Hi friends!

July was such a sweet month. Over the Fourth of July, I had a little panic that summer was going to pass us by quickly if I wasn’t intentional. And I think we did that really well!

My mom came to visit for a few days, and we got to see Ann Patchett speak in Seattle. It was such a joyful night! 1000 readers gathered together to hear Ann speak about her latest release, Whistler. This was my second time hearing her in person, and she is just delightful. There is also something so special about gathering with other readers.

We have a new annual tradition for my mom’s summer trip: planting flowers on our deck and giving it a bit of a spring clean. Seattleites often say that summer doesn’t begin until the Fourth of July in the Pacific Northwest, and it’s very true. An early July deck clean was perfect timing for enjoying outdoor dinners without it raining on us.

We went blueberry picking, and I made it a goal to go to the beach at least once a week. Beach days are such a win for Reyna and me because she gets to play in the sand and I get to sit in the sun.

I read several beach reads in July because I really wanted to soak up as much of summer as I could. Sharing below everything that I read last month!

Theo of Golden by Allen Levi:

This book is about a man named Theo who moves to Golden, a small Southern town. The story follows his life in Golden and the many people he befriends. I read this with my book club and was a bit unsure about the writing, but I ended up loving the heart of the story. Theo is a character that stays with you. He pays attention to everyone around him and loves them intentionally. If you’re looking for a feel-good story, this is a great one to pick up.

Summerland Cove by Ellen Baker:

I was craving stories set by the ocean in July, so I picked up this book that I found from Modern Mrs. Darcy’s Summer Reading Guide. Summerland Cove is a family drama that follows Lindy, her daughter, and her mother. The family is gathering in Maine to celebrate Lindy’s husband's fiftieth birthday. When he doesn’t show up to the party for hours, everyone in the family has to face the fact that he is missing. As they search for him, they are forced to bring up decades of secrets. I wanted to love this and really enjoyed the audio narration, but the story fell a bit flat for me. I think the author wanted to tie everything together in the end, but it just made it feel unbelievable to me.

The Hotel Nantucket by Elin Hilderbrand:

I continued my beach books theme by listening to The Hotel Nantucket. I’ve had a tradition the last few years of reading an Elin Hilderbrand each summer, and it’s so fun. This book is about the staff running the newly renovated Hotel Nantucket. We get to see the perspective of several staff members, including the hotel’s resident ghost. I was apprehensive about that part, but I found it well done and so fun! This book is a classic Elin Hilderbrand: full of drama, good food descriptions, and will make you want to book a trip to Nantucket ASAP.

The Shampoo Effect by Jenny Jackson:

Okay, can you tell I couldn’t stop with the beach reads last month? This summer, I really wished I'd booked a trip to the East Coast, but I decided transporting myself with fun reads would have to do. The Shampoo Effect follows a group of friends in Massachusetts who have known each other since they were little. When one of their friends begins dating a woman outside their circle, it brings up lots of drama and relational conflict within the group. This book is the perfect beach read. It’s character-driven but feels unputdownable. I read most of it in a single afternoon while sitting on my deck!

The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion Volume IV by Beth Brower:

I have slowly been making my way through the Emma M. Lion series and each book gets more and more delightful! If you are looking for a cozy comfort read, this series is it! You have to read them in order so start with Volume I.

I am on such a crafting kick recently! In July, I focused mainly on a crochet baby blanket project that I’m working on for a friend. Her due date is quickly approaching, so I’m on a bit of a time crunch.

I’m also working my way through knitting my Sabai top. The goal was to have it ready to wear over the summer, but I think it will still work for warm days in September. I’m knitting it in a butter yellow cotton yarn.

Knitting and crocheting have taught me so much about patience and doing something simply for the joy of it. It is such a labor of love but also feels so good to create just for the sake of creating. Not to try and make money or do something perfectly. It is also the perfect hobby to accompany with an audiobook. I listened to The Hotel Nantucket and Summerland Cove in July while crocheting.

What have you been up to this summer? What books have you been reading?

Megan

Today I’m sharing 7 whimsical picture books that are perfect to read with your toddler or baby for the next few weeks of summer. Even if you don’t have kids, I’ve found that picture books are truly works of art. So while you may not run to place library holds on these books, I hope you keep reading and find a few new illustrators you love. This post is best enjoyed with an iced coffee and will hopefully leave you feeling quite peaceful after transporting you into the world of whimsical summery illustrations.

1. Jamberry written & illustrated by Bruce Degen: I am so obsessed with Jamberry that it was the theme of my daughter’s first birthday. This book is silly and fun and full of berries that will hopefully inspire your own berry-picking adventure.

   

   2. Mouse by the Sea written & illustrated by Alice Melvin: I saw Alice Melvin’s Mouse series for the first time in a small boutique and audibly gasped because I was so blown away by her art. You will discover some new delightful detail each time you pick up one of her books. They also have the most creative interactive flaps throughout that your child will love. I am so drawn to the lovely colors that she chooses; all of her work feels so peaceful.

   

   3. The Garden We Share by Zoe Tucker & illustrated by Julianna Swaney: One of our daily summer activities is watering our garden and checking on our zucchinis, cucumbers, and tomatoes. I love that I can continue to teach Reyna about gardening with this book. Julianna Swaney’s floral drawings are such a treat.

4. Hello Lighthouse written & illustrated by Sophie Blackall: Hello Lighthouse goes through all the seasons, but this is such a fun resource for teaching kids about lighthouses. It’s also stunning and an ode to how beautiful our daily rhythms can be.

   

   5. Summer Story written & illustrated by Jill Barklem: I think most people are familiar with Brambly Hedge, but I couldn’t go without mentioning this seasonal series. The ultimate cozy books and would make a great gift for a baby shower!

   

   6. Our Friendly Farmhouse by Melissa Ferguson & illustrated by Gretchen Ellen Powers: This is another book that doesn’t just focus on the summer, but the illustrations and farm scenes feel perfect for the season to me. A lot of summer days around here look like Reyna and me doing chores around the house, watering the garden, and walking to the park. I love that this book reflects the joy we can find in our simple everyday tasks.

   

   7. The Little Blue Cottage by Kelly Jordan & illustrated by Jessica Courtney-Tickle: Dreaming of moving into a little cottage by the sea. Jessica Courtney’s illustrations are so detailed and fun. I love how she captures the playfulness of childhood.

   

   I hope you enjoyed this post! I had so much fun putting it together. Let me know what books you’ve been reading with your kids below or if this introduced you to any new illustrators 💛

   Megan

   

It’s been a minute! Q2 ended up being the busiest season that our family has had in a while. We went on two international trips, my husband and I both had milestone birthdays (hello, 30s!), and we did a big 10-day family reunion. Most of my days are spent running around with Reyna, working, and trying to keep my home feeling semi-peaceful in the midst of all the travel.

When I had free time, I chose to knit or read, and Substack was something that I could take off my plate for the time being. But now I’m back, and I’ve already written a month’s worth of posts to share with you all!

Starting off today with a big catch-up on everything I read in May and June. Reading has been a lifeline for me in these busy days of motherhood and life. It makes me feel like myself when so much has changed since having Reyna. Even if it’s just a few pages a day, it feels so good to have a story to get lost in and do something for myself.

I read 10 books throughout May and June. Sharing all my thoughts below!

The Midnight Show by Lee Kelly and Jennifer Thorne: This book is about a fictional SNL called The Midnight Show. It follows the show’s original cast and how everything falls apart when their star cast member disappears. I really enjoyed this book! It’s told in an oral history format, and I know many books are compared to Daisy Jones and the Six, but I think this actually is a good comp! The audio is so well done, and it’s the perfect quick weekend read if you’re in a slump.

Good People by Patmeena Sabit: This is another great read if you’re in a reading slump! Good People begins with a police report about the Sharaf family. We know something tragic has occurred but don’t know the details. What follows is the events unfolding from the perspective of everyone in their community: their friends, neighbors, and others involved in the case. It is SO propulsive. A great book club pick! I would skip the blurb on this one and dive in not knowing much to avoid spoilers.

Celestial Lights by Cecil Pin: This is a quiet short novel about Ollie, an astronaut who is leading a 10-year mission in space. Because of how far they are traveling into space, they have no communication outside of their crew for years. I love the way Cecil Pin writes about ambition and the lengths we’ll go to achieve our ideas of success. What are we willing to sacrifice in order to achieve something great? And will it be worth it in the end? Cecil Pin’s writing is melancholy and beautiful.

This is the Story of a Happy Marriage by Ann Patchett: I turned 30 in May and decided that I wanted the first book I read in my 30’s to be by a favorite author, so I chose this backlist Ann Patchett that had been sitting on my shelf. I LOVE Ann’s essays. While we mostly know her for her excellent storytelling, she is also an exceptional essayist. There is a story in this collection about writing that I absolutely loved. It felt applicable to anyone pursuing a creative craft.

The Burning Side by Sarah Damoff: Sarah Damoff’s debut, The Bright Years, was so popular last year. I somehow missed it but was intrigued by her sophomore novel. April and Leo’s house burns down, leaving their world upturned. They have to move in with April’s parents, but what no one knows is that April and Leo were on the brink of divorce before they lost their house. I listened to this on audio and mostly enjoyed it. I liked the multiple perspectives and felt invested in the family, but there is an infidelity plotline that I didn’t love.

Go Gentle by Maria Semple: Maria Semple’s latest novel is about a woman named Adora. She is a Stoic philosopher and lives in New York City. There is a lot happening in the book: some romance, a heist, and a mystery? I wasn’t completely sold by the blurb but trusted that this book would be full of Maria Semple’s witty, sharp writing- and it was! It’s funny and goes in so many directions you’re not expecting.

This is Not About Us by Allegra Goodman: This book is an unexpected favorite of the year so far. This is my first Allegra Goodman book, and I fell in love with her writing and the Rubinstein family. This is a family story with each chapter following the perspective of a different member of the Rubinsteins. I wished this book was 100 pages longer and found myself thinking constantly about the Rubinsteins and what they might be up to. The true mark of a 5-star read! I read a lot of family stories, and sometimes they all start feeling the same. This book felt fresh and was such a relatable look into family life.

Whistler by Ann Patchett: I followed This is Not About Us up with another 5-star read, Ann Patchett’s latest! Everyone has been reading Whistler, so there is not much for me to add. This book is thoughtful, quiet, redemptive, and full of characters you’ll love. I love Ann Patchett’s dialogue and her characters shine in this novel. If you loved Tom Lake, you’ll love this!

Dolly All The Time by Annabel Monaghan: Annabel Monaghan is the queen of summer books! Dolly All The Time is a fake-dating rom-com that takes place in a small East Coast town. I loved the setting and, as with all of Annabel’s books, wanted to move to the East Coast immediately. If you haven’t read this summer rom-com yet, now is the time!

The Other Bennet Sister by Janice Hadlow: I was feeling fomo from everyone watching the new The Other Bennet Sister TV series, so I decided to pick this up. I listened to the audio and could not put it down! If you love Jane Austen or have been reading all of the Emma M. Lion books, I think this is for you! Janice Hadlow really brings Mary’s story to life, a character I didn’t know that I wanted to hear more from.

Summer reading is going strong over here; I’m hoping to soak up as much reading outside time as I can over the next month and a half before fall. How’s your summer reading going? What have been your favorite reads? Tell me below!

I know people are starting to talk about fall, but the summer isn’t over yet! If you’re looking for more summer reads, check out my summer reading guide ☀️ It’s full of 20 titles that I have read and loved.

Megan

Hello!

It’s that time of year, summer reading season is here! I’ve been thinking about what makes summer reading so special. As an avid reader, I’m excited about books all year long. But something about summer reading feels nostalgic. I distinctly remember going to the library with my mom and little brother over the summers. Getting a big stack of books and sitting in the grass with the sun shining down.

Now I mark the start of the season with summer reading guides, making a TBR, and putting lots of books on hold at my local library. I treasure going on a trip with a stack of books that I am so excited about. So much so that I mark a trip by what I read that year. Last June, I read The Correspondent while traveling on trains throughout England. Later in the summer, I had the flu over our yearly trip to the lake with my in-laws, but I still remember feeling a bit back to normal on our last day and curling up on the deck with Broken Country.

I guess you could say my warm-weather activity of choice is going somewhere outside with a matcha in hand and a few hours (or minutes in this toddler season) to myself with my book. That’s what makes summer feel special to me.

I’ve always wanted to make a summer reading guide. This year, I sat down and jotted down some titles to see if I could come up with enough to make my own. I was surprised how quickly they came to me and fell into categories. It shows that I have my summer reading preferences 😂 The guide consists of 20 books I have read and loved. All of them were 4-5 star reads for me. They’re split up into four categories: slow summer days, for an afternoon read, playful & romantic, and stay up way too late. A blend of character-driven books to take your time with, books under 300 pages, fun books when you want something lighter, and a few mysteries that also feel full of depth.

I also include a few thoughts on how I think about my own summer reading and the 2026 releases I’m excited about. I hope you enjoy this guide. That you’ll add some books to your TBR and that it gets you thinking about your summer reading life.

Get the guide here:

The Poppy And Paper Summer Reading Shelf

6.02MB ∙ PDF file

Download

Download

Let me know what books you’re excited about below!

Megan

Hello!

April was such a whirlwind for our family because we were out of town in Europe for two weeks! I have lots to share, but I’ll save most of it for another post all about our trip. We started April with a visit from my family for Easter weekend. My parents and godparents came to stay with us. My godparents are both in their late 70s and don’t travel very often. They also haven’t been to our home in Seattle, so this was a special trip!

We wanted them to get a glimpse of our daily life, so we took them to all of our go-to places. Our favorite coffee shop and the park down the street that Reyna loves. We rode a ferry across the water to a little restaurant with the best Detroit-style pizza. It was a rare, warm spring weekend, so we lounged around outside while Reyna played in the yard. We spent Easter at our church, and our family got to meet the friends we’ve made since moving. Sunday afternoon, we had an Easter egg hunt for Reyna and her little bestie. They did not understand what was happening, but we had fun trying to get them interested in the eggs. It was a trip we all really savored.

The thing about having a small child is that even when you’re really busy, there are still stretches of the day where you aren’t doing much. Hours that are spent outside watching the flowers in our garden bloom (daffodils and tulips!), baking banana bread when you have bananas that are about to go bad, or sitting on a blanket in the yard when it’s sunny. I love how having a toddler has helped me slow down and appreciate the everyday bits of life that I normally pass right by. I love her delight at adding flour into the baking mixture or picking up a rock she found in the grass. So even though I look back and think April was a crazy month, when I look at my camera roll, I see a lot of savoring the spring.

Half way through the month we packed up our things and flew to Europe. It was such a sweet trip, I can’t wait to share all the photos. Traveling across the world with a toddler is no joke, but it was so worth it. More to share soon!

I only read four books in April because of all the travel, but I’m sharing all my thoughts below!

Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng | 5 stars

I started the month by revisiting one of my favorite books. My book club picked Little Fires Everywhere as our April book, and I was happy to give it a reread. If you haven’t read Little Fires Everywhere, please do. It’s a book you could put in almost anyone’s hands. So much to discuss, character-driven while also having plot, and a story where you need to know what happens. I love Celeste Ng’s writing so much, I think this is her best.

Into the Blue by Emma Brodie | 4 stars

I picked up Into the Blue because I was drawn into all the hype surrounding this book! Into the Blue is a sprawling romance between AJ and Noah. They meet in their teens over the summer and become unlikely improv partners. That summer changes the course of their lives and begins a story that spans decades. I enjoyed this book, but not as much as some people. It was a solid four-star read, but I don’t think it’ll end up being one of my favorites of the year. I think it was a me problem, I had really high expectations going in!

The Paris Match by Kate Clayborne | 3.75 stars

Next, I downloaded The Paris Match for my plane ride because I wanted something light that I could put down easily while getting up and down with Reyna during our travels. This was perfect! The chapters are quick, and the story is engaging. Layla Bailey is headed to Paris for her ex-sister-in-law’s wedding. She is ready to be a happy face, but dreading being around the family she is now divorced from. What she doesn’t expect is Griffin, the mysterious best man. When things take a turn for the bride, Layla and Griffin pair up to make sure the wedding festivities go as planned. I thought this was a cute read! It felt a tad too long, but I could see this becoming a fun Netflix movie.

The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion Volume III by Beth Brower | 4.5 stars

Oh, Emma! I love her. This was another perfect read for traveling because the chapters are so short. I love each Emma M. Lion book more and more! If you haven’t picked up this delightful series, please give it a try! Start with Volume I; they need to be read in order.

I always go back and forth about sharing star ratings. They feel very personal. A 5-star read for me is almost completely based on “vibes”. Some books have that 5-star feeling and some books don’t. So I can never decide whether they’re helpful to share, but I decided I’m going to give it a try. Let me know what you think, and I’ll make a post breaking down my star ratings.

We packed very light for our trip. Two backpacks, one carry-on roller, and a Calpak duffle. Maybe that doesn’t sound light, but for traveling with a baby, it felt like a win! I really contemplated everything that I packed. I decided to bring a small sketchbook and some colored pencils; I had to allow a little space for hobbies! (I also packed my current knitting project, only the important things!) I’m so glad I did! I loved drawing during Reyna’s naps. One of my favorite things on Instagram is watching videos of people drawing while they travel. So I decided that this was the trip I would give it a try too.

It was such a fun exercise for me. It forced me to be okay with imperfect art and making mistakes. Thinking about what I would draw during that day’s nap also encouraged me to observe the city around me. How would I draw those mountains? What color would I pick to draw that cute little building? I was knitting with a friend yesterday, and she told me that she’s learning that any kind of creating is worthwhile for your art. She’s a painter but is really into knitting right now. She was sharing how she felt guilty about using her free time to knit, but is learning that it’s serving her painting as well! It’s teaching her to be creative in a new way. That’s how I felt about sketching. It’s outside of my comfort zone, but fun and good for me to create for the sake of creating. To remember that art is actually supposed to be imperfect- that’s what makes it human and full of character.

That’s all for April 💛 I have a few fun posts planned for the next month or so. Can’t wait to share!

Thanks for reading, friends!

Megan

Hello, my friends!

March is always a tough month for me because I get the worst seasonal allergies. But I made the most of feeling sick by getting cozy at home and doing lots of reading! I had a great reading month with a mix of new releases, backlist, and lots of different genres.

Because I tried to stay inside, I spent Reyna’s naps and evenings with my sketchbook or my current knitting project. The whole family ended up getting sick in March- a cold for each of us and then the flu! (I guess we really have entered the toddler stage) So there does not feel like much to report. I tried to be gentle with myself while we all worked to get healthy again.

As I write this, we’re getting ready to go on a trip to Europe. I’m excited and nervous to be traveling with a toddler! I’m sure I’ll have lots more to report soon. Below, I’m sharing more about everything I read in March.

The Eights by Joanna Miller:

I read this with my book club this month. The story follows the friendship of four women who are in the first class of female students at Oxford University. I really loved the premise of this, but ultimately felt like there were too many storylines. I wish that it had gone deeper into one or two of the girls’ lives. This was a great book club pick, though. There is so much to discuss! I just personally wanted more character development.

Strangers by Belle Burden:

Everyone seems to be reading this book! Strangers is the memoir Belle Burden writes in the aftermath of her husband of over 20 years announcing he wants a divorce. He leaves Belle in the middle of Covid and tells her that he does not want custody of their children. This is a wild, fast read. Another book that would make a good book club pick or would get you out of a reading slump.

Lady Tremaine by Rachel Hochhauser:

While I listened to Strangers on audio, I picked up the physical copy of Lady Tremaine. This book is a Cinderella retelling from the perspective of Cinderella’s stepmother. I’m not one for retellings, but I really enjoyed this. It reads more like historical fiction than a fairytale or fantasy. If you like books that explore motherhood, I think you’ll love this! Rachel Hochhauser dives into the complexities of doing anything for your children, even if it means making bad decisions.

Agnes Aubert’s Mystical Cat Shelter by Heather Fawcett:

I couldn’t wait to read Heather Fawcett’s new book, but I waited patiently for my UK copy to arrive. The UK cover is too cute, I could not resist. This book was the perfect companion when I was sick with a cold and allergies. It’s a cozy fantasy about Agnes, a woman who runs a cat shelter in Montreal. The writing is witty, the setting is cozy, and there are so. many. cats. This is perfect for when you need a soft escapist read!

Funny Story by Emily Henry:

I’ve been wanting to reread Funny Story because I originally listened to the audio but haven’t read the physical copy. Funny Story feels like such a spring read to me. I always think about Daphne and Miles walking around the farmer’s market, drinking lavender lemonade, and eating cherries. How springy is that?! I love everything Emily Henry writes, so it will be no surprise that I loved this the second time. If you haven’t read it yet and like seasonal reads, this would be the perfect time!

The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion Volume II by Beth Brower:

I finished the month listening to the second Emma M. Lion book. I enjoyed the first one, but I loved the second! The writing is so witty, and I found myself walking around the house smiling as I listened and did chores. I already downloaded the third volume and can’t wait to keep reading. This series is about Emma, a young woman living in England in 1883. It feels like a look into the journals of one of Jane Austen’s heroines. SO fun.

1. Trader Joe’s Well-Rested Herbal Tea: I started keeping a small jar on my kitchen counter with a few tea bags in it. I spend so much time in my kitchen that it reminds me to turn the tea kettle on while I’m prepping dinner or doing dishes. I have so many boxes of tea, but they’re in my pantry, so I usually forget about them! Trader Joe’s Well-Rested herbal tea has been my favorite this last month. Feels very cozy in the evenings.

2. I have been baking a lot recently and love it. My favorite recipe I made in March was these blender zucchini muffins. They were SO easy. I host a lot, so I’m always looking for simple recipes I can make with Reyna running around, that also taste good and make my guests feel welcome in my home. These were a hit!

3. I bought a few spring books for Reyna’s bookshelves in March. I’m always on the hunt for books full of whimsical illustrations. This book is a bit too advanced for her; we’re more in the board book stage, but I couldn’t resist buying it! Should I do a post on whimsical children’s books? I’ve been finding a bunch!

What did you read in March? Tell me below!

Megan

Hello!

Today I’m sharing a belated look at my February and everything that I read. (Not many books, but two five-star reads!) Does anyone else feel like the year is going by quickly? I blinked, and March is already almost over! Our February felt very full- which is why I’m finally sitting down to write about it weeks into March.

I went on two trips in February- a retreat with gals from my church and a quick trip down to Orange County to spend time with my best friends. So much good quality time! And I was happy to come home to my baby, it was the first time I’ve been away from her for that long.

I started the month on Whidbey Island for a retreat, and it was such a breath of fresh air. We stayed in a house right on the water and had a rare, clear winter day, with views of the snowcapped mountains in the distance. It was perfect!! I came home feeling very refreshed. If you’re ever in Seattle, I think a day trip to Whidbey is a must.

Then I flew by myself to Orange County to spend time with my best friends and my best friend’s new baby. We had no agenda- just spent the days walking from coffee shop to coffee shop and catching up. I ate all my favorite California foods (In & Out and lots of Mexican food) and soaked up every moment of sun. We’ve been out of college for 8 years now, and I was reminded of how grateful I am for consistent friendships. I’m the only one from the group who’s moved out of state, so I’m so thankful that our relationships have continued to grow even though they’re long-distance. So here’s your gentle nudge to book the trip you’ve been thinking about and to put effort into the relationships you hold dear. It feels like it takes more work as we grow up, and it’s so worth it!

I came home so happy to be back with Reyna and my husband. Reyna and I have been spending our days doing our usual favorite things: walks around the neighborhood, visits to our favorite coffee shop, trips to the park, and getting outside rain or shine.

Like I said above, I didn’t read much in February. I only finished four books, but two of them were five-star reads, so I consider that a success!!

My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante: This was my book club pick for February. I was so excited because it’s been on my TBR forever, and a little nervous because I’ve started it before and felt like it might be hard to get into. It did end up being hard to get into, but I’m so glad I powered through. The story is wholly immersive, and Elena Ferrante writes nuanced characters that feel so real. I kept feeling like this book must be a memoir because she truly brings the whole town to life. This is the first book in a series of four, and I do plan on continuing the series!

An Academic Affair by Jodi McAlister: I’m a seasonal reader, so I was in the mood to find a rom-com for Valentine’s Day. I saw a few good reviews of An Academic Affair, and I’ve been looking for a good enemies-to-lovers, so I decided to pick this up. What I loved about this book is the banter between the two main characters. What I didn’t love is that you have to suspend a lot of disbelief. I’ve been enjoying rom-coms with older protagonists and plot lines that feel more realistic. I had fun with parts of this book, and it’s such a quick read, but it felt more like a Hallmark rom-com! Which I enjoy sometimes, but less so in this season of my life.

More Than Enough by Anna Quindlen: I loved More Than Enough! An easy five-star read for me. This is a quiet, character-driven story about a woman named Polly living in New York. She is navigating fertility issues while also dealing with big transitions in her family. This book felt like going on a walk with your friend through the park on a spring day. I felt like I got to come alongside all the different ups and downs of Polly’s life, and it was so beautiful. Hopeful while also not shying away from the hard parts of life.

No Matter What Cara Bastone: Another five-star read! I picked this up because I got an advanced listening copy from Penguin Random House, and I loved it more than I expected! This is my second Cara Bastone book; she’s becoming an auto-buy author for me! I loved this so much that I immediately pre-ordered a copy while listening. The story follows Roz and Vic, a married couple who have had a difficult year navigating trauma after being in an accident together. When their marriage is on the brink of ending, Roz begins attending an art class that changes her life in ways she never imagined. I loved this! No notes!

I have been creating more than usual recently and loving it! In February, I was inspired to step outside of my comfort zone creatively in a few ways: working on my first knitting project and taking a sketchbook class.

I tend to draw and illustrate exclusively on my iPad, but because I read so many children’s books with Reyna, I’ve been SO inspired by the many children’s books artists. I’m constantly blown away by the details they can achieve using pastels or colored pencils. It’s inspired me to pick up my own sketchbook and helped me embrace not doing things perfectly. With my iPad, I can redraw over and over until I achieve the look I want, but with a pencil and paper, I have to be okay with shaky lines and quirky details. It’s reminding me that character in your project comes in the messy.

1. I binged Traitors season 4 in February, and it brought me so much joy! Such a silly thing, but I looked forward to watching it every night after Reyna went to bed. This was the first season I’ve watched, and I just found it to be the perfect light-hearted escape.

2. This is my new favorite lip product. I’ve been wearing it every day!

3. Luke and I went to a candlelight concert in February that featured Hans Zimmer's music, and it was so good! I always see ads for them, and we finally decided to check one out. It was such a fun date night, and we enjoyed doing something different together than just going out to dinner.

What did you read in February? What small joys have you been celebrating recently? Let me know below!

Megan

My favorite type of winter day is when I can watch the rain from my living room without having to go outside. I don’t really mind the rain, but I prefer listening to the sound of it against my window rather than getting wet. It feels so luxurious to spend the day in soft pants, curl up with a book under my coziest blanket, and make a steaming cup of tea. I love realizing I have nowhere to be and a few hours to myself- cue an exhale of relief.

Somehow, the winter is growing on me. This is the time of year that I usually dread the most. I remember two years ago telling my husband that I was going to “beat winter”. I was determined not to let the winter blues get to me and embrace the gray season here in Seattle. A few weeks in, bundled up on an afternoon walk around the neighborhood, I told my husband that it wasn’t working. Winter was once again defeating me. In Seattle, we have to get through months of thick gray skies, and in return, we get truly the most perfect, glorious summer days. But it’s hard to hold onto that when it’s the 10th day in a row that your Weather app shows you the cloud icon. It’s the lack of sun and early dark evenings that make me begin to feel crazy. And it’s what makes me so nervous each year as the winter months approach.

But the other day, I had the realization that I’ve been more gentle with myself this winter. That I wasn’t being too hard on myself when I slept in and snoozed my early alarm. That I was being intentional with my daily tasks and finding joy in them. I was looking forward to the evenings when I could change into my sweatpants, pour a glass of red wine, and chop vegetables for a warm bowl of soup. I’m loving wearing my sweaters and working on knitting projects with soft balls of yarn. I’m even loving going on cold winter walks. The biting fresh air is a reset that my daughter and I both need most days. I find that we both come home a little calmer. A little happier for her and a fresh perspective for me.

Winter asks us to be gentle, something I’m learning that I don’t actually do very often. I like to stay busy. But I’m slowly learning that’s not what I need this time of year.

I spent 2025 in survival mode, and I’m working on changing that this year. I feel physically tired from caring for a small child and emotionally drained from saying yes to too many things and not setting boundaries that work well for my family. Life is busy, and I’m still learning how to hold the overwhelm and the joy at the same time.

So I decided that something needed to change this winter. Instead of focusing on goals, I wanted to embrace being gentle. Having a lot of grace for myself and being okay with progress that often feels very slow.

Here’s what my January mood board looked like:

After scrolling Pinterest and making this little mood board, I realized that I was subconsciously craving gentleness for my body and soul. Making dinner at home more often than going out or picking up takeout. Focusing on real, whole foods and lots of soup recipes that could simmer in the crockpot all afternoon. I bought a few new boxes of tea and decided to end each day with a cup of tea, a squeeze of lemon, and a few minutes of reading before bed. I wanted to focus my free time on lots of knitting and reading- even if that meant I had to skip out on a few house chores. Finding time in the week to go to Pilates, and even better if I could schedule it around friends’ going.

Winter is calling for me to be gentler with myself. To make space for my hobbies and not add unnecessary pressure. To let myself slow down and rest before busier seasons come. To embrace the rainy days with all the small joys they bring: a cozy sweater, lighting a candle, and starting a new book.

Megan

Hi friends!

I love these monthly life lately posts because they give me a reason to pause and look back on the month. I’m not in the habit of carving out time to reflect, and this has become such a good rhythm for me. I’m surprised each time by how much can happen in a month- and how quickly I forget what I’ve been up to!

January was a slow, gentle start to the year. I cooked at home a lot, started my first knitting project, and spent many days at the park with Reyna. The park is right by my favorite coffee shop, so my new favorite activity is getting a matcha for myself and then walking with Reyna to the park. It feels like a win for both of us! I’m learning that the toddler stage is MESSY. I’m trying to let go of my want to control and let her have fun and get dirty playing in the sand. Children's ability to ignore the weather amazes me. It could be pouring rain, and Reyna would still be sitting in puddles getting covered in mud and be happy as can be.

Below, I’m sharing the 5 books I read in January and 3 things that brought joy last month. It was such a good reading month for me, and I'm excited for many more books to come this year!

The Stolen Life of Colette Marceau by Kristin Harmel:

I started the year with my book club pick, The Stolen Life of Colette Marceau. I’ve never read Harmel before, and historical fiction is not my go-to genre, but I found myself engrossed in this story. The book revolves around a jewelry thief and her life during and after WWII.

In Your Dreams by Sarah Adams:

This is the last book in Sarah Adams Rome series. If you like small-town rom-coms, I definitely recommend picking this series up. They’re cute, easy reads, and I’ve enjoyed picking one up each year. When in Rome is the first book in the series!

Emily Wilde’s Compendium of Lost Tales by Heather Fawcett:

Another last book in a series, I’ve been saving the third and final Emily Wilde book for a winter day. Last year, I discovered that I really enjoy a cozy fantasy novel, and each book in this series put such a smile on my face. Heather Fawcett has a new book coming out this month, and I’m excited to see what she is going to do next!

Maggie; or, a Man and a Woman Walk in a Bar by Katie Yee:

Easily my favorite book of the month, I loved this story so much. I added it to my TBR after interviewed Katie Yee on her Substack. The writing is beautiful and reminded me of Weike Wang and Lily King. The story deals with grief and family after a woman gets diagnosed with cancer in the midst of going through a divorce. While it’s a heavier setup, Katie Yee handles her characters with care, and her writing reminds you that there is laughter and life in the midst of tragedy.

Raising Hare by Chloe Dalton:

This is Chloe Dalton’s memoir about the hare she finds and rescues in her yard. I was hoping to get more insight into Chloe Dalton’s life, but this is more of a reflection on hares and wildlife. It’s beautiful, and I loved the audio, but it’s a bit slower than I expected.

1. I’ve been watching more TV than I normally do. I look forward to a free evening, knitting or drawing on my iPad with a show in the background. At the beginning of January, I finished the second season of Nobody Wants This. Between that and the People We Meet on Vacation release, it feels like there is hope for the rom-com again! It’s been a while since there have been some good romantic comedies- Kristin Bell and Adam Brody are giving me hope that this is the beginning of more! If you haven’t watched Nobody Wants This yet, please do it’s so FUN.

2. I saw Lily King speak at Third Place Books a few weeks ago, and it was such a joy! I haven’t been to an author event in a year or so, and I forgot how delightful it is to be surrounded by like-minded readers. It encouraged me to look up author events in the area and attend more of them this year!

   

3. We are having the best weather this winter! We’ve had multiple sunny days, and it feels so good to get outside. I’ve been soaking up every sunny day with visits to the park, ferry rides, and longer walks.

   What did you read in January? What are some small joys that have been helping you in your day-to-day? Tell me below!

   Megan

One of my favorite things about the end of the year is seeing all of the best-of lists that come out. I love reading through NPR’s Book Concierge (now Books We Love) and the New York Times list, but mostly I can’t wait to read my favorite book influencer’s top 10 posts.

I always look forward to reading Michelle’s favorite books of the year post over at Literary Leanings, Annie and Hunter’s end of year discussion on the From the Front Porch podcast, and Meredith and Kaytee’s top 10 podcast episode.

This year I also loved Shauna, Mackenzie, and Renee’s lists. Finding good recommendation sources from like-minded readers has truly changed my reading life for the better. So I always take note of what my favorites are reading, and it usually means my TBR is going to grow a ton. Below are 8 books that repeatedly appeared on end-of-year lists and I’m prioritizing in 2026.

Maggie; or a Man and a Woman Walk into a Bar by Katie Yee:

A story that follows an unnamed woman who is processing a breast cancer diagnosis and the end of her marriage. Katie Yee’s writing has been compared to Nora Ephron and Weike Wang- two favorites of mine. This is my current read!

Dream State by Eric Puchner:

I skimmed the synopsis of this book at a bookstore, but it didn’t initially jump out to me. Since then, SO many readers with a taste similar to mine have loved it. I’m always hesitant to dive into a book that is 400+ pages, but I’m hoping to start this one soon! It follows three friends whose lives become intertwined one summer and affect them for years to come.

Buckeye by Patrick Ryan:

This is another book that I have put aside because of its length. I was so excited when it came out, but I just have a hard time committing to long books in this season of my life. Maybe I need to try one longer book a quarter and see if that helps! Buckeye follows two couples in the aftermath of WWII in a changing America. So many readers have loved this, and I have a feeling that I will too!

Raising Hare by Chloe Dalton:

I’ve been drawn to more nature writing in the last year, so the premise of this memoir intrigued me. Chloe Dalton’s life is changed when she takes in a baby hare that she finds outside her home in the countryside of England. I’m currently listening to this on audio and finding it very soothing!

Slanting Towards the Sea by Lidija Hilje:

This novel spans twenty years in Croatia, as a woman’s life changes in the aftermath of her divorce. I am obsessed with the cover of this book and think that I’ll save it to read this summer!

Deep Cuts by Holly Brickley:

I missed this debut novel about Joe and Percy, who connect in college over their love of music. They begin collaborating on the songs Joe is writing, which leads to a partnership that spans years. I love a book that dives deep into the creative process and how complicated it can be.

Show Don’t Tell by Curtis Sittenfeld:

I always love a new Curtis Sittenfeld book! This is a short story collection that dives into the lives of different women. I love how Sittenfeld writes about everyday life and creates characters that feel so real.

A Marriage at Sea by Sophie Elmhirst:

I love a nonfiction book that is so compelling it reads like fiction. Sophie Elmhirst writes about the true story of a couple whose boat is shipwrecked, and they become lost at sea. This seems like a page turner, and I can’t wait to pick it up!

Are there any 2025 releases that are higher on your list after reading all of the end-of-year lists? Have you read any of the ones on my list? Tell me below!

Megan

Hi, friends!

When we moved to Seattle a few years back, my mother-in-law told me that I needed a winter hobby. I was born and raised in LA, where most days it is 75 degrees and sunny. When it hits 65, we all pull out our sweaters and pretend we’re experiencing winter. So the big topic when we announced our move was how we would handle the rainy gray weather. I bought a sunlight and began taking a vitamin D supplement. But one of the best pieces of advice I got was from my mother-in-law, telling me I should find a winter hobby.

I like the idea of having specific rhythms for different seasons. It helps me embrace whatever season is coming next- even if it’s not my favorite. During daylight savings in the fall, I pull out extra lamps that I turn on in the evenings at 4:30 or 5:00 PM. I light candles in the kitchen and living room and let my house transition into a cozy space every night. It helps ease some of the dread of the early darkness.

The winter hobby I landed on a few years back was crocheting. I loved having a new skill to conquer. I typically do 1-2 projects a winter and then tuck my yarn away into a closet until the next fall. This year though, I decided I wanted to learn how to knit. I’ve been following more knit and crocheting Instagram accounts, which have really inspired me. This was the first one I came across, then I fell in love with Petite Knit patterns, and this is my latest follow.

I spent my Christmas practicing knit stitches, and I just started my first project, the Weekend Hat by Petite Knit. One of my friends started knitting while her kids were playing to break the habit of scrolling on her phone. Now her kids never see her on her phone, and she has a hobby she loves. I like the idea of putting that into practice with Reyna. Of getting off my phone and doing something with my hands instead.

I think it’s just fun to have a project to be excited about during the winter months. To help embrace spending more time inside and this season where things slow down. It’s a rhythm I’ve come to value and look forward to each year.

Today I’m sharing 5 things I’m loving this week (knitting- obviously!), and they all revolve around winter and finding joy during the coldest months of the year. What are some of the winter rituals you love?

5 Things I’m Loving This Week:

1. Okay, I’ve already gone on and on about knitting! I’m so enjoying sneaking in a few minutes whenever I get a chance. It’s a great hobby to do while listening to an audiobook or watching a show. I’ve been working on my hat while alternating between watching Nobody Wants This on Netflix and listening to Raising Hare by Chloe Dalton.

2. These sweatpants from Old Navy. I’ve been on the hunt for a matching set for SO long. I’m 5’4” and have trouble finding pants that are a good length for me. Almost everything is always too long. These sweatpants are my new favorite thing…I have to keep myself from wearing them every day. I have the matching sweatshirt too, but feel like you could take it or leave it. I like that it makes it a matching set, but it’s pretty lightweight so I mainly wear it around the house or layer it with another jacket if I’m running errands. It’s out of stock in the brown color I bought but they have a bunch of different options!

3. Soup season! My new favorite thing is pouring a glass of wine and making a soup for dinner. I’ve really enjoyed this one and this one.

4. I’m reading the last book in Sarah Adams’ Rome series this week, and I’m loving taking one last trip to Rome, Kentucky, with the whole small-town! If you enjoy cozy rom-coms, definitely add this series to your list! They’re quick, fun, and I love that we get to know the whole town over the series of four books.

5. My friends in Orange County introduced me to this cute little boutique that has the best jewelry. All of their pieces are dainty, reasonably priced, and perfect for everyday wear! I got this bracelet (wearing in the picture above!) for Christmas and have worn it every day since.

6. One last bonus obsession- did you watch the People We Meet on Vacation movie last weekend?! I was surprised by how much I loved it! People We Meet on Vacation is not my favorite in the Emily Henry universe, and my expectations weren’t high because you never know with movie adaptations. But I thought it was SO good! I can’t wait to see which of EmHen’s books get adapted next, and it’s making me think I need to reread one of her other books ASAP! I reread Happy Place and People We Met on Vacation in 2025, so I think Book Lovers (my fav) or Funny Story is up next!

So obsessed I had to draw Poppy and Alex 🫶🏼

What are you loving this week? Tell me about your winter hobbies or what you’re reading below!

Megan

I hope you had a great holiday. I’m sitting in my living room next to our Christmas tree with a cup of tea. We usually keep our tree up an extra week or so because we’re always visiting family over Christmas. I’m soaking up all the coziness of the season this year and trying to embrace winter. Which means the decorations are staying up longer, the tea kettle is on all day, and every chance I get, I curl up under a blanket with my book or a craft.

Today’s post is one of my favorites of the year: my top reads of 2025. I always wait until January for my wrap-up, just in case a 5-star book sneaks into my reading the last few weeks of the year. While that didn’t happen this year, I did have a great month of reading holiday books in December.

I’ve seen several people share this sentiment about their 2025 reading: it’s been a weird reading year. For me personally, 2025 brought a lot of transition. New motherhood, a colicky baby, lots of traveling, and adjusting to being a stay-at-home mom who also works part-time? 🤪 I’m so grateful to be starting 2026 in a place where things feel better. It’s still chaos most of the time, but every day it feels like Luke, Reyna, and I get into more of a routine.

ALL that to say, I read significantly less than I normally do. Every book that I did read though, felt like a victory. A reminder that I’m still me in these early years of motherhood, where I can easily get lost in survival mode. So while I read less, I really loved the books I read this year. I took my time with them and was excited every time I got to sit down with my book. I was very picky about what I picked up and DNF’d way more than usual. I’m hoping to carry that quality-over-quantity mentality into the new year.

My list is based primarily on feelings 😂 What books am I still thinking about by the end of the year? What books made me feel something or changed the way I look at the world? What books do I tell my husband the whole plot to or recommend to everyone? I hope you find some gems in this list. Tell me below what you’re adding to your own TBR!

The Correspondent by Virginia Evans:

Everyone is talking about this book, and for good reason! I think it’s a perfect example of how we are all craving something heartwarming in life right now. It’s smart and funny while also tackling how grief changes our lives. Sybil Van Antwerp is now one of my favorite literary characters and someone I still think about often. This is a great book to gift people in your life, perfect for book lovers, and one I see myself rereading.

Heartwood by Amity Gaige:

This book was one of my biggest surprises of the year. I never would have picked it up based on the premise, but I immediately bought it after reading the first page while browsing a bookstore. A reminder to always give a book a try, even if it’s out of your comfort zone! I was hooked on Amity Gaige’s writing. The Appalachian Trail setting is so vivid that I could picture myself alongside the characters on each page. If you like literary mysteries, pick this up!

Kate & Frida by Kim Fay:

I loved this book, and I think it was a bit under the radar. This is another epistolary novel like The Correspondent and feels equally like a comfort read. Kim Fay’s books always revolve around friendship, food, and books- what’s not to love? It’s a beautiful ode to being in your 20s and early adulthood—the conversations about trying to live a creative life stuck with me. I really enjoyed this on audio!

Ordinary Time by Annie B. Jones:

I’ve been following Annie B. Jones’ podcast From the Front Porch for years now. So many of the books I love are because Annie introduced me to them. Getting to see her dreams of writing a book come to life has been so special to follow along with! If you’re not following Annie already, please do. Annie’s essays about living an ordinary life and navigating running a small business, family, friendship, and church were so lovely and relatable.

Three Days in June by Anne Tyler:

Anne Tyler writes beautifully about everyday life and family. I have loved so many of her novels, and this was no exception. This is a super slim novel you could read in a day. It’s quiet and character-driven. I’m always in awe of the way Anne Tyler captures the complexities of being a human in such a short span of pages. This is my favorite family drama I’ve read in a while.

Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy:

Wild Dark Shore was my first Charlotte McConaghy book, and I was not sure what to expect…but I was captured from the first pages with this tiny island near Antarctica. This book is such a WILD ride! It went in so many directions I was not expecting, and I could not stop turning the pages. I loved McConaghy’s nature writing- she brings every part of the island to life for the reader.

Emily Wilde’s Encyclopedia of Faeries by Heather Fawcett:

This was another unexpected favorite! I read this as a buddy read with my best friend and really struggled through the first part. It took me a while to get into the writing style, but then I was hooked! I loved getting lost in the world of Emily Wilde this year. These books are cozy and creative and just feel fun! They’re also perfect for winter.

Heart the Lover by Lily King:

When I started this book I was enjoying it, but not as much as I anticipated. And then Lily King changes the whole feel of the book in just one sentence, and I was in awe. What I loved about this book was the writing and how perspective can change a whole story. I cried my way through the whole ending and then entered the biggest reading slump. If you’re looking to feel big feelings, this one is for you.

Tom Lake & The Dutch House by Ann Patchett:

Okay, I went back and forth about including these because they’re rereads, but when I look back on my reading this year, they were both significant. I just love Ann Patchett. The way she writes family dynamics is so beautiful. I listened to Tom Lake in August when it was warm, and everything was growing in our garden. Then I listened to The Dutch House in the early days of fall when the trees were changing colors, and the air was crisp. Both were perfect audiobook experiences!

When I look back on my 2025 reading, I think I’ll see a year in which I was craving comfort and books to really escape into. Books that brought levity into days that often felt overwhelming. I love getting to see how different my favorite books are every year, and how they reflect where I am in life personally.

Do we share any favorites? What were your favorite books of the year? Did you have a weird reading year too? Please tell me below!

Megan

The holiday season is in full swing, and while I’m behind on decorating my home this year, I have been reading holiday books! I love picking up a few cozy picks in December; it’s one of my favorite ways to embrace the Christmas season. Below I’m sharing my four favorite holiday reads and the books on my own TBR this month.

My Favorite Holiday Reads:

The Twelve Dates of Christmas by Jenny Bayliss: I think that Jenny Bayliss is the QUEEN of the holiday book! Each year, I look forward to her latest release. Her books are set in England, always cozy, and full of great characters & small towns. The Twelve Dates of Christmas is her debut and one of my all-time favorites. The main character is an illustrator and I loved reading about her process of finding inspiration and painting. Several scenes in this book focus on Christmas activities that make me excited about embracing the season in my own life.

A Season for Second Chances by Jenny Bayliss: Okay, I promise this list is not all Jenny Bayliss books. I reread this last year in the early weeks of postpartum, and the audiobook was the perfect companion to middle-of-the-night feedings. This book is more about winter than Christmas, so I think this would be a great January read too! I love the depth Jenny Bayliss brings to her characters in this and the small-town setting. There is a delightful book club in this book that I wish I could join!

Holiday Romance by Catherine Walsh: If you like good banter & a sweet romance, this one is for you! I instantly fell in love with Molly and Andrew when I read this a few years back. Molly and Andrew are friends who are both trying to get home to Ireland during a snowstorm. In the midst of trying to get home in time for Christmas and getting stuck in a travel nightmare, they both have to confront their feelings for each other. Even though this book begins at an airport, it has a very cosy Irish setting!

The Holiday Swap by Maggie Knox: This recommendation is for the Hallmark lovers! Identical twins Charlie and Cass switch places in the days leading up to Christmas. While this book feels a bit more “Hallmark Channel”, one of the twins runs a bakery and I loved the setting. It’s a quick read that will make you want to immediately visit your local bakery!

My 2025 Holiday TBR:

Winter Street by Elin Hilderbrand: This was my book club’s selection for the month, and I had so much fun with this fast-paced family saga. If you watch The Family Stone every year, this is a quick read you could finish in 1-2 sittings, and it has the same feel! The story follows the Quinn family, where each member is dealing with their own issues. This is the first in a series and full of drama!

The Most Wonderful Crime of the Year by Ally Carter: This is my current read that I picked up after several friends recommended it. It has a bit of everything: mystery, romance, and a fun English coast setting. Maggie Chase is a cozy mystery author who was invited to spend Christmas with her all-time favorite author, Eleanor Ashley. The problem is that her nemesis, Ethan Wyatt, was also invited, and Eleanor goes missing on their first night there. Maggie and Ethan have to team up to figure out the truth and find Eleanor. I’m only about 30% in, but so far this is so cute and fun!

Kiss Me at Christmas by Jenny Bayliss: This is my other current read! Who else reads multiple books at a time? I’m listening to this and love the British narration on my walks. Kiss Me at Christmas follows Harriett, a woman who works in education and finds herself in charge of a Christmas production mere weeks before the holiday. There is a fun cast of characters, and I love the theater setting. Did you grow up going to Christmas shows? I fondly remember my brother’s Christmas choir performances and visiting my mom’s elementary school students’ Christmas shows. Something about watching little kids dress up and sing carols is so fun. We don’t do anything like that over the holidays anymore, so this book has felt nostalgic to me!

I’ll Be Home for Christmas by Jenny Bayliss: Unless I’m feeling fatigued on Christmas books 😂 I’m planning on squeezing in Jenny Bayliss’ newest release too! This story follows Fred, a woman who returns home for the holidays after a bad breakup. She feels out of place in the hometown she grew up in, but she reconnects with her old best friend, Ryan. I hope I’ve convinced you to give a Jenny Bayliss book a try by this point! I haven’t started this, but I’m hoping it’s full of the same British small-town charm and quirky characters that all of her books are!

Do you enjoy reading holiday books? What are you reading this season? Let me know below!

Megan

Hello, my friends!

October was such a sweet month. I finally let go of summer and embraced fall —it has been so wonderful. I pulled out all of my sweaters and have enjoyed being cozy every day. I’m looking for a good matching set that I can wear at home, but also out and about running errands. Any recommendations? Tell me below! I’m eyeing this one here. My mom came into town to visit, and we went apple picking and to a pumpkin patch with Reyna. My husband and I celebrated our sixth anniversary and spent a great day together. I also had my first solo week with Reyna. I was so nervous about it, but was so grateful for how well it went. It gave me this new confidence in mothering, which was a gift I didn’t know I needed.

I was super nostalgic in October because Reyna’s birthday is the first week of November. It will have already passed by the time this newsletter publishes! I keep thinking about how I was preparing to meet our baby this time last year, and now we’ve almost spent a whole twelve months together. All in all, it was a great month! Below, I’m sharing what I read, created, how my soft goals went, and my small joys.

I focused on reading from my fall TBR this month. I read five books, four from my TBR and one mood read:

Wild Reverence by Rebecca Ross: This is the prequel to the Divine Rivals series. It was a little long, but I enjoyed it overall. Rebecca Ross is so good at world-building, and her writing is beautiful and lyrical.

A Witch’s Guide to Magical Innkeeping by Sangu Mandanna: I love Sangu Mandanna! Her writing feels like a warm cup of tea. I really enjoyed this story about a witch who lost her magic and now manages an inn with her family. It’s full of cozy moments and quirky side characters. I listened to this on audio and think it would be the perfect addition to your fall walks.

The Dutch House by Ann Patchett: Once I finished A Witch’s Guide to Magical Innkeeping on audio, I started my reread of The Dutch House! This was my first time listening to it, and Tom Hanks did a fantastic job narrating. It kind of felt like I was reading this book for the first time. I did not want to put it down. In my opinion, this is the perfect family story. It’s tender, the writing is beautiful, and it will make you think about your own life and family. I also noticed something interesting- the book is dedicated to Patrick Ryan. I assume it’s the same Patrick Ryan who wrote Buckeye, which Ann Patchett blurbed. I thought this was a fun connection! Both books are on my fall TBR, so I knew I would start Buckeye as soon as I finished The Dutch House. (It’s now my current read!)

The Spellshop by Sarah Beth Durst: I feel conflicted about this book. It has a slow start and the writing is very repetitive, but by the end, I found myself looking up the next book set in Sarah Beth Durst’s cozy fantasy world. I think this ended up being a 3-star read for me. If you're looking for something truly cozy and low stakes, this is it!

Awake by Jen Hatmaker: I have read a few of Jen Hatmaker’s books and have listened to some episodes of her podcast, so I added her memoir about the end of her twenty-six-year-long marriage to my list as soon as she announced it was coming. I thought it was excellent! Jen’s writing is funny and heartfelt. I appreciate how she is dedicated to doing the inner care work that can easily get pushed to the side. She writes about her experiences in the church, her marriage, and how she pieced her life back together after her marriage ended. It’s a beautiful tribute to her friends and family who walked alongside her.

If you missed it, I shared a post last week about how creating monthly soft goals has become a real life-giving practice for me. I wanted to do a little check-in for my October soft goals; they went so well! I kept my goals short and sweet for October because I knew it was a busy month and I wanted to fit in lots of fall activities. I completed everything except the two illustrations I wanted to complete. Instead, I finished one illustration and am *almost* done with the second, but did not quite make it.

But! It was the most I’ve illustrated all year, so I will take that as a win. Here’s the illustration I did complete:

Romanticizing dishes and daily tasks and babies who want to be held all of the time. Also, I now want wallpaper in my kitchen! I’ve found that making a soft goals list is not only helping me be more intentional with my time, but also more present to the season I’m in.

A few small joys from October:

1. Long weekend naps: I have a new rule that on the weekends, I won’t do any work during my daughter’s naps. Because I freelance, I work during most of Reyna’s naps throughout the week. It’s helpful to have the time, but I don’t feel very rested by the end of the day. So I have a new rule where I just get to enjoy her weekend naps and it has been such a joy! I’ve been spending the time crafting or reading.

2. This is my tried and true cinnamon roll recipe that I use every year. I added apples to my filling this time and they were delicious!

3. My local coffee shop has a maple cinnamon matcha on their seasonal menu and it is SO good. I think it’s something you easily could recreate at home, too!

How was your October? What was your favorite book you picked up? Tell me below!

Megan

I’m often thinking about how to juggle all of the life things: work, family, dreams, friends, and when will I finally make time to clean out my closet? Processing my rhythms and routines to discern what’s working and what isn’t has become a lifeline for me. A few months ago, my best friend sent me a voice memo that she was having a cozy night making a vision board for the month of September. First, what a dream?! Second, she got me thinking about hopes and goals in a new way.

I was inspired to make my own vision board, but changed things slightly to work for my own season of life. I landed on creating a “soft goals” list. Here’s how it works:

To start, I set aside some time to think about the month before. What’s working? What isn’t working in my life? Then, I pull out my calendar and look at the month ahead. What are the priorities? What do we have going on? Some months are heavy with travel, and other months are full of work deadlines and hosting. I jot down anything I need to think through and plan. Do I need to buy birthday gifts? Find a babysitter for date night? Are there busier times in the month that I can prepare for in advance? What can I let go of if it is a busy month?

When my friend Kate was telling me about her vision board, what stuck out to me was that it wasn’t just about goals. She was creating space for self-care and making intentional time to do things she’s been dreaming about. Which brings me to the fun part: once I’ve mapped out my month, I spend some time dreaming. What have I been hoping for recently? What are the things I’ve been wanting to do but haven’t made time for? In September, I added going to a Pilates class to my soft goals list. I love Pilates. It’s one of my favorite things. I stopped going mid-pregnancy last year when we moved and haven’t found a new studio since. Last month, I finally spent some time researching studios and found time in my schedule to go twice a week. I’ve gone a few times now, and I feel SO grateful every class that I’m making time for myself to move my body.

Last month, I realized that I’ve saved so many Instagram posts of people drawing. So I added draw in my sketchbook to my list. A key element of my soft goals is making them attainable. I have to remind myself that slow steps are still meaningful and worth it. Showing up for myself and spending an hour drawing in my sketchbook when I could be washing dishes or catching up on work is worth it. I’m a better wife, mother, and friend for it. What I learned doing this in September was that having small goals brought me so much joy because I could actually check them off. It’s helping keep my long-term dreams top of mind and a good reminder that I actually have to plan out the time if I’m going to make them happen.

Here’s my soft goals list for October:

My daughter turns one in November (how!), and I have so many craft ideas pinned for her birthday party. I don’t want to do everything the week of the party, so I knew I would need to schedule a few evenings of crafting ahead of time. Fall is my favorite, and it always feels like the shortest season? Before I know it, it’ll be the holidays so I wanted my October goals to mainly focus on doing some fun fall things. I’m really trying to get back into illustrating and have several sketches on my iPad that are half done. My goal this month is to complete two of them! The other thing I kept in mind while making this list was that my husband would be gone for a week in October, and I would be solo parenting. I didn’t want to overdo it with my list this month and decided to keep it pretty light because I knew the month would fly by. And it has!

Making soft goals has become a treasured ritual these last two months. It’s reminding me to schedule time for the things I love instead of getting lost in work and the daily to-dos. The practice is helping me be more present and pay attention, which is a gift in this busy, loud world. How do you set goals and intentions? I love hearing what works for other people! Tell me below!

For some reason, this year I’m more nervous about the gray season than usual. Perhaps it is because I’m about to have a tiny toddler walking around, and we pass a lot of our time being outside. The past few days though, the excitement is starting to set in. I remembered that I bought a few fall candles on sale at the end of the season last year that I can now use. I got my yarn out of the back of my closet and started a new crochet project. I’ve saved several soup recipes and decided to get a membership at a Pilates studio to get myself out the door and stay moving. I also sat down and made a small TBR of books that I’m sharing below. How are you welcoming fall this year?

I’m keeping my TBR small this season for two reasons: I’m reading less and decision fatigue! Because I have less time for reading, I want each book I pick up to be a 4 or 5 star read…which is just not realistic. I am for sure putting too much pressure on my book picks! I’m hoping that having a small list to choose from takes away some of the overthinking I’ve been doing.

Something witchy: A Witch’s Guide to Magical Innkeeping by Sangu Mandanna

Sangu Mandanna’s debut novel The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches is one of my most recommended fall books. It’s atmospheric and cozy, so I’m excited to start her latest release. It involves an enchanted inn and a talking fox…I’m in!

Something long: Buckeye by Patrick Ryan

Fall means back-to-school and even though I am not in school, I still can’t shake that back-to-school energy. Buckeye has been getting rave reviews from some of my favorites and I like the idea of diving into a long historical fiction novel for the season. It’s also a Read with Jenna pick and I generally like her selections.

Something cozy: The Spellshop by Sarah Beth Durst

Every year I find new themes in my reading life and in 2025 I’ve dipped my toes back into fantasy. I read the Emily Wilde series and found that I love a cozy fantasy novel, so I decided to add this beloved book to my TBR for the fall. My best friend and I both bought copies and I’m excited to read this one together.

Something on audio: The Dutch House by Ann Patchett

I raved about my reread of Tom Lake over the summer and loved it so much that I decided it’s time for a reread of The Dutch House. I’m going to listen to the audio this time and can’t wait for fall walks listening to Tom Hanks narrate.

Something new to me: Wild Reverence by Rebecca Ross

I read Rebecca Ross’ Divine Rivals duology, but wasn’t sure if I would read her new release, which is a prequel to the series. It’s long and feels a bit more “high” fantasy than her other books. But the cover swept me into the release buzz and I bought a copy. I’m about one-third of the way through, and so far I’m glad I gave it a chance. Rebecca’s writing is beautiful, and I love the deep dive into the world of the gods we get a glimpse of in the Divine Rivals books. This one feels good for greek mythology lovers.

Something with a campus setting: The Academy by Elin Hilderbrand

My reading life has had ups and downs this year. I mentioned above that I’m reading less than usual and have had several reading ruts. So I like the idea of having something on my TBR that is fast-paced and full of drama to keep me turning the pages. Elin Hilderbrand feels like the perfect author for that and I love that this book has a campus setting!

Something literary: Heart the Lover by Lily King

Lily King is one of my favorite authors, so I am so excited to get my hands on her newest release, which is getting a ton of buzz! I love her writing and can’t wait to sink into a new book of hers. I’m going on a girls trip this weekend and I think this is the book I’ll be packing with me!

What is on your fall TBR? What are you looking forward to reading this season?

1. I’ve been listening to this Taylor Swift Fall Playlist on repeat this month. It’s the perfect mood for fall and I’ve been singing along while I do chores around my house.

2. Okay, I’m not sure if this is a new product this season or just new-to-me, but I tried the Non-Dairy Cinnamon Bun Creamer from Trader Joe’s last week and I’m obsessed! It’s the perfect sweet treat to add to your afternoon cup of coffee or tea. I imagine it would also taste excellent in a homemade matcha!

3. Also mentioned above- September is one of the best months of the year here. Reyna and I have been spending almost every afternoon in a park, soaking up the sun. It’s such a small thing, but delights both of us!

Thanks for reading! Tell me what you’re excited about for the fall season below!

Megan

A note from me to you about what life has looked like lately. A compilation of the books I’m reading, things I’m creating, and small joys I’m finding amidst the day-to-day.

Hello!

At the end of every month, I think, “Wow, this month was so busy.” And yet- the busyness just seems to continue 🤪 I am practicing finding joy even when I feel overwhelmed by my schedule- and soaking in each quiet moment I get. Looking back on July to write this post has been a helpful reminder to me that there are so many moments to be grateful for, even when I am feeling tired and in survival mode. I guess what I’m trying to say is that I’m forever learning to hold the “both and.” That life is going to continue to have seasons of busyness and I can still find joy and routine and peace in the midst of it.

I started July on a low note, with waking up sick the first day of our trip to my in-law’s home in Idaho. I was fully recovered by the time we went home, but then jumped into hosting family and friends for the rest of the month (cue the “both/and” feelings). We always tell people to visit us over the summer because it’s the best time of year in Washington. This year my parents and some college friends took us up on our offer and we had so much fun exploring Seattle with them. Sometimes it’s nice to explore your city through the eyes of someone who doesn’t live there. We took a ferry to one of the islands, went blueberry picking, and spent as much time outside as possible.

The highlight was spending a week with my mom. I miss living close to my parents and getting to do daily life with them, so having my mom here for 8 days was so special. She helped me plant flowers around our deck, went on long walks with me and Reyna, and watched American Sweethearts (the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader show😂) with me every night after Reyna went to bed. It was simple, yet perfect.

Between being sick and hosting, I only read two books this month. I’m trying to get used to my new reading rhythm in this season of life and being okay with the fact that I don’t have as much time to read. I read Broken Country while sitting on my in-laws’ deck overlooking the lake. It doesn’t feel like summer to me until I’m sitting in my favorite chair with a book and the lake in view. Every afternoon of our quick trip to Idaho, I treated myself to time outside with my book. Broken Country was the perfect choice because I could not put it down. If you’re looking to squeeze in one more summer read and want a literary mystery, add this to your list!

I decided to reread Happy Place by Emily Henry and listen to the audiobook. I’ve reread several of Emily Henry’s books over the years, but never Happy Place. I was craving a book with a Maine setting and this was perfect! I actually enjoyed it more than my first read.

I started drawing again in July and am truly so happy about it I could cry!! It feels so good to create and make time for myself in this way. I’m trying to put very little pressure on myself and just draw for the sake of drawing. That feels easier said than done. Because I’m out of practice, I’m finding myself in a constant comparison game.

Instead of just drawing on my iPad, I pulled out my sketchbook and have been practicing with pen and paper as a warm-up. It feels so freeing, and I’ve noticed that I allow myself to explore more with colors and style than I do when drawing digitally.

I've also started a character drawing class, which I’m excited about! While I am just letting myself work on projects for fun, I do have some illustration goals and am starting by honing my craft a bit more.

Have you been working on any creative projects recently? Tell me below! I’m tentatively thinking about sewing a few things for my daughter’s first birthday this fall, but feel unsure about starting a whole new hobby.

1. Finding inspiration all around: I love when I walk into a new place and feel instantly inspired to create. I had that feeling when walking into Manna on our trip to Idaho. It made me dream of all the possibilities of artwork I can fill my own home with.

2. My husband made us a dining table and it is stunning!! Our dining room has a navy painted shiplap wall covering that I have disliked since moving in. We have finally been motivated to paint now that the table is finished. The room is currently in project mode with one coat of paint, so I will share a photo once it’s done! But below is the inspiration for the new color and it’s making me so excited:

3. I’ve been reading a poem by Mary Oliver every day while also reading her essay collection: Upstream. I’ve been thinking about this quote a lot: “attention is the beginning of devotion.” It’s bringing me a lot of joy to practice paying attention instead of constantly being glued to my phone.

What are you reading? What are some things bringing you joy lately? Tell me below!

Hello!

Something I love about reading is seeing how my interests change each season and how it’s reflected in the books I choose to pick up. Last summer, I was on a historical fiction kick, and this summer I’ve been leaning more towards mysteries and fast-paced stories (Hi, Broken Country & Heartwood!). The last few weeks, I’ve been craving stories with a strong sense of place. Maybe it’s because I want to soak up as much of summer as I can before it gets gray here in Seattle, or maybe I’m just craving slowness after a busy July. But I want my current read to transport me to a garden or open fields with a glass of wine and freshly picked fruit. Anyone else?

The vibe:

I thought this was a specific request, but I decided to ask my friends on Instagram for their recommendations anyway. I didn’t even put up a question box because I didn’t think I would get many responses. Instead, I received over 70 book recommendations- clearly, I am not the only one craving words that feel soft & grounding.

Here is a compilation of the nature and food book recommendations given to me! Most of these I have not read, but my TBR is officially much longer. I separated them into fiction, non-fiction, and writers in general who fit the description:

I dove right in by starting Rules for Visiting by Jessica Francis Kane on my Kindle. I already owned it, and it’s been on my TBR forever, so I decided it was a good place to start. I also started Taste by Stanley Tucci on audio. Next up for me on audio, I think, will be Tom Lake by Ann Patchett. I have already read this, but I read the physical copy and love the idea of Meryl Streep reading to me while I’m on my walks!

Do you have any favorite nature and food books? Are you adding anything to your TBR from this list? Let me know below!

Megan

Hello, my friends!

It’s been a minute! Since I last shared, our family has gone on three trips to California and one international trip. Turns out trying to take care of a baby, keep up with my daily life, job, and traveling are too many things 🤪 so most of my personal projects have had to pause. But I’ve still been reading books and I’m *hoping* that things are calming down and I can dip my toes back into this space.

Today I’m deep diving into the rom-com I can’t stop thinking about. It put me in the perfect mood for the season.

Every June, I read the new Annabel Monaghan book. As Jenny Bayliss is the Queen of the Christmas rom-com, Annabel Monaghan is the Queen of the summer rom-com.

Summer is just not the same when you’re an adult - you still have work and responsibilities and maybe children. You no longer have eight weeks ahead of you with no plans other than beach days and summer camp. I’ve found that reading the new Annabel Monaghan book at the start of the season gives me a bit of that summer feeling again. Her books feel like a vacation with all of your aunts, uncles, and cousins running around. Like summer days that stretch ahead of you with long bike rides and sticky hands from ice cream cones. Like salty beach air and the contented tiredness from a day in the sun.

All that to say- it’s one of my favorite summer traditions, and might I invite you to join me? I finished It’s a Love Story a few weeks ago and can confidently say everything Annabel writes is a delight!

It’s a Love Story follows Jane, a woman in her 30s who is an expert at faking it till you make it. She works very hard to make sure she is saying what the people around her want to hear. Jane is a creative executive at a Hollywood studio and is desperately trying to get her first script greenlit and made into a movie. Desperate enough that when it seems like the script is going to fall through, she lies to her boss and tells him that she can get the famous singer Jack Quinlan to write a song for the movie. Exactly what the quiet romance film needs to make it a bit more Hollywood.

The problem is that Jane knew Jack when she was a teenager and has not spoken to him in years. Which is how she finds herself flying across the country with a man she despises: Dan, a cinematographer who got Jane’s last project shut down.

Together, they spend a week in Dan’s hometown in New York, where Jack is set to perform at a music festival. Jane finds herself ushered into the chaos of Dan’s family, with his many brothers and their wives and children. As the week goes on, Jane realizes that Dan is not at all who she thought he was.

I have a few things I look for in a rom-com: good banter, depth in the characters' personal lives outside of the romance, and fun side characters. Annabel Monaghan does all of this well, but especially writing the best side characters. In each of her books, I feel welcomed into a whole cast of family and friends. Dan Finnegan’s family might be my favorite she’s written yet. They’re funny and full of life, and felt so real. I wanted to sit at breakfast with Dan’s parents and have them speak wisdom over my own life.

There is such a strong sense of place in this book. Annabel’s writing makes you feel like you’ve jumped into a summer day on the East Coast. While I love my PNW summers with lakes and being surrounded by trees- it made me happy to be transported to the East Coast for a bit.

If you’re going to read one rom-com this summer, I truly think it should be this one. It’s smart and the setting pulls you right in, making you feel like you’re sitting on the beach right next to Dan and Jane. I just loved it- and honestly, it’s put me in a bit of a slump. Other rom-coms are just not hitting the same way.

Have you read this? Is it on your TBR? What’s a rom-com you’re going to pick up this summer?

Megan

Today I am sharing about what I read in February and because this is a wrap-up post, I have audio for you! Each month I’ll share a wrap-up of everything I read that month over audio- think of it as you and I sitting down to talk about books over a cup of tea.

I hope that you listen to the audio, but also have a brief description of everything I read below!

February was a good month for us- probably my favorite month since Reyna was born. She turned three months old in February and I feel like we all collectively were able to take a deep breath. She’s getting a bit more used to being here in the world and Luke and I are getting used to being parents. February felt more fun and lighthearted, which felt like a huge gift.

My parents visited and we got snow which felt really magical. This February felt like a quiet month full of soaking up everyday moments. Again, a gift.

Emily Wilde’s Encyclopaedia of Faeries by Heather Fawcett: a cozy fantasy novel that’s perfect for winter. It took me a little bit to get into this one, but then I fell in love with the characters and world.

Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros: Everyone already knows about Fourth Wing- I ended up having a lot of fun reading this book throughout the month. It felt like a good follow-up to Iron Flame and I enjoyed being back in Fourth Wing universe.

Back After This by Linda Holmes: a rom-com about a woman who works in audio and ends up having a meet cute with a man while they work to rescue a lost dog. Witty, with relatable characters- I love Linda Holmes writing!

The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon: a historical mystery about a midwife in 1789 named Martha Ballard. I wasn’t sure this story would be for me- but I loved learning about Martha’s life. Lots of trigger warnings- feel free to send me a message!

What did you read in February? Let me know below! I hope you enjoy the audio, it has been such a joy for me to record.

Megan