If there is one thing you will learn quickly once you start sourdough, it’s this:

Everybody has an opinion.

Actually… everybody has lots of opinions.

You’ll find people saying you absolutely NEED expensive equipment, people saying your dough should look a certain way, people insisting there is only one “right” method, and at least one person online who somehow makes sourdough look effortless while shaping a perfect loaf with acrylic nails and a white shirt on.

Meanwhile, the rest of us are over here with flour on our pants and starter dried onto the counter for the third day in a row.

This post is not me claiming to know everything about sourdough baking, because honestly? I don’t think anyone does. I’m still learning constantly, and I probably always will be. That’s part of what I actually love about sourdough — there is always something new to learn, tweak, test, or completely mess up and try again later.

What works for one person might not work for another. Your climate matters. Your flour matters. Your kitchen matters. Your schedule matters. Even your water can matter.

This is simply what works for me in my kitchen.

These are the tools I personally use, what I actually reach for regularly, and the things I think make sourdough less intimidating for beginners.

And before someone says it…

Yes, our grandmothers could eyeball ingredients.

But they also learned through years and years of experience. A beginner trying to “just feel it out” usually ends up frustrated because they don’t know what they’re looking for yet, so they ultimately quit.

Learn the basics first. Learn accuracy first. Then experiment later.

That’s why I firmly believe in kitchen scales. They take so much guesswork out of sourdough, especially when you’re new and already wondering if your dough is too wet, too dry, underproofed, overproofed, or personally offended by your existence. Some days I think it’s the later.

Sourdough can feel overwhelming at first, but I promise it gets easier.

If I can figure it out, so can you. Because I’ve been there. I’ve worn the shoes.

My Sourdough Philosophy

I like accuracy, but I also like realism.

I love the idea of perfection, but my loaves usually come out rustic, uneven, flour-covered, and honestly? I’m learning to love that more than store-bought perfection anyway.

Sourdough has taught me that homemade things are not supposed to look factory-made.

And sometimes the “ugly” loaf tastes the best.

I’m also a big believer in learning as you go. I don’t think you need every gadget on the market before you start baking bread. Half the time, my best tool is literally my hands.

And the other half of the time, it’s coffee.

Meet My Starter: Snoop Dough

My sourdough starter is named Snoop Dough.

I wish I could say I came up with that myself, but a friend of mine named it when she gave me some starter, and honestly, the name stuck immediately.

At this point, Snoop Dough has become part of the kitchen.

I even bought the little “Snoop on the Stoop” figure and the Snoop Dogg cookbook because apparently, once you name your starter, you just fully commit to the bit.

No regrets.

My Most-Used Sourdough Tools

Kitchen Scale

This is a bit controversial, but if I could only recommend ONE thing to a beginner, it would probably be a digital kitchen scale.

Not because measuring cups are evil. Not because you can’t eventually learn by feel.

But because consistency matters when you’re learning.

A scale helps you understand hydration, dough texture, ratios, and repeatability. If you make an amazing loaf, you actually know how to recreate it instead of standing in the kitchen going:

“I’m pretty sure I added… flour?”

And trust me, I say that from experience.

Starter Jars

I mostly use mason jars for my starter, because they’re simple, affordable, and easy to clean.

My favorite is actually a half-gallon Anchor jar with straight sides. Straight-sided jars are SO much easier for tracking starter growth.

I also love my Weck jars, although I have absolutely overfilled smaller jars before and basically created a sourdough volcano situation.

At least twice, I’ve managed to stick starter to my kitchen wall.

So maybe don’t fill your jars quite as enthusiastically as I do.

Mixing Bowls

I am not loyal to one specific bowl. (Same mixer, 2 different bowls)

If a bowl speaks to me, I use it.

I have:

• KitchenAid bowls
• Pyrex bowls
• porcelain bowls
• random bowls I’ve collected over time

Honestly, if it can hold dough, it has potential.

One of my KitchenAid glass bowls literally fell off the counter while attached to the mixer and somehow survived, so points to KitchenAid for that honestly.

My Dutch Ovens

I regularly bake in:

• a Lodge 6qt Dutch oven
• a Le Creuset 7qt Dutch oven
• and a Gotham Steel lightweight enameled Dutch oven

And before anyone asks…

No, you do not need the most expensive option to make good sourdough.

Good bread can come out of a budget Dutch oven too.

Sourdough is a process, and honestly, so is learning how you bake best.

You do not need a perfect kitchen, expensive tools, or years of experience to start.

You just need patience, practice, and probably a bench scraper.

And maybe paper towels.

Definitely paper towels.

In Part 2, I’ll share more of my favorite tools, beginner tips, and the things I’ve learned the hard way so hopefully you don’t have to.

And yes, Snoop Dough will absolutely make another appearance.

So let’s make it real-life simple.

Say your recipe calls for:

• 100g starter
• 500g flour

That means you’re using 20% starter. Easy.

Now… let’s say you got a little chaotic (we’ve all been there), didn’t measure right, or just decided “more starter = better, right?” and you used 250g starter instead.

Congrats, you just jumped to 50% starter.

So what actually changes? A lot, but nothing scary.

1. Fermentation time (aka how fast this dough is gonna move)

• 20% starter: Slow and steady. Think 4–8 hours for bulk. This is your “I’ll deal with you later” dough. Great for overnight, less babysitting.
• 50% starter: This dough is in a HURRY. 2–4 hours and it’s like “hello?? I’m ready???”
  Perfect if you want bread today, but you do have to pay attention.

If your kitchen runs warm, 50% can go from perfect to “oops” real quick.

2. Flavor (aka how sour are we getting here)

• 20% starter: More time = more tang = more personality. This is your classic sourdough flavor.
• 50% starter: Faster process = milder flavor. Still good, just less punchy.

If you love that bakery-style tang, stick with 20%.
If you’re feeding picky eaters (or yourself on a “not-too-sour” day), 50% is your friend.

3. Dough handling (aka is this gonna fight me or not)

• 20% starter: Nice and cooperative. Gluten stays stronger longer, easier to stretch, fold, shape without wanting to throw it across the kitchen.
• 50% starter: Things can get a little… sticky and dramatic if you let it go too long. The dough breaks down faster.

20% = forgiving
50% = “watch me closely or I will ruin your day”

4. Final bread (the part we actually care about)

• 20% starter: Open crumb, crusty crust, lasts longer. Basically your “look what I made” loaf.
• 50% starter: Softer, a little denser, less crusty. More of an everyday, sandwich-type vibe.

Real-life tips (because we’re not baking in a lab here)

• 20% uses less starter (your jar will thank you)
• 50% is great if your starter is super active and you want to use it up
• If you’re unsure → start with 20% and then play around

For reference with 500g flour:

• 20% = 100g starter
• 50% = 250g starter

Bottom line:

• 20% = slower, tangier, more control
• 50% = faster, milder, a little more “watch this closely” energy

Neither is wrong—it just depends on your mood, your schedule, and how chaotic you’re feeling that day

And that’s it. Hopefully this makes it all feel a lot less intimidating and a lot more doable.

From Southwest Missouri to Salem: Packing for Fall’s Witchy Wonderland

If you’re heading from Southwest Missouri to Salem, Massachusetts around Halloween, you’re in for a treat — and a temperature shock. While we’re still mowing lawns and wearing hoodies in the morning but shorts by afternoon back home, Salem’s already deep into sweater weather, with sea air, mist, and Halloween magic swirling through the streets.

I’m traveling from Southwest Missouri to Salem this fall, and after hours of researching “what to pack for Salem,” here’s everything I learned that’ll help you prepare without overpacking.

1. Know the Weather Before You Go

Late October and early November in Salem is nothing like Southwest Missouri’s fall days. Expect crisp mornings, damp air, and ocean winds that cut right through you.

Honestly, this is the kind of weather my husband loves — not me. He thrives in that cool, brisk air, while I’m the one bundled up like I’m trekking across the Arctic. If you’re like me and prefer a mild 65° Missouri fall day, you’ll definitely want to pack extra layers, gloves, and maybe even a blanket scarf you can wrap up in.

Typical temps that week:

• Highs: 55–60 °F

• Lows: 40–45 °F

• Rain: Very possible — October averages nearly 4 inches of rainfall

Salem’s chill isn’t unbearable, but it’s the kind that sneaks up on you — especially once the sun goes down and the wind picks up off the harbor.

Tip: Plan your outfits around layers — light base, cozy middle, and a jacket you can zip up tight when that New England wind hits.

And if you’re anything like my daughter, you hate that word “layers.” I’m pretty sure she’s allergic to it or something. We go through that at home, too — those Missouri days where it’s in the 50s when you leave the house, 75 or 80 by the afternoon, and back in the 60s by sunset. So, yes… layers are annoying. But in Salem, they’re survival.

Photo Idea: A flat lay of cozy sweaters and boots labeled “What to pack for Salem in late October.”

2. Midwest Traveler’s Packing List for Salem, MA

Clothing

When it comes to packing for Salem, think cozy layers and comfy classics. It’s not the time to reinvent your wardrobe — it’s about staying warm, dry, and ready for whatever the New England weather decides to do that hour.

• 2–3 long-sleeve base layers or thermal shirts

• 1–2 warm sweaters or fleece pullovers

• 1 medium-weight coat (preferably waterproof or wind-resistant)

• 1 light raincoat or poncho — Salem drizzle is no joke

• 2 pairs of jeans or thick leggings

• 1 pair of comfy pants or joggers for travel (if that’s what you prefer — I’m a jeans girl myself. I know I’m in the minority here!)

• Scarf, hat, and gloves — you’ll need them at least one night

• Warm pajamas — those old New England inns can get chilly

• Extra socks (go for wool or thermal)

• Comfortable walking shoes or waterproof boots — your feet will thank you

And if I’m being honest… I really just want to look like Lorelai Gilmore strolling through Stars Hollow — coffee in hand, scarf just right, sweater game on point. Cozy but still cute. If that’s the aesthetic, you’re doing Salem right.

Accessories & Must-Haves

You’ll be walking a lot — exploring cobblestone streets, ghost tours, and probably darting in and out of little shops — so keep things light and practical. But seriously, make sure you have really good walking shoes. Preferably waterproof. If not, at least pack an extra pair of socks in your bag! Nothing ruins a day faster than cold, soggy feet.

• Compact umbrella — My daughter will be thrilled I’m finally packing one. Now we just have to figure out what she did with all of ours.

• Crossbody bag or small backpack — Hands-free for cider, photos, and maybe a witchy souvenir or two.

• Reusable water bottle — It just makes good sense.

• Chapstick & moisturizer — Ocean air = dry skin (and no one wants chapped lips in vacation photos).

• Portable phone charger — Ghost tours are hard on batteries.

• First-aid kit — Because Band-Aids always come in handy, especially if you’re wearing new shoes. (Hopefully you’re not!)

• Flashlight or headlamp — Perfect for ghost tours or late-night walks through Salem’s older neighborhoods.

• A costume piece or Salem-inspired accessory — Especially if you’re there for Halloween week.

• Camera or your phone — whichever you’ll actually use! Trust me, I’ll be using both.

3. Outfit Ideas by Day

4. Missouri Tips That Apply in Massachusetts

• Rain gear beats cute outfits. A wet witch hat is no fun.
• Wind is colder by the coast. A light jacket won’t cut it at night.
• Layer everything. Weather swings fast.
• Plan to walk. Downtown Salem is best seen on foot.
• Bring a tote bag. You’ll want room for souvenirs (and fudge!).

There were rumors that the house had hidden treasure, so she and the guy she eventually married (yes, it was a romance of sorts) started digging through the attic to see if they could find the “treasure.” One of the treasures happened to be old love letters. She commented then that our children and grandchildren won’t get to see our old love letters due to emails and texts. Wow! That hit the nail right on the head. 

Honestly, I have thought about this before, but seeing it written by someone else just really made me have a WOW moment. People don’t just sit down and write letters these days. I’m also reading a book series that takes place back in the early 1800s. There are things about that series, too, that make me think about this whole writing aspect. 

Nowadays, if you have a quick message you want to convey to someone, you shoot them a text, pick up the phone and call them, or even email them, but back then, they would “drop notes” to the person who needed to know. If you lived in town, you could probably convey that message fairly quickly, but if you lived out of town, it was probably days before the message was delivered. In fact, in one of the books in the series, the guy made it to a house before the message ever arrived to inform him. He went for her to bring her home, she penned that she was staying with her brother and sister in law to help take care of her sick nephew. They had had a misunderstanding before she left, so he went to clear up the unresolved issue, and he passed the message without even knowing that she would eventually come back.

I also recently read a news article that addressed how the postal service was a private entity that was governed by the government, and that they were going to make some changes that, honestly, I’m not sure I agree with. Now, I’m just one person, so if I were to throw a fit, they’d tell me σώπα (pronounced sopa, which translates to “be quiet” or “shut up”). A few more people get involved, and then you make a difference. But that part is neither here nor there with what I’m actually trying to say. 

Have you actually sat down and taken time to read old letters? They are kind of fun. Especially knowing that times were different. Back when my husband and I were first dating, we stumbled across a Note Notebook between my friends and me. We’d buy a notebook, write each other a note, and send it off to the next class with them. It was definitely easier to read in class and write back because you looked like you were just taking notes. There were no pretty folds or anything like that. It was kind of fun. Well, I still have one of them, oddly enough. 

Let’s just say we had fun sitting around one rainy afternoon reading the notes of a then 10th grader. It did get a little embarrassing when my friends called me out for liking my husband. I didn’t want to admit it. Then something happened, and a friend said his b—- must not have dropped because his voice was too high. My retort was to say that I cut them off and took them home, bronzed them, and they were hanging on my wall. See, fun things that 10th graders come up with. When we read that, I turned every shade of red imaginable. Of course, he looked at me with his devilish grin and said, Hmmm, I knew something was up. oy!

To this day, 16 years later, he still teases me every once in a while about that. Some things maybe should just stay in the past, but that’s neither here nor there… well, it might be there, in that notebook. There was actually also a letter between him and me where he asked me out on a date. My parents said I couldn’t date until I was 16, and at the time, I was just 15. I didn’t know how to ask if I could go, but it didn’t matter because he came back the next week with a girlfriend. At that point, I waved the white surrender flag and backed off. Oh well, 10 years later we wound up dating anyway, and I finally got that first date.

All of this to really say, maybe we should bring back the art form of writing letters. I mean, we’re bringing back vinyl records and record players and the 80’s fashions are trying to rear their ugly head, which by the way, they definitely should have stayed in the 80s! So why not bring back the art form of letter writing? It is definitely more fun to receive a letter in the mail from a friend than to receive yet another bill to pay. Adulting is no fun!

That’s the average. For some people, it’s obviously longer, and for others, it’s shorter. I’m not sure where I fall into that category, but it’d be interesting to know. It’d also be interesting to know where they got that information and if it is correct. 

Just this morning, I think I walked around my house for 5 minutes looking for my video and photos drive. I could remember seeing it, but I couldn’t actually remember where. Then, about the time I was almost ready to give up, I looked at the couch where I had been sitting, and as my dad would say, “If it’d been a snake, it would bite you.” Yup, it was right on the console by my left arm. Then I remember the last time I made note of that was yesterday when I was annoyed with myself that they were a) there and b) not with my laptop or desktop, but I was too lazy to get up and put them where they belong. Sounds familiar, doesn’t it?

Fine, new scenario… Saturday was my daughter’s dance recital. My uncle and his farm hand came up to help out doing some things around here, but we told him we’d be kind of useless on Saturday because her first recital was at 3 pm. Around 1:30, I called my husband and told him that he and the oldest needed to head this direction so they could shower and get ready. He told me they were looking for the oldest’s wallet. I asked a few questions, then he said they were headed to the house (from my parents’ house). The oldest dropped him off and went back to their house to look for her wallet. I told him I’d go help her. 

When I got there, I felt like I was asking stupid questions. What does your wallet look like? When did you last have it? Are you sure you put it in Grandpa’s truck? Did you take it out at the feed store? When you got back with the feed, did you touch it? I mean, very basic, but almost silly questions, but sometimes those questions help you figure it out. We did, in fact, find the wallet. It was stuck between the console and the passenger side seat. Based on the answers, I just had a gut feeling the wallet was in the truck. Which is funny because 2-3 people had searched the truck already at least 2-3 times. And my dad would be the first to tell you, if I were looking for something, I probably wouldn’t find it. 

I laugh at the funnies when people say the woman will find something the man can’t. At my house, it tends to be the opposite. I don’t know why that is. 

I once read another story by a blogger where she discussed that when she’s looking for something, she asks God to help her find it. I’m not always sure if that works or not. Maybe God sends my husband in to find it as my answer. Something to ponder.

In the olden days, I wasn’t so good at like Easter Egg hunts either. My grandma loved to hide easter eggs for my cousin and me to find. Being the younger one (1 year, 1 month, 3 days), I figured she found things better because she was older. Truth be told, I probably just suck at finding things. I can, however, find things, sometimes, that aren’t mine. Like if someone else is looking for something (read the wallet story above), I tend to find that stuff, just not mine. Strange how that works. 

And now I have gone down the rabbit hole of trying to find that post where she was talking about praying to God to find things. Oy. Guess I should stop here before I get sucked in even deeper and my Monday is lost. 

The more I think about it, I think I learned some of these “characteristics” from my dad. He would do things like that to me growing up. Trust me, if my friends were there, we rolled our eyes just like my daughter and my niece do to me now. But it was fun, lighthearted, and kept things interesting.

The other day, I was texting one of these said friends, and she commented that I needed to write a poem like I did when we were kids. I can’t even remember what we decided the poem needed to be about, it was just the simple fact that I needed to write a poem about it. My dad once told me that when he was in school (can’t remember what grade), his teacher would assign the whole class a new paper every Friday due the following Monday. He said, sometimes it was difficult, but it caused him to become a good writer. Truth be told, the poems we wrote as kids, my dad usually helped me out on when I got stuck.

I once wrote a poem that got published. It was about a trip my cousin and I took to the zoo. Now here’s the real kicker, it was totally made up because my cousin and I NEVER went to the zoo together. The closest thing to going to a zoo together was the summer my grandparents, aunt and uncle, grandma’s cousin, my cousin, and I went to Charleston, South Carolina, to see my grandpa’s “brother.” We stopped somewhere in North Carolina at a “zoo” of sorts, but not the kind that had monkeys, elephants, and giraffes, but the type that had reindeer, which I fed an apple. 

Let’s just say I was really excited about that zoo because I’d never seen a reindeer in real life. They’re cool! I also didn’t know they ate apples. But now we all know that reindeer will eat apples. 

Then my uncle told me a story once about a horse show he went to. The story revolved more around the trip home… whew, it was a doozy. So I was in a short story writing class and decided to write that story up. Now, my version had to be a lot longer than his. I wrote more words and got it almost to the point of turning it in, then I needed my dad to step in and give me some guided assistance to make that 2,000-word minimum. He gave me suggestions here and there, and by the time it was said and done, I was closer to about 4,000 words. Not bad. I’m fairly certain I got an A on that paper. I should see if I can find it somewhere and share it sometime. Also, because I made some of it up to make that 2,000-word minimum, there was a lot of embellishment, but that year I printed it off and put it under the Christmas tree for my uncle :). Merry Christmas.

I guess the more I think about it, the more I realize that it’s interesting that I wound up with a writing degree. I’ve always quite enjoyed writing, but I’ve also gotten bad cases of writer’s block. It was really bad in grad school when I had to write 20 pages about “The Rape of the Lock” by Alexander Pope” or the time that I had to proof read a book and give examples of how to make better changes. Oh, that paper had to be 20 pages as well, so that meant I had to really examine the book closely, and it had to be a long book, or I had to be long-winded. Would you like an even better story about that particular paper?

Okay, so the professor came up to me 2 weeks before the end of the semester, when the workload was already heavy getting ready for finals, final papers, etc, and told me, Oh, I forgot to tell you I needed this paper by the end of the semester. I just about had a heart attack. Somewhere, I had a list of everything I still had to do by the end of the semester, and it was a long list. I stumble across it every year about this time in TimeHop. I sat down one Friday afternoon and by Sunday afternoon (pretty much nonstop throughout the weekend) I wrote a 20-page paper scrutinizing that book, so that Monday I could walk in and turn in that paper and cross that “to do” off my list. I had that teacher twice a week every week that semester, so the next class period, she walked up, gave me the paper back, I got a B (which I gladly took), and then said, I misread what I needed for you, and I really didn’t need this paper. I thought I was going to cry. 

Turns out, I had her the next semester for a class, and it was that class she needed the paper for. She told me this on the first day of class. She also told me that since I wrote it the previous semester, as long as I was good with the grade I got, I didn’t have to rewrite it, but if I wanted to revise for a better grade, I could and resubmit. I told her I was fine with a B. I got an A in both classes, by the way.

Grad school always kept me on my toes. First and foremost, most people, when they go after their master’s, get it in something related to their bachelor’s field of study. Honestly, why would I do that? My bachelor’s degree is in Agricultural Education, 9-12. Yes, I have a teaching degree. So why wouldn’t I get a Master’s degree from the English department? I mean that makes perfect sense, right? Sure, it does. I told you, I love to write. Well, turns out I had grown a fondness for reading over the years between the time I graduated with my bachelor’s and the time I went back after my master’s. Good thing, because when you get a degree from the English department, there is a lot of reading involved. More so than writing, it felt like. 

Oddly enough, they looked at my transcript and thought I only needed 5 classes before I could enter the master’s program. There was British Literature 1 and 2, American Literature, a writing class with Dr. Meats, and there was a 5th one, but I can’t remember what it was now. So I could take a mixture of those 5 classes, which were all undergrad classes, and Master’s classes, but I had to have all my undergrad courses done before I hit 12 hours in the graduate program. The first semester I was admitted to the program, the school decided to do away with that particular master’s program; however, since I was already admitted into it, I got to graduate with that degree. I was also the only one who was in that master’s program at the time, and I got “grandfathered” in. 

Another story for another time, but it seems like all the way through school, I always had things like this happen. Kept me on my toes if nothing else.

So here we are, 1315 words as of this sentence. Why does that matter? Who knows. I guess I feel like I should wrap this up, but I feel like there is a big cliffhanger also, haha. Maybe the moral of the story is, I love to write, and so here I am, writing on this blog yet again.

I will leave you with this one last thought… I mentioned that my bachelor’s degree is in Agriculture Education and my master’s is in Technical and Professional Writing. Once I was asked, What are you going to do with those two degrees? My answer, “I’m going to eloquently pen about cows, sows, and plows.”

Wow, a lot has changed since I started this blog. But I’ll let you in on a little secret… a lot has changed in the past year. And we’re only 5 months into this year. It’s been quite the whirlwind, and I just don’t even think I have the words. I love to write. I love to talk. I am shy (sometimes), but gosh words are eluding me right now. I wish I could get the words out. I wish they would come from somewhere, but right now I am just going day to day, one foot in front of the other.

Talking to a friend yesterday, she pointed out what I kind of already knew and just chose not to think about, and that is the fact that my 40s haven’t been playing nice. Truthfully, if I think back on it, my 30s were a little bit rude when I first started them, but I ended on a fairly high note.

I tend to be a pretty, well, I don’t want to say naive, I don’t want to say upbeat, I don’t want to say positive… But for lack of better words, I tend to try and see the good in all situations. Sometimes it’s hard to find, and here lately I’ve had to look really hard and have totally missed the mark. I really hate it when people are vague. It drives me nuts, and sadly, I’m being fairly vague right now, but again, I just don’t have the words. It’s not that I’m trying to be vague… It’s just how do you wrap up the last like 2 months into words… I haven’t figured it out yet.

So for now, while I try to formulate words, let’s look at the positive because there is some… Not that any of it has to do with the last 2 months of tragic sadness, but… I’m going to Greece! Not any time soon… 2 years, 2 months, and a few days. The exact dates aren’t set in stone yet. The website said we would know 90 days out, the lady who is leading our group said 45 days, so let’s just put it this way, in about 2 years and 2 monthish I’ll know when I’m going. haha!

So it is through my daughter’s school, but it is not a school-sanctioned trip. What does that mean exactly? Well, the lady leading it is a teacher, and it was opened up to students of the school and family members. We get to make monthly payments instead of having to fork up the money all at once, and we are going in 2 years, 2 months, and a few days. It’s super exciting and I can’t wait.

My great-grandfather came to this country from Greece in the 20s. Sadly, I don’t know the exact time frame. He came through Ellis Island. He and his family had no money in Greece and came to the US to find the freedoms that were afforded to Americans. Then he moved to Michigan, met my great-grandmother, got married, had 2 kids, came down with pneumonia, and died when my grandma was 5. This was just a couple of years before Penisilian got its FDA approval to be used to treat people.

When he came to this country, he changed his name. He wanted to be American and thought his name sounded too foreign. My grandma and my great uncle were 1/2 Greek. My great uncle went on to marry a full blood Greek woman, and changed his last name back to his father’s original name. My grandma went on to marry my grandpa, which made my mom and aunt 1/4 Greek. My mom married my dad, and I come in at a whoppin 1/8th Greek. I seriously hoped that more Greek was lurking in my DNA, but there isn’t. Bummer!

Anyway, I have wanted to go to Greece for… gosh, longer than my mom can recall. So when the school put out this flier for a trip to Greece, man my daughter (who also wants to go to Greece) and I were on it. At the meeting they explained that we had 2 years to pay for it, all students and family members who were willing to pay for it could go, they wanted (well initially they said 35, not it sounds like 40) enough people to sign up so that we could have a private tour, and then, we’re headed to Greece!

It seems so far away, yet so close. It’s also sad to think my daughter will be going into 8th grade that fall (we go in the summer) by the time this trip happens. Oh, and days are long but years are short. I’m telling you, we’re already in May. How on earth did that happen? I mean, I basically lost the month of April, but whatever, another story for another day…

But that’s all the news for now… I broke my lawnmower yesterday. My husband fixed it when he got home last night (yey), so now I get to go mow the lawn. Wish me luck!

A Missouri Girl’s Guide to Warm-Weather Adventures (and Escaping the Winter Blahs)

If you live in Southwest Missouri, you know February isn’t exactly “pool weather.” It’s that time of year when we’re all dreaming of sunshine, saltwater, and not scraping ice or snow off of our windshields.

So when a cruise to Costa Maya (hello, Mayan ruins!) and Cozumel (Playa Mia Beach Park, I see you) popped up on our radar, I started packing the same way I always do — with about five too many outfits and a weather app open on repeat.

Now, I have lost 30 plus pounds, so that required a whole new wardrobe.

Here’s everything I learned planning this trip — what to bring, what to skip, and how to actually enjoy the sun without overthinking your suitcase.

1. Know What the Weather Feels Like in February

You might think “Mexico in February = sweltering heat,” but it’s actually perfect. Expect:

• Highs: mid-80s °F (around 29°C)

• Lows: low-70s °F (22°C)

• Water temp: warm enough to swim (or in my case Stand) comfortably

• Rain: possible but short-lived tropical showers

Basically: sunshine, with a side of humidity. So it’s time to swap your hoodies for sundresses and remember what your toes look like again.

Tip: Don’t let the breeze fool you on the ship — it can feel cool up on deck, even when it’s warm in port. Layers still matter, just different ones!

2. Clothing: Keep It Light, Comfy, and Salt-Splash-Approved

• 2–3 swimsuits (one drying, one wearing, one backup)

• 2–3 cover-ups — think breezy and quick-dry

• 3–4 casual daytime outfits (shorts, tanks, sundresses)

• 1–2 evening outfits (cruise dinners or shows — cute but not formal)

• 1 light sweater or jean jacket for cool evenings or air-conditioned dining areas

• Sandals or flip-flops for the pool and beach

• Comfy walking shoes for excursions (like the Mayan ruins!)

• Sun hat or ball cap

• Light rain jacket — tropical showers happen fast

• Lightweight jacket – It can get cool. Be prepared
• Jeans – At least for Demarkation Day and possibly on arrival day. It’s still cold in the US, even in southern Texas.

If I could pack with one goal in mind, it’s “I want to look like I belong on a travel postcard, not a weather warning.” Think easy, flowy, colorful — and don’t forget the sunscreen that matches. No one has time to be a lobster.

3. Accessories & Must-Haves

• Sunscreen (reef-safe, SPF 50 or higher. Again, no one has time to be a lobster.)

• Aloe vera or after-sun lotion — (because we all forget once. You are closer to the equator after all)

• Bug spray — (especially for the ruins and jungle areas)

• Sunglasses (bring a backup pair too!)

• Sun hat or visor or ball cap

• Waterproof phone pouch — (Playa Mia has slides and snorkeling)

• Portable charger

• Small first-aid kit — motion sickness bands, Advil, Band-Aids

• Reusable water bottle — (hydration is your best friend… Now this can be hit and miss because you can buy drink packages on board and only their cups will run the fountain, but it’s perfect for days off the ship. Just ask your room attendant for ice.)

• Beach bag or tote (for port days… Think light and packable)

• Passport & travel documents (and copies stored separately)

Mom Tip: Bring ziplock bags! They’re magic for wet swimsuits, sandy flip-flops, and keeping phones dry on excursions.

4. Excursion-Ready Outfits

Costa Maya (Mayan Ruins & Cultural Tour)

Wear something breathable — it’s warm and you’ll be walking a lot.

• Shorts or light linen pants

• Tank top, moisture-wicking shirt, or light colored shirt

• Hat, sunglasses, bug spray, sunscreen

• Comfy shoes (no flip-flops!)

Real-life note: The ruins are incredible — but it’s dusty, uneven ground. Save the cute sandals for dinner.

Cozumel (Playa Mia Beach Day)

Time to relax!

• Swimsuit + cover-up

• Flip-flops

• Sunglasses, Sunscreen

• Waterproof phone pouch

• Cash for drinks and tips

• Note: The Ship provides you with towels that you turn back in when you board again.

There’s snorkeling, paddleboats, slides, and beach chairs galore — you’ll want to be ready to play and get wet, not babysit your outfit.

5. Cruise Cabin & Ship Must-Haves

Cruise cabins are cozy (read: small), so pack smart:

• Magnetic hooks (walls are metal — instant storage!)

• Refillable cup or tumbler for water and coffee

• Foldable laundry bag

• Motion sickness bands or Meclazine

Special Note for CPAP or Medical Needs:
If you or your travel partner use a CPAP machine or need distilled water, contact your cruise line ahead of time. Most ships will provide both an approved extension cord and distilled water for free so you don’t have to lug them from home. They’ll have it waiting in your stateroom when you board — one less thing to worry about! (and they won’t let you bring your own extension cord.)

Pro Tip: Keep a small “grab-and-go” bag ready for port days — sunscreen, towel, cash, ID, and cruise card. You’ll use it every single day.

6. Things You Can Leave at Home

• Heels (trust me, the ship moves)

• Hair dryer (they have them onboard)

• Beach towels (most ships provide them)

• Heavy sweaters (save the suitcase space)

7. Final Thoughts from a Southwest Missouri Traveler

Packing for a February cruise from cold Missouri to sunny Mexico is the ultimate mood boost. It’s like swapping gray skies for turquoise water and remembering what warmth feels like.

Don’t overthink it — keep it simple, light, and comfortable.
Bring clothes you actually like wearing, shoes that don’t hurt, and enough SPF to protect a small village.

And when you’re standing on deck, watching the sun dip into the Caribbean Sea while everyone back home is scraping ice off their windshields… you’ll know you packed exactly right.

Otherwise, I found this list the other day titled 31 Things to Add to Your January Bucket List. It intrigued me, so I had to read it. A few of the items left me scratching my head, but the rest—okay, I’ll buy them. If you want to read their description, click the link here. Otherwise, here is my take on their list.

31 Things to Add to Your January Bucket List

1. Create a Vision Board 
   • I’ve honestly never been a vision board kind of girl. I think the closest I come to a vision board is Pinterest and does that even count? I mean a lot of people plan their weddings on Pinterest. Pinterest wasn’t really a thing when I was getting married. It was just getting its hype… it came out in March 2010. At that point, I had been engaged for about half a month and my wedding was that fall.
2. Experiment with the best non-alcoholic drinks
   • My massage therapist told my husband and me about adding tart cherry juice to 7-up before bed and it’s supposed to make you sleep better than melatonin. Is it that good? I don’t know. Did it make us sleep well, yes. Can we have it since doing Keto, nope. Bummer. I can also tell you that if you have the Keto flu, just down an electrolyte packet and you will feel much better. It’s oddly satisfying.
3. Find your new favorite workout
   • Okay, this is where I fail. I hate working out. It’s not on my list of faves. I really want to start building muscle, but again, It’s January, it’s cold out (1˚F this morning), and I feel like hybernating.
4. Cook your way through “our” favorite soups
   • I went and looked through their soups. Some sound good, some don’t. I think you get that with everything. Here lately at our house, we’ve had Zuppa Toscana (keto-friendly even) and tomato soup on rotation.
5. Tidy up your digital space
   • Ooooo, don’t look at my desk area. If they are referring to my computer, it’s not too shabby.  My desk area though, I can’t even get to my desktop right now, thank goodness I have a laptop.
   • I did go back and look this up, what she meant was your desktop. Get rid of old files, apps you don’t need, etc. Start fresh.
6. Send a handwritten card.
   • Once upon a time I had penpals, like way back in the day. A lot of them I now have as friends on Facebook. Kind of fun how that all goes. I went from handwritten letters to them to emails, and now we just comment on or like posts. Strange how life changes. It’s also sad that people don’t send mail much anymore, but I have to say, I’ve been very disappointed with the post office lately. I have a package that was coming from a town that takes less than 30 minutes to drive to that is sitting in Des Moines, Iowa (6 hours from here). I had a second package coming from the same place that sat in Kansas City for over a week. What gives?
7. Get a head start on Spring Cleaning
   • I signed up just before January 1 to do this cleaning thing with Kathryn {Do It on a Dime}. I had higher hopes than the support I’ve gotten, but I’m not giving up yet. 
8. Reassess your wardrobe
   • Y’all, I’ve had to, a lot of my clothes are big, but here’s one thing that I’ve done recently. I turned all the hangers around. If I wear the item in a given period of time (6 months) then it stays. If it hasn’t been turned around, I need to a) get rid of it totally or b) seriously question why. Some things in my closet are a one time of year wear…
9. Get your healthy eating back on track
   • So I’ve been on a plateau with my weight now for over a month. It is a little gut-wrenching. When you are trying and nothing is happening. I’ve bounced around the same 4ish pounds now for over a month. It makes me always want to throw my hands up in the air and say screw it. Please, someone, keep me going. I am… but gosh.
10. Buy yourself flowers
    • Does seeds count? I’m sooooo ready to start planting plants again. In fact, I burned off my garden a couple of weeks ago. I wish it would have burned more and I’ll probably try some more, but it felt awesome.
11. Join a book club
    • I really want to do this. Just saying.
12. Revamp your morning routine
    • I’m trying. I always feel more put together when my hair is done. I’m not sure if I like curls or straight better, or sometimes let my natural curls fly. Yup, my hair is semi-naturally curly. It’s a strange, odd combination honestly. In the last couple of years the front that used to be kinky curly is starting to relax and it’s weird getting used to that.
13. Rediscover your love for smoothies
    • I don’t think rediscover works for me. While yes I like a good Beach Bum with Dark Chocolate from Tropical Smoothie Cafe, I’m not really a smoothie type person. 
14. Learn something new
    • So I have a subscription to Craftsy and I have a subscription to MasterClass. I really want to learn something new, but gosh… Oh and I really really want to learn Spanish (helpful where I live plus where I vacation) and Greek. I have some Greek in me and want to visit there sooooooooo bad. What is the best way to learn these languages? Seriously man.
15. Create a regular catch-up routine
    • Her definition of catch-up routine is with loved ones both family and friends. I agree, everyone should.
16. Subscribe to a few favorite magazines
    • Ok, so this one threw me for a loop. Do people still order magazines? I say that and then I have to say I have a subscription to one, Bake from Scratch Magazine. While they do have an online version, I prefer the hard copy of that magazine. Otherwise, those are the only magazines I get anymore.
17. Cross off that project that’s been on your list forever
    • So right now, a project that has been on our list forever is the outside of my house. I’ve had a green house for friggin ever, but that’s because we’ve been residing, new windows, and a new roof. The hold-up is we were going to add on as well, but there is rumor that the interstate is going to expand and if it does, that will take out our house. If it does that, why spend the money to add on? Yes, it could get us more money in the end when our house gets bought, but is the time and energy worth it? The plan is set to start this year and I wish that they would just go ahead and quit being so coy about it.
18. Create a reading goal
    • I have one of those. It’s over on Good Reads. If you have any good book recommendations, please send my way. I’m currently reading Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling by Matthew Dicks
19. Plan a girl’s night
    • A friend of mine and I have discussed that… Jody, let’s get on that.
20. Make a DIY winter decoration
    • I don’t know if I want to. I don’t like winter. I made a Valentine’s Day door decoration about 14 years ago because of the winter. Does that count?
21. Make your favorite warm beverage
    • I’m not sure I have one. Hot Chocolate is a take it or leave it thing for me, however I have found a Keto Hot Chocolate recipe that I want to try. Especially since my daughter loves hot chocolate so I could drink it with her.
22. Take a long walk through your city
    • I live in the country so that would require me to drive to town to take a very cold walk. We’re in the middle of an artic blast right now and really, our city isn’t made for “walks.” I guess I’ll go walk the dogs.
23. Make a list of acts of kindness you want to try every week
    • This would be an awesome idea. I should get on that.
24. Learn a new hand-lettering technique
    • Would that require me to write a handwritten letter?
25. Have a board game night
    • So we’ve been playing Scrabble, Harry Potter Monopoly, and while this isn’t a board game, we’ve been playing a lot of Rummy and Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza.  If you haven’t played Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza, get on that like yesterday! It’s amazing.
26. Create a list-a-day journal
    • I like bullet journals. It’s a lot like having a to-do list. I like those. I also like bullet blog posts.
27. Make homemade bread
    • Sure for the gal who is doing keto. Yes, I know, you all know I’m doing Keto. ha. I did find a recipe for Keto bread that is supposed to be like real bread. I’ll have to try that and see how good it really is. I’m a carb girl after all.
28. Practice better sleep hygeine
    • We got a sleep number bed a year ago. For the most part, I like it. Some days I hate it. If I’m mad at it, I yell at it in the middle of the night. I might be around for comic relief. But after trips and sleeping on crappy beds, I really love my bed. I also feel that way about my pillows too. I have a love-hate relationship with them. I love to hate them sometimes. Some days they are soooooo hard that I get frustrated and other nights they are amazing. If I can take my pillows on trips, you better believe I will.
29. Dive into all things manifestation
    • She has a manifestation guide to help you get all the things you ever dreamed of… or something like that. I haven’t read this guide yet. I’ll get back with you.
30. Find things you love about winter
    • I hate winter. It’s cold, I’m cold, my hands are freezing. I’m over my free trial of winter. Bring on summer. Oh yeah, I get to go on a Caribbean cruise next month. Let’s go.
31. Get started on your Valentine’s Day cards
    • I don’t even mail out Christmas cards, why would I send out Valentine’s Day cards? Maybe for that lettering thing… Anyway, this year on Valentine’s Day I get to get my hair highlighted. Then we’re going to have a yummy dinner at one of my favorite restaurants. It’s Mediterranean. Mmmm. Here is your less than one-month warning… Valentine’s Day is on Friday this year. If you plan to go out for Valentine’s Day, start making those reservations now before it all fills up and you are left wanting.

And there you have it… My take on 31 things to do to make January not so drab. Now I’m off to the fire to try and warm up. Wish me luck!

I started this year sick as a dog. But it was just me… no one in my house got it. How do I know, other than they weren’t sick because I was around them. I mean, I have a cup that I carry around with me all the time and my family would grab it and drink from it. So whatever I had wasn’t contagious. I would suggest to them not to drink after me, but they would. It wasn’t a cold… oh no, it was something internal pipe-related. Haha… I’ll just leave it at that. I’m not 100% sure I’m over it, but we’re getting better every day. At one point I figured it was the Keto Flu. I had all the symptoms and oh yeah, I’m kind of doing Keto. I’m Keto adjacent as I like to call it. Or Keto/low carb. I’ve lost 36lbs. I still haven’t felt like sharing that on my FB page with people I know. I’m not sure why. I do have people I know on Instagram and I shared it there, but… I don’t have nearly as many people I know on Instagram as I do on my personal Facebook page. 

My husband and I started this in July, so we’ve been doing it for about 6 months. I’ve been more strict than he has because hello, I’m a woman in my 40’s and he’s a dude. Not fair, but anyway it is what it is. By the way, he’s lost 40lbs. I’m so proud of him! He’s doing amazing and not to break my arm patting myself on the back, but I feel like I am too. We have a cruise coming up and quite honestly, I’d like to drop down into the next 10lb bracket, but I’m afraid I’m just made to live in the 10lb bracket I’m in because I’ve been here for about a month now. I’m getting close to the weight I was before having my little girl 10 years ago, however, I’m not sure what my end goal is. I just keep setting small goals. One of my “rewards” for hitting a goal was I got a new denim jacket. I could have bought it, but I just really wanted to “earn” it and I did. I honestly can’t tell you where it is right now. haha. Christmas kind of threw up in my house and I’m just now getting it back in order. That means I’ll find the jacket, eventually.

I bought a thing online to help me get my house back in order. I’m kind of frustrated with it because it isn’t what I thought it was going to be… but give it time and actually try, I hope it works! Oh yeah, I also have a YouTube channel. I have had it for years technically but never did anything with it. Then all the sudden one day in like 2022 maybe I started. I wasn’t what you would call consistent, and technically I’m still not, but I try. I only have 263 followers as of checking yesterday. I really wanted to be at 300 by the new year, but I didn’t get there. I’ve heard people aren’t following YouTube channels like they once were. I’m always a day late and a dollar short to things. Oh well.

One last thing… I saw an article talking about How to Create a Vision for the Life You Want to Live and it asked 9 questions. Technically there are only 7 questions with 2 prompts, but I wanted to put them here.

1. Write down your Mantra: Be Present
2. What does your dream life look like? Traveling the world.
3. How do you want to feel this year? Satisfied.
4. When are you happiest? On vacation with my family.
5. Where do you want to go this year? 
   • On a Cruise (booked)
   • Ft. Worth, TX (looking like twice)
   • Either on another cruise OR Out west
6. Who are the people in your life you want to prioritize? My family and then friends. They are so precious to me.
7. What books do you want to read this year?
   • I set a goal on Good Reads for 19. So far I’ve finished 2
     • The Recovery Agent by Janet Evanovich
     • The Third Gilmore Girl by Kelly Bishop
   • Actively reading
     • Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling by Matthew Dicks
   • Need to finish finally:
     • Finish Line Faith 2 Timothy by Matt Proctor
     • The Man Who Ate Everything by Jeffrey Steingarten
     • Cooking for Mr. Latte: A Food Lovers Courtship with Recipes by Amanda Hesser
     • Save the Cat! Writes a Novel by Jessica Brody
   • I have waiting for me to read:
     • Worthy: How to Believe You are Enough and Transform Your Life by Jamie Kern Lima
     • The Artist’s Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity by Julia Cameron
     • And a few on Audiobooks because I can listen to them when I’m driving.
8. What’s one thing you want to learn this year? A foreign Language. I kind of have it down to Greek (yikes) and Spanish (helpful, especially around here)
9. Create a Vision Board. I suck at these

So hopefully at the end of the year we can see how I did, especially because it is in writing (or typing) and it is out there for the whole world to see and keep me accountable. We’ll see how that works

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