The Morning 5 Checklists are now available on Etsy. Checkout the suite of color options and varieties for little ones and chores.

As 2024 comes to a close, I’m sharing a nostalgic reflection from my childhood—one that might just spark the revival of a beloved family tradition and inspire connections for the next generation of Schell cousins.

This Christmas felt different—quieter, slower, and filled with reflection. In the absence of my beloved father-in-law, we honored his memory through thoughtful, handmade gifts that brought comfort and connection. From shared family traditions to moments of gratitude, this post reflects on the love and magic that make the holidays truly meaningful.

Discover how a dreaded chore turned into a meaningful family tradition of giving. This simple act of sharing backyard pecans sparked joy, connection, and a new way to give during the holidays. Read the full story and get inspired to start your own tradition of connection.

Are you a weaver at heart? In this post, I explore the beauty of life’s interconnectedness and the magic of turning sparks of ideas, relationships, and experiences into a vibrant tapestry. Inspired by conversations, personal reflection, and the hummingbird as a symbol of cross-pollination, this post invites you to pause and consider the threads weaving through your life. From navigating unexpected challenges (like a concussion!) to rediscovering my purpose, this piece is about trusting the process, embracing creativity, and finding joy in the art of connection. Discover what it means to be a weaver and let your sparks light the way!

Feeling overwhelmed by the chaos of December? Flip the script on the “busy season” and rediscover the joy of holiday magic with this simple tradition: a colorful, visual holiday calendar. Designed to help kids feel grounded and excited, this festive tool transforms the season from over-scheduled to magical. Whether it’s planning recitals, Zoo Lights, or gingerbread houses, this tradition curates moments of connection, wonder, and joy for the whole family. Learn how a few markers and some paper can make December unforgettable.

The Morning 5 is exactly what is sounds like—a short checklist of five tasks my kids do every morning before school. Think of it as a bite-sized morning routine designed to help them feel accomplished and ready for the day, while keeping our stress levels at bay.

The Morning 5 is a game-changer for stress-free school mornings!

My whole life I’ve had a plan and a clear path. I was getting dopamine hits with every new business win and rung climbed on the corporate ladder. I was also feeling an incredible surge of energy to give back to the community.

As I dug deep to understand this uneasiness and started to explore what a career pivot would look like, I ran across this beautiful quote from Elizabeth Gilbert about the hummingbird.

If you are a parent planning a trip overseas, visiting Italy with your kiddos, or a mom looking for packing inspiration to get everything into carry-ons (yesssss, girrl! YOU can do it!), you’ve found the right place!

This is our Family Italian Summer Vacation recap. A free download of our 14-day itinerary, our favorite spots and family tips from Rome, Milan, and The Dolomites.

What I packed for a family of four for a 14-day trip to Italy in carry-ons only. I share the 5-4-3-2-1 rule, packing tips and other travel MVPs for family travel.

Especially in my agency days when everything felt like lightening-pace and mission-critical, I was often guilty of the "I'll be out for a week BUT will skim emails daily” vacation.

Having spent about a year and a half consulting and being in control of my own calendar (AND having clients and teams who value well-being, with acute care for social well-being), it was time to truly take a vacation. Unplugged.

You know the feeling. An idea hits you. You can’t shake it. It consumes you. It excites you. You can’t stop. It won’t stop.

I have stories waiting to be told. They don’t fit into a box, a precise category. Perhaps this place is more for me than for you — to capture my thoughts and feelings, a digital diary of sorts.

A place to share stories, super powers, tips & tricks from my path.

A mash-up of career, family, travel, and life from one human’s perspective.

A place to be brave, vulnerable, and try something new.

A place to shine.