I can hardly believe it’s been so long since my last newsletter & blog post. But, as fate would have it, another birthday came around to spark the creative juices. As I celebrate turning 43, I've been reflecting on some valuable lessons and takeaways from the past year. And, of course, I want to share them with you!
Btw, we're excited to share a sneak peek into our Etsy shop, Outdoorsyish Life. What started as an idea inspired by the Texas Big Star race has grown into a collection of t-shirts and gear for anyone who loves to run, hike, and enjoy the outdoors— we're just getting started—more to come! Take a peek, we would love to hear your thoughts...💭
XO, Jules 😘
📖 What I'm Reading...
🗒️ Blog - Always Someplace to Go This piece about On Athletics Club coach Dathan Ritzenhein and his “long fix” coaching philosophy hit home. It’s a great reminder that true success doesn’t come from pushing too hard or too fast—it’s about long-term health and sustainability. Dathan’s approach isn’t just about making athletes stronger; it’s about helping them thrive over the long haul, as people and athletes. Highly recommend giving it a read!
📚 Book - Happy Place (Emily Henry) I just finished reading Happy Place by Emily Henry, and wow—her writing is so visually rich, every scene practically jumps off the page. The way she captures emotions and settings is just beautiful. Plus, as a Hope College grad myself, it was extra special to see a fellow alumna become such a hit!
💻 Article - What Is Quiet Travel? Do you find you need a vacation after your so-called vacation? Me too! As much as I enjoy exploring new places, I find the most memorable & enjoyable trips have been the relaxed ones - like exploring nature and hiking with my hubby! The quieter, simpler travel trends are taking over.... and I'm getting on board 🤗
📚Article - 99 Exercises for Self-Discovery Self-discovery is a journey. This article provides 99 ideas to explore who you are and how you can tap into your full potential. Ready for the challenge? (My favorite is #11: What does “home” mean to you emotionally, physically, and mentally?)
📸 Pic of the Month ….
We had an amazing week in Newport Beach and made a day trip to L.A. to visit Warner Bros. Studios... If you know me, you know how much I love FRIENDS! Where have you been traveling this summer? We're always on the lookout for new places to explore. Send your ideas!
FRIENDS Set @ Warner Bros. Studios
🤔 Food For Thought
Sometimes, it’s easy to get lost in the hustle of daily life. This week, focus on finding peace in the chaos. Remember, not everything has to be “perfectly balanced.” Let’s give ourselves permission to rest when needed, focus when we can, and embrace the quiet rhythms of life.
💗 Quote I’m loving…
Things turn out best for the people who make the best of the way things turn out.
— John Wooden
💭 Final thoughts
What we feed grows. Every tiny choice we make—where we place our attention, the thoughts we let loop in our minds—becomes the soil for what blooms next.
So if you’ve been feeling off lately, try asking yourself: What am I feeding right now? And if the answer doesn’t feel aligned, just gently shift. Choose something nourishing, even if it’s tiny. It all adds up.
XO, jules 😘
👀 Below the Fold:
Update: I finished writing my 100-day Devotional! Now, I'm working to self-publish (using Reedsy to draft the manuscript). Any tips?
#SimonSays Jules & Paul @ Martha's Vineyard I blinked, and its mid August. Where did the summer go? We've been on the move -- traveling, entertaining, and making the most of the long summer days. While I love our friends and family dearly, sometimes I need to remind myself that it's okay to feel overwhelmed by all this socialization and step back. I work hard to keep balance and boundaries, but sometimes I feel guilty. Aren't I supposed to be generous? Am I rude if I say no to this? Shouldn't...
#SimonSays... Hey there... Coming at you from 35,000 feet -- Yes, we've been jet-set the last few weeks, which has been awesome, but my inner homebody is screaming out! Which reminds me, I recently wrote a blog that resonated with MANY of you. I couldn't believe all the calls, texts and emails I received from friends saying, 'Wow, that's me too? (thanks for those, btw!) If you haven't had the chance, give it a read: IT TOOK ME 40 YEARS & SEVERE BURNOUT TO REALIZE I WAS AN INTROVERTED...
#SimonSays... Hey there... Okay, waaaait, wait, wait, can time slow down for a sec? ✋ How can it be Fall already? With the change of seasons, one thing I've been thinking about lately is how we often think that something "far off" will make us happy. We think traveling to a new place, getting a different job or meeting someone new will make us happy. But happiness will always be withheld if you believe it is somewhere else. Somewhere in the future.... The secret is to find joy in the people...
