I just returned from two magical weeks in Maine, my favorite place, where we celebrated the most special wedding of all - - 

my daughter’s, held at her childhood summer camp. 

The days were filled with family, friends, and unforgettable moments.

What surprised me most was how much joy I found in the pre-wedding “DIY” projects … the very things that had worried me the most beforehand. 

I’d pictured stress, endless to-dos, and projects going sideways. 

Instead, painting signs, labeling rocks, folding napkins with fern fronds (from two ferns that traveled from my porch to Maine and back again!), and making more floral arrangements than I can count turned out to be sooo fun and even grounding. 

One of the highlights? My 65-year-old bachelor cousin carefully tucking fern fronds into place settings - it was proof that everyone can get into the spirit when you’re working side by side.

As wonderful as it was to soak up every moment, it’s also nice to be back home, shifting into what fall will look like. 

For me, that means resetting after two weeks of late nights, too much ice cream, and maybe more wine than I’d normally have (though I’m convinced all the laughter canceled that out!).

What’s the most important thing you can do for your health?

I had a coaching session earlier this week, and my client asked me this exact question.

My answer?

Be mindful.
Be aware in the moment.
Be conscious of the decisions you're making.

Because here’s the truth:

Our health is shaped by the thousands of tiny choices we make each week.

Each decision—what you eat, how you move, when you rest, what you prioritize—has the power to move you toward greater health or nudge you back toward illness.

One helpful visual I often share is the Illness–Wellness Continuum, developed by Dr. John Travis back in the 1970s. It’s a simple model, but incredibly powerful.

We live in a world that’s designed to keep us comfortable - and constantly entertained.

- Hungry? There’s a delivery app for that.
- Cold? A heated blanket is one click away.
- Bored? Just pick up your phone, and within seconds you’re scrolling, watching, shopping, or playing.

We’ve removed friction from nearly every part of our lives. 

And in many ways, that’s a marvel of modern living. But in doing so, we’ve also erased some of the most beautiful, messy, and deeply human experiences that come from discomfort.

Especially boredom.

As parents, we often feel pressure to keep our kids occupied and “happy” at all times. 

Screens become the default. Activities are scheduled down to the minute. But what if we’ve taken it too far?