Tag: life

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From Las Vegas to New Jersey

Posted on by Distracted Damsel
Daily writing prompt
Think back on your most memorable road trip.
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This one is an easy one for me. Almost 15 years ago, my sister and I took a 2 week road trip across country and I could definitely do it again. I was moving back east for college and I wanted to do something fun. We planned a route on a paper map (yes paper) and planned and found some interesting stops along the way.

We are very random when it comes to what keeps our interest. There are famous places along the way and just nonsense. Ill break these down.

Salt Palace in Salt Lake Utah.

Old Faithful in Yellowstone

Crazy Horse Memorial Sioux Falls in South Dakota -we saw Rushmore too.

Pizza Doctors in La Crosse WI- we did see the worlds largest six pack but I cant find the image 🙂

Palace #2 Corn place made somewhere in the midwest

And Lambeau Field

We have taken other road trips since but this one sticks in my head. We had a plan and a timeline but we hit random places as they came up. We got rained out of a camping site on one of the days, but mom had stuffed a visa in the glove box that covered the hotel.

We also camped over night in a teepee, found the most random store with a million teddy bears for a collection, hit mall of America, went to the Rock n Roll hall of fame and picked up my cousin in Michigan.

I really hope that sooner or later we will plan and take another one. There are many road still to take and places in the US that I want to visit. If you have some worlds largest, or killer places to stop to eat, or great views, Drop them here. I will add to the possibilities list!!

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Seems to me its running out

Posted on by Distracted Damsel
Daily writing prompt
Do you need time?
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I cant seem to get a handle on the way time is flying by. We are at the bottom innings of 2025 and I feel like I am one run behind the winning team. I’m not much of a baseball fan unless I am sitting in the stadium but I hope that metaphor makes enough sense.

I am t-minus 9 days away from my 3rd and last vacation of the year and I am mentally and physically not ready for the much needed break. You see, I have been extra focused on not slowing down business because business is slow. That might sound weird but some companies lay of the gas for the fourth quarter while others double down. I am doubling down on my marketing efforts so that business is still coming in and it springs forward come 2025. Slow times are great for system and strategy building, refocusing etc.

This week, 5 out of 7 days have color consults. I am up from two a week to five. New ads on yelp and facebook, google and even instagram have been gaining momentum. I am only looking at those four socials and I am finding the time it takes even with AI is hard for me. I have list of ideas and minutes to get things up between meetings, school pick ups and parents having surgeries. I need much more time to keep the momentum going with new inspiration and real time talk. Oh yeah and sleep. Its important but Im not getting much lately.

I havent hit all my goals for October, that just ended. Or the ones that I am working towards for end of year. I see Christmas approaching so fast and I cant seem to get past work to enjoy the things that are coming up. At the bare minimum I plan to turn business off for one week of rest and day drinking on a cruise. And then as we get closer to Dec 25th a family cookie night.

If any one has found a way to slow time down, please, please, please let me know. I am doing my best to do one thing at a time and focus on one day at a time. Enjoying the fun times with my nephew and enjoying the quiet times of reflection. But I legit cant wait to see bright blue clear waters and a bahama mamma in my hand. Hope time is working in your favor 🙂

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Curious, Smart and Funny

Posted on by Distracted Damsel
Daily writing prompt
Describe a family member.
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There’s this cool kid that I know. He’s the best nephew anyone could have and I get to spend three days a week with him. Sometimes those days are long or busy or even obnoxious but I wouldnt trade having him around while he thinks Im the fun Auntie.

Curious

This little dude has me on the ropes all the time. I never know what he is going to ask or want to do on the daily. He is super curious about everything, from owls to food to what I am doing for work. If he is interested in something he asks me to look up images or videos on youtube. This week the topics were Owls and and new ride he wants to go on at the pumpkin patch, the Zipper. He says it isnt for him yet but it will be when he is bigger. 🙂 Always more to learn.

Smart

Although we might not be the smartest of adults, we really try to teach Booger to think thru what he wants to do, how he does his homework, how he treats his friends. This kid isnt a genius mathematician but math is his favorite and hes getting really good at the harder word problems. He can read a room and chime in with our adult conversations, does get him in trouble sometimes but he listens and learns so much. I have watched him think through logically what order he wants to do chores, homework, dinner and bath time- and he gave me reasons for why the order. I forget sometimes that I am talking to a 7 year old because he talks so smart. And reading?! He has met his semester goal in two months and should really be reading at a 3rd or 4th grade level. Makes me proud.

Funny

There is no doubt that Booger has inherited our sense of humor and sarcasm. From the c’mon Bruhs to the dad jokes this kid cracks me up. He has an infectious giggle, the best when he cracks up at his own jokes. He pays around with us and has one liners that just hit right on queue. His little personality is so fun to watch and I really hope he keeps up the quick wit and the come backs.

I have other family around me. My parents, sister/brother in law and extended, all of which I love and enjoy their company. But for right now, seeing this little dude so proud of learning to ride a bike with no training wheels, crush his reading, enjoy being a kid, helping me with the instructions and bake together, well, that’s the fun part of my day. Hope you have a kid to watch, yours or a niece or nephew. We all need that kid life in big or little doses.

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I struggle with lazy days…

Posted on by Distracted Damsel
Daily writing prompt
Do lazy days make you feel rested or unproductive?
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Lazy days are 1000% a struggle for me. Sounds silly that being lazy would be a struggle but for someone who is constantly on the go with one thing or another, its hard to just be still. The thing I have to tell myself is there’s a difference between lazy and rest.

When I hear lazy, at least what I picture is me in worn pajamas, in a messy bed, some kind of fast food in hand and laundry piled up. May or may not have showered that day lol. Lazy to me means everything has stopped and the house is a mess, with no intention to clean or do anything. This type of lazy, unless I am sick, I just cant wrap my head around. I always feel guilty if Im not doing at least something. For sure I feel unproductive.

Now rest is different from lazy. This is what I try to do. Rest is needed for physical and mental health and we are all in short supply of those things lately. On my rest days, I dont try to do nothing but instead I try do do things that are relaxing and things that help me get recentered or refocused for the day or week. For example, I make it a point to read. It relaxes my mind and it can be a fictional journey or a self help motivation type book. If its in the budget Pedicures go a long way for relaxing too.

Then there are the things that I do to help me get rest for the week. I enjoy getting my laundry folded and put away. Its a simple chore that doesnt take much time or focus. I also cook with my family. Dual purpose because I of course need to eat but with family or friends some times I can enjoy company while I leave the regular stress of the wekk behind. If there is time, there is always a warm bubble bath calling my name to rest for the night.

Typing the words, I still have to tell myself that resting is ok and that some days are not going to be “productive”. But from experience I know that If I do not take a lazy day here or there I will burn out and be unproductive for sure. So I opt for little breaks, sometimes an hour outdoors to clear my mind, others its a full day of binge watching and organizing. Call it what you will but do your best not to feel that guilt that whispers to you when there are “more productive things you could be doing”. Whats important is that you recognize the need for a break and are giving yourself that time. And if you cant remember I hope you have someone like my boyfriend who always tells me I need time for myself. 🙂

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Self-care Reflections: What are yours??

Posted on by Distracted Damsel
Daily writing prompt
What details of your life could you pay more attention to?
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If you are anything like me, life seems to go non stop. From working three jobs, helping aging parents, helping with a nephew and trying to have some down time on vacations, there is never really a quiet moment. Schedules area always packed and things come up and we know we cant forget about cooking and eating dinner.

I have noticed lately that I have not been giving myself the same self care that I have had in the past. It sounds superficial but I have not been going for my haircuts or my pedicures. On a more physical level I have also not made it a priority to get my gym time in. Some days I hate the gym but I still feel accomplished when I drag myself there. lol

Being tired means alot of the little things just dont get done. The motivation or energy just isnt there. I have realized the list of things to do in a day isnt going to get smaller so instead I am just going to add a few more to this month to see if I can regain a bit of sanity. Laugh if you want but I dare you to make your own self care list. Here are my 5 things and reasons that I am making them priority.

  1. Lipstick and Mascara every day. – I am going to pick a few different colors that make me feel pretty and boss like. I dont have time in the mornings with getting ready for school to do a full routine. These two take less that 3 minutes and I will feel more ready for the day in my professional world.
  2. New Sheets. – Silly to buy something I already have but even your bed routine can get tired. We are coming into fall and I want to feel snuggly and comfy when I hit the pillow.
  3. One mid month Spa day.- yes one day can be spared to do a little self maintenance. Hair cut, facial, mani/pedi. Its a day to relax and you feel brand new to face the challenges.
  4. Two dinners with friends- With how busy I am lately, I only have had time with my nephew and close family. Not that there is anything wrong with that. But I dont get to just be me, to hear about life outside of my world, to laugh with others. It could be work friends, business minded friends or just my girl friends that I dont get hang with as we have crazy schedules.
  5. Flavored water- ok so maybe not a must have. I had some testing done recently and 2 of the issues with my bloodwork were b12 deficiency and dehydration. So I have been trying to water myself 🙂 I only like water with ice and it does nothing to quench the soda craving. So I am going to “splurge” on flavor packets. They can be refreshing.

I would love to hear what small things you would do through out the month to treat yourself better. not always just a splurge but something small that makes you happy or feel better. Leave your comments and thoughts here and maybe someone else will do something similar. Pay attention to the daily details that support you 🙂

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Seeing Joy in Others

Posted on by Distracted Damsel
Daily writing prompt
In what ways does hard work make you feel fulfilled?
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That may sound a bit weird but I believe that hard work is not only for ourselves to feel proud but also to aid and bring comfort to others. I have had my fair share of moments of accomplishment. When I have felt like queen of the mountain for completing a goal or doing something in business that I have never done before.

But I have also been with friends and family or customers that have been struggling personally or professionally and I have been able to work with them and achieve much more. I work hard for myself because I am driven and I want to be successful. However, I have always found more joy when I have eased the stress or answered a need for another.

For example, I am in the field everyday. I find clients and customers that struggle with selecting colors, flooring, finishing up projects that never seem to end. It can be overwhelming for them not knowing where to start or what the “right thing” is to do. I get the opportunity to work thru the process for them, shining light on the choices that matter first and work out the little details that they cant focus on.

Recently, two ladies came into the flooring store I work at part time. They said they had been in so many stores, talked to so many people but they still hadnt made any decisions. When I hear that, I have to help. It took us about 2 hours but I lead them through the process, pulling samples, talking trends and tips, talking colors and making final selections. They were so happy by the time we were done talking that I even got a hug because according to her “i had solved all of their headaches”.

Coming full circle today the ladies came back in the store for the next project. They were so excited to tell me about how the install was coming and that they were starting the next project. They said they would only work with me because I had done such a “fantastic job the first time”. Sounds like I am tooting my own horn a little bit. And in a way I kind of am. But seeing those ladies smile and getting another hug, and more words of praise is fulfillment to me.

I worked hard to give them my knowledge and my expertise which I have gained over the years. I worked hard to pull the selections and explain why they were the best materials and colors for their dream bathroom. I take pride in knowing that I did my best but the best part is knowing how happy my efforts made others. I am fulfilled if I am fulling 🙂

Posted in Design Elements, Lifestyle, Tips & Tricks

One Project at a Time..

Posted on by Distracted Damsel

The Power of Breaking It Down

Let’s be honest—transforming a home can feel a lot. Between Pinterest boards, paint swatches, and all the “what ifs,” it’s easy to end up overwhelmed before you even begin.

But here’s the truth: you don’t have to do it all at once.

In fact, taking it one step at a time is not only okay—it’s smart. Whether you’re working with a full-house refresh or just trying to make a few rooms feel more “you,” breaking things down into manageable steps can save your sanity (and your budget).

Start with What Matters Most

Instead of tackling the entire house in one go, focus on the areas that will make the biggest difference right away—think the entryway, living room, or kitchen. These are the spaces guests see first, but more importantly, they’re the ones you walk through every single day.

A fresh coat of paint in the entry or some updated lighting in the kitchen can make your whole home feel different—without touching every single room.

Room by Room, Floor by Floor

There’s no rule that says everything has to be done at once or even all in the same week (or month, or year!).

You might choose to move floor by floor—starting downstairs where the most traffic happens and working your way up when the time, budget, or energy allows. Even if you’re planning to use the same paint color throughout the house, it’s okay to spread it out.

Or maybe it makes more sense to go room by room. Especially if you’re still figuring out how each space will be used. Is that spare room going to be a guest room? A home office? A playroom? Taking your time gives you room to decide.

Make It Personal (and Functional)

The best transformations aren’t just pretty—they work for the people who live there. Before you commit to any big changes, think about the purpose of each room.

Who uses the space? What do you need it to do? What vibe are you going for?

Taking a beat to figure those things out will help you make choices you won’t regret later. Rushing into a design without a clear vision is often what leads to “I wish I had done it differently.”

Progress Is Still Progress

Remember: Rome wasn’t built in a day.

There’s absolutely no shame in doing things slowly. In fact, it often leads to better, more thoughtful results. Taking your time means you can make decisions with confidence, spread out expenses, and enjoy each win as it comes.

So if your home doesn’t feel “done” yet, that’s okay. It’s a work in progress—just like all the best things are.

Want help figuring out where to start? Let’s break it down together.
Sometimes all you need is a plan—and a little color guidance. 🎨

Posted in Lifestyle

Swimming Lessons for everyone

Posted on by Distracted Damsel

Is it really even summer if you havent been in the pool yet?

We had a long day today from work/summer camp and water leaks to shopping and Costco pizza for dinner. But I just couldn’t deny the nephew a quick hour trip to the pool. We made the bargain that if he was good while we shopped, we could go to the pool for a bit after dinner.

By the time we got there at 6, the sun was behind the apartments and it was pretty breezy. The determination of kids is mind boggling to me. Chattering teeth and all, the kid was bobbing up and down, splashing and throwing fill-able water balloons at me. He had to stay in the shallow end since we are still working on the full swimming thing.

I remember in summer camp that we all had to take swim lessons. Using the little paddle boards to get our feet kicking, and using floaties and life jackets to float and practice arms first then legs. It seems simple to float but learning to let go and just breath is tricky.

Its amazing to me to think about something that seems so simple as an adult. I dont think twice about swimming since I have been swimming for 30+ and I really enjoy it. Booger loves water and is just getting excited about swimming. As I was splashing with him and giving him instructions on how to paddle I realized how much each step is a metaphor for more.

At first, he hesitated, not wanting to go any deeper than where he could reach. We hesitate in life when we feel like something is out of our reach or we aren’t good enough, or smart enough. Once he realized that I was in the pool in case he needed me he got bolder. When we have a team or a support person that we can lean on, it is easier to test the waters.

I was holding him while letting him practice relaxing and letting go just to float. It takes practice to calm your nerves and relax, taking time to think and reflect. He wanted to squirm and kick but I reminded him that I had him, let him breathe and calm before we added in the arms and legs.

One reach and kick at a time, he started to get a groove. Arms like superman and kick kick kick. He didnt want me to hold him for very long. He told me “I’m going to swim to the wall and I’m gonna try it again.” The first attempt at anything in life isnt going to go the way you planned, you wont do it right or you might even fail. Just like he did you have to keep giving it a try.

By the end of the swim, which mind you was only about 45 minutes since its chilly, Booger was so proud of himself. I was watching him and he did have a good 5 ft stretch of good swimming. He turned around and said “Auntie, did you see how good I did?” And of course I did and I gave him a big smile, a hi-five and a “Great job buddy!”

Everyday we have to jump into new things and test the waters. Yes its scary at first. You dont know if you have what it takes to learn a new skill or start a new career, or try to sell crafts on etsy. Whatever it is, it will take practice, attempt after attempt until you get to a place where you can confidently do it like its second nature. Every stroke will make you a stronger swimmer. 😉

Ok so ill leave it there with the swimming metaphors. For those of you with younger kids in summer camp and swim lessons, any suggestions? We are going to practice as much as we can. He doesnt love getting water in his ears so we might have to get some ear plugs. We need new floaties but hopefully this will be the last summer for those 🙂 let me know if you have any tips!!