Hi, I’m Karen, a wife, mom, stepmom, and proud dog mom living just outside Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Life hasn’t always been easy. But every challenge has shaped me into the woman I am today.
My kids are now grown. For many years, my life was centered around care giving. This was especially true while raising a child with Cystic Fibrosis. This shaped much of who I am today and taught me resilience in ways I never expected. Alongside that journey, I also live with ADHD as an adult, which brings its own set of challenges and perspectives that I carry into everything I do. I grew up with a dad who struggled with addiction but loved me deeply. My mom worked hard to earn her teaching degree while raising our family. These experiences taught me perseverance and hope.
Part of my journey today includes physical and occupational therapy several times a week. It reminds me that resilience isn’t a one-time victory. It’s a daily choice to keep showing up.
When I’m not writing, you’ll find me with a book in hand. I love making colorful spreadsheets (yes, they make me happy!). I also enjoy creating new printables for my Etsy shop and tending my little garden. One of my favorite joys is taking long drives with my husband. Those drives bring peace, laughter, and inspiration.
I started this blog because I know what it feels like to be knocked down. I also know the struggle of wondering how you’ll ever get back up again. If you’ve felt overwhelmed by life’s struggles, battled health challenges, cared for someone else, or wrestled with ADHD, you’re in the right place.
My hope is simple: when you read my words, you feel understood, supported, and a little less alone.
Hi, I’m Christine, Karen’s favorite sister. Originally from the Pacific Northwest, now living in Europe. My personal journey has taught me that life often demands strength, sometimes more than we feel we have. Like most, I’ve faced significant challenges that tested my core strength. Oddly enough, I’m grateful for those tough moments; the lessons they taught me about resilience are priceless. For me, true resilience isn’t about perfection or pretending everything is fine. It is found in the simple, courageous act of saying, “It is okay to not be okay.” It’s about being honest about the struggle and letting that vulnerability become the starting point for healing.
When I step away from the keyboard, you’ll most likely find me out in nature, playing video games (not at the same time, though that would be amazing), listening to music, and enjoying coffee. I am most fulfilled when spending time with loved ones and getting a good night’s sleep…I absolutely need my sleep! Personally, I find healing in the balance of being active and being lazy. These small moments of joy and quiet time help me recharge and remind me that healing is a daily, deliberate act.
A big purpose of this blog is we want you to know, if you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, exhausted, or like you just can’t measure up, you are welcome here. Our hope is to offer words that validate your struggles and support your commitment to simply keep showing up, one messy day at a time.