The Giving Spirit

Christmas Cookies

Gifts… what to get, who wants what, does anybody in my life really need more stuff?! These are the questions I ask myself every November as I start to prepare for Christmas.

I’ve always loved giving gifts, finding that perfect something for that perfect someone, but for the last few years I’ve found myself becoming increasingly flustered and stressed with gift giving. I’m not sure if it’s that I’ve simply run out of ideas for cool stuff to buy or if everyone in my life has run out of room for all that cool stuff. Either way, I’ve decided to change my gift giving tune.Continue Reading

Living Life To The Fullest

I have a ranch up in Utah that is my little piece of heaven. We have 20 acres of perfect pasture land that is home to our nine horses, two donkeys, two goats, two mini horses, one pig, 5 cats and ten chickens.

When the dream to build the ranch began percolating, my mother (who is also my producing partner, business partner and best friend) and I talked endlessly about all our hopes for the land and what kind of ranch and lifestyle we wanted to create. We built a greenhouse and an organic garden, learned the art of bee keeping and read up on caring for chickens. Badlands Ranch (named after one of my favorite Bruce Springsteen songs that seemed inappropriately appropriate) is quite literally a dream come true.

But the truth is, you don’t need a ranch, farm, or even much land at all, to live life to the fullest. All you need is a little imagination, some inspiration and a desire to make the most out of as many moments as possible. I’ve found that the best way to be in the moment, instead of overwhelmed by it, is to have as many tips, tricks and hacks up your sleeve as possible! Here are just a few of my favorite time savers!Continue Reading

Apples, Apples, Apples!

Apples, Apples, Apples!

I decided to do an apple themed dinner last night to bid a fond farewell to Fall! Winter is sneaking in under the door frames and soon it will be all stews, soups and chilies to ward off the chill! But tonight it’s all about those apples!

My favorite to eat and cook with are Gala, but really it’s all about your preference and there are as many apple varieties as there are palates to enjoy them! So do a little taste test and pick your favorite – just be sure that whichever variety you choose will cook well. Some apples really are just for eating as is!Continue Reading