they are having a  MAJOR sale today  so definitely check that out! 7. FLASHBACK FRIDAYWith Caravan Sonnet turning twelve years old this year I love sharing on Fridays some of the older but most popular posts on the blog! One of the things that Caravan Sonnet developed into was a a resource for those looking for cozy luxury travel around the United States and World. 
As I mentioned above, on one of those fall cruises we went to New England and Canada and had a lovely stop in Old Quebec City . You can read about our brief time there by clicking HERE ! 
I am so delighted that we are heading back to Quebec City (during the Christmas season!) so this is a lovely time to remember our brief time in a city that we are excited to explore again soon! 
Interested in the Fall New England and Canadian Cruise that we took? Click on the links below: 
Holland America Canada/New England Cruise (2019):// Zaandam Ship Review Holland America // //  Holland America Cruises: Answers to Your Most FAQ's // 
// Thunder Hole, Acadia National Park (Maine) //// Cadillac Mountain, Acadia National Park (Maine) // Peggy's Cove, Nova Scotia //// Baddeck, Nova Scotia // Things to do in the Port of Sydney, Nova Scotia //// Green Gables, Prince Edward Island // Red Cliffs at Cavendish Beach, Prince Edward Island//// Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island// Old Quebec City// // A Walk Around the Historic Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac, Quebec City // Port of Montreal // 
I hope that you have a wonderful Friday friends! Thank you for making this such an incredible space to come to and connect with every single day. I am so blessed!!

top ten must pack items for a new england and canadian cruise

Hello friends! Thank you so much for stopping by to read today! I am so excited to discuss the top 10 must pack items for a New England and Canada cruise today! This is one of my all-time most loved and read posts for fall travel and I am so excited to share an updated version with you!
Fall weather brings out a love for a cruise to New England Canada in unique ways and these destinations always seems like the perfect way to celebrate this time of year! Cruising in the fall has been one of my favorite adventures!

When I went on my first cruise throughout New England and Canada in 2015 (you can read more HERE ) I quickly learned that it was very different then packing for other cruises! For examples, cruises to New England and Canada aren't like packing for a cruise to the Caribbean. When I went cruising to the Caribbean my suitcase was filled with cute sundresses, lots of cute sandals and flip flops, bating suits, and adorable warm weather clothes. But unlike the tropical getaway that a cruise to the Caribbean provides, cruising to New England and Canada in the summer or fall provides a completely different climate.
When I took my first cruise to New England and Canada back in 2015 , I searched for what to pack for this type of cruising climate and I struggled to find answers. There were tons of ideas for warmer weather cruising but not for "colder weather climates". So I searched to find anyone who had been on a New England cruise that could share their thoughts, talked with different cruise lines, and searched tons of travel sites for their thoughts on visiting this area of the world. The reality is that this area of the world in the summer and fall seasons yet it can bring unpredictable weather, beautiful views, and gorgeous opportunities. 

I have taken two cruises through New England and Canada. In addition to the one in 2015, in 2019 my mom and I had the amazing opportunity to sail in August through New England and Canada on Holland America and it was so delightful (you can read all about our trip HERE )! The one thing though that held true was that despite the season difference (late summer versus fall) I found that the list here still helped me pack appropriately for these two different types of trips. I hope you find it helpful also!

So if you are planning a similar cruise, here are the top 10 things that you can't leave home without y'all: 1. LayersWith weather that is unpredictable during this time of the year (some days can be in the low 30s to the high 80s!!) it is important to pack clothes that you can "layer". I definitely threw in different coats along with lighter weather clothes (as you can see in the picture above) and the mix and matching of these items really helped me throughout the day!
2. Boots, Booties, Shoes, SandalsUnlike the Caribbean where you live in sandals, you might want to vary your shoe "wardrobe" a little bit more for a New England Cruise. For time on the boat you might want to still live in cute sandals but time off the boat and the excursions that you choose might determine that you wear different types of shoes. 
Taking a cruise to New England and Canada offers you a wide array of options as far as choices go for excursions and many that include hiking so don't forget to pack a variety of different shoes that you will need for your cruise!
3. ScarvesLets be honest. If you have been around the blog then you know that I love scarves and where them in all different weather environments, but a cruise to New England and Canada is a perfect opportunity and excuse to wear a variety of different scarves on the cruise. 
Scarves are also a perfect accessory for a cruise as they are lightweight and don't take up a ton of room but can bring a pop of color to an outfit, change up an outfit (by simply wearing a different scarf), and are the perfect addition to any cruising outfit. 4. SunscreenIt can be easy to forget this necessary component of your New England and Canada cruise since you are not traveling to a "warm weather" environment but don't forget to pack your sunscreen! There are so many days where the weather is so beautiful and you will definitely want to have your sunscreen with you! THIS ONE  is one of my ultimate favorites and it is less than $9 on Amazon. You can find it by clicking HERE !  5. Camera (and the Extras)I use my phone for pictures alone with my camera, but still am a photographer at heart so I always bring my camera on all of my trips and travels ! I have the  Canon EOS Rebel T5i  and absolutely love it. I purchased it in 2016 and am always amazed by the quality of the photos it takes. I love this SD card  HERE  (it's less than $10!!)

Some additional suggestions...
Portable Battery Pack
6. Extension CordThrow in an extension cord and you will be glad that you did! One that I bring along is the  6-Outlet Surge Protector Power Strip  simply because it allows for several things to be plugged in at once which is a must on a cruise! (Less than $10!) 7. Travel ChargerI wrote an entire post (you can read HERE ) all about my new favorite travel charger (that I also use all the time), so I am not exaggerating when I say that this is truly my favorite charger !
8. Purse, Bag, Etc. Woven Tote Travel Purse  (click HERE ) (Additional Ideas: HERE and HERE)
Those of you who know me know that I have a little love affair with purses. *smiles* I have had many over the years, and love large purses- especially for traveling. For each of my trips I look for purses that I feel will "fit" the climate and the elements and that will be a neutral based color to easily match the clothes I am wearing. I also want a purse that was leather that could transition easily into fall. I love the color tone of the Burgandy purse above and the size of it. 
Also... if you have ready some of my other packing posts you will have heard me mention purchasing a  Sturdy Purse Organizer  and y'all. SERIOUSLY. Go purchase this for everyday life along with travel! I have started talking about non-stop and telling everyone about. Just the other day I was telling two friends that they needed to get one! It is life-changing! Hahaha! 
This felt organizer  (I chose the beige color so that it will go with any of my purses!) comes in 11 different colors and is less than $20 on Amazon (you can find it  HERE ). I love that I can easily switch purses now just by taking this out and changing it from one purse to another. SO simple and easy! Even if you don't travel a lot you will love it for daily life (for size reference I chose a medium)! For traveling mine was loaded up with tons of items and it was the easiest trip in the airports because of how organized it kept things in my purse! If you are interested in it you can find it  HERE ! 
9. Journal, Travel Books, Etc.Y'all know from my shop that I love creating and altering travel books and  travel journals  so this recommendation is probably not a surprise at all! *smiles* Some people like to pack travel guides to take with them on the cruise so they can explore in depth the ports of call while others like to bring journals on board so as to remember the special details and memories that are made. Check out the shop for perfect solutions for your travel needs!
10. Cruise Documents and PassportDon't forget that you will need to bring all of your cruise documents and passport. Looking for a cute passport holder? I love  THIS travel organizer  and it is less than $15!
What about y'all? Any must pack items that you recommend for a New England/Canadian Cruise? Looking for more cruising tips? Check out the following cruising posts: Cruising Tips:   Viking Rhone River Cruise: Answers to Your Most FAQ's5 Things People Forget to Bring on Their First European River Cruise   10 Valentines Day Gift Ideas for the Cruise Lover 6 Tips for Planning the Perfect Cruise   3 Important Documents to Bring on Every Cruise   Viking River Cruises: Answers to Your Most Frequently Asked Questions   River Cruising vs. Ocean Cruising: 23 Key Differences to Know7 Things to Take With You While In Port                                              10 Things People Forget to Bring on Their First Cruise                                                                  10 Things to Do Before You Leave on Your Caribbean Cruise 5 Must Pack Items for Your Disney Cruise to the Bahamas 16 Unexpected Things to Bring on Every CruiseTop 13 Must Pack Items for a Caribbean Cruise                                                  10 Must Pack Items for a New England & Canada Cruise                                                

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, youstart to wonder: What now?
It’s not that retirement is bad—it’s just... different. And without structure, it’s easy to fall intohabits 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 youget to write it however you want.
Routine Is Comfortable—But It Can Also Be a TrapLet’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 tolook exactly the same, it’s easy to lose your sense of direction. You might feel busy, but notnecessarily engaged. Or present. Or fulfilled.
This happens to a lot of retirees. And it’s totally normal. After decades of living by someoneelse’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 communitychoir. Taking cooking classes.
This is the season where you finally get to do the things that are just for you—not because youhave 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 ComfortableThere are a few key things that turn “just getting by” into “truly living.” And none of them requirehuge 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 isthat 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 bycoworkers or daily social interaction. You don’t need a packed social calendar—you just needconnection. A weekly meet-up, a group class, even virtual book clubs can be a great way to stayin 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 spiritenergized. That doesn’t mean you have to become a globetrotter. But stepping outside yourcomfort zone—even in small ways—can completely shift your mindset.
Sometimes, that means exploring your own backyard. Other times, it means considering adestination 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 ona 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 toyour memories—not just mileage.
And no, you’re not too old. You’re right on time.
Take Care of Yourself—Because You MatterIf you want your days to feel fuller, your energy and well-being have to be part of theconversation. That means keeping your body moving, your mind engaged, and your emotionalhealth in check.
Walk a little more. Stretch a little longer. Talk to someone when things feel heavy. Take naps ifyou need them. Eat food that makes you feel good. Don’t overcomplicate it—just take care ofthe 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 YouHere’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 yourskills, mentoring, volunteering—can bring a huge sense of purpose. It’s not about beingproductive for productivity’s sake. It’s about knowing your time, energy, and presence stillmatter.
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 BoldlyYou’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 newplaces. It might mean joining a cause, writing a book, or just deciding that your happiness isreason enough to do something new.
Whatever “remarkable” looks like for you—it’s not too late. It’s right now.
One Last ThoughtYou 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*

4am monday morning routine as a content creator and adjunct professor before the 9 to 5 job

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! 

8 best mental health and rehab centers reviewed 2025

 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/ 
Legacy Healing CenterLegacy 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 TucsonSierra 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 MalibuCliffside 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 CentersAmerican 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 HospitalMcLean 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 FoundationGateway 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 InstituteMount 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 HopeValley 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

Center

Key Strengths

Locations

Specialty Focus

Legacy Healing Center

Luxury rehab, full range of programs

CA, OH, NJ

Detox, inpatient, outpatient, aftercare

Sierra Tucson

Holistic and wellness focus

Arizona

Addiction, trauma, whole person care

Cliffside Malibu

Luxury setting with evidence based care

California

Addiction, mental health

American Addiction Centers

Nationwide reach and variety

Multiple states

Inpatient, outpatient, telehealth

McLean Hospital

Psychiatric expertise and dual focus

Massachusetts

Mental health and addiction

Gateway Foundation

Nonprofit, community based care

Illinois

Inpatient and outpatient

Mount Sinai Institute

Hospital resources and oversight

New York

Detox, dual diagnosis

Valley Hope

Family focus and long history

Midwest

12 step, inpatient, outpatient

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*

friday favorites- september 26th

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... Simple Thoughts for My Students This Week... First, I am So Sorry...
Travel Posts... My New Favorite Travel Charger I have Ever Had Ibis Budget Paris Porte D'Orleans Hotel Review /Paris, France Fall Bucket List for the Lake Champlain Region (New York and Vermont) Home From Virginia 9 Must Have Experiences Aboard the Viking Delling / Viking River Cruise (France)

Teachers Pay Teachers... The Guide to Online Banking (Teachers Pay Teachers Resource) 9 Free Fall Activities (Teachers Pay Teachers Resource)

how to keep your home in tip-top shape year-round

  P exels
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 OftenOne 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 AwayLike 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 AppealKeep 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. 
ConclusionThese 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*

simple reflections on welcoming fall if you are hurting

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.

home from virginia

  After nearly a week in Virginia, I was so happy to see this view as we approached landing in Burlington, grateful and thankful to arrive home Wednesday. Instead of blogging while I was away I decided to take a break but am thankful to be back with y'all in this space.  If we are connected on IG I shared that there has been some very personal things behind the scenes that took place about 6 weeks ago that have been incredibly painful and this time away for this work event gave me some small amounts of time to think and process a few items. I am approaching fall, like many of us I am sure, a bit tenderly and just taking one day and moment at a time. 
I hope you have a wonderful weekend friends! Happy Saturday!

simple thoughts for my students this week...first i am so sorry

The following is a letter that I sent to my students this morning and wanted to share with this community as I have been asked numerous times for my thoughts on the events of this past week...
If you would like to watch a reel about this you can click HERE !
Dear students, I wish that I had some "great" words that could address and heal the events of these last days. I have been honestly speechless at things that have taken place across our country and our world and I weep for this season in time that you are experiencing. As a New Yorker approaching the anniversary of September 11th, this week always hits a bit harder, but the shocking shootings of Charlie Kirk and Evergreen School (and numerous other difficult items in the last week) has left this week with a heaviness that I know we all will not soon move on from. 
And it appears that things just continue... even yesterday, there was a class of mine that was in a lockdown bringing things even closer to home. And while there are many thoughts, emotions, words, and feelings that people have expressed on social media, the news, in conversations at the grocery store, at the gas station, at Starbucks, and everywhere you go... I have felt at a loss of words. 
How does one address the events of the past week in a concise and "neatly tied bow"? How do we approach circumstances like this that can make us question not only how these things can happen but why they are happening. 
I don't want to add to the "noise" of all that you are hearing, reading and processing, but I do as your Professor want to say a few simple things to you that I shared with the class yesterday that experienced the lockdown. 
First, I want to say how sorry I am. I don't see or hear a lot of people saying that, so first I want to say that to you. I am  SO  sorry that my generation couldn't get this right for you and that you live in the world that you do right now. I am sorry that you have inherited a world where violence, shootings, death, and fear is now the normal part of the stories that you see. I am so sorry that you have to think about going to school or an event on a college campus. These places should be safe and sacred and so I am so very sorry.
Second, it seems trivial to say to people "I am praying for you" in these types of circumstances... when things appear so dark and difficult and with little hope that the violence and possible fear you maybe experiencing will change in our world. I would agree that it sounds trivial but because I do believe in prayer, I want to share three specific things I am praying for you: 
1. I pray that you have a safe space to process the events of this week - especially as you look to graduate and attend college in the coming year. Hearing that things happen on a high school campus (Colorado yesterday and numerous things prior to that) is frightening enough- but hearing that same violence possibly continues into the next stage of life into college or grad school can be difficult to process. So my first prayer is that you have a safe place to process all of the events of this week. 
2. I pray that any fear is removed. Fear of the future. Fear of the "what ifs". Fear of speaking out for what you believe in or think. Fear of ideas. Fear of disagreements. Fear that college won't be as fun as you imagined. Fear that whatever year you find yourself in school/college will be marked by tragedy after tragedy. Fear of .... (insert whatever you are fearful of right now). I pray that fear is removed. During some of my dark and difficult days a verse that has brought me great comfort for fear is from Isaiah 35:4: "Tell those who are terrified, be brave, and don't be afraid. Your God will come... He will come and rescue you." So I pray that the fear is replaced with a steadiness that God is with you in these fearful moments and can handle all of the big questions and fears you have.
3. I pray that you will move boldly into the present and future that God has for you. In the event and death of Charlie Kirk, the Colorado School Shooting, the anniversary of 9/11, and so many other things it can be tempting to withdraw. Withdraw into hiding. Withdraw into numbing out through Netflix or other things. Withdraw from everything- but I am praying the opposite for you. I am praying that you move boldly into the present days of this year and then the future God has for you with courage. Each of you have a special plan and special gifts that the Lord has given you. I am confident that He has many good things in store for you and has unique stories He is writing for each of you (Psalm 138:8). I know I mention this when I introduce myself in the classes but I KNOW and am confident that you can and have the opportunity to change the world. I am cheering you on as our so many others. Our generation may not have been able to set the foundation that we dreamed (yet), but you have the opportunity to become one of the greatest generations and contradictions in History- the generation that wasn't known for the violence but for something completely different. 
Each of you are in my prayers today and in the days ahead. I confidently and joyfully look forward to seeing you become all that God has in mind for you to be (Romans 5:2). If there is anything that I can ever do- please do not hesitate to reach out...
Warmly, 
Professor VanDeMark